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by: Linda Robison / Facial Fitness Specialist @ ABZ
Under-eye puffiness can make you look tired and older than you feel, whether it’s caused by aging, allergies, or lifestyle factors.
While at-home remedies like cold tea bags or ice cubes can help, sometimes you need a faster solution.
This article reviews the best products to reduce under-eye swelling, tighten crepey skin, and diminish the look of dark circles—all tested by me. Let’s dive in.
Note: To learn more about the causes and solutions, check out our How To Reduce Puffy Eye Guide.
In This Article:
This article reviews my experiences with the following products:
These products are all part of my quest to find an eye bag treatment that works in minutes. Along the way, I discovered an intriguing question: Is Plexaderm the same as hemorrhoid cream? (You might be surprised by the answer.)
I've had lower eyelid puffiness and wrinkles since my early 20s!😒 And, now that I'm older, my under-eye skin can look a bit wrinkly and crêpey!
I knew I had to find a solution!
While a lot of under-eye skin care serums worked to reduce cross-hatched under eye lines and puffiness, each had a problem that was difficult for me to deal with. I'll explain more in my reviews below...
Hear the Highlights!
Want a quick breakdown on the top serums for under-eye puffiness?
LISTEN TO IT HERE ...
Note: These reviews are just my opinion. What works for me might not work for you. Try different products to see what helps reduce your under-eye puffiness.
Here are my results using some popular under eye treatments and serums. Listed from least to most favorite:
1. Preparation-H Hemorrhoid Cream
Preparation H cream is not made for reducing under eye swelling. But, many people, including celebrities, have tried it and even endorsed it!
This hemorrhoid cream/ointment is formulated to help shrink swollen tissues and reduce their size. But, it did nothing to reduce my under-eye bags or get rid of that tired look.
In fact, it caused my eyes to swell up a bit due to the heavy greasy consistency of the product, as you can see from the picture.
Also, note: Dermatologist and skincare specialists that say Preparation H can damage under eye skin. 😮
Many YouTube videos show positive results, but I struggled with the application—it was chunky and required water to smooth, possibly due to an old product.
Initially, it reduced puffiness and tightened my skin, but after a few hours, it flaked and peeled like eczema. Applying it over creams or makeup didn’t help and only worsened the dryness.
When I first tried Plexaderm for under-eye swelling, it was a cream-based formula. However, the company has since reformulated it into a liquid serum, which might perform better. I haven’t tried the newer version yet.
My experience with their original cream was similar to Ageless—it felt dry, difficult to work with, and often needed water to thin it out.
While I can't comment on the effectiveness of the new serum, I generally prefer liquid or serum-based products for addressing under-eye puffiness.
Looking for affordable alternatives to Plexaderm for under-eye puffiness and wrinkles? Try:
Both use skin-tightening ingredients to temporarily reduce puffiness and fine lines. Unlike Plexaderm’s thicker formula, these serums apply smoothly without flaking.
For sensitive or mature skin, Easy Eye Solutions is gentler. Plus, both work over makeup, unlike Plexaderm, which needs bare skin.
This eye firming gel gets results—it visibly reduces under-eye puffiness. However, it can feel a bit too tight and slightly drying, sometimes leaving a powdery residue.
Using less product or mixing in a tiny drop of water made a big difference for me. If you're open to tweaking the application, it could be a great option for under-eye puffiness.
This eye serum is very liquid and can sputter if you don’t shake the tube first, likely due to ingredient separation.
While it’s okay, it’s not as effective as Peter Thomas Roth for severe under-eye bags or dark circles. It also sets to a powdery film, which I’m not a fan of.
If I have to deal with a white residue, I’d rather use Peter Thomas Roth.
This anti-aging eye treatment serum worked best for me. It’s soft, not too drying and does not crack or accentuate my under-eye lines when I smile.
It also helps camouflage those tiny wrinkles and crepe-like lines
See how Easy Eye Solution visibly reduces extreme puffiness in this video—perfect for tackling even the most stubborn under-eye bags.
This product is similar to Insta-Tox but has a softer gel consistency and doesn’t require shaking to mix.
It took a few tries to get the application right. It initially felt a bit pasty, but warming it between my fingertips before applying under my eyes helped.
You might need to experiment with the amount. Though it looks tan/flesh-colored, it dries clear on my skin.
If you're looking for tried-and-true products to tackle under-eye puffiness, these are my go-to recommendations:
1. Easy Eye Solutions:
This is my top choice for smoothing and tightening the under-eye area. It delivers long-lasting results and works beautifully under makeup.
2. Peter Thomas Roth Instant FirmX Eye Gel:
A fantastic option for quick fixes, this gel visibly reduces puffiness and fine lines within minutes. Perfect for special events or when you're short on time.
3. Dr. Brandt No More Baggage:
This lightweight gel not only depuffs but also helps brighten the under-eye area, making you look refreshed and awake.
Give these a try and find the one that fits your needs best! If you've tried any of these, I'd love to hear your results!
Best Way to Get a Flawless Finish
To reap the benefits of under-eye serums, you need to know how to apply them correctly. You don't need to be a makeup artist to get it right. You don't need to use a setting spray, setting powder, or cream concealers.
And you don't need a beauty blender or makeup brush to smooth it on...Just your ring finger. Here is my advice:
A little goes a long way, adjust the amount next time until you find what works.
I usually apply this serum after finishing my makeup, just before heading out the door.
Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links
Here is a quick summary of the review of anti-aging eye products I've tried. It's listed from least to most favorite: EES, Peter Thomas Roth, Plexaderm, Instantly Ageless, Insta-TOX.
Question: Is Plexaderm the same as hemorrhoid cream?
Answer: No, Plexaderm is not the same as a hemorrhoid cream. Plexaderm is for the under eye area, and hemorrhoid creams are used to reduce swollen hemorrhoids in the lower region of the body.
Question: Is there a permanent way to hide eye bags after 50?
Answer: For those looking for more lasting results, Fillers or Botox might be some options to consider. Explore Botox for eye bags and dermal fillers for under eye puffiness, for a smoother, more refreshed under-eye area.
Question: Insta-Tox vs Plexiderm vs Peter Roth? Which did you like the best?
Answer: No, question, I like Peter Thomas Roth FirmX. It's easy to use and it works without crusting or leaving a whitish film. Only down side? It's a bit drying.
Question: What is the main ingredient in plexaderm?
Answer: Plexaderm's active ingredient, sodium silicate, temporarily tightens the skin by forming a thin film on the surface, creating a smoother appearance.
Question: Peter Thomas Roth vs Plexaderm? Which is better?
Answer: Personally, I prefer Peter Thomas Roth FirmX vs Plexaderm. It has a thinner gel like consistency and is easy to apply and work with.
Question: What's an alternative to Plexaderm?
Answer: I like Easy Eye Solution (EES) Instant Eye Tuck is my first alternative to Plexaderm. And Peter Thomas Roth FirmX is my second choice.
Both are easy to work with and both are a light gel that goes on smoothly. The difference is the EES is lighter and less drying, but both work very well, especially for sensitive, mature under eye skin.
Question: Does Benadryl help puffy eyes from crying?
Answer: Benadryl might help better if your issue is caused by an allergic response or seasonal allergies. But, it might take a few days to see results. You're better off using a cold compress like tea bags to reduce eye swelling from crying.
Question: Does Garnier eye cream fix eye bags?
Answer: I've tried and wrote about my experience using Garnier eye cream. It didn't remove or reduce the appearance of puffiness, but it didn't make it worse. However, I did think it was a bit pricey for a drugstore brand eye product.
Question: Why do I suddenly have wrinkles under my eyes?
Answer: A few reasons why those little lines might have decided to make an appearance include:
Age: As you age, your skin loses elasticity and collagen, leading to wrinkles.
Dehydration: Not drinking enough water leaves your skin dry and more prone to fine lines.
Sleep Habits: Lack of quality sleep often results in extra lines, especially under the eyes.
Sun Exposure: UV rays accelerate collagen and elastin breakdown, causing premature wrinkles. But consistent sunscreen use can help reverse some skin aging.
Smoking: Smoking reduces blood flow and damages collagen, contributing to wrinkles.
Squinting: Regular squinting from sunlight or poor vision can create lines around your eyes.
Genetics: If your parents developed under-eye wrinkles early, you might too.
Visit: 5 Eye wrinkle remedies that work for some simple, at-home solutions to fine lines and eye wrinkles.
Question: Is Vaseline good for eye bags?
Answer: No! There is no indication that Vaseline contains anything to help reduce under eye swelling. Personally, I would never use Vaseline under the eye area. Anything greasy like that would cause my eyes to swell up!
Question: Can you use Preparation H on your face for wrinkles
Answer: No, Preparation-H will not have any effect for smoothing out wrinkles on your face or anywhere else.
Question: Does Plexaderm work on turkey neck wrinkles?
Answer: No, Plexaderm is designed to temporarily smooth the appearance of lines, and eye bags. Wrinkles on the neck are caused by loose, sagging skin, reduced elasticity, and a lack of muscle tone. If you're looking for natural solutions to tighten a turkey neck, check out this post. You'll also find my before and after neck pictures.
Question: What's the difference between Insta-tox vs Plexaderm?
Answer: Insta-tox has a consistency similar to Peter Thomas Roth FirmX. It's a thick, white gel. It works similar but the FirmX, but stronger and a bit more drying.
Question: Can you apply makeup over Plexaderm?
Answer: I never had success in applying makeup or concealer over Plexaderm. But it could because I use an oily-based foundation. However, if you want to try to apply makeup over Plexaderm or any puffy under eye serum, here are some tips:
Question: Can you wear makeup over Plexaderm?
Answer: Yes, you can wear makeup over Plexaderm, but it’s best to use it sparingly and follow these tips for the best results:
Powder-based makeup often works better than heavy liquid foundations to avoid disrupting the product's hold.
Question: What's the best drugstore eye cream for puffiness?
Answer: Two popular drugstore brands that support under-eye skin health are CeraVe Eye Repair Cream and RoC Retinol Correxion Eye Cream. These aren't quick-fix serums but work best for long-term eye skin health.
CeraVe hydrates and soothes mild puffiness with hyaluronic acid and ceramides, helping restore the skin barrier. Results vary depending on puffiness or wrinkles.
RoC targets fine lines, puffiness, and dark circles with retinol, which boosts collagen and smooths skin. Many users see results in a few weeks, but don’t forget sunscreen when using retinol.
Question: what is better than plexaderm?
Answer: Some feel that Peter Thomas Roth is better than Plexaderm because it lasts longer.
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