Dark circles are marks that form around the eyes, in regions where the skin tissue is fragile and translucent. They can appear as bags, with dark or purplish color, or even with sagging or furrows around the eyes. The result is a more tired, aged, and haggard appearance.
They make the skin look darker as we can see the blood vessels there. The region is dilated and tends to swell, this happens because of the exit of red blood cells from the interior of the vessels to the dermis. These globules create deposits of ferric pigments that make the region darker.
Why do we have dark circles?
There are several causes for the appearance of dark circles. There are those who have a lot and those who have almost nothing. The effect will worsen if you have your genetics and sustain bad lifestyle habits, which accentuates the problem. Here are some other reasons why you have dark circles:
- Heredity
- High concentration of melanin
- Physical fatigue and sleepless nights
- Fragile and thin skin
- Circulatory Problems
- Excessive consumption of salt and alcoholic beverages
- Physical or emotional stress
- Cigarette abuse
- Allergies and rhinitis
Home treatments for dark circles
First, drink plenty of water, boost your fruit and vegetable consumption, avoid excess salt and alcoholic beverages. Another thing that helps prevent dark circles is to sleep at least eight hours a day. In addition to these measures, there are treatment recipes that help to alleviate dark circles:
Ice water
It is very beneficial for the face, as it stimulates the contraction of blood vessels and reduces the puffiness of dark circles. In addition to always using cold water to wash your face, you can prepare a bowl of water with a few ice cubes and soak your face for a few seconds every night.
Another option is to wrap an ice cube in a thin fabric, rest for a few moments in the eyes, or pass in a circular motion. This helps to reduce swelling and improve blood circulation in the area.
Coconut oil
Dip your fingers in coconut oil and gently massage the area around the dark circles. Be careful not to get into the eyes as it can cause irritation. Let the product act in place for 15 minutes. Afterwards, rinse with plenty of water.
Green tea or chamomile tea
Both are effective for dark circles under the eyes, caused by vessel dilation. Iced tea soothes the region and constricts the vessels. Prepare two tea bags and leave them for a few hours in the fridge, then apply the bags well wet in the eye area and let it act for 20 minutes. This technique is also great for dark circles caused by crying or rhinitis.
Cucumber mask
It is the most popular method to combat dark marks under the eyes. Cucumber is a diuretic, acts on cell regeneration and reduces swelling. Apply a cold, medium-thick slice over each eye and let it sit for 30 minutes. Then wash your face thoroughly with cold water. The same can be done with slices of raw white potato.
Dermatological treatments for dark circles
Dermatologists indicate many treatment options to remove dark circles. There are cases in which even surgery is indicated to remove the bags from the region once and for all. But this is the most drastic alternative for dealing with the problem. See other less invasive and widely used options today.
Laser
The treatment, carried out by dermatologists, consists of the application of a pulsed light laser to clear the dermis and reduce blood vessels. The action also stimulates collagen production, which will give elasticity and reduce sagging in the region.
Peeling
It is an application of acids, indicated by a dermatologist, which is done through a gradual exfoliation in the region, acting on skin scaling. Peeling ends up reducing the dark pigmentation in the area. The ideal is to carry out this type of treatment in winter months, when your skin will not be exposed to the sun, and protect the area with lots of sunscreen.
Creams
Compounds with bioflavonoids, vitamin C, and retinol, these creams act on the bloodstream, increasing venous tone and decreasing skin dilation. Vitamins C and E have an antioxidant and decongestant function, acting as lighteners. Both are great options to be combined with other types of treatments.
