Lines around our eyes represent years. Years of smiling; years of laughing; years of living. While we think wrinkles are something to celebrate, they are often vilified. What should be called smile lines are given the moniker: crows feet.
As we age, these lines are unavoidable. Gravity does its thing and the skin around our eyes becomes looser and more delicate. And there’s no harm in trying to slow down the process just a little bit.
So, how can we avoid fine lines around our eyes? Does an eye cream for wrinkles really work?
There’s been a long debate over the necessity and efficacy of eye creams for wrinkles. Some swear by them, morning and night. Others think they’re a farce. So, what’s the truth?
“Eye creams are not necessary for everyone, but can be helpful for addressing specific concerns such as puffiness, sallowness or hollowing, dark circles, fine lines, or dryness,” says Nina Gajic, the founder of Skin Virtue. “They are particularly helpful if you have sensitive or dry skin around the eyes or want to prevent signs of ageing.”
However, she notes, not all eye creams are created equal. “Their effectiveness can vary widely depending on the ingredients and formulation. When considering an eye cream, look for one that matches your specific needs and skin type.”
The best eye cream for crow’s feet and wrinkles? One that is specifically formulated to target the delicate skin around the eye area, where fine lines tend to be more prominent.
“Eye creams contain nourishing, restoring and replenishing ingredients that help to diminish the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles,” the skincare expert says. “By regularly applying an eye cream, you can work to minimise the depth and visibility of these age-related skin concerns. Properly hydrated skin is less likely to exhibit pronounced wrinkles, and many eye creams are formulated to keep the skin around your eyes well-hydrated. This added moisture can help smooth out the skin’s surface, making wrinkles less noticeable.”
The best cream for eye wrinkles will also improve the skin’s elasticity. “Some formulations include ingredients that stimulate collagen production, which enhances the skin’s elasticity and resilience,” says Nina. “Enhanced elasticity can lead to reduced sagging and a firmer, more youthful appearance. If you’re dealing with both dark circles and wrinkles, some eye creams are specially crafted to tackle both issues. These formulations frequently incorporate ingredients known for their ability to minimising the prominence of wrinkles and also include ingredients that such as Caffeine for its vasoconstrictive properties, which means it can temporarily narrow blood vessels.”
Antioxidants and vitamins are also often found in eye creams. “These beneficial components help protect the skin from environmental damage, which can accelerate the formation of wrinkles. They act as a shield, safeguarding the delicate skin around your eyes from the effects of UV radiation and other external aggressors.”
As for when to start using eye cream, if you’re after a preventative measure, start young. “By incorporating an eye cream into your skincare routine, particularly at a younger age, you can help maintain the skin’s vitality and resilience, potentially delaying the onset of visible signs of ageing.”
Looking for the best under eye cream for wrinkles? Here are the 10 of the best.
01
First Aid Beauty, Skin Lab Retinol Eye Cream
$78
This may be the best eye cream for wrinkles. It stimulates natural collagen production and cellular turnover to minimise the appearance of crow’s feet, fine lines and wrinkles. Delivering retinol over time, making it safe to use around the eye area, it will leave your eyes looking hydrated, firmer and rejuvenated.
02
Philosophy, Anti-Wrinkle Miracle Worker
$85
Full of natural ingredients, this cream targets lines and wrinkles around the eyes while diminishing the look of dark circles and puffiness.
03
Dermalogica, MultiVitamin Power Firm
$111
This cruelty-free cream with a powerful firming complex targets visible lines around the eye area using skin-rebuilding antioxidant vitamins, protective Organic Silicones and Seaweed Extract.
04
Lancôme, Advanced Génifique Eye Cream
$123
With a silky texture, this prebiotic and probiotic rich gel-cream hydrates and delivers visible results for brighter, younger-looking eyes.
05
Kiehl’s, Powerful Wrinkle-Reducing Eye Cream
$74
With Copper PCA and Calcium PCA, this anti-wrinkle eye cream smooths under eye texture, improves elasticity and reduces eye puffiness.
06
Alpha-H, Liquid Gold Firming Eye Cream
$114.95
With peptide technology, this liquid gold eye cream targets wrinkle depth, hyperpigmentation and skin roughness.
07
Skin Virtue, Pure Eye Radiance Cream
$60
This rich anti-ageing eye cream targets premature ageing and the look of puffy skin around the delicate eye area.
08
Paula’s Choice, Anti-Ageing Eye Cream
$46.40
For overnight results, try this balm-like cream with anti-ageing ingredients for your eyes.
09
Estēe Lauder, Advanced Night Repair Eye Supercharged Gel-Creme
$135
This gentle, expertly-formulated eye cream targets eye lines and signs of ageing in just one week. Itrightens under eyes and reduces the appearance of tiredness.
10
Clinique, Repairwear Anti-Gravity Eye Cream
$85
Lift around your eyes and erase the look of fine lines with this densely hydrating cream. It also builds cushion into time-thinned skin.
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