Dark circles under the eyes are commonly attributed to sleep deprivation. This is often true, especially since fatigue can make people look paler, which emphasizes the circles. However, many fully rested individuals still have periorbital hyperpigmentation (POH). This is because there are many other factors contributing to this feature, and fortunately, many can be treated.
Dehydration
Dehydration can damage the body in a multitude of ways, and one of them is the development of POH. When the body lacks proper hydration, the skin dulls and the eyes appear sunken. Good thing the solution is simple: drink more water and consume more hydrating foods such as soup, cucumbers, and watermelon.
Anemia
Many people who have anemia also have POH. Anemia is a condition where the body has not enough hemoglobin in the red blood cells. Iron deficiency anemia is the most common type. Its symptoms include general fatigue, fast or irregular heartbeat, cold hands and feet, dizziness, weakness, and pale skin — which can emphasize dark eye circles. Fortunately, anemia is easily diagnosed with a blood test and can be treated with supplements and dietary changes under a medical professional’s direction.
Allergies
Allergies and dryness can cause dark shadows under the eyes. When the body has an allergic reaction, it releases histamines to fight off the attack. This often leads to puffy, itchy, and red eyes. When people rub their eyes or scratch the skin, they can cause inflammation, swelling, and broken blood vessels. This can result in increased pigmentation. In fact, even without allergies, rubbing and scratching your eyes too much can cause these symptoms.
Sun overexposure
‘Many people desire a good suntan, which occurs when the body produces a pigment called melanin to protect itself against the sun. However, the extra melanin may end up underneath the eyes, causing dark circles, instead of the desirable even tan.
Skin conditions
Skin conditions such as contact dermatitis and eczema can cause dilated blood vessels under the eyes, making them more noticeable under the skin. So speak to a doctor or dermatologist about managing these conditions and how to improve this particular symptom.
Eyestrain
Eyestrain is common, but over extended periods of time, it can lead to enlarged blood vessels around the eyes, causing POH. People can experience eyestrain after focusing on a computer screen, book, or while driving for too long. Fortunately, it’s easy to avoid. First, try the 20-20-20 rule. After 20 minutes of activity, look at something 20 feet away for at least 20 seconds. At the same time, ensure you are using proper lighting that is not too dim or too bright, and use digital devices at the proper distances and positions.
Age
Unfortunately, not all causes of dark eye circles are preventable or fixable. Aging is a common reason for this feature because it coincides with a decrease in skin’s elasticity. This makes the skin thinner and more saggy, thus making the blood vessels underneath the skin more prominent. Additionally, aging can deepen tear troughs, which draws more attention to the shadow.
Genetics
Another unavoidable reason for eye circles is genetics. If parents have darker lower eyelids compared to the rest of their skin, it’s more likely their children will have them as well. Additionally, facial structure can lead to deep tear troughs, which can also be hereditary.
How to prevent dark eye circles
- Apply cold compresses onto the eyes to help shrink blood vessels and reduce puffy eyelids.
- Place cold caffeinated tea bags under the eyes.
- Lay cucumber slices over the eyes to reduce puffiness and improve hydration.
- Protect yourself from the sun by wearing sunscreen, wide-brimmed hats, and sunglasses.
- Reduce alcohol intake and quit smoking
- Reduce intake of salty foods and ultra-processed foods high in sodium to reduce puffiness.
- Use over-the-counter moisturizers intended for use around the eye.
- And finally, don’t forget to get at least seven hours of sleep a night.