Eyelid Pearls – Part II
By Peter T. Pacik, MD, FACS

Following our last email "Eyelid Pearls," we had a number of inquiries asking us to elaborate on dark circles under the eyes, and questions regarding creams for skin lightening.

Increased lower eyelid pigment is especially prevalent in long-term smokers— the skin becomes damaged as well as the lungs. Nicotine staining is a toxin that discolors the lungs and eyelids. Other causes of dark lower lids are genetics, aging and sun damage. The pigment is located at different levels in the skin for different people. Unless a biopsy is done (which most people don't want to bother with), it is difficult to know how deep the pigment is located. The more superficial the pigment, the more amenable it is to treatment with skin lightening creams.

Skin lightening creams that contain 4% hydroquinone (prescription strength) such as Glyquin-XM, Solaquin Forte and Obagi Nu-Derm Clear can help to reduce the appearance of dark circles under the eyes. In addition, I advise the use of a glycolic product such as M.D. Forte Skin Rejuvenating Eye Cream to aid in exfoliating the dead cell barrier, permitting better penetration of the skin lightening cream. The glycolic and hydroquinone in combination may be helpful in smoothing and tightening the lower lids as well as aid in lightening the skin. Generally, I advise patients to apply the lightening cream to the affected area twice daily. After 1-2 minutes of skin absorption, apply the MD Forte Skin Rejuvenating Eye cream. Skin lightening products work slowly—patience and perseverance are required.

Please Note : Not all patients can tolerate hydroquinones or glycolics. As with any new products, it is always safest to test with small quantities on the back of the hand. If there is no redness, the products are probably safe to use on your face. Always start sparingly, initially using the products every 2-3 days, then increase use as the skin becomes conditioned. Some temporary reddening of the skin and a mild burning sensation may occur. This reddening does not necessarily mean that treatment should be stopped. If redness or irritation continues, use once daily or every other day until tolerated. If no lightening occurs after six months, the pigment may be too deep for the skin lightening creams to be effective. If this is the case, discontinue the lightening creams, but continue using the MD Forte Skin Rejuvenating Eye Cream to maintain more youthful looking eyes.  

The last email showed before and after photographs of my own eyelid treatment program. I have been on the MD Forte 4-Step Daily Regimen plus the MD Forte Skin Rejuvenating Eye Cream for 3 years and I am thrilled with my results. We neglected to point out that the lightening of my facial skin is a result of being on the Obagi Nu-Derm Advanced Skin Care Program for the past 10 months. The rose color is the result of increased blood supply to the collagen layer. Darker sun damaged skin has been replaced with a lighter healthier skin, and some generalized tightening of the skin has occurred. At the age of 63, I feel that my skin has a healthy appearance—I no longer consider my old tanned appearance as "looking good"—I am much more pleased with my current skin appearance.

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Before Views
After Views

May you skin be healthy and bright and reflect the radiance of your soul.