Dark circles under or around the eyes can be caused by stress, fatigue, allergies, ageing, nutritional deficiencies and genetics. Though not technically a medical condition, dark circles may cause sufferers to feel self-conscious about their appearance.
Fortunately, there are several treatments available that address this common feature of facial ageing.
How do you get rid of dark circles?
Many people believe they only have two options when it comes to dark circles around the eyes. They think they can either continue to suffer through them, or go under the scalpel for cosmetic surgery. However, this is not often true anymore.
There are now non-invasive methods for dark eye circles removal. Some of the most popular options include laser skin resurfacing, chemical peels and topical creams. The best method for you will depend on your preferences and finances.
Before trying to treat dark circles with any procedure, it is important that you visit a doctor to make sure you do not have a medical condition that is causing the dark, sunken under-eye area.
Is it possible to remove dark circles with laser skin resurfacing?
Laser skin resurfacing has been shown to be an effective treatment for removing or reducing the appearance of dark circles. This procedure uses a laser beam to burn away layers of damaged skin and lessen the appearance of fine lines. It also stimulates the production of collagen, which gives skin a more youthful appearance.
In most cases, laser resurfacing is used to correct or improve scars from acne. However, some doctors have found that this treatment can be used to reduce dark under eye circles as well as other types of facial hyperpigmentation.
Is it possible to remove dark circles with chemical peels?
Chemical peels are also among the most popular ways to get rid of dark circles under the eyes. This procedure uses a solution that is applied to the skin, which causes it to exfoliate and eventually peel off. The new, regenerated skin appears lighter than the surrounding skin.
Chemical peels can be done at home by making a solution out of baking soda and lemon juice, or they can be performed in an office setting by specially-trained doctors or aestheticians.
Is it possible to remove dark circles with topical creams?
Some people believe that using creams made specifically for dark circles under the eyes can reduce or get rid of dark circles.
Although creams may lighten dark pigmentation, many doctors do not recommend them for the treatment of undereye darkness because they are usually ineffective at treating this problem.
Can you remove dark circles with laser treatment?
Lasers are also used for dark eye circles removal by precisely delivering laser energy to the surface of the skin, which stimulates collagen production and increases blood flow in the area. This helps erase dark pigmentation and relieves puffiness under the eyes.
Is it possible to remove dark circles under the eyes with dermabrasion?
Dermabrasion is an effective treatment for periorbital hyperpigmentation that involves using a machine with a rotating wheel studded with rough diamond tips to sand away the top layers of skin, which reduces any discoloration.
Is it possible to remove dark circles with over-the-counter products?
Although there are many topical treatments for dark circles under the eyes available over the counter, few have been proven to be effective.
If you do choose this route, make sure that you read product reviews and talk to a dermatologist before you buy anything.
What other options are available?
If you are looking for an instant fix, try applying cucumber slices or eye gel patches to your eyes. The coolness de-puffs and decreases puffiness under the eyes.
Applying a cold spoon, like a teabag with ice water on it, has also been shown to reduce the darkness under the eyes.
You may have read that rubbing a lemon wedge under your eyes can reduce darkness. However, you’ll need to avoid this treatment if you have sensitive skin because of the acid in lemons.
Switching up your skincare routine to include serums with vitamin K, caffeine, or antioxidants may help remove circles under the eyes. Many of these serums can be applied before your moisturizer and makeup, but you will most likely need to adjust the latter products as well.