Dark circles aren’t as common in babies as they are in adults. If you find them, however, the cause most often is something that’s not of concern. They are usually caused by allergies and the baby not having enough sleep or being tired. In some rare cases they could indicate an underlying problem.
Dark circles are blemishes around the baby’s eyes that are more prominent under the eyes. There are several factors that can cause dark circles by affecting the underlying anatomy of the region. The sensitive skin around the baby’s eyes is called periorbital skin that is often thin and delicate. Underneath that skin are tiny blood vessels called infraorbital venous plexus which connect with the nose. When this region is irritated, the blood vessels swell up and appear prominent as they come closer to the skin which causes the entire area to appear as a dark circle. Dark circles can appear when some babies have nasal congesting caused by allergens such as pollen. Sinusitis can also trigger dark circles when the sinus cavities, which are hollow areas around the nose, become clogged and get infected by bacteria and other irritants.
Yes, it’s totally normal for babies to have dark circles around their eyes. The thin skin under their eye which is richly supplied with tiny blood vessels can sometimes pop up as dark circles. If there is a family history of sensitive under eye skin and dark circles, then the baby can be expected to have dark circles at some point.
Most often dark circles are not a cause for concern. They are caused by tiredness, allergies or could just be genetic. In extremely rare cases however, dark circles can be caused by a tumor. If you notice that your baby has an unusually deep dark circle, talk to your doctor immediately.
Here are some common causes of dark circles in babies:
There are few ways you can lessen your baby’s dark circles:
Except for the ones caused by allergies and tiredness, dark circles cannot be prevented. Many mothers try homemade pastes such as ubtan to remove dark circles which are not effective and can also be harmful.
It is common for parents to associate fever and teething with dark circles but there is no evidence from research that they are related.
No, they are not related to dark circles. Puffy eyes can be caused by long spells of crying or sleeping in an awkward position.
Contrary to the popular opinion among parents, dark circles in babies are rarely an indicator of poor health or sleep routines.
Under eye bags could just be fat under the skin under your baby’s eyes and have nothing to do with dark circles.
Dark circles in almost all cases are not of concern and will resolve on their own when the underlying trigger subsides.