Dark circles under the eyes (periorbital hyperpigmentation) affect both men and women of various ages, giving the face a tired appearance. Understanding the causes behind dark circles helps us address them effectively.

Here are the 3 most common causes of dark circles and the ideal treatments to correct this aesthetic issue:

Cause 1: Pigmentation

Sun exposure can cause pigmentation in the lower eyelid skin, appearing as brown spots or an overall darkening of the area.

Solution: Microdermabrasion with microcrystals removes dead skin cells, reducing surface pigmentation and restoring skin tone. This process also stimulates collagen and elastin production, improving skin quality.

Cause 2: Fat Atrophy

Reduced fat tissue in the eyelid area—due to heredity or aging—makes the underlying bone structures more prominent, giving the eyes a “hollow” appearance.

Solution: Fillers, especially the use of advanced hyaluronic acid injected with a special cannula, offer the fastest non-invasive way to address dark circles, providing smooth and natural results without causing swelling or bruising.

In more severe cases, autologous fat transfer (using the patient’s own fat, processed with stem cells) provides both a natural and long-lasting aesthetic result. Alternatively, bio nutri lift—an advanced form of mesotherapy combining hyaluronic acid and NCTF (a powerful compound with 55 rejuvenating elements)—not only fights dark circles by renewing the skin but also offers holistic facial rejuvenation.

Cause 3: Eyelid Aging

Over time, the orbicularis oculi muscle weakens and sags, dragging down the eyelid skin and contributing to the appearance of dark circles.

Solution: Lower blepharoplasty is the recommended approach when dark circles are accompanied by pronounced eye bags or very loose eyelid skin. The composite blepharoplasty technique is the most advanced option for harmoniously and naturally reshaping the lower eyelid and cheek area. It involves:

Cheek lift

Redistribution (not removal) of fat

Suspension of the relaxed orbicularis muscle to the temporal fascia (eliminating the groove separating the lower eyelid from the cheek)

Canthopexy (supporting the outer corner) to maintain the almond eye shape

Minimal skin removal

An experienced facial rejuvenation plastic surgeon can precisely determine the technique that will eliminate dark circles, restoring youthfulness to your face.

How Can We Contribute to the Best Possible Aesthetic Outcome?

Adopting lifestyle habits such as daily sunscreen use, hydration, a diet rich in vitamin C and amino acids that boost collagen production, and avoiding salt can help fight and prevent dark circles.