The Best Ways To Banish Under Eye Circles

Article by BR Kellie

“You look tired.”
“Late night last night?”
“Is everything ok?”

They’re words often said quietly, softly, and the owner of the words will no doubt have a concerned look in their eyes. Yep, having dark circles under your eyes is no fun. Sure, sometimes they’re caused by late nights and not enough sleep, but for some of us they’re caused by the shape of our face or eyes, which can cast shadows in the under eye area…and no amount of sleep’s going to fix that. Whether they’re the result of staying up too late, working too hard or good old genetics there are ways to lighten and even get rid of them altogether.

First of all why not hit up the goodness of Mother Nature and see if she can’t sort them out.  Got mint leaves growing rampant in your garden? Pick some (about six to ten leaves will do) then crush them up in a mortar and pestle. Apply to your under eye area for ten to fifteen minutes, then gently wipe off with a cold cloth. Repeat daily for best results.

Cucumber is not only exceptionally cooling but has lightening properties too – and many people swear it works for reducing dark circles. Best of all, no crushing is needed (although you can create a paste if you’d prefer). Simply slice two thin circles, place over your eyes, then lie back and relax for ten minutes, then wash off with cold water.

Another cooling method to help reduce puffiness and dark circles is … a cold flannel. I know! Easy right?! Grab your trusty flannel, soak it in icy water, wring it out and then place over your eyes for fifteen or so minutes. Even better, buy an eye pack and keep it in the fridge.

Next time you’re near a health shop swing by and pick up some Almond Oil. Almond oil is well known as an excellent natural method for reducing dark circles – and it’s so easy to use! Simply massage a couple of drops into your under eye area at night then let it do its work while you catch some zzzz’s.

What about those morning where you’ve tossed and turned all night, finally got to sleep and then woken up late with no time to faff about with natural ways to reduce those dark circles? Well, it’s time to apply some concealer.  Not just any old concealer though, skip anything that’s heavy as it’ll settle into cracks and crevices. Instead, grab a creamy concealer that’s nice and light. If it’s yellow toned and a touch lighter than your skin tone all the better, as it’ll help cancel out the bruised colour while brightening at the same time. Dot the concealer under your eyes then gently pat it in and blend it out using your finger or a blending sponge. Finally, if you’ve some setting powder on hand, dust it over to ensure the concealer stays put for as long as possible.

Of course, sometimes no amount of makeup or natural remedies can sort those circles out, and if that’s the case and they’re really bothering you, you may be able to go down the surgery route. One method used to reduce under eye circles is by having a filler, like Restylane, injected. This can help plump the skin so less shadows are cast in the area. Another option you could consider is blepharoplasty, aka eyelid surgery, which will smooth and tighten sagging and excess eyelid skin, reducing under eye shadows.  Of course if this is an option you’d consider be sure to do your research and see a reputable surgeon.

Are you prone to dark under eye circles? What tips do you have for getting rid of them? We’d love to know!