Dark circles, those smudges of darker skin beneath our eyes, are technically known as periorbital hyperpigmentation. Hyperpigmentation occurs when the skin has an excess of pigment, causing it to appear darker than your normal skin tone. The hyperpigmented patch appears as a darkened area, specifically around the eyes.

Dark circles under the eyes are a common complaint that most people despise because they give the appearance of tiredness, even when we aren’t. While not everyone experiences this issue, it is a prevalent concern. For some individuals, dark circles are hereditary, a genetic trait passed down from parents. These dark circles can persist permanently or become more prominent when feeling fatigued due to lack of sleep. On the other hand, some fortunate individuals do not have to deal with dark circles at all.

Dark circles can be caused by various factors, and tiredness is one of them. It’s not uncommon for people to associate these two things. When you lack sleep, your skin tone may become pale, which makes the blood vessels beneath your lower eyelids more visible.

While completely eliminating dark circles is not possible, there are numerous options available that can help minimise their severity and visibility. One effective approach is through proper skincare routines.

For a quick fix, try using a good concealer. Concealer is a popular cosmetic that can effectively hide under-eye darkness and discolouration. To achieve the best results, select a shade that matches your skin tone (don’t go lighter thinking it will counteract dark circles, as it will look unnatural). Opt for a creamy consistency to prevent creasing in the fine lines under your eyes. Look for concealers with light-reflecting particles to blur any lines and hollows, instantly refreshing your eyes with a flattering touch of light.

To minimise dark circles under your eyes, it’s crucial to follow a healthy lifestyle. This means incorporating nutritious eating habits, ensuring adequate sleep, and engaging in regular exercise. By adopting these practices, you’ll optimise your chances of achieving a refreshed and vibrant appearance.

When it comes to treating dark circles, finding the right approach depends on the type of dark circles you have. If your dark circles are due to patches of darker pigmentation, the first step is to incorporate active skincare products into your routine. Look for clinically proven options that can effectively reduce pigmentation in the skin.

One recommended solution is to use creams containing cysteamine, an ingredient that helps soften excess pigmentation. Dermatologists may also prescribe creams with 4% hydroquinone, which is considered the gold-standard treatment for reducing pigmentation. Additionally, there are over-the-counter products available, such as retinol-based creams, that can even out pigmentation. However, caution should be exercised when using retinol around the eyes. Begin with a product specifically formulated for the eye area and gradually increase usage.

Here are some options worth trying:

Antioxidant serums: These serums are known for strengthening the skin.
Skincare products containing retinol: Retinol encourages collagen growth.
Eye creams specially designed to combat dark circles, such as Olay’s Illuminating Eye Cream for Dark Circles.
Eye creams infused with niacinamide, an ingredient that helps lighten pigmentation, like CeraVe Eye Repair Cream.

Give these suggestions a go and see which works best for you in your quest to tackle dark circles.

When it comes to hiding dark circles with makeup, finding a great concealer is key. However, it’s important to note that an expensive concealer is not a requirement. The crucial factors are selecting a concealer that seamlessly blends with your skin tone and provides enough pigment to effectively cover those dark shadows.

To achieve the desired coverage, begin by applying tinted moisturiser or foundation as a base. This will offer some camouflage for the dark circles, allowing you to evaluate the additional coverage needed. Dab a few spots of concealer onto the areas with dark shadows, and gently blend the product into the skin, extending it to the inner corner of the eye to create a brighter, more open appearance. You can use your fingertip, a blending sponge, or a makeup brush according to your preference. The goal is to achieve a seamless and fresh look. Some individuals prefer to “set” the concealer with a dusting of loose powder, but be cautious as excessive powder application may lead to a cakey appearance.

Remember, the ultimate aim is to beautifully conceal those dark circles and enhance your natural features with a flawless finish.