Make New York Post a Preferred Source New York Post Composite As a commerce reporter covering everything from buzzy beauty launches to celebrity-approved skincare, I’ve learned that sometimes the most exciting beauty discoveries come in the smallest packages.
I know a thing or two about under-eye patches, too. I flew to South Korea last year, got hands-on experience inside a Seoul skincare lab, and returned home with a carry-on packed to the brim with under-eye masks. So when I hear about a product promising a smoother, plumper-looking under-eye area without an appointment at a cosmetic dermatologist’s office, I’m paying attention.
My latest find? Anua’s Retinol Berry Revitalizing Eye Patches, which are on an early Black Friday deal at $24 and are already getting celebrity attention. “Real Housewives of New Jersey” star Melissa Gorga has also shown love for the K-beauty treatment, describing its effect as “filler in a jar” in a sponsored social media post. She even demonstrated using the patches beyond her under-eyes, placing them on her cheeks, lips, and décolletage.
Think of these as more than a quick fix for puffy, tired eyes: They combine retinol, caffeine and hydrating ingredients to help smooth fine lines, brighten, and temporarily plump the under-eye area. Basically, they’re aiming for that fresh-from-the-dermatologist look without the needles or the hefty appointment bill.
And the ingredient list gives me even more reason to take a closer look.
Anua’s formula combines retinol, niacinamide, caffeine, and antioxidant-rich berry extracts in a hydrogel patch designed to give the delicate eye area some serious skincare attention. Retinol is a longtime favorite for improving the appearance of fine lines and uneven texture, while niacinamide helps brighten the look of discoloration and support the skin barrier. Caffeine is another standout, thanks to its ability to temporarily reduce the appearance of morning puffiness.
The patches also feature what Anua calls Ultra Filling Spheres, designed to deliver an instant hydration boost that makes fine lines look less noticeable. That’s a welcome benefit when makeup settles into those tiny creases around my eyes and makes me look more tired than I actually feel.
Another detail I appreciate: These aren’t strictly under-eye treatments. Anua designed the multi-zone hydrogel patches to adhere to areas like smile lines, the forehead and neck, too. According to the brand, just 10 minutes of wear is enough for a targeted skincare treatment (they’re the best self-care find, let me tell you).
Of course, let’s be clear: No $24 skincare product can replicate the volume-restoring results of injectable filler. But if your biggest concerns are dehydration, temporary puffiness or fine lines that become more noticeable when your skin needs moisture, these patches could be a worthwhile addition to your routine.
I’d introduce them gradually, especially if you’re new to retinol, and follow with sunscreen during the day.
Between my Seoul skincare-lab experience, my overflowing collection of Korean eye masks and my ongoing search for products that actually earn their spot in my beauty cabinet, I’m always interested in a multitasking treatment. And with Melissa Gorga giving these patches her celebrity stamp of approval, Anua’s $24 find is one K-beauty discovery worth keeping on your radar.
If you want glowing, glass skin (and to lessen the appearance of pores), this overnight treatment from Medicube is the formula you need to try next.
After reviewing this Korean eye treatment, I was beyond impressed. It tightened, smoothed and brightened in one go.
Want to balance your skin? This essential serum is the answer, absorbing well and canceling out redness.
Retinol smooths fine lines, caffeine temporarily reduces puffiness and niacinamide strengthens the moisture barrier while brightening skin discoloration.
Wear patches for 15 to 20 minutes. Do not wear them overnight, as dry patches can draw moisture back out of the skin.
Beginners and sensitive skin types should patch-test and start two to three times per week. Daily use should only occur if tolerated without irritation.
No. Eye patches offer temporary hydration and de-puffing, but cannot permanently eliminate dark circles caused by genetics, aging or pigmentation.
Apply to clean, dry skin before applying heavy creams or oils. After removing, gently pat the remaining serum into skin without rinsing.
Yes. Chilling patches boosts their cooling sensation, which helps further diminish morning swelling and fluid retention around the eyes.
Items are backed by Amazon’s standard 30-day return policy. Single-use skincare consumables do not include extended manufacturer warranties unless explicitly stated.
This article was written by Victoria McDonnell, New York Post Commerce Journalist & Content Strategist, who has spent countless hours researching, testing hundreds of products and comparing the latest makeup, skincare, hair and beauty items and trends to determine what’s truly worth your hard-earned cash. She evaluates formulas, textures, ingredients and more, in addition to consulting medical and industry experts. Some of Victoria’s latest conquests include testing the best sheet masks on the market, and a rinse-and-repeat review of the best shampoos for all hair types and budgets. Victoria, who received a beauty industry essentials certification from the Fashion Institute of Technology, has been creating shopping guides for the New York Post since 2021 and previously held positions at Insider Reviews and CNN Underscored.
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