Carla Cometto
Most people have experienced the unpleasantness of waking up and finding dark circles under their eyes. While they’re far more common than we’d like, there are some easy ways to prevent them. Two of these are simply staying hydrated and eating the right foods.
There are tons of skin and beauty products on the market that claim to get rid of dark circles. But why invest in an expensive cream if merely adding a food or two to your diet will take care of the problem?
Below, we’ll share what causes dark circles, and five foods that can send them packing for good!
Table of Contents
What Causes Dark Circles?
As is the case with many beauty problems, sleep deprivation is a major contributor to dark circles. Getting good-quality sleep and clocking enough snooze time is essential for overall health and plump skin.
On the same level of importance is good hydration. The skin around the eyes is extremely delicate and very thin. When we’re dehydrated, it thins further and exposes the blood vessels underneath, causing the area to darken and everyone to start commenting about how tired you look.
Therefore, drinking enough water throughout the day can keep dark circles and unwanted comments away. Since water isn’t exactly the most exciting drink on the menu, eating foods rich in water can also help you reach your fluid intake goals a little easier.
A high antioxidant and mineral content is also advantageous, as these can increase circulation in the area and make it look as lively as it’s meant to be.
Now, let’s take a look at some foods you can add to your diet that will help prevent this bit of beauty drama so you can look your best with minimal effort.
Cucumber
Not surprising, is it? Cucumber has been a skincare staple for a long time. Not only is it hydrating, since it’s made almost entirely of water, but it’s also rich in silica. This compound stimulates collagen production and is strongly associated with plump, glowing skin.
It also contains sulfur, which is great for skin elasticity. Basically, it has everything you need to maintain a youthful look. The great thing about cucumber is it’s also incredibly refreshing and offers a temporary brightening and tightening effect when used topically, so it can come in handy in case of itchy or puffy eyes.
Just pop a cucumber in the fridge to cool it down, chop a few slices, and then place them over your resting eyes for a few minutes. You’ll look and feel more awake in no time!
Tomato
Similar to cucumber, tomato is high in water content. However, it also contains antioxidants, including lycopene, which helps protect blood vessels and promotes circulation in the eyes.
Tomato is also a natural bleaching agent when used directly on your skin. Try mixing one teaspoon of tomato juice with one teaspoon of lemon juice, and then applying it under your eyes for 10 minutes. This can brighten your skin and make you look well-rested—especially if you do it a few times per week.
Watermelon
It’s no secret that watermelon is very hydrating—it’s basically all water and a bit of rind. Aside from being the perfect snack on a hot summer day, it’s also very nutritious. In fact, it’s rich in antioxidants and beta-carotene, a red pigment that’s converted to vitamin A in the body.
Vitamin A is also known for preventing age-related molecular degradation in the eyes, protecting your vision against night blindness, cataracts, and more. What a better reason to eat watermelon every chance you get?
Blueberries
When it comes to antioxidants, blueberries are king, which is why you should add them to your under-eye circle prevention diet. They’re also high in vitamin C, which supports capillary strength, and the stronger those are, the brighter your skin will be.
As a bonus, blueberries also support good vision and heart health. So, the purple tongue and teeth are worth it!
Spirulina
Spirulina is a type of bacteria that’s often referred to as blue-green algae. Although it tastes fishy, it’s packed with nutrients that can boost your overall health. More specifically, it helps fight free radicals in the body that often lead to wrinkles, making it a great antiaging nutrient.
It also contains proteins that promote tissue renewal, and sulfur, which is very beneficial for skin elasticity. Adding spirulina to your diet can help you stay in good health and make your skin look more radiant, preventing dark circles, and even wrinkles.
You can get spirulina in a few different forms. This powder from Micro Ingredients, makes it easy to add spirulina to shakes and smoothies.
If you prefer tablets, though, we recommend these from Nutrex Hawaii. Then, you can just take one daily with water or food.
$27.29 
Staying hydrated is one of the simplest ways to prevent dark circles, but another is to simply eat more of these nutritious foods. Not only will they help you get your daily dose of fluids, but they’ll also help you improve and maintain the health and appearance of your skin.
