Understanding your dark circles to restore a radiant look
Dark circles, whether blue, brown, or hollow, are among the most common aesthetic concerns. They can make the eyes look tired or sad, reducing the radiance of the face. However, not all dark circles are the same, and to better reduce them, it is essential to understand their origin and characteristics.

The Different Types of Dark Circles Under the Eyes

Dark circles can manifest in various ways depending on their origin. They are classified into three main categories: blue circles (vascular), brown circles (pigmentary), and hollow circles (structural). These distinctions are essential for choosing appropriate solutions.

1. Blue or Vascular Dark Circles: Impaired Lymphatic and Blood Circulation

Blue circles appear as blue-purple hues under the eyes. They result from slowed blood and lymphatic circulation, which promotes the accumulation of blood pigments under the thin skin around the eyes.

• Causes:
  • Lack of sleep: a short night slows down microcirculation, promoting the appearance of bluish circles under the eyes.
  • Tobacco or alcohol consumption
  • Genetic factors
• How to Identify Them:
  • A cold compress applied to the area temporarily reduces their appearance.
• Solutions:
  • Improve microcirculation with caffeine-based treatments.
  • Adopt a balanced lifestyle (regular sleep, healthy diet).
  • Use gentle massage to stimulate circulation.

2. Brown or Pigmented Dark Circles: Local Hyperpigmentation

Brown circles are characterized by a yellowish-brown coloration due to excessive melanin production in the area under the eyes.

• Causes:
  • Genetics (prevalent in dark and olive skin tones).
  • Prolonged exposure to the sun without protection: UV rays damage collagen and intensify hyperpigmentation, causing dark circles.
• How to Identify Them:
  • Their color remains unchanged regardless of the direction of the light.
• Solutions:
  • Prevent and correct hyperpigmentation with skincare products containing vitamin C, kojic acid, or niacinamide.
  • Use appropriate sun protection every day.

3. Hollow or Structural Dark Circles: A Natural Loss of Volume

Hollow circles are linked to a loss of volume under the eyes, creating a visible shadow. This feature can be accentuated by overhead lighting.

• Causes:
  • Natural aging: Over time, as collagen and elastin decrease, the skin loses its firmness and thickness, revealing capillaries or accentuating hollows.
  • Genetic morphology.
  • Rapid weight loss.
• How to Identify Them:
  • Front lighting softens their appearance, while light coming from above accentuates them.
• Solutions:
  • Intense hydration with coenzyme Q10-based skincare products.
  • Consider hyaluronic acid injections to fill in the hollow.
  • Surgical techniques such as lipofilling for long-lasting results.

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How to Differentiate Between Mixed Dark Circles?

Sometimes, dark circles can have combined characteristics (for example, a bluish-brown color with a slight hollow). In this case, it is essential to adopt a multidimensional approach: targeted care, hydration, and sun protection.

Finally, using a tinted concealer can provide an immediate solution.

The pigmentation in the concealer neutralizes dark circles under the eyes, providing even and natural coverage.

Formulas enriched with active ingredients such as caffeine, cornflower hydrosol, and niacinamide improve microcirculation, reduce water retention, and brighten the skin, gradually diminishing the appearance of dark circles.

It is generally recommended to apply concealer after foundation. This method prevents the product from migrating and ensures better coverage. However, the order can be adapted according to personal preference and skin type.