I’ve tried various serums and Ayurvedic methods, like turmeric masks and tea bags, to reduce the presence of dark circles—especially on days when I’m on the go. au normal with my makeup. While these methods helped me, I knew I couldn’t bring a bowl of turmeric with me on a recent trip to the Cannes Film Festival… where I knew I’d be facing many nights of partying and days of constant communication (in other words, exhaustion and stress). Knowing that I wanted to keep my eyes looking their best for such an important event, I decided to replace my usual methods with L’Oréal Paris’ Hyaluronic Acid and Caffeine Eye Serum ($20), which has more than 30,000 five-star reviews on Amazon. In this high-pressure setting, my fingers were definitely skipped hoping it would live up to the hype.
The serum contains 2,5 percent hyaluronic acid and caffeine, which work together to address specific concerns in the eye area. according to Rebecca Marcus, MDa board-certified dermatologist and founder Maei MDHyaluronic acid is a powerful ingredient that hydrates and plumps skin, reducing the appearance of fine lines. Revitalift Filler Eye Serum contains macro and micro hyaluronic acid, which contains different sized particles that penetrate the skin at different levels to ensure peak hydration. This multi-molecule approach also delivers plumping benefits, softening lines around the eyes and reducing the appearance of wrinkles.
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The other key ingredient here is pure caffeine, which basically awakens the under-eye area to the same degree that drinking coffee wakes up your mind and body. When used topically, caffeine acts as a vasoconstrictor, meaning it constricts blood vessels and reduces inflammation in a way that makes it effective in reducing dark circles and puffiness. In addition to these immediate effects, caffeine also acts as a powerful antioxidant and prevents free radical damage to prevent visible signs of skin aging over time.
“The delicate under-eye area can benefit from both the hydrating properties of hyaluronic acid and the vasoconstricting properties of caffeine, which may help it appear brighter and less puffy,” confirms Dr. Marcus.
Also in the formula is glycerin, which doctors praise as the best “no bells and whistles” skin moisturizer. It is very gentle and acts as a humectant to draw water into the skin, leaving behind a radiant, hydrated result.
When it came time to test the serum out for myself, I used it every day for a week straight on bare skin right after cleansing my face. The applicator is designed with 3 stainless steel balls that provide a cooling effect that further helps reduce puffiness – which I loved. I only needed a few drops of the product to refresh my tired eyes, and it was super easy to apply before layering on my usual moisturizer, sunscreen, and makeup.
Speaking of which, the serum is designed to layer well under any concealer or foundation because its clear, liquid formula absorbs quickly into the skin without leaving any greasy or oily residue. For someone who has had to stand in the bright sun of the French Riviera, this was a pleasant surprise. During the summer, my skin tends to be drier and crack if it has excessive sweat and oil on it. Fortunately, this serum is formulated to work on all skin tones and textures in all seasons.
After a week of continuous use, I felt my under eye bags were lighter than usual. There were days on my trip to Cannes when I just applied some light concealer, and my skin looked even-toned. In the pictures, my under eye bags were almost invisible. If this is the result after a week, I can’t wait to see what the month does.
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