How To Treat Under Eye Bags
Heavy under eye bags can stem from many different sources including lack of sleep, allergies and even genetics. They’re a common issue for many people, especially as we age. In this article, we’ll discuss what they are and how to treat them.
What Are Under Eye Bags?
Bags under the eyes are caused by mild swelling and puffiness, and are very common as we age as the tissue in the eye area weakens. Fat that helps support the eye begins moving to the lower eyelids, causing them to appear puffy and allowing for fluid to accumulate in that area.
What Causes Under Eye Bags?
Most often eye bags appear when the tissue structure and muscles around the eye area begins to weaken. However several factors can accelerate this process including:
- Fluid retention, specifically upon waking up or having a salty meal.
- Lack of sleep
- Aging
- Smoking
- Allergies
- Medical conditions like dermatitis, dermatomyositis, renal disease and thyroid eye disease
- Genetics
How To Treat Under Eye Bags
At-Home Options
Caffeine
Caffeine is a vascoconstrictor, meaning it constricts blood vessels. This works to reduce puffiness and helps the appearance of under eye bags. Many brands sell eye creams formulated with caffeine or you can also use chilled tea bags on closed eyes!
Cold Compresses
Using a cold compress to cool and soothe the eye area will lessen inflammation and swelling by reducing blood flow to the area. You can use anything cold such as an ice pack, chilled cucumber slices, refrigerated spoons, or a frozen bag of vegetables over the eye area for just a few minutes.
Hemorrhoid Creams
Over the counter hemorrhoid creams contain an ingredient called phenylephrine, which narrows the blood vessels and reduces swelling. However these must be used with caution, irritation can occur as these products aren’t specifically made for the eye area.
Medical Options
Nonsurgical
There’s a few noninvasive treatments that can smooth the under eye area;
- Chemical peel: A chemical peel treats sagging under eye skin by removing the superficial top layers. An in-office application with your esthetician or dermatologist will help dissolve old skin cells. This reveals tighter, firmer looking skin with results lasting up to a few years.
- Filler: This treatment involves injecting filler (usually hylauronic acid) into where the under eye and cheek meet to create a smooth transition. Results can last six to 12 months.
- Laser resurfacing: This treatment uses a laser to remove surface layers of skin in the under eye area as well as stimulate new collagen growth. This results in firmer skin and a reduced appearance of under eye bags. Results can last years depending on skin type and sun exposure.
Surgical
A lower eyelid lift (blepharoplasty) is an outpatient procedure where a surgeon readjust the fat in the lower eye area. The muscle is tightened so the skin appears smoother, and a lower eyelid lift removes under eye bags for life.
Takeaway
Under eye bags can stem from a number of reasons, but there are also many ways to treat them. If you’re unsure which option may be best for you, check with your esthetician or dermatologist as they’ll be able to guide you in the right direction and discuss your options.
