When it comes to the undereyes, many people pit eye bags vs dark circles and vice versa. Meanwhile, some may confuse them and use the terms interchangeably. While there is some overlap between their features, it’s essential to distinguish them from one another to determine what exactly you’re dealing with and how to address the issue. 

Explaining Eye Bags

Eye bags are a distinctive under-eye feature characterized by mild swelling and puffiness. It can naturally occur due to aging, but there are also cases where fluid accumulates in the weakened tissues under the eye. Various factors can contribute to the weakening of tissues and the formation of eye bags, including smoking tobacco and insufficient water intake. 

Defining Dark Circles

Dark circles are best known for their darker pigmentation under the eyes. It can form under the eyes even in children if the skin is thinner than usual. It’s more likely to be temporary for them unless it’s due to asthma, allergies or other chronic diseases. Poor blood circulation and a lack of iron can also contribute to the development of dark circles under the eyes.  

The Difference Between Eye Bags and Dark Circles

Eye bags and dark circles are two distinct features, although they share certain similarities. For example, a lack of sleep can cause both dark circles and bags under the eyes. It is also possible for them to be natural due to genetics, which some people may love or hate about themselves. 

However, it’s essential to recognize the key differences between them. For instance, discoloration is typically associated with dark circles, while swelling is often linked to eye bags. 

Those with eye bags are potentially clear of the unique causes behind dark circles, like anemia and nasal congestion. Meanwhile, those with dark circles are likely safe from fluid retention issues in their undereyes. 

Can You Have Both Eye Bags and Dark Circles?

Yes, some people may experience both eye bags and dark circles simultaneously. It can allude to the same set of causes, such as genetics or sleep habits. However, they are two different concerns that need to be addressed. Whether you have just one or the other, it’s essential to pay attention and adjust certain routines to minimize their appearance. 

Eye Bags vs Dark Circles– Which Is Worse?

The truth is eye bags and dark circles are both concerning undereye situations. After all, the latter suggests swollenness and fluid retention, while the other suggests pigmentation and poor blood circulation. Unless they’re part of your natural features, it’s essential to get to the bottom of any hidden health issues that might be lingering. 

How to Know What Kind of Undereye You Have

Some people may claim to have eye bags when they’re really dealing with dark circles or vice versa. There are also cases where you may not know that you’re dealing with. Here are a couple of tips to confirm what kind of undereyes you have:

Consider the Symptoms

Look at each set of unique symptoms for both undereye types and try to think about what relates more to your own personal experiences. If you tend to deal with asthma or anemia, there’s a chance that you’re dealing with dark circles. However, if you feel dehydrated or harbor too many vices, you may be facing eye bags. 

Look for Puffiness

Sometimes, a closer look at your undereyes will reveal what you have. Take a magnifying mirror and try to look close up. Those with eye bags will notice a certain puffiness in the skin underneath their eyes. For the best results, try to tilt your head to avoid any shadows that may create the illusion of dark circles. You can also do this during the afternoon or evening, when it’s less likely to be morning puffiness. 

Test the Discoloration

You can also look out for discoloration. These can be a little less obvious, and it’s much easier to disregard them. However, here are a few tips that you can use to confirm if you have dark circles:

• Light test: Consider taking a photo with the flash on, with the phone positioned directly across from you. These will typically indicate any hyperpigmentation that stands out from the rest of your skin. Alternatively, you can shine a flashlight on yourself while looking at the mirror. 

• Stretch test: Gently put a finger in your undereye area and stretch the skin underneath. If the skin becomes temporarily lighter while tightened, you’re likely dealing with dark circles. 

• Pinch test: Similar to the stretch test, place your fingers in the undereye area and lightly pinch it. Your skin’s reaction can even suggest whether blood circulation or hyperpigmentation is the cause behind your dark circles. 

@dr_ingky

Suffering from dark eye 👀circles? Try the pinch test at home. 1. Pinch and hold the skin under your eyes for 3-5 secs 2. Observe what happens to the discoloration If it’s due to blood vessels, caffeine serums work best. Pair it with retinol regularly If it’s due to hyperpigmentation, low % Vit C works well (<10%). Add niacinamide for quicker results #darkeyecircles #LearnOnTikTok

♬ original sound – Dr ingky – Dr ingky

Talk to an Expert

When all else fails, it’s essential to consult with your physician about your undereyes and any symptoms you might be experiencing to receive their professional diagnosis. Their expertise can lead to accurate findings, and they can even recommend you to eye care or skin care specialists relevant to your temporary condition. 

Improving Your Undereyes

Whether you’re dealing with eye bags or dark circles temporarily or permanently, it doesn’t change the fact that they can bring down your confidence. Here are some ways to improve the appearance of your under-eye area: 

Adopt Lifestyle Changes

Make sure you’re quitting any vices that may be worsening your undereyes, like smoking or drinking alcohol. Instead, swap it out with more helpful habits, such as hydrating and getting enough sleep from night to night. While the improvement isn’t instantaneous, consistency can go a long way in making you feel and look good. 

Apply Skin-Loving Products

Put on some skin-loving products. During the day, a color-corrector and brightening concealer, paired with a light dusting of powder, can work wonders. For the night, look out for eye serums and creams that can soothe the under-eye area. Look for ingredients containing caffeine, as they can ease both puffiness and dark marks under the eyes. 

Use Home Remedies

Try implementing some home remedies to lighten and depuff the undereyes. Cold compresses, similar to a wet washcloth, can work wonders as they are soothing and can be gently pressed against the eyes. Some people also use chilled tea bags for a good half hour. Make sure excess liquid is removed. 

Ending the Undereye Confusion

The eye bags vs dark circles comparison has gone on for far too long. However, it is a necessary conversation when you’re dealing with one or the other, or potentially even both. Get to the bottom of why you have those features and address them to minimize their appearances and boost your confidence.