Dark circles under the eyes are a common problem for many people. They can be caused by a number of things, from lack of sleep, smoking and alcohol use, or allergies and sinus congestion, just to name a few. Fortunately, there are a few different ways to try to lighten dark circles and reduce puffiness around the eyes, which can make you look younger and more awake. Concealing cream for dark circles is one way to camouflage the problem, but it won't actually lighten dark circles; some beauty stores sell actual lightening cream to try to target the problem directly. At-home remedies, such as applying cucumber slices or vitamin E oil to the eyes, can be effective as well.
Sometimes, dark circles appear because the body is dehydrated or because you aren't getting enough sleep. Drinking alcohol can cause dehydration; this behavior and smoking are some of the leading causes of dark circles, so try to cut back or quit, and drink more water to combat dehydration. Getting six to eight hours of sleep a night may also help to lighten dark circles and reduce puffiness around the eyes; sleep with the head elevated on a pillow for an extra preventive step. In addition, be sure to wear sunscreen every day to prevent causing damage to the sensitive skin around the eyes, which can cause dark circles as well.
To attempt to lighten dark circles, there are a few different things to try. Using a neti pot to clean out the sinuses and reduce congestion can lessen swelling in the face, and reduce the appearance of dark circles. Placing chilled spoons, chilled tea bags, or cucumber slices on the eyes may also be able to help lighten dark circles. Another remedy that can be effective is to break open a vitamin E gel capsule, and apply some of the liquid under the eyes on a daily basis; over time, this should really help to improve the condition of the skin.
Concealing and lightening creams are another way to lighten dark circles. If you choose to use concealer to camouflage it, it should be slightly lighter than your skin and the foundation you use, which helps the eyes to appear brighter. Lightening cream sold in stores can also make a difference if used every day, though it typically just includes ingredients like vitamin E, which can be applied directly anyway, and which is usually much less expensive.
