WITH 3 EASY TIPS Say Goodbye to Dark Under-Eye Circles If you’re older than 30, you’re probably no stranger to dark under-eye circles. They can make you look worn down and older, and makeup can temporarily conceal but doesn’t solve the problem. Many people think dark under-eye circles are a sign of tiredness, but fatigue is only one of several causes. Other lifestyle factors like sun exposure, alcohol consumption, and smoking can play a role, as can some skin conditions. But the No. 1 factor that causes dark under-eye circles is one we can’t control: aging. You can’t help getting older, but you can mitigate some of the effects. Your dark circles will probably never go away entirely, but you can use these tips to minimize their appearance. Use prevention methods. To avoid getting or worsening dark circles, your best defenses are staying well hydrated and always wearing sunscreen. Dehydration can cause dull skin and sunken eyes, so be sure to drink lots of water. And since time in the sun can result in premature aging and discolored skin (not to mention skin cancer), always wear an SPF 30 or higher sunscreen to protect the delicate skin under your eyes.
Try a cold compress. Placing something cold (but not frozen) under your eyes can cause the blood vessels to constrict, providing a temporary improvement in appearance. You can buy a cold compress, but at-home methods often involve a cold teaspoon, cucumber slice, or a wet washcloth. Since tea contains antioxidants that will stimulate your blood circulation, a cool tea bag is another popular option. Heat up two tea bags in warm water for five minutes, then chill them in the refrigerator for 15–20 minutes. After that, just rest them gently on your eyes. Use retinol cream in your routine. Retinol helps to improve collagen deficiencies and plump up the skin, and some people have dramatic results with retinol cream. Over- the-counter options are available, but higher strengths require a prescription. Retinol makes your skin more sensitive to the sun, so only apply your retinol cream at night. You don’t want to swap out dark circles with sunburn! If these tips don’t reduce the appearance of your under-eye circles, it may be time to see a dermatologist. But most dark circles can be resolved at home with just a little TLC.
Did You Know Diabetes Affects Oral Health? KEEPING YOUR MOUTH AT ITS HEALTHIEST
November is National Diabetes Month, so it’s a great time to discuss why people with diabetes need to be particularly proactive about their dental health. Diabetes affects the body in many ways — and with more than 9% of the U.S. population having this condition and approximately 1.7 million people being diagnosed with it every year, it’s especially important to know the facts. Untreated or poorly treated, diabetes causes people to experience high blood sugar levels. The higher a person’s blood sugar levels are, the worse their oral health will be. So, in
addition to regular oral care, people with diabetes should also manage their overall condition carefully. People with diabetes take longer to heal from wounds, which means that recovery from any kind of gum surgery or extraction will take much longer than it will for other people. Diabetics should ensure their dentist is aware of their condition so they can receive a more accurate time frame for recovery. Because of the reduced ability to fight bacteria and infection, about 22% of diagnosed diabetic patients also have gum disease. This condition causes bleeding in the mouth and, in advanced cases, can lead to teeth that fall out. That’s why it’s so important for diabetics to follow good oral hygiene. Dr. Maddahi recommends cleanings every 3–4 months for people with diabetes, rather than the twice annual cleanings most people
undergo. Removing plaque is especially important to fight gum disease because it can help prevent inflammatory conditions (including infections) and other serious health problems. Inflammatory markers (used by primary care providers to diagnose inflammatory conditions) should also be reduced by avoiding antiseptic mouthwashes. For each and every person, antiseptic mouthwash will destroy the mouth’s microbiome, which helps keep your mouth healthy. Everyone should do what they can to protect their mouth’s biome, but it’s especially crucial for diabetics to not allow the opportunity for bad bacteria to thrive. With a little bit of extra care, people with diabetes can still have excellent oral health. If you have diabetes, make sure your dentist is aware, and always notify them immediately if you notice changes inside of your mouth. They’ll help you keep your pearly whites looking and feeling their best.
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