by Our eyes often attract all the attention and we also try to enhance their beauty by applying cosmetic products. While you shower your eyes with lots of love, don’t forget the skin under your eyes. This part is more sensitive and thinner than other parts of the face because it contains less fat underneath. When you get tired or start to age, signs start to appear before your eyes. But some may have thinner skin under their eyes than others. Many causes lead to thin skin under the eyes.
Causes of thin skin under the eyes
Thin skin under the eyes can be caused by many factors. Dr Pooja Aggarwal, consultant dermatology at Artemis Hospital, Gurugram, says intrinsic factors include genetics and the natural aging process. Some people owe their genes to thinner skin. Additionally, the production of collagen and elastin (the proteins that provide structural support to the skin) decreases with age, leading to thinner skin. Extrinsic factors encompass external factors that contribute to skin thinning. These may include:
• Prolonged exposure to the sun can damage collagen and elastin fibers, causing the skin to thin over time.
• Smoking reduces blood flow to the skin and impairs collagen production, accelerating skin thinning.
• Insufficient hydration can cause skin to lose its plump appearance, making it appear thinner.
• A diet low in essential nutrients like vitamins C and E can affect skin health and thickness.
• Chronic allergies can cause inflammation and fluid retention, making the skin under the eyes thinner.
• Lack of sleep, excessive alcohol consumption and stress can contribute to thinning skin.
Symptoms of thin skin under the eyes
You don’t see a lot of fat under your eyes, so this area may appear less elastic. Here are some of the common symptoms of skin under the eyes that you should be aware of:
1. Dark circles
Thin skin allows underlying blood vessels to show through, leading to the appearance of dark circles under the eyes, explains the expert.
2. Visible blood vessels
Due to the transparency of thin skin, small blood vessels (capillaries) may become visible, giving a bluish or reddish appearance.
3. Fine lines and wrinkles
Thin skin is more prone to developing fine lines and wrinkles, making you look older than your age.
Select the topics that interest you and let us personalize your feed.
PERSONALIZE NOW
4. Pockets
Thin skin can contribute to the appearance of bags under the eyes, as the delicate tissues may not provide adequate support to prevent fluid buildup.
5. Hollow
In some cases, thin skin can accentuate sunken areas under the eyes, making them look sunken.
Ways to treat thin skin under the eyes
To prevent and treat thin skin under the eyes, it is essential to protect your skin. Here’s what you can do:
1. Sun protection
Whether you’re indoors or outdoors, apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher every day. Sunglasses can also help protect the delicate under-eye area from harmful UV rays.
2. Hydration
Keep your skin well hydrated by drinking plenty of water and using a gentle, hydrating eye cream with ingredients like hyaluronic acid.
3. Topical Retinoids
Over-the-counter or prescription retinoid creams can stimulate collagen production and help thicken skin over time. But use them as directed by a dermatologist.
4. Vitamin C serum
Vitamin C can boost collagen synthesis and also brighten your skin, says Dr. Aggarwal, so apply a vitamin C serum to the under-eye area.
5. Gentle skin care
Be gentle while cleansing and moisturizing the under-eye area. Avoid harsh rubbing or pulling, as this can damage delicate skin.
6. Eye masks
Cold compresses or eye masks can help reduce puffiness and improve blood circulation, temporarily reducing the appearance of thin skin.
7. Topical Peptides
Look for eye creams containing peptides like palmitoyl pentapeptide-4, which can boost collagen production and improve skin thickness, the expert suggests.
You also need to get enough sleep, manage stress, and maintain a healthy lifestyle by eating a balanced diet and exercising regularly.
