Small swelling around the eyes is a common phenomenon, the frequency of which increases with age. Fortunately, there are several simple ways to get rid of puffy eyes that reduce the symptoms of inflammation.
Home remedies for swollen eyes
If your eyes look tired and swollen, home remedies can be an excellent first treatment.
Apply a cold compress
“Cold compresses help narrow the dilated vessels under the eyes, which helps remove accumulated fluid that causes swollen or dark circles under the eyes,” said Alicandra Tobia, a licensed cosmetician from New York City.
To apply a cold compress, apply a cool moist cloth or ice pack wrapped in a tissue to your eyes for 10-15 minutes.
Try sliced cucumbers or potatoes
For centuries, cucumbers have been used to treat skin diseases. The soothing properties of cucumbers, thanks to vegetable antioxidants, can reduce inflammation and moisturise tired skin, thus reducing puffiness under the eyes.
“Cucumber slices can definitely help, but here’s a funny tip: potatoes too! Potatoes stay cool longer and contain many amazing vitamins and antioxidants that help minimize darkness and puffiness under your eyes,” Tobia says.
So apply a finely sliced chilled cucumber or potato to your eyes and sit back for 10-15 minutes.
Apply eye cream
Puffy eyes can also be the result of poor circulation under the thin skin around the eyes.
Eye creams with vitamin K and caffeine can help improve blood circulation under the eyes, says Dr. Dandy Engleman, a New York dermatologist. This is because they induce vasoconstriction, which improves blood flow and reduces swelling in the eyes.
Take medications for allergies
“Allergies can contribute to the appearance of circles under the eyes due to inflammation. Tiny blood vessels expand and press against the skin, making the skin look darker,” Englman says.
This allergic reaction can also cause swelling.
If your eyes only swell in the spring and fall, or there are other allergy symptoms, such as redness or itching, it’s possible that the cause is allergy. Allergy medications for local and oral allergy may help in her treatment.
Revisit the sleep mode
If you have swollen eyes in the morning, it may be due to lack of sleep. If you do not sleep well, you may have problems with the hormones responsible for water regulation. This can cause puffy eyes due to water retention or dehydration.
“Sleep deprivation leads to a deterioration of the water balance, which leads to puffy bags under the eyes,” says Englman.
To prevent puffy eyes, sleep 7-9 hours a day. You can also try to lift the pillow up to keep your head above your shoulders. This can improve circulation and fluid outflow during sleep, thereby reducing swelling under the eyes.
Avoid salt and alcohol
“A diet high in salt and alcohol leads to water retention and swelling on the face. It can worsen the body’s water balance and cause dehydration, which manifests itself as swollen eyes,” Englman says.
To get rid of puffy eyes, eat no more than 2300 mg of salt per day. In addition, try to use alcohol in moderation.
Give yourself an eye massage
According to Englman, eye massage can reduce swelling under the eyes by improving blood circulation and fluid outflow.
“I recommend starting with a “dotted” movement from inside to outside with the ring finger. This finger does not usually exert such strong pressure on this area.
You can also massage your eyes with a nephrite roller or even a metal spoon. Place any of these items in the fridge at night and use it for light pressure under your eyes in the morning. This will help cool the affected area and narrow the blood vessels.
