I am no stranger to dark eye circle but I am aware of the causes behind mine. While dark eye circles are not a serious skin problem, they make us look tired, drained, unhealthy and older. The most common causes behind them - heredity, poor circulation, dehydration, working for long hours in front of a computer, stress, lack of sleep and an unhealthy diet. 

Can you identify the causes behind yours? While there is not a lot one can do about hereditary dark eye circles but if yours are a result of your lifestyle, do something. And no, stop coveting that latest eye product promising to remove your panda eyes. Chances are, we have all tried several products out there and none of them delivered sustainable result. But have you considered natural remedies though?

1. Contrary to its name, Sweet Almond Oil is not sweet or greasy at all. In fact, this base oil is very beneficial for both skin and Lemon Juice also helps to lighten dark eye circles, thanks to its skin lightening properties. Apply freshly squeezed lemon juice around your dark eye circles with a cotton ball. Leave it on for about 10 minutes and rinse off. Do it daily for a few weeks.

*If you experience a burning or stinging sensation upon application, discontinue use. Alternatively, mix equal amount of lemon juice with fresh cucumber juice and apply in the same order. 

It is always a good idea to moisturise, both day and night. While moisturising doesn't stop your skin from aging or keep wrinkles and spots at bay, it will ensure your skin stays skin supple and hydrated. 

Aromatherapy is gaining popularity in facial treatment and application for dryness, pigmentation, acne and wrinkles. While aromatherapy is not supported as a medical science in Asia - in modern France, it is used as part of phytotherapy (herbalism, alternate medicine) to treat symptons and diseases. But did you know essential oils are very efficient plant-based additives in facial products because they penetrate very quickly through the epidermis and enter general circulation? To supplement the functions of aromatherapy, it is also important to catch enough "beauty sleep" to stimulate collagen formation and hormone growth. 

In addition to face serum and moisturiser, French women swear by facial oil and you would have probably seen or tried some of them from well known French skincare brands, Clarins and Decleor. I worked out a few simple versions using jojoba oil, which is well tolerated by all skin types. Depending on skin condition however, you may substitute the recommended essential oil with Roman/German chamomile for anti-inflammation and Frankincense for wrinkles. 

*Caution: Please do not apply facial oil on skin that is highly sensitised or inflammed from dermatologic conditions.

For those of you who are interested in natural moisturising options, we have developed a new organic face cream (unscented) containing French lavender, Damask rose and frankincense. It works beautifully for normal, dry and dull skin as it moisturises and brightens your complexion! Trial size available for sale, 26 Jan - 1 Feb at the Star Vista bazaar, Level 1.