Needless to say, eyes are the central expressive focus of the face. They reveal and express the various emotions of a person. However, what happens when your eyes start to reveal tiredness and fatigue as a result of the dark eyelids? ‘You look tired’ are the three words that nobody likes to hear, especially after putting extra effort every morning. This not only lowers down your spirits but also make you self-conscious. A 2016 study explains that dark eyelids occur when the skin surrounding your upper eye region tends to darken in colour. It is essential to acknowledge that the symptoms of dark eyelids are not dangerous and can be easily cured with certain remedies.
MAIN CAUSES
- Genetics
- Insufficient sleep
- Medications
- Sun damage
- Pregnancy
1. Genetics
According to a study conducted by the Journal of Clinical and Aesthetic Dermatology, your genes are one of the main causes that tend to influence the development of dark eyelids. Moreover, many research studies have concluded that dark eyelids are common in those with dark skin or hair. However, it can affect anymore, irrespective of your skin colour or gender. It is imperative to keep in mind that the symptoms of dark eyelids may affect some members of the family more than the others.
2. Insufficient sleep
A 2015 study unfolds that lack of sleep causes the blood vessels beneath your eyelids to dilate and appear more prominent. Furthermore, this promotes excessive blood flow, thereby, resulting in darker eyelids.
3. Medications
Certain medications such as oral contraceptives, antipsychotics etc., is yet another main cause behind dark eyelids. These medications tend to provoke hormonal fluctuations in your body that usually results in dark eyelids and dark circles. However, top doctors confirm that the occurrence of dark eyelids generally fades in five to six months after discontinuing the medication.
4. Sun damage
Overexposure to harmful rays of the sun without enough protection tends to promote excessive melanin production in your body. What’s more, it makes your skin appear thin while widening your blood vessels. In response, your blood vessels turn more noticeable under the already thin skin of your eyelids, making your eyelids appear dark.
5. Pregnancy
One of the most common skin changes that occur in a women’s body during pregnancy is melasma. Several doctors believe that the occurrence of melasma is due to the sudden changes in hormone levels. You may notice grey-brown patches visible on your face, especially around your eyes.
EFFECTIVE TREATMENT
- Cold compress
- Healthy lifestyle changes
- Gentle massage
- OTC treatment
1. Cold compress
A cold compress helps to regulate the blood flow and swelling from an inflammatory condition. Moreover, it helps to reduce any bruising from broken blood vessels while providing relief to your skin from sun damage. An effective way to cold compress your eyelids at the comfort of your home is to use a bag of frozen peas wrapped in a clean towel. It is crucial to keep in mind that you should not cold compress for more than 10 minutes at a time. Remember to gently pat it on your eyes every now and then.
2. Healthy lifestyle changes
Making some lifestyle changes will help you prevent and cure dark eyelids effectively. Certain bad habits like excessive alcohol consumption, smoking, stress etc., are known as one of the many culprits. It is why you should identify the harmful habits and change them for the desired results. Adopting a lifestyle that includes regular exercising, healthy meals etc., will not only cure your dark eyelids but also improve your overall health.
3. Gentle massage
Massaging your eyes gently helps to regulate the blood flow. In addition, almond and coconut oil are known as one of the best remedies to cure dark circles and dark eyelids. Top dermatologists claim that almond and coconut oil contains vitamins that help to lighten your dark eyelids and get rid of dark circles. On top of that, massaging these oils will also help to cure any inflammation in your eye area.
4. OTC treatment
There are several over the counter (OTC) products available in the market that helps to treat dark eyelids while providing nourishment to them. A research study conducted in 2016 unravelled that Hyaluronic acid and Chenopodium Quinoa Seed Extract are key ingredients that cure dark eyelids and lend a brighter appearance.
There are several factors that can lead to the appearance of dark eyelids. This is why it is wise to identify the cause before treating it. In addition, taking preventive measures while keeping a healthy lifestyle will certainly help you achieve satisfactory results. However, if you suspect that your dark eyelids are a result of an underlying problem, then you should immediately consult your doctor and start an appropriate line of treatment.
P.S.
It is vital to avoid direct sun exposure if you wish to prevent and cure dark eyelids. One of the best ways to avoid overexposure of sun is to shield your skin with a sunscreen. A broad-spectrum sunscreen meets the highest standard of safety that protects your skin from both UVA and UVB rays of the sun. It stops your skin from provoking skin conditions like dark eyelids caused by melasma etc., while providing hydration. Refrain from skipping sunscreen from your daily routine to get ideal protection.
