Dark Circles Under eyes

Understanding Dark Circles: Causes and Remedies

Dark circles under the eyes are a common concern that can make you look tired, stressed, or older than you feel.

But what causes these shadowy rings, and how can you address them effectively?

Let’s delve into the science behind dark circles and explore ways to mitigate them.

What Causes Dark Circles?

Dark circles are influenced by a combination of genetics, lifestyle, and physiological factors. Here’s a breakdown:

  1. Thin Skin and Blood Vessels
    The skin under the eyes is thinner and more delicate than other areas of the body. Blood vessels close to the surface can give a bluish or purplish hue, which becomes more prominent in individuals with fair skin or as skin thins with age.

  2. Hyperpigmentation
    Some people experience dark circles due to increased melanin production (hyperpigmentation). This is more common in individuals with darker skin tones and can be exacerbated by sun exposure or inflammation.

  3. Allergies and Nasal Congestion
    Allergies can dilate blood vessels and lead to puffiness and discoloration. Similarly, nasal congestion can cause veins around the eyes to darken.

  4. Fatigue and Sleep Deprivation
    Lack of sleep can make skin look pale, emphasizing shadows and blood vessels beneath the eyes. Moreover, poor sleep increases cortisol levels, which may affect blood flow and exacerbate discoloration.

  5. Age-Related Changes
    As we age, the skin loses collagen and elasticity, making the under-eye area appear hollowed or sunken, which casts shadows that mimic dark circles.

The Science of Remedies

While dark circles may not be entirely preventable, several evidence-based strategies can help reduce their appearance:

  1. Hydration and Nutrition
    Staying hydrated and maintaining a balanced diet rich in vitamins (like Vitamin K and C) supports skin health. Iron deficiency anemia can also contribute to dark circles, so addressing nutrient deficiencies is crucial.

  2. Sleep and Stress Management
    Prioritize 7–9 hours of quality sleep each night. Adequate rest helps the body repair and rejuvenate skin, reducing the visibility of dark circles.

  3. Topical Treatments

    • Retinoids: These vitamin A derivatives boost collagen production and can thicken the skin, reducing the visibility of blood vessels.
    • Caffeine: Found in eye creams, caffeine constricts blood vessels and reduces puffiness.
    • Vitamin C: Helps lighten pigmentation and protects against free radical damage.

  4. Sun Protection
    Use sunscreen daily to prevent hyperpigmentation and premature skin aging, which can worsen dark circles.

  5. Professional Interventions

    • PRP (Platelet-Rich Plasma) -  Book PRP treatment here

      PRP therapy involves taking a small amount of your blood, processing it to concentrate platelets and growth factors, and injecting it into the under-eye area. The science:

      1. Collagen and Elastin Stimulation
        Platelets release growth factors like Platelet-Derived Growth Factor (PDGF) and Transforming Growth Factor-Beta (TGF-β), which stimulate fibroblasts to produce collagen and elastin. This thickens the skin, reducing the visibility of blood vessels and shadows.

      2. Improved Skin Texture and Pigmentation
        PRP promotes skin cell turnover, helping to address pigmentation irregularities and improve skin tone.

      3. Angiogenesis
        PRP enhances blood vessel health and circulation, reducing under-eye puffiness and improving skin vitality. 

    • Polynucleotides -  Book Polynucleotides treatment here

      Polynucleotides are biopolymers derived from DNA fragments, often sourced from natural salmon DNA, known for their regenerative properties. When injected into the under-eye area, they work by:

      1. Skin Regeneration
        Polynucleotides stimulate dermal fibroblasts, enhancing cell repair and promoting collagen production. This helps restore volume and elasticity, reducing hollowing and shadowing.

      2. Hydration and Anti-Inflammation
        They attract water molecules, improving skin hydration and reducing dryness-related pigmentation. Their anti-inflammatory properties can also calm puffiness and irritation.

      3. Angiogenesis and Vascular Health
        Polynucleotides support new blood vessel formation, improving oxygen and nutrient supply to the area, which can diminish dark discoloration over time. 

    • Chemical Peels: Target hyperpigmentation with agents like glycolic acid or kojic acid. Book chemical Peels here

Home Remedies to Try

  • Cold Compresses: Applying a cold compress or chilled cucumber slices can reduce swelling and temporarily brighten the area.
  • Tea Bags: Cooled, used tea bags (preferably green or black tea) can reduce puffiness due to their natural tannins and caffeine content.

The answer to under eye bag treatments, dark circle treatments and the best treatment for dark circles is ... complex. It involves things you can do at home, along with some things you can do in clinic.

Look at these results from Polynucleotides. We recommend one full set of three sessions and then one off sessions up to once a year (but if you have a good routine at home etc, you may not even need any follow ups!). 

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