Guide to Looking Good
1. Ward off wrinkles
Whilst wearing sunglasses can help prevent crows feet by reducing squinting, so can keeping the skin around your eyes properly hydrated. But because skin on this part of your face is up to ten times thinner than the stuff on the rest of you (and is a lot more sensitive), a regular moisturiser just won't do. So invest in a specially formulated eye cream instead. And if you want to guard against wrinkles, use Age Defense For Eyes.
Not only does it reduce the appearance of dark circles and puffiness, it actively protects against the appearance of future fine lines. Don't pile it on though – eye creams are potent products and a little goes a long way. In fact, a blob the size of a large grain of rice should do both eyes if used properly.
To apply, place a small amount to the tip of your ring finger and gently pat around the eye socket. Don't rub or you'll pull on the delicate skin and avoid going too close to the eye.
2. Deal with dark circles
Caused by the enlargement of blood vessels just beneath the skin around the eye, dark circles are one of the most obvious signs of tiredness but alcohol, dehydration and pollution can make them worse too. To minimise them, apply Eye Cream, drink plenty of water and make sure you get your beauty kip.
Alternatively, why not camouflage them with the help of M Cover? Perfect when you need an instant fix or if your panda eyes are hereditary, it's an easy-to-use concealer that's great for hiding dark circles. Apply to the corner of the eye in the same way as the eye cream, using your ring finger to gently blend in to the skin.
3. Banish eye bags
Carrying more luggage than BA? Don't worry, you can get rid of puffiness under the eyes by remembering to make eye cream a regular part of your routine (when you apply the patting motion will help drain away toxins). Since anything cold will also help constrict the blood vessels and reduce swelling try keeping yours in the fridge to maximise its effectiveness. And if you're ever without it try plonking two cold tablespoons over your eyes - it works a treat!
Tip of the month:
If you want to prevent sweat running into your eyes during exercise rub a little petroleum jelly into the area just under your eyebrows.
Did you know..?
Resting your eyes is a great rejuvenator, but if you're grabbing a crafty mid-afternoon nap make sure it lasts no longer than 20 minutes otherwise you'll find it harder to wake and your tired eyes will look even worse.
For last month's Grooming Guide click here
Q: I suffer from really dry, itchy eyes. What's the cause and how can I prevent it?
A: For starters, steer clear of man-made fibres like nylon and polyester which don't low the skin to breathe. Instead, wear loose fitting cotton clothes instead.
If you're working out opt for sportswear made with CoolMax or Dry-FIT fabrics which ‘wick' moisture away from the skin to keep it cool.
It's worth staying away from dark clothing too – black clothing absorbs every wavelength of visible light making it (and you) warm but white gear reflects light keeping you cooler for longer.
