A brown discoloration in the inner corner of the eye is a common observation. Often harmless, it can stem from natural processes, environmental influences, or underlying medical conditions. Understanding these reasons helps assess its significance.
Common Causes of Inner Eye Corner Discoloration
Brown discoloration near the inner eye often results from the natural distribution of melanin. Melanin, the pigment for skin, hair, and eye color, can accumulate densely around the eyes. This increased pigmentation creates a naturally darker appearance, common in individuals with darker skin tones.
Dried tear residue also contributes to this discoloration. Tears contain salts, proteins, and lipids. When tears dry in the inner corner, these components leave a brownish stain. This effect is more noticeable if makeup or dust mixes with tears before drying.
Sun exposure can further influence pigmentation around the eyes. UV radiation stimulates melanin production, darkening the skin. Consistent sun exposure makes the inner eye corner appear more pigmented over time.
Aging also changes the skin around the eyes. As skin thins with age, collagen and elasticity decrease. This thinning makes underlying blood vessels more visible, contributing to a darker, brownish appearance. Changes in fat pads around the eyes can also create shadows that mimic discoloration.
Incomplete makeup removal, like mascara or eyeliner, can lead to residue buildup in the inner eye corner. This accumulation can result in a persistent brownish tint, highlighting the importance of thorough yet gentle makeup removal.
Underlying Medical Reasons
Beyond common occurrences, certain medical conditions can contribute to brown discoloration in the inner eye corner. Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH) is one such reason, where inflammation or irritation of the skin triggers an overproduction of melanin. This can occur from various sources like allergies, eczema, or even chronic eye rubbing, leaving behind a darkened area as the skin heals.
Allergic shiners, often seen in individuals with nasal congestion due to allergies, can also manifest as brownish or bluish discoloration under the eyes. This occurs when congested blood vessels beneath the thin skin around the eyes dilate and darken, resembling a bruise. The pooling of blood and fluid from congested nasal passages contributes to this appearance.
Periorbital hyperpigmentation is a broader term encompassing dark circles around the eyes, which can include the inner corner. This condition has multiple causes, including genetic predisposition, increased melanin production, and the visibility of underlying blood vessels. It can be exacerbated by factors like sleep deprivation or certain lifestyle habits.
Certain skin conditions can also present as brown lesions in this area. Dermatosis papulosa nigra, for example, is a benign condition characterized by small, dark brown or black raised lesions. These growths commonly appear on the face, including around the eyes, particularly in individuals with darker skin tones, and tend to increase in number with age.
When to Consult a Doctor
While inner eye corner discoloration is often benign, certain signs warrant a professional medical evaluation. It is advisable to consult a healthcare provider if the discoloration is accompanied by additional symptoms such as pain, itching, redness, or swelling around the eye. These accompanying signs could indicate an underlying infection, inflammation, or allergic reaction that requires medical attention.
Seeking medical advice is also important if the discoloration appears suddenly or exhibits rapid changes in its size, shape, or intensity. A sudden onset or a quick progression of the brown area could signal a more significant issue that needs prompt diagnosis.
If the brown discoloration is spreading beyond the inner corner or does not improve despite consistent hygiene practices and attempts to address common causes, a doctor’s visit is recommended. Persistent or expanding discoloration might suggest a skin condition or other medical factor that requires professional assessment and management.
Finally, if the discoloration causes significant personal concern or discomfort, consulting a healthcare professional can provide reassurance and appropriate guidance. A doctor can accurately diagnose the cause of the discoloration and recommend suitable interventions or treatments if necessary.