When it comes to eye creams, there is often debate about the necessity of whether they need to be used as part of a skincare routine. While some view them as an essential part of their skincare routine to address specific concerns like dark circles and fine lines around the delicate eye area, the other side of the debate argues that a good moisturizer or serum can provide similar benefits. So, do eye creams really deliver the results they claim and are they a skincare routine essential? Let’s dig into what the science says, what’s just hype, and what actually works so you can decide if eye creams should be part of your skincare routine.
What Is The Purpose Of Eye Cream?
Eye creams are specifically formulated to address issues common in the eye area. Here are the most frequent claims you'll find on their labels:
- Reduce puffiness𑁋Eye puffiness is often caused by fluid retention, lack of sleep, or allergies, and is common among most people. Eye creams have ingredients like caffeine or cucumber extract to help brighten and de-puff.
- Help with under eye circles𑁋For those with dark under eye circles caused by genetics, pigmentation, or lifestyle factors, eye creams can help diminish their appearance.
- Smooth fine lines and wrinkles𑁋The delicate skin around the eyes is among the first areas to show signs of aging. Eye creams have ingredients like retinol, peptides, or hyaluronic acid to improve hydration and elasticity.
- Moisturize delicate skin𑁋Because the skin around the eyes is thinner than the rest of the face, it's more prone to dryness. Many eye creams emphasize their ability to deeply hydrate without overwhelming the sensitive area.
What Is The Science Behind Eye Creams?
To understand if eye creams actually work, it helps to take a closer look at what’s inside them. Most are packed with active ingredients aimed at tackling those common under eye concerns.
Common Skincare Ingredients
- Caffeine𑁋Known for its ability to constrict blood vessels, caffeine is touted as a key ingredient for reducing puffiness and temporarily improving the appearance of dark circles.
- Retinol𑁋A derivative of vitamin A, retinol “works by promoting cell turnover and stimulating collagen production, leading to a reduction in the visible signs of aging.”
- Hyaluronic Acid𑁋This ingredient is great because of its hydrating properties. It attracts moisture to the skin which can plump up fine lines and keep the delicate eye area hydrated.
- Vitamin C𑁋Effective for brightening and reducing hyperpigmentation, vitamin C can help even out skin tone and reduce the appearance of dark circles.
Do You Really Need An Eye Cream?
This answer depends on your skin’s needs. The skin around your eyes is thinner and more delicate than the rest of your face, making it more prone to dryness, fine lines, and puffiness. While some people can get by using over the counter moisturizer around the eyes, many benefit from formulas specifically designed to target under eye concerns, so an eye cream would be a good addition to your skincare routine.
How To Choose An Eye Cream
Here are some tips to help you choose the right eye cream:
- What are your needs? For puffiness, look for caffeine or green tea extract. For dark circles, products with vitamin C or niacinamide are best. For fine lines, choose something with retinol or peptides.
- Avoid products with irritants𑁋Choose formulas that are fragrance-free and tested for sensitive skin. The eye area is delicate, and harsh ingredients can cause irritation.
- Check for SPF𑁋Using an eye cream with SPF is best to protect against UV damage.
If you're new to using eye creams, start with a patch test. It’s best to do this on the back or your hand because it can be closely monitored for reactions. Shop our recommended eye creams.
The most important aspect of skincare is consistency, whether you use an eye cream or not. To find out whether or not you should use eye cream for your skin type, reserve an appointment so we can discuss personalized skincare options.
