The skin under your eyes is thinner than other parts of your body. When fluid accumulates under thin skin, swelling occurs and blood vessels become more apparent. This can make your eyes look dark and puffy. Irritation or discomfort may also accompany the swelling. Also known as allergic shiners, dark circles and under eye bags require therapeutic remedies and lifestyle changes in order to resolve, according to the University of Michigan Health Systems.
Step 1
Avoid the things that trigger your allergies. For instance, if pet dander causes your eyes to darken and swell, you may want to consider hairless breeds that will not trigger your allergies.
Step 2
Prop your head up when you sleep. A few extra pillows under your head can reduce the accumulation of fluid under your eyes, thus relieving darkness and swelling.
Step 3
Dampen a clean washcloth with cold water. Apply the washcloth to your eyes for 10 minutes and remove. Wait 10 minutes after removing the washcloth. If your symptoms do not resolve within the 10 minutes, apply the cold compress again for an additional 10 minutes. Repeat the process, removing and replacing the washcloth in 10 minute intervals, until you see signs of relief.
Step 4
Drink at least eight 8 oz. glasses of water each day. Proper hydration will reduce water retention in your body, including the skin around your eyes.
Step 5
Talk to your doctor about incorporating an antihistamine or allergy medication into your daily routine if you suspect that allergies are causing your dark under eyes and bags. He can make a diagnosis to determine if your eye symptoms are allergy related.
Tips and Warnings
- While it is a common belief that not enough sleep causes dark eyes and swelling, Health Services at Columbia University explains that this is not the case. In fact, it is not when you sleep, but how you sleep that can cause dark, puffy eyes.
- Do not take over-the-counter or prescription medications without speaking to your doctor first. People with heart problems or thyroid disease may suffer adverse reactions when taking antihistamines or allergy medications.
Things You'll Need
- Extra pillows
- Washcloth
- Water
- Antihistamine or allergy medication
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