Common Under Eye Skin Concerns
The skin under your eyes is especially vulnerable to visible changes. It’s more delicate than skin on other parts of your body–measuring around 0.5 mm on the eyelids, compared to 4.0 mm on the heels–and contains fewer oil glands and less collagen.
Add in the effects of genetics, ultraviolet (UV) exposure, stress, and lifestyle choices such as smoking and alcohol use, and it’s no surprise the skin under the eyes often shows signs of ageing before the rest of the face.
Among the common concerns you might have about the skin under your eyes are:
- Dryness: With fewer oil glands, the skin under your eyes is more prone to dryness and flaking.
- Thinning skin: As collagen and elastin levels naturally decline with age the skin under your eyes may become thinner and more fragile.
- Puffiness: Weakened muscles and connective tissues around the eyes can allow fat to shift downward, creating a puffy or swollen look.
- Dark circles: As you age, the skin under your eyes becomes looser and thinner. Hollowed out areas create shadows on your face.
- Fine lines and wrinkles: A natural part of the aging process, wrinkles may become more pronounced or appear earlier due to sun exposure, smoking, and genetic factors.
Under Eye Care Tips
The skin under your eyes requires special attention, and small changes to your routine can make a noticeable difference. Here are some practical tips to address common concerns and keep this area looking its best.
How to Reduce Dark Circles
Dark circles have many causes, and while they’re rarely a sign of a health problem, they can contribute to a tired or aged appearance. Common causes of dark circles under the eyes include:
- Genetics
- Ageing
- Lack of sleep
- Allergies
- Dehydration
- Rubbing your eyes (which can cause swelling and broken blood vessels)
- Hyperpigmentation (often from UV exposure triggering melanin production)
- Hollowing beneath the eyes
Targeted under eye care helps reduce the appearance of dark circles and support overall skin health. Using a hydrating eye serum, cream, or mask can improve skin texture and support the delicate skin around the eyes.
Look for formulas that include antioxidants–ingredients such as vitamin C, vitamin E, and green tea extract are commonly used in eye creams. Other ingredients can also play a key role. One clinical study found that eye pads containing caffeine and vitamin K reduced the appearance of wrinkles and dark circles.
For best results, use your ring finger to gently tap the product around the area–this finger applies the least pressure helping avoid any stretching or damaging of the skin.
To address specific concerns:
- Pigmentation-related dark circles: Look for eye creams containing vitamin C, which can help brighten the skin and reduce melanin production.
- Hollowing or volume loss: Hyaluronic acid-based eye creams plump the skin, softening shadows and improving the overall appearance.
If you wear makeup, apply and remove it with care. Use a gentle cleanser, avoid harsh rubbing, and consider a dedicated eye makeup remover.
Finally, lifestyle factors matter. Staying hydrated, getting enough sleep, and supporting your overall health with a balanced diet will all help to minimize the appearance of dark circles over time.
Getting Rid of Under-Eye Puffiness
Under-eye puffiness is often caused by fluid retention, lack of sleep, or weakened skin structure, and the right skincare can make a difference. Eye creams with caffeine are a popular option, as caffeine constricts blood vessels and reduces swelling. Other soothing ingredients such as green tea extract, coffee berry polyphenols, and willow herb also have anti-inflammatory properties that may help reduce puffiness and calm the skin.
Staying hydrated and getting enough sleep often helps minimize fluid retention. For an extra boost, try storing your eye cream or serum in the fridge. The cool temperature constricts blood vessels and temporarily reduce swelling, making your eyes look more refreshed.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Small missteps in your skincare routine can undermine your results. Here are two common mistakes to watch for, and what to do instead.
Not Using SPF
Sun protection is essential for the delicate area around your eyes. UV exposure can lead to hyperpigmentation, uneven skin tone, and reduced elasticity, all of which can accelerate visible aging. Applying a broad-spectrum sunscreen daily helps defend against these effects. Be sure to cover the area under and around your eyes, where the skin is most vulnerable.
If your eyes are sensitive to traditional sunscreens, opt for a mineral-based formula designed for delicate skin. Apply your sunscreen as the final step in your morning skincare routine. Use your ring finger to gently tap the sunscreen around the eye area, then massage it lightly into the skin. Allow it to absorb before you apply makeup.
For added protection, wear sunglasses with UV-blocking lenses. They shield the skin from sun exposure and help prevent squinting, which contribute to fine lines over time.
Harsh Ingredients
Just as important as choosing the right ingredients is avoiding those that may be harmful or irritating, especially when it comes to under eye skincare. Some substances commonly found in skincare products may trigger sensitivity or raise health concerns over time. Ingredients to watch out for include:
- Formaldehyde: A known skin irritant that can lead to contact dermatitis, especially with repeated exposure.
- Phthalates: Chemicals used to improve texture and longevity in products but have been linked to potential risks, including effects on reproductive health.
- Ammonium Chloride: This compound can irritate the skin, particularly in sensitive areas.
Building a Skincare Routine That Works for You
When it comes to the delicate skin under your eyes, consistency and thoughtful ingredient choices make a measurable difference. Products such as eye creams, masks, and face oils offer an extra layer of support, especially when chosen with your unique skin needs in mind.
Shop Skincare
At Prose, we offer custom skincare products including cleansers, serums, and moisturizers, designed to help you achieve your healthiest skin. Our comprehensive skin consultation factors in your unique circumstances to personalize your products and routine, so you only get the ingredients you need for your skin. Even better, all Prose skincare products are vegan, cruelty-free, and free of BHT, sulfates, drying alcohols, silicones, and colorants.
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