Home Remedies for Dark Circles Under the Eyes

Dark circles under the eyes are usually caused by changes in the blood vessels around the eye area. While this discoloration is harmless, having dark circles under the eyes can make you look tired, ill, or older than you actually are.

Many things can cause dark circles under the eyes. They are usually hereditary. But they can also be caused or aggravated by allergies, chronic skin conditions, menstruation, pregnancy, sun exposure, fatigue, and even losing weight. Dark circles under the eyes can also be the result of an illness.

Here are some home remedies that could help you minimize or eliminate dark circles under the eyes.

Use a cold compress to get rid of dark circles under the eyes.

A cold compress might get rid of dark circles under the eyes. Dip a washcloth in cold water, and then ring it out. Hold this cold compress over your closed eyes for about five minutes. This will constrict the blood vessels, and also alleviate any swelling in the area, and minimize the darkness. Repeat the process several times a day as needed.

Use sunscreen to prevent dark circles under the eyes.

Exposure to the sun's rays causes skin to darken. If you use a sunscreen every day, there's a good chance the dark circles under the eyes will begin to fade. And, if you don't already have noticeably dark circles under the eyes now, using sunscreen can keep them from ever appearing.

No matter what your complexion, using a sunscreen that has an SPF of at least 15 will help if you have dark circles under the eyes. You can find sunscreens designed to be used on your face. You can also find sunscreen in many moisturizers, foundations, and lotions, although sunscreen found in foundation often only have an SPF of 8 or less. If you want to make dark circles under the eyes fade, or prevent them from ever appearing in the first place, make sure you're using enough sun protection.

Use alpha hydroxy acid to get rid of circles under the eyes.

Alpha hydroxy acid isn't just good for wrinkles. It can lighten dark circles under the eyes, too. Look for an eye cream that contains alpha hydroxy acid. And read the directions carefully before using.

Using skin creams that contain vitamin C will also help with dark circles under the eyes.

Use a concealer to hide dark circles under the eyes.

In a pinch, you can use concealer to cover up dark circles under the eyes. Be sure to choose a concealer that matches your skin tone, and apply with your ring finger, patting gently so you won't damage the delicate skin under the eyes. After applying concealer, use some kind of face powder to make sure it will stay in place.

By taking a few precautions, and making minor changes to your daily skin care and beauty regimen, you can minimize dark circles under the eyes. Or, better yet, say goodbye to them for good.