Who doesn’t like a pair of sparkling eyes?
Someone wise once said that the eyes are the windows to the soul, and they are usually the first thing that we notice when we meet someone new.
Eyes do a lot of work – they show every emotion on our faces and are subjected to late nights, computers and makeup (not to mention extreme eyelash-batting and the mere fact that we blink on average 17 000 times a day.) The skin around our eyes is the thinnest skin anywhere on our bodies, at just 0.6mm, has hardly any oil glands and fewer support fibres, so little wonder fine lines become visible here before any other part of the face.
Luckily for us, there are lots of lovely potions to keep your peepers in great shape. Eye products look expensive when you see how little is in the container, but do bear in mind that you use very little – a tiny dab on your fingertip – and so they last for quite a long time. Investing in an eye product is one of the best skincare purchases you will ever make. Whether your preference is for gels, creams or serums, your eyes deserve some love !
GELS:
These lightweight, non-greasy formulas are great for younger skins which don’t need anything too rich yet. Easily absorbed and cooling, they are excellent de-puffers after a late night out and give a temporary tightening to the skin.
Steal
Yardley Oatmeal Eye Fix It Soothing Eye Gel R59.95
Garnier Caffeine Eye Roll-on R105.95 – loved the cool freshness of the metal roller !
Spend
Almay Sensitive Care + Eye Gel R210
Splurge
Clarins Eye Contour Gel R370 – I really liked using this gel – it was cooling and soothing, and definitely made my eyes looks wide-awake and rested ! I prefer something richer at night, but this is amazing for daytime, and won’t make your makeup crease or smudge. I have really sensitive skin and wear contact lenses, and this was great to use.
CREAMS
Most eye care comes in a cream format, especially anti-ageing products aimed at the 28+ age group. This is typically when you first start to notice that the reflection in the mirror used to show someone younger ! Look out for creams that have been tested by an ophthalmologist, especially if you have sensitive eyes or wear contact lenses. The addition of SPF is controversial – many people are sensitive to these rather unstable molecules, and experience itching and burning around the eyes. If you’re keen on sunscreen, try it and see what your skin will tolerate.
Steal
Olay Total Effects 7-in-1 Anti-Ageing Eye Cream R149 – I liked the bit of shimmer in this cream – great for banishing dark circles.
Innoxa Line-Defying Eye Cream R144.95
Spend
Almay Eyewise Intense Hydration Firming and Plumping Eye Cream R255 – this was fabulous. Great texture and hydration, and a reasonable price.
Elizabeth Arden Plump Perfect Eye Cream SPF 15 R345
REN Lipovector Smoothing Eye Contour Cream R400
Ultimate Splurge
Sensai Cellular Performance Wrinkle Repair Cream R1500+. This is the best thing I’ve ever used on my face. Anywhere on my face… Amazing. Eye-wateringly expensive, but worth it. I’m off to buy a Lotto ticket. A girl can dream…
SERUMS
The new kids on the block, facial serums are products which enhance the action of other products which are used afterwards, due to their smaller molecules which are able to penetrate deeper into the skin and carry the cream further. These can be used on their own if you prefer their lighter texture, or to boost your favourite cream.
Spend
Skin Science Radiant Eye Serum R199.99 – great product. Rich enough to use on its own and very well-priced. A new fave on my bathroom shelf…
Nimue Skin Technology Eye Serum R250
And now for something completely different… For you beauty babes who like something natural and aroma therapeutic, Mioja eye cream with grapefruit and fennel is a balm which is warmed between your fingers before being applied around the eye. Gorgeous natural scent, cute apothecary-type packaging and a really accessible price tag of R59.95 make this worth trying.
Regardless of your texture preference, the application for eye products is the same – light patting movements of your ring fingers, as they exert the least pressure, in an inward direction towards your nose to drain away any puffiness. Opinions are divided as to how close to take the product to the eye – I have always taken it all the way to my lashes without any problems to my sensitive, lens-wearing eyes. Obviously, if you’re about to apply eye makeup, a lighter touch on the lids is required to avoid an oil slick and creased shadow !
What are you waiting for ? Get out there and give someone the eye !
Browse all eye cream product reviews on Beauty Bulletin.
Article By: Janine Catlin