11 best under-eye patches I rely on to improve dark circles and puffiness

New York Post

7 hours ago

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If you've been following my beauty coverage here at Post Wanted, you know I'm all about building a skincare routine — from the best dry skin products to the best eye creams. And today, I'm diving into one of the buzziest skincare essentials that's taken TikTok and beauty routines by storm: the best under eye patches.
Whether you're curious about under eye patches for dark circles, wondering, 'do under eye patches work?' or hunting for the best under eye patches for puffiness, there's something for everyone. From gold under eye patches and collagen under eye patches to silicone under eye patches and reusable under eye patches, these little wonders promise targeted care for the delicate skin around your eyes.
Korean under eye patches, in particular, have gained a huge following for their soothing and effective formulas. Let's face it: Korean skincare is something I can never have enough of.
'Skincare has become a bit of a self-care ritual for many, and applying eye patches not only has hydrating and anti-aging benefits for this more delicate area—which tends to show signs of aging earlier than other parts of our faces—but it's also a way to slow down and take time for ourselves to relax and build some comfort into our day,' explains Tiffany Libby, MD, board-certified dermatologist and Mohs surgeon at Brown Dermatology in Rhode Island.
But how do you use them? Below, I cover how to wear under eye patches properly and explore options like overnight under eye patches to boost anti-aging benefits (pro tip: read the in-depth FAQ section). For wrinkles, hydration and a touch of self-care, under eye patches have become a ritual that combines science with a moment of relaxation.
'People understand taking care of your skin really can improve skin health and wellness; eye patches are part of this,' Elizabeth Houshmand, MD, a Texas-based, double board-certified dermatologist, told The Post, especially noting that these have gained popularity during the COVID-19 pandemic, and haven't stopped trending.
So, why the spotlight on under eye patches? Let's unpack the hype — and the packets themselves — and see if these skincare staples truly deliver.
Amazon
Pros: Excellent for both brightening and de-puffing
Contains hyaluronic acid to hydrate the under-eye region
Stay put without feeling too heavy Cons: Price point may be unreachable for some
If your under-eyes could talk, they'd be singing the praises of Grace & Stella's Energizing Eye Masks.
These golden patches are like a spa day for your face. They're cool, calming and oh-so-refreshing. Hands down, they're my most used under-eye patches, too. These under-eye gems are infused with a powerhouse blend of hyaluronic acid, glycerin, sea moss and amino acids; in other words, they hydrate, brighten and depuff with the grace of a ballerina.
Victoria Giardina
Whenever I use them, I notice a reduction in my dark circles from late nights or puffiness every once in a while. These masks swoop in like a superhero, leaving my under-eyes looking wide awake and ready to conquer the day.
But it's not just about looking good…it's about feeling good, too. These vegan, cruelty-free patches are gentle enough for my sensitive skin, making them a go-to for anyone seeking a little TLC without the irritation. And, the best part? They're as easy to use as they are effective. They're not slimy or too tight on the face. All you have to do is place them on, relax for 20 minutes and let the magic happen.
For an extra boost, chill them in the fridge before application for a cooling sensation that feels like a mini vacation for your face.
Key ingredients: Hyaluronic Acid, Glycerin, Seat Moss, Amino Acids | Amount of patches: 48 pairs
Best with Collagen: grace & stella Moisturizing Eye Masks
Amazon
Pros: Incredibly smoothing
Vegan and cruelty free
Helps eradicate the look of fine lines Cons: Price point may be unreachable for some
Not as fitting for discoloration
Meet the VIPs of under-eye skincare: grace & Stella's Moisturizing Eye Masks. I consider them my personal glam squad in a pink foil pouch. They're infused with plant-based hyaluronic acid, glycerin and fructose, delivering a triple-threat punch to dark circles, puffiness and fine lines. I'm a sucker for anything that'll hydrate and brighten, and these are the patches for the job.
These gel patches adhere comfortably without slipping, allowing me to go about my day while they work their magic. The inclusion of sea moss promotes collagen production, which helps firm and tighten my delicate under-eye skin. I love how they're vegan, cruelty-free and free from parabens and sulfates, too, so I don't have to worry about irritation or redness in my delicate under-eye area.
Victoria Giardina
They're not as equipped for discoloration, which is why I use the brand's Energizing Eye Masks a bit more, but they lead to incredibly soft skin. For that reason, I feel like they're excellent to use after removing my makeup or before makeup as a primer or sorts.
Key ingredients: Hyaluronic Acid, Glycerin, Fructose | Amount of patches: 48 pairs
Best for Dark Circles: Peter Thomas Roth 24K Gold Pure Luxury Hydra-Gel Eye Patches
Sephora
Pros: Super thin and lightweight, making them elegant to wear
Plenty of patches for the price, making them a great value
Helps lift and firm the skin surrounding my under-eyes, making them lovely for those keen on anti-aging Cons: Price point may be unreachable for some
If you're battling under-eye puffiness that screams, 'I skipped sleep and hydration,' let me introduce you to your new beauty essential: the Peter Thomas Roth 24K Gold Pure Luxury Hydra-Gel Eye Patches.
These glimmering little crescent moons are power-packed with ingredients that work fast. Yes, they're infused with actual 24K gold and colloidal gold, which noticeably lift, firm and brighten the delicate skin underneath my eyes in minutes. The results? I look like you got a full eight hours, even if your my reality involved doomscrolling until midnight before my early morning wakeups (oops).
Victoria Giardina
Its cocktail of high-performance ingredients is what makes this skincare splurge worth it. Caffeine acts as a wake-up call for tired eyes, depuffing and revitalizing on contact. Additionally, hyaluronic acid, my favorite ingredient ever, delivers a juicy dose of hydration. Plus, hydrolyzed collagen helps plump up fine lines.
Even the scent — faintly herbal with a calming touch — feels like a moment of self-care. This is truly a self-care ritual in the best way possible.
The convenience factor is there as well. Each jar comes with a spatula that I love for scooping out the patches without diving in with my fingers. It's more hygienic and super handy. The patches also stay in place while I multitask (hello, my email catch-up), and the serum doesn't drip or feel sticky. They're worth the investment if you're specifically looking to dial down the puffiness, as I notice a lovely, de-puffed result.
Key ingredients: 24K Gold, Hyaluronic Acid, Caffeine, Collagen | Amount of patches: 30 pairs
Amazon
Pros: Budget-friendly price point
Dialed down puffiness around my eyes the most
Oversized fit, which makes them feel more like a spa treatment Cons: Doesn't make the biggest difference for dark circles
With more than 6,000 purchases on Amazon in the past month, I'm not the only person who's become obsessed with the DERMORA Golden-Glow Under-Eye Gel Patches. Namely, they have an oversized fit that I love, allowing them to hit a bit into the apples-of-my-cheeks region to help lessen the look of pores. Hallelujah.
These little golden wonders are packed with 24K gold (yes, real gold!), which doesn't just sound fancy — it actually helps calm inflammation and brighten your under-eye zone like a mini spa treatment. Plus, hyaluronic acid dives deep to hydrate and plump, while its centella asiatica content works overtime to cancel out redness. It's basically a golden hug for my eyes, and the set of under-eye patches that made the biggest difference in the de-puffing arena.
Victoria Giardina
Each pair is perfectly packaged for you to toss in your bag and take anywhere, too. Whether it's a last-minute Zoom call or a weekend getaway, I love using these in the evenings. They're also hydrating for my sensitive skin, and I love how they don't include any parabens or sulfates. Just slap them on for 15-20 minutes, sit back and watch as your under-eye puffiness shrinks like magic. Instant refresh, no drama.
Key ingredients: Hyaluronic Acid, Centella Asiatica | Amount of patches: 20 pairs
Best Korean: COSRX The Peptide Collagen Hydrogel Eye Patches
Amazon
Pros: Skin-boosting power masks filled with collagen and peptides (a dream)
Helps refresh the under-eye area without that soppy wet feeling
Contain hyaluoronic acid, niacinamide and caffeine to hydrate, balance the skin and de-puff Cons: Tends to slide more easily than most
As a lover of all things Korean skincare, I knew I would want to walk down the aisle with the COSRX The Peptide Collagen Hydrogel Eye Patches (sorry, fiancè). These are like a double shot of espresso for my under-eyes — without the jitters.
They're enriched with a powerhouse blend of four peptides, collagen, niacinamide and caffeine to tackle puffiness, dark circles and fine lines in one swift swipe. They boast an instant cooling sensation and make my under-eye area feel smoother and more awake after just 10 minutes of use.
What sets these patches apart is their thoughtful formulation. They're packed with five types of hyaluronic acid to hydrate as well, adenosine to boost elasticity and vitamin B12 to soothe and calm. This potent mix not only revitalizes tired eyes but also brightens and firms the delicate skin around them. While they tend to slide a bit, they're worth picking up and using — especially if your beauty shelf looks like it was just express-shipped from South Korea.
Victoria Giardina
And let's talk about value. At $23 for 60 patches, they're an affordable luxury that doesn't skimp on quality. The included spatula ensures hygiene and ease of use. After reviewing the near-entirety of COSRX, these have my seal of approval.
Key ingredients: Collagen, Peptides, Hyaluornic Acid, Niacinamide, Caffeine | Amount of patches: 60 pairs
Best for Wrinkles: Pixi DetoxifEYE Depuffing Eye Patches
Amazon
Pros: Contains hyaluronic acid to hydrate the under-eye region
Cooling and refreshing
Helps smoothe natural lines Cons: Tends to slide more easily compared to other under-eye patches tested
Some ingredients may not be the best for very sensitive skin types, like cucumber and botanical extracts, though didn't irritate my sensitive skin
If your under-eye area is starting to resemble a roadmap of fine lines and wrinkles, the Pixi DetoxifEYE Depuffing Hydrogel Under-Eye Patches are here to smooth things over — literally.
These aren't your average eye patches; they're a spa day in a jar. They're formulated with a lovely blend of real gold, cucumber, coconut and hyaluronic acid to hydrate, firm and plump the skin underneath my eyes. Caffeine, the best-in-class de-puffer, adds an energizing boost, helping to reduce unwanted puffiness and dark circles, while the botanical extracts — like raspberry and aloe — soothe and nourish. Together, this blend creates a luxurious treatment that leaves your under-eyes looking refreshed and youthful. They're also super dewy, which I adore.
Victoria Giardina
While they don't stay as put as other under-eye patches tested, the cooling sensation is refreshing and makes me reach for them when I'm not in the mood for a super-wet, all-over sheet mask. It's also wonderful for those mornings when, for lack of a better description, you *may* wake up looking like you've been hit by a truck.
Simply apply them to clean, dry skin, leave them on for about 10 minutes and voilà: your under-eye area looks smoother, brighter and more awake. The smoothing factor makes me recommend them to anyone who wants to dial down natural lines.
Key ingredients: Caffeine, Cucumber, Gold | Amount of patches: 30 pairs
Best Before Makeup: ULTA Beauty Collection Wake-Up Call Eye Patches
Ulta Beauty
Pros: The best under-eye patches for staying put
Wonderful for an under-eye refresh as a precursor to makeup
Cruelty free and affordable Cons: Not as hydrating compared to other under-eye patches tested
If you're looking to give your under-eyes a wake-up call before applying makeup, the ULTA Beauty Collection Wake-Up Call Under Eye Patches have been my latest bestie before my makeup primer.
First things first, these patches are like a shot of espresso for my face, infusing it skin with caffeine and a peptide complex to energize and refresh my delicate under-eye area. The cooling gel texture feels like a mini spa treatment, helping to reduce puffiness and smooth out fine lines, which allows my concealer to go on flawlessly. Plus, they come with a fun blue pattern that's practically begging for a selfie.
Victoria Giardina
Drumroll please: they're a clean beauty staple. Formulated without parabens, sulfates or phthalates, they're cruelty-free and made with responsibly sourced packaging. So, not only are you treating your skin to a refreshing boost, but you're also making a conscious choice for the planet.
With 10 pairs per box, they're perfect for a quick pick-me-up before a big day or a special event. They are a bit more taut than more translucent and thinner under-eye patches, but I like them for this reason because they stay on as long as you need them to.
Key ingredients: Glycerin, Caffeine, Hyaluronic Acid | Amount of patches: 10 pairs
Best Cooling: Hero Cosmetics Mighty Patch for Tired Eyes
Amazon
Pros: Hails from the legacy brand for pimple patches — and doesn't disappoint
Stays put and instantly refreshes the eyes
Helps calm and de-puff the eye area, and are truly meant for tired eyes Cons: Not many patches in the pack, though not a dealbreaker
If your under-eyes are throwing a tantrum louder than your Monday morning alarm, the Hero Cosmetics Mighty Patch for Tired Eyes is your new peace offering. These dreamy little hydrogel patches are like mini hugs for your face: cooling, calming and blessedly clingy (in the best way).
They stay put while I make coffee, clean my house or (try) to meditate on a slow morning. They're some of the best for staying in place, and give my under-eyes the TLC they deserve.
Of course, I love the Mighty Patch and feel like they're one of the only pimple patches where I visibly see all that gunk when I remove them from a pesky blemish. It's no surprise that the brand's set of under-eye patches follows the same acclaim.
Amazon
Let's get into what makes them actual magic. These patches are packed with tri-hyaluronic acid to flood your skin with hydration, niacinamide to gently tell your dark circles to take a hike and soothing ingredients like panthenol and allantoin to ease puffiness and irritation. In half an hour, my tired eyes look less 'I've made mistakes' and more 'I'm booked and unbothered.'
Whether you're running on three hours of sleep or just need to fake a full night's rest, these budget-friendly patches come through and work like a charm.
Key ingredients: Hyaluronic Acid, Niacinamide, Panthenol | Amount of patches: 6 pairs
How I tested
Victoria Giardina
After treating myself to many a self-care night (in my self-named Statue of Liberty skincare headband), here's the detailed testing criteria I used for each under-eye patches:
Effectiveness on Targeted Concerns: I assessed how well the patches address specific issues like dark circles, puffiness, fine lines and wrinkles. In doing so, I looked for visible improvements in skin tone, texture and firmness after use.
I assessed how well the patches address specific issues like dark circles, puffiness, fine lines and wrinkles. In doing so, I looked for visible improvements in skin tone, texture and firmness after use. Hydration and Comfort: I evaluated the level of hydration provided by the patches and how comfortable they feel on the delicate under-eye skin. I checked for any irritation, stickiness or dryness during and after application.
I evaluated the level of hydration provided by the patches and how comfortable they feel on the delicate under-eye skin. I checked for any irritation, stickiness or dryness during and after application. Ingredients and Formulation: Of course, I reviewed the active ingredients such as collagen, hyaluronic acid, peptides, antioxidants or gold. So, I considered whether the formulation suits sensitive skin and the presence of any potential allergens or harsh chemicals.
Of course, I reviewed the active ingredients such as collagen, hyaluronic acid, peptides, antioxidants or gold. So, I considered whether the formulation suits sensitive skin and the presence of any potential allergens or harsh chemicals. Adhesion and Wearability: I tested how well the patches adhered to my skin without slipping or curling, including during movement or overnight wear. Also, I assessed the ease of application and removal without discomfort or residue.
I tested how well the patches adhered to my skin without slipping or curling, including during movement or overnight wear. Also, I assessed the ease of application and removal without discomfort or residue. Packaging and Sustainability: While the magic lies in the formulation, I also considered the packaging's practicality. Factors like hygiene and sustainability aspects, such as whether the patches are reusable or single-use and if the materials are eco-friendly or biodegradable, were taken into account.
An FAQ on Under-Eye Patches
What do under-eye patches do?
'Under-eye patches can help deliver hydrating, brightening and firming actives to your eyelid skin, skin that is 40% thinner than the rest of the skin on the face,' Dr. Libby said.
Plus, since eye patches are occlusives, according to Dr. Houshmand, 'they have hydrating active ingredients so the delicate skin can soak up the eye mask ingredients easily.'
What ingredients should I look for in under-eye patches?
Hydrating ingredients like hyaluronic acid, barrier repair ingredients such as ceramides, anti-aging ingredients like retinol, and brightening ingredients such as caffeine and niacinamide are all good to look for in under-eye patches, per Libby.
Additionally, Houshmand notes vitamins C and E are beneficial to the skin when integrated into the formula.
What ingredients should I avoid in under-eye patches for sensitive eyes?
Houshmand advises staying away from acids — like glycolic and salicylic — as the eye tissue is sensitive and delicate. Moreover, Libby doesn't recommend under-eye patches with too strong of a retinoid, as this may lead to irritation.
How can I tell if my under-eye patch is actually working?
'The skin should feel hydrated immediately afterward,' Libby noted. 'With any topical ingredients, it will take weeks before you may start to notice visible improvement, so as long as you are enjoying the products and your skin is feeling smooth and hydrated, continue on.'
However, Houshmand recommends removing under-eye patches after 10 minutes to avoid risking a reaction.
What's the difference between under-eye patches and eye creams? Can they be used together?
'I think of an eye cream as part of a skincare routine and the eye patch is like a face mask; it is not something you use daily,' Houshand said. And, differences exceed more than just semantics.
'The physical patch, especially when placed first in a refrigerator, can also help cool and de-puff skin,' Libby added. 'Eye creams also contain higher concentrations of actives but are meant to stay on overnight or throughout the day, and can be applied to upper lid to the upper brow as well, whereas most eye patches are designed specifically for lower lid only.'
Other brands to shop
During my testing, here are some honorable mentions that are also worth the buy (and will do your eyes some good):
Dior The Eye Patches : Luxe and fit for your best getting ready moments, this five-pack contains a duo of hyaluronic acid, niacinamide and caffeine. However, they're $84, so an investment compared to some other picks on this list.
: Luxe and fit for your best getting ready moments, this five-pack contains a duo of hyaluronic acid, niacinamide and caffeine. However, they're $84, so an investment compared to some other picks on this list. mediheal Vita Collagen Under-Eye Patches : For those *really* obsessed with vitamin C (like me), this under-eye patches are worth it, containing both vitamin C and collagen.
: For those *really* obsessed with vitamin C (like me), this under-eye patches are worth it, containing both vitamin C and collagen. Rare Beauty by Selena Gomez Find Comfort Hydrating Under-Eye Patches: Fit for your dark circles, this cruelty free and nourishing under-eye patches layer well with the rest of your skincare.
This article was written by Victoria Giardina, New York Post Commerce Journalist & Content Strategist, who has spent countless hours researching, testing hundreds of products and comparing the latest makeup, skincare, hair and beauty items and trends to determine what's truly worth your hard-earned cash. She evaluates formulas, textures, ingredients and more, in addition to consulting medical and industry experts. Some of Victoria's latest conquests include testing the best vitamin C serums on the market, and a rinse-and-repeat review of the best shampoos of 2025. Victoria, who received a beauty industry essentials certification from the Fashion Institute of Technology, has been creating shopping guides for the New York Post since 2021 and previously held positions at Insider Reviews and CNN Underscored.
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