Periorbital Hyperpigmentation (Dark Circles)

What is Dark Circles?

What are Dark Circles Under Eyes?

Dark circles under eyes refer to a black or brown discoloration of skin under the eyes caused by the build-up of melanin. They are also known as periorbital dark circles or periorbital hyperpigmentation (POH). These circles tend to be more noticeable in people with fair skin.

What are Eye Bags Or Puffy Eyes?

Under-eye bags refer to the soft swelling or puffiness under the eyes, which are a common occurrence as one grows older and the muscles supporting the eyelids and the tissues around the eyes become weaker. This can cause fat supporting the eyes to shift into the lower eyelids, making them look bloated. Additionally, fluid buildup can also occur below the eyes. Sometimes there is under-eye hollow due to aging. Looking for a dark circles treatment? book an appointment with La Derma Skin Clinic (Best Dermatologist in Kolkata) at affordable rates.

Dark Circles Causes

Dark Circles Under Eye Causes or Reasons

The likelihood of developing dark circles is influenced by both genetics and skin tone.

The common causes are as follows:

• Heredity (or Constitutional POH): The production and distribution of melanin throughout the body are governed by genetic factors, which directly impact the occurrence of hyperpigmentation around the eyes.
• Nutritional Deficiency: Discoloration under the eyes can be caused by deficiencies in iron and Vitamin-K.
• Peri-Orbital Edema: When fluid accumulates under the eye, it causes a “puffy” appearance. Reasons for this can include allergies, salt and water retention, high blood pressure, medical disorders (e.g. liver, thyroid, kidney), and sinus infections, which can result in post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation.
• Prominent Vasculature: The underlying vasculature becomes more noticeable due to the reduced thickness of the skin around the eyes, especially around veins, causing the area to appear darker.
• Aging: As we age, collagen in our skin begins to degrade, leading to hyperpigmentation, sagging skin, fine lines, and wrinkles. The skin under the eyes becomes thinner, and blood vessels become more prominent, contributing to the darkening of the under-eye area.
• Tear Trough Depression: This age-related change occurs due to the loss of fat content, thinning of the overlying skin, and descent of the cheek area, resulting in a hollowing effect under the eye. This casts shadows, giving the appearance of dark circles.
• Acanthosis Nigricans: This condition causes the skin to thicken and take on a velvet-pigmented appearance around the eyes. It is related to an insulin hormone imbalance and other metabolic disorders.
• Other Causes: Additional causes of dark circles include post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, dermal Melano cytosis, and pigmentary demarcation lines.

Symptoms

Dark Circles Symptoms

Dark circles under the eyes are a common cosmetic concern and can be a result of various factors. While they are typically not a sign of a serious medical condition, they can be bothersome and may have underlying causes. The primary symptom of dark circles is the appearance of dark, discolored patches or rings under the eyes. These circles can vary in color from blue or purple to brown or black.

Here are some common symptoms of dark circles:

• Discoloration: Dark circles typically manifest as areas of skin under the eyes that are darker than the surrounding skin. The discoloration can vary in intensity.
• Puffiness: In some cases, dark circles may be accompanied by puffiness or swelling under the eyes. This can give the appearance of bags under the eyes, which may exacerbate the perception of dark circles.
• Fine Lines: Dark circles can sometimes be more noticeable in individuals with fine lines or wrinkles around the eyes, as the contrast between the dark circles and the lines can make them appear more prominent.
• Allergies: Allergic reactions, such as seasonal allergies, can cause the blood vessels under the eyes to become more prominent and may contribute to dark circles.
• Aging: As people age, the skin under the eyes can become thinner, which can make blood vessels and dark pigmentation more visible, leading to the appearance of dark circles.
• Dehydration: Insufficient hydration can make the skin appear dull and exacerbate the appearance of dark circles.

Types

Types Of Dark Circles

• Pigmented dark circles (Brown in color): These dark circles may occur due to excess production of melanin and uneven distribution of pigment in the skin.
• Vascular dark circles: They appear as Blue, Pink, or Purple discoloration accompanied by puffiness. This type is caused by the visibility of veins due to thinning facial skin, reduced blood flow, and fluid retention.
• Mixed dark circles: These dark circles exhibit a combination of pigmentation, structural, and vascular characteristics.
• Structural dark circles: These dark circles are shadows formed by skin laxity, loss of fat under the skin, and the presence of eye bags.