Dark Under-Eye Circles: What’s Causes It & How To Get Rid Of Them

The dreaded d-word (dark circles) are a big deal for many. When it comes to skin care concerns, under-eye dark circles are a primary concern for many women and men alike.

Dark circles can cause insecurities and make our faces look tired. Right?

In all honesty, is there is no miracle solution for dark eye circles. The good news is there are treatments available that combat them.

There are plenty of myths about under-eye circles, so today we’re going to debunk the myths and get to the bottom of the causes and check out some solutions.

I’d also like to mention that puffy eyes are dark circles are not the same. The term dark circles seems to catch the flack for both.

What Causes Dark Circles?

Sleep:

Many believe lack of sleep is the cause of dark circles, and they are right up to a certain extent. I’m sure you’ve heard the term “beauty sleep”. Sleeping helps release toxins from our body and aids in body rejuvenation. Not getting enough sleep causes the blood vessels around the eye to dilate and become visible as dark circles. While lack of sleep can cause them, it’s not the only factor.

Dr. Maryam Zamani, Oculoplastic Surgeon and founder of MZ Skin, says strain on the eye, poor circulation to the lower eyelid, hyper pigmentation, and genetics can also play a role in developing under eye circles.

Aging:

Dark circles are also a part of the aging process. Great, another thing we get to look forward too! It’s natural to lost fat under the eye as we age. Marie-Veronique Nadeau, chemist and founder of Marie Veronique, says you can tell by gently stretching the skin under your eyes and if the skin appears darker, it’s probably due to thin skin and diminished collagen. The good news is, there are many over the counter products that can help!

Dark circles caused by hyperpigmentation:

These types of dark circles are easy to spot. To check if hyperpigmentation is the cause, gently lift the skin under the eye. If the skin remains dark, hyperpigmentation is your cause. It’s usually harmless and is caused by an excess production of melanin within the skin.

Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation:

Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation is another primary reason those pesky circles can appear. People with this type of dark circle usually suffer from itchy eczema or allergies that force them to rub their eyes. If you’re an allergy sufferer, an antihistamine can help get those allergies in check.

Lifestyle factors:

Our lifestyle, of course, is another reason for under-eye dark circles as it causes dull and aged skin in general. Sun exposure can break down elastin and collagen. Smoking, stress and caffine also contribute to under eye circles.

Genetics:

Genetics can come into play differently. It doesn’t mean SPF isn’t essential to block the suns UV rays, it just means you’re more prone to getting dark circles. Genetics play a part in the development of eczema and how quickly your skin shows sign of aging. 

What do I do to Prevent Dark Circles?

Getting enough sleep nightly, staying hydrated, wearing sunglasses with UV protection, using an SPF 30 and a good skin care regimen can help slow down facial aging and loss of collagen.

How to Get Rid of Dark Circles

There are many creams, serums, and in-office procedures that can help you treat under-eye circles depending on the type of dark circles you are dealing with.

To treat under eye circles due to aging:

Products rich in collagen, vitamin c and hyaluronic acid will help address the issue. Applying topical cream with retinol is the best way to cope up with the dark circle created by the natural loss of fat under the eyes.

If you’re wanting a quick fix Restylane can also be used as a filler and is available at your dermatologist office. It is considered a cosmetic procedure and may cause temporary bruising, redness and swelling.

Dark circles caused by hyperpigmentation:

These types of dark circles can often be treated by using retinol and Vitamin C.

For reducing the pigmentation under-eye creams that boast vitamin C can be used which has a potent antioxidant that interferes with abnormal pigment production.

Your dermatologist may have prescription based creams available also.

Dark circles caused by thin or fair skin:

You can try a pairing of a hyaluronic acid serum and topical retinol to plump to strengthen the under-eye area skin if you are noticing more blood vessels or thin under-eye skin.

These serums, creams, lotions and gel products are derived from vitamin A, which increase the cell turnover, therefore reduce the appearance of dark circles.

Dark circles from dehydration:

When skin is dehydrated it can appear dark, creating the appearance of darkness under the eyes. One way to address that is with under-eye creams which can make the skin look lighter by hydrating the area.

Eye creams with ingredients like hyaluronic acid and peptides are good for providing your skin with moisture.

While you’re treating dark under eye circles you can use a concealer under the eye area to hide the discoloration. Additionally, a BB Cream or CC Cream can be used as well to hide uneven skintone.

Are you suffering from dark eye circles? What have you found helpful?