We’re all conscious of the dark bags under our eyes. And to treat them, we explore the web, try a hundred eye creams, use home remedies, only to be disappointed because we can’t get rid of them completely. Speaking facts here, dark circles can only be faded, you cannot make them disappear.
While dark circles may be because of a number of reasons, mostly genetics and poor working and lifestyle habits, in some cases, they can also be an indication of certain health issues.
This blog will discuss some of those health issues your dark circles could be indicating.
Hypothyroidism:
An underactive thyroid gland can cause several symptoms, including fatigue, weight gain, and dark circles. This happens because hypothyroidism can lead to decreased blood flow and melanin production around the eyes, causing a darkening effect.
Blood clotting disorders:
Certain blood clotting disorders can make blood vessels fragile and prone to leakage. This leakage can cause discolouration under the eyes, appearing as dark circles.
Periorbital hyperpigmentation:
This is another term for increased pigmentation (darkening) of the skin around the eyes. It can be caused by various factors, including allergies, sun exposure, and certain medications. These factors can irritate the delicate under-eye area, triggering excess melanin production and dark circles.
Liver disease:
The liver is responsible for processing waste products in the body. When the liver is struggling, these waste products can build up, causing various symptoms, including jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes) and dark circles under the eyes.
Chronic stomach disease:
Chronic stomach issues like gastritis or inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) can affect nutrient absorption. This can lead to deficiencies in iron or vitamin B12, which can contribute to dark circles by affecting the oxygen-carrying capacity of red blood cells.
Irregular menstruation:
Hormonal fluctuations associated with irregular periods or conditions like Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS) can sometimes lead to the development of dark circles. This is because hormonal changes can affect blood flow and melanin production around the eyes.
Hemoglobin issues:
Hemoglobin is a protein in red blood cells that carries oxygen throughout the body. Conditions like iron deficiency anaemia can reduce haemoglobin levels, leading to paler skin and, sometimes, the appearance of dark circles due to the increased visibility of underlying blood vessels.
Lifestyle Factors and Dark Circles:
While dark circles can sometimes point towards underlying health issues, more often than not, they’re a result of lifestyle factors. Here are some common culprits:
Lack of sleep:
This goes without saying! When you’re well-rested, the skin around your eyes appears plump and refreshed. Sleep deprivation can make the under-eye area look sunken, casting shadows and appearing dark.
Stress:
Chronic stress wreaks havoc on your overall health, including the delicate skin around your eyes. Stress can exacerbate existing dark circles or even trigger them.
Dehydration:
When you’re dehydrated, your skin can lose its elasticity and appear dull. This lack of plumpness can make dark circles more noticeable.
Eye strain:
Staring at screens for prolonged periods can strain your eyes and contribute to dark circles.
Sun exposure:
Excessive sun exposure can lead to hyperpigmentation around the eyes, causing dark circles.
Don’t panic!
Finding dark circles under your eyes doesn’t necessarily mean there’s a serious health concern. Often, addressing your lifestyle habits can significantly improve your appearance. Getting adequate sleep, managing stress, staying hydrated, and limiting screen time can all make a difference. Additionally, incorporating a gentle under-eye cream with ingredients like vitamin C or hyaluronic acid can help brighten and hydrate the area.
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