Periorbital hyperchromia (dark eye circles) is a recurrent complaint in dermatologic consultations, as it interferes with patients’ self esteem. The eyes are central in the communication process, and dark eye circles are very noticeable and make the face look tired; thus they have a considerable impact on patients’ quality of life. Although many treatment options are available, publications on periorbital hyperpigmentation are scarce, and the vast majority lack a sound scientific basis to prove their efficacy and duration. This article analyzes the palpebral region’s anatomy and periorbital hyperchromia’s epidemiology, etiopathogeny, and treatments recommended in the literature.

Keywords: HYPERPIGMENTATION, EYELIDS, SKIN PIGMENTATION, PRODUCTS FOR EYES AREAS

Introduction: Periorbital hyperpigmentation is a multifactorial dyschromia that involves the eyelid''''''''s vascularization and melanin hyperpigmentation. Objective:To compare the efficacy of 2.5% thioglycolic acid, 2% hydroquinone, 2% Haloxyl, and 10% thioglycolic acid peel in the reduction of dark circles. Methods: Eighty patients were divided into four groups. Groups 1, 2, and 3 underwent treatments with 2.5% thioglycolic acid, 2% hydroquinone, and 2% Haloxyl, respectively. Group 4 underwent five biweekly sessions of chemical exfoliation with 10% thioglycolic acid. All patients were evaluated by two physicians after the treatment: the one who performed the treatment, and another who was blinded to the outcome. The assessment was carried out using photographs and a clinical satisfaction questionnaire distributed to the patients. Results: The best results occurred in Groups 1 and 2. Group 3 had slightly inferior results, possibly due to the low concentration used. Group 4 had the least significant results, however this outcome may have been influenced by the higher age of the group members and the lack of daily use of medications. Conclusions: There is still not an ideal treatment for dark circles, with the currently available therapeutic resources only alleviating the difference in color between the lower eyelids and the rest of the face.

Keywords: HYPERPIGMENTATION, SKIN PIGMENTATION, EYELIDS