Dark Eyelids: What Causes Them and How to Treat Naturally

Have you noticed a change in the hue of the skin around your eyes, especially during periods of stress, sickness, and allergies? Among the masses, this concern is often referred to as "dark" or "black" eyelids. It is extremely common and affects people all around the world, irrespective of age or ethnicity. However, commonly, the appearance of pigmented eyelids and skin surrounding the eye might lead to a hampered self-esteem, causing distress. However, it is beneficial to understand that dark eyelids are not a medical condition but a cosmetic one. Dark eyelids manifest as periocular or periorbital hyperpigmentation (POH) and were found to be most prevalent in individuals between the ages of 16 and 25 according to a 2014 study.

The attributes linked to POH are exacerbated production of melanin on the eyelids and underneath the eyes, puffiness and bluish hue induced by vascular blood vessels or natural contours, and irregular fat distribution around the eyelids. Let’s understand the nuances of this condition and how to treat dark eyelids naturally for radiant, healthier-looking skin around your eyes.

Keynotes:

• The occurrence of black eyelids can stem from causes such as genetics, allergies, nutrient deficiencies, skin conditions, and lifestyle choices.
• For milder cases, some dark eyelid remedies include the use of natural ingredients like cucumber and almond oil to soothe and moisturize the skin.
• Professional treatments for eyelid hyperpigmentation can range from topical creams and chemical peels to laser therapies.
• Healthier lifestyle choices such as getting sufficient sleep, using gentle cosmetics, and consistent use of broad-spectrum sunscreen are recommended to maintain the health of the skin.

The appearance of a dark pigment over the eyelids can be brought upon by a range of factors. These can be both intrinsic and extrinsic, with reasons influencing the other. Such a predicament results in the eye area in a state of persistent discoloration and puffiness. Hence, having a keen grasp on the dark eyelid causes can help you be vigilant enough to plan strategies for treatment ahead. Let's understand the factors that can influence black eyelids and hyperpigmentation around the eye:

Genetics, Allergies, and Skin Conditions

A predisposition of eyelid hyperpigmentation in a family can play a major role in determining the emergence of dark circles and pigmentation in an individual. Additionally, anatomic differences such as facial structure, age (POH is majorly found in females), sex, and physical health can be contributors to the condition as well. Alongside genetic factors, allergens such as pet dander and irritants in cosmetics can trigger itching in the area around the eye. Such friction can lead to instances of post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation. Moreover, skin conditions such as eczema and skin dryness can also potentially weaken the skin barrier, thereby intensifying the inflammation and making it prone to chronic irritation.

Nutrient Deficiencies and Lifestyle Factors

While your genetics and skin conditions play a part, lifestyle factors and the food that you consume, or lack thereof also play an equally significant role in the emergence of dark eyelids. For instance, nutritional deficiencies, specifically of vitamin B12, are closely linked to periorbital pigmentation. Lifestyle factors such as poor sleeping habits, smoking, stress, and strain on the eye due to prolonged exposure to the screens can also further contribute to a tired and hollowed-out appearance. It is also recommended that individuals eliminate the use of low-quality or expired makeup products and harsh cosmetics around the eyes, especially as they can irritate the preorbital region further. Irritants in these products can trigger post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation or contact dermatitis leading to inflammation and discoloration that may necessitate targeted interventions by a dermatologist immediately.

For most, the journey towards healthier skin and dark upper eyelid treatment begins at home. With the focus on hydration, reducing inflammation, and promoting circulation, these may pan out in simple dark eyelids home remedies with readily available ingredients around the house.

Natural Ingredients Like Cucumber and Almond Oil

The mention of cucumber sparks a faint nostalgia, doesn’t it? Thin slices of cucumber have been a time-tested remedy to soothe puffy or tired eyes. The vegetable is revered due to its string of antioxidants namely vitamin C, flavonoids, tannins and more. These compounds prove to be worthy opponents against oxidative stress and irritants, the two potential drivers of inflammation in the skin. On the other hand, almond oil is another famous choice touted for its benefits for skin health and beauty. Its nutritional profile is beyond the bounds with essential fatty acids, vitamins and antioxidants. Gently massaging a small amount of oil around the eye area can help boost circulation and moisturize the delicate skin, potentially reducing the intensity of the darkness over time.

In cases of severe eyelid hyperpigmentation, the condition can demand more targeted and advanced solutions. No matter if the concern is vascular (visible blue-purple veins) or overproduction of melanin, these methods are employed to treat black eyelids comprehensively.

Sunscreen

The application of sunscreen is a preventative measure that acts as a line of defense against the harsh r sun rays no matter which treatment option is chosen. Professionals recommend that individuals diligently take to applying a broad-spectrum sunscreen (SPF 30 or above) liberally to protect the skin from inflammation/hyperpigmentation triggers and premature aging.

Topical Treatments

Topical agents are the first procedure followed for dealing with hyperpigmentation in dark upper eyelid treatment. These include prescription creams and serums that target the melanin deposited onto the skin, thereby lightening dark spots and improving skin texture and tone. Some popular topical ingredients employed in this are kojic acid, azelaic acid, arbutin, L-ascorbic acid (vitamin C) as well as hydroquinone and tretinoin.

Chemical Peels

Next, the individuals are recommended in-office chemical peels that involve the dermatologist applying a concentrated agent (solution) onto the skin. This thoroughly exfoliates the region, targeting the dead skin cells and thus promoting a new cell turnover. Mild to moderate solutions of lactic acid or glycolic acid are used for this procedure.

Laser

Individuals with persistent black eyelids or deep hyperpigmentation are further prescribed laser therapies such as Q-switched ruby lasers and pulsed lasers, depending on the type of POH. These are non-invasive treatments that target the excess melanin or pigment as well as vascular lesions in the dark circles around the eyelids.

Read more: How to Choose the Right Hyperpigmentation Treatment for Your Skin Type?

Although a cosmetic concern, dark circles or changed hues around the eyelids can have you scrambling to try every piece of advice you come across. That said, the fastest way how to get rid of dark eyelids is by consulting a board-certified dermatologist. They will assess the severity of the condition and prescribe a course of action based on your skin type.

If you notice these signs:

• Increased pigmentation or black eyelids
• Loss of fatty tissue in one eyelid or area around the eye
• Bulging fat in one eyelid or area around it
• Puffy eyelid or substantial eyelid laxity
• Thin skin or inflamed persistent pain
• Redness or irritation around the eyelid or preorbital area

Individuals with the above symptoms and concerns about the best course of action for pigmented dark eyelids should book a consult with a dermatologist immediately. They can help you with an immediate diagnosis and treatment plan for the best possible results.

Black eyelids and dark circles are a prevalent concern among the masses, often stemming from genetic predisposition, underlying health concerns, nutrient deficiencies and lifestyle choices. Understanding the causes can help an individual recognize the influence and take into account the strategies to manage the condition, be it dark eyelids, home remedies, or professional treatments. No matter the treatment option, always ensure to follow consistent sunscreen use and adopt gentle skincare products and practices to achieve lasting results.

1. What causes eyelid hyperpigmentation?

   Eyelid hyperpigmentation is a condition wherein the eyelids or area around the eye turn pigmented or dark due to melanin deposits, inflammation, or vascular concerns. It can be caused by genetics, age, gender, prevalent skin conditions like eczema, nutritional deficiencies (vitamin B12), inflammation caused by rubbing, and lifestyle factors like sun exposure.

2. Can I lighten dark eyelids naturally?

   To some extent, you can lighten dark eyelids naturally. If you are wondering how to treat dark eyelids naturally then you can use cucumber slices to soothe the area and almond oil massages to boost circulation and moisturize the skin. Moreover, diligent use of sunscreen (broad spectrum of SPF 30 or above) can significantly promote the health of the skin and reduce any inflammation induced by sun exposure.

3. Which vitamin deficiency causes dark eyelids?

   Vitamin B12 deficiency is frequently cited and linked to periorbital hyperpigmentation and darkening around the eyelids. Hence, correcting the deficiency with a doctor's consultation and proper supplementation can help curb the concern efficiently.

4. Are dark eyelids a sign of a medical condition?

   Not always; black eyelids or dark circles around the eyelids are generally termed cosmetic concerns and not medical ones. However, if they manifest accompanied by other symptoms such as vision changes, swelling, pain and persistent itching, then it could be a sign of an underlying medical condition. Such a predicament may need a healthcare provider's consultation to rule out serious allergies or issues.

• TREATMENT OF PERIOCULAR HYPERPIGMENTATION DUE TO LEAD OF KOHL - pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih
• Periorbital Hyperpigmentation - mdpi
• Study of Causative Factors and Clinical Patterns of Periorbital Pigmentation - pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih
• Formulation and evaluation of herbal under eye cream with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties - mdpi
• Periorbital Hyperpigmentation: A Comprehensive Review - pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih
• Hyperpigmentation as a Primary Symptom of Vitamin B12 Deficiency: A Case Report pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih