When it comes to fighting the signs of aging, retinol stands out as a true champion. This powerful ingredient works wonders on fine lines, wrinkles, dark spots and uneven skin tone. How? By boosting cell turnover and encouraging collagen production, says celebrity esthetician Kristin Gunn, BS, CLT, LMA.
To help you find the best retinol eye cream, we've gathered insights from dermatologists, aestheticians and even an ophthalmologist. They've shared tips on what to look for in a retinol eye cream, how to carefully use it with other skin care products and the best ways to apply it.
Below, you'll find a curated list of Shop TODAY's top picks, featuring expert-recommended options that will brighten and tighten your under eyes.
What is retinol eye cream? | What is a retinoid? | Best retinol eye creams, according to experts | Editor-favorite retinol eye cream | Other retinol eye creams to shop | What to consider while choosing retinol eye cream | How to apply retinol eye cream | Retinol eye cream with other skin care products | How we chose | Meet the experts
What is retinol eye cream?
Unlike conventional eye creams that mainly provide hydration and antioxidant benefits, retinol eye creams utilize vitamin A as the star ingredient to improve the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles and under-eye skin texture.
Tatiyana Canady, a licensed esthetician, explains that “the cellular turnover process we get from retinol helps to improve skin tone and texture, smooth lines and wrinkles, create collagen and clear acne flare ups." She continues, "It also helps brighten and even pigmentation with continued use.”
Because of its remarkable properties, retinol has become a popular addition to moisturizers, serums and eye creams. But here's the catch: this ingredient can be pretty strong, especially for the delicate skin around your eyes. That's why it's crucial to choose a retinol eye cream carefully (or any eye cream with a retinoid component, that is).
What is a retinoid?
Before we dive into retinol eye creams, we can't forget that retinol is a retinoid — and "retinoid" is "an umbrella term that covers all ingredients that are derived from vitamin A, including retinol," board-dermatologist Dr. Geeta Yadav previously told us.
Dr. Gary Linkov, MD, a double board-certified facial plastic surgeon, also tells us that retinoids “serve as pre-cursors to retinoic acid, the active form of vitamin A that our skin can effectively utilize.”
While shopping for under-eye products, you'll notice that there are retinol eye creams and retinal eye creams available. Retinal (yes, with an "a" instead of an "o") is short for retinaldehyde, which is also a retinoid (albeit, a stronger one than retinol).
Why? Because retinal is further along in the process to becoming retinoic acid, per the National Library of Medicine.
Best retinol eye creams, according to experts
Formulated with retinal: Beauty of Joseon Revive Eye Serum
- Anti-inflammatory properties
- Under $20
- May cause irritation
Type of retinoid: Retinal | Added ingredients: Ginseng, ceramides, peptides | Ophthalmologist-tested: N/A
This affordable retinal eye cream is a must-have for K-beauty fans, offering both value and efficacy, according to Linkov.
“This is [an] interesting option for a budget product (less than $20) that shows that inexpensive doesn’t have to mean basic,” he says. “It contains ginseng root extract (anti-inflammatory), niacinamide, peptides, ceramides..." However, this product contains retinal, which, again, is stronger than retinol, according to the brand.
However, some users report a slight yellow tint upon application, so thorough blending is recommended for best results. You’ll also want to be extra careful if you have sensitive skin while using this, as some reviewers also point out that it can cause irritation to more irritable skin.
Timeless favorite: RoC RETINOL CORREXION® Line Smoothing Eye Cream
- Budget friendly
- Opthamologist-tested
- Non-comedogenic
- May not help with puffiness
Type of retinoid: Retinol | Added ingredients: Glycerin | Ophthalmologist-tested: Yes
For those in search of an eye cream that delivers clinical-level results without breaking the bank, Gunn recommends this non-comedogenic eye cream.
She explains, "RoC has been a trusted name in retinol products for years, known for their ability to deliver results while minimizing skin irritation." The addition of glycerin is yet another perk, as it provides extra hydration to prevent dryness often associated with retinol use.
However, while it is particularly effective against dark circles, lines and wrinkles, some user reviews suggest that it may not be the best option for addressing puffiness.
A gentle choice: Paula's Choice CLINICAL Ceramide-Enriched Firming Eye Cream
- No fragrances or dyes
- Prone to pilling
Type of retinoid: Retinol | Added ingredients: Vitamin C, peptides, ceramides | Ophthalmologist-tested: N/A
If you need a retinol eye cream that's easy on sensitive skin, Linkov points to Paula's Choice eye cream as a top contender. Its mild formulation and moisturizing properties make it particularly well-suited for retinol novices.
“This is a low dose, moisturizing retinol for those who do well with multiple activities,” he explains. “It ticks a lot of boxes at a great price point" and "has a lower dose of retinol (0.01%)." Linkov continues that it includes three "gentler derivatives" of vitamin C, along with two peptides.
Caffeine infused: La Roche-Posay Redermic R Eyes Retinol Eye Cream
- Free of fragrances and dyes
- Results may be slow
Type of retinoid: Retinol | Added ingredients: Glycerin, caffeine, La Roche-Posay Thermal Spring Water | Ophthalmologist-tested: No
While recommending this eye cream, Linkov tells us, “It is fragrance- and dye-free, and includes caffeine, which can help target puffiness, inflammation and dark circles." He also says that it "uses glycerin as the main moisturizing agent.”
Nevertheless, this eye cream, like others, demands consistent application over time. Having said that, users should be prepared to incorporate it into their daily routine for several months before expecting to see noticeable results.
Worth the splurge: Zo Skin Health Eye Brightening Crème
- Helps brighten dark circles
- Not as hydrating as others
Type of retinoid: Retinol | Added ingredients: Anti-inflammatory botanicals, exclusive antioxidants, kojic acid | Ophthalmologist-tested: N/A
Despite its high price point, medical aesthetician Andrea Bailey, OAS, CLT, CME, considers this eye cream to be among the top-tier retinol eye creams available on the market.
She praises its effectiveness, stating, "This renowned product effectively addresses fine lines, wrinkles and skin crepiness, while also diminishing puffiness around the eyes. Remarkably, every patient I've recommended this sophisticated eye cream to has experienced significant improvement in dark circles."
Beyond retinol, Bailey suggests that the inclusion of proprietary antioxidants, biomimetic proteins, sericin, kojic acid, carnitine, coenzyme A, caffeine and botanical anti-inflammatory agents also makes this eye cream a winner.
However, proper application is crucial for optimal results. She recommends, "Apply this product once daily around the entire eye area. It's also essential to use a medical-grade, chemical-free sunscreen on this area daily, regardless of whether you plan to be outdoors or not."
Best retinol eye cream, according to an editor
Editor favorite: Murad Retinal ReSculpt Eye Treatment
- Moisturizing
- Very gentle
- Small amount of product
Type of retinoid: Retinal | Added ingredients: Shea butter, oat kernel extract, gentian root extract | Ophthalmologist-tested: N/A
Camryn Privette, a production coordinator at Shop TODAY, recommends this retinal eye cream from Murad. She says, "This new launch from Murad is the real deal! During the summer, I definitely get less sleep than usual and this treatment helps with dark circles, wrinkles, you name it since it's formulated with good 'ole retinal. It's great for all skin types too which is always a plus!"
Other retinol eye creams to shop
Infused with shea butter: No7 Pure Retinol Eye Cream
- Effective budget option
- Too strong for some shoppers
Type of retinoid: Retinol | Added ingredients: Shea butter | Ophthalmologist-tested: N/A
If you're looking for a retinol eye cream for under $20, this option from No7 is a great choice. It's formulated with shea butter to help with moisture, and it's even dermatologist-approved (per the brand).
Trusted brand: Neutrogena Retinol Eye Cream
- Absorbs "quickly," per buyer
- Doesn't feel greasy
- Some experienced irritation
Type of retinoid: Retinol | Added ingredients: Hyaluronic acid | Ophthalmologist-tested: N/A
This fan-favorite Neutrogena under-eye cream is formulated with hyaluronic acid, and it has over 14,000 (!) five-star ratings.
Hydrating pick: Avene Eau Thermale RetrinAL Eyes
- Works well with sensitive skin
- Mixed reviews on the scent
Type of retinoid: Retinal | Added ingredients: Hyaluronic acid | Ophthalmologist-tested: N/A
This under-eye cream, which is formulated with retinal, comes in an easy-to-pump bottle. Along with hyaluronic acid, this product is also designed with dextran sulfate to help lessen dark circles.
What to consider while choosing a retinol eye cream
When selecting a retinol eye cream, it's essential to consider several key factors regarding added ingredients, formulation and ophthalmologist testing.
Added ingredients
Linkov emphasizes that an effective eye cream should contain more than just retinol. He advises choosing products that combine retinol with other beneficial ingredients such as antioxidants, peptides, lipids and ceramides.
However, he also cautions against certain ingredients: "It's best to avoid fragrances, certain dyes and parabens in your skin care products."
Formulation and concentration
"Formulation of retinol eye products plays a crucial role in determining how effectively ingredients are absorbed and utilized by the delicate skin around the eyes," explains board-certified dermatologist Dr. Marilyn Zabielinski, MD, FAAD. "Products designed for the eye area require special consideration due to the thinness and sensitivity of the skin in this region."
Zabielinski adds, "When incorporating retinol into eye products, formulators must carefully balance its concentration with soothing and hydrating ingredients to ensure efficacy without causing undue irritation. This is why many retinol eye products also contain ingredients like hyaluronic acid or ceramides to support the skin barrier."
Furthermore, to avoid irritation, Linkov says "choosing an eye cream with a lower retinol concentration and more humectants can be helpful." He continues, "You also should opt for a product containing 0.01% retinol, and then gradually build your way up."
Ophthalmologist testing
Ophthalmologist testing can also be valuable when selecting a retinol eye cream, as it verifies a product's safety and efficacy for use around the eyes.
However, Linkov cautions that individual responses to products can vary, even if it is expert-approved. "Even if a formula is deemed safe for use around the eyes, it doesn't guarantee that you'll respond well to it," he explains.
How to apply retinol eye cream
Retinol eye creams don't require reapplication, but should always be applied to clean skin. Canady recommends, "Use your ring finger (also known as the fourth finger) for application, as it exerts less pressure and causes minimal tugging on the delicate under-eye area."
As with all products, retinol eye products usually require time to show results. However, if you experience irritation from a retinol product, particularly around the eyes, Linkov says it's important to discontinue use immediately and wait for the irritation to subside before reintroducing the product at a lower concentration (or with less frequent application).
"Both your lower and upper eyelids play vital roles in eye function," he cautions. "Irritating this delicate tissue can impair functionality and potentially lead to more serious issues."
Retinol eye cream with other skin care products
Incorporating retinol eye creams into your skin care routine is generally straightforward, but it's important to be careful when you first start using them. While these creams work well with many other products, they may interact with certain active ingredients, especially exfoliating acids like AHAs and BHAs.
To reduce the chance of skin irritation, it's best to use your retinol eye cream on different days than your exfoliating products. Canady recommends, "Begin by applying the retinol eye cream every other night or just twice a week. As your skin gets used to it, you can slowly increase how often you use it.”
It's also important to note that retinol may increase your skin's sensitivity to sunlight. Canady emphasizes the importance of applying a broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30 every morning when using retinol-based eye creams. “This protective measure is essential because retinol can heighten your skin's susceptibility to sun-induced damage,” she says.
How we chose
To choose the best retinol eye cream, Shop TODAY interviewed a handful of skin care experts and an ophthalmologist who gave us insight on ingredients, usage and more. They also recommended their go-to retinol eye creams that are effective, yet gentle.
Meet the experts
- Kristin Gunn, BS, CLT, LMA, is a celebrity esthetician and owner of Halcyon Skincare and Beaux Medspa.
- Tatiyana Canady, LE, CHN, is a licensed esthetician and owner of Aurum Aesthetic Atelier, a skin clinic located in Columbia, Maryland.
- Dr. Brian Boxer Wachler, MD, is a board-certified ophthalmologist and medical reviewer at All About Vision.
- Dr. Marilyn Zabielinski, MD, FAAD, is a board-certified dermatologist based in Miami, Florida.
- Andrea Bailey, OAS, CLT, CME, is a medical esthetician at Elase Med Spa.
- Dr. Gary Linkov, MD, is a double board-certified facial plastic surgeon based in New York City.