AP Buyline’s content is created independently of The Associated Press newsroom. Our evaluations and opinions are not influenced by our advertising relationships, but we might earn commissions from our partners’ links in this content. Learn more about our policies and terms here.
They say the eyes are the windows to the soul, but we’d argue that they’re also personal billboards advertising your age, stress levels and sleep schedule. Kind of horrifying when you think about it, but that’s where a great eye cream comes in.
Unlike your standard facial moisturizer, eye creams are formulated specifically for the thin, fragile skin around your peepers. They're packed with potent ingredients like retinol, hyaluronic acid and peptides to hydrate, firm and brighten that delicate skin, and many target specific signs of aging like crow’s feet, fine lines and loss of elasticity.
Finding the best anti-aging eye cream for your skin type and aging concerns can feel like searching for a needle in a very expensive skincare haystack, so we’ve done the heavy lifting for you. These eye creams are so effective, they’ll transform even the most tired-looking eyes. Tell your favorite under-eye concealer that its days are numbered!
What to consider when buying an anti-aging eye cream
Ingredients
When you’re shopping for an anti-aging eye cream, look for proven ingredients that will tackle your specific aging concerns. The gold standard is retinol, a vitamin A derivative renowned for boosting cell turnover and battling wrinkles. Hyaluronic acid is key for deep hydration, helping to plump up the skin and minimize fine lines. Peptides are ideal for skin firming, enhancing collagen synthesis and reducing sagging. Vitamin C is a must for brightening dark circles and evening out skin tone. For sensitive skin, opt for natural ingredients like bakuchiol, which mimics the benefits of retinol without any harsh side effects, and soothing botanicals that won’t irritate the delicate area around the eyes.
Texture and consistency
The texture of your eye cream can make or break your experience. A lightweight gel or serum is ideal for oily or combination skin types since it absorbs quickly without feeling heavy. Creamier, thicker textures are perfect for dry skin because they provide intense hydration. Some eye creams provide a tingly, cooling sensation that helps with de-puffing, while others will have a more emollient feel — choose the one that suits your needs and feels best on your skin.
For daytime eye creams, opt for lightweight, fast-absorbing textures that won't interfere with makeup application. At night, go for richer, heavier creams that will rejuvenate the skin around your eyes while you sleep; these formulations often contain occlusive ingredients to lock in moisture and promote overnight skin repair.
Targeted benefits
The best anti-aging eye creams aren't one-size-fits-all: they're high-tech beauty products tailored to address specific skin concerns. Whether you're aiming to banish puffiness, lighten dark circles or smooth out fine lines and crow's feet, there's a formula out there made just for your needs. While most eye creams do offer basic hydrating and rejuvenating effects, it’s worth taking the time to figure out your biggest skincare concerns and address them with targeted products.
Our top picks for the best anti-aging eye creams
Best anti-aging eye cream with vitamin C: Dermalogica BioLumin-C Eye Serum
Dermalogica BioLumin-C Eye Serum
Ready for your daily dose of vitamin C? This ultra-light serum from Dermalogica will help you look bright-eyed and bushy-tailed — okay, maybe just bright-eyed — thanks to its stable vitamin C formulation. Not only will this serum help your skin fight off damage from free radicals, but it will also brighten, firm and hydrate the delicate under-eye area. You can use it at night, but the fast-absorbing gel works equally well as a morning wake-up call.
Specifications:
- Active ingredients: Vitamin C complex, chia seed oil, tremella mushroom extract.
- Texture: Lightweight serum.
- Size: 0.5 ounce.
- Cruelty-free: Yes.
- When to use: Morning and night.
- Price on publish: $74.
What we like:
- Potent vitamin C complex delivers noticeable brightening results.
- Serum absorbs quickly and leaves no sticky residue.
- Works well under makeup.
- Targets fine lines, wrinkles and dark circles.
What we don’t like:
- Those with very dry skin might prefer a heavier eye cream.
The AP Buyline takeaway:
Vitamin C is a morning skincare staple for good reason, and this eye serum is a worthy addition to your routine.
Get it here: Dermalogica BioLumin-C Eye Serum
Best firming anti-aging eye cream: Shiseido Vital Perfection Uplifting and Firming Eye Cream
Shiseido Vital Perfection Uplifting and Firming Eye Cream
Japanese beauty brand Shiseido is known for skincare products that are as luxe as they are effective, and this smooth, silky eye cream is no exception. A little goes a long way; you only need a tiny dollop of the rich cream to cover the skin around the eyes for instant hydration that’ll last all night. The small, sleek bottle doesn’t come cheap, but the firming and fine line-reducing results make it worth every penny.
Specifications:
- Active ingredients: Matsu extract and KURENAI-TruLift Complex with Benibana flower.
- Texture: Cream.
- Size: 0.5 ounce.
- Cruelty-free: No.
- When to use: Morning and/or night.
- Price on publish: $85.
What we like:
- Tightens and firms the undereye area while reducing the appearance of fine lines.
- Brightens and hydrates the skin around the eyes.
- Matsu extract helps with microcirculation to target bags and puffiness.
- Benibana flower works to strengthen and firm the skin.
What we don’t like:
- Some might find it too heavy to use in the morning; we prefer it as a night cream.
The AP Buyline takeaway:
A luxuriously potent eye cream that offers serious firming and hydrating results.
Get it here: Shiseido Vital Perfection Uplifting and Firming Eye Cream
Best anti-aging eye cream for wrinkles: Clinique Smart Clinical Repair Wrinkle Correcting Eye Cream
Clinique Smart Clinical Repair™ Wrinkle Correcting Eye Cream - 1oz/30ml
If you’re old enough to remember the original Aunt Viv on “The Fresh Prince of Bel Air,” you should probably be using a wrinkle-fighting eye cream at least once a day. Viv would certainly approve of this peptide-packed offering from Clinique, which has been clinically proven to strengthen the skin around the eyes and maintain its density while reducing the appearance of wrinkles and crow’s feet. Talk about a miraculous transformation (Viv would know).
Specifications:
- Active ingredients: CL1870 Peptide Complex, Sigesbeckia orientalis extract and hyaluronic acid.
- Texture: Cream.
- Size: 0.5 ounce.
- Cruelty-free: No.
- When to use: Morning and night.
- Price on publish: $59.
What we like:
- Dermatologist-tested, fragrance-free and allergy tested.
- Safe for contact lens wearers and sensitive eyes.
- Instant and long-lasting hydration.
- Visibly reduces puffiness.
- Helps smooth the skin around the eyes.
What we don’t like:
- Clinique isn’t a cruelty-free company.
The AP Buyline takeaway:
This wrinkle-fighting eye cream should be a skincare staple for millennials and Gen Xers.
Get it here: Clinique Smart Clinical Repair Wrinkle Correcting Eye Cream
Best anti-aging eye cream for dark circles: RoC Retinol Correxion Line Smoothing Eye Cream
RETINOL CORREXION Line Smoothing Eye Cream
Don’t mind the unassuming packaging — when it comes to skincare, it’s all about results. This smoothing eye cream from RoC is formulated with the brand’s award-winning retinol to target dark circles, puffiness and fine lines. You’ll notice brighter and firmer-looking skin around the eyes. It’s also gentle enough to use every day.
Specifications:
- Active ingredients: Retinol.
- Texture: Cream.
- Size: 0.5 ounce.
- Cruelty-free: Yes.
- When to use: Night.
- Price on publish: $29.99.
What we like:
- Affordable price.
- Clinically proven to reduce the appearance of dark circles, puffiness and crow’s feet.
- Hypoallergenic and non-comedogenic.
- Not greasy.
What we don’t like:
- Those who are sensitive to retinol may not be able to tolerate this on a daily basis.
The AP Buyline takeaway:
Dark circles and fine lines are no match for this powerful, non-irritating retinol eye cream.
Get it here: RoC Retinol Correxion Line Smoothing Eye Cream
Best anti-aging eye cream for wrinkles without retinol: Tata Harper Elixir Vitae Eye Serum Ultimate Wrinkle Solution
Tata Harper Elixir Vitae Eye Serum Ultimate Wrinkle Solution
If green beauty queen Tata Harper started a cult — hypothetically speaking! — giving out free samples of her all-natural products to new members, we’d be the first to sign up. That’s a testament to the quality of this clean skincare line, which uses sustainably sourced ingredients (grown on Harper’s Vermont farm) for its pure, potent formulations. This nourishing eye serum targets wrinkles, dryness and undereye bags with a mix of botanicals and the brand’s patented quadruple neuropeptide technology.
Specifications:
- Active ingredients: 54 botanicals including Spanish lavender and summer snowflake bulb.
- Texture: Rich serum.
- Size: 0.5 ounce.
- Cruelty-free: Yes.
- When to use: Morning and night.
- Price on publish: $350.
What we like:
- The company’s unique farm-to-face approach.
- Reduces the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines.
- Hydrating and brightening.
- Fresh floral scent.
- Feels so nice on the skin, you’ll look forward to applying it.
What we don’t like:
- Unlike the product itself, the price will make your eyes water.
The AP Buyline takeaway:
If you’re looking for an all-natural skincare splurge to target wrinkles, this eye cream is your best bet.
Get it here: Tata Harper Elixir Vitae Eye Serum Ultimate Wrinkle Solution
Best anti-aging eye cream for puffiness: Dr. Brandt Needles No More No More Baggage Eye De-Puffing Gel
Dr. Brandt Needles No More No More Baggage Eye De-Puffing Gel
This eye gel from dermatologist-founded skincare brand Dr. Brandt might be the closest we’ll get to a real-life blurring tool, at least when it comes to undereye bags and puffiness. The gel contains algae, plant extracts and silicates to help smooth and tighten the under-eye area on contact. With added benefits from a caffeine-tetrapeptide blend, it also tackles fluid retention while strengthening the skin's collagen and elastin.
Specifications:
- Active ingredients: Filmatrix technology (algae, plant extracts and silicates), peptides and caffeine.
- Texture: Gel.
- Size: 0.5 ounce.
- Cruelty-free: No.
- When to use: Morning.
- Price on publish: $48.
What we like:
- Offers both immediate and long-term results with regular use.
- Reduces the appearance of undereye bags and dark circles.
- Works well under makeup.
- Highly concentrated.
- Vegan, GMO-free, 85% natural origin ingredients.
What we don’t like:
- The brand recommends using a separate eye cream before applying this gel, which might feel like an annoying extra step for those who prefer a streamlined skincare routine.
The AP Buyline takeaway:
The advanced formula and impressive results make this gel a must-try for anyone wanting to banish a tired-looking appearance.
Get it here: Dr. Brandt Needles No More No More Baggage Eye De-Puffing Gel
Best under makeup anti-aging eye cream: Bobbi Brown Vitamin Enriched Eye Base
Bobbi Brown Vitamin Enriched Eye Cream & Primer - 15 ml
Bobbi Brown's Eye Base is like a multivitamin cocktail for the skin around your eyes, helping you prep the area for makeup while delivering long-lasting benefits. It’s formulated with hyaluronic acid and shea butter for all-day moisture, vitamins B3 and C to brighten up dark circles, and vitamin A to smooth out fine lines. Last but not least, it combines vitamin E and caffeine to fight puffiness and protect the delicate eye area. Your makeup — and your skin — will thank you.
Specifications:
- Active ingredients: Shea butter, hyaluronic acid, caffeine, vitamins A, B3, C and E.
- Texture: Lightweight cream.
- Size: 0.5 ounce.
- Cruelty-free: No.
- When to use: Morning.
- Price on publish: $64.
What we like:
- Primes the skin for makeup and enhances staying power.
- Prevents creasing and drying under makeup.
- Lightweight and fast-absorbing.
- Packed with skin-boosting ingredients.
What we don’t like:
- Might be too rich for those with very oily skin.
The AP Buyline takeaway:
A moisturizing, line-smoothing, crease-busting base for your eye makeup from an iconic makeup artist — what’s not to love?
Get it here: Bobbi Brown Vitamin Enriched Eye Base
Best anti-aging eye cream for dry skin: La Roche-Posay Hydraphase Intense Hyaluronic Acid Eye Cream
La Roche Posay Hydraphase Intense Hyaluronic Acid Eye Cream | Size 15 ml/0.5 fl oz
Like a tall glass of water for the skin around your eyes, this cream from La Roche-Posay is bursting with hyaluronic acid (a moisture magnet that keeps the skin plump and hydrated) and glycerin (which draws in water like a sponge). Add a dash of caffeine to de-puff and brighten dark circles and a splash of La Roche-Posay thermal spring water for its soothing, antioxidant-rich properties, and you've got a recipe for refreshed, rejuvenated eyes.
Specifications:
- Active ingredients: Hyaluronic acid, glycerin, caffeine, La Roche-Posay thermal spring water.
- Texture: Gel.
- Size: 0.5 ounce.
- Cruelty-free: No.
- When to use: Morning and night.
- Price on publish: $36.99.
What we like:
- Intensely hydrating.
- Plumping effect reduces the appearance of fine lines.
- Suitable for sensitive skin.
What we don’t like:
- A little goes a long way, and some customers have noted that using too much product can lead to irritation.
The AP Buyline takeaway:
Banish dry skin with this hydrating, smoothing and plumping eye cream.
Get it here: La Roche-Posay Hydraphase Intense Hyaluronic Acid Eye Cream
Best budget anti-aging eye cream: CeraVe Eye Repair Cream
CeraVe Eye Repair Cream | Under Eye Cream for Dark Circles and Puffiness | Suitable for Delicate Skin Under Eye Area | 0.5 Ounce
It’s no secret that eye creams can be pricey, so a wallet-friendly option that actually works is a sight for sore eyes (sorry, we had to). CeraVe’s Eye Repair Cream is like a spa day for the skin around your eyes, minus the cucumber slices. Infused with hyaluronic acid, niacinamide and ceramides, it targets dark circles and puffiness to make your peepers look positively peppy, even after a sleepless night.
Specifications:
- Active ingredients: Hyaluronic acid, niacinamide and ceramides.
- Texture: Cream.
- Size: 0.5 ounce.
- Cruelty-free: No.
- When to use: Morning and night.
- Price on publish: $11.30.
What we like:
- Reduces the appearance of undereye circles and puffiness.
- Provides all-day hydration.
- Fragrance-free formula.
- Approved by the National Eczema Association.
What we don’t like:
- Some customers have found that it doesn’t work well under makeup.
The AP Buyline takeaway:
A budget-friendly drugstore option that works just as well as some of its pricier counterparts.
Get it here: CeraVe Eye Repair Cream
Best anti-aging eye cream for sensitive skin: REN Clean Skincare Brightening Dark Circle Eye Cream
REN Clean Skincare Brightening Dark Circle Eye Cream 0.5 oz/ 15 mL
This petite dispenser of brightening magic from REN Clean Skincare isn't your average eye cream; it’s more like a sustainable superhero for your skin. No harsh chemicals means no worries for sensitive types, who will appreciate the formulation made with 95% natural-origin ingredients. A combination of elderberry flower and glycogen helps to brighten and illuminate the undereye area with every application, while hyaluronic acid smooths and hydrates the skin.
Specifications:
- Active ingredients: Elderberry flower, glycogen and hyaluronic acid.
- Texture: Cream.
- Size: 0.5 ounce.
- Cruelty-free: Yes.
- When to use: Morning and night.
- Price on publish: $51.
What we like:
- Ideal for sensitive skin.
- No parabens, sulfates or synthetic fragrances.
- Vegan and gluten-free.
- Immediate and long-lasting brightening results.
What we don’t like:
- Some might find the texture on the heavier side.
The AP Buyline takeaway:
A gentle and eco-friendly solution for brighter, smoother, less puffy-looking eyes.
Get it here: REN Clean Skincare Brightening Dark Circle Eye Cream
Best anti-aging eye cream with retinol: Murad Retinol Youth Renewal Eye Serum
Murad Retinol Youth Renewal Eye Serum
If you’ve ever dreamed of stumbling upon a time machine for your eyes, you should have a great retinol eye cream in your skincare arsenal. This option from Murad stands out as one of the best retinol creams thanks to its Retinol Tri-Active Technology, which includes a fast-acting retinoid, a time-release retinol and a retinol booster (talk about bang for your buck). It’s formulated for all skin types to reduce the appearance of crow’s feet, dark circles and dullness.
Specifications:
- Active ingredients: Retinol Tri-Active Technology, cotton wool grass extract and marine kelp complex.
- Texture: Lightweight serum.
- Size: 0.5 ounce.
- Cruelty-free: Yes.
- When to use: Night.
- Price on publish: $89.
What we like:
- Potent retinol formulation speeds up cell turnover for younger-looking skin.
- Provides 24 hours of hydration.
- Brightens and firms the skin around the eyes.
- Lightweight and fast absorbing.
What we don’t like:
- Even though it’s formulated to be gentle enough for sensitive skin, some people can’t tolerate retinol around the eyes.
The AP Buyline takeaway:
A gentle yet effective retinol treatment that revitalizes the eye area for a smoother, more youthful appearance.
Get it here: Murad Retinol Youth Renewal Eye Serum
How we selected the best anti-aging eye creams
As a beauty editor with two decades of industry experience and a special interest in skincare, finding the best anti-aging eye creams is an ongoing project near and dear to my heart. I researched — and have personally used — many options from tried-and-tested skincare brands, drawing upon my expertise and insights to identify top-performing products. I also delved into customer reviews to gain valuable feedback and ensure the selections met real-world expectations. From drugstore staples to luxury skincare brands, each eye cream included in this guide has undergone thorough scrutiny to determine its quality and efficacy.
Frequently asked questions (FAQs)
What does an anti-aging eye cream do?
An anti-aging eye cream is an indispensable skincare product for your delicate eye area, targeting the visible signs of aging. Formulated with anti-aging ingredients like retinol, peptides and hyaluronic acid — among many others — these creams help reduce the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, dark circles, puffiness and loss of elasticity. Consistent use of a good eye cream (and perhaps one of the best LED face masks, too) can result in brighter, smoother, younger-looking skin around the eyes.
Which is the best anti-aging eye cream for the 40s and 50s?
Navigating the skincare aisles in your 40s and 50s as your skin matures and changes can feel daunting. It’s important to identify your specific anti-aging concerns and look for products designed to address them head-on, whether you’re seeking brightening effects or a reduction in wrinkles and fine lines. Opt for eye creams formulated with retinol, which will help stimulate skin cell turnover, fight wrinkles and offer the most bang for your eye cream buck. Dry skin is often a concern as we age, so look for hydrating ingredients like hyaluronic acid and nourishing antioxidants that will help combat dryness and protect against environmental stressors. And don’t forget to make sleep a priority!
What’s the best way to apply eye creams for wrinkles?
When it comes to applying eye cream, a gentle touch and the right technique can make all the difference. Start by dispensing a tiny amount of product onto your ring finger, which will exert the least pressure on the delicate skin around your eyes. Remember, less is more. Using a tapping motion, carefully dot the cream onto the skin around the eye area, avoiding direct contact with the eyes. Pat gently until the cream disappears into the skin. Allow the product to absorb fully before applying any additional skincare or makeup.
AP Buyline’s content is created independently of The Associated Press newsroom. Our evaluations and opinions are not influenced by our advertising relationships, but we might earn commissions from our partners’ links in this content. Learn more about our policies and terms here.