Restylane Eyelight Under-Eye Filler

Dark circles and under-eye hollows can develop due to hyperpigmentation and volume loss, which occur as collagen production declines, resulting in a tired and stressed appearance. Under-eye shadows become more noticeable when there is decreased volume in the lower eyelid, causing some individuals to appear older and prompting them to seek treatments to fill those hollow areas. When restoring lost facial volume, dermal fillers are among the most effective options, offering visible results immediately. On June 5, 2023, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration announced approval of a new Restylane filler specifically designed for under the eyes: Restylane Eyelight. The first step in determining whether Restylane Eyelight is suitable for you is to schedule a consultation with expert, board-certified dermatologist, Dr. Michele Green.

Restylane Eyelight is the first FDA-approved hyaluronic acid dermal filler specifically designed to treat under-eye hollows, filling in the grooves beneath the eyes for smooth, natural-looking results. Using cross-linking Non-Animal Stabilized Hyaluronic Acid (NASHA) gel technology, Restylane Eyelight adds volume when injected into the tear trough area, effectively reducing under-eye bags and dark shadows caused by volume loss. Clinical studies also showed that patients were highly satisfied with their results even one year after the initial hyaluronic acid filler injection. When performed by a healthcare professional, such as board-certified dermatologist Dr. Michele Green, the treatment is quick and painless, providing patients with long-lasting results and no downtime.

Board-certified dermatologist Dr. Michele Green, an expert in her field, has been treating patients at her Upper East Side office in New York City for over 25 years. Skilled in a wide range of cosmetic and medical skincare procedures, including chemical peels, Botox, microneedling, and more, Dr. Green offers patients various dermal filler options such as the Restylane and Juvederm lines, Radiesse, Sculptra, and Belotero. When injecting dermal fillers, Dr. Green prefers a less-is-more approach, aiming for a smooth, bright, and naturally youthful appearance. Renowned for her high patient satisfaction, she has often been recognized as one of the top dermatologists in New York City by publications like Castle Connolly, Super Doctors, and New York Magazine.

What is Restylane Eyelight?

First introduced to the market by Galderma, Restylane Eyelight is a new hyaluronic acid-based dermal filler that uses cross-linking and NASHA technology to fill in under-eye hollows, also known as infraorbital hollows. This new formulation has a firm gel texture, allowing precise placement and helping it stay in place. As collagen production declines with age, the skin loses structure and elasticity, causing hollows to form in many areas of the face, including under the eyes, in the midface, and along the jawline. These infraorbital hollows can contribute to the appearance of dark circles, as volume loss creates dark shadows. When injected into the under-eye area, Restylane Eyelight can restore lost volume and brighten the skin, resulting in a more youthful appearance. Galderma Laboratories formulates Restylane Eyelight and has received unique approval for injection in the tear trough area under the eyes, as it is firm enough to restore lost volume for long-lasting, natural-looking results. This treatment targets the tear trough area to address the root cause—lack of volume—by filling the groove. Healthcare practitioners have trusted Restylane’s NASHA gel technology for over 25 years. To date, more than 50 million treatments with Restylane fillers have been performed, making it a non-surgical option to help reduce tired-looking eyes.

What is Restylane Eyelight used for?

Restylane Eyelight is specifically designed and approved for injection into the tear trough to fill under-eye hollows and reduce the appearance of dark circles. Dark circles and shadows under the eyes can make people feel self-conscious, especially when they often hear others ask if they are tired or stressed, and when they see themselves in photos and videos on social media. These under-eye shadows, which can make tired-looking eyes appear worse, may be caused by pigmentation, hyperpigmentation, or volume loss. As we age, the production of the structural protein collagen decreases, leading to wrinkles, increased skin laxity, and volume loss. When this volume loss occurs under the eyes, it creates hollows that cast shadows, making the eyes appear discolored. When under-eye hollows cause dark circles, Restylane Eyelight targets tired-looking eyes by addressing the root cause: a lack of volume. Once the groove is reduced and the area is smoothed, light reflects from the tear trough area. These procedures help create the appearance of bright eyes and a rejuvenated look. Restylane Eyelight is an excellent solution because its hyaluronic acid filler helps restore lost volume, resulting in smooth, firm skin in the treatment area. The dermal filler is ideal for enhancing the under-eye area and brightening the eyes.

How does Restylane under-eye filler treatment work?

The entire Restylane family of fillers, including Restylane Eyelight, is made with hyaluronic acid, a substance naturally present in the body that helps keep skin plump and hydrated. Restylane Eyelight is treated with NASHA cross-linking technology, which keeps the gel firm and in place at the injection site. The area affected by volume loss is often called the tear trough, starting at the inner corner of the eye and forming a semicircle beneath it. When injected into the treatment area, the hyaluronic acid filler immediately replaces lost volume, filling in under-eye hollows, smoothing fine lines and wrinkles, and hydrating the skin. Although the treatment provides long-lasting results, the body will eventually break down the hyaluronic acid gel, causing the effects to fade over time. According to Galderma, 93% of patients reported improvement in under-eye hollows 18 months after proper treatment. While the rate at which hyaluronic acid filler breaks down varies from person to person, the procedure can generally be repeated about once a year to maintain the results.

Who is a good candidate for Restylane Eyelight injections?

A good candidate for Restylane Eyelight injections is someone with hollowness under the eyes caused by volume loss who prefers a non-surgical way to look more refreshed. Ideal candidates are typically healthy adults over 21 with mild to moderate volume loss and skin laxity. However, people with allergies or a history of anaphylaxis to lidocaine or hyaluronic acid should avoid this treatment, as these are the main ingredients in the Restylane Eyelight formulation. Additionally, this treatment might not be suitable or meet patients’ goals if they have sagging under-eye skin or more significant skin laxity. For excess skin, a more invasive procedure may be necessary to tighten the skin before using fillers. It is important to schedule a consultation with a qualified injector, such as Dr. Green, to determine if you are a suitable candidate for Restylane Eyelight and whether it can help you achieve your aesthetic goals.

What is the process like for Restylane Eyelight treatment?

The treatment process for Restylane Eyelight begins with a consultation with Dr. Michele Green to discuss your aesthetic goals, medical history, and treatment plan. Medical photographs will be taken of the areas of concern to track progress over time. Then, Dr. Green will listen to you and collaborate with you to create a treatment plan tailored specifically to your needs. One week before your injection procedure, Dr. Green recommends avoiding blood thinners, NSAIDs, fish oil, and vitamin E. For those prone to bruising, Arnike Forte, an over-the-counter herbal supplement, can be taken to help minimize the risk of bruising.

During the appointment, a topical numbing cream will be applied one hour before the injections to keep discomfort to a minimum. Dr. Green will begin by marking the injection sites and, if necessary, applying a topical anesthetic to further reduce discomfort during the procedure. While some injectors and providers might use a blunt cannula for dermal fillers, Dr. Green typically prefers a fine needle for greater accuracy. The procedure is quick and straightforward, with no downtime afterwards, so patients can return to their usual activities immediately. Although rare, common side effects include swelling, bruising, redness, itchiness, tenderness, and lumps under the skin. These temporary effects usually resolve within a few days. You’ll notice your Restylane Eyelight results immediately after the injections, although full results may take a few weeks to develop.

What is the downtime for Restylane Eyelight?

There is no downtime with Restylane Eyelight treatment, so patients can return to their normal activities immediately. However, common side effects such as redness, swelling, bruising, itching, irritation, or tenderness at the injection site may occur. These usually resolve within seven days. Dr. Green recommends that patients avoid blood thinners like Advil before the procedure, as they can increase the risk of bruising.

Are there side effects for Restylane Eyelight?

When you seek treatment from an expert, such as a qualified, board-certified dermatologist like Dr. Michele Green, the risk of serious side effects is very low. Mild side effects can happen after any injectable treatment, including redness, swelling, itching, bruising, pain, irritation, and tenderness at the injection site. Some patients may also experience headaches and lump formation after the procedure. These side effects are mild and typically resolve on their own within a week. Patients with a history of anaphylaxis or severe allergies should avoid Restylane Eyelight treatment. If you have any questions or concerns about potential side effects, it’s best to discuss them with an experienced dermatologist like Dr. Green.

How long does it take for Restylane Eyelight to settle?

Restylane Eyelight results are usually visible immediately after treatment and take about two weeks to fully settle. The filler gradually blends into your skin’s natural tissues, a process called integration. Since this filler contains hyaluronic acid, the appearance after the initial injection will continue to improve as the acid attracts water and moisture to the skin, keeping it plump and hydrated.

How long does Restylane last under the eyes?

Restylane Eyelight is a long-lasting hyaluronic acid filler that targets under-eye hollows to help reduce dark shadows caused by volume loss. The formulation includes 1,4-butanediol diglycidyl ether (BDDE), a common cross-linking agent used in hyaluronic acid fillers. This ingredient creates a three-dimensional network of hyaluronic acid molecules, making the filler more stable and durable. This increases its longevity and helps it maintain volume and shape after injection. According to clinical trials conducted for FDA approval, 84% of patients remained satisfied with the results one year after receiving Restylane Eyelight injections. The filler can last up to 18 months, and patients can visit Dr. Green’s office about once a year for a touch-up to maintain these results.

Is Restylane safe for the under-eyes?

Yes! Restylane Eyelight was specifically FDA approved on June 5, 2023, supported by efficacy and safety data from a Phase 3 study. Using Galderma Laboratories’ formulation, Restylane Eyelight consists of hyaluronic acid, a natural substance in the body, and is cross-linked with Non-Animal Stabilized Hyaluronic Acid (NASHA), which reduces the risk of allergic reactions. In such a delicate area as under the eye, although the product is safe, it is also recommended to have the injection performed by a board-certified dermatologist with years of experience, such as Dr. Green, to help prevent any adverse effects in your aesthetic treatments.

What other Restylane fillers can be used for facial rejuvenation?

The Restylane portfolio, which includes the Restylane collection of dermal fillers, is extensive and offers a variety of options suitable for different areas of the face and body. If you notice more signs of natural aging, you might consider a liquid facelift that uses dermal fillers to achieve a more naturally youthful appearance. The members of the Restylane family of dermal fillers include:

• Restylane L – One of the original hyaluronic acid fillers, Restylane L, is an excellent choice for improving the look of moderate to severe facial wrinkles on the lower face. Specifically, it can be injected into the nasolabial folds around the nose and mouth, as well as the marionette lines along the chin, to create a smoother, more youthful appearance.
• Restylane Lyft – With a large particle size and stiff gel, Restylane Lyft is best suited for restoring lost volume to the cheekbones and mid-face, reducing facial hollows, and contouring the cheeks. Restylane Lyft can last up to a year and is also used for hand rejuvenation, adding volume to the hands for a more youthful appearance.
• Restylane Kysse – The hyaluronic acid filler Restylane Kysse, which is cross-linked with BDDE, is best injected into and around the lips to add a natural-looking fullness, improve symmetry, refine the lip contour, and reduce fine lines around the mouth. The flexible filler blends seamlessly into the lips, helping patients achieve plump, full, and well-contoured lips while preserving their expressive capabilities.
• Restylane Contour – Crafted with a higher viscosity and G-prime, Restylane Contour is the ideal treatment option for replacing lost volume and boosting new collagen growth to improve facial contours. Although the gel is thicker than most other hyaluronic acid fillers, it still offers flexible integration, allowing for a full range of facial expressions.
• Restylane Defyne –  Created with the XpresHAn technology, Restylane Defyne is best used for deep wrinkles along the nasolabial folds and around the mouth and for correcting mild to moderate chin recession. Restylane Defyne features a thicker gel than Restylane Refyne, making it particularly suitable for addressing deeper wrinkles and providing results that last up to a year.
• Restylane Refyne –  Restylane Refyne uses the cross-linking XpresHAn technology to treat mild to moderate laugh lines around the mouth, marionette lines extending down the chin, and overall facial wrinkles. A thinner, more flexible gel is perfect for smoothing moderate lines and wrinkles while allowing full facial expression. The results can last up to a year.
• Restylane Silk – Designed with a smaller particle size, Restylane Silk is ideal for treating fine lines around the face and subtle lip enhancement. Patients aiming for a perfectly defined cupid’s bow on the upper lip can choose Restylane Silk.

Restylane Eyelight Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):

When did Restylane Eyelight come out?

Galderma announced the development of Restylane Eyelight in 2021. The product was then launched in European countries and other markets in September 2021. Galderma later announced that the U.S. Food and Drug Administration approved Restylane Eyelight on June 5, 2023, after data from a Phase 3 study demonstrated the product’s safety and efficacy. Although a relatively new product, Restylane has been around for more than 25 years and has been trusted since its FDA approval in 2003 as the first non-animal hyaluronic acid filler.

Is Restylane Eyelight a filler?

Yes, Restylane Eyelight is a dermal filler made of hyaluronic acid cross-linked using NASHA technology, creating an effective gel that retains its shape and fills under-eye hollows. Restylane Eyelight is one of the latest additions to the Restylane family of dermal fillers, specifically designed to treat under-eye hollows, dark circles, and fine lines by adding volume to the tear trough area.

Does Restylane Eyelight have lidocaine?

Yes, the Restylane family of hyaluronic acid dermal fillers all contains the anesthetic lidocaine in the injectable solution, which helps numb the injection site and improve patient comfort during the procedure. Restylane Eyelight contains 0.3% lidocaine, reducing discomfort associated with the treatment. Most patients find no additional anesthetic is needed when the dermal filler contains lidocaine. However, Dr. Green may still apply a topical anesthetic to the treatment area to enhance comfort during the procedure. Still, those with a lidocaine allergy should not receive the Restylane Eyelight treatment.

Does Restylane Eyelight attract water?

Restylane Eyelight is a hyaluronic acid-based dermal filler that helps restore lost volume, hydrate the skin, and reduce dark shadows under the eyes, resulting in a brighter appearance. The Restylane Eyelight gel closely matches naturally occurring hyaluronic acid in the body. Hyaluronic acid is a humectant, meaning it attracts and retains water, which allows the filler to plump and hydrate the skin. By binding to water molecules in the skin, it increases volume and smooths the treated area. Although hyaluronic acid-based fillers hydrate the skin, the gel itself resists water absorption, making Restylane Eyelight a firm gel resistant to swelling. Using NASHA technology, it stays securely in place for a noticeable lift. While the plumping effect from the hyaluronic acid is immediate after injection, the overall appearance continues to improve as the hyaluronic acid attracts and retains more water in the skin.

How long does Restylane Eyelight last?

Restylane Eyelight provides long-lasting results, giving patients a lifted, brightened, and youthful appearance around the under-eye area. Dermal filler treatments like Restylane Eyelight are not permanent because the body gradually breaks down the filler gel over time. Although the duration of results varies among individuals, they can last up to 18 months. Dr. Green advises patients to get a touch-up every six to 12 months to maintain the treatment’s effectiveness.

How much does Restylane Eyelight cost?

Patients often wonder, “How much are Restylane Eyelight injections?” The total cost of Restylane Eyelight treatments for the under-eye area varies depending on several factors, including your location, the type of clinic you visit, and whether Restylane Eyelight is combined with other procedures. While getting treatment at a medical spa might be cheaper due to specials, the risk of serious side effects increases if you choose a less experienced provider. Restylane Eyelight should only be injected into the undereye hollow by providers who have completed the necessary training for this specific area. Without proper injector training, there’s a risk of injecting the dermal filler into a blood vessel, which can cause serious and permanent complications like skin necrosis, scarring, or vision changes. When receiving an injectable filler in such a delicate area as the eyes—or any other filler—it’s always best to see an expert injector with years of experience, such as board-certified dermatologist Dr. Michele Green in NYC.

Which Restylane is for the undereyes?

Galderma Laboratories’ new formulation, Restylane Eyelight, is designed for use underneath the eyes. This injectable gel contains hyaluronic acid, a naturally occurring substance produced by the body, cross-linked with 1,4-butanediol diglycidyl ether (BDDE). This ingredient helps form a network of HA, resulting in a gel filler that lasts longer. Specifically made for injection beneath the eyes, it aims to address volume loss in that area. This injectable is FDA-approved for treating under-eye hollows, confirming it has undergone thorough testing and is considered safe and effective for such a delicate region.

Which Restylane is for lips?

Restylane Kysse and Restylane Silk are options for lip enhancement. Restylane Silk is the first FDA-approved filler for lips, while Kysse is known for its natural look and versatility. Restylane Silk focuses on subtle improvements and smoothing fine lines around the mouth. In contrast, Restylane Kysse adds volume, reshapes the lips, and improves their texture and color. Although both products effectively enhance the lips, they address different concerns. It’s best to consult with Dr. Green to determine which treatment matches your goals and needs.

Is Restylane Eyelight worth it?

Yes! Restylane Eyelight has proven to be an excellent option for reducing under-eye hollows. To get FDA approval, a treatment or product must demonstrate safety and effectiveness through clinical studies. Restylane Eyelight was tested in a Phase 3, double-blind, multi-center clinical trial, after which researchers asked patients to rate their satisfaction. After 3 months, 87% of participants noticed a decrease in under-eye hollows, and 92% of patients reported being satisfied with the results at that time. After one year, 84% still reported satisfaction, and 93% expressed a desire to receive the treatment again to maintain the results. Most patients who received Restylane Eyelight were pleased with the results and continued to see positive effects one year after the procedure. Patients love Restylane Eyelight because it rejuvenates the under-eye area with no downtime and minimal side effects. When you consult with Dr. Green in her private Upper East Side dermatology office, she will work with you to create a personalized Restylane treatment plan designed to achieve a natural, youthful, and more refreshed look.

How do I get started with Restylane Eyelight tear trough filler today?

The appearance of undereye hollows and dark circles can make us look tired and older. Fortunately, patients can choose non-invasive Restylane Eyelight injections to rejuvenate the under-eye area and achieve a more youthful, refreshed appearance. Restylane Eyelight is made of hyaluronic acid, which adds volume and improves skin firmness. When injected under the eyes, Restylane Eyelight can fill hollows that cast shadows, helping to reduce the appearance of dark circles. If you’re looking for a non-invasive way to improve tired, sunken eyes without downtime or side effects, talk to Dr. Green today to see if Restylane Eyelight is right for you.

Dr. Michele Green is an internationally acclaimed, board-certified cosmetic dermatologist with over 25 years of experience offering some of the most refined non-invasive treatments to discerning men and women worldwide. Recognized for her dedication and expertise, she is regularly named one of NYC’s top dermatologists by Castle Connolly, New York Magazine, Super Doctors, and The New York Times. When you see Dr. Green at her private practice in Manhattan’s Upper East Side, she will collaborate with you to create a personalized rejuvenation plan tailored to your needs and goals. To learn about the latest advancements in cosmetic dermatology, call our NYC office at 212-535-3088 or contact us online today to book a consultation with Dr. Green and find out if Restylane Eyelight is the right treatment for you.