Effective removal of dark circles under the eyes

The first look in the mirror in the morning can be frightening. Deep, dark circles under the eyes make many people look older, tired or even ill. However, there are many causes of dark circles under the eyes.

What causes dark circles under the eyes?

Stress and lack of sleep may be the most common reasons, but genetic factors can also be the cause. We would like to introduce you to some treatment options in this article.

A widespread but little-known phenomenon: allergies can also cause dark circles under the eyes. The reason for this is the release of histamine, which dilates the blood vessels under the eyes and can lead to puffiness and dark shadows. Another reason for dark circles under the eyes can be insufficient oxygen supply to the blood vessels, caused by factors such as stress, lack of sleep, nicotine consumption or prolonged screen time. Blood with a low oxygen content appears darker. Therefore, these blood vessels are more visible under the skin. Last but not least, the natural age-related breakdown of tissue also leads to a loss of volume under the eyes, which in turn can cause dark shadows.

The treatment options for dark circles under the eyes are as varied as their causes. A loss of volume can be offset with hyaluronic acid-based fillers. The correct technique and the right preparation are crucial for good results. The treatment should only be performed by experienced doctors, as improper application can lead to undesirable swelling or bluish discolouration, known as the Tyndall effect. We will gladly advise and treat you.

Using lasers and threads to remove dark circles under the eyes

There are various treatment options for bluish shadows under the eyes caused by small veins showing through the skin. One example is the eMax laser, which works by combining bipolar radio frequency and light energy at different wavelengths. By using laser light in the wavelength range of 570 to 950 nm combined with radio waves, these bluish vessels can be reduced after a few sessions, making the skin under the eyes appear less translucent – for a vibrant and more alert look.

Another gentle option is polydioxanone (PDO) threads, which are carefully inserted under the delicate skin around the eyes using very fine needles. The thread lift usually leaves nerves and blood vessels untouched. While slight swelling usually subsides within a few days, some patients may experience temporary bruising. The threads tighten the skin by stimulating collagen production. They also produce a lightening effect on dark circles under the eyes.

If the dark circles under the eyes are actually caused by an allergic reaction, an allergy test can provide information and identify the potential triggers. Antihistamines in the form of allergy tablets can then be used to alleviate the symptoms.

Phenol peel against dark circles under the eyes

Phenol peeling is currently experiencing a renaissance in the treatment of dark pigmentation and photodamaged skin in the lower eyelid area. It is considered to be the deepest chemical peel. The phenol peel penetrates deep into the bottom layer of the dermis, the reticular dermis. It not only lightens the pigment cells in the epidermis, but also produces new elastic and collagen fibres in the connective tissue. This leads to significant lightening of dark circles under the eyes and rejuvenates the sensitive skin area. Even deeper wrinkles become smoother thanks to this intensive peeling treatment.

The actual peeling session is preceded by a four-week pre-treatment at home with ointments containing tretinoin and hydroquinone. In the practice, a mixture of phenol and croton oil tailored to the skin type and structure is then applied with a cotton swab. The treatment is painful. Therefore, it is carried out under twilight anaesthesia, during which the patient remains conscious but does not feel any pain. After the phenol cocktail has been applied, the skin quickly turns white and is covered with a waterproof and airtight tape bandage for 24 hours. After the bandage is removed the next day, the skin will be oozing, and it will look very swollen and reddened. The swelling usually subsides after a few days and scabs form, which fall off after 10 to 14 days. The underlying skin is delicate, soft, rosy and significantly lighter in colour, but also very sensitive. You will only be able to socialise again after around two weeks and may need to use make-up to cover up. You should also consistently avoid the sun for three months and apply a high sun protection factor (50+) to the treated area every day to protect the skin.

Contact us

Are you interested in having the dark circles under your eyes treated? Why not schedule a no-obligation consultation with one of our experienced doctors? We look forward to meeting you.

Frequently asked questions about dark circles under the eyes

What causes dark circles under the eyes?

The main causes of dark circles under the eyes are genetics, age, stress, lack of sleep, allergies and lifestyle factors such as smoking or alcohol consumption.

Can dark circles under the eyes be a sign of health problems?

In some cases, dark circles under the eyes can indicate health problems, such as anaemia or dehydration, but most of the time they are harmless and more of a cosmetic issue.

Are dark circles under the eyes genetic?

Yes, the tendency to have dark circles under the eyes can be genetic, especially in people with fair skin where blood vessels may show through the skin.

Is it possible to remove dark circles permanently?

While some treatments such as laser therapy or fillers can provide long-lasting results, the permanence of the results depends on various factors such as lifestyle and skin type.

Can sleeping habits affect dark circles under the eyes?

Yes, inadequate or poor sleep can contribute to the development or worsening of dark circles under the eyes.

Does diet play a role in the development of dark circles under the eyes?

A balanced diet, rich in vitamins and minerals, can help promote skin health and reduce dark circles under the eyes.