Many of us suffer from dark circles under the eyes. These black rings make us look exhausted and ill. They are very obvious and annoying. They are difficult to cover up and even harder to get rib of. In short, they are the bane of many people's lives.

"When you have big dark half-moons under your eyes, an objective observer is likely to guess your age as 8-12 years older than without those undereye blemishes. Dark circles make you look older, tired, stressed, sick, depressed and just plain bad.

"The best way to prevent dark circles under the eyes is to eat, drink and sleep well, reduce stress and combat fatigue,".

COMMON CAUSES

Thinning skin

The skin under the eyes is thin and delicate to begin with. As we age, skin and the fat pad under the eyes becomes thinner, causing blood vessels to become noticeable. This gives the appearace of dark circles. Sun damage can make it worse because it weakens skin.

Allergies

Dark circles under the eyes can be the result of allergies to airborne substances, such as pollen and dust, because people rub their itchy eyes. Food allergies or sensitivities can also contribute to dark circles.

Genetics

Dark circles under the eyes runs in families. They tend to be more noticeable in people with fair skin or deep-set eyes.

Fluid Retention

Blood vessels under the eyes can become dilated and puffy, which can contribute to dark circles. Excess dietary salt and smoking are common causes.

Lack of sleep

Lack of sleep can make skin appear more pale, which allows blood vessels to be more visible throught the skin, giving the appearance of dark circles.

Iron Deficiency Anaemia

Iron deficiency anaemia may cause a bluish tinge below the eyes.

Dehydration

Dark circles under the eyes can be a sign of dehydration.

REMEDIES

Some home remedies that may help to temporarily diminish the appearance of dark circles under the eyes, and prevent dark circles from worsening.

1. Be sure to drink enough water.

2. Wear sunscreen with a minimum of SPF 30 under the eyes to prevent skin weakening caused by sun damage.

3. Get plenty of rest.

4. Apply plain cool teabags over closed eyes. Don't use herbal teabags, because most aren't as effective.

5. Apply cool cucumber slices over closed eyes for 15 minutes.

6. Be careful not to consume too much dietary salt.

7. Apply vitamin K cream. Although studies haven't looked at the use of topical vitamin K for dark circles under the eyes, preliminary studies under have found that vitamin K may help with bruising.

8. Certain foods, such as cranberries, blueberries, bilberries, tea (green and black), black currant, onions, legumes, and parsley also contain these antioxidant pigments.

9. Grate a raw potato and wrap it in cloth. Put it onto the eyelids for about 15 to 20 minutes and then rinse it well with warm water.

10. Make a mixture of one teaspoon of lemon juice and one teaspoon of tomato juice. Apply it on the black circles around the eyes two times a day. It lightens the circle.

11. Apply crushed mint around the eyes to lighten the dark undereye circles.

12. Apply a concealer to the area under your eyes, to hide dark circles.

13. Use a colour that is slightly lighter than the shade of your skin. Apply the concealer gently; do not stretch or pull the skin from this delicate area.

14. Lie down, close your eyes and apply cucumber or potato slices to your eyelids.

15. Leaven on for 10 minutes and remove. Wash the area with cold water. This soothes tired eyes instantly, and helps boost blood circulation in the undereye area.