9 Natural Ways to Make Tired Eyes (and Those Bags!) Can Disappear from Your Face
Whether you had one too many martinis or had to wake up so early it was practically illegal, the result is always the same: baggy, tired eyes. The biggest culprits for under-eye swelling are lack of sleep, diet, allergies and stress – all of which can cause excess fluid buildup under your eyes. Lucky for us, tired eyes are uber-simple to treat.
Here are 9 natural solutions for your baggy, tired eyes:
1. Change how you sleep
If your eyes are especially puffy in the morning, adjust the way you sleep: Either sleep on your back, or use an extra pillow to elevate your head to encourage fluid to drain away from your face and eyes.
2. Blink rapidly
When you’re in a deep sleep, you don’t blink, which can also lead to build-up around the eyes. After getting up, blink rapidly for 30 seconds to help the fluids dissipate.
3. Drink more water
Dehydration is one of the main causes of puffy eyes, so make sure to hydrate first thing in the morning, and carry a bottle of water with you throughout the day.
4. Cut back on salt and alcohol
You’ll also want to cut back on aspects of your diet that dehydrate your body, like salt and alcohol. The American Heart Association recommends limiting your sodium intake to under 2,000 milligrams per day. When going out with the girls, hydrate well before and after your night out, and make those cocktails last!
5. Firm your skin with tea bags
Caffeine tightens up your skin when applied topically, and green tea is known for its anti-inflammatory properties. Wet two black or green tea bags in cool water and place on your tired eyes for five minutes.
6. Got milk?
Milk contains amino acids, lactic acid and vitamins A and D, which help beautify skin. Dunk two cotton balls in milk, squeezing out the excess, or soak a washcloth in milk to create a compress. Place on your eyes for 10 to 15 minutes.
7. Slice cucumbers
Cucumbers are a common staple at spas for a reason: They contain vitamin C, silica and caffeic acid, which prevent water retention and swelling. Chill cucumber slices and place over your eyes for 10 minutes.
8. Don’t forget about potatoes!
Did you just throw your last cucumber in your salad? Have no fear – potatoes have a high starch concentration, which can be used as an anti-inflammatory. Chill a potato in the fridge, cut it into slices, and use a slice on each eye. Lay back for 10 minutes.
9. Avoid touching your eyes
It’s so difficult to not touch or rub your eyes – especially when they’re feeling dry or itchy – but in doing so you’re just going to make them feel even drier and itchier. It’s a vicious cycle. Plus, the area around your eyes is the most sensitive area of your face – the skin has very little give and fine lines will form. If you must, use a cool washcloth on your eyes to reduce discomfort.
How do you combat baggy, tired eyes?
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Image: kjaggers
