What causes dark circles under the eyes despite not staying up late?

Many people in daily life neglect adequate rest, leading to eye fatigue and the development of prominent dark circles. This issue warrants sufficient attention—avoiding excessive fatigue can help reduce the occurrence of dark circles. However, some individuals develop dark circles even without staying up late. So, what causes severe dark circles in people who do not stay up late?

Causes of Severe Dark Circles Without Sleep Deprivation

Severe dark circles beneath the eyes in non–sleep-deprived individuals are typically attributable to the following causes: First, bleeding beneath the orbital area or eyelids may cause dark circles. Trauma is a common cause; rubbing the eyes or coagulation disorders may also contribute. This type of dark circle appears suddenly and gradually fades over time, usually resolving spontaneously within about two weeks. Second, dark circles caused by pigmented nevi (moles) on the eyelid skin result from an abundance of pigment granules within the skin cells. These are present from birth and show no significant change over time. Dark circles resulting from orbital hemangiomas arise from congenital vascular maldevelopment; they tend to worsen rapidly under conditions such as emotional excitement or head-down positions (e.g., inversion).

Severe dark circles beneath the eyes may also stem from diminished metabolic function and age-related pigment accumulation. In clinical settings, laser therapy can effectively treat such dark circles. Laser treatment acts on the skin to break down excess pigment deposits, enabling their natural elimination from the body. Thus, lasers can successfully remove dark circles under the eyes. For severe cases, 3–4 laser sessions may be required. Optimal results are achieved when the second session is scheduled one month after the first. Following laser treatment, avoid consuming coffee or onions.

We recommend increasing intake of nutrient-rich foods—especially vitamin C—and consuming light, flavorful meals. Adequate rest is also essential. We hope this information proves helpful to you.