Dark circles under the eyes are caused by a variety of factors, often related to genetics, lifestyle, aging, and health conditions. Key causes include:
- Genetics and Aging: Heredity plays a major role, as some people inherit thinner or more pigmented skin under the eyes, making blood vessels more visible and causing a darker appearance. Aging also contributes by thinning the skin and causing fat loss around the eyes, which deepens shadows
- Fatigue and Sleep Deprivation: Lack of sleep can make skin appear paler and duller, increasing the visibility of blood vessels beneath the eyes. It can also lead to fluid retention, causing puffiness that casts shadows, enhancing the look of dark circles
- Allergies and Sinus Issues: Allergic reactions release histamines that cause itching, swelling, and inflammation, which can break blood vessels and cause pigmentation changes. Sinus congestion can increase pressure around the eyes, causing blood pooling and darkening of the skin
- Lifestyle Factors: Smoking, alcohol consumption, high salt intake, and chronic stress can damage skin elasticity, cause dehydration, fluid retention, and affect blood circulation, all contributing to under-eye dark circles and puffiness
- Health Conditions: Certain medical issues like anemia, thyroid problems, malnutrition, and diseases affecting the liver or kidneys can also cause dark circles
- Other Causes: Rubbing or scratching the eyes, use of some medications (e.g., glaucoma eye drops), and structural facial features that create shadows can also play a role
In summary, dark circles result from a combination of pigmentation (melanin), visible blood vessels, thin skin, and shadows caused by facial anatomy or puffiness. Treatments vary depending on the cause and may include lifestyle changes, topical treatments, or medical procedures
