We all have experienced those horrid mornings when you look in the mirror and it looks like you got ran over by a truck. You think to yourself, “Where did these dark circles come from?”. Maybe you were out partying too hard the night before, it could be exhaustion, or even genetic! No matter what the cause is, not a single person LIKES bags under their eyes. Let’s face it, it adds an additional 10+ years to your appearance.
Typically the appearance of shadows and darkening lower eyelids are not temporary. Because its not always about the pigmentation that creates such a dull and hollowed look but it’s the lack of volume. With this area being very delicate this is one of the first places where women show signs of aging. So what can you do to fix this problem?
Make-Up:
The easiest and quickest way is with make-up. At Contour Dermatology we carry a product by Jane Iredale called Circle/Delete. Many of our staff members endorse this product due to its unbelievable results of hiding the discoloration. It is creamy in texture and provides milky coverage that isn’t too heavy. This product creates a brighter, more wide-awake look.
Skin Care Products:
Skin Medica’s TNS Eye Repair is one of the best eye creams on the market. It is physician dispensed, great for all skin types and it works! The purpose of using this product is to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles under the eyes. It can be applied morning and night for best results.
Obagi has the Elastiderm Eye product line that includes a cream and a serum that helps revitalize the skin around your eyes with physician grade ingredients. At Contour Dermatology our favorite is the Obagi Elastiderm Eye Cream, it is formulated with a bi-mineral complex and malonic acid for tighter, smoother-looking skin around the eyes. One of the greatest features of this product is you can use it not only on the lower eyelids but on the uppers as well.
Facial Fillers:
As we said before typically darkening circles are not temporary. So if you are looking for a “fix” that lasts a little longer try a hyaluronic facial filler. These injectable can help with the problem by not making you look as tired. Many times the tissue in the area has been lost so by inputting a filler under the thinning skin it will restore volume around the tear trough and upper cheek area. So if you are not afraid of needles this is a great option that can last up to 6-12 months.
IPL:
Also known as the Photo Facial, the IPL may provide modest benefits as an option for under eye circle treatment. It can correct dark circles if caused by blood vessels for pigment. Since there are numerous reasons behind causes of hallowed eyes, this may not be your best option. We would always recommend coming in for a consultation.
Eyelid Surgery:
This may not be your best option for dark circles particularly however this procedure can definitely reduce the appearance of darkening sunken eyes. By taking out the droopy or puffy look due to excess fat pads in the skin, this can make you look and feel more youthful. This is a very safe and effective surgery with limited social downtime.
For some of us the dark circles under our eyes can lead to a more mature appearance, sometimes it can be worse than wrinkles or grey hair. These cosmetic options we can help manage the appearance of looking older than we already are. Call to set up a consultation today (760) 416-6971.
