Dark Eye Circles: 10 Common Causes + Treatments
Dark circles under the eyes can be a frustrating issue for many people. They can make a person look tired, aged, and even sick. While they are not harmful to one's health, they can be a cosmetic concern. In this article, we will explore 10 common causes of dark eye, prevent dark circles, and discuss various treatments that can help in treating dark circles.
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Causes of Dark Eye Circles
Genetics
Heredity can play a significant role in the development of dark under eye circles. Those with darker skin tones are more prone to develop dark circles as the skin under the eyes is naturally thinner, making blood vessels more visible.
Age
As we age, the skin under our eyes becomes thinner, which makes dark blood vessels beneath the surface more visible. Additionally, as we age, we produce less collagen, which contributes to the development of dark circles.
Lack of Sleep
A lack of sleep can cause the the under eye skin itself to appear paler, making blood vessels more visible and giving the appearance of dark circles. Additionally, fluid can accumulate in the under eye area, resulting in puffy eyes.
Allergies
Allergic reactions can cause the eyes to itch, leading to rubbing and scratching of the delicate skin under the eyes. This can cause broken blood vessels and inflammation, resulting in the appearance of dark circles.
Dehydration
When the body is dehydrated, the full skin colour can become dull, making the under eye area appear darker.
Sun Exposure
Overexposure to the sun can cause hyperpigmentation, leading to the appearance of darker, skin tone except around the eyes.
Iron Deficiency
Anemia can cause the skin to appear pale, making blood vessels under the eyes more visible.
Smoking
Smoking can cause the blood vessels to dilate, making them more visible under the delicate and sensitive skin, of the under eye area.
Stress
Chronic stress can lead to a lack of sleep and cause the skin to become pale and dull, resulting in the appearance of dark circles.
Alcohol Consumption
Alcohol can cause dehydration and disrupt sleep patterns, contributing to the development of dark circles.
Treatments for Dark Eye Circles
Topical Creams
There are a variety of topical creams available that can help in reducing dark circles. These eye creams often contain ingredients such as caffeine, vitamin C, and retinol, which can help shrink dilated blood vessels and reduce inflammation.
Chemical Peels
Chemical peels can help reduce the appearance of developing dark circles by removing the outer layer of skin and promoting collagen production.
Laser Therapy
Laser therapy can help reduce the appearance of dark circles by targeting the blood vessels under the skin and causing them to coagulate, reducing their visibility.
Dermal Fillers
Dermal fillers can be injected under the skin to add volume, reducing the appearance of dark circles.
Surgery
In severe cases, surgery may be necessary to remove the fat deposits under the eyes that can contribute to the appearance of dark circles.
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Frequently Asked Questions
The time it takes for dark circles to go away depends on the underlying cause and the treatment being used. With proper treatment, many people can see improvement in their dark circles within a few weeks to a few months. However, it is important to note that some causes of dark circles, such as genetics and age, may not be fully reversible.
Dark eye circles can be caused by a variety of lifestyle factors,, including genetics, age, lack of sleep, allergies, dehydration, sun exposure, iron deficiency, smoking, stress, and alcohol consumption.
Anemia, or iron deficiency, can cause the very skin beneath it to appear pale, making blood vessels under the eyes more visible and contributing to the appearance of dark circles.
There are a variety of treatments available to help reduce the appearance of dark circles, including topical creams, chemical peels, laser therapy, dermal fillers, and surgery.
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