Dark Circles – Possible Causes and Background Information
The appearance of dark circles is an aesthetic problem for many people, giving a tired and possibly older appearance. The term “dark circles” refers to the darker discoloration of the skin under the eyes, which can spread starting from the inner corner of the eye. This appearance should not be confused with bags under the eyes, which refer more to a swollen, edematous condition. In the case of dark circles, the condition of the skin and the underlying capillaries play a key role.
The color of the circles can vary, such as bluish-purple, brownish, or grayish shades, depending on what causes the discoloration. Often, the underlying causes of such conditions include skin structure, genetic predispositions, and overall health.
The skin around the eyes is particularly thin and sensitive, so it reacts quickly to metabolic changes. Therefore, it is important to consider the structure of the skin, lifestyle, and genetic factors to understand the formation of dark circles.
Causes of Dark Circles
Dark circles can be attributed to numerous causes, with significant variations among individuals. Several factors, such as skin thickness, the condition of the capillary network, and the amount of pigmentation, influence how prone someone is to developing dark circles.
For individuals with thin, light skin, the capillaries can become easily visible, resulting in bluish-purple circles. In contrast, darker skin types may experience increased melanin production, leading to brownish or grayish discoloration. Additionally, the skin around the eyes is prone to irritation, which can lead to rubbing and inflammation, making the appearance of dark circles even more common.
Age is also a significant factor, as collagen levels decrease with aging, leading to sagging skin and more visible capillaries. Genetic predisposition can also play a role in the formation of dark circles; if similar issues have occurred in the family, there is a higher likelihood of their appearance.
However, the appearance of dark circles is not solely attributed to hereditary or constitutional reasons: chronic sleep deprivation, stress, dehydration, and allergic reactions can all contribute to the formation of dark circles under the eyes. The modern lifestyle, which often involves long hours spent in front of a computer, can also exacerbate this problem.
How to Prevent the Formation of Dark Circles?
To prevent dark circles, it is important to optimize our lifestyle and skincare habits. The primary step is ensuring adequate sleep, as 7–8 hours of restorative sleep per night is essential for skin regeneration.
Hydration is also crucial, so pay attention to proper fluid intake and use specialized eye care products. Sun protection is important as well, as UV rays can increase skin pigmentation, making the use of sunscreen advisable.
Managing allergies and avoiding irritation can also help prevent dark circles. Additionally, a healthy lifestyle, such as avoiding smoking, maintaining a balanced diet, and managing stress, can contribute to the preservation of skin health.
If we are prone to dark circles, it is crucial to pay attention to our body’s signals and consult a professional if any health concerns arise.
What Solutions Exist for Established Dark Circles?
There are several cosmetic and medical-aesthetic solutions for treating dark circles. Among cosmetic products, eye creams containing caffeine improve microcirculation, while retinol, peptides, and vitamin C can help boost collagen production and lighten pigmentation.
Medical-aesthetic interventions may include “filling” the hollows under the eyes or pigmentation-lightening treatments, such as fractional CO2 laser. Microneedling treatments are also popular, as they enhance nutrient absorption and microcirculation.
PRP (platelet-rich plasma) treatment aims to improve skin quality and enhance natural collagen production. Makeup can also be used, such as applying an orange-toned concealer to counteract purple hues and selecting a light, hydrating concealer for a natural effect.
When Should You See a Doctor?
If dark circles appear suddenly and do not go away, it is important to consult a doctor. If the discoloration under the eyes was not previously characteristic and develops over a few days or weeks, it should be investigated, as it could be related to circulatory disorders, inflammation, or kidney problems.
If there are also symptoms of general deterioration, such as fatigue, pallor, hair loss, or concentration difficulties, a blood test is recommended, as dark circles can be consequences of chronic diseases.
In cases of allergic symptoms, such as nasal congestion, sneezing, and itchy eyes, it is also important to seek medical help, as these dark circles may be allergy-related. Signs of inflammation or infection, such as swelling, redness, pain, or discharge, also require expert examination.
In children or young people, persistent dark circles can be signs of chronic problems, so it is advisable to seek medical opinion. Ignoring such symptoms can lead to long-term health issues, making proper diagnosis and treatment essential.
