Dark circles, AKA the bane of our existence! Although genetics can play a significant role in developing dark circles, there are still ways to minimize their appearance through a healthy lifestyle, proper skincare, and adequate sleep.

What Causes Dark Circles Under the Eyes?

Blue or purple under eyes are pretty common and caused by numerous factors:

Genetics: The Hand You're Dealt

Believe it or not, your genetic makeup plays a significant role in whether you are prone to dark circles. If your parents or close relatives have them, there's a higher chance you may inherit this trait. Genetics can influence the thickness of the skin under your eyes, as well as the distribution of blood vessels and pigmentation.

Aging: The Culprit Behind Collagen Loss

As we age, our skin undergoes several changes, one of which is the gradual loss of collagen and elasticity. This can lead to the thinning of the skin under the eyes, making blood vessels more visible and giving rise to the appearance of dark circles. Additionally, as we get older, the fat pads that cushion the eyes may shift or diminish – not to mention, the under eye is the thinnest skin on the body!

Blood Circulation: The Circulatory Conundrum

Poor blood circulation in the under-eye area can result in blood pooling and stagnation. When blood vessels become congested, they can appear more prominent through the thin skin. Factors such as lifestyle choices (dietary, alcohol consumption, dehydration), inadequate sleep, and certain medical conditions can contribute to impaired blood flow.

Allergies and Irritants: The Itchy, Watery Eyes Connection

If you frequently suffer from allergies or use skincare products that irritate your eyes, you may be inadvertently contributing to the development of dark circles. Allergies can lead to itching, rubbing, and excessive eye-rubbing, which can break small blood vessels and worsen the appearance of dark circles.

Sun Exposure: The Harmful Effects of UV Rays

Excessive sun exposure can accelerate the breakdown of collagen and elastin in the skin, leading to premature aging and the development of dark circles. Protecting your delicate under-eye skin from harmful UV rays is crucial in preventing their formation.

How to Get Rid of Eye Bags

Bags under the eyes, AKA under-eye bags, can be a source of frustration for many. These puffy, swollen areas beneath the eyes can make us appear tired and older than we feel, but don’t fret! Knowledge is power, and there are ways to treat under eye bags, besides going under the knife or with injections.

Bags under eyes causes:

Aging: The Inevitable Culprit

As we age, the tissues and muscles supporting the delicate skin around the eyes can weaken, leading to the sagging and protrusion commonly associated with eye bags. This natural aging process can cause fat deposits in the area to redistribute and push forward, creating a noticeable bulge beneath the eyes.

Genetics: The Family Connection

Genetics can play a significant role in whether you are prone to developing eye bags. If your parents or close relatives have them, there's a higher likelihood that you may inherit this trait. The genetic makeup of your skin and underlying structures can influence how your eyes age and whether you are predisposed to puffiness.

Fluid Retention: The Swelling Effect

Excess fluid retention in the tissues around the eyes can result in temporary puffiness, giving the appearance of eye bags. Several factors can contribute to fluid retention, including dietary choices, allergies, hormone fluctuations, and lifestyle habits. Sodium-rich foods, alcohol, and inadequate sleep are common culprits.

Allergies: The Itchy, Watery Eyes Connection

Frequent allergies can lead to inflammation and irritation in the eye area, causing puffiness and swelling. Allergic reactions can prompt rubbing and scratching, which may worsen the condition and exacerbate the appearance of eye bags.

Avoid Sleeping on Your Stomach

The position of sleeping on your stomach can lead to fluid accumulation in the under-eye area. When you lie flat on your stomach, fluids can pool in the lower eyelids, causing puffiness and swelling. This is especially noticeable in the morning and can contribute to under-eye bags.

At Home Remedies

Cooling Cucumber Slices

Cucumber slices have long been a go-to remedy for reducing puffiness. Chill a cucumber in the refrigerator for a while, then cut it into thin slices. Place these cool slices over your closed eyelids and relax for about 15 minutes. Cucumbers contain antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties that can help soothe and refresh the delicate under-eye area.

Tea Bag Compress

Used tea bags, particularly green tea or chamomile, can work wonders for reducing puffiness and dark circles. After steeping your tea, allow the tea bags to cool down in the refrigerator. Place one tea bag over each closed eye and leave them in place for 10-15 minutes. The caffeine in tea can constrict blood vessels and reduce puffiness, while the antioxidants provide a soothing effect.

Aloe Vera Gel

Aloe vera gel is renowned for its soothing and anti-inflammatory properties. Apply a small amount of pure aloe vera gel to the under-eye area and gently massage it in. Leave it on for 10-15 minutes before rinsing with cool water. Aloe vera can help reduce puffiness and provide hydration to the skin.

Cold Compress

A simple cold compress can work wonders in reducing puffiness. Soak a clean washcloth in cold water and wring out the excess. Place the cold compress over your closed eyes for 10-15 minutes. The cold temperature can help constrict blood vessels and reduce swelling.

Hydrate and Elevate

Staying hydrated is essential to maintain healthy skin. Make sure you drink plenty of water throughout the day. Additionally, when you sleep, elevate your head with an extra pillow to prevent fluid accumulation in the under-eye area, which can contribute to puffiness.

MIRACO Beauty Treatments for Face and Under Eye Dark Circle 

S-Cell Super Serum

Pseudoalteromonas Ferment Extract - As the under eye is the thinnest skin on the entire body, this glycoprotein is crucial to preventing wrinkles around the eye. When the skin is properly hydrated, it appears plump and healthy, creating a more radiant complexion. A study shows this glycoprotein decreasing the depth of wrinkles by 44% around the eyes.

CoQ10, coenzyme Q10, or Ubiquinone - A naturally produced enzyme that’s found in every cell of the human body and plays a key role in the transportation of energy production. CoQ10 also neutralizes free radicals, by building up antioxidants (vitamin c, retinol) with power for maximum protection. Not to mention, it also blocks the production of melanin to prevent dark spots.

Licorice Root Extract - Well-known for its skin-brightening properties, particularly in addressing hyperpigmentation and dark spots. The active compound in licorice root, called glabridin, inhibits the production of melanin.

Gardenia Jasminoides Extract - An antioxidant that naturally contains ferulic acid, which brightens the skin and helps protect the skin barrier.

AHAS (malic acid, tartaric acid, citric acid, lactic acid, glycolic acid) - AHAs are exfoliating agents that work by removing dead skin cells from the surface of the skin. They improve skin texture by removing dull and discolored skin cells.