Well-Rested Eyes, Right This Way: 22 Eye Creams That Work, From $12 (2024)

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TL;DR

BeautyStat Universal C Eye Perfector is the gold standard as far as eye creams go. It scored well in our testing, leaving the delicate skin under the eyes velvety smooth and less wrinkled. Byrdie testers also adore the budget-friendly RoC Retinol Correxion Eye Cream, which addresses not only lines but dark circles, crow’s feet, and puffiness with its mineral complex.

Our Top Picks

Active Ingredients: Vitamin C, hyaluronic acid, green tea extract | Benefits: Boosts radiance and smooths skin | Best for: All skin types | Fragrance-Free: Yes | Size: 0.5 oz | Cruelty-Free: Yes

This line was created by a cosmetic chemist, so expect the most efficacious ingredients and pairings within its formula. One ingredient in particular is vitamin C, which not only harnesses the power of antioxidants, but can help stimulate collagen production, diminishing the look of fine lines and smoothing skin tone in the process. In fact, this formula uses a 5% concentration of a pure, patented, and extra-stable version of vitamin C plus CBD to help tamp down inflammation and puffiness.

It also contains hyaluronic acid and green tea extract to increase collagen synthesis. Our tester, Jenna, found this product to be a great makeup primer, instantly leaving her under eyes velvety-smooth. By the end of the three-week testing period, she also noticed a slight reduction in fine lines and dark circles—and a noticeable improvement in dryness, skin texture, and puffiness.

Alaina, tester: "This product did improve my (always very noticeable) dark circles. This cream made my skin much softer, and it felt very hydrating."

Active Ingredients: Retinol | Benefits: Smooths lines and de-puffs eyes | Best for: All skin types | Fragrance-Free: No | Size: 0.5 oz | Cruelty-Free: No

When it comes to finding an affordable, effective eye cream, dermatologists recommend this formula time and time again. It boasts the anti-aging superstar retinol and addresses not only lines but dark circles, crow’s feet, and puffiness with its mineral complex, giving you plenty of bang for your buck. The lightweight formula is also noncomedogenic (meaning it won’t clog your pores), and hypoallergenic. Since it contains retinol, we recommend you start applying it just a couple of times a week at first to see how your skin tolerates it before slowly increasing your usage. However, our tester, Mary, has sensitive skin and didn't have any issues with this eye cream and rather found it to be hydrating and soothing.

Mary, tester: "I could tell the puffiness under my eyes decreased after a week of using this product. I did notice some improvements to the dark circles under my eyes after two weeks of using this product. This product also firmed up the skin under my eyes. The skin didn't seem as dark, so that was a big win for me!"

Active Ingredients: Retinol, hyaluronic acid | Benefits: Evens skin tone and reduces crow's feet | Best for: Mature skin | Fragrance-Free: Yes | Size: 0.5 oz | Cruelty-Free: No

This one of the most effective drugstore eye creams we tested. It boasts tried-and-true retinol coupled with a glucose complex that works to speed up retinol’s effects. What’s more, the potent formula can smooth out crow’s feet, conceal dark circles, and generally even out the tone and texture of dry skin around the eyes thanks to added hyaluronic acid. After only using this cream for a short time, our tester, Elena, noticed her fine lines softened and her skin felt tighter and firmer. This is also a dermatologist-approved formula, which is good news for anyone that’s worried about using retinol around the eyes.

Elena, tester: "I am beyond impressed with the improvement I've seen in my skin texture and the overall look of my eyes. I only used the product at night as recommended and with just that one application a day; I saw a vast improvement. The fine lines that were developing have seriously softened."

Active Ingredients: Vitamin C, jojoba oil, shea butter | Benefits: Boost radiance and hydrates | Best for: All skin types | Fragrance-Free: No | Size: 0.5 oz | Cruelty-Free: Yes

The formula is packed with vitamin C to deliver long-term illuminating benefits and collagen to improve elasticity and keep skin smooth. One ingredient you may be surprised to hear is in this formula is gold—yes, real gold. This helps to improve the delivery of vitamin C to the deeper layers of the dermis. Hardy orange extract also helps to illuminate dark spots and enhance the effectiveness of vitamin C. After using it consistently for two months, our under-eyes were significantly more hydrated, makeup went on smoother, and dark circles were neutralized with each application. Its featherweight, silky texture is ideal for use under makeup, and it contains color-correcting pigment to conceal dark circles and combat dullness.

Jennifer, tester: "It is thick and creamy. It spreads very easily, and feels luxurious on. I used this before makeup and the tint actually acted as a color corrector before I put on my concealer."

Active Ingredients: Caffeine, hyaluronic acid | Benefits: Reduces pigmentation and puffiness | Best for: All skin types | Fragrance-Free: Yes | Size: 1 oz | Cruelty-Free: Yes

Whether you pulled an all-nighter or just had one too many martinis the night before, a few drops of this caffeine eye serum by The Ordinary is the secret to quickly tamping down puffiness. It is suitable for all skin types and boasts a powerful concentration of caffeine—a choice de-puffer, thanks to its ability to constrict blood vessels. There’s also epigallocatechin gallate, also known as EGCG, an intense antioxidant derived from green tea leaves that further helps boost this formula’s de-puffing prowess. We found that the combination of EGCG and caffeine is like a refreshing cup of tea for your eyes—it wakes them up and gets them ready to face the day.

Active Ingredients: 7.9% titanium dioxide, 6.7% zinc oxide | Benefits: Protects against sun damage | Best for: All skin types | Fragrance-Free: Yes | Size: 0.2 oz | Cruelty-Free: Yes

Opt for a dedicated eye cream with SPF to use every morning. Tester Joline is a big fan of this SPF 35 formula that has a subtle tint (it comes in four shades) to instantly illuminate the eye area. It’s packed full of radiance-boosting ingredients, including seawater and marine algae to help firm and illuminate the under eyes, as well as a patented ingredient called Aldavine to reduce puffiness, and the humectant, phytomoist (proven to be four times more hydrating than hyaluronic acid). This powerful combination leaves the eyes glowy, and it’s even ophthalmologist-tested and suitable for sensitive eyes and contact lens wearers. Highlights also include a cooling metal applicator, which can help address inflammation and puffiness.

Active Ingredients: Caviar extract, ceramides | Benefits: Firm and tighten skin | Best for: All skin types | Fragrance-Free: No | Size: 0.7 oz | Cruelty-Free: No

The dual-phase serum blends encapsulated beads with a gel-cream emulsion, both loaded with the brand’s signature caviar extract. The formula also includes ceramides to nourish and plump delicate skin around the eyes, but reviewers note its lightweight skin feel. Its texture makes it a good choice for anyone prone to developing milia around the eyes. Our tester, Jenna, tested out the product for herself, and she loved that it made the under-eye area feel supple and soft and minimized the appearance of fine lines. This is for anyone who wants to treat the entire eye area and improve crow’s feet, dark circles, and puffiness.

Active Ingredients: Niacinamide, hyaluronic acid | Benefits: Hydrates | Best for: All skin types | Fragrance-Free: No | Size: 0.5 oz | Cruelty-Free: No

A gel formula is a great pick for those with oily skin, or those who might not like eye cream with a thick skin feel. Packed with lightweight moisture, the formula has a plumping effect on skin and includes hyaluronic acid. Jenna likes the way this Cetaphil Eye Cream soaks in quickly without any stickiness, and within a week, her under-eyes felt smoother and more hydrated. Also nice: It’s dermatologist-tested, ophthalmologist-tested, and hypoallergenic, making it another good pick for those with sensitive skin or eyes.

Jenna Igneri, beauty writer: "As soon as I patted this eye cream all over my eye area, my skin instantly felt refreshed, smooth, and moisturized—it didn’t visibly look plumper or more awake, but it felt amazing. The product never felt heavy or greasy."

Active Ingredients: Ferulic acid, willow bark extract | Benefits: Smooth lines | Best for: Oily, combination, normal skin | Fragrance-Free: No | Size: 0.5 oz | Cruelty-Free: Yes

This powerful retinol eye cream contains a Phyto-Retinol Blend that comprises retinol—the vitamin A derivative that’s well-known for effectively stimulating collagen production to smooth out wrinkles—ferulic acid, a standout antioxidant to help prevent environmental damage, and finally, bakuchiol, a gentler alternative to retinol that improves collagen production and visibly reduces fine lines. The best part? It does all of this without creating any irritation. Our advice: Start slow and build up your frequency of use. We love the texture of this lightweight formula—it’s sheer enough to wear on lids in addition to under and around the eyes.

Active Ingredients: Avocado oil, shea butter | Benefits: Moisturizes | Best for: All skin types | Fragrance-Free: Yes | Size: 0.5 oz | Cruelty-Free: No

We think this is the ultimate hydrating eye cream (so strong that it can also be slathered on and used as an under-eye mask). This eye cream makes a great base for concealer, as reviewers note it helps grip makeup. Avocado oil, shea butter, and beta-carotene (aka carrot extract) hydrate without feeling greasy (though we suggest only using a pea-sized amount). We were impressed with immediate results—after applying the cream, our under-eyes looked brighter and smoother and the level of hydration lasted all day. Overtime, our fine lines seemed to soften as well. A little bit goes a long way, but we wish it came in a jumbo size to have even more product on-hand.

Michelle, tester: "I was able to see immediate results. My eyes looked brighter and the skin looked smoother. Fine lines appeared less visible, and I was pleased with the overall feel of my skin around my eyes afterwards."

Active Ingredients: Hyaluronic acid, niacinamide, vitamin E | Benefits: Moisturizes and reduces puffiness | Best for: All skin types | Fragrance-Free: Yes | Size: 0.5 oz | Cruelty-Free: Yes

One of the best ways to treat puffy under-eyes is with a cool compress, and this applicator makes it easy. Whether you store the tube in the fridge or not, the smooth metal tip provides a cooling sensation that helps wake up tired eyes. (Not to mention it's less messy than sticking your fingers in a jar). The formula contains a slew of organic ingredients that help moisturize and plump your skin, such as hyaluronic acid, niacinamide, vitamin E, and shea butter. Our tester, Emily, loves the gentle, moisturizing formula.

Emily Cieslak, associate commerce editor: "I'm always nervous to try new eye creams because certain formulas sting and dry out my skin. From the first time I applied this one, it felt soothing and hydrating. I wouldn't say it has filled out my under-eyes and I still get dark circles, but my skin looks a lot more moisturized."

Active Ingredients: FR-Defense technology, hyaluronic acid, concentrated repair technology | Benefits: Brightens, recharges, repairs, hydrates | Best for: All skin types | Fragrance-Free: No | Size: 0.5 oz | Cruelty-Free: Yes

According to the brand, this silky eye cream will illuminate dark circles in just two weeks. Besides targeting this issue in all locations (e.g., under-eyes, eyelids, inner corners, etc.), the cream also reduces the appearance of fine lines and dullness by boosting hydration and plumping the area. It does this with a trio of skin-boosting ingredients, including hyaluronic acid, the antioxidant vitamin E, and the brand’s patented FR-Defense technology. Thanks to an illuminating finish, our eyes looked immediately more awake after application and over time, our veins and dark circles started to fade. We also loved how well this layered under makeup.

Fatima, tester: "Immediate effects of the eye cream were feeling like my under-eyes were hydrated and smooth, soft. There was a brightening effect over a longer period of time—my under-eyes definitely look less veiny and less darker than usual."

Active Ingredients: Caffeine, ginseng root extract, lutein, horse chestnut | Benefits: Lifts, de-puffs, and reduces dark circles and fine lines | Best for: Normal to dry skin | Fragrance-Free: Yes | Size: 0.5 oz | Cruelty-Free: Yes

Do you ever wish you had a filter IRL? Well, Sunday Riley’s Autocorrect Brightening and Depuffing eye cream will help you make that dream a reality. This eye cream will energize tired-looking eyes and reduce the look of puffiness, thanks to its key ingredients including caffeine and Brazilian ginseng root extract. The formula also contains shea and cocoa butter so the skin surrounding your eyes will look plump and refreshed. Our tester, Kate, enjoyed how much this cream softened her under-eyes and how a little went a long way in terms of application.

Kate, tester: "It was definitely hydrating! I felt a real difference in the suppleness and softness of my under-eye area."

Active Ingredients: Polyglutamic acid, hyaluronic acid, niacinamide | Benefits: De-puffs, illuminates, hydrates | Best for: All skin types | Fragrance-Free: Yes | Size: 0.5 oz | Cruelty-Free: Yes

Every Glossier product becomes the talk of the town upon release, and their eye cream is no different. Full Orbit is a multitasking eye cream, able to address dark circles, de-puff bags, and smooth and soften fine lines and wrinkles—all in one formula. It does this with a combo of polyglutamic acid and hyaluronic acid, which are able to plump and hydrate for a youthful complexion. Niacinamide is also a major player, as it's popular for effectively boosting radiance and giving your skin that coveted Glossier glow. When our tester Alicia tried the eye cream out, she loved that it was exceptionally moisturizing while still feeling lightweight, so it was able to sink into the skin within seconds.

Holly Rhue, editorial director: "If you're prone to milia or congestion in the under-eye area, this is a featherlight formula that still offers a smoothing, softening effect."

Active Ingredients: Bakuchiol, caffeine | Benefits: Refines and tones | Best for: All skin types | Fragrance-Free: N/A | Size: 0.5 oz | Cruelty-Free: Yes

Although retinol is effective, it can be irritating to some. It's also to be avoided by those who are pregnant. If you’re looking for an alternative, this formula contains bakuchiol, an ingredient we mentioned earlier that has been shown to have firming and wrinkle-fighting effects nearly identical to that of retinol yet doesn’t elicit irritation. It’s a favorite of Dr. Wesley’s, who likes that it contains caffeine to target puffiness. Squalane and vitamins C and B3 help accelerate cellular turnover and can drive visible results when paired with bakuchiol.

Active Ingredients: Ceramides, hyaluronic acid, caffeine, squalane | Benefits: Hydrates, de-puffs, lifts, brightens | Best for: All skin types | Fragrance-Free: N/A | Size: 0.5 oz | Cruelty-Free: Yes

A hero product from this luxury, clinical-grade line, this illuminating and lifting eye cream is designed for day wear, with a soft focus diamond powder that adds tinted sheen. You can use it on its own, or as a makeup base, beneath concealer. The hydrating formula works on all skin types and contains ceramides, fatty acids, and hyaluronic acid to plump and lift skin, while caffeine, pomegranate and green tea extract targets puffiness and sagging skin.

Active Ingredients: Alpha-glucan oligosaccharide, dipalmitoyl hydroxyproline, palmitoyl tripeptide-38 | Benefits: Firms, smooths, hydrates | Best for: All skin types | Fragrance-Free: Yes | Size: 0.5 oz | Cruelty-Free: Yes

Prebiotics and peptides make this formula rich enough to have visible results on deep wrinkles and those that extend beyond the eyes. Amino acids offer a good dose of hydration to the skin, while an amino acid copper complex brings energy to fatigued eyes. Clinical results within 12 weeks makes this formula pretty fast-acting, too and we noted a velvety skin-feel that helps cushion the eye area. It’s a great option for mature skin.

Active Ingredients: Vitamin C, zerumbone, peptides | Benefits: Boosts radiance, smooths, hydrates, and reduces dark circles | Best for: All skin types | Fragrance-Free: Yes | Size: 0.5 oz | Cruelty-Free: Yes

When it comes to sensitive skin, Paula’s Choice products hit different—and their C5 Super Boost Vitamin C Eye Cream is no exception. This cream is dispensed through a pump so you always know how much product to apply, and on a formulaic level, it helps target dark circles while illuminating and firming the skin surrounding your eye. With vitamin C and peptides working together, you can’t go wrong.

Active Ingredients: Thermal spring water, niacinamide | Benefits: Calm and moisturize | Best for: All skin types | Fragrance-Free: Yes | Size: 0.7 oz | Cruelty-Free: No

If you have very sensitive eyes, especially during the dreaded hay fever season, this gentle eye cream can really help soothe and hydrate delicate skin. Made by La Roche-Posay, its minimal formula is free of common irritants like parabens, fragrance, and alcohol, which are skincare ingredients to avoid if you're prone to reactions or have sensitive skin. The addition of niacinamide and mineral-rich spring water also helps illuminate and hydrate the thin skin around the eyes, leaving it feeling calm and hydrated, especially during the summer months.

Active Ingredients: Palmitic acid, shea butter, niacinamide | Benefits: Illuminates and reduces dark circles | Best for: All skin types | Fragrance-Free: No | Size: 0.5 oz | Cruelty-Free: Yes

An under-eye color-correcting cream delivers an instant illuminating effect quickly and efficiently while neutralizing the look of dark circles. Dr. Wesley recommends this creamy formula, which has skin-barrier-boosting ceramides and hydrating ingredients such as coconut oil and colloidal oatmeal. A 2% super peptide concentrate also helps target fine lines, dryness, and a lack of firmness around the delicate eye area. This potent concentrate comprises rice peptides to help reinforce the skin’s natural barrier function and tetrapeptide to help reduce the appearance of dark circles.

Active Ingredients: Bakuchiol, squalane, vitamin C | Benefits: Smooths lines and hydrates | Best for: All skin types, especially dry | Fragrance-Free: Yes | Size: 0.5 oz | Cruelty-Free: Yes

For those wary of using products with potentially questionable chemicals around their eyes, consider this clean cream, a Byrdie Eco Beauty Award Winner. It uses a litany of different plant-based extracts to impart everything from hydration to antioxidant protection. Particularly noteworthy is the addition of bakuchiol, a natural alternative to retinol that’s been proven to have equally as powerful wrinkle-fighting effects without any of the associated irritation. And because of the texture, it’s a great pick for those with dry, flaky, dead skin or who prefer a thicker formula.

Active Ingredients: Ginseng root extract, retinal liposome 2% | Benefits: Boosts radiance, reduces fine lines | Best for: Normal to dry skin | Fragrance-Free: Yes | Size: 1 oz | Cruelty-Free: Yes

With the firming benefits of ginseng root extract and retinal, this eye cream from K-beauty brand Beauty of Joseon is beloved by customers. The formula is fast-absorbing and has a radiant finish, helping to illuminate the appearance of the under-eye area. Use once at night after cleansing with a face wash and toner, and you’re good to go.

FAQ

• How do you apply eye cream?

  Apply a small amount onto your ring finger and gently tap—don’t rub or tug—underneath and along the side of the eye. You can also apply eye cream along the brow bone underneath your eyebrow, but Dr. Wesley cautions against putting it on the actual upper lid itself unless the product you’re using specifically says it can be used on this area.

• When should you apply eye cream?

  “Most eye creams may be used morning and night,” says Dr. Wesley. “Twice daily application better ensures that the moisturizing or active properties of the eye cream have a chance to work.”

• How long does eye cream take to work?

  While you may notice some benefits within a few weeks, most will take two to three months, or even longer, to work, says Dr. Wesley. But remember that long-term use will yield both benefits toward helping existing issues and preventing further signs of aging, she says.

Byrdie contributor Melanie Rud has over a decade of experience in the beauty industry, writing for some of the biggest magazines and websites out there. A skincare maven, eye creams have always held a soft spot in her heart because the lines around her eyes are her biggest complexion concern.

Austen Tosone is a beauty writer and content creator based in New York City who is totally skincare-obsessed. As someone who has dealt with dark circles and dryness, she has tried dozens of eye creams over the years and many of her tried and true favorites can be found in this very article, including the It Cosmetics Confidence in an Eye Cream and the Paula’s Choice C5 Super Boost Vitamin C Eye Serum.