What Causes Dark Circles Under the Eyes? Types, Causes & How to Tell Them Apart

Why do dark circles appear under the eyes? Although they are often associated with a lack of sleep, the answer is more interesting than you might think. Skin pigmentation, the appearance of blood vessels, natural facial contours, and shadows beneath the lower eyelids can all contribute to a darker-looking under-eye area.

In Japanese beauty discussions, dark circles are commonly described as four types: blue, brown, black, and red. Blue circles are often associated with visible blood vessels and the characteristics of thin skin. Brown circles are linked to pigmentation, while black circles generally refer to shadows created by under-eye hollows or puffiness. Red circles may involve visible vessels or changes in the skin's appearance.

Have you ever wondered why your under-eye area looks dark even after a good night's sleep? Perhaps you have noticed more pronounced shadows in your 40s or 50s, or found that concealer does not always create the smooth, natural finish you want.

The important thing to understand is that not all dark circles have the same underlying characteristics. A brownish area of pigmentation is different from a shadow formed by a natural hollow beneath the eye. Sometimes, several characteristics overlap, making the area appear darker than any single feature would on its own.

Understanding these differences can help you make more informed choices about your skincare routine and makeup.

In this guide, we explore the four commonly discussed types of dark circles, their possible causes, and three simple observations that may help you understand your under-eye appearance. We also look at everyday lifestyle factors, moisturising skincare for women in their 40s and 50s, and practical ways to choose and apply concealer.

Chapter 1｜How Can You Tell Different Types of Dark Circles Apart?

If you have dark circles under your eyes, you may have wondered whether yours are blue, brown, black, or red.

Rather than trying to identify a type by colour alone, it can be helpful to consider three things: the colour you see, the way shadows appear, and whether the under-eye area looks different throughout the day.

For example, brownish pigmentation and a dark shadow beneath an under-eye hollow may look similar at first glance, even though their underlying features are different.

A blue or reddish-purple appearance may involve the visibility of blood vessels and the characteristics of the surrounding skin.

It is worth remembering that blue, brown, black, and red circles are convenient beauty descriptions rather than four universally recognised medical diagnoses. Looking in the mirror cannot establish an exact cause.

Still, paying attention to the appearance of your under-eye area can help you understand your own facial features and make everyday beauty choices.

You might notice, for example, that the area beneath your eyes appears darker in bathroom lighting but softer when you stand near a window.

Someone else may notice a brownish tone that looks relatively similar in different lighting conditions. Others may have been aware of a bluish-purple appearance since childhood.

These differences remind us that genetics, facial anatomy, skin characteristics, age, and lifestyle can all play a part in how the eye area looks.

In dermatology, under-eye darkening may be discussed in terms of pigmentation-related, vascular, structural, and mixed characteristics.

A mixed appearance means that more than one feature may be present. For example, pigmentation and shadows from an under-eye hollow may overlap in the same area.

That is why some dark circles do not fit neatly into a single category.

These observations are intended as general beauty guidance, not a method of self-diagnosis. There is no need to pull, press, or rub the delicate skin beneath your eyes. Simply observe your natural features and use what you learn to guide your skincare and makeup choices.

Chapter 2｜What Causes Brown Dark Circles? Pigmentation, Sun Exposure and Rubbing

Brown dark circles describe a brownish or darker appearance beneath the eyes or around the eyelids. One possible contributing factor is melanin, the natural pigment involved in the colour of our skin and hair.

The amount and distribution of melanin vary between individuals, which is one reason skin tones and pigmentation patterns differ.

When exploring brown under-eye circles, one everyday habit is particularly worth considering: rubbing the eyes.

Think about how often you may touch the delicate skin around your eyes without realising it. You might rub your eyes during allergy season, when feeling sleepy, or while removing eye makeup after a long day.

After skin inflammation, some people experience a change in pigmentation known as post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation. This is one of the skin processes that may contribute to a brownish appearance around the eyes.

For this reason, how you handle your eye area during cleansing deserves just as much attention as the products you choose.

If you wear waterproof mascara or eyeliner, choose a makeup remover suitable for those products and follow its instructions carefully.

Rather than repeatedly rubbing stubborn makeup, take a gentle approach and allow the cleansing product to be used as directed.

Another factor frequently discussed in relation to pigmentation is sun exposure.

Ultraviolet radiation is involved in the skin's production of melanin. Making sun protection part of your everyday routine is therefore an important aspect of caring for your skin.

On sunny days, a wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses with appropriate UV protection can be useful additions to your outdoor routine.

When choosing sunglasses, look at their UV protection information rather than relying on how dark the lenses appear. Dark lenses do not necessarily provide greater UV protection.

If you apply sunscreen near the eyes, check the manufacturer's directions to ensure the product is suitable for that area, and take care to avoid getting it into your eyes.

Brown under-eye pigmentation may also be influenced by natural skin tone, inherited characteristics, and previous skin conditions.

For women in their 40s and 50s, a thoughtful beauty routine may include gentle makeup removal, appropriate sun protection, and moisturising products chosen for the skin's current needs.

If the skin around your eyes feels dry, look for moisturising products whose directions allow use in that area. Choosing comfortable textures and a routine you genuinely enjoy can make daily skincare more pleasant.

Makeup can also offer creative ways to work with brownish tones. A concealer that blends naturally with your complexion can be a useful part of your beauty routine. We will explore colour selection in more detail in Chapter 7.

Chapter 3｜Blue and Red Dark Circles: Blood Vessels, Thin Skin and Allergies

Blue dark circles may appear bluish, purplish, or grey beneath the eyes. Red dark circles, meanwhile, describe an area that has a reddish or reddish-purple appearance.

Both appearances may be influenced by the characteristics of the surrounding skin and the visibility of blood vessels beneath it.

The skin on our faces does not have the same thickness everywhere. Some areas around the eyes are particularly thin, allowing features beneath the skin to influence the colour we see at the surface.

This helps explain why some people notice bluish-purple under-eye circles even when they are sleeping well.

Inherited characteristics can also contribute. You may notice that several members of the same family have a similar appearance around the eyes.

Although blue dark circles are often associated with tiredness, sleep is only one part of a much broader picture.

Another interesting connection involves allergic rhinitis, including seasonal allergies such as hay fever.

Nasal congestion associated with allergies can influence the veins around the nose and eyes, sometimes contributing to a darker appearance beneath the lower eyelids.

In medical discussions, this appearance is sometimes called allergic shiners.

For example, someone who experiences nasal congestion and itchy eyes during pollen season may notice that their under-eye area looks darker at the same time.

Of course, bluish-purple dark circles do not automatically mean that a person has allergies. If symptoms affecting your nose or eyes persist, a healthcare professional can help assess them.

Red dark circles also require a little clarification.

Although the term is commonly used in some beauty discussions, it is not a universally defined medical category.

A reddish-purple appearance may be related to visible vessels, while redness in the skin itself may have other contributing factors.

Rather than judging the area by colour alone, it is helpful to pay attention to how the surrounding skin feels. Persistent itching, discomfort, or irritation deserves appropriate attention.

For everyday skincare, treat the eye area gently during cleansing and choose moisturising products suitable for use around the eyes when dryness is a concern.

Blue and reddish-purple tones can also inspire different makeup choices. Understanding the colours you see may help you discover concealer shades that work beautifully with your natural complexion.

Chapter 4｜Black or Shadow-Type Dark Circles: Hollows, Puffiness and Under-Eye Bags

Black dark circles, often better described in English as shadow-type dark circles, are commonly associated with the natural contours beneath the eyes.

For example, a fuller lower eyelid may cast a shadow immediately beneath it. A hollow extending from the inner corner of the eye towards the cheek can also create a darker-looking line.

To understand shadow-type circles, it helps to think about the three-dimensional structure of the face.

Our facial appearance is shaped by the bones, muscles, fat, skin, and supporting tissues beneath the surface. The eye area contains particularly delicate and intricate contours.

In their 40s and 50s, some women begin to notice that the area between the lower eyelids and cheeks looks different from how it did in earlier years.

Changes in the skin, the position of fat, and the surrounding support structures may influence the appearance of under-eye hollows and fullness over time.

However, under-eye contours are not determined by age alone. Some people naturally have pronounced hollows from a young age, while others have a fuller eye area throughout adulthood.

One useful term to know is tear trough.

The tear trough refers to a groove or hollow that extends from beneath the inner corner of the eye towards the upper cheek. It is a term often used when discussing facial anatomy and aesthetic treatments.

When light falls across this contour, a shadow may form, giving the appearance of a darker line beneath the eye.

Another distinction worth understanding is the difference between the small fullness immediately beneath the lower eyelashes and what we commonly call under-eye bags.

In Japanese beauty culture, the narrow, softly rounded area just below the lower lashes is often called namidabukuro, literally meaning "tear bag". In English, it may be described as the lower eyelid roll or a subtle under-eye fullness.

This feature can become more noticeable when smiling and is associated with the muscles and other structures around the eyes.

By contrast, under-eye bags generally refer to broader puffiness or fullness beneath the lower eyelids. The position of orbital fat, surrounding support tissues, and temporary fluid retention may all contribute to their appearance.

The distinction is easier to understand when you consider their location: the lower eyelid roll sits close to the eyelashes, while under-eye bags usually involve a wider area beneath them.

For example, someone may notice a small rounded area beneath the lashes when smiling, while another person may have a broader under-eye fullness that remains visible when the face is relaxed.

Some under-eye puffiness can also vary throughout the day. Observing whether fullness appears consistently or changes between morning and evening may offer useful context.

Understanding these natural facial contours can make makeup application more enjoyable.

The raised area beneath the eye and the shadow below it reflect light differently. A thoughtfully placed concealer can be used to adjust the appearance of brightness and contrast.

Recognising your own facial structure can help you make makeup choices that complement your features. In Chapter 7, we will look at practical concealer colours and application techniques for different under-eye appearances.

Chapter 5｜Dark Circles and Lifestyle: Sleep, Puffiness and Everyday Habits

Have you ever looked in the mirror after a late night and thought, "My dark circles seem more noticeable this morning"?

The appearance of the under-eye area can be influenced by more than inherited skin characteristics and facial anatomy. Lack of sleep, temporary puffiness and everyday lifestyle factors may also play a part.

For example, the area beneath your eyes may look slightly fuller when you wake up, then appear different as the day goes on.

Temporary changes in fluid distribution can contribute to puffiness around the eyelids. When a fuller area casts a shadow beneath it, the under-eye region may appear darker, even without a noticeable change in skin pigmentation.

Your evening meal, alcohol consumption and sleeping position may also provide useful context when you think about how your eyes look the following morning.

So, which everyday habits are worth paying attention to?

Start with sleep and your daily routine.

For many adults, around seven to nine hours of sleep is commonly recommended, although individual sleep needs vary. Rather than focusing on the number of hours alone, it can also be helpful to consider the consistency of your sleeping schedule and the comfort of your bedroom.

If your bedtime changes considerably from one day to the next, you might begin by establishing a more regular waking time or setting aside a little quiet time before bed.

Dimming the lights in the evening and making your sleeping environment comfortable are simple ways to create a more relaxing nighttime routine.

Next, consider your everyday eating habits.

Salt plays a role in the body's fluid balance. If you often eat particularly salty meals, it may be worth looking at the overall balance of your diet.

Enjoying a variety of vegetables, fruit, protein-containing foods and other nutritious ingredients is a practical approach to everyday eating.

If you enjoy alcoholic drinks, you may also wish to consider when and how much you drink. Alcohol can influence sleep, so paying attention to how you feel the following morning may help you understand your personal routines.

Staying appropriately hydrated is another part of everyday wellbeing. Your fluid needs depend on factors such as the weather, activity level and individual health circumstances. If you have been given specific medical advice about fluid intake, follow that guidance.

What about mornings when your eyelids look a little puffier than usual?

One gentle approach is to dampen a clean cloth with cool water and place it lightly over your closed eyelids for a short time.

Choose a comfortably cool temperature. Avoid applying ice directly to the skin, pressing firmly or rubbing the delicate eye area.

For those who spend long hours working at a computer or looking at a smartphone, taking regular breaks from close-up screen activities is another worthwhile habit.

You may find it interesting to think back over your routine on days when your under-eye area looks different. A late night, an unusually busy day or a change in eating habits may help you recognise patterns in your everyday life.

Sleep, balanced eating and appropriate hydration are important parts of a healthy lifestyle. Finding realistic habits that fit comfortably into your day is a positive place to begin.

Chapter 6｜Under-Eye Skincare in Your 40s and 50s: Moisturising and Choosing an Eye Cream

As we move through our 40s and 50s, many of us become more interested in finding a skincare routine that feels right for the delicate eye area.

Perhaps you have noticed that the skin beneath your eyes feels drier than it used to. Maybe your concealer settles into fine lines by the afternoon, or you have started to appreciate the comfortable feel of a richer cream.

These everyday experiences often inspire people to explore eye serums, eye creams and other moisturising skincare products.

Some areas of skin around the eyes are particularly thin, and the way they feel can vary with the seasons, your environment and your individual skin characteristics.

There is no single skincare routine that everyone needs at a particular age. Choosing products that suit your current skin condition and personal preferences can be part of the enjoyment of beauty at every stage of life.

One simple place to begin is with moisturising skincare.

Giving the skin moisture and helping protect it from dryness are familiar goals of everyday cosmetic skincare.

For example, you might enjoy a lightweight serum in the morning and a cream with a richer texture as part of your evening routine.

If you wear makeup, you can apply your moisturising products as directed, allow them to settle comfortably on the skin, and then continue with your usual base makeup.

In the evening, removing makeup carefully and spending a few moments applying your chosen skincare products can become an enjoyable part of winding down.

But what is the difference between an eye cream and an ordinary face cream?

Eye creams are generally formulated with use around the eyes in mind. Some facial moisturisers are also suitable for this area, depending on the product and its directions.

Rather than choosing a product by its name alone, look at the recommended application areas, ingredient list, texture and instructions for use.

When browsing moisturising skincare, you may come across ingredients such as glycerin, sodium hyaluronate, squalane and various ceramide-related ingredients.

Glycerin and sodium hyaluronate are well-known cosmetic ingredients with an affinity for water. Products containing oily ingredients such as squalane may offer a rich, comfortable feel, depending on the overall formulation.

However, the way a moisturiser feels is not determined by one ingredient alone. The complete formula, the combination of ingredients and the product's texture all contribute to the experience of using it.

Some people prefer a light, silky serum that blends easily into their morning routine. Others enjoy taking their time with a creamy moisturiser in the evening.

Fragrance, packaging and ease of application can also influence your choice. After all, skincare products are something many of us use every day, so finding products you genuinely enjoy matters.

If you are exploring new moisturising skincare, you may also enjoy discovering beauty brands from New Zealand.

At Brilliant Life Products NZ, we offer the Ninety Nature LAVENDER RADIANCE skincare collection.

The LAVENDER RADIANCE collection includes lotions, serums, an eye cream and facial creams, offering a selection of products to explore as part of your everyday skincare routine.

If you would like to give your under-eye skincare a little more attention, you might begin by exploring the eye cream, checking its ingredients, texture and recommended application instructions.

You can also consider how different products might fit alongside the toner, serum or moisturiser you already enjoy using.

For those interested in moisturising skincare for the face, Brilliant Life Products NZ also offers products from LANOCREME.

Exploring the different textures, product descriptions and recommended uses of these New Zealand skincare ranges can be an enjoyable way to discover something suited to your preferences.

When applying products near the eyes, always follow the directions and use an appropriate amount. Treat the surrounding skin gently without pulling or rubbing.

Skincare in your 40s and 50s does not need to follow a rigid set of rules. Choosing comfortable, enjoyable products that suit your skin and lifestyle can make your daily beauty routine feel more personal.

Chapter 7｜How to Cover Dark Circles With Concealer: Choosing Colours and Applying Makeup Naturally

When dark circles are part of your everyday beauty concerns, concealer offers a creative way to adjust the appearance of the under-eye area.

However, a lighter concealer does not automatically create a more natural finish. Choosing the right shade and applying it in the right place can make a real difference to the look of your makeup.

For example, peach or orange-toned concealers are often considered for bluish or purplish areas, while beige shades that blend with the complexion may be useful for brown-toned areas.

When a dark appearance comes mainly from an under-eye hollow, the placement of the concealer can be just as important as its colour.

The table below offers a simple starting point for exploring different makeup options.

Once you have chosen a shade, the next step is deciding how and where to apply it.

Start with a small amount rather than covering the entire under-eye area.

Applying concealer only where it is needed can sometimes create a softer, more natural-looking finish than spreading a thick layer across the whole area.

For example, if you notice a fuller area beneath your lower eyelid, look at the darker boundary immediately below it.

You may prefer to place a small amount of concealer near this shadow and blend the edges gently into the surrounding makeup.

Next, consider the texture of your concealer.

Concealers come in liquid, cream and stick formats, with many different finishes and levels of coverage.

A liquid concealer may appeal to someone who enjoys a lightweight makeup look, while a cream formula may suit someone who prefers to apply colour precisely to smaller areas.

For women in their 40s and 50s, the way makeup sits around fine lines can be an important part of choosing a product.

The under-eye area moves when we smile, blink and change our expression. Heavy layers of concealer may collect in fine lines as the day goes on.

Starting with a small amount and adding more only when needed can help you find a finish that suits your preferences.

Different makeup tools also offer different ways to apply concealer.

You might gently blend with clean fingertips, use a small brush for precise placement, or soften the edges with a makeup sponge.

There is no single technique that suits every person. The most enjoyable part of experimenting with makeup is discovering how different methods work with your natural features.

Lighting matters too.

A concealer shade that looks perfectly natural in bathroom lighting may appear slightly lighter or more noticeable outdoors.

If possible, check your finished makeup in soft, natural-looking light to see how the colour blends with the rest of your complexion.

Before applying any colour corrector close to the eyes, check that the product is intended for use in that area. Avoid getting cosmetics into the eyes and follow the manufacturer's instructions.

Concealer is more than a way to cover a darker-looking area. It is also a creative tool for working with light, colour and the natural contours of your face. Exploring shades and textures that suit you can make everyday makeup more enjoyable.

Chapter 8｜Dark Circles and Eye Health: When Should You Seek Medical Advice?

For many people, dark circles are part of their natural skin characteristics and facial appearance.

However, it is important to distinguish familiar under-eye features from new or unexpected changes that may involve the skin or eyes themselves.

For example, swelling that appears suddenly or a noticeable change affecting only one side may deserve medical assessment, particularly when it is unusual for you.

Persistent redness, itching, flaking or discomfort around the eyelids may sometimes be associated with skin conditions such as contact dermatitis.

DermNet New Zealand explains that eyelid contact dermatitis may involve contact with various substances, including cosmetics and cleansing products.

If redness or irritation develops after trying a new cosmetic product, stop using it and seek advice from a healthcare professional when appropriate.

Changes involving the eyes themselves also deserve attention. Eye pain or changes in vision should be assessed by an appropriate healthcare professional. Sudden loss of vision or severe eye pain requires urgent medical attention.

For everyday beauty routines, follow cosmetic product instructions, use products only on their recommended application areas, and handle the delicate skin around the eyes with care.

Understanding your own features, while knowing when a new symptom deserves professional advice, is a thoughtful way to enjoy skincare and makeup while looking after your overall wellbeing.

Q1. Do dark circles under the eyes mean I might have anaemia?

Dark circles alone cannot tell you whether you have anaemia. Anaemia may involve various symptoms and is assessed through appropriate medical evaluation, sometimes including blood tests. If you experience persistent unusual tiredness, breathlessness or dizziness, speak with a healthcare professional.

Q2. Should I keep my eye cream in the refrigerator?

The best storage conditions depend on the product. Unless refrigeration is specifically recommended, follow the manufacturer's instructions on the packaging. Check any guidance about temperature, direct sunlight and storage after opening.

Q3. Can I use eye cream if I wear contact lenses?

Choose products that are suitable for use around the eyes and take care to keep cosmetics away from the eyeball and contact lenses. Follow the instructions for both your lenses and skincare products, including any recommendations about the order of application. If you experience discomfort, seek advice from an eye care professional.

Q4. How long can I use a concealer after opening it?

The recommended period depends on the formulation, packaging and storage conditions. Check the product label for any expiry date or period-after-opening guidance. If the smell, colour or texture changes unexpectedly, avoid continuing to use the product.

Q5. Is it okay to share eye makeup with family members?

For hygiene reasons, it is best to keep eye cosmetics for individual use. Avoid sharing products such as mascara and eyeliner, and keep makeup brushes and applicators clean. Taking care of your beauty tools is an important part of everyday cosmetic hygiene.

Dark circles under the eyes can have several different appearances, commonly described in beauty discussions as blue, brown, black or shadow-type, and red circles.

Their appearance may be influenced by pigmentation, visible blood vessels, facial contours and other individual characteristics.

Noticing the colour, the way shadows fall and any changes throughout the day can help you understand your own under-eye features.

If dryness is part of your skincare concerns, you can explore moisturising products suitable for the eye area. If you would like to adjust the appearance of colour or shadows, makeup offers plenty of creative options.

By choosing skincare and makeup products that suit your preferences, you can make everyday beauty routines a comfortable and enjoyable part of looking after yourself.

This article has been independently written for general readers, drawing on publicly available information from dermatology, ophthalmology and healthcare organisations. It is intended for educational beauty and skincare purposes.

1. DermNet New Zealand｜Dark Circles Under the Eyes

Information about pigmentation, visible blood vessels, skin characteristics, facial anatomy and shadows beneath the eyes.
DermNet New Zealand

2. American Academy of Ophthalmology｜How to Get Rid of Bags Under the Eyes

Background information about under-eye bags, age-related changes and the tissues surrounding the lower eyelids.
American Academy of Ophthalmology

3. Cleveland Clinic｜Dark Circles Under Eyes

General medical information about possible causes of under-eye dark circles, including age, genetics, allergies and lifestyle factors.
Cleveland Clinic

4. DermNet New Zealand｜Eyelid Contact Dermatitis

Dermatological information about eyelid contact dermatitis and the substances that may come into contact with the eyelid area.
DermNet New Zealand

5. U.S. Food and Drug Administration｜Eye Cosmetic Safety

Guidance on eye cosmetic hygiene, product sharing and appropriate cosmetic use around the eyes.
U.S. Food and Drug Administration

6. National Health Service｜Eyelid Problems

Public healthcare information about eyelid swelling, discomfort and changes that may require medical attention.
UK National Health Service