What causes bags under the eyes

What causes bags under the eyes

Eyes hold a special place in facial aesthetics. However, due to many reasons, our beautiful eyes hide away in the bags under our eyes. These bags are the most bothersome concern, hindering overall beauty. If you are someone struggling with these under-eye bags, then you must understand the underlying causes for this puffiness. While aging is a common culprit, several other factors contribute to their formation. You will explore a breakdown of the key reasons why you might be experiencing under-eye bags in this article.

How The Under Eye Bags Are Formed?

With increasing age, the tissues and muscles that are supposed to support the eyelids weaken. This loss of elasticity makes the fat move downwards. This fat deposits under the eye, making it look puffy. Moreover, the skin also loses collagen and elastin, making the skin thicker and less able to hold the structure; thus, an under-eye bag is formed.

What Are The Main Causes Of Under Eye Bags?

Not only aging but other factors like lack of sleep or any underlying health condition can be the reason behind this. Let’s have a quick view over these causes below:

  • Smoking: Smoking has numerous side effects, and one main effect is reducing blood flow and collagen production. This causes skin to lose its elasticity, resulting in under-eye bags. 
  • Genetics: Sadly, many face the under-eye bags due to their genes. If this puffiness of eyes is present in the family, you are most likely experiencing it too.
  • Underlying Medical Conditions: Some medical conditions like dermatitis, thyroid, or kidney problems give rise to under-eye bags. The reason is the collection of fluid under the eye making it look puffy. 
  • Sodium intake: Taking too much salt in a diet can increase water retention in the body. It affects the delicate under-eye area too. 
  • Allergies: Allergies that trigger nasal congestion can be a cause for puffiness around the eyes. 
  • Hormonal fluctuations: Some hormonal changes, especially in women, during their menstrual cycle and pregnancy can cause extra fluid retention making the under eye puffy.
  • Excessive sun exposure: UV radiation damages the collagen and elastin of the skin. This gives rise to wrinkles and puffiness of the eyes. This is the early sign of aging happening due to high sun exposure.
  • Lack of sleep: This is the cause of many health issues, and under-eye bags are one of them. Lack of sleep disturbs the fluid balance and results in puffiness under the eyes.

Addressing Under-Eye Bags

Non- Surgical Solutions

These non- surgical procedures can give you the perfect under eye that you deserve. Here are some common procedures:

  1. Fillers: It involves hyaluronic acid, a jelly like substance which is placed under the eye to make it smooth. The result lasts for six to 12 months. 
  2. Laser- Resurfacing: With this technique, the wrinkled skin under the eye is removed by a laser. It triggers the production of collagen, resulting in smooth skin. The results can last for years if you take good care of your skin. 
  3. Chemical Peels: It also removes the wrinkles under the eye where a chemical solution dissolves the old skin to reveal a new brighter skin from underneath. Results are long lasting if proper care is taken.

Surgical Solutions

Say goodbye to puffy eyes forever with a lower eyelid lift (blepharoplasty). It is a procedure to be done by a skilled surgeon. The fat is readjusted from the lower eye area and tightens the muscle and skin to make it more smooth. This is a lifetime solution to the under-eye bags.

At Home Care

There is nothing that can’t be treated by a good lifestyle. Taking the following steps to address your under-eye puffiness can reduce its appearance and prevent further puffiness of the eyes.

  • Prioritize sleep: Aim for 7-8 hours of quality sleep each night.
  • Reduce salt intake:Limit your salt consumption.
  • Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water. 
  • Manage allergies: Address allergies with proper medication.
  • Quit smoking: To increase overall health and reduce puffiness, quitting smoking is a must-step.
  • Sun protection: Always wear sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher to protect your delicate under-eye skin.
  • Cool compresses: Apply cool compresses to the under-eye area to reduce inflammation and puffiness.
  • Elevating your head while sleeping: This can help prevent fluid accumulation around the eyes while you are undergoing some allergic reactions.

Final Thought

The puffiness of the under eye is a very common concern. By doing some lifestyle changes, these can be handled effectively. By drinking enough water and avoiding excess sun exposure, you can protect your youthful look too. If you have concerns about persistent puffiness or suspect an underlying medical condition, consult a healthcare professional for personalized advice.



ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Alberico J. Sessa
Alberico J. Sessa
Alberico J. Sessa, M.D. is a member of the American Board of Cosmetic Surgery & is a member of the American Academy of Cosmetic Surgery. Dr. Sessa has successfully treated hundreds of patients with a high satisfaction rate.
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