How to Get Rid of Puffy Eyelids

Puffy or swollen eyelids are pretty common, but that doesn't make them any less annoying! Luckily, there are tons of things you can do at home to reduce puffiness and swelling. We'll start by walking you through some simple home treatments you can use to soothe and reduce the appearance of your swollen lids. At the end, we'll touch on a few preventative tips you can use to avoid puffiness in the future.

Here are 18 proven ways to get rid of puffy eyelids.

Method 1
Method 1 of 18:
Drink lots of water.

  1. Image titled Get Rid of Puffy Eyelids Step 1
    3
    1
    1
    The area around your eyes swells up when you’re dehydrated. This is because the skin is desperately trying to retain all the water in it. To avoid this, drink 8-10 glasses of water a day, or drink water whenever you feel thirsty.[1]
    • Drinking too much alcohol can dehydrate you and contribute to puffy eyes for 12-24 hours the day after. Drinking more water to rehydrate yourself can help reduce puffiness caused by dehydration from alcohol.
    Advertisement

Method 2
Method 2 of 18:
Hold cold spoons against your closed eyes.

  1. Image titled Get Rid of Puffy Eyelids Step 2
    1
    4
    1
    Cool 2 metal spoons in the freezer for about 2 minutes. Close your eyes and hold the backs of the spoons against your eyes for several minutes. The cold metal soothes and helps reduce puffiness![2]
    • You can also try sweeping the cold spoons gently across bags under your eyes to reduce them. Press the backs of the spoons lightly against the puffy areas under your eyes, then slowly glide them out towards the outer corners of your eyes.

Method 3
Method 3 of 18:
Try putting cucumber slices on your eyes.

  1. Image titled Get Rid of Puffy Eyelids Step 3
    7
    10
    1
    The high water content in cucumbers hydrates your under eye skin. Cucumber also contains vitamin K, which may help reduce inflammation and discoloration. Slice a cucumber thinly and chill the slices in the fridge before you use them. Sit back somewhere comfy, close your eyes, and place a slice on each eye for 10-15 minutes.[3]
    • Make sure to give the cucumber a good wash or peel it before you put slices on your eyes.
    • Though there is no clinical trial that has measured how much cucumber slices can help the skin around your eyes, a trial did suggest that cucumber juice can help fight wrinkles and restore the natural elasticity of skin.[4]
    Advertisement

Method 4
Method 4 of 18:
Place potato slices over your eyes.

  1. Image titled Get Rid of Puffy Eyelids Step 4
    0
    2
    1
    Potatoes have a high water content, similar to cucumbers. As an added bonus, they stay cool longer! Peel the potato so you don’t get any dirt from the skin in your eyes, then slice it up and put it in the fridge until it’s chilled. Sit in a reclining position, close your eyes, and put a slice of potato on each eye. Let the slices sit for about 10-15 minutes to combat puffiness.[5]
    • Potatoes also have enzymes and astringent properties that reduce inflammation and tighten the skin.

Method 5
Method 5 of 18:
Press chilled tea bags against your eyes.

  1. Image titled Get Rid of Puffy Eyelids Step 5
    1
    1
    1
    The caffeine in tea can shrink blood vessels that cause puffy eyes. Make a pot or cup of tea with 2 black tea bags. Take the tea bags out and put them in the fridge for 20 minutes or so until they are nice and cool. Sit back, close your eyes, and put 1 tea bag on each eye for 5 minutes to refresh your skin.[6]
    • Note that the tea should be caffeinated, so don’t use herbal tea bags for this.
    Advertisement

Method 6
Method 6 of 18:
Apply a cold compress to reduce swelling.

  1. Image titled Get Rid of Puffy Eyelids Step 1
    0
    8
    1
    Close your eyes and put a cold compress on them for a few minutes. Ice can help soothe inflammation and swelling—it also feels nice when your eyes are swollen! If you don't have an ice pack, you can use a frozen bag of vegetables or a cloth soaked in cold water. Always wrap ice packs and frozen items in a clean towel so the ice isn't directly on your skin. Remove the compress after 5-10 minutes.[7]
    • Never use frozen meats for this, though! You could get bacteria in your eyes.[8]
    • Ice helps with swelling no matter what's causing your eye puffiness.

Method 7
Method 7 of 18:
Use a warm compress to soothe discomfort.

  1. Image titled Get Rid of Puffy Eyelids Step 2
    0
    4
    1
    Soak a cloth in warm water, wring it out, and apply it for 5 minutes. The warmth helps to soothe any pain in your eye area, especially if your upper eyelids are burning, itching, or crusted over. These symptoms are usually caused by a common condition called blepharitis. You can use a warm compress 2 or more times a day to help ease the discomfort a bit. If your symptoms don't ease up, visit your eye doctor for a checkup.[9]
    • Rewet the cloth when it stops feeling warm.[10]
    Advertisement

Method 8
Method 8 of 18:
Use eye drops if allergies are causing puffy eyes.

  1. Image titled Get Rid of Puffy Eyelids Step 3
    0
    2
    1
    The antihistamines in OTC allergy eye drops can reduce swelling. Puffy eyes are often caused by seasonal allergies. Eye drops can help! Always follow the package instructions for how much and how often to use the eye drops.[11]
    • You can buy these eye drops OTC at any drug or grocery store.
    • Taking an OTC oral antihistamine can also help if you have seasonal allergies![12]
    • If your eyes are dry and puffy, give OTC lubricating eye drops a try.

Method 9
Method 9 of 18:
Apply hemorrhoid cream to fight under-eye bags.

  1. Image titled Get Rid of Puffy Eyelids Step 4
    0
    8
    1
    Just don't get it on your upper eyelids and or in your eyes! The anti-inflammatory properties in OTC hemorrhoid creams can temporarily reduce swelling under your eyes, but be careful if you use it. The cream may irritate the super sensitive skin around your eyes and getting it in your eyes will definitely make them red and uncomfortable.[13]
    • Ingredients like phenylephrine help narrow the blood vessels and reduce swelling.
    • If you get the cream in your eyes, flush them with plenty of cool, clean water for several minutes. If your vision changes, call your doctor right away.
    Advertisement

Method 10
Method 10 of 18:
Try eye creams with caffeine for under-eye bags.

  1. Image titled Get Rid of Puffy Eyelids Step 5
    0
    10
    1
    Caffeine helps with swelling because it restricts blood vessels. If you don’t want to buy a new skin care product, that's understandable! Eye creams can be pricey. Brewed and chilled black tea bags may provide similar results—just place them over your eyes for 5-10 minutes.[14]

Method 11
Method 11 of 18:
Use gentle makeup and skincare products.

  1. Image titled Get Rid of Puffy Eyelids Step 6
    0
    7
    1
    If you develop swelling after using a new product, you may be allergic. Reactions to ingredients in soaps, cosmetics, hair dyes, and skincare products are really common! If you can’t figure out what’s causing the swelling, think about whether you’ve recently starting using any new products. If you have, stop using them and see if the swelling clears up in a day or so.[15]
    Advertisement

Method 12
Method 12 of 18:
Keep your hands away from your eyes.

  1. Image titled Get Rid of Puffy Eyelids Step 7
    0
    4
    1
    Touching and rubbing your eyes will just irritate them more. Touching your eye area can also spread bacteria that may lead to infections. Wash your hands frequently and resist the urge to touch the sensitive area around your eyes. If your eyes are watery, use a clean issue to gently wipe away the tears.[17]

Method 13
Method 13 of 18:
Remove your contact lenses if you wear them.

  1. Image titled Get Rid of Puffy Eyelids Step 8
    0
    9
    1
    Contact lenses usually increase eye irritation and swelling. No matter what’s causing your swollen eyelids, taking out your contact lenses for a bit will definitely help. Plus, if you think your eyes are swollen because of an infection, it’s important to avoid your contacts altogether so bacteria doesn't get on them.[18]
    • Giving your eyes an occasional mini-break from your contact lenses is a good idea whether your eyelids are swollen or not.
    Advertisement

Method 14
Method 14 of 18:
Sleep with your head elevated at night.

  1. Image titled Get Rid of Puffy Eyelids Step 9
    0
    6
    1
    This prevents fluid from pooling underneath your eyes. If you tend to wake up in the morning with puffy eyes and under-eye bags, this might help! Just prop your head up on an extra pillow to elevate your head a few inches. Try to sleep through the night on your back if you can.[19]

Method 15
Method 15 of 18:
Get 7-9 hours of sleep every night.

  1. Image titled Get Rid of Puffy Eyelids Step 10
    0
    8
    1
    Puffy eyelids are often caused by poor or lack of sleep. Depending on how your body responds to sleep debt, a lack of sleep may cause dark circles to appear under your eyes, puffiness in your eyelids, or a combination of both.[20] Adults should aim for 7-9 hours of sleep every night to wake up refreshed and prevent swelling around the eye area.[21]
    • Teens need a little more sleep than adults. Aim for 8-10 hours of sleep per night if you're a teenager.
    Advertisement

Method 16
Method 16 of 18:
Consume less salt in your diet.

  1. Image titled Get Rid of Puffy Eyelids Step 11
    0
    5
    1
    Diets that are high in sodium can cause eye puffiness. Salt causes your body to retain water and the buildup of excess fluid causes the puffiness you see in your eyelids.[22] Check the nutrition labels of the foods you eat to monitor how much sodium you’re eating each day.
    • The American Heart Association recommends consuming no more than 1,500 mg of sodium daily.[23]

Method 17
Method 17 of 18:
Quit smoking.

  1. Image titled Get Rid of Puffy Eyelids Step 17
    0
    2
    1
    Smoking can cause your thyroids to be overactive, leading to puffiness. If you’re a smoker and you regularly have puffy eyes, take steps to stop smoking now. Your overall health will improve, too![24]
    • If you’re having trouble quitting, ask your doctor for advice on how to stop, or enroll in a local stop smoking program for support.
    Advertisement

Method 18
Method 18 of 18:
See your doctor if the swelling persists.

  1. Image titled Get Rid of Puffy Eyelids Step 12
    0
    7
    1
    An infection may be causing prolonged swelling and redness. Eye conditions like pink eye are very common, especially in school age children and during flu season. If you have a red, tender lump on the edge of your eyelid, that’s most likely a stye, which is an infected eyelash follicle. It’s best to see your doctor about any eye issue that doesn’t go away on its own after a week.[25]
    • Once your doctor sorts out the cause, they may prescribe a topical antibiotic ointment, topical corticosteroid cream, oral antibiotics, steroidal eye drops, or antibiotic eye drops to knock out the issue.
    • If your puffiness is caused by aging or genetics, consider asking your doctor about cosmetic treatments like filler, laser resurfacing, and chemical peels. These procedures might help with the discomfort and boost your confidence![26]

Expert Q&A
Did you know you can get premium answers for this article? Unlock premium answers by supporting wikiHow

  • Question
    What causes puffy eyelids?
    Alicia Ramos
    Alicia Ramos
    Skincare Professional
    Alicia Ramos is a licensed aesthetician and the owner of Smoothe Denver in Denver, Colorado. She received her license at the School of Botanical & Medical Aesthetics, with training in lashes, dermaplaning, waxing, microdermabrasion, and chemical peels, and now provides skin care solutions to hundreds of clients.
    Alicia Ramos
    Alicia Ramos
    Skincare Professional
    Expert Answer

    Support wikiHow by unlocking this expert answer.

    Your eyes might look puffy if you're having an allergic reaction or if you haven't gotten enough sleep.
  • Question
    How do I get rid of puffy eyes naturally?
    Alicia Ramos
    Alicia Ramos
    Skincare Professional
    Alicia Ramos is a licensed aesthetician and the owner of Smoothe Denver in Denver, Colorado. She received her license at the School of Botanical & Medical Aesthetics, with training in lashes, dermaplaning, waxing, microdermabrasion, and chemical peels, and now provides skin care solutions to hundreds of clients.
    Alicia Ramos
    Alicia Ramos
    Skincare Professional
    Expert Answer

    Support wikiHow by unlocking this expert answer.

    Drink water every day and before bed so you stay hydrated. Otherwise, your skin could dry out.
  • Question
    How do you get rid of puffy eyelids fast?
    Laura Martin
    Laura Martin
    Licensed Cosmetologist
    Laura Martin is a Licensed Cosmetologist in Georgia. She has been a hair stylist since 2007 and a cosmetology teacher since 2013.
    Laura Martin
    Laura Martin
    Licensed Cosmetologist
    Expert Answer

    Support wikiHow by unlocking this expert answer.

    Wrap a washcloth over an ice cube and apply to your lid. You should see the swelling go down in a few minutes. Or, apply something else that's cold and calming. Cool cucumbers work well and smell great!
  • Question
    What causes puffy eyelids?
    Laura Martin
    Laura Martin
    Licensed Cosmetologist
    Laura Martin is a Licensed Cosmetologist in Georgia. She has been a hair stylist since 2007 and a cosmetology teacher since 2013.
    Laura Martin
    Laura Martin
    Licensed Cosmetologist
    Expert Answer

    Support wikiHow by unlocking this expert answer.

    Lots of things can cause eyelids to puff, such as sleeping, allergies, eye dryness, being tired, having PMS, being dehydrated, and crying.
  • Question
    Sometimes my left eye will have a swollen lid but both of my eyes are hooded. What should I do?
    Laura Martin
    Laura Martin
    Licensed Cosmetologist
    Laura Martin is a Licensed Cosmetologist in Georgia. She has been a hair stylist since 2007 and a cosmetology teacher since 2013.
    Laura Martin
    Laura Martin
    Licensed Cosmetologist
    Expert Answer

    Support wikiHow by unlocking this expert answer.

    If you sleep on your side it can cause one eye to swell. If this is the problem, switch to sleeping on your back with your head elevated by a couple of pillows. If this is not the problem it could be an allergy or infection. Hooded eyes would require surgery to correct. I recommend that you see a doctor.
  • Question
    How can I tighten my puffy eyelids?
    Laura Martin
    Laura Martin
    Licensed Cosmetologist
    Laura Martin is a Licensed Cosmetologist in Georgia. She has been a hair stylist since 2007 and a cosmetology teacher since 2013.
    Laura Martin
    Laura Martin
    Licensed Cosmetologist
    Expert Answer

    Support wikiHow by unlocking this expert answer.

    Steep 2 tea bags in warm water for a few minutes, cool them in the fridge, and then hold them on your eyelids for about 20 minutes. The caffeine and tannins found in most teas will reduce swelling!

You Might Also Like

Get Rid of Puffy Eyes from Crying
How to
Get Rid of Puffy Eyes from Crying
Reduce Puffy Eyes
How to
Reduce Puffy Eyes
Get Rid of a Red Eye
How to
Get Rid of a Red Eye
Quickly Get Rid of Bags Under Your Eyes
How to
Quickly Get Rid of Bags Under Your Eyes
Heal a Swollen Eyelid
How to
Heal a Swollen Eyelid
Get Rid of Black Circles Under Your Eyes
How to
Get Rid of Black Circles Under Your Eyes
How to
Reduce Eye Bags with Coffee Grounds
How to
Get Rid of Dark Circles Under Your Eyes Fast
Get Rid of Bags Under Your Eyes
How to
Get Rid of Bags Under Your Eyes
Get Rid of Bags Under Eyes Without Plastic Surgery
How to
Get Rid of Bags Under Eyes Without Plastic Surgery
Treat Ocular Rosacea
How to
Treat Ocular Rosacea
Improve Under Eye Skin
How to
Improve Under Eye Skin
Avoid Puffy Eyes in the Morning
How to
Avoid Puffy Eyes in the Morning
Prevent Eye Bags
How to
Prevent Eye Bags
Advertisement

References

  1. ↑ https://health.clevelandclinic.org/how-to-get-rid-of-bags-under-your-eyes/
  2. ↑ https://www.youtube.com/watch?t=10&v=xwQyl7ZI1m4&feature=youtu.be
  3. ↑ https://www.foodandwine.com/lifestyle/7-foods-you-can-put-your-eyes-get-rid-dark-circles?slide=3b273b56-0be2-45f4-9149-56214048da84#3b273b56-0be2-45f4-9149-56214048da84
  4. ↑ https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/21153830/
  5. ↑ https://www.foodandwine.com/lifestyle/7-foods-you-can-put-your-eyes-get-rid-dark-circles?slide=83496618-dd14-4574-98ba-7bdff98932d2#83496618-dd14-4574-98ba-7bdff98932d2
  6. ↑ https://www.healthywomen.org/your-wellness/how-get-rid-puffy-eyes
  7. ↑ https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/treatment-tests-and-therapies/how-to-get-rid-of-bags-under-your-eyes
  8. ↑ https://www.aao.org/eye-health/tips-prevention/injuries
  9. ↑ https://medlineplus.gov/ency/article/001619.htm
  1. ↑ https://www.aao.org/eye-health/diseases/what-is-blepharitis
  2. ↑ https://health.clevelandclinic.org/puffy-eyes-what-causes-them-and-what-to-do-about-it/
  3. ↑ https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/bags-under-eyes/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20369931
  4. ↑ https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/treatment-tests-and-therapies/how-to-get-rid-of-bags-under-your-eyes
  5. ↑ https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/treatment-tests-and-therapies/how-to-get-rid-of-bags-under-your-eyes
  6. ↑ https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/bags-under-eyes/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20369931
  7. ↑ Alicia Ramos. Skincare Professional. Expert Interview. 12 June 2019.
  8. ↑ https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/10032-blepharitis
  9. ↑ https://health.clevelandclinic.org/puffy-eyes-what-causes-them-and-what-to-do-about-it/
  10. ↑ https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/bags-under-eyes/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20369931
  11. ↑ Alicia Ramos. Skincare Professional. Expert Interview. 12 June 2019.
  12. ↑ https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/bags-under-eyes/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20369931
  13. ↑ Alicia Ramos. Skincare Professional. Expert Interview. 12 June 2019.
  14. ↑ https://www.heart.org/en/healthy-living/healthy-eating/eat-smart/sodium/how-to-track-your-sodium
  15. ↑ https://www.btf-thyroid.org/thyroid-eye-disease-leaflet
  16. ↑ https://www.aarp.org/health/conditions-treatments/info-2020/swollen-eyelids-watery-eyes-causes.html
  17. ↑ https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/treatment-tests-and-therapies/how-to-get-rid-of-bags-under-your-eyes

About This Article

Alicia Ramos
Co-authored by:
Alicia Ramos
Skincare Professional
This article was co-authored by Alicia Ramos. Alicia Ramos is a licensed aesthetician and the owner of Smoothe Denver in Denver, Colorado. She received her license at the School of Botanical & Medical Aesthetics, with training in lashes, dermaplaning, waxing, microdermabrasion, and chemical peels, and now provides skin care solutions to hundreds of clients. This article has been viewed 362,087 times.
1 votes - 0%
Co-authors: 27
Updated: August 26, 2021
Views: 362,087
Categories: Eye Skin Conditions (Circles and Puffiness)

Medical Disclaimer

The content of this article is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, examination, diagnosis, or treatment. You should always contact your doctor or other qualified healthcare professional before starting, changing, or stopping any kind of health treatment.

Article SummaryX

To make your eyelids less puffy, try pressing a cold spoon, ice compress, or cucumber slice to your eye. If your eyes are extra watery, gently tap your eyelids to reduce fluid buildup, then place thin potato slices over the swollen area for at least 10 minutes. If your eyes are incredibly dry, use over-the-counter eye drops to lubricate them. For tips from our reviewer on preventing eyelid swelling, scroll down!

Did this summary help you?
Advertisement