The skin under your eyes can be dark and hollow. sunken eyes are usually a result of aging, dehydration, or not getting enough sleep, but they could also be a symptom of a medical condition. Learn about the causes of sunken eyes, the treatment options, and how you can ease them with simple home remedies.

When you look in a mirror, you will probably notice sunken eyes. The exact appearance may differ from person to person, but sunken eyes are often described in the following ways.

  • A hollowing under your eyes.
  • A dark shadow over your eyes.
  • dark circles under your eyes
  • The skin under your eyes is thin.
  • A tired look on your face.

Sunken eyes can be called “tear trough hollows” or “under-eye hollows.” Most people will notice sunken and dark eyes by their late 30s and early 40s, since dark circles are a result of aging.

Sunken eyes can be a cause. It is not considered a medical problem most of the time.

Aging

We lose bone density and fat around our bodies as we get older. The supporting structures that hold everything together are declining. The skin becomes thinner and translucent. The face is hollowed around the eyes.

Dramatic weight loss

Fat loss comes from all areas of your body, including your face, when you lose a lot of weight. A dramatic loss of fat in the face can make the blood vessels around your eyes more transparent.

Genetics

Genetics affect the position of your eyes. It could be part of your genes if other members of your family have sunken or darkened eyes.

Lack of sleep

“Poor-quality sleep is a problem in today’s society. Getting less than 7 hours of sleep can affect your appearance.”

Dehydration

Lack of proper hydration can lead to sunken eyes, especially in children. Children are particularly susceptible to dehydration caused by stomach viruses and bacteria. If your child has sunken eyes, along with diarrhea and vomiting, see a doctor. This could be a symptom of serious dehydration. Other symptoms of dehydration include excessive thirst, low urine output, and dry mouth. Severe dehydration can cause lethargy or decreased responsiveness.

Sun exposure

Sun exposure causes our bodies to produce a substance called melanin. Sun exposure can make your skin darker if you already have dark skin under your eyes. Darkened circles under the eyes can make them look hollow.

Allergies

Allergic rhinitis, also called hay fever or seasonal allergies, can cause dark circles to form under your eyes and give them a sunken look. This is often referred to as “allergic shiners.” People with allergies may also rub or scratch the skin around the eyes, leading to irritation. Other symptoms of allergies include nasal congestion, sneezing, and itchy eyes and throat.

Sinus infections

Inflammation of the sinuses or an infection called sinusitis can make your eyes appear dark and sunken. Pressure, pain, and nasal congestion are other symptoms of a sinus infection. You should see a doctor if you think you have a sinus infection.

Smoking

Smoking causes your skin to lose elasticity. This can cause sagging skin on your face and sunken eyes.

If your sunken eyes get worse over time despite your attempts to get better sleep and drink more water, you may want to see a doctor.

Your doctor will take a medical history and look at your face at your appointment. They will want to know about your medication and how long the sunken eyes have been a problem. If you have recently lost weight, or if you have any other symptoms such as itchy eyes, be sure to tell your doctor.

Your doctor may order lab tests to try to determine what is causing your sunken eyes.

Having sunken eyes as a result of aging or genetics isn’t dangerous and shouldn’t cause any other problems. Negative changes to someone’s appearance, however, can trigger emotional reactions. Poor self-esteem and lower confidence can eventually lead to depression or anxiety.

Sunken eyes can be treated with medication. Administering over-the-counter drugs can help reduce allergy symptoms. Sometimes antibiotics are needed to cure a problem.

Lifestyle changes and home remedies

Try the following to help with sunken eyes.

  • You should get enough sleep to make you feel refreshed the next morning.
  • A quality sunscreen is a must.
  • Apply almond oil, which a 2022 study suggests might improve complexion and skin tone.
  • Tea is rich in vitamins and promotes blood circulation.
  • Take two slices of cucumber and put them on your eyes for 10 to 20 minutes to make them less irritated.
  • Apply cold cold.
  • Sun protection, including sunscreen, sunglasses, and hats, is required when you go outside.
  • Drink enough water.
  • Too much coffee is not good.
  • Eat dark green vegetables.
  • Smoking is a bad habit to quit.
  • Take care when applying makeup. To make sure that your makeup sticks, use a hydrating cream before applying it. Then apply a yellow base that is lighter than your skin to help lighten the area.

Medical procedures

Major and minor surgical treatments are available for people who have sunken eyes. If you are considering surgery, be aware of the risks and be educated.

Dermal fillers involve an injection of a naturally occurring substance known as hyaluronic acid into the tissue below the eye. A filler is usually painless and takes just a few minutes to inject. It doesn’t last forever, so you’ll need to get the procedure redone every year or so.

Cosmetic surgery, including brow lifts, blepharoplasty (eyelid surgery), and facelifts, can lessen the appearance of sunken eyes. These techniques are more invasive and involve a longer recovery time. However, they can offer a more long-term solution to sunken eyes.

Most people have sunken eyes because they are a normal part of the aging process. There are many treatments on the market that can help reduce the appearance of sunken eyes. If you have concerns about sunken eyes or other symptoms, see a doctor.