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- Our Top Picks
- Best for Wrinkles
- Best Gel
- Best for Dark Circles
- Best for Puffy Eyes
Being full of energy is often viewed as a sign of health, but how many people are actually getting the rest required to constantly appear alert? I'm not, but I use a high-quality eye cream that gives me a rested appearance and boosts my confidence, even when I haven't had a full eight hours of sleep. I also have different eye creams to address swelling, dark circles, and fine lines, depending on the time of day and my mood.
Rachel Westbay, MD, a dermatologist at Marmur Medical in New York City, supports this method. Morning moisturizers should focus on safeguarding and enhancing skin tone using components such as vitamin C andniacinamide, while night creams should focus on restoration using collagen-boosting peptides,retinol, and moisturizing components such ashyaluronic acid, she says.
If you don't wish to fill your bathroom cabinet with as many products as I do, the writers and editors at Everyday Health aimed to identify the top eye creams available. We evaluated 42 products designed to address puffiness, dark circles, wrinkles, and moisture. Following consultations with dermatologists, we reviewed testing results to compile a list of the best eye cream to incorporate into your daily (and nightly) skincare regimen.
Our Favorite Eye Creams
- Best for Wrinkles:Ole Henriksen Banana Bright Eye Cream
- Best Gel:Cetaphil Hydrating Eye Gel-Cream
- Best for Dark Circles:RoC Retinol Correxion Eye Cream
- Best for Puffy Eyes:Grace & Stella Eye Serum for Puffiness
- Best Multitasker:Estée Lauder Advanced Night Repair Eye Supercharged Gel-Creme
- Best for Fine Lines:The Inkey List Caffeine Eye Cream
- Best for Sensitive Skin:Axis-Y Vegan Collagen Eye Serum
- Best for Day Use: Eucerin Brightening Eye Cream
- Best for Eye Area Makeup:Peter Thomas Roth Instant Firmx Temporary Eye Tightener
- Best With Sunscreen:EltaMD UV AOX Eye Broad Spectrum SPF 30
Best for Wrinkles
Ole Henriksen Banana Bright Eye Cream
Pros
- Significantly diminishes the appearance of laugh lines Clearly lessens the visibility of fine lines around the eyes Noticeably reduces the look of wrinkles at the corners of the eyes Effectively minimizes the appearance of eye creases Visibly eases the look of facial lines near the eyes Clearly decreases the prominence of wrinkles around the eyes Noticeably softens the appearance of crow's feet Effectively reduces the visibility of eye lines Visibly lessens the look of wrinkles at the outer corners of the eyes Clearly diminishes the appearance of fine lines around the eyes
- Provides significant hydration
- Ideal for use beneath cosmetics
Cons
- Arrives in a container; requires application with hands
- Can feel a little tacky
Key Specs
- Skin Type:All, sensitive
- Key Ingredients:Vitamin C
- Packaging:Jar
- Fragrance:None
Best Gel
Cetaphil Hydrating Eye Gel-Cream
Pros
- Unique gel-cream hybrid
- Lightweight yet moisturizing
- Absorbs well
Cons
- Less effective for severe wrinkles or dark circles
- Some report burning sensation
Key Specs
- Skin Type:All
- Key Ingredients:Hyaluronic acid
- Packaging:Squeeze-tube
- Fragrance:None
Cetaphil Hydrating Eye Gel-Cream features a special hybrid formula that blends the intense hydration of a cream with the light, quick-absorbing qualities of a gel. This makes it suitable for all skin types, particularly those who enjoy a light, cooling feel that's also rich enough to address dryness around the eyes, which can make fine lines more visible. It provided a refreshing coolness immediately after application, with no residue or stickiness, according to the editor.Lili Ladaga, who tested this cream for us. She described the consistency as light and smooth, and mentioned that gel-cream combinations are effective at avoiding the heavy, oily sensation often linked with thick moisturizers.
Although this did not occur with Ladaga, our research revealed that some individuals feel a burning sensation in the under-eye region after using the product. If you have particularly sensitive skin, it's something to consider before making a purchase.
Best for Dark Circles
RoC Retinol Correxion Line-Reducing Eye Cream
Pros
- Retinol that releases slowly is effective and has a low risk of causing dryness.
- Lightweight formula
- Easily absorbed
- Fragrance-free, hypoallergenic, and non-comedogenic
Cons
- Might require gradual introduction
- Must apply sunscreen with the product
Key Specs
- Skin Type:All, dark circles
- Key Ingredients:Retinol
- Packaging:Squeeze-tube
- Fragrance:None
Stankorb, who regularly uses products containing retinol and has a good tolerance for it, warned that those new to retinol might initially feel some sensitivity. If you're not accustomed to retinol, it's advisable to start slowly, but she didn't have any issues using it both in the morning and at night. She was excited about how effective a small amount of it is, noting, Despite its compact size, it lasts just as long as some bigger containers.
Best for Puffy Eyes
Grace & Stella Eye Serum for Puffiness
Pros
- Cooling rollerball offers immediate relief
- Caffeine quickly helps with water retention
- Convenient for reapplication throughout the day
Cons
- It's difficult to determine how much serum you're using
- Serum doesn't offer much hydration
Key Specs
- Skin Type:All, puffy
- Key Ingredients:Caffeine, hyaluronic acid, retinol, and niacinamide
- Packaging:Roll-tip applicator
- Fragrance:No
I tried this eye cream personally and continue to use it first thing in the morning and before applying a heavier cream at night. When my eyes feel particularly tired, irritated, or puffy, I apply it multiple times throughout the day for an immediate cooling effect. I noticed improvements within two weeks, and with regular use, puffiness is no longer an issue for me. My only issues are that it doesn't hydrate as effectively as thicker eye creams and that the packaging doesn't show how much product remains.
Best Multitasker
Estée Lauder Advanced Night Repair Eye Supercharged Gel-Creme
Pros
- Peptides contribute to skin elasticity
- Hyaluronic acid retains water content
- Spreads easily
- Absorbs well
Cons
- High price point
- Long ingredients list
Key Specs
- Skin Type:Mature, dry, all
- Key Ingredients:Peptides, hyaluronic acid
- Packaging:Jar
- Fragrance:None
I observed that my dark circles under the eyes were less visible, Gallagher mentioned, following three weeks of using the eye cream. It performs better than most other eye creams I have tried.
Although the website states that this product is free from synthetic fragrance, lavender is included as an ingredient, which means individuals with sensitivities, even to natural scents, should consider a patch test before applying it to the sensitive skin around the eyes. It's worth mentioning that Gallagher found no fragrance during testing.
Best for Fine Lines
The Inkey List Caffeine Eye Cream
Pros
- Formula smooths and nourishes the skin
- Peptides assist in promoting skin regeneration
- Caffeine helps to de-puff
Cons
- Some accumulation of product may take place
Key Specs
- Skin Type:Mature, puffy
- Key Ingredients:Peptides, caffeine
- Packaging:Fine-tip tube
- Fragrance:None
Best for Sensitive Skin
Axis-Y Vegan Collagen Eye Serum
Pros
- Gentle formula
- Cool metal roller-ball applicator
- Absorbs well
Cons
- Not as smooth as certain items on our list
- Results are subtle
Key Specs
- Skin Type:Sensitive
- Key Ingredients:Collagen, peptides, hyaluronic acid
- Packaging:Metal pump roller-ball applicator
- Fragrance:None
Axis-Y Vegan Collagen Eye Serum is a great choice for individuals with delicate skin, as it features mild moisturizers applied through a chilled metal applicator.Julia Childs HeylI really enjoyed using this rollerball, going so far as to claim it performed better than an eye roller from a high-end brand that costs three times as much. Heyl, who has under-eye circles, appreciated the product's brief list of ingredients. I'm a big fan of clean beauty, and the packaging of this product definitely matched that philosophy, she mentioned. The formula that's gentle on sensitive skin contains sources of vitamins C and A, peptides, and collagen to help improve skin elasticity, along with hyaluronic acid to hydrate the skin, giving it a plumper look and reducing the appearance of fine lines. Heyl also didn't have any sensitivity issues with this fragrance-free product.
Heyl appreciated the distinctive pump applicator rollerball. Previously, she had used eye products that only featured a rollerball, and she found it difficult to determine if any product was actually being dispensed, she mentioned. Over time, she observed a slight improvement in the darkness under her eyes and noted that she appeared more alert.
Best for Day Use
Eucerin Brightening Eye Cream
Pros
- Gentle formulation is appropriate for daytime use
- Metal applicator aids in minimizing the appearance of swelling
- Layers well under makeup
Cons
- Significant under-eye shadows may require a more potent formulation
- Not intended to reduce the appearance of wrinkles
Key Specs
- Skin Type:Normal
- Key Ingredients:Hyaluronic acid, Thiamidol
- Packaging:Metal applicator
- Fragrance:None
Regarding value, this budget-friendly product also dispenses well, so I don't believe there will be much leftover at the end, Ziegler mentioned. If you're seeking a mild, daytime product that blends well and maintains moisture in the eye area throughout the day, this is perfect.
Best for Undereye Makeup
Peter Thomas Roth Instant Firmx Temporary Eye Tightener
Pros
- Offers a powerful, immediate tightening and smoothing effect
- Significantly diminishes swelling and fine lines around the eyes right away
- Provides a perfect, wrinkle-free foundation for applying cosmetics
Cons
- Effect is temporary
- Takes three minutes to prepare correctly
Key Specs
- Skin Type:Mature, all
- Key Ingredients:Silicates, peptides
- Packaging:Squeeze-tube
- Fragrance:None
Best With Sunscreen
EltaMD UV AOX Eye Broad Spectrum SPF 30
Pros
- Offers gentle SPF 30 protection
- Features skin-friendly antioxidants and peptides
- Airless pump dispenser
Cons
- Could be too heavy when wearing makeup
- Sunscreen should be reapplied every two hours to ensure maximum effectiveness.
Key Specs
- Skin Type:All, sensitive
- Key Ingredients:Zinc oxide (SPF 30), anti-oxidants, peptides
- Packaging:Airless dispenser
- Fragrance:None
Because sunscreen protection and correct usage ofsunscreenThe most effective methods to prevent early aging signs include using EltaMD UV AOX Eye for daytime. This product offers comprehensive mineral protection along with specialized eye care. It features zinc oxide for physical sun blocking and includes antioxidants and peptides to help reduce existing fine lines and wrinkles. WriterJen Sinclair, who has sensitive skin, had a good experience with this product and didn't have any irritation. She found the texture to be light, smooth, and silky, and liked that it works well with makeup. She applied it using her fingers because it's tinted and needs to blend in with the rest of her skin or makeup. She mentioned that it took a little while to absorb.
For individuals seeking a tinted sunscreen as an alternative to concealer, Sinclair found this to be a great option, noting that it functions effectively as a light concealer for hiding dark circles with a subtle shine. It's ideal for those who prefer a simple makeup routine with a touch of SPF 30 sparkle. We also appreciate the airless pump dispenser, which maintains the product's freshness during use.
Comparison Table
Other Prominent Eye Creams We Tested
Neutrogena Hydro Boost + Caffeine Eye CreamThis widely loved gel-cream is recognized for its light consistency and instant cooling sensation, which effectively calms tired eyes. The key component is hyaluronic acid for deep moisture, along with caffeine to minimize morning swelling. Its non-oily formula makes it an affordable essential for everyday use beneath makeup. We appreciate this item, although we observed a minor tingling feeling on the skin around the eyes when applying it.
Colorescience Total Eye 3-in-1 Anti-Aging Rejuvenation TreatmentThis product offers SPF 35 mineral sun protection. It also includes peptides to enhance firmness, and the gentle tint helps reduce the appearance of dark circles while evening out skin tone. Keep in mind that its thick, creamy texture needs careful blending, particularly on dry skin. Additionally, being one of the more expensive options on our list, it didn't provide as significant a result in lightening dark circles.
Olay Super Eyes Daily Eye SerumThe effective blend of niacinamide and different peptides helps to reinforce the skin's protective layer and significantly reduce the appearance of fine lines over time. It penetrates easily, making it a great option for individuals looking for proven, scientific anti-aging benefits without the heaviness of a traditional cream. Priced at $35 per bottle, though, we felt it was somewhat expensive for a drugstore brand.
Drunk Elephant's C-Tango Multi-Vitamin Eye CreamThis cream is praised for providing a visible brightening effect, due to its combination of five types of vitamin C. We appreciated its hydrating properties and its ability to enhance skin elasticity, although the thicker consistency means a small amount is sufficient to prevent a heavy feeling. The appealing packaging makes it a great gift option, but in the end, we found other products on our list offered comparable ingredients at a more affordable cost.
Clinique All About Eyes Serum: Eye Massage for Reducing Puffiness and Dark CirclesThis serum contains components such as caffeine to help refresh the appearance of dark circles resulting from tiredness. It is most suitable for quick, cooling relief rather than as a strong moisturizer for extremely dry skin. In the end, we discovered other roller-ball products to be more effective, although this one is a traditional choice.
How We Selected the Top Eye Creams
To identify the top eye creams, we conducted research, performed tests, and gathered input from board-certified dermatologists regarding a broad range of products. Writers and editors from Everyday Health evaluated 42 different options, keeping track of aspects like ingredients, formula consistency, absorption rate, presence of scent, and, naturally, the variety of outcomes. Following an analysis of the data, we finalized our list to our 10 preferred choices.
We asked Michele Green, MD, a board-certified cosmetic dermatologist based in New York City, andRachel Westbay, MD, a board-certified cosmetic dermatologist at Marmur Medical in New York City, shared their top suggestions for skin-friendly ingredients, as well as which components are most effective for addressing various skin issues. We also asked them for advice on how to use eye creams to get the best outcomes.
What to Consider When Purchasing Eye Cream
For Delicate Lines and Folds:Westbay prefers retinol and suggests using mild, low-concentration products to enhance collagen production and improve skin texture. She also chooses collagen-boosting peptides, which she explains prompt the skin to generate more collagen and elastin. Additionally, hyaluronic acid is effective for plumping and hydrating fine lines.
To Target Puffiness:Westbay suggests using caffeine to alleviate puffiness around the eyes. It acts as an antioxidant and anti-inflammatory agent to decrease swelling and blood vessel congestion, she explains.
For Dark Circles:To reduce dark circles, Westbay suggests a formulation containing vitamin C. She mentions the antioxidant's capacity to prevent the production of melanin pigment, which aids in evening out skin tone. She also favors niacinamide, which minimizes hyperpigmentation by interrupting a segment of the pigment process. Caffeine may also be beneficial in this context, as it narrows blood vessels, thereby decreasing bluish discoloration, as noted by Westbay.
Things to Steer Clear Of When Purchasing Eye Cream
How to Properly Use Eye Cream
Proper application of eye cream is crucial, as Westbay explains that the skin around the eyes and eyelids is sensitive and fragile. [U]se a amount the size of a pea for both eyes, she advises. Gently tap with the ring finger along the bone surrounding the eye socket (not too near the lash line to prevent movement). Dr. Green notes that the cream can be spread onto the upper eyelid, but should stop at the crease to keep it away from the eye itself.
Westbay recommends using brightening creams, such as those containing vitamin C; moisturizing products, like those with hyaluronic acid; and serums that can reduce swelling, such as those with caffeine, in the morning prior to applying sunscreen. In the evening, apply it as the final step before moisturizer, she advises.
How long before you notice improvements from using eye creams?
FAQs
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Jill Di Donato
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Jill brings more than 15 years of expertise in covering topics related to women's health, well-being, and beauty. She possesses extensive insight into trending products and the factors that contribute to their popularity among customers. Throughout her career, she has evaluated hundreds of skincare items, devices, and medical aesthetic treatments. Additionally, she has spoken with leading dermatologists, plastic surgeons, and holistic doctors to remain up-to-date on the newest developments in skin health and wellness.
Jill previously served as the associate editorial operations director for the beauty division at Dotdash Meredith, where she was involved with publications like Shape and Byrdie, focusing on editing content related to health, fitness, skincare, wellness, and body care commerce.
She previously worked as a sex and relationships writer and has appeared on national television to talk about sexual wellness for women. Along with topics related to beauty and sexual wellness, Jill focuses on writing about body neutrality and mental health.
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Jacquelyn Dosal, MD, is a certified dermatologist who works at The Dermatology House located in Park City, Utah. She specializes in treating acne, rosacea, integrative approaches for inflammatory skin conditions, and laser procedures as well as injectable therapies for the skin.
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Jill Di Donato
Tester
Jill brings more than 15 years of expertise in covering topics related to women's health, well-being, and beauty. She possesses extensive insight into trending products and the factors that contribute to their popularity among consumers. Throughout her career, she has evaluated hundreds of skincare items, tools, and medical aesthetic treatments. Additionally, she has spoken with leading dermatologists, plastic surgeons, and holistic doctors to remain up-to-date on the newest developments in skin health and wellness.
Jill previously served as the associate editorial operations director for the beauty division at Dotdash Meredith, where she was involved with publications like Shape and Byrdie, focusing on editing content related to health, fitness, skincare, wellness, and body care commerce.
She previously worked as a sex and relationships writer and has appeared on national television to talk about sexual wellness for women. Along with topics related to beauty and sexual wellness, Jill focuses on writing about body neutrality and mental health.
Jill holds a sociology degree, specializing in gender studies, and has instructed sociology courses at Barnard and Columbia University.
Grace Gallagher
Tester
Grace Gallagher is a writer who has spent almost ten years covering topics related to health and wellness, with a particular emphasis on hair care, sexual health, pregnancy, and raising children. In addition, she serves full-time as the primary hair health contributor for the Hims blog.
Grace earned a bachelor's degree from Hobart William Smith College and an MFA in creative writing from Hunter College, with her work featured inHealth, Shape, Verywell Mind and Verywell Health,Parents, Romper, Healthline, Greatist, and others.
Julia Childs Heyl, MSW
Tester
Julia Childs Heyl, MSW, is a clinical social worker and mental health author based in California. Her work frequently addresses mental health inequalities and employs critical race theory as her main theoretical approach. She has contributed to publications such as Verywell Mind, Health,Parents, Shape, Yahoo, and more.
In her professional practice, Julia focuses on helping individuals of color who are dealing with anxiety, depression, and trauma using depth therapy and EMDR (eye movement desensitization and reprocessing) trauma treatment. As a clinician with a holistic approach, Julia sees mental health as an interaction among the soul, personal identity, and the broader systems that shape our lives. Her early training involved creating mental health programs tailored for Black survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault, as well as researching intergenerational trauma within the Black community.
Lili Ladaga
Tester
Jen Sinclair
Tester
Jen Sinclair is a self-employed health and wellness writer who has dedicated the past two years to creating in-depth articles and evaluations of mental health and medical services and products. Her writing has appeared in Verywell Mind, Verywell Health,Health, and ParentsPreviously, she spent six years working as a copywriter and blog writer for various legal and healthcare companies, and 15 years as a paralegal.
Jen now resides in St. Augustine, Florida, along with her husband and kids. She loves being outside, whether it's kayaking on waterways, driving with the top down in her Jeep, or hiking with her fellow writer friends who also enjoy exploring the trails.
Katie Tuttle
Tester
Katie Tuttle is an editor and author who focuses on topics related to food, health, and product evaluation. Her writing has been featured inEatingWell, Food & Wine, The Spruce Eats, and Real Simple. She has written on topics such as meal kits, kitchen equipment, fitness, and well-being, and has evaluated and provided reviews on numerous products, with a special emphasis on meal delivery services and their effects on nutrition and ease of use.
In addition to food, Katie has explored fitness and wellness subjects, using her personal experience as a powerlifter and occasional runner. She is consistently interested in how products and services can make healthy living more attainable and convenient.
When she's not studying or writing, Katie is often surrounded by indoor plants or spending time with a foster dog. She strongly feels there's no such thing as having too many books or too much coffee.
Ashley Ziegler
Tester
Ashley Ziegler is a professional writer who has significant expertise in topics such as women's health, children's and babies' health, mental well-being, and overall wellness. Her articles have been featured on sites like The Bump,Health, Pregnancy & Newborn, People, Parents, Jumpsuit, Scary Mommy, and others.
Prior to focusing entirely on her writing profession, Ashley held positions in the pediatric cardiology and general medicine departments at Duke University Medical Center, as well as at the North Carolina Medical Board. While pursuing her undergraduate studies, she studied communications at Purdue University and subsequently obtained her master's degree with a focus on healthcare management from Indiana Wesleyan University.
Ashley resides in North Carolina with her husband and two young daughters. During her spare time, she likes to read, go for walks, attend barre classes, and listen to her favorite podcasts.
Nicole Bonaccorso
Tester
Nicole Bonaccorso is a journalist and editor who has worked in the field for over 12 years. She has contributed to Everyday Health since 2025 and has also written for NBCNews.com, Treehugger, Verywell, Mashable, and Upworthy, along with other outlets.
Nicole served as a senior editor at Weather.com for over 11 years, focusing on topics ranging from weather and climate change to health, science, and travel.
Besides writing, Nicole has developed a strong interest in assisting new parents in achieving their breastfeeding objectives and is pursuing certification as a breastfeeding expert.
Nicole likes to go hiking, camp, cook, read, and be outside with her two young sons, her husband, and her dog during her spare time.
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- Pintea A et al. Peptides: New Options for Preventing and Treating Skin Aging: A Review.Biomolecules. January 2025.
- Frey C et al. Thiamidol: A Revolutionary Advance in Addressing Excess Pigmentation.Journal of Dermatological Drugs. June 1, 2025.
- Bains P et al. Silicone in Dermatological Practices: A Recent Overview.Journal of Skin and Aesthetic Surgery. April 2023.
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