Dark circles under your eyes is a common condition that cuts across age and gender. As the appearance and beauty information website Dark Circles explains, dark under-eye circles aren't just due to lack of sleep. While that may be a cause, the more common explanation is that the darkness is caused by leaking capillaries. Dark Circles notes that these capillaries may leak hemoglobin, the molecule that gives red blood cells their color. Hemoglobin darkens when met with oxygen, which causes the under-eye discoloration. However, there are products available that may help promote regular coloring under your eyes.
Vitamin C
As Oklahoma State University's Linus Pauling Institute explains, vitamin C is a nutrient that can improve your immune system as well as many other parts of your body. One way in which vitamin C may help reduce the appearance of dark under-eye circles is by strengthening your blood vessels. The Linus Pauling Institute explains that vitamin C is an important structural part of blood vessels, so consuming more may prevent leaks that lead to escaping hemoglobin. The institute notes that vitamin C deficiency causes scurvy, a condition in which weak blood vessels may cause excessive bleeding and bruising, among other symptoms.
High-SPF Sunscreen
While broken or leaking blood vessels is one potential cause of dark circles under your eyes, MayoClinic.com explains that exposure to the sun may also cause this condition. This occurs because sunlight causes your body to produce melanin, a pigment that produces skin color--melanin is the reason your skin tans after being in the sun. To address this cause, you can try applying high-SPF sunscreen under your eyes. Remember to re-apply the sunscreen often, especially after going in the water.
Vitamin K
Another vitamin deficiency that may lead to dark under-eye circles is that of vitamin K. This vitamin is found in green, leafy vegetables, but more concentrated doses can be found in supplements. According to the online health resource Health 911, vitamin K also comes in creams, and is commonly used to reduce the appearance of post-operative bruises. Health 911 explains that vitamin K may help your capillaries heal and can assist in the re-absorption of leaked blood, which could eliminate the darkened skin. Health 911 notes that vitamin K deficiency may be the result of antibiotic intake, as vitamin K is produced by bacteria.
Zinc
Health 911 also suggests that taking zinc may help support healthy connective tissue and prevent the appearance of darkened skin. As the National Library of Medicine and National Institutes of Health explain, bruising is caused by leaked blood, the same mechanism that may cause dark under-eye circles. Because of this, zinc may be helpful in treating dark under-eye circles. Health 911 notes that high doses of zinc may interfere with your ability to absorb other minerals and suggests speaking with a doctor before use.
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