Puffy Eyes: Have you ever looked in the mirror and wondered, ‘Why do my eyes look so puffy today?’ You’re not alone. People often experience puffiness after a difficult night, after a good cry, or sometimes for no apparent reason. It’s usually harmless, but it can make you look tired or older than you feel.
However, there are many ways to reduce the swelling, from quick, at-home fixes to longer-term lifestyle tweaks that help keep puffiness in check.
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Common causes of puffy eyes:
One of the most common causes is poor sleep. When you don’t get enough rest, or your sleep quality is off, blood vessels under the eyes can stand out and fluid can pool, making the lids look puffy and the eyes appear smaller. Aim for 7–9 hours of sleep every night, and try slightly elevating your head to help reduce overnight fluid buildup.
Salt-heavy meals can also trigger morning puffiness. A salty dinner or late-night snacks make the body hold onto water, often right under the eyes. Cutting back on high-sodium foods and hydrating well can help. If puffiness shows up with itchy, watery eyes, allergies may be to blame. Your body releases histamines in response to allergens, which can cause swelling.
How to get rid of puffy eyes?
- Cold helps. A cool compress can shrink blood vessels and limit fluid buildup. Place a chilled spoon or cold tea bags over closed eyes for 5–10 minutes.
- Drinking enough water helps flush excess salt and reduce under-eye swelling. Aim for 6–8 glasses of water a day; add lemon or cucumber slices if you prefer.
- Caffeine is mildly anti-inflammatory and can tighten the appearance of skin. Look for eye creams with caffeine and peptides; gently dab a small amount under the eyes in the morning. Don’t rub.
- Tweak your diet. Excessive salt, sugar, and ultra-processed foods can exacerbate puffiness. On the other hand, water-rich produce like cucumbers, watermelons, and berries can help you stay hydrated and may help reduce the appearance of swelling.
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Puffiness is common, and often it’s just your body asking for a little extra care. Next time you notice it in the mirror, don’t stress. Be gentle with your skin, and look after your sleep, hydration, and diet.