Causes of Baggy Eyes

When it comes to maintaining a fresh, bright, youthful-looking face, baggy eyes are one of the most common challenges people face. Baggy eyes, characterized by puffiness and darkness around the upper and lower eyelids, occurs when the fat around the eyeball bulges past the rim of the eye socket bone, a phenomenon known as pseudoherniation of orbital fat. Baggy eyes are also the result of dermatocholasis in which excess skin accumulates on the eyelids. Several factors contribute to the appearance of baggy eyes.

Sleep deprivation

Baggy eyes are commonly seen in people who are not getting enough sleep. This is because sleep deprivation elevates a person’s blood pressure leading to constriction of the blood capillaries beneath the eyes. When the blood capillaries constrict they retain fluid which causes puffiness.

Allergies

Baggy eyes can be a symptom of an allergic reaction. Makeup, pollens, soaps, animals, hair products, or certain foods are just some of the allergens known to cause baggy eyes in susceptible individuals. Allergic reactions can cause the capillaries around the eyes to leak leading to fluid retention which manifests as puffiness.

Age

Baggy eyes are more common in older people who have thinner, less elastic skin. As the skin around the eyelids becomes more elastic it sags more. Also, more fat from around the eyeballs migrates to the area under the eyes causing puffiness.

Certain Illnesses

Baggy eyes can indicate the presence of a serious medical condition. Certain thyroid disorders and nephritic syndrome can cause fluid retention throughout the body, including around the eyes. Baggy eyes are also a symptom of periorbital cellulitis and chronic sinusitis.

Genetics

It has been observed that baggy eyes tend to run in families. Hyperpigmentation beneath the eyes or protruding orbital fat pads are often genetic traits that cause baggy eyes in individuals regardless of age, health status, or sleeping habits.

Depending on the source of the problem, baggy eyes can be treated effectively using seasonal allergy medication, anti-aging skin products, or by improving one’s sleeping habits. Blepharoplasty, or surgical removal of excess fat and skin around the eye, is also an option for improving or eliminating baggy eyes.

Post provided by Benjamin Stong MD

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