There's a distinction that completely changes treatment: the fine surface lines that appear when periocular skin is dehydrated aren't wrinkles. They're dehydration lines — and they respond to intense hydration, not anti-ageing actives. Treating dehydration lines with peptides and bakuchiol is investing in the wrong active. Understanding the difference comes first.

Dehydration Line vs. Structural Wrinkle

Dehydration line: appears or worsens with tiredness, dehydration or after a flight. Visible on skin that looks 'crepey' at the surface. Disappears or significantly improves with intense hydration in 24–48 hours. No visible volume loss.

Structural wrinkle: present regardless of hydration level. Persists even with well-hydrated skin. Associated with collagen and elastin loss. Requires renewal actives (bakuchiol, peptides).

What Dry Periocular Skin Needs

• High molecular weight HA — immediate surface hydration without risk
• Panthenol (provitamin B5) — soothing, barrier-restoring
• Ceramides — the periocular area has no sebaceous glands and loses ceramides quickly
• No fragrances, no essential oils — the conjunctival mucosa is extremely sensitive

The Night Sequence for Very Dry Eye Skin

1. Anti-ageing eye serum (bakuchiol + vitamin C) on slightly damp skin
2. Wait 30 seconds
3. Soothing eye cream on top — seals and adds the occlusive layer