The delicate skin under our eyes often tells the first story of fatigue, stress, and age. Dark circles and puffiness are two of the most common concerns people face, yet they don’t always have the same causes—or solutions. Understanding why they appear is the first step toward treating them effectively.

1. Genetics & Skin Structure

For many, under-eye circles are hereditary. Thinner skin or naturally higher pigment around the eyes can make blood vessels more visible, creating a shadowed effect. Similarly, the natural fat pads under the eyes can shift with age or bone structure, making puffiness more noticeable.

Solution: Targeted eye creams with peptides and collagen-supporting ingredients can help strengthen and thicken the under-eye skin, reducing visibility of blood vessels.

2. Fatigue & Lifestyle Factors

Lack of sleep, dehydration, and high salt intake are common contributors to under-eye bags and circles. Poor rest slows circulation and causes blood to pool, while excess sodium leads to water retention and puffiness. Stress and alcohol consumption can make these effects even worse.

Solution: Lifestyle adjustments paired with energizing ingredients like caffeine or coffee seed extract can stimulate circulation, reducing puffiness and shadows.

3. Aging & Collagen Loss

As we age, collagen production declines. Skin becomes thinner, elasticity decreases, and natural fat pads shift—making both circles and puffiness more pronounced. Wrinkles can also deepen the shadowing effect, creating the appearance of darker under-eyes.

Solution: Look for advanced peptides (like Acetyl Hexapeptide-8 or Tetrapeptide-5) that firm and hydrate, alongside antioxidants such as Vitamin K2 to support repair and brighten the under-eye area.

4. Pigmentation & Inflammation

Hyperpigmentation is another major cause of dark circles, especially in medium to darker skin tones. It can be triggered by genetics, sun exposure, or post-inflammatory pigmentation from eczema or allergies. Chronic inflammation from rubbing the eyes can worsen both circles and puffiness.

Solution: Brightening agents such as niacinamide, licorice extract, or tranexamic acid (for severe pigmentation) help reduce discoloration. Calming botanicals like eyebright or chamomile soothe irritation and prevent further damage.

5. Environmental Stressors

UV rays, pollution, and oxidative stress all accelerate skin aging and weaken the under-eye area. Constant exposure to environmental aggressors damages collagen, increases pigmentation, and worsens inflammation, making circles and puffiness more noticeable.

Solution: Antioxidants and barrier-strengthening ingredients, such as plant stem cells and natural oils, protect against environmental damage while keeping the skin hydrated and resilient.

The Laleva Natural Approach

At Laleva Natural, we believe that addressing under-eye concerns requires more than one ingredient. Our Age Care Eye Cream blends advanced peptides, Vitamin K2, Eyebright Extract, caffeine, and soothing botanicals in a lightweight, nourishing formula. It works across multiple pathways—hydrating the skin barrier, calming inflammation, stimulating circulation, and targeting pigmentation. The result? Brighter, smoother, and more refreshed eyes that look as vibrant as you feel.

✨ Key Takeaway:
Dark circles and puffiness aren’t caused by just one factor—they’re the result of genetics, lifestyle, aging, pigmentation, and environmental stress. By understanding the root causes, and choosing products designed with synergistic, science-backed ingredients, you can achieve brighter, firmer, and more youthful-looking eyes.