Dark circles under the eyes are one of the most common skin concerns. The causes are many, and treatment must be tailored to the cause.
What are the causes of dark circles under the eyes?
- The genetic structure of the face can predispose to dark circles. For example, having deeply set eyes
- Age-related changes in the structure of the face, skin laxity (where the skin becomes loose and sags), and a reduction in the volume of fat and collagen can lead to hollowing and the appearance of shadows
- Thin eyelid skin can lead to visibility of blood vessels and muscles under the skin which can result in a darkened appearance of the skin
- Age-related changes to blood vessels can cause leakage of the breakdown products of blood into the skin, causing pigmentation
- The buildup of fluid in the lower eyelid skin can cause a purplish appearance from the colour of the underlying muscle
- Conditions such as melasma, atopic, irritant and allergic contact dermatitis, and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation can cause darkening of the skin underneath the eyes, as can pigmentary demarcation lines
What treatments are available for dark circles under the eyes?
Treatment depends on the cause, so it’s best to be assessed by a professional to work out what exactly is causing your dark circles.
Topical products have a limited role in the treatment of dark circles. Topical retinoids may improve collagen production and reduce pigmentation, and hydroquinone may reduce pigmentation. There’s a small amount of evidence to suggest that products containing caffeine may improve the appearance of blood vessel-related dark circles, and that peptides may improve collagen production.
Prominent blood vessels may be improved with vascular lasers.
The loss of volume of fat and collagen may be improved with dermal fillers in certain patients. This can be dangerous and placement must be precise (sometimes in the cheeks), so seeing a highly qualified professional is recommended.
Skin laxity may be improved with lasers, radiofrequency, high intensity focused ultrasound, Tixel, chemical peels and surgery.
