What Does Retinol Eye Cream Do? Your Complete Guide

Widely considered the ‘gold standard’ in anti-ageing ingredients, retinol has been highly revered by dermatologists for its plumping, regenerating powers. In face serums and creams, it tackles everything from wrinkles to dullness to skin sagging – but because of its potency, some are still cautious when it comes to using retinol around the eyes.  

It makes sense. The skin around the eye area tends to be thinner than on the rest of your face, so it’s more vulnerable to damage, sensitivities and irritation. However, new-generation retinol eye creams are delivering on benefits while still being gentle. So, at last, you can safely target crow’s feet, dark circles and eye wrinkles with this powerful ingredient. 

Let’s take a closer look at the many benefits of retinol eye creams, including a just-launched formula that’s 3x more effective¹ than ordinary retinol… 

What is retinol?

Retinol is a vitamin A derivative that deeply penetrates your skin, allowing it to trigger collagen production, boost cell turnover and, in turn, reward you with a smoother complexion. Its ability to speed up the shedding of old cells makes it useful for a range of skin concerns, whether you’re targeting blemishes, smoothing wrinkles, fading dark spots or brightening dull skin.  

But, because it’s so uniquely powerful – often hailed as the most effective anti-ager – retinol works best when teamed with other, deeply nourishing ingredients. Whether you’re targeting the eyes or treating the face, retinol is at its most beneficial when enveloped in a plush, luxurious cream that treats your skin to a boost of hydration. 

Retinol vs. retinoid: what's the difference?

In skincare, the names retinol and retinoid are often used interchangeably, but these active ingredients are far more different than they sound. While they’re both derivatives of vitamin A, retinoids are super-strength, prescription-only creams that need to be used with care in order to reduce their side effects. Meanwhile, retinol is a gentle yet still effective alternative, and can be found in ‘over the counter’ face and eye creams that fit into your daily routine with ease. 

Is retinol safe for under-eyes?

Yes, retinol is safe for under-eyes – as long as you use the right products. That means you mustn’t use a face retinol in this area, as the strength may be too high for the thin, delicate skin. Instead, use a specialised retinol eye cream that’s focused on keeping wrinkles and dark circles at bay; one that’s strong enough to make a visible difference, but gentle enough to soothe and hydrate. 

Introducing Shiseido's new retinol eye cream

Packed with the plumping power of retinol, Vital Perfection Uplifting and Firming Advanced Eye Cream is clinically proven to transform tired-looking eyes. It improves skin sagging, brightens dark circles and smooths deep wrinkles in just 1 week², thanks to next-generation technology that makes it 3x more effective than ordinary retinol¹. 

How, exactly? With a blend of SafflowerRED + Retinol ACE, which allows the retinol to work even deeper for boosted collagen production. The cream is also infused with Microvitaliser Technology, a scientific breakthrough that takes the cream to the next level, combine it with the accompanying Eye Massager and glide it along upper and lower eyelids. The cooling rollerball enhances the effects of the formula, giving you skin that looks 113% brighter³.  

How often can I apply retinol eye cream?

Vital Perfection Uplifting and Firming Advanced Eye Cream can be used daily. Apply it morning and night to clean, dry skin, smoothing it underneath your eyes and over upper eyelids with the accompanying Eye Massager tool for best results.  

Can I use retinol face and eye products together?

Yes, you can use retinol-based face and eye products together. In fact, we encourage it – the power ingredient holds benefits for every part of your skin. If you’re looking for a face product that works perfectly with the Vital Perfection Uplifting and Firming Advanced Eye Cream, try the Vital Perfection WrinkleSpot Treatment for ultra-targeted care. The supercharged serum visibly reduce wrinkles, smile lines and dark spots within 4 weeks⁴ while locking in 48-hour moisture⁵ that keeps your skin plump and protected. 

Ready to try retinol eye cream? Discover Vital Perfection Uplifting and Firming Advanced Eye Cream for wrinkle smoothing, eye brightening and youth enhancing in one luxurious formula. 

¹ In 1 week on crow’s feet and underneath eye wrinkles. Clinical test on 40 women. 

² Clinical test on 32 women. 

³ Versus eye cream alone. Instrumental test on 32 women after 1 week. 

⁴ Clinical test on 37 volunteers. 

⁵ Instrumental test on 10 volunteers.