The skin around our eyes is one of the most delicate and expressive areas of our face, playing a crucial role in conveying emotions and framing our features. However, this sensitive skin is also prone to showing signs of ageing, fatigue, and stress, making it a common concern for many of us.
Skincare routines are evolving. With the rise of skin minimalism, more people are asking: Do I need an eye cream, or is it just another marketing gimmick? Eye creams aren’t essential for everyone, but they’re not hype either.
We spoke to Dr Vidushi Jain, Dermatologist and Medical Head, Dermalinks in Noida Ghaziabad, who explained the importance of eye creams and whether it is necessary to use them.
The Eye Area: A Special Challenge
The skin around the eyes may be one of the smallest patches on the face, but it's also one of the most fragile and intricate. "Eyelid skin is much thinner than the rest of the face, often just 0.5 mm thick, and lacks the oil glands that keep other parts of the face naturally moisturised. This leaves it more open to dehydration, fine lines, and sensitivity," explained Dr Jain.
Additionally, the eyes are in constant motion, blinking, squinting, and smiling, which adds mechanical stress to the area. With quicker drainage and thinner fat cushioning, this can result in premature ageing signs like crow's feet, puffiness, or dark circles, even though the rest of your skin is good.
Also Read: When Should You Ideally Apply Your Eye-Cream? Dermat Weighs In
What's Special About Eye Creams?
"Eye creams aren’t just miniature moisturisers. They’re specifically formulated to target the unique challenges of the eye area using active ingredients in lower, safer concentrations that minimise irritation," added Dr Jain.
Here’s what you’ll normally find in a well-formulated eye cream:
Peptides stimulate collagen production, helping to reduce fine lines and wrinkles
- Hyaluronic acid for intense hydration without heaviness
- Caffeine constricts blood vessels and reduces puffiness
- Niacinamide or Vitamin K to brighten under-eye darkness
- Retinol (gentler forms) to improve texture and signs of ageing
These ingredients are usually blended in a light base that's calm enough not to provoke irritation on sensitive under-eye skin. According to a review published in the Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, some anti-ageing eye products have been found to achieve clinically relevant improvements in skin texture and wrinkle depth.
Also Read: Look For These Ingredients While Buying An Eye Cream
Do You Need Eye Cream?
The necessity of an eye cream varies considerably with your age, lifestyle, and what concerns you:
- In your 20s: A simple moisturising eye cream containing hyaluronic acid or ceramides can serve as a preventive measure. Consider it an early investment in your skin's future.
- In your 30s and beyond: Fine lines, dryness, and dark spots emerge. This is where a focused ingredient, such as peptides, antioxidants, or low-dose retinoids can work wonders.
- For makeup users and sensitive skin: Daily makeup application, especially of concealer or mascara, can cause irritation or dryness. A calming, non-fragranced eye cream helps maintain the skin barrier.
If you already use a gentle, fragrance-free moisturiser that works well under the eyes and you don’t have specific concerns like puffiness or dark circles, you can skip the eye cream. In such cases, consistent sun protection and good hydration will do most of the heavy lifting.
Bottomline
Dr Jain concluded, "Even if not essential for everyone, eye creams aren't a waste of time. They provide specialised attention to one of the most sensitive and expressive parts of your complexion. If issues like puffiness, wrinkles, or darkening plague the under-eye region, a decent eye cream can be an extremely effective addition to your skincare regimen."
[Disclaimer: This article contains information provided by an expert and is for informational purposes only. Hence, we advise you to consult your professional if you are dealing with any health issue to avoid complications.]