Why You Have Dark Circles, Puffiness, or Eye Bags (and What Actually Helps)
Why You Have Dark Circles, Puffiness, or Eye Bags (and What Actually Helps)
Dark circles, puffiness, and eye bags are three of the most common under-eye complaints—and they’re also three of the most misunderstood. If you’ve ever tried every eye cream only to see zero change, this episode breaks down why.
In this Beauty Lab conversation, Monina explains what’s
actually happening under your eyes, how to tell which issue you’re dealing with, and which at-home fixes are worth your time (and which ones aren’t).
What Dark Circles Really Are
Dark circles aren’t one-size-fits-all. The darkness you see under your eyes can come from several sources, and identifying the cause is key.
Some people have genetic pigmentation, meaning their under-eye area naturally has more melanin. Others have thin skin, where blood vessels show through, creating a blue or purple tone. In some cases, it’s simply facial anatomy—deep-set eyes, high cheekbones, or lighting that creates shadows. Fatigue and allergies can also make darkness look worse by increasing congestion and inflammation.
How to Tell Which Type You Have
Color is your biggest clue.
Brown or gray tones usually point to pigmentation or sun exposure. Blue or purple tones are typically vascular, caused by thin skin and visible blood vessels. If darkness looks worse under overhead lighting, anatomy and shadowing are likely the culprit.
Pay attention to patterns too. Does it get worse during allergy season? After poor sleep? First thing in the morning? These details help narrow down the cause.
The Best At-Home Care for Dark Circles
If pigmentation is part of the issue, daily eye-safe SPF is a must. Some eye creams include mineral protection like zinc, even if they don’t say “SPF” outright.
Brightening ingredients like vitamin C, niacinamide, and antioxidants help support the skin barrier and improve overall tone. Always use products specifically made for the eye area, and apply them to the orbital bone—not the lash line or eyelid.
Pro tip: apply your eye product first, before moisturizer, so you’re not dragging face cream into the delicate under-eye area.
Puffiness vs Eye Bags: What’s the Difference?
Puffiness is temporary. It’s usually caused by fluid retention, inflammation, salty meals, alcohol, allergies, or sleeping flat. It often looks worse in the morning and improves as the day goes on.
Eye bags, on the other hand, are structural. They’re linked to age-related changes in fat pads, elasticity, and sometimes overall health. Bags don’t fluctuate much day to day.
If it comes and goes, it’s puffiness. If it sticks around no matter what, it’s likely bags.
What Helps with Puffiness (and What to Skip)
For puffiness, tools like gua sha, lymphatic massage, cool compresses, and caffeinated eye products can help move fluid and reduce swelling. Sleeping with your head slightly elevated can also make a noticeable difference.
Be gentle. Tugging or rubbing the under-eye area can lead to fine lines faster because the skin is so thin. Use your ring finger or roller applicators to apply product without pulling.
If puffiness is persistent, it may be worth checking lifestyle factors like frequent NSAID use, hydration, or allergies—and talking with a healthcare provider.
The Hemorrhoid Cream Myth (Yes, We Went There)
You’ve probably seen the comparisons online: hemorrhoid cream vs eye depuffing gel. While some hemorrhoid creams contain vasoconstrictors that temporarily reduce swelling, they’re not made for the eye area and aren’t recommended.
Modern eye products use safer ingredients like caffeine to achieve similar effects—without the risk. Bottom line: stick with products designed for your eyes.
Final Takeaway
Under-eye concerns are rarely caused by just one thing. Dark circles, puffiness, and bags are often multifactorial—genetics, anatomy, lifestyle, and skin health all play a role.
Once you understand what’s causing your issue, you can choose solutions that actually make sense—and stop wasting time and money on things that won’t work for you.
