There are many reasons why some people have dark circles under their eyes. Most of these can be grouped into two categories: genetics and dilation. But did you know that using an SPF regularly on the skin around the eyes not only protects this delicate area but also helps to prevent the overproduction of melanin which may make hereditary dark circles appear darker? Our founder, Sofia, genetically has dark skin under her eyes naturally so she is religious about using sunscreen under her eyes.
CHOOSING AND USING A SUNSCREEN FOR DARK CIRCLES
- Try to opt for a non-toxic, non-nano sunscreen containing naturally occurring minerals such as zinc oxide or titanium dioxide. These create an effective barrier to block both UVA and UVB rays generally without causing the same irritation and harm as conventional chemicals in sunscreens which can make dark circles worse.
- Sun damage can make the skin under the eyes become weaker which can result in dark circles, so choose a sunscreen filled with ceramides – naturally occurring lipids which restore the skin’s barrier – will help nourish and protect the skin in this area. Don’t forget that staying hydrated is key to this too!
- One sunscreen is enough for the face, neck, and décolleté. You may want to invest in a specific one for under your eyes only, but this seems like an unnecessary investment when the ones for the face are usually also suitable for under the eyes. We recommend a minimum of SPF 30, increasing this in summer / depending on how much time you are spending outside.
- Be careful not to apply the SPF to under eyelids. Keep this to the skin under the eyes, along the socket. Continue to massage the area around your eyes to boost circulation as dark circles can appear if blood is not flowing well.
- As with all sunscreen, remember to apply at least 30 minutes before sun exposure and re-apply regularly throughout the day. Always wear sunglasses in the summer when you are spending more time outdoors, even when wearing an SPF for extra protection against sun damage.
For more of our top tips, read our post: Natural Ways To Reduce Dark Circles Under The Eyes
BEST NATURAL SUNSCREENS FOR SENSITIVE SKIN
For everyday use:
The Swiss brand, Ultrasun is our founder’s favourite – not only because it was the first brand to be Ecosun pass certified for sea/reef and land pollution, but because it moisturises, provides daily care to the skin, doesn’t leave a white residue on darker skin tones and is suitable for all skin types including ultra-sensitive skin. It contains a natural enzyme, Ectoin, which protects the skin from UVA damage and also from UVB and Infrared A rays, and includes GSP-T which protects skin cells from oxidative stress. Having an SPF of 50+ it provides protection against UVA levels of up to 98%. With a lightweight, non-greasy texture, the beauty of this is that it is fast-absorbing and long-lasting. It is hypoallergenic, vegan-friendly and free from perfume, mineral oils, preservatives and PEG/PPG emulsifiers.
For summer days when more time is spent outdoors:
Ultrasun Face Anti-Pigmentation SPF50+
Like our everyday pick, this also has a lightweight, non-greasy texture which hydrates and provides vital protection against the sun’s rays, while also bringing Ectoin to fight environmental aggressors which we know can damage the skin’s barrier and make it more vulnerable to sun damage. It also has anti-inflammatory benefits and is formulated to reduce skin pigmentation which comes as a result of the overproduction of melanin, making it ideal for under the eyes. As with the above, a tinted version of this product is also available.
Pai Skincare Hello Sunshine Sensitive Sunscreen SPF 30
Suitable for all skin types, including sensitive and eczema-prone skin, its mineral and plant-based, reef-friendly formula repairs the skin with Gossypium Herbaceum – a cotton extract – protecting the skin from any oxidative damage caused by UVA, UVB and Infrared rays. This product is vanilla fragranced, transparent, works well under make-up and blocks out up to 97% of UVB rays. The ingredients are 99% natural (COSMOS certified), cruelty-free, vegan-friendly, non-irritating, non-nano and it’s free from parabens, PEG, perfumes and synthetic colours.
You might also like:
Should You Change Your Skincare In The Summer?
Tips For Naturally Reducing Puffiness Under Eyes
DO YOU APPLY SUNSCREEN UNDER YOUR EYES?
WHICH IS YOUR FAVOURITE SPF?
We’d love for you to tell us in a comment below!
