IF you're struggling with your sleep then it's likely to show on your face in the form of puffy under eyes.
While many people want to get rid of their dark circles, a new TikTok trend sees users deliberately applying makeup to give them the appearance of eye bags.
Experts have urged people not to exacerbate an under eye condition for any social media trend.
The trend started earlier this year with TikTokers embracing their bags, before eventually, some started using eyeshadow to create the look that for years people have tried to banish.
One TikToker said she embraced the look after trying hard to cover it up for years.
Optometrist Roshni Patel, optometrist for Lenstore said under eye bags can be common and are not something anyone should feel embarrassed about or feel they have to go to great lengths to conceal.
She explained: "Bags under the eyes are commonly associated with a lack of sleep, and appear as mild swelling or puffiness under the eyes, primarily as a result of fluid accumulation. They are predominantly a cosmetic concern and rarely ever are a sign of a serious medical condition.'
"Though the most recognisable and familiar is a lack of sleep, eye bags can result from a wide variety of different causes."
While it might just be that you're feeling a little bit tired, having bags under your eyes can also be a sign of other health issues.
1. A hereditary condition
Roshni said that unfortunately for some, puffy under eyes is not to do with their outside environment but is a hereditary condition.
she explained: "Autoimmune conditions are also known to cause puffy under eyes. If you do have a family history of puffy under eye bags, people do find cold compresses in the morning or before you go out can reduce the appearance temporarily."
2. Allergies
If you suffer from allergies then you'll know the feeling of stinging, puffy eyes.
"Pollen, dust and pet allergies are a common reason why people suffer with puffy eye bags.
"If you are not sure which is causing it, you can get an appointment with your GP who may refer you to an allergy clinic.
"This will help determine the cause and hopefully reduce your exposure to the allergen", Roshni said.
3. Fluid retention
We are constantly aging and Roshni said that fluid retention is one of those things that can also come with age.
"The skin under the eyelid becomes thinner and can result in puffy eyes.
"This can be especially more noticeable in the morning and can be prominent after having a salty meal, which causes greater fluid retention in the body", she said.
4. Smoking
Roshni said that smoking can contribute towards puffy eye bags as the nicotine found in cigarettes disrupts sleep patterns.
"This does not only lead to tiredness but also a build up on fluids as your body has not had a chance to fully rest and restore.
"Smoking also breaks down skin's elasticity and collagen production reduces which can cause the skin to look puffy or sag."
How to get rid of puffy eye bags
Here Roshni reveals her top tips to reduce the appearance of puffy eye bags.
- Get more sleep
- Use antihistamines to reduce the affect of the allergies
- Reduce stress – this can lead to poor sleep and tiredness
- Eat less salt as this encourages fluid retention
- Take your makeup off before bed as this can irritate your eyes
- Use a cold compress
- Reduce alcohol as dehydration can lead to dark circles
- Use sun cream as this will reduce the chances of your skin aging
- Include a retinol cream to help collagen deficiency
- Stay hydrated as dehydration can also cause eye bags
5. Sun exposure
While it might be drizzling outside, you still need to defend your skin.
Roshni said if your eyes are suffering from too much sun exposure, then the natural response is inflammatory – this is your body's way of trying to protect your eyes. Sun damage and excess heat commonly cause swelling and puffiness.
6. Eczema
For those living with eczema, the winter air can make puffy eyes considerably worse – this is due to the dry air, Roshni said.
"Atopic dermatitis can occur, causing irritation around the eyes and eyelid, this can lead to puffiness as the skin's natural defence mechanism is to protect your eyes", she added.
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