9 Best Korean Eye Creams for Wrinkles & Dark Circles in 2024
Whether you’re dealing with dark circles, wrinkles or puffiness, these top-rated gentle K-beauty eye creams will gain a permanent spot in your skincare routine.
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As someone who visits South Korea every year just to stock up on beauty products from Olive Young (the country’s version of Australia’s Mecca or Sephora), it comes as no surprise when I say I’ve tried all the viral and lesser-known K-beauty eye creams on the market.
Related: Best Korean Beauty Products
Like sunscreen, my Korean mum urged me to start using an eye cream from a young age since it’s one of the first parts of our faces to show signs of ageing. This is because the skin around our eyes is the most delicate, void of sebaceous glands and with less collagen and elastin fibres. Factor in the number of repetitive eye movements we make every day (think: squinting, smiling and rubbing) and you’ve got yourself the perfect canvas for crow’s-feet, under-eye bags and plenty of other issues to develop.
With this in mind, you might be thinking, “Well, can’t a regular facial serum or moisturiser be used around the eyes?”
Unfortunately, not. That’s because these formulas aren’t designed to treat skin as thin as under the eye. They may also be too rich and lead to milia or even contain harsh ingredients that could irritate.
What I’ve learned over more than a decade of testing eye creams from Korean beauty brands is that the innovative formulas are gentle (even for my hypersensitive skin), extremely effective, lightweight, versatile enough to be used in the morning and evening, and thankfully, are much more affordable compared to Western rivalry.
It’s all thanks to a host of signature Korean ingredients that can be found in most eye products, like ginseng, bakuchiol (aka a vegan alternative to retinol), snail mucin, Centella asiatica and Bifida ferment extract, to name a few. When these are formulated into innovative eye care products, they can do wonders for combating dark circles, fine lines and puffiness so you can appear bright-eyed and well-rested, even when you don’t get your full eight hours of beauty sleep.
Related: Best Eye Creams
So, we’ve compiled a list of the very best Korean eye creams you can shop online now, which cover a range of formulas, skin types and concerns. I must stress that competition is incredibly fierce, fast-paced and saturated in the South Korean skincare market so those that have received recognition below in our guide are truly the creme de la creme of the lot.
You’ll find products that have gained cult TikTok status and accumulated thousands of five-star reviews online, like the Beauty of Joseon Revive Eye Serum: Ginseng + Retinal ($28.99)
There’s also the accompanying eye cream to the snail mucin serum responsible for putting K-beauty products on the Western world’s map, the Cosrx Snail Peptide Eye Cream ($24).
You could also try the popular LANEIGE Water Bank Blue Hyaluronic Acid Eye Cream ($56).
Regardless of your age or concern, one (or a few) of the below products is sure to gain a permanent spot in your skincare routine.
TOP PICKS
BEST KOREAN EYE CREAM OVERALL
Beauty of Joseon Revive Eye Serum: Ginseng + Retinal, $28.99 (down from $33) at Amazon Australia
Why we love it: A silky creamlike texture that provides deep moisture to target fine lines, uneven skin texture and pigmentation around the eyes. It can even be used on all areas of the face that run into fine lines, acne and dehydration.
What to consider: It still contains a small amount of vitamin A so if you’re new to this ingredient, it’s best to start with a very small amount or patch test on a small area of your neck or behind your ear.
Key ingredients: Ginseng extract, retinal liposome and niacinamide | Skin type: Normal, dry, oily, combination, acne-prone and sensitive | Size: 30ml
What You Need To Know
I have to admit that I was hesitant to try this Beauty of Joseon eye serum as I’m someone with hypersensitive skin who can’t handle retinol products. However, fast-forward three years later and I’ve actually lost count of the number of tubes I’ve gone through — and considering I have another two unopened sitting in my beauty cupboard as I write this, it doesn’t look like I’m letting go of it anytime soon.
The reason why it’s so gentle yet effective is because it’s formulated with retinal, not retinol. While the two are vitamin A derivatives of retinoids, they’re actually quite different. Retinal (AKA retinaldehyde) is closer to the active form because it only requires one conversion from retinoic acid (compared to retinol needing two). This means it’s faster-acting and more effective at boosting collagen production, reducing fine lines and wrinkles, and eliminating the appearance of blemishes, pore size, texture, spots and uneven pigmentation. But because it’s more effective than retinol, it’s also more… irritating.
Now, to combat this, Beauty of Joseon has incorporated Liposomal Technology into the formula, an advanced encapsulation system that protects unstable retinal from degradation. To add to this, it also contains 10 per cent Panax ginseng root extract – which research has shown to boost hydration, banish rough texture, improve fine lines and fade pigmentation – and glycerin, niacinamide and sodium hyaluronate for hydration and nourishment.
The cream can even be used as a spot treatment (which makes sense since retinal and niacinamide are antibacterial powerhouse ingredients), so a light layer of this product over pimples will help calm the severity of said spots.
Look, I promise I’m not the only one obsessed with this Beauty of Joseon product; another 3.8k five-star Amazon reviewers are fans of this cult product, which says a lot for such an affordable buy.
BEST ANTI-AGEING KOREAN EYE CREAM
VT Cosmetics Reedle Shot Lifting Eye Cream, $46.16 (down from $51.29) at Yesstyle
Why we love it: The most advanced “microneeding-in-a-bottle” eye cream on the market that helps restore skin elasticity and boost hydration.
What to consider: The formula is slightly sticky and may not sit well under makeup so it’s best to use this in the evenings only. It also creates a slight prickly sensation when applied, which might not be to everyone’s liking.
Key ingredients: Hyaluronic acid, niacinamide and collagen | Skin type: Combination, dry, normal and oily skin | Size: 15ml
What You Need To Know
VT Cosmetics is the Korean brand behind the “microneedling-in-a-bottle” craze you’ve probably heard about on social media (yes, it actually feels like applying millions of harmless needles onto your skin). Now they’ve recently released an accompanying product specifically targeted for the area around the eyes.
Like the OG VT Reedle Shot, this product is created with Cica Reedle, the “world’s leading nano-biotechnology” and contains micro-needle-shaped ingredients smaller than pores. This ensures deep penetration of active ingredients to deliver visible results in fewer applications, which makes it especially perfect for those with mature skin seeking a stronger solution. It’s also infused with other potent ingredients like hyaluronic acid, niacinamide and collagen to hydrate, firm and brighten the under-eye area.
Moreover, the metal applicator is as advanced as it gets since it’s battery-operated. To use it, simply hold the cooling tip against your skin and it will automatically start vibrating, operating at 12,000 micro-vibrations per minute to speed up the absorption process.
“I’m loving this cream,” one five-star reviewer wrote. “Im pairing it with under eyes masks 2xs a day and its really reversed my fine lines! for 2 years I’ve been trying to keep them under control but this pairing has really made a difference. I like the applicator and the feeling of the buzz. Will repurchase.”
BEST KOREAN EYE CREAM WITH PEPTIDES
Cosrx Snail Peptide Eye Cream, $24 (down from $55) at Amazon Australia
Why we love it: Backed by thousands of five-star reviews, this beginner-friendly formula is made with 72 per cent snail secretion to soothe, hydrate and brighten.
What to consider: The opaque pump bottle makes it difficult to see how much product is left inside.
Key ingredients: Snail secretion filtrate, niacinamide and panthenol | Skin type: Sensitive skin | Size: 25ml
What You Need To Know
Cosrx’s best-selling Snail Mucin serum is one of the few products that put Korean beauty on the Western world’s map, so it goes without saying that the accompanying eye cream is a must-try, too.
Making up 72 per cent of this formula, snail mucin is packed with a concoction of glycoproteins, hyaluronic acid, glycolic acid, copper peptides and antimicrobial peptides. All of these come with a myriad of skin-loving benefits, like hydration, brightening, soothing and antiageing. Basically, it’s the all-rounder ingredient anyone new to the world of eye creams will thrive off of. The remaining 28 per cent is comprised of niacinamide to brighten, five types of peptides to increase collagen production and panthenol to soothe.
With over 3.4k five-star ratings on Amazon alone for a product that will only set you back less than $25 when it’s on sale, you’d be silly not to add it to cart.
“From the moment I put it on around my eyes I could feel it working, a kind of pulling sensation,” one of the thousands of five-star reviewers wrote. “I can definitely see a difference in the lines around my eyes. Not greasy.”
Another person added: “This is an excellent eye cream, lightweight, creamy & spreads easily. A little goes a long way. Use it every night & it will soften fine lines & wrinkles. Wearing it overnight works best! No scent & absorbed into my skin quickly!”
BEST KOREAN EYE CREAM FOR DARK CIRCLES
Acwell Licorice pH Balancing Intensive Anti-Wrinkle Eye Cream, $34.50 at Amazon Australia
Why we love it: An antioxidant-rich cream that improves the appearance of dark circles and hyperpigmentation around the eye area in only a few weeks.
What to consider: Its anti-ageing benefits may be limited. Some reviewers also admitted they didn’t see any huge improvements to their dark circles however, patience is key with this cream.
Key ingredients: Licorice water, licorice extract, glutathione, blueberry fruit extract, Bifida ferment extract and caffeine | Skin type: All skin types | Size: 30ml
What You Need To Know
While no eye cream is going to magically banish dark under-eye circles overnight, the Acwell Licorice pH Balancing Intensive Anti-Wrinkle Eye Cream will make visible changes in a few weeks with consistent use. It’s all thanks to the addition of licorice water and licorice extract, both key ingredients found in many Korean skincare ingredients that aim to regulate melanin production and help treat hyperpigmentation issues, like sun damage and melasma. To add to this brightening duo, the formula also contains caffeine, glutathione and antioxidants, which are all known to help improve the look of discolouration and promote an even skin tone.
While the consistency may feel rich upon application, the non-pore-clogging formula will quickly sink into your skin barrier and sit beautifully under makeup.
“Hands down one of the best eye creams I’ve ever used,” one five-star reviewer wrote. “You can feel it tightening your fine lines as it dries down. I have always struggled with dark under-eye circles and this is the first eye cream (out of hundreds, I’m an esthetician/makeup artist) to noticeably make a difference within the first 2-3 weeks of using. It provides great moisture as well. Also the price can’t be beat! I’m still on my first tube and I’ve had it for 4 months.”
BEST KOREAN EYE CREAM FOR SENSITIVE SKIN
SKIN1004 Madagascar Centella Probio-Cica Bakuchiol Eye Cream, $22 at Amazon Australia
Why we love it: This lightweight and fast-absorbing cream from the viral K-beauty brand SKIN1004, is formulated with Centella asiatica extract to gently calm and hydrate.
What to consider: May be too gentle for mature skin.
Key ingredients: Centella asiatica extract, bakuchiol, madecassoside and ceramides | Skin type: Dry, normal and sensitive | Size: 20ml
What You Need To Know
SKIN1004 hasn’t been around for long but the 100 per cent vegan brand has quickly made a huge mark in the competitive Korean beauty industry. Their extensive range of quality products are especially loved by those with sensitive skin because of the inclusion of a key ingredient, Centella asiatica extract. This plant-based ingredient is adored for its soothing, hydrating and anti-inflammatory properties, and can be found in this best-selling eye cream. Along with Centella, bakuchiol (vegan retinol), low-molecular collagen and hyaluronic acid, all make an appearance to improve skin elasticity and diminish fine lines and wrinkles.
“I’ve been using the product for more than a month now and damn my eye bag and dark circles improved so much. It is lightweight and definitely hydrating,” one five-star Amazon reviewer wrote.
Another person added: “This is the only eye cream I have found that doesn’t irritate my ridiculously sensitive eyes/skin. Usually I can never put eye creams around my eyes because they will eventually start watering and I’ll have to wipe off the cream. This is the only one I have found that can get super close to my eyes and they have no problem.”
BEST BAKUCHIOL KOREAN EYE CREAM
Haruharu Wonder Black Rice Bakuchiol Eye Cream, $13.85 (down from $33.50) at Beauty Amora
Why we love it: If you can’t tolerate retinol but you’re after a cream with the same benefits, opt for this gentle formula from Haruharu, which is formulated with retinal alternative bakuchiol.
What to consider: May take a few weeks to see visible results.
Key ingredients: Bakuchiol, fermented black rice, niacinamide and Panax ginseng root extract | Skin type: Sensitive | Size: 20ml
What You Need To Know
Retinol is certainly not everyone’s cup of tea, which is where bakuchiol comes into play. Making a star appearance in this gel-like cream, this vegan alternative ingredient offers the same benefits as retinol – think: stimulates collagen production, delivers antioxidant care, targets signs of ageing and improves the overall appearance of skin – but without irritation or sensitivity.
Plus, unlike retinol-based skincare products, the formula can be used in the evening and morning. It’s also a bonus that it layers incredibly well under concealer.
“I love this eye cream,” one five-star reviewer wrote. “It has a gel consistency and so it glides on beautifully. It’s very hydrating and brightening. I use this as my day eye cream and will happily purchase again.”
Another person simply added: “Game changer for tired, dull eyes!!”
BEST KOREAN EYE CREAM FOR WRINKLES AND CROW’S FEET
Sulwhasoo Concentrated Ginseng Renewing Eye Cream, $185 at Sephora
Why we love it: A potent anti-ageing cream that’s powered by antioxidant-rich Korean ginseng, to alleviates major wrinkle-related concerns around the eyes and smooth texture.
What to consider: Its price may be out of budget for some.
Key ingredients: Ginseng saponin, ginseng retinol and licorice root extract | Skin type: Combination, dry, normal and oily |Size: 20ml
What You Need To Know
Sure, the Sulwhasoo Concentrated Ginseng Renewing Eye Cream is a splurge, but you’ll notice why it’s worth every cent the moment the rich formula touches your skin.
Ginseng, the brand’s signature ingredient, and retinol make star appearances in this formula, which are combined to reduce the number and depth of wrinkles and fines — and prevent them further from developing. You’ll also find other ingredients inside this dermatologist-approved product, like licorice root extract and peptides to hydrate, revitalise and brighten.
It also comes with a luxurious metal tip applicator, which is perfect to keep on hand when you’re after a cooling effect.
“Bought this eye cream because i started developing under eye wrinkles and many other products didn’t help,” one five-star reviewer wrote on the Sephora website. “This eye cream actually really works for those wrinkles. I’m very happy with its efficacy and now I’m an sulwhasoo fan.:”
BEST TINTED KOREAN EYE CREAM
Shaishaishai Banana Conceal Eye Cream, $38.06 (down from $47.58) at Yesstyle
Why we love it: A concealer eye cream formulated with 90 per cent eye cream and 10 per cent concealer that helps cover dark circles while helping reduce the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines around the eyes.
What to consider: Only provides light, natural coverage. A proper full-coverage concealer is needed to completely cover dark circles.
Key ingredients: Banana fruit extract, collagen, adenosine and panthenol | Skin type: All skin types | Size: 15g
What You Need To Know
Is it an eye cream? Is it a concealer? Well, it’s both.
In case you’re not aware, this tinted banana-based eye cream has been one the most talked about products in 2024 and has earned a permanent spot in thousands of beauty enthusiasts’ skincare routines.
Dermatologically tested as non-irritative, this sensitive skin-safe cream boasts 48-hour moisture retention and a light tint to naturally cover dark circles and blemishes, all while blurring wrinkles and fine lines. The best bit? It doesn’t crease under makeup, even after hours of wear. Instead, it leaves you looking glowy, refreshed and well-rested.
“It also moisturises while correcting colour, so it’s very easy to use,” one five-star reviewer wrote on the official Olive Young website. “Normal concealer dries easily, but with this, you can apply makeup without drying out under your eyes.”
Another person wrote: “This concealer seems to keep the under-eye area looking wrinkle-free all day when applied before makeup and followed by foundation. It’s gentle on the skin and can be applied like an eye cream, which I really like.”
BEST DEPUFFING KOREAN EYE CREAM FOR MORNING USE
Innisfree Green Tea Caffeine Bright-Eye Serum 10ml, $35 at Adore Beauty
Why we love it: The applicator is designed with a cooling massage rollerball that evenly dispenses the refreshing, lightweight serum to help depuff and brighten.
What to consider: Some reviewers with sensitive skin experienced a slight irritation. Ensure you patch-test the product first.
Key ingredients: Green tea, caffeine, niacinamide and hyaluronic acid | Skin type: Dry, normal, oily and combination | Size: 10ml
What You Need To Know
Eye treatments designed with a rollerball applicator are especially great for those who deal with inflammation under the eyes as they help depuff and cool.
This one from Innisfree is more than just a fancy applicator; the gel-like formula contains green tea, an ingredient famous for its proven anti-inflammatory properties. This is then fortified with the addition of caffeine and niacinamide, which can make tired eyes look like they’ve received eight hours of peaceful sleep, even after a big night out.
“I absolutely LOVE this eye cream! I have been using it in the mornings and have noticed my eyes look less puffy and more energised,” exclaimed one five-star reviewer. “I have sensitive eyes, yet this formula didn’t irritate my eyes (probably because of the alcohol/fragrance free formula). The gel is lightweight, smooth and unscented; applies white but becomes clear. The packaging is simple but chic, I adore the cooling eye roller as the application (like WOW!!), Very easy to use and easy to travel with.”
WHAT TO LOOK FOR WHEN BUYING A KOREAN EYE CREAM
Whether or not you’re specifically looking for an eye cream from a Korean beauty brand, the right product will depend on your skin type and specific skin concerns. When choosing the eye creams in our list, we evaluated several factors:
Skin type: If you have oily skin, opt for an oil-free cream or serum. If you have dry skin, look for a more hydrating eye cream. If you have combination skin, choose an eye cream that’s suitable for both oily and dry skin. If you have acne-prone skin, it’s best to use an eye cream that’s safe for sensitive skin and free from fragrances and oils.
Ingredients: Eye creams contain different ingredients to target different concerns. For example, a cream or serum formulated with retinol, retinal or bakuchiol will reduce and prevent lines and wrinkles, making them go-to ingredients to look for in anti-ageing eye creams. Products formulated with hyaluronic acid and ceramides work best for dry and irritated skin, while ingredients like niacinamide, kojic acid, ferulic acid, ginseng, licorice extract and vitamins C and E are great for brightening skin and decreasing swelling and puffiness.
Texture: How do you want it to feel on your skin? A gel-based eye cream will be lightweight and cooling, a rich cream will feel more nourishing and a serum will absorb quicker.
Price: Eye creams are available at every price point, ranging from super affordable to shockingly expensive. However, a higher price tag doesn’t necessarily translate to a more effective formula. Instead, focus on looking for a product that contains the right ingredients for your eye goals and is backed by five-star reviews. The great thing about Korean eye creams is that they’re generally less expensive than those from Western brands, without sacrificing effectiveness.
Applicator: Eye creams and serums come with different applicators. For example, pumps, rollerballs and pots with separate wands. Rollerballs are generally designed for thinner serums and offer a great hygienic option for travel and those on the go. Pumps and pots typically house thicker creams and gels.
HOW WE CHOOSE OUR PRODUCTS
With hundreds of Korean eye creams available, it’s impossible to test every product out there. So, we narrowed our selection down to testing well-known brands at different prices to help you find the best Korean eye creams. In addition, our shopping team read hundreds of customer reviews and looked at test results and ratings from product review sites to find the best eye creams from Korean beauty brands.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
WHAT DO KOREANS USE FOR DARK UNDER EYES?
Korean skincare is known for its carefully formulated and effective ingredients. For dark under-eye circles, Koreans often rely on a combination of hydrating ingredients, brightening agents and anti-ageing formulas that help reduce pigmentation and puffiness, and assist with thickening thin skin.
Here are some common ingredients Korean beauty routines incorporate to address dark circles:
Vitamin C: In Korea, vitamin C is often used to address hyperpigmentation and dark circles caused by sun damage or melanin production.
Niacinamide (vitamin B3): This is one of the most popular ingredients in Korean skincare for brightening and evening out skin tone. It reduces melanin production, which can help with the dark pigmentation that causes dark circles.
Bakuchiol: This natural alternative to retinol stimulates cell turnover and promotes a more even skin tone.
Panax ginseng: This Asian herb is used in Korean skincare to improve blood circulation, which can reduce the appearance of dark circles, especially those caused by slow circulation.
Hyaluronic acid and glycerin: Hydrating ingredients are key in Korean skincare and are especially pivotal in eye products because a well-hydrated under-eye area is essential for brightening and reducing shadows.
Licorice extract: This naturally brightening agent inhibits melanin production and is frequently used in Korean skincare to address dark spots, hyperpigmentation and uneven skin tone.
Caffeine: Korean eye products often use caffeine to reduce under-eye bags and make dark circles less pronounced as it helps decongest the area.
If you suffer from dark under eyes, this could be caused by a poor lifestyle and diet or a lack of sleep. However, if improving your lifestyle and using a good eye cream don’t help, your dark under-eyes could be inherited or a sign of an underlying health condition. If this is the case, you should seek advice from a dermatologist or other medical doctor.
WHAT IS A GOOD KOREAN EYE CREAM?
Like we’ve mentioned before, the Korean beauty industry is fast-paced, saturated and comes with intense competition, so the brands and products that do gain recognition in Korea and overseas really are the best of the best.
If you’re on the hunt for a good Korean eye cream, it can be difficult to shift through the thousands of products available and understand what’s really worth the hype. That’s why we’ve done the hard work for you and selected the ones that are worthy of investing in, which we’ve rounded up in this guide. Our list covers a range of formulas, textures, applicators and price points, so you can find the best one for you and your concerns.
WHAT IS THE CORRECT WAY TO APPLY EYE CREAM?
The skin around your eye is delicate and thin so when applying an eye cream, you want to avoid rubbing or pulling at the skin. It should also be applied before moisturiser (and sunscreen in the morning) but after toners, essences and serums. This is because eye cream is light and heavier formulas should always go on last.
Now that’s sorted, you can follow these simple steps to get the most out of your eye cream:
With clean hands, dispense a pea-sized amount of your eye cream or serum onto your ring finger.
Dot the product around your eye, starting in the innermost corner and moving outward. Avoid applying the product too close to your lash line. If your eye cream has its own applicator, use the included applicator instead to apply your product.
Lightly pat the cream in with your middle finger (again, do not rub or tug your eye area) until the product is fully absorbed.
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Follow with heavier creams.
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