How to Get Rid of Dark Circles Under Eyes

Dark circles under the eyes are one of the most common cosmetic concerns among adults aged 25 to 55. Whether you’re waking up to tired eyes or dealing with long-term shadows that don’t seem to fade, you’re not alone — and you’re not stuck with them either. At SpaMedica, we offer advanced, evidence-based solutions to help restore a more rested, vibrant, and youthful look.

Dark circles refer to the discolouration, hollowing, or shadowing that appears beneath the eyes. While they’re often associated with fatigue, there are many potential causes — and just as many treatment options, depending on the underlying issue.

Common Causes of Dark Circles

• Genetics: Many people inherit thinner under-eye skin or naturally deeper tear troughs.
• Volume Loss: As we age, collagen and fat diminish, making blood vessels and bone structure more visible.
• Hyperpigmentation: Excess melanin in the under-eye area can cause brownish discolouration, especially in darker skin tones.
• Circulatory Issues: Poor circulation or fluid retention can contribute to blue or purplish tones.
• Allergies & Irritation: Rubbing the eyes due to allergies can damage skin and worsen pigmentation.
• Fatigue & Stress: Lack of sleep doesn’t always cause dark circles, but it can certainly make them more noticeable.

Before considering professional treatments, many individuals start with at-home care. While results can be modest, certain ingredients and habits may help improve appearance over time.

Skincare Ingredients That Help

Look for medical-grade eye creams or serums that include:

• Retinol: Encourages collagen production to thicken skin
• Caffeine: Reduces puffiness by constricting blood vessels
• Vitamin C: Brightens pigmentation and protects against UV damage
• Peptides: Support skin structure and resilience
• Niacinamide: Calms inflammation and strengthens the skin barrier

Natural Remedies and DIY Solutions

• Chilled tea bags (especially green tea) to soothe puffiness
• Cold compresses or ice rollers to reduce fluid buildup
• Gentle massage to stimulate circulation in the tear trough area

While these remedies may temporarily reduce swelling or discolouration, they do not correct structural issues such as volume loss or pigmentation from sun damage.

Lifestyle Adjustments

• Prioritize 7–8 hours of quality sleep
• Limit sodium intake to reduce water retention
• Stay hydrated to support skin health
• Manage allergies with appropriate treatment
• Wear sunglasses and SPF to reduce UV damage

When dark circles persist despite lifestyle changes and skincare, it’s time to explore targeted medical treatments. At SpaMedica, we offer a range of surgical and non-surgical options customized to your unique concerns.

Explore our Dark Circles Before and After Images to see real patient results.

Dermal Fillers for Volume Loss

Under-eye or tear trough fillers, typically made of hyaluronic acid, can restore lost volume, reduce hollowing, and soften the appearance of dark shadows. Results are immediate and last 6–12 months. Treatments are performed by experienced injectors using advanced safety techniques.

Laser Therapy

SpaMedica offers several laser technologies to treat pigmentation and stimulate collagen production:

• Fractional CO2 Laser: Targets both surface pigmentation and deeper skin texture
• IPL (Intense Pulsed Light): Useful for reducing vascular or brown discolouration under the eyes
• Fotofacial: Gently brightens and evens out skin tone using light-based energy

These treatments improve skin texture, reduce pigment, and strengthen the under-eye area over time.

Chemical Peels

Light chemical peels can gently resurface the delicate skin under the eyes, improving tone, texture, and pigmentation. SpaMedica uses specially formulated peels safe for use in the periocular region.

Microneedling

Microneedling stimulates collagen using ultra-fine needles to activate your skin’s natural repair response. When combined with serums or PRP, it can improve skin tone and firmness under the eyes.

Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) Therapy

Sometimes referred to as a “natural filler,” PRP uses your body’s own growth factors to rejuvenate under-eye skin. It boosts collagen production, improves circulation, and restores a healthy glow without synthetic substances.

Surgical Options

For severe under-eye bags or sagging, surgery may be the most effective and permanent solution.

• Lower Blepharoplasty (eyelid surgery): Involves removing or repositioning fat and tightening the lower eyelid. This surgical approach eliminates deep hollows and shadowing for a smoother, more youthful look.

SpaMedica’s facial surgeons specialize in eyelid rejuvenation with minimal downtime and natural-looking outcomes.

There’s no one-size-fits-all fix for dark circles. At SpaMedica, our expert team will assess your:

• Skin tone and thickness
• Degree of volume loss or pigmentation
• Lifestyle factors and goals

From there, we’ll design a treatment plan that may include one or more therapies, starting with the least invasive options and progressing if needed. You’ll also receive guidance on maintenance treatments and medical-grade skincare for lasting results.

Eye Care Routine

• Use brightening and firming eye creams with retinol or peptides
• Apply cold compresses to reduce morning puffiness
• Avoid harsh rubbing or tugging when cleansing

Protecting Your Skin from Sun Damage

• Apply SPF daily (yes, even around the eyes)
• Wear UV-blocking sunglasses
• Avoid tanning beds and overexposure

Healthy Lifestyle

• Eat a balanced diet rich in antioxidants and iron
• Reduce alcohol and caffeine intake
• Prioritize sleep and hydration

Health Conditions

If your dark circles are linked to allergies, anemia, or other systemic conditions, treating the root issue can help reduce the appearance of discolouration over time.

Dark circles can result from a combination of factors, including genetics, lifestyle, and aging. While home remedies may provide temporary relief, the most effective solutions are targeted treatments performed by medical professionals.

At SpaMedica, we offer safe, customizable procedures to help you look brighter, more refreshed, and more confident, without compromising natural results. Whether you’re seeking subtle rejuvenation or long-term correction, our team is here to help.

Can a lack of sleep cause dark circles?

Yes, fatigue can make blood vessels more visible and lead to fluid retention, both of which worsen the appearance of dark circles.

Are dark circles always a sign of a serious health issue?

Not necessarily. In most cases, they are cosmetic and linked to genetics, volume loss, or lifestyle. However, persistent discolouration may be worth discussing with a physician to rule out underlying causes.

How long do results from under-eye fillers last?

Hyaluronic acid fillers typically last between 6 and 12 months, depending on the individual’s metabolism and the product used.

Can allergies cause dark circles?

Yes. Allergic reactions often lead to rubbing, inflammation, and increased blood flow to the area, all of which can cause the under-eye skin to darken.

Is there a permanent solution for dark circles?

While no treatment guarantees permanent results, lower eyelid surgery (blepharoplasty) offers long-term correction. Other treatments may require maintenance sessions.

What is the best cream for dark circles?

The best creams typically contain retinol, caffeine, vitamin C, and peptides. However, no cream can fully correct structural causes like hollowing. Professional treatments may be needed for more noticeable results.