What Causes Puffy Eyes?

Oct 13, 2021 Source: Cainiu Health

Dr. Cui Xin

Introduction

1. Sleep deprivation: Periorbital edema (swelling around the eyes) is the primary cause of under-eye bags, which commonly occur due to insufficient sleep. 2. Poor circulation: Impaired blood circulation in the periorbital skin can lead to the formation of under-eye bags. 3. Congenital factors: For example, orbicularis oculi muscle hypertrophy–type under-eye bags result from genetic predisposition.

As people age, fine lines gradually appear across the body, most noticeably around the eyes. Prominent under-eye bags may also develop. For individuals who naturally value beauty, this can be particularly distressing, prompting them to seek effective methods to eliminate under-eye bags. But what causes under-eye bags? Below, we address this question.

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What Causes Under-Eye Bags?

1. Insufficient Sleep

Under-eye bags primarily result from periorbital edema (swelling). This swelling commonly occurs when sleep is inadequate. During sleep, the body undergoes detoxification and metabolizes excess fluid. When sleep is insufficient, detoxification becomes impaired, leading to toxin accumulation—and consequently, under-eye bags. In women especially, insufficient sleep not only causes under-eye bags but may also lead to dark circles, rough skin texture, and accelerated skin aging.

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2. Poor Circulation

Impaired blood circulation in the periorbital area can contribute to under-eye bag formation. To alleviate such cases, it’s important to allow the eyes adequate rest, perform gentle massage of key periocular acupoints, or apply cold compresses (e.g., ice packs). Additionally, consuming excessive fluids before bedtime may cause under-eye bags: overhydration temporarily overwhelms the kidneys’ capacity to excrete surplus fluid, resulting in periorbital edema and subsequent bag formation.

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3. Congenital Factors

For example, orbicularis oculi muscle hypertrophy–type under-eye bags are genetically determined and typically manifest early in life as lower eyelid bags. Their hallmark features include a smooth, arc-shaped, continuous bulge located just below the lower eyelid margin, with no associated skin laxity. Other congenital types include simple skin-laxity type, and mild-to-severe lower eyelid fat prolapse type—caused primarily by excessive development of orbital septal fat. Due to gravitational forces, this fat herniates forward (prolapses), and in severe cases, may be accompanied by lateral canthal ligament laxity, eyelid eversion, and lid–globe separation, often resulting in epiphora (excessive tearing).

The above outlines the primary causes of under-eye bags. We hope this information proves helpful to you.

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What causes under-eye swelling?

Under normal circumstances, eye bag swelling may be caused by excessive water intake before sleep, crying, allergic conjunctivitis, hypothyroidism, glomerulonephritis, or other factors. If discomfort occurs, it is recommended to seek medical examination and treatment at a hospital promptly. In daily life, one should maintain good living habits, avoid staying up late for long periods, control salt intake, and maintain a balanced diet.