How to Eliminate Dark Sunken Circles Under the Eyes
The dark circles under your eyes are simply areas of pigmentation. As you get older, your skin tends to thin and you start to lose collagen and fat. And while these side effects of aging are often associated with fine lines, wrinkles and folds, they can also make the blood vessels under your eyes much more visible.
The dark circles under your eyes are simply areas of pigmentation. As you get older, your skin tends to thin and you start to lose collagen and fat. And while these side effects of aging are often associated with fine lines, wrinkles and folds, they can also make the blood vessels under your eyes much more visible. But age isn't the only factor that can contribute to dark, sunken circles. Sometimes, your sleep cycle and lifestyle choices can play roles in their development.
Step 1
Get enough sleep every night. Sometimes, all that's needed to eliminate under-eye circles is a few extra winks.
Step 2
Use an extra pillow. Elevating the head while you sleep can keep fluids from collecting within your lower eyelids. The puffiness that results can cast shadows under the eyes, creating dark circles.
Step 3
Limit your intake of beer, wine, liquor, coffee, soda and other caffeinated beverages to see if this makes a difference. Alcohol and caffeine consumption can both contribute to dark circles under your eyes.
Step 4
Quit smoking. Much like alcohol and caffeine, smoking tobacco can contribute to the development of dark, sunken circles. Quitting today can help fade dark under-eye circles tomorrow.
Step 5
Start using a cold compress in the morning. Placing a cold compress under the eyes can minimize dilated blood vessels, making them less visible.
Step 6
Make an appointment with an allergist. Allergies can also contribute to dark, sunken circles, so consider having an allergy test to determine if an allergen is the cause.Your doctor can prescribe a medication to treat the allergy and subsequently lessen under-eye circles.
Step 7
Apply an under-eye cream to the dark circles. The New York Times lists alphahydroxy acids, chestnut rose extract and vitamins C and K as ingredients that can minimize dark circles.
Step 8
Minimize dark circles with soft tissue fillers. Although soft tissue fillers, like collagen or hyaluronic acid, are usually reserved to fill in wrinkles or folds, they can cover the blood vessels or melanin contributing to the darkness under your eyes.
Step 9
Talk to your dermatologist or cosmetic surgeon about laser therapy. Laser energy can break up the melanin and rejuvenate the skin under your eyes, helping to fade dark circles.
Tip
Wearing a sunscreen or a moisturizer with a sun protection factor can prevent circles from darkening further.