For young people, a case of puffy eyes due to allergies or lack of sleep will often be resolved within 24 hours. However, in some people (of all ages) the condition can become chronic and detract from a healthy appearance. To learn more about the various causes and treatments for puffy eyes, read on.
Puffy eyes causes
There are 3 common causes of puffy eye appearance.
- Puffy eyes from fluid collection (edema) can be due to fluid overload, medical conditions causing water retention, inflammation from allergy or after surgery, poor lymphatic drainage, among others.
- Puffy eyes from bulging fat may occur over time as a normal age-related cosmetic problem.
- Puffy eyes from infraorbital hollowing can be caused by a relative lack of fat under the lower eyelids.
Puffy eyes treatment
When fluid retention is causing a condition of puffy eyes, possible treatments may aim to do the following:
- Restrict sodium intake
- Sleep with your head elevated
- Obtain allergy medication
- Gentle massage
- Warm compresses
In cases of age-related accumulation of fat around the eyes, surgeons often recommend a relatively minor procedure called blepharoplasty, i.e. eyelid surgery. During eyelid surgery, small incisions are made in the natural creases of the eyelid or inside the lower eyelid, and excess fatty tissue is then removed.
With infraorbital hollowing, the problem may be due to an illusion of puffy eyes because of a relative lack of fat under the eyelids. Adding volume to the tissue with dermal fillers or fat transfer can work well in these cases.
Puffy eyes products
Prevage eye anti aging moisturizer is said to fight the effects of environmental damage, fine lines and wrinkles, crow's feet, dark circles and puffy skin.
Cellcosmet Cellmen Puffy Eyes-XT is said to soothe and visibly reduce puffiness under the eyes
Puffy eyes prevention
Here are just a few easy ways to prevent and reduce moderate puffiness and under eye bags:
- Get enough sleep! For most people, 6-8 hours of sleep is necessary for optimum health.
- Sleep with your head slightly elevated so fluids don't accumulate around your eyes as you sleep. If needed, use a second pillow.
- Using compresses to soothe and cool the eye area may help reduce eye puffiness. Recommended compress materials include chilled cucumber or raw potato slices and chamomile, green, or black tea bags.
- Try to reduce your allergy symptoms by avoiding allergens and using prescription products if appropriate.
- Avoid smoking and sun exposure, as they can accelerate the aging process.
Related Links
- What does eyelid surgery do?
- How can I get rid of under eye bags?
- What's the best non-surgical way to treat eye bags?
- Tired eyes - how can I get rid of them?