Chalk it up to genetics—and not having the best rollerball eye sticks at my disposal—but I’ve had varying degrees of dark circles under my eyes for as long as I can remember. In my 20s, they had a kind of Julian Casablancas–up-all-night vibe, but now that I’m (a little) older, even missing a bit of sleep shows instantly. I’ve made peace with it, though I’ve always kept a secret weapon close: a metal rollerball eye stick tucked in my (non-performative) tote. Whether it’s part of your routine or just for those days when proper sleep evades you, it’s one of the quickest ways to revive tired eyes, delivers legit skin care benefits, and just feels refreshing to use.
Dr. Alexander GolBerg, MD, DO, a double-board-certified doctor, says, “Rollerball eye sticks are all about convenience—they’re easy to use on the go, deliver an instant cooling effect, and feel great.” The best eye sticks don’t just cool—they brighten, smooth, and boost circulation via targeted serums and (often) caffeine to wake up the area. And that cooling metal roller is sensorial and functional. Dr. GolBerg adds, “The rollerball isn’t just for a refreshing feel; it also helps stimulate microcirculation and supports gentle lymphatic drainage to temporarily reduce puffiness and give the under-eye area a less congested look.” Below are eight of the best eye sticks to refresh and revive, with Dr. GolBerg’s expert guidance on what to look for afterwards.
The Best Rollerball Eye Sticks
Best Overall: Huron Eye Serum
All of these eye sticks will give tired eyes a quick refresh, but Huron’s rollerball checks every box for an easy entry into the cooling stick game. True to Huron form, it feels tactile and approachable while rooted in research. The new 2.0 stick features a reformulated “botanical complex” that combines niacinamide, multiple hyaluronic acids, moringa seed oil, and caffeine to target dark circles, puffiness, and fine lines. The packaging and applicator have also received an upgrade: The rollerball now glides more smoothly while dispensing just the right amount of its quick-absorbing formula. Open, (gently) swipe, and refresh with ease.
Best for Morning Wake-Ups: Korres Greek Yoghurt Wide Awake Eye Gel
Korres built its buzz by blending natural botanicals (olive, wild rose, pine, and yes, Greek yogurt) with tried and true actives, and their under-eye roller is no exception. The retro metal-tin case nails a cool apothecary aesthetic, but it’s the formula that really wakes things up. This treatment taps Greek yogurt probiotics to nourish, paired with caffeine and two coffee extracts for what feels like a straight-up espresso shot for your under-eyes. Add in peptides, hyaluronic acid, and a roster of other actives, and you’ve got a stick that not only kickstarts circulation but also doubles as a proper skin care treatment.
