Why Do I Have Dark Circles Under My Eyes?
Dark circles under the eyes occur when the skin below them looks darker than the surrounding area. Genetics, aging, allergies, lack of sleep, and lifestyle habits can all make the skin under your eyes look darker. Sometimes, dark circles relate to health issues, but most often they result from skin structure or pigmentation.
People often notice dark circles more after feeling tired, stressed, or dehydrated. The skin under the eyes is thin, so changes in blood vessels or skin pigment show more easily. Shadows from puffiness or hollow areas can also make the circles look darker, even if the skin itself hasn’t changed.
Definition of Symptom
Dark circles under the eyes refer to the darker skin tone that appears in the area just below the lower eyelids. This color change can range from light brown to bluish or purplish shades, depending on skin tone and causes.
They usually do not signal a serious health problem, but they can affect appearance. Some people notice them only occasionally, while others see them as a constant feature. Common characteristics include:
- Color change: Brown, blue, purple, or black hues.
- Location: Directly under the lower eyelids.
- Texture: Skin may feel normal or slightly thinner than surrounding areas.
Sometimes, what looks like dark circles comes from shadows caused by puffiness or hollows under the eyes, not actual pigment changes. The visibility of dark circles depends on skin thickness, blood vessel prominence, and natural pigmentation.
Thin skin may reveal more of the underlying blood vessels, giving a bluish or purplish look. Dark circles under eyes can result from multiple factors, including genetics, aging, fatigue, and allergies. Key points to note:
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Appearance | Darker skin under lower eyelids |
| Possible Colors | Brown, blue, purple, black |
| May Involve | Pigment changes, visible vessels, shadows |
Possible Causes/Diseases Condition
Many reasons can cause dark circles. Some are temporary and linked to lifestyle, while others relate to genetics or health conditions.
| Condition | How it may cause dark circles |
|---|---|
| Anemia | Fewer red blood cells can cause paleness and more visible veins. |
| Chronic Sinus Issues | Swelling and congestion can darken under-eye skin. |
| Dermatitis | Irritation can lead to discoloration. |
| Thyroid Disorders | Can cause puffiness and skin changes. |
In rare cases, certain illnesses such as neuroblastoma in children may cause under-eye discoloration, but this is uncommon.
Other Non-Disease Causes
Dark circles can appear even without illness. Everyday habits and physical traits can make the skin under the eyes look darker.
- Lack of sleep is a common factor. When someone is tired, the skin may appear paler, which can make blood vessels under the eyes more visible.
- Genetics also play a role. People may inherit thinner skin under the eyes or a natural tendency for more pigment in this area.
- Lifestyle factors can make dark circles worse:
- Alcohol consumption can cause dehydration, which may make the skin look dull and shadows more noticeable.
- Smoking can damage skin and blood vessels, making discolorations more visible.
- High-salt diets can lead to fluid retention, causing puffiness and shadows.
- Aging changes the skin’s structure. Over time, fat and collagen under the eyes decrease, making hollows and blood vessels more obvious.
- Eye strain from screens can cause blood vessels around the eyes to enlarge, creating a darker appearance.
- Sun exposure can increase melanin, leading to more pigment under the eyes. This is especially noticeable in people with naturally darker skin tones.
In some cases, facial structure itself can create shadows. Deep-set eyes or hollows under the eyes can make the area look darker, even without skin discoloration. These causes often overlap, and several factors may be present at the same time.
How It Causes the Symptom
Dark circles form when changes occur in the skin, blood vessels, or tissue under the eyes. The skin in this area is thin, so any change beneath it can become visible. One common cause is when extra pigment makes the skin look darker. This can happen because of genetics, sun exposure, or certain skin conditions.
Another factor is the natural hollow between the lower eyelid and cheek. As people age or lose facial fat, this hollow becomes deeper, creating a shadow that looks like a dark circle. Poor sleep or fatigue can cause blood vessels under the eyes to widen. This makes the area appear bluish or purple through the thin skin.
Possible Complications
Dark circles under the eyes are usually harmless, but sometimes they can be linked to health issues. If the cause is not addressed, the appearance can become more noticeable over time.
Some people may develop worsening skin pigmentation in the under-eye area, making treatment more difficult and recovery longer if using medical or cosmetic procedures. If allergies or sinus problems cause dark circles, untreated symptoms may lead to chronic nasal congestion, increasing swelling and discoloration under the eyes.
In rare cases, persistent dark circles may signal conditions such as anemia, thyroid disorders, or kidney problems. These require medical evaluation to confirm and manage the underlying cause. Possible related issues include:
- Increased puffiness or swelling.
- Eye strain from rubbing the eyes.
- Skin irritation from overuse of topical products.
- Emotional effects, such as reduced self-confidence.
When to Seek Medical Attention
Dark circles are often harmless, but certain situations may require a doctor’s evaluation. If the discoloration appears suddenly or only under one eye, it can signal an underlying issue that needs attention. People should also seek care if the skin under the eyes becomes painful, swollen, or red, as these may be signs of infection or inflammation. See a healthcare provider if:
- Dark circles worsen over time without a clear reason.
- They appear alongside vision changes or persistent eye discomfort.
- There is unexplained bruising around the eyes.
- Home remedies and lifestyle changes fail to improve them.
Changes in skin color under the eyes can sometimes relate to blood vessel problems or skin disorders. While rare, these may need special care. If dark circles come with fatigue, dizziness, or shortness of breath, get checked promptly. These symptoms may point to a broader health concern rather than a cosmetic issue.
