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Using one of the best face exfoliators is a key step in any skin-care routine (yes, even if you have sensitive skin). These formulas work hard to slough away dead skin cells and unclog pores to minimize the look of fine lines and boost radiance—plus, they help the rest of your skin-care products absorb better. Whether you prefer physical or chemical exfoliants, using one regularly can help reveal a smoother, more even-toned complexion. From serums with alpha and beta hydroxy acids that gently dissolve buildup, to gritty yet delicate scrubs that polish your skin, these are the exfoliators our editors actually use, and we’ve got the receipts (a.k.a. selfies) to prove it. Scroll on for our tried-and-loved picks, plus pro tips from board-certified derms to keep your skin smooth and clear for the long haul.

Our Top Face Exfoliators

• Best Overall: Dr. Dennis Gross Alpha Beta Universal Daily Peel, $94
• Best for Oily Skin: Elemis Dynamic Resurfacing Facial Pads, $69
• Best for Dry Skin: Eadem Cashmere Peel Milky Exfoliant & Hydrating Essence, $42
• Best for Sensitive Skin: Medik8 Press & Glow Daily Exfoliating PHA Tonic, $35

Frequently Asked QuestionsAccordionItemContainerButtonLargeChevron

• What are chemical exfoliators?
• What are physical exfoliators?
• Can you over-exfoliate?
• Meet the experts
• How we test and review products
• Our staff and testers

Best Overall: Dr. Dennis Gross Alpha Beta Universal Daily Peel

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Dr. Dennis Gross

Alpha Beta Universal Daily Peel

$94

Amazon

$94

Nordstrom

$94

Dermstore

Allure editor in chief Jessica Cruel applying the Dr. Dennis Gross Alpha Beta Universal Daily Peel

Jessica Cruel

Why it’s worth it: If the word “peel” makes you nervous, don’t worry—Dr. Dennis Gross’s Alpha Beta Universal Daily Peels are of the gentle variety. The two-step system is designed to exfoliate and nourish without irritation, so even sensitive skin types can get in on the glow. “These peel pads contain both alpha hydroxy and beta hydroxy acids to improve the appearance of pores, radiance, fine lines, texture, and tone,” Brendan Camp, MD, a New York-based double board-certified dermatologist, told Allure. Step one clears away dead skin and gunk with exfoliating acids like lactic, malic, and glycolic; step two adds in soothing, anti-aging ingredients like green tea and adenosine. You know what they say: Just a few swipes a day keeps dullness at bay.

Cruel after applying the Dr. Dennis Gross Alpha Beta Universal Daily Peel

Jessica Cruel

Former Allure features director Dianna Singh after applying the Dr. Dennis Gross Alpha Beta Universal Daily Peel

Dianna Singh

Tester feedback from editor in chief Jessica Cruel

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“Whenever someone asks me the best peel for beginners, I always point them to Dr. Dennis Gross. His portfolio of exfoliating pads suits both first-timers and experienced pros, and this Universal Peel sits right in the middle. Step 1 contains the exfoliating AHA and BHA acids. The second step is the neutralizer. The first part gives a slight tingle, and the second step is a true burn that lasts about 30 seconds. The glowy skin results are instant. I love that they come individually wrapped, which means they will never dry out. Plus, they are easy to throw in your toiletry bag for travel.” —Jessica Cruel, editor in chief

Tester feedback from former features director Dianna Singh

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"What may look like a makeup remover wipe at first glance is actually a pad packed with chemical exfoliators that help brighten instantly and improve discoloration over time. I first discovered these back when I was a beauty assistant (so, longer ago than I'd like to admit), and yet somehow I'm still pleasantly surprised by the next-day glow I get from using one of these at night." —Dianna Singh, former features director

More to know

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• Type: chemical
• Key ingredients: glycolic acid, lactic acid, salicylic acid, green tea, adenosine
• Fragrance-free: yes

Best for Oily Skin: Elemis Dynamic Resurfacing Facial Pads

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Elemis

Dynamic Resurfacing Facial Pads

$69

Amazon

Allure commerce editor Sarah Han using the Elemis Dynamic Resurfacing Facial Pads

Sarah Han

Why it’s worth it: Exfoliation doesn't get much easier than swiping on a pad. The Elemis Dynamic Resurfacing Facial Pads, a 2026 Best of Beauty Award winner, combine lactic acid with three enzymes that help loosen and remove dead skin cells before they can build up and contribute to clogged pores. That can give it an extra edge compared to other formulas: “Using two mechanisms could improve exfoliation without requiring a high concentration of either ingredient,” says Farhaad Riyaz, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in Plymouth, Michigan.

Each pad also has a textured side for a little extra buffing and a smooth side for a gentler swipe. While oily skin types will especially appreciate the pore-clearing benefits, our editors with dry and sensitive skin also noticed smoother, brighter skin without the usual post-exfoliation tightness, thanks in part to moisturizing ingredients like glycerin, betaine, and shea butter. Plus, in addition to being an exfoliant, "lactic acid is also a humectant, meaning it can help support skin hydration even while exfoliating,” adds Dawn Queen, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in New York City.

Han before using the Elemis Dynamic Resurfacing Facial Pads

Sarah Han

Han after using the Elemis Dynamic Resurfacing Facial Pads

Sarah Han

Tester feedback from commerce editor Sarah Han

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“No matter what time of the year it is, my combination skin needs consistent exfoliation to look its best—or, at the very least, brighter and more even-toned. By far, the easiest way to decongest my pores is whipping out one of the Elemis Dynamic Resurfacing Facial Pads and giving my T-zone a very proper run-through. Lactic acid is super effective at buffing away dead skin and uneven texture, and I swear my skin is noticeably softer and brighter with each use." —Sarah Han, commerce editor

More to know

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• Type: chemical and physical
• Key ingredients: lactic acid, enzymes, glycerin, betaine, shea butter
• Fragrance-free: no

Best for Dry Skin: Eadem Cashmere Peel Milky Exfoliant & Hydrating Essence

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Eadem

Cashmere Peel Milky Exfoliant & Hydrating Essence

$42

Amazon

$42

Shop

$42

Sephora

Allure contributing commerce writer Christa Joanna Lee applying the Eadem Cashmere Peel Milky Exfoliant & Hydrating Essence

Christa Joanna Lee

Why it’s worth it: If you still believe that the harsher the exfoliation, the better the results, Eadem's Cashmere Peel Milky Exfoliant & Hydrating Essence might change your mind. Unlike the watery, sometimes irritating formulas you might associate with exfoliating acids, this 2024 Allure Best of Beauty Award winner has a "milky, almost lotion-like texture that feels extra soothing if you have dry skin," says Mamina Turegano, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in New Orleans.

But don't mistake its gentle feel for a lack of exfoliating power. Dr. Turegano points to its 9% blend of "lactic, azelaic, and tranexamic acids" that "helps slough away dead skin cells, smooth rough patches, and fade the look of dark spots." And because dry skin needs moisture just as much as it needs exfoliation, panthenol helps support the skin barrier, while rice water and colloidal oatmeal help keep skin hydrated and soothed.

Lee before applying the Eadem Cashmere Peel Milky Exfoliant & Hydrating Essence

Christa Joanna Lee

Lee after applying the Eadem Cashmere Peel Milky Exfoliant & Hydrating Essence

Christa Joanna Lee

Tester feedback from contributing commerce writer Christa Joanna Lee

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“I already use prescription tretinoin every other day or every three days (depending on when I remember), so I like giving my skin a little extra boost with Eadem's Cashmere Peel Milky Exfoliant & Hydrating Essence on my off days. It's hard to believe this is technically a peel because it feels so gentle on my dry, sensitive skin. I do get a little redness afterward that lasts an hour or two, but that's pretty typical for me with any exfoliant (and my skin is prone to redness as a baseline). What I really like is how lightweight and hydrating it feels. My skin looks glowy once my redness dissipates, and it leaves a nice, smooth base for makeup.” —Christa Joanna Lee, contributing commerce writer

More to know

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• Type: chemical
• Key ingredients: 9% blend of lactic, azelaic, and tranexamic acids, panthenol, rice water, colloidal oatmeal
• Fragrance-free: yes

Best for Hyperpigmentation: Rose Ingleton MD SuperFruit Exfoliating Tonic

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Rose Ingleton MD

SuperFruit Exfoliating Tonic

$48

Amazon

$48

Shop

$48

Sephora

Allure social media manager Bianca Richards applying the Rose Ingleton MD SuperFruit Exfoliating Tonic

Bianca Richards

Why it’s worth it: Dark spots have a way of sticking around long after whatever caused them—whether that's acne, sun exposure, or inflammation—has cleared up. That's because excess melanin (the pigment that gives skin its color) can linger in the skin for months. The Rose Ingleton MD SuperFruit Exfoliating Tonic helps move things along with 8% glycolic acid, which exfoliates dead skin cells to gradually reveal a brighter, more even-looking complexion. “It’s very lightweight, and I especially like it for someone whose skin looks dull or uneven and wants that fresh, polished look without using a scrub,” says Cheryl Karcher, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in New York City

The 2026 Best of Beauty Award winner also contains a blend of Jamaican superfruit extracts, including sugarcane, orange, and lemon, plus licorice root extract to help fade the look of discoloration. And because glycolic acid can be drying, aloe, glycerin, and hyaluronic acid help keep skin hydrated. Still, 8% is on the stronger side for an at-home exfoliant, so ease into it, especially if you're already using retinol or other exfoliating acids.

Richards before applying the Rose Ingleton MD SuperFruit Exfoliating Tonic

Bianca Richards

Richards after applying the Rose Ingleton MD SuperFruit Exfoliating Tonic

Bianca Richards

Tester feedback from social media manager Bianca Richards

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“Even though I don't tend to pick at my stubborn breakouts, since they sit deep beneath the skin, they leave dark marks when they leave. I love Rose Ingleton MD's gel cleanser (another Best of Beauty winning product), and pairing that with the Exfoliating Toner and moisturizer of choice has given my skin-care routine the upgrade I desperately needed! Because glycolic acid is one of the strongest acids to slough away dead skin, I have to be extremely cautious with how many times I use this product and deciding what other skin-care products I pair it with. I prefer using this twice a week at night with a hydrating serum and thick moisturizer to implement a lot of hydration back into the skin, and within 1.5 weeks of use, a blemish mark below my chin has quickly faded down without leaving any signs of irritation. It's a miracle product for those who are looking to incorporate a gentle exfoliant in their routine!" —Bianca Richards, social media manager

More to know

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• Type: chemical
• Key ingredients: 8% glycolic acid, Jamaican superfruit extracts, licorice root extract, aloe vera, glycerin, hyaluronic acid
• Fragrance-free: yes

Best for Sensitive Skin: Medik8 Press & Glow Daily Exfoliating PHA Tonic

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Medik8

Press & Glow Daily Exfoliating PHA Tonic

$35

Amazon

$35

Shop

$35

Dermstore

Why it’s worth it: Exfoliating can be tricky (if not impossible) when your skin is easily irritated, but Medik8's Press & Glow Exfoliating PHA Tonic takes a gentler approach. Instead of stronger acids like glycolic, it uses 5.5% gluconolactone, a type of polyhydroxy acid that “gently removes dead skin cells while helping skin hold onto moisture,” says Dr. Turegano. It also contains glycerin, which draws water into the skin to keep it hydrated. “It's one of my favorite humectants to keep the skin looking fresh and bouncy,” says Carlos Vieira, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in Philadelphia. Aloe vera, acai, and prickly pear extracts also help soothe skin and keep irritation to a minimum.

Lee applying the Medik8 Press & Glow Daily Exfoliating PHA Tonic

Christa Joanna Lee

Lee after applying the Medik8 Press & Glow Daily Exfoliating PHA Tonic

Christa Joanna Lee

Tester feedback from 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, contributing commerce writer

More to know

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• Type: chemical
• Key ingredients: 5.5% gluconolactone, hyaluronic acid, green tea, aloe, prickly pear extract
• Fragrance-free: yes

Best Fast-Acting: Shani Darden Triple Acid Signature Peel

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Shani Darden

Triple Acid Signature Peel

$125

Amazon

$125

Shop

$125

Sephora

Cruel applying the Shani Darden Triple Acid Signature Peel

Jessica Cruel

Why it’s worth it: Have a wedding in your future or just want to give your skin a reboot? Shani Darden's Allure Best of Beauty Award-winning Triple Acid Signature Peel delivers almost immediate radiance, thanks to a two-step process that deeply resurfaces and cleanses skin. The first step uses a blend of lactic, glycolic, and mandelic acids to remove dead skin cells, which makes it all the easier for the neutralizing clay mask—your second step—to clear oil and gunk from pores. (The mask contains glycerin, hyaluronic acid, and allantoin, so it won't leave skin feeling tight, but you should still follow up with a nourishing moisturizer after.) It's potent, so you only need to use it every other week at most, or as needed for special occasions.

Cruel before applying the Shani Darden Triple Acid Signature Peel

Jessica Cruel

Cruel after applying the Shani Darden Triple Acid Signature Peel

Jessica Cruel

Tester feedback from Cruel

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“When I have to be on TV or walk the red carpet, there is only one product I trust to leave my skin glowing, and that's this peel. I have been lucky enough to get the full celeb facial treatment at Shani Darden's LA studio. This two-step exfoliant bottles a little of that magic up for at-home use. I love that it comes with a brush to apply the acid step. Then, you slather on the clay mask, which gives the whole thing a whipped consistency. It tingles a bit, but after I rinse, my skin is visibly glowier.” —Jessica Cruel, editor in chief

More to know

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• Type: chemical
• Key ingredients: mandelic acid, lactic acid, kaolin clay
• Fragrance-free: yes

Best for Acne-Prone Skin: Paula's Choice Skin Perfecting 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant

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Paula's Choice

Skin Perfecting 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant

$37

Amazon

$37

Dermstore

$37

Sephora

Why it's worth it: There are skin-care products that live up to the hype, and then there's the Best of Beauty Award-winning Paula's Choice Skin Perfecting 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant, which lives well beyond a viral moment. This is partly due to the 2% concentration of salicylic acid, which is the highest amount allowed in over-the-counter products. "Salicylic acid is an oil-soluble beta hydroxy acid (or BHA) that goes deep into the pores to clear out dirt, oil, and other impurities," Claire Chang, MD, a New York City-based dermatologist, told Allure. "It exfoliates and reduces clogged pores, leading to clearer and brighter skin." So, if you struggle with texture or acne, consistent use will help with cellular turnover to promote clearer, smoother skin. Antioxidant-rich green tea counters irritation typically experienced with harsh exfoliators, for softer skin without the sensitivity.

Former Allure senior commerce editor Sarah Felbin before using the Paula’s Choice Skin Perfecting 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant

Sarah Felbin

Felbin after using the Paula’s Choice Skin Perfecting 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant

Sarah Felbin

Tester feedback from former senior commerce editor Sarah Felbin

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“Paula's Choice has never let me down, and this toner is no different. It's gentle enough on my sensitive skin, yet tough enough on my oily T-zone and acne to prevent future breakouts. A splash on a cotton round is enough to treat my entire face, and I'm always left glowing.” —Sarah Felbin, former senior commerce editor

More to know

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• Type: chemical
• Key ingredients: 2% BHA (salicylic acid), green tea, butylene glycol
• Fragrance-free: yes

Other face exfoliators we like

Best for Mature Skin: SkinBetter Science AlphaRet Exfoliating Peel Pads

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SkinBetter Science

AlphaRet Exfoliating Peel Pads

$130

SkinBetter Science

Why it’s worth it: SkinBetter Science’s AlphaRet line has earned a following among dermatologists, thanks to a combination of a retinoid and lactic acid that helps smooth fine lines, uneven tone, and rough texture. Its AlphaRet Exfoliating Peel Pads take things a step further by adding glycolic acid to remove dead skin cells on the surface and salicylic acid to clear out the pore-clogging buildup that can lead to breakouts. Dr. Turegano loves the formula for “tackling several skin concerns at once, from dullness to fine lines.”

But with a retinoid and multiple exfoliating acids working together, these pads aren't exactly beginner-friendly, especially if your skin is sensitive or easily irritated. “The brand recommends up to three evenings a week, but I’d start with one or two, especially if you’re already using other active ingredients,” says Dr. Turegano, who adds, “I personally use this once a week.”

Tester feedback from contributing commerce editor Deanna Pai

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“I've been a fan of SkinBetter's AlphaRet for years—the Clearing Serum is amazing if you have acne-prone skin—so I had a feeling I'd like these peel pads. And I was right. They're definitely intense, with just the slightest tingling sensation, but my oily, acne-prone, dark spot-riddled skin needs the power. It left my skin smoother and clearer after a single pass. I'm using them every other night to start, alternating them with my regular retinoid (and occasionally taking breaks from both, depending on my skin). It's not for the faint of heart, but it's excellent if your skin can handle it.” —Deanna Pai, contributing commerce editor

More to know

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• Type: chemical and physical
• Key ingredients: retinol, lactic acid, glycolic acid, salicylic acid
• Fragrance-free: yes

Best Drugstore: RoC Retinol Correxion Line Smoothing 2-Step Peel Pads

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RoC

Retinol Correxion Line Smoothing 2-Step Peel Pads

$30

Amazon

$39

Shop

$39

Ulta Beauty

Why it’s worth it: Yet another exfoliating pad loaded with retinol, the RoC Retinol Correxion Line Smoothing 2-Step Peel Pads tackle two common concerns with aging skin: dullness and wrinkles. Step one is an exfoliating pad soaked in a blend of acids, including lactic, glycolic, and mandelic, which together help loosen and remove dead skin cells to make skin look smoother and brighter. “The peel step helps get rid of that dull surface layer that can make mature skin look flat.” says Dr. Karcher.

Step two is a retinol treatment that “is working more gradually on cell turnover, texture and fine lines,” she says. It also contains ectoin and allantoin to soothe and support skin, which is especially important when you're using multiple active ingredients. Because both steps contain potent active ingredients, start slowly rather than using them every night, especially if your skin is dry or sensitive.

More to know

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• Type: chemical and physical
• Key ingredients: lactic acid, glycolic acid, mandelic acid, retinol, ectoin, allantoin
• Fragrance-free: yes

Frequently Asked Questions

What are chemical exfoliators?

Chemical exfoliators are active ingredients that help loosen the bonds between dead skin cells, allowing them to shed and reveal newer and healthier cells beneath, according to Tiffany J. Libby, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in Rhode Island. "They also help unclog pores and exfoliate away surface skin cells; they also brighten skin, improve skin cell turnover and renewal, and some may even help stimulate collagen production within the skin," she explains. Resurfaced skin can also allow subsequent skin-care products to absorb more effectively.

Choosing a formula that contains the best exfoliant ingredients for your skin type is also critical. Michelle Henry, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in New York City, suggests initially avoiding mechanical exfoliation if you have sensitive skin and instead choosing alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) like glycolic acid. "They exfoliate the upper layers of the skin while also hydrating and helping your skin retain moisture," she says. Dr. Libby echoes this advice: "If you have sensitive skin, start with polyhydroxy acids, or lactic acid and mandelic acid, which are larger alpha hydroxy acid molecules [that] do not penetrate as deeply into the skin and are least likely to cause irritation." For people with more resilient skin who require an intensive acne-fighting treatment, we recommend using salicylic acid, a beta hydroxy acid with a small molecular weight, allowing it to penetrate pores more effectively than other exfoliating actives.

What are physical exfoliators?

Physical exfoliators have granules that manually buff away dead skin cells from the surface of your skin. Dr. Henry says physical exfoliation is key for oily skin, since it helps remove layers of oil buildup. "When you have oily skin, your dead skin cells are more adherent and don't flake off as quickly, which can contribute to breakouts," she explains. She recommends using an exfoliating face scrub with salicylic acid, which "gently speeds up skin turnover and better penetrates oil and oily follicles" to keep skin clean and clear of blemishes. Dr. Libby agrees, adding that salicylic acid “is excellent at targeting oil and unclogging pores.”

Can you over-exfoliate?

Yes, definitely. Despite the benefits of using an exfoliator, overdoing it can cause redness, irritation, breakouts, and damage to your skin barrier. Additionally, using an exfoliator that's either too harsh or too gentle for your skin type can rob you of that luminous finish you're seeking. To strike the right balance, make sure you're not exfoliating too often—no more than three times a week (one or two times should be enough for dry or sensitive skin). Or, look into the dermatologist-approved skin-cycling trend, a regimen that alternates between using active ingredients and letting the skin rest.

Dr. Henry recommends exfoliating with a physical exfoliator for about 30 seconds (or less) using small, gentle, circular motions. She adds that it’s important to follow the instructions printed on the packaging for chemical exfoliators, as they can vary by product.

Meet the experts

• Brendan Camp, MD, is a double board-certified dermatologist in dermatology and dermatopathology at MDCS Dermatology in the tri-state area.
• Claire Chang, MD, is a board-certified dermatologist based in New York City
• Michelle Henry, MD, is a board-certified dermatologist and founder of Skin & Aesthetic Surgery of Manhattan based in New York City
• Cheryl Karcher, MD, is a board-certified dermatologist at Center Aesthetic & Dermatology based in New York City.
• Tiffany J. Libby, MD, is a board-certified dermatologist and Mohs surgeon at Brown Dermatology based in Rhode Island.
• Dawn Queen, MD, is a board-certified dermatologist at Park Ave Derm based in New York City.
• Farhaad Riyaz, MD, is a board-certified dermatologist based in Plymouth, Michigan.
• Mamina Turegano, MD, is a board-certified dermatologist, internist, and dermatopathologist based in New Orleans.
• Carlos Vieira, is a board-certified dermatologist at The Dermatology Specialists based in Philadelphia.

How we test and review products

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

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

Our staff and testers

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

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

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We've gotta hand it to Heidi Klum and maybe even give her a round of applause, because she certainly had us wrapped around her finger teasing out her 2026 Halloween costume! Her Instagram followers had a lot of ideas about what the model might choose for her hotly anticipated costume, including the substance from The Substance, but she surprised pretty much everyone with the final reveal: a gory, bloody, extremely lifelike severed hand, complete with exposed bone shards at the wrist.

Yes, a giant hand, crafted to resemble her own down to her veins and her engagement and wedding rings, plus a vampy berry manicure! Klum's face was almost hidden amidst the flesh, but it peeked out near the severed wrist, covered in prosthetics and makeup meant to resemble tissue and blood.

Getty Images

According to prosthetics designer Mike Marino, who frequently works with Klum on her costumes, a lot goes into bringing these costumes to life. Klum and her team started thinking about this year's ensemble basically the minute Halloween 2025 ended. In the past, Klum has famously dressed as Medusa, a worm, the wig-wearing version of E.T., and a peacock, among many, many other beloved costumes—never the same thing twice! Plus. this was the 25th anniversary party, so the stakes were high (five). “Sometimes the most ordinary things can become the most extraordinary when you look at them a little differently,” Klum wrote on Instagram. “I wanted something unexpected, a little weird, a little creepy, and unlike anything I’d ever done before." This was definitely that! No one expected her to go as a hand.

The hand costume needed a combination of “harnesses, mechanics, motion, fluid motion—not fluid like liquid, but stuff that moves sort of organically,” Marino tells Allure. The hand was made of an “upholstery foam and latex” combo, and the costume also included harnesses, straps, and some silicone. “The harness distributed the 15 to 20 pounds that the hand weighed," explains Marino. "It distributed the weight around her so she didn't have to carry it on her head or anything. It was on her waist and shoulders and there was a small mechanical part she could control to move the fingers.” Marino describes the yearly costume process as “R&D experiments” with no instructions.

The team looked at medical reference materials and copied the tissue types that would be in said areas, like fat, muscles, and bones, Marino says. “Everything was then replicated using silicone, rubber and foam, keeping it all as lightweight as possible. For the blood, I didn't want it to be wet, I just wanted it to look wet,” he adds. The team made a rubber blood that stayed shiny; the only “real, wet blood” was what Klum had in her mouth.

To craft the gory but hilarious face, Marino first made sculptures. “The face was made in two layers: one was silicone that looked like fatty tissue and muscle and the outer layer consisted of wounds," he explains. "The layer on her face was not directly attached so she wasn't tethered to the whole suit. She could move freely inside."

The team tries to do as much pre-work as possible, including fittings and pre-painting, says Marino. This year, the actual “getting ready" started around 3 p.m. eastern time on Halloween, and Klum made her debut late that night. “Miraculously, it always comes together, but somehow it always takes forever, even if it's an easy thing,” Marino shares. In total, the hand required a group of more than 35 artists, Marino shares.

Getty Images

Klum didn't wear the full costume all night; she eventually ditched the enormous hand but kept the face makeup intact. And if we know Klum, she's already busy planning next year's costume.

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Body acne is completely normal, whether it shows up on your butt, chest, or back. But if you're looking to keep it in check, the best body acne treatments give you plenty of options. Many contain familiar acne-fighting ingredients like salicylic acid, which helps clear out the oil and dead skin cells that clog pores and lead to breakouts. They come in all kinds of easy-to-use formats, too, from bacne sprays that make reapplication a breeze to lotions, pads, and body washes that fit right into your existing body-care routine. To find out which ones actually deliver the breakout control you need, we asked board-certified dermatologists and Allure editors to share their favorites for treating body acne and helping prevent new bumps from popping up.

Our Top Body Acne Treatments

• Best Body Serum: Topicals Slather Exfoliating Body Serum, $30
• Best Body Wash: Byoma Blemish Acne Clearing Body Wash, $14
• Best Body Lotion: Paula's Choice Weightless Body Treatment 2% BHA, $35
• Best Body Scrub: Nécessaire The Body Exfoliator, $35

Frequently Asked Questions

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• What is body acne?
• What is the best way to treat body acne?
• Meet the experts
• How we test and review our products
• Our staff and testers

Best Body Serum: Topicals Slather Exfoliating Body Serum

Save to wishlistSave to wishlist

Topicals

Slather Exfoliating Body Serum

$30

Amazon

$30

Shop

$30

Sephora

Why it’s worth it: You might associate retinol with smoothing fine lines and wrinkles, but it can help with pimples, too. By encouraging skin cell turnover, it helps keep dead skin cells from piling up and clogging pores, which can lead to breakouts. That's why it's a key ingredient in the Topicals Slather Exfoliating Body Serum, which tackles both body breakouts and the dark marks they leave behind. Glycolic and lactic acids also sweep away dead skin cells and smooth rough texture. Together, these ingredients help with discoloration as well as remove dead skin cells on the surface," Geeta Yadav, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in Toronto, previously told Allure. Because acne treatments can leave skin feeling dry, it also includes squalane and urea to soften and hydrate.

Despite being called a body serum, the milky texture feels more like a lightweight body lotion, so it's easy to work into your routine. (However, you may need to follow it with a dedicated body cream in the winter or if your skin is dry.) Just remember to apply SPF 30 or higher to exposed skin during the day, since retinol can make skin more sensitive to the sun.

Tester feedback from former associate special projects manager Talia Gutierrez

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"Even as a beauty editor, it used to feel counterintuitive to rub body lotion over my clogged and bumpy KP-prone arms. That was until I began using a chemical exfoliating serum like this one from Topicals. The texture is more like a lightweight body lotion that dispenses white, but after slathering a generous dollop onto my palm and rubbing it along my arms and chest, the product fully absorbs into my brown skin." —Talia Gutierrez, former associate special projects manager

More to know

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• Key ingredients: retinol, glycolic acid, lactic acid, squalane, urea
• Fragrance-free: yes

Best Body Wash: Byoma Blemish Acne Clearing Body Wash

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Byoma

Blemish Acne Clearing Body Wash

$14 $11 (21% off)

Amazon

$15

Shop

$15

Ulta Beauty

Why it’s worth it: You might think a body wash wouldn't do much for acne since it goes right down the drain, but even 60 seconds of contact with the right ingredients can help. Byoma's Blemish Acne Clearing Body Wash uses 2% salicylic acid to help clear excess oil and dead skin cells from pores, plus bakuchiol, a plant-derived retinol alternative that can help regulate skin cell turnover and calm inflammation.

The formula doesn't skimp on skin-supporting ingredients, either: Ceramides and phytosphingosine (a lipid naturally found in the skin that also has antimicrobial properties) help maintain the skin's protective barrier, while glycerin draws in moisture. "What I appreciate about this one is that it tackles body acne without completely wrecking the skin barrier, which is a common complaint I hear from patients who've tried more aggressive options," Alexandra Bowles, MD, board-certified dermatologist based in Cincinnati, previously told Allure. If your skin is particularly sensitive, keep in mind the formula also contains witch hazel water, which helps remove excess oil but can irritate some skin types.

More to know

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• Key ingredients: 2% salicylic acid, bakuchiol, ceramides, phytosphingosine, glycerin, witch hazel water
• Fragrance-free: yes

Best Body Lotion: Paula's Choice Weightless Body Treatment 2% BHA

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Paula's Choice

Weightless Body Treatment 2% BHA

$35

Amazon

$35

Dermstore

$35

Sephora

Why it’s worth it: If your acne-prone skin could use a little extra hydration, Paula’s Choice Weightless Body Treatment 2% BHA gives you the best of both worlds. Vitamin E and dimethicone soften skin and prevent moisture loss, so it feels more like an everyday body lotion than a treatment. But don’t let that fool you: It still packs 2% salicylic acid to keep breakouts in check.

“This lightweight lotion is one of my go-to recommendations for body acne, clogged pores, or uneven texture because salicylic acid penetrates pores to clear debris while gently exfoliating,” Dendy Engelman, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in New York City, previously told Allure. And if you got a little overzealous with a body scrub, green tea, chamomile, and allantoin help calm irritated skin.

More to know

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• Key ingredients: 2% salicylic acid, vitamin E, dimethicone, green tea extract, chamomile extract, allantoin
• Fragrance-free: yes

Best Body Scrub: Nécessaire The Body Exfoliator

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Nécessaire

The Body Exfoliator

$35

Amazon

$35

Nordstrom

$35

Shop

Why it’s worth it: You'd be hard-pressed to find an Allure editor who couldn't wax poetic about at least one Nécessaire product. For our acne-prone tester, it's The Body Exfoliator, a 2023 Allure Best of Beauty Award winner that tackles rough texture and clogged pores in two ways. Fine pumice particles buff away dead skin, while a mix of glycolic, lactic, salicylic, and gluconolactone acids loosens buildup, clears pores, and smooths uneven texture. Marula oil and niacinamide help keep skin moisturized and more even-toned.

Lauren Moy, MD, a double board-certified dermatologist based in Los Angeles, previously told Allure it's "best for those dealing with congestion, as it dissolves cellular bonds while manually sweeping away surface debris." And while we love the refreshing eucalyptus scent, there's also a fragrance-free version for acne-prone skin that's sensitive to essential oils.

Tester feedback from contributing commerce editor Deanna Pai

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“Ever since a publicist grabbed my dry, ashy arm and slathered body oil on it—rude but helpful?—I’ve been diligent about my body-care routine. This scrub is a big part of it. I love that it combines chemical and physical exfoliators to deal with roughness and the occasional body acne alike, and it always leaves my skin smooth and soft. Plus, it builds to a really nice lather that’s easy to rinse, and the pumice doesn’t leave any residue in my shower.” —Deanna Pai, contributing commerce editor

More to know

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• Key ingredients: pumice, salicylic acid, glycolic acid, lactic acid, gluconolactone, marula oil, niacinamide, glycerin, eucalyptus oil
• Fragrance-free: free of synthetic fragrance (eucalyptus scent)

Best Exfoliating Pads: First Aid Beauty Acne Clearing Pads

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First Aid Beauty

Acne Clearing Pads

$39

Shop

$39

Dermstore

$39

Ulta Beauty

Why it’s worth it: These Acne Clearing pads from First Aid Beauty are so handy to keep in your bag for a quick midday refresher or post-shower swipe to help unclog pores and sweep away buildup. They’re also gentle enough for your face if you’re dealing with breakouts, rough texture, or dullness all over. Formulated with 2% salicylic acid (spotting a trend?), they help clear excess oil and minimize the look of pores without drying your skin out. They’re also infused with rosemary extract, which lends a fresh, clean feeling, especially on hot, sweaty days when you’re trying to keep new breakouts at bay.

Tester feedback from Pai

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“Since I’m not going to slather my chest and back with my fancy azelaic acid serum, I use these convenient pads to make quick work of breakouts below the neck. They’re easy to swipe on in the mornings, and I can reach my upper back without much contortion. They help resolve zits more quickly, and my post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation is pretty much nonexistent as a result, too.”—Deanna Pai, contributing commerce editor

More to know

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• Key ingredients: 2% salicylic acid, rosemary
• Fragrance-free: yes

Best Spray: Glytone Acne Back & Chest Treatment Spray

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Glytone

Acne Back & Chest Treatment Spray

$44

Amazon

$44

Shop

$44

Dermstore

Why it's worth it: After cleansing, Texas-based, board-certified dermatologist Heidi Prather, MD, suggests applying a toner with acne-fighting ingredients. Targeting tough-to-reach areas like the back can be challenging, but that’s where a product like the quick-drying Glytone Acne Treatment Spray Back & Chest comes in. "Because the back is a hard-to-reach area to apply topicals, look for user-friendly products in a spray bottle that you can mist on your back, such as this bacne spray formulated with 2% salicylic acid," she explains. Centella asiatica, also known as cica, helps soothe the skin and balance the actives.

More to know

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• Key ingredients: 2% salicylic acid, cica, gluconolactone
• Fragrance-free: yes

Frequently Asked Questions

What is body acne?

Body acne arises from "the inconvenient and unfortunate cycle of clogged pores, inflammation, and poor skin turnover," says Dr. Prather. She explains that back acne can appear as small blackheads, inflammatory pustules, or sometimes deep, tender cystic lesions.

What's the best way to treat body acne?

To start, Dr. Prather encourages her patients to identify anything that might be triggering outbreaks. "Hair products such as conditioners or leave-in products that contain silicones and oils can leave a residue on your skin, resulting in clogged pores and acne," she notes. "Screen your products for ingredients that are known to be comedogenic, and when getting a massage, opt for lighter lotions in place of heavy creams and massage oils that can exacerbate acne."

After eliminating potential triggers, look for over-the-counter treatments that target body acne—just don’t treat your back like your face. “Although our back skin seems tough, it [usually] cannot handle the same acne treatment routines we use on our face,” warns Dr. Prather. A study in the Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology found that back acne is often more sensitive due to a weaker skin barrier and microbial imbalances, especially when combined with harsh cleansers. “This discrepancy may lead to a vicious cycle in which the natural lipid barrier of the back is compromised, promoting further oil production and microbial imbalance,” explains New York-based board-certified dermatologist Kseniya Kobets, MD. She recommends a gentler approach: pH-balanced cleansers with humectants like glycerin, followed by a lightweight, non-comedogenic lotion with ceramides and niacinamide. Another tip? Use actives like benzoyl peroxide sparingly (no more than a few times a week and ideally over moisturizer).

Meet the experts

• Dendy Engelman, MD, a board-certified dermatologist and Mohs surgeon at Shafer Clinic based in New York City
• David Kim, MD, a New York City-based board-certified dermatologist
• Kseniya Kobets, MD, a New York-based board-certified dermatologist
• Lauren Moy, MD, a double board-certified dermatologist based in Los Angeles
• Heidi Prather, MD, a Texas-based board-certified dermatologist
• Geeta Yadav, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in Toronto

How we test and review products

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

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

Our staff and testers

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

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

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Allure Reader Exclusive: Your first box is just $15 with code ALLURE50, but it’s worth over $239! Join this month to get a free Nulastin Brow Shape Altering Serum, plus a $25 Member Store credit delivered to your inbox after you place your order.

GET THE BOX

I’ve always loved getting ready—almost as much as the actual going-out part. There’s just something about considering all the possibilities, and coming up for air 15 minutes later with an unexpected, but totally gorgeous makeup look. It’s fun, carefree, and a little exciting in a can’t-wait-to-see-what-happens kind of way.

While I don’t get dressed up all that often (I love my sweats!), I still enjoy that feeling of anticipation—and discovering a new beauty product gives me that. What will I wear this with? Where will I wear it? Will this be the thing that changes my whole look?

That’s the kind of discovery we had in mind with this month’s box. You’ve got your choice of skin care-meets-makeup drops to experiment with a bronzy, glowy, or rosy finish. Wispy falsies that let you decide exactly how much lash drama you’re in the mood for. And a sparkly chrome eye shadow stick, plus so much more. Whether you have a big event or no plans at all, I hope you have fun experimenting!

Drunk Elephant B-Goldi Bright Illuminating Drops with 5% Niacinamide, D-Bronzi Bronzing Drops with Peptides, O-Bloos Rosi Glow Drops–Serum Blush with Vitamin F

Why We Love It: Each palm-sized bottle is packed with glow-inducing magic to give your skin that instant something—whether it’s an illuminating finish, a sun-kissed bronze, or a rosy flush of color—all with hydrating glycerin and nourishing marula seed oil that do extra work behind the scenes.

How You’ll Use It: These formulas are forgiving, so don’t be afraid to experiment: Shake and sprinkle a few drops into your moisturizer, mix them with your foundation, or wear solo. Have fun!

Retail price: $39

Shop 20% Off With Code ALLURE20

Thrive Causemetics Brilliant Eye Brightener™ Racquel

Why We Love It: With light-reflecting pigments that make your eyes sparkle the second you swipe it on, this buildable, cream-to-powder shadow is super easy to apply and blend. No brush needed!

How You’ll Use It: If constant Zoom meetings and FaceTime chats have taught us anything, it’s that good lighting matters. Dab this at the inner corners of your eyes, highlight your brow bone, or swipe and smudge all over your lids for an instant boost of shimmer.

Retail price: $26

Shop 20% Off With Code HolidayThrive20

*First time customers only

Kylie Cosmetics Cosmic Kylie Jenner 2.0 Eau de Parfum Pen Spray

Why We Love It: After just one sniff of this perfume, we realized that Kylie Jenner must smell really, really good. Cosmic 2.0 mixes juicy pear and spicy pink pepper with sweet vanilla orchid and warm amber for a scent that’s instantly a vibe.

How You’ll Use It: Keep this tiny vial inside your purse or carry-on and spritz it on your pulse points (wrists and neck) before drinks, after dinner, in the Uber, or whenever you need a refresh.

Retail price: $29

Shop 15% Off With Code ALLURE15

Falscara Studio Mini in Classic Natural

Why We Love It: Get ready for people to ask, “Wait, are those your real lashes?” These wispy clusters add fluffy, believable bulk without that telltale lash band giving away your falsie secret. How you answer those questions is up to you.

How You’ll Use It: Whether you’re going for a little extra height on the ends or creating a high-glam look, these lashes can be applied individually (with the kit’s accompanying tweezers), so you can be in total control of the final look.

Retail price: $19.99

Shop 25% Off With Code FALSCARA25

Sephora Collection About That Shine Sheer Shine Lipstick in 07 Rose Refraction

Why We Love It: Sephora has cracked the code on the kind of lipstick you’ll want to wear every day. This versatile tube gives lips a juicy wash of color and light-catching shine, but applies with the ease of a balm. We’ll take two, please!

How You’ll Use It: Because it’s so easy to apply, you can swipe it on without a mirror, lip brush, or really, without even having to think about it. For a more precise look, layer it over your favorite lip liner as the last step in your routine.

Retail price: $16 for 0.10oz (.02oz included in box)

Shop Sephora Collection

Euthymol Purple Whitening Toothpaste

Why We Love It: Leave it to this British oral-care brand to bring the science of color theory to toothpaste. Just as purple shampoo tones down brassiness in hair, this vibrant violet formula helps neutralize yellowing and counteract surface stains on teeth for an instant whitening effect.

How You’ll Use It: We swear our teeth looked whiter after just one use, but of course, the more consistently you use this toothpaste (at least twice a day, dentist’s orders!), the better (and brighter) the overall results will be.

Retail price: $15 for 3.7oz (.7oz included in box)

Shop Euthymol

New Member Gift: Nulastin Brow Shape Altering Serum

Why you’ll love it: Overplucked your brows as a teen? We’ve been there. Move on from that damage with this peptide-pumped treatment that helps boost elastin to strengthen hair at the root to prevent fallout. The clear formula doubles as a styler, so consider it the type of two-in-one we actually recommend.

How you’ll use it: After applying your skin care, comb the spoolie through your brow hair in short, upward strokes. Repeat morning and night for 12 weeks for fuller, thicker-looking eyebrows that even Lily Collins would respect.

Retail price: $84

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Dua Lipa rarely wears an updo. The musician is all about loose waves and high ponytails, but rarely do we ever see her in a capital-u Updo, like a French twist or a classic chignon. But the Future Nostalgia singer loves a well-timed beauty surprise, and for the WSJ Magazine Innovator Awards on October 29, we couldn't help but notice a pitch-perfect updo tucked under the giant Chanel hat.

Lipa's Chanel couture suit and matching hat were definitely the stars of the show, so wearing her hair long and loose would have competed with the statement-making ensemble. Thus, she and her hairstylist decided on a sleek, sophisticated updo placed just so beneath said statement hat, which was a fun collision of old-school elegance and a punky spirit—basically the definition of this new era of Chanel. Lipa's dark hair was gathered up like a French twist, but instead of the traditional roll shape, it swooped and swirled into an “S” shape. The twist was placed directly at the center of her head to allow plenty of space for the hat, and not a hair was out of place. So glamorous!

You've gotta watch Lipa's updo in motion to get the full effect of suit, hat, and hairstyle—the kind of synergy that makes a major red carpet moment memorable.

NEW YORK, NEW YORK – OCTOBER 29: Dua Lipa attends the WSJ. Magazine 2026 Innovator Awards at MOMA on October 29, 2026 in New York City. (Footage by Henry Santana/Getty Images for WSJ. Magazine)Henry Santana/Getty Images

Such hats aren't super common on the red carpet, which is another reason Lipa's updo-and-chapeau combo is so charming. We typically see this interplay on royals like the Princess of Wales, who practically has a PhD in hat-and-hairstyle pairings, or during the Met Gala. But could statement hats be poised for a comeback? We did spot another one on Elle Fanning this week as she promoted the new Hunger Games movie, so perhaps “whimsy” will be the big buzzword for 2027 hair, makeup, and accessories.

More fun celebrity beauty news:

• Olivia Colman Is the Indisputable New Queen of Quiet Silver
• Selena Gomez and Demi Lovato Went Full YouTube for Their Blush Collab
• Zara Larsson's Sparkly, Frosted Eye Shadow Is Positively Angelic

Photo: Getty ImagesSave StorySave this storySave StorySave this story

The CFDA Fashion Awards are, first and foremost, about fashion. Duh. And Hailey Bieber certainly wasn't going to let the occasion pass without wowing onlookers in a runway-ready outfit. The Rhode founder arrived at the November 2 ceremony in New York City wearing a gold brocade Saint Laurent ensemble by Anthony Vaccarello, serving maximalist glamour without going into campy territory. But as spectacular as the garb was, her beauty look couldn't possibly be ignored.

Bieber's espresso brown hair looked darker than ever, with glossy, center-parted lengths falling loosely around her face. And as if the color wasn’t gleaming and rich enough to convince anyone to bookmark it for a future colorist appointment, it was made all the more charming by how perfectly it coordinated with her outfit's fur cuffs. Although we doubt it was an intentional pairing, it definitely played into the unwavering golden-brown theme.

Photo: Getty Images

While Bieber’s hair couldn't be shinier, her makeup took on a more matte approach, though still in the toasty brown color family. Warm, muted blush added a subtle, not-too-rosy flush, keeping the look monochromatic. Her eyes were softly defined with blended brown tones that could easily work just as well as a daytime look. And that lip! A warm, muted cocoa hue with a contoured outline proved that a neutral lip can sometimes serve as a statement lip.

Of course, this isn't Bieber's first foray into the brown beauty. Lately, she’s been leaning into the shade with a chocolate-brown manicure and, before that, lighter, taupe nails. So, between the espresso hair, toasted makeup, and often-nutty nails, Bieber is clearly in her brown period—a perfect vibe for the rest of fall.

More celebrity hair news:

• Sophie Turner's Hair Has Never Been This Dark Before
• Dua Lipa's Updo Fits Perfectly Under Her Statement Hat
• Olivia Colman Is the Indisputable New Queen of Quiet Silver

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Ask any Allure editor, and they’d be hard-pressed to count the number of new products they try in a year—let alone every month. But every so often, something really catches our eye. Introducing This Just In: a series spotlighting the latest beauty launches that land on our desks each month.

And oh, October, you've really outdone yourself. From acne patches with a festive twist to a manicure you can pull off from the couch, these launches made our editors do a full stop.

Our Top October Launches

• Patch Made In Heaven: Hero Cosmetics Mighty Patch Design Patches, $11
• Date Night Ready: Merit New Wave L’Extrait de Parfum, $92
• Glow Getter: Nivea Smooth & Glow Body Milk, $6
• One and Done: Anastasia Beverly Hills Genesis Eyeshadow Palette, $56
• Pretty In Pink: Smashbox O-Gloss PH Lip Gloss, $26
• No Appointment Needed: Olive + June At-Home Dip Manicure, $75
• Smooth Moves: Phlur Heavy Cream Whipped Body Butter, $38

Patch Made In Heaven: Hero Cosmetics Mighty Patch Design Patches

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Hero Cosmetics

Mighty Patch Design Patches

$11

Amazon

$11

Shop

$11

Revolve

Allure Best of Beauty editorial assistant Arietta Hallock after applying the Hero Cosmetics Mighty Patch Design Patches

Arietta Hallock

Why it’s worth it: You’ve likely heard it from your dermatologist (and us!): Don’t mess with your breakouts. That’s why we’ve long credited the Hero Cosmetics Mighty Patch for absorbing excess oil and gunk (gross, yet also so satisfying to see) from existing pimples—and perhaps most importantly, helping us resist the urge to pick. In fact, it’s a formula we’ve awarded more than once: The Mighty Patch Original has multiple Best of Beauty wins under its belt, including 2024 and 2025, and our readers are equally big fans. If you like wearing your pimple patch loud and proud, the new Mighty Patch Design Patches add a festive twist. As soon as you spot a zit, apply one of the decorative patches—from a swirly peppermint to a winking snowman—to clean, dry skin and let the vegan hydrocolloid, an oil-absorbing material you’ll find across all the brand’s patch lineup, do all the hard work.

Tester feedback from Best of Beauty editorial assistant Arietta Hallock

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“There’s been much debate about the pimple patch’s place in public. And while I wouldn’t wear Hero’s limited-edition holiday patches to work, their playful patterns add some festive fun to my nighttime routine. Plus, their spot-calming power proves just as reliable as the original. They are the perfect stocking stuffer this season and absolutely a sleepover staple!" —Arietta Hallock, Best of Beauty editorial assistant

More to know

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• Key ingredients: vegan hydrocolloid
• Patch count: 24

Date Night Ready: Merit New Wave L’Extrait de Parfum

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Merit

New Wave L’Extrait de Parfum

$92

Sephora

Allure commerce editor Sarah Han after applying the Merit New Wave L’Extrait de Parfum

Sarah Han

Why it’s worth it: Our favorite fragrances always have us leaning in for another sniff, deserve to sit pretty on our vanities, and oftentimes, both. Enter: Merit’s New Wave. The unconventional, wave-inspired glass bottle symbolizes the perfume’s unexpected scent profile. It pairs effervescent pink pepper and bright orange blossom with warm tonka notes, tobacco accords, and a trail of oakwood for a scent that feels equal parts airy and captivating. Prepare for lots of compliments.

Tester feedback from commerce editor Sarah Han

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“I'm on a mission to expand my fragrance palette, and Merit's New Wave is starting the next chapter. I'd normally turn away from anything with incense and tobacco, but this scent smells lighter than the notes on paper. That being said, it's still going to be a post-work scent for me—think: the ‘swankiest, IYKYK speakeasy.’ Such a vibe." —Sarah Han, commerce editor

More to know

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• Key notes: pink pepper, orange blossom, tonka bean, tobacco, oakwood
• Size: 1 oz.

Glow Getter: Nivea Smooth & Glow Body Milk

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Nivea

Smooth & Glow Body Milk

$6

Walmart

Why it’s worth it: When cold weather leaves your skin a little worse for wear, Nivea’s Smooth & Glow Body Milk comes to the rescue. Unlike a traditional body lotion, the moisturizer’s lightweight, milky texture softens skin, smooths rough patches, and relieves dryness sans the greasy film. Glycerin and hyaluronic acid help lock in hydration and protect the skin barrier, while niacinamide and vitamin E even tone and boost radiance. And because the formula is quick-drying, you can slip into your winter layers without the wait—or that sticky feeling, of course.

Tester feedback from associate social media manager Katie Gunderman

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“This body milk is lightweight, hydrating, glowy, smells divine, and is only $6! I’m sold and will be recommending this to everyone. It gives you Barbie legs, especially if you’re wearing something where your legs are on display.” —Katie Gunderman, associate social media manager

More to know

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• Key ingredients: glycerin, hyaluronic acid, niacinamide, vitamin E
• Fragrance-free: no

Pretty In Pink: Smashbox O-Gloss PH Lip Gloss

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Smashbox

O-Gloss PH Lip Gloss

$26

Amazon

$26

Ulta Beauty

Allure manager of creative development Lauren Alberti after applying the Smashbox O-Gloss PH Lip Gloss

Lauren Alberti

Why it’s worth it: Primer might be the first thing that comes to mind when you think of Smashbox (hi, Photo Finish!), but the brand recently revived another classic: O-Gloss PH Lip Gloss. The color-changing formula swipes on clear, then adapts to your skin’s pH to reveal a personalized pink hue. The high-shine color payoff is just as memorable as the original and leaves lips plumper, glassier, and never sticky. It also nourishes parched lips with rich plant oils—avocado and castor seed oils—and hyaluronic acid, plus new-to-this-version vitamins C and E for an extra antioxidant boost. But where it really shines (pun intended) is its volumizing finish, thanks to minty menthol that plumps without the spicy sting of traditional lip plumpers.

Tester feedback from manager of creative development Lauren Alberti

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“I typically stay far away from lip products labeled ‘plumping' because you never know what you're going to get. Sometimes it's a mild experience, and sometimes it feels like you just ate a hot chili pepper! I'm here to tell you that this one passed the test! There's no stinging or spicy feeling on your lips, just a nice plumping gloss with a bit of a tint. I love how shiny it is, giving a super-hydrated look.” —Lauren Alberti, manager of creative development

More to know

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• Key ingredients: avocado oil, castor seed oil, hyaluronic acid, menthol
• Shades: 1

One and Done: Anastasia Beverly Hills Genesis Eyeshadow Palette

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Anastasia Beverly Hills

Genesis Eyeshadow Palette

$56

Nordstrom

$56

Shop

$56

Ulta Beauty

Allure associate social media manager Katie Gunderman after applying the Anastasia Beverly Hills Genesis Eyeshadow Palette

Katie Gunderman

Why it’s worth it: Circa 2016, cut creases were all the rage, lip combos came in coordinated “kits,” and the Anastasia Beverly Hills Dipbrow Pomade was the product for sculpting brows. While our routines would be nothing without the brand’s incomparable brow lineup—ArchiBrow Pencil even snagged a Best of Beauty win this year—we’d be remiss not to give the eye shadow palettes their flowers, too.

Whether you’re a seasoned pro or loyal to your singles, the Genesis Eyeshadow Palette strikes a happy medium with 12 shades that offer just enough creativity without overwhelming your makeup bag. Think cool mattes, sculpting browns, and subtle shimmers that blend like butter, have minimal fallout, and stay put until the p.m. So whether you’re after a soft wash of color or full-on holiday glam, these versatile tones complement every skin tone, age, and skill level—mature lids included. The formula also features hydrating glycerin and vitamin E to help each shade glide across lids without tugging. The cherry on top is the full-size mirror that makes touch-ups a breeze.

Tester feedback from Gunderman

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“The palette has a wide range of mattes that work for multiple skin tones and can add depth to any look. There is also a shimmer shade and a thicker glitter shade to add extra dimension and shine—plus, there’s hardly any fallout. The shade selection and textures are a dream! Not to mention, the shadows are pigmented, creamy, and blendable.” —Katie Gunderman, associate social media manager

More to know

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• Number of shades: 12
• Finish: shimmer and velvet-matte

No Appointment Needed: Olive + June At-Home Dip Manicure

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Olive & June

At-Home Dip Manicure

$75

Olive & June

Why it’s worth it: We’ll never tell you to skip your trusted nail tech, but when time is limited, a little DIY sesh can save you a trip to the salon (and precious dollars). You probably recognize Olive & June for its long-lasting polishes or its Best of Beauty-winning Gel Mani System, but the new, all-inclusive Dip Manicure kit offers another beginner-friendly approach to the at-home manicure. Layer on the base coat, activator, and color (choose from 15 vibrant, acrylic-free shades) before sealing it all with a topcoat. Unlike the gel system, this formula doesn’t require a UV or LED lamp to set—just let your nails fully dry before heading out the door. While it claims to last up to 21 days, the kit lasted one Allure editor just over a week without chipping or lifting.

Tester feedback from content director Sophia Panych

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“This is the first at-home manicure that's lasted more than a week for me. In fact, it lasted almost three days without any chips or lifting. It's incredibly durable and protects my natural nails underneath. And while I was nervous about removal, the kit makes it super easy, and my nails are still in great shape afterward.” —Sophia Panych, content director

More to know

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• Wear time: 21 days
• Shades: 15

Smooth Moves: Phlur Heavy Cream Whipped Body Butter

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Phlur

Heavy Cream Whipped Body Butter

$36

Nordstrom

$38

Shop

$38

Sephora

Why it’s worth it: If you’ve ever wished you could bottle Phlur’s fragrances into skin care, you’re in luck: The decadent, dessert-inspired Heavy Cream scent now comes in a Whipped Body Butter, so you can treat your skin and your senses. Of course, the rich, creamy formula is also chock-full of heavy-duty moisturizers—such as shea and cocoa butters and squalane—to keep dry skin happy and noticeably soft. Glycerin and plant oils, including coconut and castor oil, help support the barrier, while niacinamide, prickly pear, and green tea smooth texture and boost elasticity. Here’s to hoping the body butter extends to all of our favorite Phlur scents. Vanilla Skin, anyone?

Tester feedback from social media manager Bianca Richards

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“Phlur is expanding its body-care line with the brand’s first-ever body butter in Heavy Cream—and it’s truly heavenly! The whipped, buttery texture lives up to the decadent scent that's warm, sensual, and cozy.” —Bianca Richards, social media manager

More to know

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• Key ingredients: glycerin, coconut oil, castor oil, shea butter, cocoa butter, niacinamide, prickly pear, green tea
• Fragrance-free: no
• Size: 6 oz.

Frequently Asked Questions

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 new October 2026 launches, 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. To learn more information on our reporting and testing processes, read our complete reviews process and methodology page.

Our staff and testers

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

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

Collage: Jemeria Davison; Source images: Courtesy of brandsSave StorySave this storySave StorySave this story

Whether you want to try out highlights or go all-over, today's best at-home hair color kits have made significant strides from the box dyes of years past—think the formulas themselves (nourishing ingredients that won’t leave hair feeling stripped), shade selection (neutrals, bolds, the works), and ease of use. And, if you don’t want to make the full commitment, semi-permanent hair dye or tinted hair glosses offer a temporary shade shift. Some dye kits also include color-depositing conditioners that’ll help boost shine (Dullness, who?). Target-specific formulas, including those for grays or outgrown roots, can enhance your silver or extend your salon color without compromising the overall health of your strands—the options are endless.

Our Top At-Home Color Kits

• Best Permanent Overall: eSalon Made for You Custom Hair Color, $33
• Best Semi-Permanent Overall: Overtone Color Depositing Mask, $32
• Best for Blondes: Schwarzkopf Keratin Blonde, $12
• Best for Brunettes: IGK Permanent Color Kit, $31
• Best for Grays: AgeBeautiful Permanent Hair Color Cream, $12

Frequently Asked QuestionsAccordionItemContainerButtonLargeChevron

• How do I know what shade to dye my hair?
• How much hair dye should you use?
• How can I make my at-home hair dye last?
• Meet the experts
• How we test and review products
• Our staff and testers

Don't get us wrong, we love visiting our colorists, but the time (and cost) of getting professional dye jobs add up quickly. So, instead of keeping up with constant appointments, extend the life of your in-salon color treatments—or ditch them altogether, depending on what you're going for—with these vibrant at-home hair-coloring kits.

Best Permanent Overall: eSalon Made for You Custom Hair Color

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eSalon

Custom Hair Color Set

$33

Amazon

$33

eSalon

Why it’s worth it: Take the guesswork out of coloring your hair with eSalon's Made for You Custom Hair Color, a tailored service that features in-house colorists hand-mixing a color kit made just for you. Its high-quality, ammonia-free pigments are so spot-on that it's won five Best of Beauty Awards and four Readers' Choice Awards to date—no big deal. One of the reasons we love it: Allure tester Liana Schaffner previously said in her review of the kit that this is an ideal set for every skill level, even for hair dye beginners. "It basically makes DIY at-home hair color foolproof—the beauty equivalent of a soufflé recipe that won't collapse below sea level," she wrote.

After answering a quick set of questions about your hair texture, skin tone, amount of grays, and so forth, a colorist whips up a bespoke batch of permanent or semi-permanent hair dye, complete with application tips, delivered right to your door.

More to know

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• Formula type: permanent or semi-permanent
• Shades: custom color only
• Ammonia-free: yes

Best Semi-Permanent Overall: Overtone Color Depositing Mask

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Overtone

Color Depositing Treatment Mask

$32

Amazon

$32

Ulta Beauty

Why It’s Worth It: Rather than lifting the hair shaft to deposit pigment, Overtone’s Color Depositing Mask coats the outside of your strands to avoid compromising hair health. The semi-permanent, color-depositing hair mask (and a 2026 Best of Beauty winner!) comes in 38 whopping shades—from subtle neutrals to vibrant hues—to achieve rich, true-to-you color at home. As a nourishing mask at its core, the formula is infused with natural oils, including jojoba, castor, sweet almond, and coconut oils, to deeply moisturize, improve softness, and enhance shine as it transfers color. With gloves, apply the mask to dry hair in sections and leave it in for at least 10 to 15 minutes before rinsing so that you can achieve the most vibrant color.

Tester feedback from designer Briana Rengifo

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"One of the easiest hair dyes to use! I keep this on rotation as one of my favorites since it’s quick to apply and doesn't stain my neck or tub. And because it's a conditioner, it always leaves my hair soft, silky—and a totally new shade depending on my mood." —Briana Rengifo, designer

More to know

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• Formula type: semi-permanent mask
• Shades: 38
• Ammonia-free: yes

Best for Vivid Colors: Good Dye Young Semi-Permanent Hair Color

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Good Dye Young

Good Dye Young Semi-Permanent Hair Color

$19

Amazon

$19

Ulta Beauty

Why It's Worth It: If you’ve been toying with the idea of color, Good Dye Young's Semi-Permanent Hair Color has a vibrant lineup of neons and jewel tones to play around with. Fitting for essentially every hair type, this Hayley Williams-backed formula provides fun, pigmented color that doesn’t quickly wash off, including a variety of ultra-electric colors, like magenta, royal purple, green, and teal. The formula helps reduce the risk of damage with a conditioning and strengthening blend of sunflower seed oil, hydrolyzed rice protein, and glycerin, which are also all heroes at fighting color-fading and dryness. And because it's infused with bergamot essential oil, the citrus scent provides plenty of uplifting vibes. If you're looking for something a tad more low-key, check out the Best of Beauty-winning DyeDeposit, a color-depositing mask.

Tester feedback from former senior news editor Nicola Dall'Asen

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“You can mix your Good Dye Young shade of choice into your conditioner for a boost of pigment in between touch-ups, but this formula is so long-lasting, you probably won't need to—and that's on Good Dye Young being low-key magical.” —Nicola Dall'Asen, former senior news editor

More to know

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• Formula type: semi-permanent
• Shades: 6
• Ammonia-free: yes

Best for Beginners: John Frieda Precision Foam Colour

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John Frieda

Precision Foam Colour

$13 $12 (8% off)

Amazon

Why It's Worth It: "Anyone who's applied hair color knows that dripping [product] is an annoying part of the application process," says Los Angeles-based hairstylist Damian Monzillo about the advantages of foam application. Enter: John Frieda Precision Foam Colour, a permanent hair dye that’s a solid entry point for newbies—and an Allure Best of Beauty Award winner. Not only are you left with zero streaks most of the time, but best of all: a "clean bathroom and hairline," Monzillo says—a perk that everyone, especially beginners, benefits from. Plus, you won’t have to scroll online for an application guide: The kit comes with everything you need to nail the best color possible, including gloves, an after-color conditioner, and straightforward instructions. Keep in mind that most box kits come with a 20 volume developer, which means that the formula can lift hair "exactly one level lighter than where you currently are," Monzillo points out.

To ensure a seamless, natural-looking dye job, Monzillo recommends using a little bit of Vaseline on and around your hairline to prevent any color lines from sticking around. He also advises dividing the hair into half-inch sections while dyeing to allow the color to absorb better. Take note: The results are always better when you take your time.

More to know

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• Formula type: permanent
• Shades: 19
• Ammonia-free: no

Best for Blondes: Schwarzkopf Keratin Blonde

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Schwarzkopf

Keratin Blonde

$13 $12 (8% off)

Amazon

$12

Walmart

Why It's Worth It: Blondes may have more fun, but being a bottle blonde comes with its challenges: Whether natural or dyed, blonde hair is often more brittle, fine, and dry than darker hair, making it more damage-prone. The solution? Bicoastal celebrity hairstylist Marc Mena looks for a formula “that considers the hair’s condition as much as the finished color,” such as Schwarzkopf’s Keratin Blonde. Its three-step Bond Forcing System starts with a pre-color serum consisting of vitamin B6 and hydrolyzed collagen to condition dry ends and prep the strands for color. The color lightening kit itself—promising all-over blonde up to nine levels—infuses keratin with hydrolyzed silk and apricot kernel oil to reinforce the hair structure and minimize breakage as it lifts. It’s topped off with a two-in-one purple conditioner that pairs anti-brass benefits with a hydrating keratin complex for stronger strands.

More to know

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• Formula type: permanent
• Shades: 10
• Ammonia-free: no

Best for Grays: AgeBeautiful Permanent Hair Color Cream

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AGEBeautiful

Permanent Hair Color Cream

$12

Amazon

$11

Sally Beauty

Why It's Worth It: Allure editors celebrate aging in all forms—grays included. While grays are a common reality of getting older, the truth is aging hair also experiences changes in texture and shine, making it difficult to color. Though we can’t reverse or halt grays, New York City-based colorist Tiffanie Richards calls AgeBeautiful’s Permanent Hair Color your best friend for gray hair coverage, whether you’re embracing the silver or looking to conceal grays. With soft neutrals and warm-to-cool grays, the kit is fitting for all stages of the graying process. Plus, it's more akin to a conditioning hair treatment, with ingredients such as biotin, melanin, keratin, and peptides that West Hollywood, California-based hairstylist Jess Gonzalez recommends for replenishing dry, dull mature hair.

More to know

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• Formula type: cream
• Shades: 87
• Ammonia-free: no

Best for Brunettes: IGK Permanent Color Kit

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IGK Hair

Permanent Hair Color Kit

$31

Amazon

$31

Shop

$31

Ulta Beauty

Why It's Worth It: IGK's Permanent Hair Color is an easy-to-apply formula recommended by Lorena Martinez Valdes, a Chicago-based colorist, for its vibrant, dimensional color. (Translation: It makes you look like you've just stepped out of a high-end salon.) "It focuses on increasing the shine level, which many at-home color kits lack," Valdes notes. For natural or dyed brunettes, that makes all of the difference. Plus, New York City-based hairstylist Gillian Doland says the shade range consists of modern, rich, and natural hues, so results appear far from flat and streaky. The formula also leaves your hair feeling softer and smoother with moisturizing squalane and glycerin, among other nourishing ingredients.

More to know

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• Formula type: permanent
• Shades: 21
• Ammonia-free: yes

Best for Darker Shades: Madison Reed Radiant Hair Color Kit

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Madison Reed

Radiant Hair Color Kit

$35

Amazon

$35

Ulta Beauty

Why It’s Worth It: According to North Carolina-based hairstylist Taylor Murphy and Doland, Madison Reed’s Radiant Hair Color Kit is your best bet for salon-quality results. Its dark, dimensional shade range offers complete gray hair coverage and all-over color in just 35 minutes, while a strengthening, circulation-boosting blend of keratin, argan oil, and ginseng root extract helps protect hair health. Bonus: The formula comes in a thick cream texture that has zero harsh smell (it’s ammonia-free!), zero drips, and zero mess.

More to know

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• Formula type: permanent
• Shades: 33
• Ammonia-free: yes

Best for Roots: DpHue Root Touch-Up Kit

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dpHue

Root Touch-Up Kit

$37

Amazon

$37

Dermstore

$37

Revolve

Why It’s Worth It: Don’t let overgrown roots get in the way—especially if this Best of Beauty-winning root touch-up kit from DpHue has anything to do with it. It brings color back to life with 100% coverage (even on stubborn grays) until your next salon visit. The set also precisely conceals roots and the hairline—kudos to its application process, which includes mixing bowls, gloves, processing cap, and flat-bristled applicator brush (which you can use for mixing, parting, and applying)—for results that last up to two touch-ups. Plus, the gentle cream formula deposits color with low ammonia (high levels can strip cuticles of moisture) to help maintain the integrity of your strands.

Tester feedback from executive beauty director Jenny Bailly

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"I have naturally medium brown hair with blonde highlights throughout and used the dark blonde shade. I woke up the next morning to a perfect match—and no grays. This wasn't my first root touch-up rodeo, and other kits just haven't been able to stamp out all my truly stubborn, pain-in-the-ass grays, and/or the color has faded away in a week or two. This one gave me full coverage and a rich, shiny color that lasted until the professional color appointment I finally made a month later." —Jenny Bailly, executive beauty director

More to know

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• Formula type: permanent
• Shades: 7
• Ammonia-free: no

Best Hair Gloss: Kristin Ess Signature Hair Gloss

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Kristin Ess

Kristin Ess Signature Hair Gloss

$15

Amazon

$15

Ulta Beauty

Why It's Worth It: Think of this Kristin Ess hair gloss as a conditioning toner: Not only does it boost your color's vibrancy (no matter how long it's been since the salon visit), but it also keeps your hair feeling healthy and looking super shiny. Recommended by bicoastal hair colorist Cherin Choi, its Alkaline Neutralizing System (a gentle pH system) adds a layer of much-needed protection, preventing hard-water minerals from being deposited onto your hair and scalp, plus an Anti-Oxidant Complex (a.k.a. a proprietary blend of conditioning ingredients such as avocado, sunflower seed, and castor seed oils) that helps slow the color fading process and keep your hair vibrant for longer. All in all, your color will last three to four weeks and gradually fade depending on how often you wash your hair.

More to know

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• Formula type: temporary
• Shades: 8
• Ammonia-free: yes

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know what shade to dye my hair?

The first rule of thumb—and a solid piece of advice to live by—is that looks can be deceiving. It may seem like your dream shade is staring right at you, but our best bet is to turn the package around and see how the formula will actually look on your hair type, explains hairstylist Andrew Fitzsimons, who the Kardashian-Jenner family has on speed dial.

"Be sure to thoroughly consult the chart on the side or the back, which gives a better indication of where your hair color will end up, based on your beginning hue," says Fitzsimons. Dana Ionato, a New York City-based colorist, agrees: "The color always ends up lighter than the model's hair on the packaging [because] the developer in at-home permanent dyes is very strong—stronger than the ones we use in the salon—so it lifts the color and makes it lighter than what you see on the box."

Even if you consult the back of the box for guidance, it can still be tricky to figure out your perfect shade. According to Ionato, for at-home permanent dyes, your best bet is choosing a color that's a touch darker than what you're going for because of the strong developer. But for semi-permanent dyes, it's the opposite. "Semi-permanent formulas don't have a developer, meaning they get darker and darker the longer you leave them in your hair, so it's safer to choose a color that's a bit lighter from the get-go," Ionato explains.

According to Fitzsimons, conditioning is another crucial step you don't want to miss. "Using a deep conditioner at the end of the dyeing process seals the cuticle, so your strands stop absorbing the color," he says. “If you skip conditioning, you'll end up darker than you expected.”

How much hair dye should you use?

You’d be surprised by the amount of product you might need to use to completely transform your hair. According to bicoastal hairstylist Meri Kate O’Conner, hair can quickly soak up hair dye, especially if it is damaged—meaning your cuticles are lifted and more porous—which can lead to missed spots once you run out of product. “Never try to stretch the formula—insufficient saturation [flat or streaky dye] is one of the biggest causes of patchy color,” mentions Mena.

Your hair length and density also play a factor in how much product you use. “If you have short or fine hair, one box will typically be enough, but if you have long, thick, or very dense hair, I always recommend having two boxes on hand” to completely saturate your strands, says Murphy. So when in doubt: “It’s always better to have extra color than not enough,” shares Gonzalez.

How can I make my at-home hair dye last?

To make your hair dye last, aftercare matters most to maintain color vibrancy. As a start, Mena recommends waiting at least 48 hours before washing your hair, incorporating a sulfate-free, color-safe shampoo on wash days, and always rinsing with cool to lukewarm water. Instead of conditioner, Richards says to swap it in with a hair mask to keep your cuticles healthy—Mena adds that this step is especially important for blondes, brunettes, and redheads. You’ll also want to avoid heat-styling (unless you use a heat protectant) as often as possible, excessive sun exposure, chlorine, and frequent use of clarifying shampoos—all of the above can accelerate fading.

Meet the experts

• Cherin Choi is a bicoastal hair colorist.
• Gillian Doland is a New York City-based hairstylist.
• Andrew Fitzsimons is a Los Angeles-based hairstylist.
• Jess Gonzalez is a hair colorist at Flore Salon in West Hollywood, California.
• Lorena Martinez Valdes is a colorist at Maxine Salon in Chicago.
• Marc Mena is a bicoastal hairstylist.
• Damian Monzillo is a Los Angeles-based hairstylist and colorist.
• Taylor Murphy is a North Carolina-based hairstylist.
• Meri Kate O’Connor is a colorist at Salon Benjamin in West Hollywood, California, and New York City.
• Tiffanie Richards is a master colorist at Louise O’Connor Salon in New York City.

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 at-home hair color products, we enlisted the help of multiple editors, writers, contributors, and professional colorists to find the most vibrant, long-lasting hair dye formulations. 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.

Collage: Jemeria Davison; Source images: Courtesy of brandsSave StorySave this storySave StorySave this story

If you’ve found your way here, it’s likely because you spend a good amount of time scrolling through the Sephora website. (Same.) Well, consider this your sign to keep filling up your cart because Sephora’s Holiday Savings Event is back with deals on everything—yes, everything. From curling irons to lip glosses to eye patches, the entire Sephora website is on sale now through November 3 with up to 20% off, depending on your Beauty Insider (BI) tier. (As a reminder, it’s totally free to sign up to become a BI—and Insider and VIB membership depends on how much you spend in a calendar year.) Here’s the tiered sale breakdown:

• Rouge members enjoy 20% off from October 30 to November 9.
• VIB members enjoy 15% off from November 3 to November 9.
• Beauty Insider members enjoy 10% off from November 3 to November 9.
• All tiers automatically earn 30% off Sephora Collection products and free shipping.

Note: The prices listed below reflect the 20% off rate for Rouge members that runs from October 30 to November 9.

Our Top Sephora Holiday Sales Event Deals

• Pillow Soft: YSL Beauty Skin Affair Soft Glow Cushion Foundation, $49 $39
• Dew Better: Tatcha The Dewy Skin Cream, $74 $59
• Dreaming of Paradise: Voluspa Tahitian Coconut Vanilla Glass Jar Candle, $38 $30
• Dynamic Duo: Rhode Mauve Pocket Pair, $38 $30
• All-In-One: Shark Beauty Shark Glam 5-in-1 Ceramic & Powerful Air Styling & Drying System + Diffuser, $449 $359

Now, I know, the thought of actually scrolling through thousands of products to find the best deals sounds daunting. So, we did it for you. Below, see some of Allure’s editor-approved recommendations and a few Best of Beauty Award winners to shop ASAP.

Gift Sets

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Sephora Favorites

Holiday Must-Haves Makeup & Skincare Value Set

$59 $47 (20% off)

Sephora

For the beauty lover in your life who’s always looking to try new products (or constantly needs a restock), look no further than this gift set. This nine-piece set includes an assortment of Sephora’s best-selling skin care, hair care, and makeup from coveted brands like Fenty Beauty, Merit, and Rare Beauty—all snuggled inside a cute pink puffer bag.

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Rhode

Mauve Pocket Pair

$38 $30 (21% off)

Sephora

Hailey Bieber has built her Rhode brand on an easy, breezy approach to makeup. This lip-and-cheek set includes the Rhode Pocket Blush (which Bieber is known to tap onto her lips and cheeks) and the viral Peptide Lip Tint, which adds a just-bitten wash of color to your lips whenever you need it.

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Eadem

Mini Le Chouchou Mini Lip Balm Trio

$39 $31 (21% off)

Sephora

If you consider yourself at all immersed in the beauty world, there’s almost no way that you haven’t seen the chrome tubes of Le Chouchou Lip Balm. The rich, silky formula coats the lips with collagen-boosting peptides, Brazilian acai butter, and African mongongo butter to plump and lock in moisture, while lactic acid and hibiscus flower enzymes buff away dry, flaky texture. The set includes clear and pink shades (Butter Mochi, Sakura Shaved Ice, and Fig Sauce) that are perfect for everyday hydration and a pop of color.

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Farmacy

Sweet Clean Trio Gift Set

$35 $28 (20% off)

Sephora

This trio of Farmacy’s Best of Beauty-winning cleansing balms features sunflower seed oil and an antioxidant-rich blend of upcycled moringa, basil, and arugula to melt away sunscreen, makeup, and the day’s grime—leaving skin feeling soft and soothed.

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Olaplex

Total Hair Repair Set

$58 $46 (21% off)

Sephora

When your hair is in desperate need of a full-on reset, wash day starts before you shampoo. Take Olaplex’s No.3 Plus, a pre-shampoo treatment that uses the brand’s signature Bond Building Technology to help repair cuticles and damaged strands in just three minutes. This gift set provides you with everything you need—the pre-shampoo treatment, shampoo, and conditioner—for refreshed, silky-smooth results.

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Saie

Best of Saie Mini Vanity Case Vault

$155 $124 (20% off)

Sephora

For the loyal makeup lover who likes a straightforward routine, the Saie Mini Case Vault comes with all of the essentials you need for a quick makeup look. The case comes with mini versions of best sellers—we’re partial to Best of Beauty winners like the CitySet Setting Spray and Glowy Super Gel—in a travel-ready brown vanity case.

Makeup

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Yves Saint Laurent

Skin Affair Soft Glow Cushion Foundation

$49 $39 (20% off)

Sephora

You may have started to believe finding a foundation that truly leaves a skin-like finish is a myth, but this YSL Beauty cushion foundation will prove you wrong. This easily buildable, medium-coverage formula is lightweight and infused with hydrating ingredients like squalane, niacinamide, and polyglutamic acid, resulting in a melt-into-your-skin, glowy finish.

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Haus Labs

Triclone Skin Tech Concealer

$32 $26 (19% off)

Sephora

Let’s all take a moment to say thank you to Lady Gaga for this Best of Beauty Award-winning concealer. Triclone is a long-wearing formula that gives you brightening, hydrating, and non-creasing coverage, and it comes with a tapered doe-foot applicator to easily work product into finicky areas, like the inner corners

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Danessa Myricks Beauty

Yummy Skin Liquid Blurring Balm Mattifying Setting Spray

$36 $29 (19% off)

Sephora

If you want to double down on the blurring, mattifying effect that comes from Danessa Myricks face products, you’re in luck. This Best of Beauty-winning setting spray uses the brand’s signature Upsalite ingredient to absorb sweat and oil, leaving you with a smooth, pore-minimizing finish and comfortable, all-day wear.

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Flutterhabit

Lash Extension Kit

$25 $20 (20% off)

Sephora

Whether you’re a falsies pro or newbie, these pre-mapped lash clusters are an easy way to give your eyes a dramatic boost. With proper application, the long-wearing adhesive keeps these lashes in place for up to 10 days, and they’re easy to remove and reuse if you only want a short-term boost for special occasions.

Hair

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Amika

Hydro Rush Intense Moisture Hair Mask

$44 $35 (20% off)

Sephora

Winter winds can be harsh on your hair, putting it at risk for dryness and breakage. Amika’s Hydro Rush Intense Moisture Mask, one of our all-time favorites, uses bio-fermented coconut water to deeply hydrate brittle hair and squalane to lock in moisture and defend against even the coldest temperatures.

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K18

AirWash Dry Shampoo

$48 $38 (21% off)

Sephora

Many dry shampoos simply sit atop your strands, leaving a chalky residue that doesn’t do much to actually clean your hair. This dry shampoo features translucent microbeads to absorb oil without a gritty white cast. As a bonus, the brand’s patented OdorBind biotechnology traps and eliminates odors—because who doesn’t want to smell fresh, especially when you’re on day-three hair?

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Shark Beauty

Shark Glam 5-in-1 Ceramic & Powerful Air Styling & Drying System + Diffuser

$449 $359 (20% off)

Sephora

Switching from your blow-dryer to your flatiron to your curling iron is exhausting. (And who needs all those tangled cords?) This tool combines five into one gorgeous, golden vessel that can transform your wet hair into voluminous curls, or a silky-smooth, straight look without all of the unplugging and replugging.

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GHD

Chronos Curve Grand Iron

$259 $207 (20% off)

Sephora

Maintaining healthy hair while heat-styling can feel impossible—unless, of course, there’s a tool that automatically pre-heats to 365 degrees Farenheit, the ideal temperature GHD claims results in minimal damage. This 1.25” curling iron heats up in just 25 seconds and curls and sets each section in just three to five seconds—because you haven’t got all day.

Skin

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Tatcha

The Dewy Skin Cream

$74 $59 (20% off)

Sephora

When it comes to an editor-beloved moisturizer that hydrates, softens, and leaves a healthy, all-day glow, few can compete with Tatcha’s The Dewy Skin Cream. Key ingredients like hyaluronic acid and red algae plump and smooth the skin, while Japanese purple rice provides antioxidant protection.

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Biodance

Collagen Peptide Eye Patches

$23 $18 (22% off)

Sephora

The extra me-time you have during the holiday break is best spent hanging out with family, catching up on TV shows, and giving your skin more TLC with all of the masks. These adorable pink Biodance eye masks are infused with collagen and peptides to firm and refresh tired under-eyes. They are also packed with caffeine to reduce the look of puffiness. Who would’ve thought something so small could pack such a punch?

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Paula's Choice

Skin Perfecting 2% BHA Exfoliating Toner

$37 $30 (19% off)

Sephora

If you struggle with textured skin, chemical exfoliators can be a useful addition to your routine—even if you have sensitive skin. This Best of Beauty Award-winning exfoliator has a 2% concentration of salicylic acid that penetrates deep into the skin to unclog pores, revealing smoother, brighter skin with consistent use.

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Beauty of Joseon

Day Dew Sunscreen SPF 50

$18 $14 (22% off)

Sephora

Meet Beauty of Joseon’s 2.0 sunscreen: Day Dew. This lightweight formula blends the hydration of a moisturizing cream with ample SPF 50 protection—without the white cast, of course. With the addition of nourishing ingredients like niacinamide, hyaluronic acid, and panthenol, you get a fresh, dewy finish. It’s the best of both worlds.

Fragrance

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Miu Miu

Fleur de Lait Eau de Parfum

$180 $144 (20% off)

Sephora

Fruity floral fragrances can quickly venture into childish territory, almost like the first body mist you tried as a kid that never quite grew up. This isn’t that. This Best of Beauty winner’s notes of mango and osmanthus convey the beloved bright, fresh scent of a fruity fragrance, while notes of coconut milk add a creamy richness that makes this scent feel more elevated.

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Dedcool

Mineral Milk Eau de Parfum

$90 $72 (20% off)

Sephora

If you could bottle up the feeling of wrapping yourself in your coziest cashmere sweater, you’d end up with DedCool’s Mineral Milk perfume. Its notes of nectar, lavender, and amber create a subtle sweetness that feels perfectly cozy for the fall and winter months.

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Carolina Herrera

Good Girl Blush Eau de Parfum

$184 $147 (20% off)

Sephora

The Carolina Herrera Good Girl heel is a classic silhouette, but the mandarin, ylang-ylang, and vanilla notes in the Blush Eau de Parfum will continue to impress you with every spritz of its delicious aroma.

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Voluspa

Tahitian Coconut Vanilla Glass Jar Candle

$38 $30 (21% off)

Sephora

Paradise is a state of mind. So even if you’re spending your holiday bundled up by a fireside, this warm gourmand candle, with notes of coconut milk, white peach, and vanilla, will transport you to a tropical beach vacation. For a few moments, you can trade in your hot chocolate for a piña colada.

Frequently Asked Questions

How We Find the Best Sephora Spring Savings Event Deals

Our shopping team searches daily for the best beauty products in the industry. We enlist the help of multiple editors, writers, contributors, and experts to determine which products are really worth your penny. Our sales stories are no different: We base our discounted selections on products with over 4.0 ratings, past Allure Best of Beauty award winners, and those that our editors and experts have tried and given a stamp of approval.

Why Trust Allure?

No matter what you seek or your individual needs and concerns, we want 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.

Collage: Jemeria Davison; Source images: Courtesy of brandsSave StorySave this storySave StorySave this story

Even for the most experienced among us, a smooth shave is hardly a slam dunk. But using the best razors cuts down on the guesswork—and minimizes the risk of nicks, razor burn, and stubble. We've all been in a rut where, despite using the same razor for every sesh, or being diligent about swapping out disposables, no two shaves seem to deliver the same results: Your skin is irritated, you missed some stubble, or ingrowns have popped up. Using the right razor can make all of the difference. The blade quality, handle weight and design, and how well a razor moves along body contours can all help you find the right fit for your skin type, hair texture, and shaving routine.

Our Top Razors

• Best Overall: Flamingo 5-Blade Razor, $8
• Best Full-Body Trimmer: Fur Trim System, $120
• Best for Dry Skin: Gillette Venus MoistureGlide Razor, $15
• Best for the Bikini Line: Schick Hydro Silk TrimStyle Razor, $21

Frequently Asked QuestionsAccordionItemContainerButtonLargeChevron

• What’s the best type of razor for a close shave?
• How do cartridge razors work?
• Should I use a safety razor?
• What are the benefits of electric razors?
• Meet the experts
• How we test and review products
• Our staff and testers

Whether you’re looking for a gentler option for sensitive skin or electric razors that make touch-ups a breeze, these picks help make every pass a little smoother. Here’s what editors and dermatologists recommend for every grooming preference.

Best Overall: Flamingo 5-Blade Razor

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Flamingo

5-Blade Razor

$16

Amazon

$8

Shop

Why it's worth it: When it comes to shaving, the little details matter—and the extra thought that went into Flamingo's Best of Beauty-winning 5-Blade Razor has made all the difference, allowing it to check all of the boxes for getting a comfy shave every time. The flexible hinge helps the razor adjust to contours, while the aloe and shea butter-coated strip helps create a smooth, moisturized glide—and fewer bumps as a result. California-based board-certified dermatologist Azadeh Shirazi, MD, previously told Allure that the non-slip grip of the razor's handle helps you better control your strokes, which can cut down on nicks, too.

And unlike most cartridge razors, this one has a weighted handle, which makes it easier to control without adding too much pressure. Just give the blades a quick rinse before your next shave—a step you should always follow to keep buildup at bay.

Tester feedback from contributing commerce editor Deanna Pai

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“I wasn’t really loyal to any razor brand, but since using Flamingo several years back, I haven’t strayed since. The hinged razor head makes it easy for me to shave my knees and in the hollow of my armpits without risking a nick. It’s also super-gentle: I can even swipe the back of my legs with minimal shave gel and not have to worry about irritation.”—Deanna Pai, contributing commerce editor

Tester feedback from senior staff writer Elizabeth Gulino

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"I’ve been using Flamingo’s original razor for quite some time now, so it’s become a staple in my Everything Shower routine. I’m a bit chaotic when I shave (sorry!), but this razor hasn’t given me any signs of irritation or painful nicks, which is likely due to the non-slip handle and hinged razor head. And for both, I’m thankful." —Elizabeth Gulino, senior staff writer

More to know

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• Type of razor: cartridge
• Number of blades: 5
• Refills included: 3

Best Full-Body Trimmer: Fur Trim System

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Fur

Trim System

$120

Ulta Beauty

$120

Revolve

Why it’s worth it: The Best of Beauty-winning Fur Trim System is like the Swiss Army knife of trimmers: It precisely trims and closely shaves for effortless grooming from head to toe. Choose from three interchangeable attachments to go all out down there or to neatly shape facial hair without tugging or irritation.

The trimmer’s motor and ceramic, rust-resistant blade create a smooth, even glide that feels comfortable—never scratchy—against skin (even without its attachments). If you want an even closer shave, swap out the head with the three-blade razor, or reach for the two-length trimmer attachment to customize your trim. On top of that, it's water-resistant—a feature you don’t typically get from bikini trimmers—and has an LED light that spotlights your shave in and outside the shower, so you can get the closest result yet.

Tester feedback from designer Briana Rengifo

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"I really enjoy the design of this trim system. The little light helps me shave my bikini line very easily, and the three head lengths help make this trimmer similar to my regular razor because of how small and close one of the heads can cut." —Briana Rengifo, designer

More to know

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• Type of razor: electric
• Number of blades: 3 (razor), 1 ceramic blade (trimmer), 1 trimming guard
• Refills included: none

Best for Dry Skin: Gillette Venus MoistureGlide Razor

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Gillette

Venus MoistureGlide Razor

$15

Amazon

Why it’s worth it: What do you get when you combine the convenience of a razor with the moisturizing benefits of shaving cream? The Best of Beauty-winning Gillette Venus MoistureGlide Razor, of course. While its ergonomic shape and matching silver mount are reason enough to keep it in your shower, the generously lubricated gel bars are where the razor really shines. While shaving cream is ideal for protecting skin and ensuring a glide, this razor’s built-in strips help minimize friction and soothe dry skin, thanks to a blend of argan, olive, and avocado oils. Add in the sharp, five-blade head and weighted metal handle, and you’ve got a razor that takes care of every hair without sacrificing healthy, hydrated skin.

Tester feedback from senior art director Ingrid Fowler

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"This razor has been a favorite of mine for years. The two large moisture strips and five blades make for the smoothest shave, and Gillette has clearly perfected the angle of their blades because I never get cuts. Plus, it's available so broadly that it's easy to pick up replacement heads—even when traveling.” —Ingrid Fowler, senior art director

More to know

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• Key ingredients: argan oil, olive oil, avocado oil, niacinamide
• Type of razor: cartridge
• Number of blades: 5
• Refills included: 2

Best for the Bikini Line: Schick Hydro Silk TrimStyle Razor

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Schick

Hydro Silk TrimStyle Razor

$21

Amazon

Why it’s worth it: Consider this your sign to retire the one-trick razor in your shower—this whole-body, double-duty tool makes tidying up below the belt a whole lot easier. Whether you’re looking to go bare, trim up the sides, or hey, embrace the bush (and groom it accordingly), the Best of Beauty-winning Schick Hydro Silk TrimStyle Razor is designed with a multi-blade razor on one end and a built-in trimmer on the other, so you can customize your shaving routine.

The razor’s five-blade head follows the contours of your thighs and bikini line to catch stray hairs. Meanwhile, its lubricating strips are infused with hydrating shea butter, hyaluronic acid, and plant oils, including coconut and avocado oils, for a seamless glide that helps minimize irritation. But if you need a quick touch-up, flip it around to the trimmer end, which has four trim lengths to shape and shave as you please. Now that’s a win-win.

Tester feedback from senior editor Jesa Marie Calaor

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“When it comes to body hair removal, I’ve been loyal to one tool: the Schick Hydro Silk TrimStyle. I absolutely haaaate managing my body hair, but it’s a necessary evil because of how uncomfortable it can be when it grows out. (My body hair grows in thick and wavy.) This dual-ended device saves me time, allowing me to switch seamlessly between the battery-operated trimmer and razor. Even better, it’s so durable. It lives in my shower, yet I’ve had the same TrimStyle handle for about three years. (I’ve replaced the razor head multiple times over that period.)” —Jesa Marie Calaor, senior editor

More to know

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• Key ingredients: shea butter, hyaluronic acid, coconut oil, avocado oil
• Type of razor: cartridge and electric
• Number of blades: 5 (razor), 1 ceramic blade (trimmer), 1 trimming cap
• Refills included: 1

Best Subscription: Billie Razor Starter Kit

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Billie

Razor

$15

Amazon (3 Refills)

$12

Ulta Beauty (2 Refills)

Why it's worth it: In a perfect world, you should swap out your razorhead when it starts to get dull. But in real life? You might keep working with a dull blade for months (and months). That’s where the Billie Razor comes in. The Best of Beauty-winning Starter Kit comes with two stainless steel blades, bordered by a soothing aloe rim, positioned on a grippy, rubber-backed handle that comes in so many sweet colors.

It also has a magnetic wall mount that snugly cradles your razor to keep it from clattering to the tile and gathering mildew and rust between shaving sessions. You can order one-off blade/razor combos, but the subscription model is part of what made the brand so splashy when it hit the scene in 2017. Set up refills every four weeks (and adjust the timing if you find you’re running low), or shop the razor on its own.

More to know

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• Key ingredients: aloe
• Type of razor: cartridge
• Number of blades: 5
• Refills included: 2

Best Weighted: Hanni Weighted Razor

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Hanni

Weighted Razor

$42

Shop

$42

Revolve

Why it's worth it: If single-blade razors spike a few nerves, this Best of Beauty-winning weighted razor requires zero pressure—literally, no need to apply any weight—to get a close, even shave. The Hanni Weighted Razor was designed with 100% Swedish stainless metal to eliminate plastic waste and the constant tug-and-pull from flimsy, plastic razors. While it is technically a “safety razor” (meaning it uses a single exposed blade, versus several tucked into a cartridge), both the mechanics and design are anything but cumbersome. The razor head is double-sided so you can tackle more skin in fewer strokes (and without constantly rinsing the blade), and installing and replacing it is intuitive. (Check out Hanni's tutorial if you need some guidance.)

Measuring five inches, the handle’s longer length can also help “make holding the razor more comfortable and allow for better control when maneuvering over the skin," Dr. Shirazi previously told Allure. Just make sure to change your blade after four to six uses, depending on your hair coarseness, for best results. (Only Hanni’s blade refills will fit!)

More to know

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• Type of razor: safety
• Number of blades: 1
• Refills included: 5

Best for Sensitive Skin: Athena Club Razor

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Athena Club

Razor

$20

Amazon

$10

Shop

Why It's Worth It: Shaving can be a gamble for sensitive skin, especially when you’re working with a dull blade (which makes you even more prone to razor burns, redness, and nicks). The Best of Beauty-winning Athena Club Razor, another subscription-based service (which you set up on the brand’s site), keeps sensitive skin types in mind with its ultra-gentle but thorough performance.

For instance, its five blades are thoughtfully spaced, readily adapting to every curve and contour, while the water-activated hyaluronic serum strip ensures your skin stays all lubed up, helping you steer clear of pesky cuts and ingrowns (but again, we’ll never tell you not to use shaving cream). The silicone-coated aluminum handle offers a secure, slip-free grip, and the gorgeous range of colorways—from a vibrant pink to a minty blue—is the cherry on top. You can choose to get your replacement cartridges every month, every two months, or every three months.

Tester feedback from Best of Beauty editorial assistant Arietta Hallcock

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"The Athena Club razor has a sleek magnetic handle that rests on a matching holder on the shower wall. After a reliably smooth shea butter shave, I love how it clicks right into place for drying rather than rusting in a puddle. Plus, it’s reusable with replaceable five-blade heads! It’s an affordable yet elegant fixture of my shower routine that I’ll keep returning to." —Arietta Hallcock, Best of Beauty editorial assistant

More to know

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• Key ingredients: hyaluronic acid
• Type of razor: cartridge
• Number of blades: 5
• Refills included: 1

Best for Thick Hair: Meridian The Premium Trimmer

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Meridian

The Premium Trimmer

$74 $70 (5% off)

Amazon

$74

Shop

Why it's worth it: When tackling big swaths of hair after a shaving hiatus (we have all been there), going in with an analog razor can feel like cutting your front lawn with a pair of office scissors. That's where Meridian's The Premium Trimmer comes in. TikTok clued us into the power of shaving your body—mainly your she-shrubbery—using what is technically a beard trimmer, because it's designed explicitly to motor through coarse hair, wet or dry. But coarse hair grows everywhere, so you can also use this gadget on your pits, legs, and arms.

While it’s not the closest shave, the trimmer is the perfect way to get started before whipping out a cartridge or safety razor. It has a ceramic blade, which, unlike a steel blade, is harder, less resistant to wear, and glides a whole lot more smoothly, preventing irritation and nicks along the way. Add in the nick-guard and protective guide combs, and you can nix bumps for good. "If you are into being bare down there, then a razor is for you. For big-, small-, or medium-bush energy, it's trimmer all the way," Mona Gohara, MD, a board-certified dermatologist in Connecticut, says.

Tester feedback from former news editor Nicola Dall’Asen

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“For my lovely lady garden, I'm never giving up my trimmer because it's so damn easy. I'll also be picking it up for any and all last-minute body-hair removal emergencies.”—Nicola Dall’Asen, former news editor

More to know

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• Type of razor: electric
• Number of blades: 1 ceramic blade, 2 guide combs
• Refills included: none

Best for Face: Tweezerman Facial Razor

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Tweezerman

Facial Razor

$21 $18 (14% off)

Amazon

$21

Nordstrom

$21

Shop

Why It's Worth It: Whether you have peach fuzz on your cheeks or a strip of shadow above your upper lip, the Best of Beauty-winning Tweezerman Facial Razor can handle it. The single-blade dermaplaner is precise and straightforward—making it a great pick for beginners and seasoned pros alike. It gently exfoliates, clearing your face of dead skin, and precisely removes fine hairs along the facial contours to leave skin smooth. The blade itself is sized at just nearly an inch and a half, helping to remove hair in one clean, controlled swoop. It stands out among many of its disposable dermaplaning peers for its replaceable blade, which should be swapped out every two to three months.

Tester feedback from Asen

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"Never has shaving my face felt so fancy. The luxurious weight and sleek silver handle of Tweezerman's Facial Razor takes dermaplaning from a chore to an experience—one where my facial hair feels like it's coming off entirely on its own because the razor is so finely serrated. Plus, I can sidestep the sustainability sin of throwing away single-use plastics, thanks to its refillable razor cartridge."—Nicola Dall’Asen, former news editor

More to know

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• Type of razor: dermaplane
• Number of blades: 1
• Refills included: 2

Frequently Asked Questions

What’s the best type of razor for a close shave?

While different razors offer different means of removing hair, there are some basics every model shares. "The leading edge [of the razor] is designed to gently stretch the skin taut prior to the blade's arrival," explains Erum Ilyas, MD, a board-certified dermatologist in King of Prussia, Pennsylvania. It helps to have a razor edge that uniformly stretches the surface flat to allow the blade to come through with minimal nicks, she says.

As for blades, razors can come in single- or multiple-blade formats and can be spaced differently, but "multiple blades can achieve a closer shave with fewer strokes," says Dr. Ilyas. "Ideally, the blades should be closer together to avoid nicking the skin. If they are too widely spaced, once the first blade drags across a hair, the skin can start to bulge slightly and get nicked by the next blade.” So, a razor with multiple blades can help compensate for the fact that hairs grow in an irregular pattern, meaning more coverage and fewer passes needed, according to San Francisco-based board-certified dermatologist Tracy Evans, MD.

Lastly, the handle should be comfortable enough to avoid the need to vary the pressure applied during the shave, giving you better control with every pass.

How do cartridge razors work?

Cartridge razors feature disposable cartridges, where two to six blades are tightly spaced for a quick, close shave. "The cartridge can often be flexible or gently bent to allow the blades in the cartridge to curve," Dr. Ilyas says, adding that they can be used in areas that require the blade to move with the contours of your skin, like around the knees or bikini area.

While the initial purchase may be cheaper than metal-handled options, the price can add up over time due to the cost of regularly re-upping on cartridges—which you should never skip. If you use a cartridge for too long, you may injure yourself. "Hairs often get trapped between the blades as well, making them less effective over multiple uses," Dr. Ilyas explains.

Disposable razors are similarly constructed, but they’re only designed for one or two uses, says Sonia Batra, MD, a board-certified dermatologist in California. (For reference, the American Academy of Dermatology, or AAD, recommends changing blades or throwing away disposable razors after five to seven shaves to minimize irritation.) "A disposable razor generally has lower-quality blades, so the shave is less close, and you are more likely to nick or cut yourself," Dr. Batra explains.

Should I use a safety razor?

If you’re prone to razor burn from cartridge razors, safety razors can be a gentler alternative to minimize irritation. These come “with closed combs and longer handles that are recommended for women's legs and armpits," says Dr. Batra, who notes they can also be used on the face as a dermaplaning tool to exfoliate the skin while removing peach fuzz.

Safety razors are single-blade razors made for long-term use with a protective device positioned between the blade's edge and the skin. Dr. Batra explains that safety razors use disposable blades, which are much cheaper (10 to 20 cents each) than those used in cartridge razors (typically $2 and up). While there is a bit of a learning curve (even with a protective guard), they’re a whole lot easier to glide than a traditional straight razor.

It’s worth noting that you can’t bring safety razors in carry-on luggage—you need to pack it into a checked bag if you plan to travel with one. So, it’s a good idea to keep your safety razor at home and buy a cartridge razor for trips.

What are the benefits of electric razors?

Electric razors have motorized blades topped with "foil," a.k.a. a thin metal sheet with small holes. "The tiny holes in the foil capture the hair, and the oscillating blades come by and cut it," says Dr. Ilyas. "This makes for a safe and fast shave, but not necessarily as close as with a traditional razor." That can come in handy for grooming sensitive, curved areas, like the bikini or underarms.

How it does this: Rotary electric razors have three circular heads arranged like a triangle. "The round guard of each head captures hairs, and an internal spinning blade or cutter shaves these hairs," Dr. Ilyas says. These gentle yet fast movements allow for quick shaving around the contours of the neck and jawline, where hairs are captured at multiple angles.

However, it's worth noting that even though these are thought to be less irritating, it's possible that not only hair gets pulled into the foil, but the skin as well (ouch). So, as with any shaving tool, glide with caution.

Meet the experts

• Erum Ilyas, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in King of Prussia, Pennsylvania, and founder of UV-protective apparel brand AmberNoon
• Sonia Batra, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in Santa Monica, California, and a co-host of the TV show The Doctors
• Azadeh Shirazi, MD, board-certified dermatologist based in California
• Tracy Evans, MD, board-certified dermatologist and Medical Director of Pacific Skin and Cosmetic Dermatology based in San Francisco
• Mona Gohara, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in Connecticut

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 are particularly discerning when writing about skin-care devices. This is because of the increased risks and, in many cases, the high price points, that accompany at-home dermatological tools and devices.

Each device undergoes extensive testing and must be approved by a senior member of our beauty team prior to appearing in Allure. Additionally, our editorial team consults board-certified dermatologists and cosmetic chemists about the science behind product claims and independently reviews any studies cited by brands. Testers consider performance across four primary categories: efficacy, safety (including ease of use), research and the science behind specific claims, as well as product value. To learn more information 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.