Articles
How to treat hollow eyes non-surgically
Blog
27 December 2024

Blog
27 December 2024
Hollow Eye Treatments, West Malling, Kent
As we age, our face undergoes significant changes, and one of the most common concerns people have is the appearance of hollow or sunken eyes. This occurs when the area around the eyes, particularly the lower eyelid region, begins to lose volume, resulting in a tired and aged appearance. Fortunately, there are several non-surgical ways to address this issue and restore a more youthful, vibrant look to your face. In this blog, we will explore why hollow eyes occur with age, what causes this sunken look, and how to treat the condition effectively without surgery.
The impact of ageing on the eye area
As we get older, various natural processes in the body contribute to the hollowing of the eye area. One of the primary factors is the gradual loss of fat and collagen beneath the skin. Fat pads that once supported the delicate under-eye region begin to shrink or shift over time, which can lead to a gaunt or sunken appearance. Additionally, as collagen production slows down with age, the skin becomes thinner, making the hollowing effect even more noticeable.
Another contributing factor is the loss of bone density around the eye sockets, a natural part of ageing. The orbital bone area recedes slightly over time, creating less structural support for the skin and tissues around the eyes. These changes are a natural part of ageing, but they can make the eyes appear more hollow and less youthful.
Why your eyes may look sunken
There are several reasons why you might start noticing hollow eyes, and while ageing is the most common cause, it’s not the only factor. Other factors include:
- Genetics: Some people are naturally predisposed to have deeper-set eyes or less fat in the under-eye area, making hollow eyes appear earlier in life.
- Dehydration: Lack of sufficient hydration can cause the skin to look sunken and accentuate the appearance of hollow eyes.
- Lack of Sleep: Poor sleep habits can make the eyes look tired and exacerbate the hollowing effect by causing dark circles and puffiness.
- Weight Loss: Significant weight loss, particularly in the face, can reduce the volume in the under-eye area, leading to a hollow or gaunt look.
- Allergies and Sinus Issues: Chronic allergies or sinus problems can cause fluid retention or create shadows around the eyes, making them appear more sunken.
Non-surgical treatments for hollow eyes
While hollow eyes may seem inevitable as we age, several non-surgical treatments can help restore volume and rejuvenate the eye area.
Dermal Fillers
Dermal fillers, particularly those containing hyaluronic acid, are one of the most popular and effective non-surgical treatments for hollow eyes. Hyaluronic acid fillers can be injected into the tear trough area to add volume and smooth out the hollow appearance. The filler helps to plump the skin, giving a more youthful and rested look to the eyes.
This procedure is minimally invasive and usually requires little to no downtime. The effects typically last between 6 months to a year, depending on the type of filler used and your body’s natural metabolism. Results are immediate, and many people find the procedure to be a quick and effective solution for hollow eyes.
Topical eye creams with retinoids or peptides
For a less invasive approach, eye creams formulated with retinoids or peptides can help stimulate collagen production and improve the skin’s thickness around the eyes. Retinoids, derived from Vitamin A, encourage skin cell turnover and increase collagen production, making the skin look fuller and more resilient. Peptides, on the other hand, are proteins that promote collagen synthesis and can help firm and strengthen the delicate skin around the eyes.
Using an eye cream with these ingredients consistently over time can reduce the appearance of hollow eyes by improving skin texture and firmness. While results may take longer to appear than with dermal fillers, these topical treatments are a great way to prevent further volume loss and maintain the health of your skin.
PRP (Platelet-Rich Plasma) Filler injections
PRP filler injections involve using your body’s own plasma to create gentle volume and rejuvenate the skin. In this procedure, a small amount of your blood is drawn and spun in a centrifuge to separate the plasma. Part of this is then heated, before the plasma portion rich in growth factors is mixed back in to create a gel we can inject. This is then injected into the under-eye area (and possibly also surrounding structures, to gently revolumise, to stimulate collagen production and improve skin elasticity.
PRP filler is a natural way to restore volume and smooth out hollow eyes, and it’s particularly appealing for those who aren’t suitable for facial fillers. While results may take several weeks to appear, the effects are long-lasting and can improve the overall texture and tone of the skin.
Hollow eyes are a common concern, especially as we age, but there are effective non-surgical treatments that can help restore a youthful, vibrant appearance. Whether you opt for dermal fillers, topical creams, or regenerative treatments like PRP, you can address hollow eyes and enjoy a refreshed look without going under the knife. Taking care of your overall skin health with proper hydration, sleep, and sun protection will also go a long way in maintaining the vitality of the eye area over time.
If you’d like to learn more about the options, or to understand what may be right for you, click here to enquire or to book a consultation.
Disclaimer: Please be aware that results and benefits may vary from patient to patient taking into consideration factors such as age, lifestyle and medical history.