Retin-A for Eyes

If you've got saggy, droopy eyes like I used to have, you probably hate them. They make us look tired and old. Have you thought about using retin-a (tretinoin topical) on eyelids and surrounding skin? I've been using retina on my eyes for about two years, and I think they're better in two ways: first, they don't sag like they used to, although I also believe my diet helps with that; second, I think the skin is firmer, although I'm two years older.

Here are my eyes before I started using Retin-A. The lighting isn't the best, but you get the idea:

My eyelids were saggy and droopy. The relaxed skin was partially from aging, but I also consumed too much sugar, which contributed to inflammation. That inflammation is fluid behind the lids, which pushes the skin outward instead of allowing it to sink inward. I changed my diet dramatically two years ago and started using retin a all over my face at least 3x/week.

Here are a couple pictures I've taken over the last year; the lighting is different, but you can see the change:

I am very conservative with the retin-a, although I use the strongest formula. After I moisturize with olive oil, I dab the least amount possible, really what's left over on my fingers after applying a pea-size amount to my face.

If you prefer to use OTC retinoids rather than visiting a doctor for a prescription, many are now as effective as prescription strength. They’re available in prescription strength, but studies show that  OTC products produce results as good as prescriptions!

The first month was weird: I felt like my eyes did look worse: sort of dry and older crepe-paper like, but I stuck with it because I've read that it takes the eyes a long time to exfoliate this way. When I started noticing some flakes around my eyes, I used oil and massaged the skin gently; this helps a lot, but I don't do it regularly.

If you're starting to dislike what you see around your eyes, consider retin-a. It's just a chemical peel for the eyelids and surrounding skin.

Previously, I used Retin-A RX from my dermatologist, but now I make it myself, because, of course! If you're interested in learning about the main ingredient I use to make my retinyl / retinol creme, check out this link.