Goggle marks, often called “raccoon eyes” or goggle rings, are a familiar consequence for nearly everyone who spends time in the pool. These temporary marks appear as redness or indentations around the eye sockets, a visible sign of the secure seal necessary for clear underwater vision. While they are a minor nuisance, the duration and severity of goggle marks are a common concern. Understanding how and why these marks appear provides the insight needed to manage them effectively.
The Science Behind Goggle Marks
The formation of goggle marks is a physiological response to mechanical pressure applied to the delicate skin around the eyes. To prevent water from leaking, the goggle gaskets must create a tight seal, which compresses the soft tissue and underlying structures. This localized pressure temporarily restricts the flow of blood and fluid where the goggle rim makes contact with the skin.
When the goggles are removed, the resulting indentation is the physical impression left by the compressed skin and displaced fluid. The redness, or erythema, is due to capillaries rebounding as blood rushes back into the area that was previously restricted. This process is a temporary vascular and fluid displacement effect that the body quickly corrects.
Factors That Determine How Long Marks Last
The length of time goggle marks persist is highly variable, ranging from ten minutes to several hours. Simple redness fades quickly, but deeper indentations caused by fluid displacement take longer to resolve. The severity of the pressure applied is the most significant factor; tighter straps and longer swim sessions result in more pronounced marks.
Individual skin characteristics play a part in mark duration and visibility. Skin elasticity affects how quickly the tissue can recover after being compressed. Swimmers with thinner or less elastic skin may notice their goggle marks remain visible for longer periods.
The design of the goggle also influences pressure distribution. Racing goggles concentrate pressure onto a smaller surface, potentially causing more noticeable marks. Conversely, goggles or masks with a larger, broader gasket distribute the pressure over a greater area, lessening the severity of the marks.
Minimizing and Treating Goggle Indentations
A multi-pronged approach involving both prevention and post-swim mitigation can significantly reduce the visibility and duration of goggle marks. Prevention begins with selecting the appropriate eyewear and ensuring a proper fit. Choosing goggles with wider, softer gaskets or a mask-style design helps distribute the sealing pressure over a greater surface area, reducing localized compression.
The most effective preventive measure is adjusting the strap tension to the minimum required to maintain a watertight seal without leaking or slipping. Over-tightening the strap is the primary cause of severe, long-lasting indentations. Applying a moisturizer around the eye area before swimming can also increase skin suppleness, aiding its recovery.
After swimming, the goal of treatment is to encourage the return of normal circulation and fluid balance. Gently massaging the skin around the marks stimulates blood flow and helps alleviate the indentations and discoloration. Applying a cool compress or a refrigerated eye cream can help reduce puffiness. Using topical products containing ingredients like niacinamide may also assist in skin recovery.