Under-Eye Filler: Hyaluronic Acid or PRF?

Under-Eye Filler: Hyaluronic Acid or PRF?

The choice between hyaluronic acid and PRF for under-eye treatment depends on the underlying cause and the patient's goals. Hyaluronic acid is ideal for correcting volume loss and hollowness, offering immediate visible results. On the other hand, PRF (Platelet-Rich Fibrin) is more suitable for improving skin quality, pigmentation, and stimulating regeneration in the medium and long term.

At Santé Clínica Estética, our board-certified doctors evaluate each case individually to determine the most beneficial approach. We prioritize naturalness and safety in all our procedures. A detailed medical assessment is fundamental to guide this informed decision.

Understanding Dark Circles: Types and Causes

Dark circles are a frequent reason for consultation in aesthetic medicine and can appear in various forms. Understanding their origin is the first step towards effective and personalized treatment. Not all dark circles are the same nor do they respond to the same type of intervention.

Hollow or Tear Trough Dark Circles

These dark circles are characterized by a depression or hollowness under the eye, creating a shadow that gives a tired appearance. Their main cause is volume loss in the periorbital area due to aging or genetic factors. The orbital bone can become more prominent and subcutaneous fat can decrease, accentuating the tear trough.

Pigmented or Vascular Dark Circles

Pigmented dark circles manifest as a darkening of the skin under the eyes, which can be brown, bluish, or purplish. Causes include post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, hemosiderin deposits, or very thin skin that allows blood vessels to show through. Genetics and sun exposure also influence their appearance.

Hyaluronic Acid: Solution for Volume

Hyaluronic acid is a substance naturally present in our skin, known for its ability to retain water and provide volume. In the context of dark circles, it is used to fill the tear trough and restore lost volume. It is a safe treatment with immediate results.

Advantages of Hyaluronic Acid

• Immediate Results: Volume correction is visible right after the procedure.
• Hydration: Improves skin hydration in the treated area.
• Reversible: If necessary, hyaluronic acid can be dissolved with hyaluronidase.
• Well Tolerated: It is biocompatible and allergic reactions are extremely rare.

Considerations for Hyaluronic Acid

The duration of results typically ranges from 9 to 18 months, depending on the type of hyaluronic acid and individual metabolism. It is crucial that the procedure is performed by an experienced doctor to avoid complications such as the Tyndall effect or overcorrection. At Santé, our doctors use microcannulas for greater safety and precision.

PRF (Platelet-Rich Fibrin): Regeneration and Skin Quality

PRF is a concentrate of growth factors and regenerative cells obtained from the patient's own blood. Unlike PRP, PRF contains fibrin, which allows for a slower and sustained release of these factors. Its focus is on improving skin quality and stimulating cellular regeneration.

Advantages of PRF

• Natural Regeneration: Stimulates the production of the body's own collagen and elastin.
• Improves Skin Quality: Helps reduce pigmentation and thicken thin skin.
• Safety: Being an autologous derivative (from the patient's own body), the risk of adverse reactions is minimal.
• Gradual Results: Effects develop progressively, offering natural improvement over time.

Considerations for PRF

PRF results are not immediate and usually require several sessions (generally 3, spaced one month apart). Improvement in skin quality and reduction of pigmentation are appreciated from weeks or months after the treatment. It is an excellent option for those seeking long-term improvement in the dermal health of the area.

«A study published in the Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology in 2021 highlighted that 85% of patients treated with PRF for pigmented dark circles experienced significant improvement in skin coloration and texture after three sessions.»

Comparison: Hyaluronic Acid vs. PRF for Dark Circles

The choice between hyaluronic acid and PRF is based on the initial assessment of the type of dark circles and the patient's goals. Below is a comparative table to facilitate understanding of their key differences:

Characteristic	Hyaluronic Acid	PRF (Platelet-Rich Fibrin)
Primary Mechanism	Volume filling	Tissue regeneration, skin quality improvement
Primary Indication	Hollow dark circles, tear trough	Pigmented dark circles, thin, devitalized skin
Material Origin	Synthetic substance (biocompatible)	Autologous (from the patient's own blood)
Results	Immediate (volume)	Gradual (regeneration, color)
Typical Duration	9-18 months	Progressive and lasting improvement in skin quality
Number of Sessions	Generally 1 (touch-ups if necessary)	Usually requires 2-3 initial sessions
Price (Santé)	400€ (under-eye)	275€ (injectable PRF)

Sometimes, a combined approach may be the most effective. For example, using hyaluronic acid to restore volume and PRF to improve the surrounding skin quality. This decision is always made in the context of a detailed medical consultation.

Key Points

• Hyaluronic acid is ideal for under-eye volume and hollowness, with immediate results.
• PRF focuses on regeneration and improving skin quality, with gradual results.
• The choice depends on the type of dark circles and individual goals, after a medical assessment.
• Both treatments are safe when performed by qualified doctors.
• A combined approach may offer the best results in some cases.

How Santé Clínica Estética Addresses It

At Santé Clínica Estética, the health and satisfaction of our patients are our priority. We understand that treating dark circles requires a precise and personalized approach. Our medical team, composed of qualified professionals, performs a thorough assessment of each case.

During the consultation, we analyze the type of dark circles, skin quality, bone structure, and patient expectations. Based on this information, we design an individualized treatment protocol, which may include hyaluronic acid, PRF, or a combination of both. Our goal is always to achieve natural, safe, and harmonious results with the patient's face.

We offer a free aesthetic consultation where you can resolve all your doubts and receive expert recommendations. We attend to our patients in Spanish, English, Portuguese, and Russian, ensuring clear and effective communication. At Santé, your well-being and trust in our procedures are fundamental.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is under-eye treatment with hyaluronic acid or PRF painful?

Both procedures are usually well tolerated. Before the injection, a topical anesthetic cream is applied to minimize any discomfort. Some hyaluronic acid fillers already contain lidocaine, a local anesthetic, which increases comfort during treatment. PRF involves a small blood draw similar to a routine blood test.

How long does it take to see PRF results?

PRF results are gradual, as the treatment stimulates the body's natural regenerative processes. Generally, improvements in skin quality, texture, and reduction of pigmentation begin to be visible from 3-4 weeks after the first session, and consolidate after subsequent sessions (normally 2-3 sessions spaced one month apart).

Can I combine hyaluronic acid and PRF in the same treatment?

Yes, in many cases, combining hyaluronic acid and PRF can offer optimal results. Hyaluronic acid can restore volume in the tear trough, while PRF improves the quality and tone of the surrounding skin. This combined strategy allows for addressing different aspects of dark circles comprehensively. The decision to combine treatments will be made by your specialist doctor after a detailed evaluation.

What care should I take after under-eye treatment?

After treatment, it is normal to experience slight swelling or small bruises in the area, which usually disappear within a few days. It is recommended to avoid intense exercise, direct sun exposure, and makeup for the first 24 hours. Applying cold packs and following your doctor's specific instructions will help ensure a quick and complication-free recovery.

Who is not a good candidate for under-eye filler?

Certain conditions may contraindicate under-eye filler. This includes pregnancy, breastfeeding, active infections in the treatment area, severe autoimmune diseases, clotting disorders, or known allergy to any of the components. A complete medical evaluation at Santé will determine if the treatment is safe and suitable for you.