The Four Types of Dark Eye Circles
Structural hollowing (most common in Singaporeans) — Loss of fat in the lower eyelid compartment creates a shadow beneath the eye. This mimics pigmentation but is entirely structural. No eye cream corrects this — tear trough filler is the appropriate treatment.
Skin pigmentation — True melanin deposition from sun exposure, friction or inherited melanocytic hyperactivity. Responds to Q-switched laser over 4–6 sessions.
Vascular shadowing — Dilated superficial blood vessels visible through thin periorbital skin. Purplish or reddish tint. Pulsed dye or Nd:YAG vascular laser is most effective.
Fat prolapse (eyebags) — Forward projection of orbital fat creating a shadow. Cannot be corrected with filler — requires blepharoplasty or specific laser fat-reduction protocols.
How to Identify Your Type
Gently stretch the skin under your eye sideways. If the dark circle fades — likely structural or vascular. If it remains unchanged — likely pigmentation. Most Singapore patients have a combination — typically structural hollowing and pigmentation together.
Tear Trough Filler
For structural dark circles, tear trough filler is the most effective treatment. Dr Sin Yong uses soft, low-water-absorption HA placed precisely in the pre-periosteal plane using a fine cannula. Cannula technique significantly reduces bruising and complication risk in this anatomically complex area. Conservative volumes are essential — the tear trough requires far less product than many patients expect.
Laser for Periorbital Pigmentation
Q-switched Nd:YAG laser progressively reduces melanin in periorbital skin over 4–6 gentle sessions, 3–4 weeks apart. Energy levels are calibrated conservatively for the delicate periorbital skin — aggressive settings risk causing PIH that worsens the appearance.
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All treatments performed personally by Dr Sin Yong at Orchard Road, Singapore.
WhatsApp +65 8023 7170Frequently Asked Questions
Eye cream improves skin hydration and provides temporary brightening for mild surface pigmentation. It cannot fill structural hollow (tear trough deformity), correct vascular shadowing or remove significant pigmentation. Medical treatment is typically required for meaningful improvement.
Safe when performed by an experienced physician using appropriate products and technique. Vascular complications, prolonged bruising and Tyndall effect are known risks with incorrect technique. Cannula technique with the correct soft HA product minimises these risks.
Typically 12–18 months, though the periorbital area may metabolise filler faster than other areas due to tissue mobility.
Yes. For patients with both structural hollowing and pigmentation, Dr Sin Yong often plans tear trough filler (structural correction) combined with laser sessions (pigmentation) — usually filler first, then laser after swelling has resolved.