It’s not only a lack of sleep that causes dark circles under eyes. While it doesn’t help matters, there are several other possible causes. Whether it’s dry skin, stress, allergies or just hereditary, here’s our advice on how to get rid of dark circles and banish them for good.
How to get rid of dark circles
Reasons for Dark Circles
It’s always a good idea to address the cause before looking for a cure. Dark circles can strike seemingly at random, but there are a handful of common reasons you might be experiencing them.
Allergies
Seasonal allergies, like hay fever, can contribute towards puffy eyes and dark circles. While it’s hard to avoid the causes, over-the-counter medication can help stave off any effects that pesky pollen might have on you. A gluten allergy or intolerance can also cause dark circles, but talk to your doctor before deciding to cut out wheat altogether.
Stress
Your skin is the best indicator of anxiety, so if you find yourself with dark circles and you realise you’re not sleeping properly or getting enough time to relax, stress could be the cause. It may be easier said than done, but taking aside some moments to chill out and look after yourself will prove invaluable – and will also reflect in your face.
Best Cover Ups for Dark Circles
1. Concealer for Dark Circles
When it comes to eliminating dark circles, concealer should be an early port of call – and can prove a lifesaver if you need a quick fix. Apply under your eye using a concealer brush for precision. It’s best to leave application until after you’ve applied your eye make-up, so as not to catch any eyeshadow fallout.
2. Moisturiser for Dark Circles
By keeping your skin hydrated, moisturisers help to reduce dark circles by thickening up that delicate under-eye skin and penetrating deep to get to the root cause of the problem. Cleanse thoroughly – and don’t forget to use toner to get rid of excess oils and dirt – then gently apply some moisturiser to the offending areas. Make this a regular part of your beauty routine and your dark circles should soon be a thing of the past.
Sienna X The Eye Cream, 15ml
Sienna X The Eye Cream, 15ml
- • Rejuvenates
- • Moisturises and firms
- • 82% Natural
- • Fragranced with green tea extract
- • Vegan friendly
3. Eye Serums
There are plenty of products out there aimed at precisely this problem. A good eye serum will see you right – look for one that is rich in Vitamin E, as the essential fatty acids work towards helping your skin to get plumper and more hydrated. Be sure to apply it once a day to bid farewell to dark circles.
Sienna X The Retinol Serum, 20ml
Sienna X The Retinol Serum, 20ml
- • Reduced signs of ageing
- • Boosts collagen & brightens skin
- • 97% Natural
- • Fragranced with green tea extract
- • Vegan friendly
Dark Circle Treatment
1. Cucumber
Cucumbers have astringent properties – they can cause the contraction of skin cells, which is just what we want to banish dark circles! Cut a couple of thick slices of chilled cucumber, then pop them over your eyes for about 10 minutes. If you do this two or three times a week, after a fortnight you’ll notice reduced swelling and darkness.
2. Coconut Oil
The miracle-working effects of coconut oil are praised far and wide. It works similarly to moisturiser when it comes to plumping up fragile skin, with the added bonus that you can apply it all over your body for smooth skin. For dark circle treatment, however, massage it on the area, leave for a few hours, and then wash thoroughly.
3. Tea Bags
The caffeine and antioxidants in tea are great for reducing water retention under the eye, as well as shrinking the blood vessels which cause dark circles in the first place. Just chill a couple of green or black tea bags in water for 30 minutes, then place one on each eye for 10 minutes. Rinse fully when you’re done to avoid any unwanted tea stains!
Our top recommended products for dark circles
Our top recommended products for dark circles
Looking for some help to banish those eye-bags? See our range of Face Masks & Treatments. Want more helpful tips and advice? Check out for advice from the experts with Beauty by You articles