Dark circles under the eyes can persist despite a good night’s sleep, affecting many people. These circles are often attributed to fatigue, but experts suggest multiple causes and solutions. British expert explores these factors and provides guidance on mitigating this common issue.
Causes of Dark Circles
Contrary to popular belief, fatigue is not the primary cause of dark circles, according to oculoplastic surgeon Dr. Maryam Zamani. Hyperpigmentation, often due to environmental factors like sun exposure or smoking and genetic predisposition, is a significant contributor. People with Asian and African skin types are particularly prone due to the thin skin under their eyes that allows veins to become more visible. Seasonal allergies and nasal congestion can also exacerbate the appearance by causing veins to dilate, while aging leads to volume loss and thinner skin, making dark circles more noticeable.
Dietary Considerations
Improving your diet can impact the appearance of dark circles. Paula Begoun, founder of Paula’s Choice Skincare, suggests focusing on an anti-inflammatory diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean protein, and healthy fats. Specific foods such as tomatoes, blueberries, and watermelon may help, while reducing red wine and caffeine intake is advised. Staying hydrated is also crucial, as dehydration can worsen dark circles.
Effective Treatments
Sleep: Adequate sleep can diminish the appearance of dark circles. Dr. Zamani recommends seven to nine hours per night and suggests sleeping with your head elevated to reduce puffiness.
Health: Smoking and other health issues like high cholesterol can worsen dark circles. Quitting smoking and addressing any health concerns through diet and exercise can make a difference.
Sunscreen: Daily sunscreen use is essential to prevent hyperpigmentation. Dr. Zamani advises applying a broad-spectrum sunscreen up to the lash line and using sunglasses to protect the area.
Cold Treatments: Using cold tools like ice globes can help reduce puffiness and lighten dark circles by constricting blood vessels.
Skincare Products: Look for products with caffeine, hyaluronic acid, or vitamin C. These ingredients can help brighten the area and improve skin texture.
Make-up: For immediate results, color-correcting concealers can neutralize dark circles. A light application of highlighter can also help reflect light away from the under-eye area.
Advanced Treatments
Chemical Peels: Light chemical peels can address pigmentation issues but should be done cautiously near the eyes.
Laser Treatments: Lasers targeting pigment can be effective but require professional administration due to the sensitivity of the eye area.
Microneedling: This procedure stimulates collagen production and can be combined with chemical peels for enhanced results.
Tear Trough Fillers: For significant volume loss, hyaluronic acid fillers can improve the appearance of dark circles by plumping the under-eye area.
Recommended Products
1.Sarah Chapman Skinesis Eye Insurance SPF30 Serum
2.Augustinus Bader The Eye Cream
3.Refy Concealer
4.Nars Cosmetics Radiant Creamy Concealer
5.VICHY LiftActiv DermSource Eyes
6.Milk Makeup Flex Concealer
7.Elemis Peptide Eye Recovery Cream
8.The INKEY List Brighten-I Eye Cream
9.Murad Vit-C Eyes Dark Circle Corrector
10.111Skin Space Defence Bright Eye Lift Gel NAC Y2
11.La Mer The Eye Concentrate
12.Kate Somerville Wrinkle Warrior Eye Gel Visible Dark Circle Eraser
13.Charlotte Tilbury Magic Vanish
14.Shiseido Exclusive Ultimune Eye Power Infusing Eye Concentrate
These insights and strategies can help address and potentially reduce the visibility of dark circles, providing both immediate and long-term solutions.
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