Bags under the eyes, also known as periorbital puffiness, are a common cosmetic concern characterized by mild swelling or sagging of the skin beneath the eyes. They can be caused by various factors, including aging, lack of sleep, genetics, fluid retention, allergies, and lifestyle choices.
As we age, the tissues and muscles around our eyes weaken, causing the fat that supports the area to shift downward, leading to the appearance of bags. Although they are generally harmless, some people find them bothersome.
Fortunately, there are a variety of different treatments that can help reduce the appearance of bags under your eyes. This article provides you with 16 natural remedies to get rid of the bags under your eyes.
Symptoms of bags under the eyes
Symptoms of bags under the eyes include mild swelling or puffiness beneath the eyes, sagging or drooping skin under the eyes, and dark circles or shadows around the eye area.
These symptoms can be more noticeable in the morning or after a period of inadequate sleep. Bags under the eyes might also make a person look tired or older than they are.
Some common symptoms of bags under the eyes may include:
- Swelling or puffiness beneath the eyes
- Dark circles or discoloration under the eyes
- Sagging or drooping skin beneath the eyes
- Mild discomfort or itchiness in the affected area
- Tired or fatigued appearance
Common Causes of Bags Under Eyes
As we age, our skin loses collagen and elastin, causing it to become thinner and less elastic. The fat that supports the skin around our eyes can also migrate downwards, causing the skin to sag and form bags. Other factors that can cause bags under the eyes include:
- Genetics: Some people are genetically predisposed to having bags under their eyes, as the trait can be passed down through families.
- Lack of sleep: Insufficient sleep can lead to fluid retention and dark circles under the eyes, causing a tired appearance.
- Allergies: Allergic reactions can cause inflammation and swelling around the eyes, resulting in bags and puffiness.
- Dehydration: A lack of adequate water intake can cause the skin to become dry and thin, making the blood vessels under the eyes more noticeable.
- High salt intake: Consuming too much sodium can cause fluid retention, leading to puffiness and bags under the eyes.
- Alcohol and tobacco use: Excessive alcohol consumption and smoking can dehydrate and weaken the skin, causing bags under the eyes to become more prominent.
- Stress: Chronic stress can cause hormonal imbalances that lead to fluid retention and puffiness around the eyes.
- Poor diet: A diet lacking essential nutrients and antioxidants can contribute to skin aging and the appearance of bags under the eyes.
16 Natural Remedies to Get Rid of Bags Under Eyes
1. Cold Compress
One of the simplest and most effective ways to reduce under-eye bags is to apply a cold compress. The cool temperature helps constrict blood vessels, reducing swelling and inflammation.
To make a cold compress, try one of these methods:
- Wrap a few ice cubes in a clean cloth and hold it gently against your eyes for 10-15 minutes.
- Soak a clean washcloth in cold water, wring it out, and place it over your eyes for 10-15 minutes.
- Chill two spoons in the refrigerator, then place the rounded sides against your eyes for a few minutes.
Repeat this process a few times a day for best results. Be sure not to apply ice directly to your skin, as this can cause damage to the delicate under-eye area. Always use a barrier, such as a cloth or towel, between the ice and your skin.
In addition to reducing puffiness, cold compresses can also help alleviate dark circles under the eyes by improving circulation and reducing inflammation.
2. Tea Bags
Tea bags, particularly green or black tea, contain caffeine and antioxidants that can help reduce swelling and dark circles under the eyes.
To use tea bags as a remedy for under-eye bags:
- Steep two tea bags in hot water for 3-5 minutes.
- Remove the tea bags and let them cool in the refrigerator for 10-20 minutes.
- Lie down and place the chilled tea bags over your closed eyes for 15-30 minutes.
- Remove the tea bags and gently rinse your face with cool water.
Repeat this process once or twice a day for best results. Green tea is particularly effective for reducing under-eye bags, as it contains a high concentration of antioxidants called catechins. It has anti-inflammatory and skin-protective properties.
In addition to using chilled tea bags, you can also try applying a small amount of cooled green tea directly to your under-eye area using a cotton ball or pad. Leave the tea on for 10-15 minutes, then rinse it off with cool water. This method can help deliver the beneficial compounds in green tea directly to your skin for maximum effectiveness.
3. Cucumber Slices
Cucumber slices are a classic remedy for puffy eyes, and for good reason. They contain antioxidants and flavonoids that help reduce inflammation, as well as vitamin K, which can help lighten dark circles.
To use cucumber slices for under-eye bags:
- Cut a chilled cucumber into thick slices.
- Lie down and place a slice over each closed eye for 10-15 minutes.
- Remove the slices and gently rinse your face with cool water.
Repeat this process once or twice a day for best results. Cucumbers are naturally hydrating and can help soothe and moisturize the delicate skin under your eyes, reducing puffiness and irritation.
For an extra cooling and depuffing effect, try putting your cucumber slices in the freezer for a few minutes before applying them to your eyes. The cold temperature will help constrict blood vessels and reduce swelling even more effectively.
You can also try blending a cucumber into a smooth paste and applying it to your under-eye area as a soothing mask. Leave the mask on for 15-20 minutes, then rinse it off with cool water. This method can help deliver the beneficial compounds in cucumbers directly to your skin for maximum effectiveness.
4. Potato Slices
Like cucumbers, potatoes contain antioxidants and vitamin K that can help reduce puffiness and dark circles under the eyes.
To use potato slices for under-eye bags:
- Cut a chilled potato into thick slices.
- Lie down and place a slice over each closed eye for 10-15 minutes.
- Remove the slices and gently rinse your face with cool water.
Repeat this process once or twice a day for best results. Potatoes contain an enzyme called catecholase, which can help lighten dark circles and reduce the appearance of under-eye bags.
For an extra boost, try grating a raw potato and applying the pulp to your under-eye area as a mask. Leave the mask on for 15-20 minutes, then rinse it off with cool water. This method can help deliver the beneficial compounds in potatoes directly to your skin for maximum effectiveness.
5. Aloe Vera Gel
Aloe vera gel has anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce puffiness and soothe the delicate skin under the eyes.
To use aloe vera gel for under-eye bags:
- Apply a small amount of pure aloe vera gel under each eye using your ring finger.
- Gently tap the gel into your skin until it’s fully absorbed.
- Leave the gel on overnight and rinse it off in the morning with cool water.
Repeat this process every night before bed for best results. Aloe vera is naturally hydrating and can help moisturize and plump the skin under your eyes, reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
For an extra cooling and depuffing effect, try storing your aloe vera gel in the refrigerator before applying it to your skin. The cold temperature will help constrict blood vessels and reduce swelling even more effectively.
You can also try mixing aloe vera gel with a small amount of vitamin E oil or green tea extract to create a more potent and nourishing treatment.
Vitamin E is a powerful antioxidant that can help protect the skin from damage, while green tea extract contains catechins that have anti-inflammatory and skin-protective properties.
6. Egg Whites
Egg whites contain protein and vitamins that can help tighten and tone the skin under the eyes, reducing the appearance of bags.
To use egg whites for under-eye bags:
- Separate the white from the yolk of one egg.
- Beat the egg white until it’s frothy.
- Apply a thin layer of the egg white under each eye using your ring finger.
- Let the egg white dry for 10-15 minutes, then rinse it off with cool water.
Repeat this process once or twice a week for best results. Egg whites contain albumin, a protein that can help tighten and firm the skin, reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
For an extra nourishing treatment, try mixing the egg white with a small amount of honey or aloe vera gel before applying it to your skin. Honey has natural antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. Aloe vera is naturally hydrating and can help soothe and moisturize the skin.
You can also try applying the egg white to your under-eye area using a small brush or cotton swab for more precise application. Be sure to avoid getting the egg white in your eyes, as it can cause irritation.
7. Coconut Oil
Coconut oil is rich in fatty acids that can help moisturize and nourish the delicate skin under the eyes, reducing puffiness and dark circles.
To use coconut oil for under-eye bags:
- Gently massage a small amount of pure, organic coconut oil under each eye using your ring finger.
- Leave the oil on overnight and rinse it off in the morning with warm water.
Repeat this process every night before bed for best results. Coconut oil is naturally antibacterial and anti-inflammatory, making it a great choice for sensitive or acne-prone skin.
For an extra nourishing treatment, try mixing a small amount of coconut oil with a few drops of vitamin E oil or rosehip seed oil before applying it to your skin.
8. Vitamin E Oil
Vitamin E oil is a powerful antioxidant that can help protect the skin under the eyes from damage and reduce the appearance of bags and dark circles.
To use vitamin E oil for under-eye bags:
- Puncture a vitamin E capsule and squeeze a small amount of the oil onto your fingertip.
- Gently pat the oil under each eye, being careful not to get it in your eyes.
- Leave the oil on overnight and rinse it off in the morning with warm water.
Repeat this process every night before bed for best results. Vitamin E oil is naturally moisturizing and can help plump and hydrate the skin, reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
You can also try applying vitamin E oil to your under-eye area using a small jade roller or gua sha tool. These tools can help stimulate circulation and lymphatic drainage, reducing puffiness and promoting a more youthful, refreshed appearance.
9. Witch Hazel
Witch hazel is a natural astringent that can help tighten and tone the skin under the eyes, reducing puffiness and bags.
To use witch hazel for under-eye bags:
- Soak two cotton pads in pure witch hazel.
- Lie down and place a cotton pad over each closed eye for 10-15 minutes.
- Remove the pads and gently rinse your face with cool water.
Repeat this process once or twice a day for best results. Witch hazel contains tannins, which are naturally astringent and can help reduce inflammation and tighten the skin.
For an extra soothing treatment, try chilling your witch hazel in the refrigerator before applying it to your skin. The cold temperature will help constrict blood vessels and reduce swelling even more effectively.
You can also try mixing a small amount of witch hazel with a few drops of lavender or chamomile essential oil before applying it to your skin. These essential oils have natural anti-inflammatory and skin-soothing properties.
10. Massage
Gently massaging the area under your eyes can help stimulate circulation, reduce fluid retention, and minimize the appearance of bags.
To massage your under-eye area:
- Apply a small amount of eye cream or oil to your fingertips.
- Using your ring fingers, gently tap the skin under your eyes, moving from the inner corner to the outer corner.
- Continue tapping for 30-60 seconds, being careful not to pull or tug on the delicate skin.
Repeat this process once or twice a day for best results. Massaging your under-eye area can help improve lymphatic drainage, which can reduce puffiness and promote a more youthful, refreshed appearance.
For an extra soothing treatment, try using a jade roller or gua sha tool to massage your under-eye area. These tools can help stimulate circulation and lymphatic drainage even more effectively than using your fingers alone.
11. Sleep with Your Head Elevated
Sleeping with your head slightly elevated can help prevent fluid from pooling under your eyes overnight, reducing the appearance of bags in the morning.
To sleep with your head elevated:
- Use an extra pillow or a wedge pillow to prop up your head while you sleep.
- Make sure your head is elevated about 6-8 inches above your heart.
Sleeping with your head elevated can also help reduce the appearance of dark circles under your eyes by improving circulation and reducing inflammation. For an extra boost, try using a silk or satin pillowcase. This can help reduce friction and prevent the delicate skin around your eyes from becoming irritated or wrinkled.
12. Stay Hydrated
Drinking plenty of water throughout the day can help flush out toxins and reduce fluid retention, which can contribute to under-eye bags.
To stay hydrated:
- Aim to drink at least 8-10 glasses of water per day.
- Avoid excessive alcohol and caffeine consumption, which can dehydrate your body.
- Eat plenty of water-rich fruits and vegetables, such as watermelon, cucumber, and celery.
Staying hydrated can also help plump and moisturize the skin under your eyes, reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. For an extra boost, try adding a slice of lemon or lime to your water, which can help alkalize your body and promote better digestion.
13. Reduce Salt Intake
Consuming too much salt can cause your body to retain water, leading to puffiness and bags under the eyes.
To reduce your salt intake:
- Avoid processed and packaged foods, which are often high in sodium.
- Use herbs and spices instead of salt to flavor your meals.
- Read nutrition labels carefully and choose low-sodium options whenever possible.
Reducing your salt intake can also help improve your overall health by lowering your risk of high blood pressure, heart disease, and stroke.
For an extra boost, try incorporating potassium-rich foods into your diet, such as bananas, sweet potatoes, and spinach. It can help balance out the effects of sodium in your body.
14. Get Enough Sleep
Lack of sleep can contribute to dark circles and bags under the eyes, so it’s important to prioritize getting enough rest each night.
To get enough sleep:
- Aim for 7-9 hours of sleep per night.
- Establish a consistent sleep schedule, going to bed and waking up at the same time each day.
- Create a relaxing bedtime routine, such as taking a warm bath or reading a book, to help you wind down before sleep.
Getting enough sleep can also help improve your overall health and well-being by reducing stress, boosting your immune system, and improving your mood and cognitive function. For an extra boost, try incorporating relaxation techniques into your bedtime routine, such as deep breathing, meditation, or gentle stretching.
15. Manage Allergies
Allergies can cause inflammation and fluid retention around the eyes, leading to puffiness and bags.
To manage allergies:
- Identify and avoid your allergy triggers, such as pollen, dust, or pet dander.
- Use over-the-counter or prescription allergy medications as directed by your doctor.
- Keep your home clean and free of allergens by vacuuming regularly and using air purifiers.
Managing your allergies can also help improve your overall health and quality of life by reducing symptoms such as sneezing, runny nose, and itchy eyes. For an extra boost, try incorporating natural remedies into your allergy management routine.
16. Try a DIY Eye Mask
Making your own eye mask using natural ingredients can help soothe and depuff the skin under your eyes.
To make a DIY eye mask:
- Mix together 1 tablespoon of aloe vera gel, 1 teaspoon of honey, and 1/2 teaspoon of vitamin E oil.
- Apply the mixture under your eyes using your ring finger.
- Leave the mask on for 15-20 minutes, then rinse it off with cool water.
Repeat this process once or twice a week for best results. Aloe vera is naturally hydrating and can help soothe and moisturize the skin, while honey has natural antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties.
For an extra cooling and depuffing effect, try storing your DIY eye mask in the refrigerator before applying it to your skin. The cold temperature will help constrict blood vessels and reduce swelling even more effectively.
When to See a Doctor?
While bags under the eyes are usually harmless and don’t require medical attention, there are certain cases where you should see a doctor. Here are some signs that you should make an appointment with your healthcare provider:
- If you have bags under your eyes that are accompanied by redness, itching, or pain. Or if they persist despite lifestyle changes or home remedies, you should see a doctor.
- If you experience other symptoms, such as difficulty breathing, hives, or swelling in other parts of your body, you may have an allergic reaction and should seek medical attention immediately.
- Bags under the eyes can sometimes be a symptom of an underlying medical condition such as thyroid disease or an infection. If your doctor suspects that an underlying condition may contribute to your bags, they may recommend further testing or treatment.
- If you are bothered by the appearance of bags under your eyes and are considering cosmetic treatments, it’s important to discuss your options with a healthcare professional. They can help you understand the risks and benefits of different treatments and recommend the best approach for your needs.
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