The skin around our eyes typically shows signs of aging before anywhere else. Fine lines, dark circles, and puffiness are too common as we age.
Aging causes the skin to slow down collagen production and lose elasticity, leading to wrinkles and sagging skin, especially under your eyes, where the skin is thinner.
While you can’t turn back the clock, there are some things you can do to keep your eye areas looking young and healthy.
Protect Yourself from the Sun
One of the most significant sources of skin damage is exposure to sunlight.
Always wear sunscreen outdoors, and thoroughly cover every tiny bit of exposed skin. Be careful not to get any in your eyes, and apply sunscreen around your eyes and even on the eyelids.
You can help protect your eyes and skin by wearing sunglasses or a wide-brimmed hat outdoors.
Moisturize Frequently
Dryness will worsen the appearance of your skin, so make sure to keep it moisturized.
You can use a cream or lotion that contains added ingredients, such as:
- Vitamin C
- Vitamin A
- Peptides
- Hyaluronic acid
- Aloe Vera
These can help your body produce more collagen and elastin, which will help keep your skin looking young and healthy.
Also, stay fully hydrated by drinking plenty of water each day, as even mild dehydration can prevent your skin from looking its best.
Avoid Irritants, Allergens, and Toxins
Because the skin around your eyes is so delicate, avoiding anything that could cause irritation or inflammation is extra important.
If you notice a reaction after using a new makeup or skincare product, discontinue use immediately.
If you tend to experience bad allergies, try to keep your eyes and surrounding areas as clean as possible. This means avoiding rubbing your eyes, which can worsen puffiness and redness. Talk to your doctor about an antihistamine treatment plan if allergies are a big problem for you.
If you are a cigarette smoker, quitting is one of the best things you can do for your overall health, including the health of your skin. In addition to the countless harmful effects of smoking, it damages the collagen and elastin that keep your skin looking young. It also constricts the blood vessels in your skin, reducing blood flow and preventing essential nutrients from getting where they need to go.
Eat Healthier Foods
The way you eat affects how you look. A diet full of processed foods, added sugars, and unhealthy fats can cause your skin to look dull, inflamed, and wrinkled.
To help your skin look its best, eat plenty of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. These foods are packed with antioxidants that can help protect your tissues from damage. They also contain essential vitamins and minerals that your body needs to produce the proteins that keep your skin looking firm and elastic.
Omega-3 fatty acids are also great for your skin. This can be found in seafood such as salmon and tuna, as well as in nuts and seeds.
Consult with your primary care physician or a dermatologist for personalized recommendations on the best care for your skin.
