Dark circles affect us all from time to time, but you may notice that you seem to get them more often if not every day. While it may be possible that you’re struggling with chronic exhaustion, it’s likely a bit more straightforward. Permanent dark circles under the eyes are usually the result of either genetics or aging. There are also temporary conditions that may cause you to develop under-eye circles despite being well-rested. So can you have dark circles if you are not tired?

Can You Have Dark Circles If You Are Not Tired?

If dark circles are a way of life for you, then there are three possible reasons.

1. You have some natural hyperpigmentation underneath the eye. This is more common in non-white ethnic groups and can be aggravated by sun exposure.
2. The aging process has resulted in loss of collagen beneath the eye. This can cause the skin to sink inward, creating a shadow effect.
3. The aging process has resulted in the weakening of the muscles surrounding your eyes. This allows the natural fat pads near your eyes to bulge out, creating that pillow-like area underneath the eye.

In all three cases some treatments may help to make your dark circles less noticeable.

Treating Permanent Dark Circles

Dark circles resulting from genetic hyperpigmentation can usually be addressed by your local dermatologist or plastic surgeon. Chemical peels and laser treatments are some of the most successful options, but you may have to go through several treatments to get the results you want.

As for dark circles resulting from aging, the process is a little more direct. Your eyelid surgeon offers dark circle treatment in St. Paul to help renew the youthful appearance of your eyes.

• For patients with a loss of collagen, dermal fillers can help to erase the hollows from beneath your eyes. Depending on the type of dermal filler, it may simply replace collagen or encourage your body to make its own. Keep in mind dermal fillers will have to be readministered regularly depending on the brand.
• For patients with loosened muscles around the eye, lower eyelid surgery in St. Paul is a much better option. It is more invasive than a simple injectable, but it allows your surgeon to remove excess skin and fat to create long-lasting results.

Either way, you will have a solution to addressing your under-eye circles almost immediately.

Other Temporary Dark Circles

If these explanations don’t seem to apply to you, then several situations may result in you having frequent dark circles without feeling tired. Some of the most common causes include:

• Eye strain: If you find yourself staring at a screen for hours on end, then you may suffer from eye strain. This condition can cause the blood vessels around your eyes to enlarge, which can give the appearance of dark under-eye circles. You can usually relieve eye strain by following the 20-20-20 rule. Every 20 minutes look at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds.
• Allergies: The histamines produced by an allergic reaction will also expand the blood vessels around your eyes. This may be aggravated if you rub your eyes in response to your eyes watering or itching, as it is possible to actually rupture small vessels around your eyes.
• Dehydration: Your skin needs to be properly hydrated to flourish. If you’re seriously dehydrated, then the skin beneath your eyes may sag inward slightly as a result. Lack of hydration can also make your skin look a bit dull or sallow. Together, these effects can copy the look of permanent dark circles resulting from aging.

Finding Solutions

If you’re struggling to deal with your dark circles, you can always talk to your local eye surgeon. With the help of your routine provider, they can find the underlying cause of your dark circles and propose a solution.