Waking up with puffy eyes can be frustrating and uncomfortable—especially if it happens often. But what's behind this common morning woe?

In this article, we’ll explore 7 possible causes of morning eye puffiness and share expert tips on how to reduce and prevent it, so you can wake up feeling (and looking) refreshed.

Too Much Salt in Your Diet

One of the most common reasons for puffy eyes in the morning is a high salt intake. Excess sodium causes your body to retain water, leading to bloating—including in the delicate under-eye area.

Overnight, this effect can be worse because you’re not drinking water as you sleep, which increases dehydration and fluid retention.

Expert Tip:
Cut back on salty snacks, processed foods, and condiments. Use herbs and spices like Herbamare Sodium-Free as a healthy alternative to salt.

Bonus: Watch out for hidden sodium in sauces, dressings, and canned foods—even if you don’t use a salt shaker.

Allergies and Environmental Irritants

Allergic reactions can cause your body to release histamines, which lead to inflammation, redness, and puffiness—especially around the eyes.

If you’re waking up with puffy, itchy eyes, consider allergens in your bedroom like:

• New bed sheets or pillowcases
• Laundry detergents or fabric softeners
• Indoor plants or open windows letting in pollen

Expert Tip:
Use A.Vogel Eye Drops with Euphrasia to relieve eye irritation and consider trying Allergy Relief , a natural remedy for hay fever and allergies.

Not Getting Enough Sleep

Sleep deprivation doesn’t just leave you groggy—it can also lead to fluid and blood retention around the eyes, causing puffiness and dark circles.

Poor sleep quality can make your eyes appear more swollen, especially in the morning.

Expert Tip:
Create a bedtime routine that includes avoiding screens an hour before bed. Try taking a warm bath or using a natural sleep aid to promote deep, restful sleep.

Eye Conditions Like Conjunctivitis

Conditions like conjunctivitis (pink eye) can cause your eyes to become swollen, red, and irritated. This can be due to bacteria, viruses, allergies, or even contact lenses.

Symptoms include:

• Sticky discharge
• Redness or itchiness
• Crusty eyelashes in the morning

Expert Tip:
A.Vogel Eye Drops can be used to soothe irritation and discomfort, and are safe for use while you're suffering from conjunctivitis. They contain Euphrasia, which has been shown to aid in recovering from conjunctivitis.1 Euphrasia may be particularly useful in cases where conjunctivitis is caused by a viral infection, where regular antibiotics don't work.

Sleeping with Contact Lenses In

Sleeping in contacts can block oxygen flow and trap bacteria between your lens and eye surface, leading to irritation, dryness, and morning puffiness.

Expert Tip:
Don't do it! Make sure to always remove your contact lenses before bed. If you feel like your lenses are irritating your eyes, you can try our A.Vogel Eye Drops, or you can take a break from contacts and wear glasses when your eyes feel extra sensitive.

Drinking Too Much Alcohol

A night of drinking can lead to dehydration and water retention, both of which contribute to puffy eyes. Alcohol also disrupts sleep, making puffiness more pronounced.

Expert Tip:
Stay hydrated by alternating alcoholic drinks with water and sleep with an extra pillow to help reduce overnight fluid buildup around your eyes.

Not Drinking Enough Water

Even if you're not drinking alcohol, dehydration is a major factor in under-eye swelling. Going all night without water can leave your body craving hydration—and your eyes puffy.

Expert Tip:
Drink water consistently throughout the day. If you're worried about waking up to use the bathroom at night, stop drinking water an hour before bed—but don’t skip hydration during the day.

Final Thoughts

Whether it's diet, allergies, or lifestyle habits, there are many reasons you might wake up with puffy eyes. But the good news is, with a few simple changes—from cutting salt and alcohol to improving sleep hygiene—you can reduce puffiness and keep your eyes looking fresh and healthy.

Try A.Vogel Eye Drops with Euphrasia to soothe tired, irritated eyes. Safe for use with contact lenses and during allergic flare-ups.