Most people strive for a flattering complexion, but dark under-eye circles can cause you to look tired, old, or hollow. This imperfection can be hard to treat, especially if you’re not sure what’s causing it. Luckily, there are cosmetic procedures that can refresh your eyes and help even out your skin tone.
At Dr. Ghatan Dermatology, Cosmetic & Laser Surgery, his office in the Midwood section of Brooklyn, New York, Dr. Eliot Ghatan is a dermatologist who specializes in cosmetic and medical procedures, including the treatment of under-eye circles. Before any treatment, he tries to pin down the reason for your dark circles, and helps you determine the course of action best for you.
What causes dark circles under the eyes?
Dark under-eye circles can be caused by a number of factors, but they’re usually harmless. Most often, they’re result of the following factors:
Lack of sleep
Sleep deprivation and fatigue causes your skin to appear thin and your eyes to puff, leading to shadows under the eyes.
Dehydration
A lack of water can cause your eyes to appear sunken and dark.
Sun exposure
Melanin is a common cause of dark under-eye circles, and sun exposure often leads to a higher rate of melanin production.
Too much screen time
Straining your eyes to look at a screen causes them to darken.
Allergies
Histamines lead to heightened blood flow to the face, and rubbing at itchy eyes can only worsen your puffy eyes and dark circles.
Genetics
Dark under-eye circles can be hereditary, and pigment irregularities are more common among people of color.
Aging
As we age, the skin under our eyes begins to thin. This is a common cause of under-eye circles.
How can I treat under-eye circles?
Depending on the cause of your darkened eyes, you might find a natural solution by sleeping more, limiting screen time, drinking more water, or taking antihistamines. Makeup can also lighten under-eye circles.
However, when the problem refuses to go away, you can seek treatment to rejuvenate the eyes. Laser treatments can reduce the appearance of under-eye circles caused by broken blood vessels.
Oftentimes, dark circles under the eyes are caused by shadows and a loss of volume. Injectable fillers can replace this lost volume and fill out the face, making you look younger and fresher.
If you’re unhappy with your tired or aged appearance, rejuvenating your eyes might be the first step to completely transforming your appearance. You can reach Dr. Ghatan at his Ocean Parkway practice by phone, or you can book an appointment online.
