retinol as under eye cream?

[beth736]

I am in my late 30's and have been using retinol for my face for years now and i find it really effective. I was wondering if i can use it under my eyes as well.  The skin under my eyes have fine lines, and looks dull and dry.  if not, what  can you recommend I could use to make it more youthful looking? Thank you.

[Bhupinder Kaur, MD]

Hello,
Do not use retinol as under eye cream without a doctor’s guidance. Take rest adequately and eat healthy nutritious food containing lots of green vegetables. Try to avoid caffeine, because it promotes water retention and leads to the dryness of the eye. You should also apply almond oil or skin creams containing vit C or K,alpha hydroxyl acids and kinetin.

It is very difficult to precisely confirm a diagnosis without examination and investigations and the answer is based on the medical information provided. For exact diagnosis, you are requested to consult your doctor. I sincerely hope that helps. Take care and please do keep me posted on how you are doing.

[Dr Santos]

Hi,
How are you? Vitamin A comes from animal sources (retinoids) which includes retinol, or from plants (carotenoids).  While there are gentler formulas with retinol that may be used as eye cream available now to diminish wrinkles, it is recommended that you talk to your doctor or dermatologist first for proper management. There are many available eye creams available in the market today and the specific cream indicated usually depends on the initial evaluation of a doctor. Take care and do keep us posted.