While dark circles are common and perfectly natural, they can make you look older and feel self-conscious. So, if you’re wondering how to get rid of dark circles, keep reading. We explain what causes dark circles and how to reduce their appearance for more youthful and radiant-looking eyes.
What Are Dark Circles?
Dark circles are the purple, brown or black areas beneath the eyes that create a sunken and dull appearance (their colour is largely dependent on your skin tone). They appear because the skin under the eyes is a quarter of the thickness of the skin on the rest of the face, making dark veins beneath the skin more visible.
What Causes Dark Circles Under Eyes?
It’s a myth that dark circles are only caused by fatigue. In fact, there are many reasons why you could wake up with dark circles.
Dehydration
If the skin is dry or dehydrated, it often looks dull and lacklustre, causing the under-eye area to appear dark and sullen.
Ageing
As we age, our skin begins to thin and lose elasticity, as its natural fat and collagen levels deplete. The thinner the skin, the more the dark blood vessels and veins beneath become visible, resulting in darker under-eyes.
Sun Damage
When exposed to the sun, the body naturally produces a dark pigment called melanin to protect the skin. However, melanin can appear unevenly on the skin, resulting in hyperpigmentation and dark circles below the eyes.
Eye Strain
Spending the day staring at screens can strain the eyes and cause the surrounding blood vessels to become enlarged, resulting in dark under-eye circles.
Fatigue
It isn’t entirely a myth – fatigue can heighten the appearance of dark circles.
The skin naturally repairs itself overnight, but if you’re not getting enough sleep, that renewal system is compromised. Skin is left looking pale and dull with visible under-eye circles.
How To Get Rid Of Dark Circles
Looking to get rid of dark circles? Our 5 expert tips will help.
1. Remove Eye Makeup Carefully
Thinner and more delicate, the skin under the eyes can easily be damaged and weakened by harsh cleansers, causing puffiness and dark circles. Instead, remove makeup with a gentle yet effective cleanser that doesn’t require excessive rubbing.
Our Hallelujah Lime & Patchouli Cleanser & Makeup Remover is formulated with nutrient-rich Avocado Oil to gently remove makeup and impurities, while hydrating and revitalising the skin.
