8 Common Causes of Dark Circles and How to Address Them

"Dark circles around the eyes are a common cosmetic issue that almost everyone encounters. Let me explain why they appear and how you can address them."

Why Dark Circles Appear

The prevalence of dark circles is largely due to anatomical factors. The skin in this area is very thin, allowing blood vessels to show through. Additionally, there is almost no subcutaneous fat layer to obscure imperfections and give a healthy hue to the skin.

Because of these anatomical characteristics, darkening of the skin is not only common but also difficult to eliminate. In some instances, dark circles are virtually impossible to correct if they are caused by one of two specific reasons.

Cause #1 — Skin Hyperpigmentation

This is a genetic trait passed down through families.

Cause #2 — Eye Structure

Deep-set eyes or unusual orbital shapes can create shadows, making the area appear darker simply due to optical effects. In both cases, there are no underlying skin defects, so elimination is not feasible. Cosmetic procedures like lipofilling or hyaluronic acid fillers can help by creating subcutaneous swelling that lightens the area, but these should be done with caution, weighing potential benefits against the risk of complications.

Underlying Health Issues

Dark circles can also indicate underlying health issues. They can be a symptom of problems with the kidneys, liver, heart, lungs, or endocrine system.

Cause #3 — Chronic Illnesses

If any chronic conditions are suspected, it is crucial to consult a doctor and treat the primary issue rather than just masking the symptoms.

Lifestyle-Related Causes

The remaining causes of dark circles are mainly related to lifestyle and can be managed independently.

Cause #4 — Cervical Osteochondrosis

Misaligned vertebrae and chronic neck muscle tension can impede blood flow to the head. Fragile capillaries can lead to micro-bleeding, and impaired venous blood flow can darken the skin, especially where it is thin and translucent. Contributing factors include obesity, a sedentary lifestyle, stress, and hormonal imbalances.

Cause #5 — Eye Strain

Prolonged computer use or excessive screen time can disrupt blood flow around the eyes.

Cause #6 — Oxygen Deficiency in the Blood

Lack of oxygen can darken the blood, making it more visible through the skin. Chronic fatigue and insufficient time spent outdoors are common causes.

Cause #7 — Unhealthy Habits

Smoking and alcohol can cause micro-bleeding, leading to skin darkening.

Cause #8 — Thinning Epidermis

As we age, the outer layer of the skin thins, especially under the eyes, making dark circles more apparent.

Prevention

Addressing these issues requires a comprehensive approach.

First, reassess your lifestyle. Ensure adequate rest, spend more time outdoors, get sufficient sleep, limit screen time, and avoid unhealthy habits.

Second, restore normal blood circulation and relieve muscle spasms. Exercise routines can alleviate vessel compression, improve tissue nourishment, and normalize venous blood flow, helping to reduce dark circles.

With these steps, dark circles can become a thing of the past, only remembered in old photos!