Author: kzyxbd

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Hailey Bieber loves a neutral nail—so much so that we rarely see her these days sans her soft, “glazed donut” nails, which are something of a trademark for the Rhode founder at this point. But for the legendary Vanity Fair Oscar Party, Bieber pressed pause on the pearly glaze in favor of something equally classic but pretty surprising: Old Hollywood red, with a “rusty” twist.

Red isn't a common shade in Bieber's manicure oeuvre; I honestly don't know that I've seen her wear a hue like this one like, at all, though she has obviously worn red nail polish in the past. But she and nail artist Zola Ganzorigt decided to zig where we thought they'd zag, which is part of the fun of these big-ticket celeb events. For the party, they landed on what Ganzorigt describes as a “rusty red” nail—not cherry, not fire-engine, not candy apple, but a slightly subdued though no less vibrant red with just the teeniest, tiniest drop of brown to make it stand out. It's red, but not a Marilyn Monroe red; it's a Hailey Bieber red! (And it also matches the warm red vibes of Rhode's latest shade of Pocket Blush, just saying…)

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According to Ganzorigt, she used a combination of OPI nail colors to get Bieber's custom shade, including the beloved bestseller Big Apple Red, a bright, true crimson; Endless Sun-ner, a bronze; and Espresso Your Inner Self, a light coffee brown. (Ganzorigt used the gel formula on Mrs. Bieber, but you could get a similar color with the regular polish.)

This isn't the first time Ganzorigt and Bieber have played color chemist for an awards show. They did the same for the 2026 Grammys, where Bieber wore the coolest mauve-brown manicure that almost exactly matched her lipstick. Though the Rhode founder definitely has her sweet (glazed) spot when it comes to day-to-day manicures, it's always fun to see what she'll surprise us with next. Red today, maybe bright orange tomorrow? Well, anything is possible!

Courtesy of @matejanova and @jinsoonSave StorySave this storySave StorySave this story

We’d like to have a word with Punxsutawney Phil. With the relentless news cycle and seasonal darkness, he could have spared us six more weeks of winter (and the record amount of snow we got here in New York City). We're happy to finally be entering spring, which means sunnier days and a fresh manicure.

According to professional nail artists, the coolest spring nail colors mirror our furry clairvoyant friend’s predictions. These gentle tones ease us into the warmer months and allow us to lean into the comforts we’re seeking after braving winter’s colder-than-average temperatures. Looking to feel more at peace? Perhaps you’ll enjoy glancing down at fog-blue painted nails. Craving energy without the jitters? Choose a creamy matcha shade, which looks especially zingy against deeper skin tones. In the mood for something sweet? Try a yummy berry hue. Ahead, discover all the spring nail color trends of 2026—slowly but surely helping us out of hibernation with every coat.

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• Fog Blue
• Brick Red
• Sheer Chantilly Cream
• Matcha latte
• Juicy berry

Fog Blue

Courtesy of @jinsoonCourtesy of @jinsoonCourtesy of @avrnailswatchesCourtesy of @manucurist

At the top of the year, we predicted that fog blue would be one of 2026’s biggest nail color trends, and look, we were right. The pros we phoned say that this is the season we’ll see it most. “A moody blue feels relevant because we’re living in complicated times,” says Jin Soon Choi, a New York City-based nail artist and brand founder. “It doesn’t try too hard, yet it feels very cool in a stylish way.”

Miss Pop, a New York City-based nail artist, echoes this sentiment. “Powdery blue was arguably one of the most coveted shades of the ’90s, especially if you had the matching ring that came with the Hard Candy bottle,” she says. This year, Miss Pop says the nostalgic hue is back, "calmer and just as covetable."

Choi sent her shade Sea Clay down the runway for the Proenza Schouler Spring/Summer 2026 show. It’s a medium-blue with a hint of gray, like an often-washed pair of jeans. We also like the Olive and June Nail Polish in Torrential (a similar color) for its creaminess.

For a hazier take on the trend, go for Manucurist Green Natural Nail Polish in Mist Grey, Los Angeles-based nail artist Sarah Chue’s recommendation for this trend. “It’s like a misty morning by the ocean,” she says.

Brick Red

Courtesy of @melanated.maniCourtesy of @jinsoonCourtesy of @matejanova

It isn’t hot-rod red, nor is it terra-cotta. Brick red sits snugly in the middle. “It feels strong, but grounded,” says Choi, who swept her brand’s polish in Idyll across the models’ nails at the Jason Wu Spring/Summer 2026 show. We also like the Gitti Plant-Based Nail Colour in No. 113 Rust Red for a shade just as earthy.

Chue is also loving brick red right now, adding that it’s a common winter color that can easily be repurposed for spring wardrobes. Her pick? In The Conservatory by Orly, which leans more toward terra-cotta.

Sheer Chantilly Cream

Courtesy of @jinsoonCourtesy of @jinsoonCourtesy of @matejanovaCourtesy of @sabletoothtiger

If nude nails and milk nails were having a baby—and throwing a shotgun wedding—it would be this trend. It’s a sheer layer of bright white polish, explains Bana Jarjour, a Los Angeles-based nail artist. It’s feather-light, like the glossy cellophane you’d wrap a wedding favor in, and has a “clean, healthy-looking finish,” says Choi.

Choi recommends her brand’s nail polish in Dew. (One layer is a translucent veil of white, while multiple layers shine like Mikado silk.) Jarjour’s choice is the slightly more-opaque CND Shellac Studio Polish in Studio White. And we love The Londontown Lakur in Bubbly Ever After. With finely milled glitter, it’s similar to the aforementioned cellophane, except you chose the shinier, more iridescent pack for your last-minute festivities.

Matcha latte

Courtesy of @matejanovaCourtesy of @avrnailswatchesCourtesy of @inlpCourtesy of @leminimacaron

According to Miss Pop, milky matcha is the green of the season. Now, we’re not here to judge how you like your matcha. There are no snobs on Team Allure! Maybe you enjoy it with nondairy milk. Then try Essie Nail Polish in Crunch Crunch, which both Jarjour and Miss Pop gush about, or Chanel Le Vernis in Cavalier Seul, Chue’s slightly earthier recommendation. Perhaps you prefer your matcha with full-fat creamer. The pastel-green INLP Secret Garden or Ella + Mila nail polish in Sacred Sage will satisfy your palate. Or maybe you drink it straight up, the way it’s enjoyed in Uji, Japan, in which case, check out Nailberry’s Love You So Matcha: bolder in color, but with the creamy feel of tea that’s been properly sifted and whisked.

Juicy berry

Courtesy of @jessicawhitenailartistCourtesy of @avrnailswatchesCourtesy of @littlelovesbeauty_Courtesy of @opi by @sedjames

It’s berry season (maybe not according to actual farmers), but it is to the beauty pros we asked. “A pink-berry polish provides an easy transition into lighter shades without going too bright,” says Jarjour.

It might be a little early to visit your favorite farm, but nothing is stopping you from indulging in the trend on your nails. There’s a bushel of options to choose from: Chanel Le Vernis in Activiste are a dark raspberry (and Jarjour’s go-to), while Sally Hansen Xtreme Wear Nail Polish in Drop That Beet will remind you of a mixed-berry smoothie. Or perhaps you’re craving a more decadent blackberry, in which case we suggest OPI Nail Polish in In The Cable Car-Pool Lane. Regardless, top it with a glossy topcoat, says Jarjour, to make your mani look extra juicy.

Meet the experts

• Jin Soon Choi is a New York City-based nail artist and founder of nail-care brand JinSoon.
• Sarah Chue is a Los Angeles-based nail artist.
• Bana Jarjour is a Los Angeles-based nail artist.
• Miss Pop is a New York City-based nail artist.

Collage: Jemeria Davison; Source images: Courtesy of Allure editors and CyklarSave StorySave this storySave StorySave this story

The body-care boom continues to boom, but the best Cyklar products go above and beyond other formulas. Of course, we’re big fans of the brand’s debut Perfume Oils (a 2025 Allure Best of Beauty Award winner, after all), but Ckylar’s ultra-moisturizing body care—packed with ingredients such as niacinamide, squalane, and multi-oil blends—is really what gives the brand “must-have” status in our daily routines. And the signature fragrances (rose, vanilla, santal, and more) are infused into every launch, from body lotions to hand creams. If you want to go all-in on one particular scent, chances are you can buy complementary body washes, lotions, oils, and even deodorants for a more intense and decadent vibe.

Our Top Cyklar Products

• Roll With It: Perfume Oil, $24
• Lush Lather: Sensorial Body Wash, $35
• Barrier Boss: Ceramide Milky Essence, $30
• Balm Dot Com: In-Shower Body Oil Balm, $29
• Shake on It: Urea Hand Cream, $22

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• Meet the experts
• How we test and review products
• Our staff and testers

Each Cyklar formula feels like a sensorial experience in a bottle, and after trying the entire lineup (at the time of writing), we’ve rounded up the best Cyklar products our editors have tried and now can’t live without.

Roll With It: Perfume Oil

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Cyklar

Perfume Oil

$24

Amazon

$24

Sephora

Why we love it: As mentioned, Cyklar’s debut was its Perfume Oil—and although the brand has launched a highly-sought-after body-care collection since, these chic rollerball fragrances still hold prime real estate in our makeup bags. Out of all 12 scents, the obvious frontrunner is Vanilla Verve (the aforementioned Best of Beauty winner), thanks to its addictive mix of bright bergamot and cardamom layered over vanilla, tonka bean, amber, and musk. The rollerball applicator delivers a concentrated swipe straight onto pulse points.

Vanilla not your vibe? Eleven other fragrances are waiting for you, from Lover’s Leather—a smoky, sultry blend that reminds us of a jazz club—to Flora Veil, a soft, airy scent that emulates clean skin, fresh air, and a fragrant flower garden. Too hard to decide? You can purchase an eight-piece set (might as well get the Travertine Display Tray while you’re at it) for all your mood-specific and/or layering needs.

Allure shopping director Shanna Shipin applying the Cyklar Vanilla Verve Perfume Oil

Shanna Shipin

Allure beauty director Sarah Kinonen applying the Cyklar Rose Bud Perfume Oil

Sarah Kinonen

Tester feedback from senior commerce director Shanna Shipin

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“Cyklar's oil in Vanilla Verve goes everywhere with me. The compact, sturdy bottle is perfect for tossing into any bag, and with its rollerball dispenser, I never have to worry about spillage. But enough about the (great) packaging: As a proud gourmand girl, I absolutely adore this fragrance. It’s a grown-up vanilla that's equal parts mysterious and comforting, with some green notes to keep things fresh.” —Shanna Shipin, senior commerce director

Tester feedback from beauty director Sarah Kinonen

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“Although I prefer to spritz on my fragrances, every now and then, a perfume oil is a cute change of pace. This one from Cyklar comes in a super-chic, palm-size glass bottle (it's 0.5 fl oz.!) that's spill-proof, great for mid-day touch-ups, and is easy to travel with (can be tossed into any bag!). Even easier? The application process—you just glide the rollerball across skin, making sure to hit pulse points, like inside of wrists and under ears. While I like wearing it solo, it's also fun to layer on top of my favorite musk scents: ByRosie Jane Rosie and Dedcool Xtra Milk. I've tried all of the scents, but my current favorite is the new Rose Bud, which is a true floral. The rose is so fresh and so spot on, and smells just like petals from the flower. It's not powdery, but there are warm notes of sandalwood and musk to give the fragrance a grounded, skin-like finish. I love it!” —Sarah Kinonen, beauty director

More to know

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• Scent options: 12 (Rose Bud, Core Vetiver, Amber Hour, Naked Neroli, Vanilla Verve, Sacred Santal, Cedar Supreme, Bergamot Bond, Sex Musk, Flora Veil, Modern Patchouli, and Lover’s Leather)
• Size: 0.5 fl oz.

Barrier Boss: Ceramide Milky Essence

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Cyklar

Ceramide Milky Essence

$30

Amazon

$30

Sephora

Shipin applying the Cyklar Ceramide Milky Essence

Shanna Shipin

Why it’s worth it: Hyaluronic acid may be one of the most well-regarded skin-care ingredients, but polyglutamic acid is an underrated player that deserves more hype. (PGA holds four times more moisture than the former!) Luckily, in Cyklar’s Ceramide Milky Essence, both are featured. But, that’s not all: Five kinds of ceramides and squalane instantly soothe a dry, thirsty barrier. There’s also urea—a rare gem that “binds water and pulls it into the skin, where it belongs, and kicks cracked, dead skin cells to the curb,” says Adam Friedman, MD, a DC-based dermatologist. The result is a lightweight, non-sticky serum that can be worn alone or easily layered underneath additional body-care products (we’re looking at you, Body Lotion and Body Oil).

Tester feedback from Shipin

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“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

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• Scent options: 1 (fragrance-free)
• Key ingredients: ceramides, urea, polyglutamic acid, amino acids
• Size: 8 fl oz.

Dream Cream: Nutrient-Rich Body Cream

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Cyklar

Nutrient-Rich Body Cream

$29

Amazon

$29

Sephora

Allure commerce writer Lily Wohlner applying the Cyklar Nutrient-Rich Body Cream

Lily Wohlner

Why we love it: Given that you’re not sensitive to fragrance, smoothing on a velvety scented body cream like Cyklar’s Nutrient-Rich Body Cream is one of our go-to little luxuries after a long day. However, if you do prefer a low-key, fragrance-free formula, it comes in an unscented version, alongside six signature scents. Whichever you choose, the skin-loving formula stays the same. Banana flower extract, naturally rich in prebiotics and antioxidants, and niacinamide (another well-known antioxidant) help even tone and soften texture. Prickly pear water and squalane dial up hydration for softness without leaving behind greasy aftermath.

The lightweight finish means you can apply it in the morning before getting dressed (no stickiness or clinging fabrics), or in a thicker layer before bed. Another plus? Two scents come in a TSA-friendly tube, so you stay moisturized no matter where you jet off to.

Tester feedback from commerce writer Lily Wohlner

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“I’m pretty lazy when it comes to post-shower body care, especially if a lotion takes forever to rub in. Luckily, that’s not the case with Cyklar’s Nutrient-Rich Body Cream. The second it touches my skin, it melts in like butter and leaves it feeling unbelievably soft—without that thick, heavy feeling you sometimes get from richer body butters or oils. And the scent (my favorite is Sacred Santal) is light, warm, and so relaxing that I catch myself sniffing my own skin throughout the day just to get another little ‘ahhh.’” —Lily Wohlner, commerce writer

More to know

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• Scent options: 7 (Rose Bud, Vanilla Verve, Sacred Santal, Bergamot Bond, Naked Neroli, Crescent, and Fragrance-Free)
• Key ingredients: banana flower, niacinamide, prickly pear water, squalane
• Size: 8 fl oz.

Scrub Club: Lactic Acid Foaming Body Polish

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Cyklar

Lactic Acid Foaming Body Polish

$32

Amazon

$32

Sephora

Allure senior commerce editor Sarah Felbin applying the Cyklar Lactic Acid Foaming Body Polish

Sarah Felbin

Why it’s worth it: Cyklar’s Lactic Acid Foaming Body Polish is completely unscented—but its smoothing, nourishing benefits make it every bit as indulgent as its scented counterparts. Volcanic pumice stone provides gentle physical exfoliation, scrubbing away dead skin and buildup, while chemical exfoliators (mandelic, phytic, and lactic acids) refine texture, even out skin tone, and leave your skin looking brighter. Glycerin keeps your skin soft and hydrated, so there’s no need to worry about exfoliation-related dryness. The thick, grainy formula transforms into a foamy lather, doubling as a luxurious body wash that sweeps away the day’s grime and treats your senses.

Tester feedback from senior commerce editor Sarah Felbin

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“I use this product once or twice a week. This is the best of a body wash and a body scrub, rolled into one shower staple. It comes out of the tube super thick, but quickly melts with water into a lush, foamy lather. As I rub it in, I can feel the grains removing any dead skin cells—so satisfying!—and my skin is ridiculously soft and smooth afterwards. I wouldn't use it every day because the scrub is pretty intense, but I think it's a must-have for a good everything shower—I feel extra-clean after I use it. As someone with sensitive skin, I also really appreciate that it's fragrance-free.”—Sarah Felbin, senior commerce editor

More to know

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• Scent options: 1
• Key ingredients: lactic acid, phytic acid, mandelic acid, volcanic pumice, glycerin
• Size: 8 fl oz.

Shake on It: Urea Hand Cream

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Cyklar

Urea Hand Cream

$22

Sephora

Felbin applying the Cyklar Urea Hand Cream in Sacred Santal

Sarah Felbin

Why it’s worth it: Don’t wave off hand care, especially if you’re prone to overwashing your hands. Cyklar’s Hand Cream is another urea-powered formula that gently buffs away dead skin while glycerin, snow mushroom, and ectoin attract moisture for lasting hydration. The texture is surprisingly lightweight, sinking in almost instantly without leaving behind that heavy, greasy feeling. The cream comes in five divine scents, including three of the brand’s fan-favorites: Naked Neroli, Vanilla Verve, and Sacred Santal, turning a simple act into a mini ritual. And like all of Cyklar’s packaging, the tube is super cute with its rounded top, so it’ll look right at home on your vanity, desk, bedside table, and the list goes on.

Tester feedback from Felbin

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“In the winter, my hands are constantly dry (sometimes to the point of cracking). I slather this on any time they start to feel scaly. It sinks in quickly (no greasy finish here) and immediately makes my hands feel softer. I love the formula—rich and deeply hydrating, but not so thick that it sits on top of my skin. My hands look and feel visibly more moisturized right after I use it, and the more I apply it, the better. I also really like the packaging—it's a large tube, so I know it'll last me a few months, and the marbled cap looks so luxe. Plus, the Sacred Santal scent is divine! I was genuinely surprised that this hand cream is only around $20 a tube. The formula and packaging feel much fancier! I'd recommend it to people with super-dry hands who want a cream that not only performs well, but smells great, too.” —Sarah Felbin, senior commerce editor

More to know

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• Scent options: 5 (Vanilla Verve, Bergamot Bond, Naked Neroli, Sacred Santal, and Rose Bud)
• Key ingredients: urea, glycerin, ectoin, squalane, snow mushroom
• Size: 2.2 fl oz.

Lush Lather: Sensorial Body Wash

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Cyklar

Sensorial Body Wash

$35

Amazon

$35

Sephora

Why it’s worth it: Pair this Body Wash with the brand’s Nutrient-Rich Body Cream (more on this guy below) for a scent-sational combo—in other words, wash and moisturize in the same fragrance for an extra-long-lasting effect. The silky thin gel formula develops into a rich lather, leaving skin feeling clean and soft, but never stripped. The reason being: Sodium PCA boosts hydration, while fatty acid water—basically, coconut in a water-soluble form—helps repair, smooth, and protect your moisture skin barrier. For further nourishment, a powerhouse multi-oil complex (hello, argan, jojoba, avocado, grapeseed, and meadowfoam seed oils) plus glycerin helps curb dryness and retain moisture like it never existed in the first place. At 16.5 fl oz, we appreciate that it’s generously sized to keep your skin pampered for months—because luxury like this should last.

Tester feedback from managing editor Alessandra Foresto

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“I'm new to Cyklar and I honestly don't know why it took me so long to try their products. Amongst the many body washes that line the shelves of my shower, I've been reaching for this one the most. It might be the nice luxe packaging or that one pump into a loofah is all I need to fully suds up. The citrusy scent on this body wash is complex. I can really smell the layers of notes starting with bergamot and getting warmer as my shower goes on. But despite being pretty fragrant, it does not leave my skin dry or irritated. For a body wash, it's not cheap, especially if, like me, you end up showering twice a day pretty often, but luckily a little bit goes a long way.” —Alessandra Foresto, managing editor

More to know

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• Scent options: 7 (Rose Bud, Vanilla Verve, Sacred Santal, Bergamot Bond, Naked Neroli, Crescent, and Fragrance-Free)
• Key ingredients: sodium PCA, fatty acid water, multi-oil complex, glycerin
• Size: 16.5 fl oz.

Balm Dot Com: In-Shower Body Oil Balm

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Cyklar

In-Shower Body Oil Balm

$29

Sephora

Why it’s worth it: Is it a lotion? Is it an oil? It’s actually Cyklar’s In-Shower Body Oil Balm, a hybrid that’s meant to be applied right after you turn off the shower. The genius lies in the timing: Instead of drying off with a towel before applying moisturizer, you smooth it on while your skin is at peak dampness. The formula melts into skin and leaves behind the feel of a lightweight body oil. A blend of skin-mimicking lipids helps hydrate and support the barrier, while ceramides and coconut seed butter deliver deep moisture. Glycerin pulls and locks in hydration, helping skin stay soft and resilient. We hadn’t tried anything quite like this before—but now that we have, we’re not going back to our old routines.

Tester feedback from commerce editor Sarah Han

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“I’m one of the laziest people when it comes to body care—I spend so much time on my face and neck, and am ready to hit the sack by the time I’ve gone through all the steps. So an in-shower product like this is actually a game-changer. I do a little shimmy to shake off the excess-excess water droplets before slathering on the silky balm-oil. While I do still technically feel the product on my skin as I step out and into bed, it doesn’t bother me at all and is worth the time-saving application. My skin always feels soft-to-the-touch and makes me think, ‘Ah yes, maybe I should actually invest in body care.’” —Sarah Han, commerce editor

More to know

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• Scent options: 2
• Key ingredients: multi-lipid complex, ceramides, glycerin, coconut seed butter
• Size: 5 fl oz.

Pure Radiance: Vitamin C Body Oil

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Cyklar

Vitamin C Body Oil

$38

Amazon

$38

Sephora

Why it’s worth it: Even if you swear you’re not a body oil person, Cyklar’s Vitamin C Body Oil will change your mind. The formula melts instantly, leaving skin touchably silky and radiant. Vitamin C 101: This antioxidant brightens and fades discoloration, while replenishing the moisture barrier and shielding your skin from environmental stressors. Alongside ectoin and the brand’s signature multi-oil blend—refresher: argan, jojoba, avocado, grapeseed, and meadowfoam seed oils—and squalane, this luxe oil prevents dehydration and adds suppleness.

Just one pump goes a long way on freshly-cleansed damp skin (the brand’s recommended usage), and the three scent options (Naked Neroli, Vanilla Verve, and Sacred Santal) linger to make you feel as if you’re enjoying a spa day. To support lymphatic drainage and circulation, you can purchase a duo of the body oil and a body contour tool, which supports lymphatic drainage and circulation.

More to know

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• Scent options: 3 (Vanilla Verve, Sacred Santal, and Naked Neroli)
• Key ingredients: vitamin C, ectoin, multi-oil blend, squalane
• Size: 4.2 fl oz.

Frequently Asked Questions

Meet the experts

• Adam Friedman is a board-certified dermatologist based in Washington, DC.

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 Cyklar products, 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 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.

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There's nothing quite like the Oscars to make us wish that adult proms were a thing. There's just so much elegant beauty inspo to gain from watching the Academy Awards that it's a shame we don't all have our own “biggest night in [your town here]” to recreate it.

That being said, there's really no reason not to take the best hair, makeup, and nail looks seen on the red carpet and incorporate them into everyday life. Why wait for a wedding when you can emulate Emma Stone's hair for a Monday all-hands meeting? Or take a photo of Teyana Taylor's nails to the salon for your very next manicure?

We're rounding up the most stunning looks of the Oscars, otherwise known as the most anticipated event of award season and the pinnacle of red carpet glamour. If you can't find your ultimate adult prom dream glam—or just an idea for date night—here, you can't find it anywhere.

Emma Stone

Photo: Getty Images

The only thing more luminous than Emma Stone's sparkling, platinum Louis Vuitton gown is her matching shimmery eye shadow. Topped off with lush lashes, her eyes are arguably the focal point of the seven-time nominee's makeup look, though we have to shout out her peachy-pink lips and cheeks. And it seems Stone's side-parted hair may be on its way out of bob territory and into the lob zone, its flippy ends reaching well past the standard chin-length look. Mara Roszak used the ghd Chronos Curve Grand Iron to add some bends and worked a small amount of her Röz Evergreen Styling Cream through the ends to refine the shape and add soft definition.

Teyana Taylor

Photo: Getty Images

No matter how her night turns out award-wise, Teyana Taylor has definitely won the status of the queen of graphic eyeliner. She has made it her signature look throughout the season, and we'll never get enough of those exaggerated inner corners and winged out outer edges. “To create Teyana’s eye look, I applied Chanel Le Crayon Yeux Precision Eye Definer in Noir Black to define the eyes,” says makeup artist Yeika Glow. “Then, I applied Chanel Les 4 Ombres Multi-Effect Quadra Eyeshadow in Spices to add depth, shape, and softness, while keeping her natural look intact.” She went the signature route with her pixie, too. Hairstylist Nikki Nelms used the Dyson Supersonic r Professional Hair Dryer to refine the shape finishing the look with a double shot of hairspray: OGX Flexible Hold Hairspray and Strong Hold Hairspray A fan of nail art, Taylor went a little more subtle for her first Oscar nomination, with an icy white look that picks up elements of her feathery dress. Nail artist Sarah Chue used Aprés Gel Couleur in Baby’s Breath followed by Celestial.

Elle Fanning

Photo: Getty Images

It's not every Oscars that you see an A-list nominee wearing a no-makeup makeup look with a princess gown, but Elle Fanning is fully, joyfully pulling it off. She's wearing the lightest layer of mascara—if any at all—with a hint of shimmer on her lips and a wash of sheer pink on her cheeks. Makeup artist Erin Ayanian Monroe let you actually see her skin, freckles included, which esthetician Louise Deschamps treated with the Pure Daily Care NuDerma High Frequency Wand in preparation for this big career milestone. Her hair was Grace Kelly-elegant, with a low chignon by Jenda Alcorn. “Once the hair was perfectly sleek, I gathered it low at the nape of the neck and sculpted it into a classic chignon, securing it carefully with pins while maintaining a soft, balanced shape,” Alcorn says. “To finish, I misted L’Oréal Paris Elnett Satin Extra Strong Hold Unscented Hairspray to lock in the style while keeping the hair touchable and natural.”

Rose Byrne

Photo: Getty Images

Best Actress nominee Rose Byrne could not have looked like more of a classic beauty. A simple yet elegant updo by Harry Josh—who secured her low bun with the Kerasilk Texturizing Finishing Spray—was topped off a timeless makeup look: Dior Rouge Dior in #846 Concorde Velvet Finish as the centerpiece, supported by a wash of gray eye shadow from Diorshow 5 Couleurs in #073 Pied-de-Poule, and sweet, rosy cheeks.

Wunmi Mosaku

Photo: Getty Images

Wunmi Mosaku absolutely dazzled in a sparkling teal Louis Vuitton dress, custom-made for the first-time nominee, who topped off her exquisite look with a sculptural hairstyle by hairstylist Araxi Lindsey. Inspired by coral reefs, Lindsey secured each section of Mosaku's hair into braids using SheaMoisture Kalahari Melon Oil Curl Stretch Muti-Tasking Volume Cream before wrapping them with Afro-textured 4C hair. "Once the pieces were sculpted into their final shapes, I finished the look with SheaMoisture Smooth & Shine Lightweight Hair Oil to add definition and a luminous finish,” Lindsey says. Mosaku wore one of the only darker nail looks of the night—a rich mahogany shade by Aprés called Blood Moon applied by nail artist Sarah Chue. undeniable luminosity isn't just that pregnancy glow—it's also the result of esthetician Joanna Czech's pre-event expertise and skin-care lineup.

Nicole Kidman

Photo: Getty Images

Nicole Kidman's hair is the epitome of wearable volume. Her long, loose waves practically hover above her head as if there's no gravity in its atmosphere. Hairstylist Adir Abergel used his Virtue Volumizing Primer on the roots. Once dry, he smoothed out her hair using a Denman Head Hugger Brush for a tousled blowout, followed by adding Bellami 18-inch Silk-Seam Clip-Ins in Dirty Blonde and Golden Hour Blonde, as well as 18-inch Tape-Ins in Golden Amber Blonde. Finally, he used the WavyTalk Cool Curl Pencil to put in natural bends.

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Chase Infiniti

Photo: Getty Images

One Battle After Another star Chase Infiniti is a pastel vision in her lilac gown, which is echoed on her eyelids with a shimmery, pale purple shade. The rest of her makeup, which makeup artist Amber Dreadon prepped with Summer Fridays Jet Lag Mask, feels especially fresh with gleaming, pink lips and matching cheeks. Her super-long hair, made all the more romantic with little braids and loose ends, is such a mermaid moment. Hairstylist Coree Moreno used Briogeo Style + Treat Yuzu + Plum Oil Light Work Sculpting Crème along the braids and hairline to smooth flyaways and sculpt without weighing her hair down, smoothing the Arachne SmoothBoost Brush lightly over the finished style. “I wanted the braids to feel intentional and architectural while the length stayed soft and fluid,” Moreno says. "It’s about creating a balance between control and freedom so the hair moves beautifully while still holding its shape.”

Audrey Nuna

Photo: Getty ImagesPhoto: Getty Images

Sure, nail art is cool, but how about nail sculptures? Kpop Demon Hunters' Audrey Nuna wore show-stealing golden nails with gold metal balls atop and underneath each one. Her makeup look is one of her softest of the season, with touches of mauve on her lips and cheeks, and wisps of her hairline gently placed on her glowing skin.

Misty Copeland

Photo: Getty Images

Misty Copeland, who came out of retirement for a beautiful ballet moment during a performance celebrating the music of Sinners, came to the red carpet with the freshest of faces. Makeup artist Mali Boykin used Merit Flush Balm in Stockholm for a translucent flush, which she matched with a more matte lip using Merit Signature Lip Blush in Andie, an easy-to-wear baby pink. We got to see every inch of her glowing skin thanks to her sleek ballerina bun—just one of three different hairstyles she wore. (And you can read all about them here.)

Charithra Chandran

Photo: Getty Images

Bridgerton breakout star Charithra Chandran's updo feels simultaneously fully formal and casual thanks to a balance of sleekness and ease. The no-hair-out-of-place center part pulls back into a pretty knot that ends with an everyday vibe thanks to her ends left loose at the nape of her neck. Chandran's skin, prepped by Joanna Czech with the Swiss Perfection collection, served as a flawless canvas for her makeup, composed of gorgeous shades of honey and brown that work with absolutely anything—but especially her gorgeous, green gown.

Barbie Ferreira

Photo: Getty Images

Hi Barbie! Barbie Ferreira brought the Old Hollywood glam with her long, deeply side-parted waves. Clayton Hawkins started by applying Amika Plus Size Perfect Body Mousse to her damp hair. “Once the hair was blown out, I added a couple rows of Donna Bella clip-in extensions in a mix of 5N and 3N for volume and texture memory,” he says. He then curled it with a combination of a 1.25-inch iron and an old-school roller set. Her makeup, on the other hand, is entirely modern with a lightly smoky eye, nude-pink lips, and the wispiest, fluttery lashes imaginable. She also wore one of the biggest nail trends of the last few years: simple, milky beige.

Lea Myren

Photo: Getty Images

The Ugly Stepsister star Lea Myren looked like anything but on her first Oscars red carpet, serving an incredible makeup and hair look we'll be trying to copy countless times. Her makeup artist wasn't shy with the eye shadow, also fully lining her blue eyes in a black pencil. But the standout detail is truly the long lashes on the bottom outer corner. That wispiness is reiterated in her updo's loose ends atop her head, which hosts a knot that comes together with a curtain-like swoop on either side of her middle part.

Danielle Brooks

Photo: Getty Images

Danielle Brooks brought full-blown goddess energy to the red carpet with her '90s supermodel hair, full of volume and oomph-y, loose curls, which framed her matte-yet-glowing skin. The neutral tones of her makeup paired perfectly with her pale, champagne gown, and her oodles of diamonds feel completed by her jewelry-like nail art.

McKenna Grace

Photo: Getty Images

“Pretty in pink” is an understatement when it comes to McKenna Grace's dreamy, princess-like look at the Oscars. “With her stunning gown, my goal for McKenna Grace was to make her look like the most classic, fresh-faced beauty in soft pink and rosy tones,” says makeup artist Allan Avendaño. That includes Stila Convertible Color Nourishing Liqua Tint in Flirty Freesia on her cheeks—and even a little on her nose and chin—as well as Dr. Althea 345 Relief Cream Mist to help blend and hydrate as he went. But we especially love the use of Stila's iconic Kitten Eyeshadow to highlight the inner corners of her eyes. Her updo is anything but fussy, with ends left poking out of the bottom of a beautiful knot and long curtain bangs framing her face.

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

While we all wish we had the steadiest sleep schedules, the best undereye masks come in handy when we need a quick refresh. These supercharged, patch-sized doses of your favorite skin-care actives tackle puffiness, dryness, dark circles, and fine lines in record time—but, like with all skin care, show the best results when used consistently. Many are single-use for an instant hit of hydration and glow, while others are reusable, locking in your favorite eye creams or serums for deeper, longer-lasting results. Chill them in the fridge for a cooling wake-up call, or let them do their magic at room temperature—either way, they’re a treat your undereyes will thank you for.

Our Top Undereye Masks

• Best Overall: CosRx The Peptide Collagen Hydrogel Eye Patch, $23
• Best Splurge: Chanel Le Lift Flash Eye, $120
• Best for Puffiness: Abib PDRN Retinal Eye Patches, $23
• Best for Dark Circles: SkinMedica Instant Bright Eye Mask, $50
• ​​Best Non-Slip: Summer Fridays Jet Lag Eye Patches, $24

Below, we’ve rounded up the best undereye masks, with expert insights from dermatologists and insider picks from our editors.

Frequently Asked QuestionsAccordionItemContainerButtonLargeChevron

• What are the benefits of using undereye masks?
• How do I know if an undereye mask is working?
• Meet the experts
• How we test and review products
• Our staff and testers

Best Overall: CosRx The Peptide Collagen Hydrogel Eye Patch

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Cosrx

The Peptide Collagen Hydrogel Eye Patch

$23

Amazon

$23

Ulta Beauty

Allure associate beauty editor Annie Blay-Tettey wearing the CosRx The Peptide Collagen Hydrogel Eye Patch

Annie Blay-Tettey

Why it's worth it: CosRx’s Peptide Collagen Eye Patches are “ideal for sensitive and delicate skin, delivering a cooling dose of hydration while helping to de-puff, plump, brighten, and smooth the undereye area,” says La Jolla, California-based dermatologist Dr. Azadeh Shirazi, MD. Much of that comes down to a lineup of ingredients that do exactly what you want an eye treatment to do. Niacinamide helps brighten and even tone, while caffeine visibly de-puffs and energizes tired eyes. Vitamin B12 also soothes and calms the delicate skin around the eyes, and hyaluronic acid draws moisture into the area, keeping it smooth and hydrated. The formula also includes adenosine—a molecule your body naturally produces—to nudge skin cells into producing more elastin so skin gradually appears firmer. Together with peptides and collagen, these patches leave the eye area looking bright, bouncy, and ready for anything.

Tester feedback from associate beauty editor Annie Blay-Tettey

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“After having an allergic reaction that left the skin around my eyes dry and sensitive, these eye patches came to the rescue. I love how light and hydrating they are—plus the eye serum left over after removing the mask is hydrating, making my undereye area feel soft, smooth, and supple.” —Annie Blay-Tettey, associate beauty editor

More to know

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• Key ingredients: collagen, peptides, hyaluronic acid, caffeine, adenosine, vitamin B12
• # of patches: 60
• Duration of use: single-use

Best Reusable: Dieux Forever Eye Mask

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Dieux

Forever Eye Mask

$25

Sephora

$25

Dieux

Allure senior news editor Nicola Dall’Asen wearing the Dieux’s Forever Eye Mask

Nicola Dall'Asen

Why it's worth it: The aptly named Dieux Forever Eye Mask is designed to work with the products you already love. Instead of coming pre-soaked in a one-time formula, these reusable silicone patches are meant to be layered over your favorite eye cream, gel, or serum to help lock everything in so it can better absorb—think of them as a little occlusive boost for whatever treatment you’re using. Simply apply your product, place the masks under your eyes, and let them hang out for 10 to 20 minutes while your skin drinks it all up. When you’re done, gently peel them off, rinse with soap and water, and tuck them back into their tin until next time. (Head’s up: The logo may fade after about a year, but the patches themselves are still perfectly usable.) Use a light layer of product—too much can make the masks slip.

Tester feedback from senior news editor Nicola Dall’Asen

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“​​My favorite morning ritual is to stop halfway through my skin-care routine—just after applying the best eye cream—to pop these undereye patches on and make myself a latte, giving the products I put on a moment to settle while completing another task I would have otherwise done after the fact. It doesn't just offer me a moment of peace in an otherwise hectic time of day; it gives my undereyes an instant boost of hydration that makes me look more alert and sets me up for makeup success." —Nicola Dall’Asen, senior news editor

More to know

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• Key ingredients: silicone
• # of patches: 1 pair
• Duration of use: 1+ years

Best Splurge: Chanel Le Lift Flash Eye

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Chanel

Le Lift Flash Eye

$120

Chanel

Allure commerce editor Sarah Han applying the Chanel Le Lift Flash Eye patches

Sarah Han

Why it’s worth it: Unlike Chanel’s rich and decadent Le Lift eye cream—designed for everyday maintenance—these patches are all about speed. They “deliver an instant depuffing effect while keeping the undereye hydrated,” says New York City-based dermatologist Dendy Engelman, MD. Much of that comes from hydrators like hyaluronic acid and glycerin, which help plump delicate undereye skin so fine lines look softer and more refreshed. Yeast-derived Saccharomyces cerevisiae extract helps condition the area, while escin (from horse chestnut) targets the look of swelling. If you’re in the mood for an extra self-care moment, Chanel also recommends pairing the patches with a few simple massage gestures—gently smoothing outward toward the temples and gliding under the eyes—to help wake up tired skin and enhance the brightening effect.

Tester feedback from commerce editor Sarah Han

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"Right off the bat, I like how they're a little bigger than your average patch, because my undereyes and outer corners (where crow's feet creep up as we age) could use all the extra love. I also appreciate how soaked they feel in between my fingers, but they don't drip at all (a pet peeve of mine). They also adhere well, and I never worry about them slipping as I move about the apartment. The packaging says to leave them on for five minutes, but I always go over to at least 10 minutes.

My undereyes look a bit brighter overall, especially when it comes to the softened discoloration near the inner corners. If I remember to next time, I could definitely use a small face roller (I have one with a much smaller head on one side) to promote even deeper absorption, but I'm satisfied using them as-is. The patches are a great "primer" for my concealer, too, since I don't really like how heavy certain primers feel in that very thin area.

Of course, anything Chanel is bound to be pricey, but I'm truly impressed with how healthy and hydrated my undereyes look after each session. And I would be lying if the Chanel logo doesn't make me feel a little bougie. I'm a Taurus—what can I say? I love little luxuries, and these eye patches are 100% those." —Sarah Han, commerce editor

More to know

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• Key ingredients: hyaluronic acid, glycerin, Saccharomyces cerevisiae
• # of patches: 10 pairs
• Duration of use: single-use

Best for Puffiness: Abib PDRN Retinal Eye Patches

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Abib

PDRN Retinal Eye Patches

$23 $20 (13% off)

Amazon

$28

Yesstyle

Allure contributing commerce writer Christa Joanna Lee applying the Abib PDRN Retinal Eye Patches

Christa Joanna Lee

Why it’s worth it: The hero of these eye patches is a vegan PDRN—a K-beauty favorite traditionally derived from salmon sperm and known for its ability to support skin repair, refine texture, and help tone look more even over time. Here, it’s reimagined with plant-powered sources: soothing cica (also known as Centella Asiatica), antioxidant-rich ginkgo biloba leaf to help calm and protect delicate skin, and bamboo to help support elasticity. The result delivers the same skin-reviving benefits, with an added dose of calming comfort.

Another standout is retinal, the gentler version of vitamin A known for smoothing the look of wrinkles and accelerating skin renewal—without the intimidation factor of prescription formulas. It’s balanced with barrier-supporting ceramides, plumping collagen, and brightening niacinamide. Since retinal appears toward the end of the ingredient list (and the brand doesn’t disclose the exact percentage), it’s likely included at a lower level—making it a softer introduction to vitamin A around the eyes. They have an embossed design that grips the skin to avoid slipping, so you can wear these while you vacuum, lounging on the couch, FaceTime your friend—you name it.

Tester feedback from contributing commerce writer Christa Joanna Lee

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“I keep these patches at my desk because they’re the easiest way to sneak in a little skin care between meetings. Instead of waiting until bedtime—when I’m usually too tired to commit to much of a routine—I can just pop them on while answering emails, and they won’t slide off. The patches are absolutely dripping with serum, but the jelly-like hydrogel texture gives them enough grip that they stay put. This was one of my first products trying PDRN, and I love how refreshed and hydrated my undereye area looks after using them. The retinal is a gentle dose, but it still gives a nice little boost when it comes to softening the fine lines that have started showing up on my Tired Mom Face.” —Christa Joanna Lee, contributing commerce writer

More to know

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• Key ingredients: cica, ginkgo biloba leaf, bamboo, retinal
• # of patches: 60
• Duration of use: single-use

Best for Dark Circles: SkinMedica Instant Bright Eye Mask

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SkinMedica

Instant Bright Eye Mask

$50

Amazon

$50

Dermstore

$50

SkinMedica

Allure contributing commerce editor Deanna Pai applying the SkinMedica Instant Bright Eye Mask

Deanna Pai

Why it's worth it: SkinMedica’s Instant Bright Eye Mask recharges tired eyes with a concentrated combo of antioxidants and moisture-boosting extracts. Golden root extract helps protect delicate skin against environmental stressors with its antioxidant properties, while baker’s yeast supports skin’s natural ability to retain moisture, leaving the undereye area soft and supple. The hydrogel patches also deliver an instant cooling effect that soothes puffiness and helps reduce the look of dark circles. “This option is great for those with mature, aging skin who may see more fine lines and wrinkles. It hydrates, brightens, rejuvenates, and brings a more youthful look, plus the gel texture feels amazing upon application,” says Anna Chacon, MD, a board-certified dermatologist, based in Miami.

Tester feedback from contributing commerce editor Deanna Pai

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"I usually find undereye masks to be slimy and generally annoying—and without enough payoff to balance out the drawbacks. Enter these, which actually feel luxurious—with a comfortable grip and smooth outer side, which makes them much easier to apply—and brightened my eyes in under 10 minutes. My entire eye looked more refreshed, which is why they've become my go-to before things like weddings and the rare night out." —Deanna Pai, contributing commerce editor

More to know

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• Key ingredients: golden root extract, baker’s yeast, golden herb extract
• # of patches: 6 sets
• Duration of use: single-use

Best for Nighttime: Beauty of Joseon Revive Under Eye Patch

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Beauty of Joseon

Revive Under Eye Patch

$22 $20 (9% off)

Amazon

$20

Sephora

Allure senior commerce editor Sarah Felbin wearing the Beauty of Joseon Revive Under Eye Patch

Sarah Felbin

Why it’s worth it: The Beauty of Joseon Revive Under Eye Patches are our go-to before-bed pick, thanks to a cocktail of firming and hydrating ingredients that work while you sleep. Retinal (a gentler retinoid) helps boost firmness and smooth the appearance of fine lines. Ginseng root water and collagen drench the delicate area in moisture, while bakuchiol refines texture and peptides support elasticity over time. The gel patches feature a wing-shaped design made from non-slip hydrogel that hugs the skin comfortably. They’re also some of the thinnest on this list, which makes them light enough to stay locked in place. Just don’t forget your SPF in the morning, since the active ingredients can increase sun sensitivity

Tester feedback from senior commerce editor Sarah Felbin

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“These patches feel so fancy; I'm actually shocked they're only $20. The texture is lovely—each patch is paper-thin and has a jelly-like feel that's gently cooling on the skin. I also love that they stick well, so I can leave them on for a full 20 minutes without having to adjust them. Every time I use them, my undereyes look much more hydrated and feel super-soft. Oh, and the patches look beautiful, too (they have a shimmery pink sparkle that's truly gorgeous).” —Sarah Felbin, senior commerce editor

More to know

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• Key ingredients: ginseng root water, collagen, retinal, bakuchiol, peptides
• # of patches: 60
• Duration of use: single-use

​​Best Non-Slip: Summer Fridays Jet Lag Eye Patches

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Summer Fridays

Jet Lag Eye Patches

$24

Amazon

$24

Sephora

Allure senior commerce director Shanna Shipin wearing the Summer Fridays Jet Lag Eye Patches

Why it's worth it: You know that age-old trick of placing slices of cool cucumbers under your eyes? Summer Fridays’ Jet Lag Eye Patches take it up several notches. Infused with cucumber extract, glycerin, and hyaluronic acid, they drench the delicate undereyes in soothing, plumping hydration. Niacinamide brightens, panthenol calms, and caffeine helps deflate puffiness so you look more awake in minutes. In addition, peptides support elasticity over time, making these hydrogel patches as good for long-term care as they are for an instant refresh.

Tester feedback from senior commerce director Shanna Shipin

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“Non-slip undereye masks? These are the small (but very notable) details that Summer Fridays pays attention to, and really make the brand feel like it gets you as a beauty lover. As a dedicated Jet Lag devotee (I have the moisturizer in so many iterations, from the classic to the travel mini to the serum version to the mist—and spoiler: I love them all for my dry skin), this was a very natural extension of my routine. They're cooling, hydrating, so cute to look at—that serene blue is so special—and, just like the other Jet Lag products, they leave my skin looking bouncier, dewier, and with a really pretty glass-like finish that feels as good as it looks.” —Shanna Shipin, senior commerce director

More to know

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• Key ingredients: glycerin, hyaluronic acid, niacinamide, cucumber extract, panthenol, caffeine, peptides
• # of patches: 6 pairs
• Duration of use: single-use

Best for Sensitive Skin: Mario Badescu Hydrogel Under Eye Patches

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Mario Badescu

Hydrogel Under Eye Patches

$32

Amazon

$32

Ulta Beauty

Allure senior art director Ingrid Fowler wearing Mario Badescu’s Hydrogel Undereye Patches

Ingrid Fowler

Why it's worth it: Mario Badescu's Hydrogel Undereye Patches are what we like to call "the whole shebang." Ideal for all skin types, including sensitive, these babies are loaded with skin-friendly hyaluronic acid, caffeine, red algae, niacinamide, and tiger grass to depuff, brighten, and soothe tired undereyes in one fell swoop. Use the included spatula to lift the powder-blue patches from their container, gently place them beneath your eyes, and soak up all that hydrating serum goodness for 10 to 20 minutes. Pro tip: Pat (don't wipe) any leftover serum into your skin—because why waste even a single juicy drop?

Tester feedback from senior art director Ingrid Fowler

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"Masks and patches often make my face burn or tingle, but I don't get that at all with these Mario Badescu Hydrogel undereye patches. They feel very hydrating and cooling, which is exactly what I want from a relaxing eye patch experience. Each set feels very covered in product, but not so much that it is difficult to handle or apply. I also love that the box explains different ways to wear them—I prefer the wide side of the patch on the inside!” —Ingrid Fowler, senior art director

More to know

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• Key ingredients: hyaluronic acid, caffeine, red algae, niacinamide, tiger grass
• # of patches: 30 pairs
• Duration of use: single-use

Best for Mature Skin: Shiseido Vital Perfection Uplifting and Firming Express Eye Mask

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Shiseido

Vital Perfection Uplifting and Firming Express Eye Mask

$90

Amazon

$90

Nordstrom

Allure contributing commerce writer Christa Joanna Lee applying Shiseido Vital Perfection Uplifting and Firming Express Eye Mask

Why it's worth it: You already know we’re big fans of retinol, and Shiseido’s Vital Perfection Uplifting and Firming Express Eye Mask is packed with the rejuvenating ingredient to help soften and plump fine lines and smooth the delicate eye area. The brand’s proprietary Matsu-ProSculpt Complex encourages circulation to visibly deflate puffiness and bags, while benibana flower energizes and lifts for a more awake look. Antioxidant-rich botanical extracts, such as those from camellia sinensis and olive root, also help defend against daily damage, so skin looks brighter and more resilient with every use. Our tester especially loved the generous size of the patches, which extend beyond the undereye area to cover much of the upper cheek—meaning more skin gets the smoothing, firming treatment and that lifted, well-rested look.

Tester feedback from Lee

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“I’ve tried plenty of undereye masks that feel like they skimp on product, but these are the opposite—the thicker fabric is saturated enough to feel downright decadent. The upper curve didn’t quite match my eye shape, but I loved how the larger surface area stretched across my cheeks, making it feel like a mini facial for my whole face. By morning, my skin felt deeply moisturized, less puffy, and I needed noticeably less concealer under my eyes.” —Christa Joanna Lee, contributing commerce writer

More to know

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• Key ingredients: retinol, matsu extract, benibana flower, caffeine
• # of patches: 12 pairs
• Duration of use: single-use

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the benefits of using undereye masks?

David Kim, MD, a New York City-based board-certified dermatologist, explains to Allure that undereye masks can offer a range of benefits. "Eye masks can occlude the undereye area to improve the delivery of active ingredients, whether for hydration or brightening," says Dr. Kim. Common ingredients may include vitamin C for brightening, hyaluronic acid to hydrate, peptides to plump, retinol to help resurface, and the list goes on. In the case of reusable undereye masks, the silicone works as a vacuum-like seal to better deliver the aforementioned actives, courtesy of skin-care products like gels, creams, and serums.

The cooling effects of undereye masks can also be beneficial. New York City-based board-certified dermatologist Robert Anolik, MD, explained to Allure that eye puffiness occurs from vessel dilation, and placing a cool object on the undereyes can help the vessels constrict to reduce swelling. Adam Friedman, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in Washington, DC, added that in addition to reducing puffiness, coolness can help relieve itchiness in the eye area, which "can worsen puffy eyes due to rubbing them."

How do I know if an undereye mask is working?

"Undereye masks are just like your eye creams or any skin-care product in that you have to be consistent and use it regularly to see a difference," says Dr. Kim. "Don't expect doing the brightening eye mask one time before a special event will magically solve your skin concerns. Be steady and consistent." With time, you'll begin to notice softened fine lines and less morning-time eye puffiness. Often, reusable undereye masks are a tool to improve the effects of your skin-care products, so keep in mind that if you aren't noticing improvement, consider adjusting the other products in your routine.

Meet the experts

• Adam Friedman, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in Washington, DC
• Anna Chacon, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in Miami
• Azadeh Shirazi, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in La Jolla, California
• David Kim, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in New York City
• Dendy Engelman, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in New York City
• Robert Anolik, MD, is 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 undereye masks, we considered each product's performance across five primary categories: product ingredients and efficacy, packaging, fragrance, texture, and product wear. Every product was determined to have excelled in each category by our editorial team of in-house writers and editors, as well as contributors, along with special consideration from 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.

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When I was a kid in the late '90s, I begged my mom for colored contacts. They were heavily advertised in magazines around that time and to me, nothing was cooler than going from my regular old blue eyes to violet or turquoise or emerald green. My mom did not give into my pleas, which was probably a good thing, though I do still find colored contacts fascinatingly fun—and so, it seems, does Kim Kardashian, who wore a pair to Vanity Fair Oscar Party and looked like a totally different person!

Now, if we know anything about Kardashian, it's that we should never assume what she'll wear or how she'll glam up for an event. She loves a well-timed beauty surprise, like messy platinum hair at the Met Gala or antique feathers in her updo. The Skims founder isn't afraid to take a chance or do something different, and for the Oscar Party, that meant icy, blue-gray eyes!

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Seriously, are we absolutely, positively sure that's Kimberly Noel Kardashian behind those pale-blue peepers? Gone were her dark brown eyes and in their place, a super-light frosty blue with a subtle hint of gray. If you just glanced at her on the red carpet, you'd think, “Oh look, that's a pretty classic Kim Kardashian glam moment!”: a collarbone-length bob artfully arranged in tousled waves, a sparkly, fitted gown, and long lashes with a nude lip. But upon closer examination, you'll notice that not only is she wearing colored contacts, she even matched her eye shadow to her eye color with a soft wash of a blue-gray shade across her lids and in the inner corners. Maybe it is time to finally invest in a pair of those much longed-for colored contacts now that I have grown-up money to spend!

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The first male celebrity I ever interviewed about his beauty routine was James Franco at a Coach event when he was a brand ambassador, circa 2018. When I asked what his skin care routine was, he said, “Uhh, I use… Kiehls, I guess,” looking to this PR handler for the OK to say so. In those days, gaining access to male celebs at a beauty magazine like Allure involved a lot of polite declines from talent managers who expressed regret that their Marvel superhero client did not wish to disclose they used products that might be associated with such feminine things as washing their faces. All right, so they may not have said that directly, but I was perplexed by how allergic famous men seemed to be to any public-facing proximity to beauty.

So imagine my sheer “Huh??” upon seeing an influx of men— straight, hunky ones—shilling for beauty brands in the past couple of weeks. Perhaps most splashy was reality TV star Rob Rausch’s sculpted abs and chest announcing “M.A.C. is at Sephora,” emblazoned in the brand’s iconic Ruby Woo lipstick in a mirror selfie. The campaign rollout followed with images of him wearing a black cowboy hat branded with the M.A.C. Cosmetics logo.

Rob Rausch during an appearance at Sephora.

Photo: Getty Images

Ed Westwick starred in Lâncome’s Juicy Tubes nostalgia campaign, monologuing as his Gossip Girl character Chuck Bass. Chad Michael Murray also participated in the campaign, reminiscing about his kissing scene in A Cinderella Story with co-star Hilary Duff. “Kisses are better with Juicy Tubes,” both men crowed in their respective ads. Actor Harris Dickinson starred as the face of Rhode’s Glazing Mist (the brand’s first male star in a campaign). More subtly, Milk Makeup teased the launch of its HydroGrip Gel Concealer on Heated Rivalry star Connie Storrie at the 2026 Golden Globes. And Merit Beauty posted a look breakdown featuring its products on his co-star Hudson Williams’s face as he carried the torch at the 2026 Milano-Cortino Olympics.

WWD has called this “Heartthrob Marketing,” as we’re seeing more and more desirable men being tapped to market products to female demographics in traditionally feminine markets, like beauty. Men, who ostensibly are not and would not be using these products themselves. Men, who aren’t even necessarily wearing the promoted products in the campaigns. Just men, in close proximity to a beauty product. I’d love to know how their talent managers strategized these appearances.

I’d also love to know: why?

I’ll admit, my instincts veer toward skepticism (sometimes cynicism if I doom-scroll too much). Engagement has no gender; this is true. But when it comes to the fandoms these “internet boyfriends” tend to attract, women will always prevail, and how. I immediately thought of the steep rise of romance in literature and cinema (romance remains the highest-grossing genre in literary fiction), and how both champion the HEA (“happily ever after” for the uninitiated), usually involving a heterosexual pairing.

What do women—particularly young women who are also discerning beauty consumers—want most? If you go by the countless TikTok videos, podcasts, and discourse revolving around dating culture, they want a handsome man who embodies conventional good looks (“in finance, 6’5, trust fund, etc.”), possesses emotional complexity and intelligence, and is secure enough with his masculinity to share his hypothetical girlfriend’s feminine hobbies (like beauty). This would be sweet if done in earnest. I love introducing men to skin care products and fragrances they get excited about.

Connor Storrie at the 2026 Golden Globes, where he debuted Milk Makeup’s newest concealer.

Photo: Getty Images

But would I want to buy a M.A.C. Cosmetics lipstick from Rob Rausch’s abs? Would Love Island’s Jeremiah Brown, The Summer I Turned Pretty’s Sean Kaufman, Tyriq Withers, or Jesse McCarthy inspire a trip to Ulta Beauty? The brand’s holiday campaign featured these heartthrobs, captioned, “Hotties who shop at Ulta on Black Friday? That’s my type.” Why should Harris Dickinson’s dewy, freshly-misted visage cause me to hit “add to cart” any quicker than if it were featured on Hailey Bieber’s face instead?

For those born post-9/11, you’d be remiss not to notice the rather unsubtle nod to early aughts marketing that featured hunky guys idling in proximity to the thing being marketed. Abercrombie & Fitch (the hottest mall store of the first decade of this century, arguably) stationed shirtless male models like sexy sentries outside the entrances of its stores, luring in customers: the girls who wanted to get a closer look and maybe a cheeky wink from the models, and the guys who wanted to shop at the store most associated with being a hunky guy. Of course, the models themselves were not for sale, but the point was that surrounding your store (or brand) with hot dudes made the brand more attractive altogether.

The Y2K era was a strange contradiction of over-sexualizing young people while also upholding prudish values. The biggest fashion trends (low-rise jeans, visible whale-tail thongs, and cleavage galore) pushed the boundaries of how sexually suggestive a girl could dress to be considered cool and desirable, until she dared to act upon the suggestion, in which case she’d immediately be labeled a slut. Think Britney Spears debuting in a sexy schoolgirl outfit in her breakout single “Baby, One More Time” and then having to discuss her virginity pledge endlessly in interviews.

“Burnout from a decade of girlboss culture, the defeating reality of 'having it all,' and modern masculinity’s cultural crisis are making us miss simpler times. ”

Y2K nostalgia has been the marketing playbook in beauty for a while now, as Gen Z are rediscovering the styles that millennials and Gen Xers once wore. But as wistful as my mall-trawling days were, it’s hard not to reminisce with modern viewpoints, all of which find a lot of the misogyny-fueled, fatphobic, homophobic culture of that time really icky.

Nostalgia can be a soft place for your mind to rest for a bit of respite from the endless scroll of modern trappings. It can also be a quicksand pit, keeping us stuck in stagnation. Burnout from a decade of girlboss culture, the defeating reality of “having it all,” and modern masculinity’s cultural crisis are, of course, making us miss simpler times. And it’s manifesting in ways that overshoot into regression and gender essentialism (if the direction of our current political and social climate’s views on women’s bodily autonomy are any indication).

Are we nostalgia-ing too close to the sun? GLP-1s have made thinness injectable. Even eyebrows are getting thinner again. There have always been tensions between diet culture and desirability, which we’re now revisiting in a skinny-is-back flashback (it never went away, technically), even as gourmand scent profiles and dessert-themed beauty are more popular than ever. The physics of trend cycles has us revisiting an era that demanded women own their sexual empowerment via “10 ways to please your man” sex columns and weight-loss fad diets.

Trends reliably cycle back every 30 years, but a lot has changed in the last 10 alone, as we all were reminded by the recent “2016 is the new 2026” social media trend.

Instagram content

Empowerment marketing of the 2010s has given way to indulgence and desire. I think we’ve caught on that constant consumption is not empowering and is, in fact, deleterious to our mental and emotional well-being, not to mention our finances and the environment. Now that women are “empowered” in all conventional ways that we understand power to operate (largely through economic and social mobility), our spending power has brands questioning how to lure the so-called female gaze. Men may no longer be a requirement for women to have a life of security and comfort (and many of us are realizing that men may not be any additive benefit to our quality of life until they catch up with our expectations for true partnership). But that doesn’t necessarily mean we desire them any less (those of us who are attracted to men at all, anyway).

What comes after empowerment? Desire naturally follows when resources are secure, abundant even. And nostalgia prevails when we are uncertain about the future. Conditions for mentally checking out (or maladaptive daydreaming, according to my therapist) are ripe. If the fantasy of having it all involves an attractive partner—something beauty products have historically marketed themselves to secure—these hunky spokesmodels can stand in as some glimmer of that fantasy. Perhaps this new angle really is just dangling hot men as the carrot on a stick in front of a horse headed for Sephora, which is where M.A.C. Cosmetics arranged for a fan meet-and-greet with Rausch to fête their entering the retailer. And what’s a better fantasy to market than a potential meet-cute? That is, until Rausch’s newly hard-launched girlfriend brings us all back to reality.

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Black hair has historically been both policed and overlooked. Cosmetology training programs have long ignored textured hair in curricula, school dress codes have banned protective styles, and the mainstream hair-care market tends to prioritize products for looser curl patterns. But anti-Blackness and discrimination against Afro-textured hair have only pushed Black people to create what we need to care for our naturally curly and coily textures. The number of Black-owned and -founded hair products on the market has increased over the years, creating more options to care for our hair—and more avenues for sustainable wealth within the community of Black entrepreneurs.

In the early 2000s brands like SheaMoisture, Miss Jessie's, and Carol's Daughter paved the way with formulations that worked for a range of natural textures and with marketing that celebrated the beauty of Black hair. Two decades later, more Black-owned natural hair brands are lining shelves with leave-ins, deep conditioning treatments, and oils that nourish, style, and treat our hair. Outside of wash-day staples, now we have a bevy of stylish accessories such as satin-lined turbans and colorful headwraps to protect our delicate coils.

The brands here are owned or founded by Black people, but that doesn’t mean they work only for Black hair—all races and textures can benefit from these products. Take a scroll below through some of the Black-owned and -founded brands and products Allure editors believe deserve a spot in your routine.

Melanin Haircare

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Melanin Haircare

Multi-Use Softening Leave-In Conditioner

$36

Sephora

You can't talk about the natural hair movement of the 2000s without mentioning Whitney White. The hair blogger’s YouTube channel, Naptural85, was an invaluable resource for millions of people learning how to style and care for natural hair. In 2018, after years of reviewing other brands’ products and sharing DIY recipes, White launched her own line, Melanin Haircare. The brand’s current product range includes a shampoo, deep conditioner, hair oil, styling cream, deep conditioner, and hair accessories.

Star product: After just one use, you'll be a fan of the extremely nourishing Multi-Use Softening Leave-In Conditioner. It’s formulated with moisturizing ingredients like aloe vera, argan oil, and baobab seed oil.

Bread Beauty Supply

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Bread Beauty Supply

Bread Beauty Supply Hair-Foam: Curl Defining Mousse

$26

Ulta Beauty

$26

Sephora

Bread Beauty Supply founder Maeva Heim launched her brand in 2020 with a simple ethos: “Embrace your frizz.” She kept to the basics—shampoo, deep conditioner, and oil—for the initial offerings. Today her collection includes 13 products that are simply great.

Star product: The Hair-Foam: Curl Defining Mousse defines curls without weighing them down or leaving them crunchy. Keratin fibers increase humidity resistance, while glycerin keeps stands hydrated.

Cécred

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Cécred

Moisturizing Deep Conditioner

$40

Cécred

Many people forget that, long before she was captivating audiences worldwide, Beyoncé was a preteen sweeping up hair in her mother’s Houston salon. With the help of her mom (who goes by Mama Tina), Beyoncé tapped into her love for hair care in 2024 with the launch of Cécred. The line includes a deep conditioning mask, a clarifying shampoo, and a fermented rice protein treatment that got the Allure team buzzing over its innovative packaging—the rice protein powder comes with a shaker bottle to mix the treatment with water and dispense directly onto the hair.

Star product: “The Moisturizing Deep Conditioner is the product I’m recommending to all my friends who want to try Cécred,” says Allure editor in chief Jessica Cruel. It has a luxurious consistency that is heavy-duty enough to moisturize thick coils and curls.

Miche Beauty

Miche Beauty was founded in 2016 by husband-and-wife duo Michelle and Jonathan Ballard. The brand has become a go-to for textured-hair routines thanks to its thoughtfully formulated products, featuring ingredients including aloe vera, honey, and botanical oils. From deeply hydrating conditioners to styling creams that deliver definition without crunch, Miche Beauty’s lineup is designed to simplify wash day while keeping textured hair moisturized and healthy.

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Miche

Set Gel-to-Foam Styling Mousse

$23

Miche

Star product: Recently the brand has been going viral on TikTok for it's Set Gel-to-Foam Styling Mousse—known for it's ability to define curls with a long-lasting yet touchable hold. Don't believe the hype? Just watch the countless videos of women using it and see that the bouncy, shiny results speak for themselves. Plus, the bestseller is often sold out—though thankfully it's always available for pre-order.

Donna's Recipe

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Donna's Recipe

Sweet Potato Pie Extra Creamy Hair Cream

$16

Ulta Beauty

Tabitha Brown went viral back in 2020 with her soulful vegan recipes and her soothing auntie-like aura, but her beautiful hair—which took up half the frame in most videos—could not be ignored. Brown shared her hair secrets with the world when she co-founded Donna’s Recipe in 2021 (Donna is the name Brown affectionately calls her hair.)

Star product: Allure editors with textured hair fell in love with the Sweet Potato Pie Extra Creamy Hair Cream. Not only is it deeply moisturizing, but it also elongates curls while providing a lightweight hold. It also smells delicious.

Highbrow Hippie

Founders Kadi Lee and Myka Harris started Highbrow Hippie with a dream to combine their two worlds of hairstyling and wellness. Lee, who is a colorist for celebs like Julia Roberts and Kristin Davis, boasts years of hair care expertise. Harris, an herbalist and brand strategist, brings her business acumen and botanical knowledge. Together, the two created a line that is powered by plants (like Ashwagandha, pea sprout, and Camellia Sinensis flower) and that adds an element of ritual to your hair-care routine.

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Highbrow Hippie

Root Replenish Active Growth Serum

$88

Highbrow Hippie

Star product: The Root Replenish Active Growth Serum is like a cool drink of water for your scalp—especially when wearing a protective style. Sodium benzoate helps to balance the pH of the scalp by preventing the growth of bacteria and yeast, while rice water hydrates and soothes.

Taliah Waajid

Taliah Waajid knows ball when it comes to natural hair—she started a hair-care business when she was just 14. The cosmetologist fell in love with natural hair care through necessity—her mom refused to perm her hair as a child, forcing her to learn how to manage her curls on her own. What started as obligation grew into a passion project and eventually, a full-fledged brand. Taliah Waajid is praised for its moisture-rich wash essentials, as well as its stylers designed to support healthy, natural hair.

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Taliah Waajid

Curly Curl Cream

$9

Amazon

Star product: The Curly Curl Cream is a dream for those who have tighter curls and coils and who love to do styles like twist outs and braid outs. Shea butter coats each strand in moisture while the creamy texture provides easy slip for combing and styling.

Pattern Beauty

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Pattern Beauty

Scalp Serum

$29

Amazon

$29 $24.65 (15% off)

Nordstrom

$29

Ulta Beauty

Tracee Ellis Ross has always been known for her voluminous curls, so it made perfect sense when she launched her hair-care line, Pattern Beauty, in 2019. "I was dreaming about doing this all through high school," Ross previously told Allure. The first Pattern Beauty drop included a shampoo, three different conditioners (medium, heavy, and intense), two hair oil serums, a brush, a clip, and a microfiber towel. Ross has since added items like an Afro pick, a scalp serum, and a curl-conscious blow-dryer, and a hand-held steamer.

Star product: The Pattern Beauty Scalp Serum is like a cool drink of water for your scalp. The nozzle tip makes it easy to apply the thin gel, especially if you’re wearing a protective style. The peppermint and rosemary oil help to soothe and offer a light botanical scent.

Dizziak

With five different textures on her head, founder and former journalist, Loretta De Feo, started Dizziak in 2018 because she couldn't find any products that worked for her. The London-based brand boasts formulas that hydrate the hair, promoting healthy strands that look and feel good. The tightly-edited product range has amassed a following of many British it-girls, including Dua Lipa, who discovered the range after dying her hair red. The singer loved it so much, she signed on as an investor.

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Dizziak

Deep Conditioner

$38

Dizziak

Star product: The Deep Conditioner is chockfull of nourishing ingredients including aloe vera, argan oil, babassu oil, castor oil, and quinoa protein. A healthy squeeze of the sleek tube produces a rich cream that, when applied to wet hair, deeply moisturizes for soft strands.

TPH by Taraji

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TPH By Taraji

Slick Edge Control

$10 $7.59 (24% off)

Sally Beauty

Like many people, Taraji P. Henson got very into self-care during the pandemic. In 2020, she turned that passion into TPH by Taraji. The beauty line includes hair- and body-care products such as the New Levelz conditioner, the Master Cleanse scalp wash, and the Anything Glows body oil.

Star Product: The Slick Edge Control is perfect for touching up edges on the go. The tube packaging makes it easy to bring anywhere, and the flat top makes it great for creating those time-consuming, protective styles. Instead of squeezing out the gel multiple times, you can squeeze out a lot of product to sit on the flat surface of the cap for fast and easy use.

Sienna Naturals

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Sienna Naturals

Dew Magic Leave-In Conditioner

$28

Credo Beauty

$28

Revolve

For years, Issa Rae tested products for her sister-in-law Hannah Diop’s hair-care brand, Sienna Naturals, which launched in 2012. In 2020, Rae joined Diop as co-owner, just in time for a rebrand. The company makes plant-based products for all types of natural hair textures.

Star product: The Dew Magic Leave-In Conditioner has a lightweight, milky texture that sinks into the hair and adds moisture to even the coarsest textures.

The Doux

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The Doux

Big Poppa Defining Gel

$13 $12 (8% off)

Amazon

$12

Walmart

Maya and Brian Smith were high-school sweethearts before becoming business partners and cofounders of The Doux. Maya, a licensed cosmetologist, opened her first salon in Germany in 2008 while her husband was stationed there in the military. Three years later, when they relocated back to Atlanta, the couple launched The Doux. The brand is best known for products that create well-defined, long-lasting styles like twist-outs and wash-n-gos.

Star product: The Doux Big Poppa Define Gel is one of the brand’s most popular items—it even won a Best of Beauty award in 2022. It defines curls and coils with a non-flaky hold while nourishing hair with glycerin.

Design Essentials

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Design Essentials

Almond & Avocado Curl Enhancing Mousse

$16

Amazon

$17

Ulta Beauty

A mainstay in many salons that specialize in textured hairstyling, Design Essentials has all you need to properly care for every curl pattern. Entrepreneur Cornell McBride launched the Design Essentials hair-care system in 1990 after years of working in the health- and beauty-aids industry. The brand now offers a wide range of products you can shop based on curl type, hair needs, and ingrediens. There really is something for everyone.

Star product: A quality mousse is a necessary tool in every naturalist’s arsenal. In our opinion, it doesn’t get better than the Almond & Avocado Curl Enhancing Mousse, which keeps frizz at bay, defines curls, and adds a light sheen.

Adwoa Beauty

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Adwoa Beauty

Baomint Moisturizing Curl Defining Gel

$15

Amazon

$32

Sephora

Founder Julian Addo named her hair-care brand after her Ghanaian traditional name, Adwoa. Addo began her career in hairstyling when she was just 14 years old and over two decades, later launched Adwoa Beauty in 2017. While natural hair has many needs, Adwoa Beauty recognizes that moisture is high on that list. Each product contains moisture-boosting and -sealing ingredients like glycerin, baobab oil, blue tansy, and shea butter.

Star product: We love the Baomint Moisturizing Curl Defining Gel so much that we gave it an Allure Best of Beauty Award in 2022. The lightweight gel adds definition to curls without leaving flaky residue.

Charlotte Mensah

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Charlotte Mensah

Manketti Hair Oil

$55

Dermstore

This Ghanaian-owned hair-care brand is as luxe as it gets. Founder Charlotte Mensah is an acclaimed British hairstylist and owner of Hair Lounge in London, so when she launched her brand in 2016, it was no surprise that the hair-care line quickly became popular, especially in England. The brand’s Manketti Oil range features six simple products that will take you through your entire wash day, transforming it from a chore into a luxurious ritual.

Star product: The Manketti Oil is a rich formula that locks in moisture when used on wet hair and adds shine to dry hair after styling.

Camille Rose

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Camille Rose

Curl Maker Defining Gel

$23

Ulta Beauty

$18

Amazon

Janell Stephens started Camille Rose in her kitchen to address the eczema on her children’s skin and scalp. In just three years, Stephens grew the brand, entering retail partnerships with stores like Target, Sally Beauty, CVS, and Ulta Beauty. There’s a Camille Rose product for every hair concern: The brand’s vast product range focuses on dryness, breakage, and dullness. The styling line’s gels, mousses, and leave-ins are sure to upgrade your favorite natural hairstyles.

Star product: The Camille Rose Curl Maker is the secret weapon for your twist-out needs. The lightweight gel defines curls while adding a soft hold.

TGIN

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TGIN

Honey Miracle Hair Mask

$19

Ulta Beauty

After getting a law degree from Harvard, Chris-Tia Donaldson pivoted to her passion for beauty, starting TGIN (Thank God It’s Natural) in 2009. The brand, now helmed by CEO Aris Singleton, is sold at retailers like CVS, Sally Beauty, and Target. TGIN may be a bit more low-key in profile, but if you’re in the know, you know how effective its products are.

Star product: The Honey Miracle Hair Mask is great for thirsty strands that need a healthy dose of moisture. Raw honey and jojoba oil give hair deep nourishment that lasts long after wash day.

Briogeo

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Briogeo

Don't Despair, Repair! Super Moisture Conditioner

$39 $33.15 (15% off)

Nordstrom

$39

Ulta Beauty

$39

Dermstore

You’ve probably seen the Black-founded hair-care brand Briogeo while walking down the aisles of Sephora or Ulta Beauty. Wella acquired Briogeo in 2023, but founder Nancy Twine stayed on as CEO, continuing her involvement with the brand and championing its mission for women of color. Briogeo is known for formulating solution-based products, leaving out potentially concerning ingredients such as microplastics and aerosols.

Star product: The Don't Despair, Repair! Super Moisture Conditioner won an Allure Best of Beauty Award in 2021 (and has won our Readers’ Choice Awards six times) for its moisture-packed formula that is chock-full of amino acid-rich marine algae extract.