11 best eye creams for dark circles and wrinkles, reviewed
Whether it’s puffiness, dark circles, fine lines or stubborn under-eye bags, finding the best eye cream for your concerns is high on many skincare wish lists. This delicate area is often the first to betray dehydration, late nights and stress, so it’s little surprise that Google searches for “what is the best eye cream for dark circles?” have risen by more than 5,000% in recent months. If that sounds familiar, a targeted treatment can help refresh, hydrate and brighten tired-looking eyes.
“The skin around the eyes is thinner, more delicate and has fewer oil glands than the rest of the face, so it benefits from products specifically formulated for that area,” explains oculoplastic surgeon Dr Maryam Zamani. “A well-formulated eye cream can improve hydration, support the skin barrier, soften fine lines caused by dryness and help address pigmentation or puffiness.”
She advises seeking out formulas that support overall skin health and resilience. At a minimum, hydrating ingredients such as hyaluronic acid, vitamin C and glycerin, alongside antioxidants like vitamins C and E and niacinamide, are excellent starting points. For those hoping to boost collagen production and improve fine lines over time, Dr Zamani recommends low-strength, well-tolerated retinoids or peptides, which are also effective for skin repair.
One of the most common questions surrounding eye creams is whether they actually work. The answer is yes – provided you choose the right formula for your skin type and keep expectations realistic. “It’s important to understand what they can and can’t do,” says Dr Zamani. “When structural changes are present, topical products won’t deliver the same results as medical or surgical treatments.”
From rich creams to lightweight gels and potent eye serums, there’s a formula to suit every skin type and concern. Some are designed to de-puff and revive tired eyes, while others work to boost collagen, soften the appearance of crow’s feet and visibly smooth the delicate under-eye area.
Below, we’ve rounded up the best eye creams that actually work – whether you’re shopping for something brightening, hydrating or youth-boosting.
- What type of eye cream is best?
- What is the difference between an eye cream and an eye serum?
- Do eye creams help reduce the appearance of fine lines and uneven texture?
- What to look for when shopping for an eye cream, according to experts
- Do you put moisturiser on before or after eye cream?
- Are eye creams worth it?
- What eye cream ingredients are best for dark circles?
- What is best for ageing eyes?
- Which is better: an eye gel or an eye cream?
- Is it better to use eye cream in the morning or evening?
- How to apply eye cream
- More of the best eye creams
Meet the experts:
| Dr Michael Detmar | dermatologist and co-founder of IRÄYE Skincare. |
| Dr Dendy Engelman | skincare specialist and consulting dermatologist at Elizabeth Arden. |
| Kate Kerr | Clinical facialist. |
| Dr Anna Hemming | Aesthetic doctor. |
| Dr Maryam Zamani | Oculoplastic surgeon, aesthetic doctor and founder of MZ Skin. |
| Andrea Pfeffer | Facialist and founder of Salon C. Stellar. |
How I tested the best eye creams
I used to be an eye cream sceptic, firmly believing that I could get the same benefits from my serums and moisturiser. But after trying a number of the formulas featured here, I’ve realised that with the right one, you really do see results. I tested each for at least a week, while the remaining picks were trialled by the Glamour team over a period of at least four weeks. All have been vetted first-hand for efficacy — and they truly work a treat.
They’re not going to completely overhaul your eye area, as some brands might have you believe. What they will do is strengthen the skin barrier, plump and hydrate the area, and stimulate collagen production over time — helping your eyes look and feel noticeably more rested.
Why you can trust me
I’ve spent well over a decade as a beauty editor, trialling new (and old) products, writing about the latest technology and ensuring I’m up to date on recent science. I also regularly speak to dermatologists, scientists and other experts, who know a lot more than me. I bring all of this knowledge to each story I write, so whenever you see something on a page, you can trust that I believe it’s worth your time.
Ahead, the very best eye creams, as reviewed by our beauty editors…
Medik8 Crystal Retinal Ceramide Eye 3
- Best for: Lessening the look of fine lines and puffiness.
- Type: Cream.
- Product size: 15ml.
- Key ingredients: Retinaldehyde, chamomile extract, hyaluronic acid and ceramides.
- Vegan: Yes
- Use: PM
- Recyclable packaging: Yes.
- Tester: Fiona Embleton, GLAMOUR's Associate Beauty Director.
Why we love it: There's nothing quite like Medik8. The Crystal Retinal Ceramide Eye 3 is a personal favourite of mine – it's formulated with a healthy helping of clinical-strength retinaldehyde (a type of retinoid), along with a blend of ceramides and hyaluronic acid. All-in-all, it's a great solution for reducing the appearance of wrinkles, crow's feet and fine lines while depuffing and hydrating the delicate eye area.
The formula comes in three strengths (3, 6 and 10), with three being ideal for retinoid newbies. Retinaldehyde works up to 11 times faster than retinol, accelerating skin renewal and stimulating collagen production to visibly reduce crow’s feet, fine lines and crepey texture. Meanwhile, ceramides strengthen the skin barrier (a must when using active ingredients), hyaluronic acid delivers deep hydration, and chamomile helps soothe any redness or irritation. It’s a powerhouse blend that targets every major under-eye concern - from puffiness and dullness to loss of firmness - while being gentle enough to use daily. It also blends in like a dream despite the thick consistency and white cast when it first goes on.
Pros & ConsPros- Reduces the appearance of wrinkles, crow's feet and fine lines
- Comes in three strengths (3, 6 and 10)
- Blends easily
Cons- Expensive
Estée Lauder Advanced Night Repair Supercharged Gel Eye Cream
- Best for: Revealing a radiant, well-rested eye area.
- Type: Gel-cream.
- Product size: 15ml.
- Key ingredients: Hyaluronic acid, vitamin E, peptides and caffeine.
- Vegan: No.
- Use: PM
- Recyclable packaging: Yes.
- Tester: Elle Turner, Glamour's Senior Beauty Editor.
Why we love it: When it comes to delicate yet potent overnight skincare, no brand does it better than Estée Lauder. This gentle under-eye water-gel cream contains a blend of hyaluronic acid, vitamin E, peptides and caffeine that helps reinvigorate your skin while you sleep, so you can awaken looking as fresh as a daisy. Instant radiance, unlocked.
What makes this formula stand out is how cleverly the ingredients work together. Hyaluronic acid acts like a tall glass of water for your under-eyes, while vitamin E helps strengthen the skin barrier and shield against daily stress. Peptides support your skins’ repair process and collagen production (aka firmer, smoother texture over time), and caffeine helps kickstart circulation to reduce puffiness and brighten.
Save when you shop for the best eye creams with these Sephora discount codes at checkout.
Pros & ConsPros- Deeply hydrating
- Brightens and de-puffs
- Firms over time
Cons- Expensive
- Not vegan
Murad Retinol Youth Renewal Eye Serum
- Best for: Smoothing fine lines and brightening.
- Type: Serum.
- Product size: 15ml.
- Key ingredients: Retinol Tri-Active Technology, hyaluronic acid, swertia flower extract, and marine kelp complex.
- Vegan: Yes.
- Use: PM
- Recyclable packaging: Yes.
Why we love it: Retinol around the eyes can seem a little risky - especially if you’re prone to irritation and dryness - but Murad has nailed it with this serum. The Retinol Tri-Active Technology is basically a clever cocktail of fast-acting and slow-release retinol, plus a booster, so you get all the smoothing, brightening benefits without the side effects. Add hyaluronic acid for plumpness, swertia flower extract to strengthen, and marine kelp to give a subtle lift, and you’ve got yourself a seriously hardworking eye serum.
The texture is silky and sinks in quickly - no heavy residue or pilling under makeup - just a lightweight layer that works well with other products in your routine. After a few weeks, expect crow’s feet to look softer, dark circles less obvious, and your whole eye area a little fresher. Yes, it’s spenny, but if you want a retinol eye serum that actually does what it promises (without leaving you red and sore), this is the one I’d add to that shelfie.
Save when you shop for the best eye creams with these LookFantastic discount codes at checkout.
Pros & ConsPros- Potent retinol formula that’s gentle on delicate skin
- Hydrates, smooths and brightens at once
- Lightweight texture absorbs quickly
Cons- Pricey
Beauty of Joseon Revive Eye Serum: Ginseng + Retinal
- Best for: Improving wrinkles and hydrating.
- Type: Serum.
- Product size: 30ml.
- Key ingredients: Ginseng root extract, retinal, glycerin, niacinamide, ceramides, cholesterol.
- Vegan: Yes.
- Use: PM.
- Recyclable packaging: No.
Why we love it: K-beauty favourite Beauty of Joseon knows exactly how to create formulas that perform just as beautifully as they feel — see their viral SPF for proof. This eye cream is no exception.
Powered by 10% ginseng and retinal, it helps refresh and revitalise the under-eye area while protecting against external stressors like pollution and UV exposure. Meanwhile, liposomally-delivered retinal works over time to soften fine lines and wrinkles, minimising irritation for a gentler retinol experience.
Deeply hydrating and barrier-strengthening, this multitasking formula delivers visible results without the hefty price tag. Effective, skin-loving and budget-friendly? You really can’t go wrong.
Pros & ConsPros- Cult product that's worth the hype.
Cons- Non-recyclable packaging.
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The INKEY List Caffeine Eye Cream
- Best for: Energising and depuffing.
- Type: Cream.
- Product size: 15ml.
- Key ingredients: Caffeine and the plumping peptide Matrixyl 3000.
- Vegan: Yes.
- Use: AM
- Recyclable packaging: Yes.
- Tester: Sophie Cockett, Glamour's Senior European Commerce Editor & Shani Cohen, Glamour's Beauty Commerce Writer.
Why we love it: We can all readily agree that £10 for an eye cream is an absolute steal. Powered by caffeine as an active ingredient, this affordable product helps reduce the appearance of fine lines and dark circles, giving you a much more even skin tone. Plus, it's small and portable, meaning it's easy to pop in your bag to help protect your delicate skin from environmental aggressors such as big-city London pollution.
Caffeine gets to work quickly to shrink puffiness, while Matrixyl 3000, a peptide blend, helps support collagen production over time. It's light, layers well, and ideal for first-timers or anyone on a budget. If you need something richer, this many not be enough on its own – but it's a great price for what it does deliver.
Pros & ConsPros- Super affordable
- Depuffs and brightens quickly
- Lightweight, layers well under makeup
Cons- Not rich enough for very dry skin
- Small 15ml size runs out fast
Ole Henriksen Banana Bright Eye Crème
- Best for: Luminosity and reducing signs of fatigue.
- Type: Cream.
- Product size: 15ml.
- Key ingredients: Gold-complexed vitamin C, shea and jojoba seed oils and banana powder-inspired pigments.
- Vegan: Yes.
- Use: AM + PM
- Recyclable packaging: Yes.
- Tester: Denise Primbet, Glamour's former Beauty Commerce Writer.
Why we love it: This brightening eye cream from Ole Henriksen features light-reflecting, illuminating pigments inspired by banana powder (a makeup artist essential), that colour-correct and revive tired-looking eyes. It's crease-resistant and concealer-friendly too, on top of being fuelled by skincare-loving ingredients such as vitamin C, colloidal gold and orange extract.
Vitamin C helps boost glow and support collagen production, while jojoba and shea oils nourish and soften the under-eye area. Those yellow pigments give instant luminosity, which makes this one a great morning pick-me-up. It's not the most heavy-duty for deep wrinkles, but if you want brightness and hydration, that's where this one really shines.
Save when you shop for the best eye creams with these Boots discount codes at checkout.
Pros & ConsPros- Instantly brightens with banana powder-inspired pigments
- Concealer-friendly, crease-resistant formula
- Nourishes with vitamin C and oils
Cons- Not intensive enough for deep wrinkles
- Brightening effect is subtle, not dramatic
- May not suit those preferring a richer texture
- Best for: Moisturising and reducing dark circles.
- Type: Cream.
- Product size: 15ml.
- Key ingredients: Ceramides and hyaluronic acid.
- Vegan: Yes.
- Use: AM+ PM
- Recyclable packaging: Yes.
Why we love it: This affordable option from CeraVe is a bestseller for a reason. Not only is it widely available in most beauty stores and pharmacies, but it also features a dermatologist-approved formula that targets dark circles, eye bags and puffiness. Toss it in your handbag, apply whenever needed and dab it into your under-eye area using your ring finger once or twice a day. Simple.
Great for beginners or anyone prone to irritation. I wouldn't say this is a miracle worker, but if you're after a dermatologist-approved cream that's packed with great ingredients like hyaluronic acid, without a hefty price tag attached, this one is for you.
Pros & ConsPros- Affordable
- Dermatologist-approved formula
- Great for beginners or anyone prone to irritation
Cons- Not the fastest acting
L'Occitane Immortelle Precious Eye Balm
- Best for: Smoothing and firming tired eyes.
- Type: Balm.
- Product size: 15ml.
- Key ingredients: Immortelle essential oil, hyaluronic acid, caffeine.
- Vegan: No.
- Use: PM
- Recyclable packaging: Yes.
Why we love it: This is the kind of product that makes it look like you’ve had a full night’s sleep, even if you’ve had four. The star ingredient, immortelle essential oil, is packed with antioxidants and known for helping boost skin’s natural firmness, while hyaluronic acid swoops in to hydrate and plump. Caffeine wakes your eyes up, helping to reduce puffiness and signs of tiredness.
The balm texture is designed to melt in easily and wear well under makeup, making it a great choice for everyday use.With consistent application, the aim is that fine lines become softer, and the whole eye area looks fresher and more rested - sounds good to us. It’s not vegan (there’s beeswax in the mix), but the packaging is recyclable, and the formula ticks a lot of boxes if you’re looking for something gentle, firming and a little bit fancy.
Pros & ConsPros- Antioxidant-rich formula
- Lightweight balm texture that layers well under makeup
- Softens fine lines with continued use
Cons- Contains beeswax (not vegan)
- Results take time and consistency
- Slightly fragranced - may not suit sensitive skin types
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Kiehl's Creamy Eye Treatment with Avocado
- Best for: Moisturising and smoothing.
- Type: Cream.
- Product size: 14g and 28g.
- Key ingredients: Avocado oil, beta-carotene and shea butter.
- Vegan: No.
- Use: AM + PM
- Recyclable packaging: Yes.
Why we love it: This rich, creamy eye lotion is powered by nourishing avocado oil to hydrate, brighten, and smooth the delicate under-eye area. Suitable for all skin types, it’s a versatile essential for anyone looking to boost moisture and comfort.
Ingredient-wise, avocado oil is packed with fatty acids that help soften and strengthen the skin barrier, while beta-carotene delivers antioxidant protection. With its thick, indulgent texture, it’s best suited for nighttime routines or make-up-free days. If deep hydration is your priority, this one’s a must-have.
Pros & ConsPros- Intensely hydrating and nourishing
- Suitable for all skin types, including sensitive
- Antioxidant-rich with a thick, comforting texture
Cons- Not vegan
- Heavy texture may not suit daytime/makeup wear
- More hydrating than brightening or anti-ageing
Tatcha The Brightening Eye Cream
- Best for: Brightening, lifting, firming.
- Type: Cream.
- Product size: 15ml.
- Key ingredients: Vitamin C, Japanese plum, niacinamide.
- Vegan: Yes.
- Use: AM + PM
- Recyclable packaging: Yes.
Why we love it: Want brighter under-eyes? You’ve found your match. This Tatcha eye treatment is created with 12-hour time-release vitamin C to visibly brighten dark circles, even out skin tone, and restore a fresh, well-rested look.
Infused with Japanese plum and soothing bioferments, it helps calm the skin and reduce puffiness, while niacinamide targets hyperpigmentation for a more uniform finish. The result? Radiant luminosity, improved firmness and smoothness, and a stronger, more resilient skin barrier.
Pros & ConsPros- Long-lasting 12-hour vitamin C delivery
- Brightens and evens one while firming
- Vegan formula
Cons- Pricey
- Richer texture may not suit very oily skin
Sunday Riley Auto Correct Brightening and Depuffing Eye Contour Cream
- Best for: Reducing the appearance of puffiness and fine lines.
- Type: Cream.
- Product size: 15ml.
- Key ingredients: Caffeine, cocoa butter, shea butter, and ginseng root.
- Vegan: No.
- Use: AM + PM
- Recyclable packaging: Yes.
Why we love it: We’ve all had one too many late nights binging the latest Netflix hit, but Sunday Riley’s cult-favourite under-eye cream is here to save the day — or at least the morning after — when you wake up looking puffy.
Formulated with nourishing smoothing butters, energising caffeine and ginseng root to depuff and revive, plus hydrating watermelon extract, this powerhouse cream works to soothe, smooth and brighten tired eyes. The result? A refreshed, radiant under-eye area that looks like you actually got eight hours of sleep.
Pros & ConsPros- Instantly brightens and reduces puffiness
- Nourishing formula with cocoa and shea butters
- Hydrating yet lightweight texture
Cons- Not vegan
- Pricey for a 15ml size
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FAQ:
What type of eye cream is best?
According to aesthetic doctor Dr Anna Hemming, "The best eye cream depends on your individual skin concerns, such as dark circles, puffiness, fine lines, or overall skin laxity and thinning skin. A well-formulated product should be gentle yet effective, with active ingredients tailored to the delicate skin around the eyes.
"I recommend looking for medical-grade products with evidence-based ingredients that target specific issues. My favourites are from the ZO Skin Health range: each product in their collection has a distinct function, from brightening to rejuvenation and firming.
“For example, ZO Skin Health’s Intense Eye Crème is ideal for mature or delicate skin, delivering hydration and reinforcing skin structure. For younger or preventative care, the ZO Eye Brightening Serum works well to revive tired eyes and diminish dark circles, while the Growth Factor Eye Serum is excellent for smoothing fine lines and improving skin strength.”
What is the difference between an eye cream and an eye serum?
"While both are designed for the delicate skin around the eyes, eye creams and eye serums differ in both their purpose and texture. Eye creams are thicker and contain emollients, helping to hydrate and lock in moisture, making them particularly beneficial during the day when the skin needs protection.
"Eye serums, on the other hand, are lighter and more concentrated in active ingredients, designed to penetrate deeper into the skin to target specific issues such as vascular damage, dark circles, puffiness, and collagen breakdown.
“These two types of products are complementary and can be used in combination – either applying serum at night and cream in the morning, or layering serum first followed by cream both morning and evening, depending on your skin’s needs,” says clinical facialist, Kate Kerr.
Do eye creams help reduce the appearance of fine lines and uneven texture?
"Yes, clinically formulated eye creams with active ingredients can significantly improve fine
lines, uneven texture, and thinning skin. Targeting fine lines and uneven texture especially
when they’re formulated with proven actives like peptides, growth factors, and retinol
alternatives. Eye creams work to smooth the skin, improve collagen stimulation, and
reinforce skin integrity," says Dr Hemming.
What to look for when shopping for an eye cream, according to experts
Most skincare experts and dermatologists advise that the common ingredients to look out for are hyaluronic acid (great for hydrating and nourishing), vitamin C, which is a champion for brightening and diminishing pigmentation and dark circles, ceramides to plump skin, calming vitamin E, soothing aloe vera, moisturising squalane and protecting glycerin. They all work to give your under-eyes the proper TLC they deserve.
The best caffeine eye creams are also great for reducing puffiness, while the best retinol eye creams are good for anti-ageing.
Speaking of retinol, Kerr explains that “a retinol eye cream helps to stabilise melanocytes — the cells that create pigment in skin — in order to prevent hyperpigmentation. It also thickens the dermis, which can make veins appear less prominent, improves texture, and smooths fine lines and wrinkles."
Do you put moisturiser on before or after eye cream?
For best results, apply your eye cream or serum first, then seal it in by applying a moisturiser over the top.
Are eye creams worth it?
They definitely are according to Dr Dendy, who advises to always look at eye creams before moving to advanced treatments like injectables. And the expert reveals that the under eye area is also one of the first to show signs of ageing (just like your hands, sigh).
“You’re never too young for eye cream, because we know it’s going to be the first area to show crepiness, fine lines and wrinkles," she says. In short, an eye cream is not going to do you a disservice.
What eye cream ingredients are best for dark circles?
Kerr explains: "The right ingredients depend on the underlying cause of your dark circles. If pigmentation is the issue, it’s essential to regulate melanin production using tyrosinase inhibitors – vitamin C, kojic acid, niacinamide and retinol are particularly effective for this.
“If the darkness stems from leaky blood vessels and poor circulation, which creates a blue or purple hue, ingredients such as caffeine, vitamin C, and vitamin K help strengthen capillaries and boost microcirculation."
What is best for ageing eyes?
If there’s one hero ingredient to look for as skin ages, it’s a retinoid, says Pfeffer. “That includes gentler forms, like retinal or retinol, that are designed for the delicate eye area – they help boost collagen synthesis and smooth fine lines and are more effective than any other single topical active.”
Daily SPF is equally essential, as UV exposure is one of the biggest contributors to premature ageing around the eyes. “Consistent use of eye creams that hydrate, support collagen and protect the skin barrier can help maintain skin quality,” explains Dr Zamani. “However, in cases of significant skin laxity, fat herniation or hollowing, skincare alone won’t fully address these concerns. In those instances, treatments such as injectables, energy-based therapies or surgery may be required.”
While expensive, MZ Skin’s Bio-Placenta Eye Cream is second to none. It is clinically shown to lift the upper eyelid area by up to 40 per cent, making it one of the few products on the market to deliver visible tightening in this zone.
Which is better: an eye gel or an eye cream?
With so many eye creams out there, it can be tricky choosing which texture works well for your skin type. That's why we asked a skin expert to make those decisions that little bit easier. Kate Kerr says: "It ultimately depends on what you’re trying to achieve. Gels tend to have a cooling, refreshing effect and are quickly absorbed, making them ideal for targeting puffiness and tired eyes. Creams, with their richer texture are better suited for hydrating and nourishing the skin, particularly if dryness is a concern.
“Personally, I prefer serums or light creams over both, because they often combine multiple active ingredients in a highly absorbable format targeting several concerns simultaneously and reaching deeper layers of the skin.”
Is it better to use eye cream in the morning or evening?
It depends on your goals. For protection, prevention and general hydration, morning application may be best. Look for an eye cream that is ultra-lightweight, with ingredients like caffeine, hyaluronic acid and antioxidants, which can help hydrate, depuff and defend the area from daily stressors such as pollution, UV rays and screen time.
If you want some more targeted action on concerns like fine lines and pigmentation, with active ingredients, such as retinoids, to work on specific concerns, then nighttime might be best. As we sleep, our skin cells regenerate and repair the skin so adding in formulas that help them can supercharge the effect.
How to apply eye cream
“Application technique is incredibly important,” says Dr Zamani. “Eye cream should be applied gently using the ring finger as it naturally applies the least pressure. I recommend tapping or lightly pressing the product around the orbital bone rather than rubbing or dragging the skin.” Tapping also “stimulates microcirculation and supports fluid movement,” says Pfeffer.
