According to MayoClinic.com, dark circles, or bags, under the eyes can have the same effect as wrinkles or gray hair on your appearance, and may make you look older than you are. In some cases the cause may be genetic. Dark circles may also be caused by allergies or other illnesses. Most of the time, however, they have a benign cause such as fatigue or stress.
Stress and Sleep
Many people associate dark circles under the eyes with fatigue or a lack of sleep. Not getting enough sleep can take a toll on your appearance, and bags under the eyes can be an indication that you need to get more shut-eye. Unfortunately, if you are under stress, you may find it hard to get a good night's sleep. If you are suffering from insomnia or not sleeping well for another reason, it can cause even more stress, creating a vicious cycle. Reducing your stress level and getting more sleep can help alleviate dark circles.
Emotional Stress
Emotional stress may manifest itself in ways other than sleep disturbances, several of which can cause or exacerbate dark circles under the eyes. If you are crying due to your stress, for example, you may experience eye swelling. Stress may also cause you to neglect your health. If you are not eating well and not exercising regularly, you may develop bags under your eyes. Even if you are under emotional stress, it is important to take good care of yourself, both for your health and for your appearance.
Physical Stress
Some physical illnesses can cause dark circles under the eyes. If you have a cold or allergies, your stuffed up nose can cause darkening and swelling. Allergies may also prompt you to rub your eyes, which is not good for the delicate skin underneath, and may cause swelling. Smoking and drinking too much alcohol create stress for your body, and these vices can also cause bagging under the eyes.
What You Can Do
If you think that stress is causing dark eye circles, try meditation, yoga, deep breathing or other relaxation techniques. Take good care of yourself physically by getting enough rest, eating well and sticking to an exercise program. All of these positive changes can in turn reduce your stress level. If eye circles show up suddenly or do not get better after you reduce your stress, ask your doctor for advice. In the meantime, you can cover your eye circles with concealer makeup if desired.
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