New Delhi | 30 March 2026

Dark circles under the eyes are often linked to lack of sleep, but experts say the condition is far more complex. According to Hyderabad-based dermatologist Dr Praneeta Jain, multiple underlying factors contribute to dark circles, and identifying the exact cause is essential for effective treatment. She emphasised that using random under-eye creams without understanding the root issue often leads to unsatisfactory results.

Dr Jain explained that there are six major types of dark circles, including pigmentation, structural hollows, pigmentary lines, skin laxity, vascular causes, and a combination of these factors. Pigmentation-based circles appear brown and are linked to excess melanin, while structural dark circles are caused by volume loss under the eyes, creating a shadow effect. Vascular dark circles, on the other hand, appear bluish or purplish due to visible blood vessels beneath thin skin.

The expert noted that each type requires a different approach to treatment. For instance, pigmentation may respond to sunscreen and brightening agents, while structural concerns may need medical procedures like fillers. Vascular dark circles can improve with better sleep and hydration, along with targeted clinical treatments. She also warned that no single cream can address all types, especially in cases influenced by genetics or ageing.

In addition to these causes, common triggers such as dehydration, allergies, thyroid issues, and iron deficiency can worsen dark circles. Dr Jain advised individuals to undergo basic health tests, including haemoglobin and thyroid levels, before starting any treatment. She stressed that a personalised diagnosis and a combination of treatments are key to achieving visible and lasting results.

Dark Circles Not Just About Sleep: Experts Highlight Six Key Causes and Targeted Treatments

Dark circles under the eyes are often linked to lack of sleep, but experts say the condition is far more complex. According to Hyderabad-based dermatologist Dr Praneeta Jain, multiple underlying factors contribute to dark circles, and identifying the exact cause is essential for effective treatment. She emphasised that using random under-eye creams without understanding the root issue often leads to unsatisfactory results.

Dr Jain explained that there are six major types of dark circles, including pigmentation, structural hollows, pigmentary lines, skin laxity, vascular causes, and a combination of these factors. Pigmentation-based circles appear brown and are linked to excess melanin, while structural dark circles are caused by volume loss under the eyes, creating a shadow effect. Vascular dark circles, on the other hand, appear bluish or purplish due to visible blood vessels beneath thin skin.

The expert noted that each type requires a different approach to treatment. For instance, pigmentation may respond to sunscreen and brightening agents, while structural concerns may need medical procedures like fillers. Vascular dark circles can improve with better sleep and hydration, along with targeted clinical treatments. She also warned that no single cream can address all types, especially in cases influenced by genetics or ageing.

In addition to these causes, common triggers such as dehydration, allergies, thyroid issues, and iron deficiency can worsen dark circles. Dr Jain advised individuals to undergo basic health tests, including haemoglobin and thyroid levels, before starting any treatment. She stressed that a personalised diagnosis and a combination of treatments are key to achieving visible and lasting results.