Overview
Skinceuticals is a company with an established reputation in the cosmetic field. Founded in 1997, Skinceuticals has built a visible presence in the last 10 years because of its impressive collection of skincare formulas, many of which are created following a thorough process that includes plenty of scientific research. Like many such companies, Skinceuticals offers several products to combat aging near the eye, the most important of which is its unique Eye Cream formula. Because of this company’s solid track record, we decided to review this Eye Cream and see if it lived up to the company’s reputation.

Featured Ingredients
Skinceuticals Eye Cream was designed to reduce puffiness and combat dark circles under the eye. To accomplish this, the formulators included two ingredients that are not usually seen in product of this type. Centella Asiatica (also known as Gotu Kola) is an herb that is found in India and nearby Asian countries. As an oral supplement, taking this herb is believed to promote several areas of health. The Skinceuticals research team decided to include Centella Asiatica in the Eye Cream formula because the extract of this herb shows an affinity for the skin. Namely, it helps to improve blood flow to the eye area by strengthening the capillaries (miniature blood vessels) that feed the eye area, thus making pooling and clogging less likely.

Skinceuticals Eye Cream also contains Ections, which are tiny molecules produced by bacteria to protect themselves from the defense’s conjured by the body’s immune system. While the though of using an ingredient derived from bacteria may not seem appealing to many, the research on Ections - and their ability to promote wound healing - is impressive. Since puffiness and crow’s feet could be considered wounds of a specific type, it is conceivable that Ections could thus have a positive effect on the eye area. 

Web Site Description
The Skinceuticals web site is very attractive and assembled in a clean, straightforward style that suggests scientific emphasis. The descriptions of the products, including Eye Cream, are clear and easy to understand. The web site also contains full links to scientific abstracts on its ingredients, including Centella Asiatica and Ections. There are a few things missing, however. We did not find any customer testimonials, which are usually an indicator of how a company’s formulas work for real people (as opposed to a controlled laboratory environment). In addition, while the potential effects of Eye Cream are listed, we did not see any specific studies on the actual effects of the Eye Cream. Thus, a potential customer is expected to read the technical abstracts on the individual ingredients and make the assumption that they will notice an effect on dark circles, puffiness and crow’s feet. In addition, the company admits that the only way to obtain Skinceuticals products is through a physician or licensed skincare professional. Online ordering - or a free trial - is not available.

Positives
- Company has a solid reputation based on thorough scientific research- Initial studies on key ingredients are encouraging

 Negatives
- Products cannot be purchased online - available only through a doctor

- No free trial is available - No testimonials are posted on the web site

- It is unclear whether a study on the entire Eye Cream formula (in contrast to its individual ingredients) has ever been conducted

Conclusion
If you are looking for a single formula to combat dark circles, under eye puffiness and crow’s feet, we think that Skinceuticals Eye Cream may deliver as promised. While we would like to believe that the company’s claims are true, we cannot be 100% sure. Perhaps it is best for you to speak to a physician or skincare professional and ask their opinion about Skinceuticals Eye Cream first.