Skincare for the eyes: Why and how it should be included in your skincare routine

Eye cream is one of those things that can divide the masses. While some of us are firm fans, others are complete non-believers. And depending on who you ask it’s likely that a good quality eye cream is either a fixed feature in their skincare routine or the first thing they’d let fall by the wayside in exchange for a slick of moisturiser. And we get it, as skincare advances to include new ingredients, gadgets, masks and mists - it’s normal to start questioning, do I really need this? At Caci, we are firmly in team eye cream, let us tell you why.

The skin under our eyes is not in fact equal to the rest of our face, and this requires special attention and formulation. The delicate skin is actually up to 10 times thinner, which makes it more permeable (or likely to absorb product) and shows deep veins more clearly.

At Caci, we always aim to help our clients make informed decisions, so here is the rundown on whether eye creams are worth the hype, right for you, and how to use them.

Why is the skin under the eye different?

Scientifically speaking, the skin under our eyes has fewer sebaceous glands, collagen, and elastin fibres compared to the rest of our faces. This means that the skin is thinner, and can give a more see-through appearance which can differ in colour. While everyone is different, some of us will experience darker circles under the eyes when we are tired or stressed, while for others those dark circles will exist to some degree all the time.

Because the skin is designed in this way, it makes it more prone to losing moisture and as a result becoming dry. This is why quite often people will notice fine lines and wrinkles around their eyes and crowfeet area before anywhere else on their face. It’s not your imagination! This skin does become less springy and plump faster.

What ingredients should I incorporate in my eye cream?

The best types of eye creams to target this specific area are ones that will use a delivery system that is suited for thinner and more delicate skin. And targeted actives should also be incorporated to help treat specific concerns of the area.

Fine Lines and Wrinkles

For instance, if fine lines and wrinkles are your main woe, try incorporating an eye cream that includes retinol. Hyaluronic Acid will also help to hydrate, which in turn helps to reduce the signs of fine lines and wrinkles. It’s hard to go past the Murad Retinol Youth Renewal Eye Serum if you’re looking for something that ticks all the hydrating boxes.

This little bottle of magic will improve the look of wrinkles all around the eyes (yup, including the lids). This product is safe for all ages and all skin types and provides your delicate under-eye area with 24 hours of hydration to reduce dryness as it instantly brightens. It will deliver an instant dose of retinol, while also dosing retinol over time to minimise irritation and prolong the benefits. There’s a reason it’s the number one retinol eye serum in the US!

Dark Circles

If signs of fatigue or dark circles are your main concern then try opting for an eye cream that incorporates Vitamin C. Vitamin C is known for its brightening and tightening benefits as well as it’s ability to protect skin from environmental damage. The Muard Vita-C Eyes Dark Circle Corrector is the best in the bizz when it comes to brightening up dull under-eye skin. It enhances vitamin C and red algae which both help improve the look of under-eye puffiness, as well as delivering a balance of transparency and coverage to effectively colour-correct dark circles.

Vitamin C works especially well for the skin under or eyes as it is highly bioavailable for increased absorption and ensures the stability and potency of Vitamin C on the skin.

Dryness

If you feel like you don’t have a specific concern for your eye area so to speak but you still want to prevent any premature signs of ageing or darkness then the Skinsmiths PRO Collagen Eye Complex is the best all-rounder. This ceramide-enriched targeted eye treatment delivers retinol, Vitamin C and Hyaluronic Acid and is perfect for caring for your under-eye area - no matter what your specific concern may be. It’s also suited for all skin types, so come one come all to experience Skinsmith's countless benefits!

How to apply eye cream properly

Step 1: After you’ve cleansed, exfoliated (if it’s an exfoliation day of course) and applied all your serums, it’s time for eye cream. Eye cream should be your second to last step in your skincare regime (moisturiser will follow).

Step 2: Use your ring finger as this is your weakest finger so will have the most gentle application. Pushing too hard on your sensitive eye area can lead to wrinkles.

Step 3: Scoop a pea-sized amount of product onto your ring finger.

Step 4: Gently tap small dots under your eyes, starting at the innermost corner and moving outward. Avoid applying any product too close to your bottom eyelashes and this can get it in your eyes (ouch!) Try to think of motioning upward towards the top of the ears, but don’t drag.

Step 5: Pat the product on your skin gently. Avoid dragging or any harsh rubbing.

Step 6: Wait 2 minutes to let the cream fully absorb into the skin.

Step 7: Apply your moisturiser to lock in all the benefits.

Ready to put your best peepers forward?

As you’ve probably gathered, your under-eye area is deserving of its own special treatment, and neglecting to do so can bring on premature signs of ageing. If you’re on the hunt for your first eye cream then remember to look out for products that have delivery systems specifically formulated for the under-eye area. If you use normal heavier moisturisers these can actually build up in the under-eye area - often making the problems such as puffiness and dryness worse! Also, try to find a product that incorporates an ingredient that fits with your overall skincare goals. If fine lines and ageing are a concern, retinol is your best friend. If darkness and dullness are an issue, then Vitamin C is your best bet for success.

But it’s also important to be aware that some skincare concerns are genetic, and therefore there is only so much a good under-eye cream can do to help you solve it. Dark circles in particular are often a sign of hyperpigmentation which is often caused by genetics, and while certain ingredients can help to disguise it, no amount of eye cream will eradicate the problem altogether. But they absolutely can help, and a good eye cream coupled with a fab concealer is your best recipe for success when it comes to stubborn under-eye circles. And remember - more is not always better when it comes to skincare, be careful not to overdo it. If you use too much eye cream it might build up and lead to more puffiness so instead, stick to thin layers and pat in the product gently for the best results.

If you still have questions or aren’t quite sure which product is right for you, book a free consultation at your local Caci Clinic and the expert staff will be able to answer any questions you might have!

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