Dark circles under the eyes can be categorized into several types, primarily based on their appearance and underlying cause. Understanding the type of dark circles you have is crucial for selecting the most effective treatment.
Types of Dark Circles:
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Pigmented Dark Circles: These dark circles appear brown or black. The discoloration is due to increased melanin production (hyperpigmentation) in the skin under the eyes. They often remain visible even when the skin is stretched.
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Vascular Dark Circles: These dark circles appear blue, pink, or purple. They are caused by poor blood circulation in the area under the eyes, making the underlying blood vessels more prominent.
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Indented Dark Circles: These dark circles are characterized by a sunken or hollow appearance under the eyes. This is often due to a loss of volume or fat in the orbital bone area, creating a shadow effect. The darkness is not a change in pigmentation but a shadow caused by the underlying bone structure.
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Shadowing Dark Circles: These are caused by the structural anatomy of the eye area. Fat pads beneath the eyes create shadows, particularly with lighting conditions. Stretching the skin doesn't change their appearance, unlike pigmented dark circles.
Several sources mention three main types of dark circles. However, a more comprehensive understanding includes considering shadowing as a distinct category. The underlying cause influences the appropriate treatment strategy. For example, hyperpigmentation responds well to topical treatments like vitamin C serum, while vascular dark circles might benefit from improving circulation with skincare products targeting blood flow. Indented dark circles may require filler injections to restore volume.
