Minimizing, Preventing & Treating Puffy Eyes | Healthy Aging Month

Have you ever looked in the mirror in the morning and noticed your eyes were puffy?

Puffiness under or around the eyes happens to most of us at least occasionally, especially as we get older.

​So what causes eye puffiness and bags, and is there anything we can do about it?
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As we age, the muscles that support our eyes can weaken, and the fat that is around our eyes can migrate under our eyes. This can lead to the appearance of puffiness. In addition, fluid can accumulate below our eyes, causing the bags we all dislike so much.
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A few other factors may also contribute to eye puffiness for some of us, including:

• Heredity: Some people are more prone to developing under-eye bags than others, and it might run in your family.
• Lack of Sleep: Not getting enough shuteye can make puffy eyes worse.

• Allergies: Allergies can cause fluid retention under the eyes. If you have allergies, your body releases histamines as part of the allergic response. Histamine can have several effects on the body, including leaking from blood vessels. This fluid can accumulate under the eyes.
  
• Fluid Retention: Certain factors can cause your body to retain more fluid than usual. For example, not drinking enough fluids or eating too much salty food may lead to fluid retention.

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Minimizing Puffy Eyes

Puffy eyes and bags are typically not a sign of a serious medical problem. They can still be a cosmetic concern though. There isn’t a lot of scientific evidence to validate at-home treatments for eye puffiness and under-eye bags. At the same time, while it is always important to check with your eye doctor before applying anything to your eyes or eyelids, most at-home remedies create little cause for concern.   
 
The following at-home remedies may help relieve puffy eyes:
 
Apply a Cool Compress
A cold compress may decrease swelling. Use a cold washcloth and place it on the eyes for about ten minutes. Some people prefer to use cool cucumber slices or a cool eye mask. Avoid putting ice directly under or on your eyes, as it may irritate delicate skin.
 
Apply a Tea Bag
Applying a tea bag is also a well-known home remedy to reduce puffiness under the eyes. The idea behind the use of a tea bag is that the caffeine may penetrate the skin and decrease swelling. Do not put a hot tea bag under your eyes. Instead, wet a teabag and put into the refrigerator for about 30 minutes. Place it under your eyes for about 20 minutes.
 
Use Eye Cream
There are various eye-safe creams and rollers on the market that may be helpful for some people. While these are not miracle cures, you may see some reduction in puffiness. Always use a product that is specially formulated for use around the eyes, test a small area to see if causes any irritation, and talk with your eye doctor if you have any concerns.
 
Wear Cosmetics
Certain cosmetics may help minimize the look of puffy eyes. With all the cosmetics on the market, it may take a little trial and error to find something that works well for you. Make sure you use fresh makeup, and don’t share eye makeup with anyone else. Also, avoid using your fingers to apply makeup, and clean your makeup brushes regularly. These tips can minimize bacteria in your makeup, which can cause eye infections.
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Preventing Puffy Eyes

Like many things in life, prevention is your best bet. While certain factors, such as aging and your family history, are out of your control, there are things you can do to reduce puffiness under and around your eyes.
 
Get Enough Rest
Sleep can contribute to eye puffiness. In addition to puffiness, it can also cause dark circles. Although sleep needs vary, most adults need at least seven hours of sleep each night.
 
Watch Your Salt Intake
When it comes to puffy eyes, too much salt can be a culprit. High salt intake can lead to fluid retention. It isn’t just added table salt that can be a problem when it comes to eye puffiness. Also be aware of the salt content in food, whether you’re preparing meals at home or eating out.
 
Drink Plenty of Water
Dehydration can make fluid retention worse and contribute to puffiness under the eyes. Although individual fluid needs can vary, the general rule is to drink about eight full glasses of water a day.
 
Limit Alcohol Consumption
Alcohol can lead to dehydration and interfere with proper sleep. Both factors can play a role in under-eye bags.
 
Treat Allergies
Allergies may lead to puffy eyes and a host of other symptoms. Consider ways to decrease exposure to allergens, and talk with your doctor about allergy medications. This includes talking with your eye doctor about specific treatments for eye allergies, particularly if yours are bothersome or severe.
 
Sleep With Your Head Slightly Elevated
Sleeping with your head elevated may prevent the fluid from settling under your eyes. Try sleeping propped up with a few pillows to see you are comfortable and it improves your eye puffiness.
 
In most cases, at-home remedies and preventative measures can help reduce both the severity and frequency or occurrence of puffy eyes. Occasionally, if puffiness is extremely bothersome, you may want to consider seeking the advice of an eye doctor or treatment from an oculoplastic surgeon (plastic eye surgeon). Of course, if you have any concerns about at-home remedies or you are worried about the possibility of something more serious, always contact your eye doctor.
 
We hope our tips help you minimize eye puffiness and under-eye bags. If you have any concerns about puffy eyes or other eye health issues, we are here to answer your questions. To schedule an appointment with one of our eye doctors, please call us at 508-746-8600.
 
Next week we’ll be covering Healthy Aging Month with, “Are Cosmetic Eye Procedures Right for Me?” Check back soon!