For over a decade now, I’ve been creating and selling organic, plant-based skincare products, including our latest release, Hello Joyous. This journey has sparked my passion for natural skincare and beauty. A question I frequently encounter is what leads to dark under-eye circles and how natural remedies can help minimize them. To provide insights, I’ve consulted with experts in natural health and beauty. Keep reading for their fantastic suggestions!
In this post, I’ll identify seven common causes of dark under-eye circles and discuss natural methods to reduce their visibility.
**7 Causes of Dark Under-Eye Circles**
The body functions as a unified system, so dark under-eye circles rarely have a single cause. Below, I’ve listed seven typical causes. I’ve also sought expert opinions on how various factors, from kidney health to facial structure, can influence dark circles.
1. **Low Iron Levels**
Iron plays a vital role in red blood cells, specifically in hemoglobin that transports oxygen-rich blood throughout the body. This oxygenated blood keeps your cells and organs healthy and vibrant. If your iron levels drop, your body may produce fewer red blood cells, which might reduce the nourishment reaching your skin. Priority is given to supplying your internal organs with oxygen-rich blood. Thus, skin may receive less, enhancing dark under-eye circles’ appearance due to paleness.
2. **Food Allergies**
I first learned about the link between allergies and dark circles in nutrition school 15 years ago. Dark circles can be a symptom of allergies, triggered by certain foods, as well as dust mites, mold, or seasonal allergies—commonly referred to as “allergic shiners.” Sinus congestion resulting from allergies often causes dark circles. Allergic reactions lead your immune system to mistakenly identify harmless substances as threats, releasing histamine, which dilates blood vessels and causes congestion. This congestion can pool blood under the eyes, creating dark circles and puffiness.
3. **Low Thyroid Function**
Low thyroid function can lead to fluid retention, including around the eyes, causing bags and darkness due to excessive fluid.
4. **Poor Sleep**
We all know this one! Not getting enough sleep not only makes you look older and tired but also highlights dark circles by dilating blood vessels under the eyes.
5. **Dehydration**
This is the easiest to fix! When you’re dehydrated, blood vessels become more pronounced under the thin skin around your eyes, leading to darker circles.
6. **Adrenal Fatigue**
Adrenal fatigue is linked with dark under-eye circles due to suboptimal kidney and liver function. In Traditional Chinese Medicine, the area under the eyes is connected to the kidneys, which regulate fluids and store vitality, impacting dark circles.
7. **Facial Structure**
Some individuals are naturally predisposed to dark under-eye circles due to facial anatomy. Deep-set eyes or particular facial features can cause shadowing, making dark circles more noticeable.
**Tips to Reduce Dark Under-Eye Circles**
Reducing dark under-eye circles is achievable by nurturing your health and using natural skincare products to care for the delicate skin around the eyes. Here are some of my favorite tips:
1. **Support Kidney & Adrenal Health**
Dr. Aliya Visram emphasizes the connection between balanced body energy and beauty according to Traditional Chinese Medicine. Support adrenal health by managing stress, ensuring adequate sleep, and incorporating adaptogens into your routine. Dr. Aliya recommends reducing salt intake, drinking more water, and nourishing foods for kidney health. Using Gua Sha can stimulate blood flow and reduce dark circles.
2. **Add Collagen to Your Diet**
Collagen degradation can make dark circles appear more prominent. Consider incorporating high-quality collagen or collagen-rich treats into your diet for healthy skin.
3. **Practice Healthy Sleep Hygiene**
Quality sleep is crucial. Try relaxing with TLC tea and explore my natural sleep solutions to enjoy better sleep.
4. **Check for Allergies**
If you suspect food or environmental allergies, working with a natural health provider can help identify and manage them, which might reduce dark circles.
5. **Monitor Thyroid and Iron Levels**
If thyroid function or low iron is a concern related to your dark circles, consulting a qualified health practitioner for proper testing and guidance is recommended.
6. **Stay Hydrated**
Drinking enough water daily can help prevent dehydration’s impact on your skin. Explore hydrating recipes rich in antioxidants and nutrients to support glowing skin.
7. **Use a High-Quality Eye Serum**
Adding a high-quality eye serum, like our Hello Joyous Eye Elixir, enriched with green tea extract, can effectively reduce puffiness and dark circles. Its antioxidants and vitamin K help diminish dark circles and nourish skin.
I hope this post gives you the information to support your health and naturally reduce dark under-eye circles!
Xo Joy
**Comments**
– Thank you, Joy! I’m grateful for the recommendations as I’ve always struggled with dark circles. I’ll definitely try some of these remedies!
– You’re welcome! I’m glad you find them helpful. Our eye serum has been receiving positive feedback and may help lighten dark circles. It’s worth checking out!
– My primary concern isn’t dark circles but aging skin and wrinkles. Is this product suitable, or do you have any advice?
– Hi Laura, our Eye Elixir is made to prevent fine lines, dark circles, and puffiness. It keeps skin soft and supple, which might be helpful for your concern.
– I’m dealing with dullness and darkness around my face and eyes. I’m off to drink more water now! – Annette
– What do you think about using turmeric to lighten dark eye circles?
– Are you considering using it topically or as a dietary supplement?
– Topically. I’ve seen some people using buttermilk with turmeric for an eye mask. Do you think that hydrates too?
– In theory, turmeric’s anti-inflammatory properties could help, but it may stain fair skin yellow for a while.
