How to Decrease Eye Wrinkles

How to Decrease Eye Wrinkles
Photo Credit eye image by Pali A from Fotolia.com

Eye wrinkles are a natural part of aging, when collagen production slows down and skin becomes less elastic. Environmental factors can cause eye wrinkles as well, such as prolonged sun exposure and smoking. These factors take away from the health of skin. Natural and cosmetic changes can help to decrease the appearance of eye wrinkles and make you appear younger and healthier.

Step 1

Apply a moisturizing cream designed to reduce the appearance of eye wrinkles and increase collagen production. Look for a cream that contains retinol, alpha tocopherol or glycolic acid, and apply it at least once a day.

Step 2

Drink water regularly throughout the day. Plain water flushes toxins out of your body that can lead to wrinkles and puffiness around your eyes. According to the Mayo Clinic, you should drink enough water so that you rarely feel thirsty.

Step 3

Exfoliate your skin. Facial exfoliating scrubs containing microbeads and soaps containing salicylic acid can be used with a cloth or scrubbing brush to remove dead skin cells. Exfoliate in the direction perpendicular to your wrinkles and repeat the process twice a week. The new skin revealed underneath will be smoother and lighter.

Step 4

Get plenty of sleep at night. Aim for about 7 to 8 hours and sleep with your head elevated. This will reduce bags, water retention and puffiness under your eyes that make wrinkles more pronounced.

Step 5

Discuss the use of prescription creams with your doctor. Tretinoin creams stimulate collagen production and decrease wrinkles, roughness and age spots. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, prescription strength tretinoin cream can reduce the appearance of wrinkles after 2 to 6 months. These creams can cause an increased sensitivity to the sun, so avoid excessive sun exposure if you use them.

Step 6

Discuss medical procedures with your doctor. Depending on the amount of wrinkles around your eyes, you may be able to reduce their appearance with chemical injections, peels or microdermabrasion. These treatments may involve more than one session, but often provide the best results for deep wrinkles.

Tips and Warnings

  • Prevent future eye wrinkles by protecting yourself from sun exposure with hats and sunscreen. Sun damage causes premature aging and more wrinkles. You can also avoid smoking and remove eye makeup with gentle cleansers that won't damage the sensitive skin around your eyes. You can hide the appearance of eye wrinkles using cosmetics. According to The New York Times Health Guide, moderate coverage foundation with a matte finish followed by an application of facial powder can reduce the appearance of wrinkles in the eye area.

Things You'll Need

  • Eye cream
  • Water
  • Exfoliating scrub or soap
  • Cloth or scrubbing brush

References

Article reviewed by Mia Paul Last updated on: Aug 24, 2010

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