At 54, Michelle Pfieiffer’s peepers look like they have not aged a day past 40. They say the eyes are the gateway to our soul and are very important when making first impressions.

We tend to forget how sensitive and vulnerable the eye area can be, and how many factors play a part in esthetically aging us before our time. Therefore it’s vital that we take preventative measures to protect our eyes, which tends to age faster than any other body part, as the skin is very thin, so any change that happens, happens there more quickly.

According to the latest FACE Report (the only annual Canadian poll conducted by the Legar Marketing group in conjunction with leading cosmetic physicians from across the country), 40% of 800  women over the age of 30 say that it is the eye area that makes them look on average 6 years older than they actually are. 

The culprits? Hormonal changes will lead to sagging in the eye area once you hit 40. Also, the oxidant exposure we get from pollution and from weathering  (wind, heat, cold and sun) along with the simple act of squinting and blinking can add years to your eyes. That’s why wearing sunglasses with a UV coating and taking breaks from looking at computer screens throughout the day is so important. Try the 20-20-20 rule recommended by vision scientists: If your eyes are tired from working at a computer or doing close work, you can follow the 20-20-20 rule: Look up from your work every 20 minutes at an object 20 feet away for 20 seconds.

Another eye-saving habit to start doing is applying sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30 in around the sensitive eye area. “It will help minimize photo aging significantly,” says Toronto-based dermatologist Dr. Lisa Kellett, M.D., F.R.C.P.(C), D.A.B.D.

Starting early prevention from a young age by moisturizing the skin and using antioxidant products will improve the surface of the skin drastically. Dr. Lisa Kellett says this will also increase collagen formation, which protects and supports the underlying components of the skin around the eyes.

“The most important thing I tell (my patients) is that there’s no use in treating them with anything if they’re not going to protect it,” says Kellett, a dermatologist at DLK on Avenue in Toronto. “Sleep is important, and having a good diet is also important because your skin is the largest, and as dermatologists, we think the most important organ of the body, and whatever you take in, in terms of your nutrition, will be reflected in your skin.” Foods that have been shown to be great for the health of your eyes include: carrots, sweet potatoes, bell peppers, broccoli, and turkey.

Kellett recommends using products that contain at least 1% retinol, an ingredient that has been shown to promote collagen regeneration. Plus a good eye cream that’s not too rich is essential, as it will also act as a protective barrier to the skin.

“Remember that when you’re conversing with someone, people look to your eyes as a sign of sincerity and trustworthiness,” she says. “When you talk to someone, a lot of it is not only in what they’re saying but the cues they are giving off. Looking someone in the eye is so important because it tells us if we can trust someone or not — the eyes are huge in making first impressions.”

Show your peepers some TLC today so you can always have a youthful gaze like the original Ms. Cat Woman.

Check out her eyes 20 years ago!

Wrinkles