Dark under-eye circles are the story of my life! It may be due to my Indian ancestry and genetic predisposition to what is medically known as periorbital hyperpigmentation (POH), or it could be due to lack of sleep, allergies, aging or a number of factors.
For instance, straining your eyes by staring at a computer screen for extended periods of time can also cause the blood vessels around your eye to dilate and cause dark circles. Allergic reactions can also trigger dark circles. Histamines released in response to an allergen trigger results in puffiness, itchiness which could result in broken blood vessels when the eye is rubbed.
POH can be classified into four types, namely pigmented (brown hue), vascular (blue/pink/purple hue), structural , and mixed type (Huang et al.,2014). This further classification gives the clinician treatment options.
These treatment options may include laser therapy, chemical peels, surgical corrections and a number of topical agents such as hydroquinone, kojic acid, azelaic acid, and topical retinoic acid (Sakar et al., 2016).
The skin around the eyes is ten times thinner than the skin on the face. As we age, skin loses its elasticity and becomes even thinner due to a breakdown of collagen. Because it is thinner, it not only tends to be the first place to show signs of aging, but also is more sensitive than the rest of the skin.This can be further aggravated by sun exposure, smoking, and other environmental exposures. Also the tissue around the eyes have very few oil glands and lacks the natural moisture present on other parts of the body.
Since the eye is such a sensitive area, I am reluctant to try the treatment options as there can be side-effects. In general, I always prefer exploring natural alternatives which usually means it will take a longer time to see a visible difference, but the benefits outweigh the risks.
Today I will be sharing my experience with you how to reduce under eye puffiness and dark circles by using just two products that have helped me with my dark under eyes circles that I used consistently. Theoretically, it makes sense why these two products would work.
The first product that I used is Nirvana Natural Bliss Sweet Almond oil.
Historically, almond oil had been used in Ancient Chinese, Ayurvedic and Greco-Persian schools of Medicine to treat dry skin conditions such as psoriasis and eczema. Further, it is through anecdotal evidence and clinical experiences that almond oil seemingly reduces hypertrophic scarring post-operatively, smoothes and rejuvenates skin. Almond oil has emollient and sclerosant properties and, therefore, has been used to improve complexion and skin tone.
Properties of Sweet Almond oil
- Vitamin A: The retinol in vitamin A has the ability to stimulate the production of new skin cells and smooth fine lines.
- Vitamin E: has antioxidant properties that may help prevent cell damage and helps reduced ultraviolet damage caused by the sun.
- Omega-3 fatty acids: may help prevent premature aging and safeguard against sun damage.
- Zinc: is an essential nutrient for healing acne or other facial scars
A study published in the Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, has shown in a clinical study that sweet almond oil reduces the effects of UV light-induced photo-aging on the skin and it had a photo-protective effects on the skin, which makes it capable of preventing structural damages caused by UV irradiation and in decelerating the photo-aging process (Sultana, 2007).
- Cautionary note: If you have a nut allergy you should not use this oil. If you have never used sweet almond oil before do a patch test on the inner side of your forearm and wait 24 hours. If you experience no itching, swelling, burning or redness consider the oil safe to use on your skin. If you are unsure if sweet almond oil is the right oil for you speak to your doctor or dermatologist before using it.
The second is the Nirvana Natural Bliss Duo-Jade Roller
Some might be skeptical about the use of a Jade Roller and that is okay. I personally believe that the only way of knowing if it works is to try it. Being skeptical by nature, I know and am so happy that I gave it a try and now it has become part of my daily skincare routine and has become a staple product offering because it works.
The Jade roller has been around from the 7th century in China where Jade is known as the stone of eternal youth.
The Jade stone is believed to have healing and protective properties for the skin which I think is mostly anecdotal. To my knowledge it has not been scientifically studied or proven, however, some beauty strategies stand the test of time and in my personal view if it didn't work it may not still exist.
The rolling action, stimulates blood circulation and lymphatic drainage in your face and by using the smaller end of the Jade roller you reduce any puffiness around the eyes. You can find out more about the benefits of a jade roller here and how to use a Jade roller here.
How to use the products to together to reduce under eye puffiness and dark circles the natural way?
Your ring finger exerts the lightest pressure - so take a very little amount (a drop or two) of sweet almond oil and dab it over and underneath your eyes using your ring finger. Jade rollers are also delicate and need to be used with care and light pressure.Then proceed to use the smaller side of the jade roller and start at the inner corner of the eye lids and roll in the outward direction. Do the same underneath the eye rolling in an outward direction. It takes less than 2 minutes and so can easily make it part of your night time skincare routine.
References:
4. Sultana Y, et al. (2007) “Effect of pre-treatment of almond oil on ultraviolet B-induced cutaneous photoaging in mice”, Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology 6(1).
