Dark under eye circles are a part of life for some of us — but that doesn’t mean they’re one that we readily and happily accept. Even though we associate a lack of rest with under eye circles, the skin naturally thins as we age, which increases the appearance of those pesky dark circles — so even if you’ve gotten a full eight hours of sleep, they may stick around. Things like genetics play a major role in inheriting under eye circles, as do allergies and nutritional deficiencies. A great concealer will always be one of your best allies here, but making sure you’re getting all of the most important nutrients in your diet is also crucial. Jordan Hardin, certified ACE Personal Trainer, ACE Fitness Nutrition Specialist and Institute for Integrative (Holistic) Nutrition Health Coach, spoke to SHEFinds.com about the life-changing supplement you should have every morning to make eye circles disappear (or at least lighten because, remember, they’re a completely normal and common fact of life.
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Vitamin K
You’ve heard so much about the importance of vitamins C, B, and D — but vitamin K is one that often flies under the radar. Yet, it’s a vital nutrient to make sure you’re getting in your diet for a variety of reasons that relate to cardiovascular health.
“Vitamin K plays an indirect role in increasing circulation. It is essential in keeping blood pressure low, allowing the heart to pump blood more freely throughout the body,” Hardin.
So, what does proper circulation have to do with under eye circles? A whole lot, according to Hardin.
“One of the major underlying causes of undereye circles and bags is poor circulation, due to the thin skin. In most cases, increasing blood flow in this area is what will help clear this up,” Hardin says. “The best supplement to take to help with those pesky dark circles and bags under the eye is Vitamin K.”
Hardin says vitamin K is one of those vitamins we only need 1 microgram per kilogram of bodyweight, so a very little amount will go a long way. “For example, I weigh about 65 kilos (143 pounds),” Hardin says. “I would require 65 micrograms a day. It is recommended to get the Vitamin K from diet through leafy greens, certain vegetable oils and grains. It is also better taken from food because it's a fat soluble vitamin, meaning it absorbs in the body better with fats, especially with the oil sources.”
Before you head off to the drug store to stock up on vitamin K, remember to always check with your doctor before starting a new supplement. Unless you already have a vitamin deficiency, it is unlikely that taking a supplement is going to help with under eye circles. Other ways you can try and lessen the effect of those circles is by sleeping enough, elevating your head on two pillows when you sleep, and applying a cold compress or tea bags to your eyes in the morning, which can boost blood circulation.
And never underestimate the power of a color-correcting concealer to make those circles fade away. Concealers in shades of orange, yellow, and red are your best bets for canceling the blue-purple tones in under eye circles. Follow that up with your regular concealer and blend well with a makeup sponge.
