If you’re like many adults, the combination of the words “crow’s” and “feet” likely makes you cringe. With signs such as this, your eyes can reveal wrongs in your routine: sleep deprivation, overexposure to sun, and habits such as smoking or drinking too much alcohol or coffee. When wrinkles make an unwanted appearance, you might rush out to purchase products to stop lines in their tracks. Eye creams are one of the most common — and the least invasive — option for attempting to reverse signs of aging. The quest to quell wrinkles around the eyes feeds an entire industry dedicated to developing new and more effective moisturizing products that try to reduce the appearance of fine lines and prevent new ones from forming. Other creams also claim to treat puffiness or dark circles. Because there are so many options available, talking to specialists can be the first place to start when you’re considering eye creams. A dermatologist can prescribe a product that might give you some visible results quickly, such as a retin-A cream, which has been shown to reduce the appearance of lines in skin.

The good news is that price tags don’t always matter in the effort to reverse aging signs, and a less expensive eye cream bought at the drugstore might work just as well as something prescribed by a dermatologist. Consistent use of a product that works combined with a simple cleansing routine is really all you’ll need to get started.

If the realities of growing older are interfering with your best skin care intentions, a moisturizng eye cream might be able to help. Which ingredients should you look for?

Ingredients in Moisturizing Eye Creams

Moisturizing eye creams, as with other moisturizers, contain two types of key ingredients: humectants and emollients [source: Mayo Clinic]. Humectants help the skin absorb and retain moisture, and examples of these include glycerin and urea. Emollients, such as petrolatum and mineral oil, fill the spaces between skin cells and temporarily give the skin a smooth, plump appearance.

In addition to the moisturizer, many of these eye creams are also likely to contain many of the same anti-aging ingredients. One of the most common ingredients is retinol, a derivative of vitamin A that has been shown in some studies to help build collagen, the skin’s natural plumper. Retinol can be harsh on skin, and any anti-aging effects may be minimal or temporary compared with those from stronger prescription creams [sources: P&G Dermatology, Mayo Clinic].

Moisturizing creams often appeal to people who have dry or sensitive skin. If you fall into this category, look for peptides (protein fragments) such as copper peptides, palmitoyl oligopeptide or pal-KTTKS on the label of active ingredients. They have been shown in some studies to help boost collagen growth, and they also signify that the cream has anti-aging properties that are less likely to irritate your skin than retinol. Some of these products might also include fragrances, so if your skin is sensitive or has a tendency to be easily irritated, be sure to read the ingredients list closely.

You might also see other ingredients such as niacinamide, which is a type of vitamin B3 that may protect the skin, improve its texture and reduce the appearance of fine lines. Some studies have shown that moisturizing creams that include both pal-KTTKS and niacinamide had more of a positive effect on wrinkles than did moisturizer alone.

Ingredients specifically geared to treat the delicate eye areas may help you on your way to a more youthful appearance. What specific outcomes can you expect from using a moisturizing eye cream?

Benefits of Moisturizing Eye Creams

Many factors contribute to how gracefully skin ages. Genetics, for example, can determine whether you are naturally fortunate enough to have minimal lines or are the unfortunate bearer of excessive wrinkles around your eyes. Regardless of what internal or external factors may be affecting the skin around your eyes, moisturizing eye creams might be able to help to delay the signs of aging — or at least temporarily hide them.

As your skin ages, it tends to become more dried out because the sebaceous glands begin to produce less sebum, or oil. Using an eye cream with moisturizing ingredients may help to prevent that dryness in the eye area. Also, since dry skin can cause fine lines to appear more prominently, the emollients in the eye cream will fill the spaces between skin cells and help to reduce the appearance of wrinkles on your skin, at least for a while. [source: Bruno]. Beyond wrinkles and fine lines, bagginess and puffiness also can be combated with the right combination of ingredients in your eye moisturizer at any age.

Dry skin may play a big role in the aging process, but ultraviolet rays from sun exposure is likely your biggest skin threat, and sunscreen will help you the most. Choosing an eye cream that includes a sunscreen with an SPF of at least 15 will help protect your skin from those damaging rays.

As for risk factors, remember that the skin around the eyes is very delicate, so you should avoid using harsh or irritating ingredients in that area. Always be sure to read the ingredients list in case the cream includes any fragrance or other chemicals you may be allergic to. And even though many products may temporarily mask wrinkles, you probably shouldn’t expect very drastic results from a moisturizing eye cream, especially one of nonprescription strength.

When fine lines begin to develop, no matter what age you are, moisturizing eye creams will give you an option to plump, soften and refresh the area around your eyes and, at least temporarily, help hide those signs of aging.

Better Man in brief …

• Your main goal in winter months is to retain moisture.
• Aside from facial skin, you need to focus on things like hands and lips.
• Avoid temptations like long, hot showers, as they will dry your skin out.

“Moisturizer with an SPF of at least 15 is something you should be doing all year long. “

Cracked lips. Bleeding knuckles. Irritated arms. They’re all signs that point toward one thing: winter is well on its way. And with the change in season, men would be wise to switch up their normal skin care routine. Don’t have one? Well, the holidays are right around the corner. So, treat yourself to flake-free skin that will give your bed buddy a reason to keep close on even the coldest, most itch-prone nights. It’s the gift that keeps on giving.

Do – Stick to moisturizers with sunscreen

No real changes here. Moisturizer with an SPF of at least 15 is something you should be doing all year long. Just because the sun might disappear from November to March and its rays are considerably weaker doesn’t mean you can skip out on protecting yourself from the harmful effects of UVA and UVB. Anyone who has hit the slopes on a sunny day knows the reflective power of pure white snow. It’s brutal. So slather on extra helpings of a moisturizer that isn’t oil-free. Contrary to what you’ve been told about supposed pore-clogging, oil-based brands, the alternative leaves behind a film that prevents the skin from breathing properly. And the result leaves you at serious risk for pimples.

Don’t  – Take long, hot showers

Fighting the urge to seek refuge in a soothing shower on a cruelly cold winter’s day is a tough battle. But the hot steam causes pores to open and release much-needed moisture. The bottom line: spending any more than 10 to 15 minutes washing, shaving or whatever it is that you do in there is less than desirable. Keep your showers short and, if possible, moderate the water temperature to something below scalding.

Do – Apply hand cream frequently

Oh, the wisdom of a woman. She’s always known the benefit of regularly rubbing cream on the hands. And this couldn’t be more true than during the dry days of winter. Lack of moisture on the knuckles — naturally, where it’s needed most in order to stretch with the movements of each finger — can lead to skin breakage and bleeding. And that isn’t just unsightly. The blood-filled cracks are like a red carpet welcome for infection. Gross.

Don’t – Lick your lips

You’d think that in the grand scheme of evolution humans would have developed the ability to self-moisturize their lips. A little saliva seems like the obvious answer, but in fact, it only serves to exacerbate chapping. Invest in lip balm — either a stick or small tub — for use throughout the day. Fruity flavors in cute colors need not apply.

• Better Man in brief …
• Your main goal in winter months is to retain moisture.
• Aside from facial skin, you need to focus on things like hands and lips.
• Avoid temptations like long, hot showers, as they will dry your skin out.

“A humidifier or even a simple bowl of water next to your bed will restore some semblance of moisture to the air.”

Do – Break out the humidifier

Die-hard winter-weather dwellers know this rule well. A humidifier or even a simple bowl of water next to your bed will restore some semblance of moisture to the air. It’s the quickest cure for scratchy skin. And the best part is that it doesn’t require basting yourself in half a bottle of body cream.

Don’t – Exfoliate too often

Skin is at its most delicate in winter. And though most skin types still call for a good slough and scrub on a regular basis, it’s best to keep exfoliation to a minimum as temperatures dive downward. Two to three times a week is all anyone should need. Then, during your off days, use a basic facial cleanser product to wash away daily dirt and debris.

Do – Use moisturizer at night

Even the best moisturizers require reapplication at night. And that’s particularly necessary if you take a shower in the evening. But before you climb into bed in an oil slick of body butter, remember that it doesn’t take much moisturizer to get the job done. Rub in a light layer, let it fully absorb into the skin, and wipe away the excess with a towel. You and your sheets will never know the difference, but your skin certainly will.

Don’t – Use any soap

Not all soaps are created equal. Somewhere between super-strong deodorizing disinfectants that dry the skin and all-natural, non-scented bars that don’t leave you feeling fresh is a whole world of perfectly suitable shower gels. They’re both gentle and effective. The right one should cleanse and moisturize without an overpowering smell. And don’t be afraid to rinse and repeat until you find the right brand for your body and your wallet.

seasonal skin care

Winter-proofing your sensitive skin by layering up with these dos and don’ts will keep you soft and smooth all season long — not to mention, totally touchable.

Fine lines and wrinkles tend to occur on virtually every male and female at a certain age. Certain physical changes occur within the body that cause wrinkles to form. A majority of fine lines and wrinkles occur as a result of collagen depleting under the skin’s surface. Fortunately, those concerned with removing the physical signs of aging will get to choose from a number of treatments to rejuvenate their skin; those with even the driest skin have multiple options.

Dry Skin and Rejuvenation Treatments

Patients with dry skin who receive skin rejuvenation treatments generally notice similar results when compared to patients with normal to oily skin. Many treatments serve each patient in a similar matter with little to no variance on a procedural basis. Though, some product developers create products that match each individual’s specific skin condition in order to provide the best possible rejuvenation results.

Treatment Options

Patients with dry skin who choose to reverse the signs of physical skin aging will select one or multiple treatments. Treatment types range from the simplest creams and lotions to highly advanced laser based procedures.

Moisturizers and creams tend to fluctuate in results due to skin texture and tone. Those with dry skin will often require an extended amount of treatment in order to notice desirable results. Even some more advanced treatments, such as chemical peels, provide less desirable results to those with severely dry skin.

The most advanced skin rejuvenation procedures tend to provide optimal results to those with dry skin as well. Fractional resurfacing will provide patients with a hypoallergenic, precise rejuvenation choice.

Dermal fillers also work well on patients with dry skin. These solutions work beneath the skin’s surface so that skin texture has no effect on the procedural results.

It is fair enough to be aware of a couple of beauty products but a lack of awareness about their application or accompanying them with other essential beauty products can be a little more than an intentional blunder. Some of the beauty mistakes pointed out by Pravda are as follows:

1. Mis-match – A mismatched make-up is seen in your choice of foundation. If your foundation does not match you skin tone then you know how you are going to end-up looking for an evening party.

2. Old in not always gold – If you carry the same hairstyle in every kittie party then be sure your overall look is going to look stale and a complete cliche. Never mind a hair-do or for that matter a new hairstyle..

3. Hydration – Moisturizers primarily hydrate your skin. Therefore you must blend in some lotion with your foundation for a smooth finish.

4. Conceal – An even make-up comes with an even tone that comes by hiding scars and dark spots on skin. This job is done by a concealer or a bronzer.

5. Lips that speak life – Your lips will speak better with a lively shade. With an array of interesting shades this choice should not be difficult for you, especially that match your make-up and the occasion.

Via: eBeautyDaily