When we look at ourselves in the mirror, we would like to see our eyes as the mirror to our soul - Bright, wide and vivid. These expectations are often struck by the harsh reality when we realize that our eyes seem just like how we feel at a long work day - droopy and weighed down.

Surprisingly, both the young and old are no longer spared from this irritating condition also known as ""eye-bags"", ""puffy eyes"" or ""dark circles"". So, if you are in this same predicament and looking for ways to improving the way you look, there are still a few remedies that could interest you.

Everyone wishes to look healthy, young and walk with a spring in their step. So, what is stopping us?

Good, solid sleep is something that every doctor would prescribe without a doubt. Never ever cut corners where sleep is on the line. Most of the times, it is one of the easiest of things to set right. Go to bed regularly at a predetermined time. Have a glass of warm milk, read in bed and relax in order to fall asleep peacefully.

Blocked nostrils and sinusitis is also a culprit for your eye bags. This inflammation stops the blood from flowing freely in your veins which manifests in puffiness and dark circles. So go ahead and get rid of the sinus problems and see your eye bags take care of themselves.

When toxins are not able to be flushed out of your system it results in water accumulation. This in turn generates puffiness due to the water held there. Do not let exhaustion get to you. Take periodic breaks and breath deeper. Even pregnancy and hormonal imbalances can make this happen.

Try to use pillows that are able to raise your head higher than your torso. This way you will get no water rushing to your face. In fact the water if not flushed out of your body will be held throughout the body and not in one specific area.

Carbohydrates are known to suck up and store water. Hence, eating less of them will certainly help. In their place substitute lots of fruits, vegetables and whole grains. This will enable you to get a blemish less skin with no dark pigmentation anywhere. Also, reduce the amount of salt that you ingest daily. The more salty your food is, the more will your taste buds crave for it and more will be the water retention in the long run. If you are used to eating out frequently read the labels carefully and check for the main ingredients. You will be surprised at the amount of preservatives that you are consuming every day.

Cold sensations are very healthy for the eye area. Try use cold compresses regularly. These can be made of a variety of things. They could be plain cloth or cucumber slices or even plain old tea bags.

However, please note that if the puffiness persists over a long period then there could be some health concerns that you need to have investigated.

Lavender oil is known for its stress reducing qualities. It is also a good way to get your peepers to brighten up. Apply some lavender oil to a cotton swab dipped in water and keep it as a compress on your eyes.