Korean Eye Cream Buying Guide 2023 | How To Reduce Dark Circles and Puffy Eyes!

Aug 07, 2024Jih Jih

How to Choose the Best Korean Eye Cream: Your Ultimate Guide

The Importance of Eye Creams

Before delving into the selection process, let’s briefly explore why eye creams are essential in a skincare routine. The skin around our eyes is delicate and thinner than the skin on the rest of our face. This area is prone to fine lines, wrinkles, puffiness, and dark circles due to factors like aging, sun exposure, and fatigue.

A well-formulated eye cream can help address these concerns by providing hydration, reducing puffiness, and enhancing the skin’s elasticity, ultimately contributing to a more youthful and refreshed appearance.

Understanding Your Eye Care Needs

The first step in choosing the best Korean eye cream is to understand your specific eye care needs. Eye creams are designed to target various concerns, and selecting one tailored to your requirements will yield the most significant benefits. Here are some common eye care concerns and the corresponding ingredients to look for:

1. Fine Lines and Wrinkles:

Look for ingredients like retinol, peptides, and hyaluronic acid. These ingredients can help stimulate collagen production, improve skin texture, and reduce the appearance of lines and wrinkles.

2. Dark Circles:

Eye creams containing niacinamide, vitamin C, arbutin, and caffeine can help brighten the under-eye area and reduce the appearance of dark circles.

3. Puffiness:

Ingredients such as caffeine, green tea extract, and chamomile can help reduce puffiness and soothe the under-eye area.

4. Dryness and Dehydration:

Hyaluronic acid, glycerin, and ceramides are excellent choices for providing deep hydration and locking in moisture.

5. Sensitivity and Irritation:

Opt for fragrance-free and hypoallergenic formulas with calming ingredients like aloe vera, chamomile, and centella asiatica.

By identifying your primary concerns, you can narrow down your options and choose an eye cream that’s specifically formulated to address those issues.

Examining the Ingredients

The next crucial step in selecting the best Korean eye cream is to scrutinize the ingredient list. Korean skincare places a significant emphasis on natural and beneficial ingredients, so you’ll often find a wealth of botanical extracts and innovative compounds. Here are some key ingredients commonly found in Korean eye creams and their benefits:

1. Snail Mucin:

Known for its regenerative properties, snail mucin can help repair damaged skin, improve elasticity, and reduce the appearance of fine lines.

2. Ginseng Extract:

Ginseng is a staple in Korean skincare and is prized for its anti-aging benefits. It can enhance blood circulation, brighten the skin, and promote collagen production.

3. Green Tea Extract:

Rich in antioxidants, green tea extract helps protect the skin from environmental damage, reduces inflammation, and soothes irritation.

4. Propolis:

Propolis, a resinous substance collected by bees, has antibacterial and healing properties. It can help with skin regeneration and hydration.

5. Galactomyces Ferment Filtrate:

This yeast extract is celebrated for its brightening and skin-renewing capabilities. It can help fade dark spots and improve skin texture.

6. Centella Asiatica:

Also known as “tiger grass,” centella asiatica is known for its soothing and anti-inflammatory properties. It’s excellent for sensitive or irritated skin.

7. Ceramides:

Ceramides are lipid molecules that help strengthen the skin’s natural barrier, preventing moisture loss and maintaining hydration.

When examining the ingredient list, be on the lookout for any ingredients you may be sensitive or allergic to. Additionally, check for the concentration of key ingredients; they should be present in effective amounts to deliver results.

Texture and Consistency

The texture and consistency of an eye cream can significantly impact your overall experience. Korean eye creams come in various forms, including gels, creams, and serums. Your choice should align with your skin type and preferences:

1. Gels:

Gel-based eye creams are lightweight and absorb quickly. They are ideal for those with oily or combination skin and can provide a refreshing sensation.

2. Creams:

Creamy eye creams are richer and more nourishing, making them suitable for dry or mature skin. They offer intense hydration and are often formulated with anti-aging ingredients.

3. Serums:

Eye serums are lightweight and typically contain a high concentration of active ingredients. They penetrate the skin quickly and are excellent for targeting specific concerns.

Consider your skin type and whether you prefer a particular texture when selecting your Korean eye cream.

Fragrance and Sensitivity

Many Korean skincare products, including eye creams, are known for their pleasant fragrances. While fragrance can enhance the overall sensory experience, it can also be a source of irritation, especially for those with sensitive skin or allergies. If you have a history of skin sensitivity, consider opting for fragrance-free or hypoallergenic eye creams to minimize the risk of adverse reactions.

Packaging and Preservation

The packaging of your chosen eye cream is more than just aesthetics; it plays a crucial role in preserving the product’s efficacy. Look for eye creams that come in opaque or airtight containers to protect the ingredients from exposure to light and air, which can degrade their potency over time. Some Korean eye creams also come in single-use capsules, ensuring each application is fresh and hygienic.

Brand Reputation and Reviews

Korean skincare brands vary in terms of quality and effectiveness. To ensure you’re choosing a reputable product, consider the brand’s reputation, customer reviews, and any awards or certifications they may have received. Reading reviews and testimonials from other users can provide valuable insights into a product’s performance and suitability for your needs.

Price and Value

Korean skincare offers a wide range of price points, from budget-friendly options to high-end luxury products. While cost can be a factor, it’s essential to consider the value a product offers. Evaluate the size of the product, the concentration of active ingredients, and how long it’s likely to last with regular use. Sometimes, investing in a slightly more expensive eye cream with higher-quality ingredients can yield better long-term results.

Patch Testing

Before fully incorporating a new Korean eye cream into your skincare routine, it’s a good practice to perform a patch test. Apply a small amount of the product to a discreet area of your skin, such as behind your ear or on your inner forearm. Wait 24-48 hours to see if any adverse reactions occur, such as redness, itching, or irritation. If your skin tolerates the product well during this test, it’s likely safe for broader use.

I’ve never met a Korean beauty (K-Beauty) product I didn’t like. I have used full K-Beauty skin care lines (cleanser, toner, day and night moisturizers, serum, eye cream) and it’s all been fab pic.twitter.com/Xpe8pbUYes
— virtual Assistant (@fateemahrh) August 24, 2023

Ingredients to Look for in best Korean Eye Cream

Make sure to look to pick an eye cream that is fragrance-free as the area around the eyes is sensitive and artificial fragrance can cause irritation. Also looking for ingredients like snail slime is also good. This is extremely popular in Korean beauty beauty products including Korean eye creams for anti aging benefits and other skin nourishing properties.

Here are some other ingredients to look for in the best Korean eye cream for yourself!

Vitamin E: Vitamin E gets rid of free radicals in the skin and nourishes the skin when used along with vitamin C. It also promotes a smoother complexion
Hyaluronic Acid:improves skin hydration and keeps moisture locked in. It also promotes collagen production which ultimately slows down skin aging.
Vitamin C: Vitamin C gets rid of free radicals and is an antioxidant that helps promote collagen production. Other than this, Vitamin C is also known for its skin brightening properties. So for those with dark circles vitamin C can help reduce dark circles.
Ceramides: This ingredient improves the skin’s natural barrier and reduces moisture loss making skin look plump
Neuropeptides: this ingredient promotes the production of collagen in our skin and helps reduce the appearance of signs of aging like wrinkles, fine lines and appearance of crow’s feet.

Best Korean Eye Creams

Reducing dark circles and puffiness around the eyes is a common skincare concern, and there are several effective strategies to help address these issues. Here are some tips and remedies to help you reduce dark circles and puffy eyes:

1. Get Adequate Sleep:

Lack of sleep is a major contributor to dark circles and puffiness. Ensure you’re getting 7-9 hours of quality sleep each night to allow your body to repair and rejuvenate.

2. Use a Cold Compress:

Applying a cold compress or chilled cucumber slices to your closed eyelids for 10-15 minutes can help reduce puffiness and soothe the eye area.

3. Stay Hydrated:

Dehydration can make dark circles more prominent. Drink plenty of water throughout the day to keep your body and skin hydrated.

4. Elevate Your Head While Sleeping:

Using an extra pillow or elevating the head of your bed can prevent fluid from pooling around your eyes, reducing morning puffiness.

5. Apply Eye Creams:

Look for eye creams that contain ingredients like vitamin C, vitamin K, hyaluronic acid, peptides, and caffeine. These ingredients can help reduce dark circles, improve skin elasticity, and minimize puffiness. Apply the eye cream in gentle tapping motions using your ring finger, which has the lightest touch.

6. Use Sunscreen:

Protecting your skin from UV damage can prevent the thin skin around your eyes from becoming darker. Wear sunglasses with UV protection and apply sunscreen to the eye area when going outdoors.

7. Cold Tea Bags or Tea Compress:

Applying cold tea bags (green or black tea) or tea compresses (chilled brewed tea) can help constrict blood vessels and reduce puffiness. Leave them on your closed eyes for about 15 minutes.

8. Maintain a Healthy Diet:

A diet rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals can benefit your skin. Include foods like fruits, vegetables, and foods high in omega-3 fatty acids in your diet.

9. Reduce Salt Intake:

Excess salt can lead to fluid retention and puffiness. Limit your salt intake, especially in the evening.

10. Allergy Management:
– If allergies are contributing to puffiness and dark circles, consult with an allergist for appropriate treatments or medications.

11. Home Remedies:
– Some home remedies like using potato slices, aloe vera gel, or almond oil can provide temporary relief. Apply them for 10-15 minutes, then rinse with cool water.

12. Consider Cosmetic Procedures:
– For severe cases, cosmetic treatments like dermal fillers or laser therapy can be considered. Consult a dermatologist or cosmetic surgeon for advice.

13. Be Gentle:
– Avoid rubbing or tugging at the delicate skin around your eyes, as this can cause further damage and inflammation.

14. Manage Stress:
– High stress levels can contribute to dark circles and puffy eyes. Practice stress-reduction techniques such as meditation, yoga, or deep breathing exercises.

Remember that results may vary depending on the individual, and it may take some time to see improvements. Consistency is key, so stick to your skincare routine and lifestyle changes for the best results. If dark circles and puffiness persist despite your efforts, consult a dermatologist or healthcare professional for a more personalized treatment plan.

Mizon Collagen Power Firming Eye Cream

Top Korean Eye Cream For Building Elasticity And Firming The Skin

We know that one of the main reasons behind wrinkles and the sagging of the skin around the eyes as we age is because the collagen breaks down.

While Mizon does have quite a few eye creams in its range, this one is one of my favourites for obvious reasons!

It helps put the collagen back in the skin through a high percentage of marine collagen to prevent aging. It deeply hydrates the skin and is perfect if you are over 30.

Benefits:

Contains 42% marine collagen as the primary ingredient
Builds collagen tissues in the skin
Improves elasticity in the skin
Reduces the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines
Intensely moisturising

Pros:

Almost instant results are visible

Cons:

Not suitable for oily skin

Check latest On Amazon

Related: Best Korean Anti aging Eye Cream
Related: Best Korean Eye Cream for Dark Circles
Related: Best Korean Eye Mask for Dark Circles

ETUDE HOUSE Moistfull Collagen Eye Cream

Top Korean Eye Cream For Elasticity

You already know the benefits of collagen, so here we are with another Collagen based eye cream by Etude House.

The Moistfull Collagen Eye Cream is light and jelly-like in texture, making this perfect for you even if you have oily skin. It uses hydrolyzed collagen water to plump up the skin and add elasticity, reducing fine lines and wrinkles from forming.

It lightly moisturizes and makes the skin smooth. What I love about this eye cream is that it is so rich and thick but still doesn’t feel sticky. As soon as I applied it, it absorbed into my undereye area and made it soft and supple.

When it comes to eye creams Sulwhasoo brand of eye creams have always been my favorite but this eye cream from Etude house has all the benefits of the Sulwhasoo eye creams with a cheaper price tag!

ETUDE HOUSE Moistfull Collagen Eye Cream

Benefits:

Contains 64% hydrolyzed collagen water as its active ingredient
Plumps up the skin
Reduces fine lines and wrinkles
Firms the skin around the eyes
Contains baoba b oil
Lightly moisturizes the skin
Smoothens the skin around the eyes
Has a light and jelly-like texture
Easy to spread

Pros:

Suitable for oily skin types as well

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PURITO Centella Green Level Eye Cream

Top Korean Eye Cream For Reducing Puffiness

Water retention in the eyes when you sleep or even during the day can cause unwanted puffiness and even dark circles.

Purito’s Centella Green Level Eye Cream combines some very effective peptides along with the extracts of Centella Asiatica leaves to effectively reduce puffiness, get rid of dark circles and fine lines, and leave you with smooth skin around your eyes.

Benefits:

Contains 49% centella asiatica extracts as its primary ingredient
Helps in reducing inflammation, puffiness and dark circles
Contains peptides that strengthen the skin around the eyes
Moisturises the skin
Smoothens the skin around the eyes
Contains no fragrances, parabens, sulphates or gluten
Non-irritant formula

Pros:

Effective in reducing puffiness and bags around the eyes
Packaged in a tube, easy to carry, hygienic to use

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Mizon’s Snail Repair Eye Cream

Top Korean Eye Cream For Skin Rejuvenation

There is no way you are going to have a list of the best skin products without something that includes snail mucus as its active ingredient.

Known for its amazing skin repair and tightening properties, Mizon makes use of snail mucus in its range of Snail Repair skincare. The Snail repair eye cream helps in cell regeneration, repairing skin cells and firming up the skin around your eyes.

It is intensely moisturizing, plumping the skin and making it more supple and elastic.

Benefits:

Contains snail mucin as the active ingredient
Tightens the skin and gets rid of fine lines
Helps in cell regeneration and repair
Reduces the formation of wrinkles
Contains niacinamide
Brightens the skin and reduces dark circles
Moisturises the skin around the eyes
Makes skin supple and plump

Pros:

Long term skin tightening and firming effect

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Innisfree Perfect 9 Repair Eye Cream

Top Korean Eye Cream For Complete Protection And Care

Sometimes you want a cream that you can start using when you are in your late 20’s, one that will take care of all your skin needs and maintain its health.

Innisfree’s Perfect 9 Repair Eye Cream is that cream for you, with its ability to hydrate, firm the skin, reduce fine lines and keep it smooth.

Benefits:

Contains Jeju island’s Lingzhi mushroom extracts as the active ingredient
Intensely hydrates and detoxifies the skin
Reduces puffiness
Diminishes dark circles and fine lines
Refreshes the skin and makes it brighter

Pros:

Ideal to begin using this on younger skin
Can be used by all skin types

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Innisfree The Green Tea Seed Eye Cream

Top Korean Eye Cream For Dry Skin

Green tea is refreshing and a very effective antioxidant that helps in fighting free radical damage.

Innisfree’s The Green Tea Seed Eye Cream uses green tea seed oil extracts as well as panthenol to moisturize the skin, strengthen it and reduce dark circles.

Benefits:

Contains the extracts of Jeju green tea seed oil and panthenol as the active ingredients
Green tea extracts prevent damage of the skin under the eyes
Protect the skin from environmental damage
Strengthens the skin barrier
Moisturises the skin deeply
Makes skin plumper and more supple

Pros:

Intensely moisturising for dry and very dry skin types

Cons:

Has a strong fragrance
Heavy consistency
Not suitable for oily skin

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SECRET KEY Starting Treatment Eye Cream

Top Korean Eye Cream For Lifting Wrinkles

The Secret Key Starting Treatment Eye Cream is a superb moisturizer that is also very gentle on the skin. It contains effective antioxidants that fight damage and keep the skin smooth and healthy.

Benefits:

Contains galactomyces and ceramides
Galactomyces encourage the absorption of moisture into the skin
They act as good antioxidants, keeping away skin damage
Also contains shea butter, oils of macadamia, sweet almond, argan, and jojoba seed for deep moisturization
Contains niacinamide and adenosine for skin brightening
Free of parabens, mineral oils and strong fragrances that can trigger a reaction in sensitive skin

Pros:

Gentle for sensitive skin

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Laneige Water Bank Eye Gel

Top Korean Eye Cream For Intense Hydration

Laneige Water Bank Eye Gel contains ceramide waters for pumping the skin around your eyes with some serious hydration.

Hydrating your skin can plump it up and reduce fine lines to a large extent, and this cream takes care of that. It also nourishes your skin with vitamin E, and protects it from sagging.

As with any Laneige skincare product, this is quite expensive, but worth every cent you put towards it.

Benefits:

Contains advanced ceramide waters, vitamin E and Jojoba esters as the active ingredients
Ceramide waters are intensely hydrating
Jojoba esters condition the skin and moisturise it
Vitamin E makes the skin firmer and more supple
Protects against environmental damage

Pros:

Perfect hydration for dry and normal skin types

Cons:

Meant for those in their early 30’s as it does not help much with wrinkles on older skin
Can be a bit heavy on oily skin

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SKIN FOOD Royal Honey Essential Eye Cream

Top Korean Eye Cream For Moisturisation And Fading Dark Circles

Containing the goodness of honey that is fermented for 2 months, the Royal Honey Essential Eye Cream by Skinfood comes with all the properties you need to maintain the beauty of the skin around your eyes.

It is a good moisturizer if you have oily skin as it is not greasy. It fades the dark circles around your eyes, firms the skin and makes it plumper.

Benefits:

Contains fermented honey as its main ingredient
Honey contains natural bleaching and moisturising properties
Diminishes dark circles
Moisturises the skin around the eyes
Honey also has anti-inflammatory properties
It reduces puffiness and brings down water retention
Skin feels firmer and brighter

Pros:

Ideal for oily skin
Perfect for younger skin, if you are around 30 years

Cons:

Not meant for older or ageing skin
Not effective enough for heavy wrinkles
Not meant for very dry skin

AMORE PACIFIC Moisture Bound Rejuvenating Eye Treatment Gel

Top Korean Eye Cream For Skin Rejuvenation

Take a deep breath before you check out the price of the AMORE PACIFIC Moisture Bound Rejuvenating Eye Treatment Gel, but let me assure you that this will work magic around your eyes and get them to shine and sparkle!

Containing bamboo extracts and a hydra complex, this Korean eye cream nourishes and hydrates the skin to strengthen it and maintain its health.

Benefits:

Contains bamboo extracts and a 5-hydra complex
Intensely moisturises and locks in hydration
Makes skin very supple and plump
Nourishes the skin and strengthens it
Gentle on the skin
Free of skin irritants

Pros:

Quick results
Can be used in any weather or season

Cons:

Super expensive

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AHC Ultimate Real Eye cream for Face

Top Korean Eye Cream For Wrinkles And Lifting The Skin

Aesthetic Hydration Cosmetics (AHC)’s Ultimate Real Eye cream for Face does have a name that’s confusing.

But it turns out that this cream is a superb moisturizer and delicate enough to be used around the eyes.

With some unique ingredients, this cream effectively tightens wrinkles, prevents more from forming, and lifts the skin around the eyes.

best korean eye cream for dark circles 2020

Benefits:

Contains glycoproteins derived from the Antarctic ocean
Glycoproteins help build collagen and encourage skin repair and renewal
This plumps up the skin, makes it more elastic
Reduces dark circles caused due to fatigue
Tightens the skin and reduces fine lines
Intensely moisturises the skin
Texture of the cream feels thick but is easy to spread

Pros:

Light in texture and easily absorbed into the skin
Effects are visible in just a few days

Cons:

Has a very strong scent
May not be suitable for sensitive skin types

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Nature Republic Snail Solution Eye Cream

Top Korean Eye Cream For Skin Rejuvenation And Repair

Nature Republic has a wide range of eye creams but my pick is the Snail Solution Eye Cream for the effects of snail mucin in it. It also contains some other potent ingredients that reduce dark circles, fine lines and deeply hydrate the skin.

Benefits:

Contains 70% snail mucin for effective skin repair
Helps in cell regeneration, reducing dark circles and skin firming
Contains hyaluronic acid for intense moisturising
Locks in moisture for hydration throughout the day
Contains glycoproteins that strengthen the skin barrier
Improves elasticity of the skin
Consistency of the cream is light and easy to spread
Comes in a tube which is clean and easy to use

Pros:

Neat and hygienic packaging

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Conclusion

Choosing the best Korean eye cream for your skincare needs doesn’t have to be overwhelming. By understanding your specific concerns, examining the ingredient list, considering texture and consistency, and factoring in your skin type and sensitivity, you can make an informed decision. Remember to read reviews, check brand reputations, and consider the value a product offers in relation to its price. With these guidelines, you’ll be well-equipped to select a Korean eye cream that helps you achieve your desired results and leaves your eyes looking refreshed and radiant.

Why You Should Trust BestKoreanProducts?

All our editors including the author of this article, Jih Yun do extensive research on the products reviewed and recommended in the article. We also use these products ourself to give you accurate, first hand information without any prejudice or bias. BestKoreanproducts has also got a team of medical reviewers and skincare experts to help give accurate advice and provide research-based facts concerning a product, its formulation or ingredients.

Korean Eye Cream Buying Guide 2023 | How To Reduce Dark Circles and Puffy Eyes!

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Top Korean Eye Cream	Best for
Mizon Collagen Power Firming Eye Cream	Skin elasticity
ETUDE HOUSE Moistfull Collagen Eye Cream	Skin elasticity
PURITO Centella Green Level Eye Cream	Puffy eyes
Mizon’s Snail Repair Eye Cream	Hydration
Innisfree Perfect 9 Repair Eye Cream	overall protection
Innisfree The Green Tea Seed Eye Cream	Dry SKin
SECRET KEY Starting Treatment Eye Cream	Wrinkles
Laneige Water Bank Eye Gel	Hydration
AMORE PACIFIC Moisture Bound Rejuvenating Eye Treatment Gel	Rejuvenation
AHC Ultimate Real Eye cream for Face	wrinkles
Nature Republic Snail Solution Eye Cream	skin repair