Retinol
Retinol is one of the best ingredients to include in your skincare routine for anti-aging purposes, but it can also have a profound effect on puffiness as well. “Retinol has been shown to improve collagen deficiency when applied once per day to your skin, half an hour after washing your face and is highly effective at minimizing puffiness,” explains consultant dermatologist Rachael Burns. Start using a gentle retinol serum every other night for a visibly smoother complexion, keeping fine lines and wrinkles at bay while reducing puffiness as well.
Micro-Needling
If you’re prepared to invest a little more money into eliminating puffiness from your skin, micro-needling may be a valuable treatment to look into. “The procedure involves using fine needles to puncture the skin which in turn creates a “controlled injury” that when managed correctly rejuvenates the treated area,” explains Burns. “My advice would be to speak to your local dermatologist about exploring the treatment as an option and avoid using at home kits as there are risks with the treatment.”
Eat Collagen & Antioxidant Rich Foods
Collagen is a naturally occurring protein, but as you grow older your body begins to produce less of it. Seeing as collagen is one of the main factors determining the elasticity of your face, eating collagen rich foods can help to preserve an ageless complexion while also fighting off inflammation which may give your eyes that puffy appearance in the morning. “Eating a diet that is rich in antioxidants has been shown to have a protective effect, whilst research has suggested that eating a diet that is high in processed foods, refined sugars and unhealthy fats can lead to skin damage and in some cases premature aging,” explains Burns. Therefore, foods which are rich in vitamin C can be particularly great for regularly beating morning puffiness. “Notable sources of vitamin C include blueberries, broccoli, guava, kiwi fruits, sweet potato, strawberries and blackcurrants.”