dark eye circles

Dark Eye Circles

Delivering safe and effective treatments to stop that tired look.

Customised combination approach to improve the appearance of your dark eye circles depending on your skin type and condition.

dark eye circle treatment singapore
Natural looking results

Dark eye circles removal depends on the underlying cause. Dark eye circles refers to an appearance, most commonly on the lower eyelids, that resemble a a darkening of the skin that is more obvious under certain lighting conditions. The human eye views an object as radiant when light bounces off from a smooth surface. This appearance can be distorted from irregularities on the skin surface and/or colour changes on the skin. Bearing in mind the varied causes of dark eye circles, the correct treatment will thus lead to better cosmetic results.

OUR APPROACH

HOW DR.NG treats dark eye circles

With specific protocols tailored to your skin type and concerns, Dr. Ng recommends a individualised tailored approach for patients who want to restore their skin naturally. With over a decade of using various lasers, fractional microneedling RF devices and injectables, Dr Ng. is experienced with the different skin conditions, skin types and indications to help rejuvenate and revitalise your skin.

periorbital ageing
Vrcek et al, 2016

Causes of Dark Eye Circles

Dark eye circles that are attributed to the build up of melanin within the skin is common in the Asian population. Individuals with a darker skin tone, most notably skin phototype III to VI have an increased risk of pigmentation, whether genetically predisposed, or triggered by external or internal factors.

Repetitive rubbing under the eyes will lead to skin irritation and consequently Post-inflammatory Hyperpigmentation (PIH). Post-inflammatory hyerpigmentation may be also triggered by atopic eczema, skin irritation caused by allergy to skincare products and excessive ultraviolet light exposure. 

Over time, age-related changes can be seen around the eye region. The loss of collagen and elastin within the skin will lead to skin laxity and wrinkles. In addition, deeper structures such as the fat, ligaments and bone gradually weakens with age, giving rise to the tear trough deformity. All these changes creates a shadowing effect, making dark eye circles more apparent.

Individuals with puffy eyelids secondary to water retention tend to notice that it gets worse in the mornings and especially after a salty meal. How can you tell if your puffy eyelids are due to water retention? Easy. Puff eyelids will remain present when looking downwards, and does not change much when gazing upwards. 

Other causes of puffy eyelids include fat prolapse, hypothyroidism, chronic eczema and allergic skin conditions around the eyes. 

Eyelid skin is thinner than most areas of the face, with very little fat under the skin. Ageing is more exaggerated in the periorbital area compared to other facial areas. Common changes include a loss of collagen, elasticity, pigmentation, skin thinning and blood vessel visibility.

what are the types of dark eye circles?

periorbital hyperpigmentation
Periorbital hyperpigmentation
fat prolapse
Infraorbital fat
Skin laxity, pigmentation and wrinkles
tear trough deformity
Tear trough deformity and prominence of muscle

benefits of dark eye circle treatment

One of the primary reasons individuals seek treatment for dark eye circles is for cosmetic improvement. Reduction in the appearance of dark circles can contribute to a more refreshed, revitalised and youthful appearance.

Certain treatments, such as microneedling or laser therapy, can stimulate collagen and elastin production, leading to improved wrinkles, skin texture and firmness.

For individuals with dark circles due to hyperpigmentation (excessive melanin production), certain topical treatments (e.g. retinoids) or laser therapies can help lighten the pigmented areas.

For many people, addressing dark eye circles can lead to increased self-confidence and a more positive self-image.

Healthcare professionals can tailor treatment plans to individual needs, considering factors like skin type, medical history, and specific concerns. This personalized approach enhances the likelihood of successful outcomes.

Some treatments not only address existing dark circles but also contribute to long-term prevention by promoting skin health and resilience.

Dark Eye Circles Removal Treatments

The periorbital area plays an important role aesthetically. Dark eye circles and periorbital skin changes are due to long-term repetitive use of the eye muscles, UV-induced collagen degradation, skin thinning, volume loss and hyperpigmentation. Given the multifactorial nature of this condition, a patient specific approach for customised treatment is essential. Treatment options range from camouflage, topical therapy, laser, energy-based devices, injectables and surgery.

Fractional microneedle radiofrequency

Fractional microneedle radiofrequency treatments such as the INFINI and Genius delivers precise heat within the dermis to induce wound healing and skin remodelling. Over time, new collagen fibers and elastin form to improve wrinkles, fine lines and skin laxity. Fractional RF microneedle devices that can deliver energy to depths of more than 1.5mm can potentially destroy the fatty deposits under the skin.

The great advantage of this treatment is that it does not harm the upper surface of your skin, making it a safer treatment for all skin types. This is especially important for delicate periorbital areas. 

genius rf microneedle and laser
pico laser

laser skin resurfacing

Various lasers such as the Picosecond, CO2 and the Q-switched laser are options for periorbital rejuvenation. Pigment lasers work reducing unwanted pigmentation (melanin) within the skin. Vascular lasers reduce unwanted blood vessels and redness. Moreover, the skin rejuvenating effects of fractional resurfacing laser leads to more collagen synthesis, enhanced elasticity and dermal remodelling.

Lasers are a safer for darker skin types as it selectively targets pigments with minimal collateral skin damage.

Injectables

Depending of your specific skin condition and skin type, you may be suitable for the following treatments to rejuvenate the periorbital region:

  • Botulinum toxin to relax muscles causing dynamic wrinkles
  • Fillers to correct tear troughs and surface wrinkles
  • Rejuran (polynucleotide) to regenerate and restore your skin
filler injection Singapore

The number and type of treatment would depend on your unique underlying skin condition. Laser and energy-based devices may need at least 4-5 sessions, whereas botulinum toxin injections are done once every 4-6 months, and HA fillers once every 6-9 months.

One should be in general good health to ensure adequate healing and outcomes after the procedure. Generally, you may be not suitable for treatment if you have:

  • Active skin infections
  • On anticoagulants or have bleeding disorders
  • Pregnancy or breastfeeding
  • History of hypertrophic and keloid scars
  • Implanted devices
  • Recent sunburn or tanning
  • Unrealistic expectations

Most of the treatments are very well tolerated. A numbing cream is typically applied pre-treatment to optimise your comfort during the procedure.

Depending on the type of procedure, you can expect some downtime as the periorbital region is a sensitive area.

  • Fractional RF microneedling and laser resurfacing: redness and mild swelling for 5-7 days
  • Injectables: Swelling usually fades within a few hours. Bruising may take 1-2 weeks to resolve.

As periorbital rejuvenation is dependent on your skin condition, a consultation for assessment and discussion on the treatment options is necessary. Treatment costs will be discussed in detail during consultation.

schedule a consultation for dark eye circles treatment in singapore

Dark eye circle treatments requires a patient centered approach. Contact us today to schedule a consultation, so Dr. Ng can develop a personalized treatment approach for resolving your skin concerns and helping you to achieve long-term improvements in the health and appearance of your skin.

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Or give us a call at +65 6769 6007 | WhatsApp us +65 9855 3022

References:
  1. Kim KE, Park JH, Seul TW, Kim IH, Ryu HJ. Periorbital Skin Rejuvenation of Asian Skin Using Microneedle Fractional Radiofrequency. Annals of Dermatology. 2023 Oct;35(5):360.
  2. Nilforoushzadeh MA, Heidari‐Kharaji M, Shahverdi M, Nouri M, Enamzadeh R, Nobari NN, Fakhim T, Rafiee S. Microneedle fractional radiofrequency in the treatment of periorbital dark circles. Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology. 2023 Jun 16.
  3. Kołodziejczak A, Rotsztejn H. Efficacy of fractional laser, radiofrequency and IPL rejuvenation of periorbital region. Lasers in Medical Science. 2022 Mar;37(2):895-903.
  4. Vrcek I, Ozgur O, Nakra T. Infraorbital dark circles: a review of the pathogenesis, evaluation and treatment. Journal of cutaneous and aesthetic surgery. 2016 Apr;9(2):65.