Using tea bags for dark circles is an inexpensive and reasonably safe way of addressing the problem of under-eye swelling and discoloration. The advantages to using tea bags for dark circles include cost, ease of use, and the wide availability of tea bags. Disadvantages to using tea bags for dark circles include the possibility of irritating the skin by inadvertently using flavored tea or a non-tea herbal infusions. Another possible disadvantage is the chance of an individual misunderstanding how to use tea bags for dark circles and applying hot tea bags to the eye area, which can burn and irritate the skin. Although tea bags may be a time-honored dark circle remedy, it is important to note that those who have severe dark circles may get more relief by working with their physician and treating the underlying cause of their condition.
The process for using tea bags for dark circles is relatively straightforward. Someone with dark circles can quickly dunk tea bags into hot water, a process that begins to extract both tannin and caffeine from the crushed tea leaves. Then the tea bags should be removed from the water and placed into a small dish and allowed to cool down thoroughly in the refrigerator. It is essential that tea bags for dark circles be completely cool, as hot tea will only aggravate swelling and irritation under the eyes. After the tea bags are cool but still quite damp, the user should lie down in a place with one tea bag over each eye. After 10 or 15 minutes, the tea bags can be removed. The tannin and caffeine in the tea may soothe the irritation and reduce bloating, making the eyes look more refreshed.
Unfortunately, many types of tea are blended with other ingredients to add flavor and aroma. These ingredients may significantly irritate both under-eye skin as well as the eyes themselves. Those who purchase tea bags for dark circles should read ingredient labels carefully to make sure that they are purchasing pure tea. It is also important to keep in mind that some products that are sold as tea are not actually tea, but are other types of herbs. These herbs can cause eye irritation as well, so it is important not to use them on the eye area.
If tea bags for dark circles prove to be ineffective, sufferers should see their physician. Dark circles may be a symptom of allergies or lack of sleep, so it is a good idea to address these issues with a health care professional. In situations where someone's dark circles are serious, he or she may be able to speak to a dermatologist who can offer more advanced remedies for treating dark circles.