Hyaluronic acid vs neuromodulators: which treatment is best for the eye area?

When seeking a younger, fresher-looking eye area, two treatments stand out in the field of aesthetic medicine: hyaluronic acid and neuromodulators, popularly known as botulinum toxin or Botox. Both offer significant benefits, but it is essential to understand their differences in order to determine which is most suitable for each person’s individual needs.

Differences between hyaluronic acid and neuromodulators

Hyaluronic acid: This is a substance naturally found in our skin, known for its ability to retain water and provide hydration and volume. Its presence decreases with age, contributing to the formation of wrinkles and a loss of firmness. Hyaluronic acid injections aim to restore this volume and soften expression lines.

Neuromodulators: These are purified proteins that work by temporarily relaxing the muscles responsible for dynamic wrinkles—that is, wrinkles caused by repeated facial movements. By preventing muscle contraction, neuromodulators help to prevent and soften these expression lines.

Which treatment should you choose to rejuvenate the eye area?

The choice between hyaluronic acid and neuromodulators depends on the specific characteristics of the wrinkles and the area to be treated:

• Crow’s feet: These wrinkles, located around the outer corners of the eyes, are expression lines caused by the repeated contraction of the muscles when smiling or squinting. Neuromodulators are particularly effective in treating them, as they relax the muscles responsible and reduce their appearance.
• Dark circles and hollows under the eyes: When the main concern is a loss of volume or the presence of pronounced hollows beneath the eyes, hyaluronic acid is more suitable. When injected into these areas, it fills and smooths the skin, providing a more rested and rejuvenated appearance.

Combining treatments

In many cases, combining both treatments provides optimal results. For example, neuromodulators can be used to treat crow’s feet, while hyaluronic acid can be used to fill hollows beneath the eyes or add volume to the cheekbones, achieving comprehensive harmonisation of the eye area.

It is essential to consult a specialist in aesthetic medicine or oculoplastic surgery to assess each person’s individual needs and determine the most appropriate treatment. Each procedure has its own specific indications, and a professional will be able to advise on the best option for rejuvenating the eye area safely and effectively.

Dr Rob van der Veen, ophthalmologist at the Barraquer Ophthalmology Centre