Puffy Eyes? Dark Circles? Our Beauty Editor Recommends the New Eye Products For You

Getty / Viorel Kurnosov

As a beauty editor there are two questions I frequently get asked: “What’s the best mascara?” and “Which eye cream do you recommend?” Not only does this prove we are all obsessed with our eyes, but considering there are literally hundreds of options in both categories, it seems finding the ‘one’ can feel like a bit of a needle in a haystack. And in essence, I am not surprised. Whereas I could list at least 10 decent mascaras I would happily give the nod of approval, products specifically catered to treat the eye area is a whole different kettle of fish. The reason for this is because everyone has different eye needs, whether you’re looking to treat dark circles, crows feet, sagging lids or puffy eyes there is a different ingredient for you.

Over the last decade or so I have tried hundreds of eye products, from eye creams to liquid tubes, roll ons to gadgets and I still struggle to find one I consider the holy grail. However, the new recent batch of products aimed to improve the under eye area have really stepped up.

Read on to find out why it’s important to use a separate eye product, the ingredients you need to look for to target each problem area and which ones I would consider to be pretty good.

Why Do You Need a Separate Eye Cream?

“Using a separate eye cream is often advocated for because the skin around the eyes is thinner and more delicate than the rest of the face,” explains skin expert, Justine Masters. “Eye creams are formulated with ingredients tailored to address specific concerns like puffiness, dark circles, and fine lines without causing irritation to the sensitive eye area,” she tells POPSUGAR UK.

Additionally, eye creams are designed to be lighter in texture. “Heavy creams can potentially migrate into the eyes and cause irritation,” explains Masters. “However, whether you need a separate eye cream depends on your individual skincare needs and preferences.”

What Ingredients Should You Look For in a Targeted Eye Product?

“When selecting an eye product, it’s crucial to focus on ingredients that cater to the delicate nature of the skin around the eyes,” says Dr Rachna Murthy, consultant ophthalmologist, aesthetic, oculoplastic and reconstructive surgeon at Face Restoration. “Look for hydrating components like hyaluronic acid and glycerin, which help to plump and moisturise, reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.”

Masters tends to look for products which target puffiness likes caffeine and vitamin C as well as retinals if you’re looking to combat fine lines and wrinkles. However she warns these should be introduced slowly as it can cause irritation.

Even with the risks, Dr Murthy agrees. “Peptides and retinoids can be beneficial, as both promote collagen production and improve skin firmness over time,” she explains. “By incorporating these treatments and ingredients into your skincare routine, you can effectively target and reduce signs of aging around the eyes, achieving a more youthful and refreshed appearance.”

The Best Way to Apply an Eye Product

Worried about when to apply your eye product? Masters has these simple steps. “Start with a clean face: Gently cleanse your face with a mild cleanser and pat dry with a clean towel, before dispense a pea-sized amount of eye cream onto your ring finger.” The ring finger typically applies the least amount of pressure, which is ideal for the delicate eye area, as you can tag and pull at the skin leaving it marked. “Dab, don’t rub: using your ring finger, lightly dab the eye cream along the orbital bone, starting from the inner corner of the eye and moving outward.”

She also warns that you should avoid applying the product too close to the lash line as this can be transferred into your eye and cause irritation. “Using a gentle tapping motion, continue to dab the eye cream until it is fully absorbed. Give the eye cream a few minutes to fully absorb into the skin before applying any other skincare products or makeup.”

Related:

The Best Eye Creams and Tools to Use Now

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