WHAT ARE DARK CIRCLES UNDER THE EYES, AND WHAT TYPES ARE THERE?
Dark circles under the eyes are more than just a sign of not getting enough sleep: They can be genetic, exacerbated by lifestyle factors, or simply a natural part of your skin’s structure. In this article, you’ll learn everything about dark circles and their causes—and how you can improve their appearance with the right tips.
WHAT EXACTLY ARE DARK CIRCLES UNDER THE EYES?
Why do people get dark circles under their eyes? The answer is somewhat complex. Medically speaking, the periorbital region—also known as the area around the eyes—encompasses the area surrounding the eye socket. It has several distinctive features: The skin here is extremely thin—in some places only 0.2 mm—and thus up to five times thinner than on the cheeks. There is hardly any fatty tissue beneath the skin, but there is a close connection to the eye muscles. Due to increased blood flow and a sensitive nerve structure, this region is particularly susceptible to stimuli, irritation, and signs of aging. Added to this is significant mechanical stress: up to 10,000 blinks per day place additional strain on the skin.
These factors make the eye area a visible stress barometer for the skin and the body. As early as the late 20s or early 30s, the first signs of so-called periorbital aging can appear, such as fine lines, loss of elasticity, or dry skin. The causes are both intrinsic—that is, genetic, hormonally influenced, or due to age-related fat loss—and extrinsic, resulting from factors such as UV radiation, air pollution, lack of sleep, stress, or allergies. As a result of the breakdown of collagen, elastin, and fibronectin, the skin loses its firmness and structure. This manifests as tired-looking eyes, a worn-out appearance, visible under-eye bags, crow’s feet, or drooping eyebrows. Dark circles are caused by thin skin, visible blood vessels, loss of volume, or changes in pigmentation.
THESE TYPES OF DARK CIRCLES EXIST
Not all dark circles are the same. Their appearance can stem from a wide variety of causes, ranging from translucent blood vessels and pigment deposits to loss of volume or swelling. An overview of the main types: Dark under-eye circles (bluish/purple): The skin of the eyelids is extremely thin and semi-transparent. As a result, the subcutaneous network of blood vessels and the eye muscle (orbicularis oculi muscle) stand out more visually; such under-eye circles are particularly noticeable if you have a pale complexion. Waste products from the blood, such as hemosiderin, can also further intensify the dark color, resulting in blue-looking dark circles. Pigmented dark circles (brownish/gray): Hyperpigmentation around the eyes is caused by UV exposure, inflammation (e.g., due to atopic dermatitis or contact dermatitis), hormonal influences, or genetic predisposition. This leads to increased deposition of melanin—and, in some cases, hemosiderin—in the epidermis and dermis. Light-colored dark circles (shadow effects): These occur due to pallor or loss of volume in the midface, such as in the tear trough. The tear trough is a depression that extends beneath the eye along the eye contour. Bone loss and slackened, weakened supporting structures (ligaments) create visible hollows here—these cast shadows or rings under the eyes, which are more pronounced under overhead lighting, while frontal lighting can partially conceal them.Swollen dark circles (puffiness / eye bags): Fluid accumulation due to increased vascular permeability, lymphatic congestion, salt or alcohol consumption, as well as morning edema can lead to swelling under the eyes. Age-related changes or greater muscle mass exacerbate this effect. The swelling can further intensify the dark appearance—often with a purplish tint over the muscle.
Important: Some causes are genetic or structural in nature, such as bone shape, fat deposits, or ligaments. These cannot be completely corrected with cosmetics. However, the appearance of dark circles or shadows under the eyes can often be visibly improved.












