Dermatologist-approved home remedies and skincare tips to reduce swollen and puffy eyes

Causes of under-eye swelling: Fluid retention is one of the most common causes, often linked to high salt intake, dehydration, or sleeping in a flat position (Image: Canva)

Skincare is often about the basics, and an area that mostly gets overlooked is the under-eye region. Although dark circles are commonly discussed, not many people know how to treat swollen, puffy eyes. There’s also a chance that such an under-eye condition may be linked to underlying problems that require medical intervention.

Causes of puffy eyes

Says Dr Shashi Kant Godara, dermatologist and medical advisor at Ceuticoz, “Puffy eyes often result from a combination of lifestyle factors, genetics, and age-related changes. The skin around the eyes is extremely delicate, making it more prone to swelling. Fluid retention is one of the most common causes, often linked to high salt intake, dehydration, or sleeping in a flat position. Lack of adequate sleep can slow lymphatic drainage, allowing fluid to accumulate.”

Puffy eyes can also result from allergic reactions, whether from skincare products or certain foods that trigger inflammation. Another factor that plays a major role is ageing. “With time, collagen and elastin production decrease, and the muscles supporting the eyelids weaken. This allows fat to shift forward, making puffiness more pronounced,” he adds.

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It doesn’t just stop there. The expert warned that lifestyle habits like excessive alcohol consumption, smoking, and exposure to certain environmental pollutants can trigger under-eye swelling.

How to reduce swollen, puffy eyes

There’s no one magic cure for the problem. Dr Godara suggests lifestyle modifications for better results. He recommends a multi-pronged approach, with a focus on hydration, nutrition, skincare, and targeted treatments.

Dietary changes

“Staying well-hydrated is essential, as dehydration encourages fluid retention. Limiting processed, salty foods helps prevent excess swelling. A diet rich in potassium (bananas, spinach, sweet potatoes) can balance sodium levels, while antioxidant-rich foods (berries, citrus fruits, leafy greens) promote skin repair and circulation,” he suggests.

Simple home remedies

“Simple home remedies can be surprisingly effective. Applying a cold compress, chilled cucumber slices, or cold green tea bags to the under-eye area helps constrict blood vessels and reduce swelling. Sleeping with the head slightly elevated prevents fluid pooling overnight. Gentle lymphatic drainage massage around the eyes can further encourage fluid movement,” he suggests.

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Skincare treatments

He advise, “Eye creams with caffeine, peptides, or retinol can improve firmness and microcirculation. When puffiness is caused by allergies, avoiding triggers and using prescribed antihistamines is important. For structural puffiness due to fat pads or skin laxity, dermatological procedures such as radiofrequency tightening, laser therapy, or fillers can provide more lasting results.”

When to consult a doctor?

According to Dr Godara, medical intervention should be sought when puffiness is sudden, persistent, or accompanied by other symptoms such as redness, pain, itching or vision changes. These may be linked to allergic reactions, infections, or underlying health conditions such as thyroid disease or kidney problems.

He adds that in older patients, puffiness is often a result of “fat pad herniation or severe skin laxity,” which might require surgical correction.

Disclaimer: This article, including health and fitness advice, only provides generic information. Don’t treat it as a substitute for qualified medical opinion. Always consult a specialist for specific health diagnosis.