However, many people want to knowhow to get rid of under-eye bagsand dark circles for cosmetic reasons.

The color of dark circles under your eyes can vary but will be darker than your typical skin color.

It will generally be in the blue, purple, brown, or black range.

Woman using make up in the bathroom to cover dark circles under the eyes

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You may also note darker circles if the under-eye area has puffiness or bags due to shadowing.

Many people note dark circles occurring temporarily.

Others have chronic dark circles, although they may be lighter or darker from day to day.

These conditions can lead to post-inflammatory pigmentation and the appearance of dark circles.

This can make the reddish-blue blood vessels under your eyes more visible.

Also, some people might develop puffy eyelids or hollows under their eyes as they age.

These physical changes can cast shadows that appear to be dark circles under the eyes.

Many people associate dark circles or bags under their eyes with fatigue.

When fatigued, the blood flow to the infraorbital area can slow down.

Since the skin in that area is thin, the pooled blood can create a darker hue.

At the same time, pooled blood can stretch blood vessels, creating swollen bags under the eyes.

Smoking can cause you to lose collagen, making the already-thin skin beneath the eyes even thinner.

This can make the appearance of dark circles more dramatic.

Genetics plays an important role in the formation of dark circles.

However, some treatment options may help.

It helps to understand whats causing your dark circleslike lack of sleep, allergies, or thin skin.

Self-Care

Sometimes, dark eyes can reflect the fact that you’re not taking care of yourself.

double-check to get enough sleep, drink plenty of water, and avoid smoking.

Not getting enough sleep can also increase stress, which can worsen dark circles.

Youll probably feel better overall and may see your dark circles lighten.

give a shot to reduce or eliminate sun exposure on your face.

verify you are wearing sunscreen with a sun protection factor (SPF) of 30 every day.

Sunglasses and hats can protect the skin from the sun and prevent your dark under-eye circles from getting worse.

Then rinse the area with water.

Take a daily antihistamine during the time of year when your symptoms are worst.

Use an air purifier, keep the windows closed, and shower before bed.

Are There Tests to Diagnose the Cause of Dark Circles Under the Eyes?

The healthcare provider will take a medical history and report of symptoms and do a physical examination.

Allergy testingby blood tests or skin tests may be used to determine which allergies may be present.

When to See a Healthcare Provider

Dark circles under your eyes are usually a benign cosmetic condition.

Summary

Dark circles can be a cosmetic issue for many people.

They can also be brought on by fatigue, allergies, smoking, and aging.

First, double-check youre getting enough sleep and keeping stress levels low.

Use an OTC eye cream.

If that doesnt work, talk to a healthcare provider about cosmetic procedures, including fillers or laser treatment.

Dark circles under the eyes are often a few shades of deeper pigment than the surrounding skin.

They may be puffy and inflamed or sagging.

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