Puffy eyes don’t just look bad. They can make you feel tired and unwell. Fortunately there are a lot of natural remedies that can help you get your puffy eyes back to normal.
What Causes Puffy Eyes?
You get puffy eyes when fluid accumulates in the tissue around the eyes. And that can happen due to any of the following:
- Lack of sleep: Not getting enough sleep can lead to fluid retention and puffiness around the eyes.
- Allergies: Allergic reactions can cause inflammation and fluid buildup, resulting in puffy eyes.
- Dehydration: When your body is dehydrated, it tends to retain water, which can lead to puffiness.
- Age: As we age, the skin around the eyes becomes thinner and loses elasticity, making it more prone to swelling.
- Salt and alcohol consumption: Excessive intake of salt and alcohol can cause water retention and contribute to puffy eyes.
Natural Remedies for Puffy Eyes
So how do you remedy them once you’ve got them?
1. Cucumber Slices
Cucumber slices are a classic remedy for puffy eyes. They have a cooling effect and contain antioxidants that can help reduce inflammation.
Simply place chilled cucumber slices over your closed eyelids for 10-15 minutes to soothe and refresh your eyes.
2. Cold Compress
Applying a cold compress can help constrict blood vessels and reduce swelling. You can use a cold washcloth, a chilled spoon, or even a bag of frozen peas wrapped in a thin cloth.
Gently press the compress against your eyelids for a few minutes to alleviate puffiness.
3. Tea Bags
Caffeine has vasoconstrictive properties that can help reduce puffiness by constricting blood vessels. Tea bags, particularly green or black tea, can help reduce puffiness and soothe tired eyes.
Steep two tea bags in hot water for a few minutes, then remove and let them cool. Place the cooled tea bags over your closed eyelids for 10-15 minutes to enjoy their anti-inflammatory properties.
4. Aloe Vera Gel Mask
Aloe vera gel is known for its soothing and anti-inflammatory properties. Apply a small amount of pure aloe vera gel around your eyes and gently massage it in
Leave it on for 15-20 minutes before rinsing off with cool water. Regular use can help reduce puffiness and promote healthy skin.
5. Chilled Spoons
Chilled spoons are a quick and easy remedy for puffy eyes. Place two metal spoons in the refrigerator for about 15 minutes until they are cold. Then, place the rounded side of the spoons over your closed eyelids, allowing the coolness to reduce swelling.
6. Potato Slices
Potatoes have natural anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce puffiness and dark circles. Cut chilled potato slices and place them over your closed eyelids for 10-15 minutes.
The natural enzymes in potatoes can help tighten the skin and reduce swelling.
7. Facial Massage
Gently massaging the area around your eyes can stimulate blood circulation and reduce puffiness. Use your ring finger to apply light pressure in circular motions from the inner corner to the outer corner of your eyes.
Be careful not to exert too much pressure or stretch the delicate skin around your eyes.
8. Egg Whites
Whip up a few egg whites until they’re stiff, then apply them with a brush or your fingers under your eyes. The skin-tightening properties can help reduce puffiness.
9. Salt Water
Mix half a teaspoon of salt in a bowl containing a quart of warm water. Soak cotton balls or eye pads in this warm saline water and place them over your eyelids for a few minutes.
10. Milk
Dip cotton balls in chilled milk and place them over your eyelids for 15-20 minutes. This can help in water retention.