The 5 Best Eye Serums For Dark Circles, Puffiness & Fine Lines: Elemis Absolute Eye Serum & More
Think of skincare serums as the powerful 1-2 punches that they are. Packed with nutrient-rich ingredients, serums deliver a concentrated amount of nourishing goodness to your skin and are usually lightweight enough to layer under moisturizer and sunscreen. An eye serum is an especially wonderful product to incorporate into your routine because the skin under and around your eyes is among the thinnest and most delicate and sensitive on your face. It benefits greatly from effective ingredients that can help boost collagen production and keep the area taut and even in tone.
You may be interested in using an eye serum, but have no idea where to even begin choosing one. Since dermatologists are our sources of knowledge for all-things skincare, it’s a good idea to pick dermatologist-approved serums that have been proven effective. Here are five of the best for your eyes.
Avène Hyaluron Activ B3 Triple Correction Eye Care
Dermatologists love skincare that is clean, with key ingredients that are celebrated for providing tangible results. This eye cream by Avéne is formulated with brightening niacinamide, soothing and softening hyaluronic acid, and it is said to have a cooling effect on the skin. It won’t leave greasy residue behind and is suitable for all skin types. One reviewer notes that it’s great for layering beneath other skincare and makeup products: “Soothing for puffy eyes; makes great base for under-eye concealer/makeup.”
You can purchase this one at Dermstore for $40.
Elemis Absolute Eye Serum
If you’re searching for an eye serum to help address puffiness, discoloration, and under-eye circles, this one contains an extract of the chamomile plant called Anthemis Nobilis Flower Oil that has both anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. It’s formulated with other plant extracts, as well, and is gentle, lightweight, and firming to the skin. It is recommended that you apply just two drops of serum around the upper and lower eyelid.
This pick boasts many glowing reviews, including this one: “I have tried many, many eye creams but this one is different. I was looking for something to tighten up the bags under my eyes and this had by far done the best job. It also helps with wrinkles around the eyes.”
Buy it at the retailer LovelySkin for $55.
SkinCeuticals AOX Eye Gel
SkinCeuticals is a skincare darling for many dermatologists, and this cooling eye gel is no exception. It contains a powerful antioxidant combination of 1% phloretin, 5% l-ascorbic acid (Vitamin C), and 0.5% ferulic acid to protect delicate skin against free radicals and improve the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, and discoloration. But it also has caffeine for de-puffing and is free of sensitizing ingredients like alcohol and fragrances. One reviewer warns not to expect sudden, significant changes in your eye area, but to think of this eye gel as a preventative measure: “I have used this for years, I like that it is an antioxidant for the delicate eye area and also wakes up the eye area too. It's preventive so you don't necessarily see a huge difference but you want to prevent before having to correct.”
Buy it on Dermstore for $104.
Charlotte Tilbury Magic Serum With Vitamin C
This serum is an absolute cult favorite and it’s a good option if you don’t want to spend money on a separate eye serum — you can use this one all over your face. It contains Vitamin C and Polyglutamic Acid to brighten skin, lighten dark spots, reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, and plump skin. It also contains niacinamide, which refines the skin’s texture and can make pores look smaller. And it’s ideal for all skin types.
According to one reviewer: “I received this item as a sample in my purchase and when i tell you.. it leaves my face FLAWLESS!! the base under my foundation is so smooth and allows my makeup to stay in place - will definitely be purchasing the full size!”
Snag the mini version of this product on Sephora for $30 to try it out and see if you like it.
The Ordinary Caffeine 5% + EGCG Depuffing Eye Serum
The Ordinary is proof that you don’t have to spend $100 on a great eye serum if you don’t want to. This pick contains a high concentration of caffeine, supplemented with epigallocatechin gallatyl glucoside (EGCG) from green tea leaves — and that adds up to de-puffing magic. This pick is safe enough to use in the morning and at night and is lightweight, non-greasy, and less than $10.
One reviewer has this to say: “I’ve been using this Caffeine solution 5% as part of my skin care routine, along side Squalene cleanser, "Buffet" and the ordinary natural moisturising factors too, as well as Retinol 0.2% in the evening. I've applied the caffeine solution twice a day to my under eye abs can honestly say I've seen a huge difference. The dark circles have almost disappeared. My eye area is naturally brighter without the need for concealer to cover dark circles. Will continue to use and would recommend if you're thinking of buying.”
Buy this serum at Ulta for $9.20.
