Fine Lines and Wrinkles - Would Microneedling Help My Undereyes? (Photos)

Fractional CO2 laser is an excellent tool for skin rejuvenation in our center in Santa Monica. We use the fractional multi-depth ablative approach to help resurface the skin, recontour acne scars, improve incisional plastic surgery scars, and reduce surface irregularities from skin tone to dark pigmentation. Our approach utilizes a multi-depth approach that targets melanocytes in the epidermis and collagen fibroblasts in the dermis. This approach can be combined with a TCA Peel in a process known as a sapphire peel. Fractional laser is excellent for acne scars and contour scars in the skin. Patients are advised to undergo skin protocols with Melarase creams before and after treatment to help reduce pigmentation. Melarase AM, Melarase PM, and Melapads can seriously improve surface sun damage and UV related pigmentation. After the laser, we expect redness for a few weeks as the skin improves. PRP and Hydrafacial enzyme facials can further improve skin quality after fractional co2.

Best,
Dr. Karamanoukian
Realself100 Surgeon

Thank you for sharing your photo. The under-eye area is one of the first places where fine lines appear because the skin there is naturally thin and delicate. What you’re seeing looks like early fine lines mixed with a bit of natural under-eye hollowing and texture—very common and very treatable.

Microneedling can help, but with an important note:
The under-eye skin is extremely thin, so only gentle microneedling (or even better, RF microneedling at low settings) is used in this area. When done correctly, it helps stimulate collagen, smooth fine lines, and improve overall texture. It won’t over-tighten, but it can make the lines softer and the skin look healthier over time.

Here are a few effective options, depending on the level of improvement you’re seeking:

1. Gentle Microneedling / RF Microneedling (low setting)

Stimulates collagen

Softens fine lines

Improves crepey texture

This is a good, safe option for early lines like yours.

2. Under-eye Laser Resurfacing (fractional laser)

A light fractional laser can target fine lines more aggressively than microneedling and improve brightness and texture. It’s especially helpful when lines are etched in.

3. Hydrating Under-Eye Filler (if mild hollowing is present)

If the fine lines are worsened by a shadow or slight loss of volume, a very subtle amount of under-eye filler can soften the appearance and support the skin. This has to be done conservatively.

4. Topical Retinoids / Retinol

If tolerated, this helps build collagen long-term and improves fine lines gradually.

5. Under-eye Skin Boosters
Treatments like polynucleotides (PDRN) or hyaluronic acid skin boosters can improve hydration and elasticity without adding volume.

Overall, microneedling can absolutely help, but the best results often come from a combination of collagen-stimulating treatments and good skin care. With the right approach, your under-eye area can look smoother and more refreshed.