Beyond finding the right ingredients, it’s essential to avoid the wrong ones, says Jennifer Levine, MD, a board-certified facial plastic surgeon in New York, NY. “It is important to find a product that does not contain pore-clogging ingredients, as this can cause milia,” she warns. Though they look similar to whiteheads, milia are very hard cysts made of keratin buildup under the skin that cannot be easily or safely removed at home. Paraffin and mineral oil can lead to the formation of milia. If you’re prone to these little bumps, Frank recommends seeking out a gel cream rather than a thicker texture.
How to Hydrate the Undereyes
While the best eye creams for dry skin will help improve texture around the eye, there’s more to keep in mind beyond your skin-care regimen. First, consider your environment: “Cold or arid climates, as well as air conditioners and heaters, lower the humidity in the atmosphere,” says Newman. Invest in a humidifier to add that 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 leads to dull, wrinkled-looking skin. (Caffeine, alcohol, and excess sodium will also cause dehydration, notes Frank, as can minimal sleep.) You’ll want to pay attention to your nutrition, too. Levine recommends boosting your omega-fatty acid intake, either via supplements or foods like nuts, seeds, plant oils, and fish. Ultimately, “no eye cream can reverse poor lifestyle choices,” says Frank.
Can eye cream help with dry undereyes?
Just as a good body lotion can help keep skin nourished, a hydrating eye cream can help dry undereyes. “For chronic dryness, eye cream is an important part of the puzzle,” confirms Levine. However, very dry skin around the eyes could be a sign of something more serious, says Frank. “Sometimes, dryness in this area can be related to conditions like eczema or seborrheic dermatitis, especially during cooler months or periods of stress,” he explains. “If conventional eye creams aren’t resolving the issue 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, CA.