Pigmented Dark Circles: 5 Dermatological Ingredients That Truly Make a Difference
The eye contour is a delicate area, four times thinner than the rest of the face, and one of the first to show signs of fatigue or aging. In Black, brown, and mixed skin tones, pigmented dark circles are particularly common and often more visible. Their origin is multifactorial: increased melanin production, sluggish blood microcirculation, and dryness that further weakens this area.
In response, Laboratoire IN’OYA focused on active ingredients capable of targeting hyperpigmentation, microcirculation, and hydration. Among them, five stand out for their proven effectiveness: niacinamide, acetyl glucosamine, caffeine, hyaluronic acid, and oligopeptide-68. Used alone or in synergy, these molecules represent a real breakthrough in correcting pigmented dark circles and restoring radiance to the eyes of melanin-rich skin types.
Niacinamide: The Universal Brightener for Pigmented Skin
Niacinamide, also known as vitamin B3, is one of the most versatile dermatological ingredients. Its role in treating pigmented dark circles is particularly relevant. Unlike harsh depigmenting agents that can trigger pigment rebound in darker skin, niacinamide gently limits melanin transfer to surface skin cells.
Additionally, niacinamide improves skin tone uniformity and strengthens the skin barrier. By reducing water loss, it protects the eye contour from dryness—a common issue for dark skin types. It's a double-action ingredient: correcting pigmentation while preserving skin balance.
Acetyl Glucosamine: A Gentle and Effective Brightening Booster
Though less known to the public, acetyl glucosamine is an essential ingredient in modern dermatological formulas. Combined with niacinamide, it acts as a powerful enhancer of brightening efficacy. Together, they reduce melanin activity and even out the tone around the eyes.
Acetyl glucosamine is particularly interesting because it lacks the side effects of more aggressive agents like hydroquinone. It's perfectly suited to depigmenting care for Black and mixed-race skin, where safety and gentleness are key.
Caffeine: The Anti-Fatigue Active That Boosts Microcirculation
While pigmentation plays a major role in dark under-eye circles, poor microcirculation is another key factor. This is where caffeine comes in—a renowned anti-fatigue ingredient. It stimulates local blood flow, promoting drainage and reducing puffiness.
In those prone to bluish or purplish circles, often caused by vascular stagnation, caffeine visibly improves the eye area. Its antioxidant power also shields skin from free radicals caused by pollution, stress, and UV rays. In just 28 days of regular use, caffeine helps achieve a more rested, brighter, and decongested look.
Hyaluronic Acid: The Intense Hydrator That Smooths Fine Lines
A staple in dermatology, hyaluronic acid is naturally present in the skin and known for its exceptional ability to retain moisture. Around the eyes, it plays a key role in compensating for the dryness often found in dark and mixed skin tones.
Contrary to popular belief, oily skin can still have a very dry eye area, accentuating fine lines and the appearance of dark circles. By delivering deep hydration, hyaluronic acid plumps the tissue, smooths dehydration lines, and refreshes the eye contour. It also strengthens the skin barrier against external aggressors.
Oligopeptide-68: Innovative Peptide for Stubborn Pigmentation
This biomimetic peptide is specially designed to target resistant pigmentation disorders. Acting at the core of melanin production, oligopeptide-68 helps reduce the intensity of persistent brown circles—often the most difficult to treat in pigmented skin.
Beyond its brightening power, it restores radiance and evenness to the under-eye area. It's part of a new generation of active ingredients offering visible results while respecting the sensitivity of melanin-rich skin.
Conclusion
Pigmented dark circles in Black and mixed-race skin require a targeted, respectful approach tailored to their unique biology. The combination of niacinamide, acetyl glucosamine, caffeine, hyaluronic acid, and oligopeptide-68 provides a complete dermatological response: fading hyperpigmentation, boosting circulation, and delivering deep hydration.
These five key ingredients do more than enhance the eye area—they transform the skin’s quality over time, revealing the full radiance and vitality of pigmented skin.
Discover our expert 3‑in‑1 eye treatment for dark circles, puffiness, and discoloration around the eyes.
