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Fundamental Nourishing Eye Butter

Fundamental Nourishing Eye Butter

Product Description

A lightweight, butter-like eye cream from Dear, Klairs powered by a Quad Peptide Blend (Acetyl Hexapeptide-8, Copper Tripeptide-1, Oligopeptide-29 & -32), caffeine, and an Oriental Tea Complex. It melts into delicate eye-area skin to soften fine lines, de-puff, and deeply hydrate without fragrance, essential oils, or a greasy finish.

๐Ÿ‡ฐ๐Ÿ‡ท K-Beauty ยท Made in South Korea
โœ” Vegan โœ” Cruelty-Free โœ” Reef Safe โœ” Fragrance-Free โœ” Quad Peptide Blend โœ” Sensitive-Skin Tested โœ” Milia-Friendly
Pregnancy Safe
Yes โœ”
Fungal Acne Safe
No โœ—
Comedogenic Rating
2/5
๐Ÿท๏ธ
Brand
Dear, Klairs
๐Ÿ“
Size
20g / 0.70oz
๐Ÿงช
Type
Eye Cream
๐ŸŒฟ
Hero Active
Quad Peptides
๐Ÿงด
Ingredients
37 INCI

โœจ Texture & Feel

๐Ÿ’ง
Consistency
Light butter-cream
๐Ÿ‘ƒ
Scent
Fragrance-free
โฑ๏ธ
Absorption
Fast, ~30 seconds
๐ŸŽฏ
Finish
Soft, non-greasy
๐Ÿงฌ

Quad Peptide Blend

Four targeted peptides work together to support firmness and visibly soften fine lines around the eyes.

โ˜•

Caffeine De-Puff

Caffeine helps brighten tired-looking eyes and reduce the look of morning puffiness.

๐ŸŒป

Sunflower + Vitamin E

Sunflower seed oil rich in vitamin E protects and nourishes thin, delicate periorbital skin.

๐Ÿƒ

Gentle & Clean

No fragrance, essential oils, silicones, or alcohol. Passed sensitive-skin irritation testing.

๐Ÿ›ก๏ธ Safety & Compatibility

โœ…
Pregnancy & Breastfeeding

Contains no retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, or chemical sunscreens. Peptides and topical caffeine are generally considered low-risk, but always confirm with your doctor.

โš ๏ธ
Fungal Acne (Malassezia)

Not fungal-acne safe. Contains fatty acids and plant oils (stearic, oleic, palmitic, arachidic acids, sunflower oil) that can feed Malassezia.

๐ŸŒธ
Sensitive Skin

Fragrance-free, essential-oil-free formula that completed Primary Skin Irritation Testing for sensitive skin.

๐Ÿ”„
Active Compatibility

Layers well with most routines. Apply before stronger eye actives (like retinol) on alternating nights to minimize sensitivity.

๐Ÿ”ฌ Ingredient Breakdown

๐Ÿงฌ Quad Peptide Blend ~0.1โ€“0.5% each Promising

A combination of Acetyl Hexapeptide-8 (Argireline), Copper Tripeptide-1 (GHK-Cu), Oligopeptide-29 and Oligopeptide-32. Together they target the appearance of fine lines and support skin firmness in the delicate eye area.

  • Argireline: May relax micro-movements that contribute to expression lines and support collagen.
  • Copper Tripeptide-1: A 1998 exploratory study reported increased procollagen in 7 of 10 users after one month.
  • Concentration: Independent analysis estimates each peptide at roughly 0.10%โ€“0.50%.
โœ…
Peptides are well-tolerated and a gentle alternative to retinol for early anti-aging around the eyes.

โ˜• Caffeine Listed high (7th) Promising

An antioxidant that helps calm inflammation and is widely used to address the look of puffiness and dark circles by temporarily constricting and stimulating blood vessels.

  • Function: Antioxidant and soothing agent; may help reduce visible puffiness.
  • Note: Benefits for dark circles are promising but still need stronger clinical proof.

๐ŸŒป Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed Oil 5th on INCI Proven

A non-fragrant emollient rich in linoleic acid and vitamin E. It softens skin and supports the barrier by encouraging ceramide production, helping the eye area look smoother and rejuvenated.

  • Fatty acids: Linoleic, palmitic, stearic, oleic, and arachidic acids support barrier repair.
  • Vitamin E: Provides antioxidant protection for thin periorbital skin.
โš ๏ธ
Plant oils and fatty acids make this formula unsuitable for those managing fungal acne.

๐Ÿ’ง Sodium Hyaluronate Mid INCI Proven

The salt form of hyaluronic acid and a powerful humectant. It binds water to the skin, helping the under-eye area look plump, smooth, and hydrated.

  • Humectant: Draws and holds moisture to reduce the look of dryness-related fine lines.
  • Supporting cast: Works alongside glycerin, betaine, panthenol, and pantolactone for layered hydration.

๐Ÿƒ Oriental Tea Complex (Green Tea & Botanicals) Blend Promising

A blend of Camellia Sinensis (green tea), turmeric root, persimmon leaf, neem, holy basil, and red bean extracts delivering antioxidants and soothing polyphenols to the eye area.

  • Green tea: Polyphenols neutralize free radicals and help calm visible irritation.
  • Turmeric & persimmon: Anti-inflammatory antioxidants that support a brighter, more even look.

37 ingredients

Water, Glycerin, Stearic Acid, 1,2-Hexanediol, Helianthus Annuus Seed Oil, Betaine, Caffeine, Phaseolus Angularis Seed Extract, Artemisia Princeps Leaf Extract, Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract, Chaenomeles Sinensis Fruit Extract, Chrysanthellum Indicum Extract, Cinnamomum Cassia Bark Extract, Corallina Officinalis Extract, Curcuma Longa Root Extract, Diospyros Kaki Leaf Extract, Melia Azadirachta Flower Extract, Melia Azadirachta Leaf Extract, Ocimum Sanctum Leaf Extract, Acetyl Hexapeptide-8, Copper Tripeptide-1, Oligopeptide-29, Oligopeptide-32, Panthenol, Pantolactone, Hydrogenated Lecithin, Hydroxyethyl Acrylate/Sodium Acryloyldimethyl Taurate Copolymer, Sodium Hyaluronate, Glyceryl Stearate, Sorbitan Isostearate, Cetearyl Alcohol, Propanediol, Arachidic Acid, Oleic Acid, Palmitic Acid, Caprylyl/Capryl Glucoside, Ethylhexylglycerin

FREE FROM: Artificial fragrance, artificial color, essential oils, parabens, alcohol (harsh/drying), mineral oil, silicones, sulfates, and common allergens.

๐Ÿ”„ Where It Fits in Your Routine

1
Cleanser
2
Toner
3
Serum
4
Eye Butter
5
Moisturizer
6
Sunscreen (AM)

Apply at the eye-cream step, after toner/serum and before your face moisturizer. Suitable for both morning and evening routines.

๐Ÿ“ How to Use

1

Dispense a small amount

Squeeze a rice-grain-sized amount onto your ring finger โ€” a little goes a long way.

2

Split between fingers

Gently tap half onto the opposite ring finger so the product is evenly divided for both eyes.

3

Pat, don't rub

Lightly pat around the orbital bone and under-eye area. The ring finger applies the gentlest pressure.

4

Follow with moisturizer

Let it absorb for a few seconds, then continue with your face moisturizer and (in the morning) sunscreen.

๐Ÿ‘ค Who Is It For?

โœ… Perfect for you if:

  • You want a gentle, fragrance-free anti-aging eye treatment
  • You have sensitive skin or reactive eyes
  • You're targeting early fine lines, puffiness, or dryness
  • You're prone to milia and need a non-clogging eye cream
  • You prefer a lightweight, fast-absorbing texture under makeup

โŒ Consider alternatives if:

  • You are managing fungal acne (Malassezia)
  • You have very dry under-eyes needing a rich, occlusive cream
  • You want to treat deep, established wrinkles
  • You specifically want retinol-strength results
  • You dislike any oil-based emollients in eye products

๐ŸŽฏ Skin Type Compatibility

Oily Skin โ˜…โ˜…โ˜…โ˜…โ˜… Excellent

Lightweight, butter-like texture absorbs without leaving a greasy under-eye finish.

Dry Skin โ˜…โ˜…โ˜…โ˜…โ˜† Good

Hydrates well for normal-to-dry eyes, but very dry skin may want a richer cream layered on top.

Combination โ˜…โ˜…โ˜…โ˜…โ˜… Excellent

Balances hydration without heaviness, making it easy to wear day or night.

Sensitive โ˜…โ˜…โ˜…โ˜…โ˜… Excellent

Fragrance-free and sensitive-skin tested; reviewers report no stinging or burning near the eyes.

Acne-Prone โ˜…โ˜…โ˜…โ˜…โ˜† Good

Milia-friendly and low comedogenic risk, but not suitable for those with fungal acne concerns.

๐Ÿ“ˆ Results Timeline

Immediately

Hydrated, smoother under-eyes

The butter texture melts in and leaves the eye area feeling soft and comfortable, helping concealer sit better.

82% noticed
1โ€“2 Weeks

Less puffiness, calmer look

Caffeine and soothing tea extracts help tired, puffy eyes appear more awake and refreshed in the mornings.

68% noticed
4โ€“8 Weeks

Softer fine lines

With consistent use, the peptide blend helps dryness-related fine lines look visibly less pronounced.

57% noticed
3+ Months

Maintained barrier & bounce

Ongoing nourishment supports a healthier-looking, more resilient eye area over time.

49% noticed

โญ Ratings by Platform

๐ŸŒฟ iHerb
โ˜…โ˜…โ˜…โ˜… 4.4
Rating
200+
Reviews
โš ๏ธ Main complaint: Not rich enough for very dry under-eyes
๐ŸŒธ YesStyle
โ˜…โ˜…โ˜…โ˜…โ˜… 4.7
Rating
150+
Reviews
โš ๏ธ Main complaint: Small 20g size finishes quickly for some
๐Ÿ  Soko Glam
โ˜…โ˜…โ˜…โ˜… 4.3
Rating
90+
Reviews
โš ๏ธ Main complaint: Texture more liquid than "butter" name suggests
๐Ÿ›’ Amazon
โ˜…โ˜…โ˜…โ˜… 4.4
Rating
500+
Reviews
โš ๏ธ Main complaint: Subtle results that need patience and consistency

โš–๏ธ Pros & Cons

โœ… Praised

  • Completely fragrance-free and gentle on sensitive eyes
  • Lightweight, buttery texture absorbs fast without stinging
  • Doesn't cause milia and sits well under concealer
  • Thoughtful four-peptide + caffeine + antioxidant formula
  • Vegan, cruelty-free, and reasonably priced for K-beauty

โŒ Criticized

  • Not rich enough for very dry under-eye areas
  • Results are subtle and require consistent, long-term use
  • Texture is more lightweight than the "butter" name implies
  • Not suitable for those managing fungal acne
  • 20g size can run out fast for daily face-and-eye users

๐Ÿ’ฐ Budget-Friendly Alternatives (Dupes)

75% Match
The INKEY List Caffeine Eye Cream
$9.99 Budget Pick

Pairs caffeine with peptides and hyaluronic acid for puffiness and hydration. Lighter on botanicals and fully fungal-acne friendly compared to Klairs.

70% Match
The Ordinary Caffeine Solution 5% + EGCG
$8.90 Budget Pick

A potent caffeine + green-tea serum that's fungal-acne safe and very affordable. Lacks the peptide blend and nourishing oils, so less moisturizing.

65% Match
Good Molecules Yerba Mate Wake Up Eye Gel
$10.00 Budget Pick

Caffeine-rich gel with peptides aimed at de-puffing tired eyes. Gel texture is lighter and less nourishing than Klairs' butter-cream.

๐Ÿ”„ Comparison with Competitors

COSRX Advanced Snail Peptide Eye Cream

$27.00
Key Actives Snail Mucin + Peptides + Niacinamide
Size 25ml
Fragrance Fragrance-free
Pregnancy Safe Yes
Fungal Acne Safe No

Beauty of Joseon Revive Eye Serum: Ginseng + Retinal

$17.00
Key Actives Retinal + Ginseng + Niacinamide
Size 30ml
Fragrance Fragrance-free
Pregnancy Safe No (retinal)
Fungal Acne Safe No

The Ordinary Caffeine Solution 5% + EGCG

$8.90
Key Actives Caffeine 5% + EGCG
Size 30ml
Fragrance Fragrance-free
Pregnancy Safe Yes
Fungal Acne Safe Yes

๐Ÿ“ฆ Storage & Shelf Life

๐Ÿ“…
Period After Opening (PAO)

12 months after opening

๐Ÿ 
Storage

Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight; close tightly after each use.

๐Ÿ“ฆ
Packaging

Compact tube with a narrow applicator tip for controlled, hygienic dispensing.

โœˆ๏ธ
Travel Friendly

Yes โ€” 20g size is well under 100ml and carry-on compliant.

โ“ Frequently Asked Questions

It contains no retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, or chemical sunscreen filters. Its peptides, caffeine, and botanical extracts are generally considered low-risk during pregnancy and breastfeeding. As with any product, we recommend confirming with your OB-GYN or dermatologist before use.

No. It contains fatty acids and plant oils โ€” including stearic, oleic, palmitic, and arachidic acids plus sunflower seed oil, glyceryl stearate, and sorbitan isostearate โ€” that can feed Malassezia yeast. If you're actively managing fungal acne, choose a fatty-acid-free alternative.

Yes. Peptides, caffeine, and antioxidants layer well with most actives. If you use a separate retinol or acid eye product, apply this butter on alternating nights or as a buffering moisturizer afterward to reduce the chance of irritation in the delicate eye area.

It suits all skin types and performs especially well for sensitive, combination, and oily skin thanks to its lightweight, fragrance-free formula. Very dry under-eyes may want a richer cream layered on top, and it's also a good option for those prone to milia.

Hydration and a smoother surface are usually noticeable right away. De-puffing benefits tend to show within 1โ€“2 weeks, while softer-looking fine lines from the peptide blend typically appear after about 4โ€“8 weeks of consistent twice-daily use.

Use it at the eye-cream step โ€” after cleansing, toner, and any serums, and before your face moisturizer. In the morning, always finish with sunscreen. It can be used both morning and night.

Its comedogenic risk is low (around 2/5). Klairs specifically formulated it to be suitable for those prone to milia, and reviewers consistently report it doesn't cause clogged bumps around the eyes. It does, however, contain oils, so very breakout-prone users should patch test.

The Period After Opening (PAO) is 12 months. Store it in a cool, dry place and keep the tip clean. With typical use, the 20g size lasts roughly 3โ€“4 months.

โ˜…โ˜…โ˜…โ˜…โ˜†
4.4 out of 5

Verdict: The Dear, Klairs Fundamental Nourishing Eye Butter is one of the gentlest peptide eye creams in K-beauty. Its Quad Peptide Blend, caffeine, and antioxidant tea complex deliver meaningful hydration and de-puffing in a completely fragrance-free, milia-friendly formula that sensitive eyes love. Results are subtle and reward consistency rather than offering dramatic overnight change, and the fatty-acid content rules it out for fungal-acne sufferers. But for anyone seeking a clean, well-priced, anti-aging eye treatment that won't sting or clog, it's an easy, reliable recommendation.

Product Overview

question
lightbulb 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.

muscle 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.

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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 ยซpromisesยป 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):
Caffeine Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract Acetyl Hexapeptide-8 Copper Tripeptide-1
brightening Brightening from 1 ingredient(s):
Glycerin
wound Promotes Wound Healing from 4 ingredient(s):
Glycerin Copper Tripeptide-1 Panthenol Sodium Hyaluronate
question
lightbulb 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.

muscle 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!

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Ingredients Related to Skin Types

Click on icons for more information
dry-skin Dry Skin
3
oily-skin Oily/Acne-Prone Skin
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
56% 43%

Product ingredient list

Showing first 5 of 37 ingredients
EWG CIR Ingredient Name & Cosmetic Functions Notes
1 Unknown
Water
Solvent, Skin Conditioning
2 A
Glycerin
Solvent, Perfuming, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Decreasing Agent, Hair Conditioning, Skin Protecting, Denaturant, Skin Conditioning
brightening Brightening
Promotes Wound Healing
Hydrating
1 A
Stearic Acid
Masking, Fragrance, Emulsion Stabilising, Emulsifying, Sufactant, Refatting, Cleansing
1 A
1,2-Hexanediol
Solvent, Skin Conditioning
Hydrating
0 Unknown
Helianthus Annuus Seed Oil
Emollient, Masking, Skin Conditioning
Hydrating
VIEW ALL INGREDIENTS