Eeek! Worried about red circles under eyes? Worry is a normal reaction but, red circles are not normal but, don’t panic. There are many reasons for developing this condition, aging and dehydration under eyes among them. So, when you want immediate relief, don’t go experimenting with possible remedies and medications just yet. Don’t run because there is so much more you need to know about the causes of red circles, how you can treat these, and prevent the same from showing up again in the future. 

What causes red circles? 

Natural differences in skin tone and pigmentation are possible root causes of red circles. However, if you haven’t had them before, it should set off an alarm and you should pay more attention so you can address it immediately if you think there’s more to your red circles than just skin color. Listed below are some of the most common reasons why red circles under eyes appear, signs and symptoms to let you determine the root cause, and advice on what you can do to make it go away soon: 

Allergies

Allergies come in many forms. It could be a temporary allergy attack, mostly due to food, dust mites and pollution, and hives which can be caused by extreme weather changes and small particles in the air. The root cause may also be atopic dermatitis which is a lifelong skin condition characterized by a weak protective barrier that makes skin chronically dry and irritated. 

Signs and symptoms: Usually, when you have allergies, you already know what may have caused it and, chances are, you no longer would be shocked to find red circles on your eye area. However, allergies can also develop over time and, thus, you cannot discount the possibility that the cause of your skin problem is an allergy even though you’re not aware you have any. Try to avoid your triggers now and in the future. 

As for atopic dermatitis, the most common symptom is growing flaky, red or black skin on the joints and under the eyes. The condition may become manifest as early as infancy or, lie dormant for many years only to show up later in life. 

Treatment options: Allergies usually go away on their own. If you cannot help but itch, however, you may take an antihistamine or, soothe your skin with calamine lotion. There is no treatment available for contact dermatitis but, there are several things that you can try to manage your skin condition better, starting with keeping your skin moisturized. Use a specially formulated lotion, ointment or cream designed for people with contact dermatitis. You should also refrain from drying out the sweat on your skin and missing out on quality sleep. 

Dehydration

Dehydrated skin can also weaken and irritate the delicate skin around your eye area. People who are older are more susceptible to this condition. If you’re neither taking good care of your skin nor filling up with liquids, this could become your problem too. 

Signs and symptoms: Flaky, crepey skin that makes you look older than you really are.

Treatment options: A good moisturizer and a comprehensive sun care strategy will aid you under these circumstances. You should also seriously consider a lifestyle change. Your skin will look as healthy as the food you eat when you do. 

Aging

Skin naturally thins out with age. It so happens that skin is at its thinnest around your eye area and you need to take extra care.

Signs and symptoms: Other than your age, noticing wrinkles, age spots and other visible signs of skin aging on your face and elsewhere on your skin should make you conclude that your skin is aging. 

Treatment options: Get on a skincare regimen that matches your mature skin, one that includes ingredients like antioxidants and ceramides but also complemented by healthier lifestyle changes. It is time to drink less and cut that cigarette. 

Blepharitis

This is a bacterial infection that commonly affects people who chronically suffer from seborrheic dermatitis (dandruff) and those who have excessively oily skin. 

Signs and symptoms: This is a skin condition characterized by swelling and flaky skin manifesting on and around your bottom eyelid. It may also be caused by clogged oil glands on your eyelids, rosacea, and small particles in the air or polluted surroundings. 

Treatment options: It usually just goes away on its own, although you have to improve your personal hygiene. You should see your healthcare provider right away when symptoms are severe to avoid complications that may even cause damage to your eye tissue. 

Cellulitis

This is a bacterial infection which usually affects only one eye. However, the infection can go straight into your bloodstream and affect other organs. It may not look much to cause panic right away but, this condition requires immediate attention and you should schedule a visit with your healthcare provider as soon as possible. 

Signs and symptoms: Cleanse your eye area and clear it of any product residue. Do not rub. Avoid getting your eyes into contact with any foreign body. Refrain from applying makeup and spreading other personal care products around the eye area. 

Treatment options. Once diagnosed, your healthcare provider may prescribe an antibiotic treatment course. In severe cases, you may be admitted to a hospital. 

Stress

This can easily make you lose out on a good night’s sleep. Stressing out as well as straining your eyes too much can also lead to broken capillaries. When this happens, fluids leak out to fill spaces around your eyes where it gets stuck. 

Signs and symptoms: Your blood’s natural pigment rubs off on the underside of your skin, giving it a reddish, purplish to blackish color. 

Treatment options: You should sleep. Turn on some soft music and turn down the lights. Get yourself a massage or, better yet, schedule a vacation to break away from your everyday routine.

Conclusion 

Red circles can bother you because of its bad appearance but, know the underlying cause for your condition is a must because it can and will harm your health if you take it lightly. Now you know what to do.