- There can be several different causes of dark circles. For starters, the skin is thinnest around the eyes. There, the natural layer of fatty tissue is missing, which makes the blood vessels shine through more. Poor blood circulation can also have an effect, as oxygen-poor blood is darker than oxygenated blood, and can therefore cause us to become dark around the eyes," says Marie Oddsson, authorized skin therapist. The skin loses its collagen, which causes the skin under the eyes to sag and makes the blood vessels more prominent. Other factors can include lack of sleep, allergies, smoking and poor or no skin care.
- Sun exposure can also cause dark circles. This is because the skin produces melanin, the pigment that gives the skin its color, when we are in the sun, Marie continues.
If you have very dry skin, as is often the case in winter, this can also contribute to dark circles.
1. sleep
Prioritize sleep. Make sure you have the best sleeping conditions: a comfortable bed and pillow, a dark and cool bedroom and no cell phone, computer or tablet nearby.
2. antioxidants
Eat fruits and vegetables that contain lots of vitamins, minerals and antioxidants. Good sources are: oranges, broccoli and red peppers. Supplement with collagen supplements if needed.
3. specific eye cream
Invest in a cream specifically designed for the skin around the eyes. Eye creams with caffeine combined with vitamin C can do wonders for dark circles. Look for a cream with collagen stimulants such as vitamins A and C and lipoic acid, which boost cell renewal and can firm the skin.
4. Drink water
Otherwise, blood circulates more slowly and becomes darker in color. Dry skin is a common cause of dark circles under the eyes.
5. exercise
Exercise regularly. Exercise increases blood circulation and strengthens your whole body. Even your under-eye skin.
6. protect your eyes
Protect your eyes and the skin around them with sunglasses and SPF. You'll avoid dark circles under your eyes and prevent premature ageing.
7. smoking
When you put down the cigarettes, your skin recovers quite quickly and your circulation gets going. In addition, there are a number of other health benefits to quitting for good.
8. remove makeup before going to bed
When you sleep with makeup on, you expose your skin to free radicals. This has the potential to create what is known as oxidative stress which can contribute to premature ageing. It also dries out your skin. Use a gentle, mild and effective facial cleanser for your skin when washing off your makeup.