iBags underneath the eyes occur when fluid pools underneath the eyes, or when the skin on the lower eyelid sags. Bags under the eyes may be caused by allergies, diet, sleeping flat on your back, age or heredity. According to the Mayo Clinic, in most cases, bags underneath the eyes do not signify a serious disease and do not require the care of a doctor.
Reduce Sodium
High levels of sodium in the blood will tell the body to retain water, which makes eyes look puffy. Although going easy on the salt shaker may help you reduce your levels, sodium may also be present in foods you didn’t even know had salt in them. Sodium hides in fast food, salty snacks and canned soup. Increase your water intake and eat fewer foods that contain salt to help keep your eyes looking youthful and wide awake.
Change Your Sleep Habits
Sleeping flat on your back can cause bags under the eyes, says the Mayo Clinic. While sleeping, fluid may pool underneath the eyes. To help encourage drainage, Health Services at Columbia recommends propping the head up. Use an extra pillow or rolled-up towel to elevate your head. Getting too little sleep may cause bags underneath the eyes as well. Most adults need between seven and eight hours of sleep per night, says the Mayo Clinic.
Be Prepared
Puffy eyes may be most noticeable in the morning, right after waking up. To temporarily deflate them, place two spoons in the freezer overnight. The next morning, place the curved area of the spoons over each eye for up to 10 minutes. If you do not have spoons available, rinse a washcloth in cold water, then place the washcloth over your face for several minutes. Repeat as necessary throughout the day to help reduce puffy eyes.
