"Do I really need an eye cream?" is a the skin-care question we've heard one too many times in our group chats or on pre-pandemic trips to Sephora with friends. While some may argue that eye creams are useless, experts say that's simply a lie.

According to board-certified dermatologist Ryan Turner, MD, of Turner Dermatology in New York City, the under-eye area is extremely delicate compared to the rest of your face, which means it requires special care. "The skin is thin and responsive to fluid shifts in the face," Dr. Turner explains. "The fragile capillaries in the skin also contribute to darkness under the eye."

Because of the sensitive nature of the eye area, specific ingredients and doses are recommended to treat it. "Dedicated ingredients such as vitamin K oxide, caffeine, potent antioxidants, hyaluronic acid, and retinoids are important to address concerns in that area," Dr. Turner says. That's why finding a good eye cream is necessary to keep the skin there healthy and radiant.

Recommended Products

Isdin Isdinceutics K-Ox Eyes
When it comes to effectiveness, Dr. Turner says this formula ticks all of the boxes. "This is one of my recent favorites that helps target dark circles and puffiness while hydrating the skin," he says. "It contains the uncommonly-used vitamin K oxide, which focuses on the dark circles and has hyaluronic acid for hydration. It's also packed with a special triple peptide combination, called Eyeliss, that may work to help lymphatic circulation and reduce leaky blood vessels." Bonus: The ceramic tip-applicator cools the skin on contact, which helps to soothe puffiness.

The Ordinary Caffeine Solution 5% + EGCG
For shoppers on a budget, Dr. Turner recommends this caffeine-packed formula by The Ordinary. "This is a great cost-saving yet effective option that can help improve dark circles, hydrate the skin and reduce puffiness," he says. "I like to keep mine in the fridge for an extra cooling effect on the skin during application to improve puffiness."