15 Best Under-Eye Patches and Masks, Tested & Reviewed for 2024

This is armor for your insomnia.

In today’s fast-paced world, we can hardly be blamed for wanting a quick-fix. The reality is that when it comes to skin, there aren’t many instances of instant gratification, especially when it comes to more severe concerns. However, if you struggle with puffiness, dark circles, and wrinkles in the area around your eyes, you’re in luck—there’s a host of products on the market that can act as antidotes with near-instant results, like caffeine eye creams, under-eye wrinkle fillers, and brightening concealers. But one of the most effective and easiest methods for achieving picture-perfect under eyes in a pinch is popping on some under-eye patches.

For full transparency, these masks are usually temporary solutions, as they don’t necessarily get to the root of the problem or eradicate the issue for longer than a day or so. “Patches can offer some minimal to modest improvement, so it’s important to have the right expectations,” explains dermatologist Dr. Omar Ibrahimi. “However, these are usually fairly well-tolerated and come with minimal risk.” Plus, they don’t require much work on your part, so you can apply them and go about your day while the patches envelop your under eyes in hydrating, soothing ingredients. You can also stick them in the fridge before using them to enhance their cooling and de-puffing effects—especially handy when you’re struggling to wake up in the early hours of the day.

After consulting skin experts, testing a variety of options ourselves, and reading countless customer reviews, we landed on the below as the 15 best under-eye patches for smoother, brighter, and more youthful-looking under eyes.

You may have seen these eye patches on the coolest beauty girls and boys, but there’s more than meets the eye when it comes to the Topicals Faded Under-Eye Masks. The formula features a host of healing and brightening ingredients, like caffeine, niacinamide, and kojic acid. In just 15 minutes, you’ll look like you’ve had your eight hours of sleep (even if you haven’t).

Key ingredients: Niacinamide, tranexamic acid, kojic acid, caffeine, arbutin

Pairs per pack: 6

Topicals rating: 4.8/5 stars

An ELLE editor says: “When I think about buying a face mask, I tend to ask myself two questions: Are they effective? And are they cute enough to wear outside? With these, it’s a resounding yes to both. These hydrogel patches help to fade discoloration and hydrate your eye area while delivering a soothing cooling sensation. With my sensitive and dry skin, it’s really important for me to show my under-eyes some extra love, so these always come in handy. I always pop these on when I have some down time or if I’m running quick errands.”—Tasha Nicole Smith, beauty assistant

You can forget about constantly refilling your stash and opt for these delightfully reusable patches that have taken TikTok by storm. Made of soft, medical-grade silicone, they’re packed with potent ingredients, like niacinamide, caffeine, and hyaluronic acid, to visibly soothe, brighten, and plump. Bonus: They’ll also help lock in your favorite skincare products for even better results.

Key ingredients: Glycerin, peptides, niacinamide

Pairs per pack: 1

Dieux rating: 4.7/5 stars

An ELLE editor says: “The idea of a reusable eye mask is clever, but it also works. I’ve tried the Dieux eye mask (made of silicone) on top of my favorite eye cream on just one side. After a few minutes, the side with the mask was slightly brighter and less crepey-looking, which made my tired, grey eye circles on the other side stand out more. And you can keep using it—if not forever, then for a long time.”—Kathleen Hou, ELLE beauty director

Alexa, play “24K Magic” by Bruno Mars. These eye patches actually contain 24K gold, with skincare benefits that include firming and lifting. Meanwhile, hydrolyzed collagen helps airbrush out any fine lines, and caffeine shakes out that heavy feeling on your lids from early mornings.

Key ingredients: Collagen, caffeine, hyaluronic acid, gold

Pairs per pack: 30

Walmart rating: 4.3/5 stars

An ELLE editor says: “I cannot tell a lie—I fell for the hype with this one. I’ve seen this mask on my feed countless times at this point, so I decided that I needed to try it for myself. These eye patches are indeed a true treat for my under eyes; they depuff and smooth out the skin in the area within minutes, and I feel extra fancy having gold-infused masks on my face. They do smell slightly medicinal, but not in a bad way, and the scent is nearly undetectable unless you’re placing them under your nose (which I wouldn’t recommend).”—Carol Lee, ELLE.com associate beauty e-commerce writer

Patchology has mastered the art of creating eye patches for any situation. The Serve Chilled On Ice version soothes, firms, tightens, and smooths, all made possible thanks to peptides, bakuchiol, and cloudberry oil, which is chock-full of brightening vitamin C.

Key ingredients: Cloudberry oil, bakuchiol, peptides

Pairs per pack: 5

Amazon rating: 4.5/5 stars

An ELLE editor says: “Coffee doesn’t do anything for me, which is why I don’t drink it often. But every time I wake up more exhausted and sluggish than usual, I wish I could indulge in a cup and have it rejuvenate me in the way it seems to do for everyone else. However, Patchology’s eye patches have become my personal wake-up trick. I slap a pair on in the morning, and I feel ten times more awake and aware of my surroundings than I did without them. They’re perfect even on busy mornings since I only need a few minutes with them to experience their effects.”—Carol Lee

Brighter under-eyes are coming, especially if you try these sun-shaped masks. They’re soaked in a serum packed with banana extract and hydrogel to soothe and brighten. Plenty of copper peptides, which encourage collagen production and plump skin, are in the mix too.

Key ingredients: Copper, bakuchiol

Pairs per pack: 1

Ulta rating: 4.4/5 stars

Our expert says: “These patches make it look like you have copper sun rays under your eyes. When running on minimal sleep, I put these on post-shower, and by the time I’m ready for work, it looks like I snuck in three additional hours of sleep. I love them!”—Danielle James, beauty expert

This uber-luxe under-eye mask will give even the most sensitive skin the pick-me-up it needs. The formula contains diamond particles that exfoliate the skin, so the active ingredients can get to work and soak in for hydrating, brightening results.

Key ingredients: Diamond particles, hyaluronic acid, hexapeptide, rose hip

Pairs per pack: 8

Saks Fifth Avenue rating: 4.9/5 stars

An ELLE editor says: “This is one of the most luxurious eye masks, but I really think it’s one of the best for an almost immediate result. It really feels like it forms a seal to infuse my under-eye area with moisture so that they look less dry and more plumped up. Also, it has a cooling effect. Maybe the fact that it’s black also makes me feel like it’s seriously working, or it could be its hydrating yet functional formula of retinol, niacinamide, and hyaluronic acid.”—Kathleen Hou

Developed by Dr. Catherine Chang, a board-certified plastic and reconstructive surgeon, these eye masks are designed to infuse the skin with impactful ingredients within 10 to 15 minutes. The serum is packed with vitamin C and ferulic acid to brighten dark under eyes and fight wrinkles, while caffeine banishes any puffiness you might be experiencing.

Key ingredients: Caffeine, vitamin C, niacinamide, ferulic acid

Pairs per pack: 7

NakedBeauty MD rating: 4.9/5 stars

An ELLE editor says: “True to their name, these eye masks have the gentle aroma of rose, which adds to the luxurious experience of using them. They’re instantly cooling, even without being refrigerated beforehand, and I can feel how hydrated, supple, and smooth my under eyes feel after I take them off. I recently took a couple of flights back-to-back, and I kicked myself for not packing these in my carry-on—my eye area definitely would’ve been in much better shape if I had. The pink-tinted patches are also definitely Instagram-worthy.”—Carol Lee

These reusable eye patches were created to help smooth and hydrate the under-eye area. If you travel a lot or are worried about losing a pair, this set comes with extras, so you can keep some at work or let a guest borrow a set when they come to visit.

Key ingredients: Shea butter, ceramides

Pairs per pack: 6

Talika rating: 4.9/5 stars

An ELLE editor says: “Drew Barrymore loves these eye patches and I love them for the same reason. Much like the Dieux, they are also reusable but come in a set of three so that if you loose one or even two, you still always have a backup.”—Kathleen Hou

If you are someone who enjoys using eye masks often, it might be better to invest in them in bulk. For just $30, this K-beauty set comes with a whopping 30 pairs. That means you can use them liberally and not worry about running out any time soon.

Key ingredients: Marine extracts

Pairs per pack: 30

Amazon rating: 4.3/5 stars

An ELLE editor says: “Why would I want just 12 eye masks or some teeny number of them, versus 30? I like that this is literally a tub of eye masks and that it’s minimal waste, too, because they’re stacked on top of each other like cookies. My friend Alicia Yoon, founder of Peach & Lily, was the one who introduced me to Shangpree, a legendary Korean facialist purveyor whose estheticians are required to do three years of training before they’re even allowed to touch a face. Naturally, their products are made with the same level of fastidiousness.”—Kathleen Hou

If you love indulging in spa nights on the regular, this pack of 24K gold- and hyaluronic acid-infused eye patches will have you covered. Amazon reviewers mention that they visibly help plump and smooth skin and are non-irritating.

Key ingredients: Collagen, hyaluronic acid, aloe vera

Pairs per pack: 16

Amazon rating: 4.4/5 stars

An Amazon reviewer says: “I’ve tried plenty of eye masks from different brands, and I can honestly say, with these specifically, I’m impressed! All the eye masks I use normally slip down after a few minutes (which I thought was normal until using these). The material doesn’t break apart easily, and apart from the quality, it is hydrating and feels so refreshing. I intended to keep them on for 15 minutes but ended up keeping them on for about 25 minutes because I couldn’t get enough of the tingling feeling! So relaxing. Will definitely be adding to my skincare routine one to two [times] weekly.”

Perk up tired eyes with an energizing blend of vitamin C, licorice, and ginseng. Note that these are paraben-free and great for all skin types, too.

Key ingredients: Vitamin C, licorice, ginseng

Pairs per pack: 30

Amazon rating: 4.4/5 stars

An Amazon reviewer says: “These eye patches have saved my under eyes. I am a night shift nurse and struggle with dark circles and tired eyes. These are cool and soothing, [and] they come with an applicator, so you can easily scoop the moist patches out and apply. Love the brand and product so much!”

You might not be at a spa with cucumber slices on your eyes, but this is the next best thing. These masks are nourishing, calming, and safe for even the most sensitive wearer. Pro tip: Pop these in the freezer for extra cooling effects.

Key ingredients: Caffeine, cucumber extract, aloe vera

Pairs per pack: 8

Amazon rating: 4.1/5 stars

An Amazon reviewer says: “These eye masks are a repeat purchase for me. With extremely sensitive skin, I found this product delivers exceptionally for the price point. I can actually afford to use them often and experienced no irritation of skin or eyes. The masks are light and thin in texture. Very easy to remove with visible results for the under eye area and crow’s [feet].”

Look fabulous during and after an application of these gold foil eye masks. Powered by anti-inflammatory and brightening camu camu extract as well as plumping peptides, the patches erase signs of exhaustion in minutes. They come with a lot of serum, so you can apply any excess product onto your under eyes afterward for extra hydration.

Key ingredients: Hyaluronic acid, peptides, vitamin C

Pairs per pack: 6

Sephora rating: 4.1/5 stars

A Sephora reviewer says: “The name of this product speaks for itself, and most importantly, does exactly what it promises to do! I have huge under eye circles (genetics), and they tend to get super puffy in the mornings, so I’m always on a mission to make them look smaller before applying makeup. These patches worked so well and actually helped reduce the look of the ‘baggage.’ The packaging is great, too; I can bring the patches anywhere with me, and that’s exactly what I was looking for!”

You put vitamin C on your face to deal with hyperpigmentation and dullness, so why not do the same for your under eyes? Plus, a jolt of caffeine in these works to banish puffiness. If your goal is to make everyone around you think you sleep for eight hours a night, these will do the trick.

Key ingredients: Caffeine, vitamin C

Pairs per pack: 30

Ulta rating: 4/5 stars

An Ulta reviewer says: “Be sure to read the instructions carefully and use the spatula when applying the eye patches to get the best results. I used these patches two times a week, and after a few weeks, I saw a reduction in puffiness and fine lines. My eye area looks brighter, more refreshed, and younger.”

No need to stress, just throw on some of these hemp-infused eye masks and watch your worries drift away. These masks help hydrate and calm the sensitive skin near your eyes, thanks to green tea extract. The sweet kiwi smell might just trigger your cravings, too.

Key ingredients: Niacinamide, caffeine, cucumber extract

Pairs per pack: 30

Amazon rating: 4.1/5 stars

An Amazon reviewer says: “I love how this gets rid of dark circles, but more importantly for me, it takes the puffiness and bags away! My kids and husband noticed it immediately. I don’t always have the full 20 minutes to leave it on, but 10 minutes does the trick!”

Dr. Karan Lal is a celebrity dermatologist currently practicing at Schweiger Dermatology Group.

Dr. Omar Ibrahimi is a dermatologist with Connecticut Skin Institute.

“Dark circles are multifactorial and can be due to loss of fat from aging, veins that are creating that dark appearance under the skin, and/or hyperpigmentation from chronic rubbing,” says Dr. Lal. “After dark circles, the next big complaint is wrinkling and crepiness. This is due to skin thinning as we age. Sun damage also contributes to skin thinning.”

A good skincare routine coupled with professional treatments can bring the results you desire. “The under-eye area is an area that needs procedures,” Dr. Lal adds. “Filler, neuromodulators, fractional ablative resurfacing, and or picosecond lasers are needed to truly make your under-eye issues better.”

“Yes, there are a variety of ingredients, including hyaluronic acid, caffeine, green tea, and niacinamide,” says Dr. Ibrahimi. “Ingredients like retinol or vitamin C can also help but beware, these may be more irritating.” If you’re looking for some gold under-eye patches, beware that some people can find them sensitizing. “Gold can actually cause hyperpigmentation, and some people can be allergic to gold,” warns Dr. Lal. Gold and other heavy metals can leave a blue-gray pigment behind, but in most cases, this hyperpigmentation is reversible.

“Yes, applying them before bedtime and sleeping with them allows many uninterrupted hours of application where the ingredients will work,” says Dr. Ibrahimi.

Nerisha Penrose is the Beauty Commerce Editor at ELLE.com. Prior to joining the team, she was an Editorial Fellow at ELLE.com. In her current role, she helps lead coverage on makeup, skin care, hair, and fragrances. With over six years of experience in the world of beauty editorial, Nerisha enjoys delving deep into the complexities of fragrance notes, hunting for the best fixes for acne-prone skin, and advocating for daily sunscreen use. She regularly researches and tests the latest products, consults beauty professionals (including our Beauty Advisory Board) to determine the best expert-approved formulas to recommend, and conducts interviews with luminaries across the industry. Nerisha received her bachelor’s degree in Communication and Media Studies from Temple University before joining the editorial teams at Nylon and Billboard. In 2020, she co-launched our popular franchise The State of Black Beauty, an ongoing exploration of—and destination for—beauty at the intersection of Black culture.

Carol Lee is the Associate Beauty E-Commerce Writer at ELLE.com, where she covers all things beauty and personal care. Before joining the team, she was an editor at Food Network Magazine and HGTV Magazine and ran the beauty section at The Pioneer Woman. Carol received her bachelor’s degree in Journalism from New York University and was one of the first customers to visit Glossier’s flagship store in New York’s Soho neighborhood. Over the years, she’s tested countless makeup, hair, and skin care products, and written hundreds of articles covering the beauty space, from pieces about the trendiest launches to roundups of the best products on the market. As a Korean-American, she grew up in a sea of Korean makeup and skin care products and is a bona fide expert on the ever-expanding world of K-beauty, helping lead our coverage. Additionally, she’s also always on the hunt for the perfect lipstick and watches the same few comfort sitcoms (Frasier, Cheers, Seinfeld, New Girl, etc.) over and over again.

Mona Gohara, M.D. is a Yale-trained, board-certified dermatologist, Oberlin College-bred feminist, medical media expert, fashion fanatic, mom, wife, and virgo. Mona enjoys educating on skin health, skin cancer, skin of color, and sun protection. She has done this through writing, lecturing on the local, national, and international levels, and by engaging popular media. Mona is an active member of the American Academy of Dermatology, where she chaired the social media task force, The Women’s Dermatologic Society where she serves as president, and The American Society For Dermatologic Surgery, where she chairs the DEI Work Group. She is also a member of Prevention’s Medical Review Board.

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