Sunken Eyes: Causes, Prevention, And Home Remedies

Sunken or hollow eyes often give one the appearance of looking dull and tired almost constantly. They can make you look unhealthy as well. Most often, the root cause of the problem can be reversed. To treat the problem, let’s understand why it happens.

Causes Of Sunken Eyes

• Aging: Often, aging causes thinning and loss of collagen in the skin around the eyes. This makes the blood vessels near the eyes visible, darkening their appearance. We also lose fat and bone density which affects our facial structures.
• Weight Loss: Dramatic weight loss results in sunken eyes thanks to the loss of fat in the face.
• Sun Exposure: Sun exposure without protection accelerates the aging process, leading to that same thinning effect. It also results in the production of melanin which darkens skin.
• Genetics: The positioning of the eye in the socket plays a role. If your family members also have sunken eyes, it may have been passed down to you.
• Smoking: Aside from its other harmful effects, smoking reduces the amount of collagen in the skin and makes you more prone to sun damage and aging. This only emphasizes dark circles around the eyes.
• Lack Of Sleep: Often, just a lack of sleep can cause one’s eyes to look tired and sunken in.
• Dehydration: Water is essential for the formation of collagen which is why keeping hydrated is so important for healthy skin.

Home Remedies To Treat Sunken Eyes

1. Almond Oil

Almond oil has been shown to reduce scarring and pigmentation, so it may help improve complexion and lighten the skin around your eyes.¹

How To Use It

1. Use a few drops of pure almond oil.
2. Apply this gently, using your ring finger, around your eyes before going to sleep.
3. Do this regularly to see results.

2. Cucumber

Cucumber contains plenty of water which will help hydrate and cool down the skin.² The cooling effect will help reduce puffiness and help constrict the blood vessels around your eyes to reduce the dark appearance.

How To Use It

1. Cut a cucumber into slices and place the slices in the fridge for about half an hour.
2. Place each slice on your eyes and leave on for 15 mins.
3. Alternatively, you can refrigerate half a cucumber and then grate it into two small pieces of cheesecloth.
4. Tie up these pieces of cloth, almost like a teabag, and place them over your eyes for 15 mins.

3. Potato

Potato, like cucumber, hydrates the skin. Since potato is a lot denser, it will stay chilled for longer when it comes out of the fridge.

How To Use It

1. Cut the potato into ¼ inch slices and place the slices in the fridge for about half an hour.
2. Place each slice on your eyes and leave on for 15 mins.
3. Alternatively, you can refrigerate half a potato and then grate it into two small pieces of cheesecloth.
4. Tie up these pieces of cloth and place them over your eyes for 15 mins.

4. Coconut Oil

Coconut oil contains antioxidants that can help heal the skin and repair damage.³ Not to mention, it will act as a barrier to prevent moisture from escaping the skin.

How To Use It

1. Take a few drops of coconut oil.
2. Spread this under your eyes with your ring finger using a gentle touch.
3. Do this before going to bed.
4. In the morning, wash your face as normal.
5. Do this regularly.

Tips To Prevent Sunken Eyes

Here are some ways you can prevent the problem altogether or prevent worsening of the condition.

• Drink plenty of water.
• Use sunscreen under your eyes.
• Wear sun protective gear like hats or sunglasses.
• Avoid smoking.
• Try to get at least 7-8 hours of sleep every night.

If you feel conscious about the appearance of your eyes, target the root cause with these home remedies and tips to reveal a healthier appearance.