What makes circles under eyes

If you are experiencing other allergy symptoms, like itchy eyes, sneezing, or congestion, allergies could be the reason for your dark circles. Taking an antihistamine , like Benadryl or Zyrtec, can help reduce allergy symptoms that may exacerbate the presence of dark circles, Green says, but this is only effective if allergies are the cause of your dark circles.

It is not recommended to take an antihistamine if you are not suffering from allergies. While dark circles can have many environmental causes, they may also be genetic, O'Keefe says. In fact, a study published in the Brazilian medical journal, Anais Brasileiros de Dermatologia, examined the physiological and lifestyle factors contributing to the risk and severity of dark circles in the Brazilian population.

The researchers found that family history was the most significant factor associated with dark circles and that the average age of onset for dark circles among participants was 24 years old. Genetics can determine a couple of factors that contribute to dark circles: collagen levels and melanin production. Anemia is a medical condition characterized by an insufficient amount of red blood cells. It is usually due to a lack of iron in the diet.

With anemia, blood cells are unable to carry enough oxygen to the body's tissues — including those under the eyes. This can result in dark eye circles, Green says. A study published in the Indian Journal of Dermatology found that about half of the patients with dark circles had iron deficiency anemia.

While addressing anemia did not completely get rid of their dark eye circles, many participants in the study reported an improvement when their anemia was treated. Signs of anemia include fatigue, dizziness, and pale skin. If you think you may be anemic, seek medical attention. Broker Resources. Individuals and Families. Health and Wellness. What causes bags under eyes? How can I get rid of bags under my eyes? Here are some tips that may help: Get enough sleep. Being well-rested can help reduce swelling around your eyes.

Try sticking to a low-sodium diet. Salt induces your body to retain water, which can cause bags and puffiness. Limit the amount of alcohol and tobacco products you use What causes dark circles under eyes? The skin may start to sag, and fat that is normally confined to the area around the eye orbit can move into the area below your eyes.

Also, the space below your eyes can accumulate fluid, making the under-eye area appear puffy or swollen. Several factors cause or worsen this effect, including:. Mayo Clinic does not endorse companies or products.

Advertising revenue supports our not-for-profit mission. This content does not have an English version. This content does not have an Arabic version. Overview Bags under eyes — mild swelling or puffiness under the eyes — are common as you age. Request an Appointment at Mayo Clinic. Share on: Facebook Twitter. Over time, they can start to limit your field of vision and impact your ability to see. Keratoconus is a disorder that leads to thinning of your cornea.

It primarily affects children and young adults. We explain causes, treatment, and…. Iritis, also known as anterior uveitis, involves the inflammation of the iris, the colored part of your eye.

It's important to get medical care if you…. Learn more about how long eye strain can last, what changes you can make to your work station to help, and when to see a doctor. Red eyes occur when the vessels in your eye become swollen or irritated.

Discover when to see a doctor, treatment, and more. Health Conditions Discover Plan Connect. Mental Health. Causes Treatment Outlook We include products we think are useful for our readers. Dark circles under the eyes Dark circles under the lower eyelids are common in men and women. Though they can affect anyone, dark circles are most common in people who: are elderly have a genetic predisposition to this condition periorbital hyperpigmentation are from non-white ethnic groups darker skin tones are more prone to hyperpigmentation around the eye area While fatigue may seem like the most logical explanation for this condition, there are a number of factors that can contribute to dark circles under the eyes.

What causes dark circles? Read this next. Medically reviewed by Debra Rose Wilson, Ph.