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  • Oribe Is “Quiet Luxury” Hair-Care That Always Delivers

    Oribe Is “Quiet Luxury” Hair-Care That Always Delivers

    Image may contain Mina Orfanou Face Head Person Photography Portrait Black Hair Hair Bottle Cosmetics and PerfumePaula Bolando; Source images: Courtesy of Allure editors and brandsSave StorySave this storySave StorySave this story

    Here’s the deal: The best Oribe products smell ridiculously good (kudos to the sandalwood- and bergamot-spiked Côte d'Azur scent)—but that's not the only factor that earns these formulas permanent-wash-day-staple status. Our editors are obsessed with how they leave hair silky-soft and noticeably stronger—so, yes, they earn their splurge status. But the magic goes back to Oribe Canales himself—the legendary hairstylist who helped define supermodel-era glamour, and, as former Allure creative director Paul Cavaco put it, created looks that are now “part of our collective hair language” without most of us even realizing it. While Oribe sadly passed in 2018, his influence is still very much alive and bottled up in every formula.

    Our Top Oribe Products

    • Grease, Be Gone: Serene Scalp Oil Control Shampoo, $52
    • Hydration Station: Gold Lust Repair & Restore Shampoo, $56
    • Mousse-Have: Grandiose Hair Plumping Mousse, $42
    • Weatherproof Wonder: Impermeable Anti-Humidity Spray, $44
    • Texture on Tap: Dry Texturizing Spray, $52

    Many of those formulas feature ingredients you probably already recognize from your skin-care routine, and they're just as kind to your strands as they are to your face. We’re talking heavy hitters like glycerin, vitamin E, and luxe botanical oils. Then, there’s the brand’s Signature Complex, found across the lineup, blending watermelon, lychee, and edelweiss flower to protect natural keratin and defend against oxidative stress. Whether your hair is curly, pin-straight, or somewhere in between, Oribe products prioritize the health of your hair—and that’s a statement we can get behind.

    After countless hours of combing (ha) through and testing Oribe's extensive lineup, we’ve compiled the end-all, be-all list of the best products to level up your hair-care routine.

    Frequently Asked QuestionsAccordionItemContainerButtonLargeChevron

    • How we test and review products
    • Our staff and testers

    Grease, Be Gone: Serene Scalp Oil Control Shampoo

    Oribe Serene Scalp Oil Control Shampoo in branded component on a light gray backgroundSave to wishlistSave to wishlist

    Oribe

    Serene Scalp Oil Control Shampoo

    $52

    Amazon

    $52

    Nordstrom

    $52

    Dermstore

    Why it’s worth it: If you have oily hair and simply can’t imagine skipping a wash day, Oribe’s Serene Scalp Oil Control Shampoo calms irritation and reduces flakiness, while a sugar-derived prebiotic works behind the scenes to keep your scalp’s bacteria in check. Made to support a balanced, healthy scalp microbiome, the formula taps antioxidant-rich rosebay extract, green marine algae, and a biomimetic amino acid (an ingredient that mimics the same building blocks of proteins like keratin) to help dial down excess oil. The result? A clean scalp that stays refreshed for longer—just one wash and you’re still feeling clean up to 72 hours later.

    Image may contain Adult Person and Hair

    Allure senior commerce director Shanna Shipin before using the Oribe Serene Scalp Oil Control Shampoo

    Image may contain Adult Person Animal Canine Mammal Pet and Hair

    Shipin after using the Oribe Serene Scalp Oil Control Shampoo

    Tester feedback from senior commerce director Shanna Shipin

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    “My hair is simultaneously dry and oily—and I use mousse, hairspray, and leave-in conditioner daily. Needless to say, I need to do a detox lather at least once a week, and the shampoo that can’t be topped for me is Oribe’s Serene Scalp. Not only does it slough off product residue, but it takes care of the oil and dandruff that I accumulate when I spend a little extra time between wash days. It never dries my scalp or hair out, smells lovely, and lathers beautifully. Often times to get a really fresh scalp, you need to reach for a scrub or a pre-shampoo, but this is all of those products in one.”—Shanna Shipin, senior commerce director

    More to know

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    • Key ingredients: rosebay extract, green marine algae, biomimetic amino acid, sugar-derived prebiotic, Oribe Signature Complex
    • Best for: those with oily scalps and/or dandruff

    Fit for a Queen: Royal Blowout Heat Styling Spray

    Oribe Royal Blowout Heat Styling Spray in branded component on a light gray backgroundSave to wishlistSave to wishlist

    Oribe

    Royal Blowout Heat Styling Spray

    $72

    Amazon

    $72

    Nordstrom

    $72

    Dermstore

    Allure commerce writer Lily Wohlner applying the Royal Blowout Heat Styling Spray

    Lily Wohlner

    Why it’s worth it: What’s the point of spending time styling your hair with heat tools, only to leave it looking dry or damaged? That’s where a high-performance heat protectant comes in handy. Royal Blowout shields strands from heat up to 450°F, so your styling routine doesn’t come at the expense of your hair’s strength through every blowout, curl, or pass with a flat iron. The formula is lightweight enough for finer textures, yet still delivers smoothing and frizz-control benefits for thicker hair. A nourishing blend of rice bran, rosehip fruit oil, and rosemary leaf extract works to strengthen and repair the look of split ends and damage, while imparting a glossy, sleek finish.

    Wohlner before applying the Royal Blowout Heat Styling Spray

    Wohlner before applying the Royal Blowout Heat Styling Spray

    Lily WohlnerWohlner after applying the Royal Blowout Heat Styling Spray

    Wohlner after applying the Royal Blowout Heat Styling Spray

    Lily Wohlner

    Tester feedback from commerce writer Lily Wohlner

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    “I’ve been giving myself a weekly at-home blowout with Royal Blowout ever since my time working with the brand at Oribe seven years ago—and despite testing plenty of new heat protectants, this one has never left my rotation. The scent alone doubles as a hair perfume that lingers until my next wash, but it’s the results that keep me hooked: glossy shine, soft bounce, and that just-left-the-salon finish. It’s super lightweight, but a few sprays go a long way, so one bottle lasts forever.” —Lily Wohlner, commerce writer

    More to know

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    • Key ingredients: rice bran, rosehip fruit oil, rosemary leaf extract, Oribe Signature Complex
    • Best for: those who consistently use hot tools

    Weatherproof Wonder: Impermeable Anti-Humidity Spray

    Oribe Impermeable Anti-Humidity Spray in branded component on a light gray backgroundSave to wishlistSave to wishlist

    Oribe

    Impermeable Anti-Humidity Spray

    $44

    Amazon (5.5 oz)

    $44

    Dermstore (5.5 oz)

    $24

    Nordstrom (2.0 oz)

    Allure managing editor Alessandra Foresto applying the Impermeable Anti-Humidity Spray

    Alessandra Foresto

    Why it’s worth it: Oribe knew a thing or two about humidity. After opening his Miami salon in the ’90s, he spent years working in that warm, sticky heat—perfecting big, glossy styles that somehow held up anyway. So if any product feels like it comes from lived experience, it’s this one. Because truly, what’s worse than styling your hair for hours, only for humidity to undo all of your hard work? The Impermeable Anti-Humidity Spray is here to lock down your ‘do, so the weather doesn’t dictate your look. Unlike many sprays designed for damp strands, this mist works specifically on dry hair, making it perfect when you’re in a pinch and need a final step before curling, waving, or flat-ironing. It leaves a smooth, almost satiny finish with a slight hold that resists frizz without ever feeling heavy or greasy. A climate-resistant copolymer extends the life of your hairstyle while vitamin B5 and vitamin E add softness, moisture, and shine.

    Foresto before applying the Impermeable AntiHumidity Spray

    Foresto before applying the Impermeable Anti-Humidity Spray

    Alessandra ForestoForesto after applying the Impermeable AntiHumidity Spray

    Foresto after applying the Impermeable Anti-Humidity Spray

    Alessandra Foresto

    Tester feedback from managing editor Alessandra Foresto

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    “This spray is my go-to all summer long to protect my hair from the 99% humidity of New York City, but I also reach for it on rainy days through the year (and when in a pinch if I need a little bit of hold or texture in my hair). I use it as the last step in my routine right before I step out of my apartment to protect my flatiron waves. It’s like a mix between texturizer, dry shampoo, and hairspray. It gives your hair a bit of hold, but also sets it in place so it doesn't immediately fall flat or puff up when you go outside in a rainstorm or a super humid day. The spray bottle, like all Oribe products, is also so luxe and beautiful, and the nozzle applicator delivers a strong amount of product, so make sure you keep the spray moving so you don't get too much product in one spot (you can brush through that spot to distribute the product if it happens, though).” —Alessandra Foresto, managing editor

    More to know

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    • Key ingredients: vitamin E, copolymers, Vitamin B5, Oribe Signature Complex
    • Best for: those with frizzy hair that doesn’t mix well with humidity

    Texture on Tap: Dry Texturizing Spray

    Oribe Dry Texturizing Spray in branded component on a light gray backgroundSave to wishlistSave to wishlist

    Oribe

    Dry Texturizing Spray

    $52

    Amazon

    $52

    Nordstrom

    $52

    Dermstore

    Allure content director Sophia Paynch applying the Oribe Dry Texturizing Spray

    Sophia Paynch

    Why it’s worth it: Backstage, Oribe was known for making hair go from flat to full in what felt like seconds, and you get that same instant, weightless volume in Oribe’s Dry Texturizing Spray. Unlike some texturizing sprays that can feel a little gritty or stiff, this formula lifts roots and adds dimension with zeolite crystals that make hair look and feel touchable. And because it’s Oribe, it features the brand’s Signature Complex to protect from the elements. Whether you’re reviving a blowout, adding a little extra thickness, or giving waves a lived-in vibe, this spray makes it look like you tried a lot harder than you did.

    Paynch before applying the Oribe Dry Texturizing Spray

    Paynch before applying the Oribe Dry Texturizing Spray

    Sophia PaynchPaynch after applying the Oribe Dry Texturizing Spray

    Paynch after applying the Oribe Dry Texturizing Spray

    Sophia Paynch

    Tester feedback from content director Sophia Paynch

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    “My relationship with Oribe Dry Texturizing Spray has lasted longer than all of my romantic ones—even counting my husband (we've been together for almost nine years, and I've owned a can of this stuff for almost 15 years). Any professional hairstylist will agree that it's just one of those products that's good to always have handy when you want a little volume, a little texture, or just a little zhuzh in general. I spray it into my hair after it's been rough-dried, air-dried, or nicely blow-dried. It works all the same. I usually blast each side for about five seconds, making sure to get the under layers of my hair. Then, I'll flip my head upside down and spray it in that way, too. It's light as air, smells amazing, and is truly multi-purpose. It lifts roots like a dry shampoo, adds light hold like a flexible hairspray, and adds texture like a beach spray. It makes fine hair like mine look and feel five times thicker, and while it does make your hair feel a bit dry to the touch, it never looks that way.” —Sophia Paynch, content director

    More to know

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    • Key ingredients: zeolite crystals, Oribe Signature Complex
    • Best for: those looking to top their styles off with volume and dimension

    Oil Over it: Gold Lust Nourishing Hair Oil

    Oribe Gold Lust Nourishing Hair Oil in branded black and gold gradient bottle on light gray backgroundSave to wishlistSave to wishlist

    Oribe

    Gold Lust Nourishing Hair Oil

    $59

    Amazon

    $59

    Nordstrom

    $59

    Dermstore

    Former Allure shopping market editor Angela Trakoshis applying Oribe Gold Lust Nourishing Hair Oil

    Angela Trakoshis

    Why it’s worth it: Do us a favor and don't write off hair oils until you've tried the Oribe Gold Lust Nourishing Hair Oil. It's a light, restorative, and protective formula that enhances your hair's shine and sleekness, even on the driest, most damaged days (a few drops go a long way). It starts with Oribe’s Signature Complex, then layers in frizz-smoothing argan oil, omega-rich cassis seed oil to help strengthen, soothing jasmine oil to calm the scalp, and shea butter for softness and shine. And despite that lineup of richer ingredients, it still feels completely weightless on the hair. You can use the 2024 Best of Beauty winner on wet or dry hair, but we love how it gives a scent to damp hair right out of the shower.

    Tester feedback from former shopping market editor Angela Trakoshis

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    “Oribe’s Gold Lust Hair Oil might be a splurge, but it’s absolutely worth it—it leaves my hair soft, shiny, and healthy, and the scent is unreal—think a high-end salon on the Upper East Side. Every time someone hugs me, they ask what perfume I’m wearing, and I get to say, ‘It’s just my hair oil!’”—Angela Trakoshis, former shopping market editor

    More to know

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    • Key ingredients: argan oil, cassis seed oil, jasmine oil, shea butter, Oribe Signature Complex
    • Who it’s for: those who want to finish their looks with a burst of shine and luster

    Mousse-Have: Grandiose Hair Plumping Mousse

    Grandiose Hair Plumping Mousse on a grey backgroundSave to wishlistSave to wishlist

    Oribe

    Grandiose Hair Plumping Mousse

    $42

    Amazon

    $42

    Nordstrom

    $42

    Dermstore

    Allure contributing commerce editor Deanna Pai applying the Grandiose Hair-Plumping Mousse

    Deanna Pai

    Why it’s worth it: Body-boosting, fluffy-foamed, and never-crunchy, Oribe’s Grandiose Hair Plumping Mousse is an editor favorite. The brand describes each pump of the mousse as a “pouf,” which we find to be accurate, given the product's airy nature. (It won’t weigh down even fine hair.) You can expect bigger, better, and softer hair with every application, plus the added perks of heat protection and strand repair. It works best when paired with heat, so bust out the blow-dryer and let the panthenol, glycerin, vitamin E, polymers, and Oribe Signature Complex get to work.

    Pai before applying Oribe Grandiose HairPlumping Mousse

    Pai before applying Oribe Grandiose Hair-Plumping Mousse

    Deanna PaiPai after applying Oribe Grandiose HairPlumping Mousse and letting her hair airdry

    Pai after applying Oribe Grandiose Hair-Plumping Mousse and letting her hair air-dry

    Deanna Pai

    Tester feedback from contributing commerce editor Deanna Pai

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    "My fine yet wavy hair tends to get flat at the crown, so when I need a little more oomph, I go for this mousse, layering it on after leave-in conditioner. It has just the right amount of volume and definition to add some lift and shape my curls, respectively, but doesn't feel crunchy—even when I layer it on for extra hold." —Deanna Pai, contributing commerce editor

    More to know

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    • Key ingredients: panthenol, glycerin, vitamin E, polymers, Oribe Signature Complex
    • Who it’s for: those who need oomph at the roots of their hair

    Freeze the Moment: Superfine Strong Hairspray

    Oribe Superfine Strong Hair Spray black bottle of hairspray on light gray backgroundSave to wishlistSave to wishlist

    Oribe

    Superfine Strong Hair Spray

    $46

    Amazon

    $46

    Nordstrom

    $46

    Dermstore

    Why it’s worth it: It’s not every day you meet a hairspray that actually adds shine instead of a telltale cloudy cast, which is why Oribe’s Superfine Strong Hold Hairspray has our attention. Doubling as a light hair perfume (of course it does), this hairspray keeps styles in place while leaving a soft, glossy finish. The formula goes a step further with pro-vitamin B5 heat protection in the form of hydrolyzed wheat protein, which breaks proteins into small amino acids and peptides so they can penetrate the hair and strengthen from within. Even though the whole operation feels lightweight, the hold is serious without looking stiff, which we can always get behind (especially for an updo or big curls).

    Allure senior beauty editor Jesa Marie Calaor applying Oribe Superfine Strong Hairspray

    Jesa Marie CalaorCalaor after applying Oribe Superfine Strong Hairspray

    Calaor after applying Oribe Superfine Strong Hairspray

    Jesa Marie Calaor

    Tester feedback from senior beauty editor Jesa Marie Calaor

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    "As the name says, the nozzle of this sleek can dispenses a featherweight, fine mist of hairspray that makes distributing it evenly across my waves a breeze. I use it to keep my heat-styled waves bouncy and intact without any crunchiness or stickiness.” —Jesa Marie Calaor, senior beauty editor

    More to know

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    • Key ingredients: pro-vitamin B5, hydrolyzed wheat protein, Oribe Signature Complex
    • Who it’s for: those looking for hold in their blowout or updo

    Tame the Mane: Italian Resin Flat Brush

    Oribe Italian Resin Flat Brush on multicolored branded component on a light gray backgroundSave to wishlistSave to wishlist

    Oribe

    Italian Resin Flat Brush

    $100

    Amazon

    $100

    Nordstrom

    $100

    Dermstore

    Allure social media director Kassidy Silva using the Oribe Italian Resin Flat Brush

    Kassidy Silva

    Why it’s worth it: We don’t always give our hairbrushes enough credit—they get dragged through tangles, heat-styled strands, and product buildup. So when you find one that actually holds up (and makes your hair look better in the process), it starts to make sense why you’d invest a little more. Case in point: the Oribe Italian Resin Flat Brush. It isn't every day we drop $100 on a hairbrush, but the 2023 Best of Beauty Award seal says it all. Made with a mix of boar bristles, rounded nylon pins, and a 97% natural rubber cushion, it’s designed to detangle gently while smoothing and boosting shine. (It doesn’t hurt that the custom-designed Italian resin handle looks like it belongs on a very chic vanity.) As it cares for your hair, don’t forget to care for it right back: Rinse it regularly, shake out excess water, and let it air-dry to keep it in top shape.

    Tester feedback from social media director Kassidy Silva

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    “If you have ultra-long hair that's prone to frizz, this is your new secret weapon. After blow-drying and curling my hair on wash days, I give my ends a few swipes with the Oribe Italian Resin Flat Brush to brush out my curls before hitting them with a finishing spray. Be careful not to tug too tightly, or your curls will morph into very loose waves. Between washes, I use it to help tame my flyaways by giving the bristles a spritz or two of a flexible hairspray and brushing just at my roots.” —Kassidy Silva, social media director

    More to know

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    • Material: boar bristles, Italian resin, rounded nylon pins
    • Who it’s for: those with long, frizzy hair

    Hydration Station: Gold Lust Repair & Restore Shampoo

    Gold Lust Repair & Restore Shampoo black to white gradient bottle of shampoo on light gray backgroundSave to wishlistSave to wishlist

    Oribe

    Gold Lust Repair & Restore Shampoo

    $56

    Amazon

    $56

    Nordstrom

    $56

    Dermstore

    Allure contributing commerce writer Annie Blackman applying Oribe Gold Lust Repair & Restore Shampoo

    Annie Blackman

    Why it’s worth it: Gentle, nourishing, and all kinds of decadent, Oribe’s Gold Lust Repair & Restore Shampoo is one we keep coming back to (and re-purchasing). Infused with ingredients like strengthening biotin, smoothing plant collagen, energizing caffeine, and oil-balancing niacinamide, it penetrates the hair cuticle, strengthening from the root down and dialing up that healthy, glossy shine. In other words, it’s not just there to cleanse (plenty of cheaper shampoos can handle that)—it’s actively doing repair work as it goes, so your hair feels stronger over time. And then there’s the luxe lather: Once it hits your hair, it whips up into a fluffy, cloud-like foam—impressive for a sulfate-free formula (because they don’t always bring the suds). Rinse it out, and you’re left with soft, silky strands. Pair it with the Gold Lust Repair & Restore Conditioner for an even bigger boost.

    Tester feedback from contributing commerce writer Annie Blackman

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    “Before I tried the Gold Lust Shampoo, I was scared the scent would be too strong. (The bottle is pretty dramatic looking—can you blame me?) But all it took was one wash to assuage my fears. This stuff smells amazing, feels lightweight post-shower, and leaves my hair feeling legit so soft. In the shower, it smells stronger than it is after drying off, so if you’re overpowered at first, just know that the scent will fade just the right amount.” —Annie Blackman, contributing commerce writer

    More to know

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    • Key ingredients: biotin, plant collagen, caffeine, niacinamide, Oribe Signature Complex
    • Best for: those with dry hair who want a hydrating cleanse

    Curl Talk: Eternal Curls Polish & Protect Oil

    Oribe Eternal Curls Polish & Protect Oil in branded component on a light gray backgroundSave to wishlistSave to wishlist

    Oribe

    Eternal Curls Polish & Protect Oil

    $56

    Amazon

    $56

    Nordstrom

    $56

    Dermstore

    Why it’s worth it: Though the brand may be best known for blowouts, not curls, the newer Eternal Curls line taps into something Oribe always believed: Your hair should look like itself, just better (rather than coaxed into submission). If you have curl types 2 through 4, the Eternal Curls Polish & Protect Oil is the first product from the line we’d urge you to try. Its blend of natural oils (watermelon seed, castor seed, apricot, and coconut) sinks into the curl shaft to hydrate and impart a glossy, lightweight shine. The brand recommends using it on damp hair (it locks in that moisture), but it can also be used as a pre-wash treatment when your curls are feeling extra dry.

    More to know

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    • Key ingredients: watermelon seed, castor seed, apricot, and coconut oils, Oribe Signature Complex
    • Best for: those looking to hydrate their curly or coily hair

    Frequently Asked Questions

    How we test and review products

    We always enlist a range of testers for our makeup vertical, but hair-care products and tools are another story. While there are certainly products that can be used across different hair textures, lengths, curl patterns, thicknesses, colors (natural and unnatural), and needs, hair products are often created with specific consumers in mind. Many are created in order to address a concern (dandruff, breakage, brittleness) or to work most effectively for a specific hair type (4C curls, wavy hair, gray hair). You wouldn’t want to pick up a purple shampoo that’s only been reviewed by someone with, say, auburn hair, or a diffuser that’s never been tested by anyone with curls—right?

    For our review of the best Oribe products, we enlisted the help of multiple editors, writers, contributors, and hair experts—many of whom want shinier, healthier-looking hair. Testers considered performance across four primary categories: efficacy, texture and experience, fragrance, and packaging. For more on what's involved in our reporting, check out our complete reviews process and methodology page.

    Our staff and testers

    A beauty product is a personal purchase. You might be searching for a face cream to address persistent dryness or a new nail product to add to your Sunday self-care routine; you may simply be browsing around for the latest launches to hit the hair market. No matter what you seek or your individual needs and concerns, Allure wants to ensure that you love anything we recommend in our stories. We believe that having a diverse team of writers and editors—in addition to the wide range of outside testers and industry experts we regularly call upon—is essential to reaching that goal.

  • 10 Best Primers for Mature Skin That Don’t Settle, Slide, or Crease

    10 Best Primers for Mature Skin That Don’t Settle, Slide, or Crease

    Image contains a collage of makeup primers for mature skinCollage: Jemeria Davison; Source images: Courtesy of brandsSave StorySave this storySave StorySave this story

    Taking the extra step to prep with one of the best primers for mature skin before getting glam can make a big, hydrating difference. If you're not already a self-identified primer lover, these formulas do way more than help your makeup last all day—they also promote plumper skin, soften fine lines, and boost glow.

    Especially as aging faces undergo the hormonal changes of menopause, primers with skin-loving ingredients like hyaluronic acid and niacinamide can deliver plenty of benefits, helping base makeup apply more evenly on top while keeping skin radiant. Get the low-down on the best primers for mature skin here, plus insight from cosmetic chemists and makeup artists to achieve your longest-lasting looks yet.

    Our Top Primers for Mature Skin

    • Best Overall: Hourglass Illusion Priming Moisturizer, $58
    • Best for Dull Skin: Chanel La Base Illuminatrice Glowing Makeup Primer, $56
    • Best for Oily Skin: Danessa Myricks Yummy Skin Blurring Balm Powder, $39
    • Best Drugstore: e.l.f. Cosmetics Power Grip Primer, $11

    Frequently Asked QuestionsAccordionItemContainerButtonLargeChevron

    • What are the benefits of a primer for mature skin?
    • How should I choose a primer for mature skin?
    • Meet the experts
    • How we test and review products
    • Our staff and testers

    Best Overall: Hourglass Illusion Priming Moisturizer

    Hourglass Illusion Priming Moisturizer in branded component on a light gray backgroundSave to wishlistSave to wishlist

    Hourglass

    Illusion Priming Moisturizer

    $58

    Bluemercury

    Why it’s worth it: For mature skin, the best face primer isn’t just about helping makeup last (though this one does)—it’s about creating a smoother, more hydrated base that won’t call attention to fine lines or dryness. Hourglass’s Illusion Priming Moisturizer has a silky, lightweight formula that “creates a diffusing effect on mature skin,” says New York City-based makeup artist Rebecca Restrepo.

    Squalane, ceramides, and sweet almond oil replenish moisture and support the barrier, while multiple forms of hyaluronic acid plump and soften the look of wrinkles. Niacinamide and adenosine also work together to brighten, smooth, and improve overall texture.

    More to know

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    • Key ingredients: squalane, ceramides, sweet almond oil, hyaluronic acid, niacinamide, adenosine
    • Who it's for: people with dry skin and fine lines
    • Longevity: not specified
    • Fragrance-free: yes

    Best for Dry Skin: Bobbi Brown Face Base Moisturizer and Primer

    Bobbi Brown Vitamin Enriched Face Base Moisturizer & Primer jar of yellow primer with black cap on light gray background with red Allure Best of Beauty seal in the top right cornerSave to wishlistSave to wishlist

    Bobbi Brown

    Vitamin Enriched Face Base

    $69

    Amazon

    $69

    Nordstrom

    $69

    Ulta Beauty

    Why it's worth it: Vitamin-rich, creamy, and so hydrating, Bobbi Brown's Face Base Moisturizer and Primer checks all of our boxes. This Best of Beauty Award-winning formula is packed with hyaluronic acid, vitamin C, squalane, and shea butter to nourish your skin and keep your makeup in place all day. It smells terrific, too, with no synthetics necessary, thanks to natural grapefruit extract.

    "This is a must-have in my kit for mature skin; it acts as a moisturizer and a primer in one," says New York City-based makeup artist Kasey Spickard. “It's essential that you're hydrating and plumping aging skin to give it a fresh, dewy glow.”

    Tester feedback from senior director of commerce audience & analytics Lexi Herrick

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    “This takes hydrating primers to a different level. It's an absolute powerhouse of a base product, packed with vitamins and nutrients. With a gentle scent and creamy, soft texture, it glides over my skin and absorbs instantly. My skin is breakout-prone and can be irritated by oily primers, but this hydrates and holds without sparking a breakout. It keeps my makeup in place all day and prevents foundation from drying out my skin.” —Lexi Herrick, senior director of audience development

    More to know

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    • Key ingredients: shea butter, squalane, hyaluronic acid, vitamin C
    • Who it's for: people with normal or oily skin
    • Longevity: not specified
    • Fragrance-free: yes

    Best for Dull Skin: Chanel La Base Illuminatrice Glowing Makeup Primer

    Chanel La Base Illuminatrice Glowing Makeup PrimerSave to wishlistSave to wishlist

    Chanel

    La Base Illuminatrice Glowing Makeup Primer

    $56

    Chanel

    $56

    Nordstrom

    $56

    Ulta Beauty

    Why it’s worth it: For some of us, we’ll admit it doesn’t take more than the word Chanel to make us ooh and aah. But La Base Illuminatrice Glowing Makeup Primer backs up the buzz. Designed to smooth, hydrate, and subtly illuminate, it’s especially flattering for mature skin with ingredients like plumping hyaluronic acid, antioxidant-rich microalgae, and pearlescent blurring powders.

    If you’re worried about too much shimmer, rest assured: “It has gentle light-reflecting pigment that’s super fine—not too sparkly—so it looks natural, gives your skin, and your foundation that inner radiance, youthful glow-from-within look,” says New York City-based makeup artist Nick Barose.

    More to know

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    • Key ingredients: hyaluronic acid, blue micro-algae, red algae
    • Who it's for: everyone, but especially those with dry or dull skin
    • Longevity: up to 12 hours
    • Fragrance-free: no

    Best for Oily Skin: Danessa Myricks Yummy Skin Blurring Balm Powder

    Danessa Myricks Beauty Yummy Skin Blurring Balm Powder in Universal in branded component on a light gray backgroundSave to wishlistSave to wishlist

    Danessa Myricks

    Yummy Skin Blurring Balm Powder

    $39

    Sephora

    Why it’s worth it: People often assume mature skin automatically equals dry skin, but that’s not always the case. While oil production can slow with age, hormones, dehydration, and genetics mean many people still deal with shine. For those in that camp, “I love that Danessa Myricks’ Yummy Skin Blurring Balm Powder doesn’t highlight pores or wrinkles but still leaves the skin looking polished and ready for foundation,” says Kayla Shantal, a makeup artist based in Las Vegas. The balm-to-powder formula uses upsalite and kaolin clay to control excess oil while creating a smooth, matte base.

    That's not all: Hyaluronic acid adds lightweight hydration, while olive-derived squalane locks it in so your skin doesn’t fall flat. Every swipe of this 2023 Best of Beauty Award winner gets you a blurred finish that doesn’t cling to texture, and with a versatile shade range—including a universal/clear option—it’s easy to find your match.

    More to know

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    • Key ingredients: upsalite, squalane, hyaluronic acid, kaolin clay
    • Who it's for: people with oily skin
    • Shades: 22
    • Longevity: not disclosed
    • Fragrance-free: yes

    Best for Uneven Texture: Embryolisse Mattifying Moisturizer

    Embryolisse Mattifying Moisturizer in branded tube component on a light gray backgroundSave to wishlistSave to wishlist

    Embryolisse

    Mattifying Moisturizer

    $33

    Amazon

    $33

    Revolve

    Why it’s worth it: Just because it’s not labeled as a primer doesn’t mean it can’t do the job well. Embryolisse’s Mattifying Moisturizer pulls double duty as a texture-refining base, evening things out while also keeping skin comfortably hydrated. “It softens rough patches without feeling tight, and it keeps everything looking natural instead of shiny,” says Shantal.

    Fine plant-based powders further blur rough or uneven areas while absorbing excess oil, creating a smoother surface for makeup. At the same time, glycerin and squalane replenish moisture so makeup won’t cling to dry spots, and turmeric extract improves the look of uneven tone.

    More to know

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    • Key ingredients: plant-based powder, glycerin, squalane, turmeric extract
    • Who it's for: people with uneven texture or tone
    • Longevity: not disclosed
    • Fragrance-free: no

    Best Drugstore: e.l.f. Cosmetics Power Grip Primer

    e.l.f. Cosmetics Power Grip Primer in branded tube component on a light gray backgroundSave to wishlistSave to wishlist

    E.L.F. Cosmetics

    Power Grip Primer

    $11

    Amazon

    $11

    Ulta Beauty

    Why it’s worth it: It used to feel like primers sucked the life out of your skin—after all, how can makeup really stay put on a dewy base? The trick to e.l.f. Cosmetics’ Power Grip Primer is letting the lightweight gel set for about 30 seconds before applying makeup. From there, it creates that signature tacky (but not sticky) grip that locks everything in place without flattening your glow.

    What makes it especially appealing for mature skin is its ability to balance hold with hydration. “It has hyaluronic acid, which helps the appearance of skin look smoother,” says Restrepo. “The gel also acts like a veil on the skin, so it doesn’t look heavy or settle into fine lines,” she adds. Glycerin and niacinamide add moisture and smooth texture, while rosemary and peppermint leaf waters lend a subtle toning effect and a fresh, cooling feel with each application.

    More to know

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    • Key ingredients: hyaluronic acid, glycerin, niacinamide
    • Who it's for: everyone, especially people with dry skin
    • Longevity: not disclosed
    • Fragrance-free: yes

    Best for Large Pores: Tatcha The Liquid Silk Canvas Primer

    Tatcha The Liquid Silk Canvas Primer lavender bottle on light gray backgroundSave to wishlistSave to wishlist

    Tatcha

    The Liquid Silk Canvas Primer

    $55

    Amazon

    $55

    Ulta Beauty

    $55

    Tatcha

    Why it's worth it: Nashville-based makeup artist Emily Gray sings the praises of Tatcha's The Liquid Silk Canvas, calling it "the most lightweight primer" she's ever used. A blurring primer infused with silk extract, it hydrates while softening the appearance of pores, fine lines, and wrinkles. "It locks down base makeup for hours of wear, does not alter your foundation pigment, and works with both water-based and cream foundations,” adds Daniel Martin, a New York City-based makeup artist and Tatcha’s global director of artistry. It also contains pink and gold pearl powders that even out and brighten the skin.

    But the coolest part? This primer is inspired by traditional Japanese beauty routines, namely bintsuke, a thin layer of soft wax that geisha use under their makeup to create a smooth, grippy canvas.

    More to know

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    • Key ingredients: silk extract, green tea, algae extract
    • Who it's for: everyone, especially those targeting texture, pores, or fine lines
    • Longevity: not specified
    • Fragrance-free: no

    Best Lightweight: Tarte Base Tape Hydrating Primer

    Tarte Base Tape Hydrating Primer white bottle with white cap with gold stripes on light gray backgroundSave to wishlistSave to wishlist

    Tarte

    Base Tape Hydrating Primer

    $34

    Amazon

    $34

    Ulta Beauty

    Why it's worth it: Launched on the heels of Tarte’s Shape Tape Concealer's massive success, Base Tape Hydrating Primer was designed to deliver the same smooth, perfected finish to your prep step. Infused with moisturizing jojoba, coconut, and vitamin E, it replenishes thirsty skin and leaves it baby-soft. Meanwhile, soothing Centella asiatica (more commonly known as cica) helps tackle fine lines and boost skin’s elasticity.

    In other words, skin-care lovers, this one's for you. It's like applying a moisturizer, but it also helps your makeup stay put all day," New York- and New Jersey-based makeup artist Nydia Figueroa says. " Heads-up: There’s a faint scent of coconut, so if you're fragrance-sensitive, this might not be the one for you.

    More to know

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    • Key ingredients: coconut, jojoba, Centella asiatica
    • Who it's for: those with dry skin
    • Longevity: up to 12 hours
    • Fragrance-free: no

    Best with SPF: Charlotte Tilbury Invisible UV Flawless Primer SPF 50

    Charlotte Tilbury Invisible UV Flawless Primer SPF 50 flat white tube on light gray backgroundSave to wishlistSave to wishlist

    Charlotte Tilbury

    Invisible UV Flawless Primer SPF 50

    $55

    Nordstrom

    $55

    Ulta Beauty

    Why it’s worth it: While we’re not exactly chasing “flawless” skin over here (we’re very much about embracing what makes you, you), we’re also not mad at anything that helps makeup look a little smoother and more even. We always suggest applying a separate layer of sunscreen underneath your makeup, but an SPF-infused primer can add some extra protection against UV rays (and we’d never say no to that).

    Charlotte Tilbury’s Invisible UV Flawless Primer SPF 50 is also made with brightening vitamin C and hyaluronic acid that hydrates skin for up to 24 hours, according to the brand. Plus, an extract from African mahogany tree bark helps shrink the appearance of pores, fine lines, and wrinkles for a super-smooth base.

    ​​Tester feedback from contributor Jennifer Hussein

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    “My biggest beauty flaw is that I constantly forget to apply sunscreen (a total skin sin, I know), but I don't have to fret about that when I have Charlotte Tilbury's Invisible UV Flawless Primer SPF 50 in my makeup bag. Not only does it provide sun protection, but it also grips my complexion products in place all day long while feeling totally weightless on my skin.” —Jennifer Hussein, contributor

    More to know

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    • Key ingredients: hyaluronic acid, glycerin, vitamins C and E, shea butter, camellia seed oil
    • Who it's for: all skin types
    • Longevity: moisturizes for up to 24 hours
    • Fragrance-free: no

    Best for Lips: Sarah Creal Lip Grip Peptide Priming Treatment

    Sarah Creal Lip Grip Peptide Priming Treatment on a grey backgroundSave to wishlistSave to wishlist

    Sarah Creal

    Lip Grip Peptide Priming Treatment

    $36

    Sephora

    Model Marnie Herald applying the Sarah Creal Lip Grip Peptide Priming Treatment

    Marnie Herald

    Why it’s worth it: It’s colorless, lightweight, and pocket-sized, but Sarah Creal’s Lip Grip Peptide Priming Treatment has major priming powers and creates the perfect base for any lip color, especially on mature lips. “This is a go-to for clients over 40 because it prevents feathering and keeps lip color in place with honey polymer, which grips onto color for longer wear,” Santa Paula, California-based makeup artist Lindsey Sanchez told Allure. “You can even use it around your mouth to soften the look of fine lines.”

    As the name suggests, the formula includes peptides to support collagen and lactic acid to gently exfoliate, helping lipstick glide on effortlessly and look its absolute best.

    Herald before applying the Sarah Creal Lip Grip Peptide Priming Treatment

    Herald before applying the Sarah Creal Lip Grip Peptide Priming Treatment

    Marnie HeraldHerald after applying the Sarah Creal Lip Grip Peptide Priming Treatment

    Herald after applying the Sarah Creal Lip Grip Peptide Priming Treatment

    Marine Herald

    More to know

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    • Key ingredients: peptides, lactic acid
    • Who it's for: those with dry lips and fine lines around the mouth
    • Longevity: up to 12 hours
    • Fragrance-free: yes

    Best Long-Lasting: Milk Makeup Hydro Grip + Glow Illuminating Primer

    Milk Makeup Hydro Grip + Glow Illuminating Primer in branded component on a light gray backgroundSave to wishlistSave to wishlist

    Milk Makeup

    Hydro Grip + Glow Illuminating Primer

    $30

    Amazon

    $30

    Ulta Beauty

    Why it’s worth it: For the right amount of glow (no harsh sparkles or glitter, we promise), there’s the Best of Beauty Award-winning Milk Makeup Hydro Grip + Glow Illuminating Primer. Sister to the brand’s viral Hydro Grip primer, this version pairs hydrating hyaluronic acid and tone-evening niacinamide with light-reflecting pearls for a brightening boost that doesn’t cling to uneven texture in your skin. Blue agave extract helps lock makeup in place for up to 12 hours, while glycerin draws moisture into the skin to keep it looking plump and smooth, softening the appearance of fine lines.

    Soothing aloe and cactus flower extracts add a layer of comfort, while hemp seed extract supports the skin barrier. The subtle tint pulls it all together, giving skin a soft radiance that pretty much doubles as a built-in highlighter.

    Tester feedback from senior beauty editor Jesa Marie Calaor

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    “As a self-proclaimed professional concert-goer, I need something to make my makeup last. This slick goo goes on to feel weightless and—like the name says—grips makeup through dancing, sweating, and scream-singing. My foundation and heavy liner always look pristine after a three-to four-hour show.” —Jesa Marie Calaor, senior beauty editor

    More to know

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    • Key ingredients: aloe leaf water, hyaluronic acid, niacinamide, glycerin, cactus flower, hemp seed
    • Who it's for: dull, dry skin
    • Longevity: up to 12 hours
    • Fragrance-free: no

    Frequently Asked Questions

    What are the benefits of a primer for mature skin?

    The best makeup primers for mature skin are made with gentle ingredients that support the unique beauty of aging skin. "More mature skin is often in need of a hydration boost, so humectants like glycerin, betaine, and hyaluronic acid are beneficial," Cincinnati-based cosmetic chemist Kelly Dobos explains. Along with nourishing your skin, a high-quality primer boosts the effectiveness of your other makeup products, creating a smooth, long-lasting base that locks in hydration and wears well. "Think of primer as double-sided tape for the face," says Figueroa. "It locks in skin care, keeps your makeup in place, and prevents it from creasing or settling into fine lines and wrinkles."

    "The primary ingredients in most primers are silicone elastomers," says Dobos. "Elastomers are flexible polymers that can be pulled and stretched without breaking. They also have good adhesion to the skin and are responsible for the grip primers have on pigments." She explains that these polymers also scatter light, which is responsible for that beloved blurring effect.

    How should I choose a primer for mature skin?

    Gray recommends focusing on hydrating and smoothing ingredients. "Niacinamide is one of my favorite ingredients because it has numerous well-studied and proven benefits, including antioxidant activity, skin tone evening, and the ability to strengthen the skin barrier," Dobos adds. If your skin has gotten oilier with age, Dobos suggests looking for primers with mattifying ingredients. "Many primers contain highly absorptive powder like silica or non-pearlescent mica to maintain a more matte appearance."

    You'll also want to read the back of the bottle to avoid a few pesky ingredients that can exacerbate aging-related skin concerns. "Avoid formulations that contain stripping ingredients and unnecessary oils," Gray warns, as these can emphasize signs of mature skin. Opt for a lightweight primer that won't settle into fine lines or wrinkles, creating a smooth canvas for foundation and concealer.

    Meet the experts

    • Nick Barose, a makeup artist based in New York City
    • Kelly Dobos, a cosmetic chemist based in Cincinnati
    • Nydia Figueroa, a makeup artist based in New York City and New Jersey
    • Emily Gray, a makeup artist based in Nashville
    • Daniel Martin, a makeup artist and Tatcha’s global director of artistry based in New York City
    • Rebecca Restrepo, a makeup artist based in New York City
    • Lindsey Sanchez, a makeup artist based in Santa Paula, CA
    • Kayla Shantal, a makeup artist and hair extension expert based in Las Vegas
    • Kasey Spickard, a makeup artist based in New York City

    How we test and review products

    Before reviewing any makeup, we ask questions about a number of factors: What ingredients are in it? Does the brand offer a wide shade range inclusive of consumers with all skin tones and undertones? Is it safe for readers who have sensitive skin or wear contact lenses? Is it on the affordable side or more of a splurge? Is its packaging consciously designed or needlessly wasteful?

    For our review of the best primers for mature skin, we enlisted the help of multiple editors, writers, contributors, and makeup artists to review the products. This ensures our testing base spans different skin tones, genders, and dermatological conditions. We considered each product's performance across four primary categories: ingredients, wear and longevity, packaging, and inclusivity. For more on what's involved in our reporting, check out our complete reviews process and methodology page.

    Our staff and testers

    A beauty product is a personal purchase. You might be searching for a face cream to address persistent dryness or a new nail product to add to your Sunday self-care routine; you may simply be browsing around for the latest launches to hit the hair market. No matter what you seek or your individual needs and concerns, Allure wants to ensure that you love anything we recommend in our stories. We believe that having a diverse team of writers and editors—in addition to the wide range of outside testers and industry experts we regularly call upon—is essential to reaching that goal.

  • Zendaya Has Me Seriously Considering Red Eyeliner — See Photos

    Zendaya Has Me Seriously Considering Red Eyeliner — See Photos

    Zendaya posing in a white dress and diamond necklacesPhoto: Getty ImagesSave StorySave this storySave StorySave this story

    I think most makeup wearers can relate when I say my default eyeliner shade is always some take on black or brown. Maybe I'll do charcoal on a really wild day. I even have a couple of shades of blue and purple waiting in the wings in case I want to create colorful… well… wings. But red? I'm reluctant to put it lightly. Or at least I was until I saw Zendaya making it look like a new neutral.

    Zendaya has been unsurprisingly killing it with the beauty and fashion moments as she promotes her new movie, The Drama. And while she's been looking like a one-woman bridal fashion show for many of the appearances, she took a glamour-goth turn for the Rome premiere, wearing a black Giorgio Armani Privé gown previously worn by Cate Blanchett. (Something borrowed. Get it? Because the movie is about a wedding?)

    Zendaya posing in a black low cut dressPhoto: Getty Images

    The dress definitely called for some badass makeup, but instead of the bold, black liner you might expect, makeup artist Nikki Wolff went with red tones that really vibed with the burgundy backdrop at the event. Once you get past her bangs, very much intentionally styled by Ursula Stephen to fall in front of her eyes, Zendaya's lids are covered in a smoky wash of fiery color with a seamless, shimmery blend.

    Zendaya smiling with her hair in her eyesPhoto: Getty Images

    Even her lower waterline is given a bold stroke of red—a look I'm quite sure would make me appear to have not slept for days. But it works so well on Zendaya because a) she's Zendaya and b) it's not a true red. The coppery hue comes through as red in contrast with her eye color and glossy lips, outlined in a tan pencil.

    Zendaya smiling with her hair in her eyesPhoto: Getty Images

    While this may not be an everyday look for most of us (Zendaya included), it absolutely proves there's plenty of room to explore unexpected eyeliner colors—even the ones we previously assumed wouldn't be flattering.

  • 10 Best Products for Thinning Hair That Help Boost Volume and Density

    10 Best Products for Thinning Hair That Help Boost Volume and Density

    Image contains a collage of Allure editors surrounded by a collage of products for thinning hairCollage: Jemeria Davison; Source images: Courtesy of brandsSave StorySave this storySave StorySave this story

    Ever feel like your hair seemingly thinned overnight? One day, it’s full and bouncy; the next, it looks a little sparse around your hairline. The best products for thinning hair can help create immediate volume or promote healthier scalps and strands, even if genetics, hormones, or stress aren’t doing you any favors. “Hair thinning is a normal, shared experience that tends to happen as we mature, and hormones are a major factor,” says Carlos Vieira, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in Philadelphia. Lifestyle factors can contribute, too. “Stress and diet play a big role, and deficiencies in iron or copper can contribute to hair thinning,” says Sandra Petrut, a stylist at Maxine Salon in Chicago. “Chemical treatments, excessive heat, and even scalp conditions like contact dermatitis can also lead to hair loss.”

    Our Top Products for Thinning Hair

    • Best Overall: Living Proof Full Volume & Root-Lifting Spray, $34
    • Best for Hair Growth: Cécred Restoring Hair & Edge Drops, $56
    • Best Styling Foam: Bumble & Bumble Thickening High Drama Styling Foam, $35
    • Best Root Cover: Madison Reed The Great Cover Up Root Touch Up + Brow Filler, $36
    • Best Scalp Serum: Nécessaire The Scalp Serum, $48

    Actual hair regrowth takes time, a lot of patience, and a handful of science-proven ingredients, but volumizing hair products can work right away—giving you the illusion of fuller, thicker hair. “There’s no magic bullet for instantly thicker hair in a permanent sense, but styling products with the right ingredients can create the illusion of temporary volume,” says Jerome Lordet, founder and owner of Jerome Lordet Salon, based in New York City.

    Powder-based products will often use ingredients like silica and fibers, says Los Angeles-based cosmetic chemist Amanda Lam, while foams and mousses “rely more on hair fixatives—like PVP, acrylates copolymer, or VP/VA copolymer—to create volume.” And these days, a lot of new products on the market, “not only target thinning hair but also support overall hair health, helping hair grow stronger and healthier [over time],’ adds Lordet.

    Frequently Asked QuestionsAccordionItemContainerButtonLargeChevron

    • What is the best-proven product for thinning hair?
    • Can hair grow back after thinning?
    • What are the “Big 3” for thinning hair?
    • Meet the experts
    • How we test and review products
    • Our staff and testers

    Best Overall: Living Proof Full Volume & Root-Lifting Spray

    Living Proof Full Volume & Root-Lifting Spray in branded component on a light gray backgroundSave to wishlistSave to wishlist

    Living Proof

    Full Volume & Root-Lifting Spray

    $34

    Amazon

    $34

    Nordstrom

    $34

    Ulta Beauty

    Former Allure content director Kara McGrath applying the Living Proof Full Volume & Root-Lifting Spray

    Kara McGrath

    Why we love it: When Allure’s former content director Kara McGrath says this spray “completely changed her at-home blowouts,” you know it’s worth paying attention to. Designed for thinning or baby-fine hair, Living Proof’s Full Volume & Root-Lifting Spray brings the drama in the best way. It’s boosted by the brand’s thickening molecule, plus water-soluble resins that lift your roots without any crunch. Amaranth peptides help plump each follicle so your hair looks fuller, bouncier, and way more blowout-y. Add in a blend of volume-locking polymers, and you’re looking at bumped-up hair density that actually sticks around, too.

    Selfie of Kara McGrath before applying the Living Proof Full Volume  RootLifting Spray

    McGrath before applying the Living Proof Full Volume & Root-Lifting Spray

    Kara McGrathSelfie of Kara McGrath after applying the Living Proof Full Volume  RootLifting Spray

    McGrath after applying the Living Proof Full Volume & Root-Lifting Spray

    Kara McGrath

    Tester feedback from former content director Kara McGrath

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    “It added noticeable volume without making my fine hair feel crunchy or dry. I can still run my fingers through my roots when I use this stuff, which can’t be said of some other volumizers that give me similar oomphy results.” —Kara McGrath, former content director

    More to know

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    • Key ingredients: resin blend, peptides, mushroom extract, proprietary time-released styling technology
    • Fragrance-free: no

    Best for Hair Growth: Cécred Restoring Hair & Edge Drops

    Cécred Restoring Hair & Edge Drops in branded component on a light gray backgroundSave to wishlistSave to wishlist

    Cécred

    Restoring Hair & Edge Drops

    $56

    Ulta Beauty

    Allure editor in chief Jessica Cruel applying the Cécred Restoring Hair & Edge Drops

    Jessica Cruel

    Why we love it: Six years in the making, Cécred was built around the straightforward idea that stronger hair starts at the root, and great formulas should work across every texture. The brand’s Restoring Hair & Edge Drops focus on a concern many people with textured hair know well: thinning around the hairline, which is often caused by tension from tight styles. This lightweight, fast-absorbing serum is designed for fragile edges and thinning spots, helping hair look fuller and stronger over time. Omer Ibrahim, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in Chicago, says the peptides in the formula show promising evidence for supporting hair growth, while Brattleboro, Vermont-based cosmetic chemist Sherry Backman notes they may help influence follicle signaling and encourage thicker strands.

    Biotin and keratin help reinforce the hair shaft to reduce breakage, while ginger extract and fermented rice proteins have been known to support a healthier scalp environment. A subtle sandalwood-musk scent and a refreshing hint of peppermint oil give it a light, cooling feel that makes it feel a little more like self-care.

    Tester feedback from editor in chief Jessica Cruel

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    “A year ago, I started to notice how my edges seemed to snap with even the slightest slick back. So, I put away the edge brush and picked up these Cécred Restoring Hair & Edge Drops. I'm on my second bottle! It feels like a serum, not so watery that my natural hair reverts, but not too oily either. The smell is divine, and after months of using it, I feel my hairline has become more resilient.” —Jessica Cruel, editor in chief

    More to know

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    • Key ingredients: bioactive keratin ferment, biopeptide-5, biotin, fermented rice powder, ginger extract, rose extract
    • Fragrance-free: no

    Best Shampoo and Conditioner: Harklinikken Fortifying Shampoo and Daily Conditioner

    Harklinikken Fortifying Shampoo pump bottle of pale yellow shampoo on light gray backgroundSave to wishlistSave to wishlist

    Harklinikken

    Fortifying Shampoo

    $47

    Amazon

    Harklinikken Daily Conditioner white pump bottle on light gray backgroundSave to wishlistSave to wishlist

    Harklinikken

    Daily Conditioner

    $55

    Amazon

    Why we love it: Balancing your scalp’s pH won’t magically reverse thinning or spark brand-new growth, but it does help create the kind of environment where hair can thrive. Think of it like soil for a plant: When the foundation is healthy and stable, follicles have a better shot at doing their job and producing stronger strands. Keeping the scalp slightly acidic also supports the skin barrier, helps calm irritation, and keeps the hair cuticle smoother—small factors that add up to hair that looks and feels healthier over time.

    Harklinikken’s Fortifying Shampoo focuses on strengthening while it cleans, using a blend of aloe vera and glycosides to gently lift away buildup without stripping your scalp of its natural oils. The formula pairs cleansing agents with hydrating ingredients like glycerin, betaine, and panthenol. Niacinamide adds a subtle scalp-care element, supporting a healthier environment for hair over time. Follow with the Daily Conditioner, which hydrates with glycerin, another dose of soothing aloe, and avocado oil to smooth strands while keeping them light and bouncy. The silicone-free formula focuses moisture on the lengths, so fine or thinning hair stays soft and airy rather than weighed down.

    Senior editor Jesa Marie Calaor before applying the Harklinikken Balancing Shampoo and Daily Conditioner

    Allure senior beauty editor Jesa Marie Calaor before applying the Harklinikken Fortifying Shampoo and Daily Conditioner

    Jesa Marie CalaorCalaor after applying the Harklinikken Balancing Shampoo and Daily Conditioner

    Calaor after applying the Harklinikken Fortifying Shampoo and Daily Conditioner

    Jesa Marie Calaor

    Tester feedback from senior beauty editor Jesa Marie Calaor

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    “The day I started using Harklinikken's Fortifying Shampoo and Daily Conditioner was the day I realized I might have been settling for less from my hair products. The shampoo thoroughly cleanses without stripping my strands, while the conditioner effortlessly detangles as I work it through the lengths of my hair. The latter feels lighter than some of my other conditioners, but that doesn't mean it skimps out on the moisture. Once dry, my hair feels soft without that filmy or oily residue some conditioners leave behind. My only gripe is that I wish the bottles were bigger—I have such long hair and go through them quickly.” —Jesa Marie Calaor, senior beauty editor

    More to know

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    • Key ingredients: shampoo: aloe, niacinamide, glycerin, betaine, panthenol; conditioner: glycerin, aloe, avocado oil, lactic acid
    • Fragrance-free: yes

    Best Hair Oil: Marc Anthony Strictly Curls Strength & Shine Supreme Oil

    Marc Anthony Strictly Curls Strength & Shine Supreme Oil in branded component on a light gray backgroundSave to wishlistSave to wishlist

    Marc Anthony

    Strictly Curls Strength & Shine Supreme Oil

    $10 $9 (10% off)

    Amazon

    $9

    Walmart

    Why we love it: Despite the name, you don’t actually need curls to appreciate Marc Anthony’s Strictly Curls Strength & Shine Supreme Oil. But if you have curls that tend to snap before reaching their full length, this one is especially helpful. This lightweight oil blend is packed with nourishing oils like castor, coconut, almond, and jojoba, which moisturize strands, smooth frizz, and boost shine without leaving hair greasy. Rosemary extract and biotin support stronger-looking hair, while antioxidant-rich ingredients like rice bran, grapeseed, and vitamin E help defend against environmental stressors. Botanical extracts—including aloe, chamomile, and nettle—add an extra layer of conditioning for both the hair and scalp. The texture is surprisingly nongreasy, so a few drops can tame flyaways, add slip, or revive curls between wash days.

    Associate beauty editor Annie BlayTettey before applying the Marc Anthony Strictly Curls Strength  Shine Supreme Oil

    Allure associate beauty editor Annie Blay-Tettey before applying the Marc Anthony Strictly Curls Strength & Shine Supreme Oil

    Annie Blay-TetteyBlayTettey after applying the Marc Anthony Strictly Curls Strength  Shine Supreme Oil

    Blay-Tettey after applying the Marc Anthony Strictly Curls Strength & Shine Supreme Oil

    Annie Blay-Tettey

    Tester feedback from associate beauty editor Annie Blay-Tettey

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    "I try not to overthink hair oils. Ideally, I just want something that seals moisture into my strands and scalp without leaving it greasy. This oil does just that. I love the nozzle tip which makes it especially easy to apply when I have a protective style in." —Annie Blay-Tettey, associate beauty editor

    More to know

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    • Key ingredients: castor, coconut, almond, and jojoba oils, rosemary, biotin, rice bran, grapeseed, vitamin E
    • Fragrance-free: no

    Best Styling Foam: Bumble & Bumble Thickening High Drama Styling Foam

    Bumble & Bumble Thickening High Drama Styling Foam in branded component on a light gray backgroundSave to wishlistSave to wishlist

    Bumble and Bumble

    Thickening High Drama Styling Foam

    $35

    Ulta Beauty

    Allure contributing commerce writer Christa Joanna Lee applying the Bumble & Bumble Thickening High Drama Styling Foam

    Christa Joanna Lee

    Why we love it: Thickening. High. Drama. Three words that sound pretty good if your hair likes to fall flat. Bumble and Bumble’s Thickening High Drama Styling Foam gives fine or thinning hair a noticeable lift without veering into crunchy, helmet-hair territory. The airy foam uses the brand’s Strand-Plumping Technology to temporarily expand each strand, helping hair look fuller and more voluminous. Rice peptides add instant body and thickness, while an antioxidant-rich blend with ginger root and resveratrol helps support a healthier scalp environment and defend against external stressors. It also features caffeine, which is a helpful ingredient in thinning-hair products because it can help counter some of the hormonal factors that contribute to hair loss and support the follicles where hair growth begins, says Dr. Vieira. It even doubles as a heat protectant, making it especially handy before a blowout.

    Lee before applying the Bumble  Bumble Thickening High Drama Styling Foam

    Lee before applying the Bumble & Bumble Thickening High Drama Styling Foam

    Christa Joanna LeeLee after applying the Bumble  Bumble Thickening High Drama Styling Foam

    Lee after applying the Bumble & Bumble Thickening High Drama Styling Foam

    Christa Joanna Lee

    Tester feedback from contributing commerce writer Christa Joanna Lee

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    “My hair probably doesn’t look like it’s thinning, but I had at least twice as much of it seven years ago, pre-kids. Lately, I’ve been shedding in clumps, so I’m doing everything I can to make what’s left look as full as possible. The first time I used Bumble & Bumble’s Thickening High Drama Styling Foam, my hair was a little too air-dried and it didn't distribute as properly as it should—but on properly damp hair (as directed), it’s a different story. As I blow-dry, it gives just enough grip with my round brush to really lift at the roots and build volume where I need it most. There’s a slight hold, too, so the fullness sticks around until my next wash.” —Christa Joanna Lee, contributing commerce writer

    More to know

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    • Key ingredients: rice peptides, caffeine, ginger root, resveratrol
    • Fragrance-free: no

    Best Root Cover: Madison Reed The Great Cover Up Root Touch Up + Brow Filler

    Madison Reed The Great Cover Up Root Touch Up + Brow Filler in branded component on a light gray backgroundSave to wishlistSave to wishlist

    Madison Reed

    The Great Cover Up Root Touch Up + Brow Filler

    $36

    Amazon

    $36

    Ulta Beauty

    Allure senior commerce director Shanna Shipin applying the Madison Reed The Great Cover Up Root Touch Up + Brow Filler in Ombra Dark Brown

    Shanna Shipin

    Why we love it: Even though Madison Reed The Great Cover Up Root Touch Up + Brow Filler is technically designed to conceal gray roots and fill in brows, this 2024 Best of Beauty Award winner can also double as makeup, concealing areas where you have sparse hair growth (like around the temples and along the hairline). Once you apply it with the included brush (or spoolie, if you want to be extra-precise), it won't budge—and can even withstand rain and sweat. It also comes in six shades, so most people can find a passable match—and no one will be the wiser.

    Selfie of Shanna Shipin before applying the Madison Reed The Great Cover Up Root Touch Up  Brow Filler

    Shipin before applying the Madison Reed The Great Cover Up Root Touch Up + Brow Filler in Ombra Dark Brown

    Shanna ShipinSelfie of Shanna Shipin after applying the Madison Reed The Great Cover Up Root Touch Up  Brow Filler

    Shipin after applying the Madison Reed The Great Cover Up Root Touch Up + Brow Filler in Ombra Dark Brown

    Shanna Shipin

    Tester feedback from senior commerce director Shanna Shipin

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    "After both of my pregnancies, I dealt with a horrifying amount of hair loss, and nothing worked better for me than simply applying hair makeup to my scalp to cover up the bald spots. My biggest area of concern was my hairline, which receded so far back that every time I looked in the mirror, my face just appeared off. I used this Madison Reed cover-up for both of my fourth trimesters, and loved how easy it was to powder a hairline back onto my scalp. The product has great staying powder, and easily comes out in the shower (I'd suggest a detox shampoo to really lift it out of your roots). I love that the brush helps seamlessly blend the powder into my scalp, and that it comes with a really great brow brush and spoolie to tackle your brows at the same time!" —Shanna Shipin, senior commerce director

    More to know

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    • Key ingredients: keratin, argan oil, ginseng root extract
    • Fragrance-free: yes

    Best Scalp Serum: Nécessaire The Scalp Serum

    Nécessaire The Scalp Serum in branded component on a light gray backgroundSave to wishlistSave to wishlist

    Nécessaire

    The Scalp Serum

    $48

    Amazon

    $48

    Sephora

    McGrath applying the Nécessaire The Scalp Serum

    Kara McGrath

    Why we love it: If your part’s looking wider or your ponytail feels a little wimpy, Nécessaire’s The Scalp Serum might be your new, low-maintenance fix. This lightweight, fragrance-free formula features 5% capixyl—a blend of red clover extract and a peptide that helps reduce shedding and promote thicker-looking strands. “Some studies have shown it can be just as effective as 3% minoxidil,” New York City-based board-certified dermatologist Michelle Henry, MD, told Allure. But unlike minoxidil, it carries a lower risk of irritation or unwanted facial hair, making it a smart choice for sensitive scalps. It’s also approved by the National Eczema Association, which speaks to how gentle it is. To top it off, the serum includes hyaluronic acid, biotin, and niacinamide to keep your scalp calm, hydrated, and thriving, so your hair can live its best, fullest life.

    McGrath before applying the Ncessaire The Scalp Serum

    McGrath before applying the Nécessaire The Scalp Serum

    Kara McGrathMcGrath after applying the Ncessaire The Scalp Serum

    McGrath after applying the Nécessaire The Scalp Serum for four months

    Kara McGrath

    Tester feedback from McGrath

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    “[At first,] I did not have high hopes. But then, several months in, my hair started to feel…different. It took two hands to hold it all. My ponytails started to more closely resemble that of the equines they’re named for: thick (for me), shiny, and bouncy. The length, which had previously seemed to tap out just below my collarbones, was reaching mid-boob territory.” —Kara McGrath, former content director

    More to know

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    • Key ingredients: capixyl, hyaluronic acid, biotin, niacinamide
    • Fragrance-free: yes

    Best Mask: Ryo Damage Care & Nourishing Treatment

    Ryo Damage Care & Nourishing Treatment in branded tube component on a light gray backgroundSave to wishlistSave to wishlist

    Ryo

    Damage Care & Nourishing Treatment

    $19

    Amazon

    $23

    Yesstyle

    Why we love it: For those new to K-beauty hair care, it’s all about healthy hair, starting with the scalp. Take Ryo’s Damage Care & Nourishing Treatment. While it smooths and revives damaged strands with nourishing ingredients like pomegranate and camellia oil extracts, the real focus is on what’s happening at the root. Korean ginseng extract and caffeine help support a healthier scalp environment, while rice from Yeoju—an especially nutrient-dense variety grown in mineral-rich soil—adds softness and strength from the root through the lengths. Worried about applying a rich mask near the scalp? “Most masks can clog follicles, but Ryo is designed to touch the scalp,” says Cherin Choi, a hairstylist and colorist based in Los Angeles, noting that it helps lift weak hair while keeping the scalp balanced.

    More to know

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    • Key ingredients: pomegranate extract, camellia oil, rice, ginseng, caffeine
    • Fragrance-free: no

    Best for Volume: Oribe Maximista Thickening Spray

    Oribe Maximista Thickening Spray in branded component on a light gray backgroundSave to wishlistSave to wishlist

    Oribe

    Maximista Thickening Spray

    $42

    Amazon

    $42

    Nordstrom

    Why we love it: If you’re after maximum volume and thickness, look no further than Oribe—the brand stylists swear by for big, bouncy blowouts and that unmistakable luxury finish—with its Maximista Thickening Spray. It’s packed with thickening copolymers to pump up the volume and lock it in, plus amino acids to keep hair strong and moisturized. And because Oribe always goes the extra mile, its signature complex protects against environmental stressors, while built-in heat protection keeps your hair safe from hot tools. If your thinning hair is also prone to frizz, the cetrimonium chloride in this spray provides conditioning and anti-static powers—making it especially helpful for curly hair.

    More to know

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    • Key ingredients: amino acids, thickening copolymers, cetrimonium chloride
    • Fragrance-free: no

    Best Mousse: R+Co Rodeo Star Thickening Style Foam

    R+Co Rodeo Star Thickening Mousse in branded component on a light gray backgroundSave to wishlistSave to wishlist

    R+Co

    Rodeo Star Thickening Style Foam

    $38

    Amazon

    $38

    Dermstore

    Why we love it: Creating voluminous hair starts in the shower, but to keep that full, bouncy look going, the right styling products are key, like R+Co Rodeo Star Thickening Style Foam. “This styling foam delivers quick, nonsticky fullness with a soft, touchable feel,” says Petrut. It incorporates skin care-inspired ingredients, like vitamin E to deeply condition hair, kiwi fruit extract to help maintain moisture balance, and aloe vera leaf extract to minimize breakage and add shine, to give hair a fuller, bouncier look. If bold volume is what you’re after, this is your go-to.

    More to know

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    • Key ingredients: vitamin E, kiwi fruit extract, aloe leaf extract
    • Fragrance-free: no

    Frequently asked questions

    What is the best-proven product for thinning hair?

    If you’re experiencing hair thinning, the right products can make a big difference. The best approach focuses on hair growth, scalp health, and follicle strength. “Minoxidil is the most tried-and-true ingredient for hair loss and thinning,” says Dr. Mislankar. (You might recognize it as the main ingredient in Rogaine, which is a minoxidil foam.)

    Other ingredients like “biotin, caffeine, rosemary oil, and niacinamide have also been shown to promote the temporary appearance of hair thickness,” says Jae-Manuel Cardenas, a New York City-based hairstylist, who recommends root lifters, volumizing products, and other hairstyle formulas to temporarily deliver fuller hair.

    Hair-growth supplements are a dime a dozen, but dermatologists don’t agree on how much they can really help. And since they can come with side effects, it’s important to talk to your doctor first.

    Can hair grow back after thinning?

    Hair can grow back after thinning, but it depends on the cause. “In some cases, like telogen effluvium—temporary hair shedding caused by stress, illness, or hormonal changes—hair often grows back on its own with time and patience,” says Dr. Mislankar. (For instance, minoxidil won’t do a whole lot for postpartum hair loss, which is caused by hormone changes during and after pregnancy.)

    However, if thinning is due to androgenetic alopecia (hereditary hair loss, or female-pattern hair loss), long-term treatments like medications or procedures are usually needed to maintain new growth. “While waiting for hair to regrow, avoiding excessive heat styling or harsh chemicals helps prevent further damage. Volumizing shampoos, leave-in treatments, and proper styling techniques can also make hair appear fuller in the meantime,” she says.

    What are the “Big 3” for thinning hair?

    The big three for thinning hair are minoxidil, finasteride, and ketoconazole. “They each play a special part in encouraging hair growth. Minoxidil works by widening blood vessels in your scalp, boosting circulation so more nutrients reach your hair follicles—helping to spark new growth and keep shedding in check. Finasteride blocks an enzyme called 5-alpha reductase—the one that turns testosterone into DHT (a.k.a. the hormone that makes hair follicles shrink and leads to thinning). Less DHT means your follicles stay active longer, helping to keep your hair where it belongs. Ketoconazole isn’t just for fighting fungus—it also helps mitigate scalp inflammation, one of the culprits behind hair loss. Research suggests it has mild anti-androgenic properties, meaning it may help minimize DHT’s impact on hair follicles,” says Dr. Mislankar. Together, they can create the ideal foundation for new hair growth.

    Meet the experts

    • Sherry Backman, a cosmetic chemist based in Brattleboro, Vermont
    • Jae-Manuel Cardenas, a senior hairstylist at Ollin Salon NYC by Johnny Ramirez, based in New York City
    • Cherin Choi, a hairstylist and colorist based in Los Angeles
    • Michelle Henry, MD, a board-certified dermatologist and founder of Skin & Aesthetic Surgery of Manhattan, based in New York City
    • Omer Ibrahim, MD, a board-certified dermatologist and founder of Salmalita Cosmetics, based in Chicago
    • Jerome Lordet, founder and owner of Jerome Lordet Salon, based in New York City
    • Sanda Petrut, a stylist at Maxine Salon in Chicago
    • Carlos Vieira, a board-certified dermatologist at The Dermatology Specialists based in Philadelphia

    How we test and review products

    We always enlist a range of testers for our makeup vertical, but hair-care products and tools are another story. While there are certainly products that can be used across different hair textures, lengths, curl patterns, thicknesses, colors (natural and unnatural), and needs, hair products are often created with specific consumers in mind. Many are created in order to address a concern (dandruff, breakage, brittleness) or to work most effectively for a specific hair type (4C curls, wavy hair, gray hair). You wouldn’t want to pick up a purple shampoo that’s only been reviewed by someone with, say, auburn hair, or a diffuser that’s never been tested by anyone with curls—right?

    For our review of the best products for thinning hair, we enlisted the help of multiple editors, writers, contributors, and hair experts—many of whom want shinier, healthier-looking hair. Testers considered performance across four primary categories: efficacy, texture and experience, fragrance, and packaging. For more on what's involved in our reporting, check out our complete reviews process and methodology page.

    Our staff and testers

    A beauty product is a personal purchase. You might be searching for a face cream to address persistent dryness or a new nail product to add to your Sunday self-care routine; you may simply be browsing around for the latest launches to hit the hair market. No matter what you seek or your individual needs and concerns, Allure wants to ensure that you love anything we recommend in our stories. We believe that having a diverse team of writers and editors—in addition to the wide range of outside testers and industry experts we regularly call upon—is essential to reaching that goal.

    After all, can we really say a skin-care product is the "best" for people over 50 if the only testers we've solicited opinions from folks who have yet to hit 30? Can we honestly deem a high-end diffuser worthy of your hard-earned cash if it’s never been tested on curls? We're proud that our staff spans a wide range of ages, skin tones, hair textures, genders, and backgrounds, which means that we are able to fairly assess any beauty product that comes into the beauty closet.

  • 11 Best Medicube Skin-Care Products for Smoother, Clearer Skin

    11 Best Medicube Skin-Care Products for Smoother, Clearer Skin

    Image contains Allure editors with their favorite Medicube products surrounded by a collage of the top Medicube productsCollage: Jemeria Davison; Source images: Courtesy of Allure editors and brandsSave StorySave this storySave StorySave this story

    What stands out most about the best Medicube products is how they make K-beauty skin care feel simple, effective, and genuinely approachable—both in routine and in price. Many fans have streamlined their routines down to a handful of hero products that deliver that same glass-skin glow you’d expect from a full 10-step lineup (a major win for anyone short on time). For those with dry or sensitive skin, the brand’s formulas are especially appealing—they multitask without overwhelming the skin barrier.

    Medicube relies on ingredients practically synonymous with Korean skin care. You’ll find polydeoxyribonucleotides (PDRN), derived from salmon DNA, to help support skin renewal and improve the appearance of uneven tone. Many formulas also feature Centella asiatica (a.k.a. cica), a go-to for soothing. “Sensitive skin is a very common skin type in Korea due to high pollution levels," says Charlotte Cho, cofounder of K-beauty retailer Soko Glam based in New York City. “As a result, sensitive-skin friendly ingredients, such as cica, are frequently seen in Korean beauty products to calm inflammation, redness, and irritated skin.”

    Our Top Medicube Products

    • No Ghosting: No Cast Just Glow Collagen Sunscreen, $22 $15
    • Pretty in Pink: Pink Peptide Serum, $22 $15
    • Set the Tone: Collagen Milk Toning Wrapping Mask, $22 $15
    • Pore Over This: Zero Pore Pads, $31 $15
    • R You Glowing Yet?: Age-R Booster Pro, $228 $132
    • Bursting Bounce: PDRN Pink Collagen Capsule Cream, $22 $16

    Beyond ingredients, Medicube’s textures are part of the appeal: Think foam serums that feel like whipped bubbles and collagen creams that burst on contact, releasing pockets of hydration that melt right into skin. You'll find a routine that feels as enjoyable as it is effective.

    R You Glowing Yet?: Age-R Booster Pro

    Medicube Age-R Booster Pro in branded component on a light gray backgroundSave to wishlistSave to wishlist

    Medicube

    Age-R Booster Pro

    $220

    Amazon

    Allure editor in chief Jessica Cruel using the Medicube Age-R Booster Pro

    Jessica Cruel

    Why it's worth it: Most microcurrent devices make big promises, but then lose you somewhere between all the extra attachments and the hunt for the right conductive gel. It’s why so many end up buried in a drawer, forgotten after just a few uses. Medicube’s Age-R Booster Pro stands out by keeping this streamlined (just the device and your go-to serum). But don’t confuse simple for basic. It delivers on versatility with four built-in modes: Booster Mode (electroporation) to enhance product absorption, MC Mode (microcurrent) to target fine lines, Derma Shot Mode (EMS) to firm and contour, and Air Shot Mode to support pore elasticity.

    Tester feedback from editor in chief Jessica Cruel

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    "I must say: This is the most powerful device I have ever used. Setting three out of five had my muscles twitching (in a good way). I also like that it has a screen that tracks the time, so I don't have to keep track of beeps. I find the user experience is better than many microcurrent devices I've used in the past.” —Jessica Cruel, editor in chief

    Jessica has normal skin and has been using the Medicube Age-R Booster Pro once a month for six months.

    Product highlights

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    • Four modes (Booster Mode: Electroporation, MC Mode: Microcurrent, Derma Shot Mode, and Air Shot Mode: Electric Needles)
    • Five intensity levels each
    • Medicube AGE-R App compatibility
    • USB-C charging cable

    How the brand tested this product's efficacy

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    Medicube conducted clinical studies for all four modes used in combination with skin-care products and lists these statistics on its Singaporean site:

    • Forehead volume: improved by 35.9% after 2 weeks of use
    • Smile lines: improved by 24.2% after 2 weeks of use
    • Between the brows (11s): Improved by 16.1% after 2 weeks of use
    • Crow's feet: improved by 12.6% after 2 weeks of use
    • Neck lines: improved by 11.8% after 2 weeks of use
    • Skin density: improved by 5.46% after 2 weeks of use

    Burst of Radiance: Collagen Glow Bubble Serum

    Medicube Collagen Glow Bubble Serum peach bottle with rose gold cap on light gray backgroundSave to wishlistSave to wishlist

    Medicube

    Collagen Glow Bubble Serum

    $22 $20 (9% off)

    Amazon

    Why it's worth it: Korean skin-care brands are known for their sensorial textures, and the Collagen Glow Bubble Serum has to be one of the most fun we’ve ever tried. The airy mousse has a fluffy, cloud-like texture—almost reminiscent of a light shaving foam—as it melts into the skin. Beyond the playful application, it delivers real benefits for all skin types, especially mature skin: Collagen and elastin help support firmness and bounce while hyaluronic acid draws in hydration to keep skin looking plump and dewy. True to its name, this “bubble serum” is featherlight yet deeply hydrating, though our tester notes you might notice a slight tackiness for a minute or two as it settles in.

    Allure contributing commerce writer Christa Joanna Lee applying the Medicube Collagen Glow Bubble Serum

    Christa Joanna LeeLee after applying the Medicube Collagen Glow Bubble Serum

    Lee after applying the Medicube Collagen Glow Bubble Serum

    Christa Joanna Lee

    ​​Tester feedback from contributing commerce writer Christa Joanna Lee

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    “This serum has a light, foamy texture that sits somewhere between a gel and a mousse—it’s a little unusual at first, but easy to get used to. Once it settles, it leaves an ever-so-slight tacky finish that works well during the day, giving makeup something to grip onto so it applies more evenly.” —Christa Joanna Lee, contributing commerce writer

    More to know

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    • Key ingredients: collagen, elastin, hyaluronic acid
    • Fragrance-free: no

    No Ghosting: No Cast Just Glow Collagen Sunscreen

    Medicube No Cast Just Glow Collagen Sunscreen SPF 50 in branded tube component on a light gray backgroundSave to wishlistSave to wishlist

    Medicube

    No Cast Just Glow Collagen Sunscreen

    $22 $19 (14% off)

    Amazon

    Why it's worth it: K-beauty sunscreens are always trying to outdo themselves—who can make the most lightweight, zero-white cast, skin-care-packed formula yet? So when Allure’s resident K-beauty expert said she found the “glowiest sunscreen ever,” our ears perked up. If dull, tired-looking skin is the concern, Medicube’s No Cast Just Glow Collagen Sunscreen SPF 50 makes a strong case for itself. The chemical formula layers protection with a nourishing, skin-care-forward lineup: Niacinamide helps visibly brighten and even tone, while hyaluronic acid pulls in hydration so skin looks plumper and fresher, never greasy. Collagen and peptides add that softly cushioned, lit-from-within finish, and soothing Centella asiatica keeps skin calm and comfortable.

    Allure commerce editor Sarah Han applying the Medicube No Cast Just Glow Collagen Sunscreen

    Sarah HanHan after applying the Medicube No Cast Just Glow Collagen Sunscreen

    Han after applying the Medicube No Cast Just Glow Collagen Sunscreen

    Sarah Han

    Allure managing editor Alessandra Foresto applying the Medicube No Cast Just Glow Collagen Sunscreen

    A selfie of Allure managing editor Alessandra Foresto after applying the Medicube No Cast Just Glow Collagen Sunscreen

    Foresto after applying the Medicube No Cast Just Glow Collagen Sunscreen

    Alessandra Foresto

    Tester feedback from commerce editor Sarah Han

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    “Medicube was not lying about the 'No Cast, Just Glow' name. This is one of the glowest, most brightening sunscreens I've ever tried, and boy, does my dried-out winter skin appreciate it. (Full disclosure: I don't think my combo skin could handle this during the warmer months, lest I want to venture straight into greasy, not glowy, territory.) It does take a beat to fully rub in—granted, I go a little heavy on application, but better to overdo it than…underdo it—but once you do, there's nary a trace! The ingredients are quite familiar to the average skin-care lover, but something about this lineup—niacinamide, cica, peptides, and collagen—ups the dewy ante by a lot, and I'm glad for it. I can easily skip my a.m. moisturizer and it also doubles as a hydrating primer. Win, win, and win." —Sarah Han, commerce editor

    Tester feedback from managing editor Alessandra Foresto

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    “Like a good beauty editor, sunscreen is not a step I skip even on the darkest, rainiest days. I like this Medicube SPF because it's light and absorbs quickly but still feels moisturizing, plus it has a very subtle radiant finish. Unlike other sunscreens, it doesn't leave a white cast behind and it also doesn't feel thick and sticky on my face. But, most importantly for me, it does not make my makeup pill. I use it as the last step in my moisturizing routine every morning, after a hyaluronic acid serum and a moisturizing cream, and before concealer and foundation.” —Alessandra Foresto, managing editor

    More to know

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    • Sunscreen type: chemical
    • Key ingredients: 13.6% homosalate, 9% octocrylene, 4.5% octisalate, 2.7% avobenzone, hyaluronic acid, niacinamide, ceramides, collagen, peptides, Centella asiatica
    • Fragrance-free: yes

    Very A-peel-ing: Collagen Wrapping Mask

    Medicube Collagen Night Wrapping Mask in branded tube component on a light gray backgroundSave to wishlistSave to wishlist

    Medicube

    Collagen Wrapping Mask

    $19

    Amazon

    Allure features director Dianna Mazzone Singh peeling off the Medicube Collagen Night Wrapping Mask

    Dianna Singh

    Why it's worth it: No wonder Medicube’s Collagen Wrapping Mask has gone viral—there aren’t many skin-care products that deliver that kind of instant gratification. Still, the appeal goes beyond the peel. Unlike traditional peel-off masks that focus on quick, surface-level results, this one acts more like an overnight cocoon, sealing in hydration while you sleep before lifting away in the morning. The thick, elastic texture sets into a flexible film that feels cushioning rather than tight.

    Inside, it’s packed with familiar favorites: collagen, hyaluronic acid, and ceramides to help skin look plumper and hydrated, plus niacinamide to boost glow and adenosine to smooth the look of fine lines. A few less-expected additions—like agave stem extract and chlorella (a nutrient-rich algae)—support skin resilience, so you wake up looking refreshed, not just temporarily glazed.

    Tester feedback from features director Dianna Singh

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    "The way my skin looks with a layer of Medicube Collagen Night Wrapping Mask is exactly how I want my skin to look without it: glassy, glowy, and clear. And with each overnight—yes, overnight—application of its niacinamide- and hyaluronic acid-infused formula, I get a little bit closer to that goal. I've been using it once or twice a week and never cease to be delighted by the satisfaction of peeling it away in the morning." —Dianna Singh, features director

    More to know

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    • Mask type: peel-off mask
    • Key ingredients: hyaluronic acid, niacinamide, glycerin, vitamin E, ceramide Np, collagen extract

    Set the Tone: Collagen Milk Toning Wrapping Mask

    Medicube Collagen Milk Toning Wrapping Mask in branded tube component on a light gray backgroundSave to wishlistSave to wishlist

    Medicube

    Collagen Milk Toning Wrapping Mask

    $22 $19 (14% off)

    Amazon

    Han applying the Medicube Collagen Milk Toning Wrapping Mask

    Sarah Han

    Why it’s worth it: Unlike the original Collagen Wrapping Mask, which stays put overnight, the Collagen Milk Toning Wrapping Mask gets to work in just 20 minutes. And if you’ve ever browsed beauty shelves in Seoul, you’ve likely seen the phrase “tone-up” everywhere—no, it doesn’t relate to toner. It’s actually pretty literal, referring to formulas that help visibly brighten, even out, and clarify your overall skin tone.

    This particular peel-off mask creates that effect with niacinamide, alpha-arbutin, and glutathione to target dullness and discoloration on the spot, while collagen water and collagen amino acids add a subtle, bouncy plumpness. Milk protein extract gives skin that softly blurred finish, and ceramides, Centella asiatica, and panthenol round things out with barrier support. As it sets, the formula forms a flexible, opaque wrapping layer that seals everything in.

    Image may contain Face Head Person Photography Portrait Happy Smile Body Part and Mouth

    Han before applying the Medicube Collagen Milk Toning Wrapping Mask

    Image may contain Head Person Face Adult Photography Portrait Happy Smile Cosmetics Lipstick and Skin

    Han after applying the Medicube Collagen Milk Toning Wrapping Mask

    Tester feedback from Han

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    “Nothing against overnight masks, but this tosser-and-turner simply doesn't mesh with that sort of wear time. Medicube's most viral collagen mask may be the overnight formula but I jumped for joy when I heard the K-beauty brand launched a 20-minute milky version. It is a little sticky when applying (to be expected, though), but easy to slather on a thick layer—crucial to a seamless peel-off. (It's ok if said layer isn't super even!) After time is up and I remove the mask, my skin definitely looks a bit brighter (thanks niacinamide), though I'm not sure about the firming claims. I'll leave that task to my heavier-duty, leave-on serums. All in all, it's a solid mask I can see myself using once a week.” —Sarah Han, commerce editor

    More to know

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    • Key ingredients: niacinamide, alpha-arbutin, glutathione, collagen water, collagen amino acids, ceramides, Centella asiatica, panthenol
    • Fragrance-free: yes

    Pretty in Pink: Pink Peptide Serum

    Medicube PDRN Pink Peptide Serum in branded dropper component on a light gray backgroundSave to wishlistSave to wishlist

    Medicube

    Pink Peptide Serum

    $22 $19 (14% off)

    Amazon

    Allure video producer Lauren Alberti applying the Medicube Pink Peptide Serum

    Lauren Alberti

    Why it's worth it: This won’t be the first time you’ll hear about PDRN. It works so well because these topical salmon DNA derivatives are “very similar to human DNA and can help with skin quality, luminosity, and texture,” New York City-based board-certified plastic surgeon Jennifer Levine, MD, told Allure. The supporting players do their part, too: Niacinamide helps brighten and refine, while adenosine and a multi-peptide blend (including copper peptides) lend a firmer, healthier-looking finish. Hydrators like glycerin and sodium hyaluronate keep things comfortably plump, and a mix of botanical extracts—rose, turmeric, holy basil—adds a calming layer.

    Tester feedback from video producer Lauren Alberti

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    “I've been using this product for the last few months as part of my never-ending battle against dry skin. After a few uses, I could see that this was definitely contributing to more hydrated-looking skin, helping me achieve that dewy glow. I typically use it with the Medicube Booster Pro to really get the product into my pores.” —Lauren Alberti, video producer

    More to know

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    • Key ingredients: salmon PDRN, niacinamide, adenosine, peptides, glycerin, sodium hyaluronate, rose, turmeric, holy basil
    • Fragrance-free: no

    Pink Drink: PDRN Pink Vita Coating Sheet Mask

    Medicube PDRN Pink Vita Coating Sheet Mask pink face mask sachets on light gray backgroundSave to wishlistSave to wishlist

    Medicube

    PDRN Pink Vita Coating Sheet Mask

    $22 $20 (9% off)

    Amazon

    Why it's worth it: In this face mask, PDRN not only helps repair a compromised skin barrier but also works to fade dark spots and hyperpigmentation, revealing a brighter, healthier-looking complexion over time. It’s also infused with collagen and pink vitamin B12 to help soften the look of fine lines, restore elasticity, and refine overall skin texture. The sheet itself hits that ideal middle ground: not so flimsy that it bunches or folds in on itself, but not so thick that it feels stiff or prone to slipping. It hugs the contours of your face, stays in place without constant adjusting, and makes the whole experience feel comfortable, soothing, and—yes—like a true self-care moment.

    Lee applying the Medicube PDRN Pink Vita Coating Sheet Mask

    Christa Joanna LeeLee after applying the Medicube PDRN Pink Vita Coating Sheet Mask

    Lee after applying the Medicube PDRN Pink Vita Coating Sheet Mask

    Christa Joanna Lee

    Tester feedback from Lee

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    “I’ve tried enough sheet masks to know that if it won’t stay put, I’m already annoyed. This one is so clingy in the best way. I usually mask while I’m WFH, sitting upright at my desk, so that alone is a huge win. It also has this consistently cool, refreshing feel, even in the warmer months. Paired with the formula, it leaves my skin feeling really comforted and calm afterward.” —Christa Lee, contributing commerce writer

    More to know

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    • Key ingredients: salmon PDRN, collagen, pink vitamin B12
    • Fragrance-free: no

    Pore Over This: Zero Pore Pads

    Medicube Zero Pore Pads 2.0 in branded tub component on a light gray backgroundSave to wishlistSave to wishlist

    Medicube

    Zero Pore Pads

    $31 $19 (39% off)

    Amazon

    Allure associate social media manager Katie Gunderman applying the Medicube Zero Pore Pads

    Katie Gunderman

    Why it’s worth it: No offense to the classic cotton pad you soak yourself with, but it never quite hits the same, especially if you have acne-prone skin, where too much product or extra friction can make things worse. Pre-soaked toner pads take the guesswork out, giving you a consistent amount of formula every time and a gentler, more controlled swipe.

    Medicube’s Zero Pore Pads are saturated with a clarifying blend that exfoliates dead skin, absorbs excess oil, and helps keep pores looking clear without overdoing it. Salicylic acid works deep in the pores to help prevent breakouts by breaking down buildup, while lactic acid smooths uneven texture. And with calming ingredients like Centella asiatica, panthenol, and allantoin, skin stays balanced.

    ​​Tester feedback from associate social media manager Katie Gunderman

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    “The Medicube Zero Pore Toner Pads are always the first step. They refresh my face and prep it for the rest of my skin-care or makeup routine. They always leave my skin feeling clean and hydrated and I love how easy they are to pop on.” —Katie Gunderman, associate social media manager

    More to know

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    • Key ingredients: lactic acid, salicylic acid, Centella asiatica, panthenol, allantoin
    • Fragrance-free: yes
    • Number of pads: 70

    Bursting Bounce: PDRN Pink Collagen Capsule Cream

    Medicube PDRN Pink Collagen Capsule Cream in branded tub component on a light gray backgroundSave to wishlistSave to wishlist

    Medicube

    PDRN Pink Collagen Capsule Cream

    $22 $20 (9% off)

    Amazon

    Why it's worth it: The tiny pink capsules in the PDRN Pink Collagen Capsule Cream resemble popping boba—firm at first, then melting seamlessly into skin upon contact. Each capsule is filled with PDRN, helping keep it stable and potent until it hits your skin. Once released, it blends into the surrounding gel-like formula, which features collagen to support firmer-looking skin, hyaluronic acid for deep hydration, and niacinamide to help brighten uneven tone.

    How you mix the capsules with the gel depends on your skin type: Oilier skin types can lean more on the lightweight gel (about a 2:1 ratio), while normal or combination skin does well with an even split. If your skin is dry or sensitive, dial up the number of capsules (1:2) to add extra nourishment and bounce.

    Lee applying the Medicube PDRN Pink Collagen Capsule Cream

    Christa Joanna LeeLee after applying the Medicube PDRN Pink Collagen Capsule Cream

    Lee after applying the Medicube PDRN Pink Collagen Capsule Cream

    Christa Joanna Lee

    Tester feedback from Lee

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    “The texture is the main event here. There’s something oddly satisfying about watching the capsules break down and mix with the gel-cream, like you’re creating a fresh batch of skin care every time you apply it. And beyond the sensorial appeal, my skin always looks plumper and glowier.” —Christa Lee, contributing commerce writer

    More to know

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    • Key ingredients: salmon PDRN, collagen, hyaluronic acid, niacinamide
    • Fragrance-free: no

    No Rough Patches: PDRN Caffeine Collagen Eye Patch

    Medicube PDRN Caffeine Collagen Eye Patch in branded tub component on a light gray backgroundSave to wishlistSave to wishlist

    Medicube

    PDRN Caffeine Collagen Eye Patch

    $25

    Amazon

    Why it’s worth it: It’s kind of hard to believe Medicube didn’t have undereye patches until recently, but these feel well worth the wait. The brand recommends layering them over its PDRN Pink Peptide Eye Cream to seal everything in and enhance absorption, though the patches are juicy and hydrating enough to hold their own. In just 10 minutes, salmon-derived PDRN supports collagen production and boosts hydration, softening the look of fine lines and dark circles.

    There’s also a blend of seven types of collagen, which (while too large to penetrate deeply) is excellent at locking in moisture and creating a smoother, plumper look. Caffeine steps in to de-puff and revive tired eyes. Also worth noting: Despite the name, these aren’t limited to undereyes—you can even use them on forehead lines, smile lines, or anywhere that could use a little smoothing.

    More to know

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    • Key ingredients: salmon PDRN, collagen, caffeine
    • Fragrance-free: yes

    Triple Threat: 3-Step Facial Device

    Medicube 3-Step Facial Device in branded components on a light gray backgroundSave to wishlistSave to wishlist

    Medicube

    3-Step Facial Device

    $338

    Amazon

    Why it's worth it: By the time you’ve made it to the end of this list, you’re basically a Medicube expert, so wouldn’t it only feel right to have the tools to match? The brand’s 3-Step Facial Device is the kind of upgrade that makes your routine feel a little more legit, powered by the Mini Booster Pro Plus—a lighter, smaller, more streamlined version of the Age-R Booster Pro with fewer modes—that works on its own or clicks into interchangeable heads depending on what your skin needs that day.

    The V-Roller Head is where things get especially good. It’s designed at a 62-degree angle, which sounds technical but really just means it glides along your cheekbones and jawline with even pressure and coverage. The modes let you shift gears depending on your mood: Red Mode for a firmer, bouncier look over time, Blue Mode for mornings when your face is holding onto last night (it helps de-puff and refine), and Purple Mode shifts into body care territory, which is surprisingly nice for tension in the neck and shoulders.

    Then there’s the cleansing attachment, which goes beyond your hands to really get into pores, helping clear buildup, blackheads, and all those tricky little areas around the nose. You can go all in and use everything together in the same skin-care routine, or just pick your lane on any given day.

    More to know

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    • What’s included: Mini Booster Pro Plus, V-Roller Head, Cleansing Device

    Frequently Asked Questions

    Meet the experts

    • Charlotte Cho, an esthetician and co-founder of Soko Glam based in New York City
    • Jennifer Levine, MD, a board-certified plastic surgeon based in New York City

    How we test and review products

    When Allure tests a product, our editors look at it from every angle in an effort to best serve you. We review ingredients, scrutinize brand claims, and, when necessary, examine peer-reviewed scientific and medical studies. In addition to testing each and every product that's included in each and every review, we rely on experts who shape their fields, including dermatology, cosmetic chemistry, and medicine, to help us vet the ingredients and formulas.

    For our list of the best clay masks, we considered each product's performance across five primary categories: product ingredients and efficacy, packaging, fragrance, texture, and product wear. Every product was determined to have excelled in each category by our editorial team, which is composed of in-house writers and editors as well as contributors—along with special consideration from dermatologists. To learn more information on our reporting and testing processes, read our complete reviews process and methodology page.

    Our staff and testers

    A beauty product is a personal purchase. You might be searching for a face cream to address persistent dryness or a new nail product to add to your Sunday self-care routine; you may simply be browsing around for the latest launches to hit the hair market. No matter what you seek or your individual needs and concerns, Allure wants to ensure that you love anything we recommend in our stories. We believe that having a diverse team of writers and editors—in addition to the wide range of outside testers and industry experts we regularly call upon—is essential to reaching that goal.

    After all, can we really say a skin-care product is the "best" for people over 50 if the only testers we've solicited opinions from folks who have yet to hit 30? Can we honestly deem a high-end diffuser worthy of your hard-earned cash if it's never been tested on curls? We're proud that our staff spans a wide range of ages, skin tones, hair textures, genders, and backgrounds, which means that we are able to fairly assess any beauty product that comes into the beauty closet.

  • The Best K-Beauty Products at Nordstrom Allure Editors Have Added to Their Carts

    The Best K-Beauty Products at Nordstrom Allure Editors Have Added to Their Carts

    Selfies of Allure editors holding Korean skincare products alongside product silos on a lavender backgroundCollage: Jemeria Davison; Source images: Courtesy of Allure editors and brandsSave StorySave this storySave StorySave this story

    The best K-beauty at Nordstrom isn’t just about convenience—it’s the curation that makes discovering the best products feel easy. And that shift is intentional. “The growth of K-beauty is really a reflection of how our customer is evolving,” says Autumne West, Nordstrom’s national beauty director based in Seattle. “Customers are more ingredient-curious than ever, value gentle efficacy, and [are] looking globally for what actually works.” It’s less about chasing a complicated routine and more about building one that fits into your life. “We’re being very intentional…these are products [that] support how people want to care for their skin right now—consistently, gently, and with visible results,” she adds.

    Our Top K-Beauty Products at Nordstrom

    • Hero Hydrator: CosRx Advanced Snail 96 Mucin Power Essence, $25
    • Soothing Milky Goodness: I’m From Rice Toner, $27
    • 20 Minutes to Glow: I’m From Rice Glow Peel Off Mask, $28
    • Korea Top Seller: Round Lab Birch Juice Moisturizing UVLock Spectrum 45 Sunscreen, $25
    • Custom Fit: Saturday Skin Yuzu Vitamin C Butterfly Hydrogel Mask, $19
    • Silky Makeup Melter: Skin1004 Madagascar Centella Light Cleansing Oil, $22
    • Cuddly, Cloud-Like Cleanser: Sulwhasoo Gentle Cleansing Foam, $38

    You feel that mindset the second you start browsing. Instead of hopping between niche sites or waiting weeks for international shipping, you get a tightly edited mix of buzzy and tried-and-true brands all in one place. Sulwhasoo, CosRx, Round Lab, and Skin1004 all sitting side by side? Not something you see at most traditional retailers.

    And then there’s the part that makes you actually go through with checkout. Fast shipping, easy returns you can handle in-store (no printer gymnastics), and the reassurance that what you’re buying is legit. In a category that moves as fast as Korean beauty, that kind of ease matters. And while there’s always a new viral product making the rounds, Nordstrom’s approach feels a little more grounded—prioritizing what West calls “formats that make a routine feel lighter and more intuitive.” Think: the milky toner you use down to the last drop, the serum that remedies a broken barrier, or a sunscreen you actually want to slather on.

    Frequently Asked QuestionsAccordionItemContainerButtonLargeChevron

    • Can I trust buying Korean skin-care products online?
    • Meet the experts
    • How we test and review products
    • Our staff and testers

    A Next-Level Dose of Vitamin C: CosRx The Vitamin C 23 Serum

    CosRx The Vitamin C 23 Serum black serum bottle on light gray backgroundSave to wishlistSave to wishlist

    Cosrx

    The Vitamin C 23 Serum

    $25

    Nordstrom

    Allure contributing commerce writer Christa Joanna Lee applying the CosRx The Vitamin C 23 Serum

    Christa Joanna Lee

    Why it's worth it: Even as a kid, you heard vitamin C was good for your immune system, but your skin benefits, too. At a potent 23% concentration, CosRx’s The Vitamin C 23 Serum doesn’t just dabble; it goes all in on brightening, helping to fade dark spots, smooth texture, and boost overall glow. That high percentage matters because it uses pure ascorbic acid—the most well-studied, biologically active form of vitamin C—so it can act more directly than derivatives to help neutralize free radicals and support collagen production. To round things out, it’s paired with niacinamide and licorice root for added brightness and even tone, while panthenol, allantoin, and squalane cushion potential irritation with hydration and barrier support. Even with those soothing supporting players in the mix, 23% can still feel like a lot—so if you’d rather ease in, there’s also The Vitamin C 13 Serum as a gentler starting point.

    Tester feedback from contributing commerce writer Christa Joanna Lee

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    “Even with sensitive skin, I went straight for the 23% version of this serum—a bit bold, but I’ve historically done well with vitamin C, so I figured it was worth it. The first thing I noticed is just how thin the formula is. It barely hangs in the dropper, so I’d skip applying it directly to your face and instead dispense it into your hands first to avoid any rogue drips. Texture-wise, it almost reads like a dry oil—it spreads easily and absorbs crazy fast. Don’t expect an instant, mirror-level glow the second it sinks in. It's more about the slow and steady brightness you'll get from using it consistently!” —Christa Joanna Lee, contributing commerce writer

    More to know

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    • Key ingredients: ascorbic acid (vitamin C), licorice root, niacinamide, panthenol, allantoin, squalane, caffeine
    • Fragrance-free: yes

    Hero Hydrator: CosRx Advanced Snail 96 Mucin Power Essence

    CosRx Advanced Snail 96 Mucin Power Essence in branded component on a light gray backgroundSave to wishlistSave to wishlist

    Cosrx

    Advanced Snail 96 Mucin Power Essence

    $25

    Nordstrom

    Allure commerce editor Sarah Han applying the CosRx Advanced Snail 96 Mucin Power Essence

    Sarah Han

    Why it's worth it: If CosRx’s Advanced Snail 96 Mucin Power Essence isn’t already on your radar, you must have somehow dodged every corner of skin-care TikTok and Instagram. This K-beauty mainstay has been around since 2014, has made countless laps around the viral skin-care circuit, and—unsurprisingly—has earned a loyal following among Allure editors.“It enriches the skin with panthenol and 96% snail mucin to repair and hydrate,” says Y. Claire Chang, MD, a board-certified dermatologist at UnionDerm based in New York City.

    For the uninitiated, snail secretion filtrate may sound a little out there. Still, it’s essentially a mix of water, glycoproteins, and amino acids that help keep skin hydrated, resilient, and better able to repair itself—similar to how snails protect their own delicate skin. It’s paired with sodium hyaluronate and betaine to draw in moisture, plus panthenol and allantoin to calm and support the barrier. The texture is that signature stretchy, slightly gooey essence, but it sinks in quickly, leaving behind a bouncy, glass-skin finish that K-beauty is famous for.

    As for the sourcing, CosRx’s R&D team explains that “snails are placed over a mesh net in a dark and quiet room. As nocturnal creatures, this provides them with a comfortable space to freely roam about. After about an hour, the snails are transferred back to their homes while the mucin is collected and processed for use.”

    Tester feedback from commerce editor Sarah Han

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    "The texture is so fun and surprisingly not tacky seconds after applying. But more importantly, it gives my skin lots of love, glow, and bounce with every application. It's a must any time of the year." —Sarah Han, commerce editor

    More to know

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    • Key ingredients: snail secretion filtrate, panthenol, sodium hyaluronate, allantoin
    • Fragrance-free: yes

    Supple Sensation: I’m From Rice Serum

    I’m From Rice Serum white bottle of serum on light gray backgroundSave to wishlistSave to wishlist

    I'm From

    Rice Serum

    $27

    Nordstrom

    Allure senior commerce director Shanna Shipin applying the I’m From Rice Serum

    Shanna Shipin

    Why it's worth it: In Korea, especially during the Joseon Dynasty, women—particularly in aristocratic circles—were known to save the milky water left over from rinsing rice (ssal tteumul) into their beauty routines. Rice water is packed with amino acids, vitamins, and starches that soften, gently brighten, and support the skin barrier. I’m From’s Rice Serum takes that old-school idea and gives it a modern upgrade. Instead of leftover rice water, you’re getting 73% fermented rice embryo extract—smaller, more concentrated, and loaded with nutrients to soothe, brighten, and strengthen the barrier thanks to linolenic acid. Niacinamide balances oil and refines the appearance of pores, while a blend of hyaluronic acid and hydrolyzed hyaluronic acid delivers layered hydration—the latter has a smaller molecular size, allowing it to penetrate more easily for deeper, longer-lasting moisture.

    Tester feedback from senior commerce director Shanna Shipin

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    “I reach for this product when I need a gentle, all-season serum. I'm constantly switching up my skin-care routine—due to testing, but also based on the weather; how humid it is, if my allergies are acting up, if I'm super dry, the list goes on! But the I'm From Rice Serum has been a mainstay through it all. It has a nice, thin texture that's a bit gel-y (but not goopy), and absorbs so quickly. It's become a key hydrating step in my routine, and leaves my skin feeling supple, fresh, and ready for a lightweight moisturizer over top. I also love the packaging. It's a beautiful glass bottle, and the branding feels like a serene cottagecore dream.” —Shanna Shipin, senior commerce director

    More to know

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    • Key ingredients: rice embryo extract, linolenic acid, niacinamide, hydrolyzed hyaluronic acid
    • Fragrance-free: yes

    Soothing Milky Goodness: I’m From Rice Toner

    I’m From Rice Toner in branded bottle component on a light gray backgroundSave to wishlistSave to wishlist

    I'm From

    Rice Toner

    $28

    Nordstrom

    Han applying the I’m From Rice Toner

    Sarah Han

    Why it's worth it: Maybe you’re in the camp that still wonders if toner is even necessary, but in Korea, it’s one of those steps people rarely skip. I’m From’s Rice Toner is a longtime K-beauty staple, formulated with rice extract from Korea’s Yeoju region, known for its clean water and nutrient-rich soil. That’s what gives the formula its signature milky look—and its ability to hydrate, soften, and subtly boost radiance in one step. Beyond rice extract to nourish and brighten, niacinamide evens tone and refines the look of pores, while adenosine supports smoother, more bouncy-looking skin. A blend of lightweight emollients keeps things silky, and soothing botanicals like purslane and Japanese elm bark calm irritation. Give it a quick shake, then either soak a cotton pad or pour a little into your palms and press it gently into your skin.

    Tester feedback from Han

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    "A hydrating toner or essence is a non-negotiable step of my daytime and nighttime routines. I'm From’s Rice Toner is so gentle and great for all skin types: It instantly plumps my skin, giving it a brighter, refreshed look and prepping it for the serums, moisturizers, and sunscreens to follow. Now that we're in the office four days a week, I can't be bothered to wear makeup every day—but, with the help of this toner (which is so worth the hype), at least my skin looks nice and glowy." —Sarah Han, commerce editor

    More to know

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    • Key ingredients: rice extract, adenosine, niacinamide, glycerin, panthenol, purslane, Japanese elm bark
    • Fragrance-free: yes

    20 Minutes to Glow: I’m From Rice Glow Peel Off Mask

    I’m From Rice Glow Peel Off Mask white tube on light gray backgroundSave to wishlistSave to wishlist

    I'm From

    Rice Glow Peel Off Mask

    $28

    Nordstrom

    Lee applying and removing the I’m From Rice Glow Peel Off Mask

    Christa Joanna Lee

    Why it's worth it: If you couldn’t tell, Koreans really love their rice—and your skin reaps the benefits in this mask. I’m From’s Rice Glow Peel-Off Mask pairs rice extract with rice bran to gently exfoliate, lift away impurities, and boost brightness while keeping skin hydrated. The rest of the formula is thoughtfully balanced, too. Niacinamide helps even out tone and support the skin over time, while glycerin and panthenol maintain moisture levels. “Ceramides in the formula are particularly important in a peel-off format, since removal can otherwise feel drying,” says Alexandra Bowles, DO, a board-certified dermatologist based in Cincinnati, who notes that it delivers smoothness and glow “without leaning heavily on harsh exfoliating acids.” And if overnight masks aren’t your thing, the thick (but easy-to-spread) formula peels away cleanly in as little as 20 minutes.

    Tester feedback from Lee

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    “This was my first time trying a peel-off mask, and it instantly brought me back to that weirdly satisfying childhood habit of putting glue on your fingers just to let it dry and peel it off. The texture really does feel glue-like—thick and slightly tacky—but it works fast, so you only have a couple of minutes to spread it evenly before it starts setting. I have dry skin, and it dried in about 20 minutes (oilier skin types may need closer to 40 minutes). When I peeled it off, I was impressed by how juicy and moisturized my skin looked. The photo honestly doesn’t do it justice—this is one of those you-gotta-see-it-for-yourself moments.” —Christa Joanna Lee, contributing commerce writer

    More to know

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    • Key ingredients: rice extract, jojoba seed oil, niacinamide
    • How to use it: leave on for 20 to 40 minutes
    • Fragrance-free: yes

    Korea Top Seller: Round Lab Birch Juice Moisturizing UVLock Spectrum 45 Sunscreen

    Round Lab Birch Juice Moisturizing UVLock Spectrum 45 Sunscreen in branded tube component on a light gray backgroundSave to wishlistSave to wishlist

    Round Lab

    Birch Juice Moisturizing UVLock Spectrum 45 Sunscreen

    $25

    Nordstrom

    Lee applying the Round Lab Birch Juice Moisturizing UVLock Spectrum 45 Sunscreen

    Christa Joanna Lee

    Why it's worth it: Birch trees—often called the “queen of the forest”—have long been tapped for their nutrient-rich sap, especially in early spring before the leaves emerge. That slightly sweet sap is packed with natural moisturizing factors—like amino acids, PCA, and hyaluronic acid—that keep skin hydrated and balanced. It’s this same ingredient that gives Round Lab’s Birch Juice Moisturizing UVLock Spectrum 45 Sunscreen its skin-care-meets-SPF appeal. “It’s a moisturizing sunscreen that is formulated with hyaluronic acid, glycerin, and antioxidants to hydrate and soothe the skin,” says Dr. Chang. Panthenol and purslane extract calm and reduce visible redness, while the lightweight formula blends in easily and layers seamlessly under makeup. And if you’re not already in on it, Korean sunscreens—which are known for blending in seamlessly without a white cast or pilling—are in a league of their own. Consider this a great, dewy place to start.

    Tester feedback from Lee

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    "I can’t believe it took me this long to try the Round Lab Birch Moisturizing Sunscreen. Now I fully get the hype. It disappears instantly, makes my skin feel hydrated thanks to the birch sap, and honestly, my only complaint is that it doesn’t come in a jumbo bottle so I can slather it everywhere." —Christa Lee, contributing commerce writer

    More to know

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    • Sunscreen type: chemical
    • Key ingredients: avobenzone, homosalate, octisalate, birch tree sap, niacinamide, glycerin (no percentages of UV filters listed)
    • Fragrance-free: yes

    Melts Away Waterproof Eye Makeup: Round Lab 1025 Dokdo Cleansing Oil

    Round Lab 1025 Dokdo Cleansing Oil in branded component on a light gray backgroundSave to wishlistSave to wishlist

    Round Lab

    1025 Dokdo Cleansing Oil

    $23

    Nordstrom

    Han using the Round Lab 1025 Dokdo Cleansing Oil

    Sarah Han

    Why it's worth it: Picture this: Off the coast of Ulleungdo, deep-sea water sits about 5,000 feet below the surface—cold, untouched by sunlight, and naturally filtered over time. It’s rich in magnesium and calcium, which balance out your skin. That’s the mineral-rich goodness packed inside Round Lab’s 1025 Dokdo Cleansing Oil. It also features a blend of plant oils—meadowfoam, grape seed, avocado, and evening primrose—that effortlessly breaks down makeup and sunscreen without leaving behind a greasy film. Meanwhile, panthenol, allantoin, and ceramides support the skin barrier, and multiple forms of hyaluronic acid add a hit of hydration. It emulsifies quickly (we haven’t met a waterproof liner or mascara that stood a chance), then rinses clean, leaving skin soft and comfortable, never tight.

    Tester feedback from Han

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    “Round Lab's standout products, for me, come from the 1025 Dokdo line, which uses Ulleungdo deep-sea water as its star ingredient. That's what gives the cleansing oil a slightly refreshing feeling, I don't find with other oils I've used. (Apparently, this seawater is extracted 5,000 feet below sea level and stays at a cool two degrees Celsius all year round, so this checks out!) It gets rid of my eye makeup—I love my waterproof, lifeproof gel liners—in the blink of an eye, so it passes my main criteria with flying colors. It leaves my skin feeling baby-soft post-rinse, too. This is pretty niche, but I love how much the pump dispenses at once because of how high it sits. I go heavy on cleansing oil in general, especially when I'm wearing makeup, so this little design detail is appreciated!” —Sarah Han, commerce editor

    More to know

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    • Key ingredients: meadowfoam seed oil, ceramides, hyaluronic acid, panthenol, allantoin
    • Fragrance-free: yes

    3x the Vitamin C of Other Citruses: Saturday Skin Yuzu Vitamin C Sleep Mask

    Saturday Skin Yuzu Vitamin C Sleep Mask in branded component on a light gray backgroundSave to wishlistSave to wishlist

    Saturday Skin

    Yuzu Vitamin C Sleep Mask

    $39

    Nordstrom

    Han applying the Saturday Skin Yuzu Vitamin C Sleep Mask

    Sarah Han

    Why it's worth it: Yuzu has a long history in East Asia for skin-softening and wellness rituals—think citrus baths and traditional remedies—so it was only a matter of time before it made its way into a modern, glow-inducing formula. Big bonus: It also boasts three times(!) the vitamin C of most citrus fruits. Saturday Skin’s Yuzu Vitamin C Sleep Mask pairs yuzu with ascorbic acid and niacinamide to brighten and even tone overnight. It’s not just about radiance, though. Glycerin keeps skin comfortably hydrated, while ceramides, cholesterol, and linoleic acid support the barrier. Antioxidant-rich extras like sea buckthorn and vitamin E fend off dullness, and peptides smooth the complexion over time. There’s also a touch of retinol—low on the ingredient list—but since this sleeping mask stays on overnight, sensitive skin types may want to patch-test first.

    Tester feedback from Han

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    “I like loading up with retinol at night, and this overnight mask is also packed with vitamin C-rich yuzu extract, so my skin is left immediately radiant but also smoother the next morning. And despite piling on hydrating essences and serums beforehand, this doesn't leave my skin feeling overly glowy or sticky. Head's up: The citrusy scent is quite potent, so some people might not be into that, but I love it!” —Sarah Han, commerce editor

    More to know

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    • Key ingredients: yuzu extract, niacinamide, retinol, ceramides, sea buckthorn
    • Fragrance-free: yes

    Custom Fit: Saturday Skin Yuzu Vitamin C Butterfly Hydrogel Mask

    Saturday Skin Yuzu Vitamin C Butterfly Hydrogel Mask yellow box and eye masks on light gray backgroundSave to wishlistSave to wishlist

    Saturday Skin

    Yuzu Vitamin C Butterfly Hydrogel Mask

    $19

    Nordstrom

    Han applying and removing the Saturday Skin Yuzu Vitamin C Butterfly Hydrogel Mask

    Sarah Han

    Why it's worth it: If overnight masks simply aren’t your thing, Saturday Skin’s Yuzu Vitamin C Butterfly Hydrogel Mask is a quicker, more targeted option. This cooling, three-piece design hugs the “butterfly zone”—cheeks, nose, undereyes, and crow’s feet—for a snug, second-skin fit that actually stays put. The embossed hydrogel matrix locks in brightening and hydrating ingredients right where you want them. At the center of it all is yuzu (noticing a pattern?) to boost glow and wake up dull, tired-looking skin. Niacinamide and tranexamic acid even tone and refine the look of pores, while ceramides, cholesterol, and peptides support the barrier—so skin looks smoother, brighter, and more refreshed in under 30 minutes.

    Tester feedback from Han

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    “Though less common, I’m a big fan of these in-between masks (Superegg’s Calm Movement Eye & Cheek Mask is another fave.) Why wouldn’t I? In addition to treating my undereyes, these Saturday Skin butterfly masks address any dry patches on my cheeks (especially prevalent during the colder months and the separate nose patch goes to work on that pore-ridden area. As opposed to the depuffing eye patches I like to throw on quickly in the a.m. before makeup, these masks are a great nighttime option that I like to leave on for longer (up to 30 minutes!) to really let the skin-boosting actives seep in before my all-important beauty sleep picks up the rest of the work.” —Sarah Han, commerce editor

    More to know

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    • Key ingredients: yuzu, niacinamide, tranexamic acid, ceramides, cholesterol, peptides
    • Fragrance-free: yes

    Silky Makeup Melter: Skin1004 Madagascar Centella Light Cleansing Oil

    Skin1004 Madagascar Centella Light Cleansing Oil in branded component on a light gray backgroundSave to wishlistSave to wishlist

    Skin1004

    Madagascar Centella Light Cleansing Oil

    $22

    Nordstrom

    Allure contributing commerce editor Deanna Pai using the Skin1004 Madagascar Centella Light Cleansing Oil

    Deanna Pai

    Why it's worth it: It feels like every time we get comfortable with a cleanser, K-beauty finds a way to raise the bar. Centella asiatica (a.k.a. cica) is already a staple in Korean skin care, but Skin1004 goes a step further by sourcing theirs from Madagascar, where it grows in a relatively untouched environment—known for its soothing, skin-repairing benefits, especially when your barrier is feeling a little off. In the Madagascar Centella Light Cleansing Oil, it’s the very first ingredient, and the formula stays refreshingly simple from there. A blend of lightweight oils—sunflower, olive, and jojoba—melts down makeup, sunscreen, and excess sebum without leaving behind a heavy film.

    Tester feedback from contributing commerce editor Deanna Pai

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    "I don't want to be dramatic, but this has capital-T transformed by cleansing routine. I got it in a set paired with the brand's Cleansing Ampoule Foam, but this is a non-negotiable first step for melting all of my makeup off before I go in with the lather. It has a generous slip, little to no scent, and a lightweight texture that's easy to emulsify and rinse. My only complaint is that I will need a jumbo size made." —Deanna Pai, contributing commerce editor

    More to know

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    • Key ingredients: Centella asiatica, bergamot, sunflower seed, olive fruit, and jojoba seed oils
    • Fragrance-free: yes

    Powered by 500 Hours of Fermentation: Sulwhasoo First Care Activating Serum

    Sulwhasoo First Care Activating Serum in branded component on a light gray backgroundSave to wishlistSave to wishlist

    Sulwhasoo

    First Care Activating Serum

    $89

    Nordstrom

    Former Allure senior news editor Nicola Dall’Asen applying the Sulwhasoo First Care Activating Serum

    Nicola Dall'Asen

    Why it's worth it: We can spot a filler ingredient from a mile away—but ginseng, especially when Sulwhasoo gets involved, is doing the heavy lifting. The brand ages its ginseng for 500 hours before it ever makes it into the First Care Activating Serum, and then pairs it with a blend of peony root, lotus seed, white lily, Solomon’s seal, and rehmannia to make skin look brighter, stronger, and more energized. It’s not just about glow, either: The formula works beneath the surface, “helping repair the barrier, boost collagen, and fight signs of aging,” says Dr. Chang. And because this is K-beauty, the experience is part of the appeal. “Sulwhasoo’s products always feel luxurious. The herbal extracts give it an elegant, grounding scent that feels so soothing,” adds Hee Jin Kim, MD, a board-certified medical doctor based in Fort Lee, New Jersey.

    Tester feedback from former senior news editor Nicola Dall’Asen

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    “When my skin's in serious need of extra TLC—as in, spend-an-entire-night-doing-a-12-step-routine serious—this serum is the first thing I grab after my face is double-cleansed. It's the ultimate K-beauty serum in my eyes because its barely-there texture allows me to layer it with as many other serums, sheet masks, and creams as I like without pilling, which is exactly what it's designed to do. Packed with antioxidant ginseng, it works with your other skin-care steps to boost hydration, elasticity, brightness, and overall skin barrier strength. It's a non-negotiable step before I put on any sheet mask, but it works just as effectively on its own.” —Nicola Dall’Asen, former senior news editor

    More to know

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    • Key ingredients: ginseng, herbal extracts, vitamin C
    • Fragrance-free: no

    Cuddly, Cloud-Like Cleanser: Sulwhasoo Gentle Cleansing Foam

    Sulwhasoo Gentle Cleansing Foam light yellow bottle of cleansing foam with a white pump cap on light gray backgroundSave to wishlistSave to wishlist

    Sulwhasoo

    Gentle Cleansing Foam

    $38

    Nordstrom

    Allure senior art director Ingrid Fowler using the Sulwhasoo Gentle Cleansing Foam

    Ingrid Fowler

    Why it's worth it: If you’re someone who dreads that tight, squeaky-clean feeling after washing your face, Sulwhasoo’s Gentle Cleansing Foam is a nice departure. It starts rich and cushiony, then builds into a soft lather that lifts away dirt, oil, and makeup without leaving your skin feeling stripped. True to Sulwhasoo form, it’s infused with ingredients like ginseng and orange peel extract to keep things balanced and comfortable. It also sneaks in a few under-the-radar extras—like chestnut shell extract for mild exfoliation, brightening coix seed, and hydrating yam root—which explains why your skin feels soft after rinsing. Still side-eyeing the price? There’s a mini 50-milliliter size that makes it easy to try (and toss in your travel bag) before you inevitably love it.

    Tester feedback from senior art director Ingrid Fowler

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    “As the name says, it's super gentle. I find it effectively cleanses without stripping my skin, leaving it soft after use and after following up with a moisturizer. It smells fresh but not too strong, and the bottle looks chic in my bathroom. I prefer a pump bottle like this for easy use on a sink or in the shower. The price is a tad high for a simple liquid-to-foam cleanser, but I love using it so much that it's worth it. I think this would be an effective product for many skin types, thanks to its gentle formula. It's one of my favorite cleansers!” —Ingrid Fowler, senior art director

    More to know

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    • Key ingredients: herbal extract blend (raspberry, mulberry leaf, mountain yam, cocoa):
    • Fragrance-free: no

    Frequently Asked Questions

    Can I trust buying Korean skin-care products online?

    Yes, especially if you’re shopping for Korean beauty products through a trusted retailer like Nordstrom—but it’s still worth paying attention to who you’re buying from. While Nordstrom curates its assortment, some beauty brands like Haruharu Wonder may be fulfilled by third-party sellers. A quick check to make sure the product is sold directly by Nordstrom (rather than a marketplace partner) can give you a little extra reassurance.

    It also doesn’t hurt that shopping for K-beauty products at Nordstrom makes the whole process feel low-risk: If something doesn’t work out, returns are easy to handle either online or in-store (no repackaging stress), which isn’t always the case with other e-tailers.

    How does Nordstrom curate their K-beauty products?

    Nordstrom’s approach to curating K-beauty is, as West puts it, “rooted in thoughtfulness.” Rather than chasing trends, the team looks for brands that “balance innovation with integrity,” prioritizing clinically backed ingredients and formats that make routines feel “lighter and more intuitive”—like toner pads and ampoule-infused treatments that simplify steps while still delivering results. “Transparency matters, too,” she adds, noting a focus on formulas centered on hydration, sensitivity, and barrier health. “Those everyday concerns that resonate across every skin story.” Just as key is how those products are introduced: Nordstrom relies on curation and clear storytelling to “simplify that journey,” spotlighting approachable entry points that make discovery feel effortless rather than overwhelming.

    Meet the experts

    • Alexandra Bowles, DO, a board-certified dermatologist based in Cincinnati
    • Y. Claire Chang, MD, a board-certified dermatologist at UnionDerm based in New York City
    • Hee Jin Kim, MD, a board-certified medical doctor and Medical Director of PureenMD based in Fort Lee, New Jersey

    How we test and review products

    When Allure tests a product, our editors look at it from every angle in an effort to best serve you. We review ingredients, scrutinize brand claims, and, when necessary, examine peer-reviewed scientific and medical studies. In addition to testing each and every product that's included in each and every review, we rely on experts who shape their fields, including dermatology, cosmetic chemistry, and medicine, to help us vet the ingredients and formulas.

    For our list of the best K-beauty at Nordstrom, we considered each product's performance across five primary categories: product ingredients and efficacy, packaging, fragrance, texture, and product wear. Every product was determined to have excelled in each category by our editorial team, which is composed of in-house writers and editors as well as contributors—along with special consideration from board-certified dermatologists, estheticians, and brand founders. To learn more information on our reporting and testing processes, read our complete reviews process and methodology page.

    Our staff and testers

    A beauty product is a personal purchase. You might be searching for a face cream to address persistent dryness or a new nail product to add to your Sunday self-care routine; you may simply be browsing around for the latest launches to hit the hair market. No matter what you seek or your individual needs and concerns, Allure wants to ensure that you love anything we recommend in our stories. We believe that having a diverse team of writers and editors—in addition to the wide range of outside testers and industry experts we regularly call upon—is essential to reaching that goal.

    After all, can we really say a skin-care product is the "best" for people over 50 if the only testers we've solicited opinions from folks who have yet to hit 30? Can we honestly deem a high-end diffuser worthy of your hard-earned cash if it's never been tested on curls? We're proud that our staff spans a wide range of ages, skin tones, hair textures, genders, and backgrounds, which means that we are able to fairly assess any beauty product that comes into the beauty closet.

  • 8 Best Curling Mascaras for Length, Volume, and Hold

    8 Best Curling Mascaras for Length, Volume, and Hold

    A selfie of an Allure editor after applying Benefit BadGal Bang mascara with other mascara product silos on a red backgroundCollage: Paula Balondo; Source images: Courtesy of Allure editors and brandsSave StorySave this storySave StorySave this story

    Ask any beauty editor, and they’ll tell you the best curling mascaras are like falsies in a tube. Unlike formulas that are more focused on dramatic volume or length, curling mascaras lift, fan, and define each lash like a lash curler would, so your eyes look wide awake even before your first coffee. These formulas strike the ideal balance of locking in lift without weighing lashes down or leaving behind a stiff, crunchy, or clumpy finish. Many are infused with hydrating and nourishing ingredients like vitamin E and castor oil to help strengthen lashes over time.

    Our Top Curling Mascaras

    • Best Overall: Tower 28 Beauty MakeWaves Mascara, $20
    • Best for Brittle Lashes: Well People Expressionist Curling Mascara, $20
    • Best for Short Lashes: Lancome Lash Idôle Curl Goddess Mascara, $30
    • Best Volumizing: Kulfi Beauty Badi Lash Mascara, $26
    • Best Lightweight: e.l.f. Cosmetics Lash N Roll Mascara, $7

    Frequently Asked QuestionsAccordionItemContainerButtonLargeChevron

    • What should you look for in a curling mascara?
    • What's the difference between curling mascaras and other mascaras?
    • Meet the experts
    • How we test and review products
    • Our staff and testers

    When it comes to curling mascaras, the brush matters just as much as the formula—think curved wands with a mix of short and long bristles designed to grip and create that eye-opening, lengthened effect. Whether you’re after a soft, fluttery look or full-on drama, there’s a curling mascara out there for you. We put countless tubes to the test to find the standouts that truly lift, hold, and leave lashes looking sky high and longer than ever.

    Best Overall: Tower 28 Beauty MakeWaves Mascara

    Tower 28 Make Waves Mascara in branded component on a light gray backgroundSave to wishlistSave to wishlist

    Tower 28

    MakeWaves Mascara

    $20

    Amazon

    $20

    Revolve

    $20

    Sephora

    Allure commerce writer Lily Wohlner applying the Tower 28 Make Waves Mascara

    Lily Wohlner

    Why it’s worth it: The secret to Tower 28 Beauty’s lash-lifting MakeWaves formula? A curved, triple-wave wand designed with shorter bristles that hug the lash line to really grab onto your roots, and longer bristles to lengthen and define.

    You may have heard of Aquaflex Technology in hair care (think: volumizers and hairsprays to create body and hold). It’s also featured in this mascara to help hold curl and lift in place, while a conditioning castor-oil blend keeps lashes conditioned and minimizes breakage. “The formula stays flexible so the curl never falls flat, affirms Renée Loiz, a makeup artist based in Los Angeles. (Translation: Your lashes won’t feel weighed down, nor will you have to deal with stray mascara specks, by midday.) We love how easy it is to build, too. Go in for a few extra coats and lashes still look airy and clump-free. And true to Tower 28’s sensitive-friendly core mission, the ophthalmologist-tested formula is gentle on sensitive eyes and contact lens wearers, so you can swipe on without a worry.

    Allure commerce writer Lily Wohlner before applying the Tower28 Make Waves Mascara

    Allure commerce writer Lily Wohlner before applying the Tower28 Make Waves Mascara

    Lily WohlnerWohlner after applying the Tower28 Make Waves Mascara

    Wohlner after applying the Tower28 Make Waves Mascara

    Lily Wohlner

    Tester feedback from commerce writer Lily Wohlner

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    “This mascara always lives at the top of my drawer because I know my lashes will look long, fluttery, and lifted every time I swipe it on—and the curl actually lasts all day. I love a voluminous lash, but I can’t stand when formulas make them look thick or chunky, and this one never does. As a contact lens wearer, a lot of mascaras make my eyes water, but I’ve never had that issue here.”—Lily Wohlner, commerce writer

    Tester feedback from senior commerce director Shanna Shipin

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    "The hold on this mascara is incredible. I have short, dense, and straight lashes that are just so stubborn—but this coaxes some length and curl out of them! This is one of the few mascaras I can actually use without any kind of irritation. While it's not the most lengthening or curling formula you can get your hands on, it's so comfortable and doesn't flake or smudge. I love that it provides the perfect amount of natural-looking weight to my eyelashes so you can actually see them." —Shanna Shipin, shopping director

    More to know

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    • Key ingredients: Aquaflex technology, glycerin, cucumber extract
    • Shades: 2 (Jet, Espresso)
    • Waterproof: yes
    • Who it’s for: everyone, especially those with sensitive eyes

    Best for Brittle Lashes: Well People Expressionist Curling Mascara

    Well People Expressionist Curling Mascara in branded component on a light gray backgroundSave to wishlistSave to wishlist

    Well People

    Expressionist Curling Mascara

    $20

    Amazon

    $20

    Ulta Beauty

    Allure senior commerce editor Sarah Felbin applying the Well People Expressionist Curling Mascara

    Sarah Felbin

    Why it’s worth it: Made with plant-based oils and vegan waxes (hi, olive oil and carnauba), the Well People Expressionist Curling Mascara helps nourish lashes while delivering lightweight hold, making it a great pick for those with brittle, short eyelashes. The curved brush does most of the heavy lifting here, gently separating each lash one by one (without pulling!) to keep clumps at bay. The bristles are super flexible, so they move with your lashes instead of tugging against them for a smooth experience, from start to finish. One side of the brush features short, dense bristles that deposit rich black color and build volume, while the longer bristles on the other side help guide lashes upward. We like to gently wiggle the wand at the base of the lashes before sweeping upward to get even more separation and lift.

    Felbin before applying the Well People Expressionist Curling Mascara

    Felbin before applying the Well People Expressionist Curling Mascara

    Sarah FelbinFelbin after applying the Well People Expressionist Curling Mascara

    Felbin after applying the Well People Expressionist Curling Mascara

    Sarah Felbin

    Tester feedback from senior commerce editor Sarah Felbin

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    I use this product a few days a week, as part of my regular makeup routine. I curl my lashes and then apply two coats. My standards for mascara are pretty high—I have oily eyelids and watery eyes, so the formula needs to stay put all day (no flaking or transferring to my lower lash line) without irritating my eyes. Well People's Curling Mascara checks every box, and then some. I love that the brush is curved—the shape makes it super easy to coat every lash, from corner to corner. I also like that I can build up multiple coats for a more dramatic effect. And, the application lasts all day without smudging or running. This is a super-solid, daily mascara for me—it's just the right amount of lengthening and volumizing, rolled into one formula.”—Sarah Felbin, senior commerce editor

    More to know

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    • Key Ingredients: olive oil, caranuba wax
    • Shades: 1 (Black)
    • Waterproof: no
    • Who it’s for: everyone, especially those with sensitive eyes

    Best Volumizing: Kulfi Beauty Badi Lash Mascara

    Kulfi Badi Lash Mascara in branded component on a light gray backgroundSave to wishlistSave to wishlist

    Kulfi Beauty

    Badi Lash Mascara

    $26

    Sephora

    $26

    Kulfi Beauty

    Allure senior commerce director applying the Kulfi Beauty Badi Lash Mascara

    Shanna Shipin

    Why it’s worth it: Inspired by South Asian lashes—often naturally full and straight—this mascara turns the dial all the way up, delivering a lifted, eye-opening effect in just a few swipes. The instantly volumizing tubing formula wraps each lash for va-va-voom length without smudging, melting, or clumping. And, its flared-tip brush is shaped to mimic your natural lash line, so it can catch those tricky inner-corner hairs while fanning everything out for that wide-eyed, fluttery finish. With this formula, it's not just about the look: a conditioning blend of castor seed oil, rambutan extract, and a tripeptide complex works behind the scenes to soften and strengthen lashes over time. The tubing formula means it removes like a dream—just warm water and a gentle slide, with no rubbing required.

    Shipin before using the Kulfi Beauty Badi Lash Mascara

    Shipin before using the Kulfi Beauty Badi Lash Mascara

    Shanna ShipinShipin after using the Kulfi Beauty Badi Lash Mascara

    Shipin after using the Kulfi Beauty Badi Lash Mascara

    Shanna Shipin

    Tester feedback from Shipin

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    "Kulfi's mascara gives me jet-black lashes with the kind of curl and volume they absolutely do not have naturally. I hardly ever use an eyelash curler, and really don't feel the need to when I have this mascara on me. It has hours of hold and with just the teeniest bit of fallout since it is technically a tubing mascara. One of my favorite things is that it wards off smudges—crucial for me since I reapply moisturizer, SPF, and sometimes use a misting spray when I'm feeling extra dry. If you want the drama, this will bring it."—Shanna Shipin, senior commerce director

    More to know

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    • Key ingredients: castor seed oil, rambutan extract, and a tripeptide complex
    • Shades: 1 (Black)
    • Waterproof: no
    • Who it’s for: people with stubby and/or heavy lashes

    Best Buildable: YSL Beauty Lash Clash Extreme Volume Mascara

    YSL Beauty Lash Clash Extreme Volume Mascara in branded component on a light gray background

    Allure commerce producer Sarah Hoffmann applying YSL Lash Clash Extreme Volume Mascara

    Sarah Hoffmann

    Why it’s worth it: A 2025 Allure Best of Beauty Award winner and one of our favorite mascaras ever, the YSL Beauty Lash Clash Extreme Volume Mascara delivers the kind of bold volume that’s hard to ignore—and the staying power is just as impressive. Some of our testers say the effect borders on falsies, thanks to an oversized brush that’s surprisingly easy to maneuver and grabs onto every lash. “It’s great for building fluttery volume with extra coats and really helps catch all the lashes,” says New York City–based makeup artist Sara Talias. It’s also seriously pigmented (even the brown color), so if you’re racing out the door, one coat still makes a big impact. That said, we’re partial to layering it up because it builds fluffy volume without tipping into clumpy territory.

    Hoffmann before applying YSL Lash Clash Extreme Volume Mascara

    Hoffmann before applying YSL Lash Clash Extreme Volume Mascara

    Sarah HoffmannHoffmann after applying YSL Lash Clash Extreme Volume Mascara

    Hoffmann after applying YSL Lash Clash Extreme Volume Mascara

    Sarah Hoffmann

    Tester feedback from commerce producer Sarah Hoffmann

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    "Its thick, almost pasty texture adds so much volume and thickness that it's almost comical—I've been interrupted mid-conversation by people asking if my lashes are real while wearing this. The brush is giant, which makes it easy to coat every lash, and even though it's not curved, it magically adds a lifting curl to my lashes that rivals the best eyelash curlers I've tried." —Sarah Hoffmann, commerce producer

    More to know

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    • Key ingredients: N/A
    • Shades: 3 (Black, Brown, Blue)
    • Waterproof: no
    • Who it’s for: people who want a volumizing, highly-pigmented option

    Best for Short Lashes: Lancôme Lash Idôle Curl Goddess Mascara

    Lancôme Lash Idôle Curl Goddess Mascara in branded component on a light gray backgroundSave to wishlistSave to wishlist

    Lancôme

    Lash Idôle Curl Goddess Mascara

    $30

    Amazon

    $30

    Nordstrom

    $30

    Ulta Beauty

    Allure commerce editor Sarah Han applying the Lancôme Lash Idôle Curl Goddess Mascara

    Sarah Han

    Why it’s worth it: Skip the hours-only appointments and the high price tag of lash extensions. Lancôme’s Lash Idôle Curl Goddess Mascara gives you longer, more curled lashes in just a few swipes. The twisted brush is designed to grab even the shortest lashes for a separated, fluttery effect that still looks natural. It features low-density setting polymers, which make lashes appear thicker and add volume, but they also set them in place so they hold their curl all day without falling flat. The brand claims this formula can wear without smudging for up to 30 hours, and although we've never tried it for that long, our tester experienced only slight smudging during her all-day wear test, which, for a non-waterproof mascara, gets a big green check.

    Han before applying the Lancôme Lash Idôle Curl Goddess Mascara

    Han before applying the Lancôme Lash Idôle Curl Goddess Mascara

    Sarah HanHan after applying the Lancôme Lash Idôle Curl Goddess Mascara

    Han after applying the Lancôme Lash Idôle Curl Goddess Mascara

    Sarah Han

    Tester feedback from commerce editor Sarah Han

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    “My lashes are short, straight, and stubborn. I never apply mascara without a curler, but for this story, I went without—and I was pretty darn impressed. While my lashes weren’t crazy-curled (again, they’re super stubborn!), I definitely noticed a lifting effect, and it held throughout the day, which is even more notable. I dealt with a little smudging but that’s not uncommon with non-waterproof mascaras, especially if I’m not maximizing application with a curler. In short, I don’t plan on ditching my curler but, if I’m really in a rush, I can count on the Curl Goddess to do the job on its own.” —Sarah Han, commerce editor

    More to know

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    • Key ingredients: film-forming polymer
    • Shades: 1 (Black)
    • Waterproof: no
    • Who it’s for: those who want a false-lash look

    Best Color Options: Benefit Cosmetics BadGal Bang Volumizing Mascara

    closed tube of Benefit Bad Gal Bang Mascara in Wild Plum on a light gray backgroundSave to wishlistSave to wishlist

    Benefit Cosmetics

    Benefit Cosmetics Badgal Bang Mascara in Wild Plum

    $29

    Ulta Beauty

    $29

    Benefit Cosmetics

    Allure former content director Kara McGrath applying Benefit Cosmetics BadGal Bang Volumizing Mascara

    Kara McGrath

    Why it’s worth it: Packed with ultra-light aero-particles, the Benefit Cosmetics BadGal Bang Volumizing Mascara delivers ample volume without making lashes feel heavy or stiff, while provitamin B5 helps strengthen them over time. The ultra-slim wand reaches from corner to corner to coat every lash. It’s also impressively long-lasting—once it’s on, the brand claims it stays put for up to 36 hours without smudging or flaking. Another bonus: Along with classic black and brown, there’s plum (a deep burgundy that adds subtle drama with just one swipe) and a bright electric blue that’s especially fun for concerts or nights out.

    McGrath before applying the Benefit Cosmetics BadGal Bang Volumizing Mascara

    McGrath before applying the Benefit Cosmetics BadGal Bang Volumizing Mascara

    Kara McGrathMcGrath after applying the Benefit Cosmetics BadGal Bang Volumizing Mascara

    McGrath after applying the Benefit Cosmetics BadGal Bang Volumizing Mascara

    Kara McGrath

    Tester feedback from former content director Kara McGrath

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    "BadGal Bang is one of my favorite lash mascara formulas of all time, so it wasn't exactly shocking that I love the burgundy version too. I know wearing purple eye makeup (even eyeshadow) to contrast green eyes is the oldest trick in the book, but this plum-y brown really does make mine ‘pop’ without it being super obvious that I'm wearing a colorful mascara."—Kara McGrath, former content director

    More to know

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    • Key ingredients: beeswax, carnauba wax
    • Shades: 4 (Wild Plum, Power Blue, Rebel Brown, Intense Pitch Black)
    • Waterproof: no
    • Who it’s for: those who want long-wearing, buildable volume or colorful options

    More Curling Mascaras We Like

    Best Tubing: Grande Cosmetics GrandeWrap Tubing Mascara

    Grande Cosmetics GrandeWrap Tubing Mascara in branded component on a light gray backgroundSave to wishlistSave to wishlist

    Grande Cosmetics

    GrandeWrap Tubing Mascara

    $25

    Nordstrom

    $25

    Dermstore

    $25

    Ulta Beauty

    Why it’s worth it: We love how easily tubing mascaras rinse off, but they don’t always have the best staying power. Thankfully, that’s not an issue with the Grande Cosmetics GrandeWrap Tubing Mascara. The formula uses smudge-proof tubing polymers that wrap around each lash and hold up through long days without flaking or smudging. Conditioning ingredients like provitamin B5 and mango butter help lashes feel soft and flexible.

    In terms of design, the brush features domed bristles at the tip that reach into the inner corners so you can define the entire lash line without missing those tiny hairs. Los Angeles-based makeup artist Nicholas Wlodarski says it’s the best mascara for a “mini lash-lift effect” that makes eyes look wider and more awake. And, when it’s time to take it off, the tubes slide right off with warm water—no rubbing required.

    More to know

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    • Key ingredients: provitamin B5, mango butter
    • Shades: 1 (Black)
    • Waterproof: no
    • Who it’s for: those who want volume and curl that comes off in one swipe

    Best Lightweight: e.l.f. Cosmetics Lash ‘N Roll Mascara

    e.l.f. Cosmetics Lash ‘N Roll Mascara in branded component on a light gray backgroundSave to wishlistSave to wishlist

    E.L.F. Cosmetics

    Lash ‘N Roll Mascara

    $7

    Amazon

    $7

    Ulta Beauty

    Why it’s worth it: E.l.f. Cosmetics Lash ‘N Roll Mascara is the mascara Loiz personally reaches for because it delivers a “lifted, wide-eyed look without feeling heavy or crunchy.” Even better, it’s budget-friendly at a mere $7. The curved brush hugs the lash line and lifts as you swipe, while the lightweight, castor seed oil-infused formula helps hold that curl in place without weighing lashes down. Once it’s on, it stays put—lasting all day without flaking, even if you go back in for a second or third coat.

    More to know

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    • Key ingredients: castor seed oil, carnauba wax
    • Shades: 3 (Pitch Black, Black, Deep Brown)
    • Waterproof: no
    • Who it’s for: those who want visibly lifted lashes

    Frequently Asked Questions

    What should you look for in a curling mascara?

    Loiz always looks for a lightweight formula when it comes to curling mascaras, because too-heavy formulas will drag the curl straight down. “A curved brush that fits along the lash line helps lift from the root,” she adds. She also prefers formulas that dry down to a flexible finish, so the lashes stay lifted without feeling crunchy or flaking, which is also what Wlodarski calls “the sweet spot.” Another key tip: Looking for a waterproof formula will help your lift last through the end of the day.

    What's the difference between curling mascaras and other mascaras?

    Curling mascaras are specifically designed to hold shape rather than just add volume or length, says Loiz. “They usually have a lightweight formula and a curved brush that helps guide the lashes in an upward direction,” she explains. Similar to how an eyelash curler shapes and lifts your lashes, Wlodarski says curling mascaras help your eyes look more open.

    Meet the experts

    • Nicholas Wlodarski is a makeup artist based in Los Angeles.
    • Renée Loiz is a makeup artist based in Los Angeles.
    • Sara Talias is a makeup artist based in New York City.

    How we test and review products

    Before reviewing any makeup, we ask questions about a number of factors: What ingredients are in it? Does the brand offer a wide shade range inclusive of consumers with all skin tones and undertones? Is it safe for readers who have sensitive skin or wear contact lenses? Is it on the affordable side or more of a splurge? Is its packaging consciously designed or needlessly wasteful?

    For our review of the best curling mascaras, we enlisted the help of multiple editors, writers, contributors, and professional makeup artists to review the products. This ensures our testing base spans different skin tones, genders, and dermatological conditions. We considered each product's performance across four primary categories: ingredients, wear and longevity, packaging, and inclusivity. For more on what's involved in our reporting, check out our complete reviews process and methodology page.

    Our staff and testers

    A beauty product is a personal purchase. You might be searching for a face cream to address persistent dryness or a new nail product to add to your Sunday self-care routine; you may simply be browsing around for the latest launches to hit the hair market. No matter what you seek or your individual needs and concerns, Allure wants to ensure that you love anything we recommend in our stories. We believe that having a diverse team of writers and editors—in addition to the wide range of outside testers and industry experts we regularly call upon—is essential to reaching that goal.

  • These Makeup Brush Sets Make Getting Ready So Much Easier

    These Makeup Brush Sets Make Getting Ready So Much Easier

    Image contains Allure editors with their favorite makeup brush sets surrounded by a collage of makeup brushesCollage: Jemeria Davison; Source images: Courtesy of Allure editors and brandsSave StorySave this storySave StorySave this story

    The best makeup brush sets can make getting ready a lot easier. Instead of guessing which brushes you actually need—or ending up with five different fluffy ones that all do the same thing—a well-curated set gives you the essentials in one go. “I love recommending sets because they remove decision fatigue when someone is building their brush collection,” says Thynna Wagenblast, a makeup artist based in New York City and Los Angeles.

    There’s also the practicality factor: Buying a set is usually more cost-effective than picking up each brush individually, and the tools are designed to work together for everything from buffing foundation to blending eye shadow. For beginners, that means less trial and error; for seasoned makeup lovers, it’s an easy way to refresh multiple tools at once. Many sets also come with a brush roll or travel case, which keeps everything organized and protects the bristles when you’re on the go.

    Our Top Makeup Brush Sets

    • Best for Travel: Sigma Beauty Essential Travel Brush Set, $135
    • Best Face Brushes: Morphe Buttery Blends, $28
    • Best Drugstore: Real Techniques Everyday Essentials Makeup Brush & Sponge Set, $19
    • Best for Beginners: Laura Geller 5-Piece Full Face Brush Set, $49

    Frequently Asked QuestionsAccordionItemContainerButtonLargeChevron

    • What’s the difference between synthetic and natural-hair brushes?
    • Can drugstore makeup brushes work as well as expensive ones?
    • How do you clean makeup brushes?
    • Meet the experts
    • How we test and review products
    • Our staff and testers

    When the brushes are thoughtfully designed—think soft, dense fibers and sturdy handles—blending tends to be easier, and your makeup looks that much more polished. Ahead, the sets we reach for most.

    Best for Travel: Sigma Beauty Essential Travel Brush Set

    Sigma Beauty Essential Travel Brush Set in branded components on a light gray backgroundSave to wishlistSave to wishlist

    Sigma Beauty

    Essential Travel Brush Set

    $135

    Ulta Beauty

    Allure beauty closet associate Edward Horgan using the Sigma Beauty Essential Travel Brush Set

    Edward Horgan

    Why it's worth it: Packing makeup for a trip always sounds simple until you're staring at your vanity, wondering which brushes make the cut. Sigma’s Essential Travel Brush Set streamlines things with “a well-edited, versatile set of everything you need for your entire face,” says Nick Barose, a makeup artist based in New York City. The kit includes seven multitasking eye and face brushes that can handle just about anything in your routine, from buffing in foundation to blending shadow or setting concealer.

    Since most of us aren’t exactly washing our makeup brushes mid-trip, it's helpful that these are made with synthetic antimicrobial fibers to resist bacterial buildup. They’re also built for life on the go: The metal sleeves that secure the bristles are made with the brand’s corrosion-resistant SigmaAlloy, helping prevent wobbling or loosening—even after getting jostled around in a suitcase or carry-on. And when you’re done getting ready, everything tucks neatly into a slim carrying case that keeps the brushes protected en route.

    Allure beauty closet associate Edward Horgan before using the Sigma Beauty Essential Travel Brush Set

    Horgan before using the Sigma Beauty Essential Travel Brush Set

    Edward HorganAllure beauty closet associate Edward Horgan after using the Sigma Beauty Essential Travel Brush Set

    Horgan after using the Sigma Beauty Essential Travel Brush Set

    Edward Horgan

    Tester feedback from beauty closet associate Edward Horgan

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    “These brushes have great handles and a nice soft feel on the face! They’re a great size for traveling and I love the fact that they come with a tube case so you can keep them all in one place on a desk or countertop. It’s hard to find quality high performance brushes in a travel size so an essential kit like this is super convenient. Although the brushes are nice, I would’ve preferred one more condensed face brush compared to the angled eye brush it came with. I had to use another brush at my desk for my creams because the face brushes it came with were for liquid and powder specifically.” —Edward Horgan, beauty closet associate

    More to know

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    • Bristle material: synthetic
    • What’s included: 7 brushes and a travel case
    • E30 Pencil Brush (eyeliner brush)
    • E40 Tapered Blending Brush (eye shadow brush)
    • E55 Eye Shading Brush (eye shadow brush)
    • E65 Small Angle Brush (brow/eyeliner brush)
    • F30 Large Powder Brush (powder brush)
    • F40 Large Angled Contour Brush (blush/bronzer brush)
    • F60 Foundation Brush (cream/liquid foundation brush)

    Best Eye Brushes: EcoTools Sea Gems Eye Makeup Brush Set

    EcoTools Sea Gems Eye Makeup Brush Set in branded components on a light gray backgroundSave to wishlistSave to wishlist

    EcoTools

    Sea Gems Eye Makeup Brush Set

    $16

    Ulta Beauty

    Allure senior commerce editor Sarah Felbin using the EcoTools Sea Gems Eye Makeup Brush Set

    Sarah Felbin

    Why it's worth it: If you’ve ever tried doing a full eye look with just one brush, you know it’s a bit like cooking dinner with only a spoon—it technically works, but it’s not exactly ideal. EcoTools’ Sea Gems Eye Makeup Brush Set gives you five multitasking tools so each step of your eye makeup performs the way it’s supposed to. One brush provides an even wash of color, another blends out the crease, a smaller smudge brush softens liner along the lash line, and an angled brush helps place pigment right where you want it. The brushes work with liquid, cream, powder, or stick shadows, so you’re covered no matter your formula of choice.

    Even better: The handles are made with ocean-bound recycled plastic, part of EcoTools’ mission to make beauty tools a little more planet-friendly—and the dreamy, sea-inspired colors give the brushes a subtle beachy vibe that looks pretty cute sitting on your vanity, too.

    Tester feedback from senior commerce editor Sarah Felbin

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    “This brush set actually makes eye shadow feel foolproof. My most used is the All-Over Eye Brush—the larger size and rounded shape are perfect for applying a smooth, seamless wash of color in seconds. I'm also a big fan of the teeny tiny Smudge Brush for sweeping color along my lower lash line or smoking out my eyeliner. The entire set is easy to use, easy to clean, and well-made (no shedding bristles here). Plus, each brush is labeled on the handle, which comes in handy on days when I'm speeding through my makeup routine.” —Sarah Felbin, senior commerce editor

    More to know

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    • Bristle material: synthetic
    • What’s included: 5 cream/powder/liquid eye brushes:
    • All-Over Eye Brush
    • Tapered Eye Brush
    • Blending Eye Brush
    • Smudge Brush
    • Angled Shadow Brush

    Best Face Brushes: Morphe Buttery Blends 4-Piece Face Brush Set

    Morphe Buttery Blends 4-Piece Face Brush Set in branded components on a light gray backgroundSave to wishlistSave to wishlist

    Morphe

    Buttery Blends 4-Piece Face Brush Set

    $28

    Ulta Beauty

    Allure senior editor Jesa Marie Calaor using the Morphe Buttery Blends 4-Piece Face Brush Set

    Jesa Marie Calaor

    Why it's worth it: True to the name, the plush “buttery” bristles in Morphe’s Buttery Blends 4-Piece Face Brush Set make blending feel almost effortless. The set includes four face brushes designed to cover the key steps of your base routine, from buffing out concealer to blending blush and sculpting bronzer. The standout is the medium-angled powder bronzer brush—exclusive to this set—which hugs the natural curves of your cheekbones to softly diffuse color.

    Another perk: The bristles are infused with silver ions, which help inhibit the growth of odor-causing bacteria on the fibers, which is always a nice bonus since you likely use complexion brushes more than the others in your kit. No matter if you’re using creams, liquids, or powders, the plush, soft bristles ensure a flawless blend every time.

    Calaor before using the Morphe Buttery Blends 4Piece Face Brush Set

    Calaor before using the Morphe Buttery Blends 4-Piece Face Brush Set

    Jesa Marie CalaorCalaor after using the Morphe Buttery Blends 4Piece Face Brush Set

    Calaor after using the Morphe Buttery Blends 4-Piece Face Brush Set

    Jesa Marie Calaor

    Tester feedback from senior editor Jesa Marie Calaor

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    “I use this product every day. I don't always use each brush for its intended purposes: For example, I sometimes use the Slanted Blush Brush for bronzer, the Domed Concealer Brush for sculpting my nose, and the Slanted Cream & Liquid Bronzer Brush for my CC cream. But that's the beauty of this set—four brushes can be used for so many different types of product. That's major, especially with how often I travel—I never feel like I left a tool that I need at home. The bristles are so soft and the pouch it comes in is so convenient.” —Jesa Marie Calaor, senior editor

    More to know

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    • Bristle material: synthetic
    • What’s included: 4 complexion brushes:
    • M133 Domed Concealer Brush (cream/liquid concealer brush)
    • M202 Slanted Blush Brush (cream/liquid/powder blush brush)
    • M242 Slanted Cream & Liquid Bronzer Brush (cream/liquid bronzer brush)
    • M244 Medium Angled Powder Bronzer Brush (powder bronzer brush)

    Best Drugstore: Real Techniques Everyday Essentials Makeup Brush & Sponge Set

    Real Techniques Everyday Essentials Makeup Brush & Sponge Set in branded components on a light gray backgroundSave to wishlistSave to wishlist

    Real Techniques

    Everyday Essentials Makeup Brush & Sponge Set

    $19

    Amazon

    $20

    Ulta Beauty

    Why it's worth it: If your makeup routine is more about the basics than full glam—or you need a downsized kit to toss in your carry-on—Real Techniques’ Everyday Essentials Makeup Brush Set is a great place to start. The kit includes four versatile brushes—three for the complexion and one for the eyes—plus the brand’s Miracle Complexion Sponge (a 2025 Best of Beauty winner!), with a unique three-sided design that helps you tap, blend, and buff complexion products with ease.

    “If you’re a newbie or minimalist when it comes to makeup, this set is affordable and versatile,” says Kierra Lanice Wray, a makeup artist based in Lansing, Michigan. “If you don’t have a blush handy but you have bronzer, it’s okay to use the 400 Blush Brush for bronzer,” she says. And the 300 Deluxe Crease Brush isn’t just for shadow: “It also diffuses concealer beautifully.” In other words, you’re covered for face, cheeks, and eyes with just one set.

    Felbin using the Real Techniques Everyday Essentials Makeup Brushes from Felbin

    Sarah FelbinFelbin after using the Real Techniques Everyday Essentials Makeup Brushes from Felbin

    Felbin after using the Real Techniques Everyday Essentials Makeup Brushes from Felbin

    Sarah Felbin

    Tester feedback of the Real Techniques Everyday Essentials Makeup Brushes from Felbin

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    “When I first checked the price on this set, I was shocked—for less than $4 per tool, they perform beautifully and feel much more expensive than they are! The sleek, brushed metal handles have a nice weight to them, and the bristles feel super-soft (plus, they don't fall out as I'm using the brushes). Each brush applies powders and creams flawlessly, making all of my products very easy to blend without disturbing the layers underneath." —Sarah Felbin, senior commerce editor

    Tester feedback of the Real Techniques Miracle Complexion Sponge from senior director of commerce audience & analytics Lexi Herrick

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    “This complexion sponge is really high-quality and effective. I find that it blends well without absorbing too much product, and has a gentle texture that never irritates or rubs too harshly on my skin. It also cleans well and can be used for much longer than many of the makeup sponges I’ve tried.” —Lexi Herrick, senior director of commerce audience & analytics

    More to know

    AccordionItemContainerButtonLargeChevron

    • Bristle material: synthetic
    • What’s included: 3 complexion brushes, 1 eye shadow brush, 1 sponge
    • 400 Blush Brush (powder blush brush)
    • 300 Deluxe Crease Brush (eye shadow brush)
    • 402 Setting Brush (powder blush/highlighter brush)
    • 200 Expert Face Brush (cream/liquid foundation)
    • Sponge

    Best for Advanced Users: Sephora Collection 8-Piece Pro Face and Eye Brush Set

    Sephora Collection 8-Piece Pro Face and Eye Brush Set in branded components on a light gray backgroundSave to wishlistSave to wishlist

    Sephora Collection

    8-Piece Pro Face and Eye Brush Set

    $99

    Sephora

    Why it's worth it: Before you assume an eight-piece brush set is only for makeup artists—or, ahem, beauty editors with overflowing kits—hear us out: Sephora Collection’s 8-Piece Pro Face and Eye Brush Set actually makes your routine easier, not more complicated. The lineup includes eight face and eye brushes that cover the essentials (foundation, powder, blush, highlight, concealer, and eye makeup), so you don’t have to keep improvising with whatever brush is closest.

    Inspired by Sephora’s Pro brush line, each one features ultra-soft vegan fibers that pick up and blend product effortlessly, whether you’re working with powders, creams, or liquids. What’s more, everything comes packed in a sleek case that protects the brushes while you travel and doubles as a handy holder on your vanity—keeping them neatly in place instead of rolling everywhere.

    Allure commerce editor Sarah Han using the Sephora 8-Piece Pro Face and Eye Brush Set

    Sarah HanA selfie of Allure commerce editor Sarah Han holding a black leather container of the Sephora 8Piece Pro Face and Eye...

    Han after using the Sephora 8-Piece Pro Face and Eye Brush Set

    Sarah Han

    Tester feedback from commerce editor Sarah Han

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    “Ever since I picked up the Sephora Pro Bronzer Brush #88 (a Best of Beauty winner!), it’s become my ride-or-die blush brush. It’s perfectly dense—not too much, not too little—key for someone who loves to pack on blush. Yes, I know it’s technically meant for bronzer, but that’s the beauty of this set—you can use whatever feels most comfortable/right for any step. (Likewise, I use the angled Pro Blush Brush for my contour.) While I only started with those two brushes, it made complete sense for me to pick up the entire set. The bristles across the board are so freakin’ soft and pick up pigment beautifully. I like how chic the all-black handles (and silver Sephora logo) look individually and all together, and the chic leather organizer is perfect for longer trips, when I have the suitcase space to plop it into.” —Sarah Han, commerce editor

    More to know

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    • Brush material: synthetic
    • What’s included: 5 complexion brushes, 2 eye shadow brushes, 1 brow brush, and a case
    • #56 Pro Foundation Brush
    • #57 Pro Concealer Brush
    • #59 Pro Powder Brush
    • #93 Pro Blush Brush
    • #98 Pro Highlighter Brush
    • #15 Pro Eyeshadow Brush
    • #27 Pro Crease Brush
    • #20 Pro Brow Brush

    Best for Beginners: Laura Geller 5-Pc Full Face Brush Set

    Laura Geller 5-Pc Full Face Brush Set in branded components on a light gray backgroundSave to wishlistSave to wishlist

    Laura Geller

    5-Pc Full Face Brush Set

    $49

    Amazon

    Why it's worth it: If you’re a newbie, you might be convinced that applying makeup with your fingers works just fine, but the right brushes can make everything look smoother, more blended, and a lot easier. Laura Geller’s 5-Piece Full Face Brush Set is “especially great for beginners because it keeps things simple,” with three face brushes and two eye brushes that cover the essentials without overwhelming you, says Barose.

    The lineup also works particularly well with Laura Geller’s signature baked powders, which are meant to be lightly swirled and buffed into skin. Use the angled brush to sweep on blush or bronzer, the classic bronzer brush to add warmth along the high points of your face, and the retractable airbrush kabuki—a dense, rounded brush with tightly packed bristles that buffs powder or foundation into skin for that smooth, diffused finish. Two eye shadow brushes round out the set for quick washes of color or softly blended smoky looks. They also come with super soft vegan bristles that won’t shed and will keep their shape over time.

    More to know

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    • Brush material: synthetic
    • What’s included: 3 complexion brushes, 2 eye shadow brushes
    • Angled Blush Brush
    • Bronzer Brush
    • Airbrush Kabuki Brush
    • 2 Eyeshadow Brushes

    Best for Sensitive Skin: Hourglass Vegan Brush Travel Set

    Hourglass Vegan Brush Travel Set in branded components on a light gray backgroundSave to wishlistSave to wishlist

    Hourglass

    Vegan Brush Travel Set

    $340

    Nordstrom

    $340

    Sephora

    Why it's worth it: If your skin gets irritated at the mere thought of scratchy makeup brushes, the Hourglass Vegan Travel Brush Set is an investment that makes sense. Each brush is made with ultra-soft, PETA-approved Taklon bristles—a synthetic fiber designed to mimic the feel of natural hair without the proteins that can sometimes trigger irritation. “These high-quality vegan brushes help apply makeup beautifully without the risk of allergic reactions to the bristles,” says Barose. The silky fibers glide over skin, blend seamlessly, and are easy to keep clean. The seven-piece lineup covers all the bases. It includes the dual-ended Ambient Lighting Edit brush for powders, bronzer, blush, and highlighter, along with precision eye brushes. You’ll also find the brand’s Vanish foundation (a 2024 Best of Beauty winner) and concealer brushes, which hug the contours of the face for seamless coverage.

    A few thoughtful details make the set feel especially worth the splurge: Weighted metal handles offer better control while blending, and the sleek bronze case with a vegan leather roll keeps everything protected in transit. With a little care—regular gentle washing and letting them dry flat—they’ll stay soft, clean, and ready to blend for years.

    More to know

    AccordionItemContainerButtonLargeChevron

    • Brush material: synthetic
    • What’s included: 5 complexion brushes, 2 eye shadow brushes
    • Ambient Lighting Edit Brush (powder, blush, bronzer brush)
    • Veil Single Powder brush (setting powder brush)
    • No 14 Detail Setting Brush (powder brush)
    • No 6 Tapered Blender Brush (eye shadow brush)
    • No 12 Beveled Shadow Brush (eye shadow brush)
    • Vanish Seamless Finish Concealer Brush (concealer brush)
    • Vanish Seamless Finish Foundation brush (foundation brush)

    Frequently Asked Questions

    What’s the difference between synthetic and natural-hair brushes?

    The biggest difference between synthetic and natural-hair brushes comes down to the bristles themselves. Natural brushes are typically made from animal hair and can be great for picking up powders, but they may feel rougher on sensitive skin. Synthetic options are made from engineered fibers like Taklon. “Synthetic fibers tend to be gentler and more hygienic than natural hair brushes,” says Wagenblast. “Synthetic bristles are nonporous, so they’re less likely to trap bacteria, oils, or dead skin cells that can cause irritation.” Because of that smooth surface, they’re also easier to clean and tend to work well with a wide range of formulas—from liquids and creams to powders.

    Can drugstore makeup brushes work as well as expensive ones?

    Some of the best brushes don’t come with a luxury price tag. Sets like the Real Techniques’ Everyday Essentials in our roundup above prove you don’t need to spend a fortune for great performance. “It’s one of the besdrugstore brush kitst drugstore brush kits because it delivers professional performance at a very accessible price,” says Wagenblast. The brushes are “incredibly soft but still dense enough to pick up and distribute product evenly,” making them effective with both creams and powders. Wagenblast also notes that durability matters: These brushes “hold their shape and softness even after frequent washing,” which isn’t always the case with cheaper tools.

    How do you clean makeup brushes?

    Cleaning your makeup brushes regularly helps prevent product buildup, bacteria, and skin irritation. “I always recommend washing brushes at least once a week with a gentle cleanser like baby shampoo to keep them clean and maintain that softness,” says Wagenblast. To do it properly, swirl the brush bristles in lukewarm water with cleanser, gently massage out makeup residue, then rinse thoroughly. Once you’re done, just reshape the bristles and lay the brushes flat on a towel to dry. This way, you’ll avoid water messing with the glue inside the handle and keep the brush heads in good shape.

    Meet the experts

    • Nick Barose, a makeup artist based in New York City
    • Thynna Wagenblast, a makeup artist based in New York City and Los Angeles
    • Kierra Lanice Wray, a makeup artist based in Lansing, Michigan

    How we test and review products

    When Allure tests a product, our editors look at it from every angle in an effort to best serve you. We review ingredients, scrutinize brand claims, and, when necessary, examine peer-reviewed scientific and medical studies. In addition to testing each and every product that’s included in each and every review, we rely on experts who shape their fields, including dermatology, cosmetic chemistry, and medicine, to help us vet the ingredients and formulas.

    For our list of the best makeup brush sets, we considered each product’s performance across five primary categories: product ingredients and efficacy, packaging, fragrance, texture, and product wear. Every product was determined to have excelled in each category by our editorial team, which is composed of in-house writers and editors as well as contributors—along with special consideration from dermatologists. To learn more information on our reporting and testing processes, read our complete reviews process and methodology page.

    Our staff and testers

    A beauty product is a personal purchase. You might be searching for a face cream to address persistent dryness or a new nail product to add to your Sunday self-care routine; you may simply be browsing around for the latest launches to hit the hair market. No matter what you seek or your individual needs and concerns, Allure wants to ensure that you love anything we recommend in our stories. We believe that having a diverse team of writers and editors—in addition to the wide range of outside testers and industry experts we regularly call upon—is essential to reaching that goal.

    After all, can we really say a skin-care product is the “best” for people over 50 if the only testers we’ve solicited opinions from folks who have yet to hit 30? Can we honestly deem a high-end diffuser worthy of your hard-earned cash if it’s never been tested on curls? We’re proud that our staff spans a wide range of ages, skin tones, hair textures, genders, and backgrounds, which means that we are able to fairly assess any beauty product that comes into the beauty closet.