The delicate skin around our eyes is very thin and sensitive. It often shows the earliest signs of ageing, stress, and fatigue, which makes it essential to give it some extra care. Using products designed specifically for this sensitive area is important. With the wide variety of products available, it can be confusing to determine which ones are best for your skin.
Eye creams and eye serums are two popular options, each promising to reduce puffiness, smooth fine lines, and brighten dark circles. But which one is right for you?
When it comes to skincare, especially targeting the soft eye area, understanding the difference between eye cream vs serum is essential. Both products have different purposes, and incorporating them wisely into your routine can help decrease signs of ageing, lessen puffiness, and fight weariness. Here's a closer look at their differences and how they work.
Eye Cream vs. Eye Serum
Eye Cream
Eye cream is a rich, moisturising formula designed specifically to hydrate the delicate under-eye area and fight signs of ageing and dryness. Its thicker texture helps form a protective barrier on the skin's surface, locking in moisture and shielding it from environmental factors.
The composition of eye creams often includes emollients to smooth and soften the skin, humectants to attract and retain moisture, and occlusives to seal hydration into the skin.
While eye creams may not deliver the quick penetration of active ingredients seen in serums, they often contain potent anti-ageing agents such as retinol or antioxidants to address fine lines and wrinkles effectively over time.
Eye Serum
An eye serum works much like regular facial serums but is specially made for the delicate skin around your eyes. In general, serums are known for their high concentration of ingredients combined with a low molecular weight, enabling them to penetrate the skin more rapidly in the areas where they are applied.
Typically, eye serums are much lighter in consistency and contain a more concentrated, targeted 'dose' of active ingredients compared to eye creams, which are created with a focus on providing nourishment. Common components found in eye serums include caffeine, antioxidants, and retinol, which assist with issues such as dark circles, sagging skin, and damage from environmental factors.
Check out our detailed guide to learn more about eye serum benefits for your overall eye health.
What's the Difference Between Eye Cream and Eye Serum?
The primary difference between an eye cream and an eye serum is their texture and purpose. Let's explore this in more detail.
1. Texture
Eye serums have a thin, fluid consistency and absorb quickly, which leaves little to no residue on the skin. In contrast, eye creams are richer and create a hydrating layer that stays on the surface longer.
2. Ingredients
Both serums and creams can include powerful active ingredients, but their formulations vary:
Common Ingredients in Eye Serums
- Plant-derived stem cells: Help soothe and protect the skin over time.
- Peptides: Reduce puffiness and improve skin texture.
- Caffeine: Helps diminish puffiness.
- Hyaluronic acid: Adds hydration and plumps the skin.
Common Ingredients in Eye Creams
- Plant cells: Firm the skin and reduce the appearance of fine lines.
- Cucumber extract: Soothes and calms sensitive areas.
- Mango seed butter: Moisturises and provides antioxidants.
- CoQ10: Protects against environmental stressors.
3. When to Use Them (AM/PM)
You can use both products in the same routine or separately, depending on your skincare needs:
Using Together:Apply your eye serum first (after your facial serum) to deliver concentrated ingredients. Follow with an eye cream to seal in moisture, and finish with a facial moisturiser.
Using Separately:
In the morning, use an eye serum after cleansing and before sunscreen or makeup. Its lightweight texture won’t interfere with other products.
In the evening, apply an eye cream as part of your nighttime routine to deeply moisturise and support skin repair while you sleep.
4. Choose Based on Your Skin Type
Oily or Combination Skin: Opt for a lightweight eye serum with ingredients like hyaluronic acid or fruit ceramides. Avoid heavier creams.
Dry or Ageing Skin: A richer eye cream with nourishing plant cells can provide essential hydration and fight signs of ageing.
Eye Care for Specific Concerns
Eye Serums: Best for targeting dehydration, deep wrinkles, and puffiness.
Eye Creams: Excellent for moisturising, reducing puffiness, and addressing fine lines like crow’s feet.
Is Eye Serum Better Than Eye Cream?
Deciding whether an eye serum is better than an eye cream depends on your skincare goals, texture preference, and skin type. Both products have unique benefits, and the right choice hinges on your specific needs.
If your primary concern is addressing dark circles or fine lines, an eye serum may be your best bet. Serums are designed for targeted care with potent ingredients that penetrate deeply into the skin, making them an excellent option for anti-ageing treatments. For those searching for the best eye serum, look for formulas enriched with peptides, hyaluronic acid, or vitamin C for visible results.
On the other hand, if you have dry or mature skin, an eye cream could be a better match. Eye creams are thicker and more emollient, providing intensive conditioning and nourishment to keep your skin soft, smooth, and hydrated.
Your skin type also plays a role in the decision. Those with sensitive skin might prefer eye creams, as they tend to be gentler and less likely to cause irritation. However, for oily skin, an eye serum’s lightweight texture may be more suitable, as it absorbs quickly and doesn’t leave a shiny residue.
You don’t necessarily have to choose one over the other—using both can increase the benefits. A combination of eye serum and eye cream is particularly effective for anti-ageing routines, as it addresses hydration and moisturisation needs simultaneously.
If you decide to layer both products, apply the serum first. Its lightweight formula allows it to sink in quickly, delivering active ingredients into the skin. Follow it up with an eye cream to lock in the serum’s benefits while adding an extra layer of moisture and protection.
Quick Recap: Eye Cream vs. Eye Serum
The signs of ageing, fatigue, and dehydration often first appear around the eyes. Serums and creams can be beneficial in achieving a more luminous appearance. Nevertheless, not all products are suitable for every eye concern and skin type.
An eye serum and an eye cream have different functions, making it sensible to include both in your skincare routine. The serum targets specific skin issues, while the cream offers essential hydration and seals in the effective ingredients applied beforehand. However, if you lean towards a minimalist skincare routine, select one product that your eye area requires more, or alternate between the serum and cream during the morning and evening.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is better, eye cream or eye serum?
If you want a product that works quickly and targets specific concerns, consider trying an eye serum first. On the other hand, if you mainly want to keep the skin around your eyes hydrated and well-nourished, an eye cream is a great choice to start with.
Is eye cream or serum better for dark circles?
Eye creams are great for providing moisture and are perfect for those who prefer thicker, moisturising products. Eye serums, however, are better for people looking for a lightweight option that specifically tackles puffiness, dark circles, and fine lines.
Can I use eye serum every day?
Yes, using an eye serum daily can help reduce the look of wrinkles and dark circles over time. You can apply it both in the morning and at night as part of your anti-ageing skincare routine for smoother and younger-looking skin around your eyes.
At what age should I start using eye serum?
It's a good idea to start using an eye product in your 20s if you want to maintain youthful, healthy skin. Doing this can help prevent early signs of ageing like fine lines and puffiness, as well as address dryness and dark circles.
Which should I apply first, eye cream or eye serum?
You should apply eye serum first because this helps both products work better. If you apply the cream first, the serum might not absorb properly. Putting eye cream on top of the serum can help it work more effectively and keep the serum from evaporating.
