Tired of looking tired? Read on to find out how to get rid of your dark under-eye circles.
One of the most frustrating skin issues to have is dark under-eye circles and eye bags. They can make you look haggard and tired than you really are. Find yourself answering questions about your health from well-meaning friends and family? Dr. Meghan O’ Brien, Kiehl’s Global Consulting Dermatologist shares why dark circles appear and what you can do about them.
Dr. Meghan O’ Brien is a board-certified dermatologist specialising in comprehensive medical and cosmetic dermatology. Her areas of expertise include inflammatory conditions of the skin including acne, rosacea, eczema and psoriasis, skin cancer prevention and treatment, photo rejuvenation, anti-aging and cosmetics procedures.
What are some leading causes of dark circles?
“There are three common causes of dark circles. First, dark circles can be a result of increased superficial blood flow that is visible through the thin-skinned area under the eye. The second leading cause is the variation in pigment of the under-eye skin itself – this skin can be lighter or darker depending on genetics. Dark circles can also be caused by volume loss, or age-related hollowing of the under eye area. This can create a shadow, or post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (temporary discoloration of the skin as a result of injury from eczema, contact dermatitis or other rashes).”
How can I tell which type of dark circles I have – blue or brown?
“A simple way to check would be to lightly stretch the eyelid skin – this would make the blue colour in blue dark-eye circles more visible and would not alter the color in brown under eye circles.”
How are the causes of blue and brown dark circles different?
“Blue under-eye circles are a result of superficial blood vessels being visible through the thin skin of the eyelids. Brown dark circles are a result of the pigment in the skin, which can be hereditary.”
Are dark circles and crow’s feet hereditary?
“Brown circles can certainly be hereditary since they are more closely linked to genetic skin tone. Crow’s feet on the other hand, are a result of the contracting circular muscle around the eyes. Some people contract these muscles more than others when smiling. Increased contraction over time will leave resting lines or wrinkles.”
When should I start using eye cream?
“It’s never too early! But generally by late 20’s or early 30’s the under eyes will start showing signs of aging. This is a good time to begin treating these changes to the skin.”
What can I do to prevent premature ageing around the eyes?
“Daily sunscreen coupled with an eye cream – specifically one that promotes collagen. This will help prevent pigment formation as well as increase moisture for the unique needs of the under eye skin.”
Power up With Vitamin C
If you didn’t already know, Vitamin C is a active ingredient that works wonders on most skin concerns and is essential in a good skincare routine. From acne to pigmentation, skin-ageing and yes, even dark under-eye circles, this overachieving ingredient is instrumental in helping you overcome those issues. Give your eyes the care it deserves with the new addition to Kiehl’s Dermatologist Solutions line, the Powerful Strength Line-Reducing & Dark Circle-Diminishing Vitamin C Eye Serum.
Its formula contains a powerhouse of potent ingredients that include Tri-Peptide Complex, hyaluronic acid and 10% pure Vitamin C. This means that its at the ideal concentration level for maximum effectiveness without irritating the skin. See under-eye concerns such as fine lines, crow’s feet, puffiness reduced and the appearance of both blue and brown dark circles diminished in a matter of weeks!
The Powerful-Strength Line-Reducing & Dark Circle-Diminishing Vitamin C Eye Serum 15ml, RM200, is available online and all Kiehl’s stores in September.
Photo by Angelos Michalopoulos on Unsplash
