What are dark circles under the eyes and why do they appear
Types of dark circles under the eyes
How to significantly reduce dark circles under the eyes
5 tips to eliminate dark circles under the eyes quickly
What are eye bags
How to reduce eye bags
What are dark circles under the eyes and why do they appear?
Dark circles under the eyes are common for many people, regardless of their age or gender. So, what are these dark circles, and why are they there? It is because the skin around the eyes is thinner and more delicate, so it is more susceptible to pigmentation.
This area has very low collagen levels and is more easily affected by eyelid movement.
As we age, we experience visible signs of ageing in the skin, such as more noticeable dark circles. This can be impacted by the decline of collagen, as well as genetics, lack of sleep, stress, allergies and dehydration.
Dark circles under the eyes should not be confused with bags under the eyes. Dark circles under the eyes are not caused by the accumulation of liquids but rather by increased pigmentation in the area. Although they are different problems, it is normal for one to be accompanied by the other.
Why do dark circles under the eyes appear?
The main reasons why dark circles under the eyes may appear are:
- Lack of sleep and exhaustion
With this the problem is not only the lack of sleep but also sleeping outside the biologically optimal time. For example, if you sleep very late or work irregular hours. During the night, the body activates the repair and regeneration mechanisms of the different layers of the skin. This mechanism can work less efficiently if you do not sleep during the corresponding hours. Therefore, it’s necessary to get enough sleep (8 hours) and before midnight if possible. - Natural skin ageing process
As the years go by, the skin around the eye becomes thinner and more vulnerable to environmental elements, impacted by the decline of collagen and fatty tissue. For this reason, some older people may have dark circles under their eyes despite maintaining good eating and sleeping habits.
In these cases, to keep the eye area looking young and healthy, you can opt to use targeted eye creams, along with treatments such as carboxytherapy and depigmenting peels.
Other reasons for dark circles under the eyes include:
- Dehydration
- Stress
- Allergic reactions to environmental elements, medication, or cosmetics
- Iron deficiency, for example from anemia
- Excessive exposure to sunlight
- Tobacco use
- Dermatitis
- Thyroid problems
- Hereditary genetic factors
- Rubbing the eyes
Types of dark circles under the eyes
Dark circles under the eyes are a common problem that can affect anyone, but did you know there are four main types?
Knowing your specific type of dark circles and the underlying cause can help you find the right solution to reduce their appearance. With the proper treatment, it is possible to permanently get rid of dark circles and achieve a more youthful, refreshed appearance.
Sunken circles under the eyes
Sunken circles, also known as hollow circles, are caused by a decline of fat and collagen in the under-eye area, possibly due to ageing or weight loss.
Fortunately, there are several treatments available to reduce their appearance. To reduce the appearance of dark circles under the eyes, it is important to maintain a healthy lifestyle. This includes sleeping; staying hydrated; avoiding tobacco and alcohol; and using adequate sun protection. Facial exercises can also help to improve circulation and tone the under-eye area. In addition, there are non-surgical treatments that can decrease the appearance of sunken circles, such as eye creams and serums containing vitamin C.
Pigmented dark circles under the eyes
Pigmented dark circles under the eyes are due to an overproduction of melanin, mainly caused by genetics, hormonal changes, UV radiation, and age.
Using specific serums and creams to combat dark circles under the eyes can help achieve the desired results. Although they may take several weeks or months to reduce, consistent use of these products can help to reduce their visibility.
In addition to topical skincare treatments, some lifestyle changes can also help minimise dark circles under the eyes. Wearing sunscreen to prevent further pigmentation, getting enough sleep, drinking plenty of fluids, and eating a balanced diet are great ways to improve the overall appearance of the eye area.
Vascular dark circles
Vascular dark circles under the eyes are characterised by their bluish or purplish hue, and appear as a result of dilated blood vessels which are visible through the thin skin. Vascular discoloration under the eyes is a very common phenomenon that appears more frequently in people with lighter skin tones. Fortunately, there are several effective methods to reduce the appearance of these dark circles.
Caffeine-enriched products are one of the most effective treatments around the eyes, rejuvenating the skin and diminishing the visibility of vascular dark circles under the eyes.
In addition, a cold compress, such as a cold spoon or eye mask, can be used to awaken the skin, thereby reducing the appearance of darkening of this area.
If discolorations persist, more advanced treatments are available. Laser therapy stimulates collagen production and improves blood flow, while injectable fillers can plump up the skin. However, these procedures should only be performed by a qualified professional.
If you are considering an aesthetic treatment, always consult a Medical Professional. SkinCeuticals products are cosmetic skincare products for topical use. Do not inject. Only apply on healed skin.Superficial or transient dark circles under the eyes
Finally, superficial dark circles are the most common type and are formed by swelling or inflammation of the eyes. These dark circles are caused by the loss of collagen and fat under the skin, resulting in a thinner, translucent layer. The colour of these dark circles is usually a bluish or purplish hue.
Several factors can contribute to the appearance of superficial dark circles under the eyes, such as ageing, sun exposure, smoking, and lack of sleep or exhaustion.
A simple solution to conceal superficial dark circles under the eyes is the use of makeup. Depending on the coloration of the individual under-eye circles, primarily yellow or peach-toned concealers can counteract the purplish or bluish tones of dark circles under the eyes. However, these techniques are temporary and do not provide a permanent solution.
How to significantly reduce dark circles under the eyes
The key to success in reducing the appearance of dark circles under the eyes is recognising the causes, which can be hereditary or lifestyle factors. Once the source is identified, you can begin the process of restoring a more youthful and vibrant appearance to the area.
Complementing the changes in your habits with specific products to minimise the appearance of dark circles under the eyes can make all the difference. That's why we recommend that besides drinking more water and avoiding habits that are harmful to your health, such as smoking or poor diet, you should use specific creams and serums for the eye contour to improve the appearance of dark circles under the eyes. You will soon notice the difference!
Look for products with ingredients such as vitamin C, caffeine, and retinol, which can help brighten skin. Below, we recommend a number of products that can make a significant difference in the treatment of dark circles under the eyes.
SkinCeuticals products for dark circles
AOX+ Eye Gel 15ml
Helps prevent free radical damage and reduces the appearance of visible signs of ageing around the eye.
AOX+ EYE GEL FOR DARK CIRCLES
To significantly reduce the appearance of dark circles under the eyes, you can opt for AOX+ Eye Gel. This effective eye contour serum combines antioxidants vitamin C, phloretin, and ferulic acid, along with circulation-boosting ingredients such as ruscus and caffeine. This helps to reduce the appearance of dark circles and the appearance of fine lines. Continued use of this serum can brighten the eye area for a radiant look.
The benefits of AOX+ EYE GEL Eye Contour Serum go beyond the reduction of dark circles; it also helps to reduce the appearance of wrinkles. This is due to the high concentration of antioxidants, which acts by neutralising free radicals and protecting the skin from external aggressors.
A.G.E. Advanced Eye For Dark Circles
Eye cream suitable for Dry & Normal Skin
A.G.E. ADVANCED EYE FOR DARK CIRCLES
A.G.E. Advanced Eye is a silky cream formulated for the delicate eye area, which offers a powerful solution for anyone experiencing dark circles under the eyes. Formulated with 0.5% Caffeine and Inclusive Optical Effects, these ingredients disperse light and minimise the appearance of dark circles across all skin tones. This cream also helps target the appearance of crow’s feet lines and mild to moderate wrinkles impacted by collagen decline and glycation, while restoring moisture to dry, ageing skin. 92% of women agree skin looks firmer & brighter**.
** Self-Assessment, 89 subjects5 tips to eliminate dark circles under the eyes quickly
For a quick fix to get rid of dark circles under your eyes, here are some tricks you can try:
- Apply a cold compress: You can apply a cold compress, cold spoons, or frozen, previously boiled tea bags to the area. This will help constrict the blood vessels and reduce swelling. You can also use cucumber slices or potato slices, which contain natural calming properties, to soothe the skin around the eyes.
- Conceal with makeup: Choose a concealer that matches your skin tone and has a yellow or peach undertone, which can cancel out the blue or purple tones of dark circles. Apply the product in a triangle shape under the eyes, blending outward with a damp sponge or makeup brush.
- Consider a draining massage: You can opt for a professional lymphatic massage, which uses gentle techniques to stimulate the flow of lymph fluid throughout the area. This can be particularly helpful in reducing swelling caused by the accumulation of toxins. You can also perform a self-massage at home. To do so, start by gently tapping with your index finger under your eyes, from the temple to the tear duct. Then, placing the index or healing finger under the eye, from the temple, and towards the tear duct, make a gentle wave movement; it is important to just do it in this direction.
- Drink plenty of water and control salt intake: A diet high in salt can contribute to the body retaining fluids that accumulate in the softer tissues. Therefore, staying hydrated by consuming 2 to 3 litres of water a day and reducing salt intake can help get rid of bags under the eyes.
- Treat your allergies: Allergies, such as pollen, dust, or some medication, can cause inflammation of the blood vessels found in the eye area, resulting in a darkened look. Also, congestion can result in the accumulation of fluid in the eye area, which causes swelling. In these cases, it is necessary to visit an allergist or otolaryngologist to provide the appropriate treatment.
What are eye bags
Not to be confused with dark circles under the eyes, bags under the eyes are caused by the accumulation of liquids. Although dark circles and eye bags are different concerns, it is normal for one to be accompanied by the other.
How to reduce eye bags
It is possible to minimise eye bags and restore the desired vitality to the eye contours. Discover some techniques below:
- Sleeping between 7 and 9 hours each night.
- Eating a balanced diet rich in nutrients, such as potassium from bananas or spinach, and antioxidants, such as vitamin C from citrus fruits.
- Applying skin brightening ingredients topically, such as kojic acid, vitamin C and azelaic acid
- Injecting hyaluronic acid gel or platelet-rich plasma as a filler under the eye contours to regenerate the fatty eye tissue. This should be carried out by a professional.
SkinCeuticals products for eye bags
Eye Balm
Eye cream for puffy eyes, under eye bags, and crow’s feet
EYE BALM FOR EYE BAGS
A powerful solution to eliminate eye bags in particular, while comforting the eye contour, is the Eye Balm. This cream is enriched with red coral to improve the overall appearance of the area, and an effective blend of unique ingredients that act on moisture loss, skin sagging, and the damaging action of free radicals. This reduces the appearance of signs of ageing in the eye area, such as wrinkles, puffiness, laxity, and bags under the eyes.
This serum is ideal for people with dry skin and sensitive skin, as it calms the skin and restores essential lipids to restore the skin's cutaneous barrier and help nourish dry, delicate skin.
Follow the tips we have provided and combine them with quality products suited to the needs of the delicate skin around your eyes, and watch as your dark circles and eye bags begin to disappear.
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