While dark circles are often due to genetic factors, other factors, including lack of sleep, dehydration, seasonal allergies, and under-eye sun damage can play a part. Although making lifestyle changes to get to the root cause of the (sadly) very common skincare problem is the ideal solution, there are plenty of topical treatments to help illuminate dark circles and combat recurrent discoloration. Even if you have been genetically cursed with chronic dark circles, there are plenty of effective eye cream formulas that will help fade the darkness and brighten the area—all without having to resort to an in-office treatment.
Unfortunately, many of these corrective treatments are only able to yield temporary results, meaning that you’ll have to use them every day to see results—but that doesn’t mean you’re completely out of luck when it comes to improving pesky under-eye contours. Many darkness-lifting eye cream products are powered with caffeine, which, when applied topically to the under eyes helps to tighten blood vessels, which in turn, helps to reduce discoloration as well as puffiness. Other shadow-reducing agents include vitamin C, retinol, and some peptides.
Alas, with the help of a good full-coverage concealer and one of these under-eye creams, your peepers will be perked up in no time. Read on to check out our favorite formulas.
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1. Organys Eye Cream for Dark Circles
Courtesy of Amazon.
Powered by a blend of anti-aging peptides and brightening vitamin C, and skin firming caffeine, this effective eye cream not only lightens under-eye darkness, but it also helps to soften the look of fine lines and wrinkles. It also contains hydration-boosting hyaluronic acid to moisturize dry under eyes for a more rested, youthful look.
2. LilyAna Naturals Eye Cream
Courtesy of Amazon.
Your eyes get the best treatment with this cream’s skin-benefitting ingredients, such as botanicals and antioxidants. The formula helps fight visible signs of aging, but it also provides deep moisture. Your under-eye area should feel wide awake, youthful, and rejuvenated after applying this cream.
3. Baebody Eye Gel for Under & Around Eyes
Courtesy of Amazon.
While technically a gel rather than a cream formula, this eye treatment effectively knocks out the look of dark circles and hyperpigmentation for a wide-eyed, well-rested effect. The formula is chock full of smoothing and anti-aging ingredients including peptides to lift shadows, Matrixyl 3000 to improve the appearance of fine lines and crows feet, and vitamin E for enhanced elasticity.
4. L'Oreal Paris Skincare Dermo-Expertise Eye Defense Eye Cream
Courtesy of Amazon.
Infused with skin-brightening caffeine and hydrating hyaluronic acid, this multipurpose eye cream targets multiple signs of aging in the eye region. The non-greasy formula can be used at night or worn under makeup during the day for smooth, non-crepey canvas. The lightweight formula is also suitable for all skin types and is safe for those who wear contacts.
5. Neutrogena Rapid Wrinkle Repair Under Eye Cream
Courtesy of Amazon.
This eye cream will help brighten your under-eye area and give it a much-needed boost within just a week of use. The formula includes hyaluronic acid, which helps rejuvenate skin and reduce wrinkles. Just keep in mind that there is retinol in this eye cream, so be sure to apply sunscreen to protect your skin when you go outside.
6. EltaMD Renew Eye Gel for Dark Circles
Courtesy of EltaMD.
Packed with peptides and natural extracts, this under-eye cream works to reduce the appearance of wrinkles, dark circles and fine lines. It even tackles morning puffiness. You can use this eye cream both in the morning and at night. EltaMD says you can usually see results within 30 days.
7. CeraVe Eye Repair Cream
Courtesy of Amazon.
If you’re a fan of slightly thicker eye creams that give you that instantly moisturized feeling, CeraVe’s Eye Repair Cream is for you. The three essential ceramides help you maintain a healthy skin barrier, while a marine and botanical complex lessens the appearance of dark circles under your eyes. This formula is also great for people with more sensitive skin, as it’s fragrance-free, hypoallergenic, and non-comedogenic.