As we get older, dark circles and bags underneath our eyes become more prominent. But make no mistake, this problem is not exclusive only to people getting on in their years. Young adults and teens can also have a
run-in with this annoying problem.
There are many factors that contribute to those unsightly dark circles and puffy bags underneath your eyes. The most common ones are lack of sleep, allergies, aging, stress, poor diet and genetics. Unless you have
surgery, there's no sure way to cure or get rid of circles or bags. By taking some easy steps at home to minimize them, you'll improve the appearance of your eyes and your overall health.
Stay Hydrated
Drink plenty of water. This will actually prevent your body from trying to retain it and causing a counterproductive swelling-affect that happens all over.
Watch Your Diet
Make a mental note to cut down on caffeine and sodium. Both of these promote water retention that can settle in your face as you sleep, causing puffy eyes. Take multi-vitamins, eat plenty of fruits and vegetables and you'll probably notice other benefits too, like reduced blood pressure and lower body fat.
Ease Your Stress Level
By reducing your stress, you'll rest and sleep more effectively. You'll be rubbing your eyes less and your facial expressions will be much more relaxed.
Get Plenty of Sleep
Lack of sleep is a major cause for both dark circles and under-eye bags. Maintain a regular sleep schedule and your body won't be thrown into overdrive with irregular hours. Try sleeping with your head on two
pillows, so fluids will be less likely to settle in your face and give you tired eyes.
Cool Compresses
Here's some simple remedies you can use right at home. For cool compresses to reduce the puffiness underneath your eyes, you can use tea bags, potato slices or the old standby, cucumber slices. For a quick
fix, try placing two spoons in the freezer for 10-15 minutes and position them over your eyes while you relax.
Use Concealer
A concealer can do wonders to hide dark circles or puffiness under your eyes. Choose a color that is just one shade lighter than your skin tone. If you go too light, you'll bring more attention to the problem area. Pat your concealer on first and blend it in so it looks natural. Then apply your foundation and set it with a light dusting of loose powder.
WARNINGS:
1. No drinks
Stay away from drinks at bedtime or restrict yourself to only a few sips. Drinking fluids before bedtime increases your body's fluid retention and the likelihood it will settle in your eyes during sleep.
2. Raise your bed
Elevating the head of your bed will prevent bags under eyes. Raising your head will keep fluids from setting around your eyes. Try placing six inch wooden blocks under your bed's headboard.
3. Beware of wrinkle creams
Some wrinkle creams work too well; they plump up the skin to reduce wrinkles but also help give you puffy eyes. Try using a dark circle cream like RevitaLume which targets dark circles and undereye bags.
4. Skip the feather comforter
If you have a feather comforter and find that you often wake up with bags under your eyes it can be a sign that you are allergic to feathers. Try switching to quilts and pillows filled with cotton or synthetic material.
5. Stay away from salty foods
According to Dr. Stefanyszyn, foods with high salt and MSG contribute to puffy eyes. Try to stay away from dinners that contain too much salt or sodium.
