Puffy, Dark Under-Eyes? A Board-Certified Derm Shares The Best Techniques To Try If Your Eyes Are ‘Puffier Than A Pillow’
March 23, 2025 by Lisa Cupido
If your under eyes are “puffier than a pillow,” there are a few techniques you can try to wake them up, reduce inflammation and that tired look we all know so well, and feel and look more refreshed. Believe it or not, most of these techniques don’t cost a lot of money — one is absolutely free.
One dermatologist took to TikTok refusing to “gatekeep” her best puffy under-eye hacks.
These four techniques work brilliantly in the morning, when you wake up after not sleeping well or having had a very salty dinner that seems to have sapped your skin of moisture. Grab a cold spoon or a great eye cream (with one superstar ingredient you need to know about) and let’s get to de-puffing.
1. Cold Spoon
The simplest and most affordable took you have in your kitchen right now that can help de-puff eyes is a spoon. Your spoon will naturally be cooling, but feel free to pop it in the fridge for a few minutes, too. Using light pressure, press the rounded side under your eyes and then move it in a circular motion back and forth for 1-2 minutes.
2. Jade Roller
There is some debate about whether jade rollers can actually benefit your skin, but here’s one instance where they can make a difference: rolling over puffy under eyes can help calm the area, cool it down, and reduce swelling. Use light rolling motions and don’t press too hard.
3. Eye Cream Containing Caffeine
A hydrating eye cream that contains one key ingredient — caffeine — can go a long way toward relieving puffiness under your eyes. We love Mario Badescu Caffeine Eye Cream, which is oil-free, vegan, and also contains nourishing and hydrating jojoba oil.
4. Green Tea Bags
Green tea contains anti-inflammatory properties and antioxidants. In addition to its caffeine content, which is great for de-puffing, it has tannins that tighten skin and a cooling effect to constrict blood vessels and reduce swelling. Steep the bags and then chill them. Leave the tea bags on for 10-15 minutes.