BYRDIE: THE 18 BEST EYE CREAMS FOR A WELL-RESTED LOOK

The thin, delicate skin around the eyes requires an eye cream to protect against environmental damage from UV rays, pollution, and to diminish signs of aging. A good eye cream also treats puffiness and dark circles.

Board-certified dermatologist Naissan O. Wesley, MD recommends looking for anti-aging ingredients like retinol, peptides, and vitamin C; plumping ingredients like hyaluronic acid; and ingredients that tamp puffiness, like caffeine. A good formula should not cause irritation to the delicate, thin skin around the eyes.

We went to work and tried some top-rated products that cater to a range of skin types, concerns, and budgets. Our testers used these eye creams for weeks at a time, reviewing each formula's texture and feel, ingredient list, and how well it lived up to its claims. We then combined these results with our own research and tapped a dermatologist for their expert recommendations.

Ahead, find the best eye creams with active ingredients.

A hero product from this luxury, clinical-grade line, this brightening and lifting eye cream is designed for day wear, with a soft focus diamond powder that adds tinted sheen. You can use on its own, or as a makeup base, beneath concealer. The hydrating formula contains ceramides and hyaluronic acid to plump and lift skin, while caffeine, pomegranate and green tea extract target puffiness.

Active Ingredients: Ceramides, hyaluronic acid, caffeine, squalane | Benefits: Hydrates, de-puffs, lifts, brightens | Size: 0.5 fluid ounces | Byrdie Clean: No | Cruelty-free: Yes