Skin condition under the eyes goes viral, and doctors warn it could signal hidden health issue

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Darkunder-eye circlesmay be more than a cosmetic concern.Doctors say they can sometimes signal low iron stores, a condition that’s gone viral on social media under the name “ferritin face.”

Experts say there’s some truth behind the trend with important caveats.

Ferritin can be thought of as the body’s “iron storage vault,” according to Dr.Josef Hadeed, a double board-certifiedplastic surgeonat Hadeed Plastic Surgery in Beverly Hills, California.It is a protein that stores iron inside the body’s cells and releases it when needed.

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“When ferritin levels drop, the body struggles to produce hemoglobin, which is the iron-rich protein within yourred blood cellsthat transports oxygen to the tissues,�

Low iron levels can compromise skin elasticity, which can make the tissue appear thinner and less resilient, the doctor said.

Dark under-eye circles can sometimes signal low iron stores, a condition that’s gone viral on social media with the name “ferritin face.”(iStock)

When hemoglobin is low, the skin can lose its healthy color and appear pale, making the naturally darker tissue beneath the eyes more noticeable, Hadeed noted.

Symptoms of low ferritin

Besidespale skinand dark under-eye circles, other symptoms may signal that someone is lacking iron.

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“The severity of these symptoms generally increases as ferritin decreases,�

Low energy,fatigue, dizziness, lightheadedness, headaches, fainting, brittle or thin nails, hair loss, cravings to chew ice and restless legs syndrome are a few signs, according to Thomas.

“When ferritin levels drop, the body struggles to produce hemoglobin, which is the iron-rich protein within your red blood cells that transports oxygen to the tissues,�(iStock)

“Some patients also experience decreased exercise tolerance, difficulty concentrating or shortness of breath with exertion,” he said.

Other symptoms can include pounding or “whooshing” in the ears, a sore or smooth tongue, rapid heartbeat, intolerance to cold andpoor sleep, according to the American Society of Hematology.

Underlying conditions

Beyond cosmetic concerns, ferritin face may signal an underlying medical condition, including chronic bleeding, gastrointestinal disorders or cancers or malabsorption, according to hematological experts.

With the rise in bariatric surgery, more patients are developing iron deficiency due to impaired iron absorption, Thomas said.Certain over-the-counter acid-suppressingmedications, including proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) and H2-receptor blockers, may also contribute to low iron.

“This is not something that someone should self-treat.”

While treating iron deficiency is important, identifying and addressing its underlying cause is equally critical, he said.

“Whenever possible, I work with my patients to determine why their iron deficiency developed so we can reduce the likelihood that it will recur,�“This often involves collaboration with gastroenterologists, gynecologists or other specialists to evaluate for sources of blood loss or malabsorption.”

Pregnancy, heavy menstrual bleeding and frequent blood donation can also contribute to lower iron levels.Vegetarians, vegans and those who follow diets that do not include iron-rich foods may also be at risk, according to the American Society of Hematologists.

Diagnosis and treatment

If a person thinks they may have low ferritin, it is important to see a physician.

“This is not something that someone should self-treat, and I always advise them to seek professional help,” Hadeed advised.“Unlike water-soluble vitamins, the body has no easy mechanism to excrete excess iron, andover-supplementationcan lead to increased levels of iron in the body, which can affect the liver and heart.”

When hemoglobin is low, the skin can lose its healthy color and appear pale, making the naturally darker tissue beneath the eyes more noticeable.(iStock)

A simple blood test by a healthcare professional can determine iron levels.Further evaluation may include stool and urine tests to look for blood, along with endoscopy to examine the esophagus, stomach and colon.Women may also undergo agynecological evaluation, according to experts.

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Treatment for iron deficiency may include oral supplementation and, in cases of severe anemia, intravenous (IV) iron or blood transfusions.

“The biggest drawback of oral iron is gastrointestinal side effects, including nausea, constipation, abdominal discomfort and stomach upset,” Thomas noted.

“These side effects can often be minimized by taking iron every other day rather than daily, a strategy that also maintains excellent absorption for many patients.”

He also recommends spacing them apart from calcium supplements, dairy products and antacids, which can affect absorption.