Dark eye circles are round pigmented patches situated under the eye area or along the skin of the orbit of the eye. These circles usually occur as a result of tiny blood capillaries located under the surface of the skin, which may rupture, and leak red blood cells into the surrounding skin (hematoma). Red blood cells are then broken down by enzymes in the body resulting in the byproduct of a bluish pigment. The formation of dark circles under the eye circles is the result of this bluish pigment, hence the name ‘blue eye’ or ‘black eye’. Although dark eye circles are common amongst adults it can occur in children, affecting both males and females. While hematomas are responsible for the most severe darkening unde rthe eyes, any prolonged inflammation in this area will lead to darkening, either due to eye strain, lack of sleep, allergies or use of certain cosmetics.