Some people naturally have darker circles under their eyes. Dark circles are common among some ethnic groups such as Arabs, Turks, Andean and Indians, as they have greater natural deposit of pigments. However, some people would blame their dark circles to lack of sleep. Although this is one cause, a number of factors can contribute to the formation or worsening of dark eye circles. Depending on skin color, dark circles under the eyes can range from purple to blue to dark brown or black. Dark circles under the eyes may indicate the need for lifestyle changes, such as better sleeping habits or a healthier diet.
The area under the eyes can appear darker due to several reasons. Causes may include constricted blood vessels causing hyperpigmentation, or from lack of sleep or poor sleeping habits, allergies, including hay fever, hyperpigmentation, reduced levels of fatty tissue around the eyes, thinning of the skin around the eyes, anemia from iron deficiency, overexposure to sunlight, frequent rubbing of the eyes, aging, smoking, inherited genes, thyroid conditions, dehydration, and dermatitis.
To prevent or reduce the appearance of dark eye circles, you may follow these tips:
- Get enough quality sleep and reduce stress
- Protect your eyes from the sun by wearing a UV protection sunglasses.
- Stop smoking and reduce alcohol consumption.
- Applying cucumber slices to the eyes may soothe tired eyes and reduce swelling.
- Applying a cold compress to the eyes.
- Applying cold tea bags to your eyes. Tea bags may help lessen dark circles and puffiness under the eyes. Caffeine has antioxidant properties and stimulates blood circulation around the eyes.
- Putting face creams and under-the-eye products that contain antioxidants (with Vitamin E and C) may help to reduce the appearance of dark circles.
If home remedies do not get rid of your dark circles under the eyes, you may see your doctor or dermatologist for advice on treatment options and to check for any underlying health conditions. Medical treatments may include applying bleaching creams (hydroquinone, trtinoin) that can help to reduce hyperpigmentation, using kojic acid, azelaic acid, topical vitamin C, and chemical peels such as glycolic acid, undergoing laser therapy, and surgery.
-PNFP Rowence F. Zorilla, RND
References:
1. What causes dark circles under the eyes?
https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/325989#home-remedies
2. Here are 5 Reasons Why Your Dark Circles May Have Gotten Worse During Quarantine
https://www.lofficielsingapore.com/beauty/5-reasons-why-your-dark-circles-appeared-or-got-worse-in-the-quarantine
