Category: NATURAL

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

As hair-obsessed editors, we know gifting a styling tool can feel…risky. With so many gadgets out there, how do you pick the one they’ll actually use? We always lean on Wavytalk, which offers versatile tools that can help you create just about any look imaginable. We’re talking a curling iron with interior plates that can double as a straightener, a five-in-one styler for everything from bouncy blowouts to tight curls, and even a steam-powered straightener that smooths hair faster and leaves it softer. These aren’t one-trick tools—they’re the kind that become someone’s “How did I live without this?” favorite. And honestly, who wouldn’t be thrilled to unwrap a gift from an Allure Best of Beauty–winning brand? We’ve tried nearly every Wavytalk tool and rounded up our all-time favorites—guaranteed to earn you the title of this season’s ultimate gifter.

Our Top Wavytalk Gifts

• Best Overall: Wavytalk Blowout Boost, $60 $47
• Best Multistyler: Wavytalk Multi Curl, $60 $42
• Best Curling Iron: Wavytalk Whirlwind Curl, $69 $47
• Best Flat Iron: Wavytalk Steam Sesh, $80
• Best Straightening Brush: Wavytalk Streamline Pro, $90 $67

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

Best Overall: Wavytalk Blowout Boost

Wavytalk

Thermal Brush

$60 $45 (25% off)

Amazon

$59 $44 (25% off)

Wavytalk

Allure commerce producer Sarah Hoffmann using the Wavytalk Thermal Brush

Sarah Hoffmann

Why we love it: If you’ve spent more than a minute on TikTok lately, you’ve likely seen the Wavytalk Thermal Brush on your feed. Well, we’re here to tell you the hype is actually deserved. We’ve been raving about everything from the minimal passes it takes to straighten hair to its shockingly good price (FYI: It’s on sale constantly). With five heat settings, an LED display, and dual heaters that activate in seconds, it’s the perfect gift for anyone who wants smooth, polished hair. Heads up: It might take a few tries to master adding curls to your strands, but the results are worth it. It even comes with two sectioning clips to make sectioning and styling a tad easier.

We will admit that the Thermal Brush skips the bells and whistles like auto shut-off, but it still styled our testers’ hair in half the time of our normal blow-dryer and round brush combo—and that is worth the simplicity. (Keep in mind it works best on air-dried strands.) Several of our editors with fine hair even called it “wizardry,” thanks to its compact shape and rounded barrel that gets right down to the root for instant volume.

Hoffmann before using the Wavytalk Thermal Brush

Sarah Hoffmann

Hoffmann after using the Wavytalk Thermal Brush

Sarah Hoffmann

Allure news editor Nicola Dall’Asen before and after using the Wavytalk Thermal Brush

Nicola Dall'Asen

Tester feedback from commerce producer Sarah Hoffmann

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"I'll admit there's a bit of a learning curve with this thermal brush, but overall, I'm really happy with how easy it is to mimic the results of a blowout. For my longer layers, wrapping my hair around the brush before gently pulling, while twisting, did the trick for creating a nice curl all the way through. Its curling capabilities for short hair are a bit more limited; however, I found turning the brush towards my face added a nice ‘swoop’ effect. "So if you're in the market for a whole lotta volume up front, it's totally worth the $50.” —Sarah Hoffmann, commerce producer

Tester feedback from senior news editor Nicola Dall’Asen

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“I don’t know what secret magic the Wavytalk Thermal Brush contains, but it’s given me the most voluminous hair I’ve ever had. For context: I have very fine hair that’s also very flat at the top. Lately, I’ve been styling my hair exclusively in wavy blowouts with a round hairbrush and blow-dryer, a technique that gives me lots of texture and volume but often falls flat pretty quickly, even if I flip my head upside-down after and douse my hair with texture and holding sprays. But the first time I used the Wavytalk brush, it delivered similar results but in half the time—and, magically, my results held up through an entire night out in New York City with fewer styling products (just a texture spray and some pomade for flyaways) than I’ve previously been using.” —Nicola Dall’Asen, senior news editor

More to know

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• Heat: up to 420℉
• Weight: 1.2 lbs
• Attachments: 1
• Other items: hair clips

Best Multistyler: Wavytalk Multi Curl

Wavytalk

Multi Styler

$60 $39 (35% off)

Amazon

$59 $44 (25% off)

Wavytalk

Allure senior art director Ingrid Fowler using the Wavytalk Multi Styler

Ingrid Fowler

Why we love it: The Wavytalk Multi Curl—one of our 2025 Best of Beauty winners—earns its spot for one simple reason: It literally does everything. The kit features the blow-dryer brush we love so much, plus four curling barrels of varying shapes and sizes, giving you endless ways to switch up your look, whether you’re after beachy bends, defined spirals, or something in the middle. No matter which ceramic barrel—it offers shine and even heat distribution—you click in, your hair gets that smooth, shiny, just-glossed finish. The interchangeability is seamless, too—you can swap from a soft wave to a tighter curl pattern in seconds. And because Wavytalk knows achieving a great blowout doesn’t always happen at home, the set comes with a velvet travel bag and dual-voltage compatibility, making the entire setup easy to take with you anywhere.

Fowler before using the Wavytalk Multi Styler

Ingrid Fowler

Fowler after using the Wavytalk Multi Styler

Ingrid Fowler

Tester feedback from senior art director Ingrid Fowler

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“With so many multi-tools out there that focus on hair drying, it's nice to find one that focuses solely on curling wands. This kit is wonderful for travel because it's so compact in its tiny carrying bag, the tool feels sturdy, and the five attachments provide you with plenty of different curling options.” —Ingrid Fowler, senior art director

More to know

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• Heat: up to 430 degrees Fahrenheit
• Weight: 1.5 pounds
• Attachments: 5 (0.5” Micro Wand, 0.5” to 1” Tapered Barrel, 1” Bubble Barrel, 1.25” Curling Wand, 1.5” Thermal Brush)
• Other items: gloves, salon hair clips, and flannel bag

Best Curling Iron: Wavytalk Whirlwind Curl

Wavytalk

Whirlwind Curl

$69 $45 (35% off)

Amazon

$69 $67 (3% off)

Wavytalk

Allure commerce editor Sarah Han using the Wavytalk Whirlwind Curl

Sarah Han

Why we love it: Think of the Wavytalk Whirlwind Curl as the perfect hybrid: a curling iron and the cool-shot magic of a blow-dryer in one. 104 air vents deliver three customizable cool-airflow settings while you curl, locking in shape and minimizing heat damage as you go. The extra-long barrel makes it especially great for longer hair, and the curved edges grip each section for smoother, more consistent curls. Another perk? It has flat interior plates, which means you can straighten with it, too (yup, you’re getting two styling tools in one). With five heat settings to choose from, they can easily tailor the temperature to their hair type, whether they have fine and delicate or thick and curly strands.

Han before using the Wavytalk Whirlwind Curl

Sarah Han

Han after using the Wavytalk Whirlwind Curl

Sarah Han

Tester feedback from commerce editor Sarah Han

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“Let me start by saying I’m terrible at styling my hair, so the fact that I’m even here talking about how much I like the Whirlwind Curl speaks volumes. I really liked how there was no second-guessing with the temperature settings—it’s like the 320-degree setting was made for me, since I have thin/fine/bleached hair exactly as described. The standout feature, however, is definitely the cool airflow because—I’m going to be totally real—I can’t be bothered, nor am I dextrous enough, to press a separate cool-shot button after I’ve spent a ton of time doing the whole hot-styling portion. My hair is also notoriously stubborn when it comes to holding a curl, but the next morning (Did I mention I’m also a nighttime shower person?), against all odds, my curls still held! The constant cool airflow also makes it more comfortable to rake my fingers through my curls right after I release the tool—with traditional stylers, my curls are always super hot to the touch (I mean, makes sense!). All in all, if this tool works on me, I think it’ll work on just about anyone.” —Sarah Han, commerce editor

More to know

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• Heat: up to 410 degrees Fahrenheit
• Weight: 0.95 pounds
• Attachments: 1

Best Flat Iron: Wavytalk Steam Sesh

Wavytalk

Steam Sesh

$80 $57 (29% off)

Amazon

$79 $52 (34% off)

Wavytalk

Why we love it: Ever heard of a flatiron that releases steam between its plates to smooth, hydrate, and straighten all at once? Then it’s time to meet the Wavytalk Steam Sesh. This straightener infuses strands with moisture as it works, reducing frizz, boosting shine, and cutting your styling time in half (it’s the hair equivalent of a clothing steamer that instantly relaxes creases). With five adjustable heat settings, you can tailor the temperature to your texture, and the removable comb attachment snaps right in to guide each section for an ultra-sleek finish. To use it, fill the water tank, lock it back into place, and press the steam button before gliding it through your hair. It’s so efficient that just a few passes are all they need for their silkiest strands yet.

More to know

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• Heat: up to 450℉
• Weight: 1.1 lbs
• Attachments: 1
• Other items: water dropper, cleaning brush, scrunchie, hair clips, heat-safe glove

Best Straightening Brush: Wavytalk Streamline Pro

Wavytalk

Streamline Pro

$90 $60 (33% off)

Amazon

$89 $67 (25% off)

Wavytalk

Why we love it: Think of the Streamline Pro as the Steam Sesh’s breezier, brush-style sister. It uses the same hydro-infusion tech (yep, actual steam) but pairs it with ultrasound and circular heating to turn water into evenly heated vapor. The result? A soft, bouncy, and brushed-out look (or loose waves), depending on how you twist and flick the tool. Seven steam nozzles run through the brush head to ensure each section gets an even hit of vapor, and the anti-scald design keeps strands away from direct heat, shielding them from unnecessary damage—especially at higher temps. It also reaches full heat in just 30 seconds. And because the brush covers more surface area with every pass, it works way faster than a traditional straightener. Translation: This tool is perfect for the friend who’s always rushing out the door.

More to know

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• Heat: up to 410℉
• Weight: 1.15 lbs
• Attachments: 1
• Other items: water dropper, cleaning brush, scrunchie, hair clips, heat-safe glove

How we test and review products

We always enlist a range of testers for any review, but hair-care products and tools are another story. While some can be used across different hair textures, lengths, curl patterns, thicknesses, colors (natural and unnatural), and concerns, many are created with specific consumers and their needs in mind. When reviewing tools, we also take into account testers' experience levels. For instance, an innovative new blow-dryer may feature industry-leading technology, but if the only people who find it intuitive to use are professional hairstylists, we have to consider this when determining whether it is worthy of a recommendation.

For our review of the best Wavytalk gifts, we enlisted the help of multiple editors, writers, contributors, and experts you interviewed for the piece—who all have different hair concerns and types, desired outcome (i.e., want shinier hair), and whether one product was tested across multiple hair types (i.e., straight, wavy, and curly hair). Testers considered performance across three primary categories: efficacy, safety and ease of use, value. For more on what's involved in our reporting, check out our complete reviews process and methodology page.

Our staff and testers

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

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

$80 at Kat BurkiSave StorySave this storySave StorySave this story

TL;DR:

• What it is: An antioxidant-packed face cream
• What it does: Hydrates and brightens skin simultaneously
• Who it’s for: Anyone looking for a moisturizer that works overtime to treat dry and/or dehydrated skin and give skin it glowy finish

In the real world (a.k.a. in a corporate setting), I am a project manager. I’m the friendly colleague whose job is to quite literally ensure assignments are completed and projects launch within a certain timeline. Outside of the office, though, all bets are off. Timeline? Never heard of her.

Of course, I’m being a bit hyperbolic, but I am much more lax in my everyday life and tend to rely more on vibes than the actual time. For example, say you were my husband (just go with it) and you told me we have to leave our apartment at 7 p.m. to make our dinner reservation. In my head, that means I’m likely pulling out my skin-care products and makeup around… 6:45 p.m. (Sorry, I can’t change who I am!)

Instead of panicking, I just skin-care smarter. As in, I use a lot of multitasking products to streamline my routine. Lately, I’ve been loving the Kat Burki Vitamin C Intensive Face Cream, which is a lightweight moisturizer with serum-like potency. It’s formulated with hydrating and moisture-locking reishi mushroom, soothing Centella asiatica (cica), and brightening vitamin C (15% of it to be exact!).

I slather on a dollop or two—from my forehead to décolletage—after cleansing and before sunscreen. Although subtle, the cream always leaves behind a fresh, glowy finish. Usually glowy enough to skip highlighter altogether… but that’s just because I never have the time. Oops!

You can find the Kat Burki Vitamin C Intensive Face Cream, along with other editor-loved products, in the November Allure Beauty Box.

Kat Burki Vitamin C Intensive Face Cream

$80 at Kat Burki$80 at Kat Burki

Christa LeeSave StorySave this storySave StorySave this story

Even if you barely dabble in beauty, odds are something from Lancôme has lived on your vanity at one point or another—maybe that instantly recognizable blue bottle of eye makeup remover your mom swore by, a delightfully shiny Juicy Tube you may have hoarded in middle school (as a millennial, I practically squealed when it made its glossy comeback), or the waterproof mascara that gives the entire Allure office the fluttery, lifted lashes of our dreams. Lancôme has always been an iconic brand that’s found that sweet spot between classic and current, offering elegant formulas and sensorial textures that nail it from the very first swipe.

So, it’s no surprise that when the brand launched Rénergie H.C.F. Triple Serum, a 2024 Best of Beauty Award winner, it immediately stood out from the crowd. By housing three potent face serums in one bottle, it tackles several of the biggest aging-skin concerns at once: hydration loss, dark spots, fine lines, and overall firmness. “H.C.F.” stands for hyaluronic acid, vitamin C and niacinamide, and ferulic acid, which are some of the most tried-and-true ingredients when it comes to proven actives. But to make things even more effective, each serum actually lives in its own chamber, staying stable and preserved until the moment you pump them out. (More on that very cool bit of engineering in a bit.)

Lancôme

Rénergie H.C.F. Triple Serum

$150 $90 (40% off)

Amazon

$150

Nordstrom

$150

Lancôme

Allure contributing commerce writer Christa Joanna Lee applying the Lancôme Rénergie H.C.F. Triple Serum

Christa Joanna Lee

After hearing so much buzz about the triple-chamber system and the claims around plumping, brightening, and smoothing, I decided to put this multitasker to the test. Here’s everything that happened during my four-week experience with the serum, and why it has a strong shot at becoming one of those rare beauty products you actually finish.

My Skin Goals

I have sensitive skin that’s unpredictably reactive to ingredients. Plus, postpartum melasma has also been an ongoing project. I see the biggest improvement with prescription tretinoin, but since it’s only recommended for short stretches (and definitely not during summer, thanks to the sun sensitivity), I rely heavily on gentler brighteners like niacinamide and vitamin C to keep my skin looking even-ish and less dull. And because dryness shows up first as fine lines under my eyes and across my cheeks, I’m always reaching for formulas that hydrate deeply without upsetting my barrier. Seeing that this serum promised hydration, brightening, and antioxidant support—without being aggressive—felt like it checked every box my sensitive skin has right now.

First Impressions

Here’s a humbling moment for someone who tests beauty products for a living: I didn’t read the directions. You’re meant to hold the bottle horizontally and pump until all three chambers kick in together. Once I did that (after a few priming pumps), the serum released exactly as it should with three pretty little ribbons of different textures and tones.

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

Christa Joanna Lee

And it’s in those varying textures and tones where the sensorial fun begins. One texture is more gel-like, another feels like an emulsion, and the third is more like a cream. When you blend them, they melt into a lightweight fluid that glides across skin without pilling or feeling heavy. There’s also a lovely scent that is soft and understated, with a slightly floral touch from extracts such as limonene, geraniol, and citronellol. It’s elegant and doesn’t overpower—just enough to make the routine feel a little luxurious.

The Formula

To the uninitiated, the whole “triple-chamber delivery system” might sound like one of those bells-and-whistles features that brands add just to make a product feel high-tech—and expensive. But there’s actually a real purpose behind it. Each chamber isolates a different set of actives that would otherwise destabilize, oxidize, or lose strength if mixed together in a standard bottle. In other words, the packaging isn’t a flashy extra; it’s the mechanism that keeps the ingredients fresh, potent, and able to perform the way they’re meant to.

So what’s happening inside each chamber (and why does it matter)? For starters, one chamber houses hyaluronic acid, “which is a powerful humectant that attracts and retains up to 1,000 times its weight in water,” says Debra Luftman, MD, a board-certified dermatologist in Calabasas, California. Widely known for its hydration abilities, “it plumps the skin, smoothing the appearance of fine lines,” she says.

Another chamber houses the vitamin C and niacinamide complex. Vitamin C wears many hats: the brightener, the collagen supporter, the dark spot fader, and the environmental shield. “It protects against damage and promotes firmness over time,” says Dr. Luftman. It’s paired in the same chamber with niacinamide, which steps in as the buffer and the barrier-builder, helping calm redness, refine pores, ease inflammation, and support even tone, especially helpful for sensitive skin types like mine. Together, the two create this subtle but steady brightening-and-smoothing effect that still feels gentle.

Lee holding a bottle of Lancôme’s Rénergie H.C.F. Triple Serum

Christa Joanna Lee

And then there’s the ferulic acid chamber, which helps stabilize and supercharge other antioxidants, such as vitamin C. On its own, though, ferulic acid “helps prevent photoaging by neutralizing environmental aggressors and promoting firmer, more luminous skin,” adds Anetta Reszko, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in New York. Ferulic acid is notoriously unstable when mixed with water, which is why Lancôme keeps it in its own water-free chamber until right before it’s applied to your skin.

Put simply, each chamber keeps its ingredients at their best, and they only meet right before you apply—kind of like mixing a fresh batch straight from the lab every time.

How It Fits Into My Routine

If a low-lift routine is your love language, this serum fits right in. Two to three pumps gave me the perfect dose every time, and it layered effortlessly under moisturizer and SPF. Some mornings, I found it hydrating enough to stand on its own; at night, it settled beautifully under my heavier creams without pilling or feeling too heavy.

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

Christa Joanna Lee

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

Christa Joanna Lee

The Results

I used Rénergie H.C.F. Triple Serum twice a day for a month, and the results just kept stacking up. Almost right away, the hit of hydration made the fine lines under my eyes and along my cheeks look softer and a little less etched-in. As the weeks went on, I also started to notice a gentle brightening effect that made my complexion look more even overall.

But for me, the biggest win here is the convenience. It genuinely feels like getting three serums in one step: a hyaluronic acid hydrator, a vitamin C brightener, and a ferulic acid antioxidant, minus the mental gymnastics of figuring out what to layer when or whether different actives will irritate my skin. As a busy mom who appreciates a hard-working multitasker, this is one of the most thoughtful serums I’ve tried in ages. And after a month with it, it makes sense how Lancôme spent over three years fine-tuning the formula and the packaging—the results just keep getting better.

Lancôme

Rénergie H.C.F. Triple Serum

$150 $90 (40% off)

Amazon

$150

Nordstrom

$150

Lancôme

Meet the experts

• Debra Luftman, MD, a board-certified dermatologist of Schweiger Dermatology in Calabasas, California
• Anetta Reszko, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in New York

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

We can’t believe it’s already holiday shopping season, but we’re not complaining—especially when Ulta Beauty is coming in hot with early Black Friday deals that have our carts overflowing. Known for its unbeatable selection and generous sales, Ulta Beauty is delivering the goods this year with up to 50% off on brands like BaBylissPro, Nest, Smashbox, Drybar, and so much more.

Each week for the past month, new products have hit the sale, but this is the last week of discounts. So, what are you waiting for? Keep scrolling to shop the best early Ulta Beauty Black Friday deals that’ll make you and your loved ones even more joyful this year (before they’re gone!).

Our Top Ulta Beauty Early Black Friday Deals

Block It Like It’s HotNaked Sundays Mineral Priming Sunscreen SPF 50+ Lotion with CollagenJUMP TO PRODUCT$25 $18 (28% off)

Ulta Beauty

Iron OutBabylissPRO Nano Titanium Prima Styling IronJUMP TO PRODUCT$240 $168 (30% off)

Ulta Beauty

Your Blowout’s BestieBumble and Bumble Thickening Blow-Dry Prep SprayJUMP TO PRODUCT$36 $18 (50% off)

Ulta Beauty

The Best Ulta Beauty Early Black Friday Skin-Care Deals

At Allure, we’re all about products that do more with less—and Ulta’s early Black Friday sale is full of them. This week, sun protection has the spotlight. Take Naked Sundays Mineral Priming Sunscreen SPF 50+ Lotion with Collagen, which is a makeup primer and SPF in one. Or, reach for Black Girl Sunscreen Moisturizing Sunscreen Lotion SPF 30, a formula made for melanated skin that hydrates and protects without leaving a white cast.

Naked Sundays

Mineral Priming Sunscreen SPF 50+ Lotion with Collagen

$25 $18 (28% off)

Ulta Beauty

Black Girl Sunscreen

Moisturizing Sunscreen Lotion SPF 30

$16 $11 (31% off)

Ulta Beauty

Black Girl Sunscreen

Make It Pop Sungloss Shades for Lips SPF 50

$14 $10 (29% off)

Ulta Beauty

Nudestix

Nudeskin 5% Citrus Fruit & Glycolic Glow Toner

$30 $21 (30% off)

Ulta Beauty

The Best Early Ulta Beauty Black Friday Makeup Deals

If you’re in the market for new makeup, might we suggest Smashbox’s Always Sharp Longwear Waterproof Kôhl Eyeliner Pencil? Or the House of Lashes Iconic Full Volume Faux Mink False Eyelashes will completely glam-ify your eyes for a night out on the town.

Ilia

Liquid Powder Chromatic Eye Tint

$28 $20 (29% off)

Ulta Beauty

Smashbox

Always Sharp Longwear Waterproof Kôhl Eyeliner Pencil

$27 $19 (30% off)

Ulta Beauty

Wyn Beauty

Featuring You Hydrating Skin Enhancing Tint SPF 30

$29 $7 (76% off)

Ulta Beauty

House of Lashes

Iconic Full Volume Faux Mink False Eyelashes

$12 $8 (33% off)

Ulta Beauty

The Best Ulta Beauty Early Black Friday Hair-Care Deals

Our editors have tested just about every hair product out there—from treatments for damaged hair to heat protectant sprays—and some of our all-time favorites are currently marked down. We suggest snagging them fast, as they’re way too good to stay in stock until Black Friday.

BabylissPRO

Nano Titanium Prima Styling Iron

$240 $168 (30% off)

Ulta Beauty

Bumble and Bumble

Thickening Blow-Dry Prep Spray

$36 $18 (50% off)

Ulta Beauty

Drybar

The Roller Club Curling Hot Rollers

$129 $65 (50% off)

Ulta Beauty

CHI

Round 3-In-1 Blowout Brush Dryer

$100 $70 (30% off)

Ulta Beauty

The Best Ulta Beauty Early Black Friday Fragrance Deals

Fragrance is all about self-expression, which makes finding the one a tricky task. Luckily, Ulta makes the process easier with stunning scents at unbeatable prices. Head into fall with an eau de parfum that lingers all day.

Billie Eilish

No. 2 Eau de Parfum

$78 $55 (29% off)

Ulta Beauty

Snif

Extra Whip Body Mist

$22 $15 (32% off)

Ulta Beauty

Nest New York

Santa Barbara Strawberry Body Mist

$39 $27 (31% off)

Ulta Beauty

Lake & Skye

222 Cosmic Coco + Musk Hair & Body Mist

$32 $22 (31% off)

Ulta Beauty

Photography by Hannah KhymychSave StorySave this storySave StorySave this story

These days, it’s rare to write about plastic surgery without mentioning fat. We’re either losing it (courtesy of GLP-1s), removing it (via liposuction, the top-ranking surgical procedure last year), reusing it (to plump and contour), or, not uncommonly, doing all three in succession—a sort of carefully orchestrated fat shuffle.

Now, plastic surgeons are experimenting with a first-of-its-kind body filler derived from—guess what—fat. Donated human fat, to be exact, which has been procured from cadavers and meticulously processed into a thick injectable called Alloclae. Donor tissue—which includes everything from skin and cartilage to ligaments and heart valves—is frequently used in all fields of medicine, including aesthetics, but for some patients, the idea of receiving “fat from a dead person is still a little macabre,” says Troy Pittman, MD, a board-certified plastic surgeon with practices in Washington, DC, and New York City.

To secure the donor adipose tissue—aka fat—Tiger Aesthetics, the makers of Alloclae, partners with recovery agencies who “work closely with healthcare providers and family members of donors to review the scope of the deceased individual’s donation,” says a representative for Tiger. Some of you may be morally opposed to (or just totally turned by) the idea of using human parts for cosmetic purposes and will choose to avoid Alloclae just as you might forgo Botox (which contains albumin, a protein in human blood) or exosomes (which are commonly sourced from human cells). But this donated fat can also be considered “a natural alternative [to synthetic fillers and implants],” says Dr. Pittman, explaining that the donor tissues are really acting as a scaffolding for your own fat to grow into. “Once your body incorporates the graft, the fat is going to be more yours than the donor’s.”

This isn’t the first time Allure has reported on Alloclae. Back in January, before the product officially launched, I included it in a story about the fat-stimulating shot Renuva. Alloclae isn’t a Renuva knockoff, however. It falls into a separate category all its own. What makes it unique and “potentially groundbreaking,” says Darren Smith, MD, a board-certified plastic surgeon in New York City, is the inclusion of intact, nonliving donor fat cells (and their naturally occurring growth factors), which impart instant volume. Supporting the fat cells in the formula is a proprietary stew of extracellular matrix proteins. These collagens, elastins, and glycoproteins help the donor cells integrate into the body’s own tissue while encouraging innate fat cells and blood vessels to bloom in the area. Renuva, if you recall, is fat cell-free and composed solely of fat-adjacent proteins, which recruit the body’s own fat cells over time.

Designed specifically for the body (the consistency isn’t smooth and fluid enough for the face), Alloclae essentially provides a fat transfer—natural, long-lasting volume—without the hassle, anesthesia, expense, and downtime associated with liposuction. Lipo has forever been a prerequisite for fat grafting—surgeons have to harvest fat from the belly, love handles, thighs, or other areas of excess before processing it and reinjecting it into the body—but it unequivocally adds to the cost and recovery of the procedure and presents its own set of risks, namely contour irregularities (lumps, dents, ripples, and otherwise uneven results). Plus, the thinnest of patients—who are increasing in number with the popularity of GLP-1s—aren’t suitable candidates for liposuction (and therefore fat transfer), since they don’t have much fat to spare. Alloclae not only offers a workaround for these people, but also allows for a non-surgical—and potentially less expensive—fat grafting experience for everyone who might want one. Board-certified plastic surgeon Ashley Gordon, MD, tells me that in her Austin, Texas practice, patients currently pay between $5,000 and $7,000 for 25 ccs of Alloclae, which is enough to “feather in the cleavage” for a modest boost or to hide the edges of breast implants, which can show through the skin of slender patients. Fat grafting done for the same purpose would cost $10,000 or more, because of the time and anesthesia involved with the lipo.

The Science and Safety of Alloclae

“Is it FDA approved?” This is generally the first question we’d urge you to ask about any product you might put in your body. But human tissue-derived materials aren’t vetted in the same way as drugs (like botulinum toxins) and devices (fillers and breast implants). As with Renuva, the FDA regulates Alloclae as a human cell, tissue, and cellular and tissue-based product (HCT/P), which means that while it must meet certain requirements—related to minimizing the risk of disease transmission as well as contamination during manufacturing, for instance—it doesn’t technically have to be “approved” or “cleared” by the FDA, per the agency’s web site.

The Center for Biologics Evaluation and Research, a branch of the FDA, governs these materials, ensuring they meet stringent requirements for safety and sterility. Donors must be thoroughly screened and tested to protect against infectious diseases and microorganisms, for example. (Before gifting any tissues, Alloclae donors “go through an aggressive screening process after they’ve passed away,” explains Sachin M. Shridharani, MD, a board-certified plastic surgeon in New York City and clinical trial investigator for Alloclae.) Additionally, donated tissues must be cleaned and processed in accordance with specific protocols to remove possible contaminants and reduce DNA and other cell components that could provoke an immune reaction or all-out rejection of the fat. “We know that you need to have less than a certain amount of DNA per volume in order to be safe,” notes Dr. Smith, “Alloclae is well below that established standard.”

While FDA requirements for tissue-based products are stringent, the FDA doesn’t demand the same caliber of clinical data—meaning long-term studies on large numbers of real people—as it does when evaluating drugs. When Allure reached out to the FDA for comment on the regulation of Alloclae, a representative for the organization stated that, “The limited information provided on ‘Alloclae’ is not sufficient for us to determine how ‘Alloclae’ is appropriately regulated.”

The published data that currently exists on Alloclae is what’s known as basic science literature—studies involving human cells and mouse models—which essentially shows that the composition of the donor tissue resembles that of native human fat and confirms that any potentially triggering DNA materials have been minimized. The studies also demonstrate that the product does, indeed, integrate into surrounding tissue and promote the growth of new fat cells and blood vessels for a limited time after injection.

When performing a lower body lift on a woman who’d previously had Alloclae injected in the same area, Kamakshi R. Zeidler, MD, a board-certified plastic surgeon in Campbell, California, had the rare experience of seeing the product in the body, three months after it was placed. (Dr. Zeidler is a clinical study investigator for Alloclae.) The Alloclae appeared to be “very well accepted [by her tissues] and it was remarkably soft,” she says.

As for studies involving actual patients, the company says they are “presently supporting five clinical study sites in the U.S. that are treating approximately 50 patients” and that “the study is focused on the application of Alloclae in the hips, more specifically when Alloclae is used to improve the appearance of hip dips.” (These are slight indentations that some people have between their hips and thighs.) While the company does not have results to share at this time, they can say that “several hundred patients have received Alloclae so far this year in both the hip and breast areas and we have received a lot of positive feedback.”

Before (left) and after using Alloclae to correct a “hip dip.” Courtesy of Dr. Darren Smith.

Some doctors have reservations about injecting Alloclae into the breasts specifically, given its relatively short track record. Steven Teitelbaum, MD, a board-certified plastic surgeon in Santa Monica, doesn’t currently stock Alloclae, but says he would consider using it to camouflage divots on the body if he ever encountered patients with this problem. When it comes to the breasts, however, “I’m just very cautious,” he says. “Before trying it out on my patients, I’d want to know more about how it does in the breast: How long does it last? What happens when it dissolves? What are the chances of mammographic changes and palpable irregularities? Is there a way to remove it if it doesn’t look right? I don’t think we can definitely answer these basic questions yet.”

While the uncertainty and lack of human clinical trial data is a sticking point for some, a number of plastic surgeons have adopted the product over the past year, injecting it into patients’ breasts, butts, and hip dips to lend modest volume and round out curves in a conservative—I repeat: conservative—fashion. This is not a means to a massive rear end. “It’s intended for really elegant contouring,” says Dr. Shridharani. He’s also used Alloclae to remedy “devastating deformities” caused by aggressive energy-assisted liposuction. “I see this all the time—thin patients with contour irregularities from liposuction gone awry,” he says. Most “weren’t really lipo candidates, but their surgeons… took a shot at it, piecemealing together what they thought would be enough fat to give a good outcome.”

Before (left) and after correction of liposuction contour deformity (from another surgeon) using Alloclae. Courtesy of Dr. Darren Smith.

When discussing risks with Alloclae patients, plastic surgeons tend to follow a similar script to the one they use for other fat-grafting patients, says Dr. Gordon. In addition to expected side effects, like bruising, swelling, and soreness, possible complications include bleeding, infection, palpable lumps, fat necrosis [tissue death], oil cysts, and underwhelming results. Some surgeons argue that necrosis and cysts may be less of a risk with Alloclae than with a patient’s own fat, since Alloclae doesn’t contain living cells with the potential to die and cause those problems.

A Non-Surgical, Implant-Free Breast Augmentation

In some practices, Alloclae is proving to be a viable alternative to implants. “We see so many women wanting a modest breast enhancement without implants,” says Dr. Pittman—a wish that has historically been granted with fat grafting. But with 75% of these patients, he says, “I can tell within a minute of meeting them that they’re not a candidate for fat transfer, because they’re already very thin.” Before Alloclae, a surgeon in this scenario had two choices: Turn the patient away or attempt to liposuction multiple areas—arms, back, thighs, tummy—and risk traumatizing those body parts in order to get enough fat to make a significant difference. But with Alloclae as an option, “we don’t have to do all that liposuction, we don’t need to use general anesthesia, and we can get a meaningful boost in volume,” says Dr. Zeidler. “We can do Alloclae in the office, under local, and you can drive yourself home after.”

Surgeons inject Alloclae as they would fat, evenly distributing small droplets with a blunt-tip cannula. “I numb the insertion site, and once the cannula is in, the patient may feel pressure, and every once in a while a little zing, but they don’t feel pain,” says Dr. Pittman. When treating the breasts, Dr. Shridharani says he typically makes two two-millimeter incisions (as cannula entry points), one in the breast fold and another at the outer rim of the areola.

The first time Dr. Zeidler used Alloclae, she was treating a woman who’d had a “pretty aggressive explant [breast implant removal] surgery” (done elsewhere) that left her with a flat chest. They started with two rounds of fat transfer, after which the patient desired more volume, but wasn’t up for another round of lipo. She then tried Alloclae and “saw such a meaningful difference from just 50 ccs, which is a much smaller amount than I ever did with fat transfer,” Dr. Zeidler says. Three months later, they did another round of Alloclae and the patient was “ecstatic” with her results. She’s now planning a third session, Dr. Zeidler says, “to get to a nice full C cup.”

Before (left) and after using Alloclae to make breasts appear fuller. Courtesy of Dr. Kamakshi R. Zeidler.

The size increase achievable with Alloclae depends largely on breast anatomy—in particular, the elasticity of the tissues. When the breasts are very tight, they may not be able to accommodate more than 50 ccs each in a single round, says Dr. Zeidler. But “that’s usually enough to give at least a half-cup boost in volume.” Some women don’t care about bra size so much as “filling out bathing suits,” she adds, and 50 ccs (or even less) of Alloclae can lend nice shape to the tops of the breast to enhance cleavage (though not as effectively as an implant). When patients have bigger breasts or more laxity of their tissues—and, thus, more space to fill—Dr. Zeidler says she can add up to 150 ccs of Alloclae per side for “more than a cup-size increase.” She likes to err on the conservative side, since this is a non-surgical procedure and it’s usually easy enough for patients to come back for a little bit more if needed.

Like Dr. Zeidler, Dr. Shridharani says he can deliver one to two cup sizes with Alloclae, but getting there might require a couple of sessions, a few months apart. It’s important to gradually build volume based on what an individual breast can reasonably hold. The other surgeons I spoke to are, for now, using Alloclae more sparingly in the breasts—25 to 50 ccs per side—usually in conjunction with implants (to veil visible edges or rippling) or after removing implants “to fill out the concavity at the tops of the breasts,” says Dr. Gordon, who’s an advisor to the brand. Wherever Alloclae is used, “it’s important to go slow and be really careful, because this is human tissue,” she says. “It’s not just like a hyaluronic acid filler that we can dissolve with a shot of enzyme.”

Before (left) and after using Alloclae to enhance the breasts. Courtesy of Dr. Sachin M. Shridharani.

Dr. Shridharani is also seeing “a huge demand” for Alloclae in patients who previously had breast reductions or lifts, and then went on GLP-1s, lost 20 to 30 pounds, and saw their breasts shrink. Assuming their skin quality is still good, and their tissues haven’t stretched, Alloclae can offer a relatively simple solution. (As Allure previously reported, GLP-1 medications are anecdotally linked to impaired collagen production in the skin, primarily because they prompt caloric restriction and nutritional deficiencies.)

I should note that plastic surgeons are somewhat split on the usefulness of Alloclae in GLP-1 patients overall. Dr. Smith says he’s excited to see Alloclae “open up the world of fat transfer to GLP-1 patients who’ve lost volume— maybe not from where they wanted to—and don’t have a lot of fat to donate to the cause.” Likewise, Dr. Shridharani says Alloclae can come in handy in cases where he’d rather not risk creating or exacerbating skin laxity by suctioning what little fat GLP-1 patients have left. Other surgeons see less of a role for Alloclae in this group, especially as a standalone treatment, because these patients often have loose tissue that needs to be tailored and reshaped. In GLP-1 breast patients, “I’m more reliably using implants to create structure,” notes Dr. Zeidler. “ These women generally need breast lifts, as well, to reduce excess skin.” She may use Alloclae after, to fine-tune the results, but it’s not going to save the patient from having surgery, which is ordinarily part of the product’s appeal.

How Alloclae Compares to Implants and Native Fat

The Alloclae aesthetic is distinct from that of breast implants and more akin to that of fat, though not a carbon copy. Implants offer predictable volume—“if we put in a 280 cc implant, we know your breast is going to change by 280 ccs,” says Dr. Pittman—and impart structure, giving the breast a shape to conform to. Fat, on the other hand, is amorphous and creates a more natural effect. Dr. Shridharani explains the difference to patients like this: “Your breast will take on the shape of an implant, be it round or tear-drop, but fat takes on the shape of your breast.” Following fat grafting, “your breast will still look like your breast, only fuller.”

Alloclae falls somewhere in between. Surgeons find it to be thicker and more structural than fat—“it’s giving a lot of lift and shape,” notes Dr. Zeidler—likely due to the way it’s purified and concentrated. When discussing breast augmentation options with patients, Dr. Zeidler puts “soft, fluffy” fat at one end of the spectrum and implants at the other. In the middle is Alloclae: “Compared to fat transfer, Alloclae is providing a more meaningful boost in volume and giving more oomph, cc per cc,” she says. And so far, “it’s looking like the volume we’re putting in is very stable and reliable.”

Dr. Gordon, who’s been using Alloclae for just over a year, says she, too, has found it to be very predictable in terms of long-term gains. “In my experience, the take and retention are really good—like 90% to 100% of what we inject sticks around,” she says. In the first few days after treatment, patients tend to swell. “Some will call me, worried, because it can look bulgy at first, but usually by a week or two, it’s settled down and you can see the correction.”

While studies are being done by the company to quantify Alloclae results at six months and one year, the surgeons I spoke to, who’ve been using it for the past year, have been pleased with the product’s longevity. “It’s almost like what you see on the table is what you get,” says Dr. Shridharani. Since Alloclae can be injected with patients awake, Dr. Shridharani will sometimes have people stand up and look at themselves in the mirror to assess their results. If they like what they see, he might put in a tiny bit more to account for temporary swelling, but otherwise, he says he doesn’t expect the outcome to change very much, because, in his experience, “there’s not a lot of resorption.”

With fat grafting, on the other hand, survival and durability can vary based on myriad factors, including the specific ways in which the fat is collected, handled, processed, and reinjected. In the past, doctors would routinely estimate that about 50% of grafted fat would take. Today, some of the more advanced fat harvesting systems boast retention rates of 75 to 80 percent.

Dr. Pittman, who started using Alloclae in January, says he’s been surprised by how well the product performs, especially compared to fat. “If I were going to graft the upper [portion] of the breast with regular fat, I would need at least 150 ccs of fat for each side, knowing that 50% or 60% may stay and the rest will resorb,” he says. “With Alloclae, I’m using only 50 ccs in each breast to do this, and we don’t see things deflating months later. That’s what’s so phenomenal—the resorption rate seems to be way less than what we see with patients’ own fat.”

At this point, however, Alloclae has been in use for just over a year and “there’s really no data to support what I’m saying here,” Dr. Pittman tells me. “There’s been no real study that I’m aware of looking at overall retention using imaging [to measure volume changes].” He’s very honest with patients about this and careful not to overpromise. “I tell them, fat transfer is unpredictable and we have data,” he says. “Alloclae is unpredictable and we don’t have data.” While anecdotal reports are overwhelmingly positive and Dr. Pittman certainly sees a role for Alloclae, “I’ll feel better when we have published long-term results,” he says. “Something that seems all the rage right now might crash and burn in a year.”

While surgeons can’t conclusively say if Alloclae rivals your own fat, many are cautiously optimistic. Dr. Smith calls the injectable a “super option” for patients who are short on fat, but says he’s still partial to the old-fashioned kind. “All things being equal, I’m going to use native fat every time, simply because it’s living tissue. And with any allogeneic [donor] product, there’s going to be more uncertainty,” he says. Still, other doctors are leaning into Alloclae, especially for small-volume tweaks that may not warrant the heavy-lift of lipo. While I’m reluctant to label anything in the cosmetic realm a “quick fix”—beyond trite, it trivializes medical procedures—Alloclae, some experts insist, could prove to be just that.

Collage: Paula Balondo; Source images: Courtesy of Medik8Save StorySave this storySave StorySave this story

Medik8 might not be a household name—yet—but the best Medik8 products are already staples on top shelves of the skin-care-obsessed crowd. This UK-based brand has quietly captivated dermatologists and beauty editors as “a true clinical, science-backed brand,” says Dendy Engelman, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in New York City. “Their proprietary stabilization technology works wonders in keeping the potency and efficacy of their formulas intact, truly setting them apart in performance.”

Medik8 is best known for its “CSA” philosophy: vitamin C in the morning, SPF daily, and vitamin A at night—but its entire lineup reflects the same thoughtful, research-driven approach. “What also makes them unique is that all formulas are developed and manufactured in-house within their lab, ensuring complete control over quality from research & development (R&D) to packaging,” adds Dr. Engelman. Our experts rave about the brand’s glow-boosting serums and retinoid-infused moisturizers—especially since many of their products deliver visible results in as little as two weeks.

Surprise—all of our favorite Medik8 products are officially on sale! From 11/20 to 12/2, you can save 30% on everything (except travel, kits/bundles, gift cards, and accessories) and score free shipping with orders over $60. Your skin (and wallet) will be very thankful, indeed.

Our Top Medik8 Products

• Best Overall: Crystal Retinal 3, $85 $60
• C the Difference: C-Tetra Advanced Gel-Serum, $72 $50
• Pep in Your Step: Advanced Pro-Collagen+ Peptide Cream, $98 $69
• The Wrinkle Whisperer: Liquid Peptides, $66 $46
• The Fountain of Youth: Liquid Peptides Advanced MP Face Serum, $92 $64
• Glow with the Flow: Press and Glow Toner, $35 $25
• The Clean Sweep: Surface Radiance Cleanse, $27 $19

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

To help you find the best of the best, Allure editors put Medik8’s top products to the test. Here are the glow-getting favorites that truly lived up to the hype.

Our Top Medik8 Product: Crystal Retinal 3

Medik8

Crystal Retinal 3

$85 $60 (29% off)

Medik8

Why we love it: Dr. Engelman says if she could choose only one product from this brand to use forever, it would be Medik8 Crystal Retinal. Unlike retinol, which needs two conversion steps to become active in the skin, retinal (a.k.a. retinaldehyde) needs only one, making it faster and more effective. “Medik8 offers it in six progressive strengths, ranging from 0.01% to 0.24% retinaldehyde, which allows you to gradually build your skin’s tolerance while increasing potency without the typical irritation,” says Dr. Engelman. Level 3 is ideal for beginners with normal skin, delivering visible results with hydration and glow with minimal irritation or flaking. “It’s also formulated with hydrating ingredients like glycerin and hyaluronic acid to buffer any potential irritation, and the texture is creamy and fast-absorbing,” Asmi Berry, DO, a board-certified dermatologist based in LA, previously told Allure.

Allure former content director Kara McGrath applying the Medik8 Crystal Retinal

Kara McGrath

McGrath after applying the Medik8 Crystal Retinal

Kara McGrath

Tester feedback from former content director Kara McGrath

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“I discovered this retinal serum via the Allure Beauty Box, and it instantly became a new favorite. The brand makes it simple to ease into retinal use: You start with level 1 (sensitive) or 3 (beginner), then graduate to higher concentrations once your skin can tolerate them. I haven't experienced any irritation with level 3, a rarity for my sensitive skin.” —Kara McGrath, former content director

More to know

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• Key ingredients: 0.03% retinaldehyde, hyaluronic acid, vitamin E, glycerin
• Who it’s for: retinol beginners
• Fragrance-free: yes

C the Difference: C-Tetra Advanced Gel-Serum

Medik8

C-Tetra Advanced Gel-Serum

$72 $50 (31% off)

Medik8

Why it’s worth it: Many vitamin C serums contain lower percentages or less stable forms of the ingredient, but C-Tetra Advanced Gel-Serum features 20% tetrahexyldecyl ascorbate (THD-ascorbate), which is a super-stable, oil-soluble version of vitamin C that sinks in deeper and doesn’t oxidize as it sits on your vanity. That alone gives it a major edge in the brightness department, but it doesn’t stop there: Phyto exosomes help shuttle soothing, barrier-supporting goodness right to your skin cells, while acetyl zingerone works as a “super antioxidant” to protect your skin from daily stressors. Add in multi-weight hyaluronic acid for instant bounce, and you have a one-stop shop for brighter, more awake-looking skin.

Allure commerce editor Sarah Han applying the Medik8 C-Tetra Advanced Gel-Serum

Sarah Han

Han after applying the Medik8 C-Tetra Advanced Gel-Serum

Sarah Han

Tester feedback from commerce editor Sarah Han

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“I'm going to be super honest: The textures of Medik8's other vitamin C serums are not up my alley. So, when the brand launched a non-oil-based formula, I was grinning from ear to ear. To no one's surprise, my combination skin loves C-Tetra Advanced, a water-based gel-serum that fits into my minimal a.m. routine without drawing attention to my shiny T-zone, and it absorbs so quickly—just the way my rushed morning self likes it. I'm not exclusive with THD, an ultra-stabilized form of vitamin C, but it is my preferred iteration of the brightening ingredient. (If it lessens the chances of irritation, why the heck wouldn't it be?) 20% is a great concentration—not as high as stronger formulations at 30%, but not too low for my not-too-sensitive skin—and I have witnessed some faint sun spots fade as I finished my first bottle. I will say there is a slight smell to it, but it's nothing like the straight-up hot-dog water of other formulas I've tried. As long as the scent dissipates quickly (which it does), this vitamin C is very worth the results and price point. I'm on my second one now, which is impressive given how often I switch skin-care products.” —Sarah Han, commerce editor

More to know

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• Key ingredients: 20% vitamin C, phyto exosomes, acetyl zingerone, hyaluronic acid
• Who it’s for: people with dull skin
• Fragrance-free: yes

Pep in Your Step: Advanced Pro-Collagen+ Peptide Cream

Medik8

Advanced Pro-Collagen+ Peptide Cream

$98 $69 (30% off)

Medik8

Why it’s worth it: Most firming creams lean on hydration to make skin look smoother, but Medik8’s Advanced Pro-Collagen+ Peptide Cream dives into the layers of your skin for a truly regenerative approach by working to activate your skin’s own collagen production rather than just softening lines at the surface. “It’s packed with nourishing ingredients that promote skin health and longevity—including ceramides, proprietary Growth Factor MiniProtein (which helps spark skin’s natural renewal signals), carnosine (to keep collagen more flexible), and an NAD+ Longevity Booster that supports cellular energy, which is essential for maintaining firmness,” says Dr. Engelman. If deep-set wrinkles are your main concern, this formula steps in with the kind of internal support that helps them look smoother and less defined over time.

Allure commerce producer Sarah Hoffmann applying the Medik8 Advanced Pro-Collagen+ Peptide Cream

Sarah Hoffmann

Hoffmann after applying the Medik8 Advanced Pro-Collagen+ Peptide Cream

Sarah Hoffmann

Tester feedback from commerce producer Sarah Hoffman

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“I've been a dedicated user of Medik8's Liquid Peptides Advanced serum for some time now, so I pounced on the Advanced Pro-Collagen+ Peptide Cream when the samples landed in our office. While I don't have noticeable wrinkles—yet—to track progress against, I do notice an overall plumping effect to my skin when consistently using this moisturizer. The finish is really satin-y, absorbs quickly (a through line with Medik8, I'll always award bonus points for speedy applications), and I really feel like my skin texture and tone have never been better.” —Sarah Hoffmann, commerce producer

More to know

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• Key ingredients: carnosine, squalane, shea butter, ceramides, collagen amino acids
• Who it’s for: people with mature, sagging, or dull skin
• Fragrance-free: yes

The Wrinkle Whisperer: Liquid Peptides

Medik8

Liquid Peptides

$66 $46 (30% off)

Medik8

Allure former shopping market editor Angela Trakoshis applying the Medik8 Liquid Peptides

Angela Trakoshis

Why we love it: If you’re new to Medik8, Liquid Peptides is the perfect place to start—especially if softening fine lines and wrinkles is at the top of your skin-care goals, says Dr. Engelman. “It’s gentle enough for all skin types yet highly effective,” she notes. The formula packs over 10 peptides into a concentrated 30% blend to target fine lines, expression lines, and deeper wrinkles. What makes it stand out is its futuristic-sounding delivery system: “It has ‘drone-targeted’ copper peptide technology,” says Dr. Engelman. This is really just a metaphor for a smart delivery vehicle that carries the encapsulated copper peptides exactly where your skin needs them most.

Tester feedback from former shopping market editor Angela Trakoshis

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"This silky, fast-absorbing texture feels weightless yet deeply hydrating on the skin, like a thick moisturizer. It's packed with a 30% peptide complex and hyaluronic acid to instantly plump my skin. No joke, after using this, the bounce my skin has is comparable to a trampoline. Not to mention, it layers like a dream under makeup—no pilling here." —Angela Trakoshis, former shopping market editor

More to know

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• Key ingredients: 30% peptide complex (10 types, including matrixyl 3000 and copper peptides), multi-weight hyaluronic acid, glycerin
• Who it’s for: people with fine lines or wrinkles
• Fragrance-free: yes

The Fountain of Youth: Liquid Peptides Advanced Face Serum

Medik8

Liquid Peptides Advanced Face Serum

$92 $64 (30% off)

Medik8

Han applying Medik8 Liquid Peptides Advanced Face Serum

Sarah Han

Why we love it: If you loved the original, Medik8 Liquid Peptides Advanced is like its overachieving big sister. Dr. Engelman calls it “an exceptional serum designed for all skin types,” and with 13 powerful peptides, it goes all in on softening fine lines and deep wrinkles. A high-tech ingredient called a growth factor miniprotein “activates a key skin regeneration pathway and delivers filler-mimicking results—relaxing expression lines in just 10 minutes and visibly reducing deep wrinkles in eight weeks,” says Dr. Engelman. It also plays well with injectables, helping to extend and enhance your results. Plus, it hydrates deeply without ever feeling tight or sticky.

Tester feedback from Han

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“I may not be the target target audience for this product (I’m only 32), but I’ll be darned if I don’t stave off fine lines (especially those creeping up on my forehead) as much as possible—without, as a personal preference, turning to in-office procedures such as filler and Botox. Liquid Peptides Advanced has a wonderfully lightweight, watery-gel consistency that fits in perfectly with my extensive nighttime routine. I’ll even pair it with retinol for a one-two, texture-smoothing, skin-plumping punch. What follows (my night cream) sinks in quickly, and my face doesn’t feel like I’ve glooped on 10 layers of product (even if I actually have)." — Han, commerce editor

More to know

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• Key ingredients: peptide complex (13 types, including matrixyl 3000 and copper peptides), multi-weight hyaluronic acid, carnosine, growth factor miniprotein
• Who it’s for: people with deep-set wrinkles or expression lines
• Fragrance-free: yes

Glow with the Flow: Press and Glow Toner

Medik8

Press & Glow Daily Exfoliating PHA Tonic

$35 $25 (29% off)

Medik8

Why we love it: At Allure HQ, we’ve long been on a mission to erase the memory of stinging toners from years past, and Medik8 Press & Glow might just be the one to accomplish that. “Press & Glow is a daily exfoliating PHA tonic that gently removes dead surface cells to reveal more radiant skin,” says Dr. Engelman. “Clinical studies showed a 20% improvement in skin glow within just four weeks.” Formulated with gluconolactone (a moisture-retaining polyhydroxy acid or PHA), this gentle yet effective tonic exfoliates without stripping your skin. It’s even suitable for sensitive types, thanks to soothing ingredients like aloe vera, acai, and prickly pear extract, which, as Dr. Engelman notes, “support visible clarity and luminosity.” She also loves it as a makeup prep step: “It enhances the absorption of other products and provides a more even surface for application.”

Allure contributing commerce writer Christa Joanna Lee applying the Medik8 Press and Glow Toner

Christa Joanna Lee

Lee after applying the Medik8 Press and Glow Toner

Christa Joanna Lee

Tester feedback from contributing commerce writer Christa Joanna Lee

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“It’s only recently that I’ve become a toner convert, and this one finally convinced me that toners aren’t the stingy, drying formulas of the past. It feels as gentle as water (don’t worry—it’s definitely not just water) on my dry, sensitive skin. The mild exfoliating acids are cushioned with aloe vera, leaving my skin soft, calm, and refreshingly clean.” —Christa Joanna Lee, commerce writer

More to know

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• Key ingredients: gluconolactone (PHA), prickly pear extract, acai extract, aloe vera
• Who it’s for: people with dull or dry skin
• Fragrance-free: yes

The Clean Sweep: Surface Radiance Cleanse

Medik8

Surface Radiance Cleanse

$27 $19 (30% off)

Medik8

Why we love it: You want your cleanser to sweep off the day at a minimum, but Medik8 Surface Radiance Cleanse goes above and beyond. “It’s an antioxidant-infused formulation with a unique exfoliating AHA/BHA complex that effectively cleanses while minimizing visible signs of aging such as dullness and uneven texture,” says Dr. Engelman. Boosted by glow-boosting ingredients like salicylic acid, glycerin, and mangosteen peel extract, it removes impurities while supporting your skin’s moisture barrier—so you get the deep-clean feel without the post-wash tightness. “I love how the gel transforms into a light foam upon contact with water and delivers a refreshing, citrusy scent,” she says.

Allure senior commerce editor Sarah Felbin applying the Medik8 Surface Radiance Cleanse

Sarah Felbin

Felbin after applying the Medik8 Surface Radiance Cleanse

Sarah Felbin

Tester feedback from senior commerce editor Sarah Felbin

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“I love a good exfoliator—but as someone with super-sensitive skin, I've been burned by products that are too strong in the past. Thankfully, this cleanser is gentle enough to sweep away dirt, oil, and dead skin cells without leaving my face red and irritated. I also love the formula because it's a little thick coming out of the tube, but emulsifies into a light, sudsy foam in just a few seconds (once you add water). If you want to get started exfoliating but are nervous about damaging your skin barrier, I highly recommend starting here.” —Sarah Felbin, senior commerce editor

More to know

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• Key ingredients: l-mandelic acid, l-lactic acid, salicylic acid, glycerin, mangosteen peel extract
• Who it’s for: everyone
• Fragrance-free: yes

Frequently Asked Questions

Meet the experts

• Dendy Engelman, MD, a board-certified dermatologist and Mohs surgeon at Shafer Clinic, based in New York City
• Asmi Berry, DO, a board-certified dermatologist based in LA

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 Medik8 products, we considered each product's performance across five primary categories: product ingredients and efficacy, packaging, fragrance, texture, and product wear. Every product was determined to have excelled in each category by our editorial team, which is composed of in-house writers and editors as well as contributors, along with special consideration from dermatologists. To learn more information on our reporting and testing processes, read our complete reviews process and methodology page involved in our reporting, check out our complete review 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

Finding the best cleansers for mature skin isn't just about getting your face clean—it's about giving your skin the care it needs as it changes over time. With age, skin tends to get drier, less elastic, and a bit duller, thanks to slower cell turnover and a weakening moisture barrier. That's why choosing the right ingredients is so important. "A cleanser with hyaluronic acid or squalane can work wonders by hydrating dry skin and supporting elasticity," says Kristina Collins, MD, a double board-certified dermatologist based in Austin.

If age spots, fine lines, or dullness are your focus, Dr. Collins recommends "looking for a cleanser with niacinamide, vitamin C, or gentle exfoliants to brighten and even out skin tone." Avoiding certain ingredients in cleansers for mature skin is also essential. "Harsh detergents like SLS (sodium lauryl sulfate) can strip the skin of moisture, and avoid potentially drying or irritating ingredients like clay, alcohol, charcoal, and essential oils," says Hadley King, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in New York City.

Our Top Cleansers for Mature Skin

• Best Overall: Tatcha The Rice Wash, $40
• Best for Dryness: SkinMedica HA5 Hydrating Foam Cleanser, $48
• Best Drugstore: La Roche-Posay Toleriane Hydrating Gentle Face Cleanser, $18
• Best for Makeup Removal: Charlotte Tilbury Multi-Miracle Glow Cleansing Balm, $62
• Best for Sensitive Skin: Tata Harper Nourishing Oil Cleanser, $78
• Best Exfoliating: Mara Algae Enzyme Cleansing Oil, $58
• Best for Redness: EltaMD Skin Recovery Amino Acid Foaming Cleanser, $35
• Best for Post-Procedure: Alastin Ultra Calm Cleansing Cream, $52

Frequently Asked QuestionsAccordionItemContainerButtonLargeChevron

• What is the best facial cleanser for mature skin?
• What should an older woman wash her face with?
• What is a good skin-care routine for mature skin?
• How do you double-cleanse mature skin?
• Meet the experts
• How we test and review products
• Our staff and testers

Whether you're into creams, balms, or gels, the right cleanser can do more than just wash your face—it can nourish, refresh, and prep your skin for everything else in your routine, leaving it soft, smooth, and glowing. Without further ado, here are the best cleansers for mature skin.

Best Overall: Tatcha The Rice Wash

Tatcha

The Rice Wash

$40

Amazon

$40

Ulta Beauty

$40

Tatcha

Why we love it: Inspired by the traditional Japanese practice of cleansing with nutrient-rich rice water (komenuka), Tatcha's The Rice Wash takes this age-old ritual to the next level. It's packed with rice powder, a chef's kiss of skin-loving enzymes and vitamins (A, B2, B12, and E) that soften, brighten, and give your skin a plump, healthy glow. "The creamy texture feels incredibly luxurious as it smooths and brightens the skin," says Dr. Collins. But this cleanser goes beyond surface-level results—Okinawa algae and hyaluronic acid strengthen your skin barrier and lock in hydration. That's a major bonus for mature skin, especially since retaining moisture gets more challenging as we age.

Tester feedback from contributing commerce writer Christa Joanna Lee

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“This is one of those cleansers that actually makes you look forward to washing your face. When you first start lathering it up, there’s a teeny bit of grittiness from the rice powder doing its gentle exfoliating thing—but then it instantly melts into the softest, creamiest foam. That said, it didn’t really budge my waterproof eyeliner (I don’t blame it; I wear MAC Liquidlast, and it’s truly bulletproof), so I wouldn’t quite rely on it for full makeup removal. But it’s incredible as a second step to a double-cleanse or a no-makeup day.” —Christa Joanna Lee, contributing commerce writer

More to know

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• Key ingredients: Okinawa algae, hyaluronic acid, rice powder
• Fragrance-free: no

Best for Dryness: SkinMedica HA5 Hydrating Foam Cleanser

SkinMedica

HA5 Hydrating Foam Cleanser

$48

Dermstore

Why we love it: If this little blue bottle looks familiar, it’s because it mirrors the packaging of SkinMedica’s Best of Beauty-winning HA5 Hydra Collagen Replenish + Restore Hydrator. But this foam cleanser is actually the newest addition to the hyaluronic-acid–packed lineup. “With mature skin that’s chronically dry, I always aim for gentle, soap-free cleansers without any harsh abrasives like this one,” says Shannon Humphrey, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in British Columbia, Canada. The HA5 Hydrating Foam Cleanser helps keep your barrier happy and your pH in check, so you’re left with that clean-but-still-hydrated feeling. “This practically sparkles on contact and removes makeup well without stripping, thanks to the help of its Amino Acid Complex. It’s designed to replenish moisture, leaving skin feeling clean, calm, and soft,” says Dr. Humphrey.

Tester feedback from commerce editor Sarah Han

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“There's something extra satisfying about a foam cleanser that feels like you're coddling your skin in a blanket of cloud-like fluff. But that's more impressive about the HA5 Hydrating Foam Cleanser is how kind it is to my normally combo skin, which has become drastically drier with the colder weather. My skin is incredibly soothed and soft—this is the second cleanser I use after an oil-based one—and I'm not surprised, given how the ingredient list is frontloaded with tons of glycerin and hyaluronic acid derivatives.” —Sarah Han, commerce editor

More to know

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• Key ingredients: HA5 Hydra Collagen Complex (hyaluronic acid), amino acid complex, hydrolyzed pea protein
• Fragrance-free: yes

Best Drugstore: La Roche-Posay Toleriane Hydrating Gentle Face Cleanser

La Roche-Posay

Toleriane Hydrating Gentle Face Cleanser

$20

Amazon

$20

Dermstore

$22

Ulta Beauty

Why we love it: When it comes to a minimalist formula that delivers maximal results, La Roche-Posay's Toleriane Hydrating Gentle Face Cleanser stands out as a soothing solution for mature skin prone to sensitivities. "It gently cleanses away dirt, makeup, and impurities without compromising the skin's natural moisture barrier," says Mina Amin, MD, a board-certified dermatologist at California Dermatology Specialists, based in Los Angeles. "Formulated with ceramides, glycerin, and niacinamide, it hydrates while soothing the skin. Glycerin acts as a humectant to draw in moisture, while niacinamide is particularly unique—it not only helps restore the skin's barrier but also fades dark marks and calms irritation." What else? The brand's signature prebiotic thermal spring water is rich in selenium, a powerful natural antioxidant known for its soothing and protective properties.

Editor’s tip

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As your skin matures, you may find that you no longer need to cleanse twice a day. "Cleansing at the end of the day before bedtime is particularly important, but some people prefer to only rinse with water in the mornings,” Dr. King notes. “This can depend on the person's skin type and lifestyle."

More to know

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

Best for Makeup Removal: Charlotte Tilbury Multi-Miracle Glow Cleansing Balm

Charlotte Tilbury

Multi-Miracle Glow Cleansing Balm

$62

Nordstrom

$62

Ulta Beauty

Why we love it: We consider it a miracle, too, when one product can multitask—and Charlotte Tilbury’s Multi-Miracle Glow really leans into its name. This luxe balm starts as a silky cleanser, then moonlights as an overnight mask and even a leave-on body balm for dry, flaky spots that need quick smoothing. And because it comes from a makeup artist-led brand, you can bet it melts away makeup like an absolute pro. “Makeup-removing cleansers can be stripping, but this balm is particularly great at removal and hydration thanks to rosehip and camellia oils,” says Debbie Palmer, a board-certified dermatologist based in Harrison, New York. You also get Arctic cloudberry oil for softness, vitamins C and E to brighten tired skin, vitamin A for that baby-smooth finish, and coconut alkanes to lock in moisture for a dewy, nourished glow.

Editor's tip

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If you’re using this as the first step in a double-cleansing routine, follow it with a gentle water-based cleanser—you’ll whisk away every trace of residue while keeping hydration locked in.

More to know

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• Key ingredients: Arctic cloudberry oil, vitamin C, vitamin E, vitamin A, rosehip oil, camellia oil, coconut alkanes
• Fragrance-free: no

Best for Barrier Support: Tata Harper Nourishing Oil Cleanser

Tata Harper

Tata Harper Nourishing Oil Cleanser

$78

Amazon

$78

Nordstrom

$78

Sephora

Why we love it: Tata Harper formulates everything for her namesake brand with natural ingredients that feel like a vitamin-rich green juice for aging skin. The Nourishing Oil Cleanser is packed with 26 plant-based ingredients like olive, grape seed, green tea, avocado, camellia, argan, and jojoba oils. “This nourishing combination is great at removing makeup without over-stripping the skin,” says Dr. Palmer. Plus, barrier-loving additions like sunflower, castor, apricot kernel, and squalane work together to dissolve even long-wearing formulas while leaving skin soft, balanced, and rejuvenated with every wash.

Editor's tip

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Since it’s an oil cleanser, apply it straight onto dry skin and give yourself a thorough, slow massage. For eye makeup, saturate a cotton pad, press it over your lids and lashes, and let it melt everything off.

More to know

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• Key ingredients: sacha inchi oil, apricot seed oil, sunflower seed oil, avocado oil, calendula, squalane
• Fragrance-free: no

Best Exfoliating: Mara Algae Enzyme Cleansing Oil

Mara

Algae Enzyme Cleansing Oil

$58

Amazon

$58

Sephora

$58

Credo Beauty

Why we love it: Mara’s signature algae-infused approach to skin care—the brand name itself inspired by “mar,” meaning “sea” in several languages—anchors this 2024 Best of Beauty winner in deep hydration. “I love that the Algae Enzyme Cleansing Oil is both nourishing and exfoliating, two important properties in a cleanser for mature skin,” says Geeta Yadav, MD, board-certified dermatologist based in Toronto, Canada. Spirulina and kelp team up with four gentle fruit enzymes—papaya, pineapple, grapefruit, and pumpkin—to lightly exfoliate and refine texture without irritation. “As we age, cellular turnover slows, which leads to fine lines, wrinkles, and discoloration, and our skin becomes thinner and drier. These plant-based enzymes work within a base of rich oils like jojoba, sunflower, and squalane to whisk away debris without compromising the skin barrier,” says Dr. Yadav.

Editor’s tip

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Chia and moringa round out this oil cleanser to help leave skin soft, supple, and perfectly balanced.

More to know

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• Key ingredients: jojoba seed oil, papaya enzymes, chia, moringa, squalane, spirulina, kelp
• Fragrance-free: yes

Best for Redness: EltaMD Skin Recovery Amino Acid Foaming Cleanser

EltaMD

Skin Recovery Amino Acid Foaming Cleanser

$35 $28 (20% off)

Amazon

$35

Dermstore

Why we love it: Turns out, for some people, getting older doesn’t mean you magically outgrow acne or oily T-zones. EltaMD Skin Recovery Amino Acid Foaming Cleanser is a dream for mature skin that still battles breakouts—whether they’re triggered by shifting hormones, stress, or pore-clogging products—but can’t afford to compromise its delicate moisture barrier. “Though many foaming facial cleansers can strip the skin barrier, this formula actually strengthens it with a blend of essential amino acids, soothing extracts, and gentle hydrators,” says Dr. Yadav. As it lifts away sunscreen, makeup, and environmental grime, it doesn’t just stop there. “It’s also clinically proven to reduce facial redness in just two weeks and relieve dryness in only one,” says Dr. Yadav.

Editor’s tip

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Bisabolol and ginger root extract work together to calm irritation and visibly reduce redness, making them ideal for oily skin that’s also stressed out.

More to know

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• Key ingredients: amino acids, bisabolol, ginger root extract
• Fragrance-free: yes

Best for Post-Procedure: Alastin Ultra Calm Cleansing Cream

Alastin

Ultra Calm Cleansing Cream

$58 $46 (21% off)

Amazon

$58

Alastin

Why we love it: Whether your skin is reactive after an at-home exfoliant or tender post-laser, Alastin Ultra Calm Cleansing Cream is specifically designed for sensitive, easily irritated complexions. This ultra-gentle, non-foaming cleanser sweeps away impurities, sunscreen, and light makeup without compromising a fragile barrier. Its creamy, milky texture is enriched with linoleic acid to reinforce the skin’s natural barrier and oat protein extract to calm and soothe irritation. “Since mature skin tends to be drier and more reactive, it benefits from this formula that also features tremella mushroom, an adaptogen that helps skin adapt to stress and self-regulate. It’s even a more powerful humectant than hyaluronic acid,” says Dr. Yadav.

Editor’s tip

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Panthenol (vitamin B5) and soybean sterols help calm irritation and strengthen the skin barrier—another reason this cleanser is a solid choice for sensitive skin.

More to know

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• Key ingredients: silver mushroom, linoleic acid, oat protein extract, panthenol
• Fragrance-free: yes

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best facial cleanser for mature skin?

The best facial cleanser for mature skin should check off a few boxes—namely, they should "prioritize hydration, barrier support, and gentle cleansing," says Dr. Collins, who cites ingredients such as hyaluronic acid, ceramides, and peptides, as well as green tea extract and vitamin E for antioxidant protection. "Cream cleansers and oil-based formulations are ideal as they effectively remove impurities without stripping natural oils," she adds.

What should an older woman wash her face with?

As your skin gets older (and wiser!), it needs a little extra TLC in the cleansing department to keep it looking and feeling its best. Natural oil production decreases, leading to dryness and a weakened skin barrier, so older women benefit from using hydrating cleansers to restore moisture. Dullness becomes more noticeable as cell turnover slows, so incorporating a cleanser with mild alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) like glycolic or lactic acid can help gently exfoliate and reveal brighter, smoother skin. "Those with mature skin should avoid sulfates like sodium lauryl sulfate, harsh alcohols, and high concentrations of acids, as they can strip moisture and exacerbate dryness or sensitivity," says Dr. Collins.

What is a good skin-care routine for mature skin?

A solid skin-care routine for aging skin focuses on three key things: hydration, protection, and repair. According to Dr. Collins, your morning routine should include a cream or oil-based cleanser to gently remove impurities, followed by an antioxidant serum, like vitamin C, to brighten skin and fight free radicals. Afterward, apply a moisturizer to hydrate and finish with a broad-spectrum sunscreen (with SPF 30 or more) to shield against UV damage.

For the evening routine, Dr. Collins recommends starting with a face wash, either a single or double cleanse, depending on your needs. "Next, incorporate a retinol or peptide serum to boost collagen and improve skin texture. Wrap up your routine with a hydrating cream or moisturizer to seal in moisture and give your skin the overnight support it needs to recharge and repair," Dr. Collins says. With this simple yet effective routine, you'll address common concerns like dryness, fine lines, and dullness while keeping your skin healthy and radiant.

How do you double-cleanse mature skin?

Double-cleansing mature skin involves two non-stripping formulas to thoroughly cleanse without compromising hydration or irritating delicate skin. "People may prefer this method, particularly if they are wearing heavy makeup, or if they like to use an oil-based cleanser but don't like the residue that some oil-based cleansers leave behind," says Dr. King. "Start with a cleansing balm or oil onto dry skin to remove makeup and sunscreen, then rinse or gently wipe away with a soft cloth. Follow with a gentle cream or gel cleanser to remove dirt, oil, and makeup stragglers," says Dr. Collins.

Meet the experts

• Mina Amin, MD, a board-certified dermatologist at California Dermatology Specialists, based in Los Angeles
• Kristina Collins, MD, a double board-certified dermatologist based in Austin
• Shannon Humphrey, MD, a board-certified dermatologist and co-founder of Humphrey & Beleznay Cosmetic Dermatology, based in British Columbia, Canada
• Hadley King, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in New York City
• Debbie Palmer, a board-certified dermatologist and co-founder of Dermatology Associates of New York, based in Harrison, New York
• Geeta Yadav, MD, board-certified dermatologist and founder of Facet Dermatology, based in Toronto, Canada

How we test and review products

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

For our review of the best cleansers for mature skin, we enlisted the help of multiple editors, writers, contributors, and makeup artists to review the products. This ensures our testing base spans different skin tones, genders, and dermatological conditions. We considered each product's performance across four primary categories: ingredients, wear and longevity, packaging, and inclusivity. For more on what's involved in our reporting, check out our complete review 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 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're able to fairly assess any beauty product that comes into the beauty closet.

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In the Wicked movies, Michelle Yeoh plays the Shiz instructor Madame Morrible, who uses her powers to control the weather and send the tornado that brings Dorothy to Oz. But on the red carpet, Yeoh has been making another kind of magic—the beauty-related kind! The Oscar winner has been having so much fun changing up her hairstyle at nearly every premiere stop, capping off two years of press duties with a highlighted highlighted pixie cut that is nothing short of enchanting. (Or as the Ozians would say, we're “obsessulated.”)

As Morrible, Yeoh wears a silvery wig sculpted into various curly, twirly updos, but for the New York premiere, she did a total 180 with a sophisticated pixie in a chocolate brown color with eye-catching chunky golden highlights scattered throughout. The pixie was cut longer than the classic super-short Mia Farrow-in-Rosemary's Baby pixie, with long bangs that fell just below the arch of Yeoh's brows and a choppy, playful texture reminiscent of the short cuts of the late ‘90s and early 2000s. While it’s definitely a pixie, it's tiptoeing pretty close into bowl cut territory. It also provided the ideal anchor for her enormously fluffy Givenchy lime tulle gown, black liner, and pink cheeks and lips.

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Pixies never, ever go out of style, but they've had a major resurgence this year, with stars like Emma Stone and Keke Palmer showing off short cuts. The magic of a pixie is its versatility; it works for every hair type and texture. You can incorporate bangs like Yeoh did or wear it curly, coily, or wavy—you name it, you can do it with a pixie. Its sister cut, the bixie, has also been popular recently, with a longer length that bridges the gap between a pixie and a bob, just like Yeoh's premiere look does with the pixie and a bowl cut. If there's ever been a time to go short, whether permanently or with a wig, it's now!

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It's almost impossible to picture Kate Hudson without long, flowing hair. It's just her thing. But let us not forget that the Oscar winner is actually one of the more adventurous actors when it comes to hair experimentation. Remember when she buzzed it all off in 2017? Or when she played with pink strands in 2021? And it seems she must have been itching for a big change once again because she just debuted a still-trending bob on the red carpet.

Hudson attended the Governors Awards—it's an Oscar thing—wearing an incredibly gorgeous silk Valentino gown in the prettiest shade of light green. And while the butterfly-shaped cut-outs on the sleeve are a total scene-stealer, your eyes can't help but travel upward to her new, shorter hair.

Photo: Getty Images

While we haven't confirmed yet if Hudson's go-to hairstylist, Marcus Francis, is the one who chopped off several inches of her hair, we do know that he styled it for this event. He gave her a retro look with defined yet soft curls and a side part. One side was pinned behind her ear to reveal a beautiful diamond drop earring with a pink stone that echoed the tone of her glossy lips and glowing cheeks.

Photo: Getty Images

Hudson posted several photos of the look on Instagram, and fans definitely took notice of the new shorter style. “Loving the 1920s vibes in that outfit and wow the hair 😍👏👏,” one commenter wrote. “The hair AND the dress ❤️🔥 She's awesome,” another said—both entirely accurate observations.

We can't wait to see how it looks styled in other textures—and how many other people this look inspires to finally get a bob themselves.

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Picture it: It's 1995. Your mom has dragged you to her favorite nail salon so she can get a manicure before your family's tropical vacation. You look around at the posters of beautiful hands all over the walls, entranced by the most shimmery and whimsical nail designs, only to glance over at your mother's hands and see that she has opted for… a French manicure. Doesn't she know she's about to be relaxing under a palm tree? This calls for a fun, on-theme set!

Fast-forward to 2025, and Halsey knows what's up.

On Tuesday, November 18, nail artist Natalie Minerva posted an Instagram Reel showing off her latest work on the singer-songwriter. The close-up video reveals a magically retro, ready-for-a-getaway manicure.

“TROPICAL MOONSTONE 🌴🌺🐚 for vacayyyyyy! Have the best time!!!! ❤️❤️❤️,” she wrote in the caption, giving the look the perfect name.

Instagram content

Each softly almond-shaped nail starts with a pale pink base that may seem not unlike what you'd see in a traditional French manicure, but it's actually a combination of Bare My Soul by OPI and a custom mixed purple pearl sheen on top. “I then made my own seafoam cateye tips by adding some cateye powder into a base gel,” Minerva tells Allure. “I applied it to the tip of the nail and faded it out with a clean up brush, then used a magnet to bring the flash of the cateye to the very edge of the nail.”

And to really give the manicure a very '90s tropical feel, Minerva added chrome accents in fuchsia and golden hues: tiny palm trees on a ring finger and pinky, and a hibiscus on a pointer finger. “Lastly, I applied OPI Super Gloss Non Wipe Top Coat so the chrome stays chrome and locks in the set with something strong.”

Photo: Natalie Minerva

Although we don't know where Halsey is headed on holiday—wouldn't it be funny if it was actually, like, Iceland?—her nails no doubt that she's off the clock and in vacation mode, hopefully for as long as this manicure will last.