Question: I often have dark circles under my eyes even when I get enough sleep. What causes them and what can I do to get rid of them?
Dr. Hibberd's answer:
Dark circles occur from vein dilation under the eyes, giving a bruised appearance. They are often compounded by shadowing from puffy eyelids or thinning skin and are more noticeable in patients with nasal congestion.
Dark circles under the eyes are common in adults and children with allergies and atopic dermatitis — and are sometimes called "allergy shiners" as a result.
Fatigue does cause dark circles, but since you still have them even when you're not tired, yours are probably caused by congestion or allergies, so you should seek a doctor's evaluation and advice.
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