Facial Bloating? Here’s How to De-Puff Your Face
Skip the “maga” look with our expert tips.
If you’ve ever woken up with a puffy face or simply find yourself battling with persistent swelling in the facial area, two things: First, you’re not alone. Second, there are plenty of ways you can banish the bloat (a.k.a. the “maga” look) as well as prevent it from happening in the first place.
What causes puffiness in the face?
Facial puffiness can result from several factors. The most common culprits include fluid retention from consuming too much salt, alcohol, or processed foods, which can cause your body to hold onto water. Allergies can also trigger reactions that lead to swelling around the eyes and face. Lack of sleep often leads to fluid accumulation around your face and eyes, while hormonal changes during menstruation or pregnancy can cause your body to retain water. (The latter is why puffiness tends to be more common in women than in men.) Additionally, sometimes, facial puffiness is simply a genetic trait.
Can puffiness be prevented?
Yes it can be prevented—through a combination of lifestyle changes and proactive habits. Here are some key tips:
- Drink plenty of water: Staying hydrated helps flush out excess salt and toxins that can cause puffiness. Aim for at least 8 glasses a day.
- Sleep on your back. Sleeping on your stomach can cause fluid to accumulate in your face overnight. Try sleeping on your back with your head slightly elevated to prevent this. (Make sure to get adequate sleep, too!)
- Monitor your diet. Reduce your intake of salty and processed foods, and incorporate more fresh fruits and vegetables. Potassium-rich foods like bananas and avocados can help balance sodium levels and reduce water retention.
- Treat allergies. Having allergies can cause and aggravate puffiness so consult your doctor for proper allergy treatment. Taking antihistamines, for example, can control and reduce puffiness.
Ways to De-Puff Your Face
If you’re already dealing with puffiness, don’t worry! Here are some effective ways to de-puff your face and get that sculpted beauty back:
1. Do facial massages.
A gentle facial massage can help stimulate lymphatic drainage, reducing fluid retention and improving circulation. Dr. Maximin Navarro, resident dermatologist at Bella Pelle Skin Solutions and a Philippine Dermatological Society (PDS) fellow, suggests doing these movements:
“Use your ring finger to do gentle upward motions from the jaw line to the ear area. You can also focus on areas prone to puffiness like under the eyes, doing upward strokes towards the direction of the sides of the eyebrow, then going to the forehead. For the neck area, massage from the clavicle (or collarbone) to the submandibular area, or the space underneath your jaw, right below your chin.”
You may also use a facial roller and massage your face while applying your serum, preferably one with firming actives.
Try: Mesoestetic Age Element Firming Concentrate, P6,500
A concentrated serum to improve skin’s elasticity, it has an immediate lifting effect that helps redefine the facial contour, reducing the signs of puffiness.
Getting regular professional facials can also be beneficial. Bella Pelle’s AquaFacial includes a facial massage, and uses microcurrent therapy as well as cooling/heating energy to firm up and tighten skin.
2. Try gua sha.
Gua sha is an ancient Chinese technique using a smooth stone tool to massage the face. It helps release tension, promote lymphatic drainage, and improve blood flow. Use the tool to gently scrape the skin in upward and outward motions, starting from the neck and working your way up.
Make sure not to use it on dry skin, though. It’s best to do your gua sha routine after your skincare regimen—specifically after your moisturizer, so skin is smooth and slippery. Try the Ivatherm Aquafil Hydra Light Hydrating Cream, P2,550, a super light formula with skin-soothing effects. (Also read: FYI: Hydrating and Moisturizing Aren’t The Same)
3. Splash cold water on your face.
Cold water can constrict blood vessels and reduce swelling. Splash your face with cold water several times, or use a cold compress or chilled face roller for a more targeted approach.
Also helpful: Washing with a cooling cleanser like Frezyderm Mild Wash Liquid, P950, which is gentle enough for delicate, puffiness-prone skin.
4. Move your body.
Physical activity improves circulation and helps reduce fluid retention. Even a short walk or some light stretching can make a difference. Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate exercise daily to keep puffiness at bay.
5. Use a de-puffing eye cream.
Eye creams formulated with ingredients like caffeine, hyaluronic acid, and peptides can help reduce puffiness and brighten the under-eye area. Gently pat the cream around your eyes, being careful not to tug at the delicate skin.
Try: Neostrata Intensive Eye Therapy, P4,450
This peptide-rich eye cream lifts and firms the area around the eyes, deflates visible puffiness, and diminishes dark circles.
6. Put on a hydrating mask.
Hydrating masks with ingredients like aloe vera, cucumber, and chamomile can soothe the skin and reduce puffiness. Apply the mask for 10 to 15 minutes, then rinse off with cool water for an instant refresh.
When to see a doctor
If you’re experiencing sudden or painful facial swelling—or persistent puffiness that doesn’t go away—seek medical attention as your symptoms may be indicative of a serious illness.
For customized skincare recommendations, you can book a face-to-face or virtual dermatological consultation with Dr. Maximin Navarro, our resident dermatologist and a Philippine Dermatological Society (PDS) fellow, here. You may also contact the Bella Pelle Skin Solutions Clinic at (+63) 999-887-1933. You may also view the full list of our facial services and treatments here.
Bella Pelle Skin Solutions is located 2/F L Building, #142 Katipunan, Brgy. Saint Ignatius, Quezon City. The center is open Monday to Friday, from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.
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