Author: fezomy

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Remember that prolific meme from a decade ago with the close-up crop of a model's face, iridescent star-shaped glitter packed generously under her eyes, the bold, all-caps text reading, “HOW TO COVER YOUR DARK EYE CIRCLES”? It was simultaneously relatable and whimsical, a comment on the pressure to hide any evidence of supposedly unflattering shadows and a call to playfully draw attention to the area instead of covering it up.

While no one went as far as to encrust their tear troughs in glitter at this year's Met Gala (hey, if there was ever a place to try it…), we did see a number of celebrity guests leaning into undereye emphasis. Instead of depending on concealer to create the illusion of being impossibly well-rested and age-defying, several stars drew attention to the area with their makeup, in some cases even accentuating the look of shadows.

The Met Gala's dark circle celebration took a few different forms, the most obvious of which being the use of eye shadow well below the lower lash line. For some, like early arriver Emma Chamberlain, it involved diffusing metallic mauve all around the eye and in such a way that looks like intentional fallout in her natural contours. (Makeup artist Lilly Keys used the Makeup by Mario Master Metallics Eyeshadow Palette to get the look.) Meanwhile, Ejae's eye shadow, a look created by makeup artist Min Kim with the Diorshow 5 Couleurs palette in Grand Bal, is smudged beyond the usual borders of smoky-eye territory.

Photo: Getty ImagesPhoto: Getty Images

Some gala guests fully filled their tear troughs with color that dared people to notice an area often camouflaged into invisibility. In the case of Hudson Williams's Rufio-reminiscent mismatched look, Aika Flores used Chanel Les 9 Ombres High Intensity Eyeshadow Palette in The Space Traveler and The Daring Muse “for a striking look with buildable intensity that evolved with every blend,” well down beside his nose. Amelia Hamlin, on the other hand, brightened up the area, not with concealer but with iridescent, silvery lavender shimmer. And singer Yseult, whose lids were given a graphic combination of black and gold shadow, had bold, metallic blue occupying her undereye area.

Photo: Getty ImagesPhoto: Getty ImagesPhoto: Getty Images

As she often does, Alysa Liu wore her favorite version of emphasized undereye shadows, aegyo sal, the K-beauty makeup technique that intentionally plays up undereye fat. The Olympic champ recently showed Allure how she does it herself, but for the Met Gala, makeup artist Tami El Sombati used a deep, warm burgundy to create the subtle shadow.

Photo: Getty Images

And then there were the celebrities who basically just said, “Fuck it—deal with seeing my dark circles”—and you can't say we didn't see this coming. Both Charli XCX and model Devyn Garcia let their natural shadows show, and instead of heavy concealer, Gracie Abrams's makeup artist, Emily Cheng, opted for Chanel's upcoming launch, Serum Concealer Natural Healthy Glow, for a much more no-makeup makeup undereye.

Photo: Getty ImagesPhoto: Getty ImagesPhoto: Getty Images

Celebrity or not, we're all tired. We're all aging. We're all at the mercy of how lighting hits that ever-so-thin skin. Why fight it? These Met Gala moments prove a bright, perfectly even undereye isn't a requirement for leaving the house, let alone the biggest fashion function of the year. Play with color, play with smudging that kajal pencil farther down, play with… nothing. Skip concealer and watch as the world not only doesn't end, but you also potentially come to actually love the look of dark circles.

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It's been a few days, but we're still thinking about SZA's makeup from the 2026 Met Gala!

The Grammy winner teamed up with makeup artist Sophia Sinot for her Met Gala glam, a radiant combination of marigold yellow, rose, and orchid tones that mimicked the bright golden hue of custom-made Bode gown—a gown that just so happened to be made with upcycled fabric sourced from eBay—and her floral headpiece.

According to Sinot, the inspiration began with a “feeling of radiance" given the “incredible sunlight energy” of the dress. “It felt like she was embodying light, so I wanted the makeup to harmonize with that,” Sinot tells Allure. “There were many different ideas for makeup, so it became about refining everything down to what felt the most cohesive and true to the overall vision.” She collaborated with SZA's hairstylist Devonte Turnbull and stylist Briana Andalore to ensure everything worked beautifully together.

Yellow was a key color for the entire look. “It was a soft focal point, almost like an inner glow, with fresh skin and touches of pink to bring warmth,” Sinot explains. "It was definitely the headpiece and the color of the gown that inspired me the most. I loved how the beading fell onto her face; it added this organic, almost sacred framing and perfectly aligned with the yellow halo makeup.”

Sophia Sinot

To start, Sinot prepped SZA's skin with classic Vaseline Original Healing Jelly; she used it “strategically as a primer” for a “smooth, luminous base" that gave SZA a “healthy, lit-from-within glow that lasts all night on the red carpet.” Once her skin was prepped to perfection, Sinot applied Huda Beauty foundation and concealer, Made by Mitchell cream and powder blush and bronzer, and One/Size powder as the base of SZA's look.

To craft the yellow “halo," Sinot combined Make Up For Ever Flash Color Case and Ben Nye yellow eye shadow. She defined SZA's eyes with Caia Cosmetics Snatched Eyeliner and stacked two pairs of Lilly Lashes (Milan and Miami) for extra drama.

“For me, the look never stops at the face,” Sinot adds. “I always make sure the décolletage, arms, and legs feel just as hydrated and radiant.” For this, she combined Vaseline Cocoa Radiant Body Lotion with Vaseline Glazed & Glisten Gel Oil in Golden Hour Glow for a “soft, luxurious sheen” that "delivers a beautiful glow without feeling sticky or greasy, and it won’t transfer onto clothing.”

The finished look beautifully represented the Grammy-winning singer. “SZA’s style has this balance of grounded energy and something otherworldly, while also still being a glam girl at heart,” Sinot shares. "I love the duality of that—still glam, but with something slightly 'different.' Her love for nature was also something I kept in mind, with this yellow halo representing light and warmth.”

Courtesy of @thehaloeffectbyangel, @donebyhadleydunn, and @d_summons_theeSave StorySave this storySave StorySave this story

Have you ever gotten lost in a watercolor painting? Following its fluid washes of pigment and tracing each brushstroke as it melts into the next brings art lovers—including us at Allure—a sense of peace. This season, nail artists are bringing that vibe into their manicures. Watercolor nails echo the romance of Impressionist paintings and feature sheer, blended color that feels expressive and artistic.

Nail artists are particularly excited about the trend, as it allows them to fully tap into their creative range. “I love watercolor nails and being able to use actual art supplies to create unique nail designs,” says Hadley Dunn, a nail artist based in Kentucky.

There are several ways to achieve this look. Dunn prefers a more literal approach: “I coat my base in a matte topcoat before using watercolor paint on the nail and sealing it with a [glossy] topcoat,” she says.

When San Sung Kim, a Korean nail artist, creates her watercolor nails, she starts with a cat-eye base, as its light-shifting shimmer particles make the finished look more dynamic. “I have been working with velvet polishes since the beginning of my nail journey, and I always try to come up with fresh new takes,” she previously told Allure, noting that colorful swirl candies inspire her take on watercolor nails.

Courtesy of @SansungnailsCourtesy of @sansungnails

Kim then uses a nail art marker (a felt-tip pen filled with polish) to paint swirls and patches in varying sizes, before taking a wet nail brush to blur her hand-painted design for a realistic watercolor look. The result? A dreamy manicure that would feel at home next to paintings by Monet and Renoir.

Courtesy of @nailzzwithannie

Some nail artists, like New York City-based Natalia Mercedes, prefer using an airbrush to achieve watercolor paint’s signature blend. “It’s similar to how aura nails are created with an airbrush,” Mercedes says, noting that she uses polish formulated specifically for the tool (like the polishes from Favai) and builds color in sheer, controlled layers.

With color theory in mind, each shade subtly shifts the one beneath it: “When I layer yellow over blue, I get a bit of green, and that’s what creates that seamless, diffused effect,” Mercedes adds. To keep the layering intentional rather than muddy, she lightly cures each layer before adding the next.

Annie Ngo, a nail artist in Atlanta, uses a more unconventional method: dabbing eye shadow pigments onto the nail in layers to achieve the watercolor effect. Ngo coats each nail with a matte primer, which creates a smooth base, before buffing the powder across the surface with a nail sponge. She does this with multiple colors, allowing them to overlap at the edges to create that beautifully blurred look, then seals the look with a glossy top coat.

No matter how it’s achieved, it’s undeniable that the soft, dreamy nail look is one we’ll be seeing everywhere this summer. Ahead, collect inspo for your watercolor manicure.

Bright watercolor nails

Courtesy of @karin.naileditCourtesy of @kimkimnailsCourtesy of @donebyhadleydunn

Jewel-toned watercolor nails

Courtesy of @d_summons_theeCourtesy of @deesummonsthee

Floral watercolor nails

Courtesy of @bees.knees.nailsCourtesy of @bexbeautynails

Watercolor fruit nails

Courtesy of @danis.manisCourtesy of @nailsbyninnCourtesy of @jazzynails.x

Milky watercolor nails

Courtesy of @friskynails

Rainbow watercolor nails

Courtesy of @thehaloeffectbyangel

Discover more nail art trends:

• This Summer’s Top Nail Art Trends Are All About Feel-Good Finishes
• Gem Nails Are the Most Nostalgic Nail Art Trend of 2026
• These Are the Best South Korean Nail Trends of 2026

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

If there’s one styling tool our editors rely on the most, it’s the best blow-dryer brushes. These innovative, two-in-one tools help you achieve a professional-level blowout, no salon appointment (or sore arms) required. While they won’t fully replace your blow-dryer—you’ll still want to rough-dry first—they’re a game-changer once hair is damp, cutting down on frizz, styling time, and the dreaded arm workout. Even if you've gotten used to—or resigned yourself to—maneuvering your blow-dryer and round brush simultaneously, trust us when we say hair-dryer brushes make styling more controlled, easier, faster, and smoother.

Our Top Hair-Dryer Brushes

• Best Overall: Dyson Airwrap Co-anda2x Multi-Styler and Dryer, $749
• Best for Quick Styling: GHD Duet Blowdry, $429
• Best for Beginners: T3 Airebrush, $150
• Best for Curly Hair: Shark Glossi Blowout Brush, $180

The concept of a hair dryer brush is simple yet intuitive: The handy, two-in-one tool combines the detangling ability of a brush with the power of heat, allowing you to style, volumize, and blow-dry your hair to perfection. “Blow-dry brushes work for most hair types—fine, wavy, straight, medium, and even very thick hair if the sections are small enough,” says Reagan Baker, a stylist based in New York City, adding that they’re the closest you can get to a professional blowout without needing expert technique. Interest piqued? Keep reading to learn more about our tried-and-true picks

Frequently Asked Questions

• How do I get the most out of a hair-dryer brush?
• How do I minimize heat damage from a hair-dryer brush?
• Are hair-dryer brushes easier to use than traditional hair-dryers?
• How do I clean my hair-dryer brush?
• Meet the experts
• How we test and review products
• Our staff and testers

Best Overall: Dyson Airwrap Co-anda2x Multi-Styler and Dryer

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Dyson

Airwrap Co-anda2x Multi-Styler and Dryer

$750

Amazon

$750

Nordstrom

$749

Sephora

Allure senior commerce director Shanna Shipin using the Dyson Airwrap Co-anda2x Multi-Styler and Dryer

Shanna Shipin

Why it's worth it: As far as we're concerned, the Dyson Airwrap Co-anda2x is one of the most powerful, user-friendly blow dryer brushes on the market. We love it for its fast dry times, thanks to a high-powered motor that spins 150,000 times a minute (more than any other Dyson tool motor, by the way). It's also ultra-lightweight, at 0.9 pounds, and automatically shuts off when you put it down (so you'll never again wonder whether you unplugged it). The suite of attachments makes it easy to define your curls or straighten your strands, for soft, sleek, hair-commercial-worthy styles.

The Airwrap Co-anda is available in two versions: Curly+Coily and Straight+Wavy. Both have five attachments, with a few differences. Our tester is using the Curly+Coily version, which comes with a diffuser for bouncy curls and a wide-tooth tension comb that gently stretches and smooths hair. The Straight+Wavy version features an Airsmooth attachment that straightens without a hot plate and a 1.2-inch curling barrel instead. It all bundles up into a sleek case you can easily keep on your vanity or under your sink.

Shipin before using the Dyson Airwrap Co-anda2x Multi-Styler and Dryer

Shanna Shipin

Shipin after using the Dyson Airwrap Co-anda2x Multi-Styler and Dryer

Shanna Shipin

Tester feedback from senior commerce director Shanna Shipin

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“This is the best Dyson tool I have ever tried—period. I have type 3A curly hair that I sometimes wear natural and sometimes blow-dry; this version of the Airwrap gets whatever look I want to achieve done in 15 minutes or less (yes!). This is coming from someone with low-porosity hair that takes seemingly forever to dry. The fact that I can get my curly hair handled before one of my two kids notices I'm gone is a miracle in itself. I love to use the round brush to create gentle tension that makes my blowouts last for days on end; the attachment is a vast improvement over the older version, IMO. This new iteration gets far closer to the roots for a more natural finish. There's zero frizz, all volume, and just the most Farrah Fawcett-like hair of your life—no tugging, singing, or sore arms necessary. And the diffuser? There are two settings, and both are so effective at giving you bouncy and juicy curls. One really amazing feature is that the tool automatically shuts off when it senses that it’s been put down, an unexpected but much-loved perk for routine stylers like me.

If you have the original Airwrap, if you're new to multi-stylers, or if you're Dyson-curious, this is the product to buy—especially in this new Amber Silk color. It’s a pretty warm honey that's more my style than the classic midnight blue. Any Dyson is an investment, and while this one's steep, you'll be able to kiss your curling iron, blow dryer, and straightener goodbye with a single hot tool. For curly girls especially, it's nice to have a tool that feels tailor-made for your routine. The only person I might not recommend it for? A constant traveler who loves doing their hair on the go; the power cord is heavy and not very compact, making this less frequent flier-friendly than other stylers on the market.” —Shanna Shipin, senior commerce director

More to know

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• Best for: all hair types and textures
• Weight: 0.9 lbs
• Wattage: 1600W
• Noise level: moderate
• Attachments: 5

Best for Quick Styling: GHD Duet Blowdry

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GHD

Duet Blowdry

$429

Amazon

$429

Nordstrom

$429

Ulta Beauty

Allure contributing commerce writer Christa Joanna Lee using the GHD Duet Blowdry

Christa Lee

Why it's worth it: Even with a blow-dryer brush that cuts your routine in half, there’s nothing more frustrating than a perfect blowout that deflates the minute you step outside. The GHD Duet Blowdry Hair Dryer Brush could never: It keeps your blowout bouncy and humidity-resistant for up to 24 hours—so even muggy weather won’t ruin your look. Its proprietary Heat-Air Xchange Technology evenly distributes heat and airflow through the brush—while built-in sensors monitor the temperature up to 400 times per second—to speed up drying, smooth frizz, and boost shine without overheating hair. And for damage-conscious stylers, GHD’s clinicals report “no thermal hair damage detected after 100 cycles of four passes on thoroughly towel-dried hair.” Translation: This tool checks every box for a long-lasting, damage-free blowout. “It’s truly effortless and delivers a polished, salon-quality finish in a fraction of the time. The craftsmanship and quality are unmatched,” says Linda Gattineri, a colorist based in Del Mar, California.

Lee before using the GHD Duet Blowdry

Christa Lee

Lee after using the GHD Duet Blowdry

Christa Lee

Tester feedback from contributing commerce writer Christa Joanna Lee

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“My strands usually get wild when I air-dry, but the before photo (at about 80% dry, as GHD instructs) shows the difference—rolling each section down with its smooth tension makes styling easy without tugging. It’s a little heavier than some tools I’ve tested (close to three pounds), but because it dries hair so quickly, you’ll barely notice the weight. I never knew my hair could possibly be this frizz-free and shiny.” —Christa Joanna Lee, contributing commerce writer

More to know

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• Best for: all hair types
• Weight: 2.82 lbs
• Wattage: Approx 260W
• Noise level: moderate
• Attachments: none

Best for Beginners: T3 Airebrush

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T3

Airebrush

$150 $105 (30% off)

Amazon

$150

Sephora

Allure commerce producer Sarah Hoffmann using the T3 Airebrush Duo with the round brush attachment

Sarah Hoffmann

Why it's worth it: New York City-based hairstylist Jennifer Korab calls the T3 Airebrush One Step her go-to blowout brush, especially for beginners, because it has everything you need for easy styling: multiple heat and speed settings, smooth bristles, and a lightweight design. Head’s up (literally): There are two versions of the Airebrush. One is outfitted with an oval head and the other with a round head. We’ve tested and loved both, but there are some key differences. The oval brush is slightly wider in diameter, making it ideal for thicker, longer hair. Its flatter edges help add soft waves, bends, and that just-left-the-salon lift. The round brush, on the other hand, is slimmer and better for shorter hair that doesn’t require as much surface area. It gets into hard-to-reach edges around the crown of the head way easier and creates a sleeker, more polished finish with a subtle flip at the ends. Thanks to the ceramic barrel and smooth bristles, both brushes literally feel like you’re brushing your hair with a comb—no pulling or tugging. Finish with the Cool Shot setting, which activates a burst of cool air to lock in shine and set your style.

Hoffmann before using the T3 Airebrush Duo with the round brush attachment

Sarah Hoffmann

Hoffmann after using the T3 Airebrush Duo with the round brush attachment

Sarah Hoffmann

Tester feedback from commerce producer Sarah Hoffmann

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“This was the first blow-dryer brush I've ever used, so it'll always hold a special place in my heart. It's pretty quiet for how powerful it is, and it's not particularly heavy either. I like holding it upside down and letting my hair wrap around the round barrel as I pull the brush through while twisting. I prefer a curly blowout and find that letting a freshly passed strand cool slightly on the barrel before releasing it really helps maintain the shape for a long time. A little bit of mousse to prep and hairspray to finish really help with longevity too, especially if your hair is textured.” —Sarah Hoffman, commerce producer

More to know

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• Best for: all hair types and textures
• Weight: 16 oz
• Wattage: 1200W
• Noise level: low
• Attachments: 1 (you can purchase it with the oval or round attachment, but they're not interchangeable)

Best for Curly Hair: Shark Glossi Blowout Brush

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Shark

Glossi Blowout Brush

$180 $130 (28% off)

Amazon

$180

Nordstrom

$180

Ulta Beauty

Shipin using the Shark Glossi Blowout Brush

Shanna Shipin

Why it's worth it: If you have curly or coily hair and want a blow-dry brush that protects your texture instead of fighting it, the Shark Glossi Blowout Brush has a teardrop-shaped barrel that hugs close to the roots and gently smooths hair from end to end. Combining a round brush, ceramic hot tool, and air styler in one, it glides through textured hair (no annoying snagging) for quick drying, defined volume, and long-lasting shine. The brand’s Gloss Lock Technology locks in up to 24 hours of frizz-resistant smoothness, while Smart Heat Sense Technology monitors temperature 1,000 times per second to stay below 302°F—the sweet spot in protecting delicate curls prone to breakage.

Shipin before using the Shark Glossi Blowout Brush

Shanna Shipin

Shipin after using the Shark Glossi Blowout Brush

Shanna Shipin

Tester feedback from Shipin

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“My fastest routine hack ever? Using this Shark Glossi brush. This gets me and my curly hair out of the shower and through the front door in 20 minutes, flat. The handle is smaller than the average blow-dryer brush that I've used, making it easier and more comfortable to maneuver around my head (especially important if you're in a rush to begin with), and it can be used on dry or wet hair. I love how straightforward the product is, but be patient with the motions: you'll need to practice a bit to ensure you use the straightening section correctly when transitioning from wet to dry. Once you have it down, the whole thing is a breeze.

It's not a tool I'd use for styling—given that the head is so large, I definitely need to get closer to the roots or S-wave my hair with a straightener—but that's not what it's for! The Glossi is great for quick and smooth utility drying, and would be great for travel. Don't want to chance it on a hotel blow dryer, or pack multiple tools? This is your one and done. (PS: The Shark Speed Style has a much smaller head that lets you style and blow-dry simultaneously; I use this one more often when I have time on my hands.)” —Shanna Shipin, senior commerce director

More to know

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• Best for: all hair types and textures, especially curly or coily hair
• Weight: 1.6 lbs
• Wattage: 1300W
• Noise level: 11.25 amps
• Attachments: none

Best Volumizing: Drybar The Double Shot

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Drybar

The Double Shot

$155

Amazon

$155

Sephora

Former Allure content director Kara McGrath using the Drybar The Double Shot

Kara McGrath

Why it's worth it: The Drybar The Double Shot packs everything we love about visiting a Drybar salon into a handy hot tool. The technology is straightforward: ionic technology reduces frizz, while a combination of nylon and tufted bristles walks a careful line between tension and control. Plentiful vents ensure even, strong airflow that leaves your hair with a springy bounce (without looking like Shirley Temple ringlets). Pro tip: If you have very thick or very long hair, you can do a preliminary rough dry with a regular blow-dryer to prep for The Double Shot.

McGrath before using the Drybar The Double Shot

Kara McGrath

McGrath after using the Drybar The Double Shot

Kara McGrath

Tester feedback from former content director Kara McGrath

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"If you want people to ask if you just got a professional blowout—that is, super smooth with loads of bounce—Drybar’s The Double Shot Oval Blow-Dryer Brush is the tool for you. Since the barrel is larger than others, it gives tons of volume, but is still thin enough to create some curls as well (and to really get into the cowlick that curses my bangs)." —Kara McGrath, former content director

More to know

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• Best for: fine-to-medium hair textures, straight-to-wavy hair types, short-to-medium lengths
• Weight: 2.6 lbs
• Wattage: 1100W
• Noise level: 80.8 dB
• Attachments: none

Best Budget: Revlon One-Step Volumizer Plus 2.0

Save to wishlistSave to wishlist

Revlon

One-Step Volumizer Plus 2.0

$36 $28 (22% off)

Amazon

$66

Ulta Beauty

Allure commerce editor Sarah Han using the Revlon One-Step Volumizer Plus 2.0

Sarah Han

Why it's worth it: If you haven't already seen one of the many Allure editors and TikTokers raving about the award-winning Revlon One-Step Volumizer Plus 2.0, you have some serious catching up to do. This brush's innovative, groundbreaking design (which has inspired many copycats) is so good that we’ve given it not one, but two Allure Best of Beauty Awards. (In fact, the original One-Step arguably started the entire blow-dryer brush trend!) Let’s run through all of its pros: The under-$70 tool has four heat settings that suit different textures and a slightly smaller brush head (compared to the original’s)—so it’s easier for those with shorter hair to use, or if you’re looking for extra volume, and a slimmer handle that's easier to grip. During Best of Beauty testing, one of our editors got away with styling their whole head with just one hand.

Han before using the Revlon One-Step Volumizer Plus 2.0

Sarah Han

Han after using the Revlon One-Step Volumizer Plus 2.0

Sarah Han

Tester feedback from commerce editor Sarah Han

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"I'm no expert at styling my hair, so the more straightforward a tool, the better—so I really appreciate that Revlon's One-Step 2.0 doesn't have much of a learning curve. I wrap my hair in a microfiber towel and wait until it's 75% dry before using low heat. I'll sometimes set my front pieces with the cool shot mode, but I'm not super precious about it. The tool itself is still rather bulky for my liking—even though the top of the handle is slimmer than that of the 1.0—but it gets a good job for the price, and you can probably snag it when it's on sale, too.” —Sarah Han, commerce editor

More to know

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• Best for: all hair types and textures
• Weight: 1.8 lbs
• Wattage: 1100W
• Noise level: 75 dBs
• Attachments: 1

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I get the most out of a hair-dryer brush?

Even with the fanciest hot tool, the key to a glorious blowout starts with prep, prep, and more prep. Always start with clean, detangled, and damp hair with a bit of leave-in conditioner, advises New York City-based hairstylist Takisha Sturdivant-Drew. "Start at the root and work your way down to the ends without putting too much heat or tension on the hair," Sturdivant-Drew explains.

Volume is even easier to achieve, especially for straight or wavy textures. "Twist the dryer as you go in a circular motion to add volume if that's what you are looking for," says Sturdivant-Drew. If your hair is on the curly or coily side and you're going for a sleek look, you can follow up with a flatiron or brush it out with the heat off. "If you want it straight, you should use the blow-dryer brush and, right under it, use another brush to smooth those kinky strands all the way out," she says.

How do I minimize heat damage from a hair-dryer brush?

To minimize the risk of heat damage, opt for a blow-dryer brush that features several temperature settings, so you can better moderate the amount of heat your hair is undergoing. Not all hair types call for the same heat level, so if you're getting acquainted with a new blow-dryer brush, pay attention to how your hair reacts to different temperature settings as you become more familiar with the tool.

Another tried-and-true defense mechanism is to prep your blowout with a heat protectant. Cosmetic chemist Ginger King tells Allure, "If you're using heat styler or any heat products directly on hair, using a heat protectant, usually made with meadowfoam seed oil, light polymers, or even silicone, can help to minimize damage as they can form a coating on hair." But the best way to fend off heat damage is to not overuse heat on your hair—plain and simple.

Are hair-dryer brushes easier to use than traditional hair-dryers?

Choosing a new hair tool is a matter of personal preference, but shoppers and professional hairstylists alike vouch for the ease of use of hair-dryer brushes. “Blow-dry brushes are so incredibly user-friendly—you can achieve a great blow-dry at home without needing pro-level skills. They take about half the time compared to juggling a dryer and a round brush,” says Baker.

Additionally, if you have pain or limited mobility in your hands or arms, a hair-dryer brush is an excellent alternative to a traditional blow-dryer. “Because they’re easier to maneuver, you’re less likely to tire out your arms or need a second round of styling with a flat iron or curling iron,” says Baker. That said, be sure to let your hair air-dry about 70%—or give it a quick rough dry with a traditional blow-dryer—before reaching for your brush. Starting on damp strands helps prevent breakage and ensures a smoother, frizz-free finish, as these tools aren’t designed for sopping-wet hair.

How do I clean my hair-dryer brush?

Hair-dryer brushes come in a range of designs, so depending on the type of barrel, bristles, or shape of your tool, cleaning techniques may vary. "Every brand has different features, but if yours has a filter, remove the dust from it every week," says Devin Toth, a New York City-based hairstylist. "If you are interested in removing hair from the bristles, use either a comb or a boar bristle brush cleaner—a brush used to clean other brushes," he suggests.

To remove product buildup from the bristles of your blow dryer brush, wipe it down with a damp cloth. Cherin Choi, a Los Angeles-based hairstylist, previously told Allure that if product buildup won't budge, she uses a small amount of rubbing alcohol to tackle residue from hairsprays, pomades, and the like.

Remember that cleaning your hot tool regularly is critical to peak performance. "[The product/hair buildup] can prevent your tools from working at full capacity," Atlanta-based hairstylist Tukia Allen told Allure. Brian O'Connor, a Nashville-based hairstylist, agreed with Allen, adding that a hot tool with buildup can lead to the "uneven heating of the hair."

Meet the experts

• Tukia Allen, a stylist based in Atlanta
• Reagan Baker, a stylist and founder of House of Reagan based in New York City
• Cherin Choi, a stylist based in Los Angeles
• Linda Gattineri, a colorist and owner of Equo Co. based in Del Mar, California
• Ginger King, a cosmetic chemist based in Parsippany, New Jersey
• Brian O'Connor, a stylist based in Nashville
• Takisha Sturdivant-Drew, a stylist based in New York City
• Devin Toth, a stylist based in New York City
• Jennifer Korab, a stylist based in New York City

How we test and review products

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

For our review of the best hair-dryer brushes, we enlisted the help of multiple editors, writers, contributors, and stylists—each of whom have different hair types, experiences with hair-drying, and desired outcomes. Testers considered performance across four primary categories: efficacy, versatility, ease of use, and value. For more on what's involved in our reporting, check out our complete reviews process and methodology page.

Our staff and testers

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

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

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A good fragrance has always been an act of branding: You’re woodsy and mysterious, you’re light and fresh, you’re sweet and floral. For many, fragrance is not just an accessory; it’s an identity. So it’s no wonder that consumers today have looked for ways to extend this identity into other categories. If you love smelling like coconut, why not go all in and make everything smell like coconut? That means candles, air fresheners, detergent, and lately, hair care.

Not that great-smelling shampoo is anything new (hello, ’90s Herbal Essences). These days, though, consumers are looking for a high-end, sensorial experience from their hair care. And with the economy in flux, they’re demanding more bang for their buck. It’s not enough that a premium hair-care product makes your hair look and feel great. It should smell great—and maybe even do the dishes for you at a certain price point.

TikTok, as usual, helps the trend along. “PerfumeTok is normalizing scent rituals like layering perfumes, mists, oils, and hair scents as tools for identity and self-expression,” says Amy Rueckl, marketing director of fine fragrance at International Flavors and Fragrances (IFF), a global brand that creates scents and flavors for consumer products. People want to telegraph something about themselves with the way that they smell, that they’re cool and beachy, rich and unbothered, earthy and bohemian. She notes that hair and body mists saw double-digit market growth in early 2025, “proving marketplace demand for lighter, re-applicable scent formats that function as daily accessories.”

Hair care is a natural evolution for fragrance. In fact, those looking to build out a scent wardrobe beyond their wrists may find hair to be an accessible entry point to explore luxury fragrances simply because the format feels familiar. And seemingly everyone is trying to get a piece of the budding market. Fragrance brands, like Fulton & Roark or Byredo, are releasing their own hair-care products. And some hair-care brands, like Ceremonia, Ouai, and Kerastase are capitalizing on signature eau de parfums and turning them into allover hair and body mists. Others are looking to collaborate, like the K18 and Future Society hair mask partnership and last year's Ellis Brooklyn and Amika Miami Nectar Dry Shampoo.

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Fulton & Roark

Formula 5 Oil

$60

Neiman Marcus

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K18 X Future Society

Leave-In Molecular Repair Hair Mask

$75

K18

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Ceremonia

Perfume Mist de Guava

$38

Sephora

$38

Revolve

$38

Credo Beauty

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Ouai

Hair and Body Mist in St. Barts

$28

Amazon

$28

Ulta Beauty

$28

Sephora

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Kérastase

Gloss Absolu Hair Perfume

$39

Sephora

$39

Kohl’s

Why is hair scenting a thing?

The growth of the “hair as scent” category sees no end—largely because it works. “Hair is a fantastic [fragrance] diffuser,” says Kevin Keller, cofounder of Fulton & Roark. “It tends to project more dynamically than on skin because of the relative movement.”

That, and scents tend to last longer on hair. (Ever smell your pillow the night after a bonfire?) “Hair is composed primarily of keratin, a fibrous protein with a complex structure that can bind and trap fragrance molecules,” says Hallie McDonald, MD, an Austin, Texas-based, board-certified dermatologist. “The cuticle, which is the outermost layer of the hair shaft, has overlapping scales that create small spaces where compounds can settle.”

And while the porous nature of hair allows fragrance to really diffuse over time, skin is biologically active. “It produces sweat and sebum and is constantly shedding cells. That contributes to more rapid fragrance evaporation and breakdown.” It also has a warmer surface temperature than hair, which speeds up evaporation.

If you really want to leave a lasting impression, your hair is a good place to start.

Can't I just use eau de parfum in my hair?

“Why would I spend money on a hair fragrance when I could just spray my perfume onto my hair?” you may be asking. Well, that’s a bit like using Febreeze on your wrists as a perfume. Can you do it? Sure. Should you do it? Probably not.

Eau de parfum (EDP) and eau de toilette (EDT), and all the various concentrations therein, rely on alcohol as a carrier and solvent. “Fragrance itself does not inherently hurt the cuticle, but the combination of high alcohol content and repeated exposure can exacerbate dryness and brittleness,” says Dr. McDonald. “Alcohol evaporates quickly, which helps disperse scent, but it can also temporarily strip lipids and moisture from the hair shaft.” Plus, you’re not doing your scalp any favors by spraying irritating ingredients onto it, especially if you have a history of eczema, psoriasis, or seborrheic dermatitis. (Certain ingredients, like cold-pressed citrus oil, can be photosensitizing in very high concentrations, says Dr. McDonald, though it’s uncommon.)

“The fundamental difference comes down to alcohol content,” says Patty Hidalgo, vice president perfumer for IFF. “Hair mists and hair perfumes are formulated with low to no alcohol to avoid drying out or damaging the hair.” And one does not simply drop their fragrance recipe into a conditioner, shake it up, and call it a day. Not only are there regulatory differences and exposure limits, says New York-based perfumer Darryl Do, but certain formulas that are stable in alcohol might not be in an oil or a cream.

“Making a perfume smell good in alcohol is completely different from making a shampoo smell good,” adds fragrance influencer Emma, the perfumer student behind the social media account @perfumerism. “The chemical environments are completely different.”

And since we have higher expectations for our hair-care (and all) products these days, it doesn’t hurt if they also have nourishing ingredients. Dr. McDonald recommends looking for humectants like glycerin (The Signature Scent's hair fragrance contains glycerin and aloe) or panthenol to help retain moisture, conditioning silicones like dimethicone to smooth the cuticle, and lightweight oils for softness (Gisou's hair perfume is formulated with softening argan oil).

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Gisou

Honey Infused Hair Perfume

$44

Amazon

$44

Sephora

$44

Revolve

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Crown Affair

Signature Hair Fragrance

$85

Sephora

Your favorite eau de parfum may smell slightly different as a hair fragrance.

If a brand is attempting to repackage its signature scent as a hair-care product or vice versa, “The challenge is that fragrance DNA is deeply tied to the interaction between the formula and the base it's delivered in. The top notes especially can shift dramatically,” says Keller.

Also, some fragrance notes lend themselves to hair products more than others. “Musks cling to the hair, and woods and ambers can maintain a presence without alcohol lift,” says Do. “Synthetic florals, rather than delicate natural materials, withstand stability, heat, and styling better.”

On the other hand, citrus notes or delicate natural absolutes can be volatile, discolor certain bases, or may just not make sense economically for a rinse-off product. “Vanilla is an example of something that performs well in fine fragrance, but struggles in hair care,” says Emma. “Vanillin is a long-lasting base note in the perfume world, but since it has a low LogP (the measure of the ability of a chemical compound to dissolve in fats and oils) of 1, it is one of the least long-lasting in a hair product.” Ultimately, it’s a delicate balance.

“Maintaining DNA is less about copying the formula and more about capturing the feeling and character of the original—the emotional impression—which requires real creative and technical skill to pull off,” says Keller. One clear example of this is Dyptique’s Orpheon, which smells different as an EDT, EDP, and hair mist. All evoke the same vintage vibe, though. Byredo's Bal D'Afrique smells lighter as a hair perfume than an EDP, but both have a similar creamy, floral essence.

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Diptyque

Orphéon Hair Mist

$85

Diptyque

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Byredo

Bal D’Afrique Hair Perfume

$90

Nordstrom

$90

Macy’s

“Every fragrance is unique and has its own opportunities for ancillary development,” says Hidalgo. “When translating a fragrance that is a signature EDT or EDP, we might soften the top notes or rebalance the heavier base notes, for example, but perfumers approach each fragrance individually as a work of art and science to make sure that the result is as close as possible to the original.”

“Consumers expect it to smell like the original perfume, and it should, but it will most likely not be identical,” adds Do.

How to build your hair-fragrance wardrobe

Buying hair care for the scent isn’t typically meant to replace your daily spritz of eau de parfum (though it’s a great entry point if you haven’t dabbled in fragrance at all). Instead, look at scent for your hair as an extension of your fragrance wardrobe. A way to really immerse yourself and your lifestyle in a signature scent. “Each product adds a different layer,” says Do. “You are building your own fragrance bubble at that point, individualizing it more and more.”

“To avoid overwhelming the senses, it’s best to apply hair perfume lightly, focusing on mid-lengths to ends, and to select scents from complementary fragrance families so they harmonize rather than compete,” says Rachael Larsen, associate fragrance development manager at DSM-Firmenich, who also recommends combing the product through your hair for even distribution. “This approach allows for a layered, multidimensional scent experience that feels cohesive and intentional.”

If layering feels too intimidating, you can stick to one signature scent across products. “The most reliable way to avoid clashing entirely is to layer with the same scent across product formats,” says Keller. “That's a core reason why we offer our fragrances across multiple formats—solid cologne, oil, bar soap, deodorant. You're not just adding fragrance, you're building depth because each format releases scent differently and at different rates, so the cumulative effect is richer and longer-lasting than any single product could achieve alone. And because everything is working from the same olfactory blueprint, nothing competes.”

Athena Club's hair and body mist, for example, is designed to be spritzed on the mid-lengths of the hair and on your body, so you get a full immersion of the scent diffusing differently. They also have matching lotions and deodorants (and sell them in trios) so you can double or triple-down on your favorite fragrance line. Or if you happen to love the scent of Moroccanoil hair products, you can start with their shampoo and conditioner and follow with their EDP on your wrists.

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Athena Club

Hair & Body Mist

$16

Athena Club

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Moroccanoil

L’Originale Moroccanoil Eau de Parfum

$105

Ulta Beauty

$105

Sephora

If you want to build a more dynamic fragrance wardrobe with layered scents and notes, intention is key. “Matching fragrance families usually works well, like woody with woody,” says Do. Contrasting ingredients can also work, says Hidalgo, but it takes some thought. She recommends complementary counterpoints like “clean musk”—clean being on the fresh and bright end of the spectrum, musk having a warmer, earthier feel. They layer like building blocks (heavier musk as the foundation), but both are minimalist and natural, which ties them together well. If this all sounds like a foreign language, check out the notes of your favorite fragrances and see what’s paired together.

The application can also be gamed out for maximum effect: “Stagger or layer formats for peak performance, starting with a scented hair treatment or oil, adding a veil of mist, and finishing with a skin EDP to maximize last and minimize clash,” says Hidalgo.

Ultimately, it’s a personal journey. “There are no firm rules,” says Emma.

Frequently Asked Questions

How we test and review products

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

For our list of the best hair fragrances, we considered each product's performance across five primary categories: product ingredients, efficacy, fragrance, texture, and product wear. Our editorial team, which is composed of in-house writers, editors, and contributors, determined that every product excelled in each category—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.

Meet the experts

• Darryl Do is a perfumer based in New York City.
• Rachael Larsen is associate fragrance development manager for DSM-Firmenich, a fragrance ingredient company.
• Kevin Keller is co-founder of Fulton & Roark.
• Patty Hidalgo is VP perfumer at International Flavors and Fragrances (IFF).
• Amy Rueckl is the marketing director of fine fragrance (North America) at IFF.
• Hallie McDonald, MD, is a board-certified dermatologist based in Austin, TX, and co-founder of ERLY.
• Emma is the owner and operator of @perfumerism, a social media account dedicated to fragrance.

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The best volumizing hair products can be lifesavers for second-day styling, deflated blowouts, and flatness-prone strands. Mousses, sprays, and powders (oh, my!) add dimension and texture to hair that needs a boost, using ingredients like polymers, copolymers, and resins to restore your long-lost zhuzh. Still, you don't need fine or flat hair to benefit from a volumizing hair product. Even people with naturally fuller hair can use these formulas to amp up volume and bounce for that just-left-the-salon look that lasts for days. Interest piqued? Keep scrolling to discover our favorite hair volumizing products to give that crown some well-deserved lift.

Our Top Volumizing Hair Products

• Best Overall: Chris McMillan The Hair Mousse, $36
• Best for Roots: Rōz Root Lift Spray, $42
• Best Brush: Bounce Curl Volume EdgeLift Brush, $30
• Best Diffuser: Bellissima Diffon Supreme Ionic XL Curly Hair Dryer, $169
• Most Long-Lasting Hold: Hours Full-Time Plumping Mousse, $27
• Best for Second-Day Refreshes: Dae Fairy Blaster Texturizing Spray, $30
• Best Heat Protectant: Olaplex Volumizing Blow Dry Mist, $32

Frequently Asked QuestionsAccordionItemContainerButtonLargeChevron

• What does a volumizing hair product do?
• How do I choose a volumizing hair product?
• What should I avoid in a volumizing hair product?
• Meet the experts
• How we test and review products
• Our staff and testers

Best Overall: Chris McMillan The Hair Mousse

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Chris McMillan

The Hair Mousse

$36

Sephora

Allure senior commerce director Shanna Shipin applying the Chris McMillan The Hair Mousse

Shanna Shipin

Why it’s worth it: Chris McMillan’s The Hair Mousse is designed to help you recreate the stylist’s signature lift—no salon appointment required. Lightweight and airy, it’s made with wavy and curly hair in mind, giving coils instant volume and bounce while providing heat protection up to 450 degrees Fahrenheit for diffuser days. The result? A soft, tousled texture with long-lasting hold—no crunch, no touch-ups, just effortless body that lasts. Infused with pine cone and mushroom extracts, the mousse also soothes the scalp and helps repair split ends, giving your curls a much-needed reset.

Shipin before applying the Chris McMillan The Hair Mousse

Shanna Shipin

Shipin after applying the Chris McMillan The Hair Mousse

Shanna Shipin

Tester feedback from Allure senior commerce director Shanna Shipin

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“Hello, one and done! This product is your gel, your curl cream, your finishing product…all in one. It's truly been a game-changer for me, replacing all my products! I shake it up, then release a larger-than-a-golfball size amount and apply it all over. I tend to use it while my hair is slightly towel-dried, then again in the middle of my diffusing session, when it is about 40% dry.

I love that it truly delivers on its promise of volumized, bouncy curls—full stop. It tames a bit of frizz, it defines my coils, and adds some necessary lift at my roots and mid-section. I've never received so many compliments on my hair. A little goes a long way, and if you do overdo it (like any mousse), you may get a little crunch. Just work it out with an oil to finish off styling and it'll soften up immediately. I think this works perfectly for my 3a hair, and I can imagine it working well for waves, too. The $36 price may seem steep, but this mousse and a diffuser are all I need!” —Shanna Shipin, senior commerce director

More to know

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• Key ingredients: mushroom extract, pine cone extract, polymers
• Who it's good for: wavy and curly hair
• Fragrance-free: no

Best for Roots: Rōz Root Lift Spray

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RŌZ

Root Lift Spray

$42

Amazon

$42

Nordstrom

$42

Sephora

Allure commerce editor Sarah Han applying the Rōz Root Lift Spray and blow-drying her hair

Sarah Han

Why it's worth it: Bouncy ends are great—but if your hair is still falling flat at the root, put down the teasing comb and pick up the Rōz Root Lift Spray instead. “This lightweight, buildable mist adds airy volume, touchable texture, and flexible hold without any crunch. It’s infused with ingredients like rice protein and mushroom root extract to strengthen strands and support scalp health—especially helpful if you're not washing daily,” New York City-based hair colorist Lauren Paglionico told Allure. For maximum volume, the brand recommends spritzing this mist on damp roots before using a blow-dryer. You can also use it to refresh day two or three hair—just make sure to hit your strands with the dryer again to get the best, most lifted results.

Paglionico not only recommends the Root Lift Spray to her clients—she even uses it herself. “It delivers impressive volume without weighing the hair down and works beautifully on both fine and medium textures. The mist is ultra-light and never sticky, which makes it easy to layer. I also love the scent—it’s fresh with a subtle floral note that’s never overpowering,” she says.

Han before washing her hair, applying the Rōz Root Lift Spray, and blow-drying

Sarah Han

Han after washing her hair, applying the Rōz Root Lift Spray, and blow-drying

Sarah Han

Tester feedback from commerce editor Sarah Han

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“I have fine hair, but a lot of it, which is the perfect recipe for…zero volume. I'm also downright terrible at styling my hair but I find that the Roz Root Lift Spray is super easy to incorporate into my washday routine. All I have to do is dispense a few hearty spritzes throughout my roots and rough-dry my hair, and voila, instant volume. I appreciate that I don't need any extra products or tools to give my hair a little zhuzh. It's also an excellent refresher for day two (and day three) hair, because your girl does not wash her hair very often, as well as a blowout extender, since my hair doesn't hold styles for long.” —Sarah Han, commerce editor

More to know

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• Key ingredients: rice water, mushroom extract
• Who it's good for: fine to medium hair
• Fragrance-free: no

Best Brush: Bounce Curl Volume EdgeLift Brush

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Bounce Curl

Volume EdgeLift Brush

$30

Amazon

$30

Sephora

Shipin using the Bounce Curl Volume EdgeLift Brush

Shanna Shipin

Why it's worth it: Finding the right brush is just as important as finding a solid mousse or spray when it comes to achieving bouncy, fuller-looking hair. For those with curls and waves, Bounce Curl's Volume EdgeLift Brush checks every box. The flexible bristles (including vegan boar bristles) quickly detangle as they reduce frizz, while the unique edges gently separate your strands for added definition. The larger teeth on top are perfect for tackling bangs or shorter hair. For longer curls and coils, use the thinner teeth on each side. Even the handle is designed to help section your hair, so there's no need for a separate comb. It's the smarter paddle brush you'll wonder how you ever lived without.

Shipin before using the Bounce Curl Volume EdgeLift Brush

Shanna Shipin

Shipin after using the Bounce Curl Volume EdgeLift Brush

Shanna Shipin

Tester feedback from Shipin

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“I don't tend to get any volume at my roots naturally, and usually have to find products and techniques (and hair cuts, for that matter!) that help architect the lift I crave—and the Edgelift brush from Bouncecurl delivers. I get right up to the scalp and turn the brush up, then down, to add what feels like a solid inch of lift at my roots. It's amazing! I also much prefer it to the regular Bouncecurl brush, which is effective at creating larger, more defined clumps (especially since these brushes use synthetic boar bristles to smooth the hair).

I’m going for an Olivia Dean type of volume, and love a little more frizz and life to a perfectly coiffed ‘do, so I love that this brush encourages smaller clumps. When you pair that with smaller sections while defining, it can literally take you hair to new heights.” —Shanna Shipin, senior commerce director

More to know

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• Key ingredients: N/A
• Who it's good for: wavy and curly hair
• Fragrance-free: N/A

Best Diffuser: Bellissima Diffon Supreme Ionic XL Curly Hair Dryer

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Bellissima

Diffon Supreme Ionic XL Curly Hair Dryer

$169

Amazon

Shipin using the Bellissima Diffon Supreme Ionic XL Curly Hair Dryer

Shanna Shipin

Why it's worth it: No more fussing with a pile of loose attachments—Bellissima's Diffon Supreme Ionic XL Curly Hair Dryer has a built-in diffuser with a large bowl that dries curls and coils in a snap (while adding plenty of volume). Multiple heat and speed settings allow you to find the right combination for your strands, whether they're bleached, heat damaged, or frizzy. Plus, there's a temperature control mechanism inside that measures the device's heat 50 times per second, so you're never using more heat than you have to. And, our tester can confirm that the easy-to-hold handle and lightweight, 1.4-pound design won't tire your arms out too quickly. Bouncy, defined, frizz-free curls, here you come.

Shipin before using the Bellissima Diffon Supreme Ionic XL Curly Hair Dryer

Shanna Shipin

Shipin after using the Bellissima Diffon Supreme Ionic XL Curly Hair Dryer

Shanna Shipin

Tester feedback from Shipin

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“"Holy life-changing product! This diffuser gives me the juiciest, most volumized, and simply snatched curls of my life. Yes, it must be used in conjunction with a bang-on styling product (and nothing comes close to Chris McMillan's The Mousse for me), but this diffuser sends your flat, lifeless curls into the stratosphere. Talk about volume! It's lightweight and very easy to hold; that curved shape is nice and ergonomic, which is important if your hair takes a long time to dry. The large bowl is so necessary for anyone with shoulder-length or longer hair—no more second-thought attachments with too-small bowls! It's great for travel, as it's a streamlined, diffuser-only blow dryer that's easier to store than standard L-shaped dryers. It also comes with a pretty little carrying bag to keep things tidy.

This product is a simple, straightforward hair-drying device, which eschews the cumbersome body of a typical blow-dryer and just has a diffuser head—so it's just for curly girls! There are a handful of settings you can choose from to get the head and air speed just right for your curls; there's even an ultra-gentle setting with low heat for those who have severely damaged hair (that's me!). I tend to use the lowest heat and the higher hair drying speed; that results in a somewhat frizzy look, but I'm into that effortless and somewhat undone look right now. I do turn it up to high heat and speed when I'm in a hurry and, man, does it dry fast.

This product is on the pricey side for people who don't always wear their hair curly, but if you're even a once-a-week curly girl, I'd recommend it!"” —Shanna Shipin, senior commerce director

More to know

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• Key ingredients: N/A
• Who it's good for: wavy and curly hair
• Fragrance-free: N/A

Most Long-Lasting Hold: Hours Full-Time Plumping Mousse

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Hours

Full-Time Plumping Mousse

$27

Amazon

$27

Nordstrom

Why it's worth it: The lightweight, foamy, and soft-but-mighty Hours Full-Time Plumping Mousse won an Allure Best of Beauty Award in 2023 and 2024 for its all-day staying power. The formula leans on fatty acids derived from castor oil to help hydrate the scalp and reinforce each strand, creating a good foundation for volume. Once dispensed, the airy propellants in the formula expand and then evaporate, giving the roots a subtle lift as your hair dries. That expansion acts almost like scaffolding, encouraging strands to stand taller. Then, humectants like propylene glycol and butylene glycol draw in moisture, plumping the hair shaft so it looks and feels thicker.

Allure commerce producer Sarah Hoffmann before applying the Hours Full-Time Plumping Mousse

Sarah Hoffmann

Hoffmann after applying the Hours Full-Time Plumping Mousse

Sarah Hoffmann

Tester feedback from commerce producer Sarah Hoffmann

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"Listen, mousse was a dirty word to me for the majority of my life—I did my time in the crunchy curl trenches in middle school—but I've done a full 180 since discovering Hours Plumping Mousse. My hair retains a ton of water post-shower and gets weighed down super easily, but adding two pumps of this to wet hair inflates my hair like a freakin' balloon. It's also responsible for the longest-lasting blowout I've ever had—it's literally a miracle product to me." —Sarah Hoffmann, commerce producer

More to know

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• Key ingredients: propylene glycol, castor oil, sodium polyitaconate
• Who it's good for: those with flat, fine hair that gets weighed down easily
• Fragrance-free: no

Best for Second-Day (or Third-Day) Refreshes: Dae Fairy Blaster Texturizing Spray

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Dae

Fairy Blaster Texturizing Spray

$30

Sephora

Allure managing editor Alessandra Foresto applying the Dae Fairy Blaster Texturizing Spray

Alessandra Foresto

Why it’s worth it: Dae’s Fairy Blaster Texturizing Spray absorbs oil at the roots, making it a great pick for hair that hasn’t been washed in…a few days. But, unlike a dry shampoo, it also adds lift at your roots and bounce throughout the entire hair shaft with zeolite, a volcanic material known to add volume and cleanse the scalp. One spray gives hair a light refresh, while three-plus sprays offer more volume and zhuzh. It features yucca stem extract, indica seed oil, moringa leaf extract, and glycerin, all of which protect hair from environmental damage, improve softness and manageability, reduce breakage, and add shine.

Foresto before applying the Dae Fairy Blaster Texturizing Spray

Alessandra Foresto

Foresto after applying the Dae Fairy Blaster Texturizing Spray

Alessandra Foresto

Tester feedback from managing editor Alessandra Foresto

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“I've been using this spray on day two and three after a wash to give my hair a boost of volume and soak up some oil from my roots. I'm seriously impressed by how much volume a few spritzes of this spray creates. After having my hair in a bun overnight, I like to spray it and tousle my hair and roots to make my waves even bigger. Other times, I spray it on my flatiron-made curls and I find they get a nice beachy look.

The spray bottle is powerful and a little bit goes a long way to give your hair serious lift and texture. It also adds grip to hair so my lackluster French pinning abilities can be more easily hidden. Unlike other texturizing sprays, I find that results last all day and my hair does not fall flat after a few hours. The spray features Dae's nice signature citrus scent too!” —Alessandra Foresto, managing editor

More to know

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• Key ingredients: yucca stem extract, indica seed oil, and moringa leaf extract, glycerin
• Who it's good for: oily, flat hair
• Fragrance-free: no

Best Heat Protectant: Olaplex Volumizing Blow Dry Mist

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Olaplex

Volumizing Blow Dry Mist

$32

Ulta

Allure senior news editor Nicola Dall’Asen applying the Olaplex Volumizing Blow Dry Mist

Why it's worth it: No bouncy blowout is complete without a good heat protectant, like Olaplex’s Volumizing Blow Dry Mist. This 2024 Allure Best of Beauty Award winner safeguards your strands from temperatures up to 450 degrees Fahrenheit while wrapping them in a barely-there veil of defense. Bamboo extract lipopeptides form a weightless, protective film that helps fortify the hair fiber. Pea peptides and jackfruit polysaccharides join the mix to boost hydration and encourage airy lift, minus the frizz. The finish is touchably soft and completely invisible, for hair that looks naturally sky-high.

Tester feedback from former senior news editor Nicola Dall’Asen

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"That any product could create volume on my superfine, color-treated hair is a damn miracle, which means Olaplex's Volumizing Blow Dry Mist is basically a religious deity in my eyes. With a few hearty spritzes of this lightweight spray along my hairline and in my roots—plus some elbow grease with a round brush, of course—I can at last achieve a style that makes me look like I have more hair than I actually do." —Nicola Dall’Asen, former senior news editor

More to know

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• Key ingredients: bamboo extract, pea peptides, radish root ferment
• Who it's good for: people who style with heat regularly
• Fragrance-free: no

Best for Fine Hair: K18 Biomimetic Hairscience AstroLift Reparative Volume Spray

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K18

Biomimetic Hairscience AstroLift Reparative Volume Spray

$46

Amazon

$46

Sephora

Allure features director Dianna Singh applying the K18 AstroLift Reparative Volume Spray

Dianna Singh

Why it’s worth it: Powered by the brand’s biotech-backed peptide complex called K18peptide, which mimics the natural structure of keratin, the Allure Best of Beauty Award-winning Biomimetic Hairscience AstroLift Reparative Volume Spray does more than just add volume. A few spritzes boost fullness while repairing damage and reducing breakage. According to Eddie M. Parra, a hairstylist in New York City, it delivers a conditioning effect (thanks, red algae) without sacrificing lift. And, it has two-day hair memory, so the volume lasts for up to 48 hours whether you apply it on damp or dry hair (it goes on completely invisible either way).

Singh before applying the K18 AstroLift Reparative Volume Spray

Dianna Singh

Singh after applying the K18 AstroLift Reparative Volume Spray

Dianna Singh

Tester feedback from features director Dianna Singh

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"I've tried a lot of volumizers in my day, and I've found a handful that deliver oomph immediately—but very few that add volume that lasts. This spray is one of those rare gems: I apply it in damp hair, blow-dry, and then enjoy the extra bounce well into the following day." —Dianna Singh, features director

More to know

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• Key ingredients: red algae, arginine, K18peptide, polymers
• Who it's good for: flat, damaged hair
• Fragrance-free: no

Best for Oily Hair: Oribe Dry Texturizing Spray

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Oribe

Dry Texturizing Spray

$52

Amazon

$52

Nordstrom

Allure content director Sophia Paynch applying the Oribe Dry Texturizing Spray

Sophie Panych

Why it's worth it: So, you got a blowout yesterday—but this morning's Pilates class did a number on your hair. Before you panic, Oribe's Dry Texturizing Spray is here to save the day. Yes, it adds volume and definition, but it also absorbs oil—think of it as a dry shampoo and a texturizing spray in one (very chic) bottle. The formula relies on zeolite crystallines, which add rough texture to your lengths while absorbing oil at the root. The spray also features Oribe’s Signature Complex, a brand hallmark that includes watermelon, lychee, and edelweiss flower to defend hair from drying and damaging oxidative stress. Pro tip: “Hit [hair] with the dryer again after spraying for volume at the root that lasts for days,” says Kate Johnson, hairstylist and founder of the Bridal Beauty Team. And, like all products in the Oribe lineup, it’s finished with the brand’s classic Côte d'Azur scent, which has notes of sandalwood, jasmine, and bergamot.

Paynch before applying the Oribe Dry Texturizing Spray

Sophie Panych

Paynch after applying the Oribe Dry Texturizing Spray

Sophie Panych

Tester feedback from content director Sophia Paynch

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“My relationship with Oribe Dry Texturizing Spray has lasted longer than all of my romantic ones—even counting my husband (we've been together for almost nine years, and I've owned a can of this stuff for almost 15 years). Any professional hairstylist will agree that it's just one of those products that's good to always have handy when you want a little volume, a little texture, or just a little zhuzh in general. I spray it into my hair after it's been rough-dried, air-dried, or nicely blow-dried. It works all the same. I usually blast each side for about five seconds, making sure to get the under layers of my hair. Then, I'll flip my head upside down and spray it in that way, too. It's light as air, smells amazing, and is truly multi-purpose.

It lifts roots like a dry shampoo, adds light hold like a flexible hairspray, and adds texture like a beach spray. It makes fine hair like mine look and feel five times thicker, and while it does make your hair feel a bit dry to the touch, it never looks that way.” —Sophia Paynch, content director

More to know

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• Key ingredients: zeolite crystallines, ginger root extract, kiwi extract
• Who it's good for: people who work out or sweat a lot
• Fragrance-free: no

Best for Frizz: Davines OI Soufflé

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Davines

OI Soufflé

$50

Amazon

$50

Nordstrom

$50

Sephora

Why it’s worth it: Made with antioxidant-rich roucou oil and softening chicory root extract, Davines’ OI Souffle is a hair-plumping mousse that delivers serious shine and volume, with none of the crunch. It also offers heat protection up to 446 degrees Fahrenheit, making it a great prep step before blow-drying for an extra full, bouncy finish. Once you apply it, you’ll notice how much silkier and smoother your hair feels, and when it’s dry, there won’t be any frizz left behind. Whether you’re defining curls or adding lift to straight strands, this is a solid pick—especially if your hair tends to puff up the second you step outside.

Tester feedback from former commerce writer Lily Wohlner

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“Humidity is my curly hair’s worst enemy, so when I’m rockin’ my natural waves, I always know Davines’ OI Mousse has my back in times of need. After showering, I scrunch it into my hair and I feel confident walking out the door on a rainy day or a scorcher, knowing my curls will stay right where I left them. Oh, and I have to mention the floral and clean scent of the entire OI line—I literally get compliments on it whenever I use it, with people asking me what perfume I’m wearing.” —Lily Wohlner, former commerce writer

More to know

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• Key ingredients: roucou oil, chicory root extract
• Who it's good for: those with frizzy hair
• Fragrance-free: no

Best for Softness: R+Co Rodeo Star Thickening Foam

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R+Co

Rodeo Star Thickening Foam

$38

Amazon

$38

Nordstrom

$38

Dermstore

Why it’s worth it: R+Co’s Rodeo Star Thickening Foam delivers non-sticky volume with a soft feel, says Victoria McLeod, a hairstylist based in Atlanta. It incorporates skin-care ingredients, like vitamin E to deeply condition, kiwi fruit extract to help retain moisture, and aloe vera leaf extract to minimize breakage and add shine. Yes, it gives hair that fuller, bouncier look—but it also leaves strands feeling so soft, you’ll want to run your fingers through them all day long.

More to know

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• Key ingredients: vitamin E, kiwi fruit extract, aloe leaf extract
• Who it’s good for: frizzy, dry hair
• Fragrance-free: no

Best for Extending Styles: Redken Stay High Mousse

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Redken

Stay High Mousse

$31

Amazon

$31

Ulta Beauty

Why it’s worth it: “Redken’s Stay High Mousse is thick and has a lot of stiff texture to it, so it holds fine hair up in a way that a lot of volumizing products don’t,” says Johnson. She adds that the volume stays put all day long, whether you apply it only at the roots or throughout your hair shaft.“ Just make sure to use a small amount and run it through wet hair section by section before blow-drying,” she advises. It immediately melts into hair, never feels sticky, and hydrates and strengthens with help from castor oil. A win-win-win, in our book.

More to know

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• Key ingredients: castor oil, polymers
• Who it's good for: all hair types
• Fragrance-free: no

Best for Air Drying: Crown Affair The Air Dry Texturizing Air Dry Mousse

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Crown Affair

The Air Dry Texturizing Air Dry Mousse

$38

Sephora

$38

Violet Grey

Allure social media manager Bianca Richards after applying the Crown Affair The Air Dry Texturizing Air Dry Mousse

Why it’s worth it: Don’t let the word “mousse” scare you away—Crown Affair’s The Air Dry Texturizing Air Dry Mousse always leaves strands feeling flexible and soft, which is partly why it won a 2024 Allure Best of Beauty Award. Infused with nourishing tsubaki meadow oil, texturizing pink salt, and a plant blend of kale, carrot, and lemon extracts that, together, strengthen and add moisture, this featherlight formula hydrates, de-frizzes, and disappears upon contact—though the results stick around for hours. “It's perfect for enhancing curls, giving you good volume and a strong hold that will last,” Katelyn Ellsworth, a hairstylist based in San Diego, CA, told Allure. It’s our go-to for days when we skip heat styling, but still want natural movement and airy volume. When it’s time to re-style your hair the next day, you can brush right through your strands without worrying about any leftover stickiness or residue.

Richards before applying the Crown Affair The Air Dry Texturizing Air Dry Mousse

Richards after applying the Crown Affair The Air Dry Texturizing Air Dry Mousse

Bianca Richards

Tester feedback from social media manager Bianca Richards

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“I love how seamlessly the Crown Affair The Texturizing Air Dry Hair Mousse fits into my low-maintenance, low-effort haircare routine, and it leaves my hair looking the best I've ever felt in my natural state. It’s a super low-lift way to achieve that effortless, undone look. Unlike other mousses, it doesn’t leave your hair feeling crunchy—which is the best part!” —Bianca Richards, social media manager

More to know

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• Key ingredients: tsbukai meadow oil, pink salt, plant protein blend (kale, carrot, lemon)
• Who it's good for: those who like to air-dry their hair
• Fragrance-free: no

Frequently Asked Questions

What does a volumizing hair product do?

According to Toth, a volumizing hair product lifts roots from the scalp. "Some are simply weightless, some give incredible hold and texture, and some coat and surround each strand of hair," he says.

Raven Hurtado, a Chicago-based hairstylist, echoed Toth. He told Allure, "It works great for updos, and you could also use it as a dry shampoo." Hurtado explains, "You can also touch up your second-day blowout without having any residue."

While healthy hair can benefit from hair volumizing products, they can also help support damaged locks. Cosmetic chemist Ginger King told Allure, "Heredity, stress, poor nutrition, improper care of hair, and environmental damage (such as sunlight and harsh brushing)" can all be potential causes of thinning hair. If that sounds like you, a hair volumizing product could make a big difference, either as a permanent solution or to tide you over while going on a regrowth journey.

How do I choose a volumizing hair product?

Many products claim to be effective volumizers. But before you hedge your bets on a bottle, it's essential to know your hair type and your desired style. Santiago recommends using a root spray or a mousse before blow-drying if you want your hair to be more touchable and smooth. "If you like feeling your hair more textured, an aerosol spray or volume powder is a great choice," she adds. If you're just getting into the hair volumizing game, you might need to try a few different products before you land your best option.

What should I avoid in a volumizing hair product?

King previously told Allure to be wary of heavy oils and silicones, since "not all oils or silicones are created equal." She mentions that, while they can provide benefits like softening and hydrating, coconut and jojoba are weightier than other oils. Silicones also vary in weight and grade—but you don't need to be a scientist to determine which is which. "If it feels greasy on your fingers, chances are it will weigh down your hair," King advises.

Meet the experts

• Mia Santiago, a New York City-based hairstylist
• Devin Toth, a New York City-based hairstylist
• Lauren Paglionico, a New York City-based hair colorist
• Raven Hurtado, a Chicago-based hairstylist at Maxine Salon
• Ginger King, a cosmetic chemist
• Kate Johnson, a hairstylist and founder of the Bridal Beauty Team
• Victoria McLeod, a hairstylist based in Atlanta, Georgia

How we test and review products

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

For our review of volumizing hair products, we enlisted the help of multiple editors, writers, contributors, cosmetic chemists, and makeup artists—who have a range of experience studying and using these products. Testers considered performance across four primary categories: efficacy, texture, experience, and formula. 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.

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What's your season? ICYMI, seasonal color analysis has made quite the comeback in recent years, and if you're in the market for some soft summer makeup inspiration, look no further than Julia Fox, whose vintage pageant queen glam details are equal parts sweet and cool.

While we don't know Fox's exact color season—she feels like a winter to me—she was definitely serving up a pretty-in-pastel palette at the 2026 Accessories Council Excellence Awards with her head-to-toe Betsey Johnson ensemble, tiara, and matching hair and makeup. (While you'd think spring would be a cool-toned palette in the Color Me Beautiful world, it's actually warm; summer is the cooler palette!)

The actor leaned into light, sugary-sweet tones, starting with the butter yellow tulle prom dress and carrying soft, light shades through to her makeup. Her lips and cheeks were a similar shade of cool-toned, prom-queen pink, with her blush concentrated on her cheekbones and upward. On her eyes, Fox chose a misty gray shadow, which she wore brushed across her entire lid, softly diffused out for just a hint of color. I was expecting to see thick, '60s-style winged-out liner to match the retro vibes of the poufy dress, but Fox skipped it in favor of just a few strokes of mascara on both top and bottom lashes.

Getty Images

You can't channel a retro pageant queen without big hair! Fox's hairstylist definitely pulled out the teasing comb for this one; the star wore her shoulder-length hair down with lots of volume at the crown—not quite Priscilla Presley-worthy volume, but an obvious “oomph” that set the stage for her adorable hair accessory: a classic small tiara accented with a pastel floral corsage.

Fox often embraces vintage details in her ever-changing beauty routine. During New York Fashion Week, she channeled a living doll with big, bouncy ringlets and purple-gray eye shadow, and at the 2026 Fashion Trust Awards, she looked like she walked right off the set of Valley of the Dolls, complete with a bouffant and baby pink lipstick. It might just be time to add a princessy pink shade or two to your spring and summer makeup rotation.

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Madonna never fails to turn the Met Gala into her own personal runway, and the 2026 version was no exception. The Material Girl, who is gearing up for the release of her much-anticipated album Confessions II, had a surprise in store this year: brunette hair!

Though Madge is a natural brunette, she's been (mostly) blonde for the majority of her career. For the Met, however, she changed things up in a big way, and while she may be revisiting the Confessions on a Dance Floor era musically, this aesthetic was much more Ray of Light coded.

It all centered around the couture wig crafted by artisan wig maker Merria Dearman. “The look was rooted in an obscure feminist artist. It was surreal, textural, and emotionally driven rather than literal,” Dearman explained in a statement. “From the beginning, it was never about perfection. It was about feeling.” According to Dearman, Madonna saw a wig she'd created on set and said she wanted—no, needed—one. The wig was built with traditional wig-making techniques, and Dearman describes the direction as “instinctive but precise” and “long, full, and rich in texture.” Though it looked black on the carpet, especially with the top hat and ship headpiece and long veil, it was actually a deep brown, “with ends that softened and diffused like hair that has grown untouched for years."

Getty Images

Madonna's hair was styled by Eugene Souleiman in waves with lots of texture and movement, reminding us of her long, dark hair in the “Frozen” music video; Dearman describes the final look as “abstract, almost otherworldly” and said the look was inspired by an “obscure feminist artist"— Leonora Carrington, to be exact. Will the brunette stick around? Probably not, but we're loving this quick foray into the dark side!

Check out more major beauty moments from this year's Met Gala:

• Nicole Kidman Went Full Rapunzel at the 2026 Met Gala
• Laufey's Met Gala Waves Were Totally Timeless
• The Best Beauty Moments at the 2026 Met Gala
• Misty Copeland's Met Gala Beauty Inspiration? A Post-Ballet Class Pony
• Sabrina Carpenter's Met Gala Hair Put a New Spin on the Faux Bob

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The best cream blushes are your cheat code for a fresh, healthy-looking glow in an instant—just dab, blend, and go. Unlike most powders, these buttery cheek tints add a radiant sheen to skin that mimics the effects of an hour-long jog on the beach or a luxurious facial. On top of their dewy finishes, cream blushes tend to be more buildable (read: forgiving) than powder or liquid variations—so, if you suffer from blush blindness, a cream-based option is your key to a more natural effect. Curious to know which ones made the Allure cut? Keep scrolling to shop the cream blushes that have stolen our hearts (and our shelf space).

Our Top Cream Blushes

• Best Overall: Rhode Pocket Blush, $25
• Best Sheer Finish: Summer Fridays Blush Butter Balm, $26
• Best Semi-Matte: Rare Beauty Soft Pinch Matte Bouncy Blush, $27
• Best Multipurpose: Tower 28 Beach Please Cream Blush, $20
• Best Drugstore: e.l.f. Cosmetics Monochromatic Multi Stick, $6

Frequently Asked QuestionsAccordionItemContainerButtonLargeChevron

• Is cream blush better than powder blush?
• How should I apply cream blush?
• Meet the experts
• How we test and review products
• Our staff and testers

Best Overall: Rhode Pocket Blush

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Rhode

Pocket Blush

$25

Sephora

$25

Rhode

Allure commerce editor Sarah Han applying the Rhode Pocket Blush in Toasted Teddy

Sarah Han

Why it’s worth it: Is it any surprise that Rhode Pocket Blush is an Allure Readers' Choice Award winner for most viral product? Besides being perfectly portable for travel and on-the-go use, this top-tier blush stick is super easy to blend out without a brush—whether you're just tinting your cheeks or spreading the love to your eyelids and lips for a cute monochrome moment. “I love to apply this with my fingertips—it leaves you with just enough of a sheer glow,” Jordon Tiller, a makeup artist based in NYC, attests. The result is a true satin finish, thanks to moisture-boosting glycerin, plumping peptides, and diffusing kaolin, a.k.a. a very well-balanced ingredient lineup.

The shade range keeps growing, too, so there's truly something for everyone's skin tone and preferences. (For the record, we think Toasted Teddy, Date Cake, and Candy Apple look especially beautiful on brown skin.)

Allure associate beauty editor Annie Blay-Tettey applying the Rhode Pocket Blush in Toasted Teddy

Annie Blay-Tettey

Blay-Tettey after applying the Rhode Pocket Blush in Toasted Teddy

Annie Blay-Tettey

Tester feedback from Allure commerce editor Sarah Han

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“Beyond how uber cute these blushes are, they're so buttery and easy to blend out. I actually like to use my fingers to dab the product in before using a brush to diffuse any harsh lines—but, in a pinch, just fingers also do the trick. If I want to build up the pigment (which I usually do), I'll go in with a second layer by picking up some product directly with my brush and lightly tapping it in. Extra buildable? Heck yeah. They also come in the prettiest colors. I'd normally never reach for a bronze terracotta (I lean heavily into pinks) but Toasted Teddy just has that ‘je ne sais’ quoi factor I can't get enough of. Leave it to Bieber to convince me to stray from my usual palette!” —Sarah Han, commerce editor

Tester feedback from Allure associate beauty editor Annie Blay-Tettey

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“I love a no-makeup makeup look, and when I need just a touch of color to bring my complexion to life, I reach for the Rhode Pocket Blush in the shade Toasted Teddy. I love how the dark terracotta shade complements my skin tone and gives me a pretty, sun-flushed look. Plus, the creamy texture is easy to blend out, and the pocket-size stick makes it great for on-the-go application.” —Annie Blay-Tettey, associate beauty editor

More to know

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• Key ingredients: kaolin, glycerin, calophyllum inophyllum (tamanu) seed oil, peptides
• Finish: satin
• Shades: 13

Best Sheer Finish: Summer Fridays Blush Butter Balm

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Summer Fridays

Blush Butter Balm

$26

Amazon

$26

Sephora

$26

Summer Fridays

Allure senior commerce director Shanna Shipin applying the Summer Fridays Blush Butter Balm

Shanna Shipin

Why it’s worth it: The Summer Fridays Blush Butter Balm’s creamy formula is a dream on dry skin, as it leaves your complexion looking and feeling hydrated. How? It’s loaded with skin care-forward ingredients like plumping peptides, hydrating hyaluronic acid, and moisturizing shea butter. It imparts a fresh, dewy glow, like you spent just the right amount of time in the sun (whatever that might look like for you). Thanks to its flexible formula, you can build it up or sheer it out easily. And, as with many cream blushes on this list, this one looks just as good on the lips if you're into the monochromatic look.

Shipin before applying the Summer Fridays Blush Butter Balm

Shanna Shipin

Shipin after applying the Summer Fridays Blush Butter Balm

Shanna Shipin

Tester feedback from Allure senior commerce director Shanna Shipin

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"It is so rare for me to hit the pan for a blush, but I SCRAPE the beautiful bits of this blush when I get down to the end. I use this for everything and everywhere—of course as a subtle flush or wow-worthy pop of color on the cheeks, over the nose for a cute sunkissed look, and on the eyes for some pigment. One thing that may be underrated for this blush is that it is so, so great on the lips as well. I use a liner and the blush, and I'm set; it's multipurpose in the best way. I have eczema-laden skin, and it hasn't flared up over many months of use; it also doesn't accentuate any dry spots, and instead leaves the skin with a healthy, bouncy-looking finish.

This formula melts into the fingers and onto the skin, so you don't need to tug to get it to blend. It's simultaneously buildable and forgivable if you add too much. The shade range is great (Terracotta is my all-time favorite for my medium skin), and while you can use your fingers, I highly recommend the corresponding dual-ended brush—it is so versatile and even blends skin tint foundations like a dream." —Shanna Shipin, senior commerce director

More to know

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• Key ingredients: peptides, hyaluronic acid, shea butter
• Finish: dewy
• Shades: 6

Best Semi-Matte: Rare Beauty Soft Pinch Matte Bouncy Blush

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Best Cream Blush

Rare Beauty Soft Pinch Matte Bouncy Blush

$27

Sephora

Allure former content director Kara McGrath applying the Rare Beauty Soft Pinch Matte Bouncy Blush in Happy

Why it’s worth it: Hello, award winner. Rare Beauty took home best cream blush in our 2025 Allure Best of Beauty Awards with the cream-to-powder Soft Pinch Matte Bouncy Blush. If you love a soft-focus, blurred finish over a dewier one, this formula is the one. And trust, it's on the airier side of matte finishes—thanks to plumping cacao seed and moisturizing fruit oils—so it won't feel heavy, settle into fine lines by the end of the day, or worse yet, disappear when exposed to humidity and sweat. Whether you tap the product on with your fingers (the putty-like texture is so fun to play with!) or buff it on with your favorite brush, you achieve a romantic flush of color that truly looks like you're blushing from within.

McGrath before applying the Rare Beauty Soft Pinch Matte Bouncy Blush

McGrath after applying the Rare Beauty Soft Pinch Matte Bouncy Blush

Tester feedback from Allure former content director Kara McGrath

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“When I saw it in the pan, I was worried that the shade Happy—a cool-toned peony pink—would be too intense for my complexion, but it goes on sheer and melts into the skin. If you’re looking for a brighter pop of color, adding a second or third layer ups the saturation without taking you into clown territory.” —Kara McGrath, former content director

More to know

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• Key ingredients: cacao seed, pomegranate, papaya seed, and rosehip oils
• Finish: matte
• Shades: 7

Best Matte Finish: Charlotte Tilbury Pillow Talk Matte Beauty Blush Wand

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Charlotte Tilbury

Pillow Talk Matte Beauty Blush Wand

$44

Amazon

$44

Nordstrom

$44

Ulta Beauty

McGrath applying the Charlotte Tilbury Pillow Talk Matte Beauty Blush Wand

Kara McGrath

Why it's worth it: If there's one blush that's taken over just about every Allure editor's cheeks, it's the TikTok-viral Charlotte Tilbury Pillow Talk Matte Beauty Blush Wand. Unlike many of the ultra-dewy blushes on the market, this one has a mattifying finish and a formula that's spiked with radiance-boosting silica spheres for a skin-like effect.

Tilbury told us that you should apply it to the tops of your cheekbones to lift the face. "Never start too low," she said. “It pulls your cheeks down.” During testing, we were struck by how much punch this formula packs in just one tap. The cushion-tip applicator is a standout—it delivers the perfect dose of pigment exactly where you want it, so there’s no guesswork. You can dot on a single tap for a soft wash of color or build it up with a few more for extra brightness. Then simply blend it out with a brush or your fingers.

McGrath before applying the Charlotte Tilbury Pillow Talk Matte Beauty Blush Wand

Kara McGrath

McGrath after applying the Charlotte Tilbury Pillow Talk Matte Beauty Blush Wand

Kara McGrath

Tester feedback from McGrath

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"When I want a blush that’s going to melt right onto my skin, I reach for the Charlotte Tilbury Matte Beauty Blush Wand in Pillow Talk Pink Pop. Although it’s a matte formula, it plays well with creamy base products, blending easily to give me a pink-peachy glow."—Kara McGrath, former content director

More to know

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• Key ingredients: silica spheres
• Finish: matte
• Shades: 4

Best Drugstore: e.l.f. Cosmetics Monochromatic Multi Stick

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E.L.F. Cosmetics

Monochromatic Multi Stick

$6

Amazon

$6

Walmart

Allure senior commerce editor Sarah Felbin applying the e.l.f. Cosmetics Monochromatic Multi Stick in Glimmering Guava

Sarah Felbin

Why it’s worth it: What better representation of a brand name (e.l.f. Cosmetics) that stands for eyes, lips, and face, than the Monochromatic Multi Stick? Ringing in at just $6—and available at your local drugstore for the ultimate convenience—this blush stick is a dreamy deal. And with seven shades, you won't feel the least guilty grabbing two. (Besides, how fun is it to mix and match different shades across your lids, cheeks, and lips?) This cream-to-powder formula gives you plenty of time to blend and build to your desired intensity before it sets into a natural finish.

Felbin before applying the e.l.f. Cosmetics Monochromatic Multi Stick in Glimmering Guava

Sarah Felbin

Felbin after applying the e.l.f. Cosmetics Monochromatic Multi Stick in Glimmering Guava

Sarah Felbin

Tester feedback from senior commerce editor Sarah Felbin

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“I'm usually not a fan of stick blushes—they tend to go patchy on me. But e.l.f.'s pocket-size stick is super soft and creamy—it glides right onto my cheeks and lips and blends out in seconds. Plus, it's pretty pigmented (I was pleasantly surprised the first time I tried it—you don't need a ton of swipes to get great color payoff) and has the slightest bit of shimmer that gives me a nice glow. I love that it's bright enough that I can wear it on its own or layer a powder blush on top for more staying power. Here, I'm using Glimmering Guava, but I'm already on the hunt for another shade or two to add to my collection.” —Sarah Felbin, senior commerce editor

More to know

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• Key ingredients: shea butter, vitamin E
• Finish: natural
• Shades: 7

Best Blurring: Danessa Myricks Beauty Yummy Skin Blurring Balm Powder Flushed

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Danessa Myricks Beauty

Yummy Skin Blurring Balm Powder Flushed

$27

Sephora

$27

Danessa Myricks Beauty

Han applying the Danessa Myricks Beauty Yummy Skin Blurring Balm Powder Flushed

Sarah Han

Why it's worth it: Danessa Myricks Beauty is no stranger to Best of Beauty Awards. The Best of Beauty-winning Yummy Skin Blurring Balm Powder Flushed is a follow-up to a Breakthroughs winner (our highest honor, due to this category's high standards around innovation), the balm-to-powder foundation, so it's a given that we'd love this blush at first swipe. Just like its predecessor, this formula applies like a creamy balm and dries down to a powder-like matte texture—thanks a balanced combo of upsalite and olive-derived squalane—allowing for a more natural-looking flush. (We found that it works best applied with a brush instead of your fingertips; however, since it dries down pretty quickly.) The 11 shades also deserve a shoutout for their vibrant pigments, which can be blended out for subtlety or layered for a more dramatic effect.

Han before applying the Danessa Myricks Beauty Yummy Skin Blurring Balm Powder Flushed

Sarah Han

Han after applying the Danessa Myricks Beauty Yummy Skin Blurring Balm Powder Flushed

Sarah Han

Blay-Tettey before applying the Danessa Myricks Beauty Yummy Skin Blurring Balm Powder Flushed

Annie Blay-Tettey

Blay-Tettey after applying the Danessa Myricks Beauty Yummy Skin Blurring Balm Powder Flushed

Tester feedback from Han

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“Like all Danessa Myricks products, this blush does not come to play when it comes to pigment payoff. My favorite shade (that I'm wearing above) is Primadonna, a hot pink shade that makes me feel extra cute and confident. All I need are a few taps to achieve a ‘wow’ factor—it's one of those rare blushes that I don't find myself always going in with a second layer. My combo skin also appreciates the brand's signature upsalite, which helps absorb excess sebum that forms throughout the day and lends my skin a soft-blurred focus. We love!!” —Sarah Han, commerce editor

Tester feedback from Blay-Tettey

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"I was wowed at the amount of pigment I got from just a few taps in the blush pan and how it played with my foundation and concealer to create a seamless blend. Also, as pigmented as the blush is, it's not overwhelming. You can build it up for a bold flush of color or just add a subtle tinge of rosiness to the cheeks, which is what I like to do. Sometimes I’ll apply it as a finishing touch to reinforce my initial cream blush. Other times I’ll use it as my sole blush, applying it once after concealer as a cream blush, and then again when my face is near complete as a powder blush."—Annie Blay-Tettey, associate beauty editor

More to know

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• Key ingredients: upsalite, squalane, hyaluronic acid
• Finish: satin
• Shades: 11

Best Multipurpose: Tower 28 Beach Please Cream Blush

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Tower 28

Beach Please Cream Blush

$20

Amazon

$20

Sephora

$20

Revolve

Allure social media manager Bianca Richards applying the Tower 28 Beach Please Cream Blush in Golden Hour

Bianca Richards

Why it's worth it: Tower 28’s Best of Beauty-winning BeachPlease Cream Blush is basically summer in a compact—perfect for when you’re desperate for a little color in the dead of winter (or in general). The creamy formula comes in 10 shades that blend so effortlessly, you can tap them in with your fingers—no brush needed. It’s the kind of foolproof flush we stash in our work bags for touch-ups on the fly. Like all the best multitaskers, this blush works on cheeks, eyes, and lips, and has a satisfying slip and sheen, thanks to nourishing ingredients like shea butter, castor oil, and jojoba oil.

Where it really shines, though, is in the sensitive-skin–friendly formula—hypoallergenic, dermatologist-approved, and clinically tested to be non-irritating—so that even those with reactive skin and eyes can swipe it across their lids without a second thought. The result is a sun-kissed glow that lasts all day.

Richards before applying Tower 28 Beach Please Cream Blush in Golden Hour

Bianca Richards

Richards after applying Tower 28 Beach Please Cream Blush in Golden Hour

Bianca Richards

Tester feedback from Allure social media manager Bianca Richards

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“I’ve hit pan on this cream blush more times than I can count (as you can see)—and for good reason! The color payoff from Tower28’s cream blush is unmatched. The shade Golden Hour gives the perfect sun-kissed glow that’s radiant and beautifully complements my skin tone.” —Bianca Richards, social media manager

More to know

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• Key ingredients: shea butter, castor oil, jojoba oil
• Finish: dewy
• Shades: 10

Best for Mature Skin: Westman Atelier Baby Cheeks Blush Stick

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Westman Atelier

Baby Cheeks Blush Stick

$48

Nordstrom

$48

Sephora

Allure contributing commerce editor Deanna Pai applying the Baby Cheeks Lip + Cheek Cream Blush in Bichette

Deanna Pai

Why it's worth it: Some makeup can accentuate fine lines and wrinkles—but not Westman Atelier's Baby Cheeks Blush Stick. It has a creamy, satin finish that sits beautifully on top of the skin without settling into texture. How? It contains moisture-replenishing ingredients like jojoba seed oil, grape extract, and raspberry seed extract to firm and condition skin. They melt into skin on contact for a smooth, supple finish that’s never chalky or heavy.

Pai before applying the Westman Atelier Baby Cheeks Cream Blush

Deanna Pai

Pai after applying the Westman Atelier Baby Cheeks Cream Blush

Deanna Pai

Tester feedback from Allure contributing commerce editor Deanna Pai

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“While I'm a powder blush stan, there's nothing like this cream formula to give my skin the most natural-looking pop of color ever. The velvety texture melts into my skin and feels like nothing, and I love that I can dab a little on my nose and chin to make my skin look almost sun-kissed—like I just got back from a long walk. Plus, a tiny bit goes a long way, so this stick will last me forever.”—Deanna Pai, contributing commerce editor

More to know

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• Key ingredients: jojoba seed oil, grape extract, raspberry seed extract
• Finish: satin
• Shades: 8

Best Natural Finish: Nars the Multiple

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Nars

The Multiple

$40

Nordstrom

$40

Sephora

$40

Ulta Beauty

Allure commerce producer Sarah Hoffmann applying Nars The Multiple

Sarah Hoffmann

Why it’s worth it: Nars The Multiple is proof that you don't always need to buy the latest and greatest. Well, almost—let us explain. First launched in 1996, this icon has been slightly revamped (similarly to its powder blush sibling) with an even more skin-loving formula powered by nourishing peach kernel oil, antioxidant-rich rhubarb fruit extract, and soft-focus blurring powders.

And, loyalists, do not be alarmed: The new iteration is clearly up to par with the original, as evidenced by its 2025 Best of Beauty Award winner seal. The finish is silky, slightly blurred, and all-around pretty close to perfection, and all 12 shades are super wearable—even the purple- and red-leaning hues.

Hoffmann before applying Nars The Multiple

Sarah Hoffmann

Hoffmann after applying Nars The Multiple

Sarah Hoffmann

Tester feedback from Allure commerce producer Sarah Hoffmann

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“A Nars Multiple is one of the first beauty products I ever bought back when I invented being a Sephora teen in 2010. It cost at least a few evenings of babysitting and I was so excited about it I kept the box for months—I'm not kidding. The recent reformulation is everything a nostalgic shopper like me could want. It's the same buttery texture I remember, but now it's even more blendable, silkier, and glowier. I'm not sure how it manages to be the perfect texture and shade for both lips and cheeks, but the cosmetic chemists at Nars cooked up something truly special here.” —Sarah Hoffmann, commerce producer

More to know

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• Key ingredients: peach kernel oil, rhubarb fruit extract, silica, and mica (blurring powders)
• Finish: natural
• Shades: 12

Frequently Asked Questions

Is cream blush better than powder blush?

It's up to you, as cream and powder blush formulas both have their time and place. That said, cream blushes usually contain conditioning oils, making them more moisturizing than their powdery counterparts (take note, dry skin types). They also won't highlight textured areas of the skin or crease in wrinkles like powder blushes can, making them great for mature skin types. While liquid blushes provide similar effects, creams are more buildable, with sheer-to-medium coverage that isn’t as dramatically pigmented as liquids often are.

How should I apply cream blush?

First, finding a complementary shade to your skin tone is key for a natural-looking finish. As a rule of thumb, Los Angeles-based makeup artist Carissa Ferreri previously told Allure that she recommends using a cream blush (or gel) formula in rosy tones. Once you find your shade, it's time to dab it on. "Focus the blush a bit higher on the cheeks, like right under the eyes, and then diffuse any harsh lines," she explained. Joseph Carrillo, a makeup artist based in New York City, also suggests "smiling and applying the color in the center of the apples" before gently fading the edges.

While some come in stick form and others in pots, it's the same deal: Simply apply straight from the bullet and blend the product out with your fingers, a beauty sponge, or a stippling blush brush for more precision. Whatever you do, it's hard to mess up, especially considering most cream blushes are on the sheerer (but buildable) side. If you've gone overboard with the intensity, you can always use your brush or sponge to diffuse the color.

Meet the experts

• Allison Kaye, a Florida-based makeup artist
• Carissa Ferreri, a Los Angeles-based makeup artist
• Joseph Carrillo, a makeup artist based in New York City

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 cream blushes, we enlisted the help of multiple editors, writers, contributors, and professional 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 can fairly assess any beauty product that comes into the beauty closet.

Sarah HanSave StorySave this storySave StorySave this story

Makeup can be as fun as it is beginner-friendly. Take the best eye shadow sticks, for example: These versatile, travel-friendly formulas can be used as an everyday, all-over lid color, smudged out for a smoky look, or more precisely drawn as eyeliner. Editors and makeup artists agree that these creamy formulas slide and glide without fallout commonly associated with powder eye shadows, meaning you get a punch of pigment without risking your foundation base. Best of all? You don't need a brush to apply or blend these—your fingers can be your artistic tools. Below, we share our favorite eye shadow sticks after years of testing.

Our Top Eye Shadow Sticks

• Best Overall: Ilia Beauty Eye Stylus Shadow Stick, $33
• Best Long-Lasting: Half Magic Sparklestik Eye Crayon, $25
• Best Shade Range: Laura Mercier Caviar Stick Eye Shadow, $33
• Best Shimmer: Tower 28 GoGo Cooling Shimmer Eyeshadow, $20
• Best Drugstore: L'Oréal Paris Le Shadow Stick Eyeshadow, $14

Frequently Asked QuestionsAccordionItemContainerButtonLargeChevron

• How do I apply an eye shadow stick?
• Are eye shadow sticks good for mature eyes?
• Meet the experts
• How we test and review products
• Our staff and testers

Best Overall: Ilia Beauty Eye Stylus Shadow Stick

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Ilia Beauty

Eye Stylus Shadow Stick

$33

Amazon

$33

Sephora

$33

Ilia

Allure commerce editor Sarah Han applying the Ilia Beauty Eye Stylus Shadow Stick in Nymph

Sarah Han

Why it's worth it: There are ordinary eye shadow sticks, and then there are Best of Beauty-winning eye shadow sticks. The angled, flat tip found on Ilia Beauty's Eye Stylus Shadow Sticks allows for easy-gliding application that hugs your lids, or you can tilt the stick onto its side to draw on eyeliner. It may look like a cream stick, but once it's blended and set, it settles into a soft-matte finish that stays put (it's waterproof!) and doesn't crease for up to 12 hours. TL;DR The Eye Stylus is as beginner-friendly as they come.

Across 12 shimmery and 8 matte shades (all inspired by Renaissance oil paintings), you'll find classic golds, pinks, and browns, as well as unexpected pops of pinky lilac (like Nymph shown here) and seafoam green (Vignette), so you can go as subtle or bold as you want.

Han before applying the Ilia Eye Stylus Shadow Stick in Nymph

Han after applying the Ilia Eye Stylus Shadow Stick in Nymph

Sarah Han

Tester feedback from commerce editor Sarah Han

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“I'm full of beauty contradictions. I love nothing more than taking an hour to put on my makeup before I go out for a special event, but most mornings, I go without makeup simply because I can't wake up early enough before I jet off to the office. Ilia's Eye Stylus Shadow Sticks are game-changers because they take 10 seconds to apply and blend out with my ring finger (incredible!), and there's a mix of my usual gold/pearl shimmers and fun colors, like this matte lilac called Nymph, that brighten my eyes with almost no effort. I love the shade variety, though I do wish they ventured out into more brights. One day?

I remember when they first launched, and the product was falling out of its packaging, but Ilia has since fixed that, and now the sticks stay wholly in place. I do like to warm up the pigments on the back of my hands because otherwise they tug on my lids a bit, but nothing crazy. Once on the lids, there's a small window to blend and blur, and once they set, they don't crease throughout the day. They're so handy, compact, and cute!” —Sarah Han, commerce editor

Tester feedback from content director Sophia Panych

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“I love the convenience of these slim, matte shadow pencils, especially the brown tones (Faun and Relic) that can both double as a contouring shade and as a neutral smoky eye. They’re easy to use and great for packing. I use them every morning as part of my regular makeup routine, and they come with me on every trip I’ve taken since they launched earlier this year.” —Sophia Panych, content director

More to know

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• Key ingredients: upcycled grape extract, beeswax
• Available shades: 20 (8 matte, 12 shimmery)
• Waterproof: yes

Best Long-Lasting: Half Magic Sparklestik Eye Crayon

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Half Magic

Sparklestik Eye Crayon

$25

Ulta Beauty

Allure former content director Kara McGrath applying the Half Magic Sparklestik Eye Crayon in Beige Mystique

Why it’s worth it: The biggest downside of glitter lids? Fallout, both mid-application and midday. But the 2025 Best of Beauty Award-winning Half Magic Sparklestik Eye Crayon eliminates that problem. The creamy stick clings to lids the instant it touches them, flooding you with a mirror-like shine that doesn’t budge for up to 12 hours (yes, really). Each of the 10 ultra-pigmented shades looks like you spent forever perfecting it, but glides right on and dries down in seconds, and can be layered for extra intensity. Once the shadow is on, it’s on, so you’ll need a serious cleansing balm to take it off.

McGrath before applying the Half Magic Sparklestik Eye Crayon in Beige Mystique

Kara McGrath

McGrath after applying the Half Magic Sparklestik Eye Crayon in Beige Mystique

Kara McGrath

Tester feedback from Allure former content director Kara McGrath

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“I cannot stop raving about this eye shadow! It's the perfect sparkle for people who think they're afraid of wearing shimmer. The formula is so creamy and packed with ultrafine glitter that catches the light just right. I like to apply one swipe at my upper lash lines, then use my finger to blend it up to cover my lids.” —Kara McGrath, former content director

More to know

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• Key ingredients: vitamin E
• Available shades: 10 (all shimmer)
• Waterproof: no

Best Shade Range: Laura Mercier Caviar Stick Eye Shadow

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Laura Mercier

Caviar Stick Eye Shadow

$33

Amazon

$33

Nordstrom

$33

Ulta Beauty

Allure senior commerce editor Sarah Felbin applying the Laura Mercier Caviar Stick Eye Shadow in Burnished Bronze

Sarah Felbin

Why it's worth it: Classics are classics for a reason, and in the eye shadow stick realm, there are few better examples than Laura Mercier’s Caviar Eye Shadow Sticks. While originally launched in 2011, these beginner-friendly cream formulas continue to demonstrate their staying power, snagging an Allure Best of Beauty Award in 2024. "I'm a die-hard fan of the Laura Mercier shadow stick in Cocoa (a rich chocolate with bronze pearl)," New York City-based makeup artist Kirin Bhatty tells Allure. "I always have them in my kit as they are super versatile, and you can create something very natural to something very smoky in a few swipes." Not only do they encompass one of the most impressive neutral shade ranges we’ve had yet to see, but there's also plenty more to explore, such as Celestial (shimmery gray metallic), Dusk (matte dusty plum), and Midnight Blue (matte navy blue).

Felbin before applying the Laura Mercier Caviar Stick Eye Shadow in Burnished Bronze

Sarah Felbin

Felbin after applying the Laura Mercier Caviar Stick Eye Shadow in Burnished Bronze

Sarah Felbin

Tester feedback from senior commerce editor Sarah Felbin

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“Laura Mercier's eye shadow sticks are as close to foolproof as it gets. The stick itself is on the thinner side, so it's easy to hold, and the eye shadow formula inside is super creamy and easy to work with. I can swipe it on and blend it out in under a minute! Aside from the gorgeous shade range (so many shimmers!), it melts onto my skin easily (no harsh tugging at my lash line) and quickly diffuses out into a soft wash of color. I'm wearing Burnished Bronze, and I'm obsessed with how it makes my green eyes pop. I love that I don't need to use a brush (one less brush to clean every week, you know?)—my finger is the perfect tool. Once it's on, it feels weightless—not heavy or sticky.” —Sarah Felbin, senior commerce editor

Tester feedback from contributing commerce editor Deanna Pai

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“I don't have the time or patience to mess around with an eye shadow palette most mornings, which is why I love the utility of these shadow sticks. This one is easy to blend out with my fingers, and the pigment accentuates my eyes without looking too over-the-top. Another bonus? I can layer a few different colors without the colors getting muddy. They go on seamlessly whether I'm doing a quick daytime look or going bigger for a special event or night out.” —Deanna Pai, contributing commerce editor

More to know

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• Key ingredients: rapeseed oil, grapeseed oil, sodium hyaluronate
• Available shades: 27 (15 satin, 12 matte)
• Waterproof: yes

Best Metallic: MAC Dazzleshadow Eye Shadow Stick

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MAC

Dazzleshadow Eye Shadow Stick

$28

Nordstrom

$28

Sephora

$28

Ulta Beauty

Allure commerce producer Sarah Hoffmann applying the MAC Dazzleshadow Eye Shadow Stick

Sarah Hoffmann

Why it's worth it: Whether you're getting ready for a night out or in the mood for something eye-catching to uplift your daily commute, MAC's Dazzleshadow Eye Shadow Sticks always impress. (We're big fans of the liquid eye shadows, too, for the record.) Let's break it down: This eye shadow stick comes in eight gorgeous metallic shades ranging from Gold Stud (white gold), Haku Haze (silver lilac), to Bedazzled Denim (navy with multicolored pearls) and offers 12-hour waterproof wear. True to all things MAC, these shadows have stunning color payoff, so all you really need is one layer to, well, dazzle all those around you.

Hoffmann before applying the MAC Dazzleshadow Eye Shadow Stick

Sarah Hoffmann

Hoffmann after applying the MAC Dazzleshadow Eye Shadow Stick

Sarah Hoffmann

Tester feedback from commerce producer Sarah Hoffmann

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“I'm super pro glitter eye shadow in general, but especially when it's as easy to apply as MAC's Dazzleshadow Eye Shadow Sticks. The shade range is a cool-toned dream (although I think these shades are pretty flattering across the board) and I've been living my frosty makeup dreams since I got my hands on these. MAC has mastered the multi-dimensional glitter, so there's always more than just silver or just gold going on in these mixes. I'm wearing a lighter wash here, but if I pressed down harder with the applicator—and I often do—the sparkle amps all the way up.” —Sarah Hoffmann, commerce producer

More to know

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• Key ingredients: N/A
• Available shades: 8
• Waterproof: yes

Best Shimmer: Tower 28 GoGo Cooling Shimmer Eyeshadow

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Tower 28 Beauty

GoGo Cooling Shimmer Eyeshadow

$20

Amazon

$20

Sephora

$20

Revolve

Allure senior commerce editor Sarah Felbin applying the Tower28 GoGo Cooling Shimmer Eyeshadow in Chateau and Avalon

Sarah Felbin

Why it’s worth it: We won't cap: Tower 28’s GoGo Cooling Shimmer Eyeshadows are something special. (But, actually, do put the cap back on—this water-based formula is more prone to drying!) This refreshing, Irish-moss-powered formula instantly wakes up tired eyes without further irritating sensitive or eczema-prone skin, and for up to eight hours (after all, it's a more finicky gel-shimmer), lends eyes an ethereal look that catches the light with every blink. While it's targeted towards eyes, we also love using it as a highlighter along our cheekbones and nose bridges—the eye shadow world is your oyster. Also notable? Tower 28 sourced its glitter from superfine crystals and pearls (rather than microplastics) for a more planet-conscious option.

Felbin before applying the Tower28 GoGo Cooling Shimmer Eyeshadow in Chateau and Avalon

Sarah Felbin

Felbin after applying the Tower28 GoGo Cooling Shimmer Eyeshadow in Chateau and Avalon

Sarah Felbin

Tester feedback from Felbin

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“The name really is everything here: This eye shadow stick is cooling (which feels so nice and refreshing) and tiny enough that I can toss it in my bag for quick touch-ups while I'm on the go-go. Every single shade is beautiful, and the shimmer is noticeable, but still subtle enough that I can wear it to the office during the day. I usually apply the stick right to my lid, then blend it out using my finger. I've applied these in the back of an Uber in seconds with zero issues. Bonus: They rarely crease, even on my super-sensitive, oily eyelids. These sticks make fun eye shadow accessible—I highly recommend grabbing one (or a few!) if you're interested in wearing eye shadow more, but don't know where to start.” —Sarah Felbin, senior commerce editor

More to know

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• Key ingredients: biomimetic sugar complex, crystal blend, Irish moss
• Available shades: 9 (all shimmer)
• Waterproof: no

Best Shade Range: Bobbi Brown Long-Wear Cream Eyeshadow Stick

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Bobbi Brown

Long-Wear Cream Shadow Stick

$34

Bobbi Brown

Former Allure associate manager of special projects Talia Gutierrez applying the Bobbi Brown Long-Wear Cream Eyeshadow Stick in Taupe

Talia Gutierrez

Why it's worth it: Bobbi Brown’s Long-Wear Cream Eyeshadow Sticks have been a longtime favorite of Allure editors ever since their debut in 2013, and it's pretty simple as to why: They feel like nothing but leave a long-lasting impact (up to 24 hours, according to the brand) once swiped onto the lids. However, what we adore most is that the Best of Beauty-winning collection features an impressive 28-shade range. Yes, each matte, shimmer, and multichrome formula shines on its own, but they also play very nicely with one another—we love adding a shimmer or multichrome on top of a matte for added flair.

Gutierrez before applying the Bobbi Brown Long-Wear Cream Eyeshadow Stick in Taupe

Talia Gutierrez

Gutierrez after applying the Bobbi Brown Long-Wear Cream Eyeshadow Stick in Taupe

Talia Gutierrez

Tester feedback from former Allure associate manager of special projects Talia Gutierrez

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“Wearing eye shadow doesn't always mean a full cut-crease beat. These shadow sticks are user-friendly and practically mistake-free. The only tool you'll need is one fingertip! My favorite shade is Taupe, but when I want to amp up some dimension and shadow, I'll pat in the shade Bark for a quick and easy matte, smoky eye.” —Talia Gutierrez, former Allure associate manager of special projects

More to know

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• Key ingredients: synthetic beeswax, vitamin E
• Available shades: 28 (11 matte, 12 shimmer, and 5 multichrome)
• Waterproof: yes

Best Drugstore: L'Oréal Paris Le Shadow Stick Eyeshadow

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L’Oréal Paris

Le Shadow Stick Eyeshadow

$14 $10 (29% off)

Amazon

$14

Ulta Beauty

Why it's worth it: The best way to build an eye shadow wardrobe? Besides investing in an eye shadow palette, we suggest adding a few single shadows (whether they're sticks, pans, or liquids) into your regular rotation. At $14 a pop (and 14 versatile shades in matte and shimmer finishes), L'Oréal Paris's Le Shadow Stick Eyeshadows make a strong case. They offer potent pigmentation with just one swipe, but can be easily built up for more impact, and last an entire day with no primer needed. (Though, if you have particularly oily lids, primer certainly doesn't hurt!)

More to know

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• Key ingredients: glycerin
• Available shades: 14
• Waterproof: no

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I apply an eye shadow stick?

Like any individual eye shadow, you have your options in terms of application. Most eye shadow sticks have creamy formulas that take a few seconds (a minute, tops) to settle, which makes your clean fingers an ideal applicator. "I use my fingers for shadows all the time, at work and on myself," Fiona Stiles, a Los Angeles-based makeup artist, previously told Allure. "At work, I use them to lay on color in a more concentrated way, and on myself, I use them to create a wash of shadow on the lid," she says.

New York City-based makeup artist Yuui Vision recommends using your ring finger to pat along your lid, then blending with your middle finger. For a more concentrated finish, Vision suggests dabbing color with your ring finger on the area of your lid where you want to increase opacity, then alternate blending with both fingers until you create your desired finish.

Are eye shadow sticks good for mature eyes?

New York City-based makeup artist Lisa Aharon previously told Allure that cream eye shadow sticks (and just cream formulas in general) are the best for mature eyes. “They have a smoother texture and are less likely to settle into fine lines and wrinkles,” she says. While cream eye shadows come in matte, shimmer, or metallic finishes, Katy Holland, an Austin-based makeup, and Aharon vouch for matte formulas since they provide a soft and diffused look that doesn't emphasize the skin's texture.

Meet the experts

• Fiona Stiles, a Los Angeles-based makeup artist
• Kirin Bhatty, a New York City-based makeup artist
• Marisal Mou, a New York City-based cosmetic chemist
• Yuui Vision, a New York City-based makeup artist

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 eye shadow sticks, we enlisted the help of multiple editors, writers, contributors, and professional 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: wear, longevity, color variety, and ease of use. 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.