How can I reduce bags under the eyes?

Where do bags under the eyes come from?

Dark circles or bags under the eyes are caused by the retention and accumulation of water and fat under the eyeballs. These bags prevent the proper circulation of these fluids, so they turn brown or gray, creating an unattractive area under the eyes. Puffiness is often accentuated by smoking, excessive consumption of alcohol and fatty foods, lack of sleep or regular physical activity. A biological explanation, although not very common, can also explain this phenomenon.

In some cases, the lymphatic vessels are not in good condition, due to poor drainage of toxins by the lymph. As a result, the accumulation of these elements under the eyes is quickly visible, since this area is thinner than the rest of the body's epidermis. Finally, bags under the eyes can also be explained by a hereditary factor. This unsightly phenomenon can be explained by the poor elimination of toxins.

It's important to encourage the drainage of toxins in order to eliminate puffiness. Certain essential oils and vegetable oils are particularly effective in promoting blood circulation. You can combine one or two essential oils with one or two plant oils that have regenerating and detoxifying properties for the skin.

How do I create my eye contour treatment?

Select one of the following plant oils:

• Jojoba oil, which is actually a "wax" and is close to the skin's sebum
• Hazelnut oil, which is light and adapted to the fragile skin around the eyes
• Safflower vegetable oil promotes blood circulation
• Avocado vegetable oil nourishes dry skin

For a complete overview of vegetable oils, please consult our "Which vegetable oil for my skin" page.

Which oils for which effects?

For the more specific problem of bags under the eyes, use the following essential oils on an occasional basis, in addition to the plant oils mentioned above:

• Cistus ladaniferus essential oil: regenerating and toning
• Cypress essential oil (Cupressus sempervirens): toning, decongesting
• Italian Helichrysum (or Immortelle) essential oil: toning, decongesting

Tamanuagit vegetable oil works on blood vessels and moisturizes the skin at the same time. Can be used in place of a vegetable oil.

These essential oils can be applied separately or combined on the skin, with a maximum of 1 to 2 drops diluted in a little vegetable oil (jojoba, rosehip). The following blend, a perfect synergy of essential and plant oils, is particularly effective. Apply one drop directly to puffiness, morning and evening, taking great care to keep away from the eyes! :

• 2 drops of Pistachio Mastic essential oil(Pistacia lentiscus)
• 2 drops of Red Myrtle(Myrtus communis) essential oil
• 4 drops Italian Helichrysum(Helichrysum italicum) essential oil
• 20 ml Argan vegetable oil or another vegetable oil of your choice

Apply the mixture to clean skin. You can also apply compresses with Cornflower or Hamamelis hydrosol. The decongestant effect will be enhanced if you keep the hydrosol in a cool place. You can even freeze the hydrolat.

You can also use a base cream such as elemental cream or aloe vera gel as a carrier to dilute the essential oils.

The natural effects of essential oils will be all the more visible as they can be deployed without interaction with the artificial substances contained in industrial make-up or creams. Thanks to this synergistic blend of plant properties, you'll enjoy a natural serum that's highly effective in removing under-eye puffiness!