Eye lotion, which is also often referred to as "eye cream," is a kind of beauty product that is specifically intended for the delicate skin around the eyes. This kind of lotions is intended to be used under the eyes in the area just above the cheeks, on the eyelids, under the brows, and in the small areas on the sides of the nose. The lotion may also be used on the area on the outside edges of the eyes next to the temples.
One of the reasons that people use eye lotion instead of just face lotion is that the skin around the eyes is different from the skin on the rest of the face. It is more delicate and it is often thinner. Furthermore, the area around the eyes is prone to displaying signs of sun damage and aging. It is common for most people to get their first fine lines and wrinkles around their eyes. Eye lotion is intended to combat these signs of aging by keeping the area around the eyes hydrated and protected.
Eye lotion that includes SPF is beneficial for people who are trying to reduce the effects of sun damage or freckling to the skin around the eyes. Not all brands of eye lotion are formulated with a sun protection factor, but there are quite a few that are. An SPF of at least 15 is desirable for this purpose.
Sometimes eye lotion is broken down into formulas for the day and others for the night. Those formulated for the day are meant to sink into the skin completely and not interfere with makeup. Those for night are often thicker and a bit oilier but provide more moisture.
Some eye lotion doubles as a cosmetic. Many women experience the development of dark circles under their eyes as they age. This can be the result of age as well as the result of inadequate rest and exercise. In order to cover up these dark circles, it is common for women and some men to wear a concealing cosmetic on these areas to cover the dark circles and make the area under the eyes look as though it is the same color or close in color to the skin on the rest of the face. Some eye lotion is formulated with concealer so that it functions both as an emollient for the eye area and as a cosmetic to help cover up dark circles.