Girl, you need an eye cream!

Eye cream is one of those products that some say are a must and others say it not that important?

My personal opinion is that an eye cream is a MUST, no matter your age! Some dermatologists recommend using one to care for the particularly delicate and sensitive skin around the eyes, while others argue that it’s an unnecessary - and expensive - extra step. “Eye creams are just elegant moisturizers, formulated to match the pH of your tears so [they are] less irritating, My personal opinion is that any moisturizer is all you need in that area.” (According to board-certified dermatologist Dr. Aegean Chan)

What is the difference between Moisturizer and Eye Cream?

A moisturizer can be used almost anywhere on the body. A moisturizer is intended to maintain and/or increase hydration of the skin surface. An eye cream, on the other hand, is specifically formulated to be used underneath the eyes, an area where the skin is notoriously delicate and prone to showing signs of aging. As such, it tends to be lighter in texture and feature active ingredients—such as hyaluronic acid or vitamin C—that target specific concerns.

Depending on the ingredients [it contains], an eye cream can have moisturizing, anti-inflammatory or antioxidant effects [which helps protect the skin against environmental stressors that can cause premature aging, like UV rays and pollution]. It can also reduce puffiness, brighten the skin, or reduce the appearance of fine lines in the area.

Is it safe to use moisturizer as an eye cream?

Of course, moisturizers could be used as an eye cream. However, the composition of a moisturizer may not be as suitable for the skin around the eyes, given how delicate and thin the area is. An eye cream is specifically formulated to be gentle. Keep in mind that the skin around the eyes is the first to show signs of aging, so a skincare product made to target these concerns can be both preventative and reparative.

Also, according to Hania Shehadeh, Odacité’s Head Esthetician. "Moisturizers tend to have heavier oils and acids that can cause eye and skin irritation."

What’s the best technique for applying eye cream?

Despite its name, eye cream should not be applied too close to the eyes, such as on the eyelids or directly under your bottom lashes. Apply a pea-sized amount around both eyes, gently tap around the orbital bone with your ring finger and then smooth it out to the temple.

What ingredients should consumers look for when shopping for eye cream?

There are a few key ingredients to look for when it comes to eye cream. The best ingredients to look for are:

- include hyaluronic acid and ceramides [to hydrate]

- retinol [to target wrinkles]

- vitamin C [to treat dark circles]

- caffeine [to reduce puffiness]

Some plant-based ingredients like aloe, hyaluronic acid, algae, or seaweed extracts and lightweight oils like jojoba to soothe and hydrate, as well as green tea and caffeine extract are great options too.

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Information extracted from www.chatelaine.com and written by Souzan Michael Galway. (Thank you)