How to Reduce Dark Circles & Puffy Eye Bags: Expert Tips From A Dermatologist

What Causes Dark Circles & Puffy Under-Eye Bags?

The delicate skin around our eyes is often the first to show signs of fatigue or ageing. Common culprits behind dark circles and puffy under-eye bags include sleep deprivation, genetics, seasonal allergies, dehydration, and salty foods. As we age, skin thinning and collagen loss contribute to sagging and a more pronounced appearance of shadows and puffiness.

Dr. Lee-Mei Yap explains: "Eye bags are very common and a normal part of ageing. They are usually related to the herniation or protrusion of the fat pads under the eyes, which becomes more noticeable as the skin and supporting structures become thinner and lose firmness.”

Dermatologist Tips on How to Reduce Dark Circles & Puffy Eye Bags

Elevate Your Sleep Position to Reduce Under-Eye Puffiness

A simple, effective home remedy for under-eye bags is adjusting your sleep posture. Elevating your head slightly while sleeping can significantly reduce early morning eye bags by preventing fluid accumulation. An extra pillow can help reduce puffiness.

Prioritise Quality Sleep to Minimize Dark Circles & Eye Bags

Sleep deprivation is a major contributor to dark circles and prominent eye bags. Ensuring 7-9 hours of quality rest can dramatically reduce puffiness and brighten the under-eye area.

Upgrade Your Skincare with the Right Eye Care Products

Starting an eye care routine early is crucial for prevention. For addressing under-eye bags, fine lines, and dark circles, selecting the right ingredients is key. The ideal eye care product should be tailored to your individual needs, whether it is for hydration to reduce dark circles, de-puffing the under-eye area or combating fine lines.

Key Ingredients to look for in Eye Care Products

Hyaluronic Acid is a powerhouse for hydrating and plumping the under-eye area. It draws and holds moisture, deeply hydrating the eye contour and visibly replumping skin, softening the appearance of fine lines and hollow under-eyes.

When used topically, caffeine helps to restrict blood flow, temporarily making under eye bags (and dark circles) less noticeable. Fortunately, you do not have to put coffee on your eyes to reap these benefits. Use an eye treatment with caffeine, like the L'Oréal Paris Revitalift Filler 2.5% Hyaluronic Acid + Caffeine Eye Serum. The lightweight, hydrating formula combines Pure Hyaluronic Acid and Caffeine, to re-plump eye wrinkles and visibly reduce dark circles. Continued use over time leaves the eye area firmer, smoother, and more youthful looking. 

For a quick fix to smooth your under-eye area, we recommend trying the L'Oréal Paris Revitalift Laser Eye Bag Instant Eraser. This fast-acting gel is formulated with a Honeycomb matrix micro-structure with Airlicium for a blurring effect, and a silicone elastomer to tighten and lift the under-eye area.

Dr. Lee-Mei Yap explains: "Laser Eye Bag Eraser is formulated with an innovative gel tape technology that creates an invisible film on the skin’s surface, providing a temporary tightening effect. This can help the under-eye area look smoother and firmer for a refreshed, revitalised look."

Maximise De-Puffing: The Cooling Effect

Trying to fight puffy eyes? Use an eye serum with a cooling applicator like the L'Oréal Paris Revitalift Filler 2.5% Hyaluronic Acid + Caffeine Eye Serum, which has a triple roller cooling massager with three cooling stainless steel balls that instantly cool and refresh skin. Apply morning and night by gently massaging around the eye contour until absorbed.

For maximise results, pop it in the fridge for an extra cooling effect. The chilled temperature constricts blood vessels to “calm swelling and refresh tired-looking eyes.” Dr Lee-Mei Yap notes.

Your Anti-Ageing Skincare Must Have: Sun Protection

Dr. Lee-Mai Yap explains the importance "The skin around the eyes is thinner and more delicate, which makes it one of the first areas to show signs of ageing. UV rays speed up collagen breakdown, making wrinkles appear earlier and more pronounced." She strongly advises to "Apply a SPF50+ sunscreen daily and wear sunglasses to reduce squinting and protect from further sun damage."

A Dermatologist Recommended Skincare Routine for Brighter Eyes

To maximise skincare benefits and address dark circles and eye bags, Dr. Lee-Mei Yap recommends having a structured morning routine:

AM Routine:

• Cleanse with a gentle cleanser.
• Face serum apply L'Oréal Paris Revitalift Laser Tri Peptides Age Correct Serum to improve elasticity and smooth fine lines.
• Hyaluronic Acid to boost hydration and plump the skin.
• Vitamin Cg to brighten and even skin tone.
• Moisturise: Follow with L'Oréal Paris Revitalift Laser Anti-Ageing Day Cream to replenish hydration and strengthen the skin barrier.
• Protect: Always finish with a broad-spectrum SPF50 sunscreen. Daily UV protection is essential to prevent premature ageing.
• Target the eye area with L’Oréal Paris Revitalift Laser Eye Bag Instant Eraser: Apply on dry skin. Use a thin, even layer under each eye, tapping gently from the inner to outer corners. Avoid rubbing. Use about half a pea-sized amount per side and allow 15 minutes to fully dry.
• If you’re in your 30s: Use a smaller amount to help prevent or soften early fine lines.
• If you’re in your 40s or 50+: Apply a more generous layer to cover the under-eye area – helps reduce the appearance of more noticeable lines, puffiness and mild eye bags.
• Do not sleep with this product on and remove with waterproof makeup remover.