Dark circles are one of the most common complaints Dr. Maha Fathy hears, and one of the most misunderstood, because they have several different causes and each needs a different fix. Here is a clear guide from Dr. Maha Fathy, Consultant of Dermatology, Aesthetics and Laser at DermaSpot Clinic.
The short answer
Dark circles can come from pigmentation, thin skin showing the blood vessels beneath, hollowing that casts a shadow, or simply tiredness and genetics. Because the causes differ, so do the treatments, which is why the same eye cream works wonders for one person and nothing for another. Identifying the cause is the essential first step.
The main causes
- Pigmentation: extra melanin under the eyes, common in Middle-Eastern skin.
- Vascular: thin skin showing bluish vessels underneath.
- Structural: hollowing or a tear-trough that casts a shadow.
- Lifestyle: lack of sleep, dehydration and genetics.
What actually helps
Treatment is matched to the cause: targeted topicals and sun protection for pigmentation, careful under-eye filler for hollowing that casts a shadow, and skin-quality treatments for thin skin, alongside good sleep and hydration. Because the under-eye area is delicate, this is somewhere to be treated by a dermatologist rather than experimenting.
Dr. Maha Fathy’s take: “People buy cream after cream for dark circles without knowing the cause. Once we identify why yours are there, the right treatment is usually straightforward.”
Frequently asked questions
Can dark circles be cured?
Many improve significantly once the cause is correctly identified and treated.
Does filler help dark circles?
It helps when the cause is hollowing that casts a shadow, in suitable candidates.
Do eye creams work?
They help some causes, such as pigmentation, but not all.
Is under-eye treatment safe?
Yes, when done by a professional; the area is delicate and needs care.
Key takeaways
- Dark circles have several different causes.
- Treatment must match the cause.
- Creams help some causes but not all.
- The delicate under-eye area is best treated by a dermatologist.
Tired of dark circles? Book an assessment with Dr. Maha Fathy at DermaSpot Clinic. See our services or contact us.
This article is for general education and is not a substitute for a medical consultation.