More than just a cosmetic issue, bags beneath your eyes can frequently be an indication of underlying problems affecting your general health. Bags under your eyes, also known as periorbital puffiness or eye bags, are a common concern that can affect people of all ages. While not typically a severe health issue, they can contribute to a tired or aged appearance. These ugly traits, which include puffiness, dark circles, and a fatigued appearance, can be caused by a variety of factors, such as dehydration, stress, lack of sleep, or even a genetic tendency.
To effectively remove under-eye bags and restore a rejuvenated, young appearance, it is imperative to understand their underlying origins. You can try to reduce these constant reminders of exhaustion and revitalise your look by using a mix of lifestyle changes, skincare practices, and maybe even professional treatments. Let us dive into this blog to learn what puffy eyes are, their causes and how to get rid of them.
Table Of Contents
1. What Are Puffy Eyes?
2. What Causes Bags Under Eyes?
3. How To Get Rid Of Under-Eye Bags?
4. Expert’s Advice
5. The Final Say
6. FAQs
7. References
What Are Puffy Eyes?
Bags under the eyes refer to mild swelling or puffiness in the tissues beneath your lower eyelids. This condition often comes with other signs of ageing, such as dark circles or loose skin around the eyes. Although these bags are usually not harmful, they may be unattractive and occasionally uncomfortable.
The skin around the eyes is thinner and more fragile than the skin on other areas of the face. As we age, the tissues and muscles around the eyes weaken, and fat that supports the eyes can move into the lower eyelids, creating the appearance of puffiness or "bags."
Also Read: 7 Causes of Occupational Stress, How It Affects Your Health And Essential Tips To Manage It
What Causes Bags Under Eyes?
Let us have a look at these puffy eyes causes:
1. Ageing
Ageing weakens the tissues and muscles supporting the eyelids. As we age, fat that usually supports the eyes moves into the lower eyelids, causing puffiness. The skin also loses elasticity, allowing fluid to accumulate more easily. This process makes under-eye bags more prominent, often accompanied by dark circles and fine lines.
2. Lack Of Sleep
Inadequate sleep causes poor blood circulation and fluid retention, making the under-eye area appear puffy. Sleep deprivation disrupts the body's normal repair process, leading to dilated blood vessels and dark circles. Over time, chronic lack of sleep can weaken the skin's elasticity, contributing to long-term puffiness. To maintain an optimal sleep cycle, consider trying yoga for better sleep.
3. Fluid Retention
Excessive fluid retention often occurs after eating salty foods or due to lying flat while sleeping. Fluid builds up in the tissues under the eyes, causing swelling. Gravity further draws the fluid to this area, making the puffiness more noticeable, primarily upon waking.
4. Allergies
Allergies trigger the release of histamines, causing inflammation, swelling, and itching around the eyes. Rubbing the eyes in response to itching worsens puffiness. Allergic reactions can also lead to fluid buildup and blood vessel dilation, making the under-eye area appear swollen and irritated.
5. Genetics
Genetics can play a significant role in developing puffy eyes. Some people are predisposed to have fat deposits or weaker tissues around their eyes, making them more prone to puffiness. This trait can manifest early in life and become more noticeable with age, regardless of lifestyle factors.
6. High-Sodium Diet
An excessively salty diet may cause water retention, which makes the puffiness around the eyes worse. The body retains more fluid when there is an excess of salt, which results in swollen tissues. This fluid accumulation often becomes more noticeable in areas like the face, particularly under the eyes, where the skin is thinner. For a healthy diet, consider ToneOp Fit’s Balanced Diet plan.
7. Hormonal Changes
Hormonal fluctuations, especially during menstruation, pregnancy, or menopause, can lead to fluid retention and puffy eyes. These changes affect water balance and blood flow, making the under-eye area more susceptible to swelling. Puffy eyes are familiar during hormonal shifts due to increased fluid accumulation. To manage hormonal issues, try Ova 360 sachets from ToneOp Care.
Also Read: Diet For Hormonal Imbalance: Fix Your Hormones With These Key Nutrients And 8 Vital Foods
8. Dehydration
The body retains water when dehydrated, which results in puffiness, particularly around the sensitive eye region. When the skin lacks moisture, it becomes thinner and more prone to puffiness. Dehydration also causes dark circles, as blood vessels become more visible through dry, lacklustre skin.
Drink 8-10 glasses of water every day to maintain a good hydration routine. To revamp your routine, you can also implement green tea, herbal teas, and smoothies with Wheat Grass Powder.
9. Smoking
Smoking damages collagen and weakens the skin's structure, causing sagging and puffiness around the eyes. The toxins in cigarettes reduce skin elasticity, making puffiness more pronounced over time. Additionally, smoking causes fluid retention and poor circulation, leading to swelling and under-eye bags.
10. Alcohol Consumption
Alcohol dehydrates the body, leading to fluid retention and puffiness around the eyes. It also dilates blood vessels, making the under-eye area appear swollen and dark. The dehydration caused by alcohol reduces skin elasticity, exacerbating puffiness and contributing to a tired, puffy appearance.
Also Read: Adopt These 10 Healthy Habits For Good Health And Unlock 10 Lifestyle Benefits!
How To Get Rid Of Under-Eye Bags?
Here is how to get rid of eye bags:
1. Cold Compress
A cold compress helps constrict blood vessels, reducing swelling and puffiness. To apply, soak a clean washcloth in cold water or use a cold spoon. For 10 to 15 minutes, gently press it against your closed eyes. For the same result, you may also use some chilled cucumber slices or a bag of frozen peas covered with fabric. Repeat daily, especially in the morning, to visibly reduce puffiness.
2. Cucumber Slices
Cucumbers have anti-inflammatory properties that help soothe and reduce puffiness. Slice a chilled cucumber into thick pieces and place one slice over each eye. Let them sit for 10-15 minutes while you relax. The cucumber's hydrating properties and cool temperature can lessen under-eye bags and reduce irritation. Do this regularly for noticeable results.
3. Tea Bags
The caffeine in tea bags reduces puffiness by improving circulation and shrinking blood vessels. After brewing green or black tea, chill the tea bags in the refrigerator. Once cold, place the tea bags over your eyes for 10-15 minutes. The antioxidants and tannins in the tea also help tighten the skin and reduce swelling. Use this remedy as needed to relieve tired eyes.
4. Aloe Vera Gel
Aloe vera’s hydrating and anti-inflammatory properties can reduce puffiness. For a few minutes, gently massage a tiny amount of fresh aloe vera gel into the area around your eyes. Leave it on overnight or for at least 10-15 minutes before rinsing. The gel moisturises the skin and stimulates circulation, helping reduce swelling and dark circles.
5. Potato Slices
Potatoes contain natural starch and enzymes that help reduce puffiness and lighten dark circles. Cut a chilled potato into thin slices and apply them to your eyes for 10-15 minutes. Potatoes have mild bleaching properties and work to soothe inflammation, providing a cooling effect that helps reduce under-eye bags. Repeat daily for best results.
6. Rose Water
Rose water reduces puffiness because of its calming and anti-inflammatory qualities. Dip two cotton pads in cold rose water and place them on your closed eyes for 10-15 minutes. The cooling sensation reduces swelling and refreshes tired eyes. You can repeat this remedy twice daily for a natural reduction in puffiness and to brighten the skin around your eyes.
Also Read: 12 Rose Water Benefits For Face And 7 Ways To Use It To Get Radiant & Youthful Skin!
7. Coconut Oil
Rich in antioxidants and moisturising properties, coconut oil can reduce inflammation and hydrate the delicate skin under the eyes. Gently massage a few drops of virgin coconut oil around your eyes in circular motions before bed. Keep it on overnight and wash it off in the morning. Regular application helps reduce puffiness, dark circles, and fine lines, leaving the skin nourished.
8. Milk-Soaked Pads
The lactic acid in milk soothes and hydrates the skin, reducing puffiness and inflammation. Soak two cotton pads in cold milk and place them over your eyes for 10-15 minutes. The cool temperature helps constrict blood vessels while the milk’s proteins and enzymes hydrate and reduce swelling. Use this remedy once or twice daily for best results.
Also Read: 15 Surprising Health Benefits of Milk And Honey That You Probably Didn't Know!
9. Turmeric And Pineapple Paste
Turmeric has anti-inflammatory properties, and pineapple contains bromelain, which reduces puffiness. Combine the pineapple juice and turmeric powder to form a paste. After applying it under your eyes, leave it there for ten to fifteen minutes, then gently rinse it off. This remedy helps reduce swelling, lighten dark circles, and improve skin texture. Use it 2-3 times a week for noticeable improvements.
Expert’s Advice
To combat bags under your eyes, consider incorporating more potassium-rich foods into your diet. Potassium aids in the body's fluid equilibrium, which can lessen puffiness. Include foods like bananas, avocados, and sweet potatoes, which are excellent sources of potassium.
Additionally, staying hydrated is crucial; aim for at least 8 glasses of water daily to prevent fluid retention. Eat fewer items high in salt because too much sodium can make you more prone to puffiness. Lastly, eat a balanced diet rich in antioxidants from fruits and vegetables to support skin health and reduce inflammation around the eyes.
Health Expert
Akshata Gandevikar
The Final Say
Bags under the eyes are a common concern, often associated with ageing, lifestyle choices, and other factors. Although generally not dangerous, they can impact how a person looks and feels about themselves.
Fortunately, eye bags can be less noticeable with a variety of over-the-counter medications, medical procedures, and lifestyle modifications. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle, managing stress, staying hydrated, and protecting your skin from sun damage can go a long way in preventing puffiness and keeping your under-eye area looking its best.
FAQs
1. What is the remedy for bags under eyes?
Some quick remedies for bags under eyes are:
- Get enough sound sleep
- Cold compress
- Reduce your salt intake
- Quit smoking
- Use under eye cream that has caffeine
2. What is the main cause of puffy eyes?
Some causes of puffy eyes are:
- Not getting enough sleep
- Excessive salt intake
- Smoking
- Ageing
- Allergies
- Genetics
3. How can I stop puffy eyes?
You can start with:
- Quitting smoking
- Reducing salt consumption in your meals
- Sleeping for an adequate number of hours
- Take medication for allergies
- Eat more potassium
4. What deficiency causes puffy eyes?
One main cause of puffy eyes is believed to be a deficiency in either vitamin K or B12. Include lots of fruits and vegetables in your diet along with plenty of water to get all the vitamins and minerals.
References
- https://www.cigna.com/knowledge-center/bags-dark-circles-under-eyes
- https://orthodermaclinic.com/how-to-get-rid-of-bags-under-eyes/
- https://health.clevelandclinic.org/how-to-get-rid-of-bags-under-your-eyes
- https://www.medicinenet.com/homemade_remedy_for_under_eye_puffiness/article.htm
- https://www.aao.org/eye-health/tips-prevention/bags-under-eyes
- https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/bags-under-eyes/symptoms-causes/syc-20369927
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