Puffy eyes are a common beauty concern affecting people of all ages. Causes range from ageing and genetics to lack of sleep, allergies, smoking, and high sodium intake. While home remedies like cold spoons or tea bags may offer temporary relief, specialised products with active ingredients can be more effective.
Dr Rita Rakus, founder of a Knightsbridge cosmetic clinic, notes that ageing weakens muscles around the eyes, allowing fat to move into lower eyelids. Dr Kuldeep Minocha of Tempus adds that lack of sleep reduces collagen, allergies cause fluid buildup, and smoking irritates the area, worsening puffiness.
Effective eye depuffing products often contain caffeine, green tea extract, vitamin C, and aloe vera. These ingredients brighten, firm, and soothe the delicate periorbital area. Light, breathable textures are recommended to avoid overloading the skin. Gentle tapping or massage improves microcirculation without stretching, and storing products in the fridge or using a jade roller enhances results.
Notable products include Tula's bestselling cooling balm with rosehip oil, plant-based retinol alternatives, and caffeine; Clinique's lightweight, breathable formula suitable under makeup; 111SKIN's Rose Gold patches with natriance, pomegranate seed cell culture, and colloidal gold; Sunday Riley's depuffing cream with caffeine, horse chestnut, and Brazilian ginseng; and a cooling rollerball-tipped serum for a meditative application.
