Dark circles under the eyes are often associated with a lack of sleep. In reality, there are many factors that can cause them. In most cases, dark eye circles are caused by blood pooling in the vessels that lie close to the skin’s surface. The majority of the accumulated blood is deoxygenated (lacks oxygen) so it presents a bluish or purplish tint.
The following factors have been shown to contribute to the appearance of dark under eye circles:
- Ethnic background — Certain ethnicities, such as those of Mediterranean descent, are more prone to developing dark under eye circles than the others. This is largely to due to their skin’s ability to produce more pigment that can accumulate under the eyes.
- Genetics — The skin around the eye area is thinner than the rest of the body. However, some individuals have inherently translucent skin, making them more susceptible to dark under eye circles.
- Age — As you age, your body produces less collagen. Collagen is crucial to maintaining optimum skin health. Dwindling levels of collagen lead to sagging skin and darkening around the eye area. In addition, facial volume loss associated with aging (usually due to fat loss) can lead to hollowed tear troughs and an illusion of dark circles.
- Certain illnesses such as anemia or liver problems — These conditions make it difficult for oxygen to reach body tissues.
- Allergies — The sudden increase in histamines during an allergic reaction can lead to inflammation of the blood vessels, even in the under eye areas.
- Unprotected sun exposure — The skin underneath the eyes can become darkened from prolonged, unprotected sun exposure.
If preventative measures such as sufficient hydration, iron supplements, and regular use of sunscreen are not helping you reduce the appearance of dark under eye circles, get in touch with us and we’ll help you explore other options — from facial fillers to boost facial volume, to lower eyelid surgery to reduce under eye puffiness. Call 352.237.8400 to schedule an appointment today!