While there could be many reasons for dark circles and under-eye bags, the most common is a natural process of life.
Dark circles and bags under the eyes are fairly common and both happen as we age. Dark circles can also be due to fatigue, or few other causes like allergies, hay fever, eczema, contact dermatitis, heredity, pigmentation irregularities, or sun exposure, as per Healthline. Make-up should be able to help with this but there are other ways to be rid of them. One of the best ways to protect the skin under our eyes is by ensuring we apply sunblock before stepping out.
Mayo Clinic writes that the tissues around our eyes, including muscles, become weak as we age. The fat that supports the eyes might move into the lower eyelids, causing the lids to appear puffy. Another reason for bags is when fluid collects in the space below our eyes. The bags under the eyes are rarely a sign of any underlying medical condition, but they might still concern us enough to want to get rid of it.
There are multiple things we could try at home to reduce and eliminate these problems. While it is advisable to see a dermatologist, we can also try these routines. However, these have to be practiced for 4-6 weeks for results to show. Here are six things to do to get rid of dark circles and eye bags:
If you have both dark circles and puffy eyes in the morning, then try sleeping on your back with an extra pillow so that you can keep the fluid from pooling under your eyes during the night. "Keeping your pillow protected from allergens (dust and dust mites) with a protective encasement can also help when allergies are the culprit," said Rebecca Tung, a dermatologist based in Florid, to Allure.
Fatigue and not sleeping enough can lead to dark circles under your eyes, says Healthline. It can also make us paler making the dark circles appear darker. "The cheapest way to reduce the appearance of undereye bags is to get on a regular sleep routine of seven to eight hours per day. And don't drink alcohol a few hours before bedtime," advises Annie Chiu, a dermatologist in North Redondo Beach, California.
Cold compress is a great way to feel fresh since it reduces inflammation and swelling by reducing the blood flow there, as per John Hopkins. You can do it in the morning or evening, or twice a day by placing anything cold, such as an ice pack, frozen bag of vegetables, chilled cucumber slices, or refrigerated spoons over your eyes. Place the cold item over closed eyes for around 10 minutes. You can also use a mask that you keep in the fridge, writes Foreo.
Cold tea bags work in a similar fashion as the cold compress. You can use them if you don't have an ice pack or a mask to apply to your eye. It's ideal to use a green tea bag since you also get the extra benefit from the antioxidants, which also help in reducing inflammation. The cold constricts the dilated blood vessels under the eyes, and that could reduce the dark circles and eye bags.
Either of the two oils can be used to hydrate the skin around the eyes as they have hydrating properties. Vitamin E affects the free radicals that can cause wrinkles. You can apply a drop of oil to your under eyes or entire face by gently massaging it into the skin. Leave it overnight and rinse with warm water the next morning, writes Foreo.
Coconut oil is a natural and gentle anti-inflammatory, and it can work for lightening dark circles. It will also moisturize the area, preventing fine lines and wrinkles. you can leave it in overnight and rinse it in the morning.
Over-the-counter ointments meant for hemorrhoid treatment can be applied under their eyes, as per John Hopkins. These treatments are composed of phenylephrine, which can narrow blood vessels to reduce swelling. However, they must be used with caution as they might cause some irritation too. It's important to ensure the cream doesn't get into your eye.
References:
https://www.healthline.com/health/how-to-get-rid-of-dark-circles-permanently
https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/bags-under-eyes/symptoms-causes/syc-20369927#
https://www.allure.com/story/dermatologists-help-minimize-the-appearance-of-dark-circles
https://www.foreo.com/mysa/27-ways-get-rid-dark-circles-and-bags-under-eyes/
Disclaimer : This article is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.
