Remove Dark Circles: 11 Effective Natural Ways and 7 Best Creams (2023)

Do you have dark circles? Then, you will be curious to know about how to remove dark circles. Dark circles under the eye refer to the area of the skin below the eyes that appears darker than the surrounding skin. Depending on your skin color, dark circles under the eye may appear brown, or black (most often). They can also make you look tired and older than your age. Here we provided a list of how to remove dark circles at home naturally and included our top picks for dark circles removal cream.

What are the causes of the dark circle?

Lack of Sleep: Getting too little sleep is one of the biggest reasons for dark circles under your eyes. When you’re not sleeping enough, your body can’t repair the skin and other tissues. Only in a deep sleep state, blood circulation can concentrate on the skin tissues and cells, giving your face a healthier look.

On the other hand, if you do not get enough deep sleep, there will be an increase in stress on your body system. When stress builds up, your body releases steroid compounds that slow down blood flow to your skin, redirecting it to your muscles and other organs. This poor blood flow and deoxygenated blood can cause dark circles.

Genetics: If your parents have dark eye circles, then you are more likely to have them too, regardless of what treatments you use or how much you sleep. People with more melanin (the pigment found in the skin) are also more likely to have dark circles in the area around the eyes. The body produces too much melanin when you are exposed to the sun too much.

Eczema (skin swelling): Other immune system issues, like eczema, can cause inflammation and discoloration around the eyes. Too much rubbing can cause the skin to itch and irritate, which can lead to damage to the blood vessels in the eye. This can cause the skin to turn dark, either temporarily or permanently.

Iron Deficiency: There is a good chance you will develop dark circles or even puffiness (swelling under your eyes) if you’re not eating foods that are rich in nutrients. The discoloration you experience can be caused by deficiencies in minerals like iron. The veins around your eyes tend to become more visible whenever there is less iron in your body. There are many research studies that anemia (a condition with iron deficiency) is one of the causes of dark circles.

Alcohol Consumption: Dark circles are worsened by several factors. Alcohol increases the amount of work the liver must do. It also lowers blood oxygenation. This is because alcohol replaces the oxygen in your blood, which is what causes the intoxicating effects. Alcohol is also a vasodilator. Which means it causes your blood vessels to widen further. This can cause your eyes to become swollen or puffy.

Alcohol can also contribute to the appearance of dark circles due to its effects on the body’s circadian rhythm (The natural cycle of physical, mental, and behavioral changes that the body goes through in a 24-hour cycle). When consumed in excess, alcohol can interfere with the body’s natural sleep cycle, resulting in fatigue the following day, which can manifest itself in the form of darker circles.

How to prevent dark circles?

In general, prevention is always better than cure, it also suits skincare. This is also true when it comes to dark circles. In addition to the remedies mentioned below, here are some tips to help keep dark circles at bay. Please note that many dark circles are genetic, so you may not be able to completely avoid them.

(1) Make sure you stay protected from the sun by wearing sunscreen around your face and eyes. (2) Make sure you are getting enough sleep of at least 8 hours. (3) Try to reduce your stress by finding healthy ways to take care of yourself, like scheduling some self-care. (4) Do not drink too much alcohol, as it can reduce your blood circulation and dehydrate your body.

Read More: The 8 Very Best Face Washes for All Skin Type, Reviewed (2023), Best Moisturizer 2023: Our Top Picks for Dry Skin.

11 ways to remove dark circles at home naturally

1. Raw Potatoes

Potatoes are awesome for your skin because they’re packed with antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals that give your skin all the nourishment it needs. They have active enzymes, vitamin C, and starch that give your eyes the nourishment they need. Plus, they can even help reduce inflammation and reduce dark circles under your eyes. Grate a raw and squeeze out the juice, and rub it around your eyes. Leave it for around 15 to 20 minutes, then wash your face. Use it every day for at least a week to keep your eyes looking clear.

2. Saffron

Saffron has a wide range of beauty benefits beyond its culinary applications. Its anti-inflammatory properties help to bring a luminous radiance to the skin, which is why many beauty products and creams use it as their main ingredient. This is due to its antioxidant properties, which can help to lighten skin, improve texture, reduce pigmentation, heal scars, and provide a cure for acne. Put 2-4 strands of saffron into a cup of milk. Let it soak for at least an hour. Put a cotton ball in the mixture and rub it on your eyes. Give it a gentle massage for 10 minutes and then wash it with cold water.

3. Almond Oil

Almond oil is an excellent source of vitamin E and found to have emollient properties when applied to the skin. These properties enable almond oil to gradually soften and smooth the skin. Applying almond oil to the skin can support reducing dark circles. All you have to do is apply a small amount of almond oil over the dark circles and give it a gentle massage. You can leave them overnight and wash them the next morning.

4. Tea Bags

Caffeine and tannins in tea bags act as a natural remedy for dark circles. The caffeine causes the blood vessels under the eye to contract, reducing puffiness and swelling in the eye region. The contraction of the blood vessels helps to naturally reduce the appearance of dark circles. Soak the tea bag in water (green tea bag preferably) or chamomile tea bag. Chill the tea bag by putting it in the refrigerator for a few minutes. Put them on your eyes. Repeat this process regularly to notice significant results.

5. Aloe Vera Gel

Aloe Vera helps keep your skin hydrated and helps reduce inflammation. If you use it regularly under your eye, it might help reduce the look of dark circles. The aloe vera plant has the power to treat a bunch of skin problems together. Refrigerate the aloe vera gel for a few minutes before applying it. Just apply and leave it overnight. It is one of the effective natural ways to get rid of dark circles.

6. Cold Milk

Vitamin A, which is found in dairy products such as milk, is an excellent source of retinoids. Retinoids play an important role in maintaining healthy, youthful skin. Also, lactic acid in milk has been found to be effective in the reduction of fine lines, wrinkles, and even the formation of dark circles. Dip cotton balls in cold milk for 5-10 minutes, then put them in dark circles for 10 minutes, and rinse the face. Repeat two or three times a week to see results.

7. Mint Leaves

Mint leaves are a gentle astringent that aids in the natural toning of the skin. It is effective in eliminating dead skin cells, removing impurities from the pores, and restoring the skin to a smooth, supple, and well-hydrated complexion. Additionally, it helps to retain the moisture in the skin by tightening the pores. The antioxidants present in the leaves of mint are effective in reducing the appearance of dark circles under the eyes. It is achieved by applying mint leaf paste to the affected area and allowing it to remain overnight. This will lighten the skin tone beneath the eyes and promote rejuvenation by preventing the cells from being damaged by free radicals.

8. Tomato and Lemon Juice

Tomatoes are rich in lycopene, while lemon is rich in vitamin C. Lycopene is well known to improve vision, and help in skin health. Mix one spoonful of tomato juice with one spoonful of lemon juice, then rub it under your eyes for about 10 minutes, then rinse off with water. Do this twice a day.

9. Rose Water

Rose water helps soothe and hydrate the sensitive skin under your eyes, so you do not have to worry about puffiness from allergies or stress. Plus, it is rich in Vitamin C, which helps lighten dark circles and make your skin look brighter. Use a cotton ball to apply rose water to your skin. Allow to remain for 15 minutes, then rinse with cold water. This process should be repeated every night for a month for optimal results.

10. Change Sleeping Habits or Get Better Sleep

It may sound weird, but working on your sleeping habits may work wonder for you. It’s not about getting more hours of sleep; it’s about improving the quality of your sleep. If you want to get better sleep, here are some tips to help you out: 1. Make sure you go to bed at the same time every night and get up at the same time every morning, even on the weekends; 2.  Make sure your bedroom is peaceful, dark, and comfortable; 3. Avoid eating too much food, caffeine, or alcohol before bed; 4. Do some exercise during the day to help you get a deep sleep every night.

11. Cucumbers

Cucumbers are great for cooling your skin and keeping your eyes hydrated. They can also help increase blood flow to your eyes and reduce the appearance of dark circles. To use cucumbers, cut two pieces and put them on your eyes. Let them sit for 15-20 minutes and then wash them off with water. Do this every day to get the best results.

12. Cold Compress

Cold compresses are a great way to reduce swelling and dilate your blood vessels. They can also help reduce puffiness from dark circles. To use, wrap some ice cubes in the cloth, and rub it over your eyes. You can also use an eye mask (Put them in the fridge to cool down). You can do this twice a day for 10 minutes to get the best results.

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Our Top Picks for Best Dark Circles Removal Cream

1. CeraVe Eye Repair Cream to Remove Dark Circles

CeraVe Eye Repair Cream to remove dark circles

CeraVe has been ophthalmologically tested and has a non-greasy, fast-absorbing, fragrance-free formula that helps reduce dark circles and puffiness in the eyes. CeraVe is formulated with three key ceramides, niacinamide, hyaluronic acid, and botanical complex to brighten the under-eye area. Its MVE (Multivesicular Emulsion) technology formulation helps continuously release moisturizing ingredients for long-lasting hydration.

2. RoC Multi Correxion Dark Circle Removal Cream

RoC Multi Correxion cream

RoC Multi Correxion Cream helps to get rid of puffy eyes, reduces the appearance of wrinkles and dark circles, and restores skin appearance. This five-in-one eye cream treatment is formulated with a Hexinol technology formula, offering multiple benefits to help make the eyes look younger and more youthful.

3. LilyAna Naturals Retinol Cream Moisturizer

LilyAna Naturals Retinol Cream Moisturizer

Retinol Cream is a lightweight, hydrating formula that helps to rehydrate dry skin while also reducing the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines, as well as dark patches, acne scars, and UV damage. This cream has the best ingredients that you are looking for in the removal of dark circles; Aloe Vera Juice, Green Tea Leaf Extract, different types of vitamins, and more.

4. BENTON Fermentation Eye Cream for Dark Circles

BENTON Fermentation Eye Cream for dark circles

Fermentation Eye Cream by Benton combines fermented ingredients with anti-aging ingredients to keep your eyes soft and hydrated. Fermented ingredients like Bifida Fructile Lysate and Galactomyces Fructile, help to repair skin damage. Fermentation ingredients like Ceramides, Hyaluronic Acid, Aloe, and Panthenol deeply hydrate your skin. Beta-Glucans and Adenosine are also included in this formula to plump & smooth your eyes for a brighter, more youthful appearance.

5. Just Herbs Nourishing Dark Circles Removal Cream

Just Herbs Nourishing dark circles removal cream

A top-rated low-cost dark circles removal cream. This gel-based formula is super easy to absorb and goes all the way to the deepest layer of your skin, giving you a super smooth and even glow. Formulated with a blend of tea extract, herbs, and essential oils to keep your skin safe and reduce dark circles and puffiness. Plus, the cooling effects of green tea and cucumber help to relax your muscles and plump up your skin, thus helping to get rid of wrinkles and lines around your eyes.

6. Mario Badescu Hyaluronic Eye Cream

Mario Badescu Hyaluronic dark circles removal cream

This formula is packed with skin-friendly botanicals that help reduce dryness, fine lines, puffiness, and dark circles. It is made with Hyaluronic Acid and Aloe Vera, plus Eyebright extract, so you can trust it to soak into your skin with its whipped-like consistency.

7. Pure Netraa Under Eye Serum for Dark Circles

Pure Netraa Under Eye Serum for removal of dark circles

A low-budget vitamin serum for dark circles. This blend contains an abundance of natural vitamins and minerals, including Vitamin E, Vitamin K, Vitamin C, Retinol, Polyphenols, Omega-3, and Beta-Carotene. It provides comprehensive care for sensitive and delicate skin beneath the eyes, particularly in the areas of discoloration. Additionally, to increase the efficiency of protection herbs and spices are heat-soaked in additional oils.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)


How to remove dark circles permanently?

It depends on the causes of the dark circle. If it is because of lifestyle, nutrient deficiency, and skin-related problems, people can make changes to their lifestyle, follow natural ways, or use creams and get rid of dark circles. But some things just cannot be changed, like genetics. There are ways to try and get rid of them, but it might not be possible to get rid of them completely or forever.

What causes dark circles?

Most commonly, dark circles under the eye are caused by fatigue. In some cases, what you may see as dark circles under your eye may be shadows caused by puffy eyes or hollows under the eyes. The other major contributors are Eczema, Iron Deficiency, excess alcohol consumption, and genetics.

How to remove dark circles in 5 minutes?

It is not possible to remove dark circles in 5 minutes. You can remove dark circles following a few methods based on the cause of the dark circles. It may be a change in lifestyle, home remedies, or using a cream. But all these methods should be followed on regular basis for a certain period.

Can dark circles be removed naturally?

Yes. You can remove dark circles naturally at home. There are various ways to follow. Some of the effective ways are, using Raw Potatoes, Saffron, Almond Oil, Tea Bags, and Aloe Vera Gel. You should follow these natural ways regularly for the best results.