How to help make morning-after puffy eyes disappear

If you woke up this morning with swollen, puffy bags under your eyes, here are a few simple do-it-yourself remedies to help make them disappear.

Remember how old-time Hollywood actresses used to put cucumber slices on their eyelids? This is one old-fashioned remedy that still works — and if you don't have cucumbers, you can also use cold potatoes.

• Both cucumbers and potatoes have natural astringent properties that can help decrease swelling. Simply place the slices on your puffy lids for about 10 minutes. You'll be amazed at the difference!

Chilled caffeinated tea bags make an ideal compress for puffy eyes because they contain tannins, a natural anti-inflammatory, as well as caffeine, which draws excess water away and shrinks blood vessels.

• Place the bags in hot water for a few minutes, squeeze them out, and chill them in the refrigerator. Close your eyes and place the chilled bags on your lids for at least 20 minutes.
• Green tea works especially well because it contains antioxidants.
• You can also use herbal teas such as chamomile, which also is known to have anti-inflammatory properties.

When it comes to puffy eyes, a little egg on your face can be a good thing.

• Just whip up one egg white until it's stiff, then apply it with a soft cloth or makeup brush to the swollen areas around your eyelids.
• Egg white has protein and plenty of anti-inflammatory agents that can help reduce the appearance of swelling.

You may not be in the habit of putting your silverware in the fridge, but cold spoons make a great instant remedy for morning-after puffy eyes.

• Simply place the curved side of the spoon against your closed eyelids for a few minutes until the spoon gets warm.
• This trick works great if you're pressed for time – just remember to keep two spoons chilled so you can treat both eyes at once!

Drinking plenty of water will flush out the salts that may cause water retention, which in turn causes facial puffiness and bloating.

• Beware of coffee, because caffeine dehydrates your system. Likewise, alcohol has a dehydrating effect on the body.

To avoid the possibility of waking up with puffy eyes, the best thing you can do is to get a good night's sleep.

• Fatigue has a way of ageing the face, especially because of the dark rings that may form under the eyes.

If some quality slumber isn't possible, try to have a potato, a couple of tea bags or spoons ready in the refrigerator. These simple remedies can help your eyes look rested, refreshed and ready for a new day.