Dark Circles Under the Eyes: The 3 Types, and How to Reduce Them at BabyFace MedSpa
Understanding and Treating Under-Eye Circles
Dark circles under the eyes are one of the most common concerns we see at BabyFace MedSpa in Scottsdale, so you’re definitely not alone. If you’ve ever wondered why your under-eyes look tired even when you feel fine, the answer isn’t always simple.
Research shows that under-eye dark circles aren’t caused by just one issue. Instead, they’re usually a mix of pigment changes, visible blood vessels, and natural facial anatomy, and this combination looks a little different for everyone.
A comprehensive review in the Journal of Cutaneous and Aesthetic Surgery emphasizes that successful treatment depends on addressing the cause of dark circles, not just covering them up.
That’s why at BabyFace, we take an evidence-based, personalized approach. We start by identifying which type of dark circle you have, then create a treatment plan that may include advanced in-office treatments and one of our favorite medical-grade eye products, ISDIN K-Ox Eyes.
What Causes Under-Eye Dark Circles?
Clinical research consistently points to three main types of under-eye dark circles. Because the skin beneath the eyes is incredibly thin and lacks the cushioning fat found elsewhere on the face, even small changes underneath can make a big visual impact.
Let’s break them down.
1. Pigmented Dark Circles
Pigmented dark circles tend to look brown or yellow and are caused by excess melanin in the skin. They’re more common in people with deeper skin tones or a genetic tendency toward hyperpigmentation.
Common contributors include:
Sun exposure (especially relevant here in Scottsdale ☀️)
Hormonal changes
Chronic eye rubbing from allergies
Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation
According to the Journal of Clinical and Aesthetic Dermatology, UV exposure and inflammation play a major role in worsening under-eye pigmentation over time, making daily protection and targeted treatment especially important.
2. Vascular Dark Circles
Vascular dark circles appear blue, purple, or reddish and are caused by visible blood vessels beneath thin, translucent skin. The under-eye area has a dense network of blood vessels, so changes in circulation or fluid buildup can quickly affect how dark the area looks.
Common triggers include:
Poor sleep
Allergies or sinus congestion
Dehydration
Fluid retention
Studies published in Dermatologic Surgery highlight that vascular congestion and skin translucency, not pigmentation alone, are the main drivers of this type of dark circle. This explains why they often look worse on some days than others.
3. Structural (Hollow) Dark Circles
Structural dark circles aren’t true discoloration at all. Instead, they’re caused by volume loss and natural anatomical changes. As we age, the fat, bone, and soft tissue that support the under-eye area gradually diminish, creating hollows along the tear trough. These depressions cast shadows that make the area appear dark and tired.
Age-related contributors include:
Loss and descent of fat pads
Bone resorption along the orbital rim
Tightening of ligaments between the eyelid and cheek
Detailed anatomical research published in Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery confirms that these changes are structural, which is why topical products alone can’t fully correct them.
Why Dark Circles Often Get Worse Over Time
Lifestyle & Environment
Scottsdale’s intense sun exposure and dry climate can thin the delicate under-eye skin over time. Dehydration increases translucency, while salty foods, poor sleep, and stress can contribute to puffiness and shadowing.
Inflammation & Aging
Chronic allergies, eye rubbing, and UV exposure worsen pigmentation and UV rays weaken collagen. Meanwhile, natural aging continues to affect facial structure, making dark circles more noticeable even if you’re diligent with skincare.
How BabyFace MedSpa Can Help
Hyaluronic Acid Injectables
For patients with hollowing or shadowing, hyaluronic acid injectables can restore support in the tear trough area. When placed strategically, they smooth the transition between the lower eyelid and cheek, reducing shadows and creating a brighter, more rested look.
Anatomy-based studies show that proper technique, depth, and product choice are essential for safe, natural results. When performed conservatively, results are immediate and can last several months.
Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) Therapy
PRP uses your body’s own growth factors to improve skin quality, tone, and collagen production under the eyes. Results develop gradually and are ideal for patients looking for a regenerative, low-risk option with natural-looking improvement over time.
Daily Care: ISDIN K-Ox Eyes
We proudly offer ISDIN K-Ox Eyes, a clinically studied eye cream designed to target multiple causes of dark circles, including vascular discoloration, pigmentation, and puffiness.
Key benefits include:
Improved microcirculation
Reduced hemosiderin-related discoloration
Less fluid retention
Enhanced hydration
With consistent twice-daily use, clinical studies show visible improvement in as little as four weeks.
Discuss your individual needs and expectations with your provider to determine which products or treatments are the best choice for you.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can dark circles be permanently eliminated?
Not permanently, genetics and aging play a role, but they can be significantly improved. Most patients see long-lasting results with the right combination of treatments.
How soon will I see results?
Injectables offer immediate improvement. PRP enhances skin quality gradually over several months. Topical products typically show results within 6 weeks.
Are topical treatments enough on their own?
Topicals are great for maintenance but can’t correct structural hollowing. Professional treatments are often needed for comprehensive improvement.
Why do my dark circles look worse in the morning?
Fluid tends to accumulate overnight, causing puffiness and shadowing. This usually improves as the day goes on.
Under-Eye Treatment in Scottsdale: Confidence Starts Here
Dark circles may be complex, but they’re manageable with the right approach. At BabyFace MedSpa, we specialize in personalized under-eye rejuvenation guided by clinical evidence, anatomy, and decades of experience.
Our Scottsdale team specializes in the nuanced evaluation and treatment of periorbital concerns, ensuring safe interventions customized to your unique anatomy and aesthetic goals.
Our goal is simple: natural, refreshed results that help you look well-rested and confident, never overdone.
👉 Schedule a consultation with BabyFace MedSpa Scottsdale to find out which under-eye treatment is right for you.
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Disclaimer: These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. These supplements and treatments are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Always consult with your healthcare provider before starting a new supplement, especially when combining with medical spa treatments. Individual results may vary.