Why should I use an eye cream?
My philosophy on skincare is simple, prevention is always best, and in the case of eye care this rings especially true. The eye area is notoriously delicate and is usually the first area to show signs of ageing. It’s the only area of the face that doesn’t contain sebaceous glands, which elsewhere provide sebum (or oil) to keep the skin naturally hydrated. There’s limited blood flow to this area, so it’s prone to clogging. As we age we also start to lose volume to our skin and an already thin area becomes more so, making it especially adept at quickly revealing the signs of ageing, dehydration, blood vessels, and dark circles.
To compensate for the lack of oil, incorporate a nourishing eye cream or hydrating serum to prevent fine lines, dehydration and creases. Eye care treatments can be incorporated into any existing regime from as young as 20 years old and with regular use this key preventative measure will keep the delicate skin supple and hydrated.
Your moisturiser is not enough
There’s a common misconception about the efficacy of an eye cream, with opponents arguing that this divisive product is all but redundant and a stock-standard moisturiser will do the job just as well. I, for one, am a firm believer in the use of an eye cream or serum and see such value in its many benefits. Many facial moisturisers contain active ingredients like chemical exfoliators, which are much too harsh for this sensitive spot.
The viscosity and texture of your moisturiser is also likely either too light or too heavy, which can cause skin conditions such as milia – tiny white bumps comprised of hardened keratin, often triggered by the use of heavy creams. So it’s well worth investing in a cream or serum formulated specifically to tend to the needs of this area and any other concerns you’d like to address.
Choosing the right eye treatment
When choosing your eye cream look intelligent formulations with the following key ingredients:
✔️ Hyaluronic acid for plumping and hydration and ceramides to lock in moisture.
✔️ Retinol or its plant-based equivalent, bakuchiol to stimulate cell turnover and collagen production.
✔️ Vitamin C for maintaining elasticity, brightening and preventing free radical damage.
✔️ Peptides to stimulate collagen and reinforce the skin.
✔️ Vitamin E is great for moisture as well as soothing dry irritated skin and protecting against harmful free radicals.
✔️ Blueberry extract and CoQ10 for fighting free radicals.
✔️ Arnica and caffeine for depuffing.
✔️ Vitamin K, liquorice root and willowbark for brightening.
✔️ For a natural optio look for rosehip oil and aloe vera for nourishment and hydration.
✔️ Try to avoid synthetic fragrance and fragrant plant oils as these types of ingredients can irritate the delicate eye area – not to mention your eyes.
