Eyelid discoloration
Eyelid discoloration (dark circles) can be a very disturbing phenomenon. Ladies seem to pay more attention to them than men. This is because dark circles make us look older. Understanding the causes of dark circles can help in finding the right cures.
Causes:
- Lack of sleep is one of the leading causes of dark circles under the eyes.
- Allergies -Skin discoloration caused by allergies is very frequent. One should avoid anything that could cause allergies. Also include gluten allergies, as they also have been known to cause dark circles under one’s eyes.
- Vitamin deficiency-some studies suggest that vitamin deficiencies such as lack of vitamin B6, Folic acid, and B12 can cause dark circles under the eyes. Taking a multivitamin every day may be of some help.
- Sinus problems and nasal congestion can result in the discoloration under one’s eyes because the veins that drain blood from the eyes to the nose are usually dilated and darkened.
- Irregularities in the pigmentation of the skin have also been known to cause dark circles. Bear in mind that excessive sun exposure causes an increase in melanin production under the skin and can also darken certain areas.
- As we age, the skin around the eyes tends to become thinner; this can make the veins and vessels more prominent.
- Lifestyle choices such as inadequate nutrition, cigarette smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, caffeinated drinks and lack of exercise have all been known to contribute to under-eye discoloration
- Genetics—we are yet to establish whether under dark circles run in the family.
- Prostaglandin inhibiting eyedrops such as Travatan, Lumigan, and Xalatan used in the treatment of glaucoma are known to cause dark circles under the eyes.
Treatment:
There are so many different remedies and recommendations on the market. Some of them work, and some don’t. You may want to try them to see which one applies to your situation.
- A) Cucumbers have long been used to reduce swelling around the eyes and to tighten the skin around the eyes.
- B) Wrap some ice cubes in a soft cloth and apply them to your eyes. Cold tea bags may also be used. An ingredient called tannin in the tea bags has been known to reduce swelling and discoloration.
- C) Stick a spoon in the freezer and pour water into it. Leave it in the fridge for a short while until the water freezes, place the spoon on the dark circles and leave it there until the ice starts to melt.
- D) Get a good night’s rest. This can help improve the appearance of the eyes.
- E) Cut down your consumption of alcohol and use supplements.
- F) Eat plenty of fruits and vegetables
- G) Reduce your salt intake. Excess salt can cause the body to retain water, and this too can cause puffiness and darken the skin under the eyes.
- H) A deficiency of vitamin K has been shown to also increase the probability of dark circles. Skin creams containing vitamin K have been shown to be effective. Many overnight facial creams help to reduce the appearance of puffiness or eyelid discoloration.
- I) Avoid rubbing the eyes as this irritates the skin around the eyes.
- J) In the case of eye drops if the discoloration is excessive you may want to discuss an alternative with your eye doctor.
Finally, you may choose to wear sunglasses to protect your skin from melanin changes.
Of course, if the symptoms persist do not hesitate to call your eye doctor. Your eye doctor may prescribe an eye ointment to reduce discoloration and swelling.
Remember to keep an eye on your eyes
Consultant Ophthalmologist at Beachmont Eye institute/Eyes R Us
Dr Ken Onu is the CEO and Founder of the Beachmont Eye institute/Eyes R Us. Apart from being a passionate Eye Doctor he is a Public Speaker and Author. He writes frequently on and offline on Eye Care and his other passion: Transformational Growth
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