Why does the skin around the eyes always exhibit the first signs of aging? Well, this skin is incredibly thin – actually the thinnest in the body. Along with that fact, we are constantly squinting and smiling to form repetitive wrinkles. On top of that, the lack of oil glands around the eyes make this skin especially susceptible to damage from our lifestyle choices. Oil glands keep our skin moist and hydrated and stem cells from the follicles help the skin to repair.
8 DIY Eye Masks Recipes To Soothe + Repair
Since the eye skin is deficient in this ability, it needs some extra TLC. So, let’s talk about how we can step up our eye game to avoid those pesky lines and crow’s feet. A few simple changes will benefit anyone who wants healthy skin around your eyes includes:
hydrate with water – increase your daily water intake. Water will keep your skin properly hydrated and allow your lymphatics under your eyes to drain impurities.
treat allergies – if you have inflammation around the eyes due to seasonal allergies, get to the root of the allergy. If you are itchy, it is especially important not to rub your eyes as this will lead to dark circles. Instead, apply a cool compress or cool chamomile tea bags to the area.
exercise regularly – increased blood flow delivers nutrients and removes waste build up and supports renewal.
get plenty of sleep – this is when it all happens. Your body needs a break to regenerate and repair.
eat whole foods – Processed foods with chemicals make you inflamed, bloated, and it shows with puffy eyes.
protect – wear sunglasses and an under-eye sunscreen. UV radiation is #1 cause of collagen breakdown and thin eye skin is especially susceptible.
use a nightly eye cream – nourish your skin from the inside AND from the outside.
All of the above tips are wonderful for overall under-eye health, but there’s even more we can do to treat this delicate area of the face! Weekly eye masks can help target different under-eye needs, from locking in moisture to de-puffing.
Puffy Eye Masks
1. Rose + Cucumber Eye Mask
Ever wonder why sliced cucumbers are common additions in photos, television and movie scenes featuring face and eye masks? Rich in ascorbic acid and phytochemicals, cucumbers help tighten and soothe skin.
But instead of placing cucumber slices over your closed eyelids, this blended mask will reach the inner and outer corners of the eyes with concentrated vitamins and minerals.