Dark circles under the eyes are one of the most common beauty problems for women. Treating this problem can be difficult, but not impossible. The skin around the eye area is very sensitive, so it is important to treat the area in a way that will not make the problem worse. Understanding the different types of dark circle eye problems and their possible sources can help women with treatment and with covering them up. Treatment can involve a variety of products; however, finding the best treatment and concealer is often a challenge.
Treating Dark Circles Under Eyes
The first step in the battle against dark under eye circles is to incorporate eye treatments in the daily beauty regimen. Women can start this process by identifying the types of circles that appear under the eyes. The circles are usually blue/purple or brown in color. According to Courtney Sullivan in the April 2010 issue of Allure, circles that are blue or purple in color are often caused by the appearance of blood vessels. Furthermore, brown circles are related to sun exposure. The aging process, allergies, and not getting enough sleep can magnify either problem. The following treatments are recommended for both problems:
- Blue circles can be treated with an eye cream with retinol and Vitamin K
- Brown circles can be treated with products that contain hydroquinone, a bleaching agent and Vitamin C
The eye treatment should be applied with the ring finger, which is less likely to damage the sensitive skin under the eyes. Apply a small amount of cream to the finger and start at the inner corner under the lashes. Continue the application until the outer corner of the under eye is reached (where the crow's feet are).
Hiding Under Eye Dark Circles
The next step is to hide the dark circles with concealer. Allure gives the following tips when working with using concealer for the eyes:
- Use a creamy concealer
- Always choose a concealer color that is similar to the skin tone
- For blue circles, use a yellow-based shade
- For brown circles, use a peach-based shade
Using a concealer brush, apply the concealer in a similar fashion as the eye cream; dot on from the inner corner to the outer corner. Blend the cream with the ring finger. Finish off with a neutral (gold or taupe) eyeshadow on eye lids and apply mascara and liner to the top lids only. Looks such as smoky eyes are not recommended because the makeup on the lower lashes can magnify the dark circles.
Treating and covering dark circles under the eyes is a familiar beauty issue for many women. Battling the problem involves first treating with the right eye cream that is best suited for the problem. Choosing a good concealer is also the best way to hide the problem.
References
- Miller, E. (2008 February). Beauty 101: Dark circles, banish undereye shadows in four easy steps. Allure, 72.
- Sullivan, J.C. (2010 April). Beauty 101: Younger eyes. Allure, 76.
Michele Whitney - Over 10 years of diverse professional experience, PhD candidate in Public Service with an undergraduate degree in Marketing and an MBA.
Join the Conversation