7 tips to get rid of dark eye circles, & what Chinese medicine says about them
Dark circles under the eyes often result from various factors such as insufficient sleep, chronic stress, hormonal changes, diet, or genetics. In Chinese medicine, these dark shadows are seen as a reflection of internal imbalances.
Dark circles under the eyes often result from various factors such as insufficient sleep, chronic stress, hormonal changes, diet, or genetics. In Chinese medicine, these dark shadows are seen as a reflection of internal imbalances.
The bluish circles, often called vascular dark circles, occur due to thinning skin that reveals blood vessels beneath and are more visible with age. Meanwhile, brownish circles, or pigmented types, are linked to excess melanin production and may be hereditary.
Nutritional deficiencies, such as a lack of vitamin K or antioxidants, can also contribute to their appearance. Addressing these concerns holistically through better sleep, stress management, a balanced diet, and targeted skincare can help minimize dark circles.
Dark eye-circles and Chinese medicine
Chinese medicine views dark circles under the eyes as a reflection of imbalances in the body, often associated with kidney and adrenal function. According to the 5-element theory, the kidneys are linked to the color black, There are multiple possibilities for dark under-eyes:
Kidney deficiency (could be equated to adrenal fatigue)
Qi and blood deficiency (general fatigue and lack of rest)
Qi and blood stagnation (poor circulation)
Allergies (see below)
Your acupuncturist can identify the specific root cause of your dark circles and develop a personalized treatment plan using tailored herbal formulas and therapies to restore balance and improve overall health.
You can give yourself Jade rolling treatments, facial Gua Sha massages, and self-acupressure on the points around the eyes, on the eyebrows, and near the sinuses.
These three methods aim to increase blood flow and improve lymphatic drainage.
1. Use Caffeine
Caffeine is known for its ability to constrict blood vessels, reducing their visibility beneath the thin, delicate skin under the eyes. This makes it an effective ingredient for diminishing the appearance of dark circles. You can benefit from caffeine either by consuming it—though moderation is key, especially for those who are pregnant or trying to conceive—or by applying it topically. Many under-eye creams and serums incorporate caffeine to help de-puff and brighten the under-eye area, offering a targeted solution for this common concern.
2. Play with Cold Compresses
Just like caffeine, cold has a vasoconstrictor effect, helping to reduce the appearance of dark circles and puffiness. You can use dedicated cold eye bags or even a spoon that’s been left in the fridge overnight for a quick solution. For an added benefit, we recommend keeping jade rollers or Gua Sha boards in the fridge, as the cold temperature enhances the tightening effect when applied to the skin.
Cold cucumber slices also work wonders—cucumber contains ascorbic and caffeic acid, which help reduce water retention and soothe the under-eye area, leaving you with a refreshed look.
3. Address Allergies
Allergies can be a major contributor to dark circles under the eyes. The constant itching and rubbing of the eyes can damage the fragile skin around them, making blood vessels more visible and exacerbating puffiness. Managing allergies not only reduces discomfort but also helps prevent further irritation to the sensitive under-eye area, leading to clearer and brighter skin.
Over-the-counter anti-allergy eye wipes and drops can provide quick relief, but for a more long-term solution, your acupuncturist can help address your body’s reactivity and balance with tailored herbal treatments.
3. Protect Your Skin from Sun Damage
The skin around your eyes is particularly sensitive and vulnerable to sun damage, which can worsen dark circles over time. Wearing sunglasses with 100% UV protection (often labeled as UV400) not only safeguards your eyes from harmful rays but also protects the delicate skin surrounding them.
Additionally, daily application of sunscreen is essential, and don’t forget to apply it gently around the eyes. Consistent sun protection helps prevent pigmentation and aging signs, ensuring the skin around your eyes stays healthy and less prone to dark circles.
5. Moisturize Your Skin and Skip Makeup
If you’re accustomed to using foundation or concealer, make sure to remove your makeup gently at the end of the day with a mild makeup remover. Alternatively, consider skipping makeup altogether to give your skin a break.
The skin around your eyes is particularly sensitive and vulnerable to sun damage, which can worsen dark circles over time. Wearing sunglasses with 100% UV protection (often labeled as UV400) not only safeguards your eyes from harmful rays but also protects the delicate skin surrounding them.
Additionally, daily application of sunscreen is essential, and don’t forget to apply it gently around the eyes. Consistent sun protection helps prevent pigmentation and aging signs, ensuring the skin around your eyes stays healthy and less prone to dark circles.
6. Get more sleep!
One of the most effective ways to reduce dark circles is to ensure you’re getting enough rest. Aim for 7 to 9 hours of quality sleep each night to prevent adrenal fatigue and allow your body to repair and rejuvenate. Sleep helps regulate blood flow, reduces puffiness, and supports overall skin health. By prioritizing your rest, you’ll not only feel more energized but also notice a significant improvement in the appearance of your under-eye area.
7. Genetics…
Sometimes, despite all your efforts, dark circles may persist due to genetics. If the skin around your eyes remains naturally darker or more transparent, it could be due to inherited traits. In such cases, it might be worth consulting a dermatologist about treatments like dermal fillers, which can thicken the skin under the eyes and reduce the visibility of blood vessels.
Pulsed light therapy is another option that targets pigmentation and stimulates collagen production to improve skin appearance. These professional treatments can offer a more long-term solution for those with persistent dark circles caused by genetics.
Talk to your acupuncturist and book a session for a complete assessment!