Puffy eyes, a common cosmetic concern associated with aging, form when under-eye tissue and muscles supporting the eyelids weaken and fat and fluid migrate into the lower eyelids, according to the Mayo Clinic. If you have become annoyed by the appearance of your puffy eyes, you can try some home remedies to reduce the swollen appearance or you may opt for a temporary cosmetic enhancement.
Step 1
Get adequate sleep. Lack of sleep can cause you to retain fluid, reports Health Services at Columbia University. Seven or eight hours of sleep is a customary healthy amount for most adults, so aim for that, advises the Mayo Clinic. During sleep, prop up your head with an extra pillow or adjust your mattress setting to keep your head elevated; this will help prevent fluids from gathering around your eyes during sleep.
Step 2
Talk to your doctor about treating your allergies. Allergies can cause puffiness under the eyes in addition to red, teary and itchy eyes, says Health Services at Columbia. However, taking an allergy medication can alleviate or completely eliminate these symptoms. If your puffy eyes persist, your doctor may recommend that you cut out potential allergens--such as a soap or cosmetic you use--one at a time, to pinpoint the culprit.
Step 3
Apply cool compresses to both eyes for a few minutes. Wet a pair of washcloths with cool water. Then, sit upright and place each washcloth over the skin below and around your eyes with mild pressure, says the Mayo Clinic.
Step 4
Drink more water, reduce your intake of salt and cut back on—or completely avoid—dehydrating drinks such as alcohol, coffee and tea, suggests Health Services at Columbia. Dehydration can cause your body to try to retain water, which can lead to fluid retention around your eyes. If you’re not sure how much water is enough water, drink enough so that your urine is light yellow to clear.
Step 5
Ask your doctor about cosmetic treatments. Skin treatments such as chemical peels and laser resurfacing can tighten the skin and improve the skin tone around the eyes, which may reduce the appearance of swollen eyes, according to the Mayo Clinic. A more invasive strategy is an eyelid surgery in which the surgeon removes sagging skin and excess fat, says the Mayo Clinic.
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