Written & reviewed by Dr Tan Ying Zhou (Dr YZ Tan) | Last reviewed: September 2026
Quick Answer:
Dark eye circles are one of the most common under-eye concerns patients raise at Mizu Aesthetic Clinic in Singapore, and they are also one of the most misunderstood. Dr YZ Tan assesses each patient to determine what is actually causing the darkness, because the right treatment depends entirely on the underlying cause. Dark circles can result from pigmentation, thin skin revealing underlying blood vessels, volume loss that casts shadows, or a combination of these. This guide explains the common causes of dark eye circles and the treatment and lifestyle options that can help improve their appearance. |
You’ve probably lost count of how many times you’ve reassured people that you’re not tired. Your mom might worry you’re stressed out, while your colleagues keep asking if everything is okay. The reality? You’re perfectly fine—except for those persistent dark eye circles that seem impossible to shake.
Dark eye circles, those bluish-black or purplish shadows under your eyes, can be a frustrating cosmetic concern. While they’re not always indicative of poor health or fatigue, they can make you look tired and older than you are. So, how can you effectively reduce their appearance? What causes them in the first place? And when should you consider professional treatments like under-eye fillers or skin boosters?
Let’s dive into the causes, treatments, and lifestyle changes that can help you say goodbye to those stubborn dark circles.
Dark eye circles, known as periorbital hyperpigmentation (POH), appear as shades of brown, blue, black, or purple under the eyes. They can make you look fatigued, older, and even unwell. While anyone can develop dark circles, they are more prevalent in older individuals, those with a genetic predisposition, and people with darker skin tones.
Here are some of the most common causes:
As we age, the skin around our eyes becomes thinner, losing collagen and fat that usually cushion blood vessels. This thinning makes blood vessels more visible, which can give the area under your eyes a darker appearance. Additionally, loose skin and volume loss can cast shadows, accentuating the darkness.
If dark eye circles run in your family, you might be more prone to developing them. In fact, a 2014 study revealed that 63% of participants with dark eye circles had a strong family history of POH.
Genetic factors like skin tone and the structure of your face can contribute to the appearance of dark eye circles. For example, deep-set eyes can create a shadow that exacerbates the look of dark circles.
Anaemia, often due to iron deficiency, reduces the amount of oxygen delivered to your body’s tissues, including those around your eyes. This lack of oxygen can result in a pale complexion and dark circles. A 2014 study found that approximately half of the participants with dark circles also had iron-deficiency anaemia.
Allergies and dry eyes can also contribute to dark circles. When you have an allergic reaction, your body releases histamines, which can cause itching and redness. Rubbing your eyes can worsen the situation, leading to swelling and darkening of the skin around your eyes.
Both lack of sleep and oversleeping can cause your skin to appear dull, making the dark tissues and blood vessels beneath more noticeable. Additionally, fluid retention from poor sleep can lead to puffiness and shadows under the eyes.
Smoking and alcohol can dehydrate your skin, making dark circles more prominent. Alcohol can cause the blood vessels under your eyes to dilate, making dark circles more noticeable.
It can also disrupt sleep, which exacerbates the issue. The toxins in cigarettes and the dehydration caused by alcohol can break down collagen, leading to thinner skin and more visible blood vessels.
While many over-the-counter remedies and home treatments are circulating the internet, professional treatments might be the way to go for more persistent dark circles.
Here are some options available in Singapore:
Under-eye fillers can be an effective way to restore lost volume, which reduces the appearance of dark eye circles and lightens the discolouration under the eyes. Fillers can smooth out the area, making dark circles less visible and providing a more youthful appearance. Under-eye fillers usually last around 9 to 12 months depending on the individual.
Laser treatments can help to lighten dark eye circles if pigments are the cause of discolouration. The laser energy targets and breaks up pigments and blood vessels and reduces the appearance of dark eye circles.
Skin boosters like the Rejuran I and Plinest Fast are created specifically to target concerns in the under-eye region. These skin boosters contain polynucleotides, a regenerative ingredient known for its ability to promote collagen production, repair damaged skin cells, and improve skin hydration and elasticity.
Making certain lifestyle changes can also help reduce the appearance of dark circles. Here are some tips:
Lack of sleep can exacerbate dark eye circles. Aim for 7 to 9 hours of sleep each night to allow your skin to rejuvenate. A consistent sleep schedule and a relaxing bedtime routine can work wonders for your skin.
Regular exercise improves circulation while meditation can reduce stress, both of which boost your general well-being and contribute to healthier, brighter skin.
Your skin is a reflection of your overall health. What you eat can directly impact your skin’s appearance, so be mindful of your dietary choices.
A balanced diet rich in vitamins and antioxidants can result in healthier skin and reduce the appearance of dark circles. Consider incorporating foods high in vitamin C (like oranges and strawberries), vitamin K (found in leafy greens) and iron (present in lean meats and legumes) to support skin regeneration and circulation.
Sun exposure can worsen dark circles due to hyperpigmentation. Protect your skin by wearing sunscreen, sunglasses, and wide-brimmed hats.
While dark circles are usually harmless, they can sometimes indicate underlying health issues. If you notice significant swelling, dark circles under only one eye, or other concerning symptoms, consult a healthcare provider for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan.
Dr YZ Tan, Medical Director of Mizu Aesthetic, notes:
“The mistake I see most often with dark circles is treating them as a single problem when they are usually several. Some of the darkness is pigment, some is thin skin showing the vessels beneath, and some is shadow from volume loss in the tear trough. If you treat the wrong component, for example placing filler when the real issue is pigmentation, you will not get a good result and you may even make the area look worse. That is why the assessment matters so much. Once we know what is actually causing the darkness, the treatment choice becomes straightforward.”
Dark circles can be caused by factors like genetics, ageing, allergies, poor sleep, dehydration, and underlying health conditions.
To prevent dark eye circles from worsening, protect your skin from UV damage, get enough sleep, stay hydrated, and manage stress levels. Avoid smoking and limit screen time.
While dark eye circles are usually not serious, they can sometimes indicate underlying health issues. If you notice significant changes such as swelling or changes in vision, consult a healthcare professional.
Dark circles can be a cosmetic concern for many, but they are usually not a sign of a serious health issue. Whether caused by genetics, lifestyle factors, or ageing, various treatments and lifestyle adjustments can help reduce their appearance. For those seeking professional help, treatments like under-eye fillers, skin boosters, and lasers offer effective solutions.
If you’re ready to tackle your dark circles, consult with our experts at Mizu. Our team can assess your needs and recommend a personalised treatment plan. Contact us today to get started on your journey to brighter, healthier-looking eyes.
The information provided in this blog post is for educational and informational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional or dermatologist before starting any new skincare routine or treatment, especially if you have existing skin conditions or concerns. Results may vary from person to person, and individual needs may require different approaches.
Dr Tan Ying Zhou, known as Dr YZ Tan, is the founder and Medical Director of Mizu Aesthetic Clinic.
His journey into aesthetics began with a medical degree from St. George’s, University of London, followed by an internship in Dermatology at the National Taiwan University Hospital.
Some of his favourite aesthetic procedures include nose augmentation and anti-ageing solutions, and he also serves as a trainer for emerging aesthetic doctors.
His philosophy revolves around personalised treatments tailored to each individual’s ageing concerns, aiming to transform the ageing process gracefully into a pleasant journey towards confidence and wellness.
