Under-eye bags, characterized by puffiness or mild swelling under the eyes, may occur as a result of natural aging or when your body retains fluid. Bags caused by aging--when the skin becomes less elastic and fat tissue gives a swollen appearance--can be concealed with makeup but not completely removed without cosmetic surgery. You can get rid of under-eye bags caused by fluid retention, however, using several natural remedies.
Tea Bags
Black tea contains natural astringents known as tannins, which reduce puffiness and pull the skin taut when applied topically. Bridget Doherty, author of "Growing Younger: Age-Defying Secrets for Women," recommends applying a tea bag compress to help reduce under-eye bags. Steep two regular tea bags in hot water for 10 minutes, remove them and wring out any excess moisture. Wrap the moist tea bags in a paper towel to prevent them from staining your skin, and then place the compress over your eyes for two to five minutes while lying in a comfortable position. Repeat daily or anytime you need to get rid of bags under your eyes.
Potatoes
Potatoes contain enzymes that help reduce dark circles and puffiness under the eyes. In her book "Naturally Skinsational: Rejuvenating Skin Care Recipes," Sue Dolan suggests getting rid of under-eye bags by applying a mixture of potato, yogurt and sea salt. Finely grate a raw potato until you have about 1/4 cup of potato shreds. Combine with 1 tsp. sea salt and 2 tbsp. plain yogurt. Chill the mixture for at least one hour in the refrigerator before using. Pat the mixture onto your face evenly, paying special attention to the delicate under-eye area. Leave on for at least 30 minutes, and then rinse well with warm water. Repeat daily as needed.
Saltwater
Salt combined with warm water may help reduce under-eye bags, according to Roshni Dayal in her book "Natural Beauty Secrets from India." Try adding 1/4 tsp. kitchen salt to 4 tbsp. warm water, and then soaking two cotton pads in the mixture. Place the pads over your closed eyes and leave them in place for five to seven minutes, or until the cotton pads have cooled. Remove the pads, soak them again in warm salt water, and place them back over your eyes for an additional five to seven minutes. Repeat once a day, or as needed.
Dandelion
A natural diuretic, dandelion helps the body eliminate excess fluids, which may help reduce under-eye bags caused by fluid retention. In the book "Natural Remedies: Nondrug Healing Strategies that Work Best," the Prevention Health Books staff recommends drinking a cup of dandelion leaf tea or taking 1/2 tsp. of dandelion leaf tincture three times a day to help get rid of under-eye bags. Individuals taking prescription or other herbal diuretics, however, should not consume dandelion tea, as it may cause dehydration. If you have gallbladder disease, do not take dandelion without your doctor's permission.
References
- MayoClinic.com: Bags Under Eyes
- "Growing Younger: Age-Defying Secrets for Women"; Bridget Doherty, Julia VanTine; 2001
- "Naturally Skinsational: Rejuvenating Skin Care Recipes"; Sue Dolan; 2009
- "Natural Beauty Secrets from India"; Roshni Dayal; 2009
- "Natural Remedies: Nondrug Healing Strategies that Work Best"; Prevention Health Books Staff; 1999
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