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Dark circles and puffiness under the eyes are common concerns, but their root causes are often misunderstood. Fat under the eyes, which is caused by the accumulation of fat, is a widespread issue. Understanding the reasons behind their development and exploring potential treatments is crucial. Dive into the world of eye bags to discover more about this common concern!
What are Bags Under the Eyes?
Under-eye bags are characterized by swollen or puffy skin beneath the eyes and can contribute to a tired appearance, particularly when accompanied by dark circles. While this condition can affect individuals of any age, it is more prevalent in those who are chronically fatigued, dehydrated or have a naturally deep-set eye area. To address the appearance of under-eye bags, understanding the causes and potential remedies is essential.
What Causes Under Eye Bags?
Under-eye bags can result from a variety of factors, including:
- The natural aging process
- Genetics
- Poor diet and lifestyle habits
- Lack of sleep
- Stress
- Allergies
- Dehydration
- Smoking
- Overuse of alcohol
- Hormone fluctuations in women during menopause or pregnancy
- Excessive salt intake
These factors can lead to thinning and delicacy of the skin around the eyes, increasing the likelihood of fluid retention and puffiness in the area.
Why Under-eye Bags Appear When You Get Older
As individuals age, the natural thinning of the skin occurs, resulting in the formation of under-eye bags. This happens because the fatty tissue beneath the skin gradually thins and loses its volume, leading to a hollow and baggy appearance in the under-eye area, resembling a bubble-like contour.
How To Eliminate Bags Under Your Eyes
At Home Remedies
Hemorrhoid creams
Certain individuals may choose to apply over-the-counter creams intended for treating hemorrhoids beneath their eyes. These creams typically contain ingredients like phenylephrine, which work to constrict blood vessels, thereby reducing puffiness and swelling in the area.
Nevertheless, it’s crucial to exercise caution when using these products around your eyes, as they have the potential to cause irritation and worsen the condition if they accidentally come into contact with your eyes.
Cold compresses
Applying a cold compress to the area around your eyes is an effective method for reducing inflammation and swelling. You can use items like an ice pack, a frozen bag of vegetables, or chilled spoons and gently place them over closed eyes for a few minutes. This can help alleviate puffiness caused by under-eye bags, providing a soothing effect that can make your eyes look less swollen and tired.
Caffeine
Applying eye creams with caffeine as an ingredient is a popular way to reduce under-eye puffiness because of its vasoconstrictive properties.
Similarly, chilled caffeinated tea bags, such as green tea or black tea, can be used and placed with closed eyes to help constrict the blood vessels and reduce swelling. This provides a refreshing feeling around the eyes and gives the area a more even appearance.
Medical Options
Nonsurgical options
- Chemical peel
A chemical peel is a cosmetic procedure performed in a clinic or office where a solution is applied to the skin under your eyes. This solution dissolves the top layers of skin, revealing a smoother and more even complexion beneath. The effects of this treatment can endure for several years, influenced by factors such as your skin type and sun exposure.
- Filler
This innovative treatment effectively addresses the area between the cheek and under the eye. A gel-like substance, often hyaluronic acid, is injected with a local anesthetic in a medical office to create a smooth and natural result. The benefits of this procedure can persist for up to a year.
- Laser resurfacing
This treatment functions by eliminating surface wrinkles in the under-eye area through laser therapy. Simultaneously, it promotes collagen production, which enhances skin firmness and resilience.
Typically, the results can endure for several years. Nevertheless, the duration may vary based on individual skin traits and exposure to sunlight over time.
Surgical options
A popular surgical option for eliminating the appearance of eye bags is blepharoplasty. It is an outpatient procedure of plastic surgery in which excess skin and fat around the eyes are removed to reshape and restore the area’s look.
This can result in improved clarity and shape of the eyes and a more youthful appearance. Recovery can take several weeks, but results may last years.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the differences between fat transfer and dermal fillers?
Fat transfer, also popular as fat grafting, is a procedure that involves removing small amounts of fat from other body parts and injecting them into the face to help restore volume and enhance facial features. Meanwhile, dermal fillers are synthetic products injected into the face.
Fat transfers often provide more natural-looking results that last longer, while dermal fillers may require more frequent treatments to maintain desired effects.
Who gets under-eye fat transfers?
People eligible for fat under eyes transfers are those with enough body fat for the procedure. Meanwhile, very thin or pregnant people are recommended to get dermal fillers instead.
How long does it take to see the results from treatments for fat under the eyes?
Wait for at least 4-6 months to see the final results from treatments for fat under the eyes. This might seem like a very long waiting period, but it will be worth the wait once the final result appears.
Are there any risks or side effects associated with treatments for fat under the eyes?
Yes, some of the most common risks or side effects from fat under eyes treatment are bruising, pain, swelling, infection, bleeding, double vision, excessive muscle removal, numbness, and, in rare cases, blindness.
Conclusion
If you’re dealing with stubborn under-eye fat, there’s no need to fret. It’s a common concern, and there are several options available to address it, including home remedies, eyelid surgery, and non-surgical treatments.
To determine the most suitable approach for your under-eye fat, it’s advisable to consult with a plastic surgeon or dermatologist. With the right treatment plan, you can achieve your desired appearance!
