Eye Creams Might Be More Effective Than You Think Thanks To This Key Skincare Fact

These days it can seem like there are way too many skincare steps to keep up with. From special serums to peels and oils, it can feel a little overwhelming. Because of this, sometimes we feel a little confused over which steps are vital. But what do eye creams actually do and do you really need one? Let's take a deep dive into the world of eye creams...

What do eye creams actually do?

Eye creams are essentially moisturisers specifically designed with the sensitive eye area in mind. Like moisturisers you use on your face, eye creams promise to use active ingredients such as antioxidants to help to hydrate and reduce the appearance of puffiness and dark circles. I find you can boost their cooling and nourishing capabilities by keeping your cream in the fridge and using a mini metal roller ball to apply it with. Experts are keen to point out that eye creams don't totally transform the appearance of skin, but they definitely have their daily benefits.

Do you need an eye cream?

In short, yes. The overwhelming reason to invest in a specific cream for the eyes is because the skin around there needs special attention. I spoke to dermatologist and medical director of European Dermatology London Dr Stefanie Williams to find out more.

She tells me, "Because the skin around the eyes is so thin, this area has a much higher risk of adverse reactions to skincare, even though the rest of the facial skin might be quite robust and ‘normal’."

"So for the delicate eye areas it’s particularly important to use an eye cream, which is hypoallergenic and gentle, if you tend to have trouble with skin reactions."

How should you apply eye cream?

Application is the most important part of using an eye cream. As Doctor Gross wrote in the New York Observer, the skin around your eyes is some of thinnest on your face, making it incredibly delicate and vulnerable to heavy handed application. I find using your ring finger helps give a lighter touch, and instead of rubbing your eye cream in, gently tap all around the eye area (not getting too close to the actual eyes themselves). As revealed on beauty podcast Fat Mascara, legendary beauty journalist Jean Godfrey June is a huge advocate of the 'pat, don't rub' technique. If it's good enough for JGJ.

What are the best eye creams?

There are so many eye creams out there, but I've picked out my favourites I have tried over the years: