Dark circles and bags under the eyes become an aesthetic concern as soon as they appear. They can lead to changes in a person’s confidence because they impact the appearance of the sufferer because they are so obvious. Below, we will explore what dark circles and bags under the eyes are, why they appear and what innovative techniques can help combat them effectively.
What are dark circles under the eyes?
Dark circles under the eyes manifest themselves as a dark spot under the eyes, often in shades of blue, purple or brown, depending on the skin tone. These shadows are due to several factors, such as dilation of the blood vessels under the thin skin of the periocular area, hyperpigmentation or even the loss of volume that occurs with age, which accentuates the shadows under the eyes. They make the eyes look more sunken, giving an appearance of tiredness or sadness. Although they are not always associated with lack of rest, they give the impression of not having had enough sleep.
What are bags under the eyes?
Puffiness or puffiness under the eyes is called bags under the eyes. This occurs mainly due to the accumulation of liquids or fat in the area, something that can intensify with aging, fluid retention, sleep disorders or hormonal changes. Bags are more noticeable in older people due to loss of skin elasticity.
Causes of dark circles and bags under the eyes
Factors such as age and lack of sleep also affect the appearance of dark circles or bags under the eyes. However, dark circles under the eyes tend to be more related to pigmentation problems, lack of volume in the skin, or visible blood vessels. Lifestyle, stress, poor diet, alcohol and smoking can also make dark circles more visible. Bags under the eyes, on the other hand, are more associated with fluid retention, fat displacement or weakness of the muscles and tissues around the eye. Likewise, allergies and nasal congestion dilate the blood vessels under the eyes and cause puffiness. Some traditional solutions to treat dark circles and bags include:
- Eye creams: products formulated with ingredients such as caffeine, vitamin C, retinol and hyaluronic acid, which help reduce pigmentation and puffiness.
- Cold compresses: apply cold to the area to reduce dilation of the blood vessels and reduce inflammation.
- Sleep well: adequate rest is essential to reduce the appearance of dark circles and puffiness.
- Correction of eating habits: diets rich in antioxidants, iron and vitamin K can help improve blood circulation and reduce swelling.
To prevent the appearance of dark circles and bags, it is important to sleep, moisturize the skin, protect the eye area to avoid sun exposure and cold compresses can be used to reduce puffiness. It also helps to introduce in the diet the consumption of antioxidant foods.
Aesthetic techniques against dark circles under the eyes
The under-eye area is especially delicate, but with advances in aesthetic medicine, it is now possible to effectively combat dark circles and bags under the eyes. From laser and hyaluronic acid treatments to creams with state-of-the-art ingredients, there are solutions for all needs.
Laser treatments
The use of fractional or ablative lasers can help reduce pigmentation as well as fine wrinkles and sagging skin around the eyes. These devices stimulate collagen production, which improves skin firmness and minimizes the appearance of dark circles and bags.
Radiofrequency
Radiofrequency is a non-invasive treatment that uses energy to heat the deep layers of the skin, stimulating collagen production and promoting lymphatic drainage. This process helps tighten the skin under the eyes and reduce the appearance of bags. It is ideal for people experiencing sagging skin or fluid accumulation.
Hyaluronic acid fillers
When injected into the sunken areas under the eyes, hyaluronic acid plumps and smoothes the skin, making dark circles less visible. It also improves skin hydration, resulting in a fresher appearance.
Chemical peelings
Those containing glycolic acid or trichloroacetic acid are useful for treating surface pigmentation in the skin. By gently exfoliating the outer layer of the skin, dark circles under the eyes can be lightened and texture improved. This treatment should be performed under medical supervision to avoid irritation or side effects.
Creams and serums
The cosmetic industry has developed specific products containing innovative ingredients such as peptides, retinol, vitamin C and caffeine. These ingredients work to strengthen the skin under the eyes, improve blood circulation, reduce pigmentation and combat puffiness. Vitamin C serums and creams, for example, can brighten the skin, while caffeinated products help to deflate.
Carboxytherapy
Carboxytherapy is a lesser known but effective technique that involves the application of carbon dioxide (CO2) into the skin through small injections. This gas improves microcirculation and tissue oxygenation, which reduces pigmentation and improves the firmness of the skin under the eyes. It also promotes the production of collagen and elastin, which contributes to firmer and rejuvenated skin.
Microfocused ultrasound
This treatment uses high frequency ultrasound to act on the deeper layers of the skin, stimulating collagen production. It tightens and firms the skin, improving the appearance of bags and dark circles with natural and long-lasting results.
