Yes! Dermatologists not only treat many kinds of skin conditions ranging from acne to pre-cancerous skin lesions but they can also apply a variety of non-invasive procedures designed to eliminate dark circles under the eyes quickly and painlessly. For most people, over-the-counter creams or “folk” remedies may provide some relief from dark circles but it is usually temporary and insufficient. In addition, using concealer or liquid foundation make-up to hide dark circles takes time to apply and often appears unnatural because of the amount needed to diminish the dark shadows. Fortunately, dermatologists offer professional strength topical creams, laser therapy and dermal fillers that can dramatically improve the appearance of eyes suffering from “dark circle syndrome”.
Why Do Some People Have Dark Circles Under Their Eyes?
When dark circles under the eyes are not caused by lack of sleep, anemia, liver disease or temporary illnesses like colds or the flu, a condition called periorbital hyperpigmentation may be the reason behind chronic dark circles. Thought to be hereditary in most cases, periorbital hyperpigmentation indicates excessive melanin production around the eyes that remains visible because of the thinness of the skin surrounding the eyes. Aging will also produce noticeable dark circles under the eyes due to the skin losing collagen and becoming translucent. As we age, we also tend to lose volume around the eyes, which leads to exposure of the orbital bone and the development of hollows under and next to the eyes. In fact, the eye area is one of the body’s most delicate areas and will begin showing signs of aging in people as young as 30, with dark circles, under-eye bagginess and even crow’s feet appearing before any other areas of the face start suffering age-related skin issues.
Can a Disease be the Cause of Dark Circles under the Eyes?
If you notice dark circles suddenly appearing under your eyes even though you are getting enough sleep and are suffering from no other medical conditions of which you are aware, a dermatologist will probably recommend that you receive a physical examination from your doctor before deciding on a treatment option. Severe dehydration, malnutrition, liver disease and hypothyroidism represent a few health issues that may be causing dark circles and hollows under the eyes where they previously did not exist. By making changes in your diet, supplementing your diet with vitamins or adjusting your thyroid functioning with proper medication, your dark circles may disappear on their own.
Treatment of Dark Circles with Prescription Topicals
Occasionally, dermatologists will sometimes treat mild cases of dark circles under the eyes with Retin-A, an acid that works to reduce dark circles by blocking certain chemical reactions occurring during formation of melanocytes, or the cells responsible for skin pigmentation. Hydroquinone is another bleaching agent sometimes prescribed by dermatologists for skin discolorations such as freckles, age spots and dark circles that actually destroys melanocytes and lightens the affected area within four to six weeks of initially applying the agent.
Soft Tissue Fillers
Juvederm and Restylane, two popular and effective hyaluronic acid gels, can also eliminate dark circles under the eyes by filling out hollows, stimulating collagen production and improving overall health of the delicate skin surrounding the eyes. Restylane differs from other dermal fillers because of its ability to adhere to water molecules in the skin and produce subtle, natural-looking changes regarding under-eye hollowness.
With so many options available that can reduce the appearance of dark circles under the eyes, you may want to discuss your particular case with a Mayoral Dermatology specialist. When you come in for a consultation, one of our specialists will examine the skin under your eyes and ask questions concerning your general health. From there, you and your dermatologist can then make a decision regarding the type of treatment you prefer.
