The skin throughout our bodies is often perceived as being fairly similar. Although the basic makeup of the skin (epidermis and dermal components) is the same from the face to the toes, there are substantial differences in their ratios and thicknesses at different bodily locations. These differences can not only take advantage of , but require, the benefits many topical products that are available. This is particularly relevant in the unique skin around the eyes and the lips. These areas are often where cosmeceuticals can have the greatest impact on their appearance.
The skin around the eyes, particularly the eyelids, is very thin and one of the thinnest on the entire body. What makes it so thin is that it has an epidermal layer on the dermis that is substantially thinner than that found on the rest of the face. This scant epidermis is exposed to the constant effects of blinking, squinting and smiling which easily lends to the formation of wrinkles. This is exacerbated by the lack of any substantative oil glands in eyelid skin to keep it supple. While Botox can help with reducing the dynamic component of eye area wrinkles, moisturization of eyelid and periorbital skin is critical. Because of the thinness of the epidermis, it is also an area that can be exquisitely sensitive to exfoliating and peeling agents. This is why every skin care product line has specific eye topical agents which usually have lower concentrations of and milder exfoliating agents to reduce reactive redness and the flaking of the skin.
The skin on the lips is also unique. Besides being less thick than the surrounding facial skin, the lips have no sweat or oil glands. As such there is no natural protective barrier to keep the lips smooth. When exposed to theenzymes that the saliva in our mouth contains, the lips can be a facial area of constant dryness and irritation. This becomes exacerbated in colder weather where moisture loss occurs more rapidly and the lips become drier. Similar to the eye area, lips have their own need for topical products that both hydrate and exfoliate. Lips need more hydration than exfoliation so a topical lip product contains different ingredients than that used around the eyes. This has led to many types of lipstick containing more than just color. Reactive inflammation is better tolerated aesthetically in the lips due to the swelling which can occur. The creation of a temporary enlargement of the lips is more pleasing than swelling around the eyes.
The eyes and the lips are unique areas of facial skin that are prime targets for the benefits of topical products. Such products are an integral part of any skin care maintenance program as well as after aesthetic eyelid (blepharoplasty) and lip augmentation procedures.
Dr. Barry Eppley
Indianapolis, Indiana