Eye cream is arguably the most divisive step of an anti-aging skincare routine. While some experts insist that a good face cream can handily tend to the skin around the eyes, others argue that a cream specifically designed for the delicate area is worth the investment. But regardless of where they stand, dermatologists agree that the best eye creams for mature skin can provide instant, time-rewinding effects on signs of aging, and as a 45-year-old woman, I tend to agree.
This winter, my elixir of choice has been La Mer’s new eye cream at night to wake up looking refreshed—like I’ve slept in a coat of Miracle Broth, instead of bone-dry air. (So far, so good!) In the morning, you can find me applying Dr. Julius Few’s SPF-infused formula while I have my coffee. The results? Perhaps not as life-changing as, say, in-office tightening or resurfacing procedures, but they’re not negligible.
Vogue’s Favorite Eye Creams for Mature Skin:
According to Shannon Humphrey, MD, a board-certified dermatologist in Vancouver, “The most meaningful role of an eye cream in mature skin is to support hydration and reduce water loss. When the eyelid area is well hydrated, the skin tends to look smoother, softer, and more refreshed.” Not to mention, makeup has a smoother base. I’ll take it.
Along with hydration, some of the best eye creams for aging skin are infused with actives that provide antioxidant protection, a boost in cellular turnover, and more. Ahead, browse the seven formulas dermatologists and Vogue editors recommend for keeping the eyes lifted and taut at any age.
In This Story:
Best for Dark Circles: U Beauty The Return Eye Concentrate
- Why We Love It: For those whose primary concern is dark circles, rather than dryness, this advanced formula from U Beauty is a Vogue editor-approved pick. Dr. Humphrey notes that—while it may not be hydrating enough for very dry skin—the concentrate can visibly enhance clarity and tone. “This product has a very lightweight texture and focuses primarily on brightening ingredients,” Dr. Humphrey adds. “It contains botanical extracts—such as marine plankton—that are often positioned to help with discoloration and dark circles.” The formula is also infused with best-in-class anti-aging ingredients, including peptides for collagen production and vitamin C for additional brightening.
- Editor’s Experience: “My dark circles have gotten less noticeable in recent months, and perhaps I have this U Beauty eye cream to thank for that. Potent ingredient composition aside, I love the creamy, almost balmy texture that locks in moisture well without irritating my sensitive under-eyes.” —Kiana Murden, beauty shopping editor
- Key Ingredients: Peptides, squalane, sodium hyaluronate, plankton extract, vitamin C
- Best For: Puffiness, dark circles, loss of firmness
- Size: 0.5 fl oz