You may associate dark circles under the eyes with someone who is tired and not getting enough sleep. Perhaps stress is interfering with her slumber. Dark circles can have many causes unrelated to how much sleep you get at night. Whatever the cause, dark circles are a common cosmetic complaint. Fortunately, there are things you can do to prevent or at least conceal their appearance.
Causes
There are several causes for dark circles. As you age, your skin becomes thinner, which can make the blood vessels surrounding your eyes more prominent. You may also have a greater tendency to develop dark circles if it runs in your family. However, dark circles under the eyes are not limited to older individuals. A 1977 report in the journal Family Physician found that allergies can cause dark circles. An older individual with allergies should avoid rubbing her eyes because of the increased risk of skin injury due to aging.
Prevention
You can prevent puffy eyes, which can create a shadow effect, making it appear as if you have dark circles. First, get a good night's sleep. Sleep with your head elevated so that excess fluids drain away from your head and eyes. And take care of your skin during the day.
Always use sunscreen and wear sunglasses to avoid damage from harmful ultraviolet rays. You can also trying using a topical application containing phytonadione, retinol and vitamins C and E. A 2004 study in the Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology found that such a preparation can be effective for reducing the appearance of dark circles as well as reducing wrinkles.
Concealers
A few cosmetic tricks can reduce the appearance of dark circles. A peach-colored concealer can temporarily mask their appearance, giving your skin a more youthful, healthy look. Avoid using a white concealer, which will only draw attention to your dark circles. If you are looking for a more permanent solution, you can investigate laser therapy or chemical peels as possible options.
Medical Causes
Sometimes dark circles under the eyes have a medical cause. If you are taking medications that cause your blood vessels to dilate, it may also be affecting the blood vessels under your eyes, making your skin appear bluish. Pregnancy or menstruation can have a similar effect.
Age Perception
Dark circles under the eyes is one factor that makes people look older than they are. A study published in the Journal of the European Academy of Dermatology and Venereology in August 2008 found that in photos of Causcasian women, dark circles under the eyes were perceived to add years to her actual age.
References
- Journal of the European Academy of Dermatology and Venereology; Influence of Facial Skin Attributes on the Perceived Age of Caucasian Women; A. Nkengne et al; August 2008
- Family Physician; Recognizing the Allergic Person; M. Marks; July 1977
- Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology; The Effects of Topical Application of Phytonadione, Retinol and Aitamins C and E on Infraorbital Dark Circles and Wrinkles of the Lower Eyelids; T. Mitsuishi; April 2004
- National Institutes of Health: Aging Changes in Skin
- Mayo Clinic: Dark Circles Under Eyes - When to See the Doctor
Member Comments