I've Tested Hundreds of Eye Creams...And These 15 Are My All-Time Faves for Getting Rid of Puffiness

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No matter how much water I drink or how many hours I sleep, I always seem to wake up with puffy eyes. Over the years, I've learned that there’s only so much under eye concealer can do to make eyes look less sleepy, but incorporating a depuffing eye cream (and the occasional cold compress) into your skincare routine can make a significant difference. Specifically, incorporating one of the 15 eye creams for puffiness I've rounded up below. Trust me when I say I've tested hundreds of options, from drugstore eye creams to eye creams that smooth wrinkles and take down puffiness, and these 15 options are absolute standouts.

And I'm not the only one obsessed with these depuffing eye creams. Five expert dermatologists also love these formulas—and even shared their best tips and tricks for choosing the right depuffing eye cream for your skin types and concerns. Keep reading for the full list and insights from the experts.

Retinol Correxion Line Smoothing Eye Cream

Dr. Zeichner says that under eye crepiness and puffiness are the result of weakening collagen and elastin fibers from things like aging, UV exposure, and inflammation from chronic rubbing of the eyes. The fix? This top-rated retinol eye cream, which happens to be a favorite of mine and many dermatologists. “It contains a gentle form of retinol to strengthen under eye skin and reduce the appearance of lines as well as puffiness and dark circles," says Dr. Zeichner. This is a favorite of Dr. Alexiades’ as well. Dr. Alexiades cautions that those with sensitive skin should be hesitant, though, as this may be too harsh for them. A patch test is always a smart move before trying something new.

• Key ingredients: Retinol, glycerin

• Fragrance-free? Yes

• Usage: Morning and/or evening

THE REVIEW: “I've been using this product for about a week now. It is amazing! I can definitely see a difference in my under eye puffiness and dark circles. I use it twice a day, morning and night. Plus the price is great—I'll never waste my money on those expensive products again which simply don't work, for me anyway,” wrote one reviewer.

Instant FIRMx Temporary Eye Tightener

If you’re on TikTok, chances are you’ve seen this unbelievable eye cream at work with some very shocking (and convincing) before and after videos. While it might seem too good to be true, this temporary tightener is the real deal, and according to Dr. Robinson it's the best eye cream for treating puffiness. In addition to shrinking under eye bags, the formula helps to smooth crow's feet and deep wrinkles in as little as three minutes thanks to a patented blend of peptides, minerals, and seaweed extract. Of course, this isn’t going to be a permanent cure for puffiness and lines, but it can definitely help reduce their appearance temporarily.

• Key ingredients: Peptides, seaweed extract, alfalfa seed extract

• Fragrance-free? Yes

• Usage: As needed

THE REVIEW: "This stuff really works, wrote one tester. "I was taking a chance figuring it wasn't going to work but I was wrong—I put it under one eye and waited and could not believe the difference!!! I said ok now I know why women get Botox. When I put this on under my eyes it makes me look so much better that I don't even need makeup!”

Magic Eye Rescue Cream with Retinol

One of my personal favorites on the list, this eye cream from celebrity makeup artist Charlotte Tilbury is nothing short of magical for your under eyes. It has a very rich, almost balm-like consistency that traps moisture under the eyes so that the delicate (and often dry) skin in that area is left smooth and hydrated. Dr. Zeichner is a fan too and says “this rich cream combines retinol with antioxidants like vitamin C, and vitamin E to strengthen and brighten the skin under the eyes.” He adds that the depuffing action is courtesy of a botanical blend.

• Key ingredients: Retinol, vitamin C, plant-derived stem cells, shea butter

• Fragrance-free? No

• Usage: Morning and/or evening

THE REVIEW: “Literally life-changing. The only eye cream so far that doesn’t irritate my eyes. I have extremely dry eyes that borderline bleed from the cracking and this is the only cream that heals them. It absorbs so well into my skin. It’s an expensive product but definitely worth it," one reviewer writes.

Eye Repair Cream

CeraVe's Eye Repair Cream is an excellent choice for someone who is new to using an eye cream or anyone who has sensitive skin. I consider it the white t-shirt of eye creams; a basic that you can always rely on in your line-up. I love its gel-like formula under my eyes because it feels refreshing, weightless, and absorbs quickly. It gives me a little pick-me-up in the morning that won’t mess with my makeup for the day either.

• Key ingredients: Ceramides, hyaluronic acid

• Fragrance-free? Yes

• Usage: Morning and/or evening

THE REVIEW: “I have dark circles and puffiness under my eyes. I heard about this product, checked the reviews, and decided to give it a try. Boy was I surprised! I used it in the morning and before bed. By the second day, I could see a noticeable difference. I have been using this for about a week. It works! Highly recommend. I will buy this again!,” writes one reviewer.

Auracle Eye Gel

A favorite of Dr. O’Connell’s (and cool girls everywhere), Dieux's Auracle Eye Gel is super hydrating yet incredibly lightweight. “This gel formula goes on so smooth and contains an algae complex which plumps the skin and peptides which help depuff,” says Dr. O'Connell. And not to judge a book by its cover, but the pale green bottle is super cute, making it all the more appealing IMO.

• Key ingredients: Glycerin, peptides, algae extract

• Fragrance-free? Yes

• Usage: Morning and evening

THE REVIEW: "I absolutely love this eye cream! It has quickly become my new favorite part of my skin care routine, not only because it feels amazing on my sensitive skin and immediately plumps and hydrates but also because it has already started to smooth out my fine lines after only a few weeks,” reads one tester review.

Banana Bright+ Vitamin C Brightening Eye Crème

The first time I tested this eye cream I was hooked. I've been using it for as long as I can remember, and it consistently makes my eye area look more wide-awake. I wouldn’t say that it’s the number one eye cream for puffiness, but it does brighten like a champ, which helps draw attention away from any bags or puffiness under my eyes. It's also *perfect* for under concealer and makeup thanks to a creamy, non-pilling formula and a banana-inspired tint that helps neutralize discoloration upon application.

• Key ingredients: Hardy orange extract, vitamin C, jojoba seed oil

• Fragrance-free? Yes

• Usage: Morning

THE REVIEW: "I love this product. It is very thick but feels really nice on my face. It left a glow under my eyes and when applying makeup on top, it seemed to sit on my face very well rather than getting splotchy,” reads a tester’s review.

Bright Start Activated Eye Cream

One of the top ways to quickly get rid of puffiness is by gently pressing a cooling tool, or even a cold spoon, under your eyes. Lucky for you, this eye cream has a cooling ceramic tip applicator so you can leave your spoons in the kitchen. By massaging your under eyes with the cooling tip as you apply the caffeine-and peptide-packed formula, you can double the depuffing benefits. This bb is an absolute staple in my morning skincare routine, especially after nights when I've had one-too-many margs at happy hour.

• Key ingredients: Sea fennel extract, peptides, caffeine, avocado extract

• Fragrance-free? Yes

• Usage: Morning

THE REVIEW: "This product is easy to apply and absorbs quickly. It makes concealer and foundation easier to put on. It blends well in the skin and the applicator is easy to use. A definite must-have in my daily beauty routine," writes one tester.

Isdinceutics Vital Eyes

Wake up to smoother, puff-free under eyes with this nighttime eye cream from Isdin. The potent combo of caffeine, melatonin (it's rich in antioxidants), and softening rice extract works to repair and replenish the delicate skin around your eyes while you sleep, says Dr. Cheung. It also comes with a chic little wand to treat your eyes to a soothing, cooling sensation during applicator.

• Key ingredients: Caffeine, melatonin, sea algae extract, rice extract

• Fragrance-free? No

• Usage: Evening

THE REVIEW: "I have used this ISDIN Vital Eyes several times and it works wonders. The texture is smooth, and after a couple of weeks, you really see improvements in fine lines and overall hydration around the eyes. It comes with a little applier which I find really cool. It feels refreshing. The packaging is classy and the smell is very nice. I totally recommend it,” writes one tester.

Peace Out Puffy Eyes

No, these aren't technically an eye cream, but there aren’t many things that feel as good (or work as well) as popping on a set of under eye patches after a late night. I slap on these caffeine-and hyaluronic acid-infused patches while I do my eye makeup to help hydrate and depuff my under eyes and help catch any fallout from my eyeshadow. Plus, I love that they’re made of a bio-cellulose material that helps seal in moisture, but without feeling too sticky or slimy on my skin.

• Key ingredients: Caffeine, niacinamide, hyaluronic acid

• Fragrance-free? Yes

• Usage: As needed

THE REVIEW: “These are my absolute favorite under eye patches." writes one tester. "They feel soothing and they leave me looking well-rested. They are a little expensive for my budget so they are something I look forward to using when I want to treat myself."

High Performance Eye Cream

Formulated by Dr. Alexiades herself, Dr. Alexiades says that this eye cream “delivers 38 plant actives that target under eye circles and puffiness and help reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.” It's an investment for sure, but in my experience this is a great option for someone who is serious about their skincare and looking to effectively combat advanced signs of aging around the eyes and such as uneven texture, dark circles, loss of firmness, and puffiness.

• Key ingredients: Peptides, hyaluronic acid, coffee seed extract

• Fragrance-free? Yes

• Usage: Morning and/or evening

THE REVIEW: "The eye cream that everyone needs in their routine! I’ve thoroughly loved using this eye cream. It’s helped depuff my under eye area in the morning, keeps my under eye skin soft and smooth, and my favorite of all is that it’s diminished the fine lines I have. It’s the holy grail!,” writes one reviewer.

Caffeine Eye Cream

Like a shot of espresso for your under eyes, this caffeine-filled eye cream helps to temporarily constrict blood vessels, which boosts circulation and reduces puffiness. For a two-pronged approach to depuffing, I like to keep the tube in the fridge. The combo of caffeine and coldness are a match made in heaven for tackling puffiness and under-eye bags on especially rough mornings.

• Key ingredients: Caffeine, peptides

• Fragrance-free? Yes

• Usage: Morning and/or evening

THE REVIEW: "This eye cream is non-greasy, unscented, and very light but effective, especially if the skin around your eyes is puffy," reads one review. "I really like that it is in a small tube and I can squeeze out the tiniest bit without putting my finger into the container.”

A.G.E. Eye Complex

Another favorite among derms and beauty editors, this eye cream is going to treat a myriad of age-related under eye concerns including puffiness, dark circles, and wrinkles. It's infused with optical diffusers to create subtle radiance under your eyes to instantly disguise dark shadows, along with peptides and antioxidants for long-term smoothing and firming.

• Key ingredients: Peptides, caffeine, blueberry extract

• Fragrance-free? Yes

• Usage: Morning and/or night

THE REVIEW: "I have been using this eye cream for over a month and I can honestly say it's making such a difference. People keep telling me I look younger! Sure, it's pricey, but definitely worth every penny IMO."“

Eye Elixir Cooling Eye Treatment Cream

Dr. O’Connell says that this eye cream from Tru Alchemy is one of her favorites for depuffing and brightening the eye area. “The formula is a hybrid of a cream and a serum, meaning it penetrates the skin deeply like a serum and hydrates just like a cream," says Dr. O'Connell. It also has all of the key ingredients for depuffing, brightening, and smoothing. Think: hyaluronic acid, caffeine, vitamin C, niacinamide, and squalane.

• Key ingredients: Caffeine, hyaluronic acid, vitamin C

• Fragrance-free? Yes

• Usage: Morning and/or evening

THE REVIEW: “I was skeptical about this product but after using it for about a week I can see the difference in the puffiness on my eyes," writes one reviewer. "The only thing is it has to be applied daily—it’s not a permanent solution.”

Eye Cream

Inspired by Soho House members’ busy schedules, this eye cream is designed to treat specific skin concerns that may arise on the road—aka tired, puffy-looking eyes. Though it’s tiny, the tube is mighty and perfect for keeping with me in my carry-on. I like to glide the cooling metal tip under my eyes and even along my brow bone a few minutes before landing to feel refreshed and look a little more put together post-flight.

• Key ingredients: Peptides, hyaluronic acid, squalane, fatty acids

• Fragrance-free? Yes

• Usage: As needed

THE REVIEW: “My under eye bags appear less harsh after using this—plus I love the applicator; it's really gentle for applying and has a nice cooling effect,” reads one review.

Restorative Eye Treatment

This eye cream for puffiness is on the pricey side, but Dr. Cheung says that it’s "worth it because it’s packed with clinically-backed ingredients like antioxidants, niacinamide, TriHex technology.” TriHex is a patented ingredient from Alastin that’s meant to boost collagen and elastin production, which is what helps the under eye area to appear plump and smooth—not puffy. Dr. Cheung adds that this eye cream “keeps skin hydrated without feeling heavy,” so it’s great for under makeup and all-day wear too.

• Key ingredients: TriHex technology, niacinamide, green tea extract

• Fragrance-free? Yes

• Usage: Morning and evening

THE REVIEW: One loyal tester wrote, “I have been using Alastin's Restorative Eye Treatment for over 10 years and I swear my eye area hasn't aged. I can't live without this stuff!"

Which cream is best for puffy eyes?

The best cream for puffy eyes will contain specific ingredients for depuffing and firming (like caffeine and peptides) and will be formulated for your specific skin type. For example, an eye cream that’s super potent and yields amazing results for one person may be too strong for someone with sensitive skin.

Some people also say that the best eye cream for puffy eyes is one that comes with a cooling, massage tip applicator (like Isdin's, Ilia's, Soho Skin's, and Tru Alchemy's above) which helps with further depuffing.

How do you depuff your eyes fast?

To depuff your eyes fast, you can dunk your face in an ice bath or apply cold compresses to your eyes, says Dr. Cheung. Dr. Cheung also says that placing chilled cucumber slices or damp tea bags on your eyes can depuff in a pinch as well. Damp tea bags are especially useful because you'll get the cooling effects as well as some caffeine for reducing inflammation. Giving yourself a lymphatic massage (with your hands or an ice roller) can help to move any puffiness-inducing fluid around and deflate under eye bags as well.

How to choose a depuffing eye cream:

Keep an eye out for key ingredients and labels.

“When choosing an eye cream it is crucial to read the ingredient list,” says Dr. O’Connell. “There are a few key ingredients—including caffeine, peptides, and hyaluronic acid—that really work well at taking away puffiness, especially when combined, and so those are the ones you want to look for.” Dr. Cheung also says that “ingredients that help firm and strengthen your skin, including retinol and antioxidants, will help to fight puffy eyes” too.

Don't forget to read tester reviews.

Dr. Alexiades says to always check the reviews before buying or using a product. “If you read that the product stings or burns, stay away because this can backfire and worsen puffiness.” She adds that if the reviews are glowing, that can give you some reassurance that the product is a winner.

Meet the experts:

• Deanne Mraz Robinson, MD, is a dermatologist and co-founder of Modern Dermatology in Westport, CT.

• Joshua Zeichner, MD, is an associate professor of dermatology and the director of cosmetic & clinical research in dermatology at Mount Sinai Hospital in New York, NY.

• Macrene Alexiades, MD, Ph.D. is a dermatologist and founder of New York Dermatology and Laser Surgery Center as well as the skincare brand, Macrene Actives.

• Jessica Cheung, MD, is a dermatologist practicing in Chicago and New York

• Adrienne O'Connell, DO, is a doctor of osteopathic medicine in Laguna Beach, CA. Dr. O’Connell is also the president and medical director of Laguna Beach Aesthetics.

Why trust Cosmopolitan?:

Lisa DeSantis is a freelance writer who has been in the beauty industry for nearly ten years. She began her career in beauty and fashion at QVC and has since written for and contributed to top women's magazines and digital brands such as Health, Real Simple, Cosmopolitan, Motherly, Byrdie and more. She has tested thousands of products and considers herself a professional guinea pig who's always on the search for the next big trends in beauty, wellness, and beyond.

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