Many people think lack of sleep is the only cause for dark circles under the eyes. However, according to the Mayo Clinic, this is simply not true. While some medical conditions cause dark circles under the eyes, they are also a normal byproduct of aging.

Significance

Dark circles under the eyes are defined as areas of dark pigmentation, says the Mayo Clinic. They affect men and women and usually appear at some point in an adult's life.

Anemia

Dark circles under the eyes could be a sign of anemia, a deficiency of iron, according to nutritionist Jane Clarke. Luckily, supplementing iron in your diet and in vitamins can easily help resolve anemia and dark circles under the eyes. When a person has iron-deficiency anemia, the blood does not contain the proper amount of red blood cells. These cells function by delivering oxygen to the body, giving us energy and keeping the skin looking healthy.

Effects

Other health-related causes include allergies, skin conditions such as eczema or congestion that cause the veins that drain from eyes to nose turn dark. According to the Mayo Clinic, people often inherit dark circles under the eyes from their parents.

Prevention/Solution

Certain lifestyle choices contribute to the appearance of dark circles under the eyes. People who drink too much caffeine, alcohol, smoke and spend too much time in the sun are are at a greater risk for dark circles.

Age

When we age, our cells slow down the production of collagen, which makes our skin like healthy and elastic. Also, the fat in our face begins to go away. Both of these factors play a role in the development of dark circles under the eyes.

Source:

Mail Online: Why Do I Have Dark Circles Under My Eyes

Mayo Clinic; Anemia

Mayo Clinic: Dark Circles Under the Eyes