I'm an Aesthetician—These Are the Eye Creams That Actually Work on Dark Circles

Dermalogica’s Biolumin-C Serum has long been one of my favourite (and in my opinion, most effective) vitamin C serums, so I was very intrigued and excited when they launched an eye version. Thankfully, it didn’t disappoint. The texture is lightweight and silky, sinking in fast without leaving any residue. It’s become a go-to for brightening and smoothing my under-eyes because yes, it actually works.

I’ve gone through several pots of this over the years, and every time I come back to it, I’m reminded why it’s such a cult favourite. The best thing about it is the soft-focus brightening pigments—it doesn’t just promise to brighten over time, it actually makes you look more awake the second you put it on. Sure, the effect is mostly cosmetic and not a long-term fix, but when your dark circles are genetic and stubbornly resistant to topical treatments, that kind of instant payoff is honestly a game-changer. It also layers beautifully under makeup, which is always a bonus.

This is the one to reach for when your eye area is looking more lined and wrinkled. It’s powered by vitamin C and hyaluronic acid, so you get that rare combination of firming and hydrating in one formula. I’ve found it makes a visible difference to the appearance of fine lines and crow’s feet with consistent use—the whole area feels smoother, more elastic, and just a bit more lifted. It’s not the most instantly gratifying, but if you’re in it for long-term results, this is a solid investment.

This is one of those products I instinctively reach for on mornings after poor sleep or a late night—when puffiness is unavoidable and concealer alone won’t cut it. While it won’t erase dark circles overnight, it’s brilliant for de-puffing and calming, especially if you keep it in the fridge. It’s lightweight, layers beautifully under makeup and is surprisingly effective for the price.

This is the eye treatment I recommend most often to clients with mature skin or who are noticing early signs of ageing around the eyes. The formula is packed with clinically-backed ingredients—a retinoid, niacinamide and vitamin C—but works in a way that feels gentle, not irritating. It’s more serum than cream, which means it sinks in fast and doesn’t skimp on results: think smoother texture, softened fine lines and a brighter overall eye area. Like I said, multitasking eye products aren't always that great, but this is an exception—it does a lot without shouting about it.

This is one of those eye creams I always circle back to when clients ask about dark spots, sun damage, or pigmentation around the eyes. With five forms of vitamin C and a cocktail of peptides and soothing ingredients, it targets hyperpigmentation gently but effectively—perfect for brightening without irritation. The texture is buttery but not heavy, and I’ve found it layers beautifully under makeup. If you’re consistent, this really helps to fade stubborn marks and even out tone in a way that feels low-maintenance but has high impact.

A lot of vitamin C eye creams can feel too lightweight or leave the under-eye area feeling tight, but this has a richer, creamier texture that dry skin types will love. It’s packed with vitamin C for brightening, of course, but also includes replenishing ingredients like peptides and hyaluronic acid that give it a comforting, cushiony feel. I’ve recommended this to clients with dry, crepey under-eyes and they always comment on how much softer and smoother their skin feels after just a few uses.

This is one of those products that makes you'll actually look forward to applying. The solid balm texture glides on effortlessly thanks to its smooth balm format—perfect for those rushed mornings when you still want to feel like you’re doing something good for your skin. It gives an instant hit of hydration, and while the vitamin C works on brightening over time, the subtle tint helps to mute dark circles immediately. Honestly, the applicator alone makes it one of the most enjoyable formulas I’ve tried.

If you have sensitive skin around your eyes, this gel cream is a total game changer. It delivers a gentle yet effective dose of vitamin C without any irritation or stinging, which can be rare in brightening eye products. The lightweight, soothing texture absorbs quickly and leaves the under-eye feeling refreshed and hydrated—perfect for those with delicate, easily-reactive skin.

Granted, this one is expensive, but in my opinion the potent and luxurious formula totally warrants the high price point. The texture is rich but melts effortlessly into the skin, delivering a burst of hydration and gentle brightening benefits. It’s packed with Japanese botanicals that soothe and nourish, making it the kind of product you can apply both morning and night.

For anyone who wants to brighten and refresh their under-eye area without breaking the bank, this one’s a real (underrated) gem. It delivers a solid dose of vitamin C to tackle dullness and uneven tone, all in a lightweight formula that’s easy to layer. While it may not deliver results as quickly or as visibly as other products in this list, it proves that you don’t always need a luxury price tag to find an effective, everyday vitamin C eye cream.