What can I do about darkness at the inner corners of my eyes? (Photos)

Question

I have this darkness right at the inner corner of my eye/right up against the bridge of my nose. it’s always been a bit dark there but it’s worsening with age. is there any treatment i can do to lessen the darkness?

Nelson Lee Novick, MD · Answer

Treatment for dark areas around the eyes generally requires a two-pronged approach--at-home treatment with prescription strength skin-lighting topicals, such as azalaic acid, niacinamide, topical retinoids, accompanied by professionally performed in-office treatments employing a series of superficial peels employing high potency glycolic or salicylic acid, Jessner's Solution, or low concentrations of TCA. You would be wise to consult with an experienced, board certified cosmetic dermatologist and best of luck.

Anna Chacon, MD, FAAD · Answer

Darkness in the inner corners of the eyes is quite common, and it can become more noticeable with age. It may be related to a combination of genetics, naturally thinner skin in that area, visible blood vessels, pigmentation, and shadowing from the shape of the tear trough and nose.

Treatment depends on which of these factors is contributing most. A gentle brightening skincare regimen with ingredients such as vitamin C, niacinamide, or a retinoid may help if pigmentation is part of the problem. Daily broad-spectrum sunscreen is also very important to prevent the area from becoming darker over time.

If the darkness is primarily from hollowness or shadowing rather than pigment, carefully placed hyaluronic acid filler in the tear-trough area can sometimes improve the appearance. However, this is a delicate area with important blood vessels, so filler should be used conservatively and only when the anatomy is appropriate. If the discoloration is true pigmentation, filler would not correct the underlying cause.

Because several different factors can produce a similar appearance, the best treatment depends on whether the darkness is primarily pigment, visible vessels, or shadowing from the surrounding anatomy.

What can I do about darkness at the inner corners of my eyes? (Photos)

Answers (2)

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