Dark circles underneath the eyes may make you look tired, but these circles are not usually caused by fatigue, says the Mayo Clinic. Instead, dark circles under the eyes are often caused by allergies or sinus congestion. Dark circles under the eyes are not usually medically serious and do not require a doctor’s care.
Cold Compress
Applying a cold compress to enlarged blood vessels underneath the eyes may be effective in reducing dark circles under the eyes, says Eric Donnenfeld, M.D., associate professor of ophthalmology at North Shore University Hospital/Cornell Medical College in Manhasset, New York. Place a handful of ice cubes in a washcloth, then place the washcloth over your eyes for 10 minutes. Additionally, you can wet a washcloth or towel with cold water and place them over your eyes for 10 minutes. The cold temperature will shrink the blood vessels, making the under-eye area appear brighter.
Saline Nasal Spray
Spray a saline solution up your nose to clear nasal congestion and reduce dark circles, suggests the Mayo Clinic. Mix a 1/4 tsp. sea salt with 2 cups of warm water, then pour the solution into an empty nasal spray bottle. Sniff to distribute the solution into the nasal passages, then blow your nose. Repeat every few hours until your nasal congestion has cleared. You can also purchase over-the-counter saline solution at the drugstore.
Address Allergens
Allergies may cause the sinuses to become inflamed, which enlarges the blood vessels and causes dark circles underneath the eyes. To permanently reduce dark circles, determine the cause of your allergies and avoid these triggers. If you’re not sure what is causing your allergic reaction, consult an allergist for an allergy test. Common allergens include pollen, pet dander, dust, milk and wheat.
