Did you know, the skin beneath the eye is up to 10 times thinner than that on the rest of the face. Little wonder that it is so quick to show signs of tiredness and ageing.
Dark circles beneath the eyes are a very common complaint and concealers/makeup can only do so much to disguise them.
Many people would not even consider that cosmetic treatments could help to improve the issue.
The first step is to understand the cause.
10 causes of dark circles
Since the skin and fatty layer are so thin beneath the eyes, the blood vessels are less well hidden. It is this that gives the darker appearance. However, there are other factors that can make a person more likely to experience dark circles:
- Anatomy/genetics – some people’s facial shape and structure makes the area beneath the eyes more convex and therefore more susceptible to dark circles
- Ageing process – loss of soft tissue means that the underlying vessels are more apparent, causing the discoloured appearance
- Skin tone – those with darker skin tones (Fitzpatric 4+) are more inclined to developing visible dark circles beneath the eyes
- Sun damage – sun exposure can cause hyperpigmentation, which is caused by damaged or over-stimulated melanin-containing skin cells
- Diet – poor diet can have an effect on the skin and this is most visible where the skin is delicate i.e. around the eyes
- Tiredness – it is not a myth, insufficient sleep can cause the eyes to look tired with more pronounced dark circles
- Circulation – if you have a circulation problem, then that can also cause dark circles to appear. Any pre-treatment consultation should consider whether this or any other medical issues may be a factor
- Smoking – associated with higher risk of developing darker circles under the eyes. Reducing smoking can make you look healthier and more alert
- Drinking alcohol/coffee – associated with higher risk of developing darker circles under the eyes
- Hormones – fluctuations in hormonal balance including menstruation, menopause or contraceptive pills can have an impact
Dark circles treatment options
The good news is that modern aesthetic medicine has a host of potential solutions to improve dark circles. These are advanced, doctor-led treatments delivered in skin clinics rather than high street beauty salons. Dark circle treatment options involve advanced techniques that demand a higher level of expertise than may be available on the local high street. However, skin clinics such as Mulberry House Clinic in Northamptonshire offer a range of treatments that can improve common concerns for brighter eyes.
Dermal Fillers – ‘Tear Troughs’
Hyaluronic acid-based dermal fillers (HA) are often the first choice recommendation for improving dark circles beneath the eyes. The procedure is also sometimes referred to as ‘tear troughs’.
The principle is to use filler injections to replenish lost volume and add depth within the skin. This builds up a bit more fullness within the delicate layers of skin and helps to cover up the deeper veins and blood vessels which were causing discolouration.
Injecting filler around the eyes requires a very delicate touch. It uses tiny amounts of filler product, but demands advanced techniques. Therefore it is vital to choose a practitioner carefully – someone who is experienced in treating this area and also has a medical background to understand the anatomy in order to minimise any risk of problem.
Please download Secrets to Successful Dermal Filler Treatment for more information on choosing the right practitioner as well as understanding the importance of product safety.
Tixel® Thermal Fractional Rejuvenation
Tixel® is an innovative treatment which uses pure heat to stimulate the skin tissue in regeneration and tightening – including collagen, which naturally makes the skin thicker and firmer.
The non-ablative treatment is less aggressive so suitable for delicate eye tissues, yet can produce noticeable results in refreshing and rejuvenating the appearance of the eyes.
This is a less well-known treatment, but can achieve remarkable results without any injections at all. It can also be used alongside dermal fillers as part of a treatment programme for a more comprehensive result.
Dark Circle Treatments in Northamptonshire
Dr John Tanqueray at Mulberry House Clinic based in Hardingstone near Northampton has an excellent reputation for providing natural-looking anti-ageing treatments that are designed to address particular areas of concern.
He carries out detailed consultations in person prior to treatment. He administers all injections himself and is an advanced practitioner in dermal fillers and BOTOX®.
Mulberry House Clinic
Established 2003
Mulberry House Clinic has an excellent reputation in the Northampton area as an independent, doctor-led practice with over 20 years experience. Dr John Tanqueray is a former GP who can assess and diagnose skin conditions from a medical perspective before suggesting the most appropriate treatments.
A private consultation is the starting point for all patients in order to facilitate a full discussion about the desired results as well as detailed facial and skin assessment. Find out more about first consultation.
For further information or to arrange a confidential consultation, please complete our contact form, call 01604 702630 or email: info@mulberryhouseclinic.co.uk.
