What Causes Dark Circles Under Eyes?

Written by aesthetic content writer Catherine. Reviewed by Medical Director Dr. Sabrina Shah-Desai
Published on: January 15, 2025
Dermal Filler

What Causes Dark Circles Under Eyes

Do you feel like you always look tired? Those dark circles around your eyes can make you appear exhausted or stressed, even when you’re well-rested. Many people find themselves asking, “Why do I have dark circles under my eyes?” While late nights and stress are often the first suspects, nutrient deficiencies might be the real cause of these stubborn shadows. 

So, what causes dark circles under eyes if it’s not just fatigue? Sometimes, it’s as simple as missing key vitamins and minerals. This blog explores what deficiency causes dark circles, why they appear, and how you can reclaim a refreshed look with the right nutrients and lifestyle changes.

What Are Dark Circles?

Dark circles refer to the discolouration of the skin under the eyes. Sometimes, the shadows may appear mildly dark, while at other times, they form noticeable big black circles around the eyes. 

Several factors contribute to dark circles: the skin under the eyes is thinner and lighter in comparison to other portions of the face, which makes blood vessels more visible beneath the surface, causing a darkened appearance. 

But, it is not just external reasons like lack of sleep or overwork that contribute to dark circles. Nutrient deficiencies can also play a significant role in causing these annoying dark circles.

What Deficiency Causes Dark Circles?

There are several vitamin and mineral deficiencies that are linked to the development of dark circles under the eyes. Here are the most common ones:

1. Iron Deficiency (Anaemia)

An iron deficiency is the primary cause of dark circles around the eyes. It helps in the production of haemoglobin, which carries oxygen in the blood. When iron levels are low, blood circulation can be affected.

As a result, the skin under your eyes may look pale or dark. Sometimes, sudden dark circles under the eyes may signal an iron deficiency in the body.

2. Vitamin K Deficiency

Vitamin K has a lot to do with blood clotting and circulation. A deficiency in this vitamin can lead to more noticeable dark circles under the eyes due to poor circulation. Vitamin K helps prevent blood from stagnating below the eyes, so when it’s lacking, dark circles become more noticeable.

3. Vitamin C Deficiency

Vitamin C is essential for the production of collagen and the maintenance of healthy skin. A deficiency in vitamin C can weaken the blood vessels under the eyes, leading to dark circles. 

When blood vessels are weak, the skin becomes more prone to bruising. If you have low levels of vitamin C, the weakened blood vessels can make dark circles more visible under the eyes.

4. Vitamin B12 Deficiency

Vitamin B12 is essential for the production of red blood cells and also the overall health of your skin. A deficiency in this vitamin can lead to various issues, including skin-related problems. One noticeable sign is the appearance of dark circles under the eyes. 

If your skin isn’t getting the required amount of vitamin B12, it may lose its healthy glow, making your veins more visible, which contributes to the developing dark circles under the eyes.

5. Folate (Vitamin B9) Deficiency

Folate, also known as vitamin B9, ensures healthy blood flow and healthy skin. A deficiency in folate causes dark circles around the eyes, too. 

Similar to other deficiencies, poor circulation causes blood vessels under the eyes to become more visible, resulting in darker circles around the eyes.

How to Fix Dark Circles Caused by Deficiencies?

If you are wondering why you have dark circles under your eyes and suspect that it could be caused by a nutrient deficiency, the best course of action is to replenish these missing nutrients. Here’s how:

1. Diet: Include iron-rich foods like spinach, red meat, lentils, and vitamin K-rich foods like kale and broccoli. For vitamin C, add oranges, bell peppers, and strawberries to your diet.

2. Supplements: If the above said doesn’t work, consider supplements under the supervision doctor. Look into supplements for iron, folate and vitamin B12 deficiencies.

3. Hydration: Dark circles can also be caused due to dehydration, so drink plenty of water throughout the day to stay hydrated.

4. Adequate Sleep: Getting enough sleep is a core aspect of healthy skin, and it helps improve circulation. Combine healthy eating habits with ample rest to reduce dark circles around the eyes.

5. Gentle Products for Skin Care: Look for products with ingredients like caffeine and vitamin C, which can boost circulation and reduce puffiness around the eyes.

Alternatively, treatments like Dermal Fillers in London can help smooth out and brighten the under-eye area for a more refreshed appearance.

Other Causes of Dark Circles

Although deficiencies may be a common cause for dark circles under the eyes, there are also other reasons. These include:

• Genetics: Some people inherit the characteristic of visibly having blood vessels around their eyes, which can make dark circles more apparent.

• Ageing: As one grows older, the skin tends to thin down, and the amount of fat and collagen that circulates around the eyes declines, thus making dark circles visibly evident.

• Allergies: Allergies can cause inflammation and swelling around the eyes, leading to the appearance of dark circles.

Conclusion 

If you ever have dark circles in the area of your eyes, it might be because of the deficiencies of primary vitamins and minerals like iron, vitamin K, vitamin C, or vitamin B12. 

Correcting these deficiencies through diet and supplements can significantly reduce those stubborn dark circles. However, if the condition persists or worsens, consult an experienced doctor for further advice.

Additionally, if you’re looking for more ways to enhance your under-eye area, consider exploring solutions to ‘How to get rid of under-eye fine lines?’ alongside addressing nutrient deficiencies. With the right care and attention, you can achieve a brighter, more refreshed look.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can dehydration cause dark circles?

Yes, dehydration under your eyes might give your skin a dull and tired look. It may worsen the existing dark circles.

2. Do dark circles suggest a serious health condition?

Most of the time, dark circles are innocuous. If they come from nowhere or start to worsen, it may be worth checking for deficiencies or other serious health conditions.

3. Can natural remedies help with dark circles?

Natural remedies like cold compresses or cucumber slices may offer temporary relief from puffiness, but they don’t address the root causes and might not be effective for everyone. However, to reduce discolouration and dark circles around the eyes, the Dr Sabrina™ Eye Regenerate LED Mask can be a highly effective solution. It works wonders.

4. Does the presence of dark circles depend on heredity?

Yes, genetics can play a role in whether you experience black circles under the eyes. Factors like thinner skin, visible veins, and fat distribution around the eyes can be inherited.

5. Do topical creams work?

Eye creams with ingredients like retinol, vitamin C, hyaluronic acid, or caffeine can help hydrate the skin, reduce hyperpigmentation, and lessen the appearance of shadows. Their effectiveness depends on the underlying cause and severity of your dark circles.

6. How long does it take to start noticing the effects of vitamins on dark circles?


The benefits of vitamins may take a few weeks to several months to become noticeable, depending on the severity of the deficiency and the individual’s response to treatment.

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About the Author

Catherine

Expert Aesthetic Writer At Perfect Skin Studio Catherine is an expert content writer. Specialised in the aesthetic industry, she deeply understands aesthetic concepts and crafts informative and accessible content about them. At Perfect Skin Studio, Catherine's writings cover diverse skin, eyes, beauty, and aesthetic concerns, providing clear insights and practical solutions. She explores and addresses the latest trends, techniques, and treatments to keep our readers informed and engaged.

View all posts by Catherine

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Director, Perfect Skin Studio

Dr. Sabrina Shah-Desai

With over 24 years of experience in both surgical and non-surgical procedures, Dr. Sabrina Shah-Desai is widely acknowledged as one of the most trusted and experienced practitioners in the UK. Her expertise, extensive training & compassionate approach have earned her the reputation as the preferred choice for patients seeking top-tier cosmetic treatments.

Dedicated to enhancing each patient’s natural beauty and instilling confidence at every age, Dr. Sabrina and her team customise treatment plans to achieve the best possible outcomes for each individual.

Dr. Sabrina’s excellence has been recognised through prestigious awards like the UK Safety in Beauty Diamond Award for “Aesthetic Doctor of the Year 2023” and the Aesthetic Award for “Highly Commended Consultant Surgeon 2022,” and “Best Consultant Surgeon 2021” & “Best Surgical Result 2021”. As a well-respected figure in aesthetics, she was honoured as one of the Global 100 Most Influential Aesthetic Practitioners of 2019 by the My Face My Body Awards.