Dark Circles Under the Eyes: Causes and Treatments
Dark circles under the eyes are a common cosmetic concern that can make you look tired, older, or stressed. These dark, discolored areas beneath the lower eyelids are usually harmless but can be distressing for many individuals. A proper assessment and diagnosis are crucial in determining the most effective treatment for reducing their appearance.
Causes of Dark Circles Under the Eyes
Lack of Volume
- As we age, the skin under the eyes becomes thinner and loses fat and collagen. This loss of volume causes the skin to become more translucent, making blood vessels more visible and contributing to the shadowy or hollow appearance associated with dark circles.
- Treatment: Dermal fillers and bio stimulators can be used to restore volume to the under-eye area. This helps elevate the tear troughs, reducing the hollow appearance. Extreme care is required to avoid swelling, which can worsen the condition.
Veins
- Visible facial veins can cause the skin beneath the eyes to take on a blue or purple tint, giving the appearance of dark circles. This is often due to the proximity of veins to the delicate skin under the eyes.
- Treatment: Dr. Friedman treats these veins with a YAG laser, which targets blood vessels with precision, helping to minimize their visibility and improve the overall look of the under-eye area.
Pigmentation
- Dark circles can also result from excess pigmentation in the skin, which may be more pronounced in individuals with darker skin tones. This pigmentation can be triggered by sun exposure, genetics, or other factors.
- Treatment: Dr. Friedman employs a combination of treatments, including energy-based devices, bio stimulators, and prescription topical creams, to target and reduce pigmentation. These treatments work to lighten dark areas and improve the overall texture and tone of the skin under the eyes.
Personalized Treatment Plan with Dr. Friedman
At your consultation, Dr. Friedman will conduct a thorough assessment to determine the underlying cause of your dark circles. Based on this diagnosis, he will craft a tailored treatment plan designed to address your specific concerns and provide optimal results.
While it may be difficult to completely eliminate dark circles, a combination of in-office procedures and home care can significantly reduce their appearance. Some effective treatments may include:
- Dermal Fillers: To restore volume and smooth out the under-eye area.
- YAG Laser: To target and reduce the appearance of visible veins.
- Pigmentation Treatment: Using energy-based devices and topical treatments to lighten dark areas.
Dr. Friedman’s advanced techniques aim to not only reduce dark circles but also enhance the overall appearance and youthfulness of the eye area.
