(Credit-Canva)

(Credit-Canva)

Updated Feb 20, 2025 | 10:00 PM IST

Do Dark Circles Mean More Than Just Stress And Sleep Deprivation?

SummaryDark circles are most often seen as signs of poor sleep and stress. You’d be surprised to know there could be some serious underlying reasons why you may have them. Here is what you need to know.

When people see dark circles, they immediately assume you lack sleep. One of the first thoughts that cross people’s minds is that ‘this person needs to take a nap really bad’. But is that all there is to it? Dark circles are hyperpigmentation that develop around one’s eyes. Many try to cover it with make-up or opt for cosmetic procedures, but what if you get to know this feature is a sign of something worse?

Some people believe that dark circles are solely cosmetic issues, but studies show that hyperpigmentation could allude to something bigger. If your dark circles aren't from a health problem, there are other reasons why you might have them. One big reason is your family. If your parents or brothers and sisters have dark circles, you're more likely to have them too. Also, the shape of your face can make a difference. If your eyes are deep-set, the shadows can make the skin look darker. One thing you must remember is that dark circles are a symptom, not an illness or disease itself. While you can apply creams and serums to lower its effects, unless you resolve or understand the reason why you have dark circles, you may not be able to handle them as efficiently.

What Are Some Conditions That Cause Dark Circles?

Dark circles under your eyes aren't always just because you're tired. Sometimes, it's allergies, like when your nose gets stuffy. Or, it could be your thyroid, which is a little gland in your neck that helps control your body. And, as you get older, your skin changes, and that can make dark circles show up more. The color of the circles can be different, like blue or brown, depending on your skin. Most of the time, they're not a sign of anything bad. But you might want to make them less noticeable because you don't like how they look. Sometimes, they can tell you that you need to sleep more or eat better.

Lots of things can cause dark circles. If you don't sleep well or enough, you'll probably get them. If you have allergies, your eyes might get puffy and dark. When your body makes too much of the stuff that colors your skin, it can make dark circles. As you get older, you lose fat around your eyes, and your skin gets thinner, which makes dark circles worse. If you don't have enough iron, or if you're in the sun too much, or if you rub your eyes a lot, that can cause dark circles too. Smoking, having problems with your thyroid, and not drinking enough water can also make them happen. Some eye drops can even make your eyes look dark. If you have dark skin, or if you're older, or if your parents had dark circles, you're more likely to get them too. While they may be a harmless feature, this darkening of skin affects a lot of people mentally and emotionally. Here are some home remedies you can try to help with it.

Home Remedies To Tackle Dark Circles

Simple Home Fixes for Dark Circles: Easy home tricks can lessen dark circles. Though not always proven, they're cheap and safe, offering a natural way to improve under-eye appearance.

Restful Sleep for Brighter Eyes: Getting enough good sleep helps reduce dark circles. Elevating your head with extra pillows can also minimize puffiness and under-eye shadows.

Cool Cucumber Relief: Cucumber slices soothe tired eyes and reduce swelling. Their water and vitamin C nourish skin, while silica supports healthy tissue, easing dark circle visibility.

Tea Bag Eye Refreshment: Tea bags can reduce dark circles and puffiness. Caffeine's antioxidants boost circulation. Cooled tea bags offer soothing relief when placed over the eyes.

Facial Massage and Cold Compresses: Gentle facial massages improve eye circulation, reducing dark circles. Cold compresses also lessen puffiness, offering simple ways to brighten the under-eye area.

Antioxidant Skin Care Benefits: Creams with antioxidants like vitamins E and C can improve dark circles. These products help treat under-eye discoloration, promoting a more refreshed look.

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