Dark circles and under-eye bags appear for many reasons, and are among the most common problems affecting the skin around the eyes. They affect both men and women equally.

Under-eye bags are a normal part of ageing; however they can also be caused by lack of sleep, allergies, and habits that promote water retention. They are a cosmetic concern that can make people look tired or restless. There are quick remedies, long-term treatments, and permanent cosmetic solutions available to reduce the appearance of bags under the eyes.

Treat your allergies. Under-eye bags are often the result of allergies that cause swelling in the face. Because the skin around the eyes is thinner than the rest of the body, fluids tend to accumulate there, causing the skin to become puffy. Consult your doctor and get treatment for your allergies. This will noticeably reduce the bags under your eyes.

Change your sleeping position. People who sleep face down or on their side cause fluid to accumulate under the eyes during the night. In fact, those who sleep on their side may notice that the eye on the side they were sleeping is puffier than the other.

• Gradually try sleeping face up more often, rather than face down or on your side. It’s not easy to change your sleeping position, so you may have some difficulty getting used to it at the
  beginning.
• Place a second pillow under your head if you sleep face up. If your head is at a slight angle, the fluids will not accumulate under the eyes during night.

Change your eating habits. It’s okay to indulge in a high sodium meal with some cocktails from time to time, but if eating salty food and drinking alcohol is a daily habit, it can have long-term effects on your under-eye bags.

Years of water retention in the face area can lead to permanent, saggy under-eye bags.

Next week: Under-eye bags’ Medical and Cosmetic treatments