Author: gnwrfi

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TL;DR:

• What it is: Like a 10-minute coffee break, but for your eyes
• What it does: Helps perk up tired-looking eyes with caffeine
• Who it’s for: Night owls who are forced to be morning people, morning people who don’t mind an extra step in their routine, and literally anyone who has 10 minutes to spare

If you’re anything like me, you’ve negotiated this scenario with yourself: hit snooze for just another nine minutes. But then those nine minutes turn into another, and that one micro-descision sets off a chain reaction for the rest of your day.

Recently, I had a genius thought: What if I used those initial nine minutes (plus one more) a little more productively? Enter Patchology Moodpatch Perk Up Eye Gels.

I pop the cooling gel patches under my eyes while I’m doing everything else—making coffee, getting dressed, deciding whether my hair can survive another day of dry shampoo—and let the caffeine-infused formula get to work in just 10 minutes to reduce puffiness (and all the other evidence that I was scrolling on TikTok way too late).

By the time I peel them off, my undereyes feel cooler and smoother and look brighter and considerably more awake. They also feel refreshed and hydrated, which makes my concealer go on easily instead of immediately settling into every tiny line.

Do I still go to bed later than I told myself I would? Unfortunately. Do I still hit snooze? Sometimes. Am I perpetually running late? Always. But do my eyes show it? Nope.

Patchology Moodpatch Perk Up Eye Gels is in the September Allure Beauty Box.

GET THE BOX

Patchology Moodpatch Perk Up Eye Gels

$17 at Patchology$17 at Patchology

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What does a mermaid wear when she’s off duty?

Like the great folklorists of yore, I found myself contemplating this question over a Diet Coke under woven light fixtures and draped plant fronds at a bustling Mediterranean restaurant in Chicago. Unlike those writers, I, however, have the pleasure of chatting with a mermaid on this July day. Or at least someone who plays one onstage. I am talking about Zara Larsson, the pop phenomenon who is chiseling her place on the Mount Rushmore of Swedish imports, right alongside ABBA, Robyn, and IKEA.

Until this moment, when we are face to face in a small two-person booth, I had imagined that Larsson was some sort of fairy-tale being—always sparkling. I ask if her more-is-more aesthetic is a calculated middle finger to the clean girl look du jour. “No, I’m slightly tacky. I love a little bit of tackiness,” she says matter-of-factly, as one would announce the weather. “I love the sleazy [look]. Like Snooki, she's on the mood board for sure. Paris Hilton, like night out when it's five a.m., that shit. I've never been drawn to the clean girl.”

There’s nothing minimal about Larsson’s presentation. Tracks upon tracks of extensions to create anything-but-effortless beachy waves, marine life-inspired makeup, and enough body glitter to dust a few acres of a Swedish forest combine to create Zara Larsson, the pop star. In case you need even more visuals, her current Midnight Sun (also the title of her latest album) aesthetic was inspired by an appearance she made on RuPaul’s Drag Race. “The keychains, the glitter, my little Zen top, the sparkles, the platform shoes… I was just like, That is Midnight Sun,” she says.

“I love the sleazy [look]. Like Snooki, she's on the mood board for sure… I've never been drawn to the clean girl.”

But back to my original question about her off-duty look. I note that today this mermaid wears a neon-pink, three-quarter-length-sleeve shirt over a demurely stoned bralette, white Bermuda shorts, and flip-flops. Oh, and a fresh spray tan. Larsson’s hair is pulled back into what I assume is an everyday low ponytail (except it reaches more than halfway down her back). Unlike her high-saturation, hypermaximalist, onstage glamour, she’s free of face gems and Technicolor eye shadow—bare-faced, save for a neutral lip combo. Revlon ColorStay Longwear Lip Liner in Nude (of course, I had to ask) and a Glossier clear gloss. (She purchases the gloss in bulk to keep in her bags and jackets. “She’s my girl,” she says.)

Larsson is fresh off a flight from Sicily. Come this evening, she’ll perform at The Vic Theatre for one of Lollapalooza’s Aftershows, a more intimate venue, before she takes to the outdoor stage set tomorrow. For both, she will be in full concert regalia, performing tracks from Midnight Sun, including its title track, which earned Larsson her first Grammy nomination for Best Dance Pop Recording, among other confections from her extensive discography.

As an agenda-waving LGBTQ+ representative, I’ve been in the trenches for The Pop Girl since birth. So, I’m keenly aware of the stigma against performers who style themselves as Larsson does: flashy, unabashedly over-the-top, a practitioner of grown-up-but-girlish whimsy. And yet what might read as superficial to the untrained eye belies intentionality and artistry. And Larsson is committed to her vision—to her world. “In a way, I have always seen myself as a performer, and I think that’s where my love is,” she says. “But as I grow older, I’m also an artist, and I think that’s a little bit of a difference, a performer and an artist… I want to build a world, an identity, a universe, a sound, a feeling.” That’s what she and her team of creatives, notably her photographer and director, Charlotte Rutherford, and makeup artist of around six years, Sophia Sinot, have achieved.

“It makes me so fucking happy to look out into the crowd,” she says, “or even in my tagged photos on Instagram, and I see that people do the makeup—they wear the glitter, they have a little dolphin.” (The dolphins are a nod to the ironic social media trend where people would share pessimistic captions overlaid on an image of leaping dolphins with audio from “Symphony,” her song with Clean Bandit.) “People are tapped into the artistry of it. And the songs are part of that universe, [but it’s about] more than having one song that streams really well, [and] nobody knows anything about me or what I do, which I felt like before.”

Nana Jacqueline coat. To create a similar makeup look: Urban Decay 24/7 Moondust Glittery Eyeshadow in Cosmic, e.l.f. Cosmetics Blush in Bright Pink, MAC Cosmetics Powder Kiss Hazy Matte Lipstick in Be My Bridesmaid. Cat: Sophia from Pawsitively Famous.

Of course, she’s talking about her escape from the Khia Asylum, which, for those with sub-12 hours of daily screen time, is a sort of liminal space for pop girls with a hit or two, but still lacking lasting mainstream commercial success—a holding chamber for those in a “flop era.” In fandom culture, the Khia Asylum represents one of the greatest challenges any artist might face in the 21st century: irrelevancy.

Simply scrolling TikTok or Instagram in the last year, you might assume Larsson’s career is one meteoric shot into the spotlight—an overnight sensation propelled by clicks and charm. (Really, though, she just loves social media; more on that later.) But the reality is this: Larsson, 28, has been in the game for quite some time. For almost 20 years, in fact. Born near Stockholm, Larsson had her first brush with fame in 2008, when she was 10 years old, after winning Talang, Sweden’s iteration of the Got Talent franchise. Four years later, she landed a record deal. “Even before the talent show, I was doing voiceovers and acting and was in musicals,” she says. “My life, internally, doesn't feel that different. But then, of course, there are a lot of new eyes on me now, especially in the US.”

“It makes me so happy to look out into the crowd, or even in my tagged photos on Instagram, and I see that people do the makeup—they wear the glitter, they have a little dolphin.”

Indeed, this might be the biggest moment in Larsson’s career to date. A simple search of her name unfurls a long list of headlines. Most of them include “viral” in one way or another. There’s Alysa Liu’s exhibition skate to the remix of PinkPantheress’ “Stateside” (on which Larsson is featured) at the Milano Cortina Winter Olympics, or Google’s nod to the aforementioned dolphin meme: Two dolphins leap across the screen for any Zara Larsson-related inquiries. Her single “Lush Life” went viral in November 2025 over 10 years after the song was released—the catalyst for a dance challenge to the song, with TikTok posts using the track reportedly amassing upwards of 14.5 billion total views.

Dolce & Gabbana bra. Dolce & Gabbana panty. To create a similar makeup look: MAC Cosmetics Metallic Eye Shadow in Silver Dollar and Fenty Beauty Gloss Bomb Universal Lip Luminizer in FU$$Y.

Behind the glitter, there is a sense of poetic vulnerability within Larsson that comes out in our conversation, specifically regarding her career’s ups and downs. She told me about the first stop on the US leg of her tour in February, a venue in Portland, Oregon. The stage was “a fucking pizza slice,” she says. Small. It felt too small for her band and dancers. For someone with ambition as far-reaching and deep as the ocean, the stage was misaligned with where she imagined she’d be at this juncture in her career. And from that misalignment arose insecurity. Insecurity that’s all-too-relatable in this digital age, when social media exists as a highlight reel for achievement—not a mirror to reality. “It's not that it's embarrassing, but I felt like, ‘Ugh, it would be so much nicer if I was playing arenas right now,’” she says. “Do I want to post pictures of the theaters I'm in?” Her dream is to perform in arenas—high-octane stage productions that can match her explosive stage presence and vocals. She adds, “I think it's just a disconnect when you have that vision for yourself, but in reality you're not there. But it’s gonna be fun for people to follow me along on that journey.”

“I think it's just a disconnect when you have that vision for yourself, but in reality you're not there.”

But now, Larsson is more in control than ever. In her own words, Midnight Sun is more “her” than anything she’s created before. She recently changed record labels (“It’s all love,” she says, but mentioned needing a change). She says she wants to reintroduce herself as Zara Larsson the seasoned artist—not Zara Larsson the child star. “I don’t want to go into a studio or sit at a meeting and feel like I’m 16,” she says. “And I don't think anyone who worked with me did that on purpose. They wanted to really help me, but I think it made me feel like I couldn't trust in what I was wanting to do—or even actually entertain the thought of what I wanted to do because I thought, Well, what do I know?” She has the singing voice, but now she’s pushing herself to use her voice as a full-fledged artist—weighing in on everything from stage lighting to writing more of her own music. And there’s little doubt, from what I gathered, that this burgeoning creative control is fueling the Larsson renaissance.

Paco Rabanne dress. Pandora rings. To create a similar makeup look: L’Oréal Paris Paradise Le Shadow Stick Smokey Eyeshadow in Moonlit Metal and Morphe Liplock Glossy Lipstick in Caught Rose.

I take a post-interview respite before my night with Larsson backstage. As I sip a lukewarm (plastic) glass of rosé beside the Chicago River, my eyes wander across the cityscape. I spot a gaggle of Lollapalooza attendees dawdling along the sidewalk in their festival attire. Taking diligent notes: “Diesel belts and an array of Pantone earth tones/beiges/neutrals/browns,” I write. Then, I realize something. Beyond her talent, hustle, and web browser-leaping dolphins, there’s little wonder as to why Larsson stands out amongst her cohort. She bucks the norm, opting to throw a shimmer, chain, or rhinestone on anything that enters the world she’s crafted. She’s as hard to miss as a Lisa Frank coloring book atop a West Elm coffee table.

When Larsson appears, the world takes notice. As evidenced by my arrival at The Vic Theatre. Upon seeing the theater’s marquee, my Uber driver exclaims, “Zara Larsson is here!?” As I walk toward the venue, I encounter a mother and her daughter who have driven from Michigan to see Larsson perform. After Lollapalooza, they intend to travel abroad to see her once more. The girl, no older than seven, does the “Lush Life” dance for me, hoping Larsson will bring her onstage during the show. The Midnight Sun universe and the community Larsson has carefully nurtured are now in front of me. And as I expected, there’s a shit-ton of glitter.

Chanel dress. Pandora earrings. To create a similar makeup look: NARS Powder Blush in 959 Slow Burn, NYX Professional Makeup Butter Gloss in Madeleine, and Gucci Long Lasting Satin Lipstick in 700 Crystal Black.

Backstage, Larsson’s feet rest on a vanity beside an enormous makeup kit that contains, if my math is correct, 16 blending sponges. She holds a cup of miso soup in one hand and her phone in the other, as a hairstylist blows out her hair. Earlier in the day, Larsson told me she’s addressing her screen time habits (she’s been reported to log 16 hours a day) by doing the New York Times crossword. (Yes, she tackles it on her phone, but spiritually, I understand where her head is at, because I’m also in screen time recovery.) Her fingers tap away as her long hair is pinned in rollers.

At this moment, I witness Larsson’s creative voice in action. She coordinates her vision with her team, firmly but collaboratively, sourcing opinions from the room—without compromising. Larsson inspects her makeup in a pink hand mirror, debating whether or not to line the waterline (ultimately, it is), as makeup artist Sophia Sinot freehands a cheetah-print motif on her eyelids with Caia liquid eyeliner. “She knows what she wants,” Sinot later tells me. Now Larsson is deciding between two outfits, one for this evening at the Lollapalooza Aftershow and the other for tomorrow’s daytime performance. “It’s too simple,” she says of one option. Larsson outlines her priorities for the room: “cunty,” good for shaking ass (duh), and appropriate for “Midnight Sun.” She lands on a magenta beaded skirt and a lilac bra with sequined floral appliqués, and it’s back to the crossword. “Fish eggs,” Larsson asks the room. “Roe!” I exclaim.

“I want to build a world, an identity, a universe, a sound, a feeling.”

At one point, Larsson disappears from the room to film a now-viral TikTok. “Did you have good lighting?” someone asks. “Hella,” she responds.

It’s a bit jarring to see the laid-back woman I met earlier in the day fully realized as pop star Zara Larsson. In beauty, the word “transformation” is tossed around so often that it’s become insufferably trite, but observing Larsson emerge for her performance leaves me stumped for an alternative. The seemingly everyday person with whom I watched TikToks and waxed poetic about the symbiotic relationship between the LGBTQ+ fans and pop girls now stands onstage, surrounded by blinding lights (and bubbles at one point), to sing with masterful control and laser-focused intonation throughout splits, ass-shaking, and virtuosic hairography.

As a mermaid gains her tail upon making contact with water, it seems Zara Larsson becomes someone else entirely when she makes contact with a microphone. And as the bronze sculpture of another Nordic sea beauty—Edvard Eriksen’s The Little Mermaid—stares longingly across the waters of Copenhagen, Larsson looks on unflinchingly, too. Instead of a young prince or, you know, legs, she yearns for something else with equal fervor: more. Bigger, louder, sparklier, and now, irrefutably herself.

Watch Inside Zara Larsson's Makeup Appointment

Go behind the scenes with Zara Larsson as she gets ready for her Allure cover shoot. In this episode of Standing Appointment, Zara sits down for a glamorous makeup session sharing her inspiration behind her cover look. Watch as her makeup comes together from start to finish before she steps in front of the camera.

Collage: Jemeria Davison; Source images: Courtesy of brands and editorsSave StorySave this storySave StorySave this story

The best woody fragrances can transport you in an instant. With one spritz, you’re exploring the desert, wandering through a forest, or cozying up by a crackling fire. The “woody” fragrance category is a broad one, ranging from more traditional “tree”-centric notes like cedar and sandalwood to deeper, richer notes like patchouli and oud. “Sandalwood is creamy and soft, cedar is much drier and sharper, while oud can feel darker, smoky, or animalic,” explains Richard Saint-Ford, perfumer and Iggywoo founder. What connects them is a sense of warmth, texture, and earthiness; they tend to give a fragrance structure and make it feel grounded.” Into the woods we go! Ahead, discover some of our favorite woody perfumes.

Our Top Woody Perfumes

• Best Cedarwood: Lore Somewhere But Nowhere Eau de Parfum, $92
• Best Patchouli Woody: Chanel Coromandel Eau de Parfum, $355
• Best Oud: Dior La Collection Privée Purple Oud Eau de Parfum, $350
• Best Spicy Woody: Maison Margiela Replica By the Fireplace Eau de Toilette, $89
• Best Sandalwood: Maison Louis Marie No.04 Bois de Balincourt Eau de Parfum, $100

Frequently Asked QuestionsAccordionItemContainerButtonLargeChevron

• What are the different types of woody notes?
• Do woody scents last longer?
• How we test and review products
• Our staff and testers

Best Cedarwood: Lore Somewhere But Nowhere Eau de Parfum

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Lore

Somewhere But Nowhere Eau de Parfum

$92

Shop

$92

Sephora

Allure commerce market editor Sarah Hoffmann applying the Lore Somewhere But Nowhere Eau de Parfum

Sarah Hoffmann

Why we love it: Lore, a new-ish fragrance house that has already landed on the shelves at Sephora, calls Somewhere But Nowhere an “ode to Americana.” Its use of cedarwood as the hero ingredient does place you in an environment that feels deeply familiar yet fresh, thanks to the combo of cedar, sweetly spicy cardamom, bitter black tea, and a spoonful of creamy vanilla to soften the blunt edges. Maybe you’re in a prairie ghost town, maybe you’re in the desert, maybe you’re on a city street. Either way, you smell amazing with this 2026 Best of Beauty Award winner for best woody fragrance.

Tester feedback from commerce market editor Sarah Hoffmann

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“For a smaller, newer fragrance line, I'm so impressed with Lore. I've liked everything they've released, but I reach most often for Somewhere But Nowhere. I tend to gravitate towards the woody scents in my collection, but I didn't have an appropriately spicy and subtly sweet woody scent until now. It's very bold up front, but the dry down is super lovely. I can't wait to douse my favorite sweaters in it.” —Sarah Hoffmann, commerce market editor

Tester feedback from senior staff writer Elizabeth Gulino

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"My first thought when I sprayed Lore’s Somewhere But Nowhere on my skin was that it was masculine—and it is!—and that it should be worn beside a crackling outdoor fireplace, but don’t let that deter you from spritzing it on as soon as possible. I prefer to wear woody, spicy scents when I go out for dinner, drinks, or both, and this one fits right into my nighttime fragrance wardrobe." —Elizabeth Gulino, senior staff writer

More to know

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• Key notes: 0.33 oz, 1.7 oz
• Sizes: cardamom, cedarwood, black tea, vanilla

Best Patchouli Woody: Chanel Coromandel Eau de Parfum

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Chanel

Coromandel Eau de Parfum

$355

Chanel

Allure contributor Kara Nesvig applying the Chanel Coromandel Eau de Parfum

Kara Nesvig

Why we love it: Patchouli can be polarizing; some people love it, and others are completely turned off by the bold, earthy, often-damp and dank fragrance of the plant. Sure, it has a reputation as a hippie-dippie fragrance oil, but patchouli is a beloved part of a perfumer’s palette, and it appears in countless fragrances to add depth and sensuality. Chanel’s Coromandel is an exquisite interpretation of patchouli, playing into its innate intrigue with a wallop of amber and waxy, mysterious benzoin.

Tester feedback from contributor Kara Nesvig

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“I know this is a big declaration, but if I could only wear scents from one fragrance house for the rest of my life, I’d probably pick Chanel—and this rich, powerful, ultra-glamorous spin on patchouli (a fragrance note I happen to love) would be part of my rotation for sure. It absolutely radiates on the skin in the colder months; there’s nothing like catching a whiff on a sweater or jacket collar after a few days and sinking into the velvety patchouli and amber blend.” —Kara Nesvig, contributor

More to know

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• Key notes: cardamom, rose, carrot, cedar, sandalwood, papyrus, vetiver, silk musk
• Sizes: 1.7 oz, 3.4 oz

Best Oud: Dior La Collection Privée Purple Oud Eau de Parfum

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Dior

La Collection Privée Purple Oud Eau de Parfum

$350

Dior

Allure commerce editor Sarah Han applying the Dior La Collection Privée Purple Oud Eau de Parfum

Sarah Han

Why we love it: Maybe it’s the purple hue of the juice inside this luxe Dior scent—OK, it definitely is—but I immediately thought of Prince when I saw it. The iconic musician would probably love the fragrance and its purple-centric color and name, given it was his signature color, after all. You know who else loved purple? Monsieur Christian Dior, and Purple Oud was created in homage to his couture designs. Oud is the star here, uplifted by zesty pink pepper and orange and made even more luxurious with a sprinkling of precious saffron.

Tester feedback from commerce editor Sarah Han

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“Woody is not my typical fragrance preference, but this Dior is what I reach for when I want to switch up my typical lighter scents. It's a great going-out scent for me: strong, makes a statement, but not overwhelming. It's this unique blend of oud, pink pepper, and sweet orange—the latter is what really brings it home for me. It's that hint of freshness that makes it approachable. ” —Sarah Han, commerce editor

More to know

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• Key notes: 3.4 oz
• Sizes: pink pepper, saffron, orange, oud

Best Spicy Woody: Maison Margiela Replica By the Fireplace Eau de Toilette

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Maison Margiela

Replica By the Fireplace Eau de Toilette

$89

Nordstrom

$89

Sephora

Why we love it: Maison Margiela Replica’s scents connect fragrance and memory by honing in on specific feelings and moments, like snuggling up by a crackling fireplace on a cold night. By the Fireplace incorporates the entire experience: embers smoldering, chestnuts roasting, wearing your favorite cozy sweater, and smelling last night’s leftover vanilla perfume on the collar. And since we’re right on the precipice of fall and winter, ‘tis the season to warm up your fragrance routine.

Tester feedback from director of programming and development Logan Tsugita

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“If I had a signature scent, this would be it. If you’re looking to test the waters on woody fragrances, I think this is the perfect fragrance to start. It has vanilla tones that make it cozy and deep without being overbearing. In the colder months, it’s reminiscent of the comforting smell of a crackling fireplace; and in the warmer months, it’s like gathering around the fire pit by the beach.” —Logan Tsugita, director of programming and development

More to know

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• Key notes: clove, vanilla, chestnut
• Sizes: 0.34 oz, 1 oz, 3.4 oz

Best Sandalwood: Maison Louis Marie No.04 Bois de Balincourt Eau de Parfum

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Maison Louis Marie

No.04 Bois de Balincourt Eau de Parfum

$100

Amazon

$100

Revolve

$100

Dermstore

Why we love it: Sandalwood scents got a big boost thanks in part to the runaway success of Le Labo’s Santal 33 in the 2010s. Suddenly, it seemed like every brand had a sandalwood scent, but a few have stuck around long past the trend. Case in point: Maison Louis Marie’s No.04 Bois de Balincourt, a sandalwood-heavy scent that evokes a forest near the perfumer’s family home. Woody notes are definitely the star here, with added cedar, vetiver, amberwood, and a hint of cozy cinnamon to create the aromatic equivalent of a walk in the woods.

Tester feedback from temporary features director Kara McGrath

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“Bois de Balincourt is my ideal fragrance; I get loads of compliments every time I wear this blend of sandalwood, nutmeg, and amber. It's woody, but not too earthy. It's warm, but not too sweet. It's unique, but not odd or overpowering. It's creamy, but doesn't smell like straight-up milk. I love taking it with me when I travel, since it feels appropriate in every single situation.” —Kara McGrath, temporary features director

More to know

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• Key notes: sandalwood, cedarwood, amber wood, vetiver, cinnamon
• Sizes: 0.34 oz, 1.7 oz

Best Woody Floral: Thin Wild Mercury Chateau 1970 Eau de Parfum

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Thin Wild Mercury

Chateau 1970 Eau de Parfum

$165

Thin Wild Mercury

Why we love it: Thin Wild Mercury creates fragrances inspired by a specific time and place, and in this case, it’s a wild night in at the legendary Chateau Marmont hotel—the site of many rock ‘n roll revels and trysts. The scent opens with spicy citrus notes and a wallop of heady rose, but the most intriguing note in the bunch is one meant to replicate the distinct scent of a wooden armoire in a hotel room: a little musty and dry (in a good way!) with a shiny stain finish.

Tester feedback from Nesvig

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“I love, love, love rose fragrances; I wrote a whole story about them a few years back, and my obsession hasn’t waned since. One of my go-tos is this intoxicating, vintage-inspired fragrance from Cali-girl brand Thin Wild Mercury, which feels like something Linda Ronstadt would’ve worn. It’s loud, bold, and lasts forever, so if you’re sensitive to strong scents, skip it, but if you’re into feeling like a late-’60s or ‘70s movie star checking into the famous hotel, give it a spritz.” —Kara Nesvig, contributor

More to know

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• Key notes: citrus, nutmeg, rose, wood armoire, musks
• Sizes: 0.28 oz, 1.7 oz

Best Cozy Woody: Byredo Desert Dawn Eau de Parfum

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Byredo

Desert Dawn Eau de Parfum

$235

Nordstrom

$235

Bluemercury

$235

Sephora

Why we love it: As fall approaches, it’s natural to want to wrap yourself up in a fragrance that feels like a hug or your coziest, comfiest cashmere sweater. That’s Byredo’s Desert Dawn, a dry, woody skin scent that swaps the smoky warmth or green crispness for something more intimate. Spiced cardamom enlivens soft rose petal notes at the top, fading into a creamy heart of carrot and sandalwood before the drydown, a familiar, oh-so-comforting mix of papyrus, vetiver, and silky musk that feels like curling up with the person you love most.

More to know

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• Key notes: cardamom, rose, carrot, cedar, sandalwood, papyrus, vetiver, silk musk
• Sizes: 1.7 oz, 3.4 oz

Best Fresh Woody: Eauso Vert Dos Mil Años Eau de Parfum

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Eauso Vert

Dos Mil Años Eau de Parfum

$185

Shop

$185

Eauso Vert

Why we love it: Yes, woody fragrances can be fresh too! Case in point: Eauso Vert’s Dos Mil Años, a woody aromatic scent that opens with a blast of grapefruit. The juicy, tart fruit blends with cypress and cardamom to temper its citrus sparkle, and as the scent develops, it relaxes into a delicious warmth driven by clove, nutmeg, and hazelnut. Woody notes of herbal eucalyptus, grassy vetiver, and Montezuma cypress ground the scent in its natural habitat and source of inspiration, El Árbol del Tule, an ancient cypress tree in Oaxaca.

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• Key notes: grapefruit, cypress, cardamom, nutmeg, clove, hazelnut, eucalyptus, vetiver
• Sizes: 1.7 oz

Best Creamy Woody: Boy Smells Woodphoria Eau de Parfum

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Boy Smells

Woodphoria Eau de Parfum

$78

Amazon

$78

Sephora

$78

Shop

Why we love it: To me, Boy Smells’ Woodphoria smells like camping—not the kind you do in a forest in the middle of nowhere, but glamping, where you’re sleeping in a tent but the bed is made with 500-thread-count sheets, and you can do your skin-care routine. It’s a lush blend of sandalwood softened by creamy fig and coconut, plus a tinge of jasmine for that luscious, luxurious glam factor.

More to know

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• Key notes: coconut water, fig, jasmine, sandalwood
• Sizes: 0.34 oz, 1.7 oz

Best Smoky Woody: LAFCO Fireside Light Eau de Parfum

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LAFCO

Fireside Light Eau de Parfum

$98

Lafco

Why we love it: When luxury home fragrance house LAFCO expanded into personal fragrance, this smoky, woodsy scent became one of the standouts. As you may glean from its name, it smells like a glowing, welcoming fire. The fragrance was inspired by the brand’s Feu de Bois scent, which is luxe and leathery and oh-so-sophisticated. Fireside Glow features notes of cognac, vetiver, patchouli, birch, leather, and vanilla to replicate the warmth you find near the fire.

More to know

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• Key notes: cognac, vetiver, birch, leather, vanilla
• Sizes: 0.34 oz, 1.7 oz

Best Soft Woody: Bulgari Omnia Amethyste Eau De Parfum

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Bulgari

Omnia Amethyste Eau De Parfum

$150

Bulgari

$180

Macy’s

Why we love it: Not all woody scents are intense and bold; Bulgari’s Omnia Amethyste is a much quieter, silky-smooth take on the genre, blending delicate, powdery iris and rose atop a whispering woody base of vanilla, ambrette, and the rich, compelling resin labdanum. This is a lovely woody “starter scent”—it’s complex and unique, but easy to wear everywhere, even at the office.

More to know

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• Key notes: iris, rose, ambrette, labdanum, vanilla bourbon
• Sizes: 3.4 oz

Frequently asked questions

What are the different types of woody notes?

Woods can be creamy, dry, smoky, warm, polished, or almost damp and earthy, so there’s an incredible amount you can do with them,” Saint-Ford shares. “They also have this quiet confidence; they don’t necessarily need sweetness or huge projection to have presence.” If you’re curious about the genre, Saint-Ford recommends starting with sandalwood scents. “It has this beautiful creamy, almost velvety quality, so it doesn’t immediately read as a traditional heavy woody fragrance,” the perfumer explains. “It works beautifully with vanilla, florals, musks, and even fruits, which makes it a really easy doorway into the woody family.”

Do woody scents last longer?

Woody fragrances do have a more robust longevity than some other fragrances, namely lighter scents like citrus. This is due to their “heavier, less volatile molecules,” explains Saint-Ford; these molecules evaporate more slowly than citrus. This is also why woods are often used at the base of a fragrance, he says. “They anchor everything and can remain on the skin long after the top notes disappear.”

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.

More addictive scents, right this way:

• 13 Best Long-Lasting Perfumes That Stay With You All Day
• Skin Scents Are for When You Want to Smell Like You, Only Better
• 8 Best Floral Perfumes That Are Actually Groundbreaking

Collage: Jemeria Davison; Source images: Courtesy of brandsSave StorySave this storySave StorySave this story

[LAST UPDATED AT 12:22 P.M. ET ON THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 24, 2026] Sorry for the jump scare, but we’ve officially entered holidays-are-coming territory. The silver lining? The best early Amazon Prime Day K-beauty deals are already rolling in ahead of the retailer’s final major shopping event of the year, giving you a head start on treating yourself (or someone you love) to glass-skin goals for less. CosRx, Medicube, Anua, and more are already on sale, making this a very good time to restock the products you’ve scraped to the bottom—or finally try the ones that have been lingering in your cart.

And there’s plenty more than Korean skin care to click through. We spotted high-tech beauty tools, juicy lip tints, and hair-care treatments as we scrolled, proving that K-beauty innovation has you covered from head to toe. We’ll keep adding deals as more prices drop, but if past Prime Days have taught us anything, it’s that the really good stuff has a habit of disappearing fast. Ahead, shop the early K-beauty deals actually worth hitting “Add to Cart” on.

Best Early Amazon Prime Day K-Beauty Deals

Give Glow a BoostMedicube Booster Pro x2Jump to review$249

Amazon

Easy, Breezy SPFMa:nyo Air Light Moisturizing Sunscreen Cream SPF 50Jump to review$18 $14 (22% off)

Amazon

All a BlurFwee Lip&Cheek Blurry Pudding PotJump to review$20

Amazon

Head FirstMedicube Rosemary PDRN Hair Care SetJump to review$65 $52 (20% off)

Amazon

Root AwakeningDr. Groot Scalp Revitalizing Solution SetJump to review$125 $106 (15% off)

Amazon

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• Best Korean Skin-Care Deals
• Best Korean Makeup Deals
• Best Korean Hair-Care Deals

Best Early Amazon Prime Day Korean Skin-Care Deals

Medicube Booster Pro X2Save to wishlistSave to wishlist

Medicube

Booster Pro x2

$249

Amazon

Allure senior commerce director Shanna Shipin using the Medicube Booster Pro X2

Shanna Shipin

We already considered Medicube’s Age-R Booster Pro one of the most versatile skin-care devices, but the new Booster Pro X2 ups the ante. It has stronger output, dual-electrode technology, and seven treatment modes, including a new Dual Mode that lets you pair treatments in one session—say, Booster Mode for better product absorption and radiance with microcurrent-powered MC Mode for smoothing. There’s also a Sheet Mask Boost Mode (that works with any fabric sheet mask you already own!) and is designed to help its hydrating essence penetrate more effectively. Not surprisingly, senior commerce director Shanna Shipin says she’s “been reaching for this streamlined, but seriously powerful tool more than any facial device” she owns.

Ma:nyo Air Light Moisturizing Sunscreen Cream SPF 50

Allure commerce editor Sarah Han applying the Ma:nyo Air Light Moisturizing Sunscreen Cream SPF 50

Sarah HanSave to wishlistSave to wishlist

Ma:nyo

Air Light Moisturizing Sunscreen Cream SPF 50

$18 $14 (22% off)

Amazon

“Korean sunscreens are so good that it's honestly hard for one to stand out from the rest,” says commerce editor Sarah Han. Ma:nyo’s Air Light Moisturizing Sunscreen Cream SPF 50 manages to do just that, with a formula that “has a serum-y texture that I love in my sunscreens—melting into my skin super quickly,” she says. That barely there feel comes in part from ensulizole, an FDA-approved, water-soluble UV filter that works especially well in lightweight formulas and makes them feel less greasy. Meanwhile, nano-hyaluronic acid and hydrolyzed hyaluronic acid draw in and hold onto moisture, leaving skin feeling plump and supple without weighing it down.

Round Lab 1025 Dokdo TonerSave to wishlistSave to wishlist

Round Lab

1025 Dokdo Toner

$34 $27 (21% off)

Amazon

Allure managing editor Alessandra Foresto applying the Round Lab 1025 Dokdo Toner

Alessandra Foresto

Round Lab’s 1025 Dokdo Toner may have the weightless look and feel of water, but this viral favorite packs plenty of skin-care perks into every swipe. The “Dokdo” in its name nods to the mineral-rich deep-sea water sourced near Ulleungdo Island, drawn from thousands of feet below the surface and naturally filtered before making its way into the formula. Rich in minerals like magnesium and calcium, the water helps hydrate and balance skin, while panthenol, allantoin, and betaine soothe and support the moisture barrier. “It impressively didn't sting or make my flaky eczema patches red, instead soothing them,” says managing editor Alessandra Foresto.

Anua Collagen Retinol Refining Gua Sha Cream

Allure contributing commerce writer Christa Joanna Lee applying the Anua Collagen Retinol Refining Gua Sha Cream

Christa Joanna LeeSave to wishlistSave to wishlist

Anua

Collagen Retinol Refining Gua Sha Cream

$35 $28 (20% off)

Amazon

Part face cream, part sculpting tool, Anua’s Collagen Retinol Refining Gua Sha Cream turns using a Korean retinol into a mini at-home facial. Retinol tackles fine lines and uneven texture, while a cushiony blend of squalane, cholesterol, panthenol, macadamia seed oil, and hydrolyzed collagen helps keep skin moisturized; meanwhile, niacinamide lends a brightening boost. Then, there’s the application: “I love that it multitasks with the built-in gua sha,” says contributing commerce writer Christa Joanna Lee. “There’s a slight learning curve when it comes to squeezing out the right amount—too little and the applicator drags, too much and you’ll be massaging forever—but once I got the hang of it, it felt genuinely relaxing and helped take down puffiness as I massaged.”

Banila Co Clean It Zero Original Cleansing BalmSave to wishlistSave to wishlist

Banila Co

Clean It Zero Original Cleansing Balm

$21 $16 (24% off)

Amazon

Lee applying the Banila Co Clean It Zero Original Cleansing Balm

Christa Joanna Lee

Dermatologists, K-beauty experts, and Allure editors have long kept Banila Co’s Clean It Zero Cleansing Balm in steady rotation. The sherbet-like balm melts into a silky oil that dissolves makeup, sunscreen, and the day’s buildup, while olive and jojoba oils and antioxidant-rich acerola, cranberry, and pomegranate extracts leave skin feeling soft and refreshed. “I use this for my evening cleanse when I want to remove all the dirt, makeup, and oil that accumulated throughout the day,” Claire Chang, MD, a board-certified dermatologist at UnionDerm in New York City, previously told Allure. She also praised its soft, milky texture and how smooth and hydrated her skin feels afterward. Better yet, one tub lasts: “Just a little scoop goes a long way!” says Soko Glam cofounder Charlotte Cho.

Dr.Althea 345 Relief Trio

Allure former senior commerce editor Sarah Felbin applying the Dr. Althea 345 Relief Cream

Sarah FelbinSave to wishlistSave to wishlist

Dr. Althea

345 Relief Trio

$69 $45 (35% off)

Amazon

Cold-weather season is quickly descending on us, and dry, easily irritated skin could use a little extra backup—luckily, Dr.Althea’s 365 Relief Trio covers all the bases. The lightweight serum supports skin’s natural balance, followed by the cream, which pairs niacinamide with ceramides to soothe redness, reinforce the moisture barrier, and lock in hydration. The cream mist makes it easy to sneak in another layer of hydration without having to rub anything in—just spritz and go whenever skin starts feeling tight or parched.

CosRx Advanced Snail 96 Mucin Power EssenceSave to wishlistSave to wishlist

Cosrx

Advanced Snail 96 Mucin Power Essence

$25 $18 (28% off)

Amazon

Han applying the CosRx Advanced Snail 96 Mucin Power Essence

Sarah Han

Snail mucin might sound sticky, but CosRx’s Advanced Snail 96 Mucin Power Essence is anything but. “The texture is so fun (and surprisingly not tacky seconds after applying),” says Han. The viral K-beauty staple contains 96% snail secretion filtrate, a humectant-rich ingredient that helps calm irritation, fade post-acne marks, and support skin repair. Hyaluronic acid and allantoin add hydration and help reinforce the skin barrier. The result? “It gives my skin lots of glow and bounce,” Han says.

Medicube PDRN Pink Collagen Capsule Cream

Lee applying the Medicube PDRN Pink Collagen Capsule Cream

Christa Joanna LeeSave to wishlistSave to wishlist

Medicube

PDRN Pink Collagen Capsule Cream

$22 $20 (9% off)

Amazon

When it comes to Medicube’s PDRN Pink Collagen Capsule Cream, “the texture is the main event,” says Lee. Suspended in a bouncy gel, the tiny pink capsules resemble popping boba—firm at first, then melting seamlessly into skin as you rub them in. Inside is PDRN, or polydeoxyribonucleotide, which “refers to DNA fragments that are most commonly derived from salmon sperm DNA,” Jane Yoo, MD, a dual board-certified dermatologist and Mohs surgeon based in New York City, previously told Allure. The ingredient first gained buzz through injectable skin treatments popular in Korea, though research on the benefits of topical PDRN is still limited. Here, it’s paired with more tried-and-true ingredients, including collagen for firmer-looking skin, hyaluronic acid for hydration, and niacinamide to help brighten uneven tone.

Mediheal Collagen Ampoule PadsSave to wishlistSave to wishlist

Mediheal

Collagen Ampoule Pads

$24 $20 (17% off)

Amazon

Allure editor in chief Jessica Cruel applying the Mediheal Daily Collagen Ampoule Toner Pads

Jessica Cruel

Ampoule, toner, mask—Mediheal’s Daily Collagen Ampoule Toner Pads do a little of everything, making them a shortcut for nights when you want your routine to end after cleansing. Each essence-soaked pad combines hydrating glycerin and betaine with collagen extract, peptides, allantoin, and ceramides to leave skin plumper, smoother, and soothed. Swipe one on like a toner or leave a few draped over your cheeks as mini masks for an extra hit of hydration. “The size also allows you to mix and match different actives at one time,” says editor in chief Jessica Cruel. “You could get moisture on the cheeks with the blemish-fighting Mediheal Madecassoside Blemish Pads on your forehead.”

Best Amazon Prime Day Korean Makeup Deals

Fwee Lip&Cheek Blurry Pudding PotSave to wishlistSave to wishlist

Fwee

Lip&Cheek Blurry Pudding Pot

$20

Amazon

Han applying the Fwee Lip&Cheek Blurry Pudding Pot

Sarah Han

Leave it to K-beauty to one-up the sensorial texture game—and the proof is in the Fwee’s Lip & Cheek Blurry Pudding Pot, which has a squishy, pudding-like formula that melts into lips and cheeks with a soft-focus, velvety finish. Dab it on for a sheer flush or layer it up for more impact; either way, this tiny pot earns its sweet spot in your makeup bag.

Save to wishlistSave to wishlist

Rom&nd

Lasting Color Gloss

$14 $10 (29% off)

Amazon

K-beauty doesn’t reserve glassiness for skin. Rom&nd’s Lasting Color Gloss brings that same high-shine effect to lips, with a plush, non-sticky formula and conditioning jojoba oil to help keep them soft and smooth. Buildable pigment takes the finish from a sheer wash to a juicy, candy-coated pop of color.

Save to wishlistSave to wishlist

Touch in Sol

No Poreblem Primer Duo

$31 $19 (39% off)

Amazon

Large pores? No poreblem. Touch in Sol gives you two ways to prep: The No Poreblem Primer has a lightweight, velvety texture that blurs the look of pores and uneven texture while helping makeup grip, with green tea extract and soluble collagen in the mix. For redness-prone skin, the green-tinted No Poreblem Base color-corrects flushed tones while smoothing pores, with Centella asiatica, hyaluronic acid, and pumpkin seed oil to help soothe and moisturize.

Best Korean Hair-Care Deals

Medicube Rosemary PDRN Hair Care Set

Lee after using the Medicube Rosemary PDRN Shampoo

Christa Joanna LeeSave to wishlistSave to wishlist

Medicube

Rosemary PDRN Hair Care Set

$65 $52 (20% off)

Amazon

If your hair is already on the dry side, winter weather is about to zap whatever moisture it has left. Medicube’s Rosemary PDRN Shampoo and Conditioner pair plant-derived PDRN with glycerin, panthenol, and multiple forms of hyaluronic acid to help keep hair hydrated, while salicylic acid clears away scalp buildup. “The shampoo leaves my hair clean yet not stripped, and the conditioner makes detangling my long hair effortless with zero greasiness,” says Lee. The set also includes the corresponding scalp serum, designed to balance the scalp, to use when you’re out of the shower.

Dr. Groot Scalp Revitalizing Solution SetSave to wishlistSave to wishlist

Dr. Groot

Scalp Revitalizing Solution Set

$125 $106 (15% off)

Amazon

Allure features director Dianna Singh after using the Dr. Groot Hair Thickening Shampoo and Conditioner

Dianna Singh

Listen up, anyone with fine, fragile hair prone to shedding or breakage: Dr. Groot’s four-piece Thickening Set takes a scalp-first approach with a shampoo, conditioner, thickening serum, and scalp treatment designed to create a healthier environment that supports fuller-looking hair. Biotin helps strengthen strands, caffeine supports the scalp, and probiotic-derived ferments help maintain its barrier, while K-beauty staples like Centella asiatica, ginseng, ginger, and mugwort help soothe and rebalance.

Save to wishlistSave to wishlist

Aromatica

Rosemary Scalp Scaling Shampoo

$50

Amazon

Aromatica is big on plant-powered formulas that feel as good as they smell, and its Rosemary Scalp Scaling Shampoo turns wash day into a mini scalp reset, complete with an invigorating rosemary scent and rich, luxe lather. Salicylic acid helps clear away dead skin, excess oil, and buildup, while ginger and coriander extracts leave your scalp feeling extra fresh. And since it comes in a two-pack, consider Prime Day your excuse to stock up—because running out of shampoo mid-shower is a problem no one needs.

Save to wishlistSave to wishlist

Cosrx

Peptide 132 Ulta Perfect Hair Bonding Treatment

$23 $13 (43% off)

Amazon

You’re probably already familiar with CosRx’s glow-boosting skin care (including the aforementioned essence), but don’t sleep on its hair products, either. The Peptide 132 Ultra Perfect Hair Bonding Treatment is made for dry, damaged strands, using the brand’s proprietary Peptide-132 alongside proteins and conditioning ingredients to help reinforce weakened hair and leave it feeling smoother, softer, and less prone to breakage. Think of it as a little damage-control session for hair that’s seen one too many hot tools, bleach appointments, or both.

Frequently Asked Questions

How we find the best K-beauty Amazon Prime Day deals

Our shopping team searches daily for the best beauty products in the industry. We enlist the help of multiple editors, writers, contributors, and experts to determine which products are really worth your penny. Our sales stories are no different: We base our discounted selections on products with over 4.0 ratings, past Allure Best of Beauty award winners, and those that our editors and experts have tried and given a stamp of approval.

Why trust Allure?

No matter what you seek or your individual needs and concerns, we want 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.

Collage: Jemeria Davison; Source images: Courtesy of brands and editorsSave StorySave this storySave StorySave this story

With so many K-beauty fans on the Allure staff (with me arguably being the biggest, hi!), it’s hardly a surprise that more than a handful of Korean skin-care, makeup, and hair-care products have earned our most prestigious stamp of approval: a 2026 Best of Beauty Award. The pros are plentiful: affordable prices (everything on this list is under $40), effective and time-tested ingredients (ceramides, Centella asiatica or cica, rice water, green tea, you name it), skin care-conscious makeup, and scalp-focused hair care (because your scalp is also skin!).

However, the K-beauty industry has been expanding lightning fast, so much so that it’s been hard—even for me, who considers it part of my job—to keep up with all the new launches and product innovations. That’s where the full Allure team comes in: This list of 11 Best of Beauty Award winners—our most stacked K-beauty cohort to date—is the perfect jumping-off point for anyone who wants to dip their toes into the Korean beauty scene and chase (and actually get) glowy, dewy skin.

Our Top K-Beauty Best of Beauty Winners

• The Essence of it: Aestura Atobarrier365 Essence, $33
• I’ll Take Two: Illiyoon Ceramide Ato Lotion, $25
• And That’s the Tea: Centellian24 Madeca Matcha Toning Peeling Gel, $28
• Now That’s Growth: Dr. Groot Scalp Revitalizing Solution Thickening Shampoo & Conditioner, $66
• Lips Are Sealed: Dear Dahlia Lip Paradise Sensual Lip Glow, $34
• Erase the Day: Beauty of Joseon Ginseng Cleansing Oil, $20

Frequently Asked QuestionsAccordionItemContainerButtonLargeChevron

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

In the coming years, I have no doubt the list of K-beauty Best of Beauty Award winners will only keep growing. For now, keep reading to discover which formulas made the cut for 2026.

Best Toner/Essence for Sensitive Skin: Aestura Atobarrier365 Essence

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Aestura

Atobarrier365 Hydro Essence

$33

Amazon

$33

Sephora

$33

YesStyle

Allure commerce editor Sarah Han applying Aestura Atobarrier365 Essence

Sarah Han

Why it’s worth it: Aestura has quickly become one of our favorite K-beauty skin-care brands—this is its third Best of Beauty win, after all—especially for those with dry and sensitive skin. More of a milky toner than a traditional, liquid-y essence, this formula uses ceramides, fatty acids, and cholesterols (all lipids naturally found in the skin barrier) to make quick work of dryness. Also at play are the brand’s proprietary Barrier Moisturizing Factors, which—as you might be able to guess—support a stronger barrier and help prevent moisture from escaping (a.k.a. transepidermal water loss or TEWL, for short). Trust us when we say your skin will slurp this up with just a few gentle pats. Bonus points: Top it off with its Best of Beauty-winning Atobarrier365 Cream to lock in all that moisturizing goodness, and then keep a bottle of the Atobarrier365 Cream Mist handy for midday refreshes.

Tester feedback from commerce editor Sarah Han

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“K-beauty is known for its gentle formulas, but if I could only recommend one brand for sensitive skin, it'd be Aestura, hands down. I've heard many coworkers and derms rave about the brand, and I'm no different! It's filled with all of the good barrier-supporting stuff: ceramides, fatty acids, squalane, glycerin, you name it. Even though I don't have particularly sensitive skin, I can attest that it makes any dryness—especially after my nighttime double-cleanse—instantly go poof! It's lightweight enough to use in the daytime, too, and the milky texture is so satisfying. Even though it's not a typical watery essence, it sinks in immediately and makes my complexion look plumper and more alive. I never want to be without it!” —Sarah Han, commerce editor

More to know

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• Key ingredients: Barrier Moisturizing Factors (includes amino acids, PCA, glycerin, etc.), triple lipid complex (ceramides, fatty acids, and cholesterol), squalane, glycerin, vitamin E
• Fragrance-free: yes
• Who it’s for: anyone with dry, normal, and combo skin, or anyone who experiences seasonal dryness

Best Body Lotion for Sensitive Skin: Illiyoon Ceramide Ato Lotion

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Illiyoon

Ceramide Ato Lotion

$25 $20 (20% off)

Amazon

$27

YesStyle

Allure senior commerce director Shanna Shipin applying Illiyoon Ceramide Ato Lotion

Shanna Shipin

Why it’s worth it: Like Aestura, Illiyoon is another sensitive skin–friendly brand under the umbrella of Amorepacific—one of the biggest K-beauty companies, period. And when we say sensitive skin–friendly, we mean it’s safe for the whole family to use. Case in point: Our tester, who, along with her two daughters, is prone to eczema and relies on this fragrance-free formula to deliver long-lasting moisture, calm bouts of irritation, and prevent future spells of said bouts for both herself and her kids. Besides the brand’s proprietary Ceramide Skin Complex, which features encapsulated ceramides (that immediately burst and melt into your skin upon contact), glycerin and shea butter also help attract and lock in moisture. Speaking of family, this lotion absorbs very quickly, so your little ones won’t have any uncomfortable sticky residue to complain about.

The generously sized bottle is enough to last months on end, but if you need to take it on the road, Illiyoon also sells the Ceramide Ato Lotion in a carry-on-friendly 2.29-ounce tube for all of your travel needs.

Tester feedback from senior commerce director Shanna Shipin

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“This is my mainstay lotion—I have 3 in the house at any given time (one for my room, one for my girls’ room, one for the bathroom). It’s all very necessary, and you’ll understand once you start to use this lotion. Illyoon managed to make a lotion that’s airy and lightweight, but it has substance. It immediately seeps into the skin right after a shower, or quells angry, itchy flare-ups at the end of your day, leaving no hint of greasy residue. You know that feeling of sticky, oily lotion transferring onto your bedsheets or pants? The worst! But there’s none of that here. It’s why both of my kids (who have eczema, like me) prefer this lotion over anything else. It’s also the little things about this lotion: It’s fragrance-free, the pump-top is a big round circle (like a target you can’t miss), and one extra-special feature is that you can get every last drop. The formula is encased in an internal silicone bag—no pump-top dip ‘n scooping here!” —Shanna Shipin, senior commerce director

More to know

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• Key ingredients: Ceramide Skin Complex, glycerin, shea butter, panax ginseng root water
• Fragrance-free: yes
• Who it’s for: anyone with dry, sensitive, or eczema-prone skin

Best Weekly Peel: Centellian24 Madeca Matcha Toning Peeling Gel

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Centellian 24

Madeca Matcha Toning Peeling Gel

$28

Amazon

$28

Ulta Beauty

$23

YesStyle

Allure contributing commerce writer Christa Joanna Lee applying the Centellian24 Madeca Matcha Toning Peeling Gel

Christa Joanna Lee

Why it’s worth it: If “satisfying skin care” were a dictionary entry, you’d find Centellian24’s Madeca Matcha Toning Peeling Gel listed there. After you’ve thoroughly cleansed your skin and patted it dry, you take a squeeze-full of this chemical peel and rub it all over your face. Instantly, you’ll feel and see little balls form all over your face—but what’s really at work? Cellulose is the physical exfoliant that sweeps away surface dead skin cells and results in those balls, while a complex of alpha hydroxy, beta hydroxy, and polyhydroxy acids helps further refine texture. Once you rinse it off, you’re left to revel in your baby-soft skin.

Don’t be intimidated by all these mentions of acids, because this gel is as gentle as they come. On par with the matcha theme, this formula includes soothing green tea and barrier-supporting ceramide NP to keep dry and sensitive skin happy. But, in the same vein, don’t expect the same intensity of results as, say, our Best of Beauty winner for best monthly peel, the Shani Darden Skin Care Triple Acid Signature Peel. Because it’s a lot gentler, Centellian24 can be used weekly (or even twice a week) to tackle surface-level gunk.

Tester feedback from contributing commerce writer Christa Joanna Lee

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“I'm kind of addicted to Centellian 24's Madeca Matcha Peeling Gel—and not just because it leaves my skin ridiculously soft. There's something so satisfying about watching all those little rolls of dead skin and buildup appear, kind of like the same guilty pleasure as inspecting a pore strip after you peel it off. Even when my skin doesn't feel particularly dry or flaky, this stuff always seems to find something to exfoliate. As someone with sensitive skin, I've never experienced any irritation, redness, or tightness after using it, which is more than I can say for a lot of exfoliators. Bonus tip: It's fantastic on rough patches like heels and elbows. The only downside is that it can get a little messy when you're using it on your body, so I recommend applying it to dry skin before you turn on the shower.” —Christa Joanna Lee, contributing commerce writer

More to know

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• Key ingredients: glycolic, lactic, and capryloyl salicylic acids, charcoal powder, matcha extract, Centella asiatica
• Fragrance-free: no
• Who it’s for: people with sensitive skin who want a gentle exfoliator

Best Shampoo & Conditioner for Fine Hair: Dr. Groot Scalp Revitalizing Solution Thickening Shampoo & Conditioner

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Dr. Groot

Scalp Revitalizing Solution Hair Thickening Shampoo and Conditioner

$66 $62 (6% off)

Amazon (Shampoo + Conditioner)

$33

Sephora (Shampoo)

$33

Sephora (Conditioner)

Why it’s worth it: Dr. Groot has taken over our social media feeds over the past year, and the hype is real. Korean hair care places utmost emphasis on scalp care, and the Scalp Revitalizing Solution Thickening Shampoo & Conditioner are prime examples. They rely on soothing botanical extracts such as ginseng, rosemary, and cica to calm dryness and irritation, paving the way for a healthier scalp environment—and, so the thinking goes, hair that eventually looks and feels thicker. Also contributing to a balanced scalp is caffeine, which stimulates the scalp skin and, with continuous use, potentially encourages growth. Best of all: This duo is gentle enough to use regularly on even the finest of hair, because it won’t weigh down your strands with film-formers found in other thickening shampoos and conditioners.

Han before applying Dr. Groot Scalp Revitalizing Solution Thickening Shampoo & Conditioner

Sarah Han

Han after applying Dr. Groot Scalp Revitalizing Solution Thickening Shampoo & Conditioner

Sarah Han

Allure commerce market editor Sarah Hoffmann before using the Dr. Groot Scalp Revitalizing Solution Thickening Shampoo & Conditioner

Sarah Hoffmann

Hoffmann after using the Dr. Groot Scalp Revitalizing Solution Thickening Shampoo & Conditioner

Sarah Hoffmann

Tester feedback from Han

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“Dr. Groot's shampoo is the invigorating, refreshing, and most importantly, thickening boost my fine but dense (a recipe for limpness) hair needs. I've been using it on and off for a year (the life of a beauty tester!), and whenever I go back to it, I swear I'm able to go an extra day before my scalp starts crying for help. And after each rinse and blow-dry with this duo, my scalp feels incredibly light—almost as if I went to a professional stylist. (I wish!) I also have a lot of sparse areas around my hairline from years of tight ponytails, so I try to keep up with using Dr. Groot's scalp-specific leave-in products—because a shampoo can only do so much by itself!” —Sarah Han, commerce editor

Tester feedback from commerce market editor Sarah Hoffmann

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“I'm blessed with a pretty unproblematic scalp, but I've always had an issue with frizz, dryness, shine—pretty much every other hair complaint in the book. I used to just accept that silkiness wasn't in the cards for me, but this Dr. Groot duo made me eat my words. Even without blow-drying, my air-dried curls just behave differently when I use this shampoo and conditioner. Paired with a quick pass of my Dyson (and no post-shower products, mind you), I'm living out my flippy, shiny blowout dreams.” —Sarah Hoffmann, commerce market editor

More to know:

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• Key ingredients: Bifida and Lactobacillus ferments, caffeine, biotin, niacinamide, salicylic acid, ginseng, rosemary, heartleaf, green tea, Centella asiatica
• Fragrance-free: no
• Who it’s for: anyone with fine or dry hair, and/or an irritated scalp

Best Cream Lipstick: Dear Dahlia Lip Paradise Sensual Lip Glow

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Dear Dahlia

Lip Paradise Sensual Lip Glow

$34 $27 (21% off)

Amazon

$36

Nordstrom

Why it’s worth it: It only makes sense that even Korean makeup keeps skin care top of mind. Infused with sunflower seed oil, castor seed oil, jojoba seed oil, squalane, and shea butter, Dear Dahlia’s Lip Paradise Sensual Lip Glow feels like, well, butter gliding onto your lips. And while it goes on sheer, it’s still buildable and ramps up to gorgeously pigmented reds, pinks, berries, and corals for the bolder lip lovers among us. (Hello, me!) High-sheen lips without the stickiness that usually accompanies lip glosses? Sounds like a winner to us.

Lee before applying Dear Dahlia Lip Paradise Sensual Lip Glow

Christa Joanna Lee

Lee after applying Dear Dahlia Lip Paradise Sensual Lip Glow

Christa Joanna Lee

Tester feedback from Lee

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“I’m admittedly not much of a lip girl—I usually save lipstick for special occasions, mostly because I hate the feeling of color pilling or catching on dry patches. (Note to self: Invest in a better lip exfoliator.) But I was pleasantly surprised by Dear Dahlia’s Lip Paradise Sensual Lip Glow. It looks like a classic lipstick in the bullet, but it feels much more like a balm, gliding on smoothly with a sheer wash of color. You barely need a mirror—or a steady hand, if, like me, you’ve never quite mastered tracing the peaks of your Cupid’s bow. Best of all, it feels incredibly lightweight and moisturizing on my lips, without that heavy, coated feeling that usually makes me want to skip lip color all together.” —Christa Joanna Lee, contributing commerce writer

More to know:

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• Key ingredients: sunflower seed oil, castor seed oil, jojoba seed oil, squalane, and shea butter
• Fragrance-free: yes
• Who it’s for: anyone who likes sheer but buildable lip color

Best Cream Blush: Fwee Lip&Cheek Blurry Pudding Pot

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Fwee

Blurry Pudding Pot

$20

Amazon

$20

Ulta Beauty

Why it’s worth it: 35 shades. That’s how many options Fwee Lip&Cheek Blurry Pudding Pot has, across nudes, corals, pinks, reds, mauves, and roses. Impressed yet? Don’t be fooled by the small pot, either: These formulas are pigmented, so a teensy bit of product goes a long way. We also love the addictive, pudding-like texture that makes application all the more fun—a touch of novelty goes a long way!

It goes on like a cream blush but settles into a long-lasting, natural-finish powder, so you get the best of both worlds. (If you prefer a dewy finish, we’re also really into the Lip&Cheek Glowy Lip Pots—however, they don’t last as long as the Blurry pots.) While you can absolutely use your fingers to apply, Fwee offers a silicone lip brush that’s supposed to mimic your fingertips if you prefer that route. Tap and blur away!

Han before applying Fwee Lip&Cheek Blurry Pudding Pot

Sarah Han

Han after applying Fwee Lip&Cheek Blurry Pudding Pot

Sarah Han

Tester feedback from Han

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“Fwee is one of those brands that makes makeup fun. The Lip&Cheek Blurry Pudding Pot has this bouncy pudding-like texture that is pretty addictive. I use my fingers to apply the color straight from the pot to my face. These babies are quite pigmented, so a little goes a long way. I start with a very small amount and add layers, tapping in the color with my fingers, until I get my desired result. The soft-focus finish falls neatly between that of a cream and powder blush—it's quite unique amongst my huge blush collection. And the shade range is so expansive I'm convinced everyone can find a shade they'll love.” —Sarah Han, commerce editor

More to know

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• Key ingredients: cocoa seed butter, agave tequilana leaf extract
• Fragrance-free: yes
• Who it’s for: anyone who loves a pigmented blush

Best Face Moisturizer for Sensitive Skin: Iunik Beta Glucan 3X Barrier Cream

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IUNIK

Beta-Glucan 3X Barrier Cream

$22

Amazon

$23

Nordstrom

Allure commerce editor Madison San Miguel applying Iunik Beta Glucan 3X Barrier Cream

Madison San Miguel

Why it’s worth it: Beta-glucan is one of those unsung heroes in skin care: This humectant might not be the flashiest ingredient, but it does the work of attracting and holding moisture, repairing your barrier, and soothing irritation quietly and effectively. Also hard at work are ectoin and panthenol, which are rockstars for reducing inflammation, smoothing texture, and, similarly to beta-glucan, forming a protective seal over your skin to keep moisture in and external stressors out. This formula feels refreshing and silky, but may be a bit too heavy for oily skin—however, come winter, it could be the perfect richer moisturizer.

Tester feedback from commerce editor Madison San Miguel

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“As someone with dry skin, I sometimes find that "fast-absorbing" products just sink into my skin without delivering any real benefits. This one, however, didn't skip on moisture and relief even long after it settled. It's rich without being too thick, and left my skin satisfied until the a.m.. ” —Madison San Miguel, commerce editor

More to know

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• Key ingredients: beta-glucan, ectoin, panthenol
• Fragrance-free: yes
• Who it’s for: anyone with dry, sensitive, or normal skin

Best Clean Toner/Essence: Innisfree Green Tea Ceramide Milk

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Innisfree

Green Tea Ceramide Milk

$24 $22 (8% off)

Amazon

$24

Sephora

Han applying Innisfree Green Tea Ceramide Milk

Sarah Han

Why it’s worth it: Milky toners aren’t going anywhere, and Innisfree’s makes a rock-solid case for adding one to your routine. Green tea, the key ingredient in the Green Tea Ceramide Milk, has been a staple in Asian skin care for centuries and is still widely used. Why? It’s packed with antioxidants to fend off environmental stressors such as pollutants that otherwise cause signs of aging, reduce puffiness (thank you, natural caffeine), and curb excess sebum. What’s more: Innisfree (or Amorepacific, its parent company) grows its own green tea on Jeju Island, which has especially nutrient-rich soil that produces high levels of antioxidants and amino acids, as per the brand. Skin, drink up!

Tester feedback from Han

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“Milky toners are just so scrumptious and this Innisfree one checks all of my boxes. In particular, it's because Innisfree is one of the best brands to do green tea—the brand grows its own on Jeju Island (somewhere I'm dying to go to, by the way)! Innisfree's green tea products have always been super reliable and soothing, and this one falls right under that umbrella as well. It helps minimize any redness I get occasionally around my nose, and in general, dry skin is no match for this—it instantly quenches my skin and provides lasting moisture throughout the day. Plus, nine types of HA? Incredible, give me all of them. I love spending a few extra seconds to gently pat this into my skin for maximum absorption.” —Sarah Han, commerce editor

More to know:

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• Key ingredients: green tea ceramides, green tea liposomes, 9 types of hyaluronic acid
• Fragrance-free: no
• Who it’s for: anyone with dry skin or who likes using toners/essences

Best Foam Cleanser: The Face Shop Rice Water Bright Foaming Cleanser

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The Face Shop

Rice Water Bright Foaming Cleanser

$12

Amazon

$12

StyleVana

Han applying and washing off The Face Shop Rice Water Bright Foaming Cleanser

Sarah Han

Why it’s worth it: We may wax poetic about vitamin C serums, but brightening your skin can start as early as your cleanser step, which is where The Face Shop’s Rice Water Bright Foaming Cleanser comes in. Rice water has been popular in both Korean and Japanese beauty rituals for centuries because of its laundry list of benefits. Rice, which is usually processed or chemically modified in modern skin-care formulas to allow for better absorption, “brightens skin, hydrates, strengthens the barrier, and provides antioxidant protection,” Connecticut-based board-certified dermatologist Mona Gohara, MD, tells us. “It [also] soothes irritation and helps reduce oxidative stress.”

Infused with a subtle floral scent (take note if you’re sensitive to fragrance!), this The Face Shop cleanser starts as a thick cream that emulsifies into a satisfying whipped foam—from start to finish, it’s a delightful experience, which is more than we can say for most cleansers. And, instead of drying cleansing agents, it uses soapwort extract as a gentle surfactant to sweep away all of the day’s grime, leaving your skin feeling unbelievably soft and comfortable.

Tester feedback from Han

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“This is one of those classic K-beauty cleansers I've known from the very start of my long K-beauty journey—I recently ‘rediscovered’ it and I'm wondering why I hadn't sooner. It's the perfect deep cleanse for my combination skin and leaves my skin looking more radiant and less congested, but most importantly, not super tight. The ingredients are super appealing to me too—natural rice water, rice bran oil, and soapwort extract (a surfactant). On days I don't wear makeup, I find that just this cleanser is enough. (And I normally always double-cleanse.) And it's $13 for a huge tube that'll probably last me six months? Yup, no notes.” —Sarah Han, commerce editor

More to know:

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• Key ingredients: rice water, rice bran oil, soapwort extract
• Who it’s best for: anyone with combination or oily skin, congested pores
• Fragrance-free: no

Best Liquid Facial Toner: Laneige Cream Skin Toner & Moisturizer

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Laneige

Cream Skin Cerapeptide Toner & Moisturizer

$36

Amazon

$36

Sephora

Lee applying Laneige Cream Skin Toner & Moisturizer

Christa Joanna Lee

Why it’s worth it: We love our Best of Beauty winners, but we love our two-time Best of Beauty winners. Take Laneige’s Cream Skin Toner & Moisturizer, which is so good it won in 2023 and again this year. It’s the definition of a product we always come back to, largely due to the instant boost of hydration the ceramide and peptide complex provides. Over time, this complex also supports a stronger, healthier barrier and firmer skin. It’s also packed with butylene glycol, hyaluronic acid, and glycerin—which are all reliable humectants that make it “a great option for those looking to optimize hydration,” says Carlos Vierira, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in Philadelphia (No wonder it also made our list of the best toners for mature skin.)

Bonus: Cream Skin comes in two formats: a bottle that you shake to dispense the product or a face mist for anytime-anywhere refreshes. Better yet, get both and keep one in your medicine cabinet while the other goes into your bag. All-day hydration, check.

Tester feedback from Lee

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“My dry, sensitive skin is currently dealing with a little more drama than usual: On top of the melasma that already makes my skin tone look uneven, I'm also dealing with some newfound patches of eczema from head to toe, so I’m being extra picky about what earns a spot in my routine. Luckily, Laneige Cream Skin Milky Toner is the epitome of gentle. Ceramides to help support my moisture barrier? Check. Peptides? Check. Glycerin, squalane, and hyaluronic acid for even more hydration? Check, check, check. It's also fragrance-free and has the National Eczema Association seal, which gives me a little extra peace of mind.

The directions say to gently pat the toner into skin, and I’ve learned to do this over the sink because despite its creamy, milky appearance, the formula is very thin and splashy. It will absolutely make a run for it between your fingers if you’re not fast. Once I get it onto my face, though, it absorbs almost instantly without leaving behind any stickiness or tackiness. My perpetually parched cheeks seem to drink it up on contact, and my skin immediately feels softer and calmer. I wouldn't say it replaces my go-to moisturizers, but on nights that I want to curtail my routine, I like using this multipurpose product that combines both toner and moisturizer in one. ” —Christa Joanna Lee, contributing commerce writer

More to know:

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• Key ingredients: butylene glycol, hyaluronic acid, glycerin, ceramide, peptides, white leaf tea
• Fragrance-free: yes
• Who it’s for: anyone with dry, sensitive, or mature skin

Best Oil Cleanser: Beauty of Joseon Ginseng Cleansing Oil

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Beauty of Joseon

Ginseng Cleansing Oil

$20

Amazon

$20

Sephora

$20

Shop

Why it’s worth it: If you’ve only been familiar with Beauty of Joseon for its sunscreens (the viral Korean original, or any of the US-specific reformulations), you’re missing out on so much goodness—and by that, we mean the Ginseng Cleansing Oil. No stranger to the brand’s lineup (hey, Ginseng Essence Water and Revive Serum), ginseng is a key ingredient in this formula, helping to brighten dull skin, boost circulation, and provide all the calming vibes. Yes, there is a distinct herbal scent, so take note if you’re sensitive to fragrance. Obligatory editor’s note: As with all wash-off skin care, temper your expectations when it comes to benefits!

As for the cleansing properties, there’s a hefty 50% concentration of soybean oil that provides a satisfying slip and dissolves makeup, sunscreen, and excess sebum on the spot. Take an extra beat (and a bit of water) to emulsify the formula before rinsing it off for a thorough cleanse. Follow up with a water-based cleanser to get rid of any remaining grime before following up with your toners, essences, serums, and moisturizers—whatever works for your skin, of course.

Tester feedback from Han

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“Korean cleansing oils are top-tier, and you’ll rarely catch me using any others! One of the formulas I regularly cycle through is this Beauty of Joseon one, which breaks down my long-wearing makeup so thoroughly—and without leaving my skin feeling dry and stripped. Even though there’s only so much a wash-off formula can do in the long term, ginseng is a fantastic ingredient that helps brighten overall skin tone, so I love pairing this cleansing oil with some of BoJ’s other ginseng-infused products, such as the Essence Water.” —Sarah Han, commerce editor

More to know:

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• Key ingredients: ginseng seed oil, soybean oil, olive fruit oil, tsubaki oil
• Fragrance-free: yes
• Who it’s for: anyone who wears makeup and/or sunscreen

Frequently Asked Questions

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 annual Best of Beauty Awards, we do all of the above throughout a very rigorous, year-round process starting in mid-October–a mere month after the current year's winners have been announced. We had over 5,500 products submitted for award consideration, which were then categorized and called in for official testing (we have at least three testers designated per category). Testers have three or so months to test every product from sun-up to sun-down, and beyond, and record their thoughts and ratings into a personalized spreadsheet. From there, we discuss, debate, and pore over every product before finalizing our winners list. For more details on our Best of Beauty process, read here.

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: Jemeria Davison; Source images: Courtesy of brandsSave StorySave this storySave StorySave this story

Aging is inevitable—and certainly not something that needs “fixing”—but the best face serums for aging skin can help soften the look of fine lines, fade dark spots, or restore some of the firmness and bounce your complexion has lost over time.

Their lightweight formulas can deliver concentrated actives that target multiple signs of aging in a single step. According to Mona Foad, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in Cincinnati, the payoff builds slowly but meaningfully. “With consistent use, many patients begin to notice improvements in hydration and skin texture within about two to four weeks,” she says. “More visible changes, such as smoother fine lines, improved firmness, and a more even tone, typically develop after 12 weeks as collagen production increases.” Ingredients like retinal, peptides, antioxidants, and deep hydrators (like hyaluronic acid) give aging skin the support it needs. Patience, consistency, and daily sunscreen do the rest.

Our Top Face Serums for Aging Skin

• Best Overall: SkinMedica TNS Advanced+ Serum, $295
• Best for Expression Lines: SkinCeuticals P-Tiox, $150
• Best for Sun Spots: L’Oréal Paris Revitalift Triple Power Melasyl Dark Spot Creamy Serum, $28
• Best for Dull Skin: Alastin Restorative Skin Complex with TriHex+, $258

Frequently Asked QuestionsAccordionItemContainerButtonLargeChevron

• What ingredients should I look for in a serum for mature skin?
• Are face serums safe for sensitive or thinning mature skin?
• How are face serums for aging skin different from face oils?
• Meet the experts
• How we test and review products
• Our staff and testers

Best Overall: SkinMedica TNS Advanced+ Serum

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SkinMedica

TNS Advanced+ Serum

$295

Amazon

$295

Dermstore

$295

Bluemercury

Why it's worth it: When we poll derms on what they actually use for skin laxity, SkinMedica’s TNS Advanced+ Serum almost always comes up. The Best of Beauty Hall of Fame serum’s hero ingredient—TNS, short for “tissue nutrient solution”—is a concentrated blend of growth factors (excellent for addressing sagging), as well as cytokines (signaling proteins), antioxidants, and matrix proteins to smooth texture and even tone. A trio of botanicals (French flaxseed, marine extract, and green microalgae) adds another line of defense by “supporting collagen production to slow down the skin’s aging process,” says Dr. Foad. And because we all know a formula’s texture matters when it comes to sticking with a routine, Heidi Prather, MD, a board-certified dermatologist in Austin, notes that “the formulation feels silky and smooth on the skin.”

Allure executive director Jenny Bailly after applying the SkinMedica TNS Advanced+ Serum

Jenny Bailly

Bailly after applying the SkinMedica TNS Advanced+ Serum

Jenny Bailly

Tester feedback from executive beauty director Jenny Bailly

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“I say it to any skin-care consumer who will listen: When I use SkinMedica TNS Advanced+ Serum regularly, I get not-infrequent compliments on my skin. When I run out—which I really try to avoid—they start to dry up. This stuff just makes my skin… better. My only beef with this OG serum had been the dual-chamber bottle. SkinMedica just launched totally new packaging for TNS Advanced+, and I've had zero dual-pumping issues with the cleaner, slimmer bottle.” —Jenny Bailly, executive beauty director

More to know

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• Key ingredients: human growth factor blend, peptide complex, French flaxseed
• Fragrance-free: yes

Best for Expression Lines: SkinCeuticals P-Tiox

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SkinCeuticals

P-Tiox

$150

SkinCeuticals

$150

Dermstore

$150

Bluemercury

Why it's worth it: If Botox came in a dropper instead of a syringe, wouldn’t you be curious? SkinCeuticals’ P-Tiox makes a compelling case. The serum leans on signal peptides, which are naturally found in skin and, as the name implies, “signal” cells to carry out functions; in this case, they soften expression lines (think glabella 11s, cheek folds, and forehead creases) while giving skin a plump, glass-skin finish. A hydrating complex also keeps mature skin looking fresh: “It contains sea kelp extract, which also delivers antioxidant protection to preserve collagen stores,” Rachel Westbay, MD, a board-certified dermatologist in New York City, previously told Allure. Over time, she says, “the synergy of these hydrators with the peptides can also lessen the appearance of prominent pores and improve overall skin quality and smoothness.” You’ll also find 5% polyhydroxy acid, 5% niacinamide, and 1% laminaria extract (a humectant derived from brown algae working together to brighten dullness and improve uneven tone and texture.

Allure editor in chief Jessica Cruel applying SkinCeuticals P-Tiox

Jessica Cruel

Cruel after applying SkinCeuticals P-Tiox

Jessica Cruel

Tester feedback from editor in chief Jessica Cruel

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“There is a combination of peptides, niacinamide, and PHA in this serum to help target a very specific sign of aging: expression lines. As someone who loves to laugh, I am particularly concerned about my nasolabial folds, a.k.a. smile lines. I use this serum so they don't get any worse. I have to say, I find my filler lasts a lot longer in that area. It is not a complete replacement for aesthetic treatments like filler or neurotoxin, but this serum can complement those in-office treatments as maintenance. I like to switch off between this and my retinol.” —Jessica Cruel, editor in chief

More to know

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• Key ingredients: sea kelp extract, 5% polyhydroxy acid, 5% niacinamide, 1% laminaria extract
• Fragrance-free: yes

Best for Sun Spots: L’Oréal Paris Revitalift Triple Power Melasyl Dark Spot Creamy Serum

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L’Oréal Paris

Revitalift Triple Power Melasyl Dark Spot Creamy Serum

$28

Amazon

$30

Ulta Beauty

Why it's worth it: Even the most devoted SPF users aren’t completely immune to the dark spots that tend to crop up with age. “Years of cumulative UV damage ultimately lead many people to develop hyperpigmentation,” says Dawn Queen, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in New York City. The L’Oréal Paris Revitalift Triple Power Melasyl Dark Spot Creamy Serum tackles discoloration alongside the dullness and fine lines that can tag along with it. The star is proprietary Melasyl, a proprietary molecule “that works differently from many traditional ingredients by intercepting excess melanin precursors before they develop into dark pigment,” says Dr. Queen. It’s joined by brightening vitamin C and niacinamide to even out tone, plus glycerin for a welcome hit of hydration. “The creamy texture also makes this a pleasant, more substantial serum for mature skin that may feel drier,” she says.

More to know

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• Key ingredients: Melasyl, vitamin, niacinamide
• Fragrance-free: no

Best Peptide Serum: Allies of Skin Multi Peptides & GF Advanced Lifting Serum

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Allies of Skin

Multi Peptides & GF Advanced Lifting Serum

$188

Amazon

$188

Nordstrom

$188

Shop

Why it's worth it: As collagen and elastin production naturally slows with age, skin can gradually lose some of its firmness, elasticity, and definition. Allies of Skin’s Multi Peptides & GF Advanced Lifting Serum gives that dwindling support system a boost with a 9% lifting peptide complex and 3% SH-oligopeptide-1 complex, a lab-engineered growth factor that acts as a messenger between skin cells to support collagen production and repair. “This non-comedogenic serum is designed for those who want to target wrinkles and a loss of skin volume,” Brendan Camp, MD, a double board-certified dermatologist based in New York, previously told Allure.

Copper lysinate/prolinate, a complex that combines copper with the amino acids lysine and proline, adds another layer of support for the collagen and elastin that help keep skin looking firm, while MSM, a sulfur-rich compound, maintains elasticity and suppleness. And all that gravity-defying action doesn’t come at the expense of your skin barrier: “It’s formulated to be suitable for sensitive skin and includes Centella asiatica, which soothes the skin and provides antioxidant benefits,” adds Dr. Queen.

Tester feedback from commerce editor Sarah Han

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“Ok, the serious and immediate glow I get from this ultra-silky Allies of Skin serum alone was enough to sell me on it. (My face is freshly rinsed with water in the video—no toners or essences applied beforehand.) But of course, the ingredients are what do the heavy lifting, and when I first read about this product, I knew it meant business.

While I'm only 33, I don't plan on getting injectables or Botox to stave off any fine/expression lines, so this is one of the many preventative topical measures I plan on using consistently to keep my skin looking as firm, lifted, and smooth as possible. This serum sinks into my skin immediately and provides a slight gripping effect that's perfect for makeup—an unexpected bonus, but I'll absolutely take it.” —Sarah Han, commerce editor

More to know

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• Key ingredients: 9% LiftingPeptide Complex, 3% sh-oligopeptide-1 growth factor complex (synthetic), MSM, copper lysinate, phospholipids, glycolipid, Centella asiatica
• Fragrance-free: yes

Best Antioxidant Serum: Avène Vitamin Activ Cg Serum

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Avène

Vitamin Activ Cg Serum

$48 $34 (29% off)

Amazon

$48

Dermstore

$48

Ulta Beauty

Why it's worth it: Retinol may be one of the most well-established ingredients for addressing signs of aging, and while it can definitely make skin look glowier and smoother over time, the results are usually gradual. If brightness is your main goal, vitamin C often delivers that healthy-looking radiance a little faster. Avène's Vitamin Activ Cg Radiance Serum offers the best of both worlds by pairing vitamin Cg—a stabilized form of vitamin C equivalent to 20% vitamin C—with bakuchiol, the plant-derived retinol alternative that smooths fine lines and improves firmness without the irritation that can sometimes accompany traditional retinoids. Niacinamide brightens discoloration and supports the skin barrier, while the brand’s signature Thermal Spring Water, glycerin, and sodium hyaluronate replenish moisture. “This is the type of formula I reach for when someone wants brightening but cannot tolerate a traditional vitamin C serum with L-ascorbic acid,” says Jane Yoo, MD, a dual board-certified dermatologist based in New York City. Though Avène has built its reputation on gentle formulas, this serum does contain added fragrance, so sensitive skin types may want to do a patch test first.

More to know

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• Key ingredients: vitamin Cg (ascorbyl glucoside), bakuchiol, niacinamide, Avène Thermal Spring Water, glycerin, sodium hyaluronate
• Fragrance-free: no

Best Hyaluronic Acid Serum: La Roche-Posay Hyalu B5 Serum

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La Roche-Posay

Hyalu B5 Serum

$40 $32 (20% off)

Amazon

$43

Ulta Beauty

$40

Dermstore

Why it's worth it: Fine lines and wrinkles tend to look more pronounced when skin is dry, which is why mature skin often responds so well to deep, consistent hydration. La Roche-Posay’s Hyalu B5 Pure Hyaluronic Acid Serum delivers on that front with a formula that keeps skin cushioned and calm. “It contains hyaluronic acid to deeply hydrate and plump the skin, which helps soften the appearance of fine lines and improve elasticity and volume,” says Christina Sun, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in Philadelphia. It also contains vitamin B5 to support skin repair and resilience, plus madecassosides (wound-healing compounds from Centella asiatica), which “nourish your skin barrier and soothe irritation,” Alexandra Bowles, MD, a board-certified dermatologist in Cincinnati, previously told Allure. The affordable serum is allergy-tested and gentle enough for sensitive types, which is key because the skin barrier tends to get a little more reactive as we age.

Tester feedback from commerce market editor Sarah Hoffmann

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“There are few skin issues in my life that a good hyaluronic acid serum can't fix. Dry patches? Hyaluronic acid. Dull skin? Hyaluronic acid. Clogged pores? You wouldn't think it, but hyaluronic acid genuinely helps balance my skin so it doesn't produce the excess oil that pisses my pores off. La Roche-Posay's Hyalu is the platonic ideal of an HA serum to me: medium viscosity, non-sticky, and vaguely aquatic-smelling. My skin is always better off when I make the time to stack it in ahead of moisturizer.” —Sarah Hoffmann, commerce market editor

More to know

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• Key ingredients: hyaluronic acid, Centella asiatica, vitamin B5
• Fragrance-free: yes

Best Retinol Serum: Paula’s Choice Intensive Wrinkle-Repair Retinol Serum

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Paula's Choice

Intensive Wrinkle-Repair Retinol Serum

$59

Amazon

Why it's worth it: Even before TikTok and Reddit threads turned retinol into an obsession, dermatologists were already loyal—and Paula’s Choice Intensive Wrinkle-Repair Retinol Serum has been their long-time favorite. This isn’t just any retinol serum: The stabilized 0.1% retinol (a sweet spot for current users who want to level up) gets backup from vitamins C and E, a pairing that encourages skin to look smoother and more even while addressing loss of firmness, one of the most common skin concerns that shows up with age. “Compounding vitamin C with another antioxidant (like vitamin E) preserves the stability and boosts the effectiveness of the serum,” Michelle Henry, MD, a board-certified dermatologist in New York City, previously told Allure. You get longer-lastingantioxidant protection and more noticeable smoothing benefits, particularly for deeper-set lines that can be harder to soften with age.

More to know

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• Key ingredients: 0.1% stabilized retinol, vitamin C, vitamin E
• Fragrance-free: yes

Best for Deep-Set Wrinkles: Alastin Restorative Skin Complex with TriHex+

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Alastin Skincare

Restorative Skin Complex with TriHex+

$258

Amazon

$258

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Why it's worth it: We’re not easily wooed by fancy terms like “medical grade”—we want the research-backed science to do the talking. Alastin’s Restorative Skin Complex with TriHex+ is a prime example: The multitasking serum centers on the brand’s signature TriHex+ Technology, a blend of peptides and botanicals designed to clear out damaged, worn-out proteins in the skin’s extracellular matrix and support the production of fresh collagen and elastin. The latest reformulation goes further, adding octapeptide-45 to support collagen, elastin, and hyaluronic acid production. It also now includes magnolol (an anti-inflammatory compound) to help restore the look of depleted volume and L-ornithine (an amino acid) to firm and plump thinning, dry skin. “It’s silky and lightweight, but with a more substantial texture that works well for people with mature skin and deeper structural issues,” says Dr. Queen.

Tester feedback from contributing commerce writer Christa Joanna Lee

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“As someone with dry, sensitive skin who’s starting to notice deeper wrinkles settling in—especially around my eyes—Alastin’s Restorative Skin Complex with TriHex+ has become one of my go-to serum-moisturizer hybrids. I’ve used it on and off for about a year now, and I can always tell when it’s missing from my routine: My skin looks duller, less plump, and generally more tired-looking.” —Christa Joanna Lee, contributing commerce writer

More to know

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• Key ingredients: TriHex Technology (peptide blend), octapeptide-45, magnolol, l-ornithine
• Fragrance-free: yes

Best Drugstore: CeraVe Skin Renewing Super Boost Serum

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CeraVe

Skin Renewing Super Boost Serum

$30 $25 (17% off)

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$25

Walmart

Why it's worth it: If skin-care ingredients had high school superlatives, CeraVe’s Skin Renewing Super Boost Serum would have quite the yearbook spread: Hyaluronic acid gets Most Hydrating, peptides take Best Line Smoother, niacinamide wins Most Likely to Brighten, and LHA earns Best Gentle Exfoliator. (Naturally pink vitamin B12 is there, too, giving the serum its rosy hue.) Together, the lineup targets fine lines, firmness, smoothness, brightness, and hydration—but the formula pays just as much attention to the skin barrier, which becomes increasingly important with age. “As skin matures, it becomes drier and more sensitive as the skin barrier loses strength, so this serum addresses signs of aging while also supporting the barrier, which is ideal,” says Dr. Queen.

To that end, the fragrance-free formula pairs three essential ceramides with the brand’s proprietary Ceramide Booster Technology, which helps encourage skin’s own ceramide production so it can hold onto moisture more effectively. And despite all that hydration, “the lightweight, milky serum absorbs quickly without leaving behind a greasy finish,” says Dr. Queen.

More to know

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• Key ingredients: niacinamide, peptides, hyaluronic acid, vitamin B12, LHA, ceramides
• Fragrance-free: yes

Frequently Asked Questions

What ingredients should I look for in a serum for mature skin?

“Retinoids are the gold standard ingredient in skin-care products [addressing aging skin],” says Dr. Sun, noting that they decrease the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles while stimulating collagen production for firmer, smoother-looking skin.

Hydration matters, too, especially since dryness can make texture and lines more visible. “Hyaluronic acid is also great because it draws moisture into the skin while helping skin look plump,” she adds. Emollients like squalane aid in softening dry skin and preventing that tight, parched feeling.

For discoloration and uneven texture, look to brightening ingredients like azelaic acid, as well as exfoliating acids. Glycolic and lactic acids loosen and sweep away dead surface cells to reveal smoother, more radiant-looking skin, while salicylic acid can be particularly useful for clogged pores and uneven texture. You certainly don’t need all of these ingredients in a single serum: Choose a formula based on the changes you’re most interested in addressing, whether that’s fine lines, dryness, dark spots, or loss of firmness.

Are face serums safe for sensitive or thinning mature skin?

Face serums are very safe for all skin types when chosen thoughtfully. “If you have irritation-prone or sensitive skin, use gentle, well-tolerated forms of active ingredients,” says Dr. Foad. For example, lower-strength or encapsulated retinoids can support collagen, smooth texture, and soften lines with less irritation, while ingredients like niacinamide, bisabolol, and ceramides maintain a steady, comfortable barrier. Dr. Foad also recommends introducing one new product at a time and avoiding multiple strong actives in the same routine. And since mature skin can be more delicate, “patch testing before full-face use is always a smart step.”

How are face serums for aging skin different from face oils?

Face serums and face oils for mature skin serve different purposes in your skin-care routine and are not interchangeable. “Serums are lightweight formulations designed to deliver concentrated active ingredients, such as retinoids, antioxidants, peptides, or hyaluronic acid, deeper into the skin,” says Dr. Foad. “They can support collagen production, cellular renewal, and can protect against intrinsic as well as environmental aging.”

Face oils, on the other hand, “focus primarily on moisturizing and reinforcing the skin barrier.” They’re excellent for sealing in hydration and pairing with moisturizers to improve comfort across skin types, but typically don’t contain actives at sufficient levels to drive structural change. For mature skin, Dr. Foad notes that serums address the underlying signs of aging, while oils can be used alongside them to support moisture and barrier health.

Meet the experts

• Alexandra Bowles, MD, a board-certified dermatologist at MONA Dermatology based in Cincinnati
• Mona Foad, MD, a board-certified dermatologist and founder of MONA Dermatology based in Cincinnati
• Michelle Henry, MD, is a board-certified dermatologist and founder of Skin & Aesthetic Surgery of Manhattan based in New York City
• Heidi Prather, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in Austin
• Dawn Queen, MD, a board-certified dermatologist at Park Ave Derm based in New York City
• Christina Sun, MD, a board-certified dermatologist at Dermatology Partners based in Philadelphia
• Jane Yoo, MD, a dual board-certified dermatologist and Mohs surgeon based in New York City

How we test and review products

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

For our list of the best face serums for aging skin, we considered each product's performance across five primary categories: product ingredients and efficacy, packaging, fragrance, texture, and product wear. Every product was determined to have excelled in each category by our editorial team, which is composed of in-house writers and editors as well as contributors—along with special consideration from board-certified dermatologists. 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.

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Frances Bean Cobain isn't exactly a red-carpet regular, and I totally get it. If my parents were '90s music legends (hers are Kurt Cobain and Courtney Love, if you're new to the planet), I'd probably lie low most of the time too. But she celebrated her own entertainment industry wins on Tuesday at a special screening of The Deputy, which she executive-produced. And Cobain wore a look, right down to her makeup, that suggests she's more than happy to be associated with the decade she was born in.

Everything about Cobain's outfit raspily screamed mid-'90s style, paying tribute to several trends of the time. The distressed, vintage Elvira tee and oversized brown leather jacket were spot-on grunge, the super-short lace shorts recalled the babydoll vibes of the time, and the white knee-high boots nailed the era's obsession with retro mod looks. Even her handmade orchid bag charm had piercings that felt true to the time.

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And just like her clothes and accessories served as a subtle nod to the '90s, so did her beauty look. Her hair was styled simply—straight, shiny, and side-parted, left down to flow freely. Her makeup was both fresh-faced and warm, with a hint of glowy, not shimmery, bronze on her cheeks and lids, and a generous dose of mascara without any discernible liner.

But the pièce de résistance, as subtle as it may be, was her glossy lip. Nothing feels more ‘90s to the casual beauty historian than a brown-leaning lipstick with visibly darker liner. And while Cobain’s interpretation of the look was more homage than imitation, it still evoked that angsty moment in time.

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Will we see Cobain on the red carpet more often moving forward? That's yet to be seen. But if so, she's clearly indicated that she's ready to deliver in the beauty-inspo department.

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Dakota Johnson says it's time to go one step further than matching your nails to your toes, your lipstick, or a gown. Instead, the Verity star has something more intimate in mind—matching your manicure to your exposed undies!

Stay with us here. Johnson is a noted fan of the sheer or naked dress; she often wears peekaboo styles on the red carpet and once told Vogue Germany that she pays no mind to criticism of her love of sheer gowns. “I really don’t care. I've been able to wear some of the most beautiful dresses, and I feel beautiful in them, so I wear them," she said last year. For the London premiere of the Colleen Hoover thriller, Johnson chose a cream lace down by Colleen Allen, under which her black bra and underwear could clearly, intentionally be seen. And because the beauty is in the details, Johnson also opted for an inky black manicure in the exact same shade as her undergarments.

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There are a few elements at play here. Not only do Johnson's medium-length noir nails match her underwear, but like the undies themselves, they serve as a grounding force for the entire look, adding a dose of edge and punk rock, unbothered cool to the delicate, sheer lace dress. Oh, and they also look great against her darker brunette hair color, which is currently more espresso than chocolate. (And as for those shorter, choppier bangs, Johnson's stylist Mark Townsend tells Allure: "With Dakota’s shorter bangs, I’ve been super inspired by pics of Christy Turlington from the early '90s when she had short fringe with full hair.")

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In addition, the gothic manicure is a nod to the season and the thrilling, twisty, moody plotline of her new movie, in which she plays Lowen, a writer hired to finish the work of the famous Verity, who suffered an accident and can no longer write her bestselling books. And make no mistake—this is a true black manicure, not a blackened red, purple, or burgundy. It's so dark and shiny it almost looks like latex on Johnson's fingertips, proving that a black manicure is just as versatile as a neutral or a crimson red. Why not match your mani to your undies, after all?

More nail news:

• Hailey Bieber's Cashmere Taupe Nails Are the Mani Equivalent of Your Favorite Sweater
• "Sunglass Nails" Are the Fashion Week-Approved Way to Go Sheer
• Selena Gomez's Sunset Frost Nails Capture Golden Hour in a Manicure