Midnight Recovery Eye
Midnight Recovery Eye
Product Description
A restorative nighttime eye cream infused with Butcher's Broom Extract, Lavender Essential Oil, and Evening Primrose Oil to help diminish dark circles, reduce puffiness, and strengthen the delicate eye area for younger-looking, well-rested eyes by morning.
β¨ Texture & Feel
Reduces Under-Eye Puffiness
Butcher's Broom Extract improves microcirculation and helps diminish the appearance of eye bags and puffiness.
Calming Aromatherapy
Steam-distilled Lavender Essential Oil soothes and relaxes the senses, preparing you for restorative sleep.
Deep Hydration
Evening Primrose Oil and Squalane help maintain skin elasticity and restore the moisture barrier overnight.
Brightens Dark Circles
Botanical oils and antioxidants work overnight to diminish the appearance of dark under-eye circles.
π‘οΈ Safety & Compatibility
Contains Lavender Essential Oil and other essential oils. Some healthcare providers recommend avoiding essential oils during pregnancy. Consult your physician before use.
Not recommended. Contains multiple oils (Sunflower, Jojoba, Evening Primrose, Soybean) and fatty acids that may feed malassezia yeast.
Claimed non-comedogenic by Kiehl's. Contains oils but formulated to not clog pores. Patch test recommended for acne-prone skin.
Contains fragrance components (Linalool, Citronellol, Geraniol, Limonene) and denatured alcohol. May cause irritation in very sensitive individuals.
Clinically tested for safety around the delicate eye area. Suitable for contact lens wearers.
Can be used alongside retinol products. Apply after retinol serums for added nourishment. No conflicting active ingredients.
π¬ Ingredient Breakdown
πΏ Butcher's Broom Extract (Ruscus Aculeatus) Proven
An ancient apothecary ingredient known for improving microcirculation. Helps reduce under-eye puffiness by stimulating blood flow and reducing fluid retention in the delicate eye area.
- Mechanism: Contains ruscogenins that help strengthen blood vessel walls and improve venous tone
- Clinical Use: Traditionally used for centuries in European herbal medicine for circulation
π Lavender Essential Oil Proven
Steam-distilled from Lavandula Angustifolia, this aromatic oil is known for its calming and soothing properties. Helps relax the senses in preparation for sleep while providing antioxidant benefits.
- Benefits: Antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, promotes relaxation and better sleep
- Aromatherapy: Signature calming scent enhances the nighttime skincare ritual
πΈ Evening Primrose Oil Proven
Extracted from the seeds of Oenothera Biennis, this omega-6 rich oil contains 60-85% linoleic acid and gamma-linolenic acid (GLA). Helps maintain skin hydration and elasticity.
- Fatty Acids: Rich in linoleic acid (helps repair skin barrier) and GLA (anti-inflammatory)
- Research: Studies show improvement in atopic dermatitis, dry eyes, and overall skin hydration
π§ Squalane Top 5 Proven
A botanical lipid that closely resembles natural skin lipids. Non-irritating even at 100% concentration, squalane restores the skin's moisture balance and keeps the delicate eye area soft and supple.
- Biocompatibility: Structurally similar to human sebum for easy absorption
- Function: Occlusive moisturizer that prevents transepidermal water loss (TEWL)
π§ Shea Butter Proven
Rich in triglycerides and fatty acids, Shea Butter replenishes the skin's natural barrier function. Melts at body temperature to form an occlusive film that locks in moisture.
- Emollient: Softens and soothes the delicate under-eye skin
- Barrier: Helps prevent moisture evaporation overnight
βοΈ Adenosine Promising
A naturally occurring compound with anti-aging properties. Helps smooth fine lines and wrinkles by stimulating collagen production and reducing signs of fatigue.
- Anti-Aging: Promotes skin cell energy and renewal
- Soothing: Calms inflammation and helps repair damaged skin
37 ingredients
Aqua/Water, Helianthus Annuus Seed Oil/Sunflower Seed Oil, Simmondsia Chinensis Seed Oil/Jojoba Seed Oil, Prunus Armeniaca Kernel Oil/Apricot Kernel Oil, Squalane, Alcohol Denat., Cetearyl Alcohol, Glyceryl Stearate, Stearyl Alcohol, Cetearyl Glucoside, Oenothera Biennis Oil/Evening Primrose Oil, Butyrospermum Parkii Butter/Shea Butter, Phenoxyethanol, Lithium Magnesium Sodium Silicate, Chlorphenesin, Xanthan Gum, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice Powder, Tocopherol, Ruscus Aculeatus Root Extract, Lavandula Angustifolia Oil/Lavender Oil, Adenosine, Linalool, Rosmarinus Officinalis Leaf Oil/Rosemary Leaf Oil, Pelargonium Graveolens Flower Oil, Hydrolyzed Corn Starch, Glycine Soja Oil/Soybean Oil, Citronellol, Geraniol, Lavandula Hybrida Oil, Cucumis Sativus Fruit Extract/Cucumber Fruit Extract, Limonene, Silica, Citral, Curcuma Longa Root Extract/Turmeric Root Extract, Sclareolide, Rose Flower Oil, Jasminum Officinale Flower/Leaf Extract
π Where It Fits in Your Routine
Apply after serums and before moisturizer. Best used at night when skin is in repair mode. Pairs perfectly with Kiehl's Midnight Recovery Concentrate.
π How to Use
Cleanse & Prep
Start with clean, dry skin. Complete your cleansing and toning routine before application.
Dispense Product
Squeeze 1-2 drops (pea-sized amount) of eye cream onto your ring finger. A little goes a long way.
Gentle Application
Gently pat and press the cream under the eyes and along the orbital bone. Avoid pulling or tugging the delicate skin.
Massage In
Use light tapping motions to help the product absorb. The massaging action helps reduce puffiness and improves circulation.
π€ Who Is It For?
β Perfect for you if:
- You wake up with puffy, tired-looking eyes
- You have dark circles from lack of sleep or stress
- You want a nourishing, oil-rich nighttime eye treatment
- You enjoy aromatherapy and calming lavender scent
- You have normal, dry, or combination skin
- You're looking for botanical-based skincare
- You want to prevent early signs of aging around eyes
β Consider alternatives if:
- You have fungal acne (malassezia) concerns
- You are pregnant or breastfeeding (consult doctor first)
- You have very sensitive or reactive skin
- You dislike lavender or floral scents
- You prefer fragrance-free eye products
- You have oily eyelids that get greasy easily
- You need a daytime eye cream (this is quite rich)
π― Skin Type Compatibility
Rich, nourishing formula with multiple oils and shea butter provides intense overnight hydration for parched under-eyes.
Perfect balance of hydration and nourishment. Absorbs well and delivers visible results without being too heavy.
Works well for the typically dry under-eye area. Use sparingly to avoid excess oil on eyelids.
May feel too rich for very oily skin types. Best used sparingly at night only. Consider a lighter gel formula for daytime.
Contains essential oils and fragrance components. Patch test recommended. Some users report eye irritation.
Non-comedogenic claim but contains multiple oils. Not fungal acne safe. Use with caution if prone to milia.
π Results Timeline
Immediate Hydration & Comfort
Skin feels softer and more nourished. The lavender scent helps you relax before sleep. Some notice reduced morning puffiness.
85% noticed softer skinVisible Puffiness Reduction
Continued use shows noticeable improvement in under-eye puffiness. Dark circles may start to appear lighter. Eye area looks more rested.
70% noticed reduced puffinessImproved Skin Texture
Fine lines appear smoother. Under-eye area looks firmer and more youthful. Concealer applies more smoothly over treated skin.
60% noticed smoother textureCumulative Anti-Aging Benefits
With consistent nightly use, the eye area appears more resilient. Early signs of aging are visibly diminished. Best results with long-term commitment.
55% saw anti-aging improvementβ Ratings by Platform
βοΈ Pros & Cons
β Praised
- Effective at reducing morning puffiness
- Luxurious, nourishing texture
- Calming lavender aromatherapy experience
- Paraben-free and dermatologist tested
- A little product goes a long way
- Helps concealer apply more smoothly
- From trusted heritage brand (since 1851)
- Award-winning formula (Allure Best of Beauty)
β Criticized
- Small size for premium price ($37/15ml)
- Lavender scent too strong for some
- Not fungal acne safe
- Contains fragrance components that may irritate
- May cause eye irritation in sensitive users
- Results on fine lines are mixed
- Too rich for oily skin types
- Not suitable for pregnancy without consultation
π° Budget-Friendly Alternatives (Dupes)
Lightweight serum targeting puffiness and dark circles with 5% caffeine and green tea antioxidants. Different texture (water-based vs oil-based) but similar depuffing goals. Best for oily skin.
Ceramide-rich formula with hyaluronic acid and niacinamide. Focuses on barrier repair and hydration. Fragrance-free and gentler for sensitive skin. Less luxurious texture.
Plant-based formula with similar botanical philosophy. Contains organic ingredients but different key actives. Good option for those wanting natural skincare on a budget.
Closest ingredient match with similar botanical oils approach. More expensive but shares the luxury spa-like experience. Good upgrade option if Kiehl's isn't working for you.
π Comparison with Competitors
Kiehl's Midnight Recovery Eye (This Product)
$37EstΓ©e Lauder Advanced Night Repair Eye
$72Kiehl's Creamy Eye Treatment with Avocado
$48La Mer The Eye Concentrate
$225π¦ Storage & Shelf Life
12 months after opening
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Keep at room temperature (15-25Β°C/59-77Β°F).
Hygienic squeeze tube with precision tip for controlled dispensing. Prevents contamination and oxidation.
Yes - 15ml/0.5 fl oz is well under the 100ml TSA liquid limit. Compact tube fits easily in travel bags.
β Frequently Asked Questions
Use with caution. This product contains Lavender Essential Oil, Rosemary Oil, Geranium Oil, and other essential oils. While Kiehl's ensures all ingredients are evaluated for safety, they do not specifically test products on pregnant or nursing women. Some healthcare providers recommend avoiding essential oils during pregnancy. We strongly recommend consulting with your physician before use during pregnancy or breastfeeding.
No, this product is NOT fungal acne safe. It contains multiple ingredients that can feed malassezia yeast, including Sunflower Seed Oil, Jojoba Oil, Evening Primrose Oil, Shea Butter, Soybean Oil, and various fatty alcohols. If you have fungal acne concerns, consider alternatives like The Ordinary Caffeine Solution or CeraVe Eye Repair Cream which have simpler formulas.
Yes, this eye cream can be used alongside most active ingredients. It contains no conflicting actives. When using retinol around eyes, apply the retinol first, let it absorb, then follow with Midnight Recovery Eye for added nourishment. For vitamin C, use the vitamin C product first in the morning, and save this eye cream for nighttime. The oils and squalane can actually help buffer potential irritation from actives.
This eye cream is best suited for normal to dry skin types. The rich, oil-based formula provides excellent nourishment for dehydrated under-eyes. Those with oily skin may find it too heavy for daily use - in that case, use sparingly or only 2-3 times per week. People with very sensitive skin should patch test first due to the essential oil content.
Most users notice improved hydration and softer skin within the first week. Reduction in puffiness typically becomes visible after 2-3 weeks of consistent nightly use. Improvement in dark circles and fine lines may take 4-8 weeks. For best results, use every night and pair with adequate sleep and hydration. Results vary based on individual skin concerns and lifestyle factors.
Apply after cleansing, toning, and serums, but before moisturizer and face oils. The typical order is: Cleanser β Toner β Serum β Eye Cream (this product) β Moisturizer β Face Oil (like Midnight Recovery Concentrate). For nighttime use, this is the perfect final treatment step for the eye area. Can also be used in the morning, but the rich texture may be too heavy under makeup for some.
Kiehl's claims this product is non-comedogenic (won't clog pores). Our assessment gives it a comedogenic rating of 2/5 (low risk). While it contains oils, the formula is designed not to clog pores around the eyes. However, if you're prone to milia (small white bumps) around the eyes, use sparingly and avoid applying too close to the lash line. Those with severe acne should patch test first.
The Period After Opening (PAO) is 12 months. The hygienic tube packaging helps prevent contamination and oxidation, extending the product's effectiveness. A 15ml tube typically lasts 3-4 months with nightly use (1-2 drops per application). Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. If the product changes color, texture, or smell before 12 months, discontinue use.
Verdict: Kiehl's Midnight Recovery Eye is a well-formulated, botanically-rich eye cream that excels at reducing puffiness and delivering overnight nourishment. The combination of Butcher's Broom Extract, Lavender Oil, and Evening Primrose Oil creates a luxurious nighttime ritual that leaves eyes looking refreshed. However, it's not for everyone - the essential oil content makes it unsuitable for pregnancy without medical advice, and it's definitely not fungal acne safe. Those with sensitive skin should patch test due to fragrance components. At $37 for 15ml, it's mid-range in the prestige eye cream market. Best suited for those with normal to dry skin who appreciate aromatherapy and want an effective anti-puffiness treatment. For a heritage brand with 170+ years of apothecary expertise, this Allure Best of Beauty winner delivers on its promises for the right user.
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 skinβs 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 Β«promisesΒ» 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
Anti-Aging from 2 ingredient(s):
Brightening from 1 ingredient(s):
Promotes Wound Healing from 4 ingredient(s):
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.
Ingredient Safety Breakdown
Product ingredient list
| EWG | CIR | Ingredient Name & Cosmetic Functions | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 |
Water
Solvent, Skin Conditioning
|
|
|
| 0 |
Helianthus Annuus Seed Oil
Emollient, Masking, Skin Conditioning
|
Hydrating
|
|
| 0 |
Simmondsia Chinensis Seed Oil
Emollient, Skin Conditioning
|
Promotes Wound Healing
Hydrating
|
|
| 0 |
Prunus Armeniaca Kernel Oil
Masking, Skin Conditioning
|
|
|
| 1 |
Squalane
Skin Conditioning, Emollient, Hair Conditioning, Refatting
|
Hydrating
|