Best Serums for Under-Eye Puffiness: My Tested Reviews & Results

by: Linda Robison / Facial Fitness Specialist

Struggling with under-eye puffiness? I’ve tested more under-eye serums than I can count—some smoothed and tightened, others made things worse.

Below you’ll see real before-and-afters and honest reviews of what actually worked for puffiness and what didn’t. If puffiness makes eyeliner tricky, I’ve got tips for that too.

This page focuses on fixes that go beyond makeup: my top product picks, application tips, and how to avoid the flaky, cracked look many “instant firming” serums leave behind.

Want causes + long-term fixes? See my full guide to reducing puffy eyes—from allergies to at-home DIYs.

Woman applying serum for under-eye puffiness—targeting bags and crêpey skin

Quick Answer: Fast under-eye de-puffing

Quick list; for step-by-step, see my fast under-eye de-puffing tricks here.

  • Cold compress for 2–3 minutes
  • Apply a thin layer of a caffeine/peptide serum or instant film-former; let dry 5–10 minutes
  • Don’t rub; avoid heavy creams underneath
  • Longer-term: sleep slightly elevated, cut late-night salt, treat allergies, gentle retinol/peptides, daily SPF.

Note: Fat pads/festoons usually won't fully respond to topical serums.

What’s better than Plexaderm? (Best alternatives)

For daily wear and smoother makeup, Peter Thomas Roth Instant FirmX Eye usually outlasts Plexaderm thanks to a more flexible, hydrating film.

For a strong photo-ready lift, Insta-TOX can mimic Plexaderm’s tightening but is finicky if over-applied. Instantly Ageless is a cheaper, lighter quick fix.


See my full breakdown of products better than Plexaderm.

Why I needed a puffy eye solution

I've had lower eyelid puffiness and wrinkles since my early 20s! And, now that I'm older, my under-eye skin can look a bit wrinkly and crêpey!

Under eye puffiness before and after using over the counter under eye serums that instantly tighten and lift.My before and after results using serums under-eye puffiness. These photos have NOT been altered. The Easy Eye Solution (EES) serum helps blur away undereye lines.

After years of testing under-eye serums, I finally found a few that worked, without the usual irritation or flaking. Here’s what helped, what didn’t, and what might work for you. These are my personal experiences and opinions. Your results may vary.

1. Plexaderm Rapid Reduction Eye Serum

Verdict: Smoother than the old cream, but still fussy. Works best on bare skin; can feel dry and crack with expression. Sensitive skin may prefer EES.

Best for: Quick, photo-ready lift on clean skin.

  • Pros: Fast tightening; clearer finish than the old cream.
  • Cons: Drying on mature/sensitive skin; makeup layering is tricky; can leave residue.
  • Tip: Use a tiny amount; keep your face still 5–10 min to set.
  • Compare: See my Plexaderm vs competitors guide.

Insta-TOX vs Plexaderm (which works better?)

Both tighten fast; Plexaderm looks more dramatic but can crack with expression.

Insta-TOX is slightly gentler under makeup if you use a tiny, thinned layer and let it set. Wear time is short for both. See full review below:

Read more on my competitors page.

Instantly Ageless vs Plexaderm (quick fix or longer wear?)

Instantly Ageless is a budget quick fix for mild puffiness; it’s lighter but usually doesn’t last as long as Plexaderm. Keep layers thin to avoid caking or flaking. See full review below:

See more details on my Plex vs Competitors guide.

2. Preparation H under eyes (should you?)

Preparation-H texture—white, greasy gel with Vaseline-like consistency shown in a dropPreparation H has a thick, greasy texture—on thin under-eye skin it can migrate and look heavier, not smoother

Short answer: I don’t recommend it for the eye area. In my test it looked greasier and worse, not better.

Why I don’t recommend:

  • Not formulated/tested for the periocular area
  • Greasy/occlusive base can emphasize puffiness and pill under makeup
  • Can migrate into eyes → redness, burning, watering
  • Doesn’t treat common causes (fluid, allergies, fat pads/festoons)

Why people try it: They hope the temporary tightening you get elsewhere will de-puff under eyes.

If you’re going to try it anyway (not recommended): safer steps

  • Patch test on inner arm 24 hrs first
  • Keep well below the lower lash line; never on lids or near tear ducts
  • Use a rice-grain amount on clean, dry skin; don’t rub; let sit 5–10 min
  • Don’t combine the same night with retinoids/acids or thick occlusives
  • Stop and rinse if you feel stinging, redness, or swelling; if it gets in your eye, rinse thoroughly

What to use instead (works better + eye-safe)

  • Instant options: Peter Thomas Roth Instant FirmX Eye, Easy Eye Solutions
  • Long term options: See my guide: how to reduce puffy eyes

My test, bottom line: It didn’t reduce puffiness or refresh my look; the greasy texture made things worse. For real comparisons and safer options, see Plexaderm vs Preparation H.


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3. Instantly Ageless

Instantly Ageless texture—dry, crumbly orange-colored paste in a drop

Verdict: Works at first, then flakes. Hard to apply smoothly and doesn’t play well with makeup.

Best for: Occasional, short-wear touch-ups on bare skin.

  • Reduces puffiness initially; flakes after a few hours.
  • Chunky texture; often needs thinning; can look patchy.
  • I reach for PTR or EES instead when I need reliability.

4. Peter Thomas Roth Instant FirmX Eye

Peter Thomas Roth FirmX texture—thick white gel, similar to Vaseline, shown in a drop

Verdict: Fast visible de-puffing, but can leave a tight, powdery film if you overdo it.

Thomas Roth puffy eye serum compared to Easy Eye Solutions.Under-eye puffiness is less, but I don't like the white film it left. Using less serum can help reduce with the film.

Best for: Events/quick fixes; light makeup or none.

  • Works in minutes; strong tightening.
  • Use less than you think; mix with a drop of water if needed.
  • If residue appears, you used too much or layered over heavy cream.
  • Wondering whether it lasts as long as Plexaderm? See my comparison.

Wondering if Peter Thomas Roth FirmX Eye lasts as long as Plexaderm? Check out this comparison.

5. INSTA-TOX - Serious Skincare

Insta-Tox serum flesh colored texture—thick, wet cream with chunky consistency shown in a drop

Verdict: Very liquid—shake well. OK for mild puffiness; weaker than PTR for serious bags. Dries powdery.

Best for: Quick, budget-friendly lift on mild puffiness. 

  • Can sputter if separated; apply a thin layer and let set.
  • Short wear; residue risk—if that’s unavoidable, I’d pick PTR.

6. Easy Eye Solutions Instant Eye Tuck

Easy Eye Solutions serum texture—clear, soft gel shown in a drop

Verdict: My top pick. Gentle, smooth, and works under makeup without cracking.

Best for: Sensitive/mature skin; daily wear.

  • Soft gel blurs criss-cross/crepey texture.
  • Apply a tiny amount; let dry before concealer.
  • Easiest “instant” option I’ve used for consistent results.




7. Dr. Brandt No More Baggage

Dr. Brandt No More Baggage serum texture—orange colored cream-gel consistency in a drop

Verdict: Nice light gel for mild puffiness/brightening; not a heavy lifter.

Best for: Subtle de-puff + brighter look; makeup days.

  • Dries clear (no visible residue).
  • Finding the right amount takes a try or two.
  • Less firming than PTR/EES, but gentler finish.

Top 3 picks: For Under-Eye Solutions

  1. Easy Eye Solutions — Best overall (daily wear). Smooths/tightens without cracking and plays nicely under makeup.
  2. Peter Thomas Roth Instant FirmX Eye — Best instant, event-day lift. Visibly de-puffs in minutes; use a tiny amount and let set.
  3. Dr. Brandt No More Baggage — Best for mild puffiness + brightening. Lightweight gel, dries clear; less firming than the two above.

CTA: Try the one that fits your needs, and tell me which worked best for you!

How to effectively use an Under Eye Puffiness Serum

Best Way to Get a Flawless Finish

To reap the benefits of under-eye serums, you need to know how to apply them correctly. You don't need to be a makeup artist to get it right. You don't need to use a setting spray, setting powder, or cream concealers.

And you don't need a beauty blender or makeup brush to smooth it on...Just your ring finger. Here is my advice:

How much under-eye serum to use: a small drop on fingertip for precise applicationIn this photo, I'm using the Easy Eye Solution Serum.
  1. Apply a non-oily hydrating eye cream under the eyes.
  2. Apply a tiny drop, half the size of a pea—don’t overdo it!
  3. Gently smooth it from the inner corners under the lash line outward across the undereye area.

A little goes a long way, adjust the amount next time until you find what works. I usually apply this serum after finishing my makeup, just before heading out the door.



Best eye serum for puffy eyes: Summary

Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links

Here is a quick summary of the review of anti-aging eye products I've tried: EES, Peter Thomas Roth, Plexaderm, Instantly Ageless, Insta-TOX, Dr. Brandt No More Baggage.

  • Easy Eye Solutions (EES)  - is by far the most effective, less drying and easy to apply. Just swipe it under each eye, let dry, and you're ready to go!

EES - 50% OFF & FREE Shipping

EES - On Amazon  

  • Peter Thomas Roth - worked well to reduce puffiness, But it might be too drying for sensitive or mature skin.

Peter Thomas Roth FirmX on Amazon

  • Plexaderm Rapid Reduction - I was not too crazy about the old version. I don't know what the serum feels like. But, if you're interested in trying, you can purchase it on Amazon.

Plexaderm Rapid Reduction Eye Serum on Amazon

  • Instantly Ageless - for me this was the hardest to work with and didn't last as long as the others.

Instantly Ageless on Amazon

  • Insta-TOX Serious Skincare - Meh. It was ok, I didn't like how it dried. And it's a little hard to work with because it's so wet.

Serious Skincare Insta-TOX on Amazon

  • Dr. Brandt No More Baggage - Not bad, but not my favorite. It’s not too drying, but it doesn’t provide much firming either. Would probably work well for mild puffiness. 

Dr. Brandt No More Baggage



Finally:

If you’ve battled under-eye puffiness like I have, don’t give up. You don’t need pricey treatments or heavy concealer to look fresher.

Start with a lightweight tightening serum (Easy Eye Solutions or PTR Instant FirmX Eye), apply after hydrating, and let it set 5–10 minutes.

Want more real-life fixes that work for tired eyes, fine lines, and feeling fabulous after 40? Join my newsletter for beauty tips I actually use.

FAQs

Question: Is Plexaderm the same as hemorrhoid cream?

Answer:  No—Plexaderm is made for under-eye bags, while hemorrhoid creams are for inflammation in the lower body. The formulas and uses are totally different.

Question: Will hemorrhoid cream shrink eye bags?

Answer: Some people swear by it, but it’s not a good idea. Hemorrhoid creams like Preparation H are made for a completely different part of the body, and they’re often greasy or irritating under the eyes. I tried it myself, and it made the puffiness look worse—not better. There are better options designed for the under-eye area that feel smoother and give better results.

Question: What’s better than Plexaderm for under-eye puffiness?

Answer: I personally prefer Peter Thomas Roth FirmX and Easy Eye Solutions. They’re smoother, easier to apply, and didn’t flake like Plexaderm sometimes did.

Question: Can you wear makeup over Plexaderm?

Answer: It’s tricky. You’ll need to let it dry completely and use oil-free, lightweight makeup. I’ve had better results with Peter Thomas Roth for layering.

Question: Is there a permanent way to fix under-eye bags after 50?

Answer: Not permanently, but dermal fillers or surgery are longer-lasting options. I go the natural route with massage, serums, and consistency—and it’s helped.

Question: What’s the best drugstore eye cream for puffiness?

Answer: Try CeraVe Eye Repair Cream or RoC Retinol Correxion. They won’t give an instant lift, but they’re great for long-term skin health.

Question: Why do I suddenly have wrinkles under my eyes?

Answer: It could be dehydration, lack of sleep, sun exposure, or just natural aging. A gentle eye cream + sunscreen can help slow things down.

Question: Does Plexaderm work on turkey neck?

Answer: Not really. Plexaderm is designed to temporarily smooth the look of eye bags and fine lines. Wrinkles on the neck are caused by loose skin and a lack of tone. If you're looking for natural solutions for turkey neck, check out my full guide with before-and-after photos. If you're looking for natural solutions to tighten a turkey neck, check out this post. You'll also find my before and after neck pictures.

Question: How does Insta-tox compare to Plexaderm?

Answer: Insta-tox is a thick, white gel—similar to Peter Thomas Roth FirmX in texture. It works similarly to Plexaderm but can be stronger and slightly more drying on mature skin.

Question: Does Plexaderm get rid of bags under your eyes?

Answer: Plexaderm can help reduce the appearance of under-eye bags, but the effect is temporary. It tightens the skin using silicate minerals, which shrink puffiness for several hours. I’ve tested it myself—while I wasn’t a fan of the older cream version, the newer serum might perform better. Just don’t expect miracles or long-term results. It’s best for short-term lifting before photos or events.

Question: Can I use hemorrhoid cream for under-eye bags instead of a serum like Plexaderm?

Answer: A lot of people wonder about this, especially since older beauty “hacks” suggested using Preparation H under the eyes. But I don’t recommend it. It’s greasy, not made for facial skin, and in my case, it actually made the puffiness worse.

Eye serums like Plexaderm or Peter Thomas Roth are made to tighten the skin quickly and sit better under makeup — they’re just designed differently.

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About the Author:
Linda Robison is a Facial Fitness Specialist and the founder of Anti-Aging Beauty Zone. She shares expert insights on skincare, facial rejuvenation, and beauty treatments—blending traditional wisdom, personal experience, and science-backed research for both at-home and in-office solutions.

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