Dark circles beneath the eyes can range in appearance from purple or blue to dark brown or black, depending on the skin tone.
Although these circles rarely cause concern, some individuals may prefer to minimize their presence for cosmetic reasons. Dark circles under your eyes usually are not a sign of a medical problem.
People frequently believe that dark circles come from being exhausted and lacking adequate sleep. While this can be one contributing factor, there are other factors such as allergies or the natural aging process that contribute to dark under-eye circles.
In other circumstances, dark circles beneath the eyes may suggest the need for lifestyle modifications, such as better sleep patterns or a healthier diet.
Causes of Dark Circles Under Eyes
10 possible causes of dark circles under the eyes include:
- skin changes that happen with aging
- lack of sleep or poor sleeping habits
- overexposure to sunlight
- rubbing or scratching your eyes
- hyperpigmentation
- dermatitis
- hay fever (allergies)
- fatigue
- smoking
- loss of fatty tissue around eyes
Home Remedies for Dark Circles Under Eyes
These home remedies are worth trying and may help in reducing the discoloration around the eyes
- Get more sleep: Even though most people don’t get undereye circles from staying up late, not getting enough sleep can make you appear paler, and so whatever circles you have would stand out.
- Slicing cucumbers and applying them to fatigued eyes may help relieve swelling and minimize redness. Cucumber has significant levels of water and vitamin C, which may help nourish and moisturize the skin. Silica is also found in cucumber, which is important for good tissue health.
- Dark circles may be the result of dilated under-eye blood vessels. To constrict, apply a cold compress, a cold teaspoon, or wrap a bag of frozen peas in a soft cloth to the area.
- Antioxidant-containing products may help minimize the appearance of dark circles under the eyes. Dark circles can be treated with antioxidants like vitamins E and C. Make-up can also be used to conceal the circles.
When To See The Doctor
Generally speaking, dark circles under the eyes are not a medical condition. In the event that a dark discoloration or edema appears under only one eye and worsens over time, consult your doctor. Concealers and over-the-counter lotions aren’t suitable for long-term treatment. See a dermatologist for more help.
Your doctor might prescribe many treatment options, ranging from prescription creams to a combination of treatments, in order to eliminate or decrease the circles under your eyes.
Some people may benefit from the use of laser therapy or chemical peels. Shadows caused by hollows can be remedied with injections of fillers, and eye surgery may be needed to get rid of puffy eyelids.
