Ask the expert: why use an eye cream?
The founder of her own globally celebrated, eponymous skincare brand, Emma Lewisham is passionate about using an eye cream every day. “They are specifically formulated to cater to this delicate skin, which is thinner, has less underlying support and experiences creasing from facial expressions,” she tells. “A good eye cream is formulated with specialised ingredients, potencies and combinations targeted to address the unique concerns of this specific area, to offer effective support.” She adds that a “scientifically backed, 100% natural eye cream has undoubtedly been the most requested product from our customers” – and the brand has definitely delivered.

The best eye creams

Scandal star Kerry Washington looks out for eye creams with plumping hyaluronic acid, and Neutrogena Hydro Boost Eye Cream, $29.99, packs a potent punch.

New Zealand skincare hero Emma Lewisham’s visionary new Skin Reset Eye Crème, $112, harnesses two pioneering delivery systems to enhance the way key ingredients like CoQ10 target cells and reach deeper into the skin.

With probiotic extracts, Tula Rose Glow & Get It Cooling & Brightening Eye Balm, $48, is a true multitasker, brightening, hydrating and cooling in just one swipe. It even doubles as a highlighter – apply it to cheekbones, Cupid’s bow or bridge of the nose for a subtle, dewy glow.

While this may not be your typical eye cream, actress Chloe Grace Mortez says she’s a big fan of Aussie staple Lucas Papaw Ointment, $10.50, saying, “I cover my lips in it and then I put it underneath my eyes.”

Clarins Total Eye Smooth, $109, combines the smoothing effect of a serum with the comfort of a balm and was created with mature eyes in mind. Pro tip: Mix half a pump with a drop of Clarins Everlasting Concealer for instant under-eye brightening!

Scientifically formulated with East Cape mānuka oil, rosehip oil and green tea extract, ManukaRx Pro-Aging Eye Cream, $44.95, is sustainably made in New Zealand, and helps to naturally decrease puffiness and reduce the appearance of fine lines.

In 2005, Elizabeth Arden’s premiere cosmeceutical skincare line Prevage was the first to formulate with idebenone, the world’s most powerful antioxidant. Now it has added Anti-Aging Eye Serum 2.0, $199, to its line-up, with five age-defying ingredients to help visibly reverse ageing signs and protect against environmental damage.

A lightweight yet powerful water-gel formula, Clinique Moisture Surge Eye 96-Hour Hydro-Filler Concentrate, $80, protects the delicate skin around the eyes by maintaining hydration levels for up to 96 hours. It also comes with niacinamide to minimise dark under-eye circles.

With a triple roller applicator that cools and refreshes, L’Oréal Paris Revitalift Filler Eye Serum, $49.99, is a non-greasy formula with 1.5% pure hyaluronic acid that will have you looking well-rested, even when you’ve pulled an all-nighter.