Dark Under-Eye Circles

If you always feel like you look tired, it could be due to dark under-eye circles. This is a problem that plagues over half of women, leading to puffiness around the eyes and dark bruise-like circles that can make you look sleep-deprived, even if you are not.

There are a number of factors that contribute to dark, puffy eyes. While a loss of sleep can exacerbate the problem, it is mainly related to genetics. African-Americans, Southeast Asians, and southern Italians tend to report more troubles with under-eye circles. This is due to hereditary hyperpigmentation in the skin under the eyes, leading to a darkening.

Additionally, things like fatigue and alcohol over-consumption can cause puffy eyes because they cause dehydration, which thins and dulls the skin. Tanning can also worsen the areas of extra pigmentation. Dilated blood vessels under the eyes, which can be due to allergies and certain medication, can also darken the area under your eyes. Aging is another cause of thin skin in this area.

Because there is not much to treat hereditary dark under-eye circles, doctors recommend remaining hydrated to keep your skin plump. Also, you can get creams that contain plumping agents to try to rejuvenate the skin under your eyes. You can also try a skin-brightening makeup to help reflect light, diminishing the appearance of the darkness.

To help reduce your eye puffiness, you can use cold compresses to eliminate the swelling. Many people rely on cold cucumber slices, cold brewed tea bags, and even potato slices to take away the puff. Cucumbers are very high in water content, which help hydrate your under-eye area. Tea bags contain many antioxidants, which can help soothe your eyes.

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Some plastic surgeons are injecting facial fillers in dark under-eye circles to help decrease the appearance of “tired” eyes. However, the FDA has not yet approved this practice. If you would like more advice from a dermatologist or other medical technician for decreasing your puffy eyes, check out the Business Directory today to find a doctor in your area.