This article was originally published in a sponsored newsletter.
As ophthalmologists, we spend years studying all things related to medicine and surgery of the eyes. But as I have worked with my patients, I realized many of them ask about skin care and cosmetics to use around their eyes, which we may not discuss often. I also noticed a disturbing trend: While most people are diligent about their skin care routines and exercise regimens, the majority do not give the same attention to their eye care. In fact, eye care often gets overlooked entirely, despite the fact that the skin around the eyes is one of the most sensitive and vulnerable areas of our face, and it has a direct effect on the health of the ocular surface.
That is why I created Daily Practice by Dr. B—an eye-focused skin care company designed to make eye care a daily part of your wellness routine. Just like we cleanse and moisturize our faces every day, it is essential to have a routine that nurtures and protects the skin around our eyes, which plays such a critical role in our overall health and in how our eyes look and feel. As a cornea specialist, I have seen firsthand how neglecting eye care can lead to allergy, irritation and dry eye disease—an epidemic that affects millions worldwide. The skin around the eyes is highly susceptible to makeup and skin care products, as well as other environmental factors. If the products patients use are not specifically designed with the ocular surface in mind, they can do more harm than good.
Sadly, many people do not know where to turn for safe, effective eye care products. They may go to dermatologists who, while experts in skin, do not always have the depth of understanding of the ocular surface’s delicate balance. Alternatively, people may turn to social media or online influencers for tips and hacks, which can lead to complications or worsen existing issues, such as dry eye disease.
A key motivation behind Daily Practice is the increasing prevalence of dry eye disease. Many of the ingredients found in conventional skin care and makeup can disrupt the natural moisture balance of the ocular surface, leading to irritation and discomfort. The rise in dry eye disease is alarming, and as an ophthalmologist, I see the impact it has on people's quality of life every day. It can cause burning, stinging, blurry vision and even pain. For many, it is exacerbated by using products that were not designed with the eyes in mind. By offering safe, ophthalmologist-tested products, Daily Practice aims to help individuals incorporate eye care into their daily routines in a way that promotes long-term ocular health and overall comfort.
Regardless of what products you recommend to your patients, do your due diligence to ensure they are safe and effective for the skin around the eyes and the ocular surface. It is time to prioritize eye health and make it part of your daily practice.
