Is Eye Cream Necessary?
Eye creams are a controversial topic in skincare. Being a licensed esthetician, I get questions ranging from “do I have to use an eye cream?” to “what is the best eye cream for dark circles?”. I want to provide some clarity around this topic and present if it is worth it to buy an eye cream, as well as when you can probably skip eye cream.
Does Everyone Need an Eye Cream?
Whether or not you need an eye cream is not up for debate, but what is up for debate is whether or not eye cream needs to be a separate product from your face products. Many brands use eye creams as a money-making tactic to convince people they need to spend more on a cream that is formulated especially for the delicate eye area.
Unfortunately, a lot of times the ingredients used in eye cream formulations are no different than those used in facial creams or moisturizers. Yes, you should be applying products around your eyes to nourish the skin and address concerns, but this may not have to be a separate product formulated for the eye area. An “eye cream” just needs to be quality products formulated with nourishing and non-irritating ingredients.
On the other hand, some product lines that are pharmaceutical grade or extremely active are simply too harsh for the delicate under-eye area. If this is the case, you should use a separate eye cream. For example, if your facial cream does not have hydroxy acids or retinol and is just hydrating it is probably fine for the under-eye area, but if it has high concentrations of exfoliating ingredients such as AHAs, BHAs, and retinol you will want to get a separate eye cream to avoid irritation.
Beneficial Ingredients for the Eye Area
The type of cream you put around your eyes depends entirely on your under-eye skin concerns and what you would like to improve. Skincare packed with vitamins, antioxidants, and other superstar ingredients are what you want to look for. Just as the rest of your face needs protection from the sun, your under eyes do as well. Be sure to apply your SPF adequately but carefully around the eye area, again a mineral SPF is best for this.
If your main concerns are under-eye puffiness and dark circles, look for ingredients like…
Green tea extract
Caffeine
Vitamin C, E and K
If your main concerns are age-related such as fine lines and wrinkles, you want to incorporate the same anti-aging ingredients you would use on your face on the under-eye area. Such ingredients can include vitamin A and retinol products to regenerate the skin. Again, just make sure if you are using active ingredients on the under-eye area, that it is in a product specially formulated for the delicate under-eye skin.
Lifestyle Factors to Consider
Although skincare is a helpful tool in treating skin concerns it can only do so much. It is important to note that both puffiness and darkness under the eyes can be symptoms of lack of sleep, allergies, nutrition, and underlying health issues. The healthier you are the healthier and better looking your skin will be. The best thing you can do for your skin overall is to make lifestyle choices that support your health and will in turn support your appearance.
Don’t hesitate to seek the help of a dermatologist or esthetician who can help you evaluate your skincare needs and create a treatment plan that supports your skincare goals. You can also always consult with your Pomp Esthetician to discover what eye cream is best for you and if you truly need one.
