Dark circles under the eyes, also known as periorbital dark circles, are a common cosmetic concern that can make a person look tired, older, or sick. While they can be caused by a variety of factors, including genetics, aging, and lifestyle habits, they can often be treated or improved with various medical treatments.
Pathophysiology of dark eye circles
Dark circles under the eyes can be caused by a variety of factors, including:
- Genetics: Some people are more prone to developing dark circles due to inherited traits.
- Aging: As we age, the skin around the eyes becomes thinner and more transparent, allowing the blood vessels under the skin to become more visible.
- Allergies: Allergies can cause inflammation and swelling around the eyes, leading to dark circles.
- Dehydration: When the body is dehydrated, the skin around the eyes can appear sunken and dark.
- Fatigue: Lack of sleep or excessive fatigue can cause the skin under the eyes to appear pale, making dark circles more noticeable.
- Medical conditions: Certain medical conditions, such as anemia and thyroid problems, can cause dark circles.
Treatment options for dark eye circles
There are several treatment options available for dark circles, including laser treatments, injectable fillers, and surgery.
V beam laser: The V beam laser is a type of pulsed dye laser that is used to treat a variety of skin conditions, including dark circles. It works by targeting the blood vessels under the skin that contribute to the appearance of dark circles. The laser energy heats and destroys the blood vessels, causing them to shrink and fade.
Pico laser: Pico lasers are a type of laser that uses ultra-short pulses of energy to target and treat a variety of skin conditions, including dark circles. The laser energy is delivered in very short bursts, which allows it to target specific areas without damaging the surrounding skin.
Fraxel laser: Fraxel lasers are a type of fractional laser that is used to treat a variety of skin conditions, including dark circles. They work by creating microscopic wounds in the skin, which stimulates the body’s natural healing process and promotes the production of collagen. Fraxel lasers come in different wavelengths, including 1550nm and 1927nm. The 1550nm wavelength is more effective at treating deeper wrinkles and scars, while the 1927nm wavelength is more effective at treating superficial skin conditions, such as dark circles.
Fractional CO2 laser: Fractional CO2 lasers are a type of laser that is used to treat a variety of skin conditions, including dark circles. They work by delivering energy in the form of tiny dots or columns, which stimulates the body’s natural healing process and promotes the production of collagen. Fractional CO2 lasers are more aggressive than Fraxel lasers and are typically used to treat deeper wrinkles and scars.
Tear trough fillers: Tear trough fillers are injectable fillers that are used to treat the sunken area under the eyes that can contribute to the appearance of dark circles. The fillers are injected into the tear trough area to add volume and smooth out the skin, creating a more youthful appearance.
Eye bag removal: Eye bag removal, also known as blepharoplasty, is a surgical procedure that is used to remove excess fat and skin from the lower eyelids. It can be performed using a traditional surgical approach, which involves making an incision along the lower eyelid, or a scarless approach, which involves making small incisions inside the lower eyelid. Eye bag removal can help to improve the appearance of tired-looking eyes by removing excess fat under the eyes.
Options for eye bag removal can include non-surgical approaches as well. The combination of both the AGNES and Secret RF eye bag removal technique provide a good alternative to surgery for those with mild to moderate eye bags.
Non-surgical eye bag removal is a popular option for people who want to improve the appearance of their under-eye bags without undergoing surgery. Both AGNES and Secret RF uses uses a biopolar radiofrequency to address under-eye bags and other skin concerns such as fine lines, wrinkles, and uneven skin tone.
AGNES is a type of laser treatment that works by creating microscopic columns of thermal damage in the skin. This stimulates the production of new collagen and elastin, two proteins that are important for maintaining the structure and elasticity of the skin.
Secret RF is a radiofrequency device that delivers energy to the deeper layers of the skin, where it heats the tissues and stimulates the production of new collagen and elastin. It can be used to treat a variety of skin concerns, including under-eye bags.
Both AGNES and Secret RF are non-surgical treatments that are performed on an outpatient basis. They may involve some downtime, with patients typically experiencing redness and swelling in the treated area for a few days after the procedure.
