Under-eye care: 8 things you must never apply in this sensitive area

Under-eye care: Never use fragrance under your eyes. Fragrances are a common culprit for skin irritation, especially in sensitive areas like the under-eyes. They can cause redness, itching, and allergic reactions (Image: Canva)

The delicate skin under your eyes requires special attention and care. Given its thin nature, it's prone to dryness, wrinkles, and puffiness. While many products claim to rejuvenate and protect this sensitive area, not all are beneficial. In fact, some substances can be downright harmful.

Understanding what not to apply under your eyes is crucial for maintaining healthy and youthful skin. Here’s a little guide to what you should steer clear of when it comes to under-eye care:

Heavy oils

Oils are often lauded for their moisturising properties, but not all oils are suitable for the under-eye area. Heavy oils, such as coconut oil, can clog pores and cause milia—small, white bumps that form due to trapped keratin. Additionally, these oils can migrate into the eyes, leading to irritation and discomfort. Opt for lightweight, non-comedogenic oils specifically designed for facial use if you prefer oil-based products.

Alcohol-based products

Products containing high levels of alcohol can be extremely drying, exacerbating fine lines and wrinkles around the eyes. Alcohol strips the skin of its natural oils, leading to increased sensitivity and dryness. It's essential to read ingredient labels and avoid toners, astringents, or any skincare products with a high alcohol content for under-eye application.

Fragrances

Fragrances are a common culprit for skin irritation, especially in sensitive areas like the under-eyes. They can cause redness, itching, and allergic reactions. Fragrance-free products are always the safest choice for under-eye care. Look for hypoallergenic labels to ensure the product is gentle enough for daily use.

Exfoliants

Exfoliating the delicate skin under your eyes can cause more harm than good. Physical exfoliants with gritty textures can create micro-tears in the skin, leading to irritation and inflammation. Chemical exfoliants, like those containing alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) or beta hydroxy acids (BHAs), can also be too harsh. It's best to keep exfoliation limited to the rest of your face and avoid the under-eye area entirely.

Retinoids

Retinoids are powerful anti-ageing ingredients, but they can be too potent for the under-eye area. They can cause dryness, peeling, and redness when applied too close to the eyes. If you want to use retinoids, opt for formulations specifically designed for the under-eye area, as these will be gentler and less likely to cause irritation.

Essential oils

While essential oils are popular for their natural benefits, they can be highly irritating to the under-eye area. Oils like tea tree, peppermint, and eucalyptus have potent active compounds that can cause redness, burning, and allergic reactions. Always perform a patch test if you decide to use essential oils on your face, and avoid using them near your eyes.

Expired products

Using expired skincare products is a big no-no, especially around the sensitive under-eye area. Expired products can harbour bacteria and lose their efficacy, leading to potential infections and irritation. Always check expiration dates and store your products in a cool, dry place to maintain their integrity.

Makeup removers with chemicals

Many makeup removers contain harsh chemicals that can irritate the skin around your eyes. Ingredients like sodium lauryl sulphate (SLS) and synthetic fragrances can cause stinging and dryness. Opt for gentle, oil-based makeup removers or micellar water to dissolve makeup without harsh rubbing or irritation.