Fine lines, loss of elasticity, crow’s feet, and other signs of aging are inevitable (thanks, collagen production decline) but the best retinol eye cream can slow down the process—should you want to, of course. Adding retinoids (a.k.a. the umbrella term used to describe any vitamin A derivative including retinol) to your skin-care routine is one measure that almost every dermatologist highly recommends. “Retinoids work by increasing collagen production as well as speeding up the rate of skin cell turnover, which makes them very effective at minimizing fine lines and wrinkles,” says Shari Marchbein, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in New York City. And they can be especially helpful in an eye cream.
Our Top Retinol Eye Creams
You don’t have to spend a ton of money on eye creams for wrinkles and dark circles, either. Sure, there are a few prestige options that dermatologists swear by, but there are also several affordable options that you can easily access at your local drugstore. Ahead, find the best retinol eye creams at every price point, straight from the pros.
Frequently Asked Questions
Best Overall: Beauty of Joseon Revive Eye Serum: Ginseng + Retinal
Beauty of Joseon
Revive Eye Serum
Why it’s worth it: Beauty of Joseon’s Revive Eye Serum: Ginseng + Retinal is making the rounds on TikTok—and we get it. Not only is this an Allure Korea 2023 Best of Beauty editor’s pick, but it also has an accessible price point, especially considering that it’s formulated with stabilized retinal to minimize irritation while smoothing fine lines and texture. Ginseng is at the heart of this formula, which boosts circulation, collagen production, and brightness—so all in all, this duo is a winning one. And no, that’s not a typo—we really do mean retinal. Retinal is one step closer to active retinoic acid than retinol, meaning it can deliver collagen-boosting, line-smoothing benefits more efficiently. In fact, “retinal is 10 times more potent than retinol,” Noah Levit, MD, a board-certified dermatologist in Connecticut, previously told Allure. Still, this gentle formula minimizes the risk of peeling or irritation.
Tester feedback from commerce editor Sarah Han
“By the time I get around to eye cream at night, I’m ready to dive into bed—so this serum-like texture is perfect because it absorbs so quickly, and more importantly, my undereyes look a tad brighter the next morning. At 32, my skin is still pretty taut, so I haven’t seen fine lines pop up yet, but I like to think that this eye cream is helping my skin stay firm and hydrated. Prevention is key, folks!” —Sarah Han, commerce editor
- Key ingredients: ginseng root extract (10%), retinal liposome (2%)
- Who it’s for: people looking to address dullness and fine lines
- Consistency: gel-like serum
- Fragrance-free: yes
Best for Sensitive Skin: Avène RetrinAL Eyes Advanced 3-in-1 Eye Cream
Avène
RetrinAL Eyes Advanced 3-in-1 Eye Cream
Why it’s worth it: Avène notably formulates fragrance-free skin care, so if you have sensitive eyes (after all, the undereye area is the thinnest and most delicate on the face), rest assured that you won’t have to worry about peeling or irritation. “RetrinAL Eyes Advanced 3-in-1 Eye Cream combines retinaldehyde, that stabilized version of retinol, for collagen production with hyaluronic acid for moisture and dextran sulfate as a de-puffing agent,” says Melissa Levin, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in New York City and founder of Entiere Dermatology.
- Key ingredients: retinaldehyde (also known as retinal), hyaluronic acid, dextran sulfate, thermal spring water
- Who it’s for: people with sensitive skin who might not react well to retinol
- Consistency: cream
- Fragrance-free: yes
Best Drugstore: RoC Retinol Correxion Line Smoothing Eye Cream
RoC
Retinol Correxion Line Smoothing Eye Cream
Why it’s worth it: The RoC Retinol Correxion Line Smoothing Eye Cream is a three-time Allure Best of Beauty Award winner, and, no surprise, it has the derms to back it. Both Dr. Marchbein and Fatima Fahs, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in Canton, Michigan, recommend it for targeting fine lines. It also happens to be one of the most budget-friendly picks on this list. The texture is lightweight and silky, layers nicely under makeup, and helps improve skin firmness over time.
“I experience a lot of undereye puffiness, thanks to insomnia and an inconsistent sleep schedule, but I’ve seen an overall reduction in puffiness since I started using this cream. Despite how little sleep I might’ve gotten the night before, I wake up with refreshed-looking eyes.” —Han, commerce editor
- Key ingredients: retinol, vitamin E, mineral complex of zinc, copper, magnesium (which aids in the formation of collagen)
- Who it’s for: everyone, including retinol beginners
- Consistency: cream
- Fragrance-free: yes
Most Travel-Friendly: Elizabeth Arden Retinol Ceramide Capsules Line Erasing Night Serum
Elizabeth Arden
Retinol Ceramide Capsules Line Erasing Night Serum
Why it’s worth it: Another pick from Dr. Marchbein, Elizabeth Arden Retinol Ceramide Capsules Line Erasing Night Serum comes in individual, single-use capsules that protect the formula from light and air—helping maintain its potency. “Sensitive or unstable ingredients, like vitamin C and retinol, work well in this type of delivery system,” Ron Robinson, a cosmetic chemist based in New York City and founder of BeautyStat, previously explained. Each capsule contains the perfect, pre-measured dose, so there’s no second-guessing involved.
- Key ingredients: encapsulated retinol, ceramides, camellia leaf extract, sunflower seed oil
- Who it’s for: frequent travelers with carry-on restrictions or skin-care lovers who crave consistency
- Consistency: silky gel
- Fragrance-free: yes
Best Prescription-Strength: Musely The Eye Serum
Why it’s worth it: If you weren’t aware, Musely makes it simple to order prescription-level formulas (including those with tretinoin) through a board-certified dermatologist without ever leaving your home. “Tretinoin, also known as retinoic acid, doesn’t need to go through any conversions, so it is readily available and faster-acting” than other retinoids, Sheila Farhang, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in Tucson, Arizona and founder of Avant Dermatology & Aesthetics, has previously told Allure. Basically, this stuff is potent. However, while the actual retinoid is strong, this particular formula contains a very mild 0.001% concentration of tretinoin and is cushioned by skin-soothing ingredients, such as inflammation-reducing niacinamide and bisabolol (also known as chamomile) and tacrolimus, an ingredient commonly used to treat atopic dermatitis that also increases the production of collagen to smooth out the look of wrinkles.
- Key ingredients: tretinoin (0.001%), tacrolimus (0.025%), caffeine (1%), hyaluronic acid (2%), niacinamide (2%), vitamin C (2%), bisabolol (2%)
- Who it’s for: people who are concerned with sunken eye bags and crow’s feet
- Consistency: lightweight, serum-like
- Fragrance-free: yes
Best Customized: Agency by Curology Eye Formula
Agency by Curology
Eye Formula
Why it’s worth it: Do you really need your skin care to be customized? If you like the idea of having a licensed dermatologist on speed dial, then you’ve come to the right place with Agency by Curology’s Eye Formula. One of its key ingredients is tretinoin, a gold-standard retinoid known for boosting collagen, smoothing fine lines, and enhancing skin texture. Applied carefully under the eyes (in a formula designed specifically for that delicate area), it helps soften crow’s feet, fade discoloration, and brighten tired-looking skin over time. And since it’s prescription-based, your provider can adjust the strength as your skin adapts. It’s smart, potent, and anything but cookie-cutter.
- Key ingredients: tretinoin, caffeine, dexpanthenol, green tea extract, glycerin
- Who it’s for: anyone concerned with fine lines, dark circles, or dullness around the eyes
- Consistency: cream-gel
- Fragrance-free: yes
Best Brightening: ZO Skin Health Eye Brightening Crème
ZO Skin Health
Eye Brightening Crème
Why it’s worth it: Yes, it’s pricey, but ZO Skin Health’s Eye Brightening Crème earns its keep. “Dark circles and puffiness are two of the most common concerns I hear about, and this is part of my personal regimen,” says Sarah Sung, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in Seattle. The formula pairs retinol, which speeds up cell turnover to fade pigmentation, with hydrolyzed sericin, a silk-derived protein that soothes inflammation and boosts hydration. “Together, they help visibly reduce discoloration and swelling while supporting collagen health,” she adds. The satiny texture layers well under makeup, and according to Dr. Sung, “leaves the undereye area looking brighter and well-rested.” That luxe, silky texture does more than feel nice. One of its star ingredients, hydrolyzed sericin—a protein derived from silk—helps calm inflammation, boost hydration, and support collagen production for firmer, smoother under-eyes.
- Key ingredients: retinol, shea butter, squalane, arnica montana extract, hydrolyzed sericin
- Who it’s for: people with dull, tired eyes
- Consistency: gel-cream
- Fragrance-free: yes
Best for Mature Skin: DRMTLGY HPR Eye Cream
Why it’s worth it: DRMTLGY has built its reputation on dermatologist-developed formulas that fit into busy, real-life routines, and HPR Eye Cream is a case in point. It stars Hydroxypinacolone Retinoate (HPR), a retinoid ester that skips the extra conversion steps retinol has to go through and goes straight to work. Translation: You still score those collagen-boosting, wrinkle-smoothing perks, just with a gentler, less irritating touch that’s perfect for the delicate eye area. Add in peptides, “which may help assist in collagen production, so important for thin skin like the eyelid area,” says Alicia Zalka, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in Connecticut, and you’ve got a gentle yet effective formula that brightens, firms, and smooths in one swipe. This way, it tackles multiple concerns without slowing down your day.
- Key ingredients: hydroxypinacolone retinoate, allantoin, coconut oil
- Who it’s for: people with wrinkles, crow’s feet, or dark circles
- Consistency: gel-cream
- Fragrance-free: yes
Best for Crow’s Feet: HydroPeptide Retinol Eye Renewal
HydroPeptide
Retinol Eye Renewal
Why it’s worth it: Why settle for one type of retinol when you can have three? HydroPeptide’s Retinol Eye Renewal uses a smart, multi-retinoid approach. “It has retinol, glyceryl diretinoate, and retinyl linoleate that are effectively released into their active form for advanced delivery,” says Pooja Rambhia, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in New York City. “This allows for both immediate and time-released benefits. The retinol provides direct anti-aging action, while the glyceryl diretinoate and retinyl linoleate offer gentler, sustained release,” she says. The encapsulation system ensures “delivers the retinoids gradually, so you’re still getting maximum collagen stimulation and cellular turnover to improve fine lines and texture—just in a gentler way,” she says. Add in firming peptides and the brand’s brightening Haloxyl, it smooths, lifts, and brightens all at the same time.
- Key ingredients: retinoid complex, peptides, glycerin
- Who it’s for: people with fine lines, puffiness, or crow’s feet
- Consistency: gel-cream
- Fragrance-free: yes
Best for Sensitive Skin: La Roche-Posay Redermic R Eyes Retinol Eye Cream
La Roche-Posay
Redermic R Eyes Retinol Eye Cream
Why it’s worth it: La Roche-Posay has always had a knack for making dermatologist-level skin care that sensitive skin can handle. Redermic R Eyes Retinol Eye Cream contains pure retinol designed for easily irritated skin. “While the exact percentage isn’t disclosed, it’s likely around 0.1–0.3% and is paired with caffeine to reduce puffiness and thermal spring water for its anti-inflammatory benefits,” says Dr. Rambhia. “Pure retinol requires two enzymatic conversions to become active retinoic acid, but La Roche-Posay’s formulation includes stabilizing ingredients that help maintain retinol’s potency, while the classic thermal spring water helps buffer potential irritation,” she says. This gentle yet effective formula smooths crow’s feet, illuminates the entire eye area, and reduces puffiness, making it a win for even the most retinol-shy eyes.
- Key ingredients: retinol, caffeine, glycerin, dimethicone, thermal spring water
- Who it’s for: people with sensitive skin
- Consistency: cream
- Fragrance-free: yes
Frequently Asked Questions
Is retinol good for undereyes?
Using an eye cream spiked with retinol is an excellent idea for anyone hoping to reduce the appearance of fine lines, as well as to help prevent them from forming in the future, according to Dr. Marchbein.
Why not just regular retinol under your eyes? Typically, they tend to be more intense in terms of strength, which could lead to irritation and dryness around the delicate skin that surrounds your eyes. What’s more, retinol can also induce symptoms of dry eye when placed too close to the eye itself, which Tanya Gill, OD, an optometrist at Oakland Vision Center Optometry in Oakland, California, previously noted. (Another important tip: Always wear sunscreen with at least SPF 30 the morning after.)
Is vitamin C or retinol better for undereyes?
Why not both? Consider using vitamin C during the day and retinol in the evening. Dr. Fahs is a fan of vitamin C, since it’s an antioxidant powerhouse that helps fade dark circles and brighten the eye area. It protects against environmental damage and premature aging, while retinol comes in to address existing issues such as fine lines and wrinkles.
Should you put retinol under your eyes every night?
As with a typical retinol cream, you might want to start with a retinol eye cream once or twice a week and slowly increase the frequency. Once your skin adjusts to it, you can use it every night.
Meet the experts
- Fatima Fahs, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in Canton, Michigan, and founder of Dermy Doctor
- Sheila Farhang, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in Tucson, Arizona, and founder of Avant Dermatology & Aesthetics
- Tanya Gill, OD, an optometrist at Oakland Vision Center Optometry in Oakland, California, and CEO of We Love Eyes
- Melissa Levin, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in New York City and founder of Entiere Dermatology
- Shari Marchbein, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in New York City
- Ron Robinson, a cosmetic chemist based in New York City and founder of BeautyStat
- Sarah Sung, MD, a board-certified dermatologist of The Perq based in Seattle
How we test and review products
When Allure tests a product, our editors look at it from every angle in an effort to best serve you. We review ingredients, scrutinize brand claims, and, when necessary, examine peer-reviewed scientific and medical studies. In addition to testing each and every product that’s included in each and every review, we rely on experts who shape their fields, including dermatology, cosmetic chemistry, and medicine, to help us vet the ingredients and formulas.
