They're the tell-tale signs of lack of sleep (or one too many drinks): those hazy, purplish clouds underneath your eyes. Where do they come from? How can you prevent them? Keep reading to find out.
How do they happen?
Dark circles are most commonly a result of not getting enough sleep. Whether you’re a new mom or a busy college student, if you’re noticing tired, dark looking eyes, chances are you haven’t had a solid eight hours in a while If you're noticing discoloration that coincides with allergy season, don't worry, you're not going crazy. Allergies are another common cause, because you can itchy skin that causes you to rub around the area, which can lead to dark circles. Blood vessels that dilate or become close to the skin surface can also give off the appearance of discoloration, giving off a blueish or reddish undertone. Dehydration can also enhance the appearance of dark circles, especially when it's the result of alcohol or salty food. So, pro tip: drinking water alone can make a big difference for the eyes. Genetics can also be a key contributor, and if your family tends to get chronic dark circles, there's a good chance you have them as well. Unfortunately, genetic dark circles aren't exactly avoidable, but there are some things you can do to make them less prominent.
How to Treat Them
To take action against dark circles, we suggest beginning by strengthening the skin around the eyes. Eye creams that have ingredients like niacinamide, peptides, caffeine and retinol are all amazing for the delicate eye area, but if over-the-counter treatments still aren't getting the job done, consider visiting a dermatologist who can provide a topical prescription treatment or administer in-office treatments like eye peels, lasers or fillers. Another product not to leave out of your eye-care routine? Sunscreen. UV rays can make dark circles appear more pigmented so make sure you’re applying (and repplying!) on a regular basis. But most importantly, all of this comes back to our inner beauty = outer beauty mantra. Treat your body with the love and care you deserve and trust us, your radiance will shine.