Understanding Under-Eye Darkness: Causes Treatments and Personalized Solutions

Under-eye darkness is a common concern that affects many people, especially those with skin of color. It often causes frustration because it is misunderstood and treated incorrectly. Dark circles under the eyes are rarely caused by pigment alone in darker skin tones. To achieve effective and lasting results, it is essential to understand the root causes of under-eye darkness and tailor treatments accordingly.

Under-eye area showing common causes of darkness

Common Causes of Under-Eye Darkness

Hyperpigmentation

Excess melanin production can cause brown or gray discoloration under the eyes. This often happens due to inflammation, allergies, frequent rubbing, or sun exposure. In skin of color, hyperpigmentation is a frequent contributor to dark circles but is rarely the only cause.

Best treatments for hyperpigmentation:

• Aerolase laser therapy, which targets pigment without damaging surrounding skin

• Skincare products that regulate melanin production, such as those containing niacinamide or vitamin C

• Gentle exfoliation to remove dead skin cells and brighten the area

  
  

Avoid aggressive chemical peels, as they can cause rebound darkening, especially in darker skin tones.

Volume Loss (Tear Trough Hollowing)

Loss of fat beneath the eyes creates shadows that make the area appear darker. This is more noticeable in deeper skin tones because the contrast between the hollow and surrounding skin is stronger.

Best treatments for volume loss:

• Platelet-rich fibrin (PRF) or PRF EZ Gel injections to restore volume naturally

• Collagen-stimulating treatments that improve skin thickness and elasticity

• Carefully selected injectable fillers when appropriate, administered by experienced professionals

  
  

These treatments help fill the hollow and reduce the shadow effect, brightening the under-eye area.

Thin Skin and Visible Blood Vessels

The skin under the eyes is naturally thin. When it becomes even thinner, blood vessels underneath become more visible, creating a bluish or purplish hue. This is a common cause of under-eye darkness that is often overlooked.

Best treatments for thin skin and visible vessels:

• Microchanneling to stimulate skin repair and thickness

• PRF treatments to promote collagen growth

• Laser therapies that improve skin tone and reduce vessel visibility

  
  

These approaches strengthen the skin and reduce the appearance of blood vessels.

Lifestyle and Inflammation

Factors like allergies, poor sleep, dehydration, and fluid retention can worsen under-eye darkness. Inflammation caused by these triggers increases blood flow and swelling, making dark circles more prominent.

Best treatments for lifestyle-related causes:

• Identifying and managing allergies or other triggers

• Supporting lymphatic drainage to reduce fluid buildup

• Using anti-inflammatory skincare ingredients such as aloe vera or chamomile

  
  

Addressing these underlying factors can significantly improve the appearance of dark circles.

Why One-Size-Fits-All Treatments Fail

Many over-the-counter eye creams and aggressive treatments do not address the specific cause of under-eye darkness. In skin of color, these treatments can sometimes worsen discoloration or cause irritation. Successful treatment requires a conservative and personalized approach that considers pigment, anatomy, skin thickness, and lifestyle.

Our Approach at Mantra Aesthetic Studio

At Mantra Aesthetic Studio, we start by carefully evaluating each patient’s unique situation. We look at pigment levels, the anatomy of the under-eye area, skin thickness, and lifestyle factors before recommending a treatment plan. Most patients benefit from a combination of therapies rather than a single solution.

Our approach includes:

• Laser therapy to target pigmentation safely

• Collagen stimulation to improve skin quality and thickness

• Targeted skincare to support skin health and reduce inflammation

  
  

This combination creates natural, balanced, and long-lasting results.

Practical Tips for Managing Under-Eye Darkness

• Avoid rubbing or scratching the under-eye area to prevent inflammation and pigment changes

• Use sunscreen daily to protect delicate under-eye skin from UV damage

• Maintain good hydration and sleep habits to reduce fluid retention and inflammation

• Consult a skincare professional for personalized treatment rather than relying solely on generic products