The real cause of dark circles under your eyes
The popular theory is that dark circles under the eyes are caused by a lack of sleep, or by straining one’s eyes. But while these are contributing factors, they’re not the top causes. We’ve found some of the things that are more likely to cause those pesky tired-looking peepers.
It’s all relative
Believe it or not, one of the top culprits for dark circles is your genes. Pigmentation problems will often run in families (especially in darker-skinned races and Asians), and if this is what is causing your sunken-looking eyes, there isn’t much you can do about it, except perhaps finding a concealer that works for you.
Allergens everywhere
Seasonal allergies could be giving your eyes those dark shadows. Things like hay fever, as well as everyday allergens from around the home or workplace can be causing inflammation. This inflammation enlarges the tiny blood vessels beneath your eyes, which in turn press against the skin, showing the purplish colour.
How do you combat this? If your allergies are of the airborne variety, try an antihistamine or prescription product from your doctor. If you’re allergic to other stimulants, you may need to see a specialist, such as a dermatologist to find the correct way to proceed.
You should also do your best to not rub your eyes when they’re itchy or irritated – doing this can cause more puffiness and discolouration.
All blocked up
If your nasal passages are congested, the veins from your eyes to your nose can become dilated and darken – causing dark circles.
To combat nasal congestion, there are many options available, so it’s important to find one that works best for you. You could invest in a humidifier, use a nasal saline spray, or lie with a warm compress on your face.
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