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Bags under the eyes are a common concern for many men, often leading to a tired and aged appearance. While there are numerous treatments available, many prefer natural methods to address this issue. This article explores how to get rid of bags under eyes male with ten proven ways to reduce and eliminate them naturally.
Key Takeaways
- Cold compresses can help reduce swelling and improve blood circulation under the eyes.
- Tea bags, particularly those with caffeine, can reduce puffiness and dark circles.
- Applying cucumber slices can hydrate and soothe the skin around the eyes.
- Using a neti pot can alleviate sinus-related puffiness and congestion.
- Staying hydrated by drinking plenty of water can prevent fluid retention and reduce under-eye bags.
Cold Compress
Applying a cold compress to the under-eye area can constrict blood vessels and reduce inflammation. This method is simple and can be done using materials you already have at home. Some DIY options include a:
- chilled teaspoon
- cool cucumber
- wet washcloth
- bag of frozen veggies
Before applying, wrap your compress with a soft cloth to protect your skin from getting too cold. You only need to use the compress for a few minutes to see results.
A cold compress can ease puffiness and provide temporary relief from dark circles. The cool temperature is what makes this home remedy effective.
Tea Bags
Tea isn’t just for sipping. You can use caffeinated tea bags under your eyes to help with dark circles and bags. The caffeine in the tea contains powerful antioxidants and may increase blood flow to your skin. It’s also said to protect against UV rays and potentially slow aging.
To do this:
- Steep two tea bags for 3 to 5 minutes.
- Let the tea bags chill in the refrigerator for 20 minutes.
- Then, squeeze out the extra liquid and apply it to your under-eye area.
- Leave the tea bags on for 15 to 30 minutes.
Green tea, in particular, has been touted by researchers for its potential anti-inflammatory effects, as shown in a 2020 review of research.
Using tea bags is a simple and natural method for those wondering how to get rid of bags under eyes male or how to get rid of dark circles under eyes men. This method is also effective for those looking for how to get rid of eye bags men or how to remove bags under eyes male.
Cucumbers
Putting cucumbers over your eyes to treat dark circles and puffy skin is probably one of the best-known beauty remedies. Cucumbers are high in vitamin K, which improves blood circulation to banish dark lines. The green vegetable’s hydration boost is also soothing for under-eye skin.
How to Use Cucumbers for Puffy Eyes
- Slice a fresh cucumber into thick pieces.
- Chill the slices in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes.
- Place the chilled slices over your closed eyes for 10-15 minutes.
- Repeat daily for best results.
The cool temperature of the cucumber slices helps reduce swelling and provides a refreshing sensation.
Neti Pot
A Neti Pot is an ancient remedy originating from Ayurvedic medicine in India. It looks like a small teapot and is used for nasal irrigation. Using a Neti Pot can help clear up sinus congestion, which can contribute to the appearance of eye bags. This device is particularly useful for flushing out extra moisture in your sinuses caused by seasonal allergies, colds, or infections.
To use a Neti Pot, follow these steps:
- Fill the Neti Pot with a saltwater (normal saline) solution.
- Tilt your head to one side over a sink.
- Insert the spout of the Neti Pot into the upper nostril.
- Pour the solution into your nostril, allowing it to drain out of the other nostril.
- Repeat on the other side.
Always use safe water when performing nasal irrigation. Boil the water and let it cool, or use sterile or distilled water to avoid any risk of infection.
Incorporating the use of a Neti Pot into your daily routine can be an effective way to manage sinus-related under-eye bags.
Water
Drinking plenty of water is essential for healthy skin—there is no denying this! So commit to drinking at least eight glasses of water daily to keep your skin hydrated from the inside out.
Dehydration can contribute to under-eye bags. About half of people worldwide don’t meet the daily water recommendations. How much is enough? Recommendations range from 6 to 12 cups and may vary based on many factors, including:
- Age
- Activity level
- Climate
- Sex assigned at birth
- Whether or not you are pregnant
Don’t like water? The good news is that all fluids count toward your daily total. Still, water is a low-calorie option. Try sparkling waters, flavored waters, or even water infused with fruit. Hot or cold herbal decaffeinated tea is another good choice.
Antihistamines
Allergies can cause puffy dark circles under your eyes. You may also experience redness or watery, itchy eyes. This reaction is caused by your immune system’s response to something that irritates it, or allergens.
If you feel your under-eye bags might be allergy-related, ask a doctor about taking over-the-counter (OTC) allergy medications. Some brands include:
- diphenhydramine (Benadryl)
- cetirizine (Zyrtec)
- loratadine (Claritin)
It’s also a good idea to avoid potential allergens whenever possible. If you’re having trouble identifying the cause, consider keeping a diary to see what substances or other things cause the most reaction. If this is a chronic problem, talk with a doctor about allergy testing.
Corticosteroids, which can come in ointment form, can help relieve the symptoms of puffy, itchy eyes caused by allergies.
Retinol
Retinol is a derivative of vitamin A and is available in cream, gel, or liquid form. When applied to the skin, this ingredient can improve collagen deficiency, which is a common cause of under-eye bags. Retinol creams have been used for a variety of skin issues, including acne, psoriasis, aging, and certain cancers. You may find lower concentrations of retinol in different OTC products, but stronger creams require a prescription from a dermatologist.
Retinol is generally applied to the skin once a day, about a half hour after washing your face. If you’re pregnant or breastfeeding, it’s advisable to skip the retinol creams and extra vitamin A.
Retinoids are vitamin A derivatives that can stimulate collagen production and reduce the appearance of under-eye bags. However, these can be irritating, especially around the sensitive eye area, so you will want a low concentration formula.
Sunscreen
Applying sunscreen every day is a must for preventing under eye bags, and it is the number one way to stop wrinkles and other signs of aging. Many men are not wearing sunscreen every day and don’t have protection from other products. When choosing a sunscreen, select a minimum SPF 30, and apply it generously to the area around your eyes. Remember to reapply every two hours or more if you are sweating or swimming.
You can also avoid the sun’s harmful rays by:
- Sitting in the shade
- Wearing protective clothing
- Avoiding tanning beds
- Using caution around water, snow, and sand, which can increase your risk of sunburn
Overdoing it in the sun can make the skin around your eyes sag and wrinkle as well as cause dehydration of the skin. A mineral-based sunscreen, a good pair of UV-protected sunglasses, and a hat can do wonders to help protect your face from those harmful rays, ultimately keeping the skin around the eyes from wrinkling and darkening due to the effects of the sun.
Collagen
Our body’s collagen production naturally begins to slow down as we age. You can thank this process for under-eye bags. Increasing collagen levels can help your skin look firmer and smoother and help your skin cells keep renewing and repairing normally. Try chicken bone broth or collagen supplements for skin, like collagen protein powder, to increase your collagen intake.
Foods rich in vitamin C and amino acids can also help with collagen production by boosting hyaluronic acid levels, creating healthier skin.
Good sources of vitamin C can include:
- Oranges
- Red peppers
- Kale
- Brussels sprouts
- Broccoli
- Strawberries
Collagen is the most abundant protein in our bodies. It’s found in our muscles, bones, skin, and tendons. It gives our skin strength and elasticity and helps replace dead skin cells.
Iron
Iron deficiency anemia is a condition where the blood is lacking red blood cells. These cells carry oxygen to tissues in the body. Iron deficiency can cause dark circles under the eyes and even pale skin. Other symptoms can include:
- Extreme fatigue
- Cold hands and feet
- Brittle nails
A doctor can check for anemia with a blood test. They may recommend eating more iron-rich foods or taking iron supplements to get back on track, depending on the severity.
Iron-rich foods include:
- Red meat, pork, and poultry
- Seafood
- Beans
- Leafy green veggies, like kale and spinach
- Raisins, apricots, and other dried fruits
- Iron-fortified foods, like cereals, breads, and pasta
- Peas
Incorporating these foods into your diet can help improve the appearance of bags under your eyes.
Conclusion
In conclusion, addressing under-eye bags in men naturally involves a combination of lifestyle changes, dietary adjustments, and simple home remedies. For those looking into how to get rid of bags under eyes male, incorporating practices such as using cool compresses, reducing salt intake, staying hydrated, and ensuring adequate sleep can significantly reduce the appearance of bags under your eyes. Additionally, avoiding smoking and limiting alcohol consumption can further enhance the effectiveness of these methods. While these natural remedies may not provide instant results, with consistency and patience, you can achieve a more refreshed and youthful appearance over time.
Frequently Asked Questions
What causes bags under the eyes?
Bags under the eyes can be caused by various factors, including aging, fluid retention, lack of sleep, allergies, and genetics.
How does a cold compress help reduce eye bags?
A cold compress can help reduce swelling and shrink dilated blood vessels, which can lessen the appearance of bags under the eyes.
Can tea bags help with under-eye bags?
Yes, the caffeine and antioxidants in tea bags can help improve circulation and reduce puffiness.
How often should I use cucumbers on my eyes?
You can use cucumber slices on your eyes daily for about 10-15 minutes to help reduce puffiness and hydrate the skin.
What is a neti pot, and how does it help?
A neti pot is used to rinse the nasal passages with saline solution, which can help reduce nasal congestion and improve under-eye appearance.
How much water should I drink to reduce eye bags?
Drinking at least eight glasses of water a day is generally recommended to stay hydrated and help reduce fluid retention that can cause eye bags.
Are there any side effects to using antihistamines for eye bags?
Antihistamines can cause side effects such as drowsiness, dry mouth, and dizziness. It’s best to consult a doctor before using them for eye bags.
Is retinol safe to use under the eyes?
Retinol can be safe under the eyes but should be applied carefully and in small amounts to avoid irritation. It’s advisable to consult with a dermatologist before starting any new skincare regimen.