Dark Circles Under Eyes: Causes, Remedies & When to Seek Help

By Dr. Rajan Gupta in Dermatology & Cosmetology

Mar 22, 2025

Most of us have woken up with dark circles under our eyes at some point. These shadowy under-eye patches can make you look tired or stressed, even when you feel fine. The good news is that dark circles are usually more of a cosmetic concern than a medical problem. In this article, we’ll chat about why they happen, how you can reduce them with simple remedies, what products are out there in India, and when it might be time to see a professional (hint: places like Paras Hospital have great dermatology care). Let’s dive in!

What Exactly Are Dark Circles?

“Dark circles” refer to the darker discoloration under the eyes that contrasts with your normal skin tone. Depending on your skin, they can look blue, purple, brown, or black. The skin under our eyes is very thin and delicate, so the blood vessels underneath can show through and create a shadowy effect. Often, people link dark circles with fatigue or aging – those dreaded “tired eyes” or “panda eyes.” While they’re typically harmless, many of us seek a brighter, fresher look because under-eye circles can make us appear older or more fatigued than we really are.

It’s worth noting that anyone can get dark circles, but they’re especially common in certain groups. For example, they tend to appear more in people with darker skin tones (like many Indians), due to higher melanin and pigmentation around the eye area. They also become more common with age. Now, let’s explore the many causes of dark circles.

Common Causes of Dark Circles

Dark circles are usually caused by a combination of factors, not just lack of sleep. Here are some of the most common causes:

Lack of Sleep and Fatigue: Probably the first culprit we think of. Not getting enough quality sleep can make your skin look pale and dull, allowing blood vessels under your eyes to show through more. Fluid can also pool under the eyes from poor sleep, causing puffiness that casts shadows. Ever notice how an all-nighter can give you “bags” and circles the next day? That’s why.
Aging and Thinning Skin: One of the most common causes of persistent dark circles is the natural aging process. As we age, we lose collagen and fat padding under the eyes, and our skin becomes thinner and less elastic. This makes the area underneath look darker because the blood vessels become more visible. Aging can also lead to hollow under-eye tear troughs that create shadows and make circles look more pronounced.
Genetics: Check if your parents or grandparents have dark circles – it might just run in the family. Studies suggest dark under-eye circles often have a genetic component. You might inherit traits like thinner under-eye skin or a tendency for more pigmentation. If dark circles showed up even in childhood or teenage years, genetics could be a reason.
Hyperpigmentation (Melanin Overproduction): Many Indians experience brownish under-eye circles due to periorbital hyperpigmentation – basically, extra pigment in the skin around the eyes. This can be driven by sun exposure (UV rays trigger melanin production), hormonal changes, or inflammation. Conditions like melasma or post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation are also known to darken the eye area, especially in deeper skin tones. If your circles are more brown in color, pigmentation is likely involved.
Sun Exposure: Living in sunny climates (hello, India!) means lots of sun, which can worsen under-eye circles. Excess UV exposure prompts your body to produce more melanin, potentially darkening the skin under the eyes. Also, sun can thin the skin over time and break down collagen. Always squinting in bright light can even contribute to fine lines or hollows that shadow your eyes.
Allergies and Eye Rubbing: If you have allergic rhinitis (hay fever) or dust allergies, you might notice “allergic shiners” – dark, bruise-like circles caused by congestion. Allergies release histamines that dilate blood vessels and cause swelling under the eyes. They also make your eyes itchy, and frequent rubbing or scratching of the eyes can break delicate blood vessels or cause inflammation, leading to darker coloration. So, allergies + rubbing = recipe for raccoon eyes.
Eye Strain: In today’s world, we all spend long hours on screens. Staring at your computer, phone, or TV for too long can strain your eyes, enlarging the blood vessels around them. This can result in darker-looking skin under the eyes. If you’ve been binge-watching or working late on a screen, that could be contributing to your under-eye shadows.
Dehydration: Not drinking enough water? Your under-eyes might show it. When the body is dehydrated, the skin can look dull and the eyes can appear sunken, making dark circles more obvious. The thin under-eye skin may cling closer to the underlying bone when you’re dried out, accentuating that dark appearance.
Poor Diet and Vitamin Deficiencies: An unbalanced diet low in vital nutrients can play a part. For instance, iron deficiency anemia is linked with dark circles – one study found about 50% of people with chronic dark circles had anemia, and their circles improved after treating the iron deficiency. Lack of vitamins like Vitamin K or B12 (common in some vegetarian diets) can also cause discoloration and poor blood circulation under the eyes. If your skin is looking extra pale and shadowed, low iron or other nutrients might be a factor.
Lifestyle Factors (Smoking, Alcohol, Stress): Our daily habits show up on our face. Smoking ages and thins the skin (and can cause blood vessel issues), often making under-eye darkness worse. Excess alcohol can dehydrate you and lead to circulation problems, giving you that tired, raccoon-eyed look. And let’s not forget stress – high stress can disrupt sleep and throw hormones off balance, indirectly contributing to those pesky circles. Chronic stress might also worsen skin inflammation or habits like rubbing your eyes.

As you can see, dark circles usually aren’t due to just one thing. Often it’s a mix – say, a genetic tendency plus a few nights of bad sleep and some allergy flare-ups. The upside is that many of these factors are in our control. Next, we’ll look at home remedies and lifestyle tips to brighten up those under-eyes.

Home Remedies and Lifestyle Tips to Reduce Dark Circles

You don’t need to rush to a clinic to tackle dark circles – a lot can be done with simple remedies at home. Here are some tried-and-true tips (which are generally safe and inexpensive):

Applying cool slices of cucumber on the eyes is a classic home remedy to refresh tired under-eyes. Cucumbers are high in water and vitamin C, which help hydrate and nourish the skin. Chilled cucumber slices act as a cold compress, constricting blood vessels and reducing swelling, which can lighten the appearance of dark circles temporarily. You can also use cold potato slices or even a chilled spoon – anything cool can help shrink puffy vessels under the eyes.

Get Enough (Quality) Sleep: It sounds obvious, but it’s vital. Aim for at least 7–9 hours of sleep nightly to give your body time to repair and rejuvenate your skin. When you’re well-rested, you’re less likely to have that dull, pale look that makes blood vessels show through. Also, try sleeping on your back with your head slightly elevated on an extra pillow. This prevents fluid from pooling under your eyes overnight, so you wake up with less puffiness and shadowing. Consistency is key – keep a regular sleep schedule so your body clock stays in sync.
Cold Compress or Ice: As mentioned above, cold therapy is a quick fix for dark circles, especially when due to dilated blood vessels or puffiness. Gently press a cold washcloth, a couple of ice cubes wrapped in cloth, or even chilled tea bags on your closed eyes for a few minutes. The cold causes the vessels to tighten, which can reduce the dark tint and any under-eye bags. Many people in India use cold rose water pads or chilled slices of raw potato as well – these can have a soothing anti-inflammatory effect.
Tea Bags for Eye Mask: Don’t toss those used tea bags! Cool them in the fridge and place them over your eyes for 10–15 minutes. Tea (especially green or black tea) contains caffeine and antioxidants, which boost circulation and may shrink under-eye tissues. The result? Brighter-looking eyes, as the tea constricts blood vessels and reduces fluid buildup. It’s an age-old trick to combat both dark circles and eye puffiness.
Use Sunscreen and Sunglasses: Prevention is better than cure, and sun protection is crucial. Apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen (SPF 30 or higher) on your face daily – including the under-eye area (just be gentle and avoid getting it in your eyes). UV damage not only darkens pigmentation but also thins the skin over time. Wearing UV-protective sunglasses when you go out in the sun will further shield the delicate skin around your eyes. This can prevent existing dark circles from getting worse and stop new ones from forming due to sun exposure.
Manage Your Allergies: If allergies are causing your dark circles (“allergic shiners”), addressing the allergies will help the most. Over-the-counter antihistamines or prescribed allergy meds can relieve nasal congestion and eye itchiness, so you’re less inclined to rub your eyes. This can fade those dark circles over a few weeks. Also, consider using a saline nasal rinse to reduce sinus congestion. If you suspect an allergy (to dust, pollen, etc.) is behind your under-eye circles, talk to a doctor about a proper management plan. Your eyes will thank you!
Stay Hydrated and Eat a Balanced Diet: Drinking plenty of water throughout the day keeps your skin plump and healthy, which can lessen the sunken look under the eyes. Aim for 8–10 glasses a day, more if it’s hot. Diet-wise, ensure you’re getting enough iron and vitamins. For example, iron-rich foods (leafy greens, legumes, lean meats) can help if you have anemia-related circles. Vitamins K, C, E, and B12 are all important for skin health and circulation. Load up on fruits, vegetables, nuts, and lean protein – your skin will reflect the better nutrition. (Grandma’s tip of eating soaked almonds daily isn’t a bad idea; almonds are high in vitamin E which is great for skin.)
Use a Gentle Eye Cream or Natural Oils: Keeping the under-eye area moisturized can make it appear smoother and healthier. There are many over-the-counter eye creams available that target dark circles – more on those in the next section. If you prefer natural options, you can apply a drop of almond oil or coconut oil and gently massage it in at night. These oils have antioxidants and vitamin E which may help improve skin tone over time. Even plain petroleum jelly at night can prevent moisture loss from the delicate under-eye skin. The key is gentleness: use your ring finger to tap products on (it’s the weakest finger, so you won’t tug too hard on the skin).
Try Facial Massage or Eye Exercises: Some people find relief from dark circles with facial massages or exercises that improve circulation around the eyes. During your facial or when applying a serum, gently massage in circular motions around the eye socket. This can help blood flow and lymphatic drainage, reducing that congested, bluish look. There are also cooling gel eye masks and jade rollers widely available – when chilled and used around the eyes, they can give a similar circulation boost and soothing effect. It’s a little self-care ritual that might make a visible difference (and at least feels relaxing!).
Conceal with Makeup (if you want a quick fix): While not a “remedy,” a good concealer can instantly hide dark circles on those days you need to look your best. A creamy under-eye concealer that matches your skin or has a slight peachy tint (to counteract blue tones) can work wonders in camouflaging darkness. Many Indian women and men use this trick for events or daily wear – just remember to moisturize first so the concealer doesn’t crease. It’s a temporary solution, but it can boost your confidence while you work on longer-term fixes.

Most home remedies are safe to try (just be cautious not to get things like tea or cucumber juice in your eye). Give these tips a consistent try for a few weeks and you may notice your under-eye area looking better-rested and brighter. However, what if you want to explore store-bought solutions or stronger treatments? Let’s discuss some product options next.

Over-the-Counter Products and Natural Solutions in India

Walk into any pharmacy or beauty store in India and you’ll find a variety of eye creams, gels, and serums all promising to banish dark circles. While results can vary from person to person, these products can be a helpful part of your routine. Here’s an overview of what’s out there (without plugging any specific brand):

Hydrating and Brightening Eye Creams: Many OTC eye creams focus on moisturizing the under-eye skin and subtly lightening it. Ingredients to look for include hyaluronic acid (for hydration and plumping), vitamin C (for brightening and boosting collagen), and niacinamide (to improve skin tone). Some creams also have light-diffusing particles to instantly make the area look a bit brighter. Consistent use over weeks is usually needed to see a difference – don’t expect an overnight miracle.
Caffeine and Antioxidant Serums: Products containing caffeine are very popular for dark circles and puffiness. Caffeine, often derived from coffee or green tea, helps constrict blood vessels and reduce swelling. For example, brands like mCaffeine have coffee-infused under-eye creams and hydrogel eye patches that aim to tone and refresh the under-eye area. Antioxidants like vitamin E and green tea extract are also common – they fight free radicals and may improve the health of the skin over time. These serums are usually lightweight and fast-absorbing, good for daytime use under makeup.
Vitamin K and Kojic Acid Creams: Some eye creams incorporate more specialized actives. Vitamin K is known to strengthen capillaries and reduce bleeding/bruising, which can help with the bluish tinge under eyes (some under-eye products in India advertise vitamin K for this reason). Kojic acid, a natural skin lightener from fungi, can help brighten hyperpigmentation in the under-eye area. It’s found in some creams and serums targeted at dark spots. Dermatologists note that kojic acid can be effective, though it might irritate some people’s skin in higher concentrations. If you see kojic acid in an eye cream, use it as directed and watch for any irritation.
Retinol/Peptide Eye Creams: A number of products contain retinol (a form of vitamin A) or peptides, usually marketed as “anti-aging” eye creams. These ingredients help build collagen and thicken the skin, which can make dark circles less visible over time. For instance, peptide complexes in creams (like palmitoyl peptides) aim to firm and repair the skin barrier. Retinol can be effective but also may be irritating for the delicate eye area, so these are best used sparingly (and only at night, with sunscreen during the day because retinol makes you sun-sensitive). If you have mild under-eye wrinkling or hollows along with dark circles, these could be worth a try to improve overall texture.
Ayurvedic and Natural Remedies: Given the preference for natural ingredients in India, there are also many herbal under-eye creams. These often include extracts like cucumber, aloe vera, turmeric, saffron, almond oil, and licorice. Cucumber and aloe cool and hydrate the skin, turmeric and saffron are traditional brightening agents, and licorice extract can help lighten pigmentation. For example, Mamaearth’s “Bye Bye Dark Circles” eye cream uses cucumber and peptides to soothe and lighten, and claims to reduce melanin deposition under the eyes with ingredients like daisy flower extract. While “natural” doesn’t automatically mean better, some people find these formulations gentle and comforting for daily use. They can gradually nourish the skin, but again, patience is key.

What about those fancy eye masks? You might have seen Instagram posts of people wearing gold or green under-eye gel patches. These under-eye masks (often infused with serum and caffeine) are a trendy quick fix. You stick them on for 15–20 minutes, and they can hydrate and slightly tighten the area, making your circles a bit less obvious for a few hours. They’re great before a special event or after a tiring day. Plus, they force you to sit back and relax for a moment – self-care bonus! Just remember, the effects are temporary.

Lastly, whatever product you choose, consistency and care matter. Follow instructions (most eye creams are used twice a day, morning and night). Don’t apply too much – a pea-sized amount for both eyes is enough. And always be gentle; never tug harshly on the under-eye skin. Also, manage expectations: topical products can certainly help diminish dark circles, but they might not erase them completely, especially if your circles are largely genetic or structural.

Now, if you’ve tried various creams and home hacks and still feel bothered by your dark circles, it might be time to consider professional advice. Dark circles that are very pronounced or resistant to change could need medical treatments for significant improvement. Let’s discuss when it’s wise to see a dermatologist and what treatments they can offer.

When to Seek Professional Help

Dark circles are usually not a serious issue, but you might want to see a doctor or dermatologist in certain scenarios. If you notice dark circles under just one eye or a sudden worsening over a short time, it’s a good idea to get it checked. This is to rule out any underlying condition (for example, in rare cases, a growth or injury could affect one side – though that’s uncommon). Also, if your dark circles don’t improve despite good sleep, hydration, and OTC creams, a dermatologist’s expertise can help.

Here are a few signs it’s time to consult a professional:

Persistent, Severe Circles: You feel your under-eye darkness is very pronounced and nothing you do seems to help, or it’s getting worse. A dermatologist can evaluate whether there’s something else at play – like eczema, chronic allergies, or another skin condition contributing to the darkness. They can also prescribe stronger topical treatments if needed.
Underlying Skin or Health Conditions: If you have eczema (atopic dermatitis) or periorbital dermatitis on your eyelids, this inflammation can cause darkening. Similarly, thyroid issues or other hormonal problems might reflect as under-eye changes. Treating the root condition (with your healthcare provider) could improve the dark circles. A dermatologist or general physician can run relevant tests – for example, checking your iron levels if anemia is suspected, or thyroid function tests if other symptoms suggest it.
Cosmetic Reasons: Sometimes, it simply comes down to feeling self-conscious. There’s no shame in seeking treatment for dark circles if they bother you. If you’re considering medical or cosmetic procedures to remove or reduce dark circles permanently, a dermatologist can explain the options. Modern dermatology offers several treatments, usually aimed at either pigmentation or structural issues under the eyes. We’ll outline some common treatments below.

Medical and Dermatological Treatments: After assessing your skin, a dermatologist might recommend one or a combination of these treatments:

Prescription Topical Creams: Doctors can prescribe creams that are stronger than OTC ones. For pigmentation, hydroquinone (2–4%) is a common skin-lightening agent that can lighten dark under-eye skin over a few months. Often, a retinoid (like tretinoin) is combined to boost collagen and speed up cell turnover. These creams have to be used carefully to avoid irritation. Another prescription ingredient is azelaic acid, which can safely reduce hyperpigmentation under the eyes over long-term use. Prescription-strength vitamin C or kojic acid lotions might also be suggested to brighten the area.
Chemical Peels: Supervised chemical peels can effectively reduce dark circles, especially if excess pigment is a major cause. Dermatologists use mild alpha-hydroxy acid peels (like glycolic or lactic acid) to exfoliate the dark top layer of skin. This can reveal fresher, lighter skin beneath. Peels also stimulate collagen remodeling. It may take a series of gentle peels for gradual improvement. There’s minimal downtime with light peels, though you might have a day or two of redness. Stronger peels exist but are usually avoided under the eyes due to sensitivity.
Laser Therapy: Laser treatments are a more high-tech option. Non-invasive lasers, such as pulsed dye lasers or diode lasers, can target blood vessels or pigment under the eyes to reduce darkness. Other laser or light therapies (like IPL – Intense Pulsed Light) might be used to boost collagen and tighten the skin, helping with those shadow-casting hollows. Laser resurfacing can also smooth fine lines which contribute to the appearance of circles. It’s important that a skilled dermatologist or plastic surgeon performs these, as the eye area must be handled very carefully.
Dermal Fillers: If your dark circles are largely due to hollows (tear troughs) or fat loss under the eyes, the problem is more about structure than skin color. In these cases, injectable fillers can work wonders. Doctors use hyaluronic acid gel fillers to plump up the under-eye groove, which can conceal the blood vessels and melanin that are causing the darkness. By filling the sunken areas, the shadow is reduced and the transition from lower eyelid to cheek is smoother. Filler results are quick (within a week) and can last 6-12 months, but they should only be done by an experienced injector. Brands like Stylage or Restylane are often used specifically for under-eyes to achieve a natural look.
PRP Injections: PRP stands for Platelet-Rich Plasma – basically, a concentrated solution of your own blood’s growth factors. Some dermatologists inject PRP into the under-eye area to improve skin quality and color over time. It’s thought to stimulate collagen and blood vessel repair. This treatment is still gaining popularity; it’s relatively safe since it’s your own plasma, but the results can vary.
Microneedling and RF: Newer treatments include microneedling (with or without radiofrequency) around the eyes, sometimes combined with vitamin serums or PRP. These create tiny punctures that stimulate skin renewal and can help with fine lines and pigmentation. They’re minimally invasive and have short downtime (a day or two of mild swelling usually).
Surgery (Blepharoplasty): In extreme cases, or when eyelid bags are also an issue, an oculoplastic surgeon might perform a lower eyelid surgery. This is called blepharoplasty, where excess fat causing bulges is removed or repositioned and sometimes extra skin is trimmed. This can eliminate the shadow-causing bulge/hollow and smooth the under-eye area permanently. Surgery is usually the last resort and is typically considered in older patients or those with significant under-eye bags, rather than someone who only has mild dark circles. It’s a more invasive route with longer recovery, but can produce dramatic results.

If all these options sound overwhelming, don’t worry – a good dermatologist will guide you to what’s appropriate for your situation. Often, a combination approach works best (for example, a light peel plus some filler, or prescription creams plus laser for a few sessions). Also keep in mind, medical treatments for dark circles are usually considered cosmetic; they’re about improving appearance, so they’re not covered by insurance and only worth pursuing if it really matters to you.

Paras Hospitals (a well-known healthcare chain in India) has dedicated dermatology and cosmetology departments that deal with these exact concerns. They offer treatments for pigmentation issues – from topical lightening agents to peels and laser therapy – all under expert supervision. Seeking out a reputed hospital like Paras or a certified dermatologist ensures you get safe and evidence-based care for your skin. Dermatologists there can customize a plan to tackle your dark circles, while checking for any underlying health factors.

Brightening Up – Final Thoughts

Dealing with dark circles under the eyes can be frustrating because there’s no one-size-fits-all solution. The causes can range from simple lifestyle habits to genetics or health conditions, so it often takes a bit of detective work (and patience) to see improvement. The key takeaways? Take care of your health and skin – get good sleep, eat well, manage allergies, and protect your skin from the sun. These steps alone will make a difference in most cases. Augment your routine with some gentle home remedies like cold compresses or cucumbers, and consider an eye cream with ingredients that target your specific issue (be it pigmentation, puffiness, or skin thinness).

Most importantly, remember that having dark circles is extremely common – you’re not alone in this, and it’s not a reflection of poor health or anything “wrong” with you. In many Indian families, it’s almost a hereditary trait and part of our natural features. There’s nothing wrong with embracing a little shadow under the eyes. But if your dark circles bother you, you now have a toolkit of options – from DIY fixes to dermatology treatments – to help you look and feel your best. Here’s to brighter eyes and a confident you!