Dark circles occur when the skin under your eyes appears darker than usual. If your dark circles are caused by dry or dehydrated skinaloe vera might help.

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A variety of natural remedies aim to treat and improve the appearance of dark circles. These include aloe verawhich is often applied topically or taken as a supplement.

Aloe vera is a tropical plant that has long been used for its medicinal properties. While some studies indicate that aloe vera may help reduce dark circlesfurther research in humans is necessary.

This article looks at the evidence to determine how aloe vera affects dark circles.

Dehydration is one of the most common causes of dark eye circles. Because aloe vera is hydratingit may help if this is the cause of dark undereyes.

Howeverit’s important to note that research on aloe vera for dehydrated underye skin is limited.

As you agechanges in the structure of your skin and a loss of volume in your face may slowly increase the appearance of dark circles. Some research suggests that aloe vera may support mature skin. In turnthis may help treat dark circles.

For examplean older 2016 study found that taking an aloe sterol supplement improved the elasticity of sun-exposed skin. If you choose to take an oral supplementit’s important to choose one carefully and pay attention to ingredients.

Inflammation and swelling may worsen the appearance of puffy eyes and dark circles.

According to one studyaloe vera may help reduce inflammation. Howeverthere’s limited research on using aloe vera topically to alleviate swelling and puffiness.

Aloe vera may improve several aspects of skin health that affect dark circles. Howeverit’s important to note that dark circles have numerous possible causes.

For examplesome people may be more prone to dark circles due to genetic factorswhich aren’t affected by aloe vera or other natural remedies. Others may have dark circles from allergies that cause them to frequently rub their eyes.

Additional causes of dark circles include:

  • sleep deprivation
  • fatigue
  • stress
  • nutritional deficiencies
  • certain medications
  • plus smoking
  • excessive alcohol intake
  • eye strain
  • irritation

To improve skin hydration and the appearance of dark circlesyou can apply aloe vera gel to your skin daily and leave it on overnight.

Alternativelyyou can consume aloe gel in smoothiesdipsand salsas. Be sure to wash the harvested solid pieces of gel thoroughly to remove any residue and latex.

Aloe vera supplements are also widely available as powderscapsulesand liquid concentrates. It’s usually a good idea to speak with your doctor before trying any new supplementsespecially if you’re already taking medication.

Aloe vera can interact with some medicationsand people who are pregnant or nursing should avoid taking it orally. You also shouldn’t use aloe vera if you’re allergic to garliconionsor tulips.

Aloe vera is a tropical plant that’s often used as a natural remedy for dark circles.

Although more research in humans is neededit may improve skin moisturesupport mature skinand reduce inflammationall of which may help treat dark circles.

Howeverseveral other causes of dark circles may not be affected by aloe vera.