unconsciousblast

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

Soap, milk, clean girl, quiet luxury. After a year full of minimalist nail designs and colors, all signs point to a full pendulum swing: This winter’s nail art trends are loud, proud, bright, shiny, and spotted. You’d be hard-pressed to find a “barely there” in the bunch.

Fall runways featured flashy, reimagined animal prints. It took one innocent selfie from Hailey Bieber—the harbinger of many nail trends—to make polka-dot nails explode in popularity. And suddenly our feeds were filled with edgy, 3D takes on silver molten metal. If you’re ready for your nail art to be less whisper, more shout, these winter nail art trends are a perfect, bold antidote to the neutrals and nudes that dominated much of 2025. Below, experts break down what their clients are asking for and what they expect to see trending this season.

Polka dots

Courtesy of @nailsbyzolaCourtesy of @nail.foolCourtesy of @nailsxanalysseCourtesy of @enamelleCourtesy of @overgloweditCourtesy of @nailsxanalysse

If bare nails are like chamomile tea and sculptural, 3D nails are the quad latte of nail art, polka dots are like a half-caff—a low-commitment pick-me-up. If you’re just coming out of your natural nail daze, a good entry-level design like coquettish dots is the perfect first winter mani.

But just because the design is simple doesn't mean it has to be boring. Try a gradient Ben Day pattern (like the dots you see in comic-book illustrations or a Lichtenstein painting), create a black-and-white French manicure with dots just on the tips, à la Dua Lipa, or paint a Milky Way constellation of alternating sizes across the center. And of course, glazed pink nails with evenly-spaced white spots—like Hailey Bieber or Sabrina Carpenter—are a reliable go-to.

You’ll need a steady hand and the right tools to nail this trend, says Juanita Huber-Millet, founder and creative director of Townhouse salons. Otherwise, the spots will look amorphous, like a middle school art project done freehand. “Our nail artists work with dotting tools to ensure every detail is perfectly placed,” she explains. “It’s that precision and polish that elevate the look from playful to truly fashion-forward.”

A set like DND Dotting Nail Art Tools offers multiple dotting tips so you can create different looks. Use a larger, rounded tip for Minnie Mouse spots (see Sydney Sweeney’s inverted white-and-red polka-dot manicure; OPI Big Apple Red was practically made for this throwback combo) or a teeny pointed tip for delicate French hosiery dots (a sheer black like Cirque Colors NSFW Jelly makes a great base for black dots if you want that cheeky lingerie look). For a brighter vibe, Nails Inc. founder Thea Green recommends tiny green dots over hot pink (Wicked: For Good is in theaters this winter, after all).

Velvet French manicure

Courtesy of @jesamarie_Courtesy of @graciela.nailsCourtesy of @nailartbyqueenie

A classic French is fine and good for the holidays, but with all the emphasis on maximalism this season, it could use a few extra ingredients. A velvet French is like an eggnog, but with a dash of peppermint flavor for intrigue. You still get the sleek silhouette of French tips, but the cool dimension of magnetic polish. “It's fashionable without [being] overpowering,” says Los Angeles-based nail artist Sarah Chue.

You could go the sleek and simple route: a regular white-tipped French with an all-over velvet sheen as the base (INLP in Cashmere is a good neutral, or Born Pretty polish in Jelly Pink if you prefer your French manicure with a pinker base). It’s a versatile look, and any length or shape will work because the finish is what makes the impact.

Or you could mix it up. Get creative with a color—or five!—or pull the cat-eye dimension on just the tips so it’s really only a French manicure at certain angles. “To achieve this, you would use a rectangle magnet,” says Chue. “Hold the magnet upright and start from the cuticle of the nail and gently and slowly drag the magnet down towards the tip of the nail, revealing the French curve.”

Surrealist animal print

Courtesy of @misspopnailsCourtesy of @happyclawsssCourtesy of @naominailsnycCourtesy of @vanityprojects

If Salvador Dalí were alive today and forayed into a side hustle as a nail tech, his clients wouldn’t end up with just a standard leopard print. Purple crocodiles, holographic blue zebras, and butterflies with gold-tipped pink wings—now that’s the stuff of a true surrealist’s dream.

This winter, we’re expecting a zoo’s worth of animal prints in unexpected colors, like the golden zebra stripes New York City-based manicurist Miss Pop painted onto Salon Perfect Magnetic Mirror Effect press-ons for Bronx and Banco at Fashion Week this fall. “I love re-creating the print and taking it to the next dimension by playing with textured, tactile spots or giving the illusion of the way fur glistens in the light,” she says.

More intricate designs are better left to the seasoned pros or press-ons, but crocodile scales are fairly straightforward. Start with a base color of your choice (since we’re dealing with Technicolor wildlife, we recommend Holo Taco nail polish in Peri-Social), then paint on a blooming gel like Gelcare Blooming Gel, which "allows drops of [gel polish color] to move without them connecting,” says New York-based manicurist Elle Gerstein.

Then place drops of your crocodile-scale color (we like Apres Gel Couleur in PB&Jelly) and watch them “bloom.” You may want a nail-dotting tool to guide them into uniform squoval shapes, but keep in mind: “This can only be done with gel and not lacquer,” says Gerstein. A UV light is what will freeze those drops of concentrated color into place.

Marbled

Courtesy of @enamelleCourtesy of @sansungnails

Another handy use for that blooming gel? The marbled stone nails we’re seeing everywhere on our Instagram feeds are thanks to nail artists like Gerstein and Naomi Yasuda.

Choose a base color, then two or three complementary colors to swirl on top of a coat of blooming gel. For a subtler set, start with a sheer neutral like Nails Inc. 1-Step Nail Polish in It’s Topless Renee, top with blooming gel, and use a dotting tool to swirl on shades of espresso and chestnut (try Essie Fringes & Saddle or Save a Cowboy) alongside a white like Static Nails Liquid Glass Lacquer in Elixir to give it that cracked-stone dimension.

If realistic marble sounds too buttoned-up for your taste, reach for varying shades of wintery blues or even swirls of hot pink and orange. The key pieces are: blooming gel to keep those colors separated and lines of white to help create realistic variation in the “stone.”

Chunky knit

Courtesy of @iris.nailed.itCourtesy of @baynailedit

The weather outside is frightful, and what better way to stave off the cold than an homage to your coziest sweater? Whether you prefer a hardy New England fisherman knit, delicate embroidery on cashmere, or classic Fair Isle patterns, a sprinkling of acrylic powder is just as good as a pair of knitting needles.

Gerstein especially loves the combo of glossy and matte to emphasize texture. “It creates the fun fabric look that we’re seeing on the runways and gives your polish some versatility,” she says.

Start with a glossy gel base and cure it with a UV light. Then use the same color to paint on your knitted design. Sprinkle a clear acrylic powder on top, cure again, and brush the excess powder away. You’ll be left with a monochromatic knit effect that rivals your favorite cardigan.

Meet the experts

• Elle Gerstein is a New York City-based nail artist.
• Thea Green is the founder of the London-based brand Nails Inc.
• Juanita Huber-Millet is the founder and creative director of Townhouse salons across the UK, and in New York City and Los Angeles.
• Miss Pop is a New York City-based nail artist.

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

If you’ve finally reached the point where you’re ready to stop guessing and start finding the best face moisturizers for eczema, you’re in the right place. “When you’re dealing with dry, rough patches, you need a moisturizer that does more than just add hydration. It should help repair the skin barrier and still feel comfortable and lightweight enough for everyday wear,” says Sarah Sung, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in Seattle. Because when your barrier is compromised, even a so-called “gentle” cream can sting, burn, or leave skin feeling tight and angry.

To find formulas that do more than just moisturize, look for ceramides that restore barrier function, humectants like glycerin or hyaluronic acid that draw water in, and soothing ingredients (like oatmeal) to calm irritation—all without fragrance, harsh preservatives, or pore-clogging fillers.

Ahead, you’ll find our favorite derm-backed picks that check every box and prove finding comfort and relief is possible.

Our Top Face Moisturizers for Eczema

• Best Overall: Colorescience Barrier Pro Essential Moisturizer, $78
• Best Drugstore: La Roche-Posay Toleriane Double Repair Face Moisturizer, $25
• Best for Barrier Repair: Dr. Althea 147 Barrier Cream, $27
• Best Long-Lasting: Sonsie Multi Moisture Cream, $48
• Best Budget: Vanicream Daily Facial Moisturizer, $14
• Best for Itch Relief: CeraVe Itch Relief Moisturizing Cream, $25

Frequently Asked QuestionsAccordionItemContainerButtonLargeChevron

• What moisturizer is best for facial eczema?
• How do over-the-counter face moisturizers for eczema compare to prescription formulas?
• Meet the experts
• How we test and review products
• Our staff and testers

Best Overall: Colorscience Barrier Pro Essential Moisturizer

Colorscience

Barrier Pro Essential Moisturizer

$78

Amazon

$78

Nordstrom

Why it's worth it: Lightweight, non-greasy hydration is key for eczema-prone skin (since heavy occlusives can trap heat and make skin irritation worse), but, as we previously mentioned, moisture alone often isn’t enough. Colorescience Barrier Pro Essential Moisturizer goes a step further by actively strengthening a weakened skin barrier. “In addition to delivering sheer hydration, it features hyaluronic acid, prickly pear cactus, and squalane, which are known for their hydrating and barrier repair properties,” says Gary Goldenberg, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in New York City. And it’s not just any hyaluronic acid: The formula uses a tri-molecular version that draws water into multiple layers of the skin for deeper, longer-lasting hydration. Microbiome-supporting lactobacillus ferment, combined with calming botanicals like snow mushroom, helps ease redness and flaking, leaving dry skin more comfortable, balanced, and better able to handle everyday stressors (like UV and blue light) that tend to trigger eczema flare-ups.

Allure social director Kassidy Silva applying the Colorscience Barrier Pro Essential Moisturizer

Kassidy Silva

Silva after applying the Colorscience Barrier Pro Essential Moisturizer

Kassidy Silva

Tester feedback from social director Kassidy Silva

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“Ultra light, hydrating and luminating, the Colorescience Barrier Pro cream is my go-to daily moisturizer. Two pumps applied all over my face and neck, it dries down quickly and sits well under makeup. When I’m flaring up, I’ll add an extra pump and add in a few extra spritz of the Colorescience Barrier Pro Serum Spray.” —Kassidy Silva, social director

More to know

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• Key ingredients: tri-molecular hyaluronic acid, prickly pear cactus, squalane, snow mushroom, lactobacillus ferment
• Fragrance-free: yes

Best Drugstore: La Roche-Posay Toleriane Double Repair Face Moisturizer

La Roche-Posay

Toleriane Double Repair Face Moisturizer

$25

Amazon

$25

Dermstore

$26

Ulta Beauty

Why it's worth it: One of our six favorite La Roche-Posay products of all time, the 2024 Best of Beauty Award-winning Double Repair Face Moisturizer is a dermatologist-backed staple for eczema-prone skin thanks to its barrier-repairing formula and lightweight feel. It’s made with a blend of ceramides to replenish the skin’s protective lipid layer, niacinamide to calm redness, glycerin for lasting hydration, and the brand’s signature thermal spring water to support a balanced skin microbiome. “It’s oil-free, fragrance-free, and can repair the skin barrier in just one hour while keeping it hydrated for up to 48 hours,” says Dr. Goldenberg. Whether you use it on your face or body, it absorbs quickly and won’t clog pores.

Allure senior commerce director Shanna Shipin applying the La Roche-Posay Toleriane Double Repair Face Moisturizer

Shanna Shipin

Shipin after applying the La Roche-Posay Toleriane Double Repair Face Moisturizer

Shanna Shipin

Tester feedback from senior commerce director Shanna Shipin

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“It's up there with Aquaphor as a product that I can trust to perform no matter how dry or damaged my skin barrier is. It doesn't go big on fancy fine-line-reducing ingredients or anything; instead, it focuses on hydration. It leaves my skin wrapped in a cocoon of moisture—but not the overbearing and itchy kind! It plays nicely with my angry eczema flare-ups, and has no fragrance so that I can use it on my kids, too.” —Shanna Shipin, senior commerce director

More to know

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• Key ingredients: ceramides, niacinamide, glycerin, thermal spring water
• Fragrance-free: yes

Best for Barrier Repair: Dr. Althea 147 Barrier Cream

Dr. Althea

147 Barrier Cream

$27

Amazon

$27

Ulta Beauty

Why it's worth it: Remember when we said the more hyaluronic acid, the better? Dr. Althea 147 Barrier Cream takes that literally. The “1-4-7” stands for one key barrier-strengthening botanical (guaiazulene), four types of ceramides, and seven forms of hyaluronic acid—a formula designed to hydrate skin at multiple depths and rebuild a damaged moisture barrier. Additionally, those ceramides are especially important for eczema-prone skin: “They play a critical role in rebuilding the skin’s lipid matrix, preventing moisture loss and fortifying the barrier against irritants,” says Dr. Sung. Rounding things out are avocado extract and soothing artemisia, which help calm redness, sensitivity, and flaking.

Silva applying the Dr. Althea 147 Barrier Cream

Kassidy Silva

Silva after applying the Dr. Althea 147 Barrier Cream

Kassidy Silva

Tester feedback from Silva

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“Packing in the hydration overnight is one of the easiest ways to take care of my skin during the winter months. I’ll do my full nighttime routine starting with cleanser and a light toner, then add my first lighter moisturizer (currently Colorescience), apply my serums and finish it off with a thick layer of the Dr. Althea Barrier Cream. I use a hefty quarter sized dollop and apply it all over my face, rubbing the excess into my hands. Sealing everything in with the barrier cream leaves my skin plush and dewy by morning. And, it’s right around $25, so my wallet feels better when using a larger amount of the product.” —Silva, social director

More to know

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• Key ingredients: guaiazulene, ceramides, hyaluronic acid, avocado extract, artemisia
• Fragrance-free: yes

Best Long-Lasting: Sonsie Multi Moisture Cream

Sonsie

Multi Moisture Cream

$48

Sonsie

Why it's worth it: Why it's worth it: Originally launched as The Multi Moisture Mask, this formula recently got a new name—Sonsie Multi Moisture Cream—after people started using it for more than just masking. Now it’s officially a do-it-all hydrator you can slather on your face, body, or leave on overnight. Co-founded by Pamela Anderson, the brand keeps things simple but smart with this cream: It packs 12% glycerin and a very low-molecular-weight (50 kDa) hyaluronic acid that sinks deeper into the skin rather than sitting on the surface. “Humectants like glycerin and hyaluronic acid attract and hold water within the epidermis, delivering both immediate relief and lasting hydration,” says Dr. Sung. The texture is plush and leaves skin bouncy and calm—among the many reasons it snagged a 2025 Best of Beauty Award.

Tester feedback from Shipin

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“Hydrating. Nourishing. Consistent. Sonsie's cream simply works, day in and day out. That's saying something for me, who has dry but acne-prone skin, and plenty of allergies that cause dermatitis. Given that I test beauty products for a living, I'm constantly battling eczema breakouts, but I can rely on this ribbony formula to bring my skin back to a healthy baseline. It quells inflammation, feels like a million bucks (so elegant!), and is fragrance-free. It's a truly elevated daily moisturizer, and I haven't even talked about the packaging yet, which is a simple aluminum tube that sits beautifully on your counter, but also travels really well (as a frequent flier for work, I always have this in my carry-on). You only need a dab, and it'll stretch across your whole face, leaving a pretty, glowy sheen. I tend to prefer a lightweight moisturizer in the morning, so I'll primarily use this thicker cream in the evenings—almost like an overnight mask. And while it is on the heavier side, it never feels suffocating on the skin; it's no wonder it won a 2025 Best of Beauty Award!” —Shanna Shipin, senior commerce director

More to know

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• Key ingredients: glycerin, hyaluronic acid
• Fragrance-free: yes

Best Budget: Vanicream Daily Facial Moisturizer

Vanicream

Daily Facial Moisturizer

$14

Amazon

$14

Walmart

Why it's worth it: Vanicream Daily Facial Moisturizer has the Seal of Acceptance from the National Eczema Association, which is basically a shortcut way of saying: This stuff is really safe for sensitive, reactive skin. “It’s a silky lotion that feels weightless going on, yet hydrates like a cream,” says Dr. Sung. The formula leans on five ceramides and hyaluronic acid to “repair the lipid barrier and bind moisture into the top layer of the skin, so flakes, tightness, and rough patches become way less noticeable,” says Dr. Sung. And because it’s fragrance-, dye-, paraben-, and lanolin-free, and formulated without common allergens, it plays nicely with prescription topicals and everyday makeup. “Its non-comedogenic formula also minimizes breakouts while supporting barrier recovery for irritated skin,” she adds.

Tester feedback from associate manager of audience development Melanie Curry

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"I have uber sensitive skin, so I need a moisturizer that 1) won't break me out and 2) keep my skin hydrated all day. Which is why I love this Vanicream moisturizing cream. It feels amazing, and just a dab of it keeps my skin fresh all day, without any touchups. I also love how I can use it year-round—not too heavy for the summer but also not too light for the winter (when my skin gets super dry and flaky)." —Melanie Curry, associate manager of audience development

More to know

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• Key ingredients: ceramides, hyaluronic acid
• Fragrance-free: yes

Best for Itch Relief: CeraVe Itch Relief Moisturizing Cream

CeraVe

Itch Relief Moisturizing Cream

$25 $22 (12% off)

Amazon

$22

Walmart

Why it's worth it: CeraVe Itch Relief Moisturizing Cream doesn’t just hydrate—it goes after the itchiness that typically comes with those dry, rough patches. Its standout ingredient, 1% pramoxine hydrochloride, delivers fast-acting relief, so skin can start healing instead of staying irritated. The rest of the formula focuses on long-term barrier repair: “Packed with three essential ceramides and hyaluronic acid, this rich cream replenishes lipids and draws water into the epidermis for up to 24 hours,” says Dr. Sung. She adds that its proprietary MultiVesicular Emulsion (MVE delivery system “gradually releases moisture throughout the day, keeping chronically dry eczema calm and supple.” Even with petrolatum and shea butter in the mix, it absorbs without a greasy feel, making it easy to use on both the face and body.

More to know

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• Key ingredients: 1% pramoxine hydrochloride, ceramides, glycerin, petrolatum
• Fragrance-free: yes

Frequently Asked Questions

What moisturizer is best for facial eczema?

When dealing with facial eczema, take extra care to check the ingredient lists of your skin-care products. “Ceramides prevent moisture loss and fortify the barrier against irritants,” says Dr. Sung. From there, look for humectants like glycerin or hyaluronic acid to attract water to the skin. Emollients—think shea butter or petrolatum—help “fill in gaps between skin cells, creating a smooth, protective layer,” while colloidal oatmeal can calm itch, she says. A final bonus? Niacinamide, which Dr. Sung says helps “reduce inflammation and support natural barrier function,” so skin stays calmer and more resilient over time.

How do over-the-counter face moisturizers for eczema compare to prescription formulas?

Over-the-counter eczema creams are designed to be gentle, daily barrier builders, relying on ingredients like colloidal oatmeal, ceramides, and glycerin to hydrate and calm irritation. “The best moisturizers for eczema focus on mild anti-inflammatory effects,” making them ideal for maintenance or milder flare-ups, says Dr. Sung. Prescription treatments, on the other hand—such as topical corticosteroids or calcineurin inhibitors—offer stronger inflammation control, but they “carry risk like skin thinning or sensitivity with prolonged use,” she says. Dr. Sung’s advice: start with OTC formulas to strengthen and soothe the skin, and only “step up to prescription options when necessary, and under medical supervision.”

Meet the experts

• Gary Goldenberg, MD, a board-certified dermatologist and co-founder of Goldenberg Dermatology based in New York City
• Sarah Sung, MD, a board-certified dermatologist of The Perq based in Seattle

How we test and review products

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

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

Our staff and testers

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

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

Collage: Briana Rengifo; Source Images: Getty ImagesSave StorySave this storySave StorySave this story

There are a million and one things happening on the internet right now that would make anyone want to throw their phone off a bridge. One of the things that’s been doing it for me lately is the “new face” discourse that’s dominated the online celebrity rumor mill for the better part of 2025. If a famous person shows up anywhere looking a little different than the last time they were seen, my social media feeds flood with videos and comments declaring they must’ve undergone several plastic surgeries because they’ve been suddenly rendered “unrecognizable.”

The celebrities this phrase is thrown at are usually women who, sure, might have changed a little over the years but still largely look like themselves. Claiming that they’ve undergone surgical “transformations,” as they’re often called, is in itself a big reach with no evidence behind it, for one. But the fact that we’re so quick to use a term as extreme as “new face” to describe anyone whose look seems to have changed for reasons we can’t know is a sign of something more concerning: that we’ve become willing to disconnect ourselves from reality to justify our continued shaming of women’s appearances. Let’s look at a few examples.

Anne Hathaway was declared to have a “new face” after sitting front row at a Ralph Lauren show in April and then again after her Met Gala appearance in May. Netizens, professional content creators, and even doctors raced to make claims of a brow lift, facelift, and/or blepharoplasty without accounting for the tight-as-a-drum ponytail she wore to both events. Jennifer Lawrence has also been a recent target of “new face” discourse. Even though she’s only 35, she’s been similarly accused of rendering herself unrecognizable with various age-reversing cosmetic procedures (all of which she’s denied having done, save for Botox). Then there’s the one I really don’t get: Emma Stone. People online called her appearance at the Eddington premiere in June her “new face reveal,” and the blepharoplasty/facelift rumors have been rampant ever since (like Lawrence, she’s only 35).

Jennifer Lawrence at a red carpet premiere in October.

Photo: Getty Images

I could spend the rest of this story talking circles around the exact changes people have perceived in these women’s faces, but it would ultimately be beside the point. Because no matter how you slice and dice the speculation, going so far as to say that any of them have a “new face” is a wild exaggeration.

Hathaway, when she lets down those snatched updos, still has smile lines and a wrinkle here and there, and her eyelids appear slightly hooded rather than pulled back—like those of a typical (albeit very beautiful) 42-year-old. Lawrence’s eyes are as deep-set as ever, and her face has kept its rounded shape with full cheeks. Stone has certainly changed her eyebrow shape and, obviously, cut her hair short, but when I see her in motion in recent interviews (like this one with the BBC), I don’t see the drastic cosmetic transformation everyone else apparently does. When she laughs, her rounded cheeks push up toward her eyes, and her eyelids disappear into their natural hoods. Her forehead scrunches and relaxes when she inevitably makes a funny face or two. It doesn’t feel all that different from watching Easy A.

Are we not willing to accept that people’s faces are bound to change a little as they get older? Warranted, there are celebrities out there who do undergo drastic plastic surgery transformations that can be worth talking about in the right context. Kris Jenner did get what I think is fair to call a “new face;” hell, I mistook her for Kim Kardashian the first time I saw her post-facelift earlier this year. But making that leap for anyone whose face seems to have changed in tiny ways over a long period of time? It doesn’t account for the happenings of real life, like getting older. Or getting pregnant (Lawrence had a baby earlier this year, by the way). Or weight fluctuation, or medical conditions. It doesn’t even account for the simplest of factors, like using different makeup and hairstyling techniques. (Mara Roszak, hairstylist to actresses like Zoe Saldana, Stone, and Olivia Wilde, told Allure recently that for a “snatched” effect, she sometimes makes tiny hidden braids behind a client’s ears, pulls them up and back, and secures them behind the head.) Most of this “new face” discourse is simply not tethered to reality.

Hathaway at the Met Gala in May.

Photo: Getty Images

Hathaway at a WWD event in October.

Photo: Getty Images

It’s also a thinly veiled weapon of misogyny. Some women are praised for their so-called transformations, while others are shamed for doing too much for their faces. “I’ll have what she’s having” was a common sentiment when Hathaway went viral, but recent images of Stone posted by Roszak have drawn comments like “lol she doesn’t look like her anymore,” and “BRING BACK her unique face.” Either way, these women are held to narrow—and contradictory—parameters of what they ought to look like and what’s acceptable to do to your own face. It scares me to think that, if I were in their position at my current age of 31, I could just as easily be put on blast for having changed entirely simply because I tried something new with my look, went through something difficult that altered my appearance, or simply aged just enough for someone to notice (all of which I have done recently).

It all speaks to a deep fear of the changes that come with getting older, including aging. All three of the women I’ve discussed in this story have been in the public eye for at least a decade, and they all became household names by the time they hit their early 20s. It would be delusional to think that none of their faces would change through their Hollywood tenure, and yet the internet acts as if their respective, gradual aesthetic evolutions are shocking. Regardless of whether plastic surgery played a role in those evolutions, the change itself and the passage of time are what I think make people uncomfortable. These generational icons are not the same bright-eyed 20-somethings they were at the start of their careers, and it’s far easier to judge them for changing than it is for us to reckon with our fear that our faces are going to change eventually, too. So it doesn’t take a psych degree to understand that a lot of this commentary is pure projection.

Emma Stone en route to an appearance in October.

Photo: Getty Images

There’s definitely value in being aware of plastic surgery and how celebrities can use it to align with (and, in turn, reinforce) beauty standards—but the language we use when talking about that is important. Anyone who’s made content on social media, whether personally or professionally, knows the power of a catchy hook. Be honest, what’s more likely to get your attention? “Jennifer Lawrence has an entirely new face, and here’s how she got it.” Or: “Jennifer Lawrence’s face looks a little bit different but not that much, and it’s probably just because it’s evolving gradually with the passage of time.” Even I, with all my lecturing, would probably stick around to watch the former.

On social media, it feels normal for us to use and hear language designed to elicit a strong feeling that makes people want to stop, watch, judge, and react. It’s how we’ve been conditioned to operate on the internet since short-form video became a thing and impeded our ability to pay attention to anything for more than a few seconds at a time. But if we’re not stopping to think critically about what we’re hearing and seeing on the little dopamine machines we call phones, that junk winds up impacting our beliefs and perceptions in real life, too (I mean, just look at incel culture if you think I’m wrong).

And that makes us all a bunch of assholes. Because labeling such small changes a “new face”—especially on social media—rarely serves to challenge beauty standards the way people seem to think it does. It’s purely for our entertainment, with a “gotcha” kicker. And women, as usual, are the ones on full display while the rest of us get to watch the show… at least for a few moments before we scroll on to the next thing.

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

If the skin under your eyes has been looking dull, crepey, or dry lately, it is time to invest in one of the best hydrating eye creams. Your undereyes are thinner and more delicate than the rest of your face, which is why they’re usually the first place to show fine lines or puffiness. While your regular moisturizer can handle most of your skin’s needs, the eye area calls for something a little more targeted—think lighter textures, soothing ingredients, and formulas that won’t sting or migrate into your eyes. Whether you’re dealing with dark undereye circles, makeup settling into creases, or seasonal dryness, these editor- and derm-approved picks will help keep your undereyes plump, smooth, and hydrated.

Our Top Hydrating Eye Creams

• Best Overall: SkinCeuticals A.G.E. Advanced Eye, $125
• Best for Mature Skin: RoC Retinol Correxion Eye Cream, $30
• Best for Sensitive Skin: Biossance Squalane + Marine Algae Eye Cream, $56
• Best for Droopy Lids: Innbeauty Project Extreme Cream Eye, $48
• Best for Dry Skin: Belif Aqua Bomb Eye Gel, $32
• Best for Hyperpigmentation: Chantecaille Blanc Peony Eye Serum Dark Spot Corrector, $235
• Best for Puffiness: Isdin Isdinceutics Vital Eyes Night Eye Cream, $112
• Best Drugstore: CeraVe Eye Repair Cream, $20

Frequently Asked QuestionsAccordionItemContainerButtonLargeChevron

• What does an eye cream do that a facial moisturizer can't?
• Can hydrating eye creams reduce fine lines or dark circles, or do they just moisturize?
• What eye cream should I use if I have sensitive eyes??
• Meet the experts
• How we test and review products
• Our staff and testers

Best Overall: SkinCeuticals A.G.E. Advanced Eye

SkinCeuticals

A.G.E. Advanced Eye

$125

SkinCeuticals

$125

Dermstore

$125

Bluemercury

Allure contributing commerce editor Deanna Pai applying the SkinCeuticals A.G.E Advanced Eye

Deanna Pai

Why it's worth it: A.G.E. isn’t just an ironic acronym—it stands for advanced glycation end-products, molecules that form when sugar binds to proteins like collagen and elastin, speeding up visible skin aging. The 2023 Best of Beauty Award-winning SkinCeuticals A.G.E. Advanced Eye cream targets this process with a blend of peptides for deep hydration, caffeine to reduce puffiness, and antioxidant-rich extracts from pomegranate and bilberry to brighten and protect. Other hydrating ingredients, such as glycerin and sorbitol, help keep the delicate undereye area smooth and supple. “With regular use, patients have definitely noticed a decrease in the appearance of fine lines around the eyes,” Lauren Penzi, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in New York City, previously told Allure.

Tester feedback from contributing commerce editor Deanna Pai

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“I have really deep crow’s feet when I smile—the downside of having an expressive face—but this stuff has helped soften their look and keep them from getting further etched in when my face is at rest. It feels balmy and nourishing but not heavy, and I appreciate that it hasn’t seemed to exacerbate the milia around my eyes.” —Deanna Pai, contributing commerce editor

More to know

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• Key ingredients: caffeine, peptides, proxylane, flavonoids
• Fragrance-free: yes
• Ophthalmologist-tested: yes

Best for Mature Skin: RoC Retinol Correxion Eye Cream

RoC

Retinol Correxion Eye Cream

$30 $22 (27% off)

Amazon

$30

Ulta Beauty

Allure commerce editor Sarah Han applying the RoC Retinol Correxion Eye Cream

Sarah Han

Why it's worth it: Once upon a time, you could only get retinol with a doctor’s prescription—but RoC helped change that, being one of the earliest brands to introduce over-the-counter formulas. So, you can bet the brand knows a thing or two about retinols. The 2025 Best of Beauty Award-winning RoC Retinol Correxion Eye Cream pairs gentle yet effective retinol with moisture-replenishing ingredients like glycerin, panthenol, and vitamin E to “smooth fine lines, fade dark circles and hyperpigmentation, plus improve skin texture where it’s thinnest,” says Aegean H. Chan, a double board-certified dermatologist based in Santa Barbara, CA. The added hydrators help buffer the potential irritation from retinol while keeping the delicate undereye area moisturized and supple. Because retinol can increase sun sensitivity, “I recommend using it at night, layered with a thicker moisturizer to help reduce irritation, especially if you’re not already using facial retinols,” says Dr. Chan.

Tester feedback from commerce editor Sarah Han

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“RoC's eye cream has been a tried-and-true formula for many years now. I'm probably aging myself by linking to this review I wrote in 2021, but with the added years (I'm 32 now), my concerns about volume loss and creasing around the eyes are even more prevalent, so RoC's Retinol Correxion Line Smoothing Eye Cream has made its way back into my nighttime rotation. After all, not much can beat retinol in terms of wrinkle-reducing efficacy. I've never had any sensitivity using it either, perhaps because irritating-soothing glycerin is one of the top ingredients. All in all, this is a very affordable eye cream that outperforms many pricier formulas.” —Sarah Han, commerce editor

More to know

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• Key ingredients: retinol, glycerin, panthenol (pro-vitamin B5)
• Fragrance-free: yes
• Ophthalmologist-tested: not disclosed

Best for Sensitive Skin: Biossance Squalane + Marine Algae Eye Cream

Biossance

Squalane + Marine Algae Eye Cream

$56

Amazon

$56

Sephora

Allure contributing commerce writer Christa Joanna Lee applying the Biossance Squalane + Marine Algae Eye Cream

Christa Joanna Lee

Why it's worth it: Recognized by the National Eczema Association, Biossance Squalane + Marine Algae Eye Cream is fragrance-free and packed with gentle ingredients like squalane, glycerin, and panthenol to hydrate and soothe without irritation. “Squalane, in particular, is a fantastic ingredient for supporting the skin barrier, which is why I like this eye cream for those with sensitive skin. It helps give the formula a lovely, light texture on application,” says Dr. Chan. Fun fact: The brand’s squalane is sustainably derived from sugarcane rather than traditional shark liver, making it a win for both your skin and the planet. With added peptides and sustainably sourced marine algae, this cream leaves the delicate eye area soft, calm, and subtly refreshed.

Tester feedback from contributing commerce writer Christa Joanna Lee

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“This eye cream feels incredibly smooth and silky; there’s absolutely no tugging on my sensitive undereyes. When my skin’s feeling extra dry, those fine lines tend to pop, but this delivers a deep dose of hydration that plumps everything right back up. I’ll admit, I wasn’t wild about the natural scent at first, but it fades almost instantly—and the buttery texture completely makes up for it.” —Christa Joanna Lee, contributing commerce writer

More to know

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• Key ingredients: squalane, algae, paracress extract, hyaluronic acid
• Fragrance-free: yes
• Ophthalmologist-tested: not disclosed

Best for Droopy Lids: Innbeauty Project Extreme Cream Eye

Innbeauty Project

Extreme Cream Eye

$48

Sephora

$48

Kohl's

Allure senior news editor Nicola Dall’Asen applying the Innbeauty Project Extreme Cream Eye

Nicola Dall'Asen

Why it's worth it: If your lids are starting to look a little saggy—or just feel dry and tired—Innbeauty’s Project Extreme Cream Eye brings them back to life. Hydration is key for droopy lids because well-moisturized skin looks firmer and more elastic. This ophthalmologist-tested formula combines humectants like glycerin and tremella mushroom extract that draw in moisture with emollients like squalane that lock it in, leaving skin soft and supple. It’s also loaded with peptides to help firm and tighten over time, while botanical extracts like Centella asiatica and paracress soothe and support elasticity.

Tester feedback from senior news editor Nicola Dall’Asen

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“This is the grocery store rotisserie chicken of eye creams: It's thick, juicy, and hits every time without fail. Given that it looks and feels more expensive than it actually is, I like to take my time with it as if I were a rich lady with all the time in the world for pampering. After washing and toning my face, I only need one pump to fully slather the area above and under both eyes. Then I slap on some silicone eye patches, pour a (probably too big) glass of wine, and let it get to work while I catch up on my shows. But regardless of whether I leave it on for five minutes or 30, I always come away with brighter and more retentive undereyes. In this tiring-AF time, that's more than I could ever ask for.” —Nicola Dall’Asen, senior news editor

More to know

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• Key ingredients: paracress, biomimetic peptides, bio-retinol, amino acids, snow mushroom
• Fragrance-free: yes
• Ophthalmologist-tested: yes

Best for Dry Skin: Belif Aqua Bomb Eye Gel

Belif

Aqua Bomb Eye Gel

$32 $30 (6% off)

Amazon

$32

Ulta Beauty

$32

Revolve

Allure senior director of audience development Lexi Herrick applying the Belif Aqua Bomb Eye Gel

Lexi Herrick

Why it's worth it: Just like its name suggests, Belif Aqua Bomb Eye Gel provides an instant splash of hydration—the kind that feels lightweight, absorbs fast, and leaves your undereyes looking plump and refreshed. This K-beauty favorite (and 2025 Allure Best of Beauty Award winner) doesn’t just hydrate: It brightens, firms, and wakes up tired eyes. Caffeine and hyaluronic acid team up to depuff and drench skin in moisture, while niacinamide and vitamin C help fade the look of dark circles. Meanwhile, adenosine and collagen visibly smooth and boost elasticity. Bonus: The pen-like applicator and cooling ceramic tip make it easy to get a refreshing pick-me-up anytime you need it.

Tester feedback from senior director of audience development Lexi Herrick

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“The applicator for this eye cream is incredibly smooth and easy to use. This is one of my favorite products to bring with me when traveling or on the go. It's so gentle and hydrating, instantly adding moisture to my undereyes. I also have very sensitive skin under my eyes, and this has never given me an ounce of irritation.” —Lexi Herrick, senior director of audience development

More to know

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• Key ingredients: caffeine, hyaluronic acid, niacinamide, vitamin C, adenosine, collagen
• Fragrance-free: yes
• Ophthalmologist-tested: yes

Best for Hyperpigmentation: Chantecaille Blanc Peony Eye Serum Dark Spot Corrector

Chantecaille

Blanc Peony Eye Serum Dark Spot Corrector

$235

Nordstrom

$235

Dermstore

$235

Bluemercury

Allure associate beauty director Sarah Kinonen applying the Chantecaille Blanc Peony Eye Serum Dark Spot Corrector

Sarah Kinonen

Why it's worth it: Let’s say it one more time for the people in the back: We love a cooling-tip applicator when it comes to eye creams. The Chantecaille Blanc Peony Eye Serum Dark Spot Corrector nails it on the chic design and luxe feel, but it’s also so much more than sleek packaging. Known for incorporating botanicals into nearly all their skin-care formulas, Chantecaille packs this brightening serum with white peony extract to help even tone and proprietary thiamidol to visibly fade dark spots over time. Ginger extract and peptides smooth and energize tired eyes, so the entire area looks more even in tone and texture.

Tester feedback from associate beauty director Sarah Kinonen

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“I’m…exhausted. Between the nonstop stream of horrific news and being back in the office four (!) days a week, my body just can’t catch up, and it’s beginning to show in the form of perpetual puffy undereyes. My only reprieve? Aside from some much-needed extra sleep, my tired undereyes are loving their new 30-second cooling treatment with the Chantecaille Blanc Peony Eye Serum every morning. Its metal applicator cools on contact as the lightweight fluid—made with brightening peony extract and anti-inflammatory niacinamide—glides right onto sleepy skin. Now, if only it could make me some coffee too." —Sarah Kinonen, associate beauty director

More to know

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• Key ingredients: white peony, bitter ginger extract, thiamidol, peptides
• Fragrance-free: yes
• Ophthalmologist-tested: not disclosed

Best for Puffiness: Isdin Isdinceutics Vital Eyes Night Eye Cream

Isdin

Isdinceutics Vital Eyes Night Eye Cream

$112

Amazon

$112

Dermstore

Han applying the Isdin Isdinceutics Vital Eyes Night Eye Cream

Sarah Han

Why it's worth it: Made to work while you snooze, Isdin Isdinceutics Vital Eyes Night Eye Cream syncs up with your skin’s natural overnight repair mode so you wake up looking a little more rested. A key ingredient, “caffeine, is excellent for helping limit water retention,” says Morayo Adisa, MD, a board-certified dermatologist in Chicago. While the formula taps caffeine’s depuffing powers, glycerin draws in hydration, shea butter locks it in, and rice extract helps smooth and soften delicate undereyes. The brand’s LiftFirm complex—a blend of red sea algae and evergreen tree extracts—helps firm and tighten the skin. There’s also melatonin, which adds an antioxidant boost, helping repair damage from daily stressors as you rest. Come morning, your eyes look brighter and noticeably less puffy.

Tester feedback from Han

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“I usually toss applicators as soon as I open packaging (sorry, not sorry), but this sizable metal ball actually adds to the experience, so it's staying! It's extra cooling, doubling as a massage tool as I circle around my eyes, and I find it actually helps the product sink in, so I barely have to use my finger pads at all. While you need to use an eye cream long-term to see more noticeable effects, I'm already quite impressed. After my first few uses, I didn't feel the need to apply concealer! (And I always feel like I need at least a dab under my eyes to hide discoloration and make me look awake, so this is major.)” —Sarah Han, commerce writer

More to know

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• Key ingredients: melatonin, LiftFirm (read sea algae and evergreen tree extract), rice extract, caffeine, red algae
• Fragrance-free: no
• Ophthalmologist-tested: not disclosed

Best Drugstore: CeraVe Eye Repair Cream

CeraVe

Eye Repair Cream

$20 $14 (30% off)

Amazon

$20

Ulta Beauty

Why it's worth it: We appreciate it when a product name gets straight to the point, and CeraVe Eye Repair Cream does exactly what it promises. “This is a great option for those with dry and sensitive skin around the eyes, given the formulation includes barrier-supportive ingredients like ceramides and hyaluronic acid. I love the texture of this product; it’s very moisturizing but doesn’t feel too heavy. It provides a noticeable smoothing effect that works well under makeup. I also like this for a night treatment,” says Dr. Chan. It rivals pricier formulas for a fraction of the cost, making it the ultimate drugstore eye cream for restoring the undereye area while keeping it soft and resilient.

More to know

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• Key ingredients: ceramides, hyaluronic acid, niacinamide
• Fragrance-free: yes
• Ophthalmologist-tested: not disclosed

Frequently Asked Questions

What does an eye cream do that a facial moisturizer can't?

The main difference between an eye cream and a regular facial moisturizer comes down to the formulation. “The skin around the eyes is thinner, has fewer oil glands, and tends to be more sensitive,” says Dr. Chan. Because of that, eye creams are made with a lighter texture and gentler ingredients that are less likely to cause stinging or irritation—even if they migrate a bit into the eyes. Many are also ophthalmologist-tested to ensure they’re safe for use near such a delicate area. In short, while your moisturizer hydrates the rest of your face, an eye cream is carefully designed to nourish, protect, and smooth the skin where it matters most.

Can hydrating eye creams reduce fine lines or dark circles, or do they just moisturize?

“Eye creams often include specific active ingredients that can help with the common undereye complaints, in addition to moisturizing. Products with retinols and certain peptides can help improve skin texture, fine lines, and other skin changes associated with photodamage,” says Dr. Chan. These formulas are usually made with lower concentrations, so they’re gentle enough for the delicate eye area. Meanwhile, ingredients like hyaluronic acid, glycerin, and ceramides boost hydration and strengthen the skin barrier, while occlusives such as dimethicone lock in that moisture. So, a good eye cream does more than just plump the skin—it can also help soften fine lines, refine texture, and gradually brighten the undereye area.

What eye cream should I use if I have sensitive eyes?

If you have sensitive eyes, “it’s best to be cautious with products that contain strong actives, like retinoids, or potential irritants, such as fragrance. Because the skin around the eyes is more sensitive than elsewhere on the face, those ingredients can sometimes cause stinging or redness,” says Dr. Chan. When in doubt, patch-test any new eye cream on a small area for several days first to make sure your skin can handle it before applying it more widely.

Meet the experts

• Morayo Adisa, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in Chicago
• Aegean H. Chan, a double board-certified dermatologist and medical director of California Dermatology Group based in Santa Barbara, CA
• Lauren Penzi, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in New York City

How we test and review products

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

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

Our staff and testers

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

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

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

The best skin-care gift sets aren’t just for checking off a loved one’s birthday or holiday gift list—value sets are also the perfect excuse to treat yourself and discover new favorites without splurging on full sizes. Each curated kit is packed with mini versions of fan favorites, so you can find what really works before committing. Plus, their travel-size packaging makes them perfect for tossing into your gym bag, carry-on, or overnight tote for easy, on-the-go routines. Whether you’re new to a brand or just want to streamline your regimen, the best skin-care gift sets make healthier-looking skin feel effortless.

Ahead, we’ve rounded up the most giftable, travel-ready, and editor-approved options that make glowing skin one less thing to stress about.

Our Top Skin-Care Gift Sets to Shop Now

Rice to Meet YouTatcha The Starter Ritual SetJump to review$74

Amazon

Take That Glow to GoLaneige Mini Hydration To Go Gift SetJump to review$32

Amazon

Plumping PinnacleSkinCeuticals Injectables Power PairJump to review$238

SkinCeuticals

Our Top Skin-Care Gift Sets

Frequently Asked QuestionsAccordionItemContainerButtonLargeChevron

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

Rice to Meet You: Tatcha The Starter Ritual Set

Tatcha

The Starter Ritual Set

$74

Amazon

$74

Tatcha

Allure contributing commerce writer Christa Joanna Lee using the Tatcha Rice Wash

Christa Joanna Lee

Why it's worth it: When we think of Tatcha, the first word that often comes to mind is “luxe,” and they’ll quickly see why with The Starter Ritual Set. Inspired by centuries-old geisha rituals and traditional Japanese beauty practices, this four-step lineup is ideal for anyone with dry or mature skin looking to restore a healthy, lit-from-within glow. It includes The Rice Wash to purify (“the creamy texture feels incredibly luxurious as it smooths and brightens the skin,” Kristina Collins, MD, a double board-certified dermatologist based in Austin, previously told Allure), The Essence to plump, The Dewy Serum to treat, and The Dewy Skin Cream to nourish. Featuring ingredients like double-fermented rice, antioxidant-rich green tea, and hydrating algae, this routine leaves skin soft, radiant, and deeply hydrated. From its silky textures to its serene lavender packaging, every detail will remind them to slow down and enjoy a moment of self-care.

Tester feedback on Tatcha’s The Rice Wash from contributing commerce writer Christa Joanna Lee

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

More to know

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• What it includes: The Rice Wash (1.7 fl. oz.), The Essence (0.8 fl. oz.), The Dewy Serum (0.35 fl. oz.), The Dewy Skin Cream (0.5 fl. oz.)
• Key ingredients: double-fermented rice, green tea, algae
• Who it’s for: people with dry or mature skin

Take That Glow to Go: Laneige Mini Hydration To Go Gift Set

Laneige

Mini Hydration To Go Gift Set

$32

Amazon

$32

Sephora

Allure former shopping editor Angela Trakoshis applying the Laneige Lip Sleeping Mask

Angela Trakoshis

Why it's worth it: We probably don’t need to say much more than that this limited-edition kit includes Laneige’s viral Lip Sleeping Mask, but we’ll indulge you. Laneige has built its reputation on high-performing, hydration-obsessed formulas that feel expensive but aren’t. The Mini Hydration To Go Gift Set rounds up the brand’s bestsellers: Water Bank Gentle Gel Cleanser to purify, Cream Skin Toner & Moisturizer to soften and balance, Water Bank Blue Hyaluronic Cream Moisturizer to deeply hydrate, and of course, that iconic Lip Sleeping Mask to smooth and plump overnight. Together, they deliver dewy, bouncy, perfectly moisturized skin (and lips) anytime, anywhere. Bonus: It all comes tucked inside a cute, travel-ready bag.

Tester feedback on Laneige’s Lip Sleeping Mask from former shopping market editor Angela Trakoshis

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“I mean, this is the OG when it comes to lip masks. There's a reason it's a top-seller on Amazon. It moisturizes lips for hours on end—no reapplication needed. I apply the smallest amount of this stuff on my dry lips at night and am guaranteed to wake up with soft, hydrated lips in the morning.” —Angela Trakoshis, former shopping market editor

More to know

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• What it includes: Water Bank Gentle Gel Cleanser (2.7 fl. oz.), Cream Skin Toner and Moisturizer (1.7 fl. oz.), Water Bank Blue Hyaluronic Cream Moisturizer (0.33 fl. oz.), Lip Sleeping Mask in Berry (0.1 fl. oz.), cosmetic bag
• Key ingredients: hyaluronic acid, ceramides, peptides, white leaf tea water
• Who it’s for: everyone, especially if you have dull or dry skin or loss of elasticity

Plumping Pinnacle: SkinCeuticals Injectables Power Pair

SkinCeuticals

Injectables Power Pair

$238

SkinCeuticals

$238

Dermstore

Why it's worth it: Between the Best of Beauty-winning HA Intensifier Multi-Glycan and equally beloved P-Tiox, we couldn't possibly choose our favorite—even amongst the entire SkinCeuticals family, these two are editor faves. Both formulas are stars at boosting hydration levels and plumping skin, visibly minimizing the look of fine lines with continuous use—so they're great for anyone who wants to target volume loss, dullness, and/or wrinkles, as well as those who regularly go to in-office treatments as at-home maintenance. The best part about this giftable duo? You save $32 versus if you bought these two serums separately. Cha-ching.

Tester feedback on SkinCeuticals P-Tiox from contributing commerce editor Deanna Pai

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"A plastic surgeon once told me that I have a very expressive face—which was a nice way of saying my face is a hotbed for expression lines. That's where this stuff comes in handy. The lightweight serum uses peptides to inhibit signals to the facial muscles, kind of like neuromodulators, but on a much weaker scale. Still, I've found that it works wonders for all the little expression lines where injectables just can't help, like around my mouth." —Deanna Pai, contributing commerce editor

More to know

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• What it includes: P-Tiox (1 fl oz.), HA Intensifier Multi-Glycan (1 fl oz.)
• Key ingredients: hyaluronic acid, peptides, niacinamide, PHA, glycerin, soybean ferment extract

Glow All Over: Osea Juicy Duo Gift Set

Osea

Juicy Duo Gift Set

$32

Amazon

$32

Revolve

$32

Osea

Allure senior commerce director Shanna Shipin applying Osea Hyaluronic Lip Booster

Shanna Shipin

Why it's worth it: We're constantly singing Osea's praises, and what better time to experience its skin-care goodness, or gift said goodness, than the holiday season? Not only do its citrus-leaning body-care products boost your mood with every application, but the ingredients inside the Undaria Algae Body Oil all but guarantee silky-smooth, moisturized, and glazed skin. It doesn't feel heavy, either, despite being an oil. The Hyaluronic Lip Booster is prime lip care for the drier, colder months ahead, and the plush doe-foot applicator is perfect for a one-swipe-and-go situation.

Tester feedback on Osea Hyaluronic Lip Booster by Allure senior commerce director Shanna Shipin

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"I know this may look, and be billed as, a kind of lip gloss—but it is so much more than that. It's this lovely balm-like product that actually enrobes your lips in lasting nourishment and hydration. Honestly, I'm talking hours of a supple pout that smells faintly citrus-y. It doesn't have a tint or anything, but because the Booster is so nourishing, it brings out your lips' natural color. You can't talk about this product (or any Osea product, really) without also speaking to the packaging. The formula is a lovely honey color and looks so luxe in its frosted glass case, and the doe-foot applicator is so special. I've tried many applicators in my time as a beauty editor, and this is a high-quality one that is firm, plush, and draws just enough of the ‘booster’ out of the bottle and onto your lips—no potential for the product to flick onto your shirt." —Shanna Shipin, senior commerce director

More to know

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• What it includes: Hyaluronic Lip Oil Booster (0.41 fl. oz.), Undaria Algae Body Oil (1 fl. oz.)
• Key ingredients: hyaluronic acid, undaria seaweed, sea fern, caster seed oil, meadowfoam seed oil

Bum, Bum, and Beyond: Sol de Janeiro Jet Set Kit in Cheirosa '62

Sol De Janerio

Jet Set in Cheirosa '62

$34

Amazon

$34

Ulta Beauty

$34

Sephora

Why it's worth it: We’re not saying you should pick your beauty gifts based solely on how amazing they smell, but if you do, we get it. The Sol de Janeiro Jet Set includes three Best of Beauty Award-winning icons: the Brazilian 4 Play Body Wash, a cream-gel formula infused with coconut and açaí oils to tackle dryness before you even towel off; the Brazilian Bum Bum Cream, loaded with fast-absorbing cupuaçu butter, energizing caffeine, and antioxidant-rich Brazil nut and açaí oils for an all-over glow; and the Cheirosa ’62 Perfume Mist, a warm, addictive scent that—according to associate beauty editor Annie Blay-Tette—has “a 100% success rate in getting compliments.”

More to know

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• What it includes: Brazilian 4 Play Body Wash (3 fl. oz.), Brazilian Bum Bum Cream (1.7 fl. oz.), Cheirosa ‘62 Perfume Mist (1.1 fl. oz.)
• Key ingredients: caffeine, Brazil nut, cupuaçu butter, açaí oil
• Who it’s for: people with dry skin

Glass Act: Medicube Glass Skin Collagen Trial Kit

Medicube

Glass Skin Collagen Trial Kit

$15

Amazon

Allure features director Dianna Mazzone Singh removing the Medicube Collagen Night Wrapping Mask

Dianna Mazzone Singh

Why it's worth it: Ask anyone at the Allure office what their favorite Medicube product is and you’ll get a different answer every time—and that’s because the brand is stacked with derm-loved formulas at affordable price points. But if they’re new to the K-beauty brand, the Medicube Glass Skin Collagen Trial Kit is a great intro, featuring four hydrating and firming essentials: Collagen Toner, Collagen Serum, Collagen Cream, and a Collagen Wrapping Mask. And while, as dermatologist Dr. Dendy Engelman previously told Allure, topical collagen itself can’t penetrate deeply enough to boost collagen production, Medicube’s formulas don’t stop there—they’re joined by ingredients like glycerin and hyaluronic acid that help support elasticity, smooth fine lines, and give skin that plump, dewy, glass skin glow.

Tester feedback on Medicube’s Collagen Night Wrapping Mask from features director Dianna Singh

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"The way my skin looks with a layer of Medicube Collagen Night Wrapping Mask is exactly how I want my skin to look without it: glassy, glowy, and clear. And with each overnight—yes, overnight—application of its niacinamide- and hyaluronic acid-infused formula, I get a little bit closer to that goal. I've been using it once or twice a week and never cease to be delighted by the satisfaction of peeling it away in the morning." —Dianna Singh, features director

More to know

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• What it includes: Collagen Toner (0.42 fl. oz.), Collagen Serum (0.42 fl. oz.), Collagen Cream (0.17 fl. oz.), Collagen Wrapping Mask (0.17 fl. oz.)
• Key ingredients: collagen extract, niacinamide, glycerin, hyaluronic acid
• Who it’s for: people with mature skin

The Rhode to Glazed Skin: The Rhode Kit

Rhode

The Rhode Kit

$117

Rhode

Why it's worth it: It’s hard to believe the skin-care brand started by Hailey Bieber launched just three years ago. If you’re after an uncomplicated, glow-boosting routine—or trying to impress the teen in your life—The Rhode Kit is the perfect starter kit. It includes four full-size essentials designed for all skin types, especially dry, dull, or dehydrated complexions: Pineapple Refresh cleanser, Glazing Milk essence, and two of the brand’s OG icons, the Peptide Glazing Fluid and Barrier Restore Cream. The lineup blends hydrating ingredients like peptides, ceramides, and hyaluronic acid with soothing antioxidants to help strengthen the skin barrier, smooth texture, and deliver that signature “glazed donut” finish that the founder made famous, all in a few simple steps.

More to know

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• What it includes: Pineapple Refresh (5 fl. oz.), Glazing Milk (4.2 fl. oz.), Peptide Glazing Fluid (1.7 fl. oz.), and Barrier Restore Cream (1.7 fl. oz.)
• Key ingredients: peptides, ceramides, hyaluronic acid
• Who it’s for: everyone

Sleeping Beauty: Sunday Riley Go to Bed With Me

Sunday Riley

Go to Bed With Me

$93

Nordstrom

$93

Dermstore

$93

Ulta Beauty

Lee applying the Good Genes All-in-One Lactic Acid Treatment

Christa Joanna Lee

Why it's worth it: Not much has changed since we learned that everyone is obsessed with Sunday Riley a few years ago. Rather than flooding the market with dozens of so-so formulas every other month, the brand keeps things tight—fewer products, stronger efficacy—which is why just about every launch becomes an instant hit. The Go to Bed With Me Complete Evening Routine Set includes seven of Sunday Riley’s hero products for a complete nighttime ritual (read: retinol). They’ll find icons like Good Genes Lactic Acid Treatment for glowing, smoother skin and Luna Sleeping Night Oil, packed with retinol and blue tansy to refine texture and treat dark spots overnight. With hydrating, barrier-strengthening picks like Ice Ceramide Moisturizing Cream and Ceramic Slip Cleanser, this set is for anyone chasing brighter, more even, and healthier-looking skin.

Tester feedback on Sunday Riley’s Good Genes All-in-One Lactic Acid Treatment from Lee

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“I have pretty sensitive skin, and this lactic acid treatment is one of the few exfoliants that never freaks it out—it’s so gentle. No peeling, no flaking, no scary ‘purge’ phase; just smoother, glowier skin that actually feels hydrated after. If I could only choose one product to have an endless stock of, it would be this.” —Lee, contributing commerce writer

More to know

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• What it includes: Pink Drink Firming Resurfacing Essence (0.3 fl. oz.), Ice Ceramide Moisturizing Cream (0.5 fl. oz.), Ceramic Slip Cleanser (1 fl. oz.), Good Genes All-in-One Lactic Acid Treatment (0.5 fl. oz.), A+ High-Dose Retinoid Serum (0.5 fl. oz.), Luna Sleeping Night Oil (0.34 fl. oz.), 5 Stars Eye Serum (0.27 fl. oz.)
• Key ingredients: peptides, ceramides, lactic acid, retinol
• Who it’s for: people with mature skin

Thrice as Nice: SkinFix Acne+ Triple Threat Set

SkinFix

Acne+ Triple Threat Set

$30

Sephora

$30

Kohl's

Pai applying SkinFix Barrier+ Restoring Gel Cream

Deanna Pai

Why it's worth it: Some brands chase trends, but SkinFix focuses on creating solutions for what skin actually needs. And if one of those needs is fighting acne, the Acne+ Triple Threat Set has them covered. This three-step routine includes a 2% BHA Cleanser to unclog pores and smooth texture, an Adapinoid Gel (a retinoid-like treatment) to target blemishes and support cell turnover, and a Skin Barrier Restoring Gel Cream to calm and hydrate without clogging pores. Together, they tackle breakouts, blackheads, and post-acne marks while helping maintain a healthy barrier. It’s ideal for people with oily, acne-prone, or combination skin that needs results and a little TLC.

Tester feedback on SkinFix’s Barrier+ Restoring Gel Cream from Pai

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"I've never had a pregnancy glow—just a whole lot of hormonal acne on top of my usual day-to-day breakouts. And this time, it hit just as the weather was getting chilly, which means that I need to balance coddling dry areas, like my cheeks, and addressing trouble spots on my chin and jawline. This stuff has yet to steer me wrong. Unlike a lot of other lightweight moisturizers, it's cushiony and leaves my skin soft, but not shiny. And it's more gel than cream, which gives it an especially nourishing feel." —Deanna Pai, contributing commerce editor

More to know

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• What it includes: 2% BHA Cleanser (1 fl. oz.), Adapinoid Gel (0.23 fl. oz.), Skin Barrier Restoring Gel Cream (0.5 fl. oz.)
• Key ingredients: salicylic acid,
• Who it’s for: people with acne-prone or oily skin

Why You So Obsessed With Me?: e.l.f. Cosmetics Best & Obsessed Skincare Kit

E.L.F. Cosmetics

Best & Obsessed Skincare Kit

$25

Amazon

$25

Walmart

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

Why it's worth it: In recent years, e.l.f. has gone full-on viral again thanks to formulas that perform like luxury but cost less than your latte. You can’t scroll BeautyTok for more than five seconds without spotting someone slathering, tapping, or glazing on something from the Best & Obsessed Skincare Kit. It features five fan-favorite essentials that blend skin care and glow-inducing makeup: Makeup Melting Cleansing Balm, Bronzing Drops, Thirst Burst Drops, Vitamin C + E + Ferulic Acid Serum, and Suntouchable Whoa Glow SPF 30 (a tinted chemical sunscreen). For skin that’s dull, dry, or uneven, this lineup delivers everything they need to cleanse, brighten, hydrate, and protect. It won’t take long to see why everyone is—yep—completely obsessed.

Tester feedback of e.l.f.’s Holy Hydration! Thirst Burst Drops from commerce editor Sarah Han

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

More to know

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• What it includes: Makeup Melting Cleansing Balm (0.45 fl. oz.), Bronzing Drops (0.33 fl. oz.), Thirst Burst Drops (0.33 fl. oz.), Vitamin C + E + Ferulic Acid Serum (0.5 fl. oz.), Suntouchable Whoa Glow SPF 30 (0.33 fl. oz.)
• Key ingredients: vitamin C, hibiscus complex, sunflower seed oil, hyaluronic acid, squalane
• Who it’s for: everyone, especially those with dry skin

Eau So Hydrated: La Roche-Posay Facial Hydration Heroes

La Roche-Posay

Facial Hydration Heroes

$50

Amazon

Why it's worth it: It all started in a tiny French town called La Roche-Posay, where a mineral-rich thermal spring earned a reputation for calming even the most sensitive skin (long before “skin barrier” was a buzzword). That same water is still at the core of all their products today. Their Facial Hydration Heroes Kit includes the Toleriane Hydrating Gentle Cleanser, a milky face wash that cleanses while supporting sensitive skin. Plus, you’ll find the Hyalu B5 Serum—powered by two kinds of pure hyaluronic acid, vitamin B5, and madecassoside to plump and repair. And to complete the minimalist routine, there’s the Toleriane Double Repair Face Moisturizer, which is rich in ceramides and niacinamide to strengthen, hydrate, and soothe fragile skin.

More to know

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• What it includes: Toleriane Hydrating Gentle Cleanser (1.69 fl. oz.), Hyalu B5 Serum (1 fl. oz.), Toleriane Double Repair Face Moisturizer (1.35 fl. oz.)
• Key ingredients:
• Who it’s for: everyone, especially those with sensitive skin

Frequently Asked Questions

Meet the experts

• Kristina Collins, MD, a double board-certified dermatologist based in Austin
• Dendy Engleman, MD, is a board-certified dermatologist based in New York City

How we test and review products

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

For our list of the best skin-care gift sets, we considered each product's performance across five primary categories: product ingredients and efficacy, packaging, fragrance, texture, and product wear. Every product was determined to have excelled in each category by our editorial team of in-house writers and editors, as well as contributors, along with special consideration from dermatologists. To learn more about our reporting and testing processes, read our complete reviews process and methodology page.

Our staff and testers

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Watch Biles's full video below:

TikTok content

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

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

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

Our Top Moisturizing Body Washes

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

Frequently Asked QuestionsAccordionItemContainerButtonLargeChevron

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

Best Overall: Osea Undaria Algae Body Wash

Osea

Undaria Algae Body Wash

$32

Osea

$32

Amazon

$32

Nordstrom

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

Tester feedback from commerce editor Sarah Han

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

More to know

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

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

Kiehl's

Oil-to-Foam Cleanser

$35

Kiehl's

$35

Ulta Beauty

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

Tester feedback from contributing commerce editor Deanna Pai

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

More to know

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

Best for Body Acne: Nécessaire The Body Wash

Nécessaire

The Body Wash

$28

Amazon

$28

Nordstrom

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

Tester feedback from former commerce writer Jen Hussein

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

More to know

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

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

Soft Services

Comfort Cleanse Ultra Soothing Shower Gel

$32

Sephora

$32

Soft Services

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

Tester feedback from designer Briana Rengifo

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

More to know

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

Best Drugstore: Olay Super Serum Body Wash

Olay

Super Serum Body Wash

$13

Amazon

$13

Walmart

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

Tester feedback from social media director Kassidy Silva

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

More to know

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

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

La Roche-Posay

Lipikar AP Moisturizing Body & Face Wash

$20

Amazon

$20

Dermstore

$22

Ulta Beauty

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

Tester feedback from executive beauty director Jenny Bailly

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

More to know

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

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

L'Occitane

Almond Shower Oil

$29

Nordstrom

$29

Ulta Beauty

$29

Sephora

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

Tester feedback from commerce writer Lily Wohlner

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

More to know

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

Best Exfoliating: Beekman 1802 Goat Milk Hand & Body Wash

Beekman 1802

Goat Milk Hand & Body Wash

$22

Amazon

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

More to know

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

Frequently Asked Questions

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

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

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

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

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

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

Meet the experts

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

How we test and review products

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

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

Our staff and testers

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

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

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Millie Bobby Brown is over the constant conversation and criticism around her hair and makeup choices.

In early 2025, headlines blared that the Stranger Things star looked “old” and had possibly had plastic surgery, and the 21-year-old actor responded to all the conversation by calling the publications and writers out by name. “I started in this industry when I was 10 years old," she wrote on Instagram at the time. "I grew up in front of the world, and for some reason, people can’t seem to grow with me,” she said her post. “Instead, they act like … I should still look the way I did on Stranger Things season one. And because I don’t, I’m now a target.”

Now, Brown is revisiting that conversation in a new interview with British Vogue. The star knows that being perceived is part of the job, but bristles at some of the coverage given to a young woman who is having fun with beauty and figuring out who she is. "I understand that there’s paparazzi, even though it’s invasive, even though it feels like sh*t to me–I know that’s your job,” she shared. "But don’t, in your headline, slam me at the get-go. It is so wrong and it is bullying, especially to young girls who are new to this industry and are already questioning everything about it.”

According to Brown, the headlines regarding her ‘90s-inspired blonde hair and glam from the The Electric State press tour really hurt her feelings. “I was depressed for three, four days. I was crying every day,” she told British Vogue, adding that she was crying in the glam chair before presenting an award to Sabrina Carpenter at the Brit Awards. (Carpenter gave her a hug and told her to “F**k ’em!")

But today, she's feeling much more confident in her beauty experimentation and isn't afraid to call people out. “If me being blonde or wearing more make-up really bothers you, I’m going to address it—not just for myself, but for every other girl who wants to try a new hairstyle or wear a red lip,” Brown shared. “It’s, like, get off my f***ing case, you know? I am 21. I am going to have fun and play and be myself.”

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

Face oils get a bad rap for being greasy, pore-clogging, or only useful if you’re chasing a temporary glow, but the best face oils have come a long way. “A face oil primarily helps seal in hydration and reinforce your skin’s natural moisture barrier,” says Whitney Hovenic, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in Reno, Nevada. Because they’re made of lipids (not water), they lock in moisture rather than delivering active, water-based ingredients like serums do.

That’s also why facial oils are almost always the final step in your routine, “since they’re formulated to sit on top of the skin,” adds Corey L. Hartman, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in Birmingham, AL, which helps seal in everything underneath and prevent moisture loss—key for anyone dealing with dryness and flaking. And here’s the surprising part: They’re far more versatile than people think. Even oily, acne-prone, or combination skin types can use face oils, says Dr. Hartman. Just stick to non-comedogenic options like squalane or jojoba and apply only a few drops as your last step.

Our Top Face Oils

• Best Overall: Summer Fridays Heavenly Sixteen All-In-One Face Oil, $55
• Best for Sensitive Skin: Elemis Superfood Face Oil, $69
• Best Luxe: La Mer The Renewal Oil, $150
• Best Drugstore: CeraVe Skin Renewing Gel Oil, $26
• Best for Oily Skin: Ole Henriksen HydraBarrier Nourishing Peptide Face Oil, $58
• Best for Mature Skin: Kiehl's Midnight Recovery Concentrate, $84
• Best for Acne-Prone Skin: Sunday Riley Luna Retinol Sleeping Oil, $55
• Best for Barrier Repair: Byoma Hydrating Recovery Oil, $19

Frequently Asked QuestionsAccordionItemContainerButtonLargeChevron

• Will face oils make me break out?
• Can face oils be anti-aging?
• Meet the experts
• How we test and review products
• Our staff and testers

Ahead, we rounded up the best face oils for every skin type and concern, from lightweight, non-comedogenic oils for breakout-prone skin to deeply nourishing blends that bring dull, mature skin back to life.

Best Overall: Summer Fridays Heavenly Sixteen All-In-One Face Oil

Summer Fridays

Heavenly Sixteen All-In-One Face Oil

$55

Amazon

$55

Revolve

$55

Sephora

Why it's worth it: Some face oils are just about surface-level sheen, but Summer Fridays’ Heavenly Sixteen All-In-One Face Oil does more than give that coveted glow. It pairs it with real skin benefits (think moisture retention, barrier support, and a subtle plumping effect) thanks to a blend of 16 oils, including sunflower, meadowfoam, pomegranate, sacha inchi, prickly pear, and hemp seed. Together, they “offer deep hydration and a more radiant, even-toned complexion,” says Dr. Hartman. We chose it as our overall pick because it feels luxe but still plays well with every skin type (yes, even oily and acne-prone), thanks to its non-comedogenic formula and surprisingly fast absorption.

Allure senior commerce editor Sarah Felbin applying the Summer Fridays Heavenly Sixteen All-In-One Face Oil

Sarah Felbin

Felbin after applying the Summer Fridays Heavenly Sixteen All-In-One Face Oil

Sarah Felbin

Tester feedback from senior commerce editor Sarah Felbin

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“I was super-skeptical of face oils before I tried this one. My skin is naturally pretty oily, so I wasn't sure if an oil would add anything to my skin-care routine, but this one from Summer Fridays changed the game for me. It's thin and lightweight, but also incredibly moisturizing. It doesn't feel too thick or sticky and gives my skin a healthy glow without making me look greasy. I love that I can use it alone on top of my skin care or mix a drop into my moisturizer—both methods have helped heal the always-dry patches around my nose.” —Sarah Felbin, senior commerce editor

More to know

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• Key ingredients: prickly pear seed oil, sacha inchi seed oil, pomegranate seed oil
• Fragrance-free: yes

Best for Sensitive Skin: Elemis Superfood Face Oil

Elemis

Superfood Face Oil

$72

Elemis

Why it's worth it: It’s fitting that a brand with deep spa roots would create a face oil that basically works like a green smoothie for your skin. Elemis Superfood Facial Oil—a 2025 Best of Beauty Award winner—takes that “daily dose of greens” idea literally, packing in a blend of nourishing plant oils that feed, cushion, and revive dry or lackluster skin. The formula leans on flaxseed oil, which is “rich in omega-3 fatty acids that strengthen the skin barrier and keep it hydrated,” says Omer Ibrahim, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in Chicago. Sweet almond oil “locks in moisture and supports repair thanks to its naturally high vitamin E content,” while daikon radish and broccoli seed oil bring lightweight slip and a silky, fast-absorbing finish, so you get glow without grease, says Dr. Ibrahim.

Allure contributing commerce writer Christa Joanna Lee applying the Elemis Superfood Face Oil

Christa Joanna Lee

Lee after applying the Elemis Superfood Face Oil

Christa Joanna Lee

Tester feedback from contributing commerce writer Christa Joanna Lee

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“After a few weeks of using this oil once or twice daily, some of my dullness had faded, my complexion looked brighter and more even, and those pesky dry patches around my nose and chin finally calmed down. The biggest change, though, is waking up with plump, bouncy skin that has that just-had-a-facial glow. Elemis’s Superfood Hydrating Nourishing Facial Oil has quickly become one of those rare finds that does it all: It feels luxe, smells fresh, and offers easy results. If you’ve avoided face oils because of the grease factor, this one’s the perfect entry point.” —Christa Joanna Lee, contributing commerce writer

More to know

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• Key ingredients: sweet almond oil, flaxseed oil, daikon radish, broccoli seed oil, squalane
• Fragrance-free: no

Best Luxe: La Mer The Renewal Oil

La Mer

The Renewal Oil

$295

Nordstrom

$295

Bluemercury

$295

Sephora

Why it's worth it: It’s hard to talk about La Mer without talking about the Miracle Broth—the legendary fermented blend of sea kelp, vitamins, and minerals that began as a healing experiment by an aerospace physicist and went on to power one of the most famous face creams in the world. If you love the story (and the results) but want something silkier and even more hydrating than the cream, try a few drops of The Renewal Oil. It’s formulated with that same iconic broth in a lightweight, skin-soaking oil that nourishes, softens, and smooths mature or seriously parched skin. Along with Miracle Broth, the oil features the brand’s Infinity Oil Complex—a cushiony mix of meadowfoam seed, sweet almond, and jojoba oils for deep, long-lasting suppleness—plus peptides to help support firmness over time. Since it’s a dual-phase formula, give the bottle a quick shake first to blend the oils, so you get the full benefits from each drop.

Allure social director Kassidy Silva applying the La Mer The Renewal Oil

Kassidy Silva

Silva after applying the La Mer The Renewal Oil

Kassidy Silva

Tester feedback from social director Kassidy Silva

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“The La Mer Renewal Oil is the 60 seconds of luxury that every mom deserves in their skin-care routine. My skin looks instantly brighter after just three drops. I apply it in the mornings when I wake up exceptionally dry in the winter months, or anytime my skin needs a luminous boost.” —Kassidy Silva, social director

More to know

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• Key ingredients: Miracle Broth (sea kelp, vitamins, minerals), Infinity Oil Complex (including meadowfoam seed oil, sweet almond oil, jojoba seed oil), peptides
• Fragrance-free: no

Best Drugstore: CeraVe Skin Renewing Gel Oil

CeraVe

Skin Renewing Gel Oil

$26

Amazon

$26

Ulta Beauty

Why it's worth it: If you love the idea of a face oil but hate the greasy, slippery feeling most of them leave behind, CeraVe’s Skin Renewing Gel Oil is the happy middle ground. Its gel-to-oil texture feels weightless when applied, but still delivers the comforting, cushiony hydration you expect from an oil. The formula blends skin-softening glycerin for moisture with five ceramides, cholesterol, and hyaluronic acid crosspolymer to help strengthen the skin barrier. You’ll also find antioxidant-rich sunflower extract, rosemary leaf extract, and rice bran extract for extra soothing support. “People don’t realize there’s a prescription-only product with similar ceramide levels. CeraVe offers the same benefits at a way more affordable price point,” says Tanya Kormeili, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in Santa Monica.

More to know

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• Key ingredients: glycerin, hyaluronic acid, sunflower extract
• Fragrance-free: yes

Best for Oily Skin: Ole Henriksen HydraBarrier Nourishing Peptide Face Oil

Ole Henriksen

HydraBarrier Nourishing Peptide Face Oil

$58

Ulta Beauty

$58

Revolve

$58

Sephora

Why it's worth it: Oh, you thought having oily skin meant face oils were off-limits? Plot twist: Excess sebum is often due to dehydrated skin trying to make up for the lack of moisture—so the right oil can actually rebalance things instead of making you shinier. That’s where Ole Henriksen HydraBarrier Nourishing Peptide Face Oil, a 2023 Best of Beauty Award winner, comes in, as a lightweight formula that works for all skin types, even the slick ones. Its foundation is a trio of oil-soluble peptides, “which improve skin function and support elasticity,” says Justine H. Park, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in Westlake Village, CA. They’re paired with Scandinavian berry oils (cloudberry, lingonberry, and elderberry), packed with antioxidants and omega fatty acids for deep moisture without the heaviness. Ceramides help skin hold onto hydration, while “squalane and vitamin E further soften the skin,” adds Dr. Park.

More to know

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• Key ingredients: peptides, cloudberry oil, lingonberry oil, elderberry oil, ceramides, squalane, vitamin E
• Fragrance-free: no

Best for Mature Skin: Kiehl's Midnight Recovery Concentrate

Kiehl's

Midnight Recovery Concentrate

$140

Amazon

$140

Nordstrom

Why it's worth it: Kiehl’s Midnight Recovery Concentrate doesn’t contain retinol or other actives that make your skin sun-sensitive, but you’ll still look forward to using this specifically as part of your p.m. routine. The lightweight lavender scent gives it a built-in wind-down moment, and the formula works in sync with your skin’s natural overnight repair cycle. A blend of nourishing, non-greasy oils, including evening primrose and rosehip, helps soften fine lines and replenish lost moisture while you sleep. By morning, skin feels smoother and looks more refreshed, with a little extra bounce, especially if you’re dealing with dryness or visible signs of aging.

More to know

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• Key ingredients: lavender oil, evening primrose oil, rose oil, squalane, jojoba seed oil
• Fragrance-free: yes

Best for Acne-Prone Skin: Sunday Riley Luna Retinol Sleeping Oil

Sunday Riley

Luna Sleeping Retinoid Night Oil

$105

Amazon

$105

Nordstrom

$105

Ulta Beauty

Why it's worth it: Now, if you’re looking for a retinol-based product to tackle everything from breakouts to signs of aging, there’s a reason nearly every Allure editor has had this signature blue bottle of Sunday Riley Luna Retinol Sleeping Oil on their vanity at some point. Luna uses a retinoid ester (a gentler, oil-soluble form of retinoid) to help smooth fine lines, even tone, and—our favorite benefit—keep acne-prone skin in check by regulating oil production and speeding up cell turnover. “Retinol is a must for anyone with blemish-prone skin, and this lightweight oil makes it easy to apply without irritation,” says Dr. Hartman. It’s also buffered with blue tansy and chamomile to calm redness and chia and blackberry seed oils to soften skin overnight.

More to know

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• Key ingredients: retinoid ester, blue tansy, chamomile, chia seed oil, blackberry seed oil
• Fragrance-free: yes

Best for Barrier Repair: Byoma Hydrating Recovery Oil

Byoma

Hydrating Recovery Oil

$19 $18 (5% off)

Amazon

$19

Ulta Beauty

Why it's worth it: If your skin ever feels tight, flaky, or reactive, that’s usually a sign your skin barrier needs a little repair work. Byoma Hydrating Recovery Oil. It uses a proprietary Barrier Lipid Complex to replenish the fats your skin naturally loses, while squalane teams up with eight antioxidant-rich botanical oils (including jojoba, rosehip, sunflower, and sea buckthorn) to restore moisture and balance without leaving a greasy film.“I love this oil because it’s lightweight yet incredibly nourishing. It strengthens and hydrates the skin while giving that dewy, healthy look,” says Whitney Hovenic, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in Reno, Nevada.

More to know

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• Key ingredients: squalane, jojoba oil, seabuckthorn oil
• Fragrance-free: yes

Frequently Asked Questions

Will face oils make me break out?

Contrary to what people believe, the best oils don’t automatically cause breakouts. “There are non-comedogenic face oils that use oils that do not clog pores, and if you have acne-prone skin, I only recommend using those,” says Dr. Hartman. If your skin is oily or breakout-prone, Dr. Hartman suggests easing in slowly: “Start with applying a face oil once a week and increase if desired.” And if you’re already dealing with active acne, check with your dermatologist, who can help assess the right way to use face oil in your routine.

Can people with mature skin use face oils?

“Many face oils are rich in antioxidants, fatty acids, and vitamins that help support collagen and protect against environmental damage,” says Dr. Hovenic. She recommends looking for oils like rosehip (packed with vitamins A and C), argan (a great source of vitamin E), and marula or sea buckthorn (loaded with omega fatty acids), all of which can help smooth fine lines, boost elasticity, and give mature skin a healthier, more radiant glow. Face oils also work well alongside traditional anti-aging actives: “They pair well with ingredients like retinol by providing hydration and helping avoid irritation that can happen with retinol use,” she adds.

Meet the experts

• Corey L. Hartman, MD, a board-certified dermatologist and founder of Skin Wellness Dermatology, based in Birmingham, AL
• Whitney Hovenic, MD, a board-certified dermatologist and co-founder of Spooge based in Reno, Nevada
• Omer Ibrahim, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in Chicago
• Tanya Kormeili, MD, a board-certified dermatologist and founder of Derm & Rejuvenation Institute, based in Santa Monica
• Justine H. Park, MD, a board-certified dermatologist of the Skin & Beauty Center based in Westlake Village, CA

How we test and review products

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

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

Our staff and testers

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

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

Source images: Courtesy of @sansungnails, @nailartbyqueenieSave StorySave this storySave StorySave this story

I hate long nail appointments. I get restless when sitting for extended periods with nothing to do. (I can’t even scroll on my phone!) That’s why I have typically avoided nail art unless it was for a special occasion—that is, until I discovered velvet nails. Velvet nails mimic the fuzzy texture of your favorite holiday dress, but with an added touch of sparkle.

Velvet nails always come back during the holiday season, but this year, the look is making its rounds early. It’s easy to see why: "The effect is magical," says Hannah Lee, a nail artist in Atlanta. “The way the light plays off the magnet-activated texture gives them a depth that feels modern and refined.” It’s also easy to combine with other nail trends for a look that has a bit more impact.

Another reason this manicure’s popularity might be rising now is the impending recession. Even some of us Allure editors have found ourselves opting out of “tier-three” (intricate) nail art looks for financial reasons. An allover velvet manicure is usually classified as “tier one” (simple) at salons, even if the effect is as eye-catching as a tier-three look.

For context, in a major city like New York, detailed nail art can run you about $14 per nail, on top of the $150 price for a basic gel manicure with nail extensions. At Art Nail NYC, where I got my first allover velvet set, the mani was considerably more affordable (and less time-consuming) because it was classified as a simple design.

You’ll likely hear people call these cat-eye nails. They’re not wrong; the way we see it, though, all cat-eye nails are velvet, but not all velvet nails are cat-eye. The distinction is in how the shimmering magnetic particles are dispersed. The particles in cat-eye nails usually form a straight or diagonal line (mimicking the look of a cat’s eye), while the particles in velvet nails can be spread out uniformly or in patterns like hearts and swirls.

Courtesy of @sabletoothtigerCourtesy of @heygreatnailsThe modern velvet manicure

According to Eunice Park, brand development and education director at Aprés Nail, velvet nails now look very different than those of the past. “When I was in nail school in 2015, the magnetic particles were a lot chunkier and were against a black base,” she explains, noting that the finished look was always dark. “You’d see black with emerald green or dark purple glitter.”

Magnetic polish formulas needed a black base for the glitter particles to appear shinier, Park continues. Now, brands are formulating velvet polishes with finer magnetic particles (so there are more of them), so the glitter appears softer and more subtle—but with just as much shine. “I think that's what's extending the velvet nail-trend's life,” she says. “You're getting all these different variants of the look.”

In addition to more sophisticated nail polish formulas, we’re seeing manicurists get more creative with their art. They have been pairing the velvet finish with “chrome, subtle jewels, or artistic sculptural,” says Lupita Alonso, a nail artist in Stone Park, Illinois. We’ve also seen it with heart motifs and manipulated into ombré designs. “These details make it look more updated and modern.”

How to create velvet nails

Sure, the appointment can be shorter than other nail art appointments, but I understand if you still want to skip the salon trip completely and DIY your velvet nails. You’ll need a few things, though, like a base coat, topcoat, magnetic nail polish, and a magnetic wand. (Mooncat sells the magnetic wand on its own, but will include one for free if your order includes a magnetic polish.)

First, coat your nails with a base polish before applying a magnetic polish. Then, use a magnet to disperse the shimmery particles across the nail to create that glistening velvet effect. Holding the magnet at the tip or side of the nail creates the velvet effect, while holding it above the nail's center drags the particles into a straight line for the traditional cat-eye look.

If you're not ready to wield a magnetic wand, Bana Jarjour, a Los Angeles-based nail artist, suggests trying gel nail strips. (Note: This method does require you have an LED lamp.) She recommends the Dashing Diva Glaze strips, which come pre-painted with a velvet design. All you need to do is apply the adhesive strip to your nail, cut it to your desired length, cure it with an LED lamp, and file it into the shape you want. We also recommend press-ons; Static Nails has a velvet press-on set that will give you a salon-level manicure in seconds.

Looking for inspiration? Scroll for some of the prettiest velvet nail ideas, including looks that are simple enough to do at home and works of art you might want a professional to help create.

Velvet Nails Inspiration

Plaid velvet nailsCourtesy of @nailartbyqueenieVelvet polka-dot nailsCourtesy of @nailartbyqueenieSheer velvet nailsCourtesy of @overgloweditVelvet frame nailsCourtesy of @nailartbyqueenieCourtesy of @nailsbyshirlecropVelvet French nailsCourtesy of @gracielanailsCourtesy of @nailartbyqueenieOmbré velvet nailsCourtesy of @nailartbyqueenieGreen-and-black velvet nailsCourtesy of @sofiamiroslavanailsCourtesy of @nailsbyshaniVelvet amethyst frame nailsInstagram / @heygreatnailsVelvet nails with 3D embellishmentsCourtesy of @sansungnailsCourtesy of @sansungnailsVelvet aura nailsCourtesy of @sansungnailsChrome velvet nailsCourtesy of @sansungnailsInstagram / @nailartbyqueenie