Can retinol cause dark circles under eyes?

Author: Audie White V  |  Last update: Sunday, June 4, 2023

Yes, long-term, and overzealous application of a retinol product around the eye area can make dark circles look worse. This is a result of the side effects that occur when applying retinol to the skin, which are often red, flaky rings around the eye area that once become healed will appear dark.

Can retinol increase dark circles?

Plus, it has the proven studies to back it up; Research has found that retinol can help decrease the appearance of dark circles and stimulate collagen and elastin production to reduce the appearance of lines.

Why am I suddenly getting dark circles under my eyes?

Dark circles under the eyes are usually caused by being tired. Sometimes, what appear to be dark circles under your eyes may merely be shadows cast by puffy eyelids or hollows under your eyes that develop as a normal part of aging. Dark circles under the eyes usually aren't a medical problem.

Can retinol cause bags under eyes?

Retinol, salicylic acid, glycolic acid—all effective ingredients that can improve the look and feel of your complexion. But they can lead to irritation, and when used too close to your delicate eye area, that irritation can lead to bags.

Does retinol cream help with dark circles 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.

Is Retinol Safe Around Your Eyes? Eye Doctor Explains

Is retinol too strong for under eye?

Because retinol is a strong ingredient, using it under your eyes has the potential to cause irritation. The under eye area is one of the most delicate areas on your skin, so it's best to proceed with caution when using the ingredient.

Should you avoid eye area with retinol?

Avoid taking the retinol up to the lash line as this can cause potential irritation. Don't forget to use your retinol eye cream in your evening routine as exposure to UV light will make retinol lose its potency.

What does overuse of retinol look like?

The telltale signs of retinol burn include skin that is red, irritated, flaky, inflamed, sore to the touch, and/or shedding. "You could also be experiencing breakouts or inflamed acne that is not usual for your skin," adds Idriss.

What happens if you wear too much retinol?

If you use too high a strength or apply retinol more frequently than you should, you may experience further irritation, like itchiness and scaly patches. Some people have noticed acne breakouts after using retinol, though this is a rare side effect.

What are side effects of retinol?

Side effects of using retinol may include:
  • Redness.
  • Irritation.
  • Burning.
  • Itching.
  • Dry skin.
  • Flaking and peeling of the skin.
  • Increased sensitivity to the sun.
  • Skin cancer.

What deficiency is dark circles?

Anemia or an iron deficiency can result in dark eye circles as not enough oxygen reaches the body's tissues. Liver problems can also be a cause. Any medications that make blood vessels dilate can cause eye circles to darken as well.

What vitamin is good for dark circles under eyes?

Eating vitamin K on a daily basis will particularly help with the disappearance of your dark circles. Turnip greens, cauliflower, pomegranate, and tomatoes are some rich sources of vitamin K.

Can dark circles go away?

As with reducing puffiness, sleeping, and eating well can help reduce the look of dark circles under eyes. Try these: Work on getting enough uninterrupted sleep so you can look rested and refreshed. Try limiting both excess salt and sugar from your diet.

What causes dark circles to worsen?

“Very commonly, dark circles worsen with age,” says Dr. McGevna. “That's because there's a natural restructuring of the bones of the cheek, and some skin laxity in the eyelids, which leads to a hollow appearance, and a shadow from above.”

What happens if I use retinol every night?

Use Retinol Only at Night and Wear SPF Every Day

"Retinol makes your skin more sensitive to UV rays and sunlight decreases the efficacy of the product," explains Bowe, who instructs patients to only use retinoids at night and be diligent about applying a daily broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher during the day.

When should I stop using retinol?

Discontinue use if you have negative side effects after a few weeks of use and contact your physician to help reassess your skin type and find a solution that will protect your skin barrier . Consider using moisturizing and soothing topical skin care products with retinol to counteract its negative side effects.

Why do my wrinkles look worse after retinol?

First, the answer is yes, retinol can make wrinkles worse, especially when you first start using it. What is happening is a drying effect, and one can get epidermal sliding from separation from the dermis.

Can I suddenly stop using retinol?

You see, retinol impacts your skin's normal function, and when you stop it your skin has to re-learn how to regulate itself properly again. So typically when people stop using it they experience either bad acne or bad dryness for a few weeks afterwards.

Is retinol damage reversible?

In many cases, damage that has already occurred can't be reversed, making early detection important. Your doctor will work with you to determine the best treatment. Treatment of retinal disease may be complex and sometimes urgent.

Does retinol thicken skin under eyes?

Retinol, a popular derivative of vitamin A, is loved by many for its exceptional anti-aging properties that eliminate fine lines and wrinkles and renew the skin to make it plump and younger-looking. It also boosts collagen production, which will work wonders for thickening up your undereye skin.

Can you use ordinary retinol under eyes?

Don't want to invest in an entirely different eye cream? That's fine too: "You can use a retinol-containing cream around the eye area," says Joshua Zeichner, MD, a New York City-based dermatologist. Try layering your moisturizer on before you put retinol on the area or mix it with your moisturizer.

Can retinol cream damage eyes?

Retinoids and retinol in anti-aging facial lotions and under-eye creams can cause meibomian gland damage. Dr. Periman said she recommends that her dry eye patients stop using retinyl derivatives on the face altogether. “When patients stop using Retin-A around the eyes, their dry eye gets better,” she said.

Can I use retinol under my eyes everyday?

King. If you have sensitive skin, start with once a week. If you're not experiencing any irritation, you can work your way up to using retinol eye cream nightly. And remember, retinoids can make skin more sensitive to the sun, so any product that contains retinol should be part of your nighttime skincare routine only.

How do I know if my retinol is too strong?

“Signs of overuse of retinol, or using a retinol that's too strong, include skin ruddiness, flaking, irritation and thinning,” Joy explains.

What to avoid when using retinol?

Don't Mix: Retinol with vitamin C, benzoyl peroxide, and AHA/BHA acids. AHA and BHA acids are exfoliating, which can dry out the skin and cause further irritation if your skincare routine already includes retinol.

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