Eye masks have secured their status as a skincare essential and social media sensation in the ever-expanding world of beauty products, but do they actually work?
These hydrogel crescents promise brighter, revitalized under-eyes in just a few minutes but if we’re being honest, the moment we take the masks off and reveal our under-eyes, they are the same.
Skincare Savior?
We all eventually fell for the promise: put on some cooling eye masks, relax for 10 minutes, and say goodbye to puffiness and dark circles. It sounds like magic, but is it really? Self-care culture and the desire for effortless radiance are the exact reasons why these serum-soaked patches have taken over the beauty industry.
Are we only purchasing these fancy stickers or do they actually work? Although ingredients like collagen, hyaluronic acid and caffeine can give you a quick boost, physicians say that long-term skincare practices yield better effects. Still, eye masks remain the preferred quick fix for a quick refresh before a big day (or after a long night.)
The Sticky Science
The science behind these patches is relatively simple. By preventing evaporation, the hydrogel material’s occlusive properties force healthy benefits into the delicate under-eye skin rather than letting them evaporate like regular creams might.
Dr. Rebecca Lin, a board-certified dermatologist in Manhattan says “Eye patches provide immediate but temporary benefits through intensive hydration and ingredient delivery, most effective for when you need a quick refresh.”
While premium versions include active ingredients like caffeine (for depuffing), peptides (for fine lines) and various antioxidants, the majority of formulas contain hydrating powerhouses like glycerin and hyaluronic acid.
Chill Out for Better Results
Before applying, keep the patches refrigerated for maximum benefits. The cooling effect constricts blood vessels, which helps reduce the appearance of your dark circles and puffiness before the ingredients start working, explains aesthetician Maria Santos, founder of Glow Method Skincare Studio.
She also recommends cleaning thoroughly before application and leaving the patches on for the full recommended time, usually 15-20 minutes. A lot of users cut the time short and miss out on the full benefits.
VALLEY’s Picks
With so many eye masks promising to get rid of our under-eye bags, it’s hard to know which ones actually deliver. Here are some of our top picks:
- Best for Puffiness: Peter Thomas Roth Cucumber
- These are infused with cucumber extract and caffeine which work wonders on tired, puffy eyes.
- Best for Hydration: LANEIGE Water Bank
- Packed with hyaluronic acid, this cream will leave your under-eyes looking refreshed.
- Best Luxury Pick: 111SKIN
- Pricey? Yes. Worth it? Also, yes.
- Best Budget-Friendly: Pixi DetoxifEYE
- Affordable and effective.
What eye masks are your favorite? Let @VALLEYmag know on X!
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