Are Allergies Causing Your Dark Circles?

Who would've thought that allergies might be the reason for the dark circles underneath your eyes? Usually we blame sleep or genetics for the dark circles, but allergies could be playing a role too.  

Since the skin under your eyes is delicate, choosing gentle skincare matters. Simply Eye Serum is a gentle option for your under-eye skincare routine, made with plant-based ingredients and designed for use around the eye area.

What Causes Dark Circles?

Dark circles can look different from person to person, and there isn't always just one reason behind them. Depending on your natural skin tone, they may appear blue, purple, black or brown.

 Some of the most common causes include:

• Age: Age is one of the most common reasons for dark circles.
• Genetics: Dark circles may be passed down in families.
• Sun exposure: Exposing your skin to too much UV light may lead to more pigment under the eyes.
• Dehydration: If the body is dehydrated, skin may look duller and the eyes may appear more sunken.
• Lack of sleep: Without enough sleep, skin may look paler which tends to make the area under the eyes look darker.
• Lifestyle factors: Things like smoking, stress and alcohol intake could also affect the under eye appearance. 

What Is the Link Between Allergies and Dark Circles?

Dark circles from allergies are commonly known as ‘allergic shiners’.  Why this name, you ask?
During allergy season, the area under our eyes can take on a darker, bruise-like look that might resemble a black eye, hence the name.

When allergies leave your nose feeling stuffy or congested, it may make the area under your eyes look darker than usual, sometimes with a blue, purple or brown tint. Rubbing itchy eyes may also irritate the area and make dark circles look more noticeable. 

How Do You Know If Allergies Are the Cause?

Allergies may be playing a role if your dark circles come with any of the following:

• The circles get worse or appear with seasonal allergies
• Feeling a strong urge to scratch or rub your eyes 
• Itchy, watery, or puffy eyes accompany the dark circles
• You experience a runny nose, sneezing and sinus pressure at the same time

What Can You Do?

If you find that the dark circles appear with other allergy symptoms it may help to identify your possible triggers and limit contact where you can.

Common triggers include:

• Indoor and outdoor mold
• Pet dander
• Pollen 
• Dust

For allergies, it may be worth considering H-Allergy Formula, a homeopathic oral spray made for the temporary relief of sneezing, runny nose, watery eyes, and itchy throat.

If your dark circles are not accompanied by allergy symptoms, here are some things that may help:

• Use sun protection around the eye area
• Make sure you get an adequate night’s rest
• Drink enough water
• Apply a cold compress to the area
• Keep a consistent skincare routine for the under-eye area

For an under-eye skincare routine, Simply Eye Serum is a lightweight formula that absorbs easily and leaves the skin feeling moisturized, with no sticky residue.

When to See a Doctor

If you are experiencing any of the following it is best to speak to a healthcare professional:

• Allergy symptoms are interfering with daily activities
• Symptoms become severe and difficult to manage
• You have a high fever
• Sinus pain or nasal discharge that's green in color
• The dark circles don’t improve once allergy symptoms clear

Frequently Asked Questions

Can allergies cause dark circles?

Allergies may contribute to dark circles, mainly through nasal congestion. This can make the area under the eyes look darker, especially where the skin is thin.

Are dark circles a sign of something serious?

Dark circles are usually harmless and often linked to things like age, genetics, sleep, or allergies. If they change suddenly, appear under only one eye, or come with swelling or other symptoms, speak to a healthcare professional. 

What is Simply Eye Serum?

Simply Eye Serum is made for use under the eyes, as part of a daily routine. The formula is made to help moisturize and leave the skin feeling nourished. 

What is H-Allergy Formula?

H-Allergy Formula is a homeopathic oral spray for the temporary relief of sneezing, runny nose, watery eyes, and itchy throat. It is not intended to treat dark circles or allergic shiners. 

Sources

1. Cleveland Clinic. Allergic Shiners
2. Cleveland Clinic. Dark Circles Under Eyes
3. Mayo Clinic. Dark circles under eyes 

Note: This article is for educational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Consult a healthcare professional if you have concerns about changes to your skin or allergy symptoms.