13 Best Eye Creams for Dark Circles And Other Signs of Aging

Written by Anoushka Sinha, Skincare Coach & Writer
Updated on Apr 29, 2024
Best Eye Creams for Dark Circles
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Wrinkles, dark circles, fine lines, and crow’s feet are a few of the signs that make you look tired and aged, even though you are feeling your best. To let this not be the case, you need to invest in the best eye cream for dark circles. They work wonders when it comes to hydrating and rejuvenating the delicate skin under your eyes. Basically, the under-eye skin tends to be thin and much more different from the rest of your face. Based on our findings, the signs of aging are most evident there and thus, you need to take extra care of the orbital area.  

With the right eye cream at your disposal, you can effectively soften the appearance of dark circles and other signs of aging. An ideal one will contain skin-loving ingredients like hyaluronic acid, caffeine, and niacinamide that help smooth and brighten dark circles while also aiding in the reduction of puffiness. In addition, other nourishing ingredients penetrate deeper, promote collagen production, and brighten your skin, making your eyes look awakened and the skin underneath healthy and hydrated. So, to boost up your eye bags and protect the sensitive skin under your eyes, seal it with the right product. 

Below, we have a comprehensive list of top eye creams for you to bid adieu to all under-eye-related woes as soon as possible. They not only work in fading away the signs the aging but also promote skin elasticity and firmness. So, without further ado, let us introduce to you our top picks!

13 Best Eye Creams for Dark Circles

Formulated with the goodness of active ingredients, CeraVe Eye Repair Cream aids in reducing the prominent appearance of dark circles and puffiness. It acts as a brightening cream that leaves under-eye bags healthy, smooth, and thoroughly hydrated. What makes it earn the top spot in the category of the best eye cream for dark circles and wrinkles is its patented MVE ingredient-delivery technology that promises long-lasting hydration and restores skin’s protective barrier. Adding to that, its non-greasy finish, fast-absorbing formula, and lightweight texture make it a sheer winner! 

What’s worth noting is the fact that this cream is accepted by the National Eczema Association and is completely safe for dry, oily, acne-prone skin and more!

Active Ingredients: Ceramides, niacinamide, and hyaluronic acid

Quantity: 0.5 oz

Pros
  • Calms down the skin
  • Budget-friendly
  • Non-comedogenic
  • Oil-free
  • Can be applied under makeup
  • Fragrance-free
  • Developed by dermatologists
  • Ophthalmologically-tested
Cons
  • Less quantity

Quick Tip:

Squeeze out a pea-sized amount of the cream on your ring finger. Pat it around the eye area and brow bone with gentle hands. For better results, apply it day and night.

  • Editor’s Pick

    LilyAna Naturals Eye Cream

    LilyAna Naturals Eye Cream
  • LilyAna Naturals Eye Cream is a failproof anti-aging moisturizer that helps eliminate all eye-related woes seamlessly. With its impeccable formulation and luxe blend of key ingredients, the cream aims to smooth and hydrate your under-eye bags and reduce the appearance of puffiness, crow’s feet, and saggy skin. The reason why users label it as the best eye cream for wrinkles and dark circles is due to its quick-absorbing texture that significantly targets loss of firmness, elasticity, dryness, and discoloration. Bonus — the cream boosts collagen production and brightens your skin tone! 

    Active Ingredients: Rosehip oil, aloe vera, hibiscus flower extract, and niacinamide 

    Quantity: 1.7 oz

    Pros
    • Vegan
    • Non-toxic
    • Cruelty-free
    • Provides all-day protection
    • Free from parabens and sulfates
    • Doesn’t contain synthetic fragrances
    Cons
    • Might irritate extremely sensitive skin
  • Best Anti-aging Formula

    RoC Retinol Correxion Line Smoothening Eye Cream

    RoC Retinol Correxion Line Smoothening Eye Cream
  • The next on our list of recommendations is RoC Retinol Correxion Eye Cream renowned for its line of anti-aging properties and clinically proven formula that rejuvenates the delicate skin around your eyes. This eye cream for dark circles and wrinkles also has the power to soften the appearance of crow’s feet, fine lines, and uneven skin tone and leave skin firm and hydrated. In addition, the cream prevents the occurrence of the signs of aging and acts as an apt treatment to attain healthy and more youthful-looking under eyes that make you look much younger than your real age! 

    If you are applying this cream during that day, then make sure you layer your skin with RoC Multi Correxion Sunscreen with SPF 30.

     Active Ingredients: Mineral complex and retinol 

    Quantity: 0.5 oz

    Pros
    • Hypoallergenic
    • Gentle formula
    • Ideal for everyday use
    • Non-comedogenic
    • Non-greasy texture
    • Visibly firms and lifts your skin
    • Dermatologically-tested
    Cons
    • Slow results
  • Most Rejuvenating

    Neutrogena Rapid Wrinkle Repair Retinol Eye Cream

    Neutrogena Rapid Wrinkle Repair Retinol Eye Cream
  • While on our quest to find the best eye cream for dark circles and puffiness, Neutrogena’s Rapid Wrinkle Repair Retinol Eye Cream caught our attention. We were spellbound looking at its astounding anti-aging formula that fades away the look of every sign of aging. Moreover, with a soothing complex, it brightens and evens out the look of the skin around your eyes. For an added dose of hydration, the cream plumps moisture and rejuvenates your skin deeply. 

    What’s the best part? It minimizes the potential for irritation and is regarded to be an apt product for your at-home anti-aging skincare routine. 

    Active Ingredients: Retinol, hyaluronic acid

    Quantity: 0.5 fl oz

    Pros
    • Paraben-free
    • Suitable for daily use
    • Best to be applied at night
    • Doesn’t contain mineral oil and dyes
    • Lightweight formula
    • Recommended by dermatologists
    Cons
    • Unsatisfactory packaging

    Quick Tip

    After cleansing your face, dab a small amount of the cream around the entire eye area with gentle hands. Pat your skin until the cream is absorbed into the skin fully.

  • Best with Color-correcting Technology

    Olay Eyes Ultimate Eye Cream

     Olay Eyes Ultimate Eye Cream
  • Olay Eyes Ultimate Eye Cream has managed to be among the favorites for a couple of good reasons. To start with, this eye cream is an all-rounder — it fights against wrinkles, puffy eyes, and dark circles and fortifies skin's natural moisture. Secondly, it features a color-correcting technology and has an opaque, pink texture with a hint of concealer that blends with all skin tones. Topping it all off, this is not just a good eye cream for dark circles but also the go-to product to enhance the look of tired-looking eyes. 

    Active Ingredients: Niacinamide, pigments, and peptides

    Quantity: 0.4 fl oz

    Pros
    • Fragrance-free
    • Creamy texture
    • Brightens eye area
    • Suits all skin types
    Cons
    • A bit drying
  • Best for Mature Skin

    L'Oreal Paris Age Perfect Rosy Tone

    L'Oreal Paris Age Perfect Rosy Tone
  • Moving on to another best eye cream for puffiness and dark circles —  L'Oreal Paris Age Perfect Rosy Tone! It not only works toward reducing the appearance of dark circles and wrinkles but also brightens the area around your eyes. Crafted especially for those with mature and dull skin, this anti-aging eye cream takes you a step ahead toward achieving a healthy and youthful-looking complexion. Once, you begin using this cream, you will notice that your under-eyes not just look a lot hydrated but your eyes also look awaken. 

    Active Ingredients: Salicylic acid and Imperial peony extract

    Quantity: 0.5 oz

    Pros
    • Reasonably priced
    • Non-sticky
    • Suitable for sensitive skin
    • Ophthalmologically-tested
    • Free from mineral oil
    • ested by dermatologists
    Cons
    • Thick consistency
  • Best Non-comedogenic Formula

    La Roche-Posay Pigmentclar Yeux/Eyes Correcteu

    La Roche-Posay Pigmentclar Yeux/Eyes Correcteu
  • This Pigmentclar Eyes Correcteur introduced by La Roche-Posay is a magical elixir packed in a tube. What makes it a must-have skincare product is its blend of key ingredients that work together to soften the appearance of blue and brown dark circles and amplify the radiance of your under-eye area. Mindfully crafted with light-reflecting pearl pigments, this cream is suitable for all skin types, including sensitive skin. 

    We also glanced through the review section and here is what a user has to say, “I've seen improvement after the first use, a week later my dark circles are gone. I don't know if this is temporary or permanent, doesn't matter to me As long as I have this eye cream for dark circles and puffiness!!!”

    Active Ingredients: Caffeine, pure retinol, and La Roche-Posay thermal spring water

    Quantity: 0.5 oz

    Pros
    • Gentle formula
    • Weightless texture
    • Oil-free
    • Non-comedogenic
    • Allergy-tested
    Cons
    • Expensive
  • Best Travel-friendly

    Isdin Isdinceutics K-Ox Eyes Cream

    Isdin Isdinceutics K-Ox Eyes Cream
  • Bid adieu to all of your under-eye-related woes with Isdinceutic K-Ox Eyes Cream for puffiness and dark circles. Packed with a punch of skin-loving ingredients and anti-aging benefits, it visibly firms and rejuvenates your skin. What is worth appreciating is the fact that this cream boosts skin elasticity and leaves skin feeling a lot firmer than before. 

    One of the satisfied users willingly shared, “I have only been using it for a few days and I have seen some noticeable changes. I have very sensitive skin and it hasn't given me any type of irritation. It is very moisturizing and gives my skin a natural glow. My dark circles have improved within a few days of application.”

    Active Ingredients: Hyaluronic acid and vitamin K

    Quantity: 0.5 oz

    Pros
    • Travel-friendly
    • Lightweight texture
    • Comes with a cooling ceramic applicator
    • Suitable for all skin types
    Cons
    • Super expensive
  • Best Hydration Booster

    Estee Lauder Advanced Night Repair Eye Supercharged Complex

    Estee Lauder Advanced Night Repair Eye Supercharged Complex
  • Estee Lauder has carefully designed the Advanced Night Repair Eye Supercharged Complex for those seeking to revitalize their under-eye bags by bidding farewell to dark circles, crow’s feet, wrinkles, and fine lines. What makes this cream stand apart from the rest is its multi-action, anti-pollution defense technology, and 8-hour anti-oxidant power that keeps free radical damage at bay. In addition, it repairs the visible impact of lack of sleep, UV, pollution, and even blue light. Within weeks of consistent usage, you will be drolling over hydrated and brightened under your eyes.

    Active Ingredients: Tripeptide-32 and hyaluronic acid

    Quantity: 5 oz

    Pros
    • Unscented
    • Featherlight formula
    • Prevents dryness
    • Creamy texture
    • Ideal for men and women
    Cons
    • Unsatisfactory quantity
  • Best Depuffing Cream

    Sunday Riley Auto Correct Eye Cream

    Sunday Riley Auto Correct Eye Cream
  • Say goodbye to puffiness with Sunday Riley’s Auto Correct Eye Cream loaded with skin-nourishing ingredients. It instantly lifts and firms your skin and prevents sagginess. Secondly, this eye cream for wrinkles and dark circles contains light-reflecting particles that awaken tired-looking eyes and provide an anti-oxidant defense. You can apply it during the day as well as at night and swoon over your glowing complexion. 

    One of the reviewers on Amazon confesses, “I have tried countless eye creams. I would rate this as one of the best lightweight creams that is smoothening and absorbs easily. I have seen a difference in my under-eye area in a very short time.”

    Active Ingredients: Horse chestnut, ginseng, watermelon extract, lutein, and Acmella oleracea extract

    Quantity: 0.5 fl oz

    Pros
    • Improves skin moisture barrier
    • Softens crow’s feet
    • Unscented
    • Cruelty-free
    • Gets absorbed easily
    • Easy to apply
    Cons
    • Overpriced
  • MyCHELLE Brighten Perfect C Eye Cream

    MyCHELLE Brighten Perfect C Eye Cream
  • By incorporating MyCHELLE Brighten Perfect C Eye Cream into your everyday skincare regime, you will be able to deal with those annoying signs of aging with ease. Be it wrinkles, dark circles, fine lines, or crow’s feet, this eye cream has the ability to diminish them all. Each of the key ingredients mentioned below has something or else to offer your skin which deeply nourishes, brightens, and promotes healthy skin aging. What left us stunned is the fact that this eye cream for bags and dark circles delivers humectant-rich nutrients that keep skin hydrated over the long run. For better results, follow it with MyChelle Dermaceuticals Pumpkin Renew Cream which acts as a flawless moisturizer.  

    Active Ingredients: Cucumber, sodium hyaluronate, plant stem cells, hyaluronic acid, and L-ascorbic acid

    Quantity: 0.5 oz

    Pros
    • Paraben-free
    • No artificial color
    • Ideal for mature skin
    • Available in a bigger size
    • Free from silicons and sulfates
    • Works for all skin types
    Cons
    • Feels a little sticky
  • Glow Recipe Avocado Retinol Eye Cream

    Glow Recipe Avocado Retinol Eye Cream
  • Packed with a punch of skin-hydrating ingredients, Glow Recipe’s Avocado Retinol Eye Cream has managed to attract all attention. This cream acts as a gentle yet potent puffy eye treatment that firms, hydrates, and depuffs the skin around your eyes. Furthermore, it combats dullness and paves the way to attain firmer-looking skin. What makes this eye cream for dark circles and bags earn a spot on our list is its anti-aging properties that promise to lend you a youthful glow!

    Active Ingredients: Avocado extract, hyaluronic acid, encapsulated retinol, niacinamide, and coffeeberry

    Quantity: 0.5 oz

    Pros
    • Vegan
    • Cruelty-free
    • Ophthalmologically-tested
    • Dermatologist-tested
    • Phthalates-free
    • Doesn’t contain drying alcohols
    Cons
    • Thick texture
  • CAUDALIE Vinoperfect Dark Circle Eye Cream

    CAUDALIE Vinoperfect Dark Circle Eye Cream
  • Lastly, we recommend Vinoperfect Dark Circle Eye Cream from CAUDALIE which comes in the form of serum. It visibly reduces all types of dark circles and is clinically proven to brighten your under-eye area. What’s worth noting? It is equipped with a refreshing ceramic tip that makes your application task a lot more fun and refreshing. A satisfied customer says, “The best in the world!!! I saw the results in 2 weeks. I used to have very dark circles under my eyes, but thanks to this product. It has improved their look significantly, it's incredible!”

    Active Ingredients: Caffeine, niacinamide, and viniferene 

    Quantity: 1.13 oz

    Pros
    • Fragrance-free
    • Ideal for AM and PM use
    • Tested under ophthalmological supervision
    • Vegan
    • Smoothens the skin
    Cons
    • Unsatisfactory packaging

    That was our comprehensive list of the best eye creams for dark circles. But, to prevent and reduce their appearance, you need to be well aware of the causes.

    Cause of Dark Circles?

    Firstly, there are mainly two types of dark circles. 

    • Blue and purple dark circles are typically caused due to lack of sleep and poor microcirculation of the blood. 
    • Brown and black dark circles are known as pigmented dark circles. They are the result of an overproduction of melanin which is largely responsible for their respective colors.

    Other causes of dark circles are rubbing of the eyes in people with eczema, allergies, and dry eyes. Dark circles can also be hereditary and occur due to aging which leads to loss of bone volume, collagen, and elastin. Since the skin under your eyes tends to be extremely sensitive and dedication, the signs of aging like dark circles, fine lines, wrinkles, and crow’s feet are most evident there.

    With the best under-eye cream for dark circles, you will be able to take due care of your skin. To help you make a wise investment, let us run you through a detailed buying guide.

    What to Consider Before Buying an Eye Cream for Dark Circles?

    Here are a few aspects that you should consider before splurging on the best eye cream for dark circles:

    Skin Type And Concerns: Make sure you analyze your skin type and concerns thoroughly before investing in any of the best eye creams for dark circles, puffiness, or fine lines. For those dealing with delicate and sensitive skin types, it is wise to invest in creams that are hypoallergenic, non-irritating, mild, and gentle. Likewise, if your under-eye bags tend to be oily, then an oil-free and non-comedogenic eye cream will be the right pick for you. 

    Ingredients: Next, pay heed to the list of ingredients. Based on our first-hand research, dermatologists highly recommend moisturizing eye creams that are loaded with retinol, vitamin C, ceramides, niacinamide, hyaluronic acid, kojic acid, botanical complex, benzoyl peroxide, vitamin B3, pigments, peptides, and salicylic acid. These ingredients tend to decrease the production of pigment, tighten the blood vessels, strengthen the skin barrier, hydrate the skin, increase skin firmness, promote collagen production, and thereby, minimize the look of under-eye puffiness and discoloration. Avoid eye creams that contain parabens, sulfates, alcohol, phthalates, and other harsh ingredients. 

    Texture And Formula: Analyze the texture of the eye cream. Drawing from our observations, it should be non-greasy, non-sticky, and easy to apply. Secondly, the formula should be lightweight and easy to absorb.

    Applicator: There are various ways of applying eye cream for dark circles. It largely depends on the packaging of the product. From wands to pumps and lipgloss-like tubes, you will find it all. For a more refreshing and cooling effect, you may pick good eye creams for dark circles that are equipped with a ceramic applicator. Remember to choose one that suits your preferences the most. 

    Once you have noted down the above-mentioned aspects, get to know the application steps for applying eye cream for dark circles.

    Steps to Apply Eye Cream for Dark Circles

    Step 1: Cleanse your face with a face wash or cleanser.

    Step 2: Pour a pea-sized amount of the eye cream on your ring fingers. 

    Step 3: Begin applying it to the entire orbital eye area with gentle hands. Start in the innermost corner and move outward.

    Step 4: Pat lightly for optimal absorption. Do not rub or massage rigorously. 

    Tada, you are done! Now that you have understood how to apply an under-eye cream for dark circles, acquaint yourself with the benefits of using one regularly.

    What Are the Benefits of Using Eye Cream for Dark Circles?

    • Fights dark circles, puffiness, crow’s feet, wrinkles, and fine lines.
    • Hydrates under-eye bags, and dry and dehydrated skin.
    • Protects delicate skin.
    • Creates a protective skin barrier.
    • Reduces pigmentation over time.
    • Prevents common signs of aging.
    • Minimize the look of discoloration. 
    • Brightens under the eye area.
    • Prepares your skin for makeup.
    • Promotes collagen production. 
    • Firms and strengthens your skin.
    • Soothes tired eyes.
    • Rich in potent antioxidants for sun protection.

    Conclusion

    That’s all folks! As long as you have the best eye creams for dark circles — puffiness, fine lines, wrinkles, and crow’s feet, nothing is going to stop you from making your under-eye area look a lot more youthful and healthier. Each eye cream packed with the goodness of hydrating and brightening elements aims to tighten and moisturize your skin to the fullest. After considering several factors like skin types, concerns, texture, formula, ingredients, reviews, and ratings, we managed to curate this fanciful list of the best eye creams for you. Out of them all, CeraVe Eye Repair Cream managed to seize the top spot for its splendid formulation and potent blend of key ingredients.

    For anyone who is seeking ways to restore firmness and skin elasticity, then LilyAna Naturals Eye Cream would be a great choice. Likewise, several creams in our list of recommendations deliver what they claim. So, wait no longer and invest in the one that suits your needs and preferences the most. Happy shopping!

    FAQ's

    Can dark circles be permanently removed by cream?
    Eye creams usually reduce the appearance of dark circles temporarily.
    Can lifestyle changes help reduce dark circles in addition to using eye cream?
    Yes, consuming a balanced diet and dedicated sleep cycles can help reduce dark circles in addition to using eye cream.
    How long does it typically take to see results from using eye cream for dark circles?
    It takes 30 to 60 days to see results from using eye cream for dark circles.
    Are there any side effects to using eye cream for dark circles?
    Yes, if used excessively or inappropriately, eye cream may cause irritation or sensitivity.
    Should I use a separate eye cream for daytime and nighttime?
    It depends on the formulation of the eye cream that you are using. It is okay to use a different or the same eye cream every day and night.
    Can I wear makeup over eye cream for dark circles?
    Yes, you may wear makeup over eye cream for dark circles.
    Are there any natural remedies or DIY treatments for dark circles that I can try alongside using eye cream?
    Yes, using cold tea bags, grated potatoes or grated cucumber, cold milk, and aloe vera can provide better results in addition to using an eye cream.
    How can I get rid of dark circles at home?
    You can get rid of dark circles at home by incorporating an eye cream into your everyday skincare regime.
    How can I get rid of dark circles fast?
    You can get rid of dark circles faster by indulging in homemade remedies and DIY treatments along with eye creams.

    Why Trust Pinkvilla

    Our certified skincare expert, Anoushka, has researched the best eye creams for dark circles after taking into consideration their formulation, list of key ingredients, texture, and, of course, honest feedback from users. She believes that using an eye cream can temporarily soften the appearance of the signs of aging. Hence, she went a step ahead and curated a list of highly-ranked eye creams for you to make a wise investment. From the list, it was RoC Retinol Correxion Line Smoothening Eye Cream that got her attention for the longest time for its astounding formula and texture. You can take a look at the rest of her top picks and incorporate the most suitable one into your regime. 

    Our product experts study the specifications of every product we suggest and try them out to bring what’s proven to be worthy of your money, time, and energy. We also have subject matter experts from various fields like Fashion, Skincare, Haircare, Home Decor, and Health & Fitness onboard to make sure our suggestions are credible and trustworthy. You can trust Select to be your faithful shopping guide for all the right reasons!

    Author BIO
    reviewer
    Anoushka Sinha
    Skincare Coach & Writer

    Anoushka is certified in Professional Skincare and is a Mass Media (Journalism) graduate from Mumbai University. As a More