Are you team morning or team night when it comes to applying eye cream? This small but mighty step in your skincare routine can make a big difference—if used correctly. But deciding when to use it can feel a bit like choosing between coffee and tea (why not both, right?).

If you’re wondering whether you should slather on your eye cream in the morning, at night, or both, don’t worry—we’ve got you covered! Here’s a deep dive into when to apply your eye cream and why timing matters for those delicate under-eyes.

Why Is Eye Cream Important?

First, the big question—why bother with eye cream at all? The skin under your eyes is super thin and delicate, making it extra prone to fine lines, puffiness, and dark circles. Regular moisturizers can sometimes be too harsh or heavy for this sensitive area, which is where the targeted power of eye cream comes into play. Eye creams are specially formulated to address specific concerns like hydration, anti-aging, puffiness, or discoloration.

Now that we know why eye cream matters, it’s time to tackle the “when.”

Benefits of Applying Eye Cream in the Morning

Applying eye cream in the morning is all about setting the stage for the day ahead. Here’s why morning application can make a difference:

• Hydration Boost: A morning eye cream hydrates your under-eye area, helping your concealer glide on smoother (no more creasy makeup!).
• Puffiness Reduction: Look for eye creams with caffeine or cooling ingredients to de-puff and wake up tired eyes.
• Protection: Many daytime eye creams include SPF or antioxidants to guard your skin against environmental stressors like UV damage and pollution.

Tips for Morning Use:

• Apply your eye cream first, and give it a minute to absorb before jumping into your makeup routine.
• Choose a lightweight formula that layers easily under makeup without pilling or greasiness.

Benefits of Applying Eye Cream at Night

Nighttime is when your skin goes into repair mode, making it the perfect time to give some extra TLC to your under-eye area. Here’s why applying eye cream before bed is a smart move:

• Deep Nourishment: Night eye creams are typically richer and packed with hydrating ingredients, which help restore moisture as you sleep.
• Active Ingredients at Work: Nighttime formulas often include active ingredients like retinol or peptides that target fine lines and stimulate collagen production.
• Targeted Repair: This is your chance to tackle stubborn concerns like dark circles and wrinkles when your body is naturally regenerating.

Tips for Night Use:

• Gently pat (don’t rub!) the eye cream into your skin with your ring finger to avoid tugging on this delicate area.
• A little goes a long way—use a pea-sized amount for both eyes.

Can You Use Eye Cream Both Morning and Night?

Absolutely! Different times call for different benefits, so using eye cream twice a day can give your under-eye area 24/7 support. Use a lightweight, protective formula in the morning and a nourishing, restorative formula before bed.

However, listen to your skin! If you’re just starting out, you can opt for once a day and see how your skin responds before doubling up.

Final Thoughts

The best time to apply eye cream really depends on your lifestyle and skincare goals. Morning for protection, night for repair—or why not both? No matter when you apply it, the key is consistency.

Empower your skincare routine by choosing the right products and sticking to the process. Your under-eyes will thank you with a refreshed, glowing look that’ll leave you feeling confident and radiant.