Question:
Necessity or not (?) - always ridiculously expensive.
Any recommendations (and when to apply)? Thanks!

Answer:
Depends on your age and skin type. The eye area is the most sensitive, thus one needs be careful when cleaning the face so as not to dry it out... Normally, very few people need special attention to this area before they are 30 years of age, even if the companies producing this stuff advises to start using as early as 25. I think that is too early, even if you have the most sensitive skin in the world and live in the harshest weather conditions. A regular face moisturiser should do fine for you.

Answer:
Yes, they are expensive. I started using an eye moisturizer (as well as exfoliator, toner and a weekly masque) when I was about 30. I'm now 59, and have no "crows-feet" wrinkles around my eyes; my skin is astounding compared to many of my friends. I think the investment is worth it, tho the results will not become apparent for many years.

Answer:
Maybe try the one from the L'Oreal Men line. Under $10.00 a tube.
I think products sold specifically for the "under eye area" are justified. Somtimes when I use a normal facial moisturiser under my eyes I get some irritation and look a bit red-eyed and teary (not the desired effect - so I have to rinse the moisturiser off). Never with special under-eye products, so I guess they're designed for very delicate sensitive skin.
Gavin


Answer:
The re-nutriv eye care creams (estee lauder)are very good. I agree that depends on your skin type and the problem you got: puffyness, drying, lines, dark circles, sagging.

Answer:
I am also using under eye treatments, I use Nickel Morning After rescue gel if I feel baggy, but else I ahve a skin regime every day, and I hope I ill save my skin as beau_silage. I am 35 years old and I started with this treatment for a couple of years ago and I feel so much better. A weekly mask and exfoliating a couple of times a week makes alot of different.
Justin

Answer:
Kiehl's makes a good undereye cream, as does Aveda. *Both are gender neutral, in case you're concerned. *Dab on the cream using your ring finger (the one next to your pinkie), because this finger is the weakest out of all of them and will put the least amount of strain on your delicate eye area. Start using eye cream young, especially if you live in a very dry or very cold climate, or if you get a lot of sun - your eyes see a lot of wear and tear over the years. *
And don't forget your sunglasses...these will protect this area from UV rays too.

Answer:
I don't think it's ever too early to start using undereye treatments. I've been using them since I was in high school.
Definitely listen to Herb Lady about the ring finger thing. I cannot imagine applying my eye treatments any other way.
As for recommended brands: I love anything by Remede. It's pricey though. For a great all-around one that is reasonably priced, I suggest Clinique All About Eyes.