When to worry about dark circles with periorbital hyperpigmentation

Periorbital hyperpigmentation is darker colour around the eyes. It may be influenced by skin pigment, prior irritation, rubbing, visible blood vessels, shadowing, or a combination of these features. The colour can look stronger after sun exposure or inflammation. A stable, even pattern is usually approached differently from a new patch with scale, crust, tenderness, or a clear change in its border.

Use gentle products around the eyes and avoid rubbing, harsh scrubs, and untested lightening products. Protect the area from sunlight with suitable sunscreen and physical protection, taking care to avoid the eyes. Note whether the colour changes with irritation, sleep, lighting, or a flare. Stop any product that causes burning, rash, or swelling.

Seek a routine assessment if the colour is persistent and bothersome or if you are unsure whether the change is pigment, shadow, or an active skin problem. Seek prompt care for pain, warmth, discharge, marked swelling, crusting, bleeding, or rapidly expanding colour. Vision changes or severe eye pain require urgent assessment.

Ask which features are contributing to the colour, whether irritation or allergy is present, which treatments are appropriate for the thin eye-area skin, and how to protect the area while treatment is considered.