Top 5 Ways to Get Rid of Dark Circles

Dark circles under the eyes can make you look tired and worn out, regardless of how well-rested you are. They can also make you feel self-conscious about your appearance, especially if they’re present when you’re trying to land that big client or interview for your dream job. Luckily, there are plenty of things you can do to get rid of dark circles and restore your confidence in your appearance again. Here are 5 ways to get rid of dark circles naturally, plus some tips for dealing with them in the meantime!

1) Drink More Water

Dehydration can cause dark circles, so be sure you’re staying hydrated. Dark circles can also be caused by poor circulation and too much time in front of your computer or TV. To improve circulation, sleep on your back with a few pillows (not under your head) under your knees. Resting your legs helps get the blood flowing back up to your heart and face, which decreases puffiness, dark circles, and leg swelling. If you spend hours at a desk every day—be it work or home—make sure to get up regularly and move around for at least five minutes each hour; even just stretching can make a big difference!

2) Avoid Smoking

Light and darkness both have an effect on your body, so it makes sense that smoking cigarettes could make dark circles worse. Smoking decreases blood flow, meaning your eyes get less oxygen. When you don’t get enough oxygen, things start breaking down—one of those things being melanin (the pigment in your skin). This leads to dark circles. If you want to avoid smoking but aren’t ready to quit entirely, use nicotine patches. They provide smokers with a safe dose of nicotine so they can slowly wean themselves off cigarettes while also getting rid of their dependency on tobacco.

4) Use a Cold Compress

Whether caused by genetics, allergies, or environmental factors, dark circles can really make a person look tired and unwell. A quick and easy way to reduce dark circles is by using a cold compress. Simply soak a cotton ball in cool water (not ice-cold) and place it on your under-eye area for about two minutes. It’s also important not to use too much pressure when applying – you don’t want any additional redness! Repeat as necessary, but no more than three times per day. Keep in mind that some people are sensitive or allergic to cucumbers and other fresh fruits/vegetables; if you have never applied them directly to your skin before, make sure you test a small patch of skin before treating your entire face.

3) Use an Under Eye Cream

Because dark circles occur as a result of blood vessels near your eyes, using an eye cream that contains vitamin K or lavender can reduce blood flow to these areas. Try using it before bed so you can wake up with brighter eyes. You can also apply cold spoons or a cucumber slice for 10 minutes each day—or better yet, both. (Just make sure you don’t freeze them.) The cool temperature has vasoconstricting effects that help reduce skin puffiness, says Joshua Zeichner, director of cosmetic and clinical research in dermatology at Mount Sinai Hospital in New York City. Cucumbers are especially good because they contain silica, which helps hydrate and fight wrinkles (and they taste delicious, too).

5) Increase Vitamin C Intake

In order for your body to produce collagen, which keeps skin healthy and elastic, you need vitamin C. Naturally occurring vitamin C comes fro m fruits like oranges and strawberries—they’re also high in sugar—so it may be a good idea to take an extra supplement. But keep in mind that vitamin C can only help so much when it comes to lightening dark circles. It’s best used as an addition or booster if you have dark spots from acne scarring or sun damage. Otherwise, use a concealer with natural ingredients (like coconut oil) instead.