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Dark Eye Circles: Causes and Treatments

*Caption: Dark eye circles are a common cosmetic concern*

Introduction

Dark eye circles under the eyes are a common concern amongst the patients at Bay Aesthetics Clinic and Medispa. Dark eye circles affect both men and women and often make the individual look tired, fatigued and older. While dark eye circles are harmless and mainly a cosmetic issue, severe dark eye circles may affect an individual’s confidence. Many of our patients with dark eye circles seek treatment as they are tired of their friends and family constantly checking if they are unwell, stressed or sleeping poorly.

Causes of Dark Eye Circles

Ageing

As we age, the skin around the eyes can become thinner, making the blood vessels under the eyes more visible and creating the appearance of dark circles.

Sunken undereye

Facial volume loss due to ageing or rapid weight loss may lead to the undereye area looking sunken and dark from the shadowing effect

Allergies

Allergies can cause inflammation in the tissues around the eyes, leading to the appearance of dark circles.

Pigmentation

Pigmentation in the undereye area may lead to the appearance of dark circles

*Caption: Classification of dark eye circles and tear trough*

*Caption: Anatomy of the undereye region*

Types of Dark Eye Circles

An accurate diagnosis is required to formulate an effective and customised treatment plan for dark eye circles

Pigmentation deposits

Excess melanin deposited in the undereye area gives the appearance of dark eye circles. Usually, individuals have a history of sun exposure and pigmentation throughout the entire face. This is common in darker skin types, such as individuals of Indian descent.

Vascular Dark Circles

Vascular dark eye circles appear bluish or purplish and are due to visible veins or thin, translucent under-eye skin. Lack of sleep, allergies and poor circulation can make them more prominent.

Structural Dark Circles

Facial volume loss, sunken under eyes or deep tear troughs create a shadow and hollowness in the undereye area. This is often seen in patients who have undergone rapid weight loss (ie Ozempic Face) or those with low body fat levels (eg marathon runners)

Mixed-Type Dark CirclesMixed-Type Dark Circles

Many patients present with a combination of pigmentation, vascular and undereye volume loss.

*Caption: Dark eye circles due to volume loss and ageing*

*Caption: Dark eye circles due to volume loss and stress*

*Caption: Dark eye circles due to facial volume loss, allergies and poor sleep*

*Caption: Dark eye circles due to pigmentation*

Prevention Tips

While some causes of dark eye circles—like genetics or facial anatomy—can’t be changed, you can take some steps to reduce their appearance.

Use a targeted eye cream such as Skinceuticals AOX eye gel with active ingredients like vitamin C, retinol and caffeine to brighten, firm, and reduce puffiness.
Apply sunscreen daily, including around the eyes, to prevent pigmentation from worsening.
Get enough sleep—aim for 7–8 hours a night to minimise tired-looking eyes.
Stay well-hydrated and reduce salt intake to avoid fluid retention, eye bags and puffy eyes
Manage nasal allergies with antihistamines or nasal sprays to reduce vascular congestion under the eyes.

*Caption: Undereye filler is an effective treatment for dark eye circles*

Treatment Options for Dark Circles

At Bay Aesthetics Clinic, we help a large number of patients with dark eye circles with evidence-based treatments tailored to the specific type of dark circles these patients have.

Laser Treatments

For patients with pigmentation in the undereye area, we utilise the PicoSure laser to remove the pigment deposits safely and precisely, with minimal downtime. The laser treatment also rejuvenates the skin, giving it more smoothness and glow.

Injectables

Hyaluronic acid fillers restore volume in hollow areas to reduce shadows and smooth the under-eye contour. Ideal for structural dark circles from facial volume loss. Undereye and tear trough fillers give immediate results, with effects lasting for 9-12 months. For patients who are worried about filler migration and swelling, Deusaderm Collagen injections to the undereye offer natural outcomes without downtime.

Skin Tightening

For most patients, the ageing process resulted in thin, wrinkled and sagging skin, which is most apparent in the delicate undereye area. Oligio RF Eye utilises monopolar RF technology to tighten and firm the skin of the eye area, including the upper and lower eyelids.

What to Expect: Your Treatment Journey

We guide you through every step—from consultation to aftercare.

Pre-Treatment Consultation

A detailed assessment of your under-eye area helps us determine your dark circle type. We’ll discuss your lifestyle, sleep habits, skincare routine and medical history before recommending a tailored plan.

During the Procedure

Depending on the chosen treatment, your procedure may involve numbing cream, injections or non-invasive technology. Most sessions take under an hour with minimal discomfort.

Post-Treatment Care

You’ll receive specific aftercare instructions, including what to avoid and what to apply. Some treatments may involve temporary redness or swelling, but downtime is typically minimal.

Dark eye circles Treatment at Bay Aesthetics Clinic

*Caption: Undereye at Bay Aesthetics Clinic with Dr Bernard Tan*

At Bay Aesthetics Clinic, Medical Directors Dr Bernard Tan and Dr Hoe Ying Min are both experienced doctors with over 20 years of combined experience and thousands of patients. With their gentle hands and a sharp eye for beauty, they have accumulated a large following of loyal patients. A high volume of dark eye circle treatments is performed at Bay Aesthetics Clinic. To see their portfolio of before-and-after cases, please contact the clinic.

Ready to Look More Refreshed?

Click here to book your consultation—our doctors will customise a plan that works for your skin.