Elizabeth Banks - the definition of glowing. Well, not the exact definition. Maybe the definition of radiant. Photo: Getty
The eye area, along with the hands and décolletage is often considered forgotten territory when it comes to sunscreen and skincare, making it one of the first areas to show signs of ageing. Add to that the fact that the skin surrounding the eye area is paper-thin and it’s little wonder that skincare experts, like Gabby Samra from Luxe Skincare in Sydney, believe eye creams to be worth their weight in gold.
Good habits start young
“There’s a misconception that 35 –when the first signs of ageing start to settle in, is the golden age to start using eye cream," says Samra."But when you consider most of the damage such as sun exposure happens in our early twenties, it makes sense to start using one earlier."
The beauty of getting in early on the act is that even if the skin surrounding the eye area is firm, an eye cream will continue to keep the skin hydrated so that when the smile lines do eventually kick in, they won’t look anywhere near as deep.
Handle with care
The skin surrounding the eye area is ultra delicate and sensitive, so you want to avoid pulling and stretching the skin as you apply the product. The same rule applies for when you’re blending concealer and removing makeup at night. As a general guide, all you need to do is dot the product from below the lower lash line across to the outer corner of the eye. Then gently pat the product into the skin, taking it down toward the cheekbone before working any excess across the eyelid, out to the temple and below the brow bone.
Hot tip: when it comes to smoothing the product into the skin, always use your ring finger as it doesn’t apply anywhere near as much pressure.
4 Eye Creams To Try Now
The steal: Burt’s Bees Sensitive Eye Cream, $29.95, from pharmacies, Priceline and David Jones. The fragrance-free and hypoallergenic formula means it’s perfect for eye-cream novices and contact lens users. Plus, the nifty pen-like applicator means you can map out the eye area with just the right amount of product before blending.
The SPF special: DDF Doctors Dermatologic Formula Anti-Ageing Preventative Protective Eye Cream SPF, $74.95, from Mecca Cosmetica, www.meccacosmetica.com.au. Just as big on hydrating as it is defending, it boasts broad spectrum SPF to stop sun-related lines from developing, as well as antioxidants and essential fatty acids for long-lasting hydration.
The science buff: Yves Saint Laurent Forever Youth Liberator Eye Cream, $99, 1300 651 991. It’s part of one of the most advanced skincare line launches of 2012, but complicated patented scientific terms aside, it glides on like a dream to leave tired, dull-looking skin feeling instantly smoother.
The splurge: Estee Lauder Re-Nutriv Ultimate Lift Age-Correcting Eye Crème, $200, www.esteelauder.com.au. Unlike most souped-up eye creams that tend to feel greasy on, this one settles with a near matte finish so it won’t cause the concealer and eye shadow that follow to crease.
