Age 25, is this an allergic shiner, or genetic? (Photos)

Question

Is this an allergic shiner? Or genetic? I'm 25 years old. I have pretty bad allergies but I'm not sure what the cause is. Just curious what do you think this is? I've had it for years now. It's more severe on one side and literally won't go away. I'm not on any allergy meds. One side looks fine, the Right side is more severe. Thanks

Anna Chacon, MD, FAAD · Answer

Allergic shiners are dark circles under the eyes often associated with allergies, caused by congestion and swelling of the veins beneath the skin. Here are some considerations to help determine if your condition might be an allergic shiner or genetic:

Allergic Shiners: Given your history of allergies, it's possible that the dark circles are allergic shiners. These are usually characterized by bilateral darkening, but they can be more pronounced on one side, especially if there is more congestion or irritation on that side.

Genetic Factors: Genetic predisposition can also contribute to dark circles. If family members have similar under-eye discoloration, this might suggest a genetic component.

Asymmetry: The fact that the discoloration is more severe on one side could suggest localized issues, such as nasal congestion or differences in blood flow or skin thickness.

Management: If you suspect allergies are contributing, starting allergy medications or addressing environmental allergens might help reduce the appearance of these circles. Antihistamines, nasal sprays, or allergy shots could be options to discuss with a healthcare provider.

Consultation: Consider consulting with a dermatologist or allergist for a more personalized assessment. They can help identify the cause and recommend treatments, such as topical creams or lifestyle changes, to improve the appearance of the under-eye area.

Addressing both potential allergic and genetic factors can provide a comprehensive approach to managing the dark circles.

Age 25, is this an allergic shiner, or genetic? (Photos)

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Age 25, is this an allergic shiner, or genetic? (Photos)

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