Updated April 13, 2025 by Elisa Branda
Today I want to share with you my complete experience with the CHANEL N°1 Revitalizing Eye Serum, a product that I have rigorously tested for 8 consecutive weeks. If you are looking for an effective eye contour solution that combines luxury, effectiveness and innovation, this detailed review will be very useful to you.
My starting situation: why I chose this serum
In my skincare routines there is never a lack of one eye contour serum in combination with an eye contour cream, as I do for my face. Usually, however, serums are quite liquid and having dry skin I was looking for a milkier product capable of acting on both the signs of aging and the tone and dryness of the skin.
I have already tried several excellent eye contour products, of all price points, but of course I am always looking for that little something extra. When CHANEL launched the N°1 line focused on the benefits of red camellia, my curiosity was immediately captured, especially by thePatented applicator which promised a completely new experience.
First contact: packaging and presentation
Il N°1 de Chanel Le Sérum Yeux arrives in an elegant red packaging, which recalls the color of the camellia that is the protagonist of the N°1 line. The outer packaging is made of FSC-certified paper, demonstrating CHANEL's commitment to sustainability.
As soon as I opened it, I found the serum bottle with its characteristic rotating applicator. The design is minimalist and elegant, as expected from CHANEL. The weight and texture of the bottle and applicator immediately convey a feeling of luxury and quality..
One detail that I particularly appreciated is the refill system: the applicator can be stored and inserted into the refill bottle, significantly reducing waste. For a luxury house like CHANEL, this approach to sustainability is an important and appreciable step.
The formula: professional analysis of the ingredients
As a cosmetics expert, the first thing I do is carefully analyze the INCI (the list of ingredients). Here's what I noticed in the Eye Serum N°1 DE CHANEL.
Key ingredients:
- CAMELLIA JAPONICA FLOWER WATER and CAMELLIA JAPONICA FLOWER EXTRACT: As the main ingredients, they provide powerful antioxidant properties. CHANEL research has shown that they boost skin vitality by 63%.
- SACCHAROMYCES CEREVISIAE EXTRACT and FAEX (YEAST EXTRACT): These yeast extracts enhance cell renewal and improve skin resilience.
- COFFEA ARABICA (COFFEE) SEED OIL: Coffee seed oil is known for its stimulating properties that improve microcirculation, helping to reduce dark circles.
- EXIT: An active ingredient derived from horse chestnut with decongestant properties, ideal for reducing swelling.
- SODIUM HYALURONATE: A form of hyaluronic acid that provides deep hydration and helps smooth fine lines.
- PALMITOYL TETRAPEPTIDE-7: A peptide with anti-inflammatory properties that helps prevent skin aging.
- ACMELA OLERACEA EXTRACT: An ingredient with a natural tightening effect, often called “vegetable botox”.
The formula is alcohol-free, minimizing the risk of irritation or dryness.
Ingredient listing | CAMELLIA JAPONICA FLOWER WATER | AQUA (WATER) | GLYCERIN | PROPANEDIOL | DICAPRYLYL CARBONATE | CAPRYLIC/CAPRIC TRIGLYCERIDE | SQUALANE | CAMELLIA JAPONICA SEED OIL | SACCHAROMYCES CEREVISIAE EXTRACT | FAEX (YEAST EXTRACT) | COFFEA ARABICA (COFFEE) SEED OIL | CAMELLIA JAPONICA FLOWER EXTRACT | CAMELLIA OLEIFERA SEED OIL | PENTYLENE GLYCOL | LAUROYL LYSINE | SILICA | HYDROGENATED CANOLA OIL | AMMONIUM ACRYLOYLDIMETHYLTAURATE/VP COPOLYMER | ARGININE | MALTOOLIGOSYL GLUCOSIDE | EXIT | XANTHAN GUM | ETHYLHEXYLGLYCERIN | CHLORPHENESIN | ETHYLHEXYL PALMITATE | 1,2-HEXANEDIOL | HYDROGENATED STARCH HYDROLYSATE | ACRYLATES/C10-30 ALKYL ACRYLATE CROSSPOLYMER | CAPRYLYL GLYCOL | MALTODEXTRIN | ACMELLA OLERACEA EXTRACT | HELIANTHUS ANNUUS (SUNFLOWER) SEED OIL | CARBOMER | ADENOSINE | CAMELINA SATIVA SEED OIL | CANOLA OIL | SODIUM HYALURONATE | LACTIC ACID | PHYTIC ACID | SODIUM HYDROXIDE | SODIUM CITRATE | PALMITOYL TETRAPEPTIDE-7 | TOCOPHEROL | SODIUM BENZOATE | BS000431A
The applicator: the real revolution
One of the distinctive features of this serum is the innovative patented rotating applicator. I was really curious to experiment with the effect of this tool that I will also be able to use with other products, once I finish this one.
The applicator has a natural cold effect that instantly soothes the eyes. The rotating sphere allows you to delicately massage the eye contour, stimulating microcirculation and promoting drainage. The first few times I kept the product in the refrigerator for about 10 minutes before applying it, further increasing the refreshing effect.
The ergonomic design of the applicator allows you to precisely reach all areas of the eye contour, including the most difficult ones such as the inner corner and the lion's wrinkle. The rotation is smooth and the applicator releases the right amount of product.
My experience of use: a daily ritual
I scrupulously followed the application ritual recommended by CHANEL, “LE GESTE BEAUTÉ DU REGARD”, morning and evening for 8 consecutive weeks. Here's how I integrated it into my routine.
Morning routine:
- Cleansing with micellar water
- Hydrating toner and essence
- CHANEL N°1 Eye Serum (following the complete ritual)
- Face serum
- Moisturizing cream with SPF
- Makeup (when necessary)
Evening routine:
- Biphasic make-up remover
- Foaming cleanser
- Hydrating toner and essence
- CHANEL N°1 Eye Serum
- Antioxidant facial serum
- Night cream
Il application ritual it was a real moment of well-being:
- Apply in small touches all over the eye contour
- Smoothing movements on the upper eyelid (3 times)
- Smoothing movements on the crow's feet area (3 times)
- Smoothing movements under the eye (3 times for each area)
- Movements on the lion's wrinkle (you can also apply the serum on the eyebrows but I didn't do it)
This massage takes about 1-2 minutes for both eyes, a time investment that is definitely worth it. From the first application, I noticed a immediate refreshing effect and a pleasant sensation of lightness.
Texture and sensoriality
The texture of the serum is a kind of fresh and light emulsion, which is quickly absorbed without leaving any greasy or sticky residue. To the touch, the product has a silky consistency that immediately melts into the skin.
The sensorial aspect is one of the strong points of this product: the combination of the cold effect of the applicator with the freshness of the texture creates a truly pleasant experience, especially in the morning when the eyes are still swollen from sleep or in the evening when they are tired from the day.
One detail that I particularly appreciated is that The serum does not interfere with makeup. In fact, it creates an ideal base for concealer, which applies more easily and lasts longer.
Progressive Results: An 8 Week Journal
I carefully documented the results week after week, taking pictures in identical lighting conditions and evaluating various parameters on a scale of 1 to 10.
Week 1:
- Immediate effect: Noticeable reduction in morning swelling
- Hydration: 8/10
- Wrinkles: No significant changes
- Dark circles: Slight improvement (6/10)
- Footnotes: The refreshing effect is incredible, the look immediately appears more rested
Situation Week 2:
- Hydration: 9/10
- Wrinkles: Initial attenuation of fine lines (5/10)
- Dark circles: Most noticeable improvement (7/10)
- Footnotes: The skin around the eyes is visibly firmer
Week 4:
- Hydration: 9.5/10
- Wrinkles: Crow's feet appear significantly reduced (7/10)
- Dark circles: Significant reduction (8/10)
- Footnotes: People around me started noticing the change, asking me if I had changed my makeup.
Situation Week 6:
- Hydration: 10/10
- Wrinkles: Very noticeable attenuation (8/10)
- Dark circles: Drastic reduction (9/10)
- Footnotes: The eye contour appears at least 3-4 years younger
Week 8 (end of test):
- Hydration: 10/10
- Wrinkles: Crow's feet are significantly reduced (8.5/10)
- Dark circles: Almost completely disappeared (9.5/10)
- General brightness: 9/10
- Footnotes: The look appears visibly rejuvenated, more open and rested
Strengths and weaknesses
After 8 weeks of daily use, here is my assessment of the pros and cons of CHANEL N°1 Revitalizing Eye Serum:
Strengths
- Revolutionary applicator which transforms the application into a real treatment
- Immediate anti-fatigue effect, ideal for those with an intense lifestyle
- Full action on wrinkles, dark circles, puffiness and eyebrows
- Lightweight formula that does not interfere with makeup
- Charging system which reduces the environmental impact
- Excellent value for money considering the results obtained
- Visible effect after just a few applications
Weaknesses
- Limited capacity (15ml which lasts about 2-3 months with regular use)
- Need to learn the application technique to maximize results
- The inside of the bottle cannot be accessed if you want to use every last drop and this in my opinion is the weakest point, also considering the quantity-price ratio.
Who is this product particularly suitable for?
Based on my professional and personal experience, I consider CHANEL N°1 Revitalizing Eye Serum particularly suitable for:
- Women (and men) aged 30 and over who want to prevent and treat the signs of aging
- Those who have an intense lifestyle and look for an immediate anti-fatigue effect
- Those who suffer from morning swelling and wants a fresher look
- Who has persistent dark circles that makeup struggles to cover
- Who wants a multifunctional product that acts on multiple problems at the same time
- Those who appreciate beauty rituals and does not consider skincare application a simple routine
- Who is attentive to sustainability and appreciates the charging system
It is less suitable for:
- Those looking for instant and definitive results (the best results are seen with constant use over time)
- Those with specific allergies to ingredients contained in the formula
- Those with extremely sensitive skin (although the product is well tolerated, it is always advisable to do a patch test)
- Obviously I do not recommend it to those who prefer low-cost products.
Tips to optimize effectiveness
After 8 weeks of use, I have developed some “tricks” to maximize the effectiveness of CHANEL N°1 Eye Serum:
- Store it in the refrigerator for 10-15 minutes before application for an enhanced cooling effect
- Dedicate the right amount of time to the massage – do not rush the application
- Use the serum before an important event – the immediate anti-fatigue effect is perfect for special occasions
- Match the product with good habits: hydration, adequate rest, sun protection
- Try the “sandwich technique”: apply the serum, then a thin layer of eye cream, then a second light layer of serum for an intensive effect
The quality/price ratio
With a price ranging from €70 to €90 for 15ml, the N°1 DE CHANEL Revitalizing Eye Serum is positioned in the high-end market, but is more accessible than its direct competitors (La Mer, La Prairie, Sisley).
Considering:
- The visible results obtained
- The quality of the ingredients
- The innovative patented applicator
- The charging system (which reduces the long-term cost)
- The complete action on different issues
The evolution compared to previous versions
The N°1 DE CHANEL line represents a significant evolution compared to the brand's previous eye treatments. In particular:
- More complete formula: While previous lines focused mainly on hydration or the anti-wrinkle effect, N°1 DE CHANEL offers a complete action on the 3 dimensions of the gaze.
- Innovative ingredient: Red camellia extract replaces CHANEL's previous anti-aging active ingredients
- More sustainable approach: The charging system is an absolute first for CHANEL
- Patented applicator: A revolution compared to traditional pipette applicators
I have used other CHANEL eye treatments in the past (Le Lift, Sublimage), and I can say that N°1 represents a significant step forward in terms of overall effectiveness and user experience.
Where to buy it (with price comparison)
I have done a thorough research to help you find the best price:
- CHANEL Official Website: €90 (often with free samples)
- Sephora: €95 (possibility of using loyalty points) Visit Sephora
- Sensation: €79 and often there are very interesting discounts Visit Sensation
- Douglas: €99,99 (frequent promotions) Visit Douglas
- Pinalli perfumeries: €90 (often on sale) Visit Pinalli
The refill costs around €69, a saving of 12% compared to buying a new full bottle.
National: if you have the opportunity, shop at CHANEL boutiques or the official website, where exclusive samples and elegant gift packaging are often offered.
Conclusion and final evaluation
After 8 weeks of intensive testing, I can confidently say that CHANEL N°1 Revitalizing Eye Serum is one of the best eye contour treatments I have ever tried.
What makes this product truly special is the combination of:
- A tangible innovation (the patented applicator)
- An effective and well-balanced formula
- Visible and measurable results
- A pleasant and rewarding user experience
- A more sustainable approach with the charging system
CHANEL N°1 Eye Serum goes beyond simple aesthetic correction: it transforms skincare into a wellness ritual, with a beneficial effect that extends beyond the physical appearance.
If, like me, you consider the eyes the focal point of the face and you are looking for a product that combines effectiveness, innovation and pleasure of use, this serum represents an investment that is absolutely worth making.
A final personal reflection
After years of testing hundreds of beauty products, I've become quite cynical about miracle claims. Rarely does a product surprise me enough to permanently change my routine.
CHANEL N°1 Revitalizing Eye Serum is one of these rare exceptions. I will definitely continue using it after this test, and I have already purchased the refill to extend its use.
What I particularly appreciate is that CHANEL has not simply created another luxury product, but has invested in research to offer real innovation that tangibly improves the user experience and results.
And you, have you tried any products from the N°1 DE CHANEL line? Do you have specific questions about this eye serum? Share your experience in the comments below – I’m curious to know if your results were similar to mine!
YOU MAY ALSO BE INTERESTED IN:
Sign up for the newsletter to stay informed about all the news, receive special promotions, freebies and gifts!
