How to Reduce Under Eye Bags

We’ve all got baggage, but some more than others.  The same is true for the baggage under your eyes.  Under eye bags are a common complaint of many women as they dissect their facial appearance.  While not always avoidable, there are ways to reduce under eye bags to create a brighter, healthier, younger looking appearance around the eyes.

Under eye bags are caused by several factors.  The skin under our eyes is thinner than other areas of the face, making blood vessels more visible beneath.  Blood vessels can appear brown, purple or greenish depending on your skin tone.  Sometimes eye bags are genetic and no matter how hard we try to eliminate those dark half-moons under our eyes, they will still show to some extent.

Other causes of under eye bags are behavioral and lifestyle choices.  Lack of sleep is a major culprit of under eye bags.  Tired skin tends to sag and discolor under the eyes, creating that all-too-familiar zombie-like appearance.  Also, fluid can build up under the eyes causing puffiness.  This may be a result of allergies, sinus congestion, too much salt intake, excessive alcohol consumption or other dietary or environmental reasons.  Spending too much time in front of a computer or television screen may cause eye bags as well.

Here are a few tips for those of you who want to try to reduce under eye bags without cosmetic procedures:

• Get plenty of sleep.  Seven to nine hours of sleep per night is the standard, but read your skin to see how much sleep you need to reduce under eye bags.  Also, sleep on your back propped up on pillows.  Side-sleepers may have more pronounced under eye bags due to gravity.
• Limit salt intake.  The daily recommended value of salt is 2,300 milligrams.  Read labels to discover hidden sources of salt in your diet.
• Manage nasal congestion and sinus issues by clearing them out through irrigation or steam.
• Remove all makeup, especially eye makeup, before going to bed.  Use a gentle cleanser or makeup remover.  Try not wearing mascara on your lower lashes for a few days to see if that improves your under eye bags.
• Don’t drink too much alcohol.  While an occasional drink is OK, excessive alcohol consumption contributes to skin aging and under eye bags.
• Eat antioxidants and potassium and drink water.  Antioxidants help protect and nourish skin cells for a glowing appearance.  Potassium helps reduce water retention and water flushes toxins and waste from the body.
• Moisturize day and night.  Keep your skin hydrated with a daytime and nighttime moisturizing cream.  Be sure to massage your moisturizer under your eyes and always wear SPF sunscreen while outdoors.
• Try one of these natural home remedies on your under eye bags:
  • Cold cucumber slices
  • A used tea bag
  • Lemon juice
  • Honey
  • Cold spoons
  • Potato slices

With these tips to reduce under eye bags, we hope your brightest, most beautiful skin is just a few steps away!

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