Dark circles are dark or discolored patches of skin that appear beneath the eyes. Various factors, including genetics, aging, lack of sleep, stress, allergies, and skin conditions, can cause them. The skin beneath the eyes is thin and delicate, and when blood vessels beneath the surface dilate, they can become more visible and contribute to the appearance of dark circles. With age, the skin beneath the eyes becomes thinner and loses elasticity. It makes the dark circles more prominent. While dark circles are typically not a severe medical concern, they can be unsightly and cause self-consciousness. Factors Contributing to Dark Circles Under the Eyes Many factors can contribute to the appearance of dark circles under the eyes. The most common causes include the following: Genetics : Dark circles are often hereditary, meaning they run in families. If parents or other family members have dark circles, you are more likely to develop them. Aging : As we age, the skin beneath the eyes beco