Bags under the eye are formed by fat and fluid that settles into the area, and there are a number of reasons they appear, including genetics, aging, fluid retention, and allergies. Fluid retention from lack of sleep, monthly hormonal changes, or eating too much salt can make matters worse.

Most dark circles are caused by the appearance of veins beneath the thin skin under our eyes. As we age the skin under our eyes becomes thinner and more wrinkled, which allows the veins in this fatty padded area under the eye to appear more prominent. They do, of course, become more apparent with a lack of sleep. In some people with dark skin, dark circles under the eye may actually be due to superficial pigmentation of the skin and not the underlying veins.

Yes genetics often play a part, some people are born into families where the skin color under the eyes is likely to be darker or bags are more likely to appear earlier in life.

In such cases there is little to be done to improve the situation, save to note that cosmetic concealers and foundation chosen to match natural skin colouring can work wonders for tired looking eye circles.

You should be careful not to choose a concealer that's too light in colour as it will achieve only the reverse effect and will draw attention to the unnatural colouring under your eyes. Apply the concealer all around the eye and not just under the eye, finish off with a light dusting of translucent powder as that will help the effect last that much longer.

Obvious measures such as getting plenty of sleep and treating allergies can often help. Short-term tricks of the trade include applying cool cucumber slices or cool tea bags to the under-eye area, which helps to reduce swelling.

Other ways to be considered as a remedy for both dark circles under the eyes and bags under eyes are:

• Reduce the amount of salt you consume.
• Apply cool compresses to your eyes for a few minutes while sitting upright.
• Sleep with your head elevated.
• Cut back on or eliminate dehydrating drinks from your diet, including tea, coffee, and alcohol.
• Drink lots of water.

Puffiness under the eyes is not necessarily anything to worry over. If the bags under your eyes are accompanied by itchiness, redness, and teary eyes, it could be because of an allergy and you might want to get it checked out.

However, in some cases, swelling in general may be a symptom of a more serious problem. Should you notice fluid retention in other parts of your body, or if it becomes severe or persistent, you should see your Doctor as soon as possible as it may be that you have an underlying medical condition.

Remember not to make comparisons between your eyes and those of others especially those we see in films and in the magazines. If you could afford the attention of professional make up artists and get yourself all airbrushed you'd look as good as them too.

Dark under eye circles or bags under the eyes are just a part of everyday life for many of us, no matter how much we take care of ourselves. Get yourself a good eye cream and dab on a bit of concealer , hold your head up high and don't lose any sleep over it!