Unless you opt for wearing huge dark sunglasses and rock the mysterious look under a gorgeous hat, there is no question about the fact that the skin around our eyes tells a sorry tale in the dry, winter months and hibernation seems like a very good idea when those lines start to become crack-like.

But help is at hand and I have been testing a few products which have yielded pleasant results, so I'm happy to turn a blind eye when it comes to the Garbo gear and I'm also happy to share the solutions...

Firstly, i'll go high-end with one of my favourites, Filorga, French skincare brand which is always innovative and bloody brilliant. I am definitely hooked on the Optim-Eyes Express Anti-Fatigue Eye Patch-

The patches have a gel-film texture that fits perfectly around the eye area. I have used these on 3 separate occasions (before date night!) and I have been so impressed- they are soaked with serum and you leave them on for about 10-15 minutes, or more if you have the time. There is almost an instant soothing and freshening sensation and the skin really looks hydrated afterwards. Just peel off and pat the residue around the eyes. Great product which comes in a box that contains 8 single-use blister packs and retails for R670.

Another option is The SVR French brand which is available at Clicks and has a fabulous pedigree of efficacy and tolerance in the field of dermo-cosmetics. It won't break the bank either, which is a win. There are many ranges which are suitable for all skin types but surprise, surprise, the anti- ageing Densitium range was the one that caught my eye, so to speak...

The Contour Yeux (R345) promises to reduce slackening of the eyelids, puffiness and dark circles. Now I haven't been using it for very long, so I can't say it does all of the above, but in my view, the ingredients are all goodies (ultra-fragmented hyaluronic acid- 60x greater skin penetration and Bio-Calcium which reinforces the skin barrier). It comes in a pump (yay!) and half a pump does both eyes. I really like the serum-like consistency as it's easily absorbed and not at all sticky so I will definitely continue to use it.

Filorga is available at Edgars and Red Square stores.

SVR available at Clicks