Why Do You Suffer From Dark Circles Under Your Eyes? (And It's Not Always Due to Tiredness)

Dark circles under the eyes are a common phenomenon that affects many of us. Most of us tend to attribute the problem to tiredness or lack of sleep, but the truth is that there are many causes that can lead to the appearance of these dark patches. In this article, we'll review the main reasons and suggest possible solutions.

What exactly are dark circles under the eyes?
Dark circles appear when the skin under the eyes is darker than the surrounding skin. They can vary in color—from bluish or purplish to brown or black—depending on the specific cause. The area under the eyes is covered by particularly thin skin (approximately 0.5 mm compared to 2 mm for the rest of the face), making it more sensitive and vulnerable to changes.

According to a study published in the Journal of Clinical and Aesthetic Dermatology, around 65% of the population experiences dark circles under their eyes at some point in their lives, and they can appear at any age, from childhood to old age.

Main Causes of Dark Circles Under the Eyes

1. Genetics and Heredity
One of the most significant factors is simply genetics. If your parents or grandparents suffered from dark circles under their eyes, you're likely to experience them too.
A study showed that, in many cases, it is a hereditary trait that manifests itself in various ways:

• Hyperpigmentation—excessive melanin production in the area
• Vein patterns—blood vessels more visible under thin skin
• Facial bone structure—natural depressions that create shadows
  In these cases, dark circles under the eyes are not a sign of illness, but a genetic trait, like eye color or nose shape.

2. Allergies and Respiratory Problems
Seasonal allergies, chronic allergic rhinitis, and asthma are all contributing factors to dark circles under the eyes. When we experience an allergic reaction, the body releases histamines, which cause blood vessels to dilate and inflammation to develop. Furthermore, allergies often cause itchy eyes, which can exacerbate the problem.

A study from Seoul National University showed that in 65% of cases of chronic dark circles, patients also had chronic allergies. Additionally, respiratory problems such as sinusitis or snoring can increase the strain on the respiratory system and contribute to the appearance of dark circles.

3. Nutritional Deficiencies
Our diet directly influences the health of our skin. Certain nutritional deficiencies can cause dark circles under the eyes, including:

• Iron deficiency (anemia)—decreases hemoglobin and reduces the supply of oxygen to the tissues, making the skin paler and the blood vessels more visible.
• Vitamin K deficiency—important for blood clotting and the appearance of blood vessels
• Vitamin B12 deficiency—affects overall skin health
• Vitamin C deficiency—essential for collagen production and skin health
  One study found that improving levels of these vitamins and minerals led to a significant improvement in the appearance of dark circles in 18% of participants within six weeks.

4. Dehydration and Dry Skin
One surprising factor is dehydration. When the body is dehydrated, the skin (especially the thin skin under the eyes) loses volume and elasticity, becoming thinner and darker. Furthermore, dry skin accentuates wrinkles and imperfections, making dark circles more noticeable.

It's important to distinguish between general body dehydration and localized skin dryness. Both affect the appearance of dark circles, but they require different treatments: drinking enough water helps with general dehydration, while creams and moisturizers help with localized dryness.

5. Lifestyle Factors
In addition to physiological factors, lifestyle also plays a role:

• Smoking reduces blood flow and accelerates skin aging.
• Excessive alcohol consumption—causes dehydration and disrupts sleep quality
• Prolonged sun exposure—damages the skin and increases melanin production
• Excessive screen time—causes eye strain and worsens dark circles
  A survey of 1,200 people aged 25 to 45 showed that those who used screens for more than 8 hours a day were 40% more likely to develop dark circles under their eyes compared to those who used screens for less than 4 hours.

6. Tiredness and Lack of Sleep
Yes, tiredness also contributes to dark circles under the eyes, but not always in the way we might imagine. When we're tired, our skin often looks paler, making the blood vessels under the eyes more visible. In addition, fatigue can cause puffiness around the eyes due to fluid retention, creating dark shadows.

Studies show that sleeping less than 7 hours a night increases the risk of dark circles under the eyes by 30%. Sleep quality is also important—shallow or interrupted sleep affects skin renewal and blood flow.

7. Age and Natural Aging
With age, skin loses collagen and fat, becoming thinner and more translucent. As a result, blood vessels under the eyes become more visible, increasing dark circles. In addition, the natural sagging of facial tissues creates shadows that accentuate the dark appearance.

According to the Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, collagen loss begins around age 25, and approximately 1% is lost annually. In the sensitive area under the eyes, this means an earlier appearance of dark circles.

Solutions and Treatments

While it's not always possible to prevent dark circles under the eyes, there are several solutions that can help:

Natural Solutions:

• Drink enough water—at least 8 glasses a day
• Get enough sleep—7 to 8 hours per night
• A balanced diet rich in iron, vitamins C, K, and B12.
• Cold compresses help reduce swelling and constrict blood vessels
• Green tea infusions—you can put cold bags over your eyes
• Products containing caffeine help to constrict blood vessels.

Cosmetic Treatments:

• Specific creams with retinol, vitamin C or peptides
• Special eye masks
• Serums with hyaluronic acid to improve hydration
• Concealer suitable for temporary concealment

Medical Treatments:

• Laser—to treat hyperpigmentation
• Chemical peel—to remove the top layer of skin
• Fillers—to add volume to sunken areas
• Botox—in certain cases

If dark circles appear along with other symptoms such as extreme swelling, pain, sudden changes in the appearance of the eyes, or vision problems, it's important to see a doctor. These can be signs of health problems that require attention.

When is it advisable to consult a doctor?
If you notice sudden or severe changes in the appearance of your eyes, or if dark circles appear along with other symptoms such as significant swelling, pain, or vision problems, it's advisable to consult a doctor. Likewise, if you've tried home remedies for several weeks without improvement, professional intervention may be necessary.

A dermatologist can diagnose the exact cause of your dark circles and recommend the most suitable treatment for you, whether it's a change in lifestyle, nutritional supplements, prescription creams, or more advanced treatments.

Summary
Dark circles under the eyes are a complex phenomenon that can stem from multiple causes, ranging from genetics and nutrition to lifestyle. While they can't always be completely prevented, understanding your personal factors will help you choose the most appropriate treatment. Whether through small changes in your habits, using suitable products, or seeking professional help, there are many ways to reduce the appearance of dark circles and improve the skin around your eyes.

Remember that everyone is different, and what works for one person may not be effective for another. Be patient, as most treatments take time to show results. And if you're dealing with particularly persistent dark circles, don't hesitate to consult a dermatologist who can offer personalized solutions.