What deficiency can cause dark circles?

Author: Erling Heller  |  Last update: Wednesday, October 8, 2025

What Deficiency Causes Dark Eye Circles on Skin? Vitamin deficiencies that are associated with dark circles include vitamins E, D, K vitamin, A, and B12. In addition to that, iron deficiency is also a root cause of dark circles.

What am I lacking if I 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.

Which vitamin deficiency causes dark under eyes?

Dermatologists suggest that having dark undereye circles should be checked as they aren't just signalling a lack of sleep. "Deficiencies of vitamins D, K and E and some vitamin Bs could be the cause of your dark circles. Check your vitamin levels and take supplements accordingly," advised Dr Deepali Bhardwaj.

What health problems cause dark circles?

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.

What autoimmune diseases cause dark circles?

There are several types of lupus, including systemic lupus erythematosus — the most common type — and cutaneous lupus erythematosus, which affects only the skin. If you suspect a connection between the dark circles under your eyes and your lupus diagnosis, you could be right.

Could this nutrient deficiency cause dark circles?!

What organs cause dark circles?

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.

What do dark circles say about health?

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.

What are the signs of B12 deficiency around the eyes?

Yellow tinge eyes

People dealing with issues of vitamin B12 often look pale and have a slight yellow tinge to the skin and in the white area of the eyes which is a condition known as jaundice. This happens as the body stops producing enough red blood cells due to a lack of B12 vitamin.

What cancels out dark circles?

Here's a quick cheat sheet on which color-corrector shade to use: For redness: Neutralize red and pink tones with a green color corrector. For dark circles and dark spots: Use a peach color corrector if you have fair skin, or a deeper orange shade if you have medium to dark skin.

Can lack of zinc cause dark circles under eyes?

If your body lacks vitamin C, iron or zinc from nutritious foods, the first signs of the deficiency may be dark circles under your eyes.

Is vitamin C or E better for dark circles?

Dr. David adds that hyperpigmentation—which can be a result of an inflammatory condition like eczema, seasonal allergies, or even a reaction to certain skincare products—can also cause dark circles. If your dark circles are caused by hyperpigmentation, then vitamin C can do the trick.

Do dark circles under eyes mean liver problems?

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.

What diet causes dark circles?

Salt/sodium in your diet can also affect dark circles. Alcohol and tobacco use can contribute, as well. Your family history could also make you prone to dark circles.

How to stop dark under eyes?

Visible blood vessels may contribute to dark circles under your eyes. Try holding a cold, wet cloth against the area to help shrink the blood vessels. Or use a cold teaspoon or a bag of frozen peas wrapped in a soft cloth. Using products made to treat dark circles.

Which fruit is rich in vitamin B12?

There are ten major sources of vitamin B12 fruits. These are apples, bananas, oranges, mangoes, strawberries, guava, avocado, pomegranate, kiwi, and blueberries. Apples- Apples rank first in the vitamin B12 fruits list.

What am I deficient in if I have dark circles?

Vitamin deficiencies that are associated with dark circles include vitamins E, D, K vitamin, A, and B12. In addition to that, iron deficiency is also a root cause of dark circles.

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.

Does magnesium help dark circles?

There are several types of dark circles and it is important to classify them. All these symptoms can be removed by eating well, adding the necessary vitamins and minerals such as magnesium and drinking a lot of water.

What cancers cause dark circles under eyes?

The most common signs and symptoms of neuroblastoma include:
  • a lump in the abdomen.
  • a feeling of fullness or swelling in the abdomen.
  • bulging of the eyes.
  • dark circles around the eyes.
  • bone pain.
  • low levels of all 3 types of blood cells (called pancytopenia)
  • lumps or bumps in the skin that are sometimes blue.
  • diarrhea.

Which vitamin is good for dark circles?

Experts recommend using a good-quality Vitamin C under eye cream to reduce dark circles and puffiness. It also helps improve firmness and elasticity, along with reducing fine lines. Adding a natural and safe Vitamin C under-eye cream helps brighten your skin and revives your skin's natural glow.

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