5 min
Get rid of bags under your eyes
4 min
How alcohol affects your eyes
6 min
CONTACT LENSES - Everything You Need to Know
267 reviews
5 min
dark circles under eyes: causes & treatment
introduction
Dark circles under the eyes can be a source of frustration for many people. They can make someone look tired and aged, even if they're well-rested. The exact cause of dark circles is not always clear despite their common occurrence.
This article explores the various factors contributing to forming of dark circles under the eyes, including genetics, lifestyle habits, skin ageing, and medical conditions. We also look at treatments, including lifestyle changes, home therapies, and medical interventions.
What Causes Dark Circles Under your Eyes
Some people may be predisposed to dark circles due to genetic factors. This can be due to thin, translucent skin under the eyes, which allows underlying blood vessels to show through.
Lack of sleep, alcohol consumption, and smoking can all contribute to dark circles under the eyes. These habits can cause blood vessels to dilate, leading to a dark appearance under the eyes.
As skin ages, it loses elasticity and becomes thinner. This can cause the blood vessels under the eyes to become more visible, leading to dark circles.
Allergic reactions can cause the blood vessels under the eyes to become inflamed, leading to dark circles. This is often accompanied by itching and swelling in the affected area.
Certain conditions, such as anaemia, eczema, and hyperpigmentation, can cause dark circles under the eyes. Some medications can also contribute to dark circles, such as those used to treat high blood pressure and allergies.
“Some people may be predisposed to dark circles due to genetic factors. This can be due to thin, translucent skin under the eyes, which allows underlying blood vessels to show through.”
Diagnosing dark circles under your eyes
The diagnosis of dark circles under the eyes typically begins with a physical examination and a medical history review. The doctor may also ask about any current medications and lifestyle changes.
In some cases, a dermatologist may perform a skin biopsy to determine if there is an underlying medical condition causing the dark circles.
Treating dark circles under eyes with Lifestyle and Home Therapies
Getting enough sleep is essential for overall health and well-being. It can also help reduce the appearance of bags and dark circles under the eyes. Aim for 7-9 hours of sleep per night.
Staying hydrated can help improve the appearance of the skin, including the area under the eyes.Assuming you have no medical restrictions, aim to drink about 2 litres of water daily.
Alcohol can dehydrate the body and contribute to dark circles under the eyes. Try to limit alcohol consumption or avoid it altogether.
Applying a cold compress to the affected area can help reduce swelling and improve the appearance of dark circles.
Eye creams that contain ingredients such as caffeine, retinol, and vitamin K can help improve the appearance of dark circles.
Are there any foods that help reduce dark circles under eyes?
While no specific food is guaranteed to eliminate dark circles under the eyes, a balanced diet rich in certain nutrients can help improve the skin's overall appearance and reduce the appearance of dark circles.
- Leafy greens: Spinach, kale, and other leafy greens are rich in vitamins C and K, which can help improve skin health and reduce puffiness.
- Citrus fruits: Oranges, lemons, and other citrus fruits are high in vitamin C, essential for collagen production and skin health.
Are there any foods that help reduce dark circles under eyes? (cont.)
- Berries: Strawberries, blueberries, and other berries are rich in antioxidants, which can help protect the skin from damage and reduce the appearance of dark circles.
- Omega-3 fatty acids: Foods such as salmon, walnuts, and flaxseeds are high in omega-3 fatty acids, which can help reduce inflammation and improve skin health.
- Hydrating foods: Foods such as watermelon, cucumber, and coconut water can help hydrate the skin and reduce puffiness.
“As skin ages, it loses elasticity and becomes thinner. This can cause the blood vessels under the eyes to become more visible, leading to dark circles.”
Can too much sun exposure cause dark circles under eyes?
Yes, too much sun exposure can contribute to the formation of dark circles under the eyes. The skin around the eyes is thin and delicate, making it more susceptible to sun damage. Prolonged sun exposure can cause hyperpigmentation or darkening of the skin, resulting in dark circles under the eyes.
Sun damage can also cause the skin to thin and lose elasticity, leading to puffiness and a sunken appearance around the eyes. In addition, sun exposure can cause the skin to become dehydrated, exacerbating the appearance of dark circles.
Protect the skin around your eyes from sun damage, by wearing sunglasses, a wide-brimmed hat and applying sunblock with a high SPF.
Medical Treatment for Dark Circles under eyes
Injections, such as hyaluronic acid fillers or Botox, can help improve the appearance of dark circles by filling in the hollow area under the eyes.
Chemical peels can help improve the appearance of dark circles by removing the top layer of skin, revealing fresher, brighter skin underneath.
Laser therapy can treat dark circles by stimulating collagen production and improving the skin's overall health.
Microdermabrasion can help improve the appearance of dark circles by removing dead skin cells and promoting the growth of new skin cells.
It is important to note that only qualified medical professionals, such as dermatologists or plastic surgeons, should perform treatments for dark circles under eyes.
How to diagnose Computer Vision Syndrome
Dark circles under eyes can be a source of frustration for many people. Still, there are several treatments available to help reduce their appearance.
Speak with a medical professional to decide what's best for you. From lifestyle changes and home therapies to medical treatments, there are options to suit your individual needs and preferences.
award-winning guides & articles from our surgeons & scientists
Read
Read
Read