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The skin under our eyes is less than one millimeter thick. We blink an average of 10,000 times each day, so it’s no wonder this area requires special daily care to stay protected and hydrated. The right care can also help reduce the appearance of dark circles, puffiness, signs of fatigue, and fine lines. “We often use the under eye as a reference point for assessing skin dehydration,” says Yolanda Franco, training director of Maria Galland Paris.
The importance of moisturizing your under-eye area
“Proper hydration of the under eye area not only helps maintain the skin’s natural ability to self-hydrate, which is crucial for overall skin health, but it also strengthens the eye’s skin barrier, reduces signs of fatigue, and leaves the area more plump and smooth,” emphasizes Franco.
Since the skin around the eyes is so sensitive, you can cause unintentional damage by doing the smallest things. “Every time we rub our eyes without appropriate care, we risk breaking the blood vessels in the area and causing tiny tears in the skin’s elastic fibers. This can lead to sagging and puffiness,” explains Franco. Additionally, when we cry, the skin around the eyes can become dry and more sensitive because of the 7.5 pH of tears.
How to minimize dark circles and expression lines
If the skin around the eyes is not properly hydrated, it can weaken the skin barrier and compromise its protective function. “Insufficient hydration leads to more pronounced blood vessels and dark circles under the eyes, more flaking, increased sensitivity, and lack of elasticity,” explains the expert.
Another effect of inadequate hydration, as noted by Franco, is the appearance of wrinkles and unwanted expression lines. “The thinness of this skin and its lower oil content mean it can get particularly dehydrated. If the skin’s barrier isn’t well-maintained, it’s more difficult to protect against the sun, pollution, smoke and repetitive facial expressions, all of which can make dehydrated skin even more apparent.” Additionally, poor hydration can lead to signs of fatigue, which is a common concern for many.
Follow a moisturizing routine
Using a hydrating face cream can be enough to keep the eye area protected. However, for those in need of extra hydration, there are specific products designed for the eye contour, such as masks, patches, and serums. “It’s crucial to moisturize during both your morning and evening routines,” advises Franco.
She recommends avoiding excessive rubbing or sudden movements around the eyes. When applying eye contour products, it’s best to use gentle, light movements and to apply them only in the area where there is no bone. “Be careful not to get too close to the tear trough to avoid causing eye irritation and, consequently, dehydration,” she warns.
