How to Get Rid of Puffy Eyelids

Puffy eyelids are characterized by the appearance of swollen eyelids, dry and itchy eyes and difficulty opening the eyes due to swelling around the corners or tops of the eyelids. While chronically puffy eyelids (blepharitis) may require a doctor's examination, puffy eyelids can typically be alleviated through preventative measures and a variety of simple home treatments. Try any one of these treatments at a time to see which is easiest and most effective for you.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• 2-3 ice cubes
• Plastic sandwich bag
• Washcloth
• Steaming (not boiling) water
• 1 teaspoon sea salt
• Cotton or woolen eyepads
• Rose Water or Witch Hazel
• Four slices of raw potato or cucumber

Ice Water Press

1. Wrap ice cubes in a plastic sandwich bag.

2. Wrap the plastic sandwich bag in a washcloth.

3. Place the ice gently on closed eyelids.

4. Repeat until puffiness is alleviated.

Hot Water Press

5. Mix half a pint of warm, steaming water with a teaspoon of sea salt.

6. Soak two eye pads in the resulting saline solution.

7. Place an eye pad on closed eyelids for five to 10 minutes.

8. Wring out the cooled eye pads.

9. Repeat the process until symptoms vanish.

Rose Water/Witch Hazel Press

10. Soak two eye pads in either rose water or witch hazel.

11. Place an eye pad on each closed eyelid for 15 to 20 minutes.

12. Remove eye pads. Puffiness should be minimal.

13. Place slices of raw potato or cucumber directly on closed eyelids, as another option.

Tips & Warnings

• While genetics may leave you more prone to developing puffy eyelids, puffiness can often be avoided by receiving a healthy amount of sleep (at least eight hours), and staying well-hydrated. Eat a balanced diet, and consume alcohol in moderation. Remove contact lenses before sleeping every night unless you have contacts specifically designed for nighttime. Take care to avoid allergens you may react to, such as ragweed, and avoid using moisturizers near the eye if they contain toxins or fragrances. Such precautions can deter puffiness altogether.

References

• Eye Care Basics---Tips to Get Rid of Puffy Eyelids
• Eye Doctor Guide---Treating Puffy Eyelids

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