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Hot apple cider. Oversized scarves. Chunky socks and boots. I love fall, and the products in October’s Allure Beauty Box are bringing big autumnal vibes. There’s a brightening serum to keep your skin glowing long after vacation, a color-protecting shampoo to help maintain your summer highlights, and a gourmand fragrance with notes of sweet vanilla and earthy amber that linger on skin like a warm hug. Top it all off with eye makeup essentials—a pro-approved brow pencil, an extra-sharp black eyeliner, and a lash conditioner for longer length—and you’ve got the perfect transitional routine. Now, bring on the pumpkin spice lattes!

Unbox It:

• Your first box is only $10 (with code BEAUTY), but it's worth over $199
• Even better: if you sign up for an annual subscription, you get a bonus gift of the YSL Libre L'Eau Nue Parfum de Peau ($110 Value!)

New Member Gift: 'Ôrəbella NIGHTCAP Skin Parfum

Why you’ll love it: A deliciously addictive gourmand that feels like a warm embrace. Cozy vanilla and rich woods are laced with sparkling ginger and cardamom for a spicy-sweet twist that’s both comforting and irresistible.

How you’ll use it: Give the bottle a shake to activate, then spritz onto pulse points—wrists, neck, or décolleté.

GET THE BOX

Anastasia Beverly Hills Brow Wiz in Taupe, Soft Brown, Medium Brown, or Dark Brown

Why you’ll love it: This iconic brow pencil is well-loved in the industry (and in the Allure office) for its ultrathin, retractable tube—no sharpener needed—and its ability to easily shape and fill in sparse sections with hair-like strokes. You chose which one you’d receive from the four great shades listed above.

How you’ll use it: Start with the spoolie side to brush up your brows, followed by the pencil side to create quick strokes that mimic the look of hair. Just be sure to go in the direction of your brow’s natural shape and growth.

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Nulastin LASH Follicle Fortifying Serum

Why you’ll love it: Patience is the name of the game when it comes to lash serums. And after using this conditioner—formulated with powerful peptides, hydrating glycerin, and strengthening keratin—twice a day for at least six weeks, you’ll notice longer, more lush-looking lashes, no mascara required.

How you’ll use it: With the brush applicator, draw a thin line from the inner corner to the outer edge on the upper lash line only. Repeat morning and night on clean, dry lids.

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Color Wow Color Security Shampoo

Why you’ll love it: Extend the life of your summer shade with help from this sulfate- and silicone-free shampoo that simultaneously brightens strands as it cleanses them.

How you’ll use it: Apply a dollop (or two, depending on your hair type) to wet hair and massage it into a lather, moving from the scalp to your ends. Rinse and repeat, if necessary. Retail price: $24 for 250 ml. (75 ml. included in box)

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Ofra Eyeliner Pencil in Black

Why you’ll love it: Everyone needs a classic black eyeliner in their makeup bag, and this pencil is one you’ll keep coming back to for its super-sharp tip, smooth glide, and water-resistant formula.

How you’ll use it: Use it to line lids, waterlines, or smudge it out for a sultry, smoky eye.

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RealHer Magic Black to Pink Watery Lip Stain

Why you’ll love it: Don’t be afraid of this spooky shade—that’s the magic of it. In the tube, it’s a glittery gray hue, but on the lips, the pH-reactive formula works with your body chemistry to transition into a pretty pink tint.

How you’ll use it: Trace outside of lips with your favorite liner before painting on a layer or two of this color-changing stain with the wide, doe-foot applicator. Then watch it transform in real time!

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Sephora Collection Super Brightening Serum

Why you’ll love it: An antioxidant-packed treatment made with 7% vitamin C—along with nourishing vitamin E—that not only helps reduce dark spots and fine lines, it also protects skin from icky outside pollution. The lovely, post-application glow is just the icing on the skin-care cake.

How you’ll use it: After cleansing, squeeze a couple of drops into the palm of your hand, then gently massage the serum into cheeks, forehead, and neck. Follow it up with your favorite moisturizer—and don’t forget the sunscreen!

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Tocca Laila Eau de Parfum

Why you’ll love it: Trade in your fruity fragrance for something a little more of the season, like this sweet and sophisticated gourmand perfume. It opens with a splash of citrus, then settles to a warm, second-skin scent with creamy vanilla and earthy amber.

How you’ll use it: Spritz onto the back of your wrists and into hair for all-day wear. Then let the, “You smell so good!” compliments roll in.

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MySmile Teeth Whitening Strips

Why you’ll love it: Whether you have a big event coming up or are freshening your smile after too many summertime iced coffees, these sensitive teeth-friendly whitening strips brighten in virtually no time, thanks to stain-removing hydrogen peroxide and soothing aloe.

How you’ll use it: After brushing, adhere strips to both rows of teeth, making sure to line up evenly. Then, turn on your favorite feel-good show (we love New Girl) and let the brightening begin. Remove after 30 to 45 minutes.

GET THE BOX

Collage: Paula Balondo; Source images: Courtesy of Allure editors and brandsSave StorySave this storySave StorySave this story

All products featured on Allure are independently selected by our editors. However, we may receive compensation from retailers and/or from purchases of products through these links.

Curly hair flourishes when you embrace its natural texture, but if you're aiming for a more defined look with your hair styling, the best curl cream can make a world of difference in keeping those spirals intact. That's easier said than done, though: The journey to discovering your perfect formula can be tricky, especially when dealing with frizz and humidity.

Intended for hair types 2A to 4C, these oil-infused, hold-boosting formulas can enhance your natural curls by adding definition, taming frizz, and amplifying shine all at once. Unlike hair gels and mousses, creams work by coating each strand with nourishing ingredients that help natural hair maintain its curl shape while preventing moisture loss throughout the day. For wavy hair, these creams work especially well when applied with scrunching techniques to encourage natural wave formation.

Our Favorite Curl Creams

• Best Overall: Aveda Be Curly Advanced Curl Enhancing Cream, $36
• Best for Curl Definition: Fenty Hair The Homecurl Curl-Defining Cream, $31
• Best for Damaged Hair: Curlsmith Awestruck Definition Cream, $32
• Best for Fine Hair: Ouai Curl Crème, $32
• Best Drugstore: SheaMoisture Kalahari Melon Oil Curl Stretch Multi-Tasking Volume, $11
• Best for Twist-Outs: The Doux C.R.E.A.M. Twist & Curl Cream, $16
• Best for Coily Hair: Matrix A Curl Can Dream, $21
• Best for Frizzy Hair: Marc Anthony Strictly Curls Curl Envy Cream, $8
• Best for Wash and Go Styles: Mielle Organics Brazilian Curly Cocktail Curl Cream, $14
• Best for Mixed Curl Patterns: Briogeo Curl Charisma Rice Amino + Avocado Leave-In Defining Cream, $24
• Best for Dry Hair: Ouidad Curl Quencher Hydrafusion Intense Curl Cream, $26

Frequently Asked QuestionsAccordionItemContainerButtonLargeChevron

• What should you look for in a curl cream?
• Is it better to put curl cream on wet or dry hair?
• Is mousse better than curl cream?
• Meet the experts
• How we test and review products
• Our staff and testers

Best of all, using a curl cream is pretty effortless—in fact, the less you do, the better. Don’t touch or fluff your hair until it’s fully dry, or you risk disturbing the shape and creating frizz, says New York-based hairstylist Cataanda James.

Don’t know where to start? We've curated a list of the best curl creams, butters, and leave-ins to suit every texture and curl pattern. With these carefully selected picks from Allure editors and experts, you'll have dreamy waves, coils, and curls in no time.

Best Overall: Aveda Be Curly Advanced Curl Enhancing Cream

Aveda

Be Curly Advanced Curl Enhancing Cream

$36

Aveda

Allure commerce producer Sarah Hoffmann applying the Aveda Be Curly Advanced Curl Enhancer Cream

Sarah Hoffmann

Why we love it: If your curls constantly feel like they’re running on empty, this cream delivers the tall drink of water they’ve been craving. Aveda’s Be Curly Advanced Curl Enhancer Cream hydrates hair while also keeping frizz at bay for up to 72 hours. The payoff? Softer, shinier, and more defined strands that hold their shape. Its curl-perfecting peptide penetrates deep into fragile hair with 17 essential amino acids, strengthening from within while helping curls and waves maintain bounce. Kokum seed butter provides slip, making detangling easier and minimizing breakage, while adding long-lasting moisture and a frizz-free shape. Add in a refreshing citrus aroma, and this styler turns hydration into both a treatment and a sensorial experience.

Hoffmann before applying the Aveda Be Curly Advanced Curl Enhancer Cream

Sarah Hoffmann

Hoffmann after applying the Aveda Be Curly Advanced Curl Enhancer Cream

Sarah Hoffmann

Tester feedback from commerce producer Sarah Hoffmann

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“Don't tell the other curl creams I've tried for work recently, but I'll always come back to Aveda. I scrunch about a nickel-sized amount through wet hair every time I shower, and my curls always turn out springy, soft, and shiny. My hair is pretty fine, so it's easily weighed down by curl products if I'm not careful, but I can be pretty reckless with the amount of this curl cream I use and it comes out perfect every time.” —Sarah Hoffmann, commerce producer

More to know

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• Key ingredients: kokum seed butter, vegan curl-perfecting peptide, amino acids
• Who it’s for: wavy and curly hair
• Silicone-free: yes
• Scent: lemon, orange, and bergamot

Best for Curl Definition: Fenty Hair The Homecurl Curl-Defining Cream

Fenty Hair

The Homecurl Curl-Defining Cream

$31

Sephora

$31

Kohl's

Allure beauty closet associate Edward Horgan applying the Fenty Hair The Homecurl Curl-Defining Cream

Edward Horgan

Why we love it: Fenty Hair’s The Homecurl Curl-Defining Styling Cream is designed to take the guesswork out of curl styling by combining curl control, hydration, and frizz protection in one easy step. The gel-cream hybrid spreads easily through damp strands, coating each curl from root to tip without weighing it down or leaving a crunchy cast. The formula’s standout is Rihanna’s proprietary Replenicore-5 complex, a blend that helps repair split ends, strengthen strands, and shield against environmental stressors; it’s paired with wild mango butter, which deeply moisturizes curls throughout the day. This is a curl cream that enhances natural curl patterns while keeping volume and definition intact.

Horgan before applying the Fenty Hair The Homecurl Curl-Defining Cream

Edward Horgan

Horgan after applying the Fenty Hair The Homecurl Curl-Defining Cream

Edward Horgan

Tester feedback from beauty closet associate Edward Horgan

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"This is one of the only curl creams that gives me the perfect hold without that crunchy feel that we all hate. It keeps my hair hydrated and in place all day and has a scent that people consistently compliment whenever I use it."

More to know

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• Key ingredients: wild mango butter, green tea extract, hydrolyzed vegetable protein
• Who it’s for: all curl types
• Silicone-free: yes
• Scent: yuzu, amber, freesia, coconut, lily of the valley, vanilla, and sandalwood

Best for Damaged Curls: Curlsmith Awestruck Definition Cream

Curlsmith

Awestruck Definition Cream

$32

Ulta Beauty

Allure shopping director Shanna Shipin applying the Curlsmith Awestruck Definition Cream

Shanna Shipin

Why we love it: When you crave definition without the stiffness, a soft-hold styler delivers. Curlsmith’s Awestruck Definition Cream strikes that perfect balance, enhancing curls and waves while maintaining their natural bounce. To call it a cream would be an understatement: It actually uses a unique gel-in-oil technology to deliver mid-level hold with a soft, flexible, and touchable feel. It also has built-in heat and UV protection, making it ideal if you're working with heat-styled, color-treated, or otherwise damaged hair, and controls frizz and defines curls for days (and days).

Shipin before applying the Curlsmith Awestruck Definition Cream

Shanna Shipin

Shipin after applying the Curlsmith Awestruck Definition Cream

Shanna Shipin

Tester feedback from shopping director Shanna Shipin

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“It’s not dramatic to say that I was genuinely awestruck (as the name would suggest!) by this product from Curlsmith. It’s extremely lightweight and has a hold similar to that of a flexible gel or soft-hold jelly—but the difference is that this styling cream can truly define a pattern out of a fried and frizzled mess of hair. Having put my hair through the wringer, I can tell you: This cream works miracles. It speeds up the replenishment process and helps you find your curl pattern again after months or years of heat styling. I go from S-shaped waves to coily, bouncy curls—with hair that looks hydrated and split-end-free. If you want more frizz control, you’ll want to layer in the Moisture Memory Release spray before using the cream. But when using this styler, I don’t even need to use a gel for juicy curls all day—it’s that good! If you have thick, heavy hair that doesn't quite work with the brand's popular Air Dry Cream, you've got to give this one a try.” —Shanna Shipin, shopping director

More to know

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• Key ingredients: apricot kernel oil, avocado oil, sunflower seed extract
• Who it’s for: all curl types
• Silicone-free: yes
• Scent: n/a

Best for Fine Hair: Ouai Curl Crème

Ouai

Curl Crème

$32

Amazon

$32

Ulta Beauty

$32

Revolve

Why it's worth it: Jen Atkin might be a hair queen in her own right but she tapped 150 people in her network to test and co-create a do-it-all curl cream. Our editors with 2B, 2C, and 3C/4A curl types fell in love with the sweet-smelling, lightweight Curl Crème. A blend of chia and linseed oils add shape and protect hair from humidity, while babassu oil brings in the shine. Unfortunately, there isn't a fragrance-free formula (like there used to be), so people who are sensitive to scents (or prefer not to use scented styling products), keep that in mind.

Allure contributing commerce editor Deanna Pai applying the Ouai Curl Crème

Deanna Pai

Pai after applying the Ouai Curl Crème

Deanna Pai

Tester feedback from contributing commerce editor Deanna Pai

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“I tend to reach for leave-in conditioners since my hair is so dense but fine. But when I want more defined curls and extra bounce, I go to this. It’s easy to scrunch into hair but never weighs down my hair at the crown or on the ends.”

More to know

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• Key ingredients: apricot kernel oil, avocado oil, sunflower seed extract
• Who it’s for: types 2 and 3 curls
• Silicone-free: yes
• Scent: bergamot, apple blossom, raspberry

More curl creams we love:

Best Drugstore: SheaMoisture Kalahari Melon Oil Curl Stretch Multi-Tasking Volume Cream

SheaMoisture

Kalahari Melon Oil Curl Stretch Multi-Tasking Volume Cream

$14 $11 (21% off)

Amazon

$16

Ulta Beauty

Why we love it: Shrinkage can make type 4 curls feel like they never reach their full potential, but SheaMoisture’s Kalahari Melon Oil Curl Stretch Multi-Tasking Volume Cream was designed to change that. This 2025 Best of Beauty Award winner delivers five days of definition, flexible hold, and volume while addressing the main culprits of shrinkage: dryness, breakage, and tangles. The formula combines hyaluronic serum, activated coconut oil, and Kalahari melon oil to deeply hydrate, condition, and elongate curls, giving them both length and resilience. The slip makes detangling easy, helping curls stay smooth and defined without breakage. And to top it off, the mango, rose, and vanilla scent adds an indulgent finishing touch.

Tester feedback from editor in chief Jessica Cruel

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"Slipping and sliding! That is what my coils were doing after I applied this cream. It has amazing slip that helped detangle but also brought every individual curl to life. It works best when applied to wet hair for either a wash and go or twist out. Bonus points: Use a dryer to set the length instead of airdrying. One con is that it can't stand up to high Georgia humidity. However, it's got a soft hold for touchable definition." —Jessica Cruel, editor in chief

More to know

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• Key ingredients: hyaluronic serum, kalahari melon oil, activated coconut oil
• Who it’s for: type 4 hair
• Silicone-free: no
• Scent: mango, rose, and vanilla

Best for Twist-Outs: The Doux C.R.E.A.M. Twist & Curl Cream

The Doux

C.R.E.A.M. Twist & Curl Cream

$16 $15 (6% off)

Amazon

Why we love it: The satisfaction of a plump and bouncy twist out is unmatched, but to execute it, you need the right cream, a.k.a. The Doux’s C.R.E.A.M. Twist & Curl Cream. This moisture-heavy formula fights shrinkage, keeping curls elongated, bouncy, and soft. It coats strands with slip that makes twisting, coiling, or shingling a smooth process. Coconut oil helps minimize shrinkage so your hard-earned length stays visible, while rose water boosts elasticity, and vitamin E adds protection and hydration. The result is curls and twists that stay defined, moisturized, and resilient for days. You’ll minimize breakage, maximize length, and give your hair’s natural texture the spotlight it deserves.

Expert feedback from hairstylist Cataanda James

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"The Doux C.R.E.A.M. Twist & Curl Cream is king! It is a top-shelf pick for myself and my clients who want high definition and bouncy curls in a variety of styles. The Doux mastered this mix, and it is a true-to-form cream in every sense of the word. It's smooth, dense, and combats shrinkage for long-lasting elongated curls while intensifying curl formation and moisture retention. The slip factor allows for ease in distribution from root to tip!" —Cataanda James, hairstylist

More to know

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• Key ingredients: coconut oil, rose water, vitamin E
• Who it’s for: curly and coily hair
• Silicone-free: no
• Scent: Fragrance-Free

Best for Coily Hair: Matrix A Curl Can Dream

Matrix

A Curl Can Dream

$21

Amazon

$21

Ulta Beauty

Why we love it: Coily textures need extra moisture and protection, and Matrix’s A Curl Can Dream Moisturizing Cream delivers both in one step. Infused with manuka honey extract, this rich formula wraps coils and kinks in lasting hydration while guarding against heat up to 450 degrees. It defines without stiffness or flaking, making it just as reliable for a rod set as it is for a blow-dry or diffuse. By sealing in moisture and smoothing each strand, it keeps coils soft, springy, and uniform long after wash day. For anyone balancing the delicacy of coils with the need for versatility, this cream is the kind of multitasker that earns a permanent spot in your hair routine.

Expert feedback from James

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“I love Matrix A Curl Can Dream because it is a professional line that was specifically formulated for curl types 3 and 4. What this means is that, from concept to completion, this Curl Preserving System was designed to bring solutions to the nuances of higher curl patterns, which explains the foolproof results I’ve [experienced since using] it on my clients' 3C/4A hair for the first time. It hydrates and provides definition on types 3 and 4 without flakes or crunch! It works best on clean, wet hair (do not towel dry).” —Cataanda James, hairstylist

More to know

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• Key ingredients: manuka honey extract
• Who it’s for: curly and coily hair
• Silicone-free: yes
• Scent: n/a

Best for Frizzy Hair: Marc Anthony Strictly Curls Curl Envy Cream

Marc Anthony

Strictly Curls Curl Envy Cream

$8

Amazon

$9

Walmart

Why we love it: Your curls won’t stand a chance on high humidity days—unless your strands are set in place with Marc Anthony’s Strictly Curls Curl Envy Cream. The formula smooths and softens curls while actively blocking airborne moisture that typically causes expansion and shape loss. Enriched with nourishing shea butter, moisturizing avocado oil, and antioxidant vitamin E, it delivers sustained hydration and frizz control without sacrificing bounce. Silk proteins fortify each strand and enhance manageability, delivering definition minus the crunch. From loose waves to tight coils, this versatile cream locks in your desired shape while resisting even the most challenging humidity. However, ““the viscosity is similar to a deep conditioner, so be sure not to over-apply,” warns James.

Expert feedback from James

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“Marc Anthony Strictly Curls Curl Envy Cream is my go-to for humidity-resistant, free-flowing curls with definition. For curly girls with 2-3C curls that want maximum curl definition without the coated feel that other cream formulas containing emollients deliver, this is the perfect solution. If you are a wash ‘n go girlie that has experienced the highly visible white cast while setting your hair to air dry, you know the short- and long-term benefits of NO white residue! You can literally wash and go, and that is really significant and allows for you to truly set it and forget it! [And for] more dense curl patterns, it dupes as the perfect primer before a styler because of its lightweight finish.” —Cataanda James, hairstylist

More to know

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• Key ingredients: shea butter, avocado oil, vitamin E
• Who it’s for: frizz-prone, wavy and curly hair
• Silicone-free: no
• Scent: n/a

Best for Wash and Go Styles: Mielle Organics Brazilian Curly Cocktail Curl Cream

Mielle Organics

Brazilian Curly Cocktail Curl Cream

$15

Ulta Beauty

Why we love it: Few things feel better than stepping out with a soft and defined wash and go, especially one in collaboration with Mielle’s Babassu & Mint Brazilian Curly Cocktail Curl Cream. Formulated with a powerhouse blend of Brazilian oils like babassu, buriti, copaiba, and murumuru, this hair-care essential quenches thirsty strands while securing long-lasting definition. The result is curls that look smoother, feel bouncier, and stay uniform long after styling. Its rich yet lightweight texture makes it versatile enough for wash-and-gos or rod sets, giving curls the freedom to hold their shape without any crunch. With nourishing fatty acids that ease detangling and add shine, this formula treats your hair and prevents damage in the process.

Expert feedback from James

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"Mielle Organics Brazilian Curly Cocktail Curl Cream performs like a styler with firm hold but provides all the moisture a curly girl needs for soft, pliable curls. Tthe texture is very thick and dense, so I like to warm it up by rubbing it between my fingertips and work it upwards onto the strands to set the curls." —Cataanda James, hairstylist

More to know

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• Key ingredients: babassu oil, buriti oil, copaiba oil
• Who it’s for: dry and curly hair
• Silicone-free: no
• Scent: n/a

Best for Mixed Curl Patterns: Briogeo Curl Charisma Rice Amino + Avocado Leave-In Defining Cream

Briogeo

Curl Charisma Rice Amino + Avocado Leave-In Defining Cream

$24

Amazon

$24

Dermstore

$24

Ulta Beauty

Why we love it: Defined curls don’t happen by accident. They need the right balance of moisture and control, and Briogeo Curl Charisma Rice Amino + Avocado Leave-In Defining Crème gets it exactly right. Rice amino acids and tomato fruit ferment work together to seal the cuticle and lock in your natural curl pattern, while avocado oil and quinoa extract provide weightless hydration that keeps strands soft and flexible. The result is that 3A and 4C curls alike stay uniform, hold their shape all day, and never feel crunchy. The best part? Definition doesn't fade after day one; the formula locks in curl structure that withstands humidity and movement for days on end.

Editor Tip

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Scrunch the cream into damp curls for natural definition, then let it air-dry for soft, touchable curls that last all day.

More to know

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• Key ingredients: rice bran oil, rooibos tea, shea butter
• Who it’s for: mixed curl patterns
• Silicone-free: yes
• Scent: citrus

Best for Dry Hair: Ouidad Curl Quencher Hydrafusion Intense Curl Cream

Ouidad

Curl Quencher Hydrafusion Intense Curl Cream

$26 $18 (31% off)

Amazon

Why we love it: Ouidad Curl Quencher Hydrafusion Intense Curl Cream is guaranteed to restore life to your dried-out, frizzy curls, thanks to ingredients like curl-defining milk thistle and sweet almond and damage-repairing wheat protein. There's no shortage of hydration, either, with a bursting blend of chamomile, hydrolyzed silk, and meadowfoam seed and corn oils. Pro tip: Apply to extra-wet hair to lock moisture in.

Expert feedback from hairstylist Lana Hunter

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“This is a major key for luscious, juicy type 3 curls and up," hairstylist Hunter attests, says of this paraben-, sulfate-, and mineral oil-free formula. "This curl cream will eliminate the use of unnecessary products and works amazingly alone."

More to know

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• Key ingredients: sweet almond oil, soybean seed extract, milk thistle
• Who it’s for: dry and curly hair
• Silicone-free: yes
• Scent: almond

Frequently Asked Questions

What should you look for in a curl cream?

When choosing a curl cream, focus on ingredients that hydrate and define without leaving your curls feeling greasy or weighed down. "Curl creams should be free from synthetic ingredients like amodimethicone and dimethicone," says Joseph. "Also avoid oils or butters that just sit on top of the hair, leaving behind a greasy residue." Instead, look for lightweight ingredients like shea butter or argan oil that soak into your strands, giving you soft, touchable curls with plenty of definition.

It’s also a good idea to avoid alcohol, which can dry out curls and strip them of moisture. A good curl cream should feel creamy (but not too heavy) and distribute easily from root to tip. Keep an eye out for humectants like glycerin or aloe vera, which draw moisture into the hair, keeping your curls hydrated and bouncy. These ingredients help fight frizz while keeping your curls soft and full of life.

Is it better to put curl cream on wet or dry hair?

For curls that pop, the secret is in how wet your hair is when you apply the product. "It’s 100% better to apply any styling product—cream, gel, and/or mousse—on soaking wet hair," says Rae. "Curly hair is more prone to dryness, so we require so much water. Curl-friendly products are activated with water, so it won’t weigh our hair down." In other words, moisture is your curls’ best friend.

Joseph agrees: "Apply creams to super wet hair to elongate curls and retain length,” he says. “Apply to damp hair to increase spring factor, making the hair fuller and the curls tighter." So depending on your vibe—whether you want more stretched-out, relaxed curls or tighter, bouncier coils—just how wet your hair is can make all the difference.

Is mousse better than curl cream?

The answer really depends on what kind of curls you’re after. Mousse is your go-to if you want more volume and hold—perfect for styles that need a little more structure and definition. On the flip side, curl creams are all about hydration and nourishment, giving you softer, more touchable curls. "I tend to apply mousses over creams to get ultimate nourishment without losing control and hold," says Joseph. "This combo will create soft, touchable, lived-in curls with enough hydration and definition to look like you just left the salon." So, if you’re craving defined curls with some staying power, try layering mousse over cream for the best of both worlds.

Meet the experts

• Evan Joseph, curly hair educator and owner of Evan Joseph Salon in San Diego, CA
• Kiana Rae, curl specialist and owner of West Coast Curls in Los Angeles, CA
• Alex Mouneu, LA-based texture specialist
• Cynthia Alvarez, a celebrity hairstylist in New York, NY and Los Angeles, CA
• Ginger King, cosmetic chemist in Edison, New Jersey
• Lana Hun, hairstylist and curl specialist in Los Angeles, CA
• Leigh Hardges, hairstylist in Chicago, IL
• Kristin Ess, celebrity hairstylist and founder of Kristin Ess Hair in Los Angeles, CA

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 curl creams, we enlisted the help of multiple editors, writers, contributors, and hairstylists—who know how to manage curly 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.

Collage: Gabrielle Langdon; Source images: Courtesy of brands

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All products featured on Allure are independently selected by our editors. However, we may receive compensation from retailers and/or from purchases of products through these links.

The best cream blushes are your cheat code for a fresh, healthy-looking glow in an instant—just dab, blend, and go. Unlike most powders, these buttery cheek tints add a radiant sheen to skin that mimics the effects of an hour-long jog on the beach or a luxurious facial. On top of their dewy finishes, cream blushes tend to be more buildable (read: forgiving) than powder or liquid variations—so, if you suffer from blush blindness, a cream-based option is your key to a more natural effect. Curious to know which ones made the Allure cut? Keep scrolling to shop the cream blushes that have stolen our hearts (and our shelf space).

Our Top Cream Blushes

• Best Overall: Nars the Multiple, $40
• Best Splurge: Chanel Joues Contraste Intense Cream-to-Powder Blush, $55
• Best Blurring: Danessa Myricks Beauty Yummy Skin Blurring Balm Powder Flushed, $27
• Best Multipurpose: Tower 28 Beach Please Cream Blush, $20
• Best Matte Finish: Charlotte Tilbury Pillow Talk Matte Beauty Blush Wand, $42
• Best Sheer Finish: Summer Fridays Blush Butter Balm, $26
• Best Satin Finish: Westman Atelier Baby Cheeks Blush Stick, $48
• Best Dewy Finish: Basma The Cream Blush, $28

Frequently Asked QuestionsAccordionItemContainerButtonLargeChevron

• Is cream blush better than powder blush?
• How should I apply cream blush?
• Meet the experts
• How we test and review products
• Our staff and testers

Best Overall: Nars the Multiple

Nars

The Multiple

$40

Nars

Allure commerce producer Sarah Hoffmann applying Nars’s The Multiple

Sarah Hoffmann

Why it’s worth it: Designed to complement the breeziest of beauty regimens, Nars The Multiple makes applying blush feel effortless. This 2025 Best of Beauty Award winner melts into skin with the tip of a finger, builds easily, and comes in 12 shades that deliver that just-right flush on cheeks, lids, or lips—hence the name. First launched in 1996, this icon has been revamped nearly three decades later with a new, skin-loving formula powered by nourishing peach kernel oil, antioxidant-rich rhubarb fruit extract, and soft-focus blurring powders. The result is a blurred finish that feels lighter, blends smoother, and packs more pigment—earning it our top overall spot.

Hoffmann before applying Nars’s The Multiple

Sarah Hoffmann

Hoffmann after applying Nars’s The Multiple

Sarah Hoffmann

Tester feedback from Allure commerce producer Sarah Hoffmann

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“A Nars Multiple is one of the first beauty products I ever bought back when I invented being a Sephora teen in 2010. It cost at least a few evenings of babysitting and I was so excited about it I kept the box for months—I'm not kidding. The recent reformulation is everything a nostalgic shopper like me could want. It's the same buttery texture I remember, but now it's even more blendable, silkier, and glowier. I'm not sure how it manages to be the perfect texture and shade for both lips and cheeks, but the cosmetic chemists at Nars cooked up something truly special here.” —Sarah Hoffmann, commerce producer

More to know

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• Key ingredients: peach kernel oil, rhubarb fruit extract, silica and mica (blurring powders)
• Finish: natural
• Shades: 12

Best Splurge: Chanel Joues Contraste Intense Cream-to-Powder Blush

Chanel

Joues Contraste Intense Blush

$55

Chanel

$55

Ulta Beauty

Allure commerce editor Sarah Han applying the Chanel Joues Contraste Intense Cream-to-Powder Blush

Sarah Han

Why it's worth it: For those who can't quit a classic compact, Chanel Joues Contraste Intense Cream-to-Powder Blush delivers a wash of color in a convenient format. The formula is packed with buttery emollients and sage oil, offering the buttery feel of a cream blush with the extended wear of a powder. We like the smooth, seamless feel and have found that the color is customizable: Use your fingers to apply a bold pop, or buff it in with a brush for a sheer finish.

Han before applying the Chanel Joues Contraste Intense Cream-to-Powder Blush

Sarah Han

Han after applying the Chanel Joues Contraste Intense Cream-to-Powder Blush

Sarah Han

Tester feedback from Allure commerce editor Sarah Han

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"I'm pretty heavy-handed with my blush (not necessarily a bad thing) but I appreciate how truly buildable this Chanel formula is. Despite how intense the color looks in the pan, it applies sheerer than one'd expect (even with a relatively dense brush), so I can build it up to my desired level and not risk looking more sunburnt than sun-kissed. It's also sheerer in comparison to other cream blushes but you can still go brush-less and pick up pigment by swirling your fingers into it. True to its name, it leaves behind a powdery, weightless veil. It's not the most long-lasting on its own, so I'd wouldn't skip primer when using this." —Sarah Han, commerce editor

More to know

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• Key ingredients: chia seed oil
• Finish: radiant
• Shades: 5

Best Blurring: Danessa Myricks Beauty Yummy Skin Blurring Balm Powder Flushed

Danessa Myricks Beauty

Yummy Skin Blurring Balm Powder Flushed

$27

Sephora

$27

Kohl's

$27

Danessa Myricks Beauty

Han applying the Danessa Myricks Beauty Yummy Skin Blurring Balm Powder Flushed

Sarah Han

Why it's worth it: Danessa Myricks Beauty's Yummy Skin Blurring Balm Powder Flushed is a follow-up to the brand's Best of Beauty Award-winning balm-to-powder foundation, so it's a given that we'd love this blush at first swipe. Just like its predecessor, this formula applies like a creamy balm and dries down to a powder-like matte texture, allowing for a more natural-looking flush. (We found that it works best applied with a brush instead of your fingertips, however, since it dries down pretty quickly.) The seven shades also deserve a shoutout for their vibrant pigments, which can be blended out for subtlety or layered for a more dramatic effect.

Han before applying the Danessa Myricks Beauty Yummy Skin Blurring Balm Powder Flushed

Sarah Han

Han after applying the Danessa Myricks Beauty Yummy Skin Blurring Balm Powder Flushed

Sarah Han

Allure associate beauty editor Annie Blay-Tettey before applying the Danessa Myricks Beauty Yummy Skin Blurring Balm Powder Flushed

Annie Blay-Tettey

Allure associate beauty editor Annie Blay-Tettey after applying the Danessa Myricks Beauty Yummy Skin Blurring Balm Powder Flushed

Tester feedback from Allure associate beauty editor Annie Blay-Tettey

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"I was wowed at the amount of pigment I got from just a few taps in the blush pan and how it played with my foundation and concealer to create a seamless blend. Also, as pigmented as the blush is, it's not overwhelming. You can build it up for a bold flush of color or just add a subtle tinge of rosiness to the cheeks, which is what I like to do. Sometimes I’ll apply it as a finishing touch to reinforce my initial cream blush. Other times I’ll use it as my sole blush, applying it once after concealer as a cream blush then again when my face is near complete as a powder blush."—Annie Blay-Tettey, associate beauty editor

More to know

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• Key ingredients: upsalite, squalane, hyaluronic acid
• Finish: satin
• Shades: 11

Best Multipurpose: Tower 28 Beach Please Cream Blush

Tower 28

Beach Please Cream Blush

$20

Sephora

$20

Credo Beauty

Allure social media manager Bianca Richards applying the Tower 28 Beach Please Cream Blush

Bianca Richards

Why it's worth it: Tower 28’s BeachPlease Cream Blush is basically summer in a compact—perfect for when you’re desperate for a little color in the dead of winter (or in general). The creamy formula comes in 10 shades that blend so effortlessly, you can tap them in with your fingers—no brush needed. It’s the kind of foolproof flush we stash in our work bags for touch-ups on the fly. Like all the best multitaskers, this blush works on cheeks, eyes, and lips, and has a satisfying slip and sheen, thanks to nourishing ingredients like shea butter, castor oil, and jojoba oil. Where it really shines, though, is in the sensitive-skin–friendly formula—hypoallergenic, dermatologist-approved, and clinically tested to be non-irritating—so that even those with reactive skin and eyes can swipe it across their lids without a second thought. The result is a sun-kissed glow that lasts all day.

Richards before applying Tower 28 Beach Please Cream Blush

Bianca Richards

Richards after applying Tower 28 Beach Please Cream Blush

Bianca Richards

Tester feedback from Allure social media manager Bianca Richards

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“I’ve hit pan on this cream blush more times than I can count (as you can see)—and for good reason! The color payoff from Tower28’s cream blush is unmatched. The shade Golden Hour gives the perfect sun-kissed glow that’s radiant and beautifully complements my skin tone.” —Bianca Richards, social media manager

More to know

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• Key ingredients: shea butter, castor oil, jojoba oil
• Finish: dewy
• Shades: 10

Best Matte Finish: Charlotte Tilbury Pillow Talk Matte Beauty Blush Wand

Charlotte Tilbury

Pillow Talk Matte Beauty Blush Wand

$42

Nordstrom

$42

Ulta Beauty

Allure content director Kara McGrath before applying the Charlotte Tilbury Pillow Talk Matte Beauty Blush Wand

Kara McGrath

Why it's worth it: If there's one blush that's taken over just about every Allure editor's cheeks, it's the TikTok-viral Charlotte Tilbury Pillow Talk Matte Beauty Blush Wand. Unlike many of the ultra-dewy blushes on the market, this one has a mattifying finish and a formula that's spiked with radiance-boosting silica spheres for a skin-like effect.

Tilbury told us that you should apply it to the tops of your cheekbones to lift the face. "Never start too low," she said. “It pulls your cheeks down.” During testing, we were struck by how much punch this formula packs in just one tap. The cushion-tip applicator is a standout—it delivers the perfect dose of pigment exactly where you want it, so there’s no guesswork. You can dot on a single tap for a soft wash of color or build it up with a few more for extra brightness. Then simply blend it out with a brush or your fingers.

McGrath before applying the Charlotte Tilbury Pillow Talk Matte Beauty Blush Wand

Kara McGrath

McGrath after applying the Charlotte Tilbury Pillow Talk Matte Beauty Blush Wand

Kara McGrath

Tester feedback from Allure content director Kara McGrath

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"When I want a blush that’s going to melt right onto my skin, I reach for the Charlotte Tilbury Matte Beauty Blush Wand in Pillow Talk Pink Pop. Although it’s a matte formula, it plays well with creamy base products, blending easily to give me a pink-peachy glow."—Kara McGrath, content director

More to know

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• Key ingredients: silica spheres
• Finish: matte
• Shades: 4

Best Sheer Finish: Summer Fridays Blush Butter Balm

Summer Fridays

Blush Butter Balm

$26

Sephora

$26

Summer Fridays

Allure shopping director Shanna Shipin applying the Summer Fridays Blush Butter Balm

Shanna Shipin

Why it’s worth it: The Summer Fridays Blush Butter Balm’s creamy formula is a dream on dry skin, as it leaves your complexion looking and feeling hydrated. How? It’s loaded with skin care-forward ingredients like plumping peptides, hydrating hyaluronic acid, and moisturizing shea butter. It imparts a fresh, dewy glow, like you spent just the right amount of time in the sun (whatever that might look like for you). Thanks to its flexible formula, you can build it up or sheer it out easily. And, as with many cream blushes on this list, this one looks just as good on the lips if you're into the monochromatic look.

Shipin before applying the Summer Fridays Blush Butter Balm

Shanna Shipin

Shipin after applying the Summer Fridays Blush Butter Balm

Shanna Shipin

Tester feedback from Allure shopping director Shanna Shipin

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"It is so rare for me to hit the pan for a blush, but I SCRAPE the beautiful bits of this blush when I get down to the end. I use this for everything and everywhere—of course as a subtle flush or wow-worthy pop of color on the cheeks, over the nose for a cute sunkissed look, and on the eyes for some pigment. One thing that may be underrated for this blush is that it is so, so great on the lips as well. I use a liner and the blush, and I'm set; it's multipurpose in the best way. I have eczema-laden skin, and it hasn't flared up over many months of use, it also doesn't accentuate any dry spots, and instead leaves the skin with a healthy, bouncy-looking finish.

This formula melts into the fingers and onto the skin, so you don't need to tug to get it to blend. It's simultaneously buildable and forgivable if you add too much. The shade range is great (Terracotta is my all-time favorite for my medium skin), and while you can use your fingers, I highly recommend the corresponding dual-ended brush—it is so versatile and even blends skin tint foundations like a dream." —Shanna Shipin, shopping director

More to know

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• Key ingredients: peptides, hyaluronic acid, shea butter
• Finish: dewy
• Shades: 6

Best Satin Finish: Westman Atelier Baby Cheeks Blush Stick

Westman Atelier

Baby Cheeks Blush Stick

$48

Nordstrom

$48

Sephora

Allure contributing commerce editor Deanna Pai applying the Baby Cheeks Lip + Cheek Cream Blush in Bichette

Deanna Pai

Why it's worth it: Some makeup can accentuate fine lines and wrinkles—but not Westman Atelier's Baby Cheeks Lip + Cheek Cream Blush Stick. It has a creamy, satin finish that sits beautifully on top of the skin without settling into fine lines. How? It contains moisture-replenishing ingredients like jojoba seed oil, antioxidant-rich grape extract, and raspberry seed extract to firm and condition skin. They melt into skin on contact for a smooth, supple finish that’s never chalky or heavy.

Pai before applying the Westman Atelier Baby Cheeks Cream Blush

Deanna Pai

Pai after applying the Westman Atelier Baby Cheeks Cream Blush

Deanna Pai

Tester feedback from Allure contributing commerce editor Deanna Pai

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“While I'm a powder blush stan, there's nothing like this cream formula to give my skin the most natural-looking pop of color ever. The velvety texture melts into my skin and feels like nothing, and I love that I can dab a little on my nose and chin to make my skin look almost sun-kissed—like I just got back from a long walk. Plus, a tiny bit goes a long way, so this stick will last me forever.”—Deanna Pai, contributing commerce editor

More to know

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• Key ingredients: jojoba seed oil, grape extract, raspberry seed extract
• Finish: satin
• Shades: 6

Best Dewy Finish: Basma The Cream Blush

Basma

The Cream Blush

$28

Sephora

Allure senior commerce editor Sarah Felbin applying the Basma The Cream Blush

Sarah Felbin

Why it’s worth it: We at Allure are never shy about a little radiance, which is why Basma’s The Cream Blush is a consistent editor favorite. Created by Rokael Lizama, makeup artist to Kim Kardashian, Ariana Grande, and other red-carpet regulars, the formula is as versatile as it is flattering. It melts into skin seamlessly (even over powder), delivers a radiant finish without the sticky aftermath, and stays put from morning meetings to wedding toasts to actual red carpets. Credit for that lit-from-within effect goes to its ingredient lineup: soothing aloe vera for a cooling burst, apricot and avocado oils to lock in hydration, and rosemary extract for an antioxidant boost. The end result: A glow that feels as good as it looks.

Felbin before applying the Basma The Cream Blush

Sarah Felbin

Felbin after applying the Basma The Cream Blush

Sarah Felbin

Tester feedback from Allure senior commerce editor Sarah Felbin

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“I truly think this blush is foolproof. You can wear just a little for a light flush, or layer it for a bolder look. And I love how easy it is to blend out—it's never gone streaky or patchy on me. The finish has just the right amount of glow and the colors, even though they can look intimidatingly bright in the pan, sheer out beautifully. Fuchsia (pictured here) and Cherry Red are my go-tos.” —Sarah Felbin, senior commerce editor

More to know

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• Key ingredients: aloe vera, apricot oil, avocado oil, rosemary extract
• Finish: dewy
• Shades: 7

Frequently Asked Questions

Is cream blush better than powder blush?

It's up to you, as cream and powder blush formulas both have their time and place. That said, cream blushes usually contain conditioning oils, making them more moisturizing than their powdery counterparts (take note, dry skin types). They also won't highlight textured areas of the skin or crease in wrinkles like powder blushes can, making them great for mature skin types. While liquid blushes provide similar effects, creams are more buildable, with sheer-to-medium coverage that isn’t as dramatically pigmented as liquids often are.

How should I apply cream blush?

First, finding a complementary shade to your skin tone is key for a natural-looking finish. As a rule of thumb, Los Angeles-based makeup artist Carissa Ferreri previously told Allure that she recommends using a cream blush (or gel) formula in rosy tones. Once you find your shade, it's time to dab it on. "Focus the blush a bit higher on the cheeks, like right under the eyes, and then diffuse any harsh lines," she explained. Joseph Carrillo, a makeup artist based in New York City, also suggests "smiling and applying the color in the center of the apples" before gently fading the edges.

While some come in stick form and others in pots, it's the same deal: Simply apply straight from the bullet and blend the product out with your fingers, a beauty sponge, or a stippling blush brush for more precision. Whatever you do, it's hard to mess up, especially considering most cream blushes are on the sheerer (but buildable) side. If you've gone overboard with the intensity, you can always use your brush or sponge to diffuse the color.

Meet the experts

• Allison Kaye, a Florida-based makeup artist
• Carissa Ferreri, a Los Angeles-based makeup artist
• Joseph Carrillo, 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 cream blushes, 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.

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 can fairly assess any beauty product that comes into the beauty closet.

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Ever since Hilary Duff announced earlier this month that she'd be releasing new music for the first time in a decade, all eyes have been on the former Disney darling turned multi-hyphenate mom. And Duff clearly knows everyone's watching. Not that she even needed a glow-up—the woman is chronically gorgeous—but her front-row-seat sighting at the Fendi show at Milan Fashion Week has everyone talking about how next-level stunning she looks. It's nearly impossible to narrow down the look to one favorite feature, but perhaps the most fun and copyable element is her amazing manicure.

Duff attended the Fendi Spring/Summer 2026 show on Tuesday, September 24, along with a number of other fashion-loving celebrities like Naomi Watts and Shailene Woodley, both of whom wore muted colors and barely-there nail polishes. Duff, on the other hand, seems to have said, “French manicure, please, and don't do any of the usual stuff,” to her as-yet-unidentified nail artist.

Photo: Getty Images

Each one of the Duff's ballerina-shaped nails has a different unexpected color combo with an especially thick tip: shimmering gold with a terracotta tip, silver with a white tip, rosy rust with a darker burgundy tip, the palest of silvery lavenders with a pastel green tip, and so on. The manicure is complemented by a big, blue Fendi statement ring.

Photo: Getty Images

Although her outfit didn't perfectly match the colors in her manicure, it echoed the playful “color theory be damned” spirit. She paired a satiny, pale green pencil skirt with a bright red, oversized top, and a bubblegum pink straw bag.

The rest of her glam was on the more subtle side, but it still wowed big-time. Hairstylist Rio Sreedharan gave Duff voluminous, loose waves that framed her glowing, brown-toned makeup by Nikki Wolff.

As much as I wish I could wake up with those waves tomorrow, more realistically, I cannot wait to start pairing random colors together and throw the rules out the window when it comes to how thick or thin a French tip needs to be, and I thank Hilary Duff for what will be endless inspiration this fall.

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All products featured on Allure are independently selected by our editors. However, we may receive compensation from retailers and/or from purchases of products through these links.

Whether you’re just branching out into winged liner or one viral TikTok away from becoming a celebrity MUA, the best eyeliners are key to nailing that look that keeps coming to you in your dreams (you know the one). The cream of the crop includes precise liquid liners, velvety gel eyeliners, and even pots of plush pigment paired with precision-driven brushes. Although each pick has its perks, they all share the goal of making your eye makeup come alive and staying put from your first swipe to bedtime cleanse without creasing, smudging, or transferring. To narrow down the best of the best, we chatted with makeup artists and tested tons of formulas ourselves to determine what makes them so good, and why you might be the next one to fall in love.

Our Top Eyeliners

• Best Overall: Kulfi Beauty Underlined Kajal Eyeliner, $20
• Best Self-Sharpening: Smashbox Always Sharp Longwear Waterproof Kohl Eyeliner Pencil, $27
• Best Splurge: Chanel Le Liner de Chanel Liquid Eyeliner, $42
• Best Liquid: Stila Stay All Day Waterproof Liquid Eyeliner, $24
• Most Blendable: Hourglass Voyeur Waterproof Gel Eyeliner, $28
• Best Pencil: Makeup by Mario Master Pigment Pro Pencil, $26
• Best Colorful: Valentino Colorgraph Waterproof Gel Eyeliner Pencil, $38
• Best Matte: One/Size Point Made Waterproof Liquid Eyeliner Pen, $19

Frequently Asked QuestionsAccordionItemContainerButtonLargeChevron

• How should I choose an eyeliner?
• How should I apply eyeliner?
• Meet the experts
• How we test and review products
• Our staff and testers

Best Overall: Kulfi Beauty Underlined Kajal Eyeliner

Kulfi Beauty

Underlined Kajal Eyeliner

$20

Sephora

$20

Kulfi Beauty

Former Allure commerce writer Jennifer Hussein applying the Kulfi Underlined Kajal in Nazar No More

Jennifer Hussein

Why it's worth it: The 2024 Best of Beauty-winning Kulfi Beauty Underlined Kajal Eyeliner draws inspiration from kajal—a buttery, richly pigmented eyeliner traditionally cooked up with natural ingredients in kitchens across South Asian households and worn for centuries to ward off the evil eye. Kulfi brings the practice into the present day with this smudge-proof color that glides skillfully onto lids and waterlines. You get a solid 20 seconds of easy-blending playtime before it sets firmly in place. Makeup artist Amrita Mehta is among its many fans, giving kudos to the vibrant shades ideal for tightlining or "smudging out into an all-over color or smoky eye look."

Jennifer Hussein before applying Kulfi Underlined Kajal in Nazar No More

Jennifer Hussein

Jennifer Hussein after applying Kulfi Underlined Kajal in Nazar No More

Jennifer Hussein

Tester feedback from former Allure commerce writer Jennifer Hussein

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"Just a few quick strokes are all I need to define my eyes with Kulfi's pigmented eyeliner. A quick tip: For a longer-lasting, budge-proof look, I wipe my waterline with a Q-tip, then swipe on this liner, and finally use a black eye shadow powder as a tinted setting powder of sorts. It never fails to keep smudging at bay."—Jennifer Hussein, former commerce writer

More to know

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• Finish: shimmer, matte
• Shades: 8
• Waterproof: yes

Best Self-Sharpening: Smashbox Always Sharp Longwear Waterproof Kohl Eyeliner Pencil

Smashbox

Always Sharp Longwear Waterproof Kohl Eyeliner Pencil

$27

Smashbox

Allure senior commerce editor Sarah Felbin applying the Smashbox Always Sharp Longwear Waterproof Kohl Eyeliner Pencil

Sarah Felbin

Why it’s worth it: We love kohl for its smudgy softness and liquid liner for its precision, and Smashbox’s Always Sharp Kohl Eyeliner delivers both in one sleek pencil. It’s creamy enough to smudge and smoke out, with a tip that never goes blunt. The genius? It self-sharpens every time you twist the cap (goodbye, grimy sharpeners at the bottom of your bag). The pigment is bold across the board—though we have a soft spot for the rich violet shade—and once you blend this waterproof formula into place, it locks in tight without budging or flaking.

Felbin before applying the Smashbox Always Sharp Longwear Waterproof Kohl Eyeliner Pencil

Sarah Felbin

Felbin after applying the Smashbox Always Sharp Longwear Waterproof Kohl Eyeliner Pencil

Sarah Felbin

Tester feedback from Allure senior commerce editor Sarah Felbin

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“It's all in the cap. Every time you open this eyeliner, the cap sharpens the tip automatically (my jaw dropped the first time I tried it). All of the shavings and residue stay in the cap—it's a totally mess-free experience that doesn't require me to dig my sharpener out and stand over a trash can. It's also super-easy to apply and doesn't pull on my eyelids (ouch!). The color payoff is dark and stays put for hours, even on my oily eyelids. I'm in love with Sumatra, a black-brown that makes my green eyes pop.” —Sarah Felbin, senior commerce editor

More to know

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• Finish: matte
• Shades: 5
• Waterproof: yes

Best Splurge: Chanel Le Liner De Chanel

Chanel

Le Liner de Chanel Liquid Eyeliner

$42

Chanel

$42

Nordstrom

Sarah Hoffmann applying the Chanel Le Liner de Chanel Liquid Eyeliner

Sarah Hoffmann

Why it's worth it: Chanel is synonymous with luxury, and Chanel's Le Liner de Chanel Liquid Eyeliner is synonymous with: "Oh my god, your eyeliner looks amazing." The water-resistant formula is latex-based for a firm grip, ensuring that deep, saturated pigment stays put and stays pretty. You can get super precise with your lines, thanks to a tapered tip that narrows to a thumbtack-level point. Of course, this liner comes in a classic, rich black, but we especially love the uniquely dark oxblood shade—Rouge Noir (a.k.a. "Red Black"). Wear it on a bare lid with a bit of mascara, or layer it with a smokey eye for a sultry nighttime vibe.

Sarah Hoffmann before applying the Chanel Le Liner de Chanel Liquid Eyeliner

Sarah Hoffmann

Sarah Hoffmann after applying the Chanel Le Liner de Chanel Liquid Eyeliner

Sarah Hoffmann

Tester feedback from Allure commerce producer Sarah Hoffmann

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"My days of thick, forgiving winged eyeliner are long behind me, so I'm all about precision and control with my eyeliner formulas these days. Chanel's Le Liner de Chanel has a fine tip applicator that's quite stiff compared to others I've tried, which I find to be ideal for keeping my lines tight and clean. The formula is definitely a liquid but not so loose that it's runny and stressful—I love dragging my fingertip along the outer wing to slightly soften the tip—and this eyeliner has just enough viscosity that I can safely manipulate the wing with my fingers without fear that I'm going to end up with inky fingerprints all over my face. You can do a lot with this eyeliner which really helps justify the price tag, IMO."—Sarah Hoffmann, commerce producer

More to know

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• Finish: liquid
• Shades: 3
• Waterproof: no, water-resistant

Best Liquid: Stila Stay All Day Waterproof Liquid Eyeliner

Stila

Stay All Day Waterproof Liquid Eye Liner

$24

Amazon

$24

Nordstrom

$24

Dermstore

Deanna Pai applying the Stila Stay All Day Waterproof Liquid Eyeliner

Deanna Pai

Why it's worth it: Ask any Allure editor about eyeliners, and chances are they'll tell you a felt-tip liquid liner is an essential—namely, Stila's Best of Beauty-winning Stay All Day Waterproof Liquid Eyeliner. Depending on the pressure and how you angle your hand as you apply, this liner can oscillate with sharp wings and silky swaths seamlessly. You can count on this waterproof formula to never skip, bleed, or tug and lend a matte finish that keeps you company from dawn to dusk. Grab this star in a classic, jet-black, or warm brown for a more natural look.

Deanna Pai before applying the Stila Stay All Day Waterproof Liquid Eyeliner

Deanna Pai

Deanna Pai after applying the Stila Stay All Day Waterproof Liquid Eyeliner

Deanna Pai

Tester feedback from Allure contributing commerce editor Deanna Pai

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"I don't have the steadiest hand, but I've found the relatively firm brush of Stila's liquid liner to be especially forgiving. It never skips or drags on my lid as I'm drawing, and the color truly doesn't budge once it sets." —Deanna Pai, contributing commerce editor

More to know

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• Finish:
• Shades: 2
• Waterproof: yes

Most Blendable: Hourglass Voyeur Waterproof Gel Eyeliner

Hourglass

Voyeur Waterproof Gel Eyeliner

$28

Amazon

$28

Nordstrom

$28

Ulta Beauty

Allure commerce writer Lily Wohlner applying the Hourglass Voyeur Waterproof Gel Eyeliner

Lily Wohlner

Why it’s worth it: We’ve tried more creamy liners than we can count, but Hourglass’s Voyeur Waterproof Gel Eyeliner still manages to impress. It glides on like silk, then sets to a budge-proof finish—no smearing, no bleeding, no frantic bathroom touch-ups. Our editors can’t get over how blendable it is (hat’s off to beeswax), making it as easy to smoke out as it is to wear clean and precise. Available in four matte shades plus one subtle shimmer, it’s the kind of low-effort, high-reward staple you’ll want in your routine every single day.

Wohlner before applying the Hourglass Voyeur Waterproof Gel Eyeliner

Lily Wohlner

Wohlner after applying the Hourglass Voyeur Waterproof Gel Eyeliner

Lily Wohlner

Tester feedback from commerce writer Lily Wohlner

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“I have light brown eyes, and I’m always on the hunt for a purple-toned eyeliner that leans more brown—something that’s not super obvious but still brings out the hazel in my eyes. The chestnut shade of this twist-up liner is exactly that. It has subtle maroon undertones that bring out my light brown eyes without looking overdone. And I have to mention the blendable formula. I use it for everything from a soft, smudgy look to a tight, thin line that makes my eyes look a little more awake. It’s a do-it-all product I now can’t finish my makeup without.” —Lily Wohlner, commerce writer

More to know

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• Finish: shimmer, matte
• Shades: 5
• Waterproof: yes

Best Pencil: Makeup by Mario Master Pigment Pro Pencil

Makeup by Mario

Master Pigment Pro Pencil

$26

Sephora

$26

Kohl's

Allure social media director Kassidy Silva applying the Makeup by Mario Master Pigment Pro Pencil

Kassidy Silva

Why it’s worth it: An "absolute favorite" of makeup artist Rose Siard, the Makeup by Mario Master Pigment Pro Pencil marries intensity and effortlessness. "It blends easily and has a built-in brush for smudging,” she says, adding that once the formula dries, it sets and stays in place. We’ve worn it everywhere—upper lids, lower lids, even the waterline—and its smudge-proof promise holds up every time. Each pencil even comes with its own sharpener, so you get a perfect point with every use.

Silva before applying the Makeup by Mario Master Pigment Pro Pencil

Kassidy Silva

Silva after applying the Makeup by Mario Master Pigment Pro Pencil

Kassidy Silva

Tester feedback from Allure social media director Kassidy Silva

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“It took less than 15-minutes with Mario Dedivanovic to convince me to start wearing eyeliner again. After forgoing the product for years since it took too much time and gave me anxiety to get my lines even, I picked up the Master Pigment Pro liner and it's been a match made in eyeliner heaven. Plus, the pencil is ideal for beginners as the dual-tip pencil comes with a brush to smooth out any rough spots.

I start by tightlining my upper waterline and using a q-tip to clean up an excess on my lower line. Then I slowly begin lining my upper lid from the outer corner and working my way to mid-lash. Using the brush, I smooth out my inevitable bumps and continue to layer and blend until I have the color I'm happy with. Once I've finished with a strong coat, I apply my shadow and then go back in with the eyeliner once I've finished to beef up the color and definition. In under 10 minutes, I have defined eyes and carry on with my base products.”—Kassidy Silva, social media director

More to know

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• Finish: matte
• Shades: 8
• Waterproof: no

Best Colorful: Valentino Colorgraph Waterproof Gel Eyeliner Pencil

Valentino

Colorgraph Waterproof Gel Eyeliner Pencil

$38

Nordstrom

$38

Sephora

Allure commerce editor Sarah Han applying the Valentino Colorgraph Waterproof Gel Eyeliner Pencil

Sarah Han

Why it’s worth it: Amid a sea of jet-black liners, we more than appreciate the occasional flare of eye-popping brightness. Valentino's Colorgraph Waterproof Gel Eyeliner Pencil has range, offering vivid pinks and electric purples alongside the can't-go-wrong classic coal. But color is just the start—while you've probably tangoed with plenty of liners sporting built-in spongy smudgers, this dual-ender boasts a tiny, rounded bristle brush for blending with exacto-level precision. Whether doing waterline eyeliner, defining your upper lashes, or blending broad strokes into eyeshadow-esque coverage, this liner is ready to play.

Han before applying the Valentino Colorgraph Waterproof Gel Eyeliner Pencil

Sarah Han

Han after applying the Valentino Colorgraph Waterproof Gel Eyeliner Pencil

Sarah Han

Tester feedback from commerce editor Sarah Han

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"The easiest way to jazz up my makeup is to go in with a bright gel liner, and Valentino's Colorgraph in Pink PP stole my heart even before I received the sample. It's pigmented and easy-gliding, so I can do each eye in less than 15 seconds, but it dries to a non-budge matte. You do have to sharpen relatively often, but that's just how it goes! If you want shimmer, I like Brown Fondant for a cute everyday brown, or for something bolder, I also like the shimmery Purple Dose." —Sarah Han, commerce editor

More to know

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• Finish: shimmer, matte
• Shades: 6
• Waterproof: yes

Best Matte: One/Size Point Made Waterproof Liquid Eyeliner Pen

One/Size

Point Made Waterproof Liquid Eyeliner Pen

$19

Sephora

$19

Kohl's

Allure graphic designer Briana Rengifo applying the One/Size Point Made Waterproof Liquid Eyeliner Pen

Briana Rengifo

Why it’s worth it: One/Size proves its point with the Liquid Eyeliner Pen, which has a matte, waterproof formula that locks in all day, so your liner stays put no matter the activity. The felt-tip applicator is saturated with the ink, which applies seamlessly and never drags, stops, or catches on the eyelids, so you’ll never have to retrace your lines. And, just when you thought it couldn't get any better, it has the most precise tip on our list—perfect for beginners and anyone who feels shaky-handed after one too many coffees.

Rengifo before applying the One/Size Point Made Waterproof Liquid Eyeliner Pen

Briana Rengifo

Rengifo after applying the One/Size Point Made Waterproof Liquid Eyeliner Pen

Briana Rengifo

Tester feedback from Allure graphic designer Briana Rengifo

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“I’m obsessed with this liner. It glides on so smoothly and is a rich black color, which I love. The formula is waterproof, so it holds up great throughout the day. With my watery eyes, I absolutely need something that will not crease or budge, and this liner is just that. I sometimes like to smudge it for more of a kohl effect.” —Briana Rengifo, graphic designer

More to know

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• Finish: matte
• Shades: 3
• Waterproof: yes

Best Gel: Jones Road Gel Liner

Jones Road

Gel Liner

$32

Jones Road

Allure content director Kara McGrath applying the Jones Road Gel Liner

Kara McGrath

Why it's worth it: We'll say it with our chests: The gel liner pot-and-brush combo is hugely underrated. Sure, dipping a petite paintbrush into a pot of pigment and wielding it steadily across your lid can seem intimidating, but we promise it's easier (and way more satisfying) than many of its peers. Take the Jones Road Gel Liner, for example. This creamy, richly pigmented, and water-resistant formula is a primo pick for your upper lid, creating crisp, transfer-proof lines wherever you sweep the angled brush. Turn the brush flat-side-down for thick, bold strokes, or use the slender tip for peak precision. Just make sure to screw the cap back on super tightly when you're done—otherwise, it'll dry out and become basically unusable.

McGrath before applying the Jones Road Gel Liner

Kara McGrath

McGrath after applying the Jones Road Gel Liner

Kara McGrath

Tester feedback from Allure content director Kara McGrath

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"If you're a gel liner newbie, this could be the one for you. The formula is so creamy that it makes it almost impossible to mess up, especially if you use the brand's ultra-thin brush to apply it. I like adding a thin line of the Brown shade to my upper lids on days when I want to add just a little bit more oomph to my everyday makeup look."—Kara McGrath, content director

More to know

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• Finish: gel-to-matte
• Shades: 4
• Waterproof: no, water-resistant

Best Waterproof: Urban Decay 24/7 Glide On Waterproof Eyeliner Pencil

Urban Decay

24/7 Glide On Waterproof Eyeliner Pencil

$23

Amazon

$23

Ulta Beauty

Allure associate social media manager Katherine Gunderman applying the Urban Decay 24/7 Glide On Waterproof Eyeliner Pencil

Why it’s worth it: Urban Decay’s 24/7 eyeliner pencil is the ultimate multi-tasker: 35-plus shades, five finishes, and a glide so smooth it practically melts into the skin. The waterproof formula is loaded with vitamin E and jojoba oil, so it stays creamy going on but locks down the second it sets——through humidity, sweat, and a sweaty dance floor. You can smoke it out, wing it sharp, or wear it all over as shadow, and it won’t budge until you decide to take it off. (Fair warning: You’ll need a strong cleansing oil or makeup remover because this pencil does not quit.)

Gunderman before applying the Urban Decay 24/7 Glide On Waterproof Eyeliner Pencil

Katherine Gunderman

Gunderman after applying the Urban Decay 24/7 Glide On Waterproof Eyeliner Pencil

Katherine Gunderman

Tester feedback from Allure associate social media manager Katherine Gunderman

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“I love the Urban Decay 24/7 Glide-On Waterproof Eyeliner Pencil so much I have it in eight colors, seriously. From black, brown to electric shades, this liner never fails me, and the colors push me to experiment with my looks when I’m not going for a classic black or brown. It stays put all night long but is easy to work with and blend out when applying. I use this across my top lashes, on my water line, and for a winged look.”—Katherine Gunderman, associate social media manager

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• Finish: matte, satin, metallic, shimmer, glitter
• Shades: 38
• Waterproof: yes

Best for Graphic Lines: Half Magic Magic Flik Eyeliner

Half Magic

Magic Flik Eyeliner

$24

Ulta Beauty

Allure senior news editor Nicola Dall’Asen applying the Half Magic Magic Flik Eyeliner

Nicola Dall'Asen

Why it's worth it: In keeping with the hypnotic, spirited vibe of all Half Magic goodies (the brand is the brainchild of Euphoria head makeup artist Donni Davy, so duh), the Magic Flik Eyeliner breaks the mold with a unique, flexible paddle tip. It's flat, saturated with pigment, and encircled by a felt outer that you can rotate to create super-graphic, calligraphic sweeps of black. Or, if you press it flat against your lid, it becomes a geometric stamp for tiny, Twiggy-esque lines beneath your bottom lashes. The formula is in it for the long haul, reliably non-smeary and flake-free. Just give the pen a shake before use and store it cap-side-down so the pigment doesn't dry out.

Dall’Asen before applying the Half Magic Magic Flik Eyeliner

Nicola Dall'Asen

Dall’Asen after applying the Half Magic Magic Flik Eyeliner

Nicola Dall'Asen

Tester feedback from Allure senior news editor Nicola Dall'Asen

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"I hesitate to call most anything an innovation, but Magic Flik is the true definition of one. Unlike any eyeliner I've ever seen, this liquid eyeliner pen has a flat applicator with a curved edge. It's basically a calligraphy pen, meaning you can make just about any type of line you want depending on how you hold it—quick wings are a breeze, but so are bold, graphic designs." —Nicola Dall’Asen, senior news editor

More to know

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• Finish: liquid
• Shades: 1
• Waterproof: yes

Best Drugstore: Nyx Professional Makeup Epic Ink Liquid Wear Liner

Nyx Professional Makeup

Epic Ink Liquid Wear Liner

$10 $8 (20% off)

Amazon

$10

Ulta Beauty

$10

Walmart

Allure associate manager of audience development Melanie Curry applying the Nyx Professional Makeup Epic Ink Liquid Wear Liner

Melanie Curry

Why we love it: When it comes to budget-friendly liners, Nyx’s Epic Ink Liner (a 2024 Best of Beauty winner) is our no-brainer pick. Makeup artist Christian Briceno previously told Allure that this liner is bold, smooth, and it actually stays put (we’re talkin’ up to six hours!). The brush tip is precise enough for razor-thin flicks but flexible enough to wing out something dramatic. During testing, we found that it may need a quick touch-up after several hours due to some light flaking, but the formula layers easily without getting clumpy, and the fix takes just seconds. Our editors keep the classic jet black in constant rotation, but the electric blue and peachy pink shades are just as tempting—and at this price, why not grab more than one?

Curry before applying the Nyx Professional Makeup Epic Ink Liquid Wear Liner

Melanie Curry

Curry after applying the Nyx Professional Makeup Epic Ink Liquid Wear Liner

Melanie Curry

Tester feedback from Allure associate manager of audience development Melanie Curry

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“Nyx professional makeup always has such good eye products, so I'm not surprised their Epic Wear liner has become one of my go-tos. It has a thick brush with a precise tip, so I can easily draw on wings and graphic lines. The liner dries matte and doesn't bleed or drip even when I'm super sweaty (thank you, humidity). The only minor downside is that it chips after 6+ hours of wear.” —Melanie Curry, associate manager of audience development

More to know

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• Finish: glitter, matte, metallic
• Shades: 15
• Waterproof: yes

Frequently Asked Questions

How should I choose an eyeliner?

Choosing the right eyeliner is all about knowing your preferences and considering what role you want it to play in your makeup routine. "I love gel eyeliners because they give you a level of both control and precision that you don't get from liquid liners or traditional pencils," says makeup artist Kasey Spickard. Meanwhile, London-based makeup artist Vincent Ford leans toward waterproof formulas, praising their precision and smudgeless staying power throughout the day. As for liquid liners, Florida-based makeup artist Allison Kaye is partial to inky, felt-tip liners, which she says are "great for delivering consistently opaque pigment with every stroke."

As you weigh your options, look closely at each product's claims. If you live in a humid climate, make sure it says "waterproof" or "water-resistant" on the package. And if your eyes tend to get irritated easily, opt for ophthalmologist-tested formulas. And so on. Finding your go-to liner might involve a little trial and error, but honestly, we think that's half the fun.

How should I apply eyeliner?

At the end of the day, you should apply your eyeliner however you want to, but if you're after a bit more of a professional approach, there are some guidelines to keep in mind. If you're using an eyeliner pencil, Houston-based makeup artist Rose Siard says: "As soon as you draw your line, start smudging. I work one eye at a time, so I have more blending time." If you're using liquid eyeliner, it's a whole other beautiful beast. We have an entire course on cat-eyes, but if you're after specifics based on your eye shape, here's the handy guide from our waterproof eyeliner roundup, according to Lavonne Wood, a bi-coastal makeup artist:

Round eyes

If your irises are completely visible when your eyes are open and resting naturally, then you likely have round eyes. "Start from the outside, drawing at a downward angle toward the eye's outer corner," she advises. for this eye shape. “Apply the liner inwards, stopping at the center of your lid where your pupil is when you're looking straight ahead.”

Monolids

Monolids are characterized by minimal eye creases or the lack of an eye crease. Creating the thinnest line possible is best for this shape, Wood says. “Place the tip of the eyeliner on the lash line at the pupil and draw to the outer corner. Then, start from the inner corner and draw it to meet the middle point.”

Almond eyes

If your eyes are more ovular than circular and have sharp outer and inner corners, you've got almond-shaped eyes. Wood recommends that you take advantage of your extra lid space. “Draw your eyeliner from the inner corner all the way across the lash line, then flick it out, stopping at the point where your crease starts.”

Hooded eyes

Do your creases seem to disappear when you open your eyes? That means you've got hooded eyes. "To make sure the liner doesn't disappear under your lid, create the outer wing flick where your eyelid hood starts," Wood advises. "Work your way inward, applying your liner in thin strokes."

Meet the experts

• Allison Kaye, a makeup artist based in Florida
• Kasey Spickard, a makeup artist
• Lavonne Wood, a bi-coastal makeup artist
• Rose Siard, a makeup artist based in Houston
• Vincent Ford, a makeup artist based in London

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, inclusive shade range 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 the packaging consciously designed or needlessly wasteful?

For our review of the best eyeliners, we enlisted the help of multiple editors, writers, contributors, and makeup artists. 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 review 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, a new nail product to add to your Sunday self-care routine, or 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 are 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.

Photo: Getty ImagesSave StorySave this storySave StorySave this story

Beauty has always been a focal point for Doja Cat. The singer and rapper has never shied from experimenting with bold looks. I mean, hello—that red crystal-covered pièce de résistance became one of the most iconic makeup moments of the 21st century. More recently, she was named the latest MAC global brand ambassador, which is a truly perfect pairing considering they have so much creativity in common. And now, in what feels like a very fitting celebration of one of her favorite things, Doja's new music video for the song “Gorgeous” is a clear homage to the beauty ads of the 1980s.

Born in 1995, Doja Cat wasn't a first-hand witness to the undefeated glamour of the biggest beauty brands' late-‘80s and early-’90s print and TV ads. But as “Gorgeous” opens up on a golden typeface that recalls Estée Lauder, L'Oréal, and Revlon. But it's not just the font; we see Doja in what feels like a full-on commercial for a lavish lip gloss, complete with product close-ups and the burnished vibes that were so ubiquitous in that era.

As more models start appearing in the ode—including current Allure cover models Alex Consani and Anok Yai—we see imaginary yet totally familiar takes on lipstick, mascara, eye shadow palettes, hair dye, and perfume. An underlying sax solo in the song really enhances the ‘80s ambience, and I keep expecting Kelly LeBrock to show up and tell me not to hate her because she’s beautiful.

The only thing that might remind you that you're not falling through a hole in the cosmetic space-time continuum is the lyrics, peppered with beauty terms we definitely weren't dropping back in the day, like, “She lasered all that hair off, and she thank God for that Emsculpt.”

Whether you lived through the beauty ads of the late 1980s and early 1990s or you've only seen them like archival footage, all beauty lovers can absolutely appreciate the amazingly executed tribute.

Watch the video right here:

Collage: Gabrielle Langdon; Source images: Courtesy of brandsSave StorySave this storySave StorySave this story

All products featured on Allure are independently selected by our editors. However, we may receive compensation from retailers and/or from purchases of products through these links.

The best clay masks aren’t the moisture-sapping formulas of the past—in recent years, they’ve evolved into skin barrier-friendly staples. Part of that has to do with the actual clay. “Clay masks can benefit most skin types, but the type of clay matters,” says Sonia Badreshia-Bansal, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in Danville, CA. In other words, matching your mask to your skin’s needs can make the difference between a glowing complexion and an irritated one. “Kaolin clay is the most gentle and works well for sensitive or dry skin because it absorbs oil without being overly stripping,” Dr. Badreshia-Bansal says. “Bentonite clay is stronger and usually best for oily or acne-prone skin since it can draw out excess sebum and impurities more deeply.” Some masks combine kaolin and bentonite to offer the best of both worlds—deep cleansing power and a comfortable, non-stripping feel.

Our Top Clay Masks

• Best Overall: Shani Darden Signature Nourishing Facial Mask, $58
• Best for Acne-Prone Skin: SkinCeuticals Clarifying Clay Masque, $70
• Best for Oily Skin: Origins Clear Improvement Active Charcoal Mask to Clear Pores, $39
• Best for Uneven Texture: Ole Henriksen Cold Plunge Pore Clay Mask, $42
• Best for Dull Skin: Caudalie Instant Detox Mask, $42
• Best for Sensitive Skin: Sisley-Paris Radiant Glow Express Mask, $160
• Best for Dry Skin: La Mer The Deep Purifying Mask, $175

On top of the type of clay, today’s formulas are far less likely to leave your skin parched. Many are now enriched with hyaluronic acid, glycerin, and botanical extracts, such as aloe, which help keep skin hydrated and balanced while clearing pores and absorbing excess oil. (Heads up: Even so, Dr. Badreshia-Bansal recommends using a clay mask once or twice a week for optimal results since excessive use can lead to dryness or irritation.) Read on for our dermatologist-approved picks for the best clay masks that leave your complexion feeling soft, comfortable, and glowing.

Best Overall: Shani Darden Signature Nourishing Facial Mask

Shani Darden

Signature Nourishing Facial Mask

$58

Amazon

$58

Sephora

$58

Revolve

Allure senior news editor Nicola Dall’Asen applying the Shani Darden Signature Nourishing Facial Mask

Nicola Dall'Asen

Why it's worth it: If it wasn’t obvious by now, at Allure HQ, we’re total Shani Darden stans. The esthetician behind Hollywood’s glowiest complexions (and our editor-in-chief’s, thanks to her chemical peel) has also blessed us with the Signature Nourishing Facial Mask, the next best thing to booking one of her coveted spa treatments. The rich, creamy formula hydrates skin deeply, soothes redness, and helps strengthen the skin's barrier, leaving everything feeling balanced. Hyaluronic acid plumps, colloidal oatmeal soothes, and tea extracts provide skin with antioxidants. Smooth it on with the handy included brush after cleansing, kick back for 10 to 15 minutes, and rinse off.

Dall’Asen before applying the Shani Darden Signature Nourishing Facial Mask

Nicola Dall'Asen

Dall’Asen after applying the Shani Darden Signature Nourishing Facial Mask

Nicola Dall'Asen

Tester feedback from senior news editor Nicola Dall’Asen

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“You might associate clay masks with acne prevention or oil control, but this one goes far beyond that, thanks to the inclusion of squalane and colloidal oatmeal. Its thick, stark-white consistency might make me look like the ghost of a Victorian child for the 15 minutes I wear it, but it's worth it for the supple, soothed, renewed skin it leaves behind.” —Nicola Dall’Asen, senior news editor

More to know

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• Key ingredients: kaolin, bentonite, squalane, colloidal oatmeal, white tea, green tea, chamomile
• Fragrance-free: yes

Best for Acne-Prone Skin: SkinCeuticals Clarifying Clay Masque

SkinCeuticals

Clarifying Clay Masque

$70

SkinCeuticals

$70

Dermstore

$70

Bluemercury

Allure contributing commerce editor Deanna Pai applying the SkinCeuticals Clarifying Clay Masque

Deanna Pai

Why it's worth it: SkinCeuticals Clarifying Clay Masque is a weekly reset for congested, breakout-prone skin. “This is one of the most elegant medical-grade clay masks, featuring kaolin and bentonite clays to draw out impurities along with alpha-hydroxy acids to gently exfoliate dead skin cells,” says Dr. Badreshia-Bansal. She notes that this balanced formula goes beyond basic pore-clearing to deliver a polished, refined finish. “On top of it being great for patients dealing with clogged pores, uneven texture, or mild breakouts, it doesn’t overdry the skin, especially when used once a week as part of an exfoliating routine,” she says. Soothing botanicals, such as aloe vera and chamomile, keep the skin comfortable as the mask refines pores and absorbs excess oil. Soothing botanicals, such as “aloe vera and chamomile, keep the skin comfortable while reducing redness that often is associated with acne,” adds Adriana Lombardi, a board-certified dermatologist based in Edison, NJ.

Pai before applying the SkinCeuticals Clarifying Clay Masque

Deanna Pai

Pai after applying the SkinCeuticals Clarifying Clay Masque

Deanna Pai

Tester feedback from contributing commerce editor Deanna Pai

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“I've hit empty on this jar and then restocked—it's just that good. I love the combo of AHAs and clay, which offer both exfoliation and some good, old pore-clearing goodness. It's super-satisfying to see it dry onto my skin and suck gunk out of my nose, and even as my skin has gotten drier with age, it never feels tight or uncomfortable when I rinse.” —Deanna Pai, contributing commerce editor

More to know

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• Key ingredients: kaolin, bentonite, aloe, chamomile, malic acid, lactic acid, tartaric acid, glycolic acid
• Fragrance-free: yes

Best for Oily Skin: Origins Clear Improvement Active Charcoal Mask to Clear Pores

Origins

Clear Improvement Active Charcoal Mask to Clear Pores

$39

Origins

Allure commerce editor Sarah Han applying the Origins Clear Improvement Active Charcoal Mask to Clear Pores

Sarah Han

Why it's worth it: There are countless reasons we crowned Origins’ Clear Improvement Active Charcoal Mask to Clear Pores as one of our all-time favorite gems from the ever-reliable skin-care brand. This clarifying clay mask pairs kaolin and bentonite clays with bamboo charcoal to draw out pore-clogging impurities and sweep away excess oil—without leaving your skin feeling parched. Glycerin helps maintain a balanced and comfortable complexion, while antioxidant-rich myrtle leaf water provides a protective boost. The silky formula glides on effortlessly, dries comfortably (without the dreaded “frozen face” stiffness), and rinses clean to reveal fresh, smoother, and visibly clearer skin.

Han with the Origins Clear Improvement Active Charcoal Mask to Clear Pores applied to her face

Sarah Han

Han after applying the Origins Clear Improvement Active Charcoal Mask to Clear Pores

Sarah Han

Tester feedback from commerce editor Sarah Han

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"Is there a clay mask that's more deserving of "tried-and-true" status? Don't think so. Origins's is so gentle but not in the sense of pulling gunk out, because it goes all in in that regard—my combination skin loves the weekly reset this mask gives it. Special shoutout to the bamboo charcoal which helps minimize excess oil that can form blackheads, my arch nemeses. Sometimes, I'll slather this on twice a week but just on my T-zone to quell that inevitably temperamental area." —Sarah Han, commerce editor

More to know

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• Key ingredients: kaolin, bentonite, glycerin, charcoal powder, myrtle leaf water
• Fragrance-free: yes

Best for Uneven Texture: Ole Henriksen Cold Plunge Pore Clay Mask

Ole Henriksen

Cold Plunge Pore Clay Mask

$42

Ulta Beauty

$42

Sephora

Allure commerce writer Lily Wohlner applying the Ole Henriksen Cold Plunge Pore Clay Mask

Lily Wohlner

Why it's worth it: Don’t let the vibrant violet hue fool you, because Ole Henriksen Cold Plunge Pore Clay Mask is more than just a cool selfie moment. Purple kaolin clay absorbs excess oil, while the combination of purple willow ferment and salicylic acid works together to refine pores, clear blackheads, and sweep away buildup. As it dries to a marbled finish, the mask delivers a refreshing cooling effect—like a mini cold plunge for your face (hence the name)—that detoxes without stripping, leaving skin feeling clean, nourished, and never tight.

Wohlner before applying the Ole Henriksen Cold Plunge Pore Clay Mask

Lily Wohlner

Wohlner after applying the Ole Henriksen Cold Plunge Pore Clay Mask

Lily Wohlner

Tester feedback from commerce writer Lily Wohlner

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More to know

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• Key ingredients: kaolin, purple clay, purple willow ferment, salicylic acid
• Fragrance-free: yes

Best for Dull Skin: Caudalie Instant Detox Mask

Caudalie

Instant Detox Mask

$42

Amazon

$42

Nordstrom

Allure senior commerce editor Sarah Felbin applying the Caudalie Instant Detox Mask

Sarah Felbin

Why it's worth it: Caudalie has a thing for grape seed polyphenols—the antioxidant MVP behind its entire skin-care lineup—and they shine in the Instant Detox Mask, too. Made with pink clay (a mix of kaolin and bentonite), glycerin, and lactic acid, “it’s a light, fast-absorbing mask with a soft finish that clears pores without tightness,” says Dr. Karcher. To take things up a notch, caffeine energizes dull, tired skin for an instant wake-up call. Even though it's free of synthetic fragrances, the formula still features nourishing botanical oils like sandalwood, lavender, and bergamot to keep your skin moisturized and smelling fresh.

Felbin before applying the Caudalie Instant Detox Mask

Sarah Felbin

Felbin after applying the Caudalie Instant Detox Mask

Sarah Felbin

Tester feedback from senior commerce editor Sarah Felbin

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“This is the most satisfying clay mask I've ever used. You only need a thin layer, which tightens a TON as it dries. I'm always impressed by how much it pulls out of my pores—you can literally see every individual pore and the oil the mask has absorbed. After I wash it off, my skin has a fresh glow and my blackheads are noticeably smaller. I recommend this mask to everyone I know!” —Sarah Felbin, senior commerce editor

More to know

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• Key ingredients: kaolin, bentonite, grape seed polyphenols, caffeine, glycerin, lactic acid
• Fragrance-free: no

Best for Sensitive Skin: Sisley-Paris Radiant Glow Express Mask

Sisley-Paris

Radiant Glow Express Mask

$160

Nordstrom

$160

Bluemercury

Allure shopping director Shanna Shipin applying the Sisley-Paris Radiant Glow Express Mask

Shanna Shipin

Why it's worth it: Working in just three minutes, Sisley’s Radiant Glow Express Mask with Red Clay is a quick fix for irritation-prone or congested skin. The red and white clays do the heavy lifting by clearing impurities and tightening pores without over-drying. Rosemary and chamomile swoop in to soothe and comfort, while red vine helps even out your skin tone, glycerin replenishes moisture, and rosehip adds a nourishing boost. Unlike some clay masks, it won’t morph into a crunchy layer as it dries—just a smooth, comfortable detox for your skin. “It’s soothing yet effective, improving clarity and radiance without leaving skin dry or tight,” says Dr. Henry.

Shipin before applying the Sisley-Paris Radiant Glow Express Mask

Shanna Shipin

Shipin after applying the Sisley-Paris Radiant Glow Express Mask

Shanna Shipin

Tester feedback from shopping director Shanna Shipin

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“What a treat this mask is. I use sunscreen, makeup, and plenty of moisturizer throughout the day, and this is what I turn to to slough it all off. Given that I have sensitive skin and eczema, I typically steer clear of clay masks, but this formula never dries me out. It glides on (and smells heavenly while it's at it—hello, rosemary and chamomile!), and is so easy to remove. There's no need for tugging or over-cleansing. As I have two kids and virtually no time to myself, even in the bathroom, I appreciate that it takes as little as three minutes to see the benefits. Whenever I use this, I am immediately (yes, immediately!) glowing afterwards. Like, post-facial-level glow—one worthy of a Twilight vampire—and without a hint of an over-stripped skin barrier. The chamomile is soothing, the clay draws gunk out of my pores, and the glycerin nourishes my skin. If I could use this every day, I would.” —Shanna Shipin, shopping director

More to know

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• Key ingredients: kaolin, rosehip, red vine, chamomile, rosemary
• Fragrance-free: yes

Best for Dry Skin: La Mer The Deep Purifying Mask

La Mer

The Deep Purifying Mask

$175

Nordstrom

$175

Sephora

$175

Bluemercury

Why it's worth it: As if its striking emerald-green hue didn’t already give it away, La Mer’s Deep Purifying Mask pairs the brand’s legendary algae extract (Miracle Broth) with serious detox power. “It’s a nice, creamy, cooling, luxurious mask that applies easily with a smooth glide,” says Cheryl Karcher, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in New York City. The formula features bentonite and kaolin clays for deep cleansing and oil absorption, while glycolic, salicylic, and lactic acids gently exfoliate to refine skin texture. This combination “deeply purifies and detoxifies while still hydrating and soothing the skin,” says Michelle Henry, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in New York City. To amplify the glow, bamboo, charcoal, sea salt, pearl powder, and tourmaline work in harmony, leaving skin clarified, refreshed, and radiant without ever feeling stripped. Perfect for all skin types, it draws out impurities, minimizes the appearance of pores, and eliminates dullness. But honestly, when it comes to La Mer, you don’t really ask questions; once you try it, you believe it.

More to know

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• Key ingredients: kaolin, bentonite, Miracle Broth (algae extract), charcoal powder, glycolic acid, salicylic acid, lactic acid
• Fragrance-free: no

Frequently Asked Questions

What type of clay mask is best for acne?

Bentonite- and kaolin-based purifying clay masks are excellent for acne-prone skin. Both are highly absorptive, drawing out excess oil that clogs pores and contributes to breakouts. “These clays deeply purify while remaining gentle, so you get effective oil control without over-drying,” says Dr. Henry. Since blemishes are closely tied to overactive oil glands, using a mask with these clays helps reduce one of the main triggers of acne. Balanced formulas—especially those paired with hydrating or soothing ingredients—are best, as they “detoxify while still hydrating and soothing the skin,” preventing irritation that can worsen breakouts, says Dr. Henry.

Will a clay mask dry out my skin?

“The best clay masks today balance oil control with hydration from ingredients like glycerin and aloe, so they detoxify without leaving your skin parched,” says Dr. Bansal. To further sidestep the dreaded tight, overly matte feeling, “it’s smart to look for formulas enriched with calming, hydrating additions—like chamomile, rosehip, or botanical oils—that soften the traditional clay ‘dry down’ effect, says Dr. Henry.

Meet the experts

• Sonia Badreshia-Bansal, MD, a board-certified dermatologist and RealSelf expert, based in Danville, CA
• Michelle Henry, MD, a board-certified dermatologist at Skin & Aesthetic Surgery, based in New York City
• Cheryl Karcher, MD, a board-certified dermatologist at Center Aesthetic & Dermatology, based in New York City
• Adriana Lombardi, a board-certified dermatologist at Skin Cancer & Cosmetic Surgery based in Edison, NJ

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.

Photo: Getty ImagesSave StorySave this storySave StorySave this story

All products featured on Allure are independently selected by our editors. However, we may receive compensation from retailers and/or from purchases of products through these links.

Last night, Snooki showed up on my TikTok For You page. Today, Zendaya seemingly wore a Bumpit—the very hair-heightening apparatus made famous by the Jersey Shore star—to the Louis Vuitton Womenswear Spring/Summer 2026 show. Coincidence?

Probably.

But it speaks volumes—no pun intended—about how a bouffant defies the parameters of style and time, refusing to be kept down. (OK, the pun was intended that time.)

Zendaya arrived for her front-row seat at the September 30 show in a metallic foil mini dress with fur trim, its retro vibes only amplified by her hairstyle: what stylist Ursula Stephen calls a '60s-meets-'90s bouffant. The smooth look features a ton of oomph at the back of the head, while the front is framed in a swoopy, super-deep side part.

Photo: Getty Images

And as much as I really want to believe there's a Bumpit in there, Stephen knows exactly how to achieve this glam shape without any inserts. She applied a combination of Milk Shake Insta.Light Potion and Incredible Milk leave-in treatment to Zendaya's damp hair to add shine before blow-drying with a round brush, setting each section in a velcro roller. Once the hair was set, she teased the hair at the crown and finished with Milk Shake's Lifestyling Flexible Hold Hairspray.

Photo: Getty Images

The rest of her stunning beauty look included soft, rosy-brown makeup tones and the simplest of manicures: a sheer, creamy color on short nails.

Zendaya at the Louis Vuitton fashion show as part of Spring/Summer 2026 Paris Fashion Week held at The Louvre on September 30, 2025 in Paris, France. (Photo by Swan Gallet/WWD via Getty Images)WWD/Getty Images

If you still need a hidden accessory to help hoist your hair, there's no shame in that—and there's no shortage of options, like plastic arches and sponge combs. All that matters is that you set your goals and your hair high.

Collage: Paula Balondo; Source images: Courtesy of brands

Save StorySave this storySave StorySave this story

All products featured on Allure are independently selected by our editors. However, we may receive compensation from retailers and/or from purchases of products through these links.

Featured in this article

SkinCeuticals Best Sellers Discovery SetSkinCeuticals Best Sellers Discovery SetRead more$490

SkinCeuticals

Chanel Chance Eau Tendre Eau de ParfumChanel Chance Eau Tendre Eau de ParfumRead more$143

Nordstrom

Tatcha Dewy Skin & Lips Hydrating Ritual SetTatcha Dewy Skin & Lips Hydrating Ritual SetRead more$83

Amazon

Finding the best gifts for women is easier said than done. Whether it’s because mom insists she already has everything or because little sis is super picky about skin care, choosing something special, suitable, and unique takes talent. Lucky for you, we’ve scoured the web to create a gift guide that'll help you prep prime presents ahead of the holiday season. No matter the age, vibe, or taste of your recipient, you’re bound to find something to make her day…and the day after that, and the day after that. Scroll on for the best gifts for women, and thank us later.

• SkinCeuticals Best Sellers Discovery Set

  1/53

  SkinCeuticals

  Best Sellers Discovery Set

  $490

  SkinCeuticals

  Mom deserves nothing less than the best skin care, which she'll get in this three-piece SkinCeuticals set. Truly, these products need no introduction, but here’s a primer anyway. C E Ferulic is a potent antioxidant serum that brightens dark spots and discoloration and tackles fine lines. Former commerce writer Jennifer Hussein described the derm-approved investment as "the mother of all vitamin C serums."

  H.A. Intensifier Multi-Glycan is a 2024 Best of Beauty Award winner. In the words of creative director Amber Venerable, "it feels substantial but not heavy and gives instant hydration to the skin." Star ingredients include licorice root, purple rice extract, and hyaluronic acid, an all-star humectant that draws water into the skin.

  As for Triple Lipid Restore, it's the end-all-be-all moisturizer, "infusing skin-identical fatty acids into the barrier in the exact proportion that naturally exists in our barrier," board-certified dermatologist Mona Gohara, MD, explained. The result? Younger-looking skin.

• Chanel Chance Eau Tendre Eau de Parfum

  2/53

  Chanel

  Chance Eau Tendre Eau de Parfum

  $143

  Nordstrom

  $143

  Ulta Beauty

  $143

  Sephora

  Chanel's Chance first took home a Best of Beauty Award 22 years ago, and it continues to impress us with its clean, fruity-floral scent. Notes of grapefruit and quince come through on top of a jasmine and white musk base, for a scent that's light enough to wear every day, but will still earn her compliments.

• Tatcha Dewy Skin & Lips Hydrating Ritual Set

  3/53

  Tatcha

  Dewy Skin & Lips Hydrating Ritual Set

  $83

  Amazon

  Treat her to a midwinter pick-me-up with this set of Japanese-inspired products. The Dewy Skin & Lips Hydrating Ritual Set comes with an intensely moisturizing lip mask, a gentle face wash, and the brand’s Dewy Skin Cream, which one Allure editor says “has a luminous finish that makes my skin look fresh and radiant.” Sign us up.

• Ugg Tasman II Slipper

  4/53

  UGG

  Tasman II Slipper

  $125

  Amazon

  $125

  Nordstrom

  Warm, cozy slippers are always a hit. Ugg’s Tasman II is a major upgrade from her old pair, with a super-soft, shearling lining and some pretty embroidery around the ankle.

• Benefit Glam Cube Holiday Calendar Set

  5/53

  Benefit Cosmetics

  Glam Cube Holiday Calendar Set

  $149

  Nordstrom

  $149

  Ulta Beauty

  $149

  Revolve

  Benefit did not come to play with its Glam Cube Holiday Calendar Set. Inside, your giftee will find over 20 mini and full-size makeup and skin care products, including Allure editor favorites like the Hoola Powder Bronzer and the 24-Hour Brow Setter Shaping & Setting Gel. (And yes, the box even swivels like a Rubix cube—but doesn’t require hours of puzzle-solving.)

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  • 6 Best Lip Masks for a Soft, Plump, and Flake-Free Feel
  • 48 Best Gifts for Teen Girls That Are Anything But Basic
  • These Advent Calendars Are the Gifts That Keep on Giving

• Guerlain Rouge G

  6/53

  Guerlain

  Rouge G

  $43

  Nordstrom

  Before you scroll: This is no ordinary lipstick. Guerlain’s Rouge G is a customizable lipstick case with a built-in mirror that your giftee can fill with the shade of their choice (the actual bullet of product is sold separately). This year, it won a Best of Beauty Award for its clever, timeless design: “There are very few items in my beauty collection that I know I'll pass on to my daughter, and the Guerlain Rouge G is at the top of the list,” says Allure social director Kassidy Silva. “It’s a pocket-size luxury that's meant to last.” (Want to go the extra mile? Pair it with a gift card, so she can choose her favorite shade to fill it with.)

• Dyson Airwrap ID Multi-Styler and Dryer

  7/53

  Dyson

  Airwrap ID Multi-Styler and Dryer

  $649

  Amazon

  $650

  Ulta Beauty

  $650

  Dyson

  Plain and simple, the Dyson Airwrap ID is one of the most coveted hot tools around. Its versatility is unmatched, it all but eliminates heat damage, and the super-fast styling time is the icing on the cake (it’s a Best of Beauty Award winner for a reason!). Pro tip: If the Airwrap ID sits slightly outside your budget, go halfsies with a like-minded gifter.

• Olive & June Gel Mani System Set

  8/53

  Olive & June

  Gel Mani System Set

  $85

  Amazon

  The Best of Beauty Award-winning Gel Mani System Set from Olive & June impressed us, big time. “I found the kit to be easy to use and loved the results,” says Allure content director Kara McGrath. “It produces a glossy manicure that feels as strong as the one I’d get at a salon,” added senior editor Jesa Marie Calaor. It comes with everything they’ll need to get started, and while there’s a bit of a learning curve, the two- to three-week wear time is worth it.

• RPZL The Morgan Stacked Cuff

  9/53

  RPZL

  The Morgan Stacked Cuff

  $30

  Amazon

  Yes, your mom adores her drugstore claw clip (and, duh, same), but allow her to mix things up with this totally trending (and Best of Beauty Award-winning) RPZL The Morgan Stacked Cuff. The chunky, gold-toned cuff is fastened to an elastic hair tie to vibe-boost even the most low-effort ponytails. Instant sophistication.

• Summer Fridays The Jet Lag Essentials Hydration Set

  10/53

  Summer Fridays

  The Jet Lag Essentials Hydration Set

  $34

  Sephora

  On top of the Best of Beauty Award-winning Jet Lag Mask, this Summer Fridays set includes de-puffing undereye masks, a soothing face mist, and a hydrating serum. Basically, everything dull, dry skin needs for a total refresh.

• Theraface Depuffing Wand

  11/53

  Theraface

  Depuffing Wand

  $170

  Amazon

  $169

  Nordstrom

  $170

  Ulta Beauty

  One device, two settings: The tip of Theraface’s Depuffing Wand warms up to boost circulation and then cools down to tackle swelling and make pores look smaller. We tested it for months before giving it a Best of Beauty Award for its quick, effective technique. “This tool is your shortcut to a snatched face,” says Allure shopping director Shanna Shipin. “When using the cool setting in the A.M., I can immediately see a difference in my face. I also love how soothing the heat setting is before bed—the warmth is supposed to help with product absorption.”

• Clinique Almost Lipstick in Black Honey and Pink Honey Stocking Stuffer

  12/53

  Clinique

  Almost Lipstick in Black Honey and Pink Honey Stocking Stuffer

  $50

  Ulta Beauty

  Clinique’s Almost Lipstick in Black Honey has been a makeup bag staple for decades—now, you can snag it along with the Pink Honey shade, too, for a loved one. Both sheer lip balms are packed with moisturizing castor seed oil for soft, smooth lips and the perfect hint of color.

• Tower28 x Poppi Fizz + Frost Blush Lip Kit

  13/53

  Tower 28

  Fizz + Frost Blush Lip Kit

  $26

  Sephora

  $26

  Revolve

  $26

  Credo Beauty

  This new collab between prebiotic soda brand Poppi and makeup brand Tower28 has their name written all over it. The blush is yet another 2025 Best of Beauty Award winner—we love how pigmented it is (but still user-friendly—no blush blindness here). “I love that it’s self-setting, so I know it won’t fade or slip throughout the day,” says Allure commerce editor Sarah Han. Also included: A Tower28 ShineOn Lip Oil Jelly that moisturizes lips, adds a sheer shimmer, and is flavored like Poppi’s Cranberry Frizz soda.

  More from Allure

  • These Advent Calendars Are the Gifts That Keep on Giving
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  • 6 Best Lip Masks for a Soft, Plump, and Flake-Free Feel
  • 48 Best Gifts for Teen Girls That Are Anything But Basic

• Oura Ring 4

  14/53

  Ōura

  Ring 4

  $349

  Amazon

  The Oura Ring 4 tracks sleep, stress, and activity, then bundles all of those stats into a simple readiness score the wearer can use to plan their day. If she’s into all things health and fitness, she’ll likely appreciate the smart, personalized advice Oura sends straight to their phone.

• Shark CryoGlow LED Face Mask

  15/53

  Shark

  CryoGlow LED Face Mask

  $349

  Amazon

  $350

  Dermstore

  $350

  Ulta Beauty

  Our favorite LED mask makes an excellent present for the person who has (almost) everything. In addition to firming, acne-busting red light, it has cold cryotherapy settings that kick puffiness around the eyes to the curb. “I like the cooling, calming feel as I bask in the mask’s LED lights,” reported one Allure staffer. More of that in 2026, please.

• Tom Ford Fabulous Candle

  16/53

  Tom Ford

  Fabulous Candle

  $140

  Nordstrom

  For the giftee who talks like a sailor and smells like a saint, meet Tom Ford’s Fucking Fabulous Candle. Proudly emblazoned with the F-bomb, this sultry candle is scented like rich, spicy leather, tonka bean, and sage. Effing delicious.

• Jolie Filtered Showerhead

  17/53

  Jolie

  Filtered Showerhead

  $169

  Ulta Beauty

  $169

  Revolve

  Hard water can mean hard times for hair. If you've heard your giftee complaining about brittle strands (or dry skin), she may be in the market for a showerhead filter and not even know it. Jolie makes a sleek option—available in five colors, to match any bathroom aesthetic—that promises to catch chlorine and heavy metals that can strip skin and hair of natural oils.

• Jones Road Miracle Balm

  18/53

  Jones Road

  Miracle Balm

  $40

  Jones Road

  Jones Road's Miracle Balm is the everything-in-one product that low-effort beauty lovers have dreamt of. Wrap and pass a jar of this glowy goodness to your best friend, so she always looks like she just came back from vacation. She can apply the balm with a finger (just be sure to tell her to “break” or press down firmly on the balm to activate it first) or makeup sponge to her lips, cheeks, eyes, and even the tip of her nose.

  "If your skin is dull, dry, and needs some waking up, you absolutely need this product," shopping director Shanna Shipin attests. "I can use it anywhere on my face for instant life. Yes, life. It adds a natural wash to the skin and doesn't sink into fine lines or accentuate my pitted acne scars." Shipin notes the colors are buildable, comfortable, and so goof-proof that you really don't need a mirror to apply them. (Her favorite is the red-bronze Tawny.)

• Osea Bestsellers Body Set

  19/53

  Osea

  Bestsellers Body Set

  $48

  Nordstrom

  $48

  Revolve

  Harnessing the power of seaweed, botanical oils, and essential fatty acids, Osea’s Bestsellers Body Care Set—made up of a body butter, oil, balm, and scrub—buffs, smooths, and rehydrates dry skin. This non-daunting quartet makes it easy for her to incorporate new steps into her routine without a total overhaul.

• Hatch Restore 3

  20/53

  Hatch

  Restore 3

  $170

  Amazon

  $170

  Nordstrom

  $170

  Ulta Beauty

  A TikTok-viral product that's actually worth it? Groundbreaking. The Hatch Restore 3 is a sunrise alarm clock, white noise machine, and bedside light rolled into one. If anything can turn her into a morning person, it's this.

• Cozy Earth Silk Pillow

  21/53

  Cozy Earth

  Silk Pillow

  $198

  Cozy Earth

  $198

  Anthropologie

  Shipin (a mom of two girls) called the Cozy Earth Silk Pillow "life-changing" and had no regrets when she accidentally ordered two. If you're familiar with synthetic down, you know you can usually tell the difference—but mulberry silk turns out to be the perfect alternative. It's stuffed inside the actual pillowcase, which makes for the ideal firmness.

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• Phlur Vanilla Skin Hair & Body Fragrance Mist

  22/53

  Phlur

  Vanilla Skin Hair & Body Fragrance Mist

  $38

  Amazon

  $38

  Nordstrom

  $38

  Revolve

  This 2024 Best of Beauty-winning bottle of Phlur Vanilla Skin Hair & Body Fragrance Mist is the definition of irresistible. A few spritzes of this mist and you'll understand why it won our hearts. "Vanilla Skin couldn't be a better name for this mist," says associate beauty editor Annie Blay. "It's sweet and light, giving gourmand warmth while maintaining a natural musk that doesn’t make it too sugary."

• TheraBody TheraGun Mini

  23/53

  Therabody

  TheraGun Mini

  $220

  Amazon (3rd Generation)

  $220

  Dermstore (3rd Generation)

  $220

  Ulta Beauty (3rd Generation)

  The portable version of Therabody's classic massager, the Theragun Mini is great for smoothing out smaller kinks and knots in the hips and shoulders. Whether she needs muscle therapy post-workout or is struggling with mobility in her later years, this gadget—which comes with three attachments—can be a huge source of relief.

• NuFace Mini + Starter Kit

  24/53

  NuFace

  Mini + Starter Kit

  $250

  Amazon

  $250

  Nordstrom

  $250

  Dermstore

  The microcurrent tool is like a face-sculpting workout that might sound too good to be true, but take it from board-certified dermatologist Zain Husain, MD. "The microcurrent stimulates energy production to drive the creation of collagen and elastin in the skin, creating a more lifted appearance,” Dr. Husain explains. This NuFace Mini + Starter Kit comes with everything she needs to try it herself.

• 111Skin Celestial Black Diamond Eye Mask

  25/53

  111Skin

  Celestial Black Diamond Eye Mask

  $120

  Nordstrom (8-Count)

  $120

  Dermstore (8-Count)

  Mom loves an undereye mask, and you love to spoil mom. Grab her a splurgey 8-pack of 111Skin’s Celestial Black Diamond Eye Mask for a relaxing, hydrating, and de-puffing session. She’ll appreciate the inclusion of hard-working ingredients like hyaluronic acid and a peptide complex.

• Anthropologie The Fiona Beaded Bag: Food & Drink Edition

  26/53

  Anthropologie

  The Fiona Beaded Bag: Food & Drink Edition

  $98

  Anthropologie

  The radish-printed Fiona Beaded Bag from Anthropologie is simply to die for. The intricately glass-beaded exterior is a nod to her favorite veggie and looks so darn cute with everything. If she’s not so into radishes, we also stan the pear and apple prints.

• Hourglass Travel Vegan Brush Set

  27/53

  Hourglass

  Travel Vegan Brush Set

  $340

  Nordstrom

  $340

  Sephora

  Lots of brands tout products you can apply with your finger, but sometimes, a digit just won’t do. That’s when we wrap and pass this Hourglass Vegan Brush Travel Set. The versatility of these brushes is divine, and the presentation is beautiful.

• Brightland The Artist Capsule 4-Piece Infused Olive Oil Set

  28/53

  Brightland

  The Artist Capsule 4-Piece Infused Olive Oil Set

  $150

  Amazon

  $150

  Nordstrom

  What’s a midlife crisis without a new hobby? For your aunt, it’s binge-watching Gordon Ramsey videos and suddenly becoming an incredible chef. Grab her this 4-Piece Infused Olive Oil Set from Brightland. The bottles themselves are stunning, with flavors to match. The set includes olive oils infused with chili oil, garlic, lemon, and basil.

• Nécessaire The Body Essentials

  29/53

  Nécessaire

  The Body Essentials

  $40

  Amazon

  $40

  Nordstrom

  If your loved one is looking to amp up their body-care routine, there’s no better way to kick things off than with Nécessaire’s The Body Essentials. Complete with The Body Wash, The Body Lotion, and The Deodorant, this luxe trio delivers nourishing vitamins and can be purchased in the Eucalyptus scent or fragrance-free.

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• Béis The Cosmetics Case

  30/53

  Béis

  The Cosmetics Case

  $78

  Nordstrom

  $78

  Revolve

  An organizer like Béis’s The Cosmetics Case will earn you major points, with its sleek design, plentiful pockets, spill-proof build, and mini mirror. It fits all of her essentials (and then some).

• New Balance 530 Sneaker

  31/53

  New Balance

  530 Sneaker

  $100

  Nordstrom

  $100

  Anthropologie

  Sneaks she wants, sneaks she gets. New Balance’s 530S sneakers are the classic, versatile 90s dad shoe that don’t go out of style. They come in lots of colors, but we love the Angora/Dusk Shower blue combo.

• Eberjey Gisele Relaxed Jersey Knit Short Pajamas

  32/53

  Eberjey

  Gisele Relaxed Jersey Knit Short Pajamas

  $148

  Amazon

  $148

  Nordstrom

  $148

  Revolve

  Lightweight and comfy-cozy, Eberjey's Gisele Relaxed Jersey Knit Short Pajamas are just as much for bed as for camera-off WFH days. They come in lots of cute colors, like white with blue piping or light pink with black piping.

• Stanley The Quencher H2.0 Flowstate Tumbler

  33/53

  Stanley

  The Quencher H2.0 Flowstate Tumbler

  $45

  Amazon

  $45

  Nordstrom

  Stanley’s The Quencher H2.0 Flowstate Tumbler will keep your bestie hydrated all day long. Whether she notoriously skimps on water drinking or chugs her H2O like a world-class athlete, this stainless steel tumbler stores a whopping 40 ounces that’ll quench her thirst wherever, whenever.

• Aura Carver Digital Photo Frame

  34/53

  Aura Carver

  Digital Photo Frame

  $149

  Amazon

  $150

  Nordstrom

  Nana is always on your case for not sending her enough pics of you and your growing family. And you know what? She’s right; you could do better (brave to admit!). Thankfully, Aura’s Photo Frame makes it super easy. Upload photos from your phone and they’ll go straight to her Aura, which will display them in a slideshow. Whether you do a photo dump every Sunday or upload a new image nightly, she’ll be totally tickled.

• Favorite Daughter Classic Logo Baseball Cap

  35/53

  Favorite Daughter

  Classic Logo Baseball Cap

  $48

  Amazon

  $48

  Nordstrom

  $48

  Revolve

  This one's an easy smash hit for your daughter. Just make sure that if you have more than one, each gets her own. The cotton twill hat comes in a bunch of colorways and is decorated with the brand's name, which doubles as a cheeky nod to her awesomeness.

• Estelle Colored Glass Stemless Wine Glasses

  36/53

  Estelle

  Colored Glass Stemless Wine Glasses

  $170

  Nordstrom

  $170

  Anthropologie

  A set of six hand-blown pink Estelle Colored Glass Stemless Wine Glasses is the beautiful gift your loved one didn't see coming. If they're not team vino, the brand also makes rocks tumblers and highball glasses that'll dazzle equally.

• Dior Lip Glow Oil

  37/53

  Dior

  Lip Glow Oil

  $42

  Nordstrom

  $42

  Ulta Beauty

  Dior’s Addict Lip Glow Oil is that girl, and for good reason. The nourishing, tinting, and never-sticky lippie doles out unbeatable shine and moisture. Gift the lip oil in any of the 11 hues and watch her swipe it on right out of the box. A special shout out to the cushiony doe-foot applicator, which saturates the pout every time.

  More from Allure

  • 48 Best Gifts for Teen Girls That Are Anything But Basic
  • 9 Best Lip Oils That Offer All of the Gloss and None of the Gloop
  • 6 Best Lip Masks for a Soft, Plump, and Flake-Free Feel
  • These Advent Calendars Are the Gifts That Keep on Giving

• Diptyque Solid Perfume

  38/53

  Diptyque

  Solid Perfume

  $76

  Nordstrom

  $76

  Diptyque

  A welcome switch-up from her traditional eau de parfum, the Diptyque Solid Perfume is a must-have portable fragrance, available in many of the brand’s most beloved scents such as Doson (pictured here), Eau Rose, and L'Eau Papier. Not only is it quite a bit more affordable than its bottled counterparts, but the metal packaging is stunning and can be refilled over and over.

• Aesop Resurrection Duet

  39/53

  Aesop

  Resurrection Duet

  $140

  Nordstrom

  $140

  Dermstore

  $140

  Bluemercury

  Ask any Allure editor, and they'll emphatically explain how and why Aesop's hand wash and lotion are unrivaled—and it's not just because of the Insta-worthy packaging. The formulas are super luxe and aromatic, and you only need a tiny dollop to cleanse and moisturize your skin.

• Merit Five Minute Morning

  40/53

  Merit

  Five Minute Morning

  $206 $176 (15% off)

  Merit Beauty

  It's no secret we love Merit—after all, the minimalist beauty brand earned three Best of Beauty Awards the same year it launched (2022) and continues to rake ‘em in. For the busy women in your life, the Five Minute Morning streamlines their a.m. routines without compromising quality. This seven-piece set includes a cream blush balm, a makeup brush, a lash-enhancing mascara, and more.

• Bose QuietComfort Bluetooth Headphones

  41/53

  Bose

  QuietComfort Bluetooth Headphones

  $359

  Amazon

  Bose knows headphones, and your mom has been eyeing the QuietComfort over-ear pair ever since Santa misread her list (read between the lines, dad). These deliver first-rate noise cancellation, high-fidelity audio, an adjustable EQ, and all the comfort needed for all-day wear. We say this with only love for the Airpod Maxes, but these are just as good and a couple hundred bucks cheaper.

• Papier Wellness Journal

  42/53

  Papier

  Wellness Journal

  $32 $27 (16% off)

  Amazon

  $35

  Papier

  Papier has a vast selection of personalized gifts, but there's something that stands out about the vibe of this painterly Wellness Journal. Inside, there are 12 weeks of pages that guide her through reflecting on her goals, habits, sleep, and moments of gratitude. And the best daughter award goes to you.

• Canopy Bedside Humidifier

  43/53

  Canopy

  Bedside Humidifier

  $99

  Amazon

  $159

  Sephora

  Turns out your daughter’s beauty routine can extend beyond the products on top of her vanity. Air quality can be just as significant to her skin health as her favorite moisturizer, and the Canopy Humidifier Starter Set can help with that. It can also help relieve allergy and cold symptoms and doubles as a scent diffuser.

• Mejuri Dôme Huggies

  44/53

  Mejuri

  Dôme Huggies

  $58

  Mejuri

  For earring-wearers of any age, the Mejuri Dôme Huggies are a good value for you and a hit for her. Made of 18-karat gold vermeil and 92.5% pure silver, these effortlessly cool chunky huggies are perfect for sensitive ears. If hoops aren't her thing, Mejuri makes a ton of other sweet options, like these Gemstone Mini Studs.

• Allure Beauty Box

  45/53

  Allure Beauty Box

  Quarterly Subscription

  $79

  Allure Beauty Box

  The Allure Beauty Box is the gift that keeps on giving, with skin care, makeup, hair care, and more delivered to their door every month. Each box comes with at least six products worth $100 or more that have been tested and approved by Allure beauty editors.

  More from Allure

  • 6 Best Lip Masks for a Soft, Plump, and Flake-Free Feel
  • 9 Best Lip Oils That Offer All of the Gloss and None of the Gloop
  • These Advent Calendars Are the Gifts That Keep on Giving
  • 48 Best Gifts for Teen Girls That Are Anything But Basic

• Yves Saint Laurent Libre Eau de Parfum

  46/53

  Yves Saint Laurent

  Libre Eau de Parfum

  $145

  Nordstrom

  $145

  Ulta Beauty

  This TikTok-loved fragrance has all the makings of her new signature scent. Its warm-yet-floral profile features notes of lavender and orange blossom, thoughtfully rounded out with hints of vanilla. As one Allure editor previously put it, this fragrance "smells like the kind of woman whose finances are together." Sold.

• Ember Temperature Control Smart Mug 2

  47/53

  Ember

  Temperature Control Smart Mug 2

  $150 $90 (40% off)

  Amazon

  There are coffee sippers and coffee chuggers, and this one's for the former, who'll appreciate still being able to drink warm tea or coffee hours after it was made. She can charge the mug for 1.5 hours of portable heat or keep it set on its charging station for all-day toastiness.

• Hermès Les Mains Hermès Nail File Set

  48/53

  Hermès

  Les Mains Hermès Nail File Set

  $62

  Nordstrom

  The Hermès Les Mains Nail File Set is a perfect example of a quiet-luxury lift your loved one didn't know she needed (and maybe doesn’t actually need…but isn’t that the point?). The set is a welcome step up from the disintegrating nail file she's had for eons, and the signature orange Hermès box is a serotonin boost in and of itself. Give it some time, and maybe you’ll be able to afford to gift her a matching handbag. Maybe. Someday.

• Dermaflash Luxe+ Advanced

  49/53

  Dermaflash

  Luxe+ Advanced

  $199

  Amazon

  $199

  Nordstrom

  Long story short, the Dermaflash Luxe+ Advanced is where science steps in to snatch your loved one's face. This tool removes the topmost layer of the skin that's composed of dead cells, allowing the face to look smoother and brighter. Take it from former Allure editor Taylore Glynn, who said, "The results were instant and obvious: My skin was glowy with no product on it whatsoever, and the contours of my face looked much more defined."

• Parachute Classic Turkish Cotton Robe

  50/53

  Parachute

  Classic Turkish Cotton Robe

  $149

  Nordstrom

  $149

  Parachute

  If your mother-in-law has finally come around to replacing the robe she's been using since you first met, Parachute's plush option is a strong contender. It's soft and absorbent, but won't retain water for mildewy ickiness. The brand also sells some of our favorite bath towels, in case you want to tack those onto your order.

• Alo Warrior Mat

  51/53

  Alo

  Warrior Mat

  $148

  Alo

  The Alo Warrior Mat is satisfyingly thick, weighty, and nonslip. At eight pounds, it's definitely heavier than most travel mats, but if she drives to the studio, it shouldn't be an issue. Like everything else at Alo, this yoga mat comes in a bunch of cute colors.

• Oribe Gold Lust Repair & Restore Duo

  52/53

  Oribe

  Gold Lust Repair & Restore Duo

  $109

  Amazon

  $109

  Dermstore

  Oribe has delivered yet again. The Gold Lust Duo features two luxe, latherable formulas to spruce up your loved one’s shower. The shampoo amps glossiness while dishing out heat protection, and the conditioner strengthens weakened strands and seals in moisture.

• Gucci Trademark Heart Necklace

  53/53

  Gucci

  Trademark Heart Necklace

  $330

  Nordstrom

  Gucci's Trademark Heart Necklace is a great special-occasion gift. The pendant is engraved with the classic "Gucci" stamp, made of 925 sterling silver, and totally hypoallergenic. It's the perfect way to dress up a jeans-and-tee fit.

  More from Allure

  • These Advent Calendars Are the Gifts That Keep on Giving
  • 6 Best Lip Masks for a Soft, Plump, and Flake-Free Feel
  • 9 Best Lip Oils That Offer All of the Gloss and None of the Gloop
  • 48 Best Gifts for Teen Girls That Are Anything But Basic