Remedies for Under Eye Dark Circles and Puffiness During Pregnancy
Whether it’s working long hours during pregnancy, or sleepless nights scrolling through google (yes, we’re all guilty of adding items our baby gift registry at odd hours of the night), or the everchanging pregnancy mood swings eventually then spirals down to stress and fatigue which can cause dark circles and puffiness under eyes during pregnancy.
The skin under our eyes become frail and thin which causes the blood vessels underneath to become more visible as dark circles under the eyes. Medically, the condition is also referred to as melasma. Dark circles usually occur when the melanin in the skin starts accumulating around the eyes. Under eye dark circles can also be genetic, which could be aggravated due to stress that amplifies during pregnancy. Other factors that contribute to dark circles and puffiness during pregnancy include:
1. Morning sickness and pregnancy nausea
Morning sickness is very common amongst mothers during the first three months of pregnancy and usually begins at the nine-week mark after conception. Unfortunately, morning sickness then disrupts our regular sleep routine which causes dehydration due to vomiting, then affects our regular diet as we’re not able to eat and drink properly.
2. Sleep Deprivation
With the baby growing rapidly during the pregnancy it’s often difficult to fall into deep sleep. Certain factors such as the position of the baby, morning sickness, acid reflux and heartburn can prevent expectant mothers from sleeping deeply. Between 7 and 9 hours of sleep each day is necessary for a pregnant woman.
3. Hormonal change
Pregnancy triggers a multitude of hormonal changes in a woman’s body. Hormonal imbalance can be responsible for dilating the blood vessels. This leads to holding more volume of blood and hence pooling of blood under the eyes. This pooled blood being dark red in colour gives the appearance of under eye dark circles.
4. Inflammation
Factors such as fluid retention during pregnancy may cause inflammation and swelling. Dehydration often can cause puffiness in the face, swollen feet, and hands. Inflammation slows down the blood flow to the sensitive and delicate skin around the eyes. Hence, they resemble dark lines under the eyes.
How to Prevent Dark Circles and Puffiness During Pregnancy
Sleep
Sound sleep is the best way to keep you energised and minimise under eye dark circles. Try your best to clock in 7-8 hours of regular sleep each night. Also, lesser acidity and heartburn promotes better sleep too.
Balanced diet
It is vital to have a nutrient-rich and fibre-rich diet as this will help you feel less drained and fatigue. During pregnancy, your body is overworking by supporting you and your growing baby. Therefore, a balanced healthy diet by consuming loads of greens and fruits reduces the chance of possible vitamin deficiency which in turn helps prevent the appearance of under eye dark circles.
Keep yourself hydrated
Ensure ample fluid intake in the form of plain water (8-12 glasses per day), milk, coconut water, juices, soups, etc. Staying hydrated keeps your skin plump and supple. It reduces the pooling of blood and works wonders for good digestion.
Exercise regularly
Regular exercise contributes to increased oxygen count in the blood cells. It will help improve the quality of sleep and bring out your pregnancy glow. Please ensure to discuss with your obstetrician or midwife before you embark on a new exercise routine during pregnancy.
Eye-Care Routine
Keeping a consistent eye-care skin routine along with a balanced lifestyle helps prevent and reduces the appearance of under eye dark circles and puffiness. The skin under our eyes is thinner and more prone to dryness therefore by applying a natural eye cream or serum can penetrate the pores under the skin and help repair it from within.
Formulated with Rose Damascena and Helichrysum, Bheue’s Revitalising Eye Serum illuminates and revitalises the look of tired eyes. Rosa Damascena Flower Extract is a natural anti-inflammatory which stimulates natural collagen production while toning the skin. Whilst Helichrysum Stoechas Extract better known as ‘The Immortal/Everlasting Flower’ is a powerful anti-inflammatory plant active which stimulates cellular production, leaving skin toned, smooth and regenerated.
How to use:
Bheue Revitalising Eye Serum is best used in the morning when puffiness is typically at its peak. Dispense a small amount, about the size of a grain of rice and apply under the eye and around the orbital bone. Reverse the applicator to smooth out the serum and let it absorb.
Although dark circles may occur due to various medical reasons and cannot be removed permanently,
adhering to a proper exercise regime, keeping yourself hydrated and resting well -all these remedies benefit in improving the appearance of under eye dark circles and puffy eye pregnancy when done routinely.
