The 18 Best Eye Creams for Puffiness in 2023, According to Editors and Experts

Who says you didn’t get eight hours of sleep?

best eye creams for puffy eyes: Dior eye gel, La Mer eye concentrate and more eye creams
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Ever wake up in the morning with puffy eyes? Yea, same. While dunking your entire face in an ice bath is a worthwhile solution (seriously, the technique is all over TikTok), slathering on one of the best eye creams for puffiness will work just as well—and be a heck of a lot more enjoyable. Whether you’re partial to gel formulas and serums or gravitate towards rich, creamy creams that layer flawlessly under makeup, there’s a de-puffing, cooling, and hydrating eye cream out there that will make your under eyes look fresher than ever.

That said, there are a ton of eye creams to choose from. It can be overwhelming to weed through all the claims and marketing jargon. And when eye puffiness is your primary pain point, you need a product that addresses the swelling. Caffeine and hydrating ingredients are going to be your BFFs. To make your shopping as easy as can be, we did our research, tested a range of products, and spoke to the experts to hunt down the best eye creams for puffy eyes. 

Overview

The Best Deals on Eye Cream for Puffy Eyes

La Roche-Posay Redermic R Anti-Aging Retinol Eye Cream, $50

La Roche-Posay Redermic R Anti-Aging Retinol Eye Cream, $50 $40

For a limited time, you can scoop up this retinol-infused eye cream for 20 percent off. Just enter code 985945 at checkout  and prepare for your crow's feet to fade. 

Murad Renewing Eye Cream, $89

Murad Renewing Eye Cream, $89 $71

The brand's special eye-brightening complex will reduce puffiness—and dark circles—both immediately and over time. It's extremely hydrating too, so rest assured you'll have supple skin. 

What to Look For in a Puffy Eye Cream

  • Retinol

Not only can retinol be a transformative ingredient for your entire face, but it can also substantially improve the look of your under eye area. "Retinol helps stimulate collagen and helps reduce the hyperpigmentation which is common in this area," says board-certified dermatologist Dr. Karan Lal. That in mind, you're not going to want to double dip—pick a retinol eye cream specifically designed for the delicate skin under the eye. 

  • Hydrating Ingredients

This is pretty much the baseline for any good eye cream. Dry and dehydrated skin is only going to contribute to puffiness. Moisturizing ingredients are far and wide, but it's best to make sure your eye cream has been proven to boost moisture. “Ceramides and hyaluronic acid will make sure the skin is hydrated," says board-certified dermatologist Dr. Morgan Rabach. "Peptides can also help repair damaged collagen, which is prevalent in the aging eyelid region," adds Dr. Lal. Glycerin, fatty acids, and squalane are also worth noting. 

  • Caffeine

"Caffeine is another great ingredient which helps shrink blood vessels in the skin which reduces puffiness, albeit temporarily," says Dr. Lal. If you want to up the ante on the puffiness-reducing power, pop your caffeine-infused eye cream in the fridge before application. 

  • Fragrance-Free

While in large part fragrance in a product is personal preference, just be warned that it can exacerbate puffiness via an allergic reaction. Fragrances can also react with the sun and cause hyperpigmentation. "Hyperpigmentation in this region can last for months to years," says Dr. Lal. A product that contains fragrance isn't necessarily bad, but just use extra caution if you have sensitive skin or eyes. 

The Best Eye Creams for Puffy Eyes

The products on this list have been vetted by Marie Claire's Beauty Editor, Samantha Holender (a.k.a. yours truly) and Marie Claire's Beauty Director, Deena Campbell; or have been hand-selected by a board-certified dermatologist. Each and every one includes ingredients clinically proven to deliver de-puffing results, is highly rated by reviewers, and provides hydration. While the *best* eye cream for you will vary based on personal preference, you truly can't go wrong with one of the items on this list. For a more personalized recommendation or if you have any concerns, check with your board-certified dermatologist.