The secret to looking youthful and radiant, according to Son Ye Jin, is as simple as applying cold cucumber slices to the eye area daily. “Back then, there weren’t as many cosmetics as there are now. My mother used to cut cucumber slices, chill them in the fridge, and apply them to her eyes every night. I learned this habit from her and have continued it to this day”, Son Ye Jin shared in an interview.
It’s hard to believe that something as inexpensive and humble as a cucumber can effectively tackle dark circles and puffy eyes – issues that plague many women who seek expensive cosmetics.

Cucumbers are Son Ye Jin’s go-to solution for tackling puffy eyes.
Why are cucumbers considered a “green beauty treatment” for the skin?
Not just a refreshing food, cucumbers are packed with water (about 95%), vitamins C and K, and minerals that effectively soothe, hydrate, and restore the skin. They also contain natural antioxidants that reduce skin stress, especially around the eyes, which are prone to wrinkles and dark circles.
When chilled, cucumbers can constrict blood vessels under the skin, reducing swelling and soothing dark circles. As a result, the eyes appear brighter and more energized after just a few applications.
Apart from being a delicious ingredient in many dishes, cucumbers boast impressive beauty benefits for skincare.
The Amazing Beauty Benefits of Cucumbers
– Reduces puffy eyes and brightens dark circles: Rich in vitamin K and naturally cooling, cucumbers promote blood circulation around the eyes, effectively reducing swelling and brightening the skin.
– Hydrates and soothes the skin: Cucumbers are a ‘skin savior’ for dry, dehydrated, or sensitive skin. Applying chilled cucumber slices provides instant relaxation and softness.
– Anti-aging and antioxidant properties: Flavonoids and tannins in cucumbers neutralize free radicals, which are the primary cause of premature aging, dullness, and loss of skin elasticity.
– Minimizes pores and controls oil production: Especially beneficial for oily skin, cucumbers help cool and balance sebum production, resulting in a more matte complexion.
4 Easy Cucumber Beauty Treatments to Try at Home
1. Cucumber Slice Eye Treatment: Soothes the delicate eye area, reducing puffiness and swelling.
Cut thin cucumber slices and chill them in the refrigerator for 15–20 minutes.
Apply to the eye area for 10–15 minutes.
2. Cucumber and Yogurt Face Mask: Brightens and evens out skin tone, leaving it soft and supple.
Blend half a cucumber and mix it with a teaspoon of plain yogurt.
Apply the mixture to your face and leave it on for 10–15 minutes before rinsing with cool water.
3. Cucumber and Honey Remedy: Soothes acne-prone skin, moisturizes, and aids in the recovery of sensitive skin.
Combine two teaspoons of cucumber juice with a teaspoon of raw honey.
Apply it to your face for 15 minutes, then rinse.
4. DIY Cucumber Facial Mist: Instantly hydrates and refreshes the skin on hot summer days.
Extract cucumber juice from a fresh cucumber, strain it, and pour it into a small spray bottle.
Store it in the refrigerator and use it within 2–3 days.
From direct application to masks, mists, and detox water, cucumbers are a versatile and accessible skincare “weapon” that anyone can incorporate into their beauty routine.
Precautions When Using Cucumbers for Skincare
– Choose fresh, clean cucumbers, and peel them if you’re unsure about their source.
– Perform a patch test on a small area of your skin if you have sensitive skin.
– Avoid leaving cucumber slices on your skin for more than 20 minutes or overnight to prevent moisture loss.
– Ideal frequency: 2–3 times a week to achieve effective results without irritating the skin.