Related Experiment Video
Updated: May 9, 2026
08:13
In Vivo Confocal Microscopy in the Diagnosis and Management of Dry Eye: A Focus on Imaging Protocols and Interpretation
Published on: November 11, 2025
Clinical analysis and classification of dark eye circle
Yau-Li Huang1, Shyue-Luen Chang, Lih Ma
1Department of Dermatology, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital and Chang Gung University College of Medicine, Taoyuan, Taiwan; Department of Cosmetic Science, Chang Gung University of Science and Technology, Taoyuan, Taiwan.
International Journal of Dermatology
|July 25, 2013
Summary
A new Dark Eye Circle (DEC) assessment score, utilizing Wood's lamp and ultrasonography, precisely classifies DEC types. This detailed classification aids physicians in selecting effective treatments for common dark eye concerns.
Area of Science:
- Dermatology
- Ophthalmology
- Aesthetic Medicine
Background:
- Dark eye circles (DEC) are a prevalent cosmetic concern lacking standardized etiological and structural classification.
- Current diagnostic methods for DEC are insufficient for precise evaluation and targeted treatment.
Purpose of the Study:
- To introduce a novel DEC Assessment Score for precise evaluation of dark eye circles.
- To classify DEC based on etiology and structural variations using Wood's lamp and ultrasonography.
- To improve treatment outcomes for dark eye circles through accurate diagnosis.
Main Methods:
- Sixty-five participants (8 males, 57 females, mean age 38.9) were enrolled.
- Dark eye circles were classified into pigmented, vascular, structural, and mixed types using Wood's lamp and ultrasonography.
- A nine-parameter scoring system evaluated clinical features including hue, puffiness, fat pads, and skin type.
Main Results:
- The mixed type of DEC was most prevalent (78%), followed by vascular (14%), pigmented (5%), and structural (3%).
- Periorbital puffiness correlated with increased pre-septal thickness (P=0.032).
- Ultrasonography confirmed protruded retroseptal fat pads in patients with infraorbital palpebral bags.
Conclusions:
- Pigmentation, vascularity, and structural elements are key contributors to dark eye circles.
- A detailed classification system for DEC types is crucial for guiding appropriate therapeutic strategies.
- The developed DEC Assessment Score offers a more precise evaluation method for dark eye concerns.
