If you are beginning to notice a few fine lines and want to start taking preventative measures against heavier set wrinkles, or you already have heavy-set wrinkles you wish to combat, an under-eye cream is a great way to do it. Under-eye creams are formulated with different purposes in mind. Some are for use during the day, and others are used at night.
Similarly, some under-eye creams focus on wrinkles, dark circles, and puffy eyes. The truth is, if you are in your 60s, an eye cream will not erase your wrinkles or make you look like you did when you were 20. Instead, they can make you look up to five years younger, healthier, more energized, and glowing.
Choosing the right under-eye cream can seem complicated as there are so many products to choose from. However, you will find that many use similar ingredients, and the best products don’t necessarily have the most potency but a potency level that is best for your skin type.
How Old Are You?
They say you should never ask a lady her age, but you should consider it before purchasing an under-eye cream. When you are younger and do not have fine lines or wrinkles, you can choose an under-eye cream intended to prevent lines and the signs of aging. When you get older, your needs will change. You may need to purchase creams with stronger anti-aging abilities, perhaps with higher concentrations of hyaluronic acid, Vitamin C, and skin-firming properties.
Once you hit your 30s, you no longer need preventative creams. In fact, it’s time to find something stronger. Many under-eye creams are advertised for use when you are of a certain age. This makes choosing the right under-eye cream for your needs much easier.
Let's Talk About Retinol
Retinol is often used in under-eye creams. It is manufactured from Vitamin A and is used to combat the signs of aging. A more powerful version called retinoid is available from a doctor or pharmacist for acne patients. However, the retinol we are talking about is available over the counter and has several benefits for your skin.
Once applied, retinol absorbs into the skin and penetrates the outer layer. It neutralizes free radicals that cause premature aging and stimulates the skin to produce collagen and elastin. When used regularly, your skin will look younger, and your pores will even look smaller.
Retinol makes your skin more sensitive to sunlight, so it should be used as part of your evening routine. However, when used in the day, it makes your skin more likely to become sunburnt. Some people also have a mild allergic reaction to retinol, which can cause itchiness, redness, and skin peeling. If you react to retinol products, we recommend ceasing using them.
If you find regular use of retinol-containing products makes your skin dry, reduce the regularity of how often you use them. You may also want to purchase less potent versions of retinol. Weaker over-the-counter retinoids include retinaldehyde and retinyl palmitate.
Similarly, although not a retinoid, neuropeptides are a good alternative to retinol. It is a natural product that stimulates collagen production as retinoids do.
Hyaluronic Acid to Combat Dark Circles
Hyaluronic acid absorbs moisture from the air and pulls it into the skin. This plumps and brightens the skin, reducing dark circles and fine lines. The highest over-the-counter hyaluronic acid you will find is about 2%. However, some people use the most potent hyaluronic acid straight away.
However, like many other substances you put on your skin, it can cause allergic reactions. So unless you have deep-set wrinkles, choose a lighter amount of hyaluronic acid and work your way up to something more substantial. Similarly, use natural hyaluronic acid, and you are less likely to have any kind of bad skin reaction.
Other Fabulous Ingredients
There are many beneficial ingredients you can look for in an under-eye cream. One of the best ingredients to look for is antioxidants. Antioxidants are sometimes listed as antioxidant-containing ingredients like Vitamins C and E.
Antioxidants combat free radicals such as UV rays, pollution, and allergens. Vitamin C will also lighten dark spots and balance uneven skin tones. Caffeine is another great ingredient to look for. Caffeine reduces puffiness under the eyes and reduces the appearance of dark circles. It does this by boosting circulation.
Ceramides are another ingredient to look for. Ceramides are produced by the skin and are integral to keeping the outer protective layer intact. As we age, the body produces fewer ceramides, so it is a great idea to top them up with under-eye cream.
