Consider the following options:
1. Jergens Natural Glow - inexpensive, works slowly (over several days), but well. You need to match your skin color though to the three available shades - if you go too light, you will not notice the tan and if you go too dark, it will look orange.
2. Clarins...
I have used TCA for the lower eyelids with excellent results but it sounds as if this may be too aggressive for you given the thin skin you describe.
Retin-A may actually thicken the skin. I think your problem is twofold.
Gel is absorbed but it is incredibly drying. You may want to consider a...
In certain individuals, even 10% TCA can cause scarring, though this is unlikely to occur. Although permanent scarring and discoloration from 20% TCA peel is uncommon, it can occur. Usually any dark pigmentation from this peel gradually fades, returning to the normal skin color after several...