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Struggling with dark circles? You're not the only one. Unfortunately, it's not the kind of thing that can be fixed with your standard face cream. "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 dermatologist Courtney Rubin, MD. "Eye creams need to be formulated a little bit differently than how you would formulate products for the rest of the face."
See some of the best eye creams for dark circles below:
Some eye creams work to brighten your under-eyes, while others work to plump up your skin with hyaluronic acid, which can treat hollow and dark under-eyes. Because puffy eyes usually accompany dark circles, some of these eye creams are even made with caffeine to assist in de-puffing, says dermatologist Marisa Garshick, MD. Below, check out the best eye creams for dark circles that can help treat a wide array of skin types, tested by skincare experts and editors.
What causes dark circles?
"Dark circles are the result of aging, lifestyle choices, and genetics,” says 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 also decreases as people age which can cause dark circles, says Dr. Garshick.
Some people are also genetically predisposed to some hyperpigmentation in the under-eye area, Dr. Garshick adds. Plus, those with allergies can be affected by discoloration, especially from rubbing their eyes frequently.
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 dermatologist Brendan Camp, MD. In other words, Payot's eye cream can help prevent dark spots under-eyes.
Dr. Garshick also recommends this eye cream, and loves that its roll-on applicator is easy to use, and helps address puffiness while also moisturizing the skin. Use up this two times a day for the best results.
Testers say that this product soothes under-eyes without making them feel greasy. Many of them also love how small the product is, so it's easy to travel with. Some users also report that the product helps them eliminate their morning puffiness and improve the moisture of their skin.
Key ingredients | Hydro défense complex(fig + watermelon + red algae extract + H20 patch), creatine, vitamin C, vitamin E |
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Who it's for | Dry skin |
Product features | Paraben-free, toxin-free, GMO-free |
Size | 15 ml |
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.
Testers 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 note that they experience breakouts after using the product.
"This was a hit with my uber-dry perimenopausal winter skin," says one tester. "It's fab and lightweight...This was my first purchase and I’ll definitely repurchase."
Read more: Best Drugstore Eye Creams
Key ingredients | Hyaluronic Acid, vitamin E, chamomile extract, green tea extract, and licorice root extract |
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Who it's for | Sensitive skin |
Product features | Unscented, hypoallergenic |
Size | .5 oz |
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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.” The solution? She suggests this mineral-based sunscreen eye cream featuring a neutral peach tint. The product 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. "I applied this product under one eye and another [product] on the other eye and asked eight people which was better," says one tester. "Seven chose this one."
Esthetician Rachel Lozina is also a big fan of the Colorescience product, noting that it does the work of a sunscreen and concealer. "This easy-to-use glide-on formula gives great coverage with the concealer, and it blends so seamlessly with my makeup," she says. "Sunscreens are often white and cakey, but this applies like a dream."
Key ingredients | Titanium dioxide, zinc oxide |
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Who it's for | All skin types |
Product features | Unscented |
Size | 1.13 oz |
Pros
- Thick yet non-greasy consistency
- Might reduce the appearance 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 firm the skin while also helping to address dryness," she says.
Testers 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. "I'm in my 60s, and concealer has always creased under my eyes," says one tester. "With this product, there are no creases! I'm so thrilled!"
Women's Health beauty director Brian Underwood loves this product for its "supremely rich and nourishing" texture. "It feels great on skin and doesn't seem to migrate—a huge plus," he says. "I absolutely noticed an improvement in my fine lines and some lightening under my eyes after a few weeks of use."
Key ingredients | Rice peptide, tetrapeptide |
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Who it's for | Dry skin |
Product features | Vegan |
Size | .5 oz |
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Pros
- Balm formula is non-greasy
- Small, travel-friendly packaging
Cons
- Can dry under-eye skin out if it's sensitive
The state of your skin's surface can contribute to under-eye 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.
Testers who have milia (small white bumps under the skin) say they see a visible difference and improvement after consistent use. Many people also love the size of this product for the price point. Some users with eczema also notice a significant improvement in their symptoms. "I have puffy spots on the top of my cheek bones," says one user. "Within two days, they were gone."
Key ingredients | Granactive retinoid, vitamin E, black currant seed oil, shiitake mushroom extract |
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Who it's for | Dry skin |
Product features | Unscented |
Size | .47 oz |
Great Eye Cream With Natural Ingredients
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,” says dermatologist Angela Lamb, MD.
Some testers say 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 note that the smell of the product isn't overwhelming either.
"This eye balm has a naturally rich and hydrating formula that can be used on the most sensitive of skin," says Jenette Serrins, skincare expert and celebrity esthetician. "It truly hydrates and brightens the entire eye area." She adds that it also helps smooth skin texture and reduce puffiness. Plus, a little goes a long way.
Key ingredients | Bearberry, vitamin C, caffeine, algae, bakuchiol |
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Who it's for | Normal skin |
Product features | Vegan |
Size | 2.89 oz |
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Pros
- Great retinoid for beginners
- Testers say they put on less concealer after using this
Cons
- Stings if it mistakenly gets into eyes
"Retinol is known to increase collagen production while preventing its breakdown," Dr. Young says, adding that it helps with fine lines, wrinkles, and even discoloration. She particularly likes this cream because it contains caffeine, which also helps reduce puffiness.
Long-term testers say they saw a major difference after consistent use. Those with sensitive skin also share that the product is gentle and doesn't cause irritation. Some even note that it reduces the appearance of their wrinkles. "My goodness, the change in my under-eyes has been remarkable," says one tester. "I noticed a huge difference in about a week. Love it!"
Read more: Best Retinol Eye Creams
Key ingredients | Retinol, caffeine, thermal water |
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Who it's for | All skin types |
Product features | Unscented, anti-aging |
Size | 1 oz |
Pros
- Non-greasy and lightweight formula
- Shrinks swelling and inflammation, a reviewer wrote
Cons
- Jar formula can spill sometimes
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.
Testers with mild to moderate dark circles say they notice the difference over time, which makes applying makeup a smoother process, overall. One user notes that it's a great product with a reasonable price. Some say it leaves their skin looking dewy and feeling softer.
Key ingredients | Peptide complex, hyaluronic acid, and caffeine |
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Who it's for | All skin types |
Product features | Fragrance-free, paraben-free, phthalate-free |
Size | .5 oz |
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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."
Lozina says Mario’s products have been a long-time staple in her medicine cabinet. "This caffeinated eye cream perks up your tired eyes and it’s hydrating." she says. "I love the price point too!"
Testers say this formula is lightweight and works just as well as high-end brands. Some even say results show in as little as one week. Those with sensitive skin also like that they can use this product without worrying about it irritating their under-eyes.
Key ingredients | Caffeine, sodium hyaluronate, squalane |
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Who it's for | Normal to combination skin |
Product features | Paraben-free, vegan, cruelty-free |
Size | .5 oz |
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.
Testers find this product to be a great addition to their morning and evening skincare routine. Some even use it before applying concealer and are happy with the results. Many testers also agree that the formula doesn't leave skin feeling greasy or sticky.
Key ingredients | Caffeine, niacinamide, peptides |
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Who it's for | Dry skin, sensitive skin, oily skin |
Product features | Fragrance-free |
Size | .5 oz |
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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.
"While brightening the under-eye has been a complicated endeavor to say the least, this eye cream comes pretty close to brightening and adding illumination to darkened under-eye skin," says Lozina. "It’s packed with antioxidants, collagen, is super hydrating, and prohibits oxidative damage."
Testers who are prone to dark circles and dull skin say a little bit of the product goes a long way. Some say they use this during their morning and evening routines and find that they never experience irritation.
Key ingredients | Vitamin C, peptides, grape seed oil, green tea extract, sodium hyaluronate, mica, silica, titanium dioxide |
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Who it's for | All skin types |
Product features | Not listed |
Size | .5 oz |
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-correcting effect on them.
"This product has a beautiful satin-like feel under the eye. It's very hydrating and silky, which I like," says Underwood. "Another plus is the immediate effect it has on under-eye darkness, courtesy of the peachy tint." He adds that the tint is subtle, but still noticeable enough to make a difference when you look in the mirror.
Testers also love this product, noting that it's incredibly lightweight. They also agree that it makes the makeup application process a lot smoother. Users say that it creates a natural glow that makes skin look more radiant.
Key ingredients | Imperial eony extract, LHA |
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Who it's for | Sensitive skin |
Product features | Paraben-free, mineral oil-free, fragrance-free |
Size | .5 oz |
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Pros
- 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 testers say it makes them look like they got Botox after just one use. Those who have been using the products for multiple months note that it makes the skin around their eyes look and feel significantly better. Others who use it before bed say they wake up with less puffiness.
Read more: Best Eye Serums
Key ingredients | Algae extract, vitamins C and B12, bioactive peptides hyaluronic acid, retinol |
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Who it's for | All skin types |
Product features | Paraben-free, phthalate-free, silicone-free, fragrance-free |
Size | .5 oz |
Pros
- Fragrance-free and suitable for sensitive skin
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, testers with sensitive skin are fans.
One user says that it makes the eye area appear brighter, and it's easy to apply to the skin. Others note that the scent is subtle and the formula absorbs into the skin smoothly. We also love its rich texture, so that a little bit goes a long way.
Key ingredients | Arctic cloudberry, vitamin C, hyaluronic acid, peptide complex |
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Who it's for | All skin types |
Product features | Fragrance-free, vegan, cruelty-free. |
Size | .34 oz |
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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,” says dermatologist Deanne Mraz Robinson, MD. 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.
Testers love the cooling effect of the formula and appreciate its subtle scent. Those with sensitive skin say that they don't experience any irritation with this product. Users also agree that while it's on the pricey side, it's well worth the investment.
Key ingredients | Vitamin K oxide, hyaluronic acid, haloxyl, eyeliss |
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Who it's for | Sensitive skin |
Product features | Not listed |
Size | .5 oz |
Best Eye Cream to Apply Under Makeup
Olehenricksen Banana Bright+ Vitamin C Brightening Eye Crème
Pros
- Fragrance-free and good for sensitive skin
- Good value for the price
Cons
- Some miss the fragrance of 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.
"There are so many incredible antioxidants in here that fight stress and photoaging," adds Serrins. "I like that even the most sensitive of skin can use this daily." She adds that the new formula instantly absorbs, which means you don't have to wait to apply your sunscreen or makeup.
Testers love the glow they get from this eye cream. Many users say they see a difference after consistent use for a number of weeks. However, some say it still might not be the best purchase if you have sensitive skin. If you're unsure if it's for you, consider swatch testing first.
Key ingredients | Triple vitamin C complex, bioflavonoids citrus, hardy orange extract |
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Who it's for | All skin types |
Product features | Vegan, gluten-free, cruelty-free |
Size | .5 oz |
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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.
Testers say that the formula melts into the skin while providing a cooling sensation. "I massage the balm back and forth under my eyes and it helps eliminate all my puffiness," says one user. Several testers say results are noticeable in as little as one week.
Key ingredients | Vitamin C, peptides |
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Who it's for | Sensitive skin |
Product features | Paraben-free, fragrance-free, hypoallergenic |
Size | .14 oz |
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. He 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.
Some testers say that after a few months of using the Pigmentclar Eyes Correcteur they noticed significant improvement in their dark circles. They also love that a little goes a long way, with one user calling out that they have a quarter of the product left even after four months of using it consistently. Those who have sensitive skin also agree that this formula doesn't cause irritation.
Key ingredients | Caffeine, retinol, thermal spring water |
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Who it's for | Sensitive skin |
Product features | Fragrance-free |
Size | .5 oz |
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Pros
- Good amount of product for the price
- Reduces puffiness
Cons
- May feel sticky to some users
Whether you're looking for a product that's anti-aging, good for dark circles, or helpful for puffiness, this eye gel from Baebody covers all the bases. For over an ounce of product (most eye creams offer around .5 ounces or less), this one is definitely worth the price.
"This lightweight, anti-aging eye gel cream helps reduce the appearance of puffiness, dark circles, under-eye bags, and wrinkles," says Lozina. "It’s infused with a peptide complex to help enhance collagen production, Matrixyl 3000 to reduce fine lines and wrinkles, and Vitamin E to deeply moisturize."
Testers 50 and older say this product does an excellent job at reducing the appearance of fine lines. They also agree that while it takes some time to see results, staying committed to the product will pay off in the long run. "I wouldn't say it's a magic cure to remove my under-eye bags, but it definitely helps to wake up my eyes and give them a tighter feel," says one user.
Key ingredients | Matrixyl 3000, vitamin E, argan oil, jojoba oil, cucumber, aloe vera |
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Who it's for | All skin types |
Product features | Hypoallergenic, gluten-free, paraben-free, sulfate-free, vegan, GMO-free, cruelty-free |
Size | 1.7 oz |
Pros
- Reduces signs of aging
- Targets dry eyebags
Cons
- May burn for some
This groovy-looking eye cream from Grace and Stella is said to target puffiness, under eye wrinkles, and dark circles. It was developed using key ingredients such niacinamide, caffeine, and green tea extract to give your under-eyes the boost they've been craving.
Lozina loves that this product also treats fine lines, all while remaining rich, powerful, and hydrating. "The price cannot be beat," she says. Testers agree, adding that they saw improvements in just two days.
Key ingredients | Niacinamide, caffeine, green tea extract, zinc oxide |
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Who it's for | All skin types |
Product features | Vegan, cruelty-free, paraben-free, unscented |
Size | 0.46 oz |
Sabrina Talbert
Editorial Assistant
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
Assistant Love & Life Editor
Addison Aloian is the assistant love & life editor at Women’s Health and a NASM-certified personal trainer (CPT). She covers all things lifestyle, astrology, relationships, and fitness. In her free time, you can find her lifting weights at the gym, running on the West Side Highway in New York City, and watching (and critiquing!) the latest movies that have garnered Oscars buzz. In addition to Women's Health, her work has also appeared in Allure, StyleCaster, L'Officiel USA, V Magazine, VMAN, and more.
Reviewed byBrian Underwood
Beauty Director
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.