Shoppers Say This $6 Under-Eye Brightener Makes Them Look "15 Years Younger"

Sometimes, concealer simply isn’t enough. Today, for instance, my weary eyes required under-eye coverup — plus redness-relieving eye drops and a quick slick of beige eyeliner in my waterline. As someone whose sleep quality rivals that of a new parent, I’m well-acquainted with makeup made to give the illusion of a full night’s sleep. That said, it wasn’t until recently that I stumbled upon an under-eye brightener that seems to be sorely missing from my arsenal: the Instant Awake Under-Eye Brightener from European drugstore brand Catrice. The product boasts glowing reviews at Amazon, where no fewer than 30,000 people have snapped it up in the past month alone, per the retailer. Best of all, it’s a mere $6.

The Catrice Instant Awake Under-Eye Brightener is a creamy, illuminating base that gives sleepy, shadowy under-eyes the illusion of a full night’s rest. The formula, which offers light-to-medium coverage, functions as a supercharger for traditional concealer, a color-corrector for blue or purple-based under-eye circles, and, in many cases, can completely replace concealer — particularly on minimal-makeup days. Housed in a small pot, the semi-solid formula glides easily onto skin using either a brush or the fingertips.

Available in two shades, including a peachy pink and a sandy beige — which suit light to medium skin tones and tan to deep skin tones, respectively — the pigment is color-adapting, per the brand, and melts into skin seamlessly for a fresh-faced, no makeup-makeup look. Furthermore, each shade neutralizes common undertones responsible for dark circles, including blues and purples.  

In addition to its tone-correcting capabilities, the under-eye brightener offers skincare benefits specifically suited for the under-eye area. For one, the formula contains hydrating hyaluronic acid; a humectant that floods skin with plumping hydration —  and, in turn, smooths the appearance of fine lines under and around the eyes, which can be exacerbated by dehydration. Shea butter is also present, and responsible for the formula’s rich, emollient texture. Furthermore, the ingredient, which is rich in antioxidant vitamin E, softens skin on contact, thereby creating a smooth base for concealer.

Shoppers are in awe of the product’s brightening benefit; in fact, many reviewers are swapping traditional under eye coverup for the silky, color-correcting cream.

For instance, one fan said it “replaces concealer” in light of its brightening coverage. Another shopper said they “instantly [look] 15 years younger” post-application, and, according to another 56-year-old shopper, the formula delivers “quick,” moisturizing coverage that hides “purple bags.” It “makes a world of difference,” the shopper added, noting that it’s an “excellent product for… lounging,” as it delivers “a very natural glow.” Finally, a mom in their 40s noted that it’s a breeze to apply, citing its “blendable” formula and how it delivers a “brightening effect with minimal effort.”

For an under eye-enhancing, creamy color-corrector that bolsters the brightening effects of concealer — and may even replace traditional cover up entirely — shop the Catrice Under Eye Brightener for $6.