Why do dark circles get worse during winters: causes and solutions? Expert insights by Dr. Neha Khuraana, Founder, House Of Aesthetics

One of the most common skin issues that people face, especially women, in winter months are under-eye dark circles. They make the face look tired and aged too and this necessitates the need of right and timely measures to address them. Dr. Neha Khuraana, founder of House of Aesthetics, shares her deep insight into the causes of dark circles and adequate treatments needed to combat them.

Causes of dark circles -

(1)?? Dehydrated and dry skin - The winter winds that are dry and cold, accompanied by indoor heating systems, makes the skin appear very dry and the delicate under-eye area becomes more dry as it is quite delicate. The blood vessels under the skin become more prominent, making the dark circles more visible.

(2)?? Inadequate blood circulation - The low temperatures of cold winters slows down the blood flow and this reduced blood circulation to the under-eye area causes a blood pool, giving a dark and puffy under-eye appearance.

(3)?? Limited sun exposure - Because of raised tendency to stay indoors during winters, the exposure to direct sunlight reduces and results in lower levels of vitamin D in the blood. But this sunshine vitamin is quintessential for a healthy skin and in the inadequacy of it, skin and under eye area appears dull and darker.

(4)?? Fatigue or stress - Since the days are shorter but the nights are longer in winters, the normal sleep-wake cycle gets disrupted and makes the appearance of dark circles more prominent.

(5)?? Allergic reaction - Dark circles get more prominent with nasal congestion as it leads to under-eye blood pool. Hence, during winters, the incidence of cold and cough rises due to the trigger of winter allergies caused by indoor dust mites, pet dander, mold etc.

(6)?? Changes in the diet - The cold weather welcomes the craving of rich and sugary foods with it and fibre loaded fresh fruits and vegetables take a back step. This gives rise to nutritional deficiencies such as Vitamin K, C and B12 etc., the key vitamins needed for healthy and glowy skin and reducing the under-eye pigmentation.

Solutions to deal with dark circles in winters -

1. Keep the Under-Eye Area Hydrated - Invest in a hydrating eye cream with ingredients like hyaluronic acid, ceramides, or glycerin to lock in moisture. Use it twice daily to prevent dryness and maintain the skin’s elasticity. You can also use a humidifier at home to combat the drying effects of indoor heating.
2. Improve Blood Circulation - Gently massage the under-eye area with your fingertips or use a jade roller to stimulate blood flow. Cold compresses or chilled cucumber slices can also help reduce puffiness and dark circles by constricting blood vessels.
3. Address Vitamin D Deficiency - Make an effort to get sunlight exposure whenever possible, especially during midday. You can also include vitamin D-rich foods like fatty fish, fortified milk, and eggs in your diet, or take a supplement as prescribed by a healthcare professional.
4. Manage Allergies - If winter allergies are a trigger, use anti-allergy medications or consult a doctor for a suitable treatment plan. Additionally, keeping your living space dust-free and using air purifiers can reduce allergens.
5. Prioritize Sleep and Stress Management - Aim for 7-9 hours of sleep every night to allow the skin to repair itself. Practice relaxation techniques like yoga or meditation to manage stress, which can otherwise worsen dark circles.
6. Boost Nutrition - Incorporate foods rich in skin-friendly nutrients such as Vitamin C present in oranges, kiwi, bell peppers, and strawberries for collagen production, vitamin K present in leafy greens like spinach and kale to strengthen capillaries, iron in lentils, beans, and lean meats to combat anemia-related dark circles.
7. Use the right skincare ingredients - Use products consisting of vitamin C for skin brightening, niacinamide for hyperpigmented skin, retinol for boosting up collagen etc.
8. Protect the Skin - Even in winters, apply sunscreen daily to protect the under-eye area from UV damage. Opt for a hydrating sunscreen that doesn’t dry out the skin further.

Conclusion -

Dark circles during winters are often a result of environmental and lifestyle factors, but they’re not irreversible. By understanding the root causes and implementing targeted skincare and lifestyle strategies, you can significantly reduce their appearance. Consistency is key—small, regular efforts will yield noticeable results over time. If you’re unsure about the severity of your dark circles, consulting a dermatologist can provide personalized advice and treatments for long-term improvement.

As a highly regarded dermatologist and aesthetic expert, Dr. Neha Khurana has dedicated her career to helping individuals overcome their skin and hair challenges with a blend of science-backed techniques and personalized care. With years of experience and a deep understanding of how environmental changes and lifestyle factors affect the skin, Dr. Khurana offers tailored solutions to address even the most persistent issues like dark circles. Her approach goes beyond surface-level treatments. Dr. Khurana believes in holistic skincare that not only resolves current concerns but also prevents future ones.