Discover the Best Eye Creams for all your Under-Eye Needs
Content editor
Ellie Spicer
What are the benefits of an eye cream?
When putting together a skincare routine, you might wonder whether an eye cream is necessary. The benefits of eye cream are specific to the eye area but they also contribute to the overall appearance and condition of your facial skin. The skin around the eye area is thinner and often more sensitive so you'll likely notice the first signs of aging such as fine lines or 'crow's feet' here.
Eye creams are specifically formulated to hydrate and moisturise the under-eye area without being heavy, or overly concentrated with active ingredients which could sensitise the delicate skin. There are various formulas to target specific eye-area concerns such as fine lines, puffiness or dark circles.

How to apply eye cream
Be gentle when applying eye cream. Start by applying a pea-sized amount of your chosen product to the tip of your ring finger, then gently tap it onto the under-eye area. Focus on applying your eye cream to the socket and brow bone, avoiding rubbing or pulling at the under-eye skin. Some eye creams can be used on the lid, but always check the instructions before doing this. In the morning, look for eye creams with ingredients like caffeine and Vitamin C for a visible boost. For the evening, opt for richer formulations with moisturising properties or peptides to help repair the skin while you sleep.

The best eye creams for dark circles
Dark under-eye circles can be caused by a variety of factors, including genetics. The best eye creams for dark circles work to combat the appearance of blue or purple tones under the eye and improve overall radiance. REN’s Radiance Brightening Dark Circle Eye Cream is specifically formulated for this purpose and can be used morning and night. The potent power of Murad's Vita-C Eye Dark Circle Corrector works to combat the under-eye bags using gold (yes, you read that right.) After six weeks, 85% of users saw a reduction in their dark circles and after just two weeks 86% saw brighter skin around the eye.

The best eye creams for wrinkles
One of the first signs of aging is fine lines around the eye, also known as 'crow's feet'. The best eye creams for wrinkles in this delicate area are ultra-moisturising and infused with ingredients like retinol or peptides. Origin’s Plantscription Anti-Aging Power Eye Cream uses anogeissus, a powerful skincare ingredient that helps boost skin's natural production of fibrillin to minimise the look of lines and wrinkles in just two weeks. If you’re looking for an eye cream that does it all, try Prai’s Ageless Eye D-Crease: from the experts in aging skin, you can rely on this eye cream to tackle dark circles, puffiness and wrinkles over time.

The best skincare for under-eye puffiness
Under-eye puffiness is often temporary and can be linked to dehydration: you might have experienced it the morning after a wedding or watching a tear-jerking film. The best eye creams for puffiness soothe and desensitise the eye area, while delivering a boost of much-needed moisture. Emma Hardie’s Midas Touch Revitalising Eye Serum is rich in omegas 3, 6 and 9 to enhance skin elasticity, while hyaluronic acid delivers deep hydration.
If you are in need of an instant fix, reach for Pixi’s DetoxifEye Depuffing Eye Patches. After cleansing, apply gently to the under-eye area and leave for 10 minutes. Expect smooth, refreshed skin in a flash.
Published 4.17.2025
Related Stories
4.24.2024
What is retinol?
If you're concerned about wrinkles, dark spots, oily skin or enlarged pores, retinol could be the skin saviour you've been searching for. Read on to discover more …
Discover more
3.25.2025
The best skincare for your skin type
Wondering what skincare is right for your skin type? Read on to discover the best moisturisers, cleansers and treatments to suit your skin
Read More
3.22.2025
Peptides in skincare
Unlock the secret to great skin with the powerhouse ingredient that stimulates collagen and addresses a wide range of skincare concerns
Read More
10.14.2024
Must-have menopause skincare
From hot flushes to mood swings, there are many symptoms associated with the menopause, with women going through huge mental and physical changes. We spoke to dermatologist Dr Alia Ahmed to find out more about how perimenopause and menopause affect the skin, plus tips on skincare ingredients and daily routine.
Read More