Skincare Hacks: How to Get Rid of Crepey Skin Under Eyes
Are you looking for a way to get rid of the dreaded crepey skin under your eyes? You're not alone!
We've all experienced this at some point - those wrinkles, lines, and sagging that strikes fear in many a beauty enthusiast. But don't worry – you don't need to resort to drastic surgeries or invasive treatments just yet.
To prevent crepey skin, start with the basics: moisturizers, sunscreen protection, and lifestyle adjustments. It may sound like common sense but these are often overlooked remedies when it comes to targeting aging skin around the eye area.
In this article, we'll cover why crepey skin occurs in the first place before diving into tips on how you can reclaim hydrated and soft looking skin without straying from your daily routine!
Hydration is the Key
One of the most crucial aspects of combating crepey skin under the eyes is proper hydration. Keeping the skin well-moisturized from both the inside and outside helps improve its elasticity and reduce the appearance of fine lines. Here's how you can ensure optimal hydration of your skin.
Use an Eye Cream
Invest in a hydrating eye cream specifically formulated to address the delicate skin under the eyes. Look for ingredients like hyaluronic acid, ceramides, and peptides, which help boost hydration and plump the skin.
Gently apply the eye cream morning and night, using your ring finger to avoid tugging or pulling on the delicate skin. For extra absorption, you can apply a layer of Vaseline over your eye cream. For dark circles under your eyes, consider an eye cream with caffeine in it!
Drink Plenty of Water
Hydrating the skin from within is equally important. Make sure to drink an adequate amount of water throughout the day to keep your body and skin hydrated. Hydration really is the key to healthy skin.
Protecting from Sun Damage
Sun exposure is one of the leading causes of crepey skin and premature aging. The fragile skin under the eyes is particularly susceptible to sun damage. Protecting this area from harmful UV rays is essential to prevent further skin deterioration. Follow these steps for sun protection:
Wear Sunglasses
Invest in high-quality sunglasses that provide 100% UV protection. This will shield the under-eye area from harmful sun rays and minimize squinting, which can contribute to the formation of fine lines. Plus, you'll look like a movie star.
Apply Sunscreen
Before heading outdoors, apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30 to the entire face, including the under-eye area. Reapply every two hours, especially if you're spending an extended period in the sun. If you can't remember to apply sunscreen, use a foundation or CC cream with sunscreen already in it.
Tint Your Car Windows
If you live in a sunny place, you know how much time you can spend squinting in traffic. Plus, your car windows may not protect you as much as you may think.
According to The Skin Cancer Foundation, while car windows blocks UVB rays, they generally don't block UVA rays.
Windshields are treated to protect you from some UVA, but your back, side, and sunroof windows usually aren't treated.
So you should still protect yourself with clothing, sunglasses and sunscreen when driving your vehicle.
Incorporate Retinol into Your Skincare Routine
Retinol, a derivative of vitamin A, is a powerhouse ingredient in skincare known for its ability to stimulate collagen and elastin production, improve skin texture, and reduce the appearance of wrinkles. When used correctly, retinol can be highly effective in addressing crepey skin under the eyes:
Start Slowly
Begin by introducing a low-concentration retinol product into your skincare routine. Apply a pea-sized amount to the under-eye area, ensuring it's fully absorbed before moving on to the next step. Only use it twice a week until your skin gets used to it.
Gradually Increase Frequency
Initially, use retinol every other night to allow your skin to adjust. As your skin becomes more tolerant, you can increase the frequency to nightly use. Follow the product instructions and consult a dermatologist if you have any concerns.
Apply Moisturizer
To minimize potential dryness or irritation from retinol, follow up with a gentle, hydrating moisturizer after the retinol has been fully absorbed. A moisturizer with hyaluronic acid is especially helpful as it keeps your skin moisturized longer.
You can also follow your moisturizer with a serum such as squalane oil or rosehip oil for extra hydration.
Consider Non-Invasive Treatments
In some cases, non-invasive treatments can provide significant improvements in the appearance of crepey skin under the eyes. Consult with a dermatologist or aesthetician to determine the best treatment option for you. Some effective options include:
Chemical Peels
Chemical peels involve the application of a solution that exfoliates the top layers of the skin, removing dead skin cells and revealing smoother and more youthful-looking skin underneath.
Light or medium-depth peels can target crepey skin under the eyes and increase collagen production. If you have sensitive skin, consult your dermatologist or esthetician before considering a chemical peel.
Laser Treatments
Laser resurfacing treatments, such as fractional laser therapy, can help improve the texture and tighten the skin under the eyes. These treatments promote collagen synthesis and minimize the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
Microneedling
Microneedling is a procedure that involves creating tiny punctures in the skin to stimulate collagen production and improve skin texture. It can be effective in reducing crepey skin under the eyes when performed by a trained professional.
Adopt Healthy Lifestyle Habits
In addition to the specific skincare measures, adopting a healthy lifestyle can contribute to overall skin health and reduce the appearance of crepey skin under the eyes. Here are some key lifestyle habits to consider:
Get Sufficient Sleep
Sleep matters! Aim for a consistent sleep schedule and prioritize getting 7-8 hours of quality sleep each night. Sufficient rest allows the skin to repair and regenerate, contributing to a more refreshed appearance.
If possible, avoid sleeping on your face. Sleeping on your back is best for your aging skin. Using a special silk or satin pillowcase can help even more because it prevents tugging on your skin!
Maintain a Balanced Diet
Consume a diet rich in antioxidants, vitamin c, and minerals to support skin health. Include plenty of fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and healthy fats in your meals. Avoid sugar and junk foods as much as possible, though it can be difficult. Avoid fast food as well!
Avoid Smoking and Limit Alcohol Intake
Smoking and excessive alcohol consumption can accelerate the aging process and contribute to the development of crepey skin.
Quitting smoking and moderating alcohol intake can have positive effects on the skin's overall appearance. Alcohol can dehydrate your entire body. If you do drink alcohol, alternate a glass of water between every drink.
Dr. Dray, a dermatologist, offers even more enlightening tips about preventing and treating crepey skin in this helpful YouTube video.
Good Habits Lead to Bright Eyes
Crafting the perfect under-eye skincare routine may seem daunting at first, but it’s worth the effort! A few simple steps, such as including retinol and making sure to protect from sun damage, will go a long way in helping you achieve those much sought-after youthful and smooth eyes.
Don’t forget that non-invasive treatments can also be used for an extra boost of rejuvenation to your skin.
It may take a bit of trial and error to determine what works best for your unique skin type, so be patient with yourself as you seek out the ideal combination of products.
With perseverance and determination, your under-eye area will become smooth and glowing - what more could you want?
