Bags under the eyes can mean different things. Loose skin, pockets of fat, pigmentation (change in skin color) and natural shadowing can all result in dark circles, a fatigued appearance, or “bags under your eyes.” Though these features can be inherited (passed down from parents) and seen in youth, they often get worse with age. Show
What Causes Bags under the Eyes?As we grow older, tissues around the eye gradually weaken and sag. This loss of skin tone allows fat to shift forward into the lower eyelids, making them look puffy and swollen. Fluid can also pool in this area and lead to edema (swelling) This can contribute to the puffy appearance. Shadows may also appear under the eyes. They may be cast by swollen, puffy eyelids due to aging. Other factors can contribute to under-eye bags, including:
While having bags or shadows under your eyes may give the appearance of fatigue, it is usually harmless. However, if swelling of the eye area is painful, itchy, red or does not go away, see your ophthalmologist. What Can You Do for Under-Eye Bags?Home remedies for under-eye bagsCertain home remedies can help lessen or eliminate the puffiness of under-eye bags due to edema and the appearance of shadows. Below are some tips:
Skin therapies for under-eye bagsThere are a number of skin treatments to reduce under-eye puffiness. These include laser resurfacing, chemical peels and fillers. These treatments are designed to tighten skin, improve its tone, and reduce the appearance of bags under the eyes. Talk with your ophthalmologist if you want to learn more about these treatment options. Eyelid surgery for under-eye bagsA type of eyelid surgery called blepharoplasty may help diminish bags under the eyes, depending on their cause. During this outpatient procedure, the eye surgeon creates an incision under the lashes or inside the lower lid. The surgeon removes or repositions excess fat through the incision and sometimes removes extra skin, then closes the incisions with tiny stitches. In addition to correcting bags under eyes, blepharoplasty can also repair baggy or puffy upper eyelids. Talk with your ophthalmologist about the benefits, risks and side effects of eyelid surgery for under-eye bag removal. Dark Circles vs. Shadows Under the EyesHave you ever looked in the mirror after a long, sleepless night and discovered dark circles under your eyes? Chances are you probably saw shadows cast by puffy eyelids. Or those dark areas may be hollows under your eyes that develop as a normal part of aging. Shadows are not the same thing as true under-eye dark circles. Here are some facts about dark circles under the eyes:
If you're concerned about the appearance of the skin under your eyes, see your ophthalmologist. They will be able to sort through the causes of the “bag or dark circle” and recommend the right treatment if needed. How do you get rid of dark circles and puffy eyes?Treatment. Apply a cold compress. A cold compress may reduce swelling and shrink dilated blood vessels to lessen the appearance of puffiness and dark circles. ... . Get extra sleep. ... . Elevate your head. ... . Stay hydrated. ... . Soak with tea bags. ... . Try eye creams. ... . Conceal with makeup.. What deficiency causes dark circles?Deficiencies in certain vitamins, such as vitamins B12, E, K and D, cause dark circles. Vitamin B12 is strongly associated with the production of red blood cells in the body. When B12 levels are low, you are more likely to have iron deficiency, which leads to dark circles.
What does puffy under eyes indicate?Bags under eyes are mild swelling or puffiness under the eyes. They're common as you age and the tissues around your eyes weaken, including some of the muscles supporting your eyelids. Fat that helps support the eyes can then move into the lower eyelids, causing them to appear puffy.
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