Why the eye area ages faster than the rest of the face? What changes occur with age and what the zone needs?

2025-06-20
Why the eye area ages faster than the rest of the face? What changes occur with age and what the zone needs?

The skin around the eyes ages much faster than the rest of the face – a fact confirmed by cosmetologists and dermatologists alike. What's behind this phenomenon? What processes affect the faster formation of wrinkles, dark circles and puffiness in this very area? In this article, we explain why this zone is so demanding and suggest how to effectively take care of it.

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Thin and delicate skin texture around the eyes

The skin around the eyes is definitely thinner than on other parts of the face – it is about 0.3-0.5 mm thick, meaning that it is up to four times thinner than the skin on the cheeks or forehead. This thin layer has very few sebaceous glands, which are otherwise responsible for naturally moisturizing and protecting the skin. Because of this, the area around the eye dries out quickly and is more easily damaged. In addition, the lack of a natural lipid barrier makes the skin more susceptible to irritation and moisture loss. All this causes the aging process to start faster and more visible here. The skin is also much more delicate, so it requires particularly gentle care and light cosmetics.

Movement and facial expressions as a cause of skin aging around the eyes

The eye area is in constant motion – on average we blink about 10-20 thousand times a day. This constant stretching and squeezing of the skin causes micro-damage. In addition, facial movements, such as smiling, squinting or wrinkling the eyebrows, lead to the formation of facial (mimic) wrinkles, popularly known as "crow's feet". Mechanical strains repeated many times each day damage collagen and elastin fibers – proteins that give the skin its firmness and elasticity. As a result, the skin loses elasticity and characteristic lines and furrows appear.

Photoaging of the skin in the eye area

The skin around the eyes is poorly protected by natural pigments (melanin) that elsewhere in the skin help protect it from the sun's harmful UVA and UVB rays. UV radiation causes breakdown of collagen and elastin, which accelerates the formation of fine wrinkles, loss of firmness and the formation of discoloration. Photoaging manifests itself particularly quickly in this delicate zone, so it is very important to use products with adequate sun protection, including under the eyes. Sunlight also damages skin cells at the DNA level and accelerates the aging process, so daily protection is essential to keep the skin around the eyes looking young.

Age-related anatomical and structural changes

As the years go by, numerous changes occur in the skin – the amount of collagen, elastin decreases and hyaluronic acid, which are key to maintaining skin firmness, elasticity and hydration. Skin becomes thinner, dry and flabby. In addition, the subcutaneous fatty tissue in the eye area atrophies, resulting in the formation of "shadows" and deepening of the orbit. These changes affect the drooping of the eyelids and the appearance of so-called bags under the eyes. Improper blood and lymph circulation can also cause swelling and bruising, which worsens the appearance of the skin. The muscles around the eyes weaken over time, which also contributes to the loss of skin tone and the formation of wrinkles.

Special care needs of the eye area

Due to its structure and delicacy, the skin around the eyes requires very gentle and precisely selected care. Cosmetics used in this area should have a light texture, absorb quickly and provide strong hydration. It is important that the preparations contain ingredients that promote the regeneration of the skin barrier and protect it from free radicals that accelerate aging. Since the skin around the eyes is sensitive and often prone to irritation, cosmetics should not contain aggressive substances such as strong acids or high concentrations of retinoids. The right formulas minimize the risk of redness, dryness and discomfort.

Lifting and corrective, transformative eye and eyelid serum with caffeine, peptides, hyaluronic acid, and the Beautifeye™ complex 20 20 SECONDS MAGIC EYE TREATMENT this bestselling serum provides an immediate lifting effect, reduction of dark circles and bags under the eyes, deep hydration and regeneration! Perfect as the last step in the care of delicate skin around the eyes – the transformative formula retains micro-particles of active ingredients in the deeper layers of the skin.

This iconic serum is also available in an illuminating version! 20 SECONDS MAGIC EYE TREATMENT GLAM offers not only an immediate lifting effect, reduction of dark circles and bags under the eyes, deep hydration and regeneration, but also a glow effect, thanks to the formula with the addition of pearl micropigments subtly illuminates the eye area, restoring freshness and radiance to the look.

You love rich formulas? Experience luxury care that works immediately! Repairing and firming eye cream-mask with trehalose 5%, ceramides complex 1% and maritime pine extract 0.5% SMOOTH AS SILK is an innovative cream-mask and the secret to silky smooth and moisturized skin around the eyes. It perfectly smooths, regenerates the eye area and has an anti-wrinkle effect, while the transformative formula works on every level for a wow effect.

In the same way, moreover, as eye balm with active fatty acid complex KEEP AN EYE ON IT which resembles butter in consistency. Thanks to a complex of active fatty acids, it regenerates and strengthens the hydrolipid barrier, nourishes and smooths fine lines and wrinkles, giving the skin a younger appearance.

The role of eye creams - facts and myths

Eye creams are specially created for the delicate skin of this area. Their formulas are gentler and have a composition tailored to the needs of thin, sensitive skin, allowing them to safe and effective action. These products often contain ingredients that improve microcirculation (such as caffeine), as well as substances that lighten dark circles and reduce swelling. Eye cosmetics also undergo rigorous ophthalmic tests so as not to cause burning or irritation to the eyes. The use of these products is not just a marketing stunt – it is necessary to ensure that the skin is properly cared for and protected from aging.

Eye cosmetics application technique

Technology is of paramount importance! The application of the cosmetic in the eye area requires delicacy so as not to damage the thin and sensitive skin. The preparations should be applied with the pad of the ring finger, which exerts the least pressure. The cosmetic should be gently pat, and not to spread or stretch the skin. Application is made along the orbital bone, avoiding too close contact with the lash line, which can lead to eye irritation. It is important to use the right amount of cosmetic – too much can run down into the eyes, causing discomfort. Regular, systematic use of products in the morning and evening is the key to achieving visible skin care results.

Learn the secret to a perfectly groomed look

The skin around the eyes is one of the most sensitive areas of our face – thin, delicate, lacking lipid protection, and in constant motion. It dries quickly, is easily micro-damaged, and photoaging and anatomical changes only accelerate the process.

If you want to effectively care for the delicate skin around the eyes – use cosmetics dedicated to this zone, which protect against UV radiation and free radicals. Reach for active ingredients that improve microcirculation and pay attention to proper application technique.

Remember that regular care, tailored to the needs of your skin is the foundation and an investment in a beautiful look for years to come.

Substantive editing: Katarzyna Leoniak
Certified Cosmetologist
Care Expert
konsultacje@veolibotanica.pl

Autorka wpisu - Kosmetolog Katarzyna Leoniak

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