Eye Enhancer De-Puffing Peptide Cream

The skin around your eyes and in particular, underneath the eyes is one of the thinnest parts in the body and somewhat transparent. So it hides very little. It reveals the subcutaneous vascular network that can change with fatigue and age leading to the appearance of dark circles under the eyes. Eyelid fluid can also accumulate in the soft tissue area under the eyes leading to eye bags. Due to the prominent role of the orbicularis muscle in the lower eyelid, this fluid can take on a purplish color. The loss of soft tissue including subcutaneous fat atrophy with aging that can further accentuate the appearance of dark circles. The expressive skin around the eyes is prone to acquire expression wrinkles as well. Finally, photoaging and aging can further lead to fine lines and wrinkles and hyperpigmentation, contributing to a tired and aged appearance (Vrcek et al. 2016).

Topical eye creams are formulated to tackle these unique challenges that are encountered by the skin around your eyes. The latest development in modern eye cream technology are peptides that can target dark circles, eye-bags, and expression lines. Here, we combine the benefits of two peptides specifically engineered to tackle these challenges: Eyeseryl and Argireline.

Eyeseryl (Acetyl Tetrapeptide-5) is a peptide shown to have anti-edema properties to reduce puffy eyebags. It may potentially have this action in two ways. The formation of eyebags may be due to water accumulation due to increased capillary permeability, and Eyeseryl in vitro has been shown to inhibit vascular permeability in a dose-dependent manner. Collagen cross-linking after glycation is another factor that may lead to eyebags, and Eyeseryl in vitro has been shown to inhibit glycation. In one clinical study conducted by the manufacturer, both eye-bag volume and dark circles were reduced by 3% after 15 days with more patients showing greater improvement with continued usage up to 28 days (Lipotec EyeserylR).

Argireline (Acetyl Hexapeptide-8) is a neurotransmitter inhibiting peptide that has been found to reduce the depth of expression wrinkles, especially around the eyes. Neurotransmitter inhibiting peptides are sometimes described as botox-like, because like botox, they block the action of neurotransmitters in the neuromuscular junction so that the contraction of the muscle is attenuated, leading to a decrease in wrinkling from facial expressions. In one clinical study conducted by the manufacturer, after 30 days of twice a day application with Argireline cream, expression wrinkles around the eyes were decreased by an average of 27% (Lipotec ArgirelineR).

In addition to peptides, topical caffeine has popularly been used to combat puffy eyes and dark circles. For example, placing refrigerated tea bags on the eyelids has been believed to reduce puffy eyes. This is due to the fact that caffeine is a powerful vasoconstrictor. Studies show that caffeine can penetrate into skin, and application of a caffeine gel can reduce the swollen and dark appearance of puffy eyes (Amnuaikit et al. 2011).

In addition to peptides and caffeine specifically targeting eye bags, dark circles and expression wrinkles, this eye cream contains tried and true anti-aging ingredients niacinamide and panthenol. Niacinamide (Vitamin B3) and panthenol (provitamin B5) can reduce the appearance of wrinkles by increasing collagen and elastin, the underlying scaffold that supports skin’s bounce and resilience. They also support the skin barrier and reduce inflammation. To learn more, consult our newsletters on niacinamide and panthenol.

This lightweight, amber-colored gel cream is designed to be quick absorbing to de-puff while hydrating. It contains instantly hydrating humectants hyaluronic acid and glycerin that can instantly smooth out the appearance of fine lines, while lipids from squalane and camellia oil provide a natural emollient system to help hold in the hydration while feeling very light and non-greasy. This quick-absorbing gel can go underneath your daily facial moisturizer, sunscreen, or makeup. In dry weather, we recommend that you apply a heavier moisturizer on top of this light gel cream.

A carefully selected host of botanical extracts make this eye gel a standout. These botanical extracts which include extracts from apple stem cell, argan stem cell, cucumber, goji berry, grape skin, and aloe are known to contain several phyto-compounds that have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. This helps soothe and protect the delicate skin around your eyes, giving it a comprehensive pampering that helps improve the texture, tone and radiance around your eyes, allowing you to always look your freshest.

Yes. The peptides, caffeine, and accompanying ingredients in this product are all considered generally safe to use topically during pregnancy and lactation. However, it is always advisable to check with your doctor regarding skin care products and ingredients and follow their protocol.

Amnuaikit T, Maneenuan D, Boonme P (2011). “Evaluation of Caffeine gels on Physicochemical Characteristics and In Vivo Efficacy in Reducing Puffy Eyes.” Journal of Applied Pharmaceutical Science 01:56-59.

Lipotec EyeserylR: https://www.lubrizol.com/Personal-Care/Products/Product-Finder/Products-Data/Eyeseryl-peptide-solution-G

Lipotec ArgirelineR: https://www.lubrizol.com/Personal-Care/Products/Argireline-Peptide

Vrcek I, Ozgur O, Nakra T (2016). “Infraorbital Dark Circles: A Review of the Pathogenesis, Evaluation and Treatment.” J Cutan Aesthet Surg 9(2): 65-72.