Whether it’s down to lack of sleep, stress, genetics or simply the realities of ageing, under-eye bags are a common skincare concern - and one that can be particularly stubborn to treat.
While topical products like cooling gels and eye creams can help temporarily reduce puffiness, the causes often run deeper, linked to inflammation, fluid retention, poor circulation or nutritional deficiencies.
That’s where supplements come in. Targeted formulas can help support skin health from the inside out, tackling the underlying factors that contribute to puffiness, dark circles and loss of firmness around the delicate eye area.
What are the most common causes of under-eye bags? Is it mainly lifestyle-related, or do genetics play a significant role?
Superdrug's Pharmacy Superintendent Niamh MacMillan says: “Under-eye bags are often caused by a combination of lifestyle factors and genetics. While a lack of sleep, dehydration, high salt intake and stress can all contribute to puffiness, other triggers such as allergies or even seasonal hay fever can also play a role.
“In many cases, genetics are a major factor; if your parents had prominent under-eye bags, it’s likely you may too. That’s why it’s important to support your skin not just with topical treatments, but from the inside out through hydration, a balanced diet, and targeted supplements where needed.”
Can you explain the difference between puffiness under the eyes and dark circles, and how supplements may address each?
“While puffiness and dark circles often get lumped together, they’re caused by very different things," she says. "Puffiness is usually the result of fluid retention, inflammation, or lack of sleep, whereas dark circles are often linked to thinning skin, poor circulation, or pigmentation, sometimes even all three.”
“That’s why tackling the under-eye area requires a more holistic approach. Supplements such as vitamin C and zinc can help support collagen production and support the maintenance of normal skin. Magnesium supports healthy cell turnover, helping to renew and replenish your skin, which can ease puffiness. Pairing the right nutrients with quality sleep, proper hydration and daily SPF will also help.
“Puffiness typically results from fluid retention or inflammation, while dark circles are often due to thinning skin or hyperpigmentation. Though they can look similar, they have different causes and solutions”.
Are there any particular ingredients that are most effective in reducing under-eye bags?
MacMillan recommends collagen, caffeine, and hyaluronic acid and says: "Each works in unique ways. Collagen helps support skin firmness, caffeine can help reduce puffiness by stimulating circulation, and hyaluronic acid can help hydrate skin to plump up fine lines. A supplement that targets hydration and collagen support can be a fantastic addition to your routine.”
Do you recommend combining supplements with other treatments, like topical eye creams or lifestyle changes, for better results?
“Topical creams with peptides or caffeine can deliver on-the-surface results, while supplements work gradually over time," she adds. "Don’t underestimate the power of sleep, hydration, and stress management.”
We’ve rounded up all of the best supplements for tackling under-eye bags.
Rejuvenated H3O Night Repair
More than just a beauty supplement, Rejuvenated’s H3O Night Repair is a hydration powerhouse designed to work while you sleep. Each capsule is packed with hyaluronic acid, pine bark extract and a careful blend of vitamins and minerals, including magnesium and vitamin A - all known to support skin regeneration and elasticity.
Fans rave about the visible improvements in puffiness and tired-looking eyes after just a few weeks, often citing smoother, plumper under-eyes as a key result. It’s a smart choice for those targeting overnight repair and hydration from within, especially if dry, crepey skin is part of the issue.
Buy now £30.00, Face The Future
LYMA Supplement
Touted as the Rolls-Royce of supplements, LYMA is in a class of its own when it comes to supporting skin health from the inside out. This premium formula blends patented ingredients like hydrocurc (a powerful anti-inflammatory), KSM-66 Ashwagandha, and Cognizin - all rigorously backed by clinical studies.
Though it’s not designed specifically for under-eye bags, it's known for consistently brighter, firmer under-eyes and an overall glow after regular use. The inclusion of skin-essential nutrients like vitamin D3 and a highly bioavailable form of magnesium further supports sleep and stress management - two major contributors to puffiness and fatigue around the eyes.
Buy now £150.00, LYMA
DoSe by VH Collagen Tripeptide Complex
This advanced collagen supplement by Victoria Health is a favourite among skincare insiders for a reason. It features VERISOL® B collagen peptides - a patented ingredient shown in clinical trials to improve skin elasticity and reduce wrinkle depth.
Regular users often report firmer skin under the eyes and a more rested appearance, thanks to the supplement’s ability to stimulate the skin’s own collagen production. Enhanced with zinc and vitamin C for better absorption and added antioxidant support, DoSe Collagen Tripeptide Complex targets one of the root causes of under-eye bags: thinning, fragile skin that lacks structure.
Buy now £48.00, Victoria Health
Pureclinica Triple Strength Hyaluronic Acid
If hydration is your skin’s missing link, Pureclinica’s Triple Strength Hyaluronic Acid is a cost-effective game changer. With 300mg of hyaluronic acid per tablet (one of the highest doses available), it delivers serious internal moisturising benefits.
As hyaluronic acid binds up to 1,000 times its weight in water, this supplement works to plump and hydrate skin from within, helping to smooth fine lines and reduce the hollow, shadowy look that can exaggerate under-eye bags. It’s a straightforward but highly effective option for dehydrated complexions in need of a moisture boost.
Buy now £29.99, Amazon
Neal's Yard Frankincense Intense Beauty Boost Supplement
Drawing on the natural anti-ageing power of frankincense, this supplement from Neal’s Yard blends organic botanical extracts with collagen, hyaluronic acid and essential micronutrients. It’s designed to support skin firmness and resilience, which can visibly reduce sagging and puffiness under the eyes over time.
The standout ingredient is Boswellia extract (from frankincense), known for its anti-inflammatory and skin-soothing properties - making it particularly useful for those whose under-eye bags are worsened by stress or environmental triggers.
With its holistic, ethically sourced formula, it’s ideal for those who prefer a more natural route to brighter, firmer skin.
Buy now £38.00, Neal's Yard
Seabody Beauty Supplement
Harnessing the power of marine bioactives, Seabody’s Beauty Supplement takes a skin-first approach to cellular rejuvenation. At its core is Fucoidan, a potent seaweed-derived compound with impressive antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, shown to support collagen production and protect against oxidative stress.
Paired with biotin, zinc and hyaluronic acid, the formula targets multiple causes of under-eye bags, from fluid retention to skin sagging. Many users often highlight a visible reduction in puffiness and a smoother under-eye area within weeks. It’s a high-tech yet natural solution for those seeking radiant skin and a brighter, more refreshed gaze.
Buy now £70.00, Seabody
CYMBIOTIKA Liposomal Vitamin C
What sets CYMBIOTIKA’s Vitamin C apart is its liposomal delivery system, which allows for superior absorption compared to traditional capsules or powders. This format ensures the skin receives maximum antioxidant protection, helping to combat free radical damage and support collagen synthesis - two crucial factors when it comes to minimising under-eye bags and discolouration.
With added bioflavonoids and bamboo silica, this blend also promotes skin elasticity and reduces inflammation. Along with a fresher, more luminous complexion and diminished dark circles, it's a deliciously zesty way to start your morning.
Buy now £40.00, CYMBIOTIKA
Nutravita Omega 3 2000mg
Omega-3s are often overlooked in skincare, but they play a crucial role in reducing inflammation - and that includes the kind responsible for swollen, tired-looking under-eyes. Nutravita’s high-strength fish oil capsules contain 660mg EPA and 440mg DHA per serving, helping to soothe inflammatory responses in the body while supporting skin hydration and barrier function.
Expect brighter, plumper skin and a noticeable reduction in puffiness, especially when used consistently. Sustainably sourced and third-party tested for purity, it’s a smart, no-frills addition to any routine targeting inflammation-induced eye bags.
Buy now £20.99, Amazon
Nutrition Geeks Vitamin D3 4000 iu & Vitamin K2 MK7 100μg
This powerful duo from Nutrition Geeks is more than just an immunity booster. Vitamin D3 supports overall skin health and cellular repair, while vitamin K2 plays an underrated but essential role in blood circulation and preventing calcium build-up in blood vessels, which can contribute to dark under-eye shadows and puffiness.
It’s also a great pick for those with low sun exposure or who suspect sluggish circulation could be making their under-eyes appear dull or swollen.
Buy now £9.99, Amazon
ALPHA01 Vitamin C 1200mg Zinc 40mg
A hardworking budget option that doesn’t compromise on effectiveness, ALPHA01’s high-dose Vitamin C and zinc capsules support collagen production, immune defence, and tissue repair - all vital for reducing under-eye puffiness and fatigue.
Vitamin C also helps to brighten the skin by tackling oxidative stress and hyperpigmentation, making this an excellent choice if dark circles are paired with bags. It’s a no-nonsense supplement that delivers visible results at a fraction of the price of premium options.
Buy now £6.99, Amazon
Verdict
Rejuvenated's H3O Night Repair is our top choice for tackling under-eye bags thanks to its potent blend of antioxidants, hyaluronic acid and ionic minerals. These ingredients work synergistically to hydrate skin cells, reduce puffiness and support skin regeneration overnight, leading to a refreshed, youthful appearance.
