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If you told me a major model turned beauty entrepreneur had been spotted multiple times wearing a zig-zag headband, I'd immediately assume you were talking about Bella Hadid. She’s demonstrated on multiple occasions that it’s exactly the kind of Y2K throwback she'd pluck from obscurity and make look impossibly cool again. But it turns out the supermodel currently leading the charge for the return of the plastic scalloped comb headband is none other than Hailey Bieber, who's been sneaking the nostalgic accessory into photo after photo—including several snaps in a recent Instagram photo dump that make a very convincing case for digging through your old bathroom drawer at your parents’ house.

On Wednesday, Bieber included not one but three photos on three separate occasions in which she’s wearing the unmistakably late-‘90s, early-2000s hair accessory, proving that the zig-zag headband (also known as a shark tooth headband, or, if you were a Delia's devotee, simply the headband) has once again graduated from nostalgic relic to stylish staple.

In one mirror selfie, Bieber lets the matte, black headband push just enough hair away from her face, keeping it otherwise loose and effortless. In another snap taken during what appears to be a run in a weighted vest, her hair is pulled back into a bun, with the comb headband serving an especially practical purpose. Yet another selfie shows the same accessory styled with tiny sunglasses and, like in the sporty selfie, wired earbuds, which only adds to the Y2K of it all.

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This isn't Bieber's first flirtation with the style. She recently appeared in a Miu Miu campaign wearing a similarly nostalgic accordion-style headband, suggesting this isn't just a one-off styling choice but part of fashion's ongoing love affair with early-aughts accessories. And considering Miu Miu has more or less become the patron saint of Y2K revivalism in the last few years, the connection feels anything but accidental.

Some trends deserve another chance, don’t you think? The zig-zag headband may have once lived alongside butterfly clips, roll-on body glitter, and primitive flip phones, but in 2026, it actually feels surprisingly modern. All that's missing is the frosted lip gloss—and honestly, give it a week (and expect it to be called “glazed” lip gloss).

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Allure Reader Exclusive: Your first box is only $15 (with code ALLURE50), but it's worth over $225!

GET THE BOX

If I could, I’d wear a claw clip every day. (Actually, sometimes I do…) I love how easy they are to use (just twist, then clip), how they pair with just about any outfit (they come in so many cute colors and designs!), and that I can wear them just about anywhere, anytime. Except…just not while lying on the couch, or sitting upright on a plane, or even driving a car for fear of being poked.

Enter, the flat-back Teleties clip found in this month’s box. It’s a small but essential improvement on an everyday staple, which happens to be my favorite kind of beauty discovery. That’s what I love about this box. It’s filled with products that make you stop and wonder, “Where has this been all my life?” Whether it’s a skin-care ingredient everyone’s suddenly talking about, a fragrance that evolves throughout the day, or a beauty essential that solves a problem before it becomes one, each product offers its own little “a-ha” moment. And those discoveries are what beauty is all about!

New Member Gift: YSL Beauty Candy Glaze Lip Gloss Stick in Watermelon High

Why you’ll love it: It's hard to say what's more luxurious: the glassy shine this formula gives your lips or the incredibly chic silver tube. Luckily, you don't have to choose. The jelly texture, infused with hydrating hyaluronic acid, glides on effortlessly for a smooth, comfortable feel.

How you’ll use it: Pop off the cap and twist up the top to dispense the product. Then layer it over lip liner for added definition and a touch more pigment, or wear it solo for a shiny, sheer finish.

Retail Value: $43

Member Choice: Half Magic Eyeshadow Singles in Possessed Pearl, Sparkle Puff, or Tickle Spell

Why We Love It: Missing the glittering eye looks from Euphoria? We do, too, which is why you're going to love this month's Member Choice. Pick your favorite shade: Sparkle Puff, a champagne hue with blue shimmer; Possessed Pearl, a cool taupe with silvery sparkle; or Tickle Spell, a dreamy gold with light-catching shine. Created by the show's makeup artist, Donni Davy, Half Magic eye shadows deliver light-catching luminosity for looks that are both whimsical and ultra-wearable.

How You’ll Use It: Each velvety shade delivers pigmented payoff in a single swipe—but who says you have to stop there? Tap it on with your fingertip for maximum impact or blend with a brush for a softer, more diffused look.

Retail Value: $15

Medik8 Liquid Peptides

Why You’ll Love It: If you’ve been curious about all the buzz surrounding peptides, Medik8 is a great place to start. The powerhouse serum is made with a whopping 30% of the ingredient, along with hydrating hyaluronic acid, to smooth fine lines and plump up skin—no needles needed.

How You’ll Use It: After cleansing, massage a few pumps onto skin morning and night, before applying your moisturizer. The lightweight liquid absorbs in seconds, layers well with other products, and never pills. The ultimate application trifecta!

Retail Value: $68

Athr Beauty The Comeback Mascara

Why You’ll Love It: If you dread removing your mascara at the end of the day, you’re going to love Athr Beauty’s mascara. The do-it-all formula lengthens, lifts, and defines lashes while a cocktail of nourishing ingredients (tea extract and acai oil) care for lashes all without smudging, smearing, or melting. It completely removes with warm water—no rubbing, tugging, or mess required.

How You’ll Use It: After curling your lashes, hold the wand at the base of your lashes and wiggle it upward from root to tip. We found that the first coat delivers length and definition, while the second boosts volume (and drama).

Retail Value: $28

Dr. Brid C Barrier Defense Basic Cream

Why You’ll Love It: We tend to notice our skin barrier only when it’s unhappy. That’s where Dr. Brid C comes in. This K-Beauty cream combines coddling ceramides, calming niacinamide, and hydrating squalane to soothe skin and help lock in moisture—before dryness, tightness, and irritation have a chance to set in.

How You’ll Use It: As the second-to-last step in your skin-care routine (sunscreen should follow!), gently massage an even layer onto your face (and down your neck) until it’s fully absorbed. Then, let it work its comfort-cream magic.

Retail Value: $19.99

Teleties Flat Square Hair Clip in Coconut White, Almond Beige, Jet Black, or Silver Flames

Why You’ll Love It: Claw clips are great until it’s time to drive, watch TV, take a pilates class, or do just about anything with a headrest. Teleties reimagines the trendy hair accessory with a flat-back design that sits snugly against your head while still keeping strands securely in place.

How You’ll Use It: Twist your hair up and secure with the flexible teeth for a comfortable, all-day hold. The flattened design works across a variety of hair textures and lengths (and comes in so many fun shades and shapes!), making it an easy, everyday staple.

Retail Value: $12.99-$14.99

Commodity Juice Expressive or Milk Expressive

Why You’ll Love It: This month, you received either Milk Expressive, a warm and cozy blend of marshmallow, woods, and tonka bean, or Juice Expressive, a bright, fruit-forward scent with a playful streak. They’re very different fragrances, but they share one thing in common: a knack for making people ask, “Wait, what are you wearing?”

How You’ll Use It: Spritz onto pulse points and let time do the rest. The notes you smell upon first application will gradually evolve, revealing new dimensions of the fragrance minutes later, and again in the hours that follow. It’s a true scent experience.

Retail Value: $14

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Brr… is that a cold front coming in? Given that we're rapidly approaching August and the hottest days of summer, probably not—but Florence Pugh's Spider-Man manicure feels like a chilly air-conditioned breeze for your fingers.

Pugh popped up at the London premiere of Spider-Man: Brand New Day, as it's rumored she's appearing in the film as her Marvel Universe character Yelena Belova. She went full ice queen with her look, including a glimmering silvery-white beaded gown and a set of frosted nails that matched the dress almost exactly. The Oscar-nominated star and manicurist Michelle Class kept her nails fairly short and filed them into a softly rounded square shape, topped with a few layers of a sheer, cool white hue with a shimmery finish that looked like actual pearls laid atop her nails—but maybe pearls worn by Queen Elsa in her Frozen palace.

Sure, these could be called glazed donut nails, but they're slightly more opaque than the widely loved manicure aesthetic, and the cool tone of the white polish is definitely fit for an ice queen. The key word here is “frosted,” after all!

Getty Images

Pugh isn't the only celeb embracing cool nail polish tones when it's hot-hot-hot outside. Last week, Hailey Bieber—queen of the glazed nails—stepped out in steamy New York City in a matching cornflower blue mani-pedi that instantly cooled down the sweltering summertime heat—and inspired more than a few Allure editors and writers to go blue at their next nail appointment.

If you're feeling Pugh's pearl nails and want to replicate the frosty chill from the comfort of your (hopefully air-conditioned) home, Londontown's Enhanced Colour in Powder nails the vibe, as do Sally Hansen's Insta-Dri Nail Polish in Silk and Cirque Color's Nail Polish in the pearlescent, ballet-inspired shade Sylph. Then turn on the fan to its highest setting to cool down and let your nails dry. In this case, a little summer frost is a very, very good thing!

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Whether you're looking to calm sensitive skin, brighten a dull complexion, or give yourself a midday refresh, the best hydrating face mists do the trick. Face mists are formulated to hydrate and balance the skin, often using nourishing ingredients such as niacinamide, aloe vera, and witch hazel. Others tackle oiliness, and a few even double as setting sprays. We spoke with Allure editors and board-certified dermatologists to get the lowdown on their favorite sprays and the ingredients that make them stand out. We even included a few Best of Beauty winners (it's because we love you). Without further ado, we invite you to peruse the best face mists the web has to offer and let the spritzing begin.

Our Top Hydrating Face Mists

• Best Overall: Biodance Collagen Peptide Jelly Serum Mist, $19
• Best for Eczema: Prequel Skin Universal Skin Solution Hypochlorous Acid Spray, $17
• Best for Oily Skin: Caudalie Beauty Elixir, $49
• Best Drugstore: La Roche-Posay Cicaplast B5 Spray, $25

Frequently Asked QuestionsAccordionItemContainerButtonLargeChevron

• What are the benefits of using a face mist?
• What ingredients should I look for in a face mist?
• Meet the experts
• How we test and review products
• Our staff and testers

Best Overall: Biodance Collagen Peptide Jelly Serum Mist

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Biodance

Collagen Peptide Jelly Serum Mist

$19 $15 (21% off)

Amazon

$19

Nordstrom

$19

Sephora

Why it’s worth it: ICYMI, one of our favorite overnight hydrogel masks now comes in a mist. Biodance’s Collagen Peptide Jelly Serum Mist lets you choose your own adventure: Hold the bottle about eight inches from your face, and it releases an ultrafine, refreshing mist—but when you spritz it closer to your skin, the texture feels more like a lightweight serum. The formula features 77% collagen water and a 243Da collagen extract. If you've spent any time shopping K-beauty, you've probably noticed some brands talk about daltons (Da), a unit of molecular weight. In general, the lower the number, the smaller the molecule—and at 243 Da, this collagen extract is notably smaller than what's found in many collagen formulas, allowing it to better interact with the skin's outermost layers for a smoother, plumper, more hydrated feel.

Allure commerce editor Sarah Han applying the Biodance Collagen Peptide Jelly Serum Mist

Sarah Han

Allure creative director Amber Venerable applying the Biodance Collagen Peptide Jelly Serum Mist

Amber Venerable

Tester feedback from commerce editor Sarah Han

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“These Biodance mists hit different—they truly feel like a lighter version of the brand's viral hydrogel masks. I can't stand ultra-ultra-fine mists that feel like they disappear in midair. These mists, however, seem to create a temporary layer that sits on top of your skin before it sinks in. I also go pretty hard with my mists—after all, I'm treating it like a moisturizer! I want the hydrating benefits! They also apply nicely over makeup so I'm always spritzing throughout the day! It's just so refreshing and juicy; there's no other way to describe it. I'm almost out of my first bottle (I switch between this one and the Caviar PDRN mist, by the way) and already have a second bottle ready to go.” —Sarah Han, commerce editor

More to know

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• Key ingredients: 77% collagen water, collagen extract, signal peptides, niacinamide, hydrolyzed hyaluronic acid, galactomyces ferment filtrate, adenosine, glycerin
• Who it's good for: everyone, especially those with dry, dehydrated, dull, or mature skin
• Fragrance-free: yes

Best for Eczema: Prequel Skin Universal Skin Solution Hypochlorous Acid Spray

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Prequel

Universal Skin Solution Hypochlorous Acid Spray

$17 $14 (18% off)

Amazon

Allure beauty director Sarah Kinonen applying the Prequel Skin Universal Skin Solution Hypochlorous Acid Spray

Sarah Kinonen

Why it’s worth it: Prequel's Best of Beauty-winning Universal Skin Solution Hypochlorous Acid Spray keeps things refreshingly simple with just water, hypochlorous acid, and sodium chloride (which stabilizes the formula). This combination calms skin and reduces acne-causing bacteria without unnecessary extras. "Not only is it affordable, but it’s designed to be compatible with the skin's naturally acidic pH, making it exceptionally well tolerated by all skin types," says Carlos Vieira, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in Philadelphia. "It's an easy way to freshen the skin and reduce acne-causing bacteria,” he says. It also carries the National Eczema Association Seal of Acceptance, meaning it has been reviewed for its ingredients and safety considerations, making it suitable for many people with eczema or sensitive skin—an extra layer of reassurance for reactive complexions.

Tester feedback from beauty director Sarah Kinonen

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“I’ve lost count of how many bottles of this mist I’ve emptied over the last year or two. I keep one in my gym bag (for a quick post-workout cleanse), my work bag (for random piercing irritation), and my bathroom cabinet (for my husband)—it’s a routine staple!” —Sarah Kinonen, beauty director

More to know

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• Key ingredients: hypochlorous acid and sodium chloride
• Who it's good for: everyone, especially those with sensitive, reactive, or acne-prone skin
• Fragrance-free: yes

Best for Oily Skin: Caudalie Beauty Elixir

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Caudalíe

Beauty Elixir

$49

Amazon

$49

Nordstrom

$49

Sephora

Allure social director Kassidy Silva applying the Caudalie Beauty Elixir

Kassidy Silva

Why it’s worth it: It might seem counterintuitive to spritz a hydrating mist onto oily skin, but here's the thing: Oily skin is often thirsty skin. When skin lacks water, it can overcompensate by producing even more oil. The Best of Beauty Award-winning formula stops the cycle with a blend of rosemary and peppermint, which leaves skin feeling refreshed with its mild astringent properties and the cooling sensation of mint. "This is a refreshing midday pick-me-up, particularly for oily skin types," says Mamina Turegano, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in New Orleans. "It has a lightweight feel and helps take down some of that midday shine."Rose essential oil and orange blossom water help calm skin and boost visible radiance, while grape extract provides lightweight hydration. One caveat: Because it contains added fragrance and essential oils, Dr. Turegano recommends it for those whose skin isn't particularly sensitive.

Tester feedback from social director Kassidy Silva

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"Sometimes it’s the little luxuries that get us through the day. The Caudalie Elixir is mine. I go through a bottle of this each year at the office and like to do a few spritzes after lunchtime. It helps keep my skin refreshed in the stale office air, and the airy essential oil blend—a mix of peppermint, rose, rosemary, orange blossom, and lemon balm—is light enough that it’s okay to spray in an office. (Not everyone is down with those heavy scents!) At $50, it’s definitely a splurge, but if you have the funds, it's a great treat." —Kassidy Silva, social director

More to know

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• Key ingredients: grape water, orange blossom water, rosemary, rose, and mint essential oils
• Who it's good for: people with oily skin
• Fragrance-free: no

Best Drugstore: La Roche-Posay Cicaplast B5 Spray

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La Roche-Posay

Cicaplast B5 Spray

$25

Amazon

$28

Ulta Beauty

$25

Dermstore

Allure contributing commerce writer Christa Joanna Lee applying the La Roche-Posay Cicaplast B5 Spray

Christa Joanna Lee

Why it’s worth it: Any Allure editor can spot the iconic blue-and-white tube of La Roche-Posay’s Cicaplast Baume B5 from a mile away—it's the first thing we reach for when skin starts acting up. If slathering on a balm feels like too much effort (or your skin is too tender to touch), the Cicaplast B5 Spray delivers many of the same soothing benefits in an ultrafine mist. "When someone's skin barrier is compromised, or their skin feels dry and tight, this is one I reach for," says Dr. Turegano.

The formula pairs panthenol (vitamin B5) and madecassoside—a soothing extract from Centella asiatica—with the brand’s signature selenium-rich Thermal Spring Water to calm irritation, while glycerin draws in moisture for longer-lasting hydration. "It feels much more nourishing than a typical facial mist," says Dr. Turegano, who especially recommends it after retinoids or during travel. Dr. Vieira also loves it as the first step in a nighttime routine: "I tell my patients to think of it as a 'skin reset' before bed because its lightweight texture layers easily under moisturizer while helping create the ideal environment for the skin's overnight repair process.”

Tester feedback from contributing commerce writer Christa Joanna Lee

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“Ever since an annoying allergic reaction to a different skin-care product, I've been overly cautious about letting anything new touch my face—which, admittedly, is a bit of an occupational hazard when you're a beauty editor. But if there was ever a brand I trusted to ease me back in, it was La Roche-Posay. This spray is about as stripped-back as it gets, with the brand's soothing thermal spring water, panthenol, and calming cica. Every spritz felt instantly comforting on my irritated skin, and I loved the peace of mind that came with knowing I wasn't piling on unnecessary ingredients while my skin barrier was trying to recover. I like to spray a little more than recommended as my skin is very thirsty in general, and it instantly absorbs without having to rub it in." —Christa Joanna Lee, contributing commerce writer

More to know

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• Key ingredients: panthenol, madecassoside, glycerin, Thermal Spring Water
• Who it's good for: everyone, especially those with sensitive skin or a damaged barrier
• Fragrance-free: yes

Best for Very Dry Skin: Summer Fridays Jet Lag Mist

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Summer Fridays

Jet Lag Mist

$21

Amazon

$21

Sephora

$21

Revolve

Allure senior commerce director Shanna Shipin applying Summer Fridays Jet Lag Mist

Shanna Shipin

Why it's worth it: Sun exposure, retinoids, and the natural moisture loss that comes with aging can all leave skin feeling tight and dehydrated, making Summer Fridays' Jet Lag Mist a welcome pick-me-up whether you're 30,000 feet in the air or simply running errands. The featherlight formula combines glycerin to replenish moisture with panthenol, aloe, cica, cucumber extract, and allantoin to calm and comfort, while ceramides, ectoin, and squalane strengthen the skin barrier so hydration lasts. Our tester especially loves that it plays well with makeup, layering seamlessly both underneath and on top without causing foundation to pill, separate, or slide around.

Tester feedback from senior commerce director Shanna Shipin

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“My skin is so prone to dryness that I use a mist regularly, and this is my number one fave. I tend to stay within a brand family so my products all work well together, and as a loyal Jet Lag Mask user I was so happy Summer Fridays expanded the line and launched this mist. I use it all. the time. Before applying makeup (a must for me) and as a refresher during the day (my skin will develop dry patches on the regular as the day wears on). I love that it's not a massive bottle that has to stay on my vanity—I have two of these and one is for at-home, and the other is my travel mist! I've never had an issue with uneven spritzes—it's just a fine spray that never results in droplets on my face or clothing, or leaves me too dewy. Just hydrated and supple.” —Shanna Shipin, senior commerce director

More to know

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• Key ingredients: allantoin, bisabolol, panthenol, cucumber extract, ceramides, squalane, green tea extract, vitamin E, ectoin
• Who it’s for: people with dry skin
• Fragrance-free: yes

More face mists we love:

Best for Mature Skin: SkinMedica HA5 Hydra Collagen Facial Mist

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SkinMedica

HA5 Hydra Collagen Facial Mist

$58

Amazon

$58

Dermstore

$58

Bluemercury

Why it’s worth it: SkinMedica took skin care's hall-of-fame hydrator—hyaluronic acid—and found a way to make it work even harder. The HA5 Hydra Collagen Facial Mist “combines five forms of hyaluronic acid with vegan collagen to give skin an immediate boost of hydration, leaving skin looking plumper and dewier," says Dr. Turegano. The formula also features proprietary Micro-lyte Technology—a blend of electrolytes and minerals (including magnesium, zinc, copper, and manganese)—along with niacinamide to support the skin barrier and promote a healthier-looking complexion. "Even though it's a mist, the brand has clinical studies showing improvements in the appearance of fine lines with consistent use over time, which is something you don't typically expect from this category,” she says.

More to know

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• Key ingredients: hyaluronic acid, electrolytes, magnesium, zinc, copper, manganese, niacinamide
• Who it's good for: everyone, especially those with fine lines
• Fragrance-free: yes

Best for Sensitive Skin: Eau Thermale Avène Thermal Spring Water

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Eau Thermale Avène

Thermal Spring Water

$20

Amazon

$20

Dermstore

$20

Ulta Beauty

Why it's worth it: If you've ever wondered how a can of thermal spring water became a French pharmacy icon, you're not alone. Eau Thermale Avène’s Thermal Spring Water is sourced from the Sainte-Odile Spring in southern France, where rainwater spends nearly 50 years filtering through the Cévennes Mountains. Along the way, it picks up a mix of minerals, silica, and naturally occurring postbiotic compounds believed to soothe sensitive skin, then is bottled at the source to preserve its composition.

As a result, "this is about as gentle as facial mists get," says Dr. Turegano. She recommends it for sensitive, irritation-prone, and post-procedure skin, and even suggests storing it in the refrigerator for an extra-refreshing spritz whenever skin feels hot or irritated. Dr. Vieira also recommends it for those prone to rosacea, facial redness, or visible blood vessels: “Its skin-compatible pH makes it gentle enough to use throughout the day without disrupting the skin barrier.” As Dr. Turegano puts it: "Sometimes the simplest formulas really are the best."

Tester feedback from Kinonen

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“I find it usually only takes two to three generous spritzes to completely soak my face (again, that's exactly what I'm looking for when it's hotter than hot out) and instantly refresh my makeup and, let's be honest, mood. Immediately afterward, I feel like a person again and ready to take on anything, including commuting on a hot, sticky summer day." —Sarah Kinonen, beauty director

More to know

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• Key ingredients: thermal spring water
• Who it's good for: dry and sensitive skin
• Fragrance-free: yes

Best for Redness: SkinCeuticals Phyto Corrective Essence Mist

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SkinCeuticals

Phyto Corrective Essence Mist

$70

SkinCeuticals

$70

Dermstore

$70

Bluemercury

Why it's worth it: If your skin is looking a little red and feeling extra reactive, reach for this green bottle. SkinCeuticals’ Phyto Corrective Essence Mist is one of Dr. Turegano’s top picks for easily flushed or irritated skin because it pairs 6.2% hyaluronic acid and glycerin to replenish hydration, and it blends calming botanicals, including olive leaf, cucumber, boldo leaf, rosemary, thyme, and grapefruit extracts, to reduce visible redness. "I like that it feels lightweight and layers well over skin care or makeup without feeling sticky," says Dr. Turegano. "It's the kind of mist I reach for when my skin feels dry, tight, or just needs a quick refresh during the day."

More to know

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• Key ingredients: hyaluronic acid, glycerin, cucumber extract
• Who it's good for: people prone to redness
• Fragrance-free: no

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the benefits of using a face mist?

Besides feeling amazingly cooling, face mists offer some of the best benefits of your favorite skin-care products. "A face mist gives instant hydration to the skin and a boost of sun-protection, moisturization, and irritation-calming actives," says cosmetic chemist Ginger King. Still, the benefits highly depend on the type of face mist you choose, says Hadley King, MD, a board-certified dermatologist in New York City. "[Some mists] are formulated with humectants to hydrate the skin, some have emollients to support the skin barrier, and some have sunscreen ingredients to offer sun protection," Dr. King adds. "Some have hypochlorous acid to offer antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and wound-healing properties."

King also cites ease of use as a benefit of skin mists. "[Mists don't] interfere with makeup as much. If you use a lotion or cream, you have to apply it over makeup, while you can just spritz a mist over [what you have on your face]. It's less work and less mess, especially on a made-up face," she notes.

What ingredients should I look for in a face mist?

Remember your skin concerns and goals when shopping for a face mist, but across the board, King advises looking for ingredients like hyaluronic acid and glycerin. "What you look for is what you want to achieve. Moisturizing, antioxidant, or anti-inflammatory benefits—the big three reasons people use it." King also says that noting the size of the particles coming out of the nozzle is essential, and the finer the mist, the better. "[Look for] sunscreen ingredients for sun protection, hypochlorous acid for antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and wound-healing properties, and soothing ingredients like aloe, calendula, allantoin, bisabolol, and beta-glucan for anti-inflammatory properties," Dr. King notes.

Meet the experts

• Ginger King, a cosmetic chemist
• Hadley King, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in New York City
• Mamina Turegano, MD, a board-certified dermatologist, internist, and dermatopathologist based in New Orleans
• Carlos Vieira, a board-certified dermatologist at The Dermatology Specialists based in Philadelphia

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 mists, 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 and cosmetic chemists. 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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We know that Zendaya has become the queen of dressing—and beauty-ing—on theme for movie premieres and promotional events, drawing a fine line between couture and cosplay for nearly every red carpet moment associated with The Drama, The Odyssey, and, of course, Spider-Man: Brand New Day. But for her latest appearance, the Los Angeles premiere of the long-awaited new Spidey film, it seems she might even be using her dress and hair to drop hints about surprises in the movie.

The hairstyle, created by hairstylist Ursula Stephen, is far from your typical slicked-back ponytail. Instead of the baby bangs Zendaya has been seen sporting at a few recent events, her fringe was styled into glossy pieces firmly yet artfully arranged across her forehead. The sculpted bangs take on almost liquid-looking shapes that instantly call to mind Venom's unmistakable symbiote tendrils.

It’s worth noting that Marvel hasn't confirmed that the fan-favorite antihero appears in Spider-Man: Brand New Day, but if there were ever a beauty look designed to get fans theorizing, this is it.

Stephen revealed that achieving the look started with freshly washed, soaking-wet hair. She sectioned it off before working gel throughout to create the ultra-sleek finish, then used the Bur Bur Essential Boar Bristle Brush to smooth every strand tightly against the head. After blow-drying everything into place, she finished with a firm-hold shine spray to lock it in all evening.

Photo: Getty Images

And then there's the dress, which feels every bit as Venom-coded as the hairstyle. Zendaya wore a dramatic black Ashi Studio gown with a plunging neckline and enormous sculptural satin ruffles that billowed around her. Even the exaggerated shoulder straps curve upward into whip-like tendrils. It's glamorous, yet just unsettling enough to feel like a fashion interpretation of Venom's constantly shifting form.

Photo: Getty Images

Keeping with the dark vibes, makeup artist Ernesto Casillas kept the focus squarely on Zendaya's eyes, creating a lightly smoky effect with Prada Beauty Dimensions Eyeshadow in Profusion and Primula. He added extra depth by tracing the lash lines with Pradalines Durable Gliding Eye Pencil in Nero and Ember before finishing with Pradascope Lash Extending Mascara in Nero.

Whether this serve is intentional foreshadowing or simply another brilliantly thematic Zendaya fashion moment, one thing is certain: nobody commits to a movie premiere look quite like she does.

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

There are beauty sales, and then there’s the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale—the rare event during which you can stock up on editor-approved favorites, exclusive value sets, and luxury splurges all in one place. From July 18 through August 9, the sale is open to the public—no cardholder status needed. This year's event is especially noteworthy as Nordstrom celebrates its 125th anniversary with its largest beauty assortment on sale to date, making it even easier to score products our editors love—plus plenty of Allure Best of Beauty and Readers' Choice Award winners.

Whether you're replacing a well-loved curling iron, replenishing your favorite sunscreen, finally treating yourself to that chic fragrance you've been eyeing, or, dare we say, getting a head start on holiday shopping—is it ever really too early?—this is one of the best times of the year to shop prestige beauty. We combed through hundreds of deals to narrow down the standouts worth your attention before they inevitably sell out.

Our Top Nordstrom Anniversary Sale Beauty Deals

Sky’s the LimitCharlotte Tilbury Exagger-Eyes Volume Mascara DuoJump to review$58 $38 (34% off)

Nordstrom

A Bright IdeaTherabody TheraFace Mask GloJump to review$380 $300 (21% off)

Nordstrom

Three’s CompanySupergoop Play Antioxidant Body Mist SPF 50 Sunscreen TrioJump to review$72 $49 (32% off)

Nordstrom

Stock Up on ShineOlaplex Double Shine N°7 Bonding Oil DuoJump to review$88 $62 (30% off)

Nordstrom

Fresh Air, BottledJo Malone Wood Sage & Sea Salt Home & Away Gift SetJump to review$262 $175 (33% off)

Nordstrom

Jump to:

• Best Nordstrom Anniversary Sale Makeup Deals
• Best Nordstrom Anniversary Sale Skin-Care Deals
• Best Nordstrom Anniversary Sale Hair-Care Deals
• Best Nordstrom Anniversary Sale Fragrance Deals

Best Nordstrom Anniversary Sale Makeup Deals

Charlotte Tilbury Exagger-Eyes Volume Mascara Duo

Allure former senior news editor Nicola Dall’Asen applying the Charlotte Tilbury Exagger-Eyes Volume Mascara

Nicola Dall'AsenSave to wishlistSave to wishlist

Charlotte Tilbury

Exagger-Eyes Volume Mascara Duo

$58 $38 (34% off)

Nordstrom

When it comes to Charlotte Tilbury’s mascaras, more is definitely more. The Exagger-Eyes Volume Mascara pairs an ultra-curved brush—designed with laser-cut fiber bristles that catch, separate, and amplify every lash—with a smudge-resistant tubing formula for fluttery, fanned-out volume that lasts, or as former senior news editor Nicola Dall’Asen puts it, "what I get every time is a lash long and fluttery enough that I could set sail on it." Trust us: Once this becomes your daily go-to, you'll appreciate having a second tube on standby.

Westman Atelier Petite Baby Cheeks Blush & Lit Up Highlight Stick DuoSave to wishlistSave to wishlist

Westman Atelier

Petite Baby Cheeks Blush & Lit Up Highlight Stick Duo

$52 $35 (33% off)

Nordstrom

Allure global senior director of commerce audience and analytics Lexi Herrick applying Westman Atelier’s Lit Up Highlight Stick

Lexi Herrick

Consider this duo your fastest route to a fresh, glowy complexion. According to global senior director of commerce audience and analytics Lexi Herrick, the Westman Atelier Baby Cheeks Blush Stick “blends incredibly smoothly and beautifully,” while nourishing skin with jojoba seed oil, vitamin C, vitamin E, and oil-absorbing kaolin clay. The coordinating Lit Up Highlight Stick uses light-reflecting mica and antioxidant-rich grape extract to deliver a dewy, lit-from-within glow—no brushes needed.

MAC Glossy Comfort Lip Combo Kit

Allure social media manager Bianca Richards applying MAC Lip Pencil in Cork

Bianca RichardsSave to wishlistSave to wishlist

MAC Cosmetics

Glossy Comfort Lip Combo Kit

$50 $33 (34% off)

Nordstrom

Does Velvet Teddy really need an introduction? This lip duo pairs MAC's iconic neutral Lip Pencil with a coordinating Lipglass Air Non-Sticky Gloss in Casual, a lightweight formula infused with a 7% blend of coconut, jojoba, and meadowfoam seed oils for glass-like shine and up to eight hours of hydration. While social media manager Bianca Richards is applying MAC Lip Pencil in Cork (another versatile shade) in the video above, she says the brand's lip pencils are among her favorites for their color payoff and creamy formulas.

Hourglass Essentials Makeup Brush SetSave to wishlistSave to wishlist

Hourglass

Essentials Makeup Brush Set

$220 $146 (34% off)

Nordstrom

Former Allure commerce writer Lily Wohlner using the Hourglass Soft Glow Foundation Brush

Lily Wohlner

When's the last time you replaced your makeup brushes? Yep, that's what we thought. This Hourglass set upgrades your entire routine with three of the brand's best-selling brushes. It includes the multitasking Ambient Lighting Edit Brush, which former commerce writer Lily Wohlner loves because it's "small enough to get into every corner but still glides across your face effortlessly.” Plus, it comes with the Vanish Seamless Finish Concealer Brush for more precise application, and the Ambient Complexion Brush for all-over blending.

Best Nordstrom Anniversary Sale Skin-Care Deals

TheraFace Mask Glo

Allure contributing commerce writer Christa Joanna Lee using the TheraFace Mask Glo

Christa Joanna LeeSave to wishlistSave to wishlist

Therabody

TheraFace Mask Glo

$380 $300 (21% off)

Nordstrom

“If your ideal skin-care routine is tackling as many concerns as possible while doing as little as possible, the TheraFace Mask Glo is worth adding to your lineup,” says contributing commerce writer Christa Joanna Lee. This cordless LED mask uses clinically studied red, blue, and infrared light to help firm skin, calm inflammation, and target acne-causing bacteria, so you can address fine lines, uneven texture, and breakouts in one hands-free treatment—all without downtime.

Supergoop Play Antioxidant Body Mist SPF 50 Sunscreen TrioSave to wishlistSave to wishlist

Supergoop

Play Antioxidant Body Mist SPF 50 Sunscreen Trio

$72 $49 (32% off)

Nordstrom

Allure editor in chief Jessica Cruel applying the Supergoop Play Antioxidant Body Sunscreen Mist SPF 50

Jessica Cruel

When you're applying sunscreen every two hours (you are, right?), it helps to always have a few backups ready. Supergoop's Play Antioxidant Body Sunscreen Mist is an ultra-fine, water-resistant spray that pairs SPF 50 chemical UV filters with antioxidant-rich green tea and acai extracts to defend against free radical damage. “I love this spray for my beach days because it's lightweight and gives off a glow at first application—then it dries down, and it's barely detectable,” says editor in chief Jessica Cruel.

Nécessaire The Body Wash Duo Set

Allure contributing writer Deanna Pai applying the Nécessaire The Body Wash in Hinoki

Deanna PaiSave to wishlistSave to wishlist

Nécessaire

The Body Wash Duo Set

$56 $39 (30% off)

Nordstrom

Some beauty products are nice to have. But body wash? That's firmly in the can't-skip-it category, especially during the dog days of summer when sweat, sunscreen, and daily showers become part of the routine. Nécessaire's The Body Wash Duo makes that everyday step feel a little more luxurious with a nourishing blend of marula, meadowfoam, and cacay oils, barrier-supporting niacinamide, and an invigorating eucalyptus scent that leaves dry skin feeling clean, soft, and comfortable

Flamingo Estate Green Goddess Candle & Soap Brick Gift SetSave to wishlistSave to wishlist

Flamingo Estate

Green Goddess Candle & Soap Brick Gift Set

$122 $80 (34% off)

Nordstrom

Allure senior commerce director Shanna Shipin lighting the Flamingo Estate Green Goddess Candle

Shanna Shipin

Flamingo Estate's Green Goddess Soap Brick has become one of the brand's signature favorites, and when it's paired with the matching candle, the set strikes the perfect balance between practical and indulgent for anyone who loves a good "everything shower" or a beautifully scented home.

Elemis Pro-Collagen Cleansing Balm

Lee applying the Elemis Pro-Collagen Cleansing Balm

Christa Joanna LeeSave to wishlistSave to wishlist

Elemis

Pro-Collagen Cleansing Balm

$126 $85 (33% off)

Nordstrom

Few products are as satisfying as watching the Elemis Pro-Collagen Cleansing Balm melt a full face of makeup into nothing. The buttery balm transforms into a silky oil, then a milky rinse, effortlessly dissolving stubborn SPF, waterproof mascara, and the day's grime. “I use it even on non-makeup days because the nourishing elderberry oil, starflower oil, and algae extract leave skin feeling soft, hydrated, and never stripped,” says Lee. And if you've ever wished your favorite cleanser came in a giant tub, this generous seven-ounce size is exactly what you're looking for.

Best Nordstrom Anniversary Sale Hair-Care Deals

Moroccanoil Hydrating ConditionerSave to wishlistSave to wishlist

Moroccanoil

Hydrating Conditioner

$56 $39 (30% off)

Nordstrom

Lee after using the Moroccanoil Hydrating Shampoo and Conditioner Set

Christa Joanna Lee

If you have long, dry hair, you already know the conditioner somehow always runs out well before the shampoo. All the more reason to stock up on Moroccanoil’s Hydrating Conditioner, packed with argan oil, which is "unique in its composition, offering high amounts of oleic and linoleic acids, making it extremely rich and moisturizing," says Orlando-based cosmetic chemist Krupa Koestline. "I'm extremely particular about conditioners, and this one has a great slip and a medium-thick texture that coats my hair without immediately slipping off,” says Lee.

Olaplex Double Shine N°7 Bonding Oil Duo

Allure managing editor Alessandra Foresto applying the Olaplex Double Shine N°7 Bonding Oil Duo

Alessandra ForestoSave to wishlistSave to wishlist

Olaplex

Double Shine N°7 Bonding Oil Duo

$88 $62 (30% off)

Nordstrom

Hair oils have a fine line to walk: enough nourishment to tame frizz and boost shine without leaving your strands looking greasy. Olaplex’s No. 7 Bonding Oil nails that balance with the brand's bond-building technology, bis-aminopropyl diglycol dimaleate, plus smoothing dimethicone, strengthening moringa seed oil, conditioning sunflower seed oil, and lightweight grapeseed and fermented green tea oils to soften, repair, and add glossy shine—all while protecting hair from heat.

Lancôme Renergie H.C.F Triple Serum & Night Cream 3-Piece Gift SetSave to wishlistSave to wishlist

Lancôme

Renergie H.C.F Triple Serum & Night Cream 3-Piece Gift Set

$277 $169 (39% off)

Nordstrom

Lee applying the Lancôme Rénergie H.C.F. Triple Serum

Christa Joanna Lee

Lancôme's Rénergie H.C.F. Triple Serum combines three powerful serums in one bottle to target hydration loss, dark spots, fine lines, and firmness simultaneously. "H.C.F." stands for hyaluronic acid, vitamin C + niacinamide, and ferulic acid—three time-tested ingredients for addressing visible signs of aging—and this set includes both a full-size and travel-friendly mini of the serum, plus the Rénergie Multi-Lift Night Cream to complete your nighttime routine.

T3 AireBrushSave to wishlistSave to wishlist

T3

AireBrush

$150 $100 (33% off)

Nordstrom

Former Allure associate director of audience development Melanie Curry using the T3 Airebrush with the oval brush head

Melanie Curry

If you've never quite mastered the round-brush-and-blow-dryer routine, the T3 AireBrush is the shortcut you've been waiting for. New York City-based hairstylist Jennifer Korab calls it her go-to blowout brush for beginners thanks to its lightweight design, multiple heat and speed settings, and smooth ceramic barrel that glides through hair so effortlessly it feels more like you’re simply brushing your hair—no pulling, tugging, or twisting required.

Bumble and bumble Thickening Dryspun Texture SpraySave to wishlistSave to wishlist

Bumble and Bumble

Thickening Dryspun Texture Spray

$53 $34 (36% off)

Nordstrom

Lee applying the Bumble and bumble Thickening Dryspun Texture Spray

Christa Joanna Lee

Some people are born with big, bouncy hair. The rest of us have Bumble and Bumble Dryspun Texture Spray. A blend of zeolite, hydrolyzed wheat protein, and silk powder gives hair that perfectly undone, full-of-life texture with flexible hold. And once you see how often you reach for it, you'll be very glad you caught this jumbo size on sale.

Best Nordstrom Anniversary Sale Fragrance Deals

Jo Malone Wood Sage & Sea Salt Home & Away Gift Set

Lee applying the Jo Malone Wood Sage Cologne

Christa Joanna LeeSave to wishlistSave to wishlist

Jo Malone

Wood Sage & Sea Salt Home & Away Gift Set

$262 $175 (33% off)

Nordstrom

"If a beach vacation could be bottled, it would probably smell like Jo Malone London's Wood Sage & Sea Salt," says Lee. The airy blend of ambrette seed, sea salt, and earthy sage captures the feeling of windswept hair and sun-warmed skin without relying on the heavy coconut or vanilla notes that so often define beachy fragrances. This gift set includes both a full-size and travel-size bottle, so you can take that just-got-back-from-the-coast feeling wherever you go.

Tory Burch Sublime Eau de Parfum SetSave to wishlistSave to wishlist

Tory Burch

Sublime Eau de Parfum Set

$120 $75 (38% off)

Nordstrom

Allure social director Kassidy Silva holding the Tory Burch Sublime Eau de Parfum

Kassidy Silva

A 2025 Best of Beauty Award winner, Tory Burch’s Sublime Eau de Parfum is bright and easygoing with timeless notes like rose, vetiver, osmanthus, and leather that give depth to the sunny citrus fragrance. This set includes both a full-size and travel-friendly bottle, so you can keep the mood-boosting scent close wherever the rest of summer takes you.

Frequently Asked Questions

Meet the experts

• Krupa Koestline, a cosmetic chemist based in Orlando
• Jennifer Korab, a hairstylist based in New York City

How we test and review products

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

And for our reviews of the best Nordstrom Anniversary Sale deals, we enlisted the help of multiple editors, writers, contributors, cosmetic chemists, and makeup artists with a range of experience studying and using these products. Testers considered performance across four primary categories: efficacy, texture, experience, and formula. For more on what's involved in our reporting, check out our complete reviews process and methodology page.

Our staff and testers

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

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

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

The best hair oils might sound completely counterintuitive. If you're trying to keep your hair from looking greasy, why would you add oil to it? But today's formulas are a far cry from the heavy, greasy treatments of decades past. The right hair oil can be the difference between hair that puffs up the second you step outside and strands that stay smooth, glossy, and manageable.

Whether you're dealing with frizz, dry ends, heat damage, or simply want to add a little extra polish to your style, there's a hair oil designed for the job. Some are packed with nourishing botanical oils (like argan oil, squalane, and castor oil) that seal in moisture, while others rely on lightweight silicones to seal the cuticle, dial up the gloss, and shield hair from humidity without weighing it down.

Our Top Hair Oils

• Best Overall: Oribe Gold Lust Nourishing Hair Oil, $59
• Best for Frizz: Kérastase Gloss Absolu Glaze Drops Anti-Frizz Hair Oil, $39
• Best for Fine Hair: Gisou Honey Infused Hair Oil, $46
• Best for Protective Styles: Cécred Nourishing Hair Oil, $45

Frequently Asked QuestionsAccordionItemContainerButtonLargeChevron

• How do hair oils work?
• Which hair oil is right for me?
• When should I use hair oil?
• Meet the experts
• How we test and review products
• Our staff and testers

Best Overall: Oribe Gold Lust Nourishing Hair Oil

Save to wishlistSave to wishlist

Oribe

Gold Lust Nourishing Hair Oil

$59

Amazon

$59

Nordstrom

$59

Sephora

Allure social director Kassidy Silva applying the Oribe Gold Lust Nourishing Hair Oil.

Kassidy Silva

Why it's worth it: Oribe’s Gold Lust Nourishing Hair Oil is the ultimate indulgence for every hair type. Silky and weightless, it tackles dryness and frizz with a blend of argan and jasmine oils, plus Oribe’s Signature Complex—a mix of antioxidant-rich watermelon, lychee, and edelweiss flower extracts—to keep strands strong, hydrated, and shiny. It has a subtle sandalwood and bergamot scent that leaves hair smelling as luxe as it looks. New York City-based hairstylist, Andrew Inconstanti, calls it “liquid gold” for its instant smoothing effect, effortless shine, and color-enhancing boost. “It also smells like a high-end perfume, so your hair will smell expensive all day long,” he says.

Silva before applying the Oribe Gold Lust Nourishing Hair Oil

Kassidy Silva

Silva after applying the Oribe Gold Lust Nourishing Hair Oil

Kassidy Silva

Tester feedback from social director Kassidy Silva

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“Two pumps of the Oribe Gold Lust oil are all it takes to keep my hair shining all day long. After towel-drying my hair, I pump a quarter-size amount into my palms and work it through the ends, and run a comb through a few times to lightly distribute the product to my roots. If my hair is looking a little dull after drying, I'll add one more pump once I'm finished styling.” —Kassidy Silva, social director

More to know

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• Key ingredients: jasmine oil, argan oil, edelweiss flower, lychee
• Who it's best for: all hair types
• When to apply: on damp or dry hair
• Fragrance-free: no
• Sizes: 1.7 oz., 3.4 oz.

Best for Frizz: Kérastase Gloss Absolu Glaze Drops Anti-Frizz Hair Oil

Save to wishlistSave to wishlist

Kérastase

Gloss Absolu Glaze Drops Anti-Frizz Hair Oil

$39

Amazon

$39

Sephora

Allure senior staff writer Elizabeth Gulino applying the Kérastase Gloss Absolu Glaze Drops Anti-Frizz Hair Oil

Elizabeth Gulino

Why it's worth it: If you've long loved Kérastase's iconic Elixir Ultime, but wish it delivered an even more mirror-like, glass-hair finish, Gloss Absolu Glaze Drops is the answer. As the brand's lightest hair oil in its lineup, it swaps heavier botanical oils for a featherweight silicone blend to tame frizz and boost shine without leaving hair greasy or limp. Hyaluronic acid pulls in moisture, wild rose oil leaves hair softer, and glycolic acid smooths the hair cuticle so it reflects more light. The formula acts like an invisible raincoat against humidity—keeping hair sleek and glossy for up to four days, according to the brand.

Gulino before applying the Kérastase Gloss Absolu Glaze Drops Anti-Frizz Hair Oil

Elizabeth Gulino

Gulino after applying the Kérastase Gloss Absolu Glaze Drops Anti-Frizz Hair Oil

Elizabeth Gulino

Tester feedback from senior staff writer Elizabeth Gulino

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“I would like to personally thank whoever formulated Kérastase's Gloss Absolu line because wow, did it actually help with my frizz and dryness. The first time I used both the shampoo and conditioner was on a Friday before heading out to dinner with friends—usually, when I air dry my wavy hair, I'll add in a few curls with a curling iron to try and tame any frizz with heat. But after using Kérastase's Gloss Absolu Shampoo and Conditioner, I didn't even need to plug in any hot tools—my hair was good to go as-is. The citrus-y floral scent of the products is a major plus, too, and made my shower smell like a spa. I have a feeling I'll go through these products fairly quickly.” —Elizabeth Gulino, senior staff writer

More to know

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• Key ingredients: wild rose oil extract, silicones, hyaluronic acid, glycolic acid
• Who it's best for: everyone, especially those with dull hair
• When to apply: on damp or dry hair
• Fragrance-free: no
• Size: 1.5 oz.

Best for Protective Styles: Cécred Nourishing Hair Oil

Save to wishlistSave to wishlist

Cécred

Nourishing Hair Oil

$45

Ulta Beauty

Why we love it: Unlike hair oils that rely on silicones for slip and shine, Cécred's Nourishing Hair Oil is powered almost entirely by a blend of 13 botanical oils—including baobab, moringa, castor, black seed, and sea buckthorn—to help replenish the hair's natural lipids and reduce moisture loss. That makes it especially ideal for protective styles like braids, twists, and cornrows, for which keeping hair nourished between wash days is a priority. Because it's a true oil blend rather than an oil with a silicone base, it can also be massaged directly onto the scalp—as our tester demonstrates—to soothe dryness and keep both the scalp and the hair underneath feeling conditioned.

Allure contributor Jailynn Taylor applying the Cécred Nourishing Hair Oil

Jailynn Taylor

Taylor after applying the Cécred Nourishing Hair Oil

Jailynn Taylor

Tester feedback from contributor Jailynn Taylor

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"I've tried countless oils searching for one that nourishes my locs without causing buildup, and the Cécred Nourishing Hair Oil delivers on both fronts. Upon application, my locs feel softer and better sealed with the moisture they need to stay strong and flexible. Rather than sitting on the surface, this oil absorbs well and keeps my locs hydrated for days with a subtle sheen. I apply a few drops to my scalp and along the length of my locs between wash days, and the results are immediate: less dryness, more movement, and easier manageability. The Temple Oud fragrance is pleasant and lingers just enough without being overwhelming." —Jailynn Taylor, contributor

More to know

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• Key ingredients: baobab oil, sea buckthorn oil, bioactive keratin ferment
• Who it's best for: all hair types, especially textured hair
• When to apply: after styling
• Fragrance-free: no
• Size: 1.7 oz.

Best for Curly Hair: Chris McMillan The Glassy Smooth Hair Oil

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Chris McMillan

The Glassy Smooth Hair Oil

$58

Sephora

Allure senior commerce director Shanna Shipin applying the Chris McMillan The Glassy Smooth Hair Oil

Shanna Shipin

Why it's worth it: If you've written off hair oils because they always seem to leave your roots greasy or your hair limp, maybe the problem isn't necessarily the formula—it's how you're applying it. Chris McMillan's The Lightweight Glassy Hair Oil Mist rethinks the experience with an ultra-fine aerosol mist that evenly disperses the product throughout your hair, making it much harder to overdo than a traditional dropper or pump. The mist format is especially great for curls and textured hair, since it distributes product evenly without soaking one section or weighing down your curl pattern. It doesn't hurt that the formula is incredibly lightweight, either: Smoothing silicones team up with blackcurrant, camellia, moringa, and wheat germ oils to soften frizz and add next-level shine, while hyaluronic acid helps hair hold onto moisture so it stays sleek even when humidity rolls in.

Shipin before applying the Chris McMillan The Glassy Smooth Hair Oil

Shanna Shipin

Shipin after applying the Chris McMillan The Glassy Smooth Hair Oil

Shanna Shipin

Tester feedback from senior commerce director Shanna Shipin

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“Chris McMillan seemingly can’t miss, and the Lightweight Glassy Hair Oil Mist is the latest proof point. Frizzy hair? Gone. Heat protection? Covered. Shine? Just the right amount, and never greasy! The best part is the delivery with this hair oil: it’s a true, super-fine mist that gently anoints your strands with a halo of shine (forgive the flowery language, but the mist warrants it). It also happens to be absolutely perfect for curly hair. My hair is naturally quite dry, so I’m always fighting frizz, and scrunching out my curls or splitting strands for volume (which I love) isn’t ideal, so it feels like Chris designed this with curly girls in mind. You don’t need to rake or mess up your curls with this kind of product. Because the mist is so lightweight, it’s also going to be great for those with fine hair, and really anyone who wants a veil of shine (without any fuss). Plus the packaging is stunning; it’s a lovely, heavyweight glass bottle with an oversized top and elegant dispenser. It sits perfectly next to my perfume bottles on my vanity.” —Shanna Shipin, senior commerce director

More to know

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• Key ingredients: black currant seed oil, camellia seed oil, moringa seed oil, wheat germ oil, hyaluronic acid, dimethicone
• Who it's best for: all hair types, especially curly or textured hair
• When to apply: on damp or dry hair
• Fragrance-free: no
• Size: 3.4 oz.

Best for Fine Hair: Gisou Honey Infused Hair Oil

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Gisou

Honey Infused Hair Oil

$46

Amazon

$46

Sephora

Allure contributing commerce writer Christa Joanna Lee applying the Gisou Honey Infused Hair Oil

Christa Joanna Lee

Why it's worth it: What happens when a beekeeper marries a hairstylist? Their daughter bottles the family secret and creates Gisou’s Honey Infused Hair Oil. At the heart of the formula is the brand's proprietary Mirsalehi Honey, harvested from the family's bee garden in the Netherlands, which acts as a natural humectant to help hair attract and hold onto moisture. It’s paired with an antioxidant-rich blend of eight botanical oils—including sweet almond, coconut, argan, and passionfruit seed oils—packed with nourishing omega fatty acids to soften frizz, seal in hydration, and boost shine. Lightweight silicones finish the job by smoothing the hair cuticle, leaving hair glossy and polished without weighing down finer strands. “It's also a good one to reach for on day two or three after wash day, when the hair needs waking up rather than a full reset,” says Kenna Kennor, a hairstylist based in Brooklyn, New York.

Lee before applying the Gisou Honey Infused Hair Oil

Christa Joanna Lee

Lee after applying the Gisou Honey Infused Hair Oil

Christa Joanna Lee

Tester feedback from contributing commerce writer Christa Joanna Lee

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“If you have long hair like mine (it practically reaches my waist), a good hair oil isn't optional. I'll admit I got a little overzealous in this demo and used too much, which deflated my blowout a little more than I would've liked. But once I figured out the sweet spot—just two drops per side instead of a whole dropper full—Gisou's Honey Infused Hair Oil completely won me over. It leaves my mid-lengths and ends unbelievably soft and silky with a glossy shine, all without weighing my hair down and zero greasiness. I can't stop running my hands through my hair when I use this.” —Christa Joanna Lee, contributing commerce writer

More to know

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• Key ingredients: Mirsalehi Honey, sweet almond oil, coconut oil, argan oil, passionfruit seed oil, dimethicone
• Who it's best for: all hair types, especially dry or fine hair
• When to apply: on damp or dry hair
• Fragrance-free: no
• Sizes: 0.6 oz., 1.7 oz., 3.4 oz.

Best Pre-Wash: Fable and Mane HoliRoots Hair Oil

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Fable & Mane

HoliRoots Hair Oil

$38

Amazon

$38

Sephora

Allure commerce editor Sarah Han applying the Fable and Mane HoliRoots Hair Oil

Sarah Han

Why it's worth it: Inspired by Ayurvedic hair oiling, a 5,000-year-old practice in India that involves massaging warm, herb-infused oils into the scalp and strands to nourish, Fable and Mane’s HoliRoots Hair Oil is designed to be worked into the scalp section by section before your shower. Leave it on for at least five minutes—or use it as an overnight treatment—for stronger roots, reduced breakage, boosted circulation, and deeply hydrated, healthy-looking hair. Key oils like castor, olive fruit, jojoba, grapeseed, and sesame, along with Ayurveda classics like ashwagandha and amla (which are known to stimulate keratin production), work together to nourish strands and calm the scalp. Rest assured: Despite being packed with oils, you won’t find any residue in your scalp post-shampoo. “It absorbs beautifully, leaving fine or damaged hair feeling deeply resilient, denser, and soft,” says Inconstanti.

Han before applying the Fable and Mane HoliRoots Hair Oil

Sarah Han

Han after applying the Fable and Mane HoliRoots Hair Oil

Sarah Han

Tester feedback from commerce editor Sarah Han

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“I’ve been using this product pretty consistently for two years, applying about three half-droppers of product to three sections of my scalp for at least 15 minutes before I hop into the shower. I'll occasionally use a scalp massager to work the product more deeply, but my fingers do the trick, too. I deal with a dry, itchy scalp—probably because I don't wash my hair enough; I wholly admit it! I'm the problem!—and I find that this formula makes a world of difference in calming said irritation. Thank you, root extracts. The oil rinses away swiftly down the drain, and my scalp always feels lighter and more balanced post-shampoo.” —Sarah Han, commerce editor

More to know

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• Key ingredients: ashwagandha, amla, castor, olive fruit, jojoba, grape seed, and sesame oils
• Who it's best for: people with dry, broken strands looking to boost growth
• When to apply: on dry hair as a pre-shampoo treatment
• Fragrance-free: no
• Size: 1.8 oz.

Best for Flat Hair: LolaVie Lightweight Hair Oil

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LolaVie

Lightweight Hair Oil

$33

Amazon

$33

Ulta Beauty

$33

Credo Beauty

Former Allure senior news editor Nicola Dall’Asen applying the LolaVie Lightweight Hair Oil

Nicola Dall'Asen

Why it's worth it: Pulling off the (near) impossible, LolaVie’s Lightweight Hair Oil leaves hair with a patent-like shine without flattening your meticulously styled blowout. The dilemma with most hair oils is that they have at least some weight, which can lead to a deflated style, especially if you have naturally fine, thin, or otherwise flat hair. But LolaVie’s nourishing formula “is so fluid and fast-absorbing that you won’t even feel it, but you'll definitely see the brilliant shine,” says Inconstanti. Coconut-derived emollients and squalane deliver that glossy finish, while sunflower and apricot kernel oils soften frizz and seal in moisture. Antioxidant-rich chlorella, chia seed, and olive leaf extracts protect hair from environmental stressors, and a blend of quinoa, chickpea, and lentil extracts helps strengthen strands. Considering it's Jennifer Aniston's hair-care brand, salon-worthy results were pretty much a given.

Dall’Asen before applying the LolaVie Lightweight Hair Oil

Nicola Dall'Asen

Dall’Asen after applying the LolaVie Lightweight Hair Oil

Nicola Dall'Asen

Tester feedback from former senior news editor Nicola Dall’Asen

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“Short, fine hair like mine and oils don't always get along, but I never have to worry about that with LolaVie's Lightweight Hair Oil—hell, its distinguishing factor is right there in the name. Just a few drops of this keratin-based oil give my hair the hydration and shine it desperately needs, and thankfully without that heavy, greasy feeling.” —Nicola Dall’Asen, former senior news editor

More to know

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• Key ingredients: coconut derivatives, squalane, sunflower seed oil, olive leaf extract, chlorella vulgaris (algae) extract, chia seed extract, bamboo extract
• Who it's best for: people who lack volume
• When to apply: after towel-drying and/or after styling
• Fragrance-free: no
• Size: 1.5 oz.

Best for Damaged Hair: Virtue Healing Oil

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Virtue

Healing Oil

$46

Amazon

$46

Nordstrom

$46

Bluemercury

Lee applying the Virtue Healing Oil

Christa Joanna Lee

Why it's worth it: Almost every hair oil can boost shine and zap frizz, but what sets Virtue’s Healing Oil apart is that it repairs damage, too. It's the only hair oil formulated with a human hair-identical protein (Alpha Keratin 60ku) that fills in cracks along the hair cuticle to reinforce weakened strands. “It doesn’t fake smoothness; it gives compromised hair what it really needs,” says Kennor. The texture also stands out: Instead of feeling overly rich or greasy, it relies on weightless silicones along with marula, Kalahari melon seed, and coconut oils for silky slip and glossy shine without weighing hair down.

Because Alpha Keratin 60ku is a water-loving protein suspended in an oil base, you'll need to give the bottle a shake before each use to blend everything together and activate the formula. “A little goes a long way—you’ll feel the difference immediately in how it brushes and how it takes a style,” he says.

Lee before applying the Virtue Healing Oil

Christa Joanna Lee

Lee after applying the Virtue Healing Oil

Christa Joanna Lee

Tester feedback from Lee

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“I'm on my third bottle of Virtue's Healing Oil—which really isn't something I can say about many beauty products. I only get my hair cut once or twice a year (zero trims in between) because I'm fiercely loyal to my stylist, who happens to be more than an hour away, so my styling products have to pick up the slack. My biggest battle is dry, damaged ends from frequent heat styling, and while I know nothing can truly glue split ends back together, this oil makes them look and feel so much healthier. My hair feels silkier, and I swear it's helped keep my ends from becoming even more prone to breakage between salon visits.” —Lee, contributing commerce writer

More to know

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• Key ingredients: Alpha Keratin 60ku, marula oil, Kalahari melon seed oil, coconut oil, silicones
• Hair it's best for: dry, damaged, heat-styled, or chemically processed hair
• When to apply: on damp or dry hair
• Fragrance-free: no
• Sizes: 1.7 oz., 0.67 oz.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do hair oils work?

Unlike hair masks and leave-in conditioners, which primarily condition and replenish moisture, hair oils are formulated to seal everything in. "Hair oils help smooth the hair cuticle and reduce styling breakage while minimizing frizz," Cincinnati-based cosmetic chemist Kelly Dobos says. However, it isn't the oil smoothing the cuticle on its own. "Most hair 'oils' on the market actually contain very little oil; they're primarily made from siloxanes and hydrocarbons,” explains Dobos. These ingredients, also known as silicones and mineral oils, respectively, are added to many hair oils because some of the lipids in natural oils can weigh hair down and cause fine hair to look greasy. Therefore, products with a high oil concentration are better on thick, textured, or coily hair, Dobos says.

Which hair oil is right for me?

"Rather than choosing an oil for your hair type, you should consider what you need the oil to do for your hair," says Sophia Emmanuel, a hairstylist in New York City. For example, if you're looking to enhance shine and softness, olive, carrot, and jojoba oils, all of which act as moisture-sealing emollients, are helpful. On the other hand, avid users of hot tools like blow-dryers or straighteners should reach for silicone-infused products to protect the hair's cuticle. Keep in mind, however, that silicone has long-term effects. New York City-based board-certified dermatologist Joshua Zeichner, MD, tells Allure, "Continued use of silicones over time can weigh down the hair, so it's important to regularly wash hair to prevent any buildup."

When should I use hair oil?

Hair oils can have varied application directions, so be sure to read the bottle before you start your treatment. While many hair oils are applied to dry or damp hair on the mid-lengths and ends for a smooth finish, others are meant to be applied pre-wash. "The main benefit of pre-wash oils is that of an emollient, which provides a coating over the hair shaft, which seals the cuticle and traps moisture inside," Vladyslava Doktor, MD, a board-certified dermatologist in Boston, told Allure. Apply your pre-wash oil from mid-lengths to ends and to your scalp if it feels dry. Gently massage it in, let it sit for at least 10 minutes (or however long the instructions state) or overnight, and then shampoo and condition the hair. For extra absorption, you can wrap your strands in a warm towel or a shower cap while the oil sits.

Meet the experts

• Kelly Dobos, a cosmetic chemist based in Cincinnati
• Vladyslava Doktor, MD, a board-certified dermatologist and founder of Skin Center Boston based in Boston
• Sophia Emmanuel, a hairstylist at Crown Worthy based in New York City
• Andrew Inconstanti, a hairstylist at Umi Salon based in New York City
• Kenna Kennor, a hairstylist and founder of Kennaland based in Brooklyn, New York
• Joshua Zeichner, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in New York City

How we test and review products

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

For our review of the best hair oils, we enlisted the help of multiple editors, writers, contributors, professional stylists, cosmetic chemists, and board-certified dermatologists—who spoke about how to choose a hair oil and its range of benefits, depending on hair type, texture, hair concerns, and desired outcome. Testers considered performance across three primary categories: efficacy, formula, and application. For more on what's involved in our reporting, check out our complete reviews process and methodology page.

Our staff and testers

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

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

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

Wary of raccoon eyes? The best tubing mascaras will put your mind at ease. Unlike traditional mascaras that can transfer, smudge, and flake throughout the day, “tubing mascaras are known for their excellent long-wearing formulas and ability to resist flaking and smudging that can occur due to oily sebum on the eyelids or watery eyes,” says Cincinnati-based cosmetic chemist Kelly Dobos. How? They contain film-forming polymers, which Dobos says act like a protective sleeve around each lash, resulting in higher resistance to the elements and increased durability. And we’ve saved the best part for last: Despite their staying power, tubing mascaras are refreshingly easy to remove: With a wash of warm water and gentle pressure, these mascaras slide off in soft, tube-like pieces—no cleansing oil or micellar water needed.

Our Top Tubing Mascaras

• Best Overall: Maybelline New York Lash Sensational Sky Tubes Tubing Mascara, $14
• Best for Straight Lashes: Kulfi Beauty Badi Lash Mascara, $26
• Best Volumizing: Charlotte Tilbury Exagger-Eyes Volume Mascara, $29
• Best Waterproof: Caliray Come Hell or High Water 24-Hour Tubing Mascara, $25
• Best Lifting: Tarte Tartelette Tubing Mascara, $28
• Best Curling: Urban Decay Tube Job Lash Augmenting Tubing Mascara, $25

Frequently Asked QuestionsAccordionItemContainerButtonLargeChevron

• How is tubing mascara different from regular mascara?
• How should I choose a tubing mascara?
• Are there any downsides to tubing mascara?
• Meet the experts
• How we test and review products
• Our staff and testers

Read on for the best tubing mascaras for creating doe-eyed, wispy, and dramatic looks alike, as selected by Allure editors and makeup experts.

Best Overall: Maybelline New York Lash Sensational Sky Tubes Tubing Mascara

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Maybelline New York

Lash Sensational Sky Tubes Tubing Mascara

$14 $11 (21% off)

Amazon

$14

Ulta Beauty

Allure social media director Kassidy Silva applying the Maybelline New York Lash Sensational Sky Tubes Tubing Mascara

Kassidy Silva

Why it’s worth it: Maybelline New York’s Lash Sensation Sky Tubes sets a high standard (pun intended) with its name—one that it easily meets, delivering the kind of dramatic length that looks like it could have come right off a 1960s magazine cover. The brush on this Best of Beauty winner features pyramid-shaped bristles with broader bases and pointed tips, designed to grip and coat each lash. Meanwhile, the round ball on the end grabs onto the tiny lashes on the inner and outer corners so that even the babiest of lashes get a major boost. The formula is infused with shea butter and castor oil (a top-tier conditioning duo if there ever was one) and dries down fast to a flake-free finish. When up against cold water (like rain), it’s waterproof, but when you want to take it off, it’ll melt right away with a little warm water.

Silva before applying the Maybelline New York Lash Sensational Sky Tubes Tubing Mascara

Kassidy Silva

Allure beauty director Sarah Kinonen before applying the Maybelline New York Lash Sensational Sky Tubes Tubing Mascara

Sarah Kinonen

Silva after applying the Maybelline New York Lash Sensational Sky Tubes Tubing Mascara

Kassidy Silva

Kinonen after applying the Maybelline New York Lash Sensational Sky Tubes Tubing Mascara

Sarah Kinonen

Tester feedback from social director Kassidy Silva

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“There is no category that I cycle through testers as quickly as mascaras. Hate the brush shape, product is a little clumpy, not long lasting, ugly tube, you name it, and I’m nitpicking it from top to bottom. I have big hooded eyes with average-length lashes, so I’m looking for something that lengthens to help them stand out, doesn’t smudge since I refuse to reapply during the day, and is at a low price point since it needs to be replaced often. The Maybelline Sky High Tubing Mascara is the fifth mascara I’ve liked out of the three to four dozen I’ve tested in two years that checks all my boxes. I apply two coats of the mascara, working it through my lashes after curling with the Shu Uemera lash curler. After applying to the top lash, I’ll get the corner, which is easy with the tip of the brush to reach the inner corner and outer edge. I don’t apply it to my bottom lashes regularly but haven’t had issues on the rare occasion that I do. I find that it stays in place for around 12 hours no matter the weather conditions and slips off at the end of the day with a makeup wipe or gentle cleanser. Shout out to Allure beauty director Sarah Kinonen for this incredible rec!” —Kassidy Silva, social director

Tester feedback from beauty director Sarah Kinonen

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“As a tubing mascara devotee, I'm so happy Maybelline finally jumped on the bandwagon! The new Sky Tubes formula is lightweight enough to layer without clumping (a feat in itself!), lengthens the stubbiest of lashes (mine!), and removes with just water—without mess (a miracle!). After the first use, it instantly became an everyday makeup bag staple.” —Sarah Kinonen, beauty director

More to know

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• Key ingredients: shea butter, castor oil
• Shades: 1

Best for Straight Lashes: Kulfi Beauty Badi Lash Mascara

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Kulfi Beauty

Badi Lash Mascara

$26

Sephora

$26

Kulfi Beauty

Former Allure content director Kara McGrath applying Kulfi’s Badi Lash Mascara

Kara McGrath

Why it's worth it: If you’ve got straight lashes, Kulfi’s 2025 Allure Beauty Award-winning Badi Lash Mascara is your girl. Made with heavy, straight South Asian lashes in mind, it’s designed to lift even the most stubborn wisps. Nothing makes ‘diving-board lashes’ worse than a clumpy, crusty formula—and thankfully, this one’s the opposite. Expect clean separation and lift thanks to the unique ball-tip applicator, which features tiny spikes that grab and comb through even the tiniest inner lashes. The formula features castor seed oil, rambutan extract, and a tripeptide complex to condition the lashes while softening and strengthening them over time.

McGrath before applying Kulfi’s Badi Lash Mascara

Kara McGrath

McGrath after applying Kulfi’s Badi Lash Mascara

Kara McGrath

Tester feedback from former content director Kara McGrath

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"The worst part of wearing mascara is taking it off, which is why I am forever in favor of easier-to-remove tubing formulas. Kulfi's version adds the perfect amount of volume for everyday looks and doesn't leave flecks on your face come lunchtime. I love the spiky tip at the end of the brush that helps coat lashes at the inner and outer corners." —Kara McGrath, former content director

More to know

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• Key ingredients: castor seed oil, rambutan extract, tripeptide complex
• Shades: 1

Best Volumizing: Charlotte Tilbury Exagger-Eyes Volume Mascara

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Charlotte Tilbury

Exagger-eyes Volume Mascara

$29

Ulta Beauty

Allure senior news editor Nicola Dall’Asen applying the Charlotte Tilbury Exagger-eyes Volume Mascara

Nicola Dall'Asen

Why it’s worth it: When it comes to Charlotte Tilbury’s formulas, it’s all about going big or going home—and the Exagger-Eyes Volume Mascara fully commits. Its ultra-curved brush features fine, laser-cut fiber bristles that are thicker on one side and thinner on the other, making it easy to grab and define every lash and add extra volume. Paired with lash-wrapping technology—think plumping polymers that coat each lash—the result is instant, fluttery volume from root to tip in just one coat. The formula also includes jojoba wax to condition lashes so they look full without feeling brittle. Our tip: Press the inner curve of the brush into the roots and pull upward, then flip to the outer curve and gently wiggle side to side to lift and separate.

Dall’Asen before applying the Charlotte Tilbury Exagger-eyes Volume Mascara

Nicola Dall'Asen

Dall’Asen after applying the Charlotte Tilbury Exagger-eyes Volume Mascara

Nicola Dall'Asen

Tester feedback from former senior news editor Nicola Dall’Asen

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“I'm blessed in the lash department, so it's not often I'm reaching for a heavy-duty mascara—but when I need to pull out the big guns (I'm appearing on camera, attending a special event, or it's a fancy date night), I only reach for Charlotte Tilbury's Exagger-eyes tubing mascara. You can tell by just a glance at its heavily coated, curved, dense applicator that this stuff does not fuck around. In fact, just one pass of this stuff is so dramatic, I'll sometimes wipe a bit of the product off the brush before I use my go-to mascara technique (blinking in front of the brush and wiggling the wand as I go). Whether I do or don't, what I get every time is a lash long and fluttery enough that I could set sail on it. Who needs falsies, anyway?” —Nicola Dall’Asen, former senior news editor

More to know

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• Key ingredients: Black Wrap tech, jojoba waxes
• Shades: 1

Best Waterproof: Caliray Come Hell or High Water 24-Hour Tubing Mascara

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Caliray

Come Hell or High Water Volumizing Tubing Mascara

$24

Sephora

$24

Caliray

Allure commerce market editor Sarah Hoffmann applying the Caliray Come Hell or High Water 24-Hour Tubing Mascara

Sarah Hoffmann

Why it's worth it: Yet another beloved Best of Beauty Award winner, Caliray's Come Hell or High Water Volumizing Tubing Mascara is formulated with conditioning argan oil to give your lashes a dose of nourishing, softening love, while film-forming tubing ingredients like acrylates copolymer provide a smudge-proof finish. The brand's dense, fluffy "teddy bear brush" allows for comprehensive coverage with every flick of your wrist. And, if you have shorter lashes, this thicker brush won’t cause any smudgeiness—it actually makes them look bolder, longer, and more curled. It's long-wearing, waterproof, and it comes in a deep black and natural brown—everything you could hope for in an everyday mascara.

Hoffmann before using the Caliray Come Hell or High Water 24-Hour Tubing Mascara

Hoffmann after using the Caliray Come Hell or High Water 24-Hour Tubing Mascara

Tester feedback from commerce market editor Sarah Hoffmann

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"To be honest, I'm not typically the tubing mascara type. I love to gloop and glob my mascara on for maximum volume, and tubing formulas tend more towards a wispy, separated vibe that doesn't usually give me the drama I crave. When I first got a tube of Caliray's Come Hell or High Water Mascara, I didn't even realize it was tubing, which is probably why I went in with such an open mind and discovered a great formula I might have avoided if I'd read the fine print.

It has a nice amount of stickiness to it, which really helps hold a curl in place, and I like to build it up close to my lash line to make my lashes look thicker (plus a quick tight line, of course). It's definitely a lengthening formula—I'd still probably reach for YSL Lash Clash for true dramatic lashes—but it also delivers a good amount of volume and wild staying power that's lovely for an everyday mascara." —Sarah Hoffmann, commerce market editor

More to know

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• Key ingredients: argan oil, acrylates copolymer, carnauba wax, synthetic wax
• Shades: 2

Best Lifting: Tarte Tartelette Tubing Mascara

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Tarte

Tartelette Tubing Mascara

$28

Amazon

$28

Ulta Beauty

$28

Revolve

Allure. commerce editor Sarah Han applying the Tarte Tartelette Tubing Mascara

Sarah Han

Why it's worth it: Tarte's Tartelette Tubing Mascara is a tried-and-true editor fave that's perfect for days when we want a more natural look. (Looking for more drama? Tartelette XL is infused with peptides for noticeably more volume—and it's a Best of Beauty Award winner!) It fends off flakes and resists dryness with a blend of shea butter, castor oil, and carnauba wax, making lashes look lifted, longer, and softer. The wand is equipped with hundreds of tiny bristles, enabling you to reach under your lash line for a major lift and volume. Each lash is wrapped in a water-resistant veil of jet-black (or brown) color, so you can swipe and go without worrying about midday smudging.

Han before applying the Tarte Tartelette Tubing Mascara

Sarah Han

Han after applying the Tarte Tartelette Tubing Mascara

Sarah Han

Tester feedback from commerce editor Sarah Han

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"One thing about me: I have the babiest lashes that need a lot of coaxing to reach their full potential. Tarte's original Tartelette mascara has been a regular in my rotation for years. The dense bristles latch onto my lashes right away and lift each wisp for an eye-opening effect. I hate mascaras that cause my lashes to clump, but this one doesn't do that! One small qualm: Some of the mascara smudges onto my eyelids during application (not sure if it's the wand or user error), but that's nothing some micellar water can't fix in seconds." —Sarah Han, commerce editor

More to know

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• Key ingredients: shea butter, castor oil, glycerin
• Shades: 2

Best Curling: Urban Decay Tube Job Lash Augmenting Tubing Mascara

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Urban Decay

Tube Job Lash Augmenting Tubing Mascara

$25

Amazon

$25

Ulta Beauty

$25

Sephora

Why it’s worth it: You know that moment when your mascara looks incredible for about 10 minutes—only for your lashes to slowly surrender and fall flat? That’s not an issue with Urban Decay’s Tube Job. From the first swipe, it delivers a serious lift and curl that actually stays put all day. The trick is in the technique: Hold the wand at the tips of your lashes for five seconds after each swipe to help set the curl in place. The tubing formula comes in five playful shades, from red-brown to blonde, all of which resist smudging and won’t leave you with dreaded raccoon eyes by hour six. Instead, it conditions lashes with glycerin, castor oil, and shea butter for softness, protection, and healthier-looking lashes, no added lash serum required.

Allure executive beauty director Jenny Bailly before applying the Urban Decay Tube Job

Jenny Bailly

Bailly after applying the Urban Decay Tube Job

Jenny Bailly

Tester feedback from executive beauty director Jenny Bailly

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“Over the last year, I have become a total convert to tubing mascaras. I don't know if it's my aging skin or maybe an increasing laziness about removing eye makeup thoroughly, but regular mascaras were always leaving dark circles under my eyes. Urban Decay's Tube Job is one of my recent favorites. Two coats leave my lashes long and separated, which is how I like them, with no clumps (unless that second coat starts to turn into a third). Some tubing mascaras go so wet that you have to be careful about smearing right after application—this one has a thin consistency but a very manageable level of wetness and sets quickly. With warm water, it comes off in clean, black tubes, leaving zero pigment behind. I've only used the black but it also comes in brown and, more notably, a dark blonde taupe and auburn red. There's also a platinum shade, which I can't wrap my head around, but it's gotten its share of social media attention and is certainly a look.” —Jenny Bailly, executive beauty director

More to know

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• Key ingredients: shea butter, glycerin, castor oil
• Shades: 5

Best Natural-Looking: Merit Clean Volume Volumizing Tubing Mascara

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Merit

Clean Volume Volumizing Tubing Mascara

$28

Sephora

$28

Merit

Kinonen applying the Merit Clean Volume Volumizing Tubing Mascara

Sarah Kinonen

Why it’s worth it: “Sophisticated” might not be a word one commonly associates with mascara, but it feels the most fitting for Merit’s Clean Volume Volumizing Tubing Mascara—and not just because of the chic black packaging with silver details. The thin, precise wand lengthens and separates the lashes as cleanly as possible—no clumps, smudges, or flakes, just lashes that sit at the perfect intersection of length, volume, and curl. It achieves this through a proprietary blend of tubing film-formers and plant-derived rice bran wax for lengthening, as well as shea butter and glycerin to soften and condition each hair. The brush is fluffy and full, but not too big, meaning even those with shorter lashes can reach and coat them all.

Kinonen before applying the Merit Clean Volume Volumizing Tubing Mascara

Sarah Kinonen

Kinonen after applying the Merit Clean Volume Volumizing Tubing Mascara

Sarah Kinonen

Tester feedback from Kinonen

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“At this point, I've fully converted to tubing mascaras. I haven't picked up a traditional formula in years, and after trying (and quickly falling in love with) Merit's new take on tubing, I will quite literally never go back. It's light but buildable, creates the fluffiest, natural-looking lashes, and adds a touch of length—all without a single smudge or smear. I like the short and stubby wand makes it super easy to dig deep into the lash line to create that added bit of bulk, again, without any smudging…or clumping. And while all it takes is some warm water to remove, it still has some staying power. It didn't budge through a super-sweaty summer baseball game, or on the even sweatier walk to commute home.” —Sarah Kinonen, beauty director

More to know

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• Key ingredients: tubing film-formers, plant-derived rice bran wax, shea butter, glycerin
• Shades: 2

Best Drugstore: Essence Lash Without Limits Tubing Mascara

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Essence

Lash Without Limits Tubing Mascara

$5

Amazon

$5

Ulta Beauty

Allure senior staff writer Elizabeth Gulino applying the Essence Lash Without Limits Tubing Mascara

Elizabeth Gulino

Why it’s worth it: From the brand that gave us the ultimate IYKYK affordable mascara (Lash Princess), Essence’s Lash Without Limits Tubing Mascara has a slim, flexible elastomer brush that can reach every little lash and a formula designed for layering. While the focus is on length, this mascara is no slouch when it comes to adding volume, either; and since it is so layerable, it’s easy to achieve a natural, subtle look, intentionally clumpy spider-lash drama, and everything in between. It’s available in black and brown shades, and while it doesn’t flake or smudge, keep in mind that this one isn’t waterproof. So any water—warm or cold—will melt it right away.

Gulino before applying the Essence Lash Without Limits Tubing Mascara

Elizabeth Gulino

Gulino after applying the Essence Lash Without Limits Tubing Mascara

Elizabeth Gulino

Tester feedback from senior staff writer Elizabeth Gulino

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“I'm a tubing truther, which means that it's the only mascara I wear—for some reason, all other formulas end up crumbling on my face, resulting in makeup all along my lower lash line. Tragic! I added Essence Makeup's tubing version to my lineup recently and am very impressed. It dries down quickly, mitigating any smudge, and still makes my lashes look long and luscious after only a couple of coats. It actually tubes well, too, which means just water is needed for its removal.” —Elizabeth Gulino, senior staff writer

More to know

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• Key ingredients: acrylates/​athylhexyl acrylate copolymer, carnauba wax
• Shades: 2

Best for Short Lashes: Hourglass Unlocked Instant Extensions Mascara

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Hourglass

Unlocked Instant Extensions Mascara

$34

Amazon

$34

Nordstrom

$34

Ulta Beauty

Allure senior commerce director Shanna Shipin applying Hourglass Unlocked Instant Extensions Mascara

Shanna Shipin

Why it’s worth it: If you classify your lashes as “little nubs,” don’t worry—Hourglass Unlocked Instant Extensions Mascara is here to help. It delivers the look of falsies (minus any tackiness) without the weight, thanks to an ultra-light formula that skirts clumping. The cone-shaped brush fans out the lashes and adds length and lift in a single coat; once the mascara sets, it leaves lashes smudge- and flake-free all day. And though it’s subtle at first, Unlocked is super buildable, so you can layer and lengthen to your heart’s content.

Shipin before applying Hourglass Unlocked Instant Extensions Mascara

Shanna Shipin

Shipin after applying Hourglass Unlocked Instant Extensions Mascara

Shanna Shipin

Tester feedback from senior commerce director Shanna Shipin

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"I have the most stubborn lashes: They're short, straight, thick, and refuse to hold a curl. I also have super sensitive eyes and rarely find a mascara that doesn't make my eyeballs sting or get watery immediately after application. The Hourglass Unlocked mascara is absolutely heaven-sent for me—it, as the name suggests, makes it appear like I instantly have lash extensions, but even better for me is how it wears. It's weightless, comfortable, and does not budge—until you want it to. This is the easiest mascara I've ever taken off. It slips (truly slips, like silk!) off with water!" —Shanna Shipin, senior commerce director

More to know

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• Key ingredients: glycerin
• Shades: 1

Best for Sensitive Eyes: MAC Extended Play Gigablack Lash Mascara

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MAC Cosmetics

Extended Play Gigablack Lash Mascara

$28

Nordstrom

$28

Sephora

$28

Ulta Beauty

Why it’s worth it: MAC’s Extended Play Gigablack Lash Mascara is about as “free of” as it gets—free of parabens, free of formaldehydes, and (almost) free of synthetic fragrance, with less than 1% included. As New York City-based makeup artist Kat Dorn notes, that makes it a great option for those with sensitive eyes, which can easily get itchy, dry, or watery from mascara. But it’s not like you’ll be sacrificing your style for comfort: Dorn also praises its small, slender brush, which grabs and lifts even super-short lashes, and the pigmented, inky-black formula. Wear it up to 16 hours smudge-free, and wash it right off with warm water—no harsh tugging needed—when you’re done.

More to know

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• Key ingredients: acrylates/​athylhexyl acrylate copolymer, carnauba wax
• Shades: 1

Frequently Asked Questions

How is tubing mascara different from regular mascara?

While there is plenty of overlap between the ingredients in tubing mascara and regular mascara, there are also crucial differences, the main one being the former’s ability to wrap around lashes, Dobos explains. "The overall ingredient list for a tubing mascara might resemble a traditional mascara emulsion, with traditional waxes and emulsifiers, but polymers are necessary to form a 'tube' around each lash," she explains. "The polymers have just enough adhesion to the lashes to hold them in place until you wiggle the tubes free with gentle pressure for removal."

Tubing mascaras also tend to be easier to take off. Instead of rigorously wiping your eyes with makeup remover or thoroughly massaging mascara away with cleansing oil, the polymer-formed tubes slide off with warm water and gentle pressure. While waterproof mascara may offer comparable staying power, it can require a full-force scrub-fest to remove—and even worse, it often claims a few lashes as collateral.

How should I choose a tubing mascara?

When choosing a tubing mascara, check the ingredients list for key players. "If you're looking for more volume, ingredients like silica microspheres will help fatten the appearance of lashes and allow for a smooth application," Dobos explains. "And tiny rayon fibers can bring additional lengthening."

You should also keep your lash goals in mind: Dorn says to consider the color, the type of brush used to apply the product, and the formula. For example, if your goal is a more natural look, try a brown mascara. Conversely, “I always love a black mascara for most big events, because this will stand out the most in photos and darken the lashes so they are more prominent,” she says.

A thinner, comb-like brush will be better for separation and clump-prevention, and will also be easier to use on bottom lashes; bigger brushes with more bristles can provide more volume (“but personally, I find these clump more often,” she notes). Wetter formulas “can really lengthen the lash and separate them easier,” says Dorn, while a quick-drying formula might clump a bit more, “but will hold a curl in the lash very well,” she says.

And pro tip: If you love a formula but find the brush just isn’t cutting it, “use a clean mascara wand to brush through the lashes as soon as you apply the mascara,” Dorn advises.

Are there any downsides to tubing mascara?

Tubing mascaras might not provide as much curl as they do length, volume, and separation, according to Dorn; to get around this, she recommends curling your lashes a few times before you put on the mascara and then coating the lashes. Additionally, she says that some find they don’t layer as well as traditional mascaras. (This makes sense; a lash can only take so many tubes.)

Meet the experts

• Kelly Dobos, a cosmetic chemist based in Cincinnati, Ohio
• Kat Dorn, a makeup artist based in New York City

How we test and review products

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

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

Our staff and testers

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

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

Complete the rest of your makeup bag with these Allure editor-approved picks:

• 9 Best Eye Shadows for Mature Skin That Won’t Settle Into Fine Lines
• 9 Best BB Creams for a Natural, Skin-Like Finish
• 6 Best Blurring Primers to Give Skin a Soft-Focus Finish

Adobe StockSave StorySave this storySave StorySave this story

We treat viral products with a healthy dose of skepticism, but some experts say the best showerhead filters can actually make a meaningful difference in your routine. Why? It’s not uncommon for your local water supply to contain rust, sediment, chlorine, or an excess of minerals like calcium and magnesium. While these so-called contaminants don’t make the water dangerous to drink, they can make it harder (hence the term “hard water”) on your skin and hair, explains Omer Ibrahim, MD, a Chicago-based board-certified dermatologist. Over time, they can contribute to dullness, dryness, irritation, and itchiness. People with sensitive or extra dry skin, eczema, or rosacea may feel these effects more acutely, says Debra Luftman, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in California.

Installing a showerhead filter, many of which use materials like activated carbon and calcium sulfite to remove contaminants from water, can alleviate some of those issues. “Patients sometimes report that their skin feels less tight and their hair appears softer after switching to a quality filter,” says Dara Spearman, MD, a board-certified dermatologist in Fort Wayne, Indiana.

Our Top Showerhead Filters

• Best Overall: Jolie Filtered Showerhead, $169
• Best Bath Tub Filter: Canopy Baby Bath Tub Filter, $89
• Best Universal Filter: AquaBliss SF100 Daily Revitalize Shower Filter, $37
• Best Handheld Showerhead: Aquasana Showerhead Filter, $100
• Best for Aromatherapy: Canopy Filtered Showerhead, $150
• Best Budget: Sprite Slim-Line Shower Head Filter, $28

Frequently Asked QuestionsAccordionItemContainerButtonLargeChevron

• How does hard water affect my skin and hair?
• How does a filtered showerhead benefit my skin and hair?
• Are there any shower water filters that actually work?
• What are the disadvantages of shower filters?
• Meet the experts
• How we test and review products
• Our staff and testers

Pause for the aforementioned skepticism: The science on the efficacy of showerhead filters is still limited, and your results will largely depend on the content of your area’s water supply, but showerhead filters can potentially help alleviate dry skin and brittle hair—all while making your “everything showers” feel a little more special. Below, we tapped experts and editors to share which filtered showerheads are worth trying.

Best Overall: Jolie Filtered Showerhead

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Jolie

Filtered Showerhead

$169

Amazon

$169

Ulta Beauty

$169

Revolve

Why we love it: With its comprehensive filter and intentional design, Jolie’s Filtered Showerhead is well worth the investment and hype, according to Dr. Ibrahim. “While this one is on the pricier side, it is a full filter system with an aesthetically pleasing showerhead,” he says. (It comes in four chic colors, a.k.a. no eyesores here.) Setup is easy-breezy, too: Remove your existing showerhead and screw on the Jolie in its place. You should be able to remove and replace the showerheads by hand, but the included wrench comes in handy if you need to loosen or tighten any pipe threads along the way (and the included plumber’s tape can further seal off the pipe connections to prevent leaks). Once it’s in place, the filter will improve your water quality and keep the water pressure strong.

Plus, Dr. Spearman appreciates the brand’s transparency around its filtration system. Jolie utilizes KDF-55 (a type of copper-zinc alloy filter) and calcium sulfite to minimize levels of chlorine, heavy metals, and minerals in your shower water for up to 90 days. After that, you can just swap in a new filter for $38 a pop—or opt for a subscription on Jolie’s website that brings the cost to $35 per filter.

More to know

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• Type of filter: KDF-55, calcium sulfite
• Notable features: easy, universal installation
• Set includes: showerhead, replacement filter, wrench, plumber’s tape
• How long it lasts: 3 months

Best Bathtub Filter: Canopy Baby Bath Tub Filter

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Canopy

Baby Bath Tub Filter

$89

Amazon

$89

Nordstrom

Why we love it: Whether you’re gearing up for tub time with your little one or you’re more of a bath person yourself, Canopy’s Baby Bath Tub Filter will make your next soak more comfortable. It’s made to filter out chlorine and particles that can cause redness, flaky skin, and overall irritation, but it’s the filter’s nice-to-have features that really make it stand out. Its built-in temperature indicator changes color so you know when the water is safe for baby’s skin, and its spout cover prevents accidental bumps—which contributing commerce editor Deanna Pai says is a huge bonus. (No ouchies here!) While Pai doesn't have a hard-water issue, she saw no harm in eliminating any water-quality-related issues since her older daughter has eczema. “I’ve noticed that my younger baby's skin is smooth and soft post-bath, even before I slather her in lotion,” she says. “No sign of eczema in the baby so far, and while I can’t definitively credit the filter, I appreciate the unsung work that it might be doing!”

The filter also installs without any finicky tools: First, slide one of the included attachment bands over your faucet, then follow with the filter itself. Press it into place on the band, and you’re good to go—all you need is your trusty rubber duck.

More to know

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• Type of filter: activated carbon, calcium sulfite, copper-zinc
• Notable features: dishwasher-safe parts, temperature indicator
• Set includes: bath tub filter, filter cartridge, 2 attachment bands
• How long it lasts: 3 months

Best Universal Filter: AquaBliss SF100 Daily Revitalize Shower Filter

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AquaBliss

SF100 Daily Revitalize Shower Filter

$37

Amazon

$37

Walmart

Why we love it: Don’t want to update to a new showerhead? You don’t have to with the AquaBliss Daily Revitalize Shower Filter. This teensy addition to your shower setup removes metal and sediment buildup floating in your water with a comprehensive, layered filtration system. But it isn’t all about what it takes out: This filter also infuses your shower water with vitamin C to help reduce chlorine and boost your skin and hair’s radiance, so it’s a preventative and proactive step in one sleek gadget. It also has a universal fit that works with any showerhead, including rain showers, which is a major plus for Dr. Spearman. She also recommends AquaBliss for its replacement filter subscriptions (one less task to remember!).

More to know

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• Type of filter: sand, stainless steel mesh, cotton, calcium sulfite, Redox media (copper-zinc alloy), activated carbon
• Notable features: vitamin C infusion
• Set includes: filter housing, filter cartridge, 2 screened washers, adapter, plumber’s tape, 2 replacement seals
• How long it lasts: 4 to 6 months, depending on usage frequency

Best Handheld Showerhead: Aquasana Handheld Showerhead Filter

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Aquasana

Handheld Showerhead Filter

$100

Amazon

$119

Walmart

Why we love it: Dr. Luftman highly recommends Aquasana’s line of filters for their ease of use and efficient chlorine filtration. Even though the Handheld Showerhead Filter has a few additional components, its setup is still pretty straightforward: The filter goes onto the shower pipe first, and the brand recommends flushing it with water until it runs clear before adding on more parts. Then you can screw on the hose, cradle, and wand by hand, no wrench required. Its filtration system meets the NSF water treatment standard for chlorine reduction, removing up to 90% of it from your water. (Originally called the National Sanitation Foundation, NSF is a global health nonprofit that independently tests products like water systems, food equipment, and dietary supplements to certify that they do what they claim and are safe to use.) Chlorine can strip away your body’s natural oils, Dr. Luftman explains, so avoiding it can help keep your hair and skin hydrated (and color-treated hair vibrant for longer).

More to know

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• Type of filter: coconut shell carbon, copper-zinc
• Notable features: rain and massage settings
• Set includes: shower filter, hose, cradle assembly, shower wand (pliers recommended to tighten the filter’s collar, but not included)
• How long it lasts: 6 months

Best for Aromatherapy: Canopy Filtered Showerhead

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Canopy

Filtered Showerhead

$150

Amazon

$150

Nordstrom

$150

Sephora

Why we love it: Bring the spa to your bathroom with Canopy’s Filtered Showerhead, a fave among derms and hairstylists alike. Dendy Engelman, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in New York City, previously vouched for its intensive filtration system consisting of granular activated carbon, a copper-zinc complex, and calcium sulfite to remove contaminants. Adir Abergel, a hairstylist and creative director of Virtue Labs, also gave it a shoutout: “I tell all my clients about the Canopy. It helps you hold color longer and also seals the cuticle to maintain shine.” And about those spa vibes: This showerhead comes with a tiny essential oil diffuser that hooks onto its arm, so you can indulge in the aromatherapeutic benefits of Canopy’s energizing and relaxing scents. (Just add a few drops onto the felt body.) Matcha Blossom or Vanilla Noir, anyone?

More to know

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• Type of filter: granular activated carbon, copper-zinc, calcium sulfite
• Notable features: felt essential oil diffuser
• Set includes: showerhead, showerhead filter, aroma oil sleeve, felt diffuser, Canopy’s Unwind Aroma Oil
• How long it lasts: 3 months

Best Budget: Sprite Slim-Line Shower Head Filter

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Sprite

Slim-Line Shower Head Filter

$28 $25 (11% off)

Amazon

$25

Walmart

Why we love it: You don’t have to make a dramatic investment to try a showerhead filter, especially if you have lingering skepticism. (Fair!) Sprite’s Slim-Line Shower Head Filter is another pick from Dr. Luftman that clocks in under $30. It removes chlorine, dirt, and odors from shower water with the brand’s patented Chlorgon filter. Translation: As part of its filtration process, it converts chlorine into chloride salt, which is harder for the skin to absorb and thus less likely to cause any barrier damage. While it doesn’t come with a ton of bells and whistles, this filter is easy to install, beginner-friendly, and won’t disrupt your setup if you’re happy with your current showerhead.

More to know

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• Type of filter: copper-zinc, calcium sulfite
• Notable features: Sprite Showers app for tracking filter use (Apple, Google Play)
• Set includes: filter housing, filter cartridge
• How long it lasts: 6 months

Frequently Asked Questions

How does hard water affect my skin and hair?

Considering hard water contributes to soap scum (as in, that gross layer of grime that can build up on your shower floor if you don’t clean it often enough), it’s no surprise that it can also lead to buildup on your body and hair, according to Dr. Ibrahim. “For people who have hard water in their shower, they’ll often see a layer of soap scum on their walls–that’s due to the minerals reacting to soap to form this insoluble layer,” he explains. When that layer of “scum” develops on your body, it can exacerbate dryness and inflammation, especially for those with skin conditions like eczema, psoriasis, keratosis pilaris, and even acne.

As for your hair, that layer of minerals leads to a dry, brittle texture and dull color (a major bummer if you pay for expensive color treatments). “Hard water can also exacerbate dandruff or seborrheic dermatitis,” adds Dr. Ibrahim.

How does a filtered showerhead benefit my skin and hair?

These filters, also known as water softeners, cleanse your tap water of mineral buildup and replace them with sodium through a process called ion exchange, Washington, DC-based dermatologist Adam Friedman, MD, previously told Allure. This process lowers the water’s concentration of mineral sediments, minimizing buildup and, potentially, irritation. To that end, “shower filters can help as long as they include a water-softening system,” says Dr. Ibrahim. These “water-softening systems” include filtration mediums such as KDF-55 (a combination of carbon and zinc) and calcium sulfite. By removing these minerals from your shower water, they can deliver calmer, healthier skin—not to mention shinier, softer hair. Consider them a worthwhile investment for your self-care routine.

Are there any shower water filters that actually work?

Showerhead filters can certainly make a difference, provided that their filtration systems are targeting the right contaminants. That’s why it’s important to look into your area’s water quality report, Dr. Spearman says. Once you know what’s actually in your shower water (say, if it contains higher-than-average levels of chlorine), you’ll have a better idea of whether a specific showerhead filter can help with your issues.

What are the disadvantages of shower filters?

For one thing, a showerhead filter is another thing to maintain around the house. The filter needs regular replacements, which means ongoing costs, Dr. Luftman points out. There’s also a chance that it affects the water pressure in your shower, she adds.

For another, keep your expectations realistic, Dr. Spearman says. Not only do filters lose efficacy over time (which is why you need to replace them), they also can’t feasibly address every single issue with your shower’s water quality. It’s better to look for subtle improvements in the long-term, like you’re gradually benefiting your skin and hair one shower at a time.

Meet the experts

• Omer Ibrahim, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in Chicago
• Debra Luftman, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in Beverly Hills and Calabasas, California
• Dara Spearman, MD, a board-certified dermatologist in Fort Wayne, Indiana
• Dendy Engelman, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in New York City
• Adir Abergel, a hairstylist and creative director of Virtue Labs

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 are particularly discerning when writing about skin-care devices. This is because of the increased risks and, in many cases, the high price points that accompany at-home dermatological tools and devices.

Each device undergoes extensive testing and must be approved by a senior member of our beauty team prior to appearing in Allure. Additionally, our editorial team consults board-certified dermatologists and cosmetic chemists about the science behind product claims and independently reviews any studies cited by brands. Testers consider performance across four primary categories: efficacy, safety (including ease of use), research and the science behind specific claims, as well as product value. To learn more information on what's involved in our reporting, check out our complete reviews process and methodology page.

Our staff and testers

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

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

Photos: Courtesy of subjectSave StorySave this storySave StorySave this story

There was a time when the vast majority of blush on the market was in pressed powder form. Those were simpler days: Pick a pink, swirl on your cheeks with the little brush that came inside the compact, call it a day. Now, however, there are not only more traditional blushes than ever before, but also a downright superabundance of other types of cheek pigments: creams, gels, stains, and even charmingly strange hybrids that bounce back when you touch them. What a time to be alive and have a face, am I right?

While it's great to have options, it can also leave you wondering which ones actually belong in your makeup bag and how to use each kind correctly. There's no universally "best" blush formula or format. It’s all about figuring out which one suits the look you're after and learning how to apply it.

Some blush types are practically foolproof, while others require a little finesse and even haste. Some excel at creating a barely there flush, while others are ideal for willfully piling on the pigment. To help you figure out which is which, we asked makeup artists to break down every major type of blush and give guidance on making the most of them.

Meet the experts:

• Allan Avendaño is a makeup artist based in Los Angeles.
• Melissa Hurkman is a makeup artist based in Los Angeles.
• Diana Koshurba is a makeup artist in southwest Florida and Portland, Oregon.
• Patricia Longo is a makeup artist based in Miami.

Pressed powder blush

Allure senior editor Jesa Marie Calaor before applying blushCourtesy of subjectCalaor after applying Nars BlushCourtesy of subjectWhat it is

Pressed powder blush is the gold standard for versatility. Made in matte, satin, luminous, and shimmer finishes, it's one of the easiest formulas to control, whether you want the faintest hint of color or a bold, editorial flush.

“It works on bare skin, over powder, and over foundation as long as it isn’t really wet and has dried down and set a bit,” says Allan Avendaño, a Los Angeles-based makeup artist. “They come in different opacities but are always buildable and can also be applied sparingly.”

Makeup artist Diana Koshurba, who loves the skin-like finish of Haus Labs Color Fuse Talc-Free Blush, says pressed powder blush is one of the most beginner-friendly formulas. "It offers excellent wear time—typically 8 to 12 hours—and is ideal for setting cream or liquid blush underneath for even longer-lasting color.”

Pro tipsCourtesy of subjectSave to wishlistSave to wishlist

Best Powder Blush

Nars Powder Blush

$34

Nordstrom

$34

Ulta Beauty

“Always start with less product than you think you need and build gradually,” says Los Angeles-based makeup artist Melissa Hurkman, whose clients include Khloe Kardashian and Shay Mitchell.

Every makeup artist we spoke to recommended using a fluffy brush, like the Sephora Collection Pro Blush Brush #96 or the Real Techniques Precision Blush Brush, for pressed powder blush. “Smile gently and sweep the color onto the apples of the cheeks, blending upward toward the temples for a lifted effect,” says Miami-based makeup artist Patricia Longo. Koshurba and Hurkman both like dusting a touch across the bridge of the nose as well.

Pressed powder blush also plays well with others. ”I like to use powder blush on top of cream or liquid blush after they dry down a bit to help it set and be more opaque,” says Avendaño.

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Cream blush

Allure content director Sophie Panych before applying blushCourtesy of subjectPanych after applying Westman Atelier Baby Cheeks Blush StickCourtesy of subjectWhat it is

Cream blush has become a modern favorite, thanks to its knack for melting into the skin with novice-friendly blendability. Available in compacts and sticks, cream blush delivers a variety of finishes, from fresh and hydrated to powder-like. “Depending on the formula, it can be sheer and dewy or more pigmented with a satin finish,” Hurkman says.

"I'm a huge fan of cream blushes," says Longo, noting that many formulas boast skin care-focused ingredients like squalane and peptides, like her personal favorite, Yensa Super Serum Silk Buildable Cream Blush. “They’re especially flattering on mature skin because they don't emphasize texture the way matte powders can.”

Avendaño has used it for red carpet looks as often as casual looks—it’s just that versatile. But be prepared to reapply if you don’t top it off with powder blush. “It can be buildable, but like all creamy and emollient products, your face will eat it up faster,” he says.

Pro tipsCourtesy of subjectSave to wishlistSave to wishlist

Westman Atelier

Westman Atelier Baby Cheeks Lip + Cheek Cream Blush Stick

$48

Nordstrom

$48

Sephora

Cream blush is one of the most flexible formulas when it comes to application. You can use your fingers, a damp sponge, a dense brush, or apply straight from the stick before going in with your tool of choice. “I actually prefer using my fingertips because they give you the most control and the warmth of your hands helps the product melt into the skin,” Longo says.

Even though gliding a stick directly on your cheeks is a completely valid choice, you may want to save that move for bare skin. “Rather than applying directly from the stick, I usually pick up product with a brush first,” Hurkman says. “It gives me much more control and helps preserve the foundation underneath.”

For an especially natural effect, Avendaño suggests trying underpainting—applying cream blush before foundation so the color peeks through subtly.

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Liquid blush

Allure commerce market editor Sarah Hoffmann before applying blushCourtesy of subjectHoffmann after applying Saie Dew BlushCourtesy of subjectWhat it is

Liquid blush delivers many of the same benefits as cream formulas, like being buildable and luminous, but often with even lighter textures and more concentrated color. "One or two dots are often enough," says Koshurba, who notes that liquid blushes are surprisingly pigmented despite their weightless feel, so don’t go swiping a big ol’ stripe across your cheek.

Many users find that liquid blushes are not as foolproof as cream blushes. “They require a careful hand,” Longo says. “They can become streaky or blotchy if they're not blended quickly.”

If you’re feeling confident with the format, though, “Liquid blush creates fresh, glowing, healthy-looking skin and works beautifully for both natural everyday makeup and radiant bridal looks,” Koshurba says.

Pro tipsCourtesy of subjectSave to wishlistSave to wishlist

Saie

Dew Blush

$26

Amazon

$26

Sephora

$26

Credo Beauty

If the pros were to give only one tip, it would be to blend immediately. Don’t even think of dotting the other cheek before you’ve blended the first, whether it’s with your fingers, a sponge, or a brush.

“Well-moisturized skin helps liquid blush blend much more evenly,” Longo says, and that’s true whether you’re going right in on bare skin with your color or applying atop liquid foundation.

Every makeup artist we spoke to recoiled when asked about applying liquid blush over powder, but if you absolutely must, “use a tapping motion with a sponge or brush to avoid disturbing the makeup underneath,” Hurkman says.

If you're unsure about the pigmentation and want to beat the going-overboard allegations, Koshurba recommends placing the product on the back of your hand before putting it on your face to get a sense of how much you’ll need.

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Cheek tint and stain

Allure beauty director Sarah Kinonen before applying blushCourtesy of subjectKinonen after applying Benefit Cosmetics Benetint Cheek & Lip StainCourtesy of subjectWhat it is

“Cheek tints and stains deliver sheer, long-lasting color that sinks into the skin rather than sitting on top of it,” Longo says. “They create that 'just-pinched' flush.” These are especially long-wearing formulas that let natural skin texture and freckles show through, which is why Avendaño recommends using them only on bare skin.

The good news: “Once they set, they stay put,” Hurkman says. “They’re lightweight, transfer-resistant, and perfect for all-day wear,” even on the hottest of days. The bad news: Once they set, they stay put. If you don’t blend them quickly, you risk staining your skin in a hard-to-undo, blotchy way.

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Benefit

Benetint Pocket Pal

$28

Sephora

$28

Benefit

Speed matters. Because stains set like they’re trying to win a race, work with a dot, one cheek at a time, blending immediately with fingertips or a dense brush.

Not satisfied with the intensity? “Apply again for a bolder wash of color,” Avendaño says. It’s much easier to add cheek stain than to subtract it.

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Gel and jelly blush

Allure associate social media manager Katie Gunderman before applying Fwee Lip & Cheek Glowy Jelly PotCourtesy of subjectGunderman after applying Fwee Lip & Cheek Glowy Jelly PotCourtesy of subjectWhat it is

Gel and jelly blushes occupy a translucent, candy-esque middle ground between cream blush and cheek tint. Their lightweight, cooling textures feel refreshing upon application. The finishes can range from dewy to stain-like, depending on the formula.

Packaged as sticks or as balms in compacts, gel and jelly blushes have become synonymous with summer makeup, which makes sense considering they look gorgeous on bare skin. Avendaño especially loves Milk Cooling Water Jelly Tint. “Its working time is fast, but it leaves a good pop of color that’s long-lasting,” he says. "It’s much like a stain, so it really does stay put on bare skin very well.”

Gel and jelly blushes are also friendly to liquid and cream foundations, but as with other non-powder blush formulas, you may want to avoid applying them on top of powder.

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Fwee

Lip&Cheek Glowy Jelly Pot

$18

Amazon

$18

Ulta Beauty

There’s really no wrong tool for applying a gel or jelly blush. Avendaño likes to use a dense, domed brush or a sponge to stipple it onto the cheeks, while Hurkman prefers to use fingertips to gently press the product into the skin.

“You can apply a stick directly to the cheeks using small, circular motions, then blend with your fingertips,” Longo says. But while some gels behave like a stain, others…not so much. “Since these formulas stay closer to the surface of the skin, you may need to reapply throughout the day.”

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Bouncy blush

Kinonen before applying blushCourtesy of subjectKinonen after applying Rare Beauty Soft Pinch Matte Bouncy BlushCourtesy of subjectWhat it is

We can’t talk about bouncy blush without saluting the discontinued diva that put it on the map: Maybelline New York Dream Bouncy Blush. She bounced so others could run.

A bit of a tactile mystery to anyone who isn’t a cosmetic chemist, bouncy blushes combine the airy feel of mousse with a cream-to-powder finish. They're cushiony to the touch, lightweight on the skin, and usually dry down to a soft satin or velvety finish.

"When I think of bouncy blush, I often think of K-beauty trends," says Avendaño, who loves the soft-focus effect these formulas create when draped across the cheeks and around the eyes. Longo agrees, saying they're ideal for a glowing, everyday makeup look.

Bouncy blush works well on bare skin, liquid foundation, and even lightly powdered complexions, thanks to its hybrid texture.

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Rare Beauty

Rare Beauty Soft Pinch Matte Bouncy Blush

$27

Ulta Beauty

$27

Sephora

Fingertips are the top tool recommendation from the makeup artists we spoke to because they preserve the cloud-like texture while helping press pigment naturally into the skin. “I think using your fingers is possibly the easiest and most convenient way to apply the blush, but you can stipple it out with a dense brush,” says Avendaño, who recommends Rare Beauty Soft Pinch Matte Bouncy Blush for its blurred, matte finish.

Hurkman also likes a dense brush for blending bouncy blush, specifically with synthetic bristles. “Press the product into the skin rather than sweeping it across the cheeks,” she says. “It creates a more seamless, skin-like finish.”

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Loose powder blush

What it is

Loose powder blush is traditional pressed powder blush’s more ethereal cousin, and far less common—only a handful of loose powder blushes are on the market. Its finely milled texture creates a diffused, almost airbrushed effect that feels lighter on the skin.

Don’t be deceived by that lightness, however. “Because the pigment isn’t pressed, a little product goes a long way,” Hurkman says. Koshurba agrees, adding that using a light hand is key with loose powder blushes. Both she and Avendaño love Givenchy Prisme Libre Loose Powder Blush for its blurred finish.

Avendaño says loose powder blush works on both bare and made-up skin, but it's not as easy to control. “Similar to pressed powder blushes, apply it on top of foundation that has been set or dried down a bit to avoid patchy application,” he adds.

Pro tips

It’s unanimous: Always tap excess loose powder blush off of your brush before applying. This is nonnegotiable. “I like to apply it in a swirling motion on the apples of the cheeks and into the temples,” Avendaño says. Koshurba recommends buffing in gentle, circular motions for the smoothest finish.

Loose powder blush can even be used to help improve the finish of pressed powder blush. “If you find your blush looking not so diffused and a little blotchy or uneven, add loose powder blush to smooth it out on top or right before you add your pressed blush for a smooth application,” Koshurba says.

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