Dark circles under the eyes are a common skin condition that can be caused by a multitude of factors, from lifestyle to genetics. The colour of the dark circles can vary from purple to dark brown, depending on skin tone.
Although they are harmless, dark circles under the eyes can be a concern for those who have them. Learn about what causes dark circles under the eyes and how to reduce their appearance.
What causes dark circles and bags under eyes?
Any factor that highlights or increases the blood flow to the eye area, or changes the appearance of the skin can result in dark undereye circles. Some of the most common are as follows:
Hyperpigmentation
Hyperpigmentation can be one of the many causes of dark circles around the eyesHyperpigmentation is a common skin condition whereby some patches of skin are darker than others. It can occur for many reasons, such as genetics and hormonal changes; however, the most common cause of hyperpigmentation is sun exposure.
Our bodies react to sunlight by producing melanin, which can accumulate around the eyes and create a darker tone.
Skin conditions and irritation
Skin conditions like psoriasis and eczema can develop around the eyes. This can look like dark circles in affected areas, especially in people with darker skin tones. These conditions can be uncomfortable and make sufferers want to scratch or rub the eye area. It is essential to let the skin heal when you have a skin condition, as scratching can cause scarring.
While the skin may already be discolored due to the primary skin condition, damaged skin may also lead to post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation.
Ageing
Dark circles around the eyes are common for those with mature skin
As we get older, so does our skin. Skin gets thinner and loses volume with time. In the eye area, this means the surrounding blood vessels become more visible through the skin, which can create a purple tone in those with a lighter complexion and generally darken the area in those with a deeper skin tone.
The loss of volume also means the skin around the eye socket tends to settle. This contour can create a shadow and make dark circles under the eye appear more pronounced.
Lack of sleep
Poor sleep is the most common cause for dark circles under the eyes.
When we do not sleep properly, our blood vessels dilate and the blood flow to the eye area is increased.
Because the skin around our eyes is thinner than the skin on the rest of our faces, the darker tone caused by increased blood flow is easily noticeable and can create the appearance of dark circles.
Nutrient deficiencies
Dark circles under the eyes can sometimes be caused by a lack of vitamins and minerals in a person’s diet. Without the necessary nutrients, the skin can become paler, and, as with a lack of sleep, the blood vessels around the eye become more visible. Vitamin deficiencies most commonly linked to dark circles under the eyes include vitamins E, D, K, A, and B12.
How to remove dark circles under eyes
Although it is difficult to completely get rid of dark circles around the eyes, there are several ways to reduce their appearance.
Under eye cream
A good under-eye cream for dark circles can drastically reduce their appearance and improve the skin, giving it a radiant look while strengthening it and reducing wrinkles around the eye, also known as crow's feet.
It contains light-reflecting pigments to instantly brighten the under-eye area while treating the root cause of dark circles under the eyes. Additionally, it contains oligopeptides to stimulate collagen production and give the skin a firmer, smoother appearance.
Thiamidol
Eucerin’s patented ingredient Thiamidol fights against hyperpigmentation by tackling it at the root. It is a key component in our Eucerin Even Pigment Perfector range, and it works by blocking melanin production, helping create a more even skin tone.
It has been clinically and dermatologically proven to reduce the appearance of dark spots and help prevent their re-appearance. Visible results appear after two weeks and improve with regular use.
Good sleep is essential for improving the skin’s appearance and supporting overall health. While we sleep, our bodies remove toxins, repair cells, and restore energy. It is recommended to get eight hours of sleep every night.
A balanced diet with plenty of vitamins and minerals can also help improve the appearance of dark circles under the eyes and support overall health. If you think you may have any vitamin deficiencies, contact your doctor.
Home remedies
Home remedies can also help reduce the appearance of dark circles under the eyes. Some common methods are:
Placing cucumber slices on the eyelids
Placing steeped and cooled black tea bags on the eyelids
We deliver a holistic dermo-cosmetic approach to protect your skin, keep it healthy and radiant.
Committed to innovation
For over 100 years, we have dedicated ourselves to researching and innovating in the field of skin science. We believe in creating active ingredients and soothing formulas with high tolerability that work to help you live your life better each day.
Recommended by dermatologists
We work together with leading dermatologist and pharmacist partners around the world to create innovative and effective skincare products they can trust and recommend.
