The skin under our eyes is thin and delicate to begin with and, depending on genetics, you may even have bluish marks there simply because the tiny veins are close to the surface or your skin is just a little thinner than others.   However, there are also some very common reasons why you may have dark circles and different treatments can be applied.

 

1.        You Didn’t Get Enough Sleep.  This is probably your first guess because when you’re fatigued, you’re bound to get some shadows underneath your eyes.  Unfortunately, the only way to combat this is to get some more sleep.   Believe me, we know that’s easier said than done, but even a 30-minute cat nap can be beneficial.    So, try to get at least 7 hours a night.

2.       You’re Allergic To Something.  It’s allergy season…all year round for some people.  With all kinds of irritants floating around, it’s a wonder we’re not all sneezing all the time.   Pollen, pollution, dust, pesticides…need we go on?  Rub your eyes a little and all of a sudden you have dark circles.  Often called, “allergic shiners,” these dark circles may be seasonal or an all year round occurrence.   If it seems like you always have them, check with an allergist because it might be a sign of a food allergy or something that needs a bit more treatment then over the counter allergy medicine.

3.       Dehydration.  Believe it or not, not drinking enough can give you dark circles.  Of course, not all beverages are built the same.  Water is really the best way to quench your thirsty skin, but caffeine- free tea is also a good way to get some liquids if you’re in the mood for something different. 

4.       Anemia.  Not getting enough iron in your diet can do more than just give you dark circles.  The low red blood cell count means that less oxygen is getting to your body.  You might also feel tired, weak, or dizzy, and, after prolonged anemia, worse symptoms can occur.  Anemia can be treated with over the counter iron pills or by adding foods such as spinach, some whole grains, and liver to your diet. However, you should always check with a doctor first to make sure that other forces aren’t at play.

5.       Age.  If you’re lucky, you’re aging.  Your skin is going to change with time, but that’s no reason not to keep it in the best shape possible.  The time to start is now.  Try getting peels and facials at regular intervals at the spa.  In between that, add an age-targeting under-eye cream to your daily skin care regiment.  Look for Vitamins C or E on the label.

How do you deal with dark circles?  Do you find that any one treatment works or is it a combination?  Please leave us your comments and let us know what you think!

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