Health

How the Moon Affects Behavior and Health

40. Increased Birth Rate Since many people believe that the lunar cycle relates to a woman’s menstrual cycle, it would make sense that the birth rate… Trista Smith - August 26, 2019

Since Galileo discovered the Moon in 1610, we have been curious about this celestial object. Scientists have been studying the Moon for years, trying to track its movement and test its environment. When the United States landed on the Moon’s surface in 1969, it led to even more questions about the astronomical body that orbits Earth.

Have you ever felt different when a full Moon is approaching? Maybe your sleep schedule feels out of whack, your emotions are all over the place, or you find your memory is not working as well as it should. It may seem strange, but the phases of the Moon could be affecting your health. When it comes to sleep, menstruation, and even mental health, the Moon is definitely at play. Curious to learn more about the Moon and how it impacts your health? Keep reading!

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1. Earth’s Moon

The only natural satellite in the Solar System that is a permanent fixture is the Moon. This satellite is the fifth-largest and second-densest satellite that orbits a planet. The Moon formed shortly after Earth about 4.51 billion years ago.

Scientists theorize that the Moon formed from debris left behind after a Mars-sized object called Theia collided with Earth. The Moon rotates in synchronicity with Earth; therefore the near side of the Moon is always shown to Earth. Following the Sun, the second-brightest celestial being in the sky is the Moon. Earth’s Moon is roughly 1.28 light seconds, or 238,856 miles, away from Earth’s surface.

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2. What’s In a Name?

In Ancient Times, the Moon was used as a measurement of time. The Moon gets its name from the Proto-Indo-European words for “Moon” and “month.” The name Luna is also used to refer to the Moon, especially in literature where it’s being personified.

In modern English, the word lunar is used to describe the Moon. This word comes from the Latin word “luna,” which means Moon. Rarely, the Moon is referred to as selenic, which derives from the Ancient Greek word for Moon, selḗnē. Because of this word, the study of the Moon’s physical features is known as selenography.

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3. The Formation of the Moon

About 60 million years after the Solar System originated, the Moon was formed. Roughly 4.51 billion years ago, material from Earth was launched into space due to an impact from a large celestial body named Theia. This material was then pulled around by gravity and formed into the Moon.

The Moon is thought to have formed from the fusion of two different celestial bodies. The reasoning for this is that the far side of the Moon has a crust that is 31 miles thicker than the crust on the near side. Experts believe that the impact that created the Moon would have formed a lunar magma ocean on its surface.

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4. The Moon’s Structure

The Moon is unique in that its core, crust, and mantle are geochemically different. Its inner core is solid, iron-rich, and has a radius of about 150 miles. The Moon’s outer core is made of liquid iron and has a radius of 190 miles. The area around the core is partially molten and has a radius of roughly 310 miles.

The cause of this structure is a result of the lunar magma ocean that occurred on the Moon’s surface right after it was created. Samples taken from the Moon show that the surface is mostly made from the igneous rock anorthosite. After Jupiter’s Moon Io, the Moon is the second-densest satellite in the Solar System. Its composition is mainly made up of metallic iron mixed with small traces of nickel and sulfur.

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5. Its Surface

The surface of the Moon is fascinating and has been studied in depth by scientists. The most visible feature on the Moon’s surface is the South Pole-Aitken basin. This basin is the Moon’s most massive crater and also the second-largest impact crater in the entire solar system.

This crater has a floor that is over 8 miles deep, reaching the lowest point on the Moon’s surface. There are many other large impact basins on the Moon. Because of this, the far side of the Moon has a surface that is roughly 1.2 miles higher than the surface of the near side. The Moon also has volcanic features including solidified pools of ancient lava. Although water cannot exist in its liquid state on the Moon, signs of water have been found by researchers in the past two decades.

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6. Gravitational Pull

Because of the gravitational acceleration on the surface of the Moon is roughly 1.625 meters per second squared, objects on the Moon only weigh 1/6 of what they weigh on Earth’s surface. Radio signals from spacecraft that orbit the Moon measure its gravitational field. The Moon is known for having large gravity anomalies in its gravitational field.

Called mascons, these anomalies are associated with giant impact basins on the surface of the Moon. Mascons are integral in influencing how spacecraft orbit around the Moon. Many of the lava flows that are present on the surface of the Moon are caused by mascons.

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7. Orbit

Roughly every 27.3 days the Moon completely orbits around the Earth. Since the Earth is orbiting around the Sun at the same time, it takes the Moon a few days longer to show the same phase to Earth. The rotation of the Sun and Earth impact how the Moon orbits our planet.

Relative to the Sun, the Moon completes one revolution in roughly 29.53 days. A common center of mass is what the Earth and Moon orbit from. Known as a barycentre, this area lies about 2,900 miles from the center of the Earth. The average distance from Earth’s center to the Moon is roughly 239,000 miles.

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8. The Size of the Moon

It can be hard to tell when you look up at the Moon from Earth, but this celestial body looks more significant than it actually is. Concerning the Earth, the Moon is more than a quarter of its size. The Moon’s mass is about 1/81 of planet Earth.

Earth’s Moon is the largest in the solar system in relation to the size of the planet it orbits. If you combine the areas of North and South America, you will get slightly less than the size of the surface area of the Moon. The Moon’s surface area measures roughly 14,600,000 square miles.

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9. View from Earth

In the same time it takes the Moon to orbit Earth it also rotates on its axis. Because of this, the Moon nearly always keeps the same face turned towards planet Earth. From Earth, we can only see about 59% of the Moon’s surface.

The side of the Moon that faces Earth is referred to as the near side while the opposite is the far side. Many mistakenly referred to the far side of the Moon as the “dark side,” but this area becomes illuminated just as much as the near side. Both sides see light once every 29.5 days. The near side of the Moon is dark during a new Moon phase

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10. Tidal Effects

Tidal forces caused by the Moon can affect the Earth’s crust and oceans. The Moon has a greater attraction for the side of the Earth that it is closest to compared to the far side of the Moon’s gravitational attraction to Earth. We can see the effects of this in the behaviors of the oceans on planet Earth.

Tidal forces cause two bulges in the Earth’s oceans. There is one on the side of the Earth that faces the Moon and one on the opposite side of the planet. This causes elevated sea levels that are known as ocean tides. While the Earth spins on its axis, high tide occurs in the place under the Moon. This results in two high tides and two low tides every 24 hours.

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11. Eclipses

An eclipse occurs when the Earth, Moon, and Sun are in a straight line. Solar eclipses happen when there is a new Moon, between the Sun and Earth. During a Full Moon, a lunar eclipse occurs, and that is when the Earth is between the Moon and the Sun.

The Moon orbits around the Earth at an incline so an eclipse will not occur every time there is a Full or New Moon. The Moon has to be near the intersection of the Sun and Moon’s orbital planes in order for us to see an eclipse. Roughly every 18 years an eclipse of the Sun by the Moon and the Moon by the Earth happens.

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12. Ancient Studies

One of the earliest developments of astronomy was an understanding of lunar cycles. Astronomers in the fifth century BC Mesopotamia recorded an 18-year cycle of lunar eclipses. It wasn’t until Ancient Greece that the physical form of the Moon, as well as Moonlight, was understood.

In the second century BC, astronomers developed the theory that the Earth’s attraction to the Moon was the reason for tidal changes. They determined that the height of a tide was dependent on how the Moon was positioned in relation to the Sun. In the Middle Ages, before the telescope was invented, the Moon was increasingly recognized as being round. Scientists also believed it had a smooth surface.

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13. Astronomy

One of the fundamental natural sciences is astronomy. Historians in early civilizations methodically observed the night sky — Egyptians, Greeks, Chinese, Maya, and indigenous people in the Americas all studied space. In ancient times astronomy included making calendars, celestial navigation, and astrophysics.

The first person to use a telescope to explore space was Galileo Galilei. He constructed his own telescope in 1609 and was the first person to observe mountains and craters on the surface of the Moon. Before Galileo, philosophers in Ancient Greece determined that the Moon and Sun were giant rocks and the Moon reflected the light of the Sun. Because of this view, many were imprisoned and exiled. Back then, any theory that an unknown area was created by something other than God was seen as unfathomable.

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14. Mythology

The earliest depiction of the Moon is a 5000-year-old rock carving in Ireland. Numerous prehistoric and ancient cultures have personified the Moon as a deity. Even today the Moon is prominent in astrology.

In many cultures, the Moon was seen as a God. In Roman mythology, the Sun was seen as male, and the Moon was seen as female. That is where the name Luna originates from. If you have seen art depicting a blazing Sun and crescent Moon with faces, that style of artwork originated in late medieval times. This artistic arrangement also dates back to the Bronze Age.

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15. Lunar Phases

A lunar phase is how the Sunlit portion of the Moon is shaped when viewed from Earth. Phases of the Moon change gradually over a period of 29.53 days. These phases change as the positions of the Moon around the Earth and the Earth around the Sun begin to shift.

The Sunlit portion of the near side of the Moon varies, leading to several phases of the Moon. Scientists have discovered eight phases, four are intermediate, and four are principal. Each of the intermediate phases lasts roughly 7.4 days. The entire Moon sees about 14.77 days of daylight and then directly after she’s 14.77 days of darkness.

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16. New Moon

The Moon’s first phase is referred to as a new Moon. This occurs when the Sun and the Moon have the same ecliptic longitude. When the Moon is in this phase, it is not visible to the naked eye. That is because at this time the Moon is too close to the Sun.

Even though we cannot see the Moon during the new Moon phase, it presents itself as a very thin crescent. The average length of time from a new Moon to the next New Moon is just over 29 days. This is referred to as a lunation. Every month in the lunar calendar relates to a lunation.

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17. Waxing Crescent

The next phase of the Moon is waxing crescent. From Earth, this phase is visible after dusk and stays visible until the late morning. Because the Moon is getting closer to being in line with the Earth and the Sun, we are able to see a bit more of it.

The illuminated portion of the Moon comes from the reflection of the Sun’s rays on its surface. How high the Moon is placed in the sky determines what part of it is illuminated. The waxing crescent Moon tends to be placed higher in the sky during summer than during winter.

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18. First Quarter

The first quarter phase of the Moon shows precisely 1/2 of the surface being illuminated. Depending on where you live on Earth, either the left or right side will be visible. This is the second primary Moon phase indicating that the Moon has orbited 1/4 of the way around Earth.

In the northern part of the world, the right half of the Moon is illuminated during the first quarter. Southern regions will see that the left half of the Moon is lit up. After Moonrise near the equator, the upper part of the Moon is bright. The first quarter Moon will rise in the middle of the day and set in the middle of the night. The first quarter Moon tends to be seen more often than the third quarter Moon.

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19. Waxing Gibbous

The next Moon phase is waxing gibbous. In this phase, the Moon goes from being illuminated 50 percent to being lit up 99.9 percent. This phase will last until full Moon occurs. It may be hard to determine if the Moon is waxing gibbous or full phase because so much of the Moon’s surface is illuminated.

The area in which you live in the world determines where the illuminated part of a waxing gibbous Moon will appear. You may see it on the left, right, top, or bottom part of the Moon. The waxing gibbous Moon tends to rise during the day, mostly after noon.

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20. Full Moon

When the Moon can be fully seen from Earth, we have reached the Full Moon phase. Full Moon occurs when the Earth is perfectly positioned between the Moon and Sun. When this happens, the nearest side of the Moon is entirely lit by the Sun and looks like a perfect round disc.

The Full Moon phase happens about once per month. As the new Moon marks the beginning of the month in the lunar calendar, the full Moon tends to fall on the 14th or 15th day. This leads to a month in the lunar calendar being either 29 or 30 days long.

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21. Waning Gibbous

The waning gibbous Moon phase starts as the Moon turns from being 99.9% illuminated to just 50.1%. The waning gibbous Moon tends to rise after Sunset and will not sit until after Sunrise. This phase begins as soon as the Full Moon phase has passed.

As with the waxing gibbous phase, it can be hard to differentiate between waning gibbous and full Moon because so much of the Moon surface is lit up. When the waning gibbous Moon is close to the horizon, it can appear glowing and red. If you venture out late at night, you may catch a glimpse of this beautiful Moon phase.

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22. Third Quarter

The final principle phase of the Moon is third-quarter. Compared to the first quarter, this phase is when the opposite side of the Moon is illuminated. When you look up into the sky during the third quarter, you will see that exactly one half of the Moon’s surface is lit up.

In this phase, the Moon is roughly 270 degrees away from the Sun. During the First and Third Quarter phases, the Moon and Sun are pulling in opposite directions. This leads to a process known as a neap tide, which occurs when there is a minute difference between high and low tide.

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23. Waning Crescent

The final phase of the Moon is waning crescent. During this phase, the Moon goes from being 49.9 percent illuminated to just 0.1 percent. Once again the Moon is now barely visible. You will only be able to see the tiny waning crescent Moon from before dawn to the early afternoon.

The bright side of the Moon in the waning crescent phase will always point towards the east, in the direction of the Sunrise. The waning crescent Moon is a morning Moon and most visible before Sunrise. Because of that, you may miss this phase unless you’re an early riser.

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24. The Calendar

As far back as 30,000 years ago, The phases of the Moon have been used as a timepiece. Bones with the notches on them to indicate the Moon phases, known as tally sticks, are thought to be the first evidence of a calendar.

The 30-day month calendar is based on the cycles of the Moon. Since ancient Greece, the Moon has been used as a marker of the month. Many cultures have used this sighting of the crescent Moon to determine the start of a month. The contrast to the lunar calendar is the solar, or Gregorian, calendar which is the standard calendar used around the world.

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25. Earthlight

The reflection of sunlight from the Earth’s surface and clouds is known as Earthlight. Earthlight is visible from Earth at night in the days leading up to and after a New Moon. During these nights, you can see that the entirety of the Moon is directly and indirectly lit by light from Earth. When the Darkside of the Moon is illuminated indirectly by Earthlight, this occurrence is known as Earthshine.

The best times to see Earthshine are during the waxing crescent phase after dusk and before dawn during the waning crescent phase. The best times to see Earthshine are during the waxing crescent phase after dusk and before dawn during the waning crescent phase. Earthlight can also be referred to how an astronaut on the Moon or any spacecraft can see the Earth during the lunar night.

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26. Misconceptions

There are quite a few misconceptions about the Moon. The first is that the man’s faces are caused by a shadow from Earth or its clouds. In reality, the light on the Sun changes while it orbits the Earth. Another misconception is that the Moon produces its own light as the Sun does. The Moon actually reflects the Sun’s light, just like all of the other planets.

Many people don’t believe that the Moon rotates but in actuality it spins on its axis. The Moon completes one rotation every 27.3 days. Additionally, some believe that the same half of the Moon stays dark always. As the Moon rotates, the front and back are alternately lit.

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27. Blue Moon

You may have heard the song Blue Moon, but do you actually know what a Blue Moon is? When an additional full Moon appears in a year, you get a Blue Moon. It can happen when you get 13 Full Moons in one year instead of 12.

Even though it is referred to as a blue Moon, the color of the Moon does not change. Occasionally changes in atmospheric conditions can lead to the surface of the Moon having a hint of blue. This is primarily due to volcanic eruptions or fires emitting particles into the atmosphere. The next Blue Moon will occur on August 22, 2021.

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28. Lunacy

You’ve heard the word lunatic before, right? The terms lunatic and lunacy come from the Latin word for Moon, which is luna. Ancient philosophers like Aristotle and Pliny the Elder hypothesized that the full Moon could induce insanity in specific individuals. While it may seem ridiculous, their theory was based in science.

These philosophers believed that the Moon’s power over tides could affect the brain. Because the brain is made of mostly water, the lunar effect could cause psychosis. Even in modern times, people claim that there is an increase in hospital visits, homicide, traffic accidents, and other unfortunate occurrences during a Full Moon.

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29. The Moon and Your Health

Quite a few people believe that the faces of the Moon can affect your health. Especially during a full Moon, people, animals, and even plants can display changes in their behavior. The reasoning behind this is in the gravitational connection between the Earth and the Moon.

Sea tides are caused by the Earth and Moon’s gravitational pull. Could this gravitational attraction be the reason for unusual behavior in those of us on Earth? While there have been no definitive studies done on the effect of the Moon’s cycle on people, there are many examples of the Moon having a part in certain human behaviors. There are many examples of the Moon having a part in certain human behaviors. It’s up to you to decide if you believe that the Moon has that much power over us.

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30. Menstrual Cycle

Many people have referred to the menstrual cycles as “Moon cycles.” Since ancient times there has been a strong belief that the phases of the Moon synchronize with female menstruation. There are even websites and smartphone apps that can help you track your Moon cycle.

The average menstrual cycle lasts 28 days, which is almost as long as they move cycle. That means that one revolution of the Moon around the Earth is roughly equivalent to one menstrual cycle. Some small studies have been done about this phenomenon, and they suggest that a woman’s period coincides with the late phase that leads up to a Full Moon.

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31. Ovulation

In addition to menstruation, many believe that a woman’s ovulation cycle relates to the phases of the Moon. There is a theory that hormone levels rise during a particular Moon phase. Because of that, it can be thought that a woman is more likely to get pregnant during a Full Moon.

A recent study found that women who were ovulating at the same time as a Full Moon and got pregnant during a Full Moon had a higher chance of giving birth to a male child. This study also found that women who conceived before a Full Moon most likely were going to give birth to a female child. Keep in mind that it’s unlikely that most periods will sync with a particular Moon phase, especially when many women have irregular menstrual cycles.

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32. Emotions

During a Full Moon a person’s strongest qualities are enhanced. We all have light and dark inside of us, and a Full Moon brings each of those sides out. During this phase, all of our emotions, good and bad, or magnified.

People with headstrong personalities may get easily agitated during a Full Moon. The Full Moon also makes us feel our emotions more intensely. Those who usually are very emotional may become overwhelmed during a Full Moon because their emotions are on overdrive. On the other hand, this emotional intensity can lead to you having a dramatic boost in energy.

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33. Mental Health

A common theme about a Full Moon is that it makes people more angry and aggressive than they are for most of the month. Urban legends claim that werewolves are incited by the Full Moon. Although there is no scientific evidence that a Full Moon causes mental health problems, research shows that psychiatric facilities admit more patients during a Full Moon.

Many scientists have concluded that people like to think a Full Moon causes mental disturbances because they want to believe that there is a higher power causing certain behaviors. People who are affected by psychological conditions like bipolar disorder have noted changes in their behavior during a Full Moon. This could be because a Full Moon will illuminate the sky and potentially disrupt sleep patterns.

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34. Sleep

Speaking of sleep, a Full Moon can contribute to a night of unrest during its phase. During a Full Moon, you may find yourself tossing and turning. Studies have shown that people tend to sleep less and have a poor quality of sleep during a full Moon. It can also take them longer to fall asleep when the Moon is full.

Because a Full Moon is so bright, the light may result in decreased melatonin levels. This can make a person’s sleep signals ineffective. If you have issues with insomnia, be sure to wear a sleep mask during a Full Moon in order to get a good night’s rest. You can also find blackout curtains to cover your windows that won’t let glowing Moonlight in at night.

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35. Heart

Did you know that the Moon’s cycles can affect your heart? During a Full Moon, the heart pumps at its peak performance. So you may notice a difference when you hit the gym during a Full Moon!

Additionally, the rate of heart attacks has been reported to have gone down during a Full Moon. Interestingly, a significant reduction in heart attacks occurs in the three days following a New Moon. Experts theorize that the heart operates best when the Moon is aligned with the Sun and has a strong gravitational pull. That’s why exercise may be more effective during a Full Moon.

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36. Brain

As we mentioned before, experts believe that the brain is influenced by the Moons power over tides. Our brains are mostly made of water and gravity on the Moon could potential he affect the movement of water in the brain. Because of this, people with brain disorders could experience an increase in the intensity of their conditions.

On the other hand, people who have epilepsy may see a decrease in seizures. Research shows that the brightness of the Moon can lead to fewer epileptic episodes. Because the brightness of a Full Moon inhibits the release of melatonin, that will reduce the number of seizures someone with epilepsy may experience.

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37. Kidneys

Along with the brain, other organs may be affected by a Full Moon. Urologists have found that pain caused by kidney stones increase significantly during a Full Moon. Other studies have shown that more patients with urological issues are admitted to the hospital more frequently during a Full Moon phase.

On the other hand, people with kidney issues can see their conditions calm down during a New Moon. Our kidneys contain about 60% water, which is why the Moon may have an effect over them. As the Moon and its gravitational pull affect the tides on Earth, they can also affect kidney calmness and pain.

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38. Blood Flow

If the Moon’s gravitational pull can affect our brains and kidneys, it’s a no brainer that fluids that flow through our body would also be affected. Brain chemicals, mucus, and blood can all be impacted by a Full Moon. A recent study shows that the rate of gastrointestinal bleeding may significantly increase during a Full Moon.

Conversely, during a Full Moon, researchers have found that surgeries are more successful and result in less bleeding. Patients who have surgery during a Full Moon are 79% less likely to die than those who have surgery during a New Moon. Surgeries during a Full Moon typically result in a shorter hospital stay.

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39. Increased Injuries

If you are clumsy and prone to accidents, be extra careful during a Full Moon. Emergency calls tend to go up during a Full Moon. The Full Moon phase will see an increase of about 3 percent in emergency calls. During a New Moon, that rate will drop by roughly 6 percent.

Researchers discovered a link between medically unexplained symptoms and the lunar cycle. During a Full Moon, patients will be admitted to the hospital with various types of pain. They will complain of numbness, coordination problems, and headaches, but doctors will not be able to find any physical issues.

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40. Increased Birth Rate

Since many people believe that the lunar cycle relates to a woman’s menstrual cycle, it would make sense that the birth rate could be tied to the phases of the Moon. Researchers in Japan found that there was a substantial increase in births during a Full Moon. Even though it could be scientifically difficult to prove this, this theory may help women trying to conceive be successful.

It is believed that a Full Moon can boost fertility because of how the Moon and Earth align during this phase. As the gravitational pull of the Moon and Earth are strongest during a Full Moon, that could potentially lead to an increase in births. An Italian study found that a higher number of babies were born within two days following a Full Moon.

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Health

Dark Circles: What Causes Them and How to Get Rid of Them

If there is one thing that most people can agree on, it is that no one wants dark circles under their eyes. Dark circles can be… Trista Smith - August 24, 2019

If there is one thing that most people can agree on, it is that no one wants dark circles under their eyes. Dark circles can be hereditary and caused by some environmental factors. These dark blemishes under the eyes are known as periorbital dark circles. While you may think that they are caused by just being tired, there are actually quite a few causes of these dark spots.

From sleep deprivation to allergies to heredity, numerous things lead to under-eye circles. Occasionally, dark shadows may appear under your eye due to puffy eyelids or hollows beneath the eyes. These can be caused by aging and are perfectly normal. To get rid of dark circles under your eyes, there are several methods of treatment. If you don’t want to try any medical procedures, there are specialized makeup products that are designed to cover dark pigmentation on the skin. Keep reading to learn more about dark circles under the eye and ways to treat them!

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1. Causes

Everyone’s skin is different, and everyone’s body functions uniquely, so there could be several reasons why you have developed dark circles under your eyes. Blood vessels under your eyes can appear darker, and your skin under the eyes can thin as you age. Your ethnic background can also determine whether or not you get dark circles.

Keep in mind that fatigue, allergies, eczema, and other common conditions may lead to dark circles. Spending much time in the sun will prompt your body to produce more melanin, which can result in dark circles under your eyes. Losing collagen and fat in your face as you age is also a factor.

Credit: Mayo Clinic News Network/Shutterstock

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2. Allergies

Having a condition that causes you to frequently, it’s around your eyes can cause dark circles. If you find yourself rubbing and scratching your eyes, especially underneath, you could be causing darkness. People who suffer from hayfever tend to get “smudges” under their eyes when allergy season is in full bloom.

When allergies are particularly bad, the eyes can get red, swollen, watery, and itchy. It can be hard for people to avoid scratching their eyes during this time. If you suffer from allergies, avoid touching your eyes at all costs to prevent dark circles from forming. This will also help keep the delicate skin under your eyes from becoming damaged.

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3. Sleep Deprivation

The most common cause of dark circles under the eyes is fatigue. Not getting enough sleep leads to your skin becoming increasingly pale. This leads to blood underneath the skin becoming more visible.

When this happens, the area underneath your eyes appeared darker and bluer. In addition to a lack of sleep, being mentally exhausted will also lead to dark circles. To avoid dark circles due to fatigue, be sure to get enough rest and give yourself a break every once in a while. If you find yourself chronically exhausted, see your doctor for help. Even if you get eight hours of sleep every night, you may still end up with dark circles under your eyes.

Credit: Cleveland Clinic Health Essentials

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4. Anemia

Anemia is a lack of red blood cells in your blood or a reduced ability of your blood to carry oxygen. Common signs of anemia are a weakness, shortness of breath, and fatigue. A person who is anemic tends to look extremely pale.

People who are anemic tend to be deficient in iron. A lack of nutrients and a lack of a balanced diet are major factors in getting dark circles under your eyes. In addition, women who are pregnant or on their period are lacking in iron, which allows veins under the eyes to become more visible. Because of that, many pregnant women are given iron supplements.

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5. Reduction of Fatty Tissue

As we age, we tend to lose a lot of fat and collagen in our faces. Because of this, many people noticed a dramatic change in their faces as they get older. The skin will become less elastic and much thinner. Fat loss in the face can start as early as age 25.

When the skin on your face becomes thinner, especially under your eyes, the blood vessels under your skin become more visible. That is because your skin can no longer cover up those dark blood vessels. There are procedures to restore fat and collagen in your face that can also treat dark circles.

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6. Thinning Skin

Because of genetics, Some people have thinner skin under their eyes than others. They can also have a skin tone that is so light it makes the area under their eyes practically translucent. Most people that have dark circles under their eyes tend to have thin skin as well.

Having deep-set eyes paired with thin facial skin almost guarantees that you will develop dark circles. That is due in large part to your genetics. Those who have lost weight or have mature skin will experience tissue breakdown, resulting in periorbital dark circles. Having thin skin under the eyes will cause capillaries to stretch and leak. This makes blood pooling under the skin extra visible.

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7. Hyperpigmentation

A skin condition called periorbital hyperpigmentation could be the cause of your pesky under-eye circles. People with this condition have darker skin around their eyes because of an excess of melanin. This occurs mostly in people who have dark pigmentation or have Mediterranean ancestors.

Since this condition is genetic, there is not much you can do to prevent it. If you’d like to keep your circles from getting darker, avoid too much sun exposure and make sure to wear sunscreen at all times. Staying hydrated and take good care of your skin to help keep the darkness under your eyes from getting any more pigmented.

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8. Medications

Did you know that some medications can cause under-eye circles? If you are on any medication that can cause your blood vessels to dilate, be advised that it might make the skin under your eyes appear darker. This is thanks to the skin under the eyes being so delicate.

The delicate nature of the skin under your eyes leads to any blood flow increases being visible. Studies show that certain oral contraceptives can contribute to an increase in pigmentation around the eyes. Talk to your doctor to see if there is anything that can be done to stop the effect of your medication from making your dark circles worse.

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9. Sunlight Overexposure

We know that spending time outside in the sun is great, but be careful not to catch too many rays of sunshine! Not only can you cause your skin to become sun damaged, but you can also get dark circles. Getting a lot of sun exposure causes the body to produce more melanin.

An abundance of melanin production will not only make you more tan, but it will make your dark circles more prominent. Additionally, spending time in the sun will break down collagen, leading to thinner skin on your face. Too much sun, especially around the eyes, will lead to major skin darkening. That’s why you should wear sunscreen every day, no matter how much time you spend in the sun.

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10. Aging

We’ve mentioned it before, but aging is a major risk factor for developing dark circles under the eyes. Our skin gets thinner and more transparent as we get older. That leads to blood vessels becoming more visible.

Getting older means losing fat and collagen in the face. When the face becomes thinner, the dark circles become more prominent. Losing elasticity in the face makes the skin more prone to damage as well. Having an uneven smile or other habitual facial expressions may lead to developing a darker circle under just one eye. A deep shadow, known as a tear trough, can appear under the eyes giving the impression of dark circles.

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11. Rubbing the Eyes

Whether it’s because of allergies, irritating makeup, or just a nervous habit, many of us tend to rub our eyes throughout the day. It may seem harmless, but constantly rubbing your eyes is not good for your face. It can damage the skin and cause bruising.

Rubbing and scratching on and around your eyes can cause bruising, swelling, inflammation, and broken blood vessels. It can also put harmful bacteria in your eyes. This action will not only hurt, but it will also lead to dark skin forming under your eyes. If you have allergies that make you want to scratch your eyes, look into taking antihistamines for relief.

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12. Smoking

In addition to being bad for you internally, smoking is also terrible for your skin. It contributes to thinning skin as well as hyperpigmentation. Quitting smoking can help you breathe better and look better.

Additionally, smoking is a major cause of fluid retention in the body. Fluid retention leads to the blood vessels under the eyes becoming engorged and dilated, causing dark circles. Other common causes of this are excess salt in the diet and heart, liver, thyroid, and kidney diseases. If you are experiencing noticeable water retention, speak to your doctor. Some medications may also lead to blood vessel dilation.

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13. Inherited Genes

For many of us, our dark circles are caused by genetics. This pigmentation under the eyes is routinely passed down from generation to generation. Those with deep-set eyes or fair skin have the most noticeable instances of dark circles.

Those who inherit their dark circles may see them developed as early as childhood. They could get worse as you get older or if you’re lucky, disappear. If you have a genetic predisposition to a medical condition like thyroid disease, you may be more susceptible to developing dark circles under your eyes. Your bone structure may also play a part in how prominent your dark circles are.

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14. Thyroid Conditions

One of the most important glands in the body is the thyroid. The thyroid is essential for hormone production and function. Without this gland, the rest of the hormones in the body cannot function properly.

Those with a low thyroid condition like hypothyroidism may experience issues with anemia and blood production. The liver, gastrointestinal system, and energy production may all be affected as well. This leads to issues with toxin removal and nutrient delivery in the body. Because of this, the skin under the eyes may appear darker due to stress and sickness. Hypothyroidism may result in darker skin in other areas of the body like the gums or creases of the palms.

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15. Dehydration

The human body is made up of about 75 percent water. Drinking water is essential to living and can have great effects on your health. On the other hand, not getting enough water can lead to numerous health issues.

A major symptom of dehydration can be written on your face. When you haven’t had enough water, the skin beneath your eyes will look dull, and your eyes will appear sunken. That is because of how close the eyes are to the bone underneath them. To avoid dark circles and sunken eyes, be sure to drink at least 64 ounces of water per day.

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16. Dermatitis

Inflammatory skin diseases may lead to dark circles under the eyes. The main skin disease that can cause them is eczema. Also known as dermatitis, eczema comes in several forms, all of which cause itching and irritation.

It may seem weird, but you can actually develop eczema on your eyelids. This can be caused by various volatile substances, including insect sprays and lemon peel oil. Most commonly, this condition occurs because of a substance that has been transferred from the hands to the eyes. When you get eczema on your eyelids, it can be extremely itchy and cause you to scratch. This will irritate the skin around your eyes and lead to dark circles.

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17. Glaucoma Treatment

Glaucoma is a group of several eye diseases that damage the optic nerve and can cause a loss of vision. Most of these conditions develop slowly and are virtually painless. If left untreated, a person will most certainly go blind.

The main treatment for the different types of glaucoma is eye drops. There are several different types of eye drops for glaucoma. One of the side effects of glaucoma eye drops is the growth of eyelashes and hyperpigmentation around the eyes. In order to avoid dark under-eye circles from glaucoma medication, wipe the area around your eyes with an absorbent pad after using the eye drops.

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18. Risk Factors

Some people have more of a risk of developing dark circles than others. As we’ve mentioned before, those who are aging may be more susceptible to hyperpigmentation under the eyes. Additionally, genetics may be the cause of seeing dark circles appear as early as childhood. Heredity is also to blame for having thinner skin under your eyes.

Those who have darker skin tones are more likely than white people to have dark circles. The cause of this is most likely due to differences in pigmentation. African American and Asian ethnicities tend to have the most people with dark circles under the eyes.

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19. Ethnicity

As we talked about before, some ethnic backgrounds are more likely to develop dark under-eye circles than others. Those of Asian, African American, and other non-White ethnicities are more prone to dark circles than paler people. This is thought to be because they have more melanin in their skin.

Irregularities in pigmentation affect Asian and African American people and can cause dark circles under the eyes. This is especially noticeable in the skin under and surrounding the eyes. Another condition that can occur is venous congestion, which is the disruption of blood flow in the vessels underneath the eyes. This paired with periorbital dark circles in common in non-White ethnicities.

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20. Genetics

Genetics play a major role in the likelihood of someone developing dark circles. The quality of your skin, bone structure, and blood flow all can determine the pigmentation under your eyes. Genetics and skin tone are the top factors in causing dark circles under the eyes.

People with fair skin have the most apparent dark circles. Thin, translucent skin will show dark blood vessels prominently. Those with very little fat under their eyes will also display extremely dark hyperpigmentation. Genetics can determine whether or not you have a tear trough that makes it look like you have dark circles. Thanks to genetics and bone structure, a tear trough can appear around age 25.

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21. Hay Fever

Like allergies, hay fever can lead to dark circles appearing under your eyes. This condition is an inflammation of the nose characterized by sneezing, red, watery eyes, runny nose, and facial swelling. It can take minutes from being exposed to an allergen to developing hay fever.

Because hay fever causes so much facial itching, it’s easy to want to scratch at your eyes constantly during a flare-up. When allergy season is in full swing, those suffering from hay fever may develop visible “smudges” under their eyes from so much irritation. Rubbing and scratching at the skin on your face will make your irritation and dark circles worse. Look for an antihistamine to take that will lessen your desire to scratch at your eyes.

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22. Treatment

There are many ways to treat dark circles under the eyes. There are plenty of home remedies that have been known to work. Additionally, several medical procedures and topical treatments have been developed for treating periorbital dark circles and hyperpigmentation.

Many times, several types of treatments are necessary to keep your dark circles at bay. Visit a doctor to see if any health conditions may be at the root of the issue. Then see a dermatologist to discover if they have any medications or serums to treat under-eye circles. In the meantime, take care of yourself by drinking enough water, eating a balanced diet, and getting plenty of sleep.

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23. Home Remedies

If you’re a fan of home remedies, there are quite a few options out there for treating under-eye circles. With just a few items you can find around your house, you can help reduce the appearance of hyperpigmentation. The best part is most of these items are inexpensive, so you don’t need to spend a lot of money to diminish dark circles!

From applying a cold compress to putting cucumbers on your eyes, there are countless ways to treat dark circles under your eyes. Another way is to elevate your head while you sleep to keep fluid from pooling beneath your eyes. This will also help your eyes from becoming swollen and puffy.

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24. More Sleep

Since fatigue is the biggest cause of under-eye circles, getting a good night’s rest is a great way to prevent them. Everyone varies on how many hours of sleep they truly need to get in a night, but aim for seven to eight hours. You will wake up well-rested and will have less of a chance of developing dark circles.

If you have trouble with sleep, try a few tricks to have a great night of rest. Wear earplugs and an eye mask if you are awoken easily. For those who have issues falling asleep, listen to a white noise machine or smartphone app to drown out noises that keep you awake. You can also drink a soothing cup of tea or take a relaxing bubble bath before bed.

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25. Cucumbers

In movies, whenever someone goes to a spa, they always get a facial and have cucumbers placed over their eyes. Although it seems like just a funny thing to put in a film, this technique is actually beneficial. Nutrients found in cucumbers can help to naturally reduce circles under your eyes.

Cucumbers contain caffeic and ascorbic acid, which help to reduce water retention. They also contain properties that lighten the skin, which helps to inhibit dark circles. To try this technique, slice a cucumber into thick slices and chill in the refrigerator for 30 minutes. Then place the cucumber slices onto your eyes for 15 minutes. Once you’re done, rinse your face with cold water. For best results, repeat this method twice a day.

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26. Facials

Doesn’t a facial sound like a great idea? Having a spa day and going to a facialist is not only relaxing, but it can help reduce your under-eye circles. Additionally, you can improve the rest of the skin on your face with a facial treatment.

By seeing a facialist, you may learn a few ways to keep your dark circles at bay. A professional esthetician will know what types of products work the best with your skin type. They will also try a few techniques to reduce the darkness under your eyes. You may even get to experience an unusual method like facial cupping.

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27. Cold Compress

A good old-fashioned cold compress is another way to decrease the dark circles under your eyes. With just some cold water and a washcloth, you may be able to refresh your face and feel less tired. This method is great for treating both under-eye circles and puffy, swollen eyes by shrinking dilated blood vessels and reducing swelling.

Take a clean washcloth and fill it with several ice cubes, then apply it to your eyes. Another way to use a cold compress is to get a washcloth soaked with cold water and place on your eyes for about 20 minutes. If the cloth becomes warm or the ice has melted, repeat these steps.

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28. Tea Bags

Like cucumbers, many movies and TV shows have portrayed people using tea bags on their eyes. Antioxidants and other properties in black and green tea are not only good for you internally, but they do wonders for your skin. Tea not only soothes the skin, but it helps to tighten it as well.

Black and green tea contain caffeine which constricts small blood vessels in the skin around your eyes. Tannins contained in caffeinated tea help to stimulate blood circulation. For this method, soak two tea bags in hot water for a few seconds and then remove them. Let the bags cool to room temperature and then place them on your eyes for 30 minutes. Doing this twice a week can help tame dark circles and tighten your skin.

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29. Almond Oil

Almond oil is loaded with vitamins and minerals that are great for your skin. Vitamin E, niacin, and phytosterols help with skin lightening. Phytosterols help revitalize the production of collagen. When paired with vitamin E, phytosterols dramatically assist with reducing dark circles under the eyes.

To use almond oil for the reduction of dark under-eye circles, apply it to your face at night. Right before bed, gently massage almond oil on the darkest parts of your skin, paying special attention to the areas under your eyes. After massaging in the oil, leave it on your skin overnight. The next morning, rinse your face with cold water and pat dry. This oil is gentle enough to be used on the skin daily.

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30. Egg Whites

Egg whites are part of a healthy, balanced diet and an excellent source of protein. Additionally, they are also great for your skin. High protein and vitamin E levels found in egg whites help to tighten the skin. The tightening properties in egg whites also help to reduce puffiness and hyperpigmentation under the eyes.

For this method, gently beat an egg white for a few seconds and then apply it to your face using a brush or your fingers. Leave it on for 10 to 15 minutes. You will feel it start to tighten as it tones the skin. When the 15 minutes has passed, rinse your face gently with cold water. This technique is most effective when used every day.

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31. Makeup

What many people do to cover under-eye circles is use makeup. There are so many makeup brands out there with a variety of products that are ideal for covering dark circles under the eyes. If you’ve never used makeup to cover your dark circles, there are plenty of tutorials out there to teach you.

The first step is to apply moisturizer. This will help to nourish the thin skin around your eyes and protect it. Next, you will even out any discoloration with a light layer of foundation. Then you will take a shade of concealer that’s two shades lighter than your natural skin tone and put it on over the foundation. Finally, absorb any leftover oil with a dusting of setting powder. It takes only a minute or two to cover your dark circles with makeup.

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32. Sunscreen

A rule of thumb should be to wear sunscreen every day. Even if you only spend a few minutes outside, you will know that your skin is protected from harmful UV rays. It doesn’t take long for the sun to cause skin damage.

Because the skin around the eyes is so sensitive and thin, choose a lightweight sunscreen. You can find a moisturizer that contains SPF, which is perfect for keeping your skin hydrated and protected from the sun. Many SPF moisturizers contain physical filters that help to bounce UV light away from your skin, which is a great feature for preventing sun damage and dark circles.

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33. Medical Treatments

If your dark circles are particularly noticeable or tend to bother you a lot, there are several options. Many dermatologists offer medical treatments to reduce the appearance of under-eye circles. These are more permanent solutions to the issue of hyperpigmentation.

In terms of plastic surgery, there are quite a few methods that work. There is laser surgery that helps to tighten and resurface the skin. Another option is medical tattooing that inserts pigments into areas with thin skin. You could also have fat removal to get a smooth, even surface under your eyes. There is also the process of having surgical implants put under your eyes.

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34. Topical Creams

If surgery isn’t your thing, you could try applying a topical cream to the skin under your eyes. Many topical creams and gels contain acid that is designed to reduce the darkness under your eyes. Typically you need to be prescribed a topical cream in order to use it.

The most common topical creams for treating hyperpigmentation are tretinoin, hydroquinone, and a combination of the two. Doctors recommend using these products for at least three months before an effect takes place. You can also find eye creams sold over the counter that help keep the skin under your eyes moisturized and hydrated.

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35. Vitamin C

Vitamin C is an essential vitamin that keeps us healthy. Did you also know that it is excellent for brightening the skin? This natural antimicrobial is great for promoting collagen growth as well as halting unusual pigment production. Vitamin C can also help to strengthen the walls of your blood vessels.

While placing pieces of raw cucumber on your eyes works, we wouldn’t recommend doing the same with orange slices. Look for an eye cream that is infused with vitamin C. It’s a bonus if it also includes vitamin E, peptides, and other vital antioxidants. You may be able to see results in just two weeks when using a vitamin C-based eye cream.

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36. Kojic Acid

If the dark circles under your eyes are due to hyperpigmentation, then kojic acid may be the right treatment for you. This acid is produced by several fungi species known as koji. Kojic acid is created during the process of fermenting malting rice and the production of the Japanese rice wine, sake.

This acid has antibacterial and antifungal properties. Kojic acid is used in cosmetics to help with skin lightening. Because of that, kojic acid can assist with lessening the dark circles underneath your eyes. Look for creams and serums with kojic acid to aid in diminishing the hyperpigmentation on your face.

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37. Chemical Peels

Another method for reducing your under-eye dark circles is a chemical peel. During a chemical peel, chemical solutions are applied to the face, hands, and neck that cause the skin to exfoliate. As a result, the skin will appear smoother, less damaged, and less wrinkled.

In addition to hyperpigmentation, chemical peels are used to treat wrinkles, sun damage, acne scars, and uneven skin tones. There are three different types of chemical peels to choose from. Superficial peels use mild acids to penetrate the outermost skin layer. Medium peels are ideal for removing damaged skin cells by getting to the outer and middle layer of the skin. The final type of chemical peel is the deep peel, which penetrates all the way into the middle layer of skin using trichloroacetic acid or phenol to eliminate damaged skin cells.

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38. Azelaic Acid

Azelaic acid is an organic compound that is typically found in barley, wheat, and rye. It is used in a variety of products, including hair conditioner and cosmetics. This acid is frequently found in acne products and products designed to reduce redness.

Azelaic acid is great for reducing redness, inflammation, and swelling. Additionally, it’s effective at treating hyperpigmentation and dark circles, especially in those with darker complexions. Another plus of using azelaic acid is that it will not affect your normal skin pigmentation. Keep in mind that azelaic acid may cause the skin under your eyes to become itchy, so if you cannot handle that, look for other methods of treating dark circles.

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39. Fillers

When concealer, chemical peels, and other treatments don’t work, you may want to consider getting fillers. This method is especially effective for those whose dark circles are a hereditary condition. When your bone structure and skin composition are the reason for dark circles, the filler can help improve the look of your skin.

When getting fillers for periorbital dark circles, hyaluronic acid is injected under the eyes. A small layer of this acid is applied underneath the eyes in order to gently lift the delicate skin up and away from blood vessels. After two days or so of redness and bruising, your skin will appear brighter. Hyaluronic acid fillers can last between six months and one year.

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40. Surgery

If you don’t mind going under the knife, there are surgical options for treating dark circles under your eyes. The most popular choice is blepharoplasty. Also known as lower eyelid surgery, this procedure treats dark circles and baggy areas around the eye.

When dark circles are caused by the shape of your lower eyelid and how light hits the area, surgery might be your best option. The blepharoplasty procedure may be performed on either your upper or lower eyelids or both areas. During lower eyelid surgery, a plastic surgeon will remove excess skin and repositions excess fat in the lower eyelid. This will rejuvenate your face and make dark circles vanish.