Eye Bag Puffiness: 7 Causes of Puffy Eyes—TCM Links Them to Kidney, Spleen, and Liver Deficiency!

Do you wake up every morning to find your under-eyes swollen like steamed buns? Puffy eyes not only make you look tired and older, but they can also affect your confidence. While many people think eye bags are purely a cosmetic issue, they may actually signal deeper health concerns. In this blog, we’ll explore the root causes of eye bag puffiness—and whether your body might be trying to tell you something.

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First, Know Where Your Eye Bags Actually Are

Eye bags refer to the bulging under the eyes caused by sagging skin, fat buildup, or fluid retention. They’re often confused with other common eye-area issues like dark circles, tear troughs, or aegyosal. Here’s how to tell them apart:

• Eye bags: Puffy bulges under the eyes caused by loose skin or protruding fat.
• Dark circles: Pigmentation or visible blood vessels under the eyes, often creating a shadowy effect.
• Tear troughs: Hollow depressions that extend from the inner eye corners down toward the cheeks.
• Aegyosal: Small, plump ridges just below the lower lash line that become more prominent when you smile—they actually make your eyes look cuter!

In short:

Eye bags = bulging

Dark circles = dark

Tear troughs = sunken

Aegyosal = charming

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What Causes Eye Bag Puffiness or Swollen Eyelids?

Eye bag puffiness is often caused by a combination of factors. Understanding these causes is the first step toward finding the right fix.

▸ Aging

As we age, collagen around the eyes gradually breaks down, causing skin to sag. The eye muscles that support the fat around the eyes also weaken, allowing fat to protrude and form visible bags. Loss of skin elasticity only worsens the issue.

▸ Lifestyle Habits

1. Lack of sleep or frequent late nights: Poor sleep affects microcirculation around the eyes, leading to fluid retention and swelling. It also accelerates skin aging.
2. Unhealthy diet: High-sodium intake: Too much salt causes your body to retain water, leading to overall puffiness—including under the eyes.Heavy seasoning: Foods high in sodium or additives can trigger swelling just like salt-heavy meals.
3. Eye strain: Excessive screen time or frequent rubbing can accelerate aging around the eyes, leading to sagging and worsening puffiness.
4. Incorrect makeup or cleansing habits: Residual makeup or incomplete cleansing can irritate the eye area and trigger inflammation, leading to puffiness.

▸ Physiological Factors

1. Genetics: Some people naturally have thinner skin or more fat around their eyes, making them more prone to eye bags.
2. Hormonal changes: Hormonal fluctuations during menstruation or pregnancy can lead to fluid retention and puffy eyes.
3. Allergic reactions: Conditions like dermatitis or allergic rhinitis can dilate blood vessels around the eyes and cause fluid buildup, resulting in puffiness or swollen eyelids.

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TCM’s Take: What Do Puffy Eyes Reveal About Your Body?

Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) views eye bag formation as a sign of internal imbalance. Specifically, it’s often linked to deficiencies in the kidney, spleen, or liver.

• Kidney deficiency: In TCM, the kidneys govern fluid metabolism. When they’re weak, excess water may accumulate under the eyes.
• Spleen deficiency: A weak spleen disrupts the body’s ability to transform and transport fluids, leading to internal dampness and puffiness.
• Cold uterus (in women): Poor circulation due to internal coldness can cause blood and Qi to stagnate around the eyes, leading to dark and puffy under-eyes.
• Liver weakness: The liver is responsible for detoxification. A sluggish liver leads to toxin buildup and poor blood circulation, worsening eye bags.
• Qi and blood stagnation: Eye fatigue or insufficient rest disrupts Qi and blood flow, reducing nutrients to the eye area and accelerating eye bag formation.

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TCM Remedies: How to Improve Puffy Eyes Naturally

According to TCM, addressing internal organ health—particularly of the spleen, kidney, and liver—is key to reducing puffiness. Here are three herbal teas to help:

• Red date, Chinese yam, and coix seed tea: Ideal for spleen-deficient, damp-prone individuals. Helps strengthen the spleen and reduce water retention.
• Goji berry and chrysanthemum tea: Best for liver blood deficiency. Nourishes the liver, brightens the eyes, and reduces puffiness.
• American ginseng and goji berry tea: Suitable for Qi-deficient types. Boosts energy, improves circulation, and relieves eye fatigue.

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Don’t Ignore These Other Physiological Triggers

There are other overlooked causes of eye bag puffiness that may deserve attention:

1. Lymphatic fluid retention: Poor circulation or sleeping positions (e.g. side sleeping) can cause lymph fluid to accumulate around the eyes.
2. Inflammation: Allergies or irritation from things like uncomfortable contact lenses can inflame eye tissues and cause swelling.
3. Fat displacement or buildup: Aging or weight gain can cause fat around the eyes to shift or accumulate, forming stubborn eye bags.

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What Type of Eye Bags Do You Have?

Knowing your eye bag type can help you choose the best solution:

Puffy (fluid-retention) type

○ Causes: Poor sleep, salty food, crying, hormone changes, or drinking too much water before bed.
○ Signs: Puffiness is most noticeable in the morning, fades throughout the day, and feels squishy when pressed.

Fatty type

○ Causes: Genetics, aging, or protruding orbital fat.
○ Signs: Firm fat lumps under the eyes that remain constant throughout the day.

Mixed type

○ A combination of both fluid retention and fat buildup.
○ Puffiness may be more obvious in the morning, but even after it fades, visible fat lumps remain.

So—what type of eye bags do you think you have?

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Are Eye Bags Tougher to Treat in Men? Yes — and Here’s Why

Eye bags can be particularly stubborn in men due to differences in skin structure and lifestyle habits. Men generally have thicker skin, which means once eye bags form, they’re less likely to fade on their own. Add to that the common habits of long hours on digital devices and frequent late nights, and it’s no surprise that eye bags become more pronounced.

For men, improving lifestyle and diet is key to managing under-eye puffiness. Professional treatments — such as radiofrequency therapy to promote lymphatic drainage — can also help reduce puffiness more deeply and effectively.

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Don’t Ignore the Causes of Puffy Eyes — Eye Bags Can Signal Health Issues

Eye bags aren't just a cosmetic concern — they could also be a sign of underlying health problems. Conditions such as kidney dysfunction, thyroid imbalances, or heart issues can all lead to fluid retention and under-eye swelling.

If your eye bags persist and you experience other physical symptoms, it’s best to consult a doctor and undergo a full medical check-up to rule out potential health concerns.

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Can Ice Reduce Eye Bags? The Right Way to Use Hot and Cold Compresses

Hot and cold compresses are one of the easiest and most affordable ways to reduce puffiness — especially for water-retention eye bags or temporary swelling from lack of sleep.

Cold Compress (Best in the Morning):

Tools: Cold damp towel, chilled metal spoon, cucumber slices, or a store-bought gel eye mask.

Time: 10–15 minutes, optionally combined with gentle massage.

Benefits: The cold helps constrict blood vessels, reduce microvascular congestion, and drain excess fluid, easing morning puffiness.

Warm Compress (Best at Night):

Tools: Warm damp towel or heated steam eye mask.

Time: 5–10 minutes. 

Benefits: Relaxes eye muscles, boosts blood circulation, and supports repair and detox around the eyes.

Tips for Safe Compressing:

• Always check the temperature — avoid extremes that can burn or overstimulate.
• Use clean tools to reduce the risk of infection.
• Don’t overdo it — 1 to 2 times a day is enough. Overuse can cause blurred vision or irritation.

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Everyday Habits to Prevent Puffy Eye Bags

Prevention is better than cure — and that’s especially true for eye bags. Adopt these healthy habits to keep puffiness at bay:

1. Avoid drinking too much water or eating salty foods within 2 hours of bedtime.
2. Use a slightly elevated pillow to promote fluid drainage from the face.
3. Cut back on screen time and avoid staying up too late. (Follow the 30-minute rule: rest your eyes every half hour.)
4. Wear sunglasses in strong sunlight to protect collagen around your eyes.
5. Always remove makeup properly and cleanse the eye area thoroughly.
6. Eat antioxidant-rich foods (like vitamin C, vitamin E, and polyphenols) to help slow aging around the eyes.

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Got Puffy Eye Bags? Here's a Full Guide to Emergency Fixes, Diet Tips, and Professional Treatments

For mild puffiness, adjusting your daily habits and skincare can make a noticeable difference. Here’s a comprehensive breakdown of natural remedies and professional solutions.

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Lifestyle Tweaks That Actually Work (If You Stick with Them)

1. Prioritize Quality Sleep: Aim for 7–8 hours a night to boost blood flow and reduce swelling and dark circles.
2. Watch Your Diet: Reduce salt and avoid sodium-heavy foods like canned goods and processed snacks. Load up on potassium- and fiber-rich fruits and veggies like bananas, oranges, and spinach to promote fluid balance.
3. Stay Hydrated the Smart Way: Many believe drinking too much water causes puffiness, but the truth is dehydration leads to water retention. Drink about 8 glasses of water daily, but limit intake right before bed.

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Prevention Tips: Daily Eye Care That Makes a Difference

• Keep your eye area clean and avoid rubbing your eyes.
• Limit screen time and take regular breaks.
• Maintain optimal indoor humidity to avoid dry skin.
• Choose gentle, effective eye care products and always remove makeup thoroughly.
• Change pillowcases and towels frequently to prevent dust mites and irritation.

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Emergency De-Puffing Tips for Puffy Morning Eyes

1. Ice Packs: Apply a cold spoon, damp towel, or gel mask to your under-eyes for 10–15 minutes to reduce swelling.
2. Warm Compress: Use a warm towel for 5–10 minutes to improve circulation and ease tired eyes.
3. Cucumber Slices or Tea Bags: Place chilled cucumber slices or brewed (then cooled) tea bags — like black tea — on your eyes. Cucumber soothes and hydrates, while tea has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.
4. Eye Massage: Gently massage the area to improve blood flow and reduce puffiness. (Start at the inner corner, sweep along the lower lid to the outer corner, then back over the top lid.)
5. Elevate Your Head While Sleeping: A higher pillow helps prevent fluid buildup around the eyes.

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Got Puffy Eye Bags? Here's How to Choose and Use the Right Eye Skincare Products

When it comes to managing fluid-retention (puffy) eye bags, the right skincare can make a big difference — if you know what to look for and how to apply it.

Key Ingredients to Look For:

Choose eye creams that contain caffeine, vitamin K, hyaluronic acid, and peptides. These ingredients help improve blood circulation, fade dark circles, hydrate the delicate under-eye area, and firm sagging skin.

Application Tips:

Apply a small amount of product gently around the eye area using your fingertip. Light tapping motions can help boost absorption while avoiding any tugging on the skin.

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TCM Teas for Eye Bags: Traditional Chinese Remedies for Spleen Dampness & Liver Deficiency

If you're dealing with puffy eyes due to underlying imbalances, Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) offers targeted tea remedies based on your body type:

• For Spleen Qi Deficiency with Dampness: Drink a tea made with red dates, Chinese yam, coix seeds (Job’s tears), and dried tangerine peel. This blend helps strengthen the spleen, reduce internal dampness, and ease puffiness caused by water retention.
• For Liver Blood Deficiency: Goji berry and chrysanthemum tea can nourish the liver and improve eye health, especially if you’re experiencing eye fatigue or blurry vision.

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Stubborn Eye Bags That Won’t Budge? Aesthetic Treatments Could Be Your Best Bet

If you’ve tried every cream and remedy under the sun but your eye bags still won’t go away — especially if they’re caused by fat deposits or are more severe — then it might be time to consider professional aesthetic treatments.

Lifestyle and skincare can only do so much. To truly tackle deeply rooted or fat-based eye bags, in-clinic solutions may be the most effective route.

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Aesthetic Eye Bag Treatments: What Are Your Options?

Eye Bag Surgery: What to Expect

There are two main types of eye bag surgery:

• Transconjunctival (internal) method: A small incision is made inside the lower eyelid to remove excess fat — ideal for younger individuals with good skin elasticity.
• External incision method: An incision is made just below the lash line to remove both fat and loose skin — better for those with sagging skin.

Recovery typically takes 1–2 weeks. Swelling and bruising may occur.

Filler Injections for Tear Troughs

For under-eye hollows, hyaluronic acid fillers can be injected to smooth the area and reduce the appearance of eye bags.

Laser Treatments

Laser therapy stimulates collagen production, tightens skin, and reduces fine lines and puffiness around the eyes.

Radiofrequency (RF) Therapy

RF boosts blood flow and lymphatic drainage, helping to fade dark circles and reduce swelling. Even a single session can visibly smooth and tighten the under-eye area.

Important Note: Always consult a certified medical professional before undergoing any aesthetic procedure. Choose a licensed clinic and experienced doctor, understand the risks, and be aware of post-treatment care requirements.

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Want to See Real Eye Bag Results? Try the Perfect Medical R6 Miracle Eye Rescue Treatment for an Instant Refresh

While lifestyle changes and home care can help, they may not be enough for busy city dwellers who struggle to stick to screen time limits or perfect sleep schedules. If you're looking for a faster, more effective way to reduce puffiness, the Perfect Medical R6 Miracle Eye Rescue Treatment could be your game-changer.

This signature treatment is backed by thousands of real users who’ve experienced noticeable improvements in their eye bags. It's especially popular with those new to non-invasive treatments like the “eye bag gun.”

What Makes the R6 Treatment So Effective?

Using professional-grade radiofrequency (RF) combined with red and blue light therapy, the R6 Eye Bag Treatment penetrates multiple layers of the skin to deliver:

• Collagen Boosting: Firms up sagging under-eye skin.
• Improved Circulation & Detox: Enhances lymphatic drainage to reduce dark circles and fluid retention.
• Triple Impact: Targets eye bags, fine lines, and dark circles — all in one go.

Why Choose R6 Over Traditional Methods?

Compared to surgery or injections, the R6 treatment is non-invasive, painless, and requires zero downtime. It’s a safe, effective option for those with mild to moderate puffiness who want visible results without going under the knife.

Click the link below to learn more about pricing and details — and don’t miss the chance to book your first trial for free by filling out the 1-minute form!