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If you’re over 40 and investing in fancy eye creams, a dermatologist says you might be missing the most important step in your skincare routine — and it’s not what you think.
According to a board-certified dermatologist Dr. Sam, the biggest mistake people make when it comes to caring for the delicate eye area isn’t skipping retinol or not using peptides — it’s forgetting sunscreen.
“Want to know what the number one mistake people are making when it comes to using eye cream? Not using sunscreen as their first eye cream,” Dr. Sam explained.
@drsamsskincare THIS the number one eye cream mistake that I see all the time in my clinic #skincare #skincaretips #dermatologist original sound – Dr Sam’s Skincare
Why Sunscreen Matters More Than Any Eye Cream
As we age, the skin around the eyes becomes thinner, more fragile, and prone to fine lines. Many people turn to eye creams packed with collagen-boosting or hydrating ingredients — but without daily sun protection, it’s an uphill battle.
“When it comes to preserving the delicate, thin skin around the eyes, what is crucial is maintaining elastin levels — the thing that makes the skin snap — and collagen levels, the thing that makes the skin thick and crease resistant,” the dermatologist shared.
Sun damage breaks down collagen and elastin faster than any other factor, leading to sagging and fine lines. The simplest way to prevent that? Daily SPF — even around the eyes.
The Best Sunscreen for Sensitive Eyes
If you’ve ever avoided SPF because it stings or irritates your eyes, the derm says there’s an easy fix.
“Your most powerful tool at combating both of those things is sunscreen. Don’t skip it. If you’re prone to sensitivity, choose a mineral sunscreen, which is much less likely to sting your eyes,” she advised.
Mineral formulas with zinc oxide or titanium dioxide provide gentle yet effective protection and are ideal for the thin skin around the eyes.
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The Bottom Line
Here are two stand-out products worth adding to your routine:
Supergoop! Bright‑Eyed Mineral Eye Cream SPF 40: A dedicated eye cream with mineral SPF 40, designed specifically for the fragile skin around the eyes—so you’re covered from puffy lids, fine lines and UV exposure.
La Roche‑Posay Anthelios Mineral Ultra‑Light Fluid SPF 50: A lightweight, broad-spectrum mineral sunscreen for your full face (including the eye area). With zinc oxide and titanium dioxide, it offers serious protection without irritation.
Before you reach for that luxury eye cream, make sure your SPF routine is locked in. Sunscreen is your true anti-aging hero — especially for keeping the skin around your eyes firm, smooth, and resilient well into your 40s and beyond.
