Pregnancy is a difficult time. While it is a beautiful experience, it comes with many challenges. Different physiological alterations take place during this time. Skin changes are common, particularly under eye pigmentation or dark circles. We asked Dr Priyanka Kuri, Consultant-Dermatology, Aster Whitefield Hospital, Bengaluru, to shed light on the underlying causes and ways it can be treated.
What Causes Under Eye Dark Circles In Pregnant Women?
Under-eye dark circles can appear in different shades, ranging from a light blue or purple to a darker brown or black. It is caused by increased blood vessel visibility or pigmentation under the thin skin around your eyes. It may have various underlying causes, which may vary from one person to another, says Dr Kuri. Let’s take a look at some of the common causes of dark circles in pregnant women.
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Genetics can be one of the leading factors that leads a person with even a disciplined lifestyle to get affected by an under-eye circle as they acquire it through genes.
Hormonal fluctuations that occur during menstruation, pregnancy, menopause, or puberty affect the blood flow in the body, which can result in pigmentation in the under-eye area. Pregnancy ramps up production of oestrogen and progesterone, which can affect skin pigmentation and lead to dark circles under the eyes.
Inadequate sleep and fatigue are other important causes; lack of proper rest leads to dilation of blood vessels and darkening of the under-eye region.
Factors associated with age, such as decreased collagen production, fat loss, and skin thinning.
According to a study published in the Journal of Clinical and Aesthetic Dermatology, under-eye pigmentation can also occur due to:
- Allergies, including hay fever
- Hyperpigmentation, which happens when the body produces more melanin
- Reduced levels of fatty tissue around the eyes
- Iron deficiency anaemia
- Overexposure to sunlight
- Frequent rubbing of the eyes
- Smoking
- Thyroid conditions
- Dehydration
- Dermatitis
- Eye drop treatments for glaucoma, including bimatoprost and latanoprost
How To Treat Under-Eye Dark Circles During Pregnancy?
Preventing and treating under-eye dark circles involves a combined approach of using home remedies along with scientific methods, says Dr Kuri.
Preventive measures include:
- Managing stress and anxiety
- Getting enough sleep,
- Managing issues related to sinuses and allergies
- Staying hydrated
- Using sunscreen with the required amount of Sun Protection Factor (SPF)
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Treatments include:
- Using ingredients like vitamin C, retinol, and caffeine
- Limiting the intake of alcohol
- Quitting smoking cigarettes
- Eating a balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals
Certain home remedies include:
- Cucumber treatment for eyes as it is rich in Vitamin K
- Using tea bags on the eyes as it has caffeine and antioxidants that shrink blood vessels
- A cold compress helps reduce puffiness
- Potato slices
- Hydrating eye masks
- Almond oil massages
- Maintaining the head in an elevated position
While pregnant women can take all these measures to manage and prevent under-eye dark circles, seeking help from a healthcare professional is advised if it worsens or persists.
Conclusion
Anyone can develop dark circles. These can be attributed to stress, poor sleep, an unhealthy diet, smoking, and other factors, including genetics and certain medical conditions. While these are harmless, they’re usually unappealing and can cause a cycle of stress and anxiety. Pregnant women are particularly at risk of dark circles. One of the primary reasons is hormonal changes. Additionally, increased blood volume during pregnancy can cause blood vessels to dilate and become more noticeable, especially in the under-eye area.