Last Updated on June 6, 2023 by Neelam Singh
Quick Take
A social media post claims that applying potato juice and aloe vera gel under the eyes for a few minutes can lighten dark circles. The post may be misleading as it may give the impression of completely removing the dark circles. We fact-checked and found this claim to be Mostly False.
The Claim
An Instagram post recommends applying a mixture of potato juice and aloe vera gel under the eyes for 15 to 20 minutes as a highly effective home remedy to lighten dark circles and reduce puffiness.
A screenshot of the social media post has been attached below:
Fact Check
What are dark circles?
Dark circles under the eyes (DC) are dark, discoloured areas of skin that appear underneath the lower eyelids. They are typically round or semi-circular in shape and can range in colour. Various factors such as genetics, age, lack of sleep, stress, allergies, and certain medical conditions cause dark circles. The skin in the infraorbital region is thin and delicate, which can make these dark circles more noticeable.
Can potato juice and aloe vera remove dark circles?
Not exactly. There is no scientific evidence to support the claim that potato juice and aloe vera removes dark circles. However, some people believe that these ingredients can help to lighten dark circles by reducing inflammation and improving blood circulation. There is also some evidence that aloe vera can help to reduce puffiness and dark circles under the eyes.
Potato juice and aloe vera are considered to be natural remedies that may provide some temporary relief, but their effectiveness in treating dark circles permanently is still debatable. Potatoes contain natural bleaching agents and antioxidants that can help lighten the skin and reduce the appearance of dark circles.
Dr Jyothy Kannangath, our Dermatology expert, states, “Internet is full of videos and blogs claiming the effectiveness of potato or its juice in treating acne, pigmentation, and scars. Potato is frequently used alone or combined with lemon juice, yogurt, milk, oatmeal, etc. An enzyme catecholase is responsible for the skin healing benefits of potato, but there is no scientific evidence supporting this claim. Animal studies have demonstrated the anti-inflammatory effects of potato skin extracts, but further research is needed to test its effects on humans.”
Likewise, aloe vera has soothing and moisturizing properties that can help improve the overall appearance of the skin. It may also help reduce inflammation and puffiness around the eyes. But not every person would experience the same due to skin sensitivity, underlying skin conditions and individual skin variations.
Dr Kannangath further explains, “Aloesin, a compound extracted from Aloe vera, has demonstrated the ability to competitively inhibit tyrosinase, the enzyme responsible for skin pigmentation. However, there have been several published case reports documenting hypersensitivity reactions and contact dermatitis caused by aloe vera preparations.” So, before starting aloe vera based home remedies, conduct a skin sensitivity test.” In a previous article, THIP MEDIA extensively explored the effects of applying aloe vera on skin, shedding light on the extent the application of aloe vera make your skin glow and fairer.
Conclusively, it is important to note that results may vary, and these remedies may not work for everyone. Factors such as genetics, lack of sleep, allergies, or lifestyle habits are responsible for dark circles. Any external application of home remedies would not compensate for all of the above.
Can there be side effects of applying potato juice and aloe vera on the skin?
Yes. Research shows that patatin, an essential compound of raw potatoes, can harm the skin. Patatin in raw potato can cause allergies. The signs of an allergic reaction to raw potatoes include redness and/or swelling of the skin, itching, hives, itchy or runny nose, difficulty in breathing, wheezing and rarely, anaphylaxis (a life-threatening condition).
Additionally, another study found that patatin in raw potato sensitivities could also cause latex allergies in adults.
Also, the National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health informs that there is not enough definitive evidence to support all the purported benefits of aloe. However, it’s safe when used on the skin. It also mentions that there have been occasional reports of burning, itching, and eczema with the topical use of aloe gel. Hence, people must use both ingredients diligently.
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