7 Reasons You Have Under-Eye Wrinkles and What to Do About It (2023)

Under-eye wrinkles are typically the first signs of aging we detect on our faces. In fact, the appearance of fine lines around our eyes can develop as soon as we enter our twenties. There are several reasons why under-eye wrinkles develop, some of which we can directly control without even realizing it.

Wrinkles are an inevitable part of growing older, but there are things we can do to push back the aging process. Understanding the possible causes of wrinkles and fine lines under your eyes will help you discover the best ways to treat them while preventing further damage.

What Causes Under-Eye Wrinkles?

Before we explore the reasons why under-eye wrinkles and fine lines appear, let's first take a look at the structure of under-eye skin.

The skin under your eyes is extremely thin. As you get older, your skin loses collagen. This is a natural occurrence. However, that effect is especially prominent on the delicate skin surrounding your eyes, resulting in the first appearance of fine lines or wrinkles you may spot on your face. Loss of elasticity in the skin surrounding the eyes can also contribute to other unwanted features like puffiness and dark circles.

So why do you have fine lines or deep wrinkles under your eyes? These are the most common reasons:

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1. Sun Exposure

Sun exposure can cause wrinkles, especially around the eyes. If you often find yourself outside during peak sunlight hours without proper protection from UVA rays, sun damage will ultimately begin to accumulate in the form of fine lines and wrinkles.

2. Facial Expressions

Repetitive facial expressions can also lead to lines and wrinkles in the eye area. Each time you squint — say, if you smile or try to see something more clearly — a groove develops underneath the skin. Since collagen production slows as we age, the skin around the eyes eventually loses the ability to spring back into place. Thus, creases begin to form.

3. Smoking and Vaping

"Smoker's lips" is a term that describes the fine lines that develop around the mouth of someone who vapes or smokes. However, this habit also contributes to wrinkles under the eyes. In addition to nicotine obstructing blood flow to the skin, the squinting you may do to keep smoke out of your eyes can also produce signs of aging. (See the previous point.)

4. Rubbing Your Eyes

If you're prone to rubbing your eyes when you're tired, make a conscious effort to stop. Remember that under-eye skin is thin and delicate. Habitually rubbing the area around your eyes can stretch the skin too much, leading to a breakdown of elastin and the formation of lines.

5. Not Sleeping on Your Back

For those of you who sleep on your side or stomach, you may be introducing wrinkles to your skin sooner than you'd like. A 2012 study in the Journal of Cosmetic and Laser Therapy found that sleeping with your face against the pillow can lead to facial imperfections such as crow's feet.

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6. Dehydrated Skin

Dehydrated skin is a temporary condition that’s due to a lack of water. Along with flakiness and a feeling of tightness, another common symptom of dehydrated skin is more pronounced lines, particularly around the eyes.

7. Genetics

Your genes can determine the onset and severity of physical aging. However, it's important to note that in many cases, skin that is commonly exposed to the outside world (such as your face) is more influenced by extrinsic and environmental factors.

The Best Ingredients for Treating Under-Eye Wrinkles

There are several ingredients that are effective in reducing fine lines and wrinkles under your eyes. Look for products that contain a combination of other actives for effective, complete treatment.

1. Retinol

A derivative of vitamin A, retinol is one of the most coveted skincare ingredients for treating wrinkles due to its ability to accelerate the turnover of dead skin cells, resulting in a smoother complexion. Retinol is not as strong as pure vitamin A (also known as Retin-A), but that makes it more suitable for all skin types, including sensitive skin.

If you incorporate retinol into your skincare routine, make sure to wear sunscreen regularly when venturing outside to avoid possible pigmentation and further sun damage, as this ingredient can make skin photosensitive.

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YORA's Defence Face Concentrate is infused with retinol plus lipochroman® to reduce the signs of visible fine lines and protect the skin from various environmental elements.

2. ARGIRELINE®

ARGIRELINE® is a short-chain peptide that functions similarly to the popular Botox® but is deemed a safer alternative, per an article in the August 2018 edition of Scientific Reports. According to Lipotec SAU, the company that created the ARGIRELINE® peptide, studies revealed that it can reduce the appearance of expression wrinkles in only one week.

YORA's Dynamic Eye Concentrate contains ARGIRELINE® for a smoother, younger-looking eye contour. It also includes EYESERYL® for added moisture and elasticity.

3. CoQ-10

Coenzyme Q-10 (CoQ-10) is a nutrient that is also common in anti-aging skincare products. It’s commonly taken as a dietary supplement but can also be found in fish, meat, and green vegetables like spinach and broccoli. Studies such as this one from 2017 by the Nutrition Institute in Slovenia show that CoQ-10 can reduce obvious signs of aging — in particular, wrinkles and microrelief lines.

A combination of CoQ-10 and vitamin C makes up YORA's Conditioning Face Balm. Together with Suberlift™, this formula can firm the top layer of skin while also brightening your complexion.

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4. Seaweed

Seaweed is rich in bioactive compounds that promote good health. This isn't limited to inside the body. These bioactive compounds can also yield positive results on the skin. A 2018 study featured in Marine Drugs explored the potential for marine algae like seaweed to provide sufficient anti-aging and antioxidant properties.

Seaweed extract is one of the key ingredients in YORA's Define Eye Contour. Combined with YORA's own hyaluronic acid blend of PRIMALHYAL 50 and PrimalHyal™ 300, this formula hydrates the delicate under-eye area and smooths away fine lines and wrinkles. It also reduces the appearance of dark circles.

How to Prevent Wrinkles and Fine Lines Under Eyes

If you don't want to increase the number of under-eye wrinkles and fine lines, take the following precautions to keep the delicate skin in that area smooth and supple.

1. Protect Yourself With Sunscreen and Other Accessories

Sunscreen is arguably the most effective anti-aging skincare product you can wear every day. Don't reserve it for hot summer days on the beach. UV rays are present year-round, even on cloudy days. Apply sunscreen gently on and around your eyelids, avoiding direct contact with your eyes. Remember to reapply SPF every two to three hours. On especially sunny days, supplement your efforts with a pair of UV protection sunglasses and a wide-brimmed hat.

2. Keep Your Skin Hydrated

Use a proper moisturizer, especially in the area around your eyes, to avoid dryness and fine lines associated with dehydrated skin. A separate eye cream can provide added hydration, but for some people, a well-formulated moisturizer with ceramides can work just as well in keeping fine lines and wrinkles away.

(Video) Under Eye Wrinkles

3. Rest Your Eyes

If you find yourself looking at a screen for long periods of time, make sure to give yourself a break for your eyes' sake. This can be as simple as taking short breaks throughout the day away from the computer, television, or smartphone. For added comfort, pamper yourself with cooling eye masks that will reduce puffiness and irritation from eye strain.

4. Adopt Good Habits

Whether your smoke or rub your eyes constantly, be mindful of the effects these habits can have on your eyes and the rest of your skin. Sometimes, small changes can lead to significant results over time.

Under-Eye Wrinkles Are Manageable

While you may not be able to completely erase fine lines and wrinkles under your eyes after a certain point, you can soften them with the right combination of active ingredients. Meanwhile, you can manage and prevent more unwanted lines from forming by being mindful of your daily habits and approaching skincare in a complete, wholistic manner. Proper treatment and preventive measures will allow you to age naturally with grace.

FAQs

How do you get rid of wrinkles under your eyes directly? ›

  1. Try facial exercises to tighten skin. Certain facial exercises have been shown anecdotally to be effective at tightening the skin under your eyes. ...
  2. Treat your allergies. ...
  3. Gently exfoliate. ...
  4. Moisturize with an eye cream. ...
  5. Avoid sun exposure — use sunscreen and a hat. ...
  6. Eat a balanced diet. ...
  7. Topical vitamin C. ...
  8. Retinoids.
Jul 21, 2018

What are the main causes of under eye wrinkles? ›

Under eye wrinkles occur when the skin around the eyes becomes thinner and loses elasticity which can be accelerated by frequent sun exposure, smoking, repeated facial movements and certain genetic traits.

Can under eye wrinkles be reversed? ›

A. You'd be surprised to know the answer, but it is indeed possible to get rid of undereye wrinkles completely. Dr. Soma Sarker says, “Yes, it is indeed possible to completely reverse fine lines and wrinkles, but it can happen only for short periods of time.

What is the biggest cause of eye wrinkles? ›

These are the most common reasons:
  1. Sun Exposure. Sun exposure can cause wrinkles, especially around the eyes. ...
  2. Facial Expressions. Repetitive facial expressions can also lead to lines and wrinkles in the eye area. ...
  3. Smoking and Vaping. ...
  4. Rubbing Your Eyes. ...
  5. Not Sleeping on Your Back. ...
  6. Dehydrated Skin. ...
  7. Genetics.
Dec 5, 2019

Does anything really help under-eye wrinkles? ›

Botox. Botox is a very effective treatment of under-eye wrinkles. It involves an injection to the area under the eyes. This slows muscle movements and makes it appear as if there are fewer wrinkles.

How to get rid of under-eye wrinkles permanently without surgery? ›

Injectables such as Botox, Xeomin, and facial fillers are at the forefront of non-surgical eye rejuvenation. When we smile, our muscles contract, creating wrinkles, or what some refer to as “laugh lines” or “crow's feet” around the eyes.

What is the normal age for under eye wrinkles? ›

Dynamic wrinkles under the eyes start to appear when you are in your late 20s or early 30s. In some cases, they have been known to appear even in the early 20s, especially if you spend a lot of time outdoors. Static lines usually start appearing when you are in your mid-30s.

What is the best permanent treatment for under eye wrinkles? ›

4 Best Treatments For Under Eye Wrinkles, from Expert...
  • Botox and Wrinkle Smoothers.
  • Daxxify.
  • Filler Injections.
  • Belotero Balance.
  • Juvederm.
  • Juvederm Volbella XC.
  • Juvederm Vollure XC.
  • Juvederm Voluma XC.
Mar 10, 2023

How can I tighten the skin under my eyes naturally? ›

Want to know how to tighten loose skin under eyes? Sometimes, it's as easy as getting enough sleep or drinking enough water! Getting 7-8 hours of sleep every night and eating a diet of water-rich foods will help keep your body hydrated, which can help skin look more plump and supple.

How can I remove wrinkles naturally at home? ›

Home remedies for wrinkles: Natural wrinkle treatments that work
  1. Aloe vera has numerous healing properties. ...
  2. Bananas contain natural oils and vitamins that can boost skin health.
  3. Vitamin C is an antioxidant that helps create collagen in the skin. ...
  4. Zinc can be found in:
Nov 13, 2018

Can dehydration cause under eye wrinkles? ›

But if your skin is chronically dehydrated, the lines and wrinkles you notice might be dehydration lines and wrinkles. Not to worry! Amping up your skin's hydration is easy and will help reduce the appearance of those pesky dehydration lines under your eyes and elsewhere on your face.

How can I make my wrinkled eyes look younger? ›

Apply an eye cream morning and night

You do not want to leave the skin around your eyes dry, ever! Applying an eye cream morning and night will not only ensure eyes are receiving the nourishment they require but will also help target signs of ageing and fatigue such as puffiness, under eye bags, lines and wrinkles.

Can stress cause eye wrinkles? ›

But what you may not know is that stress can cause wrinkles! Yes, those pesky lines and creases on your forehead and around your eyes can be the result of stress.

Does massaging under your eyes help with wrinkles? ›

Pulsing Massage

This is such a simple move and can be very effective in reducing eye wrinkles, dark circles, and puffiness. Take the index, middle, and ring fingers of both hands underneath your eyes. Keeping the fingertips in contact with your skin, gently pulse your fingers for up to a minute.

Do anti-aging creams actually work? ›

Anti-aging skin care products, such as moisturizers and serums, will never be able to stop aging. However, skin care with active ingredients, such as retinol and hyaluronic acid, may slow down the signs of aging and improve the skin's appearance.

Can Vaseline remove under eye wrinkles? ›

While, unfortunately, Vaseline won't do much to help erase deep-set wrinkles or brighten dark circles, Sakar says the product can provide some of the same hydrating effects as your go-to eye cream — especially when it's paired with a moisturizing cream.

What is the best non surgical treatment for under eyes? ›

Dermal filler is a great non-surgical injectable treatment that is able to target the depressions that run from the nose to the under-eye area known as tear troughs. These areas of depression can make your eyes look sunken and cast unflattering shadows which are known as dark circles.

What is the best non invasive under eye treatment? ›

Dermal Fillers

They are the most effective option would be to get rid of dark circles under the eyes, sometimes they are called, "tear-trough filler. They smooth out the under eye and eliminate the dark circles and unflattering shadows that cause us to look tired and older!

Is it OK to put collagen under eyes? ›

A good collagen supplement will not only boost your skin's ability to retain hydration overall, but can also help your under eye look thicker and more even in tone.

What tightens under eye bags? ›

Ways to Get Rid of Eye Bags
  • Cold compresses: Cooling the area lessens inflammation and swelling by reducing blood flow. ...
  • Hemorrhoid creams: Some people pat over-the-counter creams designed for hemorrhoid treatment under their eyes. ...
  • Caffeine: Caffeine is a vasoconstrictor, meaning it constricts blood vessels.

Why do my wrinkles look worse some days? ›

"That extra fluid helps to fill out the fine lines, making them less visible." As the day wears on, however, gravity draws the fluid down from the face causing creases to often appear more pronounced in the evening.

At what age does your face change most? ›

The biggest changes typically occur when people are in their 40s and 50s, but they can begin as early as the mid-30s and continue into old age. Even when your muscles are in top working order, they contribute to facial aging with repetitive motions that etch lines in your skin.

Can you stop wrinkles getting worse? ›

They don't need treatment, but you can choose to get treatment for wrinkles if you don't like how they look or if you want to make wrinkles less noticeable. While treatment can temporarily stop signs of wrinkles, there's no way to entirely prevent wrinkles from forming on your skin.

Does retinol help under eye wrinkles? ›

While the skin under your eyes is delicate and requires extra attention, using the correct retinol-infused eye care products under your eyes is a great way to tackle eye bags, wrinkles and dark circles. Since retinol targets the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles and crow's feet, it's often recommended for mature skin.

How do celebrities get rid of wrinkles? ›

Celebrities maintain a full correction through frequent filler and Botox "touch-ups"—restoring a full correction before it has a chance to fade. This approach has significant anti-aging benefits, because our skin is at its healthiest when maintained in its youthful positioning and contours."

Can witch hazel help under eye bags? ›

Witch hazel is great for controlling bags and puffiness under the eyes by shrinking blood vessels. Simply soak two cotton balls in witch hazel and place them on closed eyes for about 10 minutes.

Does Toothpaste work on wrinkles? ›

Did you know toothpaste can help to fade the fine lines and wrinkles on the face? Surprisingly, there are many people who are benefited with this cheap and simple home remedy. You need to apply toothpaste all over face and leave it overnight. Wash off with cold water and pat dry in morning.

What drinks get rid of wrinkles? ›

6 anti-ageing drinks that you should be sipping
  • Water. Let's start with the obvious one: water. ...
  • Grapefruit juice. Start off your mornings with a refreshing glass of pink grapefruit juice. ...
  • Green tea. ...
  • Beetroot juice. ...
  • Milk. ...
  • Cocoa.

Does vinegar remove wrinkles? ›

White vinegar is the perfect, cheap, gentle, and chemical-free alternative to remove wrinkles from your clothes. Mix a solution of 1-part vinegar to 3-parts water and fill a spray bottle with it. Then, mist your garment and let it dry out.

What does Vaseline under your eyes do? ›

Applying Vaseline® Jelly under eyes is a tried-and-tested way to lock in moisture, keeping skin in the eye area soft and elastic, and rejuvenating skin that looks dry and tired.

Can drinking water reduce eye wrinkles? ›

And neither should you. “Everyone wants a quick fix when it comes to making skin look better, but drinking more water isn't going to help get rid of wrinkles or plump up your skin unless you are extremely dehydrated,” says Elizabeth Damstetter, MD, a dermatologist at Rush University Medical Center in Chicago.

Does dehydration cause more wrinkles? ›

When your skin is dehydrated, your skin will display signs of premature aging like less elasticity and more fine lines and wrinkles. Just like the rest of our bodies, our skin is mostly made of water. So when it is missing its normal level of moisture, the skin will not perform its functions as it normally would.

How can I make my 70 year old eyes look younger? ›

Opt for a lighter eyeshadow rather than a dark, smoky shade on your eyelids and around the eyes, like Jenna Dewan Tatum. "Highlighting the corners makes eyes look brighter and fresh," says Ahnert. "Use a light color shadow in matte or shimmer to inner corner, lower lash line in outer corner, and the inner lid."

Should a 60 year old woman wear eyeliner? ›

Adding a sweep of eyeliner is an absolute must when doing eye makeup for mature skin over 60. It adds a beautiful structure to the face and can frame your eyes as the standout features they are. A pencil eyeliner is good for aging eyes because it softens the lash line and makes your fringe look fuller.

What color eyeshadow should a woman over 60 wear? ›

Best Color Eyeshadows for Older Women

We tend to gravitate towards warmer browns, greys, and natural tones as opposed to bright blues and purples as we get older because this can make us look overdone and actually make us look older than our actual years.

What does eye stress look like? ›

Sore, tired, burning or itching eyes. Watery or dry eyes. Blurred or double vision.

Why has my skin suddenly gone wrinkly? ›

Exposure to ultraviolet (UV) light.

Ultraviolet radiation, which speeds the natural aging process, is the primary cause of early wrinkling. Exposure to UV light breaks down your skin's connective tissue — collagen and elastin fibers, which lie in the deeper layer of skin (dermis).

Does overthinking cause wrinkles? ›

Stress causes changes to the proteins in your skin and reduces its elasticity. This loss of elasticity can contribute to wrinkle formation. Stress may also lead to repeated furrowing of your brow that may also contribute to the formation of wrinkles.

How can I reverse my aging eyes naturally? ›

7 Tips to Minimize the Aging Effects in the Eye Area
  1. Decrease Sun Exposure and Tanning. ...
  2. Quit Smoking. ...
  3. Consider a Humidifier. ...
  4. Take Care with Cosmetics Around the Eye Area. ...
  5. Decrease Stress Levels. ...
  6. Hydrate and Eat Clean. ...
  7. Use an Effective Eye Cream.

What is the best home remedy to tighten skin under eyes? ›

Apart from oils, there are other natural substances which can help in firming up the skin.
  1. Banana. Bananas are rich in potassium, vitamins, and natural oils. ...
  2. Cucumber. Cucumber helps retain elastin and hyaluronic acid which are necessary to maintain firm skin. ...
  3. Pineapple. ...
  4. Aloe Vera. ...
  5. Coffee grounds scrub. ...
  6. Honey.
Dec 14, 2022

What is the best natural way to tighten skin under eyes? ›

Want to know how to tighten loose skin under eyes? Sometimes, it's as easy as getting enough sleep or drinking enough water! Getting 7-8 hours of sleep every night and eating a diet of water-rich foods will help keep your body hydrated, which can help skin look more plump and supple.

Does retinol tighten skin under eyes? ›

Does retinol help reduce bags under the eyes and puffiness? Absolutely. The retinol in Olay's Night Eye Cream not only makes the skin's texture appear more even, but it also makes the skin feel firmer.

What is best filler for under eye wrinkles? ›

Restylane-L is the best under eye filler in the market while it's FDA-approved and helps to give that subtle change that will just slightly change the way you look. And the best part is, most people can't tell what changes you've made with this under eye filler filler!

How do you rejuvenate old eyes? ›

Getting adequate rest / sleep. Getting an appropriate prescription or refractive treatment to minimize or avoid squinting. Following safe eye makeup and cosmetics usage. Not smoking.

Videos

1. Eye Doctor Explains How to Get Rid of Under EYE BAGS
(Doctor Eye Health)
2. 🙂 UNDER $10 STRONGER THAN BOTOX REMOVES WRINKLES and TIGHTENS Under Eye SKIN 🙂// Eye Cream
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3. How to Tighten Skin Around Eyes - Reduce Wrinkles
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4. Don't Let Eye Wrinkles Age You: Try These Natural Remedies
(Blush with me-Parmita)
5. The Ultimate Guide to Your Health: the 18 Things Your Face Can Tell You About Deep Health Problems
(Dr. Eric Berg DC)
6. How to Remove Under Eye WRINKLES, Under Eye Bags, Puffy eyes & Dark Circles in 1 Day with ice cubes
(Beauty recipes)

References

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