Routine guide

Under-Eye Dark Circles routine (AM/PM)

Medically reviewed by Dr. Charu Sharma, Head of Dermatology · CureSkin · 6 July 2026

A commonly-advised routine structure

☀️ Morning (AM)

Gentle cleanser
Targeted active, if advised
Moisturiser
Broad-spectrum sunscreen — essential in the Indian sun

🌙 Night (PM)

Cleanser
Treatment active
Moisturiser

⚠️ Go slow

Introduce one active at a time
Patch-test new products
Do not layer clashing actives

Ingredients commonly recommended for under-eye dark circles

Retinol / Retinal (Vitamin A derivatives) — Commonly recommended for targeting fine lines, wrinkles, hyperpigmentation and improving skin texture under the eye (with caution/patch test
Vitamin C — Commonly advised for brightening and evening out the under-eye area and reducing discoloration.
Caffeine / Coffee — Commonly recommended to reduce puffiness and the appearance of dark circles by improving blood flow.
Hyaluronic Acid — Commonly advised for hydrating and plumping the delicate under-eye skin.
Vitamin E — Commonly included as an antioxidant to nourish and protect under-eye skin.
Vitamin K — Commonly recommended to help even out dark spots and address discoloration.
Peptides / Collagen Peptides — Commonly advised to firm, smooth and improve elasticity of under-eye skin.
Aloe Vera — Commonly recommended for hydrating and improving skin elasticity.
Glycerin — Commonly advised as a hydrating humectant for the under-eye area.
Citric Acid — Commonly included to help improve skin texture and tone.
Antioxidants (general) — Commonly recommended to nourish, protect and address signs of aging in the under-eye region.

Full Under-Eye Dark Circles guide with sources → · Check your own routine for conflicts →

Commonly advised to avoid

Fragrance — commonly advised to avoid for sensitive under-eye skin
Alcohol — commonly flagged for sensitive users
Retinol if you have retinol sensitivity — caution and patch test commonly advised
Parabens and silicones — products free of these are commonly preferred
Skipping a patch test before using new products — commonly cautioned against

🇮🇳 For Indian skin & climate

For Indian and pigmentation-prone skin, sources note the under-eye area is especially delicate and prone to pigmentation, puffiness and sun damage. Sun exposure is commonly cited as a contributing cause, so repairing sun damage and brightening pigmentation are emphasized; non-comedogenic, dermatologist-tested formulations and consulting a dermatologist for persistent dark circles are commonly advised in the Indian market.

Frequently asked

What is a good routine order for under-eye dark circles?

A common structure is cleanse → treat → moisturise → sunscreen in the morning, and cleanse → treat → moisturise at night. Introduce actives one at a time.

Is this a personalised plan?

No — it is a general structure from published guidance. A free CureSkin dermatologist assessment can tailor it to your skin, climate and history.

General educational information for Indian skin, compiled from published dermatology literature and structured ingredient data. Not medical advice or a diagnosis.