7 Common Causes of Wrinkles Under Eyes

Wrinkles will emerge as we grow older, appearing on our foreheads, near our lips, or around our necks. In addition, we may find wrinkles under the eyes. Some fine lines are subtle and barely visible, while others look very prominent. You may feel startled by your under-eye wrinkles, making you seem tired or less energetic.

Fortunately, there are many effective beauty treatments for eye wrinkles. Numerous skincare products, face masks, and essential oils offer anti-aging benefits. You may also enjoy regular facial treatments to keep your skin refreshed and rejuvenated. Plus, several lifestyle changes can minimize the appearance of wrinkles, such as drinking more water or avoiding sun exposure.

As you seek the best eye wrinkle treatment, it helps to equip yourself with more knowledge. For example, you may want to know what causes wrinkles under the eyes. Understanding their origins can help you take preventative measures to reduce the lines, folds, and puffiness under your eyes.

Here are the seven causes of wrinkles under the eyes:

Cause #1: Age

Old age is the leading cause of wrinkles under the eyes. Your body's elastin and collagen production will decrease as you grow older. The low quantities lead to fine lines on your skin, including those underneath your eyes.

Collagen is a protein that gives firmness to your skin. It replenishes old and damaged skin cells, replacing them with new ones. Likewise, elastin is a protein that makes your skin supple and elastic. It allows the skin to regain its original shape when your muscles move. With less collagen and elastin, your skin struggles to create new cells and retain shape. That is why wrinkles will gradually appear as you age.

Cause #2: Rubbing your eyes

Many people rub their eyes when they are tired or sleepy. This seemingly harmless habit might cause some of those under-eye wrinkles. The skin in this area is thin and delicate. Every time you rub your eyes, you stretch the skin and move the muscles around. You break down elastin which helps your skin regain its shape, leading to more wrinkles.

Cause #3: Sun exposure

It's no secret that excessive sun exposure is harmful to our skin. Without proper protection, too much sun might result in a sunburn. It may also thicken the lower layers of your skin. This thickening prevents collagen and elastin proteins from renewing your skin cells efficiently. Plus, spending time under the sun can make you squint your eyes, a habit that results in more eye wrinkles.

Fortunately, there is an easy solution to this problem. Protect the skin under your eyes when you go outside for prolonged periods. Apply sunscreens, wear sunglasses, and shield your eyes with a hat.

Cause #4: Skin dehydration

If you are not drinking enough water, your skin probably appears dull, tight and flaky. Dehydration makes wrinkles under your eyes and on your face appear more pronounced. Fortunately, dehydrated skin can be a temporary condition. If you start drinking more water each day, your skin will look plumper, and your wrinkles will be less visible.

Cause #5: Facial expressions

Do you notice wrinkles under the eyes when smiling? Similarly, you may also see wrinkles while frowning or squinting. Some facial expressions are likelier to cause wrinkles. Lines and creases form on your skin when you repeatedly smile, squint, or frown. Eventually, these lines will become permanent if your skin doesn't produce enough collagen and elastin.

Of course, that doesn't mean you should stop smiling or making facial expressions. However, you could grow more mindful and make some minor adjustments. For example, you may squint a lot due to vision problems. If so, consider getting new glasses prescription to reduce the need for squinting.

Cause #6: Smoking and vaping

Smoking and vaping can cause damage to your skin, resulting in wrinkles on your face. Nicotine decreases blood flow, which means the skin struggles to get all the necessary protein, vitamins, and nutrients. Initially, this unhealthy habit will cause wrinkles around the lips. Over time, the effects may spread under the eyes and across your face. If you smoke or vape, quitting should help prevent the formation of more wrinkles.

Cause #7: Not sleeping on your back

Did you know that your sleeping position could be causing wrinkles under your eyes? If you rest on your belly or your side, you press your face against the pillow for hours each night. With time, these lines and creases could become permanent. Instead, try to sleep on your back. That way, only the back of your head touches your pillow.