How to reduce tired eye bags


How to Get Rid of Bags Under Eyes: 17 Tips

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Healthline only shows you brands and products that we stand behind.

Our team thoroughly researches and evaluates the recommendations we make on our site. To establish that the product manufacturers addressed safety and efficacy standards, we:

  • Evaluate ingredients and composition: Do they have the potential to cause harm?
  • Fact-check all health claims: Do they align with the current body of scientific evidence?
  • Assess the brand: Does it operate with integrity and adhere to industry best practices?

We do the research so you can find trusted products for your health and wellness.

Read more about our vetting process.

Although many products claim to help de-puff and lighten the under-eye area, they don’t always work. The best way to get rid of eyebags long-term is to make certain lifestyle changes.

Drinking more water and applying a cold compress can help shrink eye bags quickly, but these are not long-term remedies. This is especially true if your eye bags and dark circles are genetically inherited.

Other common causes include:

  • allergies
  • eczema
  • chronic fatigue
  • pigmentation issues
  • sun exposure
  • aging

Keep reading to learn how to get rid of your under-eye bags for good.

Tea isn’t just for sipping. You can actually use caffeinated tea bags under your eyes to help with dark circles and bags.

The caffeine in the tea contains powerful antioxidants and may increase blood flow to your skin. It’s also said to protect against UV rays and potentially slow the aging process.

Green tea, in particular, has been touted by researchers for its potential anti-inflammatory effects, as shown in one studyTrusted Source.

To do this:

  1. Steep two tea bags for 3 to 5 minutes.
  2. Let the tea bags chill in the refrigerator for 20 minutes.
  3. Then, squeeze out the extra liquid and apply to your under-eye area.
  4. Leave the tea bags on for 15 to 30 minutes.

Shop a selection of green tea bags.

Toss out those pricey creams. Relief from dark circles may be as simple as using a cold compress you make using materials you already own. Applying cold to the area can help the blood vessels constrict quickly for some temporary relief.

Although you can purchase a cold compress at the store, do-it-yourself methods can work just as well.

Some DIY options include a:

  • chilled teaspoon
  • cool cucumber
  • wet washcloth
  • bag of frozen veggies

Before applying, wrap your compress with a soft cloth to protect your skin from getting too frosty. You only need to apply the compress for a few minutes to see results.

Some people swear that using a neti pot can help remove your under-eye bags and dark circles. A neti pot is a device you fill with a saltwater (normal saline) solution. You place the spout in your nose and irrigate your sinuses, removing mucus and other debris.

To do this:

  1. Fill your neti pot with a saltwater solution — 1/2 teaspoon of salt into 1 cup of water. Heat the water to dissolve, then cool to body temperature before use. Warm or lukewarm is best for comfort.
  2. Tilt your head sideways over the sink. Place the spout of the pot in the upper nostril, the one now closer to the ceiling.
  3. Breathe through your mouth as you gently pour the solution into the nostril. The solution should drain through the other nostril.
  4. Repeat this process with your head tilted the other way.
  5. Rinse your pot after use with filtered, distilled, or otherwise sterile water.
  6. Let the pot air dry before storing.

You can find inexpensive neti pots online. If you choose to try this method at home, be sure to use distilled or sterilized water to create your saltwater solution. You may also use boiled tap water that has cooled to a safe temperature.

Water makes up about 60 percent of your body weight. Given this, it may not be surprising that dehydration can contribute to under-eye bags. Upping your water intake should help.

How much is enough? Experts recommend drinking around 13 cups of fluids a day for men, and about 9 cups of fluids for women, per day.

Don’t like water? The good news is that all fluids count toward your daily total. Still, water is a low-calorie option. Try sparkling waters, flavored waters, or even water infused with fruit. Hot or cold herbal decaffeinated tea is another good choice.

Allergies can cause puffy, dark circles under your eyes. You may also experience redness or watery, itchy eyes. This reaction is caused by your immune system’s response to something that irritates it, or allergens.

If you feel your under-eye bags might be allergy related, ask your doctor about taking over-the-counter (OTC) allergy medications. Some brands include:

  • Benadryl
  • Zyrtec
  • Claritin

Purchase antihistamines online.

It’s also a good idea to avoid potential allergens whenever possible.

Certain personal care products, like soaps, makeup, or hair dyes, may be allergens. If you’re having trouble identifying the cause, consider keeping a diary to see what substances or other things cause the most reaction. If this is a chronic problem talk to your doctor about allergy testing.

You may have used creams in the past, but concentrating on specific ingredients is key. Retinol creams have been used for a variety of skin issues, including:

  • acne
  • psoriasis
  • aging
  • certain cancers

This ingredient is related to vitamin A and it comes in cream, gel, or liquid form.

How does retinol help with eye bags? When applied to the skin, this ingredient can improve collagen deficiency. You may find lower concentrations of retinol in different OTC products, but stronger creams require a prescription from your dermatologist.

Retinol is generally applied to skin once a day, about a half hour after washing your face. Don’t use retinol creams or take extra vitamin A if you’re pregnant.

Skin lightening creams contain an ingredient called hydroquinone. This ingredient interferes with the production of melanin in the skin. This can help reduce the appearance of dark bags or under-eye circles.

You can get hydroquinone by prescription from your dermatologist. You’ll need to use these products regularly to see lasting results.

It’s important to note that the positive effects of hydroquinone are reversed when skin is exposed to sunlight, so you should only apply at night. Some people also experience dryness, irritation, and other mild skin issues while using skin lightening products. Discontinue use if you have a reaction.

Protecting your skin against the sun’s rays can help with a number of dermatological issues, like:

  • premature aging
  • skin cancer
  • discoloration

As a result, wearing sunscreen may also help with your under-eye bags and dark circles.

The American Academy of Dermatology suggests that all people wear sunscreen. Broad-spectrum protection against UVA and UVB rays is important. So is choosing a formula that is SPF 30 or higher and water-resistant. Reapply as necessary or directed on the package instructions. Choose a daily face moisturizer that’s also SPF 30 or higher.

Here’s a selection of sunscreens with high SPF.

You can also avoid the sun’s harmful rays by:

  • sitting in the shade
  • wearing protective clothing
  • avoiding tanning beds

Microneedling is also known as collagen induction therapy. Proponents say it reduces wrinkles, scarring, and even pigment issues, like dark circles and under-eye bags.

The procedure involves fine needles that are used to puncture the skin. This creates a controlled injury of sorts that, in turn, rejuvenates the skin being treated.

This procedure isn’t for those who want instant gratification. It’s usually performed over the course of six sessions spaced a month or so apart. Microneedling costs less than more traditional laser procedures.

There are also some risks, though the recovery time is relatively fast. People may run into issues like:

  • bleeding
  • bruising
  • infection
  • scarring

Dermatologists don’t recommend the at-home kits as they’re less effective and there’s some danger of infection transmission. Don’t share needles with other people to prevent disease transmission. This approach isn’t a good choice for people who have a history of keloids or who easily scar.

Improving your nightly routine may also help you avoid bags under your eyes. In particular, it’s important to wash your face before bed each night.

There are several reasons why you shouldn’t sleep in makeup. First, if you sleep with mascara or other eye makeup on your eyes, you may:

  • irritate them
  • experience an allergic reaction
  • develop an infection that creates redness, puffiness, or other symptoms

Some say forgetting to wash your face may cause wrinkles or damage the skin in other ways. How exactly? When you sleep in makeup, you’re exposing your skin to free radicals. This has the potential to create what’s called oxidative stress, which may prematurely ageTrusted Source your skin.

Shop for eye makeup removers here.

Try elevating your head with extra pillows while you sleep. Using two or more pillows should do the trick. You may even consider purchasing a special wedge pillow. How does this work? Elevating your head helps to prevent the pooling of fluid in your lower eyelids that creates puffiness while you sleep.

If propping up your head hurts your neck or you can’t fall asleep, you may also consider elevating the entire top end of your bed by a few inches. You can use bricks under the bed posts or buy special bed risers that are specifically made for this purpose.

Beyond how you sleep, how much you sleep is also a factor. Although limited sleep may not actually cause under-eye circles, getting little sleep may make your complexion paler. Any shadows or dark circles you have may be more obvious as a result.

Most adults should aim to get between seven and eight hours of sleep each night.

According to Mayo Clinic, if you’re having trouble settling down to rest, try these tricks:

  • Try creating a sleep schedule, or a regular bedtime and wake-time.
  • Avoid caffeinated beverages and foods 6 to 12 hours before your bedtime.
  • Avoid alcoholic beverages around bedtime.
  • Finish all meals and snacks two hours before bedtime.
  • Finish all strenuous exercise a few hours before bedtime.
  • Turn off televisions, cell phones, and other electronic devices one hour before bedtime.

As you get older, the muscles and tissues that support your eyelids weaken. This means that your skin may begin to sag, including the fat that’s usually around your eyes.

Upping your intake of vitamin C can help your body absorb more hyaluronic acid. This essential acid is naturally found in the body, but the amount stored decreases with age.

Foods rich in vitamin C and amino acids can also help with collagen production through boosting your levels of hyaluronic acid, creating healthier skin.

Good sources of vitamin C include:

  • oranges
  • red peppers
  • kale
  • Brussels sprouts
  • broccoli
  • strawberries

Iron deficiency anemia is a condition where the blood is lacking red blood cells. These cells are responsible for carrying oxygen to tissues in the body. Iron deficiency can cause dark circles under the eyes and even pale skin. Other symptoms include things like:

  • extreme fatigue
  • cold hands and feet
  • brittle nails

If you suspect you may be anemic, it’s a good idea to visit your doctor. Your doctor will check this with a simple blood test. You may need special iron supplements to get back on track. For mild cases, increasing your dietary intake of iron may help.

Iron-rich foods include:

  • red meat, pork, and poultry
  • seafood
  • beans
  • leafy green veggies, like kale and spinach
  • raisins, apricots, and other dried fruits
  • iron-fortified foods, like cereals, breads, and pastas
  • peas

Eating too many salty foods may be at the root of your under-eye bags. Salt contributes to your body’s fluid retention and can make you puffy overall. It may also lead to other health issues, like heart disease and stroke.

The American Heart Association recommends consuming 2,300 milligrams (mg) or less of salt each day. Ideally, adults should consume no more than 1,500 mg of salt each day.

As a guide, here’s how many milligrams are in different teaspoon (tsp) measurements of salt:

  • 1/4 tsp = 575 mg sodium
  • 1/2 tsp= 1,150 mg sodium
  • 3/4 tsp = 1,725 mg sodium
  • 1 tsp = 2,300 mg sodium

Read packages carefully to see how much salt is in your favorite snacks. One way to immediately lower the salt in your diet is to avoid eating packaged, processed foods. Instead, try eating a diet based more on whole foods — fresh fruits and veggies — where you can control the salt content.

You may consider also cutting back on alcohol to see relief. Why does this work? It’s a similar idea to drinking more water. Drinking alcohol contributes to dehydration, and dehydration may lead to bags and dark circles under your eyes.

If you’re craving a special drink, try grabbing a flavored sparkling water or infusing regular water with fruit.

Smoking depletes your body’s stores of vitamin C, which is the vitamin responsible for creating healthy collagen in your skin. If you smoke, you may deal with issues like wrinkles, discoloration, and even under-eye bags and dark circles.

Quitting smoking also helps with a host of other health issues. You can add years to your life, get rid of stained teeth, and reduce your chances of developing diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and certain cancers.

You may experience nicotine withdrawal symptoms in the first couple weeks after quitting cold turkey. These symptoms should fade within 10 to 14 days.

For support in quitting smoking, visit Smokefree.gov.

Many causes of swelling and discoloration under the eyes aren’t serious and may respond well to at-home treatment. That said, if you notice these symptoms under just one eye or if they get worse over time, it’s a good idea to visit your doctor.

Some cases of under-eye bags may be the result of an infection or other medical issue that needs special attention.

You should also see your doctor if your swelling is:

  • severe and long-lasting
  • joined by redness, pain, or itching
  • affecting other parts of your body, like your legs

Your doctor may offer some long-term solutions, like prescription creams or other treatments that work to reduce swelling and discoloration. Options include:

  • laser therapy
  • chemical peels
  • injectable fillers to treat puffy eyelids

These treatments may need to be repeated for the best results.

Read this article in Spanish

How to Get Rid of Bags Under Eyes: 17 Tips

We include products we think are useful for our readers. If you buy through links on this page, we may earn a small commission Here’s our process.

Healthline only shows you brands and products that we stand behind.

Our team thoroughly researches and evaluates the recommendations we make on our site. To establish that the product manufacturers addressed safety and efficacy standards, we:

  • Evaluate ingredients and composition: Do they have the potential to cause harm?
  • Fact-check all health claims: Do they align with the current body of scientific evidence?
  • Assess the brand: Does it operate with integrity and adhere to industry best practices?

We do the research so you can find trusted products for your health and wellness.

Read more about our vetting process.

Although many products claim to help de-puff and lighten the under-eye area, they don’t always work. The best way to get rid of eyebags long-term is to make certain lifestyle changes.

Drinking more water and applying a cold compress can help shrink eye bags quickly, but these are not long-term remedies. This is especially true if your eye bags and dark circles are genetically inherited.

Other common causes include:

  • allergies
  • eczema
  • chronic fatigue
  • pigmentation issues
  • sun exposure
  • aging

Keep reading to learn how to get rid of your under-eye bags for good.

Tea isn’t just for sipping. You can actually use caffeinated tea bags under your eyes to help with dark circles and bags.

The caffeine in the tea contains powerful antioxidants and may increase blood flow to your skin. It’s also said to protect against UV rays and potentially slow the aging process.

Green tea, in particular, has been touted by researchers for its potential anti-inflammatory effects, as shown in one studyTrusted Source.

To do this:

  1. Steep two tea bags for 3 to 5 minutes.
  2. Let the tea bags chill in the refrigerator for 20 minutes.
  3. Then, squeeze out the extra liquid and apply to your under-eye area.
  4. Leave the tea bags on for 15 to 30 minutes.

Shop a selection of green tea bags.

Toss out those pricey creams. Relief from dark circles may be as simple as using a cold compress you make using materials you already own. Applying cold to the area can help the blood vessels constrict quickly for some temporary relief.

Although you can purchase a cold compress at the store, do-it-yourself methods can work just as well.

Some DIY options include a:

  • chilled teaspoon
  • cool cucumber
  • wet washcloth
  • bag of frozen veggies

Before applying, wrap your compress with a soft cloth to protect your skin from getting too frosty. You only need to apply the compress for a few minutes to see results.

Some people swear that using a neti pot can help remove your under-eye bags and dark circles. A neti pot is a device you fill with a saltwater (normal saline) solution. You place the spout in your nose and irrigate your sinuses, removing mucus and other debris.

To do this:

  1. Fill your neti pot with a saltwater solution — 1/2 teaspoon of salt into 1 cup of water. Heat the water to dissolve, then cool to body temperature before use. Warm or lukewarm is best for comfort.
  2. Tilt your head sideways over the sink. Place the spout of the pot in the upper nostril, the one now closer to the ceiling.
  3. Breathe through your mouth as you gently pour the solution into the nostril. The solution should drain through the other nostril.
  4. Repeat this process with your head tilted the other way.
  5. Rinse your pot after use with filtered, distilled, or otherwise sterile water.
  6. Let the pot air dry before storing.

You can find inexpensive neti pots online. If you choose to try this method at home, be sure to use distilled or sterilized water to create your saltwater solution. You may also use boiled tap water that has cooled to a safe temperature.

Water makes up about 60 percent of your body weight. Given this, it may not be surprising that dehydration can contribute to under-eye bags. Upping your water intake should help.

How much is enough? Experts recommend drinking around 13 cups of fluids a day for men, and about 9 cups of fluids for women, per day.

Don’t like water? The good news is that all fluids count toward your daily total. Still, water is a low-calorie option. Try sparkling waters, flavored waters, or even water infused with fruit. Hot or cold herbal decaffeinated tea is another good choice.

Allergies can cause puffy, dark circles under your eyes. You may also experience redness or watery, itchy eyes. This reaction is caused by your immune system’s response to something that irritates it, or allergens.

If you feel your under-eye bags might be allergy related, ask your doctor about taking over-the-counter (OTC) allergy medications. Some brands include:

  • Benadryl
  • Zyrtec
  • Claritin

Purchase antihistamines online.

It’s also a good idea to avoid potential allergens whenever possible.

Certain personal care products, like soaps, makeup, or hair dyes, may be allergens. If you’re having trouble identifying the cause, consider keeping a diary to see what substances or other things cause the most reaction. If this is a chronic problem talk to your doctor about allergy testing.

You may have used creams in the past, but concentrating on specific ingredients is key. Retinol creams have been used for a variety of skin issues, including:

  • acne
  • psoriasis
  • aging
  • certain cancers

This ingredient is related to vitamin A and it comes in cream, gel, or liquid form.

How does retinol help with eye bags? When applied to the skin, this ingredient can improve collagen deficiency. You may find lower concentrations of retinol in different OTC products, but stronger creams require a prescription from your dermatologist.

Retinol is generally applied to skin once a day, about a half hour after washing your face. Don’t use retinol creams or take extra vitamin A if you’re pregnant.

Skin lightening creams contain an ingredient called hydroquinone. This ingredient interferes with the production of melanin in the skin. This can help reduce the appearance of dark bags or under-eye circles.

You can get hydroquinone by prescription from your dermatologist. You’ll need to use these products regularly to see lasting results.

It’s important to note that the positive effects of hydroquinone are reversed when skin is exposed to sunlight, so you should only apply at night. Some people also experience dryness, irritation, and other mild skin issues while using skin lightening products. Discontinue use if you have a reaction.

Protecting your skin against the sun’s rays can help with a number of dermatological issues, like:

  • premature aging
  • skin cancer
  • discoloration

As a result, wearing sunscreen may also help with your under-eye bags and dark circles.

The American Academy of Dermatology suggests that all people wear sunscreen. Broad-spectrum protection against UVA and UVB rays is important. So is choosing a formula that is SPF 30 or higher and water-resistant. Reapply as necessary or directed on the package instructions. Choose a daily face moisturizer that’s also SPF 30 or higher.

Here’s a selection of sunscreens with high SPF.

You can also avoid the sun’s harmful rays by:

  • sitting in the shade
  • wearing protective clothing
  • avoiding tanning beds

Microneedling is also known as collagen induction therapy. Proponents say it reduces wrinkles, scarring, and even pigment issues, like dark circles and under-eye bags.

The procedure involves fine needles that are used to puncture the skin. This creates a controlled injury of sorts that, in turn, rejuvenates the skin being treated.

This procedure isn’t for those who want instant gratification. It’s usually performed over the course of six sessions spaced a month or so apart. Microneedling costs less than more traditional laser procedures.

There are also some risks, though the recovery time is relatively fast. People may run into issues like:

  • bleeding
  • bruising
  • infection
  • scarring

Dermatologists don’t recommend the at-home kits as they’re less effective and there’s some danger of infection transmission. Don’t share needles with other people to prevent disease transmission. This approach isn’t a good choice for people who have a history of keloids or who easily scar.

Improving your nightly routine may also help you avoid bags under your eyes. In particular, it’s important to wash your face before bed each night.

There are several reasons why you shouldn’t sleep in makeup. First, if you sleep with mascara or other eye makeup on your eyes, you may:

  • irritate them
  • experience an allergic reaction
  • develop an infection that creates redness, puffiness, or other symptoms

Some say forgetting to wash your face may cause wrinkles or damage the skin in other ways. How exactly? When you sleep in makeup, you’re exposing your skin to free radicals. This has the potential to create what’s called oxidative stress, which may prematurely ageTrusted Source your skin.

Shop for eye makeup removers here.

Try elevating your head with extra pillows while you sleep. Using two or more pillows should do the trick. You may even consider purchasing a special wedge pillow. How does this work? Elevating your head helps to prevent the pooling of fluid in your lower eyelids that creates puffiness while you sleep.

If propping up your head hurts your neck or you can’t fall asleep, you may also consider elevating the entire top end of your bed by a few inches. You can use bricks under the bed posts or buy special bed risers that are specifically made for this purpose.

Beyond how you sleep, how much you sleep is also a factor. Although limited sleep may not actually cause under-eye circles, getting little sleep may make your complexion paler. Any shadows or dark circles you have may be more obvious as a result.

Most adults should aim to get between seven and eight hours of sleep each night.

According to Mayo Clinic, if you’re having trouble settling down to rest, try these tricks:

  • Try creating a sleep schedule, or a regular bedtime and wake-time.
  • Avoid caffeinated beverages and foods 6 to 12 hours before your bedtime.
  • Avoid alcoholic beverages around bedtime.
  • Finish all meals and snacks two hours before bedtime.
  • Finish all strenuous exercise a few hours before bedtime.
  • Turn off televisions, cell phones, and other electronic devices one hour before bedtime.

As you get older, the muscles and tissues that support your eyelids weaken. This means that your skin may begin to sag, including the fat that’s usually around your eyes.

Upping your intake of vitamin C can help your body absorb more hyaluronic acid. This essential acid is naturally found in the body, but the amount stored decreases with age.

Foods rich in vitamin C and amino acids can also help with collagen production through boosting your levels of hyaluronic acid, creating healthier skin.

Good sources of vitamin C include:

  • oranges
  • red peppers
  • kale
  • Brussels sprouts
  • broccoli
  • strawberries

Iron deficiency anemia is a condition where the blood is lacking red blood cells. These cells are responsible for carrying oxygen to tissues in the body. Iron deficiency can cause dark circles under the eyes and even pale skin. Other symptoms include things like:

  • extreme fatigue
  • cold hands and feet
  • brittle nails

If you suspect you may be anemic, it’s a good idea to visit your doctor. Your doctor will check this with a simple blood test. You may need special iron supplements to get back on track. For mild cases, increasing your dietary intake of iron may help.

Iron-rich foods include:

  • red meat, pork, and poultry
  • seafood
  • beans
  • leafy green veggies, like kale and spinach
  • raisins, apricots, and other dried fruits
  • iron-fortified foods, like cereals, breads, and pastas
  • peas

Eating too many salty foods may be at the root of your under-eye bags. Salt contributes to your body’s fluid retention and can make you puffy overall. It may also lead to other health issues, like heart disease and stroke.

The American Heart Association recommends consuming 2,300 milligrams (mg) or less of salt each day. Ideally, adults should consume no more than 1,500 mg of salt each day.

As a guide, here’s how many milligrams are in different teaspoon (tsp) measurements of salt:

  • 1/4 tsp = 575 mg sodium
  • 1/2 tsp= 1,150 mg sodium
  • 3/4 tsp = 1,725 mg sodium
  • 1 tsp = 2,300 mg sodium

Read packages carefully to see how much salt is in your favorite snacks. One way to immediately lower the salt in your diet is to avoid eating packaged, processed foods. Instead, try eating a diet based more on whole foods — fresh fruits and veggies — where you can control the salt content.

You may consider also cutting back on alcohol to see relief. Why does this work? It’s a similar idea to drinking more water. Drinking alcohol contributes to dehydration, and dehydration may lead to bags and dark circles under your eyes.

If you’re craving a special drink, try grabbing a flavored sparkling water or infusing regular water with fruit.

Smoking depletes your body’s stores of vitamin C, which is the vitamin responsible for creating healthy collagen in your skin. If you smoke, you may deal with issues like wrinkles, discoloration, and even under-eye bags and dark circles.

Quitting smoking also helps with a host of other health issues. You can add years to your life, get rid of stained teeth, and reduce your chances of developing diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and certain cancers.

You may experience nicotine withdrawal symptoms in the first couple weeks after quitting cold turkey. These symptoms should fade within 10 to 14 days.

For support in quitting smoking, visit Smokefree.gov.

Many causes of swelling and discoloration under the eyes aren’t serious and may respond well to at-home treatment. That said, if you notice these symptoms under just one eye or if they get worse over time, it’s a good idea to visit your doctor.

Some cases of under-eye bags may be the result of an infection or other medical issue that needs special attention.

You should also see your doctor if your swelling is:

  • severe and long-lasting
  • joined by redness, pain, or itching
  • affecting other parts of your body, like your legs

Your doctor may offer some long-term solutions, like prescription creams or other treatments that work to reduce swelling and discoloration. Options include:

  • laser therapy
  • chemical peels
  • injectable fillers to treat puffy eyelids

These treatments may need to be repeated for the best results.

Read this article in Spanish

How to remove bags under the eyes: 10 effective ways

March 13, 2022 Likbez Health

You can restore the fresh look of the skin under the eyes in just five minutes.

How to get rid of bags under the eyes quickly

These methods will relieve you of puffiness almost instantly, but the effect will not last long - at best, a few hours. Use them if you need to quickly regain a fresh look.

1. Apply a cold compress

Bags under the eyes are most often swellings that are especially evident under the thinnest skin around the eyes. Cold constricts blood vessels and helps relieve swelling.

Soak a cotton pad or soft cloth in cool water and place the compress under your eyes for 3-5 minutes. Another option is metal spoons: cool them under a stream of cold water, blot with a napkin and apply the convex side to the skin under the eyes. Hold until warm to body temperature. If the effect seems insufficient, repeat.

Chilled slices of fresh cucumber or potato wedges can also be used as a cold compress.

2. Put wet tea bags under your eyes

Tea - both black and green - contains caffeine, which, penetrating under the skin, improves blood circulation and helps to quickly get rid of excess fluid.

How to use tea bags:

  • Brew two tea bags. Soak them in boiling water for 3-5 minutes.
  • Let them cool in the refrigerator for 20 minutes.
  • Squeeze out excess liquid and place wet packs under the eyes for 15-30 minutes.

An alternative to tea is used natural coffee. Gently apply the waste from the Turk or coffee machine under the eyes. Do not rub, so as not to injure the skin. Leave on for 15-30 minutes, then rinse with warm water and apply moisturizer.

3. Try an over-the-counter hemorrhoid cream

Sounds a bit odd, but that's exactly what experts at Johns Hopkins School of Medicine are giving. Hemorrhoids contain ingredients that constrict blood vessels, and this helps reduce swelling.

However, the cream should be used with caution: it can cause irritation. If you notice burning or redness, immediately remove the product with napkins, and then wash with warm water and soap.

4. Use cosmetics

For example, ready-made patches under the eyes: they effectively tighten the skin and reduce puffiness. Keep them in the refrigerator, then they will also play the role of a cold compress.

Under-eye bags can be masked with light concealers or foundation. Apply these funds not to the edema itself, but to its borders.

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How to get rid of bags under the eyes forever

Lifestyle changes take longer, but they are more effective. Here are recommendations from experts from the American Academy of Ophthalmology.

1. Make sure you get enough sleep

The average adult sleep rate is 7-9 hours a day. If you sleep too little, bags under your eyes are almost inevitable.

2. Sleep with your head up

This will keep fluid from building up under your eyes. Choose a pillow to sleep higher or raise the head of the bed by 3-5 cm - for example, by placing a plank or a couple of books under the legs.

Try not to fall asleep on your stomach face down: this position will cause fluid to flow to the eyes and subsequent puffiness.

3. Do not eat salty for dinner

On the one hand, salt provokes thirst. On the other hand, it inhibits the excretion of fluid from the body. This means that the risk of finding bags under the eyes in the morning increases.

4. Try to get rid of bad habits

Smoking and alcohol abuse are common causes of swelling. In addition, these bad habits cause the body to lose collagen faster. This means that the delicate skin under the eyes becomes even thinner, and swelling and dark circles become more noticeable.

5. Avoid potential allergens

Puffiness is a common symptom of seasonal allergies. If you suspect that bags under the eyes may have appeared due to a reaction to the pollen of a plant, consult a therapist. Perhaps the issue will be resolved with a recommendation to take an antihistamine and a referral to an allergist.

6. Feel free to contact a beautician

Permanent puffiness under the eyes is common in older people.

Sean Desai

MD, Plastic Surgeon.

The tissues and muscles around the eyes weaken with age. Because of this, the fat that supports the eyes can sink down and bulge.

It's safe, but unaesthetic. Unfortunately, home methods in this case are unlikely to help. To get rid of permanent bags under the eyes, it makes sense to consult a cosmetologist. Depending on how severe the puffiness is, your doctor will suggest treatment options.

It's not necessarily about surgery. You can reduce fat deposits under the eyes with the help of injections, and laser resurfacing or chemical peels will help to make the bags less pronounced. The effect after such procedures will last up to several years.

If you want to get rid of bags under your eyes forever, pay attention to blepharoplasty. This is a surgical eyelid lift, during which the specialist will remove excess fat and tighten the muscles and skin, giving the skin a smooth and youthful appearance.

This article was first published in March 2017. In April 2020, we updated the text.

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How to get rid of bags under the eyes at home quickly: an effective way

Before you start looking for concealer to mask puffiness under the eyes, read our tips

© fotoimedia/imaxtree

Contents

  • Tea bags
  • Ice cubes
  • Tablespoons
  • Special tools
  • Patches
  • Decoctions
  • Massage
  • Corrector
  • Professional cosmetology

Bags under the eyes can be covered with concealer. But we will tell you how to get rid of them for a long time. Let's talk about the most popular methods.

Many people wonder how to remove puffiness under the eyes. Bruises and puffiness make the look tired, add age, and simply do not paint anyone. Someone suffers from them all his life, for others they become the result of age-related changes, as a rule, after 50 years. The point may be in the structure of the face, veins located too close to the skin, the skin itself - for example, if it is too thin in this area. Most often, the circles appear blue, but some may be disturbed by a red skin tone - for example, due to long work at the computer or an allergic reaction.

© Makeup.ru

In this article we will figure out how to deal with bags under the eyes at home and in the beautician's office. But first, let's find out what can provoke the appearance of dark circles.

  1. 1

    Heredity

    In some people, bruises under the eyes do not go away even after many hours of sleep and proper care. Perhaps the reason is in the genes. Thin skin, a predisposition to rosacea and allergic reactions are inherited and can be the cause of dark circles.

  2. 2

    Bad mode

    If you regularly lack sleep, do not drink enough water or do not eat properly, the lymph stagnates, the blood circulates worse. As a result, the tone becomes dull, and skin tone decreases.

    © Makeup.ru

  3. 3

    Age

    The skin of the eyelids is already much thinner than in other areas. And with age, it becomes even less dense, elastic and elastic. The subcutaneous fat becomes thinner - the area under the eyes becomes even darker, and the look seems tired.

  4. 4

    Body problems

    Sometimes dark circles are a reason to think. Especially if the problem appeared suddenly, but did not bother you before. Perhaps this is how the body tries to let you know about problems with the heart, liver, endocrine system, or other health problems.

    © Makeup.ru

  5. 5

    Allergy or active computer work

    If the reason is an allergic reaction or many hours of work at the computer, this will most likely be clear from the color of the area under the eyes. It will not be blue, but with a reddish tint. Why? Everything is simple. Because of the clock in front of the monitor, blood rushes to this area of ​​\u200b\u200bthe skin. And upon contact with the allergen, histamine is released into the blood, which can also provoke redness.

We have looked at possible causes. It's time to learn how to get rid of this problem.

Tea bags

Using tea bags to get rid of bags under the eyes is a proven method that really works. In order for this to help, you need to follow the recipe.

© IStock

First, brew tea and let it steep. Next, remove the tea bags from the cup, put them on a saucer and wait until they cool slightly. Take the bags, put them over your eyes and lie down on the bed. Lie down for 15-20 minutes without opening your eyes, without straining your eyelids, and without removing the bags. Tea will not only help to get rid of swelling, but also saturate the delicate skin around the eyes with antioxidants that prevent the signs of aging.

How else to remove bags under the eyes? Now we'll find out.

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Ice cubes

Ice cubes must be prepared in advance. Fill special molds with water (preferably thermal) and put in the freezer overnight. Beauty experts recommend wiping the face with cubes every day and call it cryomassage. They are also useful in a situation where you need to quickly get rid of bags under the eyes. You can freeze water, for example, with chamomile.

© Getty

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Tablespoons

Another effective way to remove bags under the eyes is to apply a tablespoon to puffiness. First, keep the spoons in the refrigerator for about ten minutes, and then apply to your eyes. There will be no trace of the bags.

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Special products

You can (and even need to) remove bags under your eyes with the help of creams created specifically to deal with this problem. Creams, unlike the folk remedies described above, not only neutralize the bags, but also help get rid of them in the future. This is due to the formulas, which include caring ingredients. This is exactly what, for example, the Re-Plasty Age Recovery Eye Strap from Helena Rubinstein has.

We also recommend that you look into Kiehl's Avocado Eye Cream. It is enriched with beta-carotene, avocado and shea butters.

We also recommend trying L'Oréal Paris Anti-Aging Eye Cream.

And more Hyalu B5 by La Roche-Posay , and Vichy's LiftActiv Supreme.

Also pay attention to products with retinol in the composition. It enhances collagen production and smoothes the skin. But keep in mind that the result can become noticeable only after a few months. Just because you don't see changes doesn't mean there aren't any. The effect is often cumulative.

Caffeine is another ingredient that is effective against dark circles. It perfectly tones and helps to remove excess fluid from the body.

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Patches

Eye patches are a proven tool in the fight against bruises. They not only refresh the skin tone, but also smooth and moisturize the skin and prepare it for the application of other products, such as concealer. So pay attention, for example, to the patches "Moisturizing + fresh look" from Garnier.

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Decoctions

What else can you do if you are worried about permanent bags under your eyes? Decoctions of some types of herbs lighten the skin well in just 5 minutes. Try, for example, brew parsley root, let it brew. And then freeze the decoction and use it for compresses in the morning: apply to the eyelids for a few minutes and enjoy the effect.

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Massage

Lymphatic drainage massage is another way to relieve puffiness under the eyes. It can be done by hand. In addition, many products for the area around the eyes are sold with a special massage applicator - pay attention to them when you choose a new cream. Bags under the eyes can appear due to the fact that the subcutaneous fat "bulges out" due to swelling or other reasons. If the cause is fluid accumulation, then such bags are especially noticeable after sleep. And massage will help to remove excess water.

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Concealer

Concealers and concealers help in a matter of seconds to give the skin a flawless look - hide dark circles under the eyes and redness, make the skin tone even.

© Makeup.ru

Of course, the corrector will not be able to permanently remove bags under the eyes, but it will effectively mask the problem if there is an important meeting ahead and you haven't had enough sleep. Take our quiz and find out which best-selling concealer is perfect for you.

Take the test

L'Oréal Paris Infaillible is praised by many.

Find out what our readers think of this product here.

You will find some more useful life hacks to help disguise circles under the eyes in this video.

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Professional Cosmetology

If simpler methods did not help, it may be worth seeking help from professional cosmetologists.

Fillers

Fillers are a thick gel that is injected into the problem area to fill in gaps, improve skin tone and even out the relief, removing wrinkles.


Learn more