Dark circles or under-eye bags can create a tired or aged appearance, often making people look less vibrant than they feel. This common concern affects individuals of all ages, from younger people with genetic predisposition to those experiencing volume loss over time. Fortunately, under-eye circles is an easily treatable issue that can be significantly improved with a minimal amount of dermal filler. In addition, advancements in aesthetic medicine offer highly effective solutions, and one of our new favorites from our toolbox is blending PRF (Platelet-Rich Fibrin) and a flexible dermal filler to restore the undereye area.
In this article, we’ll explore the causes of under-eye darkness, the available treatment options, and how PRF combined with filler can enhance results safely and effectively.
What Causes Undereye Darkness
Dark under-eye discoloration can stem from several common causes, including pigmentation of the skin, shadowing from volume loss, or a combination of both. The skin of the lower eyelid is among the thinnest and most delicate on the body, which allows underlying blood vessels to show through—often giving the area a violet or bluish tone. As we age, this skin becomes even thinner, intensifying the appearance of discoloration. In addition, shadows can play a significant role in darkness under the eyes. These shadows often result from volume loss in the fat pads beneath the eye, creating a hollow or trough-like area that deepens the darkness. Subtly restoring volume to this area can soften the transition, reduce shadowing, and significantly improve the overall appearance. In less common cases, some patients may have excess fat in the lower eyelid that bulges forward, creating fullness above the trough and emphasizing the contrast between the two areas. This too can contribute to a tired and aged appearance.
Best Treatment Options for Undereye Darkness and Bags
Effectively treating under-eye darkness and hollows requires addressing both shadowing and skin quality. At Aluma, our approach targets these concerns by restoring volume in the deeper tissue layers while enhancing the area superficially, just below the skin, as well.
Our preferred technique involves using a flexible hyaluronic acid filler, which we combine with platelet-rich fibrin (PRF) in a sterile, carefully controlled process. This custom blend is then gently injected beneath the eyes using an ultra-fine needle. The filler provides structural support to smooth out hollows and reduce shadowing, while the PRF delivers a regenerative boost.
Why PRF + Dermal Filler Combo Treatments are Superior to PRF Alone
PRF is created by drawing a small sample of the patient’s blood and spinning it in a centrifuge to isolate the platelets. These platelets are rich in growth factors that stimulate collagen production, enhance skin quality, and promote natural healing. While some providers inject PRF or platelet-rich plasma (PRP) alone—and others rely solely on filler—these single-modality approaches often fall short. PRF alone typically produces only temporary results, while filler without PRF may lead to a less natural appearance, with visible lumps or puffiness due to poor tissue integration. Furthermore, dermal filler alone does not take advantage of the body’s regenerative platelets for longer-lasting results.
Based on our extensive experience, we’ve found that combining PRF with filler offers the most natural-looking, long-lasting improvement for the delicate under-eye area. Many of our patients have shared stories of others who experienced puffiness or disappointing results with more traditional treatments. Our technique at Aluma is designed to avoid those pitfalls—delivering a smoother, more refreshed appearance that blends seamlessly with the surrounding skin.
Safety, Effectiveness, and Duration of Treatment Results
In the hands of a skilled aesthetic provider, the under-eye can be treated safely without excess risk, resulting in beautiful natural results. Given the delicate nature of the eyelid skin and blood vessels in the area, a cautious approach is warranted. We like to correct lost volume with a conservative amount of PRF and hyaluronic acid filler to avoid overcorrection. Most patients can expect a significant improvement in the under-eye appearance, with results that typically last between nine and 15 months.
Before and After Photos of PRF + Dermal Filler Combo Treatment
Why Expertise Matters in Undereye Rejuvenation
The under-eye area is one of the most delicate and technically challenging regions to treat in aesthetic medicine. This zone is highly vascularized, meaning it contains a dense network of blood vessels just beneath some of the thinnest skin on the body. Because of this complex anatomy, treatments in this area require a deep understanding of facial structure, expert technique, and a nuanced approach to avoid complications and achieve natural-looking results.
In fact, many aesthetic providers choose not to treat the under-eye area due to the risk of disappointing outcomes. Poor technique or lack of anatomical expertise can lead to results that appear unnatural or even worsen the concerns being treated. At Aluma, we’ve built our reputation on addressing these challenges head-on, combining advanced training with a deep respect for the unique demands of this area.
Conclusion: Is PRF + Filler for Undereyes Worth It
When performed by an experienced provider, under-eye rejuvenation can be done safely and effectively, with beautiful, subtle results. We favor a conservative approach, using a carefully prepared combination of hyaluronic acid filler and platelet-rich fibrin (PRF) to restore lost volume and stimulate skin regeneration. This dual-action treatment helps minimize the risk of overcorrection while improving both the structural and superficial qualities of the under-eye area.
Patients typically notice a significant improvement in hollowness, shadowing, and overall brightness, with results that last between 9 and 15 months. By treating this area with precision, care, and the right tools, we can deliver a refreshed, well-rested appearance—without the risks often associated with under-eye filler in less experienced hands.
Ready to Brighten and Refresh Your Undereyes
If you’ve been struggling with under-eye darkness or hollows, you’re not alone—and the right treatment can make all the difference. At Aluma Aesthetic Medicine, we specialize in subtle, natural-looking under-eye rejuvenation using techniques backed by expertise and experience. Our conservative, combination approach is designed to enhance your appearance without looking overdone, helping you look well-rested and confident.
Curious if you’re a good candidate? Schedule a personalized consultation today and let us help you rediscover a brighter, more refreshed version of yourself.
