Understanding How the Eye Area Ages and Treatments Options

The delicate skin around the eyes is one of the first areas to show signs of aging. From fine lines and wrinkles to dark circles and puffiness, the eye area undergoes significant changes over time due to both intrinsic and extrinsic factors. Understanding the anatomy of this region and how various treatments work can help in maintaining a youthful appearance.

The Anatomy of the Eye Area

The skin around the eyes is thinner and more fragile compared to other parts of the face. This makes it more susceptible to dehydration, collagen loss, and environmental damage which can lead to premature ageing. Key structures that contribute to the aging process include:

Skin: The epidermis and dermis in this area are particularly thin, with fewer oil glands, making the skin prone to dryness and fine lines.

Muscles: The orbicularis oculi muscle surrounds the eyes and is responsible for blinking and facial expressions. Repeated muscle contractions contribute to the formation of crow’s feet on animation (dynamic wrinkles) and collagen loss (static wrinkles).

Fat Pads: The fat surrounding the eyes provides structural support, cushioning and volume. Over time, these fat pads shrink or shift, leading to hollowing, under-eye bags, and a tired appearance. Herniated fad pads in the area may also lead to puffiness that may require surgical intervention to correct.

Bone: As we age, the bone structure around our eyes undergoes gradual changes, contributing to a more hollowed or sunken appearance. The orbital bone loses density, leading to enlargement of the eye socket which can cause the eyes to appear more deep-set.

How the Eye Area Ages

Aging in the eye area occurs due to a combination of all the above factors. Including collagen breakdown, reduced skin elasticity, repetitive muscle movements, and the loss or displacement of fat pads and loss of bone density. This is why a multipronged approach is required to achieve results in this area. Unfortunately, there is not a magic wand that will correct all your concerns in one go! (Yes, even after surgical interventions!).

Fine lines and wrinkles form as a result of repetitive muscle movements, collagen breakdowns and weakened elasticity. Dark circles may be due to thinning skin, pigmentation, or vascular changes. Puffiness and under-eye bags can be caused by weakened muscles and shifting fat pads. This is also why a thorough consultation and facial analysis is so important, as overly weakening the muscles in this area can do more harm than good! Lastly, all the above are linked to genetic intrinsic factors.

Fortunately, there are several advanced treatments that can help restore a youthful appearance around the eyes:

Muscle Relaxers

This treatment help relax the orbicularis oculi muscle, reducing the appearance of dynamic wrinkles like crow’s feet. By temporarily preventing excessive muscle contractions, these treatments smooth out existing wrinkles and may prevent new ones from forming.

Rejuran for Skin Rejuvenation

Rejuran is a skin-healing treatment that contains polynucleotides (PN) derived from salmon DNA. When injected into the under-eye area, it improves skin elasticity, hydration, and collagen production. This results in smoother, firmer, and more resilient skin, making it an excellent option for reducing fine lines and improving delicate, crepey skin.

SkinPen with Growth Factors

Microneedling with SkinPen, especially when combined with growth factors, stimulates collagen and elastin production. This treatment improves skin texture, reduces fine lines, and enhances overall skin quality. Growth factors further support tissue repair and skin regeneration, making the under-eye area appear refreshed and more youthful. Due to the design of the needling device, we can safely treat close to the lash line too!

Daily Eye Cream

While in-clinic treatments provide significant rejuvenation, daily skincare is essential to maintain results and prevent premature aging. As skincare is performed every day, this is an incredibly important step in maintaining clinical results.

Some of our favourite at home eye products include:

Cosmedix Elite Eye Dr

Biopelle Tensage Stem Cell Eye Cream

Biopelle Tensage Growth Factor Ampoules

Surgery

If after a thorough consultation we believe surgical intervention is the most optimal solution to a concern, we will always refer our patients to a specialist surgeon. But always remember, if the skin is adequately prepped prior to surgery- the better the recovery and result!

The eye area is one of the most delicate and expressive parts of the face, making it particularly prone to aging. Understanding anatomy and the factors that contribute to wrinkles, puffiness, and dark circles allows for targeted treatments to maintain a youthful appearance. Combining professional treatments like muscle relaxants, Rejuran, and SkinPen with a high-quality eye cream ensures long-term skin health and vibrancy. Investing in both clinical procedures and a diligent skincare routine can help keep your eyes looking refreshed and youthful for years to come.

Let us know your favourite eye treatments in the comments below!

Jessie x