Best anti aging eye serum for 40s

Taking care of the skin around your eyes doesn’t need to be complicated. But when looking for the best eye cream to address your specific skin concerns, you’ll have to take a few things into account. SELF spoke to skin-care experts about how to find the best eye cream for your different skin-care needs. And in search of products that actually manage to get the job done, SELF asked dermatologists for what they consider to be the best undereye creams out there. First, we dig into the most commonly asked questions when it comes to eye creams.

Are eye creams worth it?

Do you actually need to use a separate skin-care product just for your undereye area? It may seem excessive—especially if you’re already using a face moisturizer, a night cream, sunscreen (with at least SPF 30), and other products in your routine to address your skin-care issues. And if you’re able to use those products on your undereye area without any stinging, irritation, or other problems, you’ll probably be fine to continue doing so.

But skin experts tell us there are some really good reasons to consider investing in a separate eye cream. “The skin around the eye is thinner and more sensitive than skin in other areas,” Arash Akhavan, MD, a dermatologist based in New York City, tells SELF. It’s an area that’s also especially prone to showing signs of aging, like fine lines, wrinkles, crow’s-feet, and dark spots.

Which eye cream is best?

Not all eye creams are created equal. That means that the delicate skin around your eye contour is best cared for with products that meet a very specific set of needs. Some eye creams are made specifically to tackle crow’s-feet and fine lines whereas others are meant to brighten dark undereye circles. You should look for a nourishing eye cream that hydrates, brightens, and increases cell turnover—all without causing irritation on a part of your face that’s notoriously easy to upset. Depending on your exact undereye skin needs, you may also be on the lookout for products that can provide a cooling sensation in the area to help with puffing and swelling, both of which can exacerbate the look of dark circles or tired eyes. 

It’s true that the world of eye creams is incredibly varied, Mary L. Stevenson, MD, assistant professor in the Ronald O. Perelman Department of Dermatology at NYU Langone Health, tells SELF. Some are brightening eye creams that use vitamin C to lighten the appearance of dark circles, she says, while others contain retinoids or forms of vitamin A, that “prevent fine lines, crow’s-feet, and wrinkles, and also reduce the occurrence of milia (small white bumps), which are common on the lower eyelids.”

The world of eye creams is also constantly changing. That’s why Dr. Stevenson says she actually alternates between using two different eye creams. “This is one of the few products I change a lot, as it is a challenging area and we are constantly improving our treatments for it,” she explains. 

Here are our experts’ recommendations for the best eye creams. It’s worth remembering that the skin underneath our eyes is incredibly delicate, so it’s crucial to use a light, gentle touch to lather them on. And if you’re ever unsure, speak with a board-certified dermatologist before diving in.

All products featured on SELF are independently selected by our editors. However, when you buy something through our retail links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

I’m the go-to guide gal and routine queen here at Adore Beauty. I have a background in media and communications, and over 3 years experience in the beauty industry. When I’m not answering all of your burning questions, you can find me spruiking underrated products to my co-workers and trying to figure out what our best bloody mascara is.

I’m the go-to guide gal and routine queen here at Adore Beauty. I have a background in media and communications, and over 3 years experience in the beauty industry. When I’m not answering all of your burning questions, you can find me spruiking underrated products to my co-workers and trying to figure out what our best bloody mascara is.

Best anti aging eye serum for 40s
Best anti aging eye serum for 40s

It’s generally accepted that the delicate eye area is the first part of the face to show signs of ageing skin.

Those nearing their 40s will probably be starting to get familiar with the signs. 

The good news is that ageing, and all its signs, are completely normal.

However, if you want to keep that area hydrated and protected, it’s probably worth investing in an effective eye cream for fine lines and wrinkles.

Whether you want to neutralise dark circles, revitalise tired eyes, diminish wrinkles, or reduce puffiness - we have a formula you’re sure to love!

So, if you’re here to discover the best anti-ageing creams for 40 year olds, we’ve put together a list of impressive top picks to help you firm up ageing skin around the eyes.

Best anti aging eye serum for 40s

Cosmedix Opti Crystal-Liquid Eye Serum is bursting with anti-ageing ingredients that offer a complete reboot to tired and ageing eyes. Penetrating to the deepest layers of the delicate eye skin, this lightweight serum counteracts aging around eyes for a plumper, smoother, and brighter appearance. Working to instantly diminish the results of a bad night's sleep and providing long-term benefits to ageing skin, this eye serum from Cosmedix is the perfect way to promote a refreshed look in the eye contour area.

Best anti aging eye serum for 40s

Best anti aging eye serum for 40s

Best anti aging eye serum for 40s

The BOOST LAB Bio-Active Eye Reset Serum is a hydrating, anti-fatigue eye serum that helps to takle the first signs of aging. It's designed to tackle multiple corcerns without heavy ingredients, Sulfates, Parabens, Fragrances or oils. This formula is the best eye serum to help reduce fine lines and wrinkles, dark circles, puffy eye bags and oxidative stress. So, if you're looking for the best skin serum for over 40s that's also affordable, it's worth giving this one a shot.

Best anti aging eye serum for 40s

Dermalogica MultiVitamin Power Firm has been developed to tackle fine lines and wrinkles in the delicate eye contour are while protecting this vulnerable skin from age-accelerating environmental aggressors.Vitamin A stimulates skin-cell renewal to reveal a brighter and smoother complexion that’s free of fine lines and wrinkles. Vitamin C aids collagen production for plumper and better hydrated skin. Vitamin E and Green Tea soothes the skin and offers antioxidant protection against free-radical damage. This eye cream for fine lines is suitable for all skin types, including sensitive skin.

Best anti aging eye serum for 40s

Best anti aging eye serum for 40s

Best anti aging eye serum for 40s

The Société Ultimate Eye Lift Dual Pack is a revolutionary duo that will help diminish imperfections and turn back the clock on ageing skin. First, the Lift & Fill Serum will instantly plump and hydrate the skin, combating puffiness and fine lines. This eye serum is infused with Hyaluronate Microgels and a blend of peptides and Asiatic Acid, which repairs and lifts ageing skin. Next, the Firm & Brighten Cream works to stimulate collagen production for plumper skin. This fast-acting eye cream neutralises pigmentation and brighten dark circles. The addition of a Peptide complex accelerates skin-cell renewal and repair.

Best anti aging eye serum for 40s

The Estée Lauder Advanced Night Repair Eye Supercharged Complex is an overnight eye cream that assists your natural repair process as you sleep. You’ll wake up to a bright, hydrated, and rejuvenated appearance. To recharge skin, this eye treatment is boosted with Estée Lauder’s exclusive ChronoluxCB™ technology, which promotes the skin’s repair process. The product also contains high concentrations of Hyaluronic Acid, which both instantly hydrates the skin and locks in moisture. Using multi-action anti-pollution defense technology, this formula will also protect the skin from age-accelerating free-radical damage.

Best anti aging eye serum for 40s

Best anti aging eye serum for 40s

Best anti aging eye serum for 40s

So, what is the best eye cream for wrinkles and bags? We reckon it could be the Osmosis Skincare Refresh Revitalizing Eye Cream. Yes, it has a luxurious price tag, but it also has the ingredients to back it up. A combinition of expertly picked peptides, natural plant extracts and super hydrators leave skin feeling firm and smooth. Perfect for all skin types, this rich and highly hydrating targeted cream leaves the skin feeing refreshed making it one of the best eye creams for 40s.

Best anti aging eye serum for 40s

Alpha-H is known and loved for its high-performance, fast-acting skin treatments, and the Alpha-H Liquid Gold Firming Eye Cream is no exception. Just like the original Liquid Gold serum, this nourishing eye cream for fine lines is infused with alpha-hydroxy acids. These carefully chosen AHAs offer gentle exfoliation to the skin, revealing a new complexion underneath. With its ability to diminish the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, and puffiness, dark circles, and other signs of fatigue, this powerful eye creams is one of the best anti wrinkle cream for 40 year olds. These hard-hitting ingredients make Alpha-H Liquid Gold Firming Eye Cream one of the best eye creams for wrinkles.

Best anti aging eye serum for 40s

Best anti aging eye serum for 40s

Best anti aging eye serum for 40s

Best for dry and dehydrated mature skin showing signs of ageing around the eye contour. The IT Cosmetics Bye Bye Under Eye Eye Cream is a nourishing formula that the texture of dry and dehydrated mature skin. This intensely hydrating eye cream for 40s is bursting with conditioning ingredients to restore moisture levels, protect the skin against drying environmental aggressors, and reverse the signs of premature ageing. We say use this cream preemtively as it is the best eye cream to avoid wrinkles.

Best anti aging eye serum for 40s

Most eye treatments are designed to prevent and reduce the signs of premature ageing caused by external factors such as pollution and UV damage. However, the SkinCeuticals A.G.E. Eye Complex has been developed to tackle genetic changes that occur within the skin over time. Glycation is a natural cause of ageing that occurs when sugar binds to collagen and elastin fibres, making them less effective at keeping skin firm and hydrated. This powerful eye anti wrinkle eye cream for 40s from SkinCeuticals uses Advanced Glycation End ingredients to slow and reverse glycation for a more youthful complexion.

Best anti aging eye serum for 40s

Best anti aging eye serum for 40s

Best anti aging eye serum for 40s

Retinol is known as one of the most effective anti-ageing skincare ingredients. This form of Vitamin A accelerates skin-cell renewal to reveal a brighter and smoother complexion. However, Retinol can be unkind to sensitive and vulnerable skin. Enriched with mild 0.1% Retinol, this low concentration lets you enjoy all the benefits of Retinol without experiencing irritation or sensitivity in the delicate eye area. So, whats that difference between eye cream and eye serum containing Retinol? Well, in this case the serum formula penetrates more deeply.

Best anti aging eye serum for 40s

The Pixi Collagen Eye Serum comprises of hydrating and plumping ingredients for bith instant and long term results. Quick to absorb and lightweight, this silky formula is comprised of Hyaluronic Acid, Acacia Collagen, and Glycerin for a smoother texture. You can use this serum night or day for a wide eyed, refreshing look. Plus, it is reasonably affordable while offering substantial improvement.

Best anti aging eye serum for 40s

Best anti aging eye serum for 40s

Best anti aging eye serum for 40s

SK-II R.N.A. Power Eye Cream tackles fine lines and dark circles, actively improving the appearance of firmness and elasticity in the delicate under eye area. This eye cream for 40s has a silky formula contains a few key ingredients to keep skin soft and supple. Shea butter, which is comprised of Vitamins A, E and F, helps to boost collagen production, while Niacinamide improves skin tone and texture. Be gentle when applying skincare to your eye area, as it is extra-sensitive and prone to damage. Avoid tugging or rubbing the eyes to prevent fine lines from forming.


Brand and product inclusions are at the sole discretion of Adore Beauty. We do not seek or accept payment from brands or individuals listed in our guides.


Shop Our 12 Best Anti-Aging Eye Creams & Serums for 40s Here

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Best anti aging eye serum for 40s

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Filled with the usual things we know you'll love, and surprises you might not expect, it's real rewards, really simple.

Filled with the usual things we know you'll love, and surprises you might not expect, it's real rewards, really simple.

How can I fix aging skin around my eyes?

7 Tips to Minimize the Aging Effects in the Eye Area.
Decrease Sun Exposure and Tanning. ... .
Quit Smoking. ... .
Consider a Humidifier. ... .
Take Care with Cosmetics Around the Eye Area. ... .
Decrease Stress Levels. ... .
Hydrate and Eat Clean. ... .
Use an Effective Eye Cream..

Is it OK to put retinol under eyes?

Should you use retinol under your eyes? Yes, definitely. While it is true that retinol – a form of vitamin A – is a powerful ingredient and the skin under your eyes is delicate, there's no reason why you should miss out on the amazing benefits of retinol.

How can I plump under my eyes?

11 Ways to Thicken the Skin Under Your Eyes.
Plump Up Your Skin with Hyaluronic Acid..
Experience the Power of Tea..
Treat Sensitive Skin to a Facial..
Always Moisturize Your Skin..
Enhance Collagen and Elastin with Radiofrequency..
Use an Eye Cream at Night..
Incorporate Retinol Into Your Skincare Regimen..
Exfoliate Your Skin..

Is eye Lift cream Effective?

It really helps to reduce puffy eyes and dullness under the eyes. Consistent use may also help to combat dark circles. It is very hydrating on the skin and therefore it also works as a great primer for the eyes before applying concealer.