Excess water that accumulates underneath the thin skin of the under-eye area can make the affected spots look puffy and dark. According to Health Services at Columbia University, the skin under your eyes is very thin and delicate. When water collects underneath this thin skin, it can make your under-eye area look puffy. Excess fluid can also dilate the blood vessels under your eyes, making the area look shadowy and dark. Treating dark puffy eyes requires a few lifestyle changes as well as some topical aids.
Step 1
Sleep with an extra pillow underneath your head. Lying horizontally can encourage fluid collection in the under-eye area. Sleeping in a raised position will reduce the amount of fluid that collects under your eyes as you sleep.
Step 2
Pour ¼ cup of cold milk into a small bowl. Soak a washcloth in the cold milk. Lie back and place the washcloth over your eyes for 10 minutes. The cold milk will help reduce puffiness and also brighten the skin under your eyes.
Step 3
Tap the skin under your eyes using your fingertips. Tap the skin ever so gently, encouraging the fluid to drain from the skin under your eyes. Continue tapping for a minute or two, which will help reduce the puffs.
Step 4
Drink plenty of water. Drinking at least eight 8-oz. glasses of water per day can help flush your body of impurities and also fight off your body's natural tendency to store water, especially in the under-eye area.
Step 5
Make an appointment with your physician if your under-eye symptoms do not improve. Dark puffy eyes coupled with sneezing, a headache and a runny nose can be a sign of allergies, according to the University of Michigan. Your physician may prescribe medications that can help relieve your symptoms.
Tips and Warnings
- Substitute ice if you have no cold milk in the refrigerator. Slip a few ice cubes into a sealed plastic bag and wrap the bag in a towel. Apply the ice to your eyes for 10 minutes.
- Steer clear of drinks that contain caffeine. Caffeine beverages such as sodas and coffee can actually contribute to swelling and puffiness under your eyes. Never apply ice directly to your skin. There should always be something between your skin and the ice to prevent cold damage to your skin.
Things You'll Need
- Extra pillow
- Cold milk
- Small bowl
- Washcloth
- Water
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