Men cannot use concealers and high-coverage foundation to camouflage dark patches around the eye area. They have to bravely face the world with their dark eye circles in full view, making them look tired and sleep deficient, and adding at least 5 years to their appearance.
The problem isn’t always about unhealthy lifestyles either. While hydration, rest, nutrition and exercise are all contributing factors in the appearance of dark circles, there are yet more significant causes that cannot be so easily corrected. But first:
What Are Dark Eye Circles?
They are blood vessels under the eyes that can be seen through the skin. Deoxygenated blood appears blue in color (it isn’t really blue), and when it passes close to the surface of the skin it gives off a bluish tint.
What Causes Dark Circles?
Genes: Having dark circles under the eyes can be a hereditary attribute that passes from generation to generation.
Allergies: Seasonal allergies are one example. They can trigger the release of histamines in the body, which in turn inflames blood vessels around the eye area.
Pigmentation: Some people have more pigment (melanin) beneath the eyes that shows up in contrast to the rest of the skin as dark patches.
Bone Structure: A deep-set bone structure with the eyes nesting deeper in the sockets can create an illusion of dark circles.
Nasal Congestion: According to the Mayo Clinic, the veins that drain from the eyes to the nose can widen because of nasal congestion and therefore appear darker.
Iron Deficiency: Anemia or an iron deficiency can result in dark eye circles as not enough oxygen reaches the body’s tissues.
Medication: Any medication that causes blood vessels to dilate can make eye circles look more pronounced.
Age: As people get older, their skin loses collagen and becomes thinner. The blue veins show through more prominently then, intensifying the appearance of dark circles.
Test The Nature Of Your Dark Circles
Place an index finger right under the eyes and stretch the skin gently. If the area becomes darker, the circles are probably due to genetics or aging. If the color doesn’t change, it could be a temporary appearance, cause by allergies, UV rays, cough and cold, lack of sleep etc.
How Men Can Lessen The Appearance Of Dark Circles
Chilled Moisturizers: Men can apply chilled moisturizers that are fortified with Vitamins K, Vitamin E, sesame oil, safflower oil or avocado oil. Eye creams with caffeine will also constrict blood vessels under the eyes and help with dark circles.
Parsley Pack: Freeze parsley in an ice cube tray and then apply a cube under each eye. Parsley has chlorophyll, which diffuses pigmentation.
Almond Oil-Honey Massage: A few minutes before going to sleep, gently rub some almond oil and honey around the eyes. Almond oil contains Vitamin E and is a monounsaturated fatty acid, and both these attributes benefit skin.
Rose Water Rinse: Rose water is like an elixir for the delicate under-eye skin. It rejuvenates and soothes effects of tired eyes and is an excellent skin toner too. Keep a bottle of rose water in the fridge and apply as often as you like as a splash or a rinse.
UV Protective Sunglasses: You have to constantly be on guard against the sun. It’s one of the biggest factor that contributes to fine lines and wrinkles around the eyes, especially in men, and UV-protective sunglasses keep the eyes from being exposed to direct sunlight every time you step outdoors.