Dark circles, also known as periorbital hyperpigmentation, can appear at any age due to various factors. They can make you look tired and dull. Dark circles are classified based on clinical analysis of pigmentation and vascular patterns into the following types:
1. Pigmented - Appears as a brown hue under the eyes.
2. Vascular - Shows a purple, blue, or pink hue, sometimes with puffiness.
3. Structural - Linked to the shape of the lower eyelid.
4. Mixed type - A combination of two or more of the above types.
Consult a doctor, if discoloration persists for a long time or appears under just one eye.
Causes of Dark Circles:
Heredity
Stress
Thinning of the skin due to collagen and fat loss with age
Smoking
Alcohol consumption
Uncorrected vision problems
Lack of sleep
Fatigue
Prolonged screen time, including phones, computers, and TVs, leading to eye strain
Medical conditions like thyroid disorders, eczema, anemia, or allergies
Iron deficiency
Dark circles are one of the most common beauty concerns affecting people of all ages.
Preventive Measures to Avoid Dark Circles:
Get 8-9 hours of quality sleep.
Maintain a healthy diet, avoiding excessive salt and alcohol, which can cause puffiness.
Protect your skin from sun exposure, as it worsens dark circles.
Quit smoking.
Include vitamins E and C in your diet to combat free radical damage.
Gently remove eye makeup using a mild cleanser.
Perform facial exercises to improve circulation.
Manage your stress.
Consume collagen-rich foods to maintain skin elasticity.
The delicate skin around the eyes requires extra care to prevent dark circles from forming or worsening.
Tips to Manage Dark Circles:
Get enough sleep to allow proper skin regeneration.
Apply a cold compress to reduce swelling and puffiness.
Moisturize your skin.
Use an eye pad that contains caffeine and vitamin K.
Reduce salty foods and beverages, and replace them with water.
Apply sunscreen before stepping out.
There is a potential link between kidney issues and the sudden appearance of dark circles. If you notice sudden or severe discoloration, consult a doctor.
Lifestyle Changes to Naturally Reduce Dark Circles:
Do relaxation exercises.
Eat a nutritious diet.
Limit caffeine consumption.
Include vitamin C-rich foods in your diet.
Use a dermatologically tested eye cream.
"If I looked in the mirror someday and saw no dark circles under my eyes, I would probably look better. I just wouldn't look like me" - Sarah Vowell.
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