Under-eye bags can often be caused by lack of sleep, stress, dietary habits, and genetic factors. When they become pronounced during facial expressions, they can be aesthetically unappealing and cause a tired appearance. While this condition is often thought to be temporary, it can become permanent for some people and affect their quality of life.
Why Do Under-Eye Bags Form?
Genetic predisposition is one of the most determining factors in the formation of under-eye bags. Individuals with a family history of under-eye bags may experience this issue at an earlier age. Besides genetic predisposition, there are other influences as well:
-
Aging
As age progresses, the skin gradually loses its elasticity. This leads to sagging of the skin and the loosening and bagging of fat tissue.
-
Sleep irregularity
Adequate sleep is essential for both health and skin beauty. Insufficient or poor quality sleep can affect the body's rest and recovery processes. This especially results in the formation of edema around the sensitive eye area, leading to under-eye bags.
-
Dietary habits
Dietary habits also play a role in the formation of under-eye bags. Unhealthy lifestyles such as alcohol consumption, excessive salt intake, and smoking can increase water retention, causing the skin to swell and consequently forming under-eye bags.
-
Allergic reactions
Allergic reactions can cause sensitivity around the eyes and swelling, paving the way for the appearance of under-eye bags.
-
Lymphatic circulation disorders
The lymphatic system ensures the circulation of fluids in the body. If this system doesn't function properly, it can lead to fluid accumulation and edema formation. This may trigger the problem of bagging under the eyes.
Why Do Under-Eye Bags Become More Pronounced When You Smile?
The prominence of under-eye bags during facial expressions relates to how facial muscles work and skin structure. The muscles in our face allow us to make various expressions. During laughter, these muscles activate, causing the skin in some areas to contract and loosen.
The thin and sensitive skin around the eyes is affected by these changes that occur with smiling. If you have under-eye bags, this might become more pronounced when you smile.
With aging, the skin loses its elasticity and fails to support the underlying fat tissue. During smiling, due to the movement of our facial muscles, these bags become more noticeable.
It's also known that factors like insomnia and stress can increase the appearance of under-eye bags. If your under-eye bags become more pronounced when you smile, making some lifestyle changes may reduce their impact.
How to Reduce Under-Eye Bags That Appear When Smiling?
If your under-eye bags only become noticeable when you change your facial expressions and disappear when at rest, this may be due to weakened skin elasticity. The following methods can provide immediate relief and help improve the appearance of under-eye bags in the long term:
Short-Term Solutions
-
Applications with reduced temperature like ice packs or cold tea bags can reduce swelling and provide quick relief to the skin.
-
Special eye creams containing caffeine, peptides, and Vitamin C can accelerate blood circulation in the skin and thus reduce puffiness.
-
Massage techniques with anti-inflammatory effects can help relieve tissue congestion under the eyes.
Lifestyle Changes
-
Regular and quality sleep every day ensures efficient function of all bodily systems and can prevent the formation of under-eye bags.
-
Limiting salt and alcohol intake prevents water retention in the body, reducing the formation of under-eye bags.
-
Drinking plenty of water keeps the skin hydrated. Additionally, using sunblock slows aging in the skin and prevents loss of elasticity.
-
Rubbing the eyes irritates the sensitive skin under the eyes and can cause bagging.
Medical Aesthetic Applications
-
Light filler: This procedure, correcting slight volume losses, can reduce the appearance of under-eye bags.
-
Laser treatments: Increases collagen production under the skin, tightens and rejuvenates the under-eye tissue.
-
Mesotherapy and PRP: These treatments support cell renewal, improve blood circulation, and thereby reduce under-eye bags.
When Is Under-Eye Bag Surgery Necessary?
Signs of aging around the eyes become prominent with under-eye bags that start to show even when the facial expression is in a neutral position. This can also raise aesthetic concerns. Initially, medical methods can be used to address this issue; however, if the results from these treatments are not satisfactory and the under-eye bags become more pronounced, surgical intervention can be considered.
Under-eye bag surgery is medically known as lower blepharoplasty. This procedure involves the careful removal of excess fat and skin tissue. Blepharoplasty is performed under local anesthesia to ensure the patient's comfort. Lower blepharoplasty aims to achieve a permanent and natural look.
During the post-operative recovery period, patients can return to daily life activities. They can continue their routines, such as exercising, going to work, or participating in social activities. Adhering particularly to the doctor's advice during this period will speed up the recovery process.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do under-eye bags increase with age?
Yes. As the skin ages, it loses its elasticity and muscle tissue weakens. This process causes the fats under the eyes to push outward, increasing bagging.
Can under-eye bags that become more noticeable when smiling become permanent?
Initially, bags that only appear during facial expressions can become permanent over time. This risk increases especially as skin elasticity decreases. Early intervention can significantly improve their appearance.
What can be done at home for under-eye bags?
Cold tea bags, cucumber slices, and caffeinated eye creams can provide short-term relief. However, for a permanent solution, regular sleep, healthy eating, and professional evaluation are important.
Which vitamin deficiency causes under-eye bags?
Under-eye bags are not directly caused by a single vitamin deficiency, but insufficient intake of certain vitamins can negatively affect eye area health. Deficiencies in Vitamin C and Vitamin B12 can increase the risk of bagging or darkening under the eyes. Balanced nutrition and the use of supplements when necessary can help reduce complaints.