12 Eye Creams That Won’t Irritate Even the Most Sensitive Skin

All of the products from this brand are excellent picks for sensitive skin types; credit the addition of thermal spring water, rich in soothing minerals. This eye cream is no different. Along with that spring water it also touts chamomile, which pulls double duty, both calming skin and helping to reduce under-eye puffiness. It’s loaded with hydrating hyaluronic acid and antioxidant-rich vitamin E, too, and is not only hypoallergenic but free of fragrance and parabens (both common irritants) as well.

Creamy and hydrating, this softens skin (thanks, cotton extract and aloe) without ever causing unsightly redness. To the natural point, it’s 98.9% natural, and so safe for sensitive skin that it even earned the seal of approval from the National Eczema Association. We’re also fans of the easy-to-dispense pump bottle that doesn’t require sticking grimy fingers into a jar.

There’s no denying that retinol is a gold standard anti-aging ingredient, one of the few continually scientifically-proven to reduce lines and wrinkles. There’s also no denying that it can have some pretty irksome side effects—we’re talking redness and irritation, among other things—that often put it on the no-fly list for those with sensitive skin. But this formula, recommended time and time again by derms, eschews that rule. With a milder strength and type of retinol, it delivers the same line-fighting benefits without taking a toll on (even super-sensitive) skin.

A great bet for all skin types, this is another pick packed with soothing spring water. It also is packed with hyaluronic acid, immediately hydrating—and plumping up—skin, while caffeine helps constrict blood vessels. The result: Less puffiness and under-eye bags. Win-win.

When you’ve had a late night, early morning, or the oh-so dreaded combination of both, reach for this guy to pretty much instantly brighten the under-eye area. Bonus points for the metal applicator tip, which makes it feel extra refreshing and invigorating. Ophthalmologist- and allergy-tested, it’s gentle enough for even the most sensitive of skin.

Four different peptides are the star of the show in this rich cream, working synergistically to deliver both firming and line-smoothing effects. Couple that with a whole bunch of different types of antioxidants with a host of skin-soothing benefits, and you’ve got a standout non-irritating, firming formula. 

Sure, you could buy and use one eye cream that hydrates, one that smooths lines, one that firms skin…but why? Particularly when you get just grab this one-stop-shop. Ultra-gentle and made entirely with certified organic ingredients, it does all of the above and more, thanks to collagen boosters, hyaluronic acid, and effective botanical extracts.

Those whose skin is especially dry should consider reaching for a thicker balm; made with less water and higher amounts of hydrating ingredients, they’re innately more moisturizing than creams or gels. (Oh, and the other boon of using a balm? Because it’s thicker, it’s less likely to migrate and run into your eyes.) This one gets our vote. Packed with vitamin E and shea butter, it deeply hydrates and never ever stresses out skin. FYI, it can be a little thick to use under makeup, so do as we do and save it for bedtime use.

Per the point about the skin around your eyes being so thin and susceptible to damage, sun protection in this area is more important than ever. That’s why this is an A+ A.M. pick; it offers SPF 30 derived from mineral blockers, which are less likely to elicit any kind of irritation than their chemical sunscreen counterparts. But don’t worry, it addresses all of your peeper problems too, hydrating, smoothing lines, and tamping down puffiness and dark circles.

We love gels for their lightweight, fast-absorbing, refreshing texture. Here, you get all of that, plus a dermatologist-tested formally that’s hypoallergenic and clinically proven to be gentle on sensitive skin. And while it soaks in fast and feels featherweight like a gel, it also offers the slightly higher moisture content of a cream, so you get the best of both worlds.

An eye cream that knocks out dark circles, fine lines, hydrates, is safe for sensitive skin, and is super affordable? We didn’t believe it could be done until we tried this wallet-friendly superstar. Despite the budget price tag, it still is packed with the same ingredients as are found in much pricier formulas (peptides, caffeine) for awesome results. Try it in the morning, since it creates a perfectly smooth canvas for foundation and concealer.