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Banana Bright+ Eye Crème

Banana Bright+ Eye Crème

Product Description

Product overview

Made in Various INTERNATIONAL

A bestselling fragrance-free vitamin C eye cream powered by a triple vitamin C complex with real gold that instantly brightens, visibly diminishes dark circles and crow's feet, and improves concealer application and wear. Winner of the 2023 Allure Reader's Choice Award.

Fragrance-Free Cruelty-Free Paraben-Free Sulfate-Free Phthalate-Free Clean at Sephora Allure Award Winner Vegan
Pregnancy
Yes
Fungal Acne
No
Comedogenic
2/5
Size
15ml / 0.5oz
Price
$42
Per ml
$2.80/ml
Type
Eye Cream
Key Active
Triple Vitamin C
Real reviews · YouTube Shorts
Why it's different

Triple Vitamin C Complex with Gold

Three forms of vitamin C (3-O-Ethyl Ascorbic Acid, Tetrahexyldecyl Ascorbate, and pure Ascorbic Acid) delivered via a real gold system for enhanced brightening of dark circles.

01

Texture & feel

SENSORY
Consistency
Rich cream
Scent
Fragrance-free
Absorption
30-60 seconds
Finish
Luminous / Dewy

Triple Vitamin C Complex with Gold

Three forms of vitamin C (3-O-Ethyl Ascorbic Acid, Tetrahexyldecyl Ascorbate, and pure Ascorbic Acid) delivered via a real gold system for enhanced brightening of dark circles.

Banana Powder-Inspired Pigments

Light-reflecting mineral pigments provide instant color correction, neutralizing blue and purple undertones under the eyes for an immediately brighter look.

Hardy Orange Extract & Bioflavonoids

Antioxidant-rich hardy orange extract combined with grapefruit and mandarin bioflavonoids helps neutralize free radicals and environmental aggressors.

Nourishing Lipid Base

Jojoba seed oil and shea butter deeply hydrate the delicate under-eye area while creating a smooth, crease-resistant canvas for concealer application.

02

Safety & compatibility

SAFE
Pregnancy & Breastfeeding Safe

Contains no retinoids, hydroquinone, or chemical sunscreens. Vitamin C is considered safe during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Recommended by pregnancy-safe skincare guides.

Not Fungal Acne (Malassezia) Safe

Contains polysorbate 20, esters (coco-caprylate/caprate, pentaerythrityl tetraisostearate), and fatty acids (linoleic acid, linolenic acid) that may feed malassezia yeast.

Low Comedogenic Risk (2/5)

While it contains shea butter and jojoba oil (comedogenic rating 2), the overall formulation is designed for the delicate eye area and is unlikely to cause breakouts for most people.

Vitamin C Sensitivity

Some users report irritation, puffiness, or burning. The brand notes some people may have an undiagnosed allergy to topical vitamin C. Patch test before full application, especially on sensitive skin.

Clean Formula

Free from parabens, sulfates, phthalates, and added fragrance. Reformulated in 2022 to be fragrance-free. Meets Sephora's Clean standard.

Cruelty-Free & Vegan

OLEHENRIKSEN does not test finished products or ingredients on animals, and neither do their suppliers or any third parties.

03

Ingredient breakdown

INGREDIENTS

3-O-Ethyl Ascorbic Acid ~3-5%Proven

A highly stable and water-soluble vitamin C derivative that penetrates skin effectively. It inhibits melanin production to brighten dark circles and provides potent antioxidant protection against UV-induced free radical damage.

  • Stability: Far more stable than pure ascorbic acid; does not oxidize as quickly in formulation.
  • Efficacy: Studies show it is rapidly absorbed into skin and converted to active ascorbic acid intracellularly.
  • Brightening: Inhibits tyrosinase enzyme activity to reduce hyperpigmentation and dark circles over time.
Listed high in the INCI list (6th position), indicating a meaningful concentration in the formula.

Tetrahexyldecyl Ascorbate ~1-2%Proven

An oil-soluble vitamin C ester that penetrates the lipid barrier of the skin more effectively than water-soluble forms. Works synergistically with 3-O-Ethyl Ascorbic Acid for enhanced brightening.

  • Penetration: Oil-soluble nature allows deeper penetration into the skin's lipid layers.
  • Collagen: Stimulates collagen synthesis to help reduce fine lines around the eye area.
  • Stability: Highly stable ester form that resists oxidation in cream formulations.

GoldPromising

Real gold used as a delivery system for the vitamin C complex. Marketed as a gold delivery system to enhance the penetration and efficacy of the triple vitamin C complex in the formula.

  • Delivery: Gold nanoparticles have been studied for their ability to enhance active ingredient delivery into the skin.
  • Antioxidant: May provide additional antioxidant properties and help protect skin from oxidative stress.
The concentration of gold in cosmetics is typically very small. While gold delivery systems show promise in research, more studies are needed on topical cosmetic applications.

GlutathionePromising

A powerful antioxidant naturally produced by the body. In skincare, it helps brighten the skin by inhibiting melanin production and neutralizing free radicals that contribute to dark circles.

  • Brightening: Inhibits tyrosinase and switches melanin synthesis from dark eumelanin to lighter pheomelanin.
  • Antioxidant: Known as the master antioxidant, it helps recycle other antioxidants like vitamin C and E.

Poncirus Trifoliata (Hardy Orange) ExtractPromising

An antioxidant-rich plant extract from the hardy orange, known for its resilience in harsh environments. Pairs well with vitamin C to enhance brightening and antioxidant protection.

  • Antioxidant: Rich in flavonoids like poncirin and naringin that provide strong free radical protection.
  • Brightening: Helps to even out skin tone and improve radiance when used consistently.

47 ingredients

Aqua/Water/Eau, Simmondsia Chinensis (Jojoba) Seed Oil, Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea) Butter, Isododecane, Coconut Alkanes, 3-O-Ethyl Ascorbic Acid, Cetearyl Alcohol, Glycerin, C18-38 Alkyl Hydroxystearoyl Stearate, Dilinoleic Acid/Propanediol Copolymer, Polymethylsilsesquioxane, Cocoyl Proline, Dimethicone Crosspolymer, Pentaerythrityl Tetraisostearate, Tetrahexyldecyl Ascorbate, Ascorbic Acid, Gold, Glutathione, Citrus Nobilis (Mandarin Orange) Fruit Extract, Citrus Paradisi (Grapefruit) Peel Extract, Glucosyl Hesperidin, Tocopherol, Tamarindus Indica Seed Polysaccharide, Poncirus Trifoliata Fruit Extract, Morus Alba Root Extract, Linoleic Acid, Linolenic Acid, Jojoba Esters, Caprylyl Glycol, Coco-Caprylate/Caprate, Propanediol, Polyglyceryl-3 Cocoate, Polyglyceryl-4 Caprate, Polyglyceryl-6 Caprylate, Polyglyceryl-6 Ricinoleate, Hdi/Trimethylol Hexyllactone Crosspolymer, Polyacrylate-13, Butylene Glycol, Polyglyceryl-3 Stearate, Polysorbate 20, Sodium Citrate, Polyisobutene, Beheneth-5, Mica, Titanium Dioxide (CI 77891), Iron Oxides (CI 77491), Tin Oxide

FREE FROM: Parabens, Sulfates, Phthalates, Added Fragrance, Retinoids, Hydroquinone, Mineral Oil, Formaldehyde, Oxybenzone, SLS/SLES, Triclosan, Talc
04

Where it fits in your routine

ROUTINE
1
Cleanser
2
Toner
3
Serum
4
Eye Cream
5
Moisturizer
6
Sunscreen

Apply after serums and before moisturizer. Use AM and PM. In the morning, always follow with sunscreen as vitamin C can increase photosensitivity.

05

How to use

HOW TO USE
1

Cleanse & Prep

Start with a clean face. Apply any toner or serum first and allow them to absorb fully before applying eye cream.

2

Scoop a Small Amount

Using your ring finger, pick up a pea-sized amount of product from the jar. A little goes a long way with this rich formula.

3

Gently Pat Around Eye Area

Gently tap and pat the cream around the entire orbital bone area, including under the eyes and on the upper lids. Avoid rubbing or pulling the delicate skin.

4

Wear Alone or Under Makeup

Allow 30-60 seconds to absorb. Wear alone for a natural luminous look or use as a primer under concealer to improve and extend wear throughout the day.

06

Who is it for?

WHO

Perfect for you if:

  • You struggle with dark under-eye circles (especially blue/purple tones)
  • You want an eye cream that doubles as a concealer primer
  • You love instant brightening results with long-term anti-aging benefits
  • You want a fragrance-free, clean formula with multiple vitamin C forms
  • You are pregnant or breastfeeding and need a safe eye cream
  • You want a cruelty-free and vegan product

Consider alternatives if:

  • You have a known allergy or sensitivity to topical vitamin C
  • You have fungal acne (malassezia) — this formula is not FA-safe
  • You prefer a lightweight gel texture over a richer cream
  • You are on a tight budget — at $42 for 15ml it is a premium product
  • You primarily want to address puffiness (no caffeine in formula)
  • You prefer an airless pump over an open-jar packaging
07

Skin type compatibility

SKIN TYPES
Normal Skin
Excellent

Ideal match. Rich enough to nourish without being heavy. Provides both hydration and brightening benefits.

Dry Skin
Excellent

Shea butter and jojoba oil deliver deep hydration. Excellent for combating dry, crepey under-eye skin.

Oily Skin
Good

Rich cream formula may feel slightly heavy. Use a smaller amount and allow full absorption before applying makeup.

Combination Skin
Excellent

Works well around the eyes for all combination types. The under-eye area is typically drier, making this a great fit.

Sensitive Skin
Moderate

Fragrance-free but contains potent vitamin C that may cause irritation. Patch test behind the ear first. Some users report reactions.

Acne-Prone Skin
Good

Low comedogenic rating (2/5). Eye area is less prone to breakouts. Not recommended for those with fungal acne.

08

Results timeline

WEEK 8+
Immediate

Instant Brightening & Color Correction

Light-reflecting banana powder-inspired mineral pigments immediately neutralize blue and purple under-eye tones. Creates a smooth, luminous canvas for concealer.

97% noticed smoother skin
Week 1-2

Improved Hydration & Texture

Jojoba oil, shea butter, and glycerin deeply hydrate the under-eye area. Skin feels softer and more supple. Fine dehydration lines begin to appear less visible.

94% reported softer skin
Week 4-6

Visible Dark Circle Reduction

The triple vitamin C complex begins to show cumulative brightening effects. Hyperpigmentation under the eyes starts to fade noticeably with consistent AM/PM use.

85% saw brighter under-eyes
Week 8+

Reduced Fine Lines & Crow's Feet

Vitamin C-driven collagen stimulation helps plump and firm the skin. Crow's feet and expression lines around the eyes appear visibly diminished.

78% noticed fewer fine lines
09

Ratings by platform

11K+ REVIEWS
Sephora
4.2
Rating
5,800+
Reviews
Main complaint: Some users report irritation, puffiness, or burning sensation upon application
Ulta
4.3
Rating
1,200+
Reviews
Main complaint: Small jar size for the premium price point ($42 for 0.5oz)
Amazon
4.4
Rating
3,500+
Reviews
Main complaint: Concerns about receiving older or reformulated versions; verify seller authenticity
OleHenriksen.com
4.3
Rating
900+
Reviews
Main complaint: Jar packaging not hygienic; some notice oil separation over time
10

Pros & cons

BALANCED

Praised

  • Instant brightening and color-correcting effect on dark circles
  • Excellent as a concealer primer — extends makeup wear
  • Fragrance-free reformulation (since 2022) is gentler
  • Triple vitamin C complex provides both immediate and long-term benefits
  • A little goes a long way — jar lasts 3-4 months with daily use
  • Clean, cruelty-free, vegan formula without parabens or sulfates
  • Rich yet non-greasy texture that absorbs well
  • Allure Reader's Choice Award winner (2023)

Criticized

  • Some users experience irritation, puffiness, or allergic reactions to vitamin C
  • Premium price at $42 for only 15ml / 0.5oz
  • Jar packaging is less hygienic than pump or tube — exposes product to air and bacteria
  • No caffeine for depuffing — not ideal for puffy under-eyes
  • Not fungal acne safe due to esters and polysorbate 20
  • Oil separation reported by some users over time
  • May feel too rich or heavy for very oily skin types
  • Color-correcting tint may be visible on very dark skin tones
11

Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)

DUPES
65% Match
Earth to Skin Super Fruits Banana Brightening Eye Cream
$9.00
Budget Pick

Contains shea butter and a similar banana-inspired scent/color. Lacks the triple vitamin C complex and gold delivery system. Some testers found it dried down clumpy, but one found it nearly identical.

63% Match
Skin Renewing Eye Cream
$25.00
Similar

Closest ingredient match among dupes. Contains vitamin C and vitamin E. Offers comparable hydration but lacks the unique gold delivery system and triple vitamin C formula.

58% Match
Vitamin C Super Serum Plus
$20.00
Budget Pick

Most community-loved dupe. Contains vitamin C and retinol for dual brightening and anti-aging action. Lighter gel-cream texture. Lacks the instant color-correcting pigments.

60% Match
Bright Idea Vitamin C + Tri-Peptide Collagen Protecting & Brightening Moisturizer
$23.00
Budget Pick

Uses the same vitamin C derivative (3-O-Ethyl Ascorbic Acid) plus tri-peptides for collagen support. Clean, vegan, and fragrance-free. Lacks the gold complex and banana pigments.

12

Comparison with competitors

SIDE-BY-SIDE

Bliss Bright Idea Vitamin C Eye Cream

Key Active 3-O-Ethyl Ascorbic Acid + Tri-Peptides
Size 15ml / 0.5oz
Price per ml $1.53/ml
Fragrance Fragrance-Free
Instant Effect No
Caffeine No
Packaging Tube
Vitamin C Super Serum Plus
Key Active Vitamin C + Retinol
Size 15ml / 0.5oz
Price per ml $1.33/ml
Fragrance Fragrance-Free
Instant Effect No
Caffeine No
Packaging Tube
Ginzing Brightening Eye Cream
Key Active Coffee Bean + Ginseng
Size 15ml / 0.5oz
Price per ml $2.33/ml
Fragrance Fragranced
Instant Effect Yes (tinted)
Caffeine Yes
Packaging Jar
13

Storage & shelf life

12 MONTHS
Period After Opening (PAO)

12 months after opening

Storage

Close jar tightly and store in a cool, dark, dry place below 25°C / 77°F. Vitamin C degrades with light and heat exposure.

Packaging

Glass jar with screw-top lid. Opaque orange packaging helps protect vitamin C from light degradation.

Travel Friendly

Yes, under 100ml (15ml). TSA/airport security compliant for carry-on luggage.

13

Frequently asked questions

FAQ

Yes. Banana Bright+ Eye Crème does not contain any retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, or chemical sunscreens — the key ingredients to avoid during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Its active ingredients are vitamin C derivatives, which are considered safe for topical use during pregnancy by dermatologists. It has been recommended by multiple pregnancy-safe skincare guides. Always consult your OB-GYN before starting any new skincare product.

No. This product is not considered fungal acne safe. It contains several ingredients that may feed malassezia yeast, including Polysorbate 20, Coco-Caprylate/Caprate, Pentaerythrityl Tetraisostearate, Linoleic Acid, and Linolenic Acid. If you have fungal acne or are prone to it, consider a simpler eye cream without esters, fatty acids, or polysorbates.

Vitamin C: Yes, you can layer it with other vitamin C serums for enhanced brightening. Retinol: Use with caution — apply retinol at night and this eye cream in the morning to avoid potential irritation, or alternate nights. AHA/BHA: Avoid applying acids directly to the under-eye area where you use this cream, as the combination can be too harsh for the delicate skin. Always introduce new combinations gradually.

This eye cream works best for normal, dry, and combination skin types. Its rich formula with shea butter and jojoba oil is especially nourishing for dry under-eyes. Those with oily skin may want to use a smaller amount. Sensitive skin types should patch test first, as the potent vitamin C concentration can cause reactions in some individuals.

You will see instant brightening from the first application thanks to the light-reflecting mineral pigments. For cumulative skincare benefits — reduced dark circles, improved skin texture, and diminished fine lines — expect to see noticeable results within 4-8 weeks of consistent twice-daily use. An 8-week consumer study found that 97% of participants noticed smoother skin.

Apply after cleansing, toning, and serum, but before moisturizer and sunscreen. It is step 4 in a typical 6-step routine: Cleanser, Toner, Serum, Eye Cream (this product), Moisturizer, Sunscreen. You can use it both morning and evening. In the morning, it works beautifully as a concealer primer.

This eye cream has a comedogenic rating of approximately 2 out of 5 (low risk). It contains shea butter and jojoba oil, which have a moderate comedogenic rating individually. However, the overall formulation is designed for the delicate eye area and is generally well-tolerated. The skin around the eyes has fewer pores than other facial areas, making clogged pores less likely in this application zone.

The Period After Opening (PAO) is 12 months. However, since vitamin C is sensitive to air, light, and heat, always close the jar tightly after each use and store it in a cool, dark place below 25°C (77°F). A 15ml jar typically lasts 3-4 months with twice-daily use, as only a pea-sized amount is needed per application. If the product changes color significantly or develops an off smell, discard it.

— Skincarisma verdict
4.2 / 5 ★★★★☆

Verdict: OLEHENRIKSEN Banana Bright+ Eye Crème is a well-formulated, award-winning eye cream that delivers on its promise of instant brightening while providing long-term dark circle and fine line reduction through a potent triple vitamin C complex. The unique gold delivery system and banana powder-inspired color-correcting pigments set it apart from competitors. Its fragrance-free, clean formula is pregnancy-safe and cruelty-free. The main drawbacks are the premium price ($42 for 15ml), jar packaging that exposes the vitamin C to air, and the potential for irritation in vitamin C-sensitive individuals. If you want an eye cream that doubles as a concealer primer with real brightening actives behind it, this is one of the best on the market.

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Product Overview

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Just because a product is not free from a common preference does not mean it's a bad product! You can make a personal decision whether or not you want to use a product that contains these ingredients or not - click the labels of the preference to read more about them.

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Quick Product Notes

Click on icons for more information
question
lightbulb What are Notable Effects & Ingredients?

Ever used a product that promised a certain effect but provided no results? It might not have contained any notable ingredients that could have been responsible for that promised effect. It doesn't matter what the marketing or packaging «promises» it can do, if it doesn't contain anything that can help - then the likelihood of it helping is low.

We help you identify key notable ingredients that have been shown to help with effects such as acne-fighting, brightening, UV-protection, wound healing & anti-aging to help you achieve your skincare goals smarter. Please note that different notable ingredients have varying levels of research behind them, some are extremely well proven yet some have mixed research in their efficacy.

muscle Pro Tip Alert!

Just because a product doesn't contain any notable ingredients doesn't mean it's bad. And a product with notable ingredients (or even many) doesn't necessarily guarantee the efficacy of the product performing these effects either. There are other factors such as ingredient quality, concentration and formulation that will ultimately determine this.

Be smart and use this as just a starting point for you to make more informed and smarter choices and compare it with reviews to see if the product is right for you

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Notable Effects & Ingredients

anti-aging Anti-Aging from 4 ingredient(s):
Tetrahexyldecyl Ascorbate Ascorbic Acid Tocopherol Citric Acid
brightening Brightening from 6 ingredient(s):
Glycerin Tetrahexyldecyl Ascorbate Ascorbic Acid Glutathione Morus Alba Root Extract Citric Acid
wound Promotes Wound Healing from 5 ingredient(s):
Glycerin Ascorbic Acid Tocopherol Linoleic Acid Citric Acid
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Why are some products great for some people and horrible for others? Well everyone has different skin types and different reactions to the same ingredients.

We've identified a range of ingredients that are commonly regarded as potentially good or bad for those with Dry, Oily/Acne-Prone or Sensitive skin.

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A product that contains good or bad ingredients for your skin type doesn't always flat out make the entire product good or bad for your skin. There are other factors such as ingredient quality, concentration and formulation that will ultimately determine your skins reaction.

One of the best ways to use this section is to troubleshoot products you've had bad experiences with in the past. Check if it contains any of the marked ingredients to point out suspect ingredients to avoid in the future!

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Ingredients Related to Skin Types

Click on icons for more information
dry-skin Dry Skin
4
oily-skin Oily/Acne-Prone Skin
1
sensitive-skin Sensitive Skin
question
lightbulb What is the Ingredient Safety Breakdown?

Ingredient Safety Breakdown refers to the percentage % of ingredients in different risk categories as classified by EWG (Environment Working Group) if they are available. There are almost endless cosmetic ingredients and they are one of the few organisations globally that have assigned ratings to a lot of the more commonly used ingredients which is why we reference them.

muscle Pro Tip Alert!

EWG is seen by many to be more on the alarmist side in their assignment of health ratings resulting in rating ingredients as riskier than they actually are. We recommend using this a reference point rather than a strict guide of ingredient safety and to always do further research if into ingredients that you may find suspect.

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Ingredient Safety Breakdown

EWG Health Ratings
Low risk
Medium risk
High risk
Unknown risk
49% 3% 47%

Product ingredient list

Showing first 5 of 61 ingredients
EWG CIR Ingredient Name & Cosmetic Functions Notes
1 Unknown
Water
Solvent, Skin Conditioning
1 B
Isododecane
Solvent, Perfuming, Emollient, Fragrance
1 Unknown
Coconut Alkanes
Solvent, Emollient
0 Unknown
3-O-Ethyl Ascorbic Acid
Skin Conditioning
Redness
Texture
Pores
1 A
Cetearyl Alcohol
Emulsion Stabilising, Opacifying, Foam Boosting, Viscosity Increasingagent - Aqueous, Viscosity Increasing Agent, Emollient, Emulsifying, Viscosity Controlling
VIEW ALL INGREDIENTS