Causes and Natural Remedies for Under Eye Bags
October 9, 2019
You’ve probably had someone point out bags under your eyes and tell you to get more sleep. While sleep contributes, it’s not the only culprit. So, why do we get them? Here are some common causes and at home remedies for these puffy inconveniences.
Why do we get bags under our eyes?
Our eyes and the skin around them are supported by our bones, muscles, proteins and fat deposits. As we age, our bones lose volume, our muscles weaken and our collagen and elastin degrade, leaving us with droopy skin and empty space. This space allows fat deposits to congregate under the eyes and they tend to get bigger.
For some, bags appear darker. The skin under your eyes is extremely thin and transparent, making blood vessels more prominent and noticeable.
Even though aging is the main cause of under eye bags, there are also other factors and ways to manage them.
Genetics – Some people are prone to under eye bags because, unfortunately, they are hereditary.
Allergies – Allergies can cause irritation to the eyes and swelling in the sinuses around your eyes. Try some aromatherapy essential oils for allergies or ask your healthcare professional about over-the-counter medication and sinus cleansing products.
Smoking – Nicotine is a stimulant that disrupts your natural sleep pattern which can cause fluid to gather and overall swelling.
Alcohol – Alcohol dehydrates you and your skin. Since your eye skin is already fragile, it doesn’t take much to dehydrate, weaken and form bags. Limit alcohol intake and be sure to drink plenty of water.
Make-up – Sleeping with makeup on suffocates the skin and may cause swelling. Take off your makeup and gently wash your face before bed. This will let your skin breathe and refresh while you sleep.
Eating salty food – Salt causes the body to retain fluid, even under the eyes. Try to limit your salt intake to improve the health and appearance of your skin.
Sleep– Sleep allows tissues under the eye to settle and refresh so, aim for 7 hours a night. Also, your sleep position plays a role – if you sleep face down, fluid relocates to under your eyes. Try sleeping on your back or side with a supportive pillow. Incorporating a natural sleep supplement into your regimen could also help reducing signs of aging.
Sun – UV rays can damage the skin and proteins around your eyes causing dehydration, sagging and wrinkles. Make sure to wear sunglasses and put on sunscreen.
Exercise – Exercise helps to reduce the signs of aging plus. There are specific face exercises plus, workouts such as yoga involve inverted poses that can increase circulation, relieving swelling.
What you eat plays a role in how your skin looks and ages. Eat more fruits and vegetables for antioxidant protection and try to include more collagen, even if it’s a supplement. Eating more salmon can help improve blood flow to the skin and staying hydrated will help your skin flourish.
Having a good skincare routine consisting of natural, skin-loving products can go a long way. Be sure to wash your face before bed. Look for products that include vitamin A (Retinol), vitamin C, CoQ-10, hyaluronic acid, salicylic acid, glycerin and alpha / beta-hydroxy acids. Remember all skin types are different, so find products that work for you. If you’re looking for a natural, complete skincare routine, take a look at our Nu U product collection – it includes a balancing cleanser, face firming serum, moisture optimizer toner, reviatlizing vitamin c cream, bright and hydrate mist, and CoQ-10 gold gels.
Other Remedies
A Cold Compress can help reduce the swelling.
A Green Tea Bag on each eye can help decrease inflammation.
Applying egg whites around your eyes can help temporarily tighten skin.
Cold Cucumbers – cucumbers contain vitamin C and caffeic acid (to restrict blood vessels) that in addition to the cold, will help de-puff the eyes.
Sliced potatoes over the eyes – potatoes contain an anti-inflammatory enzyme that helps with the puffiness and the starch will draw out toxins.
An eye massager promotes blood flow to and around the eyes plus, it can help break up and prevent blood from pooling in capillaries under the eyes.
