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Easy Fix for Dark Under Eye Circles

Dark under eye circles are remarkably common and very bothersome. While we cannot cure the problem, treatments exist to improve their appearance.

Dark under eye circles start as early as the 20s or 30s and usually slowly worsen over time. Dark circles are very common in individuals from the Mediterranean basin, the Middle East and Southeast Asia, and they frequently run in families. If one’s mother or father has dark under eye circles it’s likely that one or more of their children will have the problem as well.

Prescription creams for dark under eye circles

There are many over-the-counter creams that purport to help, but most just don’t work. The best options are prescription vitamin A based tretinoin (Retin A) cream; and 4% hydroquinone cream, a prescription strength lightening agent. When combined, these two prescription creams give an even better result.

Even better than prescription creams

Our favorite and most effective approach is a series of three straightforward outpatient treatments with the short pulsed alexandrite laser. These treatments are well tolerated causing a bit of puffiness and redness of the skin afterwards for 2 to 3 days. The brown discoloration slowly fades with each treatment. While we cannot cure the problem, these laser treatments help to lighten the color significantly.

For more information for treating dark circles please contact one of our experts at SkinCare Physicians.

2 Responses to Easy Fix for Dark Under Eye Circles

• Abdullah says:

  August 3, 2022 at 5:52 pm

  Hi,
  I’m interested in the Short pulsed Alexandrite laser for treatment of under eye dark circles. I’m of skin type 4 and was wondering if I would be suitable for using this laser.

  Reply
  • Dr. Jeffrey Dover says:

    August 8, 2022 at 4:14 pm

    Dark circles under the eye are most common in skin types 3, and 5. You would be an ideal candidate for this treatment as long as it’s done by an expert with good judgment.

    Reply