Why do dark circles worsen with age ?

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Dark circles and aging : rejuvenating the eyes

dark circles under the eyes are a major aesthetic concern for many people, and the phenomenon tends to become more pronounced with age. As we age, the skin undergoes a series of natural transformations that make dark circles more visible. Whether it's a loss of collagen, sagging skin or problems with blood circulation, these factors all contribute to the appearance of dark circles, making the skin look tired and aged look and face.

In this article, we will explore why dark circles become more pronounced over time, the anti-aging treatments available to reduce this issue, and solutions to delay the appearance of age-related dark circles.

Why do dark circles become more pronounced with age ?

Aging inevitably affects the structure and appearance of the skin, especially in areas as delicate as the eye contour. Several factors contribute to the deepening of dark circles over time.

Loss of collagen : collagen is an essential protein that gives skin its firmness and elasticity. With age, collagen production naturally decreases, leading to sagging skin and thinning of the skin. The area under the eyes, where the skin is very thin, becomes more likely to reveal blood vessels, which enhances bluish or purplish circles.
Consequences of collagen loss : thinner skin under the eyes, blood vessels become more visible. Increased appearance of dark circles and wrinkles in this area.
Decrease in subcutaneous fat : aging also leads to a reduction in subcutaneous fat in the face, particularly around the eyes and cheeks. This loss of volume creates shadows under the eyes, amplifying the appearance of hollow dark circles.
Consequences of volume loss : hollowness under the eyes, tired-looking eyes due to aging.
Slowed blood circulation : aging also affects blood circulation, especially around the eyes. Reduced blood flow can cause blood to pool in small vessels beneath the skin, which enhances the bluish or purplish appearance of vascular dark circles. Moreover, the natural lymphatic drainage process becomes less efficient, contributing to the formation of under-eye bags.
Consequences of slowed circulation : blood stagnation gives dark circles a darker color, bags appear due to poor lymphatic drainage.

Hyaluronic acid injections for dark circles

Hyaluronic acid injections are one of the most popular treatments for filling hollow dark circles. Hyaluronic acid is a molecule naturally present in the body, capable of retaining water and adding volume. It fills the hollows of dark circles, smooths and hydrates the skin.

Avantages des injections d’acide hyaluronique pour les cernes

Immediate results : hollow dark circles are filled and the eyes look refreshed.
Moisturising and plumping effect: skin has a firmer, smoother texture.
Résultats naturels : l’acide hyaluronique s’intègre bien aux tissus et donne des résultats subtils.

PRP (platelet-rich plasma) for dark circles

PRP injections est une technique de plus en plus prisée en médecine esthétique pour ses propriétés régénératrices. Ce traitement consiste à utiliser le propre sang du patient, enrichi en plaquettes et facteurs de croissance, pour stimuler la production de collagène et d’élastine. Appliqué au niveau des cernes, le PRP permet de raffermir la peau, d’améliorer la texture et de réduire les cernes pigmentaires.

Benefits of PRP for dark circles

Cellular regeneration : improves skin quality under the eyes, making it firmer and denser.
Reduction of pigmented dark circles : lightens dark coloring by stimulating tissue regeneration.

Laser treatment for dark circles

Laser treatments are frequently used for pigmented or vascular dark circles. They treat pigmentation under the eyes by stimulating skin cell renewal and exfoliating the pigment responsible for the brown discoloration or by tightening visible blood vessels.

Lasers used are :

Fractional laser: the ablative laser reduces pigmentation and stimulates collagen production.
Vascular laser : targets blood vessels under the eyes, thereby reducing vascular dark circles. Unfortunately, results vary and only last a few months.

Benefits of laser treatment for dark circles

Brightening of the eye contour for a fresher, more youthful look.
Long-lasting results after several sessions.

How to delay the appearance of age-related dark circles

Il est possible de retarder l’apparition des cernes liés au vieillissement en adoptant des gestes préventifs et des soins adaptés. Voici quelques conseils pratiques pour préserver un regard jeune et éclatant.

Maintain good hydration : hydration is essential to maintain skin elasticity and prevent the appearance of wrinkles and dark circles. It is important to drink enough water daily and to apply eye contour creams rich in hyaluronic acid and antioxidants.
Benefits of hydration : preserves the elasticity and suppleness of the skin under the eyes, reduces visible signs of fatigue and delays the onset of dark circles.
Use appropriate skincare : using specific eye contour treatments helps protect this delicate area from aging. Creams containing ingredients such as retinol, vitamin C and peptides are particularly effective in stimulating collagen production and reducing dark circles.
Retinol stimulates cell renewal and improves skin texture.
Vitamin C brightens the skin and reduces the appearance of pigmented dark circles.
Peptides stimulate collagen production to firm the skin.
Protect the skin from the sun : the sun is one of the main factors that accelerate skin aging and worsen pigmented dark circles. It is therefore essential to apply sunscreen around the eyes and to wear sunglasses to protect this delicate area from UV rays.
Adopt a healthy lifestyle : good lifestyle habits are essential to slow the onset of dark circles and signs of aging. Sleep, diet and stress management play a crucial role in skin health.
Getting enough sleep (7 to 8 hours per night) promotes cell regeneration and reduces dark circles.
A diet rich in antioxidants, vitamins (especially A, C and E) and omega-3 preserves skin health.
Chronic stress can worsen dark circles and accelerate skin aging. It is therefore important to include relaxation techniques such as meditation or yoga in your routine.

Dark circles and aging : conclusion

Age-related dark circles are a common cosmetic concern, but today there are many solutions to reduce their appearance and rejuvenate the eye contour. Fillers, PRP and lasers are effective treatments for dark circles.

At the same time, adopting preventive habits such as hydration, sun protection and a healthy lifestyle helps slow the onset of dark circles and maintain a fresh, youthful look. For optimal results, it is always recommended to consult a doctor who can offer a treatment tailored to your specific needs.

Article written by Dr Romano Valeria

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