Self-Care for Your Eyes

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There’s no question that Brits believe in the power of self-care. An Aqua survey found that 90% of people in the UK do one or more self-care activities, spending an average of £53 per month. However, only 35% of the women surveyed mentioned that physical well-being is their main priority. This mindset is reflected in the UK’s eye care habits: data from an Eye Q survey suggests that over 17 million people have not undergone eye tests in the last two years. While typical self-care practices like massages and meditation can be enjoyable and relaxing, it’s vital to place physical wellness, such as eye wellness, at the core of your self-care philosophy. Here are a few simple steps for you to reframe your eye care routine:

Wearing sunglasses

Sunglasses are an eye protection item that needs no introduction: they protect your eyes from UV damage and shield the delicate skin around them. On days when you’re feeling particularly low or want to be more incognito, they also help enhance mental self-care by protecting your eyes (and emotions) from the world. Those with vision issues such as nearsightedness can also take advantage of these benefits through the use of prescription sunglasses; the Oakley Hold Out frames are designed to guarantee eye comfort, which is essential for wearers who need all-day vision correction. Made of Oakley’s lightweight, stress-resistant O Matter™ frame material, this model features lenses that minimise glare and optimise eye care with various lens treatments, such as UV protection that filters out UVA, UVB, UVC, and even harmful blue light. By enhancing clarity and contrast, the right pair of sunglasses helps you see the world clearly and prioritise self-care daily, whether sunbathing on holiday or running errands on a bright afternoon. Just update your prescription every year or as indicated by your optometrist.

Modifying your eye makeup routine

Wearing beautiful makeup can be a form of self-care, so it makes sense that 84% of UK women wear makeup – and that 57% like to enhance their eye area with products like mascara, according to the Hollywood Mirror. However, when applied or removed improperly, it can cause the eyes to look drab and dull, so improving your routine can help. Before using any eye makeup, apply a primer that hydrates the area. This doesn’t just help makeup adhere better; it also minimises irritation caused by eyeshadows and liners. Secondly, always put makeup on with gentle dabs and strokes, as excessive rubbing can result in unwanted pigmentation and bumps. Finally, removing eye makeup is the best way to enhance your evening eye care routine. An Ergoflex UK survey found that one in four UK women don’t remove makeup at night, which can encourage the growth of microbes or result in dry eye. An oil-based cleanser like the Banila Co Clean It Zero can remove stubborn eye makeup, followed by a cleanser before proceeding with the rest of your routine.

Sleeping well

According to an Aviva study, Brits are far from having ideal sleep habits. 51% of UK adults do not get enough sleep and 45% mention that stress keeps them up at night. This can cause long-term damage to your eyes over time, from fatigue and strain to dark circles, puffiness, and more. We’ve already discussed the importance of having a consistent sleep schedule and how one way to do this is by detaching from your digital devices before bedtime. This can become part of a larger eye-centred care routine, such as dimming the lights and applying a soothing depuffing cream to the eye area. Crucially, you can use an eye mask to keep light sources from disrupting your sleep. Silk options like the LILYSILK eye mask are gentle on the delicate eye area. By allowing your eyes to rest in complete darkness, you can encourage your body to repair and renew itself, ultimately enhancing your eyes and overall health.

Prepared by: Jane O’Brian

For: www.ilovecosmetics.co.uk