Dark circles under the eyes can be a frustrating and common cosmetic concern for many people. While they are not necessarily a health concern, they can make a person feel self-conscious and tired-looking.

Fortunately, there are many tips and tricks to help improve the appearance of dark circles and give a bright-eyed look. Below are some of the best methods for banishing those dark circles.

1. Get Enough Sleep

One of the most common reasons for dark circles is a lack of sleep. When a person does not get enough sleep, it can cause the blood vessels under the eyes to dilate, making the area appear darker.

Getting enough sleep can help to reduce the appearance of dark circles. Experts recommend that adults aim for 7-9 hours of sleep per night.

2. Stay Hydrated

Dehydration can also contribute to the appearance of dark circles. When the body is dehydrated, it can cause the skin to become dull and the blood vessels under the eyes to appear more prominent.

Drinking enough water throughout the day can help keep the skin hydrated and reduce the look of dark circles.

3. Use Cold Compresses

Another way to reduce the appearance of dark circles is by using cold compresses.

Applying a cold compress, such as a damp washcloth or chilled cucumber slices, to the eyes can help to constrict the blood vessels and reduce swelling around the eyes, making the area look brighter and less puffy.

4. Apply Eye Cream

Using a specially-formulated eye cream can also help to improve the appearance of dark circles.

Eye creams that contain ingredients like vitamin K, caffeine, or retinol can help to reduce puffiness and inflammation around the eyes, making the area look brighter and more refreshed. For best results, apply the eye cream twice per day, in the morning and before bed.

5. Wear Sunscreen

Exposure to the sun’s harmful rays can also contribute to the appearance of dark circles. UV damage can cause the skin to produce more melanin, which can make the area around the eyes look darker.

Wearing sunscreen with at least SPF 30 can help to protect the delicate skin around the eyes and reduce the risk of dark circles.

6. Use Color Correcting Makeup

If other methods are not effective, using color-correcting makeup can help to camouflage the appearance of dark circles. Orange or peach-colored concealers can help to counteract the bluish tint of dark circles.

Apply a small amount of color-correcting concealer to the under-eye area and blend well before applying regular concealer and foundation.

7. Reduce Salt Intake

High intake of salt can cause the body to retain water, which can contribute to puffiness around the eyes and make dark circles look more prominent.

To reduce the appearance of dark circles, aim to reduce salt intake by avoiding processed foods and adding more fresh fruits and vegetables to the diet.

8. Massage the Under-Eye Area

Gently massaging the under-eye area can help to increase blood flow and reduce swelling, which can make the area around the eyes look brighter and more awake.

Use gentle, circular motions with the ring finger to massage the under-eye area for a few minutes each day.

9. Get Allergies Under Control

Allergies can also contribute to the appearance of dark circles. An allergic reaction can cause swelling and inflammation, making the under-eye area look darker.

Getting allergies under control, through allergy medication or avoiding allergens, can help to reduce the appearance of dark circles.

10. Consider Cosmetic Treatments

If other methods do not work, cosmetic treatments such as dermal fillers or laser therapy can help to improve the appearance of dark circles.

Dermal fillers can help to plump up the under-eye area and reduce the look of dark circles, while laser therapy can help to stimulate collagen production and reduce pigmentation around the eyes.