Having dark circles under your eyes is commonly associated with being tiredness, fatigue, and sleep deprivation, but many other factors can contribute to their formation, such as:
- illness and infections
- allergies
- stress
- hormonal changes
- chronic eye irritation
- eye strain
- sun damage
- dehydration
- poor nutrition
- vitamin deficiency
- excessive alcohol consumption
- smoking
- some medications
- bone and facial structure
Addressing these underlying causes can help to lighten or eliminate dark circles.
Other factors, such as inflammation, dry skin, and loss of elasticity, can make infraorbital dark circles appear worse. A simple, natural solution may help reduce these contributing factors, aloe vera.
Aloe Reduces Inflammation
Aloe vera is a succulent plant often used topically to treat skin conditions like burns, wounds, and rashes.
The plant’s leaves contain a gel-like substance that’s composed of 75 different compounds, including:
- vitamins A, C, E, and B12
- enzymes (amylase, catalase, peroxidase)
- zinc
- copper
- selenium
- calcium
- sugars
- fatty acids
- hormones
- lignin
- saponins
These compounds and more work together to soothe and heal the skin and give it strong anti-inflammatory properties. This will help reduce the appearance of dark circles by decreasing the inflammation in the skin tissues.
Aloe Vera Improves Skin Elasticity
In addition to reducing inflammation, aloe vera may also help improve the appearance of dark under-eye circles by firming and tightening the skin.
This is because aloe vera can stimulate the production of collagen and elastin fibers in the skin.
These fibers are responsible for the skin’s elasticity and strength, and when they break down, the skin becomes loose and saggy. This is a common sign of aging skin, and it can make any existing dark circles appear worse.
Applying aloe vera to the skin can help firm and tighten it, helping to smooth out the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles and reduce the appearance of dark circles.
Aloe Vera Moisturizes the Skin
Dark circles can appear more prominent if the skin around your eyes is dry.
The skin under your eyes is fragile and delicate, so any dehydration will cause the area to look sunken and darker.
Aloe vera gel is a natural moisturizer that repairs the skin’s moisture barrier, preventing dehydration and keeping the skin hydrated.
When your skin is hydrated, you’ll feel healthier and look healthier, and any dark circles around your eyes may be less noticeable.
How to Use Aloe Vera for Dark Circles
To use aloe vera for dark circles, you can get the gel directly from a live plant or purchase a moisturizing lotion with aloe vera as an active ingredient.
Carefully apply the gel or lotion to the skin area around your eye. Be very careful to avoid getting it in your eye.
Gently massage the gel or lotion into your skin using your fingertips.
Use a circular motion and be careful not to tug or pull at the skin.
Leave the gel or lotion on your skin. There’s no need to rinse it off.
Repeat this process once or twice a day, as needed.
Talk to your doctor about any underlying medical conditions that may be contributing to your dark circles.
