I have malar bags under my eyes. Why is the skin dry in this area? What can I do to fix this problem please? (Photo)

Question

Anything I can do about dry malar bag skin, or getting them removed please?

Anna Chacon, MD, FAAD · Answer

Hi there,
I can see what you’re referring to — the malar area (the upper cheek just below the eyes) can sometimes develop puffiness or “malar bags,” and the overlying skin can appear dry or crepey. This happens because the skin in that area is very thin and has fewer oil glands than other parts of the face, making it more prone to dryness and irritation. Additionally, when the underlying fat pads shift or fluid retention occurs, the stretching of the skin can make dryness and fine wrinkling more noticeable.

A few possible causes include:

Dehydrated skin barrier: Often due to inadequate moisturization or overuse of drying products (like retinoids or strong exfoliants).

Sun exposure and aging: These thin the skin and break down collagen, worsening both puffiness and texture.

Underlying fluid retention or malar edema: This can accentuate the appearance of “bags.”

To improve this area:

Use a gentle hydrating eye cream with ingredients like hyaluronic acid, ceramides, and peptides. (Products such as SkinCeuticals A.G.E. Eye Complex or CeraVe Eye Repair Cream work well.)

Avoid harsh or drying skincare products around the eyes — especially alcohol-based toners or strong retinoids.

If the malar bags are structural (caused by volume loss or fat pad descent), improvement often comes from injectable fillers or energy-based treatments like radiofrequency tightening, rather than topical products alone.

Staying hydrated, reducing salt intake, and ensuring good sleep can also make a noticeable difference.

With consistent care and the right treatment plan, the skin in this area can regain suppleness and the overall appearance can be softened significantly.

Nelson Lee Novick, MD · Answer

From the photo provided, it appears that a robust HA volumizing filler would work well for contouring the face, and at the same time improving the under-eye areas and diminishing the smile lines. You would be wise to consult with an experienced, board certified cosmetic dermatologist filler expert, since expertise and experience are required by the injector to ensure that the specific contours of the male face are preserved, so as not to inadvertently feminize the face. The dermatologist can also better evaluate the nature of the dryness you complain of and will likely be able to prescribe an appropriate moisturizer or mild topical anti-inflammatory cream, if appropriate.  Hope this helps and best of luck.

I have malar bags under my eyes. Why is the skin dry in this area? What can I do to fix this problem please? (Photo)

Answers (2)

More Dermal Fillers Questions

Under eye filler dissolved, eyes look so hollow and tired - what can I do to treat this? (Photo)

Puffiness above corners of lips - what would be the best treatment for this? (Photo)

Stretching face after filler?

Suitability of dermal fillers to increase definition of cheekbones and face? (Photo)

What is the best option to correct lack of volume in the lower eyelids? (photos)

What can be done about hollowing of the extreme inner eye corners? (photo)

WE SEND PRETTY
EMAILS