We've all been there: Waking up in the morning, looking in the mirror and realizing that you've got some serious eye bags that you need to get rid of quickly. Whether your under-eye bags are a result of lack of sleep, stress, or dehydration, here's a 2-second trick that will de-puff your under-eye area in no time!
[Photos: Shutterstock]
The cucumber-over-the-eye trick may be a cliché, but it is a quick and easy fix for under-eye bags--and it actually works! “If puffiness is accompanied by irritation, home remedies like cucumbers or chamomile tea can help reduce the inflammation and swelling,” says dermatologist Dr. Gregory Nikolaidis. “Cucumbers have powerful antioxidants and flavinoids that are thought to reduce irritation."
No cucumbers? Then, tea bags may work just as well to reduce under-eye bags. "Caffeinated tea, which contains natural tannins, is a mild diuretic and long used by grandmothers and runway models for reducing eye puffiness," says dermatologist Karen Hammerman. "Soak two tea bags in warm water, then chill the bags for a few minutes in the refrigerator. Place one tea bag on each eye for five minutes, and your eyes will feel fresh and look brighter."
Dr. Nikolaidis recommends using chamomile tea as they'll be the most effective! We love Tazo Calm Chamomile Herbal Tea ($3.09)!
If all else fails, you can always use a chilled gel eye mask. "When used properly, a gel eye mask can reduce puffiness, dark circles around the eyes, and inflammation caused by allergens," The Dermatology Review reports. "A chilled gel eye mask can help to constrict the blood vessels in the skin under the eyes, which reduces the appearance of dark circles."
We love this Target brand Hot+Cold Gel Bead Eye Mask ($8.79) that can be microwaved for heat, or chilled in the freezer.
What tips and tricks do you have for getting rid of under-eye bags? Let us know in the comments below!