In addition to finding the right ingredients, it’s also important to avoid using the wrong ones, says New York State board-certified facial plastic surgeon Jennifer Levin, MD. “It’s important to find a product that doesn’t contain pore-clogging ingredients, as this may cause milia,” she warns. Although milia look similar to whiteheads, they are very hard cysts formed from a buildup of keratin under the skin and cannot be easily or safely removed at home. Paraffin and mineral oil can cause milia to form. If you’re prone to these little bumps, Frank recommends choosing a gel cream instead of a thicker one.
How to Hydrate Dark Circles
While the best eye creams for dry skin can help improve the texture around your eyes, there’s more to remember than just your skin care regimen. First, consider your environment: “Cold or arid climates, as well as air conditioners and heaters, reduce the humidity in the atmosphere,” says Newman. Purchase a humidifier to add moisture back into the air. Then, take an honest look at your lifestyle. All of our experts agree that it’s important to drink plenty of water, as dehydration can lead to dull, wrinkled skin. (Caffeine, alcohol, and excess sodium can also cause dehydration, as can lack of sleep, Frank points out.) You also need to pay attention to your nutrition. Levin recommends increasing your intake of omega fatty acids through supplements or foods such as nuts, seeds, vegetable oils and fish. Ultimately, “no eye cream can reverse poor lifestyle choices,” Frank says.
Can eye cream help treat dry dark circles?
Just like a good moisturizer can help keep your skin nourished, a hydrating eye cream can help dry dark circles. “For chronic dryness, eye cream is an important piece of the puzzle,” Levine confirms. However, Frank says very dry skin around the eyes can be a sign of a more serious problem. “Sometimes dryness in the area can be related to conditions like eczema or seborrheic dermatitis, especially during colder months or times of stress,” he explains. “If traditional eye creams don’t resolve the problem and your skin remains dry and flaky, see a board-certified dermatologist for a proper evaluation.”
Meet the experts
- Paul Jarrod Frank, MD, is a board-certified dermatologist in New York, NY.
- Jennifer Levine, MD, is a board-certified facial plastic surgeon in New York, NY.
- Nathan Newman, MD, is a board-certified dermatologist in Beverly Hills, California.