How to Brighten Up Tired Eyes This Winter
It’s 7 a.m. and the alarm clock screams for you to get up and drag yourself out of your warm slumber.
Once in the bathroom, you peer into the mirror but don’t like what you see: dark circles and tired eyes.
Winter can certainly wreak havoc on your entire routine, including your beauty routine.
However, there are some things that you can do to make your eyes sparkle if they’re red, scratchy, and looking worse for wear.
Keep reading for tips to brighten up tired eyes this winter and incorporate them into your daily beauty routine — you’ll look brighter and better than ever.
Avoid Dry Air
Dry air can affect your eyes, especially at high altitudes, in dry climates, and in airplanes. High winds and smoke can dry out eyes, along with hairdryers, ceiling fans, and heaters that blow directly into your eyes.
When your eyes are not moisturized, they get irritated, scratchy, and red. It’s best to avoid dry air and use eye drops to hydrate eyes in dry climates.
Green Tea Bags
Green tea bags can soothe puffy, swollen, or irritated eyes when placed on eyelids. Additionally, steeped and cooled green tea bags placed on the eyes for 10 minutes may stop swelling and any discomfort.
One report suggests green tea bags have polyphenol or epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG) and serve as an anti-inflammatory.
Increase Omega Fatty Acids
According to one study, omega-3, and omega-6 fatty acid supplements are good for the eyes and could relive those suffering from dry eye.
To keep your eyes well-hydrated and healthy, increase your intake of fatty acids. Omega fatty acids include salmon, mackerel, walnuts, chia, and flax seeds, or you can always take a daily supplement.
Cucumbers for Puffiness
Cucumbers have strong antioxidant and anti-inflammatory elements as well as vitamin C that can soothe tired skin and eyes.
Cut two cucumber slices about a half-inch thick, lay down, and apply a slice to each eyelid for 15 minutes to help refresh eyes and the surrounding skin.
Good Night’s Sleep
A lack of sleep can result in tired-looking eyes and dark circles. We suggest getting 7-9 hours of sleep to wake up radiant and refreshed.
Protect Eyes from UV Rays
Protecting your eyes from the sun’s rays can prevent dry eyes and the risk of sunburn on eyelids or under the eyes.
Wearing sunglasses with ultraviolet (UV) protection when exposed to direct sunlight can protect your eyes from these harmful rays, as well as shield your eyes from the elements.
Drink Lots of Water
Staying hydrated helps overall health, as well as eyes and skin, so we recommend drinking at least eight 8-ounce glasses of water each day. Doing so helps the body stay hydrated and keeps your eyes lubricated and moist.
Eye Breaks
If you read a lot or sit at a computer screen, take eye breaks at least every 20 minutes. Focusing on one area causes eyes to become dry, tired, or irritated.
Use Eye Drops or Artificial Tears
As you age, your eyes become more prone to dry eyes. Dry eyes can also happen due to contact lens use, medications, and allergies. Artificial eye drops or tears purchased over the counter may also help keep eyes moist.
Limit Salty Foods
Too much salt causes water retention which in turn has an inflammatory effect and could cause puffiness around the eyes and increase blood pressure. Try to limit daily sodium intake to less than 2,300 milligrams (2.3 grams) — or 1 teaspoon of salt per day.
Cold Compresses, Spoons
Another way to keep puffiness away is to use a cold compress like a washcloth soaked in chilly water for 10 minutes to soothe and ease inflammation.
You can also try putting two spoons in the freezer and when cold, place them on your eyes for a few minutes to relieve puffiness.
Looking Refreshed
If all else fails, the Bronze Duo Highlighter & Eye Brightener from Lique Cosmetics is a lightweight, vegan formula infused with menthol and penetrates the skin for a long-lasting and dewy appearance.
From cucumbers to highlighters, any or all these tips might help your eyes look healthier and alleviate that tired, red, irritated, and puffy appearance.
So, the next time the alarm goes off and you make your way into the bathroom, take a gander in the mirror and you'll look more bright-eyed and bushy-tailed!