Hyperpigmentation

The causes of under eye circles can be as diversified as the cure. The remedy should not and cannot be determined nor corrected without knowing the actual cause. The most important part of this discussion is the diagnosis. 

Cause #1 Weakened Lower Lid Muscle

By far, the most common cause of our dark circles are caused by fat pads protruding through a weakened lower lid muscle. This creates a puffiness or “bags” under the eyes, which in turn can also cause a shadowing making you look tired, unwell, and much older.

To date, there are NO cream remedies. A surgical procedure called a lower lid blepharoplasty will remove excess fat and skin as well as tighten the muscle. The procedure can be performed by either making an inconspicuous incision along the lash line or by making an incision inside the lower eyelid. The results will yield a healthier, younger look.  

Cause #2 Hyperpigmentation

Some causes behind the formation of dark circles are hyperpigmentation of the lower lid skin, which can be caused by many different things such as heredity, aging, stress, lack of sleep, and illness. If the skin is actually hyperpigmented, I recommend my patients use a very light amount of a skin lightening crème. Crème products that contain licorice extract are usually the most effective when combined with a transporting agent such as glycolic acid. Our Hydro Light Plus-10 contains the four most effective ingredients today with the power of glycolic acid. The 10% unbuffered glycolic acid enables licorice extract, salicylic acid, resorcinol, and lactic acid to do their jobs. Without a transporter, the ingredients are lost.

The delicate lower lid skin should always be treated gently using the crème sparingly. Because each individual responds differently to the treatment, the user should be in complete control of how much and how often the crème should be used. The range can be from twice a day to just 3 times a week. Always use just a pea-sized amount.