Best way to deal with dark circles

We love our eyes as much as we love ourselves for that is the point of attraction in the face. Eyes are important in the sense that even while communicating it`s important to make an eye contact. So we do take great care of our eyes.

No wonder then there are innumerable products to enhance the beauty of the eyes. Mascara, eyeliners, artificial eye lashes, makeup colours no makes your eyes more attractive. But should you have dark circles under your eyes, then chances are that none of the above products can help you. Dark circles make you look tired and pale.

Causes: Though many believe they can be hereditary, there`s no conclusive evidence as such. Lack of sleep, mental stress, lifestyle habits, bad diet can contribute to dark circles. Whatever be the reason, it`s best to work on the problem before it aggravates.

Here are a few tips to deal with dark circles:
- Massage Vitamin E or almond oil around the eyes without touching the eyes (massage must strictly be external). This improves blood circulation.
- As a quick fix during parties, use a makeup concealer to hide the dark circle. But remember this is only a temporary solution.
- Get a lot of sleep. Sleeplessness is a culprit for most health problems. Have a set routine and have regular sleep timing. Make sure you get at least 8 hours of sleep.
- Drink lots of water. For anything related to health, water is still the best beverage.
- Grate raw potato, squeeze the juice and apply the juice under your eyes for 10 minutes. Alternatively, you can also place thin slices of potato on your eyes (with them closed) every night before you retire. This is one of the most popular and time-tested home remedies for dark circles.
- Include a lot of green leafy veggies in your diet. Also include food rich in Vitamin A and E.
- Indulge in some kind of exercise like walking, jogging. Yoga, especially pranayama is known to improve skin health.
- Take two thin slices of cucumber and place them on your eyes. This removes the puffiness and cools the eyes
- Dip cotton in rose water and place them on your eyes.
- Reduce salt intake in your food. Excess salt encourages fluid retention and leads to puffy eyes.
- The area under your eyes has very sensitive skin, so never use chemical bleach.
- You can also place used tea bag (cold) on your eyes which helps lessen the darkness
- Avoid exposing your skin to harsh rays of the sun. Especially for the eyes, wear sunglasses whenever you step out in the sun.

BDST: 1246 HRS, SEP-13, 2012
Edited by: Sharmina Islam, Lifestyle Editor