Tired of those stubborn dark circles making you look perpetually exhausted? You’re not alone! Dark circles are a common skincare concern, and finding an effective solution that doesn’t break the bank can feel like a quest. While the beauty industry constantly introduces new innovations, many of the top contenders for the best drugstore eye cream for dark circles 2017 are still highly relevant and beloved today. These budget-friendly heroes prove that you don’t need to splurge to achieve brighter, more refreshed-looking eyes.
In this article, we’re taking a look back at some of the standout drugstore eye creams from 2017 that were making waves for their ability to tackle puffiness, fine lines, and, of course, those pesky dark circles. We’ve rounded up 10 fantastic options, highlighting their unique benefits and why they’re still worth considering for your skincare routine. Get ready to discover your next holy grail eye cream!
Understanding Dark Circles: What Causes Them?
Before diving into the product reviews, let’s quickly touch on why dark circles appear. They can be caused by various factors, including genetics, lack of sleep, dehydration, thinning skin that reveals blood vessels underneath, allergies, and sun exposure. An effective eye cream will often target multiple aspects, using ingredients that help brighten, hydrate, and strengthen the delicate skin around your eyes.
Our Top Picks for the Best Drugstore Eye Cream for Dark Circles 2017
Here’s a closer look at the eye creams that stood out:
RoC Retinol Correxion Under Eye Cream for Dark Circles &…
If you’re looking for a powerful anti-aging solution that also targets discoloration, RoC’s Retinol Correxion Under Eye Cream is a classic for a reason. In 2017, and even now, this cream was celebrated for its use of retinol, a gold-standard ingredient for skin renewal. It’s designed to gently but effectively address the three key signs of eye aging: puffiness, dark circles, and wrinkles, making your eyes appear visibly younger and more awake.
- Key Features:
- Combines RoC Retinol with a unique mineral complex.
- Hypoallergenic and gentle enough for daily use.
- Targets puffiness, dark circles, and wrinkles.
- Clinically proven to rejuvenate delicate under-eye skin.
- Pros:
- Effective anti-aging properties thanks to retinol.
- Addresses multiple eye concerns simultaneously.
- Dermatologist-recognized for effectiveness.
- Visible results in reducing signs of aging.
- Cons:
- Retinol can cause initial sensitivity; start slow.
- Requires consistent use for best results.
- User Impressions: Many users rave about the noticeable reduction in fine lines and the overall brightening effect this cream delivers. They appreciate its powerful yet gentle formula, often noting significant improvements over time.
See it on Amazon here
6% Caffeine Eye Cream for Dark Circles – Rapid Wrinkle…
For those mornings when your eyes just refuse to wake up, this 6% Caffeine Eye Cream was a fantastic find. Its high concentration of caffeine makes it a standout choice for rapidly tackling under-eye puffiness and dark circles by boosting microcirculation. Paired with 1% retinol, it wasn’t just a quick fix; it was also working behind the scenes to smooth out fine lines and improve skin elasticity.
- Key Features:
- High-performance 6% caffeine formula to target puffiness and dark circles.
- Includes 1% retinol to diminish fine lines and improve skin elasticity.
- Innovative cooling applicator for soothing precision and enhanced absorption.
- Featherlight, fast-absorbing, and non-greasy formula for all skin types.
- Compact and travel-friendly design.
- Pros:
- Provides instant awakening and refreshing effect for tired eyes.
- Dual action: immediate puffiness/dark circle reduction and long-term anti-aging.
- Cooling applicator feels great and helps with product delivery.
- Suitable for all skin types, including sensitive.
- Cons:
- Retinol content might still require a patch test for very sensitive skin.
- “Rapid wrinkle” claim can vary greatly by individual.
- User Impressions: Reviewers frequently highlight how quickly this cream de-puffs and brightens their under-eyes. The cooling applicator is a particular favorite, making application feel like a refreshing mini-massage.
See it on Amazon here
Good Molecules Yerba Mate Wake Up Eye Gel – Hydrating…
Good Molecules Yerba Mate Wake Up Eye Gel brought a fresh, clean approach to combating tired eyes. This gel was a go-to for many who sought a lightweight yet potent formula. Its star ingredient, antioxidant-rich Yerba Mate, works tirelessly to protect and nourish the delicate skin, while caffeine and hyaluronic acid team up to reduce puffiness and hydrate, leaving eyes looking plump and bright.
- Key Features:
- Formulated with antioxidant-rich, sustainably sourced Yerba Mate.
- Contains caffeine and acetyl tetrapeptide-5 to reduce swelling and puffiness.
- Hyaluronic acid for intense hydration and plumping.
- Vegan, fragrance-free, and cruelty-free.
- Gentle enough for all skin types with a pH of 5.2.
- Pros:
- Provides an instant refreshing and invigorating feeling.
- Effectively reduces puffiness and signs of fatigue.
- Hydrates and plumps the skin, minimizing fine lines.
- Clean beauty option, free from harsh ingredients.
- Cons:
- Gel texture might not be rich enough for very dry skin types.
- Results for very severe dark circles might be moderate.
- User Impressions: Customers love the lightweight, non-sticky feel of this gel. They often mention its ability to quickly depuff and make their eyes look more awake, especially first thing in the morning.
See it on Amazon here
CeraVe Eye Repair Cream, Under Eye Cream For Puffiness…
CeraVe has always been a dermatologist-loved brand, and their Eye Repair Cream definitely made a mark as a reliable and effective solution for under-eye concerns. This cream stood out for its use of three essential ceramides, hyaluronic acid, and niacinamide, working together to restore the skin’s natural barrier while hydrating and soothing. It’s a fantastic example of a solid, no-frills best drugstore eye cream for dark circles 2017 that truly delivers.
- Key Features:
- Formulated with hyaluronic acid for moisture retention.
- Contains niacinamide to soothe skin.
- Features three essential ceramides (1, 3, 6-II) to restore skin barrier.
- Multi-Vesicular Emulsion (MVE) technology for lasting hydration.
- Developed with dermatologists and ophthalmologist-tested.
- Pros:
- Excellent for strengthening the delicate skin barrier.
- Provides continuous, lasting hydration.
- Non-greasy, fast-absorbing, and gentle formula.
- Helps reduce puffiness and brightens the under-eye area.
- Cons:
- Might not offer rapid dramatic results for severe dark circles.
- More focused on repair and hydration than aggressive anti-aging.
- User Impressions: Users with sensitive skin particularly praise this cream for being non-irritating and incredibly hydrating. Many report seeing a significant reduction in puffiness and a more even skin tone around their eyes.
See it on Amazon here
RONKIE Eye Cream for Dark Circles: Under Eye Cream with…
For convenience and targeted application, the RONKIE Eye Cream in a stick format was a unique and popular option. This stick brought together a powerful quartet of caffeine, retinol, collagen, and hyaluronic acid, making it a comprehensive solution for both immediate brightening and long-term anti-aging. Its mess-free application made it a favorite for on-the-go touch-ups.
- Key Features:
- Contains Caffeine, Retinol, Collagen, and Hyaluronic Acid.
- Convenient stick format for easy, mess-free application.
- Targets dark circles, puffy bags, fine lines, and wrinkles.
- Designed to nourish and hydrate the delicate eye area.
- Travel-friendly and suitable for daily eye care.
- Pros:
- Portable and very easy to apply, perfect for travel.
- Combines multiple anti-aging and hydrating ingredients.
- Helps reduce puffiness and brighten the under-eye area.
- Hydrates and smooths skin, diminishing fine lines.
- Cons:
- Some users might prefer a traditional cream or gel texture.
- Retinol content should be introduced gradually for sensitive skin.
- User Impressions: Customers love the unique stick applicator, finding it incredibly handy and hygienic. They often notice a quick reduction in puffiness and a refreshed look, making it a staple in their morning routine.
See it on Amazon here
Retinol Eye Cream – Eye Cream for Dark Circles,…
This Retinol Eye Cream offered a potent yet gentle approach to eye care, making it a strong contender for the best drugstore eye cream for dark circles 2017. With an optimized 4% retinol, it aimed to deliver significant anti-aging benefits, like boosting collagen and fading fine lines, without the usual irritation. Its multi-effect formula, including hyaluronic acid, peptides, and caffeine, ensured comprehensive care for dullness, swelling, and dark circles.
- Key Features:
- Contains 4% optimized retinol for gentle yet effective anti-aging.
- Multi-effect formula with hyaluronic acid, peptides, and caffeine.
- Promotes collagen production and accelerates cell renewal.
- Mild, non-irritating formula, free of artificial essence and dyes.
- Lightweight texture, rapid absorption, and recommended for night use.
- Pros:
- High concentration of retinol with reduced irritation.
- Addresses multiple concerns: wrinkles, dullness, puffiness, dark circles.
- Deeply nourishes and provides long-lasting hydration.
- Suitable for sensitive skin due to slow-release retinol technology.
- Cons:
- Requires nighttime application for optimal absorption.
- First-time retinol users should gradually increase frequency.
- User Impressions: Users appreciate the gentle nature of this retinol cream, noting visible improvements in skin firmness and a reduction in fine lines without the usual retinol-associated redness or dryness.
See it on Amazon here
Olay Eyes Ultimate Eye Cream for Dark Circles, Wrinkles…
Olay has always been a staple in drugstore skincare, and their Ultimate Eye Cream for Dark Circles, Wrinkles & Puffiness was a true all-in-one marvel. In 2017, it was celebrated for its multi-tasking abilities and color-correcting technology, which provided an instant brightening effect. Formulated with key ingredients like B3 (Niacinamide), Peptides, and Pigments, it worked to fortify skin’s natural moisture barrier while visibly reducing signs of fatigue.
- Key Features:
- All-in-one formula fighting wrinkles, puffy eyes, and dark circles.
- Opaque, pink cream with a hint of concealer to blend with all skin tones.
- Formulated with B3 (Niacinamide), Peptides, and Pigments.
- Hydrates and restores eyes from the first use.
- Olay’s color-correcting technology for instant brightness.
- Pros:
- Provides immediate brightening and concealing effect.
- Targets multiple signs of aging and fatigue.
- Rich, hydrating formula for lasting moisture.
- Often compared favorably to much more expensive eye creams.
- Cons:
- The tint might not perfectly match all skin tones for complete coverage.
- Some users prefer an un-tinted product for night use.
- User Impressions: Many users absolutely swear by Olay’s Ultimate Eye Cream, often calling it a “game-changer” for its immediate brightening and smoothing effects. The light tint is frequently praised for providing subtle coverage while the cream works its magic.
See it on Amazon here
RoC Derm Correxion Retinol Eye Repair Dark Circle Cream…
Another powerhouse from RoC, the Derm Correxion Retinol Eye Repair Dark Circle Cream focused on a unique approach to dark circles: targeting the four underlying shades of discoloration. Developed with dermatologists, this advanced formula combined RoC’s Patented Retinol with Niacinamide, Resveratrol, and Proxygen. It also featured a cooling precision tip, making it a luxurious yet affordable option from the 2017 market.
- Key Features:
- Targets four shades of under-eye discoloration (grey, brown, red, blue/purple).
- Combines RoC Patented Retinol, Niacinamide, Resveratrol, and Proxygen.
- Cooling precision tip massages away signs of fatigue.
- Clinically proven results, with visible reduction in fatigue signs in 1 week.
- Dermatologist & Ophthalmologist tested, fragrance-free, paraben-free, hypoallergenic.
- Pros:
- Comprehensive approach to various types of dark circles.
- Cooling applicator enhances application and depuffing.
- Potent anti-aging ingredients for overall eye area improvement.
- Gentle and suitable for sensitive skin.
- Cons:
- Requires consistent use to see significant improvement in discoloration.
- The specialized tip might not be preferred by all users.
- User Impressions: Users appreciate the innovative approach to color correction and the soothing feel of the cooling tip. They often report a brighter, more rested appearance, with gradual improvements in the intensity of their dark circles.
See it on Amazon here
The INKEY List Caffeine Eye Cream, Reduce Eye Puffiness…
The INKEY List burst onto the scene with a focus on powerful, single-ingredient solutions, and their Caffeine Eye Cream quickly became a fan favorite. This lightweight yet potent cream, highly regarded in 2017 and beyond, was clinically proven to improve under-eye puffiness and dark circles, often showing results from the very first use. Beyond caffeine, it included Matrixyl 3000 Peptide to reduce fine lines and Albizia Julibrissin Bark Extract to brighten.
- Key Features:
- Clinically proven to reduce under-eye puffiness and dark circles.
- Contains caffeine for oxidative protection and reducing puffiness.
- Matrixyl 3000 Peptide works to reduce fine lines.
- Albizia Julibrissin Bark Extract visibly brightens under-eyes.
- Lightweight, hydrating, and suitable for all skin types, including sensitive.
- Pros:
- Provides instant cooling and depuffing effects.
- Addresses both dark circles and fine lines.
- Lightweight and fast-absorbing, perfect under makeup.
- Affordable and effective, aligning with “best drugstore eye cream for dark circles 2017” criteria.
- Cons:
- Might not be hydrating enough for very dry under-eyes on its own.
- For very deep-set dark circles, results may be subtle.
- User Impressions: Many users hail this as their go-to for tired eyes, praising its immediate depuffing ability and how it makes them look instantly more awake. It’s often recommended for its straightforward effectiveness and value.
See it on Amazon here
6% Caffeine Eye Cream for Dark Circles & Puffiness, 1%…
This eye cream combined the best of both worlds: a high concentration of caffeine for immediate relief and 1% retinol for long-term benefits. Its innovative cooling 360° roller applicator was a standout feature, providing a refreshing massage that boosted serum absorption and helped reduce morning puffiness. It was praised as a thoughtful solution for those seeking both instant gratification and sustained improvement in their under-eye area.
- Key Features:
- 6% caffeine formula for revitalized eyes and improved microcirculation.
- 1% retinol to smooth fine lines, wrinkles, and enhance skin elasticity.
- Cooling 360° roller for maximum absorption and refreshing massage.
- Lightweight, non-greasy, fast-absorbing formula for all skin types.
- Compact and travel-friendly design for use at home or on the go.
- Pros:
- Offers immediate depuffing and energizing effects.
- Retinol content provides long-term anti-aging and firming benefits.
- Unique roller applicator enhances experience and effectiveness.
- Suitable for both men and women.
- Cons:
- Retinol can cause initial sensitivity, so patch testing is advised.
- Some may find the roller applicator dispenses too much product if not careful.
- User Impressions: Users frequently commend the cooling roller for its soothing effect and how it helps the product sink in beautifully. They report significant improvements in both puffiness and the overall brightness of their under-eye area.
See it on Amazon here
FAQ: Your Burning Questions About Drugstore Eye Creams
Still got questions about finding the perfect eye cream for those dark circles? We’ve got answers!
Q1: How do drugstore eye creams compare to high-end ones for dark circles?
A: Surprisingly well! Many drugstore eye creams contain the same active ingredients (like retinol, caffeine, hyaluronic acid, and niacinamide) as their luxury counterparts, often in similar concentrations. The main differences might be in packaging, texture, and the inclusion of patented complexes, but for core efficacy, drugstore options can be incredibly powerful and are often a fantastic value.
Q2: What ingredients should I look for in an eye cream for dark circles?
A: Look for:
* Caffeine: For puffiness and to constrict blood vessels, reducing the appearance of dark circles.
* Retinol/Retinoids: To stimulate collagen, thicken thin skin, and reduce fine lines, which can make dark circles less prominent.
* Hyaluronic Acid: For intense hydration, plumping the skin.
* Niacinamide (Vitamin B3): To brighten skin tone and improve skin elasticity.
* Vitamin C: A powerful antioxidant that can brighten and protect.
* Peptides: To support collagen production and improve skin firmness.
* Ceramides: To strengthen the skin barrier and lock in moisture.
Q3: Can eye cream completely eliminate dark circles?
A: While eye creams can significantly reduce the appearance of dark circles by brightening, hydrating, and firming the skin, complete elimination isn’t always possible, especially if they’re genetic or very severe. However, consistent use of a good eye cream can make a dramatic difference and leave your eyes looking much more refreshed.
Q4: How often should I apply eye cream?
A: Most eye creams are designed for daily use, both morning and night. Applying in the morning can help reduce puffiness and prep the skin for makeup, while nighttime application allows active ingredients to work with your skin’s natural regeneration process. Always follow the specific product instructions.
Q5: When is the best time to apply eye cream in my skincare routine?
A: Apply eye cream after cleansing and toning, but before your facial serum or moisturizer. This allows the targeted ingredients to absorb directly into the delicate eye area without being diluted or blocked by heavier products.
Q6: Can eye cream help with puffiness as well as dark circles?
A: Absolutely! Many eye creams are formulated to tackle both concerns simultaneously. Ingredients like caffeine are excellent for depuffing by constricting blood vessels, while hydrating ingredients can reduce the shadowed appearance caused by dehydration.
Q7: What causes dark circles in the first place, and can I prevent them?
A: Dark circles can be caused by genetics, lack of sleep, dehydration, sun exposure, allergies, and thinning skin. While you can’t change genetics, you can help prevent or minimize them by getting enough sleep, staying hydrated, wearing SPF daily, treating allergies, and using an effective eye cream consistently.
Final Thoughts on the Best Drugstore Eye Cream for Dark Circles 2017
Even years later, the options for the best drugstore eye cream for dark circles 2017 still hold up as stellar choices for anyone seeking effective yet affordable solutions. From potent retinol formulas to energizing caffeine gels, these products demonstrate that you don’t have to spend a fortune to achieve brighter, more youthful-looking eyes.
Remember, consistency is key with any skincare product. Incorporate your chosen eye cream into your daily routine, and give it time to work its magic. With a little patience and the right product, you’ll be well on your way to saying goodbye to tired-looking eyes and hello to a more radiant you!
