Under-eye bags are a common concern that can affect people of all ages. These puffy areas under the eyes are often one of the first signs of ageing, but they can also appear due to various other factors. Understanding what causes these bags is the first step in managing and minimising their appearance.
In this blog, we'll explore the different reasons why under-eye bags form, which will help you gain a clearer insight into this common issue.
What Causes Baggy Eyes?
Under-eye bags can be caused by several factors:
Genetics
Your genes play a significant role in the development of under-eye bags. If your family has a tendency for under-eye puffiness or certain skin types, you might inherit a similar predisposition. This can affect the amount of fat and skin characteristics under your eyes, making you more prone to developing bags in that area.
Fatigue
When you don’t get enough sleep or stay up too late, it can cause fluid to collect under your eyes. This fluid buildup often results in puffiness and a swollen appearance around the under-eye area. Over time, this can make your eyes look tired and less refreshed.
Ageing
As you grow older, the skin and tissues around your eyes naturally lose their elasticity and strength. This loss of firmness can cause the skin to sag and result in a ‘baggy’ appearance in the lower eyelid area. Over time, the fat that normally supports the eye can shift, which contributes to the formation of under-eye bags. Using the best under eye serum will surely help you reduce your under eye bags significantly.
Fluid Retention
Fluid retention, which can occur due to dehydration or excessive salt consumption, often leads to fluid accumulation around the eyes. This build-up can cause noticeable puffiness and swelling in the under-eye area.
Allergies
Allergic reactions can lead to inflammation around the eyes, which causes the tissues under your eyes to swell. This swelling often results in noticeable puffiness or bags. Common allergens like pollen, dust, or certain foods can trigger these reactions, making the area under your eyes look swollen and tired.
UV Exposure
Spending time in the sun without proper protection can damage the delicate skin around your eyes. Over time, this sun damage weakens the skin’s support structures, which leads to the development of under-eye bags and a more aged appearance.
Lifestyle Factors
Certain lifestyle habits can contribute to the development of under-eye bags. Smoking, drinking too much alcohol, and consuming a diet high in sodium can all lead to puffiness around the eyes. These factors can affect skin health and fluid balance, making under-eye bags more noticeable.
Medical Conditions
Medical conditions like thyroid disorders, sinus infections, and issues with the liver or kidneys can also lead to the formation of under-eye bags. These health problems can cause fluid buildup and swelling in the area around the eyes.
Stress
Ongoing stress can lead to increased inflammation and poor blood circulation, which can aggravate under-eye puffiness and make bags more noticeable. The effects of chronic stress can weaken the skin and exacerbate the appearance of under-eye issues.
Screen Time
Extended periods spent in front of screens can contribute to the formation of under-eye bags. Prolonged screen use can actually cause eye strain and fatigue, which may lead to increased puffiness and swelling around the eyes. This happens because the eyes work harder to focus, which leads to tiredness and fluid retention in the under-eye area.
Can Thyroid Problems Lead to Under-Eye Bags?
Yes, thyroid problems can contribute to the development of under-eye bags. Thyroid hormones help regulate many body functions, and when they’re off balance, they can lead to fluid buildup and swelling around the eyes.
Additional symptoms of thyroid issues might include:
- Fatigue
- Unexplained weight changes
- Hair loss
- Dry skin
- Difficulty maintaining body temperature
If you notice under-eye bags along with any of these symptoms, it is important to consult a doctor for evaluation and diagnosis.
Why Under-Eye Bags Form When You Get Older?
Under-eye bags or puffiness usually happen because of ageing. As you get older, your skin becomes less firm and starts to sag or wrinkle. The muscles and tissues around your eyes can also weaken, which causes the area to look puffy. This weakening lets the fat around your eyes push out, making the skin under your eyes appear swollen.
Conclusion - What Causes Bags Under Your Eyes?
Bags under the eyes are a common cosmetic issue that can be caused by a variety of factors. Eye bags typically result from ageing, as the tissues and muscles around the eyes weaken. This can cause fat to shift into the lower eyelids, which creates a puffy appearance. While generally not a serious condition, at-home remedies like cool compresses can help reduce puffiness. It is also worth trying a well-formulated eye serum and LED mask, some of the best solutions to your ‘How to get rid of eye bags?’ conundrum. For more persistent or bothersome cases, eyelid surgery may be considered.
