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Photographed by CARLOS and ALYSE. Stylist: Fiona Green. Hair: Jenni Iva Wimmerstedt. Makeup: Andrew Colvin. Manicure: Elina Ogawa. Model: Brandi Quinones. Shirt by Issey Miyake. Earrings by Paula Mendoza.

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All products featured on Allure are independently selected by our editors. However, we may receive compensation from retailers and/or from purchases of products through these links.

Skin-care products aren’t known for instant gratification, but using the best wrinkle cream proves the power of patience. While no cream can reverse signs of aging altogether, early and consistent use of these superhero formulas can soften fine lines, tighten and plump skin, and even tone over time. And while we think aging skin is something to celebrate, we get it if you’re not quite ready to embrace the changes.

These potent moisturizers are formulated with active ingredients—like peptides, hyaluronic acid, retinol, and ceramides (to name a few)—designed to temporarily improve the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles while making up for lost moisture. We tapped dermatologists to learn which wrinkle serums and creams actually work—here are the best 10.

Our Top Wrinkle Creams

• Best Wrinkle Cream Overall: Alastin Restorative Skin Complex with TriHex+, $258
• Best for Dry Skin: Lancôme Rénergie H.P.N. 300-Peptide Anti-Aging Cream, $150
• Best for Deep Wrinkles: SkinCeuticals A.G.E. Interrupter Advanced, $185
• Best for Barrier Support: Ourself Daily Renewal Cream Rich, $85
• Best for Sensitive Skin: RoC Retinol Correxion Max Daily Hydration Fragrance Free Cream, $35
• Best for Hyperpigmentation: Shiseido Vital Perfection Uplifting and Firming Advanced Cream, $145
• Best Firming: Neocutis BioSerum Firm, $290
• Best for Lax Skin: Isdin Isdinceutics Age Contour Night Face Moisturizer, $145
• Best for Expression Lines: Revision Skincare Revox 7, $150
• Best Drugstore: Olay Regenerist Micro-Sculpting Cream, $27

Frequently Asked QuestionsAccordionItemContainerButtonLargeChevron

• What causes skin aging?
• When will I start seeing results from wrinkle creams?
• What in-office treatments target wrinkles?
• Meet the experts
• How we test and review products
• Our staff and testers

Best Wrinkle Cream Overall: Alastin Restorative Skin Complex with TriHex+

Alastin

Restorative Skin Complex with TriHex+

$258

Alastin

Allure contributing commerce writer Christa Joanna Lee applying the Alastin Restorative Skin Complex with TriHex+

Christa Joanna Lee

Why we love it: Skin changes with time—that’s natural—but Alastin Restorative Skin Complex with TriHex+ helps it stay resilient, supported, and visibly vibrant at every stage. TriHex+ is the brand’s patented blend of peptides designed to clear out old, damaged collagen and elastin while signaling the skin to produce fresh, healthy fibers in their place (in other words, think of it as a cleanup crew and a construction team in one). The recently updated formula steps things up with octapeptide-45 to further support collagen, elastin, and hyaluronic acid, plus magnolol to calm inflammation and l-ornithine to help visibly firm and re-plump thinning areas. Whether you’re in between treatments or just want to keep skin looking supported and firm, this serum-like consistency sinks in quickly, making it easy to fit into any routine (and worthy of its luxury price point).

Lee before applying the Alastin Restorative Skin Complex with TriHex+

Christa Joanna Lee

Lee after applying the Alastin Restorative Skin Complex with TriHex+

Christa Joanna Lee

Tester feedback from contributing commerce writer Christa Joanna Lee

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“As someone with dry, sensitive skin and a few early signs of aging (read: the appearance of fine lines around my eyes), my first foray into Alastin skin care has been a pleasant surprise. The Restorative Skin Complex with TriHex+ feels like the perfect mix of an ultra-light moisturizer and serum—it sinks in fast but leaves my skin hydrated and smooth all day. After a few weeks, my complexion looks a little plumper and my skin texture is more even—with hardly any effort at all.” —Christa Joanna Lee, contributing commerce writer

More to know

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

Best for Dry Skin: Lancôme Rénergie H.P.N. 300-Peptide Anti-Aging Cream

Lancôme

Rénergie H.P.N. 300-Peptide Anti-Aging Cream

$150

Amazon

$150

Nordstrom

$150

Ulta Beauty

Why it's worth it: H.P.N. is an acronym for the three star ingredients doing the heavy lifting in this formula: hyaluronic acid, peptides (over 300 of them!), and niacinamide. Together, “Lancôme’s Rénergie H.P.N. 300-Peptide Anti-Aging Cream is a multi-tasking formula that helps firm, smooth, and brighten the skin,” says Whitney Hovenic, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in Reno, Nevada. The peptides help support collagen and elasticity, niacinamide improves tone and radiance, and hyaluronic acid pulls in deep moisture—making tight, dehydrated skin feel cushioned again. As Dr. Hovenic explains, “The texture feels rich but absorbs quickly, leaving skin hydrated, supple, and visibly more radiant with continued use.”

More to know

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• Key ingredients: hyaluronic acid, peptides, niacinamide
• Fragrance-free: no

Best for Deep Wrinkles: SkinCeuticals A.G.E. Interrupter Advanced

SkinCeuticals

A.G.E. Interrupter Advanced

$185

SkinCeuticals

$185

Dermstore

$185

Bluemercury

Why we love it: A.G.E. doesn’t actually stand for “age” (even though it’s fitting); it’s short for advanced glycation end-products, which are basically sticky sugar-protein bonds that gunk up your collagen over time and lead to deeper wrinkles, sagging, and that crepey look on the face, neck, and chest. SkinCeuticals’ A.G.E. Interrupter Advanced was made to slow that process down and help undo some of the visible effects. The featured ingredient is proprietary 18% Proxylane, a molecule that helps rebuild the skin’s “support beams,” making it look firmer and more cushioned. The formula also packs 4.25% blueberry and pomegranate flavonoids to help defend against sugar and environmental damage, plus 0.1% licorice-derived glycyrrhetinic acid to calm and brighten. It’s richer than a standard moisturizer, but that’s on purpose—it’s meant for skin dealing with deeper lines, loss of density, and dryness.

Tester feedback from senior editor Jesa Marie Calaor

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“Many moisturizers sting my dry, sensitive skin—but not the A.G.E. Interrupter Advanced. It coddles my skin, comforting the extra-dry patches and leaving my complexion bouncy and bright.” —Jesa Marie Calaor, senior editor

More to know

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• Key ingredients: Proxylane, blueberry extract, pomegranate extract, glycyrrhetinic acid
• Fragrance-free: no

Best for Barrier Support: Ourself Daily Renewal Cream Rich

Ourself

Daily Renewal Cream Rich

$85

Ourself

Why we love it: The “Rich” version of Ourself’s Daily Renewal Cream is made for the moments your skin needs extra support: after a peel, during freezing cold-weather months, or when your face just feels dry and overworked. “It’s a favorite for those with dry skin, which is especially important as we go into the winter months,” says Dr. Hovenic. The formula relies on the brand’s Intides (a.k.a. “intelligent peptides”), niacinamide, hyaluronic acid, and ginger root extract to hydrate, even tone, and calm irritation. Then shea butter and carob fruit extract step in to “provide deep nourishment and strengthen the skin’s barrier function,” says Dr. Hovenic. Thanks to its slow-release delivery tech, the comfort actually lasts—“skin feels nourished and protected all day long,” she adds.

More to know

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• Key ingredients: Intides, niacinamide, hyaluronic acid, shea butter,
• Fragrance-free: yes

Best for Sensitive Skin: RoC Retinol Correxion Max Daily Hydration Fragrance Free Cream

RoC

Retinol Correxion Max Daily Hydration Fragrance Free Cream

$35 $28 (20% off)

Amazon

$38

Ulta Beauty

Why we love it: You might be surprised that our pick for sensitive skin includes retinol, but hear us out. RoC Retinol Correxion Max Daily Hydration Fragrance Free Cream pairs retinol (the gold-standard wrinkle fighter) with hyaluronic acid to cushion skin against the dryness and irritation retinol is known for. “This is a wrinkle-fighting cream for sensitive and dry skin, using both hyaluronic acid for short-term plumping and retinol for long-term results,” says Peter Bittar, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in Miami. The formula also includes soothing hydrators such as glycerin, dimethicone, and glyceryl behenate, plus antioxidants (vitamin E and C derivatives) to help calm and protect the skin. “Since it’s fragrance-free, it minimizes irritation,” and is a gentle entry point for anyone who wants retinol results without the rough side effects, says Dr. Bittar.

More to know

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• Key ingredients: retinol (percentage not disclosed), hyaluronic acid, glycerin
• Fragrance-free: yes

Best for Hyperpigmentation: Shiseido Vital Perfection Uplifting and Firming Advanced Cream

Shiseido

Vital Perfection Uplifting and Firming Advanced Cream

$145

Amazon

$145

Nordstrom

Why we love it: If your main concerns are uneven tone and dark spots, along with loss of firmness, Shiseido’s Vital Perfection Uplifting and Firming Advanced Cream targets all three at once. The formula’s hero, SafflowerRED (grown exclusively in Japan), helps lift, firm, and visibly even the complexion, while ziziphus jujuba fruit extract zeroes in on hyperpigmentation and elasticity. Ginseng root extract supports natural collagen production for brighter, stronger skin, and caffeine adds a quick-hit brightening effect while helping soften the look of lines. Plus, a mix of gentle botanicals—like rosemary, green tea, and angelica root—helps calm, hydrate, and maintain the moisture barrier, which is key if you want that firm-yet-glowy finish instead of tight, dry skin.

Tester feedback from Lee

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“I’m a sucker for a good sensorial moment, and this texture is so pillowy and weightless it practically feels like you’re smoothing on a cloud. The subtle scent is luxe without being overpowering for daily use, and even with added fragrance, my sensitive, redness-prone skin isn’t bothered. After a few weeks, I’ve noticed my skin looks more even, and its non-greasy texture layers nicely under makeup.” —Christa Joanna Lee, contributing commerce writer

More to know

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• Key ingredients: SafflowerRED, ginseng root extract, ziziphus jujuba fruit extract, caffeine
• Fragrance-free: no

Best Firming: Neocutis BioSerum Firm

Neocutis

BioSerum Firm

$290

Amazon

$290

Dermstore

Why we love it: Nashville-based board-certified dermatologist Natalie M. Curcio, MD, is a fan of the Neocutis BioSerum Firm, which works as both a daytime and nighttime moisturizer. The formula combines growth factors and peptides for softer-looking fine lines and wrinkles, she says. P.S.: The growth factors are derived from cultured cells—no actual human tissue is involved. The brand says you’ll start seeing a difference in six days to keep antsiness at a minimum. If you prefer a richer formula or have really dry skin, consider Neocutis's BioCream Firme Riche. "The formulation has been shown to improve collagen and elastin production in as little as 14 days," says San Diego-based board-certified dermatologist Melanie Palm, MD.

More to know

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• Key ingredients: human growth factors, peptides, sodium hyaluronate
• Who it’s for: everyone
• Fragrance-free: yes

Best for Lax Skin: Isdin Isdinceutics Age Contour Night Face Moisturizer

Isdin

Isdinceutics Age Contour Night Face Moisturizer

$145

Amazon

$145

Dermstore

Why we love it: Packed with wrinkle smoothers like carnosine (a dipeptide naturally found in the body that declines with age) and niacinamide, the Isdin Isdinceutics Age Contour Night Face Moisturizer has won over Ava Shamban, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in Los Angeles. The formula also has hyaluronic acid, which binds water to the skin cells, maintains the structural integrity of the skin's tissues, and stimulates collagen production, boosting thickness and firmness. When considering the "plumping" effect of hyaluronic acid in this nighttime moisturizer, Dr. Shamban says to think about the volume difference between a dry sponge and a wet sponge. "When wet, the sponge expands to occupy more space, giving a plumping effect," she says. The brand is known for adding melatonin to its products, which serves as an antioxidant to offset the effects of free radicals throughout the day.

More to know

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• Key ingredients: melatonin, hyaluronic acid, carnosine
• Fragrance-free: yes

Best for Expression Lines: Revision Skincare Revox 7

Revision Skincare

Revox 7

$150

Dermstore

Why we love it: Want your skin care to work smarter, not harder? Try Revision Skincare’s Revox 7, which Rachel Nazarian, MD, a board-certified dermatologist at Schweiger Dermatology in New York City, calls "a fantastic product to help with wrinkles because it goes straight to the source." The cocktail of seven peptides targets the wrinkle-causing muscles to smooth out seven different expression lines.. Plus, she says, "It can be applied with your own moisturizer or under makeup twice a day."

For a targeted treatment, derms also love the Revision Skincare Revox Line Relaxer, which is a mainstay for board-certified dermatologist Ope Ofodile, MD, who previously shared her skin-care routine with Allure.

More to know

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• Key ingredients: peptides, gamma-aminobutyric acid
• Fragrance-free: yes

Best Drugstore: Olay Regenerist Micro-Sculpting Cream

Olay

Regenerist Micro-Sculpting Cream

$27 $20 (26% off)

Amazon

$25

Walmart

Why we love it: Chances are you’ve seen—or maybe even finished—this iconic red jar; in that case, consider this your reminder to grab a refill. Olay Regenerist Micro-Sculpting Cream has earned a loyal following (plus three Allure Readers’ Choice Awards) for visibly firming, lifting, and smoothing skin without a luxury price tag. “It has a published peer-reviewed study that showed improvement in skin quality comparable to a retinoid,” Heather Woolery-Lloyd, MD, a board-certified dermatologist in Miami, previously told Allure. A combo of amino-peptides, niacinamide, and hyaluronic acid that plumps skin with moisture while helping soften the look of fine lines over time. It feels rich and cushiony going on, sinks in quickly for all skin types, and leaves your complexion bouncy and hydrated.

Tester feedback from former deputy beauty director Elizabeth Siegel

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“My new lines are less noticeable, and the deeper wrinkles I've had for years are looking a little better. The redness I'm prone to on my cheeks, nose, and forehead is way (way, way) better, too.” —Elizabeth Siegel, former deputy beauty director

More to know

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• Key ingredients: peptides, niacinamide, hyaluronic acid
• Fragrance-free: no

Frequently Asked Questions

What causes skin aging?

As we age, our skin experiences two forms of aging: extrinsic aging (which refers to external or environmental causes of aging like pollution, smoke, and, most commonly, sun exposure) and intrinsic aging (or chronological aging, a genetically determined process that leads to loss of collagen and elastin in the skin). "Both types of aging lead to wrinkles, sagging, and other signs of maturity," says Dr. Curcio.

When will I start seeing results from wrinkle creams?

You won't see results from any skin product overnight, so your expectations have to be realistic. "If you are looking for benefits, including the improvement in skin tone, texture, redness, and reduction in fine lines and wrinkles, it usually takes eight to 12 weeks of twice-daily application with a moisturizer to see results," says Dr. Curcio. In other words, patience is a virtue. And, the earlier you start using wrinkle cream, the better. "Used early and consistently, a wrinkle cream can reduce the appearance of many of the fine lines and wrinkles we see developing in our 30s that become more permanent in our 40s and 50s," says Dr. Shamban. Final PSA: Even the best wrinkle cream is only half the equation—you need a daily sunscreen with at least SPF 30 if you want those results to actually stick.

What in-office treatments target wrinkles?

If you're looking for a more intensive method of minimizing wrinkles, Patricia Oyetakin, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in Ontario, Canada recommends combining your topical products with cosmetic procedures like Botox or laser resurfacing. These can promote collagen production on a deeper level than the treatment alone.

Meet the experts

• Peter Bittar, MD, a board-certified dermatologist at Miami Dermatology & Laser Institute based in Miami
• Natalie M. Curcio, MD, is a board-certified dermatologist based in Nashville
• Whitney Hovenic, MD, a board-certified dermatologist and co-founder of Spooge based in Reno, Nevada
• Rachel Nazarian, MD, is a board-certified dermatologist at Schweiger Dermatology based in New York City
• Ope Ofodile, MD, is a board-certified dermatologist based in Atlanta
• Patricia Oyetakin, MD, is a board-certified dermatologist based in Ontario, Canada
• Melanie Palm, MD, is a board-certified dermatologist based in San Diego
• Ava Shamban, MD, is a board-certified dermatologist based in Los Angeles

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 wrinkle 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, which is composed of in-house writers and editors as well as contributors—along with special consideration from board-certified dermatologists of various ages. To learn more information on our reporting and testing processes, read our complete reviews process and methodology page.

Our staff and testers

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

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

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We've only got a few more weeks to wait until Cynthia Erivo, Ariana Grande, and the rest of the crew take us back to Oz for Wicked: For Good, the highly anticipated second installment of last year's Wicked adaptation, but Erivo gave us a little taste of the magic to come with a truly enchanting new manicure.

Erivo attended the annual LACMA Art + Film Gala in Los Angeles in an absolutely stunning, beaded Schiaparelli gown dotted with surrealistic eyes and an ethereal manicure to match, crafted by her frequent collaborator, London-based nail artist Shea Osei. For the glamorous fundraiser, Erivo skipped any trace of Elphaba green in favor of shades of blush and blue. Her signature long nails were painted in a swirly, curvy floral design, beginning with a milky pink base and incorporating frosty shimmer and bright blue tones. On Erivo's thumbs, Osei applied a silvery-blue shade and outlined it with cobalt to define the shape. That same motif carried through to the rest of Erivo's nails, with the pale shimmery blue color taking up more real estate on her pointer and middle fingers. The vivid cobalt color really pops against the white and silver of her dress, adding to the head-to-toe magic.

LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA – NOVEMBER 01: Cynthia Erivo, jewelry and nail detail, attends the 2025 LACMA Art + Film Gala at Los Angeles County Museum of Art on November 01, 2025 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Monica Schipper/FilmMagic)Monica Schipper

Erivo is known for her ornate nail art, and made her love of beautiful nails part of Elphaba's identity in the film too. “We have no tattoos showing anywhere, we had no piercing showing anywhere on anybody, but when Cynthia arrived on the scene she said, straight away, ‘I want to keep my nails,'" Wicked hair and makeup designer Frances Hannon previously told Allure. Osei created all of Elphaba's nail looks for the first Wicked film, crafting dozens of sets of press-on nails so Erivo could easily switch between scenes; as Elphaba became more confident in herself and in her power, her nails evolved right along with her—and that's exactly the kind of beauty-based storytelling we live for!

Wicked: For Good hits theaters on November 21, so you've still got time to book your nail appointment for some Elphaba-approved nail art.

Collage: Paula Balondo; Source images: Courtesy of brands

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All products featured on Allure are independently selected by our editors. However, we may receive compensation from retailers and/or from purchases of products through these links.

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.

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 Allure editors and brands

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All products featured on Allure are independently selected by our editors. However, we may receive compensation from retailers and/or from purchases of products through these links.

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.

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

All products featured on Allure are independently selected by our editors. However, we may receive compensation from retailers and/or from purchases of products through these links.

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.

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All products featured on Allure are independently selected by our editors. However, we may receive compensation from retailers and/or from purchases of products through these links.

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.

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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.

Getty ImagesGetty Images

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.

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

All products featured on Allure are independently selected by our editors. However, we may receive compensation from retailers and/or from purchases of products through these links.

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.

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

All products featured on Allure are independently selected by our editors. However, we may receive compensation from retailers and/or from purchases of products through these links.

The best moisturizing body washes don’t just rinse away dirt and sweat—they also leave your skin feeling softer and more hydrated before you even reach for moisturizer. The right formula transforms your shower into more than just a rinse-off routine: It’s a two-in-one moment of cleansing and care. These aren’t your average suds; they’re loaded with the kind of nourishing ingredients, like shea butter, ceramides, and glycerin, that attract moisture, so you get clean without the tight, squeaky aftermath. And if you have sensitive skin, you’ll appreciate that many of these derm-approved picks skip common irritants like dyes and fragrances, and even carry the National Eczema Association’s seal of approval.

Bottom line: A great moisturizing body wash saves you from that dry, itchy post-shower feeling and makes your skin feel silky and comfortable all day. Here, the editor-approved picks that turn a simple shower into a moisturizing moment.

Our Top Moisturizing Body Washes

• Best Overall: Osea Undaria Algae Body Wash, $32
• Best Scent: Kiehl’s Oil-to-Foam Cleanser, $35
• Best For Body Acne: Nécessaire The Body Wash, $28
• Best for Sensitive Skin: Soft Services Comfort Cleanse Ultra Soothing Shower Gel, $32
• Best Drugstore: Olay Super Serum Body Wash, $13
• Best for Eczema: La Roche-Posay Lipikar AP Moisturizing Body & Face Wash, $20
• Best for Very Dry Skin: L’Occitane Almond Shower Oil, $29
• Best Exfoliating: Beekman 1802 Goat Milk Hand & Body Wash, $22

Frequently Asked QuestionsAccordionItemContainerButtonLargeChevron

• What ingredients should I look for in a moisturizing body wash?
• What should I avoid in a body wash for dry skin?
• Meet the experts
• How we test and review products
• Our staff and testers

Best Overall: Osea Undaria Algae Body Wash

Osea

Undaria Algae Body Wash

$32

Osea

$32

Amazon

$32

Nordstrom

Why we love it: If you’ve tried the Best of Beauty-winning Osea Undaria Body Oil, you’re probably familiar with its delicious-smelling formula and skin-softening powers. Good news: Its sister product, the Undaria Body Wash, offers all the same little luxuries, just in the form of a foaming cleanser. Like the body oil, this body wash is boosted with seaweed, a natural ingredient packed with amino acids and antioxidants that replenish the skin’s moisture barrier. Additionally, glycerin hydrates, plant-based surfactants gently cleanse, creating a light foam that doesn’t strip the skin, and nourishing jojoba and avocado oils leave your skin feeling silky and supple. After use, your skin will feel soft, hydrated, and revitalized.

Tester feedback from commerce editor Sarah Han

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“I won't lie: The scent is the selling point for me. The grapefruit and lime notes feel like a gentle wake-up call and boost my mood every time I use it. The formula itself is so silky and has the perfect amount of slip, and of course, it's filled with moisturizing powerhouses, like the brand's signature undaria seadweed, aloe, glycerin, and jojoba oil that leave my skin feeling as soft as a baby's bum. Once I'm out of the shower and dried off, I follow up with the Hyaluronic Body Serum because it's one of the few nonsticky body-care products my impatient self tolerates. It's the perfect recipe for long-lasting hydration.” —Sarah Han, commerce editor

More to know

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• Key ingredients: seaweed, glycerin, jojoba oil, coconut oil, avocado oil
• Scent: grapefruit, lime, cyprus, mango, mandarin
• Size: 8 fl oz

Best Scent: Kiehl’s Oil-to-Foam Cleanser

Kiehl's

Oil-to-Foam Cleanser

$35

Kiehl's

$35

Ulta Beauty

Why we love it: Plenty of body washes boast “oil-infused” formulas, but this one is an oil at its core—at least until it meets water. The moment it does, it transforms into a fine, cloud-like foam that feels like pure luxury. And the scent seals the deal: a cozy blend of vanilla and almond that lingers softly on skin without overwhelming your senses. With a base of castor and grapeseed oils—both rich in vitamin E and antioxidants—it cleanses while replenishing, leaving your skin velvety and moisturized. It’s basically a two-in-one: cleanser first, body oil second.

Tester feedback from contributing commerce editor Deanna Pai

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"I'm five months pregnant in the middle of winter, so I'm all about oils right now—they're the only thing that keeps the skin on my belly from feeling itchy or dry as it stretches. But a traditional shower oil isn't really my jam, which is why this one is perfect: It builds to a sudsy foam that feels effective but nourishing, has a light herbal scent that feels like a mini-meditation in the morning, and leaves my skin soft and soft. I don't think I'll go back to anything else, even postpartum, especially in the winter months when my skin is thirsty."—Deanna Pai, contributing commerce editor

More to know

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• Key ingredients: grapeseed oil, castor oil
• Scent: vanilla, almond
• Size: 8.4 fl oz

Best for Body Acne: Nécessaire The Body Wash

Nécessaire

The Body Wash

$28

Amazon

$28

Nordstrom

Why we love it: Nécessaire’s The Body Wash is a quiet hero in the acne-fighting category. Alabama-based dermatologist Corey L. Hartman, MD, says this non-comedogenic formula—meaning it won’t clog pores—is ideal for oily or acne-prone skin. It’s also packed with niacinamide, which he says “clears active acne, keeps pores clean, and reduces inflammation.” New York City-based dermatologist Dendy Engelman, MD, is another fan: “I always look for formulas rich in glycerin, niacinamide, and plant oils to deeply hydrate while maintaining skin’s natural pH,” Dr. Engelman says, adding that it cleanses effectively but never leaves skin feeling tight (unlike many other cleansers that help with acne).

Tester feedback from former commerce writer Jen Hussein

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"From the neck down, my skin is pretty finicky (I'm prone to bouts of dry skin and body acne), so I have to be particularly discerning when it comes to body washes. Thankfully, Nécessaire's fits my fussy bill with its hybrid gel-oil formula. It provides the deep cleanse I need to prevent breakouts, but doesn't over-strip my skin." —Jen Hussein, former commerce writer

More to know

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• Key ingredients: niacinamide, glycerin, plant oils
• Scent: fragrance-free
• Size: 16.9 fl oz

Best for Sensitive Skin: Soft Services Comfort Cleanse Ultra Soothing Shower Gel

Soft Services

Comfort Cleanse Ultra Soothing Shower Gel

$32

Sephora

$32

Soft Services

Why we love it: If your skin flares up at the mere thought of showering, the Soft Services Comfort Cleanse Ultra Soothing Shower Gel will put your skin at ease. Made with gentle cleansing agents, it washes away dirt and sweat without stripping, while glycerin locks in moisture long after you dry off. The water-oil texture adds a silky layer of slip, making it perfect for shaving (and for saying goodbye to razor bumps for good).

Tester feedback from designer Briana Rengifo

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“I’m a huge Soft Services girly, and not only because the packaging is always beautiful. This shower gel in particular is so silky and gentle on my skin—I have dry skin all over, but this is good at not stripping away all oils and leaving my skin feeling hydrated. I also love how it can be used as a shaving oil!”—Briana Rengifo, designer

More to know

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• Key ingredients: glycerin
• Scent: fragrance-free
• Size: 10 fl oz

Best Drugstore: Olay Super Serum Body Wash

Olay

Super Serum Body Wash

$13

Amazon

$13

Walmart

Why we love it: If you’re into a rich, creamy body wash that practically melts into your skin, this one’s for you. Olay’s Super Serum Body Wash lathers like a dream, glides over skin without tugging, and leaves you looking and feeling seriously hydrated. The formula packs a ton of hard-hitters like calming niacinamide, exfoliating BHA, brightening vitamin C, soothing vitamin E, and plumping collagen peptides. It’s basically a mini spa in a bottle, and bonus points for the cozy vanilla and soft woody notes that linger long after you get out of the shower. And for $13? A skin-loving steal.

Tester feedback from social media director Kassidy Silva

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"With dry and sensitive skin, I find it so easy to start dreading the winter months. The moment the temperature falls below 70 degrees, I swap out all of my body-care products for an ultra-moisturizing routine that always includes the Olay Super Serum Body Wash. The formula leaves my skin feeling silky smooth and provides the ideal base (hydrated but not sticky) to lather on my heavy-duty moisturizer once I'm out of the shower."—Kassidy Silva, social media director

More to know

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• Key ingredients: niacinamide, BHA, vitamin C, vitamin E, collagen peptides
• Scent: florals, vanilla, wood
• Size: 10 fl oz

Best for Eczema: La Roche-Posay Lipikar AP Moisturizing Body & Face Wash

La Roche-Posay

Lipikar AP Moisturizing Body & Face Wash

$20

Amazon

$20

Dermstore

$22

Ulta Beauty

New York-based dermatologist Jane Yoo, MD, has suffered from eczema for years, but La Roche-Posay’s Lipikar AP Moisturizing Body & Face Wash has been a personal favorite for years. “I used to purchase this in half-gallon bottles and lug it back from City Pharma in Paris for years until it finally came to the States,” she says. As someone who tests new products all the time (sounds familiar), that’s saying a lot. It has lipid-replenishing glycerin and shea butter, anti-inflammatory niacinamide, and the brand’s signature soothing, antioxidant-rich thermal spring water. As far as the formula feels, Dr. Yoo says it has a light, silky touch and is not too heavy, so it doesn’t leave behind any residue. “It’s also fragrance-free and suitable for babies, kids, and adults,” she adds.

Tester feedback from executive beauty director Jenny Bailly

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“The fragrance-free milky gel removes all traces of my (granted, relatively light) makeup while also leaving my skin softer than it was pre-wash. The second ingredient in the formula is glycerin, a humectant that pulls water from the air to keep skin hydrated for hours. It also includes niacinamide to rebuild the skin’s lipid layer and shea butter to soften. A little dab’ll do ya (dime-size for your face, a couple of quarters for your entire body), and you still get just enough foaminess to tell your brain you’re getting clean. This wash started out in my kids’ bathtub—where it soothed rough patches on my eczema-prone son—before it migrated to my own shower and became my go-to.” —Jenny Bailly, executive beauty director

More to know

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• Key ingredients: niacinamide, BHA, vitamin C, vitamin E, collagen peptides
• Scent: florals, vanilla, wood
• Size: 10 fl oz

Best for Very Dry Skin: L’Occitane Almond Shower Oil

L'Occitane

Almond Shower Oil

$29

Nordstrom

$29

Ulta Beauty

$29

Sephora

Why we love it: For very dry skin, Dr. Engelman recommends pairing a hydrating, non-stripping body wash with a shower oil to seal in moisture immediately afterward, as it leaves a hydrating finish on the skin even after you hop out of the shower. “Or, you can opt for a shower oil, like L’Occitane’s Cleansing & Softening Almond Oil, which locks in hydration and prevents water loss.” This editor-beloved oil is made with highly moisturizing grapeseed, sweet almond, and sunflower seed oils that get nice n’ sudsy for a satisfying clean and to leave your skin soft and smooth. If your skin is unbearably dry and in desperate need of a double dose of moisture—or you just don’t have time for the cleanse-then-oil routine—say hello to your new shower power duo.

Tester feedback from commerce writer Lily Wohlner

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“Oil and suds usually don’t go together, but L’Occitane’s Almond Shower Oil proves otherwise. Thick and creamy in the bottle, it transforms into a rich, foamy lather the second it hits water, gliding effortlessly over the skin. It hydrates like an oil without leaving any greasy residue, leaving skin soft, supple, and touchable. Some days, I skip body lotion entirely—it’s that moisturizing. And the almond scent is pure spa vibes with every shower. I can’t get enough!”—Lily Wohlner, commerce writer

More to know

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• Key ingredients: grapeseed oil, sweet almond oil
• Scent: almond, vanilla
• Size: 8.4 fl oz

Best Exfoliating: Beekman 1802 Goat Milk Hand & Body Wash

Beekman 1802

Goat Milk Hand & Body Wash

$22

Amazon

Why we love it: What's goat milk got to do with dry skin? Well, a lot, when it comes to Beekman 1802. Goat milk naturally contains lactic acid, a gentle alpha hydroxy acid that helps whisk away dead cells for smoother, softer skin without irritation. Combined with “glycerin, jojoba seed oil, meadowfoam seed oil, and shea butter, the Goat Milk Hand and Body Wash hydrates the skin, supports the skin barrier, and helps to lock in moisture," says Hadley King, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in New York City. "Honey and aloe vera add additional soothing properties." You can also use this as a hand wash—extra points for versatility.

More to know

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• Key ingredients: glycerin, goat milk, jojoba, meadowfoam seed oil, shea butter
• Scent: fragrance-free
• Size: 12.5 fl oz

Frequently Asked Questions

What ingredients should I look for in a moisturizing body wash?

Cincinnati-based cosmetic chemist Kelly Dobos recommends looking for ingredients that hydrate and support the skin barrier, like niacinamide (a.k.a vitamin B3), key for brightening, boosting ceramide production, and delivering antioxidant benefits. "Niacinamide is an ingredient with numerous advantages; as a cosmetic chemist, I love its versatility in formulations," Dobos says. And don’t forget your ceramides, either. New York City-based dermatologist Joshua Zeichner, MD, previously told Allure that they’re key for filling in the cracks between skin cells and helping skin repair itself. Shea butter, jojoba oil, and algae extracts are also top picks for lasting softness, while hyaluronic acid keeps skin hydrated and clear, adds Dr. Engelman.

Synthetic compounds are also crucial to a good body wash—even the ones you can't pronounce. "Combinations of two to three synthetic surfactants are essential for good cleansing and foaming, and increasing mildness. Cocamidopropyl hydroxysultaine and cocamidopropyl betaine are examples of mild secondary surfactants," says Dobos. "One ingredient that is particularly useful in body wash is guar hydroxypropyltrimonium chloride, a conditioning polymer with many positive charges that make it substantive to dry skin. It can help deposit other ingredients on the skin too," she adds.

What should I avoid in a body wash for dry skin?

While not everyone is sensitive to fragrance in body washes, picking a fragrance-free option minimizes the risk of irritation. "Try to avoid fragrances, cleansers with a high pH, or soap-based cleansers," Dr. King attests. She notes that "soap" doesn't always refer to bar soap, but rather cleansers with a high pH. "Skin has a neutral to slightly acidic pH, so you want cleansers that mimic that and support barrier health, Dr. King explains. “If it has tons of ingredients, ditch it. Keep it simple!" It’s a good idea to avoid harsh, skin-stripping detergents like SLS (sodium lauryl sulfate), which can strip the skin of its natural oils, leading to more dryness.

If you have eczema, avoid formulas that feature acne-targeting ingredients like salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide, Olga Bunimovich, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in Pittsburgh, previously told Allure, as they can be particularly drying and irritating. The safest option, however, if you have acne-prone and very dry skin, is to talk to your dermatologist before buying a new body wash.

Meet the experts

• Corey L. Hartman, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in Birmingham, AL
• Dendy Engelman, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in New York City
• Hadley King, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in New York City
• Jane Yoo, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in New York City
• Joshua Zeichner, MD, a board-certified dermatologist and director of cosmetic and clinical research in dermatology at Mount Sinai Hospital in New York City
• Kelly Dobos, a cosmetic chemist based in Cincinnati
• Olga Bunimovich, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in Pittsburgh

How we test and review products

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

For our list of the best body washes for dry skin, we considered each product's performance across five primary categories: product ingredients and efficacy, packaging, fragrance (or lack thereof), texture, and product wear. Every product was determined to have excelled in each category by our editorial team, which is composed of in-house writers and editors as well as contributors—along with special consideration from board-certified dermatologists. To learn more information on our reporting and testing processes, read our complete reviews process and methodology page.

Our staff and testers

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

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

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Simone Biles is opening up about the plastic surgery procedures she's had done.

In a recent “Get un-ready with me” video posted to TikTok, the Olympian played a trivia game with her followers as she got ready for bed, sharing fun facts about herself and touching on a variety of topics—including plastic surgery.

“I've had three plastic surgeries and two of them you would never be able to tell," she said in the video “Guess!” Followers shared their thoughts in the comments, and Biles then spilled the beans about which three procedures she'd had done: a cherry emoji, likely to reference breast implants; a lower blepharoplasty “because I had THE WORST eye bags”; and an earlobe procedure after an earring was ripped from her ear when she was younger. Ouch! (She also shared that she's allergic to "most lip glosses" but hasn't figured out which ingredient irritates her skin.)

A lower blepharoplasty is a procedure used to de-puff and tighten skin under the eyes. In the past, candidates were typically older people dealing with loose, sagging skin and undereye bags, as Allure reported earlier this year, it's becoming more popular with patients in their 20s and 30s who want a more permanent solution to puffiness, which is often simply genetic or part of their anatomy. A lower bleph can be performed as a standalone surgery or combined with other procedures, and the final result is a subtle, smooth, refreshed undereye area.

While Biles has never explicitly confirmed or denied breast implants, she nodded to them again with the cherries emoji in an Instagram Story from mid-October, saying it was the first flip she'd done in a year, adding it was “with new 🍒.”

Biles isn't the only star speaking more openly about getting work done. Kylie Jenner shared her exact breast implant details in a TikTok comment, and Jennifer Lawrence recently said that she's got plans to get her breasts done soon—as in, maybe this month—after having two children. “Everything bounced back, pretty much, after the first one,” she told The New Yorker. “Second one, nothing bounced back.”

Watch Biles's full video below:

TikTok content