Even if you’re a newbie at skincare, chances are you’ve already tried adding a vitamin C serum of some sort to your routine. Every brand has its version, whether it’s infused in sunscreen or combined with other actives for improved efficacy. But what about a version that’s for the most sensitive part of your face—the skin under your eyes? It’s the under-eye that often bears the brunt of your 6-hour daily screentime. Parched and dull, there is no amount of concealer that can breathe back life into it.
The solution isn’t to quit doomscrolling (duh). It’s to integrate a specific ingredient—aka vitamin C—in your routine. “The area under the eyes is thinner and can be more sensitive. A regular under-eye cream keeps the skin hydrated, but the added benefit of vitamin C is that it also works on brightening and reducing pigmentation. Plus, it doubles as an antioxidant against everyday environmental stressors, including pollution and UV exposure,” explains Dr Madhuri Agrawal, dermatologist at Yavana Skin and Hair clinic in Mumbai. Adding this active into your existing skincare regime is easy, especially if it already involves vitamin E or hyaluronic acid. Of course, SPF is non-negotiable if you’re using it during the day.
From patches to serums, below, we have curated an edit of the best vitamin C under-eye buys:
