Dark eye circles are a very common problem which bothers many young people. They can make you look tired, dull, and older than your age.
The causes of dark circles under the eyes vary, and the treatment depends on the cause.
Common causes of under-eye circles are:
a. Pigmentation: Pigmentation is a common skin condition in which patches of skin become darker than the surrounding skin. This is caused by an excess production of melanin. While mainly genetic, factors such as sun exposure, nasal or skin allergies, inflammation from acne or injury can increase pigmentation around the eye.
b. Loss of undereye volume: Aging reduces bony support and superficial fat around the eyes, making the eyes appear hollow and sunken. The resultant depression creates a shadow under the light resembling a dark circle. Although it is age related, there are some who have them as a natural deformity from a young age.
c. Loose skin: Loose skin causes fine lines and crinkling of under-eye skin, giving the appearance of dark eye circles.
For most people, I would recommend trying PicoSure laser treatment. PicoSure is a picosecond laser treatment approved by the US FDA, which is effective in reducing pigmentation and tightening skin. It reduces pigmentation by delivering an ultra-short pulse of energy to the skin in picoseconds (trillionths of a second), shattering the pigment into tiny dust-like particles, which are then absorbed by the lymphatic system and eliminated naturally. PicoSure also has a unique focus lens, which is effective in tightening the skin through stimulation of collagen. It works by creating LIOB or laser-induced optical breakdown though photomechanical disruption.
Fillers containing hyaluronic acid is a good option to replace lost volume around the eyes. Hyaluronic acid, which is naturally found in the skin, fills the depression under the eyes and hydrates the skin, reducing the appearance of dark eye circles. Fillers such as Juvederm and Restylane are safe and ideal for under-eye rejuvenation.
Skin resurfacing lasers like Fraxel Dual laser and ultrasound-based devices like Ultherapy can also help by renewing and revitalising tired skin. These treatments are effective in dark eye circles caused by loose skin.
Hope the above helps!
Dr. Terence Tan
