You might be able to lessen the look of under-eye bags over time by adopting certain lifestyle habits such as getting adequate sleep and keeping well-hydrated.
Although numerous products promise to de-puff and brighten the under-eye area, they don’t always deliver. This is particularly true when eye bags and dark circles are hereditary.
Other frequent contributors include:
- allergies
- eczema
- ongoing fatigue
- pigmentation concerns
- sun exposure
- aging
Keep reading to discover ways to minimize the look of under-eye bags.
1. Apply tea bags
Caffeinated tea bags can be used under the eyes to help with dark circles and puffiness.
Caffeine in tea contains potent antioxidants and may boost blood flow to the skin. It’s also believed to offer some protection against UV damage and could slow aspects of aging.
Green tea, especially, may have anti-inflammatory properties, according to research.
To try this method:
- Steep two tea bags for 3 to 5 minutes.
- Place the tea bags in the refrigerator to chill for 20 minutes.
- Squeeze out excess liquid and hold them against your under-eye area.
- Keep the tea bags on for 15 to 30 minutes.
2. Use a cold compress
A cold compress can help reduce the appearance of dark circles. Applying cold constricts blood vessels briefly, offering temporary relief.
While you can buy a cold compress, simple home remedies can be just as effective.
DIY options include:
- chilled teaspoons
- cool cucumber slices
- a damp, cool washcloth
- a bag of frozen vegetables
Wrap your compress in a soft cloth before using it to avoid extreme cold on the skin. You only need to apply it for a few minutes to notice an effect.
3. Clear your sinuses with nasal irrigation
Using a Neti Pot may ease under-eye bags and dark circles. A Neti Pot is filled with a saline solution; you insert the spout into your nostril and rinse the sinuses, removing mucus and debris.
Learn how to use a Neti Pot.
4. Stay hydrated
Dehydration can make under-eye bags worse. Around the world, many people don’t meet daily water intake recommendations.
How much water do you need? Guidelines vary and depend on factors such as:
- age
- activity level
- climate
- sex assigned at birth
- whether you’re pregnant
If you dislike plain water, remember that all fluids count toward your daily intake. Try sparkling or flavored water, fruit-infused water, or hot/cold herbal decaffeinated tea.
5. Take an antihistamine
Allergies can lead to puffy, dark under-eye circles. You may also get discoloration or watery, itchy eyes when reacting to allergens.
If you suspect your under-eye bags are allergy-related, consult a doctor about over-the-counter allergy medicines. Common options include:
- diphenhydramine (Benadryl)
- cetirizine (Zyrtec)
- loratadine (Claritin)
It’s also wise to avoid known allergens when possible.
If the trigger is unclear, keep a symptom diary to identify substances that provoke a reaction. For persistent issues, consider allergy testing with a physician.
6. Add retinol cream to your routine
While eye creams are common, focusing on specific ingredients matters. Retinol creams are used for various skin concerns, such as:
- acne
- psoriasis
- signs of aging
Retinol is related to vitamin A and comes in cream, gel, or liquid forms.
Applied topically, retinol can help address collagen loss. Over-the-counter retinol strengths vary; higher concentrations usually require a dermatologist’s prescription. Some retinol formulas aren’t suitable for the under-eye area, so choose one designed for that delicate skin.
Experts commonly suggest applying retinol to the skin once daily, about 30 minutes after cleansing your face.
If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, doctors generally advise avoiding retinol and high-dose vitamin A products.
7. Products for hyperpigmentation
Skin-lightening creams often contain hydroquinone, which interferes with melanin production and can help fade dark circles or under-eye discoloration.
Hydroquinone is available by prescription from a dermatologist, and consistent use is necessary to achieve lasting improvement.
Note that hydroquinone’s benefits can be reversed by sun exposure, so it’s typically applied at night during winter months and used with sunscreen during the day.
Some people may experience side effects like:
- dryness
- irritation
- mild skin reactions
If you notice adverse effects, discontinue use.
8. Wear sunscreen daily
Protecting your skin from sun damage can help with issues such as:
- premature aging
- skin cancer
- discoloration
Daily sunscreen may also improve the look of under-eye bags and dark circles.
The American Academy of Dermatology Association advises everyone to use sunscreen. Broad-spectrum sunscreens shield against UVA and UVB rays; choose SPF 30 or higher and look for water-resistant formulations. Reapply as directed on the product label.
You can further reduce sun exposure by:
- sitting in the shade
- wearing sun-protective clothing
- avoiding tanning beds
- being cautious around water, snow, and sand, which can intensify sun exposure
Check out our top sunscreen picks.
9. See a dermatologist
A dermatologist can recommend longer-term treatments, such as prescription creams or cosmetic procedures to address swelling, discoloration, and pigment concerns like dark circles and under-eye bags. Treatments may include:
- microneedling
- laser therapy
- chemical peels
- injectable fillers for puffy eyelids
Some procedures may require repeat sessions for sustained results.
10. Wash your face before bed
Improving your nighttime routine can help prevent under-eye bags. It’s especially important to wash your face before sleeping, particularly if you wear makeup.
Sleeping with mascara or other eye makeup on can:
- irritate your eyes
- trigger allergic reactions
- lead to infections that cause discoloration, swelling, or other issues
Slepping in makeup exposes your skin to free radicals, which can cause oxidative stress and may lead to earlier signs of aging.
11. Sleep with your head elevated
Try raising your head with extra pillows while you sleep. Using two or more pillows or a wedge pillow can help.
Elevating your head helps prevent fluid from accumulating in the lower eyelids and forming puffiness during sleep.
If propping your head up causes neck pain or disrupts sleep, consider elevating the top of the bed by a few inches using bed risers or other supports.
12. Aim for at least eight hours of sleep when possible
Although lack of sleep may not directly cause under-eye circles, insufficient rest can make your skin appear paler, making any shadows or dark circles more noticeable.
Most adults are encouraged to get between 7 and 8 hours of sleep per night.
If you struggle to fall asleep, improve your sleep hygiene by:
- keeping a consistent sleep schedule, even on weekends
- avoiding nicotine before bedtime
- refraining from caffeine for several hours before bed
- avoiding alcohol near bedtime, since it can impair sleep quality
- not eating large meals a few hours before sleep
- finishing strenuous exercise a few hours before bed
- steering clear of screens like TVs and phones for 1 hour before sleep
- taking a hot bath or using relaxation techniques before bed
- making your room dark and cool, if possible
13. Eat more collagen-supporting foods
With age, the muscles and tissues that support your eyelids weaken, so skin can sag and fat around the eyes may shift.
Increasing vitamin C intake can improve your body’s ability to utilize hyaluronic acid. This naturally occurring substance diminishes with age.
Vitamin C and amino-acid-rich foods support collagen production by boosting hyaluronic acid levels, promoting healthier skin.
Good vitamin C sources include:
- oranges
- red peppers
- kale
- Brussels sprouts
- broccoli
- strawberries
14. Eat more iron-rich foods
Iron-deficiency anemia, a lack of adequate red blood cells, can cause dark circles and paler skin. Other symptoms include:
- extreme fatigue
- cold hands and feet
- brittle nails
A physician can test for anemia with a blood test. Treatment may involve boosting iron intake through diet or supplements depending on severity.
Iron-rich foods include:
- red meat, pork, and poultry
- seafood
- beans
- leafy greens like kale and spinach
- raisins, apricots, and other dried fruits
- iron-fortified cereals, breads, and pastas
- peas
15. Reduce salty foods
Consuming excessive salt may worsen under-eye bags because sodium affects fluid retention and can cause general puffiness. High salt intake is also linked to conditions like heart disease and stroke.
The American Heart Association suggests aiming for 1,500 mg or less of sodium per day when possible. Many guidelines recommend staying at or below 2,300 mg, but 1,500 mg is ideal for most adults.
Read labels to check salt content in packaged snacks. Cutting processed foods and favoring whole foods—fresh fruits and vegetables—lets you better control sodium intake.
16. Cut back on alcohol
Alcohol promotes dehydration, which can lead to under-eye bags and dark circles.
If you want a refreshing alternative, try flavored sparkling water or water infused with fruit.
17. Quit smoking if you smoke
Nicotine depletes vitamin C, which is needed for collagen production in the skin. Smoking can exacerbate:
- wrinkles
- discoloration
- under-eye bags
- dark circles
Stopping smoking benefits many aspects of health and can add years to your life while reducing the risk of numerous diseases.
Doctors often recommend cessation programs or medications to help manage nicotine withdrawal.
Frequently asked questions about under-eye bags
What gets rid of bags under the eyes fast?
A cold compress or chilled, steeped green tea bags can temporarily reduce the look of under-eye bags.
Can eye bags go away?
While you might not completely eliminate eye bags, their appearance can often be reduced with measures like improving sleep, sleeping elevated, quitting smoking, wearing sunscreen, and using topical retinol products.
What causes bags under the eyes?
Under-eye bags can result from genetics, aging, allergies, and skin conditions such as eczema or pigmentation disorders.
What is the new procedure for under-eye bags?
Non-surgical options to smooth the under-eye area include:
- Filler: Injection of fillers, often hyaluronic acid, beneath the eye to create a smoother contour.
- Laser resurfacing: A laser removes upper layers of skin below the eye, encouraging new collagen formation.
- Chemical peel: A peel removes aged top skin cells, revealing firmer, brighter skin underneath.
Surgical approaches include a lower eyelid lift, known as blepharoplasty.
How can I tighten the skin under my eyes?
You can help reduce under-eye puffiness with lifestyle changes like sleeping with your head elevated, staying hydrated, and lowering salt and alcohol intake.
Treating allergies or avoiding triggers may also lessen puffiness.
Takeaway
Dark under-eye circles are often inherited, but you can reduce their visibility with lifestyle adjustments such as getting adequate sleep, using appropriate topical products, and practicing sun protection.
Cosmetic procedures performed by a dermatologist can also help, though maintenance sessions may be necessary to preserve results.
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