The skin under your eyes is thin and delicate. That is why dark circles, eye bags, and a tired look often show up early. Even people who sleep well and take care of their skin can notice dark shadows under their eyes. Creams and makeup can hide dark circles for a short time. But they do not fix the skin underneath. That is why many people now choose PRP under eye treatment. It is a non-surgical option that helps the skin heal and improve naturally. PRP is used to improve the look of dark circles, hollowness, bags, and tired appearance. In this blog, we’ll talk about PRP under eye treatment in detail.
What Causes Dark Circles Under the Eyes?
Dark circles happen for many reasons. Most of the time, it is not a medical problem. It is very common. One main reason is thin skin. As we age, the skin under the eyes becomes thinner. This makes blood vessels easier to see, which can look blue or purple.
Another reason is volume loss. Over time, the fat under the eyes slowly decreases. This creates hollows and shadows. Lifestyle habits can also play a role. Not drinking enough water, lack of sleep, eye strain, and sun exposure can all make dark circles more noticeable. Genetics matter too. Some people are simply born with darker under-eye skin.
Dark circles can look different depending on the cause:
- Blue or purple often comes from thin skin and blood vessels showing through
- Brown or black can be more related to pigment and skin tone changes
This is very common and usually not dangerous. If swelling is sudden or severe, it is smart to check with a medical provider.
How PRP Treats Dark Circles Under the Eyes
PRP under eye treatment helps the skin repair itself over time. PRP stands for platelet-rich plasma. Platelets are tiny cells in your blood that help with healing. When PRP is placed under the eyes, it sends signals that help the skin:
- Build collagen
- Become thicker and stronger
- Improve texture and tone
PRP does not give instant results. Changes happen slowly over several weeks. This is because your body needs time to heal and rebuild the skin. Many clinics use special activators to help PRP work better. This helps release healing signals faster.
Microneedling with PRP for Under Eyes
PRP microneedling under eyes is a popular option for people who want smoother skin and fewer fine lines. There are two main ways PRP is used:
- PRP injections under eyes: They place PRP deeper in targeted spots (often used for dark circles and hollows)
- PRP microneedling: It creates tiny channels in the skin to improve texture and support collagen
Microneedling helps the body make new collagen. When PRP is added, healing can be stronger and faster.
What Is Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) Microneedling?
Microneedling is a minimally invasive treatment that uses very small needles to make tiny openings in the skin. It stimulates your body to make collagen, which can improve tone and texture.
PRP can boost microneedling results by supporting faster recovery and adding regenerative signals to the treated area.
How PRP Is Prepared and Applied
- A small amount of blood is drawn
- The blood is spun in a centrifuge to separate the platelet-rich layer
- PRP may be used topically after microneedling or through careful injection under the eyes (in select patients)
How PRP Works at the Cellular Level
The tiny openings from microneedling allow PRP to go deeper into the skin. The platelets release signals that help skin cells repair and rebuild. This supports collagen and healthy skin over time.
What to Expect During a PRP Under-Eye Treatment
Most PRP under-eye treatments take 30 to 60 minutes. Here is what usually happens:
- A numbing cream is applied
- Blood is drawn and PRP is prepared
- PRP is applied with microneedling or injected
Many people are advised to have up to 3 sessions, spaced about one month apart.
Is PRP Under Eyes Effective?
Yes, PRP can be very effective for the right person. PRP may work for dark circles caused by thin skin, early aging, and mild hollowness. Results are gradual and natural.
Some people notice early improvement in a few weeks. Full results often show after completing the treatment plan. Results commonly last 6 to 12 months. Maintenance treatments can help keep the results longer.
Clinical Studies on PRP for Dark Circles
Here are research highlights often cited in PRP under-eye discussions:
- Facial rejuvenation trial (follow-ups at 3 and 6 months)
A published trial reports moderate to excellent improvement in areas including periorbital dark circles and wrinkles during follow-up, with dark circle improvement reaching higher levels by 6 months. - Dermatologic Therapy (2020) – 68 females, PRP vs PPP gel
This study compared PRP injections to platelet-poor plasma (PPP) gel injections for infraorbital dark circles/tear trough concerns across three sessions with follow-up. - Cureus (2018) – Lower eyelid PRP
A study on PRP injections in the lower eyelid area reports improvement and describes the treatment as generally safe with minimal side effects in that group. - Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology (2014) – PRP for periorbital dark circles and crow’s feet
This study assessed PRP injections for under-eye dark circles and crow’s feet wrinkles.
Is PRP for Under-Eye Treatment Permanent?
PRP results are long-lasting but not permanent. Your skin keeps aging, and lifestyle factors still matter. Most people choose maintenance treatments every 6 to 12 months. How long results last depends on:
- Age
- Skin quality
- Lifestyle
- How the body responds
Alternative Treatments for Dark Circles
Other options your provider may discuss:
- Dermal fillers (tear trough fillers)
- Botox (for certain wrinkle patterns)
- Laser treatments
- Restylane (a type of filler)
- Facelift (for broader facial aging)
- Chemical peels
- Skin resurfacing
PRP is different because it is focused on skin repair and collagen support using your own blood, rather than placing a synthetic filler.
Why Does PRP Work for Under Eyes?
RP works because it contains healing signals that support skin repair. These signals help:
- Build collagen
- Improve skin thickness
- Support healthy tissue
PRP is now used in many areas of skin care and medicine.
PRP Under Eyes Side Effects
Most side effects are mild and temporary:
- Bruising
- Swelling
- Redness
- Itching or tenderness
Any injection carries a small infection risk, but PRP is generally considered low downtime when performed in a medical setting.
Post-Treatment Care After PRP Under Eyes
Common aftercare tips:
- If PRP is applied topically, many clinics suggest leaving it on for a period (follow your provider’s instructions)
- Avoid strong sun exposure for several days (and use sunscreen daily)
- Use gentle moisturizer after the first day if your provider approves
- Skip harsh products until the skin calms down
PRP Gel Treatment for Under Eyes
PRP gel under eyes is made by gently heating plasma until it becomes thicker. This gel can hold shape longer and may help with mild volume loss. Not everyone needs PRP gel. Your provider will help decide if it is right for you.
PRF for Dark Circles
PRF for dark circles is similar to PRP but releases healing signals more slowly. Some providers prefer PRF for delicate areas like under the eyes. The injection process is similar, but the preparation is slightly different.
PRP Under Eyes Before and After
Most people look for:
- Softer shadows under the eyes
- Brighter overall tone
- Smoother texture
- Less “tired” appearance
Changes are usually subtle and natural. Ask your provider to show real PRP under eyes before and after photos from their practice so you can set realistic expectations.
Other Causes of Dark Circles Under Eyes
Sun exposure can worsen pigment and speed up skin aging. Public health guidance links UV exposure to skin damage and higher skin cancer risk, which is why daily sun protection matters. Sunscreen, shade, and protective habits all help lower UV damage.
How to Prevent Dark Circles After PRP Treatment
Improve Diet and Nutrition
Vitamin C helps the body make collagen. Foods rich in vitamin C include oranges, strawberries, bell peppers, and broccoli.
Address Iron Deficiency
Low iron can cause tiredness and pale skin. If you feel very tired, ask your doctor about testing.
Reduce Salt Intake
Too much salt can cause puffiness under the eyes.
Limit Alcohol Consumption
Alcohol can dry out the skin and make dark circles worse.
Quit Smoking
Smoking speeds up skin aging and weakens collagen.
Why Choose PRP Treatment in Seattle?
If you want non-surgical under eye rejuvenation in Seattle, PRP is a gentle option which can offer natural results. PRP In Seattle offers microneedling with plasma (PRP) and discusses this treatment as an in-office option performed in a medical setting. During a consultation, we can help you figure out what is causing your dark circles (pigment, vessels, hollowness, or a mix) and whether PRP injections under eyes, PRP microneedling under eyes, or another option makes the most sense. Call us at (206) 279-2112 to book a consultation.
