Does Sertraline cause dark circles? (3+ tips to manage)

In this brief article, we will answer the question, “Does Sertraline cause dark circles?” and other questions, like Is there any relation between dark circles and Sertraline?; What factors contribute to dark circles while on Sertraline?; How to manage dark circles while taking Sertraline?

Does Sertraline cause dark circles? 

No, Sertraline (also known as Zoloft) is not directly associated with dark circles under the eyes. However, Sertraline can cause sleep changes in some people, which may provide the basis for dark circles to occur or exacerbate, but this side effect has not been commonly reported due to Sertraline use. 

Sertraline, which belongs to a class called selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), is a commonly prescribed antidepressant used for various psychiatric disorders, anxiety disorders, eating disorders, and possibly in substance abuse treatment. This is widely prescribed due to its advantages over its predecessors (1). 

Dark circles are described as a homogeneous, pigmented and dark appearance of the skin around the eyes particularly the periorbital area. There can be many different factors, like fatigue, dehydration, ageing etc., that can contribute to the formation of dark circles (2).

If you are noticing dark circles under your eyes, medically they may not be of much concern. However, if they are associated with any other symptoms like insomnia, twitching of the eyes or dry eyes, you should consider reaching out to your healthcare provider.

Is there any relation between dark circles and Sertraline?

There is not much research available on the occurrence of dark circles due to Sertraline. However, cases have been reported in which Sertraline has been seen to cause sleep changes, which may be a cause of dark circles.

Research does show that Sertraline has been associated with increasing the time it takes you to fall asleep i.e., sleep latency (3). Increased difficulty in going to sleep, increased number of awakenings during the night, or increased difficulty returning to sleep after awakening has also been reported with Sertraline use (4). All these factors can individually or collectively contribute to the appearance of dark circles under the eyes.

Another study on sleep disorders also observed that SSRIs, including sertraline, can cause insomnia, and not getting enough sleep due to insomnia can lead to the skin looking pale and dull, especially skin that is thin, like the skin under the eyes, leading to dark circles (2,5). 

It is important to note that every medicine affects every person differently, and most people on Sertraline may not experience any of the above-described sleep disturbances contributing to dark circles. It is also important to keep in mind that not everyone who may have dark circles, will have a sleep problem, or a medication as a cause to them.

What factors contribute to dark circles?

There are various factors which may contribute to the appearance of or worsening of dark circles, whether or not you take Sertraline (2):

• General fatigue and dehydration – If you are tired, or consuming a lower quantity of water than needed by your body, then it can show on your skin, and the skin under your eyes can look more pale and dull than normal.
• Lack of sleep – Many factors can cause insomnia and sleep disturbances in individuals, and when this goes on for a prolonged period, the lack of sleep can cause a decreased concentration of oxygen to the skin around the eyes, which can make the blood vessels under your eyes more visible due to the deoxygenation, leading to dark circles.
• Ageing – As you grow older there is a loss of subcutaneous fat around the eyes, along with skin atrophy, which can cause visibility of the underlying capillary network, giving a bluish colour to the skin.
• Increased pigmentation – If you have any allergic condition there may be an increase in pigmentation around your eyes. This pigmentation may be caused by rubbing and scratching around the eyes and also by the accumulation of fluid under the eyes due to facial allergy.

These factors can contribute to dark circles in anyone, without any relation to the fact that they are using Sertraline or not, causing concern for some patients. They can also cause dissatisfaction and decreased quality of life (6).

How to manage dark circles?

While you may not be able to get rid of your dark circles completely, here are some tips to manage dark circles and prevent them from increasing:

Getting plenty of sleep

A lack of sleep can lead to more exhausted-looking eyes, and also cause the appearance of darker circles under the eyes. If your sleep schedule is a bit off, try coming back on schedule and make sure that your body is getting enough hours of sleep (7).

Managing stress and anxiety levels

Excess stress and anxiety can cause the body to divert the blood supply of the face to other areas, making you look pale. Make sure you have a strategy to manage your stress and anxiety levels, like exercising, stretching, meditation, or even a creative hobby.

Reducing alcohol consumption

Alcohol abuse has been linked to hindering the body’s normal process of collagen production. This can make the thin skin around the eyes appear even thinner. If you cut back on your alcohol intake, you may gradually see an improvement in the appearance of your dark circles.

Reducing salt and potassium intake

Salt and potassium increase the fluid accumulation around the eyes, which tend to take a purple hue. Thereby increasing the appearance of dark circles. Reducing salt and potassium intake, especially first thing in the morning will have a significant impact on dark circles.

What home remedies can help manage dark circles?

There are various home remedies which can help manage dark circles. A few of them are as follows:

• Green tea – Green tea is useful in managing the appearance of dark circles. It has the property to reduce inflammation and cut back redness. So next time you have a cup of green tea, keep the used teabag for your eyes (7).
• Aloe vera gel – Aloe vera gel has been proven to decrease pigmentation. It also helps the skin retain moisture and improve hydration. You can use fresh or store-bought aloe vera gel, and leave it on your dark circles for a minimum of 15 minutes daily.
• Potato – Potatoes are beneficial for collagen synthesis in the skin. Collagen repair is important to prevent excessive thinning of skin around the eyes. You can grate potatoes and use the juice obtained or you can just cut slices of potatoes and place them on your eyes.
• Cucumber – Cucumber has many benefits for the eyes. It provides hydration and cooling sensation which can reduce the appearance of blood vessels under the eyes.

What medical treatment options are available to treat dark circles?

There are also various topical medications, creams and cosmetic procedures to help with dark circles. Some of these treatments are (2):

• Bleaching creams – They use steroids and other chemicals to brighten the skin. They have hydroquinone and kojic acid, which are proven to be skin-lightening agents if used properly.
• Topical retinoic acid – Creams and serums containing retinol or related substances have been shown to reduce dark circles, fine lines and wrinkles under the eyes.
• Chemical peels – They contain a substance called alpha hydroxy acid (AHA), a chemical exfoliant used to remove dead or dull skin and provide a brightening effect.
• Laser therapy – Laser procedures can help to break the melanin cells which cause hyperpigmentation, and also to tighten any loose skin.
• Microneedling – This procedure is usually done to stimulate collagen production in the under-eye area, thus reducing the appearance of dark circles.

Please note that not all of the topical medications, creams and cosmetic procedures are safe for everyone. So you should not start using anything without consulting a healthcare professional.

What to do if you experience dark circles while on Sertraline?

If you do notice the appearance or worsening of dark circles while on Sertraline, it should not be of much concern, as the dark circles can tend to improve along with your sleep schedule. However, if the dark circles are accompanied by ocular problems such as dry eyes, eye twitching or blurry vision, you should contact your healthcare provider so that the exact cause can be determined.

Also if you experience dark circles while on Sertraline therapy, you can always use the various tips and home remedies recommended above.  But if dark circles cause major dissatisfaction or significant effect on your quality of life, then you can consult your healthcare provider about treatment options. Your primary healthcare provider may suggest some lifestyle changes, and send you to a consultant dermatologist. A dermatologist may recommend some topical medications or cosmetic procedures, based on your case evaluation.

However, please make sure to talk to your healthcare provider about the possible causes and do not stop using Sertraline, or start another medication to manage your dark circles on your own.

Conclusion

In this article, we have answered the question, “Does Sertraline cause dark circles?” and other questions, like the relation between dark circles and Sertraline. We have also talked about factors which may contribute to the appearance or worsening of dark circles and different tips and home remedies which can help in the management of dark circles.

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