Under-eye bags and dark circles are a result of a variety of different factors which include genetics, allergies and overall lack of sleep. We like to encourage everyone to embrace their features and so-called “flaws” but if this is bothering you, here are some tips to help reduce their appearance. 

1. Stay hydrated

The skin below your eyes is very thin therefore capillaries (tiny blood vessels that transport blood, nutrients and oxygen to cells) don’t move fluids as easily as other parts of the body do, which causes you to have under-eye bags. However, fluids can be moved a lot better when drinking water, so drink at least two litres a day. 

2. Stay elevated when you sleep.

Elevating your head prevents the fluid that causes puffiness from going into your lower eyelids. You can elevate your head by sleeping with a few extra pillows or propping the top half of your bed up with bricks, for example.

3. Apply eye cream or eye serum.

If you happen to have puffiness/ under-eye bags that just won’t go away even with elevated sleep, try applying an eye cream or eye serum or even both. Try using one with hyaluronic acid because it creates a plumping effect and keeps the skin protected and hydrated.

4. Use tea bags 

 Putting caffeinated tea bags under your eyes helps with under-eye bags and dark circles because they contain antioxidants that increase blood flow to the skin, which is said to reduce under-eye skin from sagging.

5. Eat more iron-rich foods.

Iron deficiency can cause dark circles under the eyes and even pale skin because, in this condition, red blood cells are lacking, and those cells are responsible for carrying oxygen to tissues in the body, which reduces dark circles. You can avoid this by eating iron-rich foods which include red meat, seafood and leafy greens.

6. Eat more collagen-rich foods.

Collagen is a major component of connective tissue that makes up the skin and muscles it also provides the skin with structure, so when you get older and muscles around the eyelid start to get weaker and sag, collagen will help. To get more collagen into your body eat foods such as fish, chicken, egg whites, berries, and citrus food. 

7. Micro-needling 

Another way to get collagen would be through micro-needling, also known as collagen induction therapy. This is not a quick fix though, one will need at least six treatments spaced roughly a month apart, and it can be a bit pricey, but if this is something you’d be interested in doing and you’re not too scared of needles, consult with a doctor first to see the possible risks.

8. Apply make-up 

If all else fails, or if you just want a quick fix make-up can do wonders. Firstly, colour correct. If you don’t know what colour-correcting is, it’s neutralizing blemishes with specific pigments before putting on make-up. E.g if you have a lot of redness you use a green colour corrector, or if you have a lot of dull, discoloured skin, you use a pink colour corrector. For dark circles, an orange colour corrector is a winner. After you’ve finished with the colour corrector, apply a concealer that is full-coverage but also hydrating. Follow up with a slightly lighter concealer for brightness (optional), and then finish off with some setting powder to keep it all in place. Don’t use too much powder though because it can cause dryness which can make your make-up look cakey.

Words by Fran Rattle
Photography: Pexels