EYE Bags

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Wheelock Place (65) 6734 3977

Treatment at a Glance

TREATMENT TIME

FROM 15 - 30 minutes

DURATION

Up to 12 months

DOWNTIME

Minimal to none

NUMBING

Yes

Eye bags refer to the mild swelling or puffiness that appears under the eyes, giving a tired or aged appearance. They are a common cosmetic concern that can affect both men and women and often become more noticeable with age. The skin beneath the eyes is delicate and thinner than the rest of the face, which makes it more prone to changes over time. As the underlying structures shift, the lower eyelids may appear puffy or swollen and create shadows that can make the face look fatigued.

While eye bags are generally harmless, they can affect one’s overall appearance and confidence. Many people seek ways to reduce their prominence and achieve a fresher, more rested look.

WHAT CAUSES Eye Bags?

Several factors contribute to the development of eye bags, ranging from natural ageing processes to lifestyle habits and genetic predisposition. Understanding the root cause of your eye bags can help determine the most effective treatment to reduce their appearance.

Ageing and loss of skin elasticity — as we age, the skin naturally loses collagen and elastin—proteins responsible for maintaining firmness and elasticity. The muscles and tissues around the eyes also weaken, which allows fat that was once held in place to shift forward and create a puffy or sagging appearance. This structural change is one of the most common reasons eye bags become more noticeable over time.
Fluid retention and lifestyle factors — fluid retention can lead to temporary or persistent under-eye puffiness. Several factors contribute to this, including lack of sleep, allergies, sinus congestion, and the consumption of excess salt, alcohol and caffeine
Genetics and bone structure — for some individuals, eye bags are an inherited trait. Genetic factors influence the thickness of the skin, the distribution of fat under the eyes, and how the body retains fluid. Some people may develop noticeable under-eye puffiness at a younger age due to these hereditary characteristics. Additionally, certain facial structures, such as a naturally lower or recessed tear trough, can create the illusion of more prominent eye bags.
Medical conditions and hormonal changes — although less common, certain medical conditions such as thyroid disorders and kidney disease can contribute to fluid retention and under-eye swelling. Hormonal fluctuations, particularly during pregnancy or menopause, may also lead to changes in how the body retains fluid, temporarily worsening the appearance of eye bags.
Sun exposure and skin damage — long-term exposure to UV rays accelerates collagen breakdown and weakens the skin’s structure, which makes under-eye puffiness more pronounced. Sun damage can also cause hyperpigmentation, which may exaggerate the shadowed appearance of eye bags.

While some causes of under-eye bags are unavoidable, others can be managed with lifestyle changes and targeted treatments.

How do eye bags appear?

Common signs of eye bags include:

Mild to moderate swelling — puffiness under the eyes that can vary in intensity throughout the day.
Sagging or loose skin — a gradual loss of skin firmness (link to service page: Sagging Skin), leading to a drooping effect.
Dark circles or shadowing — discolouration or shadows that make the under-eye area appear darker (link to service page: Dark Eye Circles).
A tired or worn-out appearance — a change in facial expression caused by puffiness or hollowness under the eyes.

These signs can develop gradually or become more pronounced due to ageing, lifestyle habits, or genetic factors.

Who is at risk of developing eye bags in Singapore?

Eye bags can affect anyone, but certain factors make some individuals more prone to developing them. In Singapore’s humid climate and fast-paced lifestyle, specific environmental and lifestyle-related risks may contribute to their formation. Those most at risk include:

Individuals over 30 — ageing leads to a natural decline in collagen and skin elasticity, causing the under-eye area to sag and appear puffy.
People with a family history of eye bags — Genetics play a major role in how fat is distributed under the eyes, making some individuals more susceptible from a younger age.
Individuals with high salt intake — Asian cuisine such as Singaporean food often includes salty and processed foods, which can lead to fluid retention and worsen under-eye puffiness.
Those frequently exposed to the sun — excessive UV exposure accelerates skin ageing, breaking down collagen and making under-eye bags more noticeable.
Individuals with irregular sleep patterns — a fast-paced lifestyle and long working hours can lead to poor sleep quality, contributing to fluid retention and swollen under-eyes.
People with allergies or sinus issues — Singapore’s high humidity can trigger allergies and sinus congestion, causing fluid buildup and inflammation under the eyes.

Lack of proper sleep can cause fluid retention and poor circulation, leading to increased puffiness and more pronounced eye bags.

Can eye bags go away on their own?

The persistence of eye bags depends on their underlying cause. Temporary puffiness caused by factors such as lack of sleep, dehydration, excessive salt intake, or allergies may subside with lifestyle adjustments. Ensuring proper hydration, reducing sodium consumption, getting quality sleep, and managing allergies can help minimise swelling in these cases.

However, eye bags that develop due to ageing, genetics, or long-term fluid retention are unlikely to resolve on their own. As the skin loses elasticity and the underlying muscles weaken, fat displacement under the eyes becomes more pronounced, leading to persistent puffiness. In such cases, topical creams and home remedies offer minimal improvement, as they do not address the structural changes in the skin and fat distribution.

For individuals experiencing long-term under-eye puffiness, professional treatments such as dermal fillers, laser therapy, or skin-tightening procedures can provide more effective and lasting results.

How do I get rid of my under-eye bags naturally at home?

Making simple lifestyle changes can help reduce under-eye puffiness and improve the overall appearance of the delicate skin beneath the eyes. Here are some natural ways to minimise under-eye bags:

Get enough sleep — poor sleep quality can lead to fluid retention and puffiness under the eyes. Aim for 7–9 hours of sleep per night and try sleeping with your head slightly elevated to prevent fluid buildup.
Stay hydrated — dehydration can make under-eye bags more noticeable by causing the skin to appear dull and sunken. Drinking enough water throughout the day helps flush out excess salt and reduces fluid retention.
Limit salt and alcohol intake — excessive salt and alcohol consumption can lead to water retention, which makes the under-eye area appear swollen. Reducing processed foods and moderating alcohol intake can help prevent puffiness.
Eat a nutrient-rich diet — foods high in antioxidants, vitamin C, and collagen-boosting nutrients support skin health. Leafy greens, citrus fruits, nuts, and omega-3 fatty acids help maintain skin elasticity and reduce puffiness.
Manage allergies and sinus congestion — allergies and sinus issues can cause inflammation and fluid buildup under the eyes. Using antihistamines, saline rinses, or avoiding known allergens can help reduce swelling.
Apply cold compresses — placing a chilled spoon, cold compress, or cold tea bags over the under-eye area for a few minutes can constrict blood vessels and temporarily reduce puffiness.

While these lifestyle changes can help improve the appearance of under-eye bags, persistent puffiness may require medical treatment.

What are the treatment options for eye bags?

Treatments to minimise eye bags include:

Skin-repairing polynucleotide injections — formulated for the delicate under-eye area, this regenerative treatment (link to service page) enhances skin elasticity, improves hydration, and smooths fine lines, which helps reduce puffiness and tired-looking eyes.
Undereye fillers (hyaluronic acid-based fillers) — we use premium dermal fillers (link to service page) to restore lost volume, smooth out hollows, and reduce the shadowed appearance caused by eye bags.
SmoothEye Laser — this non-invasive laser treatment (link to service page) tightens loose skin around the eyes, boosts collagen production, and reduces the appearance of puffiness.
CO2 Fractional Laser — by stimulating collagen and resurfacing the skin, this laser treatment (link to service page) improves under-eye texture and reduces sagging.
HIFU (High-Intensity Focused Ultrasound) — a non-surgical skin-tightening treatment (link to service page)that lifts and firms the under-eye area by stimulating collagen deep within the skin.
Ultraformer MPT & Ultherapy — these specialised ultrasound-based treatments (link to service page) help tighten and firm the under-eye area, which helps reduce sagging and puffiness for a naturally refreshed appearance.

Here at Cove Aesthetics, we understand that under-eye bags can affect your confidence and make you look more tired than you feel. While lifestyle adjustments may help in some cases, persistent eye bags often require targeted treatments for visible and lasting improvement. We offer a range of non-surgical solutions designed to refresh and rejuvenate your under-eye area.

Book a consultation with us today for a detailed assessment and personalised treatment plan.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Are eye bags permanent?

Eye bags resulting from ageing or genetics tend to be permanent but can be minimised with treatments like fillers or surgery. Temporary puffiness due to factors like lack of sleep or allergies often subsides with lifestyle changes.

Can dehydration cause eye bags?

Yes, dehydration can lead to under-eye bags. It’s recommended to drink 6-8 glasses (1.2 liters) of water daily to maintain proper hydration.

Can stress cause eye bags?

Stress increases cortisol levels, which can lead to inflammation and affect the appearance of your eyes, resulting in eye bags.

What foods can cause eye bags?

High-sodium foods can cause the body to retain water, leading to swelling, including under the eyes. Limiting salt intake may help reduce puffiness.

Does smoking contribute to eye bags?

Yes, smoking can accelerate collagen loss, leading to thinner skin under the eyes and more prominent bags.

Are there medical conditions that cause eye bags?

Certain conditions, such as thyroid problems, sinus infections, and liver or kidney issues, may also create under-eye bags.

Do topical treatments help with eye bags?

Topical treatments, such as retinol creams, can help thicken the skin and reduce the appearance of under-eye bags, though results may vary.

NO TWO FACES ARE THE SAME, AND NEITHER ARE our treatments.

Customised treatment plans always work best. We tailor each treatment plan to your specific needs, ensuring you get the results you desire. Our patient’s journey starts before their booking – and continues after their COVE experience.

Book an appointment

STEP ONE

Book a Consultation

We require new patients to attend a consultation with our doctors so we can better understand your aesthetic concerns. At Cove, we genuinely care for our patients. Consultations are in-depth, never rushed, and we will never recommend treatments that you do not need. Simply drop us a WhatsApp or a phone call to book an appointment!

STEP TWO

Come On Over

It’s time to come into COVE and meet us for your consultation! During this phase, we encourage you to maintain an open mind. While you may have a vision in mind, our doctors may offer different advice based on their assessment of your condition and desired treatment outcomes.

STEP THREE

Begin Your Transformation

You’ve consulted our Cove Experts, and the treatment plan has been discussed with you. We’re now ready to make your transformation happen! To ensure no time is wasted, we recommend starting your treatment in the same session as your consultation. You’ll love how each visit to COVE is a boost to your self-confidence!