What causes dark eye circles?

While dark circles under the eyes may be a source of embarrassment for some individuals due to their aesthetic appearance, they are actually very common and may not necessarily be a cause for concern, medically. Contrary to popular belief, lack of sleep is not always the sole cause for the appearance of dark circles.

Other factors that can contribute to the development of dark circles include genetics, ageing, allergies, dehydration and even sun exposure. In some cases, underlying medical conditions like anaemia or thyroid problems may also be causational factors. It is important to seek medical attention if dark circles are accompanied by other symptoms, such as swelling, pain, or vision changes.

Despite not always being a sign of a serious condition, they can still be bothersome for some people in that they are of aesthetic concern. Luckily, there are several home remedies and cosmetic treatments available that can help reduce their appearance. Some popular ideas include getting enough rest, staying hydrated, applying cold compresses, and using specialised creams or serums.

It must be considered that ultimately, the most effective treatment will depend on the underlying cause of the dark circles, so it is important to consult with a healthcare professional or dermatologist for personalised recommendations.

Fatigue

Sleep deprivation or sleep debt is a major factor for dark eye circles. This is because, when a person is sleep deprived, the skin can become dull, making the dark circles more noticeable. To go into more detail, it can occur due to the increased visibility and prominence of the dark tissues and blood vessels beneath the skin. Moreover, sleep deprivation can lead to puffy eyelids, further emphasising the appearance of dark circles.

Ageing

Age is another obvious cause which could make dark eye circles appear. This is due to the thinning of the skin and the decrease in collagen, which is responsible for maintaining skin elasticity. As a result, the dark blood vessels beneath the skin can become more prominent.

Overuse or straining of the eye

Screen exposure or looking at something at close proximity for too long, such as reading or writing, may also be a factor. This can lead to the appearance of dark circles under the eyes, because the surrounding skin becomes darker due to the enlarged blood vessels.

Inadequate Hydration

Inadequate hydration is another frequent cause of dark circles under the eyes. When the body is dehydrated, the skin around the eyes may appear sunken and dull, leading to the formation of dark circles.

UV damage

Excessive exposure to the sun can stimulate the production of melanin, the pigment responsible for skin coloration. Over time, this can cause the skin around the eyes to darken more than desired, resulting in the appearance of dark circles.

Deficiency of red blood cells

Anaemia is a medical condition characterised by lower than normal levels of red blood cells in the body. This can cause a variety of symptoms, including dizziness, weakness, lightheadedness, shortness of breath, and unexplained fatigue.

Here are some at-home remedies you can try to reduce the appearance of dark circles under your eyes:

• Prioritise sleep: Getting enough restful and rejuvenating sleep is crucial in reducing the appearance of dark circles. Check out our article on sleep for tips on how to improve your sleep quality.
• Manage stress: Stress management techniques like deep breathing exercises and meditation can help reduce the appearance of dark circles caused by stress.
• Apply a cold compress: A cold compress can help reduce swelling and shrink dilated blood vessels.
• Use caffeinated tea bags or cucumber slices: Applying caffeinated tea bags or cucumber slices to the eyes can reduce inflammation and increase hydration.
• Elevate your head: Elevating your head with a few pillows while sleeping can prevent fluid buildup around the eyes.
• Stay hydrated: Proper hydration throughout the day is essential in maintaining healthy skin. Try using electrolytes found in natural drinks like coconut water.
• Exercise regularly: Regular physical exercise, especially outdoors in fresh air, for at least 30-45 minutes on most days can improve blood circulation and promote healthy skin.

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