The Science Behind the Tears: Why Crying Causes Red and Puffy Eyes

We’ve all experienced the aftermath of a good cry: red, puffy eyes staring back at us from the mirror. But what exactly causes this phenomenon? According to Maya K. Thosani, MD, FAAD, FACMS, a board-certified dermatologist at Modern Dermatology in Arizona, Crying leads to fluid retention in the tissues around the eyes, and the vessels around the eyes tend to dilate and cause more redness.

Beyond fluid retention, the composition of tears plays a role. Tears contain salt, which can exacerbate puffiness. The salt can contribute to puffiness by pulling water into the surrounding tissues, according to experts. Furthermore, the act of crying often involves rubbing or blotting the eyes, which can further irritate the delicate skin around the eyes.

Sylvia Brownlee,esthetician and founder of Skin By Brownlee & Co,adds another layer to the clarification.The skin around the eyes is very delicate and sensitive, which can cause irritation and inflammation, Brownlee says. Crying also triggers the release of stress hormones which can lead to mild swelling and puffiness due to fluid retention.

8 Proven Ways to Soothe Red and Puffy eyes

Fortunately, there are several effective strategies to combat post-cry puffiness and redness. Here are eight expert-recommended methods:

1. Use a Cold compress

   Applying a cold compress is a classic remedy for reducing swelling and redness. Dr. Thosani explains,Using a cold compress helps constrict the vessels,soothe the red skin,and help decrease the swelling. For a natural alternative, Dr. Thosani suggests using chilled cucumber slices or cold tea bags.

2. Cryotherapy

   Cryotherapy involves using cold temperatures to reduce inflammation and swelling. While professional cryotherapy treatments exist, you can achieve similar effects at home with specialized cryo tools designed for facial use. These tools, frequently enough made of metal or glass, can be chilled in the freezer and then gently massaged around the eyes to constrict blood vessels and reduce puffiness.

3. Lymphatic Drainage Massage

   Lymphatic drainage massage is a gentle technique that helps to move excess fluid away from the eye area. Using light pressure and circular motions, massage from the inner corner of the eye towards the outer corner, following the natural lymphatic pathways.This can definitely help to reduce fluid buildup and alleviate puffiness.

4. Caffeine-Based Eye Creams

   Caffeine is known for its vasoconstricting properties, meaning it can definitely help to narrow blood vessels and reduce redness. Caffeine-based eye creams can help to minimize the appearance of dark circles and puffiness around the eyes. Apply a small amount of cream to the under-eye area, gently patting it in until absorbed.

5. Hydrating Eye Drops

   crying can frequently enough lead to dryness and irritation in the eyes. Hydrating eye drops, also known as artificial tears, can help to relieve this discomfort by lubricating the eyes and restoring moisture. Use eye drops as needed to keep your eyes feeling comfortable and refreshed.

6. Elevate Your Head

   Sleeping with your head elevated can help to prevent fluid from accumulating around the eyes overnight. use an extra pillow or adjust your bed to a slightly inclined position to promote drainage and reduce morning puffiness.

7. Avoid Rubbing your Eyes

   Rubbing your eyes can further irritate the delicate skin around the eyes, worsening redness and puffiness. Resist the urge to rub, and instead, gently pat the area with a soft cloth if needed.

8. Cool Water Rinse

   A rapid rinse with cool water can help to calm irritated skin and provide immediate relief.Splash cool water over your face and eye area to constrict blood vessels and reduce inflammation.

Banishing the Blues: Expert Insights on Soothing Red and Puffy Eyes After Crying

Did you know that the delicate skin around your eyes is particularly susceptible to inflammation and puffiness after crying? Let’s delve deeper into the science behind teary eyes and explore effective strategies for soothing the irritation and swelling.

In an interview, Dr. Evelyn Reed, Ophthalmologist and skincare expert, shared her expertise on the matter.

When asked about the underlying causes of red, puffy eyes after crying, Dr. Reed explained: The redness and puffiness associated with crying stem from a combination of factors. Firstly,tears contain salt,which can draw fluid into the tissues surrounding the eyes,contributing considerably to the swelling. Secondly, the act of crying itself can irritate the delicate skin, leading to inflammation and redness. Stress hormones released during emotional distress can also exacerbate fluid retention, furthering the puffiness. The thin skin around the eyes is especially vulnerable, making it prone to showing these signs of irritation more prominently.

Dr. Reed emphasized that it’s not just the tears themselves, but the biological response to the emotional event that causes these changes. While the salt content in tears plays a role, it’s the interplay of fluid retention, inflammation, and stress hormone release that creates the visible symptoms of red and puffy eyes after crying.Understanding this complex interplay is crucial for developing effective relief strategies.

Regarding effective and readily available methods for soothing these symptoms, Dr. Reed recommended:

• Cold Compresses: Applying a cold compress constricts blood vessels, reducing inflammation and swelling. This is a time-tested remedy for its immediate cooling and soothing effect.
• Cryotherapy: Using a cryo tool provides a targeted cooling effect, possibly offering more intense relief for severe puffiness.
• Lymphatic Drainage Massage: Gentle massage around the eyes can definitely help stimulate lymphatic drainage, reducing fluid buildup and alleviating puffiness. This technique helps the body naturally reabsorb excess fluid.
• Caffeine-Based eye Creams: Caffeine is known for its vasoconstricting properties, helping to reduce redness and minimize the appearance of dark circles frequently enough associated with puffy eyes.
• Hydrating Eye Drops: Artificial tears can relieve dryness and irritation, frequently enough associated with crying. They provide lubrication and soothe the discomfort.
• Elevate Your Head: Sleeping with your head elevated can reduce fluid accumulation around the eyes overnight, minimizing morning puffiness.
• Avoid Rubbing Your Eyes: This seemingly simple act can exacerbate irritation and inflammation, worsening the redness and puffiness. Resist the urge!
• Cool Water rinse: A speedy rinse with cool water can help calm the irritated skin and offer immediate relief.

Dr. Evelyn Reed, Ophthalmologist and skincare Expert

When asked about long-term preventative measures, Dr. Reed advised: Maintaining good overall health, including hydration and a balanced diet, is crucial.Including foods rich in antioxidants,such as berries and leafy greens,can also help support healthy skin and reduce inflammation. managing stress effectively also plays a important role, as chronic stress can worsen the body’s inflammatory response. Regular facial massages can be beneficial for long-term improvement.

Dr. Reed concluded, Remember, while crying is a healthy emotional outlet, understanding the underlying causes and implementing these simple yet effective techniques can definitely help minimize the unpleasant aftermath.