Winter cold often leads to a noticeable worsening of dark circles under the eyes. Dry air and indoor heating strip the skin of its moisture, making veins and discoloration more visible. In addition, reduced sun exposure and spending more time indoors can contribute to fatigue around the eye area.
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Studies indicate that dark circles are mainly caused by two factors: increased pigmentation and the visibility of blood vessels beneath the thin skin. These circles become more pronounced when the skin barrier is weak or dry. During winter, the delicate under-eye area can appear more tired than usual due to dry outdoor air and moisture loss indoors caused by heating systems.
Such conditions exacerbate dark circles, making them appear deeper and more noticeable. Winter alters how the skin retains moisture and how blood flows beneath its surface. Once the true impact of cold weather on the skin is understood, managing these effects becomes much easier. Maintaining skin hydration and using rich creams can help counter seasonal changes and preserve a brighter, more refreshed appearance around the eyes.
More Visible Dark Circles
The skin around the eyes is extremely thin and loses moisture faster than the rest of the face, especially as air dryness increases in winter. Once the skin loses its smooth, hydrated appearance, what lies beneath becomes more visible: veins appear darker, the under-eye area looks sunken, and shadows become more intense. Indoor heating further aggravates the issue, as warm, dry air gradually draws moisture away from the face, leaving the under-eye area dull and hollow.
Winter also brings changes to daily routines. Shorter daylight hours reduce sun exposure, which can disrupt the natural sleep cycle and cause feelings of fatigue even after adequate rest. Reduced blood circulation during this period may also lead to a bluish tone under the eyes, which appears as dark shadows.
The likelihood of winter allergies and sinus congestion also increases. When the nose is congested, blood tends to pool under the eyes, intensifying dark circles. Spending long hours indoors in front of screens further strains the eye area, making dark circles appear deeper by evening. These seasonal effects often accumulate gradually, resulting in noticeable changes beneath the eyes.
Treatment Steps
Some people naturally have pigmentation under the eyes that becomes more noticeable in winter, as the surrounding skin grows drier and loses its natural radiance. Rubbing the eyes due to winter allergies can further darken the skin. Dim winter light also contributes to the problem, as it does not enhance skin brightness the way summer sunlight does—making existing dark circles more apparent.
The first step in treatment is helping the skin retain moisture. Using a rich moisturizer or a nourishing under-eye cream can help plump the area and reduce the appearance of dark circles. Drinking water throughout the day is also crucial, as dehydration often shows under the eyes before anywhere else. Using a humidifier is recommended in dry environments, as maintaining moderate humidity helps the skin stay comfortable rather than tight. Warm compresses that improve blood circulation can also help reduce the bluish tint that contributes to dark circles.
It is advisable to avoid rubbing the eyes, especially during allergy season, and to take regular breaks from screens to relieve strain on the muscles surrounding the eyes.
If dark circles persist despite proper hydration, adequate sleep, and consistent skincare, a dermatologist can help identify the underlying cause. Some cases involve deep pigmentation or natural hollows under the eyes that require targeted treatments. Simple adjustments to skincare routines in winter, along with an understanding of how the season affects the skin, can go a long way toward keeping the eye area more comfortable and radiant during the colder months.
Al Arabiya
