Eye Care

The skin around the eyes is very thin and does not contain many sebaceous glands. It is attached very loosely to the underlying muscles and lacks the fatty supporting tissue which is present in other areas of the face. As a result, the skin in the eye area is the first to show signs of ageing.

Dryness, crepiness and wrinkles appear prematurely if the skin is not cared for properly. There are many products on the market today that can help prevent premature ageing and slow down the ageing process. Eye care products also act to protect the eye area from many different factors relating to the ageing process. Below we have highlighted the various formulations in eye care products to help you decided on which ones are best for you.

Eye creams

These are moisturising creams which contain lightweight fatty materials so that they do not drag and stretch the skin. Very fine oil-in-water emulsions are absorbed easily by the skin and create a good base for eye make-up. Richer water-in-oil emulsions are greasier and are applied at night.

Apply using the ring finger gently stroking around the eye inwards and towards the nose.

Uses

    * Prevent formation of lines and wrinkles around the eyes
    * Richer eye creams are particularly good for dry or mature skins


Eye gels

These are astringents thickened with an ingredient such as methyl cellulose. They work by cooling, soothing, firming and tightening the skin. This is caused partly by the inclusion of plant extracts and partly by the evaporation of the in the gel.

Uses

    * Revitalises tired eyes and reduces the effects of fine lines, puffiness and slackness of the skin


Eye balms

A lightweight emulsion which can be applied under make-up.

Uses

    * Helps to prevent and minimise wrinkles
    * Revitalises the skin and restores elasticity
    * Softens, nourishes and moisturises the skin


Eye lotions

These are similar to eye gels but do not contain a thickening ingredient. A mild astringent is combined with plant extracts to produce a gentle lotion.

Uses

    * Usually applied with cotton wool pads as a compress to cool, soothe, tighten and refresh tired eyes


Tip: Never use your facial cleanser over the eye area (as this could cause problems ranging from premature ageing to puffiness and dark circles and the list goes on....) unless the cleanser is specifically for the entire facial area including your eyes. The eye area is very delicate and requires a separate cleanser. It's well worth investing in an eye cleanser.