How to Eliminate Baggy Eyes
Whether it's too little sleep or an unexpected allergy attack, baggy eyes can pop up at a moment's notice. You can help eliminate unsightly eye bags by using short-term solutions that deflate the bags under your eyes for a smoother, more youthful appearance.
Whether it's too little sleep or an unexpected allergy attack, baggy eyes can pop up at a moment's notice. You can help eliminate unsightly eye bags by using short-term solutions that deflate the bags under your eyes for a smoother, more youthful appearance. These preventative techniques will make your eyes look less puffy and tired.
Step 1
Roll up a towel and place it underneath the top of your bed so that your head is elevated -- or try sleeping in a recliner. As you sleep, excess fluid can pool beneath the thin skin pockets under your eyes, which is one of the main culprits of puffy eyes. By sleeping in an elevated position, you can avoid the pooling and wake up with fresher-looking eyes, according to "Real Simple" magazine.
Step 2
Keep a jar of eye moisturizer in your refrigerator and apply it first thing in the morning. According to dermatologist Jody A. Levine, M.D., the massaging motion of your fingers along the bottom of your eyes can help diffuse puffiness. Dr. Levine told "Good Housekeeping" magazine that cool cream can help shrink blood vessels and reduce swelling that can cause darkened, puffy eyes. Using a cold compress or applying cold teabags to the eyes can offer similar results.
Step 3
Tap the areas under your eyes when you first get up in the morning. While it may take a few minutes for the fluid under your eyes to dissipate when you first wake up, gently tapping your finger under your eye can help expedite the process.
Step 4
Take an antihistamine if you suffer from allergy symptoms or have a cold which causes nasal congestion, says the Mayo Clinic. When your sinuses and nasal passages are congested, the dark vessels between your nose and eyes can darken and swell -- resulting in dark circles and puffy eyes. By taking an antihistamine, you can reduce puffiness while managing your other allergy symptoms. If they persist, talk to your doctor about long-term allergy medication and management.
Step 5
Sleep at least seven to nine hours each night, as recommended by the National Sleep Foundation. When you're tired, the vessels under your eyes are prone to dilation, resulting in puffiness and dark circles.