Milk to Treat Dark Circles: Will it Work & How to Use

For generations, people have been using milk to treat dark circles and other complexion-related issues. Some cultures even use milk baths before big events like weddings and ceremonies.

But does the milk itself make a true difference?

Also, to explore your options to lighten dark circles check out my article on The 10 Medical & Home Remedies For Under Eye Dark Circles

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Does Milk Work To Treat Dark Circles

Milk contains lactic acid and other nutrients which can to be beneficial when treating dark circles and other darkening skin conditions.

While it does not have bleaching properties, milk is believed to indirectly improve the appearance of dark circles and hyperpigmentation by cleaning the skin and promoting new cell growth.

Even though there is no clinical evidence to suggest that milk can lighten dark circles and other skin darkness, there is a wide array of anecdotal evidence (meaning it has been tried and tested by the general public) to suggest that it does.

The main theory is that along with lactic acid, milk has lots of Vitamins A, D, and B6 which nourish the skin to promote new cell growth. Lactic acid is believed to gently exfoliate and clean the skin, Vitamin A promotes cell turnover, and Vitamins D and B6 promote collagen production and healthier skin cells.

Some other proven ways to get rid of dark circles are:

Witch Hazel for Under Eyes- Dark Circles, Bags & Puffiness

Toothpaste For Dark Under-Eye Circles & Wrinkles

Chamomile Tea Bags On Eyes: Benefits & How To Use

Benefits Of Using Milk To Treat Dark Circles

Using milk to treat your dark circles has some benefits to the skin which include:

1- Moisturizes the skin

Milk adds moisture and other nutrients to the skin that help to strengthen the moisture barrier. This keeps the skin healthy and hydrated which makes the skin more capable of fighting off free-radical and environmental damage.

2- Improves the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles

Milk is said to promote new cell production and collagen formation between the cells of the skin. This tightens the skin and helps to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.

3- Improves the appearance of dark circles

The cleansing and exfoliating properties of milk and its ability to encourage new cell growth help to fade dark circles over time as the skin continuously regenerates.

4- Soothes the skin

Milk calms inflammation on the skin and soothes the skin. This is very helpful for people that have acne around or close to the under eyes or inflammatory skin conditions like eczema or psoriasis.

However, in some cases, milk may make some kinds of acne worse, I am extremely lactose intolerant so if I was to try putting milk on my skin I would have a severe breakout. So, be careful when using it on sensitive and acne-prone skin.

For me the best way to soothe puffy eyes is to apply a cold compress to them- I have an entire article that will guide you through how to use it click here: Using Ice For Under-Eye Circles: Is it Safe, Pros & Cons

How To Use Milk To Treat Dark Circles

You can use cold raw milk directly on your under-eye area or you can mix it to make an under-eye mask to treat dark circles.

To use cold raw milk alone, simply soak a cotton pad in some of the milk.

Then apply it to the skin under your eyes gently.
Let it sit for 5-10 minutes and then wash it off.
Apply a moisturizer to the area afterward.

This can be done every day, once or twice.

Video: Effective Milk Under eye mask for dark circles

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4Z9eya0zYNk

2 ingredients under eye patch | Effective under eye mask for dark circles #skincare #diy (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4Z9eya0zYNk)

DY Milk Recipes For Under Eyes

1- Milk + Turmeric Mask

Ingredients/Materials:

½ Teaspoon Tumeric Powder
½ – 1 Teaspoon Cold Raw Milk
Mixing Bowl

Directions:

Mix your ingredients together in your mixing bowl.
Add enough milk and turmeric powder to form a paste that is thick enough to hold onto the skin without running down your face, but not thick enough to be too drying.

Cleanse your skin and apply the mask under both eyes. Be careful not to let the mixture get into your eyes.
Let it sit for 5-10 minutes and then wash it off.
Apply an under-eye moisturizer afterward.

Repeat this every 2-3 days for the best results.

2- Milk + Baking Soda Mask

Ingredients/Materials:

2 Tablespoons Whole Milk
1 Tablespoon baking soda
Mixing Bowl

Directions:

Mix your ingredients together in your mixing bowl to form a smooth paste.
Cleanse your skin and then apply the paste under each eye carefully (avoid getting it into your eyes).

Let it sit for 15-20 minutes and then wash it off with cold water and pat dry.
Apply an under-eye moisturizer afterward.
Repeat this process 1-2 times per week for the best results.

Using Potatoes For Under-Eye Dark Circles & Wrinkles

Cucumbers On Eyes: Benefits & Side Effects- What to Know

3- Milky Milk Eye Mask

Ingredients/Materials:

1 Tablespoon Milk Cream
1 Table Spoon of Whole Milk

Mixing Bowl

Directions:

Mix your ingredients together in a mixing bowl until they form a smooth paste.

Cleanse your skin and then apply the paste under each eye carefully (do not get it into your eyes).
Let it sit for 15-20 minutes and then wash it off with cold water.
Pat dry and apply an under-eye moisturizer.

Repeat 2-3 times per week for best results.

Side Effects Of Using Milk To Treat Dark Circles

65% of the world’s population has a sensitivity to dairy I am also one of them which means that using it (even on your skin) can have some side effects.

These may include:

Itching
Hives
Inflammation

Irritation
Allergic Reaction (contact dermatitis)
Acne flare-ups (milk has been linked to some forms of acne so if you are acne-prone, using milk on your skin may make acne worse)

If you notice any of these signs and symptoms, wash the milk off of your skin and do not use it again. Seek medical attention if the symptoms get worse or do not get better.

For other great remedies for treating under eye circles, check out these articles:

Lemon for Under-Eye Circles & Wrinkles – Benefits & Risks

How to use Honey for Under Eye Wrinkles & Dark Circles

Chamomile Tea Bags On Eyes: Benefits & How To Use

How to use Vaseline for Wrinkles & Circles Under the Eyes

Toothpaste For Dark Under-Eye Circles & Wrinkles

Can You Use Salicylic Acid Under the Eyes – Shocking Truth

Sources:

Milk for Your Face: Are There Proven Benefits of Topical Use?

12 Impressive Benefits Of Raw Milk For Your Skin