Cucumber slices are a popular facial treatment - just place a couple of slices over your eyelids for instant calm. Here are two other ideas you could try.
Nasal Spray
If a blocked nose is to blame, nasal sprays might be the answer. Nasal congestion can darken the appearance of the veins that drain from your eyes through to the nose, adding to dark circles. Other red flags of congestion include sinus headaches and a sore throat. Saline rinses or nasal sprays can temporarily relieve these symptoms, but prolonged use is not recommended. Building up tolerance to the spray could exacerbate congestion, so have your sinus problems properly assessed before use.
ADVANTAGES: Targets multiple sinus complaints
DISADVANTAGES: Uncomfortable for some
PLUS: 13 Secrets Your Eye Doctor Won't Tell You
Antihistamines
"Dark under-eye circles may also be a sign of atopy, meaning people predisposed to developing conditions such as asthma and eczema," says Georgina Kourt, fellow of the Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Ophthalmologists. So if you have any known allergies, antihistamines could reduce the puffiness associated with them, but will not do much to reduce dark circles. Available over the counter or on prescription, antihistamines work by blocking the effects of histamine, a substance released in the body during an allergic reaction. But use with caution, as they can have side effects such as drowsiness or dry mouth.
ADVANTAGES: Treats allergy and puffiness concurrently
DISADVANTAGES: Ineffective on genetic dark circles; may have side effects
Plus discover 8 more remedies for dark circles under eyes.
By Beatrix Hon from HealthSmart Magazine
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