Berkshire Aesthetics
Book Consultation
Close-up of under-eye dark circles showing periorbital hyperpigmentation

Dark Circle Treatments

Clinical assessment and targeted management of periorbital hyperpigmentation

Periorbital dark circles are a common presenting complaint with a complex differential diagnosis including infraorbital volume deficit, dermal thinning, vascular congestion and melanin deposition. At Berkshire Aesthetics, our medical consultation identifies the underlying aetiology before recommending an appropriate, evidence-based management plan.

Doctor-Led
CQC Registered
Award-Recognised
Est. 2016

Aetiology & Contributing Factors

  • Volume loss and hollowing in the tear trough area (often age-related)
  • Thin, translucent skin revealing underlying blood vessels
  • Pigmentation (melanin deposition), which may be genetic or sun-related
  • Vascular congestion causing a blue or purple discolouration
  • Fatigue, dehydration and lifestyle factors
  • Allergies or chronic nasal congestion
  • Genetic predisposition and ethnicity-related pigmentation patterns

Clinical Presentation

  • Dark discolouration beneath the eyes (brown, blue or purple tones)
  • Hollowing or a sunken appearance in the tear trough area
  • Puffiness or fluid retention under the eyes
  • A tired or aged appearance, even when well-rested
  • Fine crepey lines in the under-eye skin

Evidence-Based Treatment Modalities

Treatment selection is individualised following clinical assessment, taking into account disease severity, Fitzpatrick skin type, medical history and patient goals.

Dermal Fillers

Tear trough filler can restore volume to hollowed under-eye areas, reducing the shadowing that creates the appearance of dark circles. This is an advanced technique performed by experienced doctors, with careful patient selection to ensure suitability.

Polynucleotides

Polynucleotide injections stimulate tissue regeneration and improve skin quality in the delicate under-eye area. They can help thicken thin skin, improve hydration and reduce the visibility of dark circles over a course of treatments.

Dermalux Triwave MD

Dermalux LED phototherapy can support skin health and reduce inflammation in the under-eye area. Specific wavelengths promote circulation and cellular repair, complementing other dark circle treatments.

Why we start with a consultation

Every treatment begins with a medical assessment. We need to understand your medical history, current health, skin condition and concerns before prescribing any procedure. This protects your safety and ensures the treatment is clinically appropriate for you.

During your consultation, Dr Langdon will explain what the treatment can realistically achieve, any risks specific to you, and whether an alternative might be more appropriate.

Book a ConsultationCall 01628 202028

All bookings are subject to our Booking Conditions.

Clinical FAQs: Dark Circles

Dark circles can result from volume loss, thin skin, pigmentation, vascular congestion, genetics or lifestyle factors. A clinical assessment helps determine the primary cause and guide treatment.
Treatment can significantly improve the appearance of dark circles, but results are not permanent. Maintenance may be needed depending on the underlying cause and treatment used.
Tear trough filler is an advanced procedure that requires careful patient selection and skilled technique. Our doctors assess suitability thoroughly and will advise against treatment if risks outweigh benefits.
Results from tear trough filler typically last 9–18 months depending on the product used, your anatomy and individual metabolism. Longevity is discussed during consultation.
Dermal fillers and polynucleotides may cause mild swelling or bruising for a few days. Dermalux LED therapy has no downtime. Your doctor will advise on expected recovery for your plan.
Polynucleotides can improve skin quality, thickness and hydration in the under-eye area. They are particularly suitable when thin, crepey skin is contributing to the dark appearance.
Yes. The under-eye area is delicate and not all dark circles respond to the same treatment. A doctor-led consultation ensures we identify the cause and recommend the safest, most effective option.
Adequate sleep, hydration, sun protection and managing allergies can all help. However, structural causes like volume loss or pigmentation typically require clinical treatment for noticeable improvement.
Clinically reviewed by

Dr Selena Langdon — Medical Director, MBBS

GMC 6159259

Last reviewed:

Clinical Summary

Expected Recovery PeriodMinimal — mild swelling or bruising for 2–5 days with injectable treatments; no downtime with LED therapy
Therapeutic ResponseDermal filler results are visible immediately with final settling over 2 weeks; polynucleotides improve gradually over 4–8 weeks across a treatment course

Clinical Governance

  • Under-eye treatments are performed exclusively by experienced doctors trained in advanced injection techniques for this delicate area
  • We identify the specific cause of your dark circles before recommending treatment — not all dark circles respond to the same approach
  • Patient safety is prioritised, and we will advise against treatment if it is unlikely to achieve a meaningful improvement

Book a Consultation

Request a medical assessment for your dark circles with our clinical team.

Book NowCall 01628 202028

Related Conditions

Further Reading & Clinical References

The following external resources provide independent clinical and regulatory information.

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Individual suitability for any treatment is assessed during a consultation. Always seek the guidance of a qualified medical professional with any questions regarding a medical condition or treatment.

Clinical governance

Page last reviewed: February 2026

Reviewed by Dr Selena Langdon, Medical Director (GMC 6159259) — Last reviewed: February 2026

Request a Clinical Assessment

Book a medical consultation to discuss diagnosis and an individualised treatment protocol.

Book a ConsultationCall us: 01628 202028