This guide covers why lines show up under the eyes first, what common eye cream ingredients are there for, how to apply one, and how long to give it. If puffiness is more your concern than lines, start with our guide to eye care mistakes that work against your cream.

Why do wrinkles show up under the eyes first?

Because the skin there is some of the thinnest on your body, and it works hard every day. A few things add up:

• Thin skin. In a study of 452 skin samples from 28 body sites in Korean adults, eyelid skin was among the thinnest, at about 0.5 to 0.6 mm, compared with about 2 mm on the back (Lee and Hwang, 2002).
• Sun. The sun's rays make skin age faster, an effect dermatologists call photoaging. The American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) says sunglasses help reduce fine lines around the eyes (AAD).
• Dryness. Skin gets drier as we age, and that's when fine lines start to show (AAD).
• Smoking. It can lead to dull, dry skin and early lines and wrinkles (AAD).

For more on how skin changes over time, see our guide to the signs of aging.

What can an eye cream actually do for under-eye wrinkles?

Mostly, it adds moisture, and moisture changes how lines look. Mayo Clinic explains that moisturizers temporarily plump the skin, which makes lines less visible (Mayo Clinic). The AAD says a moisturizer can plump up fine lines within a few days (AAD).

Here's the honest version, side by side:

Table sources: Mayo Clinic and the AAD.

There's a legal line here, too. The FDA says a product meant to make lines less noticeable by moisturizing is a cosmetic, while one meant to remove wrinkles or change how skin makes collagen is a drug (FDA). So an honest cosmetic eye cream talks about how your skin looks, not about changing it.

Which eye cream ingredients are worth knowing?

You'll see the same handful of ingredient types over and over. Here's what each is there for.

Price isn't a good guide. Mayo Clinic notes that an expensive wrinkle cream may not work better than a less expensive one (Mayo Clinic), and the AAD says there are effective, affordable products in regular store aisles (AAD).

How do you apply cream for under-eye wrinkles?

Gently, and in the right order. The AAD's order is cleanser, then any treatment, then moisturizer and sunscreen, then makeup (AAD). For the eye area:

1. Wash your face with a gentle cleanser and pat dry.
2. Use your ring finger. The AAD says it's the weakest finger, so it won't pull too hard on the delicate skin around your eyes (AAD).
3. Tap a small amount along the orbital bone under your eye. Don't rub, and keep it out of the eye itself.
4. Finish with sunscreen in the morning. The AAD recommends broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher every day (AAD).

Start with one new product at a time. Using several products for the look of aging at once can irritate skin, and irritated skin looks older (AAD). Test it on your inner forearm twice a day for 4 to 5 days first, and stop if it stings or burns. Our guide to trying new skin care products walks through it.

How long does an eye cream take to work?

A few days for the plumping look of moisture, and at least six weeks for most other products. The AAD says it can sometimes take three months (AAD). Keep using it if you like what you see, because the look fades when you stop.

What helps under-eye skin more than any cream?

Sunscreen. In a 4.5-year trial of 903 adults under 55 in Australia, the group that used broad-spectrum sunscreen daily showed no detectable increase in skin aging, and their skin aged 24% less than the group that used it whenever they chose (Hughes et al., 2013).

The AAD and Mayo Clinic add a few more habits:

• Wear sunglasses and a wide-brimmed hat outside (AAD).
• Skip tanning, from the sun or a tanning bed (AAD).
• Moisturize every day (AAD).
• Don't smoke (Mayo Clinic).
• Get enough sleep (AAD).

We cover more everyday habits in how to look after your skin as it ages. If you want bigger changes than a cream can give, a board-certified dermatologist can talk you through prescription creams, injections, chemical peels, microneedling and laser therapy (Mayo Clinic).

Where does Luma Lift fit?

Luma Lift eye cream is a lightweight, clear gel that goes on top of your regular eye cream or moisturizer. As it dries, you'll feel it tighten, a temporary effect that helps smooth the look of fine lines and crow's feet. Per its product page, it contains sodium hyaluronate for hydration, three peptides (acetyl hexapeptide-8, acetyl octapeptide-3 and palmitoyl tripeptide-1), and acai, perilla, white oak bark and Irish moss extracts.

Read with the table above: the sodium hyaluronate is the moisture part, and the peptides are there for a smoother look. Tap a very small amount over your eye cream with your ring finger, patch test first, and keep it out of your eyes. Our Luma Lift how-to has the full steps. You'll find it with our other eye products in eye care. Individual results vary.

FAQ

What is the best cream for under-eye wrinkles?

There isn't one best cream for everyone. Look for one made for the eye area, with a moisturizing ingredient like hyaluronic acid and a full ingredient list. Use it with daily sunscreen, and give it at least six weeks.

Do eye wrinkle creams actually work?

They can make fine lines look softer, mostly by adding moisture. Mayo Clinic says the improvements are usually small and fade when you stop. They won't give results like a dermatologist's procedures.

Why are my under eyes so wrinkly all of a sudden?

Dryness is a common reason, since fine lines show more on dry skin. A new product can play a part, too: the AAD says irritated skin makes signs of aging more noticeable. If the change comes with swelling, redness or itching, stop new products and see a doctor.

Can I use retinol under my eyes?

Some eye creams contain retinol, but it can irritate the thin skin there, and Mayo Clinic says not to use it during pregnancy. Start slowly and stop if it stings. Ask a dermatologist if you're unsure.

Can you get rid of under-eye wrinkles naturally?

You can help them look softer. Moisturize daily, wear sunscreen and sunglasses, don't smoke and get enough sleep. These habits protect the skin around your eyes, but they won't make existing lines disappear.

Should eye cream go on before or after moisturizer?

The AAD's order is cleanser, then any treatment, then moisturizer and sunscreen. Luma Lift is different: it goes on top of your regular eye cream or moisturizer.

Luma by Laura makes and sells Luma Lift, the eye cream mentioned in this article.

This comparison answers one question: how do the three options compare on cost, upkeep and the look each one gives? If you want help choosing or using a serum itself, read our guide to choosing a lash serum.

What do lash serum, extensions and falsies cost over time?

The exact salon and strip lash prices vary by city and brand, so this table uses the one figure we can verify on our own store: Luma Lash at $29.99 as of October 2026. The pattern, though, is consistent. A serum spreads its cost across weeks of nightly use. Extensions concentrate cost into appointments that repeat for as long as you keep them. Falsies look cheap per pair, and they are, until you add up daily wear across a month, plus the glue, the spare pairs in your bag, and the pairs that lift at the corner by midday.

For a simple yearly view, think in habits rather than receipts. If you wear falsies most days, you are buying them most weeks. If you keep extensions, you are booking fills most months. If you use a serum, you are buying a tube when the last one finishes, and your daily mascara, if you wear it, goes on top as usual.

How much upkeep does each option need?

A serum needs consistency, not appointments. The Luma Lash directions on the product page are plain: remove liner, mascara and other eye products, cleanse your face, then use the applicator brush to apply a thin line to the base of the upper lashes, starting at the inner corner and moving outward. Use it nightly before bed. You can also apply it in the morning before makeup, once the skin is clean and the serum has dried. That is the whole routine. There is no glue, no drying time on a lash strip, and no salon chair.

Extensions need the most upkeep of the three. They are applied lash by lash at a salon, and they shed with your natural lash cycle, which is why fills exist. Between appointments you have to be careful with rubbing, oil based removers and sleeping face down, because the look depends on keeping the applied lashes in place. When you stop, you either book a removal or wait for the last extensions to shed.

Falsies need upkeep every wear, but none between wears. You trim the strip if needed, apply glue, wait for it to get tacky, place the strip, then remove it gently at night and clean the band if you plan to reuse the pair. The skill improves with practice, and the first few applications usually take the longest. The trade off is that the work resets to zero each morning. Nothing carries over.

What look does each option give?

A conditioning serum gives the most natural look of the three, because the lashes are your own. Luma Lash is made to help lashes look longer, fuller and healthier, so you can reach for falsies less often, in the words of its own product page. Its conditioning ingredients include glycerin and panthenol, which help keep lashes moisturized and soft, and peptides, which condition lash strands so they feel less brittle. Red grape stem cell extract is listed as a plant derived conditioning ingredient. The look builds with consistent use, and individual results vary. It is a cosmetic conditioning serum, not a drug or a treatment, and it is intended to improve the look and feel of lashes and brows.

Extensions give the most dramatic and most finished look, including on days when you wear no mascara at all. You choose the length, curl and fullness with your technician, and you wake up with that look already in place. The limit is that the look is fixed between appointments. As extensions shed unevenly, the line can look patchy before a fill, and a style that suited a holiday week may feel like a lot for a quiet week at home.

Falsies give the most flexible look. A natural strip for daytime, a fuller strip for photos, wispy corners for a softer effect: you can change the look daily because nothing is attached for more than the day. The limit is realism and wear time. A strip sits on top of your lash line, and up close, or after hours of wear, that can show. Glue choice, placement and how carefully you remove them all affect how the look holds up.

Which option suits which routine?

Choose a serum if you want a low maintenance base you control at home, you prefer your own lashes, and you are happy to apply a product nightly. It also suits people who found daily falsies tiring, which is the exact position on the Luma Lash product page: tired of wearing false eyelashes every day.

Choose extensions if you want the fullest look with no daily application, you can keep regular salon appointments, and you are comfortable with the care rules between fills.

Choose falsies if you want lashes for occasions rather than every day, you like changing the look, or you want to test a fuller style before committing to anything longer term.

You can also combine options: a serum as the daily base, falsies for events, and extensions only for a specific season. That works because the three products do different jobs. If you combine them, follow each product's own directions, keep applicators clean, and stop using any product if irritation occurs. The FDA notes that eyelash adhesives and extensions can cause irritation or allergic reactions in some people, so a patch test before a first salon set or a new glue is sensible.

Where does Luma Lash fit in this comparison?

Luma Lash is the serum option in this comparison: $29.99 as of October 2026, 5 ml, made in the USA in a GMP certified facility, and cruelty free, per its product page. It works on brows too: the product page gives brow directions. Its ingredient notes, including glycerin, panthenol and peptides, are explained in plain cosmetic language in the Skincare Ingredient Notes.

To be clear about what it is not: Luma Lash is a leave on conditioning serum for the lashes and brows. It conditions each lash from the base so lashes look thicker and more defined, per the product page. It does not promise a salon result overnight, and it should not be compared to extensions as if the two were the same service. The comparison is about cost, upkeep and look, and on upkeep and yearly cost, a home serum is the simpler option for most routines.

FAQ

How much does a lash serum cost compared with extensions?

As of October 2026, Luma Lash costs $29.99 for a 5 ml tube on lumabylaura.com. Extensions are priced by salons, with a full set plus regular fills, so their yearly cost is usually far higher, though it varies by city and style. Falsies cost the least per pair but add up with daily wear.

Can you wear mascara with a lash serum?

Yes. The Luma Lash product page says you can apply the serum in the morning before makeup, let it dry, then apply makeup as usual. At night, remove all eye makeup before applying the serum to clean lids.

How long do falsies last compared with a serum routine?

A pair of falsies lasts for the wear, and some pairs can be reused if you remove and store them carefully. A serum routine is ongoing: you apply it nightly, and the conditioned look is maintained while you keep using it consistently. Individual results vary.

Does a conditioning serum work on brows as well?

Luma Lash does. Its full name is Luma Lash Eyelash & Brow Conditioning Serum, and the product page gives brow directions: apply a small amount to the base of the brows and sweep in a vertical motion.

What should you do if a lash product irritates your eyes?

Stop using it. The Luma Lash page advises avoiding direct contact with the eyes, and if irritation occurs, stop using it and consult a doctor. That advice applies to any lash product, including glues for falsies.

Luma by Laura makes and sells Luma Lash, the serum mentioned in this article.

This guide covers what those ingredients are there for, how to read a serum's ingredient list, how lashes and brows differ, and the basics of using one. If you're still deciding which kind of lash serum to buy, start with our guide to choosing a lash serum.

What's in an eyelash and eyebrow serum?

Lash and brow serums fall into two families: those with a prostaglandin analog and those without one (Baiyasi et al., 2024). Here are the ingredient types you'll see most often and what each one is there for.

Table sources: Baiyasi et al., 2024, the American Academy of Ophthalmology, and the Personal Care Products Council's CosmeticsInfo pages on glycerin and phenoxyethanol.

Two things to know about that table. First, the conditioning ingredients are there for how lashes and brows look and feel. The 2024 review gave peptides, panthenol, ginseng and pumpkin seed oil its lowest evidence grade for lashes, because adequate eyelash studies don't exist yet (Baiyasi et al.).

Second, the prostaglandin analogs are a different kind of ingredient. The AAO says isopropyl cloprostenate, which shows up in some over-the-counter serums, isn't FDA-approved and hasn't been tested by the FDA. It also lists possible effects of the prescription drug, including red eyes, darker eyelid skin and iris darkening that can be irreversible (AAO).

How do you read a lash serum ingredient label?

Read it from the top down. In the U.S., cosmetics sold to consumers must list their ingredients, and a product without that list is misbranded (FDA). A few rules make the list easier to decode:

1. The first ingredient is the main one. Ingredients are listed in descending order of how much is in the product (21 CFR 701.3). In a water-based serum, that's water.
2. The tail end is loose. Ingredients at 1% or less can be listed in any order after the rest, so you can't rank the last few by amount (21 CFR 701.3).
3. "Active ingredients" means drug. A product that's both a cosmetic and a drug lists its drug ingredients first as "Active Ingredients," followed by everything else as "Inactive Ingredients" (FDA).
4. Scan for "prost." The prostaglandin analogs named in the 2024 review, from bimatoprost and latanoprost to isopropyl cloprostenate, all have those letters in their names (Baiyasi et al.).
5. Read the claims, too. Under U.S. law, a product's intended use decides whether it's a cosmetic or a drug, and the FDA gives claims to "restore hair growth" as an example of a drug claim (FDA). A cosmetic serum should talk about how lashes look, not promise to change the hairs themselves.

Can you use lash serum on your eyebrows?

Yes, if the serum's directions include brows. If the label only mentions lashes, or it's a prescription lash product, use it only as directed.

Lashes and brows are both short hairs, but they don't behave the same way:

• Lashes have an active phase of about 4 to 10 weeks, and a full cycle takes about 4 to 11 months (Baiyasi et al.).
• Brows have an active phase of about 2 to 3 months, followed by a resting phase of about 2 to 3 months. Compare that with scalp hair, whose active phase lasts 2 to 8 years, which is why brows and lashes stay so much shorter (Nguyen et al., 2023).
• Brow skin is thin and delicate and easily damaged, and daily plucking can cause scarring (Cleveland Clinic).

Sparse brows aren't always about grooming. Thyroid conditions and anemia can thin brows (Cleveland Clinic), and losing the outer third of the brow can be a sign of an underactive thyroid (Nguyen et al.). If that sounds like you, see a doctor before reaching for a serum.

How do you use an eyelash and eyebrow serum?

Follow the directions on your product. As an example, here's how Luma Lash's directions put it.

For lashes:

1. Remove all eye makeup and cleanse.
2. Brush a thin line along the base of the upper lashes, from the inner corner outward, as close to the lash line as you can.
3. Use it nightly before bed, or in the morning before makeup. Let it dry before you apply anything else.

For brows: start at the base of the brow and use a vertical sweep, as needed.

A few habits apply to any eye-area product. Wash your hands first, don't share it, and skip it if you have an eye infection or the skin around your eyes is inflamed (FDA). Keep the serum out of the eye itself, and stop using it if it irritates.

How long before you see a difference?

Plan on a couple of months. Because lashes and brows cycle slowly, any change in how they look will be gradual. For overplucked brows, the Cleveland Clinic says to be patient for a few months and to see a dermatologist if nothing has changed after about four months (Cleveland Clinic).

A conditioning serum works on the lashes and brows you already have, so think of it as part of a routine, like a conditioner for your hair. Results vary from person to person.

Who should check with a doctor first?

Check with a doctor before you try a serum if:

• You have an eye condition, such as glaucoma or eye inflammation. The AAO advises asking your ophthalmologist before using a lash drug like Latisse (AAO).
• Your lashes or brows thinned suddenly or in patches, which can have medical causes (Nguyen et al.).
• A product irritated your eyes and the irritation doesn't go away after you stop (FDA).

If your skin is sensitive, a patch test helps. Our guide to trying new skin care products walks through it.

Where does Luma Lash fit?

Luma Lash eyelash and brow serum is in the no-prostaglandin family. Per its label, the ingredients are: Purified Water (Aqua), Myristoyl Pentapeptide-17, Cellulose Gum, Glycerin, Sodium PCA, Panthenol, Calcium Pantothenate, Vitis Vinifera (Grape) Fruit Cell Extract, Phenoxyethanol and Ethylhexylglycerin.

Read with the rules above: water comes first, the peptide and glycerin do the conditioning, and phenoxyethanol is the preservative. There's no "prost" name and no fragrance listed. It's prostaglandin-free, per Luma by Laura and the published ingredient label.

The directions cover both lashes and brows. It comes in a 5 ml tube with a fine brush, and it's made in the USA and cruelty free (here's why we care about cruelty-free skin care). It's made to help lashes and brows look longer and fuller, and results vary.

FAQ

Can I use brow serum as a lash serum?

Only if its directions include the lash line. The FDA advises using only products intended for the eye area near your eyes. A serum labeled "lash and brow" is made for both.

What is the best serum for eyebrows?

There's no single best one. Look for a serum whose directions include brows, with a full ingredient list and no ingredients you've reacted to before. Then give it a few months, since brows cycle slowly.

How can I make my lashes look fuller?

For today, mascara and a lash curler change how lashes look right away. A conditioning serum works more slowly: use it nightly for a couple of months, and expect a gradual change in how your lashes look and feel.

How long does a lash and brow serum take to work?

Give it at least a couple of months. A lash's active phase lasts about 4 to 10 weeks and a brow's about 2 to 3 months, so any change shows up gradually.

Is castor oil good for eyelashes?

Castor oil is a popular ingredient in vegan lash serums, but a 2024 review found too few studies to say whether it does anything for lashes. If you use any oil or serum near your eyes, choose one made for the eye area.

Should you put lash serum on your lower lashes?

Follow your product's directions. Luma Lash's directions say to apply it along the base of the upper lashes only.

Luma by Laura makes and sells Luma Lash, the serum mentioned in this article.

Luma Lift Instant Eye Lift Cream by Luma by Laura is a lightweight, clear gel-textured cosmetic eye product made to leave the skin around the eyes looking smoother, more lifted and more rested. How you apply it makes a difference, so this guide walks through each step. Individual results vary.

What You Need

• A gentle cleanser
• Your usual eye cream, serum or moisturizer
• Luma Lift Instant Eye Lift Cream
• Clean hands

How to Apply Luma Lift, Step by Step

1. Cleanse. Wash your eyes and face with a gentle cleanser and pat dry.
2. Apply your usual eye product. Smooth your favorite eye cream, serum or moisturizer around the eyes. Luma Lift is designed to go on top of it, not to replace it.
3. Take a very small amount. A little goes a long way on the delicate skin around the eyes.
4. Tap, do not rub. Use a fingertip (the ring finger presses the lightest) and gently tap Luma Lift on top of the product you already applied. Stay on the bone around the eye and keep it out of the eyes themselves.
5. Let it dry thoroughly. As both products dry you will feel a tightening effect. This is the temporary, cosmetic lifted feel the formula is designed to create.

Always do a patch test first, and stop using the product if irritation occurs. For external use only. Avoid direct contact with the eyes and mouth, and keep out of reach of children.

Tips for Getting the Best Experience

• Start with less. Too much product can feel heavy and take longer to dry.
• Layer in order. Apply your regular eye product first and Luma Lift last. For more on common routine slip-ups, see eye care mistakes that hold back your eye cream.
• Morning and evening. The label says Luma Lift may be used morning and evening or as needed, as part of your regular skincare routine. The lifted feel is temporary, and how long you notice it depends on your skin, the environment and what you layer it with.
• Check the basics. Puffiness can also be linked to sleep, allergies and diet. Our guide to puffy eyes covers the everyday causes.

What Is in Luma Lift?

Luma Lift combines peptides, hyaluronic acid and botanical extracts:

• Sodium hyaluronate, a form of hyaluronic acid, helps the skin around the eyes hold moisture so it looks smoother and plumper.
• Peptides (acetyl hexapeptide-8, acetyl octapeptide-3 and palmitoyl tripeptide-1) are used in eye-area skincare to help skin look smoother and firmer.
• Botanical extracts (acai fruit, perilla, white oak bark and Irish moss) condition and soften the skin. White oak bark also gives a slightly tightening feel.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does the instant lift effect last?

Luma Lift creates a temporary tightening feel as it dries. How long you notice it depends on your skin, the environment and the products you layer it with.

Can I use Luma Lift with my other skincare?

Yes. Apply your favorite eye cream, serum or moisturizer first, then tap a very small amount of Luma Lift on top.

Will it help with puffy eyes and dark circles?

Luma Lift hydrates the delicate skin around the eyes and helps reduce the look of puffiness and dark circles. Puffy eyes can also be linked to sleep, allergies and diet, so results vary from person to person.

What is an instant eye lift cream?

It is a cosmetic product that gives the skin around the eyes a smoother, firmer look soon after application, using ingredients such as peptides and hyaluronic acid. The effect is temporary and cosmetic.

Shop Luma Lift Instant Eye Lift Cream

Below: how to use a cold compress step by step, what to use if you don't have a washcloth handy, the everyday habits that make puffiness less likely, and the signs that mean it's time to see a doctor instead.

How do you use a cold compress for puffy eyes?

The Mayo Clinic and the American Academy of Ophthalmology (AAO) describe the same simple method (Mayo Clinic; AAO):

1. Start clean. Wash your hands and use a clean washcloth.
2. Wet it with cool water and wring it out so it isn't dripping.
3. Sit upright. Both sources suggest sitting up while you do this.
4. Hold it under and around your eyes for a few minutes, with light pressure. The AAO says to keep the pressure very gentle.
5. Re-wet the cloth when it warms up, then pat your skin dry when you're done.

That's it. You don't need anything fancy, and a few minutes is enough.

What can you use as a cold compress?

Anything cold and clean works, as long as there's a layer between ice and your skin.

Table sources: Cleveland Clinic, Johns Hopkins Medicine and the AAO.

The cloth matters with ice. The AAO says wrapping ice or frozen vegetables in cloth protects your skin from freezing. And skip the old movie trick of putting a raw steak on your eye: the AAO says there's no scientific basis for it, and bacteria in raw meat carry a high risk of infection.

Why does a cold compress help puffy eyes?

Puffiness happens when fluid builds up in the thin layers of tissue around your eyes and eyelids (Cleveland Clinic). Cold helps because it narrows blood vessels. In Cleveland Clinic's words, "The cold will help restrict blood vessels and reduce swelling."

Johns Hopkins Medicine explains it the same way: cold reduces blood flow to the area, which lessens swelling. It also notes that quick fixes like this reduce swelling until it goes down on its own over the day. So think of a compress as a head start, not a lasting change.

Should you use a warm or cold compress on swollen eyes?

For everyday puffiness, use cold. The AAO also suggests cool compresses to ease the discomfort of pink eye (AAO).

Warm compresses are for a different problem. The AAO recommends a warm washcloth for a stye, which is a tender red bump at the edge of the eyelid. If you're not sure why your eye is swollen, or one eyelid has a sore bump, check with a doctor before you reach for either.

What causes puffy eyes in the morning?

Fluid can build up around your eyes while you sleep, which is why puffiness is often worst when you wake up. A few things make it more likely:

• Salt. Salt makes your body hold on to water, which can show up as puffy eyes (Cleveland Clinic).
• Short sleep. A late night can leave you with puffy eyes the next morning (Cleveland Clinic).
• Allergies. The AAO lists feather pillows, pets on the bed and products you put on before sleep as possible triggers (AAO).
• Smoking. Cleveland Clinic notes it can lead to collagen loss and thinner skin around the eyes.
• Age and family history. These cause eye bags rather than day-to-day puffiness (more on that below).

Johns Hopkins also mentions medical conditions, such as thyroid problems, as a possible cause (Johns Hopkins Medicine). That's one more reason to get swelling that won't settle checked.

How can you keep puffy eyes from coming back?

The Mayo Clinic, the AAO and Cleveland Clinic agree on the same everyday habits:

• Drink less right before bed, and limit salty food.
• Sleep seven to nine hours a night.
• Raise your head slightly with an extra pillow, so fluid is less likely to collect around your eyes.
• Keep allergies in check. Cleveland Clinic says antihistamine eye drops only help if allergies are the cause.
• Don't rub your eyes. The AAO lists heavy eyelid rubbing as a habit to avoid.
• Take out contact lenses if your eyes or eyelids swell (Cleveland Clinic).

If you suspect a product, Cleveland Clinic suggests stopping your eye makeup and eye creams for a couple of weeks to see whether the swelling improves.

What should you avoid putting on puffy eyes?

Skip hemorrhoid cream. It's a social media trend, but Cleveland Clinic dermatology resident Angela Wei, MD, doesn't recommend it around the eyes. She explains that hydrocortisone used for long periods can thin or discolor the skin, and that it can irritate or damage your eye if it gets in. Johns Hopkins also urges caution with these creams.

The same goes for steroid eye drops: use them only if a doctor prescribed them for you. Cleveland Clinic ophthalmologist Annapurna Singh, MD, warns that if they're used for the wrong condition, "it could actually harm and blind you."

Is it puffy eyes or eye bags?

Puffiness comes and goes. It's often worse in the morning or after a salty meal, and it usually settles during the day. Bags that are there every day, even after a good night's sleep, are more likely from aging: the tissue that supports the eyelids weakens, and fat can move into the lower lids (Mayo Clinic). A compress won't change those. Our guide to the best eye cream for under-eye bags explains the difference and what a cream can and can't do.

When should you see a doctor about puffy eyes?

See an eye doctor if the swelling lasts more than a day or two. "Any swelling that lasts longer than 24 to 48 hours should send you to an eye care professional because there are times it can be something severe that can blind you," says Dr. Singh (Cleveland Clinic).

Also get checked if the swelling is painful, itchy or red, or if you notice blurry or double vision, floaters, eye pain or a feeling that something is stuck in your eye (AAO; AAO home remedies).

Where does Luma Lift fit?

A cold compress takes care of the swelling. Luma Lift instant eye lift cream is what you can put on afterward for the look of the eye area. Pat your skin dry, apply your usual eye cream or moisturizer, then tap a very small amount of Luma Lift on top with your ring finger. As it dries, it gives a temporary tightening feel that helps smooth the look of fine lines and puffiness.

Its listed key ingredients include sodium hyaluronate for hydration, three peptides and white oak bark, acai and perilla extracts. Caffeine isn't one of them.

It's a cosmetic, so it works on how the area looks, and the effect is temporary. Results vary. Do a patch test first (our tips for trying new skin care products walk you through it), keep it out of your eyes, and skip eye products when the skin around your eyes is inflamed or you have an eye infection, as the FDA advises. Our step-by-step guide shows how to apply Luma Lift, and the rest of our eye care range is here.

FAQ

Does cold reduce puffy eyes?

Yes, for a while. Cold narrows blood vessels and reduces blood flow to the area, which helps swelling go down. Cleveland Clinic and Johns Hopkins Medicine both recommend a cool compress for puffy eyes.

How long should you leave a cold compress on puffy eyes?

A few minutes is enough. The Mayo Clinic and the AAO both suggest holding a cool, damp washcloth under and around your eyes for a few minutes, with gentle pressure, while you sit up.

What is the best cold compress for puffy eyes?

A clean washcloth soaked in cool water is the simplest and gentlest. Chilled spoons, chilled tea bags or an ice pack wrapped in a towel also work. Pick whatever is clean and cold, and wrap anything frozen in a cloth.

Do cold spoons work for puffy eyes?

They can. Johns Hopkins Medicine and Cleveland Clinic both list refrigerated spoons as a cold compress. Rest the backs of the spoons over your closed eyes for a few minutes.

Can you put ice directly on your eyes?

No. Wrap ice or frozen vegetables in a towel or cloth first. The AAO says the cloth protects your skin from freezing.

How do you depuff your eyes quickly in the morning?

Use a cool compress for a few minutes while sitting up, then pat dry. To make mornings easier, cut back on salt and drinks before bed, sleep seven to nine hours and add an extra pillow.

Luma by Laura makes and sells Luma Lift, the eye cream mentioned in this article.

Can you prevent aging? No product or habit can stop aging, but you can take steps to help your skin look healthier and feel better for longer. The most useful are daily sunscreen, not smoking, limiting alcohol, a balanced diet, regular movement and a consistent moisturizing routine. These tips do not replace medical care.

Avoiding Smoking and Drinking

If you want to live a long and healthy life, avoiding smoking and limiting alcohol can make a big difference. Research links cigarette smoking and heavy alcohol consumption to premature skin aging, and both are linked to a higher risk of heart disease, lung disease and cancer. If you smoke or drink heavily, talk to your doctor about support to cut back or quit.

Changing Lifestyle Habits

No method can stop aging, but healthy habits can help you feel better as the years go by. It does not have to mean a fad diet or an extreme workout. Aim for a routine that works for you and is enjoyable.

Research on large groups of people has linked healthy habits, such as not smoking, eating a plant-rich diet and exercising regularly, with better health later in life. Genetics also plays a role in aging, so be kind to yourself and focus on what you can control.

Protecting Skin from the Sun

One of the most important things you can do for your skin is to use sunscreen. Apply a generous amount, and wear protective clothing, sunglasses and a hat. Limit your time in direct sun during peak UV hours, generally between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., and seek shade when you can.

UV exposure adds up over time, and it is a major contributor to visible skin aging, such as lines and uneven tone. Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen, which covers both UVA and UVB rays, with an SPF of 30 or higher. Apply it liberally and reapply after swimming or sweating.

Using Skin Care Products

A consistent routine with a gentle cleanser, moisturizer and sunscreen helps skin stay hydrated, and well-moisturized skin looks smoother. Many people include products with antioxidants as well. You can start a simple routine in your twenties, and give any new product several weeks of regular use before judging it.

Using Aloe Vera

Aloe vera gel is a popular moisturizing ingredient that can leave skin feeling soft and hydrated. It is best as one part of a routine that includes sun protection and healthy habits. Patch test first, as some people are sensitive to it.

Using Vitamin C

Vitamin C is an antioxidant commonly used in skin care. Products with vitamin C may help skin look brighter and more even. Formulas vary in strength and stability, and vitamin C can degrade when exposed to light and air, so store it as directed. Choose products from reputable makers rather than homemade mixtures, and patch test before regular use.

Using Antioxidants

Antioxidants are compounds that help neutralize free radicals, which are unstable molecules produced by things like sunlight, pollution and smoke. Antioxidants are found in many fruits, vegetables, nuts and whole grains as well as in skin care products. A varied, colorful diet is a good way to get them. Using them in skin care is a popular part of a routine, but they work best alongside sunscreen, not instead of it.

Ask your doctor or dermatologist about any specific concerns.

Browse Luma by Laura skincare

What are the first signs of aging? The first signs usually appear in the late twenties and thirties and often include fine lines, dark circles or puffiness around the eyes, drier or less firm-looking skin, and gray hair. Aging is natural, and sun protection, moisturizer and healthy habits help skin look its best.

Gray hair

Gray hair is a common sign of aging. Some people start graying young, but for most of us it begins in middle age. Genetics play a big role.

Droopy eyelids

Droopy eyelids are common with age and can affect the look of your eyes and sometimes your vision. If your lids are drooping, see an eye doctor, since there are medical options.

Ptosis repair is a surgical procedure that raises the lid. It can be done under local or general anesthesia. Insurance may cover it when the condition affects vision, so ask your ophthalmologist.

Lines on the forehead

Lines on the forehead are one of the most visible signs of aging. A dermatologist can discuss in-office options, such as botulinum toxin (Botox), which works by relaxing the muscles in the forehead. Results are temporary and typically last about three to four months.

Saggy skin

Skin naturally loses some firmness with age. Moisturizing daily, wearing sunscreen and eating a diet rich in fruits and vegetables help skin look its best. Collagen supplements are popular, but the evidence is mixed, so ask your doctor before trying one.

Dark circles under the eyes

Dark circles are often linked to aging, but they also have other causes. Lack of sleep, diet, sun exposure, allergies and genetics can all contribute to how they look. Learn more in our how to reduce puffy eyes article.

A moisturizing eye cream can help the area look smoother and more refreshed. Luma Lift is made for the delicate skin around the eyes. If dark circles appear suddenly or are very pronounced, talk to a doctor.

Fine lines on the forehead

Fine lines on the forehead are a common sign of aging. A dermatologist can discuss in-office treatments, and daily sunscreen and moisturizer help skin look smoother.

Saggy skin under the chin

Aging affects skin, muscle, and fat. They can lose tone and fullness, which can make skin under the chin look loose.

Double chin

A double chin is common, and genetics often play a part. If it bothers you, a dermatologist or other qualified medical professional can talk through options. Get more tips in our active participant in your anti-aging process article.

Shop Luma Lift eye cream

What is the best way to care for aging hands? Wear sunscreen on your hands daily, moisturize after washing, and use a gentle hand cream. Hands show age early because they are exposed to sun, water, soap and weather, and consistent care helps them look smoother and feel softer.

Whether you are a skincare enthusiast or a complete newbie, you probably want healthy, comfortable-looking skin. Our hands are often one of the first places aging shows, since they work hard every day.

Why Hand Care Matters

Our hands face a lot: dirt, frequent washing, harsh soaps, sun exposure, and changing humidity. Over time, this can leave them looking dry, thin and lined.

No product can reverse aging, but consistent care can help hands look smoother and feel more comfortable. It only takes a little time in your routine.

What Helps Aging Hands

Sunscreen is the most useful step. Apply a broad-spectrum SPF to the backs of your hands every morning and reapply when you can. UV exposure is a major contributor to visible skin aging, including lines and uneven tone on the hands.

Next, moisturize. Look for hand creams with ingredients such as glycerin, hyaluronic acid, shea butter or jojoba oil. Humectants such as hyaluronic acid draw moisture to the skin, and oils and butters help hold it in, which helps hands feel soft and look smoother. Apply after washing and before bed.

For Age Spots on Hands

Dark spots on the hands are common and are mostly linked to sun exposure over the years. Daily sunscreen helps keep them from becoming more noticeable. If you see a spot that is changing in size, shape or color, or is bleeding, have a dermatologist check it.

For Dry Hands

Frequent washing can leave hands dry, rough and tight, and age makes it more noticeable. Use lukewarm water, a gentle soap, and a rich hand cream right after washing. Keep a small tube nearby to reapply. If your skin cracks, bleeds or itches constantly, see a doctor, as it may need medical care.

For Wrinkled Hands

Hands lose some plumpness and firmness with age, so lines and visible veins become more noticeable. Moisturizing can temporarily make the skin look smoother, and sunscreen helps protect against further sun exposure. For options such as in-office procedures, talk to a dermatologist.

With consistent sun protection and moisturizing, your hands can look and feel their best.

Browse Luma by Laura skincare

That's the honest version, and it's why so many people feel let down by eye creams. Below: what causes bags, what a cream can and can't do, the ingredients worth looking for, and seven mistakes that hold even a good cream back.

What causes bags under your eyes?

Most under-eye bags come from aging tissue, fluid, or both. As we get older, the tissues and muscles that support the eyelids weaken, and fat that normally sits around the eye can move into the lower lids. Fluid can also collect in that area, especially after waking up or after a salty meal (Mayo Clinic; American Academy of Ophthalmology).

The American Academy of Ophthalmology also lists lack of sleep, not drinking enough water, smoking, alcohol, allergies and family history as things that can make bags more noticeable. The good news: bags under the eyes are usually harmless and mostly a cosmetic concern.

Can an eye cream get rid of under-eye bags?

No, not if the bag is fat that has shifted forward. Johns Hopkins Medicine notes that home remedies and over-the-counter products can only do so much. Facial plastic surgeon Kofi Boahene, MD, puts it this way: "To effectively get rid of under-eye bags that are prominent and permanent, medical treatment is oftentimes necessary" (Johns Hopkins Medicine).

What a cream can do is change how the area looks and feels: hydrated skin looks smoother, a caffeine product can make morning puffiness look calmer for a while, and some formulas dry to a firm, tightening feel. There's a legal line here, too. Under U.S. law, a product meant to affect the structure of the body is a drug, not a cosmetic (FDA). So be wary of any cosmetic cream that promises to remove bags for good.

What should you look for in an eye cream for bags?

Look for ingredients that match the kind of puffiness you have. Here's a quick guide.

Table sources: Johns Hopkins Medicine, the AAO on moisturizers, and the AAD on fragrance.

Which eye cream mistakes should you avoid?

These seven habits hold back even a good eye cream.

1. Expecting a cream to remove true bags

If your bags are there every day, didn't change after a good night's sleep and run in your family, they're more likely structural than fluid. A cream can make the skin look better, but it won't move fat back. Johns Hopkins and the Mayo Clinic both list fillers, laser resurfacing and eyelid surgery as the medical options for bags that bother you, so that's a conversation for a doctor.

2. Ignoring the everyday causes

A cream can't outwork a salty dinner and a short night. The Mayo Clinic and the AAO suggest the same basics: cut back on fluids before bed and on salt, get seven to nine hours of sleep, sleep with your head slightly raised, don't smoke, and keep allergies in check. A cool, damp washcloth held under the eyes for a few minutes while you sit up also helps with morning puffiness. Our guide to puffy eyes has more everyday tips.

3. Rubbing and tugging

The skin around your eyes is delicate, so be gentle. The American Academy of Dermatology suggests using your ring finger for any cream around the eyes, because it's the weakest finger and won't pull too hard (AAD, via PR Newswire). Tap a small amount along the bone under the eye instead of rubbing, and keep it off the lash line. The AAO adds that rubbing your eyelids a lot is one habit to avoid if you get bags.

4. Using too many products at once

More layers don't mean better results. In the same AAD advice, dermatologist Susan C. Taylor, MD, warns that using several products at the same time can cancel each other out and irritate the skin, causing redness, stinging and dryness. Keep the eye routine short. Dr. Taylor's order is: wash with a gentle cleanser and pat dry, apply any treatment product, then moisturizer and/or sunscreen, then makeup.

5. Skipping sunscreen and sunglasses

No eye cream makes up for daily sun. The AAD says regular use of a sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher, broad-spectrum protection and water resistance lowers the risk of premature skin aging like wrinkles and age spots. For the eye area, it suggests a sunscreen stick so nothing drips into your eyes (AAD). Add sunglasses with UV protection.

6. Skipping the patch test

Eye-area skin can react to things the rest of your face tolerates. If a product that touches the skin around your eyes gives you an itchy rash, the AAD says you may be reacting to a fragrance or another ingredient, and to stop using it (AAD). Try any new product on a small patch first, as in our guide to trying new skin care products.

7. Pushing through irritation

If an eye product stings or makes your eyes red, stop. The FDA's advice for eye cosmetics is to stop using a product that causes irritation and to see a doctor if it doesn't go away. It also says to skip eye products when the skin around the eye is inflamed or you have an eye infection, and never to share them (FDA).

When should you see a doctor about eye bags?

See a doctor if the swelling is painful, itchy or red, or doesn't go away. The AAO lists those as reasons to see an ophthalmologist, and the Mayo Clinic adds vision problems, irritation, headaches or a skin rash.

Where does Luma Lift fit?

Luma Lift instant eye lift cream is a finishing layer for the look of the eye area. You tap a very small amount on top of your usual eye cream or moisturizer, and as it dries it gives a temporary tightening feel that helps smooth the look of fine lines and puffiness.

Its listed key ingredients include sodium hyaluronate for hydration, three peptides (acetyl hexapeptide-8, acetyl octapeptide-3 and palmitoyl tripeptide-1) and white oak bark, acai and perilla extracts. Caffeine isn't one of them.

It's a cosmetic, so it works on how the area looks, not on what's underneath. Results vary, and the effect is temporary. Our step-by-step guide shows how to apply Luma Lift, and you can see everything else we make for the area in eye care.

FAQ

What cream shrinks under-eye bags?

No cream shrinks bags caused by shifted fat. Creams with caffeine may make morning puffiness look smaller for a while, and hydrating or firming creams help the area look smoother. For bags that are always there, ask a doctor about medical options.

Is moisturizer good for bags under eyes?

A moisturizer helps the skin under your eyes look smoother and less dry, which can make bags less noticeable. The AAO lists moisturizers and concealer as ways to improve how the area looks. It won't remove the bag itself.

Does eye cream help with bags?

It helps with how the area looks, not with the bag underneath. Hydrating ingredients smooth the skin, caffeine can calm morning puffiness for a while, and tightening formulas give a temporary firmer feel.

What's the difference between puffy eyes and eye bags?

Puffy eyes usually come from fluid and tend to come and go, often worse in the morning or after salty food. Eye bags from aging stay put, because weakened tissue lets fat move into the lower lids.

How do you get rid of eye bags without surgery?

For fluid puffiness, try a cool compress, less salt and fluid before bed, enough sleep and a raised head at night. For bags that stay, non-surgical options from a doctor include fillers, laser resurfacing and chemical peels.

Luma by Laura makes and sells Luma Lift, the eye cream mentioned in this article.

Why skin gets dry and flaky

Your outer skin layer works like a barrier that holds water in. When that barrier is low on water or natural oils, skin can feel tight, look dull and shed small flakes. Common causes include:

• Weather and indoor air. Cold air, wind and indoor heating all lower humidity around your skin.
• Hot, long showers. Very hot water can remove the oils that help skin hold moisture.
• Harsh cleansers. Strongly foaming or heavily scented products can leave skin feeling stripped.
• Age. Skin tends to make less oil over time, so dryness often becomes more noticeable after your thirties and forties.
• Frequent hand washing and exfoliating. Too much scrubbing can irritate dry skin and make flaking worse.

Habits that help

Wash gently

Use lukewarm water instead of hot, keep showers short, and choose a mild, fragrance-free cleanser. Pat skin dry with a towel instead of rubbing.

Moisturize while skin is still damp

Apply moisturizer within a few minutes of washing, while your skin is slightly damp. This helps seal in the water that is already there. Creams and ointments are usually more effective for very dry skin than thin lotions.

Look for simple, skin-friendly ingredients

Moisturizers often rely on a mix of ingredients that attract water, soften skin and reduce water loss. Glycerin and hyaluronic acid attract and hold water. Ceramides and fatty acids are the same kinds of fats found naturally in skin. Petrolatum and plant oils help keep moisture from escaping. If your skin is easily irritated, choose fragrance-free products and patch test a new one on a small area first.

Add moisture to the air

A humidifier in your bedroom during dry months can help, especially if you use indoor heating. Keep it clean so it does not grow mold.

Protect your skin from the sun

Sun exposure can make skin drier and more irritated over time. Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen on exposed skin every day, and wear gloves in cold or windy weather.

Go easy on exfoliation

If your skin is flaking, it can be tempting to scrub it away. Gentle exfoliation once or twice a week is enough for most people. Rough scrubs can make dry skin more irritated.

Do not forget the delicate areas

The skin around your eyes and on your lips is thinner and can dry out faster than the rest of your face. Use products made for those areas, apply gently, and avoid rubbing. A hydrating eye cream or lip product with ingredients like hyaluronic acid or vitamin E can help these areas feel more comfortable.

When to see a doctor

Dry skin that does not improve with these steps, or that is very itchy, red, cracked, painful or blistering, can be a sign of a skin condition such as eczema or contact dermatitis, or a reaction to a product. Talk to a doctor or dermatologist if you notice any of these, or if dryness appears suddenly.

Frequently asked questions

What is the fastest way to relieve dry, flaky skin?

Switch to a mild cleanser, wash with lukewarm water, and apply a fragrance-free cream or ointment within a few minutes of washing. Many people notice skin feeling softer in a few days, although it can take a couple of weeks to settle.

Is it better to use a lotion or a cream?

Creams and ointments contain more oil than lotions, so they usually hold moisture in better. Lotions can work well for mild dryness or warm weather.

Can drinking more water cure dry skin?

Staying hydrated is good for your health, but drinking extra water on its own is not a reliable fix for dry skin. Moisturizing and protecting your skin from harsh conditions have a more direct effect.

How often should I moisturize?

At least once a day, ideally after bathing, and again whenever skin feels tight. Hands may need moisturizer after each wash.

What is hyaluronic acid, and how do you use it in skin care? Hyaluronic acid is a moisture-binding ingredient that naturally occurs in the body and is widely used in moisturizers, serums and lip products. It attracts and holds water, which helps skin and lips feel hydrated and look smoother and plumper for a time.

Hyaluronic acid is a substance found naturally in the body, including in the skin and joints, where it helps tissues stay hydrated and lubricated. It is a large molecule that is often described as holding up to 1,000 times its weight in water, which is why it is popular in skin care and in the best lip plumpers. If you are looking for a lip product, see our lip plumping gloss and lip plumpers articles.

Benefits of Hyaluronic Acid in Skin Care

Applied to the skin in a cosmetic product, hyaluronic acid offers benefits such as:

Hydration: It helps skin feel moisturized and can make dryness less noticeable and skin feel smoother.

Plumped look: By attracting and holding water on the skin's surface, it can temporarily give skin a plumper look and soften the look of fine lines.

A smoother, more supple look: Well-hydrated skin tends to look and feel smoother and more supple.

Where You Find Hyaluronic Acid

Hyaluronic acid is naturally present in the body, and levels change with age. It is also found in many skin care products, including moisturizers, serums, and masks. It is also used in injectable dermal fillers, which are medical procedures that should be done by a qualified professional.

How Luma Lips Uses Hyaluronic Acid

Luma Lips lip plumping gloss contains hyaluronic acid along with ingredients such as vitamin E, palmitoyl oligopeptide, and capsaicin. The formula is designed to moisturize and give lips a temporary fuller look. Its clear, glossy finish can be worn alone or over other lip products.

Why Try Luma Lips with Hyaluronic Acid

If you want a lip gloss that hydrates and gives a temporary fuller look, Luma Lips is a great option. Results vary and the plumped look is temporary.

Shop Luma Lips lip plumping gloss

So when a plumper works, it's usually two things at once: a short-lived warming effect and well-moisturized, shiny lips. Here's what each ingredient does and how to spot it on a label.

What makes lip plumper tingle?

The tingle comes from ingredients that mildly irritate the lips on purpose. Capsaicin, the compound that makes chili peppers hot, is the best studied. In a study of 13 healthy adults, a 1% capsaicin cream on the lips caused a burning feeling that peaked within 5 minutes, and lip blood flow and temperature rose and stayed higher for the 30 minutes researchers measured (Boudreau et al.). More blood near the surface is what makes lips look a little redder and fuller.

Cinnamon oil works the same way. SpecialChem's formulation guide calls cinnamon leaf oil possibly the ingredient with "the most impact on lip plumping" because it increases blood flow, and notes that it also burns and stings and has to be used at very low levels (SpecialChem).

Which ingredients are in lip plumpers?

Lip plumper ingredients fall into four groups: warming ingredients, hydrators, smoothing and conditioning ingredients, and the gloss base itself.

A product usually leads with one warming ingredient rather than all of them. If you see several on one label, expect a stronger sting.

How do you read a lip plumper label?

Read the ingredient list from the top. In the U.S., cosmetic ingredients are listed in descending order of predominance, so the first few make up most of the product (FDA). A few quick checks:

• Find the warming ingredient. Look for capsaicin, capsicum, cinnamon, ginger, peppermint, menthol or benzyl nicotinate. No warming ingredient usually means a hydrating gloss with a subtler effect.
• Find the hydrator. Hyaluronic acid (often listed as sodium hyaluronate) or glycerin helps the plumped look stay smooth instead of dry.
• Check for flavor and fragrance if your lips are sensitive. The American Academy of Dermatology lists cinnamon, mint, peppermint, menthol and fragrance among the ingredients to avoid while lips are chapped (AAD).
• Ignore permanent promises. A product sold to change the structure of your body is a drug under U.S. law, not a cosmetic (FDA). A gloss changes how lips look, for a while.

Are there lip plumpers without the burn?

Yes. Hydrating plumpers skip the warming ingredients and rely on hyaluronic acid, glycerin and peptides to smooth the lips, plus shine to catch the light. The Los Angeles Times describes this as a gentler, "slow burn" approach: less sting, subtler change. If the tingle type bothers you, a hydrating gloss over a thin layer of balm is the easier option.

Is lip plumper safe?

Lip plumpers are sold as cosmetics, but their warming ingredients can irritate, especially on dry or chapped lips. Patch test on a small area first, at a time you're not heading out. If your lips burn, swell painfully, peel or crack, wipe the product off and stop using it. The AAD's advice for chapped lips is to stop any product that burns, stings or tingles until they heal (AAD). If you have a skin condition on or near your lips, ask a dermatologist before trying one.

What's in Luma Lips?

Luma Lips plumping gloss uses four key ingredients:

• Capsaicin for the warming tingle and a temporary plumping effect.
• Hyaluronic acid, a humectant that helps lips hold moisture.
• Vitamin E, a conditioning ingredient for dry, chapped-looking lips.
• Palmitoyl oligopeptide, a peptide used in lip care to help lips look smoother.

It's a clear gloss with a birthday cake scent, so you can wear it alone or over lipstick. Expect a tingle after you apply it. If irritation continues, stop using it. Results vary and the effect is temporary.

Want to know what to expect from a plumper overall? Read lip plumpers that actually work, or see how to use hyaluronic acid for more on that ingredient.

FAQ

What is the main ingredient in lip plumper?

There isn't one standard ingredient. Most lip plumpers rely on a warming ingredient such as capsaicin, cinnamon, ginger, peppermint or menthol, paired with a hydrator such as hyaluronic acid or glycerin.

Why does lip plumper make my lips tingle?

Warming ingredients mildly irritate the thin skin of the lips, which increases blood flow and creates warmth or a tingle. In a study of topical capsaicin on the lips, the burning feeling peaked in the first 5 minutes and then eased.

What does hyaluronic acid do in a lip plumper?

Hyaluronic acid is a humectant: it draws water into the surface of the lips. Hydrated lips look smoother and fine lip lines show less, which adds to the fuller look without a tingle.

Is capsaicin in lip plumper the same as hot sauce?

It's the same compound that makes chili peppers hot. Lip products use it in small amounts in a cosmetic base, and you should keep it away from your eyes.

What happens if you use lip plumper every day?

Warming formulas can leave lips dry or irritated with heavy use. Follow the product's directions, use a thin layer, put a plain balm on at night, and stop if your lips start to peel or crack.

Luma by Laura makes and sells Luma Lips, the gloss mentioned in this article.

A "No. 1" badge on a lash serum is marketing, not a medical ranking. So instead of another brand list, here's how to choose: the three kinds of serum, what to look for on the label, how long to give one, and when to talk to a doctor first.

What kinds of lash serums are there?

Lash serums fall into three groups: prescription bimatoprost, cosmetic serums that contain a prostaglandin analog, and conditioning serums without one. Here's how they compare.

Table sources: the American Academy of Ophthalmology and a 2024 review of eyelash serums in the Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology (Baiyasi et al.).

Do eyelash growth serums actually work?

Prescription bimatoprost does, and the evidence is strong. In a 278-person trial published in the Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology, 78.1% of people using bimatoprost 0.03% had at least a one-grade improvement in overall lash prominence at week 16, compared with 18.4% using the same solution without the drug (Smith et al., 2012).

Cosmetic serums are a different story. The 2024 review graded peptides, panthenol and similar ingredients at the lowest level of evidence for lash growth, because no formal eyelash studies exist (Baiyasi et al.). What they do is cosmetic: lashes that look conditioned, smoother and fuller.

There's a legal reason for that line, too. Under U.S. law, a product's intended use decides whether it's a cosmetic or a drug, and the FDA names claims to "restore hair growth" as an example of a drug claim (FDA). So a cosmetic serum that promises real growth is promising more than a cosmetic is allowed to.

How do you choose a lash serum?

Start with your goal, then let the ingredient list do the rest. Here's the short checklist:

1. Decide what you're after. If your lashes are sparse and you want actual growth, ask a doctor about prescription bimatoprost. If you want lashes that look fuller and feel softer, a conditioning serum fits.
2. Read the full ingredient list. Cosmetics sold to consumers in the U.S. must carry an ingredient declaration, and one without it is misbranded (FDA). If a seller won't show you the list, skip it.
3. Check for a prostaglandin analog. On a label, these show up as names like isopropyl cloprostenate, dechloro dihydroxy difluoro ethylcloprostenolamide, methylamido dihydro noralfaprostal or norbimatoprost (Baiyasi et al.). The AAO notes that isopropyl cloprostenate, one often found in over-the-counter serums, isn't FDA-approved and hasn't been tested by the FDA (AAO).
4. Buy from a seller you trust. Labels aren't always complete. In a 2022 lab study of 64 lash serums bought from 34 websites, 4 contained bimatoprost, and only one of those said so on the package. Eight more contained prostaglandin-type compounds never used in medicines (Baiyasi et al.).
5. Think about your eyes first. If you have glaucoma, eye inflammation or another eye condition, ask your ophthalmologist before using a lash growth drug like Latisse (AAO).
6. Check the brush and the directions. A fine brush lets you paint a thin line at the base of the upper lashes. More isn't better: the Latisse label says extra applications won't increase lash growth (DailyMed).

How long does a lash serum take to work?

Give any lash serum at least a couple of months before you judge it. The Latisse label says the effect is gradual and isn't significant for most people until 2 months, and that lashes return to their previous look over several weeks to months after you stop (DailyMed).

That pace makes sense once you know how lashes cycle. The growth phase of an eyelash lasts about 4 to 10 weeks, and a full cycle takes about 4 to 11 months (Baiyasi et al.). A conditioning serum works on the lashes you have, so use it the way its directions say and expect a gradual change in how they look.

Which lash serum is best for sensitive eyes?

No serum is guaranteed to suit sensitive eyes, but a short ingredient list with no prostaglandin analog and no fragrance is the gentler place to start. The skin around the eyes is thin, which makes it easier for contact dermatitis to develop there, and fragrance is one of the ingredients it can react to (AAD).

A few habits help with any eye product:

• Test first. Try a small amount on your inner wrist or behind your ear and wait 24 hours, as in our guide to trying new skin care products.
• Stop if it stings. If an eye product causes irritation, stop using it, and see a doctor if the irritation doesn't go away (FDA).
• Skip it during an eye infection, and don't share eye products with anyone (FDA).

Where does Luma Lash fit?

Luma Lash eyelash and brow serum is a conditioning serum, the third type in the table. Per the label, its ingredients are: Purified Water (Aqua), Myristoyl Pentapeptide-17, Cellulose Gum, Glycerin, Sodium PCA, Panthenol, Calcium Pantothenate, Vitis Vinifera (Grape) Fruit Cell Extract, Phenoxyethanol and Ethylhexylglycerin.

So it's prostaglandin-free per the published ingredient label, and no fragrance is listed. Here's what the main ingredients are there for:

• Myristoyl pentapeptide-17, a peptide used to condition lashes.
• Glycerin, a humectant that helps hold moisture in.
• Panthenol (pro-vitamin B5), a conditioning ingredient.
• Grape cell extract, a plant-derived conditioning ingredient.

You brush a thin line along the base of the upper lashes at night, or in the morning before makeup, and it works on brows too. It's made in the USA and cruelty free (see why we care about cruelty-free skin care). It's made to help lashes look longer and fuller, not to change how they grow, and results vary.

FAQ

What is the No. 1 lash serum?

"No. 1" and bestseller claims are marketing, not a medical ranking. Bimatoprost 0.03% (Latisse) is the only ingredient FDA-approved to grow eyelashes. Among cosmetic serums, pick one with a full ingredient list that suits your eyes.

Is there something better than Latisse?

For growing lashes, bimatoprost 0.03% has the strongest evidence. Other prostaglandin analogs found in cosmetic serums haven't been adequately assessed for safety. A conditioning serum is a different product with a different job: it conditions lashes so they look fuller.

Do any lash serums actually work?

Prescription bimatoprost does: 78.1% of users in a 278-person trial had more prominent lashes at 16 weeks, compared with 18.4% on the same solution without the drug. Cosmetic serums condition lashes, but no formal studies show they make lashes grow.

Does lash serum work on eyebrows?

Some lash serums are made for both. Luma Lash's directions include brows. Latisse is applied to the upper lash line only, so check the directions on whatever you buy.

Do you need a prescription for an eyelash growth serum?

You need one for Latisse. Cosmetic lash serums are sold without a prescription, but under U.S. law a product sold to make lashes grow counts as a drug.

What happens when you stop using lash serum?

The Latisse label says lashes return to their previous appearance over several weeks to months after you stop. A conditioning serum works on the look and feel of the lashes you have, so keep using it if you like the result.

Luma by Laura makes and sells Luma Lash, the serum mentioned in this article.

How do you find the best face mask for acne-prone skin? Look for a clay or charcoal mask that absorbs excess oil, use it once or twice a week, and avoid anything harsh that irritates your skin. Masks can help skin feel cleaner and look less shiny, but they do not treat acne itself, so see a dermatologist if breakouts persist.

Why Use a Face Mask

Masks are versatile. Depending on the type, they can help skin feel soothed, exfoliated, or less oily. Even if your morning and evening routine is solid, a mask can be a helpful extra step for oily skin.

How Often to Use a Mask

Sheet masks and masks that are simply hydrating or soothing are generally fine to use more often. Masks with exfoliating or active ingredients are usually best used once or twice a week.

Using an exfoliating mask every day can irritate skin.

Finding the Right Mask

For acne-prone skin, many people look for charcoal or clay masks. They can absorb excess oil and leave skin feeling cleaner.

Clay masks can also help reduce surface shine and the look of enlarged pores. Keep expectations realistic: a mask will not make blemishes disappear overnight.

Choose a mask that absorbs oil without leaving skin feeling tight or stripped. Some people prefer to skip sheet masks if their skin tends to feel congested, and to choose peel-off, clay, or charcoal masks instead.

Peel-off masks lift away a layer of dead skin cells and surface dirt. They do not pull dirt out of pores. Avoid homemade peel-off masks that use glue, which can irritate and damage skin. If you choose a peel-off mask, you may prefer one without polyvinyl alcohol, which some people find irritating.

Mask Components

Look at the ingredients, and consider using your mask in the evening, when you have time to leave it on.

Look at the ingredients: Ingredients often found in products for blemish-prone skin include salicylic acid, glycolic acid, tea tree oil and chamomile. Others, such as seaweed extract, vitamin B5 and bisabolol, are commonly used in soothing formulas. Kaolin is a mineral clay that helps absorb oil and gently exfoliate. Active ingredients can irritate, so patch test first.

Try using your mask at night: You can use a mask any time, but evening is convenient since most masks stay on for 10 to 20 minutes. Do your full skincare routine before applying it, and always follow the product directions.

If you use charcoal, mud, or clay, be sure to wash it off thoroughly. If your skin is on the oily side, you may want to skip rich, moisturizing masks.

Clay Masks

There is no single clay that fits every skin type.

Rhassoul clay is a gentle option many people choose for oily, congested-looking skin. It absorbs oil and contains minerals.

Bentonite clay, which comes from volcanic ash, is popular for oily skin because it absorbs excess oil.

Australian pink clay is gentle enough for sensitive skin and is often used to calm the look of redness. It also absorbs oil.

French green clay is popular for oily skin and for a deep-cleaning feel. Choose one that is green in color, never gray or white.

Best Face Mask for Acne

When choosing a face mask for acne-prone skin, there are many factors to consider. Take your time, patch test, and pick a product that fits your skin type.

If you have persistent or severe acne, cysts or scarring, see a dermatologist. Acne is a medical condition, and a cosmetic mask is not a substitute for medical care.

Browse Luma by Laura skincare

How do you use Luma Lips? Gently exfoliate your lips, apply a small amount of Luma Lips starting in the center and working outward, and let it settle before adding other lip products. Use it once or twice a day, patch test first, and skip it on broken or irritated skin.

Luma Lips by Luma by Laura is a lip plumping gloss designed to give lips a temporary fuller, smoother, more moisturized look. Here are tips for using it. For more background, read our lip plumpers guide and lip plumpers that actually work.

Step by Step

1. Start by gently exfoliating your lips to create a smooth base for the product.
2. Apply a small amount of Luma Lips to your lips, starting in the center and working outward. Be careful not to apply too much, as this can look uneven.
3. Let the product settle fully before applying any other lip products.

Dos and Don'ts

Dos:

• Do use Luma Lips as directed.
• Do exfoliate your lips beforehand for a smooth base.
• Do apply a lip balm or moisturizer underneath if your lips are particularly dry or chapped.
• Do patch test first.

Don'ts:

• Don't apply too much product.
• Don't use Luma Lips on broken or irritated skin.
• Don't use it if you are allergic to any of its ingredients.

You may feel a warming or tingling sensation. If your lips feel sore or irritated, wash the product off and stop using it.

With regular use, Luma Lips is designed to give lips a fuller, smoother, more moisturized look. Results vary from person to person.

Shop Luma Lips lip plumping gloss

Does buying cruelty-free skin care make a difference? Yes, it can. Choosing products that are not tested on animals supports animal welfare and encourages brands to use alternative testing methods. Look for recognized certifications such as the Leaping Bunny or PETA logo to confirm a brand's claim.

What Does Cruelty-Free Mean in the Skin Care Industry?

Cruelty-free skin care refers to products that are made and tested without harming animals. Cruelty-free brands avoid animal testing and use alternative methods instead. To check that a product is cruelty-free, look for certifications and labels such as the Leaping Bunny or PETA logo. Brands earn these by meeting the programs' criteria.

Benefits of Choosing Cruelty-Free Skin Care

Choosing cruelty-free skin care can matter for animals and for the way the beauty industry operates. Here are some reasons people choose it:

Animal Welfare

Cruelty-free products are made without animal testing, which helps reduce the number of animals used in product testing. Choosing them helps support animal welfare and tells companies that shoppers care how products are tested.

Alternative Testing Methods

Brands that avoid animal testing rely on other methods, such as computer modeling, in vitro testing, and testing with human volunteers. Product safety still matters, so look for brands that are transparent about how their products are tested.

Environmental Impact

Some cruelty-free brands also prioritize sustainable and eco-friendly practices. If that matters to you, check each brand's own sustainability information.

How to Shop Cruelty-Free

• Look for the Leaping Bunny or PETA logo on the package or on the brand's website.
• Be cautious about vague wording such as "not tested on animals" with no certification behind it.
• Check the brand's parent company and the countries where it sells, as policies can differ.
• Read the ingredient list for anything you are sensitive to, and patch test new products.

Conclusion

Choosing cruelty-free skin care is a simple way to align your routine with your values. Look for recognized certifications, read labels, and pick products that suit your skin.

Browse Luma by Laura skincare

What Causes Wrinkles?

Skin changes as we age. It tends to become thinner and drier, and it makes less of the substances that keep it looking plump. Several things can make lines more visible:

• Sun exposure. UV light is a major contributor to visible skin aging.
• Repeated expressions. Squinting, frowning and smiling create lines over the years.
• Smoking. It is linked to earlier and deeper lines.
• Genetics. Some people simply develop lines earlier or later than others.
• Dryness. Dry skin can make fine lines look more noticeable.

What Can Help Skin Look Smoother?

A few simple habits can make a visible difference to how your skin looks:

• Wear a broad-spectrum sunscreen every day and wear sunglasses.
• Moisturize morning and night. A good moisturizer can temporarily make fine lines look less noticeable.
• Drink enough water, eat a balanced diet and get enough sleep.
• Avoid smoking.

The skin around the eyes is thin and delicate, so many people add an eye cream to their routine. Luma Lift is a moisturizing eye cream made to help the skin around your eyes look smoother and more hydrated. For questions about in-office procedures or skin concerns, talk to a dermatologist.

Shop Luma Lift eye cream

What is Luma Lips? Luma Lips is a lip plumping gloss from Luma by Laura that gives lips a temporary fuller look while moisturizing. It has a clear, glossy formula that can be worn alone or over lipstick.

Luma Lips at a Glance

If you want to enhance the appearance of your lips, a lip plumping gloss can be a fun option. Luma Lips contains hyaluronic acid among its ingredients and is designed to give lips a smoother, glossier, more moisturized look. The fuller look is temporary and the formula can create a warming or tingling feel.

• What it is: a clear lip plumping gloss with a balm-like, glossy finish.
• How to use it: apply a small amount, starting in the center of your lips and working outward.
• Good to know: patch test first and avoid broken or irritated skin.

For a quick how-to, read our How to Use a Lip Plumper article. You can also read lip plumpers that actually work to see how plumping glosses work in general.

Shop Luma Lips lip plumping gloss

Choosing skin care products can feel overwhelming with so many options. New products can also cause irritation or allergic reactions for some people. Here are tips for trying new skin care products, including lip products. If you are looking for a new lip plumping gloss, read our lip plumpers guide.

Know Your Skin Type

Skin types are usually described as oily, dry, combination, or sensitive.

Oily skin tends to produce more oil and can be prone to breakouts.

Dry skin lacks moisture and can feel tight or flaky.

Combination skin has a mix of oily and dry areas, while sensitive skin is prone to irritation and redness.

Knowing your skin type helps you choose products designed for your needs.

Read Product Labels Carefully

Reading labels helps you understand what is in a product. Many people look for hydrating ingredients such as hyaluronic acid, which helps skin retain moisture, and vitamin C, which can help skin look brighter. Retinol is another popular ingredient, but it can be irritating, so introduce it slowly and ask a dermatologist if you are unsure.

If your skin is sensitive, you may want to avoid strong fragrances and harsh ingredients that can cause irritation or dryness. Make sure the product is free of any ingredients you may be allergic to.

Do a Patch Test

Before using any new product, do a patch test to see if it causes irritation.

Apply a small amount to a small area of skin, such as the inside of your wrist or behind your ear. Wait 24 hours and watch for redness, itching or swelling. If there is no reaction, you can try it on the intended area. If you do get a reaction, wash the product off and stop using it.

Don't Try Too Many Products at Once

It is tempting to try several new products together, but it is better to introduce them slowly. Too many at once can overwhelm skin and make it hard to tell which one caused a reaction.

Introduce one new product at a time, wait at least a week before adding another, and watch how your skin responds.

Give the Product Time

Be patient with a new product. It can take a few weeks to see how your skin responds. Avoid giving up too soon, but stop right away if you have irritation.

Seek Professional Advice

If you have persistent skin concerns or you are unsure which products to use, ask a dermatologist or esthetician. They can give personalized recommendations and help you decide which ingredients to avoid.

Trying new skin care can be fun if you go about it carefully. Identify your skin type, read labels, patch test, introduce products one at a time, and get professional advice when needed.

Steps to Follow When Selecting a Lip Plumper

If you are looking for a lip plumping gloss, Luma Lips is one option. Here is how to decide whether it suits you:

Know your skin type: Consider your lips and any sensitivities. Luma Lips contains hyaluronic acid, which is used in lip products for its moisturizing, plumped look.

Read the label: Check the ingredient list to make sure you are not allergic to any ingredient.

Do a patch test: Before applying Luma Lips to your lips, test a small amount on your arm and wait 24 hours.

Don't try too many products at once: Try Luma Lips on its own for a week before adding other new products.

Give it time: Use it consistently for a few weeks to see how you like it.

Seek professional advice: If you have persistent lip concerns, ask a dermatologist.

Luma Lips is a lip plumping gloss designed to give lips a temporary fuller, more moisturized look. Follow these steps to introduce it to your routine safely.

Shop Luma Lips lip plumping gloss

That's the honest version. Below is how to tell a plumper that does something from one that's just shiny, what to look for on the label, and who should skip them.

How do lip plumpers work?

Lip plumpers work in one of two ways, and many formulas combine both.

1. The tingle kind. Ingredients like capsaicin (the heat in chili peppers), cinnamon, ginger, menthol or peppermint mildly irritate the thin skin of the lips. Blood flow goes up, lips look a little redder and fuller, and you feel warmth or a tingle. In a small study of 13 healthy adults, a 1% capsaicin cream on the lips raised lip blood flow and temperature within 5 minutes, and the increase was still there 30 minutes later (Boudreau et al., Journal of Orofacial Pain). The burning feeling peaked in the first 5 minutes and then eased off.
2. The hydrating kind. Humectants such as hyaluronic acid and glycerin pull water into the surface of the lips. Hydrated lips look smoother, and fine lip lines are less obvious, so the lips read as fuller. This kind feels gentler but the change is subtler (Los Angeles Times).

There's a third trick that isn't an ingredient at all: shine. A glossy finish reflects light from the center of the lips and makes them look bigger. That's why almost every plumper is a gloss.

Does a lip plumper have to tingle to work?

No, a tingle isn't proof that a plumper works. The American Academy of Dermatology says many people mistake burning, stinging or tingling for a sign a lip product is working, when it actually means the product is irritating your lips (AAD). A mild, short-lived tingle from a plumper is expected. A strong burn, swelling that hurts, or peeling the next day means that formula is too much for you.

What should you look for in a lip plumper?

Look for one warming ingredient in a low amount, a hydrator, and a texture you'll actually wear. Here's a quick checklist to use on any label.

Skip anything that promises a permanent change. Under U.S. law, a product sold to change the structure of the body is regulated as a drug, not a cosmetic (FDA). A cosmetic lip plumper can only change how your lips look.

How long does a lip plumper last?

The plumped look is temporary and fades within hours. Brand claims quoted in SpecialChem's guide to lip-plumping ingredients range from "up to 4 hours" to "3 to 6 hours" (SpecialChem), and eating, drinking and wiping your lips shorten it. If a gloss tingles, the Los Angeles Times suggests limiting reapplication to once or twice a day. Either way, follow the directions on your product.

Who should skip lip plumpers?

Skip tingle-type plumpers if your lips are chapped, cracked or sore. The AAD recommends stopping lip products that burn, sting or tingle while chapped lips heal, and choosing fragrance-free balms with ingredients like petrolatum, shea butter or dimethicone instead (AAD). Skip spicy formulas if you know you react to cinnamon, peppers or mint. If you have a skin condition on or around your lips, ask a dermatologist first.

How do you get the most from a lip plumper?

Start with smooth, moisturized lips and use a thin layer. A few habits make a bigger difference than the product itself:

• Prep. Gently smooth flaky skin with a damp washcloth, then apply to clean, dry lips.
• Go thin. One thin layer is enough. A thick coat tingles more and looks uneven.
• Let it settle. Wait about 10 minutes before adding balm or color, so the gloss can set.
• Use light and placement. A little extra gloss on the center of the lower lip catches the light and makes the whole mouth look fuller.
• Moisturize at night. Plain balm or petroleum jelly overnight keeps lips smooth for the next day.

Where does Luma Lips fit?

Luma Lips plumping gloss combines both approaches. It uses capsaicin for a warming tingle and a temporary fuller look, plus hyaluronic acid and vitamin E for moisture and a peptide (palmitoyl oligopeptide) to help lips look smoother. It's clear, so you can wear it alone or over lipstick or liner. Apply a thin layer to clean, dry lips, wait at least 10 minutes before adding balm or color, and expect a tingle. If irritation continues, stop using it. The effect is cosmetic and temporary, and results vary.

For a closer look at specific ingredients, read what's in a lip plumper, or browse our lip care collection.

FAQ

Is there a lip plumper that actually works?

Yes, for a temporary fuller look. Plumpers with a warming ingredient such as capsaicin, cinnamon or menthol increase blood flow to the lips for a short time, and hydrating plumpers with hyaluronic acid make lips look smoother. Neither changes lip size permanently.

Do any lip plumping products have permanent effects?

No. Cosmetic lip plumpers only change how lips look for a few hours. A product sold to permanently change the body's structure would be regulated as a drug by the FDA. Lasting changes take a procedure such as fillers, which should be done by a licensed professional.

Is it safe to use lip plumper every day?

There's no set limit, but tingle-type formulas can dry or irritate lips with heavy use. Follow the product's directions, use a thin layer, moisturize at night, and stop if your lips burn, peel or crack.

What's the best lip plumper for over 50?

A gentler formula with hydrators such as hyaluronic acid and glycerin is a sensible place to start, because hydrated lips look smoother and fine lip lines show less. A sheer gloss on the center of the lips adds the look of fullness without a strong sting.

Why does lip plumper burn?

Warming ingredients such as capsaicin, cinnamon and menthol mildly irritate the lips on purpose, which raises blood flow and causes warmth or a tingle. A mild tingle that fades within minutes is normal. Strong burning or pain means you should wipe it off.

Luma by Laura makes and sells Luma Lips, the gloss mentioned in this article.

Can medical testing help you age well? Routine health screenings can catch conditions such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol or diabetes early, so you and your doctor can act on them sooner. That makes regular checkups one of the most useful parts of any healthy-aging plan.

Identifying Health Issues

Medical testing can identify health issues that may affect how you feel as you get older, such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol, or diabetes. Finding these conditions early gives you and your doctor more options for managing them.

Monitoring Treatments

Testing can also be used to monitor treatments your doctor has prescribed. Hormone replacement therapy (HRT), for example, is a medical treatment some people use, and it can carry health risks. Regular testing under a doctor's care helps monitor its effects and adjust the plan as needed. Decisions about hormones or any prescription treatment belong with your doctor.

Types of Medical Tests Often Discussed in Healthy Aging

Here are some common types of tests people talk to their doctors about as they age. Which ones make sense for you depends on your age, history and risk factors.

Blood Tests

Blood tests can show signs of conditions such as high cholesterol and diabetes. Regular blood work can help you and your doctor spot changes early and decide what to do next.

Coenzyme Q10 Blood Test

A Coenzyme Q10 blood test measures the level of CoQ10 in the blood. CoQ10 is a compound the body makes that plays a role in cellular energy and has antioxidant properties. The test involves a blood draw from the arm, which is analyzed in a laboratory. A healthcare provider may order it as part of a physical exam or while looking into a specific health concern. Whether this test is right for you is a question for your doctor.

Genetic Testing

Genetic testing can identify markers associated with a higher risk of certain age-related conditions. A doctor or genetic counselor can help you understand what the results do and do not mean.

Imaging Tests

Imaging tests, such as X-rays or MRIs, can show early signs of conditions such as osteoporosis or arthritis, which your doctor can then help you manage.

Hormone Testing

Hormone testing can help your doctor understand whether hormone levels may be linked to symptoms you are having. Hormone treatments are prescription medicine, so talk to your doctor about the benefits and risks.

The Importance of Regular Medical Testing

Regular checkups and screenings help with early detection of health conditions, which gives you more time and more options. They can also help you make informed decisions about your health.

In addition to regular testing, everyday habits matter. Here are some lifestyle choices commonly linked with healthy aging.

Lifestyle Habits for Healthy Aging

Healthy Diet

A diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean protein, and healthy fats provides the nutrients the body needs and is linked to better overall health as we age.

Regular Exercise

Regular exercise can help maintain muscle mass, support bone density, and keep the body in shape. Many health organizations suggest about 30 minutes of moderate activity on most days, but check with your doctor about what is right for you.

Stress Management

Chronic stress is linked to a number of health problems. Meditation, yoga, time in nature, or hobbies you enjoy can all help you unwind.

Sleep Quality

Getting enough sleep is important for overall health. Most adults do best with seven or more hours a night.

Final Thoughts on An Ounce of Prevention

Regular medical testing is an essential part of preventive care. It helps catch problems early, and healthy habits such as good nutrition, exercise, stress management and sleep support how you feel as you age. Talk to your doctor about which screenings are right for you. For skin-level care, a simple daily routine with sun protection and moisturizer helps your skin look its best.

Browse Luma by Laura skincare

How can you take an active role in healthy aging? Focus on the habits you control: regular exercise, a balanced diet, enough sleep, managing stress, limiting alcohol and not smoking, plus daily sun protection and moisturizer. You cannot stop aging, but these habits can help you feel your best and help your skin look its best.

Understanding the Aging Process

Aging is a complex process that involves both biological and environmental factors. Some of the most common contributors include:

Cellular Aging

Over time, cells in the body change and become less efficient. This is a natural part of aging and is one reason the body changes as we get older.

Hormonal Changes

Hormonal changes, such as a decrease in estrogen and testosterone levels, are also part of aging and can be linked to changes in muscle mass, bone density, and other physical changes. Talk to your doctor about any symptoms that concern you.

Environmental Factors

Environmental factors such as UV exposure, pollution, smoking and stress are linked to visible skin aging and to a higher risk of chronic health conditions.

Understanding these factors is a good first step. Next, here are some habits to adopt.

Tips for Becoming an Active Participant

Exercise Regularly

Regular exercise supports muscle mass, bone health, and overall well-being. Many health organizations suggest about 30 minutes of moderate activity on most days. Check with your doctor about what is right for you.

Eat a Healthy Diet

A diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean protein, and healthy fats supports overall health. Limiting processed foods and sugary drinks is generally good advice.

Get Adequate Sleep

Sleep is important for overall health. Most adults do best with seven or more hours a night.

Manage Stress Levels

Chronic stress is linked to a number of health problems. Meditation, yoga, time in nature, and hobbies you enjoy can all help.

Limit Alcohol and Avoid Smoking

Alcohol and smoking are linked to visible skin aging and to a higher risk of chronic diseases. Limiting alcohol and avoiding smoking supports your overall health.

Skin Care Products and Treatments

Beyond healthy habits, there are many skin care products and professional treatments people consider. Here are the main types:

Topical Products

Creams and serums can help skin look more hydrated and reduce the look of fine lines. For the delicate skin around the eyes, a moisturizing eye cream such as Luma Lift can help the area look smoother and more refreshed.

Injectable Treatments

Injectable treatments such as Botox or dermal fillers are medical procedures that some people choose to reduce the look of lines and wrinkles. They should be performed by a qualified medical professional.

Laser and Light Therapies

Laser and light therapies are in-office procedures that some people choose to improve the look of skin texture and age spots. Ask a board-certified dermatologist about the benefits and risks.

Surgical Procedures

Surgical procedures, such as facelifts or eyelid lifts, can produce more dramatic changes. They are invasive and involve recovery time and risks.

Before choosing any product or treatment, speak with a healthcare professional to find out which option is right for you.

Conclusion

Becoming an active participant in how you age starts with understanding what influences it and adopting healthy habits. Add a sun-smart skincare routine, and talk to a healthcare professional before choosing any treatment.

Shop Luma Lift eye cream

How can you care for your eyes as you age? Start with regular eye exams, a balanced diet, UV-blocking sunglasses and not smoking, and see an eye doctor promptly about any change in vision. Many age-related eye conditions are easier to manage when they are found early.

Understanding the Aging Eye

As we age, our eyes go through several changes that can affect our vision. Here are some of the most common age-related eye conditions:

Presbyopia

Presbyopia happens when the eye's natural lens loses flexibility, making it harder to focus on close-up objects. It typically begins in the 40s and affects nearly everyone as they age.

Cataracts

Cataracts occur when the natural lens of the eye becomes cloudy, leading to blurred vision and increased sensitivity to light. They are common among older adults, and an eye doctor can discuss treatment options, including surgery.

Age-related Macular Degeneration (AMD)

AMD affects the macula, the part of the retina responsible for central vision. It can cause blurriness, distorted vision, and blind spots, and it is a leading cause of vision loss in older adults.

Glaucoma

Glaucoma damages the optic nerve and can lead to vision loss. It is often associated with high pressure in the eye and is most common in older adults.

Knowing about these conditions is a good first step. Here are some habits that are linked to good eye health as you age.

Tips for Maintaining Eye Health as You Age

Get Regular Eye Exams

Regular eye exams can help detect eye problems early, when they are most manageable. Ask your eye doctor how often you should be seen based on your age and risk factors.

Eat a Healthy Diet

A diet rich in fruits and vegetables, particularly dark leafy greens like spinach and kale, is linked to better eye health. Omega-3 fatty acids found in fish, nuts, and seeds are also part of a balanced diet.

Wear Sunglasses

Sunglasses can protect your eyes from UV rays, which are linked to a higher risk of cataracts and other eye conditions. Look for sunglasses that block both UVA and UVB rays.

Quit Smoking

Smoking is linked to several eye diseases, including AMD and cataracts. If you smoke, your doctor can help you find a plan to quit.

Use Proper Lighting and Limit Screen Time

Good lighting when reading or working on a computer can help reduce eye strain. Taking regular screen breaks can ease eye fatigue.

Lifestyle Habits for Healthier Eyes

Exercise Regularly

Regular exercise is linked to better overall health, including circulation.

Manage Chronic Health Conditions

Conditions like diabetes and high blood pressure can increase the risk of eye problems such as diabetic retinopathy and glaucoma. Work with your doctor to manage them.

Get Enough Sleep

Adequate sleep supports overall health, and tired eyes often feel dry and strained. Most adults do best with seven or more hours a night.

Practice Eye Exercises

Simple exercises, like focusing on a distant object for a few seconds and then on a closer one, can ease eye strain, though they do not replace an eye exam or correct vision problems.

Conclusion

Caring for your eyes as you age supports your quality of life. Get regular eye exams, eat a balanced diet, wear sunglasses, avoid smoking, light your space well and take screen breaks. For the delicate skin around your eyes, a gentle daily routine helps too.

Shop Luma Lift eye cream

What is a lip plumping gloss, and how do you use one safely? A lip plumping gloss is a cosmetic that gives lips a temporary fuller look, often with a warming or tingling feel. Use a small amount, patch test first, skip it on broken or irritated skin, and stop if your lips feel sore.

Lip plumpers are cosmetic products designed to enhance the appearance of the lips by making them look fuller. They come in various formulations, such as gels, balms, serums, and glosses, and may contain a combination of natural and synthetic ingredients. For healthy lips in general, see our articles on trying new skin care products, how to use hyaluronic acid and lip plumpers.

This post introduces Luma Lips, a lip plumping gloss by Luma by Laura that contains hyaluronic acid, vitamin E, palmitoyl oligopeptide, and capsaicin. We explain what each ingredient is, how to use the gloss, and what to expect, so you can decide whether it is right for you.

What is Luma Lips?

Luma Lips is a lip plumping gloss designed to give lips a temporary fuller look. It has a clear, glossy formula that can be applied over lipstick or on bare lips.

Main Ingredients of Luma Lips

Luma Lips contains four featured ingredients: hyaluronic acid, vitamin E, palmitoyl oligopeptide, and capsaicin.

Hyaluronic acid is a moisture-binding ingredient used widely in skin care. It is often described as holding up to 1,000 times its weight in water, which is why it is popular in lip products for a plump, hydrated look.

Vitamin E is an antioxidant commonly used in cosmetics. It also helps condition and soften skin.

Palmitoyl oligopeptide is a peptide used in cosmetic formulas. In a lip gloss it is part of the blend that helps lips look smoother.

Capsaicin is derived from chili peppers. It creates a warming, tingling sensation on the lips, and that sensation is part of the temporary plumped feel.

How Luma Lips Works

Luma Lips combines hydrating ingredients with a warming ingredient. Together they give lips a temporary fuller, glossier look that wears off over time.

To use Luma Lips, apply a small amount with the applicator wand. Start in the center of your lips and work outward, being careful not to apply too much product.

You may feel a tingling or warming sensation. This is expected, but if your lips feel sore, burn or become irritated, wash the product off and stop using it. Luma Lips can be used alone or over lipstick and reapplied as needed.

Benefits of Luma Lips

A. Fuller-Looking Lips

Luma Lips is designed to help lips look fuller and more voluminous for a temporary plumped look.

B. Smoother-Looking Lips

Hyaluronic acid helps lips feel hydrated, and well-hydrated lips look smoother. It can temporarily soften the look of fine lines on the lips.

C. Moisturized Lips

Luma Lips also moisturizes. Vitamin E helps condition and soften the lips, which helps them feel soft and comfortable in dry or cold weather.

D. Glossy Shine

The clear, glossy formula can be worn alone for a natural shine or over lipstick for extra dimension.

Whether you want it for a special occasion or as part of your daily routine, Luma Lips is designed to give lips a fuller, smoother, more moisturized look.

How to Use Luma Lips

To get the most out of Luma Lips, apply it correctly. Here are a few tips:

1. Begin by gently exfoliating your lips to create a smooth base.
2. Apply a small amount of Luma Lips to your lips, starting in the center and working outward.
3. Be careful not to apply too much product, as this can look uneven.
4. Allow the product to settle before applying any other lip products.

Dos and Don'ts

Dos:

• Do use Luma Lips as directed.
• Do exfoliate your lips before applying for a smooth base.
• Do apply a lip balm or moisturizer underneath if your lips are particularly dry or chapped.
• Do a patch test on a small area first.

Don'ts:

• Don't apply too much product.
• Don't use Luma Lips on broken or irritated skin.
• Don't use it if you are allergic to any of its ingredients.

Frequency of Use

Use Luma Lips as needed, but do not overuse it, since too much can leave lips feeling dry or irritated. As a general guideline, use it no more than once or twice a day.

How Luma Lips Compares with Other Lip Plumpers

There are many lip plumpers on the market, each with its own mix of ingredients. When comparing them, look at the ingredient list. Luma Lips contains hyaluronic acid, vitamin E, palmitoyl oligopeptide, and capsaicin, while other lip plumpers may use menthol, cinnamon, or ginger.

Most plumping glosses create a temporary tingling or warming feel. Menthol tends to feel cooling, while capsaicin feels warming. Consider your preferences and any sensitivities when choosing.

Luma Lips has a clear, glossy formula that can be worn alone or over other lip products, so you can keep using your favorite lipstick.

Conclusion

Luma Lips is a lip plumping gloss designed to give lips a temporary fuller, smoother, more moisturized look. Results vary from person to person, depending on your lips and how you use it. Patch test first and follow the directions.

Shop Luma Lips lip plumping gloss