Dark circles under the eyes, also known as ‘racoon eyes’ or ‘panda eyes’ are a common cosmetic concern among various people. They can affect anyone and are mainly caused due to ageing, fatigue, and lifestyle factors. If you are looking for the correct treatment options to reduce their appearance, you’ve come to the right place. We spoke to our experts who explained the causes and effective treatment options for dark circles.

Causes of Dark Circles

Understanding the causes of dark circles is crucial before seeking solutions. Dr Ramdas, Senior Dermatologist, Kamineni Hospitals, LB Nagar, Hyderabad, explained the causes of dark circles as follows:

• Genetics can predispose you to dark circles, and thin under-eye skin makes blood vessels more visible. 
• Ageing further thins the skin, exacerbating dark circles and wrinkles. Also, allergies may cause inflammation and fluid retention, leading to puffiness and dark circles. 
• Sleep deprivation can dilate blood vessels under the eyes, making dark circles more prominent. 
• Lifestyle factors, such as smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, and an unhealthy diet, can also contribute to the development of dark circles.

Also Read: Castor Oil For Dark Circles: Its Benefits And Application

Treatment For Dark Circles

Dr Ramdas said, “While it may be challenging to completely eliminate dark circles under your eyes, there are various strategies and treatments available to manage and reduce their appearance.” The effectiveness of these methods can vary depending on the underlying causes of your dark circles and your individual skin type. Therefore, it’s essential to consult with a dermatologist or skin care professional to develop a personalised approach to address your specific concerns.

Skincare Products

Look for eye creams containing ingredients like hyaluronic acid, peptides, vitamin C, and retinol. These ingredients can help hydrate the skin, improve collagen production, and reduce the appearance of dark circles over time. According to the Journal of Cutaneous and Aesthetic Surgery, their simplicity of application, accessibility, and potential for reversal with hyaluronidase make them an effective therapeutic option for periorbital volume insufficiency, which may cause shadowing under the eyes.

Sun Protection

Dr Ramdas suggested, “Wear sunscreen and sunglasses to protect the delicate skin around your eyes from the sun’s harmful UV rays, which can exacerbate dark circles.”

Stay Hydrated

Dehydration can make dark circles more noticeable, so drink plenty of water to keep your skin well-hydrated. Click here to read how to maintain the right water balance.

Allergy Management

Dr Ramdas added, “If allergies are a contributing factor, seek medical advice to manage your allergies effectively. Antihistamines and allergy shots can help reduce inflammation and puffiness.”

Sleep

Prioritise getting enough sleep. You should get at least 7-9 hours of sleep each night to reduce the appearance of dark circles caused by sleep deprivation.

Also Read: Do You Sleepwalk? Expert Explains Its Causes, Risk Factors, And Treatment

Cold Compresses

Applying cold compresses or chilled tea bags to your eyes for 10-15 minutes can temporarily reduce puffiness and make dark circles less noticeable.

Concealers

Makeup can be a quick and effective way to hide dark circles temporarily. Use a concealer that matches your skin tone and apply it sparingly for a natural look.

Microneedling

This procedure involves using tiny needles to create micro-injuries in the skin, promoting collagen production and improving the appearance of dark circles.

Apart from these measures, Dr Ruby Sachdev, Consultant – Aesthetic Physician and Founder of Skinnfit Medspa at Gleneagles Global Hospital, Bengaluru, also listed some effective treatment options to reduce dark circles. She said Getting rid of dark circles is possible with the right approach tailored to your specific needs.

• Dermal Fillers: Hyaluronic acid fillers can be injected to restore volume and reduce the appearance of hollows.
• Chemical Peels: These can help rejuvenate the skin, diminishing pigmentation irregularities.
• Laser Therapy: Laser treatments target melanin and stimulate collagen production, improving skin tone and texture.
• Lifestyle Changes: aesthetic doctors may advise on sleep hygiene, stress management, and diet modifications.

Bottomline

Dr Ramdas concluded, “Remember that consistent skin care practices, a healthy lifestyle, and proper sleep can go a long way in preventing and minimising dark circles. While you may not achieve perfect results, with the right combination of treatments and self-care, you can significantly improve the appearance of your under-eye area and boost your confidence.”