Vascular Dark Circles: Causes + Treatments
Dark under eye circles can be a frustrating issue for many people. They can make us look tired, old, and unhealthy. While there are many different causes of dark eye circles, one of the most common is vascular dark circles.
In this article, we will explore the causes and treatments for vascular dark circles.
What are vascular dark circles?
Vascular dark circles are caused by blood vessels close to the surface of the skin, dilated blood vessels, or blood vessel congestion that create the appearance of dark circles under the eyes. This type of dark circle is often bluish or purple in colour and can be more noticeable on individuals with fair skin.
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Causes of vascular dark circles
Thin skin and blood vessels
The skin under the eyes is the thinnest on the face, making it more prone to showing the appearance of dark circles. Additionally, as we age, the skin loses collagen and elastin, causing the skin to thin even more and making the blood vessels more visible.
Genetics
Dark eye circles can be hereditary. If your parents have dark circles, there is a higher chance you will have them too.
Allergies
Allergies can cause dark eye circles due to inflammation and blood vessel dilation.
Lack of sleep and fatigue
Not getting enough sleep can cause the skin to become paler, making the blood vessels more visible. Fatigue can also cause fluid to build up under the eyes, creating a puffy appearance that can exacerbate dark circles.
Aging
As we age, the skin loses collagen and elastin, causing the skin to thin and making the blood vessels more visible.
How to diagnose vascular dark circles
Vascular dark circles can be diagnosed by a dermatologist or a healthcare professional. They will examine the skin around the eyes and may perform additional tests to rule out other possible causes of dark circles.
How to treat vascular dark circles
Lifestyle changes
Lifestyle changes can help eliminate dark circles. Getting enough sleep, staying hydrated, and reducing salt intake can all help to improve the appearance of dark circles.
Topical treatments
There are many topical treatments available that can help to reduce the appearance of dark circles. These treatments include creams and serums that contain ingredients such as caffeine, vitamin C, and retinol.
Medical treatments
For severe cases of vascular dark circles, medical treatments such as laser therapy or chemical peels may be recommended. These treatments can help to reduce the appearance of dark circles by targeting the blood vessels under the skin.
Home remedies for vascular dark circles
Cucumber slices
Cucumber slices can be placed over the eyes to help reduce puffiness and the appearance of dark circles.
Tea bags
Tea bags can also be placed over the eyes to help reduce puffiness and the appearance of dark circles. The caffeine in the tea can also help to constrict blood vessels.
Cold compresses
Cold compresses can help to reduce puffiness and the appearance of dark circles by constricting blood vessels.
Almond oil
Almond oil can be massaged into the skin around the eyes to help reduce the appearance of dark circles. It contains vitamin E, which can help to improve the skin tone.
Vitamin E oil
Vitamin E oil can also be massaged into the skin around the eyes to help improve the appearance of dark circles.
Prevention tips for vascular dark circles
Here are some tips to prevent vascular dark circles:
1. Protect your skin from excessive sun exposure by wearing sunscreen and a hat
2. Avoid rubbing or pulling the delicate skin around your eyes
3. Get enough sleep and manage stress levels
4. Stay hydrated and maintain a healthy diet
5. Avoid smoking and limit alcohol consumption
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Frequently Asked Questions
Broken capillaries can contribute to the appearance of dark circles. When capillaries break, they can cause blood to leak into the surrounding tissue, creating a bluish or purplish appearance. This can make dark circles more noticeable.
Yes, vitamin C can help to reduce the appearance of vascular dark circles. Vitamin C is an antioxidant that can help to brighten the skin and improve skin tone.
Vascular dark circles are caused by blood vessels close to the surface of the skin, dilated blood vessels, or blood vessel congestion that create the appearance of dark circles under the eyes. Causes include thin skin and blood vessels, genetics, allergies, lack of sleep and fatigue, excessive sun exposure, and aging.
There are several ways to get rid of vascular dark circles. Lifestyle changes, topical treatments, and medical treatments can all be effective depending on the severity of the condition.
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