What Causes Puffy Eyes—And How to Actually Get Rid of Them

You wake up, walk to the mirror, and there it is: puffiness around your eyes that makes you look more tired than you are. Even with a full night’s sleep, the swelling lingers—and no amount of splashing cold water seems to make it go away. It’s a familiar frustration, especially when your face tells a story you didn’t intend to share.

So what’s behind those swollen eyes—and how do you keep them from becoming a regular feature?

Sleep Isn’t Always the Culprit

Lack of rest plays a role, but it’s not the whole picture. The skin under the eyes is thinner than the rest of the face, which makes it more likely to show fluid retention or swelling. This can be triggered by lying flat for hours, a salty meal the night before, or even tears after a long day.

For some, it’s also a matter of genetics. If your parents or siblings have visible under-eye puffiness, chances are you might notice the same—regardless of how well you eat or sleep.

Small Habits, Big Effects

Sometimes, what you do (or don’t do) every day adds up. Not drinking enough water can cause your body to hold on to fluids. Sleeping flat on your back may allow fluid to pool around your eyes. And if you’re rough when removing makeup or frequently rub your eyes—because of allergies or screens—that irritation can lead to swelling over time.

What Actually Helps

You don’t need fancy products or expensive gadgets. A clean washcloth cooled in the fridge, placed gently over your eyes, can ease swelling. Chilled tea bags or slices of cucumber might also help, thanks to their natural calming properties.

Hydration matters more than people think. Drinking enough water helps your body regulate itself and can ease puffiness. If your eyes are most swollen in the morning, try sleeping with your head slightly elevated—gravity will help keep fluid from settling under your eyes.

For skincare, use mild products with ingredients like chamomile, caffeine, or aloe. Skip anything heavily scented, as that can irritate the skin. And be gentle—no rubbing or dragging, especially in such a delicate area.

When to Take It Seriously

Not all puffiness is harmless. If one eye is more swollen than the other, or if there’s pain, redness, or itching that doesn’t clear up, it’s time to see a doctor. These could be signs of an allergic reaction, an infection, or an underlying condition such as thyroid issues.

A Bit of Care Goes a Long Way

Puffy eyes can leave you looking more worn out than you feel, but they’re not permanent. With a few small changes and more attention to how you treat the skin around your eyes, you can help reduce the swelling—and feel more at ease with your reflection. It’s not about aiming for flawlessness. It’s just about looking like yourself again.