Buying eye cream is often considered a waste of money, but it’s completely in vain. The skin around the eyelids is thin and more sensitive than other body parts. It is more susceptible to damage and inflammation. Besides, there are just a few sebaceous glands, meaning it doesn’t have enough oil to create a protective film and prevent moisture from evaporating. But don’t panic. We have a solution. There are plenty of skincare tips and beauty products to help you treat dry skin under the eyes and even reverse existing damage.
Why Do I Have Dry Skin Under Eyes?
Harsh Weather
According to a study from the Journal of the European Academy of Dermatology and Venerology, climatic conditions may negatively affect the skin. In the wintertime, the cold wind often provokes tears. As a result, the salty liquid contacts the skin under the eyes, damaging the already weak lipid barrier. This leads not only to dryness but also to irritation. In sunny weather, direct exposure to UV rays can cause hyperkeratosis – a protective reaction when the epidermis gets thick and rough.
Skin Diseases
There are several skin conditions that may dehydrate the area around the eyes. For example, ocular rosacea linked to autoimmune disorders can stop your skin from creating a protective film. As a result, it easily loses its moisture and becomes less resistant to the penetration of harmful substances. Another culprit is blepharitis caused by scalp or eyebrow dandruff. In this condition, the area around the eyes gets inflamed or swollen, preventing a normal pattern of peeling the dead skin cells.
Allergic Reactions
Why are allergies so annoying? The answer is simple. They come out of nowhere and can ruin your day. Usually, it takes just a few hours to get back to normal. However, in some cases, you may not be aware of what causes an allergic reaction and keep suffering from a histamine attack. The root of this issue is often related to exposure to new cosmetic products, dust, pet dander, or pollen. When you get in contact with an allergen, your immune system’s reaction can cause itching, inflammation, and a burning sensation. The worst thing is that you constantly want to scratch your eyes. By doing so, you damage the skin, influencing dryness and irritation.
Low Air Humidity
Although proper indoor humidity is crucial to health, we often overlook it. In an article by Goad and Gawkrodger, you find the confirmation of external environmental influences on the moisture content of the stratum corneum. In a room with central heating or AC, the air is usually too dry and can draw moisture from the uppermost layers of the skin, causing flakiness or even cracking. It also affects the eyes and may lead to dry eye syndrome.
Beauty Mistakes
No matter your age, there are many beauty mistakes that may bring havoc to your under-eye area. First of all, you might thoughtlessly select skincare products with bad alcohols like ethanol or methanol. They deteriorate your protective barrier and strip away natural oils. Another culprit is related to a common bad habit – sleeping with makeup on. Even a night without cleansing your face brings unnecessary exposure to free radicals in the environment. Finally, facial masks can bring not only benefits but also harm. Some people can wear them for hours, assuming that it’s better than short contact. However, prolonged mask use creates excess moisture that leads to breakouts and skin irritation. Learn more about the most common bad habits to keep your skin healthy and avoid unnecessary damage: “The Most Crucial Mistakes That Cause Dry Skin.”
Tips and Tricks to Prevent Dry Skin Under Eyes
- Switch to a mild, soap-free facial cleanser and use gentle, lukewarm water instead of hot.
- Avoid using toners containing bad alcohols, such as methanol and ethanol. Switch to lotions. They are gentler than toners. To make your choice easier, check out this article: “Toner vs Lotion: What is the Difference?”
- Pick an eye cream containing hyaluronic acid, vitamin E, or avocado. For the best results, apply a pea-sized amount of the product with your finger, starting from the inner corner underneath the eye to the brow bone. Be sure not to pull the skin while you’re doing this.
- Use eye makeup products that are hypoallergenic.
- If you use a facial mask, follow the instructions on the label. Don’t keep the mask on your face for longer than 30 minutes unless it’s a nighttime creamy eye treatment.
- Wash your pillowcase every 3-6 days with hypoallergenic detergent.
- Keep yourself hydrated with adequate fluid intake. Be aware that it is best to fill your body with plain water instead of drinking gallons of coffee or carbohydrate beverages.
Best Eye Cream Picks, According to Our Editors
When I pass by the shelves with Cetaphil products, I always wonder how they combine two rarely compatible elements necessary for customers: effectiveness and affordability. Most Cetaphil products suit all skin types and won’t cause irritation. It goes on smoothly, absorbs quickly, and moisturizes deeply. Based on many reviews, you may see the result within hours.
Avene is one of the most popular skincare lines sold for daily skin hydration in France. All products of this brand adapt to the natural pH of the skin, supporting barrier integrity and reducing transepidermal water loss. Their eye contour cream is something magical! It not only acts as a powerful moisturizer but also relieves severe itching and calms irritation. The product contains vitamin E, which effectively fights free radicals and reduces dark circles. Try it if you need to speed up recovery from eczema or contact dermatitis.
Kiehl’s is a famous American brand loved by many skincare enthusiasts. Their creamy eye treatment is chock-full of results-oriented ingredients, such as avocado oil, beta-carotene, and shea butter. Together, they create a perfect formula aimed at softening skin, preventing free radical oxidation, and defending against dehydration. The product has a thick texture and goes a long way. You will get a healthy under-eye glow and a hydrating base for makeup. Be careful with this product because you may easily become a forever fan.
La Roche-Posay eye cream mostly suits mature, dehydrated skin. Its main ingredients – pro-xylane and linactyl – replenish collagen and restore volume, giving the under-eye area a tighter, firmer, and visibly lifted appearance. The product also contains shea butter and apricot extract, which are well-known for their occlusive properties. They act as a barrier for your skin, protecting it from future damage and preventing moisture evaporation.
