We all have those mornings when we wake up, stagger to the bathroom and stare into the mirror at some tired, puffy eyes.
Whether it’s simply from ageing, stress, genetics or sleepless nights (this one’s for you mums!), different factors can affect the youthful glow of our eyes. Here are some tips to help with dark circles, puffiness, dryness and wrinkles.
DARK CIRCLES
HYALURONIC ACID:
The skin under your eyes is ultra thin and needs to be kept hydrated. Eye creams that include hyaluronic acid is a great way to hydrate and brighten up this region, helping to mask any darkness.
TURMERIC:
This spice is excellent for brightening complexions, evening out skin tone and reducing inflammation. A turmeric eye mask is filled with anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties and is super easy to make at home. All you need to do is mix 1 tablespoon of turmeric with 1 tablespoon of milk in a small bowl and apply to under-eyes using a cotton ball. Leave on for 15 minutes and then carefully rinse off.
PUFFINESS
COOL AS A CUCUMBER:
Puffiness can be a result of excess fluid caused by water retention, allergies or swelling due to skin irritation. Cucumbers have been used for years as a home remedy for puffy eyes because of their detoxifying and diuretic properties. They contain vitamin C and antioxidants that can help soothe and support the skin. Plus, since they’re stored in the refrigerator, the cooling action can help decrease swelling and tighten skin for a little bit of relief. Place a cool cucumber slice on each of your closed lids, and take a rest for 15–30 minutes.
TEA BAGS:
Green and black teas contain caffeine, which tightens skin and prevents the excessive accumulation of fat in cells. Caffeine also stimulates blood circulation and antioxidants that protect skin from the effects of aging. For this remedy, place two tea bags in a cup of hot water. Remove tea bags from the cup and allow them to cool to room temperature. Place them on your closed eyes for 15–30 minutes. Doing this once or twice a week can help tighten the skin under the eyes, as well as provide soothing benefits.
DRYNESS
ALOE VERA GEL:
It’s not just for burns! Aloe contains tonnes of antioxidants and has numerous antibacterial, antifungal, antiviral, and other healing properties. A little gel can help soothe tired eyes by moisturizing the skin and providing relief.
HYPOALLERGIC CONCEALERS:
Concealers are typically used under the eyes to mask dark rings but can cause dryness to this sensitive eye area. Opt for a hypoallergenic concealer that is not so harsh on the skin. Another tip is to properly remove the concealer before you go to bed. Switch to a mild, soap-free facial cleanser and massage in gentle strokes. Rinse with lukewarm water instead of hot.
WRINKLES
VITAMIN C:
Dermatologists love vitamin C, and for a good reason. The little antioxidant softens rough patches, shields your skin from damage and fades scars. Vitamin C stimulates collagen production and helps prevent fine lines whilst smoothing the existing ones you may already have.
SUNSCREEN:
Since the skin around the eye is extremely thin (up to 1/10 thinner than skin found elsewhere), UV rays can penetrate the area very easily, destroying collagen and causing wrinkling. Avoid sun exposure as best you can by adding a SPF 30+ sunscreen to your daily skin routine.
DARK CIRCLES
HYALURONIC ACID:
The skin under your eyes is ultra thin and needs to be kept hydrated. Eye creams that include hyaluronic acid is a great way to hydrate and brighten up this region, helping to mask any darkness.
TURMERIC:
This spice is excellent for brightening complexions, evening out skin tone and reducing inflammation. A turmeric eye mask is filled with anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties and is super easy to make at home. All you need to do is mix 1 tablespoon of turmeric with 1 tablespoon of milk in a small bowl and apply to under-eyes using a cotton ball. Leave on for 15 minutes and then carefully rinse off.
PUFFINESS
COOL AS A CUCUMBER:
Puffiness can be a result of excess fluid caused by water retention, allergies or swelling due to skin irritation. Cucumbers have been used for years as a home remedy for puffy eyes because of their detoxifying and diuretic properties. They contain vitamin C and antioxidants that can help soothe and support the skin. Plus, since they’re stored in the refrigerator, the cooling action can help decrease swelling and tighten skin for a little bit of relief. Place a cool cucumber slice on each of your closed lids, and take a rest for 15–30 minutes.
TEA BAGS:
Green and black teas contain caffeine, which tightens skin and prevents the excessive accumulation of fat in cells. Caffeine also stimulates blood circulation and antioxidants that protect skin from the effects of aging. For this remedy, place two tea bags in a cup of hot water. Remove tea bags from the cup and allow them to cool to room temperature. Place them on your closed eyes for 15–30 minutes. Doing this once or twice a week can help tighten the skin under the eyes, as well as provide soothing benefits.
DRYNESS
ALOE VERA GEL:
It’s not just for burns! Aloe contains tonnes of antioxidants and has numerous antibacterial, antifungal, antiviral, and other healing properties. A little gel can help soothe tired eyes by moisturizing the skin and providing relief.
HYPOALLERGIC CONCEALERS:
Concealers are typically used under the eyes to mask dark rings but can cause dryness to this sensitive eye area. Opt for a hypoallergenic concealer that is not so harsh on the skin. Another tip is to properly remove the concealer before you go to bed. Switch to a mild, soap-free facial cleanser and massage in gentle strokes. Rinse with lukewarm water instead of hot.
WRINKLES
VITAMIN C:
Dermatologists love vitamin C, and for a good reason. The little antioxidant softens rough patches, shields your skin from damage and fades scars. Vitamin C stimulates collagen production and helps prevent fine lines whilst smoothing the existing ones you may already have.
SUNSCREEN:
Since the skin around the eye is extremely thin (up to 1/10 thinner than skin found elsewhere), UV rays can penetrate the area very easily, destroying collagen and causing wrinkling. Avoid sun exposure as best you can by adding a SPF 30+ sunscreen to your daily skin routine.
EYETALITY
Reviewed by Michelle Pienaar
on
November 03, 2020
Rating:
Reviewed by Michelle Pienaar
on
November 03, 2020
Rating:
