ARE YOUR ALLERGIES MESSING WITH YOUR COMPLEXION?

Dark circles under the eyes are a common cosmetic complaint, but they may not be caused by a lack of sleep. Allergic shiners or “periorbital hyperpigmentation” are dark circles caused by nasal and sinus congestion due to allergies. They tend to be bluish-purple and are often accompanied by red, itchy eyes; sneezing; sinus pressure; and a sore or itchy throat. The circles are the result of excess fluid invading the blood vessels and veins under the eyes, enlarging them  and pushing them toward the surface of the skin. Pooled blood is the cause of the discoloration.  Any type of allergy can cause dark circles, but it’s more likely to occur in people whose allergies usually affect their eyes.

P.S. If the allergy causing your periorbital hyperpigmentation cannot be avoided, it can usually be treated with antihistamines and anti-inflammatory eye drops.

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