Q: Can I use a shimmer eyeshadow if my lids are puffy?

A: It is best to keep shimmer on the very centre of the lid or the inner corner. Avoid putting shimmer in the crease or on the brow bone if those areas are swollen.

Q: Does caffeine in skincare actually help?

A: Yes! Caffeine is a vasoconstrictor, meaning it shrinks blood vessels and can temporarily reduce the appearance of puffiness before you begin your makeup.

Q: Is it better to use a cream or powder blush when I have puffy eyes?

A: When dealing with puffy eyes, it is generally better to opt for a cream or liquid formula. Cream products blend seamlessly into the skin and provide a dewy, youthful glow that draws attention away from the eye area. Powder blushes can sometimes look "dusty" and emphasize skin texture if they migrate too close to the under-eye area. For an energised look, apply your blush slightly higher on the cheekbones—this creates a visual "lift" that counters the downward pull of puffiness.

Q: Should I use a lighter shade of concealer to hide eye bags?

A: This is a common misconception. Using a shade that is too light can actually turn the puffiness a "ghostly" grey tone, making it more prominent. For puffy eyes, choose a concealer like the Lakmē 9to5 Hya Matte Liquid Concealer that matches your skin tone perfectly to even out the surface. If you have dark shadows, use a peach or biscuit-toned colour corrector first, then apply your skin-matching concealer only in the "divot" or shadow beneath the puff.

Q: How can I stop my eye makeup from creasing on puffy lids?

A: Puffy eyelids often create more skin-on-skin contact, which leads to oils breaking down your eyeshadow. To prevent this, always start with a thin layer of Lakmē Unreal Blur Perfect Primer to create a smooth, matte base. Additionally, stick to cream-to-powder formulas or long-wear matte shadows, and avoid applying heavy moisturisers directly on the eyelids before you begin your eye makeup routine.

Makeup Tips for Puffy Eyes: Look Fresh and Energised

Sanya Anand

22 JAN ‘26

Keep reading to know...

01 What Causes Puffy Eyes and Why Makeup Can Help?
02 Key Makeup Techniques to Reduce Puffiness
03 Step-by-Step Guide: How to Apply Makeup for Puffy Eyes
04 Common Mistakes to Avoid
05 How to Maintain Fresh and Energised Eyes All Day
06 Post-Makeup Care: How to Prevent Puffy Eyes
07 Conclusion
08 FAQs

We have all been there: waking up after a late night, a stressful week, or a bout of seasonal allergies only to find heavy, swollen "bags" staring back in the mirror. While puffy eyes are a natural response to fluid retention or inflammation, they can make us look far more tired than we actually feel.

While lifestyle changes are the long-term answer, makeup is your most powerful immediate ally. By using the right light-reflecting products and strategic placement, you can visually "recast" the shadows caused by puffiness, making your eyes appear lifted, bright, and wide awake.