Dark Circles Under the Eyes

Dark circles under the eyes describe a common appearance of the lower eyelids that has various causes.

Causes:

• Increased pigmentation (melanin)
• Loss of fatty tissue in the eyelid or around the eye
• Bulging fat and muscle loss
• Puffy eyelids
• Thin, translucent skin
• Shadowing due to anatomic shape of the orbit.

Risk factors:

Elderly, Genetic predisposition, Sun exposure, Dermatitis, Rubbing or scratching the eyes, Smoking, Fatigue or lack of sleep, dehydration (sunken eyes).

Diagnosis: Clinical

Treatment:

• Adequate sleep
• Smoking cessation
• Cold compresses
• Protection from sun exposure using sunglasses
• Topical agents
• Chemical peels
• Laser
• Fillers (dermal implants):