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Under Eye Circles: what causes them?
 The
skin under the eyes
is the thinnest on the body. The many blood vessels in this area can show
through the delicate
skin, contributing to the appearance of dark under-eye circles, especially
if the vessels become dilated.
Dark under-eye circles begin in the capillaries, the tiny blood vessels that web
the delicate skin
around the eyes. The capillaries are so small that red blood cells sometimes
have to line up, single file, to get through. Frequently, red blood cells get
lost and wander into the surrounding skin. This isn't a problem - it happens all
the time - and your body has a mechanism to mop up these escapees. Enzymes in
your body break down the red blood cells, including their hemoglobin (the
molecule that gives them their distinctive red color). When hemoglobin is broken
down, its remaining components have a dark blue-black color. Just like a bruise.
So your dark under-eye circles are actually caused by leaky capillaries. It's
quite possible that capillaries all over your body are leaking small amounts of
blood all the time.
But the reason dark under-eye circles are so apparent is this: the skin
around the eyes is some of the thinnest, most delicate skin of your entire body.
The capillaries are much closer to the surface of the skin there. Many people's
skin is not only thinner around the eyes, but also more translucent. The
combination of capillaries near the skin's surface and translucent skin makes
this discoloration much more apparent. And that's why you have those dark
under-eye circles staring back at you in the mirror.
Another, common cause is nasal congestion. When your nose is congested, veins
that usually drain from your eyes into your nose become widened (dilated) and
darker.
 Another
cause of under eye circles is eyelid swelling during sleep. When you lie down,
gravity can cause fluid to collect in your lower eyelids. This swelling may
create the appearance of shadows below your eyes. In addition, dark circles can
result from chronic skin conditions, such as atopic
eczema. Dark circles can also run in families.
Getting Rid of Under Eye Circles
Over-the-counter products may help diminish
dark circles
under eyes. Look for
skin creams
that contain vitamin C or K, alpha hydroxy acid and kinetin. Treatment for
chronic and severe undereye circles is directed at the underlying cause, if
known, and may include bleaching agents and laser therapy. Lasers can thicken
the skin by increasing collagen production, so you are less likely to see veins.
If you desire to hide the under eye circles, use a proper concealer. Test out
the best colors at a department store counter Choose concealer that's a shade
lighter than your foundation. And if your circles are very dark, go 2 shades
lighter. Try not to use too pale a concealer as this will actually work the
opposite way and emphasise the area. However, if the circles are of a more gray
tone, then you may find a pink toned concealer works better in disguising them.
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