Whenever my life feels like it's veering into disarray, my first step toward recovery is applying eye patches in the morning. Cool to the touch, the refreshing texture of an under-eye patch makes me feel like I'm making up for lost sleep. But here's the thing about eye patches: They often feel more performative than functional. That is, unless you're using them correctly.
Ahead, we asked board-certified dermatologists Howard Sobel, MD, Asmi Berry, DO, and Nava Greenfield, MD, whether eye patches actually work, how to use them properly so you're not just getting a placebo effect, and how they compare to eye creams. Read on for more.
Meet the Experts
- Howard Sobel, MD, is a clinical attending dermatologic surgeon at Lenox Hill Hospital and the founder of Sobel Skin Rx.
- Asmi Berry, DO, FAAD, is a board-certified dermatologist in Los Angeles.
- Nava Greenfield, MD, is a board-certified dermatologist of Schweiger Dermatology Group in New York City.
What Are Under-Eye Patches?
Under-eye patches are small, contoured patches typically made from a gel or hydrogel material infused with serum, Sobel says. "Their unique crescent shape allows them to sit comfortably under the eye to address the delicate skin around the area."
They're designed to sit under the eyes and deliver targeted ingredients to treat under-eye skincare concerns: "Most people use them to hydrate the skin under the eye, improve fine lines, wrinkles, and crow's feet, and reduce dark circles and puffiness," says Sobel. While not all eye patches contain the same ingredients, they generally offer temporary benefits that help awaken the under-eye area and create a more refreshed appearance. Adds Berry: "They create an occlusive barrier, helping ingredients like caffeine, hyaluronic acid, and peptides absorb more effectively and faster into the delicate eye area."
Do They Actually Work?
"They can work well, but for short-term results," says Berry. Sobel agrees, noting that eye patches temporarily boost hydration and help reduce puffiness. Additionally, they can smooth crepey skin and lessen the appearance of dark circles. "They aren't a permanent solution for long-term under-eye concerns. That's something best addressed with in-office treatments by a board-certified dermatologist," he explains. "But they can offer a quick fix in the short term."
Berry recommends looking for patches with clinically backed ingredients like caffeine to target puffiness, peptides for firming, and hyaluronic acid for hydration. "While they won't erase wrinkles permanently, they're great for an instantly refreshed look before an event," she says. "Look for hydrogel or bio-cellulose materials, which deliver ingredients more effectively than paper or cotton."
How to Use Them Correctly
Sobel recommends applying under-eye patches to a clean face and leaving them on for about 15 minutes. He adds that after you take them off, you can even massage any remaining serum into the skin. Storing them in the refrigerator can enhance their cooling and de-puffing effect on the under-eye area.
Berry and Sobel say you can use eye patches a few times a week or even daily if your skin tolerates them, as they are generally safe for everyday use. However, Greenfield warns against placing them over active acne, open wounds, rashes, or infections.
Eye Cream vs. Eye Patches
Deciding between a daily eye cream and under-eye patches can be confusing. Sobel explains that eye patches are typically marketed for immediate results to wake up tired eyes, while eye creams should be part of your regular skincare routine for long-term benefits. "I recommend starting to use eye creams in your early twenties," he says. "I like eye creams formulated with retinol to increase collagen production [and] with niacinamide and hyaluronic acid to improve hydration. Eye creams are also great for reducing inflammation and brightening the skin."
Greenfield adds that eye patches are generally only used on the lower eyelids, whereas eye cream can be applied to both the upper and lower lids. "The patches will have a deeper penetration and delivery of ingredients," she adds. "But cream can be used morning and night, so it really depends on what you are looking for."
The Final Takeaway
While eye creams are best for daily, long-term treatment and prevention, eye patches are a great quick fix, perfect for when you need an instant boost or are especially tired. Berry explains that eye creams are particularly effective for hydration, firming, and brightening over time and that eye patches work well before big events when you want to look more refreshed. For best results, she recommends using eye patches in the morning and eye cream both morning and night. You can also apply eye cream after removing the patches to help seal in the benefits.
