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Skin around the eyes

The skin around the eyes, also known as the periorbital region, requires specialized skincare. The appearance of this area can change rapidly to reflect the general state of our well-being. For example, a lack of sleep results in periorbital dark circles, a condition characterized by the darkening of the skin around the eyes.

Anatomy of the periorbital region

Directly under our skin lays the subcutaneous fatty tissue. The skin of the periorbital region is not only particularly thin, but there is also minimal fatty tissue underneath. As a result, blood and lymphatic vessels are more pronounced and visible. If the oxygen saturation is relatively low, blood takes on a bluer hue and the dark circles become more prominent.

In addition, dehydration reduces the skin tension, leading to the formation of small wrinkles. Lastly, the angle at which light hits the skin changes, resulting in a darker appearance of the periorbital area. Thus, we see that there are various reasons for the color changes that take place in the area around the eyes (1).

Skincare for dry skin around the eyes

In addition to dark circles, the skin around the eyes can also become dry. Most commonly, this occurs in the context of atopic dermatitis (neurodermatitis) as atopic eczema. Generally speaking, the skin around the eyes should receive specialized care when performing a daily skincare ritual.

For this purpose, there are special eye creams that work against the formation of dark circles and swelling. A special ingredient in these creams is purslane (Portulaca oleracea), a medicinal plant with wide-ranging effects.

In one study, researchers were able to demonstrate that a 28-day skincare regimen with a cream containing purslane, among other ingredients, led to a statistically significant improvement in skin moisturization, as well as a reduction in redness and dryness (2).

Which product should be used for the periorbital region?

There are various ingredients from various manufacturers to choose from. The needs of the skin around the eyes markedly differ from those of the rest of the face. Therefore, a special eye cream should be used that replenishes the skin’s oils and is free of allergenic substances. Preparations containing anti-inflammatory ingredients such as purslane soothe this particularly sensitive area.

Skincare works best when combined with adequate water intake and a healthy diet. This is crucial to achieve a healthy and radiant appearance of the periorbital region.

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Bibliography

1: Vrcek I1, Ozgur O2, Nakra T1. Infraorbital Dark Circles: A Review of the Pathogenesis, Evaluation and Treatment. J Cutan Aesthet Surg.2016 Apr-Jun;

2: Wang Y1, Viennet C1, Jeudy A2, Fanian F2, He L3, Humbert P1,2. Assessment of the efficacy of a new complex antisensitive skincream. J Cosmet Dermatol.2018 Dec;17