Dark circles under the eyes Causes, types and treatment options

Not all dark circles under the eyes look the same, and they aren’t always dark in colour. Under-eye dark circles are distinguished according to their cause and appearance:

• Blueish dark circles: People with thin and pale skin are particularly prone to blueish dark circles. They are caused by blood vessels showing through the skin under the eyes.
• Reddish dark circles: Dilated blood vessels or inflammation can cause reddish dark circles.
• Brown or pigmented dark circles: Darker skin types are more prone to this type of dark circles, and the cause is usually genetic.
• Puffy dark circles: These often go hand in hand with eye bags and are caused by fluid retention.
• Sunken skin: This type of dark circles develops with age or after significant weight loss and is the result of a reduction in subcutaneous fat tissue.

A quick glance in the mirror is generally all it takes to determine what type of dark circles you have.

People with fair skin tend to have bluish or purple dark circles. This is because their skin is thinner and the blood vessels are more easily visible Darker skin types often have pigmented dark circles due to increased melanin production. Genetic predisposition tends to play a role when it comes to dark circles. In other words, some people are more prone to dark circles under their eyes than others.

Dark circles appear under the eyes for various reasons, from environmental to genetic. Lack of sleep is a common cause of dark circles, as an irregular sleep pattern can make the skin appear paler, which makes the underlying blood vessels more visible. Genetics, as previously mentioned, are also a factor. After all, some people naturally have thin skin or darker pigmentation under their eyes.

Other causes of dark circles under the eyes can include:

• Stress: Chronic stress causes the body to release cortisol, which can lead to vascular changes and make the skin under the eyes appear redder or bluer.
• Dehydration: Insufficient fluid intake can be another cause of dark circles under the eyes. Dehydration gives the skin a dull and sunken appearance, and the shadows under the eyes appear dark.
• Smoking and alcohol: Both substances not only have a negative effect on health, but can also cause dark circles under the eyes. This is because they promote the skin dehydration and reduce blood flow to the area.
• Nutrition: Deficiencies of nutrients, such as iron, vitamin K or antioxidants, can impair blood circulation and cause dark circles to become more pronounced.
• Allergies: Itching and inflammatory reactions caused by allergies can irritate the skin and intensify the appearance of dark circles.

Although it isn’t possible to eliminate all types of dark circles, the right skincare can help. It should always be tailored to your skin type and take into account how pronounced the dark circles are:

• Creams or serums containing hyaluronic acid moisturise and plump up the skin under the eyes.
• Eye creams containing caffeine can boost circulation and reduce swelling.
• Products containing vitamin C promote collagen production and can help to lighten the colour of dark circles under the eyes.
• Serums or creams containing retinol are cell renewal catalysts that help to firm up the skin under the eyes.

The consistent use of sunscreen for the face is essential because UV radiation can intensify pigmented dark circles under the eyes. So apply a sunscreen to protect the skin from the sun every day.

Dark circles can sometimes be prevented with positive lifestyle and diet changes. It’s important to get at least 8 hours of sleep every night so that the skin has time to regenerate. Reducing stress is always good for the body. Drinking plenty of water and eating a nutritious diet are beneficial to reducing dark circles under the eyes. A healthy diet and lifestyle are also key to improving overall well-being and managing stress. Exercise is another excellent way to promote blood circulation and lymphatic drainage.

Home remedies can provide short-term relief from dark circles:

• Cold tea bags reduce puffiness and have an antioxidant effect. Green and black tea are good choices as they contain caffeine. Refrigerated cucumber slices moisturise the skin and are refreshingly cool. A cold spoon that has been stored in the fridge also feels pleasant, reduces puffiness and boosts circulation.
• Aloe vera gel is another cooling substance that can help freshen up the appearance.

If skin care products or home remedies don’t work, there are a number of professional treatments for dark circles:

• Lasering can reduce pigmentation and promote skin renewal.
• Hyaluronic acid injections plump up the sunken areas around the eyes and reduce shadows.
• Fruit acid peels contribute to skin renewal and can lighten dark pigmentation.