The skin around your eyes is by far the thinnest than the rest of the skin on your face and is more prone to dryness, thanks to no oil glands and little collagen in this area, making it highly vulnerable to dryness. They are the most delicate and usually the first to show signs of aging, such as fine lines and wrinkles. So if you want to look fresh and not like one who is surviving on two hours of sleep, it’s wise to invest in creams that help you to take care of your eyes.
While lots of credit goes to seasonal changes for drying and swollen eyes, many other factors play a role. Lack of sleep, poor dietary habits, stress, and limited water intake can result in dehydration. And since the undereye area is very vulnerable, it means giving a free pass to itchy, puffy, and tired eyes. Fret not. After hours of research, we’re able to find some products for you that offer a moisture boost. Scroll below to shop the top hydrating eye creams that are truly a game-changer.
Comparing Most Functional Hydrating Eye-cream
Neutrogena Hydro Boost Eye Cream — Best Overall
Neutrogena’s hydro boost line has been a hit ever since it came out, and this eye cream is no exception. The lightweight, non-greasy formula sinks into the skin pretty fast and doesn’t leave any greasiness behind. The hyaluronic acid in it nourishes and moisturizes the under-eye area for smooth, soft skin. Its moisturizing power is remarkable as it keeps your eyes hydrated all day long.
What’s more impressive is that this pick is non-comedogenic and free of parabens and dyes. Just squeeze a pea-sized amount in your hands and apply it in the morning and at night. Add this powerful hydrating cream to your beauty routine and say hello to fresh, wide-awake eyes. The fact that it’s suitable for all skin types makes it the best overall product on our list.
Pros
- Fragrance-free
- It won’t clog pores
- Ophthalmologist-tested
Cons
- Might sting a little upon application
Kiehl’s Creamy Eye Treatment —- Best Splurge
Kiehl’s Creamy Eye Treatment with Avocado has a fan following, and it’s not surprising why. It houses powerful ingredients like shea butter, avocado oil, and cocoa butter that insanely moisturize and soften your under-eye area. Plus, the antioxidant beta carotene in it helps to brighten any dullness.
Plus, it also depuffs and protects your eyes from digital fatigue by acting as a shield against blue light. It’s a thick texture but absorbs quickly into the skin within a few minutes, making the delicate under-eye area soft and supple. Only the tiniest amount of this holy-grail pick is needed to improve the texture of your under-eye area and restore it to its former glory. Moreover, it’s ophthalmologist and dermatologist-tested, making it safe for all skin types.
Pros
- Paraben-free
- Fragrance-free
- Provides all-day hydration
Cons
- Takes a little bit of effort to spread
Olay Deep Hydrating Eye Gel Cream —- Best Nourishing
Olay Deep Hydrating Eye Gel Cream uses the power of hyaluronic acid to moisturize, while peptides and provitamin B5 help with cell turnover and regeneration. The witch hazel and cucumber extract work to soothe, smooth, and plump the skin. The fast-acting formula offers a cooling effect that instantly refreshes tired eyes.
Be it dryness, fine lines, or puffiness, slather this eye cream for an instant moisture boost. It’s ultra-nourishing and keeps the skin of your under-eye area hydrated for up to 24 hours. In addition, it also goes well under makeup, as it doesn’t pill or clump up, thus acting as a great base.
Pros
- Effective formula
- Lightweight
- Wears well under makeup
Cons
- Results take time
Belif Moisturizing Eye Bomb —- Great Value
This Belif Moisturizing Eye Bomb is worth all the hype it gets, thanks to its powerful ingredients that take the stage. It provides hydration for up to 26 hours and smooths fine lines and wrinkles like a pro. This gel-like cream is the perfect addition to your routine and is like a shot of moisture to parched, thirsty, dehydrated eyes.
The formula has tiger grass, which helps to soothe irritated skin, whereas oat kernel extract, calendula extract, and comfrey leaf act as inflammation-fighting agents that make those stubborn spots disappear. On the other hand, squalene and glycerin calm down the stressed skin, giving you a bright-eyed look. Just take a small amount on your ring finger and pat it on your under-eye area till it fully sinks in. You can also use it under your makeup, as it is a fantastic base for a crease-free look.
Pros
- It boosts elasticity
- Provides a cooling sensation
- A perfect antidote for puffy eyes
Cons
- The smell might be overpowering for some
Fresh Rose Hydrating Eye Gel Cream — Best Soothing
Do you want an eye cream that not only hydrates and soothes but also relaxes tired eyes? If yes, look no more than Fresh Rose Hydrating Eye Gel Cream. Formulated with bambara groundnut and hyaluronic acid that hydrates, it’s a promising pick that quenches the thirst of tired eyes. In addition, cucumber extract helps to calm and soothe the skin.
This heavenly pick goes above and beyond in hydrating your under-eye area and improving its appearance giving it a fresh feel. It’s makeup friendly and refreshes your skin, so grab it before you miss it.
Pros
- Aromatic smell
- Easy to glide
- Ideal for daily use
Cons
- The scent might be strong for people with sensitive skin
Buying Guide: Hydrating Eye-creams
Eye creams are a must. We can all swear that we have spent hundreds, if not thousands, of dollars on moisturizers, but who has really invested this much in eye creams as well? The under-eye skin is the most fragile; thus, it requires intensive care to ensure that it looks fresh and clean. Here are some things you should consider while taking care of your eyes. Keep reading on.
Things to Look for
Ahead are two things you should keep in mind.
Ingredients
For dryness, hyaluronic acid is the solution. But it’s not the only one that hydrates, as many other powerful ingredients help to nourish your eyes. While buying an eye cream, keep an eye out for antioxidants, squalene, glycerin ceramides, and peptides. They also work to depuff and smooth the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles and calms irritated, itchy under-eye skin.
Formula
Hydrating gel creams come in two types: gel-like and cream-based. Gel-like have a thin-water-like texture that dissolves into the skin immediately, while creams have a thicker consistency and are easier to glide but take some time to spread. So if you have oily skin, choosing a gel-like texture is best, but creams work great if you have dry skin.
Tips to Apply Eye Cream
Clean your hands
Before applying any product, be it skincare or makeup, make sure that your hands are thoroughly washed and clean. Eye creams are usually applied through your fingers, so it’s best to clean them so that you don’t spread any germs unknowingly.
Wash your face
Just like cleaning your hands is important, washing your face is also necessary to remove any and every chance of gunk. Doing this will ensure that your eyes are ready for the application and that no makeup, oil, or dirt can interact with them. You can use your regular face wash or makeup remover to cleanse your face. Once you’re done, pat it dry gently with a soft towel.
Use appropriate amount
Always take the amount that is required. Overdoing it will not benefit, as the trick is to make sure that the cream is properly absorbed into the skin to show its effects.
Using more than required can also irritate; excess creams can get into your eyes, leading to itchiness and redness. You only need a pea-sized amount for each eye. Massage it gently till it fully absorbs.
Follow up with a moisturizer
While eye creams hydrate, they still need a moisturizer to lock in the content. Use one that caters to your needs and apply it thoroughly after the eye cream.
Don’t forget to use your SPF
If you’re stepping out, slather up your sunscreen for extra protection.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is eye cream really necessary?
Yes. Just like your face needs moisturizer, our eyes need attention too. An excellent hydrating cream in your cosmetic bag would ensure that your under-eye area is properly lubricated.
How often should I apply my eye cream?
Usually, it is recommended to use eye cream twice a day.