I’m often asked why P.M. Eyelid Butter looks so luminescent and why it feels so smooth on delicate skin. The answer lies in its 3 liquid crystals that make our cholesterol complex. These cholesterols work together to moisturize, protect, and restore the eyelid skin barrier overnight.

Okay, So What Are Liquid Crystals?

You'll find liquid crystals on our ingredient list as "Cholesteryl Oleyl Carbonate, Cholesteryl Nonanoate, Cholesteryl Stearate." This cholesterol complex exhibits properties between a solid and a liquid. In P.M. Eyelid Butter, it looks shiny and glittery - a visual effect of the oils. The complex also enhances the texture of P.M. Eyelid Butter and also provides that luxurious, gooey goodness when applied to the eyelid skin. The primary benefit of liquid crystals is how they work with ceramides and fatty acids (in a specific ratio) to lock in moisture and to prevent trans epidermal water loss while sleeping. Let's break down the 3 liquid crystals of our cholesterol complex.

Cholesteryl Oleyl Carbonate

This ester of cholesterol and oleyl alcohol forms cholesteric liquid crystals with a helical structure. Interestingly, you’ll also find it in many makeup and hair color products that change with temperature.

Cholesteryl Nonanoate

Cholesteryl Nonanoate combines cholesterol with nonanoic acid. It creates opalescent or iridescent effects in formulations and it's a favorite in high-impact skin care systems.

Cholesteryl Stearate

This cholesterol ester is used for it's moisturizing and emollient properties and also acts as an emulsifier and viscosity controller. It moisturizes and softens skin.

Why Liquid Crystals Matter for Eyelid Skin

Enhanced Moisture & Visual Appeal

When you apply P.M. Eyelid Butter, the liquid crystals create a thin, uniform film. Think of that film as a gooey protective coating that locks in moisture (lipids) - giving it a visual sheen. It's both functional and elegant.

Texture & Barrier Support

These components reinforce the eyelid skin barrier! That's how my patients fix dry, flakey, red eyelid skin. In addition, liquid crystals improve spreadability and ensure the formula stays where you need it most—on your eyelids, not on your pillow.

HOW TO USE P.M. EYE BUTTER WITH LIQUID CRYSTALS

Start with a clean face. I recommend using the double cleanse method especially on the eye area. Gently tap P.M. Eyelid Butter along the upper and/or lower eyelids. See below and how I'm tapping 'dots' onto my under eye area. Gently tap with fingertips to spread and blend into the eyelid skin. 

Because P.M. Eyelid Butter is very thick; my patients with 'crepey' eyelid skin - there's definitely more pulling or tugging when applying. I have them use Focused Eye Roll to spread the eye cream. This ensures a very thin, even layer without having to use fingers that tug and pull. Wait 10-15 minutes before resting your head on your pillow. You’ll notice softer, more supple eyelid skin in about 30 days. I advise my patients to use it every night as the eyelid skin's repair cycles happen while you rest. 

About Dr. Tanya Gill, OD

“Hi, I'm Dr. Tanya Gill, optometrist and founder of We Love Eyes. And yes, I use P.M. Eyelid Butter every night:) I started We Love Eyes in 2014 while trying to help one of my (stubborn) patients with contact lens discomfort. In 2016, I had 3 products. Fast forward to today - We Love Eyes has almost 30 SKUs. It's been amazing a journey.  Explore my life's work at weloveeyes.com. Check out the GOT AN EYE PROBLEM section to discover my cleansing systems. I also have a ton of content at TIKTOK. See the profile page and see the playlists. xo