If you are tired of the puffy eyes that greet you in the mirror and are asking yourself how to get rid of eye bags, multiple options exist. First, let’s explore what causes bagginess under eyes – and ways to treat them at home or with the help of a professional.
Contact us today to learn more about our how to permanently or temporarily get rid of eye bags in Houston, TX, or schedule a free consultation today!
What Are Bags under Eyes and What Causes Them?
Bags under the eyes often form as the result of excess fluid and thin, sagging skin. The skin under the eyes loses its elasticity due to lower collagen levels with age – which is a recipe for saggy skin under the eyes, or eye bags. Lack of sleep, poor diet, stress, allergies, and genetics are all other factors that also can contribute to eye bags.
How to Get Rid of Eye Bags at Home?
If you only have puffy eyes on occasion, you may find a quick fix with an at-home remedy. Several treatments are available, all using items you probably have around the house. Just remember that these are only temporary fixes and won’t repair the underlying problem if eye bags are an ongoing problem. Here are four simple solutions for eye bags that are a good first step.
1. Apply Tea Bags
Wondering how to get rid of eye bags in minutes? Dip a tea bag in water and then refrigerate for ten minutes. Once cool, place the chilled tea bags on your eyes for around 20 minutes, then wash the area with plain water. You should notice an improvement immediately. Bags from caffeinated tea may work better because the caffeine will increase the blood flow and tighten the blood vessels, which decreases puffiness.
2. Try Cold Compresses
Another option for how to get rid of bags under eyes instantly is with a cold compress. Place a cool washcloth on your eyes for about ten minutes. The cold of the cloth can drain the extra fluid from your eyes, making you look well-rested in just a few minutes.
3. Use a Neti Pot
Allergies can cause puffy eyes because of congestion and inflammation. A neti-pot can help clear out the sinuses and alleviate allergy issues, which may also decrease the puffiness under the eyes.
4. Use the Right Products for Puffy Eyes
You’ll find a lot of products on the market that claim to reduce bags under the eyes. Look at the ingredients for the most effective products, such as cucumber, chamomile, and arnica. All these ingredients are known for reducing inflammation and tightening the skin.
Mild retinols can promote the stimulation of collagen while tetrapeptide-5 and heparin sulfate may help reduce puffiness. Caffeine products are also beneficial for getting rid of puffy eyes. Remember to be careful while applying any products close to the eyes.
Under Eye Professional Treatment
If over-the-counter methods or home remedies don’t work, you may need to seek professional treatment for your under-eye bags. A doctor can recommend several options that range from minimally invasive to more invasive.
Medications
The least invasive and simplest method of treating bags under the eyes is with an eye cream. These products often contain caffeine to stimulate blood vessel constriction, which reduces the puffiness. The results are temporary and must be repeated each time you notice puffy eyes. There are over-the-counter options or a doctor can recommend and prescribe one to address your particular needs.
Therapies
A doctor may recommend several therapies or treatments to reduce the appearance of puffy eyes.
Facial fillers are one useful treatment for eye bags. The filler is injected into the puffy area to smooth it out and get rid of bags. This type of treatment can last for up to a year. One of the most common products used isJuvederm®, which works well in the eye area.
Laser resurfacing is another treatment you can try for your under-eye bags. The laser removes the surface layer of skin, which stimulates new collagen growth and firmer skin.
Surgery
A blepharoplasty or lower eyelid lift is a surgical procedure that removes fat from under the eye and tightens the skin. The result is a smoother appearance permanently for an overall more youthful look with no bags.
Further Recommendations of Eye Bag Reduction
Your lifestyle choices can play a big part in whether you develop bags under your eyes. These preventative actions can minimize eye bags so you look more refreshed every day.
Stay Hydrated
Puffy eyes can occur if you get dehydrated. Prevent this problem by drinking enough water to keep your skin looking healthy. For most people, this means at least 64 oz of water a day, or eight glasses.
Improve Your Diet
You can improve your diet in several ways to help prevent bags under the eyes. For instance, reducing your salt intake can help prevent fluid retention. Eating foods high in potassium can also help remove excess fluid from your body, including under your eyes, so consider adding potassium-rich fruits and veggies to your meal planning.
Avoid Alcohol
Alcohol can make you more dehydrated, which can lead to puffy eyes. Instead of alcohol, drink water. If you do have a drink, make sure you increase your water intake to counteract the effects of the alcohol.
Stay Calm and Get Rest
When you don’t get enough sleep, your eyes will often appear puffy with dark bags underneath. The antidote is to get plenty or rest – but keep in mind, rest means more than just going to sleep. Deep, restful sleep is key. Stop drinking alcohol or caffeine close to bed and shut off electronics. Eat dinner and exercise a few hours before bedtime and allow yourself to unwind and relax before you go to bed for a better night’s sleep.
Puffy Eyes Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Why do I have eye bags at 15?
While puffy eyes are more common as you age because the skin loses its elasticity, you can get bags under your eyes at any age. The most common reasons at a young age are from being dehydrated or not getting enough sleep. However, genetics can also be a factor for people who develop puffy eyes early in life. It’s best to see a doctor to rule out more serious health issues for the puffiness under your eyes.
Can drinking too much water cause under eye bags?
Drinking too little water is what can cause bags under the eyes. Drinking more water can help reduce puffiness.
What foods cause bags under eyes?
Foods high in sodium can cause you to retain more fluid, which can lead to puffy eyes.
Does caffeine cause puffy eyes?
Caffeine restricts the blood vessels, which can alleviate puffy eyes rather than causing them. Many cosmetic eye creams contain caffeine for this reason.
What vitamin is good for puffy eyes?
Vitamin A and C are both good for puffy eyes. They are anti-inflammatory and can help prevent swelling that leads to bags under the eyes.
If you suffer from bags under the eyes, you should seek help from Dr. Leo Lapuerta. Dr. Lapuerta is well-known and respected for using dermal fillers andBotox in Texas for many cosmetic reasons, including puffy eyes.Contact us today to learn more about your options and let us help you look refreshed and healthy.