FOREFRONT BLOG
Category: Health & Wellness
Why Do I Have Dark Circles Under My Eyes?
Summary
Dark circles under the eyes can vary in appearance and may be caused by factors such as lack of sleep, allergies, aging, or genetics. Dermatologist Dr. Abigail Donnelly emphasizes the importance of consulting a dermatologist to identify the specific causes, as the delicate skin around the eyes can be affected by various issues. Treatments may include topical retinoids to improve skin thickness, as well as creams with hyaluronic acid, ceramides, or caffeine to address hydration and puffiness. The appropriate approach depends on individual circumstances and goals.
Do you struggle with dark circles under the eyes? Dark circles appear differently for everyone depending on skin color. Some may appear purple, dark brown or black. For some dark circles can be due to exhaustion and lack of sleep. For others it can also be a result of allergies, aging or even genetics.
According to Dr. Abigail Donnelly, board-certified dermatologist with Forefront Dermatology, “If you struggle with under eye circles, your first stop should be a visit with your dermatologist. The eye area is complex anatomically, and the delicate skin of the lower eyelid is susceptible to numerous issues that can contribute to darkness, shadows and discoloration. A careful examination can help pinpoint the unique causes of your concern.”
When exhaustion is the reason behind the dark circles it is because the lack of sleep causes fluid to build up near the blood vessels under the translucent skin, making dark circles look even darker when you’re tired. “The anatomy of eye and mid-face also plays a role,” added Dr. Donnelly. “A prominent tear trough – the area extending from the inner corner of the eye diagonally toward the cheekbone - can create a hollow, causing shadowing that makes dark circles more apparent. This trough can appear or deepen with both bone and fat loss that accompanies age.”
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Find a location near youTo treat dark circles, dermatologists may prescribe a topical retinoid that will thicken the skin and increase cell turnover making the underlying darkness appear less visible. “I also recommend creams and serums with hyaluronic acid and ceramides to hydrate and repair this easily dehydrated and irritated skin, or with caffeine to shrink swollen tissue under the eye, reducing puffiness” noted Dr. Donnelly.
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About Forefront Dermatology
At Forefront Dermatology, we believe that healthy, beautiful skin is a reflection of overall well-being. That's why we're committed to providing the highest quality skin and body care, backed by cutting-edge technology and a team of world-class experts. In other words, we're always at the forefront of skin and body healthcare.
Our goal isn't just about how you look on the outside. We aim to transform lives.
By delivering industry-leading skin and body healthcare to more people in more places, we move closer and closer to this goal for thousands of people every day.