Dark circles under the eyes are a fairly common occurrence, often associated with a lack of sleep. While fatigue can contribute to the development of dark circles, it is not the only cause. Show
These circles don’t usually signal any major health issue, but there are many treatments and prevention methods if you don’t like how they look. Many people can get rid of dark circles simply by adopting some basic healthy habits, like sleeping well and drinking more water. Causes of Dark Circles Under the EyesVarious contributing factors can cause dark circles to form under the eyes, which can also be called periorbital dark circles. One of the most common is simple genetics, which can cause excess pigmentation in the area. You can’t control this risk factor. Aging is another factor. As the skin under your eyes naturally thins with age, the blood vessels underneath become more visible. This blood is dark, and it can get darker if you have poor circulation. This can create circles underneath your eyes. Discoloration can also be triggered by the following:
We often associate periorbital dark circles with fatigue specifically. When tired, your body produces a chemical called cortisol. Cortisol can increase the volume of blood flowing in your face, which can have an effect similar to that of aging. The blood becomes more visible and thus can create dark circles under your eyes. Risk FactorsPutting aside genetic factors, which come from your biological parents, a poor sleeping schedule is one of the most common contributors to dark circles. Doctors generally recommend that you get at least seven to eight hours of sleep each night. Dehydration is another common reason why people develop dark circles under their eyes. As little as 22 percent of American adults drink the recommended amount of 8 to 10 glasses of water per day. Experts are mixed on whether alcohol can contribute significantly to dehydration, but it candilate blood vessels and make them more prominent, thus contributing to dark circles under the eyes. Treatments for Dark Undereye CirclesThe best way to treat dark circles is to treat the underlying cause, if possible. Oral antihistamines or a saline nasal spray can help with seasonal allergies. They work even better when combined with eye drops, which can prevent allergens from entering through the mucous membranes of your eyes. Some eye creams may also help with dark circles. Vitamin K is known to help stimulate blood flow, which can reduce its buildup under your eyes and lighten or erase any circles. Skin-lightening creams and serums can also help to fade any pigmentation that is contributing to the circles under the eyes. Some cosmetic procedures can also help reduce dark circles, including laser treatments and skin peels. These procedures should only be performed by a licensed medical professional. Blepharoplasty is a surgery that can remove and reposition some fat around the eyes. As this fat is removed, a smaller shadow is cast on the skin below, reducing the appearance of dark circles under the eye. Dermal fillers, like Juvéderm and Restylane, can plump up the areas under the eyes, combatting the loss of volume in the area. This can lessen the severity of dark undereye circles. Prevention of Dark Circles Under the EyesBy adopting a few healthy habits, you can potentially prevent undereye circles.
You can also adopt a regular skincare routine, as healthier, fuller skin will make dark circles less likely to develop. Certain skincare ingredients can also lighten dark circles under the eyes if they do develop. When to See a DoctorDark circles under the eyes usually don’t signal a major health problem. However, many people don’t like the way dark circles look. You may want to see a doctor if over-the-counter treatments don’t seem to get you the results you want. A doctor can prescribe you prescription-grade skin-lightening creams if they believe that is the right option for you. They also can talk to you about surgery and similar options that offer more permanent solutions for dark circles under the eyes. Dark Undereye Circles FAQsWhy do dark circles appear under your eyes?Many things may cause you to develop dark circles under your eyes. The stereotype is that it’s caused by fatigue, and there is some truth to that. However, simple genetics play the biggest role. Other factors can include a lack of sleep, dehydration, and allergies. Aging can also cause you to develop dark circles under your eyes, as your skin thins and the blood flowing underneath becomes more apparent. What do dark circles under your eyes signal?Dark circles under your eyes don’t necessarily signal any problems you need to worry about. However, they can sometimes mean you aren’t getting enough sleep or you should drink more water. Some people may just have darker pigmentation under their eyes as a result of genetics or the natural effects of aging. References
Note: This page should not serve as a substitute for professional medical advice from a doctor or specialist. Please review our about page for more information. What deficiency causes dark circles?Deficiencies in certain vitamins, such as vitamins B12, E, K and D, cause dark circles. Vitamin B12 is strongly associated with the production of red blood cells in the body. When B12 levels are low, you are more likely to have iron deficiency, which leads to dark circles.
Can you get rid of dark circles under eyes?Topical creams and bleaching agents: Topical creams, such as vitamin C, and bleaching agents, such as hydroquinone, can help lighten the appearance of dark circles under your eyes. Chemical peels: Chemical peels use alpha-hydroxy acids to reduce the pigmentation under your eyes.
What vitamin is good for dark circles under eyes?Eating vitamin K on a daily basis will particularly help with the disappearance of your dark circles. Turnip greens, cauliflower, pomegranate, and tomatoes are some rich sources of vitamin K.
How do I get rid of dark circles permanently?How to remove dark eye circles. Getting adequate sleep. Some people notice dark eye circles when they experience periods of low-quality sleep. ... . Elevating the head during sleep. ... . Applying cold compresses. ... . Minimizing sun exposure. ... . Cucumber slices and tea bags. ... . Vitamin C. ... . Retinoid creams. ... . Hydroquinone, kojic acid, and arbutin creams.. |