If you’ve been layering on every eye cream under the sun—yet still catch yourself wincing when you look in the mirror—trust me, you’re not alone.
I’ve gone through phases where I felt like I’d tried every trick out there: cold spoons, jade rollers, cucumber slices, and concealers that cost more than dinner for two. Still, I’d see those shadows staring back at me.
When I started chatting with dermatologists (and reading up on a few reputable sources), I realized I was making mistakes I didn’t even know counted as mistakes.
That’s when it dawned on me: the fight against under-eye shadows isn’t just about spending hours in the skincare aisle—it’s about understanding those everyday habits that might be undermining all my other efforts.
Below are eight common missteps that many dermatologists say keep us stuck in the cycle of constant darkness. If you can spot even one of these mistakes in your routine, you’ll be a step closer to brighter, healthier-looking skin.
1) Relying too heavily on makeup to cover them up
I used to think concealer was the miracle cure for under-eye circles—like if I just found the perfect shade or formula, I’d wake up one morning looking like I’d had the best rest of my life. It turns out, layering makeup on fatigued skin can sometimes create more problems.
Dermatologists say that heavy concealers can settle into fine lines, drawing even more attention to your eyes. Plus, many of us end up rubbing the delicate under-eye area to remove stubborn makeup, which leads to irritation and discoloration.
Instead, look for lightweight, hydrating products specifically made for the under-eye region. Personally, I’ve learned to use color correctors sparingly in tandem with a gentle formula. And I always, always remove makeup gently with a mild cleanser or micellar water.
It’s not that cosmetics are bad—it’s that they’re not the full solution. Treat the root cause alongside any touch-up product and your eyes will thank you.
2) Skipping out on sun protection
If I had a dollar for every time someone told me sunscreen is only for beach days, I’d probably have enough cash to buy an endless supply of tinted moisturizers.
But unprotected sun exposure is one of the sneakiest contributors to darkening skin around our eyes. Dermatologists often highlight that the skin under and around our eyes is especially thin—so UV damage can become visible quickly.
I used to forget sunscreen entirely or apply it everywhere but my eyelids and under-eye area (since sunscreen in the eyes? No, thank you). Eventually, I picked up a tip: use eye-safe sunscreens or SPF-infused eye creams. Some brands offer mineral-based formulas that don’t irritate or sting.
Being consistent with SPF won’t magically erase shadows overnight, but it can keep them from getting worse. Your future self (and under-eyes) will appreciate that extra minute in the morning.
3) Ignoring hydration and diet
I remember rolling my eyes whenever someone told me to just “drink more water.” It felt too obvious—like it couldn’t possibly be the missing piece. Yet, dehydration is notorious for making our eyes look sunken and dull.
Dermatologists say that when the body lacks proper hydration, it holds onto fluids in odd places, making puffiness and discoloration more visible. I also learned that a diet high in sodium and sugar can lead to water retention, which then emphasizes puffiness.
Sure, I love the occasional salty snack, and I’m definitely not above indulging in sweets. But once I started balancing my meals with more fruits, veggies, and plain old H2O, I noticed a subtle but definite improvement in the mirror.
According to articles I’ve come across on Verywell Mind, our dietary habits can influence our energy levels, mood, and even how we perceive our own self-image. Sometimes, these small health tweaks make a big difference in appearance.
4) Using harsh or inappropriate skincare ingredients
It’s easy to see a trendy product on social media and think, “Yes, that’s what I need for my eyes!”
I learned the hard way that certain skincare ingredients can be too strong or irritating if they’re not formulated for the delicate under-eye region. For instance, powerful retinol creams intended for the face can cause redness or peeling when applied near the eyes.
Dermatologists recommend using specialized under-eye treatments with lower concentrations of retinol or gentler ingredients like peptides and hyaluronic acid. These keep the skin moisturized and supported without causing irritation.
I also realized that physical exfoliants, like scrubs, are usually a no-go anywhere near the eyes. If you do want to address fine lines or discoloration, chemical exfoliants formulated for sensitive areas are a gentler way to go.
5) Overlooking allergies and sinus issues
This one took me by surprise. Growing up in Texas, I’m no stranger to seasonal allergies.
But it wasn’t until I spoke with a dermatologist who pointed out that chronic allergies can cause blood vessels under the eyes to dilate, leading to that familiar dark or purplish tint. On top of that, frequent sneezing or rubbing your eyes adds extra pressure, making the situation worse.
If you suspect allergies might be at play, consider talking to a healthcare professional or allergist. Simple interventions like using an air purifier, taking an antihistamine, or even rinsing your nose with saline can make a huge difference.
For me, tackling my allergies not only helped with congestion and headaches—it also made my face look less tired overall.
6) Sleeping the wrong way—or not enough
Most of us know that a lack of sleep makes us look more drained. But dermatologists also point out that how you sleep can matter.
If you tend to lie face-down all night, fluid can pool around your eyes, causing puffiness that casts shadows. Even lying on your side with your face smooshed into the pillow can contribute.
I once tried switching to sleeping on my back with a slightly elevated pillow, and though it felt odd at first, I started noticing less puffiness in the morning. Of course, it’s not always easy to control what you do in your sleep—I still end up on my stomach sometimes.
But aiming for at least seven hours of rest and sleeping on your back is a straightforward way to reduce fluid buildup.
I’m also mindful of the quality of my rest. A few times, I’ve tried winding down with a warm bath or reading a paperback (rather than scrolling on my phone) before lights out. I can tell you from personal experience, quality sleep really does show on your face.
7) Stressing out and neglecting mental health
Stress is one of those quiet saboteurs that creeps into all areas of life—including how our skin looks. When we’re overwhelmed, our bodies produce more cortisol, which can affect everything from how we retain fluids to how well we sleep. Those physical changes show up quickly, often in the form of dark, puffy eyes.
From what I’ve read in places like Psychology Today, prolonged stress can also lead to habits like mindless snacking or rubbing your eyes when fatigued, both of which intensify the problem. I know how tricky it can be to juggle responsibilities and still find time to decompress.
But the difference a short meditation session or a quick walk outside can make is significant. Even a few minutes of deep breathing in between tasks can help your mind reset—sometimes giving your under-eyes a break, too.
8) Not being consistent (and giving up too soon)
It’s tempting to try a new eye cream for a couple of nights, not see immediate results, and toss it into the clutter of half-used products. I’ve definitely been guilty of this.
But dermatologists emphasize that addressing under-eye discoloration isn’t an overnight fix. Consistency is key, whether you’re applying a topical treatment, adjusting your diet, or wearing sunscreen every day.
The under-eye area can be a bit stubborn, and the skin cycle (the time it takes for skin cells to turn over) is roughly a month. For noticeable improvements, you may need at least a few weeks—sometimes even longer if the issue has built up over time.
Tracking progress with photos or notes can help you stay motivated. I find that when I remember the bigger picture of healthy habits and consistent care, the results eventually speak for themselves.
Wrapping up
Dealing with persistent shadows under your eyes can feel like a never-ending struggle, but making a few mindful tweaks can bring genuine change. Whether it’s sleeping better, addressing allergies, or simply being gentler in how you apply and remove products, each positive step adds up.
If you recognized one or more of these mistakes in your own routine, don’t be discouraged—just take it as a helpful nudge to steer yourself in a better direction. In my experience, real transformation happens when you commit to the small, daily habits that support your skin from the inside out.
Stay patient, stay consistent, and let each success—however small—remind you that brighter days (and brighter under-eyes) are totally within reach.
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