Creamy Eye Treatment with Avocado
Creamy Eye Treatment with Avocado
Product Description
Product overview
A rich, moisturizing eye treatment formulated with Avocado Oil, Shea Butter, and Beta-Carotene to hydrate, de-puff, and brighten the delicate under-eye area. This iconic water-in-oil formula delivers an instant burst of hydration that smooths fine lines and combats digital eye fatigue.
Instant Hydration Burst
Unique water-in-oil formula breaks on contact, releasing a burst of moisture that instantly hydrates the delicate under-eye area.
Texture & feel
SENSORYInstant Hydration Burst
Unique water-in-oil formula breaks on contact, releasing a burst of moisture that instantly hydrates the delicate under-eye area.
Brightens & De-Puffs
Beta-Carotene and Copper PCA work together to brighten tired-looking eyes and reduce visible puffiness after just one use.
Gentle Enough for Sensitive Skin
Ophthalmologist- and dermatologist-tested formula that won't migrate into eyes. Free from parabens, fragrances, and silicones.
Doubles as Eye Primer
Grips concealer and eye makeup to prevent settling into fine lines, keeping makeup smooth and crease-free throughout the day.
Safety & compatibility
SAFEContains Isodecyl Salicylate, a mild salicylic acid derivative. Generally considered low risk at this concentration, but consult your doctor before use during pregnancy or breastfeeding.
Not fungal acne safe. Contains multiple triggers including Avocado Oil, Shea Butter, Sorbitan Sesquioleate, Isocetyl Stearoyl Stearate, and Isopropyl Palmitate that may feed Malassezia yeast.
Ophthalmologist- and dermatologist-tested. Fragrance-free, paraben-free, and formulated specifically for the delicate eye area. Safe for sensitive skin types.
Low to moderate comedogenic risk. Avocado Oil ranges 0–3 on the comedogenic scale, but the eye area is less prone to clogged pores than the T-zone.
Free from the top 11 most common allergens as determined by Mayo Clinic research. No lanolin, gluten, soy, or common preservative allergens.
Safe to layer with retinol, Vitamin C, AHAs, and BHAs. The rich, occlusive formula can act as a protective buffer when applied before or after actives.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSAvocado Oil (Persea Gratissima Oil) ~5–10%Proven
A highly moisturizing emollient oil rich in oleic acid (70%), palmitic acid (10%), and linoleic acid (8%). Contains vitamins A, D, and E with extraordinary skin penetration abilities that nourish multiple skin layers.
- Function: Emollient, antioxidant, skin-conditioning agent
- Oleic Acid Content: ~70%, providing deep moisturization for dry skin
- Penetration: Among the best plant oils for skin absorption, delivering nutrients to deeper layers
Shea Butter (Butyrospermum Parkii Butter) ~10–15%Proven
Listed as the second ingredient, Shea Butter is a rich emollient that defends against dehydration, restores suppleness, and improves the appearance of dry skin. A cornerstone of this formula's luxurious texture.
- Function: Occlusive emollient, anti-inflammatory, skin barrier support
- Fatty Acid Profile: Rich in stearic and oleic acids for deep nourishment
- Clinical Use: Widely studied for its ability to protect and repair the skin barrier
Sodium PCA 0.5–0.75%Proven
The sodium salt of pyrrolidone carboxylic acid, a natural component of the skin's own natural moisturizing factor (NMF). Binds moisture to the skin for sustained hydration.
- Function: Humectant, skin-identical moisturizing ingredient
- NMF Component: Mirrors the skin's own hydration mechanism
- Comedogenic Rating: 0 — completely non-comedogenic
Beta-Carotene (CI 40800) <0.1%Promising
A naturally derived antioxidant predominantly found in orange and red vegetables. Provides antioxidant defense and gives the eye cream its signature pale green-yellow tint. Used in Vitamin A production.
- Function: Antioxidant, colorant, provitamin A
- Source: Naturally derived carotenoid pigment
- Note: Present at very low concentration — primarily provides color and mild antioxidant benefits
Copper PCA 0.25–0.5%Promising
A copper salt of pyrrolidone carboxylic acid that provides humectant properties while delivering trace copper to support skin health. Helps fortify the under-eye area and retain moisture.
- Function: Humectant, skin-conditioning agent
- Copper Benefit: Trace mineral that may support collagen synthesis
- Irritancy: Very low — gentle enough for the delicate eye area
Tocopheryl Acetate (Vitamin E) <1%Proven
A stable form of Vitamin E that provides antioxidant protection, helps moisturize the skin, and protects against free radical damage. Also helps stabilize the overall formula.
- Function: Antioxidant, moisturizer, formula stabilizer
- Skin Benefit: Shields skin from environmental stressors and UV-induced free radicals
- Stability: More stable than pure tocopherol, converting to active Vitamin E on the skin
26 ingredients
Aqua/Water, Butyrospermum Parkii Butter/Shea Butter, Butylene Glycol, Tridecyl Stearate, PEG-30 Dipolyhydroxystearate, Isodecyl Salicylate, Tridecyl Trimellitate, Persea Gratissima Oil/Avocado Oil, Isocetyl Stearoyl Stearate, Propylene Glycol, Dipentaerythrityl Hexacaprylate/Hexacaprate, Sorbitan Sesquioleate, Magnesium Sulfate, Hydrogenated Castor Oil, Sodium PCA, Phenoxyethanol, Chlorphenesin, Hydrogenated Jojoba Oil, P-Anisic Acid, Tocopheryl Acetate, Isopropyl Palmitate, Disodium EDTA, Copper PCA, Helianthus Annuus Seed Oil/Sunflower Seed Oil, CI 40800/Beta-Carotene, Citric Acid
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEApply morning and night after cleansing and toning, before your moisturizer. Can also be used as a 10-minute hydrating eye mask.
How to use
HOW TO USEScoop a Rice-Grain Amount
Use your ring finger to scoop a small, rice-grain-sized amount from the jar. A little goes a long way with this concentrated formula.
Warm Between Fingers
Rub the cream between your ring fingers to break the water-in-oil emulsion. You'll feel the texture transform from thick cream to a refreshing burst of hydration.
Gently Tap Around Eye Area
Using your ring finger, gently tap and pat the cream along the orbital bone around the entire eye area. Avoid pulling or dragging the delicate skin.
Allow to Absorb
Let the formula fully absorb for about 60 seconds before applying moisturizer, makeup, or sunscreen on top. Use twice daily for best results.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You have dry, dehydrated under-eye skin that needs intensive moisture
- You experience puffiness or tired-looking eyes from screen time
- You want an eye cream that doubles as a makeup primer
- You have sensitive eyes and need a fragrance-free, gentle formula
- You prefer a rich, nourishing texture over lightweight gels
- You want a paraben-free, silicone-free clean formula
Consider alternatives if:
- You have fungal acne (malassezia) — this formula contains multiple triggers
- You need strong anti-aging actives like retinol or peptides
- You prefer lightweight, gel-type eye creams for oily skin
- You want a budget-friendly option under $20
- You need targeted dark circle treatment with Vitamin C or caffeine
- You are strictly avoiding all salicylate derivatives during pregnancy
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESThis eye cream was made for dry skin. The rich Shea Butter and Avocado Oil formula delivers deep, lasting moisture that combats flakiness and tightness around the eyes.
Perfectly balanced hydration without feeling too heavy or too light. The unique water-in-oil formula adapts well to normal skin's needs.
Works well on the typically dry under-eye zone. Use sparingly to avoid a heavy feel if your skin runs oily overall. A rice-grain amount is enough.
May feel too rich for very oily skin, especially in warm weather. Consider using only at night or choosing a lighter gel-cream formula instead.
Ophthalmologist- and dermatologist-tested. Fragrance-free and paraben-free. Free from the top 11 most common allergens. Ideal for reactive, sensitive skin.
Comedogenic rating of 2/5 — acceptable for most, but contains oils and esters that could trigger breakouts in very acne-prone individuals. Not fungal acne safe.
Results timeline
WEEK 4+Immediate Hydration Boost
The water-in-oil formula breaks on contact, delivering an instant burst of moisture. Under-eye area feels softer and more supple. Skin looks visibly smoother and primed for makeup.
90% noticed instant moisturizationReduced Dryness & Improved Texture
Consistent use morning and night begins to address chronic dryness. Makeup no longer settles into fine lines. Under-eye area looks more refreshed after sleep.
90% reported smoother eye areaVisible De-Puffing & Brightening
Puffiness becomes noticeably reduced, especially in the morning. The under-eye area starts to appear brighter and more revitalized. Digital eye fatigue looks less apparent.
94% agreed eye area looks less puffyFull Hydration & Brightness Benefits
Maximum benefits realized with continued use. Under-eye texture improved by up to 25.8%, appearance of fatigue reduced by 19.5%, and brightness improved by 11% in clinical testing.
90% reported brighter under-eye areaRatings by platform
11K+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Incredibly hydrating and moisturizing for dry under-eyes
- Unique water-in-oil formula provides an instant burst of freshness
- Fragrance-free, paraben-free — gentle on sensitive eyes
- Doubles as an excellent makeup primer for the eye area
- Ophthalmologist-tested and does not migrate into eyes
- A little goes a long way — one jar lasts several months
- 99% naturally derived formula with clean ingredients
- Can be used as a 10-minute hydrating eye mask
Criticized
- High price point ($34–$55) compared to drugstore alternatives
- Slightly tacky texture can feel like it pulls on skin
- Jar packaging is less hygienic than tube or pump options
- Too heavy and rich for oily skin types
- Does not specifically address dark circles or wrinkles
- Beta-Carotene is present at very low concentration
- Not fungal acne safe — multiple triggers in formula
- Counterfeit issues reported on third-party marketplaces
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPES
Contains shea butter and hyaluronic acid for similar hydration. Includes peptides and cucumber extract for added de-puffing. Lighter texture, more suitable for oily skin. No avocado oil.
Rich, nourishing formula with Vitamin E and hyaluronic acid. Similar thick, creamy texture. Lacks avocado oil and beta-carotene but provides comparable moisture barrier protection.
Ceramide-based formula focused on barrier repair. Contains niacinamide and hyaluronic acid. Lighter texture, less rich than Kiehl's. Better for acne-prone skin but less nourishing for very dry eyes.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDE
No7 Restore & Renew Eye Cream
Storage & shelf life
6 MONTHS6 months after opening
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Can be refrigerated for an extra de-puffing effect during application.
Glass jar with screw-top lid. Recyclable packaging. Jar design prevents product from migrating.
Yes — both sizes (14g and 28g) are well under the 100ml/3.4oz TSA carry-on limit. Sturdy glass jar is leak-resistant.
Frequently asked questions
FAQThis product contains Isodecyl Salicylate, a mild derivative of salicylic acid. While it is generally considered low risk at this concentration, it is not completely free of salicylate compounds. If you are strictly avoiding all salicylate derivatives during pregnancy or breastfeeding, consult your healthcare provider before use. Kiehl's recommends consulting your doctor for specific concerns regarding use during pregnancy.
No, this product is not fungal acne safe. It contains several ingredients that can feed Malassezia yeast, including Avocado Oil (high in fatty acids), Shea Butter, Tridecyl Stearate, PEG-30 Dipolyhydroxystearate, Isocetyl Stearoyl Stearate, Sorbitan Sesquioleate, Hydrogenated Castor Oil, and Isopropyl Palmitate. If you are prone to fungal acne around the eye area, consider a fungal-acne-safe alternative.
Yes! This eye cream is compatible with retinol, Vitamin C, AHAs, and BHAs. Its rich, occlusive texture can actually help buffer the under-eye area when layered over or under active ingredients. Kiehl's recommends pairing it with their Powerful-Strength Dark Circle Reducing Vitamin C Eye Serum for enhanced results. Apply the eye cream after water-based serums and before heavier creams.
This eye cream is best suited for dry, normal, and sensitive skin types. It excels at providing deep hydration for dehydrated under-eye areas. It also works well for combination skin when used sparingly. However, it may feel too rich for very oily skin types. Sephora lists it as suitable for Normal, Dry, Combination, and Oily skin.
You can expect instant hydration and smoothing from the very first application. In clinical studies over 4 weeks with 50 subjects, 94% agreed the eye area looks less puffy, 90% reported smoother texture, and 90% noticed brighter under-eyes. Full results for texture improvement (25.8%) and reduced fatigue appearance (19.5%) were measured after 28 days of consistent twice-daily use.
Apply after cleansing and toning, before your moisturizer and sunscreen. The recommended order is: Cleanser → Toner → Serum → Eye Cream (this product) → Moisturizer → Sunscreen (AM). Use morning and night. It can also be applied as a 10-minute eye mask: apply a thick layer, wait 10 minutes, then gently wipe away for an instant brightening boost.
This product has a comedogenic rating of approximately 2 out of 5. Avocado Oil itself ranges from 0–3 on the comedogenic scale depending on the source. Since the eye area is less prone to clogged pores than the T-zone or cheeks, most users will not experience breakouts. However, if you are extremely acne-prone, patch test first and monitor for any congestion.
Kiehl's recommends using the product within 6 months after opening (6M PAO). Since you only need a rice-grain-sized amount per application, the 14g (0.5 oz) jar typically lasts 2–3 months with twice-daily use, and the larger 28g (0.95 oz) jar can last 4–6 months. Store in a cool, dry place and always use clean fingers to scoop product from the jar.
Verdict: Kiehl's Creamy Eye Treatment with Avocado is a well-deserved cult classic for anyone seeking deep, lasting hydration for the under-eye area. Its unique water-in-oil formula delivers an unmatched burst of moisture that immediately smooths and softens. It excels for dry and sensitive skin types, and the fragrance-free, ophthalmologist-tested formula is reassuringly gentle. However, it falls short for those seeking potent anti-aging actives like retinol or peptides, and the rich formula is not suitable for fungal acne sufferers. At $34–$55, it is a premium investment — but one jar lasts months, and the results speak for themselves.Best for: dry, normal, and sensitive skin types looking for an everyday hydrating eye cream that doubles as a makeup primer.
Product Overview
What are Quick Product Notes?
Quick product notes are a great way to check if a product is free from commonly avoided ingredients by skincare enthusiasts. These preferences come about for different reasons depending on the ingredient such as personal experiences, sensitivities, health preferences & etc.
Pro Tip Alert!
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.
Quick Product Notes
Paraben-Free
Paraben-Free
Understanding Parabens
Parabens are a large group of preservatives which are used to prevent bacteria growing in cosmetic formulations. There has been some healthy controversy surrounding them due to a few studies finding paraben presence in breast tumours and breast tissue. However, the majority of the scientific community have deemed these findings non-conclusive due to the limitations of these studies. There's still a lot of support for avoiding parabens following the better safe than sorry route. If you do we completely support you! If you are concerned about the health safety of parabens, then feel free to avoid them by looking out for the Paraben-Free icon. If not, don't worry about it - they do have had one of the longest safety records as preservatives!
Which Ingredients are classified as Paraben?
A product will be paraben-free if it does not contain any of the following parabens:
- Sodium Isobutylparaben
- Sodium Ethylparaben
- Sodium Butylparaben
- Propylparaben
- Isopropylparaben
- Isobutylparaben
- Sodium Propylparaben
- Butylparaben
- Ethylparaben
- Sodium Methylparaben
- Methylparaben
Sulfate-Free
Sulfate-Free
Understanding Sulfates
Sulfates are a large group of ingredients which act as cleansing agents in Cosmetics. They help loosen up the dirt and grime from your skin and hair to allow for water to wash it away with ease. However some sulfates are so good at their job, they can wash off your skin’s own natural oils that keep it moisturised and protected which can lead to dryness and irritation. Most people will find no issues with sulfate, however if you find your skin doesn't like sulfates then free feel to avoid them by looking out for the sulfate-free icon on Skincarisma.
Which ingredients are classified as sulfates?
We've taken the Sulfates which are considered more harsh for our Sulfate-Free status. A product will be Sulfate-Free if it does not contain any of the following Sulfates:
- TEA-Dodecylbenzenesulfonate
- Ammonium Laureth Sulfate
- Sodium Lauryl Sulfate
- PEG-15 Cocamine
- Sodium Laureth Sulfate
- Sodium Cocoyl Sarcosinate
- Sodium C14-16 Olefin Sulfonate
- Dioctyl Sodium Sulfosuccinate
- Ammonium Xylenesulfonate
- Ammonium Lauryl Sulfate
- Sodium Xylenesulfonate
- Sodium Myreth Sulfate
- Sodium Lauryl Sulfoacetate
Alcohol-Free
Alcohol-Free
Understanding Simple Alcohols
Alcohol ingredients are widely used in cosmetics and come in different types. For the most part alcohols are not problematic at all. However one type of alcohols, simple alcohols can be quite drying to the skin because it evaporates very quickly. This can cause irritation which can also lead to other skin complications. These alcohols should never be used alone on your skin, but combined with other cosmetic ingredients, they are normally without issue. However, for some people with sensitive and easily irritable skin, avoiding products with these simple alcohols may be beneficial. If you find your skin doesn't like these simple alcohols, then free feel to avoid them by looking out for the Alcohol-Free icon.
Which Ingredients are classified as Alcohol?
A product will be alcohol-free if it does not contain any of the following alcohol ingredients:
- SD Alcohol
- Alcohol Denat
- Isopropyl Alcohol
- Alcohol
Silicone-Free
Silicone-Free
Understanding Silicones
If you've ever used a skincare, makeup or beauty product that's made your skin look and feel smoother tempoarily - it's likely contained Silicone. They are a popular class of ingredients found in cosmetics due to their smooth, soft, easy-to-spread and smooth properties that help creates an artificial layer/barrier on top of skin or hair (commonly found in conditioners).
For the same reasons they are popularly used, they are also commonly avoided. Anecdotally, many individuals have reported that Silicones cause/excerbate breakouts, irritation, cause a feeling of skin being unable to breathe, cause clumping of cosmetic products and find it difficult to wash off. As a result, those who find them problematic are avoiding them and increasingly, cosmetic companies are avoiding them as well.
If you have had bad experiences with Silicones in the past, or suspect they are problematic then look out for the tick on the Silicone-free label.
Disclaimer
The Silicone-free label only includes the most common Silicone ingredients that have indentified been reported by individuals that could potentially cause issues.
These include: Amodimethicone, Behenoxy Dimethicone, Bis-Aminopropyl Dimethicone, Cetearyl Methicone, Cetyl Dimethicone, Cyclomethicone, Cyclopentasiloxane, Dimethicone, Dimethicone Copolyol, Dimethiconol, Methicone, Phenyl Trimethicone, Phenyl Trimethicone, Stearoxy Dimethicone, Stearyl Dimethicone, Trimethylsilylamodimethicone.
Note, that this does not include all ingredients part of the Silicone class of ingredients.
EU Allergen-Free
EU Allergen-Free
Understanding the Identified Contact Allergens
The EU's Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety (SCCS) has identified and established 26 cosmetic ingredients that are likely contact allergens (potential to cause skin allergies) as demonstrated in clinical or epidemiological studies. The EU's SCCS have recommend cosmetic companies to disclose them on the labels if used and in cases where the concentration exceeds 0.001% in leave-on products and 0.01% in rinse-off products, then they must be labelled.
Look out for the tick on the EU-Allergen free label to know your cosmetic is free from any of the 26 identified cosmetic ingredients.
For more information regarding the EU's Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety, please visit their official website.
Disclaimer
The EU Allergen Free label is for the 26 ingredients identified by the EU SCCS and products will be only flagged if a suspected ingredient is on it's ingredient list. It is possible for cosmetics to contain one of the suspect ingredients without it appearing on the ingredient list due to it not reaching the concentration threshold to disclose it and cosmetic manufacturers choice to not disclose it.
Also note, the EU Allergen Free label is not personalized for your own allergies you may have and it does not constitute as medical advice. For your specific case, always consult your medical professiona such as dermatologist, physician, pharmacist, or health care provider - please read our medical disclaimer for more information.
Fungal Acne (Molassezia) Safe
Fungal Acne (Molassezia) Safe
Understanding Fungal Acne (Pityrosporum Folliculitis/Malassezia Folliculitis)
Pityrosporum Folliculitis/Malassezia folliculitis or simply known as Fungal Acne is a persistent acne-like condition that commonly responds poorly to traditional acne-treating methods. Unlike most cases of Acne where bacteria is the culprit, Fungi is the culprit of Fungal Acne (Hence the name!). There are certain classes & groups of ingredients that have been shown to promote and feed the growth of the Fungal Acne, Fungi such as fatty acids, oils, esters, polysorbates and fermented ingredients.
For more information regarding Fungal Acne, please visit Simple Skincare Science (f.c) - #3 of our Recommend Skincare Resources for an amazing comprehensive guide!
Please Read: How to use the Fungal Acne (Malassezia) Label
At SkinCarisma, we've done our best to identify as many ingredients as possible but note the fungal-free label may not be 100% accurate due to the complexconditions and combination of ingredients that malezzeria can thrive on.
Additionally, products that may contain ingredients that have shown to feed Malassezia may not neccessarily exacerbate the condition due to concentration of ingredient used in the product, this information is simply not available on the products.
As a result, please note this is only an experimental label that can be best used to possible identify problematic products you have used in the past. It is in no way a perfect identifier nor a predictor in whether or not it will exacerbate or cause fungal acne. It will continue to be worked on as more information and research comes to light.
If you find any ingredients you believe should be included, please email us at snails@skincarisma.com.
Disclaimer
Due to the lack of substantial research into this area it is very likely there are other ingredients and class/groups of ingredients that could feed Fungal Acne which have not been indentified.
The Fungal-Safe label does not constitute as medical advice. For your specific case, always consult your medical professiona such as dermatologist, physician, pharmacist, or health care provider - please read our medical disclaimer for more information.
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.
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
Notable Effects & Ingredients
What are Ingredients Related to Skin Type?
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.
Pro Tip Alert!
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!
Ingredients Related to Skin Types
Dry Skin
Oily/Acne-Prone Skin
Sensitive Skin
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.
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.