If your eyes are also red, itchy or watery, allergies are likely the reason for your puffy eyes. Allergens in the air (pollen, pet dander, you name it) hit the lining of your eyes and react with antibodies that release histamines, which cause swelling, along with other fun symptoms, like a runny nose.
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The Fix
For chronic allergy sufferers, Mariwalla advises popping an oral allergy pill daily (though be sure to check with your doc first). And, while it seems simple, washing your face regularly is an easy and effective way to keep allergens sticking to your lashes or lids. No matter what, resist the urge to rub your eyes, since this will only make matters worse.
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The Cause: Crying
Why, exactly, do you look so puffy after watching "The Notebook?" During a good cry sesh, the fine tissue around your eyes absorbs the excess flow of tears, creating, you guessed it, puffiness. But there's no need to cry over that news. This swelling is temporary and can be easily remedied.
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The Fix
Chill out, literally. Cold temps constrict the blood vessels around and under the eyes, quickly tamping down swelling. Use a cold compress, a bag of frozen peas, two cold spoons, chilled cucumber slices — as long as it's cold, it will help. To that point, eye creams with rollerball applicators are especially effective (stash them in the fridge for even more benefits). Not only is the metal tip cooling, massaging the rollerball under your eyes helps break up and flush out some of the built-up fluid. Try Garnier SkinActive Clearly Brighter Anti-Puff Eye Roller, $9.87.
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The Cause: Diet
If you wake up with puffy eyes, what you ate and drank last night may be to blame. We're talking salt and alcohol, specifically. Excess sodium intake triggers your kidneys to tell your bod to retain more water, which is why your face, tummy, hands and feet may also be swollen the next day. A build-up of toxins from one too many glasses of vino can also cause swelling.
