15 Best Eye Creams For Dark Circles, Tried And Tested By The Grazia Beauty Team

Beloved by beauty buffs the world over, Iraye's Swiss-made formulations are designed 'to transform skin in four weeks, delivering unique skin sculpting and radiance-boosting effects.' Those effects are down to the brand's unique position in being the first skincare line to activates the lymphatic system. Meaning it helps to shift and drain lymphatic fluids which contain toxin, which is usually done manually through managing, to reveal healthier, radiant skin.

Powdered by the brand's patent-pending LYMPHACTIVE™ Complex, the creams ability to encourage lymphatic activity in puffy, tired eyes leads to a drainage of excess water retention to reduce puffiness, boosting micro-circulation to encourage the skin to absorb antioxidant-rich brightening nutrients like caffeine and vitamin C, and removing toxins and inflammatory factors which slows the breakdown of collagen and elastin leading to tighter skin. Something which is further fortified by the inclusion of plant-based Bio Retinol which is a gentle means of promoting collagen and firmer skin. Our Beauty Director says it's absolutely worth the hype.

Verity Clark, acting beauty director, says: 'I used to roll my eyes when it came to eye creams, excuse the pun. I very much fell into the 'your moisturiser does the same thing' camp. This was until I tried Iraye Eye Revive Cream. It uses a special technology to boost the lymphatic system, which, when sluggish can contribute to fluid retention aka puffy eyes. Boy does this stuff help me out when I'm lacking sleep, it truly does take down tell-tale under-eye puffiness. Yes, it's eye-wateringly expensive, so I only use it on occasions that I truly need help in that department.'

This anti-ageing eye cream works wonders for those even with super sensitive skin. With slow-release retinol microcapsules, combined with nourishing hyaluronic acid, it treats and transforms your under eyes to reduce any unwanted fine lines, wrinkles and puffiness.

Swiss-formulated, you can rest assured the cream boasts the kind of luxury and innovation which has come to be associated with skincare coming out of the region which are said to be rooted in purity, nature, science and precision, as well as being toxin-free. That said, this vegan, clean beauty staple speaks for itself with a formula that helps to brighten, moisturise, firm and revive the eye area.

Sameeha Shaikh, beauty writer, says: 'Beauty Pie has built a reputation for delivery high-performing products minus the hefty price tag and this product is a case in point. It features 1% retinol microcapsules to slowly (and gently) release its line-smoothing effects, as well as well as antioxidant-rich bioflavonoid to brighten. I especially loved it's no-fuss approach and seamless application. A word of warning this is known to sell out, so think fast!'

Dr. PAWPAW has built up a cult status in the world of nourishing multi-purpose lip salves and now it's ready to take over the eye care scene with this handy treatment. It features the brand's hero ingredient PAPAYALURONIC™ (which is the super ingredient used across the well-loved range), which combines nourishing papaya extract with eight forms of hydrating hyaluronic acids, as well as texture-correcting retinol.

If you're worried about irritation, fret not, the inclusion of aloe vera cleverly soothes skin to reduce the risk of irritation around the delicate eye area. You'll be left with soothed and hydrated skin that is both brighter and less prone to dark circles.

Sameeha Shaikh, beauty writer, says: 'Dark circles can feel debilitating, but the burden feels lighter knowing there are products on the market that can genuinely remedy your woes. With an impressive formula that is built on nourishing and brightening, it's hard to think this eye cream is only £13 a pop. I used it AM and PM diligently and noticed my under eyes becoming just that bit brighter. If I can forgo the use of concealer, that's a win for me and with this the impossible seems within reach.'

The brand describes this as a 'tweakment-in-a-bottle for the ultimate bright-eyed look,' and it's not lying. It includes new and innovative ingredients the award-winning Matrixyl® Morphomics™ and Neodermyl® actives which work on a cellular level to firm the eye area and correct fine lines and minor creases with filler-like properties. There's also sodium ascorbyl phosphate in the mix, a potent vitamin C, rectify dullness and signs of fatigue, something which is strengthened by plant-derived active bakuchiol which provides retinol-like benefits sans irritation. Peptides & Omegas Firming Eye Cream

If that all sounds a bit scary, rest assured the rich, powerhouse packed formula is balanced with omega-rich oils like baobab, rosehip, argan and squalene, to deliver hydration with a silky smooth texture that leaves skin plump.

Sameeha Shaikh, beauty writer, says: 'Allies Of Skin has been quietly establishing its authority in the expert skincare circuit with products that deliver seriously transformative results, so it's safe to say I had high hopes for this product. Thankfully, it massively delivers. Loaded with the right dosage of actives to help skin look more revived, smooth and radiant, the rich yet quick absorbing cream instantly worked to give me a more lifted and wide-awake look. Yes please!'

Meet perhaps the most impressive of eye treatments. Inspired by the brand's now iconic H.C.F serum, it treats the under eye area to protect against premature signs of ageing with a potent blend of powerful actives, including hyaluronic acid, vitamin C+niacinamide, and vitamin F.

Each potent active is dispensed at the optimal dosage via a clever single shot delivery system which means the skin benefits from a concentrated and precise combination of ingredients, which collectively work to tackle crows feet, eye bags and a loss of elasticity.

**Sameeha Shaikh, beauty writer, says, '**Now this is what you call an eye treatment. One look at the bottle will reveal this product isn't build like others. It delivers hyaluronic acid, vitamin C*+niacinamide, and vitamin F through a single triple dose mechanism. I found one pump to be (very) generous enough for both eye areas and the silky gel-serum formula sunk in immediately to plump and firm up skin. From formula to application, this is a clever piece of skincare engineering'

Eye creams with retinol are super effective at targeting fine lines, dullness and puffiness. And we think the Medik8 Crystal Retinal Eye 6 is the best retinol eye cream in the market.

It's made with retinal (a form of vitamin A and the gold-standard of skincare ingredients), which is a component clinically proven to improve cell turnover and smooth skin texture with consistent use.

But to counterbalance the impact of the vitamin A - as ingredients go, it’s amongst the most potent and can initially cause skin to become sensitive - on a delicate eye area, Medik8 Crystal Retinal Eye 6 is also packed with a hefty hit of ceramides – a type of fat that works to smooth, soothe and protect skin.

That means it's a potent combination that targets dark circles and fine lines, whilst protecting the skin. And, even better, it feels lightweight, so you can apply concealer straight away, rather than having to wait for the serum to sink in.

Rachael Martin, beauty editor, says: 'While I wouldn't say it was a miracle worker (my dark under-eyes are likely genetic, so won't ever truly budge), I would say that I've seen a decided improvement in the tone and texture of my delicate eye area with consistent daily use over just three weeks.' Check out her full review here.

Made with a perfectly nourishing blend of essential fatty acids, vitamins B+E, shea butter, caffeine and of course the hero ingredient avocado oil, it is no wonder this is Kiehl's number one selling eye treatment thanks to its extremely soothing, hydrating formulation. It's creamy, rich, and a total treat for those who love luxurious textures.

The clever combination of products means it provides that all-important hydration Dr Hawkes speaks of which the thin, delicate eye area will always benefit from. Plus, with the addition of antioxidants like caffeine, the quenching formula also reinvigorates the look of dull, tired eyes.

Sameeha Shaikh, beauty writer, says: 'In all honesty, I'm not one for eye creams. Preferring a streamlined approach to skincare, I tend to cut out the more luxurious steps that, to me, appear to be an added (but lovely) extra, but I make an exception for this. Kiehl’s Creamy Eye Treatment with Avocado has long been the only eye cream I reach for and I'm not alone. With over 1m views on TikTok and counting, this well-loved eye cream is loaded with shea butter, antioxidant-rich beta-carotene and hero ingredient avocado oil, which collectively work to nourish, soothe and de-puff. Oh and it's the ultimate pre-make-up prep, too.'

Facetheory prides itself on developing vegan skincare products that are not only nourishing but gentle and soothing enough for even the most sensitive skin types. With a blend of peptides, hexylresorcinol (an antioxidant that fades discolouration), and vitamin C, this lightweight eye cream targets signs of ageing, pigmentation and uneven skintones, ergo if you suffer with dark circles, this may be the remedy.

Fluid and hydrating, it leaves an almost matified film on the skin which feels both protective and soothing. It definitely has a botanical smell to it, which is worth considering depending on the kind of experience you like from your skincare.

Sameeha Shaikh, beauty writer, says: 'I have acne and inflammation-prone, sensitive skin, which thrives under more gentle formulations. With that in mind, this was perhaps my most liked eye treatment during our testing phase, as it provided a relief from the potencies of other creams. I especially loved how it soothed and hydrated effectively all while brightening the look of my eye contour - which proves even gentle ingredients have the power to transform.'

With a bucket load of vitamin C, this eye cream will brighten the skin and even tone and firm over time. The orange tint perks up the skin instantly, too, for subtle colour correction. The texture is lightweight and gel-like and sits nicely under make-up.

Technically speaking, the cream boasts a triple vitamin C complex with gold, which not only brightens but improves the delivery system of the vitamin. It also features universally-flattering light-reflecting mineral pigments, inspired by banana powder (a staple for MUAs) to instantly revive eyes. With make-up in mind, it also proves to be crease-proof and a great aid to concealer and foundation.

Renee Washington, digital fashion and beauty assistant, says: 'This little tub is my secret to hydrated and wide awake eyes. Supercharged with vitamin C, with regular use it helps to speed up cell renewal and strengthen and boost elasticity around my eyes. If you’ve been missing out on sleep make a play for this.'

From No7 to Derm Solutions, Boots know how to whip up affordable beauty buys, but its latest offering may just be the most impressive yet. The new Boots DermaCare Ceramides range, an edit of 7 products focused on delivering intense hydration and restoring the skin’s natural moisture barrier starts at an unbelievable £6, the cheapest product being this eye balm.

With a triple ceramide complex to restore moisture levels and support the skin barrier; probiotics to protect the skin's microbiome and increase elasticity; and antioxidant-rich chamomile to calm, soothe and brighten, this balm wards off signs of fatigue, skin ageing, dark circles, and puffiness 

Beauty Editor Rachael says: 'This eye balm is a joy to use. The texture is rich and luxurious without feeling tacky or uncomfortable. I've been applying it around the contour of my eyes using my ring finger - gentle tapping motions work best here where the delicate skin is concerned. It contains probiotics and chamomile to soothe and brighten. It's particularly great for taking down morning puffiness.'

A cult classic before it even launched. The brand claims their Rich Eye Cream uses their own proprietary technology as well as ingredients including Wild Gentian Root Extract to ‘deeply nourish, lift, and firm the eye contour while reducing fine lines and wrinkles.’ A quick scan of their ingredients list also confirms that there’s no shortage of the sort of active ingredients that you’d expect in a potent eye cream - including peptides and Hyaluronic acid.

Rebecca Holman, digital director at Grazia, says: 'On first testing, the cream certainly seems to do what it says on the tin. My eyes are puffy, with dark circles and dry, sensitive skin when I first try the cream. It’s lusciously rich on application, and the steel applicator is incredibly soothing. The cream has an illuminating effect which instantly makes me look less tired. It’s also pleasingly thick and nourishing - my skin is quite dry and can sometimes become sore and cracked and I find that most eye creams don’t even touch the sides, but this felt as luxurious as you’d expect.'

111SKIN’s newest eye treatment the Eye Lift Gel NAC Y²™ is cleverly designed to help mimic the effects of an eye lift without having to go under the knife – or pay the price for actual surgery. Just like a surgical eye lift, the formula reduces the appearance of puffiness and fine lines, minimises the appearance of dark circles and lifts the eye area in just two weeks. It also delivers advanced repair to skin that is most susceptible to visible signs of aging.

Marina Avraam, deputy commerce editor at Grazia, says: 'While the Eye Lift Gel sounds like magic, we assure you it’s all rooted in hard science. The NAC Y²™ complex pioneered by Dr. Alexandrides is the secret behind 111SKIN’s seemingly miracle formulae, thanks to its reparative abilities. The NAC Y²™ complex found in the eye gel helps promote the production of glutathione (an antioxidant hero) and improve elasticity for firmer, smoother skin. The addition of Argireline, an advanced hexapeptide, helps to lift and sculpt the under-eye area, minimising the appearance of fine lines. For the perfect cherry on top, the Caffeine Complex helps brighten and awaken tired eyes. The result? An expression-freezing effect, which lifts and locks your skin in place. Music to our ears – and wrinkles.'

Caffeine has long been used to tackle tired eyes. It’s vasoconstrictive, which means it can narrow blood vessels, and a diuretic, relieving water retention, making it the perfect under-eye treatment to diminish dark circles and reduce puffiness. With caffeine as its hero ingredient, this eye treatment makes light work of tired eyes with a quick-working serum solution.

Sameeha Shaikh, beauty writer, says: 'To tackle dark circles and puffiness, try this lightweight solution from The Ordinary. Caffeine and EGCG (an extract from green tea) work together to brighten the delicate eye area while taking down puffiness. Unlike other eye care we tested in this edit, this solution comes equipped with a pipette for max control and a nice point of difference in application.'

If you're on the hunt for a lightweight eye cream that still manages to coat the skin in plenty of nourishment, look to this. It boasts hyaluronic acid and peptides for next-level hydration, while promising to diminish the look of dark circles and leaves the skin looking refreshed. Thanks to it's featherweight formula it absorbs quick, meaning less time spent waiting around before moving onto the next stage in your routine. Speaking of, it works great under make-up too.

Sameeha Shaikh, beauty writer, says 'I've been using this pocket-friendly option for a few weeks now and am pleasantly surprised by how good it is. It's jam packed with hydrating ingredients like hyaluronic acid and peptides, making it a hard-working nourisher which plumps, smooths and gets to work on dark circles. Non-greasy and quick-absorbing, it leaves skin feeling quenched and sits beautifully under make-up. If you love that refreshed feeling, look no further.'

Designed to tackle the effects of stress, screen time, lack of sleep and pollution on the delicate eye area, this best-selling eye serum is proven to visibly brighten dark circles and replump eye lines for more youthful looking eyes. It's also dermatologist-approved, effective on all skin tones and fragrance free. It's a great partner under make-up.

Sameeha Shaikh, beauty writer, says: 'The turn of the season from warm to cool is the perfect time to try this viral, hydrating eye serum which is designed to flood the skin full of moisture and help to instantly depuff, with the help of a high percentage of micro and macro hyaluronic acid (2.5% to be exact), caffeine and niacinimide. Plus, there's a handy steel triple roller applicator which cools and soothes.'