Dentist and Skin Care Blog from Boston's Area Leading Dental Office

Dark circles under your eyes can really drag you down, in terms of both looks and spirits. There are a number of different ways you can combat this problem, however, depending on which of the many factors have caused it.

If your circles are temporary and relatively infrequent, the simplest solution is to take better care of yourself. These types of circles are the result of inflammation and enlargement of the blood vessels under the fine, thin skin around your eyes. Allergies, lack of sleep, stress, and nutritional deficiencies are common causes of this type of shadow, so they can often be quickly improved by getting enough rest, eating a healthful diet, drinking plenty of water, and avoiding irritants such as cigarette smoke.

If only it were always that easy! Unfortunately, dark circles often result from issues that are more difficult to deal with. If, for example, you have deep-set eyes, your bone structure may be creating shadows. Concealment is your best option in this case. A common mistake when using concealing makeup is to choose a shade that’s lighter than your skin tone. This looks artificial, and may make your circles even more noticeable. Instead, choose a shade that’s slightly warmer than your skin tone, with a yellow undertone to fight the blueness of the dark shadows. Use concealer sparingly, and blend it in thoroughly by gently tapping—not rubbing. Use eyeliner and mascara on your upper lid only.

Serious dark circles are often the result of genetics. Makeup can do only so much to hide this type of hyperpigmentation, and should be combined with more aggressive means of improving the condition. Keeping the area hydrated is important, but because the delicate skin in that area has such small pores, over-hydration may cause more problems than it solves. Your best approach is to put yourself into the capable hands of a professional. At Smile and Skin, we offer several spa packages that include collagen eye treatments. These treatments deliver the right amount of hydration, plump the area to combat sunken shadows, fight fine lines and generally refresh and sooth the skin.  

Skin care products containing vitamin A can also help fight excessive pigmentation. If you have questions about your dark circles, consult our board-certified aesthetician, Stacey Powell, to determine the proper vitamin A-strength for your skin, since vitamin A creates irritation in too-strong dosages.