One thing about me: I’ve never gotten enough sleep. Combine that with the fact that I’m getting older and live in a pollution-filled city, and I’m extra concerned about my under-eye area. Thankfully, the best retinol eye creams can improve skin texture, reduce fine lines and wrinkles, boost collagen and elastin production, and help diminish dark circles.
If you’re surprised that your under-eye skin is aging faster than the rest of your face, board-certified dermatologist Morgan Rabach, MD FAAD, explains that “the skin on the eyelids is the thinnest skin on the body, with very little fat, making it more prone to showing signs of aging and damage than any other area of the face." Pair that with the fact that the contour of the lower eyelid naturally gets more damaging sunlight, and the under-eye is more prone to showing signs of aging.
While dozens of five-star eye creams are on the market—ones for brightening, puffiness, hydration, and even dark circles—an eye cream infused with retinol can help smooth out the under-eye skin in as little as six weeks. Below, see 12 of our favorites with recommendations from board-certified experts.
Best Retinol Eye Creams
- Best Retinol Eye Cream Overall: La Roche-Posay Redermic R Eyes Retinol Eye Cream
- Best Brightening Retinol Eye Cream: Ranavat Brightening Retinol Eye Cream
- Best Dermatologist-Developed Retinol Eye Cream: SkinCeuticals Retinol 0.5
- Best K-Beauty Retinol Eye Cream: Peach & Lily Pure Peach Retinoic Eye Cream
- Best Drugstore Retinol Eye Cream: Neutrogena Rapid Wrinkle Repair Eye Cream
La Roche-Posay is one of our favorite brands because it offers the luxury of high-quality, elevated formulations while still being available at drugstore prices. Their Retinol Eye Cream, in particular, is formulated for sensitive skin, making it ideal for first-time retinol users. It targets fine lines and provides a lifting effect, thanks to caffeine as a key ingredient. Caffeine also helps reduce the appearance of dark under-eye circles and depuffs the area. Board-certified dermatologist Mina Amin, MD FAAD, recommends this "for people who are looking to target dark circles and crow’s feet.”
Key Ingredients: Retinol linoleate (smoothing), caffeine (reduces dark circles), hyaluronic acid (hydrating)
What We Love: Moisturizing, applies smoothly
What We Don’t: Some have problems with the packaging
Review for MC: "I think of the under-eye area as a beast always looking to be fed: sleep, nourishing ingredients, and a really good eye cream. This one is one of my favorites because it’s under $50 (some can get quite pricey) and really brightens up my dark circles. Paired with a good concealer, I can trick everyone into thinking I get the recommended eight hours." — Iman Balagam, Beauty Freelancer
Apply this before bed and swap in a hydration eye cream in the morning.
Ranavat is one of my favorite brands because it’s centered around Ayurvedic ingredients and rituals that have been practiced for tens of thousands of years. The formulas are highly effective, and the ingredients are luxurious—like saffron—justifying the higher price point. This brightening eye cream is designed to be applied every night, with its creamy texture and soothing scent signaling bedtime for me. The brand backs up its claims with clinical results: 94 percent of users saw a reduction in the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. Board-certified dermatologist Azza Halim, MD FAAD, also notes that it’s great for “smoothing under-eye texture and is known for its natural ingredients that are microencapsulated for better absorption like saffron, retinol, and bakuchi seed.”
Key Ingredients: Micro-encapsulated retinol (smoothing), saffron (brightening)
What We Love: Helps with wrinkles and dark circles, product absorbs well, nourishing
What We Don’t: Some have problems with the pump
Review for MC: “My truth is that I think under-eye circles are hot, but I still don’t want to look deathly ill, so I love to pack on this one. It’s definitely a splurge, but all of the brand’s products feel so luxurious in my nighttime routine. I’m obsessed with everything from Ranavat, especially because I’ve read Ayurveda for Dummies before. Plus, it smells really, really good.” — Iman Balagam, Beauty Freelancer
No one needs to know I've only slept four hours.
This retinol is one of my favorites for promoting cell turnover, anti-aging, and skin clarity, especially on days when my skin feels more sensitive. It’s also fragrance-free, which is a huge plus for the sensitive skin community (myself included). Dr. Halim explains that it offers “effective properties while being gentle enough to minimize irritation, with packaging designed to preserve potency.” Additionally, it contains ceramides, which provide hydration while preventing fine lines. If you have extra-sensitive skin, she recommends opting for the 0.3% Retinol instead of the 0.5% dose.
Key Ingredients: Retinol (smoothing), botanical extracts (hydrating)
What We Love: Safe for sensitive skin, glides on smooth
What We Don’t: Retinol concentration may be too high for some
Review for MC: "This is one of my favorite retinol creams because I can not only use it all over my face, but also around my crow's feet. My skin is fairly sensitive, but I find that because the retinol is balanced out with soothing botanical extracts, I'm able to tolerate the formula pretty well. I normally only use this twice per week, but if your skin is less sensitive, you should be able to tolerate more frequent use." — Samantha Holender, Beauty Editor
While some lines under the eye is to be expected, this retinol eye cream will make a huge difference.
If retinol freaks you out, or if your baby-sensitive skin can’t handle it, this fragrance-free eye cream features bakuchiol, “a retinol alternative that protects skin from the signs of photo-aging,” explains board-certified dermatologist Brendan Camp, MD FAAD. Regular use targets fine lines, wrinkles, and dark spots. It also contains a blend of peach extract, the brand’s superfood complex, and niacinamide, which brightens the skin, reduces inflammation, and keeps skin firm. A little goes a long way, so be gentle when applying it.
Key Ingredients: Bakuchiol (retinol alternative), peach extract (brightening), niacinamide (brightening)
What We Love: Helps with dark circles and anti-aging
What We Don’t: Some fine the texture a bit runny
Review for MC: "I'm a huge fan of K-Beauty. The formulas are elegant and effective, while the price point typically remains reasonable. Peach & Lily is easily one of my favorite Korean skincare brands, so it only made sense that I got hooked on their eye cream. I actually love this watery texture for daytime use—it layers so nicely under my concealer." — Samantha Holender, Beauty Editor
Samantha finds that this under eye cream works well with every concealer formula.
A drugstore favorite of mine, this eye cream contains retinol and hyaluronic acid, which help the skin attract and retain moisture for improved hydration. It’s super lightweight, so it absorbs quickly into the skin—perfect for those nights when you’re short on time but still want to stick to your skincare routine. Even after a long night out, you won’t have to wait long for it to sink in.
Key Ingredients: Retinol (smoothing), hyaluronic acid (hydrating)
What We Love: Smooth texture, lightweight, absorbs quickly
What We Don’t: Small tube
Review for MC: “There’s nothing like entering a drugstore and finding great products at affordable prices. This eye cream was one of my last haul finds, and I love using it nightly—and I don’t mind sharing it with my roommates or friends who sleep over. Although it comes in a small tube (0.5 fl. oz), I’m obsessed. It’s the perfect size to pack in my carry-on for trips.” — Iman Balagam, Beauty Freelancer
Skincare routine complete after a retinol eye cream application.
Other Retinol Eye Creams We Love
Makeup artist Charlotte Tilbury knows that the secret to great makeup is even better skin, which is why we love her skincare line and gorgeous makeup products. The magic of this eye cream lies in its time-released retinol. If that sounds like beauty jargon to you, Dr. Camp explains that “time-released retinol improves tolerability and compliance.” Another benefit is that it reduces the risk of irritation and redness. Because the last thing you want is stressed skin, the formula also includes peptides, vitamin C, and vitamin E to protect and nourish the delicate eye area further.
Key Ingredients: Time-released retinol (smoothing), botanical eye-contour complex (hydrating), winter daphne stem cells extract (protecting)
What We Love: Moisturizing; lays well under makeup
What We Don’t: May be drying for some; some find the consistency too thick
Formulated with a blend of three retinols, “this product delivers an instant dose of a retinoid, with another released over time to minimize the signs of aging,” says Dr. Camp. If fine lines or crow’s feet are your main concern, this gentle retinol smooths the skin like an iron would clothing. The catch: the transformation happens over a few weeks. This product also contains marine kelp, swertia flower extract, and hyaluronic acid, so you won’t have to worry about dryness.
Key Ingredients: Retinol tri-active technology (smoothing), swertia flower extract (hydrating), hyaluronic acid (hydrating)
What We Love: Hydrating, light texture
What We Don’t: May be too strong for sensitive skin
This budget-friendly eye balm doesn’t compromise quality: it’s clinically tested, dermatologist-approved, and safe for sensitive skin. As a balm, it feels incredibly creamy on the skin—just be sure to wash your hands thoroughly before use or use a clean spatula to scoop out the product. Dr. Halim describes it as a product that can “soften fine lines and firm the under-eye area,” if that’s your main concern. And for those who spend their night doom scrolling, this balm also helps to firm the under eyes and reduce the appearance of dark circles. The secret? “This product contains granactive retinol, a less irritating form of retinol that helps reduce the texture of wrinkles and milia,” says Dr. Amin.
Key Ingredients: Granactive retinoid (smoothing), shiitake mushroom extract (strengthening), vitamin E (calming), black currant seed oil (hydrating)
What We Love: Softens fine lines; hydrating; smooths skin
What We Don’t: Some find it heavy or greasy
Some retinol eye creams can lead to sticker shock, but not this one from UK-based brand The Inkey List, known for its simple yet effective formulas. Dr. Halim is a fan, praising it as a "clean product" that’s also easy on the wallet. “It delivers good results for those in their 30s looking for preventive care, with a mild formulation consisting of glycerin, shea butter, and cetearyl olivate, which gives it a softer texture,” she says. Its delicate formula is great for sensitive skin types or those hesitant to dive into the world of retinol (I promise, it’s not as intimidating as it sounds!).
Key Ingredients: Vitalease™ Retinol (smoothing)
What We Love: Gentle; plumping; hydrating
What We Don’t: Some say product can be drying; no immediate difference
Traditional retinoids are known for being harsh on the skin, but not this eye sleeping mask from K-beauty brand Glow Recipe. It features encapsulated retinol, which is gentler on the skin. It also contains avocado and coffeeberry—ingredients that might remind you of an Erewhon smoothie, but here, they work to reduce wrinkles, hydrate the skin, and provide antioxidant protection from free radicals, respectively.
Key Ingredients: Encapsulated retinol (smoothing), avocado oil + extract (hydrating), vitamin E + C (calming and brightening), coffeeberry (brightening)
What We Love: Hydrating; non-irritating
What We Don’t: Many dislike the packaging; dries out quickly
Most of First Aid Beauty's products are formulated for sensitive skin types, including those with eczema, which is why I felt confident turning to the brand for a retinol eye cream. The under-eye area is already delicate, but as Dr. Amin explains, this formula contains encapsulated retinol, making it a great option for those with easily reactive skin. It also includes squalane, which helps lock in moisture. I've also noticed a huge difference in my puffiness—especially when I store this guy in my fridge.
Key Ingredients: Encapsulated retinol technology (smoothing), squalane (hydrating)
What We Love: Gentle formula; improves puffiness; hydrating
What We Don’t: Thin consistency
If you’re already using Eve Lom’s iconic cleansing balm, why not add another of the brand’s products to your routine? Safe for all skin types, this highly concentrated eye treatment helps smooth fine lines and trick others into thinking you’ve never had crow’s feet. Thanks to its lightweight serum texture, it absorbs quickly and makes a noticeable difference to your under-eye area.
Key Ingredients: Time retreat complex (smoothing), polysaccharide lifting active (lifting)
What We Love: Cooling applicator; firms the skin; reduces fine lines
What We Don’t: Some say that the packaging wastes too much excess product
What to Look for in a Retinol Eye Cream?
- Retinol Concentration
When shopping for retinol, it's important to choose a product specifically formulated for the under-eye area. Dr. Rabach explains that this typically means the concentration of retinol will be lower, usually around 0.1 percent to 0.5 percent, compared to retinol for the face.
Dr. Camp advises that when buying retinol eye cream, you should look for ingredients that are well-tolerated by the skin around the eye, which is traditionally more sensitive. “Retinols are less potent than retinoids and may be more suitable for use around the eyes. Consider the plant-based ingredient bakuchiol, which is often described as having similar effects to retinol but is less irritating,” he says.
- Supplementary Ingredients
Dr. Amin emphasizes the importance of looking for peptides to increase elasticity and prevent sagging, as well as antioxidants to reduce puffiness under the eyes. “I also recommend eye creams that are fragrance-free to prevent irritation around the delicate eye area. If you experience puffiness, look for caffeine as an additional ingredient,” she adds.
Dr. Rabach adds to seek out ingredients that are soothing for the skin, like peptides or hyaluronic acid, and for additional brightening ingredients like vitamins C or E.
- Packaging
“Opt for an eye cream in an airtight pump, rather than a container where you have to scoop out the cream with your fingers,” advises Dr. Rabach. If your eye cream does come in a jar, make sure you have clean hands before digging in.
Is It Safe to Use Retinol Eye Cream?
“Yes, it’s safe to use retinol eye cream,” says Dr. Rabach. She explains that retinol can be irritating, so it's important not to combine it with other active ingredients and always to apply sunscreen in the morning. “I recommend starting once a week and gradually increasing usage if your skin tolerates it without irritation. If you have dry skin, layer the retinol eye cream with a thicker moisturizer on top.”
What Are the Benefits of Retinol Eye Cream?
There are many benefits to using retinol eye cream, including improving the appearance of dark circles, boosting collagen production, and preventing fine lines. “Retinol encourages the production of collagen, a structural protein in the dermis. Collagen helps the skin maintain firmness and elasticity, which leads to fewer wrinkles and less crepey skin. If someone is prone to milia, a retinol eye cream can also help prevent this,” adds Dr. Camp.
How to Use a Retinol Eye Cream?
If it’s your first time using a retinol eye cream, start with a small amount and a low concentration, gradually increasing as your skin tolerates it. “Excessive application can cause skin irritation or clog pores, which may contribute to acne formation,” explains Dr. Camp. Dr. Amin adds, “When applying, less is more. Use a small amount and gently rub upward toward the outer corners, being careful not to get it into the eyes.” Don’t just focus on the under-eye area—crow’s feet on the sides of the eyes should also be treated with the eye cream.
Retinol eye cream should be used at night, as retinol can make skin more sensitive to the sun and is best tolerated when applied in the evening. This is why it’s essential to always apply sunscreen in the morning after using retinol.
Meet the Dermatologists
Azza Halim, MD is a board certified Anesthesiologist as well as Aesthetic Medicine, Anti-aging, and Regenerative Medicine Physician.
Brendan Camp, MD, is double board-certified in dermatology and dermatopathology and sees patients at MDCS Dermatology
Morgan Rabach, MD, is a board-certified dermatologist based in New York.
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