Reduce under-eye circles, puffiness and bags for a fresher look!

As you might suspect, several factors can contribute to dark circles or bags under the eyes. Fortunately, there are simple and effective ways to remedy the situation. Here's an overview!

What causes dark circles or bags under the eyes?

As we age, collagen production decreases and the skin becomes thinner and less elastic. Blood vessels are then more visible, especially under the eyes, and appear as dark circles. Bags or puffiness under the eye occurs because the lower eyelids lose their firmness, another result of aging. This is completely normal!

But the formation of dark circles or bags can be attributed to several other causes, which can generally be corrected through lifestyle changes. These include:

• Diet high in saturated fats and salt
• Dehydration
• Lack of sleep (e.g. insomnia)
• Health problems (e.g. seasonal allergies, dermatitis, etc.)
• Stress
• Overconsumption of alcohol or drugs
• Overexposure to the sun
• Smoking
• Heredity

Good to know!
Dark circles and bags under the eyes are rarely related to medical problems. If you are concerned, consult a health professional, such as your family pharmacist.

How to get rid of dark circles and puffiness

A healthy lifestyle is an excellent way to reduce the appearance of dark circles and puffiness. But you can also follow the simple tips here to help correct these imperfections.

• GENTLY massage the eye area. This will stimulate blood circulation, which, when lacking, can give a bluish tint to the skin under the eyes.
• Sleep with your head elevated. A gentle incline can help drain lymphatic fluid and eliminate toxins from under your eyelids. You could also try some facial exercises every morning. Close your eyes, then roll them in their sockets for a minute or two. It's as simple as that!
• Apply cold to under-eye bags. You can use an eye gel mask, ice cubes wrapped in a clean washcloth, cucumber slices, or black or green tea bags that have been steeped and then chilled in the refrigerator. The coolness will tighten the skin and reduce swelling.
• Apply heat to dark circles. You can warm the gel mask mentioned above with hot (not boiling) water. Alternatively, a wet washcloth can do the trick just fine!
• Use an eye cream. Many creams have draining properties. Some also act on inflammation, irregular pigmentation, dead cell accumulation, etc. Caffeine, vitamins B3 and Cg, LHA, vitamin C and ceramides are among the active ingredients to look for. Ask your skin and cosmetic consultant for more information!
• Use under-eye patches. They help reduce signs of fatigue in about 20 minutes. They also smooth and moisturize the skin, which can help reduce fine lines and wrinkles.

How to hide dark circles or puffy eyes with makeup

Makeup is the ultimate tool for concealing dark circles, puffiness and other imperfections.

• Choose an under-eye cream that reflects light. It will lighten shadows and reduce imperfections.
• Use a concealer. Choose your products based on your eyes. Dark circles under your eyes? Choose a concealer that will catch the light, chase away signs of fatigue and hide imperfections. Apply the concealer to your lower eyelid. Draw an inverted triangle, then pat the product with a clean sponge from the bottom to the top. Set with a loose powder. Got puffy eyes? Use two cream concealers: one that matches your skin tone and one that is half a shade lighter. Apply the first one directly to the bags, then the second one to the hollow, bluish areas. This will make the bags look less bulky.
• Use a light, pearlescent eyeshadow on the eyelid. If you have wrinkles and fine lines, choose a satin eyeshadow, which is more flattering!
• Give your eyes a glow. Use a highlighter powder or pencil. Apply it to the inner corner of your eye, the brow bone and the edge of your lower lid, under your lashes.
• Pay special attention to your lashes. First, curl your upper lashes. Then, apply a lengthening or “definition” mascara. Avoid “volume” mascaras because they weigh down the eyes. Another tip: Don't put any product on your lower lashes.

Important!
Use concealer sparingly. If you use too much product, it can build up in the creases. You wouldn't want that!

To conceal dark circles, puffiness and other imperfections, look on the Internet (YouTube, Instagram, TikTok) for tutorials by makeup pros. But be careful! Adapt their techniques to your eye shape and age. And, for personalized advice, visit your beauty consultant who is there to help you!

Products to reduce the appearance of dark circles and bags

You'll find a wide range of products to help you reduce the appearance of dark circles and puffiness.

• Concealer (tube, stick, jar, etc.)
• Sponges and brushes 
• Eyeshadows
• Mascaras
• Gel masks
• Concealer palettes
• Anti-aging care (cream, lotion, serum and such)
• And more!

Pharmacy services

For personalized advice based on your needs, don't hesitate to meet with your beauty consultant. If you are concerned that your dark circles and puffiness are related to a health problem, consult your family pharmacist.