More prevalent with age, dark under-eye circles are something to be expected from most people. Now whether you choose to cover them up with make up or treat them at the root cause, understanding why they occur and what your options are is the first step.
What Causes Dark Under-Eye Circles?
Dark under-eye circles are, more often than not, hereditary. They are the appearance of superficial capillaries that appear to have a blue-ish tinge to them because the skin under your eyes in much thinner than the rest of your skin. However, sometimes these broken capillaries are caused by the friction from swollen or rubbed eyes due to an allergy. If this is the case, treat the allergy and the byproduct, the dark under-eye circles, will go by the wayside.
Sleep
Before you do anything else, focus on getting a solid 8 hours of sleep every night. The more sleep you get, the more hydrated your skin is, which helps reduce the appearance of the dark under-eye circles.
Hydrate
You should be drinking at least eight 8-oz. glasses of water every day to maintain proper hydration levels. When your body is hydrated, it shows in your skin, helping to maintain healthy skin function and keep collagen, your skin's natural plumper, alive and well. When you are dehydrated, your skin can not combat blemishes and imperfections as well and the appearance of dark circles will seem more severe.
Vitamin K
Vitamin K, a fat soluble vitamin, has blood-clotting properties in it that can help to clot and remove any stray broken capillaries under your eyes. Look for creams with a high vitamin K concentration, between 5 and 8 percent, to get the most bang for your buck.
Vitamin C
Vitamin C, found in creams, lotions and good old fashion fruit, helps to fight against free radicals in your body that destroy collagen. You need that collagen to keep your skin, particularly the already thin skin under your eyes, fuller and plumper, thereby reducing the look of dark under-eye circles without the need for cosmetics.
Eye Therapy
There's a reason you get those cucumber slices placed over your eyes at the spa --- they reduce the puffiness in your eye region. Try using a tea bag instead, whose tannins reduce swelling and discoloration around the eyes.
Considerations
Yet another reason to put down those cigarettes: Smoking causes the blood vessels to appear more prominent under your skin, making dark under-eye circles appear darker. Consult your physician before embarking on any new medicine supplement routine. Report any side effects to your doctor and discontinue use if any skin irritation occurs.
Tags: your skin, under-eye circles, dark under-eye, under your, your eyes, dark under-eye circles