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DARK CIRCLES UNDER EYES: CAUSES, TREATMENTS AND MORE

Numerous women find the presence of dark circles beneath their eyes undesirable, impacting both their appearance and confidence. Beyond cosmetic concerns, these circles can sometimes signal underlying health issues. Identifying the root cause is crucial, as various factors contribute to their appearance. While some individuals have discovered methods to address them, achieving complete elimination remains a challenge. This article aims to provide comprehensive information on the causes and potential solutions for dark circles, guiding readers towards a better understanding and effective management of this common issue. Keep reading to gain valuable insights.

WHAT ARE DARK CIRCLES UNDER EYES

When you have dark circles under your eyes, it means the skin beneath your eyes looks darker. It can be blue, purple, brown, or black, depending on your skin color. Dark circles might make you seem tired or older.

There are different reasons why you might have dark circles, but they usually aren’t a sign of a health issue. In most cases, dark circles aren’t something to worry about, but some people want to lessen them to look better.

WHAT CAUSE DARK CIRCLES UNDER EYES

There are many causes of dark circles under eyes, ranging from genetics to lifestyle choices. 

GENETIC FACTORS

One common reason is heredity, as some people may inherit a tendency to develop dark circles from their family. Additionally, aging can contribute to the thinning of the skin under the eyes, making blood vessels more visible and resulting in a darker appearance.

LACK OF SLEEP

Lack of sleep is another well-known factor associated with dark circles. When individuals don’t get enough rest, their skin becomes paler, which allows blood vessels beneath the skin to become more noticeable, leading to the appearance of dark circles. Poor sleep quality and irregular sleep patterns can exacerbate this issue.

ALLERGIES

Allergies can also contribute to the development of dark circles. Allergic reactions can cause inflammation and swelling around the eyes, making the blood vessels more prominent. Common allergens include pollen, dust, and certain foods.

LIFESTYLE FACTORS

Lifestyle choices such as excessive sun exposure and smoking can contribute to the darkening of the skin under the eyes. Sun exposure can increase melanin production, resulting in hyperpigmentation, while smoking can accelerate the aging process, leading to the thinning of the skin.

DEHYDRATION

Dehydration is yet another factor that can contribute to the formation of dark circles. When the body is not adequately hydrated, the skin under the eyes can appear dull and sunken, emphasizing the dark circles.

UNDERLYING MEDICAL CONDITION

In some cases, an underlying medical condition may be the cause of dark circles. Conditions like anemia, thyroid disorders, or certain skin conditions can affect skin pigmentation and contribute to the appearance of dark circles.

HOW TO GET RID OF DARK CIRCLES UNDER EYES AT HOME

If you’re wondering how to remove dark circles under eyes, this is exactly the answer. There are many different home remedies you can try to get rid of dark circles under your eyes. They may include:

COLD COMPRESS

Applying a cold compress can help reduce puffiness and constrict blood vessels, making dark circles less noticeable. You can use a cold spoon, a chilled cucumber slice, or a clean cloth soaked in cold water.

TEA BAGS

Caffeinated tea bags, particularly green tea or chamomile, can be beneficial. After steeping the tea bags in hot water, allow them to cool and then place them on your closed eyes for about 15 minutes. The antioxidants and caffeine in tea may help diminish dark circles.

CUCUMBER SLICES

Cucumber slices have a cooling effect and can help lighten skin. Place thin slices of fresh, chilled cucumber on your eyes for around 15 minutes. This can soothe the area and reduce the appearance of dark circles.

ALMOND OIL

Gently massaging a small amount of almond oil under your eyes before bedtime can moisturize the skin and improve blood circulation. Regular use may contribute to reducing dark circles.

ROSE WATER

Applying rose water to the under-eye area using a cotton ball can have a soothing effect. Rose water may help rejuvenate the skin and reduce dark circles over time. Additionally, the natural anti-inflammatory properties of rose water can also assist in alleviating puffiness around the eyes, contributing to a refreshed and revitalized appearance.

ADEQUATE SLEEP

Ensuring you get enough quality sleep is crucial for preventing and reducing dark circles. Lack of sleep can contribute to skin paleness and make dark circles more prominent. Adequate sleep not only plays a key role in preventing and reducing dark circles but is essential for maintaining overall skin health, as it allows the skin to regenerate and repair itself, minimizing the prominence of dark circles.

HYDRATION

Staying well-hydrated is essential for overall skin health. Drinking an adequate amount of water helps keep your skin hydrated and may minimize the appearance of dark circles. Proper hydration is a fundamental aspect of promoting healthy skin, as it assists in maintaining skin elasticity and reducing the likelihood of dark circles by ensuring the skin remains adequately moisturized.

HEALTHY DIET

A nutritious diet rich in vitamins and minerals is beneficial for skin health. Include foods high in antioxidants, such as fruits and vegetables, to support your skin and reduce dark circles. Incorporating a variety of antioxidant-rich foods, such as colorful fruits and vegetables, into your diet is not only beneficial for overall skin health but can also play a role in supporting the reduction of dark circles, providing essential nutrients for a vibrant complexion.

SUNPROTECT 

Protecting your skin from the sun can prevent pigmentation and further darkening of the under-eye area. Use sunscreen and wear sunglasses when exposed to sunlight. Shielding your skin from the sun’s harmful rays is crucial in preventing pigmentation and worsening of dark circles beneath the eyes; adopting protective measures like sunscreen application and wearing sunglasses helps maintain the delicate skin around the eyes.

DO EXERCISE

Regular physical activity can be instrumental in preventing the development of dark circles under the eyes. This is attributed to the fact that exercise enhances blood circulation, ensuring a more efficient flow without stagnation in the eye region, ultimately diminishing the appearance of dark circles. When you start working out, you can try easy exercises you find online, like the 12-3-30 treadmild workout. Also, there are lots of different exercises to help you lose weight and manage your weight.

MEDICAL TREATMENTs for DARK CIRCLES

For a swift and lasting solution to your dark circles, reach out to your healthcare provider. They can provide information on available treatment options tailored to your skin condition. Medical interventions for addressing dark circles under your eyes may involve:

TOPICAL CREAMS AND BLEACHING AGENTS

Topical creams, such as those containing vitamin C, and bleaching agents like hydroquinone, can be employed to lighten the appearance of dark circles. These formulations work by addressing pigmentation issues and promoting a more even skin tone.

CHEMICALS PEELS

Chemical peels utilize alpha-hydroxy acids to reduce pigmentation and improve skin texture under the eyes. This treatment involves the application of a chemical solution to exfoliate the top layer of the skin, leading to a rejuvenated and refreshed appearance.

LASER THERAPY

Laser procedures offer noninvasive options for treating dark circles. Pulsed dye and diode lasers, among others, can resurface and tighten the skin, addressing pigmentation concerns and promoting collagen production for improved skin elasticity.

TISSUE FILLERS

Injectable fillers, such as those containing hyaluronic acid gel, can be used to increase volume and smooth out the skin under the eyes. This approach is effective in reducing the appearance of hollows or depressions that contribute to the dark circle phenomenon.

EYELID SURGERY (BLEPHAROPLASTY)

In more extensive cases, eyelid surgery, known as blepharoplasty, may be considered. This surgical procedure involves the removal of excess fat and skin from the eye area, addressing both pigmentation and skin laxity contributing to dark circles.

PLATELET-RICH PLASMA (PRP) INJECTIONS

PRP injections are another treatment option that involves drawing a small amount of the patient’s blood, processing it to concentrate platelets, and injecting the platelet-rich plasma into the skin around the eyes. This stimulates blood vessel growth, enhances collagen production, and supports overall skin rejuvenation.

HOW CAN DARK CIRCLES UNDER MY EYES BE PREVENTED?

Preventing dark circles under your eyes may not always be possible, yet certain adjustments can be made to potentially alleviate the issue. These adjustments include:

USE SUN PROTECTION

Don’t forget to put sunscreen on your face, especially around your eyes. And wear sunglasses. To shield your skin from the sun’s harmful effects, it’s important to use sun protection, particularly around your eyes. Apply sunscreen to your face and wear sunglasses for added defense against UV rays.

REDUCE YOUR STRESS

Maintaining a healthy sleep schedule is crucial in preventing dark circles. Ensure you go to bed on time, aiming for at least seven hours of sleep each night. Sufficient and quality sleep contributes to overall skin health, reducing the likelihood of dark circles.

CUT DOWN ON DRINKING

Cutting down on alcohol consumption is advisable, as excessive drinking can lead to reduced circulation, potentially contributing to the formation of dark circles under the eyes. Limiting alcohol intake is a wise choice since excessive drinking not only has the potential to diminish circulation but may also play a role in the development of dark circles under the eyes.

QUIT SMOKING AND USING TOBACCO

Quitting smoking and using tobacco is essential. Smoking accelerates the aging process of the skin, which can intensify the appearance of dark circles. Making these lifestyle adjustments can contribute to maintaining healthier skin and minimizing the risk of developing dark circles.

WHEN YOU SHOULD YOU CALL HEALTHCARE PROVIDER

Dark circles under your eyes are likely a result of aging, insufficient sleep, or another common cause, rather than a medical problem. However, if you notice a dark circle or swelling under just one eye, it’s advisable to contact your healthcare provider, as it could be an indication of an underlying health condition that requires attention.

FAQ

1. Why do I still have dark circles when I get enough sleep?

Even with sufficient sleep, dark circles can persist due to various factors such as genetics, aging, allergies, or dehydration, which may contribute to the appearance of under-eye discoloration. 

2. Do dark circles go away naturally?

In some cases, dark circles may improve naturally with lifestyle changes; however, for some individuals, especially those with genetic predispositions or underlying health issues, dark circles may persist for a long time.

3. Can ice remove dark circles?

Applying ice to the under-eye area can temporarily reduce puffiness and constrict blood vessels, which may help diminish the appearance of dark circles. But, it is not a permanent solution.

CONCLUSION

Understanding the causes and available treatments for dark circles under the eyes provides valuable insights into managing this common concern. Incorporating lifestyle changes, exploring topical remedies, and considering interventions like under-eye patches for dark circles can contribute to a more comprehensive approach to addressing this issue. Additionally, recognizing individual factors, such as genetics and underlying health conditions, can shed light on the question, “Why do I have dark circles?” Through a combination of preventive measures, targeted treatments, and a better understanding of personal factors, individuals can take proactive steps towards reducing the appearance of dark circles and promoting overall eye health.

HOW TO GET RID OF PUFFY EYES AFTER CRYING

Crying can make us feel better, whether it’s because of happiness, sadness, or just life being unpredictable. But when the tears dry up, we’re often left with a not-so-great result: puffy eyes. Swollen and red eyes not only mess with how we look but can also be uncomfortable and make us a bit shy. If you’re wondering how to make your eyes look normal again after a good cry, you’re not the only one. In this guide, we’ll check out lots of easy tricks and things you can do at home to get rid of puffy eyes and make your eyes lively again.

WHY DO PEOPLE CRY

Our eyes are always making tears to keep them healthy. These tears come from a gland called the lacrimal gland and spread across our eyes, then drain out from the corners of our eyelids. There are three kinds of tears:

Basal Tears: These basal tears are like the eyes’ natural moisturizer, keeping them comfortable and safeguarding the clear part at the front called the cornea. They make sure our eyes stay wet, which is crucial for seeing clearly and preventing irritation. Imagine them as a helpful shield that’s there all the time, quietly doing its job to maintain our eye health. So, whenever you blink, thank these basal tears for keeping your eyes feeling good and shielded from the dusty world around.

Reflex Tears: Reflex tears come to the rescue when our eyes are annoyed by things like smoke or strong onion scents. They appear to fight off any harmful bacteria that might try to sneak into our eyes. So, when you tear up while chopping onions or being near a smoky fire, those reflex tears are on duty, defending your eyes from potential intruders.

Emotional Tears: Emotional tears come out when we have big feelings, such as extreme happiness or sadness. They are a special kind of tears that express our emotions, whether it’s a joyful celebration or a moment of deep sorrow. So, when you cry because you’re super happy or something has made you very sad, those are your emotional tears letting your feelings show. It’s a natural way for our bodies to release and express intense emotions.

When we cry a lot because of emotions, we can make more tears than our eyes can handle. This makes the tears overflow from our eyes and sometimes our nose. The tissues around our eyes can soak up the extra tears, making our eyes look puffy.

WHAT TO DO FOR PUFFY EYES AFTER CRYING

When you cry, your eyes might get puffy because of a few reasons. First, crying makes the blood vessels around your eyes swell up, which can cause puffiness. The tears themselves contain salt, and when they mix with the skin around your eyes, it can hold onto extra water, making your eyes look swollen. Sometimes, if you rub or wipe your eyes while crying, it can irritate the skin and make it puffy. 

Feeling stressed or tired from crying can also affect your skin, making it more likely to get puffy. Paying attention to your diet, avoiding too much salt, and making sure you stay hydrated can help reduce puffiness. 

If it keeps happening, it might be because of your genes or getting older, as these factors can also play a role in under-eye puffiness.

TREATMENT FOR PUFFY EYES AFTER CRYING

Here are a few home remedies that might help lessen the look of puffy eyes.

COLD COMPRESS

Applying a cold compress or chilled cucumber slices to your closed eyes is a simple yet effective method for soothing and relieving various eye concerns. This technique is particularly beneficial for reducing puffiness, swelling, and alleviating discomfort around the eyes. Anything cold can help with inflammation and swelling, as it reduces blood flow.

APPLY WITH HAZEL

If you have witch hazel at home, it can be helpful for puffiness and redness. It’s good for treating swelling. But be careful not to put it directly in your sensitive eye area. Here’s how you can use it: dampen a cotton pad slightly—don’t let it get too wet—then gently press it on your upper cheek, away from the lower eyelid. Before using it, make sure to read the label to see if it’s safe near your eyes.

SPOONS

Another trick to help with puffy eyes is using cold metal spoons. Run two clean spoons under cold water for a few minutes. Then, place the rounded part of the spoons over your closed eyelids for about 30 to 60 seconds. The cold metal can soothe the puffiness and make your eyes feel better.

HYDRATION

Drinking enough water is really important for staying healthy and can help a lot in reducing puffiness under your eyes. When you don’t drink enough water, your body can hold onto fluids, making your eyes look more swollen. So, by drinking plenty of water, you help your body circulate fluids better and remove waste, making your eyes look fresher and less puffy.

EYE CREAMS OR GELS

Using an eye cream or gel with ingredients like caffeine, aloe vera, or chamomile can be really helpful in reducing puffiness around your eyes. These ingredients have soothing and anti-inflammatory properties, which can calm down any swelling and make your eyes look and feel better. Applying a small amount in a gentle, circular motion can give your eyes a refreshing boost.

ELEVATE YOUR HEAD

When you sleep, try using an extra pillow to prop up your head a bit. This helps stop fluid from collecting around your eyes, reducing the chance of waking up with puffiness. It’s a simple trick that can make your mornings more refreshing.

AVOID RUBBING

Avoid rubbing your eyes because it can make irritation and puffiness worse. Instead, try blinking a few times to let your tears spread naturally, providing relief without causing more irritation. It’s a simple way to soothe your eyes gently.

LIMIT SALT INTAKE

Cutting down on salty foods can help lessen under-eye puffiness because too much salt can make your body hold onto water. By reducing salt intake, you can prevent extra fluid buildup, making your eyes look less puffy. Choosing fresh, whole foods and seasoning your meals with herbs and spices instead of salt can be a tasty way to keep under-eye swelling in check. Remember, a little change in your diet can go a long way in keeping your eyes looking and feeling good!

STAY RELAXED

Taking time for relaxation can be really helpful in reducing stress, which might make your eyes puffy. Simple techniques like deep breathing or listening to calming music can make a big difference. When you’re less stressed, it’s easier for your body to stay balanced, and that includes keeping puffiness around your eyes in check. So, find a moment to relax and give your eyes a break from any tension!

HOW TO MANAGE RED EYES FROM CRYING

Managing flushing, especially around the eyes, involves adopting a combination of practical strategies and utilizing suitable products. When emotions lead to crying, the blood vessels around the eyes may enlarge, resulting in flushing or a change in skin color. To address this, you can incorporate techniques commonly employed to alleviate puffiness, such as placing a cool compress on the eyes or ensuring an adequate amount of sleep. Moreover, specific eye drops tailored to reduce discoloration around the eyes can be beneficial. These specialized drops, along with the use of serums and creams formulated for eye care, contribute to effectively managing flushing.

It is important to follow the recommended usage guidelines for these products and not overuse them, as excessive application can potentially worsen symptoms. Additionally, individuals who wear contact lenses should exercise caution and carefully read product labels, as certain formulas may not be suitable for lens wearers. By integrating these approaches into your daily eye care routine, you can navigate and mitigate flushing, maintaining a refreshed and vibrant appearance.

How to manage dryness

Ensuring proper hydration is crucial for overall health. Although the commonly suggested eight glasses of water per day is not a strict rule, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) emphasizes tailoring hydration needs to individual factors like age and health. Water not only quenches thirst but also plays a vital role in promoting general well-being. Adding flavor to your water with a bit of lemon, slices of cucumber, or your favorite fruit can make it more enjoyable.

Regarding tears, while generally not harmful to the skin, prolonged exposure may lead to dryness. Rinsing your face with cold water and gently patting it dry with a soft towel can help alleviate this issue. If necessary, using a face wash is recommended by the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD), with a preference for alcohol-free cleansers devoid of physical exfoliants. It’s important to avoid overwashing your face, as doing so more than twice a day may contribute to persistent dryness and other skin-related problems.

After crying, your skin may feel dry and itchy. The AAD suggests reaching for a moisturizer to help your skin recover. Applying moisturizer immediately after cleansing helps lock in moisture, but it’s essential to read the product label and be extra gentle when applying products near the eye area. Taking these steps can contribute to maintaining skin health and preventing issues associated with dryness.

FAQ

1. How long do puffy eyes last after crying?

The duration of puffy eyes after crying varies from person to person, but it typically lasts for about 15 minutes to a few hours as the swelling gradually subsides. 

2. Why do I look prettier after I cry?

After crying, some people may feel they look prettier due to increased blood flow to the skin, creating a natural flush or glow, and the eyes appearing more expressive as tears may enhance their sparkle. 

3. Do you burn calories when you cry?

Even though crying burns calories, you’d need to cry continuously for hours or days to burn as many calories as a short, brisk walk. Research suggests that crying and laughing both burn about 1.3 calories per minute.

4. Can crying too much change your eyes?

Crying excessively is not known to permanently change the physical structure of the eyes. However, it can temporarily cause redness, puffiness, and increased blood flow.

5. Should I wash my face after crying?

Yes, washing your face after crying can help remove any residual tear residue, reduce puffiness, and refresh your skin. 

CONCLUSION

Trying different things at home can help your eyes feel less puffy after crying, but you may need to see what works best for you. If your eyes or face are puffy for a long time, talking to your doctor may help. Taking good care of your skin and eating a healthy diet is important to keep your eyes in good condition overall.