Waking up to swollen, puffy eyes is enough to make anyone go back to bed and hide under the covers. You might think not getting enough sleep or emotional upset are the reasons , but it’s a bit more complex than that. Habits, imbalanced nutrition, seasonal allergies, working for long-hours in front of computer/mobiles and even hereditary may be factors here. Today, we address how to calm swollen, puffy eyes, immediately and long-term through Ayurveda.
Puffy Eyes & Dark Circles : The Causes
The skin around the eyes is very thin, sensitive and delicate and because of this is the first place signs of aging begin to show. One if the ways this presents itself is swollen pouches under the eyes, often accompanied by loose skin and dark circles.
Lack of sleep, dehydration, fluid retention, excess sodium intake, hormonal fluctuations, sinus infections, thinning skin, and seasonal allergies can all cause fluids to build-up around the under-eye area which results in swelling (or periorbital edema).
According to Ayurveda, rise of fire (inflammation) elements in thre body triggers this swelling. To counterbalance this and calm the inflamation the body needs rehydration.
Ways to Calm Swollen Eyes Naturally
These ten natural solutions not only remove under eye bags and signs of stress, but also offer a few moments of relaxation and calmness in your busy day.
1. Green Tea
Green Tea is practically a magic potion for the skin around eyes. Packed with antioxidants as well as anti-inflammatory compounds, makes it an optimal treatment for under eye swelling and puffyness. While the tannins in Green Tea act as a gentle astringent, caffeine constricts the flow of deoxygenated blood that cause puffiness and swelling.
2. Aloe Vera Gel
Containing 18 amino acids and several antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory compounds, Aloe Vera has amazing healing and moisturizing benefits to soothe and calm puffy eyes. Aloe also reduces the appearance of Crow’s feet and prevents formation of wrinkles.
Did you know? Puraveda Organics Aloe Eye Serum is a day time moisturizing treatment serum that contains vitamin infused Aloe Vera gel, Almond, Bilberry, Skullcap, Alfalfa, Carrot Seed Oil (and 19 others) wildcrafted botanicals. This skin refresher revitalizes and rejuvenates the eye area quickly and is your secret weapon against fine lines around the eyes.
3. Vitamin A
Naturally sourced retinols (Vitamin A) are scientifically proven to increase skin cell turnover, fade discoloration, protect skin with antioxidant benefits, increase collagen production, build elastin and increase skin thickness – all of which helps to prevent under eye puffiness and dark circles.
4. Vitamin C
If you have extremely thin skin around the eyes, natural Vitamin C ( a water soluble Vitamin) from fruits such as Lemons and Oranges can be a big part of the solution. When used topically, the antioxidants in Vitamin C promote collagen production, regulate abnormal pigment production and release fluid retention. It also protects the skin around the eyes from UV/sun damage, photoaging and age spots.
5. Rose
Rose Water is a well-known natural astringent or a toner that incredibly refreshes and rejuvenates the skin. Rose water/rose essential oil is packed with Vitamin A, C, Flavonoids, Citric Acid, Malic Acid, Zinc and Antioxidants which not only reduce swelling, but also clearing dark circles. A dab of rose water around the eyes instantly destresses strained eyes and alleviates burning. As a bonus… the fragrance of pure rose essential oil is incredibly mood uplifting!
6. Sweet Almond Oil
Rich in Vitamin A (Retinol), Vitamin E, Minerals and Proteins, Sweet Almond Oil not only reduces eye bags, but also tightens the thin skin around eyes. Massaging almond oil in the eye contour area contracts the dilated blood vessels and reduces water retention, keeping the delicate skin around the eyes smooth, without irritating it.
7. Bilberry
The fruits of this wild plant are of great therapeutic value because of its high Anthocyanin and Vitamin A content. Bilberries make a perfect ingredient in natural eye serums as they can strengthen blood vessels and the veins around the eyes to help reduce dark circles and puffiness.
8. Hydration
Water flushes excess fluids and toxins from the body. While it may sound counterintuitive, drinking plenty of water is a natuasl diuretic and benefits the skin in many ways.
Woking from the outside, the topical application of anti-aging serums containing Hyaluronic Acid corrects moisture/dosha imbalance by boosting protective moisture levels to prevent creasing, sagging and aging of skin around the eyes.
9. Lifestyle Check
- Watch your diet – moderate the consumption of alcohol and sugar or salt-rich foods.
- Remove makeup and contact lenses before bed.
- Get enough sleep! Have a dedicated night time skin care regimen and make your environment condusive to a deep, restful sleep every night.
- Keep allergies in check.
10. Eye Contour Massage
It is important to drain cellular waste build-up that is caused by stagnant, sluggish or impaired lymph system around the eyes. Puraveda Organics Eyeline Prevention Oil comes with a convenient roll-on applicator that soothes the nerves and helps in draining excessive fluid build-up. While using the applicator, start underneath the eye and move the massage applicator outwards for a few minutes. Repeat the same steps on the opposite eye area and leave overnight.
Did you know? Eyeline Prevention Oil is packed with ingredients like Hempseed, Sunflower, Grapeseed, Almond, Bilberry, Calendula, Rose and various other organic herbs and oils that penetrate deeply into the skin around the eyes to firm and brighten, repair cell membranes and encourage cell growth.
Our Effective Organic Skincare Range to Get rid of Eye Bags
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