Swollen face in the morning: this helps

Sometimes we wake up in the morning with a totally puffy face. Often we don't even know why we suddenly look so scrunched up. We explain the possible causes and give you first aid tips for a puffy face

Frau betrachtet sich im Spiegel© Adobestock
Sometimes we wake up in the morning with a totally puffy face. We show you what can help.

5 reasons for a puffy face in the morning

Eaten too much salt: Was your food perhaps heavily salted the night before? This can be a reason for a puffy face, as salt binds water in the body, causing it to accumulate between the cells.

Drinking too much: Water retention can actually occur if you drink too much water in the evening. Drinking a lot is healthy, but it should be spread throughout the day. If you drink large amounts in the evening, you run the risk of the fluid being less easily removed due to your sleeping position and accumulating in different parts of the body, such as the face. This particularly affects stomach sleepers, as it is more difficult for the fluid to flow back than for back or side sleepers.

>> Sleep problems: causes and what you can do about them

Hormone fluctuations: The time before and after your period in particular leads to water retention in many women, including in the face. Therefore, try to drink plenty of fluids throughout the day and reduce salt in your diet. Asparagus, pineapple, nettle and mate tea have a diuretic effect and stimulate kidney activity.

Allergies: Whether hay fever, a house dust or animal hair allergy: there are many reasons for a swollen face due to allergies. Cooling cloths or a cool pack, for example, can initially provide relief. A visit to the doctor will help to clarify which allergy you are suffering from. Nasal sprays, eye drops and anti-allergy medication can alleviate the symptoms.

Lack of exercise: This can actually also be a reason for a swollen face in the morning. Water retention can be caused by a lack of exercise, as this causes fluid to build up in the body and is less easily removed.
Tip: Go for a walk around the block or do a short workout. Among other things, sweating is a good way to get rid of water retention.

4 instant help tips for a puffy face in the morning

Cold: Place two teaspoons in the freezer for 10 minutes and then place the spoons under your eyes. Alternatively, wash your face with ice-cold water.

Caffeine: Apply a face mask with caffeine. This promotes blood circulation and has a skin-tightening effect.

Massages: A short massage promotes blood circulation. This relieves lymph congestion and fluid retention disappears in no time.

Jade roller: Get yourself a jade roller and keep it in the fridge at all times. A massage with it stimulates blood circulation and has a wonderful cooling effect. There is a well-rated jade roller here.

Date: 04.07.2020
Author: Ilka-Marie Hagenbücher