These Eye Creams Are Like A Tall Glass Of Water For Dry, Flaky Skin

Pretty much everyone catches a dose of dry, flaky skin come wintertime — not exactly news. But when it comes to dry, flaky skin around the eyes? Well, that can manifest year round. (And with eyes at center stage with mask-wearing practices firmly in place, taking care of the skin around them has renewed significance in 2020.)

Even those with oily complexions aren’t spared: Since the skin around the eyes doesn't have much in the way of oil glands, sensitivity, redness, and extreme dryness can occur, no matter what your skin type. The solution? Keep delicate skin around the eye area hydrated AF.

But here’s the thing: Nursing this ultra-thin, compromised skin back to health isn’t just about slapping on any heavy moisturizer. That’s because some are made with active ingredients or essential oils that can irritate skin and further exacerbate the problem. Debra Jaliman, MD, a New York-based dermatologist and author of Skin Rules, points to two popular actives that can bolster skin under normal conditions — but prove disastrous for particularly parched skin around the eyes: “Retinol can definitely worsen peeling and can even cause redness around the eyes,” she says. “Copper peptides can be irritating as well.”

The best way to nurture dry skin around the eyes? Proceed gently and wield a calming, but ultra-hydrating eye product. With Dr. Jaliman’s guidance, ahead, we’re just steps away from entering the flake-free zone — for good.