How to Cure Your Dark Circles
July 10, 2008

Our eyes have had it…and they're revolting! The all-nighters and partying started the rebellion. Then the children came, along with many a sleepless night. Add to that the aging process, genetics, and deficiencies in our diet and what you see in the mirror is an appearance that's older than it looks. Yes, those tired, puffy or dark under eye circles have wreaked havoc on our (once youthful) looks.

Yes, we've heard about the natural options to cure the raccoon effect…cucumber slices or tea bags on the eyes. But, what happens if you feel you need stronger alternatives. How do you know what works?

If your dark circles are genetic, then over the counter creams most likely will not work for you. You'll have a more difficult time finding a product that will provide the results you desire. There is an over-saturation of eye creams on the market and, the majority of them don't work (even the really expensive ones).

For serious dark circles, there are several products that claim to be very effective. Hylexin and Hydrolyze, two newer products on the market, both assert that they can diminish severe under eye circles. Hylexin has gotten negative reviews, with many consumers alleging the product did not work for them. Hydrolyze's reviews have been somewhat better; however, the truth remains that finding the eye cream that offers real improvement can be a shot in the dark.

Even when deciding to visit a dermatologist to address tired-looking eyes, you may find that you need to do more homework before accepting their recommendations. For example, hydroquinone, which has been in some over-the-counter ointments for years, can be prescribed by a doctor in stronger doses. Yet, hydroquinone has long been linked to cancer. Kojic acid, another popular ingredient in skin lighteners, also has carcinogenic properties.

Another cosmetic alternative offered by doctors involves laser treatments to diminish eye circles. But this too remains somewhat controversial, as lasers that close to the eye can cause damage or may not be right for darker skin tones.

So, what's the best recommendation to improve the appearance of weary-looking peepers. First, you have to identify what's causing the dark circles. Realize that anything that is going on with you internally will show itself externally.

Dark circles can come from anemia, or even from the kidney or liver needing detoxification, along with many other possible causes. Rather than covering up or trying to externally correct tired-looking eyes, the underlying cause(s) should be explored. So, while treatments like cucumbers or eye creams offer relief, the best plan of action remains to find where the real cause lies. Getting a diagnosis from a naturopathic doctor may be a great starting point. 

Even though getting to the root of under eye circles can feel like a maze, know that you can reverse the appearance of weary eyes. And, finding the cause and permanent cure always is be better than covering it up.