Dark circles under the eyes are one of the most common cosmetic concerns people bring to dermatologists and plastic surgeons. Patients often ask if there is a way to get rid of them permanently, and the answer depends on identifying the exact cause.
Dark circles are not a single condition, they can be due to excess pigment, visible blood vessels beneath thin skin, loss of fat creating under-eye hollows, or swelling from allergies and systemic issues. Each cause requires a different treatment, ranging from topical creams and laser therapy to fillers, or surgery.
Lasting results are possible, but only when treatment targets the root cause. This guide explains how to get rid of black under eyes with the most effective long-term solutions.
Understanding the reason behind dark circles is the first step toward effective treatment. The main causes include:
Some people naturally have higher melanin under the eyes, making the area appear darker. Family history plays a strong role.
The under-eye skin is very thin. Over time, it loses collagen and shows blood vessels more prominently, giving a bluish or purplish appearance.
Hollows or depressions in the under-eye area, often caused by fat loss or ageing, cast shadows that appear as dark circles, even without pigmentation.
Lack of sleep, dehydration, poor diet, and chronic stress can worsen the dark circles by making the skin paler or increasing fluid retention.
Inflammation from allergies or sinus congestion can cause puffiness and darkening. Rubbing or scratching the eyes worsens pigment over time.
Nutritional deficiencies (iron, B12), thyroid disorders, or other systemic health issues may contribute. Persistent or unusual dark circles sometimes signal an underlying health concern.
Permanent removal of dark circles depends on the underlying cause. Structural issues, like hollows under the eyes, can be corrected long-term through surgery. Pigment-related or vascular dark circles can be significantly improved with creams, lasers, and other treatments, but they usually require ongoing maintenance to prevent recurrence. In short, some causes can be addressed permanently, while others are best managed for lasting improvement rather than complete elimination.
If you want more than home remedies or concealers, medical treatments can directly target the cause of dark circles. The right choice depends on whether your circles are caused by pigmentation, thinning skin, volume loss, or structural changes. Here are the main options:
Topical creams and lightening agents reduce excess pigment under the eyes using ingredients such as vitamin C, retinoids, kojic acid, or hydroquinone. They are best suited for pigmentation-related dark circles. Results appear gradually over several weeks, with minimal downtime other than occasional redness or irritation.
Chemical peels use alpha-hydroxy acids like glycolic or lactic acid to gently exfoliate and lighten pigmented skin. They are performed in-office, usually as a series of treatments. Recovery is limited to mild redness and peeling for a few days.
Laser therapy targets either pigmentation, visible veins, or skin laxity, depending on the laser used. Pigment lasers lighten brown discolouration, vascular lasers reduce bluish veins, and fractional lasers stimulate collagen to thicken skin. Recovery involves a few days of redness or swelling, and risks are higher in darker skin tones.
Tear Trough Fillers restore lost volume in the under-eye hollows, reducing shadows that create the appearance of dark circles. The treatment takes less than an hour, results are immediate, and downtime is limited to temporary swelling or bruising. Results last 6–18 months, with repeat treatments required for maintenance.
PRP injections harness growth factors from your own blood to improve skin quality, stimulate collagen, and support healthier circulation under the eyes. Treatments are usually done in a series, with mild swelling or bruising for a few days and results that build gradually over weeks.
Microneedling uses tiny needles to trigger collagen production and improve skin thickness. It can also be combined with brightening serums for pigment reduction. Recovery includes redness for 1-2 days, with little disruption to daily routines.
Lower blepharoplasty removes or repositions fat and tightens loose skin when dark circles are caused by under-eye bags or structural changes. This surgical option offers long-lasting correction, but recovery usually takes 1-2 weeks with swelling & bruising.
Polynucleotide injections repair and rejuvenate thin under-eye skin by stimulating the production of fibroblasts, which in turn produce collagen and elastin. They also improve hydration and tissue repair. Downtime is minimal, with only mild swelling or bruising for a few days, though multiple sessions are recommended for best results.
NeoGen Plasma uses nitrogen plasma energy to heat and renew the skin’s deeper layers without cutting or injecting. It helps tighten thin skin, smooth wrinkles, and lighten pigmentation under the eyes. Results improve gradually as new collagen forms, and downtime is usually limited to a few days of mild redness or flaking.
A qualified aesthetic doctor can assess your skin, identify the root cause, and create a personalised plan to achieve brighter, smoother under-eyes safely and effectively.
While medical treatments can give lasting results, there are simple steps you can take at home to reduce the dark circles appearance and puffiness. These remedies are safe, easy to try, and can complement professional care.
Aim for minimum 7 hours of quality sleep every night. Sleep deprivation makes the skin appear paler, which allows blood vessels under the eyes to show through more prominently. Consistent rest can reduce shadows and improve overall skin health.
When you sleep flat, fluid can collect under your eyes overnight, leading to puffiness and shadows in the morning. Try sleeping with your head elevated on an extra pillow or two to encourage fluid drainage.
Chilled spoons, gel masks, or even a bag of frozen peas wrapped in a towel can shrink dilated blood vessels and reduce swelling. Applying a cold compress for 10-15 minutes in the morning can instantly make eyes look fresher.
Place cool cucumber slices on your eyes for about 10 minutes. Cucumbers are rich in water, vitamin C, and antioxidants, which hydrate the skin and reduce swelling. They also feel soothing.
Soak two tea bags (preferably green or black tea), chill them in the fridge, then place them on your closed eyes for 10 minutes. Tea contains caffeine and antioxidants that may improve circulation, shrink blood vessels, and reduce discolouration.
Eye creams or serums with caffeine can temporarily tighten blood vessels and reduce puffiness, similar to the effect of tea bags. Regular use may help make under-eye circles less noticeable, especially if vascular congestion is a factor.
Sun exposure increases melanin production, which can darken pigment under the eyes. Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen daily (SPF 30 or higher) and wear sunglasses outdoors. This prevents worsening of pigment-based dark circles and protects thin under-eye skin from further damage.
During a facial or at home, light massage around the eyes can encourage circulation and reduce fluid retention. Be gentle as the skin here is delicate.
When circles persist, concealers and correctors remain a simple and effective option. Select a shade that complements your skin tone or has a peach/orange undertone to counteract bluish discolouration.
Sometimes dark circles are more than just a cosmetic concern. You should consider seeing a doctor if:
Permanently removing dark circles is possible, but the results depend on the underlying cause. Structural hollows, pigmentation, or thin skin can be improved long-term with professional treatments such as NeoGen Plasma, PRP, polynucleotide injections, lasers, or blepharoplasty. Lifestyle changes and at-home care can support these results, but rarely remove dark circles completely on their own.
For those struggling with under-eye hollows, tear trough fillers at Yorkshire Skin Centre offer a safe and effective way to restore volume, reduce shadows, and achieve a brighter, refreshed look. Consult our expert team today to find the treatment that suits your needs and enjoy long-lasting improvement.
Permanent removal depends on the cause. Some types, like under-eye hollows, can be corrected with surgery. Others, like pigmentation or thin skin, can improve with creams, lasers, or fillers but may need ongoing care. A doctor can guide you to the right treatment.
Low vitamin B12 levels have been linked to increased skin pigmentation, which may make dark circles more noticeable.
You can’t erase them completely in two days, but you can reduce their appearance with more sleep, cold compresses, hydration, and makeup. Long-term improvement needs consistent care or medical treatment.
Yes. Vitamin C brightens skin, reduces pigmentation, boosts collagen, and protects against sun and pollution damage.
Yes. Staying hydrated improves blood flow and helps reduce dark, tired-looking under-eyes.
It depends on what’s causing them. Some dark circles, like those from under-eye hollows or excess skin, can be improved long-term with treatments like fillers, lasers, or surgery. Pigmentation-related circles can also lighten with creams or laser therapy, but they usually need ongoing care to keep them from coming back.
Vaseline can’t remove dark circles, but it can help keep the skin under your eyes soft and moisturised. Moisturised skin looks healthier and can make dark circles a little less noticeable, but it won’t fix the real cause of the darkness.
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Consultant Plastic Surgeon
Dr. Mark Gorman is a consultant plastic surgeon and department lead at Salford Royal, specialising in facial plastics and complex reconstructive procedures. His expertise spans a wide range of areas, including oculoplastic, nasal, ear, abdominal, and microsurgical reconstruction, with particular focus on breast, head and neck, and lower limb reconstruction.
With a non-surgical and surgical skillet, Dr. Gorman is known for using advanced techniques to achieve natural, harmonious results. His approach often integrates dermal fillers and fat transfer to enhance facial features in combination with a range of deep plane facelifts.
Beyond facial aesthetics, his specialties include high-definition liposuction, allowing for precise body contouring.
Dr. Gorman’s approach to plastic surgery is rooted in skill, combining technical precision with a deep understanding of aesthetics to achieve refined and personalised outcomes for each patient.Dr.Gorman is a key opinion leader (KOL) for major UK aesthetic companies, also has taught at BAAPS (British Association of Aesthetic Plastic Surgeons), bringing his expertise to the next generation of surgeons.
Additionally, he runs his own aesthetic training company, further extending his influence in the field.Dedicated to total well-being, Dr. Gorman created the Look Body Mind philosophy, which blends aesthetics and wellness for a holistic approach to beauty.Whether you’re looking for subtle enhancements or comprehensive reconstructive work, Dr. Gorman’s patient-centered care, grounded in precision, skill and an exceptional aesthetic eye, ensures that you will feel confident throughout your journey.
Administrator
Sophie brings over a decade of customer service expertise to her role as Receptionist at Yorkshire Skin Centre. With a strong foundation in retail management and the travel industry, she is recognised for her warm, approachable manner and professional attitude—ensuring every client feels welcomed and valued from the moment they arrive.
Highly organised and calm under pressure, Sophie thrives in fast-paced environments and seamlessly manages a wide range of front-of-house responsibilities.
As the first point of contact for many clients, she plays a vital role in maintaining the clinic’s high standards of service and creating a smooth, reassuring experience for all visitors.
Beyond her professional skills, Sophie brings a vibrant energy to the team. She has a passion for travel, fashion, and music, and is currently learning both Spanish and Arabic. Her dedication to personal growth, combined with her friendly and proactive approach, makes her an indispensable part of our team.
Senior Surgical Sister(RN)
Herezel McCourt is a highly experienced Registered Nurse at Yorkshire Skin Centre, bringing over two decades of clinical expertise across diverse surgical and medical specialties. She holds a BSc (Hons) in Perioperative Practice from Huddersfield University, UK, and a BSc in Nursing from Cebu Doctors’ University in the Philippines.
Herezel has spent the majority of her career within the NHS, most recently as a Clinical Specialist in Ophthalmic Surgery at The MidYorkshire Teaching NHS Trust.
Her extensive background includes roles in operating theatres, anaesthetic care, ENT, urology, plastics, maxillofacial, orthopaedic, and podiatric nursing, among others.
Renowned for her professionalism, dedication, and compassionate care, Herezel is also a trained mentor, assessor, and ANTT trainer. She has led initiatives in recruitment, risk assessment, SOP development, and patient care pathway planning. Her leadership credentials are strengthened by a Level 3 Award in First Line Management and a strong commitment to staff development and peer support.
Herezel is a calm and supportive presence to both patients and colleagues, and her attention to clinical excellence makes her an invaluable member of the Yorkshire Skin Centre team.
Clinical Assistant
Rhea Levitt is a highly experienced Clinical Assistant at Yorkshire Skin Centre, known for her hands-on approach, warm personality, and commitment to delivering high-quality patient care. With a solid background in healthcare settings, Rhea brings valuable clinical expertise and administrative support to the team.
Her wide-ranging experience includes phlebotomy, wound care, ECGs, diabetic foot checks, B12 injections, and assisting in minor surgical procedures. She is also skilled in patient health monitoring, spirometry, and providing support during clinics such as coil fittings and cancer care.
Rhea’s well-rounded clinical knowledge is matched by her excellent organisational skills and a calm, compassionate approach to patient wellbeing.
In addition to her clinical duties, Rhea supports the practice by carrying out internal audits and ensuring best practices are upheld throughout the clinic. She plays a key role in maintaining smooth day-to-day operations and upholding the high standards that Yorkshire Skin Centre is known for.
Dedicated, professional, and always ready to help, Rhea is an invaluable member of the team who helps ensure that every patient receives attentive, safe, and seamless care.
Administrator
Raman holds a Bachelor of Science with Bachelor of Education (BSc, BEd) from India, a qualification that integrates scientific studies and teaching education, equipping her with a strong foundation in both fields. She is currently building her career in the UK healthcare industry, bringing her hardworking, compassionate, and friendly nature to the team.
With valuable experience in customer service and patient care, Raman plays a key role in managing day-to-day operations, handling bookings, and ensuring a smooth and welcoming experience for all patients.
Her dedication to excellence and passion for healthcare and client well-being make her an integral part of our team.
Practitioner
Nichola is a highly skilled practitioner with a strong background in beauty and holistic therapies. She earned her Level 3 Beauty Therapy qualification with distinction from the Yorkshire College of Beauty and further enhanced her expertise with Level 4 Specialist training. She is also CIDESCO-certified, an internationally recognized gold standard in beauty and spa therapy, ensuring clients receive the highest level of care and treatments.
With 18 years of customer service experience, primarily in the hospitality industry, Nichola deeply understands the importance of building strong client relationships. She is known for her hardworking nature, punctuality, and dedication to continuous learning.
Passionate about skincare and wellness, Nichola is committed to expanding her expertise in a leading skin clinic. She believes that the knowledge and experience she gains will be invaluable in delivering the highest standard of care to her clients.
“ Your journey to skin perfection starts here. Leave your details, and our expert team will be in touch shortly.”
Clinic Director
Founder and Medical Director
Dr Raj is the Founder and Clinical Director of the Yorkshire Aesthetic Clinic. With a successful career in aesthetics and a passion for patient care, Dr. Raj found that his expertise in facial aesthetics was a natural progression where he could showcase his warm and friendly demeanour alongside his exceptional skills.
Dr Raj specialises in advanced facial aesthetics, offering a wide range of treatments and skin procedures. With his extensive training and experience in both medical and aesthetic fields, he brings a unique perspective to delivering exceptional results.
Driven by his passion for patient satisfaction, Dr Raj established the Yorkshire Aesthetic Clinic. Located in a comfortable and welcoming environment, the clinic provides a luxurious and refined setting for patients seeking aesthetic treatments…. Read More
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Patient Representative
Hi, I’m Sarah Coates. I’m a Senior Change Manager, Hogan accredited coach, proud mum of 2 beautiful boys and am blessed with incredible friends to get into mischief with!
As I headed towards my 40th birthday, my life changed in a way that I could never have imagined and I came off that roller coaster with a new lease of life, with an understanding of the importance of self care and a huge amount of gratitude.
I love to travel, have a passion for interior design and enjoy sharing all that life has to offer with my beautiful family and fabulous friends.
If I’m not at work, you’ll find me playing at the park with my boys, enjoying the sun in Ibiza, listening to music or at the bar with a glass of fizz!
Patient Representative
Patient Representative
I am Senior Manager currently working for a small charity based in Leeds. My role is both professionally stimulating and challenging. No two days are ever the same. It includes aspects of advocacy, client rights, individual representation and inclusivity.
One milestone that resonates deeply is the creation of support groups, safe spaces where clients can openly share their stories. Witnessing the impact of these connections has fuelled my determination to improve the journey of others.
Through my own aesthetic endeavours , I’ve developed an unparalleled understanding of the emotional nuances tied to cosmetic treatments. This empathy allows me to offer sincere reassurance and guidance, especially during moments of vulnerability, in an era of aesthetic care that marries technical expertise with genuine human understanding and a person centred approach.
In my spare time I love the outdoors, enjoying hillwalking, taking part in sport, managing my bountiful allotment, and enhancing my cookery skills trying different cuisines (..no Masterchef yet).. and travel.
Consultant and General Surgeon
Dr. Khan earned her MD from Copenhagen University in 2003 and boasts over 20 years of medical expertise. Her early career was dedicated to dermatology and gynaecology across Yorkshire, and in 2011, she became a qualified GP from The Royal College of General Practitioners in London.
Dr. Khan’s commitment to women’s health is evident through her achievements. In 2012, she earned a Diploma in Sexual and Reproductive Health.
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Aesthetic Doctor
Expert Practitioner
Yorkshire Skin Centre in Leeds is a CQC registered medical clinic. Led by Dr Raj Thethi who completed his core surgical training in hospitals around West Yorkshire before branching into aesthetic medicine.
Dr Raj Thethi is a Northern Territory Regional Expert for an international dermal filler company called Teoxane. He also sits on their National UK Faculty. He is nationally recognised leader in the field of Aesthetics and a skilled trainer up..Yorkshire Skin Centre in Leeds is a CQC registered medical clinic. Led by Dr Raj Thethi who completed his core surgical training in hospitals around West Yorkshire before branching into aesthetic medicine.
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Consultant Ophthalmologist & Oculoplastic Surgeon
Mr Jeeva is celebrated for his mastery in aesthetic eyelid surgery. By adopting a patient-centric ethos, he delivers personalised treatments that amplify natural beauty and revive youthful vitality.
He has completed a prestigious fellowship at the Royal College of Surgeons, specialising in cosmetic plastic surgery. This rigorous training has endowed him with advanced techniques in aesthetic surgery, ensuring outcomes that are both beautiful and natural.
With a specialised fellowship in oculoplastic surgery, Mr Jeeva has honed his skills in delicate eyelid surgeries, tear duct disorders… Read More
Independent Nurse Prescriber
Alana embarked on a career in nursing in 2008, following her comprehensive training and graduation. Since then, she has accrued a wealth of experience working in a variety of roles within both the NHS and private healthcare sectors. Known for her dedication and exceptional skills, Alana rapidly ascended into management, and for the past seven years, has been serving as a matron.
Throughout her career, she has consistently maintained her clinical competencies and academic studies. She initially earned a Bachelor’s degree in Nursing, later advancing her studies to become an Advanced Nurse Practitioner and Independent Prescriber. Her commitment to continuous professional development led to the completion of her full Master’s degree.
Alana’s passion for skin spurred her to further specialise in this field. In 2017, she pursued training in facial aesthetics, a decision that marked the beginning of a significant new chapter in her career. Since then, she has been affiliated with several leading skin clinics across the UK, where she has honed her expertise and built a reputation for excellence. Her extensive knowledge and experience in skin led her to become an expert medical trainer and since 2021, Alana has been imparting her knowledge at an award-winning training academy. Previously, she held the prestigious position of National Trainer for SKN Clinics, where she educated a variety of medical professionals, including plastic surgeons.
While Alana enjoys all aspects of skin, she has a particular fondness for medical-grade skin care, which she believes offers unparalleled benefits to patients. Her dedication to patient care and her professional knowledge and skills, make her a standout figure in this field. Through her work, Alana has positively impacted numerous lives, helping patients achieve their best skin health and aesthetic goals. In her trainer role, Alana is known for her meticulous approach and her ability to convey complex information in an accessible manner, ensuring that her trainees are well-equipped to deliver high-quality care. Her leadership and mentorship have been crucial in elevating the standards of practice within the industry.
Alana’s career is a testament to her unwavering commitment to excellence in nursing and aesthetics. Her professional journey reflects a blend of clinical expertise, academic achievement, and a genuine passion for improving patient care. As she continues to advance her career, Alana remains dedicated to staying at the forefront of the field, continually enhancing her skills and knowledge to provide the best possible care to her patients and to train the next generation of skin care professionals.
Consultant Plastic & Reconstructive Surgeon
With over 15 years of experience in the NHS, Mr Nikos Lymperopoulos specialises in reconstructive and cosmetic plastic surgery. He graduated from the University of Athens Medical in 2009 and completed his basic surgical training in Liverpool. After earning a PhD with honours in DIEP clinical anatomy research in 2013, he completed advanced surgical training in plastic surgery across Yorkshire and Liverpool, including a cosmetic fellowship in the North West.
Mr Lymperopoulos further honed his expertise with two prestigious breast reconstruction microsurgical fellowships at The Royal Marsden Hospital in Chelsea and Guy’s & St Thomas’ Hospitals in London. His extensive experience in breast reconstruction after mastectomy provides a profound understanding of surgical anatomy and aesthetics, benefiting procedures such as breast augmentation, reduction, and uplift. Additionally, he is highly skilled in abdominoplasty, often enhanced with liposuction or muscle repair, especially post-pregnancy.
Specialising in skin cancer treatment, he adeptly handles Basal Cell Carcinoma, Squamous Cell Carcinoma, and Melanoma. He offers a comprehensive range of breast and body cosmetic surgeries, including breast augmentation with implants or fat transfer, breast reduction, uplift, tummy tucks, and liposuction. Combined procedures, such as “mommy makeovers,” are also available to restore post-pregnancy body contours.
Trained in both surgical and non-surgical facial rejuvenation, Mr Lymperopoulos performs eyelid surgery (blepharoplasty), as well as toxin and filler injections. Currently, he serves as a Consultant at Mid Yorkshire Teaching Hospitals, specialising in breast reconstruction and skin cancer surgery, and holds an Honorary Senior Lecturer position at the University of Leeds.
An advocate for education and research, Mr Lymperopoulos has over 20 publications in peer-reviewed journals and a PhD in microsurgical breast reconstruction. As an Education Lead, he developed “The Yorkshire FRCS (Plast) Course” to aid UK trainees in their exit exams. His innovative training simulator was awarded first place in Innovation at the BAPRAS meeting in 2021.
Blepharoplasty, also known as an eye lift, is a surgical procedure performed on the eyelids to improve their appearance. It can address concerns like:
Excess skin on the upper eyelids: This can obstruct vision and create a hooded appearance.
Bags under the lower eyelids: These can make you look tired or aged.
Drooping lower eyelids: This can also obstruct vision and contribute to a tired appearance.
Types of Blepharoplasty:
Upper blepharoplasty: This addresses concerns with the upper eyelids, removing excess skin and sometimes fat or muscle tissue.
Lower blepharoplasty: This addresses concerns with the lower eyelids, removing excess fat or skin and sometimes repositioning tissues.
Asian blepharoplasty: This addresses specific concerns related to the anatomy of Asian eyelids, creating a more defined crease.
