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If you’re searching for the Best Under Eye Brightener, you’re probably looking for something that helps tired-looking eyes appear more awake, smoother, and fresher. The right formula can make a noticeable difference in how dark circles, puffiness, and discoloration show up, whether you prefer a treatment-style eye product or a brightening concealer.
When choosing from the products below, pay attention to the type of brightening effect you want, the ingredients highlighted by the brand, the finish, and whether the formula is better suited for everyday makeup, skin care, or both. It also helps to consider texture, shade, and added benefits like hydration, caffeine, or color correcting properties so you can find the best match for your routine.
Let’s get started!
Our Top Picks at a Glance
| Product | Best For | Buy Now |
|---|---|---|
| Catrice Under Eye Brightener | Vegan brightening with a light rose tone | Buy |
| bareMinerals Well Rested | Powder brightening with SPF 20 | Buy |
| Elizabeth Mott Thank Me Later | Hydrating color correcting and primer use | Buy |
Best Under Eye Brightener
1. Best Overall: Catrice Under Eye Brightener
- BYE-BYE DARK CIRCLES! Say goodbye to heavy eye baggage with the Under Eye Brightener from Catrice. It ensures an instantly alert effect with its light pink, nourishing texture that is specially developed for the under-eye area.
- CARING AND COLOR ADAPTING: The formula is enriched with hyaluronic acid and shea butter, which nourish the skin and give it a radiant glow. The pink color visibly balances out the bluish tones of under-eye shadows and dark circles.
- NATURAL AND RADIANT: The Under Eye Brightener has a medium coverage and can be easily applied with your fingers, a make-up sponge or brush, and gently blended to help you achieve a natural & fresh look.
Catrice Under Eye Brightener is a simple, approachable option for anyone looking for a product designed to conceal and brighten dark circles. The Light Rose shade may appeal to shoppers who want a soft brightening effect without making the under-eye area look heavy.
This formula includes hyaluronic acid and shea butter, which may be appealing if you want a product that feels more comfortable in the under-eye area. It is also vegan, cruelty free, and paraben free, making it a strong fit for shoppers who value those labels.
With a 4.2 rating and a low price point, this product stands out as a budget-friendly brightening solution. It is a good choice if you want a straightforward under-eye brightener with a makeup-meets-care feel.
Pros
- Contains hyaluronic acid and shea butter
- Vegan and cruelty free
- Paraben free
Cons
- Only one listed shade option in the provided data
- May not suit those wanting full coverage
2. Best Value: Palladio Under Eye Brightener
- WHAT IS IT: Brighten and awaken your under-eye area with Palladio’s new Under Eye Brightener, a powerful blend of skincare and makeup in one.
- FORMULATION/ BENEFITS: Formulated with caffeine, this under-eye brightener helps detoxify and diminish the look of under-eye bags, leaving you with a refreshed, well-rested look all day long.
- AVAILABLE IN 3 SHADES – Soft Pink (Light to Medium skin tones), Medium Nude (Medium to Tan skin tones), and Golden Tan (Tan to Rich skin tones) for a customized brightening effect across a wide range of complexions.
Palladio Under Eye Brightener is positioned as a concealing and brightening product that also helps reduce the appearance of dark circles. The Soft Pink shade makes it a practical option for users who prefer a subtle color-correcting look.
This formula includes caffeine peptides and vitamin E, which may be appealing to shoppers who want added eye-area support in a makeup product. It is marketed as both a brightener and primer, which gives it more than one use in a routine.
With a 4.3 rating and a reasonable price, it offers a balanced mix of appeal and affordability. It may be a solid everyday option if you want a product that can brighten while also helping create a smoother base.
Pros
- Includes caffeine peptides and vitamin E
- Can be used as a brightener and primer
- Good mid-range price
Cons
- Only one shade listed in the data
- Brightening effect may be subtle for some users
3. Best For Mature Skin: Elizabeth Mott Thank Me Later Under Eye Brightener & Primer
- TARGETED FOR MATURE UNDER EYES: This 3-in-1 under eye primer hydrates, brightens, and creates a smooth, long-wearing base for concealer. It is ideal for women experiencing dryness, dullness, dark circles, discoloration, or fine lines under the eyes.
- SMOOTHS & BRIGHTENS DELICATE SKIN: Formulated with Shea Butter, Niacinamide, White Mulberry Extract, and Hyaluronic Acid this lightweight formula helps improve the appearance of texture and dark circles while delivering a refreshed, healthy glow.
- CREATES A CREASE-FREE, COMFORTABLE BASE: Grips concealer in place with a soft-blur effect—no caking, no creasing. Perfect for skin that needs extra care and coverage without heaviness.
Elizabeth Mott Thank Me Later Under Eye Brightener & Primer is designed as a hydrating color corrector and concealer primer. The product description highlights smooth base benefits, which may make it especially attractive to shoppers who want their under-eye area to look more even before makeup.
The formula is presented as lightweight and suitable for mature skin, which is a helpful detail for those who prefer products that are not overly heavy. The Fair shade may be a good fit for lighter complexions looking for a brightening effect.
It carries a 4.4 rating and sits at a higher price point than some alternatives, but it may be worth considering if you want a premium-feeling under-eye brightener that also doubles as a primer.
Pros
- Hydrating and lightweight formula
- Works as a color corrector and primer
- Suitable for mature skin according to the listing
Cons
- Higher price than many other options
- Only one shade provided in the data
4. Best For Depuffing: The Ordinary Caffeine Solution 5% + EGCG
- DEPUFFS TIRED EYES: Caffeine Solution 5% + EGCG visibly reduces puffiness and dark circles around the eyes.
- ANTIOXIDANT-RICH FORMULA: Contains Epigallocatechin Gallatyl Glucoside (EGCG) and caffeine to combat signs of fatigue and promote a refreshed look.
- DAILY EYE CARE SOLUTION: Suitable for all skin types, this water-based serum can be applied both morning and night.
The Ordinary Caffeine Solution 5% + EGCG is an eye serum aimed at depuffing and helping with the look of dark circles and tired eyes. Unlike color cosmetics, this is more of a skincare-style product for people who want targeted under-eye treatment.
The standout feature in the provided data is caffeine paired with EGCG, making it easy to understand why this product appeals to those focused on a fresher eye-area appearance. It is streamlined and straightforward in its positioning.
With a 4.4 rating and a modest price, it is one of the more accessible options if your priority is a simple treatment-like step rather than a makeup brightener. It may work well as part of a daily eye care routine.
Pros
- Focused on depuffing
- Includes caffeine and EGCG
- Affordable price point
Cons
- Not a makeup concealer or corrector
- May not provide instant visible brightening
5. Best Drugstore Pick: Maybelline Instant Age Rewind Eraser Dark Circles Treatment Concealer
- Maybelline Instant Age Rewind Concealer: America's Number 1 Concealer; Erase the look of dark circles, correct the appearance of redness and brighten the look of dull skin. Can be used in multiple shades to contour and highlight.
- Anti-Aging Concealer: Turn back time with this anti-aging under eye treatment concealer infused with Haloxyl; Say bye bye to the look of fine lines, blemishes, redness, and dark circles, and hello to a radiant, well rested, refreshed looking eye area
- Best Face Forward: Maybelline has sheer, medium, and full coverage foundation in liquid and powder foundation formulas, and a range of concealers, face primers, contour, highlighter, and pressed and setting powder to help you create a perfect canvas
Maybelline Instant Age Rewind Eraser is one of the most familiar options in the under-eye concealer category. Its listing focuses on dark circle treatment and multi-use concealer functions, which makes it a practical everyday choice.
This product is a strong fit for shoppers who want a mainstream option that is easy to find and widely recognized. The packaging may vary, but the product’s core purpose remains centered on brightening the under-eye area and helping reduce the appearance of darkness.
With a 4.4 rating and an accessible price, it remains a dependable option for many makeup routines. If you want a classic concealer-style brightener, this one is worth a look.
Pros
- Well-known drugstore option
- Multi-use concealer format
- Affordable price
Cons
- Packaging may vary
- May not suit users seeking skincare-only products
6. Best For Full Coverage: IT Cosmetics Bye Bye Under Eye Concealer
- WHY YOU’LL LOVE IT - Our #1 best-selling, anti-aging concealer delivers instant full coverage and flawless finish for up to 24 hours. Creamy formula won’t crease, crack, or settle into fine lines and wrinkles, giving you smoother, younger-looking skin.
- BENEFITS - This award-winning eye & face concealer multitasks to brighten and conceal the appearance of dark circles, discoloration, fine lines, wrinkles, blemishes, acne scars, dark spots, age spots, skin redness, and pores.
- WATER-RESISTANT - This water-resistant concealer nourishes your skin while delivering lasting, beautiful results. Rich cream texture offers moisturizing full coverage with a natural finish, perfect for color correcting.
IT Cosmetics Bye Bye Under Eye Concealer is described as a full coverage, water-resistant brightening concealer for dark circles, fine lines, redness, and discoloration. That makes it one of the more coverage-focused products in this list.
The anti-aging and 24-hour wear claims suggest it is built for shoppers who want long-lasting performance. If your priority is masking the under-eye area rather than a sheer brightening effect, this product fits that need well.
With a 4.4 rating and a mid-to-higher price, it sits in a premium but still approachable tier. It is a strong contender for anyone who wants more coverage and a finish that can handle extended wear.
Pros
- Full coverage formula
- Water-resistant
- Designed for multiple concerns including dark circles and discoloration
Cons
- May be more than some users need
- Higher price than basic brighteners
7. Best Rollerball Format: grace & stella Under Eye Brightener
- Cooling Essential: Love our cooling eye elixir? Meet our under cooling eye serum roller - retinol-free and perfect for daytime! With soothing actives and a metal rollerball, it helps to refresh your under eye bags and revive tired-looking under eyes.
- Daily Wake-Up Call: Bring dull, fatigued under eyes back to life with this eye roller. With caffeine & niacinamide, this helps diminish the look of dark circles and dullness for a brighter, more radiant appearance over time.
- Calm, Cool Hydration: Our caffeine under eye serum keeps under-eyes moisturized with hyaluronic acid & ceramide, while soothing sensitive skin with centella asiatica. Hydration helps soften the look of fine lines over time & keeps skin fresh and youthful.
grace & stella Under Eye Brightener uses a cooling metal rollerball, which makes the application experience stand out right away. The listing highlights centella asiatica and caffeine, along with a focus on puffy eyes.
This product may appeal to travelers and anyone who likes a convenient eye serum format. The rollerball design makes it easy to apply, and the brand positions it as a travel-friendly under-eye cream.
With a 4.3 rating and moderate pricing, it offers a practical blend of function and convenience. If you enjoy soothing application styles, this one is worth considering.
Pros
- Cooling metal rollerball applicator
- Contains centella asiatica and caffeine
- Travel-friendly format
Cons
- May not suit those who prefer traditional cream formulas
- Brightening effect may be subtle
8. Best Powder Pick: bareMinerals Well Rested Under Eye Brightener SPF 20
- A vegan under eye brightener that makes you look well-rested — even if you’re not. Visibly reduces the look of dark circles.
- This makeup concealer diminishes the appearance of puffiness and fatigue.
- Mineral-based SPF 20 defends against UVA and UVB rays.
bareMinerals Well Rested Under Eye Brightener takes a powder approach, which sets it apart from many cream and serum products. It is designed to brighten under the eyes and help with the appearance of dark circles while also offering SPF 20.
The loose powder format may appeal to users who prefer a mineral feel and want a product that includes sun protection. The listing also notes that it is vegan, which adds to its appeal for ingredient-conscious shoppers.
With a strong 4.7 rating, it is one of the highest-rated options in the set. If you want a powder brightener with built-in SPF, this is a standout choice.
Pros
- Powder format for under-eye brightening
- Includes SPF 20
- Vegan formula
Cons
- Loose powder may not suit every routine
- May be less hydrating than cream formulas
9. Best For Long Wear: IT Cosmetics Bye Bye Under Eye Concealer 24H Wear
- WHY YOU’LL LOVE IT - Our #1 best-selling, hydrating concealer delivers instant full coverage and flawless finish for up to 24 hours. Creamy formula won’t settle into fine lines or creases, giving you a natural, long-lasting coverage
- BENEFITS - This anti-aging concealer is dermatologist-developed concealer multitasks to cover skin imperfections, color correction, and reduce dark circles. Rich cream texture offers moisturizing full coverage with a natural finish, perfect for color correcting
- 24HR FORMULA - Smooth, creamy concealer provides highly pigmented full coverage for up to 24 hours. Wear alone as foundation or layer under/over makeup. Long-lasting, buildable formula brightens targeted spots with seamless, creaseless blend
This IT Cosmetics Bye Bye Under Eye Concealer version is described as water-resistant and designed for 24-hour wear. It focuses on brightening dark circles, fine lines, redness, and discoloration, making it a versatile concealer choice.
The product is clearly aimed at users who want an under-eye brightener that can handle a long day. Its anti-aging color correcting cream positioning suggests a fuller makeup function rather than a treatment serum.
With a 4.4 rating and a premium price, it overlaps with the full coverage segment while emphasizing endurance. It may be especially appealing if staying power matters most to you.
Pros
- 24-hour wear claim
- Water-resistant
- Targets multiple visible under-eye concerns
Cons
- Premium price
- May feel heavy for users who want a light brightener
10. Best Budget Eye Gel: Good Molecules Yerba Mate Wake Up Eye Gel
- BRIGHT AND BEAUTIFUL: Rejuvenate and energize your eyes for a bright fresh look. Embrace newfound confidence with the Good Molecules Wake Up Eye Gel formulated with a combination of powerful ingredients to help you look your best.
- GOODBYE PUFFY, TIRED EYES: Notice the difference! This nutrient-packed eye gel works to reinvigorate your eyes! Designed to reduce the signs of tired eyes, puffiness, and dark circles while also hydrating and plumping the skin to reduce the appearance of fine lines.
- POTENT FORMULA, POWERFUL INGREDIENTS: Antioxidant-rich, sustainably sourced Yerba Mate works to protect and nourish the skin around your eyes. While caffeine and acetyl tetrapeptide-5 encourage a reduction in swelling and hyaluronic acid helps to plump and firm!
Good Molecules Yerba Mate Wake Up Eye Gel is a hydrating under-eye gel cream designed to target dark circles and puffiness. It features hyaluronic acid and caffeine, according to the product data.
This is a solid choice for shoppers who want a lightweight skin-care step rather than a makeup-style brightener. The gel format makes it feel easy to work into a morning routine, especially if you like simple products.
With a 4.3 rating and a very low price, it is one of the most budget-friendly items in the group. It may be a good fit if you want a daily eye gel that supports a fresher under-eye look.
Pros
- Hydrating gel cream format
- Includes hyaluronic acid and caffeine
- Very affordable
Cons
- Not a makeup concealer
- May not offer instant brightness
11. Best Putty Formula: e.l.f. Putty Color-Correcting Eye Brightener
- UNDER-EYE BRIGHTENING CORRECTOR: Under-eyes need a pick-me-up? Fake a good night’s rest with this medium-coverage, under-eye brightening corrector.
- CREATES HYDRATED, SMOOTH UNDER-EYES: It contains illuminating pearls to brighten eyes and color-correcting peach hues for hydrated, smooth, and lit-up skin (even after that late-night social media spiral).
- FOR LONG-LASTING CONCEALER: This color corrector also primes and smooths skin to extend the wear of concealer.
e.l.f. Putty Color-Correcting Eye Brightener is positioned as both an under-eye brightener and a primer. The fair shade and putty texture make it a distinct alternative to more liquid or serum-like products.
The listing emphasizes reducing the appearance of dark circles, and the vegan and cruelty-free labels may be especially appealing to some shoppers. This product is designed for those who want a color-correcting base in a compact format.
With a 4.2 rating and a budget-friendly price, it offers a low-cost way to try a different brightening texture. It may be best for users who like a primer-like feel under makeup.
Pros
- Putty texture with primer benefits
- Vegan and cruelty free
- Affordable price
Cons
- Texture may not appeal to everyone
- Only one shade listed in the data
12. Best Glow Pairing: RoC Multi Correxion Revive + Glow Eye Balm
- SCIENCE and BEAUTY: We produce a wide array of skin care products and treatments including moisturizers, cleansers, serums, skin tone and wrinkle regimens, creams for eyes, neck, decollete, including our eye balm for dark circles & much more
- ANTI-AGING FORMULAS: Whether you're looking for a solution for deep wrinkles, fine lines, dark circles, crow's feet, uneven tone or dryness, or our anti-aging RoC eye cream with vitamin c —RoC products are formulated to meet your skincare needs
- PROVEN RESULTS: RoC's brightening under eye cream balm includes a patent-pending complex. In 4 weeks: 90% saw brighter eyes. Dermatologist and ophthalmologist tested; Paraben free, Non-comedogenic; Safe for sensitive skin
RoC Multi Correxion Revive + Glow Eye Balm is listed with vitamin C, and the product pairing includes a retinol eye cream packette. The eye balm itself is clearly the brightening-focused item in this set.
This product may appeal to users who want a glow-oriented eye balm rather than a concealer. The naming suggests a focus on revitalizing the eye area and supporting a brighter look.
Although the rating is not provided in the data, the price places it in the mid-range segment. It may be a good fit for people who prefer eye-balm textures and ingredient-driven skincare.
Pros
- Includes vitamin C in the listing
- Eye balm texture for a different feel
- Mid-range price
Cons
- Rating not provided in the data
- Less straightforward than a traditional concealer
13. Best Lightweight Cream: Under Eye Brightener & Concealer
- Instant Brightening Effect - Refresh Your Eyes: Light up tired eyes instantly with this under-eye brightener! Its lightweight, blendable formula helps diminish the look of dark circles, giving you a fresh, well-rested appearance in seconds.
- Hydrating Formula - Infused with Hyaluronic Acid & Shea Butter: Say goodbye to dryness! This under-eye concealer is enriched with Hyaluronic Acid and Shea Butter to nourish, smooth, and lock in moisture, keeping your delicate under-eye skin soft and supple all day long.
- Color Corrector & Concealer - Flawless Natural Coverage: Designed to neutralize dark circles and discoloration, this color-correcting formula evens skin tone while providing a seamless, crease-free finish that blends effortlessly with your makeup routine.
This Under Eye Brightener & Concealer is described as a hydrating color corrector for dark circles. The formula is lightweight and includes hyaluronic acid and shea butter, which may appeal to users looking for comfort in use.
The Light Rose shade and smooth, blendable texture suggest a brightening product that aims to be easy to wear. It is presented as a cream rather than a heavy concealer, which may suit everyday routines.
With a 4.3 rating and a low price, this is another accessible option for shoppers wanting a brightening cream with a skin-friendly feel. It could be a practical choice if you want a simple under-eye product without much fuss.
Pros
- Hydrating formula with hyaluronic acid and shea butter
- Lightweight and blendable
- Budget-friendly
Cons
- Only one shade listed
- May not provide full coverage
14. Best Setting Powder: Catrice Under Eye Brightener Setting Powder
- BRIGHTEN & BLUR: Say hello to brighter, smoother under-eyes with the Catrice Under Eye Brightener Setting Powder! This silky powder locks in radiance and smooths imperfections for an effortlessly flawless finish.
- CEASE THE CREASE: Blur imperfections and counteract discoloration with a natural, satin finish that keeps your under-eyes looking fresh and naturally glowing—no heavy shine, just perfection.
- ALL-DAY PERFECTION: This finely milled powder pairs seamlessly with our Under Eye Brightener cream formula to ensure a fresh, well-rested look that lasts. The travel-friendly packaging makes it perfect for on-the-go touch ups.
Catrice Under Eye Brightener Setting Powder is designed for brightening with a soft focus effect. Like the brand’s brightener above, this product includes hyaluronic acid and comes in the Light Rose shade.
The main difference is the powder format, which makes it a better fit for users who want to finish and set their under-eye look. It is positioned as a tool for a radiant, flawless appearance rather than a standalone treatment.
With a 4.2 rating and a low price, it offers a straightforward powder option from a familiar brand. It may appeal if you prefer setting products that still aim to keep the under-eye area looking bright.
Pros
- Soft focus brightening effect
- Includes hyaluronic acid
- Vegan and cruelty free
Cons
- Powder format may not suit all skin types
- Only one shade listed
15. Best Energizing Balm: TULA Skincare Spresso Energizing Eye Balm
- A POWERFUL SWIPE: A hyaluronic acid & aloe water eye balm that deeply hydrates & reduces the look of fine lines, wrinkles & puffiness.
- BRIGHTENING EFFECT: Caffeine, apple & watermelon firm & improve the look of eye puffiness any time of day!
- Prebiotic Power: TULA Skincare utilizes a unique superblend of prebiotic extracts & superfoods to nourish your skin's microbiome and reinforce the natural barrier.
TULA Skincare Spresso Energizing Eye Balm is a caffeine-based under-eye treatment designed to hydrate and energize the eye area. Its portable format makes it especially useful for quick application on the go.
This product is best viewed as a lightweight eye balm rather than a makeup corrector. If you want something you can keep in a bag and use throughout the day, the compact design is a plus.
With a 4.4 rating and a higher price, it sits in the premium skincare category. It may appeal most to shoppers who want convenience, hydration, and a caffeine-focused eye balm.
Pros
- Hydrating eye balm format
- Contains caffeine
- Portable and on-the-go friendly
Cons
- Higher price point
- Not a concealer or color corrector
Buying Guide
Choosing the Best Under Eye Brightener depends on how you want the product to work in your routine. Some shoppers want immediate cosmetic coverage, while others want a treatment-style formula that supports the eye area over time. Thinking about your specific goal makes it easier to narrow the options.
Key Brightening Style
Decide whether you want a concealer, color corrector, eye balm, serum, or powder. Concealers and correctors help create instant brightness, while serums and balms are more focused on the appearance and feel of the under-eye area in a skincare routine.
Texture and Finish
Texture matters because the under-eye area is delicate and visible. Creams, putties, gels, balms, and powders all behave differently on skin. A lighter texture may feel more comfortable, while a fuller-coverage formula may be better if your main goal is masking darkness.
Shade and Undertone
Some products are designed in specific shades like Light Rose, Fair, or Soft Pink. The right undertone can help brighten the under-eye area more naturally. If a product is too light or too warm, it may not give the effect you want.
Ingredients Mentioned by the Brand
Several products in this list mention ingredients such as hyaluronic acid, shea butter, caffeine, vitamin E, centella asiatica, EGCG, and vitamin C. Those ingredients are often highlighted for hydration or a refreshed appearance, so they can help guide your selection.
Coverage Level
If you want to blur dark circles immediately, full coverage concealers may be the better choice. If you prefer something lightweight and natural-looking, a brightening balm, gel, or powder may suit you better.
Price and Rating
Price is important, but so is value. A lower-cost option may be enough for everyday use, while a higher-priced formula might be worth it if you want a specific finish or a more complete makeup step. Ratings can also help identify products that shoppers have responded well to overall.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Best Under Eye Brightener for everyday use?
The best everyday option depends on whether you want makeup or skincare. If you want a brightening concealer, products like Catrice Under Eye Brightener or Maybelline Instant Age Rewind may be practical. If you want a treatment-style product, a serum or eye gel may be better.
Should I choose a concealer or an eye serum?
Choose a concealer if you want quick visible coverage. Choose an eye serum or gel if you want a lighter product focused on the look and feel of the under-eye area rather than instant makeup coverage.
Are powders good for under-eye brightening?
Yes, powders can work well if you want to set makeup while adding brightness. bareMinerals Well Rested is a good example in this list because it is a powder brightener with SPF 20.
Which products are more affordable?
Several budget-friendly options are included here, such as Good Molecules Yerba Mate Wake Up Eye Gel, Catrice Under Eye Brightener, and e.l.f. Putty Color-Correcting Eye Brightener. These may be good starting points if you want to try a brightener without spending much.
Can under-eye brighteners be used alone?
Some can, especially if they are concealer-style products. Others are designed more like skincare and may work best under makeup or as part of a routine rather than as a standalone brightening step.
Conclusion
The Best Under Eye Brightener for you depends on how you want to brighten the under-eye area and what type of formula fits your routine. If you want a classic brightening product, Catrice and Maybelline are easy options to consider. If you want more targeted skincare, The Ordinary, Good Molecules, and TULA offer treatment-style alternatives. For fuller coverage, IT Cosmetics stands out, while bareMinerals brings a unique powder format with SPF.
With so many different textures, shades, and functions in this lineup, there is a useful option for nearly every preference. Whether you want something lightweight, hydrating, color-correcting, or more full coverage, this list gives you a strong starting point for finding the right product.