Category: SPORTS

Source Images: Courtesy of @ploydidthat, @heygreatnails, and @_citreSave StorySave this storySave StorySave this story

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

I’m a nail artist's worst nightmare: I take forever to pick out my polish color, and after I do, I agonize over my nail art. As a self-proclaimed minimalist, I still want a bit of sparkle on my nails, but I’m averse to chunky glitter. I want something that will shine without being too loud. Enter: cat-eye nails.

Nail enthusiasts know that the cat-eye effect is the magic touch that takes any manicure from ordinary to otherworldly. “It creates a sense of mystery and versatility, as the color appears to change, making it both bold and adaptable,” says Jacqueline Pham, a New York City-based nail artist, of the look that resembles the mischievous glimmer in a cat’s eye.

“It’s almost like jewelry for the nails,” adds Sataya Stone, nail artist and founder of Art Nail NYC. “It taps into the desire for luxurious and expressive manicures.”

Cat-eye nails first took off in South Korea. Steph Stone, a Los Angeles-based manicurist, remembers seeing the finish on the Instagram accounts of South Korean nail salons in 2022. The photos inspired her to order magnetic polish from Ice Gel, a K-Beauty nail polish brand.

To create this look at home, you’ll need a polish infused with magnetic particles, as well as a magnet, says Pham. “After applying the polish, hold the magnet close to the nail to move the particles and form a reflective pattern,” she adds. The positioning of the magnet is what makes a cat-eye manicure look, well, like a cat’s eye: Holding the magnet at the center of the nail drags the particles into a straight line; holding it at the tip or side of the nail creates more of a velvet effect (which is equally beautiful). The nail polish brand Mooncat has a great video that demonstrates the difference.

We love the DND 5D Cat Eye gel polishes, which come in a handful of pretty jewel tones, including amethyst, emerald, and topaz. Mooncat offers a variety of magnetic polishes, too, including Allure editor favorites such as Fields of Lavender (a plum shade with glittering hints of red) and Quicksand’s Embrace (a sandy pink with a subtle silvery purple holographic stripe). DND, Mooncat, and most brands that sell magnetic polish also have the necessary magnets for sale. Or you can go the express route: For a quick and easy option, try press-ons painted with the design. We love the sparkling sets from Static Nails and Chillhouse.

You can create just about any nail design with the effect, like a sparkling French manicure or a holographic look with 3D embellishments. Stone says clients of the salon often ask for “cat-eye accents in minimalist designs or layered under fine-line detailing.”

Scroll ahead for cat-eye nail art ideas to keep on hand as inspo for your next appointment.

Cat-Eye Nail Inspiration

Pearly cat-eye nails

Courtesy of Jacqueline PhamDusted rose cat-eye nailsCourtesy of @ploydidthatAmber cat-eye nailsCourtesy of @_citrePurple cat-eye nailsCourtesy of @heygreatnailsPink cat-eye nailsCourtesy of @graciela.nailsBrown sugar cat-eye nailsCourtesy of @ghoulish.nailsCat-eye French nailsCourtesy of @graciela.nails

Photographed by: Giancarlos Kunhardt; Prop styling: Briana Rengifo

Save StorySave this storySave StorySave this story

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

By now, you know that the Allure Best of Beauty Awards bestow that instantly recognizable seal on the products that editors, makeup artists, hairstylists, and dermatologists agree are the cream (and serum) of the crop. Spotting that red circle while shopping feels like getting an instant and highly enthusiastic recommendation from your most beauty-savvy, ingredient-literate friend.

We've been bestowing Best of Beauty Awards for nearly three decades now, so repeat winners are inevitable, not because there's a lack of competition in certain categories—trust us, there are plenty of amazing new launches that give more familiar products a run for their money. It's just that some winners somehow manage to remain untouchable. And that's why we've decided to salute them with a Hall of Fame—a designation given only to products that have won three or more Best of Beauty Awards.

Does it mean that you shouldn't even bother trying other products? Of course not—something else may work really well for you. But does it mean you must try them at least once if you haven't already because hello, they are clearly awesome? Yes, yes, a thousand times, yes.

Okay, so none of these products have won Best of Beauty Awards a thousand times, but that's only because we didn't get started until 1996. The fact that some of these tools and formulas have won three, four, even double-digit times is still incredibly impressive— even more so when you consider how many have won Readers' Choice Awards, too.

The products below are only some of the Best of Beauty Award Hall of Famers—yes, there are even more habitual winners—so check them out and then find out for yourself why they keep conquering their categories.

Tree Hut Shea Sugar Scrub

Best Physical Body Scrub

Tree Hut Shea Sugar Scrub

$11 $8 (27% off)

Amazon

Senior audience development director Lexi Herrick using the Tree Hut Shea Sugar Scrub in Moroccan Rose.

Lexi Herrick

There’s truly a Tree Hut Shea Sugar Scrub scent for every imaginable mood—social media manager Bianca Richards is currently obsessed with the freesia, sandalwood, and vanilla combo of Exotic Bloom—but no matter which fragrance floats your boat, the results are always stunning, soft, glowing skin. “I always find myself coming back to this tried-and-true favorite,” Richards says. “The sugar granules are just right for gently exfoliating dead skin, leaving it feeling smooth and refreshed,” which may explain why it’s been bestowed with its third Best of Beauty Award.

Best of Beauty Awards: 3

Oral-B iO Series 5 Rechargeable Electric Toothbrush

Best Toothbrush

Oral-B iO Series 5 Electric Toothbrush

$100 $90 (10% off)

Amazon

Not everyone gets excited about brushing their teeth, and those unenthusiastic people are the ones who haven’t tried the Oral-B iO Series 5 Rechargeable Electric Toothbrush yet. We, on the other hand, have been using it for years, and it keeps coming out on top of our electric toothbrush picks. Editor in chief Jessica Cruel has been using this rechargeable, round-brush wonder for years and really appreciates the sensitivity sensor, and her dentist has even noticed a difference.

Best of Beauty Awards: 3

Rare Beauty Positive Light Silky Touch Highlighter

Best Powder Highlighter

Rare Beauty Positive Light Silky Touch Highlighter

$27

Sephora

Senior art director Ingrid Fowler applies the Rare Beauty Positive Light Silky Touch Highlighter.

To love the look of a liquid highlighter but prefer a powder format is to find yourself with few options that really deliver that gorgeously glassy look, so, of course, we keep coming back to Rare Beauty Positive Light Silky Touch Highlighter. Winning each year since its launch in 2022, this magical little mound of radiance never looks cakey or costume-y. “It’s so light and fine that it feels like you're applying air,” says senior art director Ingrid Fowler. “You only need a little bit to get a glimmery, shimmery—but not too shimmery—payoff.”

Best of Beauty Awards: 3

Shani Darden Skin Care Triple Acid Signature Peel

Best Monthly Peel

Shani Darden Skin Care Triple Acid Signature Peel

$125

Amazon

Shani Darden Skin Care Triple Acid Signature Peel gives you the opportunity to play esthetician at home with a two-step, brush-on framework that feels straight out of a spa. Starting with an exfoliating combo of lactic, glycolic, and mandelic acids and ending with a clay mask, it delivers fast, noticeable results that have earned it three Best of Beauty Awards. "I feel so fancy every time I use this peel," says associate beauty editor Annie Blay-Tettey. "The two-step system makes it seem more thorough than most acid-based peels, and the glowy results prove it actually is."

Best of Beauty Awards: 3

Lush Bath Bomb

Best Bath Bomb

Lush Bath Bomb

$8

Lush

Senior news editor Nicola Dall’Asen drops a Lush Bath Bomb into her tub.

Ask 10 people to describe a Lush Bath Bomb, and you’ll get 10 different answers. That’s because, even though it’s the quintessential bath bomb that so many of us picture when we think of bath bombs, it comes in seemingly countless shapes, colors, and scents. Watching it become one with your bath water and then immersing yourself will never not be whimsical. Bonus: “They never fail to leave soothed, soft skin in their wake,” says senior news editor Nicola Dall’Asen.

Best of Beauty Awards: 3

Cetaphil Gentle Skin Cleanser

Best Skin-Care Steals

Cetaphil Gentle Skin Cleanser

$15 $13 (13% off)

Amazon

Editor in chief Jessica Cruel, who has access to pretty much any cleanser you can imagine, keeps a reserved parking space for Cetaphil Gentle Skin Cleanser in her shower. Like so many of us who have made it a part of our routines over the years—it has double-digits Best of Beauty Awards, so that really is so many of us—she knows that sometimes you just want clean skin without frothy fanfare and potentially irritating active ingredients. Ultimately, this hydrating formula is kind to both sensitive skin and sensitive bank accounts, and that earns it Hall of Fame status.

Best of Beauty Awards: 11

Jones Road The Blush Brush

Best Blush Brush

Jones Road The Blush Brush

$36

Jones Road

Managing editor Alessandra Foresto applying blush with the Jones Road The Blush Brush.

The true test of a makeup brush’s brilliance: making an uncoordinated person seem like a pro with its foolproof application. “Even when I think I've added too much product, Jones Road’s The Blush Brush proves me wrong as I watch it blend out with ease,” says contributing editor Marci Robin. This ease of use and reliability are only part of what makes it a repeat red-seal recipient; it also boasts soft, thick bristles that feel as fantastic as they perform.

Best of Beauty Awards: 3

Tweezerman Slant Tweezer

Best Tweezers

Tweezerman Slant Tweezers

$25

Amazon

Sometimes we forget that tweezers weren’t named after the name Tweezerman—that’s how gold-standard (or perhaps stainless-steel-standard)—the brand’s plucking tools are. And that’s especially true of the Slant Tweezer, which is the winningest Best of Beauty Award recipient in the honor’s history with 26 red seals. You can always rely on it—and boy, have we—to grab even the finest and most stubborn hair.

Best of Beauty Awards: 26

Smashbox The Original Photo Finish Smooth & Blur Primer

Best Mattifying Primer

Smashbox The Original Photo Finish Smooth & Blur Primer

$34 $29 (15% off)

Amazon

Lily Wohlner

Although there was quite a gap between the 2009 and 2025 Best of Beauty Awards bestowed upon The Original Photo Finish Smooth & Blur Primer, this Smashbox classic has always been That Girl. Social director Kassidy Silva—who loves the lightweight, oil-free, even matte base it creates with its transparent formula—keeps finding herself making a U-turn back to the smooth, transparent formula on her long road of trying new primers. “If you also subscribe to the ‘apply in the morning and hope it stays all day’ makeup routine, this is the primer for you.”

Best of Beauty Awards: 3

Homecourt Room Deodorant

Best Room Spray

Homecourt Cece Room Deodorant

$45

Revolve

$45

Bluemercury

Once you can admit that your home may be stinky beyond the help of a scented candle, it’s time to look to something that can actually solve the problem, and we’ve found, over and over, that Homecourt Room Deodorant does the job with odor-neutralizing zinc, yeast ferment, and charcoal. We’re especially big fans of the smoky-meets-sweet scent, Cece.

Best of Beauty Awards: 3

Urban Decay 24/7 Glide-On Eye Pencil

Best Color Pencil Eyeliner

Urban Decay 24/7 Glide-On Eyeliner Pencil

$23

Amazon

Senior news editor Nicola Dall’Asen creates a purple liner look with the Urban Decay 24/7 Glide-On Eyeliner Pencil.

Nicola Dall’Asen

You know a product is iconic when, every few years, Allure editors are like, “There really is nothing quite like this in the category.” Such is the case with Urban Decay 24/7 Glide-On Eye Pencil, which has undeniably served as the inspiration for countless eyeliners that have come after it. Now, accepting its third Best of Beauty Award—following wins in 2009 and 2015—it has several staffers contending that it’s the G.O.A.T. because of its incredible opacity, durability, and shade range, which includes both everyday and experimental colors, like the matte dark brown Demolition and the sparkling hot pink Woodstock, respectively.

Best of Beauty Awards: 3

Dove Deep Moisture Body Wash

Best Liquid Body Wash

Dove Deep Moisture Body Wash

$11

Amazon

The definition of affordable luxury, Dove Deep Moisture Body Wash is such an indulgently hydrating cleansing experience that it feels like you must have made a financially regrettable decision every time you take a shower. Thankfully, you can get suspiciously soft skin without overspending with this long-loved formula, which is welcoming its ninth instantly recognizable seal to its own instantly recognizable bottle.

Best of Beauty Awards: 9

Nars Powder Blush

Nars

Powder Blush

$34

Nordstrom

$34

Bluemercury

Senior editor Jesa Marie Calaor brushes the Nars Powder Blush onto her cheekbones.

Don't call it a comeback! OK, call it a comeback. Nars Powder Blush has racked up numerous Best of Beauty Awards since the turn of the century, but its winning streak slowed in recent years as the blush competition thickened. We're not saying that's what prompted the brand to reformulate what is arguably its most famous product (even your grandma knows about Orgasm), but we were so impressed with 2024’s talc-free, even more blendable, and conveniently refillable reimagining of Nars Blush that we couldn't deny it its eighth red seal. "The new formula feels ever-so-slightly more velvety and deposits even more color with each swipe," says senior editor Jesa Marie Calaor.

Best of Beauty Awards: 8

CND Vinylux Long Wear Shine Top Coat

CND Vinylux Long Wear Shine Top Coat

$12

Amazon

Your favorite nail polish color may change from week to week, but when it comes to that last clear layer, it's hard to stray from a formula as fantastic as the CND Vinylux Long Wear Shine Top Coat. It helps any color from any brand (it doesn't discriminate) look shinier and last longer, acting as a force field against annoying chips. In other words, your favorite color may need to stay your favorite color for longer than a week because it’s going to stick around beyond seven days with this level of protection on top.

Best of Beauty Awards: 3

Patrick Ta Beauty Major Sculpt Crème Contour & Powder Bronzer Duo

Patrick Ta

Major Sculpt Crème Contour & Powder Bronzer Duo

$40

Sephora

Size matters, especially when it comes to your go-to sculpting product. "I put contour and bronzer on every single day. It's a product you just use more, and in more places, so I didn't want it to run out quickly," makeup artist Patrick Ta previously told Allure of his Major Sculpt Crème Contour & Powder Bronzer Duo. As its name suggests, this winner actually gets you two products—and plenty of 'em—and their textures are so incredibly blendable that it feels like the makeup artist's mastery was one of the ingredients. And it’s no wonder that it applies perfectly with Patrick Ta’s new addition to the Hall of Fame, Major Sculpt Dual-Ended Sculpting Brush.

Best of Beauty Awards: 3

ghd Platinum+ Styler

GHD

Platinum+ Styler

$319 $239 (25% off)

Amazon

$279

Revolve

$289

Dermstore

Contributor Paige Stables straightens her hair with the ghd Platinum+ Styler.

Is it a flatiron? Sure, technically. But what's earned the ghd Platinum+ Styler the "styler" designation—and four Best of Beauty Awards—is its so-much-more-than-a-flatiron flair. In addition to easy-peasy straightening, it allows you to create waves and curls with its rounded barrel and no-snag plates, which never deviate from 365 degrees—the perfect temperature for styling without singeing. No matter how high-maintenance your bangs may be, this tool makes sleek child’s play of them.

Best of Beauty Awards: 4

eSalon Custom Hair Color Set

eSalon

Custom Hair Color Set

$33

eSalon

Some say the eSalon Custom Hair Color Set is the next best thing to going to the salon, but we have the audacity to say it may be—wait for it—just as good. That's because eSalon puts just as much care and expertise into crafting the single-process shade you want—based on your hair's texture, history, and more—as a live-and-in-person colorist The kit comes with more components than the average at-home hair dye (like a professional-style applicator brush and a stain guard gel for applying around your hairline), but it's not the least bit intimidating to use. (In fact, it's arguably easier—just one of the reasons it keeps getting Best of Beauty Awards.) "The finished result was so flattering and natural, it was like the shade was made for me—because it was," says contributor Liana Schaffner.

Best of Beauty Awards: 10

Beautyblender Original Makeup Sponge

Beautyblender

Original Makeup Sponge

$20

Amazon

$20

Nordstrom

$20

Revolve

Contributor Hunter Lacey blends in concealer using the Beautyblender Original Makeup Sponge.

There have been many—oh, so many—imitators, but nothing will ever replace the original Beautyblender. Shaped like a pointy egg, the makeup-kit staple is now a 14-time Best of Beauty Award winner. "I wanted a tool that gave you an airbrushed look without having to actually use an airbrush machine," founder Rea Ann Silva previously told Allure, and that's achieved by how foundation sits atop the Beautyblender once it's wet, not to mention the way its suede-like texture and edge-free shape blends it out gorgeously and into every tiny angle and contour of the face.

Best of Beauty Awards: 14

Maybelline New York Great Lash Mascara

Maybelline New York

Great Lash Mascara

$10 $7 (30% off)

Amazon (2-Pack)

Maybelline New York Great Lash Mascara has been winning Allure awards—both Best of Beauty and Readers' Choice—since before some of our current staff members were born. The pink and green packaging may be instantly recognizable, but it's what's inside the tube that makes it the most iconic everyday mascara on the market. We've seen it reimagined as a waterproof formula and in different colors, but we'll always keep coming back to the original for its simple yet effective lengthening and separating results.

Best of Beauty Awards: 5

Tangle Teezer The Original

Tangle Teezer

The Original

$15

Amazon

The original Tangle Teezer completely changed not only the way we treat our hair when it's wet, but the way we view hairbrushes. Turns out that a giant, plastic jelly bean is exactly what so many of us needed to get through our knotty hair—straight, curly, or in-between—without any discomfort. "It fits perfectly into your palm, which allows for less of the tugging that makes hair snap," hairstylist Tommy Buckett has told Allure of the four-time Best of Beauty winner. And while it may not look (or for that matter, be) as expensive as some other pro-loved hairbrushes on the market, you have to admit, the huge array of colors it comes in (and the adorable fact that the brand now makes Tangle Teezers for our furry friends) just adds to how delightful it is to use.

Best of Beauty Awards: 4

Touchland

Touchland

Power Mist

$30

Amazon (3-Pack)

Features director Dianna Mazzone Singh cleanses her hands in a pinch with the Touchland hand sanitizer.

Hand sanitizer isn't fun… said someone who has yet to be introduced to Touchland. The recipient of multiple Best of Beauty and Readers' Choice Awards, this germ-killing mist lures you in with its colorful, chic packaging and has you coming back for more with its unexpectedly lovely scents, like Beach Coco, Citrus Grove, and Pure Lavender. It's easy to forget that it serves such a practical purpose, but even easier to remember to use it because you'll actually want to.

Best of Beauty Awards: 5

Kevyn Aucoin Eyelash Curler

Kevyn Aucoin

The Eyelash Curler

$26

Bluemercury

$26

Dermstore

This eyelash curler won its first Best of Beauty Award more than 20 years ago, if you can believe it—and you should definitely believe it because it's absolutely worth making it the one in your makeup bag. The Kevyn Aucoin classic may not be one of the color-cosmetics products the brand is so celebrated for, but the fact that this tool has been around (and winning awards) for so long shows just how iconic it is. We especially appreciate how its bright red pad makes it almost impossible to pinch yourself when you go in for the curl.

Best of Beauty Awards: 7

St. Tropez Self Tan Express Bronzing Mousse

St. Tropez

Self Tan Express Bronzing Mousse

$46 $32 (30% off)

Amazon

Nearly every self-tanner on Earth does its darkening with dihydroxyacetone (DHA), the sugar that reacts with amino acids on your skin to prompt a faux golden glow. But somehow, St. Tropez has managed to make the customizable results of its Self Tan Express Bronzing Mousse the most convincingly un-faux—to the point that your staunchly pro-sunscreen friends might scold you for lying out in the sun. A three-time Best of Beauty winner, this advanced formula even wows scientists with its ability to provide a customized level of color depending on how long you leave it on. "What's really impressive about this technology is that they've been able to show that every time you wash it off after an hour, you'll get a light, even tan, and so on for the rest of the shades," cosmetic chemist Jim Hammer previously told Allure. "From a chemistry perspective, this sort of consistency is a real achievement. And for people at home, being able to pick three shades from one bottle? That's a first."

Best of Beauty Awards: 3

Jergens Natural Glow Daily Moisturizer

Self-Tanner

Jergens Natural Glow Daily Moisturizer

$12 $10 (17% off)

Amazon

$10

Walmart

If the bronze bottle of Jergens Natural Glow Daily Moisturizer looks a bit trophy-esque, perhaps that's because it's surrounded by multiple Best of Beauty and Readers' Choice Awards. The long-time go-to self-tanner for people who are nervous to use self-tanner, the formula promises the kind of gradual build-up of color that doesn't feel as overwhelming as the prospect of a full-blown tan in a matter of minutes. "And just like the color is more subtle than that of the self-tanners you may be used to, so is the scent," says contributing editor Marci Robin. "Sure, brands have come a long way in masking that telltale DHA smell, but Jergens mastered that long before the rest, and it's only gotten more pleasant to use and smell in recent years."

Best of Beauty Awards: 9

Neutrogena Body Clear Body Acne Wash Pink Grapefruit

Neutrogena

Body Clear Body Wash Pink Grapefruit

$38 $29 (24% off)

Amazon (3-Pack)

$10

Target

For so many people, Neutrogena Body Clear Body Acne Wash Pink Grapefruit was the first product that we ever used to address backne and other body breakouts; and for so many people, it's still what we turn to when things get bumpy below the neck. Its salicylic acid makes it a no-brainer, especially in the summer or after workouts, and its grapefruit scent has always been the ideal amount of citrusy-but-not-too-sweet. No wonder it's won a nice handful of Best of Beauty Awards.

Best of Beauty Awards: 5

Olive & June Polish Remover Pot

Olive & June

Polish Remover Pot

$10

Olive & June

Senior news editor Nicola Dall’Asen removes her red nail polish with the Olive & June Polish Remover Pot.

You think it's humiliating to be terrible at painting your own nails? Try being a klutz at removing that nail polish—knocking over the bottle, getting remnants of cotton stuck to your nails, etc. The worst. And that's why we've been so thankful—to the tune of four Best of Beauty Awards—for the Olive & June Polish Remover Pot. The sponge inside is saturated in a gentle non-acetone formula, so after a couple twists of the fingertip, your nail is totally clean, free of both polish and fuzz. And you're ready to give painting your nails another good-faith try.

Best of Beauty Awards: 4

Aveeno Positively Radiant Daily Face Moisturizer Broad Spectrum SPF 30

Aveeno

Positively Radiant Daily Moisturizer SPF 30

$25 $18 (28% off)

Amazon

We should all be applying sunscreen every day—yes, even if we're just sitting inside near a window—the way we apply moisturizer every day. Aveeno makes multitasking super easy and (clearly, from the Best of Beauty Awards it has racked up) effective with its Positively Radiant Daily Face Moisturizer Broad Spectrum SPF 30. This drugstore favorite goes beyond hydrating to provide broad-spectrum protection that lessens the likelihood of sun damage, like discoloration. All the while, it addresses existing dark spots with its proprietary tone correcting soy formula.

Best of Beauty Awards: 5

RevitaBrow Advanced Eyebrow Conditioner

RevitaBrow

RevitaBrow Advanced Eyebrow Conditioner

$60

Amazon

$60

Nordstrom

$60

Dermstore

While other brow conditioners and serums promise miracles, RevitaBrow Advanced Eyebrow Conditioner has long delivered on exactly what we're hoping to see: healthier-looking, less brittle, and, yes, seemingly fuller eyebrows. "I graduated from high school in 1994. I think you can imagine what my poor brows endured during that dark, dark decade for the human eyebrow. By the time I arrived at Allure in my 20s, they were still shadows of their former selves," says executive beauty director Jenny Bailly. "A strict hands-off policy certainly helped with regrowth, but I saw the most improvement after I started using RevitaBrow pretty much as soon as it came out. I've tried other brow conditioners over the years, but always come back to this one and use it consistently every day (which I can't say for many other beauty products)."

Best of Beauty Awards: 13

BareMinerals Complexion Rescue Tinted Moisturizer SPF 30

BareMinerals

Complexion Rescue Tinted Hydrating Gel Cream

$39 $27 (31% off)

Amazon

$39

Nordstrom

$39

Revolve

BareMinerals Complexion Rescue Tinted Moisturizer isn't just an Allure editor and beauty expert favorite. In addition to its four Best of Beauty Awards, it has also impressed shoppers enough to win multiple Readers' Choice Awards. (We like to think that means you're listening. Thanks!) Ever so much lighter than foundation but just as transformative, it blends beautifully into your complexion (there are 20 flexible, glow-imparting shades), hydrates like the dickens, and even provides SPF 30 broad-spectrum sun protection.

Best of Beauty Awards: 4

Color Wow Root Cover Up

Color Wow

Root Cover Up

$34 $26 (24% off)

Amazon

$35

Revolve

$35

Ulta Beauty

At first glance, if you didn't know what Color Wow Root Cover Up is, you might think it's an eye shadow or brow powder. But inside the easily portable compact is actually a multiple Best of Beauty award-winning gray-hair concealer like no other. "It's a pressed powder—in eight shades, from platinum to black—that comes with a small brush so I can pinpoint my grays and avoid my fancy salon highlights better than I can with a spray or loose powder," says Bailly, who adds that its finish is like real hair, so it never turns dull or stiff the way some sprays and hair mascaras do.

Best of Beauty Awards: 9

L'Oréal Paris True Match Super-Blendable Powder

L'Oréal Paris

True Match Super-Blendable Powder

$13 $9 (31% off)

Amazon

L'Oréal Paris True Match Super-Blendable Powder's Best of Beauty wins date back all the way to 2005, and it's still impressing drugstore beauty shoppers nearly 20 years later. (Just think of how many other foundations have come and gone in that time.) It keeps wowing us with how strangely un-powdery (read: undetectable) it is, and if redness is one of your biggest frustrations, this pressed formula will become one of your biggest allies.

Best of Beauty Awards: 7

Make Up For Ever Ultra HD Microfinish Loose Powder

Make Up For Ever

HD Microfinish Powder

$39

Sephora

We're devastated every time a few of Make Up For Ever Ultra HD Microfinish Loose Powder’s super airy particles land anywhere other than our faces because that's a tiny bit of blurring, light-diffusing magic that our skin is missing out on. This loose powder visibly minimizes pores and lines while somehow remaining invisible itself. It has won several Best of Beauty Awards since its first in 2008, and we're just grateful that Make Up For Ever has never messed with this magic.

Best of Beauty Awards: 6

Collage: Paula Balondo; Source images: Courtesy of brands

Save StorySave this storySave StorySave this story

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

Featured in this article

Benefit Cosmetics Glam Cube Advent CalendarBenefit Cosmetics Glam Cube Advent CalendarRead more$149

Nordstrom

Revolve Advent Calendar 2025Revolve 2025 Advent CalendarRead more$150

Revolve

Anthropologie The 24 Days of Beauty Advent CalendarAnthropologie The 24 Days of Beauty Advent CalendarRead more$98

Anthropologie

Raise your hand if the rollout of the best beauty advent calendars gets your heart racing every holiday season. Still with us? Good—because you’ll want to shop these sets before they sell out. Whether you’re treating yourself (as you should) or crossing people off your list, advent calendars should be high on your list of gift ideas. After all, why deliberate on the perfect singular gift when you can buy them a little bit of everything? On the receiving end, opening up a treasure chest of 25 mini- and full-size beauty products is a euphoric experience—so many makeup looks, scent spritzes, and blowouts to be had!

And before you hit us with the "buttt," we know. Advent calendars give us sticker shock, too. Think of it this way: When you add up the retail value for each product, it’s crystal clear just how much you're saving. The holidays are stressful as is, so we let these calendars do the math for us—and, trust us, it’s a winning formula.

If you're unsure of where to start, we’ve gone through the arduous task of online window shopping for you. (Spoiler: It was not arduous at all.) Without further ado, here are the best beauty advent calendars out right now—and worry not, we’ll be refreshing this story with newness as it rolls out. For now, have your credit card info ready and prepare to be crowned the best gift giver of all time.

• Benefit Cosmetics Glam Cube Advent Calendar

  1/10

  Benefit Cosmetics

  Glam Cube Advent Calendar

  $149

  Nordstrom

  $149

  Revolve

  $149

  Ulta Beauty

  Why we love it: Benefit Cosmetics's Glam Cube Advent Calendar is the only kind of Rubik's Cube we want—that is, one we don't actually have to solve (though you'll have plenty of fun twisting and spinning each row) and that is stocked with beauty treats. To be exact, there are 25 Benefit makeup and skin-care products that you (or your giftee) will make very good use of throughout the holiday season, the new year, and beyond. Think fan-favorite mascaras (hey, Badgal Bang) to make your lashes flutter, brow gels to fluff up hairs, and bronzers to add instant dimension to your complexion. Benefit's even thrown in a few makeup removers and cleansers, so you never have an excuse to flop into bed with a caked-up face. Wins all around.

  The star product: Korean lip tints might be on the rise, but stateside, Benetint is undoubtedly one of the OGs. Whether you love the classic Rose—or one of the beloved additions, Raspberry and Dark Cherry—this lip and cheek tint never fails to deliver a buildable, my-lips-but-perkier wash of color. “My jaw was on the ground after my first use that it looked so natural,” social director Kassidy Silva said. "It gives the ideal pop of pink on my lips without looking like I'm wearing lipstick and it's completely weightless with no sticky residue."

• Revolve Advent Calendar 2025

  2/10

  Revolve

  2025 Advent Calendar

  $150

  Revolve

  Why we love it: If you weren't already clued in, Revolve has a gem of a beauty selection with tons of buzzy beauty brands (Tower 28, Summer Fridays, Pat McGrath Labs—the list goes on) we'd happily fill up our carts with any day. At the top of our shopping list right now? Revolve's annual Advent Calendar, obvi. The pink case is as cute as can be, but the minis are even cuter—plus, you get 10 full-size products to really make it worth your buck. Can't swing the $150 25-day calendar? Revolve has a $89 12-day calendar with your name all over it.

  The star product: For those air-dry-and-done wash days, it doesn't get much better (or more lightweight) than Color Wow's Money Mist. “A lot of leave-in conditioners are way too heavy for my fine 2C to 3A curls, but that’s not the case with Money Mist," contributing commerce editor Deanna Pai attested, adding that the mist itself is easy to portion out. “There’s no working this in or waiting for it to sink in. It just disappears, but still manages to do a bang-up job of smoothing any frizz and shaping my waves.” Music to our time-strapped ears? (You get the vibe.)

• Anthropologie The 24 Days of Beauty Advent Calendar

  3/10

  Anthropologie

  The 24 Days of Beauty Advent Calendar

  $98

  Anthropologie

  Why we love it: If your best friend loves sampling all of the latest and greatest, Anthropologie's The 24 Days of Beauty Advent Calendar is a multi-brand stan's dream. Inside this beautifully illustrated box (dreamt up by artist Nephthys Foster) that could cheer up even the grumpiest of Grinches, your giftee will uncover over $300 worth of products spanning makeup, fragrance, skin care, hair care—oh my! Like the categories, the brands featured also have range: Legacies such as L’Occitane and Mario Badescu are nestled with contemporaries like Hero Cosmetics and Vacation.

  The star product: This one's tough. However, ask any editor about Phlur's Vanilla Skin perfume, and you'll be answered with resounding praise every time. This Best of Beauty-winning scent—technically the lighter Hair & Body Mist version—is "nearly good enough to eat," says Silva. It's a unique take on the vanilla revival, thanks to the unexpected dashes of sugar and pink pepper. Wear it whenever you want to make a statement.

• Tatcha 12 Days of Treasures Advent Calendar

  4/10

  Tatcha

  12 Days of Treasures Advent Calendar

  $220

  Tatcha

  $220

  Ulta Beauty (avail 9/28)

  $220

  Sephora (avail 9/28)

  Why we love it: The only way Tatcha could make us love it more would be, you guessed it, to create its first-ever skin-care advent calendar—beautifully illustrated by artist Kaori Watanabe and thoughtfully curated with 12 of its Japanese-inspired best sellers. Think: an elevated skin-care lineup of cleansers, serums, and creams that turns your everyday chores into a relaxing ritual. If you miss out on the calendar, there are plenty more gorgeous holiday sets to gift to your loved ones—or to treat yourself to!

  The star product: The Kissu Lip Mask is easily one of our favorite lip masks, thanks to a cushiony formula consisting of glycerin, fatty acids, squalane, vitamin E, and allantoin that replenishes dry lips and leaves a healthy glow. “This mask works fast, leaving my lips flake-free almost as instantly as the jelly-like product touches my lips,” managing editor Alessandra Foresto affirms. “I let it soak into my lips at night, but I also use it as a softening primer with my skin care in the mornings before applying gloss.”

• Drybar House of Blowouts Advent Calendar

  5/10

  Drybar

  House of Blowouts Advent Calendar

  $99

  Amazon

  Why we love it: Drybar is also coming in hot (get it?) with its first advent calendar, aptly named House of Blowouts. Complete with all the styling products you could possibly need (detanglers, heat protectants, and finishing sprays—gang's all here), and then some, this gift is bound to make someone's year. And priced at just under $100, it's not too hard on the wallet either.

  The star product: We call the duo that is the Liquid Glass Smoothing Shampoo and Conditioner “glossy hair goals.” Despite the deeply moisturizing, frizz-minimizing abilities of vegan keratin, neroli oil, and murumuru butter, they never weigh down hair. Even better, they leave your hair smelling delicious, too, with gourmand notes of coconut, amber, and vanilla.

• Augustinus Bader The 12 Days of Bader

  6/10

  Augustinus Bader

  The 12 Days of Bader

  $675

  Nordstrom

  $675

  Bluemercury

  $675

  Augustinus Bader

  Why we love it: Your bougiest friends (or older sis, or mom) deserve a luxury advent calendar from Augustinus Bader. This 12 Days of Bader set means they get an entire skin-care routine handed to them—and one that's perfectly tailored to the season. Every single cream, serum, lip treatment, and face mask in this chic blue box deeply nourishes and plumps dull, dry skin for a complexion that'll glow all the way into 2026.

  The star product: Winter is coming, whether we like it or not—so you'll need a heavier-duty moisturizer that'll coddle and soften your skin, no matter how dry and chapped it gets. Chock-full of the brand's signature blend of amino acids, vitamins, and peptides (called TCF8), squalane, shea butter, and many other goodies, The Rich Cream is sure to become their skin's BFF.

• Charlotte Tilbury Charlotte’s Beauty Treasure Chest of Love

  7/10

  Charlotte Tilbury

  Charlotte’s Beauty Treasure Chest of Love

  $220

  Charlotte Tilbury

  Why we love it: Some advent calendar packaging is tossed without another thought, but Charlotte Tilbury never falls under that category. Charlotte’s Beauty Treasure Chest of Love is a golden sight to behold—so much so that your giftee will basically be obligated to keep the chest as trinket storage. But before that, they'll unearth lippies in the classic Pillow Talk and Walk of No Shame colorways, as well as three hydrating Magic skin-care products that'll make their skin feel baby-soft and smooth. Darlings, what are you waiting for?

  The star product: Yes, setting sprays aren't the most thrilling products, but trust us when we say the Airbrush Flawless Setting Spray rises above the rest. Allow our content director, Kara McGrath, to elaborate: "The fine mist on this setting spray is simply unmatched: It seems to float through the air before landing gently on your skin. But despite the delicate feel, once the formula coats your face, I can guarantee your makeup is locked in." This travel-size bottle is perfect to stash in any makeup bag so you're never without all-day beauty insurance, so to speak.

• Beekman 1802 The G.O.A.T. 2025 Advent Calendar

  8/10

  Beekman 1802

  The G.O.A.T. 2025 Advent Calendar

  $199

  Beekman 1802

  Why we love it: Beekman 1802 never fails to impress with its whimsical designs—case in point: last year's was modeled after an illustrated children's book—and The G.O.A.T. 2025 Advent Calendar might be the most darling one yet. Because…you can build your own winter village with each day's festival tin or box! We don't know about you, but this is the spark of joy we need as we round out this year. Oh, and trust us, Beekman's skin-care and body-care products are oh-so gentle and nourishing for everyone.

  The star product: You can't expect us not to boast about our 2025 Best of Beauty Award winners, right? Hot off the press: The Pure Fragrance Free Goat Milk Soap strikes the perfect balance of moisture and exfoliation, thanks to the lactic acid present in goat's milk, the brand's staple ingredient. “I love the silky lather that doesn’t dry out my skin,” visuals director Kathryne Hall said. (Spoiler: She was far from the only tester who sang the praises of this chic yet unassuming bar.)

• Kitsch North Pole Post 12 Day Advent Calendar

  9/10

  Kitsch

  North Pole Post 12 Day Advent Calendar

  $144

  Kitsch

  $119

  Amazon

  Why we love it: Kitsch has always been one of our go-to brands for hair accessories that don't break the bank, so the brand's first-ever advent calendar is extra exciting. Priced at $119, you get hair care (we spotted a rosemary-infused scalp oil) and accessories such as soft scrunchies and claw clips. No need to write Santa a letter—the North Pole (12 Day Advent Calendar) is coming to you or a lucky person in your life.

  The star product: Whether they're headed out to a party or want to look polished for the office, the Gold French Hair Pin ties their look together. Messy or sleek buns, or a cute half-updo, couldn't be easier to achieve.

• Glasshouse 24 Days of Christmas Advent Calendar

  10/10

  Glasshouse

  24 Days of Christmas Advent Calendar

  $300

  Glasshouse (avail 9/22)

  $300

  Amazon (avail 9/29)

  $300

  Dermstore (avail 9/29)

  Why we love it: If you have a fragrance fanatic in your life (or are one yourself), Glasshouse's 24 Days of Christmas Advent Calendar is the best gift (or self-indulgence). Ten scents across eau de parfums, candles, body washes, hand creams, and more that are guaranteed to garner compliments—what more could you want?

  The star product: We think the Glasshouse Perfume Pencils are especially cool. They're compact, practically weightless, and a concentrated and mess-free way to scent your pulse points. The calendar comes with two: Kyoto in Bloom (amber floral) and Midnight in Milan (saffron rose), which may become your signature scents. See what we did there?

Sarah Han is the commerce editor at Allure, where she has been covering the best beauty deals for sales like Black Friday, Cyber Monday, and Amazon Prime Day for 4 years (and 8 years in total). Previously, she served as an associate editor at BuzzFeed, where she spearheaded coverage of … Read MoreCommerce Editor

• Instagram
• X
• LinkedIn

Keywordsshoppingadvent calendarsgift ideasgift guidesHolidayChristmasRead MoreShoppingThe 37 Best Luxury Beauty Gifts, Because You’re Fancy and You Know ItGo on, make someone's year.37 slidesNO RETURNS33 Best Practical Gifts That Are as Chic as They Are FunctionalThe best kind of present is one they'll actually use on the reg.33 slidesShopping42 Unique Gifts for People Who Have EverythingLet us help you do the (nearly) impossible.42 slidesNORDY KNOWSThe 23 Best Nordstrom Gifts of 2024, According to a Shopping EditorJust sayin'!23 slidesMAKE IT PERSONAL31 Best Personalized Gifts That Are Oh So ThoughtfulPrepare for "aww's" all around.31 slidesShopping53 Best Gifts for Women Who Love Beauty, According to Allure EditorsIt's the thought that counts, and these thoughts are really good.Skin6 Best Lip Masks for a Soft, Plump, and Flake-Free FeelSmooth away chapped lips with these moisturizing treatments.SkinThe Allure Best of Beauty Hall of Fame Just Keeps GrowingMeet some of the winningest products in red-seal history.Lips9 Best Tinted Lip Balms for Equal Parts Moisture and ColorThe Goldilocks option of lipsticks and lip balms.Lips9 Best Lip Oils That Offer All of the Gloss and None of the GloopOur crystal ball foresees mega shine in your future.Skin48 Best Gifts for Teen Girls That Are Anything But BasicThey're a tough crowd to shop for but we've got you covered.Skin7 Best Cleansing Balms to Melt Makeup in SecondsNo tugging, no stinging—just soft, glowing skin.

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

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

Wavy hair is that girl—effortlessly cool, perfectly undone, and full of personality. But finding the best products for wavy hair can take some serious trial and error. Many of the more popular options on the market cater to straight-up curls or pin-straight hair, giving less love to the in-between. And while it might seem low-maintenance at first glance, waves have their challenges. Without the right formulas, they can lose their bounce, become lackluster, or get tangly and unmanageable. Overly heavy products, and your waves fall flat; too light, and frizz takes over.

To strike the perfect balance, we tested countless products and asked hairstylists for their expertise and recommendations for wave-enhancing products that keep your hair soft, defined, and full of life, whether you air-dry regularly or are in a committed relationship with your hair dryer. Scroll on for favorites from editors and stylists for your most amazing waves yet.

Our Top Wavy Hair Products

• Best Overall: Ouai Wave Spray, $30
• Best for Frizz Control: Cécred Moisture Sealing Lotion, $38
• Best Hold: Dae Hibiscus Wave Spray, $30
• Best for Dry Styling: Sachajuan Styling Cream, $39
• Best for Air-Drying: Briogeo Style + Treat Yuzu + Plum Oil Soft Power Air Dry Cream, $26
• Best for Volume: IGK Beach Club Texture Spray, $36
• Best Serum: Roz Milk Hair Serum, $52

Frequently Asked QuestionsAccordionItemContainerButtonLargeChevron

• How do I enhance my wavy hair?
• How do I make my wavy hair less frizzy?
• Should you oil wavy hair?
• Meet the Experts
• How we test and review products
• Our staff and testers

Whether you’re a wash-and-go minimalist or love the polished finish of a heat tool, we’ve got you covered. Ahead, discover expert-approved products for wavy hair that will define, hydrate, and celebrate your natural look in all its glory.

Best Overall: Ouai Wave Spray

Ouai

Wave Spray

$30

Amazon

$30

Ulta Beauty

$30

Revolve

Allure contributing editor Deanna Pai using the Ouai Wave Spray

Deanna Pai

Why we love it: Ouai’s Wave Spray offers effortless, lived-in waves every time—minus the crunch or dryness of your average salt texturizer. It’s a weightless mist that uses a blend of rice protein and coconut water to enhances your natural wave pattern and create a just-out-of-the-ocean vibe. It’s versatile, too: sSpritz it on damp hair for soft waves, refresh dry strands with a light mist, or spray and braid your hair before bed and wake up to tousled perfection.

Pai before using the Ouai Wave Spray

Deanna Pai

Pai after using the Ouai Wave Spray

Deanna Pai

Tester feedback from contributing commerce editor Deanna Pai

AccordionItemContainerButtonLargeChevron

“I've been using this for the better part of a decade—it's just that good. While it doesn't have great frizz control, it's unmatched at giving me defined waves and lots of bounce. I consider it a worthwhile tradeoff, especially on days when it's not humid.” —Deanna Pai, contributing commerce editor

More to know

AccordionItemContainerButtonLargeChevron

• Key ingredients: rice protein, coconut water
• What you'll notice: enhancing texture and soft, natural waves

Best for Frizz: Cecred Moisture Sealing Lotion

Cécred

Moisture Sealing Lotion

$38

Ulta Beauty

Allure senior editor Jesa Marie Calaor applying the Cécred Moisture Sealing Lotion

Jesa Marie Calaor

Why we love it: This creamy-as-heck Cecred Moisture Sealing Lotion comes straight from the mind of Béyonce’s mom, Tina Knowles. It’s part styler, part leave-in, though cosmetic chemist Perry Romanowski calls it “standard conditioner with a different name.” Expect reduced frizz, a surge of moisture, and softly defined waves that carry you from desk to dusk. Apply it to damp hair and air-dry or style with heat. Keep in mind that this isn’t a heat protectant, so pair it with something to keep your strands safe during straightening or blow-drying.

Calaor before applying the Cécred Moisture Sealing Lotion

Jesa Marie Calaor

Calaor after applying the Cécred Moisture Sealing Lotion

Jesa Marie Calaor

Tester feedback from senior editor Jesa Marie Calaor

AccordionItemContainerButtonLargeChevron

“Two or three quarter-size dollops of this emollient lotion help smooth my frizz and define my waves. I dispense it onto my hands, massage it into my poofy waves (dry or wet), and loosely tie my hair into a loose, low bun. Whenever I release it, it looks way smoother—staying that way for the rest of the day. It smells amazing, too. I get comments like, ‘What fragrance are you wearing?’ on the woody, clean scent whenever I wear my hair down.” —Jesa Marie Calaor, senior editor

More to know

AccordionItemContainerButtonLargeChevron

• Key ingredients: glycerin, shea butter, olive oil
• What you’ll notice: sleeker, easier to brush hair

Best Hold: Dae Hibiscus Wave Spray

Dae

Hibiscus Wave Spray

$30

Amazon

$30

Sephora

Allure managing editor Alessandra Foresto applying the Dae Hibiscus Wave Spray

Alessandra Foresto

Why we love it: Hibiscus leads the charge in Dae’s Wave Spray, moisturizing, softening, and styling waves like a breeze. The light hold helps your style last way longer than it would sans spray, and the buildable formula means you can go subtle or pile it on for a more textured look. Alongside elasticity-boosting hibiscus, you’ll find conditioning prickly pear oil and restorative moringa seed oil. The scent? Fruity, fresh, and more than welcome.

Foresto before applying the Dae Hibiscus Wave Spray

Alessandra Foresto

Foresto after applying the Dae Hibiscus Wave Spray

Alessandra Foresto

Tester feedback from managing editor Alessandra Foresto

AccordionItemContainerButtonLargeChevron

”My hair has gotten straighter and straighter as the years go by, and while I used to be able to air-dry and get perfect S waves without any product help, that's no longer the case. To get a more evenly distributed set of waves nowadays, I need a little hold, but I hate feeling like my hair is crunchy or too oily, so I prefer to stay away from mousses and gels. Instead, I like the buildable properties (and delicious tropical smell) of this creamy spray. I use a few spritzes on damp hair and braid my hair into pigtails or space buns after washing it for beachy waves. On day 2, I use a tiny, tiny bit more on dry hair and use a flatiron to give my waves more definition without making them feel sticky (and finish things up with an oil for extra shine and frizz control). If I'm stretching into day 3, I spray again and scrunch my hair up to go back to messy waves.” —Alessandra Foresto, managing editor

More to know

AccordionItemContainerButtonLargeChevron

• Key ingredients: hibiscus, prickly pear oil, moringa oil
• What you’ll notice: style-extending, softening

Best for Dry Styling: Sachajuan Styling Cream

Sachajuan

Styling Cream

$39

Dermstore

$39

Revolve

Allure contributing commerce writer Annie Blackman applying the Sachajuan Styling Cream

Annie Blackman

Why we love it: The Sachajuan Styling Cream is a multitasker that turns 'meh' hair days into actually good ones. Packed with the brand’s signature Ocean Silk Technology, it smooths, defines, and adds shine without heaviness or stickiness. Whether you leave your waves to air-dry naturally or straighten them for a sleek finish, this formula keeps hair soft, manageable, and protected from heat damage. With continued use, you can expect boosted strand strength and less breakage. Wins all around.

Blackman before applying the Sachajuan Styling Cream

Annie Blackman

Blackman after applying the Sachajuan Styling Cream

Annie Blackman

Tester feedback from contributing commerce writer Annie Blackman

AccordionItemContainerButtonLargeChevron

“I really like Sachajuan’s Styling Cream for its not-too-soft-not-too-strong hold and salon-esque scent. If I’m working with dry hair, I mist it with my spray bottle, scrunch the product into the ends of my hair, and then diffuse it with my Dyson Supersonic. The result is a nice amount of texture and wave.” —Annie Blackman, contributing commerce writer

More to know

AccordionItemContainerButtonLargeChevron

• Key ingredients: hydrolyzed wheat protein, red algae extract, panthenol
• What you'll notice: heat-protected styling and silky smooth definition

Best for Air-Drying: Briogeo Style + Treat Yuzu + Plum Oil Soft Power Air Dry Cream

Briogeo

Style + Treat Yuzu + Plum Oil Soft Power Air Dry Cream

$26

Amazon

$26

Nordstrom

$26

Revolve

Allure former commerce writer Jennifer Hussein applying the Briogeo Style + Treat Yuzu + Plum Oil Soft Power Air Dry Cream

Jennifer Hussein

Why we love it: If soft, heat-free hair is your dream, Briogeo Style + Treat Yuzu + Plum Oil Soft Power Air Dry Cream is about to be your go-to. The creamy yet lightweight formula smooths and hydrates, enhancing your natural waves while reducing frizz for lively, touchable strands that feel as good as they look. It’s perfect for those wash-and-wear days when you want effortless, polished hair. Yuzu extract protects against environmental stressors, while plum oil delivers a dose of moisture to leave hair looking soft, healthy, and ready for compliments.

Hussein before applying the Briogeo Style + Treat Yuzu + Plum Oil Soft Power Air Dry Cream

Jennifer Hussein

Hussein after applying the Briogeo Style + Treat Yuzu + Plum Oil Soft Power Air Dry Cream

Jennifer Hussein

Tester feedback from former commerce writer Jennifer Hussein

AccordionItemContainerButtonLargeChevron

“Briogeo's air-dry cream is one of the few wave enhancers I've tried that doesn't leave my hair with a crunchy feel. In fact, it leaves my usually -frizzy strands with a soft, smooth texture that I love running my hands through. This cream turns into a weightless oil as I scrunch it in, so I can pack on product without a greasy texture forming.” —Jennifer Hussein, former commerce writer

More to know

AccordionItemContainerButtonLargeChevron

• Key ingredients: yuzu extract, plum oil, super B-complex
• What you'll notice: frizz-free air-dried styles with a soft, natural finish

Best for Volume: IGK Beach Club Texture Spray

IGK

Beach Club Texture Spray

$36 $32 (11% off)

Amazon

$36

Nordstrom

$36

Revolve

Allure former shopping market editor Angela Trakoshis applying the IGK Beach Club Texture Spray

Angela Trakoshis

Why we love it: If you live miles from the ocean but still crave a touch of beachiness to your hair, IGK’s Beach Club Texture Spray is the next best thing. It delivers effortless volume and tousled waves with zero crunch or dryness. This salt-free formula adds buildable texture and gentle grit while locking in moisture, making it perfect for achieving that effortless, tousled look. Think soft, touchable hair with all the body and bounce of a day spent oceanside, minus the saltwater.

Trakoshis before applying the IGK Beach Club Texture Spray

Angela Trakoshis

Trakoshis after applying the IGK Beach Club Texture Spray

Angela Trakoshis

Tester feedback from former shopping market editor Angela Trakoshis

AccordionItemContainerButtonLargeChevron

“Meet beach hair in a bottle, zero effort required. Spray, scrunch, and boom—this gives you instant beach waves without even leaving the house.” —Angela Trakoshis, former shopping market editor

More to know

AccordionItemContainerButtonLargeChevron

• Key ingredients: glycerin, hydrolyzed wheat protein
• What you'll notice: tousled, beachy volume and texture sans dryness

Best Serum: Roz Milk Hair Serum

RŌZ

Milk Hair Serum

$52

Amazon

$52

Nordstrom

$52

Revolve

Allure contributing commerce editor Deanna Pai applying the Roz Milk Hair Serum

Deanna Pai

Why we love it: If you’re craving versatility, turn to Roz Milk Hair Serum. This 3-in-1 leave-in treatment detangles, smooths, and enhances definition—whether air-drying, blow-drying, or just refreshing. “You’re ultimately looking for a product that helps your hair air-dry nicely, with just enough hydration without weighing it down. This formula is an all-around perfect product, and I always recommend it for my clients looking to enhance their natural waves,” says LA-based hairstylist Richard Grant. It’s lightweight, nourishing, and leaves hair soft, frizz-free, and manageable, regardless of how you style it.

Pai before applying the Roz Milk Hair Serum

Deanna Pai

Pai after applying the Roz Milk Hair Serum

Deanna Pai

Tester feedback from Pai

AccordionItemContainerButtonLargeChevron

“While I love Ouai's Wave Spray, my hair sometimes needs more moisture—especially when the weather is dry, cold, or both. I reach for this hair serum and scrunch it in with my hands to get a softer, more lived-in look. It does a bang-up job of controlling flyaways and staticky hairs, and I love that my hair always feels touchable and healthy.” —Deanna Pai, contributing commerce editor

More to know

AccordionItemContainerButtonLargeChevron

• Key ingredients: BotaniComplex, red algae extract, panthenol
• What you'll notice: frizz-free air dries, smooth blowouts, and effortless refreshes.

More products for wavy hair we love:

• Looking for that effortlessly cool, lived-in vibe? Oribe Matte Waves Texture creates a tousled, piecey effect reminiscent of a salt spray, evoking breezy beach days. This lightweight lotion enhances natural texture while adding grip for styling and a matte finish. “Since it leaves a little grit, I suggest starting with a small amount on damp hair and then using a diffuser to lock it in,” says hairstylist Joseph Chase.
• When wavy hair meets humidity, frizz often follows, but it doesn’t have to. Olaplex No.10 Bond Shaper Curl Defining Gel provides smooth, defined waves with a flexible, crunch-free hold—which might be why it won a 2025 Best of Beauty Award. “For wavy hair, lighter products like gels and lightweight creams are perfect for enhancing your natural texture without weighing strands down,” says L.A.-based hairstylist Cheryl Bergamy.
• Meet the modern-day mousse that’s your newfound secret to touchable, flexible hold. Rahua’s Aloe Vera Hair Mousse locks in flexible, medium hold while delivering volume, body, and shine. The plant-powered formula smooths and hydrates with organic aloe vera, sugarcane provides definition and long-lasting hold, and guayusa protects from damage while promoting healthy growth.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I enhance my wavy hair?

“Enhancing your waves always starts with the correct products,” says Los Angeles-based hairstylist Sophie Rose. She suggests using a light moisturizer to detangle wet hair, followed by a mousse or light gel. “Scrunch the product into the hair using your fingers as a diffuser, and flip your head over while scrunching for more volume,” she adds.

For refreshing waves, Grant recommends skipping the rewash and trying this little hack instead: “Mix a leave-in conditioner with water and lightly spritz it onto your hair,” he says. “Then, do a quick diffuse to redefine your waves.” This simple method revives your natural texture while keeping your routine fuss-free.

How do I make my wavy hair less frizzy?

Keeping wavy hair frizz-free comes down to hydration and the right styling techniques. “In theory, the more the hair is hydrated, the less frizz you'll have, so it’s about finding that balance between a leave-in and an oil, depending on the density of your hair,” says Grant. Rose emphasizes the importance of letting your hair dry completely before touching it. “Try not to touch the wave until it’s 100% dry,” she says. “How your hair looks when it’s wet is generally how it will look when it’s dry. Whether you use a diffuser on low heat or let it air-dry, the wave pattern needs to set.” For best results, apply a leave-in conditioner for hydration and follow with a product that offers hold to keep frizz at bay.

Should you oil wavy hair?

Oil on wavy hair can be beneficial, but it’s all about balance and application. “I don’t recommend using too much oil on wavy hair, but you can use a light oil on the ends if you have heat or chemical damage,” says Rose. “Just avoid the roots because they will weigh down the hair.” Grant agrees that oil can play a helpful role in hydration. “I wouldn’t apply oil to the roots but focus more on the mid-shaft to the ends.” When used conservatively, oil can be a great way to address dryness and frizz while maintaining the bounce and lightness of your waves.

Meet the experts

• Sophie Rose, a Los Angeles-based hairstylist
• Richard Grant, a Los Angeles-based hair stylist
• Joseph Chase, a bi-coastal hair stylist
• Cheryl Bergamy, a Los Angeles-based hair stylist
• Perry Romanowski, a Chicago-based cosmetic chemist

How we test and review products

We always enlist a range of testers for our makeup vertical, but hair-care products and tools are another story. While there are certainly products that can be used across different hair textures, lengths, curl patterns, thicknesses, colors (natural and unnatural), and needs, hair products are often created with specific consumers in mind. Many are created in order to address a concern (dandruff, breakage, brittleness) or to work most effectively for a specific hair type (4C curls, wavy hair, gray hair). You wouldn't want to pick up a purple shampoo that’s only been reviewed by someone with, say, auburn hair, or a diffuser that’s never been tested by anyone with curls—right?

For our review of the best products for wavy hair, we enlisted the help of multiple editors, writers, contributors, and dermatologists to find the most hydrating, strand-softening formulas out there. Testers considered performance across four primary categories: efficacy, texture and experience, fragrance, and packaging. For more on what's involved in our reporting, check out our complete reviews process and methodology page.

Our staff and testers

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

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

Getty ImagesSave StorySave this storySave StorySave this story

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

Here's the thing about a great set of bangs: they can do it all. When your bangs fit your face and your style just so, everything seems more elevated, even a humble white T-shirt and jeans ensemble. Just ask Demi Moore, who relied on fringe to help her craft her character in the new Gucci short film, The Tiger.

Moore plays a character named Barbara Gucci in the film, which was directed by Spike Jonze and Halina Reijn to introduce the Demna era at the Italian fashion house. She turned to hairstylist Dimitris Giannetos to help bring Barbara Gucci to life, and that required bangs. The bangs were a collaborative event between the filmmakers, Moore, Giannetos, and Demna, Gucci's creative director. “Demna had the idea of the ‘Gucci bangs,’” Giannetos shared. “And [of course] he always has the right vision.” After the group agreed on the fringe, Giannetos got to work, crating a set of brow-skimming curtain bangs that blended beautifully into Moore's signature long dark hair.

The bangs looked effortlessly cool with Moore's heading-to-set outfit of a T-shirt and denim, but they transformed into something completely different when she got into costume and character. Demi Moore the person's bangs were a little bit rock 'n' roll, but Barbara Gucci's bangs were more polished, hitting right at the brow and brushed straight across her forehead with piecey separation, swapping the undone look for a “ladies who lunch” aesthetic—especially with the addition of a red Gucci jacket. One set of bangs, two completely different vibes.

Instagram content

In the film, Moore's character Barbara, the “Head of Gucci International and Chairman of California,” is throwing a glamorous party for her family, but there's a lot going on under the surface, and things start to get a little… messy.

Moore's bangs may have been a one-time thing for the movie—she's back to the fringe-free Demi once more—but if she ever wants to bring them back, we're 100 percent on board!

Collage: Gabrielle Langdon; Source images: Courtesy of brands

Save StorySave this storySave StorySave this story

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

When it comes to achieving a dewy, hydrated complexion, nothing delivers the way the best hyaluronic acid serums do. Don't be fooled by the fact that it has "acid" in its name—unlike its exfoliating counterparts, hyaluronic acid is a hydrating skin-care ingredient that works for everyone, even if you have sensitive skin.

Naturally produced by our bodies, hyaluronic acid promotes elasticity and skin hydration by holding up to 1,000 times its weight in water. And while it's a godsend in the winter, it can also be a game-changer in the summer—for when typical moisturizers can feel heavy and oppressive. Incorporate one of our favorite, dermatologist-approved HA serums below into your routine and lock in the hydrating, barrier-restoring goodness with a moisturizing face cream. Then, say hello to your plumpest, dewiest complexion yet.

Our Top Hyaluronic Acid Serums

• Best Overall: SkinCeuticals Hyaluronic Acid Intensifier Multi-Glycan, $120
• Best Drugstore: e.l.f. Skin Holy Hydration! Thirst Burst Drops, $13
• Best for Brightening: Osea Dream Night Serum, $88
• Best for Plumping: SkinMedica HA5 Rejuvenating Hydrator, $184
• Best for Fine Lines: Alastin HA Immerse Serum, $127
• Best for Sensitive Skin: La Roche Posay Hyalu B5 Hyaluronic Acid Serum, $40
• Best Korean: Wellage Real Hyaluronic Blue Ampoule, $21

Frequently Asked QuestionsAccordionItemContainerButtonLargeChevron

• What are the benefits of hyaluronic acid?
• Is it safe for all skin types?
• Is there a downside to hyaluronic acid?
• How we test and review products
• Our staff and testers
• Meet the experts

Best Overall: SkinCeuticals Hyaluronic Acid Intensifier Multi-Glycan

SkinCeuticals

Hyaluronic Acid Intensifier Multi-Glycan

$120

SkinCeuticals

$120

Dermstore

$120

Bluemercury

Allure senior editor Jesa Marie Calaor applying SkinCeuticals Hyaluronic Acid Intensifier Multi-Glycan

Jesa Marie Calaor

Why it's worth it: The 2024 Best of Beauty Award-winning SkinCeuticals Hyaluronic Acid Intensifier Multi-Glycan is intended for surface hydration, so it lessens the look of fine lines and folds. This updated rendition of the brand’s original humectant-forward serum contains the same ingredient lineup as its predecessor—hydrating hyaluronic acid, tone-brightening licorice root, vitamin E-rich purple rice extract—with the addition of proxylane, SkinCeuticals’s proprietary post-biotic ferment extract. This ingredient increases your skin’s levels of glycan, complex sugars that are naturally present in your skin, giving skin a plumper look and supple feel. This skin-plumping serum is a good option to enhance the volumizing effects both after and between injectables, like hyaluronic acid-based dermal fillers.

Tester feedback from Allure senior editor Jesa Marie Calaor

AccordionItemContainerButtonLargeChevron

“Hyaluronic acid serums are a must in my routine for my extra-dry skin with rosacea, but many of the formulas I've tried are too runny or feel like they disappear seconds after application. This is by far the easiest and most comforting serum I've used. It is thick for a serum (no drippy mess here), glides along my face with ease, and leaves it soft and soothed.” —Jesa Marie Calaor, senior editor

More to know

AccordionItemContainerButtonLargeChevron

• Key ingredients: hyaluronic acid, licorice root, purple rice, proxylane
• Who it's for: everyone

Best Drugstore: E.L.F. Holy Hydration! Thirst Burst Drops

e.l.f. skin

Holy Hydration! Thirst Burst Drops

$13

Amazon

$13

Ulta Beauty

Allure commerce editor Sarah Han applying e.l.f. Skin’s Holy Hydration! Thirst Burst Drops

Why it's worth it: Talk about quenching your skin’s thirst—E.L.F. Holy Hydration! Thirst Burst Drops earned its 2025 Best of Beauty Award because it truly lives up to the name. Lightweight hyaluronic acid floods skin with hydration without ever feeling heavy, while a hibiscus complex (rich in antioxidants) helps boost collagen and your skin’s own hyaluronic acid production for extra plumpness and glow. Another standout ingredient of this formula is its 5% niacinamide, which evens out tone, refines pores, and smooths rough patches. Layer it under makeup, mix a drop into your foundation, or wear it solo. However you use it, expect bouncy, dewy skin that stays refreshed all day.

Tester feedback from commerce editor Sarah Han

AccordionItemContainerButtonLargeChevron

"Whenever I don’t get enough sleep (or even when I do, honestly), a brightening serum is a must in my morning routine. Thirst Burst Drops offers the best of both worlds, packing in both hydrating and brightening ingredients that perk up my skin straight away. The gel texture melts right into my skin and provides a bit of tackiness (not stickiness) that really grips onto my sunscreen and makeup. Glowy, radiant base? Check, check." —Sarah Han, commerce editor

More to know

AccordionItemContainerButtonLargeChevron

• Key ingredients: hyaluronic acid, hibiscus complex, niacinamide
• Who it's for: people with oily, dry, or combination skin

Best for Brightening: Osea Dream Night Serum

Osea

Dream Night Serum

$88

Nordstrom

$88

Ulta Beauty

$88

Revolve

Allure contributing commerce editor Christa Joanna Lee applying Osea’s Dream Night Serum

Why it's worth it: Not only does the lavender scent of Osea Dream Night Serum help set a calming tone as you drift off, it’s also a reminder that this retinol-based treatment belongs in your nighttime routine. Featuring bio-retinol derived from green microalgae, it provides the same line-smoothing and texture-refining perks as traditional retinol, but in a gentler, more stable form. Firming peptides, hyaluronic acid, plus antioxidant-rich red algae and spirulina (part of Osea’s sea-inspired skin-care philosophy) work while you sleep to hydrate, strengthen, and protect. By morning, skin looks plumper, smoother, and refreshed (sweet dreams, indeed).

Tester feedback from contributing commerce writer Christa Joanna Lee

AccordionItemContainerButtonLargeChevron

“I’m a little obsessed with lavender—I use a lavender pillow spray every night—so this serum’s scent feels instantly comforting. The texture is slightly thicker than most serums I’ve tried (a plus, since it doesn’t slip right out of the dropper), and it sinks in within seconds. Even with retinol in the mix—the brand doesn’t disclose the percentage—I had zero irritation on my sensitive skin.” —Christa Joanna Lee, contributing commerce writer

More to know

AccordionItemContainerButtonLargeChevron

• Key ingredients: hyaluronic acid, bio retinol (extracted from green microalgae), red seaweed, peptides
• Who it's for: people with loss of skin firmness and elasticity

Best for Plumping: SkinMedica HA5 Rejuvenating Hydrator

SkinMedica

HA5 Rejuvenating Hydrator

$184

Amazon

$184

Dermstore

Allure contributing commerce editor Deanna Pai applying the SkinMedica HA5 Rejuvenating Hydrator

Deanna Pai

Why it's worth it: SkinMedica HA5 Hyaluronic Acid Serum may seem like it’s just showing off with its five different types of hyaluronic acid—sodium hyaluronate, time-release, nano, cross-linked, and uncross-linked—but they’re all put to very good use in this skin-smoothing formula. The HA quintet is accompanied by peptides, antioxidant-packed grape flower extract, and polysaccharides that help support yet another hyaluronic acid: the kind your own body makes. Think of it as a team of personal trainers spotting your skin as it gets better at maintaining its moisture.

Tester feedback from Allure contributing commerce editor Deanna Pai

AccordionItemContainerButtonLargeChevron

“I don't use a hyaluronic acid serum all the time, but when I do—namely, in the summer, when my naturally oily skin doesn't need a ton of moisture—it's this one. It disappears instantly (which is why you can't see it in my video!) but keeps my skin calm, comfortable, and plump.” —Deanna Pai, contributing commerce editor

More to know

AccordionItemContainerButtonLargeChevron

• Key ingredients: hyaluronic acid, peptides, grape flower extract, polysaccharides
• Who it's for: all skin types, but especially dry, mature skin

Best for Fine Lines: Alastin HA Immerse Serum

Alastin Skincare

HA Immerse Serum

$127 $118 (7% off)

Amazon

$134

Alastin Skincare

Allure commerce director Shanna Shipin applying the Alastin HA Immersive Serum on her face.

Shanna Shipin

Why it's worth it: Alastin's HA Immerse Serum doesn't just supply skin with hyaluronic acid from the outside in. Rather, this strategic formula also contains a peptide that encourages the skin to produce its own hyaluronic acid for long-lasting hydration. And, as if that weren't good enough, this overachiever contains yet another peptide that stymies the breakdown of your skin's natural hyaluronic acid, keeping its levels high over time. Deanne Mraz, MD, a board-certified dermatologist in Westport, Connecticut, previously called Alastin one of her go-tos for "replenishing fine lines and lost volume," making it a good choice for those with mature skin types.

Tester feedback from Allure shopping director Shanna Shipin

AccordionItemContainerButtonLargeChevron

"To me, the mark of a noteworthy product (especially a serum) is one that your routine feels truly lonely without. That's how I feel about Alastin’s HA Immerse. It makes any moisturizer I layer over all the more soothing, hydrating, and effective, but even without any next step, this serum helps me avoid the too-tight feeling I get after waiting too long to moisturize after washing my face. As someone with facial eczema flare-ups and borderline-mature skin, ever since using this serum, I've noticed fewer flakes and an all-over more supple look and feel." —Shanna Shipin, shopping director

More to know

AccordionItemContainerButtonLargeChevron

• Key ingredients: hyaluronic acid, peptides, silver mushroom extract
• Who it's for: anyone dealing with chronic dryness, and those with mature skin

Best for Sensitive Skin: La Roche-Posay Hyalu B5 Pure Hyaluronic Acid Serum

La Roche-Posay

Hyalu B5 Pure Hyaluronic Acid Serum

$40 $30 (25% off)

Amazon

$40

Dermstore

Allure commerce producer Sarah Hoffmann applying the La Roche-Posay Hyalu B5 Pure Hyaluronic Acid Serum

Sarah Hoffmann

Why it's worth it: La Roche-Posay's Hyalu B5 Pure Hyaluronic Acid Serum combines powerful hydration and calming ingredients, so your skin stays plump, protected, and pampered. “Pure hyaluronic acid locks in moisture, madecassosides—which are wound-healing agents derived from Centella asiatica—nourish your skin barrier, and vitamin B5 soothes and hydrates,” says Alexandra Bowles, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in Cincinnati, OH. We love that this relatively affordable serum is safe for all skin types, even those prone to sensitivity (since it's been allergy-tested). If your skin can handle retinoids, try pairing this hydrating formula with a retinol cream if you want to address (and/or help prevent) signs of aging while minimizing any retinoid-induced irritation.

Tester feedback from Allure commerce producer Sarah Hoffmann

AccordionItemContainerButtonLargeChevron

“There are few skin issues in my life that a good hyaluronic acid serum can't fix. Dry patches? Hyaluronic acid. Dull skin? Hyaluronic acid. Clogged pores? You wouldn't think it, but hyaluronic acid genuinely helps balance my skin so it's not producing the excess oil that pisses my pores off. La Roche-Posay's Hyalu is the platonic ideal of an HA serum to me: medium viscosity, non-sticky, and vaguely aquatic smelling. My skin is always better off when I make the time to stack it in ahead of moisturizer.” —Sarah Hoffmann, commerce producer

More to know

AccordionItemContainerButtonLargeChevron

• Key ingredients: hyaluronic acid, Centella asiatica, vitamin B5
• Who it's for: people prone to redness

Best Korean: Wellage Real Hyaluronic Blue Ampoule

Wellage

Real Hyaluronic Blue Ampoule

$21

Amazon

Allure contributor Devon Abelman applying the Wellage Real Hyaluronic Blue Ampoule

Devon Abelman

Why it's worth it: Starting at a mere $14, you can’t afford not to try the Wellage Real Hyaluronic Blue Ampoule. Housed under the same manufacturer behind some of the most popular injectables in South Korea, this no-frills approach to HA is ideal for anyone who really wants to lock into the hydration-increasing ingredient, especially considering it offers nine different molecular weights of it. (Glass skin, here we come.) With a texture that feels more or less like water, it’s a fragrance-free K-beauty find that’s easy to squeeze into an especially thirsty skincare routine, whether it has three steps or 13.

Tester feedback from Allure contributor Devon Abelman

AccordionItemContainerButtonLargeChevron

“Wellage’s Real Hyaluronic Blue Ampoule is like blue Gatorade for your face. Although they are the same color, the serum is free of artificial colors—but feels just as instantly replenishing and intensely hydrating as taking a big gulp of Gatorade when you’re dehydrated or under the weather. Real Hyaluronic Blue Ampoule has a liquidy, toner-like consistency, so it’s super lightweight and rapidly absorbent. On days when my acne-prone skin feels sensitized or inflamed, I love putting on several layers to load it up with ultra-soothing nourishment. No matter how much I put on though, it always leaves my skin bouncier and glossier. I think I might need a lifetime supply of this.” —Devon Abelman, contributor

More to know

AccordionItemContainerButtonLargeChevron

• Key ingredients: hyaluronic acid, panthenol
• Who it's for: all skin types, including sensitive

Other hyaluronic acid serums to consider

• If you want an easy way to slip even more hyaluronic acid into your regimen, reach for Paula's Choice Boost Hyaluronic Acid Booster. “This HA booster is another great option that combines hydrating hyaluronic acid with vitamin B5 (panthenol) to strengthen the skin while giving a plump and softer look,” says Peter Bittar, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in Miami. Blend it with your go-to serum, moisturizer, or eye cream—or apply it alone—for an instant hydration upgrade.
• If your compromised skin barrier could use a little extra love, CeraVe Hydrating Hyaluronic Acid Serum is a hardworking yet budget-friendly pick. “It goes on light and absorbs fast, plus it’s got ceramides to boost hydration and vitamin B5 (panthenol) to help strengthen and protect skin,” says Dr. Bittar. And because it’s fragrance-free, it’s super gentle while still restoring moisture and bounce.
• If you’re trying to address dark spots or uneven tone in addition to hydration, Avène Hyaluron Activ B3 Concentrated Plumping Serum features niacinamide, which helps improve uneven tone. It doesn’t slack with ample amounts of hyaluronic acid, either: “It has one of the highest concentrations of HA (1.5%) on the market. This combo can noticeably plump to give a dewy look and improve tone while soothing dry and sensitive skin, while going on silky smooth,” says Dr. Bittar.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the benefits of hyaluronic acid?

Known as a humectant, hyaluronic acid is "great at holding water and giving skin resilience and firmness," New York City-based board-certified dermatologist Doris Day, MD, tells Allure. Although we naturally produce hyaluronic acid in our bodies, as we age, the quantities decrease (similar to collagen), making our skin more susceptible to dehydration.

With consistent use of hyaluronic acid, you'll likely notice an immediate improvement in the hydration of your skin, Jacquelyn Sink, MD, a Chicago-based board-certified dermatologist, tells Allure. "Long-term benefits are seen as early as two weeks with continued improvement through several months," she adds. All year round, our skin craves moisture to counteract a range of skin-care concerns, including sun exposure, signs of aging (such as fine lines), loss of elasticity, and dehydrated skin.

As with all ingredients, over-the-counter, topical products don't have the same benefits as prescriptions or in-office treatments—but that doesn't mean you shouldn't incorporate them into your skin-care routine. "We can inject hyaluronic acid into the deeper layers of the skin to help restore lost volume, but when used in creams, lotions, and serums, it can also do wonders for rejuvenation and hydration." You can quite literally get hyaluronic acid fillers at your board-certified dermatologist's office.

Is hyaluronic acid safe for all skin types?

With their non-irritating nature, hyaluronic acid serums are generally usable across multiple skin types, including sensitive skin, according to Dr. Sink. To get the most benefits out of your serum experience, she shares her preferred application method. "Hyaluronic acid serums are best applied to slightly damp skin and before applying other products," Dr. Sink explains. "Moisturizing with a thicker cream or serum afterward can help lock in hydration."

As we previously mentioned, your skin's level of hyaluronic acid decreases with age, so if you're looking to maintain your moisture barrier and replenish hydration levels, you may want to consider incorporating hyaluronic acid-infused products into your daily skin-care routine. (You'll also see HA commonly listed as sodium hyaluronate, a stabilized version of the ingredient.)

Is there a downside to hyaluronic acid?

Overall, hyaluronic acid is a gentle, non-active ingredient that's suitable for most skin types. According to Marisa Garshick, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in New York City, there are no known side effects of utilizing hyaluronic acid—it's produced in our bodies, after all—but if you’re prone to sensitivity, consult with your dermatologist before incorporating a new product into your routine. “Active ingredients, which tend to feel irritating on sensitive skin, and synthetics, like fragrance and dyes, could be the culprits of any irritation,” she says.

Meet the experts

• Peter Bittar, MD, a board-certified dermatologist at Miami Dermatology & Laser Institute, based in Miami
• Alexandra Bowles, MD, a board-certified dermatologist at MONA Dermatology based in Cincinnati, OH
• Doris Day, MD, a New York City-based board-certified dermatologist
• Marisa Garshick, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in New York City
• Deanne Mraz, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in Westport, Connecticut
• Jacquelyn Sink, MD, a Chicago-based board-certified dermatologist

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 review of the best hyaluronic acid serums, we enlisted the help of multiple editors, writers, contributors, and dermatologists interviewed for the piece—who all have different skin concerns and types, desired outcome (i.e., want a brighter complexion), and whether one product was tested and suitable across multiple skin types. Testers considered performance across three primary categories: efficacy, ingredients, and 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 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.