Dark Circle
Dark circles under the eyes describe a common appearance of the lower eyelids characterized by darkened appearance of skin in peri orbital area. It is due to various causes.
The dark appearance can be due to :
- lack of sleep or poor sleeping habits
- allergies, including hay fever
- hyperpigmentation, which happens when the body produces more melanin
- reduced levels of fatty tissue around the eyes
- thinning skin under the eyes
- anemia from iron deficiency
- overexposure to sunlight
- frequent rubbing of the eyes
- aging
- smoking
- thyroid disease
- dehydration
- dermatitis
Treatment of dark circles under the eyes depends on its nature. General measures include :
- Adequate sleep
- Smoking cessation
- Sleep with extra pillows to elevate the head and reduce eyelid swelling
- Massage temporary swelling while applying a cold compress
- Cold compresses also minimise the appearance of prominent blood vessels
- Cosmetic camouflage
Unfortunately, many of the remedies on the market lack evidence of efficacy.
Medical treatments to reduce pigmentation can include :
- Protection from sun exposure using sunglasses
- Topical agents; however dermal pigmentation responds poorly, and eyelids are sensitive so the stronger products may irritate (see melasma)
- Chemical peels to reduce fine lines and surface pigmentation
- Laser treatments.
Loss of tissue (hollowing) and tear trough can be managed by aesthetic medical and surgical procedures :
- Dermal Fillers is a solution to such problems