The poets say that the eyes are the windows to the soul and they are also the first area to show signs of ageing, whether it’s wrinkles, bags, hollows or dark circles. There are several reasons why the eye area is more vulnerable to the ageing process.
- The skin around the eyes is very thin and delicate, making it more prone to skin laxity and developing fine lines.
- The supporting structure of fat and muscles in the eye socket is also less robust than other areas of the body, so you’re more susceptible to sagging and the loss of the natural contours of the eye.
- The eye area also has less concentration of oil glands and studies have shown that skin with less oil glands are more prone to wrinkles.
- Around the eyes and across the brow are powerful dynamic muscles that are constantly used for facial expressions. Overtime, crow’s feet and frown lines develop.
- As we age, our skin becomes thinner and veins become more prominent, presenting as dark circles and hollows. Thin skin also fills more easily with fluid which leads to puffiness under the eyes.
Eye concern #1: Crow’s Feet
Crow’s feet as well as frown lines across the forehead and between the brows are the result of the constant contraction and relaxation of our facial muscles. As we age and naturally lose elastin and collagen, permanent lines become etched around the eyes.
Crow’s feet and other dynamic wrinkles respond brilliantly to anti-wrinkle injections which work by temporarily blocking the signals sent by the facial nerves, relaxing these muscles and smoothing the overlying skin. Botulinum toxin lasts approximately between three and four months, before you notice the muscles begin to work as normal.
Many patients can be apprehensive that they’ll look frozen after a wrinkle relaxing treatment. Dr Mooz is a highly skilled and experienced practitioner, and the aim is always to gently relax and smooth these deep lines, rather than losing all natural facial expression.
Eye concern #2: Dark Circles & Hollows Under the Eyes
As we age, our skin thins and we lose volume; under the eyes this presents as dark circles and a hollow that forms at the junction between the periorbital area and the cheeks, known as the tear trough.
This isn’t always an ageing concern as younger men and women can be genetically predisposed. Lifestyle factors such as stress, alcohol, smoking, lack of sleep and sun damage can all also contribute.
Injections of hyaluronic acid dermal filler can build-up the area under the eye, reducing the appearance of dark circles and the tear trough. HA is a naturally-occurring component in the skin that naturally depletes as we age. It attracts hydration so the area becomes brighter and plumper. They are also very malleable, so Dr Mooz delivers results that are perfect for your facial structure and ageing concerns.
Eye concern #3: Sagging on the Upper Lids
As the skin and muscles on the upper lids start to sag, fine lines develop, and the contours of the eye are lost. Alongside these aesthetic changes, patients can experience functional issues if the hooding on the upper lids starts to cause vision problems.
An upper eyelid lift, known as a blepharoplasty, is a surgical procedure to remove excess fat and skin and strengthen the supporting structures of the eye. Recovery after an eyelid lift is relatively straightforward and the eyes will look instantly rejuvenated.
For more advice on ageing concerns around the eye, call 0207 411 9858 to arrange a consultation with Dr Mooz.
