It's a common observation - as we get older, many people have the impression that their 'eyes have shrunk'. But is it true or just an optical illusion?
Dr. Amalia Anghel, primary dermatologist at Skinmed Clinic, explains what is really going on around the eyes and how to keep your eyes bright, youthful and expressive.
What happens to the eyes as we get older?
"Eyes do not shrink. Eyeball size remains constant throughout life. However, what changes is the structure and tone of the skin around the eyes, which undergoes visible changes as collagen decreases, elasticity is lost and tissues migrate," explains Dr. Amalia Anghel.
In practice, eyelids become heavier, eyebrows tend to droop, and bags or dark circles under the eyes accentuate the feeling of 'tired' or 'tired-looking' eyes.
What can you do to keep your eyes open and your eyes "as big"?
Dr. Amalia Anghel gives us 6 essential strategies from a dermatological perspective:
Protect your eye area from the sun - every day!
"The skin around the eyes is the thinnest skin on the whole body and therefore the most vulnerable. Without sun protection, UV rays accelerate photo-aging, leading to wrinkles, sagging skin and pigmentation," warns the doctor.
Recommendation: use a daily eye contour cream with SPF 30-50, or apply a light mineral SPF all over the periocular area.
Choose creams with active ingredients that support elasticity
Dr. Amalia Anghel: "Formulas with retinol, peptides, acid Hyaluronic acid and antioxidants (vitamin C, niacinamide) are essential for regeneration, smoothing fine wrinkles and maintaining firmness around the eyes."
Use in small amounts in the evening to avoid irritation.
Don't ignore hygiene and lymphatic drainage
"Bags under the eyes or puffy eyes emphasize the impression of tiredness and narrowing of the eyes. The cause can be fluid accumulation, lack of sleep or even bad habits like sleeping on your stomach," explains Dr. Amalia Anghel.
Simple solutions:
- Sleep on your back with your head slightly elevated.
- Apply cold compresses or a facial roller in the morning.
- Avoid excess salt and alcohol.
Minimally invasive procedures for young eyes
"There are patients who, despite taking good care of their skin, notice that their eyes look increasingly sad or dark. In these cases, customized aesthetic procedures can provide dramatic, natural-looking results."
Options recommended by Dr. Amalia Anghel:
- Botulinum toxin (botox) - to lift the eyebrows and relax the upper eyelid.
- Non-surgical fractional CO₂ laser blepharoplasty - to reduce excess skin.
- Hyaluronic acid filler in the tear trough - to correct shadows and under-eye hollows.
"All of these options can be integrated into a personalized anti-aging plan tailored to the patient's age, facial anatomy and goals." adds the doctor.
Facial massage and eye gymnastics
Simple exercises can support lymphatic drainage and tone the orbicular muscles:
- Open your eyes wide for 5 seconds, then close them tightly. Repeat 10 times.
- Look alternately up, down, left, right, without moving your head.
Anti-aging nutrition matters
"A bright complexion and healthy-looking eyes also come from within. A diet rich in collagen, vitamin C, vitamin A, vitamin A, lutein and zinc helps maintain firm, healthy eyes," says Dr. Amalia Anghel, Primary Dermatologist - Skinmed Clinic
Eyes don't 'shrink' with age, but they can look that way if we don't look after the skin, muscles and structures around them. With a careful eye care routine, sunscreen and customized cosmetic options, your eyes can stay open, bright and youthful for a long time.
Source: csid.ro | businesscenter.ro | advertising4u.ro | e-fem.ro
