What is the effect of hyaluronic acid on dark circles?

Poor blood or lymphatic circulation, excess melanin, structural changes in the cells of the hypodermis, sagging skin tissues... There are several reasons that can explain the appearance of dark circles, of which we distinguish 3 types: bluish or vascular dark circles, brown or pigmented dark circles, and hollow or structural dark circles. The treatments for dark circles vary depending on their cause.

To date, no study shows any effect of the topical application of hyaluronic acid on the visibility of dark circles.

Furthermore, this active ingredient, which presumably cannot stimulate blood circulation or inhibit melanogenesis, is unlikely to have an effect on vascular or pigmented dark circles. Regarding structural dark circles, studies conducted in vitro have shown that hyaluronic acid is capable of stimulating the synthesis of collagen and elastin, proteins that support the extracellular matrix. If clinical studies were to prove that the topical application of hyaluronic acid had this effect, it could then be considered as a potential solution to prevent hollow dark circles.

However, it is possible to treat dark circles with hyaluronic acid injections. Indeed, several institutes and dermatology offices offer this filling technique, promising quick results regardless of the type of dark circles and lasting for 12 to 18 months. Hyaluronic acid injections into the dermis increase its water retention capacity, which allows the tissues to tighten and restore volume to the eye contour, thus reducing the hollow of the dark circle. By densifying the skin, they can also somewhat reduce the visibility of colored dark circles.

Even though this procedure is widely used today, few studies have focused on hyaluronic acid injections for the purpose of treating dark circles, with research primarily directed towards their effects on eye bags. However, there is a relatively recent clinical trial that has yielded positive results. 49 patients, presenting with combined dark circles, meaning both colored and hollow, received an injection of a gel composed of a mixture of hyaluronic acid both cross-linked and non-cross-linked, amino acids, glutathione, vitamin B6, and lidocaine, an anesthetic. The average satisfaction of the participants was rated at 9.97/10 and the effects of the injection were visible for about 12 months. As for the side effects of the treatment, only three patients developed a small bruise at the injection point, which disappeared after five to six days. In addition, two patients experienced slight swelling for a week after the injection, which spontaneously resolved.

Biocompatible and biodegradable, hyaluronic acid is considered safe. However, cases of swelling, erythema, bruising, pain, infection, allergic reaction, and nodules have been reported after injections. It is important to thoroughly consider before resorting to aesthetic medicine and to only trust a professional, especially when the area to be treated is as delicate as the eye contour. Lastly, it is important to know that not everyone can benefit from hyaluronic acid injections and they are contraindicated for pregnant or breastfeeding women, as well as individuals suffering from autoimmune diseases, taking anticoagulants, or having a skin infection.