We’ve all been there…even under the age of 30, well hydrated and with enough sleep…we look in the mirror in the morning and see the eyes of an OLD, TIRED woman looking back!

CAUSES

Genetics are the #1 reason.

If you inherit fair or thin skin under the eyes, it’s more obvious when blood pools there (especially with slower circulation from lack of sleep).

This accumulation causes fragile capillaries to stretch and leak.

If you inherit darker skin (East Indian or Middle Eastern genetics), the actual structure of the orbital socket often causes restricted circulation around the eyes leading to blood pooling under the eyes and the appearance of dark circles.

Age is another factor. Over time, skin loses collagen and elasticity, becoming thinner, so veins show through more prominently. UV exposure (esp. sunbathing) speeds up this process by breaking down collagen and triggering uneven skin colouration.

Seasonal allergies are to blame for many people. They trigger the release of histamines in the body, which in turn causes inflammation and swelling of blood vessels and puffiness under the eyes.

Sleeping with your makeup on! Take the extra 3 minutes at night to remove your makeup! Use an eye-makeup remover or good quality cleanser that doesn’t irritate your eyes. Lather in circles for a good minute (including your lashes and lash line), and rinse…voila!!

It’s worth it, and your skin and eyes will thank you.

HOW TO TREAT THEM

If your circles are the result of vascular issues, (or genetics) you can try to double up on pillows at night to stop blood from building up under your eyes. In the morning, apply a cold compress for about five minutes to constrict the blood vessels.

Use an eye cream with lightening properties like: Kojic Acid, Licorice Root, L-Arbutin, and Vitamin K & C (I like DermaMD’s “Eliminate”; it’s amazing).

For Anti-Aging benefits try peptides like: Argirelene, Palmitoyl-Oligopeptide and Retinol and skin tightening ingredients like: Marine Polypeptides, Matrixyl 3000. (DermaMD’s Eye Lifting & Tightening Serum is wonderful; and for an eye cream that does Everything…try DermaMD’s Peptide Eye Cream! – this one actually targets puffiness too with additional peptides.)

For allergy-induced circles, consider taking an over-the-counter antihistamine before allergies really kick-in, so you’re not trying to combat red, itchy, swollen, dark eyes after the rubbing has started!

For dark circle camouflage, apply eye cream and let it dry for a few minutes. Then pat on a creamy concealer that matches your skin tone. Top with a layer of loose or pressed powder, which helps set your makeup and prevents it from caking in creases.

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Glowingly Yours,

Iris