Causes and Solutions
| Neostrata Dark Circle Night Serum – contains Vitamin K and retinol, two ingredients that have been shown clinically to relieve under eye dark circles. Under eye circles start to diminish in only 4 weeks after use once daily. And after 8 weeks, a significant improvement is noticeable.
Depending on the cause, other ingredients including Vitamin C, kinetin and alpha hydroxy acids and skin lightening agents may also prove beneficial in resolving under eye dark circles. Here are some products that you may want to consider. If excessive pigmentation is the cause, skin lightening agents including kojic acid, hydroquinone and other botanical lighteners may help. Always test first to minimize irritation. La Roche Posay Active C Eyes and Redermic Eyes contain Vitamin C at a 5% concentration. In some clinical studies, Vitamin C has been shown to improve the appearance of under eye dark circles. Which one to choose? Active C Eyes was formulated for women 30+, while Redermic contains the added benefit of madecassoside, a botanical ingredient that delivers additional collagen boosting power. It is formulated for women 40+. Reversa Anti-Wrinkle Cream contains 4% glycolic acid (an alpha hydroxy acid) as well as SPF 15 protection; Neostrata Eye Contour All In One Serum is formulated with peptides, retinol and skin lightening agents to enhance the appearance of the under they eye area. Read on for more information. |
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What causes under eye dark circles?
There are a number of reasons why we may experience dark circles under the eyes:
- Pigmentation.
An over production of melanin (the same pigment that results in tanning) may also result in dark circles under the eyes. The sun and hormones may be to blame. Always protect the under eye area with sunscreen or sunglasses. A skin lightening product may help. But test first or check with a physician to ensure that you don’t unintentionally harm this delicate region. Caution especially with hydroquinone 4%. While recognized as a highly effective skin lightening agent, it is also irritating and may not be suitable for treating dark circles. - Our genes.
Dark circles tend to run in families so one of the causes may be hereditary. - Nasal congestion
When your nose is congested, veins that usually drain from your eyes into your nose widen (dilate) and darken. If allergies are the culprit, eliminate the allergen or take an antihistamine. - Sleep
Gravity can cause fluid to collect in your lower eyelids and the swelling may create the appearance of shadows below your eyes. Sleep on your back to decrease the chances of that happening. Additionally a lack of sleep can make the skin appear more pale which allows the blood vessels under the skin to become more prominent. - Fluid retention
Lack of sleep, high blood pressure, smoking or other medical conditions may be the culprit. Quit smoking, get more sleep or check with your healthcare provider if you suspect you may have a medical condition. - Thinning skin or fat pads under the eyes
Aging or prolonged sun exposure may cause blood vessels under the skin to appear more visible giving rise to dark circles under the eyes. - Chronic skin conditions
Atopic eczema may also cause under eye dark circles. - Dehydration
Dark circles under the eyes may be a sign of dehydration.
How can treat dark circles under the eyes?
- Hydrate yourself to prevent dehydation. Aim for 8 to 10 glasses each day.
- Wear sunscreen with a minimum of SPF 30 under the eyes to prevent skin weakening caused by sun damage. Try the Anthelios line of sunscreens, which offer effective protection from both UVA and UVB rays. Click here to find out more.
- Sleep on your back to reduce fluid build up and strive for 8 hours each night.
- Consume a diet high in antioxidants (such as fruits and vegetables) which contain nutrients like Vitamin C that help to strengthen the supporting structure of blood vessels. Supplement if you need to.
- Use an under eye concealer if they just won’t go away. Some skin types, especially those that are darker, have a tendency towards under eye dark circles. In this case it is very difficult to eliminate them.
- Consider an under eye product that contains Vitamin K plus retinol. A study in the Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology has shown that a combination of 1% Vitamin K plus 0.3% retinol helps to reduce the appearance of dark circles under the eyes. Vitamin K 1% with a lower concentration of retinol may be found in Neostrata Dark Circle Night Serum. Retinol is a very effective but potentially irritating exfoliant. Use caution if you have senstive skin. It should be tolerated well by other skin types.
- Surgery anyone?
If all else fails, consider laser therapy which can thicken the skin by increasing collagen production, so you are less likely to see veins. Consult an experienced dermatologist before proceeding.
