Dark circles under the eyes aren't just a cosmetic concern, they can also signal underlying health issues.
Dermatologists suggest that having dark undereye circles should be checked as they aren't just signalling a lack of sleep.
"Deficiencies of vitamins D, K and E and some vitamin Bs could be the cause of your dark circles.
advertisementHaving a proper nutritious diet, sleeping adequately every day and lowering stress levels can improve dark circles.
One overlooked tip for managing dark circles is to incorporate more magnesium-rich foods into your diet.
Dark circles under the eyes aren't just a cosmetic concern, they can also signal underlying health issues.
Dermatologists suggest that having dark undereye circles should be checked as they aren't just signalling a lack of sleep.
"Deficiencies of vitamins D, K and E and some vitamin Bs could be the cause of your dark circles. Check your vitamin levels and take supplements accordingly," advised Dr Deepali Bhardwaj.
advertisement
Dermatologist and cosmetologist Dr Shareefa Chause, Shareefa's Skin Care Clinic, said that conditions like poor sleep quality, allergies, and dehydration can all affect the delicate skin around the areas.
In some cases, they might be a symptom of iron deficiency or anaemia as well.
"Additionally, conditions like thyroid disorders or kidney problems could contribute to their appearance. If dark circles persist despite lifestyle changes, go to a doctor. Addressing the root cause through proper diagnosis and treatment can not only improve appearance," said Dr Shareefa Chause. Dark circles might be a symptom of iron deficiency or anaemia. (Photo: Getty Images)
Dr Bhardwaj highlighted the role of genetics in dark circles. "If people have dark circles in their teens or pre-teens, it is likely the cause is genetics. When genetics is the reason, the treatment gets a bit more difficult," the expert said.
To add to a person's woes, dark circles can worsen with age, added Dr Chause.
"This happens due to loosening of our skin and loss of subcutaneous fat. Due to ageing, the skin loses fat and collagen, causing the bluish blood vessels to start appearing and a loose translucent skin overlying the muscle and one may have dark circles," she said.
Besides this, Dr Bhardwaj said that deeper eye sockets can create the illusion of dark circles, since a shadow appears under the eyes.
"If you have dark sockets, dermatologists can inject a filler which is a hyaluronic acid base and fill up the space and the illusion of the shadow would go," said Dr Bhardwaj.
While lack of sleep does affect dark circles, other factors leading to deeper undereye tones are causes of medical conditions such as low haemoglobin, frequent rubbing of eyes, consuming over-the-counter pills, dry skin, and atopic dermatitis or eczema, which is a chronic (long-lasting) disease that causes inflammation, redness, and irritation of the skin.
advertisement
Having a proper nutritious diet, sleeping adequately every day and lowering stress levels can improve dark circles.
"Stress increases chronic inflammation which causes dark undereye circles. Have lesser refined, sugars, carbs, oily and deep-fried foods," said Dr Bhardwaj.
However, don't waste your money on undereye creams, the doctors advised.
"Don't burn your hard-earned money on undereye creams because most of them don't work for dark circles. Even vitamin C also doesn't work," added Dr Bhardwaj.
Among the market products you use, look for ingredients that have vitamin K, azelaic acid and retinol. Dr Bhardwaj advised applying these three ingredients two days each during the week but not together.
On the day you're not applying any of these ingredients, apply petroleum jelly or almond oil to keep the skin moisturised.
But make sure sunscreen is applied every day, she said.
Dr Chause said that massaging can help reduce fluid retention and improve circulation, ultimately helping to diminish the appearance of dark circles over time.
One should also have a balanced diet inclusive of all the vital nutrients. One overlooked tip for managing dark circles is to incorporate more magnesium-rich foods into your diet.
"Magnesium plays a crucial role in skin health and can help reduce inflammation and puffiness around the eyes. Foods like almonds, pistachio, spinach, and avocados are excellent sources of magnesium that can contribute to brighter, healthier-looking skin. Use sunscreen and moisturisers recommended by the doctor only," said Dr Chause.
Published By: Daphne Clarance Published On: Apr 19, 2024
