How to Reduce Dark Circles Under Your Eyes

Dark circles under the eyes can be caused by different factors. The most common cause is lack of sleep, which makes the skin appear paler, emphasising the blood vessels under the eyes that are near to the surface. As we age our skin thins causing the same effect. This effect will be exaggerated by genetic factors or if we naturally have deep set eyes. Fluid retention causes dark circles by dilating the blood vessels under the skin in this area, and dehydration can also cause them. People suffering from iron deficiency anaemia will often get dark rings under the eyes.

During the allergy season people may rub their eyes, irritating them, which can cause dark circles. Nasal congestion can cause puffiness and darkness under the eyes by reducing the natural drainage of the area.Many of the causes of dark circles can be addressed through diet and lifestyle changes, or by vitamin supplementation.

SLEEP

Make sure you get enough sleep. The amount needed varies from person to person, but if you don't get enough it will show up first in your eyes and the area around them.

HYDRATION

Drink plenty of water. This will prevent the dehydration that can cause dark circles, but also has many other health benefits. Water is one of the best beauty treatments for your skin. Substituting other fluids for water will not always work, caffeinated beverages and alcohol are diuretics and will worsen the problem. Green tea or water flavoured with fruit juice, such as lemon, are beneficial as they provide antioxidants and vitamin C respectively. In Chinese medicine dark circles under the eyes can be seen as a sign of kidney imbalance, a problem that may be helped by drinking more water.

FLUID RETENTION

Cutting back on salt and drinking plenty of water to flush the system help with fluid retention. Lying down for five minutes with cold tea bags, cucumber or potato slices over eyes can reduce the puffiness associated with fluid retention in the eye area.

IRON