Decoding infraorbital dark circles with lasers and fillers

Abstract

Background

The degree and severity of dark circles varies according to the skin type, age, and lifestyle.

Objectives

To evaluate different non-surgical treatment options for dark circles.

Methods

In a private practice setting in the UK and India, 34 patients with dark circles with different Fitzpatrick skin types were treated with fillers (Group 1), lasers (Group 2), and fillers and lasers combined (Group 3). Pre and post treatment photos were taken and subjective and objective outcomes in appearance were reported.

Results

All treatment options were effective in all three groups with minimal side effects reported. No statistically significant difference was found between the three treatment groups. Patients who had tear troughs and/or hollow eyes responded well to fillers, patients with loose and wrinkled skin to CO₂ laser, patients with tear troughs and hyperpigmentation to fillers, Q switched Nd:YAG and topical agents and patients with tear troughs and veins to fillers and long pulsed Nd:YAG lasers. Most patients (82%) rated the improvement in their appearance as excellent.

Conclusions

All 3 treatment modalities were effective in the reduction of periorbital dark circles depending on underlying cause. Non-surgical treatments are capable of correcting and improving dark circles with minimum complications and downtime.

Keywords:

• Dark circles
• laser
• filler
• patient satisfaction

Acknowledgments

The authors would like to thank Alexander Currie for constructive criticism of the manuscript.

Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest was report by the author(s).