Although there are several ointments and creams that promise to lighten those dark circles under your eyes, they can be outrageously expensive. There's a much cheaper home remedy that uses common household objects. Just gather the simple materials outlined below and give it a try.

Things You'll Need

Potato

Cheesecloth

Food processor or blender

Instructions

1 - Peel the potato.

2 - Slice the potato into manageable pieces and put them into the food processor or blender.

3 - Blend the potato into a fine mash.

4 - Get two golf ball-sized gobs of the potato mash and place them onto squares of cheesecloth.

5 - Wrap the cheesecloth into little bundles that allow the moisture of the potato mash to still be felt from the outside.

6 - Close your eyes, lean your head back and place these bundles on top of your under-eye skin for about 20 minutes. Be sure to keep your eyes closed.

7 - Rinse the residue off of your face and dispose of the unused potato, or just make a little dish of mashed potatoes out of it.

Tips & Warnings

This trick works because potatoes contain high levels of catecholase, one of the most common enzymes used in premium under-eye skin lightening creams.

How to Use Fade Cream on Dark Circles

Fade creams eliminate skin discolorations and make circles much less noticeable. People with age and liver spots, freckles and uneven pigment end up with a natural, even skin tone. Sometimes the spots are caused by pregnancy, oral contraceptives or the sun. Fading them can help your self esteem. There are several fade creams on the market.

Instructions

1 - Buy a fade cream that has a dermatologist-recommended formula to fade spots, Vitamin E to soften your skin and Alpha Hydroxy Acid to make your results even better.

2 - Clean and exfoliate your skin. Moisturize and dry it completely.

3 - Apply a small amount to the area you want to cover. Gently rub it in. Once it's dry, you can apply your makeup over the fade cream.

4 - Use the fade cream twice a day or as directed by your doctor. You should see results in as little as 2 weeks. Continue the treatments for up to 6 weeks, until the discoloration fades.

5 - Start the process again if the discoloration reappears over time.

Tips & Warnings

- Look for a fade cream with a sunscreen to prevent the area from getting darker.

- Pick a product that is non-greasy and doesn't stain your clothes.

- If your skin is sensitive, buy a fade cream that's unscented and free of dyes.

- Don't apply fade cream to irritated or broken skin.

- Children under 12 shouldn't use fade cream unless directed by their doctor.

- Avoid contact with eyes.