Hi C.,
I have to say there are a couple reasons for dark circles. Are they just dark circles, do you have any sinus pressure, because lots of times, especially if left untreated sinus problems including infection can cause very dark circles. Try pushing around your eyebrow bridge of nose and under your eyes with two fingers and see if there is any pressure or pain. If you are certain it is not sinus related, then it is either genetic or just from aging, the treatment is the same either way. Treatment would be long term, this may be why you did not like the Philosophy under eye cream. I am the same way, I own it, I actually think it works well, but you have to give it time and I am inpatient so I don't remember to use it on a consistent basis, that said there is a website I go to sometimes for issues that I know are from age but generally affect people a little older than me. There was actually a good advice article on how to keep your eyes looking young a while back, here is the link http://www.more.com/style/beauty/skin-over-40/ageless-eye...
The website is owned by Ladies Home Journal, and Better Homes and Gardens, it is called More.com and is for women over 40. I happen to only be 32, but I got signed up for the e-mail entering a contest and it has actually been useful. Good luck, you can always check with your Doctor too.
M.
32 year old mother of one gorgeous almost 4 year old daughter who is my pride and joy, was a SAHM until 6 months ago, when I tried unsuccessfully to re-enter the work force, and then I started college full-time.