The excess water expands the tissues, causing them to feel and appear puffy. Another common cause of dark under-eye circles is low iron and/or B12. This deficiency can result in poor oxygenation of bodily tissues and the effects of this are shown mostly under the eyes where pronounced, bluish veins are more visible.
Vitamin deficiencies, including vitamin B12, E, K and D, have been associated with dark circles.
According to Rouleau, the hero ingredient, vitamin C, works to reduce the appearance of dark circles and puffiness.
Bags under eyes are caused when the tissue structures and muscles supporting your eyelids weaken. The skin may start to sag, and fat that's usually around the eye can move into the area below your eyes. Also, the space below your eyes can gather fluid, making the area look puffy or swollen.
Puffy eyes typically are simply due to aging, genetics, and possibly lack of sleep. But sometimes, swollen eyelids are mistaken for puffy eyes. When swollen eyelids occur suddenly, it might be a sign you have an underlying medical problem.
Give Your Eyes a Cooldown
A cold compress can ease puffiness. Try chilled spoons, cucumber slices, or tea bags.
Even better, drink water instead, which can help smooth the skin beneath your eyes. Improve your diet—Try to lower your salt intake. It may help reduce the puffiness under your eyes, and it's better for your heart.
Magnesium is a type of mineral called an electrolyte, which helps balance your sodium levels. Studies show they may lower inflammation as well as puffiness in people who retain a lot of water. A common dosage is 200-400 milligrams a day.
Anti-ageing expert Dr Mark Binette said: ''More science is coming out linking the lack of Vitamin D and K as one of the causes that plagues us with dark circles and puffy eyes; especially as it relates to fatigue and immune related issues.
With the amazing anticoagulation benefits of Vitamin K, it is effective in treating this area and minimizing the appearance of dark circles and puffy eyes.
According to Rashidi, using vitamin E oil and almond oil together on the under-eye area can help to lighten dark circles and reduce under-eye puffiness, due to the combination of anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that these two oils contain.
Try a Gentle Double Tap or Facial Massage Technique
Tobia says, "Rubbing cream or moisturizer on your eyes can cause it to be puffy. Instead, try lightly tapping the area of your eyes and massaging the pressure points to encourage lymphatic drainage."
Edema (serious).
Edema fluid first appears as swelling of the feet due to gravity. Edema fluid also occurs around both eyes after lying down. It's caused by kidney, heart or liver failure.
Watermelon. A powerful rehydrator, watermelon is made up of approximately 92 per cent water. It contains many antioxidants that support eye health, including betacarotene. Key nutrients: Betacarotene, lycopene, fifibre, vitamin B1, B6, and C, potassium, magnesium.
Swelling and puffiness around the eyes after sleeping or crying is perfectly normal. It is harmless and usually goes away on its own. Anyone who has swollen eyes and other symptoms of a health issue in the area, such as pain, discharge, or visual disturbances, should receive medical attention.
Anemia or an iron deficiency can result in dark eye circles as not enough oxygen reaches the body's tissues. Liver problems can also be a cause. Any medications that make blood vessels dilate can cause eye circles to darken as well.
If you pull your lower eyelid down, the colour of the lining should be a rich, red colour. If it is a very pale peach colour or yellow, this may indicate that you have iron deficiency or iron deficiency anaemia.
If you pull your lower eyelid down while looking in a mirror, the inside layer should be a vibrant red color. If it's a very pale pink or yellow, you may have iron deficiency.
Thyroid eye disease is a condition in which the eye muscles, eyelids, tear glands and fatty tissues behind the eye become inflamed. This can cause the eyes and eyelids to become red, swollen and uncomfortable and the eyes can be pushed forward ('staring' or 'bulging' eyes).