The Best Korean Eye Creams – Tried, Tested, and Truly Worth It
Posted by Skinsider Team on 5th May 2025
If you're like me, eye creams are more than just a step in your skincare routine, they’re your secret weapon against puffiness, dark circles, and that tired look that creeps in after a long day. Korean eye creams, in particular, have impressed me over the years for their gentle formulations and powerhouse ingredients. In this post, I’ll walk you through four top picks from Skinsider, each unique in its own way, and yes, I’ve personally used two of them and have some strong opinions to share.
1. AXIS-Y Vegan Collagen Eye Cream
This one has earned a special place on my skincare shelf. The AXIS-Y Vegan Collagen Eye Cream has a lightweight, gel-like texture that feels incredibly refreshing, especially in the morning. What I loved most was how it seemed to visibly smooth my upper eyelids, which is honestly rare to find in an eye cream. And the brightening effect? Legit. Out of all the creams I’ve tried, this one did the most to even out the tone under my eyes without feeling greasy. If your skin tends to get weighed down by heavier formulas, this is your go-to for daytime use.
Daytime pick, great under makeup and perfect for warm weather or oily/combination skin types.
2. SKIN1004 Madagascar Centella Probio-Cica Bakuchiol Eye Cream
This is my nighttime ride or die. Unlike the AXIS-Y, this cream has a more classic, creamy texture - perfect for winding down after a long day. I’ve found it deeply nourishing and incredibly calming thanks to the Centella Asiatica. If you've had a rough day or your skin is just in need of some TLC, this one wraps your eyes in comfort. The Bakuchiol offers gentle retinol-like benefits without the irritation, which is amazing if you’re into anti-aging but want to avoid harsh actives.
Nighttime pick, ideal for dry or sensitive skin, especially for those seeking gentle anti-aging care.
3. Beauty of Joseon Revive Eye Serum: + Retinal
This one is a powerhouse. Featuring ginseng and retinal, it's designed to revitalize and smooth the under-eye area while boosting skin elasticity. Unlike traditional retinol, retinal is gentler but still effective. Ginseng is a classic ingredient in traditional Korean skincare, known for promoting circulation and firming the skin. This eye serum is more intensive, so it's a great option if you're starting to notice deeper wrinkles or want to actively target signs of aging.
Use with caution in the daytime: retinal can make skin more sensitive to sunlight. Great for mature skin types or those starting anti-aging routines.
4. COSRX Advanced Snail Peptide Eye Cream
If hydration is your biggest concern, this COSRX cream might be your hero. The combination of snail mucin and peptides helps with everything from texture to moisture retention and elasticity. It's also quite versatile - light enough for daytime but nourishing enough for night. The formula is gentle and fast-absorbing, making it suitable for most skin types, especially if you want an all-in-one eye cream.
All-day pick, great for dry or dehydrated skin and those seeking a boost in firmness and hydration.
Final Thoughts
No matter your concern: dark circles, wrinkles, puffiness, or dryness - there’s a Korean eye cream that’ll fit right into your routine. For me, the AXIS-Y is a forever favorite for daytime brightness and lift, while the SKIN1004 cream is a dream at night when my skin needs to wind down. And don’t forget, consistency is key. The skin around our eyes is delicate and needs that little extra love!
