Some beauty rituals are timeless—reducing puffiness around the eyes with cucumber is certainly one of them. Like most of you, I can definitely remember my mother relaxing before a big night out with cool cucumber slices over her eyes.

There’s a good reason that this practice has stood the test of time: Cucumbers can work to help reduce inflammation and swelling. Cucumbers are excellent for repair and anti-aging—they are a source of antioxidants, including Vitamin C, as well as specific compounds that combat against aging forces (free radicals) and inflammation. Cucumbers also contain Vitamin A (retinol for very mild exfoliation) and vitamin B-5 to help the skin retain natural moisture.