Written by Alicia Lartey
Image by @Sxge_Aesthetic
Eye creams can be a very polarising topic in the skincare community, some people swear by them whilst others vehemently believe they are just another money grab from brands. I personally remain on the fence when it comes to eye creams, as an aesthetician I find myself only recommending eye creams that either sim to brighten or manage fine lines and wrinkles through the inclusion of anti-pigmentation ingredients and retinoids.
It is well documented that the eye area has thinner skin compared to the rest of the face which makes it slightly more sensitive and prone to irritation. For the rest of the face we are able to use a higher concentration of actives, whereas in the eye area it is advised to use a low percentage of actives to avoid potential irritation, although this tolerance can be built up over time. Brands will typically include skin conditioning agents in their formulas for eye creams such as glycerin, peptides and fatty acids. These ingredients are able to give the eye area an instant plumping effect. As a long term solution to under eye concerns ingredients such as retinol and vitamin c, paired with skin conditioning agents help to reduce under eye hyperpigmentation and texture.
Skin concerns such as fine lines and wrinkles require active ingredients which are usually a lesser percentage than what is used on the rest of the face, which makes this an instance in which a specialised eye cream is useful for. My personal list of eye cream recommendations remains short (although each of them are gems), I find myself rotating between at least three different eye creams to address my skin concerns.
Avène Physiolift Eye Cream
This particular eye cream contains retinaldehyde, which works faster than retinol to boost cellular turnover and as a result diminishing unwanted fine lines and wrinkles. Most retinal formulations tend to be on the pricey side, so the Avene Physiolift Eye Cream, is an absolute bargain. The retinal in the physiolift formula is paired with peptides to give an immediate plumping effect.
Sunday Riley 5-Stars Eye Serum
Sunday Riley truly have a gem on their hands with the 5-Stars Eye Serum! Containing niacinamide (a star anti-oxidant), this eye cream is great for brightening the under eye and protecting it from free radical damage. The applicator is also ergonomically made to make application of the eye cream easier and allow for depuffing using the ceramic tip applicator.
The INKEY List Retinol Eye Cream
One of the most popular eye creams on the market is the Inkey List Retinol Eye Cream! Although this product would not work as fast as a product containing retinaldehyde, the price point makes it an easy win for most skincare lovers. Similarly to retinal, retinol helps with hyperpigmentation, texture and signs of ageing.
Pro Tip: with all of the eye creams that are mentioned, I would recommend applying them after toner and before moisturiser in the evening for the best results.
