Eyelid Aesthetics26 July 2026

Dark circles under the eyes — causes and treatment

By Dr. Mahmoud Mohamed Rashed — Consultant Ophthalmic Surgeon

Dark circles under the eyes are one of the most common concerns for women and men in Alexandria. The trouble is most trending fixes (creams, home remedies) treat the symptom without addressing the true cause. Here we explain the different causes and how the right treatment is chosen.

Causes of dark circles

  • Genetics and skin pigmentation: some people have naturally more pigment under the eye — the fix here is different.
  • Structural hollowing: under-eye fat can decrease over time, creating shadows.
  • Puffiness and laxity: even with normal pigment, they cast a shadow.
  • Sleep loss and screen fatigue: dilate blood vessels, making the area look darker.
  • Allergy and dryness: lead to itching and inflammation, darkening the skin over time.

Temporary fixes (and their limits)

Cold compresses, enough sleep, hydration, and vitamin C or retinol creams help in mild cases — but they don't address structural or genetic causes.

Medical and surgical options

  • Fillers restore volume when hollowing is the cause — lasting 6 months to a year.
  • Laser or peels help fade surface pigmentation over several sessions.
  • Lower-lid surgery addresses persistent laxity or puffiness with results lasting years.

A specialist decides the right combination after an assessment.

Read more about the eyelid aesthetics service or about Dr. Mahmoud Rashed.

Medical note: this article is for awareness; the right plan is determined by a specialist after examination.

Continue with Dr. Rashed

Helpful links to explore before you decide.

Book your consultation with Dr. Rashed

If the area around your eyes bothers you, the right first step is an exam — so you understand your case before any decision.

El Shatby – 20 Port Said St., opposite Beit El Talibat, 1st floor, Alexandria

Sun 7–9 PM · Tue 2–4 PM · Thu 7–9 PM (WhatsApp anytime).