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. 2016 Jan;9(1):49-55.

Periorbital Hyperpigmentation: A Comprehensive Review

Rashmi Sarkar  1 , Rashmi Ranjan  1 , Shilpa Garg  1 , Vijay K Garg  1 , Sidharth Sonthalia  1 , Shivani Bansal  1
Affiliations

Periorbital Hyperpigmentation: A Comprehensive Review

Rashmi Sarkar et al. J Clin Aesthet Dermatol. 2016 Jan.

Abstract

Periorbital hyperpigmentation is a commonly encountered condition. There is very little scientific data available on the clinical profile and pathogenesis of periorbital hyperpigmentation. Periorbital hyperpigmentation is caused by various exogenous and endogenous factors. The causative factors include genetic or heredity, excessive pigmentation, postinflammatory hyperpigmentation secondary to atopic and allergic contact dermatitis, periorbital edema, excessive vascularity, shadowing due to skin laxity and tear trough associated with aging. There are a number of treatment options available for periorbital hyperpigmentation. Among the available alternatives to treat dark circles are topical depigmenting agents, such as hydroquinone, kojic acid, azelaic acid, and topical retinoic acid, and physical therapies, such as chemical peels, surgical corrections, and laser therapy, most of which are tried scientifically for melasma, another common condition of hyperpigmentation that occurs on the face. The aim of treatment should be to identify and treat the primary cause of hyperpigmentation as well as its contributing factors.

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Figures

Figure 1.
Figure 1.
Periorbital hyperpigmentation due to postinflammatory hyperpigmentation
Figure 2.
Figure 2.
Tear trough deformity presenting as dark circles
Figure 3.
Figure 3.
Periorbital hyperpigmentation with pigmentary demarcation line (G type)
See this image and copyright information in PMC

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