Why is taking care of the skin around the eyes so important? The skin around the eyes is thin, delicate, and sensitive, making it particularly susceptible to early signs of aging. Lacking subcutaneous fat cells, this area requires special attention to maintain its youthful appearance. Surprisingly, some women in their forties boast well-nourished, radiant, and bright peri-orbital skin, while others may already experience fine wrinkles as early as their 30s.
How our skin looks is determined 50% by genetics, while the other 50% depends on lifestyle and care.
All about eye skin care
The eyes never lie and are the first to reveal age. Daily eye care plays a vital role in how youthful the skin around the eyes appears. Beauty is truly in our hands: the right care can not only slow down the signs of aging but also significantly improve the condition of the skin.
Why does the skin around the eyes require regular care?
- Dryness. Compared to the skin on the face and body, the skin around the eyes has fewer sebaceous glands, which means it produces insufficient lipids to retain moisture.
- Expression lines and "crow's feet". The skin in the eye area is thinner than that on the face or body. Without comprehensive care (at least moisturization and nourishment), signs of aging can appear in this area even at a young age.
- Puffiness. Swelling is often noticed after sleep due to lymphatic drainage issues. Unhealthy lifestyle habits can be a contributing factor.
- Dark circles. The skin under the eyes is so thin that capillaries can be visible through it. This natural effect results in dark circles, making the eyes appear tired and the face look unhealthy.
- Ptosis. As we age, the skin loses essential proteins responsible for its elasticity and youthful appearance. As a result, under the influence of gravity, the skin tissues sag. Under-eye bags and drooping upper eyelids are outcomes of these processes.
Products
To keep the skin around the eyes radiant for a long time, comprehensive daily care is essential, including products designed specifically for this area. A common mistake is using basic face creams, even if they are high-quality professional creams, they are not suitable for eye care.
Special products for eye area care:
- Have a lightweight texture.
- Are hypoallergenic with carefully selected ingredients.
- Undergo multi-stage testing, including ophthalmological control.
Products should be chosen based on age and specific concerns (eyelid puffiness, dark circles, etc.), so they can meet the needs of the skin and address the intended issues.
- For maintaining youthful skin (up to 30 years old), using light products with moisturizing effects is usually sufficient.
- After 30 years old, collagen and elastin synthesis slows down, leading to reduced skin elasticity and firmness, and the skin becomes prone to dehydration. In this case, products with rich textures and corrective properties should be chosen. Intensive moisturization is necessary, along with protection against external environmental factors (vitamins, antioxidants).
- After 40 years old, in addition to the reduced production of collagen and elastin, skin turgor and regenerative capabilities decrease due to the slowed synthesis of estrogen in the body. The skincare routine should include products with anti-aging components such as collagen, retinol, resveratrol, peptides, vitamin C, and others. These help to smooth fine wrinkles, prevent new creases on the skin, and restore its elasticity.
- After 50 years old, the skin becomes thinner, loses its tone, and starts to sag. Daily care products should include rich nourishing formulas with lifting effects
Cleansing and makeup removal
Gentle and careful cleansing is the key rule for skincare in general, and particularly for the skin around the eyes.
- You should cleanse the skin both in the morning and evening.
- Avoid using foaming cleansers and gels with surfactants that may irritate and dry out the epidermis.
- It's better to use a specialized product, such as REPLENISH Gentle Cleansing Balm or micellar water. Apply it to a cotton pad, press it gently against your eyelids, and remove the makeup with soft movements.
- After that, rinsing your face with clean water is enough, and there's no need to wipe the skin dry. Let it remain moist.
During makeup removal and washing, avoid rubbing your eyes or applying excessive pressure on the eyelids, as these actions can stretch and damage the delicate skin.
Toning
Using a toner helps neutralize the effects of makeup removal products, normalize the pH, and prepare the skin for applying cream. It's not necessary to buy a toner specifically for the eyes; the packaging should indicate it's suitable for both facial and eye care. Apply a small amount of toner to a cotton pad and gently wipe the eyelids along the massage lines.
Moisturizing
The tendency for dryness and dehydration is due to the anatomical features of the skin in this area. Therefore, quality moisturization is essential in daily skincare. Lightweight moisturizing creams, fluids, and gels form the basis of an effective routine. To achieve radiant skin, choose products containing hyaluronic acid, squalane, green tea extract, thermal water, and others. You can also use patches as an SOS remedy to quickly restore skin elasticity and hydration.
When applying the cream, distribute a small amount along the upper orbital bone from the inner to the outer corner of the eye, and along the lower orbital bone from the outer to the inner corner. Then gently pat the cream into the skin with the pads of your fingers. Any excess cream can be dabbed with a tissue.
Avoid applying cream to the eyelids and lashes, as it may cause allergic reactions, conjunctivitis, or swelling.
Nourishment
If the skin is dehydrated or damaged due to sun exposure or improper care, you can use corrective products with plant oils (shea, wheat germ, grape seed, avocado) and vitamin E. These ingredients help restore the skin's lipid barrier, nourish, and soften it. For example, serums can be used before applying the cream, and they should be used in courses.
At Scentual Aroma, we offer the Youthful Eye Serum , designed to provide intensive nourishment to the delicate skin around the eyes.
Sun protection
Ultraviolet rays cause photoaging of the skin, and the skin around the eyes is the first to develop fine lines. It's important to wear sunglasses to avoid squinting in the sun and creating additional creases with facial expressions. Additionally, there are sunglasses with UV filters to provide extra protection. Your skincare products should also contain SPF filters to block ultraviolet rays. Most everyday cosmetic products nowadays have these filters included, so you don't need to buy additional products unless you are going on vacation to the seaside.
Summary
- Use clean and non-toxic makeup and pay attention to its expiration dates.
- Always remove makeup, even when you're tired. Sleeping with makeup on can negate the effects of months of skincare.
- Apply products correctly and avoid stretching or injuring the skin.
- Only use peeling products on the facial skin, avoiding the eye area.
- Protect your skin from UV rays, the number one enemy of youthfulness.
- Drink plenty of water. Moisturizing the skin externally without maintaining proper hydration from within is pointless.
In conclusion, consistent and targeted care, along with healthy lifestyle habits, can greatly enhance the condition of the skin around the eyes. By following these guidelines and being diligent in your eye skincare routine, you can achieve a bright, refreshed, and youthful look that highlights the beauty of your eyes and complements your overall appearance.
