If you’ve been feeling (and looking) more worn out than usual, you’re not the only one. According to men’s skincare brand Buff, searches for “how to get rid of under-eye bags” and “how to get rid of dark circles” have jumped 86% compared to last year — and a staggering 136% in just the past three months. Clearly, tired eyes are having a moment.
Normally, these searches spike in winter, but this year the summer heatwave played its part. Too much sun and not enough water dries skin out and makes dark circles stand out more. Add in late nights, outdoor socialising, and generally burning the candle at both ends, and your face doesn’t exactly hide it.
The reality check
Here’s the truth nobody really wants to hear: the best cure for under-eye bags is still a solid night’s sleep. Simple, effective, but frustratingly hard to come by. In the meantime, there are a few tricks that can help. Buff’s Chief Product Officer points to hydration, sun protection, and cooling treatments (like chilled eye patches from the fridge) as easy wins for looking a bit fresher.
What Buff is offering
Buff has put together two products designed to tackle tired eyes — not miracle cures, but helpful boosts when you need them.
- Charcoal-Infused Under-Eye Gel Patches
These are the same type of patches TV make-up artists use to prep celebs before an interview. Each pack comes with five pairs, which usually lasts one to two weeks depending how often you use them.- Made with charcoal powder (detox), glycerin (hydration), and plant-based gels for a cooling effect.
- A quick 10–15 minute treatment that takes down puffiness and softens dark circles.
- Handy for daily use, post-gym, or even after the rare night of decent sleep.
- Available on subscription (add 2–4 packs and save 15%) if you want to keep them in rotation.
- Calming Eye Cream for Men
A lightweight cream with 1% Cannabidiol (CBD) to calm and hydrate the delicate under-eye area.- Helps reduce puffiness.
- Softens dark circles over time.
- Leaves skin looking brighter and more even, without feeling heavy or greasy.
The bottom line
Neither patches nor cream will ever beat the power of proper rest, but when life gets in the way (as it usually does), they can give you a welcome lift. Sometimes looking more awake is the first step to feeling it.
For more info visit skinbuff.co.uk