You're sleeping well. But your eyes tell a different story.
Dark circles and fine lines around the eyes are rarely caused by a lack of sleep — they are usually due to thinning skin and a loss of volume. This is precisely where targeted treatment can help.
Free AURA 3D skin analysis →CHF 0 · 60 mins · no sales pressure
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Perhaps you've been there:
You’ve had a good night’s sleep — and yet someone still asks if you’re tired.
The concealer provides good coverage in the morning but settles into fine lines by the afternoon.
In side lighting and in photos, the area under the eyes looks darker and more sunken than it actually feels.
In the morning, my lower eyelids are swollen, and it takes a while for the swelling to go down.
The skin under my eyes has become thinner and more wrinkled — little lines that weren't there a few years ago.
Caffeine creams, patches, cold spoons — you’ve tried it all, but nothing lasts very long.
Why dark circles form
Dark circles under the eyes are rarely caused by a lack of sleep. The skin around the eyes is the thinnest on the face — and there are usually several underlying causes, ranging from visible blood vessels and pigment deposits to a loss of volume.
Which of these is more prominent in your case will determine what works best for you. What’s more, the same delicate skin through which the blood vessels show also develops lines earlier — the eye area is constantly in motion and therefore ages faster than the rest of the face.
The patterns in detail
- Blue or purple shades — visible blood vessels. Over the years, the delicate skin becomes thinner, making the blood vessels beneath it more prominent. This is often genetic and can develop at an early age.
- Brownish discolouration — Pigment. Genetically determined, exacerbated by UV exposure and rubbing the eyes. More common in people with darker skin tones.
- Shadows created by recesses — Loss of volume. Fat and tissue under the eye recede, creating a hollow that appears as a dark shadow when exposed to light. It’s not a question of sleep or hydration, but of structure.
- Swollen lower eyelids — Fluid. When lymphatic drainage is sluggish, fluid tends to accumulate, particularly in the morning, making the lower eyelid appear puffy. This should be distinguished from genuine eye bags — more on that in a moment.
It’s usually a combination of both. The AURA 3D analysis objectively reveals which one is more prominent in your case — and only then can you determine the right course of action.
What helps with dark circles under the eyes — and what doesn’t
Eye creams and serums remain in the outermost layer of the skin. They may make the skin appear plumper for a short while, but they do not address the underlying causes — visible blood vessels, pigment deposits and loss of volume lie deeper down. Concealer covers these imperfections but settles into fine lines as the day goes on. Neither of these addresses the root cause.
What really makes a difference works a layer deeper — on the skin’s density and the collagen in the delicate skin around the eyes. This is precisely where polynucleotides, radiofrequency and active ingredient infusions come into play.
And where we honestly reach our limits, we’ll say so: genuine under-eye bags — where fat pushes forward under the lower eyelid — are structural in nature and, in many cases, can only be permanently corrected through surgery. We do not offer this treatment. What we treat are the skin, shadow and pigmentation aspects. The analysis will show whether you have one, the other or both — without trying to talk you into anything.
How we care for the eye area
It is rare for a single treatment to address the eye area on its own. We tailor our approach specifically to your individual needs. Listed by their role:
Core treatment
In addition, depending on the cause
- Volnewmer® RF — Monopolar radiofrequency stimulates new collagen production around the eye area and provides support from within for skin that has become thinner. Usually one session, with a follow-up treatment once or twice a year.
- Fillmed NCTF® — 59 active ingredients plus hyaluronic acid for the delicate skin around the eyes. Hydration and cell activity give the skin a fresher appearance; can also be used specifically around the eyes during a facial treatment.
- Dermadrop TDA® — Needle-free infusion of hyaluronic acid and peptides, gentle enough for the eye area and with no downtime. Ideal for regular maintenance.
Dermalux™ LED is included in every facial treatment — near-infrared light helps improve microcirculation around the eyes.
The free AURA 3D skin analysis will show you which combination is right for your eye area. We measure skin density, pigmentation and shadows, and use this information to create a personalised plan for you.
Free AURA 3D skin analysis →Three steps to a fresher-looking eye area
AURA 3D Skin Analysis + Plan
We take an objective look at the eye area: skin density, pigmentation, dark circles and moisture levels. This forms the basis of your personalised plan. CHF 0, with no pressure to buy.
Your combination of treatments
Tailored to your eye area type — usually based on PolyPhil and supplemented as needed. Step by step, at your own pace.
Care & Maintenance
The results build up over a period of weeks. We touch up your colour once or twice a year — no more often than necessary — and provide you with a simple home care routine.
Specialising in skin quality, not in a particular machine.
Specialisation
Pre-ageing is our focus, not just an item on the list of treatments. Our team is V-NISSG-certified and led by pre-ageing specialist Alexandra Stroganova.
A system rather than a single device
The eye area responds to the interplay of several factors — density, collagen, pigmentation and hydration. We have a system designed for this, not just a single machine.
Honest advice
We say that when something reaches its limit — like with real bags under the eyes. Even if you don’t book anything today.
You might be wondering
What really helps with dark circles under the eyes?
That depends on the cause — and this is precisely where all-purpose creams fall short. For dark circles caused by thin skin and shadows, we primarily use polynucleotides (PolyPhil): these stimulate the fibroblasts and increase skin density, thereby reducing the appearance of visible blood vessels and shadows. A review study shows that intradermal long-chain polynucleotides are effective and well-tolerated for dark circles caused by thin, sagging skin (Annals of Dermatology, 2018). For dark circles caused by pigmentation, we combine this with other approaches — the analysis will determine which factor is predominant in your case.
Aren’t dark circles under the eyes just down to genetics — is there anything you can actually do about them?
A genetic predisposition is a real factor, but that doesn’t mean there’s nothing you can do about it. Dark circles under the eyes usually have several causes at the same time: pigmentation, thin, translucent skin, and shadows caused by a loss of volume (Roh & Chung, Dermatologic Surgery, 2009). Your constitution largely determines how quickly it returns and how consistent your maintenance routine should be. A significant improvement is possible in most cases — but there is no absolute guarantee.
Do the treatments also help with the fine lines around the eyes?
Yes. The same treatments that improve skin firmness also smooth out the fine lines around the eyes. A prospective study from 2025 documented significant improvements in the lower eyelids and crow’s feet in 42 female patients following polynucleotide injections, as measured at one, three and six months. We deliberately avoid using aggressive microneedling directly around the eyes, as the skin there is too delicate.
Do I need to have fillers or Botox injections?
No, neither is necessary. „Botox" is a brand name for botulinum toxin type A — it is injected into the muscle, temporarily relaxing it and thus smoothing out expression lines, but it does not improve skin quality. Fillers add volume from the outside and carry well-known risks in the delicate eye area: swelling, displacement and a bluish Tyndall effect. We use regenerative methods — polynucleotides and radiofrequency build up the skin’s own density and collagen. The results take longer to appear, look more natural and cannot shift out of place.
What about actual bags under the eyes?
Genuine under-eye bags occur when fat in the lower eyelid pushes forward — this is a structural issue and, in many cases, can only be permanently corrected through surgery. We do not offer this procedure, nor do we try to talk you out of it. What we treat are the skin, shadow and pigmentation issues around the eye. Whether you have genuine fat prolapse or simply shadows and thin skin, we can see this in the AURA 3D analysis — and we’ll tell you honestly.
Am I too young or too old for this, given my age?
There is no set age. At a younger age, the focus is usually on prevention and skin quality — keeping the eye area firm and supple from an early stage. Later on, the emphasis shifts more towards firmness and texture, once the skin has become thinner. It is not age that matters, but what the skin reveals — and we will look at this together during the analysis.
Will people be able to tell that I’ve had work done — and how soon will I see results?
The aim is for you to look more rested, not „treated". Polynucleotides gradually rebuild the skin over several weeks, usually in a short course of two to three sessions spaced a few weeks apart. The first signs of rejuvenation often appear after a few weeks, with the full effect visible after the course. Afterwards, one or two touch-up sessions per year maintain the results.
How much does treatment of the eye area cost?
That depends on the combination. PolyPhil costs CHF 500 per ampoule, a course of three costs CHF 1,200; an NCTF ampoule costs CHF 300. The analysis will determine which combination and how many sessions are best for you. You can find all our prices on our Prices page →. If you’d like to find out what your eye area needs without any obligation, start with the Skin Quiz → or directly with the free AURA 3D analysis.
Before you buy another eye cream, let’s take a closer look.
The cause of your dark circles can be treated effectively — but only if we know what the main issue is. The AURA 3D skin analysis measures skin density, pigmentation and shadows, and sets out your personalised plan. Free of charge, with no pressure to buy.
Free AURA 3D skin analysis →CHF 0 · 60 mins · Konradstrasse 1, 8005 Zurich Central Station
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What our customers say
„Aleksandra was very professional, warm and friendly. She gave me excellent advice on what I needed, even though I’d booked a completely different treatment. All the risks and considerations were clearly explained, and I never felt like I was being pressured into anything. A great consultation… I’ve found my new go-to place for treatments.'
„A huge thank you to Alex for her advice. Her expertise and her calm, professional manner won me over straight away. She takes her time, tailors her advice to individual needs and gives fantastic tips for a home skincare routine. It’s exactly the kind of consultation you’d hope for – knowledgeable, warm and genuine."
„I really appreciate that there’s no pressure to buy extra services or products – just genuine, high-quality care. After nearly a year of visiting Alestetics, I’ve had nothing but positive experiences. Alex has been professional, kind and attentive throughout my visits. I highly recommend them!"
„I love coming here; it always feels like I’m going to a spa. They don’t try to sell me anything and are very open about what the treatments can (and cannot) do for me. They take health and wellbeing very seriously and always make sure I know how to look after myself outside the clinic as well."
„Alex is amazing! She listens to what the customer needs and explains the process. She is very knowledgeable and also makes recommendations. For me, her fluency in English is extremely helpful when we communicate."
„I had a Vivace treatment combined with PRX-T33. The appointment went smoothly; the staff were very professional and efficient. The clinic is close to HB and centrally located. Alexandra was very nice and friendly. I’ll definitely be coming back!"
„I had RF microneedling and EXILIS treatments on my stomach at Alestetics and am extremely pleased with the results. In fact, the results are much more noticeable than I had expected. Katia is highly professional, very attentive and incredibly warm. I highly recommend her!"
„I spent a long time looking for the right salon for me and I’m absolutely delighted that I chose alestetics®. The salon is beautiful, and everything is spotlessly clean and hygienic. Thanks to the team’s caring, friendly and professional manner, I felt very comfortable and safe throughout the entire treatment."
„I’ve been to Alestetics several times now. Before the treatment, they carried out an Aura skin analysis, during which they explained my skin condition to me in great detail — it was incredibly professional and transparent. Katia, Antonia and Alex are incredibly caring, knowledgeable and professional. You never feel like 'just another customer'."
„Today I had my first laser treatment (4 areas) with Katia and I felt completely at ease. She was particularly sensitive to my needs, as I can be a bit sensitive to pain at times. Her friendly manner made the treatment a really pleasant experience!"
„Katia is simply brilliant at her job! I’ve now had my third laser treatment. As I’m quite sensitive to pain, I really appreciate the fact that Katia always distracts me with a friendly chat. I feel very well looked after."
„I had a wonderful experience at the aesthetics clinic with Katia. She took the time to listen to my concerns, explained everything clearly, and made sure I felt confident throughout. I would highly recommend Katia for high-quality and truly personalised treatment."
„Review of the BTL Exilis treatment. I’m an active man and work out regularly, but despite my best efforts, I couldn’t get rid of that stubborn belly fat. I noticed a difference after just the first treatment. After several sessions, the difference was clearly visible."
„All the treatments here are sensational. This wellness haven truly lives up to its reputation. It’s centrally located — right next to Zurich main station — and the atmosphere at the spa is serene and calm. Every visit to Alestetics is my monthly treat and feels like a mini-break."
„I’ve had several Endospheres treatments at alestetics. Alex and Katia are very professional, but also very friendly and caring. They’ve always taken my needs and wishes into account (avoiding the tummy after pregnancy). I can’t recommend them highly enough!"
„I had five EXILIS treatments with Katia at alestetics®. The service was excellent – Katia is very professional and warm, and explains everything in detail. You feel at ease with her straight away. I’d definitely recommend her!"
„I feel understood, and they're absolutely lovely and professional!!"
„I had an excellent experience with the Icoone treatment. Antonia was simply fantastic – very professional, warm and incredibly friendly. She took plenty of time and made sure I felt comfortable throughout the entire treatment."
„I visit Alestetics regularly for Hydrafacial and microneedling treatments. The team are really friendly and flexible. The location is perfect, and the studio is clean and comfortable. After three treatments, my skin feels much clearer and my pores are slightly smaller."
„I feel completely at ease with Alex and her team! From the welcome to the treatments, the hygiene and the atmosphere: everything is simply always perfect. I originally came across Alestetics because of their laser treatments, but now I also go there for my facials."
„The treatments at Alestetics have worked wonders on my sensitive skin. With Katia, you’re in absolutely professional hands!"
„I'm absolutely delighted to have found this clinic in Zurich where, after just four sessions, I've seen amazing results! The girl who looks after me, Katia, is so lovely; she put me at ease right from the start and is incredibly professional!"
„My favourite salon in Zh! Top-notch service, lovely welcome tea, friendly staff, helpful consultations, and I left feeling happy and glowing, looking gorgeous after my treatments. Thanks Katia, Alexandra, and the Alestetics team – one love!"
„At first, I was really impressed by the Endospheres therapy. But the Icoone treatment has surpassed everything: it massages the skin gently and painlessly from head to toe. I started the treatments less for firmer skin and more for my health. The team are like best friends to me."
„Very friendly and professional staff, who take the time to carry out a skin analysis and offer valuable advice! I highly recommend it. It was a pleasure to have the AURA 3D skin analysis and to discuss my daily skincare routine."
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