7 Reasons Dark Circles Form Under the Eyes
Dark circles under the eyes, sometimes accompanied by bags, are a common beauty concern regardless of age, although aging is one of the causes. Another common cause is lack of sleep, but several other reasons exist.
Why do Dark Circles Worsen as we Age?
Age is a significant factor in the progression of dark circles because aging causes cheekbone reshaping and loosening of skin around the eyelids. These changes result in a hollow look, exaggerated by the shadow of facial features from above.
Stress can Cause Dark Circles
Stress can accentuate dark under-eye circles as blood is diverted away from the face and toward the vital organs. In addition, the delicate capillaries surrounding your eyes can rupture due to excessive emotional stress, causing blood to leak and darken the area.
Depression and Anxiety Can Cause Dark Circles
Mental health conditions tend to be linked to insomnia, which causes dark under-eye circles and a pasty, dull complexion overall.
Dark Circles May Indicate an Underlying Illness
While not as common, dark circles could be a symptom of a medical problem. For example, allergies, thyroid conditions like hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism, anemia and poor liver health. It can also be genetic or caused by hormonal imbalances.
Medications Can Cause Dark Circles
Drugs to dilate blood vessels, like those used to treat hypertension, can worsen dark circles under the eyes.
Nutritional Deficiencies Can Cause Dark Circles
Dark circles can be caused by a lack of certain vitamins, such as B12, E, D and K. The formation of red blood cells is tightly correlated to vitamin B12 intake. In addition, dark circles are a common symptom of iron insufficiency, which is prevalent in people with low B12 levels.
Dehydration Can Cause Dark Circles
The delicate skin around the eyes quickly dries out. Therefore, the skin around the eyes can benefit significantly from adequate hydration. You can also reduce your intake of salt, alcohol and caffeine. These substances are dehydrating and will accentuate dark circles.
Is There a Way to Distinguish Which Reason is Causing Your Dark Circles?
There are three visible types of dark circles under the eyes. These are:
- Bluish dark circles: These are caused by poor blood circulation.
- Brownish dark circles: These are caused by hyperpigmentation.
- Near-black dark circles: These are caused by shadows cast by sagging skin.
However, the only way to know the exact reason behind the dark circles under your eyes is to visit Kami Parsa, MD, at Ocuplastic Surgery. Each patient is unique, so a consultation is advised. We will evaluate your eye area and identify the best treatment.
At Ocuplastic Surgery, we offer blepharoplasty surgery and non-invasive therapies like dermal fillers and topical creams. Schedule a visit today. We look forward to refreshing your eyes by finally ridding you of those dark circles.
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465 N Roxbury Dr. Suite 1011
Beverly Hills, CA 90210
Phone: (310) 777 - 8880
Email: info@oculoplastic.info
