La Roche-Posay Hydraphase, Eyes, 15ml, €17.50

La Roche-Posay Hydraphase, Eyes, 15ml, €17.50


As long-standing fans of the ultra-gentle French range, we were looking forward to trying this product. The instructions encourage a four-step application for optimum effect that involves massaging the lower lid and applying light pressure to the temples to activate lymphatic circulation. Not very realistic when you're trying to get out the door of a morning – puffiness was definitely reduced but there was little impact on the dreaded dark circles.


Star rating: 3/5


Vichy Aqualia Thermal Eye Roll-On, 15ml, €17.50


This handy tube turns out to be a highly efficient little number. Promising to hydrate, soothe and fortify sensitive skin, with Dextran and Escin to help reduce under-eye bags and lighten dark circles, you, er, roll on the product and then use your fingertips to massage it from the inside of the under-eye contour out. Our sensitive-skinned tester liked the speed and lack of mess involved in the largely non-topical application method, and enjoyed its non-greasy and lightly tightening effects.


Star rating: 5/5


Garnier Nutritionist Caffeine Eye Roll-On, 15ml, €14.99


Cold tea bags have long been a favourite beauty trick for depuffing lids so it's no surprise it is a key ingredient in this Garnier product. This is a light and cooling moisturiser that rolls on easily and is perfect for popping in your handbag. But we have to confess we didn't notice any hugely discernable effect. Not great for those of us with suitcases under our eyes.


Star rating: 2/5


Aveda Tourmaline Charged Eye Crème, 15ml, €40


We adore Aveda's offerings and this is certainly a hero product. All the ingredients are naturally derived and plant-based and it's light like a serum but not greasy. It absorbs quickly, smelt really nice, was fine under makeup and definitely helped brighten the eye area, probably thanks to the silica it contains which minimsed dark circles. It is pricey however and it's only available from salons (call 0044 870 034 2380 for stockists), so it falls just short of a five-star rating


Star rating: 4/5