When to Start Using Eye Cream: What You Should Know

Figuring out when to start using eye cream feels unnecessarily complicated. Is it something you really need in your twenties? Or can you wait until fine lines and dark circles actually show up? The advice you’ll find today is nothing like the advice you’d have found in the early aughts—early prevention is both trendy and evidence-based. 

The skin around your eyes ages faster than the rest of your face. Giving it the right care early on can make a major difference down the line. Whether you're thinking about prevention or targeting visible signs of aging, there is a smart time to start, and the right product can help you get ahead.

Let's break down when to start using eye cream based on your age, skin characteristics, and skin goals, plus how to find a formula that actually delivers.

Why Eye Cream Matters More Than You Think

The skin around your eyes is thinner, drier, and more fragile than the rest of your face. It also has fewer oil glands, making it one of the first places where fine lines show up. If you want to delay deep wrinkles and crow’s feet, using an eye cream in your twenties is not just a good idea, it’s smart prevention.

Collagen production starts slowing down in your twenties, and the eye area is already working with less structural support. Add years of UV exposure into the mix, and you are looking at one of the biggest reasons aging shows up early around the eyes. Eye creams that boost collagen and strengthen your skin's scaffolding are your best defense.

When to Start Using Eye Cream 

In Your Early 20s:

If your skin looks smooth and plump, you might not need a heavy-duty eye cream just yet. A lightweight, hydrating moisturizer is usually enough. However, if you're seeing early signs of fine lines, especially if you have fair skin, a history of UV exposure, or a family history of early aging,  it's smart to start with a gentle, preventative eye cream. Look for formulas with antioxidants, hydration boosters, and SPF.

Mid to Late 20s:

This is when collagen production starts to slow. If you haven't already added an eye cream, now's the time. Choose one that offers both hydration and collagen support, with ingredients like peptides or low-strength retinoids or retinols.

In Your 30s and Beyond:

By your 30s, targeted eye creams should become a non-negotiable part of your skincare routine. Focus on products that target deeper wrinkles, texture changes, and volume loss. Retinoid eye creams, antioxidants, and rich moisturizers can help rebuild collagen and strengthen thinning skin.

Reminder – Listen to your skin:

Your skin, not your age, should be your guide. If you notice fine lines in your early 20s, listen to your skin. If you're still smooth into your late 20s, keep focusing on prevention. It's all about reading the signs your skin is giving you.

How to Pick the Right Eye Cream for You

Not all eye creams are created equal. The best formula for you depends on what your skin is telling you and what your main goals are.

If you're focused on prevention:

Look for lightweight, hydrating eye creams packed with antioxidants like Vitamin C, niacinamide, or hyaluronic acid. These ingredients help protect your skin barrier and keep early fine lines at bay without being too heavy.

If you're seeing early signs of aging:

Start incorporating gentle retinoid eye creams. Retinoids like tretinoin work to stimulate collagen production and improve skin texture over time exactly what thinning, crepey skin needs. However, only use retinoid creams that are designed for the eye. 

If you're dealing with visible fine lines, wrinkles, or puffiness:

Go for richer formulas with stronger actives. Retinoids, niacinamide, vitamin C, hyaluronic acid, and caffeine are powerhouse ingredients for boosting collagen, smoothing wrinkles, firming up the skin, and reducing puffiness. Strut Eye Cream packs 8 powerful ingredients into one eye cream. 

Bonus Tip:

Always be sure your eye cream is designed for the delicate eye area. Regular face creams are often too harsh, heavy, or can cause irritation or milia.

Strut Eye Cream: A Dermatologist-Level Eye Cream Formula for Real Results

Strut Eye Cream is a powerful blend of dermatologist-approved ingredients, formulated to target fine lines, puffiness, and dark circles with precision. Featuring a combination of prescription-strength actives like Tretinoin and Tacrolimus, our formula calms, strengthens, and rejuvenates the delicate skin around the eyes.

With ingredients like Vitamin C for brightening, caffeine to reduce puffiness, and DMAE to tighten, Strut Eye Cream works immediately to give you a refreshed, youthful appearance. Plus, it supports long-term skin health by boosting collagen and hydration for lasting results.

Whether you're in your thirties or beyond, Strut Eye Cream provides the dermatologist-level care your skin deserves.

Final Thoughts on When to Start Using Eye Cream

Ultimately, the best time to start using eye cream depends on your skin, your lifestyle, and how proactive you want to be about aging. While prevention is key in your twenties, by the time you hit your thirties, it's time to begin using a more targeted treatment. 

The skin around your eyes is delicate and responds well to early intervention, especially with the right ingredients.

Whether you're looking to prevent the first signs of aging or target existing fine lines and puffiness, incorporating a high-quality eye cream into your daily routine may help achieve noticeable, lasting results. 

If you’re ready for targeted prescription treatments at affordable prices, take Strut’s medical questionnaire to see if you qualify for our prescription anti-aging Strut Eye Cream. If you’re a good candidate, your cream will be made fresh and delivered right to your door. 

‍