Dark circles are easily one of the biggest complexion concerns regardless of age, genetics, lifestyle, or skin type. At the same time, they’re also one of the trickiest to understand. You may notice them after a late night, during a particularly stressful season, or simply as part of your natural bone structure and genetics. Figuring out how to get rid of dark circles can feel like skin-mission impossible, but there are ways to outsmart this shadowy-looking nuisance.
We’ll be real with you, though. While you may not be able to erase dark circles entirely, there are small habits and targeted skincare rituals that can help improve the look of this delicate under-eye area. Up ahead, we’ll answer the common question—what actually causes dark circles? How can you make them less noticeable?—and offer expert-backed ways to support brighter, more refreshed-looking skin.
Why Do I Have Dark Circles Under My Eyes?
Dark circles don’t have a single cause. They often reflect a mix of genetics, bone structure, lifestyle habits, or natural changes in skin density over time. Factors like stress, allergies, screen time, and fluid retention can also affect how shadowed the under-eye area appears. Pinpointing what’s behind your dark circles is the first step toward improving their look.
Genetics and Natural Structure
Some people naturally have a deeper tear trough or thinner skin beneath the eyes, which can cast visible shadows even when they’re well-rested. In these cases, dark circles are often inherited rather than caused by skincare issues.
Lack of Sleep, Stress, and Circulation
Fatigue and ongoing stress are a big contributor to a tired or hollow look, notes the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD). Stress hormones can also affect skin tone and puffiness in the under-eye area.
Dehydration and Nutrition
When hydration or nutrient levels are low (or if sodium is high) your skin may appear dull or more shadowed. In fact, the AAD says that "one of the signs of dehydration is sunken-looking skin around the eyes." Proper hydration and a nutrient-dense diet can help support overall skin vitality, including around the eyes.
Age-Related Structural Changes
As collagen levels, fat reserves, and bone density naturally decline over time, the delicate eye area may appear thinner or more hollow. Per the Mayo Clinic, light reflects differently on aging skin, which can emphasize dark circles.
Allergies, Irritation, and Rubbing
Allergic reactions and frequent rubbing around your eyes can irritate this delicate skin. This causes your under eyes to swell and can break blood vessels, resulting in dark circles, explains the Cleveland Clinic. Even seasonal allergies can play a role in how dark circles appear from week to week.
Lifestyle Factors and Screen Time
Extended screen use, UV exposure, and daily habits—such as smoking, drinking, or sleeping on your face—can contribute to dark circles gradually. Tiny lifestyle adjustments sometimes make a noticeable difference.
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Can You Actually Get Rid of Dark Circles?
Dark circles can be stubborn, and in many cases, you may not be able to make them disappear entirely. However, you can help improve their appearance by addressing the underlying factors and supporting the health of the delicate under-eye skin. Small lifestyle changes, hydration, stress-relieving rituals, and targeted skincare ingredients can all play a role in making dark circles look lighter, brighter, and less pronounced over time.
How to Improve the Look of Dark Circles
The best approach depends on what’s contributing to your dark circles, but a combination of lifestyle habits, gentle skincare steps, and circulation support can make a noticeable difference. Many people find that with consistent care (even small adjustments) under-eye skin begins to look brighter, calmer, and more refreshed. Let’s go over some expert-backed ways to reduce the visible appearance of dark circles over time.
Get Strategic With Sleep and Stress
A consistent sleep routine helps the body regulate fluid balance and circulation, both of which can influence how dark circles appear. According to the National Sleep Foundation, adults who sleep fewer than seven hours per night may experience duller skin and a greater tendency for puffiness around the eyes.
Also, exercise, breathwork, or short mindfulness breaks throughout the day may also help reduce stress-related skin changes. Many people pair these practices with a calming skincare ritual, such as using KNESKO’s Luxe Eye Mask Kit that includes a meditation from founder and Reiki master Lejla Cas.
Hydrate and Support Nutrition
Proper hydration can help skin appear smoother and minimize the appearance of dark circles. The USDA recommends water intake that aligns with activity level, climate, and diet (especially when sodium is high). Skin-supportive foods rich in antioxidants and minerals, such as leafy greens, berries, and omega-3 sources, may further help support overall skin vitality.
Use Targeted Skincare Ingredients
Look for ingredients shown to help improve the look of dark circles and tired eyes. These ingredients are often found in face serums, lightweight creams, and collagen eye masks that deliver concentrated benefits in a short amount of time.
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Caffeine: Can help temporarily constrict blood vessels and reduce puffiness. Learn more about how caffeine visibly tightens skin.
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Peptides: Support firmer-feeling skin. They’re commonly included in repairing or collagen-focused formulas, such as KNESKO’s Gold Repair collection, which uses a peptide-rich approach to support smoother and more resilient-looking skin.
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Hyaluronic acid: This hydrating ingredient is an all-star humectant that draws moisture to your skin. In return, it visibly plumps and smooths to reduce the appearance of dark circles.
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Niacinamide: A multitasking skincare ingredient, niacinamide (vitamin B3) supports the skin barrier and promotes a more balanced-looking complexion. When used consistently, niacinamide can help the under-eye area appear brighter and more refined.
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Vitamin C: this ingredient defends against free radical damage. Many people use vitamin C in the morning paired with hydrating rituals—like with KNESKO’s Rose Quartz collection, which combines brightening antioxidants with calming gemstone energy.
When to See a Dermatologist
If your dark circles worsen, appear suddenly, or are accompanied by swelling or discomfort, a visit with your doctor is recommended. A dermatologist may help determine whether pigmentation, allergies, or another underlying cause is contributing. And a general practitioner can identify any underlying causes, too. Professional treatments may be recommended, but even then, daily skincare and hydration habits still play an important role in supporting the under-eye area.
Final Thoughts
Dark circles are very common and often multifactorial, which means they don’t always disappear overnight. But with a little consistency, hydration, and thoughtful skincare rituals, the delicate under-eye area can begin to look calmer, brighter, and more refreshed.
Even the smallest moments of care—like a few deep breaths or a nourishing mask—can support the overall look and feel of the skin. If you’re ready to elevate your routine, explore our range of collagen eye masks. Each hydrogel mask is infused with collagen, gemstones, and Reiki energy to help awaken tired eyes while creating space for stillness.
