Are you missing out by not moisturizing your eyelids? Find out with this basic guide to the oft-forgotten body part
Dark circles. Puffiness. Dryness. Fine lines and wrinkles. There’s a lot of talk about how to treat the under-eye area—but far less about eyelids. And, while you may not have even thought about it, eyelids can dry out. You might be wondering: should you moisturize your eyelids? We’re here to help with answers on what causes dry eyelids and how to treat them.
WHO needs to moisturize their eyelids?
When it comes to the delicate skin around the eye area, dryness can be common. If you have irritated, flaky skin around the eyes, you’re a candidate. This dry skin means there’s a loss of hydration and moisture, which can then lead to inflammation. You may also notice itching or swelling.
WHAT do I use to moisturize them?
Your eye creams can often do double duty on both your under-eye area and eyelids. Avoid irritating ingredients such as dyes and drying alcohol, especially if you have sensitive skin. Hypoallergenic products can be good bets, as well as products formulated specifically for 360 application all around the eyes. When you’re applying eye cream that’s safe for the eyelids, be sure to gently spread it and apply it all around.
WHEN should I moisturize them?
Every day! Don’t wait until they feel dry and flaky to start your new eyelid moisturizing routine. Applying an eye cream or moisturizing skincare product is always beneficial to protecting the skin barrier. And it’s never too early to start.
WHERE does moisturizing your eyelids fit into your skincare routine?
This one’s pretty easy: When you’re applying your eye cream. Tap appropriate formulas slowly onto your lids using your ring finger, being careful not to tug or pull the skin, since that can add to the formation of fine lines and wrinkles on the delicate eye area.
WHY are your eyelids dry?
The most common cause of dry, flaky eyelids is often changing weather. Cold, dry temperatures during the winter will strip the skin barrier of necessary oils, including from your eyelids. Other causes of dry eyelids can include eye makeup (especially the pigments in eyeshadow), hairspray, chemicals or rubbing your eyes repeatedly. And, in some cases, dry eyelids can be a form of eczema, like atopic dermatitis or contact dermatitis.
