These Eye Creams for Dark Circles Are Like 8-Hours of Sleep In a Jar (2024)

These Eye Creams for Dark Circles Are Like 8-Hours of Sleep In a Jar (1)

Our editors handpick the products that we feature. We may earn commission from the links on this page.

Dark under-eye circles can impact anyone, no matter their age, skin tone, or sleeping habits. If you have them, you're not alone. Many people experience this common concern. "Dark under-eye circles often develop from a combination of genetics and environmental factors," says Azadeh Shirazi, MD, a board-certified dermatologist. Aging is one of the biggest culprits. As we age, we lose collagen, which creates a hollowness that leads to an increased shadow effect, she explains. "Additionally, the eyelid skin becomes thin and delicate, so the underlying blood vessels become more visible, contributing to the appearance of dark circles," says Marisa Garshick, MD, a board-certified dermatologist at MDCS Dermatology. Hyperpigmentation caused by sun damage or genetics also creates dark circles, adds Garshick. "And those with allergies or those who frequently rub their eyes may notice discoloration due to this chronic rubbing."

Our Top Picks

What do dermatologists recommend for dark circles under the eyes?

The solution that's right for you depends on which of the above causes you have, but an eye cream formulated with the right ingredients can certainly help, says Shari Sperling, DO, board-certified dermatologist of Sperling Dermatology. Search for brightening ingredients, like vitamin C, niacinamide, and caffeine.

Ahead, shop the best eye creams for dark circles, according to dermatologists.

The experts:

1

Best Overall Eye Cream

La Roche-Posay Pigmentclar Eye Cream

These Eye Creams for Dark Circles Are Like 8-Hours of Sleep In a Jar (8)

Why We Love It
  • These Eye Creams for Dark Circles Are Like 8-Hours of Sleep In a Jar (9)Gentle formula for sensitive skin
  • These Eye Creams for Dark Circles Are Like 8-Hours of Sleep In a Jar (10)Budget friendly
What to Consider
  • These Eye Creams for Dark Circles Are Like 8-Hours of Sleep In a Jar (11)Some buyers don't like that it's slightly tinted

"This reduces the appearance of both bluish and brown discoloration," says Garshick. "It's also gentle and can be used daily by those with sensitive skin." The formula contains retinol, caffeine, and the La Roche-Posay thermal spring water, which is rich in antioxidants and ultra-soothing. Bonus points are for the affordable price point and the ability to find it at your local drugstore. We also love the metal cooling applicator that feels great against skin.

Key ingredients:Retinol, caffeine, and La Roche-Posay thermal spring water
Size:0.5 fl oz

2

Best Luxury Eye Cream

Isdin K-Ox Eyes

These Eye Creams for Dark Circles Are Like 8-Hours of Sleep In a Jar (12)

Why We Love It
  • These Eye Creams for Dark Circles Are Like 8-Hours of Sleep In a Jar (13)Brightens and firms
  • These Eye Creams for Dark Circles Are Like 8-Hours of Sleep In a Jar (14)Has a cooling ceramic applicator
  • These Eye Creams for Dark Circles Are Like 8-Hours of Sleep In a Jar (15)Hydrates and plumps
What to Consider
  • These Eye Creams for Dark Circles Are Like 8-Hours of Sleep In a Jar (16)It's a splurge

Shirazi recommends this formula because it contains vitamin K, which helps with blood clotting and promotes circulation. "This can lessen the appearance of dark circles that are formed by blood pooling under the thin skin," she explains. The formula also has hyaluronic acid to restore moisture levels and help plump the look of sunken eyes. Over time, you'll notice improvement in discoloration and under-eyes that are more firm and elastic. You can use it once or twice daily.

Key ingredients:Vitamin K and hyaluronic acid
Size:0.5 oz

Advertisement - Continue Reading Below

3

Best Eye Cream with SPF

Colorescience Total Eye 3-in-1 Renewal Therapy SPF 35

These Eye Creams for Dark Circles Are Like 8-Hours of Sleep In a Jar (17)

Why We Love It
  • These Eye Creams for Dark Circles Are Like 8-Hours of Sleep In a Jar (18)Offers SPF protection
  • These Eye Creams for Dark Circles Are Like 8-Hours of Sleep In a Jar (19)Supports collagen production
  • These Eye Creams for Dark Circles Are Like 8-Hours of Sleep In a Jar (20)Hydrating
What to Consider
  • These Eye Creams for Dark Circles Are Like 8-Hours of Sleep In a Jar (21)There are only four shades

The neat thing about this tinted formula is that it immediately covers up the look of darkness and hyperpigmentation, similar to a concealer, but it also improves skin tone over time and so much more. It's packed with powerful ingredients, such as seawater and marine microalgae to address skin laxity and support collagen production for firmer-looking skin. It also contains an ingredient called Aldavine 5x, which is unique to the brand and consists of polysaccharides that minimize puffiness and pigmentation. The inclusion of SPF 35 also protects skin from further damage.

Key ingredients:Sea water, marine microalgae, plant-based hyaluronic acid, polysaccharides, peptides, and vitamins
Size:0.23 oz

4

Best Brightening Eye Cream

Drunk Elephant C-Tango™ Vitamin C Eye Cream

These Eye Creams for Dark Circles Are Like 8-Hours of Sleep In a Jar (22)

Why We Love It
  • These Eye Creams for Dark Circles Are Like 8-Hours of Sleep In a Jar (23)Helps reduce darkness
  • These Eye Creams for Dark Circles Are Like 8-Hours of Sleep In a Jar (24)Peptides target loss of firmness
What to Consider
  • These Eye Creams for Dark Circles Are Like 8-Hours of Sleep In a Jar (25)Some reviewers say it can pill under makeup

Vitamin C is a gold-standard brightening ingredient. This special formula contains not one, but five forms of the ingredient to dramatically improve the look of darkness and even out skin tone. Additionally, it contains a blend of eight kinds of peptides to target loss of firmness, fine lines, and wrinkles. Ceramides, plant oils, and cucumber extract also hydrate and protect skin. Over time, you'll notice this formula helps tamp down shadow-causing bags, which is why it comes highly recommended by Shirazi.

Key ingredients:Vitamin C, peptides, cucumber extract, and ceramides
Size:0.5 oz

Advertisement - Continue Reading Below

5

Best Fast-Absorbing Eye Cream

Dr. Dennis Gross Skincare Advanced Retinol + Ferulic Triple Correction Eye Serum

These Eye Creams for Dark Circles Are Like 8-Hours of Sleep In a Jar (26)

Why We Love It
  • These Eye Creams for Dark Circles Are Like 8-Hours of Sleep In a Jar (27)Lightweight
  • These Eye Creams for Dark Circles Are Like 8-Hours of Sleep In a Jar (28)Stimulates collagen production
  • These Eye Creams for Dark Circles Are Like 8-Hours of Sleep In a Jar (29)Ferulic acid and rambutan help soothe and protect skin
What to Consider
  • These Eye Creams for Dark Circles Are Like 8-Hours of Sleep In a Jar (30)Retinol can be irritating for sensitive skin

If you don't like the feeling of a thick eye cream or want something that is lightweight and will quickly absorb into skin, you'll love this formula. In addition to being weightless and easy to apply, it's chockfull of powerful actives (read: retinol, ferulic acid, bakuchiol, and rambutan) that reduce the look of dark circles, increase hydration, firmness, and smoothness. "As we age, we lose collagen, which is why eyes can develop a sunken appearance," says Sperling. It also has antioxidants and hydrating properties.

Key ingredients:Retinol, ferulic acid, bakuchiol, and rambutan
Size:0.5 oz

6

Best Drugstore Eye Cream

Olay Regenerist Retinol24 Night Eye Cream

These Eye Creams for Dark Circles Are Like 8-Hours of Sleep In a Jar (31)

Why We Love It
  • These Eye Creams for Dark Circles Are Like 8-Hours of Sleep In a Jar (32)Reduces hyperpigmentation
  • These Eye Creams for Dark Circles Are Like 8-Hours of Sleep In a Jar (33)Budget-friendly
What to Consider
  • These Eye Creams for Dark Circles Are Like 8-Hours of Sleep In a Jar (34)Retinol can be irritating for sensitive skin

Niacinamide, aka vitamin B3, is a powerhouse ingredient, says Penzi. It has natural anti-inflammatory properties that help calm skin and combat hyperpigmentation. Penzi likes this drugstore option not only because it's budget-friendly, but it also pairs niacinamide with retinol, making it the perfect affordable solution for dark circles, she says. The formula also contains vitamin E, an antioxidant that protects skin from environmental aggressors, but it's also a hydrating ingredient that nourishes skin.

Key ingredients:Retinoid complex, niacinamide, and vitamin E
Size:0.5 oz

Advertisement - Continue Reading Below

7

Best Eye Cream for Oily Skin

Glow Recipe Guava Vitamin C Bright-Eye Gel Cream

These Eye Creams for Dark Circles Are Like 8-Hours of Sleep In a Jar (35)

Why We Love It
  • These Eye Creams for Dark Circles Are Like 8-Hours of Sleep In a Jar (36)Gel consistency is light but hydrating
  • These Eye Creams for Dark Circles Are Like 8-Hours of Sleep In a Jar (37)Peptides target crepey and sagging skin
  • These Eye Creams for Dark Circles Are Like 8-Hours of Sleep In a Jar (38)Brightens darkness
What to Consider
  • These Eye Creams for Dark Circles Are Like 8-Hours of Sleep In a Jar (39)Some buyers don't like the packaging because the pump doesn't extend to the bottom of the bottle

Containing an encapsulated blend of vitamin C that slowly and gently releases over time, this eye cream helps brighten without irritating the skin, says Garshick. It also contains niacinamide, peptides, and green caffeine, which all help to improve the appearance of multiple types of dark circles. The gel texture is lightweight and refreshing, making it a great pick for those with combination or oily skin who want something hydrating that doesn't feel too heavy or greasy.

Key ingredients:Vitamin C, niacinamide, peptides and green caffeine
Size:0.5 fl oz

8

Best Eye Cream for Mature Skin

Skinceuticals A.G.E. Advanced Eye

These Eye Creams for Dark Circles Are Like 8-Hours of Sleep In a Jar (40)

Why We Love It
  • These Eye Creams for Dark Circles Are Like 8-Hours of Sleep In a Jar (41)Targets common signs of aging
  • These Eye Creams for Dark Circles Are Like 8-Hours of Sleep In a Jar (42)Immediately improves look of tired eyes
  • These Eye Creams for Dark Circles Are Like 8-Hours of Sleep In a Jar (43)Works to reduce brightness overtime
  • These Eye Creams for Dark Circles Are Like 8-Hours of Sleep In a Jar (44)Strengthens and protects skin
What to Consider
  • These Eye Creams for Dark Circles Are Like 8-Hours of Sleep In a Jar (45)It's a splurge

For those looking to tackle dark circles and common signs of aging skin, Garshick recommends this formula. It's a silky, creamy formula that contains ProxylaneTM, an environmentally friendly synthetic ingredient derived from birch and beech wood to strengthen the skin barrier and increase firmness. It also has a peptide that supports tighter and more elastic skin. What's more? It also includes caffeine and an inclusive blend of optical diffusers to disperse light and immediately improve the radiance of tired, dull-looking eyes across all skin tones.

Key ingredients:ProxylaneTM, peptides, caffeine, and optical diffusers
Size:0.5 oz

Advertisement - Continue Reading Below

9

Best Firming Eye Cream

Paula's Choice Clinical Ceramide-Enriched Firming Eye Cream

These Eye Creams for Dark Circles Are Like 8-Hours of Sleep In a Jar (46)

Why We Love It
  • These Eye Creams for Dark Circles Are Like 8-Hours of Sleep In a Jar (47)Protects skin
  • These Eye Creams for Dark Circles Are Like 8-Hours of Sleep In a Jar (48)Hydrating
  • These Eye Creams for Dark Circles Are Like 8-Hours of Sleep In a Jar (49)Has a rich texture
What to Consider
  • These Eye Creams for Dark Circles Are Like 8-Hours of Sleep In a Jar (50)Retinol can be irritating for sensitive skin

This formula contains vitamin C and retinol to firm and brighten the skin. Despite those heavy-hitting active ingredients, though, it's very hydrating and wards off potential irritation, thanks to ceramides. "Hydrators like ceramides, or hyaluronic acid and glycerin, are excellent ingredients to look for in under-eye creams because they protect the skin barrier and help to plump the skin to give it an overall smoother and lighter appearance," Penzi says. While you can use it day and night, make sure to follow up with SPF in the morning because it contains retinol.

10

Best Eye Cream with Glowing Finish

Live Tinted Superhue Brightening Eye Cream

These Eye Creams for Dark Circles Are Like 8-Hours of Sleep In a Jar (51)

Why We Love It
  • These Eye Creams for Dark Circles Are Like 8-Hours of Sleep In a Jar (52)Reduces look of darkness immediately and over time
  • These Eye Creams for Dark Circles Are Like 8-Hours of Sleep In a Jar (53)Cooling applicator helps depuff
  • These Eye Creams for Dark Circles Are Like 8-Hours of Sleep In a Jar (54)Great for under makeup
What to Consider
  • These Eye Creams for Dark Circles Are Like 8-Hours of Sleep In a Jar (55)Some reviewers say the radiant finish can be too much

This formula brightens dark circles in a few ways. It has a slight tint that blends into your skin and helps to very lightly conceal and it contains niacinamide, caffeine, and vitamin C to improve the look of hyperpigmentation. However, it also has a subtle sheen to it, adding a boost of natural radiance and luminosity to the skin, which is perfect for wearing underneath makeup to brighten. The cooling applicator also helps to reduce puffiness and soothe the skin.

Key ingredients:Niacinamide, caffeine, and vitamin C
Size:0.5 oz

Advertisement - Continue Reading Below

11

Best Budget Eye Cream

CeraVe Eye Repair Cream

These Eye Creams for Dark Circles Are Like 8-Hours of Sleep In a Jar (56)

Why We Love It
  • These Eye Creams for Dark Circles Are Like 8-Hours of Sleep In a Jar (57)Gentle formula
  • These Eye Creams for Dark Circles Are Like 8-Hours of Sleep In a Jar (58)Affordable
What to Consider
  • These Eye Creams for Dark Circles Are Like 8-Hours of Sleep In a Jar (59)Due to the gentle formulation, some reviewers say it can take a while to see results

Besides two big benefits of this derm go-to—"it's cheap and available over the counter," Sperling says—the formula is especially effective at plumping skin to help counteract dark shadows thanks to niacinamide, and a marine and botanical complex. Ceramides and hyaluronic acid restore moisture and protect the skin barrier. And like all CeraVe products, this formula is hypoallergenic and non-comedogenic (meaning it doesn't clog pores), making it gentle enough for sensitive skin.

Key ingredients:Niacinamide, ceramides, hyaluronic acid, marine and botanical complex
Size:0.5 oz

12

Best Fragrance-Free Eye Cream

OLE HENRIKSEN Banana Bright+ Vitamin C Eye Crème

These Eye Creams for Dark Circles Are Like 8-Hours of Sleep In a Jar (60)

Why We Love It
  • These Eye Creams for Dark Circles Are Like 8-Hours of Sleep In a Jar (61)Brightening
  • These Eye Creams for Dark Circles Are Like 8-Hours of Sleep In a Jar (62)Great under makeup
  • These Eye Creams for Dark Circles Are Like 8-Hours of Sleep In a Jar (63)Very hydrating
What to Consider
  • These Eye Creams for Dark Circles Are Like 8-Hours of Sleep In a Jar (64)If you were a already a fan of this option, it's important to note that it was recently reformulated

You may have heard of or seen this iconic eye cream on your social media feeds at one point or another. That's because, as we know, vitamin C is the name of the game when it comes to brightening skin, and this bestselling formula contains a trio of powerful vitamin C extracts to help visibly minimize darkness—it's one of Penzi's go-tos. It also strikes the perfect balance between hydrating and creamy without being too rich or heavy.

Key ingredients:Vitamin C complex
Size:0.5 oz

Advertisement - Continue Reading Below

13

Best Retinol Eye Cream for Sensitive Skin

First Aid Beauty Retinol Eye Cream with Squalane + Ceramides

These Eye Creams for Dark Circles Are Like 8-Hours of Sleep In a Jar (65)

Why We Love It
  • These Eye Creams for Dark Circles Are Like 8-Hours of Sleep In a Jar (66)Slowly releases retinol into skin to ward off irritation
  • These Eye Creams for Dark Circles Are Like 8-Hours of Sleep In a Jar (67)Smooths the look of lines, wrinkles, and darkness
What to Consider
  • These Eye Creams for Dark Circles Are Like 8-Hours of Sleep In a Jar (68)Some reviewers noted that the product can separate

Camp loves to recommend this option to patients who want something powerful and efficacious, but also don't want to experience potential drawbacks. Designed with sensitive skin at top of mind, this formula contains encapsulated retinol, meaning it gently releases the ingredient into your skin to smooth fine lines and wrinkles and even out skin tone without causing irritation. The addition of squalane and ceramides is there to hydrate, calm, soothe, and strengthen the skin barrier.

Key ingredients:Retinol and squalane
Size:0.5 oz

14

Best Serum

Kiehl's Since 1851 Powerful-Strength Dark Circle-Diminishing Vitamin C Eye Serum

These Eye Creams for Dark Circles Are Like 8-Hours of Sleep In a Jar (69)

Why We Love It
  • These Eye Creams for Dark Circles Are Like 8-Hours of Sleep In a Jar (70)Reduces the look of fine lines and wrinkles
  • These Eye Creams for Dark Circles Are Like 8-Hours of Sleep In a Jar (71)Lightweight texture
What to Consider
  • These Eye Creams for Dark Circles Are Like 8-Hours of Sleep In a Jar (72)May not be suitable for very sensitive skin

An eye cream that says to reduce the look of dark circles in as little as seven days seems like an overpromise. But alas, this formula works overtime to soften the look of darkness, puffiness, and wrinkles. It's a hydrating serum that contains 10 percent pure vitamin C, hyaluronic acid, and peptides, says Camp. "Peptides are the building blocks of proteins, like collagen. Promoting collagen helps decrease the appearance of lines and crow’s-feet."

Key ingredients:Vitamin C, peptides, and hyaluronic acid
Size:0.5 oz

Advertisement - Continue Reading Below

15

Best Drugstore Eye Cream for Wrinkles

Neutrogena Rapid Wrinkle Repair Eye Cream

These Eye Creams for Dark Circles Are Like 8-Hours of Sleep In a Jar (73)

Why We Love It
  • These Eye Creams for Dark Circles Are Like 8-Hours of Sleep In a Jar (74)Affordable
  • These Eye Creams for Dark Circles Are Like 8-Hours of Sleep In a Jar (75)Plumping and hydrating
  • These Eye Creams for Dark Circles Are Like 8-Hours of Sleep In a Jar (76)Tackles wrinkles and dark circles
What to Consider
  • These Eye Creams for Dark Circles Are Like 8-Hours of Sleep In a Jar (77)Retinol can be irritating for sensitive skin

Infused with retinol, this eye cream addresses a boatload of under-eye concerns, including dark circles, dullness, and fine lines and wrinkles, says Garshick. Hyaluronic acid is also included to plump and hydrate the eyes. The cherry on top? You can find this budget-friendly pick at your local drugstore. If you're a beginner to retinol, add it to your nighttime routine once a week and increase frequency as tolerated. And always make sure to use SPF in the morning.

Key ingredients:Retinol and hyaluronic acid
Size:0.5 oz

16

Most Potent Eye Cream

BeautyStat Cosmetics Universal C Eye Perfector

These Eye Creams for Dark Circles Are Like 8-Hours of Sleep In a Jar (78)

Why We Love It
  • These Eye Creams for Dark Circles Are Like 8-Hours of Sleep In a Jar (79)Stable vitamin C formula
  • These Eye Creams for Dark Circles Are Like 8-Hours of Sleep In a Jar (80)Long-lasting
What to Consider
  • These Eye Creams for Dark Circles Are Like 8-Hours of Sleep In a Jar (81)It's a splurge

One of the downsides of vitamin C is that it tends to oxidize quickly, rendering it unstable and ineffective. This patented formula, created by cosmetic chemist Ron Robinson, reduces that possibility to deliver maximum potency and faster results. It's basically vitamin C in its purest form to help brighten skin and reduce the look of puffiness, dullness, and hyperpigmentation. "It also contains hyaluronic acid, which helps to boost moisture and plump the under-eye skin," says Garshick.

Key ingredients:Vitamin C
Size:0.5 oz

Advertisement - Continue Reading Below

17

Best Eye Cream for Hyperpigmentation

SkinMedica Instant Bright Eye Cream

These Eye Creams for Dark Circles Are Like 8-Hours of Sleep In a Jar (82)

Why We Love It
  • These Eye Creams for Dark Circles Are Like 8-Hours of Sleep In a Jar (83)Supports melanin production
  • These Eye Creams for Dark Circles Are Like 8-Hours of Sleep In a Jar (84)Protects against free radical damage
What to Consider
  • These Eye Creams for Dark Circles Are Like 8-Hours of Sleep In a Jar (85)It's a splurge

This unique formula has phenylethyl resorcinol, which helps to balance melanin production and even out hyperpigmentation. Marine extracts also tackle discoloration, hyaluronic acid hydrates, and flower stem cell extracts fight against free radical damage, which can cause premature signs of aging (read: dark spots, fine lines, wrinkles, etc.) if left unprotected. Admittedly, it's a bit of a splurge, however, this ultra-hydrating, brightening, and depuffing formula is worth every penny and is recommended by Shirazi.

Key ingredients:Phenylethyl resorcinol, marine extracts, and flower stem cell extracts
Size:0.5 oz

18

Best Nighttime Eye Cream

AziMD Skincare Eyeglow PM

These Eye Creams for Dark Circles Are Like 8-Hours of Sleep In a Jar (86)

Why We Love It
  • These Eye Creams for Dark Circles Are Like 8-Hours of Sleep In a Jar (87)It contains multiple active ingredients to target darkness
  • These Eye Creams for Dark Circles Are Like 8-Hours of Sleep In a Jar (88)Stimulates collagen production
What to Consider
  • These Eye Creams for Dark Circles Are Like 8-Hours of Sleep In a Jar (89)It's only sold on the brand's website

Shirazi recommends her own nighttime formulation, which has everything you need to address the different causes of dark circles. For example, the retinol in it stimulates collagen production and improves skin tone, arnica and vitamin K boost microcirculation and reduce dark circles, vitamin C brightens and protects, caffeine depuffs, and niacinamide brightens and soothes inflammation. Ceramides also help strengthen and protect the skin barrier. It checks all the boxes.

Key ingredients:Retinol, ceramides, niacinamide, vitamin C, vitamin K, and caffeine
Size:0.5 oz

Advertisement - Continue Reading Below

How We Chose the Best Eye Creams for Dark Circles

These Eye Creams for Dark Circles Are Like 8-Hours of Sleep In a Jar (90)

Our beauty team is dedicated to finding you the best of the best formulas. We spoke with dermatologists to learn about what to look for in an eye cream for dark circles and got their go-to recommendations. We also researched and tested top-rated and brand-new formulas that hit the market to help you find the best products out there.

These Eye Creams for Dark Circles Are Like 8-Hours of Sleep In a Jar (91)

Genesis Rivas

Genesis Rivas is the Beauty Editor at Oprah Daily, where she covers hair, makeup, skin, nails, and more. Before joining the Oprah Daily team, she wrote for several publications, including InStyle, Real Simple, and Shape. When she’s not testing, researching, and writing fun and educational beauty content, you can find her dancing and eating her way through New York City. Follow her on Instagram or TikTok

These Eye Creams for Dark Circles Are Like 8-Hours of Sleep In a Jar (2024)
Top Articles
Latest Posts
Recommended Articles
Article information

Author: Francesca Jacobs Ret

Last Updated:

Views: 5997

Rating: 4.8 / 5 (48 voted)

Reviews: 95% of readers found this page helpful

Author information

Name: Francesca Jacobs Ret

Birthday: 1996-12-09

Address: Apt. 141 1406 Mitch Summit, New Teganshire, UT 82655-0699

Phone: +2296092334654

Job: Technology Architect

Hobby: Snowboarding, Scouting, Foreign language learning, Dowsing, Baton twirling, Sculpting, Cabaret

Introduction: My name is Francesca Jacobs Ret, I am a innocent, super, beautiful, charming, lucky, gentle, clever person who loves writing and wants to share my knowledge and understanding with you.