Natural, effective remedies to lighten dark circles

1.) Rose water: Rose water has a skin lightening effect and also soothes and calms this area. Also the senses become relaxed due to refreshing aroma of rose water. Soak cotton pads in water and then into natural rose water. Apply this under the eyes at least twice a week for best results.

2.) Raw milk: Skin ageing and pigmentation can be reduced by the presence of lactic acid in raw milk. Moreover, cool milk relaxes the blood vessels underneath the eyes. Dip raw milk with cotton pads and gently apply under the eye for best results.

3.) Tea bags: Dilated blood vessels under the eyes cause hyperpigmentation, which can be constricted by applying cold tea bags on your eyes at night as they contain polyphenols and catechins. For best results, use green tea bags, dipped and squeezed in refrigerated water.

4.) Mint leaves: Methanol in mint leaves reduces water retention under the skin and reduces puffiness under the skin. Make a smooth paste by crushing 8-10 mint leaves with a little water and apply this under the eyes until it dries.

5.) Amla/Gooseberry: This Vitamin C and antioxidant rich fruit helps in the regeneration of skin under the eyes and rejuvenates the skin with a healthy glow. Apply a smooth paste of amla powder and honey under the eyes.

6.) Saffron: Antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties of this spice help in reducing the complexion and skin tone, especially under the eyes. Soak a few strands of saffron in raw milk and then apply this mixture under the eyes on the dark circle prone area with your finger tips overnight and wash the face next morning.

7.) Tomato juice: Lycopene in this fruit possesses bleaching and skin lightening properties. Also the presence of Vitamin C, Vitamin K and potassium in tomato gives a healthy skin.

8.) Coffee and honey scrub: Large amount of antioxidants present in coffee makes it a good choice for reducing puffiness. Caffeine in coffee acts as a natural skin toner that improves blood circulation. Mix a teaspoon of honey and coffee powder to make a paste for applying under the eyes. Honey acts as a moisturiser that helps to absorb caffeine in the skin.

How do you care for your skin? (Source: Getty Images/Thinkstock)

9.) Cucumber: It provides a soothing effect and reduces hyperpigmentation under the eyes due to its antioxidant content. High water content in it keeps the skin hydrated. It boosts collagen production. Keep cucumber slices on the eyes for 10-15 minutes.

10.) Ice cubes: By improving the blood circulation under the eyes, they reduce the puffiness levels.
Place ice cubes directly in the affected area or by folding them in a cotton handkerchief.

11.) Potato juice: The astringent properties of enzymes and starch present in potato juice reduces inflammation and aids in skin tightening. Use the grated potato to squeeze out its juice and clean it with muslin cloth. Apply this juice with cotton pads under the eye.

12.) Turmeric: Curcumin in turmeric is a great healer due to its antioxidant properties. It reduces melanin production and causes the skin to glow. Make a paste of flour, turmeric powder and juice of mint leaves and apply in the required spots.

13.) Lemon juice: Vitamin C and bleaching properties of lemon aid in skin lightening and reduce pigmentation. Apply tomato and lemon juice under the eyes to reduce puffiness.

14.) Aloe vera: For deep nourishment of the skin and a soothing effect, use aloe vera gel. It hydrates the skin, increases blood circulation and aids in reducing puffiness. Massage the gel in the skin under the eyes in circular motions.

Dark circles take time to cure and don’t just vanish overnight. A well balanced diet, lifestyle changes and a good skincare regime with natural ingredients remain the best ways to slowly lighten and eventually heal dark circles.

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