Retinol Under Eye Cream with Vitamin C & Hyaluronic Acid

What you need to know

This is a moisturizer with Retinol. A form of Vitamin A that increases cell turnover, stimulates collagen production, and reduces fine lines. The most evidence-backed anti-aging ingredient available without a prescription.

Who should use this: If your concern is fine lines, wrinkles, uneven texture, or acne, this ingredient addresses that directly. 0.025-0.3% for beginners, 0.3-0.5% for experienced users. Prescription retinoids (tretinoin) are stronger.

This is a moisturizer with Sodium Ascorbyl Phosphate (Vit C). An antioxidant (usually L-Ascorbic Acid) that neutralizes free radical damage from UV and pollution, brightens skin tone, and supports collagen synthesis.

Who should use this: If your concern is dull skin, hyperpigmentation, sun damage, or uneven tone, this ingredient addresses that directly. 10-20% for L-Ascorbic Acid. Below 8% may not be effective. Above 20% increases irritation without added benefit.

This is a moisturizer with Sodium Hyaluronate (Hyaluronic Acid). A humectant that holds up to 1000x its weight in water. Draws moisture from the environment into your skin. Found naturally in your skin but declines with age.

Who should use this: If your concern is dehydrated skin, dry skin, fine lines from dehydration, or all skin types, this ingredient addresses that directly. 0.1-2%. Low molecular weight penetrates deeper. High molecular weight sits on top and plumps. Most products use a mix.

Key ingredients

This under eye cream includes Retinol, a well-researched form of Vitamin A known for increasing cell turnover, stimulating collagen, and reducing fine lines. However, without a specified concentration, it's impossible to gauge its efficacy or potential for irritation. The formula also contains Sodium Ascorbyl Phosphate, a Vitamin C derivative, and Sodium Hyaluronate, a form of Hyaluronic Acid, both good for hydration and brightening. Licorice Extract and Cucumber Extract are included, likely for their soothing and brightening properties. Other notable ingredients include nourishing components like Avocado Oil and Rosehip Oil, along with humectants like Glycerin and Betaine, which contribute to the moisturizing feel. The presence of 'Parfum' is a minor concern for sensitive skin, especially in an eye product. While the ingredient list contains many 'goodies' according to INCIDecoder, the real issue lies in the formulation strategy for actives.

Who should use this

Individuals looking for a general hydrating eye cream with mild anti-aging benefits might consider this, especially if they are new to actives and prefer a 'one and done' product for the eye area. It could be suitable for those with early signs of aging or mild dryness around the eyes who are not sensitive to fragrance.

Who should skip this

Pregnant women must absolutely avoid this product due to the presence of Retinol. Those with sensitive skin, or individuals already using other retinoids or strong actives in their routine, should skip this to prevent over-exfoliation and irritation. Anyone seeking a potent, targeted treatment for significant fine lines or dark circles might find this too mild or too risky due to unknown active concentrations. If you have active irritation around the eyes, avoid this product.

How to use

Apply a pea-sized amount to the under eye area with your ring finger, gently patting until absorbed. Use only in the evening, after cleansing and any serums, but before your final moisturizer. As this contains retinol, it is crucial to use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30 every morning, even if you only apply the eye cream at night. Do not stack this with other active ingredients like AHAs, BHAs, or other retinoids, especially when starting.

What users say

There are no specific reviews for this product on the sskin.care platform. However, general sentiment found on Reddit regarding Pilgrim products suggests a mixed experience, with some users expressing dissatisfaction. One Reddit user noted, 'Pilgrim items suck. I bought four items from there red wine range. They suck. None of it works.' This indicates potential inconsistency in product performance across the brand's offerings.

Price context

At Rs450, this eye cream sits at an affordable price point for an active-containing product in the Indian market. Alternatives at this price often offer single actives or simpler hydrating formulas. However, the lack of transparency regarding retinol concentration makes it hard to compare its value to other retinol eye creams, which typically specify percentages. While it's cheaper than many Korean or Japanese counterparts, those often provide clearer ingredient information and more refined formulations.

Final take

This Pilgrim eye cream is a budget-friendly option, but its formulation is a bit of a 'shotgun approach' to skincare actives, lacking precision. While it offers a blend of beneficial ingredients, the undisclosed retinol concentration is a significant drawback for anyone serious about anti-aging. I would not recommend this product for anyone looking for a targeted, effective retinol treatment; instead, I'd suggest investing in a product with transparent active percentages for better results and less risk of irritation.

Same ingredient, different brands

Pilgrim is not the only brand selling a moisturizer with retinol. Here is what else exists at what price. Same active, different formulations. The choice comes down to texture, price, and what your skin prefers.