Does anyone else feel like the crazy weather has been impacting their body’s cycle? Lately I’ve found that my sleep patterns have been so disrupted and my eyes are taking the brunt of it. I’m not sure if it is truly the weather or just the season of life - starting a new business, homeschooling my kids, passing around illnesses for this entire year, and just the general obligations of being a mom, wife, and friend, but either way it is definitely starting to show. Then came the time change and well, I just couldn’t deny it anymore because my under eyes have dark circles and bags that give away just how tired I’m feeling. I had to do something to eliminate the evidence, so I began to look for easy, at-home remedies to get some fast results. I’m happy to have found a few tried and true methods that brightened my eyes and made me look (and feel) so much better!
The first two require only one ingredient that you most likely already have in your home and are just so easy, you can’t help but to indulge. These will help replenish moisturizer to eliminate dry skin keeping your skin healthy and happy. The first method is olive oil. Simply use a dab of olive oil on damp skin around the eyes to lock in moisture. It just takes a second after getting out of the shower or washing your face. Olive oil is rich in fat-soluble vitamins, including E and K, which are good for hydration and can aid in decreasing dark circles and wrinkles.
Aloe vera is the second method. If you happen to have a plant at home, then you can apply the juice from the leaf around the eyes. Otherwise, store bought aloe will also work, just make sure that there aren’t any added ingredients. Aloe contains anti-inflammatory properties that can help with puffiness and is full of vitamins, minerals, enzymes, and fatty acids. The best part is that it is safe for even the delicate skin underneath your eyes.
Olive oil and aloe vera are miracle workers, but this one is my personal favorite - green tea. Green tea is not only incredibly soothing, but is also an antioxidant. Not only does it protect the skin from environmental stressors, it also firms and tightens the skin. But that’s not all. Green tea can also calm inflammation. My favorite method is soaking cotton pads in brewed tea (just make sure the tea is room temperature or cooler) and placing them on the eyes or just using the tea bags as eye pads.
The simplest remedy is right at your fingertips - literally. You can use your fingers to gently massage the eye area to promote drainage and reduce puffiness. Using your middle fingers, pat from the inner corner to the outer corner under the eye. Control the pressure to ensure that you are being gentle in this sensitive area.
Using at least one of these techniques daily will ensure healthier skin around your eyes, as well as reduce undereye circles, puffiness, and any other signs of tiredness. Remember to practice self care and moments of peace especially during times of chaos and uncertainty. Take care of yourself. xxoo