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Dark Circles Under Eyes: Causes, Treatments, and Prevention Tips
Dark Circles Under Eyes: Causes, Treatments, and Prevention Tips
Dark circles under the eyes are a common skincare concern that affects people of all ages. They can make you look tired, stressed, or older than you really are. But what exactly causes dark circles, and how can you get rid of them?
In this article, we’ll explore the main causes of dark circles, the best treatments available, and practical prevention tips to keep your eyes looking fresh and youthful.
What Causes Dark Circles Under the Eyes?
Dark circles are often caused by a combination of factors, including genetics, lifestyle habits, and medical conditions. Below are the most common reasons why people develop dark circles:
1. Genetics & Skin Type
- Some people naturally have thinner skin under their eyes, making blood vessels more visible.
- Dark circles can run in families due to genetic pigmentation.
- People with darker skin tones are more prone to hyperpigmentation around the eyes.
2. Lack of Sleep & Fatigue
- When you don’t get enough sleep, your skin becomes paler, making dark blood vessels under the eyes more noticeable.
- Sleep deprivation also leads to fluid retention, causing puffy eyes that cast shadows.
3. Dehydration
- Not drinking enough water can cause dull, sunken skin, making dark circles more prominent.
- Dehydration affects blood circulation, leading to a tired, lackluster appearance.
4. Sun Exposure
- Excessive sun exposure increases melanin production, which can darken the skin under the eyes.
- UV rays also accelerate collagen breakdown, making under-eye skin thinner.
5. Allergies & Sinus Issues
- Allergies cause inflammation and swelling, leading to dark blood vessels under the eyes.
- Constant rubbing of the eyes worsens pigmentation.
- Sinus congestion affects blood flow, making the under-eye area appear darker.
6. Aging & Collagen Loss
- As you age, your skin loses collagen and elasticity, making the under-eye area appear thinner.
- Less collagen means more visible blood vessels, leading to a darker appearance.
7. Poor Diet & Nutritional Deficiencies
- A lack of iron can cause poor oxygen circulation, making dark circles more noticeable.
- A low-protein or vitamin-deficient diet affects skin health, making the under-eye area look dull.
8. Excessive Screen Time
- Staring at a screen for long hours strains your eyes, causing blood vessels to dilate and darken.
- Digital fatigue leads to increased puffiness and tired-looking eyes.
Best Treatments for Dark Circles
If lifestyle changes and home remedies aren’t enough, professional treatments can help reduce dark circles effectively. Here are the most popular options:
1. Laser Treatments
💡 How It Works:
- Lasers like Pico Laser, Q-Switched Laser, and Fraxel Laser target pigmentation, stimulate collagen, and improve skin texture.
- The laser breaks down excess melanin and boosts skin renewal, reducing dark circles.
✅ Best For:
- Pigmentation-related dark circles.
- Thinning skin that needs collagen stimulation.
💰 Cost in Singapore:
- SGD 250 – 800 per session (3-6 sessions recommended).
2. Dermal Fillers (Hyaluronic Acid Fillers)
💡 How It Works:
- Injecting hyaluronic acid fillers (e.g., Restylane, Juvederm, Teosyal Redensity II) restores lost volume and reduces hollow under-eyes.
- This treatment plumps up sunken skin, reducing the appearance of shadows.
✅ Best For:
- Deep tear troughs & hollow under-eyes.
- Age-related dark circles due to collagen loss.
💰 Cost in Singapore:
- SGD 600 – 1,500 per session (lasts 6-12 months).
3. Chemical Peels
💡 How It Works:
- Mild acids like glycolic acid, lactic acid, or TCA exfoliate the skin and reduce pigmentation.
- Peels improve skin texture and brightness, lightening dark circles over time.
✅ Best For:
- Pigmentation and uneven skin tone.
💰 Cost in Singapore:
- SGD 150 – 500 per session.
4. Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) Therapy
💡 How It Works:
- PRP, also called the “Vampire Facial,” uses your own blood’s platelets to stimulate collagen and rejuvenate under-eye skin.
- Improves skin texture, blood circulation, and elasticity.
✅ Best For:
- Thin skin under the eyes.
- People looking for natural, long-term improvement.
💰 Cost in Singapore:
- SGD 800 – 2,000 per session.
5. Microneedling with Skin Boosters
💡 How It Works:
- Uses fine needles to create micro-injuries, boosting collagen and skin renewal.
- Can be combined with vitamin C or hyaluronic acid skin boosters for added hydration.
✅ Best For:
- Mild to moderate dark circles.
- Dull, dehydrated under-eye skin.
💰 Cost in Singapore:
- SGD 250 – 600 per session.
Home Remedies & Prevention Tips
If your dark circles are mild, the following home remedies and lifestyle changes can help:
1. Stay Hydrated
💧 Drink at least 8 glasses of water daily to keep skin plump and hydrated.
2. Get Enough Sleep
😴 Aim for 7-9 hours of sleep every night to prevent blood vessel dilation and puffiness.
3. Use Cold Compresses
🧊 Apply chilled cucumber slices, ice packs, or cold tea bags to reduce swelling and dark circles.
4. Apply Retinol & Vitamin C Eye Creams
🌟 Use eye creams with retinol, vitamin C, caffeine, or peptides to boost collagen and brighten under-eye skin.
5. Wear Sunscreen Daily
☀️ Protect your skin from UV rays to prevent pigmentation and premature aging.
6. Reduce Screen Time
📱 Take breaks from digital screens to reduce eye strain and fatigue.
7. Eat a Nutrient-Rich Diet
🥦 Include foods high in iron, vitamin K, vitamin C, and omega-3 for healthy skin.
8. Avoid Rubbing Your Eyes
🙅♂️ Rubbing can cause skin damage and increased pigmentation, making dark circles worse.
Final Thoughts
Dark circles can be frustrating, but with the right treatment and lifestyle changes, you can achieve brighter, fresher-looking eyes.
✔️ If your dark circles are mild, try hydration, eye creams, and home remedies.
✔️ For stubborn dark circles, consider laser treatments, fillers, or PRP therapy.
✔️ A healthy lifestyle, proper sleep, and sun protection can prevent dark circles from worsening.
If you’re unsure which treatment is best for you, consult a licensed aesthetic doctor in Singapore for a personalized treatment plan.
