A good eye cream is something that everyone should use on a daily basis. Why? The skin under the eyes is ten times thinner than the rest of the face, this makes it very delicate and fragile skin.
Most facial products have powerful formulas that are not suitable for the delicate eye area, as they can make the skin thin, and even irritate the eyes (causing you to squint, which results in more lines and wrinkles).
However, finding the best eye contour is not an easy task. There are too many options. How do you know if one product is better than another? First, ignore all the marketing, advertising, and slogans. Instead, look at what is really important in a cream: its ingredients, whether you are looking for an eye contour for 30 years, 40 years, 50 years or more . This is what I’m going to do with the most popular eye contours.
So that you don’t get lost, I’ll explain how I have broken down the article. I will analyze the eye contours of the most popular brands based on the INCI, not like the analysis of the best eye contours of the occup, which is embarrassing , the first two are within the article, but so that the rest does not extend too much of products I will summarize them briefly, but I will analyze them separately, so that you can see the complete analysis if you want.
Something important, I leave you a graph that indicates the 10 largest manufacturers of cosmetics with active hormonal substances, it means that they can cause: tumors in hormone-dependent organs, damage to the male reproductive system, damage to the female reproductive system, alterations in the development of the neurological system, metabolic diseases, disorders of the neuroimmune system.
In this article you can read it in depth: free of hormonal pollutants
And after all the analysis, I answer the main questions about eye contours, so that you can make an informed choice. We started!
Index
Nezeni Cosmetics Intensive Antiage Eye Contour. The best Eye Contour on the market – Low in preservatives (2 years expiration closed)
Both for its ingredients, as for its effectiveness and price, the Nezeni Botox effect eye contour is my star eye contour cream that I cannot stop using. I have already tried the brand’s anti-wrinkle serum and cream, and since I liked them so much, I decided to also use their eye contour, which has been a total success.
Hypoallergenic, non-comedogenic and not tested on animals, the Nezeni eye contour is presented in a 15 ml airless bottle, perfect for dispensing the right amount of product, thus avoiding contamination derived from inserting the finger to catch the cream.
This powerful formula takes care of all problems related to the eye area. Not only does it reduce the fine lines of expression around it thanks to its star ingredient, Cobiolift ; It also reduces swelling and increases circulation to the area.
Cobiolift research has shown that this natural polysaccharide can penetrate further into the skin, reducing existing wrinkles by up to 47%. The result is a more rested and rejuvenated look, with firmer and more hydrated skin.
The best of all? If you want to use your anti-aging treatment pack (serum, cream and eye contour) + SPF50 + face sunscreen , you are sure that you will not have the problems of the combined effect of ingredients such as preservatives, ceramides or silicones among the 4 products.
Yes, this is something that most people are not aware of. Each formula that we use includes a quantity of preservatives, silicones, ceramides and alcohols in a harmless proportion so as not to produce damages, but each product is evaluated individually, this means that there is no control of the accumulation of various products.
In any beauty protocol, a cleanser, a tonic, a serum, a moisturizing cream, an eye contour and a sunscreen are used, thus causing the combined effect of highly recommended ingredients.
As I have mentioned, the company makes sure that when using your treatment pack + sunscreen, there is no cocktail effect, one of the things that I love about this brand.
But to see clearly how this cream works, we are going to analyze its INCI of some of the best rated contours also for women of 40 years.
- Glycerin : Tested in Clarins Men’s Anti-Wrinkle Cream for Men .
- Chenopodium Quinoa Seed Extract : Analyzed in Nezeni Cosmetics’ anti-wrinkle facial serum .
- Pentylene Glycol : Analyzed in Nezeni Cosmetics anti-wrinkle cream .
- Caprylic / Capric Triglycerides : Tested in Clarins Men’s Anti-Wrinkle Cream for Men .
- Hydrolyzed Collagen : Hydrolyzed collagen is a mixture of small peptides obtained from the hydrolysis of collagen. Collagen is found naturally in the deep layers of the dermis, holding the skin together, giving it firmness and elasticity. But the collagen molecule is quite large, so it cannot properly penetrate the dermis, which is where it is needed. Therefore, hydrolyzing it reduces its size and thus can go deep where it is most useful. The result is an improvement in the appearance of dry or damaged skin by reducing flaking and restoring flexibility. Reducing fine lines and wrinkles is another major benefit of increasing collagen production.
- Arginine : Tested in Shiseido Men’s Anti-Wrinkle Cream for Men as Arginine HCl.
- Sodium Hyaluronate : Analyzed in Nezeni Cosmetics anti-wrinkle cream .
- Allantoin : Analyzed in Mercadona’s Sisbela eye contour .
- Malus Domestica Fruit Cell Culture Extract : Tested in Menaji’s Anti-Wrinkle Cream for Men .
- Biosaccharide Gum-1 : Analyzed in Decleor’s Harmonie Calm eye contour .
- Lecithin : Analyzed in Fiori di Cipria’s anti-wrinkle cream for men .
- Phospholipids : Analyzed in Apivita’s anti-wrinkle cream for men .
- Sodium Stearoyl Glutamate : Analyzed in the Eagle Look eye contour from Natura Siberica .
- Trisodium Ethylenediamine Disuccinate : Tested in Endocare’s Cellage Anti-Wrinkle Cream .
- Carbomer : Analyzed in Nezeni Cosmetics anti-wrinkle cream .
- Sodium Acrylates Copolymer : Tested in L’Oreal Men Expert’s Vita Lift 5 anti-wrinkle cream as Acrylates Copolymer.
- Phenoxyethanol : Tested in Clarins Men’s Anti-Wrinkle Cream for Men .
- Imidazolidinyl Urea : Analyzed in the anti-wrinkle cream Vita Lift 5 from L’Oreal Men Expert .
- 1,2-Hexanediol : Analyzed in Mercadona’s Sisbela eye contour .
- Caprylyl Glycol : Analyzed in Nezeni Cosmetics anti-wrinkle cream .
- Xanthan Gum : Analyzed in L’Oreal Men Expert’s Vita Lift 5 anti-wrinkle cream .
- Benzyl Alcohol : Tested in Nuxellence de Nuxe eye contour .
- Ethylhexylglycerin : Analyzed in Nezeni Cosmetics anti-wrinkle cream .
- Tocopherol : Tested in Clarins Men’s Anti-Wrinkle Cream for Men .
- Benzoic Acid : Analyzed in Mercadona’s Sisbela eye contour .
- Perfume.
After analyzing all its ingredients, you can see what an eye contour looks like with effective and high-quality ingredients that acts both in reducing wrinkles around the eyes, as well as in reducing bags and dark circles.
That is why it is my chosen eye contour, which you can buy on the Nezeni website from here .
Are you looking for a global action to eliminate wrinkles and other signs of aging? Now you can complement the benefits of the eye contour with the antioxidant action of the Nezeni Hyaluronic Acid supplement.
It is a food supplement based on Hyaluronic Acid, Resveratrol, Astaxanthin, and Coenzyme Q10. The latter are concentrated antioxidants that prevent oxidation, and attenuate the damaging effect of free radicals, which are what form wrinkles.
While the eye contour works externally, the capsules do so from the inside, enhancing the anti-aging effects of the cosmetic, and achieving better results.
You can find it on the Nezeni website from here .
Advanced Night Repair Eye (Synchronized Complex II) by Estée Lauder
I am going to put Estee Lauder’s famous eye contour to the test that promises to rejuvenate our eyes, reducing the appearance of all the key visible signs of aging around the eyes: fine lines, wrinkles, bags, dark circles, dryness and uneven tone.
This is the update to the classic contour, and as usual in Estee Lauder products, it is loaded with beneficial ingredients for your skin.
Bifida Ferment Lysate is the active ingredient with the highest concentration in the formula, as it is the star ingredient that (according to the company) increases DNA repair.
It has a very nice silky texture, and is fragrance free. The problem is that Estee Lauder continues to pack their products in a jar, which means that all the antioxidants and other fragile ingredients will be less potent with each use, because once you open it and the air enters, the oxygen sensitive ingredients will start to deteriorate.
Of course, there is also the hygiene issue that results from sticking your fingers into a jar, further degrading the contents. What a pity!
- Methyl Trimethicone : Silica-derived silicone used in cosmetics and beauty products as an anti-foaming agent and skin conditioning agent. The fluid properties of silicone give a soft feeling on the skin, it is an emollient and a water binding agent that remains even when the skin gets wet. Silicones remain on the surface of the skin.
- Bifida Ferment Lysate : A specific type of yeast obtained by fermenting Bifida. Little research has shown that yeast ferment filtering (a different compound from Bifida Ferment Lysate) compensates for oxidative damage to the skin in the presence of UV light, but this research also showed that many other antioxidants have a similar effect.
- Dimethicone : Tested in Shiseido Men’s Wrinkle Cream .
- Dimethicone / Vinyl Dimethicone Crosspolymer : They are flexible silicon polymers (silicones) that act as non-aqueous viscosity increasing agents. They also function as a dispersing agent and an emulsion stabilizer.
- Propanediol : Propanediol exists in two common forms: 1,2-propanediol (propylene glycol) and 1,3-propanediol. 1,2-Propanediol (propylene glycol) is a skin conditioning agent, humectant, fragrance ingredient, solvent, and is used to reduce the viscosity of a formulation. 1,3-Propanediol is used primarily as a solvent and as a viscosity reducing agent in cosmetic development. Both forms are considered to be irritating to the skin and eyes.
- Sucrose : Tested in Clinique For Men wrinkle cream .
- Petrolatum : Tested in Clinique For Men’s wrinkle cream .
- Polysorbate 40 : It is a solubilizer, surfactant and emulsifier that helps other ingredients dissolve in a solvent in which they would not normally dissolve. It also helps to form emulsions by reducing the surface tension of the substances to be emulsified.
- Trehalose : Also known as Mycose, it is a sugar used as a humectant and flavoring agent. When applied topically, it allows the skin to retain moisture that it would otherwise lose, drying out the skin and potentially increasing the signs of aging. It is considered useful for its hydrating and binding properties of water, as well as for its antioxidant power.
- Algae Extract : In cosmetics, algae act as thickening agents, water binding agents, and antioxidants. Most notable, perhaps, is its ability to instantly hydrate and condition skin. By using products that contain this ingredient, you will notice a more supple, hydrated and soft-touch complexion. Seaweed is also an antioxidant, which means that it protects the skin from free radicals that cause premature aging. Finally, they are high in essential amino acids, protein, and a variety of vitamins, including vitamins A, B, C, and E. As a plant ingredient, all types of algae are prone to decomposition with routine exposure to air and light. . Therefore, avoid products with algae that are packaged in jars or non-opaque containers.
- Morus Bombycis (Mulberry) Root Extract : Mulberry root is rich in arbutin, which have an antioxidant and skin whitening effect. The whitening effect would mainly be the result of an inhibition of the activity of tyrosinase, an enzyme that occurs especially in the synthesis of melanin.
- Scutellaria Baicalensis Root Extract : Scutellaria Baicalensis root extract has a powerful antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effect. Its ability to inhibit melanin synthesis and protect against sun damage make this ingredient a gem. It is a powerful antioxidant compound rich in flavonoids and other bioactive elements, including terpenes and volatile oils. Its three main antioxidants are the flavonoids baicalein, oroxylin A, and wogonin. Scutellaria Baicalensis extract is also a very powerful tyrosinase inhibitor with great potential to decrease melanin production.
- Lactobacillus Ferment : It is the product obtained from the fermentation of Lactobacillus, a lactic acid bacteria that is found naturally in the gastrointestinal tract. Lactobacillus is considered a probiotic (a living microorganism that can benefit health when consumed), and acts as a broad spectrum natural antimicrobial in aqueous products and in oil-in-water emulsions, acidifying the environment and producing antimicrobial peptides called bacteriocins.
- Triticum Vulgare (Wheat) Germ Extract : Extract of the germ of the wheat plant. In cosmetics, this ingredient works as a skin softening agent. As it is derived from wheat, it is a source of gluten.
- Acrylamide / Sodium Acryloyldimethyltaurate Copolymer : It is a viscosity control agent and a stabilizer.
- Betula Alba (Birch) Extract : Commonly known as birch extract, it is known for its healing and skin purifying properties, it also works as an astringent. Its anti-inflammatory and skin-soothing abilities are used to treat eczema, psoriasis, and warts. Because this ingredient can act as an astringent, there is a potential risk of skin irritation, especially on dry, sensitive skin. Also, because birch extract resembles the chemical makeup of aspirin, people with aspirin allergies should avoid this ingredient, as should people with heart and kidney problems.
- Hydrolyzed Algin : It is a derivative of algae that is used as a moisturizing and conditioning agent, which can be combined with zinc sulfate to regulate oil levels, inhibit acne bacteria and reduce irritation.
- Poria Cocos Sclerotium Extract : This top quality active ingredient is extracted from the Asian mushroom “Sclerotium Poriae Cocos”, of great importance in Traditional Chinese Medicine. As a cosmetic ingredient, it can regulate skin hydration and calm the epidermal nervous system. It acts as an astringent, invigorating and calming, balancing the neuropeptides responsible for inflammation. It also offers protection against the harmful environment and is suitable for all skin types.
- Jojoba Alcohol : Jojoba alcohol is an alcoholic fraction obtained by saponifying Jojoba oil that works as a skin conditioner, viscosity-increasing agent, and emollient.
- Ethylhexylglycerin : Analyzed in Nezeni Cosmetics anti-wrinkle cream .
- Glycine Soja (Soybean) Extract: Soy glycine extract contains significant amounts of all essential amino acids, and is a good source of protein. It is derived from the amino acids of soy and is rich in minerals and vitamins, especially vitamin E. It is commonly used in the manufacture of bath oil and soap, for conditioning and firming the skin, because it is a natural emollient and moisturizer. Soy contains isoflavones and phytoestrogens that some consider useful for cancer prevention, and others consider them carcinogenic. Although it is a generally safe ingredient, there are some studies showing that it acts as an oxidant (stimulating nitrate synthesis), as well as a blocker of new blood vessel formation (anti-angiogenic effects). Many people experience allergies to soy,
- Isopropyl Jojobate : A combination of two different jojoba esters designed to improve moisture retention, therefore it is an emollient and conditioning ingredient.
- Jojoba Esters : A complex blend of jojoba oil esters and hydrogenated jojoba oil. The result is an ingredient with a wax-like texture that works as an excellent emollient and occlusive agent for the skin, especially when used with glycerin.
- Isohexadecane : Analyzed in the Fiori di Cipria anti-wrinkle cream for men .
- Yeast Extract \ Faex \ Extrait De Levure : Yeasts are a group of fungi that ferment sugars; a source of beta-glucan, which is a good antioxidant. The types of yeast used in cosmetic products are not harmful and, in fact, are likely to help create a healthier surface skin due to their smoothing and conditioning action.
- Hydrogenated Lecithin : Lecithin is a natural emulsifying agent and one of the most important components of cells. It is a natural mixture of the diglycerides of stearic, palmitic and oleic acids, linked to the choline ester of phosphoric acid and plays an important role in cell metabolism, especially with regard to membrane penetration. It is used as a surfactant in cosmetics. The use of lecithin in cosmetics was limited due to its oxidation and instability due to heat, however, hydrogenated lecithin (lecithin with the addition of hydrogen) has all the good qualities of natural lecithin, but is much more stable.
- Hordeum Vulgare (Barley) Extract / Barley Extract : Analizado en la crema antiarrugas de Clinique For Men.
- Peg / Ppg-18/18 Dimethicone : A synthetic chemical consisting of dimethicone, a silicon-based polymer, and a polyethylene glycol (PEG) -polypropylene glycol (PPG) polymer. Its function is as a surfactant agent and an emulsifying agent, changing the surface properties of a solid, preventing the particles from coming together and coming out of solution.
- Cholesterol : Works as a skin conditioner, thickening agent, stabilizer, and water binder. Because the skin’s lipid barrier is made up of cholesterol, this ingredient helps maintain proper functioning in the epidermis, maintaining moisture levels and regulating cell activity. It works to strengthen the external structure of the skin and protect it from dehydration. It also prevents the water and oil parts of an emulsion from separating and controls the viscosity of non-aqueous solutions.
- Anthemis Nobilis (Chamomile): Known primarily for its anti-inflammatory and skin-soothing properties, and is used as a conditioning and rejuvenating agent for skin cells in cosmetic products. As a conditioner, it improves the appearance of dehydrated or damaged skin by reducing flaking and restoring skin flexibility. The flowers of the plant are rich in flavonoids (apigenin, quercetin, patuletin and luteolin), which contribute to its anti-inflammatory, anti-redness and anti-itch effects, which help improve the speed of healing of damaged skin. In addition to all these properties, it also gives off a subtle floral scent. Although generally not irritating or sensitizing, there are many adverse reactions in individuals who suffer from allergies to other plants in the daisy and sunflower family.
- Tocopheryl Acetate : Analyzed in ClarinsMen’s wrinkle cream as Tocopherol Acetate.
- Sodium RNA : Sodium salt of ribonucleic acid with very little information about it. It has skin conditioning properties to help repair and renew the skin.
- Caffeine : Analyzed in ClarinsMen’s anti-wrinkle cream .
- Polysorbate 80 : Also known as Tween 80, Polyoxyethylene (20) sorbitan monooleate, and POE (20) sorbitan monooleate. It is used primarily as a surfactant and emulsifier due to its ability to help other ingredients dissolve in a solvent in which they would not normally be able to dissolve, specifically in the case of oil in water. It can also help reduce the surface tension of substances that need to be emulsified.
- Caprylyl Glycol : Analyzed in the eye contour of Nezeni Cosmetics .
- Phytosphingosine : Phytosphingosine is a naturally occurring chemical found in the body and is part of the lipid family. These fats inhibit microorganisms and have bactericidal properties. This not only prevents the formation of acne, but also acts as an anti-inflammatory in concentrations as low as 1%. It is used as a conditioner for the skin and hair, as well as to treat acne.
- Squalane : Analyzed in ClarinsMen’s anti-wrinkle cream.
- Potassium Sulfate : Also called Potassium Sulphate, potassium sulfate is used both in fertilizers (due to its ability to supply both potassium and sulfur), as well as in cosmetics and skin care formulas, as a skin-increasing agent. viscosity or thickener. Despite potassium sulfate’s toxic reputation, it is considered a safe ingredient.
- Sodium Hyaluronate : Analyzed in the Nezeni Cosmetics eye contour.
- Acrylates / C10-30 Alkyl Acrylate Crosspolymer : Tested in Shiseido Men’s Anti-Wrinkle Cream.
- Tripeptide-32 : It is a synthetic peptide composed of 3 amino acids: proline, serine and threonine. Tripeptide-32 has water binding properties. This means that it keeps the skin hydrated by preventing water loss. According to his patent, this peptide can activate and deactivate genes responsible for repairing the skin at different times of the day and night. However, there is no independent research to confirm that it does so when applied to the skin.
- Butylene Glycol : Analyzed in ClarinsMen’s anti-wrinkle cream.
- Tromethamine : It is a fragrance ingredient, buffering agent, and masking ingredient used in cosmetics and personal care products.
- Disodium Edta : Analyzed in ClarinsMen’s anti-wrinkle cream.
- Bht : Analyzed in Shiseido Men’s Anti-Wrinkle Cream.
- Phenoxyethanol : Analyzed in ClarinsMen’s anti-wrinkle cream.
- Iron Oxides (Ci 77491, Ci 77492, Ci 77499) : Iron oxides are used to color cosmetics. These ingredients are fine powders with a unique scent. There are 16 iron oxides in total, and they are all compounds of iron and oxygen. They are non-toxic and resistant to moisture.
After all this, I can say that it is a pretty good cream, with a lot of good ingredients like Poria Cocos Sclerotium Extract or Sodium Hyaluronate, but it also has others that are not so recommended such as silicones, petroleum derivatives or alcohols, and some very unclear, such as Sodium RNA or Tripeptide-32.
The good thing is that it is fragrance-free, but it does have some allergenic ingredients, such as wheat germ extract and barley extract, two sources of gluten.
Sensibio Bioderma Eye Contour
Although Bioderma is a fairly well-known French brand, this product is quite weak. In the list of ingredients you can see quite a few alcohols, emollients, skin conditioners, and other products that do not add anything to our skin.
It is true that it is a formula without perfume, without parabens and hypoallergenic, which is very good, but its active principles are reduced to 3: Sodium Hyaluronate, Glycyrrhetinic Acid and Rhamnose.
On the other hand, it’s a fairly affordable eye contour, so you can’t afford to introduce more either.
You can enter the complete technical analysis in the following article: Bioderma Sensibio Eye Contour: Complete Analysis and Alternative.
Nuxellence Nuxe Eye Contour Zone
Frankly, after going through all the ingredients in the Nuxellence contour, I have been completely disappointed. Up to ingredient 19 (out of 32) I can’t find any active ingredient that works to reduce wrinkles around the contour, or the dark tone of the ear, which are the most worrying problems in an area like this.
The perfecting effect and the luminosity that the brand proclaims are derived from silicones, emollients and micas, which provide a smoother and brighter visual effect. But they don’t really solve these problems from within, just visually.
Although it has some natural ingredients, they could have put them higher in the INCI, and used less chemicals and synthetics. At least it has no parabens, and the fragrance they use is specific for the delicate area around the eyes.
You can enter the complete technical analysis in the following article: Nuxellence Nuxe Eye Contour Zone: Complete and Alternative Analysis.
Harmonie Calm Gel Soothing Eye Cream Decléor Rest Effect
Decléor has managed to formulate a contour free of parabens, mineral oils, artificial colors, alcohol and fragrance; although it still has the common problems of including many preservatives, emulsifiers and other ingredients that do not provide us with anything; in addition to having a few ingredients that can cause irritation and the undesirable PEG.
If it weren’t for these ingredients that I just mentioned, and that it would be much better if it had higher proportions of the active ingredients, we would be facing a highly recommended cream, and with a fairly affordable price.
You can enter the complete technical analysis in the following article: Harmonie Calm Gel Soothing Eye Cream Decléor Rest Effect: Analysis and Alternative.
Génifique Yeux Light Pearl by Lancôme
Although it may seem like a high-end product, which is supposed to have quality ingredients, it happens a bit like Estee Lauder’s Advanced Night; it is more the fame of the brand than the quality of the ingredients.
That is why you have to read and understand each ingredient on the list well, to know what you are wearing. Once you know it, it is up to you to put it on or not.
Actually, only 5 ingredients are saved from the formula, of the more than 25 that it has; and the two most important to reduce wrinkles are not in the top positions.
In addition, there are silicones, a mineral oil, alcohols, and some are irritating or potentially toxic ingredients.
You can enter the complete analysis in the following article: Génifique Yeux Light Pearl by Lancome, Complete Analysis and Alternative.
Kiehl’s Midnight Recovery Eye
A treatment designed to be used at night, with many natural ingredients, without parabens, mineral oils and without chemical fragrances; ingredients that can irritate the skin.
A large amount of antioxidants, emollients, soothing and anti-inflammatory that prevent sun damage, reduce puffiness and fine lines. Great if it didn’t include alcohols and two potentially harmful preservatives.
You can enter the full analysis in the following article: Kiehl’s Midnight Recovery Eye, Analysis and Alternative.
L’Oreal Revitalift Laser X3 Eye Care
The INCI of this outline is an example of what no cosmetic should have, it does not contain parabens, but it is full of silicones, petroleum derivatives, preservatives, colorants, irritating, sensitizing and harmful ingredients.
Only three ingredients of the 23 it has are saved, since we cannot trust its star ingredient (Pro-Xylane).
This multinational is supposed to be a prestigious and recognized brand, but the ingredients it uses do not live up to that name. So read the ingredients first, and then decide whether to use it or not.
You can enter the complete analysis in the following article: L’Oreal Revitalift Laser X3 Eye Care, Analysis and Alternative.
Benefiance WrinkleResist24 Intensive Eye Contour Cream by Shiseido
It looks like a high-end, quality cosmetic, but when analyzing its ingredients we found parabens, alcohols, and a good amount of irritating and sensitizing fragrances.
And although there are some natural ingredients that have very good properties, they are too low on the list to have a significant effect on the skin.
As the combined or cumulative effect of undesirable or toxic ingredients must always be borne in mind, I prefer to remove these products from my daily routine.
You can enter the complete analysis in the following article: Benefiance WrinkleResist24 Intensive Eye Contour Cream by Shiseido, Analysis and Alternative.
Multi-Intensive Concentrate Eye Zone by Clarins
Clarins proposes an intensive contour for all skin types that deeply hydrates, increases firmness and luminosity in the area of the dark circles.
It is a fairly good cream, with many active ingredients, although the proportions are not what you would like. But it should not be forgotten that it also has some highly recommended ingredients, and in my case I am very demanding, I try to find a product that borders on perfection.
Not bad at all, but I’m not going to settle for that.
You can enter the full analysis in the following article: Multi-Intensive Concentré Zone Regard de Clarins, Analysis and Alternative.
Lancaster Skin Therapy Perfecting Texturizing Eye Contour
The Lancaster contour ingredient list is very extensive, and although it has quite a few active ingredients with good anti-aging properties, I am concerned about several things.
One is the silicones that are in the upper part, another is the alcohols (very little beneficial for the skin), also the excessive amount of preservatives, thickeners and stabilizers that it contains; and finally, the combination of Sodium Benzoate and vitamin C that I explain in the analysis.
You can enter the full analysis in the following article: Lancaster Skin Therapy Perfecting Texturizing Eye Contour, Analysis and Alternative.
Clinique Smart Multi-Corrector Eye Contour
With the Clinique contour, the same thing happens to us as with the previous one, many ingredients, good active ingredients but in very low proportions, silicones, and also this has a high price.
It has 3 allergenic ingredients, and one that can cause irritation. It is a pity that hyaluronic acid and argireline are in such low proportions, because their effect is not the same. At the very least, it’s loaded with antioxidants and paraben-free.
You can enter the complete analysis in the following article: Clinique Smart Multi-Corrector Eye Contour, Analysis and Alternative.
Avene Soothing Eye Contour Care
Soothing care, not anti-wrinkle, for sensitive skin. It is a formula rich in emollients, which will soften and smooth the area of the dark circles, but nothing more.
As I comment in the summary of the analysis, its two most interesting active ingredients are at the bottom of the list, too low to be able to do their job correctly.
Although with a silicone and a PEG, it has no parabens, no perfume, and only a preservative, something that is appreciated.
You can enter the complete analysis in the following article: Avene Eye Contour Soothing Care: Analysis and Alternative.
LIFTACTIV Vichy Eyes
A concealer that promises a global action on all eye contour problems to smooth wrinkles, tighten the eyelids and reduce puffiness and dark circles. But they can fulfill this claim, I have only found 2 ingredients in a suitable ratio, the others are too low on the list.
In addition, when reading its ingredients I have found parabens, silicones, PEG, ingredients that can become toxic, and we must not forget the combined effect, and how dangerous it can be for our long-term health.
You can enter the complete analysis in the following article: LIFTACTIV Vichy Eyes, Analysis and Alternative .
Sisbela eye contour from Mercadona
It is impossible not to talk about one of the most popular cosmetic brands in our country, Sisbela, the Mercadona brand. Without a doubt, we are facing one of the cheapest contours out there. For € 4.50 you get a 20 ml contour (5 ml more than the usual 15 ml format).
And its active ingredients are clearly displayed on the packaging: Artemia extract, Ginkgo Biloba, vitamins A and E, Centella Asiatica and Caffeine. What they don’t count is that it also has silicones, allergens, perfume, PEG, and irritating, controversial, and potentially toxic ingredients.
The safest thing is that when you apply it you will not notice anything; the danger comes when you use it in combination with other products that also have these compounds over time. Therefore, I prefer not to use it.
You can enter the complete analysis in the following article: Sisbela eye contour from Mercadona, Analysis and Alternative.
Eyes Ultimate Eye Contour Cream by Olay
The active principles that the Olay contour may have are clouded by the three parabens that you can see in the INCI, ingredients that should be avoided in all cosmetics. It does not matter in what proportion they are or if a committee of experts has ruled that they are safe to use.
I have the maxim of never using products with parabens due to the issue of the combined effect, so of course, this contour would be completely discarded from my facial routine. And if you appreciate your health, it should be out of yours too
You can enter the complete analysis in the following article: Olay Eyes Ultimate Eye Contour Cream, Analysis and Alternative.
Sesderma Reti Age Eye Contour
Although extensive, its INCI is full of active principles that all creams would dream of having, from retinol (vitamin A), to growth factors, as well as peptides, vitamins A, C and E, hyaluronic acid or antioxidants. The only thing we know that many ingredients in an INCI means that they have very low proportions of them.
Two caveats in this outline: hydrochloric acid, an irritating ingredient; and the possibility that benzene, a carcinogen, is formed from the union of Sodium Benzoate and vitamin C.
Although it looks like a very powerful cocktail, I no longer risk my health, especially when there are other better options.
You can enter the complete analysis in the following article: Sesderma Eye Contour Reti Age, Analysis and Alternative.
Premier Cru Caudalie Eye Contour
The antioxidant properties of grape combine seamlessly with hyaluronic acid, AHA, and other antioxidant and anti-inflammatory ingredients to create a powerful formula that hydrates, reduces wrinkles, and blurs bags and dark circles.
It is true that some of these active ingredients could appear higher on the list, but in general it is a good option. In addition, it is free of parabens, silicones and irritating or toxic ingredients; and its ingredients are of plant origin, something that vegans will appreciate.
You can enter the full analysis in the following article: Premier Cru Eye Contour by Caudalie, Analysis and Alternative.
Hydraphase Intense Eyes by La Roche Posay
A contour with few ingredients, but that falls short of active ingredients. Hyaluronic acid is the great protagonist, but it is not even in the first positions, a shame.
The support of caffeine and soy protein is not enough to achieve a comprehensive treatment that attacks all the signs of aging around the eyes.
At least you will get a hydrated contour, and you will not be applying undesirable ingredients.
You can enter the complete analysis in the following article: Hydraphase Intense Eyes of La Roche Posay, Analysis and Alternatives.
How to apply the eye contour?
Now that you have your eye contour cream, the next step is to know how to apply it correctly to enhance its effects and not aggravate an existing condition or start a new one such as irritation, redness, swelling, etc.
Before applying, clean the eye area and your hands .
Take a small amount of cream (the size of a grain of rice should be enough). If your cream is in a jar, use a small plastic spatula or cotton swab as an applicator.
If the cream is very thick, rub it between your fingers first, this will heat and lighten the formula, making it easier to glide across the skin.
Work one zone at a time . Using your ring finger (the weakest finger), apply a small amount of cream slightly above the orbital bone, the bone under the eyes that runs from the nose to the cheeks. If you touch the bone, you will notice that there is a gap between the bone and the eye. This is the area where your eye cream will migrate.
Swipe your finger to the sides quickly and gently to spread the cream on the skin. Never rub or stretch the skin, do it gently so as not to damage the skin and increase circulation, thus creating a micro-drainage , ideal for reducing dark circles and puffiness .
The application begins in the inner corner of the eye, near the nose, and continues outwards, towards the temples or the brow bone; performing a C . Go back to where you started and press gently with your finger, holding it for 1-2 seconds.
Repeat the movement to make sure the cream has penetrated sufficiently. Be careful, do not apply the cream on the lids unless it is designed for this purpose.
Important : do not get too close to the eye. Eye cream migrates , so too much cream can cause eye irritation, swelling, or blurred vision.
Apply the contour twice a day, morning and evening (unless otherwise specified).
Some eye creams have anti-wrinkle ingredients and can also be used around the lips . The skin in this area is also thinner than the rest of the face, and the specific characteristics of the cream can also be good for the contour of your lips.
INCI (Ingredient List): How to read it correctly
Every beauty product has, by law, an ingredient list generally printed in the smallest font possible.
Cosmetic ingredients are labeled using their INCI name , following the International Nomenclature of Cosmetic Ingredients and, in general, the chemical name or, in the case of plants, the scientific name is used , together with the part of the plant used and if it is an extract, oil, powder or whatever. Therefore, when we read it, everything sounds like Chinese to us.
Is it written in some kind of order? Yes, the ingredients are listed in descending order of weight, meaning the ingredients present in the highest amounts appear first on the list . But this rule ceases to apply when the ingredient is present at levels less than 1% of the total. The exceptions are colorants, which can appear at the end of the ingredient list.
Knowing this, when you see that a brand advertises a product with a certain ingredient, all you have to do is go to the list and see where that ingredient is.
If it is in the top 5-6 ingredients , the active ingredient will work ; but if it is half way down the list, the ratio is too small for the desired effect to appear.
If you don’t speak chemical lingo , I recommend that you look up the name on the Internet by typing “—- in skin care”. You will see a list of several websites with similar information, click on one of these that I recommend (ewg.org or cosmeticsinfo.org), and then translate the result (you can use an online translator), so you will know what it is about.
When to start using the eye contour?
The golden rule of skincare: the sooner the better. Many people start using eye cream in their 30s, when they begin to notice a subtle crease at the outer corner of their eyes; but the ideal is to start before it appears, from the age of 20. This is because the best results come from prevention.
Also, if you have extremely dry skin, prominent dark circles, bags or other specific eye contour problems, you should take care of that area regardless of your age.
Start with a hydrating cream with SPF and antioxidant ingredients as soon as you start your facial care routine. This preventive care is the most difficult to comply with, because no results are observed. However, if you are consistent, it is the most effective.
And after 30, introduce contours with anti-wrinkle actives that firm the skin by stimulating the internal production of collagen, a factor that naturally decreases with age.
Is a specific cream for the eye contour necessary if you already use a moisturizer?
Many people wonder why an eye cream is necessary if, after all, they are already applying a normal moisturizer.
You can apply a normal moisturizer, but creams for the contour of the eyes are specially formulated to take care of the skin in that area, which is very different from the rest of the face.
The skin around the eyes is ten times thinner than the face. This means that it is much more delicate, wrinkles and dries much faster , and is much more vulnerable to environmental aggressions (strong wind and UV rays).
In addition, this skin does not enjoy the natural moisture of sebum (fat) as much. This fat is one of the best anti-aging weapons that the skin has, as it keeps it healthy and smooth. It is up to you to provide that moisture that it lacks.
Eye contour creams are specially formulated to provide anti-aging benefits, while respecting the delicate nature of the eye area. They are designed to offer all the hydration and protection you need, while minimizing the chances of any irritation.
The best ingredients for the eye contour
Part of the process of finding the best eye contour is looking for the ingredients you should have. This will give you an idea of what a particular ingredient can do for your skin, and you can decide if it is useful or you can do without it.
Hyaluronic acid
The only essential moisturizing ingredient in a cream is hyaluronic acid and its salt, sodium hyaluronate. These molecules are naturally present in our body (mainly in the skin), but as we get older, less is produced.
As a result, the skin around the eyes begins to look less full, wrinkles begin to appear, and dark circles are more noticeable.
Hyaluronic acid is most effective when it can penetrate the deeper layers of the skin, but in topical creams, it is often difficult to get past the outer layer of the skin because it is made up of quite large molecules.
This is why the most effective eye cream will use sodium hyaluronate , a derivative that is more easily absorbed into the skin because it has smaller molecules.
Retinol
It helps the skin to eliminate old cells and produce new ones , since the regeneration of the skin slows down after the age of 20. Retinol promotes the production of collagen (a basic component for a rejuvenated and healthy skin).
However, it can cause side effects such as scaling and redness at high enough doses; for this reason they are usually used in low concentrations. And the lower the concentration, the longer it takes to act.
Peptides
They are small fragments of collagen and proteins that “trick” the skin into thinking that its collagen is broken and that it needs to produce new collagen to replace it. Over time, it can help thicken the skin and reduce the appearance of wrinkles.
Like retinol, peptides promote collagen production, but have less risk of irritating the delicate skin around the eyes.
Some of the best known peptides are palmitoyl pentapeptide-3 and acetyl hexapeptide, also known as Matrixyl and Argireline. Argireline is known to produce the same effect as botox, so in addition to preventing, it reduces existing wrinkles; and it is present in Nezeni Cosmetics anti-wrinkle cream.
Vitamin C and Vitamin E
In addition to vitamin A (in the form of topical retinol), vitamins C and E are also powerful anti-aging ingredients. While vitamin C helps in the production of collagen and in the elasticity of the skin, vitamin E softens and protects the skin against any further damage.
Arnica
Helps reduce puffiness and bags under the eyes, as well as the dark color of dark circles .
Vitamin K
It is known for its function of promoting proper blood circulation , improving the health of blood vessels, and preventing the calcification of certain minerals so that the blood can flow properly. This helps prevent puffiness and dark circles under your eyes .
Solar protection
Aside from aging, the main culprit for skin damage is the sun , which is why the face and hands tend to look older than the rest of the body. Sunscreen is your greatest ally against this enemy. It is the perfect ingredient to prevent sun damage .
Unfortunately, the vast majority of contours do not contain SPF, so it is very important to apply it additionally after the cream. Look for one that protects against UVB and UVA rays, which damage elastin and collagen in the skin.
Kathie Sand always saw the world of beauty as the terrain on which to build her professional career, a goal that was clear to her when she was only 15 years old. Her great concern to expand knowledge led her to settle in Paris where she studied hand in hand with the best beauty professionals and with the most advanced techniques for skin care.