How Do I Choose the Best Eye Cream?

If you are concerned about the skin around your eyes, you'll probably want to choose an eye cream or other high-quality moisturizer to protect this area. You should also know that cosmetics experts are divided on the issue of whether it is a good idea to purchase a specific moisturizing product for the eye area. Some believe that all you need is a good moisturizing cream or lotion for your entire face, while others argue that a specialized product is needed. Regardless of the product that you choose to use as an eye cream, you should make sure that it contains a good sunscreen, that it does not irritate your eyes, and that its consistency does not cause your eye makeup to wear off during the day.

Any eye cream that you use should include a sunscreen that provides a sun protection factor (SPF) of at least 15. Without a good sunscreen, the delicate skin around your eyes is very vulnerable to sun damage, which is a significant contributor to wrinkling. The sunscreen included in the product should also provide protection against UVA and UVB rays, as each type can cause different types of damage to your skin. Sunscreen ingredients that are capable of providing this protection include avobenzone, zinc oxide, and titanium dioxide. Read the product's ingredient list to make sure that it lists one or more of these sunblocks.

When possible, sample an eye cream or moisturizer to test whether it leaves a greasy residue on your skin. One problem with using emollient skin care products around the eyes is that they can sometimes compromise your eye makeup by causing it to smear. For daytime use, consider using an eye cream that absorbs quickly into your skin. If you really like a heavier product, try applying it before you go to bed and then switching to a lighter cream or lotion during the day.

Before purchasing a product that contains antioxidants, make sure that it is packaged in an airtight tube or bottle. Some cosmetics experts believe that wide mouth jars can compromise the integrity of antioxidants and other ingredients. Pay attention to how your eyes react to a specific cream. Eyes are a sensitive area, so if you use a product that contains irritants, such as essential oils or fragrances, you may find that your eyes react badly to these ingredients. If you notice that your eyes become irritated after using a product, stop using it and see a doctor if your irritation persists.