DIY Homemade Soothing Eye Masks and Treatments
There may be many causes and many factors for puffy eyes and dark circles such as lack of sleep, too much salt intake, alcohol, and nicotine. A common belief about these dark circles is that it is a result of blood pooling under the eyes. Because of this, many under eye creams contain caffeine and Vitamin K to increase the circulation under the eyes.
Some popular ingredients used to sooth eyes include aloe. It is one of the most popular botanicals used in skin care and cosmetics because of its hydrating, healing, softening, anti-microbial and anti-inflammatory properties. And of course cucumbers are a favorite for the eye area. Cucumbers reduce puffiness, have anti-oxidants that reduce irritation, and the cooling effects reduce swelling and inflammation. Chamomile is a plant extract with calming and soothing properties. Chamomile can help reduce inflammation and swelling. Vitamin K and vitamin E are other common ingredients used in under eye products.
To Use Chamomile Tea Bags - Place cold chamomile tea bags on your eyes. Rinse two new teabags in cold water for approximately 30 seconds. Place the tea bags over your closed eyes for approximately 10 minutes, then throw the tea bags away. The tannins in the tea bags will reduce swelling, and the moisture of the wet tea bag will absorb into your eyes.
To Use Cucumber Slices - Apply thin cut cucumber slices to your closed eyes while lying down. Cucumbers are high in water content and will soothe the bags under your eyes while they moisturize. Leave the cucumber on your eyes for 15 minutes, then throw the slices away.
To Use Aloe - Apply aloe underneath your eyes before putting on makeup or any moisturizer. You can either use fresh aloe or aloe vera gel. To use fresh aloe, break a leaf from a fresh aloe plant, and remove some of the gel from inside. Using your fingers, gently rub the gel into the bags under your eyes until they are absorbed completely. Aloe is a natural source of moisture that will soothe and protect your eyes.
