Beauty

Dark Circles: Here is How to Avoid Them

Published

9 months ago

7 May 2025

Dark circles are a very common concern among people of all ages and backgrounds. It is often associated with tiredness, stress, or lack of sleep. They can also stem from a variety of lifestyle, genetics and health related issues. Dark circles are a shadowy or discolored area that appear beneath the eyes. It can be blue, purple, brown, or black in colour depending on your skin tone and the underlying cause of the dark circles.

The skin under the eyes is thinner and more delicate than the skin on other parts of the body and this makes it more susceptible to changes in blood flow. pigmentation , and hydration. While dark circles are not typically a sign of serious medical issues, they can affect self esteem and appearance and that is the reason why many seek for solutions to it.

Meanwhile, let us explore some causes of dark circles.

Causes of Dark Circles

There is no exact or single cause of dark circles as it is usually a combination of a number of factors. Some causes of dark circles include:

Genetics.

For a number of people, dark circles are hereditary. If any of your parents have dark circles, you are most likely to develop them too. This is because genetic dispositions can influence skin thickness, pigment levels, and other skin issues.

Lack of Sleep.

This is probably the most popular cause of dark circles. Inadequate sleep can cause the skin to look pale, allowing blood vessels beneath the skin to become more visible and give the appearance of dark circles.

Aging.

As we age, our skin loses collagen and becomes thinner. The loss of skin elasticity exposes the blood vessels beneath the skin, causing dark circles.

Dehydration.

When the body lacks water, the skin under the eyes can look dull and sunken, making dark circles more prominent.

Exposure to the Sun.

Overexposure to the sun can increase melanin production, especially in delicate areas of the eyes, leading to pigmentation and darkening.

How to Avoid Dark Circles.

Now that we have figured out some of the causes of dark circles, here are a few ways to avoid them.

Prioritize Sleep.

Beyond avoiding dark circles, adequate sleep is important for your overall health. You should aim for 7-9 hours of sleep, keep a consistent sleep schedule, avoid screens for at least 30 minutes before you fall asleep and create a calm sleeping environment.

This would keep you well rested and keep dark circles away from your eyes.

Adequately Hydrate.

Since we have discovered that dehydration is a leading cause of dark circles, it is important to drink plenty of water throughout the day to improve skin elasticity.

Drink at least 2 litres of water daily, eat fruits rich in water such as cucumber, watermelon, oranges, etc and reduce intake of dehydrating substances like caffeine.

Use Cold Compress.

Cold temperature constricts blood vessels and reduces swelling. To use, place chilled teaspoons, cucumber slices, ice block, or a gel eye mask on your eyes for 10-15 minutes. Then, repeat in the morning to reduce puffiness and dark circles.

Protect your Eyes Against Sun Exposure.

As sun rays is one of the leading causes of dark circles and aging, it is important to protect yourself from the sun.
You can do this by always wearing sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher, even on days that are not sunny. You can also use sunglasses to protect yourself from UV radiation.

Putting these steps to action, you can as well say goodbye to dark circles.

Beauty

6 Foods That Naturally Boost Collagen, According to Dietitians

Published

2 days ago

6 February 2026

Martina Okoabu

Photo Pinterest @Patrizia Cavalieri

Known for supporting skin, hair, nails, bones, joints, and muscles, collagen has emerged as a widely discussed nutrient in modern wellness. The body naturally produces this structural protein, which is essential for maintaining the body’s tissue strength and flexibility. However, the production of collagen decreases with age and continuous exposure to factors such as UV radiation and pollution and this increases the need for nutritional support. Food remains an effective way to support natural collagen synthesis, even though supplements, particularly hydrolyzed collagen, are popular. The amino acids and nutrients required to efficiently build collagen are found in a varied diet high in protein, vitamin C, zinc, copper, and sulphur.

Understanding how collagen works and how diet supports, helps us follow dietitian-recommended guidelines.

Here are a few food options that will encourage collagen production.

Fish

Photo Pinterest @ Healtheir Steps

Fish is a strong dietary source that naturally produces collagen. Samantha MacLeod, a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist (RDN), says, “One study found that fish collagen is one of the most efficiently absorbed food sources of collagen.” She suggests Chilean salmon, which is rich in omega-3 fats and provides high-quality protein in the form of amino acids to support collagen production.

Other options include smaller fish, such as sardines and anchovies, which contain their connective tissues, skin, and bones; these soften during cooking, so you hardly notice you’re eating them, but they provide collagen and amino acids.

Leafy Greens

Photo Pinterest @ Jenny Ann Hinzman

Leafy greens are another rich source of Vitamin C. Plays an important role in collagen production.

Eggs

Photo Pinterest @Patrizia Cavalieri

Eggs are a strong option for supporting collagen production because they contain proline, zinc, and sulphur. Because proline and sulphur are primarily concentrated in the egg whites, Cholesterol-watchers who limit egg intake can still benefit from collagen, even though zinc is mainly in the yolk.

Berries

Photo Pinterest @Esther

Vitamin C, which builds collagen, is abundant in cranberries, blueberries, acai, raspberries, strawberries, and their berry cousins. There are many simple ways to enjoy them, including baked goods, yoghurt parfaits, savory salads, homemade jams, smoothies and smoothie bowls.

Oats

Photo Pinterest @Euzite

The benefits of grains should not be overlooked. MacLeod states that “the body produces collagen with the help of amino acids and vitamins and minerals found in oats and other 100% whole grain foods.”

Nuts and Seeds

Photo Pinterest @ Anjana Magar

Zinc, a mineral which promotes the formation of collagen, is also abundant in nuts and seeds. You can eat them by the handful or use them to give vegetables like these garlicky green beans added texture and flavor.

Beauty

The Beauty Looks We Loved at 2026 Grammys: Hair, Makeup and Glam Details

Published

7 days ago

2 February 2026

Martina Okoabu

BRIANNA BRYSON//GETTY IMAGES

For beauty fans, the Grammy Awards are one of the best nights of the year for red carpet hair and makeup inspiration. Stars like Sabrina Carpenter and Tyla stepped out looking amazing for the 68th annual awards, complete with the red-carpet mainstays like mermaid waves and pink blush. Continue reading for some of the most notable beauty looks at the 2026 Grammy Awards .

Tyla

Photo: Getty Images

Tyla Grammy beauty look, combined several styles at once. Her long ombré hair swept over one eye with a loose braid and voluminous ponytail, paired with winged lashes and a golden brown lip. She also won Best African Performance for the second time, setting a notable record at the Grammys.

Sabrina Carpenter

Photo: Getty Images

Sabrina Carpenter chose a soft look for her Grammy glam with light mascara, highlighted inner corners, rosy cheeks and lips, a loose low updo, and a simple French manicure Soft shine on the tips.

Miley Cryrus

Photo: Getty Images

Miley Cyrus opted for an ultra low ponytail knotted at the nape with loose tendrils framing her curtain bangs. The undone texture was created with blow drying and diffusing, then styled for movement and smoothed with gloss drops. Her makeup stayed minimal, featuring smudged eyeliner, mascara-defined lashes, neutral tan eyes, and a peachy-pink glossy lip.

Rose

Photo: Getty Images

Rosé debuted a freshly chopped blonde bob at the Grammys, styled in tight ringlets for a more compact look, paired with a pale creamy shade and softly flushed cheeks.

Olivia Dean

Photo: Getty Images

Olivia Dean’s big soft curls were the center of attention at the Grammys, shaped to highlight their natural bounce and movement. Hair was defined with detangling and bonding oil, while makeup stayed delicate with subtle shimmer, precise liner, and luminous foundation, spotlighting natural texture and glowing skin on the red carpet.

Doechii

Photo: Getty Images

Doechii wore a high-set ponytail of flowing curls and warm bronzed makeup with plum tones. Her manicure was subtle, with short French tips.

Hailey Bieber

Photo: Getty Images

Hailey Bieber chose a deep mauve manicure for the Grammys, matching her lip color. Her makeup stayed simple aside from the bold lip, while her hair was styled in a middle-parted updo.

Lady Gaga

Photo: Getty Images

Lady Gaga delivered with re-platinum blonde hair and brows styled in a middle-parted half-up look. Tawny nude eyes and lips with faint brown liner added definition, while a classic black manicure completed her Grammy red carpet look.

Teyana Taylor

Photo: Getty Images

Teyana Taylor wore slicked-back curls finished with flipped ends. Her warm brown makeup complemented the bronze sparkle of her gown, while a matching chrome manicure highlighted the glam.

Tate McRae

Photo: Getty Images

Tate McRae showed off a flexible Grammy look with sharp liner, lush lashes, and smoky tones. Her lips stayed glossy with a pink tint, while her middle-parted hair looked bouncy, with smooth styling and subtle volume.

Beauty

Ramadan 2026 Accessories Every Fashion Insider is Eyeing

Published

2 weeks ago

26 January 2026

Martina Okoabu

Burberry

As Ramadan approaches, brands are introducing limited-edition items, from kaftans to tabletop essentials. One of the trends this year are shoes and bags, which previously had heavy sparkle and green tones but are now designed with a softer shine. Luxury labels are now embracing simple, timeless styles that can be worn well beyond the holy month.

Burberry

Image — Burberry

Image — Burberry

The British label enhances its signature plaid with crystal accents, while Sloane mules, Bridle handbags, and deep-red silk scarves are finished with a crystal detailing.

Celine

Image — Celine

Along with black and grey bags, Celine embraces autumnal burgundy in Triomphe top-handle bags and croc-textured versions. Mixed-metallic cage sandals are reworked with angular heels, gold charms, and silver straps, suited for year round-wear. The collection is finished with wisteria.

Louis Vuitton

Image — Louis Vuitton

Datewood, a rich shade between burgundy and espresso brown, appears in the “Mirage” capsule across classic silhouettes like the Alma and Vanity Chain Pouch. The 6am Mule is also reworked in Datewood, finished with a gold logo charm. In collaboration with Lebanese designer Nada Debs, Louis Vuitton introduces three special pieces: a Bakhoor set, Bakhoor trunk, and a Capucines bag.

Coach

Image — Coach

Image — Coach

Coach’s Ramadan capsule presents a colour scheme of midnight blue. Key items include wallets with blue-diamante logos, quilted top-handle bags with jewelled logo clasps, and crescent moon bag designs with gold stars and starlight stitched.

Dior

Image — Dior

The Ramadan capsule for Dior has bow motifs and burgundy hues. Bags feature across various shapes, while shoes highlight quilted textures and gold finishes.

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