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These Are the Best Eye Creams for Getting Rid of Puffiness ASAP
Under-eye bags, it’s time for you to pack your bags.
No matter how many hours of sleep I get, I always seem to wake up with puffy eyes. And if I’ve had a few dirty martinis or indulged in a late-night salty snack... I’m bracing myself for the swollen-lid special. I’ve tried it all to fight the puff—frozen facial rollers, layers of concealer, 30-minute gua sha sessions, even intricate microcurrent devices. Ironically, the technique that works best is also the simplest: a de-puffing eye cream.
The skin around your eyes is thinner and more delicate than anywhere else on your face, which makes it the first place to show signs of fatigue, salt, alcohol, or just plain genetics. While puffiness can be caused by everything from water retention to allergies, the right eye cream can help minimize swelling and smooth the under-eye area, making you look more awake—even if you don’t feel it.
“Eye creams for puffiness often combine cooling, hydrating, and circulation-boosting ingredients,” says Dr. Jeannette Graf, a New York City-based board-certified dermatologist. Caffeine, for example, helps constrict blood vessels to reduce the fluid buildup, while hydrating heroes like hyaluronic acid and peptides plump up fine lines. But the right formula not only soothes and cools—it also improves circulation, nourishes, and strengthens the skin over time. “I love that they can give tired eyes an instant refresh while also working in the long term to keep the delicate skin around the eyes healthier,” says Dr. Graf.
To save you the trial-and-error, we’ve done the homework—tapping both board-certified derms and fellow editors—to bring you the best options. Below, take a look at the 14 best eye creams for puffiness that’ll help tired eyes look their best in no time.
Pros
- Absorbs quickly
Cons
- May not be suitable for very sensitive skin
Skinceuticals is a beauty editor-favorite brand, and this eye cream is a true powerhouse. Beyond puffiness, the product also combats other signs of aging, including crepiness, dark circles, and crows feet with “a blend of caffeine as well as Proxylane, glycyrrhetinic acid, and Matrixyl 3000. I love that it also uses a blend of optical diffusers to help disperse the light,” Dr. Garshick says.
Key ingredients: Concentrated ProxylaneTM, wild fruit flavonoid blend, Matrixyl 3000, glycyrrhetinic acid, caffeine
Size: 0.5 fl. oz.
Dermstore rating: 4.5/5 stars
An ELLE editor says: “I was an eye cream non-believer before this Skinceuticals gem came into my life. I have trouble sleeping, and my under eyes are the first place evidence of my late-night TikTok scrolling appears. With each use of this salve, my eyes appear brighter and smoother. I still get asked for my ID at bars and restaurants to this day (I’m well into my 20s), and I’m giving most of the credit to having a diligent eye care routine—and daily sunscreen, of course.”—Nerisha Penrose, beauty commerce editor
Pros
- Works well under makeup
Cons
- May take time to absorb
I know multiple beauty editors who adore U Beauty’s eye cream, and I’m not surprised. Its lightweight texture sits well under makeup, and it’s truly the Swiss army knife of eye creams—the formula’s marine plankton extract brightens, ceramides boost the skin barrier, and peptides plump and minimize the look of under eye bags.
Key ingredients: Peptides, organic stevia rebaudiana extract, beta-glucan, marine plankton extract, ceramides
Size: 0.5 fl. oz.
Amazon rating: 4.6/5 stars
An ELLE editor says: “I rarely finish an eye cream—I either find them to be too irritating or I don’t think they do much for me. I have hereditary dark circles that almost always look the same no matter what I do for them. This eye cream is one of my favorites, and I feel like it actually makes a difference for dark circles and puffiness. It’s one of the few eye creams that I’ve finished and would genuinely use again.”—Katie Berohn, ELLE beauty editor
Dr. Brandt Needles No More No More Baggage Eye De-Puffing Gel
Pros
- Works immediately
Cons
- There may be a learning curve
You may have seen this product on TikTok, and it almost seems too good to be true. But we’re here to tell you that it’s real—as the formula dries, it visibly tightens the eye area within minutes thanks to caffeine, peptides, and silicates.
Key ingredients: Caffeine, peptides, silicates, algae, plant extracts
Size: 0.5 oz.
Amazon rating: 3.8/5 stars
An Amazon reviewer says: “I ordered this in the hopes of getting rid of the bags under my eyes. Well, I applied the cream under my eyes, and it worked. The bags disappeared, and I looked 10 years younger. Great product.”
Pros
- Fast-absorbing
Cons
- May sting sensitive skin
Here’s a beloved formula that will soothe tired, puffy eyes, thanks to matcha green tea, which is both an anti-inflammatory and antioxidant-rich ingredient. Not to mention, this skin savior also includes caffeine, which comes in handy on those mornings when you didn’t get enough sleep the night before.
Key ingredients: caffeine, niacinamide, matcha green tea, ginseng, hyaluronic acid
Size: 1 fl oz.
Amazon rating: 4.3/5 stars
An Amazon reviewer says: “As much as I want to be, I am still not a morning person and need caffeine to wake up my body and face. I like this TruSkin Caffeine serum. It’s a good one to layer under my daily morning skin care. It’s lightweight, hydrating, and sinks in quickly. I feel like my skin is tighter and my eyes look brighter. You can see from the sample photo where I tested it on my hand, it makes the skin look more glowy.I would like to know more about where it is produced. The listing says "USA" but the bottle doesn’t go into detail. But overall, this is a nice serum that plays well with my skin.”
Pros
- Improves skin elasticity
Cons
- Thin texture feels less nourishing
The brand new Neutrogena Collagen Bank Reviving Eye Cream boosts collagen while de-puffing. As Dr. Graf explains, “It supports collagen production to help keep skin firm, while the hydrating ingredients help to smooth and soften the under-eye area.” The lightweight formula feels so refreshing.
Key ingredients: Peptides, niacinamide
Size: 0.5 oz.
Ulta rating: 4.7/5
An ELLE editor says: “I’ve been applying this eye cream morning and night for the past week and can already see a difference. My under-eyes are so much brighter and less puffy—even when I’m fresh out of bed. The gel texture is also so lightweight and refreshing, I actually enjoy rubbing it in.”—Emma Aerin Becker, associate beauty e-commerce writer
Pros
- Suitable for sensitive skin
- Eco-friendly packaging
Cons
- May need to wait a few minutes for formula to sink in before applying makeup
We could all use some brightening and depuffing in the morning (especially after a late night of binging our favorite shows), and this eye cream provides just that with the help of vitamin C and caffeine. Plus the ceramic tip stays cooler for longer than a metal one, and it’s super easy to wipe of and sanitize when needed.
Key ingredients: Caffeine, vitamin C, squalane
Size: 0.5 oz.
Amazon rating: 4.5/5 stars
An Amazon reviewer says: “I’ve been using this for a few weeks now, and I’m impressed! The formula is light and absorbs quickly into the skin without feeling greasy. It’s helped brighten up my under-eye area, and the caffeine gives it a slight refreshing feel. I love how it’s made with natural ingredients, and I’ve noticed a reduction in puffiness and dark circles. A little goes a long way, so this 0.5 oz. bottle lasts a while. Definitely a great addition to my skin care routine!”
Pros
- Silicone-free
- Thin texture
Cons
- Takes time to see results
“This concentrated caffeine serum can be used in the under-eye area to help reduce puffiness and brighten the skin,” says Dr. Garshick. Not everyone likes the feeling of a rich cream around their eyes; this water-based serum absorbs into the skin rapidly, delivering all of those de-puffing benefits without a heavy, greasy finish.
Key ingredients: Caffeine, epigallocatechin gallatyl glucoside
Size: 1 oz.
Nordstrom rating: 4/5 stars
A Nordstrom reviewer says: “I’m a regular user of The Ordinary products, but this is my favorite! I have tried so many products for my dark circles and puffiness, but this one leaves my under eyes feeling and looking their best. If you need a go-to for your dark circles/puffiness, go for it!”
Pros
- Cooling metal tip
Cons
- Shimmery
This eye cream uses a microcurrent-inspired formula to visibly depuff and firm with every use, and over time. But to me, the most exciting aspect of this eye cream is the metal-tip applicator, which feels deliciously cool against the skin and helps minimize puffiness in an instant. Pro tip: store it in the fridge for an extra cooling factor.
Key ingredients: Amino acids, peptides, caffeine
Size: 0.5 oz.
Sephora rating: 4.6/5
A Sephora reviewer says: “This eye cream brightens my eye instantly and the metal tip gives off that cooling effect! I love to keep it in the fridge to instantly depuff my under eyes every morning! Probably my new favorite cream!”
Pros
- Portable
- Works quickly
Cons
- Some reviewers noted that the applicator can be faulty
You don’t always have to splurge to get your hands on an effective eye cream for puffiness. This option from the drugstore diminishes the look of puffiness with hardworking ingredients caffeine, vitamin C, and mint. “The cool micro-stimulating roll-on applicator makes it so satisfying to literally roll the puffiness aside,” says Dr. Garshick.
Key ingredients: Caffeine, vitamin C, mint
Size: 0.5 fl. oz.
Amazon rating: 4.3/5 stars
An Amazon reviewer says: “The first time I used it, I stood in front of the mirror and watched it work. One of my eyes seems puffier than the other, and the one that [wasn’t] so puffy basically deflated as I watched. All I can say is this—I've been using it for less than a week now, and I won’t be without it.”
Pros
- Safe for lids and bags
Cons
- Strong scent
The Yonka Paris Phyto Contour eye cream uses rosemary oil to stimulate microcirculation, which drains fluid buildup around the eyes. The hero ingredient also provides an intense cooling effect upon application that immediately awakens the area. Meanwhile, antioxidants and peptides firm, brighten, and reduce wrinkles.
Size: 0.53 oz
Key ingredients: Rosemary oil, peptides, aloe vera, vitamin E
Dermstore rating: 4.7/5
A Dermstore reviewer says: “I love this eye cream. I use it twice a day. You can feel it working as soon as you apply it! I put a little under my eye and all over my eyelid. The tube is small, however you only need a little bit. I highly recommend. I see a big difference under my eye and with my eyelids.”
Pros
- Works in just 10 minutes
Cons
- On the pricier side
When a classic cream formula just isn't strong enough, a mask might be your solution. The Sisley Eye Contour Mask, for example, works in just 10 minutes to deeply hydrate and reduce signs of fatigue—including puffy bags and lids.
Key ingredients: Linden blossom, arnica, vitamin E
Size: 30 ml
Amazon rating: 4.6/5
An Amazon reviewer says: “This product is the best eye treatment I have tried. I need very little concealer after using this product for a month. My eyes are usually pretty dry, but this intensely moisturizes. It's really great when you are in an airplane too!”
Pros
- Lightweight texture
Cons
- May take time to see results
If you want to reap the benefits of retinol but have more sensitive or reactive skin, a bakuchiol-infused eye cream like this one is a great alternative. The formula also contains “coffeeberry extract, rich in caffeine, and lingonberry stem cells to help reduce puffiness and brighten the skin. I also love that it protects against blue light damage and oxidative stress using the lingonberry stem cells,” says Dr. Garshick.
Key ingredients: Bakuchiol, lingonberry stem cells, coffeeberry extract
Size: 0.5 fl. oz.
Amazon rating: 4/5 stars
An Amazon reviewer says: “I’ve always struggled with dark circles and puffiness under my eyes, and I’ve tried countless eye creams in the past, but nothing seemed to make a real difference. This eye cream has truly been a game changer for me, and I can’t help but rave about it. I use a small amount at night before going to sleep, and I wake up with my eyes looking refreshed and revitalized! After using it consistently for a few weeks, I’ve noticed a look in reduced dark circles and puffiness under my eyes.”
Pros
- Pleasant scent
Cons
- May take time to see results
According to Dr. Mraz, this formula “de-puffs, hydrates, and brightens the eye area as well as proactively prevents signs of aging with long term use. It’s the perfect combination of preventative and reparative.” Another plus is its ceramic tip applicator, which feels cool to the touch and also helps to take down any puffiness.
Key ingredients: K oxide, hyaluronic acid, haloxyl
Size: 0.5 oz.
Amazon rating: 4.2/5 stars
An Amazon reviewer says: “I used to work in dermatology for several years, and this was the only eye cream we all used, including the doctors. It’s pricey but worth the money. The smell is also amazing and feels good while rubbing it in. The quality is 100 percent.”
Pros
- Fragrance-free
- Sensitive skin-friendly
Cons
- Some may dislike jar packaging
Exhaustion leads to puffiness and dark circles, and this eye cream takes care of both concerns. The star of the formula is vitamin C, which is known for its ability to brighten hyperpigmentation and dark spots as well as neutralize aging free radicals.
Key ingredient: Vitamin C
Size: 0.5 fl. oz.
Amazon rating: 4.6/5 stars
An Amazon reviewer says: “This is my second jar of this product, and I do like the way it makes my eyes feel. It is lightweight and stays on without getting sticky or bothering my eyes. It makes the eye area feel soft and lasts. It does work for helping to de-puff around the eyes as well as improving some of the lines and wrinkles.”
Meet the Experts
Dr. Deanne Mraz is a board-certified dermatologist and the president and co-founder of Modern Dermatology in Westport, CT.
Dr. Marisa Garshick is an New York City-based board-certified dermatologist at MDCS Dermatology.
Dr. Jeannette Graf is a board-certified dermatologist and Assistant Clinical Professor of Dermatology at Mt Sinai School of Medicine
What are some other ways to get rid of puffiness?
Beyond the best eye creams for puffiness, there are some tips and tricks that can help as well. “Other ways to reduce puffiness include applying cold compresses or chilled spoons to the eyes to constrict blood vessels and reduce swelling. Staying hydrated, reducing salt intake, and ensuring adequate sleep can also help prevent puffiness,” Dr. Garshick says. Our experts also point out that utilizing a gua sha or jade roller can help with lymphatic drainage, which can decrease puffiness as well. “Always work your way out from the center of your face and then down the neck with your approach,” adds Dr. Mraz.
Can you get rid of eye puffiness permanently?
Although it will be difficult if the puffiness is genetic, if your puffiness is due to environmental or lifestyle factors, you may actually be able to get rid of it for good. “Consistent use of eye creams, a healthy diet, proper hydration, adequate sleep, and avoiding allergens can help minimize puffiness,” says Dr. Garshick. “In some cases, medical treatments like lasers, microneedling, injectables including PRP or fillers, radiofrequency treatments, or surgery may offer more long-lasting results,” she adds. For example, “sometimes, puffiness is actually tied in with excess skin around the eyes area, and would be better treated surgically with a blepharoplasty,” says Dr. Mraz.
Why Trust ELLE Beauty
As a leading publisher of fashion, lifestyle, and beauty content, ELLE.com is committed to highlighting the best products in various categories by personally testing the latest and most innovative products, interviewing countless experts, and vetting customer-loved items. For this piece, beauty writers Carol Lee and Emma Aerin Becker consulted expert dermatologists to learn more about eye creams for puffiness. They also tested them out and combed through reviews for top-rated products, assessing each one based on their features and customer evaluations.
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