Shoppers Say This Retinol-Infused Eye Mask Is Like "Getting An Eye Lift"

While many people focus their skincare routines on addressing common concerns like fine lines, wrinkles, and uneven skin tone, some forget to give attention to the under-eye area. But it's actually a sensitive part of the face that requires extra TLC — and that's where eye masks come in.

The Pure Retinol Express Smoothing Eye Mask from Shiseido is an eye-centric product that hydrates underneath your eyes, reduces the appearance of dark circles, and smoothes out fine lines and wrinkles. The main ingredient is liquid retinol, which can help with everything from acne and brown spots to "fine lines, wrinkles, and textured skin," Aishe Blic, esthetician and co-founder of Glo Spa, previously told InStyle. Thanks to the inclusion of this anti-aging powerhouse in the formula, it may even have an advantage over other masks. It also incorporates a soothing antioxidant blend of chlorella, mukurossi, and gambir extracts, per the brand.

Another standout ingredient is hyaluronic acid. Dermatologist Lian Mack, MD, previously told InStyle that hyaluronic acid is commonly found in skincare products like moisturizers and serums because it can "help to reduce wrinkles and fine lines by creating a barrier that retains water in the skin." It's a natural substance that's typically non-irritating and "well-tolerated by all skin types," Dr. Mack added.

Shop now: $70; sephora.com

The under-eye masks come in 12 individually packaged pairs for $70, or a pack of three sets for just under $18. Although the price is higher than other eye patches on the market, shoppers say the results are worth it. One Sephora reviewer called them "the Bentley of eye masks" and wrote, "Truly see a difference after using these with fine lines, brightness, and tightness around eyes. Worth the money. Breaks down to about $5.80 per wear, and way better quality results than the $3 ones."

If you're skeptical about the results, Santa Monica-based dermatologist Tanya Kormeili, MD, says that eye masks "can help with puffiness, the dry appearance of the skin, and possibly deliver active ingredients for anti-aging." Dr. Kormeili also recommends doing a quick test on your skin to make sure you're not allergic before committing to an eye mask, since "the eyelid skin is so delicate and can get irritated rapidly."

Hundreds of Sephora customers shared their results with the retinol eye patches, calling them "extremely moisturizing," and even saying that they produce "procedure results." One person wrote, "It's like getting an eye lift. Very impressive results from this mask. I pack these on my business trips and use them after flying (or staying out too late.) [There is a] luscious liquid that absorbs well and is effective, particularly for ladies in my age bracket. Better than the Chanel equivalent."

Another shopper said they work "wonders" and added, "I was amazed at how well these lighten the dark circles under my eyes. The smell is soothing and frankly helped get rid of a busy day's headache. The treatment is a spa experience. Although your circles are somewhat better immediately, the real difference shows up the next morning. The price is high, but the return is good."

If you're not giving your under-eye area enough attention, head to Sephora's site to snag these luxury eye masks with results so good, shoppers compare it to getting an eye lift.

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