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| - Last Updated on July 25, 2024 by Dr Priyamvada
Quick Take
An Instagram post claims that potato juice and aloe vera gel can effectively reduce eye puffiness. We did a fact check to term it as Mostly False.
The Claim
According to an Instagram post, dipping a cotton ball in a mixture of potato juice and aloe vera gel and applying it to the under-eye area for 15 to 20 minutes is the most effective home remedy to reduce puffiness and dark circles around the eyes. The “before” and “after” images suggest a significant improvement in the appearance of puffiness and dark circles after using this remedy.
Fact Check
What causes puffiness around the eyes?
Puffiness around the eyes can be due to a lot of factors. These may include genetics, ageing, and how we live our lives—like our sleep patterns, diet, and stress levels. Other factors such as dehydration, allergies, and too much sun can make puffiness worse. To see lasting improvements, it’s important to tackle these underlying causes.
People often turn to home remedies for a quick fix. For instance, some believe that dipping your face in ice water can reduce wrinkles and puffiness. Some people also rely on Vicks Vaporub for reducing the signs of stress and puffiness from their face. However, these remedies can vary in how well they work, and there’s not always strong scientific evidence to back them up. For long-term results, making lifestyle changes and addressing specific issues like allergies or hydration are usually more effective.
Is potato juice really effective for reducing eye puffiness?
No, not really. There is insufficient direct scientific evidence on the effectiveness of potato juice for reducing eye puffiness. But, its bioactive compounds exhibit antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that suggest potential benefits. General benefits of potato juice, such as its gastrointestinal protective effects, imply soothing properties that might help reduce inflammation. Additionally, a 2022 study on the utilisation of yellow potato water extract in a hydrogel eye mask demonstrated significant anti-aging effects. The benefits include reduced wrinkles and improved skin moisture. Moreover, cold compression and cucumber slices are commonly used home remedies for reducing eye puffiness. Hypothetically, the cold application of potatoes could provide similar benefits due to their cooling and anti-inflammatory properties. Therefore, there is a need for further research, to substantiate its effectiveness as a potential remedy for reducing eye puffiness.
Can aloe vera gel be effective for under-eye puffiness?
We still need more definitive research to provide a conclusive answer to this. Aloe vera is very popular for its skin-healing and moisturising properties, containing vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that benefit the skin. It is often used to soothe irritated skin, reduce inflammation, and provide hydration. While some studies suggest aloe vera may improve skin elasticity and reduce swelling, its efficacy in specifically targeting puffiness is not well-documented and mostly anecdotal.
Aloe vera contains polysaccharides and glycoproteins that promote wound healing, reduce inflammation, and enhance skin permeation, as per a 2008 review. Another research from 2008 has shown its potential in reducing skin inflammation, such as significantly decreasing UV-induced erythema. Additionally, its moisturising properties can help keep the skin hydrated and potentially reduce puffiness. This makes it suitable for under-eye care. But still, there are no direct studies specifically addressing aloe vera gel for under-eye puffiness. With that being said, its general skin care benefits suggest it could be effective for this purpose for some people.
Can potato juice and aloe vera gel together reduce puffiness around the eyes?
No, not really. There is limited scientific evidence to support the claim that potato juice and aloe vera gel effectively reduce puffiness around the eyes. Potatoes contain vitamin C, antioxidants, and enzymes with anti-inflammatory effects, but their efficacy for puffiness is unproven. Aloe vera is known for its skin-healing and moisturising properties, containing vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that soothe irritated skin and reduce inflammation. However, its effectiveness for puffiness is mostly anecdotal. Combining potato juice and aloe vera gel may offer temporary soothing and hydrating effects, but these are likely short-term and not a guaranteed solution.
Dr Jyothy Kannangath, a Consultant Dermatologist at Dr Thaj Laser Skin & Hair Clinic, Coimbatore, shares her expert opinion, “The internet is full of videos and blogs claiming the effectiveness of potato juice in treating puffiness, acne, pigmentation, and scars. Potatoes are often used alone or combined with ingredients like lemon juice, yoghurt, milk, or oatmeal. Although the enzyme catecholase in potatoes is believed to offer skin-healing benefits, there is no scientific evidence supporting this claim. While animal studies have shown anti-inflammatory effects of potato skin extracts, we need more research to confirm these effects in humans.”
Dr Kannangath further explains, “Aloesin, a compound from aloe vera, can inhibit tyrosinase, the enzyme responsible for skin pigmentation. However, there are case reports of hypersensitivity reactions and contact dermatitis from aloe vera preparations.” She advises, “Before starting aloe vera-based home remedies, always conduct a skin sensitivity test.”
Are there better treatments for puffiness around the eyes?
Yes. For persistent puffiness, consulting a dermatologist is advisable. Medical treatments such as topical creams containing ingredients like retinol, caffeine, and hyaluronic acid can be more effective. Procedures like chemical peels, laser therapy, and fillers may also offer long-lasting results.
For a sustained improvement consider lifestyle changes. These can include getting adequate sleep, staying hydrated, a balanced diet, limiting your screen exposure and wearing sunscreen. These lifestyle modifications can help prevent and reduce the severity of puffiness.
Is it safe to use potato juice and aloe vera gel on the skin?
Generally, yes, but with caution. Individuals with sensitive skin or allergies may experience irritation from applying potato juice or aloe vera gel. There have been some case studies of severe allergies due to potatoes or its juice, so proceeding with caution is advised. It’s important to conduct a patch test before trying any new remedy, including aloe vera gel. Even aloe vera gel can cause allergic reactions in some people. If irritation or an allergic reaction occurs, discontinue use immediately and consult a healthcare professional.
To conclude, the claim that potato juice and aloe vera gel is effective for reducing dark circles and puffiness around the eyes is mostly false. These ingredients may offer temporary soothing and hydrating effects. But, there is no direct scientific evidence to support their long-term efficacy for this purpose. For those struggling with puffiness or dark circles around the eyes, addressing lifestyle factors and seeking professional advice from a dermatologist are more reliable approaches.
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