The Most Effective Solutions for Dark Circles

Dr.Kanu Verma, 3 mins read

It feels nothing less than awkward to wake up with pesky dark circles under the eyes. It downgrades the confidence and makes the face look older, tired and less radiant. Does it sound familiar to you? Don’t fret! You’re not the only one. Here, we have got you covered. So, you can get relief from the dark circles.

What causes dark circles?

Do you know why you frequently have dark circles? There can be many culprits. Thus, it’s important to know what is causing you the problem so you can be more cautious. Some common culprits include:

• Lack of sleep or poor sleeping habits
• Increased screen time
• Allergies
• Smoking
• Thyroid problems
• Dehydration
• Dermatitis or eczema
• Overexposure to sunlight
• Frequent eye rubbing or scratching
• Genetics (Family history)
• Skin changes under the eyes
• Iron deficiency

Top 10 Effective Solutions for Dark Circles

Get enough sleep: Follow a healthy sleeping ritual by establishing a consistent sleep routine. Aim for 7-8 hours of sleep each night. This will help your body to recharge and reduce puffiness.

Stay hydrated: Drink at least 8 glasses of water throughout the day to keep your body hydrated, flush out toxins, and maintain skin elasticity.

Cold compress: Apply cold compress to your eyes for 5-10 minutes, 2-3 times a day. This will help in reducing swelling.

Eye creams and serums: Use prescribed topical creams or serums to get relief from dark circles.

Cucumber slices and teabags: Cucumbers contain anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that will ease your symptoms. So, place chilled cucumber slices under your eyes for 5-10 minutes, 2-3 times a day. Cold tea bags are also helpful in improving circulation because tea contains antioxidants and caffeine.

Eye massage or facial rolling: Gently massage the under-eye area in a circular motion. This will help improve circulation and reduce fluid retention. You can also use a facial roller to enhance skin elasticity.

Dietary changes: Include dark circle-fighting foods in your diet like:

• Leafy greens (spinach, kale)
• Berries (antioxidant-rich)
• Fatty fish (omega-3 fatty acids)
• Nuts and seeds (almonds, sunflower seeds)

Reduce sun exposure: Protecting your overall skin from UV rays is crucial. Use brimmed hats, sunglasses and sunscreen whenever you go out in the daylight.

Use more pillows: Place one extra pillow under your head while sleeping to prevent fluid accumulation under your eyes at night. This approach may help reduce puffiness.

Professional treatments: If the above options don’t help you, your doctor may recommend other options like chemical peels, microdermabrasion, microneedling, PRP, laser therapy, tissue fillers and eyelid surgery.

Additional Tips

• Avoid rubbing your eyes to prevent further discolouration
• Limit screen time and take breaks to reduce eye strain
• Quit smoking and limit alcohol intake
• Adopt ways to manage your daily stress
• Manage allergies through medication or lifestyle changes.

FAQs

Q: How long does it take to see results?

A: Results may vary. However, you may see noticeable improvements within a couple of weeks.

Q: Are dark circles permanent?

A: Though some dark circles are genetic, most cases resolve with lifestyle changes and proper treatment under a certified dermatologist.