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What Causes Periorbital Dark Circles?

Posted on Sat, 4 Jun 2016

Question: I have darkness (like a racoon) under both eyes. Is it melesma?

Answered by Dr. Dr. Kakkar (2 hours later)

Brief Answer:
Not melasma

Detailed Answer:
Hello. Thank you for writing to us

I am dr.kakkar(dermatologist). I have gone through your query and i have also reviewed the attachment.

This is not melasma. Melasma is commonly seen on malar area/prominences of cheeks rather than in periorbital area and is due to excess melanin deposition in epidermis with or without dermis.

Periorbital darkness is not due to excess pigment. Rather it is commonly due to a combination of factors like thin delicate skin in this region, congestion, stagnation/slow circulation leading to accumulation of deoxygenated hemoglobin, loss of periorbital supporting tissue leading to hollowness of orbits and sometimes also due to acanthosis nigricans.

Regards

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar

Follow up: Dr. Dr. Kakkar (1 minute later)

Can it be from stress?

Answered by Dr. Dr. Kakkar (14 hours later)

Brief Answer:
Stress is a factor

Detailed Answer:
Hi.

Definitely, stress and lack of sleep can make dark circles more obvious/ prominent.

Regards

Note: Hope the answers resolves your concerns, however for further guidance of skin related queries consult our Dermatologist.Click here to book a consultation

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar