Not all dark circles and tired-looking eyes are caused by the same problem – which means the best treatment isn’t always the same either.
Two of the most popular injectable treatments for the under-eye area are tear trough filler and polynucleotides. While both can improve the appearance of the eyes, they work in very different ways and are designed to treat different concerns.
Understanding the difference between tear trough filler and polynucleotides can help you make an informed decision about which treatment may be best for you.
What Is Tear Trough Filler?
Tear trough filler is a treatment designed to restore volume beneath the eyes using a carefully placed hyaluronic acid-based dermal filler.
The tear trough is the groove that runs from the inner corner of the eye towards the cheek. As we age, natural fat pads and bone structure change, causing this area to appear hollow or sunken. This can create shadows that make you look tired, even when you’re well-rested.
By restoring lost volume, tear trough filler can:
- Reduce the appearance of under-eye hollows
- Soften shadows beneath the eyes
- Create a fresher, more rested appearance
- Improve facial balance and rejuvenation
Results are typically visible immediately, although final results are best assessed once any swelling has settled.
What Are Polynucleotides?
Polynucleotides are an injectable skin treatment that works by improving skin quality rather than replacing lost volume.
Derived from highly purified DNA fragments, polynucleotides stimulate the skin’s natural regenerative processes, encouraging:
- Increased collagen production
- Improved elastin production
- Better hydration
- Enhanced skin repair
- Improved skin elasticity
Rather than filling hollows, polynucleotides focus on strengthening and rejuvenating the skin itself.
This makes them particularly effective for concerns such as:
- Fine lines and wrinkles
- Crepey under-eye skin
- Dehydration
- Mild skin laxity
- Poor skin quality around the eyes
Results develop gradually over several weeks as the skin produces new collagen and elastin.
Tear Trough Filler vs Polynucleotides: What’s the Difference?
Although both treatments are commonly used around the eyes, they target different issues.
| Tear Trough Filler | Polynucleotides |
|---|---|
| Restores lost volume | Improves skin quality |
| Best for under-eye hollows | Best for crepey skin and fine lines |
| Results are visible immediately | Results develop gradually |
| Uses hyaluronic acid filler | Uses regenerative DNA-derived molecules |
| Improves shadowing caused by volume loss | Improves texture, elasticity and hydration |
The best treatment depends entirely on what is causing your under-eye concern.
Who Is a Good Candidate for Tear Trough Filler?
Tear trough filler works best for patients who have:
- Visible under-eye hollowing
- Good skin quality
- Minimal puffiness or fluid retention
- Good skin elasticity
When carefully selected, patients can achieve a refreshed appearance that still looks completely natural.
When Tear Trough Filler May Not Be Suitable
Tear trough filler is not always the right solution.
Patients with the following concerns may not be suitable candidates:
- Prominent eye bags
- Significant puffiness
- Fluid retention around the eyes
- Excess loose skin
- Poor skin quality
- Advanced ageing changes
In these cases, filler can sometimes worsen the appearance rather than improve it.
A thorough consultation is essential to determine whether tear trough filler is appropriate.
Who Is a Good Candidate for Polynucleotides Under the Eyes?
Polynucleotides are often ideal for patients whose primary concern is skin quality rather than volume loss.
You may be a suitable candidate if you have:
- Fine lines around the eyes
- Crepey or thinning skin
- Mild under-eye wrinkling
- Dehydrated skin
- Reduced elasticity
- Early signs of ageing
Because polynucleotides stimulate collagen production, they can improve the overall health and resilience of the skin over time.
Can Polynucleotides Help Dark Circles?
Dark circles are one of the most complex under-eye concerns because they can be caused by several different factors.
These may include:
- Volume loss and shadowing
- Thin skin revealing blood vessels
- Hyperpigmentation
- Genetics
- Lifestyle factors such as poor sleep, stress and dehydration
The most effective treatment depends on the underlying cause.
If Dark Circles Are Caused by Hollowing
Tear trough filler may help by restoring volume and reducing shadows.
If Dark Circles Are Caused by Poor Skin Quality
Polynucleotides may help improve skin thickness, hydration and overall skin health, which can soften the appearance of dark circles.
Many patients actually have a combination of causes, which is why a personalised treatment plan is so important.
Can You Have Tear Trough Filler and Polynucleotides Together?
Yes.
In fact, combining treatments often provides the best results.
For patients with both under-eye hollowing and poor skin quality, polynucleotides can improve the condition of the skin before or alongside tear trough filler treatment.
This approach allows us to address multiple aspects of ageing around the eyes, creating a more natural and comprehensive rejuvenation.
What About Eye Bags?
Many patients assume tear trough filler will treat eye bags, but this is not usually the case.
Eye bags are often caused by protruding fat pads, fluid retention or excess skin.
In these situations:
- Tear trough filler is usually not recommended
- Polynucleotides may offer mild improvements if skin quality is contributing to the problem
- Surgical treatment, such as blepharoplasty, may be the most effective option
This is why accurate assessment is essential before any treatment is recommended.
How Do We Assess Under-Eye Concerns?
At The Academy Clinic, every treatment begins with a detailed consultation.
We assess:
- Your facial anatomy
- Skin quality
- Volume loss
- Pigmentation
- Lifestyle factors
- Medical history
- Your goals and expectations
The under-eye area is one of the most delicate and technically challenging areas to treat. Taking a personalised approach allows us to recommend the safest and most effective treatment plan for your individual concerns.
Tear Trough Filler or Polynucleotides: Which Is Best?
There is no universal answer.
If your concern is primarily under-eye hollows and shadowing, tear trough filler may be the most effective option.
If your concern is fine lines, crepey skin and poor skin quality, polynucleotides may be better suited.
Many patients benefit from a combination of both treatments to achieve optimal results.
The key is identifying the underlying cause of your concerns rather than simply treating what you see in the mirror.
Book an Under-Eye Consultation at The Academy Clinic
If you’re concerned about dark circles, under-eye hollows, fine lines or tired-looking eyes, our experienced medical team can assess the area and recommend a personalised treatment plan.
Whether tear trough filler, polynucleotides or a combination approach is most appropriate, we’ll guide you towards the safest and most effective option for natural-looking results. Book your consultation today, or contact our London or Manchester aesthetics clinics directly. We look forward to welcoming you to the clinic.
For first-time filler patients, enjoy 15% off your initial treatment with the code FillerWelcome.
Individual results vary. This article is for informational purposes only. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before undergoing aesthetic treatment.
