why do i have dark circles under my eyes

Dark circles under the eyes can be caused by multiple factors including genetics, lack of sleep, fatigue, allergies, dehydration, aging, eye strain, sun overexposure, anemia, and lifestyle factors such as stress, poor nutrition, smoking, and alcohol use. They may appear due to thin skin revealing blood vessels underneath, or due to pigmentation or shadowing caused by bone structure or loss of fat around the eyes. Genetic predisposition is also a significant cause, making some people more prone to dark circles from an early age. Additionally, health issues like anemia or allergies can contribute to their appearance. Dehydration and eye strain from screen use can also make dark circles more visible. These dark circles are generally a cosmetic concern but may be addressed by improving sleep, hydration, diet, managing allergies, and protecting skin from sun damage among other treatments.