Depending on where you stand on eye creams—essential for some, redundant with a good face moisturizer for others—even the best eye serums might seem superfluous. But these potent formulas are anything but. Unlike rich, nourishing creams, eye serums (like face serums before them) “are typically thinner, absorb more quickly, and deliver a higher concentration of active ingredients,” says Mamina Turegano, MD, a triple-board-certified dermatologist in New Orleans. That allows them to go above and beyond mere moisture, helping to target specific concerns like puffiness, dark circles, and fine lines.
The proof is in the proverbial pudding, which focuses less on moisturizing benefits and instead highlights active ingredients like peptides, growth factors, caffeine, and brightening agents. That can make them a game-changer for those experiencing (or expecting) signs of aging around the eyes. “I often recommend an eye serum for patients who have specific treatment targets or those who find traditional eye creams too rich, particularly those with oily or acne-prone skin,” says Y. Claire Chang, MD, a board-certified dermatologist in New York City.
Vogue’s Favorite Eye Serums
If the eye cream debate raises the question of whether you can simply use your face serum around the eyes, the answer is: Sure, but you might be missing out. “Face serums often have active ingredients but may not be as specific to the eye area’s unique needs,” says Mina Amin, MD, a board-certified dermatologist in Los Angeles. Moreover, she says, the skin around the eyes is thinner and more sensitive, so it merits a dedicated formula—especially when you’re working with potent ingredients.
Eye creams can be targeted, which in turn means that the best eye serum for you depends on whether you want to address dark circles, puffiness, or budding crow’s feet. Scroll ahead to discover what the experts recommend.
