Top Dermatologist-Recommended Dark Circle Treatments

Dark circles under your eyes may appear blue, purple, brown, or black, depending on your skin color. Although they’re common and typically harmless, they can impact your confidence. Many people feel like dark circles make them appear tired or older. If you’re unhappy with the appearance of your dark circles, a variety of professional treatments and at-home remedies can help.

What causes dark circles?

Dark circles can be caused by a wide variety of factors, including:

• Genetics. Some research suggests that dark circles may run in families.

• Aging. As you age, the skin beneath your eyes becomes thinner, making the blood vessels underneath more visible.

• Lack of sleep. Not getting enough sleep may make the skin under your eyes more pale, leading to more visible blood vessels.

• Rubbing your eyes. Rubbing or scratching your eyes can cause swelling under the eyes and lead to blood vessels breaking.

• Dermatitis. Atopic dermatitis (eczema) and contact dermatitis can cause your blood vessels to dilate and become visible through the skin.

• Hyperpigmentation. Overexposure to the sun can cause your body to produce too much melanin, which is the substance that gives your skin color.

• Dehydration. Not drinking enough water may lead to your under-eye area looking dull. 

• Lifestyle factors. Certain lifestyle factors, like drinking too much alcohol or smoking, can lead to dark circles.

Typically, dark circles aren’t cause for concern. That said, if your circles get darker or start to swell, contact your dermatology provider.

What are the top treatments for dark circles?

There are a few go-to cosmetic treatments to help improve the appearance of dark circles. Your dermatology provider will recommend one of these treatments, or a combination of them, based on your unique skin and treatment goals.

Medical-grade topicals

Topical treatment options include bleaching agents such as hydroquinone and tretinoin, or depigmenting agents such as arbutin. Topical antioxidants like vitamin C, vitamin E, kojic acid, and azelaic acid may also help. Note that topical solutions typically require long-term, consistent use in order to see results.

Laser therapy

Fractional laser resurfacing can remove brownish discoloration by peeling off the pigmented layer of skin. Certain lasers can target blood vessels, minimizing blue and purple discoloration, while other lasers can minimize the appearance of dark circles by thickening the skin under the eyes. 

Chemical peels

Chemical peels work by sloughing off the top layers of skin to stimulate the skin's natural healing mechanisms and allow anti-aging treatments to penetrate more deeply. With repeat visits, chemical peels can eventually lighten the appearance of the skin and decrease signs of aging. 

Facial fillers

Under-eye fillers have emerged as a leading non-surgical solution for rejuvenating the delicate under-eye area, specifically targeting hollowness and shadowing. The most common type used is hyaluronic acid (HA)-based dermal fillers, which restore lost volume and hydrate the tissue. Popular HA fillers for the under-eye area include Juvéderm, Volbella, and Restylane.

What are the side effects of dark circle treatment?

The above treatments are generally well-tolerated and come with few to no side effects. That said, fillers can cause mild swelling or bruising, while laser treatments may lead to redness, peeling, or temporary scabbing. These effects typically resolve quickly.

Your dermatology provider will give you thorough guidance on what to expect and how to best care for your skin post-treatment.

Are there at-home remedies for dark circles?

To help supplement professional treatment, there are a number of things you can do at home to help reduce the appearance of dark circles. Dermatologist-recommended at-home remedies include:

• Prioritizing sleep. Prevent blood vessel dilation by aiming for 7-9 hours of sleep each night. 

• Staying hydrated and eating well. Drink plenty of water and eat a well-balanced, nutritious diet to support skin health.

• Using a cold compress. Applying a cold compress under your eyes can help constrict blood vessels and temporarily reduce discoloration and puffiness.

• Wearing sunscreen daily. Avoid sun-related hyperpigmentation by using broad-spectrum SPF 30+ daily.

• Avoiding eye-rubbing. Rubbing your eyes can break the blood vessels.

Dark circle treatment: The bottom line

Dark circles are a very common cosmetic concern with a range of possible causes, from genetics and aging to lifestyle habits. The good news is that both professional treatments and at-home strategies can help to effectively reduce their appearance. Because dark circles vary in cause and appearance from person to person, the most effective approach is a personalized one. Consult a licensed dermatology provider to identify what's driving your dark circles and build a treatment plan tailored to your skin and goals.