Eye bags, also known as under-eye bags or puffiness, are swollen or puffy areas beneath the eyes that create a tired or aged appearance.
Eye bags are often accompanied by dark circles and fine lines.
Natural ageing weakens the muscles and tissues around the eyes, while hereditary factors can make some people more prone to eye bags.
Fluid retention from salt intake or sleeping position, lack of sleep, smoking, and alcohol can also contribute.
Allergies, sun damage, hormonal changes, and certain medical conditions may worsen puffiness under the eyes.
The most common area affected, where puffiness and bags are usually most visible.
Inner eye corners and the outer eye area, including the crow’s feet region, can also show signs of puffiness.
In some cases, the upper eyelids, tear trough, and orbital rim region may be affected, contributing to a tired appearance.
Eye bags can affect everyone at any age but become increasingly common with advancing age, particularly after 40.
They are more prevalent in people with a family history of eye bags, those with allergies, individuals who consume high amounts of sodium, and people with irregular sleep patterns. Certain ethnicities may be more genetically predisposed to developing eye bags, and women may notice changes during hormonal fluctuations.
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Whilst genetic eye bags cannot be completely prevented, you can minimise their appearance by getting adequate sleep, reducing salt intake, sleeping with your head elevated, using sunscreen, and managing allergies effectively.
Eye creams containing ingredients like hyaluronic acid may offer temporary improvements in puffiness and skin texture. However, results can vary and are generally modest, especially for more structural eye bags.
It is usually recommended that you see a healthcare professional if eye bags appear suddenly, are accompanied by pain, vision changes, or severe swelling, or if they significantly impact your quality of life.
Treatment depends on your condition and goals, but options usually include chemical peels, dermal fillers for tear troughs, and microneedling, although results vary depending on the underlying cause.
Morning puffiness often results from fluid retention during sleep, lying flat for extended periods, consuming salty foods before bed, or insufficient sleep. This type usually improves as the day progresses.
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