Easy Remedies to Erase Dark Circles

Dark circles or “Periorbital Hyperchromia” as it is medically called is caused due to the thin layer of skin below the eyes showing the blood vessels and the blood they contain more clearly than anywhere else on the body.

 Prominent dark circles are caused due to the other reasons like, inadequate rest and sleep. Aging causes volume loss of fat which increases the prominence of dark circles. Genetics has a role to play and many times the problem of dark circles is present in a particular family. People with allergies may rub their eyes due to itchiness, leading to the formation of dark circles.  Sunlight can prompt the production of melanin, darkening the area around the eye.  The consumption of alcohol allows the small blood vessels in the skin to dilate, or expand, so dark circles under the eyes may become more prominent.  Smoking and Iron deficiency anaemia can cause prominent dark circles. Dr. Mohan Thomas, Senior Cosmetic Surgeon, Cosmetic Surgery Institute, Mumbai discusses easy remedies to eradicate dark circles.

Healthy Lifestyle practices to prevent dark circles :

Start using a moisturizing eye cream very early in life regularly that contains vitamin C, retinoids, hyaluronic acid, and Co Q10 coenzyme. These ingredients visibly reduce puffiness and dark circles.

1. It is important to use a sunscreen daily on top of the eye cream and to re-apply every 3-4 hours, to prevent sun damage that is one of the foremost causes of ageing around the eyes.
2. Avoid consuming salty foods and alcohol late at night as it can aggravate existing dark circles.
3. Ensure a minimum of six-eight hours’ sleep, preferably from 11pm to 7am, as it balances your stress hormones and reduces dark circles.
4. Sleep with your head slightly elevated to prevent puffiness when you wake up.

Few easy homemade remedies:

The best quick fix is to apply a cold pack or a chilled tea bag. Use of frozen peas in a bag also helps in reducing the fluid retention as well as fluid outflow.

1. Grate potatoes and apply the grated pulp around eyes for 5-10 minutes. Repeat twice a week for noticeable results.
2. Mix a few drops of rose geranium, lavender and chamomile essential oils with coconut oil. Rub in gently under the eyes regularly to ward off dark circles.
3. Mix a paste of buttermilk and turmeric, apply it around eyes and wash it off after 10 minutes with cold water for quick relief.
4. Cold cut cucumbers in thick slices and place them over the eyes for 30 minutes. Cucumber contains a number of antioxidants like vitexin, orientin, and cucurbitacins, which help treat under eye dark circles
5. Apply a little amount of almond oil on your dark circles and gently massage it into the skin. Leave it on overnight and wash it off the next morning.
6.  Apply the fresh Alovera gel under the eyes and massage for a few seconds. Aloevera soothes the skin and hydrates it. Its nourishing properties reduce the pigmentation under the eye and make the sensitive skin in that area healthier.

Book Appointment:  Dr. Mohan Thomas, Senior Cosmetic Surgeon, Cosmetic Surgery Institute, Mumbai