When to use eye patches in a skincare routine

When to use eye patches in a skincare routine

When to use eye patches in a skincare routine

Eye patches are usually used in skincare because the area around the eyes is mostly subjected to dark circles, dryness, puffiness, wrinkles, laxity, and so much more. It has been considered as the most sensitive part of the eye. Special care and treatment are required for this eye area as it also lacks moisturizer.

What is an Eye Patch?

An eye patch is included in makeup products as it shields the eyes against the lack of moisture and other problems. It is like a small crescent patch that can easily fit underneath the eyes. 

These patches are basically formulated with various moisturizing acids with a slippery gel. These cotton sheets are also used during the makeup procedure to block the chemicals.

Why is it Used?

It is widely used around the globe to provide protection to the eyes. As with the lack of moisture, the eye may exposed to many serious problems. It offers hydration and nourishment promoting a fresh and youthful appearance. It also helps in soothing the tired and irritated eyes making them ideal for relaxation and rejuvenation. These eye patches are infused with the ingredients like hyaluronic acid, vitamins, and antioxidants that will improve eye health. 

What are the benefits offered by Eye Patches?

Eye Patches offer various benefits as they act as a shield for your eyes against all the problems. Being small in size, it brings a lot of goodness. It mostly contains glycerine and antioxidants that will help in reducing the puffiness and the wrinkles under the eye.

Hydration and Moisturization

Eye patches are known for providing nourishment to your eyes. Its ingredients deeply hydrate and delicate the skin around your eyes. This helps to reduce dryness, fine lines, and wrinkles and improves skin elasticity.

Reduction for Puffiness

It helps in limiting the factors causing the dark circles. Most common ingredients such as caffeine, peptides, and antioxidants in eye patches help to improve circulation, reduce fluid retention, and diminish the appearance of puffiness and dark circles under the eyes. It has also been proven medically that it helps in constraining the factors that cause these eye problems. 

Anti-Aging Affects

Eye patches also termed cotton patches include collagen, retinol, or peptides that can help stimulate collagen production, smooth out fine lines and wrinkles, and improve the overall texture and firmness of the skin around the eyes. It also helps in reducing all other common factors that can cause the anti-aging effects. Moreover, it is also known as the most easy and effective method to address these issues. 

Soothing and Cooling

Many eye patches have a cooling effect that helps to soothe and refresh tired or irritated eyes. This can reduce eye strain, alleviate puffiness, and provide a relaxing sensation. Aloe vera has cooling and moisturizing properties that can complement the effects of eye patches. Whereas, medically it has been proven that applying aloe vera gel after eye patches could heal more problems and provide a soothing effect. 

Brightening and Even Skin Tone

Some eye patches might include some ingredients that can cause a brightening effect such as vitamin C or niacinamide, which help to lighten dark spots and pigmentation, resulting in a more even skin tone around the eyes. They can also help in healing the dark circles as they provide an over age look. 

Preparation for Makeup Application

Eye patches are also used before applying any makeup product. It basically prepares skin as a canvas before putting on anything. It creates a smooth and hydrated under-eye skin helping makeup to go on more evenly and stay in place longer. Moreover, using eye patches before makeup can help depuff the area, making your eyes look more awake and refreshed. It is helpful in brightening the under-eye area, reducing the need for heavy concealer. With the help of it, makeup goes on more smoothly and blends very well. It is a refreshing experience for your skin to get prepared well before putting on any makeup. Eye patches may be worn to protect the eyes from dust, debris, or chemicals.

Reduced Sensitivity and Irritation

It is also helpful in a medical setting. Eye patches can protect the eyes from external irritants, promote healing after surgeries or injuries, and provide relief from conditions like light sensitivity or corneal abrasions. It can be helpful in preventing your under-eye area with bad aspects.

How to Use?

Using eye patches is a straightforward procedure as it requires a few simple steps to make it work.

  • Start with preparing your skin. Remove the makeup or any moisturizer applied to your skin. Clean your under-eye area with the help of any gentle cleanser.

  • Carefully peel it from the packaging. It is made up of a curved shape that is extended to the eye bone that fully covers the under-eye area.   

  • Place one patch under each eye, ensuring they adhere smoothly to the skin. Smooth out any air bubbles to ensure good contact with the skin. Make sure the patches are comfortable and not too close to the lower lash line to avoid irritation.

  • After the specified time, gently peel off the patches starting from the outer edges and moving inward. Avoid pulling on the delicate skin around the eyes.

  • Massage any remaining serum or essence into the skin using your fingertips. This helps to maximize the absorption of the ingredients and ensures they continue to benefit the skin even after removing the patches.

  • Follow up with your regular skincare routine. You can apply an eye cream to further hydrate and nourish the skin around the eyes, or proceed with applying makeup if desired.

  • You can use these eye patches depending on the condition of your skin. Some people preferred it to apply daily. Whereas, some others put on them once or twice a week or maybe in some specific self-care sessions.

Following are some additional tips for storing eye patches:

  • Store them in a cool place, preventing them from drying out.

  • If you have sensitive skin, perform a patch test before applying the patches to ensure they are suitable for your skin type.

  • Avoid leaving eye patches on for longer than recommended to prevent potential irritation.

Concerns for applying Eye Patches

Eye patches may not be suitable or advisable in certain conditions. It's essential to consider certain factors before applying eye patches

Open Wounds or Injuries

It is important to consider some skin conditions before applying anything. If you have any cuts, scratches, or open wounds near the eye area, avoid applying eye patches. The adhesive or ingredients in the patches could irritate the wound or delay healing. 

Skin Sensitivity or Allergies

If you have known allergies to any of the ingredients in the eye patches, such as fragrances or certain botanical extracts, it's best to avoid using them to prevent potential allergic reactions or irritation.

Eye Infections or Irritations

If you are currently experiencing an eye infection, such as conjunctivitis (pink eye), or any other eye irritation or inflammation, consult with a healthcare professional before using eye patches. Applying patches over infected or irritated skin can worsen the condition or spread infection.

Recent Eye Surgery

 If you have undergone recent eye surgery, follow the advice of your healthcare provider regarding skincare products and treatments around the eyes. They may recommend avoiding certain ingredients or products during the healing process.

Contact Lens Wearers

Some eye patches may contain ingredients or adhesives that can interact with contact lenses. It's advisable to remove contact lenses before applying eye patches to prevent discomfort or complications.

Children and Infants

Eye patches designed for adults may not be suitable for children or infants, especially due to their sensitive skin. Consider using products specifically formulated for pediatric use and consult with a pediatrician if necessary.

Chronic Skin Conditions

If you have chronic skin conditions such as eczema or dermatitis around the eyes, consult with a dermatologist before using eye patches. Certain ingredients or adhesives may worsen these conditions.

Eye patches offer targeted care for the sensitive and often neglected skin around the eyes, addressing specific concerns. They can be a beneficial addition to both skincare regimens and medical treatments aimed at improving eye health and appearance.

Aug 22, 2024