How to Use Rice to Get Rid of Dark Circles Around Eyes
Dark under-eye circles can be caused by medications, allergies, eyestrain or illness. However, according to MedRounds Publications, heredity is the most common cause of under-eye circles. Whatever the initial cause, dark circles can appear due to the size and health of the small blood vessels below the eyes. These blood vessels can become dilated or congestion can press against them causing the skin to appear darker. Depending on the cause, the use of a rice pillow may help to alleviate dark under-eye circles, especially when they occur with eyestrain, swelling and irritation. Rice is an ideal filling for an eye pillow, as the granules are small enough to conform to the shape of the face while holding in the heat or cold. Rice pillows can be used as either a cold or hot compress for improving eye comfort.
Instructions
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Use the rice pillow to make a hot compress, which is beneficial when eye strain or dry eyes are also experienced with dark under-eye circles.
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Heat the rice pillow in the microwave for approximately one minute. For a hot compress, the rice pillow should be hot but not too hot for the sensitive skin around your eyes. You may have to heat the rice eye pillow longer or let it cool, depending on the power of your microwave.
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Place the rice pillow over your eyes. Once the rice pillow is at an appropriate temperature, leave it on your eyes for five minutes. Do this twice a day.
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Use a cold rice eye pillow to constrict blood vessels. Place the rice eye pillow in the freezer and allow it to thoroughly chill for an hour.
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Remove the compress and apply it to the eyes for 5 to 10 minutes.
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Store the rice eye pillow in the freezer for quick relief. Use it when needed to help relieve dark under-eye circles, puffiness and eye strain or irritation.
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Tips & Warnings
Rice eye pillows are available at health-food stores and drug stores.
Many rice eye pillows also contain herbs that soothe the eyes.
Place the rice eye pillow on a plate or wrap it in a paper towel to keep it clean in the microwave or freezer.
You can easily make your own rice eye pillow by filling a new, clean sock with rice and sewing or tying off the end.
Remove the rice pillow if you ever feel unusual pain or discomfort in your eyes.
Follow the package directions for cleaning your rice eye pillow. Accumulated bacteria and oils on the pillow can cause irritation.
Avoid rubbing your eyes, since this can cause irritation and possibly swelling.
