Testing of volufiline serums and balms found modest, cumulative improvement in undereye hollowness, with smoother makeup application and a slightly plumper look rather than dramatic volume restoration.
Experts said social media overstates the ingredient as a “topical filler”: volufiline’s plant-derived sarsasapogenin may encourage lipid buildup in fat cells, but research supports only limited plumping.
Jessica Manges and Maro Mehdi said it is better suited to mild crepiness, fine lines and dehydration-related hollowing than true dark circles or significant volume loss.
Among products tried, The Ordinary’s 92% volufiline serum, Medicube’s 5% balm stick and Abib’s PDRN cream were highlighted for targeted use under eyes, on smile lines and on tech-neck areas.