Derms Say These Undereye Gel Patches Smooth Wrinkles (2024)

Derms Say These Undereye Gel Patches Smooth Wrinkles (1)

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After a long week, there’s nothing better than sipping a glass of wine, putting on your favorite show, and slapping on some soothing under-eye masks. It’s no secret that there’s a certain self-care ~vibe~ that comes with wearing eye patches, but it turns out that they’re actually super beneficial for your skin, too.

“Skin under the eyes is prone to changes related to aging skin, such as fine lines, and conditions like dryness and discoloration,” says dermatologist Brendan Camp, MD. Like your favorite eye cream for wrinkles, a little extra TLC from undereye patches can serve as a helpful form of preventative care that targets these issues.

The Best Undereye Gel Patches

But where eye masks really get their power is from their ingredients, some of which are typically hyaluronic acid, vitamin C, niacinamide, and caffeine. “Eye patches incorporate key ingredients like hyaluronic acid to boost moisture, peptides to firm, ceramides to strengthen the skin barrier, caffeine to help reduce puffiness, and niacinamide to reduce discoloration,” says dermatologist Marisa Garshik, MD.

Ahead, check out the nine best undereye masks for every skin concern. To find the best ones, Women's Health consulted with a board of five dermatologists and sought product testers to try the masks themselves. Our intrepid beauty team, who has also tested dozens of under-eye masks for the past year, also offered their picks.

What to consider

Key ingredients

As with any beauty product, there are always a few things to consider before making the investment. Since these masks are mostly advertised for their ability to soothe and hydrate your undereyes, you'll want a formula that can back up the claims.

For starters, look for key ingredients such as aloe, chamomile, cucumber, green tea, glycerin, or hyaluronic acid, says WH beauty director Brian Underwood. He also notes that while you're less likely to find ingredients such as vitamin C and retinol in the patches, it's a plus if you do.

Concerned about the patches sliding? Keep an eye out for patches with a cellulose gel material so that they'll adhere to the contours of the undereye better.

Benefits

Not only is the skin under your eyes thinner and more delicate than in other areas of your face, it’s also where lymphatic fluid drainage occurs, says dermatologist Lauren Penzi, MD. It can also show more blood vessels, and in turn, make dark circles appear more visible, Dr. Garshick notes.

Most eye masks are created to reduce fine lines, undereye darkness, and wrinkles while giving your skin the boost of moisture it needs. "The overall effect of these patches is to revive and hydrate," says Underwood. "This is why so many people (myself included) love bringing them on planes, especially for longer overnight flights—they can help you emerge with a more refreshed look after being stuck in low-humidity air for so long."

He adds that many people complain about looking tired, but eye patches are a nice quick fix. Still, it's important to be realistic about the kind of results you'll get in just one or two uses. So, you’ll want to zero in on the reason you’re buying patches, says Dr. Camp. “For example, if you are concerned about puffiness, you may be looking for a product that you can use in the morning before starting your day. In that case, look for ingredients like caffeine or green tea.

How we chose

For the past few months, Women’s Health editors, including our editorial assistant Sabrina Talbert, assistant love & life editor Addison Aloian, and associate style & commerce editor Lily Wohlner, vetted the bestselling, top-rated undereye gel patches. Our team consulted five dermatologists and WH beauty director Brian Underwood. They then sought testers to narrow down the best undereye gel patches for a wide range of needs and preferences.

So what are you waiting for? It's time to brighten those undereyes ASAP.

Best Overall Undereye Gel Patch

Wander Beauty Baggage Claim Rose Gold Eye Masks

Pros
  • Derms Say These Undereye Gel Patches Smooth Wrinkles (10)Made with many hard-hitting ingredients
  • Derms Say These Undereye Gel Patches Smooth Wrinkles (11)Helps with undereye puffiness in the morning
  • Derms Say These Undereye Gel Patches Smooth Wrinkles (12)Super light and flexible construction
  • Derms Say These Undereye Gel Patches Smooth Wrinkles (13)Dermatologist-approved
Cons
  • Derms Say These Undereye Gel Patches Smooth Wrinkles (14)May not be the best option for sensitive skin

We tried tons of undereye masks, and this one takes the cake for our all-time favorite. Why? It's the most hydrating option on this list and it doesn't slip off your face, which we feel is super hard to find in an undereye mask.

ICYMI, Wander Beauty basically started the undereye mask trend. This OG mask is made with peptides, amino acids, and hyaluronic acid to improve your skin's texture, tone, and hydration. It's also expert-approved by Garshik and dermatologist Dendy Engelman, MD.

"I love that this mask is made with three different layers that allow the formula to penetrate the skin deeply and prevent it from sliding off the face, so you can multitask while you wear it," says Dr. Engelman.

Many testers who tried this mask say it helps improve the look of morning undereye puffiness (big ups!). But, we found that leaving the mask in the fridge results in even more of a smoothing experience. However, those with more sensitive skin report having occasional redness with this mask when using it after the fridge.

Another pro? We love the construction of this mask, as the material is super light and flexible versus the conventional plastic material found in a lot of other eye patches we tried.

Read More: Best Retinol Eye Creams

Key IngredientsHyaluronic acid, aloe leaf extract, amino acids
Count6
BenefitsSoothes and reduces redness, soothes inflammation, helps brighten skin, contains anti-aging properties, improves skin tone and texture

Best Undereye Gel Patch For Dark Circles

Patchology Serve Chilled Rosé Eye Gels

Derms Say These Undereye Gel Patches Smooth Wrinkles (15)

Derms Say These Undereye Gel Patches Smooth Wrinkles (16)

Cons
  • Derms Say These Undereye Gel Patches Smooth Wrinkles (19)It slips off the face easier than other patches we've tried

I would be remiss if I didn't mention my personal fave patch from Patchology. It contains hyaluronic acid (hi, hydrated, plump skin) and feels super cool under the eyes to de-puff and smooth out that area.

"This gel patch is ideal for those looking to decrease signs of aging around the eye area," says dermatologist Anar Mikailov, MD. He mentions that there's resveratrol, a natural antioxidant found in grapes that helps improve barrier function, and other antioxidants that provide protection against oxidizing agents that can age the skin.

Our testers say that, after using this patch, they've noticed a reduction in puffiness, wrinkles, and discoloration near the eyes. But, one con they noticed was that the mask can tend to slide out of place after a while, which knocked it down a few points on our list.

Key IngredientsResveratrol, strawberry extract, hyaluronic acid
Count5
BenefitsImproves skin hydration, protects against environmental stressors, and may smooth the appearance of fine lines

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Best Undereye Gel Patch For Glowing Undereyes

Live Tinted Rays Copper Eye Masks

Derms Say These Undereye Gel Patches Smooth Wrinkles (20)

Pros
  • Derms Say These Undereye Gel Patches Smooth Wrinkles (21)Adds a subtle glow to the undereyes
  • Derms Say These Undereye Gel Patches Smooth Wrinkles (22)Allows for easier makeup application
  • Derms Say These Undereye Gel Patches Smooth Wrinkles (23)Stimulates collagen production
Cons
  • Derms Say These Undereye Gel Patches Smooth Wrinkles (24)According to our tester, it can slip down the face

Our testers are loving these eye masks from Live Tinted. Why? They're packed with copper peptides and banana extract to reduce puffiness and smooth fine lines. Some testers saw noticeable results, like less puffiness, after using them consistently for just a month.

WH assistant love and life editor Addison Aloian also chimes in, adding that this patch allows for an easier makeup application process because it makes the skin feel so smooth. It also leaves skin looking glowy and feeling hydrated. "Not only is the patch super cute—it's shaped like a sun—but it also genuinely hydrates and brighten my undereye area," she says.

Dr. Mikailov says that, along with a mix of peptides to help stimulate collagen production, this eye mask contains niacinamide, bakuchiol, caffeine, and Vitamin C. He explains that bakuchiol is a great retinol alternative that helps stimulate collagen production.

WH Associate fashion and commerce editor Lily Wohlner also gave this patch a try and loves how flexible it is under the eye. However, she did note that it does tend to slip down the face because it's super thin.

Key IngredientsTriple complex copper peptides, banana extract, bakuchiol
Count5
BenefitsBrightens, hydrates, de-puffs, reduces fine lines and wrinkles

Thickest Undereye Gel Patch

Grace & Stella Energizing Eye Mask

Derms Say These Undereye Gel Patches Smooth Wrinkles (25)

Derms Say These Undereye Gel Patches Smooth Wrinkles (26)

Now 34% Off

Pros
  • Derms Say These Undereye Gel Patches Smooth Wrinkles (27)Comes with a lot of serum
  • Derms Say These Undereye Gel Patches Smooth Wrinkles (28)Reduces dark circles and puffiness
  • Derms Say These Undereye Gel Patches Smooth Wrinkles (29)Has a cooling feel
Cons
  • Derms Say These Undereye Gel Patches Smooth Wrinkles (30)Needs to be left on for 20 minutes

In our experience, this undereye mask is basically an expert at reducing dark circles and fine lines. And, you can thank hydrating hyaluronic acid for that. Plus, this mask has a cooling feel, so it helps with puffiness and tired-looking eyes too.

Brighter skin, dark circles, and puffiness are just a few perks that us testers love after using the mask consistently. Side note: this option comes with a lot of serum, so it may slip down your face over time. But, you can use the extra serum in the bag to apply under the eye for lasting hydration while you snooze or to wear under your makeup.

Need even more convincing? We've seen Jessica Alba post about this mask on her Instagram story time and time again, noting that she's a major fan.

Most masks on this list only need 10 minutes on the skin, but this one takes 20 minutes to fully deliver results. We usually opt for the shorter duration since we're often pressed for time. However, 20 minutes does fly by when you have a good book in hand (pro tip!).

Key IngredientsHydrolyzed vegetable protein, hyaluronic acid, glycerin
Count6
BenefitsMinimizes the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, plumps and hydrates skin, prevents dark circles

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Best Undereye Gel Patch For Reducing Signs Of Aging

Peter Thomas Roth Potent-C Power Brightening Hydra-Gels

Pros
  • Derms Say These Undereye Gel Patches Smooth Wrinkles (32)Easy to apply
  • Derms Say These Undereye Gel Patches Smooth Wrinkles (33)Great at targeting surface spots, per Dr. Mikailov
Cons
  • Derms Say These Undereye Gel Patches Smooth Wrinkles (34)Pricey, but derms say it's worth it

This vitamin C-packed eye patch is perfect for helping brighten up the undereye area while reducing signs of aging and puffiness with the help of caffeine.

Yeah, it's a little pricier, but our testers say it's totally worth it if you have the budget. Many of them agree that the gel patch is also easy to apply. Plus, our testers say that the patch reduced discoloration and fine lines within just a few weeks.

Derms also deem this patch worth the money. "The key ingredient in this mask is THD Ascorbate Vitamin C, which is 50 times more powerful than other forms of vitamin C," says Dr. Engelman. Dr. Mikailov adds that this is especially good for surface dark spots that need brightening rather than deeper dark circles.

Read More: Best Eye Creams For Wrinkles

Key IngredientsTHD ascorbate vitamin C, vitamin E, ferulic acid, caffeine
Count60
BenefitsReduces the appearance of fines lines, puffiness, and wrinkles

Best Microneedle Undereye Gel Patch

Skyn Iceland Dissolving Microneedle Eye Patches

Derms Say These Undereye Gel Patches Smooth Wrinkles (35)

Pros
  • Derms Say These Undereye Gel Patches Smooth Wrinkles (36)Super tech-forward
  • Derms Say These Undereye Gel Patches Smooth Wrinkles (37)Comfortable to wear for long periods of time
Cons
  • Derms Say These Undereye Gel Patches Smooth Wrinkles (38)Need to be worn for two-plus hours

This option just might be one of the most tech-forward eye patches we've seen. It features bioactive dissolving microneedles (yup!) that are filled with hard-hitting ingredients that melt down into the skin's surface layers to hydrate and firm. The ingredients in question? Hyaluronic acid to deeply hydrate and a hexapeptide complex to combat wrinkles.

During testing, we found that that the spikes on the patch are def noticeable, but not super prickly to the point of discomfort. As the brand notes, you feel a slight tickle upon application, which is how you know it's working.

You have to wear this patch for at least two hours, and you can even wear it overnight to increase absorption. As we mentioned with the Grace & Stella pads, we prefer patches that work harder in shorter increments of time, as wearing something heavy under the eyes for long periods can get uncomfortable. We feel similarly when it comes to this patch, however this option is extremely lightweight, so we feel more comfortable wearing it for longer. One other con: We wish it came with more patches than just one for $18. However, you can opt for the eight pack, which is $144 (pricey, we know).

Key IngredientsHyaluronic acid, peptides
Count1
BenefitsHydrates, firms, and smoothes the undereye area

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Best Undereye Gel Patches After A Sleepless Night

Peace Out Puffy Under-Eye Patches

Pros
  • Derms Say These Undereye Gel Patches Smooth Wrinkles (40)Reduce puffiness and dark circles
  • Derms Say These Undereye Gel Patches Smooth Wrinkles (41)Biodegradable
  • Derms Say These Undereye Gel Patches Smooth Wrinkles (42)Dermatologist-recommended
Cons
  • Derms Say These Undereye Gel Patches Smooth Wrinkles (43)Can slip down the face
  • Derms Say These Undereye Gel Patches Smooth Wrinkles (44)Its large size makes it feel a bit bulky

As the name suggests, this patch is meant to soothe tired-looking eyes. So, for those of you who have a lot of sleepless nights, this is your winner. Infused with caffeine, niacinamide, and hyaluronic acid, dozens of our testers say it reduces puffiness and dark circles. And, they say they notice an even bigger difference when used straight out of the fridge.

"I often recommend Peace Out’s acne patch for the face, but I also love the brand’s eye patches," says Dr. Engelman. "It's so effective at quickly bringing down puffiness and brightening and smoothing the under-eyes." She adds that the patch is biodegradable and made with biocellulose, which helps the formula deeply penetrate the skin.

WH assistant beauty editor Sabrina Talbert also gave this patch a test, and said it totes delivered on her high expectations. "The patch was super easy to apply and fit snuggly under my eyes," she says. Another pro? It wasn't completely soaked in serum, as that sometimes makes the process a bit messy. "This one had just the right amount, which also meant that it didn't slide off my face while I was using it."

Talbert also has very sensitive skin, so she's always cautious when it comes to trying things out, but this didn't give her any issues. "It also didn’t have much of a scent, which put my mind at ease since fragrance tends to be an early indicator that my skin might not like a product."

Like many other patches, this option can tend to slide down the face, so it's best worn while lying down. The patch is also on the larger side, which makes it feel a bit bulky.

Key IngredientsCaffeine, niacinamide, hyaluronic acid
Count6
BenefitsHydrates skin, reduces the appearance of puffiness and dark circles

Most Splurge-Worthy Undereye Gel Patches

111SKIN Celestial Black Diamond Eye Mask

Derms Say These Undereye Gel Patches Smooth Wrinkles (45)

Derms Say These Undereye Gel Patches Smooth Wrinkles (46)

Pros
  • Derms Say These Undereye Gel Patches Smooth Wrinkles (47)Sticks to your skin
  • Derms Say These Undereye Gel Patches Smooth Wrinkles (48)Hyaluronic acid plumps skin
  • Derms Say These Undereye Gel Patches Smooth Wrinkles (49)Treats fine lines and wrinkles
Cons
  • Derms Say These Undereye Gel Patches Smooth Wrinkles (50)Expensive, but testers and Underwood says its lasting power makes it worth it

If you're willing to make a bigger financial investment for some suuuper high-quality eye patches, look no further. Testers say the Celestial Black Diamond Eye Mask from 111SKIN is definitely worth the buzz (and the $$). It contains retinol, which increases cellular turnover and helps treat fine lines, wrinkles, and dehydration. Plus, there's also the holy grail, hyaluronic acid, in the formula.

If you need more convincing, WH editors swear by this mask. “So many undereye gels flop off, but this one really sticks onto your skin and adds moisture," says WH beauty director Brian Underwood. "I take it on planes, and it's very plumping because of the hyaluronic acid."

While you don't have to leave this mask on for hours like the Skyn Iceland option, the brand recommends letting it sit for 20 minutes, which, in beauty editor time, feels like hours. We wish the mask did its thing in a shorter amount of time, like many of the other options on this list.

Key IngredientsRetinol, hyaluronic acid
Count8
BenefitsImproves cell turnover, reduces appearance of fine lines and wrinkles

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Best Brightening Undereye Gel Patches

Topicals Faded Brightening Under Eye Masks

Pros
  • Derms Say These Undereye Gel Patches Smooth Wrinkles (52)Acids brighten the skin
  • Derms Say These Undereye Gel Patches Smooth Wrinkles (53)Does not cause dryness or irritation
Cons
  • Derms Say These Undereye Gel Patches Smooth Wrinkles (54)We wish there were more patches in the box for the price, however we love that the patches are reusable

Yes, a lot of products on this list are known to brighten, but this mask from Faded features both kojic acid and tranexamic acid, which brighten and treat discoloration on the skin. Both ingredients are known to help with pigmentation concerns, so you can rest assured that bright undereyes are on the horizon with these babies.

After a few weeks of using this patch twice weekly, our tester says she noticed a huge change in her dark circles. Plus, she notes that it sticks to her face super well, even after reusing it. (Yup all patches are reusable, so you really get a bang for your buck.) Lastly, our tester told us she experienced no dryness or sensitivity with this patch.

One con to note: For the price, we do wish there were more patches in the box.

Key IngredientsKojic acid, tranexamic acid, caffeine, niacinamide
Count6
BenefitsBrightens, depuffs, and smooths the undereye area

Derms Say These Undereye Gel Patches Smooth Wrinkles (55)

Meet the experts

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See more of the best at-home eye treatments

Eye Creams for Dark Circles | Anti-Aging Eye Creams | Drugstore Eye Creams | Eye Serums | Retinol Eye Creams | Eye Creams For Wrinkles

Derms Say These Undereye Gel Patches Smooth Wrinkles (57)

Addison Aloian

Assistant Love & Life Editor

Addison Aloian is the assistant love & life editor at Women’s Health and a NASM-certified personal trainer (CPT). She covers all things lifestyle, astrology, relationships, and fitness. In her free time, you can find her lifting weights at the gym, running on the West Side Highway in New York City, and watching (and critiquing!) the latest movies that have garnered Oscars buzz. In addition to Women's Health, her work has also appeared in Allure, StyleCaster, L'Officiel USA, V Magazine, VMAN, and more.

Derms Say These Undereye Gel Patches Smooth Wrinkles (58)

Sabrina Talbert

Editorial Assistant

Sabrina is an editorial assistant for Women’s Health. When she’s not writing, you can find her running, training in mixed martial arts, or reading.

Derms Say These Undereye Gel Patches Smooth Wrinkles (59)

Reviewed byBrian Underwood

Beauty Director

Brian Underwood is the beauty director at Women’s Health. He is an award-winning journalist with more than 15 years of experience covering beauty and lifestyle for several national media outlets and previously served as beauty and wellness director at Oprah Daily. His work has appeared in Woman’s Day, Life & Style Weekly, Good Housekeeping, and many more. He also serves as a member of the Skin Cancer Foundation’s gala committee and lives in New York City with his daughter.

Derms Say These Undereye Gel Patches Smooth Wrinkles (2024)
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