Optometrists often get asked how to get rid of under eye bags. Many people have likely looked in the mirror and seen puffy, swollen eyelids and wondered what causes them and how to get rid of them. In this blog post, we shed light on the subject and offer natural, medical, and surgical options for treatment.

Natural remedies for under eye bags

• Avoid high salt diets. Salt can cause water to accumulate in the tissues, leading to puffy and swollen eyes. To reduce puffiness, try to limit your intake of salty foods and drinks.
• Use cold compresses. Cold compresses can help shrink the blood vessels around the eye, reducing puffiness. You can use a cold compress mask, a bag of peas, or even a frozen spoon. The coolness of the compress will help shrink down the eyelids, making the under eye bags less noticeable.
• Do not rub your eyes if you have eye allergies. Instead, use a cold compress and antihistamine eye drops to reduce swelling and itchiness.
• Get enough sleep. Aim for 7-8 hours of sleep each night to help reduce puffiness and dark circles.
• Manage stress. Stress can cause a number of health issues, including puffiness and dark circles around the eyes. Try incorporating stress-reducing activities such as yoga, meditation, or exercise into your daily routine.
• Stay hydrated. Drinking enough water can help to flush toxins out of the body, reducing puffiness and dark circles. Aim to drink at least 8 glasses of water a day.

Under eye bag creams

We do not recommend under eye bag creams as they often do not work as advertised and can dry out the skin. Many creams contain harsh chemicals or irritants that can further damage the delicate skin around the eyes. Additionally, many of these creams only provide temporary results and do not address the underlying cause of under eye bags. It's important to note that the skin around the eyes is very thin and delicate, so it's important to be cautious when using any kind of skincare product in this area.

Surgical options for under eye bags

Lower eyelid blepharoplasty

Lower eyelid blepharoplasty, also known as a lower eyelid lift, is a surgical procedure that removes excess skin and fat from the eyelids. The procedure is typically performed as an outpatient procedure with local anesthesia and the incision is made under the eyelid to minimize scarring.

Consult with an oculoplastic surgeon

If you are considering surgery for under eye bags, it's important to consult with an oculoplastic surgeon or plastic surgeon who has experience with lower lid blepharoplasty. This can help ensure that you are a good candidate for the procedure and that the surgeon has the necessary expertise to perform the procedure safely.

Preventing under eye bags: tips from an optometrist

• Wearing UV light protecting sunblock on your skin regularly when you're outside can help slow down sunlight damage to your skin.
• Wearing wide brim hats and sunglasses can also help protect your skin from sunlight damage.
• Eating a healthy diet that is rich in fruits and vegetables can help reduce inflammation and improve circulation. Exercise is also beneficial for promoting healthy blood flow and reducing stress, which can contribute to the appearance of under eye bags.
• Getting enough sleep is essential for overall health and can also help reduce puffiness and dark circles around the eyes. Aim for 7-8 hours of sleep each night.
• Stress can contribute to the appearance of under eye bags. Incorporating stress-reducing activities such as yoga, meditation, or exercise into your daily routine can help reduce stress and improve your overall well-being.
• Drinking enough water can help to flush toxins out of the body, reducing puffiness and dark circles. Aim to drink at least 8 glasses of water a day.
• Smoking and excessive alcohol consumption can contribute to the appearance of under eye bags. Limiting or avoiding these habits can help keep your skin looking healthy and youthful.
• Elevating your head while sleeping can help to reduce the accumulation of fluids in the under-eye area, preventing puffiness.

What causes under eye bags?

Under eye bags can be caused by a variety of factors, including genetics, aging, high salt diets, and allergies. When you eat a lot of salty food, it can cause water to accumulate in your tissues, leading to swollen, puffy eyes with that under eye bag appearance. Similarly, allergies can cause histamine to be released from your tissue, resulting in swollen, red and itchy eyes. Lack of sleep, stress, and hormonal changes can also contribute to the appearance of under eye bags.

Schedule an appointment with your eye doctor

Under eye bags can be caused by a variety of factors, including high salt diets, allergies, and genetics. While there are natural remedies, creams, and surgical options available, it's important to consult with our optometrist to determine the best course of treatment for you. By taking a holistic approach, we will work together to develop a personalized treatment plan that addresses your unique needs and goals. Remember that it's important to be patient and consistent with your treatment plan, as it may take time to see results. And if you have any concerns about your eyes or under eye bags, please schedule an appointment with your optometrist.