Whether they're brown, blue, or even hollow, dark circles under the eyes can take various forms. Fatigue, lack of sleep, smoking, alcohol... there are many reasons that can cause them. Here, we provide some tips to combat dark circles and wake up with a fresh look.
Our tips for a fresh, circle-free gaze upon waking.
Summary
Published on October 4, 2024, by Pauline, Chemical Engineer — 6 min of reading
Themes:
A good night's sleep.
To combat dark circles, the first factor to consider is sleep. Indeed, it governs numerous biological mechanisms, such as concentration, well-being, but also skin health. When we are tired following a poor night's sleep, it is common to see dark circles or bags under the eyes. The most natural way to avoid them is to get enough sleep, at least 8 hours per night, the duration recommended by doctors.
Using cold to combat dark circles.
Cold is a significant ally against dark circles as it helps to reactivate blood circulation as well as that of the lymphatic tissues, which reduces signs of fatigue. Therefore, if you notice that you have dark circles or bags under your eyes upon waking, apply a cold water compress to each eye for a few minutes. It is also possible to apply ice cubes wrapped in a clean cloth to the eye contour. However, be careful not to apply the ice cubes directly to the skin, as this could cause a burn. Another tip is to place teaspoons in the refrigerator the night before. This way, they will be nice and cold the next morning and will help to decongest your eyes.
Massage the area around the eyes.
To alleviate dark circles upon waking, gentle circular massages can help. Indeed, these can stimulate blood circulation and improve the drainage of toxins and blood pigments. Massaging this area also allows for a gentle awakening and has a decongesting effect. To do this, start from the brow bone and make circles up to the temples, passing through the orbital hollow of the eye. Then lightly pinch the skin in this area before tapping it.
Protecting one's eyes from the sun during the day.
Whilst it is pleasant and a source of vitamin D, the sun is an adversary to the skin, promoting the appearance of wrinkles and also brown circles. These latter form following the stimulation of melanogenesis by UV rays, which can cause hyperpigmentation, particularly in the delicate area around the eyes. To combat this phenomenon and avoid circles upon waking, it is recommended to apply daily and generously a broad-spectrum sun protection. Do not hesitate to also wear sunglasses, which have a dual action: they limit the appearance of brown circles while protecting your eyes. Indeed, when looking at the sun without protection, there is a risk of corneal inflammation, resulting in a burning sensation.
Avoid tobacco smoke.
Smoking leads to premature ageing of the facial skin and promotes the appearance of dark circles or wrinkles. Indeed, it is estimated thata puff of cigarette releases about 200,000 free radicals, the same reactive species generated in the body following high sun exposure. These can damage DNA, attack cell membranes and cause skin disorders, such as hyperpigmentation. Therefore, to limit the appearance of brown circles upon waking, it is better to avoid tobacco smoke.
Apply specific treatments.
The bi-daily application of an "eye contour" product is a practice that helps combat the onset of dark circles. These treatments are specifically formulated for the sensitive area of the lower eyelid and have undergone ophthalmological tests before being introduced to the cosmetic market. Taking the form of a gel, serum or cream, eye contour treatments are often appreciated for their soothing, hydrating and draining virtues.
How to choose a skincare product for the eye contour?
The selection of an eye contour treatment is based on your concerns. In the case of dark circles, a treatment is chosen according to the type of dark circles:
For vascular dark circles : treatments based on caffeine or cornflower hydrosol are recommended for blue dark circles. These active ingredients work on blood circulation and stimulate it, thus improving the drainage of waste and blood pigments. At Typology, we have developed a caffeine eye serum, to be used twice a day. Combined with a healthy lifestyle, the first results on vascular dark circles can be observed after four weeks of use.
For dark circles caused by pigmentation : to combat this type of dark circles, the aim is to lighten or depigment the area. Therefore, rely on vitamin C, niacinamide, or even ferulic acid, ingredients capable of inhibiting the melanin transfer mechanism.
For structural dark circles : it is difficult to diminish these once they have set in. Therefore, it is better to prevent them by hydrating the eye contour. Treatments containing hyaluronic acid, aloe vera or witch hazel hydrosol are recommended for this purpose.
Tip : if you still wake up with dark circles under your eyes, you can quickly and effectively conceal them by using a concealer that matches your skin tone.
Sources
CESTARI T. & al. What causes dark circles under the eyes? Journal of cosmetic dermatology (2007).
GRANDO S. & al. Smoking and the skin. International journal of dermatology (2012).
