What can I do about dark circles under my eyes?

Of all of the skin conditions that we look to improve, reducing dark circles is probably the most frustrating. Why?  There isn't really a cure because it is closely related to genetics...but that doesn't mean there aren't some great tips that can offer improvement.

First, let's go over what these dark circles actually are: most commonly the skin under the eye is extra thin.  This can be from loss of collagen and "leaky vessels"  from aging or those nagging genetics we just can't get away from if we tried. Some people also have deep inset eyes that causes a shadow, making the under eye area appear darker.  Individuals can also develop brown spots under the eyes from sun damage (or more melanin activity)...and once again genetics.  Interestingly, lack of sleep doesn't actually cause dark circles, but it does make our skin look more dull so the darkness can be more apparent when we didn't get a good amount of ZZZs.

Now, enough about what is causing this frustrating skin condition, let's look into solutions!  Intuitively, the best solutions we have to combat some of the issues noted above.

1) Get 7-8 hours of sleep a night.
Yes this can be difficult, but there is no doubt that research has shown sleep does offer skin benefits. A lack of sleep makes our skin pale and dull...when you are tired, you look tired!

2) Give your skin the Vitamin C it needs.
Vitamin C can help the leaky vessels and aid in capillary strengthening. It is a vasoconstrictor (making our vessels less noticeable) and reduce the accumulation of blood under our eyes. You can find it in SkinCeuticals  A.G.E. Eye Complex, which is why this is a product that I highly recommend.  Vitamin C can also, in time, fade sun spots.  

3) Use skin-thickening agents to help rebuild collagen.
Skin-thickening ingredients, such as peptides, can help keep the skin underneath our eyes thicker and support tissue renewal which can help it thicken.  This will make the underlying blood vessels less noticeable.  SkinCeuticals  Eye Cream has eye specific peptides that support our skin's natural repair, making it another science-based product to help with pesky under eye darkness.

4) Massage eye cream in circular motions.
This technique can stimulate movement of the pooling blood flow that can contribute to darkness.

5) Get a good concealer.
Thank you, Captain Obvious! But really, it's the quickest way. I prefer Bare Minerals Concealer - it's a light powder that does the trick but doesn't goop up and accentuate any under eye lines you may have.

6) Stay hydrated.
As for most skin issues, adequate hydration is key!

In summary, unfortunately a common problem many of us have is tough to fix due to genetic causes. With that being said, there are great products and tips that can help you manage and diminish those under eye circles. As always, we offer free consultations for your skin care needs.

--Jean Gustafson, MD
    bāre medispa