SIMPLE SOLUTIONS FOR PUFFY EYES

Bags under the eyes, a mild swelling or puffiness, are a common complaint among people of all ages. They are usually a cosmetic concern and are generally not serious. Symptoms include swelling, sagging or loose skin, and dark circles. While it may not be possible to get rid of eye bags completely, it is possible to reduce their appearance with certain simple home remedies and lifestyle changes. Surgical procedures and dermatological options are available for longer term solutions.

One of the main causes of puffy eyes is aging. The skin under the eyes is very thin, which augments any changes that may occur in the body as we age. Over time, the tissues around the eyes and the muscles supporting the eyelids weaken. Fat that helps support the eyes can then move into the lower eyelids, causing them to appear puffy. Added to that, fluid may accumulate due to fluid retention in the thin skin around the eyes. This may be more noticeable on waking in the morning. Other causes of eye bags include genetics, allergies, insufficient sleep, unhealthy diet, sun exposure, eczema and pigmentation.

Swollen or puffy eyes after crying sometimes occurs.

The eyes produce three types of tears: basal tears to lubricate, nourish, and protect the front of the eye, reflex tears to wash away irritants such as smoke or foreign bodies, and emotional tears which are triggered in response to emotion.

Usually, once they have done their job, the tears flow into the back of the nose through the tear duct.

However, when we cry, the volume of tears may overwhelm the drainage system, causing tears to spill out of the eyes and nose. As the body works to reabsorb the liquid, it retains some of it in the tissue under the eyes, making the area puffy.

A cool compress or a bag of frozen vegetables wrapped in a towel and placed over the eyes for 10 minutes helps drain excess fluid from under the eyes.

A compress of cooled green or black tea bags may also do the trick. The tea contains antioxidants and caffeine that can reduce inflammation and constrict blood vessels, minimising the appearance of dark circles.

Cucumbers have anti-inflammatory properties that may help reduce irritation and soothe swollen eyes; try placing a slice of cold cucumber over each eye for 30 minutes.

Grated raw potato placed over the eyes in a small bag has been found to be effective due to its anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and antimicrobial properties.

Hold two clean metal teaspoons under cold running water for a few minutes, then place the bottom of the spoons’ cups over the eyelids for 30 to 60 seconds. The cool temperature helps to relieve swelling.

Those which contain chamomile, cucumber, and arnica may be effective as they all contain properties that may reduce inflammation and tighten the skin.

Eye creams that contain ingredients such as caffeine may help to reduce eye puffiness by reducing fluid retention. These creams may also contain other anti-inflammatory ingredients, such as hyaluronic acid and peptides.

Protecting the skin against sun damage by using sun screen every day can help with a number of dermatological issues, like premature aging and discolouration, and may also help with under-eye bags and dark circles.

Dehydration can contribute to eye puffiness, so be sure to drink enough water.

Foods rich in iron are beneficial for skin health as iron is crucial for carrying oxygen throughout the body, including to skin cells. Incorporate more collagen-rich and iron-rich foods in the diet, such as fish, leafy green vegetables, nuts and seeds and increase foods containing vitamin C.

Allergies can cause puffy dark circles under the eyes, so consult a doctor about managing or treating allergies.

Remove makeup before going to bed.

A dermatologist or aesthetic specialist may offer more long-term solutions for smoothing the under-eye area, such as prescription creams or cosmetic procedures that work to reduce swelling, discoloration, dark circles and under-eye bags.

These non-surgical options include microneedling, laser resurfacing, chemical peels and injectable fillers to treat puffy eyelids. To maintain the effects, these treatments may need to be repeated. One type of surgical procedure is blepharoplasty, during which excess fat, muscle, and skin in the lower eyelid is removed.