The Dark Circle Guide

Dark circles are one of the most common eye-area concerns and can make you look tired, even after a full night's sleep. While many people associate dark circles with fatigue, they can also be influenced by visible discoloration, dryness, the appearance of thinner skin, and natural under-eye shadows.

The good news? A consistent skincare routine can help visibly brighten the under-eye area and reduce the appearance of dark circles. Here's what causes dark circles, how to care for them, and which RoC eye formulas are designed to help.

Dark circles refer to visible discoloration or shadowing beneath the eyes. They can appear in different tones—including blue, brown, red, and grey—and may become more noticeable when skin looks dry, dull, or fatigued.

Because several factors can contribute to their appearance, understanding what's causing your dark circles can help you choose the right eye care routine.

Visible Discoloration

Some dark circles appear as uneven tone or visible discoloration beneath the eyes, creating a darker appearance than the surrounding skin.

Fatigue

Lack of sleep and everyday stress can leave the eye area looking less refreshed, making dark circles appear more noticeable.

Dehydration

When the delicate skin around the eyes looks dehydrated, it can appear dull, and make

 shadows and fine dehydration lines more visible.

Loss of Firmness

Over time, skin around the eyes may appear less firm, allowing natural shadows beneath the eyes to become more pronounced.

A consistent routine can help brighten the eye area and improve the overall appearance of dark circles.

• Use an eye cream designed specifically for the delicate eye area.
• Apply products gently using your ring finger or the product's applicator.
• Keep the eye area hydrated to help it look smoother and more refreshed.
• Wear SPF 30 or higher every morning to help protect your skincare routine.

Vitamin C

Helps visibly brighten the under-eye area for a more radiant, refreshed appearance.

Retinol

Targets the appearance of grey tones associated with dark circles, helping improve the overall look of the eye area.

Proxygen

A revitalizing ingredient that targets the appearance of blue and yellow dark circles by energizing the look of under eyes, leaving skin visibly refreshed with a healthy-looking radiance.

DERM CORREXION® Eye Repair Dark Circle Cream

Best for persistent-looking dark circles and visible signs of fatigue. Developed with Dermatologists & Cosmetic Surgeons, this formula is designed to visibly reduce the appearance of blue, brown, red, and grey dark circles while helping eyes look brighter, more rested, and younger-looking.

Revive + Glow Eye Balm

Ideal for morning routines and on-the-go application. Its touchless balm helps visibly brighten the eye area while reducing the appearance of dark circles for a refreshed look.

RETINOL CORREXION® Line Smoothing Eye Cream

A multitasking eye cream that helps improve the appearance of dark circles while also addressing fine lines, wrinkles, and under-eye puffiness.

DERM CORREXION® Dual Eye Cream

A two-step eye treatment designed for both upper and lower eye concerns, helping improve the appearance of dark circles while addressing eyelid firmness.

1. Cleanser
2. Eye Cream
3. Serum
4. SPF (Morning) or Night Cream (Evening)

If you're new to Retinol, start slowly to help your skin adjust.

• Begin every other night, following product directions.
• Increase frequency gradually as tolerated.
• Wear SPF 30 or higher every morning.
• If dryness or redness occurs, pause use and restart with less frequent application.
• If irritation occurs, check with your doctor and/or dermatologist
• View our Retinol Guide for more specific instructions