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“Doctor, can you improve my dark eye circle that makes me look tired and old?”
In the 21st century, the relentless pace and busyness of modern lifestyle have become
ubiquitous, leaving an indelible mark on our well-being, and notably, on our physical
appearance. One of the visible consequences is the prevalence of under-eye dark circle.
The navigation through hectic schedules, meeting the demands of work, social commitments, and personal responsibilities, all these constant strains take a toll on our sleep
pattern. Furthermore, the late-night work sessions, coupled with the omnipresence of digital
screens and the allure of around-the-clock entertainment often lead to disrupted sleep and
insufficient rest.
Dark circles are often associated with tiredness, sleep deprivation, and fatigue. However,
several identified possible causes include genetic or constitutional pigmentation due to
melanin deposition, atopy or allergies, chronic sinusitis, poor nutrition, dermal melanocytosis, post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, blood stasis, or dilatation of the superficial microvasculature, as well as thin or translucent lower eyelid skin overlying the orbicularis oculi muscle. Other contributing factors may include a prominent tear trough or a shadow effect due to bone structure and the contour of the eye socket. Consequently, the presence of under-eye dark circles is a common aesthetic concern worldwide, prompting the use of various aesthetic and surgical treatments to ameliorate this condition.
The Link Between Sleep Deprivation and Under-Eye Dark Circle
The connection between lack of sleep and the development of dark circles under the eyes is
complex and involves several physiological processes.
Blood vessel dilation
Sleep deprivation can lead to dilation of blood vessels. When you do not get adequate
sleep, your body releases more of the stress hormone cortisol. Elevated cortisol levels can cause blood vessels to expand, making the skin under the eyes appear darker and more visible.
Reduced circulation
Lack of sleep can also result in reduced blood circulation, especially around the eye. Poor circulation contributes to the pooling of deoxygenated blood, which can create a bluish or dark tint in the delicate skin under the eyes.
Fluid Retention
Insufficient sleep can lead to fluid retention, causing puffiness and swelling. This swelling can cast shadows, making the under-eye area appear darker.
Skin Aging
Chronic sleep deprivation accelerates the aging process of the skin. Collagen is a protein responsible for maintaining skin elasticity. Inadequate sleep hinders collagen production, leading to the thinning of the already thin skin, making the underlying blood vessels more visible. These contribute to the appearance of dark eye circles.
Melatonin imbalance
Sleep regulates the production of melatonin, a hormone that influences sleep-wake cycles. Disruption in melatonin levels can affect skin pigmentation, potentially contributing to the darkening of the under-eye area.
How Does Eye Anatomy Affect Under-Eye Circle?
In youth, the intersection between the lower eyelid and the cheek seamlessly blends,
forming a naturally convex area. However, with the onset of aging, the delicate skin
undergoes thinning, soft tissue experiences breakdown, and the descent of fat pads
contributes to infraorbital hollowness, creating a sunken appearance. As individuals enter
their mid-30s and early 40s, bony changes become apparent; the eye sockets expand, while
the mid-face, particularly the maxillary bone responsible for the projection of the anterior
cheek, begins to collapse. The loss of under-eye volume results in a noticeable dark shadow
cast on the lower eyelids, giving rise to the tear trough deformity and creating the illusion of a deepening dark circle.
The Top Solutions in Our Clinic
There is no one ‘perfect’ treatment for under-eye dark circles, normally a combination of
treatments over a long period of time is needed. Addressing under-eye dark circles involves
a multifaceted approach that takes into consideration both the skin hyperpigmentation and
anatomical changes with aging leading to infraorbital hollowness.
PRF contains a higher concentration of growth factors which helps rejuvenate the periorbital skin. Furthermore, the growth factors stimulate collagen formation that can improve skin elasticity and thickness, potentially reducing the appearance of dark circles.
HA fillers have become a treatment of choice in many settings to address under-eye
contour irregularities that can result in dark shading. It provides volumization to the
infraorbital hollowness and the filling effect creates a smoothen transition between the lower eyelid and cheek.
Pico laser is not only used to provide entire face rejuvenation including skin toning, pore
size reduction and skin pigment treatment, but it is also an effective means of treating under-eye dark circles that are primarily due to skin hyperpigmentary changes.
#4. Polynucleotide (PN) Injection
Both Plinest Fast and Rejuran-I are made up of polynucleotide, a DNA fragment extracted from Trout Fish and Salmon Fish respectively. Both PN used to reduce dark eye circles, revives tired looking eyes and reduces superficial wrinkle around eye region.
The integration of these treatments provides a comprehensive solution, addressing not only
pigment-related aspects but also targeting the structural changes contributing to under-eye
dark circles. Personalized treatment plans, tailored to the unique characteristics of each
patient, are crucial for achieving optimal and natural-looking results. Don't
hesitate—schedule a consultation with us today!
