But as you stare in the mirror, you're confronted by a stranger! Somehow, there's something different about you. Then from out of the blue, it suddenly hits you! You look terrible and it's because of those dark circles under your eyes!

Dark circles below the eyes are no big deal. Everyone gets them from time to time. If you're a party animal, chances are you'd get them more often since the condition is common in people who don't have enough sleep, are constantly under stress or sleep in a position that allows fluid to collect in the lower eyelids. This causes the eyelids to swell creating the appearance of shadows below the eyes.

In most cases, the problem is simply cosmetic and not a serious health hazard. You can blame it on your parents for the condition may be inherited. However, as trivial as their causes are, dark circles shouldn't be ignored for in some instances they may mean something else. If the problem persists or worsens, it's wise to see a doctor.

"Dark circles under the eyes can be the result of allergies to airborne substances, such as pollen, dust, and pet dander, because people rub their itchy eyes. People with hay fever may notice them at the height of the season," according to Cathy Wong of the American College of Nutrition.

"Blood vessels under the eyes can become dilated and engorged, which can contribute to dark circles. Excess dietary salt and smoking are common causes. Conditions that cause fluid retention (e.g. heart, thyroid, kidney, liver diseases) or medications that cause blood vessel dilation may be a factor. Your doctor should be aware of any symptoms you're experiencing," she added.

To get rid of dark circles, here are some home remedies courtesy of Wong:

œ Drink enough water.

œ Wear sunscreen with a minimum of SPF 30 under the eyes to prevent skin weakening caused by sun

damage.

œ Get plenty of rest.

œ Apply plain cool teabags over closed eyes. Don't use herbal teabags because most aren't as

effective.

œ Apply cool cucumber slices over closed eyes for 15 minutes.

œ Don't consume too much dietary salt.

œ Apply vitamin K cream. Although studies haven't looked at the use of topical vitamin K for dark circles under the eyes, preliminary studies have found that vitamin K may help with bruising.

œ Take enough vitamin C to help strengthen blood vessel walls.

If nothing seems to work, try Eyevive, a revolutionary product that can diminish if not totally eliminate dark circles under the eyes as well as other eye problems like puffiness, fine lines, and wrinkles. Simply apply the product twice a day with the fingertip to the skin below and around the affected areas and you'll get dramatic results in a couple of days.