Beauty

The 10 Best Under-Eye Patches for Puffiness, Tested & Vetted

Bye-bye bags

Candace Davison

By Candace Davison

Published Jul 4, 2024

Additional reporting by
Anna Vognsen

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Forget face masks, ice rollers or gallons of cold brew—if you want to feel refreshed after a sleepless night, a pair of cooling under-eye patches is key. After discovering my first set of hydrogel masks in the zombie-like early days of caring for a newborn, when every muscle in my face ached from getting up every two hours, I became a convert, recommending them to every new parent, college student and night owl I knew. And, as I tried different brands, I learned there’s a vast difference in how these under-eye masks are designed—and how refreshed you look and feel afterward.

So, what are the best under-eye patches for puffiness? And dark circles? And generally feeling more bright-eyed? Using a combination of firsthand testing and insights from celebrity esthetician Angela Caglia, I’ve narrowed things down to the ten best under-eye patches below. And, since preferences vary, I’ve included a few additional highly rated under-eye patches to consider at the bottom.

Meet the Expert

Angela Caglia has 28 years under her belt as a master esthetician. Trained by paramedical skincare experts in France and guided by leading stem cell scientists, chemists and her robust knowledge of ingredients, she has built an extensive A-list clientele that includes Barbra Streisand, Helena Christensen, Camila Morrone, Riley Keough and Sting.

How I Chose the Best Under-Eye Patches for Puffiness

Caglia recommends looking for patches with a micro-stimulant that combats fluid retention, like caffeine or rosemary, if you really want to depuff (more on that in the FAQ’s below). It’s also good to look for products with anti-inflammatory and hydrating ingredients, like hyaluronic acid and niacinamide. Using that—and the recommendations Caglia provided PureWow contributor Anna Vognsen, when she initially reported this story as a baseline—I researched and began testing various top-reviewed brands.

I tested each brand at least twice, once while seated and once while performing every day tasks—typing, sweeping, unloading a dishwasher and even doing a downward dog—to see how well they stayed put. I also considered how refreshed my under-eye area felt after using them; how comfortable they were to wear; whether signs of puffiness, dark circles and fine lines were diminished; and how long those effects seemed to linger.

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What Are the Best Under-Eye Patches for Puffiness?

When looking for the best under-eye patches for puffiness, you’ll want to look for active ingredients (see below for Caglia’s recommendations!) that work to combat fluid retention without irritation. Nourishing and anti-inflammatory ingredients like hyaluronic acid and niacinamide can also help hydrate and restore the skin while depuffing, making the area look better overall. Skin is at its thinnest under the eye, so it’s crucial that the patches you choose address your needs while protecting this sensitive area.

VP of editorial content

Candace Davison

VP of editorial content

  • Oversees home, food and commerce articles
  • Author of two cookbooks and has contributed recipes to three others
  • Named one of 2023's Outstanding Young Alumni at the University of South Florida, where she studied mass communications and business

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