DARK CIRCLES

Two changes to the skin's structure are responsible for dark circles.

Firstly, the infraorbital fat pad, which sits directly under the eye, becomes thinner as we age. The fat pad has an underlying collagen (yellow) colour, but as it diminishes, the area appears darker. This dark shading is in fact the muscle under the eye, which becomes more visible as the infraorbital fat pad decreases.

Secondly, if the microscopic blood vessel structures are damaged, the body attempts to repair the damage by proliferating many small new veins, which further darkens (reddens) this area.

UNDER-EYE BAGS

It is thought that under-eye bags begin with inflammatory sundamage to the vascular and lymph structures under the eye. These microscopic structures begin to leak fluid into this area, which is unable to be drained correctly, causing the fluid to accumulate. Under-eye bags can also be caused by deposits of fat.

EYE-AREA PIGMENTATION

The fragile skin around the eye is prone to freckling and other pigmentary abnormalities. Topical niacinamide is the gentlest approach to correcting this pigmentation. Prescription hydroquinone may also be prescribed by your doctor, who will advise you carefully on the correct therapeutic strength to avoid redness and irritation.