Dark circle injections: our opinion

What are the different types of dark circles?

There are two main types of dark circles:

• Hollow dark circles. These are a consequence of skin ageing. As fat melts away, volume beneath the skin diminishes. The skin of the lower eyelids is also very thin. Loss of collagen creates a hollow under the eye, as the skin is pressed against the orbital bone. Various dermal fillers can be used to fill these dark circles and restore volume.
• Dark or coloured circles. These are also linked to dehydration of the eyelids, whose skin becomes more transparent. The blood vessels close to the orbicularis muscle then show through the eyelids, which take on a dark, brown or even red colour. No dermal filler can treat this imperfection effectively. Only nano-lipofilling works in this case.

How is hyaluronic acid used in aesthetic medicine?

Hyaluronic acid is a macromolecule naturally present in the body. Being hydrophilic, it retains water in the skin and helps maintain its firmness and tone. Unfortunately, this component disappears with age. This is when the signs of skin ageing become visible, as the skin becomes hollow and dehydrated. Injections of synthetic hyaluronic acid address this problem, thanks to two of its properties:

• A volumising property. Highly cross-linked (thicker) hyaluronic acid is used to fill wrinkles and fine lines, smoothing hollows in the skin.
• A trophic property. Lightly cross-linked (more fluid) acid deeply nourishes and moisturises the skin. The skin is stimulated: it produces new collagen and regenerates itself.

What are the benefits of hyaluronic acid injections for dark circles?

Hyaluronic acid injections offer several advantages. Thanks to its volumising effect, hyaluronic acid can fill dark circles effectively. The injections are also minimally invasive. Hyaluronic acid is entirely biocompatible and hypoallergenic.

Once injected, it is naturally absorbed and gradually eliminated by the body. The results are therefore temporary in principle, which may suit patients reluctant to undergo surgery.

What are the drawbacks of hyaluronic acid injections for dark circles?

Hyaluronic acid is a flagship product in aesthetic medicine. Unfortunately, it is not always suitable for treating dark circles. With over 20 years’ experience, Dr Hayot has observed a number of drawbacks to hyaluronic acid injections for dark circles.

First, this product behaves very poorly in the eyelids. It is very difficult to clear from this area of the skin and sometimes remains for several years after the injections. Hyaluronidase is then needed to dissolve it.

Lastly, the acid is visible through the skin. Because of the Tyndall effect, hyaluronic acid takes on a bluish appearance visible through the eyelids, where the skin is very thin. The results are therefore unsightly and rarely satisfactory. Dr Hayot consequently does not recommend this treatment for dark circles.

Hyaluronic acid injections are therefore recommended for dark circles in only a few cases, in particular while waiting for a lipostructure procedure.