What causes the appearance of puffy eyes?

Puffy looking eyes can be caused by a number of things, and often these are related to each other. Some of the most common reasons include:

Fluid Retention:

One of the main causes of the appearance of puffy eyes is fluid or water retention. When you lie down to sleep, gravity no longer pulls the fluids down to the lower part of your body, causing them to settle around your eyes, leading to puffiness by the time you wake up.

Allergies:

Allergies can cause eyes to appear swollen and puffy. Pets, pollen, dust and pollution are common allergens that can trigger an immune response, which can lead to inflammation and visible puffiness around the eyes.

Not enough sleep:

A lack of good sleep can cause your blood vessels to dilate, which can also lead to puffiness around the eyes. Visible dark circles can be caused by fatigue, which also reduces circulation, creating a dark and puffy appearance.

Lifestyle:

A diet high in salt can cause your body to retain water, which is one of the leading causes of visible puffy eyes. Surprisingly, dehydration can also cause your body to hold onto water as a protective measure, which also results in unwanted puffiness.

Ageing:

As we age, the skin around our eyes becomes thinner and less elastic. This can cause the fat that normally supports the eyes to move into the lower eyelids, making them appear puffy.

What Can I Do to Alleviate Puffy looking Eyes?

Fear not, there are several effective solutions to target that unwanted puff! The best solutions for puffy looking eyes in the morning include:

Elevate Your Head While Sleeping:

Keeping your head elevated while you sleep can help prevent fluid from settling around your eyes. Try using an extra pillow – or a wedge pillow if it’s comfortable.

Cold Compress:

Applying a cold compress can help reduce the appearance of puffiness. You can use chilled cucumber slices, a cold spoon, or a dedicated eye mask that has been kept in the fridge. It also been said that used green-tea bags, chilled in the fridge, then applied can work wonders.

Stay Hydrated:

Drinking plenty of water throughout the day helps flush out excess salt and prevents your body from retaining water. Aim for at least eight glasses of water a day.

Adjust Your Diet:

Reducing your salt intake can also help significantly reduce fluid retention. Try a Mediterranean style-diet, rich in fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins, and avoid processed foods that are high in sodium (salt).

Good Quality Sleep:

Ensure you get at least 7-8 hours of quality sleep ever night. By maintaining a regular sleep schedule, you can improve overall sleep quality and help reduce puffiness.

Manage Your Allergies:

If allergies are the main cause of your puffy eyes, try to minimise your exposure to the things that might trigger them. Solutions like using air purifiers, washing your bedding regularly and using hypoallergenic products can also be beneficial.

Liz Earle favourites to help target puffy looking eyes

Creating a targeted skincare routine can also make a significant difference in reducing the appearance of morning puffiness. Liz Earle offers a range of products that can help soothe and revitalise the eye area.

Cleanse with Liz Earle Cleanse & Polish Hot Cloth Cleanser:

Start your routine with the iconic and award-winning Cleanse & Polish™ Hot Cloth Cleanser. This gentle yet effective cleanser removes make up, dirt, and impurities, leaving your skin feeling clean and refreshed. The hot cloth gently exfoliates and leaves your skin looking radiant.

Soothe with Liz Earle Eyebright Soothing Eye Lotion:

Next, use the Eyebright™ Soothing Eye Lotion. This product is specially formulated to revitalise tired, puffy looking eyes. Infused with witch hazel, aloe vera and cornflower, it helps to refresh and soothe the delicate eye area. Apply a few drops to a cotton pad and gently sweep over closed eyes.

Target with Liz Earle Superskin Eye Cream:

For a more targeted treatment, the Superskin™ Eye Cream is a must-have. This rich yet lightweight cream is designed to help reduce the appearance of puffiness, brighten dark circles and hydrate the eye area. It contains a powerful blend of botanical ingredients, including alaria esculenta extract and pomegranate fruit extract to firm and tone the skin. Gently pat a small amount around the eyes, taking care not to pull or tug at the delicate skin.

Hydrate with Liz Earle Skin Repair Moisturiser:

Finish your routine with the Skin Repair™ moisturiser. Although this is not specifically for the eyes, keeping the surrounding skin well-hydrated is essential. Find the formula that best suits your skin type (choose from Normal/Combination, Dry/Sensitive or Rich) to ensure optimal hydration and protection throughout the day.

Additional Tips for Maintaining Healthy Eyes:

In addition to a dedicated skincare routine, here are some extra tips to help keep your eyes looking their best:

• Avoid Rubbing Your Eyes: This can irritate the delicate skin around your eyes and exacerbate any visible puffiness.
• Use SPF (always): UV rays can damage the skin and contribute to premature ageing. Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen every day and wear sunglasses to help protect your eyes.
• Stay Consistent: Consistency is key in skincare. Stick to your routine and give products time to work.

Morning puffiness around the eyes is a common issue, but with the right know-how and a consistent skincare routine, you can effectively manage and reduce the dreaded puff. Understanding the causes of puffy eyes helps in choosing the right remedies and products. Try our recommended skincare products in your daily routine to keep your eyes looking refreshed and feeling revitalised.

Remember, a combination of lifestyle changes, proper skincare routine and consistency will yield the best results.