How to Get Rid of Under-Eye Bags & Lines

Aging causes the skin to get thinner, drier and less elastic, resulting in lines, according to CNN Health. The aging process also weakens the muscles around the eye, allowing the normal fat that helps support the eye to migrate to the lower eyelids and cause puffiness. When fluid is permitted to accumulate in this space, the appearance of bags is worsened. Under eye bags and lines are usually a cosmetic concern and seldom a sign of an underlying medical concern. Reducing the appearance of under eye bags and lines usually requires at-home treatments, not medical intervention.

A chilled eye mask or chilled cucumbers can reduce the appearance of under eye bags. (Image: Karin Lau/iStock/Getty Images)

Under Eye Bags

Step 1

Apply a cool, damp washcloth to your eyes using slight pressure. Cool damp tea bags, chilled teaspoons, cucumber slices and cool eye masks serve the same purpose as a cool compress.

Step 2

Improve your sleep patterns. Most adults need an average of seven to eight hours of sleep each night, according to CNN Health.

Step 3

Elevate the head of your bed. Using an extra pillow or propping up the head of your mattress will help stop fluids from building up under your eyes while you are sleeping. You could also try placing six-inch wooden blocks under your headboard.

Step 4

Treat allergies. Allergies play a major role in under eye bags associated with redness and itchiness. Avoid allergens or use an antihistamine to reduce the swelling.

Step 5

Reduce your salt intake. Fluid retention from excess salt intake can lead to under eye puffiness.

Step 6

Hide under eye bags using a concealer. It is best to use shade darker than your foundation for under your eyes. Lighter shades will accentuate the bags. To bring attention to your irises and away from the under eye bags, place a little highlighter on the inner corners of your eyes.

Under Eye Lines

Step 1

Apply an eye cream or gel before bed and in the morning. Nonmoisturized skin dries out and causes skin cells to shrivel, leading to fine lines and wrinkles.

Step 2

Apply skin-care products that contain a sunscreen. Be sure your skin-care products protect your skin from both UVA and UVB rays with an SPF of 15 or more, recommends the experts at CNN Health. This protects the delicate skin around the eyes from sun damage that leads to wrinkles.

Step 3

Quit smoking. As noted on the CNN Health website, you can improve your skin tone and texture, as well as prevent the development of future wrinkles, by quitting smoking.

Tip

Many cosmetic surgeries are available for under eye bags and lines. If the home techniques discussed here are not effective, consider talking to a dermatologist or plastic surgeon about your options. Most insurance companies will not cover cosmetic surgeries.