8 of the best eye creams for dry midlife skin

As we move through life, our skin needs start to change and as a result, the delicate area around the eyes can often demand extra care. But, is it actually worth investing in eye creams – or can we just use our regular moisturiser?

The answer isn’t as straightforward as it might seem. That’s why we’ve enlisted a team of skincare experts to help navigate the world of eye creams…

Do we really need an eye cream?

So, let’s get to it. What exactly are the benefits of using a targeted eye cream or serum, and is it worth investing in one?

“Eye creams can be a valuable addition to many skincare routines,” says Joyce Carslaw, founder of Smarter Skincare. “The skin around the eyes is notably delicate and thin, making it more susceptible to issues like dryness, fine lines and puffiness. As a result, this specific area requires targeted care to address its unique needs effectively.”

Dr Deepali Mistra Sharp, GP partner and menopause specialist, agrees, but notes that many people do think that eye creams are simply overpriced moisturisers in smaller pots.

“It’s a perception fueled by marketing that capitalised on the idea of a ‘specialist’ product, making consumers sceptical,” she says. “Without understanding the unique formula of eye creams, people may dismiss them as unnecessary luxury items.”

But that isn’t always the case: “Eye creams often have a higher concentration of active ingredients, such as retinoids, peptides, caffeine, or specialised humectants that offer targeted benefits,” explains Joyce. “Plus, both the texture and delivery system of eye creams tend to be optimised to be more gentle and effective for the delicate area, ensuring ingredients penetrate properly without causing irritation.”

The best eye creams for midlife skin 2024

By Sarah London Miracle Eye Cream, £40

Lightweight, fragrance-free and hypoallergenic, this eye cream is clinically proven to support healthy skin barrier function. It works to hydrate, nourish and brighten eyes, providing instant comfort upon application.

Medik8 Crystal Retinal Ceramide Eye, £42

Bolstered with retinal (a vitamin A derivative that works 11 times faster than traditional retinol), it promises to reduce puffiness and visibly brighten dark circles – all without causing irritation.

Naturium Multi-Peptide Eye Cream, £18

This gentle but hydrating eye cream smooths fine lines and wrinkles while nourishing and hydrating the area. It’s suitable for all skin types and uses a multi-peptide blend to support natural collagen production.

Lancome Advanced Genifique Light Pearl, £49.50

Formulated with caffeine and arginine, this serum targets fine lines and wrinkles while also working to re-energise eyes. Plus, it comes complete with a built-in cryo-pearl applicator that instantly cools skin and depuffs the eye area.

Clarins Total Eye Lift, £59

A bestseller for good reason, this gel-like formula is enriched with organic harungana – a natural retinol alternative – that stimulates collagen production, along with horse chestnut extract to brighten dark, shadowy areas while organic albizia extract reduces sagging.

Facetheory Firming Eye Cream, £31

Lightweight and hardworking, this cream is bolstered with a blend of peptides, 1.5% hexylresorcinol and vitamin C to help firm and brighten the eye contour area while simultaneously improving texture.

Caudalie Resveratrol-Lift Firming Eye Gel Cream, £39

As well as easing the signs of ageing, this cream harnesses the power of vegan collagen and quinoa extract to reduce puffiness, improve firmness and elasticity while also easing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.

CeraVe Skin Renewing Eye Cream, £23

Deeply hydrating and powered by a blend of active ingredients, including peptides, caffeine and hyaluronic acid, this lightweight cream targets fine lines, wrinkles, skin texture and dullness for a brighter, more hydrated appearance.

Words: Lucy Partington

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All prices correct at time of publishing.