Smoking can cause an individual to develop dark circles under their eyes. Periocular dark circles can contribute to the appearance of fatigue. Thankfully, dark circle removal remains an option. That’s right! Get rid of those pesky dark circles and restore your outer appearance with dark circle removal.
Ceasing smoking may reduce your risk of developing dark circles, but if circles do appear, consider having the dark circles removed with oculofacial plastic surgery. This type of surgery is designed to treat the areas around the eyes, from the eyelids to the tear ducts.
Smoking Can Cause Premature Dark Circles
The Journal of Dermatological Science reveals that tobacco smoke causes premature skin aging. In fact, smoking leads to collagen, elastic fiber, and proteoglycan degradation. Additionally, smoking has been associated with conditions such as:
- Acne
- Melanoma
- Oral cancer
- Hair loss
How Smoking Damages Your Skin and Causes Dark Circles
Smoking cigarettes, e-cigarettes, or a hookah decreases skin quality, causing a person’s skin to age. Smokers may also notice wounds heal more slowly. Not only can smoking cause dark circles, but it may also lead to various health concerns, including decreased blood flow to the skin.
Smoking adversely affects the skin and is associated with many dermatological conditions. A study on the effects of smoking revealed that skin spots around the eye and eyebrow were more likely to develop in smokers compared to non-smokers, according to the National Library of Medicine.
Reduced Blood Flow and Oxygen Supply
Even with infrequent use, smoking can constrict the blood vessels in the outermost skin layers. This, in turn, impairs the delivery of oxygen and nutrients to affected areas. The under-eye area is particularly vulnerable because it is exposed to the elements and requires healthy skin turnover to maintain a youthful appearance.
Collagen and Elastin Breakdown
The 4,000+ chemicals in cigarette smoke can contribute to lasting damage to the skin under the eyes, leading to dark circles. Many of these chemicals damage collagen and elastin in particular. Without these essential proteins, your skin loses its natural firmness and elasticity.
Uneven Skin Tone and Pigmentation
The carbon monoxide in smoke can displace oxygen in your bloodstream. Over time, this can lead to decreased cellular health. The result is a worsened or uneven complexion that is more susceptible to dark circles.
Dehydration and Barrier Damage
The toxins in cigarette smoke strip the skin of its natural oils, leading to issues with its appearance. Unhealthy skin is more likely to lead to dark circles than well-hydrated skin.
Free Radical Damage
The free radicals in cigarette smoke damage your DNA and accelerate aging. This can worsen your blood vessel health, skin health, and even the health of underlying tissues.
Smoking Also Impairs Sleep
Smoking can worsen sleep quality, which can cause dark circles to develop. Not only does nicotine act as a stimulant, but smokers also have a higher risk of sleep apnea. Smoking causes sleep disruptions, and nightly withdrawal can occur.
How to Remove Dark Circles Caused by Smoking
Lower eyelid surgery is the surest way to remove dark circles from the skin. The procedure removes or repositions fat, skin, and tissues under the eyes, removing premature dark circles in the process.
The demand for cosmetic procedures grows each year. Due to lower costs, easier access, and social media promotion, more people are choosing cosmetic surgeries to achieve the results they want.
Dark Circle Removal With Lower Eyelid Surgery
Before surgical dark circles removal, MedlinePlus states an individual must stop smoking or using tobacco 2 to 3 weeks before and after surgery. The reason? It aids in healing, promoting positive skin health!
Patients can have either local or general anesthesia for the procedure, depending on their health, their preferences, and surgical complexity. Local anesthesia numbs the surgical area, while general anesthesia puts you to sleep during the surgery. Most procedures allow people to go home the same day.
At home, self-recovery will include:
- Placing cold packs on areas of swelling
- Avoiding activities that raise blood pressure
- Following special bathing instructions
- Abstaining from alcohol for at least 1 week after surgery
- Attending follow-up appointments with your doctor
About 2 weeks after surgery, you can resume normal daily functions, take part in social activities, and return to work. Those experiencing pain, swelling, or worsening of vision should immediately contact their doctor.
Lower Eyelid Surgery Removes Dark Circles Safely
The safest way to prevent dark circles from forming? Quit smoking! Those who stop smoking will see positive effects, including healthier skin containing fewer blemishes, dark circles, and wrinkles.
Receive Oculofacial Plastic Surgery Treatment Today
If you have dark circles around your eyes and want them removed, choose oculofacial plastic surgeon Dr. Sohrab. Discover how dark circles can be removed and just how radiant your skin can be when you contact us today.