Category: HEALTHY-NUTRITION

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Long before we were all talking about Barbie blush, before Olandria and some Real Housewives went viral for their draped flushes, Ngozi Esther Edeme (a.k.a. Painted By Esther) was posting her work online, laying the foundation for her reputation as bold blush’s most fearless champion.

Seven years ago, she tweeted a short clip of her applying makeup on a Black woman, alongside the caption: "Posting this because I want brown / Darkskin gurlz to see how blush hugs & balances our skin tone / our features. Cream blush to map out, powder blush to set. Blush was made for us." She had been doing this for years before anyone started paying attention, practicing on herself first, then on models she met at university. She’d share the results online and watch them go viral because, as she puts it, "people had never seen Black women look like that."

That 2019 post resurfaced recently as the public debated whether she has the right to be upset that her approach to layering cream and powder blush for a seamless, blurred finish appears to have been the inspiration for another brand's new launch. Blush draping is not a new technique, and Edeme is the first to acknowledge the artists who came before her. But bringing the look back, recentering the conversation on dark skin, and turning rosy cheeks into a cultural conversation? That’s all Painted By Esther.

When, in late May 2026, Patrick Ta launched his Transition Blush collection—a cream blush, powder palette, and dual-ended brush built around a three-step technique for blending color from the undereye into the cheek—beauty fans of the internet were quick to call out the similarities between his marketing materials and Edeme's work. Everything from the language Ta used to describe the system, the formula, and the placement tracked closely with what Esther had been demonstrating publicly in her workshops and online. A side-by-side comparison went viral, showing Ta using some of her exact wording. Ta eventually updated the caption on his launch announcement video, calling Edeme "amazing and so talented" and acknowledging the role she played in popularizing the look, while also claiming he had been doing his own version since 2021. (Ta has also been known for his love of blush; his Major Headlines Double Take Crème & Powder Blush Duo, which launched in 2020, is a bestseller for the brand. Allure reached out to Ta’s team for further comment, but has not heard back.)

For Edeme, none of this is surprising. "They're trying to rewrite history," she says. But her digital trail proves years of posts that document exactly how long she has been developing and sharing her method.

Edeme is careful to credit the lineage her work draws from: Kevyn Aucoin's Making Faces, and the work of Sam Fine and Danessa Myricks, two artists she studied obsessively. "If it wasn't for the artists that came before me, I would not be here, period," she insists. It is worth stressing that she has never claimed to have invented the foundational makeup technique that is transition shading. This type of blush application has long been part of makeup artistry, championed by greats like Way Bandy (in the 1970s and ‘80s) and Aucoin (in the 1980s and ‘90s). What makes her approach distinct isn’t the undereye blending itself but the boldness and unapologetic commitment to high-pigment color, applied generously. While editorial makeup of the 2010s framed blush as something to be used sparingly and softly, Edeme goes all the way in.

She normalized that bold approach, specifically on dark-skinned Black women at a time when the dominant beauty conversation was moving in precisely the opposite direction. And her aesthetic has become widely referenced, replicated, and reinterpreted across the beauty industry. "I just have a natural gift for looking at someone and knowing exactly where they should take it," Edeme explains.

Where another artist might arrive with a fixed technique, Edeme comes ready to customize her approach for whoever is sitting in front of her and is intentional about translating their energy and personality onto their face. Her work with Chloe Bailey, a regular collaborator who gives her full creative freedom, is a perfect example. Knowing how whimsical the multihyphenate is, Edeme wants exactly that energy reflected back. The results are some of the most playful, otherworldly makeup looks Bailey has worn.

Edeme has had a fascination with cheekbones long before she was Painted By Esther. She grew up collecting Bratz dolls and describes studying their faces with the seriousness of someone already learning a craft. "They're heart-shaped, they have beautiful cheekbones," she says, "and everything just sits nicely. It always made sense to me that everything would sit here." She trained as a portrait artist and learned to read a face the way a painter does, as something you build from scratch, customize, and celebrate in its specific geometry.

"Our skin is the most beautiful skin. I've always just wanted to elevate it and amplify it."

When she turned that eye toward Black women, Edeme saw a canvas the industry had persistently undervalued. "Our skin is the most beautiful skin," she says. "I've always just wanted to elevate it and amplify it." In response, she would seek out dark-skinned Black women and build looks around them: high-pigment blush in hot pinks, corals, and berries, colors the beauty industry had long insisted didn't work on dark skin. "I've always wanted to just give us the platform that we are absolutely gorgeous," she says. "That is my baseline."

By the time Edeme was in college, saving money to order Melanie Mills Glow products from LA, the foundations of her approach were already in place: skin first always, then color placed where it would do the most to accentuate features. "Everything just naturally sits here anyway," she says. "I practiced on myself first." She developed the three-step process for blush: cream to map, powder to set, a final layer of translucent setting powder to build intensity. Her client roster speaks for itself: Raye, SZA, Viola Davis, Kelly Rowland, and Adut Akech, to name a few.

Edeme's influence has reached farther than she could have imagined. She describes watching a video recently of a young Black woman applying bold blush and crediting Esther with giving her the confidence to do so, after years of being told the look made her appear clownish. "She fully credited that to me," Edeme says. "I just started crying." The woman in the video had decided she liked it and kept doing it, regardless of what anyone said. For Edeme, that’s the whole point.

Just like Edeme, who moved from Nigeria to the UK when she was younger, I moved from Ghana to a city in the UK, where my brother and I were the only Black kids in school. I was made to feel ugly, and I didn’t fit in. When I started teaching myself to apply makeup at 17, blush felt like a risk; something that would draw attention to a face I had already been told wasn't good enough. I wore it tentatively at first, then with more conviction. Now, I'm proud to be known for my blush blindness.

Mine is the story of so many Black women, which perhaps explains why, when the controversy broke, so many of us rose up to defend her. Edeme's influence on beauty culture has given us so much to protect.

There is a strange final stage to influence when something you popularize becomes so well-known that it's bigger than you. Edeme is careful to stress that influencers play an important role in introducing looks to new audiences, but she hopes that the industry becomes as quick to celebrate the artists who create as it is to celebrate those who spread. At the end of the day, recognition isn't just a nicety. It's how we make sure the people shaping beauty's visual language are credited (and, ideally, compensated) for their work.

This week, many people have posted in support of Edeme, often without mentioning the ongoing discourse at all: Creators have been sharing videos of themselves “trying Painted by Esther’s iconic blush technique,” and MAC Cosmetics published a shoot featuring Olandria wearing the brand’s blush alongside makeup tips from Edeme. Overall, Edeme does feel like the industry, including mainstream media outlets, has done a decent job in giving her her flowers. She adds, however, with characteristic directness: "I think they could do better."

In the meantime, she’s getting on with it. "My mission before I leave this earth is to spread my gifts," she says. She describes her goals for what’s next with the same unhurried confidence that seems to animate everything she does: workshops that feel like a party, complete with cocktails and a community of women learning together and lifting each other up. In time, she’d love the role of creative director at a brand. For now though, Edeme’s off to Jamaica this week to shoot a music video. She is booked, busy, and at a level where she can skate a little and really enjoy her work.

Beyond blush and any controversy, it has always been about women being seen, celebrated, and taking up space in an industry that has historically asked them to make themselves smaller—something Edeme never did. "I've always been willing to help," she says. The receipts go all the way back, and the work speaks for itself.

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Rosie O'Donnell got a facelift—and she has some thoughts to share.

The comedian and actor revealed this week that she had a lower deep-plane facelift in January, sharing her complicated feelings on Substack in her now-signature poetic style. In the post, titled “decisions,” O'Donnell wrote that she had always sworn she'd never go under the knife. After losing 50 pounds, she changed her mind.

“I used to feel very strongly about facelifts,” O'Donnell wrote. “Not casually—morally. I had assigned myself as head of all women who would never ever.” She went on to say that getting a facelift felt like a “betrayal” of feminism and aging, even of “our team of women worldwide.” But after her weight loss, O'Donnell said her face changed to a point that “I'd look in the mirror and think – this isn't aging, this is melting with intention.” She tried to accept it, and couldn't: “There's a point where acceptance starts to feel like lying.”

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O'Donnell's 13-year-old child, Clay, found out that she was contemplating a facelift and had their their own thoughts, saying O'Donnell “earned” her wrinkles and that young women look up to her. What kind of message would she be sending about aging and acceptance if she got plastic surgery? And then this: “‘I wouldn’t be able to respect you if you did it.’” (“That's a big statement from someone who still needs you to open jars.”) According to O'Donnell, Clay sounded “exactly like me. Like my younger, more certain, more morally rigid self had somehow moved into my house and was now judging my face.”

O'Donnell sat for a few months with the idea of getting a facelift, then realized that not doing would also send her child a message. “If I’m teaching Clay anything, it can’t be that my body belongs to an idea either,” she wrote. “Even a good idea. Even feminism. Because that’s still not freedom—that’s just a different authority telling you what you’re allowed to do with your own face.” Her words echo those of Allure contributor Joan Kron, who said of her three facelifts: “The feminist line is, 'We've earned these wrinkles. We don't want to erase them.' Well, I’m a feminist, but I don’t believe in telling people what to do with their bodies.”

About five months ago, O'Donnell had the surgery, choosing a doctor who had worked on some of her friends, “who all still looked like themselves, just like they had recently been told good news.” Her goal: “to still be me, just…less haunted. And I do look like me…a slightly more well-rested, emotionally stable version of me.” So what was the response to the results, after all that self-reflection and “a full existential feminist crisis”? O'Donnell says no one has even noticed she had work done, “not one person. Not a friend, not a stranger, not even people who owe me compliments / My teenager has not said a word.”

But O'Donnell is pleased with that. “I didn’t disappear, I didn’t become someone else. I just stopped arguing with the mirror. And maybe that’s enough. Or at the very least…it’s what a lower, deep plane face lift [sic] looks like when it minds its own business.” A day after the Substack post went live, she shared before and after photos on her Instagram.

O'Donnell joins the ranks of celebrities who have been open about their work recently. Denise Richards told Allure all about her recent facelift and even shared the actual, clinical before-and-after pics. A day after O'Donnell's post went live, Glamour published an interview with TV personality Keltie Knight in which she shared details about her own facelift. Then there's Ricki Lake, and Kathy Griffin, and of course Kris Jenner.

O'Donnell ended her post by saying that while she knows she doesn't owe anyone an explanation for her decision to have plastic surgery, she doesn't like secrets. “Part of my desire to show myself…is to come clean,” she wrote. “But who do I owe that truth to? Is it mine to keep?” She writes of feeling “almost shameful” of her “privileged place” in the world, noting that the surgery cost “more money than I have ever paid for a car.” But at 64, O'Donnell says that despite her still-conflicted feelings, she and her “new lower face and neck” are “just happy to be alive…able to feel and choose and use my voice whenever I feel called to…as we carry on in act 3.”

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Sun protection is a year-round affair, full stop. However, now that summer's here and we're fully soaking in the warm weather, it's high time (tide?) to restock our SPF supplies to ensure our skin is protected against harsh UV rays. (Because who wants to fast-track photoaging? Not us, and not you.) Luckily, Ulta Beauty has a buy-one-get-one-50%-off sale happening now through June 6, 2026, where you can mix and match over 35 brands to nail down your sun-care routine, stat. Of course, there are the tried-and-true faves such as La Roche-Posay and Supergoop, but don't sleep on K-beauty gems like Round Lab and The Crème Shop.

Take advantage of our favorite deals from Ulta Beauty's Here We Glow sale, featuring mostly sunscreens—as well as some sun-adjacent picks, such as a self-tanner and beachy fragrance—and bask in the sunshine safely! Quick note: None of the prices below reflects the BOGO 50% discount since it depends on what's in your cart. (The lower-priced item will be automatically marked half off at checkout.)

Our Top Ulta Beauty Here We Glow Deals

Don’t Play With SPFSupergoop! Play Everyday Lotion SPF 50JUMP TO PRODUCT$58

Ulta Beauty

Covered CutieLive Tinted Hueguard Skin Tint SPF 50JUMP TO PRODUCT$42

Ulta Beauty

Dewy DumplingRound Lab Birch Juice Moisturizing UVLock SPF 45JUMP TO PRODUCT$25

Ulta Beauty

Spray AwayJUMP TO PRODUCTFamily-Friendly FormulaBlue Lizard Sheer Mineral Sunscreen Lotion SPF 50+JUMP TO PRODUCT$21

Ulta Beauty

Live Tinted Hueguard Skin Tint SPF 50

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Live Tinted

Hueguard Skin Tint SPF 50

$42

Ulta Beauty

Allure commerce editor Sarah Han applying Live Tinted Hueguard Skin Tint SPF 50

Sarah Han

A tinted sunscreen that actually provides enough coverage to blur discoloration and redness? Yup, that's the Live Tinted Hueguard Skin Tint SPF 50. Available in a solid 13 shades, this formula is chock-full of nourishing ingredients, such as antioxidant-rich butterfly bush flower extract, Indian gooseberry to even out pigmentation, and hyaluronic acid and sea buckthorn oil for boosts in hydration and collagen production. Oh, and our chemical-sunscreen-loving tester (me!) gives this mineral SPF a 10/10. It's super elegant, lightweight yet buildable, and leaves a natural-matte finish. (I still have to apply some setting powder to my always-shiny forehead, as I did in the after photo below, but the skin tint definitely curbs a bit of the oiliness.)

Han before applying the Live Tinted Hueguard Skin Tint SPF 50

Sarah Han

Han after applying the Live Tinted Hueguard Skin Tint SPF 50

Sarah Han

Supergoop Play Everyday Lotion SPF 50

Allure senior beauty editor Jesa Marie Calaor applying Supergoop Play Everyday Lotion SPF 50

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Supergoop!

Play Everyday Lotion SPF 50

$58

Ulta Beauty

If the sunscreen ain't broke, don't fix it. Translation? If Supergoop's Play Everyday Lotion SPF 50 had a motto, that'd be it. This fan-favorite chemical sunscreen doesn't have a tell-tale coconut-y scent, but rather a fresh scent powered by basil, eucalyptus, orange, and wild geranium. There are plenty of soothing, skin-softening ingredients, too, such as rice bran extract, rosemary extract, and vitamin E—as well as sunflower extract for antioxidant support. Hello, dewy skin.

With this jumbo pump bottle clocking in at 18 fl. oz (or 532 ml), you're probably set for the entire summer. It's also perfect to tote to the beach to reup the whole fam's SPF.

Blue Lizard Sheer Mineral Sunscreen Lotion SPF 50+

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Blue Lizard

Sheer Mineral Sunscreen Lotion SPF 50+

$21

Ulta Beauty

Allure shopping director Shanna Shipin applying the Blue Lizard Sensitive Mineral Sunscreen SPF 50+

Shanna Shipin

The Aussies have one of the highest rates of skin cancer in the world, so of course, they know their sunscreen. Blue Lizard’s Sheer Mineral Sunscreen Lotion SPF 50+ stands out as a sensitive skin-friendly option, thanks to super-soothing aloe listed right after the UV filters. Senior commerce director Shanna Shipin calls this mineral body sunscreen the MVP of her summers. “This sunscreen can be used by everyone in my family: me with my dry skin, my daughters with their eczema-prone skin, and my husband with his extremely oily skin,” she says, adding that it feels akin to a lotion, rather than typically chalky mineral formulas. A caveat: It will leave a bit of a white cast—as par for the course for mineral sunscreens, since zinc oxide is quite literally a white powder—but it's a small price to pay for a non-irritating body SPF.

La Roche-Posay Anthelios 50 Mineral Ultra Light Sunscreen

Allure contributing commerce editor Deanna Pai applying La Roche-Posay Tinted Mineral Anthelios Light Fluid Sunscreen SPF 50

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La Roche-Posay

Anthelios 50 Mineral Ultra Light Sunscreen

$43

Ulta Beauty

It’s hard to choose just one La Roche-Posay sunscreen to feature, but one of our top picks has to be the Mineral Anthelios Light Fluid Sunscreen SPF 50. Beloved by editors and dermatologists with sensitive and oily skin alike, this 2024 Best of Beauty winner leaves your skin looking matte, but not flat, as our tester says. “I don't typically trust untinted mineral sunscreens, since they almost always leave a white cast on my olive skin,” Allure contributing commerce editor Deanna Pai says. “Not this one! It's practically perfect: It doesn't have a weird scent, absorbs quickly, and even seems to control the shine on my nose.” Bonus: It offers 40 minutes of water-resistant protection.

Round Lab Birtch Juice Moisturizing UVLock SPF 45

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Round Lab

Birch Juice Moisturizing UVLock SPF 45

$25

Ulta Beauty

Allure contributing commerce writer Christa Joanna Lee applying Round Lab Birch Moisturizing Sunscreen UVLock SPF 45

Christa Joanna Lee

We could wax poetic about Korean sunscreens for hours, but if you’re just dipping your toes into the K-beauty world—and love a dewy finish—we have the perfect candidate for you. Round Lab’s Birch Juice Moisturizing UVLock SPF 45 is “a moisturizing sunscreen that is formulated with hyaluronic acid, glycerin, and antioxidants to hydrate and soothe the skin,” Y. Claire Chang, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in New York City, previously attested. “It blends in easily and layers beautifully with other skin-care products and makeup.” It’s no wonder our editors always reach for this elegant, plumping, and brightening formula. (Plus, even at full price, it’s just $25—hard to argue with that.)

Vacation Shimmer Oil SPF 30

Han applying Vacation Shimmer Oil SPF 30 Sunscreen

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Vacation

Shimmer Oil SPF 30

$38

Ulta Beauty

Our summer beauty forecast? Sparkle and shimmer. Vacation is a brand about all things sun, and this Shimmer Oil is about all things shimmer: It has not one but two types of gold shimmer—a base layer of pearlescent glaze and larger flakes to boost the golden finish. Scent-wise, think of being perched poolside on a cabana lounger, taking in notes of coconut, banana, pool water, and swimsuit fabric. As for skin-care goodness, there’s a boatload: plumping peptides and hyaluronic acid, as well as a nourishing blend of argan, coconut, marula, and jojoba oils to lock in moisture. Shake well and glow on your way.

P.S. New to the shimmer oil lineup is a rose-gold Grande Cuvée accented with notes of amber, vanilla bean, and peach eau de vie, for a luxe, ‘je nais sais quoi’ spin on the original.

Black Girl Sunscreen Moisturizing Sunscreen Lotion SPF 30

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Black Girl Sunscreen

Moisturizing Sunscreen Lotion SPF 30

$17

Ulta

It’s 2026, and sunscreens with a white-cast-free finish on dark skin tones shouldn’t be a tall order…right? Unfortunately, brands still get it wrong, but Black Girl Sunscreen is not one of them. The Moisturizing Sunscreen Lotion SPF 30 is packed with skin-softening ingredients, such as aloe and a blend of jojoba, cacao, and avocado oils—but, more importantly, it sinks and disappears into the skin without a trace, leaving behind a sheer, weightless, and ultra-comfortable finish.

The Crème Shop x Hello Kitty Hello Sun Facial Sunscreen SPF 50

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The Crème Shop x Hello Kitty

Hello Sun Facial Sunscreen SPF 50

$18

Ulta Beauty

Who says sun care can’t be cute? Certainly not K-beauty brands like The Crème Shop, a frequent collaborator of adorable characters such as Pompompurin, Pochacco, and Miffy. With Hello Kitty as a mascot, this Hello Sun SPF is a green flag for all ages. Despite the cute packaging, the ingredient list is serious: tone-evening niacinamide, moisturizing vitamin E, and plumping sodium hyaluronate. The chemical formula also offers 80 minutes of water resistance, making it a heavy-duty formula that won’t let you down even on your sweatiest, most packed days.

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While we don't recommend sprays as your primary/base sunscreen, they do come in handy when you're out and about and want an easier way to reapply your SPF. (Because any reapplication is eons better than none!) Neutrogena's Clear Body SPF 50 is a fragrance-free, cooling, and water-resistant (up to 80 minutes) formula that feels super light, even on oily skin. The rule of thumb, according to the American Academy of Dermatology Association (AAD), is to hold the nozzle close to your skin and spray until your skin glistens (approximately four back-and-forth passes) to ensure you're applying enough for adequate UV protection. And even then, take the time to rub the sunscreen in for even coverage. Got it? Good.

More Summer Essentials

St. Tropez Ultimate Tan Body Essentials KitSave to wishlistSave to wishlist

St. Tropez

Ultimate Tan Body Essentials Kit

$55

Ulta Beauty

Sunscreen is the star of this sale, but we’d be remiss not to feature one of our favorite self-tanners, especially in the age of unsafe tanning trends. (If it wasn’t obvious, applying sunscreen on top of any self-tanners is nonnegotiable!) St. Tropez makes the tanning process easy as 1-2-3:

1. Exfoliate 24 to 48 hours before self-tanning for the most even finish.
2. Apply the Self Tan Express Bronzing Mousse all over with the included applicator mitt, making sure you don’t miss any spots.
3. Depending on how intense you want your tan to be, wait one, two, or three hours before showering for a light, medium, or dark finish, respectively.

If you want a less messy, subtler, and easier-to-maintain tan, apply the St. Tropez Gradual Tan Classic Daily Firming Lotion and wait four to eight hours before hopping into the shower.

Snif Coco Shimmy Eau de ToiletteSave to wishlistSave to wishlist

Snif

Coco Shimmy Eau de Toilette

$68

Ulta Beauty

Meet your go-to summer scent: Snif's Coco Shimmy is reminiscent of lazy days spent reading and napping on the beach, as you catch whiffs of coconut, pineapple, sunscreen, sandalwood, rum absolute, and tonka bean. It’s creamy and comforting, yet light, airy, and fresh at the same time—and as an EDT, it’s hard to overdo, so go forth and spritz with glee.

Frequently Asked Questions

How We Find the Best Ulta Beauty Deals

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

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No matter what you seek or your individual needs and concerns, we want to ensure that you love anything we recommend in our stories. We believe that having a diverse team of writers and editors—in addition to the wide range of outside testers and industry experts we regularly call upon—is essential to reaching that goal.

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Jennifer Lopez has gone through many style evolutions through her long career, from her “Jenny from the block” persona of the early 2000s to her glamorous Hollywood aesthetic of today. But one element of her look has always remained the same—her glowing makeup that has you instantly wanting to gulp down a glass of water, grab a bronzer compact, and book a beach vacation. Her makeup is all golden skin, fluttery lashes, glossy lips, and immaculately groomed brows, so when the multi-hyphenate stepped onto the red carpet with those feathery brows almost completely faded—we did a double-take.

J.Lo debuted the look at the premiere of her new romantic comedy Office Romance, in which she plays a high-powered CEO who breaks her own rules with her office fling (co-star Brett Goldstein). She wore a structural, embellished gown with sleek, middle-part hair and her new lightened brows, courtesy of makeup artist Ernesto Casillas.

The actress's brows have changed slightly over the past 30 years. For her role as Selena Quintanilla in the 1997 film about the late singer, her arches were darkened and defined. Like many Gen Xers and millennials, they became slimmer in the early aughts. But it's been years since she's experimented with her brows, and perhaps the first time we've ever seen her go for a more goth-inspired look on the red carpet. (Perhaps she was inspired by her role in last year's Kiss of the Spider Woman, where one of her looks is a dark, edgy seductress complete with vampy makeup and claw-like nails.)

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Although we think J.Lo absolutely nails the lighter eyebrow trend, we don't expect her to keep it for long. Especially since it appears that they're not bleached, unlike celebrities such as Jenna Ortega, Miley Cyrus, and Michelle Yeoh, who have all gone that route. Instead, the lightening may come thanks to a combination of glue, concealer, and a light dusting of powder over top—a classic method used in stage makeup and by drag artists to make their natural brows disappear. It's a great way to dabble with the bleached brows trend without having to open up a bottle of peroxide.

Whether J.Lo's lighter brows are here stay or just making a fleeting appearance, we always love to see an unexpected red-carpet makeup moment from one of our favorite, ultra-glamorous celebs.

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Courtesy of @ashhearts.nails @overglowedit, @nailartbyqueenieSave StorySave this storySave StorySave this story

Summer is filled with opportunities for cute nailfies (aka nail selfies). Tropical vacations, beachside reading, and pool hangs all present aesthetic backdrops to show off your latest set. And if you haven’t mapped out your summer manicure lineup yet, top nail artists have predictions for the season’s top trends to spark inspiration: Experts say this summer’s nail trends will lean heavily into designs that evoke movement and texture. The demand for more dynamic nail art is prompting artists to dust off their blooming gel kits for the first time in nearly three years.

“People are interested in designs with soft, abstract effects, shifting color, and a more fluid look,” says Maryna Slynko, a nail artist and founder of Slynko Beauty Bloom Studio in Leawood, Kansas, who says blooming gel is one of the easiest ways to achieve these high-demand looks.

For those who don’t remember the blooming gel boom of 2023, here’s a refresher: The look is created with “a special polish that allows colors to diffuse and blend beautifully on the nail’s surface,” says Svitlana Motyl, a nail artist and cofounder of Art Me Nails Studio in Chicago. “It creates artistic designs with very little effort,” she says.

This summer, the trend is back with a few refinements. According to Spate, the beauty trend forecasting platform, searches for “blooming gel nails” across Google, TikTok, and Instagram have grown by 39.2% in the last year. This time around, the technique is being paired with more modern, sophisticated designs. Nail artists are using blooming gel to mimic textures found in nature, especially those associated with summertime. It’s less “lava lamp” and more realistic, tropical flowers and detailed butterfly wings.

Earlier versions of the trend had a brighter, more maximalist tone. “A few years ago, [blooming gel] was mostly used for very literal and recognizable effects, like tortoiseshell, snake print, high-contrast marble, tie-dye, abstract flowers, and bold aura nails,” says Olha Shtanhei, a nail artist in Charlotte, North Carolina. “The looks were beautiful, but they often felt very loud, trend-driven, and more focused on the effect itself rather than the design.”

In 2026, you’ll find more minimal designs instead of the vibrant color combinations that dominated a few years ago. “Compared to 2023, blooming gel designs have become softer and more controlled,” says Slynko.

Courtesy of @ashearts.nails

Shtanhei says the palette for blooming gel nails has evolved as well and reflects the nail polish colors experts predict will be popular this summer. In 2023, the look was often associated with highly saturated hues, neon shades, and strong contrasts. “Now,” she says, “I see more muted, earthy tones, translucent jellies, milky bases, soft browns, dusty pastels, sheer pinks, smoky blues, and metallic inks.”

Vibrant colors aren’t completely out of the picture (it’s still summer, after all!), but the placement is more intentional. Instead of neon dots scattered all over, we’re seeing fuchsia petals with faded edges blooming off the corner of the nail and French croc-print tips in electric chrome shades—still eye-catching, but not overwhelming. “I’m using it more as a subtle accent rather than the main focus of the entire manicure,” adds Slynko.

Courtesy of @plasterbeauty

All of the nail artists we spoke to noted that the technique and blooming gel formulas haven’t changed much, nor are there any new tools involved. “Dotting tools and fan brushes are still my go-to tools for blooming gel designs,” says Natalia Mercedes, a nail artist in New York City. Dotting tools help create controlled patterns like florals, animal prints, and abstract shapes, while fan brushes are perfect for creating softer, blended effects and movement within the design.

The update lies mainly in how the polish is being used. Artists are working with thinner layers, combining blooming gel with trendy finishes like chrome and cat-eye, and “paying more attention to the placement of the design on the nail rather than the blooming effect,” says Slynko.

Ahead, discover 11 fresh, blooming gel nail ideas that add a modern, layered, and dimensional element to summer’s most popular designs.

Blooming gel nail designs for summer 2026

Blooming gel butterfly nailsCourtesy of @paintedbylozCourtesy of @nails_by_3llieCourtesy of @nailartbyqueenieCourtesy of @ameliasnailroomBlooming gel floral nailsCourtesy of @_thejadeaestheticCourtesy of @ashearts.nailsCourtesy of @glamnailsbykaylaBlooming gel croc-print nailsCourtesy of @overgloweditCourtesy of @nails_by_3llieCourtesy of @lucys.geminailsCourtesy of @plasterbeauty

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Whether you’re in the mood for a razor-sharp cat eye, a barely-there flick, or something bold and graphic, the best liquid eyeliners get the job done with ease. Unlike pencil or gel liners, liquid eyeliner delivers a level of precision and intensity that's hard to replicate with the former. A felt or brush tip allows you to draw cleaner, sharper lines, from subtle lash-line definition to a dramatic wing. Liquid formulas also tend to be more transfer-resistant and longer-wearing, meaning your look stays intact through heat, humidity, and accidental eye-rubbing.

While liquid liner has a reputation for being more unforgiving and trickier to master, with a bit of practice, the latest formulas and applicators are more user-friendly than ever—offering smooth glide, intense pigment, and impressive staying power.

• Best Overall: Stila Stay All Day Liquid Eye Liner, $24
• Best for Beginners: Fenty Beauty Flyliner Longwear Liquid Eyeliner, $24
• Best Matte: Pat McGrath Labs Perma Precision Liquid Eyeliner, $36
• Best Smudgeproof: Chanel Le Liner de Chanel Liquid Eyeliner, $42
• Best Color Options: Nyx Professional Makeup Epic Ink Waterproof Liquid Eyeliner, $10

Frequently Asked QuestionsAccordionItemContainerButtonLargeChevron

• What’s the best technique for beginners to apply a liquid liner?
• What's the trick to getting a perfectly even line on both eyes?
• Why should you use a liquid liner over a pencil? What’s the benefit of one versus the other?
• Meet the experts
• How we test and review products
• Our staff and testers

Ahead, we’ve rounded up the very best, editor- and makeup artist-loved liquid eyeliners for precise lines, bold color, and all-day wear. Whether you're a liquid liner loyalist or just learning the ropes, there's something here for you.

Frequently Asked QuestionsAccordionItemContainerButtonLargeChevron

• What’s the best technique for beginners to apply a liquid liner?
• What's the trick to getting a perfectly even line on both eyes?
• Why should you use a liquid liner over a pencil? What’s the benefit of one versus the other?
• Meet the experts
• How we test and review products
• Our staff and testers

Best Overall: Stila Stay All Day Liquid Eye Liner

Save to wishlistSave to wishlist

Stila

Stay All Day Waterproof Liquid Eye Liner

$24

Amazon

$24

Nordstrom

$24

Dermstore

Allure contributing commerce editor Deanna Pai applying the Stila Stay All Day Waterproof Liquid Eye Liner

Deanna Pai

Why we love it: As a Best of Beauty Award Winner across various years (yes, it’s just that good!), Stila’s Stay All Day Waterproof Liquid Eye Liner has never left our makeup routines. The ultra-precise felt tip makes it easy to create everything from barely there lines to bold, dramatic wings. The formula dries quickly, sets to a satin finish, and genuinely holds up: no smudging and no mid-afternoon fading. It’s available in two classic shades, black and brown. Ardajah Jones, a makeup artist based in Waldorf, Maryland, counts it among her most-reached-for liners. Her go-to trick: "Taking a Q-tip with a little bit of eye cream on it and clean up the wing to get the most precise, sharp line."

Pai before applying the Stila Stay All Day Waterproof Liquid Eye Liner

Deanna Pai

Pai after applying the Stila Stay All Day Waterproof Liquid Eye Liner

Deanna Pai

Tester feedback from contributing commerce editor Deanna Pai

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“Nothing makes me feel more put-together than a swipe of this liquid liner. I like that the applicator pen is firm at the base and more flexible at the tip, which I find gives me the most control when I'm applying it. Best of all, once it's on, it's ON. I usually struggle with liquid formulas smearing or smudging during the day, and this is the one pen that doesn't do it—even in the dead of summer.” —Deanna Pai, contributing commerce editor

More to know

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• Shades: 2
• Finish: satin
• Waterproof: yes
• Brush or felt tip: felt

Best for Beginners: Fenty Beauty Flyliner Longwear Liquid Eyeliner

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Fenty Beauty

Flyliner Longwear Liquid Eyeliner

$24

Ulta Beauty

Allure contributor Jailynn Taylor applying the Fenty Beauty Flyliner Longwear Liquid Eyeliner

Jailynn Taylor

Why we love it: There’s something about a deep, black, inky liner like Fenty Beauty’s Flyliner Longwear Liquid Eyeliner that is so satisfying to look at and to catch a glimpse of every time you see your reflection. The hyper-saturated, water-resistant formula delivers a satin finish (in black or brown) that locks down and stays put until you remove it. The flex tip is one of its most highlighted features: Press lightly for a precise, delicate line along the lash base, or lean into it for a bolder, graphic look. The pen-like body makes it easier to grip and control, which matters when you're trying to keep things steady.

Zak Taylor, a makeup artist based in Indianapolis, has consistently leaned on this long-lasting formula: "I've never had it dry out on me early, which can be a common issue with liquid liners." He also notes that "the classic black shade is incredibly rich and dramatic, while the warm brown option pairs beautifully with softer or more natural makeup looks." Jones keeps it in regular rotation, too, and even recommends it for those starting out with liquid liners. "I apply it on myself, and it lasts all day long without smudging or wearing off."

Taylor before applying the Fenty Beauty Flyliner Longwear Liquid Eyeliner

Jailynn Taylor

Taylor after applying the Fenty Beauty Flyliner Longwear Liquid Eyeliner

Jailynn Taylor

Tester feedback from contributor Jailynn Taylor

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“I still remember my conversion from pencil to liquid liner during the peak wing era of 2016, and even today, I'll still swipe on a razor-sharp wing to this day. I've since upgraded my liquid liner and now reach for Fenty Beauty's Flyliner Longwear Liquid Eyeliner. The color is an undeniable deep black, and the felt pen tip is sharp enough to give you that clean drag that makes achieving the perfect pointed wing effortless. It dries down quickly, which is a must for me to prevent transferring to my upper lid. My favorite attribute, though, is that it stays all day despite my terrible habit of touching my eyes.” —Jailynn Taylor, contributor

More to know

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• Shades: 2
• Finish: satin
  Waterproof: no, but water-resistant
• Brush or felt tip: felt

Best Matte: Pat McGrath Labs Perma Precision Liquid Eyeliner

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Pat McGrath Labs

Perma Precision Liquid Eyeliner

$36

Nordstrom

$36

Sephora

$36

Ulta Beauty

Allure content director Sophie Panych applying the Pat McGrath Labs Perma Precision Liquid Eyeliner

Sophie Panych

Why we love it: Matte liners make pigment appear richer, and edges look more defined, which is why the Pat McGrath Labs Perma Precision Liquid Eyeliner stands out. Its velvety, true-matte finish delivers an intensely saturated black that reads crisp and graphic against the skin. This waterproof formula is built to last all day without smudging, transferring, feathering, or fading, even in heat and humidity. The flexible tip is a soft, skinny applicator that gives you more control over line weight, letting you go from a precise tightline to a bolder stroke within the same application. The ink is fast-drying, and once it’s on, it’s on—so tread carefully and confidently.

Panych before applying the Pat McGrath Labs Perma Precision Liquid Eyeliner

Sophie Panych

Panych after applying the Pat McGrath Labs Perma Precision Liquid Eyeliner

Sophie Panych

Tester feedback from content director Sophie Panych

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“The Pat McGrath Labs liquid liner is an elite product, and what would you expect from a makeup artist who made dramatic eye looks a signature of her career? But the amazing thing about this liner is that, yes, you can use it to create runway-style cat eyes and major artistic flares, but the tapered, fine tip also lets you draw delicate wings and subtle doe-eyes à la Marilyn Monroe. As a former dancer, I’ve used a lot of liquid liner for the stage, and the reason this is one of the best out there is that the felt tip is stiff enough that it lets you create crisp lines (especially helpful if you are over 35 and your eyelid skin is getting looser), but not so stiff that it pokes you in the eye. It’s also incredibly pigmented—both the Xtreme Black and Xtreme Coffee (which I'm wearing in these photos)—and stays that way for hours (and through a sweaty performance, too).” —Sophie Panych, content director

More to know

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• Shades: 2
• Finish: matte
• Waterproof: yes
• Brush or felt tip: felt

Best Multichrome: Stila Stay All Day Chroma-Flash Liquid Eyeliner

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Stila

Stay All Day Chroma-Flash Liquid Eyeliner

$27

Amazon

$27

Nordstrom

$27

Ulta Beauty

Allure commerce editor Sarah Han applying the Stila Stay All Day Chroma-Flash Liquid Eyeliner in Unicorn

Sarah Han

Why we love it: Black liner will always have its place, but if you want something more eye-catching (literally), Stila’s color-shifting Stay All Day Chroma-Flash Liquid Eyeliners take your look to new dimensions. Rather than laying down a single-tone line, this formula is much more dynamic. The Unicorn shade, for example, drifts between fuchsia, bronze, and green depending on the light, giving you a prismatic effect. The formula is long-wearing and resistant to smudging and fading, so all that color actually sticks around, and the precision applicator makes it manageable enough to get a clean line. It’s lightweight on the lid despite how bold it reads, which helps with all-day comfort.

Han before applying the Stila Stay All Day Chroma-Flash Liquid Eyeliner in Unicorn

Sarah Han

Han after applying the Stila Stay All Day Chroma-Flash Liquid Eyeliner in Unicorn

Sarah Han

Tester feedback from commerce editor Sarah Han

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“I adore colorful eyeliners but usually stick to gels since they're more forgiving. I also consider inkwell/dip liners the most difficult to master, but with a little practice, Stila's Stay All Day Chroma-Flash isn't all that bad, especially since the brush is so thin and precise. I mean, for the gorgeous, color-shifting finish, it's worth a bit of struggle. It's just so pretty! I'm impressed that there are not just two, but three colors you can visibly see as you turn your head. I simply must try all five shades!” —Sarah Han, commerce editor

More to know

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• Shades: 5
• Finish: metallic
• Brush or felt tip: felt

Best Smudgeproof Liner: Chanel Le Liner de Chanel Liquid Eyeliner

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Chanel

Le Liner de Chanel Liquid Eyeliner

$42

Chanel

$42

Nordstrom

$42

Ulta Beauty

Allure commerce market editor Sarah Hoffmann applying the Chanel Le Liner de Chanel Liquid Eyeliner

Sarah Hoffmann

Why we love it: The secret to Chanel’s Le Liner’s staying power is a latex-like formula that essentially seals itself to the skin the moment it dries. The flexible felt-tip brush doesn’t tug or pull on the delicate lid, allowing for a clean, continuous stroke in a single pass. Tilt the brush on its side for a thicker, more graphic look, or use just the tip for a precise lash-line definition. The three available shades include a deep black, a rich, ultra-brown, and a bordeaux-toned rouge noir.

Hoffmann before applying the Chanel Le Liner de Chanel Liquid Eyeliner

Sarah Hoffmann

Hoffmann after applying the Chanel Le Liner de Chanel Liquid Eyeliner

Sarah Hoffmann

Tester feedback from commerce market editor Sarah Hoffmann

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"My days of thick, forgiving winged eyeliner are long behind me, so I'm all about precision and control with my liner formulas these days. Chanel's Le Liner de Chanel has a fine tip applicator that's quite stiff compared to others I've tried, which I find to be ideal for keeping my lines tight and clean. The formula is definitely a liquid but not so loose that it's runny and stressful—I love dragging my fingertip along the outer wing to slightly soften the tip—and this eyeliner has just enough viscosity that I can safely manipulate the wing with my fingers without fear that I'm going to end up with inky fingerprints all over my face. You can do a lot with this eyeliner, which really helps justify the price tag, IMO.” —Sarah Hoffmann, commerce market editor

More to know

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• Shades: 3
• Finish: matte
• Waterproof: n/a
• Brush or felt tip: felt

Best for Hooded Lids: Lisa Eldridge Kitten Flick Liquid Eyeliner

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Lisa Eldridge

Kitten Flick Liquid Eyeliner

$32

Lisa Eldridge

Allure senior beauty editor Jesa Marie Calaor applying the Lisa Eldridge Kitten Flick Liquid Eyeliner

Jesa Marie Calaor

Why we love it: A two-time Allure Best of Beauty winner, Lisa Eldridge’s Kitten Flick Liquid Eyeliner was born from decades of professional experience and a very specific goal: making a feline flick feel achievable for everyone. The calligraphy-style pen has an ultra-fine nib with just the right amount of flex, and is particularly useful for hooded or mature eyes, where lid space is limited, and getting close to the lash line without flooding it is key. The ultra-black, matte formula is budge-proof, smudge-proof, transfer-proof, and water-resistant, with all-day staying power. It offers tons of versatility: Keep it subtle with a delicate flick or build it out into a full cat eye.

Tester feedback from senior beauty editor Jesa Marie Calaor

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"I’ve tried every liquid liner under the sun, and this inky, long-lasting black pen is the one I always come back to, to create my signature cat eye. It never skips, and its fine point makes it easy to effect a sharp wing." —Jesa Marie Calaor, senior beauty editor

More to know

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• Shades: 1
• Finish: matte
• Waterproof: no, but water-resistant
• Brush or felt tip: felt

Best for Thin Lines: Wet n Wild Breakup Proof Waterproof Skinny Eyeliner

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Wet N’ Wild

Breakup Proof Waterproof Skinny Eyeliner

$6 $5 (17% off)

Amazon

$7

Ulta Beauty

Allure commerce editor Sarah Han applying the Wet n Wild Breakup Proof Waterproof Skinny Eyeliner

Sarah Han

Why we love it: On a tight budget? Invest just five dollars, and you’ve got all you need to achieve your thinnest, most precise wing yet. Wet n Wild’s Breakup Proof Waterproof Skinny Eyeliner is designed with a brush tip that tapers down to less than 0.1 millimeters, so you can get right into the lash line and stay the narrow course, or build up your pigment without flooding your entire lid and risking raccoon eyes. The matte black formula is deeply pigmented, dries quickly, and is ready for whatever your day has in store (rain, tears, or sweat).

Taylor keeps it in his kit as a go-to recommendation for beginners: "I especially love the brush tip because it gives amazing precision and makes creating detailed wings much easier," he says, adding that "for the price point, I think the performance and staying power are incredibly impressive."

Han before applying the Wet n Wild Breakup Proof Waterproof Skinny Eyeliner

Sarah Han

Han after applying the Wet n Wild Breakup Proof Waterproof Skinny Eyeliner

Sarah Han

Tester feedback from Han

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“Because I tend to think liquid liners look too harsh for my eyes, I usually stick to gel liners for a softer finish—but Wet n Wild’s tip is so precise that I can really nail down a thin line that just barely peeks through but still adds the tiniest bit of drama to my look. I actually picked this up from the drugstore on a whim (and because Breakup Proof is a clever name), and have been reaching for it on days I want a bit of drama—a.k.a. a sharper-than-sharp wing—without outright overwhelming my eyes.” —Sarah Han, commerce editor

More to know

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• Shades: 1
• Finish: matte
• Waterproof: yes
• Brush or felt tip: brush

Best for Cat Eyes: Half Magic Magic Flik Eyeliner

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Half Magic

Magic Flik Eyeliner

$25

Ulta Beauty

Former Allure senior news editor Nicola Dall’Asen applying the Half Magic Magic Flik Liquid Eyeliner

Nicola Dall'Asen

Why we love it: If Euphoria’s makeup looks have you mesmerized, meet the liner that has made them possible: Half Magic’s Magic Flik Liquid Eyeliner, created by the show’s makeup artist Donni Davy. (Maddy's signature double wings were created using this liner and the Flik Eraser Makeup Correcting Pen.)This TikTok-viral pen features a one-of-a-kind paddle-shaped tip that lets you effortlessly switch between razor-thin lines and bold graphic wings by simply changing your grip. Use the thin, curved edge of the tip for precision, then flip it onto the thicker, flat side when you need more coverage, such as filling in your wing or creating a bold, graphic look. The ultra-black formula is waterproof, smudge-resistant, and lasts all day—no touch-ups needed.

Dall’Asen before applying the Half Magic Magic Flik Liquid Eyeliner

Nicola Dall'Asen

Dall’Asen after applying the Half Magic Magic Flik Liquid Eyeliner

Nicola Dall'Asen

Tester feedback from former senior news editor Nicola Dall'Asen

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“Even a cat-eye veteran like myself needs some help when it comes to drawing straight lines with liquid eyeliner, and that's what Magic Flik provides in a way that no other eyeliner does. With its wide, flat applicator tip, this eyeliner works like a fancy calligraphy pen, delivering smooth strokes with high-impact color.” —Nicola Dall'Asen, former senior news editor

More to know

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• Shades: 1
• Finish: satin
• Waterproof: yes
• Brush or felt tip: felt

Best Color Options: Nyx Professional Makeup Epic Ink Waterproof Liquid Eyeliner

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Nyx Professional Makeup

Epic Ink Waterproof Liquid Eyeliner

$10

Amazon

$10

Ulta Beauty

Why we love it: Nine shades of waterproof liquid liner for $10 a pop? The Best of Beauty-winning Nyx Professional Makeup Epic Ink Waterproof Liquid Eyeliner is very hard to beat, in our humble opinion. But don’t just ask us: Our readers bestowed a 2026 Readers’ Choice Award on the liner—and in 2025…and 2024, and so forth. While most liners stick to black and maybe a brown, this one has more intriguing options—including a deep chocolate, warm graham cracker, dusty blue-grey, and more—that are sure to be hits with anyone who wants to experiment beyond the basics.

The slender brush tip delivers saturated, skip-free color in a single stroke and adjusts easily depending on pressure. Taylor reaches for its vast color range and the “smooth and easy to work with” formula. "It works well for both everyday makeup wearers and artists who love pushing creativity," Taylor adds. Jones agrees: “The brush tip is movable and the liner is super black—it’s best for people looking for that extra drama and a great, affordable option.”

Tester feedback from Han

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“This has been a staple since my college days—it's affordable, super pigmented, easy-gliding as heck, and the felt tip is equal parts flexible and precise. While I prefer gel liners these days, I recently picked up Epic Ink in two browns and a shimmery pink—I'm so here for these color expansions—and have fallen back in love. This formula lasts all day and sets really quickly, but I find that I can use my nails to quickly fix any out-of-line mistakes or sharpen the lines of my wings at the very end.” —Sarah Han, commerce editor

More to know

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• Shades: 15 (9 matte, 6 shimmery)
• Finish: matte
• Waterproof: yes
• Brush or felt tip: felt

Best Dual-Ended: Tom Ford Eye Defining Pen Liquid Eyeliner Duo

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Tom Ford

Eye Defining Pen Liquid Eyeliner Duo

$65

Nordstrom

$65

Bluemercury

Why we love it: Girl math: Tom Ford’s Eye Defining Pen Liquid Eyeliner Duo is two liners in one, so it’s really $32.50 per head. On one side is a fine calligraphy-style tip for precise, thin lines, and on the other, a longer brush tip for broader, more fluid strokes. Together, they cover the full range of what liquid liner can do, without the need to adjust pressure to customize your swipe. The formula is a deep, satin-matte hybrid black, and once it sets, it stays: no smudging, no fading, no transfer. It's a good match for anyone who’s trying to find their liner style or for the makeup enthusiast who likes to switch things up.

More to know

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• Shades: 1
• Finish: satin-matte
• Waterproof: n/a
• Brush or felt tip: both

Frequently Asked Questions

What’s the best technique for beginners to apply a liquid liner?

Taylor recommends working in small strokes rather than trying to create the entire line in one motion. "One of my biggest tips when applying liquid liner is to look straight forward into the mirror while slightly leaning your head back to evenly show your lid space,” Taylor says. “While keeping both eyes open, frame your eyelid with the liner first before extending it outward into a cat-eye effect."

Jones offers a practical starting point for those still finding their footing: "My best technique for beginners is to apply tape to the outer corner of your eye to use as a guide.” She also suggests sketching out the line with black eye shadow and an angled brush first, since "eye shadow is a bit more forgiving than a liquid liner and easy to clean up."

What's the trick to getting a perfectly even line on both eyes?

Both Taylor and Jones stress the importance of checking your work from multiple angles and distances rather than relying on one close-up view. Taylor suggests keeping both a large mirror and a handheld mirror nearby: "It's also important to step back occasionally and look at both eyes relaxed and straight on, since liner can look different up close versus at a natural distance." Jones recommends going back and forth between eyes rather than completing one side before starting the other: "Following the natural outer corner of your eye is always the best way to get the line even on both sides," she adds.

Why should you use a liquid liner over a pencil? What’s the benefit of one versus the other?

It comes down to the finish you're after. "Liquid liners are perfect for boldly defining the eyes and creating sharper, more graphic makeup looks, especially for dramatic wings or editorial styles," Taylor explains, while pencils are better suited for "softer liner looks and when you want a more smudged, lived-in makeup effect." Jones adds that the two tools also serve different parts of the eye: "A pencil tends to be better suited for the waterline, and a liquid liner is perfect for the top eyeline."

Meet the experts

• Ardajah Jones, a makeup artist in Waldorf, Maryland
• Zak Taylor, a makeup artist in Indianapolis, Indiana

How we test and review products

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

For our review of the best liquid eyeliners, we enlisted the help of multiple editors, writers, contributors, and makeup artists to review the products. This ensures our testing base spans different skin tones, genders, and dermatological conditions. We considered each product's performance across four primary categories: ingredients, wear and longevity, packaging, and inclusivity. For more on what's involved in our reporting, check out our complete 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.

Design: Mark Baker-Sanchez; Photos: Courtesy of subjects and brandsSave StorySave this storySave StorySave this story

Did you know there are only about 12,000 practicing dermatologists in the US? So, statistically speaking, with over 300,000 people voting in the Allure Readers’ Choice Awards, a few of you might be dermatologists. But it’s definitely safe to say that most of you aren’t.

Now, that’s not to say you don’t have well-informed opinions on how to take care of mature skin—you’re an Allure reader, after all, and if you have mature skin, there’s undeniably some wisdom under that epidermis. But sometimes you just want confirmation from the pros that what you’re using is actually a smart choice.

So we chatted with a few dermatologists about which of this year’s Readers’ Choice Award-winning skin-care products get their most enthusiastic thumbs up for cleansing, treating, and protecting mature skin. Does your favorite get the expert OK? Find out below.

Click through to see if your favorite skin, hair, makeup, and body products were voted most-loved in the 2026 Readers' Choice Awards. Then, read their reviews.

See All the Expert Recommendations

• La Roche-Posay Anthelios Melt-In Milk Sunscreen SPF 60
• Glow Recipe Watermelon Glow Pink Dream Body Cream
• CeraVe Hydrating Facial Cleanser
• Dove Deep Moisture Body Wash
• Laneige Lip Sleeping Mask
• Drunk Elephant Lala Retro Whipped Cream
• Tree Hut Shea Sugar Scrub
• La Roche-Posay Toleriane Double Repair Face Moisturizer
• Supergoop Play Mineral Lotion SPF 30
• The Ordinary Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5 (with Ceramides)
• Paula's Choice Skin Perfecting 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant

La Roche-Posay Anthelios Melt-In Milk Sunscreen SPF 60Save to wishlistSave to wishlist

Sunscreen

La Roche-Posay Anthelios Melt-In Milk Sunscreen SPF 60

$38

Amazon

$39

Ulta Beauty

$38

Walmart

Daily sunscreen use is essential to help prevent further collagen breakdown and discoloration, says Jenna Queller, MD, a board-certified dermatologist in Boca Raton, Florida. “I personally use this sunscreen and often recommend it to patients because it offers high broad-spectrum protection in a formula that feels comfortable and hydrating on the skin,” she says of La Roche-Posay Anthelios Melt-In Milk Sunscreen SPF 60. And Dr. Queller is especially impressed with how this face- and body-friendly chemical-filter formula feels. “One of the biggest challenges with sunscreen is consistency, and elegant formulas like this make daily use much easier.”

Glow Recipe Watermelon Glow Pink Dream Body CreamSave to wishlistSave to wishlist

Clean Body Lotion

Glow Recipe Watermelon Glow Pink Dream Body Cream

$26

Amazon

$26

Sephora

Anetta Reszko, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in New York City, tells her patients to apply Glow Recipe Watermelon Glow Pink Dream Body Cream straight out of the shower, especially on dryness-prone elbows, knees, and shins. “Mature skin tends to lose lipid barrier function over time. This cream combines polyhydroxy acid (PHA) exfoliation with deep hydration, a rare combination that gently resurfaces without stripping,” she says, adding that that’s why she keeps coming back to it herself. “The niacinamide also helps with the uneven tone that becomes more common with age.”

CeraVe Hydrating Facial CleanserSave to wishlistSave to wishlist

Facial Cleanser

CeraVe Hydrating Facial Cleanser

$16 $12 (25% off)

Amazon

$16

Ulta Beauty

$14

Walmart

“CeraVe Hydrating Facial Cleanser remains one of the best accessible cleansers for mature skin because it cleanses without disrupting the barrier,” says Sonia Badreshia-Bansal, MD, a Danville, California-based board-certified dermatologist, who says mature skin generally tolerates creamy, hydrating cleansers much better than foaming or aggressive exfoliating washes.

Dara Spearman, MD, a board-certified dermatologist in Fort Wayne, Indiana, couldn’t agree more and, in fact, uses this cleanser herself. “It is a great product for mature skin because it is very gentle and helps maintain the skin’s moisture barrier instead of stripping it, as skin naturally becomes drier and more sensitive with age,” she says. Dr. Queller often recommends it to patients, too: “A gentle cleanser with ceramides and hyaluronic acid helps maintain hydration while supporting the skin barrier,” she says.

Dove Deep Moisture Body WashSave to wishlistSave to wishlist

Body Wash

Dove Deep Moisture Body Wash

$11

Amazon

$8

Walmart

If you’ve ever thought that Dove Deep Moisture Body Wash is highly underrated, just know that dermatologists agree. “Many body washes strip lipids and worsen dryness, especially in older patients,” Dr. Badreshia-Bansal says of the six-time Readers’ Choice Award winner. “This formula helps maintain hydration and leaves the skin more comfortable after showering, which is important because mature skin loses moisture more rapidly.”

Laneige Lip Sleeping MaskSave to wishlistSave to wishlist

Lip Balm

Laneige Lip Sleeping Mask

$24

Amazon

$24

Sephora

“As lips age, they become drier and thinner, so rich, hydrating lip products, like this lip mask, are great for mature lips,” says Sejal Shah, a board-certified dermatologist in New York City who uses the Laneige Lip Sleeping Mask personally, as does Dr. Queller, who recommends applying a generous layer before bed. Dr. Reszko is also a fan of this balm, which comes in over a dozen fun flavors (Berry, Strawberry Shortcake, and Peach Iced Tea, to name a few). “This mask uses hyaluronic acid and antioxidants (vitamin C and pomegranate juice) overnight when skin is in repair mode, and consistent use over several weeks makes a genuinely noticeable difference,” she says.

Drunk Elephant Lala Retro Whipped CreamSave to wishlistSave to wishlist

Clean Facial Moisturizer

Drunk Elephant Lala Retro Whipped Cream

$66

Amazon

$66

Ulta Beauty

$66

Sephora

Sure, Drunk Elephant became the most coveted skin care among tweens, but lest we forget, many of its products are formulated to deliver some serious benefits for more mature skin. A little goes a long way with Drunk Elephant Lala Retro Whipped Cream, according to Dr. Spearman, who recommends applying a small amount after any serums you may use. “It's a great product for mature skin because it delivers deep, barrier-supporting hydration, which helps address common age-related concerns like dryness, loss of elasticity, and a weakened skin barrier,” she says, giving a shout-out to its three types of ceramides.

Tree Hut Shea Sugar ScrubSave to wishlistSave to wishlist

Body Scrub

Tree Hut Shea Sugar Scrub

$12 $9 (25% off)

Amazon

$10

Ulta Beauty

$9

Walmart

“Body skin is so often left out of the [mature skin] conversation, but it thins and dries just like facial skin does,” says Dr. Reszko, who recommends using the incredibly moisturizing Tree Hut Shea Sugar Scrub once or twice a week. “The shea butter here is genuinely emollient, and the physical exfoliation helps with the rough, crepe-like texture many people start noticing on their arms and legs with age.”

La Roche-Posay Toleriane Double Repair Face MoisturizerSave to wishlistSave to wishlist

Moisturizer

La Roche-Posay Toleriane Double Repair Face Moisturizer

$25

Amazon

$26

Ulta Beauty

$25

Dermstore

La Roche-Posay Toleriane Double Repair Face Moisturizer seems to be as popular among dermatologists as it is among Allure readers. Dr. Badreshia-Bansal says she recommends it frequently because it combines ceramides, niacinamide, and glycerin in a way that strengthens the skin barrier without feeling heavy. “I especially like it layered over retinoids at night to minimize irritation,” she says, while Dr. Shah says she personally uses it because the lightweight texture absorbs quickly, resulting in softness without greasy residue. Dr. Queller also uses and recommends it because mature skin is often drier and more sensitive, she says, and its ingredients address those concerns without feeling heavy.

Supergoop Play Mineral Lotion SPF 30Save to wishlistSave to wishlist

Clean Sunscreen

Supergoop Play Mineral Lotion SPF 30

$28

Amazon

$28

Nordstrom

$28

Ulta Beauty

“Sun exposure is the single biggest driver of visible aging, and by midlife, most of us are dealing with decades of accumulated UV damage,” says Dr. Reszko. “I love this mineral lotion because it provides broad-spectrum protection without the concerns sometimes associated with chemical filters, and its texture layers well under makeup.” She recommends applying a quarter-sized amount of Supergoop Play Mineral Lotion SPF 30 to your face and neck—never forget the neck!—every morning as the last step in your routine, and then reapply it every two hours if you're outside for extended periods.

The Ordinary Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5 (with Ceramides)Save to wishlistSave to wishlist

Serum

The Ordinary Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5 (with Ceramides)

$10

Amazon

$10

Nordstrom

$10

Ulta Beauty

Dr. Queller appreciates how accessible and straightforward The Ordinary Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5 (with Ceramides) is, not to mention how well it layers with other skin-care products. “Hyaluronic acid is a great addition to a mature skin-care routine because it helps attract and retain moisture, giving skin a plumper, more hydrated appearance,” she says.

Dr. Reszko echoes that recommendation: “Our natural hyaluronic acid levels decline noticeably with age, so replenishing it topically makes a real visible difference in plumpness and hydration,” she says. But that’s not all. “The vitamin B5 supports barrier repair, which matters a lot for skin that has thinned or become more reactive over time." Both dermatologists say that the key is applying it to slightly damp skin before your moisturizer to give the hyaluronic acid something to bind to, followed by a richer cream on top to lock everything in.

Paula's Choice Skin Perfecting 2% BHA Liquid ExfoliantSave to wishlistSave to wishlist

Exfoliant

Paula's Choice Skin Perfecting 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant

$37 $26 (30% off)

Amazon

$37

Sephora

$37

Dermstore

The BHA in Paula's Choice Skin Perfecting 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant—salicylic acid—benefits more than just acne-prone younger skin. “Salicylic acid at this concentration penetrates the pore lining and accelerates cell turnover, which slows significantly as we age,” says Dr. Reszko. “It addresses dullness, enlarged pores, and texture without the irritation that more aggressive exfoliants can cause.” She suggests starting two to three times per week in the evening, after cleansing and before moisturizer, and always following with sunscreen in the morning.

See all of the makeup, hair, skin, and body products readers voted as their 2026 favorites beauty products here.