Woke up with tired, swollen eyes? It happens to the best of us. But here’s the good news: puffy eyes are common, manageable, and often reversible with the right care.
Whether you’re dealing with post-snooze swelling or want to prevent future puffiness, there are proven strategies—from cooling techniques to smart hydration and targeted eye creams—that can work wonders. With help from the experts, let’s explore how to get rid of puffy eyes, support your under-eye skin, and feel your best.
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What causes puffy eyes?
Puffy eyes happen when fluid collects in the thin, sensitive tissue around your eyes—especially in the morning or after certain triggers like lack of sleep, dehydration, or alcohol. Over time, this swelling can become more frequent due to natural skin aging.
“The skin under the eyes is thinner and more delicate than the rest of the face, making the signs of aging more visible. It also naturally has a lower amount of collagen and elastin fibers,” says Martina Trabacchi, ISDIN Medical Affairs Lead. This makes it easier for puffiness to appear and harder for it to go away on its own.
That’s why trying to get rid of puffy under eyes quickly might not always be so quick—but there are a few steps you can take to help.
Tips to help get rid of puffy eyes
1. Hydrate from the inside out
One of the most common (and overlooked) causes of under-eye puffiness is dehydration. When your body lacks water, it tries to hold onto it—which can lead to puffiness around the eyes and elsewhere.
Try this:
- Aim for around eight 8-ounce glasses of water a day (the 8×8 rule), and more if it’s hot or you’re exercising.
- Use a gentle, hydrating eye treatment daily.
2. Rethink your evening habits
Your nightly glass of wine or salty snacks could be working against your skin. “Both alcohol and high-sodium foods can cause fluid retention and leave your eyes looking more swollen by morning,” cautions Trabacchi.
What helps:
- Cut back on alcohol (especially the night before a big day).
- Opt for skin-loving foods rich in antioxidants and hydration, like cucumbers, berries, and leafy greens.
- Try limiting salt in your evening meal to prevent puffiness by morning.
3. Sleep smarter, not just longer
It’s true: science shows that sleep matters when it comes to eye bags—but so does how you sleep. Poor-quality sleep (or sleeping face-down) can worsen puffiness. Focus on building a nightly routine that supports your skin, too.
To reduce puffy eyes overnight:
- Stick to a consistent sleep schedule, even on weekends.
- Sleep slightly elevated with an extra pillow to help prevent fluid from pooling around your eyes.
- Avoid screens an hour before bed to support melatonin production.
- Create a wind-down ritual—think soft lighting, herbal tea, or light stretching.
4. Cool down
Hoping to get rid of puffy eyes quick? Turn to one of these refreshing tricks:
- Use a chilled teaspoon, jade roller, or under-eye patches kept in the fridge.
- Steep two green tea bags, let them cool, and rest them over your eyes for 10 minutes.
- Use a cooling eye cream applicator to help depuff while treating.
Trabacchi adds on a final reminder, “These temporary fixes work best when paired with long-term habits like hydration, sleep, and personalized skincare.”
5. Choose an eye cream with intention
A science-backed eye cream can be your best ally—not just for short-term relief, but for long-term skin support. Look for ingredients like:
- Vitamin K oxide to help brighten
- Hyaluronic acid for hydration and plumping
- Peptides for a firming, depuffing effect
K-Ox Eyes is a fan favorite for good reason: it visibly reduces bags, puffiness, and dark circles while rejuvenating the under-eye area with continued use. Apply with a gentle tapping and smoothing motion (no tugging) both morning and night.
“I started out using it because a friend told me I had to try it, so I borrowed hers. She knows my puffy eyes and dark circles are my biggest insecurities. I have to say after years of trying products that didn’t work, I was the happiest I’ve ever been using [K-Ox Eyes]!”
– Isdinlover Patricia A.
Your questions answered
How do I get rid of puffy eyelids fast?
Start by applying a cold compress, drinking water, and gently massaging your lids with a chilled roller or applicator. As for long-term care, opt for a 360° eye gel with a soothing, cooling effect. And finally, make sure to check in with your dermatologist if things persist.
What is the fastest way to get rid of puffy eyes in the morning?
Combine a cold application (like a jade roller or cold spoon) with a targeted eye cream. After checking the label for storage instructions, keep any apt products in the fridge to enhance their effect.
Are puffy eyes permanent?
The good news is that most of the time puffiness is only temporary. But if it’s frequent or worsens with age, consistent care—like hydration, sleep, and active skincare—is key to minimizing it long term.
Can skincare really help with under-eye puffiness?
Definitely! With consistent use, advanced products like K-Ox Eyes can deliver visible results in a matter of weeks.
A little goes a long way
Puffy eyes don’t have to define your day. By understanding the root causes and choosing science-backed solutions, you can create a skincare routine that supports bright, rested-looking eyes—and helps you feel more confident in your skin.
A cooling touch, a splash of hydration, or your favorite eye cream—whether you turn to a quick depuffing trick or are ready to commit to a full skincare routine, prioritizing self-care is the first step.
Because when you take care of yourself, everything else tends to fall into place, too.
Sources and references:
https://www.cdc.gov/features/sleep/index.html
https://www.health.harvard.edu/staying-healthy/blue-light-has-a-dark-side
https://www.drinkaware.co.uk/alcohol-facts/health-effects-of-alcohol/appearance/how-alcohol-affects-your-appearance/
Behind the blog:
Article written and reviewed by:
Amy is a content strategist who turned a part-time obsession with skincare into a full-time passion. Her experience as a creative storyteller includes a range of lifestyle and technology topics across Washington D.C. and Barcelona. What's in her travel bag? Eye contour cream and sunscreen, always.
Martina Trabacchi
Martina is a pharmacist with a strong passion for cosmetics. Originally from Italy, she has a large experience in the pharmaceutical field. As for skincare, she always uses vitamin C before applying her SPF and retinal at night.
