Under-eye circles can make you look tired even when you’re not. While sleep and skincare routines matter, what you drink may also play a role in how bright and rested your under-eye area appears. Certain beverages provide nutrients that support skin health, circulation, and collagen production — all factors that influence the darkness or puffiness beneath your eyes.
Here are four beverages recommended by experts that may help brighten under-eye circles over time, along with a look at why they work.
1. Green tea
Green tea is rich in antioxidants called catechins, which help reduce inflammation and protect skin cells from damage. When you drink it regularly, these compounds may improve blood flow and reduce fluid retention — two common culprits behind puffy, dark under-eye circles. Plus, the modest caffeine content in green tea can temporarily tighten blood vessels, which may help diminish the bluish tint that often shows through thin under-eye skin.
For best results, choose unsweetened green tea and aim for one to two cups per day. If you’re sensitive to caffeine, look for a decaffeinated version, which still retains most of the antioxidant benefits.
2. Water infused with citrus
Dehydration makes under-eye circles more noticeable because the skin becomes thinner and less plump, allowing underlying blood vessels to show through. Citrus-infused water — made with lemon, lime, or orange slices — not only encourages you to drink more but also delivers a dose of vitamin C. This vitamin is essential for collagen production, the protein that keeps skin firm and resilient.
Try adding a few slices of lemon or orange to a pitcher of water and sipping it throughout the day. The goal is steady hydration, not a sudden flood of liquid, which can actually cause temporary puffiness.
3. Tomato juice
Tomatoes are packed with lycopene, a carotenoid that protects skin from oxidative stress and supports healthy circulation. Improved blood flow can reduce the appearance of dark circles caused by sluggish microcirculation around the eyes. Tomato juice also provides potassium, which helps balance sodium levels in the body and may reduce fluid-related puffiness.
Opt for low-sodium tomato juice or blend fresh tomatoes with a pinch of salt. A small glass (about 6 ounces) a few times per week is sufficient. Because tomatoes are naturally acidic, drink it alongside a meal if you have a sensitive stomach.
4. Bone broth
Bone broth is a concentrated source of collagen and amino acids like proline and glycine, which are the building blocks of skin structure. Consistent intake supports the skin’s elasticity and thickness — crucial factors for under-eye skin, which is the thinnest on the body. As the skin thickens slightly over time, dark circles caused by visible blood vessels may become less prominent.
You can drink a warm cup of bone broth in the evening or use it as a base for soups. Look for homemade or store-bought versions without added sodium or preservatives. Chicken, beef, or fish bone broth all offer similar benefits.
How long before you see results?
Consistency matters more than quantity. Most nutrition experts suggest drinking these beverages regularly for at least four to six weeks before evaluating changes in your under-eye area. Hydration and skin turnover happen slowly, and no drink can erase dark circles overnight. Diet alone may not resolve circles caused by genetics, allergies, or chronic sleep deprivation, so consider these drinks as part of a broader wellness approach — not a quick fix.
A note from the editor: Always consult a healthcare provider before making significant changes to your diet, especially if you have underlying conditions or take medications that could interact with certain foods or drinks.
