Bags Under Eyes: Causes, Symptoms, and Proven Ways to Reduce Puffiness

Written by Charles Mattocks

Bags under the eyes refer to mild swelling or puffiness beneath the lower eyelids. This is a very common condition, particularly as people age. Over time, the tissues and muscles that support the eyelids naturally weaken. As this happens, the fat that normally cushions the eyes may shift downward, creating a puffy or swollen appearance. Fluid retention in the under-eye area can further worsen the condition.

In most cases, under-eye bags are cosmetic rather than medical and do not affect eye health. Many people see improvement with simple lifestyle changes and home remedies. However, persistent, painful, or sudden swelling may indicate an underlying medical issue and should be evaluated by a health care professional.

Symptoms of Bags Under the Eyes

Common Signs Include:

• Mild to moderate swelling beneath the eyes
• Sagging or loose skin of the lower eyelids
• Dark circles or shadowing under the eyes
• Tired or aged appearance

When to See a Health Care Provider

Although usually harmless, you should seek medical evaluation if under-eye swelling:

• Interferes with vision
• Causes pain, irritation, or pressure
• Is sudden, severe, or worsening
• Occurs with redness, rash, fever, or headaches

A health care provider may assess for conditions such as allergies, infections, thyroid disease, kidney disorders, or connective tissue conditions. Diagnostic testing—such as blood work or allergy testing—may be recommended depending on symptoms.

You may also be referred to a specialist, including:

• Ophthalmologist (eye doctor)
• Dermatologist
• Oculoplastic or cosmetic surgeon

Early evaluation helps rule out serious conditions and ensures appropriate treatment.

Causes of Bags Under the Eyes

The most common cause is age-related weakening of eyelid tissues, but several factors can contribute or worsen under-eye puffiness.

Common Causes Include:

• Aging and loss of skin elasticity
• Fluid retention (especially after salty foods or upon waking)
• Lack of sleep or poor sleep quality
• Allergies and nasal congestion
• Smoking
• Genetic predisposition
• Medical conditions such as:
  • Dermatitis
  • Thyroid eye disease
  • Kidney disease

Risk Factors

You may be more likely to develop bags under your eyes if you:

• Are over age 40
• Retain fluid easily
• Have chronic allergies or sinus issues
• Smoke or use tobacco
• Do not get adequate sleep
• Have a family history of under-eye puffiness
• Have underlying medical conditions

How to Reduce Bags Under the Eyes

Evidence-Based Home Remedies

Many cases of under-eye puffiness improve with simple, non-invasive strategies.

1. Use a Cool Compress

Applying a cool, damp washcloth to closed eyes for several minutes can help reduce swelling by constricting blood vessels.

2. Prioritize Quality Sleep

Most medical experts recommend 7–9 hours of sleep per night to support tissue repair and fluid balance.

3. Elevate Your Head While Sleeping

Using an extra pillow or wedge pillow can prevent fluid from pooling under the eyes overnight.

4. Reduce Salt and Late-Night Fluids

Lower sodium intake and limiting fluids before bedtime can reduce morning puffiness.

5. Quit Smoking

Smoking accelerates collagen breakdown, thinning the delicate skin under the eyes and making puffiness more noticeable.

6. Manage Allergies

Avoid known triggers and limit eye rubbing. Over-the-counter antihistamines such as loratadine (Claritin) or cetirizine (Zyrtec) may help—consult your doctor for guidance.

7. Improve Your Sleep Environment

Dust mites, pet dander, feather pillows, or certain skincare products may worsen allergic eye swelling.

8. Use Cosmetics Strategically

Hydrating eye creams and concealers may temporarily improve the appearance of puffiness and dark circles.

Lifestyle Habits That Can Worsen Under-Eye Puffiness

• Irregular or insufficient sleep
• High-sodium diets
• Dehydration
• Alcohol use
• Prolonged screen time
• Chronic stress
• Seasonal or environmental allergies

Even younger individuals can experience under-eye bags during periods of fatigue or lifestyle imbalance.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are bags under the eyes permanent?

Not always. Puffiness caused by fluid retention, allergies, or lifestyle factors often improves with treatment and habit changes.

Can dehydration cause bags under the eyes?

Yes. Dehydration may lead the body to retain fluid, which can worsen under-eye swelling.

Do eye creams really work?

Some eye creams can temporarily reduce puffiness by hydrating the skin, but results vary and are often short-term.

When is surgery considered?

Procedures such as blepharoplasty may be considered when under-eye bags are severe, persistent, and significantly affect quality of life.

Can young people get bags under their eyes?

Yes. Genetics, allergies, stress, and lack of sleep can cause under-eye puffiness at any age.