When it comes to skin care, the question of whether you really need an eye cream has likely crossed your mind. After all, given the cost of living crisis, it can be tempting to leave the under-eye hydration situation to your every day moisturiser! However, according to Mathilde Thomas, the visionary co-founder of Caudalie – the cult beauty brand that’s almost as synonymous with croissants when it comes to the City of Love – eye cream is not just an indulgence but an essential part of your routine. As co-founder of France’s #1 anti-ageing skin care line, Mathilde’s expertise is undeniable. Here’s her eye opening explanation as to why eye cream deserves a permanent place in your beauty cabinet.

Bordeaux beauty beginnings

Caudalie’s meteoric rise to fame is no accident. Its unique blend of luxurious skin care, groundbreaking science, and eco-consciousness has captured the hearts (and peepers) of beauty lovers around the world. “Caudalie was born out of my deep connection to nature and my desire to create skin care that truly works while respecting the planet,” explains Mathilde. The brand’s journey began in the vineyards of Bordeaux, where Mathilde first discovered the incredible antioxidant power of grapevine polyphenols. “I wanted to bring these natural treasures to the world by combining them with cutting-edge science,” she says. For Mathilde, luxury is not just about indulgence; “it’s about creating products that are effective, safe, and sustainable.” This philosophy shines through in every Caudalie product. Especially their eye creams.

Getting real with Resveratrol

Anyone familiar with Caudalie will recognise Resveratrol as the cornerstone of their anti-ageing line. But why exactly is it so effective? “Resveratrol is a game-changer in anti-ageing,” says Mathilde. “It’s a powerful antioxidant derived from grapevine stalks, which helps stimulate collagen production, increase skin elasticity, and protect against environmental damage.” Unlike retinol, which can be harsh and irritating for some, Resveratrol is much gentler, yet still highly effective. “When paired with natural hyaluronic acid, as in our Resveratrol-Lift range, it provides a lifting and firming effect while keeping the skin hydrated and soothed.” In fact, Mathilde reveals that the Resveratrol-Lift range is “clinically proven to be 3x more effective than Retinol in terms of collagen production.”

Science meets nature … with a little help from Harvard

Caudalie’s commitment to pushing the boundaries of skin care innovation took a giant leap forward with its partnership with Harvard Medical School. “Our partnership with Harvard Medical School has been pivotal in pushing the boundaries of what’s possible with Resveratrol,” Mathilde explains. “Together, we discovered a revolutionary synergy between Resveratrol and natural hyaluronic acid that enhances its anti-ageing properties.” This collaboration led to the creation of a patented formula that delivers clinically proven results. “Working with one of the world’s leading experts in ageing science ensures that our products are not only innovative but also grounded in the latest research.”

Vegan collagen is a very good idea

Caudalie’s Firming Eye Gel Cream introduces another breakthrough: Vegan Collagen 1. Derived sustainably from plant sources, this bioidentical collagen mimics the collagen naturally found in our skin. “Vegan Collagen 1 is bioidentical to the collagen naturally found in our skin but is derived from plants, making it a cleaner, more ethical choice,” Mathilde shares. It strengthens the skin’s structure, improves elasticity, and smooths fine lines, especially in the delicate eye area. “In the eye area, signs of ageing often appear first,” she adds, reinforcing the need for a targeted product.

So, do you need an eye cream?

The delicate skin around our eyes is often the first place to show signs of fatigue, fine lines, and puffiness, which is why it needs special attention. “The eye area is one of the thinnest and most sensitive parts of the face,” says Mathilde. “Making it particularly vulnerable to ageing, dryness, and fatigue.” This is why she advocates for an eye cream like Caudalie’s Firming Eye Gel Cream. “A targeted eye cream like our Firming Eye Gel Cream is specially formulated to address these unique needs. It hydrates, firms, and smooths this delicate area without causing irritation.” When it comes to maintaining a youthful, refreshed look, giving this part of your face the attention it deserves is key.

For those still wondering if an eye-specific product is really necessary, Mathilde has a definitive answer. “While facial creams are designed for the broader skin of the face, the Firming Eye Gel Cream is tailored specifically for the thinner, more sensitive eye area.” Its lightweight, gel-like texture absorbs quickly and doesn’t weigh down the skin, and its ingredients are carefully selected to minimise irritation. “The addition of ingredients like Vegan Collagen 1 and quinoa extract targets puffiness, fine lines, and dark circles – concerns that general facial creams often overlook.”

What are the most common eye concerns? “The most common concerns are fine lines, puffiness, and dark circles,” Mathilde notes. These issues can make the eyes look tired, aged, and less vibrant. Caudalie’s Firming Eye Gel Cream targets all three. “Resveratrol and Vegan Collagen 1 work to smooth and firm the skin, while natural peptides reduce puffiness and restore a more awake, refreshed look.” This gentle yet effective formula makes it suitable even for the most sensitive skin types.

Finally, Mathilde offers sage advice for anyone starting their anti-ageing skin care journey: “Start early and keep it simple. Protect your skin with SPF daily, hydrate thoroughly, and invest in high-quality products that address your specific needs.” For anti-ageing, she recommends a straightforward routine, “with a powerful serum, a moisturiser, and a specialised eye cream – like our Firming Eye Gel Cream.” Mathilde is firm in her belief that prevention is always easier than correction. “Nourishing and protecting your skin now will pay off in the long run.”

So, do you need eye cream? According to Mathilde Thomas, the answer is a resounding oui! Investing in a targeted eye cream like Caudalie’s Firming Eye Gel Cream isn’t just a luxury; it’s a wise, long-term commitment to maintaining a refreshed, youthful appearance. After all, luxury skin care doesn’t have to cost the earth – it should nourish both your skin and the planet.