In the ever-growing quest for beauty, both men and women often search for ways to achieve youthful, glowing skin. One of the most common complaints is under-eye puffiness. Puffiness and dark circles can make you look exhausted, even if you feel rested. You can try several things to de-puff and brighten the under-eye area.

From home remedies to over-the-counter eye creams, there are some ways to combat puffiness around the eyes and achieve a more youthful appearance. Here are eight ways to reduce puffiness around the eyes:

Get Enough Sleep

This one is a no-brainer. Not getting enough sleep will certainly lead to under-eye puffiness. When you don’t get sufficient sleep, your body crops more tension hormones, which can cause fluid retention and lead to puffiness around the eyes. Schedule a regular bedtime and stick to it as much as possible to ensure you get sufficient rest.

Drink Plenty of Water

Staying hydrated is crucial for overall well-being and can help reduce puffiness around the eyes. When the body is dehydrated, it can cause the under eye area to appear puffy and swollen. You will want to aim for eight glasses of water per day or more if you are exercising or sweating a lot. A reminder to drink water can be set on your phone, so you don’t forget and can track how much you’ve had to drink throughout the day.

Limit Your Salt Intake

Too much sodium can cause the body to retain water, leading to puffiness around the eyes. If you are prone to puffy eyes, you will want to limit your salt intake and opt for diets low in sodium. Prepackaged and processed foods are generally high in sodium, so it is best to avoid these if possible. When cooking, use herbs and spices to flavor food instead of salt.

Place Cold Compresses on Your Eyes

Cold compresses can help to constrict blood vessels and reduce inflammation, reducing puffiness around the eyes. Place a cold compress on your eyes for a few minutes. You can use a carrier of icy peas enfolded in a bath sheet or make your ice pack by filling a small bag with water and placing it in the freezer. Gel pads for eyes are also available and can be stored in the refrigerator for use when needed.

Elevate Your Head When Sleeping

If you often wake up with puffy eyes, try elevating your head when you sleep. Place an extra pillow under your head or sleep with a wedge pillow to reduce morning swelling. This will help drain the fluid that has accumulated overnight and reduce puffiness. You can prop up your head using a pillow or two. Ensure your head is higher than your heart to prevent any additional fluid from accumulating.

Try an Eye Cream

Many eye creams on the market can help reduce puffiness and dark circles. Look for an eye cream containing ingredients like arnica, cucumber, and chamomile, all known for their anti-inflammatory properties. Apply the cream to the under eye area using your ring finger, which is the weakest finger and will apply the least amount of pressure. Gently tap the cream into the skin until it is fully absorbed.

Gently Massage the Under Eye Area

Gently massaging the under eye area can also help to reduce puffiness. Use your fingertips and lightly tap around the orbital bone. This will help to stimulate blood flow and lymphatic drainage, which can reduce the appearance of puffiness. The eyelids are delicate, so be sure not to apply too much pressure.

Address Your Allergies

If you suffer from allergies, treating them to moderate puffiness around the eyes is essential. Allergies can cause the body to produce histamines, leading to inflammation and watery, puffy eyes. If you think allergies may be the cause of your puffy eyes, talk to your doctor about possible treatment options. The goal is to reduce the inflammation and allergic response, which will in turn lessen puffiness. In conclusion, there are various things you can do to minimize or prevent puffiness around the eyes. It is vital to understand the causes behind the puffiness and take appropriate steps to address them. By making some simple changes, your eyes will look and feel much better.