Common Concerns: Dark Circles

About Dark Circles
Dark under-eye circles are a common concern that can affect individuals of all ages and skin types. They often appear as shadows or discoloration beneath the eyes and can be caused by a variety of factors. While often associated with tiredness or lack of sleep, they may also result from ageing, genetics, dehydration, or hyperpigmentation in the area. Although dark circles are usually harmless, they can make the face appear tired or aged. Sometimes, a good night’s sleep is enough to reduce their appearance, but if your dark circles tend to linger, come and talk to us about your treatment options!

Signs of Dark Circles
Dark circles under the eyes can result from a combination of factors, including pigmentation, volume loss, and skin changes. Identifying the common signs can help you understand what may be contributing to their appearance.
- Discolouration – The skin under the eyes appears darker than the surrounding area, often in shades of blue, purple, brown, or black depending on skin tone.
- Shadowing or Hollowness – A sunken appearance or tear troughs can create shadows that make the area look darker.
- Puffiness or Swelling – Fluid retention from lack of sleep or allergies can cause puffiness, which casts shadows under the eyes.
- Thin or Translucent Skin – Thinner skin can make underlying blood vessels more visible, contributing to a darker look.

Causes of Dark Circles
Dark under-eye circles can be caused by a range of factors.
Lack of sleep can dilate blood vessels and cause fluid retention, making the under-eye area appear darker and puffier. Genetics and skin structure also play a role, some people naturally have thinner skin or more visible blood vessels, especially those with higher melanin levels. Dehydration can cause the skin to look dull and sunken, further emphasizing dark circles.
Additionally, lifestyle factors such as smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, and poor diet can impair circulation and skin health, making dark circles more noticeable. Understanding these causes is key to choosing the right treatment and prevention strategies.
Our Treatments for Dark Circles

Using the advanced Observ Skin Analysis technology, we can get to know your skin on a deeper level, identify your underlying concerns and let’s create a treatment and skincare plan for your best skin yet!

One of the only skin treatments that can be performed safely on the undereye area. MesoInfus™ Microneedling will help to boost collagen, increase blood circulation, lymphatic drainage & reduce pigmentation, helping to improve the overall tone & texture of the under-eye area.

Dermal fillers are a popular and effective treatment for improving the appearance of under-eye circles, especially those caused by hollowness or volume loss. They work by adding volume to the hollowed area & plumping the skin. The results of dermal fillers can typically last between 9 months to 1 year.
Dark Circles FAQs
No, there are different types:
- Pigmented dark circles – Caused by excess melanin.
- Vascular dark circles – Caused by visible blood vessels under thin skin.
- Structural/hollow dark circles – Caused by fat and collagen loss.
No, but eye creams with ingredients like caffeine, retinol, vitamin C, and peptides can help improve their appearance. Concealers can temporarily cover dark circles but do not address the root cause.
Yes, UV rays can increase melanin production, making pigmentation more noticeable. Wearing sunscreen and sunglasses can help prevent this.
Yes, not drinking enough water can make the skin look dull and sunken. Iron deficiency (anemia) can also contribute to a tired, darkened under-eye appearance.
Yes, not drinking enough water can make the skin look dull and sunken. Iron deficiency (anemia) can also contribute to a tired, darkened under-eye appearance.
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