Fashion

Do Cucumbers On Eyes Really Work?

by Lindsey Rose Black

After a long week with little sleep, puffy eye circles are practically inevitable. What I really want to know is do cucumbers on eyes really work to reduce circles and redness? The answer is a loud and proud yes!

Turns out, there's hard science to prove chilled cucumber slices really do help your tired, puffy eyes. But honestly, even if the whole cucumber method had been proven false, I probably still would've used them anyway. There's just something so #LazyGirlGlam about thick cucumber slices on top of eyes while lounging in a robe and slippers.

Huffington Post spoke with dermatologist Dr. Gregory Nikolaidis for details on the science behind this skincare strategy. He explained, "If puffiness is accompanied by irritation, home remedies like cucumbers or chamomile tea can help reduce the inflammation and swelling. Cucumbers have powerful antioxidants and flavinoids that are thought to reduce irritation." That's right, cucumber slices for the win.

Cooling the cucumber matters, too! According to Dr. Nikolaidis, "Cold cucumbers or tea bags also work in part by the cooling effects of evaporation, and are best applied for four to five minutes." An excuse to straight up chill for a whole, undisturbed five minutes? Hand over the cucumbers and count me in.

And don't let the rest of that cucumber go to waste. Check out these surprising skincare uses for cucumber, make a DIY eye mask, or heck, blend the whole veggie into a DIY face mask. Follow instructions below for my favorite skin soothing cucumber face mask recipe.

Ingredients:

  • 1 Cucumber (minus two slices for eyes), peeled
  • 1 Tablespoon Yogurt
  • 1 Tablespoon Raw Honey

Instructions:

  1. In a food processor or blender, combine all three ingredients
  2. Spread on face and let sit for 15 minutes
  3. Rinse with cool water

The cucumber is hydrating, while the yogurt and honey provide sunburn relief and stimulate tissue growth. #Winning

Images: Fotolia (1, 2)