<p>And before you ask, no, using a facial cream does not work as a substitute. “Because the skin under the eyes is so sensitive, you’re asking for problems if you use products with active ingredients that are meant for facial skin,” says <a href=”https://www.compdermcenter.com/dr-courtney-rubin/” target=”_blank”>Courtney Rubin</a>, MD, a board-certified dermatologist at Comprehensive Dermatology Center of Pasadena. “Eye creams need to be formulated a little bit differently than how you would formulate [products] for the rest of the face.” </p><p>While the market is certainly not lacking in options, it can still be tricky to sort through them all. Luckily, <em>WH</em> put together a list of the 19 best eye creams for dark circles, according to dermatologists, to help you decide which one is right for you. Read on to see the top picks. </p><p class=”body-tip”><strong>Meet the experts:</strong> <a href=”https://www.mdcsnyc.com/provider/marisa-k-garshick-md” target=”_blank” rel=”nofollow”>Marisa Garshick, MD</a>, is a dermatologist based in New York. <a href=”https://doctors.hackensackmeridianhealth.org/provider/AlexisLivingstonYoung/1319319″ target=”_blank” rel=”nofollow”>Alexis Young, MD</a>, is a dermatologist based in Paramus, New Jersey. <a href=”https://www.mdcsnyc.com/provider/brendan-camp-md” target=”_blank”>Brendan Camp, MD</a>, is a dermatologist based in New York. <a href=”https://profiles.mountsinai.org/angela-j-lamb” target=”_blank” rel=”nofollow”>Angela Lamb, MD</a>, is a dermatologist based in New York City. <a href=”https://www.oculoplastic.info/about-us/kami-parsa-bio/” target=”_blank” rel=”nofollow”>Kami Parsa, MD</a>, is an oculoplastic and reconstructive surgeon and a clinical professor at <a href=”http://keck.usc.edu/ophthalmology/” target=”_blank” rel=”nofollow”>The University of Southern California’s Department of Ophthalmology</a>. <a href=”https://www.dermatologyboise.com/physicians-and-staff/dr-dustin-portela” target=”_blank” rel=”nofollow”>Dustin Portela, MD</a>, is a dermatologist based in Boise, Idahoe. <a href=”https://www.moderndermct.com/deanne-mraz-robinson” target=”_blank” rel=”nofollow”>Deanne Mraz Robinson, MD</a>, is a dermatologist from Connecticut. Courtney Rubin, MD, is a board-certified dermatologist at <a href=”https://www.compdermcenter.com/dr-courtney-rubin/” target=”_blank”>Comprehensive Dermatology Center of Pasadena</a> and chief medical officer at <a href=”https://fig-1.co/” target=”_blank”>Fig.1 Beauty</a>.</p>” />
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Best Anti-Fatigue Eye Cream For Dark Circles
Payot Hydra 24 + Regard Glacon
Best Anti-Fatigue Eye Cream For Dark Circles
Payot Hydra 24 + Regard Glacon
Pros
- Metal ball applicator provides finger-free application
- Can be used for de-puffing, too
Cons
- Small tube empties quickly
“Fatigue elevates stress hormone cortisol levels which can swell blood vessels, making them more visible and resulting in dark circles,” says Dr. Young. Payot’s eye cream contains vitamin C to brighten the skin and “neutralize free oxygen radicals, which are unstable oxygen molecules that can contribute to the process of photoaging,” says Dr. Camp. In other words, Payot’s eye cream can help prevent dark spots under-eyes.
“This roll-on applicator makes it easy to use and helps to address puffiness while also moisturizing the skin,” says Garshick. She recommends using it once or even twice daily.
Reviewers say that this product soothes under-eyes without making them feel greasy. Many of them also love how small the product is, making it really easy to apply. Some customers also reported that the product helped them eliminate their morning puffiness.
Rave Review: “Super easy to use and shockingly super moisturizing! Absolutely awesome!”
Best Drugstore Eye Cream For Dark Circles
Cetaphil Hydrating Eye Gel-Cream
Best Drugstore Eye Cream For Dark Circles
Cetaphil Hydrating Eye Gel-Cream
Now 42% Off
Pros
- Gel formula feels soothing
- Lightweight
Cons
- Not for very dry skin
A soothing eye cream that’s suitable for sensitive skin is a must-have if your under-eye area dries out from time to time. Cetaphil’s gel formula contains hydrating and soothing ingredients like vitamins B2 and E, hyaluronic acid, and green tea extract.
Reviewers love how affordable and effective Cetaphil’s eye cream is compared to high-end brands. Many of them also say that it smoothes out and brightens their under-eyes. It may not be appropriate for all skin types, though. Some users did point out that they experience breakouts after using the product.
Rave Review: “This was a hit with my uber-dry perimenopausal winter skin. I use it morning and night. It’s fab and lightweight…This was my first purchase and I’ll definitely repurchase. Very happy skin.”
Best Retinol Eye Cream For Dark Circles
Versed Smooth Landing Advanced Retinoid Eye Balm
Best Retinol Eye Cream For Dark Circles
Versed Smooth Landing Advanced Retinoid Eye Balm
Pros
- Balm formula is non-greasy
- Small, travel-friendly packaging
Cons
- Can dry undereye skin out if it’s sensitive
The state of your skin’s surface can contribute to undereye circles. There’s a chance that any inflammation in the area can leave hyperpigmentation, or a stain, resulting in the appearance of dark circles, says Dr. Young.
To treat that, she suggests looking for an eye cream that contains a gentle form of vitamin A called retinol, which will help produce collagen to thicken the skin and reduce fine lines, Dr. Camp adds.
Reviewers who have milia (small white bumps under the skin) say they saw a visible difference and improvement after consistent usage. Many people also love the size of this product for the price point. Some users with eczema also saw significant improvement in their symptoms.
Rave Review: “I am skeptical about cosmetic promises, but at this price I figured I would give it a try. I have puffy spots on the top of my cheek bones. Within two days, they were gone. GONE. I don’t know what else to say except if you have this problem, it works.”
Best Dark Circle Eye Cream For Sensitive Skin
Neutrogena Hydro Boost+ Caffeine Eye Gel Cream
Best Dark Circle Eye Cream For Sensitive Skin
Neutrogena Hydro Boost+ Caffeine Eye Gel Cream
Now 46% Off
Pros
- Non-greasy and lightweight formula
- Shrinks swelling and inflammation, a reviewer wrote
Cons
- Jar formula isn’t the most mess-free
The skin around the eyes is super thin at just about .5 mm, according to oculoplastic surgeon Kami Parsa, MD. “Thinner skin can translate into a greater chance of skin sensitivity,” he adds. If you have particularly sensitive skin, look for fragrance-free products that don’t contain parabens, phthalates, or dyes.
This budget-friendly option from Neutrogena uses hyaluronic acid, caffeine, and peptides to reduce the look of dark circles, which is why it has the approval of dermatologist Dustin Portela, MD.
Rave Review: “I have mild-to-moderate dark circles under my eyes depending on how much sleep I get. This is the first product I’ve used that I can actually see a difference with before I put on the concealer. Buy it—you won’t regret it. A great product and a reasonable price. Win-win.”
Best Dark Circle Eye Cream For Sun Protection
Colorescience Total Eye 3-in-1 Renewal Therapy
Best Dark Circle Eye Cream For Sun Protection
Colorescience Total Eye 3-in-1 Renewal Therapy
Pros
- Rollerball tip makes application easy
- Works great with a beauty blender
Cons
- Not sweat or water-resistant
“Ultraviolet radiation breaks down our skin’s collagen and elastin fibers, resulting in skin thinning, clumping of the fibers, and ultimately the appearance of dark circles,” Dr. Young says. “It can also worsen existing hyperpigmentation under the eyes.” She suggests this mineral-based sunscreen eye cream featuring a neutral peach tint. This product also works double-duty as a concealer with ultra light coverage.
Many users say that this cream is gentle on their skin and doesn’t crease. Those who typically wear minimal makeup love that it doubles as a concealer without drying out their eyes. Reviewers also appreciate the added SPF 35 in the formula.
Rave Review: “I apply this product under one eye and another on the other eye and asked eight people which was better. Seven chose this one. I was surprised, but happy :D.”
Best Dark Circle Eye Cream For Collagen Production
La Roche-Posay Redermic Retinol Eye Cream
Best Dark Circle Eye Cream For Collagen Production
La Roche-Posay Redermic Retinol Eye Cream
Pros
- Good retinoid for beginners
- People say using it means they use less concealer
Cons
- Stings if it mistakenly gets into eyes
“Retinol is known to increase collagen production while preventing its breakdown,” Dr. Young says, so it’ll help with fine lines, wrinkles, and even discoloration. She particularly likes this cream because it contains caffeine, which helps reduce puffiness, too.
Long-term users say they saw a major difference after consistent use. Reviewers with sensitive skin also share that the product is gentle and doesn’t cause irritation. Some even note that it reduced the appearance of their wrinkles.
Rave Review: “My goodness, the change in my under-eyes has been remarkable! Just use it every night. I noticed a huge difference in about a week. This doesn’t leave your skin in that awkward dry stage before the skin peels off. You just slowly notice it gently exfoliating. Love it!”
Best Dark Circle Eye Cream For Puffy Eyes
Mario Badescu Caffeine Eye Cream
Best Dark Circle Eye Cream For Puffy Eyes
Mario Badescu Caffeine Eye Cream
Pros
- Suitable for all skin types
- Contains mica, which can provide instant brightness
Cons
- Can irritate sensitive skin
Both Dr. Young and Dr. Garshick are fans of caffeine in skincare because it can tighten skin, lighten pigmentation, and reduce puffiness—all while stimulating collagen growth, reducing inflammation, and improving the texture of the skin. “I love that this lightweight cream can do all that while absorbing easily,” Dr. Garshick says. “It helps to reduce dark circles by constricting the blood vessels, helping reduce redness, puffiness, and inflammation.”
Rave Review: “This eye cream is lightweight and works well for puffy eyes. I have tried so many eye creams over the years and this works just as well as many of the more expensive anti-puffy eye creams I’ve used. Great value for a great product!”
Best Eye Cream For Redness-Prone Skin
CeraVe Eye Cream
Best Eye Cream For Redness-Prone Skin
CeraVe Eye Cream
Now 25% Off
Pros
- Affordable
- Wears well under makeup
Cons
- Some feel the texture is too thick
Niacinamide, otherwise known as vitamin B3, can calm redness and inflammation while stimulating collagen and fatty acid production in the skin to improve hydration, Dr. Young says. That’s where CeraVe’s niacinamide, ceramide, and caffeine-packed eye cream comes in. It can help reduce puffiness while thwarting dark circles.
Rave Review: “Very nice eye cream. I’ve used it both before bed and in the morning under makeup or concealer. You will be happy with this. It does not leave a greasy feel and works well under makeup.”
Best Dark Circle Eye Cream For Instant Results
Park Perfection 2-in-1 Instant Eye Lift Serum
Best Dark Circle Eye Cream For Instant Results
Park Perfection 2-in-1 Instant Eye Lift Serum
Pros
- Reviewers say it takes five minutes to see results
- Bottle lasts a while
Cons
- Not ideal for dry skin
“Incorporating peptides, hyaluronic acid, and a highly-purified algae extract, this helps to plump the under-eye area while also using the antioxidants within the algae extract to brighten the under-eye skin,” Dr. Garshick says.
Yes, it’s pricey, but reviewers say it literally makes them look like they got Botox after just one use.
Rave Review: “After using this daily for a couple months now, the skin under and around my eyes looks and feels so much better. It’s the last product I use at night, and I can tell I wake up with a lot less puffiness and dark circles. I’m pleased with how long the little bottle has lasted!”
Best Dark Circle Eye Cream For Discoloration
Isdinceutics IT K-Ox Eyes Cream
Best Dark Circle Eye Cream For Discoloration
Isdinceutics IT K-Ox Eyes Cream
Pros
- Soothing ceramic applicator reduces inflammation
- Unique formulation
Cons
- Can dry out skin for some
“This eye cream is one of my favorites, as it’s packed with vitamin K and a hydrolyzed form of hyaluronic acid that’s ideal for absorption into the skin,” dermatologist Deanne Mraz Robinson, MD, says. With long-term use, vitamin K helps promote blood flow, diminishing puffiness and discoloration, she adds. It can also boost the skin’s elasticity, reducing the appearance of fine lines.
Rave Review: “This really worked! The change was like night and day. I love the cooling effect, subtle scent, and the instant effect it has. I recommend it, especially to those for whom nothing else seems to work!”
Cleanest-Formulated Eye Cream For Dark Circles
Alpyn Beauty PlantGenius Line-Filling Eye Balm
Cleanest-Formulated Eye Cream For Dark Circles
Alpyn Beauty PlantGenius Line-Filling Eye Balm
Pros
- Created using sustainable manufacturing practices
- Brightens dark circles effectively
Cons
- Some don’t like the formula’s thick consistency
Since the area under the eye can be sensitive, derms often recommend fragrance-free, gentle products like this one. “This has an excellent mix of effective natural ingredients including licorice root extract for dark circles, caffeine to target puffiness, and bakuchiol to help combat fine lines,” dermatologist Angela Lamb, MD, says.
Some users says that this product works well on their sensitive skin and doesn’t cause irritation. Others add that it helps prevent puffy under-eyes and fine lines. They also noted that the smell of the product isn’t overwhelming either.
Rave Review: “I am really impressed by this eye balm. I have been using this product for a couple of months. It lightens dark circles and minimizes lines and wrinkles around the eyes. It does not irritate the eyes at all, and I can really see an improvement.”
Best Dark Circle Eye Cream For Dry And Sensitive Skin
L’Oreal Paris Age Perfect Rosy Tone Eye Cream
Best Dark Circle Eye Cream For Dry And Sensitive Skin
L’Oreal Paris Age Perfect Rosy Tone Eye Cream
Now 48% Off
Pros
- Paraben and mineral oil-free
- Feels silky
Cons
- Not an ideal texture for oily skin
L’Oreal’s eye cream is formulated with super hydrating flavonoids that are known to possess both antioxidant and skin-soothing properties to reduce the look of dark circles. Plus, the peachy tint has an instant blurring and color-correct effect on them, too.
Rave Review: “Great product. I love the silky feel of this under my eyes. This is the second time I have purchased this and will buy it again once I use this jar up.”
Most Minimalist Eye Cream For Dark Circles
Lumene Nordic C Glow Boost Eye Serum
Most Minimalist Eye Cream For Dark Circles
Lumene Nordic C Glow Boost Eye Serum
Pros
- Fragrance-free and suitable for sensitive skin
- Good price for the value
Cons
- Only targets brightening
This eye cream has all the ingredients dermatologists recommend to reduce the look of dark circles: three types of hyaluronic acid, a peptide complex, and vitamin C. And since it’s fragrance-free, reviewers with sensitive skin are fans.
Rave Review: “It certainly perks up my eye area and makes it appear brighter. It goes on easily and cleanly. There is no obnoxious scent, it absorbs well, and just gives my eyes a boost.”
Best Dark Circle Eye Cream For Dry Skin
It Cosmetics Confidence In An Eye Cream
Best Dark Circle Eye Cream For Dry Skin
It Cosmetics Confidence In An Eye Cream
Pros
- Thick yet non-greasy consistency
- Reduces the appearances of eye creases
Cons
- Glass jar isn’t very travel-friendly
This cream can be used once or twice a day, says Dr. Garshick. “By combining peptides, including rice peptides and tetrapeptides, this eye cream helps to firm the skin while also helping to address dryness,” she says.
Reviewers enjoy the texture of this cream and like that it has no odor. They also note that it goes on smooth without leaving a sticky or greasy feeling afterward. Most users say they have felt and seen improvement over time.
Rave Review: “OMG. I can’t believe how amazing this eye cream is. I’m in my 60’s and concealer has always creased under my eyes…so frustrating! With this product, there are no creases! I’m so thrilled!”
Best Dark Circle Eye Cream To Apply Before Makeup
Ole Henriksen Banana Bright Eye Crème
Best Dark Circle Eye Cream To Apply Before Makeup
Ole Henriksen Banana Bright Eye Crème
Pros
- Fragrance-free, and good for sensitive skin
- Good value for the price
Cons
- Some miss the fragrance from the old formula
Some eye creams need time to absorb into the skin before you can apply makeup—not this one by Ole Henriksen. Even though it’s hydrating, the vitamin C-packed formula was designed to be crease-resistant, too. “Ole Henriksen’s eye cream has an orange tint that balances the purple appearance of dark circles,” Dr. Camp says. “It also contains vitamin C, which helps address the oxidative stresses that contribute to photoaging.”
Note: While there was a class action lawsuit in 2020 against this particular cream, Dr. Garshick says it’s been reformulated from the prior version that was said to cause irritation in the skin around the eyes, so it can now be used by those with sensitive skin.
Rave Review: “I love the immediate highlight and shine this product provides. The texture is also nice. It definitely helped brighten my under-eyes long-term!”
Best Eye Balm For Dark Circles
RoC Multi Correxion Vitamin C Eye Balm Stick
Best Eye Balm For Dark Circles
RoC Multi Correxion Vitamin C Eye Balm Stick
Pros
- Hypoallergenic
- Good for sensitive skin
Cons
- Several users said the twist-up feature was faulty
No, this isn’t lipstick—but it’s just as travel and purse-friendly. Dr. Garshick recommends RoC’s eye balm stick for refreshing the eye area. “With vitamin C and peptides, this balm helps brighten and reduce puffiness, improving the overall appearance of dark circles,” she says. Just apply it once or twice daily.
Rave Review: “…it glides smoothly. Immediately upon application, I feel a cooling sensation. I massage the balm back and forth under my eyes and it helps eliminate all my puffiness. It also deposits a sheer yellow color that melts into my skin and brightens my eye area, minimizing the dark circles.”
Best Eye Cream For Brightening Dark Circles
Revision Skincare Teamine Eye Complex
Best Eye Cream For Brightening Dark Circles
Revision Skincare Teamine Eye Complex
Pros
- A little goes a long way
- Brightens dull skin
Cons
- Takes a while before you see results
This cream has antioxidants that can potentially reduce the formation of dark spots, but Dr. Camp loves that it also has blurring agents like mica and silica to brighten skin. Revision Skincare’s cream is also formulated with collagen boosters like antioxidants and vitamin C.
Rave Review: “I very easily get dark circles and dull skin under my eyes, and I’ve tried a number of different brands over the years. This is the best one I’ve ever used. I did not experience any irritation whatsoever. I dab a small amount in the morning and evening and it works great.”
Best Color-Balancing Eye Cream For Dark Circles
La Roche-Posay Pigmentclar Eyes Correcteur
Best Color-Balancing Eye Cream For Dark Circles
La Roche-Posay Pigmentclar Eyes Correcteur
Pros
- Fragrance-free
- Oil-free
Cons
- May leave a white film behind
“The niacinamide in this product helps calm skin and treat skin discoloration,” Dr. Camp says. She approves of this product because the caffeine in it reduces any background blue or purple tones, and the cooling metal applicator helps reduce swelling and puffiness.
Rave Review: “…After using this product for a couple months, [my dark circles] have lightened significantly. I use it every day and night after serum and before moisturizer. It’s been four months and I still have maybe a quarter of it left. I highly recommend it for anyone with dark under-eye circles.”
How our team chose the best eye creams for dark circles
For the past few months, Women’s Health editors, including editorial assistants Sabrina Talbert and Addison Aloian, have been researching the bestselling, most popular, and top-rated eye creams for dark circles. Our team consulted six dermatologists and an oculoplastic and reconstructive surgeon for opinions, and then evaluated thousands of customer reviews and ratings to narrow down the best eye creams for dark circles for a wide range of needs and preferences.
What causes dark circles?
“Dark circles are the result of aging, lifestyle choices, and genetics,” shares dermatologist Alexis Young, MD. “As we age, the bone and fat under our eyes shrink and become less voluminous. The skin becomes less hydrated, making it so you can see muscles and blood vessels below the surface.” Collagen production decreases as people age which can cause dark circles, too, Dr. Garshick says.
Some people are also genetically predisposed to some hyperpigmentation in the under-eye area, Dr. Garshick adds. Those with allergies are also affected by discoloration, especially from rubbing their eyes frequently.
Sabrina is an editorial assistant for Women’s Health. When she’s not writing, you can find her running, training in mixed martial arts, or reading.
Addison Aloian (she/her) is an editorial assistant at Women’s Health. When she’s not writing about all things pop culture, health, beauty, and fashion, she loves hitting leg day at the gym, shopping at Trader Joe’s, and watching whichever hockey game is on TV. Her work has also appeared in Allure, StyleCaster, L’Officiel USA, V Magazine, and Modern Luxury Media.
Brian Underwood is the beauty director at Women’s Health. He is an award-winning journalist with more than 15 years of experience covering beauty and lifestyle for several national media outlets and previously served as beauty and wellness director at Oprah Daily. His work has appeared in Woman’s Day, Life & Style Weekly, Good Housekeeping, and many more. He also serves as a member of the Skin Cancer Foundation’s gala committee and lives in New York City with his daughter.
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