If you're searching for the best eye creams for mature skin, consider this your gentle nudge: your under-eyes deserve dedicated care—not just whatever's left over from the rest of your skincare routine. "The skin around the eyes is the thinnest and most delicate on the face, so it tends to show aging earlier," says board-certified plastic surgeon Akshay Sanan, MD. "I recommend starting eye cream in your late twenties or early thirties, even before visible fine lines appear. Prevention is key." But even if you're well past that window, it's never too late to show this fragile area some extra love, or upgrade your current formulation with one that works.
For those navigating mature skin—think fine lines that pop out of nowhere, puffiness that lingers, or skin that craves moisture—the right formula can make all the difference. Today's eye creams are loaded with powerhouse ingredients, including retinol, peptides, hyaluronic acid, caffeine, and vitamin C, to smooth, de-puff, hydrate, and brighten the skin.
And application matters just as much as what's inside: both Dr. Sanan and board-certified dermatologist Karan Lal, DO, emphasize the importance of using a light touch. For all the doctor's tips and recommendations, keep reading for the best eye cream for every concern that mature skin may encounter—tested and approved by women 50 and above.
The Sturm Anti-Aging Eye Cream is the definition of a splurge, but it doesn't mess around—it's basically a one-stop shop for mature under-eyes. The texture is rich without feeling heavy, sinking in quickly enough to layer under makeup while still leaving the area cushy and hydrated. Persian silk tree extract helps lift droopy lids and ease puffiness, while hyaluronic acid and ceramides handle dryness and fine lines. Toss in antioxidant-rich purslane for protection, and you've got a formula that actually makes tired, mature eyes look smoother and brighter.
Key Ingredients: Lipids, ceramides (supports skin barrier); Botanical extracts (protects skin with antioxidants); Panthenol (soothes and hydrates); Hyaluronic acid, glycerin (hydrates)
What I Love: Can layer under makeup; Fragrance-free, so safe for sensitive skin; Spreads like butter
What I Don't: Most expensive option on this list
Review for MC: "This is my all-time favorite eye cream. I know it's expensive, but it's so worth it for its smooth, silky, rich texture that is instantly hydrating. My eyes feel and look awake and refreshed." — Mindy Holender (56)
Mindy Holender applies the Dr. Barbara Sturm Super Anti-Aging Eye Cream.
If crow's feet are your main concern, this is the eye cream derms consistently back. The texture is cushiony and comforting—a mix between a heavy balm and a lotion—which means drier under-eyes soak it up happily. With consistent use, fine lines look less etched, and dark circles don't look quite as prominent.
Key Ingredients: Peptides (supports collagen production for firmer skin); Squalane (traps moisture in skin); Ginseng extract (brightens)
What I Love: Contains a proprietary blend of peptides to increase firmness and elasticity; Best used as a night cream treatment to wake up with visibly refreshed eyes
What I Don't: Contains fragrance
Review for MC: "This one is nice and thick, and I've been using it forever. The creamy formula blurs fine lines around my eyes, and I always reach for it if I want something super hydrating—often in cooler months." — Mindy Holender (56)
Mindy Holender applies the Shiseido Anti-Aging Eye Cream.
Before you say, "Why would I want my under-eyes to look even puffier?!" hear me out. This formulation actually boosts hydration and elasticity, so the skin plumps ever-so slightly in all the right places (i.e., crows' feet, sallow eyes), smoothing fine lines and giving a fresh, youthful appearance. Peptides are to thank for their firming abilities, while niacinamide brightens darkness and dullness.
Key Ingredients: Peptides (supports collagen production for firmer skin); Niacinamide (evens skin tone); Squalane (traps moisture in skin)
What I Love: Available on Amazon for easy, quick shipping; Relatively inexpensive; Peptide-packed treatment
What I Don't: Should wait a minute or two for it to dry down before applying makeup, as it may pill
Review for MC: "I continue to purchase this lovely eye cream from Amazon since I often run out of it quickly because it's always the one I grab. Over time, I've noticed a noticeable decrease in wrinkles. No eye cream is a miracle worker at almost 80, but this one comes pretty close! — Jackie Witherow, 76
Jackie Witherow applies the Medicube Deep Reviving Peptide Eye Serum.
Skin begging for a gulp of hydration? This roll-on serum delivers in every sense. This pick instantly cools and refreshes thanks to its gold lymphatic roller, while a hit of niacinamide and vitamin C work behind the scenes to brighten darkness over time. Caffeine gives a temporary visible pep-up, so tired eyes look awake and energized.
Key Ingredients: Niacinamide (evens skin tone); Vitamin C (brightens); Squalane (traps moisture in skin)
What I Love: Cooling roller applicator offers immediate de-puffing benefits; High dose of niacinamide that is proven to have anti-aging effects
What I Don't: Because of the direct-to-skin application, it may harbor bacteria if not used on a clean face
Review for MC: "Every morning, I look forward to the cooling effect of the rolling applicator for my puffy eyes. But the best part? My makeup goes on perfectly smooth afterwards!" — Mindy Holender (56)
Mindy Holender applies the Biossance 5% Niacinamide Brightening Eye Serum With Vitamin C + Squalane.
Caffeine isn't just delegated to coffee—it's actually a proven way to temporarily constrict under-eye blood vessels, reducing puffiness and the look of dark circles. Dr. Lal recommends this pick for its smart combo of caffeine and a blend of peptides, which smooth and firm, while a gentle exfoliator resurfaces for a smooth texture. Lightweight, fast-absorbing, and surprisingly affordable given its powerhouse ingredients—this one is an easy pick for mature skin.
Key Ingredients: Caffeine (firms and reduces puffiness); Peptides (supports collagen production for firmer skin); Chemical exfoliant (smooths texture)
What I Love: Most affordable option on this list; Has a luxury-beauty ingredient formulation; Dries almost instantly
What I Don't: Caffeine effects are only temporary
Customer Review: "The caffeine in this product visibly reduces fine lines and puffiness below and next to my eyes. My 78-year-old mother recently tried mine and also saw results. I ordered a cream for her." — Sephora
Dark circles are stubborn for a reason; they can't truly be erased, but they can look brighter and less noticeable. Estée Lauder's gel eye cream hydrates with hyaluronic acid and protects against free radicals with vitamin E. The lightweight, silky texture smooths fine lines and visibly refreshes the area, giving tired eyes a brighter, more awake appearance.
Key Ingredients: Hyaluronic acid (hydrates); Vitamin E (protects against environmental aggressors); Peptides (supports collagen production for firmer skin)
What I Love: Works beautifully overnight; Skin is super soft in the AM
What I Don't: Does not include an applicator, which can introduce bacteria to the jar
Customer Review: "I absolutely love everything about this Gel-Crème. It feels luxurious, glides on nicely, has no strong smell, is easy to apply makeup over, and dramatically moisturizes my under-eye area. I haven’t loved an eye cream this much in years." — Sephora
Exosomes are the beauty world's buzziest new miracle ingredient, and this eye serum shows why. The hyped ingredient basically acts as tiny messengers that tell your skin to repair, renew, and glow. ( plated ) Skin Science is one of (if not the) most recommended exosome brands from dermatologists, including Dr. Sanan. This serum tackles every major under-eye complaint: puffiness, fine lines, crow's feet, crepey skin, and even sagging lids. It's lightweight yet potent, and is an example of cosmetic science at its best.
Key Ingredients: Exosomes (repair and renew skin); Caffeine (firms and reduces puffiness); Hyaluronic acid (hydrates)
What I Love: Exosomes are the buzziest ingredient in skincare right now; A doctor-backed brand
What I Don't: Exosome skincare is more effective when combined with a treatment
Customer Review: "This EYE serum is SO GOOD! I have used many eye products, and I can't express how happy I am with the results I'm seeing with ( plated )! I started using the intense serum and saw phenomenal results, so I figured I'd try the Eye Cream. I've noticed a lot of improvement in crepey skin and have had significant texture improvement. Also, the purple under-eye bag situation has improved so much!" — ( plated )
If you've been hesitant to try retinol around your delicate eyes, this is your low-stakes, high-reward intro. RoC's cream is a cult favorite for a reason: it tackles puffiness, dark circles, and fine lines all at once, without feeling harsh like other retinols on the market. It's gentle enough for daily use (though start slow if you're new to the ingredient), yet effective enough to visibly smooth fine lines with consistent use. Oh, and did I mention it's one of the most affordable creams on this list?!
Key Ingredients: Retinol (promotes cellular turnover);
What I Love: Super gentle formulation; Inexpensive with the same abilities as its more expensive counterparts
What I Don't: Retinol takes time and consistent use to see true results
Customer Review: "I'm a 65-year-old man who has recently formed bags under both eyes. I bought and have been using your rye cream for about six weeks. There has been a significant improvement. I use the cream twice a day and even though my skin is sensitive, I've had no irritation." — Ulta
Mature skin can absolutely wear eyeshadow—yes, even the bold or shimmery stuff—and Jones Road's Eye Cream makes it effortless. Pillowy and hydrating, it glides onto delicate under-eyes with zero tugging, thanks to macademia seed oil and skin-protecting antioxidants. Use a tiny amount before applying your shadow, and it doubles as a primer, smoothing texture so color goes on evenly and stays put. Extra dry day? Tap a little on top of your makeup for a quick refresh.
Key Ingredients: Antioxidants (protects skin from environmental aggressors); Macademia oil (moisturizes and prevents water loss to the skin barrier)
What I Love: Doubles as an eye cream and eye primer;
What I Don't: Not super available yet at mass retailers
Customer Review: "This is the only eye cream I can use…and I have tried and used many. I am very sensitive to scent in all creams, especially near my eyes. I can apply this eye cream without any issue at all. I am very happy with it." — Jones Road
When Is a Good Time to Begin Using an Eye Cream?
Both Dr. Lal and Dr. Sanan agree: earlier is better. Dr. Lal recommends starting in your twenties, noting that it's common to see patients come in for a blepharoplasty (i.e., an eyelid lift) in their forties. Meanwhile, Dr. Sanan explains that the skin around the eyes is the thinnest and most delicate on the face, meaning it often shows signs of aging first. "I recommend starting eye cream in your late twenties or early thirties, even before visible fine lines appear. Prevention is key," he says.
Think of eye cream as an insurance policy: hydrating and protecting the area early helps delay wrinkles, puffiness, and dark circles. And if you're already past that timeline, an eye cream can help delay the aging process; the earlier you can begin using one, the more beneficial it can be.
When and How Do I Apply an Eye Cream?
Both doctors emphasize the importance of gentle application. Dr. Lal notes that irritation can lead to hyperpigmentation, dryness, and crepiness, which can exacerbate the appearance of wrinkles. Dr. Sanan advises applying eye cream with a light tapping motion along the orbital bone "from the outer corner inward" after cleansing, and before moisturizer or sunscreen so the active ingredients can get to work.
What Ingredients Should I Look For?
Look for products that address hydration, firmness, and brightness. Dr. Sanan breaks it down:
- Retinol (low-strength): Stimulates collagen to reduce fine lines.
- Peptides: Improve elasticity and firmness.
- Hyaluronic Acid: Hydrates and plumps to soften crepiness.
- Vitamin C: Brightens and helps fade dark circles.
- Caffeine: Constricts blood vessels to reduce puffiness.
How We Tested
Women aged 50 and above were selected to undergo a rigorous testing period, during which they reviewed dozens of eye creams. After consulting with dermatologists and facial plastic surgeons to determine the top picks, they tested each eye cream for its ability to smooth fine lines, hydrate the under-eye area, sit well under eye makeup, and overall how it felt to compile this list of the best eye creams for mature skin. They also evaluated customer reviews and best-selling products across our favorite retailers.
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For more than 30 years, Marie Claire has been an internationally recognized destination for news, fashion, and beauty trends, investigative packages, and more. When it comes to the products Marie Claire recommends, we take your faith in us seriously. Every product that we feature comes personally recommended by a Marie Claire writer or editor, or by an expert we’ve spoken to firsthand.
Meet the Experts
Dr. Sanan is a highly skilled cosmetic and reconstructive facial plastic surgeon and is double board-certified in facial plastic surgery and head and neck surgery. He is the founder of Dr. Sanan Facial Plastic Surgery in Boston and Chestnut Hill, Massachusetts.
Raised in the Boston suburbs, Dr. Sanan is a proud third-generation doctor. Dr. Sanan’s family ties originate in Punjab, a region in India known for its beauty, art, and culture. This early exposure to medicine and beauty contributed to Dr. Sanan’s decision to pursue a career as a facial plastic surgeon.
Dr. Sanan was accepted to the Boston University School of Medicine out of high school through the highly competitive and prestigious seven-year accelerated medical program at Boston University. Upon graduation, he received the Dean Eleanor Tyler Award, given to the top graduate of the medical program, and was inducted into the Gold Humanism Honor Society.
Karan Lal, D.O., F.A.A.D., is a native New Yorker now living in Scottsdale, Arizona. He practices in both Scottsdale and New York. Dr. Lal is the only double fellowship-trained pediatric and cosmetic dermatologist in the USA. He is a key opinion leader and international speaker with interests including social media medicine, LGBTQ health, eczema, psoriasis, vitiligo, laser surgery, melasma, and soft tissue augmentation. He is the chair of the social media committee for the Society of Pediatric Dermatology and is on the ASDS DEI committee.
