How to Be Rid of Dark Circles

Dark circles have always been my enemy. If I didn't put on concealer to cover up my bags I would constantly hear, "Are you okay?" or "Are you sick?"

No, I'm not sick, Bethany, I just feel like I haven't slept in ten years.

So, why do we get dark circles under our eyes anyway?

We know it's because we're tired, but here's the science behind it:

Sleep deprivation causes an increase in cortisol, which is the hormone responsible for stress-response. An increase in cortisol will cause in increase your blood flow. This blood pressure will cause your blood vessels to expand, which will be visible in your face, specifically your eyes. Thus, the creation of the dreaded dark circles.

What causes dark circles?

Here are some causes of dark, puffy eyes other than sleep deprivation that you can avoid:

Sleep deprivation isn't the only cause of dark, puffy eyes. This could also be caused by

Allergies

Excessive eye rubbing

Exhaustion

Sun exposure

Here are some ways you can remove dark circles:

1. Cold Tea Bags

Tea bags contain caffeine, which aids blood circulation. This will help regulate the blood flow of dark circles. They also contain antioxidations that can help lessen water retention and reduce the appearance of puffy eyes.

How do I use this?

Place two tea bags in to boiling water to steep for 3-5 minutes. Remove the tea bags and place them into the refrigerator for 15-20 minutes. While you wait, you can enjoy the tea you just made from the boiling water. Take out the tea bags and place them on to your eyelids for 15-20 minutes. Rinse off with cold water when finished.

2. Chilled Spoons

Cold spoons are an easy fix that will reduce puffiness quickly. Cold compresses are usually what is used, but most people won't have eye masks lying around. Therefore, spoons are just as helpful. The cold temperature will help regulate puffiness because it will reduce the swelling of blood vessels.

How do I use this?

Make sure that your two spoons are clean. Dip them into water and place them into the freezer to sit for 10-15 minutes until cold. Place the spoons over your eyelids for 5-10 minutes, then place your spoons in your sink. Then you're done! No rinsing required.

3. Coconut Oil

Coconut oil can be very helpful to the skin. It helps lighten the skin as well as hydrate and reduce wrinkles.

How do I use this?

Before bed, place a small amount coconut oil beneath your eyes (Try to avoid getting it into your eyes, of course. Don't be alarmed if you do, though.) and massage gently. Leave on overnight and rinse off in the morning.

Extra tip: For thicker and softer lashes and brows, dip a cotton swab or clean spoolie brush into coconut oil and run it through your lashes and eyebrows before bed. Leave overnight and rinse in the morning.

4. Tomatoes and Lemon Juice

Tomatoes are amazing for you, being rich in vitamins that are good for the body and skin. Tomatoes contain vitamins B, vitamin A, and vitamin C, as well as sulfur, phosphorus, and calcium. Tomatoes also have natural whitening properties that can lighten the skin and teeth, which will aid in reducing the discoloration beneath your eyes.

How do I use this?

For the best results, repeat this process two times a day. Use a 1:1 ratio of lemon juice and tomato juice (the recommended measurement would be a tablespoon). Dip cotton balls or pads into mixture and place around the eye area--AVOID getting this into your eye as best as possible as it does contain lemon juice. Let cotton sit for ten minutes then remove and rinse with cool water.

5. Tumeric and Pineapple Juice

Tumeric is a popular ingredient used in skin care like face masks, as it has many helpful properties. Tumeric is a natural anti-inflammatory and antioxidant. This will aid the discoloration in the skin and help with dark circles.

How do I use this?

For best results, use this method once a day. Mix some tumeric powder with pineapple juice--there are no true measurements to this--until it becomes a thick paste. Apply this paste beneath your eyes and let it sit for 10 minutes.Then, taking a gentle cloth (I suggest microfiber), dampen it with warm water. Take your damp cloth and wipe off the paste. Rinse off any excess with warm water.

6. Cucumber

Cucumber is a commonly known remedy. When you think of a spa day, you usually think of people putting cucumbers over their eyes like they do in TV shows. Well, they do this for a reason.

Why is it good for you?

Cucumbers have skin-lightening and astrigent properties, as well as aid in anti-inflammation. This can help reduce the physical appearance of dark circles as well as help puffiness disappear.

How do I use this?

You can use this method twice a day for best results. Prepare your cucumbers by washing them thoroughly then cutting them into half-inch slices. Place your cucumber slices into your refridgerator for 30 minutes to become cool. Then, place the cucumbers over your eyelids for 10-15 minutes. Once finished, rinse your face with cold water.

Overview and General Tips

These methods will help reduce your dark circles for a healthier face, making you look more awake and ready for the day. However, it is generally the best idea to try to get at least 8 hours of uninterrupted sleep each night. It is also important to stay hydrated and drink enough water to keep you energized.