Author: tsxrzj

  • How to Make Your Eyes Look More Open With Makeup—Photos

    How to Make Your Eyes Look More Open With Makeup—Photos

    before and after using makeup techniques to make eyes look more openCourtesy subjectSave StorySave this storySave StorySave this story

    For months, I debated whether to get an upper blepharoplasty to address my increasingly heavy, hooded lids. Before committing to surgery, I tried a lineup of less-invasive in-office treatments—including energy-based devices, a neuromodulator “brow lift,” and regenerative treatments—to tighten the skin and subtly lift my brows. In my opinion, the combination worked. Maintaining it, however, would cost as much as buying a used car…every single year.

    That’s when I started wondering whether I could fake that lifted look using makeup alone. A few good brushes and a tube of mascara are far more palatable than a needle or a device—zero pain, zero downtime, and a much lower recurring bill.

    I called one of my favorite makeup artists, Nick Barose, whose celebrity clients include Lupita Nyong’o, Rachel Weisz, and Brie Larson, to walk me through a full eye-lifting makeup routine. His approach to hooded lids isn’t about camouflage. It’s about creating the illusion of structure where skin has started to flatten or fold. “Adding definition opens up the areas where extra skin is hanging over,” he explains. “You can create the illusion of depth by playing with light and dark, as well as contrasting matte and soft-shimmer textures.” Think less eye shadow, more contour.

    Here’s exactly what he taught me, so you can try it, too.

    1. Prime under the eyes with a tightening gel

    Film-forming gels can visibly smooth and tighten skin for a few hours, with results kicking in after about five minutes. They work by creating a flexible “second skin” (using ingredients like silicates and polymers) that contracts like shrink wrap as it dries, smoothing texture and subtly tightening the area. Caveat: They can flake with sweat or when layered with skin care, so you’ll want to apply a thin layer to clean, dry skin and let it set completely (ideally without making any facial expressions) before you add any makeup on top.

    Try:Red tube of L’Oréal Paris Revitalift Triple Power Eye Bag Instant Eraser with black cap on light gray backgroundSave to wishlistSave to wishlist

    L'Oreal Paris

    RevitaLift Triple Power Eye Bag Instant Eraser

    $22 $20 (9% off)

    Amazon

    $25

    Ulta Beauty

    $20

    Walmart

    Yellow bottle of StriVectin Hyperlift Eye Instant Eye Fix with white cap on light gray background Save to wishlistSave to wishlist

    StriVectin

    Hyperlift Eye Instant Eye Fix

    $49

    Amazon

    $49

    Ulta Beauty

    Gray tube of Dr. Loretta tightening eye gel on light gray backgroundSave to wishlistSave to wishlist

    Dr. Loretta

    Tightening Eye Gel

    $65

    Dermstore

    $65

    Revolve

    2. Lift your crease

    The biggest trick? Ignore your actual crease when applying eye shadow. “You have to cheat it by climbing the color higher on the brow bone,” Barose says. “You want to place the darker color slightly above the crease, or even higher depending on how much extra skin hides in that area when your eyes are open.”

    applying dark shadow to the crease to make eyes look more open

    Creating a new crease

    Courtesy subject

    Using makeup to create definition on hooded lids is essentially about contouring. If you sweep shadow into your natural crease, whether you’re using a single shade or adding a darker color to the crease for a layered look, much of it disappears the second you open your eyes. Barose recommends applying the shadow while looking straight into the mirror, then stepping back three to four feet to check the effect. Up close, it may look exaggerated, but from a normal conversation distance, it reads as definition. A small, tapered crease brush gives you enough precision to place shadow slightly above the natural fold without shading the entire brow bone.

    When picking the shadow for your crease, Barose recommends choosing a cooler, matte shade deep enough to create the appearance of a natural shadow above the crease. On fair-to-medium skin, that might be a cool taupe or gray-brown. On deeper skin, it could be a cool espresso, charcoal-brown, or soft black. The goal is contrast without excess warmth, which can emphasize puffiness on some complexions.

    For my coloring, Barose steered me away from warm or reddish browns. (Cue me tossing all my chestnut and copper shadows into a drawer.) “Avoid red tones,” he says. “Brown that’s too red or a shadow that’s too pink will make hooded eyes look swollen.”

    Try:Photo of Make Up For Ever Aqua Resist Smoky Shadow in Cocoa Save to wishlistSave to wishlist

    Make Up For Ever

    Aqua Resist Smoky Shadow

    $29

    Sephora

    $29

    Make Up For Ever

    Charlotte Tilbury Exagger-Eyes Easy Eyeshadow Stick on light gray backgroundSave to wishlistSave to wishlist

    Charlotte Tilbury

    Exagger-Eyes Easy Eyeshadow Stick

    $32

    Amazon

    $32

    Ulta Beauty

    $32

    Sephora

    The Urban Decay Naked 2 Basics Eye Shadow Palette on a light gray backgroundSave to wishlistSave to wishlist

    Urban Decay

    Naked2 Basics Matte Neutral Eyeshadow Palette

    $35

    Amazon

    $35 $15 (57% off)

    Ulta Beauty

    $35

    Sephora

    ILIA Beauty Blending Brush tool with white handle on light gray backgroundSave to wishlistSave to wishlist

    Ilia Beauty

    Blending Brush

    $27

    Amazon

    $27

    Nordstrom

    $26

    Credo Beauty

    3. Create strong outer corners

    woman applying dark eye shadow to her outer crease to make eyes look more open

    Using a brush as a guide for my outer corners

    Courtesy subject

    Most of us blend out eye shadow until it disappears at the edges. Barose suggests doing the opposite. “You have to kind of not blend the shadow in too much because it will lose definition,” he says. “You’re basically placing the dark eye shadow a bit higher to contour.” Like with the crease definition, this might look like too much when you’re inches away from the mirror, but it will just create depth when viewed from a distance. The goal isn’t a full-on smoky eye. It’s creating the appearance of a deeper eye socket and a more lifted outer corner. A smaller detail blending brush helps build definition on the outer corner without over-blending away the contour.

    Try:Photo of ColourPop That’s Taupe Eyeshadow Palette with 9 shades on light gray backgroundSave to wishlistSave to wishlist

    Colourpop

    That’s Taupe Eyeshadow Palette

    $14

    Amazon

    $14

    Ulta

    Photo of Jones Road Beauty The Best Eyeshadow in Smokey Brown on light gray backgroundSave to wishlistSave to wishlist

    Jones Road Beauty

    The Best Eyeshadow

    $26

    Jones Road Beauty

    Diorshow 5 Couleurs Eyeshadow Palette on light gray backgroundSave to wishlistSave to wishlist

    Dior

    DiorShow 5 Couleurs Eyeshadow Palette

    $72

    Nordstrom

    $72

    Sephora

    Morphe M331 Tapered Blender Eyeshadow Brush on light gray backgroundSave to wishlistSave to wishlist

    Morphe

    M331 Tapered Blender Eyeshadow Brush

    $9

    Ulta Beauty

    4. Go matte…but brighten strategically

    Shimmer catches light. That extra attention is great when you’re highlighting cheekbones. Less great when you’re trying to disguise extra skin. Matte shadows will add definition without accentuating laxity or crepiness in the lids.

    There’s one exception: Some people develop redness or darkness at the corners of the eyes as they age, which can contribute to a tired appearance. And that’s the area where you can break the matte rule. A light-reflecting concealer dabbed at the inner corners, center of the lids, or highest points of the brow bones can help make the eyes appear fresher and more open. A small pencil brush lets you place brightness exactly where you want it and keep that shimmer in its assigned area.

    Try:Navy blue Clé de Peau Beauté Concealer on light gray backgroundSave to wishlistSave to wishlist

    Clé de Peau Beauté

    Concealer SPF 27

    $78

    Amazon

    $78

    Nordstrom

    Gold iconic london radiant concealer & brightening duo on light gray backgroundSave to wishlistSave to wishlist

    Iconic London

    Radiant Concealer & Brightening Duo

    $32

    Amazon

    $29

    Nordstrom

    Black MAC 219S Pencil Brush on light gray backgroundSave to wishlistSave to wishlist

    MAC

    219S Pencil Brush

    $35

    Amazon

    Tube of L’Oréal Paris Infallible Full Wear Waterproof Concealer on light gray backgroundSave to wishlistSave to wishlist

    L'Oréal Paris

    Infallible Full Wear Waterproof Concealer

    $16 $13 (19% off)

    Amazon

    $16

    Ulta Beauty

    5. Make your liner thicker than feels comfortable

    If you have hooded lids, you've probably noticed that much of your upper eyeliner disappears when you open your eyes. “Do eyeliner a bit thick—even double the width you normally do—because most of it gets hidden under hooded lids,” says Barose. His additional rule: Keep darker liner on top, where it will lift the upper lash line, and go softer underneath. “I avoid black liner on the bottom,” he says, because it can pull the shape of your eye downward. “On lower lashes, I’d use a soft gray or taupe brown instead.”

    Try:Black Dior Diorshow On Stage Crayon Kohl Liner with black cap on light gray backgroundSave to wishlistSave to wishlist

    Dior

    Diorshow On Stage Crayon Kohl Liner

    $36

    Nordstrom

    $36

    Ulta Beauty

    $36

    Sephora

    MAC Fluidline Gel Eyeliner with black cap on light gray backgroundSave to wishlistSave to wishlist

    MAC

    Fluidline Gel Eyeliner

    $25

    Nordstrom

    $25

    Ulta Beauty

    Chanel Stylo Yeux Waterproof Longwear Eyeliner in black container on light gray backgroundSave to wishlistSave to wishlist

    Chanel

    Stylo Yeux Waterproof Longwear Eyeliner

    $36

    Nordstrom

    $36

    Ulta Beauty

    $36

    Chanel

    Black Nyx Epic Wear Waterproof Eyeliner Stick on light gray backgroundSave to wishlistSave to wishlist

    Nyx Professional Makeup

    Epic Wear Waterproof Eyeliner Stick

    $9

    Amazon

    $9

    Ulta Beauty

    $9

    Walmart

    6. Focus mascara on the outer corners

    Always curl your lashes, which exposes more sclera (the white part of your eye), and “concentrate mascara on the outer third of the upper lash line for extra lift,” says Barose. Tubing mascaras are particularly helpful because they resist smudging when lashes brush against sagging lids throughout the day.

    Try:Tarte Tartelette Tubing Mascara pink tube with black mascara wand on light grey backgroundSave to wishlistSave to wishlist

    Tarte

    Tartelette Tubing Mascara

    $28

    Amazon

    $28

    Ulta Beauty

    $28

    Dermstore

    Maybelline New York Lash Sensational Sky Tubes Tubing Mascara in branded component on a light gray backgroundSave to wishlistSave to wishlist

    Maybelline New York

    Lash Sensational Sky Tubes Tubing Mascara

    $14 $11 (21% off)

    Amazon

    $14

    Ulta Beauty

    $10

    Walmart

    Merit Clean Volume Volumizing Tubing Mascara in branded component on a light gray backgroundSave to wishlistSave to wishlist

    Merit Beauty

    Clean Volume Mascara

    $28

    Sephora

    $28

    Merit Beauty

    KJH Brand Microscara in branded component on a light gray backgroundSave to wishlistSave to wishlist

    KJH.brand

    Microscara

    $26

    Sephora

    When I finally stopped painting my eyes the way I did at 35 and followed Barose’s advice, the difference was immediate. After clearing my makeup drawers of shimmery shadows and tawny browns, I found a plan that worked for the face I have now. The higher crease placement and stronger outer corner definition made my eyes look less swollen or swallowed by skin overhang. On a girls’ trip to Palm Springs, I did makeup on one eye for my friends, who happen to be struggling with the same issue. They immediately wanted a lesson. For the first time in months, doing my makeup felt enjoyable, not defeating.

    before and after using makeup techniques to make eyes look more openCourtesy subject

    After lots of experimenting, I found that makeup could create many of the same visual cues I had spent eight months chasing elsewhere. More definition and less heaviness. No, it didn’t give me a blepharoplasty. And I’m not a skilled applicator (yet?), so it takes me 20 minutes to pull off the look. But it's repeatable, reversible, and doesn’t require numbing cream—or an annual five-figure budget.

  • Say Hello to Bouncier Waves with These Texture-Enhancing Shampoos

    Say Hello to Bouncier Waves with These Texture-Enhancing Shampoos

    A collage of shampoo bottles.Collage: Paula Balondo; Source images: Courtesy of brandsSave StorySave this storySave StorySave this story

    If you have naturally wavy hair that falls flat by midday—or just fails to hold any shape whatsoever—you might need to rethink how you’re washing. The best shampoos for wavy hair can be crucial when it comes to bringing life back into your strands. And while many shampoos these days are finally easing up on the harsh, oil-stripping cleansing agents (bye, sulfates!) and replacing them with more nourishing ingredients, the ratio isn't always quite right for waves.

    Unlike curls and coils, wavy hair typically benefits from lightweight hydration—emphasis on “lightweight”—to maintain its pattern. In this case, "more moisture isn’t always better,” says Joseph Chase, a hairstylist based in Los Angeles. “The right amount of moisture is what gives you softness and definition.” In other words, wavy hair is like the Goldilocks of hair types: It needs just enough moisture to reduce frizz and add shine, but not so much that it weighs down, flattens, or stretches out waves.

    Our Top Shampoos for Wavy Hair

    • Best Overall: Living Proof Perfect Hair Day Shampoo, $36
    • Best for Fine Hair: Joico HydraSplash Hydrating Shampoo, $24
    • Best for Frizz: Amika Forget Frizz Anti-Frizz Shampoo, $28
    • Best for Dry Hair: Shu Uemura Urban Moisture Deep Hydration Shampoo, $56

    Frequently Asked QuestionsAccordionItemContainerButtonLargeChevron

    • What ingredients should people look for in a shampoo for wavy hair?
    • How can I hydrate wavy hair?
    • Meet the experts
    • How we test and review products
    • Our staff and testers

    The right shampoo for wavy hair sets you up for an effective and low-maintenance hair-care routine that’s tailored to your texture. Whether you’re in need of a deep cleanse or hoping to add more volume, scroll ahead for tried-and-true shampoos for wavy hair that will keep your pattern defined and full of bounce.

    Best Overall: Living Proof Perfect Hair Day Shampoo

    Living Proof Perfect Hair Day Shampoo in branded component on a light gray backgroundSave to wishlistSave to wishlist

    Living Proof

    Perfect Hair Day Shampoo

    $36

    Amazon

    $36

    Nordstrom

    $36

    Ulta Beauty

    Why we love it: Wavy hair requires a shampoo that meets it in the middle—namely, a formula that balances cleansing oily roots and lightly hydrating lengths without affecting its natural pattern. That’s where Living Proof Perfect Hair Day Shampoo shines. The formula (which has taken home both Best of Beauty and Readers' Choice Awards, no big deal) mimics the key benefits of silicone—like softness, shine, to name a few—without actually using any silicone.

    That leaves strands noticeably fresher and fuller, adding more movement without the heavy feel and buildup that can accompany silicones. “This gives you that balance: hair feels clean and light while staying soft and moving,” Chase says. Bonus: Its rich, satisfying lather has a light citrus scent to make wash days feel just a little more elevated.

    More to know

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    • Key ingredients: propylene glycol, sunflower and coconut derivatives
    • Sulfate-free: yes

    Best for Fine Hair: Joico HydraSplash Hydrating Shampoo

    Joico HydraSplash Hydrating Shampoo in branded component on a light gray backgroundSave to wishlistSave to wishlist

    Joico

    HydraSplash Hydrating Shampoo

    $24

    Amazon

    $25

    Ulta Beauty

    Why we love it: Lightweight hydration might be the name of the game, but if your waves are especially fine or thin, you might need to skip some of the more moisturizing ingredients. The Joico HydraSplash Hydrating Shampoo swaps the usual suspects for keratin (a protective protein) and natural hydrators like coconut water and sea kelp to replenish dry hair while thoroughly cleansing it.

    In other words, it's a happy medium: “It's less rich than a shampoo for coarser hair, but it still adds all the moisture the hair needs so the finer waves stay light, defined, and bouncy,” says Los Angeles-based hairstylist Rikke Gajda. The formula also relies on a liposome delivery system (which encapsulates some of the active ingredients) to continuously release rosehip oil, arginine, and keratin throughout the day, locking in shine and smoothness long after you rinse.

    More to know

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    • Key ingredients: coconut water, sea kelp, keratin
    • Sulfate-free: no

    Best for Mixed Wave Patterns: Briogeo Curl Charisma Rice Amino and Avocado Hydrating Shampoo

    Briogeo Curl Charisma Rice Amino and Avocado Hydrating Shampoo in branded component on a light gray backgroundSave to wishlistSave to wishlist

    Briogeo

    Curl Charisma Rice Amino and Avocado Hydrating Shampoo

    $28

    Nordstrom

    $28

    Ulta Beauty

    $28

    Sephora

    Why we love it: IYKYK: Frizz control starts with your shampoo, which acts as the first step to resolving drynessBriogeo's Curl Charisma Rice Amino and Avocado Hydrating Shampoo is packed with amino acids, tomato fruit extract, and vitamin E to smooth dry cuticles and improve your natural texture, while shea butter and avocado oil leave waves soft and moisturized. “This is going to be great for a wavy-haired person who doesn't necessarily need more volume, but wants their waves to look healthier and more defined,” says New York City-based colorist Tiffanie Richards.

    Translation: It defines and enhances the pattern you already have, so your waves (and curls) look smoother and more polished. For even bouncier curl definition, our editors love pairing the shampoo with the Curl Charisma Rice Amino & Shea Curl Defining Conditioner.

    More to know

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    • Key ingredients: amino acids, tomato fruit extract, shea butter, avocado oil, vitamin E
    • Sulfate-free: no

    Best for Frizz: Amika Forget Frizz Anti-Frizz Shampoo

    Amika Forget Frizz Anti-Frizz Shampoo in branded component on a light gray backgroundSave to wishlistSave to wishlist

    Amika

    Forget Frizz Anti-Frizz Shampoo

    $28

    Amazon

    $28

    Ulta Beauty

    $28

    Sephora

    Why we love it: Just as with curly hair, wavy hair is prone to frizz—though usually to a lesser extent. To stop it before it starts, lather with Amika’s Forget Frizz Anti-Frizz Shampoo. Its texture is "slightly on the richer side, so it's amazing for thicker hair because it locks in moisture," Connecticut-based hairstylist Taylor Murphy previously explained to Allure. The sulfate-free shampoo starts with a satisfying trio of sea buckthorn, coconut oil, and water lily extract that nourish from scalp-to-ends, helping to restore shine and make hair easier to style. It’ll keep you covered even on rainy days, with a ‘humidity shield’ technology that blocks humidity and creates a silky barrier over strands.

    More to know

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    • Key ingredients: water lily extract, silicone, sea buckthorn oil
    • Sulfate-free: yes

    Best Clarifying Shampoo: Ouai Detox Shampoo

    Ouai Detox Shampoo in branded bottle component on a light gray background with the 2026 best of beauty seal in the top right cornerSave to wishlistSave to wishlist

    Ouai

    Detox Shampoo

    $34

    Amazon

    $34

    Ulta Beauty

    $34

    Sephora

    Why we love it: If greasy strands or buildup-laden roots are weighing your hair down, Ouai’s Detox Shampoo is a go-to for bringing the bounce back to waves that have fallen. It breaks down dirt, product buildup, and grime with apple cider vinegar, which acts as an astringent. For those living in an area with hard water, the formula also consists of chelating agents—ingredients that latch onto hard-water minerals so you can rinse them out—to remove impurities that might be “preventing your waves from absorbing hydration,” Richards says.

    Hydrolyzed keratin, meanwhile, fills in the gaps in the cuticle by improving elasticity and damage caused by daily styling, heat, and environmental stressors. Because it’s a deep-cleaning formula, Richards recommends washing with the shampoo just a few times a month—just be sure to follow with a moisturizing treatment after to keep waves soft.

    More to know

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    • Key ingredients: apple cider vinegar, hydrolyzed keratin, chelating agents
    • Sulfate-free: yes

    Best for Thinning Hair: Kérastase Densifique Bain Densité Shampoo

    Kérastase Densifique Bain Densité Shampoo in branded tube component with silver cap on a light gray backgroundSave to wishlistSave to wishlist

    Kérastase

    Densifique Bain Densité Shampoo

    $48

    Amazon

    $48

    Sephora

    Why we love it: When waves start to thin out—whether due to age, postpartum hair loss, or genetic hair loss—they can lose their natural pattern and definition, causing roots to go flat fast. Kérastase’s Densifique Bain Densité Shampoo can help, balancing a deep cleanse with density-boosting (and hydrating) ingredients, including hyaluronic acid, ceramides, and gluco-peptides, to plump the cuticle and reduce breakage from root-to-tip.

    The gel texture lightly clarifies the scalp and volumizes the roots with the help of salicylic and glutamic acids. The result? Hair appears “fuller and stronger without coating it or weighing it down,” says Chase, so strands appear fuller and thicker. The notes of bergamot, pink mint, cedar, and musk turn this thinning hair treatment into a luxury form of self-care.

    More to know

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    • Key ingredients: hyaluronic acid, ceramides, and gluco-peptides
    • Sulfate-free: no

    Best for Dry Hair: Shu Uemura Urban Moisture Deep Hydration Shampoo

    Shu Uemura Urban Moisture Deep Hydration Shampoo in branded bottle component on a light gray backgroundSave to wishlistSave to wishlist

    Shu Uemura

    Urban Moisture Deep Hydration Shampoo

    $58

    Amazon

    $58

    Sephora

    Why we love it: Dry waves need moisture to thrive, but too much can make them go limp. If that sounds familiar, Michelle Hong, a New York City-based colorist, calls Shu Uemura’s Urban Moisture Deep Hydration Shampoo her go-to for dry, frizz-prone waves. Think of it as an instant hydration boost with protective benefits: The formula relies on humectants (like glycerin and propylene glycol) to help attract and retain moisture levels, as well as antioxidants (such as moringa oil) to protect against environmental stressors, including heat and pollution, that can cause incidental dryness. Another plus: If your hair is dry from color processing, this shampoo is also color-safe.

    More to know

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    • Key ingredients: glycerin, propylene glycol, Japanese moringa oil extract, Japanese red micro-algae extract
    • Sulfate-free: no

    Best for Color-Treated Hair: Wella Professionals Ultimate Repair Shampoo and Conditioner

    Wella Professionals Ultimate Repair Shampoo and Conditioner in branded components on a light gray backgroundSave to wishlistSave to wishlist

    Wella Professionals

    Ultimate Repair Shampoo and Conditioner

    $70

    Amazon

    $35

    Ulta Beauty (Shampoo)

    $35

    Ulta Beauty (Conditioner)

    Why we love it: For color-treated waves, the Wella Professionals Ultimate Repair Shampoo targets damage—both from heat and chemical processes—without disrupting your color. The formula leaves a clean slate with clarifying acids— a BHA (salicylic acid) and an AHA (malic acid)—to clear away any build up on the scalp, and strengthens with omega-9 (oleic acid) to support healthier waves from root-to-tip. It also includes the brand’s Metal Purifier technology to detox hard water buildup and harmful impurities (metal deposits, pollution, and grime) contributing to dull and damaged hair. And when paired with its matching conditioner, this moisturizing shampoo and conditioner duo leaves color-treated waves softer and more manageable.

    Tester feedback from commerce editor Sarah Han

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    “I'm always on the lookout for shampoos and conditioners that intensely hydrate my dry, brittle, and partially color-treated hair without stripping too much of said color—emphasis on the last part! So I was pleasantly surprised when my pale pink stayed intact. (I have a color-depositing shampoo that I use occasionally, but I'm trying to rely on it less.) This Wella duo initially stood out because of its AHAs, which I suspected would be a great clarifying treatment for my scalp, especially as someone who sometimes only washes her hair once a week. (Time flies, ok!) The conditioner also has AHAs, which help repair strands from within the shaft. My hair feels extra soft—softer than it does with other shampoos and conditioners, or even hair masks, I swear—the next morning, so consider me impressed. Thank you, AHAs!” —Sarah Han, commerce editor

    More to know

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    • Key ingredients: malic acid, citric acid, salicylic acid, glycerin, oleic acid, squalane
    • Sulfate-free: no
    • Best for: damaged or color-treated wavy hair

    Best Drugstore: Eva NYC Take Care Healthy Hair Shampoo

    Eva NYC Take Care Healthy Hair Shampoo light green bottle of shampoo on light gray backgroundSave to wishlistSave to wishlist

    Eva NYC

    Take Care Healthy Hair Shampoo

    $14

    Ulta Beauty

    Why we love it: If you’re a diehard daily hair-washer (we exist!), good news: Eva NYC’s Take Care Healthy Hair Shampoo is gentle enough for everyday use. Designed for limp, oily, and dull hair, the color-safe formula washes away stubborn dirt and grime—common culprits of flat waves—while a lineup of amino acids work to soften and strengthen strands. The formula is also packed with moisture-binding ingredients, including sodium lactate, PCA, and sodium PCA, alongside conditioning polymers that boost shine, softness, and manageability. Dryness? Never heard of her.

    Tester feedback from commerce market editor Sarah Hoffmann

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    "With curly hair, it's often recommended to wash your hair less frequently to preserve moisture and prevent drying out your already fragile strands. I try my best to adhere to an every two- or three-day schedule, but when life calls for frequent washing, I reach for Eva NYC's Take Care Healthy Hair Shampoo. It's a no-frills formula in the best way—just a solid, gentle cleanse. My hair is pretty fine and easily weighed down, so I can't use hydrating or bonding formulas too often, and clarifying shampoos are too harsh for everyday use. This shampoo is an effective cleanser and adds a touch of softness and shine, a true Goldilocks product." —Sarah Hoffmann, commerce market editor

    More to know

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    • Key ingredients: amino acids, lactic acid, sodium PCA
    • Sulfate-free: yes
    • Best for: wavy hair prone to oiliness and damage

    Frequently Asked Questions

    What ingredients should people look for in a shampoo for wavy hair?

    Wavy hair might not seem hard to care for, but it comes with its challenges: frizz, dryness, and lack of definition. Light hydrators and gentle cleansers are important components to consider in a shampoo for wavy hair because they gently cleanse and moisturize without weighing waves down. Humectants (glycerin, hyaluronic acid), ceramides, amino acids, proteins, and conditioning ingredients are universally supportive for all wave types, “helping waves feel soft (not crunchy) and also look more polished without sacrificing movement or volume,” says Nashville-based hairstylist Eric Marshall.

    Also, choose ingredients based on your wave type. “Someone with very fine, loose waves probably doesn’t need the same rich formula as someone with thick, coarse waves,” notes Chase. Finer waves will want to opt for lightweight hydrators over rich formulas that can flatten waves. “If it’s coarse or dry, look for more nourishing oils and conditioning ingredients,” says Hong.

    How can I hydrate wavy hair?

    Our experts all agree: The goal for all wavy hair is to hydrate without the weight, starting with your shampoo. As you cleanse, focus on the scalp over the lengths, and apply conditioners from the mid-length down where it matters most for wavy hair. Post-shower, Hong emphasizes that “less is more” for styling products. Specifically, Marshall recommends a styling product “that can help with elasticity, control, and hydrate at the same time,” such as curl creams, hair oils, and texturizing sprays. Simply put: An effective wavy hair routine is equal parts hydrating, defining, and strengthening for bouncier waves.

    Plus, don’t be afraid to wash your hair more frequently: According to Chase, “You don’t need to stretch out wash days just because you have textured hair.” Washing your hair when waves need it the most encourages a healthy scalp and wave pattern.

    Meet the experts

    • Joseph Chase is a hairstylist based in Los Angeles.
    • Michelle Hong is a hairstylist and the founder and creative director of NYC The Team in New York City.
    • Rikke Gajda is a hairstylist based in Los Angeles.
    • Eric Marshall Wright is a hairstylist and owner of Eric Marshall Salon in Nashville.
    • Tiffanie Richards is a master colorist at Louise O’Conner 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 shampoos for wavy hair, we enlisted the help of multiple editors, writers, contributors, and hairstylists to find formulas that effectively cleanse and hydrate without the buildup. 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.

  • Hairstylist Frédéric Fekkai Is Being Sued by Epstein Survivors for Allegedly Enabling Gender-Motivated Violence

    Hairstylist Frédéric Fekkai Is Being Sued by Epstein Survivors for Allegedly Enabling Gender-Motivated Violence

    Hairstylist Frederic Fekkai speaking at a podium at an event.Save StorySave this storySave StorySave this story

    Another beauty founder has been embroiled in the aftermath of Jeffrey Epstein’s decades-long abuses. Frédéric Fekkai, the hairstylist, salon owner, brand founder and executive, is being sued for damages under the Gender-Motivated Violence Act, a New York City-specific statute that permits survivors to file civil suits against both perpetrators and those who enabled them.

    The lawsuit, published by CourthouseNews, was brought forth by Kersti Ferguson, Audra Christiansen, and five additional anonymous survivors. Summons to the suit’s defendants, which are Fekkai, business entity Frédéric Fekkai & Co, L.L.C., and Fekkai associate Patrick Coombs, went out Tuesday—just a day after Republican congressman Thomas Massie described Fekkai as an Epstein “co-conspirator” who warranted investigation and prosecution.

    The suit alleges that the defendants “enabled Epstein’s acts of gender-motivated violence” by “acting as the fundamental ‘perks machine’ on behalf of Epstein; furnishing Epstein with a salon to manipulate, control and coerce Plaintiffs; providing Epstein with a business location for operating the sex trafficking ring that permitted him to commit acts of gender-motivated violence against Plaintiffs.” One of Fekkai’s salons was in the Henri Bendel department store in New York City, which was owned by known Epstein associate Les Wexner until 2019.

    “Epstein used Fekkai, his employees and his entities to intimidate and control over his victims,” the complaint reads. “Fekkai played a pivotal role in Epstein’s grooming schemes by routinely providing salon services to women at Epstein’s instruction,” it continues, describing that “Epstein would direct Fekkai to bleach victims blond and groomed them like dolls into Epstein’s and other’s liking.” The complaint references “3,118 documents and emails related to Fekkai’s salon which was the epicenter for victim grooming.”

    “These allegations are false. Mr. Fekkai has done nothing wrong,” Mark Herr, Fekkai’s spokesperson, says to Allure. “He has no idea whether any Epstein victim was among the tens of thousands of people whose hair was cut every year by the hundreds of Fekkai salon employees.”

    It’s not the first time a beauty founder has been caught in the crosshairs of an Epstein-related investigation. Earlier this year, Peter Thomas Roth faced many a call for boycotts after the first tranches of released files showed his relationship with Epstein and accomplice Ghislaine Maxwell. Nothing in the files alleged that Roth partook in criminal conduct, although they did detail Roth educating various girls at Epstein’s house in skin-care products and routines, and sending Epstein 13 bags of PTR products. At the time, Roth said Epstein was a teacher of his at the Dalton School in New York City in the ’70s. They had stayed in touch in the decades that followed, and Roth said he was “horrified by the crimes he committed and the lasting impact they have had on his victims, and I deeply regret maintaining any association with him after leaving the Dalton School.”

    That wasn’t enough to stop the calls for a boycott of the brand. Whether or not that will happen with Fekkai’s eponymous hair range or the salon he still operates in New York City, remains to be seen. Fekkai’s myriad mentions in the Epstein files didn’t imply any criminal behavior and he has not been formally charged with any crime, although the lawsuit against him does accuse him of enabling it. However, his former assistant, Sarah Kellen, testified in May before the House Oversight Committee that Fekkai, alongside fashion photographer Patrick Demarchelier, sexually abused her. That testimony was a part of the committee’s review of the government’s handling of the Epstein cases. Fekkai refuted the claims at the time via Herr, who told WWD, “Mr. Fekkai never abused anyone. He never participated in any illegal behavior. He knew nothing about Epstein’s repugnant depravity or trafficking. He did nothing wrong.”

    Legal representation for the plaintiffs did not respond to Allure’s request for comment Thursday.

  • Your Guide to the Perfumes That Last All Day and Night

    Your Guide to the Perfumes That Last All Day and Night

    A photo collage of Allure editors holding their favorite longlasting perfumes alongside fragrance product silos on a...Collage: Jemeria Davison; Source images: Courtesy of brands and editorsSave StorySave this storySave StorySave this story

    Ever spritz a fragrance only for it to disappear before lunch? The best long-lasting perfumes won’t quit on you. These days, we require more from our beauty products: foundations that stay in place for 12-plus hours, lipstick that refuses to budge through meals, setting sprays to lock everything in from sunrise to dusk. And the same goes for perfume. When you apply fragrance, you want it to last—to trail behind you, enchant passersby, and linger from the morning spritz to your post-work wind-down. Enter these long-lasting perfumes, which promise to stick around for whatever you’ve got going on.

    Our Top Long-Lasting Perfumes

    • Best Long-Lasting Bright Floral: Parfums de Marly Delina Eau de Parfum, $250
    • Best Long-Lasting Moody Floral: Ex Nihilo Lust in Paradise Extrait de Parfum, $345
    • Best Long-Lasting Vanilla: Guerlain Vanille Planifolia Extrait 21, $660
    • Best Long-Lasting Musk: Byredo Mojave Ghost Absolue, $290
    • Best Long-Lasting Citrus: La Collection Privée Christian Dior Paradise Eau de Parfum, $350
    • Best Long-Lasting Spicy: Matiere Premiere Crystal Saffron Extrait, $320

    Not every fragrance is a long-lasting perfume, of course. Some scents, like citrus fragrances or light florals, tend to dissipate faster than fragrances built around deeper notes like oud, sandalwood, and amber. The concentration of perfume oils plays a role too: Products labeled parfum, extrait, and absolue will typically last longer due to higher concentrations than those found in body mists, colognes, and eau de toilettes formulas. The more oil, the longer the scent lasts sans touch-ups. Because of this potency, extrait and absolue fragrances tend to be more expensive than their EDT and EDP counterparts. (The sticker shock is real.)

    Frequently Asked QuestionsAccordionItemContainerButtonLargeChevron

    • What makes a perfume long-lasting?
    • What are the best tips to make fragrances last longer?
    • Meet the experts
    • Our staff and testers

    Aside from the fragrance itself, it’s key to make sure your skin is adequately moisturized; some fragrance obsessives like to apply a layer of thick, unscented body lotion or Vaseline to help “lock in” the scent, or use the accompanying fragranced body wash and body lotion for a layered effect. Hair mists have also become popular as a way to add additional fragrance to your top-to-toe beauty routine. Looking for a scent that will linger long past your initial application? Check out some of our faves for those marathon days and nights.

    Best Long-Lasting Bright Floral: Parfums de Marly Delina Eau de Parfum

    Parfums de Marly Delina in branded component on a light gray backgroundSave to wishlistSave to wishlist

    Parfums de Marly

    Delina Eau de Parfum

    $410

    Amazon (2.5 Fl Oz)

    $250

    Nordstrom (1 Oz)

    $250

    Bluemercury (1 Oz)

    Allure managing editor Alessandra Foresto applying the Parfums de Marly Delina Eau de Parfum

    Alessandra Foresto

    Why we love it: Perfume lovers have been obsessed with Delina for a few years now, us included; it won a Best of Beauty Award in 2024, after all. Don’t let the pale pink bottle fool you—Delina makes a big, bold floral statement with every spritz. Rose, lily of the valley, and peony notes get a lift from bright lychee and rhubarb for that instant “pow” factor, which sparkles on skin for hours. It’s simply enchanting, and it stays that way from a.m. to p.m.

    Tester feedback from managing editor Alessandra Foresto

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    “This is my first Parfums de Marly fragrance and I'm in love! The fruity and floral mix of lychee, rhubarb, rose, and vetiver makes for a slightly powdery scent that's so delicate but also feels complex and elegant. Most of all, I love that the scent lingers all day. So many fragrances evaporate quickly, and by the time I get to the office, I feel like I need another spritz, but I can still smell this perfume on my work clothes at the end of the day.” —Alessandra Foresto, managing editor

    More to know

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    • Key notes: rose, lily of the valley, peony, lychee, rhubarb, bergamot, cashmere wood
    • Sizes: 1 oz, 2.5 oz

    Best Long-Lasting Moody Floral: Ex Nihilo Lust in Paradise Extrait de Parfum

    Ex Nihilo Lust in Paradise Extrait de Parfum in branded component on a light gray backgroundSave to wishlistSave to wishlist

    Ex Nihilo

    Lust in Paradise Extrait de Parfum

    $345

    Nordstrom

    Allure senior staff writer Elizabeth Gulino applying the Ex Nihilo Lust in Paradise Extrait de Parfum

    Elizabeth Gulino

    Why we love it: Nothing says date night like a scent called Lust in Paradise. The original fragrance is a lovely, fresh blend of pink pepper, lychee, and peony, and the extrait takes that flirtatious DNA and ups the ante, deepening the sweet notes and adding luscious jasmine for a more romantic sillage—the kind that lingers and trails behind you, enchanting everyone in your wake.

    Tester feedback from senior staff writer Elizabeth Gulino

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    “Ex Nihilo's new Lust in Paradise Extrait has become a recent obsession of mine. It's a turned-up version of the original Lust in Paradise with added notes of jasmine and blackcurrant that give it a rich dry-down. It's been my go-to going-out scent, but I also love to spritz it in the morning when I know I have a long day ahead of me. To be honest, I'll have to tone down how often I've been wearing it—I'm dreading finishing my bottle!” —Elizabeth Gulino, senior staff writer

    More to know

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    • Key notes: rose, lily of the valley, peony, lychee, rhubarb, bergamot, cashmere wood
    • Sizes: 1 oz, 2.5 oz

    Best Long-Lasting Vanilla: Guerlain Vanille Planifolia Extrait 21

    Guerlain Vanille Planifolia Extrait 21in branded component on a light gray backgroundSave to wishlistSave to wishlist

    Guerlain

    Vanille Planifolia Extrait 21

    $660

    Guerlain

    Allure social media director Kassidy Silva applying the Guerlain Vanille Planifolia Extrait 21

    Kassidy Silva

    Why we love it: You may have seen this luxurious bottle on PerfumeTok, because it’s become something of an obsession for vanilla lovers. And it is definitely a special scent, made with a unique vanilla that must be soaked for 21 days to achieve the exact intensity and complexity that Guerlain requires for such a fabulously fancy extrait. It is then paired with woody, spicy notes to enhance the sweetness of vanilla and anchor it on the skin as the scent develops. Vanille Planifolia Extrait 21 isn’t cheap—a bottle rings up over $600—but if you’re a true vanilla devotee who can’t get enough of the multifaceted fragrance note, this may just be your dream fragrance, and one that you can revel in for hours with just a spritz or two.

    Tester feedback from social media director Kassidy Silva

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    “Guerlain's Vanille Planifolia Extrait 21 is a vanilla fragrance like no other. The musky gourmand is a sexy, mysterious confection that turns heads no matter what room you're in. But the unique blend isn't even the most standout element; it's wear time. Fragrances typically don't last long on my skin; I usually get between 4 and 5 hours before needing to reapply, but I get at least 12 hours with this scent. I'll apply two spritzes to my wrist that I dab on my neck and a few to my clothes and hair, which last all day. I'll catch a whiff from my wrist every so often, and it adds a little bounce in my step. Not to mention, the bottle's intricate craftsmanship makes it a standout in any perfume cabinet. The woven golden rope on the bottle's neck and the brand's signature G and bees around the bottle are my favorites. Each bottle is fully customizable, moving it into heirloom status in my eyes. It's certainly a splurge, but if it's in your budget and you love compliments, this one is for you.” —Kassidy Silva, social media director

    More to know

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    • Key notes: vanilla, amber, spices, musk
    • Sizes: 1.7 oz

    Best Long-Lasting Musk: Byredo Mojave Ghost Absolu

    Byredo Mojave Ghost Absolu in branded component on a light gray backgroundSave to wishlistSave to wishlist

    Byredo

    Mojave Ghost Absolu

    $290

    Nordstrom

    $290

    Bluemercury

    Allure content manager Hannah Brower applying the Byredo Mojave Ghost Absolu

    Hannah Brower

    Why we love it: Byredo, the massively popular niche fragrance line now sold all over the world, has legions of fans who are obsessed with its unique—but often quite lightweight—fragrances. That’s why they introduced Absolu versions of some of their bestsellers, including this woody, musky floral scent with notes of ambrette, pear, magnolia, sandalwood, vetiver, and musk. Mojave Ghost was inspired by the ghost flower, which grows in the sweltering heat of the Mojave Desert, but rest assured this more potent version of the original scent won’t ghost you.

    Tester feedback from content manager Hannah Brower

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    “I love Mojave Ghost—it’s my favorite musky, clean skin scent. But you have to go the Absolue route. The difference in lasting power is enough to make the price increase worth it. It lasts so long, I’ve smelled it on my clothes even after washing them and after going swimming. And I’d say that passes the long-lasting test!.” —Hannah Brower, content manager

    More to know

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    • Key notes: ambrette, pear, magnolia, sandalwood, musk
    • Sizes: 1.7 oz, 3.4 oz

    Best Long-Lasting Citrus: La Collection Privée Christian Dior Paradise Eau de Parfum

    La Collection Privée Christian Dior Paradise Eau de Parfum on a light gray backgroundSave to wishlistSave to wishlist

    Dior

    La Collection Privée Christian Dior Paradise Eau de Parfum

    $350

    Dior

    Allure senior commerce director Shanna Shipin applying the La Collection Privée Christian Dior Paradise Eau de Parfum

    Shanna Shipin

    Why we love it: Part citrus, part gourmand, this golden-hour scent was inspired by Monsieur Christian Dior's vacation home, which was surrounded by blooming almond trees. (Imagine!) The transportive scent kicks off with a squeeze of citrusy notes, including mandarin and bergamot, which partner beautifully with the almond and vanilla heart. (There's a reason almond desserts often feature a pop of citrus.) If you're not quite ready to say goodbye to summer scenting, Paradise will keep your feet firmly planted in the sunny season.

    Tester feedback from senior commerce director Shanna Shipin

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    “Citrus runs in my blood—at least I like to think so (my mom ate lemons and oranges daily when she was pregnant with me, and I came out with an insatiable appetite for all things citrus)—so this feels a bit like a twin flame fragrance for me. It comes on strong with all sorts of citrus notes (mandarin, lime, bergamot), then you get the warmth from almond and maybe some vanilla. This fragrance also has some notable woody threads, which give it an air of mystery rather than a typical gourmand scent, and make it a good unisex option. The combination is equal parts sweet and smooth, like a luxurious and layered summertime cocktail that you'd feel very cool ordering at the bar. I'm so in love with this fragrance that it's one I want to hoard even from myself! Good thing: It lasts so incredibly long on my skin—I'm talking dawn to dusk—which helps justify the price tag.” —Shanna Shipin, senior commerce director

    More to know

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    • Key notes: mandarin, orange, lime, bitter almond, tonka bean, woody notes
    • Sizes: 1.7 oz, 3.4 oz. 6.8 oz

    Best Long-Lasting Chypre: Le Labo Ylang 49 Eau de Parfum

    Le Labo Ylang 49 Eau de Parfum in branded component on a light gray backgroundSave to wishlistSave to wishlist

    Le Labo

    Ylang 49 Eau de Parfum

    $250

    Nordstrom

    Allure contributor Kara Nesvig applying the Le Labo Ylang 49 Eau de Parfum

    Kara Nesvig

    Why we love it: A chypre scent, which is generally defined as a fragrance that blends citrusy top notes, rose, and a mossy base, has an old-fashioned cool factor that makes it stand out in a sea of gourmands and florals. Chypres tend to be longer-lasting than some of their fragranced peers, too, thanks to bold base notes like patchouli and oakmoss. Ylang 49, an underrated scent from Le Labo, definitely has staying power, blending heady ylang ylang and Tahitian gardenia with a wallop of patchouli and oakmoss. It’s not a fragrance for the faint of heart, which is what makes it so much fun to wear.

    Tester feedback from contributor Kara Nesvig

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    This has been one of my signature scents for nearly 10 years, and man does it linger! One spritz will radiate for hours on skin or clothing and you will not get noseblind to it—in a good way, because this is a rich, intoxicating floral chypre with a bit of tropical heat thanks to the titular ylang ylang. When I spray it in the a.m., I can still smell it on my skin come evening. If I had to cull my giant perfume collection down to just a few bottles, this would absolutely make the cut; I consider it a scent I can’t live without. —Kara Nesvig, contributor

    More to know

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    • Key notes: ylang ylang, Tahitian gardenia, patchouli, sandalwood, oakmoss
    • Sizes: 0.5 oz, 1.7 oz, 3.4 oz, 16.9 oz

    More long-lasting scents we love

    Best Long-Lasting Spicy: Matiere Premiere Crystal Saffron Extrait

    Matiere Premiere Crystal Saffron Extrait in branded component on a light gray backgroundSave to wishlistSave to wishlist

    Matiere Premiere

    Crystal Saffron Extrait

    $320

    Nordstrom

    Why we love it: Matiere Premiere, a fragrance house created by noted perfumer Aurélien Guichard—the nose behind scents for Bond No. 9, Burberry, Gucci, and Narciso Rodriguez, among many others—is all about highlighting the beauty of natural fragrance materials and amplifying their power. (Ask anyone who has worn MP's Vanilla Powder, which basically never fades.) The main line fragrances are all pretty potent, but the extraits take that to the next level. Crystal Saffron is built around a Greek saffron note—thought to be some of the best in the world—paired with myrrh, ambroxan, and incense for a dramatically spicy scent profile. Don’t overdo it with this one—just a tiny spritz will suffice; it’s that strong.

    More to know

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    • Key notes: saffron, myrrh, incense
    • Sizes: 1.7 oz, 3.4 oz

    Best Long-Lasting Fruity: Amouage Hibiscus Love Eau de Parfum

    Amouage Hibiscus Love Eau de Parfum in branded component on a light gray backgroundSave to wishlistSave to wishlist

    Amouage

    Hibiscus Love Eau de Parfum

    $395

    Nordstrom

    $395

    Revolve

    Why we love it: Amouage scents are some of the most long-lasting fragrances ever. The house was founded to honor Middle Eastern fragrance traditions with scents often featuring popular notes of myrrh, incense, and oud. Hibiscus Love is a bit of a departure for the house, opening with bright, juicy passionfruit, hibiscus, and gourmand notes for a unique concoction with Amouage’s signature high-scent concentration. Hibiscus Love comes in an eye-catching coral-pink bottle, and the scent itself is vivacious and flirtatious—main character energy, so to speak.

    More to know

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    • Key notes: caramel, passionfruit, hibiscus, frankincense, sandalwood, vanilla
    • Sizes: 3.4 oz

    Best Long-Lasting Gourmand: Maison Francis Kurkdijan Baccarat Rouge 540 Extrait

    Maison Francis Kurkdijan Baccarat 540 Extrait de Parfum in branded component on a light gray backgroundSave to wishlistSave to wishlist

    Maison Francis Kurkdjian

    Baccarat 540 Extrait de Parfum

    $495

    Nordstrom

    Why we love it: Love it or hate it, you can’t deny that Baccarat Rouge 540 is one of the defining scents of the 2020s. After the original eau de parfum went viral due to its unique blend of fluffy, almost salty saffron, jasmine, and light, airy woods and took over our fragrance palates—not to mention causing a fleet of copycats in the process— the house launched a stronger, longer-lasting extrait formula based on its signature scent profile, so you get more longevity and sillage from the cashmere-plush fragrance you love.

    More to know

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    • Key notes: cashmaran wood, saffron, jasmine, ethyl maltol, bitter almond
    • Sizes: 1.2 oz, 2.4 oz, 6.8 oz

    Best Long-Lasting Tuberose: Van Cleef & Arpels Fleur de Nuit Eau de Parfum

    Van Cleef & Arpels Fleur de Nuit Eau de Parfum in branded component on a light gray backgroundSave to wishlistSave to wishlist

    Van Cleef & Arpels

    Fleur de Nuit Eau de Parfum

    $315

    Bloomingdale’s

    Why we love it: Did you know the famous luxury jewelry house Van Cleef & Arpels makes fragrance? Now you do, and you should definitely check them out, especially if you like bolder, more opulent fragrances. Fleur de Nuit is a white floral fragrance—tuberose, to be exact—that practically melts into the skin with a velvety, come-hither sensuality. Though tuberose as a fragrance note is generally more robust than other florals, it’s even more potent paired with a backbone of sandalwood, vanilla wood, and musk notes.

    Tester feedback from Nesvig

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    “I tend to prefer a long-lasting perfume; I’m definitely more team parfum and extrait than body mist and eau de cologne. Thus, this sexy, smoldering, old Hollywood-style take on the notoriously attention-grabbing tuberose was right up my alley. When I spray it, I imagine I’m slipping into a gorgeous ‘30s slip dress, pulling a feather boa around my shoulders, and heading out for the night, and I know my fragrance will be right there with me for every champagne sip.” —Kara Nesvig, contributor

    More to know

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    • Key notes: petitgrain, tuberose, sandalwood, musk
    • Sizes: 2.5 oz

    Best Long-Lasting Earthy: Bvlgari Le Gemme Tygar Extrait de Parfum

    Bvlgari Le Gemme Tygar Extrait de Parfum in branded component on a light gray backgroundSave to wishlistSave to wishlist

    Bvlgari

    Le Gemme Tygar Extrait de Parfum

    $425

    Nordstrom

    Why we love it: Firstly, let’s talk about the bottle: gorgeous, a sculptural black matte bottle with a tiger’s-eye cap. (Bvlgari is a jewelry house, after all, so it tracks that their bottles would be objets d’art.) And the scent inside is equally stunning: a spicy, earthy mix of crisp grapefruit, warm amber, and woods that smells exactly how a tiger's eye looks: multifaceted, spellbinding, and totally one of a kind. Le Gemme Tygar is equal parts fresh and rich, and you’ll have a lot of fun experiencing its uniqueness as it develops throughout the day.

    More to know

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    • Key notes: grapefruit, amber, ginger, patchouli, vetiver
    • Sizes: 2 oz, 4.2 oz

    Best Long-Lasting Patchouli: Frederic Malle Portrait of a Lady

    Frederic Malle Portrait of a Lady in branded component on a light gray backgroundSave to wishlistSave to wishlist

    Frédéric Malle

    Portrait of a Lady

    $295

    Nordstrom

    Why we love it: A bombastic bombshell of a rose fragrance, Portrait of a Lady feels more like Madonna than Marilyn Monroe, with bossy, bold cinnamon and incense atop a lush base of patchouli and sandalwood. One spritz hangs out for hours, with the dry, woody rose top notes fading into that intoxicatingly spicy heart. This is the kind of scent you wear when you want to make a big impression, and you’ll be smelling it in your hair and on your clothes for days. Madonna actually wears this, so the comparison is an apt one!

    More to know

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    • Key notes: rose, red fruits, incense, patchouli, sandalwood
    • Sizes: 0.7 oz, 1.7 oz, 3.4 oz

    Best Long-Lasting Rose: Maison Crivelli Musc Nurãsana Extrait de Parfum

    Maison Crivelli Musc Nurãsana Extrait de Parfum in branded component on a light gray backgroundSave to wishlistSave to wishlist

    Maison Crivelli

    Musc Nurãsana Extrait de Parfum

    $560

    Nordstrom

    Why we love it: If you love a skin scent or musk fragrance, you know that many of them can be slightly less tenacious than their peers due to the delicate nature of those skin-like musk notes. That’s not the case when it comes to Maison Crivelli’s Musk Nurãsana, which is a powerful extrait formula (the brand is already well-known for its long-lasting scents) that smells like warm skin, rumpled bedsheets, and an early morning after a late night.

    More to know

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    • Key notes: musk, rose, incense, cardamom, bergamot
    • Sizes: 0.17 oz, 1.7 oz, 3.4 oz

    Best Long-Lasting Sweet: Thierry Mugler Angel Eau de Parfum

    Thierry Mugler Angel Eau de Parfum in branded component on a light gray backgroundSave to wishlistSave to wishlist

    Thierry Mugler

    Angel Eau de Parfum

    $150

    Amazon (1.6 Oz)

    $195

    Nordstrom (3.3 Fl Oz)

    $150

    Ulta Beauty (1.7 Oz)

    Why we love it: One of the most iconic scents of all time, Thierry Mugler’s Angel is also one of the longest-lasting scents of all time. If you hate it, you’ll know what we mean, and if you love it, you’ll get it too. Launched in 1992, Angel is a sticky-sweet concoction featuring cotton candy, red berries, patchouli, and chocolate, among many, many other delicious notes, and it absolutely paved the way for today’s gourmand obsession with its unconventional mix of ingredients, including that wallop of patchouli at the base. Now considered one of the best-selling fragrances of all time with sillage to match its long-running popularity, Angel is loud, bold, striking, and unforgettable, and even if you don’t typically like sweet fragrances, you may just find yourself captivated by this absolute legend.

    More to know

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    • Key notes: bergamot, red fruits, patchouli
    • Sizes: 0.33 oz, 1.7 oz, 3.33 oz

    Frequently Asked Questions

    What makes a perfume long-lasting?

    According to Darryl Do, a senior perfumer at Delbia Do based in New York City, the higher the concentration of fragrance oil is directly correlated to its longevity. Eau de toilettes typically fall in the 7% to 12% range, eau de parfums land around 15% to 20%, and concentrates (also known as extraits) can reach 22 to 30%. Look for fragrances labeled parfum, intense, or elixir, West suggests, if you’re looking for a scent that lasts all day.

    The notes of the perfume also make a big difference. Autumne West, Nordstrom’s national beauty director based in Seattle, explains that fragrances with deeper notes like musk, tobacco, and cardamom, create a lasting impression as the fragrance dries down throughout the day. “Citrus-forward notes can be beautiful and refreshing upon first spray, but they fade quicker,” she says. That’s why many of the citrus scents on this list are anchored with deeper notes, so they’ll linger.

    What are the best tips to make fragrances last longer?

    One of West’s favorite tips is to apply your fragrance to freshly moisturized skin because hydrated skin holds onto scent much longer. “Layering also makes a big difference,” she says. “If a fragrance has a coordinating body lotion, oil, or shower gel, applying that first helps create a base so the perfume lasts longer and wears more evenly.”

    Meet the experts

    • Darryl Do is a senior perfumer at Delbia Do based in New York City.
    • Autumne West is Nordstrom’s national beauty director based in Seattle.

    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.

  • 12 Best The Ordinary Products for an Affordable Beauty Routine

    12 Best The Ordinary Products for an Affordable Beauty Routine

    Image contains Allure commerce editorial assistant Hailey Roy with The Ordinary Rice Lipids  Ectoin Microemulsion...Collage: Jemeria Davison; Source images: Courtesy of brandsSave StorySave this storySave StorySave this story

    Few brands have made ingredient lists feel as approachable as The Ordinary. The best Ordinary products skip the smoke and mirrors in favor of names that showcase their active ingredients—Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1%, Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5, and Retinal 0.2 Emulsion—so there’s little second-guessing about what you’re applying. That plainspoken transparency is central to its parent company, Deciem (also aptly called “The Abnormal Beauty Company”), which built The Ordinary around understated packaging, familiar ingredients placed front and center, and formulas that often cost no more than lunch.

    Our Top The Ordinary Products

    • HA-ppy Skin: Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5, $10
    • Set the Tone: Glycolic Acid 7% Exfoliating Toner, $14
    • Smooth Talker: PHA 5% Exfoliating Lip Serum, $9
    • Weightless Wonder: Serum Foundation, $8
    • Pore Power Pair: Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1% Serum, $6
    • One Step Closer to Smooth: Retinal 0.2 Emulsion, $15

    Since launching 10 years ago, The Ordinary has inspired waitlists, amassed devoted fans, and earned multiple Allure Best of Beauty Awards, proving that inexpensive beauty products don’t have to feel like a compromise. Though skin care remains its bread and butter, the lineup has expanded to include scalp and hair treatments, along with makeup—including its recently revived Serum Foundation. Of course, a catalog filled with percentages, peptides, acids, suspensions, and microemulsions can still require a bit of decoding. Ahead, we rounded up the brand’s greatest hits—what they actually do, how to use them, and which ones deserve real estate in your routine.

    Frequently Asked QuestionsAccordionItemContainerButtonLargeChevron

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

    HA-ppy Skin: Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5

    The Ordinary Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5 in white branded dropper component on a light gray backgroundSave to wishlistSave to wishlist

    The Ordinary

    Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5

    $10

    Amazon

    $10

    Nordstrom

    $10

    Ulta Beauty

    Allure senior staff writer Elizabeth Gulino applying The Ordinary Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5

    Elizabeth Gulino

    Why we love it: Long before TV commercials were teaching us how to pronounce “hyaluronic,” The Ordinary’s Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5 was part of the brand’s original 2016 lineup. What separates it from many basic HA serums is its 2% concentration of five forms of hyaluronic acid, including hydrolyzed hyaluronic acid and sodium hyaluronate crosspolymer, which work across multiple levels of the skin’s surface to draw in water, soften fine lines, and give skin a plumper appearance. Panthenol, a.k.a. pro-vitamin B5, supports moisture retention, while phospholipids sgand sphingolipids reinforce the skin barrier. Glycerin supplies another dose of humectant hydration, and red algae extract helps condition skin.

    Tester feedback from senior staff writer Elizabeth Gulino

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    “I’ve been using The Ordinary’s reformulated Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5 serum (with ceramides) for years and don’t plan on stopping. I first picked it up because of its approachable price point, but I’ve become a repeat customer thanks to the product doing its job by keeping my skin soft and hydrated. I use it year-round, and it layers wonderfully under moisturizer.” —Elizabeth Gulino, senior staff writer

    More to know

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    • Key ingredients: hyaluronic acid, vitamin B5, ceramides, phospholipids, sphingolipids, glycerin, red algae extract
    • Who it's for: people with oily or combination skin who want hydration without the weight
    • Fragrance-free: yes

    Set the Tone: Glycolic Acid 7% Exfoliating Toner

    The Ordinary Glycolic Acid 7% Exfoliating Toner in branded component on a light gray backgroundSave to wishlistSave to wishlist

    The Ordinary

    Glycolic Acid 7% Exfoliating Toner

    $14

    Amazon

    $14

    Nordstrom

    $14

    Sephora

    Allure senior commerce director Shanna Shipin applying The Ordinary Glycolic Acid 7% Exfoliating Toner

    Shanna Shipin

    Why we love it: The Ordinary’s Glycolic Acid 7% Exfoliating Toner lets a single swipe do much of the heavy lifting: Its namesake alpha hydroxy acid loosens dead surface cells to gradually smooth rough texture, brighten dullness, and make uneven tone look more uniform. It can also moonlight as a scalp treatment. “Leaving it on allows the glycolic acid to break down excess scale and absorb excess oils,” says Maya Thosani, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in Scottsdale, Arizona, who credits the bottle’s precise nozzle for making it especially easy to apply.

    To temper potential irritation, the formula pairs the glycolic acid with aloe and a Tasmanian pepperberry derivative containing polygodial, a plant compound with soothing, anti-inflammatory properties—while antioxidant-rich ginseng provides additional skin-soothing benefits. Although it can be used once daily, glycolic-acid newcomers and sensitive skin types may want to start with two or three evenings a week—whether applying it to the face, scalp, or rough patches below the neck—and work their way up.

    Tester feedback from senior commerce director Shanna Shipin

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    “This product is like a pharmacy: It fixes everything. I use this to soften the rough skin on my elbows, heal the cracks along the sides of my feet and heels, and tamp down the closed comedones that wreak havoc on my forehead (particularly after I got bangs). It's also worked wonders in lightening my underarms, which has been an uphill battle. I have perpetual dermatitis and eczema, so I love that it's a gentle but effective solution that I haven't managed to overdo—despite being someone who doesn't have a great track record with chemical exfoliants. When I'm especially dry—mostly on my face (it's not the case elsewhere on my body)—it does sting just a bit, but that goes away quickly and hopefully gives way to freshly regenerated skin cells underneath!” —Shanna Shipin, senior commerce director

    More to know

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    • Key ingredients: 7% glycolic acid, aloe, panax ginseng root extract, Tasmanian pepperberry
    • Who it's for: people with rough, uneven skin
    • Fragrance-free: yes

    Smooth Talker: PHA 5% Exfoliating Lip Serum

    Clear bottle of The Ordinary PHA 5% Exfoliating Lip Serum with white cap on light gray backgroundSave to wishlistSave to wishlist

    The Ordinary

    PHA 5% Exfoliating Lip Serum

    $8

    Amazon

    $9

    Ulta Beauty

    $9

    Sephora

    Allure commerce editor Sarah Han applying The Ordinary PHA 5% Exfoliating Lip Serum

    Sarah Han

    Why we love it: Physical lip scrubs may be satisfying, but repeatedly sloughing away flakes isn’t always the gentlest strategy. The Ordinary’s PHA 5% Exfoliating Lip Serum takes a less gritty route, using 5% gluconolactone—a polyhydroxy acid with relatively large molecules that work primarily at the surface, keeping it especially gentle—to loosen dead skin without manual scrubbing. A 1.5% blend of citric, malic, and tartaric acids provides additional smoothing, while a glycerin base draws in moisture and ectoin supports the delicate lip barrier. Antioxidant-rich black-carrot extract gives the serum its vibrant pink-to-peach tint, but the color immediately disappears on contact, so don’t expect it to double as a lip stain.

    Tester feedback from commerce editor Sarah Han

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    “My lips are perpetually dry and textured, and it's a big pet peeve of mine. When I forget to apply a lip mask before bed (which is very often, sigh), I immediately apply a dot of this exfoliating serum all over my lips, and bam, an instantly smooth pout. (Well, I do wait a few minutes for it to fully dry down—it's a bit tacky at first—before applying any actual lip color.) My only qualm? I wish it looked as pink as it does online, but alas, it's nowhere near that hue IRL.” —Sarah Han, commerce editor

    More to know

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    • Key ingredients: 5% gluconolactone, 1.5% blend of citric, malic, and tartaric acids, glycerin, black-carrot extract
    • Who it’s for: people with rough or dry lips
    • Fragrance-free: yes

    Weightless Wonder: Serum Foundation

    Bottle of The Ordinary Serum Foundation with black cap on light gray backgroundSave to wishlistSave to wishlist

    The Ordinary

    Serum Foundation

    $8

    The Ordinary

    Allure contributing commerce writer Christa Joanna Lee applying The Ordinary Serum Foundation

    Christa Joanna Lee

    Why we love it: If The Ordinary’s Serum Foundation sounds familiar, that’s because it first made its debut in 2017 as part of The Ordinary Colours collection. After phasing it out in 2022, the brand brought back the original formula last year in response to fans who missed its weightless feel and natural-looking medium coverage. Despite the “Serum Foundation” name, this is not a skin care-makeup hybrid: Serum refers solely to its exceptionally fluid texture, and the brand says the formula contains no active skin-care ingredients. Instead, fast-evaporating silicones help it glide seamlessly across skin before leaving behind a barely-there finish, while coconut alkanes give it a silky slip without making it feel greasy.

    Titanium dioxide and iron oxides supply the pigment—though the former doesn’t make this a substitute for sunscreen—and light-reflecting mica keeps the finish from looking flat. The thin, buildable formula is an especially good fit for anyone who wants to even out discoloration and soften the look of pores without concealing their skin beneath a heavy layer of makeup.

    A selfie of Allure contributing commerce writer Christa Joanna Lee before applying The Ordinary Serum Foundation

    Lee before applying The Ordinary Serum Foundation

    Christa Joanna LeeAllure contributing commerce writer Christa Joanna Lee after applying The Ordinary Serum Foundation

    Lee after applying The Ordinary Serum Foundation

    Christa Joanna Lee

    Tester feedback from contributing commerce writer Christa Joanna Lee

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    “I’m dealing with quite a bit of new melasma after a summer in the sun—even though I was diligent about sunscreen, I promise—along with easily irritated skin that’s prone to redness. That said, I hate the feeling of wearing makeup; my ultimate test is whether I forget I have it on and nearly go to bed without washing my face. The Ordinary Serum Foundation passes with flying colors. It’s thin, lightweight, and spreads smoothly without looking streaky. Like most serum foundations, it isn’t endlessly buildable, and it doesn’t rely on a lineup of heavy-hitting skin-care ingredients. But as you can see in the video, it gives me just enough coverage to even out my skin tone while still looking and feeling like bare skin.” —Christa Joanna Lee, contributing commerce writer

    More to know

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    • Key ingredients: silicones, coconut alkanes, titanium dioxide, iron oxides, mica
    • Shades: 36
    • Coverage: medium
    • Finish: natural
    • Who it’s for: everyone, except for those with very dry skin, as it doesn’t have meaningful humectants
    • Fragrance-free: yes

    A Grain of Comfort: Rice Lipids + Ectoin Microemulsion

    Bottle of The Ordinary Rice Lipids + Ectoin Microemulsion with white cap and label on light gray backgroundSave to wishlistSave to wishlist

    The Ordinary

    Rice Lipids + Ectoin Microemulsion

    $13

    Amazon

    $13

    Nordstrom

    $13

    Ulta Beauty

    Allure commerce editorial assistant Hailey Roy applying The Ordinary Rice Lipids + Ectoin Microemulsion

    Hailey Roy

    Why we love it: When you want the nourishment of a rich cream without its weight, reach for The Ordinary’s Rice Lipids + Ectoin Microemulsion, which goes beyond the brand’s better-known single-ingredient serums with a more complex approach to hydration. The formula contains both water-based hydrators and nourishing oils, which typically require emulsifiers that can give creams a waxy or heavy feel.

    To keep the two evenly blended without weighing down the texture, The Ordinary instead uses a high-pressure microfluidizer to break the mixture into smaller, more uniform droplets. The result is an unusually fluid lotion that absorbs quickly without leaving a greasy film. Rice lipids and jojoba oil seal in moisture and replenish the skin barrier, while 2% ectoin soothes redness and protects against water loss. Glycerin, sodium hyaluronate, urea, and sodium PCA round out the formula by attracting and holding onto water. It’s an especially good match for dry, dehydrated, or sensitive skin—and our tester, whose skin is perpetually parched, found that just a few drops went a long way.

    Tester feedback from commerce editorial assistant Hailey Roy

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    “I have dry skin, and despite what some online reviewers may say, this ultra-lightweight serum doesn’t need to be paired with a thicker moisturizer to get the job done. It’s been my go-to all summer for multiple reasons: It's affordable, it’s light enough that it doesn’t weigh down my skin, it moisturizes without feeling greasy, and I only need a few drops in the morning to keep my skin hydrated throughout the entire day. Even with NYC reaching rainforest-adjacent humidity levels recently, this serum never felt heavy or uncomfortable on my skin. I have yet to put it to the test in the winter, when my skin tends to get super dry, but for summer, this serum is just what my skin needs.” —Hailey Roy, commerce editorial assistant

    More to know

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    • Key ingredients: rice lipids, jojoba oil, 2% ectoin, glycerin, sodium hyaluronate, urea, sodium PCA
    • Who it’s for: people with dry or dehydrated skin
    • Fragrance-free: yes

    More The Ordinary Products We Love:

    Pore Power Pair: Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1% Serum

    Bottle of The Ordinary Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1% Serum with white cap on light gray backgroundSave to wishlistSave to wishlist

    The Ordinary

    Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1% Serum

    $6

    Amazon

    $6

    Nordstrom

    $6

    Ulta Beauty

    Why we love it: The Ordinary’s Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1% Serum wasn’t the first niacinamide serum out there, but it was among the early high-concentration formulas that helped turn the ingredient into a skin-care headliner. Niacinamide had previously appeared in moisturizers and serums, though it was often tucked into proprietary blends at undisclosed percentages; The Ordinary put a relatively high 10% concentration right in the product name, then paired it with 1% zinc PCA. Together, the duo regulates excess sebum, supports the moisture barrier, brightens uneven skin tone, and minimizes the appearance of enlarged pores and rough texture.

    There’s little else competing for attention in the streamlined, water-based formula except tamarind seed, which gives the serum its slightly viscous texture. The fragrance-, oil-, and silicone-free formula is geared towards oily or combination skin dealing with shine, congestion, and post-breakout discoloration.

    More to know

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    • Key ingredients: 10% niacinamide, 1% zinc, tamarind seed
    • Who it’s for: people with discoloration, large pores, or excess sebum
    • Fragrance-free: yes

    Pep Talk: Multi-Peptide Serum for Hair Density

    The Ordinary Multi-Peptide Serum for Hair Density in branded dropper component on a light gray backgroundSave to wishlistSave to wishlist

    The Ordinary

    Multi-Peptide Serum for Hair Density

    $24

    Amazon

    $24

    Nordstrom

    $24

    Ulta Beauty

    Why it’s worth it: The lightweight leave-in (the brand’s first foray into hair care) combines an impressive list of five trademarked ingredient complexes—Redensyl, Procapil, Capixyl, Baicapil, and AnaGain—with caffeine to support thicker- and denser-looking hair. That roster also includes peptides, which are short chains of amino acids that act as signaling molecules, essentially “communicating” with hair follicles and scalp cells, Whitney Hovenic, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in Reno, Nevada, previously told Allure.

    Together, these technologies may “support the appearance of fuller hair from several biological pathways,” Dara Spearman, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in Fort Wayne, Indiana, previously told Allure. The key word, however, is support: This cosmetic density serum isn’t an FDA-approved hair-loss treatment like minoxidil, and research on its individual complexes remains limited. Consistent nightly use may help reduce shedding and make early thinning less noticeable, but it’s neither a miracle growth potion nor a substitute for clinically proven treatment, especially for advanced hair loss or shedding tied to an underlying medical condition.

    More to know

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    • Key ingredients: Redensyl, Procapil, Capixyl, Baicapil, AnaGain, caffeine, biotinoyl tripeptide-1, acetyl tetrapeptide-3
    • Who it's for: people with thinning hair
    • Fragrance-free: yes

    Milky Way: Saccharomyces Ferment 30% Milky Toner

    The Ordinary Saccharomyces Ferment 30% Milky Toner in branded bottle component on a light gray backgroundSave to wishlistSave to wishlist

    The Ordinary

    Saccharomyces Ferment 30% Milky Toner

    $14

    Amazon

    $14

    Nordstrom

    $14

    Ulta Beauty

    Why we love it: If the brand’s Glycolic Acid 7% Exfoliating Toner sounds too intense for your sensitive skin, The Ordinary’s Saccharomyces Ferment 30% Milky Toner is its gentler counterpart. Its 30% Saccharomyces yeast ferment contains 3% N-acetylglucosamine, an amino sugar that gently encourages surface exfoliation without relying on AHAs or BHAs, helping skin look smoother and more even with less potential for irritation. The addition of squalane replenishes moisture and supports the skin barrier, while “the milky texture leaves behind a subtle dewy glow that instantly makes dull skin look fresher and more luminous,” Alessandra Haskin, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in New York City, previously told Allure. She calls it a “balanced, clarifying toner that delivers the benefits of exfoliation and hydration” in one go. And our editors agreed: Just a few months after launching, it earned an Allure Best of Beauty Award in the Steals category.

    Tester feedback from Han

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    “I love, love hydrating toners, but when I'm dealing with texture and post-breakout dark spots, I reach for something with a little exfoliating oomph. The Saccharomyces Ferment 30% Milky Toner is so gentle, you'd barely even know it has exfoliating properties. But thanks to fermented yeast, it sweeps away dead skin cells like a dream.” —Sarah Han, commerce editor

    More to know

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    • Key ingredients: 30% Saccharomyces yeast ferment, squalane
    • Who it’s for: people with dry or sensitive skin
    • Fragrance-free: yes

    One Step Closer to Smooth: Retinal 0.2 Emulsion

    Retinal 0.2% Emulsion in white tube on gray backgroundSave to wishlistSave to wishlist

    The Ordinary

    Retinal 0.2% Emulsion

    $15

    Amazon

    $15

    Nordstrom

    $15

    Ulta Beauty

    Why it's worth it: If you’ve already worked your way through beginner retinols, The Ordinary’s Retinal 0.2% Emulsion is ready to raise the stakes. It’s the brand’s highest-strength retinoid formula, with 0.2% retinal, which is retinol’s faster-acting relative. Quick chemistry lesson: Retinol has to undergo two conversions in the skin before it becomes active retinoic acid, whereas retinal is already one step closer, allowing it to get to work more efficiently on fine lines, dark spots, uneven tone, rough texture, and loss of firmness.

    Because retinal is notoriously fussy and prone to breaking down, the brand encases it in tiny hydroxyapatite (a calcium-phosphate mineral that makes up much of our bones and tooth enamel) particles for stability, then protects the bright-yellow formula from light and air in an opaque, airless pump as opposed to their usual droppers. The lightweight emulsion also contains lab-made versions of soothing compounds found in oats, plus bisabolol, antioxidant ergothioneine, and vitamin E to offset the dryness and discomfort that can come with retinoid use.

    Tester feedback from former associate manager of special projects Talia Gutierrez

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    "A humble brag, but my skin has never looked better, and I can credit it to a handful of The Ordinary products I have in my current skincare lineup. My most recent addition is this $15 retinol that I've worked up to using. It's high-strength, meaning if you're new to retinol, this may not be the product to use right off the bat, but if you're looking for an affordable option that doesn't dry out your skin but still delivers the fine-line and dark spot-reducing benefits, give this Retinal 0.2% Emulsion Serum a try." —Talia Gutierrez, former associate manager of special projects

    More to know

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    • Key ingredients: 0.2% retinal, oat, bisabolol, antioxidant ergothioneine, vitamin E
    • Who it’s for: advanced retinoid users
    • Fragrance-free: yes

    Face the Clean: Squalane Cleanser

    The Ordinary Squalane Cleanser light gray and white tube on light gray backgroundSave to wishlistSave to wishlist

    The Ordinary

    Squalane Cleanser

    $21

    Amazon

    $21

    Nordstrom

    $21

    Ulta Beauty

    Why it's worth it: When The Ordinary debuted its first face wash, the Squalane Cleanser, the online response was as succinct as it was enthusiastic: “Want!” “Need!” Clearly, shoppers meant it. The bestselling cream-like balm melts into a clear, oil-like cleanser when warmed between dry palms, dissolving makeup, sunscreen, and grime before emulsifying with water and rinsing clean. Plant-derived squalane gives the formula its makeup-melting slip; glycerin draws in moisture, and sugar-derived emulsifiers wash everything away without a greasy film. It became so popular that the brand then released a five-ounce tube—three times the original size—followed by an even more generous 8.1-ounce option, because skin simply can’t get enough of it.

    More to know

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    • Key ingredients: squalane, glycerin, sugar-derived emulsifiers
    • Who it’s for: everyone
    • Fragrance-free: yes

    Firm Believer: Multi-Peptide + Copper Peptides 1% Serum

    The Ordinary Multi-Peptide + Copper Peptides 1% Serum in branded dropper component on a light gray backgroundSave to wishlistSave to wishlist

    The Ordinary

    Multi-Peptide + Copper Peptides 1% Serum

    $32

    Amazon

    $32

    Nordstrom

    $32

    Ulta Beauty

    Why it’s worth it: Previously called “Buffet,” The Ordinary’s bright-blue serum may have a more straightforward name now, but it’s still serving nearly everything mature skin could order. Multi-Peptide + Copper Peptides 1% combines several signaling peptides designed to address fine lines, firmness, elasticity, and texture from multiple angles. It “offers broad peptide benefits, including copper tripeptide-1 to maintain collagen and elastin—two structural proteins mature skin gradually loses,” says Mona Foad, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in Cincinnati. That copper complex is also responsible for the formula’s distinctive blue hue, while glycerin and two forms of hyaluronic acid draw in moisture for an immediate plumping effect. A blend of amino acids, sugars, urea, and PCA (pyrrolidone carboxylic acid) mimics components of skin’s natural moisturizing factors, while allantoin soothes and keeps the ingredient-packed formula comfortable.

    More to know

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    • Key ingredients: acetyl hexapeptide-8, palmitoyl tripeptide-1, palmitoyl tetrapeptide-7, amino acids, sugars, urea, PCA, allantoin
    • Who it’s for: everyone, especially people with mature skin
    • Fragrance-free: yes

    Spot the Difference: Azelaic Acid Suspension 10%

    The Ordinary Azelaic Acid Suspension 10% in tube with clear cap on light gray backgroundSave to wishlistSave to wishlist

    The Ordinary

    Azelaic Acid Suspension 10%

    $12

    Amazon

    $12

    Ulta Beauty

    $12

    Sephora

    Why it's worth it: Dermatologists had long been prescribing 15% to 20% azelaic-acid treatments for acne, but The Ordinary’s Azelaic Acid Suspension 10% helped move the ingredient from the derm office into mainstream skin-care routines. “Azelaic acid has been shown to be bactericidal against P. acnes, the bacteria on the skin that is one of the causes of acne,” Ava Shamban, MD, a Beverly Hills-based board-certified dermatologist, previously told Allure. The multitasking acid also gently loosens dead surface cells, prevents clogged pores and acne-related inflammation, and gradually fades post-blemish discoloration, making this streamlined formula a solid pick for redness, breakouts, uneven tone, and rough texture.

    The “suspension” in its name refers to how the insoluble azelaic acid particles are dispersed throughout a silicone-rich cream, giving it a silky, matte, almost primer-like finish that’s especially well suited to oily skin. (Though that texture can be polarizing: Apply too much or pair it with incompatible formulas and it may pill, turn chalky, or leave a white cast, so a pea-size amount is plenty.)

    Another perk: Azelaic acid is one of the few acne-fighting actives generally considered compatible with pregnancy and nursing. However, it’s always best to clear new ingredients with your ob-gyn or dermatologist.

    More to know

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    • Key ingredients: 10% azelaic acid, silicones
    • Who it’s for: people with acne-prone skin
    • Fragrance-free: yes

    Frequently Asked Questions

    Meet the experts

    • Mona Foad, MD, a board-certified dermatologist and founder of MONA Dermatology based in Cincinnati, OH
    • Alessandra Haskin, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in New York City
    • Whitney Hovenic, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in Reno, Nevada
    • Dara Spearman, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in Fort Wayne, Indiana
    • Maya Thosani, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in Scottsdale, Arizona

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

    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.

  • A New Report on Plastic Surgery Trends Shows Americans Over 66 Want to Be Snatched, Too

    A New Report on Plastic Surgery Trends Shows Americans Over 66 Want to Be Snatched, Too

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    Who says grandma can’t have a cinched waist? According to a new report on cosmetic trends from the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS), liposuction came out on top as America’s most popular cosmetic surgery procedure—but its core audience isn’t what you’d think. Adults aged 66 and up are getting plastic surgery more than ever before. The age group reported a 24% rise in procedure volume, per the report, which turns out to be the largest gain of any age group over the past year.

    Is it the Kris Jenner effect? Or is it because Americans are living longer, healthier lives and want to spend their final days looking as hot as possible? I’m assuming it’s the latter, but let’s say the momager really is inspiring older people to go under the knife. It tracks: The number of facelifts performed have increased 13% year over year (just wait until the 2026 report, when we see the impact of Denise Richards’ work). Lift procedures—which are meant to tighten and contour—across areas of the body have also significantly gone up in numbers. These include forehead and brow, upper body, arm and neck, thigh, and breast lifts.

    We shouldn’t be surprised. Besides combatting the effects of aging, more patients are seeking out plastic surgery due to their use of GLP-1 medications—rapid weight loss can lead to excess skin and overall discomfort, and 11% of adults are currently taking the drugs to lose weight, per a recent Gallup Poll. Melissa Doft, MD, a board-certified plastic surgeon in New York City, agrees. “More and more patients are taking GLP-1s, particularly perimenopausal and post-menopausal women,” she adds. “This has led to more women feeling better about their bodies and wanting to look their best without any excess skin, resulting in an increase in mastopexies (breast lifts), abdominoplasties, and facelifts.” It’s not just anecdotal, either—we’re seeing this play out directly in doctors’ offices like Doft’s: 82% of ASPS surgeons reported having consultations related to weight loss drugs with their patients last year, although consultations don’t directly correlate to procedure numbers.

    Patients are also migrating away from filler as facial fat grafting takes over—it’s seen the largest single-year gain of any procedure with 39% growth from last year, and is often used alongside facelifts. This procedure is when fat is suctioned off of one’s body (or… someone else’s) from areas like the arms, legs, or backside, and injected into the face. If that makes your skin crawl, take it from Faryan Jalalabadi, MD, a board-certified plastic surgeon in Beverly Hills—he previously told Allure that fat is “the most superior volumizing agent that we currently have,” and he thinks it’s safer than other regenerative treatments like salmon sperm DNA, exosomes, and platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF). While this procedure had already been gaining traction, surgeons from ASPS believe it’s become increasingly popular due to (again!) GLP-1 use resulting in a loss of facial volume.

    For the fifth consecutive year, liposuction is still the most popular plastic surgery procedure in America. Liposuction is different from lifting procedures—lifts often improve the shape and tone of the targeted area, while lipo removes unwanted or excess fat—although they’re often used in tandem with one another. Americans ages 50 to 64 report the highest usage of GLP-1s, which may also lead to more liposuction procedures, but the continued popularity of the protocol isn’t just because weight loss drugs are on the rise. “Liposuction can be a major part of almost every operation,” Steven Williams, MD, board-certified plastic surgeon in Dublin, California and former president of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, previously told Allure.

    Back to the 66-year-olds. We’re currently in plastic surgery’s “undetectable era,” so it makes sense that we’re seeing tweakments instead of total body makeovers. “Today's patients are increasingly seeking authentic restoration rather than transformation,” C. Bob Basu, MD, president of ASPS, said in a statement. “Many are looking to reverse physical changes that no longer reflect how they feel on the inside." According to 2025 data, the most common motivators for Americans to seek out cosmetic procedures was because they went through a significant life change—think pregnancy, aging, and yes, weight loss of all kinds.

    Possibly the most surprising aspect of the report is where, exactly, the majority of these procedures are taking place—and it’s not New York or Beverly Hills. It just so happens to be the South Atlantic region, which is made up of Florida, Georgia, North Carolina, South Carolina, Virginia, Maryland, Washington D.C., Delaware, and West Virginia. This area had the highest number of cosmetic surgeries in 2025, totaling 548,025, an 8% increase over 2024.

    Maybe that’s not so surprising, especially if you’ve ever people-watched in Miami or are at all familiar with Mar-a-Lago face. Also, Florida is still the most popular destination for retirees to move to, which could explain the 66 and up age group who want to be the most snatched person at the Bingo table. I see my future and it is bright.