7 Things That Can Cause Under Eye Puffiness and Dark Circles

Under-eye circles and puffiness are common a cosmetic concern for many people. Under-eye circles are dark, shadowy areas that form beneath the eyes, while puffiness refers to the swelling or enlargement of the area around the eyes. There are several factors that can contribute to the development of under-eye circles and puffiness. Lack of sleep, dehydration, and allergies can all cause the skin around the eyes to appear dark or swollen. Age can also be a factor, as the skin loses elasticity and becomes thinner, making blood vessels more visible. Fortunately, there are several things you can do to reduce the appearance of under-eye circles and puffiness, and the first step is understanding the root cause behind the problem. Read on to learn about seven things that can cause undereye puffiness and dark circles.

 

You may have kidney issues

The kidneys are responsible for filtering waste and excess fluid from the body, and if they are not functioning properly, fluid can accumulate in the body, including around the eyes. This can cause puffiness and dark circles. Further testing or treatment may be necessary to address kidney problems, so it is important to speak to your doctor.

Your hormones may be imbalanced

Hormones play a significant role in regulating the body’s fluid balance, and any disruption in this balance can lead to the accumulation of fluid under the eyes, resulting in puffiness and dark circles. Hormonal imbalances can occur due to a variety of reasons, including stress, pregnancy, menopause, and thyroid disorders. When the body undergoes hormonal changes, it can lead to alterations in the skin’s structure and texture, including the delicate skin under the eyes.

You may have unknown food allergies

When a person consumes a food they are allergic to, it triggers an inflammatory response in the body. This inflammation can cause blood vessels to dilate, leading to increased blood flow and pooling under the eyes, resulting in dark circles. In addition, certain foods can also cause fluid retention and puffiness, which can exacerbate the appearance of dark circles.

You could have a build up of toxins

Toxins can accumulate in the liver and lymphatic system, leading to inflammation and puffiness in the undereye area. This can create the appearance of dark circles or bags under the eyes. To address this, it may be helpful to increase water intake, get more restful sleep, and reduce exposure to allergens. Additionally, eating a healthy diet and engaging in regular exercise can support overall detoxification and promote healthy skin.

You could have dermatitis

Dermatitis is a common skin condition that can cause redness, itching, and inflammation. The skin around the eyes is particularly sensitive, and dermatitis in this area can lead to undereye puffiness. This is because the inflammation caused by dermatitis can result in fluid retention, leading to swelling and puffiness under the eyes. There are several different types of dermatitis that can affect the skin around the eyes, including atopic dermatitis, contact dermatitis, and seborrheic dermatitis. It is important to identify the specific type of dermatitis you are experiencing in order to determine the most effective treatment.

You could be retaining too much fluid

Under-eye puffiness is a common symptom of fluid retention caused by a high-salt diet. To reduce under-eye puffiness caused by fluid retention, the first step is to reduce salt intake. This can be achieved by avoiding processed and packaged foods, which are usually high in sodium. Instead, opt for fresh fruits and vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains. Additionally, drinking plenty of water can help flush out excess sodium and reduce fluid retention.

You do not sleep enough

Undereye puffiness is a common sign of sleep deprivation. When you don’t get enough sleep, your body produces more cortisol, the stress hormone, which causes increased inflammation. This inflammation can lead to fluid retention, particularly around the eyes, resulting in puffiness. Additionally, lack of sleep can cause blood vessels under the skin to dilate, making the skin appear darker and exacerbating the appearance of undereye bags. The most important step is to prioritize getting enough sleep. Aim for 7-9 hours of sleep each night, and establish a consistent sleep routine to help regulate your body’s natural sleep-wake cycle. Additionally, you can try applying a cold compress to the affected area to reduce inflammation and constrict blood vessels.