DARK CIRCLES
Infraorbital dark circles are generally not a cause of medical concern; however, they are aesthetically unpleasing for many individuals, particularly for women, and can occur across all age brackets.
Causes
Their aetiology is complex and multi-factorial, and there are numerous intrinsic and extrinsic factors associated with their occurrence. Visually, dark circles are characterized by differences in colour between the palpebral and surrounding areas of facial skin. The colour of the palpebral skin is strongly associated with intrinsic factors, such as an individual’s ethnic origin and genetics, including the amount and quality of melanin pigment in the skin.
Triggering Factors
Dark circles are most often associated with
Tiredness
Sleep Deprivation and
Fatigue
However, there are numerous other extrinsic and lifestyle-related triggers, including
Illness
Infections
Atopy and Allergies
Stress
Hormonal changes
Chronic irritation of the eye area
Eye strain
Exposure to UV light
Dehydration
Poor nutrition
Vitamin Deficiency
Excessive Alcohol Consumption & Smoking
Certain medicines, such as non-steroidal anti-inflammatory and chemotherapy drugs
The anatomy of the eye area is complex and can also be a contributory factor