Dark circles refer to darkened or shadowed areas beneath the lower eyelids. They may appear brown, blue, purple, or grey in colour and can result from a range of factors, including pigmentation, visible blood vessels, volume loss, or thinning of the skin. In some individuals, dark circles are primarily related to genetics or skin type, while in others they may fluctuate due to lifestyle or medical influences.
It is important to distinguish dark circles from other under-eye concerns, as management approaches may differ. These include eye bags caused by fat pad prominence or swelling, tear troughs characterised by hollowing beneath the eyes, and periorbital swelling associated with allergies or fluid retention. Careful assessment helps identify the underlying contributors and whether treatment may be appropriate.
Symptoms and appearance
Dark circles can vary in colour, intensity, and distribution. They may present as uniform or patchy darkening beneath the eyes, a bluish or purplish hue related to visible blood vessels, or shadowing caused by volume loss in the tear trough area. In some cases, dark circles may appear more pronounced when the skin is thin, dehydrated, or lax.
The appearance of dark circles may fluctuate throughout the day and can be influenced by fatigue, illness, fluid shifts, or inflammation.
Common causes of dark circles
Several factors may contribute to the development or prominence of dark circles.
- Pigmentation changes may result in brown discolouration beneath the eyes, particularly in individuals with darker skin tones or a history of inflammation or sun exposure.
- Vascular factors can contribute to a bluish or purplish appearance when blood vessels are visible through thin under-eye skin.
- Volume loss and structural changes, including tear trough hollowing, may create shadows that give the appearance of dark circles even in the absence of true pigmentation.
- Skin thinning associated with ageing can make underlying vessels more visible and reduce light reflection under the eyes.
- Lifestyle factors, such as inadequate sleep, smoking, chronic sun exposure, and eye rubbing, may further worsen the appearance of dark circles.
In some cases, medical considerations such as allergies, eczema, sinus congestion, or iron deficiency may contribute to under-eye darkening. A dermatologist’s assessment can help determine whether dark circles are primarily cosmetic or related to an underlying medical condition.
How dark circles may be assessed
Dermatologists who consult at Northside Dermatology may assess skin thickness and quality, pigmentation patterns, vascular visibility, tear trough depth, facial structure, and relevant medical history. This assessment helps guide whether management may involve lifestyle measures, dermatological treatment options, medical management, or further investigation, depending on individual findings and clinical diagnosis.
