Step 1:

Get plenty of sleep every single night. Rest is possibly the most effective treatment for dark circles under the eyes. Get eight to 10 hours of quality sleep every night and avoid staying up late. When your body is well-rested, you will notice a significant improvement in your dark circles and overall skin tone.

Step 2:

Drink lots of water. The recommended quantity of water is eight 8 oz. glasses a day. Consume that amount and more, if possible. Drinking plenty of water helps flush your body of toxins and salt, which can reduce puffiness and skin discoloration. Being fully hydrated also makes your skin look fresh and healthy all over.

Step 3:

Get tested for allergies. According to the Mayo Clinic, allergies are a common cause of stubborn, dark circles and puffy bags under the eyes. Talk to your doctor about the possible allergens in your immediate environment and ask for an allergy test. If you are allergic to pet dander, pollen, mold or other common household allergens, these could be contributing to your dark circles.

Step 4:

Leave the city. This may not sound realistic, but neither is getting rid of dark circles “permanently.” If you really want to look refreshed year-round, regardless of the weather, polluted, urban air will not help you. Try to get as much fresh air as possible by taking weekend trips, if you must live in an urban environment.

Step 5:

Protect your eyes from the sun. Exposure to the sun’s UV rays increases melanin production in the skin, which causes tanning. Exposing the delicate skin around your eyes to the sun can darken the circles under your eyes. Wear large sunglasses during the day, regardless of how bright it is outside, to protect your eyes at all times.

Step 6:

Do not rub your eyes. The skin around your eyes is very thin and sensitive; excessive rubbing or wiping can cause irritation, puffiness and dark circles. If your eyes are itching or bothersome, rinse them with cool water instead of rubbing them with your hands.

Step 7:

Consider surgery. In some cases, dark circles under the eyes are hereditary or genetic and not much can be done to fix them in terms of changing routines or habits. If you have tried getting plenty of rest and changing your lifestyle but are still plagued with dark circles, consider a consultation with a dermatological surgeon to discuss laser treatment options.