The 15 Best Expert-Approved Eye Creams for Sensitive Skin
Yes, you absolutely need an eye cream.
Every item on this page was chosen by an ELLE editor. We may earn commission on some of the items you choose to buy.
People say that the eyes are the windows to the soul. If you’re anything like me, then your windows are constantly irritated. For years, my watery, itchy eyes have prompted constant rubbing and scratching, which is less than ideal for the delicate skin around the eyes, especially if you have sensitive skin. “The skin under and around the eyes is different. It is thinner and subsequently more likely to age and become irritated. The thin skin also is more likely to become puffy with lack of sleep, stress, or age,” says board-certified dermatologist Dr. Mona A. Gohara. Because the eye area requires a bit more care to protect the skin, incorporating a product catered specifically to hydrating that delicate skin is necessary.
Eye creams are moisturizers formulated with ingredients to nourish the unique skin surrounding our eyes, like hyaluronic acid, squalene, and glycerin. But for those with sensitive skin, finding the right eye cream can feel like a tough battle. Because of the texture of the skin, the eye area is prone to fine lines, wrinkles, and dark circles, and many of the ingredients used to treat these issues, like retinol and AHAs, can cause irritation. So, to ensure you can reap all the healing and preventative benefits of eye creams without the risk of breakouts, eye creams with a weightless, gentle feel are the way to go. “Sensitive skin patients should start with actives that are non-irritating, such as niacinamide and peptides and growth factors, in lightweight bases such as hyaluronic acid,” says Dr. Jessie Cheung, board-certified dermatologist.
So, if you’re on the hunt for an eye cream to add to your routine, you’ll be happy to know that I have spent years on the same journey and have gone through the trial and error, so you don’t have to. I’ve also called on skin care professionals from the ELLE Beauty Advisory Board and poured through reviews to bring you a list of the 15 best eye creams for sensitive skin. See our selections below.
Tata Harper Restorative Anti-Aging Eye Cream
Pros
- Highly effective with quick noticeable results
Cons
- Expensive
This refillable, luxury eye cream is worth the splurge. It is infused with skin-loving ingredients, including seaweed, calcified red algae, and Spanish lavender, which support fat breakdown and boost collagen production to visibly relax the eye area for an instantly firmer, smoother result.
Sephora rating: 4/5 stars
An ELLE Editor says: “I remember one time I was showing my friend my skin care routine, and I applied this eye cream to one eye, and she was so shocked at how quickly she noticed a difference. I’ve always had eye bags, and this cream gives my skin the extra boost it needs without any irritation. It is my current favorite, and the packaging is so chic! Bonus!” —Tasha Nicole Smith, beauty assistant
Pros
- Expert approved
Cons
- Some customers feel that it is not overly hydrating
This fast-absorbing formula has a unique gel-to-cream texture that is highly nourishing, plumping, and smoothing to the delicate skin around the eye area. Dermatologist-tested ingredients also help to fight against the six most common signs of sensitivity including itchiness, dryness, and irritation.
Ulta rating: 4.6 stars
An Ulta reviewer says: “I’m on my second tube of this eye cream, and it works great. It reduces the puffiness and the dryness under my eyes. I use it in the morning and before going to sleep. I saw results in about a week. I am very happy with this eye cream.”
First Aid Beauty Retinol Eye Cream
Pros
- Silky lightweight formula
Cons
- Might not work well with other moisturizers
If you have sensitive skin but are looking for a hydrating eye cream to treat the delicate skin around the eyes, this is the eye cream for you. It is formulated with a unique encapsulated retinol technology that gently releases retinol into the skin over time for noticeably firmer skin. Though it is formulated with retinol, this formula is gentle enough to use for sensitive or reactive skin.
Sephora rating: 4.4/5 stars
A Sephora reviewer says: “I absolutely adore this eye cream! I have been using it daily and have had no sensitivity or reactions, even though it contains retinol, which is notorious for being hard on sensitive skin. The fine lines around my eyes have practically disappeared, and the eye area stays hydrated, so my eyeshadow sits better. The results are noticeable, and a little goes a long way! I highly recommend this eye cream!”
Pros
- Hydrating
Cons
- Takes time to see noticeable results
Not too long ago, snail mucin completely took over skin care on TikTok. People were raving about the hydrating glass skin finish they had after using the line. This eye cream brightens and hydrates and is the key to a vibrant, dewy skin finish.
Ulta rating: 4.3/5 stars
An ELLE Editor says: “When I saw this line going viral on TikTok, I knew I had to try it out. But after using it, I was shocked that more people weren’t talking about the eye cream. This is my standout product in the line. Even before I applied my moisturizer, this gave my skin such a dewy, healthy glow.” —Tasha Nicole Smith
Pros
- Plumps the skin
Cons
- Not brightening
Formulated with Murad’s patent-pending technology, this eye cream attracts and retains water in the skin for long-lasting hydration and plumper, more youthful-looking results.
Sephora rating: 4/5 stars
A Sephora reviewer says: “Noticeable hydrating and brightening effects after a few days of use. I have had this for a few months now and love how healthy it makes my skin look.”
Pros
- Gentle on the skin
Cons
- Some don't like the smell
This gentle gel-cream is designed specifically for sensitive skin and provides a soothing, comfortable wear. Ingredients like neurotensin reduce signs of sensitivity, such as itching, tingling, dryness, and heating sensations, that are commonly experienced with sensitive skin. The fragrance-free formula is also infused with shea butter for intense hydration.
Ulta rating: 4.2/5 stars
An Ulta reviewer says: “The eye cream is a must-have! Paired with the face cream, it makes my skin very soft and retains moisture, which is well-needed!”
Biossance Squalane + Marine Algae Firming & Lifting Eye Cream
Pros
- Has anti-inflammatory properties for depuffing
Cons
- Thicker consistency
You might not have ever thought that algae would be an ingredient you’d find in your skin care. But after using this eye cream, you’ll wonder why you didn’t use it sooner. Marine algae is known for its anti-aging and anti-inflammatory properties that help to minimize fine lines and irritation. Powered with squalane, this eye cream is a super hydrating and soothing product that will become a staple in your routine.
Sephora rating: 4.1/5 stars
An ELLE editor says: “I never keep this cream too far out of reach when doing my skin care routine. It has has such a rich and creamy texture that feels so hydrating on my dry, sensitive eyes. Even when I introduce different eye creams into my routine, I always find myself returning to this one.” —Tasha Nicole Smith
CeraVe Skin Renewing Eye Cream
Pros
- Lightweight
Cons
- Takes time to see results
Packed with nourishing ingredients like niacinamide, caffeine, and a peptide complex, this cream helps decrease puffiness and fight wrinkles and fine lines. Its gentle texture applies smoothly to the skin, leading to visibly brighter, healthier-looking skin around the eyes over time.
Ulta rating: 4.6/5 stars
An Ulta reviewer says: “I absolutely love how this eye cream feels on my skin. It feels very light yet super moisturizing. It is not sticky, and there is no strong scent. It is definitely worth the price.”
Fresh Lotus Youth Preserve Depuffing Eye Cream
Pros
- Treats uneven texture
Cons
- Not brightening
Horse chestnut extract are three words that I’m sure you’ve never thought would appear together in the same sentence, let alone as an ingredient in your eye cream. But believe it or not, horse chestnut flower extract has potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that help to relax the skin and decrease the appearance of fine lines.
Sephora rating: 4.8/5 stars
A Sephora reviewer says: “I’ve been using this product for a few weeks now. The formula is pretty good. It glides onto the skin well, and it is very moisturizing.”
Pros
- Treats dark circles
Cons
- Some don't like the smell
If you haven’t tried an eye cream yet and are looking for an affordable option before splurging, this eye cream might be the perfect choice for you. Made with caffeine and peptides, it is specifically made to combat dryness and awaken the skin.
Sephora rating: 3.8/5
A Sephora reviewer says: “After consistent use, I observed a significant reduction in puffiness and a brightening effect on my dark circles, making me look more awake and energized.”
REN Clean Skincare Brightening Dark Circle Eye Cream
Pros
- Brightening
Cons
- Not the most hydrating
When looking for products for sensitive skin, it’s important to know the ingredients you’re putting around your eyes. This eye cream is formulated with 95 percent natural ingredients to reduce dark circles. It also contains elderberry flower to brighten the skin.
Sephora rating: 4.2/5 stars
A Sephora reviewer says: “Most eye creams don’t do anything at all for me. I never really see a huge difference… but I can already tell with this! My dark circles have been going away and staying away! Much less puffiness and just an overall brighter look.”
Belif Moisturizing Eye Bomb
Pros
- Hydrating and plumping
Cons
- Some don't see noticeable changes
This lightweight cream is infused with ultra-moisturizing ingredients like peptides, ceramides, and squalane, which work together to improve skin elasticity and lock in moisture. Delivering up to 48 hours of moisture, this cream also visibly firms the skin for a brighter, more youthful result.
Sephora rating: 4.8/5 stars
A Sephora reviewer says: “It’s a very lightweight formula that goes onto the skin and eventually just melts into the face. It has hydrating properties, which are perfect for all skin types, and it doesn’t leave the skin feeling oily. It has an all-night or day hydration effect, perfect for even applying before makeup.”
Pros
- Gentle on the skin
Cons
- Greasy
Made with pure retinol and the brand’s exclusive mineral complex, this eye cream is designed to deliver visible results but is also gentle enough for everyday use. The hypoallergenic formula is perfect for those with more reactive skin, and the non-greasy finish leaves the skin looking and feeling soft and smooth.
Ulta rating: 4.4/5 stars
An Ulta reviewer says: “I recently repurchased this eye cream because it performed so well. Retinol creams can be very irritating around the eyes, but not this one. I love that it has retinol and is gentle enough to use around the eyes. It helps with crow’s feet, dark circles, and puffy eyes.”
Clinique All About Eyes Rich Eye Cream
Pros
- Soothing
Cons
- Some don't notice visible results
For those prone to sensitive or dry under eyes, but still love full-coverage makeup, this eye cream works as an excellent primer and moisturizer before applying makeup. With caffeine and hyaluronic acid, the hydrating cream absorbs into the skin, leaving a silky smooth finish that visibly brightens the eyes.
Ulta rating: 4.5/5 stars
An Ulta reviewer says: “This is the most moisturizing eye cream I’ve tried! My under eyes get insanely dry from using tretinoin, and this is the only cream I’ve found that actually helps with the dryness. It has a thicker texture that keeps the under eyes plump and smooth. This is my favorite eye cream!”
Pros
- Moisturizing
Cons
- Thicker consistency
Formulated to deeply hydrate and depuff the under eyes, this eye cream is made with avocado oil to moisturize the skin and prevent signs of aging, such as fine lines and wrinkles. The rich consistency also feels nourishing to the skin without feeling greasy. Our digital beauty director, Danielle James, loves the creamy texture. "A little goes a long way, and I love how it feels as I lightly tap the formula onto my under eye area. This may seem slightly expensive for Kiehl’s, but it is definitely worth the price!”
Ulta rating: 4.3/5 stars
An ELLE editor says: “I first tried this as a sample, and the next day, I immediately went to the store to buy the full size. It was one of the first eye creams I ever used, and it really solidified it as a step in my skincare routine. It is so hydrating, and I love how rich the texture is while still feeling lightweight.” —Tasha Nicole Smith
What are the benefits of an eye cream?
Eye creams are an extra boost of moisture to add to your skincare routine to treat the particularly delicate skin around your eyes. “Since the skin around the eye is so thin, it responds quickly to any intervention but can also be more prone to irritation,” says Cheung. “The main benefit is to keep this thin skin hydrated. If you have puffy eyes, look for a cream that contains caffeine. If hyperpigmentation is a concern, look for vitamin C, niacinamide, peptide, and retinol-containing products. To reduce age-related changes, eye creams with SPF, retinol, and peptides are a great choice,” Jeffy adds.
What ingredients should people with sensitive skin look for in a good eye cream?
Because the skin surrounding the eyes is already so fragile, it’s best to look for hydrating ingredients that will nourish the skin while also treating common issues like aging and puffiness. “Fragrance-free products that focus on hydration with ingredients like hyaluronic acid, glycerin, and collagen. Peptides should also be tolerable,” says Jeffy.
When should I use an eye cream in my routine?
To ensure that you get the best results for your eye cream it’s best to insert this step before adding your moisturizer. After using your serums, follow up with an eye cream focusing on the under eye and surrounding area. Then, proceed with your moisturizing cream and an SPF.
Meet the Experts
Dr. Jessie Cheung is a board-certified dermatologist based in Illinois and New York.
Dr. Mona A. Gohara is a board-certified dermatologist.
Dr. Brooke Jeffy is a board-certified dermatologist and teen skincare expert.
Why Trust ELLE Beauty?
As a leading publisher of fashion, lifestyle, and beauty content, ELLE.com is committed to highlighting the best products in various categories by personally testing the latest and most innovative products, interviewing countless experts, and vetting customer-loved items. For this piece, ELLE.com editors spoke with skin care experts about the absolute best eye creams for sensitive skin. The authors personally tested a number of these products and scoured reviews for the top-rated products on the market.
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