What Causes Dark Circles Under the Eyes

Dark circles are a common concern for many, affecting both men and women. While often associated with fatigue, they can actually be caused by a variety of factors—ranging from genetics to aging and lifestyle habits. Understanding the types of dark circles is the first step in identifying the right treatment.

 

Types of Dark Circles & Their Causes

1. Pigmented Dark Circles

  • Appearance: Brown or tan discoloration
  • Cause: Caused by hyperpigmentation due to genetics, sun exposure, or post-inflammatory pigmentation from conditions like eczema or allergies.

2. Vascular Dark Circles

  • Appearance: Bluish, purple, or reddish tint
  • Cause: Result from visible blood vessels under thin skin, often due to poor circulation, aging, lack of sleep, or allergies.

3. Structural Dark Circles

  • Appearance: Deep hollows or shadows under the eyes
  • Cause: Related to facial anatomy, including deep tear troughs, loss of fat, or bone structure. It worsens with age-related collagen loss.

4. Mixed Dark Circles

  • Appearance: Combination of pigmentation, visible veins, and structural shadows
  • Cause: A result of multiple factors, such as melanin overproduction, poor circulation, and facial bone structure.

5. Post-Inflammatory Dark Circles

  • Appearance: Darkened skin after irritation
  • Cause: Occurs following skin conditions like eczema or dermatitis, leading to inflammation and leftover pigmentation.

 

Why It’s Important to Identify the Type

Each type of dark circle requires a different treatment approach:

  • Pigmented: Topicals like vitamin C, retinoids, or brightening agents
  • Vascular: Laser treatments or topical caffeine to improve circulation
  • Structural: Dermal fillers (e.g., Plinest, Juvelook) to restore volume
  • Post-inflammatory: Gentle skincare and anti-inflammatory care

 

At Luna Clinic, our doctors offer personalised consultations to help you understand the root cause and provide targeted treatments for visible, lasting improvement.

Tired of looking tired? Let Luna Clinic help you find the right solution for your dark circles. Book your consultation today and bring back your natural glow.