Under-Eye Filler: Is it right for You?
- LaceyLuminousSkin
- Feb 13
- 4 min read
Updated: 7 days ago
Under-eye hollows and dark circles can make the eye area look tired. Under-eye (tear trough) filler is one option—but it isn’t the right choice for everyone? Here’s a clear, educational guide to how it works, who it may suit, and the alternatives we can consider together.
Is it the right choice for you?
Before you decide, let’s explore how this treatment works, who it benefits the most, and what alternatives might be better for certain individuals.
Why do dark circles and hollows become more noticeable?
Volume changes: Fat pads can shift/reduce, leaving a hollow.
Skin thinning: Finer skin may reveal vessels/colour.
Collagen & elastin decline: Less support = more shadowing.
Under-eye filler works by restoring lost volume, reducing shadows, and creating a smoother transition between the lower eyelid and the cheek. But like any cosmetic procedure, it’s not a one-size-fits-all solution.
What is under-eye filler and how does it work?
Under-eye filler is a hyaluronic-acid gel placed carefully to soften a hollow and smooth the junction between the lower lid and the cheek. The aim is a subtle, refreshed look—not a change to your features. Treatment is quick with minimal downtime, but candidacy matters.
✔ Adds volume to hollow areas
✔ Reduces the appearance of dark circles
✔ Smooths the transition between the under-eye and cheek
✔ Gives a refreshed, well-rested look
Who is (and isn’t) a good candidate?
✅ May suit you if:
✅ You have a true hollow (shadow from volume loss), not only pigmentation.
✅ You have reasonable skin thickness and minimal morning puffiness.
✅ You’re seeking subtle refreshment, not a dramatic change.
❌ May not suit you if:
🚫 You often wake with under-eye puffiness/fluid (filler may worsen this).
🚫 Dark circles are mainly pigmentation/vascular colour rather than volume loss.
🚫 Skin is very thin/crepey, which can make filler visible.
🚫 You’re prone to swelling or fluid retention.
Risks to understand (and how we minimise them)
Swelling/puffiness: HA fillers attract water; occasionally this can persist and require dissolving.
Tyndall effect: A bluish hue if filler sits too superficially—avoided with careful product choice, placement, and technique.
Choosing an experienced injector and a conservative plan helps keep results natural and reduces risk.
Why cheek filler is sometimes the better first step
When mid-face volume loss is the main driver, cheek filler can gently lift support and reduce the under-eye shadow indirectly, often with fewer swelling issues than placing product directly in the tear trough. We’ll assess this during your consultation.
Alternatives if filler isn’t the best fit
If tear trough filler isn’t the best option, there are other evidence-based treatments we can consider.
Profhilo® (Skin Booster) Learn about Profhilo® — an ultrapure hyaluronic-acid injectable placed superficially to support skin hydration and elasticity. It can help improve crepey or dehydrated skin under the eyes.
Explore Viscoderm® Hydrobooster — a hyaluronic-acid skin booster designed to improve superficial fine lines and hydration in dynamic areas, including around the eyes.
Certain laser modalities can help reduce pigmentation and stimulate collagen, which may be useful when dark circles are driven more by colour/skin quality than by volume loss.
Look for ingredients like retinol, peptides, caffeine, and vitamin C to support brightness and firmness over time as part of a consistent routine.
At Luminous Skin, we’ll help determine the most appropriate approach based on your goals and skin assessment. Find out what happens in a consultation.
FAQs
Does under-eye filler treat all dark circles?
No. It helps when hollows/volume loss create shadow. Pigmentation or visible vessels may need different approaches.
How long do results last?
Varies by individual and product; we’ll discuss expected timeframes and review at your consultation.
Is it painful?
Discomfort is usually brief and manageable. We use techniques to keep you comfortable.
What’s the main risk?
Swelling/puffiness and the Tyndall effect are the key considerations; both are managed with careful assessment and technique. HA filler can be dissolved if needed.
Are there non-filler options?
Yes—Profhilo®, Viscoderm® Hydrobooster, suitable laser, and targeted eye care may be recommended.
Not sure what’s right for you?
Deciding to get tear trough filler is a personal choice, and it’s important to have realistic expectations. While it can provide a brighter, more refreshed look, it’s not the best solution for everyone.
Start with an educational chat. See what happens in a cosmetic consultation and get a personalised plan.
Ready to book?
Book your consultation online — appointments available in Nelson, Richmond, Motueka, and Blenheim.
If you have any questions you can Message me here or call 027 847 6072.
Note: We ensure that all our advertising and content about cosmetic treatments, comply with the guidelines set forth by the relevant authorities. Your safety and satisfaction are our top priorities.
Mandatory Statement: Dermal Filler, Medical Device Class Ill to smooth facial wrinkles and folds, correct facial atrophic scars, restore or enhance the lips, or restore facial volume. Dermal filler has risk and benefits. Ask your doctor if dermal filler is right for you. For product information, check with your doctor or from product details with the supplier.
Comments