Our under-eye area, especially for those of us who have sensitive skin, can be really delicate and prone to dryness and irritation—and sometimes skin-care products can exacerbate the problem. But rather than ditch eye creams altogether, we’re turning to this beloved French drugstore brand that specializes in skin care for sensitive complexions: The one and only Avène. Oui oui! Introducing: Avène’s Soothing Eye Contour Cream—which is 20 percent off now during Avène’s site-wide sale (just make sure to enter SAVE20 at checkout!). This ultra-hydrating under-eye cream is fiercely loved for how effectively it works de-puffing the area under eyes, as well as smoothing over fine lines and tired-looking skin.
What makes it so good: The ingredient breakdown
This lightweight cream is specifically formulated for people with sensitive under-eyes. It’s made with four essential ingredients, such as derm-approved hyaluronic acid to restore hydration to the area, and thermal spring water (which the brand is known for) to quell any signs of inflammation or irritation.
Also embedded into the formula is chamomile and pre-tocopheryl. Chamomile offers a jolt for tired eyes, reduces puffiness and helps you look more awake, while the stable form of vitamin E, pre-tocopheryl, fights against free radicals and environmental stressors that could age your skin.
The cream is best used twice daily and is ideal for all skin types. Simply squeeze a pea-sized amount and dab into the skin until it’s full absorbed. Bonus: It’s ophthalmologist-tested and approved.
The reviews are *really* good
“I typically have issues with eye creams,” said one Avene shopper. “I have had none whatsoever with this one. It moisturizes well and does a great job at smoothing lines and keeping the puffiness to a minimum. Great product!” Another Avene customer writes: “My new go-to. I have been having a lot of issue with the tissue surrounding my eyes, and this cream is fantastic. Hydrated without irritation. Great slip and feel on the skin. I feel like my eyes look less tired!”
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Another raving shopper who identifies as 65+ says, “This is the best for keeping my upper eyelids from drooping and looking crepe-y. I was in Europe last year and ran out. I tried several others (both expensive and not) but the expensive ones irritated my skin and the inexpensive ones just did nothing. When I got to France I ran to the Monoprix and bought Avene eye cream. What a difference!”
While you’re here, check out some of Avène’s other best-sellers (and W+G editor-beloved) products—all ideal for sensitive skin.
Avène Thermal Spring Water — $21.00
Originally $29, now $21
Avène Thermal Spring Water is perhaps the brand’s most sought-after, best-selling product—and for good reason. Packed with pre- and pro-biotics, the pH-balanced formula hydrates skin while eliminating redness and irritation. It’s a great mid-day pick-me-up that perks up tired skin, but can also be used as baseline prep before slathering on your serum and moisturizer. It’s basically the ultimate skin-care savior, and it suits all skin types.
“I spray this on my face in the morning before applying my serum and then again before my moisturizer. It helps my products sink in and not pill. I carry this water everywhere,” one shopper writes.
Avène Cicalfate+ Restorative Protective Cream — $20.00
Originally $28, now $20
One W+G writer swears by Cicalfate+ Restorative Protective Cream, claiming it’s even better than a $380 jar of La Mer—and she spoke to a dermatologist who confirmed it. “Avène [Cicalfate+ Restorative Protective Cream] is a much cleaner formulation, and contains zinc oxide which helps restore the skin barrier,” she says. “It has one potential allergen (propylene glycol), but it is a rare allergen,” board-certified dermatologist Alina Goldenberg, MD, MAS, FAAD, Director of Contact Dermatitis Clinic in San Diego, CA, previously told us.
The nourishing protective cream fights redness and irritation, infusing skin with lasting hydration that leaves the complexion looking dewy and naturally glowing. We’ll take five of these, thanks.
Avène Hydrance BOOST Concentrated Hydrating Serum — $31.00
Originally $39, now $31
This lightweight serum is ideal for summertime—it infuses skin with moisture without leaving it feeling weighed down or sticky, so you can easily layer the rest of your skin-care routine and makeup with no pilling. Thanks to marquee ingredients like hyaluronic acid (for intense hydration), vitamin B3 (this helps brighten skin), thermal spring water (this calms down irritation and redness), and NMF booster (more hydration), the benefits last up to 48 hours.
One shopper says, “I only received a sample and now I am ordering a bottle because this hydrating serum immediately makes my face feel moisturized and healthy. In. Love.”
Avène Cleanance Cleansing Gel — $24.00
Originally $30, now $24
Great for all skin types, but especially wonderful for those with sensitive complexions, the Cleanance Cleansing Gel expertly scrubs away dirt and grime without completely stripping away all natural oils. This leaves skin soft, hydrated, and clean—and avoids the overproduction of oil. Board-certified dermatologist Mona Gohara, MD, previously said it’s “a fantastic option for those with sensitive or allergic skin that is still prone to breakouts.”
Our editors independently select these products. Making a purchase through our links may earn Well+Good a commission.