If you had dark circle under the eyes (raccoon eyes) it would definitely make you crazy. Dark circles are the result of the engorged blood vessels under the eyes. As the skin under eyes is thinner than skin elsewhere on our body, blood vessels under eyes are more noticeable, especially in fair skinned people. Generally, dark circles are due to hyper pigmentation of melanin, the substance that gives color to the skin.

Dark circle under the eyes describe the health of a person. The possible causes are lacking of sleep, overstrain, eye overusing, illness, poor nutrition, dehydration, allergies, aging, smoking, etc. Sometimes they are hereditary: if your parents have them; there are more chances that you do, too have them.

In dark-skinned people, the exposure to sunlight can cause skin pigmentation under the eyes in higher level. Tanning increases skin pigmentation and draws the pigmentation to the surface. So if you have darker skin and love to tan, it is effective to avoid the sun for a while to brighten your eye area.

These dark circles are not harmful to your body. So anybody with dark circles does not have to worry about them. Actually sometimes they're not even an indication of physical problems. There are several tips for treatment for dark circles under the eyes.

Ways to Cure Dark Circles Under The Eyes

• Apply a cold compress – this will assist in constriction of blood vessels and turn tissue white. Then dark circles will lighten.
• Gently massage under the eyes with a cool washcloth (or cotton buds).
• Put some slices of raw potato or cucumber over the eyelids with eyes closed for 15-20 minutes. Wash with warm water and apply eye cream.
• Take out cucumber juice. Mix it with lemon juice and lanolin cream. Then apply around the eye for 10-15 minutes.
• Apply some crushed mint around the eye.

• However, do not leave any lotion on the skin around the eyes for long periods.

Nutrition & Relaxation

• Drink clean water – at least eight to ten glasses a day.
• Avoid excess eat of chocolates and try to take more fibers in the diet.
• Take 2 tablets of magnesium per day, especially if you're taking calcium.
• Eat vegetables and fruits that are rich in vitamin A.
• Use a sunscreen especially made for the face with a Sun Protection Factor (SPF) to keep the sun's rays from darkening the skin under your eyes.
• Sleep at least 8 hours per day.

Finally, if you think that the dark circles under your eyes are a serious health issue (if they appeared suddenly and unexpectedly, or came with other signs of illness), then consult a dermatologist.