Maintaining a youthful under eye area can do wonders for your overall appearance. Our under eyes are one of the first places to show signs of aging, due to collagen loss beginning as early as our twenties!
In this blog post, we’ll discuss under eye aging, including how to treat under-eye bags,under-eye hollows, and how to maintain beautiful youthful eyes through the years.
Be sure to watch the corresponding YouTube video for more details on solutions for Under Eye Aging where I discuss treatment options in detail, as well as what I had done under my eyes.
Under Eye Aging - What Happens As We Age?
The delicate skin under our eyes can be the first to reveal signs of aging, even in our twenties. Why does this area age so quickly? The skin under the eyes is incredibly thin and sensitive. The slightest decrease in collagen, loss of elasticity, or thinning of the skin is quickly noticeable in this region.
It's important to note that under-eye aging can vary greatly from person to person. Anatomical differences, such as the thickness of the skin and the underlying bony structure, play a significant role. To address these changes effectively, it's crucial to tailor treatments to each individual's unique needs.
The Difference Between Under-Eye Bags and Under-Eye Hollows
Before diving into treatment options, let's distinguish between under-eye bags and under-eye hollows.
Under-eye bags occur when there's a puffiness or protrusion of the infraorbital fat pad. Over time, these fat pads can thin and separate, leading to the appearance of under-eye bags.
On the other hand, under-eye hollows are the result of volume loss in the tear trough area, often accompanied by fullness or a fat pad superficially located right on top of the tear trough.
What Causes Under-Eye Bags?
Now, let's delve into the causes of under-eye bags. The thinning and separation of the infraorbital fat pads, in combination with thinning of the skin, make under-eye bags more apparent.
Think of it like having toys on a mattress: if you have a thin wet sheet, you'll see the toys underneath; a thick down comforter, however, conceals them. Under-eye bags result from a combination of thinning and separating fat pads, as well as thinning skin.
It's important to note that using certain brightening creams or serums can lead to inflammation and redness, possibly resulting in post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation under the eyes. Using these products near the eyes should be approached with caution.
What Causes Under-Eye Hollows?
The thinning and separation of fat pads, alongside skin thinning, contribute to the development of under-eye hollows. These fat pads are compartmentalized and distinct from each other. Allergies, sun damage, and rapid weight loss can contribute as well.
How to Get Rid of Under-Eye Bags
Under-eye bags can be a natural consequence of age or may worsen over time. While surgical correction provides the best results for under-eye bags, non-surgical options are available.
Some clinicians use fillers to mask under-eye bags, but this approach doesn't correct the problem; it merely camouflages it.
For a more effective and long-lasting solution, under-eye surgery, performed by a skilled ocular plastic surgeon, may be recommended.
How to Get Rid of Under-Eye Hollows
For under-eye hollows, fillers sometimes offer an effective solution. A technique known as tear trough filler can provide a smooth transition between the eyelid and cheek junction.
Using a cannula is the safest approach, ensuring even distribution of the filler. It's essential to find a provider with substantial experience in tear trough filler procedures to achieve the best results.
How to Get Rid of Darkness Under Eyes
Under-eye darkness may result from melanin or underlying vasculature visible through the thin skin. To address this concern, skin brighteners can be used. However, caution is necessary when applying these products near the eyes.
Laser treatments, such as Vbeam, can also help with dark circles by targeting the underlying vasculature. It's crucial to consult a laser expert for this treatment to avoid potential side effects, including hyperpigmentation and scarring.
How to Get Rid of Under-Eye Puffiness
Under-eye puffiness, a natural occurrence due to factors like sleeping position and aging, can be improved without surgery. Botox treatments can help reduce puffiness under the eyes by promoting lymphatic drainage and preventing stagnant fluids.
Cold compresses and facial massages can further alleviate puffiness. Thermage, which stimulates collagen synthesis, and eye serums are additional non-surgical options for mild to moderate puffiness.
How to remove Under Eye Wrinkles- Botox
Botox is a delicate treatment for under eye rejuvenation as it can have less than desirable outcomes if performed incorrectly. Botox for the under eyes can work well for the right candidate, but it is not the right fit for everyone.
In my YouTube video, I discuss this option further – if you are considering botox under your eyes, make sure to watch that section to educate yourself on precautions to take.
Skincare for Under Eye Rejuvenation- MDAiRE
A great option for under eye aging is regular use of a high quality under eye serum. Our Regenerative ECM Eye Complex is formulated specifically for the under eye area and can work wonders on the delicate under eye skin. This formulation has key ingredients such as Green Tea Extract which holds potent antioxidants and polyphenols to repair and correct damaged DNA. We also include polypodium Leucotomos- A natural plant based extract that protects DNA from the harmful effects of UV light and environmental pollutants.We also include a specialized Peptide complex and Niacinamide to reduce inflammation, dark circles and fine lines.
If you are not currently using an under eye serum, our product is a great place to start. Watch the corresponding YouTube video to learn more about what to look for in an effective Under Eye Serum.
Microneedling Under Eyes
There are a few treatments I would NOT recommend doing under the eyes and microneedling is one of them. The risks of hyperpigmentation and other complications of microneedling under the eye are high and the benefits are usually not very impressive.
My advice would be to steer clear of microneedling and look into other treatment options for your under eye — it’s not worth the risk.
Fillers for Under-Eye Bags (Tear Trough Filler)
Tear trough filler provides a solution for under-eye bags and hollows. It involves adding filler to the hollow area, creating a smoother transition between the eyelid and cheek.
Using a cannula is recommended for safety and even distribution of the filler. The tear trough filler can yield beautiful results when performed by an experienced practitioner on the right candidate.
Thermage for Under Eye Rejuvenation
Thermage is a non-invasive treatment that uses radiofrequency energy to stimulate collagen production, resulting in firmer, smoother skin.
When applied to the under-eye area, it can help reduce fine lines and puffiness. It's an effective option for those with mild to moderate under-eye concerns.
Thermafrax to Treat Under-Eye Aging
Thermafrax is a combination treatment that combines Thermage and fractional CO2 laser to address under-eye aging. It offers the benefits of both treatments, tightening the skin and improving texture.
For those with more advanced signs of aging, Thermafrax can be a powerful solution.
CO2 Laser for Under Eye Rejuvenation
CO2 laser treatment is used to improve skin texture and tone. It can address fine lines, wrinkles, and discoloration around the eyes.
This laser treatment is suitable for individuals with moderate to severe signs of aging. However, it does come with downtime and potential side effects, so consult a dermatologist to determine if it's the right choice for you.
Vbeam for Darkness Under Eyes
The Vbeam laser targets blood vessels and redness. It can be an effective treatment for those experiencing under-eye darkness due to visible vasculature. Consult with a laser expert to determine if Vbeam is a suitable option for your specific concern.
When Is Surgery Necessary?
Surgery becomes necessary when non-surgical treatments can no longer provide the desired results. For individuals with severe under-eye bags, surgical intervention, such as lower blepharoplasty, is often the best option.
This procedure removes or repositions excess fat and tightens the skin, producing a more youthful appearance.
Thanks for reading, and remember to watch my corresponding video on YouTube for more information about Under Eye Rejuvenation!
Remember, there's no one-size-fits-all solution, so consult with a knowledgeable professional to create a personalized treatment plan tailored to your unique needs. Your under-eye concerns can be effectively addressed with a combination of non-surgical and surgical options, and, as always, prioritize safety and expertise when choosing your provider and choose the right skincare regimen to help you reach your goals.
