Puffy Eyes and Eye Bags: Causes and Treatments
Puffiness and unsightly bags developing under the eyes are not what makes a face look young, vibrant, and fresh. These features age us and make us look worn out. Thes facial features are very common and for some individuals almost chronic. So how exactly is behind this unattractive facial phenomenon?
There are many considerations which cause the cosmetic concern and for the most part, they aren't indicative of an underlying medical condition. In general, there are some easy do-it-yourself options, including picking up one of the best drugstore eye creams, that you have to help remedy tired — and aged-looking eyes.
What Are The Symptoms Of Puffy Eyes and Eye Bags?
If you have experienced undereye bags, and most of us have, you know what they look like. For those who aren't sure, they are characterized by:
- Mild Swelling of the skin
- Saggy, loose skin near the eye area
- Darkened skin or circles
With age, the elasticity in our skin decreases as well as the strength of our musculature. This happens all throughout the body, including around the eyes. The delicate tissues around the eyes begin to weaken and the muscles that support the area also weaken. Fat deposits that are normally positioned in the upper eyes which support tautness may travel to the lower eyelids. This is how that puffy appearance occurs. Added to this is fluid retention which accumulates in that lower eye area which makes your eyes look swollen.
These natural phenomena alone aren't a reason to see a doctor. If you have painful, persistent, itchiness, that is another story and it is advised to have a doctor take a look. Otherwise, it is fairly normal and all of us at some point will experience these issues especially as we get older. In addition to the natural process which starts whether we like it or not, there are other factors that can add to bags under the eyes. These include:
- Taking in too much sodium which causes excess fluid retention-think about eating a very salty meal
- Poor sleep routine, and excess fatigue due to inadequate rest
- Seasonal or environmental allergies which trigger histamines-central to the allergic reaction process- that cause inflammation
- Smoking
- Heredity, puffy eyes can be passed down in your family
How To Improve Puffy Eyes And Bags With Lifestyle Changes
- Quit Smoking
- Get quality rest, the National Sleep Foundation indicates that those in the age range of 26 to 64 years-of-age should have 7 to 9 hours. Those that are older, 65+ should aim for 7-8 hours of sleep
- Makeup, like concealer, can help reduce the look of dark circles and under-eye bags
- Identify any products you use that may cause an allergic reaction, reduce allergens in your environment, and use over-the-counter allergy medications to help combat swelling
- Cool compresses applied directly to the eyes minimizes swelling and helps calm inflammation, such as wet washcloths or cucumber slices
- Decrease sodium intake in your foods and diet as well as cut back on drinking fluids before bedtime
- Sleeping on an incline with your head raised will help reduce the accumulation of fluid in the face. You can pile up pillows or if you have a mattress that can be modified for angels this can all help
What Types Of Over-The-Counter (OTC) Remedies Help Puffy Eyes
Like makeup, which acts as a way to provide coverage to dark circles and bags, there are gels, eye creams, and topicals which are formulated to also aid the skin in a more smooth and youthful appearance. Hyaluronic acid is often used in cosmetic topicals and it can come in OTC forms or in stronger concentrations that are available by prescription.
Hyaluronic acid is a natural lubricant that is found in all living things and can be used for so many helpful purposes. It is often used for anti-aging treatments. As a natural part of our connective tissues, Hyaluronic acid attracts moisture and has the ability to retain it which helps provide a youthful, plumped look to the skin.
Retinol, on the other hand, works best to promote cell generation and turnover which keeps fresh skin at the forefront. Retinol is also key to collagen synthesis which is directly related to keeping skin from sagging. When retinol is combined with ingredients that complement its active effects it can help immensely with the look of bags under the eyes. Caffeine, for instance, works very well when used in combination with retinol. It constricts the blood vessels in the skin which damps down puffiness and also decreases the dark appearance of skin. Vitamin C is another great addition, and as a natural anti-oxidant, it brightens which helps with dark circles. Additionally, Vitamin C can also help with the firming component with skin which is especially necessary as we age.
Resources— Bags Under Eyes, All About Vision, The development of allergic inflammation
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