Discover the latest aesthetic medicine techniques that refresh your eyes and deliver lasting results
Dark circles and under-eye bags don’t have a single cause. In most cases, they result from a combination of lifestyle factors, genetics, and skin biology.
According to aesthetic medicine specialists, the most common causes include:
• Thin, Delicate Skin
The skin under the eyes is naturally thinner than the rest of the face. As we age, it becomes even more transparent, making blood vessels and pigmentation more visible, which creates a darker appearance.
• Genetics and Skin Tone
For many people—especially those with medium to deeper skin tones—genetics play a role. Increased melanin production can cause persistent dark pigmentation that doesn’t disappear with rest alone.
• Fat Loss and Hollowing
Loss of fat and collagen beneath the eyes can create sunken areas, casting shadows that look like dark circles even when the skin itself is healthy.
• Poor Circulation
Slow blood flow under the eyes can lead to bluish or purplish tones, especially noticeable in people who are sleep-deprived or under chronic stress.
• Fluid Retention and Inflammation
Under-eye bags are often caused by fluid buildup, which may worsen due to high-sodium diets, allergies, hormonal changes, or lack of sleep.
• Lifestyle Stressors
Long work hours, extended screen time, dehydration, smoking, and inconsistent sleep—common challenges for many working adults—can all accelerate under-eye aging.
For many people, dark circles and bags under the eyes affect not just appearance, but also confidence. The good news: modern aesthetic medicine offers advanced solutions that don’t require surgery and provide visible, long-lasting results.
“The skin around the eyes is one of the most delicate areas of the face, and even small external factors or unhealthy habits can cause damage,” explains Dr. María Jesús García-Dihinx, a specialist in Plastic, Aesthetic, and Reconstructive Surgery at Quirónsalud Day Hospital Zaragoza.
Here are three of the most effective and safe treatments to reduce dark circles and under-eye bags:
1. Dark Circle Peeling: Skin Renewal
A targeted peeling for dark circles uses controlled chemical exfoliants to remove the outer layers of skin, leaving the area smoother, more uniform, and luminous.
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Benefits: improves skin texture, hydrates, and prevents imperfections
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Duration: usually requires one or more sessions depending on the case
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Post-care: avoid sun exposure for at least two weeks to prevent discoloration
“It is an effective treatment but must only be performed by certified aesthetic medicine professionals. The chemicals used can harm the skin if applied incorrectly,” warns Dr. García-Dihinx.
2. Hyaluronic Acid: Quick and Lasting Results
Hyaluronic acid injections fill the area under the skin, rehydrating it and visually correcting dark circles and hollow under-eyes.
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Results: noticeable in just two days
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Number of sessions: 1 to 3 interventions
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Duration: 1 to 2 years, depending on metabolism and post-treatment care
“Hyaluronic acid can effectively mask visible blood vessels and soften the appearance of hollow eyes with minimal application,” explains the specialist.
3. Lymphatic Drainage: Reduce Bags and Fluid Retention
Lymphatic drainage massage gently stimulates circulation and eliminates accumulated fluids, a common cause of under-eye bags.
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Benefits: improves blood flow, reduces swelling, and brightens the eyes
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Procedure: non-invasive, using specialized oils or creams
“Lymphatic drainage helps remove the fluids and toxins that contribute to visible under-eye issues,” notes Dr. García-Dihinx.
Choosing the Right Treatment
Every face and skin type is unique. Dr. García-Dihinx recommends personalized consultations at certified aesthetic medicine centers to assess the cause of dark circles or eye bags and determine the most effective treatment.
“There is no universal solution. The key is combining safety, professional expertise, and follow-up care to achieve visible and long-lasting results,” she concludes.
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