Dark, puffy under eye circles are a common cosmetic problem that affects patients of any age. But the problem tends to worsen as patients age. In this blog post, we discuss the causes, prevention, and treatment of under eye circles.
Causes of Under Eye Circles
The following are some common causes of under eye circles:
- Aging
- Dehydration
- Malnutrition
- Sleep deprivation
- Smoking
- Sun exposure
- Alcohol consumption
- Genetics
Prevention of Under Eye Circles
Patients should maintain a good skin care regimen to prevent the formation of under eye circles:
- Moisturize: Moisturizing daily (and nightly) can be very effective in treating under eye circles. During the day a moisturizer with an SPF should be used to reduce hyperpigmentation.
- Skin care ingredients: Look for creams or serums that contain alpha hydroxy acids, such as glycolic acid, hyaluronic acid, lactic acid, and retinol (Vitamin A). These ingredients contribute to cell turnover and can reduce wrinkling if bags are a part of the problem. The production of collagen is vital to skin's firmness and elasticity, so anything that contains vitamin C is usually worth a look. Salicylic acid and other beta hydroxyl acids can be helpful as well.
- Caffeine in skin care products: In recent years, caffeine has been used in skin care products because it constricts blood vessels and stimulates circulation, which prevents puffiness and swelling.
- Hydration: Staying hydrated is important. Dehydration can make dark under eye circles more prominent.
- Sodium intake: If puffiness is the issue, it is best to reduce salt intake as much as possible. Salt prompts the body to retain excess fluids.
- Rest: Rest is also vital to the prevention and reduction of under eye circles. Sleep not only balances chemicals in the brain that prevent stress, but also redistributes bodily fluids.
- Exercise: Exercise is equally important to improving circulation. Any sort of regular physical activity is encouraged. The exercise should be vigorous enough that you sweat. Do not over exert yourself. Take adequate breaks for water and stretching.
- Pollutants: Avoid pollutants such as cigarette smoke as much as possible.
- Diet: Maintain a balanced diet. Avoid sugars as much as possible, as they degrade collagen.
- Stress: Stress management is just as important. Stress raises blood pressure and physically ages people. Using techniques like deep breathing and meditation, everyday problems can be more easily managed.
Treatment of Under Eye Circles
The following professional treatment options effectively reduce the appearance of dark under eye circles.
Blepharoplasty
If loose skin or puffiness is a major problem, surgery may be required to improve the appearance of the eyes. During lower eyelid surgery, the surgeon can create an incision along the lash line to access the underlying fat. The fat can then be redistributed to reduce puffiness. The surgeon can also remove a small portion of skin around the outer edge of the lower eyelid; when stitched back together, this tightens the skin to produce a smoother appearance. This corrects the laxity of the skin and its superficial appearance. Candidates for this procedure must be in reasonably good health and of a stable weight.
Dermal Fillers
Patients seeking an alternative to surgery can undergo dermal fillers injections. Soft tissue fillers such as Restylane® or Juvederm® can plump up the area and fill in under eye circles. This technique can also reduce the appearance of loose skin by adding more volume to the lower lid area. With dermal filler injections, the whole face can appear more youthful and rested.
Contact Dr. Paul Pin's practice to learn more about treatments for under eye circles.