Many individuals commonly experience under-eye dark circles. When it occurs, we feel self-conscious. But don’t worry, you are not the only one who is faced with this problem. Many well-known individuals in the world have encountered this problem at some point in their lives and have had to resort to make-up and concealers to hide these dark circles.
Since the skin around the eyes is sensitive, it’s best to opt for natural remedies for the dark circles rather than using chemical-based products. So, here’s a list of simple and easily doable home remedies for dark circles that may help revitalise your under-eye skin.
Before we learn how to manage dark circles, let’s understand why they occur. The causes of dark circles include1:
Dark circles may also be caused by fat reduction around the eyes, touching or rubbing the eyes often, smoking, hangover, sudden and extreme weight loss, and darker skin.
Dark circles are a common beauty concern. Dark circles are of different types and each type is linked to specific causes.
Knowing the exact kind of dark circles you have is important for using the right solutions. Customised treatments, like using special creams or changing daily habits, may help to reduce and improve dark circles based on their cause.
One of the most commonly used and easy ways to reduce dark under-eye circles is to use cold tea bags. Green tea or chamomile tea bags are recommended for faster relief. It is thought that the residual caffeine in tea bags helps to constrict blood vessels, which reduces blood flow to that area, helping to provide some relief from dark circles2.
How to Use Cold Tea Bags?
Let the tea bags soak in water, cool them in the fridge, and then rest them over your eyes for about 10 to 15 minutes. Repeat regularly.
This is, by far, one of the most commonly used home remedies for dark circles. Grated potatoes and cucumbers also aid in reducing the puffiness around the eyes. The vitamins and antioxidants in these cooling veggies and their anti-inflammatory nature helps to reduce inflammation around the eyes while also helping to stave off darkening2.
How to Use Grated Potatoes and Cucumbers?
Cold milk is a natural cleanser for the eyes and is known to help remove dark circles under the eyes while soothing the sensitive under-eye skin. The lactic acid in cold milk may reduce swelling and brighten the skin tone. Additionally, potassium in milk allows the skin to stay better moisturised, leaving you with soft and supple skin3.
How to Use Cold Milk?
The way we sleep also affects the area surrounding our eyes. You may be able to prevent fluid buildup under the eyes that can cause puffiness and swelling by elevating your head with a few extra pillows. This simple change can help improve dark circles and may lead to overall improvement in the appearance of the area surrounding the eyes4.
Moisturised skin is less likely to sag and will stay healthy longer. Aloe Vera, which is an effective moisturiser, may help reduce dark circles, nourish the skin, and prevent premature ageing5.
How to Use Aloe Vera?
A popular remedy involves blending almond oil with lemon juice. The vitamin E and antioxidants in almond oil may help address dark circles. Lemon juice’s active component is ascorbic acid and other nutrients. This remedy may also aid in decreasing water retention that causes puffiness around the eyes. It also has a mild skin lightening effect; however, when used undiluted, it can have the opposite effect and cause damage to the skin, so always use caution6.
How to Use Almond Oil & Lemon Juice?
This one can surely be termed as a traditional secret dark circles home remedy! Rosewater is refreshing, rejuvenating and may be used on almost all skin types and for all skin-related issues. It’s a mild astringent and can be used as an effective skin toner too7.
How to Use Rosewater?
Tomatoes naturally help lighten the skin. They also contain antioxidants that help to lighten the discolouration around the eyes6.
How to Use Tomatoes for Dark Circles?
Stress, low mood, and irregular routines are often linked to the appearance of dark circles. Thus, one of the most prudent ways to deal with dark circles is to stay calm and composed. But as stress is an integral part of our life, this is not always possible. Hence, it is beneficial to make Yoga and Meditation an everyday ritual!
Yoga not only calms the mind but also helps to regulate the body clock and, most importantly, it addresses most body problems from the core8.
Arguably, one of the most important factors to consider when you’re trying to get rid of under-eye dark circles permanently at home is getting enough sleep on a regular basis. Regular sleep ensures that your body (and thus, your skin) has enough time to rest, repair and regenerate. This improves the appearance of your skin as well as your overall health. One of the first things that reveal our internal health is poor skin condition. Proper sleep on a regular basis can be your biggest weapon against preventing and reducing dark circles in the long term9.
In my opinion, to avoid fluid accumulating below the eyes at night, elevate the head with an additional pillow. This might work as an easy remedy for dark circles by constricting the dilated blood vessels and reducing the darkness around the eye. It may also aid in reducing the puffiness around the eyes.
Dr. Siddharth Gupta, B.A.M.S, M.D (Ayu)
Apart from the above natural treatments for dark circles under the eyes, there are a number of other home remedies. Here is a quick list of some great alternative options10:
Studies have found that cool spoons placed over your eyes can assist in constricting the dilated blood vessels that result in darkness around the eyes. This may lessen the look of dark circles.
Dr. Rajeev Singh, BAMS
Also Read: Natural Home Remedies For Dark Neck
Dark circles are quite common, and they don’t have to be the end of the world. The best way to keep them in control is naturally. Follow these simple guidelines and you should be able to manage your dark circles very well.
Read More: 16 Home Remedies for Glowing Skin
Dark circles can be attributed to various factors such as genetics, lack of sleep, dehydration, allergies, stress, smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, and ageing. This is often worsened by thin skin and prominent blood vessels around the eyes.
Aloe vera is a tropical plant that is often used as a natural remedy for dark circles. While more human studies are required, aloe vera is believed to hydrate the skin, soothe inflammation, and possibly reduce the appearance of dark circles.
Applying a cold compress may ease swelling and reduce the size of enlarged blood vessels under the eyes. Applying a cold compress can also help reduce the puffiness that causes dark circles. All you need to do is wrap ice cubes in a clean cloth and rub them gently around the eyes.
Dark circles may result from genetic, lifestyle, or age-related causes, and are often not permanent. While some may fade with improved sleep and skincare, others may require targeted treatments for a more lasting solution.
Yes, dark circles can be genetic, with hereditary factors influencing the thinness of the skin and the tendency to develop pigmentation around the eyes. While genetics do play a role in developing dark circles, lifestyle changes and skincare can still help manage and reduce their appearance.
While dark circles may not be completely resolved, various treatments and lifestyle changes, such as proper sleep, hydration, and skincare, can significantly reduce their appearance. Targeted interventions, like topical creams and medical procedures, can also provide effective solutions for managing and minimising dark circles.
It’s entirely normal for many people to experience dark circles from time to time. Factors like genetics, ageing, lack of sleep, and allergies can contribute to their appearance.
Dark circles can be related to liver issues. Liver dysfunction may lead to the accumulation of toxins in the body, affecting blood circulation and causing dark circles under the eyes. However, various factors contribute to dark circles, and consultation with a healthcare professional is advisable for a comprehensive assessment.
Yes, retinol may be effective for dark circles as it promotes collagen production and improves skin texture. Its exfoliating properties may help reduce pigmentation, but consistent use and patience are key for noticeable results.
While some people claim that castor oil can reduce dark circles due to its moisturising properties, scientific evidence supporting its effectiveness is limited. Individual responses may vary, and it’s advisable to consult with a dermatologist for personalised advice on addressing dark circles.
The caffeine in coffee has vasoconstrictive properties that may temporarily reduce puffiness and improve the appearance of dark circles. However, its effects are often short-term, and long-term solutions may require a combination of lifestyle changes and skincare practices.
While some people find coconut oil moisturising, scientific evidence on its efficacy for dark circles is limited. Individual responses vary, so it’s advisable to explore a range of skincare options and consult with a dermatologist for personalised advice.
Vitamin C may be beneficial for dark circles as it helps brighten the skin and reduce pigmentation. Its antioxidant properties also support collagen production, enhancing skin elasticity and reducing the appearance of dark circles.
Vitamin E’s antioxidant properties can contribute to reducing dark circles by promoting skin hydration and protecting against damage. Adding vitamin E to your skincare regimen may support the health and appearance of the delicate under-eye skin.
Yes, anaemia, characterised by low levels of red blood cells or haemoglobin, may lead to dark circles under the eyes due to reduced oxygen delivery to the tissues. Addressing anaemia through proper medical treatment may help alleviate the appearance of dark circles.
Yes, stress can contribute to the development of dark circles by affecting sleep quality, blood circulation, and skin health. Managing stress through relaxation techniques and self-care may help reduce the appearance of dark circles.
While the complete removal of dark circles may be challenging, natural remedies like proper sleep, hydration, and topical treatments such as cucumber slices or cold tea bags may help reduce the appearance of dark circles. Consistent care and a healthy lifestyle can contribute to a natural improvement in the skin around the eyes.
Laser treatments may be effective in reducing the appearance of dark circles by targeting pigmentation and promoting collagen production. However, results vary, and consultation with a dermatologist is recommended to determine the most suitable approach based on individual needs.
Yes, smoking can contribute to dark circles by constricting blood vessels and reducing oxygen flow to the skin, leading to a tired and dull complexion. Giving up smoking and following a consistent skincare routine may help reduce visible dark circles.
Yes, certain eye creams formulated with ingredients like vitamin C, retinol, and peptides can help reduce the appearance of dark circles by improving skin texture and promoting collagen production. However, individual responses vary, and consistent use over time is often necessary for noticeable results.
To naturally reduce dark circles under the eyes quickly, ensure adequate sleep, stay hydrated, and apply soothing remedies like cold compresses or cucumber slices to reduce puffiness. Additionally, incorporating a balanced diet rich in vitamins, especially vitamin C and K and antioxidants can promote skin health and diminish the appearance of dark circles.
Dark circles may be reversible through lifestyle changes, adequate sleep, and skincare routines. However, genetic factors and certain medical conditions in some individuals may influence the results in some individuals.
Disclaimer: The information provided here is for educational/awareness purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for medical treatment by a healthcare professional and should not be relied upon to diagnose or treat any medical condition. The reader should consult a registered medical practitioner to determine the appropriateness of the information and before consuming any medication. PharmEasy does not provide any guarantee or warranty (express or implied) regarding the accuracy, adequacy, completeness, legality, reliability or usefulness of the information; and disclaims any liability arising thereof.
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