Why do dark circles worsen with age ?

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Dark circles and aging : rejuvenating the eyes

Les dark circles under the eyes are a major aesthetic concern for many people, and this phenomenon tends to become more pronounced with age. As we grow older, the skin undergoes a series of natural transformations that make dark circles more visible. Whether it is loss of collagen, skin laxity or blood circulation issues, these factors all contribute to accentuating dark circles, giving a tired and aged appearance to the eye area and the face.
In this article, we will explore why dark circles become more pronounced over time, the available anti-aging treatments to reduce this problem, 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 accentuation of dark circles over time.

Loss of collagen : collagen is an essential protein that gives the skin its firmness and elasticity. With age, collagen production naturally decreases, leading to skin laxity and thinning. The under-eye area, where the skin is very thin, becomes more likely to reveal underlying blood vessels, which accentuates bluish or purplish dark circles.
Consequences of collagen loss : thinner skin under the eyes, blood vessels become more visible. Accentuated dark circles and wrinkles in this area.
Decrease in subcutaneous fat : aging also leads to a reduction of 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 : hollows under the eyes, aging of the gaze which appears tired.
Slowing of blood circulation : aging also affects blood circulation, particularly around the eye contour. Reduced blood flow can cause blood to stagnate in the small vessels under the skin, which intensifies the bluish or purplish color of vascular dark circles. In addition, the natural lymphatic drainage process becomes less effective, contributing to the formation of under-eye bags.
Consequences of slowed circulation : blood stagnation, which gives dark circles their dark color, appearance of bags 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.

Benefits of hyaluronic acid injections for dark circles

Immediate results : hollow dark circles are filled and the eyes look refreshed.
Moisturising and plumping effect : skin has a firmer, smoother texture.
Natural results : hyaluronic acid integrates well with the tissues and provides subtle results.

PRP (platelet-rich plasma) for dark circles

PRP is an increasingly popular technique in aesthetic-oriented medicine for its regenerative properties. This treatment involves using the patient’s own blood, enriched with platelets and growth factors, to stimulate the production of collagen and elastin. Applied to the under-eye area, PRP helps firm the skin, improve texture, and reduce pigmented dark circles.

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.

The 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

It is possible to delay the appearance of aging-related dark circles by adopting preventive habits and appropriate skincare. Here are some practical tips to maintain a youthful and radiant look.

Maintaining good hydration : hydration is essential to preserve the skin’s elasticity and prevent the appearance of wrinkles and dark circles. It is important to drink enough water daily, but also to apply specific moisturizing creams for the eye contour, rich in hyaluronic acid and antioxidants.
Benefits of hydration : preservation of elasticity and suppleness of the skin under the eyes, reduction of visible signs of fatigue and delayed appearance of dark circles.
Using suitable skincare : using specific treatments for the eye contour helps protect this fragile 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.
Protecting your skin from the sun : the sun is one of the main factors that accelerate skin aging and worsen pigmented dark circles. It is therefore crucial to apply sunscreen around the eyes and wear sunglasses to protect this fragile area from UV rays.
Benefits of sun protection : prevention of hyperpigmentation and brown dark circles. Prevention of premature skin aging.
Adopting a healthy lifestyle : a good lifestyle is essential to slow the appearance of dark circles and signs of aging. Sleep, diet and stress management play a crucial role in skin health.
Sleeping enough (7 to 8 hours per night) helps promote cell regeneration and reduce dark circles.
A diet rich in antioxidants, vitamins (especially A, C and E) and omega-3 helps preserve 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

Dark circles related to aging are a common aesthetic concern, but today there are many solutions to reduce their appearance and rejuvenate the eye contour. Fillers, PRP and lasers are effective treatments for addressing dark circles.
At the same time, adopting preventive habits such as hydration, sun protection and a healthy lifestyle helps slow the appearance of dark circles and maintain a fresh and youthful look. For optimal results, it is always recommended to consult a doctor, who will be able to offer a treatment tailored to your specific needs.

Article written by Dr Romano Valeria

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