Beauty
Eye creams for every budget
Photo courtesy of Geneviève Caron Image by: Photo courtesy of Geneviève Caron
Beauty
Eye creams for every budget
1. Garnier Lift Anti-Wrinkle Firming Eye Contour Cream, $14.99
The claim: Perfume-free and made from natural ingredients, this cream firms skin, reduces wrinkles and helps skin regain its vitality.
Tester says: "I like the small tube – it's easy to get just the right amount of product out – and the cream smells good and has a silky smooth texture. You only need a small amount, and it absorbs very quickly. I find it very gentle and easier on my skin than other products I've tried. It moisturizes well and I've noticed a positive effect on the dark rings under my eye."
Available at drugstores
2. Marcelle Hydra-C Complexe Eye Contour Gel-Cream, $19.95
The claim: A fresh and nongreasy cream that reduces dark circles and puffiness and helps prevent fine lines.
Tester says: "This cream absorbs quickly when patted on, without a shiny finish. The skin under my eyes is left moisturized and there's no tightness, like I get from other creams. And the best thing? The pump dispenses exactly enough for both eyes, meaning no waste."
Available at drugstores
3. Dr. Hauschka Daily Revitalizing Eye Cream, $49.95
The claim: Made of all-natural ingredients like beeswax, avocado oil and mango butter, this light, smooth and refreshing cream absorbs so quickly you can apply eye makeup immediately after using it.
Tester says: "This cream absorbed really well into my skin, which has suddenly turned dry at the age of 29. It effectively moisturizes my delicate eye area, helping to soften and smooth the fine lines that are slowly creeping in. I even tried it on a dry spot on my hairline and it worked well there too. I like the easy-to-use tube format."
Available at health food stores and certified estheticians across Canada; 1-800-663-6226
4. Avalon Organics Lavender Revitalizing Eye Gel, $19.95
The claim: Brightens, hydrates and calms the skin; reduces the appearance of lines, dark circles and puffiness.
Tester says: "I love the light lavender scent of this product. The clear gel absorbed quickly and didn't feel heavy. It's packaged in a small bottle with a pump; one push of the pump dispenses enough gel for both eyes. This is a great choice for people who, like me, are looking for a gel over a cream."
Available at select retailers; visit avalonorganics.com for stores
5. Fruits & Passion Défense Eye Contour Treatment, $30
The claim: This light eye cream containing Chardonnay grape extracts is rich in antioxidants and helps firm and tone the eye area.
Tester says: "I liked this eye cream's fruity scent. It absorbs fairly easily, and you only need a little so it goes a long way. It helped keep my winter-dry skin moisturized and relieved tightness."
Available at Fruits & Passion boutiques across Canada and at www.fruits-passion.com
6. Kiehl's Creamy Eye Treatment with Avocado, $35
The claim: Gently moisturizes the eye area without irritating sensitive eyes.
Tester says: "This eye cream had a very light scent. It absorbs and moisturizes well and doesn't migrate into your eyes. You don't need a lot to get great coverage, and the tub packaging means you'll be able to use every last bit. It really brightens – no matter how tired or dull my eyes looked, a little of this in the morning really brightened up the area and even concealed some darkness."
Available at Kiehl's stores across Canada; www.kiehls.com
Page 1 of 3 7. Crabtree & Evelyn Daytime Revitalizing Eye Gel, $31.95, and Overnight Eye Rejuvenator, $36.95
The claim: The daytime gel soothes, tightens, depuffs and helps fade undereye circles; the overnight rejuvenator firms skin and softens wrinkles.
Tester says: "I didn't notice a smell (a good thing) and the texture was perfect. Application was easy – the creams absorbed well and only a little was needed. The skin around my eyes became smoother and was comfortable, not tight or itchy."
Available at Crabtree & Evelyn stores across Canada; www.crabtree-evelyn.com
8. Aveda Tourmaline Charged Eye Creme, $45
The claim: Brightens dark circles, reduces puffiness and energizes skin.
Tester says: "I need anti-puffy eye help most when I travel and I like the portability of the small green squeezable tube. The lid fits tightly to prevent leaks and with the squeeze tube it was easy to control how much cream was dispensed. The cream was cooling – always a nice feeling for tired eyes – with a subtle scent. I used the cream at night and noticed a reduction in fine lines after only a couple of weeks. I also applied it a couple of times in the morning after travel and noticed a reduction in puffiness."
Available at Aveda Experience Centers; visit aveda.com for stores
9. Dermalogica Multivitamin Powerfirm for eye and lip area, $66
The claim: Firms and smooths skin, reduces lines and protects against damage.
Tester says: "I love the smell and texture of this product. It goes on nicely, and doesn't make your eyes feel tight like many of the other products I've tried in the past. I'm 33 and feel like my skin gets a lot of exposure due to my lifestyle (I love being outdoors). I've tried many eye creams and have never had much success. This product actually does work! I've been using it for three months and really notice a difference."
Available at select retailers; www.dermalogica.ca
10. Origins A Perfect World for Eyes Firming Moisture Treatment with White Tea, $37.50
The claim: Brightens, firms and smooths skin, lightens dark circles and helps prevent wrinkles.
Tester says: "This is one of the best eye creams I've ever used. It's goes on lightly and absorbs quickly, and brightens and smooths the skin under my eyes. I would definitely buy it again. My only caveat is that if your skin is dry, you may need to layer it with a heavier cream – I find it perfect for my slightly oily skin when the weather is warmer, but not quite enough in the depths of winter."
Available at select The Bay locations and at origins.com
11. Chanel Précision Rectifiance Intense Eye Retexturizing Line Correcting Eye Cream, $72
The claim: A fragrance-free cream that goes on smoothly and fights the signs of aging.
Tester says: "This eye cream comes in a small, pretty glass jar. There was no strong smell, which I appreciated – it's good for people with sensitivity to perfume. The texture was thick and smooth to the touch – and not cold, which is really nice! My skin felt smoother compared to the other eye cream I usually use, and it has gotten firmer as well. The best part was that I had no allergic reaction to it. My skin is really sensitive, so that's no small feat!"
Available at Chanel beauty counters
12. Elizabeth Arden Ceramide Plump Perfect Eye Moisture Cream SPF 15, $58
The claim: Fights puffiness and reduces the appearance of fine lines while protecting the eye area from the aging effects of UV rays.
Tester says: "I found the smell and texture of this eye cream very pleasing. I used a small amount each application and felt that it moisturized my eye area well, and I appreciate that the product contains sunscreen. I especially liked the cream's ability to blend and moisturize without feeling greasy."
Available at select drugstores and department stores
Page 2 of 3 13. The Body Shop Vitamin E Eye Cream, $18
The claim: Moisturizes skin and helps limit the appearance of fine lines, dark circles and puffiness.
Tester says: "Don't be fooled by the small package – just the tiniest drop of this eye cream does the trick. It rubs into the skin easily and moisturizes nicely. The cooling effect really makes your skin feel refreshed and revitalized. This eye cream does not leave your skin feeling greasy, another bonus. It rubs in and dries to a nice matte finish."
Available at The Body Shop stores and online at thebodyshop.ca
14. Guerlain Orchidée Impériale Exceptional Complete Care Eye and Lip Cream, $187
The claim: Orchid extract fights signs of aging and makes skin more firm, supple and smooth.
Tester says: "The packaging is both attractive and functional – it's easy to get at the product and it's travel-friendly. I liked that there was very little smell. The eye cream has a thick texture but isn't greasy, and it soaks right into your skin. It left my skin feeling soft and it's a nice base before applying eye makeup."
Available at department stores across Canada and Guerlain boutiques
15. Bobbi Brown Hydrating Eye Cream, $50
The claim: Minimizes fine lines and absorbs quickly for easy makeup application.
Tester says: "This cream is in a small tub, which makes it easy to get the product out. It doesn't have a smell and the texture is thick and creamy. You just need a tiny bit (about the size of a grain of rice or two) for it to blend in well and absorb quickly. It made the skin around my eyes feel soft and moisturized."
Available across Canada at Holt Renfrew
16. Dr. Andrew Weil for Origins Plantidote Mega-Mushroom Eye Serum, $52.50
The claim: Calms skin and reduces puffiness and dark circles.
Tester says: "This is my new all-time favourite. It has powerful moisturizing abilities that soften the fine lines I'm developing around my eyes and relieve any tightness I feel in the eye area (especially in the dry, dry winter months). And the stylish green glass packaging looks cute on my vanity. I only wish it came in a tub rather than a pump dispenser so I could get every drop out with ease."
Available at select The Bay locations and at origins.com
17. Burt's Bees Radiance Eye Creme with Royal Jelly, $24.99
The claim: Nourishes skin and reduces fine lines.
Tester says: "This cream is packed with moisture, perfect for dry winter air. I especially like to use it at night and notice that my skin is less dehydrated come morning. And I love that it smells real, not chemically."
Available at major drug, grocery, health and gift stores across Canada; www.burtsbees.ca
18. Prescriptives Intensive Rebuilding Eye Cream, $90
The claim: Restores firmness, smooths skin and minimizes dark circles and puffiness.
Tester says: "This cream absorbed well and I didn't need a lot to moisturize. It also tightened the skin really well – it was great for treating puffy eyes. It also diminished my dark circles. One thing I appreciated was that it didn't leave the eye area looking shiny; it just gave the skin a more supple appearance."
Available across Canada at Holt Renfrew
Did we miss your favourite eye cream? Share your reviews by adding a comment below.
Read more:
Travel beauty: 12 essentials
BB creams and CC creams: The latest innovations
Makeup: Which items should you save or splurge on?
Page 3 of 3
The claim: Perfume-free and made from natural ingredients, this cream firms skin, reduces wrinkles and helps skin regain its vitality.
Tester says: "I like the small tube – it's easy to get just the right amount of product out – and the cream smells good and has a silky smooth texture. You only need a small amount, and it absorbs very quickly. I find it very gentle and easier on my skin than other products I've tried. It moisturizes well and I've noticed a positive effect on the dark rings under my eye."
Available at drugstores
2. Marcelle Hydra-C Complexe Eye Contour Gel-Cream, $19.95
The claim: A fresh and nongreasy cream that reduces dark circles and puffiness and helps prevent fine lines.
Tester says: "This cream absorbs quickly when patted on, without a shiny finish. The skin under my eyes is left moisturized and there's no tightness, like I get from other creams. And the best thing? The pump dispenses exactly enough for both eyes, meaning no waste."
Available at drugstores
3. Dr. Hauschka Daily Revitalizing Eye Cream, $49.95
The claim: Made of all-natural ingredients like beeswax, avocado oil and mango butter, this light, smooth and refreshing cream absorbs so quickly you can apply eye makeup immediately after using it.
Tester says: "This cream absorbed really well into my skin, which has suddenly turned dry at the age of 29. It effectively moisturizes my delicate eye area, helping to soften and smooth the fine lines that are slowly creeping in. I even tried it on a dry spot on my hairline and it worked well there too. I like the easy-to-use tube format."
Available at health food stores and certified estheticians across Canada; 1-800-663-6226
4. Avalon Organics Lavender Revitalizing Eye Gel, $19.95
The claim: Brightens, hydrates and calms the skin; reduces the appearance of lines, dark circles and puffiness.
Tester says: "I love the light lavender scent of this product. The clear gel absorbed quickly and didn't feel heavy. It's packaged in a small bottle with a pump; one push of the pump dispenses enough gel for both eyes. This is a great choice for people who, like me, are looking for a gel over a cream."
Available at select retailers; visit avalonorganics.com for stores
5. Fruits & Passion Défense Eye Contour Treatment, $30
The claim: This light eye cream containing Chardonnay grape extracts is rich in antioxidants and helps firm and tone the eye area.
Tester says: "I liked this eye cream's fruity scent. It absorbs fairly easily, and you only need a little so it goes a long way. It helped keep my winter-dry skin moisturized and relieved tightness."
Available at Fruits & Passion boutiques across Canada and at www.fruits-passion.com
6. Kiehl's Creamy Eye Treatment with Avocado, $35
The claim: Gently moisturizes the eye area without irritating sensitive eyes.
Tester says: "This eye cream had a very light scent. It absorbs and moisturizes well and doesn't migrate into your eyes. You don't need a lot to get great coverage, and the tub packaging means you'll be able to use every last bit. It really brightens – no matter how tired or dull my eyes looked, a little of this in the morning really brightened up the area and even concealed some darkness."
Available at Kiehl's stores across Canada; www.kiehls.com
Page 1 of 3 7. Crabtree & Evelyn Daytime Revitalizing Eye Gel, $31.95, and Overnight Eye Rejuvenator, $36.95
The claim: The daytime gel soothes, tightens, depuffs and helps fade undereye circles; the overnight rejuvenator firms skin and softens wrinkles.
Tester says: "I didn't notice a smell (a good thing) and the texture was perfect. Application was easy – the creams absorbed well and only a little was needed. The skin around my eyes became smoother and was comfortable, not tight or itchy."
Available at Crabtree & Evelyn stores across Canada; www.crabtree-evelyn.com
8. Aveda Tourmaline Charged Eye Creme, $45
The claim: Brightens dark circles, reduces puffiness and energizes skin.
Tester says: "I need anti-puffy eye help most when I travel and I like the portability of the small green squeezable tube. The lid fits tightly to prevent leaks and with the squeeze tube it was easy to control how much cream was dispensed. The cream was cooling – always a nice feeling for tired eyes – with a subtle scent. I used the cream at night and noticed a reduction in fine lines after only a couple of weeks. I also applied it a couple of times in the morning after travel and noticed a reduction in puffiness."
Available at Aveda Experience Centers; visit aveda.com for stores
9. Dermalogica Multivitamin Powerfirm for eye and lip area, $66
The claim: Firms and smooths skin, reduces lines and protects against damage.
Tester says: "I love the smell and texture of this product. It goes on nicely, and doesn't make your eyes feel tight like many of the other products I've tried in the past. I'm 33 and feel like my skin gets a lot of exposure due to my lifestyle (I love being outdoors). I've tried many eye creams and have never had much success. This product actually does work! I've been using it for three months and really notice a difference."
Available at select retailers; www.dermalogica.ca
10. Origins A Perfect World for Eyes Firming Moisture Treatment with White Tea, $37.50
The claim: Brightens, firms and smooths skin, lightens dark circles and helps prevent wrinkles.
Tester says: "This is one of the best eye creams I've ever used. It's goes on lightly and absorbs quickly, and brightens and smooths the skin under my eyes. I would definitely buy it again. My only caveat is that if your skin is dry, you may need to layer it with a heavier cream – I find it perfect for my slightly oily skin when the weather is warmer, but not quite enough in the depths of winter."
Available at select The Bay locations and at origins.com
11. Chanel Précision Rectifiance Intense Eye Retexturizing Line Correcting Eye Cream, $72
The claim: A fragrance-free cream that goes on smoothly and fights the signs of aging.
Tester says: "This eye cream comes in a small, pretty glass jar. There was no strong smell, which I appreciated – it's good for people with sensitivity to perfume. The texture was thick and smooth to the touch – and not cold, which is really nice! My skin felt smoother compared to the other eye cream I usually use, and it has gotten firmer as well. The best part was that I had no allergic reaction to it. My skin is really sensitive, so that's no small feat!"
Available at Chanel beauty counters
12. Elizabeth Arden Ceramide Plump Perfect Eye Moisture Cream SPF 15, $58
The claim: Fights puffiness and reduces the appearance of fine lines while protecting the eye area from the aging effects of UV rays.
Tester says: "I found the smell and texture of this eye cream very pleasing. I used a small amount each application and felt that it moisturized my eye area well, and I appreciate that the product contains sunscreen. I especially liked the cream's ability to blend and moisturize without feeling greasy."
Available at select drugstores and department stores
Page 2 of 3 13. The Body Shop Vitamin E Eye Cream, $18
The claim: Moisturizes skin and helps limit the appearance of fine lines, dark circles and puffiness.
Tester says: "Don't be fooled by the small package – just the tiniest drop of this eye cream does the trick. It rubs into the skin easily and moisturizes nicely. The cooling effect really makes your skin feel refreshed and revitalized. This eye cream does not leave your skin feeling greasy, another bonus. It rubs in and dries to a nice matte finish."
Available at The Body Shop stores and online at thebodyshop.ca
14. Guerlain Orchidée Impériale Exceptional Complete Care Eye and Lip Cream, $187
The claim: Orchid extract fights signs of aging and makes skin more firm, supple and smooth.
Tester says: "The packaging is both attractive and functional – it's easy to get at the product and it's travel-friendly. I liked that there was very little smell. The eye cream has a thick texture but isn't greasy, and it soaks right into your skin. It left my skin feeling soft and it's a nice base before applying eye makeup."
Available at department stores across Canada and Guerlain boutiques
15. Bobbi Brown Hydrating Eye Cream, $50
The claim: Minimizes fine lines and absorbs quickly for easy makeup application.
Tester says: "This cream is in a small tub, which makes it easy to get the product out. It doesn't have a smell and the texture is thick and creamy. You just need a tiny bit (about the size of a grain of rice or two) for it to blend in well and absorb quickly. It made the skin around my eyes feel soft and moisturized."
Available across Canada at Holt Renfrew
16. Dr. Andrew Weil for Origins Plantidote Mega-Mushroom Eye Serum, $52.50
The claim: Calms skin and reduces puffiness and dark circles.
Tester says: "This is my new all-time favourite. It has powerful moisturizing abilities that soften the fine lines I'm developing around my eyes and relieve any tightness I feel in the eye area (especially in the dry, dry winter months). And the stylish green glass packaging looks cute on my vanity. I only wish it came in a tub rather than a pump dispenser so I could get every drop out with ease."
Available at select The Bay locations and at origins.com
17. Burt's Bees Radiance Eye Creme with Royal Jelly, $24.99
The claim: Nourishes skin and reduces fine lines.
Tester says: "This cream is packed with moisture, perfect for dry winter air. I especially like to use it at night and notice that my skin is less dehydrated come morning. And I love that it smells real, not chemically."
Available at major drug, grocery, health and gift stores across Canada; www.burtsbees.ca
18. Prescriptives Intensive Rebuilding Eye Cream, $90
The claim: Restores firmness, smooths skin and minimizes dark circles and puffiness.
Tester says: "This cream absorbed well and I didn't need a lot to moisturize. It also tightened the skin really well – it was great for treating puffy eyes. It also diminished my dark circles. One thing I appreciated was that it didn't leave the eye area looking shiny; it just gave the skin a more supple appearance."
Available across Canada at Holt Renfrew
Did we miss your favourite eye cream? Share your reviews by adding a comment below.
Read more:
Travel beauty: 12 essentials
BB creams and CC creams: The latest innovations
Makeup: Which items should you save or splurge on?
Page 3 of 3
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