There are those who argue that using a separate product for the eye area is unnecessary. According to them, skin is skin, and you can simply use your moisturiser, extending it from your hairline to your breastbone – just make sure to apply sunscreen on top.

But, in my opinion, everyone needs a dedicated eye cream – especially after the age of 30. Due to its thinness, effectively providing the right ingredients to hydrate, nourish, and rejuvenate the delicate skin around the eyes is a daunting task that requires careful consideration. It is crucial to strike the right balance without burdening or overwhelming the area.

So, what should you look for in an eye cream, and which products really give results? Read on for everything you need to know…

Why do you NEED a separate eye cream?

The delicate skin around the eyes is thinner and more prone to dryness, fine lines, and puffiness. Facial moisturisers are often too heavy for this area, but it also shouldn’t be neglected altogether. Eye creams are specifically formulated to address common concerns and provide targeted care for this sensitive area. The right eye creams contain active ingredients that target issues such as dark circles, crow’s feet lines, and under-eye bags head-on. Additionally, eye creams offer moisturisation, hydration, and protection, and if correctly formulated, they protect against oxidative stress caused by environmental factors.  They support the delicate barrier (the skin around the eyes is the thinnest on the body), and they can also help to build collagen to keep skin thick and crease-resistant.

Do you need to use an eye cream right now?

While eye creams can offer specific benefits, whether you need to include one in your skincare regime ultimately depends on your individual needs and preferences. Consider the following factors when deciding:

  • Age: As we age, the skin around our eyes becomes thinner and more susceptible to visible signs of aging. If you’re in your late 20s or older and starting to notice fine lines, dark circles, or puffiness, incorporating an eye cream can be beneficial.
  • You have specific concerns to address: If you struggle with under-eye bags, puffiness, or discoloration, an eye cream formulated to address these issues may provide the targeted care you’re seeking.
  • Budget and Preference: Eye creams can vary in price, and if you’re on a tight budget, you may opt to invest in other essential skincare products for the time being. Additionally, some individuals find that their regular moisturiser or serums provide enough hydration and care for their eye area.

The best eye creams to try

I have tried many eye creams over the years, and there are only a few that can really target and treat concerns and deliver effective results. They may be an investment, but they are certainly worth it.

SkinBetter Science EyeMax AlphaRet Overnight Cream

The SkinBetter Science EyeMax AlphaRet Overnight Cream contains a patented combination of a retinoid and an alpha hydroxy acid (AHA), in an optimized formulation to reduce the appearance of lines and wrinkles around the delicate eye area.

Revision DEJ Eye Cream

This innovative eye cream fades the appearance of crow’s feet lines, crepiness and wrinkles by focusing on the skin’s dermal-epidermal junction (DEJ). The DEJ is important to your skin’s structure, allowing this cream to provide noticeable results, improving firmness and smoothness all around the eyes.

SkinBetter Science Interfuse Eye Cream

This eye cream is probably the most popular in the clinic, thanks to a special peptide that mimics the effects of anti-wrinkle injections. It’s also loaded with hydrators, vitamin C, and caffeine to reduce puffiness. It also has a proprietary yeast extract which reduces the appearance of dark circles.

Revision Revox Line Relaxer

Commonly referred to as ‘Botox in a bottle,’ Revox Line Relaxer is clinically proven to reduce the appearance of lines and wrinkles. This super-advanced and innovative peptide-rich facial serum will help transform your skin and reduce expression lines. Formulated with Hyaluronic Acid, Inulin and Arnica Montana Flower Extract, Revox visibly reduces the appearance of horizontal and vertical lines and wrinkles, including under-eye lines and boosts your skin’s hydration levels for an overall youthful, plump and radiant appearance.