Why do we get dark circles?

Why do we get dark circles?

Dark circles are nothing new, but with mask-wearing prevalent from 2020 into the foreseeable, the eyes aren’t just the ‘windows to the soul’ but the focal point of the entire face. When casually out for a run, a smize has replaced a smile, or a wink if you’re feeling familiar, so it’s no shock that the skincare-savvy and new recruits alike are rushing to take more care of their eyes.

In fact, from 2019 to 2020 sales of eye creams rose* after previously experiencing a decline, with 23% of women now saying their eyes are their biggest area of concern on their face**. While the delicate eye area is prone to fine lines and wrinkles as we age, or dehydration lines especially in colder climes, dark circles are the definitive skin concern that links us all. Why? ‘Cause as you’ll find out as you read on they can affect any skin type and tone at any age, with some causes more preventable than others...

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What is a dark circle?



In short, dark circles are a buildup of oxidised blood beneath the surface of the skin, oftentimes accompanied by a ‘puffy’ look which is usually a buildup of water. As the skin underneath the eyes is thinner than anywhere else on the body, this buildup is more visible and, since it’s on the face, becomes a concern for brighter-skin-seeking individuals, who often reach for creams and concealers to minimise their look.


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What causes dark circles?



As mentioned, there’s a myriad of causes for dark circles, some more within our control than others. Genetics, general ageing, hormonal changes and allergies can influence the darkening of the undereye area no amount of blaming our parents can take these away. With causes like lack of sleep, smoking, dehydration, stress, dehydration and overexposure to sun and pollution, however, we can take steps to lessen further darkening from decreasing our stress triggers (easier said than done) to stopping smoking, drinking more water and religiously wearing sun protection.


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Why are dark circles formed?



Skin on the face (and arguably the hands) is exposed to the most external aggressors like weather changes and free radicals from pollution. And, since the skin under your eyes is the thinnest of the body, this spells bad news. These external aggressions can cause epidermal damage, weakening of the skin barrier and dehydration which, in turn, can lead to the formation of dark circles.


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What can you do about it?



Overwhelmed by all the dark circle causes? Don’t despair. There are steps you can take to minimise the appearance of current dark circles and help prevent darkening or formation of new ones. How? With new Brightening Dark Circle Eye Cream of course.



With our 95% natural-origin cream, 89% said skin looked brighter immediately*** but the hero bioactive, Elderberry Flower Extract, also has credentials to help keep dark circles in check longer term. It’s rich in flavonoids and other polyphenols which have antioxidant benefits, which can help neutralise the free radicals that can trigger dark circles and puffiness around the eye.



This, teamed with Glycogen, which helps to retain moisture and plump the look of skin, leads to a more youthful-looking eye area, so much so that 90% said my eyes look younger and brighter from seven days****. So, whether you’re looking for a cream to help lessen the look of dark circles or help prevent them forming, the clean cream for you is finally here.



*Mintel Report: Women’s Facial Skincare, UK, July 2019

**Mintel Report: Facial and Anti-Ageing Impact of Covid-19, US, May 2020

***Consumer study evaluation of 63 women and 14 men

****Consumer study evaluation of 63 women and 14 men


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