Bags under the eyes are a common cosmetic concern for many people. While aging is the most common cause of under-eye bags, factors like genetics, allergies, and lack of sleep can also contribute to their development. Some vitamins and nutrients have been studied for their potential effects on improving the appearance of under-eye bags when used topically or taken orally as supplements.
What causes bags under the eyes?
Some of the most common causes of under-eye bags include:
- Aging – As we get older, the tissues around the eyes weaken and become thinner. This allows fat deposits to move forward and manifest as puffy bags under the eyes.
- Genetics – Some people are just prone to developing bags due to hereditary factors like bone structure and skin elasticity.
- Allergies – Seasonal allergies can cause fluid buildup and inflammation around the eyes.
- Sleep deprivation – Lack of sleep can lead to fluid retention and skin discoloration under the eyes.
- Sun exposure – UV radiation can damage and thin the skin around the eyes over time, contributing to bag formation.
- Smoking – Chemicals from cigarette smoke can degrade collagen and elastin in the skin, leading to sagging and bags.
- Sodium-rich diet – Excess dietary sodium can lead to water retention, which exacerbates under-eye puffiness.
Vitamins and nutrients for reducing eye bags
Some vitamins and nutrients that may help improve the appearance of under-eye bags include:
Vitamin C
Vitamin C is an antioxidant that can help build collagen, strengthen blood vessels, and reduce inflammation. It may help improve the appearance of dark circles when applied topically. Food sources of vitamin C include citrus fruits, peppers, broccoli, and strawberries.
Vitamin E
Vitamin E is another antioxidant that may minimize puffiness by reducing inflammation. When applied as an oil, it may hydrate the delicate skin around the eyes. Dietary sources include nuts, seeds, spinach, and olive oil.
Vitamin K
Vitamin K helps with blood clotting and circulation. Some research suggests that deficiencies may contribute to dark undereye circles and bruise-like discoloration. It’s found in leafy greens, soybeans, dairy, and fermented foods.
Retinol
Retinol or vitamin A derivatives can minimize the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, as well as boost collagen production. This may help address pigmentation issues that highlight undereye bags. Retinol creams are available both over-the-counter and by prescription.
Caffeine
When applied topically, caffeine may help constrict blood vessels, reducing puffiness and swelling under the eyes. Green tea bags can be chilled and placed over closed eyes to provide a dose of caffeine to the area.
Collagen
Collagen supplements containing hydrolyzed collagen peptides claim to improve skin elasticity and hydration. By boosting collagen, supplements may help strengthen the delicate skin around the eyes and minimize sagging over time.
Hyaluronic acid
Hyaluronic acid is a powerful humectant that can hold up to 1000x its weight in water. It helps hydrate and plump the skin, smoothing out fine lines. Under-eye creams with hyaluronic acid may reduce the hollow, sunken appearance of eye bags.
Home remedies for eye bags
In addition to vitamins and supplements, some home remedies may help temporarily reduce the appearance of eye bags. These include:
- Cold compresses – Applying something cold, like chilled cucumber slices, tea bags, or spoons to your eyes can constrict blood vessels and reduce swelling and puffiness.
- Cold milk – The lactic acid in milk can act as a mild astringent, while the cool temperature also soothes inflammation.
- Potato slices – Potatoes have catecholase enzymes that may help lighten dark undereye circles. Plus the starch constricts blood vessels, reducing puffiness.
- Face massage – Gentle massage using your ring fingers can help stimulate blood and lymph circulation around tired eyes.
- Tea bags – Caffeinated, chilled tea bags can reduce fluid retention thanks to caffeine while the cool temperature calms swelling.
- Rose water – This mild astringent can help tighten the skin and provide anti-inflammatory benefits.
The best vitamins for getting rid of eye bags
When it comes to dietary supplements for reducing eye bags, some of the most beneficial vitamins and antioxidants include:
Vitamin C
Vitamin C is involved in collagen production, blood vessel strength, and tissue repair. It’s considered one of the best vitamins for overall skin health and reducing inflammation. Aim for at least 75-90 mg per day.
Vitamin E
Vitamin E improves moisture and elasticity in skin while acting as an antioxidant to prevent damage from UV rays and pollution. Most people need about 15 mg of vitamin E daily to help keep skin smooth and youthful looking.
Vitamin K
By improving blood circulation, vitamin K helps minimize bruise-like discoloration under the eyes. Cooked leafy greens are the best source. Aim for at least 90-120 mcg daily.
Vitamin B12
A B12 deficiency can contribute to hyperpigmentation and redness under the eyes. Make sure to get 2.4 mcg daily from eggs, dairy, poultry, and fish.
Iron
Iron carries oxygen through the bloodstream so skin cells can function properly. Low levels may lead to dark circles. Consume recommended 18 mg per day for women and 8 mg for men.
Zinc
Zinc supports collagen production and is needed for healthy skin cell turnover. Oysters contain more zinc than any other food. Shoot for at least 8-11 mg daily.
Best eye creams with vitamins
Some of the top-rated eye creams that harness the power of vitamins to tackle eye bags and dark circles include:
| Eye Cream | Key Vitamins | Benefits |
|---|---|---|
| CeraVe Eye Repair Cream | Niacinamide (B3) | Improves moisture retention and barrier function |
| Neutrogena Rapid Wrinkle Repair | Retinol (A), Vitamin C | Fades dark circles while smoothing fine lines |
| First Aid Beauty Eye Duty Triple Remedy | Vitamins C, E | Brightens, hydrates, and protects via antioxidants |
| Organys Spark Eye Cream | Vitamin C, Vitamin E | Boosts collagen and hydration for revived look |
| Olay Ultimate Eye Cream | Niacinamide (B3), Vitamin B3 | Improves elasticity and evens skin tone |
| RoC Multi Correxion Revive + Brighten Eye Cream | Vitamin C | Radiance-restoring and retexturizing |
Other ways to help get rid of eye bags
While topical creams and vitamins can help, other lifestyle measures can also make a difference in battling under-eye bags, such as:
- Getting enough sleep – Aim for 7-9 hours per night to allow skin to fully rest and rejuvenate.
- Managing allergies – Take medications as needed to prevent sinus issues and inflammation from allergies.
- Quitting smoking – Smoking damages collagen and elastin while causing vascular issues.
- Elevating your head – Use an extra pillow to prevent fluid from pooling around tired eyes.
- Watching salt intake – Excess sodium leads to water retention and puffiness.
- Staying hydrated – Drink plenty of water to counteract dehydration and flushing toxins.
- Using sunscreen – UV protection prevents further skin damage around the eyes.
When to see a doctor
In some cases, persistent or severe under-eye bags may require medical treatment. See an oculoplastic surgeon or dermatologist if bags:
- Develop suddenly or seem excessively swollen
- Worsen despite home treatments and lifestyle changes
- Are severely asymmetric, only appearing under one eye
- Obstruct vision or peripheral vision
- Are associated with other symptoms like pain, redness, or excessive tearing
Severe under-eye bags may be a sign of thyroid disease, kidney or liver problems, or allergies. A doctor can help determine if an underlying condition is contributing to the problem.
Medical treatments for eye bags
For stubborn under-eye bags that don’t respond to more conservative measures, medical treatments may include:
- Topical prescription retinoids – Stronger vitamin A/retinol creams can minimize pigmentation and strengthen thin under-eye skin over time.
- Chemical peels – Light chemical peels containing glycolic or salicylic acid can remove dead skin cells and stimulate collagen growth.
- Laser resurfacing – Lasers like Fraxel can tighten and brighten the delicate skin around the eyes.
- Dermal fillers – Hyaluronic acid fillers like Restylane can plump hollows and minimize shadowing and sunken eyes.
- Lower eyelid surgery (blepharoplasty) – Excess fat, muscle, and skin can be surgically trimmed and tightened for dramatically reduced eye bags.
Are eye bag removal creams effective?
Non-invasive eye creams can help reduce the appearance of under eye bags through the following mechanisms:
- Anti-inflammatory ingredients like vitamin C and niacinamide calm puffiness and swelling.
- Peptides and retinoids strengthen thin, fragile under-eye skin over time.
- Light reflectors and pigment-faders brighten and even skin tone to minimize dark circles.
- Caffeine and cold therapy constricts blood vessels for immediate tightening effects.
- Hydrators like hyaluronic acid, ceramides, and antioxidants replenish moisture.
However, eye creams cannot get rid of excess fat or redundant skin. For severe eye bags, in-office treatments or blepharoplasty surgery may be required. But diligently using correct eye creams can help improve the appearance of mild to moderate under-eye bags.
Conclusion
Using topical eye creams with vitamins C, E, K can help improve the appearance of under eye bags and dark circles. Getting enough sleep, managing allergies, staying hydrated, and elevating your head at night can also prevent fluid from pooling around tired eyes. For severe, stubborn bags, visiting a dermatologist or oculoplastic surgeon to discuss cosmetic procedures may be warranted. But combining lifestyle measures with an effective eye cream containing vitamins and antioxidants is a good first step towards banishing pesky bags under the eyes.