The physiology of the eye contour is complex, given that it is an area that is particularly vulnerable and sensitive. Indeed, the skin around the eyes, which is extremely delicate, is the first to show signs of fatigue and aging with the appearance of dark circles, bags, or fine lines on the lower eyelid. Here are the reasons for this fragility.
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Why is the area around the eye so delicate?
Summary
- 1. An almost non-existent hydrolipidic film
- 2. An extremely thin skin
- 3. A dermis poor in support fibers
- 4. A highly vascularized area
- 5. Limited subcutaneous fat
- 6. A highly utilized area
Published June 28, 2021,
updated on October 4, 2024,
by
Stéphanie, PhD, Doctorate in Life and Health Sciences
—
3 min read
1. An almost non-existent hydrolipidic film.
The eyelids are parts of the body that are very deficient in sebaceous and sweat glands. Therefore, they lack the two main components of the hydrolipidic film: sebum and sweat. As a result, the skin around the eyes is more prone to dehydration, dryness, and is not protected from external aggressions.
2. An extremely thin skin.
With a thickness of about 0.5 millimeters, the skin around the eye is on average 5 times thinner than that of the rest of the face. This thinness not only facilitates the penetration of cosmetic actives present in eye contour treatments but also makes it easier for allergens to penetrate. Moreover, this thinness makes the skin translucent, allowing subcutaneous elements (blood capillaries, orbicular muscle, etc.) to be more easily visible.
3. A dermis poor in support fibers.
The elastin and collagen fibers are less abundant there than in other areas of the face, making the area prone to skin sagging. This particularity of the eye contour plays a role in the formation of water and fat bags.
4. A highly vascularized area.
The blood and lymphatic capillaries serve as a site of intense exchange with the tissues. In the area around the eye, this microcirculation can be easily disrupted. Thus, if the circulation speed decreases, there will be less oxygen and nutrients delivered to the tissues, and waste products will not be properly removed.
5. Limited subcutaneous fat.
In addition to a thin skin, the layer of adipose tissue that makes up thehypodermis is much thinner than elsewhere.
6. A highly utilized area.
The skin around the eye is subjected to over 10,000 blinks per day, with the purpose of protecting and hydrating the eye. The repetitive action of the muscles damages the elastic fibers of the dermis and expression lines appear. Although physiology and heredity play a major role in the formation of dark circles and bags under the eyes, poor lifestyle habits (lack of sleep, stress, smoking, excessive alcohol, diet, etc...) can be responsible for their exacerbation.
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