A Wren Says

It is peak seasonal allergy torture where I live at the moment. The stuffiness, grogginess, headache, and sore throat are why I just want to stay in bed all day and not get started on things. I feel miserable, but I can’t let my skin suffer as a result. Here’s some skincare advice to help us both get through the season.

1. Stop rubbing your eyes: I know they itch. Mine do, too. Unfortunately, that momentary relief can make your dark circles worse. It can increase the inflammation you’re experiencing and lead to broken blood vessels and hyperpigmentation. On top of that, it can actually make your eyes itchier over time. Resist the urge as best you can.
2. Be gentle: Your eyes are already inflamed. Your nose is already rubbed raw with all those tissues and you just scratching your nose. Your skin is probably going to feel a bit more sensitive right now. Try to use some gentler products that don’t irritate your skin. Or at the very least, avoid putting those powerful actives on those sensitive spots just yet.
3. Baby your eyes: If your eyes or whole face for that matter are puffy, consider applying a cool compress to help. This can be a face towel dipped in ice water that you wring out, a gel mask that you keep in the fridge, or a depuffing face mask if your skin can handle the ingredients. Or consider those cooling globes you can gently glide over your face to get some relief.
4. Consider an eye cream: If you feel like your under-eyes are getting worse with all your symptoms, consider investing in an eye cream formulated to manage your concerns. Is your biggest concern puffiness? Consider a caffeine cream. Hyperpigmentation due to the fact that you are still rubbing and irritating the skin under your eyes? Think of Vitamin C. Or if it’s due to broken blood vessels, consider something with Vitamin K. But whatever the issue, make sure that it is formulated for eyes (DO NOT JUST USE YOUR MOISTURIZER) and potentially for sensitive skin.
5. Stay hydrated: Listen, I know I have no room to tell other people to drink more water, but I’ll advise you anyway. Don’t make it harder on your body than you have to. Drink your water, eat your fruits and vegetables, and try your best to cut out the foods that could be making your inflammation worse. Taking care of your overall health will help you here, too
6. Deal with your symptoms: Truth be told, I would probably feel a lot better if I just invested in an allergy medicine. My eyes wouldn’t itch as much, my face wouldn’t be as puffy, and overall I would just feel better. If you don’t have any contraindications for allergy medicine, invest in one to get your symptoms under control. Your sinuses and your skin will thank you.