All practices
Home remedies & rituals
Cold compress for the eyes
Two minutes of cold on closed eyes — the oldest and cheapest morning de-puffing trick there is.
About 3 minutes
Mornings as needed
How to do it
- 1Chill two clean spoons, a gel mask or a damp flannel.
- 2Rest on closed eyes for one to three minutes.
- 3Follow with your usual moisturiser.
What the evidence says
Cold causes short-term constriction of surface vessels. The effect is real, immediate and temporary.
Be careful if
- •Never apply ice directly to skin.
- •Persistent one-sided or painful swelling should be checked by a doctor.
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Practices are listed for general information only. Nothing here is medical advice, a diagnosis, or a treatment for any condition, and results are not promised. If something hurts, worsens, or worries you — or if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, managing a health condition or taking prescribed medication — speak to a doctor, pharmacist or qualified practitioner first.