Moisturizing Creams

Olay, Clinique products rated best

If you're just looking for a basic moisturizer, which experts say that everyone needs in the eye area, there really is no need to purchase an eye cream. As discussed earlier in this report, many of them contain the same ingredients as facial moisturizers.

For example, Olay Regenerist Eye Lifting Serum (*Est. $18 for 0.5 ounces) is well liked by reviewers as an excellent eye cream that feels light and smooth on the skin. It is also loaded with antioxidants. Paula Begoun mentions, though, that it differs little from Olay's Regenerist Daily Regenerating Serum, Fragrance Free (*Est. $20 for 1.7 ounces) , "which provides three times as much product for the same price." A quick look at the ingredients list does indeed show that they are almost identical.

Reviewers rave that this Olay formula is packed with peptides and has a soothing "gel-like" texture. Users are also well pleased with both formulations, although the eye serum receives slightly lower ratings. This is most likely due to the higher expectations that consumers generally have for eye creams.

Users also seem to be pleased with Clinique Continuous Rescue Antioxidant Moisturizer (*Est. $60 for 1.7 ounces) . It is another well-formulated facial moisturizer that can be used in lieu of an eye cream. Both Paula Begoun and Brides Magazine chose it as one of the best products of 2007 because it is rich in antioxidants and "elegantly textured."

For more on the best all-over moisturizers, see our companion report on facial moisturizers.