Understanding Dark Circles
Dark circles rarely have a single cause. Hollowness beneath the eye creates shadow; pigmentation produces discolouration; thinning skin makes underlying vasculature more visible, and often, more than one factor is present at once. Effective treatment depends on accurate diagnosis, and at Arra, that assessment always comes before any recommendation.
How We Approach Dark Circles
Following a thorough assessment of the under-eye area, Dr Lim will design a treatment plan suited to the cause of your dark circles. The following approaches may be used individually or in combination.
Dr Lim examines the under-eye area carefully, determining whether the primary cause is structural (volume loss or hollowness), pigmentary (skin discolouration), vascular (visible vessels through thin skin), or a combination. This distinction drives every recommendation that follows.
For dark circles caused by hollowness or the tear trough depression, a small amount of hyaluronic acid filler is placed precisely beneath the eye to restore volume, reduce shadowing, and smooth the transition between the lower eyelid and cheek. This is one of the most technically demanding filler treatments and requires a thorough understanding of anatomy and a very conservative approach to dosage.
Where skin quality beneath the eye is compromised (thinning, crepey, or dehydrated) skin boosters can improve hydration and structural integrity, reducing the visible appearance of underlying vasculature and pigmentation.
For pigmentary dark circles — particularly common in East Asian and South Asian skin types — Aerolase offers a safe, effective approach to reducing melanin-related discolouration without the risk of post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation associated with many other laser systems.
The under-eye area changes gradually with age. Results are reviewed and the treatment plan adjusted over time to ensure sustained, natural improvement.
Results depend on the cause of the dark circles and the treatments selected. Improvement is typically gradual and cumulative (particularly for pigmentary concerns) with the most natural outcomes achieved through a phased approach.
Onset: Immediate, with final results visible after 2 weeks once any swelling has resolved
Duration: 12–18 months, varying by product and individual metabolism
Note: The tear trough is a delicate area; conservative dosing and gradual build-up is always preferred
Onset: Improvement in skin quality visible over 4–8 weeks
Duration: 6–12 months; best maintained with periodic sessions
Onset: Progressive improvement across a course of treatments
Duration: Results are long-lasting with appropriate sun protection; maintenance sessions recommended
All timelines are indicative. Dr Lim will provide a personalised outlook during consultation.
FAQ’s
Can filler make dark circles worse?
In the wrong hands, yes, filler can make dark circles worse. Overfilling the tear trough or using the wrong product can create puffiness, a bluish discolouration called the Tyndall effect, or an unnatural appearance. At Arra, a conservative, anatomy-led approach is always taken, with small amounts placed precisely to achieve a natural improvement without adding bulk.
I have dark circles due to pigmentation. Can they be treated?
Yes, though pigmentary dark circles require a different approach to structural ones. Aerolase laser can safely and effectively reduce melanin-related discolouration across all skin tones, including East Asian and South Asian complexions. A course of treatments is typically required for meaningful improvement.
My dark circles are hereditary. Can anything be done?
Hereditary dark circles often involve a combination of structural depth, thin skin, and pigmentation. All of which can be meaningfully improved with the right combination of treatments, even if complete elimination isn’t always realistic. Dr Lim will give an honest assessment of what’s achievable during your consultation.
Is tear trough filler safe?
When performed by a qualified, anatomy-trained medical doctor using appropriate products and technique, tear trough filler is safe and effective. Dr Lim is a GMC-registered doctor with extensive injectable experience, and treats the under-eye area with particular care and conservatism.
Is there any downtime?
Tear trough filler can occasionally cause mild bruising or swelling in the days following treatment. That’s because the under-eye area is particularly sensitive. Skin boosters and Aerolase involve minimal to no downtime. Dr Lim will advise on what to expect and how to manage aftercare at your appointment.