They say it’s all in the eyes, and unfortunately this adage holds true when it comes to signs of aging. Since the skin around the eyes is so delicate, it’s one of the first spots to show sun spots and wrinkles. To help you keep your eyes look fresh and youthful, we reached out to Dr. Debra Jaliman, Dermatologist and author of Skin Rules: Trade Secrets from a Top New York Dermatologist, for a few tips on how to rewind the clock (and improve what’s already been done) when it comes to aging eyes.

1.   Love Your Sunglasses

First things, first “Always wear UV 400 sunglasses in the sun,” Jaliman says. Squinting causes crows feet, so prevent those fine lines by covering up. “Also wear sunscreen around your eyes on a daily basis. I recommend a physical sunscreen containing zinc oxide or titanium dioxide with an SPF 30.”

MDC Tip: When it comes to sunscreen, we’re all about SkinCeuticals Ultimate UV Defense SPF 30 and Kiehl’s Vital Sun Protection Lotion SPF 30. 

2.   Double Up On the Pillows

“To avoid puffy under eyes it's best to sleep with two pillows,” Jaliman says. Keeping your head elevated will prevent excess fluid from pooling up under your eyes overnight (um, gross, we know).

3.   Ease Up On the Salt

Put away the Chinese food leftovers. “Certain foods, such as ones that contain a lot of salt, MSG, and artificial sweeteners, can cause swelling so it's best to avoid these,” Jaliman advises.

4.   Cool It

To help reduce swelling and puffiness, Jaliman suggests putting your anti-aging eye product in the refrigerator to cool it down. “You can also ice your eyes with a gel pack when you wake up in the morning. Just make certain that you protect the delicate eye area with cotton between the gel pack and your eyes,” Jaliman suggests. She also suggests reaching for a cup of tea to combat the puff. “I like to take green tea that is cooled down on compresses to use for puffy eyes. The green tea is anti-inflammatory so it takes a lot of the swelling out of the eye area,” Jaliman says.

5.   Apply Daily

The last stop on the road to younger-looking eyes? The right product, used daily. You’ll have the best results with an anti-aging serum or cream that’s formulated just to the eye area. We’re currently loving Vichy LiftActiv Serum 10 Eyes & Lashes, which lifts and firms the eye while also improving lash shine (double the fun, yes please!). This wonder product also packs a bit of illuminating shimmer for an instant radiance boost.

What’s your biggest skincare concern right now? Let us know in the comments and we may feature your question in an upcoming article.

Photo: iStockphoto/Thinkstock