Dark circles have several causes, and the right treatment depends on which one you have. This guide compares tear trough filler and Rejuran I so you can plan safely on a trip to Seoul.
Under-eye filler and Rejuran I treat different causes of dark circles. Tear trough filler places a small amount of soft hyaluronic acid to soften a hollow and the shadow it casts, with results lasting about 9–12 months. Rejuran I is a polynucleotide booster that supports thin, crepey under-eye skin over two to three sessions. Filler suits structural hollows; Rejuran I suits thin, tired-looking skin. At Dernia Clinic Myeongdong in Seoul, under-eye filler starts from ₩290,000 and Rejuran Eye from ₩189,000 (KRW, excluding 10% VAT).
Prices are in Korean won, exclude 10% VAT and are confirmed by a doctor at consultation.
Under-eye filler vs Rejuran I: the short answer
If your dark circles are mostly a shadow caused by a hollow groove under the eye, under-eye (tear trough) filler is usually the more effective option. If they are mostly caused by thin, crepey skin that lets the darker tissue beneath show through, Rejuran I is often the gentler and more suitable choice. Many people have a mix, and the two can be combined in a staged plan.
Dark circles can also come from pigmentation, visible blood vessels or under-eye bags. Neither filler nor Rejuran I fixes pigment or bags on its own, which is why a doctor's assessment matters before you book.
What causes dark circles?
- Hollows (tear trough): a groove between the lower lid and cheek casts a shadow that looks dark, especially under overhead light.
- Thin skin: as under-eye skin thins, the muscle and vessels beneath show through as a purple or bluish tone.
- Pigmentation: brown discoloration from genetics, rubbing or sun exposure.
- Bags: small fat pads that bulge forward and cast a shadow below them.
A simple test: if the darkness improves when you tilt your face up toward a light, a hollow is likely involved. If gently stretching the skin lightens a purplish tone, thin skin is likely part of it. See dark circles and under-eye hollows for more detail.
What is under-eye filler?
Under-eye filler uses a soft, low-swelling hyaluronic acid gel placed in tiny amounts, usually with a blunt cannula, to soften the tear trough. Typically 0.5–1cc in total covers both eyes. The aim is to reduce the shadow, not to create visible puffiness. Results are visible once swelling settles and last about 9–12 months. Read more on our under-eye filler page.
What is Rejuran I (Rejuran Eye)?
Rejuran I is a finer polynucleotide (PN) formula from Pharma Research, designed for the thin skin around the eyes. Polynucleotides are DNA fragments that support the skin's own repair processes. Rather than filling, Rejuran I aims to improve skin thickness, elasticity and texture, softening fine lines, crepiness and the tired look of thin under-eye skin. Most people plan two to three sessions, two to four weeks apart. See the Rejuran Eye page.
Under-eye filler vs Rejuran I compared
| Under-eye filler | Rejuran I | |
|---|---|---|
| Best for | Hollows and the shadow they cast | Thin, crepey, tired-looking skin |
| How it works | Soft HA gel adds support | Polynucleotides support skin repair |
| Sessions | Usually one | Usually 2–3, 2–4 weeks apart |
| Onset | Visible once swelling settles | Gradual over weeks |
| Downtime | Possible swelling or bruising 2–5 days | Mild swelling 1–2 days, small bumps |
| Risk level | Higher; serious rare risks | Lower; mainly bruising and bumps |
Who is a good candidate for each?
Usually a good fit
- Filler: a clear groove under the eye with good skin quality
- Rejuran I: thin, crepey skin and fine lines
- Rejuran I: people who want a low-risk first step
- Both: a mild hollow plus thin skin, treated in stages
Talk to the doctor first
- Prominent under-eye bags (filler can make them look worse)
- Fluid retention or puffy eyes in the morning
- Pregnancy or breastfeeding
- Fish or salmon allergy (for Rejuran)
If bags are the main issue, ask about under-eye bag options.
What happens on treatment day
- English consultation. A licensed doctor examines your under-eyes in different lighting, checks for bags, pigment and skin thickness, and tells you honestly whether filler, Rejuran I or neither is the right choice.
- Cleansing and numbing. The area is cleansed, and numbing cream is applied for about 20–30 minutes.
- Filler injection. Soft HA is placed deep and in small amounts, usually through a blunt cannula, with the doctor checking the result in an upright position.
- Rejuran I injection. The polynucleotide formula is placed in many tiny, shallow points across the under-eye skin, which leaves small bumps for a day or so.
- Cooling and aftercare. A cold pack helps limit swelling, and you receive written aftercare in English with a contact number.
Results timeline
Filler softens the shadow as soon as initial swelling settles, usually within one to two weeks, and the result lasts about 9–12 months. Rejuran I works more slowly: many people notice smoother, slightly brighter-looking skin a few weeks after the first session, with a clearer change after the second or third. Because polynucleotides support the skin rather than fill it, results build gradually and are best maintained with periodic top-up sessions.
Neither treatment can change genetics, sleep or allergies, which also affect how dark the under-eyes look. Good sleep, sun protection and avoiding rubbing the eyes all help the result last.
Is under-eye filler safe? Risks you should know
The under-eye area is one of the most delicate places to inject. The skin is thin and there are important blood vessels nearby, so this is a treatment to approach carefully.
- Common: swelling, bruising and tenderness for a few days.
- Tyndall effect: filler placed too superficially can show as a bluish tint; it can be dissolved.
- Prolonged swelling or puffiness: the area can hold fluid, which is why small volumes and soft gels are used.
- Rare but serious: vascular occlusion, where filler blocks a blood vessel. Around the eyes this can, very rarely, cause skin damage or vision loss. Doctors reduce the risk with blunt cannulas, slow injection and small amounts, and keep hyaluronidase on hand.
Rejuran I mainly carries the risk of bruising, small bumps for a day or two and mild swelling. Seek help immediately for severe pain, skin blanching or any change in vision after an eye-area injection. Read side effects and when to contact us.
How much do under-eye filler and Rejuran I cost in Seoul (2026)?
| Option | Coverage | Price (KRW) |
|---|---|---|
| Under-eye filler, Korean soft HA 1cc | Both eyes | ₩290,000 |
| Under-eye filler, Restylane 1cc | Both eyes | ₩390,000 |
| Under-eye filler, Juvéderm Volbella 1cc | Both eyes | ₩450,000 |
| Rejuran Eye 1cc | Both under-eye areas | ₩189,000 |
| Rejuran Eye 2cc | Under-eyes and crow's feet | ₩339,000 |
Prices exclude 10% VAT. The tourist VAT refund on cosmetic procedures ended on January 1, 2026 — see the VAT refund guide. See also the under-eye filler price page.
Planning an under-eye treatment around your Seoul trip
Because bruising can take several days to fade, treat early in your trip. Rejuran I works best as a series, so a longer stay or a return visit helps; a single session is still worthwhile as a start.
- Book ahead. Send your dates and a photo in natural light through our consultation form.
- Avoid your arrival day. Puffiness from a long flight can make assessment harder.
- Getting here. Dernia is near Myeongdong Station (Line 4) and Euljiro 1-ga Station (Line 2).
- Consider a package. The Eye Rejuvenation Package combines eye-area treatments.
Flying home? Most people can fly the day after either treatment, but leave a few days after under-eye filler so your doctor can check you. Sleep with your head slightly raised and use cool compresses for swelling. See flying after fillers.
Frequently asked questions
Is under-eye filler or Rejuran I better for dark circles?
Filler is better for shadows caused by a hollow groove. Rejuran I is better for thin, crepey skin. A doctor checks which cause is dominant.
Is under-eye filler risky?
It is one of the more delicate filler areas. Bruising and swelling are common, and rare but serious risks include vascular occlusion, so it should only be done by an experienced doctor.
How many Rejuran I sessions do I need?
Most people plan two to three sessions, two to four weeks apart, then maintenance as needed.
Can Rejuran I fix dark pigmentation under the eyes?
Not directly. Brown pigmentation usually needs a different approach, such as gentle laser or skincare, which your doctor can advise on.
How long does under-eye filler last?
Usually about 9–12 months, depending on the product and your metabolism.
Can I combine under-eye filler and Rejuran I?
Yes, often in stages. Your doctor decides the order and spacing to keep the area safe and natural.
Treating dark circles in Seoul?
Tell us about your under-eyes and travel dates. A doctor examines you in person, explains which cause is driving your dark circles, and confirms a safe plan and price in English.
Book a consultation View 2026 pricesRelated reading
This article is for general information and does not replace a medical consultation. Results vary between individuals, and suitability, treatment plan and final price are confirmed by a licensed doctor after an in-person examination. Dernia Clinic Myeongdong does not publish patient testimonials or before-and-after claims.