Let’s talk about the delicate skin around your eyes.
You know, the area that makes you look wide-awake or tired, depending on how much you’ve slept (or not) the night before.
It’s no secret that the skin around our eyes needs some extra TLC, which is where eye creams come in.
These specialized creams are designed to hydrate and protect the thin and fragile skin around your eyes, as well as target dark circles and fine lines.
But here’s the million-dollar question: do you really need a separate eye cream, or is it just another marketing gimmick?
| this post may contain affiliate links, which means if you purchase from one of these links, I may receive a small commission at no additional cost to you. |
What makes the skin around your eyes different
Alright, let’s get nerdy for a second and talk about what makes the skin around your eyes so different from the rest of your face.
First, it’s super thin and delicate – like, paper-thin. That’s why it’s one of the first areas to show signs of aging, like fine lines and wrinkles.
Another fun fact: there aren’t many oil glands around your eyes, which means this area gets dry and dehydrated easily.
And let’s not forget about the impact of your facial expressions. Every time you squint, smile, or frown, you make little creases in the skin around your eyes.
Over time, those creases can turn into deep wrinkles if you don’t take care of them properly.
Are there any real benefits to using a separate eye cream?
Okay, so we know that the skin around our eyes needs some extra love.
But why use a separate eye cream instead of just using your regular moisturizer?
Lighter texture
Eye creams are specifically designed for the delicate skin around your eyes. They tend to have a lighter texture and contain gentle, non-irritating ingredients.
Targeted hydration
One of the biggest benefits of using an eye cream is moisturization – this area gets dry and dehydrated easily, so it’s important to keep it hydrated to prevent fine lines and wrinkles.
See also: The best anti aging products for your 20s
But you could just use a regular moisturizer so take that for what it’s worth.
Plus, a good eye cream can help improve the overall texture and tone of the skin around your eyes.
So, if you want to keep those crow’s feet at bay and maintain a bright-eyed look, investing in a separate eye cream can definitely be worth it!
Targeted treatment
Eye creams can also provide targeted treatment for specific concerns, like if you have dark circles and fine lines you’d like to fade.
These creams often contain powerful ingredients like retinol, vitamin C, and caffeine, which can help brighten your under-eye area and reduce the appearance of wrinkles.
Protection against environmental stressors
And let’s not forget about the importance of protecting your skin against environmental stressors, like pollution and UV rays.
Some eye creams contain antioxidants and SPF to shield your delicate eye area from damage.
So, whether you’re dealing with dark circles or just want to keep your under-eye area looking bright and youthful, a separate eye cream can come in handy.
Arguments against using a separate eye cream
Now, I’m going to play devil’s advocate for a second and talk about some arguments against using a separate eye cream.
They’re overpriced, with no significant difference from regular facial moisturizers
One of the biggest criticisms of eye creams is that they’re often overpriced and not significantly different from regular facial moisturizers.
And you know what?
There’s some truth to that.
Some eye creams can be pretty expensive, and if you’re already using a great moisturizer, you may not see a significant difference in using a separate eye cream.
Plus, some people argue that the active ingredients in eye creams are often found in other skincare products, so it’s not necessarily a unique formula.
I’ve used eye creams before (finished the bottle). Did I notice a difference around my eyes? Meh.
Though I did notice a difference months after I stopped. So maybe it was doing something.
The ingredients can be harmful
Another argument against using a separate eye cream is that some ingredients found in these products can actually be harmful to the skin around your eyes.
For example, some eye creams have fragrances or essential oils, which can be irritating or allergenic for some people.
And let’s not forget about the preservatives and other chemicals that can be found in some eye creams – not all ingredients are created equal.
Additional steps/products can make the routine overwhelming and unnecessary
Finally, some people argue that adding an extra step to their skincare routine with a separate eye cream can be overwhelming and unnecessary.
Which I get.
Sometimes it’s hard enough to just wash your face and slap on some moisturizer.
But, if you’re already investing time and energy into your skincare routine, adding a separate eye cream can be a small but impactful step to take.
So how to decide if you need a separate eye cream?
Well, it really comes down to preference and goals.
If you’re dealing with dark circles, fine lines, or dryness around your eyes, then a separate eye cream may be worth the investment. I’ve used eye creams before and using it didn’t hurt.
But if you’re not particularly concerned about your eye area, would rather use that money for something else or have other skincare priorities, then you could probably skip it.
Not everyone wants to or has the time or money to invest in a separate eye cream, and that’s okay!
At the end of the day, it’s all about finding a skincare routine that works for you and makes you feel confident and beautiful.
Therefore, whether you decide to invest in a separate eye cream or not, just remember to take care of yourself and your skin.
3 Alternatives to a separate eye cream
If you’re not sold on the idea of using a separate eye cream, don’t worry – there are alternatives!
#1
Use of a gentle, fragrance-free facial moisturizer
One option is to use a gentle, fragrance-free facial moisturizer instead. While this won’t give you targeted treatment, it can still help keep the skin around your eyes hydrated and healthy.
Here are a few fragrance-free facial moisturizers that you can use around your eyes:
CeraVe Facial Moisturizing Lotion
This moisturizer contains ceramides and hyaluronic acid, which help to hydrate and restore your skin’s natural barrier. It’s also non-comedogenic and free of fragrances, making it a great option for the sensitive skin around your eyes.
La Roche-Posay Toleriane Double Repair Face Moisturizer
Formulated with prebiotic thermal water and ceramides this face moisturizer helps to soothe and repair the skin’s barrier. It’s also oil-free and fragrance-free, making it a good choice for use around the eyes.
First Aid Beauty Ultra Repair Cream
This rich, emollient cream is perfect for dry, sensitive skin. It contains colloidal oatmeal, shea butter, and ceramides to help soothe and hydrate, and is also free of fragrances and irritating ingredients.
Drunk Elephant Lala Retro Whipped Cream
Using a blend of six rare African oils and other nourishing ingredients this creamy moisturizer helps to hydrate and improve the skin’s texture. It’s also fragrance-free and free of essential oils, making it an excellent choice for use as an eye cream.
Remember, these are just a few suggestions.
Always make sure to patch-test any new products before applying them to your face, and if you’re ever in doubt, consult a dermatologist.
#2
Use a serum or mask
Another alternative is to use an eye serum or hydrating mask a few times a week to help address dark circles or puffiness.
Here are a few targeted eye serums and eye masks:
Kiehl’s Powerful-Strength Line-Reducing Eye-Brightening Concentrate
This serum is packed with vitamin C and hyaluronic acid to help brighten and hydrate the delicate eye area. To use, apply a small amount of serum to your ring finger and gently pat it onto your under-eye area and eyelids.
The Ordinary Caffeine Solution 5% + EGCG
This serum is designed to reduce the appearance of dark circles and puffiness around the eyes. It contains caffeine and EGCG (a compound found in green tea) to help stimulate circulation and reduce inflammation. To use it, put a small amount of serum on your finger and gently pat it onto your under-eye area and eyelids.
Laneige Eye Sleeping Mask
This hydrating eye mask contains caffeine and vitamin P to help reduce puffiness and brighten the under-eye area. Put a small amount of the mask on your under-eye area and eyelids before bed, and leave it on overnight.
How to add an eye serum or mask to your skincare routine
use them after cleansing and toning, but before moisturizing.
- Start by applying a small amount of serum to your ring finger and gently pat it onto your under-eye area and eyelids.
- Then, wait a few minutes for the serum to absorb before applying your moisturizer.
- If you’re using an eye mask, you can use it 2-3 times per week before bed, after washing your face. Follow the instructions and rinse if need or leave it on overnight.
#3
Try a cold compress and a massage
And let’s not forget about some good old-fashioned DIY remedies – using cold compresses or gently massaging your eye area can help alleviate puffiness and promote circulation.
Just be gentle and avoid tugging or pulling on the delicate skin around your eyes.
Recap, Do you really need a separate eye cream?
While there is a valid debate over whether or not one needs a separate eye cream, one thing is clear: it’s important to take care of the delicate skin around the eyes.
Whether you decide to invest in a separate eye cream, use alternative options, or skip this step altogether, what matters most is finding a skincare routine that works for you and that you can stick with.
At the end of the day, skincare is personal, and what works for you won’t necessarily work for someone else and vice versa.
And remember, regardless of whether or not you choose to use a separate eye cream, taking care of your skin is a form of self-care and an important way to show yourself some love.
