Causes

As you age, the tissue structures and muscles supporting your eyelids weaken. The skin may start to sag, and fat that is normally confined to the area around the eye (orbit) can move into the area below your eyes. Also, the space below your eyes can accumulate fluid, making the under-eye area appear puffy or swollen. Several factors cause or worsen this effect, including:

• Fluid retention, especially upon waking or after a salty meal
• Lack of sleep
• Allergies
• Smoking
• Heredity — under-eye bags can run in families