Dark circles are exactly what they sound like: Darker-than-usual coloring underneath the eyes, which may give the appearance that you're tired or unwell.

The term is often interchanged with "eye bags," but experts say the two are different.

Essentially, dark circles are usually more about problems with discoloration and circulation, while eye bags generally have more to do with problems related swollen skin or the surrounding eye muscles, dermatologist Dr. Lindsey Zubritsky tells USA TODAY.

Dark circles aren't normally a medical issue, according to the Mayo Clinic, and usually don't need to be addressed as a health issue. But if you're unhappy with the way they look, you have a few remedy options. Here's what experts want you to know.

What causes dark circles under the eyes?

Several issues can make the skin under your eyes appear darker, according to Zubritsky. Causes include overproduction of pigmentation, lax skin, allergies and poor circulation.

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Can ice remove dark circles?

Using cold compresses including ice, chilled cucumber slices or a refrigerated spoon on your eyes can help reduce the inflammation around your eyes, according to Johns Hopkins Medicine.

But when it comes to dark circles, there are usually better means to get rid of them.

How to get rid of dark circles

Just like with eye bags, the best way to get rid of dark circles is to first get to the bottom of what caused them in the first place, Zubritsky says.

"If dark circles are truly caused by pigmentation, then it's best to look for an eye cream that will reduce the discoloration," she says. "Ingredients like vitamin C and retinol are great treatment options. On the other hand, if dark circles are caused by dehydration and poor circulation, look for eye creams that contain hyaluronic acid, peptides and caffeine to hydrate and plump."

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