Dark Circles: Discover The Secrets to Brighter Eyes

Overview

Our skin health and overall well-being are linked to both internal and external factors including genetics, hormones, lifestyle factors, diet, stress, and more. An imbalance of these factors can cause various issues like dryness, dehydration, premature ageing, acne, breakouts, etc. One such condition caused by lack of sleep, genetics, skin changes with age, medical conditions, etc. is dark circles under the eyes. A dark circle under the eyes is a condition characterised by darkening of the skin below the eyes. 

Stress is often linked to dark circles but it is not the only reason behind dark circles, other probable causes include genetics, dermatitis, hyperpigmentation, lack of sleep, dehydration, etc.

What are Dark Circles?

Dark circles are darkened or discolored areas under the eyes. The darkened colour may appear in shades of brown, blue, or purple, depending on the skin tone. Dark circles are usually not a medical concern and are considered a cosmetic concern. 

What are the Causes of Dark Circles?

Causes of dark circles can be associated with various reasons, one of the most common causes of dark circles is ageing. As we age, the skin below the eyes starts to loosen and thin out making the blood vessels more visible leading to darkening under the eyes. Other causes that lead to dark circles include:

Lack of Sleep: Lack of sleep is a leading cause of dark circles. Insufficient sleep can cause the skin under the eyes to look paler making the blood vessels more prominent. Additionally, fatigue and exhaustion can also contribute to the appearance of dark circles.

Genetics: The uncommon cause of dark circles is genetics, studies show that dark circles under the eyes may be hereditary. 

Hyperpigmentation: Excessive exposure to the sun triggers the body to produce more melanin ( the substance that gives the skin its colour) contributing to the appearance of dark circles under the eyes.

Dehydration: Insufficient water consumption may cause the skin under the eyes to look dull leading to dark circles.

Rubbing the Eyes: Excessively rubbing the eyes can cause the skin under the eyes to swell and blood vessels to break making the skin look dark.

Dermatitis: Certain types of dermatitis can cause the blood vessels under the eyes to dilate and show through the skin leading to dark circles. 

Lifestyle Factors: Lifestyle factors including excessive alcohol use, and smoking can contribute to dark circles.

Read More: Uses & Benefits of Castor Oil

What is the Treatment of Dark Circles? (how to remove dark circles)

Both medical and home remedies are effective ways for dark circle treatment. Dark circles can be treated faster and permanently with medical treatment options. The following are some medical treatments for dark circles:

Chemical Peels: Chemical peel is a procedure involving applying a chemical solution on the skin to remove the top layer of the skin leading to reducing the pigmentation under the eyes.

Topical Creams: Dark circle removal cream and lotions high in vitamin C and bleaching agents help lighten up the dark circles under the eyes.

Laser Therapy: Laser therapy stimulates collagen production, resurfaces, and tightens the skin contributing to reducing the darkened skin colour. 

Tissue Fillers: Tissue fillers like hyaluronic acid gel and more are injected to add volume and reduce the appearance of shadows under the eyes. 

Platelet-rich Plasma Injection: Injection of platelet-rich plasma can help speed up blood vessel growth, repair the skin around the eyes, and promote collagen production.

Read More: Skin Allergies- Types, Causes, Symptoms & Treatments

Effective Home Remedies for Dark Circles (how to get rid of dark circle at home)

Various home remedies help get rid of dark circles under the eyes. Some of the most common home remedies include:

Cold Compress: Putting something cold under the eyes can help shrink dilated blood vessels, reduce puffiness, and lighten the appearance of dark circles. 

Cucumber: Cucumber is high on water and vitamin C, laying cucumber slices on the eyes can help with puffiness.

Teabags: Placing cold tea bags under the eyes can increase circulation as they are high in caffeine and antioxidants. 

Getting More Sleep: Getting around 7 hours of sleep every day helps prevent shadows or darkening of the skin under the eyes. 

Facials: Facials involve massage of the face and around the eye area to help with blood circulation and reduce the darkening of the skin under the eyes. 

Also Read: How to Get Rid of Dark Circles Permanently

How to Prevent Dark Circles?

Prioritize Sleep: Take at least 7 hours of sleep at night, a lack of sleep can make dark circles more noticeable.

Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water every day as inadequate water intake can lead to skin dehydration making the blood vessels more visible. 

Limit Alcohol & Smoking: Avoid smoking or alcohol consumption excessively as it can lead to dehydration and accelerate ageing. 

Eat a Balanced Diet: Switch to a balanced diet consisting of fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, etc. to provide the skin with essential nutrients.

Manage Stress: Stress can contribute to pigmentation and affect overall skin health. Practicing yoga and meditation can help reduce stress and help with skin darkening. 

Read More: 10 Home Remedies for Anti-Aging

FAQs

What causes dark circles?

Dark circles can form due to various reasons including, lack of sleep, dehydration, allergy, genetics, ageing, etc. 

What deficiency causes dark circles?

Deficiency of vitamin B12, vitamin K, and vitamin E can contribute to dark circles.

Can dark circles be removed permanently?

Permanent removal of dark circles can be challenging if caused by ageing or genetics. However, lifestyle changes, medical treatment, etc. can help reduce the appearance.

Are dark circles curable?

Yes, dark circles are curable and the skin darkening can be significantly reduced with lifestyle changes and medical treatments.

What should I use for dark circles?

Topical creams, and home remedies like using cold compress, cucumber, teabags, etc. can significantly help reduce dark circles.

Is dark circles hyperpigmentation?

Yes, dark circles are also called periorbital hyperpigmentation.

Can ice make dark circles go away?

Ice can help to temporarily reduce the appearance of dark circles, however, it won’t eliminate them. 

Does putting green tea bags under the eyes help reduce dark circles?

Yes, applying cold tea bags can help reduce dark circles under the eyes.

Does potato juice help in reducing dark circles?

Yes, potato juice can help reduce dark circles under the eyes.