Under-eye circles—often called dark circles—are areas of darker pigmentation or shadowing beneath the eyes. They can make the face look tired or aged, but the causes are more varied than most people realize.
Common Causes
- Thin skin & visible blood vessels – The skin under the eyes is some of the thinnest on the body. As collagen naturally decreases with age, blood vessels beneath become more visible, giving a bluish or purplish tint.
- Pigmentation – Increased melanin production in this area can cause brownish under-eye circles, more common in certain skin tones.
- Poor circulation or fluid retention – When blood flow slows or fluid builds up (often from allergies, lack of sleep, or dehydration), the under-eye area can look darker or puffier.
- Genetics – Some people are naturally predisposed to hollows or pigmentation under the eyes.
- Lifestyle factors – Fatigue, stress, smoking, alcohol, and poor diet can worsen the appearance of under-eye circles.
- Aging & volume loss – As fat pads shrink with age, hollows form, casting shadows that look like dark circles.
What’s Happening Beneath the Surface
The “dark” appearance is often due to a combination of shadowing from hollows, visible blood vessels, and pigmentation. It’s not always a result of poor sleep, even though that can make them more noticeable.
Spa & Skincare Approach
- Improve circulation with gentle massage, cool compresses, or eye-specific treatments
- Strengthen skin with collagen-boosting ingredients like peptides or retinol (low strength near the eye)
- Brighten pigmentation with vitamin C, niacinamide, or licorice root extract
- Hydrate and protect with lightweight eye creams and SPF to prevent worsening pigmentation
