Topical creams
Topical depigmentary creams when used singly or in combinations help in reducing dark circles but may cause irritation of the sensitive under-eye skin.
Kojic acid
Kojic acid is a natural, fungus derived product that reduces pigmentation. It may, however, cause reddening of the skin sometimes.
Azelaic acid
It is a safe long term treatment option for under eye dark circles.
Topical vitamin C
Studies show a response to 10% vitamin C topically over a few months.
Chemical peels
Alpha hydroxy acid peels, like glycolic acid, lighten under-eye hyperpigmentation. It may be used in combination with the topical creams for better results.
Lasers
Laser toning with ND-Yag can be an effective treatment for dark circles.
Fillers
This is the best treatment for dark circles as the most common cause for the darker appearance of under eyes is the presence of tear troughs due to loss of subcutaneous fat with aging and thinning of the overlying skin. Injecting hyaluronic acid lifts the skin up and improves the under-eye appearance.
Surgery
Blepharoplasty can be considered when the dark color is due to extra skin around the eye.
As the under-eye skin is extremely delicate to ensure that only a certified dermatologist treats under eye dark circles.