Dark circles are the bane of some people existence and to others a temporary change in appearance often associated with lack of sleep. While sleep deprivation may be one cause another often overlooked cause may actually be lack of water. Dehydration can show up around the eye area as dark circles and possibly even a slight temporary increase in the appearance of wrinkles.

To help improve the appearance of tired eyes try these tips:

  1. Drink at least 6-8 x 300ml glasses of pure, filtered water per day. Water is essential for all cellular process including the movement of toxins out and nutrients into the cell. In mid winter it can be hard to drink water so consider adding a little water from the kettle to make it warm. Or drink a few herbal teas during the day to boost your water intake. Coffee and black tea don’t count as water intake as they actually have a diuretic effect which may make dehydration worse.
  2. Include good fats in your diet as they help to improve hydration from the inside. Everyday food sources include fish, avocado, nuts & seeds and olive oil. Alternatively consider a Omega 3 fatty acid supplement.
  3. Hydrate your skin from the outside. Use an eye cream or gel that contains Vitamin C, Hyaluronic Acid or Ginseng extract to help reduce the appearance of under eye dark circles. Gels tend to be better if eyes are puffy and creams where dryness or an anti-aging effect is required.
  4. Hide it! To reduce the effect of dark circles use a cream concealer. Mineral or finishing powders tend to highlight any dryness or creases where as cream/fluid concealers will add moisture as well as coving up darkness. Choose a shade lighter than your natural skin tone.
  5. Get some sleep. Don’t rule out good sleep and generally one night won’t cut it. If you are sleep deprived, think about why and if you can change your patterns. Head to bed earlier to give yourself the chance to fall into deeper sleep for longer. The bonus is that your energy levels should also increase.
  6. Consume foods that contain vitamin C and antioxidants to improve the microvasculature around the eyes. This will help to clear the blue/purple undertone of dark circles. Studies show that foods rich in carotenoids improve skin tone and colour. Carotenoid rich foods include berries, capsicum, spinach, pumpkin, carrot, green leafies and tomatoes (yellow, orange, red and green veg)
  7. Give yourself an eye treatment. Take 15 minutes and make yourself a cup of chamomile or green tea. Pop the used bags in the fridge to cool down then place over closed eyes for 15 minutes. This will help reduce puffiness and is calming to the eye area. Cucumber slices will also help.

If you have come across a treatment that works for dark circles we would love to hear – please comment.

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