If you are battling black circles, you are not alone. Black under eyes are sources of frustration for a sizeable percentage of the population across various demographics. Naturally, there is a high demand for effective ways to get rid of black circles.
Let’s explore the different methods you can try to get rid of black under eyes. Some of these may surprise you, while others may remind you of your mum’s (commonly known to trace back every problem to not drinking enough water). Keep reading to learn how to get rid of these bothersome black circles, from proper hydration to specially formulated products.
How To Get Rid Of Black Circles Using Skin Care
Skin care, whether they are skin care hacks or skincare products, can be a highly effective way to get rid of black circles. From using something cold to depuff your eyes and reduce the appearance of black circles to applying the best dark circle corrector products suited to your skin, there are a slew of options to choose from depending on your preferences.
We can classify these skin care methods into two broad categories:
1. Home Remedies:
These are simple methods you can try at home to get rid of black circles naturally, most of which don’t carry any risk of adverse side effects. However, it is also important to note that some of these might not be as effective as other science-backed methods.
Home remedies to get rid of black under eyes include:
Applying something cold to your eyes: Popular choices include refrigerated cucumber slices, tea bags, and even the back of a spoon. You can also try jade rollers or ice rollers.
Adding an extra pillow when you sleep: Elevating your head while you sleep at night can help avoid any fluid collection and consequent puffiness around the eyes, which helps get rid of the appearance of black under eyes.
Face massages:
Gently massaging your face improves circulation, which helps reduce black circles. The relaxing effect of a facial massage can also reduce your stress levels.
2. Skincare Products: Serums, Creams, Masks & More
Your delicate under-eye skin needs some TLC, and scientifically formulated skincare products designed specifically for the periorbital skin can help you with that.
Popular eye skincare products that help get rid of black circles include:
Eye serums and gels:
Well-formulated serums and gels have a light consistency, glide on effortlessly, and contain the right amount of active ingredients that target periorbital skin concerns. Eye serums and gels that specifically target black circles contain ingredients like caffeine, antioxidants, niacinamide, peptides, etc.
Keep reading to find out what to look for in an effective dark circle corrector skincare product.
Sun Protectant:
One of the most important steps that should be added to your skincare routine to get rid of black under eyes is applying a sun protection product to your periorbital skin. Products specifically designed for periorbital skin sun protection are recommended over normal sunscreens, which can be too heavy for your delicate undereye area.
Eye Creams:
Eye creams have a thicker consistency compared to gels and serums. These are usually preferred if you have very dry skin that needs intense hydration. Also, eye creams tend to have fewer active ingredients compared to their serum and gel counterparts.
Eye Masks:
There are several kinds of eye masks on the market, including conventional sheet masks and innovative LED eye masks. Eye masks that use ingredients that help get rid of black circles can be effective and relaxing at the same time.
Checklist To Find An Effective Dark Circle Corrector Product
The best dark circle corrector products should ideally meet the following requirements:
1. Ingredients that support black circle reduction with appropriate concentrations:
These include vasoconstrictors (substances that constrict the blood vessels) like caffeine, antioxidants like vitamin C, niacinamide (a form of vitamin B3), peptides, ceramides, etc. that have been proven to drastically reduce the appearance of black circles.
The concentrations of active ingredients are also important. For example, high concentrations of ingredients like vitamin A can be detrimental to your periorbital skin health.
2. SPF 30 or higher:
Your periorbital skin needs a sun-protectant product that has an SPF rating of at least 30 or higher to be effective.
3. Broad-spectrum sun protection:
Make sure the product has broad-spectrum sun protection. This means they offer protection from two different types of UV rays emitted by the sun (UVA and UVB). These can be responsible for several eye skin concerns, including black under eyes.
4. Opaque packaging with an in-built applicator:
Opaque packaging makes sure the active ingredients do not react with light and lose their maximum efficacy. Products with an in-built applicator prevent users from repeatedly dipping their fingers into the product, which can introduce unwanted substances into the product.
5. Independent study results:
Look for any clinical evidence that supports the product’s claims. Ratings and reviews will give you a good indication of the popular opinion as well.
6. Doctor approval:
Scientifically formulating a product for your delicate periorbital skin requires deep knowledge and expertise. A doctor-approved product indicates that it uses ingredients safe for this area and can be trusted.
If It’s Good For Your Health, It’s Good For Your Skin
Generally speaking, habits that are good for your overall health largely overlap with habits that are good for your skin, including the skin around your eyes (called periorbital skin). While there are skin issues that are not caused by lifestyle factors, there is no downside to incorporating these healthy changes into your daily life. Therefore, learning how to keep your body healthy will also aid you in learning how to keep your eyes healthy.
Lifestyle changes can help improve your skin and get rid of black under eyes naturally. These include:
1. Get adequate sleep:
Lack of adequate sleep has consequences such as thinning skin and blood pooling under the eyes, resulting in the appearance of black under eyes.
At least 7-8 hours of sleep every night is recommended for adults, but the optimal duration may vary for each individual. This can help get rid of black circles.
2. Eat healthy:
Consume a balanced diet with the recommended daily requirements of vitamins and nutrients. Foods rich in vitamins A, B complex, C, D, and E, omega-3 fatty acids, etc. are known to improve skin health and can also reduce or get rid of black circles.
3. Hydrate well:
Drinking enough water every day (the recommended quantity varies depending on your location) can truly be a game-changer for your skin health.
4. Manage stress:
High stress can result in elevated cortisol levels that contribute to inflammation and, consequently, the appearance of black circles. It can also interfere with your sleep pattern.
Completely avoiding stress is next to impossible; the next best thing is to find ways to manage stress factors using mechanisms that work for you. Improving your mental well-being and minimising stress can have tremendous effects on your physical health, including your skin.
5. Exercise regularly:
In addition to the strength and physical health benefits, regular exercise also tends to have a significant positive impact on your mental health. Pick an activity or exercise you like and aim to make a sustainable habit out of it.
6. Avoid drinking and smoking:
Staying away from alcohol and smoking makes a world of difference when it comes to the appearance and health of your skin. While the occasional drink might be okay, it is important to avoid excessive alcohol consumption. As for smoking, it is best to stop it completely.
How To Get Rid Of Black Undereyes With Professional Help
If the methods you tried did not prove helpful, you don’t want to go through the lengthy trial-and-error process of finding what works best for you, or if you have sensitive skin, seeking professional advice can always help. Doctors will recommend different methods to get rid of black circles depending on several factors, like the cause of your black circles, lifestyle habits, genetics, age, preferences, and so on.
In some cases, you might receive prescription skincare that contains higher concentrations of actives that can help address the root cause of your specific concerns. In other cases, they may also recommend procedures like tear trough fillers or surgeries like blepharoplasty (eyelid lift surgery).
The skin around the eye is extremely thin and delicate, which means it needs to be handled with expertise and precision. Therefore, make sure to choose an experienced doctor to perform any procedures you may opt for.
Quick Recap: How To Get Rid Of Black Circles
Black circles around the eyes are a common issue that can be frustrating to deal with. Options that help you get rid of these black circles naturally include home remedies and lifestyle modifications. Remember that most home remedies are supported only by anecdotal evidence. Scientifically backed options may include skincare products, non-surgical procedures, and surgeries.
Depending on the underlying cause of your black circles as well as your personal preferences, the best-suited method for you will vary. If you are confused, frustrated, or worried about adverse side effects, it is best to seek professional help. On the other hand, if you decide to try out skincare products, keep our checklist handy to make sure you get the best product out there!
