Do You Really Need An Eye Cream?

Some dermatologists recommend using an eye cream, while others debate using an eye cream instead of just a facial moisturizer may seem as unnecessary – more expensive with extra product and an extra step.

So what’s the difference between facial moisturizer and eye cream?

A moisturizer is intended to maintain increase hydration of the skin surface. It can be used almost anywhere on the body, however, you would want to reserve it for the most important areas such as face and neck. Furthermore, you would want a moisturizer for the face to be formulated with the best ingredients needed to protect and repair your skin.

On the other hand, an eye cream, is specifically formulated to be used around the eyes. This area is delicate and prone to showing signs of aging. Because of this, eye creams, or gels, tends to be lighter in texture and contain key ingredients—such as vitamin C, caffeine, peptides, and ceramides, that specifically target concerns.

Generally speaking, facial moisturizers can be used as an eye cream. However, the composition of a moisturizer may not be as suitable for the skin around the eyes, given how delicate and thin the area is. An eye cream is specifically formulated to be gentle. Facial moisturizers tend to contain heavier oils and acids that can cause eye and skin irritation.

Additionally, a condition called milia can form that causes small, painless white bumps to form on your face (often on the cheeks) or eyelids. They’re actually tiny cysts that form under the skin when keratin, a protein naturally produced by your body, becomes trapped. This can happen if you are using a moisturizer that contains heavier creams or oils, in combination with the build-up of dead skin.

Depending on the ingredients, an eye cream can have moisturizing, anti-inflammatory or antioxidant effects. It can also reduce puffiness, brighten the skin or reduce the appearance of fine lines in the area.

Eye creams may contain retinol / “vitamin A” and should be safe to use given they are formulated specifically for the eye contour. However, if you are using a facial moisturizer around the eye, use with caution, as medical grade products are potent in their concentrations of retinol / vitamin A. It would not be recommended for long term use as you may react and it will cause irritation.

Applying an eye cream

Don’t apply eye cream close to the lash line such as on the eyelid, too close to the eyes and same with the bottom. Apply a pea-sized amount around both eyes, gently tap around the orbital bone with your ring finger to the temple and then smooth under the eye back to the temple.