Often associated with lack of sleep, fatigue or stress, dark circles under the eyes may also be linked to allergies, anemia and certain other health conditions. Particular attention is recommended when they appear suddenly, become persistent or occur alongside other symptoms.

The skin around the eyes is considerably thinner and more delicate than on other areas of the face. As a result, blood vessels, changes in pigmentation and differences in circulation can make dark circles under the eyes appear more pronounced. Although lack of sleep, stress and lifestyle habits are among the most common causes, in some cases dark circles may be linked to underlying health conditions. Dark circles alone are generally not a sign of serious illness. However, if they appear suddenly, persist for a long time, become increasingly noticeable or occur alongside other symptoms, specialist evaluation is recommended to determine the underlying cause.

Allergies Can Affect The Eye Area
Nasal congestion caused by allergies and changes in circulation around the eyes can make bluish-purple dark circles under the eyes more noticeable. This may occur particularly with environmental or food-related allergies, while genetic predisposition can also play a role. When dark circles are accompanied by watery, red and itchy eyes, sneezing, nasal congestion, or itching in the throat or palate, an allergic cause may be suspected. Although allergy-related dark circles generally do not indicate a serious health problem, seeking specialist advice may be beneficial if they persist.

Anemia May Also Be a Cause
Anemia can make the skin appear paler and dark circles under the eyes more noticeable because insufficient oxygen reaches the tissues. Particularly in anemia associated with iron or vitamin B12 deficiency, dark circles may be accompanied by other symptoms such as fatigue, dizziness, paleness and shortness of breath. In this case, rather than starting vitamin or mineral supplements without medical advice, it is important to have the deficiency and its cause evaluated by a physician.

Dark Circles May Also Occur With Thyroid Problems
An underactive or overactive thyroid can affect the body’s metabolic balance, causing various changes in the skin and around the eyes. A dark appearance under the eyes alone is not an indicator of thyroid disease; however, it may require evaluation when accompanied by other symptoms.

Kidney Health and The Eye Area
Impaired kidney function can affect the body’s fluid and electrolyte balance. The resulting fluid retention and edema may cause puffiness and a darker appearance around the delicate eye area. If changes around the eyes are accompanied by other symptoms such as pronounced edema, persistent fatigue or changes in urinary habits, consulting a healthcare professional is important.

September 2026