5 DIY Remedies for Puffy Eyes

Of course, commercial eye creams, gels and serums are generally more effective than kitchen remedies because they not only reduce the appearance of puffy eyes and dark circles but also produce a long-lasting effect by enhancing skin elasticity; but unfortunately sometimes we just don’t have them within reach. DIY remedies for puffy eyes come to rescue when you need an instant effect that will last for several hours.

Cucumber Slices

Raw cucumber is 95% water and so it is widely used as a natural skin moisturizer. It also contains antioxidants that reduce irritation and redness. Simply slice the cucumber, lie down, and place the slices over closed eyes for at least 5–10 minutes (the longer, the better). Cold cucumber slices work better, so you should consider chilling them in the refrigerator or freezer. If you have to deal with puffy eyes on a regular basis, consider keeping some sliced cucumbers in the refrigerator at all times so that you’ll always have them when you need them.

Raw Potato

Raw potato slices are a great alternative to sliced cucumbers. They stay cool longer and contain starch and other substances that help tighten the skin around the eyes. Instead of using sliced potatoes, you can make a potato compress: grate raw potato, wrap it in several layers of cheesecloth, and lay over the eyes.

Teabags

Tea (especially low-fermented green tea) is a rich source of antioxidants and caffeine that help tighten the skin around the eyes and make it firmer. Green tea additionally has anti-inflammatory properties, but if you don’t have any, black tea should work just fine. Chamomile tea also helps to reduce puffy eyes. It doesn’t contain caffeine but it does have antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. Chamomile tea effectively reduces puffiness and redness, provides relief for itching, and can even be used to treat conjunctivitis.

To reduce the appearance of puffy eyes, steep two teabags in hot water for five minutes. Then remove them from the water, place the teabags into a plastic bag, and chill them in the refrigerator or freezer. When the teabags are nice and cold, squeeze the excess water, lie down, and apply the teabags to your closed eyelids for about 15 minutes. You can forego the chilling part if you don’t have time, but you should make sure that the teabags aren’t hot before you place them on your eyes.

Milk

Milk is a great remedy for irritated and puffy eyes. It contains lactic acid that has a whitening effect on the skin and thus helps to reduce dark circles around the eyes. Soak two cotton balls or pads in chilled milk, squeeze the excess moisture, and put the balls/pads on your eyes. Replace them when they become warm. You can repeat the process until you get the desired result.

Cold

If your refrigerator and pantry are empty, and you don’t even have a couple of teabags to spare, a simple cold compress may help. For example, you can apply an ice pack or a bag of frozen vegetables to your closed eyelids to reduce puffiness. Don’t forget to wrap the compress with a clean towel before applying, otherwise it may damage your skin. Chilled spoons are a great alternative to an ice pack. Put two spoons in the freezer or into a cup filled with ice. When they get chilled enough, gently put the back of each spoon on your eyelid or under the eye and apply light pressure. Remove when the spoon gets warm.