Before buying an eye cream, it helps to know why you have dark circles, because no single product suits every cause.
Find the cause first
The Mayo Clinic explains that dark circles can come from genetics, tiredness, ageing, sun exposure, rubbing the eyes, and skin conditions such as eczema. Pigment changes such as melasma are more common in people with brown or Black skin. Puffy lids or hollows can also cast shadows that look like dark circles, so a cream may not change what is really a shadow.
Ingredients and habits
Mayo Clinic notes that eye products containing kojic acid, caffeine or vitamin K are options people try, and that these are not regulated by the US Food and Drug Administration. It also recommends a daily broad-spectrum sunscreen of SPF 30 or higher, enough sleep, a cold compress, and propping your head on pillows to reduce puffiness.
When to see a specialist
If creams and make-up do not help, a dermatologist can suggest prescription creams, lasers or peels. Changes under only one eye that worsen over time should be checked by a healthcare professional.
Sources: Mayo Clinic: dark circles under eyes.
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