Does hydrocortisone actually help alleviate dark circles under the eyes? i read that some doctors recommend it, but i'm afraid it will thin my skin.

Better not use it: Hydrocortisone isn't recommended and not the standard of care for dark circles under eyes, or the shiners, which might very well be due to nasal or sinus congestion, hydrocortisone cream if used for extended periods without medical supervision can thin your skin as you mentioned, and worse can make it dark too, better ask your doctor first who might refer you to ENT or an allergist, goodluck,