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The skin around the eyes is delicate, and that’s in part due to how thin it is. In fact, the eyelid skin is the thinnest skin on the face. And for people that already have naturally sensitive skin, finding something that works for the area around the eyes can be really daunting. Fortunately, much like moisturizers, cleansers, and all other types of skincare products, there are definitely some winners when it comes to gentle eye creams on the market. We got some expert insights, tried some products out for ourselves, scoured the internet and read reviews to help you find gentle eye care. In the end, we narrowed our picks down to our 14 favorite eye creams!
What to Look For in an Eye Cream – and What to Avoid
Now, before we begin telling you our picks, there are a few key details that are worth being aware of. For starters, people with sensitive skin should be mindful to avoid certain ingredients, namely fragrances and alcohol. Even some beneficial ingredients that are hot right now, like AHAs, can be a bit harsh on sensitive skin, so be sure to spot test these if you want to give them a go.
As Dr. Richard Bottiglione, a board-certified dermatologist and founder of Dermatologist’s Choice Skincare tells us, creams for the eye skin can be strong or mild, though he notes that strong recipes will be more potent and effective when it comes to getting rid of things like wrinkles. However, it’s worth being mindful that those with sensitive skin should practice caution with these stronger ingredients. For example, retinol, which is a form of vitamin A, can increase collagen production and assist with diminishing the appearance of wrinkles. However, it also has a high risk of causing irritation and dryness, which can be especially problematic for easily aggravated complexions.
If you’re desperate to try a retinol eye cream, we recommend choosing a low-concentration formula that also contains soothing and moisturizing ingredients to help counteract negative side effects. If you want an alternative, bakuchiol is a botanical ingredient that is known to be gentler than retinoids. While it doesn’t have as much research backing its efficacy as retinoids, it still does seem to stimulate collagen receptors in the skin.
Moisturizing the thin skin around the eyes is a good idea, with Dr. Bottiglione recommending ingredients like niacinamide and ceramides. “I would recommend starting with a moisturizer if your skin is just dry around your eyes,” he tells us, adding that from there you can incorporate other ingredients like active glycolic.
We also recommend looking for formulas with vitamin C or peptides. These ingredients can help promote more youthful eyes. And, we suggest reaching for antioxidant-rich formulas. Antioxidants protect the skin from the harmful effects of free radicals, which can cause skin damage and premature signs of aging. Antioxidant-packed ingredients include vitamin E and green tea extract. Anyone prone to dark circles can benefit from eye creams infused with ingredients like caffeine and ginseng, which can help brighten and depuff for more energized eyes.
The Best Eye Creams for Sensitive Skin
Ready to take your skincare routine to the next level? Here are some of our favorite eye creams to suit even the most sensitive skin. No matter your specific concerns or budget, you’ll find at least one option that works for you!
Weleda Renewing Eye Cream – Wild Rose
- Description
This renewing formula is as gentle as it sounds . . . maybe even gentler! Wild rose hydrates the skin around the eyes, softening the appearance of lines and brightening dark circles.
Musk rose seed oil is rich in fatty acids, reducing puffiness, too!
Dr. Brandt No More Baggage
- Description
Say goodbye to those stubborn under-eye bags! This fragrance-free formula combines algae and plant extracts with tightening caffeine and ceramides for a bright, youthful glow.
Grab it in regular or a travel size!
Drunk Elephant C-Tango Multivitamin Eye Cream
- Description
Let the results speak for themselves! 96% of study participants agreed their under-eye skin felt more hydrated while 81% said their eye areas felt firmer.
A brightening combination of vitamin C, cucumber extract and ceramides will give you a wide-awake appearance . . . even if you’re not!
Biossance Squalane + Marine Algae Firming & Lifting Eye Cream
- Description
Tightening and smoothing, this squalene and marine algae cream gives your skin a lift and a half. Plus, the whipped texture makes it melt into your skin, serving as an ideal base for makeup!
Strong anti-aging properties are just a bonus.
EltaMD Renew Eye Gel
- Description
This premium pick is worth every dollar! Suitable for all skin types, the gel diminishes the appearance of lines and dark circles.
With niacinamide’s plumping properties, you’ll look well-rested, younger and excited to be alive!
Filorga Time-Filler Eyes 5XP
- Description
Why stop at the under eyes? Orchid stem cells lift sagging eyelids while peptides, silk tree extract and hyaluronic acid smooth crow's feet and wrinkles.
The silky cream also contains tripeptides that renew your entire eye area.
Blu Atlas Eye Stick
- Description
If an accidental mirror peek at work makes you freak, don’t worry — this eye stick fits in your purse and will give you a quick refresh anytime, anywhere. It’s convenient for when you’re traveling, at the gym, headed to a meeting or en route to the kids’ soccer game.
Bioelements Sleepwear for Eyes
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Put on your pajamas, drink a cup of tea and apply this “sleepwear” for your eyes, an anti-aging formula that reduces the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, puffiness and dark spots. You’ll wake up bright-eyed and bushy-tailed!
First Aid Beauty Hydrating Eye Cream With Hyaluronic Acid
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Sometimes it’s an emergency and you need a serious eye overhaul. This formula has been tested by dermatologists and is clinically proven to keep your under-eye area moisturized, smooth and wrinkle-free for 24 hours!
SkinCeuticals A.G.E. Eye Complex
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If you’re serious about your anti-aging skincare regimen, this complex is essential! Made without alcohols, dyes or fragrances, this luxury cream features blueberry extract, optical diffusers and a Proxylane solution that restores fullness.
Alpyn Beauty Line-Filling Eye Cream With Bakuchiol and Caffeine
- Description
Caffeine isn’t just for your a.m. cup of joe! According to the brand, 100% of consumers in a consumer-testing panel noted an improvement in the smoothness and texture around their eyes while 92% noted reduced puffiness and fine lines.
Those are some pretty promising stats!
Herbivore Moon Dew 1% Bakuchiol + Peptides Retinol Alternative Eye Cream
- Description
If your skin can’t tolerate retinol, it’s about time you checked out this soothing retinol alternative that contains the powerhouse ingredient bakuchiol. 1% bakuchiol and a slew of plant peptides are this formula’s secret to reducing lines, smoothing the skin, firming and tightening the skin.
CeraVe Eye Repair Cream
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Don’t take it from Us . . . take it from the nearly 42,000 reviewers who give this repair cream five stars! The ophthalmologist-tested cream checks all of our boxes, containing a marine botanical complex, hyaluronic acid, ceramides and niacinamide while skipping oil and damaging fillers.
It restores the skin barrier, too!
Kiehl’s Creamy Eye Treatment with Avocado
- Description
Avocado . . . for your skin? Believe it or not, the healthy fats in avocado oil energize and invigorate tired eyes.
This creamy treatment contains caffeine and other natural ingredients that provide an instant hydration boost. Your under-eye area will look supple and smooth!
