Dark circles and bags under the eyes can make you appear older, fatigued and unhealthy. According to MedRounds Publications, under-eye circles can be caused by genetics, allergens, poor health and even medications. The dark circles are created when the blood vessels below the eyes become dilated or when congestion puts pressure on the blood vessels. Bags under the eyes, however, can be caused by poor skin elasticity, excessive salt intake and pollutants, such as smoke. Getting rid of bags and dark circles under the eyes involves regulating inflammation and fluid retention, as well as constricting the blood vessels.
- Skill level:
- Moderate
Instructions
Things you need
- Rice pillow or gel mask
- Cucumber slices, chilled
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1
Reduce fluid retention. According to Phyllis Balch's book "Prescription for Nutritional Healing," it is important to reduce your consumption of salt, if it is very high, and avoid eating foods that contain monosodium glutamate. Additionally, avoid drinking water and other fluids immediately before going to sleep.
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2
Avoid allergens and pollutants, which can irritate the mucous membranes and cause swelling and blood vessel dilation. It also encourages eye scratching and rubbing, which can cause further irritation.
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3
Get plenty of rest. Lack of sleep can cause eye strain and fatigue. Adequate sleep also improves your body's overall health and functioning, leading to better eye health.
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4
Apply a rice pillow or gel eye mask for soothing benefits. Refrigerate the rice pillow or gel mask for about an hour. Once it is thoroughly chilled, lay it across your eyes to reduce swelling and constrict blood vessels.
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5
Use a plant-based compress, such as applying cold cucumber slices to the eyes for 15 minutes. The cucumbers soothe the eyes, while the cold helps to shrink the blood vessels.
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6
Apply a hot compress to the eyes. If your allergies have caused dry eyes or blocked eye glands, a hot compress can relieve symptoms of discomfort and help to loosen dried oils and fluids in the ducts. Heat an eye pillow in the microwave until it is hot but won't burn your skin and apply to your eyes for five minutes, twice daily.
Tips and warnings
- Eat a healthy diet to improve overall eye health.
- For bags under the eyes, choose eye creams that improve skin elasticity.
- Colds and sinus infections can cause swelling and dark under eye circles.
- Contact your eye doctor if you have unusual swelling or discomfort in or around your eyes.
