Are dark circles unhealthy?

Author: Dwight Monahan  |  Last update: Wednesday, December 3, 2025

Dark circles under the eyes usually aren't a medical problem. If you notice changes under just one eye that get worse over time, talk to a healthcare professional. If you want to improve the look of the under-eye area, you might try makeup and home remedies.

Do dark circles under eyes indicate illness?

It is possible, though, for the appearance of darker skin in the area under the eyes to arise from an existing health problem. This can include asthma, allergies, poor circulation, hormonal shifts, malnutrition, anemia and diseases that affect the liver or kidneys.

Are dark circles under eyes really bad?

Dark circles under the eyes happen when the skin beneath both eyes becomes darker than usual. Dark circles under the eyes are usually more noticeable when you're tired. Other lifestyle factors that may contribute to dark circles under the eyes are smoking, drinking too much alcohol and stress.

What deficiency do dark circles indicate?

Dark circles under the eyes can indicate health problems. Dermatologists advise checking for deficiencies in vitamins D, K, and E, and recommend lifestyle changes. Dark circles under the eyes aren't just a cosmetic concern, they can also signal underlying health issues.

Are dark circles signs of liver damage?

Signs of liver disease:

About 20% of people with liver disease have noticeable dark circles around their eyes and other exposed areas of their body. If you notice these symptoms, it's important to see a doctor for proper treatment. Additionally, changing your diet and daily habits can help.

Dark Circles Under Eyes: Causes & Treatments

What organ causes dark circles under the eyes?

Treating Under-Eye Bags

Treating the Underlying Condition: If the dark circles are caused by an underlying medical condition like thyroid problems or kidney issues, it's crucial to address these conditions first. Treating the root cause can help improve the appearance of dark circles.

What do liver failure eyes look like?

Yellow eyes

Jaundice is a common eye-related sign of liver failure and other liver problems. Jaundice makes your skin and the white part of each eye look yellow. Skin yellowing can be harder to notice in people who have darker skin tones.

What are dark circles an indicator of?

If you have dark circles under your eyes, it's probably just a sign of aging, lack of sleep or another common cause. It's usually not caused by a medical problem. But if you have a dark circle or swelling under just one eye, call a healthcare provider.

Does low iron give you dark circles?

The following symptoms of iron deficiency in the eyes may occur: Dark circles under the eyes. Burning or painful eyes. Blurred vision.

Can dark circles go away?

It is not always possible to permanently remove dark circles under the eyes. However, certain treatments and lifestyle changes, such as getting enough sleep, may reduce their appearance. Other ways to reduce or hide dark circles under the eyes include applying cold compresses, vitamin C products, or concealer.

What is the number one cause of dark circles under eyes?

Some of the most common causes of dark circles under the eyes are:
  • Atopic dermatitis (eczema)
  • Contact dermatitis.
  • Fatigue.
  • Genetics.
  • Rubbing or scratching your eyes.
  • Skin changes that happen with aging.
  • Changes in skin color. ...
  • Sun exposure.

How to remove dark circles in 2 minutes?

Cold Compress

A cold compress is a simple yet effective home remedy for reducing dark circles by constricting blood vessels and reducing puffiness around the eyes. Soak a clean washcloth in cold water or refrigerate it for a few minutes to make a cold compress.

Why do I have dark circles under my eyes even though I sleep?

Like bags under eyes, dark circles can be caused by some of the same factors. Fatigue and exhaustion can make your eyes look dark. Salt/sodium in your diet can also affect dark circles. Alcohol and tobacco use can contribute, as well.

Can poor gut health cause dark circles?

If you are struggling with dark circles under your eyes, it might be a sign of gut problems. One study found that people with dark circles had a higher level of gut inflammation than those without dark circles.

Can dehydration cause dark circles?

Dehydration. Research from 2019 states that dehydration is a potential cause of dark under-eye circles. This is because, when the skin contains enough moisture, the contours of the eye socket are less visible.

What is your body lacking when you have dark circles?

Iron Deficiency

Dark circles under the eyes can be caused by anemia, which makes the skin look pale and the area around the eyes look darker. The most common cause of anemia is from not getting enough iron in the diet to make the right amount of red blood cells the body needs.

What do anemic eyes look like?

Yellowish sclera – In other types of anemia, such as hemolytic or sickle cell anemia, the whites of the eyes can develop a yellowish color. Pale inner lower eyelid – Iron deficiency anemia can cause the inside of the lower eyelids to become yellowish or pale instead of a healthy red.

What drink has the most iron?

The following drinks high in iron for anemia can supplement your diet:
  • Prune juice. Prune juice is high in iron and is an excellent supplement to heme (animal-based) iron. ...
  • Beetroot juice. ...
  • Spinach, cashew, and raspberry smoothie. ...
  • Cocoa and beef liver smoothie. ...
  • Pea protein shakes. ...
  • Pumpkin juice.

When should I be concerned about dark circles?

Dark circles under the eyes usually aren't a medical problem. If you notice changes under just one eye that get worse over time, talk to a healthcare professional. If you want to improve the look of the under-eye area, you might try makeup and home remedies.

Which vitamin is good for dark circles?

What Vitamin is Good for Dark Circles Under Eyes? The short answer is vitamin E and A. The former a group of vitamins that contain antioxidant effects and is beneficial to the skin. There is no way you haven't heard of its ability to fight off free radicals, the ones that make us get sick and age faster.

Do dark circles under eyes mean liver problems?

Dark circles under the eyes can be a sign of liver disease, as they are often caused by poor liver function. The liver is responsible for filtering toxins from the blood, and when it is unable to do so, it can result in a build-up of toxins in the body.

What color is your poop if you have a fatty liver?

Belly pain and cramping. Yellowing of the skin and eyes (jaundice) Dark urine. Light-colored poop (stool) that looks gray.

What is the best drink to flush your liver?

Tumeric tea is considered one of the best drinks for liver detox. Studies show that turmeric has properties that can decrease the key pro-inflammatory molecules that initiate, develop, or worsen diseases like liver disease.

What are the four warning signs of a dying liver?

If there are symptoms of liver disease, they may include:
  • Yellowing of the skin and the whites of the eyes, called jaundice. ...
  • Belly pain and swelling.
  • Swelling in the legs and ankles.
  • Itchy skin.
  • Dark urine.
  • Pale stool.
  • Constant tiredness.
  • Nausea or vomiting.

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