This eye cream went viral – but does it actually work?

If you’ve been anywhere near skincare TikTok or Instagram lately, you’ve seen the Beauty of Joseon Eye Cream making the rounds. Everyone and their skincare-obsessed cousin is singing its praises. So naturally, I needed to try it out for myself.

In this review, I’ll break down everything you need to know—from how it feels on the skin to whether it does the job for dark circles and fine lines. Let’s get started!

Key ingredients and effects

This eye cream went viral for a reason, it’s got a solid ingredient list that works:

• Retinal – A gentler version of retinol that combats fine lines and texture.
• Ginseng Extract: A K-beauty staple that brightens and awakens tired under-eyes.
• Niacinamide – Evens skin tone and dark circles.
• Ceramide NP & Cholesterol: Fixes the skin barrier and locks in moisture.
• Palmitoyl Tripeptide-5 – Collagen booster for firm, youthful-looking skin.

It’s such a good balance of firm but gentle, so that you can use it every day without overpowering sensitive skin.

Feel and texture

Light. Gel-like. Refreshing. Absorbs in seconds.

No greasiness, no heaviness—just a smooth, hydrated feel that layers great under moisturiser or makeup. Seriously, it’s the kind of texture that gets you excited to do your skincare routine.

How to use

Here’s how to make the most of it:

1. Use it after toner, before moisturiser (best at nighttime, preferably).
2. Dot a little around your under-eye with the tip of your ring finger (it’s the weakest!).
3. Pat it in gently—no rubbing! That skin is thin.
4. If you’re a retinoid beginner, take it slow—begin with 2–3 times weekly and gradually

Price and verdict

At just around £13.50 for 30ml, this eye cream is an absolute steal, particularly when you consider the quality of ingredients you’re getting. It’s worth investing in your skincare routine.

After using the Beauty of Joseon Eye Cream for a few weeks, I’ve noticed actual improvements. My under-eyes are less fatigued, dark circles are fading, puffiness is lessened, and my skin is smoother. These visible differences have me excited to continue using this product.

Overall rating

Efficacy: 4.9/5 – Actual results after continued use
Packaging: 5/5 – Sleek, minimal, travel-friendly
Value: 5/5 – Complete bang for your buck

Where to buy it?

It’s sometimes sold out on the official site, but you can usually find it on Amazon or authorised K-beauty retailers.

Frequently asked questions

Can I use Beauty of Joseon Eye Cream every day?

Yes, you can use it every day — but with a small caveat.

This eye cream contains retinol (a gentler form of retinyl ester). If you’re new to retinoids or have sensitive skin, it’s best to use it 2–3 times a week and gradually increase to every night as your skin builds tolerance.

Most people find it lightweight and gentle enough for daily use, especially after their skin adjusts.

Does Beauty of Joseon Eye Cream brighten the under eye area?

Yes, it can help brighten the under-eye area.

It contains ginseng extract and niacinamide, both of which are known for improving skin tone and reducing darkness. With consistent use (typically a few weeks), many users report a more refreshed and less tired appearance under the eyes.

Does the Beauty of Joseon Eye Cream contain retinol?

Not exactly — it contains retinal (also known as retinaldehyde).

Retinal is a stronger, more stable form of vitamin A than traditional retinol and converts more efficiently into retinoic acid (the active form) in the skin. It’s still effective for targeting fine lines and skin texture, but often gentler than standard retinol formulas, making it great for those who want anti-aging benefits without irritation.

Conclusion

The Beauty of Joseon Eye Cream is one of those products that’s worth the hype. It’s affordable, effective, and fits into any routine easily. If you’re looking for a no-frills eye cream that does something, this is a good option.

Pros

• Smooths out fine lines over time
• Brightens up dark circles with regular use
• Light, gel-like consistency that absorbs quickly
• Filled with good ingredients such as ginseng and niacinamide
• Highly affordable for what you’re getting

Cons

• For extremely sensitive skin, especially around the eyelids, it may irritate the skin.

Guest post by Abderrahim Abousalah

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