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Dark Circles
Dark circles are areas of darkening under the eyes. They are very common and usually harmless, linked to tiredness, genetics, ageing and thin under-eye skin.
Causes & risk factors
- Lack of sleep and tiredness
- Genetics and family tendency
- Ageing and thinning skin
- Pigmentation and sun exposure
- Iron deficiency (anaemia)
- Allergies and eye rubbing
Common symptoms
- Darkening of the skin under the eyes
- A tired or dull appearance
- Puffiness in some cases
- Darkening worse when tired
Tests & diagnosis
- Clinical examination
- Hemoglobin
- Ferritin / iron studies
- Thyroid function test
Treatment & management
- Adequate sleep and hydration
- Treating any iron deficiency or allergy
- Sun protection and gentle skincare
- Under-eye creams as advised
- Cosmetic treatments in selected cases
When to see a doctor urgently
- Dark circles with tiredness and pale skin (possible anaemia)
- Sudden or one-sided darkening or swelling
- Dark circles with allergy symptoms
- Persistent circles despite good sleep
Not a diagnosis. MedDroid gives general educational information about dark circles. It cannot examine you, diagnose or prescribe — always confirm with a qualified doctor.
Frequently asked questions
Are dark circles always due to lack of sleep?
No. While tiredness is a common cause, genetics, ageing, pigmentation, allergies and iron deficiency also contribute.
Can dark circles be a sign of a health problem?
Usually they are harmless, but circles with tiredness and paleness can suggest anaemia, so it is worth checking if they persist.
Explore more
Sources & further reading
- World Health Organization (WHO)
- MedlinePlus — U.S. National Library of Medicine
- Ministry of Health & Family Welfare, India
- Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR)
Reviewed by Dr. Sanjay Anbu, MBBS. MedDroid is an AI medical assistant and can make mistakes. It provides general health information, not a diagnosis or medical advice — always consult a qualified clinician. In an emergency, contact your local emergency number immediately.