A Melbourne-based dermal therapist, James Vivian, has suggested that a simple beauty hack may be hiding in plain sight: using lip balm around the eyes to combat early signs of ageing. In a recent video shared with his 21,000 followers, the 42-year-old explained that he applies lip balm not only to his lips but also to the delicate skin around his eyes.
The Reasoning Behind the Hack
According to Vivian, the area around his eyes shows the most signs of ageing, despite not having spent much time in the sun. He noted that lip balms containing hydrating and skin-plumping ingredients can provide similar benefits to the eye area, helping to support the thin and fragile skin there. Most lip balms are designed to deeply hydrate and condition delicate skin, making them suitable for other fragile areas of the face.
Benefits of Extra Hydration
Even without active ingredients, the added moisture from lip balm can make a visible difference. Vivian stated that it helps soften the appearance of fine lines and dehydration lines, brightens the area, and keeps it hydrated and protected. The skin around the eyes is one of the thinnest on the body, making it prone to dryness and early ageing, while lip balms are packed with occlusive and emollient ingredients that lock in moisture.
Important Precautions
However, Vivian stressed that not all lip balms are suitable for use around the eyes. He advised against using balms with stimulating ingredients, such as those that cause a tingling or plumping sensation, often referred to as "bee sting" products. These can irritate the delicate eye area. Additionally, he noted that this trick may not work well under makeup, as the texture of lip balm can disrupt concealer and cause creasing.
Cost-Effective Alternative
With eye creams and serums often costing $50 or more, this low-effort addition to a daily routine could save beauty enthusiasts hundreds of dollars per year. Vivian emphasised that if you are concerned about an area, being proactive with simple treatments can be effective.
Previous Beauty Advice
This is not the first time Vivian has offered unconventional beauty tips. He previously warned against spraying perfume directly on the neck, as fragrances can contain photosensitising ingredients that make skin more vulnerable to UV damage, leading to a condition called poikiloderma of Civatte, which causes patchy pigmentation, redness, and visible blood vessels. He recommends spraying perfume on clothing, hair, or areas not exposed to sunlight.
