Some causes of dark circles under the eyes may includeTrusted Source:

• lack of sleep or poor sleeping habits
• allergies, including hay fever
• hyperpigmentation, which happens when the body produces more melanin
• reduced levels of fatty tissue around the eyes
• thinning skin under the eyes
• iron deficiency anemia
• overexposure to sunlight
• frequent rubbing of the eyes
• smoking
• thyroid conditions
• dehydration
• dermatitis
• eye drop treatment for glaucoma, including bimatoprost and latanoprost

There are some risk factors for dark circles under the eyes, such as:

• Nonwhite heritage: Dark circles are more common in people with darker skin tones, and they affect people of color more than white people. This risk factor is thought to be due to changes in pigmentation.
• Older age: Loss of fatty tissue and thinning of the skin around the eyes are part of the aging process. These changes can make dark circles appear more defined in older adults. A tear trough is the hollow under the eyes, which can cause dark circles and is related to aging.
• Genetics: Dark circles can be hereditary. If someone has dark circles under their eyes, they may also appear in some other family members.

People may be able to reduce the appearance of dark circles under the eyes with simple home remedies.

Although some of these remedies are not scientifically proven, they may be worth trying as many are inexpensive and produce no side effects.

More sleep

People can make sure they are getting enough quality sleep each night to help reduce or prevent dark circles. Raising the head up on extra pillows may help reduce dark circles and swelling around the eyes.

Cucumber

Applying cucumber slices to the eyes may soothe tired eyes and reduce swelling, according to older 2013 research. The high water and vitamin C content of cucumber may help to nourish and moisturize the skin. Cucumber also contains silicaTrusted Source, which is essential for healthy tissue.

Tea bags

Tea bags may help lessen dark circles and puffiness under the eyes. Caffeine has antioxidant properties and stimulates blood circulationTrusted Source around the eyes.

A person can boil two tea bags in water before letting them cool, then resting them on each eye. Putting boiled tea bags in the fridge first may have a cooling effect for the eyes. People can use black, green, or herbal tea bags.

Facials

Poor circulation around the eyes can cause the appearance of dark circles. Gentle massage around the eye area through a facial can help to improve circulation.

A person can also try applying a cold compress to the eyes, which may help reduce the appearance of dark circles.

Antioxidant skincare products

Face creams and under-the-eye products that contain antioxidants may help to reduce the appearance of dark circles. Vitamins E and C are antioxidants that may help treat dark circles.

Makeup

Although makeup will not alter dark circles, some people may use an under-the-eye concealer for cosmetic purposes.

If home remedies do not get rid of dark circles under the eyes, a person should speak with their doctor or dermatologist for advice on medical treatment, which may include the options below.

Topical creams

Bleaching creams may help reduce hyperpigmentation. These might include:

• hydroquinone
• tretinoin
• a combination of both

People may need to use hydroquinone for at least 3 monthsTrusted Source to see an effect.

Kojic acid

Anecdotal reports suggest that kojic acid is effective in treating dark circles. Kojic acid is a natural product that comes from two species of fungi.

However, people should note that side effects of kojic acid can include contact dermatitis and skin redness.

Azelaic acid

People may use azelaic acid to treat hyperpigmentation under the eyes, and it is safe to use over long periods.

Topical vitamin C

An older small study from 2009 investigated the effects of 10%Trusted Source vitamin C lotion in the treatment of dark circles, over 6 months. The lotion was effective in lightening darkness under the eyes.

Chemical peels

Chemical peels, using alpha hydroxy acids, such as glycolic acid, can help to lighten hyperpigmentation under the eyes.

People may also use chemical peels in combination with topical creams for better effect.

Lasers

Laser therapy can be an effective treatment for dark circles. Less invasive laser procedures, such as pulsed dye or diode lasers, may lessen the risk of scarring or other potential side effects.

Fillers

If thinning of the skin or loss of fatty tissue is causing dark circles under the eyes, dermal fillers may be a potential option. People can have injections of platelet rich plasma or hyaluronic acid gel into the area under the eye.

Surgery

A type of surgery that doctors call blepharoplasty can get rid of dark circles that are due to deposits of fat or extra skin around the eye area.

The area under the eye is extremely delicate, and people should always discuss possible side effects. They must also ensure that only a certified dermatologist carries out any medical procedures for this area.

If people are taking certain drugs, such as bimatoprost for glaucoma, dark circles will disappear after they stop using the medication.

People may help preventTrusted Source the appearance of dark circles by addressing lifestyle factors, such as:

• getting enough sleep
• reducing stress
• wearing ultraviolet (UV) protection sunglasses and wearing sunscreen around the eyes
• quitting smoking
• reducing alcohol consumption

Dark circles can affect anyone of any age and ethnicity for a variety of reasons. Genetics, aging, and lifestyle factors all play a part in the development of dark circles. People may also find that allergies, nutrient deficiencies, or underlying health conditions can cause dark circles.

Home remedies may help treat dark circles. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle with quality sleep, stress management, and proper hydration may all help prevent dark circles.

If people have concerns about the appearance of dark circles, they should speak with their doctor or dermatologist for treatment options and to check for any underlying health conditions.