Dark circles under the eyes refer to the darkened skin beneath the lower eyelids, also known as Periorbital hyperpigmentation (POH), which can appear in shades of blue, purple, brown, or black, depending on your skin tone. They often give a tired or aged appearance. It is a common skincare concern for people of all ages. Dark circles are not usually a serious health problem, but are often linked to an unhealthy lifestyle or poor self-care habits.

Let's dive into it to find causes, treatments, and how to remove dark circles permanently.

Causes of Dark Circles

Dark circles are more common among certain people who have a family history, with darker skin tones, and among elderly people. The major causes of dark circles are given below:

Ageing:

As you get older, the skin under your eye becomes loose and thin, so the blood vessels are more visible there; this darkens the appearance of the area and tear troughs.

Genetics:

Studies showed that dark circles may run from one generation to another. The genetic makeup of that family may determine how easily they develop dark circles and also their severity.

Lack of Sleep:

It may cause your skin to become paler. Blood vessels and dark tissues under the eye become more visible, which also leads to fluid buildup that causes puffiness.

Allergic Reaction:

If you have an allergic reaction to your eyes, it causes itchy, red, and puffy eyes. Scratching the skin of the eye may cause broken blood vessels, inflammation,  and swelling, leading to post-inflammatory pigmentation.

Eyestrain:

Staring at a phone, TV, and computer screen for a longer period may dilate your blood vessels under the eye and cause dark circles.

Dehydration:

If you do not intake an adequate quantity of water, your skin gets close to the underlying bone.

Anemia:

The low level of red blood cells may cause dizziness, weakness, shortness of breath,  light-headedness, and tiredness. The skin looks pale, and you might have dark circles under your eyes.

Lifestyle Factors:

Many lifestyle factors, such as smoking and drinking alcohol,  may also be linked with the development of dark circles.

Sun Overexposure:

Prolonged exposure to sunlight causes dark circles because of the excess production of melanin (a pigment that darkens the skin).

Ocular Hypotensive Drugs:

Some drugs, e.g., for the treatment of glaucoma, may cause dark circles.

Home Remedies to Get Rid of Dark Circles Permanently

The top 8  natural home remedies that may help get rid of dark circles under the eyes are given  below:

1. Adequate Sleep:

Getting sufficient, high-quality sleep can help reduce the appearance of dark circles. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), adults should aim for at least 7 hours of sleep each night.

How to get: To reduce puffiness caused by fluid buildup in your lower eyelids, try sleeping with an extra pillow to elevate your head.

2. Cold Compress:

Doing cold presses over your eyes can help constrict enlarged blood vessels, reducing puffiness and diminishing the appearance of dark circles. 

How to use: Wrap ice cubes in a clean cloth and apply under your eyes for 7-10 minutes.

3. Teabags: 

Placing the teabag under the eye can increase circulation because tea contains antioxidants and caffeine, and also relieves inflammation and soothes the area. 

How to use: Soak tea bags in water, refrigerate for 25 minutes, then place over eyes for 10 minutes. 

4. Cucumbers: 

Using cucumber slices on the eyes helps to reduce puffiness because cucumbers are full of water and vitamin C, which provide instant hydration and reduce darkness. 

How to use: Chill the cucumber slices in the refrigerator and then place them over the eye for 10-12 minutes. 

5. Limit Sun Exposure: 

It helps to reduce melanin production and also prevents the darkening of the eye.

How to Use: Try limiting sun exposure to your face and wearing sunscreens.

6. Potato Juice:

Potatoes contain natural bleaching agents that lighten dark circles. 

How to Use: Grate a raw potato and extract the juice. Apply it under your eyes with a cotton ball. Leave it for 10-15 minutes and rinse. 

7. Aloe Vera Gel 

Aloe vera has a calming effect and provides deep hydration and nourishment to the sensitive skin under the eyes. 

How to use: Gently apply fresh aloe vera gel beneath your eyes at night and rinse it off in the morning. 

8. Almond Oil and Vitamin E 

These natural oils gradually hydrate the skin and help brighten its tone over time. 

How to Use: Mix equal amounts of almond oil and vitamin E and gently massage the mixture into the dark circles just before bedtime. In the morning, wash the area with cold water. 

Medical Treatments to Remove Dark Circles Permanently

There is a medical treatment that helps to get rid of dark circles under your eyes, explained  below: 

1. Laser Therapy

Laser is applied to the darker area under the eye; the heat from the laser vaporizes the damaged cells and enhances collagen production, providing a lighter skin tone. 

2. Chemical Peels

In this procedure, a light chemical peel is done to lighten the darker area by using glycolic acid,  salicylic acid, lactic acid, resorcinol, and hydroquinone in different combinations. 

3. Fillers

Hyaluronic acid-based fillers are used. It is injected into the tissue under the eye. Fillers may help with volume loss under the eye, which can cause dark circles.

4. Blepharoplasty

Fat can be surgically removed from the lower lid. This procedure can decrease the shadow cast by your eyelid, which can decrease the appearance of dark circles. 

5. Topical Creams

To lighten under-eye hyperpigmentation, OTC creams are used, including azelaic acid, Kojic acid,  glycolic acid, hydroquinone, and tretinoin (Retin-A). 

6. Carboxytherapy

This therapy is done to increase blood flow to the area under the eyes, reduce the appearance of darkness, and also provide hydration. 

Note: Before deciding on any procedure, consult with a doctor so you can choose the best procedure according to your condition. 

Final Words

For many people, dark circles appear occasionally and are usually harmless. However, if the discoloration or puffiness worsens or starts to concern you, it’s best to consult a dermatologist. They can help you identify the underlying cause and recommend the appropriate treatment. 

To consult with the best dermatologist in Pakistan by visiting Apka Muaalij. For a quick consultation, dial 042 3238 0001 and book your doctors through Apka Muaalij, the best telehealth platform in Pakistan. 

Most Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) 

Can I get rid of dark circles permanently? 

Yes, with consistent care or professional treatments, depending on the cause.

How long do home remedies take to show results? 

Typically, 4–6 weeks of regular use is needed to see visible improvement.

Are dark circles a sign of a health problem?

Sometimes, especially if related to allergies, anemia, or poor circulation.

Do eye creams work for dark circles?

Yes, if they contain active ingredients like vitamin C, retinol, or caffeine.

What should I avoid to prevent dark circles?

Avoid poor sleep, eye rubbing, sun exposure, smoking, and dehydration.