Let's face it: dark circles are annoying! Besides giving us an unwanted fragile outlook, it is much more difficult to have the perfect makeup with them around. The usual suspect for having dark circles would of course be a lack of sleep, but there are also a few other causes. What's more, differing colors of dark circles happen for different reasons and each asks for specific remedies. So, which kind do you have?
Blueish Dark Circles
Blueish dark circles, also known as vascular dark circles, happen due to the slow microcirculation of blood and lymphatic fluid around the eyes. Lack of sleep is usually the cause of the blood being less oxygenated and accumulated underneath the eyes. However, this is the least worrying type as it is easiest to overcome. People with blueish dark eye circles can apply warm and cold towels alternately around the eyes to promote blood flow. Repeat this for 10 minutes, exchanging between the two about 5 times every minute. Besides that, massaging around the eyes such as in the corners, the temples and the center of the eyebrows also helps improve blood circulation.
Brownish Dark Circles
Brownish dark circles happen due to excess pigmentation, hence it is also known as pigmented dark circles. This can happen for a number of reasons, from sun damage, to improper or incomplete makeup removal, to just rubbing your eyes too often. All these causes an overproduction of melanin which results in a dark brown coloring around the eyes. To treat and prevent this, be sure to pay attention to sun exposure and practice sun protection such as applying sunblock more often. Taking in more Vitamin C or using skincare products that contain such active ingredients also help fight pigmented dark circles.
Blackish Dark Circles
Blackish dark circles or structured dark circles comes with old age, weakened muscles or fatigue. This affects the elasticity of the skin, causing it to thin and sag. The thinning of skin around the eyes causes blood vessels to be more visible while the sagging forms grooves and shadows, completing the dark eye circles. Those suffering from this form of dark circles can try doing facial exercises, especially around the eyes to prevent continued degradation of the muscles. Some massaging of the scalp also improves facial blood circulation and helps repair muscle elasticity. Although structured dark circles are generally found in older men and women, young people should also work to prevent or delay its effects.
One last thing...how do you tell which type you have?
Blueish Dark Circles: Pull down on your bottom eyelids, the dark circles will look faded.
Blackish Dark Circles: Put your head up towards light, the dark circles will look faded.
Brownish Dark Circles: Neither of the above methods causes dark circles to look faded.
Remember, it's not just about skincare products, keeping the right diet with vegetables and fruits full of vitamins is equally important to keep your skin bright and glowing!
