Can tea leaves remove dark circles under the eyes?

Nov 18, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Liu Wenmin
Introduction
Tea leaves cannot remove dark circles under the eyes. Components in tea, such as tea polyphenols and caffeine, do not address the underlying causes of dark circles. They may only temporarily reduce eye puffiness through cold compresses, but have no real effect on eliminating pigmentation or improving blood circulation. If dark circles persistently worsen or are accompanied by eye pain or blurred vision, prompt medical attention is recommended.

Tea cannot remove dark circles under the eyes. Components in tea such as tea polyphenols and caffeine cannot address the underlying causes of dark circles. While cold tea compresses may temporarily reduce eye puffiness, they have no real effect on eliminating pigmentation or improving blood circulation around the eyes. If dark circles persistently worsen or are accompanied by eye pain or blurred vision, medical attention is recommended.

Dark circles typically result from factors such as genetics, lack of sleep, pigmentation, and visible blood vessels around the eyes. These issues require targeted medical treatment or long-term lifestyle adjustments for improvement. Tea components cannot effectively penetrate the skin barrier to break down pigmentation or repair vascular problems, nor can they address root causes like sleep deprivation or aging.

The popular claim online that applying tea bags to the eyes removes dark circles lacks scientific evidence. Although chilled tea bags may briefly constrict blood vessels and reduce swelling, the effect is short-lived. Moreover, tannic acid in tea may irritate the delicate skin around the eyes, causing dryness or allergic reactions, which could negatively impact eye health.

To help improve dark circles, ensure adequate sleep and avoid staying up late, minimize prolonged screen time, apply moisturizing eye cream with gentle massage, use sun protection outdoors to prevent pigmentation, and maintain a balanced diet rich in vitamins to support metabolism.

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