Under Eye Wrinkles: Causes and Treatments

Noticing fine lines and wrinkles under your eyes can be a common experience as you age. With the natural ageing process, fine lines may develop due to various factors, including lifestyle habits. In this blog, Artiste Plastic Surgery provides general information about potential causes of under-eye wrinkles and discusses available treatment options.

Causes of Under Eye Wrinkles

• Ageing: The natural ageing process leads to a gradual breakdown of collagen and elastin in the skin, contributing to the formation of wrinkles.
• Sun Exposure: Prolonged exposure to the sun’s harmful UV rays can accelerate the ageing of the skin and contribute to the development of wrinkles.
• Smoking: Tobacco smoke contains harmful chemicals that can damage collagen and elastin, leading to premature ageing and wrinkles.
• Dehydration: Lack of proper hydration can make the skin lose its elasticity, making it more prone to wrinkles.
• Genetics: Genetic factors play a role in determining how quickly and prominently wrinkles may appear.

Treatments for Under Eye Wrinkles

Topical Treatments

Anti-ageing creams and serums may contain ingredients such as retinol, hyaluronic acid, and antioxidants, which are commonly used to manage under-eye wrinkles. When applied regularly as part of a skincare routine, these products may help support collagen production, maintain hydration, and offer some protection against environmental stressors. It’s important to note that these treatments usually provide gradual results and require consistent use over time. While topical options can be convenient and non-invasive, individual outcomes may vary, and it’s advisable to seek guidance from a healthcare professional when choosing skincare products.

Anti-Wrinkle Injections

Anti wrinkle injections work by temporarily reducing muscle activity, which can help smooth wrinkles caused by muscle contractions. It’s important to consult a qualified healthcare professional to discuss whether this treatment is suitable for your individual needs.

Dermal Fillers

Injectable fillers, often containing hyaluronic acid, are designed to add volume to areas like the under-eye region, which can help minimise the appearance of wrinkles. These non-surgical treatments are administered through injections, with results that can last from several months to over a year—depending on the product and individual factors. Consulting a healthcare professional can help determine if injections for volume are appropriate for your specific concerns.

Chemical Peels

Chemical peels utilise specially formulated solutions to exfoliate the outer layer of skin, stimulating cell turnover and improving texture.  Some redness and peeling may occur after the procedure, with downtime varying based on the strength of the peel. This non-invasive treatment may be an option for individuals seeking to address under-eye wrinkles through controlled exfoliation. A healthcare professional can provide advice on the suitability of chemical peels for your needs.

Eyelid Surgery (Blepharoplasty)

Eyelid surgery, or blepharoplasty, is a surgical procedure that can address under-eye concerns by removing excess skin and fat. Typically performed as an outpatient surgery, incisions are placed along natural creases to help minimise visible scarring. Recovery may involve some swelling and bruising, and it’s important to follow your surgeon’s post-operative care instructions to support healing.

This option may provide long-lasting results, but as with any surgery, outcomes and recovery experiences can vary. Consulting with a qualified healthcare professional is essential to discuss your individual needs, expectations, and whether this procedure is suitable for you.

Managing under-eye wrinkles involves understanding their causes and exploring various treatment options, ranging from topical solutions to surgical procedures. Each individual’s skin and needs are unique, and it’s important to consult with a qualified healthcare professional to determine the most appropriate approach for your situation. 

Disclaimer: At Artiste Plastic Surgery, our Plastic Surgeons led by Dr Jack Zoumaras have been trained to the highest possible degree. All surgery has risks and it is always advised to get a second opinion. Risks are very real and we cannot guarantee any result. Results are illustrated as a guide only. All risks are managed and any need for revision surgery or complications (1-5%) can be managed by our specialist plastic surgeons.

Any statements on how you will feel is based on Level V Evidence:

Level V:  How you will feel after plastic surgery varies between individuals, depending on psychological and physical factors. Our internal research is based on how patients in our practice feel after surgery.

The blogs are not a substitute for a medical consultation and do not form as part of the doctor to patient relationship.