Is Eye Cream Necessary Or Just Expensive Moisturiser? Here’s What You Should Know

For someone who doesn’t use eye cream, I’d say I have a pretty complicated relationship with my skin. It’s combination most of the time, but it can get sensitive out of nowhere. I’ve tried eye creams before, and the results weren’t great. I ended up with irritation around my eyes, and it wasn't a pleasant experience. Since then, I just stopped thinking about eye cream altogether. But part of me still wonders… do I really need one, or is my regular moisturiser enough? Let’s break it down.

What makes eye cream different?

Eye creams usually have a lighter texture than moisturisers, so they absorb faster without feeling heavy. Many are also formulated with ingredients that specifically target puffiness, dark circles, and fine lines around the eyes.

Eye skin vs. face skin

It might seem like all the skin on your face is the same, but the eye area is unique. The skin under and around your eyes is thinner, more sensitive, and quicker to show dryness, wrinkles, and irritation. That’s why it often needs products that are gentle yet effective, rather than the heavier creams you’d use elsewhere.

Can your regular moisturiser do the same job?

Yes, you can use moisturiser around your eyes, as long as it’s gentle, fragrance-free, and not too thick. The skin around your eyes is extra delicate, so thick creams don’t always absorb well and can sometimes cause tiny bumps known as milia. Eye creams exist because they are lighter and target common eye concerns, but a lightweight, non-irritating moisturiser can do the job just as well.

A few tips if you go the moisturiser route:

• Choose one that’s non-comedogenic so it won’t clog pores
• Avoid strong fragrances or harsh actives near your eyes
• Apply a small amount using your ring finger and tap gently

When eye cream makes sense

If you’re bothered by puffiness, dark circles, or early wrinkles, then an eye cream might be worth trying. Look for formulas with caffeine for de-puffing, retinol for smoothing lines, or peptides to support firmness. These are targeted solutions you might not get from a regular moisturiser.

When not to use eye cream

Eye cream is not for everyone. If it stings, causes redness, or makes your eyes feel uncomfortable, it’s probably too strong for your skin type. Fragrance and high levels of actives can sometimes do more harm than good.

If you don’t have major concerns under your eyes, a simple, fragrance-free moisturiser can be more than enough, and saves you the extra step in your routine.

Things to keep in mind

Be careful with products not meant for the eye area. Strong actives like exfoliating acids can easily irritate the thin skin here. If you’re trying a new product, do a patch test first so you know how your skin reacts. And if you’re ever unsure, it’s best to check in with a dermatologist, they’ll know what’s right for your skin.

More skincare tips and beauty finds:

• Level Up Your Beauty Skills & Bring Home Freebies At These Beauty Pop-Ups And Events
• 10 Skincare Mistakes And Habits That Might Be Making Your Skin Worse
• 7 Face Mask & Sheet Mask Mistakes You’re Probably Making Without Realising
• Double Cleansing Isn’t Just for Makeup Wearers, Here's Why Your Skin Will Thank You For Adding This Step