How to Apply Eye Cream — Because Yes, You Could Be Doing It Wrong

Let’s talk about a magical little product called eye cream. Whether you have dry skin around your eyes, dark circles, discoloration or under-eye bags, you probably rely on a specially formulated eye cream to treat and nourish that delicate area of skin on your face.

While it may seem pretty self-explanatory, there are a few crucial skincare rules you should follow when it comes to eye cream application. And who better to teach us right from wrong than a dermatologist? Keep reading to learn the best way to apply eye cream and common mistakes to avoid from Dr. Erin Gilbert, a board-certified dermatologist.

While every product has a recommended application method, eye creams require the utmost care due to the nature of the skin you’re applying them to. “The skin around the eyes is some of the most delicate on your body, hence, you need to treat it with respect,” says Dr. Gilbert. “When applying eye creams or removing eye makeup, you want to be very gentle.”

How to Apply Eye Cream

Dispense Enough Product to Cover Your Under-Eye Area

Whether you’re using an eye cream that comes in a jar or a tube, start your application by dispensing the formula onto your (clean!) fingertip.

Tap It In

With a light, gentle pressure, use your ring finger to tap the eye product onto your under-eye area, starting at the inner corner and working your way out. Then, Dr. Gilbert says you can work the product in using circular motions or continuing tapping until the formula melts into the skin seamlessly.

This means no tugging, harsh rubbing or pulling at the under-eye skin. It’s not necessary and doing so could lead to sagging skin and premature wrinkles over time.

Eye Cream Tips and Common Mistakes

Watch How Much Product You Use

“A lot of people try to use too much product and it winds up getting in the eyes, causing initial blurry vision, then irritation,” says Dr. Gilbert. You’ll need enough to provide your eye area with moisturization but not too much that the product will have trouble absorbing into the skin.

Eye Cream Before Serum and Moisturizer

The order in which you apply eye cream is up for debate (some people apply it after their serum and before their moisturizer) but Dr. Gilbert advises application immediately after cleansing. “This order allows it to penetrate your skin before you moisturize or use a serum on the rest of your face.”

Avoid Fragrances If You Have Sensitive Skin

Finding the right eye cream formula for your skin type and needs can be tricky, but once you do, Dr. Gilbert recommends you stick with it. If you’re looking for a moisturizing formula with anti-aging benefits, try the L’Oréal Paris Revitalift Hyaluronic Acid + Caffeine Hydrating Eye Serum.