Have you noticed blue, purple or pink tones underneath your eyes?

Many people assume all dark circles are caused by pigmentation, but this isn't always the case. If your under-eye area appears blue, purple, red or pink rather than brown, you may be experiencing what are known as vascular dark circles.

Understanding the difference between vascular dark circles and pigmented dark circles is important because the underlying cause is completely different.

In this guide, we'll explain what vascular dark circles are, what causes them, how to identify them and what may help improve their appearance.

What Are Vascular Dark Circles?

Vascular dark circles are dark circles that are caused by visible blood vessels beneath the skin rather than excess pigmentation.

Because the skin around the eyes is incredibly thin, underlying blood vessels can become more visible, creating a blue, purple, pink or reddish appearance beneath the eyes.

Unlike pigmented dark circles, which appear brown due to melanin, vascular dark circles are linked to circulation and the visibility of blood vessels.

What Do Vascular Dark Circles Look Like?

Vascular dark circles often appear:

• Blue
• Purple
• Pink
• Red-violet

The colour may become more noticeable in certain lighting conditions or when you're feeling tired, stressed or unwell.

Some people notice that their dark circles look worse first thing in the morning or after a poor night's sleep.

What Causes Vascular Dark Circles?

There are several factors that can contribute to vascular dark circles under the eyes.

1. Thin Under-Eye Skin

The skin beneath the eyes is naturally thinner than most areas of the face.

Because of this, blood vessels underneath the skin can become more visible.

For some people, this is simply due to genetics and natural skin structure.

2. Poor Circulation

Restricted blood flow around the eye area can contribute to a darker appearance beneath the eyes.

When blood vessels become more visible through the skin, the area may appear blue or purple.

This is one reason vascular dark circles are often linked to tiredness and fatigue.

3. Lack of Sleep

Sleep deprivation doesn't necessarily cause vascular dark circles, but it can make them appear more noticeable.

A lack of sleep may lead to:

• Duller skin
• Increased visibility of blood vessels
• Puffiness
• A tired appearance

This can intensify the appearance of blue or purple under eyes.

4. Allergies

Allergies are a common contributor to vascular dark circles.

Inflammation caused by allergies can increase blood flow around the eye area and make blood vessels appear more prominent.

This is sometimes referred to as "allergic shiners."

Common allergy triggers include:

• Pollen
• Dust mites
• Pet dander
• Seasonal allergies

5. Dehydration

When the skin becomes dehydrated, it can appear thinner and less plump.

This may make underlying blood vessels more visible, contributing to the appearance of vascular dark circles.

6. Genetics

For some individuals, vascular dark circles are largely hereditary.

If close family members have blue or purple under-eye circles, genetics may play a role in how visible blood vessels appear beneath the skin.

Vascular Dark Circles vs Pigmented Dark Circles

One of the easiest ways to distinguish between vascular dark circles and pigmented dark circles is by looking at the colour.

Vascular Dark Circles

• Blue
• Purple
• Pink
• Red

Usually linked to visible blood vessels and circulation.

Pigmented Dark Circles

• Brown
• Dark brown
• Grey-brown

Usually linked to excess melanin production.

Many people actually have a combination of both.

Why Do My Under Eyes Look Blue?

Blue under eyes are often caused by visible veins beneath thin skin.

Because veins carry deoxygenated blood, they can appear blue through the skin's surface.

This effect can become more noticeable when:

• You're tired
• You're dehydrated
• You're unwell
• The skin becomes thinner with age

Why Do My Under Eyes Look Purple?

Purple under eyes are commonly associated with vascular dark circles.

This colour can occur when blood vessels are particularly visible beneath the skin.

Factors such as fatigue, allergies and circulation can make purple under-eye circles appear more pronounced.

Why Do My Under Eyes Look Pink?

Pink under eyes are often linked to inflammation.

This can occur as a result of:

• Allergies
• Eye rubbing
• Skin sensitivity
• Irritation

The increased blood flow to the area can create a pink or reddish appearance beneath the eyes.

Can Vascular Dark Circles Be Improved?

The appearance of vascular dark circles may improve by addressing contributing factors such as:

• Sleep quality
• Hydration
• Allergies
• Skin barrier health

Results vary from person to person and depend on the underlying cause.

Because vascular dark circles are linked to blood vessels rather than pigmentation, they may respond differently compared with pigmented dark circles.

Supporting Healthy-Looking Under Eyes

Maintaining healthy, hydrated skin around the eyes may help improve the overall appearance of the under-eye area.

A gentle skincare routine can help support:

• Skin hydration
• Skin comfort
• Skin barrier function
• A smoother-looking under-eye area

The delicate eye area benefits from ingredients that nourish and support the skin without causing irritation.

Common Mistakes That Can Make Vascular Dark Circles Look Worse

Rubbing Your Eyes

Repeated rubbing can increase irritation and make blood vessels more visible.

Not Managing Allergies

Ignoring allergy symptoms may contribute to inflammation around the eyes.

Poor Sleep Habits

Consistently poor sleep can make vascular dark circles appear more prominent.

Dehydration

Not drinking enough water may contribute to a tired-looking appearance around the eyes.

Final Thoughts

If your under eyes appear blue, purple or pink rather than brown, you may be experiencing vascular dark circles.

Unlike pigmented dark circles, vascular dark circles are caused by visible blood vessels beneath the skin and are often influenced by factors such as sleep, hydration, allergies, circulation and genetics.

Understanding the difference between vascular and pigmented dark circles can help you choose the most appropriate skincare approach and set realistic expectations for your results. You can read more here on genetic dark circles

The first step towards improving the appearance of your under-eye area is identifying the type of dark circles you have and understanding what may be contributing to them.