Dark circles making you look more exhausted than you feel? Whether it’s due to late nights, screen time, aging, or just plain genetics, under-eye darkness is one of the most common skincare concerns. The right eye cream can hydrate, depuff, and brighten that delicate area—giving you a refreshed, well-rested look (even when you’re not).
We’ve curated a list of the top 10 eye creams that actually work—tested and trusted for tackling dark circles, puffiness, and dullness.
1. CeraVe Eye Repair Cream
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Best for: Sensitive or dry under-eyes
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Hero Ingredients: Hyaluronic acid, niacinamide, ceramides
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Why it stands out: Gentle and dermatologist-recommended, this hydrating formula strengthens the skin barrier and gradually reduces dark circles.
2. Kiehl’s Creamy Eye Treatment with Avocado
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Best for: Deep nourishment
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Hero Ingredients: Avocado oil, beta-carotene, shea butter
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Why it stands out: Its ultra-rich texture delivers long-lasting moisture, which helps minimize the look of fine lines and under-eye darkness.
3. OLEHENRIKSEN Banana Bright+ Eye Crème
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Best for: Brightening and priming under makeup
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Hero Ingredients: Vitamin C, banana powder-inspired pigments, caffeine
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Why it stands out: Boosts radiance instantly while working over time to reduce signs of fatigue.
4. The Inkey List Caffeine Eye Cream
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Best for: Budget-friendly puffiness solution
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Hero Ingredients: Caffeine, peptides
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Why it stands out: Lightweight and effective, it’s great for tightening tired under-eyes and reducing bags.
5. La Roche-Posay Pigmentclar Eyes
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Best for: Blue or purple-toned dark circles
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Hero Ingredients: Caffeine, niacinamide, phe-resorcinol
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Why it stands out: Targets stubborn pigmentation while depuffing, with a metal tip applicator that cools instantly.
6. Drunk Elephant C-Tango Multivitamin Eye Cream
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Best for: Anti-aging + brightening
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Hero Ingredients: Five forms of vitamin C, peptides, cucumber extract
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Why it stands out: Delivers a nutrient-rich punch that firms, brightens, and smooths fine lines.
7. Neutrogena Rapid Dark Circle Repair Eye Cream
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Best for: Quick visible results
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Hero Ingredients: Accelerated brightening complex
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Why it stands out: Light-diffusing technology helps fade dark circles in just a few days.
8. Origins GinZing Refreshing Eye Cream
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Best for: Instant glow
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Hero Ingredients: Caffeine, ginseng, brightening pigments
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Why it stands out: Revives dull under-eyes with a cooling, luminous finish.
9. Sunday Riley Auto Correct Brightening Eye Cream
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Best for: Puffiness and tired-looking eyes
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Hero Ingredients: Caffeine, lutein, horse chestnut extract
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Why it stands out: Instantly lifts and illuminates the eye area, while long-term use helps fade shadows and firm skin.
10. TULA Glow & Get It Cooling & Brightening Eye Balm
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Best for: On-the-go touch-ups
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Hero Ingredients: Probiotics, caffeine, aloe, blueberry
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Why it stands out: Comes in a swipeable balm stick that cools, hydrates, and subtly brightens with a dewy finish.
How to Pick the Right Eye Cream for You
Consider the following when choosing:
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Skin type – Is your skin dry, oily, or sensitive?
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Main concern – Is it more about dark circles, puffiness, or fine lines?
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Lifestyle – Do you need something lightweight for daytime or deeply nourishing for overnight repair?
Application Tip:
Use your ring finger to gently tap in eye cream—never rub. Less pressure = less damage to the delicate skin around your eyes.
Final Thoughts
While eye creams won’t erase dark circles overnight, consistent use of the right product can make a big difference. From powerful drugstore staples to luxurious formulas, these top-rated eye creams can help you say goodbye to tired eyes and hello to a brighter, fresher you.
