Dark circles under the eyes can be a pesky problem for many people, regardless of how much sleep they get or how much eye cream they use. To help banish these unwanted under-eye bags, we consulted with experts in dermatology and makeup artistry to gather advice on causes, treatments, and prevention methods for achieving a more even-looking, bag-free complexion.
What Causes Dark Circles?
Dark circles can be attributed to various factors, including lack of sleep, allergies, genetics, dehydration, trauma from eye rubbing, sun exposure, aging, and overuse of alcohol. Allergy-related dark circles, also known as ‘allergic shiners,’ are caused by nasal and sinus congestion, leading to blood pooling in the small veins under the eyes and resulting in a dark, swollen appearance. Additionally, genetic and age-related factors such as collagen and elastin loss can contribute to thinning skin, revealing vascular structures and creating a hollow appearance under the eyes.
Dark Circles Treatments
When it comes to treating dark circles, there are several options available, depending on the underlying cause. While eye cream can offer some improvement, its effectiveness is limited due to the root cause often lying beneath the skin’s surface.
At-Home Remedies
There are numerous at-home remedies that can help reduce the appearance of dark circles, such as cold compresses, tea bags, and cucumber slices. These methods can help alleviate puffiness and improve circulation around the eyes.
Preventing Dark Circles
Implementing healthy lifestyle habits, including getting an adequate amount of sleep, staying hydrated, and managing allergies, can aid in preventing the formation of dark circles. Protecting the delicate skin around the eyes from sun exposure and minimizing alcohol consumption are also essential preventive measures.
Concealing Dark Circles
For those looking to conceal dark circles, makeup can be a valuable tool. Celebrity makeup artist Tomy Rivero provides insights on techniques and products to effectively camouflage under-eye discoloration, offering practical tips for achieving a more even complexion.
Expert Advice
Our experts, including board-certified dermatologists Lindsey Zubritsky, M.D., F.A.A.D., and Deanne Mraz, M.D., F.A.A.D., along with celebrity makeup artist Tomy Rivero, share their wisdom on combatting dark circles and achieving a smoother, more radiant under-eye area.
