There are a number of different eye cream products to target specific issues with the skin around the eyes. This can include dark circles, fine lines and wrinkles, or sagging skin, just to name a few. Certain eye cream products target more than one issue, while others are specifically designed to treat or prevent a particular problem. Most of these products are available over the counter at drugstores or department stores for more high-end products, but some require a prescription from a dermatologist if they are available in certain stronger formulations.
The most basic eye cream products are those that are simply designed to moisturize the skin around the eyes. They are often available in day or night formulations, and may be used by younger people who want to prevent problems in the future, or those who do not have any specific problem areas. These products typically include vitamins C and E, which can help to prevent signs of aging by improving the elasticity of the skin around the eyes. Most anti-aging eye cream products include these vitamins, as well as other skin-firming ingredients such as retinol or alpha lipolic acid. Retinol is actually a type of vitamin A, another type of antioxidant.
Other eye cream products work to temporarily firm and brighten the eyes, such as after a night of poor sleeping. Caffeine or even alcohol are included in some of these products to quickly lift the skin around the eyes. Though these will not have any long-lasting effects, that some of the other anti-aging products will, they do often provide a noticeable short-term benefit.
Dark circles is another common problem for which people will use eye cream products. Vitamin K and hydroquinone are often found in eye creams intended to lighten dark circles. Vitamin K helps to constrict blood vessels and hydroquinone can lighten the skin.
Some of these products can be irritating to the skin, and the delicate skin around the eyes is even more sensitive than other areas, so it is important to keep track of any changes that occur after using the products. Some are available in hypoallergenic formulations. In addition, some people find that if they don't have any particular issues around the eyes, simply using a gentle facial moisturizer works just as well as an expensive eye cream. If the problems are particularly severe, discussing other treatment options for prescription strength eye cream products with a dermatologist can be a good idea.
