Menopause and Puffy Eyes: What’s the Link?

The skin around the eyes is the thinnest on the body—and often the first place to show changes. During menopause, the decline in oestrogen triggers a cascade of effects that can lead to fluid retention , weakened circulation , and loss of skin firmness , all of which contribute to puffiness.

Oestrogen plays a key role in:

• Regulating fluid balance

• Supporting collagen and skin elasticity

• Maintaining capillary strength

As oestrogen drops:

• Capillaries become more fragile, leading to leakage and fluid buildup

• Lymphatic drainage slows, especially around the eye area

• Skin becomes thinner and less elastic , allowing puffiness to become more visible

Sleep disturbances and night sweats are hallmark menopause symptoms. Poor sleep leads to:

• Fluid accumulation around the eyes

• Increased cortisol levels , which promote inflammation and puffiness

Hormonal changes can make some women more sensitive to sodium , which encourages fluid retention—especially in areas with delicate tissue like the under-eyes.

As collagen depletes and facial fat shifts, the structure around the eyes changes. This can cause:

• Hollowing under the eyes

• Bulging of fat pads , making puffiness more noticeable

• High stress levels: Elevated cortisol can trigger inflammation and disrupt fluid balance

• Allergies and sensitivities: May become more reactive in midlife, contributing to puffiness

• Poor lymphatic drainage: Ageing and reduced movement (especially at night) can slow fluid flow

Look for lightweight formulas with:

• Caffeine – constricts blood vessels and reduces swelling

• Peptides – support collagen and elasticity

• Hesperidin methyl chalcone – improves capillary health

• Niacinamide – reduces inflammation and supports barrier repair

Tip: Store your eye cream in the fridge for extra de-puffing power.

Use gentle tapping or tools like:

• Cold spoons or jade rollers

• Gua sha (light pressure under the eyes moving out toward the ears)
  This helps stimulate fluid movement and reduce morning puffiness.

• Aim for 7–8 hours of quality sleep each night

• Use an extra pillow to slightly elevate your head and promote overnight drainage

Both sodium and alcohol contribute to fluid retention and dehydration, worsening under-eye puffiness. Balance with potassium-rich foods like leafy greens and bananas.

Dehydration makes the body hold onto fluid —counterintuitively causing puffiness. Sip water consistently through the day and limit caffeine to 1–2 cups.

Cortisol not only contributes to ageing but disrupts fluid balance and triggers inflammation. To help regulate it:

• Incorporate gentle exercise , breathwork , or yoga

• Avoid over-caffeinating or over-exercising when already fatigued

For persistent puffiness that doesn't respond to lifestyle and skincare changes:

• RF microneedling or LED therapy can help tighten and support the delicate skin around the eyes

• Lymphatic massage facials offer deeper drainage

• Injectables may be considered if volume loss or fat pad bulging is a factor—best assessed by a qualified professional

Puffy eyes during menopause aren’t just from a bad night’s sleep—they’re often the result of complex hormonal changes, fluid retention, and loss of tissue support. The good news is, with the right combination of skincare, lifestyle adjustments , and targeted treatments , this symptom can be managed effectively.

Want help choosing the right product or treatment for menopausal puffiness?

Book a Skin Discovery Session and let’s create a plan tailored to your skin’s evolving needs.