Category: TRAINING

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Maybe it’s the colder weather (a.k.a. cuffing season) or the nonstop stream of Hallmark holiday movies, but winter inspires us to settle in with our favorite romantic movies. And this winter’s biggest hair trends are straight out of a Nancy Meyers film: soft and romantic with an emphasis on easy, natural colors and textures.

There’s a look for every type of cinephile: Cheeky copper and shaggy ’80s bobs are for fans of Sixteen Candles and Pretty in Pink. The warm cinnamon and cozy mid-length layers of Something’s Gotta Give are an annual winter rewatch. Or refined and delicately styled pixies and crispy clean blondes, if you prefer a ’60s spy romance, or maybe French New Wave is more your speed.

From every era of the silver screen, these winter hair trends are as sweeping and romantic as our favorite movie night love stories. Below, the experts share the styles that will be everywhere this season and how to get the looks.

Glossy espresso

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Picture this: You’ve entered a coffee shop in a New England town (Boston or Providence). The street outside is cobblestone (duh) and dusted with snow, and the most beautiful woman you’ve ever seen is sitting at a table sipping a latte and reading Descartes. Or Virginia Woolf? You totally forget because suddenly she flips her glossy espresso-colored hair over her shoulder (which smells great, by the way) and you’re in love.

This romantic lead goes low-maintenance but high-impact. You’d cast Marion Cotillard, Minnie Driver, or Anne Hathaway. Espresso is a deep but cozy color for winter weather and is universally flattering. But the healthy shine is what makes heads turn. “Glossy hair reads as luxury,” says Dallas-based hairstylist Deisy Alfaro.

A single-process color should do the trick. “Ask for a rich brunette with a cool espresso base,” Alfaro says, along with a demi-permanent gloss to seal in shine and give it that reflective quality.

Copper rose

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Copper rose is the embodiment of rose-colored glasses in a hair color—an ’80s movie heroine with optimism and softness. “There’s a cultural appetite for vintage references that don’t feel costume-y,” says Lena Ott, a New York City-based colorist. This color scratches that itch: It’s Robyn Lively in Teen Witch, reimagined for 2025.

This color is “something between a classic redhead and a rose-blonde with shine that feels fresh, not brassy,” says Ott. Ask for copper with a soft pink overlay. “The base is lifted to a bright copper, then toned with a diluted pink or peach glaze. Glossing is key to keeping it luminous, not flat.”

Cinnamon toast

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Our cravings have turned sweeter of late—an eggnog at night and cinnamon toast for breakfast helps keep the chill at bay. And so a warm hair color craving follows suit: A toasted blonde with swirls of cinnamon is sweet and spicy all at once.

“It’s a softer take on summer’s bright blondes,” says Alfaro. “Perfect for clients who don’t want to fully transition into brunette.” Alfaro notes that it’s especially stunning on medium skin tones or those with naturally light hair who want some depth. Ask for a neutral blonde balayage or teasy lights blended with cinnamon lowlights.

Crisp blonde

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A crisp, bright blonde conjures up images of Hollywood past: Grace Kelly, Marilyn Monroe, Veronica Lake. Now, she’s a Gwyneth Paltrow, a Michelle Williams, or a Sabrina Carpenter.

The difference? Today’s towheaded starlets don’t have time to maintain a true platinum (they have Marvel movies and album tours to worry about), so they opt for a slightly softer and more wearable hue, like Redken 10GI Tahitian Sand, with some slight root shadow for depth (and an easier grow-out). “The clean blonde flatters fair to medium skin tones,” says Ott. “Especially when the soft root shadow prevents the color from washing someone out.”

“The color reads as platinum under red carpet lights, but it’s just a clean, double-process blonde,” she adds. Ask for it followed by a sand-beige toner and some root shadow, so the look is “grounded, not icy.”

Natural highlights

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This protagonist seems not to even have to try. Bluebirds flit around her when she leaves her home in the morning, she’s volunteering at animal shelters and retirement homes, and her hair just happens to have a gorgeous, natural, soft dimension à la Jennifer Lawrence or Daisy Edgar-Jones.

We can’t help you with the bluebirds (try birdseed?), but natural highlights are within reach for just about anyone. “Blondes, redheads, and brunettes can all achieve this look,” says New York City-based colorist Kirsten Stuke. “Soft pops of brighter pieces give a lived-in look without the harsh growth line of demarcation.” Which means you can focus on planning the town square holiday party (where you will bump into the love of your life!) and not need to find time for a salon visit. “Ask for a more toned-down, natural, rooty highlight that will grow out effortlessly,” says Stuke.

Refined pixie

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A romance with a dangerous French stranger or a ride on the back of a Vespa calls for something pretty and refined (we’re in Europe for this movie, after all), but something that also says, “I’m not afraid to get on the back of this man’s motorbike without a helmet.”

Celebrities like Carrie Coon and Brie Larson have resurrected this delicate crop lately, and it's an easy, elegant look this season (and it doesn’t lose its charm after wearing a winter hat or, ahem, a helmet). “The cut is close and sculpted with precision scissor work around the ears and nape, left slightly longer at the crown for softness,” says Travis Speck, a New York City-based hairstylist.

“Short cuts like these can work on many people; it’s more about attitude and tweaking the details,” adds Los Angeles-based hairstylist Michael Duenas, but straight and slightly wavy hair types will have an easier time achieving that iconic, young Mia Farrow look.

Curly wolf cut

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There’s something soft and Shakespearean about long, gentle curls. Tracee Ellis Ross and Grace Bowers capture that vibe and balance it with a shaggy, wolf cut length to keep the style cool and modern: Rosalind in 2025. Juliet with an iPhone and Ray-Ban aviators.

Those with naturally curly or wavy hair can get the look by asking for “a layered cut that focuses on face-framing curls and crown volume,” says Alfaro, who sculpts this look with both wet and dry cutting to customize for curl patterns and maintain bouncy volume.

Full, blunt bangs

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Full bangs are a cool, down-to-earth leading lady. The one who runs the ranch back at home, looks great in every pair of jeans, and teases you for becoming too “big city” and forgetting your small town roots (even though she definitely looks like she has a Fifth Avenue blowout and her nails have never seen a day of manual labor). Cast Taylor Swift or Dakota Johnson in the role.

Chicago-based hairstylist Raven Hurtado expects to be cutting a lot of these full, blunt bangs this winter, thanks largely to how dramatically they can change a look without having to lose major length or do a 180 from blonde to raven. Plus, the fullness of this season's fringe makes it a little more wind-proof (fluttery curtain bangs tend to blow back in winter weather, and they aren’t terribly suited for hats).

’80s shag bob

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For the lovers of quirky, coming-of-age romcoms, a bouncy haircut is as necessary as a good tape deck. Somewhere between a shag and a bob lies Molly Ringwald’s iconic feathery style—“a chin-to-cheekbone length cut with layered, rounded edges,” says Ott. “It’s a direct nod to Molly Ringwald’s 1980s silhouette, but the modern versions are more fluid.” Today, you’ll spot it on the likes of Pamela Anderson, Tina Leung, and the runways in Milan and Paris.

“It brings your hair’s natural texture to the forefront,” says New York City-based hairstylist Devin Toth, which is why it’s a particularly great cut for thick, curly, or wavy hair. “Make sure the shorter curls on top of the crown are styled forward into your bangs area,” he says. The face-framing pieces give it a cool, tousled, I’m-not-afraid-of-after-school-detention look.

Mid-length butterfly layers

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Early aughts movies were defined by a few things. A high-stress job at a fictional magazine, an “opposites attract” love story, and mid-length hair with fluttery layers. Kate Hudson in How to Lose a Guy in 10 Days or Jennifer Garner in 13 Going on 30. It’s a look that practically begs you to root for it. It’s universally flattering and an ideal in-between or transitional style while growing your hair out, offering movement without looking too “styled,” says Alfaro.

It’s important that the layers stay delicate and not too heavy, adds Chicago-based hairstylist Sanda Petrut. “[Your stylist] can use slide cutting or point cutting for softer ends,” she says.

Meet the experts

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• Deisy Alfaro is a hairstylist specializing in curly hair and the owner of Pixie Glam Studio in Fort Worth, Texas.
• Lena Ott is a New York City-based colorist and the founder and creative director of Suite Caroline salon.
• Kirsten Stuke is a New York City-based colorist at Suite Caroline.
• Travis Speck is a New York City-based hairstylist at Suite Caroline.
• Michael Dueñas is a Los Angeles-based hairstylist and co-founder of Arove haircare.
• Raven Hurtado is a Chicago-based hairstylist at Maxine Salon.
• Sanda Petrut is a Chicago-based hairstylist at Maxine Salon.

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If the skin under your eyes has been looking dull, crepey, or dry lately, it is time to invest in one of the best hydrating eye creams. Your undereyes are thinner and more delicate than the rest of your face, which is why they’re usually the first place to show fine lines or puffiness. While your regular moisturizer can handle most of your skin’s needs, the eye area calls for something a little more targeted—think lighter textures, soothing ingredients, and formulas that won’t sting or migrate into your eyes. Whether you’re dealing with dark undereye circles, makeup settling into creases, or seasonal dryness, these editor- and derm-approved picks will help keep your undereyes plump, smooth, and hydrated.

Our Top Hydrating Eye Creams

• Best Overall: SkinCeuticals A.G.E. Advanced Eye, $125
• Best for Mature Skin: RoC Retinol Correxion Eye Cream, $30
• Best for Sensitive Skin: Biossance Squalane + Marine Algae Eye Cream, $56
• Best for Droopy Lids: Innbeauty Project Extreme Cream Eye, $48
• Best for Dry Skin: Belif Aqua Bomb Eye Gel, $32
• Best for Hyperpigmentation: Chantecaille Blanc Peony Eye Serum Dark Spot Corrector, $235
• Best for Puffiness: Isdin Isdinceutics Vital Eyes Night Eye Cream, $112
• Best Drugstore: CeraVe Eye Repair Cream, $20

Frequently Asked QuestionsAccordionItemContainerButtonLargeChevron

• What does an eye cream do that a facial moisturizer can't?
• Can hydrating eye creams reduce fine lines or dark circles, or do they just moisturize?
• What eye cream should I use if I have sensitive eyes??
• Meet the experts
• How we test and review products
• Our staff and testers

Best Overall: SkinCeuticals A.G.E. Advanced Eye

SkinCeuticals

A.G.E. Advanced Eye

$125

SkinCeuticals

$125

Dermstore

$125

Bluemercury

Allure contributing commerce editor Deanna Pai applying the SkinCeuticals A.G.E Advanced Eye

Deanna Pai

Why it's worth it: A.G.E. isn’t just an ironic acronym—it stands for advanced glycation end-products, molecules that form when sugar binds to proteins like collagen and elastin, speeding up visible skin aging. The 2023 Best of Beauty Award-winning SkinCeuticals A.G.E. Advanced Eye cream targets this process with a blend of peptides for deep hydration, caffeine to reduce puffiness, and antioxidant-rich extracts from pomegranate and bilberry to brighten and protect. Other hydrating ingredients, such as glycerin and sorbitol, help keep the delicate undereye area smooth and supple. “With regular use, patients have definitely noticed a decrease in the appearance of fine lines around the eyes,” Lauren Penzi, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in New York City, previously told Allure.

Tester feedback from contributing commerce editor Deanna Pai

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“I have really deep crow’s feet when I smile—the downside of having an expressive face—but this stuff has helped soften their look and keep them from getting further etched in when my face is at rest. It feels balmy and nourishing but not heavy, and I appreciate that it hasn’t seemed to exacerbate the milia around my eyes.” —Deanna Pai, contributing commerce editor

More to know

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• Key ingredients: caffeine, peptides, proxylane, flavonoids
• Fragrance-free: yes
• Ophthalmologist-tested: yes

Best for Mature Skin: RoC Retinol Correxion Eye Cream

RoC

Retinol Correxion Eye Cream

$30 $22 (27% off)

Amazon

$30

Ulta Beauty

Allure commerce editor Sarah Han applying the RoC Retinol Correxion Eye Cream

Sarah Han

Why it's worth it: Once upon a time, you could only get retinol with a doctor’s prescription—but RoC helped change that, being one of the earliest brands to introduce over-the-counter formulas. So, you can bet the brand knows a thing or two about retinols. The 2025 Best of Beauty Award-winning RoC Retinol Correxion Eye Cream pairs gentle yet effective retinol with moisture-replenishing ingredients like glycerin, panthenol, and vitamin E to “smooth fine lines, fade dark circles and hyperpigmentation, plus improve skin texture where it’s thinnest,” says Aegean H. Chan, a double board-certified dermatologist based in Santa Barbara, CA. The added hydrators help buffer the potential irritation from retinol while keeping the delicate undereye area moisturized and supple. Because retinol can increase sun sensitivity, “I recommend using it at night, layered with a thicker moisturizer to help reduce irritation, especially if you’re not already using facial retinols,” says Dr. Chan.

Tester feedback from commerce editor Sarah Han

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“RoC's eye cream has been a tried-and-true formula for many years now. I'm probably aging myself by linking to this review I wrote in 2021, but with the added years (I'm 32 now), my concerns about volume loss and creasing around the eyes are even more prevalent, so RoC's Retinol Correxion Line Smoothing Eye Cream has made its way back into my nighttime rotation. After all, not much can beat retinol in terms of wrinkle-reducing efficacy. I've never had any sensitivity using it either, perhaps because irritating-soothing glycerin is one of the top ingredients. All in all, this is a very affordable eye cream that outperforms many pricier formulas.” —Sarah Han, commerce editor

More to know

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• Key ingredients: retinol, glycerin, panthenol (pro-vitamin B5)
• Fragrance-free: yes
• Ophthalmologist-tested: not disclosed

Best for Sensitive Skin: Biossance Squalane + Marine Algae Eye Cream

Biossance

Squalane + Marine Algae Eye Cream

$56

Amazon

$56

Sephora

Allure contributing commerce writer Christa Joanna Lee applying the Biossance Squalane + Marine Algae Eye Cream

Christa Joanna Lee

Why it's worth it: Recognized by the National Eczema Association, Biossance Squalane + Marine Algae Eye Cream is fragrance-free and packed with gentle ingredients like squalane, glycerin, and panthenol to hydrate and soothe without irritation. “Squalane, in particular, is a fantastic ingredient for supporting the skin barrier, which is why I like this eye cream for those with sensitive skin. It helps give the formula a lovely, light texture on application,” says Dr. Chan. Fun fact: The brand’s squalane is sustainably derived from sugarcane rather than traditional shark liver, making it a win for both your skin and the planet. With added peptides and sustainably sourced marine algae, this cream leaves the delicate eye area soft, calm, and subtly refreshed.

Tester feedback from contributing commerce writer Christa Joanna Lee

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“This eye cream feels incredibly smooth and silky; there’s absolutely no tugging on my sensitive undereyes. When my skin’s feeling extra dry, those fine lines tend to pop, but this delivers a deep dose of hydration that plumps everything right back up. I’ll admit, I wasn’t wild about the natural scent at first, but it fades almost instantly—and the buttery texture completely makes up for it.” —Christa Joanna Lee, contributing commerce writer

More to know

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• Key ingredients: squalane, algae, paracress extract, hyaluronic acid
• Fragrance-free: yes
• Ophthalmologist-tested: not disclosed

Best for Droopy Lids: Innbeauty Project Extreme Cream Eye

Innbeauty Project

Extreme Cream Eye

$48

Sephora

$48

Kohl's

Allure senior news editor Nicola Dall’Asen applying the Innbeauty Project Extreme Cream Eye

Nicola Dall'Asen

Why it's worth it: If your lids are starting to look a little saggy—or just feel dry and tired—Innbeauty’s Project Extreme Cream Eye brings them back to life. Hydration is key for droopy lids because well-moisturized skin looks firmer and more elastic. This ophthalmologist-tested formula combines humectants like glycerin and tremella mushroom extract that draw in moisture with emollients like squalane that lock it in, leaving skin soft and supple. It’s also loaded with peptides to help firm and tighten over time, while botanical extracts like Centella asiatica and paracress soothe and support elasticity.

Tester feedback from senior news editor Nicola Dall’Asen

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“This is the grocery store rotisserie chicken of eye creams: It's thick, juicy, and hits every time without fail. Given that it looks and feels more expensive than it actually is, I like to take my time with it as if I were a rich lady with all the time in the world for pampering. After washing and toning my face, I only need one pump to fully slather the area above and under both eyes. Then I slap on some silicone eye patches, pour a (probably too big) glass of wine, and let it get to work while I catch up on my shows. But regardless of whether I leave it on for five minutes or 30, I always come away with brighter and more retentive undereyes. In this tiring-AF time, that's more than I could ever ask for.” —Nicola Dall’Asen, senior news editor

More to know

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• Key ingredients: paracress, biomimetic peptides, bio-retinol, amino acids, snow mushroom
• Fragrance-free: yes
• Ophthalmologist-tested: yes

Best for Dry Skin: Belif Aqua Bomb Eye Gel

Belif

Aqua Bomb Eye Gel

$32 $30 (6% off)

Amazon

$32

Ulta Beauty

$32

Revolve

Allure senior director of audience development Lexi Herrick applying the Belif Aqua Bomb Eye Gel

Lexi Herrick

Why it's worth it: Just like its name suggests, Belif Aqua Bomb Eye Gel provides an instant splash of hydration—the kind that feels lightweight, absorbs fast, and leaves your undereyes looking plump and refreshed. This K-beauty favorite (and 2025 Allure Best of Beauty Award winner) doesn’t just hydrate: It brightens, firms, and wakes up tired eyes. Caffeine and hyaluronic acid team up to depuff and drench skin in moisture, while niacinamide and vitamin C help fade the look of dark circles. Meanwhile, adenosine and collagen visibly smooth and boost elasticity. Bonus: The pen-like applicator and cooling ceramic tip make it easy to get a refreshing pick-me-up anytime you need it.

Tester feedback from senior director of audience development Lexi Herrick

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“The applicator for this eye cream is incredibly smooth and easy to use. This is one of my favorite products to bring with me when traveling or on the go. It's so gentle and hydrating, instantly adding moisture to my undereyes. I also have very sensitive skin under my eyes, and this has never given me an ounce of irritation.” —Lexi Herrick, senior director of audience development

More to know

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• Key ingredients: caffeine, hyaluronic acid, niacinamide, vitamin C, adenosine, collagen
• Fragrance-free: yes
• Ophthalmologist-tested: yes

Best for Hyperpigmentation: Chantecaille Blanc Peony Eye Serum Dark Spot Corrector

Chantecaille

Blanc Peony Eye Serum Dark Spot Corrector

$235

Nordstrom

$235

Dermstore

$235

Bluemercury

Allure associate beauty director Sarah Kinonen applying the Chantecaille Blanc Peony Eye Serum Dark Spot Corrector

Sarah Kinonen

Why it's worth it: Let’s say it one more time for the people in the back: We love a cooling-tip applicator when it comes to eye creams. The Chantecaille Blanc Peony Eye Serum Dark Spot Corrector nails it on the chic design and luxe feel, but it’s also so much more than sleek packaging. Known for incorporating botanicals into nearly all their skin-care formulas, Chantecaille packs this brightening serum with white peony extract to help even tone and proprietary thiamidol to visibly fade dark spots over time. Ginger extract and peptides smooth and energize tired eyes, so the entire area looks more even in tone and texture.

Tester feedback from associate beauty director Sarah Kinonen

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“I’m…exhausted. Between the nonstop stream of horrific news and being back in the office four (!) days a week, my body just can’t catch up, and it’s beginning to show in the form of perpetual puffy undereyes. My only reprieve? Aside from some much-needed extra sleep, my tired undereyes are loving their new 30-second cooling treatment with the Chantecaille Blanc Peony Eye Serum every morning. Its metal applicator cools on contact as the lightweight fluid—made with brightening peony extract and anti-inflammatory niacinamide—glides right onto sleepy skin. Now, if only it could make me some coffee too." —Sarah Kinonen, associate beauty director

More to know

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• Key ingredients: white peony, bitter ginger extract, thiamidol, peptides
• Fragrance-free: yes
• Ophthalmologist-tested: not disclosed

Best for Puffiness: Isdin Isdinceutics Vital Eyes Night Eye Cream

Isdin

Isdinceutics Vital Eyes Night Eye Cream

$112

Amazon

$112

Dermstore

Han applying the Isdin Isdinceutics Vital Eyes Night Eye Cream

Sarah Han

Why it's worth it: Made to work while you snooze, Isdin Isdinceutics Vital Eyes Night Eye Cream syncs up with your skin’s natural overnight repair mode so you wake up looking a little more rested. A key ingredient, “caffeine, is excellent for helping limit water retention,” says Morayo Adisa, MD, a board-certified dermatologist in Chicago. While the formula taps caffeine’s depuffing powers, glycerin draws in hydration, shea butter locks it in, and rice extract helps smooth and soften delicate undereyes. The brand’s LiftFirm complex—a blend of red sea algae and evergreen tree extracts—helps firm and tighten the skin. There’s also melatonin, which adds an antioxidant boost, helping repair damage from daily stressors as you rest. Come morning, your eyes look brighter and noticeably less puffy.

Tester feedback from Han

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“I usually toss applicators as soon as I open packaging (sorry, not sorry), but this sizable metal ball actually adds to the experience, so it's staying! It's extra cooling, doubling as a massage tool as I circle around my eyes, and I find it actually helps the product sink in, so I barely have to use my finger pads at all. While you need to use an eye cream long-term to see more noticeable effects, I'm already quite impressed. After my first few uses, I didn't feel the need to apply concealer! (And I always feel like I need at least a dab under my eyes to hide discoloration and make me look awake, so this is major.)” —Sarah Han, commerce writer

More to know

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• Key ingredients: melatonin, LiftFirm (read sea algae and evergreen tree extract), rice extract, caffeine, red algae
• Fragrance-free: no
• Ophthalmologist-tested: not disclosed

Best Drugstore: CeraVe Eye Repair Cream

CeraVe

Eye Repair Cream

$20 $14 (30% off)

Amazon

$20

Ulta Beauty

Why it's worth it: We appreciate it when a product name gets straight to the point, and CeraVe Eye Repair Cream does exactly what it promises. “This is a great option for those with dry and sensitive skin around the eyes, given the formulation includes barrier-supportive ingredients like ceramides and hyaluronic acid. I love the texture of this product; it’s very moisturizing but doesn’t feel too heavy. It provides a noticeable smoothing effect that works well under makeup. I also like this for a night treatment,” says Dr. Chan. It rivals pricier formulas for a fraction of the cost, making it the ultimate drugstore eye cream for restoring the undereye area while keeping it soft and resilient.

More to know

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• Key ingredients: ceramides, hyaluronic acid, niacinamide
• Fragrance-free: yes
• Ophthalmologist-tested: not disclosed

Frequently Asked Questions

What does an eye cream do that a facial moisturizer can't?

The main difference between an eye cream and a regular facial moisturizer comes down to the formulation. “The skin around the eyes is thinner, has fewer oil glands, and tends to be more sensitive,” says Dr. Chan. Because of that, eye creams are made with a lighter texture and gentler ingredients that are less likely to cause stinging or irritation—even if they migrate a bit into the eyes. Many are also ophthalmologist-tested to ensure they’re safe for use near such a delicate area. In short, while your moisturizer hydrates the rest of your face, an eye cream is carefully designed to nourish, protect, and smooth the skin where it matters most.

Can hydrating eye creams reduce fine lines or dark circles, or do they just moisturize?

“Eye creams often include specific active ingredients that can help with the common undereye complaints, in addition to moisturizing. Products with retinols and certain peptides can help improve skin texture, fine lines, and other skin changes associated with photodamage,” says Dr. Chan. These formulas are usually made with lower concentrations, so they’re gentle enough for the delicate eye area. Meanwhile, ingredients like hyaluronic acid, glycerin, and ceramides boost hydration and strengthen the skin barrier, while occlusives such as dimethicone lock in that moisture. So, a good eye cream does more than just plump the skin—it can also help soften fine lines, refine texture, and gradually brighten the undereye area.

What eye cream should I use if I have sensitive eyes?

If you have sensitive eyes, “it’s best to be cautious with products that contain strong actives, like retinoids, or potential irritants, such as fragrance. Because the skin around the eyes is more sensitive than elsewhere on the face, those ingredients can sometimes cause stinging or redness,” says Dr. Chan. When in doubt, patch-test any new eye cream on a small area for several days first to make sure your skin can handle it before applying it more widely.

Meet the experts

• Morayo Adisa, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in Chicago
• Aegean H. Chan, a double board-certified dermatologist and medical director of California Dermatology Group based in Santa Barbara, CA
• Lauren Penzi, 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 hydrating eye creams, 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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The year is 2007 and one song rules them all: Rihanna's infectious, unforgettable “Umbrella.” It's everywhere, and so is the Good Girl Gone Bad singer's cropped, angled hair cut, often styled with a brow-obscuring side bang. It became one of the most popular and imitated hairstyles of the mid- to late-2000s thanks to Rihanna's influence, and now that major side bang is back on the red carpet—and back on Rihanna—again!

The Fenty Beauty founder stepped out to support her partner, A$AP Rocky, at the CFDA Fashion Awards in New York City—her first major appearance since the birth of her third child, daughter Rocki Irish Mayers, in September. (Rocky won the Style Icon Award at the ceremony.) Her go-to hairstylist Yusef parted her hair very deeply to the side and pulled the lengths back, leaving a large portion loose in the front to cover half of her face, side bang-style.

This isn't some brow-brushing, subtle side bang, either. No, this is the side bang to rule all side bangs, completely blocking one eye and cascading down Rihanna's face to end right at her chin, adding an element of mystery and edge to her red carpet outfit. The side-parted side-bang hairstyle has that “Umbrella”-esque 2007 vibe, but updated for 2025 with Rihanna's eternal cool factor always playing the starring role.

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The finished look, paired with a spring/summer 2026 Alaïa turtleneck, coat, and white trousers, was elevated but easy, cool but comfy; the star herself described it to People as a “postpartum-forward look." She finished off her glam with a subtly smoky eye, lined lip, and soft milky manicure.

This isn't the first time Rihanna has refreshed a throwback hairstyle; in August, while pregnant with baby Rocki, she had fun with the beloved, Y2K-era zig-zag part, incorporating it into her braids. And while it's been nearly 20 years since “Umbrella” hit the airwaves (OMG), there's really no time like the present to give it a spin again—preferably with a side bang of your own.

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Millie Bobby Brown is over the constant conversation and criticism around her hair and makeup choices.

In early 2025, headlines blared that the Stranger Things star looked “old” and had possibly had plastic surgery, and the 21-year-old actor responded to all the conversation by calling the publications and writers out by name. “I started in this industry when I was 10 years old," she wrote on Instagram at the time. "I grew up in front of the world, and for some reason, people can’t seem to grow with me,” she said her post. “Instead, they act like … I should still look the way I did on Stranger Things season one. And because I don’t, I’m now a target.”

Now, Brown is revisiting that conversation in a new interview with British Vogue. The star knows that being perceived is part of the job, but bristles at some of the coverage given to a young woman who is having fun with beauty and figuring out who she is. "I understand that there’s paparazzi, even though it’s invasive, even though it feels like sh*t to me–I know that’s your job,” she shared. "But don’t, in your headline, slam me at the get-go. It is so wrong and it is bullying, especially to young girls who are new to this industry and are already questioning everything about it.”

According to Brown, the headlines regarding her ‘90s-inspired blonde hair and glam from the The Electric State press tour really hurt her feelings. “I was depressed for three, four days. I was crying every day,” she told British Vogue, adding that she was crying in the glam chair before presenting an award to Sabrina Carpenter at the Brit Awards. (Carpenter gave her a hug and told her to “F**k ’em!")

But today, she's feeling much more confident in her beauty experimentation and isn't afraid to call people out. “If me being blonde or wearing more make-up really bothers you, I’m going to address it—not just for myself, but for every other girl who wants to try a new hairstyle or wear a red lip,” Brown shared. “It’s, like, get off my f***ing case, you know? I am 21. I am going to have fun and play and be myself.”

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I’ve never had a pimple in my life. I’m bragging, I know.

But it’s an important detail, along with the fact that I’ve been a beauty journalist for nearly seven years—which means I know my skin, and I know when something is off. So when a spot arrived in the very center of my forehead in August 2023, I figured it was about time I got my first zit.

Only, this “zit” didn’t go away. It scabbed over, scarred, and expanded from a tiny dot to a quarter-sized discolored blotch on my forehead where a unicorn horn would be over the course of a few months. Then, around six weeks later, came a second spot. I ran through every possible explanation: a reaction to skin care, a chemical burn from a pimple patch, maybe even a curse from a past life. My most Googled phrase that year was “ingredients for fading scars,” and no amount of niacinamide or tranexamic, kojic, or azelaic acid made a difference.

The writer in December 2023, about four months since the “zit” initially appeared.

Courtesy of subject

Eventually, I booked a dermatologist appointment. The doctor thought it could be psoriasis; I was sticking with my chemical burn theory. A biopsy came back: seborrheic dermatitis. Spoiler alert—it wasn’t. Turns out, the procedure didn’t paint the entire picture because it was a shave biopsy and didn’t get to the full root of the issue, just scraping the surface. So when I applied the prescribed steroid faithfully, nothing changed. The lesions had signed a lease in perpetuity and neither triamcinolone acetonide nor betamethasone dipropionate could evict them.

With my self-esteem unraveling, I booked another appointment—this time at a different practice. Claudia Slutzky, a certified physician assistant at True Dermatology in New York City, took one look and told me that it wasn’t dermatitis. The clues? “This patch was so well demarcated right in the center of [your] forehead, and nothing seemed to help,” she’d told me.

When two more spots appeared on my chest two months later, following the same bump–scab–scar pattern, Slutzky raised the possibility I least expected: lupus. Dr. House always said it’s never lupus, so how could it be lupus? No one in my family had it, and in my head lupus was a “disease,” not something that could show up on my face. Shocked, I asked her: “Do you know what it means to say the word ‘lupus’ to a Black woman?” She did, and she was just as upset as I was. Black women are disproportionately affected by lupus, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). In fact, says the organization, Black, American Indian, and Alaskan Native women are two to three times more likely than white women to develop lupus, and tend to have more severe cases when they do. The CDC also states that on average, Black people with lupus die at younger ages—by more than a decade—than white people with lupus. All that in mind, the word “lupus” carries a deep cultural trauma for a lot of Black women, and I was—and am—one of them.

After consulting with her supervising physician, Amy Spizuoco, a board-certified dermatologist at the same practice, they performed a punch biopsy, which goes deeper than the surface-level one I’d had a year prior. When the results came back around a week later, we had an answer: discoid lupus erythematosus, a chronic autoimmune condition that causes rashes on the skin and face. What I thought was a simple blemish was actually a diagnosis that would change my life—and my identity.

What is Discoid Lupus Erythematosus?

Discoid lupus erythematosus (DLE) is a chronic autoimmune condition that affects the skin, often in sun-exposed areas like the face, scalp, and ears. It can look very different depending on your skin tone. “In darker skin tones discoid lupus may appear as pink, gray, or purple lesions,” says Patricia Oyetakin, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in Atlanta. “In lighter skin tones it is more pink or red.” Over time, lesions may lead to scarring, pigment changes, or even hair loss, though these features usually emerge later—one reason early diagnosis is so challenging.

Some key red flags: pigment changes that don’t resolve, scarring or thickening of the skin following a lesion, hair loss on the scalp as a result of lesions, and lesions clustered in areas like the face, scalp, and ears that are often exposed to the sun. Early discoid lupus (DLE) can mimic acne because both may appear as red or inflamed bumps. The key differences are persistence and after-effects. “Unlike acne, DLE lesions often develop scaling, follicular plugging, and occur in sun-exposed areas,” says dermatologist Pooja Rambhia, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in New York City. “They don’t resolve within a typical acne cycle and instead can linger for weeks to months. DLE lesions are also more likely to leave behind scarring or pigment changes, while acne usually heals without such pronounced, long-lasting marks.”

Lupus comes in many forms. Selena Gomez, for example, has lupus nephritis, which is an inflammation of the kidneys caused by systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). SLE is also an autoimmune disease, but it can affect the entire body, including the heart, lungs, kidneys, and joints. The main difference between my form of lupus and other variations of the disease is that discoid lupus is cutaneous, or limited to the skin. “Only five percent of individuals with discoid lupus will go on to develop SLE,” explains Meggan Mackay, MD, a board-certified rheumatologist based in New York City. “But individuals with discoid lupus should be aware of symptoms such as joint pain, hair loss, and overwhelming fatigue, as this could indicate SLE.”

DLE is the most common form of chronic cutaneous lupus, but it’s still relatively rare. It most often affects women between the ages of 20 and 50, and people with skin of color face both a higher risk and more severe side effects from the disease, including scarring alopecia, a form of permanent hair loss caused by inflammation that destroys hair follicles. In DLE, scalp lesions can damage the follicle beyond repair, leading to irreversible bald patches that cannot regrow hair even after the disease is controlled.

Why Discoid Lupus Is Often Misdiagnosed

I was fully prepared to accept my first dermatologist’s diagnosis of seborrheic dermatitis. They’re the experts, right? My story isn’t unusual, especially as a Black woman. We’ve all heard the myths: “Black people don’t need sunscreen” or “melanoma is less likely to develop in darker skin.” Those ideas fuel a pattern where our skin concerns are often minimized.

Plus, conditions can present differently on different skin tones, and there has historically been less education that focuses on dark skin for dermatologists. The American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) has put vast efforts into diversifying their training materials and unlearning medical bias, most recently working in collaboration with the Skin of Color Society to assure that images used in dermatologic education demonstrated how conditions present in all skin tones, called the Clinical Image Collection. “By incorporating a diversity of images into professional dermatology education material, we can empower dermatologists and other clinicians to improve their diagnostic skills and enhance patient care for all,” a representative for AAD told me. “The ultimate goal is for the AAD Clinical Image Collection to become the largest, most-trusted and comprehensive source for skin disease images.”

In skin of color, discoid lupus can be especially deceptive. DLE often presents with pigment changes that look like post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation. On deeper skin tones, redness—a classic sign in lighter skin—is far less visible. “DLE can be misidentified, especially early on, because the lesions can mimic common conditions like acne, eczema, or seborrheic dermatitis,” Dr. Rambhia explains. “Even with biopsy, subtle findings or sampling error can sometimes delay the correct diagnosis."

“Black patients experience more frequent and severe disease damage, including prominent ear and scalp dyspigmentation and scarring alopecia, as compared to non-Black patients,” she continues. “The visual impact of pigmentary changes is often more significant in patients with darker skin tones, emphasizing the importance of early recognition and treatment to prevent permanent scarring and disfigurement.”

How DLE Affects More Than Skin

The hardest part wasn’t just the lesions—it was watching my face change in slow motion, feeling myself disappear. I was truly handling an ego death on top of a chronic illness. To you, this may be vanity; for me, it was my entire identity. It got so bad that the scars—which, by April 2024, had multiplied to two spots smack-dab in the middle of my forehead—were the only thing I could see when I looked in the mirror. I would cry when I saw myself without makeup—my self-esteem, which I had considered to be unshakeable after a lifetime of building it up, was destroyed. Not just because of the spots on my face, but because I felt so vain for even allowing my self-worth to be harmed so easily. I felt like the only thing anyone could see were the spots.

The writer seen here in March 2024, by which time she says the scars had darkened.

Courtesy of subject

Psychologist Sari Chait, PhD, was not surprised to hear about these emotions. “When someone develops visible changes over time, like scarring or lesions, it can be difficult to incorporate your new visual appearance into the picture you already have of yourself. That discrepancy alone can cause distress and can lead to one feeling significant loss,” she says. “In many ways, that sense of loss of what one used to look like is a form of grief.” I have been known to have a “boy who cried wolf” view of the world, feeling that my cries for help have always been diminished by my overdramatic nature. But I had to advocate for myself—I couldn’t let two spots on my forehead get in the way of my life.

And as a Black woman, the pressure was doubled. My hair could be undone—I’d just throw on a wig and keep moving. But my skin? That was supposed to be untouchable. “Image is very important in Black communities; [there’s an unspoken rule of] ‘don’t look like what you’re going through,’” says therapist Vatara Scott, a licensed clinical social worker in North Carolina. “When that image is not on par with our own or others’ expectations, it can feel shaming or disparaging. Rather than it being a reflection of a chronic condition… it can easily be regarded as a lack of care or upkeep.”

That stigma only deepened my spiral. DLE wasn’t just changing my skin—it was rewriting how I saw myself.

How to Treat DLE

Once I had a name for what was happening to my skin, the next big question was: What now? Discoid lupus erythematosus doesn’t have a cure, but it can be managed—and the earlier treatment begins, the better the chance of preventing scarring and pigment changes. Dr. Rambhia explains that managing DLE usually focuses on reducing inflammation, preventing flare-ups, and minimizing permanent damage like scarring.

“Medical treatment includes a combination of topical anti-inflammatory medications and oral treatments,” explains Dr. Oyetakin. “I explain to my patients that topical steroids can be safely used as a ‘fire extinguisher’ to quickly calm down intense itching and burning. Topical non-steroid medications can then be used as long-term maintenance. In severe cases, oral immunosuppressant medications are effective and should be closely managed.” When I first received my lupus diagnosis, Slutzky and Dr. Spizuoco prescribed me a stronger triamcinolone cream, just to see if a higher dose of steroids might do the trick. When it didn't, they moved me to a regimen of Opzelura cream—a JAK inhibitor (a newer class of oral or topical medications that block key inflammatory pathways in the immune system) used to treat mild to moderate eczema and nonsegmental vitiligo—along with ammonium lactate lotion to treat the dry scaly skin, and Tazorac—the brand name for the prescription topical retinoid tazarotene—to assist with the inflammation.

Lifestyle strategies are just as important: “Stress is our number one nemesis in our day-to-day lives,” Dr. Oyetakin adds. “It not only affects mental health, it also causes flare-ups in inflammatory skin conditions. I discuss stress management strategies with my patients as an important part of our management plan.” With all forms of lupus, sun protection is crucial. Dr. Oyetakin says that broad-spectrum sunscreen, sun-protective clothing, and even oral antioxidant supplements like polypodium leucotomos, a tropical fern native to Central and South America which has been shown to have benefits in photosensitive conditions like lupus, are all essential tools. If sunscreen was a passion for me before, now it’s a matter of survival.

For many patients, systemic medications like the ones I’m on are necessary. “The current treatments of choice include oral hydroxychloroquine, topical corticosteroids, other strong anti-inflammatory medications, and local corticosteroid injections,” says Dr. Mackay. But new options are on the horizon: “Research into the molecular mechanisms for discoid lupus and SLE has resulted in the development of new drugs called biologic therapies that target specific pathways causing disease and may be more effective than the traditional treatments.”

Victoria Werth, MD, a board-certified dermatologist and medical advisor to the Lupus Research Alliance, is also hopeful. “Several phase one, two, and three trials are studying drugs that seem to work more quickly and more often than current treatments. While CLE is more common and more severe in people with skin of color, we know these populations are less likely to join trials. It is essential to increase participation to correctly assess if the therapies are working for everyone.”

How to Advocate for Yourself

I cannot overstate how much I recognize that getting to the point of a diagnosis is a privilege. Lack of access to proper medical care is an issue across the board, and I am lucky enough to know that I work in a field that not only puts me in front of some of dermatology’s best minds, but also allows me to (somewhat) afford the expensive creams and medications I need to keep my DLE at bay. There is not a single complaint in my world when it comes to that, and staying grateful and hopeful is the only thing that kept me going through the last few years.

By the time I finally got my diagnosis, I realized the only reason I made it there was because I kept pushing. That meant trusting my gut when prescriptions didn’t work, when the biopsy didn’t explain what I saw in the mirror, and when my mental health was unraveling. This problem literally lived on my face—I couldn’t ignore it.

“If your condition is not responding to the current treatment plan, always talk to your provider,” says Slutzky. “There can be multiple ways to treat a condition, and every patient can respond differently.”

Dr. Spizuoco notes that even dermatologists face tough calls: “The gold standard of diagnosis of autoimmune conditions of the skin is a biopsy. Many times these lesions are on the face, and it’s very difficult… because we know a biopsy will leave a scar. And that’s what we are trying to avoid.” I’m convinced that’s why my first biopsy missed the mark. For purely cosmetic purposes, we didn’t want to punch a hole in the middle of my forehead during the initial biopsy and risk an even worse scar developing in its place. Unfortunately, that meant the shave didn’t go deep enough to get to the actual root of the issue. In the end, trusting my instincts—and saying yes to a deeper biopsy for the lesions on my chest—changed everything.

Self-advocacy also means being prepared for how my lupus might change in the future. “It is extremely helpful for patients to keep track of the appearance of the rash—if it has improved, stayed the same, or worsened—and whether any new lesions have developed,” says Dr. Mackay. “If you have other concerns like new joint pain or hair loss, be prepared to discuss these. Even if the provider does not have an answer, at least the symptom will be considered and addressed.”

And beyond the exam room, advocacy can be collective. “If we are to improve therapies for CLE we will need to facilitate and complete these trials,” says Dr. Werth. Patients showing up in research data ensures that future treatments actually work for the people most affected.

For me, advocating meant refusing to accept “just dermatitis” as the final word. For you, it might mean asking for a second opinion, keeping a symptom diary, or finding a support group. Whatever the path, it starts with believing yourself when your body—or your skin—tells you something’s wrong.

When I first walked into True Dermatology in January, I was genuinely afraid that I was, well, a monster. Working with Slutzky did more than that. When I told her I was writing this story, I said I wanted it to be about us—because we did this together. Throughout the experience, she often told me that the emotional side of this diagnosis is just as important as the objective medical side. Our nine months of appointments weren’t just about creams or biopsies; they were about building trust. That comfort she gave me is what allowed us to get to the best place I’ve been so far. Dr Spizuoco, who guided us through the hard calls, reminded me that chronic conditions like this take teamwork. “Chronic skin conditions require a partnership between the patient and the dermatologist,” she explained. And that’s exactly what I had: a team that was willing to listen when I said, “This isn’t getting better,” and to believe me when I cried in their office because it felt like I was losing my face.

Now, my spots are slowly and gradually fading thanks to topical meds, and I’m working with a rheumatologist on the oral treatments I need to keep my DLE in check. What I thought was a bump on my face turned out to be a hurdle in my life, but it’s one I’m learning to live with. I’m being gentler with myself, reminding myself that my skin doesn’t define my worth—and yes, I am obsessively wearing sunscreen.

Because in the end, this isn’t just about a diagnosis. My mother wanted me to love my Black skin more than anything else, and I do. It’s also about what can happen when you refuse to stop asking questions, when your providers trust you enough to dig deeper, and when you let yourself believe that your skin—even scarred, even imperfect—is still worth loving.

Collage: Paula Balondo; Source images: Courtesy of Allure editors and brands

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Much like a little black dress or sleek low bun, a swipe of the best red lipstick is a timeless look. In our humble opinion, a vibrant cherry or bold crimson lip is equally well-suited for weddings and late-night dancing, as it is for workdays and weekend brunches with the girls. (TikTok has even coined the “Red Lip Theory” that claims a swipe of red lipstick can brighten up your entire face.) And now more than ever, there are infinite shades, finishes, and undertones so you can find your perfect match.

Allure editors have swatched and applied too many red lipsticks to count—which is to say, we’ve found quite a few enduring favorites along the way. Ahead, we share everything from drugstore must-haves to high-end shades that fit any occasion, any time of year.

Our Editors’ Favorite Red Lipsticks

• Jessica Cruel, editor in chief: Anastasia Beverly Hills Liquid Lipstick in American Doll, $23
• Sarah Felbin, senior commerce editor: Trinny London Just Joyous Lipstick in Poppy, $34
• Ingrid Fowler, senior art director: Nars Powermatte Lip Pencil in Dragon Girl, $32
• Nicola Dall’Asen, senior news editor: Violette_FR Plume Lip in En Feu, $31
• Kara McGrath, former content director: Tom Ford Slim Lip Color Shine in Scarlet Rouge, $45
• Sarah Han, commerce editor: Maed Signature Lip Pigment in Ritual Red, $36
• Sarah Kinonen, associate beauty director: Poundcake Cake Batter Liquid Lipstick in Red Velvet, $24
• Angela Trakoshis, former shopping market editor: Dior Rouge Dior Forever Transfer-Proof Lipstick in Forever Dior, $48
• Lexi Herrick, senior director of audience development: Stila Stay All Day Liquid Lipstick in Beso, $24

Frequently Asked QuestionsAccordionItemContainerButtonLargeChevron

• How do I choose the best red lipstick for my skin tone?
• How do you make red lipstick last?
• Meet the experts
• How we test and review products
• Our staff and testers

Jessica Cruel, editor in chief: Anastasia Beverly Hills Liquid Lipstick in American Doll

Anastasia Beverly Hills

Liquid Lipstick in American Doll

$23

Amazon

$23

Nordstrom

$23

Ulta Beauty

Allure editor in chief Jessica Cruel after applying brown lip liner and Anastasia Beverly Hills Liquid Lipstick in American Doll.

Jessica Cruel

Why we love it: With 10 shades of Anastasia Beverly Hills Liquid Lipstick to choose from, finding your new go-to is practically guaranteed—but the bold red American Doll is a clear editor favorite. The formula’s staying power is seriously impressive, holding up flawlessly from morning to night, and the paddle-shaped applicator makes lining and filling in color a one-swipe job. The finish is soft and powdery, but never so matte that it veers into dry, cracked, or cakey territory.

Tester feedback from Cruel

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“I've been using this same blue-red lip shade from Anastasia Beverly Hills for years. The liquid formula dries down fast and lasts through every passed hors d'oeuvre at the numerous beauty events I attend (even sliders!).” —Jessica Cruel, editor in chief

More to know

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• Finish: matte
• Available red shades: 2 (American Doll and Sarafine)

Sarah Felbin, senior commerce editor: Trinny London Just Joyous Lipstick in Poppy

Trinny London

Just Joyous Lipstick in Poppy

$34

Trinny London

Allure senior commerce editor Sarah Felbin applying the Trinny London Just Joyous Lipstick.

Sarah Felbin

Why it’s worth it: In all of our years of testing lipsticks, we’ve found that most formulas don’t usually offer a glossy sheen and intense moisture, but that’s not the case with Trinny London’s Just Joyous Lipstick. Not only does it provide high color payoff with buildable coverage, but it’s also hydrating and plumping, thanks to hyaluronic acid, moringa and maracuja oils, and palmitoyl tripeptide-1. Outside of the two red shades (one leans pink and the other leans orange), we also love the neutral color options, like Martha, a rosy nude, and Mitra, a nude brown that’s perfect for fall.

Felbin before applying the Trinny London Just Joyous Lipstick in Poppy.

Sarah Felbin

Felbin after applying the Trinny London Just Joyous Lipstick in Poppy.

Sarah Felbin

Tester feedback from Felbin

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“I wear a red lip often, and lately this one from Trinny London has become my go-to. Unlike other reds I've tried, this one feels soft and lightweight, almost like a lip balm. As it wears, it doesn't get sticky, feather, or cling to dry patches—my lipstick pet peeve. I usually pair it with a red lip liner, but I love that I don't have to. (I'm wearing it alone above.) Poppy is an orange-red shade that's slightly sheer and can be built up or reapplied easily. For a more blue-red, try Paris.”—Sarah Felbin, senior commerce editor

More to know

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• Finish: glossy
• Available red shades: 2 (Poppy and Paris)

Ingrid Fowler, senior art director: Nars Powermatte Lip Pencil in Dragon Girl

Nars

Powermatte Lip Pencil in Dragon Girl

$32

Ulta Beauty

Allure senior art director Ingrid Fowler applying the Nars Powermatte Lip Pencil in Dragon Girl.

Ingrid Fowler

Why it’s worth it: A modern twist on the brand’s beloved Velvet Matte Lip Pencils, the Nars Powermatte High-Intensity Lip Pencil (a Best of Beauty Award winner) packs bold pigment into a creamy, long-wearing formula that sets to a soft matte finish and lasts up to 12 hours. The chunky crayon makes it easy to swipe on full color in seconds, yet it's precise enough to double as a liner, making it the ultimate multitasker to stash in your bag. And true to Nars' form, the shade names are just as memorable as the formula—think American Woman, Born to Be Wild, and Dragon Girl.

Fowler before applying the Nars Powermatte Lip Pencil in Dragon Girl.

Ingrid Fowler

Fowler after applying the Nars Powermatte Lip Pencil in Dragon Girl.

Ingrid Fowler

Tester feedback from Fowler

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“Nars was not kidding when they included ‘high-intensity’ in the name of this product. This pencil packs the punch of highly pigmented lip color. The formula is extremely creamy, going on easily with one swipe, but doesn’t budge or bleed out of place. The rounded pencil tip is my preferred product design since it makes it easy to apply with precision. I’m wearing the shade Dragon Girl, a bright red that complements my cool complexion.”—Ingrid Fowler, senior art director

More to know

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• Finish: matte
• Available red shades: 7

Nicola Dall’Asen, senior news editor: Violette_FR Plume Lip in En Feu

Violette_FR

Plume Lip in En Feu

$31

Sephora

$31

Violette_FR

Allure senior news editor Nicola Dall’Asen applying the Violette_FR Plume Lip in En Feu.

Nicola Dall'Asen

Why it’s worth it: If bold, long-wearing lipsticks feel too intimidating, there’s a new kid on the block. Meet Violette_FR’s Plume Lipstick, an airy, whipped formula that feels more like a silky stain than a traditional liquid lipstick, blending seamlessly to soften edges and blur lines. It glides on so smoothly, you can practically apply it without a mirror (yup, even in the Fiery Red shade). Once it sets, the color stays put for up to 12 hours while still feeling featherlight, thanks to emollients that keep your lips comfortable and kissable all day.

Dall’Asen before applying the Violette_FR Plume Lip in En Feu.

Nicola Dall'Asen

Dall’Asen after applying the Violette_FR Plume Lip in En Feu.

Nicola Dall'Asen

Tester feedback from Dall’Asen

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“Personally, I've never been a fan of the blurred lip look, but that's mostly on me. I usually overdo the blending part and wind up looking less like Katie Jane Hughes and more like a clown who just went to town on a Big Mac. But Violette's Plume Lip has made it so astonishingly easy that I'm becoming a convert. This isn't your standard liquid lipstick formula. It's matte, yes, but it's kind of slippery and very creamy because it's designed to move around a bit, an intentional design trait that lends itself to that velvety finish and soft edge necessary for pulling off a blurred lip. The pigments are a little sheer and totally buildable, so I like to build up the color to be really bold in the center of my lip before spreading that color further out toward the edges. It does require some setting to prevent smudging, but it's nothing a little paper-towel blot can't manage. No more of that Ronald McDonald look for me, thanks.” —Nicola Dall’Asen, senior news editor

More to know

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• Finish: matte, blurred
• Available red shades: 2 (En Feu and Mon Chéri)

Kara McGrath, former content director: Tom Ford Slim Lip Color Shine in Scarlet Rouge

Tom Ford

Slim Lip Color Shine in Scarlet Rouge

$45

Nordstrom

$45

Bluemercury

Allure former content director Kara McGrath applying the Tom Ford Slim Lip Color Shine.

Kara McGrath

Why it’s worth it: What makes a slim lipstick so great? The thinner tip makes it easy to trace the corners of your mouth and define your Cupid’s bow—no liner or brush needed. That’s exactly why Tom Ford’s Slim Lip Color Shine is a permanent fixture in our makeup bags. Sure, it’s not the longest-wearing formula out there (that glossy finish comes with trade-offs), but it earns its spot as both a luxe lip balm and gloss in one. Packed with hydrating waxes and emollients like beeswax and avocado extract, it glides on like butter and somehow still delivers rich, even color. It’s a splurge, but the kind you’ll reach for so often, it basically pays for itself.

McGrath before applying the Tom Ford Slim Lip Color Shine in Scarlet Rouge.

Kara McGrath

McGrath after applying the Tom Ford Slim Lip Color Shine in Scarlet Rouge.

Kara McGrath

Tester feedback from McGrath

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“Applying this lipstick is nothing short of glorious. The formula is so pigmented and so silky that it goes on perfectly evenly in a single swipe. Since the bullet is quite thin, you can easily sneak into the corners of your mouth and define your Cupid's bow without using a lipstick brush. Scarlet Rouge is my perfect red; it leans slightly warm (which is ideal for me, a spring) but isn't so orange-y that it makes my teeth look yellow. Since it has a glossy finish, it's not the longest-lasting lipstick out there but, again, since it's so nice to put on, I don't mind reapplying.” —Kara McGrath, former content director

More to know

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• Finish: glossy
• Available red shades: 3 (Scarlet Rouge, Rose Corset, and Nubile)

Sarah Han, commerce editor: Maed Signature Lip Pigment in Ritual Red

Maed

Signature Lip Pigment in Ritual Red

$36

Sephora

Why it’s worth it: If you can’t stand a chalky lip that settles into every line and somehow makes your lips look even drier, meet your match. Maed’s Signature Lip Pigment delivers the lasting power of a matte without the dreaded dryness or weight. The flexible formula moves with your lips, feels practically undetectable, and is packed with hydrators that keep them soft and smooth all day. The star ingredients do the heavy lifting: maca root adds dimension and a subtle glow (no flat, matte finish here), tucuma butter—a natural silicone alternative—locks in moisture and smooths texture, jojoba esters lend that buttery glide, and cherry coffee seed oil helps firm and support elasticity. Basically, it’s a long-wearing lip that feels like a gloss but performs like a liquid lipstick.

Allure commerce editor Sarah Han applying the Maed Signature Lip Pigment.

Sarah Han

Han after applying the Maed Signature Lip Pigment.

Sarah Han

Tester feedback from Han

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"As I've gotten older, my tolerance for drying liquid lipsticks has gone down to…zero. (Heck, back in the day when I wore liquid lipsticks every day, I probably was already thinking, Why am I putting myself through this torture?) And while no liquid lipstick will ever wear as comfortably as my beloved lip tints, Maed’s Signature Lip Pigment comes pretty darn close. The secret? Cherry coffee seed oil, tucuma butter, and jojoba esters for a gosh-darn smooth glide and subtle sheen (that dries totally matte in a few minutes). And I've never seen an applicator like this one: It has a long, tapered-in end that hugs my lips perfectly, depositing a ridiculously even layer of pigment." —Sarah Han, commerce editor

More to know

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• Finish: matte
• Available red shades: 1 (Ritual Red)

Sarah Kinonen, associate beauty director: Poundcake Cake Batter Liquid Lipstick in Red Velvet

Poundcake

Cake Batter Liquid Lipstick in Red Velvet

$24

Amazon

$24

Ulta Beauty

$24

Credo Beauty

Allure associate beauty director Sarah Kinonen after applying Poundcake Cake Batter Liquid Lipstick in Red Velvet.

Sarah Kinonen

Why it’s worth it: Just about every Allure editor has the Poundcake Cake Batter Liquid Lipstick in their makeup bag. This two-time Best of Beauty Award winner is a staff favorite for its rich pigment, staying power, and impressive conditioning properties (thanks to avocado oil and vitamin E). If lip liner feels like a chore, its easy-to-maneuver doe-foot applicator makes crisp, precise lines, so it acts as a two-in-one. It’s also super buildable—dab it on with your finger for a soft, just-bitten tint, or swipe it straight on for a bold, full-coverage lip that looks effortlessly polished.

Tester feedback from Kinonen

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"When I'm in the mood for a liquid lipstick, I reach for the Best of Beauty Award-winning Poundcake Cake Batter Liquid Lipstick in Red Velvet. It's a super-pigmented, suede-like formula that goes on opaque but dries down into a comfortable, long-wearing matte. Every time I've worn this bold shade I've gotten hit with compliments. It's just so good!"—Sarah Kinonen, associate beauty director

More to know

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• Finish: matte
• Available red shades: 6

Angela Trakoshis, former shopping market editor: Dior Rouge Dior Forever Transfer-Proof Lipstick in 999 Forever Dior

Dior

Rouge Dior Forever Transfer-Proof Lipstick in 999 Forever Dior

$48

Nordstrom

$48

Ulta Beauty

Allure former shopping market editor Angela Trakoshis after applying the Dior Rouge Dior Forever Transfer-Proof Lipstick.

Angela Trakoshis

Why it’s worth it: Dior’s Rouge Dior Forever is the luxury brand's first-ever transfer-proof lipstick, which is reason enough to scoop it up. Think intense pigment and all-day comfort that lasts up to 16 hours, which is why Allure editors wax poetic about it. Los Angeles-based makeup artist Robin Black is another fan, attesting that this pigmented formula is totally smudge-proof, an impressive feat, especially for a vibrant red like this one.

Tester feedback from Trakoshis

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"I waited a full three minutes after applying shade 999 Forever Dior to test the transfer-proof formula. Once the timer buzzed, I tried pressing my lips against my hand, and there wasn't any residue in sight—not on my hand, my water glass, nowhere.”—Angela Trakoshis, former shopping market editor

More to know

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• Finish: matte
• Available red shades: 9

Lexi Herrick, former director of audience development: Stila Stay All Day Liquid Lipstick in Beso

Stila

Stay All Day Liquid Lipstick in Beso

$24

Amazon

$24

Nordstrom

$24

Ulta Beauty

Allure former director of audience development Lexi Herrick after applying the Stila Stay All Day Liquid Lipstick Matte in Beso.

Lexi Herrick

Why it’s worth it: The Stila Stay All Day Liquid Lipstick Matte in Beso is another Allure Best of Beauty Award Hall of Famer that offers bold, stop-you-in-your-tracks pigment. Its bright candy-red shade, matte finish, and creamy formula are so good that one swatch is enough to make you a die-hard fan of this long-lasting lipstick. While most liquid lipsticks need an added layer for vibrancy, one coat of Stay All Day is all you need for an opaque finish.

Tester feedback from former director of audience development Lexi Herrick

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"The Stila Stay All Day Lip Stain in the Beso shade is the red lipstick that made me fall in love with red lipstick. I cannot possibly exaggerate how long-lasting this lipstick is—it feels scientifically impossible. I have worn this lipstick from dawn to midnight without it fading. It's virtually transfer-proof and has a smooth, forgiving application. It's extremely vibrant and mattifying, and a staple in my makeup routine."—Lexi Herrick, former director of audience development

More to know

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• Finish: matte
• Available red shades: 3 (Beso, Bordeaux, Deep Wine)

More red lipsticks we love

Best Lip Definer: Pat McGrath Labs Dramatique Mega Lip Pencil in Elson

Pat McGrath Labs

Dramatique Mega Lip Pencil in Elson

$29

Nordstrom

$29

Ulta Beauty

Why it’s worth it: If you’ve ever seen Pat McGrath apply lipstick in person, you know it’s pure magic. In just seconds, she creates a stunning, high-impact lip that looks practically airbrushed. Now, with the 2025 Best of Beauty-winning Pat McGrath Labs Dramatique Mega Lip Pencil, we get to channel that same artistry. The creamy formula glides on smoothly, the tapered tip makes defining effortless, and the shade range delivers on its name (dramatique, quite literally). You’ll have a few minutes to blend and perfect your look before it sets, and once it does, expect serious staying power (as in, you’ll need a washcloth and remover to take it off).

Tester feedback from Fowler

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“I love these lip pencils, which are more crayon than pencil, by my definition. The tip is large and round enough to easily fill in lips, but pointed enough to be precise around the edges. The texture is super creamy and weightless—a perfect formula for everyday wear.” —Ingrid Fowler, senior art director

More to know

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• Finish: matte
• Available red shades: 2

Best Drugstore: Essence The Slim Stick in Nice Spice

Essence

The Slim Stick in Nice Spice

$5

Amazon

$5

Ulta Beauty

Why we love it: A single swipe of Essence’s The Slim Stick delivers rich, velvety color that rivals high-end formulas, at a fraction of the price. A 2025 Best of Beauty Award winner for Best Matte Lipstick (no small feat), this ultra-slim bullet is loaded with pigment for full coverage in one go, while a blend of jojoba, coconut, and macadamia oils keeps it feeling light and comfortable. Despite its airy texture, it doesn’t budge easily—our testers were impressed by how long it lasts. It’s a drugstore gem that truly over-delivers for the investment. Case in point: During Best of Beauty testing, our editors reported up to eight hours of wear with zero signs of fading.

Tester feedback from senior copy manager Leslie Lipton

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“For literally pennies—well, 499 of them—this lipstick has a creamy, matte finish with the staying power of others that cost 10 times more. The velvety, saturated color (loving Nice Spice right now) goes on after my morning coffee and lasts through lunch. Plus, the skinny, angled tip makes precise application a breeze—lip liner not required.” —Leslie Lipton, senior copy manager

More to know

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• Finish: matte
• Available red shades: 3

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I choose the best red lipstick for my skin tone?

Anyone can wear whatever red lipstick they like, full stop. "The right red is the one that makes you feel good," says Los Angeles-based makeup artist Fiona Stiles, whose clients include Margot Robbie, Gabrielle Union, and Lily Collins.

However, you can expedite finding a red lipstick you love by considering your skin tone and your skin's undertone. New York City-based makeup artist Diane Kendal previously told Allure that red shades with blue undertones give cool-toned, fair-to-light-medium complexions a more radiant appearance and even make teeth look whiter. For warm, medium skin tones, Kendal suggested orange-red shades—"Intense, yes, but they make olive skin glow by bringing out its golden tones," she says. As for deeper skin tones, she recommended red hues "with a lot of pink," which she said works beautifully against dark complexions.

How do you make red lipstick last?

We all love the look of freshly applied lipstick, but after a few hours (or drinks), things can start to look messy. Don't fret, because there are quite a few ways to make your look last for hours on end. Back in the day (2010 to be exact), New York City-based makeup artist Peter Phillips previously gave Allure editors a few tips on ensuring that any lip look stays put—and these hacks are still used by our staff to this day.

• Prep your lips: Your results will only be as smooth and seamless as the actual skin on your lips. To smooth your skin pre-lipstick, try using a lip scrub or a damp washcloth to buff dry flakes. "Pat on a clear lip balm and give it a few minutes to sink in, then blot with a tissue," said Phillips.
• Use setting powder after applying your lipstick: Makeup artists and Allure editors alike abide by this tip, especially when it comes to smudge-prone shades like red. Phillips recommended dabbing a light amount on the lips to keep your lipstick in place without drying out your skin. "Close your mouth, smile, and then dust a little face powder on your lips with a fluffy brush," he says. “Don't reapply lipstick or it could get cakey.”
• If matte lipsticks are too dry for your lips, use a satin-finish option instead: Since many long-wearing lipsticks are matte and can dry out your lips, Phillips prefers satin-finish, pearlescent lipsticks. "The shine is created by pearl pigments and not by the texture. It's not as moist as a creamy lipstick and will therefore stay on longer," he said.

Meet the experts

• Fiona Stiles is a Los Angeles-based makeup artist.
• Robin Black is a Los Angeles-based makeup artist.
• Diane Kendal is a New York City-based makeup artist.
• Peter Phillips is a New York City-based makeup artist.

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 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 red lipsticks, 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 makeup artists. 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 are folks who have yet to hit 30? Can we honestly deem a high-end diffuser worthy of your hard-earned cash if it’s never been tested on curls? We're proud that our staff spans a wide range of ages, skin tones, hair textures, genders, and backgrounds, which means that we are able to fairly assess any beauty product that comes into the beauty closet.

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

If you’ve finally reached the point where you’re ready to stop guessing and start finding the best face moisturizers for eczema, you’re in the right place. “When you’re dealing with dry, rough patches, you need a moisturizer that does more than just add hydration. It should help repair the skin barrier and still feel comfortable and lightweight enough for everyday wear,” says Sarah Sung, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in Seattle. Because when your barrier is compromised, even a so-called “gentle” cream can sting, burn, or leave skin feeling tight and angry.

To find formulas that do more than just moisturize, look for ceramides that restore barrier function, humectants like glycerin or hyaluronic acid that draw water in, and soothing ingredients (like oatmeal) to calm irritation—all without fragrance, harsh preservatives, or pore-clogging fillers.

Ahead, you’ll find our favorite derm-backed picks that check every box and prove finding comfort and relief is possible.

Our Top Face Moisturizers for Eczema

• Best Overall: Colorescience Barrier Pro Essential Moisturizer, $78
• Best Drugstore: La Roche-Posay Toleriane Double Repair Face Moisturizer, $25
• Best for Barrier Repair: Dr. Althea 147 Barrier Cream, $27
• Best Long-Lasting: Sonsie Multi Moisture Cream, $48
• Best Budget: Vanicream Daily Facial Moisturizer, $14
• Best for Itch Relief: CeraVe Itch Relief Moisturizing Cream, $25

Frequently Asked QuestionsAccordionItemContainerButtonLargeChevron

• What moisturizer is best for facial eczema?
• How do over-the-counter face moisturizers for eczema compare to prescription formulas?
• Meet the experts
• How we test and review products
• Our staff and testers

Best Overall: Colorscience Barrier Pro Essential Moisturizer

Colorscience

Barrier Pro Essential Moisturizer

$78

Amazon

$78

Nordstrom

Why it's worth it: Lightweight, non-greasy hydration is key for eczema-prone skin (since heavy occlusives can trap heat and make skin irritation worse), but, as we previously mentioned, moisture alone often isn’t enough. Colorescience Barrier Pro Essential Moisturizer goes a step further by actively strengthening a weakened skin barrier. “In addition to delivering sheer hydration, it features hyaluronic acid, prickly pear cactus, and squalane, which are known for their hydrating and barrier repair properties,” says Gary Goldenberg, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in New York City. And it’s not just any hyaluronic acid: The formula uses a tri-molecular version that draws water into multiple layers of the skin for deeper, longer-lasting hydration. Microbiome-supporting lactobacillus ferment, combined with calming botanicals like snow mushroom, helps ease redness and flaking, leaving dry skin more comfortable, balanced, and better able to handle everyday stressors (like UV and blue light) that tend to trigger eczema flare-ups.

Allure social director Kassidy Silva applying the Colorscience Barrier Pro Essential Moisturizer

Kassidy Silva

Silva after applying the Colorscience Barrier Pro Essential Moisturizer

Kassidy Silva

Tester feedback from social director Kassidy Silva

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“Ultra light, hydrating and luminating, the Colorescience Barrier Pro cream is my go-to daily moisturizer. Two pumps applied all over my face and neck, it dries down quickly and sits well under makeup. When I’m flaring up, I’ll add an extra pump and add in a few extra spritz of the Colorescience Barrier Pro Serum Spray.” —Kassidy Silva, social director

More to know

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• Key ingredients: tri-molecular hyaluronic acid, prickly pear cactus, squalane, snow mushroom, lactobacillus ferment
• Fragrance-free: yes

Best Drugstore: La Roche-Posay Toleriane Double Repair Face Moisturizer

La Roche-Posay

Toleriane Double Repair Face Moisturizer

$25

Amazon

$25

Dermstore

$26

Ulta Beauty

Why it's worth it: One of our six favorite La Roche-Posay products of all time, the 2024 Best of Beauty Award-winning Double Repair Face Moisturizer is a dermatologist-backed staple for eczema-prone skin thanks to its barrier-repairing formula and lightweight feel. It’s made with a blend of ceramides to replenish the skin’s protective lipid layer, niacinamide to calm redness, glycerin for lasting hydration, and the brand’s signature thermal spring water to support a balanced skin microbiome. “It’s oil-free, fragrance-free, and can repair the skin barrier in just one hour while keeping it hydrated for up to 48 hours,” says Dr. Goldenberg. Whether you use it on your face or body, it absorbs quickly and won’t clog pores.

Allure senior commerce director Shanna Shipin applying the La Roche-Posay Toleriane Double Repair Face Moisturizer

Shanna Shipin

Shipin after applying the La Roche-Posay Toleriane Double Repair Face Moisturizer

Shanna Shipin

Tester feedback from senior commerce director Shanna Shipin

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“It's up there with Aquaphor as a product that I can trust to perform no matter how dry or damaged my skin barrier is. It doesn't go big on fancy fine-line-reducing ingredients or anything; instead, it focuses on hydration. It leaves my skin wrapped in a cocoon of moisture—but not the overbearing and itchy kind! It plays nicely with my angry eczema flare-ups, and has no fragrance so that I can use it on my kids, too.” —Shanna Shipin, senior commerce director

More to know

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• Key ingredients: ceramides, niacinamide, glycerin, thermal spring water
• Fragrance-free: yes

Best for Barrier Repair: Dr. Althea 147 Barrier Cream

Dr. Althea

147 Barrier Cream

$27

Amazon

$27

Ulta Beauty

Why it's worth it: Remember when we said the more hyaluronic acid, the better? Dr. Althea 147 Barrier Cream takes that literally. The “1-4-7” stands for one key barrier-strengthening botanical (guaiazulene), four types of ceramides, and seven forms of hyaluronic acid—a formula designed to hydrate skin at multiple depths and rebuild a damaged moisture barrier. Additionally, those ceramides are especially important for eczema-prone skin: “They play a critical role in rebuilding the skin’s lipid matrix, preventing moisture loss and fortifying the barrier against irritants,” says Dr. Sung. Rounding things out are avocado extract and soothing artemisia, which help calm redness, sensitivity, and flaking.

Silva applying the Dr. Althea 147 Barrier Cream

Kassidy Silva

Silva after applying the Dr. Althea 147 Barrier Cream

Kassidy Silva

Tester feedback from Silva

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“Packing in the hydration overnight is one of the easiest ways to take care of my skin during the winter months. I’ll do my full nighttime routine starting with cleanser and a light toner, then add my first lighter moisturizer (currently Colorescience), apply my serums and finish it off with a thick layer of the Dr. Althea Barrier Cream. I use a hefty quarter sized dollop and apply it all over my face, rubbing the excess into my hands. Sealing everything in with the barrier cream leaves my skin plush and dewy by morning. And, it’s right around $25, so my wallet feels better when using a larger amount of the product.” —Silva, social director

More to know

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• Key ingredients: guaiazulene, ceramides, hyaluronic acid, avocado extract, artemisia
• Fragrance-free: yes

Best Long-Lasting: Sonsie Multi Moisture Cream

Sonsie

Multi Moisture Cream

$48

Sonsie

Why it's worth it: Why it's worth it: Originally launched as The Multi Moisture Mask, this formula recently got a new name—Sonsie Multi Moisture Cream—after people started using it for more than just masking. Now it’s officially a do-it-all hydrator you can slather on your face, body, or leave on overnight. Co-founded by Pamela Anderson, the brand keeps things simple but smart with this cream: It packs 12% glycerin and a very low-molecular-weight (50 kDa) hyaluronic acid that sinks deeper into the skin rather than sitting on the surface. “Humectants like glycerin and hyaluronic acid attract and hold water within the epidermis, delivering both immediate relief and lasting hydration,” says Dr. Sung. The texture is plush and leaves skin bouncy and calm—among the many reasons it snagged a 2025 Best of Beauty Award.

Tester feedback from Shipin

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“Hydrating. Nourishing. Consistent. Sonsie's cream simply works, day in and day out. That's saying something for me, who has dry but acne-prone skin, and plenty of allergies that cause dermatitis. Given that I test beauty products for a living, I'm constantly battling eczema breakouts, but I can rely on this ribbony formula to bring my skin back to a healthy baseline. It quells inflammation, feels like a million bucks (so elegant!), and is fragrance-free. It's a truly elevated daily moisturizer, and I haven't even talked about the packaging yet, which is a simple aluminum tube that sits beautifully on your counter, but also travels really well (as a frequent flier for work, I always have this in my carry-on). You only need a dab, and it'll stretch across your whole face, leaving a pretty, glowy sheen. I tend to prefer a lightweight moisturizer in the morning, so I'll primarily use this thicker cream in the evenings—almost like an overnight mask. And while it is on the heavier side, it never feels suffocating on the skin; it's no wonder it won a 2025 Best of Beauty Award!” —Shanna Shipin, senior commerce director

More to know

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• Key ingredients: glycerin, hyaluronic acid
• Fragrance-free: yes

Best Budget: Vanicream Daily Facial Moisturizer

Vanicream

Daily Facial Moisturizer

$14

Amazon

$14

Walmart

Why it's worth it: Vanicream Daily Facial Moisturizer has the Seal of Acceptance from the National Eczema Association, which is basically a shortcut way of saying: This stuff is really safe for sensitive, reactive skin. “It’s a silky lotion that feels weightless going on, yet hydrates like a cream,” says Dr. Sung. The formula leans on five ceramides and hyaluronic acid to “repair the lipid barrier and bind moisture into the top layer of the skin, so flakes, tightness, and rough patches become way less noticeable,” says Dr. Sung. And because it’s fragrance-, dye-, paraben-, and lanolin-free, and formulated without common allergens, it plays nicely with prescription topicals and everyday makeup. “Its non-comedogenic formula also minimizes breakouts while supporting barrier recovery for irritated skin,” she adds.

Tester feedback from associate manager of audience development Melanie Curry

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"I have uber sensitive skin, so I need a moisturizer that 1) won't break me out and 2) keep my skin hydrated all day. Which is why I love this Vanicream moisturizing cream. It feels amazing, and just a dab of it keeps my skin fresh all day, without any touchups. I also love how I can use it year-round—not too heavy for the summer but also not too light for the winter (when my skin gets super dry and flaky)." —Melanie Curry, associate manager of audience development

More to know

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• Key ingredients: ceramides, hyaluronic acid
• Fragrance-free: yes

Best for Itch Relief: CeraVe Itch Relief Moisturizing Cream

CeraVe

Itch Relief Moisturizing Cream

$25 $22 (12% off)

Amazon

$22

Walmart

Why it's worth it: CeraVe Itch Relief Moisturizing Cream doesn’t just hydrate—it goes after the itchiness that typically comes with those dry, rough patches. Its standout ingredient, 1% pramoxine hydrochloride, delivers fast-acting relief, so skin can start healing instead of staying irritated. The rest of the formula focuses on long-term barrier repair: “Packed with three essential ceramides and hyaluronic acid, this rich cream replenishes lipids and draws water into the epidermis for up to 24 hours,” says Dr. Sung. She adds that its proprietary MultiVesicular Emulsion (MVE delivery system “gradually releases moisture throughout the day, keeping chronically dry eczema calm and supple.” Even with petrolatum and shea butter in the mix, it absorbs without a greasy feel, making it easy to use on both the face and body.

More to know

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• Key ingredients: 1% pramoxine hydrochloride, ceramides, glycerin, petrolatum
• Fragrance-free: yes

Frequently Asked Questions

What moisturizer is best for facial eczema?

When dealing with facial eczema, take extra care to check the ingredient lists of your skin-care products. “Ceramides prevent moisture loss and fortify the barrier against irritants,” says Dr. Sung. From there, look for humectants like glycerin or hyaluronic acid to attract water to the skin. Emollients—think shea butter or petrolatum—help “fill in gaps between skin cells, creating a smooth, protective layer,” while colloidal oatmeal can calm itch, she says. A final bonus? Niacinamide, which Dr. Sung says helps “reduce inflammation and support natural barrier function,” so skin stays calmer and more resilient over time.

How do over-the-counter face moisturizers for eczema compare to prescription formulas?

Over-the-counter eczema creams are designed to be gentle, daily barrier builders, relying on ingredients like colloidal oatmeal, ceramides, and glycerin to hydrate and calm irritation. “The best moisturizers for eczema focus on mild anti-inflammatory effects,” making them ideal for maintenance or milder flare-ups, says Dr. Sung. Prescription treatments, on the other hand—such as topical corticosteroids or calcineurin inhibitors—offer stronger inflammation control, but they “carry risk like skin thinning or sensitivity with prolonged use,” she says. Dr. Sung’s advice: start with OTC formulas to strengthen and soothe the skin, and only “step up to prescription options when necessary, and under medical supervision.”

Meet the experts

• Gary Goldenberg, MD, a board-certified dermatologist and co-founder of Goldenberg Dermatology based in New York City
• Sarah Sung, MD, a board-certified dermatologist of The Perq based in Seattle

How we test and review products

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

For our list of the best face moisturizers for eczema, 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.

Courtesy of @overglowedit, @nailartbyqueenie, @nailsxanalysseSave StorySave this storySave StorySave this story

Soap, milk, clean girl, quiet luxury. After a year full of minimalist nail designs and colors, all signs point to a full pendulum swing: This winter’s nail art trends are loud, proud, bright, shiny, and spotted. You’d be hard-pressed to find a “barely there” in the bunch.

Fall runways featured flashy, reimagined animal prints. It took one innocent selfie from Hailey Bieber—the harbinger of many nail trends—to make polka-dot nails explode in popularity. And suddenly our feeds were filled with edgy, 3D takes on silver molten metal. If you’re ready for your nail art to be less whisper, more shout, these winter nail art trends are a perfect, bold antidote to the neutrals and nudes that dominated much of 2025. Below, experts break down what their clients are asking for and what they expect to see trending this season.

Polka dots

Courtesy of @nailsbyzolaCourtesy of @nail.foolCourtesy of @nailsxanalysseCourtesy of @enamelleCourtesy of @overgloweditCourtesy of @nailsxanalysse

If bare nails are like chamomile tea and sculptural, 3D nails are the quad latte of nail art, polka dots are like a half-caff—a low-commitment pick-me-up. If you’re just coming out of your natural nail daze, a good entry-level design like coquettish dots is the perfect first winter mani.

But just because the design is simple doesn't mean it has to be boring. Try a gradient Ben Day pattern (like the dots you see in comic-book illustrations or a Lichtenstein painting), create a black-and-white French manicure with dots just on the tips, à la Dua Lipa, or paint a Milky Way constellation of alternating sizes across the center. And of course, glazed pink nails with evenly-spaced white spots—like Hailey Bieber or Sabrina Carpenter—are a reliable go-to.

You’ll need a steady hand and the right tools to nail this trend, says Juanita Huber-Millet, founder and creative director of Townhouse salons. Otherwise, the spots will look amorphous, like a middle school art project done freehand. “Our nail artists work with dotting tools to ensure every detail is perfectly placed,” she explains. “It’s that precision and polish that elevate the look from playful to truly fashion-forward.”

A set like DND Dotting Nail Art Tools offers multiple dotting tips so you can create different looks. Use a larger, rounded tip for Minnie Mouse spots (see Sydney Sweeney’s inverted white-and-red polka-dot manicure; OPI Big Apple Red was practically made for this throwback combo) or a teeny pointed tip for delicate French hosiery dots (a sheer black like Cirque Colors NSFW Jelly makes a great base for black dots if you want that cheeky lingerie look). For a brighter vibe, Nails Inc. founder Thea Green recommends tiny green dots over hot pink (Wicked: For Good is in theaters this winter, after all).

Velvet French manicure

Courtesy of @jesamarie_Courtesy of @graciela.nailsCourtesy of @nailartbyqueenie

A classic French is fine and good for the holidays, but with all the emphasis on maximalism this season, it could use a few extra ingredients. A velvet French is like an eggnog, but with a dash of peppermint flavor for intrigue. You still get the sleek silhouette of French tips, but the cool dimension of magnetic polish. “It's fashionable without [being] overpowering,” says Los Angeles-based nail artist Sarah Chue.

You could go the sleek and simple route: a regular white-tipped French with an all-over velvet sheen as the base (INLP in Cashmere is a good neutral, or Born Pretty polish in Jelly Pink if you prefer your French manicure with a pinker base). It’s a versatile look, and any length or shape will work because the finish is what makes the impact.

Or you could mix it up. Get creative with a color—or five!—or pull the cat-eye dimension on just the tips so it’s really only a French manicure at certain angles. “To achieve this, you would use a rectangle magnet,” says Chue. “Hold the magnet upright and start from the cuticle of the nail and gently and slowly drag the magnet down towards the tip of the nail, revealing the French curve.”

Surrealist animal print

Courtesy of @misspopnailsCourtesy of @happyclawsssCourtesy of @naominailsnycCourtesy of @vanityprojects

If Salvador Dalí were alive today and forayed into a side hustle as a nail tech, his clients wouldn’t end up with just a standard leopard print. Purple crocodiles, holographic blue zebras, and butterflies with gold-tipped pink wings—now that’s the stuff of a true surrealist’s dream.

This winter, we’re expecting a zoo’s worth of animal prints in unexpected colors, like the golden zebra stripes New York City-based manicurist Miss Pop painted onto Salon Perfect Magnetic Mirror Effect press-ons for Bronx and Banco at Fashion Week this fall. “I love re-creating the print and taking it to the next dimension by playing with textured, tactile spots or giving the illusion of the way fur glistens in the light,” she says.

More intricate designs are better left to the seasoned pros or press-ons, but crocodile scales are fairly straightforward. Start with a base color of your choice (since we’re dealing with Technicolor wildlife, we recommend Holo Taco nail polish in Peri-Social), then paint on a blooming gel like Gelcare Blooming Gel, which "allows drops of [gel polish color] to move without them connecting,” says New York-based manicurist Elle Gerstein.

Then place drops of your crocodile-scale color (we like Apres Gel Couleur in PB&Jelly) and watch them “bloom.” You may want a nail-dotting tool to guide them into uniform squoval shapes, but keep in mind: “This can only be done with gel and not lacquer,” says Gerstein. A UV light is what will freeze those drops of concentrated color into place.

Marbled

Courtesy of @enamelleCourtesy of @sansungnails

Another handy use for that blooming gel? The marbled stone nails we’re seeing everywhere on our Instagram feeds are thanks to nail artists like Gerstein and Naomi Yasuda.

Choose a base color, then two or three complementary colors to swirl on top of a coat of blooming gel. For a subtler set, start with a sheer neutral like Nails Inc. 1-Step Nail Polish in It’s Topless Renee, top with blooming gel, and use a dotting tool to swirl on shades of espresso and chestnut (try Essie Fringes & Saddle or Save a Cowboy) alongside a white like Static Nails Liquid Glass Lacquer in Elixir to give it that cracked-stone dimension.

If realistic marble sounds too buttoned-up for your taste, reach for varying shades of wintery blues or even swirls of hot pink and orange. The key pieces are: blooming gel to keep those colors separated and lines of white to help create realistic variation in the “stone.”

Chunky knit

Courtesy of @iris.nailed.itCourtesy of @baynailedit

The weather outside is frightful, and what better way to stave off the cold than an homage to your coziest sweater? Whether you prefer a hardy New England fisherman knit, delicate embroidery on cashmere, or classic Fair Isle patterns, a sprinkling of acrylic powder is just as good as a pair of knitting needles.

Gerstein especially loves the combo of glossy and matte to emphasize texture. “It creates the fun fabric look that we’re seeing on the runways and gives your polish some versatility,” she says.

Start with a glossy gel base and cure it with a UV light. Then use the same color to paint on your knitted design. Sprinkle a clear acrylic powder on top, cure again, and brush the excess powder away. You’ll be left with a monochromatic knit effect that rivals your favorite cardigan.

Meet the experts

• Elle Gerstein is a New York City-based nail artist.
• Thea Green is the founder of the London-based brand Nails Inc.
• Juanita Huber-Millet is the founder and creative director of Townhouse salons across the UK, and in New York City and Los Angeles.
• Miss Pop is a New York City-based nail artist.

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

Face oils get a bad rap for being greasy, pore-clogging, or only useful if you’re chasing a temporary glow, but the best face oils have come a long way. “A face oil primarily helps seal in hydration and reinforce your skin’s natural moisture barrier,” says Whitney Hovenic, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in Reno, Nevada. Because they’re made of lipids (not water), they lock in moisture rather than delivering active, water-based ingredients like serums do.

That’s also why facial oils are almost always the final step in your routine, “since they’re formulated to sit on top of the skin,” adds Corey L. Hartman, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in Birmingham, AL, which helps seal in everything underneath and prevent moisture loss—key for anyone dealing with dryness and flaking. And here’s the surprising part: They’re far more versatile than people think. Even oily, acne-prone, or combination skin types can use face oils, says Dr. Hartman. Just stick to non-comedogenic options like squalane or jojoba and apply only a few drops as your last step.

Our Top Face Oils

• Best Overall: Summer Fridays Heavenly Sixteen All-In-One Face Oil, $55
• Best for Sensitive Skin: Elemis Superfood Face Oil, $69
• Best Luxe: La Mer The Renewal Oil, $150
• Best Drugstore: CeraVe Skin Renewing Gel Oil, $26
• Best for Oily Skin: Ole Henriksen HydraBarrier Nourishing Peptide Face Oil, $58
• Best for Mature Skin: Kiehl's Midnight Recovery Concentrate, $84
• Best for Acne-Prone Skin: Sunday Riley Luna Retinol Sleeping Oil, $55
• Best for Barrier Repair: Byoma Hydrating Recovery Oil, $19

Frequently Asked QuestionsAccordionItemContainerButtonLargeChevron

• Will face oils make me break out?
• Can face oils be anti-aging?
• Meet the experts
• How we test and review products
• Our staff and testers

Ahead, we rounded up the best face oils for every skin type and concern, from lightweight, non-comedogenic oils for breakout-prone skin to deeply nourishing blends that bring dull, mature skin back to life.

Best Overall: Summer Fridays Heavenly Sixteen All-In-One Face Oil

Summer Fridays

Heavenly Sixteen All-In-One Face Oil

$55

Amazon

$55

Revolve

$55

Sephora

Why it's worth it: Some face oils are just about surface-level sheen, but Summer Fridays’ Heavenly Sixteen All-In-One Face Oil does more than give that coveted glow. It pairs it with real skin benefits (think moisture retention, barrier support, and a subtle plumping effect) thanks to a blend of 16 oils, including sunflower, meadowfoam, pomegranate, sacha inchi, prickly pear, and hemp seed. Together, they “offer deep hydration and a more radiant, even-toned complexion,” says Dr. Hartman. We chose it as our overall pick because it feels luxe but still plays well with every skin type (yes, even oily and acne-prone), thanks to its non-comedogenic formula and surprisingly fast absorption.

Allure senior commerce editor Sarah Felbin applying the Summer Fridays Heavenly Sixteen All-In-One Face Oil

Sarah Felbin

Felbin after applying the Summer Fridays Heavenly Sixteen All-In-One Face Oil

Sarah Felbin

Tester feedback from senior commerce editor Sarah Felbin

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“I was super-skeptical of face oils before I tried this one. My skin is naturally pretty oily, so I wasn't sure if an oil would add anything to my skin-care routine, but this one from Summer Fridays changed the game for me. It's thin and lightweight, but also incredibly moisturizing. It doesn't feel too thick or sticky and gives my skin a healthy glow without making me look greasy. I love that I can use it alone on top of my skin care or mix a drop into my moisturizer—both methods have helped heal the always-dry patches around my nose.” —Sarah Felbin, senior commerce editor

More to know

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• Key ingredients: prickly pear seed oil, sacha inchi seed oil, pomegranate seed oil
• Fragrance-free: yes

Best for Sensitive Skin: Elemis Superfood Face Oil

Elemis

Superfood Face Oil

$72

Elemis

Why it's worth it: It’s fitting that a brand with deep spa roots would create a face oil that basically works like a green smoothie for your skin. Elemis Superfood Facial Oil—a 2025 Best of Beauty Award winner—takes that “daily dose of greens” idea literally, packing in a blend of nourishing plant oils that feed, cushion, and revive dry or lackluster skin. The formula leans on flaxseed oil, which is “rich in omega-3 fatty acids that strengthen the skin barrier and keep it hydrated,” says Omer Ibrahim, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in Chicago. Sweet almond oil “locks in moisture and supports repair thanks to its naturally high vitamin E content,” while daikon radish and broccoli seed oil bring lightweight slip and a silky, fast-absorbing finish, so you get glow without grease, says Dr. Ibrahim.

Allure contributing commerce writer Christa Joanna Lee applying the Elemis Superfood Face Oil

Christa Joanna Lee

Lee after applying the Elemis Superfood Face Oil

Christa Joanna Lee

Tester feedback from contributing commerce writer Christa Joanna Lee

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“After a few weeks of using this oil once or twice daily, some of my dullness had faded, my complexion looked brighter and more even, and those pesky dry patches around my nose and chin finally calmed down. The biggest change, though, is waking up with plump, bouncy skin that has that just-had-a-facial glow. Elemis’s Superfood Hydrating Nourishing Facial Oil has quickly become one of those rare finds that does it all: It feels luxe, smells fresh, and offers easy results. If you’ve avoided face oils because of the grease factor, this one’s the perfect entry point.” —Christa Joanna Lee, contributing commerce writer

More to know

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• Key ingredients: sweet almond oil, flaxseed oil, daikon radish, broccoli seed oil, squalane
• Fragrance-free: no

Best Luxe: La Mer The Renewal Oil

La Mer

The Renewal Oil

$295

Nordstrom

$295

Bluemercury

$295

Sephora

Why it's worth it: It’s hard to talk about La Mer without talking about the Miracle Broth—the legendary fermented blend of sea kelp, vitamins, and minerals that began as a healing experiment by an aerospace physicist and went on to power one of the most famous face creams in the world. If you love the story (and the results) but want something silkier and even more hydrating than the cream, try a few drops of The Renewal Oil. It’s formulated with that same iconic broth in a lightweight, skin-soaking oil that nourishes, softens, and smooths mature or seriously parched skin. Along with Miracle Broth, the oil features the brand’s Infinity Oil Complex—a cushiony mix of meadowfoam seed, sweet almond, and jojoba oils for deep, long-lasting suppleness—plus peptides to help support firmness over time. Since it’s a dual-phase formula, give the bottle a quick shake first to blend the oils, so you get the full benefits from each drop.

Allure social director Kassidy Silva applying the La Mer The Renewal Oil

Kassidy Silva

Silva after applying the La Mer The Renewal Oil

Kassidy Silva

Tester feedback from social director Kassidy Silva

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“The La Mer Renewal Oil is the 60 seconds of luxury that every mom deserves in their skin-care routine. My skin looks instantly brighter after just three drops. I apply it in the mornings when I wake up exceptionally dry in the winter months, or anytime my skin needs a luminous boost.” —Kassidy Silva, social director

More to know

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• Key ingredients: Miracle Broth (sea kelp, vitamins, minerals), Infinity Oil Complex (including meadowfoam seed oil, sweet almond oil, jojoba seed oil), peptides
• Fragrance-free: no

Best Drugstore: CeraVe Skin Renewing Gel Oil

CeraVe

Skin Renewing Gel Oil

$26

Amazon

$26

Ulta Beauty

Why it's worth it: If you love the idea of a face oil but hate the greasy, slippery feeling most of them leave behind, CeraVe’s Skin Renewing Gel Oil is the happy middle ground. Its gel-to-oil texture feels weightless when applied, but still delivers the comforting, cushiony hydration you expect from an oil. The formula blends skin-softening glycerin for moisture with five ceramides, cholesterol, and hyaluronic acid crosspolymer to help strengthen the skin barrier. You’ll also find antioxidant-rich sunflower extract, rosemary leaf extract, and rice bran extract for extra soothing support. “People don’t realize there’s a prescription-only product with similar ceramide levels. CeraVe offers the same benefits at a way more affordable price point,” says Tanya Kormeili, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in Santa Monica.

More to know

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• Key ingredients: glycerin, hyaluronic acid, sunflower extract
• Fragrance-free: yes

Best for Oily Skin: Ole Henriksen HydraBarrier Nourishing Peptide Face Oil

Ole Henriksen

HydraBarrier Nourishing Peptide Face Oil

$58

Ulta Beauty

$58

Revolve

$58

Sephora

Why it's worth it: Oh, you thought having oily skin meant face oils were off-limits? Plot twist: Excess sebum is often due to dehydrated skin trying to make up for the lack of moisture—so the right oil can actually rebalance things instead of making you shinier. That’s where Ole Henriksen HydraBarrier Nourishing Peptide Face Oil, a 2023 Best of Beauty Award winner, comes in, as a lightweight formula that works for all skin types, even the slick ones. Its foundation is a trio of oil-soluble peptides, “which improve skin function and support elasticity,” says Justine H. Park, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in Westlake Village, CA. They’re paired with Scandinavian berry oils (cloudberry, lingonberry, and elderberry), packed with antioxidants and omega fatty acids for deep moisture without the heaviness. Ceramides help skin hold onto hydration, while “squalane and vitamin E further soften the skin,” adds Dr. Park.

More to know

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• Key ingredients: peptides, cloudberry oil, lingonberry oil, elderberry oil, ceramides, squalane, vitamin E
• Fragrance-free: no

Best for Mature Skin: Kiehl's Midnight Recovery Concentrate

Kiehl's

Midnight Recovery Concentrate

$140

Amazon

$140

Nordstrom

Why it's worth it: Kiehl’s Midnight Recovery Concentrate doesn’t contain retinol or other actives that make your skin sun-sensitive, but you’ll still look forward to using this specifically as part of your p.m. routine. The lightweight lavender scent gives it a built-in wind-down moment, and the formula works in sync with your skin’s natural overnight repair cycle. A blend of nourishing, non-greasy oils, including evening primrose and rosehip, helps soften fine lines and replenish lost moisture while you sleep. By morning, skin feels smoother and looks more refreshed, with a little extra bounce, especially if you’re dealing with dryness or visible signs of aging.

More to know

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• Key ingredients: lavender oil, evening primrose oil, rose oil, squalane, jojoba seed oil
• Fragrance-free: yes

Best for Acne-Prone Skin: Sunday Riley Luna Retinol Sleeping Oil

Sunday Riley

Luna Sleeping Retinoid Night Oil

$105

Amazon

$105

Nordstrom

$105

Ulta Beauty

Why it's worth it: Now, if you’re looking for a retinol-based product to tackle everything from breakouts to signs of aging, there’s a reason nearly every Allure editor has had this signature blue bottle of Sunday Riley Luna Retinol Sleeping Oil on their vanity at some point. Luna uses a retinoid ester (a gentler, oil-soluble form of retinoid) to help smooth fine lines, even tone, and—our favorite benefit—keep acne-prone skin in check by regulating oil production and speeding up cell turnover. “Retinol is a must for anyone with blemish-prone skin, and this lightweight oil makes it easy to apply without irritation,” says Dr. Hartman. It’s also buffered with blue tansy and chamomile to calm redness and chia and blackberry seed oils to soften skin overnight.

More to know

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• Key ingredients: retinoid ester, blue tansy, chamomile, chia seed oil, blackberry seed oil
• Fragrance-free: yes

Best for Barrier Repair: Byoma Hydrating Recovery Oil

Byoma

Hydrating Recovery Oil

$19 $18 (5% off)

Amazon

$19

Ulta Beauty

Why it's worth it: If your skin ever feels tight, flaky, or reactive, that’s usually a sign your skin barrier needs a little repair work. Byoma Hydrating Recovery Oil. It uses a proprietary Barrier Lipid Complex to replenish the fats your skin naturally loses, while squalane teams up with eight antioxidant-rich botanical oils (including jojoba, rosehip, sunflower, and sea buckthorn) to restore moisture and balance without leaving a greasy film.“I love this oil because it’s lightweight yet incredibly nourishing. It strengthens and hydrates the skin while giving that dewy, healthy look,” says Whitney Hovenic, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in Reno, Nevada.

More to know

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• Key ingredients: squalane, jojoba oil, seabuckthorn oil
• Fragrance-free: yes

Frequently Asked Questions

Will face oils make me break out?

Contrary to what people believe, the best oils don’t automatically cause breakouts. “There are non-comedogenic face oils that use oils that do not clog pores, and if you have acne-prone skin, I only recommend using those,” says Dr. Hartman. If your skin is oily or breakout-prone, Dr. Hartman suggests easing in slowly: “Start with applying a face oil once a week and increase if desired.” And if you’re already dealing with active acne, check with your dermatologist, who can help assess the right way to use face oil in your routine.

Can people with mature skin use face oils?

“Many face oils are rich in antioxidants, fatty acids, and vitamins that help support collagen and protect against environmental damage,” says Dr. Hovenic. She recommends looking for oils like rosehip (packed with vitamins A and C), argan (a great source of vitamin E), and marula or sea buckthorn (loaded with omega fatty acids), all of which can help smooth fine lines, boost elasticity, and give mature skin a healthier, more radiant glow. Face oils also work well alongside traditional anti-aging actives: “They pair well with ingredients like retinol by providing hydration and helping avoid irritation that can happen with retinol use,” she adds.

Meet the experts

• Corey L. Hartman, MD, a board-certified dermatologist and founder of Skin Wellness Dermatology, based in Birmingham, AL
• Whitney Hovenic, MD, a board-certified dermatologist and co-founder of Spooge based in Reno, Nevada
• Omer Ibrahim, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in Chicago
• Tanya Kormeili, MD, a board-certified dermatologist and founder of Derm & Rejuvenation Institute, based in Santa Monica
• Justine H. Park, MD, a board-certified dermatologist of the Skin & Beauty Center based in Westlake Village, CA

How we test and review products

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

For our list of the best face oils, 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.

Collage: Paula Balondo; Source images: Courtesy of brands

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If you’ve been curious about trying retinol but want something a little gentler to start with, the best bakuchiol serums might be your perfect entry point. Bakuchiol has been gaining traction in skin-care circles because it offers many of the same benefits as retinol—think smoother texture, more even skin tone, and softened fine lines—but with a much lower risk of irritation. “Bakuchiol is a gentle, plant-derived alternative to retinol that helps boost cell turnover and support collagen production,” says Nazanin Saedi, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in East Norriton, PA.

Other major perks? Unlike traditional retinoids, “bakuchiol does not increase your skin’s sensitivity to sunlight, so it’s safe and effective to use day or night,” says Dr. Saedi. And while every pregnancy calls for a chat with your dermatologist when you switch up your routine, many experts view bakuchiol as a gentler, better-tolerated alternative to retinol for those who are pregnant or breastfeeding. Ahead, check out the formulas dermatologists and our editors agree are worth the shelf space.

Our Top Bakuchiol Serums

• Best Overall: Isdin Isdinceutics Melatonik Serum, $175
• Best for Sensitive Skin: Medik8 Bakuchiol Peptides Serum, $58
• Best Drugstore: Eau Thermale Avène RetrinAL Advanced Correcting Serum, $78
• Best for Dry Skin: Herbivore Botanicals Bakuchiol Dual Retinol Alternative Serum, $58
• Best for Acne-Prone Skin: Typology Serum Imperfections Bakuchiol 1%, $56
• Best with Retinol: Paula’s Choice Clinical 0.3% Retinol + 2% Bakuchiol Treatment, $60
• Best for Mature Skin: Replenix Retinol+Bakuchiol Concentrated Serum, $93

Frequently Asked Questions

• How does bakuchiol compare to retinol in terms of results?
• Can bakuchiol be layered with acids, vitamin C, or niacinamide?
• Is it okay to use bakuchiol with retinol together?
• Meet the experts
• How we test and review products
• Our staff and testers

Best Overall: Isdin Isdinceutics Melatonik Serum

Isdin

Isdinceutics Melatonik Serum

$175

Amazon

$175

Dermstore

Allure contributing commerce writer Christa Joanna Lee applying the Isdin Isdinceutics Melatonik Serum

Christa Joanna Lee

Why it's worth it: Even though Isdin Isdinceutics Melatonik doesn’t contain retinol (so there’s no increased sun sensitivity to worry about), it’s still a nighttime-only serum. In addition to bakuchiol, the other star ingredient, melatonin, works with your skin’s natural overnight repair cycle, acting as an indirect antioxidant to help reinforce its defenses against free-radical damage while you sleep. “The nighttime delivery enables the serum to sink into the skin and renew while you sleep,” says Corey L. Hartman, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in Birmingham, AL. Plus, there’s vitamin C for added brightening and environmental protection come morning. Between the silky serum-in-oil texture that melts right in, the non-comedogenic formula, and the fact that it skips all the usual retinol drama (read: peeling and purging), this is one bakuchiol serum that earns its luxe price tag.

Tester feedback from contributing commerce writer Christa Joanna Lee

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“While my demo video above shows me applying this serum during the day so you can actually see the texture, remember that it’s technically a nighttime treatment thanks to the melatonin in the formula. It’s slightly thicker than your typical watery serum, so it takes a few extra seconds to fully sink in, but once it does, there’s zero greasy residue—just cushy, nourished skin. Even though fragrance is listed on the ingredient label, I could barely detect any scent, which is a plus for sensitive skin (and noses). After a few uses, my skin looked smoother and more refreshed in the morning.” —Christa Joanna Lee, contributing commerce writer

More to know

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• Key ingredients: bakuchiol (percentage not disclosed), melatonin, vitamin C
• Fragrance-free: no

Best for Sensitive Skin: Medik8 Bakuchiol Peptides Serum

Medik8

Bakuchiol Peptides Serum

$58

Dermstore

$58

Medik8

Former Allure commerce writer Jennifer Hussein applying the Medik8 Bakuchiol Peptides Serum

Jennifer Hussein

Why it's worth it: While you might know Medik8 for its iconic Crystal Retinol, Bakuchiol Peptides is a gentler alternative for those with sensitive skin. The lightweight, oil-based serum features 1.25% bakuchiol—a slightly higher concentration than many formulas—yet it’s surprisingly well-tolerated for irritation-prone skin. That’s thanks to its blend of brightening peptides, soothing Centella asiatica, and omega-rich oils that cushion the formula and help calm redness while boosting firmness and skin elasticity over time. “This face serum has a soothing formula that leaves the skin feeling soft and well-hydrated. And, with consistent use, you may begin to see a renewed, more balanced glow,” says Dr. Saedi.

Tester feedback from former commerce writer Jennifer Hussein

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“Medik8's double-dose of bakuchiol and peptides perks up my ever-so-slightly sagging skin (you may not notice, but I see it) when I need the pick-me-up."Its lightweight, fluid formula dries down fast and leaves my skin feeling velvety smooth and primed for my next skin-care step." —Jennifer Hussein, former commerce writer

More to know

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• Key ingredients: 1.25% bakuchiol, peptides, Centella asiatica, inka omega oil, jojoba seed oil
• Fragrance-free: yes

Best Drugstore: Eau Thermale Avène RetrinAL Advanced Correcting Serum

Eau Thermale Avène

RetrinAL Advanced Correcting Serum

$78

Amazon

$78

Dermstore

Allure commerce editor Sarah Han applying the Avène RetrinAL Advanced Correcting Serum

Sarah Han

Why it's worth it: Most of Avène’s RetrinAL products lean on retinaldehyde (a.k.a. retinal), a vitamin A derivative that works faster than traditional retinol but is still gentler than prescription-strength retinoids. But here’s where our ingredient sleuthing at Allure comes in: despite the name, RetrinAL Advanced Correcting Serum doesn’t contain retinal at all. This version relies on bakuchiol to deliver similar smoothing and line-softening results without the irritation retinal products can trigger. That switch makes the serum an especially great pick for sensitive or reactive skin: “This product is widely available, and Avène is known for its gentleness due to the thermal spring water used in their formulations,” says William Kwan, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in Beverly Hills and Encino, CA. The formula also features hyaluronic acid to ward off dryness, niacinamide to calm and strengthen the skin barrier, and pre-tocopheryl (a stable form of vitamin E) for antioxidant protection—making it a soothing, beginner-friendly way to get retinoid-adjacent benefits.

Tester feedback from commerce editor Sarah Han

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"For the most part, my skin can tolerate retinol, but when the weather changes, my skin occasionally freaks out. When I want to take it easy, I reach for RetrinAL Advanced Correcting Serum as the second-to-last step of my skin-care routine—sometimes I'll go as far as pairing it with another (albeit, simplier) HA serum for extra nourishment. This has a milky-white texture that I can count on to never sting, boost brightness and glow, and smooth texture just as well as other low-concentration retinols." —Sarah Han, commerce editor

More to know

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• Key ingredients: bakuchiol (percentage not disclosed), hyaluronic acid, niacinamide, pre-tocopheryl, thermal spring water
• Fragrance-free: yes

Best for Dry Skin: Herbivore Botanicals Bakuchiol Dual Retinol Alternative Serum

Herbivore Botanicals

Bakuchiol Dual Retinol Alternative Serum

$58 $46 (21% off)

Amazon

$58

Dermstore

Why it's worth it: If you’ve been steering clear of retinol-based products because your skin leans dry or easily tight, Herbivore’s Bakuchiol Serum offers a gentler way to smooth fine lines without sacrificing hydration. Instead of drying actives, the nourishing formula pairs bakuchiol with moisture-binding betaine and glycerin, which help draw water into the skin and keep it comfortably plump throughout the day. A rare addition you won’t spot in many formulas, mastic tree resin—harvested on the remote Greek island of Chios—helps refine skin texture and visibly tighten pores, all without the irritation or peeling you’d expect from traditional retinoids.

Tester feedback from contributing commerce writer Christa Joanna Lee

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“This serum is such an easy addition to any skin-care routine. It layers seamlessly with everything and never causes irritation. Because it skips traditional retinol, the results for fine lines are a bit more subtle, but the plumping and hydration are absolutely legit.” —Christa Joanna Lee, contributing commerce writer

More to know

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• Key ingredients: bakuchiol (percentage undisclosed), mastic tree resin, prince ginseng
• Fragrance-free: yes

Best for Acne-Prone Skin: Typology Serum Imperfections Bakuchiol 1%

Typology

Serum Imperfections Bakuchiol 1%

$56

Typology

Why it's worth it: You usually hear bakuchiol praised for wrinkles and firmness, but it can be just as beneficial for breakout-prone skin. Typology Serum Imperfections 1% Bakuchiol keeps things incredibly simple with just three ingredients—caprylic/capric triglyceride, hazelnut seed oil, and 1% bakuchiol—making it a great fit for anyone who wants targeted treatment without fluff ingredients. “It’s a nice option for oily skin as the formula’s anti-inflammatory properties can help calm acne and blemishes that often occur due to excess sebum. The formula is also non-comedogenic, which is essential for anyone with oily skin,” says Dr. Hartman. Technically more of a dry oil than a traditional serum, it absorbs quickly, helps reduce congestion-causing bacteria, balances sebum, and can even soften post-blemish marks over time.

More to know

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• Key ingredients: 1% bakuchiol, caprylic/capric triglyceride, hazelnut seed oil
• Fragrance-free: yes

Best with Retinol: Paula’s Choice Clinical 0.3% Retinol + 2% Bakuchiol Treatment

Paula's Choice

Clinical 0.3% Retinol + 2% Bakuchiol Treatment

$65

Amazon

$65

Dermstore

$65

Paula's Choice

Why it's worth it: Rather than choosing between retinol or bakuchiol, Paula’s Choice Clinical 0.3% Retinol + 2% Bakuchiol Treatment combines both in one formula for a stronger—but still surprisingly tolerable—approach to visible aging. It also happens to have the highest concentration of bakuchiol (2%) of any product on our list, which is worth noting if you’re looking for maxed-out benefits. Studies suggest that pairing bakuchiol with retinol can enhance efficacy and improve overall tolerability compared with either alone. “It works particularly well on mature skin because the retinol–bakuchiol pairing targets fine lines and wrinkles while boosting collagen for a firmer, smoother appearance,” says Dr. Hartman. This treatment also features ceramides, peptides, licorice root extract, and hyaluronic acid to help hydrate, brighten, and buffer potential irritation.

More to know

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• Key ingredients: 0.3% retinol, 2% bakuchiol, ceramides, peptides, licorice root extract, hyaluronic acid
• Fragrance-free: yes

Best for Mature Skin: Replenix Retinol+Bakuchiol Concentrated Serum

Replenix

Retinol+Bakuchiol Concentrated Serum

$93

Amazon

$93

Dermstore

Why it's worth it: Another retinol-and-bakuchiol combo on our list, Replenix Retinol+Bakuchiol Concentrated Serum is designed to address signs of aging—think fine lines, uneven skin tone, and loss of firmness. “It’s an elegant product with a smooth texture that can work as well as tretinoin,” says Dr. Kwan. What really sets it apart is the backup team of skin-calming ingredients: a blend of green tea polyphenols, black tea extract, and licorice root that helps dial down inflammation and brighten dullness—two things mature skin usually deals with just as much as wrinkles. And because retinol can be drying, there’s glycerin to keep moisture levels up so skin looks smooth, not tight or flaky.

More to know

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• Key ingredients: bakuchiol (percentage not disclosed), caffeine, green tea, black tea, licorice root extract, retinol (percentage not disclosed)
• Fragrance-free: yes

Frequently Asked Questions

How does bakuchiol compare to retinol in terms of results?

Bakuchiol products show a lot of promise, but they’re not as well-proven as retinol. “Since it’s a newer skin-care ingredient, there are only a few small, limited studies on its effectiveness. In these studies, they suggest that it can have similar benefits to retinoids without the irritation. However, retinoids have decades of research to validate their benefits,” says Dr. Kwan. So while bakuchiol may be a natural alternative to retinol and have comparable smoothing, brightening, and collagen-supporting effects, retinol remains the gold standard for long-term data.

Can bakuchiol be layered with acids, vitamin C, or niacinamide?

Bakuchiol is easygoing when it comes to mixing with other ingredients. “It can be layered, and is often combined with other skin-care ingredients like vitamin C, which can make it easier to apply all in one step,” says Dr. Kwan. Unlike retinol, it’s less likely to clash with exfoliating acids or calming ingredients like niacinamide, so that most people can use it alongside their usual routine without irritation. That said, if you’re stacking multiple actives in your beauty products, a quick patch test never hurts.

Is it okay to use bakuchiol with retinol together?

It’s not necessarily redundant to use bakuchiol and retinol together—in fact, some people may benefit from the combo. “I often recommend pairing products that stimulate collagen production together, like retinol/retinoids and peptides or growth factors,” says Dr. Kwan. Bakuchiol won’t “cancel out” retinol’s effects, and in some formulas, it’s included to help buffer irritation while still supporting firmness and cell turnover. That said, if you're already tolerating retinol well, you may not need bakuchiol, but it can be a helpful add-on if you're looking for extra support without increasing strength. Just a quick reminder: if you’re using a retinol and bakuchiol combo at night, don’t skip sunscreen the next morning, as your skin will need the extra protection.

Meet the experts

• Corey L. Hartman, MD, a board-certified dermatologist and founder of Skin Wellness Dermatology based in Birmingham, AL
• William Kwan, MD, a board-certified dermatologist at Golden State Dermatology in Beverly Hills and Encino, CA
• Nazanin Saedi, MD, a board-certified dermatologist at Plymouth Meeting Dermatology, based in East Norriton, PA

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 bakuchiol serums, 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.

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