Wondering how to brighten and hydrate your eyes? Same here…

We’re more than half way through winter and it’s likely your eyes might be over it. We are.

Cold temperatures and icy winds can make them dehydrated and also sensitive. Some may have been leaning into the Pinot Noir a little bit, which can cause puffiness and dark circles. Or, we might just feel like brightening up our orbital area. Perhaps even a refresh if eyes are becoming tired and droopy? Sydney cosmetic surgeon, Dr Michael Zacharia shares his insights into eye puffiness, dehydration, dark circles and more.

What’s the definition of tired eyes?

Tired eyes can be identified by excess skin drooping over the upper eyelid. This makes it difficult to apply mascara, eyeliner, or eyeshadow as usual. Additionally, noticeable eye bags may develop under the eyes, or the outer corner of the eye might droop downward.

Tired eyes might result from ptosis affecting the eye shape or from excess skin sagging over the eyes. This can also include eye bags caused by fat pad bulging under the eyes. There are surgical options to address tired eyes. These include ptosis repair performed by an ophthalmologist, upper or lower blepharoplasty, SOOF lifts (Sub-Orbicularis Oculi Fat), or brow lifts.

What’s the definition of Dehydrated Eyes?

Dehydrated skin around the eyes feels tight and rough, often showing numerous fine lines. In severe cases, the skin may appear slightly pink. It results from a lack of hydration in that area. We can effectively treat it using skin booster injectables or eye creams and serums containing hyaluronic acid.

Some of my skincare recommendations include:

ImprovEyes Day
Synergie Skin ImprovEyes Day
ImprovEyes Night
Synergie Skin ImprovEyes Night
ISDINCEUTICS K-Ox Eyes
ISDINCEUTICS K-Ox Eyes
Synergie Skin Priority B
Synergie Skin Priority B
Synergie Skin HyalaVive
Synergie Skin HyalaVive

Non-surgical alternatives for rejuvenating tired eyes include:

What causes puffy bags under eyes?

Essentially, these are fatty pads under the eyes, often referred to as eye bags. They’re pockets of fat that protrude beneath the lower eyelids. Fat pads under the eyes can grow and sinus issues under the eyes can also cause fluid. Especially in the morning after waking up from laying flat while you sleep. These can occur from both genetics and lifestyle factors such as allergies, a lack of sleep and diet.

Lower Blepharoplasty and the new SOOF lift can help reduce them. Mid Face Lifting can also sometimes help with this condition. It could be that the upper cheek may be falling down towards the nose. This can often cause the eyes to look worse than what they are.

What causes dark under-eye circles?

Genetics, hollows and shadows around the eyes, sinus issues or lack of circulation on the skin cells.

A change in lifestyle can ease them in some circumstances. A full assessment would be required discussing lifestyle, medical history and assessing the patient’s anatomy.

When to consider a consultation for an eyelid reduction?

You might wish to consider this if and when the eye bag is creating a crease line or you feel it is making you look tired no matter what makeup you apply. Perhaps your eyes also look significantly more tired as the day goes on. There could be excess skin or fat pads, or your eyes might not be as big as they used to be or they’re looking tired or aged. Eyelid reduction may address chronic tired eyes but if the brow position is low you may require a brow lift at the same time. If the eyes are also dehydrated, we would have the patient do a series of skin boosters or use a good eye cream pre and post surgery.

Shonagh Walker is one of Australia's most prolific and respected lifestyle writers, covering everything from health and beauty to travel and entertainment. In her 30+ year career she has interviewed some of the world's most famous faces, covered stories from the lighthearted to the very serious, all with the aim of somehow helping her readers feel better about themselves, or arming them with information to enjoy life to the fullest. Shonagh is the recipient of several prestigious awards for her work. On the rare day she is not at her computer, she can be found walking her dogs or trying to improve her gardening skills.