As we age, the tissue structures and muscles supporting our eyelids weaken. The skin can begin to sag and the space below your eyes can accumulate fluid, making the under-eye area appear puffy or swollen.
There are, however, a number of things you can do to reduce the appearance of bags or puffiness under your eyes. Here are some of the best things to try:
1. Cut down on salt
Water will travel from parts of your body that are low in sodium to those that have the most, with the area around your eyes being a prime example. A salt-heavy diet can result in extra puffiness the next day. Also, a diet high in sodium can also cause issues with your sleep, which can often exacerbate the problem.
2. Change your sleeping position
Gravity can be one of the reasons that fluid collects under your eyes. If you sleep on your stomach or on your side, try sleeping on your back to have gravity work in your favour when it comes to your eyes.
3. Remove make-up before bed
After a late night it can be tempting to climb straight between the covers, but make sure to take that extra time to remove all your make-up. The foreign material on your face can cause your eyes to water overnight, contributing to puffiness by morning.
4. Cut down on alcohol
Alcohol can pull the water from your skin. Once you weaken the delicate area around your eyes, it is more likely to sink into a pouch. One or two drinks won’t have much of an impact, but if you are going to have a bigger session, make sure to drink plenty of water and consider applying moisturiser around your eyes before going to bed.
5. Slip, slop, slap
UV radiation can also make the skin under your eyes sag. If you are out in the harsh Australian sun, slip on some sunglasses, slop on some sunscreen and slap on a hat.
6. Hide the problem
If the dark circles remain after trying a number of things to remove them, try a concealer to cover up the problem. Find one that matches your skin tone and apply by lightly patting it on, rather than rubbing it in.
Read more at WebMD
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What poor sleep does to your body
Five night-time habits for supple skin
Are you getting enough sleep?
