Blog

  • 9 Best Korean Cleansers for Smoother, Calmer Skin

    9 Best Korean Cleansers for Smoother, Calmer Skin

    Image contains a collage of Allure editors surround by a collage of Korean cleansersCollage: Jemeria Davison; Source images: Courtesy of Allure editors and brandsSave StorySave this storySave StorySave this story

    Washing your face can feel like a chore—until you add one of the best Korean cleansers to your routine and, suddenly, it feels like a mini spa moment. "Korean cleansers have gained popularity due to their gentle formulations and use of innovative ingredients," says Claire Chang, MD, a board-certified dermatologist in New York City. Think derm-approved ingredients like Centella asiatica (a.k.a. cica) and polyhydroxy acid (PHA), paired with sensorial appeal—gels that transform into airy clouds of foam or buttery balms that melt into your skin. Erica Choi, esthetician and founder of Korean beauty-inspired brand Superegg, puts it another way: Many K-beauty cleansers "reflect the Korean skin-care philosophy of prevention and maintenance rather than treatment."

    Our Top Korean Cleansers

    • Best Overall: Etude SoonJung pH 6.5 Whip Facial Cleanser, $15
    • Best for Sensitive Skin: Haruharu Wonder Black Rice Moisture 5.5 Soft Cleansing Gel, $10
    • Best for Combination Skin: Ma:nyo Pure Soybean Cleansing Milk, $21
    • Best for Oily Skin: Hanyul Artemisia Soothing 2-in-1 Mask to Foam Cleanser, $22
    • Best for Dry Skin: Aestura Atobarrier365 Bubble Cleanser, $21
    • Best for Uneven Texture: Medicube Zero Pore SA Clear Capsule Facial Deep Cleanser, $20
    • Best for Waterproof Makeup: Banila Co Clean It Zero Calming Cleansing Balm, $21

    Frequently Asked Questions

    • Which Korean facial cleanser is the best?
    • What is the Korean cleansing method?
    • Meet the experts
    • How we test and review products
    • Our staff and testers

    Check out our FAQs to get all your cleansing questions answered, and keep scrolling for the full breakdown of the best Korean cleansers for every skin type. Go forth and lather up!

    Best Overall: Etude SoonJung pH 6.5 Whip Facial Cleanser

    Etude white branded facial cleanser with blue accents and clear cap on light gray backgroundSave to wishlistSave to wishlist

    Etude

    SoonJung pH 6.5 Whip Facial Cleanser

    $10

    Amazon

    $18

    Soko Glam

    Allure commerce editor Sarah Han using the Etude SoonJung pH 6.5 Whip Facial Cleanser

    Sarah Han

    Why it's worth it: You may know Etude for its long-lasting lip tints and smudge-proof mascaras, but this Korean beauty brand makes excellent skin care, including its popular SoonJung range. If you're not sure what Korean cleanser (in general!) to pick, this cloudlike SoonJung pH 6.5 Whip Facial Cleanser is suits all skin types, including sensitive skin. It features a low pH of 6.5—which is less likely to disrupt your natural barrier function—and excludes any potential irritants that might trigger irritation or breakouts. Made with soothing ingredients like madecassoside (an ingredient derived from Centella asiatica or cica) and panthenol, this cuddly foam cleanser hydrates as it removes impurities.

    Tester feedback from commerce editor Sarah Han

    AccordionItemContainerButtonLargeChevron

    "Even before I tried this cleansing foam out for myself, I saw a lot of hype on social media coming from people of all different skin types. It's so satisfying to use and I love how gentle it is—it is, after all, fragrance-free—especially after I've gone to town breaking down my makeup with a cleansing balm or oil. It feels like my skin is being cuddled and pampered by the softest cloud, which is a fabulous way to wind down from a long day. My skin feels equally soft and comfortable after I've rinsed it away. No notes." —Sarah Han, commerce editor

    More to know

    AccordionItemContainerButtonLargeChevron

    • Key ingredients: panthenol, madecassoside, camellia sinensis leaf extract
    • Who it's for: all skin types, including sensitive skin
    • Fragrance-free: yes

    Best for Sensitive Skin: Haruharu Wonder Black Rice Moisture 5.5 Soft Cleansing Gel

    Haruharu Wonder Black Rice Moisture 5.5 Soft Cleansing Gel in branded tube component on a light gray backgroundSave to wishlistSave to wishlist

    Haruharu Wonder

    Black Rice Moisture 5.5 Soft Cleansing Gel

    $10

    Amazon

    $18

    Nordstrom

    $16

    Soko Glam

    Allure contributing commerce writer Christa Joanna Lee using the Haruharu Wonder Black Rice Moisture 5.5 Soft Cleansing Gel

    Christa Joanna Lee

    Why it's worth it: Still wondering why pH matters in a cleanser? Healthy skin is naturally slightly acidic (pH 4.7–5.5), which helps maintain a strong barrier, minimize moisture loss, and discourage irritation-causing bacteria. Haruharu Wonder’s Black Rice Moisture 5.5 Soft Cleansing Gel sits right in that skin-friendly range, helping sensitive complexions stay comfortable during and after cleansing.

    Mild, amino-acid-based surfactants cleanse without irritation, while glycerin and beta-glucan help reinforce hydration and ease sensitivity. The formula also spotlights classic Korean ingredients—rice extract to support hydration and ginseng for antioxidant benefits, notes Christina Han, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in Vancouver. Pulsatilla koreana extract, a traditional Korean herbal ingredient known for its calming and antimicrobial properties, helps soothe redness-prone, reactive skin. The low-foam, fragrance-free gel has a cushiony feel that leaves skin clean and balanced. Because the oil-free formula isn’t designed to dissolve waterproof makeup, our tester found it works best as a second-step cleanse or on bare-faced days.

    Lee before applying the Haruharu Wonder Black Rice Moisture 5.5 Soft Cleansing Gel

    Lee before using the Haruharu Wonder Black Rice Moisture 5.5 Soft Cleansing Gel

    Christa Joanna LeeLee after applying the Haruharu Wonder Black Rice Moisture 5.5 Soft Cleansing Gel

    Lee after using the Haruharu Wonder Black Rice Moisture 5.5 Soft Cleansing Gel

    Christa Joanna Lee

    Tester feedback from contributing commerce writer Christa Joanna Lee

    AccordionItemContainerButtonLargeChevron

    “I have sensitive, dry skin, and this gel cleanser feels so luxe and comforting every time I use it. I was impressed by how well it broke down my complexion makeup (it almost passed the white towel test), but my bulletproof eye makeup did leave a bit of residue, so I like it best as the second step in a double cleanse. The fragrance-free formula is perfect for my sensitive skin and makes this a cleanser I easily keep in my regular rotation.” —Christa Joanna Lee, contributing commerce writer

    More to know

    AccordionItemContainerButtonLargeChevron

    • Key ingredients: glycerin, beta-glucan, rice extract, ginseng, pulsatilla koreana extract
    • Who it's for: people with sensitive or dry skin
    • Fragrance-free: yes

    Best for Combination Skin: Ma:nyo Pure Soybean Cleansing Milk

    Ma:nyo Pure Soybean Cleansing Milk in branded bottle component on a light gray backgroundSave to wishlistSave to wishlist

    Ma:nyo

    Pure Soybean Cleansing Milk

    $21

    Ulta Beauty

    $25

    Olive Young

    $21

    Yesstyle

    Allure senior commerce editor Sarah Felbin using the Ma:nyo Pure Soybean Cleansing Milk

    Sarah Felbin

    Why it's worth it: Chances are the Best of Beauty-winning Ma:nyo Pure Cleansing Oil has already made its way into your routine—and if you love that one but crave something even more gentle, the Pure Soybean Cleansing Milk is your new go-to. This milky, all-in-one cleanser is especially great for combo-to-dry or sensitive skin—and for anyone dealing with large, visible pores who still wants a thorough cleanse without stripping skin. The star is a 120-hour(!) fermented wild soybean extract, a classic Korean ingredient processed over several days to break it down into smaller, more skin-friendly components. That long fermentation makes the extract lighter, easier for skin to absorb, and less likely to irritate, while helping smooth texture and regulate excess sebum so pores look softer and more refined over time.

    Lightweight sunflower seed and jojoba seed oils dissolve makeup and excess sebum while mimicking skin’s natural lipids. Ceramides, panthenol, hyaluronic acid, cica, and fig help lock in comfort, so skin stays soft and hydrated—not just during cleansing, but for many hours after.

    Felbin before applying the Manyo Pure Soybean Cleansing Milk

    Felbin before using the Ma:nyo Pure Soybean Cleansing Milk

    Sarah FelbinFelbin after applying the Manyo Pure Soybean Cleansing Milk

    Felbin after using the Ma:nyo Pure Soybean Cleansing Milk

    Sarah Felbin

    Tester feedback from senior commerce editor Sarah Felbin

    AccordionItemContainerButtonLargeChevron

    “This might be the gentlest cleanser I've ever used. My skin is super-sensitive—some cleansers are too harsh and leave my face feeling dry and tight (not fun). But Ma:nyo's new cleansing milk barely foams up at all and feels more like a moisturizer than a face wash. It's so gentle, I was surprised by how well it removed oil and makeup. Dry skin people, you'll be obsessed with this one.” —Sarah Felbin, senior commerce editor

    More to know

    AccordionItemContainerButtonLargeChevron

    • Key ingredients: soybean extract, ceramides, panthenol, hyaluronic acid, cica, fig, sunflower seed and jojoba seed oils
    • Who it's for: everyone, especially those with combination or dry skin
    • Fragrance-free: yes

    Best for Oily Skin: Hanyul Artemisia Soothing 2-in-1 Mask to Foam Cleanser

    Hanyul Artemisia Soothing 2-in-1 Mask to Foam Cleanser in branded tube component on a light gray backgroundSave to wishlistSave to wishlist

    Hanyul

    Artemisia Soothing 2-in-1 Mask to Foam Cleanser

    $22

    Sephora

    $33

    Olive Young

    Why it's worth it: K-beauty is famous for its fun, tactile formulas, but Hanyul’s Artemisia Soothing 2-in-1 Mask to Foam Cleanser might be our favorite sensorial moment yet. It starts with a stretchy, rice-cake-like texture that clings to skin like a mask, gripping onto impurities before transforming into a soft, cushiony foam once you add water (yes, it’s as satisfying as it sounds). The formula centers on the brand’s Artemisia-Cica complex—a calming blend of mugwort and Centella asiatica that helps soothe redness and stressed skin. Artemisia powder gently smooths texture, while 10 types of hyaluronic acid and 40% glycerin cleanse without stripping and leave skin comfortably hydrated. There’s also a small amount of salicylic acid for light exfoliation; it sits low on the ingredient list, but extra-sensitive skin types may want to patch-test just in case.

    Han using the Hanyul Artemisia Soothing 2-in-1 Mask to Foam Cleanser

    Sarah HanHan after applying the Hanyul Artemisia Soothing 2in1 Mask to Foam Cleanser

    Han after using the Hanyul Artemisia Soothing 2-in-1 Mask to Foam Cleanser

    Sarah Han

    Tester feedback from Han

    AccordionItemContainerButtonLargeChevron

    “I haven't been this excited about a water-based cleanser in years, I tell you! The Hanyul Artemisia Soothing 2-in-1 Mask to Foam Cleanser has this extra-satisfying gooey, mochi-like texture that lets you really slather it on evenly, like you would with a mask. Due to its two-in-one nature, I usually leave it on for about two minutes because I find that it goes above and beyond my usual cleansers and truly helps clear out my clogged pores without causing dryness (combo-skin life). It emulsifies into a lightweight foam that feels oh-so-sensorial, and I don't mind that I need to be a little more thorough when rinsing it off—again, it acts like a mask! I use this every other night to keep my pores (a big skin-care woe of mine) in check.” —Sarah Han, commerce editor

    More to know

    AccordionItemContainerButtonLargeChevron

    • Key ingredients: cica, mugwort, artemisia powder, glycerin, hyaluronic acid, salicylic
    • Who it's for: everyone, especially those with clogged pores
    • Fragrance-free: no

    Best for Dry Skin: Aestura Atobarrier365 Bubble Cleanser

    Aestura Atobarrier 365 Foaming Cleanser on a light gray backgroundSave to wishlistSave to wishlist

    Aestura

    Atobarrier365 Bubble Cleanser

    $21

    Amazon

    $21

    Sephora

    $27

    Olive Young

    Allure contributor Sarah Y. Wu using the Aestura Atobarrier365 Bubble Cleanser

    Sarah Y. Wu

    Why it's worth it: Aestura is a household name in South Korea, where it's become the number-one derma cosmetic brand. The brand's Atobarrier line is especially popular for dry, sensitive skin, and this frothy foam Atobarrier365 Bubble Cleanser is an excellent example of why. Infused with moisturizing, soothing ingredients like glycerin, vitamin E, and green tea extract, it thoroughly cleanses dry and reactive skin without triggering irritation. It's not designed to remove makeup, so you'll have to take care of that with a cleansing oil, balm, or makeup remover first, but it's a great pick for clearing your skin of buildup and pollutants in the gentlest, most hydrating way possible.

    Tester feedback from contributor Sarah Y. Wu

    AccordionItemContainerButtonLargeChevron

    "I have mild rosacea and a lot of dry patches on my midface, and I immediately swap to Aestura's cleanser when they flare up. I test a lot of beauty products so whenever I get a flare-up, I strip my routine back to the basics: no serums, ampoules, or peels—just a very basic moisturizer, sunscreen when I go outside, and this cleanser. The first time I used it, I loved how creamy and fluffy the bubbles felt. From a practical standpoint, it's easy to coat my entire face evenly because of the bubbly texture, but it also just feels really nice. More importantly, this cleanser always leaves my skin incredibly smooth, soft, and soothed. I hate the prickly, stinging feeling some cleansers give me when my skin is dry and sensitive but this always leaves my face feeling better after a quick rinse." —Sarah Y. Wu, contributor

    More to know

    AccordionItemContainerButtonLargeChevron

    • Key ingredients: glycerin, tocopherol (vitamin E), green tea extract
    • Who it's for: all skin types, especially dry and sensitive skin
    • Fragrance-free: yes

    Best for Uneven Texture: Medicube Zero Pore SA Clear Capsule Facial Deep Cleanser

    Medicube Zero Pore SA Clear Capsule Facial Deep Cleanser in branded component on a light gray backgroundSave to wishlistSave to wishlist

    Medicube

    Zero Pore SA Clear Capsule Facial Deep Cleanser

    $20 $15 (25% off)

    Amazon

    $17

    Ulta Beauty

    Why it's worth it: While you can’t actually get rid of your pores (they’re kind of essential!), K-beauty has a way of making them look like they barely exist with the help of Medicube’s Zero Pore SA Clear Capsule Facial Deep Cleanser. This foaming cleanser is packed with a mix of acids: salicylic acid (beta hydroxy acid) and willow bark extract help clear excess oil from inside pores, mandelic acid (alpha hydroxy acid) smooths surface texture, and gluconolactone (polyhydroxy acid) offers gentle exfoliation with less irritation, so it’s still great for daily use.

    What really sets it apart are cica exosomes (listed as Centella leaf vesicles), tiny, lipid-based “delivery bubbles” that help Centella’s calming, barrier-supporting benefits sink in more effectively, which is especially helpful in a triple acid-based cleanser. For an added boost, micro-blue capsules dissolve as you cleanse, providing light, skin-friendly physical exfoliation.

    Lee using the Zero Pore Capsule Cleansing Foam

    Christa Joanna LeeLee after applying the Zero Pore Capsule Cleansing Foam

    Lee after using the Zero Pore Capsule Cleansing Foam

    Christa Joanna Lee

    Tester feedback from Lee

    AccordionItemContainerButtonLargeChevron

    “I always kick off my skin-care routine with the Medicube Zero Pore Capsule Cleansing Foam—it’s gentle enough for my sensitive skin yet still gives me that fresh, just-polished feel. The formula itself is quite thick, so I have to squeeze it a bit hard to get it out of the tube, but once it lathers, the micro-blue exosome capsules provide gentle physical exfoliation. Medicube also relies on chemical acids, utilizing AHAs like mandelic acid and BHAs like salicylic acid to prevent breakouts by keeping pores clear, along with cica to soothe irritation and green tea extract for an antioxidant boost. This cleansing foam never fail to leave my skin feeling clean, comfortable, and ready for the rest of my routine.” —Christa Joanna Lee, contributing commerce writer

    More to know

    AccordionItemContainerButtonLargeChevron

    • Key ingredients: micro-blue exosome capsules, salicylic acid, Centella asiatica, green tea extract, cica exosome
    • Who it's for: people with clogged pores or uneven texture
    • Fragrance-free: no

    Best Cleansing Powder: Tirtir Hydro Boost Enzyme Cleansing Powder

    Tirtir white branded component with black accents and white lid on light gray backgroundSave to wishlistSave to wishlist

    Tirtir

    Hydro Boost Enzyme Cleansing Powder

    $15

    Amazon

    $15

    Olive Young

    $15

    Yesstyle

    Wu using the Tirtir Hydro Boost Enzyme Cleansing Powder

    Sarah Y. Wu

    Why it's worth it: Enzymes exfoliate your skin by dissolving dead skin cells—but only on the surface level, so there's less potential for irritation. Tirtir's travel-friendly Hydro Boost Enzyme Cleansing Powder, infused with enzymes, probiotics, and mild PHA, is a dry powder that activates when you wet it. Formulated as a true cleanser (not a face scrub), it foams into a milky cleanser with just a few drops of water. Rice extract and probiotics help keep your skin moisturized, and while it's designed to clear buildup and refine pores, it does so with especially gentle ingredients that work for a wide range of skin types.

    Tester feedback from Wu

    AccordionItemContainerButtonLargeChevron

    "I have combination skin that's very dry and sensitive in my midface, but prone to excess oil and blackheads in my T-zone," says Wu. "I usually take a very targeted approach to exfoliants and make sure they only touch my T-zone to avoid irritating the rest of my face. But this cleanser is so gentle, I've found that it also works great as an allover face wash and exfoliant in one. Most powder cleansers I've used in the past turn into a sort of gritty paste texture when I wet them. Not this one! It transforms into a creamy, super smooth foam as soon as I add water. It doesn't feel like a face scrub; instead, the powdered enzymes lightly exfoliate and clear my pores so that my face feels baby-soft when I rinse it off." —Sarah Y. Wu, contributor

    More to know

    AccordionItemContainerButtonLargeChevron

    • Key ingredients: rice extract, enzymes, probiotics, PHA, mung bean powder
    • Who it's for: normal, oily, combination, sensitive, and acne-prone skin
    • Fragrance-free: yes

    Best for Waterproof Makeup: Banila Co Clean It Zero Calming Cleansing Balm

    Banila Co. Clean It Zero Original Cleansing Balm in branded tub component on a light gray backgroundSave to wishlistSave to wishlist

    Banila Co.

    Clean It Zero Original Cleansing Balm

    $21

    Amazon

    $21

    Soko Glam

    Han using the Banila Co Clean It Zero Original Cleansing Balm

    Sarah Han

    Why it's worth it: If there’s one cleansing balm that’s basically a rite of passage in K-beauty, it’s Banila Co’s Clean It Zero. Dermatologists, K-beauty experts like Charlotte Cho, and Allure editors all swear by it—and Dr. Chang is especially partial to the Calming version in the purple tub. “I use this for my evening cleanse when I want to remove all the dirt, makeup, and oil that accumulated throughout the day,” she says, noting that she loves the balm’s soft, milky texture and how it leaves skin feeling smoother and more hydrated. The silky solid scoops out easily and melts into an oil on contact, breaking down even stubborn waterproof mascara and eyeliner without tugging. Just as importantly, it doesn’t sting eyes or irritate skin—something Dr. Chang calls essential when removing heavy eye makeup. “Just a little scoop goes a long way!” says Cho.

    Selfie of Sarah Han before applying the Banila Co Clean it Zero Original Cleansing Balm

    Han before using the Banila Co Clean It Zero Original Cleansing Balm

    Sarah HanSelfie of Sarah Han after applying the Banila Co Clean it Zero Original Cleansing Balm

    Han after using the Banila Co Clean It Zero Original Cleansing Balm

    Sarah Han

    Tester feedback from Han

    AccordionItemContainerButtonLargeChevron

    “I don't care how many cleansing balms I try throughout my lifetime—Banila's is the OG (I don't even know how many years it's been!) that I will come back to time and time again. The sorbet-like formula is so fun and satisfying and has the best slip that melts makeup on contact. It doesn't irritate my eyes either, even if I'm a little too heavy-handed (sorry!). Despite being fragrance-free, it has a slightly fresh-floral smell that makes makeup removal less like a chore, and more like a mini facial-in-a-spa moment. One note: Korean lip tints are no joke, which is why you still see some pigment from one of my most stubborn formulas—I'll usually go in with a cotton pad and micellar water afterwards to remove the rest, but the balm does a lot of heavy lifting.” —Sarah Han, commerce editor

    More to know

    AccordionItemContainerButtonLargeChevron

    • Key ingredients: Centella asiatica, madecassoside, olive oil, jojoba oil
    • Who it's for: all skin types and anyone who wears makeup, especially waterproof makeup
    • Fragrance-free: yes

    Best No-Mess Packaging: Dr. Althea Pure Grinding Cleansing Balm

    Dr. Althea Pure Grinding Cleansing Balm green twisting jar on cleansing balm on light gray background with red Allure Best of Beauty seal in the top right cornerSave to wishlistSave to wishlist

    Dr. Althea

    Pure Grinding Cleansing Balm

    $23 $19 (17% off)

    Amazon

    $23

    Yesstyle

    Allure commerce producer Sarah Hoffman applying the Dr. Althea Pure Grinding Cleansing Balm

    Sarah Hoffmann

    Why it's worth it: A cleansing balm that works like a pencil sharpener? K-beauty made it. Dr. Althea Pure Grinding Cleansing Balm is a TikTok favorite and newly crowned 2025 Best of Beauty Award winner, no big deal. Unlike most cleansing balms, which come with plastic spatulas, this one has a built-in dispenser that churns out ribbons of balm like thin sheets of pasta. The balm itself is formulated to remove both sunscreen and waterproof makeup without leaving any oily residue on your skin. It's infused with soothing centella and madecassoside to accommodate sensitive and acne-prone skin types and cleanses with a blend of camellia sinensis seed and grape seed oils.

    Hoffmann before using Dr. Althea Pure Grinding Cleansing Balm

    Hoffman before using the Dr. Althea Pure Grinding Cleansing Balm

    Sarah HoffmannHoffmann after using Dr. Althea Pure Grinding Cleansing Balm

    Hoffman after using the Dr. Althea Pure Grinding Cleansing Balm

    Sarah Hoffmann

    Tester feedback from commerce producer Sarah Hoffman

    AccordionItemContainerButtonLargeChevron

    “My main metrics for cleansing balms are how easily they remove makeup (specifically eye makeup) and how soft my skin feels afterwards. Dr. Althea's Pure Grinding Cleansing Balm checks both of those boxes. The formula emulsifies so well and melts mascara, eyeliner, and the rest off like a total dream. My skin feels baby smooth and perfectly soft every time I use it. Plus, the grinder dispensing method means no searching for an applicator spoon and no dipping my hands into a pot of product (something I've always found semi-gross). Genius.” —Sarah Hoffmann, commerce producer

    More to know

    AccordionItemContainerButtonLargeChevron

    • Key ingredients: Centella asiatica, madecassoside, camellia senensis seed oil, grape seed oil
    • Who it's for: all skin types and anyone who wears makeup
    • Fragrance-free: yes

    Frequently Asked Questions

    Which Korean facial cleanser is the best?

    The better question here is: Which Korean facial cleanser is best for your skin type? "Korean cleansers come with a variety of active ingredients that can help with multiple skin types," says Dr. Chang. “This allows you to customize your skin-care routine based on your skin needs.” If you like perusing ingredient lists, Dr. Chang has a few additional tips to match your skin type to a suitable cleanser."

    Oily skin

    For oily skin, it's important to look for ingredients that help control excess sebum production, reduce clogged pores, and reduce inflammation without stripping the skin of its natural moisture," she says. "Key ingredients to look for include beta hydroxy acids (like salicylic acid), tea tree oil (which has antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties), green tea, and niacinamide."

    Dry skin

    If you have dry skin, she recommends hydrating and barrier-boosting ingredients, including hyaluronic acid, glycerin, ceramides, and shea butter. Those with sensitive skin should search out "gentle, hypoallergenic, and fragrance-free cleansers" with ingredients like Centella asiatica (cica), green tea extract, allantoin, colloidal oatmeal, licorice root extract, and niacinamide.

    If your skin type doesn't sound like a perfect match for a cleanser but you're still curious to try, there's room for experimentation. "Korean cleansers tend to be gentle," says Dr. Chang. "Even if they include chemical exfoliants, the percentages tend to be low and are typically combined with other skin-calming and -repairing ingredients." Choi agrees. "Korean cleansers are known for being hydrating and gentle, making them suitable for most skin types without being stripping," she says. "Many Korean cleansers are formulated to be pH-balanced, typically around 5.5, matching the skin's natural pH level. This helps maintain the skin's acid mantle, which is crucial for protecting against bacteria and environmental stressors." Still, if you have sensitive skin, conduct a patch test first.

    What is the Korean cleansing method?

    The Korean cleansing method, also known as double cleansing, is "a foundational step in the Korean skin-care routine that has gained worldwide popularity," says Dr. Chang. "Double cleansing refers to a two-step face cleansing technique, which involves using an oil-based cleanser and a water-based cleanser to thoroughly remove makeup, sunscreen, and other impurities from the skin." The first cleanse melts away your oil-based impurities, like sebum and makeup. The second takes care of the remaining sweat and dirt.

    "In Korea, everyone is obsessed with how to properly cleanse their skin because it's the first step to the final goal: dewy, soft skin," explains Cho. "It's not just a K-beauty staple; many dermatologists recommend the double cleanse as a way to first lift dirt and grime and then properly wash it all away." Our list above contains both oil- and water-based cleansers so you can build your own double-cleansing duo.

    Meet the experts

    • Claire Chang, MD, a board-certified dermatologist at UnionDerm based in New York City
    • Charlotte Cho, a licensed esthetician and cofounder of Soko Glam based in New York City
    • Erica Choi, a licensed esthetician and founder of Superegg based in Seoul and New York City
    • Christina Han, MD, a board-certified dermatologist and medical director at Xyon based in Vancouver

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

    Our staff and testers

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

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

  • Jennifer Love Hewitt’s New Tiny Tattoo Would Do Numbers on Pinterest — See Photo

    Jennifer Love Hewitt’s New Tiny Tattoo Would Do Numbers on Pinterest — See Photo

    Jennifer Love Hewitt smiling in an embroidered black blazerPhoto: Getty ImagesSave StorySave this storySave StorySave this story

    You don't need a special meaning behind a tattoo, but for many people—Jennifer Love Hewitt included—our ink is inspired by the people, places, and things that matter most. For example, in 2023, she got an important reminder, “the universe always provides,” tattooed on her forearm, and in 2024, she got a tribute to her show, 9-1-1, in the form of a phone on her wrist. And she just shared the latest addition to her collection, which may just be her most heartfelt yet.

    On her Instagram Stories, Hewitt shared an artsy black-and-white photo of the back of her wrist. There, a few inches above a cluster of bracelets, is a new, super-dainty tattoo: four little hearts, each one drawn a little differently, a little imperfectly. But when you know why, it turns out they're actually perfect.

    “I had my husband and kids draw hearts for me,” Hewitt captioned the photo. “And now I can see them all the time." How sweet is that?

    Hewitt tagged and thanked Orange, California, tattoo artist Audrey Glass, known for both fine-line tattoos and cosmetic tattooing like microblading and freckles.

    Black and white image of Jennifer Love Hewitt's forearm featuring a tattoo of four hearts and a cluster of braceletsPhoto: Jennifer Love Hewitt/Instagram

    You have to admit, it's a lovely idea. It's very much in the same vein as handwriting tattoos, like Kylie Jenner's tattoo of her grandmother's name in her grandfather's handwriting, and Demi Lovato's tattoo of her mother's handwriting, reading, “I love you more.” And tiny hearts? This is bound to be collected all over Pinterest.

    The great news is, even if you copy the idea, the hearts will always be unique to the people drawing them—and that's what makes this ink particularly special.

  • Demi Moore’s Wet-Look Gucci Bob Is So High Fashion—See the Photos

    Demi Moore’s Wet-Look Gucci Bob Is So High Fashion—See the Photos

    Demi Moore poses at a premiere in a floral gown and wears her hair half up.Getty ImagesSave StorySave this storySave StorySave this story

    If there's ever a time to make a big, dramatic change to your look, it's while you're sitting front row at the Gucci show during Milan Fashion Week, with an adorable teeny dog in your lap. Okay, so most of us don't exactly have that kind of high-fashion access, but Demi Moore does, and she hit up Demna's much-anticipated first runway show looking like a Gucci dream in a sleek, chic wet-look bob.

    When you think of the Oscar-nominated actor, you probably think about her long, straight, free-flowing dark hair, but her long hair was nowhere in sight in Milan. Instead, the The Substance star swapped it for a swingy cropped cut that fell just below her jawline, crafted by hairstylist Dimitris Giannetos. (The two apparently call it a “Demi-tris bob,” which is cute.)

    Giannetos styled the bob to look as though Moore just stepped out of the shower or had a dip in the pool, with lots of wet, piece-y texture. When paired with her black leather jacket, pants, and face-shielding sunglasses, the look was futuristic but also a little Y2K, like Moore was hanging out on the set of The Matrix. In short, it fit right in with Demna's design aesthetic.

    “I wanted to give Demi a very bold and fashion forward look for Demna’s show. It is inspired by the silhouettes of the new collection," Giannetos shared. “I felt an amazing, short, above-the-shoulder bob with this very sleek wet texture would be perfect to complement her look. It’s a big change for Demi—we’ve never seen her like this before! She looks very cool, effortless and modern. And it highlights her personality.”

    To replicate the look, you'll need a good hair gel for that defined, damp effect—but you'll have to find your own version of Pilaf the dog.

    Demi Moore poses at a fashion show in a black leather outfit and short bob. She holds her dog.Getty Images

    Moore is a Gucci gal, so we weren't surprised to see her sitting front row at the show. Last year, she even starred in a short film for the brand, playing a character named Barbara Gucci; Barbara Gucci didn't have a bob, but she did have curtain bangs! While we highly doubt that Moore has permanently ditched her long hair, it's so fun to see her change things up in such a major way. Wait… Do I want a bob now?

  • Ribbed-Glass Nails Are 2026’s Fanciest Nail Trend

    Ribbed-Glass Nails Are 2026’s Fanciest Nail Trend

    Ribbed nail art trendCourtesy of nail artistsSave StorySave this storySave StorySave this story

    If you grew up sipping sparkling cider from your grandmother’s fluted glasses—the ones that only came out with the fancy china on holidays—you already understand the appeal of our latest manicure obsession. Ribbed-glass nails feature thin, raised lines painted close together in a vertical pattern. The linear texture and light-catching dimension evoke vintage elegance, resulting in a manicure that whispers old money. “It’s heirloom energy reimagined,” says New York City-based nail artist Elle Gerstein.

    This look neatly intersects two trends that experts predicted would define 2026: touchable texture and stripes. When we asked nail pros what would shape the year ahead, nearly all of them pointed to raised, dimensional finishes as the next evolution of nail art, and ribbed glass may be one of the most refined interpretations of that forecast.

    The look is already dominating our feeds, and ribbed-glass nails also made a runway appearance during New York Fashion Week. Nail artist Christina Duong crafted a black-and-gold metallic ribbed manicure for the Sergio Hudson show, mirroring the collection’s sharp pinstripes.

    Metallic ribbed nailsInstagram /@cqdnails

    This look is just beginning to gain traction stateside, but textured-gel designs have been thriving in South Korea. “Textured gel is currently very popular. It works beautifully as an accent and has a refined, expressive finish,” Minseo Kang, a nail artist in Seoul, previously told Allure.

    Achieving the ribbed-glass effect is surprisingly straightforward. “Use a cat-eye polish as your base, then cure,” says Leslie Morel, a nail artist in Bergen County, New Jersey. “Go over your base with a matte topcoat and cure for 60 seconds.” Morel prefers to use a clear glossy topcoat for the lines, and a thin nail brush to paint them: “The trick is to draw the lines as close together as possible without overlapping or connecting them.”

    In Seoul, artists often rely on specialized tools to perfect the texture. Many reach for a small, flat brush with bristles that are denser at the base and finer at the tips—almost like a wide-tooth comb—to carve ultra-precise ridges that feel architectural yet delicate.

    Gianni Garcia, a nail artist and creative director of Art Nail NYC, prefers using spider gel to achieve crisp, raised lines. After dipping a dotting tool into the thick, elastic formula, she lifts and stretches the gel—like a super thin cheese pull—to lay down perfectly straight strands across the nail. Once the ribbed pattern is in place over a solid base, cure and seal with a topcoat. Says Garcia, “This makes the process quicker and easier.”

    The realistic depth and glass-like shimmer make glossy stripes over a cat-eye base the internet’s favorite iteration of the ribbed-glass nail look, but the design is highly customizable. You can opt for glossy ribs over matte polish, matte stripes over a high-shine base, or cat-eye lines layered atop velvet shimmer. The interplay of texture and finish is what gives the look its dimension.

    Ready to try this expensive-looking manicure for yourself? Ahead, the ribbed-glass designs that made us double-tap.

    Ribbed-Glass Nails Inspiration

    Purple ribbed-glass nailsImage may contain Cosmetics Body Part Hand and PersonInstagram / @inspirenailstudioscotlandRibbed glass nails trendInstagram / @taminailartistRibbed glass nail trendInstagram / @bujinailsRibbed glass nailsInstagram / @nailsby_bjpSilver ribbed-glass nailsRibbed glass nail artCourtesy of @iris.nailed.itEmerald ribbed-glass nailsRibbed Glass Nails TrendInstagram / @goose.beautyRibbed Glass NailsInstagram / @inspirenailstudioscotlandBronze ribbed-glass nailsRibbed glass nailsInstagram / @creativetayynailsDark gray ribbed-glass nailsRibbed glass nail trendInstagram / @nlzbynanaChampagne ribbed-glass nailsribbed glass nailsInstagram / @dianas_dulce_nailsSage green ribbed-glass nailsGreen ribbed glass nailsInstagram / @dianas_dulce_nailsIcy blue ribbed-glass nailsIcy blue ribbed glass nailsInstagram / @kwynailsGreen ribbed-glass nailsGreen ribbed glass nailsCourtesy of Elle GersteinDark brown-ribbed nailsDark brown ribbed glass nailsInstagram / @nailsbylesBrown shimmer ribbed-glass nailsLight brown ribbed glass nailsInstagram / @mayleidoesnailsRainbow ribbed-glass nailsSwirl multicolored ribbed glass nailsInstagram / @nailjob

  • 11 Best Body Moisturizers for Winter to Soothe Dry Skin

    11 Best Body Moisturizers for Winter to Soothe Dry Skin

    Image may contain Face Head Person Photography Portrait Adult Black Hair Hair Bottle and ShakerCollage: Jemeria Davison; Source images: Courtesy of Allure editors and brandsSave StorySave this storySave StorySave this story

    When temperatures fall to (or below) freezing, we often trade smooth, soft legs and arms for ashiness, itchiness, and rough, scaly patches. But that doesn’t mean you have to settle for anything less than healthy, hydrated skin—even when the wind chill drops to single digits. The best body moisturizers for winter can make a world of difference: These rich, restorative formulas are made with soothing ingredients like ceramides, cholesterol, and non-sticky oils that offer more thorough and longer-lasting moisture than your average body lotion. They’re even powerful enough to tackle chronic skin conditions like eczema or keratosis pilaris.

    Our Top Body Moisturizers for Winter

    • Best Body Cream: La Roche-Posay Lipikar AP+ Triple Repair Moisturizing Cream, $22
    • Best Body Lotion: Aestura Atobarrier 365 Ceramide Lotion, $32
    • Best Body Butter: OSEA Undaria Algae Body Butter, $54
    • Best Body Oil: Oui the People Featherweight Hydrating Body Gloss, $65
    • Best Serum: Cyklar Ceramide Milky Essence, $30
    • Best K-Beauty: Illiyoon Ceramide Ato Concentrate Cream, $29
    • Best for Itchy Skin: Kiehl’s Ultra Body Mega Moisture Squalane Cream, $49
    • Best for Keratosis Pilaris: Topicals Slather Exfoliating Body Serum, $30

    Your skin gets drier in the cold because when the air outside is less humid, it produces less sebum. That’s why dermatologists recommend looking for thick moisturizers with humectants that hydrate, emollients that moisturize, and occlusives that lock it all in, for calmer, softer skin (no scratching here). Also, be sure to avoid any products with added fragrance if you’re dealing with an eczema flare-up. Here are the lotions and creams Allure editors rely on, plus others derms recommend to their own patients.

    Frequently Asked QuestionsAccordionItemContainerButtonLargeChevron

    • What causes dry skin during winter?
    • Which body moisturizer is best for dry skin in winter?
    • Meet the Experts
    • How we test and review products
    • Our staff and testers

    Best Body Cream: La Roche-Posay Lipikar AP+ Triple Repair Moisturizing Cream

    La Roche-Posay Lipikar AP+ Triple Repair Moisturizing Cream in branded component on a light gray backgroundSave to wishlistSave to wishlist

    La Roche-Posay

    Lipikar AP+ Triple Repair Moisturizing Cream

    $22

    Amazon

    $23

    Dermstore

    $22

    Ulta Beauty

    Allure senior news editor Nicola Dall’Asen applying the La Roche-Posay Lipikar AP+ Triple Repair Moisturizing Cream

    Nicola Dall'Asen

    Why it’s worth it: La Roche-Posay’s Lipikar AP+ Triple Repair Moisturizing Cream is “the cashmere sweater of moisturizers,” according to one Allure editor—simple and versatile (it’s great for face and body). Derms love it, too: “Lipikar has both moisturizers that help replenish the natural moisturizers that lessen with age and niacinamide that helps with discoloration,” Stephanie Saxton-Daniels, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in Dallas, told Allure. Niacinamide and glycerin hydrate—then, nourishing shea butter, which "can help to heal cracked skin due to its vitamins A, E, and F content," cosmetic chemist Ginger King explained, works overtime to restore the skin barrier. Another National Eczema Association Seal of Acceptance winner, this cream is made with thermal spring water that naturally contains the skin-soothing antioxidant selenium. It all comes in an under-$25 bottle with a handy pump, so you can reapply whenever you get the itch.

    Tester feedback from senior news editor Nicola Dall’Asen

    AccordionItemContainerButtonLargeChevron

    “Fun fact: Tattoos can produce histamines that make your skin super itchy, sometimes for seemingly no reason at all. I'm heavily tattooed from head to toe, leaving me prone to the occasional, dreaded, full-body itch. The other morning, I was literally woken from my slumber (rude) by my skin just begging to be scratched, so I went straight to the bathroom to slather myself in La Roche-Posay's Lipikar AP+ Cream. The itching went away almost immediately, which I see as a testament to just how soothing and reparative this lipid-enriched formula really is. It's great if you have tattoos, sure, but it's also great for anyone with eczema, generally dry or sensitive skin, or anyone just looking to get a little hydration boost without feeling slippery or sticky afterward.” —Nicola Dall'Asen, senior news editor

    More to know

    AccordionItemContainerButtonLargeChevron

    • Key ingredients: ceramides, shea butter, niacinamide, glycerin
    • Fragrance-free: yes

    Best Body Lotion: Aestura Atobarrier 365 Lotion

    Aestura Atobarrier 365 Ceramide Lotion white and blue bottle of lotion with red Allure Best of Beauty seal in the top right cornerSave to wishlistSave to wishlist

    Aestura

    Atobarrier 365 Ceramide Lotion

    $32

    Amazon

    $32

    Sephora

    Allure commerce producer Sarah Hoffmann applying the Aestura Atobarrier 365 Lotion

    Sarah Hoffmann

    Why it’s worth it: Aestura’s Atobarrier 365 Lotion has been one of our favorite face moisturizers for years (it won a 2024 Allure Best of Beauty Award, after all)—but it doubles as an incredibly effective body lotion, too. That’s thanks to an ingredient list stacked with hydrating glycerin and squalane, plus ceramides and cholesterol that, together, lock moisture in to keep skin smooth and soothed all day long. There’s also niacinamide to strengthen your skin barrier, which tends to take a major beating in the winter. The lightweight, non-sticky formula is fragrance-free and won a Seal of Acceptance from the National Eczema Association, so it’s safe for people with eczema or sensitive skin to use (more on what this means below). Apply it wherever skin looks rough or lackluster, and relish in the relief.

    Tester feedback from commerce producer Sarah Hoffmann

    AccordionItemContainerButtonLargeChevron

    "If I ever magically became low maintenance, this lotion would be a key player in my pared-down routine. I love how it works on my face, and I've recently come around to using it on my body, and it's equally excellent for both. The texture borders on watery, so it absorbs quickly and doesn't feel greasy or heavy. My skin is generally sensitive to fragrance and richer formulas, so I love how gentle this lotion is while still being very hydrating and soothing." —Sarah Hoffman, commerce producer

    More to know

    AccordionItemContainerButtonLargeChevron

    • Key ingredients: glycerin, squalane, cholesterol, niacinamide, ceramides
    • Fragrance-free: yes

    Best Body Butter: OSEA Undaria Algae Body Butter

    Osea Undaria Algae Body Butter in branded tub component on a light gray backgroundSave to wishlistSave to wishlist

    Osea

    Undaria Algae Body Butter

    $54

    Amazon

    $54

    Nordstrom

    $54

    Ulta Beauty

    Allure creative producer Sydney Malone applying the OSEA Undaria Algae Body Butter

    Sydney Malone

    Why it’s worth it: We can’t be coy: OSEA’s Undaria Algae Body Butter is our favorite body butter of all time. The formula contains a winning combination of highly moisturizing grape and meadowfoam seed oils for more supple skin. It even targets signs of aging, with undaria seaweed extract and caffeine that can firm skin over time. And hydrating glycerin and soothing aloe vera put in the work to smooth over any irritation. While the formula is extra-thick, it absorbs instantly and doesn’t leave any residue behind—instead, skin looks glowy and feels noticeably softer. Slather it on before bed, enjoy the spa-like grapefruit, lime, and citrus scent (the same as in the brand’s signature body oil, if you’re familiar), and wake up to silky skin that lasts for up to 72 hours.

    Tester feedback from creative producer Sydney Malone

    AccordionItemContainerButtonLargeChevron

    “This body butter smells absolutely divine—it's got a mild enough scent as to not overwhelm, but rather to make you feel luxurious and moisturized. I appreciate how thick this cream is because with just one application, I feel like I wouldn't need to use body lotion again until tomorrow! Perfect for dry or winter weather, especially for us dry skin girlies.” —Sydney Malone, creative producer

    More to know

    AccordionItemContainerButtonLargeChevron

    • Key ingredients: shea butter, glycerin, aloe vera, caffeine, grape seed oil, meadowfoam seed oil
    • Fragrance-free: no

    Best Body Oil: Oui the People Featherweight Hydrating Body Gloss

    Oui the People Featherweight Hydrating Body Gloss in branded component on a light gray background with best of beauty 2024 seal in the top right cornerSave to wishlistSave to wishlist

    Oui the People

    Featherweight Hydrating Body Gloss

    $65

    Amazon

    $65

    Nordstrom

    $65

    Sephora

    Allure associate beauty editor Annie Blay-Tettey applying the Oui the People Featherweight Hydrating Body Gloss

    Annie Blay-Tettey

    Why it’s worth it: Another Best of Beauty Award winner, Oui the People’s Featherweight Hydrating Body Gloss has continued to impress us with its lightweight consistency and fresh, citrus-meets-floral scent. It delivers an instant glow, as plant-derived squalane and a host of antioxidant-packed oils (avocado, safflower seed, pumpkin seed, and pomegranate seed, to name a few) create a layer of protection that locks in moisture for that plump look and soft feel. Another key player: rosehip seed oil, which contains beta-carotene that turns into vitamin A, supporting collagen production for brighter, more even-toned skin. Wear this gloss alone or underneath one of our other picks for maximum moisturizing potential.

    BlayTettey before applying the Oui the People Featherweight Hydrating Body Gloss

    Blay-Tettey before applying the Oui the People Featherweight Hydrating Body Gloss

    Annie Blay-TetteyBlayTettey after applying the Oui the People Featherweight Hydrating Body Gloss

    Blay-Tettey after applying the Oui the People Featherweight Hydrating Body Gloss

    Annie Blay-Tettey

    Tester feedback from associate beauty editor Annie Blay-Tettey

    AccordionItemContainerButtonLargeChevron

    "I love how lightweight this body oil is. It gives my skin a pretty sheen without leaving a greasy finish. Plus, the subtle citrus scent lingers on my skin long after application." —Annie Blay-Tettey, associate beauty editor

    More to know

    AccordionItemContainerButtonLargeChevron

    • Key ingredients: squalane, avocado oil, safflower seed oil, pumpkin seed oil, pomegranate seed oil, rosehip seed oil
    • Fragrance-free: no

    Best Serum: Cyklar Ceramide Milky Essence

    Cyklar Ceramide Milky Essence in branded component on a light gray backgroundSave to wishlistSave to wishlist

    Cyklar

    Ceramide Milky Essence

    $30

    Amazon

    $30

    Cyklar

    Allure senior commerce director Shanna Shipin applying the Cyklar Ceramide Milky Essence

    Shanna Shipin

    Why it’s worth it: We’re big fans of hyaluronic acid—but Cyklar’s Ceramide Milky Essence takes things to the next level with polyglutamic acid, which holds onto four times as much moisture. Classic dry skin saviors ceramides (five kinds!) and squalane make an appearance, too, for plush skin that’s ready for a close-up. Add to that urea, a hard-to-find ingredient that “binds water and pulls it into the skin, where it belongs, and kicks cracked, dead skin cells to the curb,” according to Washington, D.C.-based dermatologist Adam Friedman, plus amino acids that support the creation of collagen and elastin, and you get a lightweight serum that restores skin without any dreaded sticky feel. The thin formula is meant to be layered underneath other body products, so consider this the first step in your post-everything-shower routine. Bonus: It’s fragrance-free, making it a great option for sensitive types.

    Tester feedback from senior commerce director Shanna Shipin

    AccordionItemContainerButtonLargeChevron

    “When it comes to winter skin care, I usually don’t reach for a thick or heavy moisturizer to replace an item in my routine. Instead, I layer in a lightweight serum with hydration-forward ingredients to get me through the season. My favorite new addition to my winter routine is Cyklar's Ceramide Milky Essence. I apply the thin, milky formula all over my body when I get out of the shower or need to rehydrate my skin during the day—just as you would apply a facial serum before a moisturizer! There are so many great ingredients in this product, but the highlights for me are ceramides (hello, barrier repair!), urea (to hydrate and help lightly exfoliate), and squalane to help lock in moisture. It creates the best base for layering my body butter or lotion on top. The only drawback for me is the dispenser. I find that too much milk comes out of the top, unless I’m being very careful. If there were a more targeted dispenser, I would take this essence with me wherever I went.” —Shanna Shipin, senior commerce director

    More to know

    AccordionItemContainerButtonLargeChevron

    • Key ingredients: ceramides, urea, amino acids, squalane, polyglutamic acid
    • Fragrance-free: yes

    Best for Itchy Skin: Kiehl’s Ultra Body Mega Moisture Squalane Cream

    Kiehl’s Ultra Body Mega Moisture Squalane Cream in branded white jar on light gray background with red Allure Best of Beauty seal in the top right cornerSave to wishlistSave to wishlist

    Kiehl's Since 1851

    Ultra Body Mega Moisture Squalane Cream

    $49

    Amazon

    $49

    Nordstrom

    $49

    Ulta Beauty

    Allure contributing commerce editor Deanna Pai applying the Kiehl’s Ultra Body Mega Moisture Squalane Cream

    Deanna Pai

    Why it’s worth it: Don’t let its airy, fluffy texture fool you—Kiehl’s Ultra Body Mega Moisture Squalane Cream is deeply effective (so much so that we gave it a Best of Beauty Award last year). It also earned a National Eczema Association Seal of Acceptance for its formula, packed with squalane and ceramides that wrap itchy, irritated skin in a layer of moisture. Another standout: ectoin, an amino acid that helps your skin cells fight against environmental stress and heal from damage, board-certified dermatologist Karan Lal, MD, told Allure. The brand notes that it’s also a good choice for those with psoriasis and rosacea—basically, almost any type of flare-up you might have.

    Tester feedback from contributing commerce editor Deanna Pai

    AccordionItemContainerButtonLargeChevron

    “Moisturizing from head to toe is non-negotiable—or else my skin gets so itchy that it wakes me up in the middle of the night. I’ve used a lot of body butters, some better than others, but what sets this apart is its whipped texture, which is nourishing enough to keep me from scratching, but sinks in immediately. It’s been a godsend as the temperatures rise, since I don’t have to worry about waiting for it to absorb. And a little goes a long way, so I’m hoping the tub lasts me through summer.” —Deanna Pai, contributing commerce editor

    More to know

    AccordionItemContainerButtonLargeChevron

    • Key ingredients: squalane, ceramides, shea butter, ectoin, salicylic acid
    • Fragrance-free: yes

    Best Scented Lotion: Saltair Santal Bloom Body Butter

    Saltair Santal Bloom Multi-Lipid Body Butter in clear beige jar with twist cap on light gray background with red Allure Best of Beauty seal in the top right cornerSave to wishlistSave to wishlist

    Saltair

    Santal Bloom Body Butter

    $21

    Amazon

    $21

    Ulta Beauty

    Allure former content director Kara McGrath applying the Saltair Santal Bloom Body Butter

    Why it’s worth it: Not sensitive to scents? Consider Saltair’s Santal Bloom Body Butter. The formula features a blend of five ceramides and fatty acids that help reinforce the skin barrier, plus coconut and sea buckthorn oils to keep skin looking soft and healthy. We also can’t get enough of the warm, sandalwood-forward scent, which sticks around for hours after application. It’s part of what’s earned this body butter a Best of Beauty Award—that, and how well it softens dry, rough skin.

    Tester feedback from former content director Kara McGrath

    AccordionItemContainerButtonLargeChevron

    “This smells like a fancy spa, but it only costs 21 bucks. It starts out (olfactorily) strong with a coconut butter base, which creates a slightly sweet foundation on top of which sit notes of sandalwood, rose, and jasmine. The result is a light, floral scent that lasts for hours and layers well with other scented products.” —Kara McGrath, former content director

    More to know

    AccordionItemContainerButtonLargeChevron

    • Key ingredients: ceramides, sea buckthorn oil, glycerin
    • Fragrance-free: no

    Best for Keratosis Pilaris: Topicals Slather Exfoliating Body Serum

    Topicals Slather Exfoliating Body Serum in branded tube component on a light gray backgroundSave to wishlistSave to wishlist

    Topicals

    Slather Exfoliating Body Serum

    $30

    Amazon

    $30

    Sephora

    Why it’s worth it: This lightweight serum isn’t a traditional body moisturizer (you’ll likely need to layer it underneath a thicker cream), but it can offer relief from KP and other pesky body bumps. Keratosis pilaris (KP)—tiny bumps of keratin build-up, usually on the back of your arms or thighs—tends to flare up in the winter, notes New York City-based board-certified dermatologist David Kim, MD, due to the dry air indoors and out. Topicals’ Slather Exfoliating Body Serum, a two-time Best of Beauty Award winner, tackles both with a potent combination of lactic acid, glycolic acid, urea, and retinol. "Lactic acid is great for KP because it loosens cells over time to gently exfoliate skin," New York City-based board-certified dermatologist Doris Day, MD, told Allure. "It's also a humectant, which means it will add moisture and minimize irritation." Meanwhile, retinol smooths and tones, for firmer-looking skin come morning.

    Tester feedback from commerce editor Sarah Han

    AccordionItemContainerButtonLargeChevron

    “I know winter’s rearing its ugly head when I spot clumps of bumps on my legs. After a trip to Seoul in blistery January weather, I noticed two especially rough patches near both knees and knew a regular moisturizer wasn’t going to cut it. I’ve only heard great things about Tropicals Slather and was excited to give it a whirl, especially because it has urea, a derm-touted ingredient that provides very gentle exfoliation, as well as encapsulated retinol and AHAs (lactic and glycolic). While it sounds like an intense mix, I didn’t experience any irritation and felt my bumps almost melt away the next day. (To be clear, nothing topical can cure KP, but it can make your skin dang smooth like Slather does!) The texture is very much a lightweight serum, which I personally prefer over heavier, buttery textures, and all around fast-absorbing. And, due to the fact that I’m wearing pants every single day, I don’t have to worry about UV sensitivity as I normally would with all of these actives!” —Sarah Han, commerce editor

    More to know

    AccordionItemContainerButtonLargeChevron

    • Key ingredients: lactic acid, glycolic acid, urea, retinol, squalane, glycerin
    • Fragrance-free: yes

    Best for Eczema: Vanicream Moisturizing Cream

    Vanicream Moisturizing Cream in branded blue and white jar with pump on light gray backgroundSave to wishlistSave to wishlist

    Vanicream

    Moisturizing Cream

    $16 $14 (13% off)

    Amazon

    $21

    Ulta Beauty

    Why it’s worth it: Eczema can flare with a vengeance during the winter, since drier air saps moisture from your skin, leaving it more vulnerable to environmental stressors (and causing inflammation). Vanicream Moisturizing Cream, another National Eczema Association Seal of Acceptance winner, gently calms red, scaly skin with no-frills ingredients that get the job done. Humectants like sorbitol draw water in, emollients like cetearyl alcohol moisturize, and occlusives like petrolatum keep water from escaping, so skin feels smoother and looks healthier. It’s free from fragrance and lanolin, another common moisturizer ingredient that can cause irritation for some people with sensitive skin.

    Tester feedback from senior commerce editor Sarah Felbin

    AccordionItemContainerButtonLargeChevron

    “I have super-sensitive skin and eczema on my face and neck that tends to flare up when it’s cold outside. I’ve tried tons of moisturizers, but Vanicream is the one I always go back to. It’s extremely gentle, and I love that the formula feels rich and thick without feeling sticky. It’s truly the only cream that can calm my picky, irritated skin. One large tub (with a handy pump—no mess!) lasts me all winter long.” —Sarah Felbin, senior commerce editor

    More to know

    AccordionItemContainerButtonLargeChevron

    • Key ingredients: petrolatum, sorbitol (a humectant), cetearyl alcohol (an emollient)
    • Fragrance-free: yes

    Best for Mature Skin: Moroccanoil Night Body Serum

    Moroccanoil Night Body Serum orange bottle of body serum on light gray backgroundSave to wishlistSave to wishlist

    Moroccanoil

    Night Body Serum

    $38

    Amazon

    $38

    Nordstrom

    $38

    Ulta Beauty

    Why it’s worth it: If your dry skin is also looking lax and crepey, Moroccanoil’s Night Body Serum is worth the investment. The brand’s signature ingredient, argan oil, nourishes skin, while tsubaki oil firms skin over time. Skin not only looks glowy right after you apply it, but vitamin C ester also helps brighten for more even tone over time. The formula also includes holy basil extract, which contains antioxidants to protect against environmental stress. Slather a few pumps on before you crawl into bed and wake up to glowing, healthy skin (no dry patches in sight).

    Tester feedback from features director Dianna Singh

    AccordionItemContainerButtonLargeChevron

    “So many body serums seem to sit on top of my skin and never fully soak in, which feels—to put it mildly—rather unpleasant. Moroccanoil Night Body Serum is a welcome exception: The silky formula melts in immediately. I like to apply it after an evening shower, then slip into my jammies. The next morning, my skin is softer, smoother, and all-around happier for it.” —Dianna Singh, features director

    More to know

    AccordionItemContainerButtonLargeChevron

    • Key ingredients: argan oil, holy basil extract, tsubaki oil, vitamin C ester
    • Fragrance-free: no

    Frequently Asked Questions

    What causes dry skin during winter?

    During winter, it’s colder and less humid out—in these conditions, your skin produces less sebum and retains less water, making it drier. Your skin barrier also doesn’t function as well, meaning "skin might look and feel rough, dull, flaky, inflamed, red, and itchy," New York-based dermatologist Kenneth Mark, MD, told Allure. Luckily, using the right moisturizer—something soothing that will replenish the lipids your skin is missing—can help.

    Which body moisturizer is best for dry skin in winter?

    While there’s a time and place for lightweight, water-based moisturizers, in winter, look for products with a thicker texture and a higher oil content, suggests Day. Pro tip: To get the most out of any body lotion, cream, or serum, apply it to damp skin, which helps it absorb better. "Studies have shown that moisturizing immediately after bathing is significantly better than not applying moisturizer at all or applying it long after showering," New York City-based board-certified dermatologist Joshua Zeichner, MD, told Allure.

    Also key: If you have sensitive skin, allergies, or conditions like rosacea, eczema, or psoriasis, make sure your moisturizer doesn’t contain any alcohol and is fragrance-free. “Fragrance-free body lotions benefit sensitive skin by eliminating potentially irritating synthetic fragrances and masking agents that can trigger allergic reactions, contact dermatitis, and skin barrier disruption,” Pooja Rambhia, MD, a board-certified dermatologist at UnionDerm in New York City, told Allure. Look for a blue seal that says, “Accepted by the National Eczema Foundation” as you shop—these moisturizers have been vetted and approved by a panel of doctors for people with eczema.

    If you’ve been slathering on creams and you’re still not noticing a difference in your skin, Dr. Zeichner says tiny cracks in your skin might be causing inflammation that a regular lotion just can’t fix. Check in with your doctor or dermatologist—you may need an over-the-counter or prescription cortisone cream to find relief, he says.

    Meet the Experts

    • Stephanie Saxton-Daniels, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in Dallas
    • Karan Lal, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in Scottsdale, Arizona, and New York City
    • Adam Friedman, a dermatologist based in Washington, D.C.
    • Ginger King, a cosmetic chemist
    • David Kim, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in New York City
    • Kenneth Mark, MD, a dermatologist based in New York City
    • Doris Day, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in New York City
    • Pooja Rambhia, MD, a board-certified dermatologist at UnionDerm in New York City
    • Joshua Zeichner, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in New York City

    How we test and review products

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

    For our list of the best body moisturizers for winter, 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 of in-house writers and editors, as well as contributors, along with special consideration from makeup artists and dermatologists. To learn more about 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 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.

  • The ’90s Fluffy Bob Will Make You Excited to Get a Silk Press

    The ’90s Fluffy Bob Will Make You Excited to Get a Silk Press

    Lori Harvey Laura Harrier Gabrielle Union — '90s Fluffy Bob trendGetty ImagesSave StorySave this storySave StorySave this story

    One of the best compliments I’ve ever received was being told that I looked “’90s fine.” My then-boyfriend said it as we were heading out for date night, and I knew exactly what he meant: that effortless, low-key sultry energy embodied by icons such as Halle Berry, Naomi Campbell, and Nia Long during that era. You might think the praise was referring to my outfit, but it had nothing to do with what I was wearing—it was for my hair. I had a freshly pressed, softly curled, fluffy bob that moved like silk, and conveyed just the right amount of drama.

    “Bounce, volume, and playfulness are the hallmarks of the fluffy bob,” says Brenton Diallo, a hairstylist at Benjamin Salon in New York City, who’s been working behind the chair since the early ’90s. He recalls clients routinely bringing in photos of the great Whitney Houston and Tisha Campbell as reference points.

    Halle Berry'90s Fluffy BobGetty Images

    “Soft, strategic layers are what give this cut its movement and fullness while keeping it light and bouncy,” says Alex Vann, a hairstylist and salon owner in Duluth, Georgia. “What makes it special is the lift at the root and those soft bends throughout the hair. It’s polished, touchable, and frames the face beautifully while still feeling effortless,” she adds.

    Lead stylist at Twelve12 Salon, @hair.journies styling a fluffy bob.

    Instagram / @twelve12salon

    According to Diallo, the look was partly shaped by the tools of the era; heat-styling technology wasn’t as advanced at achieving pin-straight results on textured hair, so a silk press in the ’90s often yielded airy volume and soft fullness rather than the glassy, ultra-sleek finish that’s common today.

    As trends tend to do, the fluffy bob has circled back around into the spotlight, though you could argue it never really left. Recently, Beyoncé debuted a bouncy, jaw-skimming blonde bob that promptly sent the internet into a tizzy. And if history tells us anything, her co-sign alone is enough to propel a hairstyle straight into trend territory. Says Vann, “That’s the energy we’re channeling with today’s fluffy bob, nostalgic but modernized.”

    Ahead, pro hairstylists share their techniques for achieving this timeless look, plus the best tips for making your fluffy bob last as long as possible.

    How to get a fluffy bob

    “The cut itself is the foundation of the style,” Vann says. “To achieve the fluffy bob properly, soft layers must be added to create body, volume, and natural movement.” The stylist recommends booking an appointment for a layered bob haircut and bringing in reference images to communicate the exact look you want. After your cut (which usually happens after the hair has been washed and blown out), a classic silk press and pin-curl set (the large curls created with a barrel wand and held in place by clips) is the styling method that brings the fluffy bob to life.

    According to both Vann and Diallo, the key to getting a great silk press actually begins at the shampoo bowl. “I always start with a clarifying shampoo to remove product buildup,” says Diallo. As for me, I typically reach for the Olaplex No. 4C because it strips away product without leaving my hair feeling parched.

    Then, Diallo suggests, reach for a moisturizing shampoo. He “sometimes shampoos with this formula twice,” he explains, “to make sure the hair is thoroughly cleansed.” Residual buildup can completely sabotage your entire style, as it leads to a stiff, crunchy press instead of the soft, fluid movement a fluffy bob requires.

    Diallo prefers the Davines OI Hair Softening Shampoo as his moisturizing formula. He used it on me recently, and I understood why: It leaves hair incredibly silky, and smells just as luxurious. At Vann’s salon, she relies on Pureology to achieve a clean and healthy base before styling: “We love Pureology shampoos and conditioners because they keep the hair strong and soft without weighing it down,” she says.

    Youtube / @deeperthanhairtv

    After the hair has been washed and conditioned, detangle and divide it into sections—six to eight is ideal, especially for thicker textures. Spritz on a heat protectant (Diallo stays in the Davines family, using the OI All-in-One Milk, which hydrates the hair, controls frizz, and preps the strands for heat). Next, blow-dry your hair in sections using either a comb attachment (I swear by the wide-tooth attachment on the Dyson Supersonic blow-dryer) or a Denman brush with a traditional dryer to stretch the hair. Both techniques create a soft, voluminous blowout; it simply comes down to personal preference and control. Vann prefers to use a round-brush blow-dryer, “lifting at the root and slightly over-directing sections for bounce,” she explains.

    Diallo recommends using a hot comb or a pencil-thin flatiron at the roots and hairline only, leaving the lengths largely untouched. “Once I’ve straightened the roots, I’ll use a curling iron to create a full pin-curl set,” he says. Both Diallo and Vann prefer the added lift a 1-1⁄2-inch barrel curling iron provides. For a fluffy bob, the goal isn’t pin-straight sleekness but buoyant movement, so skipping an allover flatiron helps preserve airy volume while still smoothing frizz and texture. Vann says this is “the key is to create soft bends, not tight curls, and alternate directions for that effortless feel.”

    Blonde fluffy silk pressInstagram / @thealexvannexperience

    After the pin curls cool and set, take them down, and coat your hands with a lightweight oil. Diallo reaches for the Matrix Food for Soft Oil to seal in moisture. “I gently shake out the curls with my hands before shaping with a wide-tooth comb,” he says.

    The result is playful and touchable—a style meant to be flipped, tousled, and lived in. In fact, the more you move it around, the better it looks.

    How to style and maintain a fluffy bob at home

    One of the best things about a fluffy bob is that it requires minimal styling after the initial appointment—but proper maintenance is essential. “Every night, pin curl your hair and wear a bonnet with a silk band or a silk scarf to protect your edges,” says Diallo. When you remove the pins each morning, the curls should fall effortlessly, framing your face with soft, fluid waves that settle naturally as you shake your head.

    If you stick to this routine, Diallo says, your fluffy bob should hold for about a week. Vann says you can even go two weeks, depending on your hair texture. Coarser hair types will likely revert faster. As the hair returns to its natural texture, the bob takes on an even fluffier, more lived-in look—think blowout rather than a polished silk press—which has its own charm. Stylists are already predicting that this airy, touchable style will be one of the defining hair trends of 2026.

    From red carpet classics to Instagram-ready crops, these are the fluffy bobs I’m saving for the next time I want that ‘wow’ factor.

    Fluffy Bob Inspiration

    Gabrielle Union '90s Fluffy BobGetty ImagesFluffy '90s BobGetty ImagesFluffy '90s BobGetty ImagesFluffy '90s BobGetty Images'90s Fluffy BobGetty Images'90s Fluffy BobGetty ImagesSinger Raye wearing a fluffy bobGetty ImagesZendaya brown hair  '90s fluffy bobGetty Images

  • Long-Lasting Body and Bounce Start With These Hair Volumizers

    Long-Lasting Body and Bounce Start With These Hair Volumizers

    Shanna Shipin using Chris McMillan mousse and other productsCollage: Jemeria Davison; Source images: Courtesy of Allure editors and brandsSave StorySave this storySave StorySave this story

    The best volumizing hair products can be lifesavers for second-day styling, deflated blowouts, and flatness-prone strands. Mousses, sprays, and powders (oh, my!) add dimension and texture to hair that needs a boost, using ingredients like polymers, copolymers, and resins to restore your long-lost zhuzh. Still, you don't need fine or flat hair to benefit from a volumizing hair product. Even people with naturally fuller hair can use these formulas to amp up volume and bounce for that just-left-the-salon look that lasts for days. Interest piqued? Keep scrolling to discover our favorite hair volumizing products to give that crown some well-deserved lift.

    Our Top Volumizing Hair Products

    • Best Overall: Crown Affair The Air Dry Texturizing Air Dry Mousse, $38
    • Most Long-Lasting Hold: Hours Full-Time Plumping Mousse, $27
    • Best Heat Protectant: Olaplex Volumizing Blow Dry Mist, $32
    • Best for Fine Hair: K18 Biomimetic Hairscience AstroLift Reparative Volume Spray, $46
    • Best for Second-Day Refreshes: Dae Fairy Blaster Texturizing Spray, $30
    • Best for Curls: Chris McMillan The Hair Mousse for Bouncy Volume, $36
    • Best for Oily Hair: Oribe Dry Texturizing Spray, $52
    • Best for Frizz: Davines OI Soufflé, $50

    Frequently Asked QuestionsAccordionItemContainerButtonLargeChevron

    • What does a volumizing hair product do?
    • How do I choose a volumizing hair product?
    • What should I avoid in a volumizing hair product?
    • Meet the experts
    • How we test and review products
    • Our staff and testers

    Best Overall: Crown Affair The Air Dry Texturizing Air Dry Mousse

    Image may contain: Bottle, Cosmetics, and ShakerSave to wishlistSave to wishlist

    Crown Affair

    The Air Dry Texturizing Air Dry Mousse

    $38

    Sephora

    $38

    Violet Grey

    Allure social media manager Bianca Richards after applying the Crown Affair The Air Dry Texturizing Air Dry Mousse

    Why it’s worth it: Don’t let the word “mousse” scare you away—Crown Affair’s The Air Dry Texturizing Air Dry Mousse always leaves strands feeling flexible and soft, which is partly why it won a 2024 Allure Best of Beauty Award. Infused with nourishing tsubaki meadow oil, texturizing pink salt, and a plant blend of kale, carrot, and lemon extracts that, together, strengthen and add moisture, this featherlight formula hydrates, de-frizzes, and disappears upon contact—though the results stick around for hours. “It's perfect for enhancing curls, giving you good volume and a strong hold that will last,” Katelyn Ellsworth, a hairstylist based in San Diego, CA, told Allure. It’s our go-to for days when we skip heat styling, but still want natural movement and airy volume. When it’s time to re-style your hair the next day, you can brush right through your strands without worrying about any leftover stickiness or residue.

    Image may contain Face Head Person Bottle Shaker Body Part Finger and Hand

    Richards before applying the Crown Affair The Air Dry Texturizing Air Dry Mousse

    Allure social media manager Bianca Richards after applying the Crown Affair The Air Dry Texturizing Air Dry Mousse

    Richards after applying the Crown Affair The Air Dry Texturizing Air Dry Mousse

    Bianca Richards

    Tester feedback from social media manager Bianca Richards

    AccordionItemContainerButtonLargeChevron

    “I love how seamlessly the Crown Affair The Texturizing Air Dry Hair Mousse fits into my low-maintenance, low-effort haircare routine, and it leaves my hair looking the best I've ever felt in my natural state. It’s a super low-lift way to achieve that effortless, undone look. Unlike other mousses, it doesn’t leave your hair feeling crunchy—which is the best part!” —Bianca Richards, social media manager

    Tester feedback from senior commerce director Shanna Shipin

    AccordionItemContainerButtonLargeChevron

    “My thick hair is incredibly stubborn about maintaining volume at the roots and body throughout the day, but this mousse does what was previously impossible: It provides a natural, flexible hold (absolutely no crunch!) that sends my curls into juicy, hydrated spirals, giving my hair an allover plumping effect. It's the manifestation of va-va-voom for air-dried hair.” —Shanna Shipin, senior commerce director

    More to know

    AccordionItemContainerButtonLargeChevron

    • Key ingredients: tsbukai meadow oil, pink salt, plant protein blend (kale, carrot, lemon)
    • Who it's good for: those who like to air-dry their hair
    • Fragrance-free: no

    Most Long-Lasting Hold: Hours Full-Time Plumping Mousse

    Hours Full-Time Plumping Mousse in branded component on a light gray backgroundSave to wishlistSave to wishlist

    Hours

    Full-Time Plumping Mousse

    $27

    Amazon

    $27

    Nordstrom

    Why it's worth it: The lightweight, foamy, and soft-but-mighty Hours Full-Time Plumping Mousse won an Allure Best of Beauty Award in 2023 and 2024 for its all-day staying power. The formula leans on fatty acids derived from castor oil to help hydrate the scalp and reinforce each strand, creating a good foundation for volume. Once dispensed, the airy propellants in the formula expand and then evaporate, giving the roots a subtle lift as your hair dries. That expansion acts almost like scaffolding, encouraging strands to stand taller. Then, humectants like propylene glycol and butylene glycol draw in moisture, plumping the hair shaft so it looks and feels thicker.

    Allure commerce producer Sarah Hoffmann before applying the Hours FullTime Plumping Mousse

    Allure commerce producer Sarah Hoffmann before applying the Hours Full-Time Plumping Mousse

    Sarah HoffmannHoffmann before applying the Hours FullTime Plumping Mousse

    Hoffmann after applying the Hours Full-Time Plumping Mousse

    Sarah Hoffmann

    Tester feedback from commerce producer Sarah Hoffmann

    AccordionItemContainerButtonLargeChevron

    "Listen, mousse was a dirty word to me for the majority of my life—I did my time in the crunchy curl trenches in middle school—but I've done a full 180 since discovering Hours Plumping Mousse. My hair retains a ton of water post-shower and gets weighed down super easily, but adding two pumps of this to wet hair inflates my hair like a freakin' balloon. It's also responsible for the longest-lasting blowout I've ever had—it's literally a miracle product to me." —Sarah Hoffmann, commerce producer

    More to know

    AccordionItemContainerButtonLargeChevron

    • Key ingredients: propylene glycol, castor oil, sodium polyitaconate
    • Who it's good for: those with flat, fine hair that gets weighed down easily
    • Fragrance-free: no

    Best Heat Protectant: Olaplex Volumizing Blow Dry Mist

    blow dry mist in branded white bottle with spray pump on light gray background with red and white 2024 allure best of beauty sealSave to wishlistSave to wishlist

    Olaplex

    Volumizing Blow Dry Mist

    $32

    Ulta

    Allure senior news editor Nicola Dall’Asen applying the Olaplex Volumizing Blow Dry Mist

    Why it's worth it: No bouncy blowout is complete without a good heat protectant, like Olaplex’s Volumizing Blow Dry Mist. This 2024 Allure Best of Beauty Award winner safeguards your strands from temperatures up to 450 degrees Fahrenheit while wrapping them in a barely-there veil of defense. Bamboo extract lipopeptides form a weightless, protective film that helps fortify the hair fiber. Pea peptides and jackfruit polysaccharides join the mix to boost hydration and encourage airy lift, minus the frizz. The finish is touchably soft and completely invisible, for hair that looks naturally sky-high.

    Tester feedback from senior news editor Nicola Dall’Asen

    AccordionItemContainerButtonLargeChevron

    "That any product could create volume on my superfine, color-treated hair is a damn miracle, which means Olaplex's Volumizing Blow Dry Mist is basically a religious deity in my eyes. With a few hearty spritzes of this lightweight spray along my hairline and in my roots—plus some elbow grease with a round brush, of course—I can at last achieve a style that makes me look like I have more hair than I actually do." —Nicola Dall’Asen, senior news editor

    More to know

    AccordionItemContainerButtonLargeChevron

    • Key ingredients: bamboo extract, pea peptides, radish root ferment
    • Who it's good for: people who style with heat regularly
    • Fragrance-free: no

    Best for Fine Hair: K18 Biomimetic Hairscience AstroLift Reparative Volume Spray

    K18 Biomimetic Hairscience AstroLift Reparative Volume Spray in branded component on a light gray backgroundSave to wishlistSave to wishlist

    K18

    Biomimetic Hairscience AstroLift Reparative Volume Spray

    $46

    Amazon

    $46

    Sephora

    Allure features director Dianna Singh applying the K18 AstroLift Reparative Volume Spray

    Dianna Singh

    Why it’s worth it: Powered by the brand’s biotech-backed peptide complex called K18peptide, which mimics the natural structure of keratin, the Allure Best of Beauty Award-winning Biomimetic Hairscience AstroLift Reparative Volume Spray does more than just add volume. A few spritzes boost fullness while repairing damage and reducing breakage. According to Eddie M. Parra, a hairstylist in New York City, it delivers a conditioning effect (thanks, red algae) without sacrificing lift. And, it has two-day hair memory, so the volume lasts for up to 48 hours whether you apply it on damp or dry hair (it goes on completely invisible either way).

    Singh before applying the K18 AstroLift Reparative Volume Spray

    Singh before applying the K18 AstroLift Reparative Volume Spray

    Dianna SinghSingh after applying the K18 AstroLift Reparative Volume Spray

    Singh after applying the K18 AstroLift Reparative Volume Spray

    Dianna Singh

    Tester feedback from features director Dianna Singh

    AccordionItemContainerButtonLargeChevron

    "I've tried a lot of volumizers in my day, and I've found a handful that deliver oomph immediately—but very few that add volume that lasts. This spray is one of those rare gems: I apply it in damp hair, blow-dry, and then enjoy the extra bounce well into the following day." —Dianna Singh, features director

    More to know

    AccordionItemContainerButtonLargeChevron

    • Key ingredients: red algae, arginine, K18peptide, polymers
    • Who it's good for: flat, damaged hair
    • Fragrance-free: no

    Best for Second-Day (or Third-Day) Refreshes: Dae Fairy Blaster Texturizing Spray

    Dae Fairy Blaster Texturizing Spray in branded component on a light gray backgroundSave to wishlistSave to wishlist

    Dae

    Fairy Blaster Texturizing Spray

    $30

    Sephora

    Allure managing editor Alessandra Foresto applying the Dae Fairy Blaster Texturizing Spray

    Alessandra Foresto

    Why it’s worth it: Dae’s Fairy Blaster Texturizing Spray absorbs oil at the roots, making it a great pick for hair that hasn’t been washed in…a few days. But, unlike a dry shampoo, it also adds lift at your roots and bounce throughout the entire hair shaft with zeolite, a volcanic material known to add volume and cleanse the scalp. One spray gives hair a light refresh, while three-plus sprays offer more volume and zhuzh. It features yucca stem extract, indica seed oil, moringa leaf extract, and glycerin, all of which protect hair from environmental damage, improve softness and manageability, reduce breakage, and add shine.

    Foresto before applying the Dae Fairy Blaster Texturizing Spray

    Foresto before applying the Dae Fairy Blaster Texturizing Spray

    Alessandra ForestoForesto after applying the Dae Fairy Blaster Texturizing Spray

    Foresto after applying the Dae Fairy Blaster Texturizing Spray

    Alessandra Foresto

    Tester feedback from managing editor Alessandra Foresto

    AccordionItemContainerButtonLargeChevron

    “I've been using this spray on day two and three after a wash to give my hair a boost of volume and soak up some oil from my roots. I'm seriously impressed by how much volume a few spritzes of this spray creates. After having my hair in a bun overnight, I like to spray it and tousle my hair and roots to make my waves even bigger. Other times, I spray it on my flatiron-made curls and I find they get a nice beachy look.

    The spray bottle is powerful and a little bit goes a long way to give your hair serious lift and texture. It also adds grip to hair so my lackluster French pinning abilities can be more easily hidden. Unlike other texturizing sprays, I find that results last all day and my hair does not fall flat after a few hours. The spray features Dae's nice signature citrus scent too!” —Alessandra Foresto, managing editor

    More to know

    AccordionItemContainerButtonLargeChevron

    • Key ingredients: yucca stem extract, indica seed oil, and moringa leaf extract, glycerin
    • Who it's good for: oily, flat hair
    • Fragrance-free: no

    Best for Curls: Chris McMillan The Hair Mousse

    Chris McMillan The Hair Mousse in branded component on a light gray backgroundSave to wishlistSave to wishlist

    Chris McMillan

    The Hair Mousse

    $36

    Sephora

    Shipin applying the Chris McMillan The Hair Mousse

    Shanna Shipin

    Why it’s worth it: Chris McMillan’s The Hair Mousse is designed to help you recreate the stylist’s signature lift—no salon appointment required. Lightweight and airy, it’s made with curly hair in mind, giving coils instant volume and bounce while providing heat protection for diffuser days. The result? A soft, tousled texture with long-lasting hold—no crunch, no touch-ups, just effortless body that lasts. Infused with pine cone and mushroom extracts, the mousse also soothes the scalp and helps repair split ends, giving your curls a much-needed reset.

    Shipin before applying the Chris McMillan The Hair Mousse

    Shipin before applying the Chris McMillan The Hair Mousse

    Shanna ShipinShipin after applying the Chris McMillan The Hair Mousse

    Shipin after applying the Chris McMillan The Hair Mousse

    Shanna Shipin

    Tester feedback from Shipin

    AccordionItemContainerButtonLargeChevron

    “Hello, one and done! This product is your gel, your curl cream, your finishing product…all in one. It's truly been a game-changer for me, replacing all my products! I shake it up, then release a larger-than-a-golfball size amount and apply it all over. I tend to use it while my hair is slightly towel-dried, then again in the middle of my diffusing session, when it is about 40% dry. I love that it truly delivers on its promise of volumized, bouncy curls—full stop. It tames a bit of frizz, it defines my coils, and adds some necessary lift at my roots and mid-section. I've never received so many compliments on my hair. A little goes a long way, and if you do overdo it (like any mousse), you may get a little crunch. Just work it out with an oil to finish off styling and it'll soften up immediately. I think this works perfectly for my 3a hair, and I can imagine it working well for waves, too. The $36 price may seem steep, but this mousse and a diffuser are all I need!” —Shanna Shipin, senior commerce director

    More to know

    AccordionItemContainerButtonLargeChevron

    • Key ingredients: mushroom extract, pine cone extract, polymers
    • Who it's good for: curly hair
    • Fragrance-free: no

    Best for Oily Hair: Oribe Dry Texturizing Spray

    Oribe Dry Texturizing Spray black spray bottle with gold lines next to red BoB 2023 seal on light grey backgroundSave to wishlistSave to wishlist

    Oribe

    Dry Texturizing Spray

    $52

    Amazon

    $52

    Nordstrom

    Why it's worth it: So, you got a blowout yesterday—but this morning's Pilates class did a number on your hair. Before you panic, Oribe's Dry Texturizing Spray is here to save the day. Yes, it adds volume and definition, but it also absorbs oil—think of it as a dry shampoo and a texturizing spray in one (very chic) bottle. The formula relies on zeolite crystallines, which add rough texture to your lengths while absorbing oil at the root. The spray also features Oribe’s Signature Complex, a brand hallmark that includes watermelon, lychee, and edelweiss flower to defend hair from drying and damaging oxidative stress. Pro tip: “Hit [hair] with the dryer again after spraying for volume at the root that lasts for days,” says Kate Johnson, hairstylist and founder of the Bridal Beauty Team. And, like all products in the Oribe lineup, it’s finished with the brand’s classic Côte d'Azur scent, which has notes of sandalwood, jasmine, and bergamot.

    More to know

    AccordionItemContainerButtonLargeChevron

    • Key ingredients: zeolite crystallines, ginger root extract, kiwi extract
    • Who it's good for: people who work out or sweat a lot
    • Fragrance-free: no

    Best for Frizz: Davines OI Soufflé

    Davines OI Souffle in branded component on a light gray backgroundSave to wishlistSave to wishlist

    Davines

    OI Soufflé

    $50

    Amazon

    $50

    Nordstrom

    $50

    Sephora

    Why it’s worth it: Made with antioxidant-rich roucou oil and softening chicory root extract, Davines’ OI Souffle is a hair-plumping mousse that delivers serious shine and volume, with none of the crunch. It also offers heat protection up to 446 degrees Fahrenheit, making it a great prep step before blow-drying for an extra full, bouncy finish. Once you apply it, you’ll notice how much silkier and smoother your hair feels, and when it’s dry, there won’t be any frizz left behind. Whether you’re defining curls or adding lift to straight strands, this is a solid pick—especially if your hair tends to puff up the second you step outside.

    Tester feedback from commerce writer Lily Wohlner

    AccordionItemContainerButtonLargeChevron

    “Humidity is my curly hair’s worst enemy, so when I’m rockin’ my natural waves, I always know Davines’ OI Mousse has my back in times of need. After showering, I scrunch it into my hair and I feel confident walking out the door on a rainy day or a scorcher, knowing my curls will stay right where I left them. Oh, and I have to mention the floral and clean scent of the entire OI line—I literally get compliments on it whenever I use it, with people asking me what perfume I’m wearing.” —Lily Wohlner, commerce writer

    More to know

    AccordionItemContainerButtonLargeChevron

    • Key ingredients: roucou oil, chicory root extract
    • Who it's good for: those with frizzy hair
    • Fragrance-free: no

    Best for Softness: R+Co Rodeo Star Thickening Foam

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

    R+Co

    Rodeo Star Thickening Foam

    $38

    Amazon

    $38

    Nordstrom

    $38

    Dermstore

    Why it’s worth it: R+Co’s Rodeo Star Thickening Foam delivers non-sticky volume with a soft feel, says Victoria McLeod, a hairstylist based in Atlanta. It incorporates skin-care ingredients, like vitamin E to deeply condition, kiwi fruit extract to help retain moisture, and aloe vera leaf extract to minimize breakage and add shine. Yes, it gives hair that fuller, bouncier look—but it also leaves strands feeling so soft, you’ll want to run your fingers through them all day long.

    More to know

    AccordionItemContainerButtonLargeChevron

    • Key ingredients: vitamin E, kiwi fruit extract, aloe leaf extract
    • Who it’s good for: frizzy, dry hair
    • Fragrance-free: no

    Best for Extending Styles: Redken Stay High Mousse

    Redken Stay High Mousse in branded component on a light gray backgroundSave to wishlistSave to wishlist

    Redken

    Stay High Mousse

    $31

    Amazon

    $31

    Ulta Beauty

    Why it’s worth it: “Redken’s Stay High Mousse is thick and has a lot of stiff texture to it, so it holds fine hair up in a way that a lot of volumizing products don’t,” says Johnson. She adds that the volume stays put all day long, whether you apply it only at the roots or throughout your hair shaft.“ Just make sure to use a small amount and run it through wet hair section by section before blow-drying,” she advises. It immediately melts into hair, never feels sticky, and hydrates and strengthens with help from castor oil. A win-win-win, in our book.

    More to know

    AccordionItemContainerButtonLargeChevron

    • Key ingredients: castor oil, polymers
    • Who it's good for: all hair types
    • Fragrance-free: no

    Frequently Asked Questions

    What does a volumizing hair product do?

    According to Toth, a volumizing hair product lifts roots from the scalp. "Some are simply weightless, some give incredible hold and texture, and some coat and surround each strand of hair," he says.

    Raven Hurtado, a Chicago-based hairstylist, echoed Toth. He told Allure, "It works great for updos, and you could also use it as a dry shampoo." Hurtado explains, "You can also touch up your second-day blowout without having any residue."

    While healthy hair can benefit from hair volumizing products, they can also help support damaged locks. Cosmetic chemist Ginger King told Allure, "Heredity, stress, poor nutrition, improper care of hair, and environmental damage (such as sunlight and harsh brushing)" can all be potential causes of thinning hair. If that sounds like you, a hair volumizing product could make a big difference, either as a permanent solution or to tide you over while going on a regrowth journey.

    How do I choose a volumizing hair product?

    Many products claim to be effective volumizers. But before you hedge your bets on a bottle, it's essential to know your hair type and your desired style. Santiago recommends using a root spray or a mousse before blow-drying if you want your hair to be more touchable and smooth. "If you like feeling your hair more textured, an aerosol spray or volume powder is a great choice," she adds. If you're just getting into the hair volumizing game, you might need to try a few different products before you land your best option.

    What should I avoid in a volumizing hair product?

    King previously told Allure to be wary of heavy oils and silicones, since "not all oils or silicones are created equal." She mentions that, while they can provide benefits like softening and hydrating, coconut and jojoba are weightier than other oils. Silicones also vary in weight and grade—but you don't need to be a scientist to determine which is which. "If it feels greasy on your fingers, chances are it will weigh down your hair," King advises.

    Meet the experts

    • Mia Santiago, a New York City-based hairstylist
    • Devin Toth, a New York City-based hairstylist
    • Raven Hurtado, a Chicago-based hairstylist at Maxine Salon
    • Ginger King, a cosmetic chemist
    • Kate Johnson, a hairstylist and founder of the Bridal Beauty Team
    • Victoria McLeod, a hairstylist based in Atlanta, Georgia

    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 in order to address a concern (dandruff, breakage, brittleness) or to work most effectively for a specific hair type (4C curls, wavy hair, gray hair). You wouldn’t want to pick up a purple shampoo that’s only been reviewed by someone with, say, auburn hair, or a diffuser that’s never been tested by anyone with curls—right?

    For our review of volumizing hair products, we enlisted the help of multiple editors, writers, contributors, cosmetic chemists, and makeup artists—who have 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 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.

  • I Got Skin Removal Surgery After Losing 230 Pounds On a GLP-1

    I Got Skin Removal Surgery After Losing 230 Pounds On a GLP-1

    skin removal surgery before and afterSave StorySave this storySave StorySave this story

    Perri is a 34-year-old New Yorker who started a GLP-1 in 2023 to reclaim her life. This is her story in her own words.

    “The battery must be dead.” That’s what I thought the first time my Amazon scale couldn’t register my weight.

    At five feet three inches tall, I weighed more than 400 pounds, which I confirmed after purchasing a medical-grade scale. I didn’t recognize myself in the mirror. Even worse I didn’t recognize my life. Seeing the number was one thing, but the lived experience—being unable to tie my shoes or walk a block without becoming winded—was something entirely different.

    I was 31 years old and beyond the point of no return, I thought. My flag wasn’t just planted at rock bottom; it was cemented. Then, in April 2023, I decided to make a change. I started a GLP-1, a type of medication that aids weight loss, in part by causing food to move through the body more slowly and increasing fullness. Within days of my first injection, the screeching food noise that had always plagued me became a faint whisper. I hadn’t even worked my way up to a therapeutic dose yet, but I could feel the tides shifting. After treading water my entire life, I was finally learning how to swim.

    I first became aware of my weight as a child, standing on the scale at the pediatrician’s office. I was eight years old—maybe younger. In that moment I realized I wasn’t just a girl who loved tennis and softball. My identity and personhood could also be tethered to a body and a number, one that would fluctuate but somehow remain an enemy throughout my life. When I look at photos from that time, I see a perfectly normal kid, yet I was treated differently. I’ll never forget how, at family events, I was handed salads while my cousins were served burgers.

    This experience, and others like it, planted seeds of shame about my weight that, as I grew up, blossomed into a thorny and distorted relationship with food. I tried every diet and weight-loss program out there: the Master Cleanse (you know, the lemon juice, maple syrup, and cayenne pepper concoction endorsed by Beyoncé), Jenny Craig, and the like. In fact, it was Weight Watchers that (inadvertently) taught me to binge eat as a pre-teen; I would starve myself the two days before weigh-ins. After that my cravings would explode, and I’d overeat. The cycle would continue week after week. Similarly, after losing 80 pounds on a paleo diet, the weight all came back once I could no longer avoid the lure of grains and sugar. I had traded reckless excess for reckless restriction, and it was completely unsustainable. The pervasive stereotype that plagues folks in larger bodies is that fast food and ultra-processed foods are to blame. But it became clear that I had an issue with bingeing. No matter what diet I tried, I wound up overeating—even “clean” foods like grilled chicken and sweet potatoes.

    Reaching my breaking point

    During the pandemic my life took a turn for the worse. As the world began social distancing, I fell into isolation. My apartment folded in on itself—my bed was my home. The food noise in my head grew louder, and my binging worsened. I found myself at my unhealthiest and most miserable. I ordered nearly everything I ate. After all, I could barely clean my apartment without becoming breathless; I couldn’t even imagine going to the grocery store. I either stayed home or at my parents’ house. Those were the only places I felt safe. My personal life atrophied because the shame I felt about my health weighed so heavily on my shoulders. I completely withdrew from the world. I lost friendships because I didn’t have the capacity to show up beyond a phone call or text.

    Looking back I realize I lived a double life. Personally, I was crumbling, but professionally, I was unstoppable. I led a large team at a media agency, and I never dropped the ball; I vowed never to let my weight affect my career. But as my mobility became more limited, I struggled to attend work events. My career is social—filled with lunches and happy hours for clients—but going to a restaurant or bar triggered my fight-or-flight response, with the voice in my head wondering, Will I fit in a seat? However, before I could spiral about that too much, I’d remember it was almost impossible for me to walk without becoming winded. If the night continued to a different location, I knew I couldn’t keep up. So I stayed home.

    I knew I didn’t have much life left if I stayed on this path. My decision to start a GLP-1 wasn’t just about getting my life back; it was about saving it. I knew I wanted to lose 200 pounds, but processing that number felt insurmountable—a reminder of how much weight I had gained. But I told myself, Even if I lose 10 pounds, I will feel better.

    I was prescribed Wegovy through a telehealth provider, who I worked in lockstep with to increase my dosage at monthly intervals, auditing my body’s response to the treatment along the way. There’s this misconception that GLP-1s are a magic shot that allows you to bypass the “hard work” of losing weight. Trust me, I put a lot of effort into my weight-loss journey, supporting the medication's effects with a nutritious diet and, as I regained mobility, consistent workouts. But I’ll be honest, there is a sense of magic for me—specifically, how the medication tempered food noise. Soon after my first injection, I stopped constantly thinking about my next meal. My relationship with food became healthy. For the first time in my life, I could eat in moderation. Instead of finishing an entire bag of M&M’s, I would eat a handful. I finally felt in control.

    My chest tightened when I saw the loose skin that enveloped my new body.

    In April 2024, a year after starting my GLP-1 journey, I was down 133 pounds. But once I lost 150 pounds, my progress stalled. My provider switched me to Zepbound, and my weight continued to drop.

    The main downside was the nausea, which was consistent while taking both drugs. It was brutal, especially on the day after my weekly injection. Even commuting from my home on Long Island to Manhattan was a struggle some days when I was feeling particularly queasy. I relied on Zofran (a prescription medicine for nausea and vomiting), lean protein, and hydration to help keep the symptoms at bay. It was exhausting, but I was committed to doing whatever it took to reclaim my life. I knew I had momentum, and I refused to lose it.

    As the number on the scale continued falling, I became more active. I could finally go to the gym, gaining even more momentum. I started working in cardio like swimming (easier on my joints at first), biking, and pickleball.

    Seeing a plastic surgeon

    Almost two full years later, I’ve lost over 230 pounds, going from a size 5X in shirts to a size medium and from a size 30 in pants to a size 6 or 8. Fifteen of those lost pounds were not from my GLP-1, exercise, or dietary changes but from something else entirely: skin-removal surgery. After years of hiding myself, I wanted to wear dresses and bathing suits but was confronted by the crepey, loose skin that enveloped my new body. My chest tightened when I thought about the progress I’d made, only to see that in the mirror.

    My plastic surgeon, who specializes in skin removal on patients who’ve experienced extreme weight loss, performed a 360-degree lower-body lift in October 2025, contouring and removing skin from my hips, stomach, and butt. My abdominal wall had also separated because of my weight gain and had to be stitched back together. The surgery was eight hours long, and when I regained consciousness, I couldn’t even lift my foot without feeling pain. But the discomfort was well worth it. Now when I see my flat stomach—flat stomach!—I’m reminded that nothing is impossible.

    As I write this I’m still recovering and waiting for the swelling to fully subside. I won’t see my final results for roughly nine months. And there’s more work to be done. Before the summer and after swelling subsides from my past surgery, I hope to have the excess skin removed from my upper body too. For now, though, I’m taking in my new 180-pound body at 34 years old, appreciating it and caring for it every day.

    When I was still in the early stages of my journey, before I started dating again, booking last-minute flights to see the world I had cut myself off from, or skydiving (which I once considered impossible), I recognized something so mundane but so magical: I could walk up stairs without losing my breath. A nondescript everyday moment signaled that I wasn’t at rock bottom anymore. I had pulled myself out—step by step.

  • The Best Makeup for Moms Who Only Have 10 Minutes to Get Ready

    The Best Makeup for Moms Who Only Have 10 Minutes to Get Ready

    A photo of Allure contributor Sara Tan in a black frame surrounded by Dibs Colourpop mph beauty and Saie beauty products...Collage: Jemeria Davison / Images: Courtesy of Amazon and UltaSave StorySave this storySave StorySave this story

    If you’re a mom, you’re probably familiar with doing a lot of things on the go: eating breakfast, firing off emails, scheduling doctor’s appointments—and yes, doing your makeup. We’ve mastered the art of lining our lips without a mirror, one hand on a stroller (what a flex). While I don’t recommend doing a full face of makeup mid-chaos, we also know that 10 minutes at home is often all you have to get your “glam” done before rushing out the door.

    As a mom of two, on-camera beauty expert, and podcast cohost, I’m intimately familiar with getting ready in a pinch (because let’s face it—I’m already late). And while I’ve gotten better at it over the years—thanks to plenty of practice, plus tips and tricks from my favorite makeup-artist friends—the products have gotten better, too. It’s easier than ever to fake an almost full beat, thanks to a new generation of easy-to-apply, multitasking, and long-lasting makeup products designed for exactly this kind of time crunch. Here are the ones I rely on when I need to get camera-ready (whether for the news or a Zoom) in under 10 minutes.

    Set it Up: Kelly Zhang Lifting & Firming Face Primer

    Kelly Zhang Lifting & Firming Face Primer in branded tube component on a light gray backgroundSave to wishlistSave to wishlist

    Kelly Zhang

    Lifting & Firming Face Primer

    $35

    Kelly Zhang

    I don’t love wearing a heavy moisturizer during the day, especially if I’m layering makeup, but my skin still needs a little extra love—particularly after a sleepless night spent being held hostage by a tiny toddler. This Lifting & Firming Face Primer from Kelly Zhang is packed with peptides, soothing aloe, and brightening orange peel extract to help smooth, firm, and illuminate skin, all while creating an ideal base for makeup. Massage it in, and it’s almost as if your skin just did a quick Barry’s Bootcamp class—lifted, firmed, and ready to go in seconds.

    Work of Art: m.ph by Mary Phillips Underpainting Face Highlight & Contour Palette

    m.ph by Mary Phillips Underpainting Face Highlight & Contour Palette in branded component on a light gray backgroundSave to wishlistSave to wishlist

    m.ph by Mary Phillips

    Underpainting Face Highlight & Contour Palette

    $64

    Sephora

    Contouring can feel intimidating—and not necessarily like an everyday step—but I’ve found it makes a noticeable difference in how polished my makeup looks. Makeup artist Mary Phillips has a way of making it feel approachable, which might explain why she never skips this step on clients like Hailey Bieber and Kendall Jenner. This cream-based Underpainting Face Highlight & Contour Palette includes two contour shades, two highlighters, and a color-correcting shade, making it easy to customize your sculpt. I simply “paint” where I want definition, blend it out, and instantly look more defined.

    Balm Dot Com: IT Cosmetics Do-It-All Sheer Tint Face Balm

    IT Cosmetics Do-It-All Sheer Tint Face Balm in branded component on a light gray backgroundSave to wishlistSave to wishlist

    IT Cosmetics

    Do-It-All Sheer Tint Face Balm

    $34

    Ulta Beauty

    This new skin-tint-meets-balm from IT Cosmetics has quickly become a staple in my routine, especially as a woman inching closer to her 40s. The lightweight formula wears like skin care (it’s infused with hyaluronic acid and collagen peptides) while delivering just the right amount of coverage for everyday wear, helping to blur redness, dark spots, and fine lines. The Do-It-All Sheer Tint Face Balm is sheer but buildable, and one of my favorite things about it is how easy it is to touch up throughout the day. I keep one in my purse so I can tap it on with my fingers as needed. It gives me a naturally glowy, radiant finish that tends to earn compliments wherever I go.

    Focus on Me: Danessa Myricks Beauty Yummy Skin Blurring Balm Powder Flushed

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

    Danessa Myricks Beauty

    Yummy Skin Blurring Balm Powder Flushed

    $27

    Sephora

    Leave it to Danessa Myricks (beauty mogul and busy mom herself) to create a truly multitasking cheek-and-lip product that brings instant life to the face. The Yummy Skin Blurring Balm Powder Flushed has a unique blurring texture, delivering a soft, Paris-filter effect on skin. This creamy balm-powder hybrid blends seamlessly, wears beautifully throughout the day, and comes in a range of flattering shades. I’m especially drawn to Jubilee, a soft terracotta that works both as a blush and a lip.

    Seeing the Light: Chanel Baume Essential

    Chanel Baume Essential in branded component on a light gray backgroundSave to wishlistSave to wishlist

    Chanel

    Baume Essential

    $49

    Chanel

    $49

    Nordstrom

    $49

    Ulta Beauty

    Chanel’s Baume Essential might be the longest-running product in my entire routine—and there’s truly no highlighter quite like it. It’s nothing like the blinding, stripey highlights of the 2016 era. Instead, it melts seamlessly into my complexion, looking elegant and natural while delivering just the right amount of glow exactly where I want it. Best of all, the stick format makes application effortless: You can swipe it directly onto the skin or tap it in with your fingertips. And while it is an investment, the stick lasts forever, making it well worth the splurge.

    Take a B(r)ow: Colourpop Brow Boss Pencil + Boss 24HR Lifting Brow Gel

    Colourpop Brow Boss Pencil + Boss 24HR Lifting Brow Gel in branded component on a light gray backgroundSave to wishlistSave to wishlist

    Colourpop

    Brow Boss Pencil

    $9

    Amazon

    $9

    Ulta Beauty

    Colourpop Boss 24Hr Lifting Brow Gel on a light gray backgroundSave to wishlistSave to wishlist

    Colourpop

    Brow Boss 24HR Lifting Brow Gel

    $9

    Amazon

    $9

    Ulta Beauty

    If there’s one nonnegotiable in my routine, it’s brows that last all day—through meetings, workouts, and right up until I wash my face. Brows frame the face, so it’s important that they stay put and, if I may borrow a bit of 2016 jargon, remain on fleek. ColourPop’s Brow Boss Pencil is thin and precise, making it easy to create natural, hair-like strokes, which I then lock in with the brand’s new brow gel. The result is fluffy, full brows that truly last all day, without any crunchiness or flaking. It’s a truly winning combination.

    Flick of the Wrist: Fenty Beauty Fine Linez Lash Line-Enhancing Eyeliner

    Fenty Beauty Fine Linez Lash Line-Enhancing Eyeliner in branded component on a light gray backgroundSave to wishlistSave to wishlist

    Fenty Beauty

    Fine Linez Lash Line-Enhancing Eyeliner

    $26

    Ulta Beauty

    $26

    Sephora

    I don’t love a lot of drama on my eyes during the day, but a touch of eyeliner and a subtle wing instantly makes me look more awake and feel a little cuter, too. Fenty Beauty’s Fine Linez Lash Line-Enhancing Eyeliner is my recent go-to. The gel formula is perfect for tightlining my waterline and adding a precise flick. Once it sets, it truly doesn’t budge, so you’ll want to work quickly if you plan to clean up or sharpen the wing using the other end of the pencil. I love the black (Cuz I’m Black) and brown (In Big Truffle) shades, but if you like to play with color, the navy (The Navy) and burgundy (Riri) can add the perfect subtle pop.

    Multitasking Wand: DIBS Double Standard Primer & Mascara Duo

    Dibs Double Standard Primer & Mascara Duo in branded component on a light gray backgroundSave to wishlistSave to wishlist

    DIBS Beauty

    Double Standard Primer & Mascara Duo

    $31

    Ulta Beauty

    $31

    Dibs Beauty

    Full disclosure: I don’t wear mascara. I’m a lash-extension apologist and firmly believe they’re a high-maintenance investment that ultimately makes life low-maintenance. But if mascara is more your speed, this mascara is one I consistently recommend. The duo pairs a lengthening tubing brown primer with a volumizing black mascara, which is what makes it so good. My podcast cohost and work wife Kirbie Johnson is a true mascara pro and swears by this formula, especially the brown primer, which many people love wearing on its own for a softer, more natural lash look. Together, the combo adds length and volume, builds easily from everyday to full glam, and stays flake-free and smudge-proof. If I ever gave up my extensions, I’d go straight to this.

    Just a Tint: Summer Fridays Flushed Lip Stain Slipper

    Summer Fridays Flushed Lip Stain Slipper in branded component on a light gray backgroundSave to wishlistSave to wishlist

    Summer Fridays

    Flushed Lip Stain Slipper

    $22

    Sephora

    $22

    Summer Fridays

    Even with a full face of makeup, I feel incomplete without a lip, which is why I gravitate toward formulas that last as long as possible between reapplications. Summer Fridays has long dominated the lip balm category, so a lip stain felt like a natural next step. The Flushed Lip Stain Slipper comes in a felt-tip marker, making it easy to outline, fill in, or fully customize your lip shape. What sets it apart is that it isn’t drying like many stains I’ve tried, thanks to soothing ingredients like aloe vera gel and panthenol. It’s lightweight and buildable, and once it sets, it’s completely transfer-proof for hours—I’ve tested it after eating and even showering. While every shade is great, I’m especially partial to Rosette (cool pink) and Mocha (deep neutral brown). I finish with one of the lip balm glosses I keep in my purse, and I’m good to go.

    Set and Go: Saie CitySet Setting Spray

    Saie CitySet Setting Spray in branded component on a light gray backgroundSave to wishlistSave to wishlist

    Saie

    CitySet Setting Spray

    $34

    Sephora

    $34

    Saie

    There’s nothing more frustrating than spending time on your makeup only to have it disappear a few hours later. I need insurance, especially when I’m chasing after two kids. Saie’s CitySet Setting Spray is my go-to everyday setting spray. It’s alcohol-free and formulated with hydrolyzed corn starch, which helps lock makeup in place without that stiff, traditional setting-spray feel. The mist is incredibly fine, and I often reach for it throughout the day to refresh my skin as well. With wear claims of up to 16 hours, it lasts exactly as long as I need my makeup to hold—through school pickup, errands, workouts, and bedtime routines—before I finally wash my face at night.

  • Hailey Bieber Is a Fan of This “Weightless” $49 Foundation—Watch the Video

    Hailey Bieber Is a Fan of This “Weightless” $49 Foundation—Watch the Video

    Hailey Bieber appears at an event in a black dress. She wears her hair up with two pieces pulled out on either side.Getty ImagesSave StorySave this storySave StorySave this story

    Hailey Bieber definitely has a signature beauty look. The model and Rhode founder is drawn to dewy skin (or “glazed donut” skin, as she calls it), layered cream blush, minimal eye makeup, and a lined, contoured lip. She has previously described her glam routine as “less is more," and while she doesn't typically use a full suite of products for her GRWM TikTok videos, we love poring over them to see which products earn the highly coveted Hailey Bieber seal of approval.

    In her latest video, which depicts off her current go-to routine for “fresh skin and a lip on repeat,” which begins with a very intriguing foundation application. Instead of smoothing on a liquid formula with her fingers or a brush, she mixes a few generous drops of her chosen shade with Rhode's Glazing Milk, swirls them together, and applies the combo to her skin with a medium-sized brush, taking her time to really buff the product in for a light-as-air finish.

    The foundation in question is m.ph beauty by Mary Phillips's new Le Skin Weightless Serum Foundation, which the brand describes as a “breathable” foundation with a buildable medium finish. It comes in 35 shades and retails for $49. This product pick makes a lot of sense, as Bieber has been working with Phillips for years. Mixing it with the Glazing Milk allows for a sheer, featherlight texture that lets Bieber's skin shine. Once she's done applying foundation, she dots on a bit of concealer (Kosas Revealer Concealer, if you're curious) and sets it with powder, then dots a few faux freckles across the bridge of her nose. The “lip on repeat” starts with a Rhode Peptide Lip Shape liner, and Bieber then fills in the shape with a rosy brown lipstick; her exact shade is Merit's Lip Blush in Bespoke.

    Watch Bieber mix up her foundation below:

    TikTok content