As an eye doctor, I often get asked about how to get rid of under eye bags. This is a common issue that many people face, especially as they age. Eye bags can be caused by a variety of factors, including genetics, lack of sleep, and diet. In this blog post, I will go over the causes of under eye bags, natural ways to prevent and treat them, and the pros and cons of different treatments, including under eye bag creams and surgical options.
Causes of Under Eye Bags
Under eye bags can be caused by a number of factors, including genetics, aging, lack of sleep, and diet. Genetics plays a big role in the development of under eye bags, as some people are simply more prone to them. Aging also contributes to the development of under eye bags, as the skin around the eyes becomes thinner and less elastic. Lack of sleep can also lead to under eye bags, as sleep deprivation causes the skin to become puffy and swollen. Finally, a high-salt diet can cause water to accumulate in the tissues, leading to swollen and puffy eyes.
Natural Ways to Prevent and Treat Under Eye Bags
There are several natural ways to prevent and treat under eye bags, including avoiding a high-salt diet, using cold compresses, and avoiding eye allergies. To avoid a high-salt diet, it is important to limit your intake of salty foods. Cold compresses, such as ice packs or frozen spoons, can help shrink the blood vessels around the eyes, reducing the appearance of under eye bags. If you suffer from eye allergies, it is important to avoid rubbing your eyes and to use antihistamine eye allergy drops or oral antihistamines.
Under Eye Bag Creams: Pros and Cons
There are many under eye bag creams on the market, but I am not a big fan of them. While some of these creams may temporarily reduce the appearance of under eye bags, they do not solve the underlying issue. Additionally, many under eye bag creams contain preservatives that can cause permanent damage to the oil glands in the eyelids, leading to dry skin and other issues.
Surgical Options for Treating Under Eye Bags
If natural remedies and under eye bag creams are not effective, there are surgical options for treating under eye bags. These options include blepharoplasty, which involves removing excess skin and fat from the upper or lower eyelids, and fat transfer, which involves transferring fat from one area of the body to the under eye area to fill in hollows and reduce the appearance of under eye bags.
Conclusion
Under eye bags can be a frustrating issue, but there are several options for treating them. By avoiding a high-salt diet, using cold compresses, and avoiding eye allergies, you can help prevent the development of under eye bags. If these natural remedies are not effective, there are also under eye bag creams and surgical options available. However, it is important to consider the pros and cons of each treatment and to consult with a doctor before undergoing any type of treatment.