Vitamin A derivatives including retinol (as in Green Cream) or prescription only retinoids are important skin care ingredients. In addition to their usefulness in treating and managing acne, these ingredients are also widely used for their anti aging skin care benefits. Is it safe to use retinol and other retinoids around your eyes?
First off, skin around the eyes, as with the skin on the rest of your face, should be treated with kindness. This means no harsh cleansers, moisturizers as needed and sun protection 365 days of the year. If you are introducing a new ingredient to your skin care regimen, it should always be tested first. This is especially important if you have sensitive skin and the ingredient is one (like retinol) that can cause irritation. Once you’ve determined that your skin can tolerate a product, then it’s fine to proceed.
Retinoids should be introduced slowly since they do have the ability to irritate skin. Side effects can be minimized by introducing the product gradually – leaving it on for as little as 15 minutes 3 times a week to begin with – before working up to daily use. As well, retinol is best tolerated by starting at a lower dose before graduating to more concentrated formulations. Side effects tend to be a temporary inconvenience and if you stick out the flaking-and-redness stage, then you’ll be rewarded with skin that looks fresher and healthier.
So yes, retinol and other retinoids can be used around the eyes. Exercise caution and you should be fine.
Although not marketed as eye creams, Neostrata Anti-Wrinkle Night Complex (0.15% retinol) or Green Cream Level 3 are good options for the eye area.
Retinoids is at its best when applied at night. It losses its effectiveness when exposed to heat or sun.