The fragile skin around our eyes is commonly the first to reveal traces of ageing, weariness, and environmental stress. Fine lines, wrinkles, puffiness, and dark circles may make us look tired even if we are not. Step in eye cream, a specialised treatment that is meant to moisturise, shield, and resuscitate this delicate region. However, owning an eye cream is not enough; understanding when to use it is key to getting the most out of it and obtaining those coveted youthful eyes.
Therefore, when an eye cream should be applied is a thoughtful incorporation for your current skincare routine. Consider it a dance, with each step leading to the other. To make things easier for you we spoke to our expert, Dr Sanjeev Gulati, Dermatologist, Department of Dermatology, Sharda Hospital, Noida and he shared the golden rule with us. Here’s what you need to know!
The Golden Rule: After Cleansing, Before Moisturising
This is the most widely accepted and effective placement for your eye cream. After thoroughly cleansing your face, your skin is a clean slate, free from makeup, dirt, and impurities. This allows the potent ingredients in your eye cream to penetrate more effectively without any barriers. Applying it before your main facial moisturiser ensures that the richer, often thicker, moisturiser doesn't create a film that could hinder the absorption of your eye cream.
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Morning Magic: Prep and Protect
Morning preparation and protection are all about your routine. After washing, lightly pat a pea-sized pea-sized amount of eye cream around the orbital bone with your ring finger. This is the finger that uses the least pressure, which is important for the sensitive area around the eyes. In the morning, emphasise eye creams that provide:
- Hydration: To plump out fine lines and create a silky smooth canvas for applying makeup.
- Antioxidants (such as Vitamin C, green tea extract): To fight free radical damage from environmental stressors such as pollution and UV exposure.
- SPF (optional): While most facial sunscreens contain it, some eye creams contain a low SPF, giving the area an added layer of defense.
- De-puffing agents (such as caffeine, cucumber extract): To reduce morning puffiness and wake up tired-looking eyes.
- Let your eye cream soak in for a minute or two before continuing on to your facial serum, moisturiser, and SPF.
Nighttime Nirvana: Repair and Renew
Evening is when your skin enters repair mode, so it's a good time for more heavy-duty eye treatment. Put your eye cream on after cleansing, followed by your evening serum and moisturiser. Nighttime eye creams frequently include:
- Retinoids (retinol, bakuchiol): To boost collagen production to help erase the look of fine lines and wrinkles. Begin with a low concentration and gradually build up as your skin adapts.
- Peptides: For elasticity and firming.
- Ceramides and Hyaluronic Acid: For intense hydration and barrier repair.
- Rich Emollients: For heavy-duty nourishment while you sleep.
When to Change Your Timing
Although the ‘after cleansing, before moisturising’ axiom is a strong rule, there are subtle subtleties:
- If you use a particular prescription retinoid: Ask your dermatologist. She may suggest following your retinoid with your eye cream to reduce potential irritation, or even propose a particular order depending on the formulation of the product.
- Listen to your skin: If you notice a certain order pilling or stinging, try applying it slightly differently. But remember, always apply on clean skin.
Bottomline
Consistency is key when it comes to eye cream. By knowing the best time which is after washing and prior to your regular facial moisturiser, morning and evening, you release the full benefits of these concentrated treatments. By applying them strategically, you allow for maximum uptake of active ingredients, so your eye cream can do its job and hydrate, protect, and revitalise, to ultimately reveal a brighter, more youthful eye. So go ahead, make application of eye cream a thoughtful and regular aspect of your daily routine, and have your eyes mirror the healthy brilliance you deserve.