5 habits that accelerate the aging of the eye area

Genetics, sun exposure, pollution, stress, sleepless nights and expression lines, add all of this and the result is “crow’s feet”, dark circles and bags around the eyes. No one is immune to the natural aging of the skin, but some bad habits significantly increase the condition.

Therefore, Dr. Paola Pomerantzeff, dermatologist and member of the Brazilian Society of Dermatology, points out the most common bad habits and gives tips on how to avoid and alleviate premature aging in this region. Check out!

1. Rubbing the eye area

It is common knowledge that we must remove all makeup before bedtime. However, removing does not mean rubbing, even though some waterproof eyeshadows and mascaras are stubborn in leaving the skin.

“Removing makeup in a careless way can cause damage to the delicate skin of your eyes, which can result in dark circles. Use an oil-based makeup remover. A micellar solution can also do the job without having to rinse your face,” says Dr. Paola Pomerantzeff.

two. Do not use creams

An eye cream is one of the most important components of your anti-aging routine. According to Dr. Paola Pomerantzeff, the skin around the eyes is the thinnest in the entire body, which makes it much more sensitive and susceptible to damage, and, in addition, we blink thousands of times a day, that is, this Constant movement generates the first signs of aging.

3. Using the wrong cream

Eye creams are different and created for different functions. “For fine lines or crow’s feet, look for a cream that contains retinol. For dark circles, the ideal is to use creams that contain lightening agents such as vitamin C, licorice and niacinamide; Vitamin K and arnica are also effective in relieving swelling and improving the appearance of discoloration,” explains the dermatologist.

In the case of swelling and bags around the eyes, in addition to reducing the consumption of salty foods and alcohol – the main culprits for the accumulation of liquid under the eyes – the doctor recommends using a cream that contains caffeine. “It stimulates circulation and constricts blood vessels under the skin, reducing the appearance of puffy eyes. As an antioxidant, it also protects the skin from sun damage”, adds Dr. Paola Pomerantzeff.

4. Applying the cream incorrectly

The way you apply the cream also makes a big difference. As the dermatologist explains, the correct way is: “After washing your face and before applying the serum and moisturizer, use a pea-sized amount of eye cream or gel. Wait a few minutes before applying your sunscreen or makeup to ensure the product is completely absorbed.”

5. Wrong food

A healthy lifestyle remains the best defense against aging eyes. “In your diet, make sure you have foods rich in nutrients needed for brighter, younger-looking skin around your eyes: vitamin K, which encourages collagen production and new cell growth; vitamin C, which brightens the skin and prevents further damage, and vitamin B, which increases the production of fatty acids, which helps the skin retain elasticity”, concludes the dermatologist.

By Maria Claudia Amoroso