Pronounced dark circles under eyes can mean many things as the causes of under eye circles vary widely based on heredity, health and lifestyle. A person's under eye appearance and health can improve by understanding potential causes and treatments of dark circles.

Heredity

Genetics can influence skin pigmentation making it darker beneath the eyes. In addition, certain types of facial structures enhance shadowing near the nose or under and/or around the eyes.

Causes

Pale skin emphasizes dark circles. Lack of sleep for anyone of any age or pregnancy, hormone fluctuations and menses in women can make the skin pale. In addition, skin thinning caused by aging can make blood vessels appear more pronounced.

Additional Causes

Certain medical conditions such as iron-deficiency anemia, eczema, sinus congestion/allergies, malabsorption disorders and some cancers darken or emphasize under eye circles. Dark circles can also be a side effect of medications or smoking.

Prevention/Solution

Removal of dark circles isn't entirely possible, but changes in lifestyle, diet and healthcare---cessation of smoking, better eating habits, vitamin intake, congestion and/or allergy treatments, treatment of health conditions and regular sleep cycles---can reduce the appearance of circles.

Surgical Cosmetic Solutions

Many dermatologists offer laser treatment of damaged or pronounced blood vessels under the eye and dark skin pigmentation as well as collagen injections to thicken the skin.

Non-Surgical Cosmetic Solution

Neutralizing make-up concealers, in combination with skin-toned (or lighter) concealer and/or foundation, can make dark circles disappear by "neutralizing" dark circle color. For example, green neutralizes red and yellow purple or dark skin pigmentation.

Source:

Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research

Penn State Hershey

DarkCircles.net