A: “Bags” may occur when fluid accumulates in the area under the eyes, where the skin is thinner than anywhere else on the body. With advancing age (and a little help from heredity) this puffiness may become more prominent or even permanent, since your skin gradually loses its elasticity and may begin to sag.
Other factors may be involved as well. In some people permanent bags may be due to a hereditary condition in which the fat that cushions the eyeball protrudes through weakened muscles. Certain medications, such as cortisone, and allergic reactions (to cosmetics, smoking or air pollution, for instance) may aggravate matters. Generally, when your eyes are tired or irritated, accumulated fluids may make eyes puffy. Thyroid, kidney, or heart disease can all increase fluid retention, which may be particularly noticeable around the eyes. Not to be overlooked is the force of gravity; when you sleep, especially on your stomach or otherwise lie flat for a while, extra fluid may pool in the upper and lower lids.
Besides avoiding cosmetics that worsen the problem there isn’t much you can do about the puffiness. Sleeping with your head elevated on an extra pillow may be enough to allow gravity to drain the eye area. In severe cases the Sagging tissue or excess fat under the eyes can be removed surgically. The operation is frequently performed on an outpatient basis.
Dark circles under the eyes also tend to be a family trait and to worsen with age. They seldom are a symptom of an underlying medical problem. What appears as a bluish black tint is the blood passing through veins just below the surface of the skin. which as we’ve said, is thin around the eyes. These rings may be darker when your eyes are tired or during menstruation or pregnancy. If you wish you can cover dark circles with special cosmetic concealers, but regular makeup bases will often do the trick.
Article extracted from this publication >> June 30, 1989
