When I see patients at my office, they’re often tired because of the pace of modern life—and their eyes can look puffy, with dark bags or circles underneath, as a result. Consequently, I get asked how to get rid of puffy eyes not to look so exhausted.
But before I answer that question, let’s talk about what causes puffy eyes.
Causes of Puffy Eyes
- Genetics – If you look at family photos, you may notice it’s a family trait.
- Aging – The passage of time makes the eyes puffy due to the retention of fluids, sun damage, and skin sagging.
- Allergies – Seasonal allergies are a common reason why your eyes might look puffy. The itchiness, inflammation, and weariness will cause the tissues around your eyes to be bloated.
- Lack of sleep/stress – If your body is tired from lack of rest, it will show up in your eyes. Stress causes you to retain water, and your eye area swells because of it.
How to Get Rid of Eye Bags Overnight
One of the best ways to get rid of puffy bags under the eyes is to get enough sleep. This is a no-brainer, but it is surprisingly effective. The average person needs at least 7 to 9 hours of sleep a night.
However, just jumping in bed is often not enough to get a restful sleep. To help your mind and body settle down for a good quality rest, try these tips:
- Avoid drinking alcohol and caffeine a few hours before you sleep.
- If you exercise, try not to schedule your workout within two hours of your bedtime.
- Don’t look at any of your digital devices an hour before sleep (or, if this is not possible to avoid, at least use a good pair of blue light blocking glasses).
Getting enough sleep has multiple benefits beyond getting rid of puffy eyes. It can rejuvenate the entire body and promote health and wellness.
How to Get Rid of Bags Under the Eyes Fast
Puffy eyes can be inconvenient, especially if you have a social gathering or business meeting where you want to look your best. If you’re short on time, here are a few tips on how to get rid of puffy eyes fast:
- Cold Compresses – These reduce puffiness by cooling the eyes and draining excess fluid from the skin.
- Phenylephrine Cream – Believe it or not, phenylephrine (hemorrhoid cream) can do the trick. This works by constricting blood vessels and improving the appearance of the area under the eyes. The cream also contains hydrocortisone, which fights inflammation.
- Eye Cream – There are many eye creams on the market that help puffiness of the eyes by reducing inflammation. The best eye creams contain ingredients like rosehip oil, lavender, and cucumber.
- Concealer – The right makeup is the fastest, easiest way to cover an eye bag’s appearance.
Because of the methods listed above, puffy eyes do not need to get in the way of your life. Just have the creams, makeup, and concealer handy in case of emergency.
How to Get Rid of Eye Bags Naturally
For those of you wondering how to get rid of eye bags at home with a natural alternative, try these suggestions:
- Cucumber Slices – Cut two pieces and put them on top of your eyes. The cucumber slices should be chilled to provide cooling for the eyes and help with swelling.
- Tea Bags – Take two soaked tea bags in water and freeze them until cold. Put them over the eyes for at least 10-20 minutes. Cold tea bags contain tannins that reduce swelling and inflammation.
- Drinking Water – If you have excess salt in your system, it can cause fluid retention. Drinking water will flush the overabundance of salt.
- Sleeping On Your Back – This can avoid fluid buildup by using the force of gravity to drain fluid from your eye area.
Getting rid of puffy eyes naturally can work, but be patient since it will take time to do. If you want to get rid of it fast, please refer to the section above.
How to Get Rid of Dark Circles and Puffy Eyes
In addition to puffy eyes, dark circles may also form around your eyes. This is usually due to age as the skin around your eyes thins out, exposing blood vessels underneath. Also, dark circles can be due to fluid imbalances, allergies, and poor circulation.
The following are some suggestions on how to get rid of dark circles as well as puffy eyes:
- Avocado – Place two slices of avocado on top of your eyes. This will lighten the dark circles and make them not so apparent.
- Potatoes – Put the potato in the refrigerator so that it’s cold so it can act as an anti-inflammatory. Potatoes also contain enzymes, vitamins, and starch to whiten the dark circles under the eyes.
- Concealer – Using makeup can immediately improve the appearance of dark circles around the eyes.
Dark circles around your eyes can make you look tired even though you’re not, so taking steps to resolve them is well worth your time.
How to Get Rid of Under-Eye Bags Permanently
If your puffy eyes and dark circles are not resolved by the suggestions listed above and you are set on getting rid of them, then it’s time to consider plastic surgery.
Blepharoplasty is a type of eyelid surgery that removes the excess tissue from the skin around your eyelids.
Another medical solution is using chemical peels, laser treatments, and medications that help with severe cases.
In either case, make an appointment with an oculoplastics specialist (eye doctor specializing in plastic surgery) to get a consult on your situation.
Final Thoughts
Puffy eyelids and dark circles around the eyes are very common these days due to not getting enough sleep, allergies, dehydration, and the aging process.
Fortunately, there are several ways you can resolve them naturally, fast, and in the comfort of your own home.
Plastic surgery is also an option to resolve these cosmetic issues permanently. You’ll need to decide for yourself if you don’t mind living with some signs of aging, or if it’s worth it to you to consider a surgical solution.
