By Anna Deutsch

The skin around your eyes is extremely delicate and can puff up for any number of reasons, such as allergies, fatigue or crying. A healthy lifestyle (plenty of sleep, a balanced diet, limited alcohol) is the first step towards reducing puffiness. However, since that is easier said than done here are a few additional suggestions:

∙ Drink plenty of water throughout the day.

∙ Wash your face with very cold water when you wake up in the morning.

∙ Your eyes are sensitive, so your usual moisturizer is too strong. Get an eye-specific cream. Do not rub in eye cream, but instead dab small amounts across the cheek bones and tap it in towards your ears. Use very little when applying to lids.

3 suggestions:

-Keihl ’ s Abyssine Eye Cream (with Vitamin E)

-Clinique All About Eyes (lightweight, can go under makeup)

-Neutrogena Healthy Defense Daily Eye Cream (SPF 30 and available with a tint)

∙ Try using natural remedies to improve puffiness. They are safe and usually effective, although results will vary from person to person.

-Wet tea bags (chamomile works well) with lukewarm water and place them on your closed eyes for about 15 minutes.

-Slice fresh cucumber and place it on your closed eyes for about 15 minutes. Some people suggest the using potatos as well.

-Dissolve a pinch of salt in hot water and soak it with a towel; place the towel over your closed eyes for about 15 minutes.

***Be careful: Some people suggest using Hemorrhoid cream to reduce puffiness, but there is no clinical evidence to back this up.