I’m tired. You’re tired. We’re all tired.
While we figure out how to get eight hours of uninterrupted shut-eye and formulate some healthy nighttime screen habits, we’ve been on the hunt for hydrating eye creams that can help reduce puffiness, fine lines and wrinkles, as well as our giant under-eye bags.
But here’s the thing – finding a cheap eye cream that actually works is super hard.
While there are loads of expensive formulations that definitely work the trick they’re not exactly affordable, especially in the week before payday.
So we’ve been testing out a few more affordable options on our tired little under-eyes, and have found these cheaper products definitely make a massive difference.
Ole Henriksen Banana Bright Eye Crème, $63 at Sephora
This is a cult-favourite eye cream that constantly sells out at Sephora, thanks to its vitamin C-packed formula that can help reduce dark circles.
It’s a great eye cream to wear during the day because the formula is not too greasy or oily, making it easy to apply your makeup over the top.
FYI, if you’ve been trying to get the men in your life to be more diligent with their skincare, this product could be great for them.
It sinks into the skin well, so it doesn’t look like they’re wearing anything at all, plus it smells amazing – like orange juice.
Paula’s Choice Resist Anti-Aging Eye Cream, $55 at Amazon
American skincare guru Paula Begoun is the brains behind her wildly successful eponymous skincare label, which is all about delivering science-backed ingredients for the most affordable price possible.
This eye cream contains shea butter, vitamin C and the popular antioxidant resveratrol, to brighten and hydrate lacklustre under-eyes.
The Inkey List Caffeine eye cream, $19 at Sephora
The inclusion of caffeine in skincare products is a new trend that has emerged over the past few years.
Because caffeine is a diuretic, it can help to reduce water retention under the eyes, a major cause of puffiness.
The addition of squalane, a popular hydrating ingredient and a small amount of hyaluronic acid, means this gel-like formula is also super moisturising.
The Ordinary Caffeine Solution 5% + EGCG, $14 at The Ordinary
This popular caffeine eye serum from budget skincare brand The Ordinary is delivered in a dropper bottle, meaning the formulation stays fresh and preserved from the elements.
Plus, it lasts for ages!
Kiehl’s Creamy Eye Treatment With Avocado, $62 at Kiehl’s
This eye cream is a cult classic, thanks to it’s uber-hydrating formula.
You only need a little bit, so that tiny pot can last you for months and months, making it a worthwhile investment.
Kiehl’s Powerful Wrinkle Reducing Eye Cream, $74 at Kiehl’s
This anti-ageing product seeks to target areas to promote elasticity and reduce puffiness. It promises that the cream will work to diminish crows feet and fine lines over time for a more bright and fresh appearance.
The unique ingredients include copper PCA, which stabilises collagen, calcium PCA to reduce the damage to collagen fibers, and caffeine to brighten the eye.
Innisfree Jeju Orchid Eye Cream, $45 at Adore Beauty
Korean skincare is one of the best choices on the market, and this Innisfree product is a great antioxidant power that will keep your eyes young.
It’s made up of a rich consistency that targets fine lines and wrinkles.
Weleda Pomegranate Firming Eye Cream, $42.95 at Adore Beauty
Weleda is the French brand of choice for those of us who are obsessed with hydration, and this delicate product infuses the skin with antioxidants, and it’s fragrance-free, which is a bonus.
Plus, this is a good choice for vegans.