11. Best serum with hyaluronic acid: The Ordinary Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5
- List price: $15.70
- Formulation: serum
- Size: 60 mL
- Skin type: all skin types
- Pro: cruelty-free and lightweight
- Con: may pill after application
This product’s main ingredient is hyaluronic acid. Although naturally present in the skin, its natural function does not involve hydrating the skin.
As a result, this formula uses three forms of hyaluronic acid, which the manufacturer combines with vitamin B5 to help plump the skin and deliver intense moisture.
Additionally, this product is reportedly lightweight, oil-free, and vegan-friendly. It does not contain alcohol, oils, silicones, or water.
The Ordinary also states it does not test products on animals. Most of the brand’s products have limited specific ingredients to try and limit potential irritation or negative reactions.
Reviews are very positive, with some buyers saying that it is better to use it on damp skin and apply a thicker moisturizer on top to lock it in. Some customers mention that the product can pill, but this could relate to how they use this serum or combine it with other products.
12. Best for temporary transformation: Peter Thomas Roth Instant FIRMx Eye Temporary Eye Tightener
- List price: around $38
- Formulation: cream
- Size: 1 fl oz
- Skin types: all skin types
- Pro: may help brighten and moisturize skin
- Con: people may have to avoid water-based makeup
This product contains silicates and seaweed extract. According to the company, these provide an instant temporary tightening effect around the eye area, including firming of crows’ feet. It also contains peptides that help reduce the look of puffiness and under-eye bags.
The formulation includes vitamin C in the form of ascorbic acid. This may help brighten the skin around the eyes. Panthenol, glycerin, and butylene glycol can help soothe the skin, keeping it hydrated and moisturized.
Some reviewers posted before and after photos when using this product, saying it may temporarily reduce the appearance of eye bags, fine lines, and wrinkles.
However, as the company says, the effects are only temporary. Buyers seem to agree, as some say that when they applied hydrating makeup on top, the wrinkles appeared more aggressive. In fact, the brand states to avoid using water-based makeup to prolong the effects of the eye cream.
This suggests consumers should not use makeup or water-based sunscreens or switch to oil-based products. This may cause problems for those who cannot tolerate these oils, such as those with oilier skin types.