The undereye area, which is said to be different from the skin on our cheeks, is one of the first body parts to show signs of aging. This is why many recommend using a special product for this area to combat wrinkles, dryness, and other visible signs of aging that can make us look older than we actually are.

But how true is this? Why is the skin under the eyes the first area to noticeably age? Is face moisturizer enough or do we really need an eye cream/similar product to keep the eye area healthy? Continue reading as we dive a little deeper into how aging affects the skin around your eyes and how to properly care for it to maintain a youthful appearance. 

Significantly thinner skin

The skin around the eyes, especially on the eyelids, is considered the thinnest skin layer on the body. The eye area has an average thickness of around 0.1mm (ranging from 0 to 0.5mm), compared to the cheeks, which is about 1.85mm. And because it is so thin, you can sometimes see through the skin under your eyes. 

The thinness of the skin makes it more vulnerable to damage, including dryness, irritation, and visible signs of aging. It also has a weaker skin barrier, resulting in higher rates of trans epidermal water loss. This then increases the skin’s susceptibility to dehydration and environmental aggressors. 

Biologically older than the rest of the face

The delicateness of the skin around the eyes causes the area to age faster than the rest of the face and body. In fact, studies have suggested that the under eye skin is biologically older by 22.25 years than the skin on the temples. The upper eyelid skin, being the thinnest skin on the entire body, is about 28.75 years older than that of the temples.

It is also worth noting that as we age, the skin naturally produces less collagen, which can contribute to visible signs of aging. This effect is particularly noticeable around the eyes, resulting in fine lines, wrinkles, and sagging skin. Also, frequent blinking and facial expressions cause micro-movements that can contribute to aging in the area.

Higher level of cellular senescence

Cellular senescence refers to the phase where cells stop functioning properly and no longer replicate, but still release harmful molecules that lead to inflammation. It is said to promote aging and contribute to many age-related or degenerative diseases. Senescent cells are also referred to as zombie cells because they are defective cells that just won’t die. 

Research suggests that cellular senescence tends to be higher in the skin around the eyes compared to other areas of the face. This is mostly attributed to the skin’s delicateness and increased exposure to UV radiation and other environmental aggressors. Higher cellular senescence means the skin in this area lacks ability to repair and regenerate damage.  

Solutions for brighter, more youthful eyes

Dr. Sylvia Skin Care offers two eyecare solutions that can wake up the look of dull and tired eyes, as well as reduce visible signs of aging.

• Brilliant Eye Complex – a multitasking eye cream that hydrates the delicate skin around the eyes for a younger-looking eye area. Benefits include: 

• Reduces the appearance of fine lines

• Minimizes the look of puffiness

• Reduces the appearance of dark circles

• Delivers tailor-made hydration

• Prepares your skin for makeup

• Espresso Eye Lift – a caffeine-infused formula that gives the eyes a refreshed and rested appearance. It revitalizes the area, so you can wake up to rejuvenated eyes each day. Benefits include: 

• Reduces puffiness and under-eye bags 

• Lightens dark circles and brightens the under-eye area 

• Awakens and energizes tired eyes 

Tips for caring for the skin around the eyes

Apart from using the right eyecare products, taking better care of the skin around your eyes can help reduce the effects of aging and the appearance of the most common eye area concerns. Here are a few tips:

• Get adequate sleep – Lack of sleep not only makes you feel tired the next day, but also contributes to or worsens the appearance of dark circles and puffiness. Aim to get at least seven hours of sleep each night and keep a consistent sleep and wake schedule. You might also want to sleep on your back or use silk/satin pillowcases, which are gentler on your skin than cotton.

• Protect the skin from the sun – Prolonged and unprotected sun exposure can increase your risk of having lines and wrinkles around the eyes. This only makes it important to apply broad-spectrum sunscreen or a formula that is suitable for sensitive skin around the eyes. You can also benefit from wearing wraparound sunglasses with UV protection or a wide-brimmed hat. 

• Moisturize regularly – The area is prone to dryness due to its lack of oil glands. Moisturizing the skin not only helps maintain a healthy skin barrier, but also reduces the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, dark circles, and puffiness. It can also keep the area looking plump and smooth. 

• Be gentle – As the skin around your eyes is delicate, make sure to handle it with care. Apply your makeup/skincare lightly or use your ring finger to dab the product, using a light tapping motion. Avoid vigorous rubbing and always be gentle when cleaning the skin or removing makeup. 

Get in touch with us

Elevate your skincare with eyecare essentials and other medical-grade products from Dr. Sylvia Skin Care. And if you have concerns such as wrinkles, puffiness, and dark circles that you wish to improve or treat, you can also consider professional treatments such as injectables and energy-based procedures. Contact Cutis Medical Laser Clinics in Singapore today to learn more or book a consultation with our aesthetic doctor.