Dark circles under the lower eyelids are a common issue in both men and women. And it can make you look older than usual, reducing your facial appearance. Dark circles under the eyes may look purple or blue to dark brown or black, depending on skin color. They may occur due to several different causes (1).

Causes of Dark Circles

There are so many contributing factors to dark circles (2). Here are some causes to know.

1. Aging

Natural aging is another common cause of getting dark circles beneath your eyelids. As you grow older, the tissue around the eyes begins to thin. You lose the needed fat and collagen production to maintain skin elasticity.

2. Allergies and Dehydration

Allergic reactions and dehydration can cause the area under the eyes to look darker. It is because your body wouldn’t get the proper amount of water which makes the skin of your under-eyes look dull. Some food allergies can also increase your urge and scratch the itchy skin around the eyes. Nowadays, most children are affected by dark circles because of these problems.

3. Smoking and Drinking 

Intake of heavy alcohol and smoking results in dark eye circles in many cases because excessive smoke and caffeinated drinks can decrease the level of water in your body, which makes your body dehydrated.

4. Eye Strain

Looking at a computer screen or television for a long time can strain your eyes. Using a mobile phone can cause this problem too. Furthermore, during sleep, the body rejuvenates the tissue underneath the eyes. So, the lack of sleep is the primary cause of dark circles. And other kinds of factors are,

• Genetics
• Anemia
• Sun overexposure
• Fatigue
• Anemia
• Nutrition deficiency

Few Easy Treatments at Home

1. Rosewater

Rosewater has skin lightening properties that help eliminate dark circles; this is an easy and effective way to remove dark circles.

• Dip cotton pads in rose water and then place these cotton balls in the affected area for 5-7 mins and then remove them.
• Try this method twice a week to prevent dark circles.
• Use only virgin and natural rose water to get better outcomes.

2. Cucumber Slices

Cucumber contains vitamin K, which can help reduce dark circles by strengthening blood vessels. It is a popular remedy for dark circles.

• Cut cucumber as slices and refrigerate for 30 minutes.
• Set them on your eyes for 10-15 mins, and you can try it twice a day.
• Chilled cucumber act as a cold compress.

3. Cold Milk

Milk contains lactic acid, which helps in fighting aging and pigmentation. And the cold milk gives relaxation to blood vessels present in the under-eye region.

• Take ¼ cup of chilled milk and soak two cotton pads into it. 
• Place them on the affected areas and do this twice a week for faster results.

4. Raw Potato

Potatoes have natural bleaching properties which can reduce dark circles.

• Take either potato slice or its extract and apply it to your eyes.
• Leave it on for 10-15 min and wash it off with water.
• When you repeat this twice a week, you will notice good results.

5. Cold Tea Bags

Tea helps to stimulate blood circulation and reduce liquid retention under your skin. It has caffeine and antioxidants, which can improve your eye’s appearance.

• Soak tea bags in hot water for 5 mins, refrigerate them for 20 mins.
• Then, close your eyes and apply the tea bags; leave them on for 15-20 mins.
• Remove them and rinse your eyes with cool water.

Prevention Tips

• Stay hydrated
• Get enough sleep
• Using a cold compress
• Wear sunscreen daily
• Take iron-rich foods and collagen-rich foods
• Avoid alcohol and salty foods
• Quit smoking
• Limit your screen time