According to the National Institute on Aging (NIA), your skin undergoes a number of changes as it ages. For example, it becomes thinner and loses its plumpness of youth. People who spent years outdoors or lying in the sun may notice an increase in dryness, age spots and facial lines, including dark circles and wrinkles around the eyes. An ever-growing number of creams, gels and other treatments are available to improve the quality of aging skin and reduce under-eye wrinkles.
Under Eye Creams
According to the University of Maryland Medical Center (UMMC), the skin under your eyes is thin and delicate and doesn't produce nurturing oils that help maintain the skin's softness and elasticity. Under-eye gels and creams are touted as having the ability to diminish puffiness, tighten the skin and reduce dark circles.
Benefits
The UMMC says eyes creams work by either temporarily tightening blood vessels to keep fluids from building up or through the use of a transparent film that briefly firms the skin. According to skincare.com, some of the other promoted benefits of under-eye creams are to moisturize and protect the eyes from additional damage.
Types
Day eye creams often contain an SPF to offer sun protection outdoors. They are said to minimize puffiness and dark circles. Night eye creams offer similar benefits, but tend to be heavier and more emollient
Application
Use a gentle touch when applying eye creams or gels. The UMMC says due to the fragile nature of the skin around the eyes, aggressively rubbing the creams under your eyes may actually cause the formation of more wrinkles. Eye products should be applied with a light tap of your finger to arouse the skin.
Laser Resurfacing
The Mayo Clinic says laser resurfacing is a useful treatment for minor facial imperfections. This procedure may diminish the appearance of fine lines around your eyes, mouth and cheeks.
During laser resurfacing an intense beam of light energy (laser) destroys the outer layer of skin while simultaneously heating the underlying skin. This encourages new collagen growth. As the area of treatment heals, new smoother and firmer skin begins to form.
Prevention
The Mayo Clinic says avoiding sun exposure, especially during the midday, is the best thing you can do for the health of your skin. Too much sun can cause premature wrinkling around the eyes and elsewhere. Apply sunscreen 30 minutes before heading outside.
Smoking can also contribute to eye wrinkles due to frequent squinting to keep smoke from getting in your eyes. The Mayo Clinic says smoking restricts small blood vessel and diminishes blood flow. This harms the fibers that preserve the strength and firmness of your skin.
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