Let’s talk about something controversial: eye creams.
In theory, something as simple as a cream shouldn’t cause controversy, but here’s the deal: a lot of people wonder whether it’s even necessary to apply an eye cream — can’t a regular moisturizer suffice for all areas of your face? As great as it sounds to save a little money and own fewer products (and deal with less clutter in your bathroom), there are a few things to note about the under-eye area. First of all, it’s more sensitive than other areas of your face, which means if you’re using slightly more powerful ingredients that address acne or aging skin, they may be too harsh for your eyes. Second, the area around your eyes is thinner than other areas of your face, which means it can handle a thicker cream that will really target concerns like crow’s feet, wrinkles, and sun spots.
But back to that plus of using one cream for everything and saving money: you don’t have to spend a small fortune on an eye cream. While you can definitely find plenty of options that cost $50 or way, way more, that’s not necessary for achieving smoother skin. The best eye creams can be well within your budget while boasting natural ingredients that target skin concerns and even help lighten under-eye circles. We rounded up a few of our favorites — they may just make you change your mind about eye creams once and for all.
RoC Retinol Correxion Under Eye Cream
This best-selling eye cream costs just $22 but is considered among the best budget-conscious options thanks to its effective ingredients. The number one stand-out ingredient with this pick is retinol, considered a gold-standard ingredient for smoothing lines and wrinkles. The difference here is that the retinol is formulated perfectly for the delicate under-eye area, so it won’t create the same drying effect as your face retinol cream might. This cream is tested and approved by dermatologists and ophthalmologists and can help improve dark circles, puffiness, and lines.
CETAPHIL Hydrating Eye Gel-Cream
If you have super-sensitive skin, an ingredient like retinol may prove too harsh for you, even when it’s formulated for the eye area. That’s where Cetaphil comes in — this $16 eye cream has tens of thousands of Amazon reviews because it is perfect for hydrating sensitive skin. It’s formulated with intensely hydrating hyaluronic acid for smoothening skin and licorice extract that helps de-puff. The gel-cream formula is also much lighter than most, making it a perfect pick for layering under makeup.
COSRX Advanced Snail Peptide Eye Cream
You can thank one of Earth’s littlest friends — the snail — for why this snail peptide eye cream is so popular. It contains 72% snail secretion filtrate, which is extremely hydrating and can heal wounds and nourish and repair prematurely aging skin. In addition to this exciting ingredient, the $25 eye cream contains five different types of peptides, and brightening niacinamide. The hypoallergenic cream is free of sulfates and is dermatologist-tested.
e.l.f. Holy Hydration! Eye Cream
If your idea of a budget-friendly eye cream is one that clocks in at $15 or less, e.l.f. has you covered. This popular e.l.f eye cream costs just $10, is ideal for all skin types, and is formulated with ingredients like hyaluronic acid and peptides to help smoothen fine lines, keep skin hydrated, and make dark circles look less severe.
CITYGOO Caffeine Eye Cream
At just $15, this highly rated eye cream puts its star ingredient front and center: caffeine. Just as your morning cup makes you feel awake and alert, this cream can help de-puff, minimize dark circles, and prep you for the day ahead. It is also formulated with collagen, peptides, retinol, and glycerin, so expect it to help address signs of aging. The organic eye cream is vegan and cruelty-free, and one reviewer raved: “The CITYGOO product totally does what it says!! I’ve been applying everyday morning and night for the past 2 weeks, and I noticed fading of the dark circles and puffiness.”
