They’ve been around for several years now, but you may be wondering why eye masks are so popular. Especially if you have a go-to eye serum and cream. No, they’re not just a trend—eye masks are here to stay. Here’s what you need to know.
Your Eyes Age First
The skin around the eyes is ultra-thin. For this reason, your eyes are one of the first places you will begin to see fine lines. Sun damages the skin surrounding your eyes faster. Combine that with repetitive movements such as squinting and laughing, and fine lines set in. As you age you may also struggle with dark circles and morning puffiness. Eye masks are designed to be both a proactive and reactive approach to these visible signs of aging.
Thick Creams Won’t Work
Thicker creams won’t penetrate the thinner skin surrounding your eyes. This includes sunscreens, which you shouldn’t get too close to your eyes anyway due to their chemical compounds. Serums, creams, and masks designed specifically to penetrate the thinner skin surrounding the eyes are required for anti-aging effects. Eye products also have more natural ingredients that are less likely to harm your eyes if they accidentally get rubbed into your eye.
Blue Light Increases The Need For Eye Treatments
It used to be that you didn’t have to start using eye treatments until your late 20s or early 30s. However, increased screen time leaves many adults exposed to blue light 10+ hours per day. Blue light can contribute to:
- The breakdown of collagen
- Premature fine lines and wrinkles
- Cell shrinkage
- Pigmentation
- Ocular damage
- And more!
In addition to anti-aging eye treatments and broad-spectrum sunscreen which also filters blue light, consider wearing blue light glasses.
How Eye Masks Can Help
There are several types of eye masks to choose from, most of which are used 1 to 3 days a week for intensive eye treatment. Use on the same day that you exfoliate your skin and apply a leave-on, wash-off, or facial sheet mask. Or apply eye masks in the morning when you are puffy or any time your eyes look tired.
Sheet Eye Masks
Methode Brigitte Kettner’s Skin Recharge Biocellulose Eye Masks are specifically designed to target wrinkles, crow’s feet, sagging, and dryness-induced lines. Use as needed or as a proactive approach to gravity and aging. These ultra-thin masks are like a second skin and will deliver a concentrated
Wash-Off Eye Masks
There are countless wash-off masks to choose from, but most aren’t designed for the eyes. MBK’s Ice For Eyes Mask delivers a refreshing cooling effect. Leave it on for 20 minutes before washing it off to visibly diminish dark circles and puffiness. It will also smooth fine lines and wrinkles around the eye. Use as needed or any time you wake with puffy, dark, or tired eyes.
In addition to eye masks, add a daily eye serum and eye cream to your AM and PM skincare routine. Also, consider investing in a jade roller or multi-purpose skincare device to personalize your skincare routine.