What causes dark spots on the corners of the eyes, and how to deal with them?

Under normal circumstances, eye corner spots may be caused by factors such as ultraviolet (UV) radiation, poor lifestyle habits, excessive stress, hepatitis, or hyperlipidemia. Treatments such as photorejuvenation, laser therapy, chemical peels, or medication can be used under the guidance of a doctor. It is recommended to visit a reputable hospital and undergo procedures under medical supervision to ensure effectiveness and safety. Specific analysis is as follows:

1. UV Radiation

Long-term exposure to sunlight may promote melanin production and deposition, leading to pigmentation in sensitive areas such as the corners of the eyes. It is advisable to apply sunscreen with a high SPF when going outdoors to reduce UV damage. Photorejuvenation treatment may also be performed under a doctor's guidance. This method uses intense pulsed light to selectively destroy pigment particles in the skin, thereby lightening dark spots and improving skin texture. The typical reference cost for photorejuvenation is 500–2,000 yuan per session. Improvement is usually seen within 7–10 days, although side effects such as itching and redness may occur.

2. Poor Lifestyle Habits

Poor habits such as chronic sleep deprivation, unbalanced diet, and lack of physical activity may lead to the accumulation of toxins and waste products in the skin, resulting in pigmentation around the eye corners. It is recommended to maintain healthy lifestyle habits, eat a balanced diet, exercise regularly, and avoid prolonged late-night hours. Laser therapy, guided by a physician, may also be considered. This treatment uses laser energy to break down melanin particles in the pigmented areas, allowing the body to absorb and metabolize them, thus removing the spots. The typical reference cost for laser therapy ranges from 1,000 to 5,000 yuan per session. Noticeable improvement generally appears within 1–3 days, though side effects such as swelling and blisters may occur.

3. Excessive Stress

Excessive mental stress may disrupt the body’s endocrine system, affecting normal melanin metabolism and leading to pigmentation at the eye corners. It is important to manage stress appropriately through activities such as exercise, meditation, or listening to music to relax both mind and body. Chemical peels, performed under medical advice, can also help. These use products containing alpha-hydroxy acids (such as glycolic acid, lactic acid, or salicylic acid) to accelerate epidermal cell turnover and reduce pigmentation. The typical reference price for chemical peels is 200–1,000 yuan per session, with visible improvement usually occurring within 1–2 weeks. Possible side effects include redness, swelling, and scabbing.

4. Hepatitis

Hepatitis may be triggered by factors such as excessive alcohol consumption, bacterial, or viral infections. It can impair the body’s normal metabolic and detoxification functions, leading to melanin deposition in the eye area and causing pigmentation. Symptoms often include jaundice, fatigue, and liver region pain. Under medical guidance, medications such as entecavir tablets, compound glycyrrhizin tablets, or ursodeoxycholic acid capsules may be prescribed for treatment.

5. Hyperlipidemia

Hyperlipidemia is commonly associated with excessive fat intake or abnormal lipoprotein metabolism. Elevated blood lipid levels may cause lipid deposits in the skin around the eyes, leading to the symptoms described. Treatment may include medications such as amlodipine atorvastatin calcium tablets, simvastatin capsules, or fenofibrate capsules, taken as directed by a physician.

In daily life, it is important to strengthen sun protection to minimize UV damage to the skin. Using skincare products suitable for one’s skin type to maintain hydration and smoothness can also help support overall skin health.