Dark circles are a common concern and often stubborn to treat. While they’re usually blamed on poor sleep, the reality is more complex — and understanding the cause matters far more than piling on eye creams.
Under-eye darkening typically comes from one (or more) of the following:
Because these factors overlap, successful treatment usually addresses both skin quality and structure.
Dark circles generally fall into three categories:
Pigmented — brown or tan discolouration linked to melanin
Vascular — blue or purple tones from visible blood vessels
Structural — shadows caused by volume loss or deep tear troughs
Each responds differently, which is why identifying the dominant cause is key before choosing treatment.
Topical skincare can help support the under-eye area, but noticeable improvement often requires professional treatments — especially where volume loss or skin thinning is involved.
Depending on the cause, options may include:
As Dr Phil Frost, Founder and Medical Director of Face Value Cosmetic Medicine, notes:
“Most patients have more than one contributing factor behind their dark circles. Treating the skin alone isn’t always enough — lasting improvement usually comes from addressing volume, skin quality, and pigmentation together.”
Some people are simply more prone to dark circles due to inherited traits like thinner skin or deeper-set eyes. Skin tone also plays a role: pigmentation tends to be more common in darker skin tones, while vascular dark circles show more clearly in fair skin.
Recognising these factors helps set realistic expectations and guides appropriate treatment choices.
UV exposure worsens pigmentation and speeds up collagen breakdown, both of which make dark circles more visible over time.
Daily sunscreen use, protective eyewear, and antioxidant skincare can significantly improve long-term outcomes and help preserve treatment results.
To maintain improvements:
Dark circles aren’t just a surface issue — they reflect changes in skin, structure, and genetics. The most effective solutions start with identifying the cause and taking a layered approach rather than relying on a single fix.
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