E! News Illustration / Photo Courtesy of L'OrealNo matter how much sleep I get, my dark circles always win. My olive complexion tends to make them look even darker, so I’ve spent years trying every eye cream that claims to brighten or firm.
After some serious research (and way too many late-night scrolls), I finally found the ones that live up to the hype—and they’re all under $25.
Retinol-based formulas are my current obsession because they gently smooth fine lines and boost collagen, giving my eyes that rested, lifted look. The key is finding low concentrations that deliver results without irritation.
I’ve also fallen for hydrating K-beauty picks that use caffeine, peptides, and vitamin C to brighten and de-puff.
These affordable creams from Amazon’s bestsellers chart are proof that you don’t need to spend a fortune for real results. My under eyes have never looked so refreshed, and my concealer barely gets any use anymore.
Editor-Approved Eye Creams Under $25:
RoC Retinol Correxion Under Eye Cream
Retinol lovers, listen up. This cult-favorite RoC eye cream everyone’s obsessed with actually delivers brighter, smoother, and firmer under eyes. My mom swore it was a game changer, and after trying it myself, I totally get the hype.
Beauty of Joseon Revive Eye Serum
The hype around K-beauty is real, and this $17 eye serum is proof. Fans say it smooths, brightens, and makes puffiness practically disappear.
CeraVe Eye Repair Cream
This soothing eye cream is a must-have for anyone with dryness or sensitivity. It hydrates with hyaluronic acid and ceramides while keeping things calm and refreshed.
Neutrogena Rapid Wrinkle Repair Retinol Eye Cream
Shoppers are calling this retinol eye cream a “miracle in a tube,” and we totally get it. It works fast to fade fine lines and restore that well-rested glow.
The INKEY List Caffeine Eye Cream
If retinol scares you, this Inkey List gem is your safe introduction. Lightweight and nourishing, it firms, hydrates, and preps your under eyes for a glow-up.
The Ordinary Caffeine Solution 5% + EGCG Depuffing Eye Serum
Puffy eyes? Not today. The Ordinary’s caffeine serum constricts blood vessels and smooths under eyes for a refreshed, bright look.
L'Oreal Paris Dermo-Expertise Eye Defense Eye Cream
Budget-friendly and seriously effective, this cream tackles puffiness, dark circles, and fine lines. Its lightweight, cooling formula leaves under eyes feeling instantly refreshed.
Versed Smooth Landing Advanced Retinoid Eye Balm
Who says retinol has to be harsh? This creamy, dermatologist-approved balm softens fine lines, firms under eyes, and reduces dark circles with a gentle touch.