Tired eyes? your under-eye options explained Look as rested as you are

"You look tired." You slept eight hours. You drank the water. You bought the expensive eye cream. And still the concealer settles into lines by lunchtime.

Here is the honest guide to what actually helps, what each option does, and what no treatment can promise.

Why do my eyes look tired?

The skin under your eyes is among the thinnest on your body. With time, stress, screens and sun, it loses hydration and collagen. Thin skin lets shadows show through, crepey skin catches light unevenly, and concealer settles into every line.

That is why the options below work on skin quality: hydration, thickness and firmness. They help the area look brighter and more rested, without changing the shape of your face.

What are the options?

None of these is a filler, and none adds volume under your eyes. Many women combine two over a year. We tell you which to start with.

Which one suits me?

• Thin, crepey, tired-looking skin: Vitaran polynucleotides, our most asked-about option.
• Fine lines and loss of firmness: Collaju.
• Dry, dull skin, or your very first treatment: RRS HA mesotherapy, our lightest option.
• Your own blood, nothing added: PRP / PRF.

Can you get rid of dark circles?

We can often make them look lighter by improving the skin. But dark circles caused by genetic pigmentation, and deep shadows from the shape of your face, rarely disappear fully. If yours are genetic, you will hear that before you pay. If hollows are your main concern, we will talk you through it honestly at your consultation.

How many sessions, and how long does it last?

Usually 2 to 4 sessions, 2 to 4 weeks apart, then a top-up once or twice a year. Results typically last 6 to 9 months after a course, depending on the product. Appointments take 25 to 30 minutes, PRP / PRF about 50.

Does it hurt, and will I bruise?

Most clients feel quick pinches. Numbing cream goes on first. Because the skin is so thin, small bumps, mild swelling or bruising are normal and usually settle within 1 to 3 days. Book at least a week before a big event.

Aftercare: no eye make-up or concealer for 12 to 24 hours, no rubbing, no alcohol, saunas, hot baths or hard workouts for 24 hours, sleep on your back with your head slightly raised the first night, and SPF and sunglasses every day.

Who should wait?

Not right now if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, or have an eye or skin infection, a stye or a cold sore near the area. Tell us about any allergies: Vitaran comes from purified fish DNA (usually salmon), and Collaju from animal (bovine) collagen. Tell us too about blood thinners or a bleeding disorder, and if your puffiness changes a lot from day to day, as that may need your GP first.

Is there a plan for tired eyes and tired skin?

Yes. Many women pair an under-eye course with a hydrofacial for the rest of the face, so eyes and skin both look rested. We plan the timing with you.

More on polynucleotides for the whole face is on our polynucleotides page.

See every option, live prices and course prices on our under-eye treatments page, or book a free 10-minute consultation.

This guide is general information, not medical advice. Results vary from person to person.