Author: fezomy

Courtesy of Juan Avelar for DND Nails, @tombachik, Getty ImagesSave StorySave this storySave StorySave this story

Sure, the Met Gala is a night for fashion, but this year we saw more major nail-art moments from celebrity attendees than ever before.

It’s not entirely unsurprising. The “Fashion Is Art” theme—which highlighted the intersection of fashion, art, and the human body—felt both vague and oddly specific, resulting in a large range of outfit choices, from the snoozy to the downright strange. What the stars seemed most confident doing, however, was using their nails as tiny little canvases on which to push this idea that fashion, and by association beauty, as an art form.

The nail art of the night reflected all of our favorite trends right now, from gems and French manicures to flowers and 3-dimensional designs. And our favorite looks of the night often reflected actual pieces of art. Take, for example, Naomi Watts’s set, created by Iram Shelton, featuring 30 3D flowers. The design served as an extension of Watts’s detailed Dior gown, which was inspired by “A Vase of Flowers” by Margareta Haverman.

Other guests tapped into the idea of the body as a painter’s canvas, like Emma Chamberlain’s brush-stroke designs (by Tom Bachik), and Ashley Graham and Tessa Thompson’s spray-painted finger tips. And while these manicures could be seen from the top of the Met’s staircase, some of the coolest designs of the night were made to be admired up close. Sabrina Carpenter’s French tips by Zola Ganzorigt are the perfect example. Instead of polish, Ganzorigt used film strips from the 1954 film Sabrina for the tips of the nails—the same strips that made up her custom Dior gown by Jonathan Anderson.

Luckily, there’s no need to squint, zoom, or turn up the brightness of your phone, because we rounded up the best Met Gala 2026 nail-art moments in one place—and close-up so you can admire every little amazing detail. Because if we learn one thing during the first Monday in May year after year, it’s that nails are never an afterthought for celebrities and their glam teams.

Sabrina Carpenter's Film Strip French TipsGetty Images

Made up of actual strips of film from the movie, Carpenter's Dior by Jonathon Anderson dress paid homage to Audrey Hepburn's 1954 film Sabrina. But the reference didn't stop there. Carpenter's French manicure, dreamed up by Zola Ganzorigt, mirrored the colors and glossy finish of the dress material. To mimic the film's perforated edies, Ganzorigt painted tiny vertical lines on black tips, then topping the entire set off with OPI’s nearly released Chrome Powder in the shade Tin Man Can Glaze for that high-shine effect.

Naomi Watt's 3D Flower NailsGetty Images

Naomi Watts’s 3D flower nails were as breathtaking as her Dior gown, which was inspired by an 18th century painting by Dutch artist Margareta Haverman called "A Vase of Flowers." Created by London-based nail artist Iram Shelton, Watts' manicure featured a base of OPI Nail Lacquer in Lady in Black and various other OPI shades for the 30 bite-size blooms. The bouquet of colorful flowers took Shelton five hours to complete, using molding gel and gradients of color to create realistic-looking petals.

Emma Chamberlain's Brush-Stroke 2026 Met Gala Nails@tombachik

Bachik turned Chamberlain's nails into 10 teeny-tiny pantings for the night. His aim? For the manicure to be a continuum of her hand-painted custom Mugler by Miguel Castro Freitas gown.

Just as the dress features a mixed color palette, so did the nails with Bachik using Aprés Nail shades in Forever Marigold, Glassea Eyed, Brickhouse, You’re Pretty Grape, Aquarius Rising, and Monstera Ball. Eight of her fingers got the Pollock-like brushstrokes. On the remaining two fingers, Bachik mirrored the white floral swirls of Chamberlain’s neck and chest bodice.

Lisa's Icy 2026 Met Gala NailsGetty Images

The Blackpink singer gave her manicure the same attention and detail as the rest of her incredible Robert Wun-designed gown. She also added the same amount of bling as her 50-carat oval cabochon sapphire Bulgari necklace. “I wanted the nails to feel like an accessory as well as an extension of the costume,” New York City-based nail artist Juan Alvear says. “We took the classic idea of bejeweling the nails and gave them a frostbitten twist,” Alvear added.

To create the icy set, Alvear used KISS Embellished Press On Nails, layering on diamond and sapphire flat-back jewels. After applying each crystal, Alvear “glazed over [each nail] with a building gel and top coat.” The layers of jewels were complete with frosted tips, giving the set a chilly finish. Alvear applied these “fine particles in layers and sealed them into the nail, giving it that frozen-over effect.” Finally, the team added iridescent flecks over her fingers and hands to create the effect of crushed ice.

Tyla’s Feathered Manicure at the 2026 Met GalaCourtesy of Coca Michelle/OPI

Complementing Tyla's ornate Met Gala gown, nail artist Coco Michelle created one of the most impressive manicures of the year. Using bridge stiletto extensions, Michelle added feather details along the nails by cutting into the nail on both side . She used the OPI shade Alpine Snow for the white base and Baby Tee-L for the teal coloring, finishing off with a centerpiece of rhinestone appliqués. Then, Michelle used the OPI shade Strawberry Margarita along the underside of each nail. The result was a colorful, peacock-like effect that we're still not over.

Naomi Osaka’s Crimson Extensions at the 2026 Met GalaCourtesy of Juan Avlear for DND Gel

Osaka's XL extensions and sheer crimson gloves serves as a continuation of the beautiful curves of her Robert Wun gown. "We built the design onto gloves to extend her silhouette down to the fingertips,” explains nail artist Juan Avlear. The design was created using long stiletto tips, with DND’s 9D Cateye Glassball in Feisty Paws as the base and the DND Cateye Magnet to pull the pigment into a center flame shape. Next, Avlear uses DND Black Gel Art Liner to refine the flame detailing before applying Red Chrome Powder in gradients on top to add depth and dimension. A high-shine top coat sealed the fiery design in place.

Ashley Graham's Chrome Digits at the 2026 Met GalaGetty Images

Why stop at the nails for a night like the Met? Graham’s manicure was a collaboration between manicurist Dawn Sterling and makeup artist Kabuki. Sterling started by adding a bold chrome metallic effect to each nail, before Kabuki carefully painted each of Graham’s fingers silver, brushing upwards to achieve a gradient, spray-painted effect. Finally, Sterling went back onto each nail and painted a little more of the metallic silver to blend the finger and nail together seamlessly.

Janelle Monáe’s Kitchen-Sink Manicure at the 2026 Met GalaJanelle Monáe attends the 2026 Met Gala celebrating "Costume Art" at the Metropolitan Museum of Art on May 04, 2026.Getty Images

For Janelle Monae, nail artist Angie Aguirre created the kind of manicure that every time you look at it, you notice more elements. Teaming up with Christian Siriano, Monáe’s Met Gala dress featured animatronic butterflies and electric cables nestled among moss, flowers, and pieces of circuit boards, and Aguirre made sure Monae's nails had a similar everything-but-the-kitchen-sink feel.

A metallic base color runs throughout the set, on top of which sat various 3D features like flowers, bits of moss, an SD card, and metallic cords emulating the electric cables. The animatronic butterflies were even mirrored in the manicure in the form of an itty-bitty fidget spinner on one of the nails.

Tessa Thompson’s Dripping Cobalt 2026 Met Gala NailsGetty Images

Another manicure that was an actual piece of art, was Tessa Thompson’s drip manicure designed nail artist extraordinaire Mei Kawajiri. To mirror Thompson's custom cobalt Valentino gown, the manicurist broke out almond-shaped press-ons and covered them in Chillhouse’s Forever Wear in Cobalt Klein, then using sculpting gel to create the effect of dripping paint. “It's an abstract, almost surreal take on nail art that nods to this year’s theme while adding a sculptural edge to [Thompson’s] overall look,” Chillhouse said in a statement. Once the fake nails had been placed on each finger, Thompson’s hand was dipped into a cobalt blue latex paint to create the exceptionally effective final result.

Doechii's Crystal Cluster 2026 Met Gala NailsCourtesy of Rachel Sun

“Naturally forming crystal cluster nails” was how nail artist Rachel Sun explained Doechii’s manicure for this year’s Met Gala. Using Aprés Nail products, Sun applied one coat of Pour Decisions, a sheer terracotta-rose hue, followed by two coats of Ruby Slippers, using the ruby red to create an ombré effect starting from the tips of the nails. Over the top, Sun applied clusters of crystals over the entire nail, many overlapping each other, as naturally-formed crystals do in nature. The quartz-like design didn't stop at the fingertips, either. Doechii wore a matching pedicure, too.

Tate McRae’s Antique Frame 2026 Met Gala ManicureCourtesy of OPI

Nail artist Analysse Hernandez took eye-catching to the next level with Tate McRae’s Met manicure, that also happened to be one of the most translatable in real life.

For McRae, designer Ludovic De Saint Serin, and the team, it was a toss-up between her usual classic nude, gold, or lace-inspired manicure. “But as soon as I saw her look, I knew we needed dimension and texture, while not adding too much distraction to the final look,” explains Hernandez. The base featured McRae’s classic neutral shades mixed together: OPI Bubble Bath and Put it in Neutral with a light shimmer of OPI Throw Me a Kiss over the top for dimension. Finally, she used OPI Infinite Shine in 24/7 Carat to add the flashes of gold and to "replicate a frame-like design,” Hernandez adds.

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Five minutes doesn't seem like much when you're trying to look your best, but it's actually a lot more time than you think. (Think about how long five minutes feels in a tough workout!) All it takes is a little strategy and some smart, thoughtful products to make a big impact in a short amount of time, especially when you're rushing to get out the door. And if there's anyone who knows how to put together a beautiful makeup look in five minutes or less, it's the pros themselves—makeup artists!

Makeup artists often work under pressure: short timelines, quick change-ups or touch-ups, rushing from one event to another. They're prepping clients and models, but they also have to prep themselves, so they know exactly how to curate a quick but effective routine.

Many pros recommend focusing on the skin when you're short on time, as that's the foundation—pun intended—of everything else. “My overall philosophy is if your base looks good and perfected, what you do on eyes and lips actually doesn't matter that much,” says New York City-based makeup artist Kasey Spickard.

And when it comes to a five-minute face, practice makes perfect; the more you complete the same steps, the more seamless they feel. "Speed comes from repetition, not from rushing," says Ash K Holm, a Los Angeles-based makeup artist. Holm recommends keeping your five-minute face products in one specific spot or grouped together so you don't have to dig through a drawer or makeup bag for that one specific shade of blush or eyeliner.

Ahead, we tapped six professional makeup artists to share the three getting-ready steps they never skip, whether they're prepping their own faces or working with a client.

Jonet Williamson

Jonet Williamson

Atlanta-based makeup artist Jonet Williamson's easy everyday routine is to spot conceal any blemishes, fill in her brows, and hydrate her lips, but if she's going to an event and only has five minutes to pull together something more impactful, she focuses on a few specific areas. “If you’re ever crunched for time, my advice would be to focus on nailing your complexion and eyebrows,” she advises. “These are the prime things that will make you feel pulled together and most like yourself.”

Foundation

If your base makeup looks good, it elevates everything else. “When you're in a rush, focus on concealing any blemishes and brightening the undereye to look more awake,” Williamson says. To quickly perfect her skin for an important occasion, she likes to “sheer out a full-coverage foundation." Incorporate some skin-care benefits by mixing your formula of choice with a little moisturizer, blend it out, and voilà!

Brows

A perfected, filled-in brow always completes the look and takes just a minute or two, depending on your product, which is why it's an essential part of Williamson's everyday and event routine. “Make sure your brow hairs are brushed in place, then fill in any areas that would help to frame your face,” she advises. “Then throw a lip combo in your bag and go!”

Eyeliner

Whether it's a delicate definition, a classic cat eye, or a smoky, smudged-out moment, eyeliner can make a huge difference in your look in just a few strokes. “I pop on a bit of black eyeliner to frame the eye,” Williamson says. “This is what I know will photograph well and not look like I skipped any steps.”

Tayaba Jafri

Tayaba Jafri

Like we said above, five minutes is more generous than it sounds; you can quickly transform and awaken your face in a short time, no problem. “Five minutes is more than enough," says Tayaba Jafri, makeup artist and global beauty director at Laura Mercier. “Just focus on the makeup feeling intentional and effortless, and the skin looking alive.”

Tinted moisturizer

Jafri starts by perfecting her skin with a sheer base, applying the product only where needed. “This keeps the skin looking real,” she says. Make sure to apply it over your daily skin care, as Jafri says there's “no compromise” on that prep step; your serums and moisturizers ready your face for the makeup to follow and can help increase radiance, hydration, and an overall healthy look. “A balanced skin tone and enlivened texture make everything else look intentional.”

Blush

Time to brighten up! Whether you're team cream or prefer a more traditional powder blush, the product “instantly brings the face to life,” Jafri says. “It mimics natural circulation, so you look fresh.”

Eyes or lips

When you're in a rush, pick one feature to define: eyes or lips. “Focusing on one feature creates polish without effort,” Jafri explains. For eyes, an eye shadow stick and mascara can create something beautiful in seconds flat, and a matte lipstick can be applied precisely for a polished look, tapped on like a stain, or blurred for a cool, edgier finish.

David Birdwell

David Birdwell

David Birdwell, makeup artist and director of global education & artistry at BareMinerals, is a fan of multitasking products like tinted brow gel and a cream lip-and-cheek product to make the most of your precious five minutes. If the clock is ticking and stress is ruining your vibe, turn up a playlist and make it fun! “When I want getting ready to feel enjoyable, even when I am short on time, I will play music that matches how long I have,” Birdwell says. “It keeps me on track without making the routine feel rushed.”

Tinted brow gel

Your everyday brow gel can do way more than define your arches, especially in a pinch. “Using one product multiple ways saves so much time,” says Birdwell. “I will use a tinted brow gel on brows and lightly on lashes or use a brow pencil as a soft eyeliner for a more natural effect.” Genius!

Cream blush

Blush can quickly add a healthy flush of color to your cheeks, but don't stop there: “I will often tap the cheek color onto my brow bone to create a cohesive, healthy look,” Birdwell says. He also likes to use it on lips to continue the color story.

Tinted moisturizer

A convenient two-in-one formula hydrates and perfects your base, but you can also combine your go-to concealer with your skin care for easy coverage, fast. “For quick complexion coverage, I like to mix a small amount of concealer into my serum to create a lightweight skin tint, then spot conceal where needed,” says Birdwell.

Ash K Holm

Ash K Holm

Holm, who works with stars like Kim Kardashian and Lindsay Lohan, keeps a very busy schedule and has her own routine down to a science.

Skin prep

Don't neglect your skin when you're rushing to get ready. The moisturizer step is a very important one. “Even with five minutes, I'm not skipping moisturizer,” Holm says. “Hydrated skin makes everything else—even if it's nothing else—look better. This takes 30 seconds, and it's nonnegotiable for me."

Cream blush

If Holm has time for only one face product, she's reaching for cream blush. “A little color on the cheeks immediately makes you look awake and healthy,” she says. “I place it high on the cheekbones and blend up; it does the work of bronzer, highlighter, and blush all in one step.”

Winged eyeliner

Flicked-out liner is Holm's signature look and “the one thing that makes me feel most like myself." If you're an eyeliner newbie or not super steady with a brush or a pencil, practice on slow, less-busy days for success on the more harried mornings, she advises. “When you're rushing, the muscle memory is already there,” Holm explains. “A simple, quick flick at the outer corner takes under a minute once you've practiced.”

Christian Briceno

Christian Briceno

When New York City-based makeup artist Christian Briceno is working against the clock with a client, there are three nonnegotiable steps he makes sure to complete: even the complexion where it counts, add lift with cheek color, and open the eyes. “Those three steps change the face the fastest," he explains. "They make someone look rested, structured, and intentional without trying to do full makeup in a rushed way.”

Concealer

“First, I even out the complexion, but only in the center of the face,” Briceno says. He spot corrects under the eyes, around the nose, and any redness or discoloration. “Targeted correction gives the biggest payoff because it instantly makes skin look calmer and more polished,” he adds.

Cream blush

“Blush is the quickest way to bring life back into the face,” Briceno explains. Place it higher than you think—slightly back toward the temple—for an instant, wide-awake effect. Take any excess blush and tap it onto the lips for a “cohesive” look.

Eyes

You've got a few options here—each one easy, quick, and effective. “I open the eyes with one clean choice,” says Briceno. This could be curling lashes and a light coat of mascara, tightlining with an eyeliner pencil, or brushing up the brows and setting them. “The point is definition, not drama,” he says. “A little structure around the eyes makes the whole face look finished, even if everything else is minimal.”

Kasey Spickard

Laura S. Fuchs

When you really need to save time but still want to complete as much of your usual routine as possible, Spickard recommends cutting your layering steps. "If you've only got five minutes, go with just creams and set everything with powder, or do your foundation and concealer and finish with all powders," he explains. “When I have time, I build everything with cream first, then set each individual area with powder. Pick a lane and put your pedal to the metal. Layering takes way more time."

Blush and bronzer

After concealing and brightening the undereye and any area that needs a little coverage, Spickard sweeps on bronzer and blush for contour and color. In addition to its important role as a contouring tool and skin warmer, Spickard likes to add a bit of bronzer to the eye as well, finishing with lots of mascara.

Eyeliner

If you want to “bump up” your five-minute face, Spickard recommends reaching for a dark brown eyeliner and smudging it across the top and bottom lashes and buffing it out with bronzer. “Honestly, in a pinch, I've used the brown eyeliner from the eyes as my lip liner and did it with one product,” he says.

Lip liner and gloss

Another way to add a little drama to your look without adding extra minutes to the countdown is a simple lip pencil. Spickard recommends pairing a darker lip liner with your favorite gloss for something that feels a little more elevated, especially for a night out. “This takes you from day to night super quickly with only two products,” he says.

Meet the experts:

• David Birdwell is a makeup artist and director of global education & artistry at BareMinerals.
• Christian Briceno is a makeup artist in New York City.
• Ash K Holm is a makeup artist in Los Angeles.
• Tayaba Jafri is a makeup artist and global beauty director at Laura Mercier.
• Kasey Spickard is a makeup artist in New York City.
• Jonet Williamson is a makeup artist in Atlanta.

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There's nothing comfortable (or fun) about flaky, peeling, or dry lips, which is why we stay well-stocked with the best lip balms for chapped lips. You can trust we've tried every beauty product under the sun: medicated balms, do-it-all salves, SPF-spiked formulas, exfoliating scrubs—we've even slapped on overnight masks made just for your pout.

If your current lip balm isn't doing it for you anymore, it's time to make a switch—most likely to something simpler. Connecticut-based board-certified dermatologist Mona Gohara, MD, has previously compared lip balms to quenching your thirst with a can of soda. "You drink something that appeals to the senses with no nutritional value, and shortly thereafter, you are still thirsty," she explains. "The same thing goes for balms loaded with flavor, fragrance, and menthol." That doesn't mean you have to completely avoid tasty or tingly balms; in fact, there are a few we really love on this list. Just be sure to pay attention to what is and isn't working for you. Below, we're sharing the best lip-care products we've tried to date, including Best of Beauty winners (hey, Nécessaire and Summer Fridays). Happy swiping!

Our Top Lip Balms for Dry Lips

• Best Overall: Summer Fridays Lip Butter Balm, $26
• Best Multipurpose: Glossier Balm Dot Com, $16
• Best for Sensitive Skin: Nécessaire The Lip Balm, $28
• Best for Peeling Lips: Eadem Le Chouchou Lip Softening Balm, $24
• Best Pigmented: Chanel Coco Rouge Baume, $50
• Best Under-$10: Nyx Professional Makeup Smushy Matte Lip Balm, $9

Frequently Asked QuestionsAccordionItemContainerButtonLargeChevron

• Can you “overuse” lip balm?
• Why do lips feel drier after using some lip balms?
• What ingredients should I look for in a hydrating lip balm?
• Meet the experts
• How we test and review products
• Our staff and testers

Best Overall: Summer Fridays Lip Butter Balm

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Summer Fridays

Lip Butter Balm

$26

Amazon

$24

Sephora

Allure commerce producer Sarah Hoffman applying the Summer Fridays Lip Butter Balm

Sarah Hoffmann

Why it's worth it: When you want the deep hydration of an overnight mask but the lightweight feel of a lip gloss, reach for Summer Fridays’ Lip Butter Balm—a 2023 and 2024 Best of Beauty Award winner and a TikTok staple. This buttery balm started with a single Vanilla flavor and has since expanded to 10 shades and scents, including cozy Brown Sugar, juicy Cherry, and shimmery Birthday Cake. The formula packs emollients like shea and murumuru seed butters to condition dry lips, as well as vegan waxes that smooth uneven texture and lock in moisture for hours. It delivers a glossy, plush finish that feels less like makeup and more like skin care.

Allure commerce editor Sarah Han applying the Summer Fridays Lip Butter Balm

Sarah Han

Han after applying the Summer Fridays Lip Butter Balm

Sarah Han

Tester feedback from commerce editor Sarah Han

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“If I ever don't have at least one of these Summer Friday Lip Butter Balms on hand or in my bag, something's off. Not only do they keep coming out with scrumptious flavors—hello, Iced Coffee!—but they also smooth over my dry, textured lips with just one swipe. Even though I usually layer up, it never feels heavy or greasy. My lips look absolutely glistening, which is a far cry from their usual pale, flaky state. I love a punch of color and rarely wear untinted lip balms, so Summer Fridays' tint offerings (which do include a clear shade) really speak to me. For a true my-lips-but-better look, I reach for Pink Guava (what I'm wearing here), but if I'm in the mood for something bolder, Cherry is my girl.” —Sarah Han, commerce editor

Tester feedback from commerce producer Sarah Hoffman

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“Thick, shiny, and yummy. That’s all you really need to know about Summer Friday’s Lip Butter Balm, which comes in 11 mouthwatering flavors. The new scent and shade options keep me coming back tube after tube.” —Sarah Hoffman, commerce producer

More to know

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• Key ingredients: shea butter, murumuru seed butter
• Shades: 11 (including clear)

Best Multipurpose: Glossier Balm Dot Com

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Glossier

Balm Dotcom

$16

Amazon

$16

Sephora

$16

Glossier

Allure contributing commerce writer Christa Joanna Lee applying Glossier Balm Dotcom in Peppermint Bark

Christa Joanna Lee

Why it's worth it: When Glossier first debuted, it did so with just four products—and one of them quickly became the now-iconic Balm Dotcom. The multipurpose salve became an instant classic for its glossy finish, long-lasting moisture, and minimalist packaging. While it was reformulated in 2023, Glossier’s loyal community (which has always been central to the brand) demanded the original back, and the brand listened. The OG formula returns with castor seed oil to deeply nourish, beeswax to seal in hydration, and lanolin to soften and protect dry, cracked skin. And while it’s made for lips, Glossier encourages using it anywhere you need extra moisture (think cuticles, elbows, or any dry patch that needs a little TLC).

Lee before applying the Glossier Balm Dotcom in Peppermint Bark

Christa Joanna Lee

Lee after applying the Glossier Balm Dotcom in Peppermint Bark

Christa Joanna Lee

Tester feedback from contributing commerce writer Christa Joanna Lee

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“I’m so picky about lip balm texture—too thin and it disappears instantly, too thick and it leaves that weird waxy film. Glossier’s Balm Dotcom nails the perfect in-between: cushy, hydrating, and more about deep moisture than shine (which, TBH, is way more important to me). I’ve been loving the new Peppermint Bark flavor—it’s not aggressively minty, just gives the perfect little zing.” —Christa Joanna Lee, contributing commerce writer

More to know

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• Key ingredients: castor seed oil, beeswax, lanolin, sunflower extract
• Shades: 11 (including clear/fragrance-free)

Best for Sensitive Skin: Nécessaire The Lip Balm

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Nécessaire

The Lip Balm

$28

Amazon

$28

Nordstrom

$28

Sephora

Allure beauty director Sarah Kinonen applying the Necessaire The Lip Balm

Sarah Kinonen

Why it’s worth it: Hypoallergenic, non-comedogenic, and approved by the National Eczema Association—if you have sensitive skin, those phrases are music to your ears. Nécessaire The Lip Balm, a 2025 Best of Beauty Award winner, checks all those boxes and then some. The formula blends niacinamide, essential ceramides, hyaluronic acid, and Centella asiatica extract into a base of luxe shea butter to restore and strengthen the lips’ delicate skin. “It’s made without synthetic fragrances and uses only skin-beneficial ingredients that hydrate, smooth, and protect,” says Anna Chacon, MD, a board-certified dermatologist, based in Miami. “Its clear, semi-gloss finish delivers immediate relief for dry, chapped lips.” A hint of pure mint oil adds freshness with every swipe, while the cooling metal tip soothes on contact.

Tester feedback from beauty director Sarah Kinonen

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“The way I screamed when I received this during testing…I’ve been waiting for a Nécessaire lip balm, and it definitely didn’t disappoint! I love that it’s slippery like a gloss and minty like a balm, but glides on like my favorite eye cream with its cooling-to-the-touch metal applicator.” —Sarah Kinonen, beauty director

Tester feedback from former senior news editor Nicola Dall’Asen

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“In middle school, I used to slather this super tingly mint lip balm that I'd buy at the mall all over my mouth basically 24/7, and I'm pretty sure it was so fragranced and menthol-heavy that it actually wound up making me more chapped (ah, the vicious lip balm cycle). Necessaire's Lip Balm is the skin-friendly adult version of my old favorite. It's got a slightly sweet minty flavor, and I still get the cooling effect from its metal applicator. But this formula, unlike its predecessor, is ceramide-packed, which means it actually repairs and plumps the skin of the lips. It's effective enough that I only need to apply it every now and then—and that's exactly how you want a lip balm to perform, if my tween experiences have taught me anything.” —Nicola Dall'Asen, former senior news editor

More to know

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• Key ingredients: niacinamide, ceramides, hyaluronic acid, Centella asiatica extract
• Shades: 1 (clear)

Best for Peeling Lips: Eadem Le Chouchou Lip Softening Balm

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Eadem

Le Chouchou Lip Softening Balm

$24

Amazon

$24

Sephora

Allure commerce editor Sarah Han applying the Eadem Le Chouchou Lip Softening Balm in Bissap Glaze

Sarah Han

Why it's worth it: Eadem's Le Chouchou Lip Softening Balm has taken over our social feeds, and we're here to confirm the buzz surrounding this jelly-like balm is well-deserved. The biggest star factor comes from the gentle exfoliating ingredients, hibiscus enzymes, and lactic acid, which elevate this from a regular lip balm to one that actually helps treat chapped lips and leaves your lips looking smoother than ever. “Anyone with dry, peeling lips or anyone looking for exfoliation would like this formula, which has alpha hydroxy acids and peptides that help reduce the appearance of wrinkles, and plump the skin in the lips,” Corey L. Hartman, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in Alabama, previously explained. The cooling metal applicator adds an extra soothing touch, as well as softening Brazilian açaí and African mongongo butters, formula-wise.

The shade range is another standout: nine richly pigmented hues—unique ones at that, like Boba Bounce (rich soft brown) and Fig Sauce (cool mauve)—that adorn your lips with a deliciously glossy finish.

Han applying the Eadem Le Chouchou Lip Softening Balm in Bissap Glaze

Sarah Han

Han applying the Eadem Le Chouchou Lip Softening Balm in Bissap Glaze

Sarah Han

Tester feedback from Han

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“It took me long enough to try this beloved lip balm, but I fully support the hype around it. Le Chouchou is thicker and more cushiony than your average balm, so it feels extra conditioning—perfect for my perpetually chapped lips. The fact that there are chemical exfoliants baked into the formula takes them straight to S-tier lip balms. My lips flake pretty easily but now I can treat them during the daytime, instead of only relying on a lip mask at night. My lips feel instantly smooth and the color range is chef's kiss, too. I'm a sucker for berry hues like Bissap Glaze but will definitely be reaching for Guava Fresca on minimal makeup days.” —Sarah Han, commerce editor

More to know

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• Key ingredients: hibiscus enzymes, Brazilian açaí and African mongongo butters, collagen-boosting peptide
• Shades: 9 (including clear)

Best Pigmented: Chanel Rouge Coco Baume Satin Lip Balm

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Chanel

Rouge Coco Baume Satin

$50

Chanel

$50

Nordstrom

$50

Ulta Beauty

Allure senior commerce director Shanna Shipin applying the Chanel Rouge Coco Baume Satin Lip Balm in Anemone

Shanna Shipin

Why it’s worth it: Listed under “everyday luxury” in our proverbial beauty dictionary, you'll find Chanel's Rouge Coco Baume Satin Lip Balm. We love how classic the shade range is, from barely-there neutrals to richer berry tones: Each hue starts sheer but is very buildable, so you can customize your finish. Not sure where to start? One editor called 914 Natural Charm her perfect nude lipstick. The satin, your-lips-but-better finish is supported by ingredients such as squalane, olive fruit oil/leaves, and shea butter, which keep lips feeling soft and comfortable all day long.

Allure senior commerce director Shanna Shipin before applying the Chanel Rouge Coco Baume Satin Lip Balm in Anemone

Shanna Shipin

Allure senior commerce director Shanna Shipin after applying the Chanel Rouge Coco Baume Satin Lip Balm in Anemone

Shanna Shipin

Tester feedback from senior commerce director Shanna Shipin

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“It's no wonder Sophia Richie Grainge wore this lip product on her wedding day—it's the one. Just the right amount of sheer, buildable color, and an ultra-comfy wear that will have you forget that you even applied any lip product at all. It glides over the lips—yes, even my craggly-scraggly and dry, peeling pout—without a skip. It makes your lips appear fuller and juicier—and the shade range is beautiful. There are classic rosey hues, beautiful peach and corals, and really wearable nudes. While I love the 914 Natural Charm for everyday wear, Anemone is a limited-edition summer shade that I can't get enough of; it's a joyful red-orange that brightens my whole face up.”—Shanna Shipin, senior commerce director

More to know

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• Key ingredients: squalane, olive fruit oil, olive leaf extract, shea butter, vitamin E
• Available shades: 9 (including clear)

Best Under-$10: Nyx Professional Makeup Smushy Matte Lip Balm

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Nyx Professional Makeup

Smushy Matte Lip Balm

$8

Amazon

$9

Ulta Beauty

Allure contributing commerce writer Christa Joanna Lee applying the Nyx Professional Makeup Smushy Matte Lip Balm in Snuggle Szn

Christa Joanna Lee

Why it’s worth it: A matte lip balm? We get it—it sounds like an oxymoron. But Nyx Professional Makeup’s Smushy Matte Lip Balm somehow makes it make sense. This is your classic balm feel, reimagined with a plush, blurred, and soft-matte finish. The texture lives up to the name—pillowy and cushiony, thanks to a silicone-rich base that glides on seamlessly and wraps lips in comfort without ever feeling dry. Mochi-inspired rice powder gives a diffused effect, while sugar ceramides and shea butter lock in moisture, keeping lips smooth and hydrated. The smushy applicator (truly, no better word for it) and subtly sweet scents make the whole experience feel a little more fun and playful. According to our tester, it’s the definition of low-effort, high impact.

Lee before applying the Nyx Professional Makeup Smushy Matte Lip Balm in Snuggle Szn

Christa Joanna Lee

Lee after applying the Nyx Professional Makeup Smushy Matte Lip Balm in Snuggle Szn

Christa Joanna Lee

Tester feedback from contributing commerce writer Christa Joanna Lee

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“I’m not—repeat, not—a lip person. I have chronically dry lips, and I usually can’t stand the feel of gloss or most balms. So the fact that I’m fully hooked on this says everything. It gives me that comfortable, hydrated feel without any of the shine I usually avoid, and the soft-matte finish just makes my lips look better with zero effort. The shade Snuggle Szn is my ideal blushy nude. I loved it so much I bought four, just to make sure I’m never without one.” —Christa Joanna Lee, contributing commerce writer

More to know

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• Key ingredients: ceramides, shea butter, rice powder, silicones
• Shades: 12 (including clear)

Best for Discoloration: S'able Labs Moringa Lip Salve

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S'Able Labs

Moringa Lip Salve

$23

Amazon

$23

S’Able Labs

Allure content director Sophia Panych applying the S’able Labs Moringa Lip Salve

Sophie Panych

Why it’s worth it: Far from just another celebrity beauty brand, S’able Labs’ Moringa Lip Salve makes lip care feel personal. Created by actors Sabrina and Idris Elba, the brand is designed for melanated skin, specifically addressing concerns like uneven lip tone and discoloration that are often overlooked. The Lip Salve draws on Sabrina’s Somali heritage, spotlighting African ingredients like moringa seed oil—the so-called “miracle tree”—paired with ultra-nourishing castor oil, antioxidant-rich marula oil, and prickly pear seed oil for a formula that feels equal parts treatment and indulgence. There’s also the addition of licorice root extract, known for reducing discoloration over time. The base provides a cushiony, gloss-like slip, while glycerin and sodium hyaluronate keep lips soft and hydrated.

It comes in a clear version for your low-maintenance days, but the tinted shades are where things get fun—think Jollof, a warm, culture-celebrating nod to the iconic West African dish, and Sister Wife, a cheeky wink to how Sabrina jokingly refers to Idris’ many admirers.

Panych before applying the S’able Labs Moringa Lip Salve

Sophie Panych

Panych after applying the S’able Labs Moringa Lip Salve

Sophie Panych

Tester feedback from content director Sophia Panych

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“A tube of this lip balm has been at my makeup table ever since I tried it for the first time. I apply it before I start my makeup every morning and before I get into bed every night. What I love is that it’s thick enough to feel ridiculously hydrating but without feeling or looking goopy—in fact, it leaves a really pretty glossy finish that makes lips look fuller.  I think what makes this formula especially effective is that the moisture and comfort it leaves behind lasts for hours and hours, which means one tube goes a long way. I also appreciate that it has zero taste, which I personally find very off-putting in a gloss.” —Sophia Panych, content director

More to know

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• Key ingredients: moringa, marula oil, castor oil, prickly pear seed oil, glycerin, sodium hyaluronate, licorice root extract
• Shades: 3 (including clear)

Best Plumping: Ole Henriksen Pout Preserve Peptide Lip Treatment

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Ole Henriksen

Pout Preserve Peptide Lip Treatment

$23

Sephora

$23

Ulta Beauty

Allure commerce producer Sarah Hoffmann applying the Ole Henriksen Pout Preserve Peptide Lip Treatment

Sarah Hoffmann

Why it's worth it: If you haven't already gathered, peptides are an excellent ingredient for those who want plumper lips instantly—without any sting. (Basically, all of us!) Ole Henricksen’s Pout Preserve Lip Treatment has been an editor-favorite for years now, even picking up a 2024 Allure Best of Beauty Award for best daytime balm. This cushiony formula features not one, but two peptides (palmitoyl hexapeptide-12 and palmitoyl tripeptide-1) to lend lips a fuller look, while a nourishing blend of kokum butter, mango seed butter, and cloudberry oil provides additional softening, moisture-boosting benefits. And don't get us started on the yummy scents: Crème Brûlèe, Strawberry Sorbet, and Vanilla Bonbon (as well as occasional limited-edition colors) have us hooked.

P.S. The Pout Preserve Lip Treatments are so popular that Ole Henriksen has since expanded the collection to include Glimmers (shimmer-speckled) and Chillers (cooling sensation).

Hoffmann before applying the Ole Henriksen Pout Preserve Peptide Lip Treatment

Sarah Hoffmann

Hoffmann after applying the Ole Henriksen Pout Preserve Peptide Lip Treatment

Sarah Hoffmann

Tester feedback from Hoffmann

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“The thick, glossy texture of this lip balm is perfection to me. It sits on your lips like a mask, which is so soothing when I'm really dry. I was years late to this product—my fellow editors were onto it way before I was—so when I finally got to try it I knew it was going to be good. What I didn't know I was that I was going to go through my first tube so quickly that I had to restock much sooner than I anticipated. If you spot me out with a glossy lip, there's a 75% change it's Cocoa Crème over faded lipstick, like I'm wearing here.” —Sarah Hoffmann, commerce producer

Tester feedback from managing editor Alessandra Foresto

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“Fun fact: Suni Lee first introduced me to this hydrating lip product when she was asked what her lip combo was at the last Olympics, and she delivered a TikTok with the details. Since then, this lip treatment has become one of my go-to lip products. It's hydrating but doesn’t feel sticky. The shades are very flattering (I have not yet met one I don't love, but my tube of Cocoa Crème is almost out, so I definitely gravitate to that one the most) and buildable. I use a lip liner with it to make the color last all day and my lips feel soft and smooth at the end of the day!” —Alessandra Foresto, managing editor

More to know

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• Key ingredients: palmitoyl hexapeptide-12, palmitoyl tripeptide-1, kokum and mango seed butters, Scandinavian cloudberry oil, acai sterols
• Available shades: 7 (including a clear-ish shade, Vanilla Bonbon)

Best K-Beauty: Unleashia Sunset Dazzle Gloss Balm

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Unleashia

Sunset Dazzle Gloss Balm

$16

Amazon

$16

Ulta Beauty

$17

Yesstyle

Why it’s worth it: The popular K-beauty brand Unleashia may be better known for their viral Glitterpedia Eye Palettes packed with sparkle, but don’t worry—there’s no glitter in the Sunset Dazzle Gloss Balm. And yet, it still shines. Instead of shimmer, you’re getting that signature K-beauty high-gloss, glassy finish thanks to a plush blend of emollients that melt into lips with a cushiony, almost lacquer-like slip. What gives it that K-beauty edge is the makeup-meets-treatment approach: Peptides, vitamin C (ascorbic acid), and yuzu extract smooth, soften, and add antioxidant support.

For a brand built on self-expression without limits (its name blending “unleash” and “utopia”), even the shade names feel like an escape—think Ibiza, Amalfi, and Bondi Beach—so every swipe doubles as a mini vacation.

Han applying the Unleashia Sunset Dazzle Gloss Balm in No.3 Ibiza

Sarah Han

Han after applying the Unleashia Sunset Dazzle Gloss Balm in No.3 Ibiza

Sarah Han

Tester feedback from Han

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“I never really fancied myself a glossy girl, but these hi-shine Unleashia gloss balms make my lips too juicy for words! The shades are extra pretty and vibrant as far as tinted lip balms go—my favorite shades, Ibiza and Bora Bora, pack a real punch of color. I'm obsessed and will continue collecting them all. This says a lot because I have an excess of tinted lip balms (I don't really ever wear clear ones), and most just gather dust on my vanity, whereas at least one Unleashia balm is on me at all times. Yes, they don't last very long, but reapplication is so fun with that cute, squishy, and donut-like top, so who cares? Unleashia is definitely a Korean makeup brand to watch out for!” —Sarah Han, commerce editor

More to know

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• Key ingredients: peptides (acetyl hexapeptide-8, palmitoyl pentapeptide-4), vitamin C (ascorbic acid), yuzu
• Shades: 7 (including clear)

Best with SPF: Supergoop Glow Gloss SPF 40 Lip Balm

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Supergoop!

Glow Gloss SPF 40 Lip Balm

$22

Amazon

$22

Nordstrom

$22

Revolve

Kinonen applying the Supergoop Glow Gloss SPF 40 Lip Balm

Sarah Kinonen

Why it’s worth it: Lips are one of the easiest places to forget SPF, but they’re also one of the most vulnerable, thanks to thinner skin and minimal natural protection from UV rays. Supergoop’s Glow Gloss SPF 40 Lip Balm makes daily lip protection feel like a treat. "Using lip balms with sunscreen can also help prevent cold sores, as sun exposure can cause these spots to appear," Sejal Shah, MD, a New York City-based board-certified dermatologist, told Allure. This glossy balm uses a blend of chemical filters (and yes, formulas like these are designed with the expectation that a small amount will be ingested throughout the day) to deliver high-level, broad-spectrum protection while leaving lips with a high-shine finish. Beyond SPF, it’s all about lip care with a mix of coconut oil, shea butter, and jojoba oil to soften and smooth, plus vitamin E and bisabolol for antioxidant and soothing support. There’s even a peptide (palmitoyl tripeptide-38) in the mix to nourish lips further.

Kinonen before applying the Supergoop Glow Gloss SPF 40 Lip Balm

Sarah Kinonen

Kinonen after applying the Supergoop Glow Gloss SPF 40 Lip Balm

Sarah Kinonen

Tester feedback from Kinonen

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“I’ve tried a lot of lip products with SPF, and while I absolutely love the concept, many (if not most) of them left a lot to be desired. Textures were goopy and chunky, flavors were chemical-y, and the pigment just wasn’t there. But then I tried the Supergoop Glow Gloss SPF—and it changed my mind about sunscreen-spiked lip products of the past. This balm is shiny (not sticky), comes in a lot of pretty shades (my favorite is Pink Peppermint), and is long-lasting—even when sweating in the Brooklyn heat. I wore it for a recent tennis lesson (why didn’t anyone tell me tennis was so fun?!), and it stayed put throughout the hour-long class and during my many, many water breaks.” —Sarah Kinonen, beauty director

More to know

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• Key ingredients: 3% avobenzone, 5% homosalate, 4% octisalate, 4.5% octocrylene, peptides (palmitoyl tripeptide-38), vitamin E, bisabolol, coconut oil, shea butter, jojoba oil
• Shades: 3

Best Balm-Meets-Gloss: Polite Society Polite Pout Glossy Lip Balm

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Polite Society

Polite Pout Glossy Lip Balm

$21

Ulta Beauty

Shipin applying the Polite Society Polite Pout Glossy Lip Balm in French Caramel

Shanna Shipin

Why it's worth it: Sure, a viral product might grab our attention, but it takes a lot more to keep us hooked. At first swipe, Polite Society’s Polite Pout Glossy Lip Balm delivers that juicy, high-shine finish you want from a gloss, but the real draw is how comfortable and non-sticky it feels. Credit a nourishing blend of sunflower, jojoba, hazelnut, and soybean oils, which soften and condition lips, plus vitamin E for antioxidant support. The shades (and flavors) make it even more fun to swipe on—whether you go for French Caramel, Bumbleberry, Cinnamon Churro, Jelly Bean, or Peach Bellini (which has a hint of shimmer), there’s really no wrong choice.

Shipin before applying the Polite Society Polite Pout Glossy Lip Balm

Shanna Shipin

Shipin after applying the Polite Society Polite Pout Glossy Lip Balm in French Caramel

Shanna Shipin

Tester feedback from Shipin

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“I am addicted to these Polite Society lip balms! Every single flavor has been so deliciously fragrant and fun (where else can you find a purple “Bumbleberry” lip balm?!). The corresponding color is so lovely on the lips and enhances your natural pigment; my ultimate favorite is the French Caramel. This has to be among the most comfortable lip balms I've ever tested—I hardly realize I'm wearing it after applying, even with its higher-than-usual gloss factor. It's such fun, which is so welcome in the category of utilitarian beauty products.” —Shanna Shipin, senior commerce director

More to know

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• Key ingredients: sugar, castor seed oil, jojoba seed oil, beeswax, grapeseed oil
• Shades: 13 (including clear)

Best for Barrier Support: Personal Day Emotional Support Lip Balm

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Personal Day

Emotional Support Lip Balm

$24

Ulta Beauty

$24

Revolve

$24

Personal Day

Allure associate beauty director Sarah Kinonen applying the Personal Day Emotional Support Lip Balm in Original Clear

Sarah Kinonen

Why it’s worth it: Founded by actress Lili Reinhart, Personal Day was born from her own struggles with sensitive skin and her mission to create skin care that’s as gentle as it is effective. Enter the Emotional Support Lip Balm, a.k.a. your lip’s comfort companion. It gives lips that just-right mix of high shine and moisture that actually lasts, thanks to hyaluronic acid (which pulls in hydration like a magnet) and squalane (which locks it in, even if a little bit swipes off with your morning coffee). Aloe vera instantly soothes dryness, while jojoba, camellia, and almond oils keep your lips plush and soft all day.

Kinonen before applying the Personal Day Emotional Support Lip Balm in Original Clear

Sarah Kinonen

Kinonen after applying the Personal Day Emotional Support Lip Balm in Original Clear

Sarah Kinonen

Tester feedback from beauty director Sarah Kinonen

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"In my adult life, there are three beauty items I never leave the house without: hand sanitizer, sunscreen, and lip balm. The latter is a "if-I-forgot-it-my-day-is-ruined" kind of pick because I'm extremely prone to cold sores and have perpetually chapped lips—and if you've experienced either, you know they are both very uncomfortable. The Personal Day Emotional Support Lip Balm doesn't just have a cute name, it works! And it's really long-lasting. One swipe of the goopy-in-the-best-way balm with the curved applicator usually lasts me a few hours (if I don't eat in between). I've already gone through two tubes of this stuff—I love it so much!" —Sarah Kinonen, beauty director

More to know

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• Key ingredients: hyaluronic acid, squalane oil, aloe vera, jojoba seed oil
• Shades: 3 (including clear)

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you “overuse” lip balm?

You can overuse lip balm, “but it’s not necessarily harmful to be ‘addicted’ to moisturizing your lips,” says Dr. Chacon. What can happen, however, is that you become hyper-aware of even the tiniest bit of dryness. “Overuse can make it so that even the slightest hint of dryness is more noticeable,” she explains. That being said, if your lip balm has actives, ”like exfoliating acids or menthol, that can cause irritation if used too often," she says.

Why do lips feel drier after using some lip balms?

If your lips feel drier after applying lip balm, it could be due to the ingredients in the formula. “Certain ingredients can be harsh on delicate lip tissue, causing dryness, flaking, and peeling. Menthol, for example, has a tingly, cooling effect on lips and is often used in lip balms for that very feature. However, in a lot of cases, it’s too strong an ingredient, and in conjunction with sun exposure, menthol can damage the thin tissues of the lips," Dr. Chacon says.

What ingredients should I look for in a hydrating lip balm?

When shopping for a hydrating lip balm, focus on nourishing, emollient ingredients rather than those that create a temporary tingle. “I would avoid menthol, but for hydration, there are a lot of great options. Shea butter and cocoa butter are thick and great ingredients that generally can’t be overused. The same goes for the lighter options like jojoba oil or castor oil—both are ultra-hydrating ingredients that are great for moisturizing lips and beyond," says Dr. Chacon.

Meet the experts

• Anna Chacon, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in Miami
• Mona Gohara, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in Hamden, Connecticut, and associate clinical professor at Yale University
• Sejal Shah, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in New York City

How we test and review products

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

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

Our staff and testers

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

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

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“Fifty-three years.” That’s how long Bad Bunny joked his old-age transformation took for the 2026 Met Gala. In reality, says his prosthetics designer Mike Marino, the day-of process took three hours—plus a half-hour of makeup removal at the end of the night (micellar water, in this instance, would not cut it). Then there were the six weeks of prep: the scanning, designing, sculpting, and sewing until the multiple, hyperrealistic prosthetic pieces were complete.

Never one to follow the crowd, Benito Antonio Martínez Ocasio chose to tap into a section of the Costume Art exhibition that focused on bodies often overlooked in fashion and art, including pregnant and aging figures. Committed to exploring aging as an art, the singer’s team reached out to Marino, whose award-winning prosthetic designs you can spot in films like The Batman and The Irishman, and series like The Penguin and True Detective, not to mention Heidi Klum every Halloween since 2011.

Eric Rojas

Marino is no stranger to aging people (The Weeknd for his Dawn FM cover, for example) or transforming them completely (hours before he began working on Bad Bunny on Monday night, he was morphing Klum into a marble statue). But for the singer’s Met Gala appearance, Marino felt he needed a more realistic, almost regal approach to a travel through time. “The fact that he's distinguished and well-groomed is on purpose,” says Marino, who thought making Bad Bunny look weary and hunched would not have felt right for fashion’s most glamorous night of the year.

Marino was also continuing a long tradition in art history of presenting idealized representations of people and the human body. “If you think about famous portrait painters like [John Singer] Sargent and [Diego] Velázquez, they were often painting an idealized image of the subject, manipulating how they look to make them look more beautiful, or more colorful, more powerful in that portrait,” he says, referencing Velázquez’s painting of King Philip IV and the many propaganda paintings of Napoleon I. “I thought it was cool that, with his grooming, [Bad Bunny] had this distinguished look that was as if a Velázquez or Sargent portrait came to life."

Eric Rojas

For ideas on how to most realistically age the singer, Marino looked at octogenarian Puerto Ricans, as well as the singer's facial structure and skin texture. Turns out, designing prosthetics requires the same understanding of facial structure as a plastic surgeon. However, instead of minimizing the signs of aging, they enhance them. “I look at how he might age—that's how I approach makeup,” Marino says of his process. “I look at signals. For instance, I might see a little line [on the face] and then exploit that line, or I think, Maybe this eye bag will develop this way if he maintains his healthy lifestyle. I’m like someone’s worst nightmare,” he says, laughing.

Creating Bad Bunny's prosthetics—including a piece for the neck, cheeks and eye bags, forehead and eyelids, as well as earlobes and hands—was a multistep process that started with Marino taking skin color samples and a 3D-laser scan of his face and head. Those digital scans were then used to create a 3D-printed model of the singer’s head onto which Marino sculpted clay into the shapes that he wanted. “I sculpt every line, every crease, every pore into the clay and that’s what you’ll see on the prosthetics,” Marino explains.

“I might see a little line and then exploit that line or think, Maybe this eye bag will develop this way. I’m like someone’s worst nightmare.”

The next steps are a little complicated, but those miniature clay sculptures are then used to create molds and eventually cast pieces out of supersoft, superthin silicone, which are the prosthetics that get glued onto the face. “Because Benito had never worn prosthetics before, the pieces were very thin,” explains Marino. “I thought it would probably be easier if they were very soft, thin pieces so that you could still feel somewhat normal [wearing them].”

Eric Rojas

Once the silicone prosthetic pieces were cast, Marino then airbrushed every little freckle, pore, blood vessel, dark circle, and liver spot he wanted to age the skin. For Bad Bunny's hands, he used the airbrush machine to accentuate the tendons and veins and knuckles, “maybe to look a little more arthritic,” he says. (We're very confident in saying this is the first time a red-carpet makeup artist has tried to make a client look “more arthritic.”)

Eric Rojas

Also key to Old Bunny’s look were his stark white curls, brows, mustache, and beard, all of which had to be hand-knotted onto fine lace nets, a process that took Marino and his team—which included wigmaker Diana Choi and hairstylist Carla Farmer—weeks to complete. When it came to the wig, Marino mimicked the texture and pattern of Bad Bunny’s hair exactly, just in a white-gray color. “We took 360-degree photographs from above and below to determine his hair texture and pattern, and then made a white-haired version of that so that once his bald cap was on, it went right on top," Marino says of the process. “And he had eyebrows, too.”

“There’s a beauty to aging, and Benito put that on display… ‘This is what it will be like, and see how good I look.’”

Getting Bad Bunny ready on the day started with flattening down his hair and slipping on a bald cap, followed by gluing the prosthetics with a strong, medical-grade adhesive. “Every centimeter of it was glued on, so when he moved, the pieces moved with him,” says Marino. On top of that, Marino glued down the brows, beard pieces, and mustache, followed by the wig.

Eric Rojas

Marino’s work elicited a massive—and very positive—response the minute Bad Bunny stepped onto the Met Gala steps. And it was not lost on Allure contributor Valerie Monroe that when it comes to actual old people, society is not nearly as kind or accepting. “I think it’s fun that Bad Bunny showed up in an old-age costume… but I’d love for him to keep his costume on for a week, so I could watch his response to the inevitable ageism, the slights small and large, likely to confound him as he traveled in his older (young) body,” she wrote in an op-ed this week. “The most fun thing about his costume? He can take it off.”

That hypocrisy isn’t lost on Marino, who notes the pressures on people—especially people in Hollywood—to keep looking as young as possible. “It’s hard for a celebrity to look in the mirror and see flaws, because in today’s world, that’s exploited and [certain types of media] can be mean-spirited and write articles showing them at their worst.” That's why he found his work with Bad Bunny at this year’s Met Gala so meaningful. “There’s a beauty to aging, and Benito put that on display. He was trying to show people, ‘This is what it will be like, and see how good I look.’ And I think that’s a very cool thing.”

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Did you see photos of the inimitable Bad Bunny at the Met Gala? Old Bunny! Or, as one writer described him: Bad Rabbit.

Looking very much like a Diego Velázquez portrait of an aging Madrid nobleman, with a manicured gray beard and mustache, age-spotted hands, and elegant cane, 32-year-old Benito Antonio Martínez Ocasio added about 50 well-lived years to his profile. Bad Bunny’s past Met Gala looks have included a backless blazer and a 26-foot flowered train, and a boilersuit paired with a bejeweled bouffant. This year, he wore a classic all-black suit (custom Zara), with—because he’s still Bad Bunny and gender norms must at least be somewhat flouted—an oversized pussy bow around his neck (a reference to designer Charles James’s 1947 gown “Bustle,” which is part of the Costume Institute’s permanent collection). Prosthetics designer (and many time Best Makeup Academy Award nominee) Mike Marino was the artist behind every age spot vein and crease on Bad Bunny's face, neck, and hands. (Marino incidentally also did Heidi Klum’s makeup and prosthetics for this year’s Met, creating both an octogenarian and a Vestal Virgin, two categories of people one is least likely to see on a red carpet.)

Obviously, it was a considered choice, as the Met Costume Institute’s 2026 exhibition focuses on the relationship between fashion and the many forms of the human body. For the exhibition, the museum even created 25 new mannequins to include amongst its usual sylphlike models—there are larger bodies, dwarf bodies, pregnant bodies, bodies with prosthetics, bodies in wheelchairs, and yes the aging bodies rarely seen in the context of fashion. From the exhibition catalog: “Perhaps reflecting our fear of having to face our own mortality, the youth-oriented fashion industry has traditionally ignored the aged body.” Perhaps?

The most fun thing about his costume? He can take it off.

I’m reminded of a video clip I saw not long ago of Isabella Rossellini looking far older than her 73 years while shooting a film in Italy. She remarked that for movie roles, she’s now often made up to appear older than she looks. Why? She’s aging without interventions, which seems to make her vulnerable to add-ons. You want to look natural as you age? Great! We’ll make you look the most natural, we’ll agemaxx you, here, have another 10 years.

It seems we have some confusing feelings about human bodies showing their age. I think it’s fun that Bad Bunny showed up in an old-age costume at the Met Gala last night. But I’d love for him to keep his costume on for a week, so I could watch his response to the inevitable ageism, the slights small and large, likely to confound him as he traveled in his older (young) body. The most fun thing about his costume? He can take it off.

Most Met Gala attendees of course prepared for the big night (and some, for the rest of their lives) by submitting to procedures aiming to keep them youthful, or diminish even the most subtle manifestations of age. With flawless makeup and flattering red carpet lighting, 70-year-old Kris Jenner’s facelift was looking once again like our filtered ideal and everyone’s heartfelt slippage concerns have been allayed. Nicole Kidman, 58, resembled an adolescent Rapunzel, and 43-year-old Anne Hathaway does not appear to have aged a day since the first installment of The Devil Wears Prada premiered in 2006. We can be amused, however, by one of the guests play-acting what it’s like to forswear all of that clock-stopping intervention, pretending that he’s the old person he hopes he will one day be.

Courtesy of @matejanova, @lunabeautty_, @samantharudge.beautySave StorySave this storySave StorySave this story

There aren’t many things a sunny summer day can’t fix. Warm rays on your skin, clear blue skies streaked with wispy clouds, and fragrant blooms lining sidewalks have a way of instantly lifting your mood. This season, you won’t just be seeing these feel-good hues on your walk around the block—you’ll also see them on your hands, feet, and social feeds.

Nail artists predict a surge of serotonin-boosting shades that will define summer 2026 nail color trends. Jin Soon Choi, an editorial nail artist in New York City, points specifically to airy blues and red-leaning oranges. Don’t expect Day-Glo neons, but rather high-impact hues, especially against breezy linen and crisp poplin.

Colorful summer nails may not be anything new, but they support a broader shift toward playful and saturated beauty looks. In makeup, Y2K-inspired shimmer is edging out the minimalist “clean girl” aesthetic, while brands like NYX and Ceremonia are leaning into sunny, high-impact packaging, like punchy oranges and pinks paired with ingredients like guava and coconut.

“I keep thinking we’ll get away from the typical bright shades, but they define summer,” says Sarah Chue, a nail artist in Los Angeles, who has her eye on fuchsia this season. “Bright pink with a cat-eye shimmer will be popular,” she says.

If these nail colors feel familiar, that’s because they are. Many of this season’s standouts have been building all year, gradually intensifying with each passing trend cycle. Spring’s softer colors—like foggy blue, brick red, and matcha latte—have deepened into sky blue, blood orange, and mint green for summer. Even butter yellow has warmed up into a richer marigold, signaling a full shift from muted to vivid. Ahead, discover all the summer 2026 colors we (and top nail artists) can’t wait to get on our fingers.

Sky Blue

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Jinsoon

Nail Polish in Peace

$18

JinSoon

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Ssone

Lacquer in Forget Me Not

$25

Anthropologie

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Côte Beauty

Nail Polish in Sapphire Tide

$18

Côte Beauty

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Courtesy of @m.o.n.a.j

Sky blue is one of summer’s more obvious color trends—but no less captivating. This blue feels “cool and clean,” says Choi—a refreshing counterpoint to the season’s high temps. It channels clear midday skies and coastal breezes, making it an easy, refreshing reset when brighter colors start to feel overwhelming.

While the trend leans toward light, airy blues (often dubbed baby blue), there’s room to play within the spectrum. Keep things soft and bright with JinSoon Nail Polish in Peace or SSone Lacquer in Forget Me Not, two misty tones that resemble an early morning sky, or go a touch deeper with Côte Beauty Nail Polish in Sapphire Tide. With any of these shades, you’ll get the kind of manicure that complements everything from crisp linens to distressed denim

Courtesy of @JINsoonCourtesy of @gel.bymeganCourtesy of @m.o.n.a.j

Fuchsia

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Dazzle Dry

Nail Lacquer in The Duchess

$22

Amazon

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Kokoist

E-162 Cherry Grape

$11

Kokoist

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OPI

Gel Color in Glinda The Good

$19

Premier Nail Supply

$19

Beyond Beauty

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Chanel

Le Vernis Longwear Nail Color in Diva

$34

Nordstrom

$34

Chanel

Fuchsia is summer at full volume. Bold, punchy, and flirty, the pink hue brings instant energy to any manicure. It mirrors the vivid tones of tropical blooms and the brightest streaks of a sunset, making it feel right at home this time of year.

To translate the shade into a manicure this summer, try Dazzle Dry Nail Lacquer in The Duchess for a deep fuchsia nail set that works for fun day outings (like an amusement park trip), and elevated nighttime events (like dinner at a very exclusive rooftop restaurant). Kokoist E-162 Cherry Grape is a deep, moodier version of the color that’s still eye-catching. Chue loves OPI Gel Color in Glinda the Good. This punchy pink from the brand’s collaboration with Wicked only requires one to two swipes to achieve a high-impact look. Chanel Le Vernis Longwear Nail Color in Diva is a fuchsia that’s ultra-saturated and glossy, with a near-neon intensity.

Courtesy of @matejanovaCourtesy of @melenatedmaniCourtesy of @donebyhadleydunnCourtesy of JINsoon

Marigold

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Orly

Nail Polish in Claim to Fame

$10

Beyond Polish

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Aprés

Gel Couleur in Forever Marigold

$15

Beyond Polish

This cheery hue rivals the beauty of its namesake flower and a late-summer golden hour. “It’s kind of between butter yellow and bright lemon,” says Natalia Mercedes, a nail artist in New York City. Mercedes says this shade is popular among her clients who get aura nail designs.

OPI Nail Lacquer in Marigolden Hour hits it right on the nose with a subtle, glossy finish. For a gel option, the Best of Beauty Award-winning Aprés Gel Couleur in Forever Marigold is a creamy choice. And we love Orly Nail Polish in Claim to Fade, an opaque yellow with warm undertones.

Courtesy of @nailbeesCourtesy of @she.doesnailsCourtesy of @nailsbyzolaCourtesy of @ingrid_nel_nail_artist

Blood Orange

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Manucurist

Green Natural Nail Polish in Coral Reef

$14

Ulta Beauty

$14

Bluemercury

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Aprés

Nail Gel Couleur in Prawn Queen

$15

Beyond Polish

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DND

Gel Polish in Canadian Maple

$12

DND

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Londontown

Piccadilly Square

$16

Amazon

$16

Beyond Polish

This zesty, sunlit citrus sits snuggly between orange and red, and delivers a juicy pop of color that feels warm, vibrant, and instantly summery, like the feeling you get as you sip a bubbly aranciata on an Italian streetside. This isn’t the first time a fiery orange has popped up this year; in January, it had a quieter moment when Kylie Jenner wore the tone not once, but twice. It felt like a flash in the pan then, but now, it feels right on time.

For blood orange nail polishes that draw attention in all the right ways, we’re partial to Manucurist’s Green Natural Nail Polish in Coral Reef, a creamy, red-tinged orange. Aprés Gel Couleur in Prawn Queen and DND Gel Polish in Canadian Maple lean brighter with more obvious orange undertones—plus, they offer longer wear. Londontown’s Piccadilly is another feisty red-orange that captures the look with ease.

Courtesy of @kellykmbeautyCourtesy of @matejanovaCourtesy of @lunabeautty_Courtesy @chloesshaderoom

Cloud White

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Olive & June

Gel Polish in Icing Is The Best Part

$12

Amazon

$12

Ulta Beauty

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ILNP

Studio Color in Coconut Cream

$10

Amazon

“No one is doing stark white in the summer anymore,” says Chue. Instead, she’s seeing a clear shift toward softer, more diffused takes, like eggshell, chantilly, and the diamond of the season: cloud white. This version is less crisp and high-contrast, and airier—a veil of white that lets a hint of the natural nail peek through. It’s a subtle change, but one that makes the classic summer white manicure feel lighter, more modern, and more wearable.

For this look, Chue reaches for Olive & June Gel Polish in Icing Is the Best Part, a milky, sheer white with a glossy, ethereal finish. ILNP Studio Color in Coconut Cream offers a similarly soft wash of color—a delicate veil of creamy white that builds beautifully. For a touch of dimension, Manucurist Natural Nail Polish in Nebula delivers a pearly option with subtle holographic shimmer that catches the light without overpowering the look.

Courtesy of @ChuenailsCourtesy of @vanitebeautybarCourtesy of @matejanova

Mint

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Sally Hansen

Insta-Dri in Mint Me in St. Louis

$8 $6 (25% off)

Amazon

$8

Ulta Beauty

$7

Walmart

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Aprés

Glassea Eyed

$15

Beyond Polish

Courtesy of @brushedbyb_

Mint green had a firm grip on nail trends in the 2010s, and now, it’s making its way back with a subtle update. Today’s take feels less sugary and more elevated, with airy, slightly earthy undertones—a far cry from the brighter, almost neon versions of our youth. The best part? Its versatility: Whether soft or slightly saturated, mint tends to flatter every complexion.

“If you’re someone who wants to wear a deeper color, but is still drawn to the mystique of mint, try a mint green with a seafoam undertone,” says Stephanie Stone, an editorial nail artist and Sally Hansen ambassador, who recommends Sally Hansen Insta-Dri in Mint Me in St. Louis. For a gel option, we love Aprés Gel Couleur in Glassea Eyed, which has a creamy, high-shine finish.

Courtesy of @samantharudge.beautyCourtesy of @karlasoriginailkolorsCourtesy of @nail.envy.lorna

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It's not the Met Gala until Rihanna arrives! Last year, the musician and Fenty Beauty founder revealed her third pregnancy on the carpet, and this year, she turned the Met Gala into the Metallic Gala in a shiny, shimmery makeup look—and an outfit to match.

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The musician and Fenty Beauty founder wore a very cool metallic Maison Margiela gown with a dramatically jeweled, mock-neck bodice and crinkled circle cape with a slim-fitting skirt. She and makeup artist Hector Espinal carried the shiny texture and golden hue of her outfit through to her makeup with a true gold eye shadow across her lids, enhanced by a bronze tone in the crease and a light, pearly white under her slim, arched brows. Liner with just the subtlest hint of a wing and fluttery lashes anchored the fantastical gold shadow. Her skin gleamed, as did her lips, which were topped with an equally shiny golden gloss that caught the camera flashbulbs beautifully.

Espinal used a brand-new Fenty Beauty bronzer, the Sun Stalk'r Soufflé Pressed Mousse Cream Bronzer, on the star. (It launches May 15!) In addition, he applied the brand's Killawat Freestyle Highlighter for all that gorgeous glow, and shaped Rihanna's lips with the Trace'd Out Pencil Lip Liner in the cool taupe shade Amber Rose.

And that wasn't all! Rihanna leaned all the way in to red carpet maximalism with bold face gems, including a cluster in a starry shape near the outer corners of her eyes and smaller gems placed like teardrops below the inner corners. She also wore gems in her hair; a portion of her hair was slicked down with a series of gold wire curlicues from Jennifer Behr—40 in total!—pinned atop it, each one accented with a golden or black stone. The lengths were left loose, tucked into the drape of her oversized collar-slash-cape.

Summer events are just around the corner, and nothing says “Let's get fancy” like the warm glow of golden tones on your lids and lips. If Rihanna says we're wearing metallic makeup this summer, you better believe we're ready to frost ourselves!

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[LAST UPDATED AT 1:07 P.M. ET ON MAY 6, 2026] If there’s ever a reason to stock up on your K-beauty favorites (or finally try the ones sitting in your cart), it’s Amazon’s Summer Beauty Event—and lucky for us, it’s still going strong. The deals are good—like, restock-your-entire-routine good—with markdowns on glow-boosting serums, skin-plumping face masks, and lightweight sunscreens that actually make you want to reapply. At this point, K-beauty brands may need no introduction (Biodance, Beauty of Joseon, and CosRx, anyone?), but we’re still happy to spotlight our favorites—along with a few newly added finds and some under-the-radar gems worth discovering.

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• Best Amazon Summer Beauty Event Korean Skin-Care Deals
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​​Best Amazon Summer Beauty Event K-Beauty Deals You Can Shop Now

A Mist-HaveAnua PDRN Hyaluronic Acid Hydrating Capsule MistJump to review$21

Amazon

Pep UpCosrx The Peptide Collagen Hydrogel Eye PatchJump to review$23 $17 (26% off)

Amazon

Happy DanceBiodance Bio-Collagen Real Deep MaskJump to review$19

Amazon

All Wrapped UpMedicube Collagen Night Wrapping MaskJump to review$19

Amazon

Walking on SunshineLaneige Hydro UV Defense EX Sunscreen SPF 50+Jump to review$30

Amazon

Zero EffortBanila Co Clean it ZeroJump to review$21

Amazon

Cast AwayMedicube No Cast Just Glow SPF 50 SunscreenJump to review$22 $19 (14% off)

Amazon

And it’s not just skin care. The sale is packed with makeup picks—think cushion foundations, juicy lip tints, and dreamy blushes—as well as hair-care finds that treat your scalp like skin and leave strands glossy and healthy-looking. Whether you’re chasing that effortless, glassy glow this summer or looking to simplify your routine with multitasking formulas, this is your sign to stock up, especially since K-beauty is already known for being affordable (and now it’s even better on sale).

Best Amazon Summer Beauty Event Korean Skin-Care Deals

Allure contributing commerce writer Christa Joanna Lee applying the Anua PDRN Hyaluronic Acid Hydrating Capsule Mist and Anua Special Collagen Care Melting Patches

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Anua

PDRN Hyaluronic Acid Hydrating Capsule Mist

$21

Amazon

You’ve probably seen this sci-fi-looking bottle of Anua’s PDRN Hyaluronic Acid Oil Capsule Mist all over your feed—and yes, we can absolutely say it’s worth the hype. Each spritz floods skin with salmon-derived PDRN (a regenerative ingredient thought to help support skin repair, boost elasticity, and give that lit-from-within glow), along with hyaluronic acid and hydrolyzed collagen for hydration and bounce. “You can wear it alone or use it with the Anua Special Collagen Care Melting Patches for a DIY mask moment,” says Christa Joanna Lee, contributing commerce writer. “The glass-skin glow is so real with this one—it does make skin look damp, but it’s not sticky.”

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Medicube

Age-R Booster Pro

$220 $210 (5% off)

Amazon

Allure editor in chief Jessica Cruel using the Medicube Age-R Booster Pro

Jessica Cruel

There aren’t that many microcurrent devices we reach for (in fact, fewer than a handful), so when one stands out, it’s a big deal. “I must say: This is the most powerful device I have ever used,” says editor in chief Jessica Cruel. Her everyday setting is the Derma Shot, while the MC Mode is a go-to for lymphatic drainage before a big event. “I find the user experience is better than many microcurrent devices I’ve used in the past.”

Allure associate beauty editor Annie Blay-Tettey wearing the CosRx The Peptide Collagen Hydrogel Eye Patch

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Cosrx

The Peptide Collagen Hydrogel Eye Patch

$23 $17 (26% off)

Amazon

We all wish we were getting eight hours every night, but undereye masks are a clutch a.m. pick-me-up. CosRx’s Peptide Collagen Eye Patches deliver a cooling hit of hydration while helping to depuff, smooth, and brighten, thanks to niacinamide, caffeine, and peptides. “They make my undereye area feel soft, smooth, and supple,” says Annie Blay-Tettey, associate beauty editor.

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Rejuran

Turnover Ampoule

$52

Amazon

Allure commerce editor Sarah Han applying Rejuran Turnover Ampoule

Sarah Han

If serums are your everyday staples, ampoules are basically boosters—typically more tightly concentrated with actives and designed to kick your results up a notch. This Rejuran injectable-packed formula comes from the makers of Korea’s buzzy Rejuran injectable, so while it won’t mimic the exact results you’d get in-office, Rejuran’s Turnover Ampoule offers a much more approachable (and needle-free) way to tap into those benefits. “The more I use this serum, the more lifted my skin looks,” says Sarah Han, commerce editor.

Lee applying the Biodance Bio-Collagen Real Deep Mask

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Biodance

Bio-Collagen Real Deep Mask

$19

Amazon

Come for the TikTok-worthy peel-off moment, stay for the glass skin. Biodance’s Bio-Collagen Real Deep Mask is an overnight sheet mask packed with ultra-low-molecular-weight collagen and hyaluronic acid to deliver all that plumping, glow-boosting goodness deeper into the skin. “By morning, my skin feels deeply hydrated with zero effort as it does its thing while I sleep,” says Lee.

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Medicube

Collagen Night Wrapping Mask

$19

Amazon

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

Dianna Singh

If you’ve been around here for a minute, you’ve probably seen (and rewatched) this video of our editor peeling off the viral Medicube Collagen Night Wrapping Mask. “The way my skin looks with a layer of this mask is exactly how I want my skin to look without it: glassy, glowy, and clear,” says Dianna Singh, features director. It forms a soft, flexible film over your face that locks in moisture and active ingredients while you sleep, with hyaluronic acid to plump, niacinamide to smooth and refine, and ceramides to help seal in hydration and support the skin barrier.

Lee applying the Laneige Hydro UV Defense EX Sunscreen SPF 50+

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Laneige

Hydro UV Defense EX Sunscreen SPF 50+

$30

Amazon

We could fill our carts with Korean sunscreens alone (yes, they’re that good), but this one is especially worth it. Laneige’s Hydro UV Defense Sunscreen has a silky, fluid texture that feels more like skin care than SPF, thanks to glycerin and the brand’s hydro-ionized mineral water (a blend of magnesium, calcium, and zinc salts that help support the skin barrier, balance hydration, and keep things calm). It also doesn’t pill or look cakey (even over makeup, per our tester), so reapplying every two hours is actually doable.

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Banila Co

Clean it Zero

$21

Amazon

Former Allure commerce writer Jennifer Hussein using the Banila Co. Clean It Zero Calming Cleansing Balm

Jennifer Hussein

From waterproof eye makeup to long-wearing lip stains, this cleansing balm doesn’t mess around. “Its makeup-removing abilities are unmatched,” says Jennifer Hussein, contributing writer. One dollop of the sorbet-like formula melts into skin, breaking down full-coverage makeup with zero aggressive rubbing, while a blend of five cica extracts helps soothe and comfort sensitive skin.

Allure commerce producer Sarah Hoffmann removing the Sungboon Editor Deep Collagen Overnight Mask

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Sungboon Editor

Deep Collagen Overnight Mask

$19

Amazon

Another mask made to work while you snooze (what can we say, we love a multitasker), Sungboon Editor’s Deep Collagen Overnight Mask is packed with collagen and multiple peptides for a serious hydration boost that’s still gentle enough for sensitive skin. And don’t worry, it actually stays put: “I roll around a lot when I sleep, and it was still tacked to my face when I woke up,” says Sarah Hoffman, commerce producer.

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Beauty of Joseon

Revive Eye Serum

$17

Amazon

Han applying the Beauty of Joseon Revive Eye Serum

Sarah Han

Give Beauty of Joseon’s Revive Eye Serum a few weeks, and it might just settle the whole “do you really need an eye cream?” debate (turns out, you do). “It has a lightweight, custardy-gel texture that absorbs almost immediately and makes my undereyes look a tad brighter and less puffy the next morning,” says Han. Stabilized retinal delivers smoothing benefits with less risk of irritation, ginseng helps revive dull, tired-looking skin, and glycerin keeps everything comfortably hydrated.

Han applying the CosRx The 6 Peptide Skin Booster

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Cosrx

The 6 Peptide Skin Booster

$25 $18 (28% off)

Amazon

One pump of this editor’s favorite and you’ll wonder what took you so long to try CosRx’s The 6 Peptide Skin Booster. “I’m obsessed with the texture,” says Han. “I use this as a toner, a.k.a. the first step following cleansing, and I like that it’s not watery—more akin to a lightweight gel serum.” True to its name, it’s loaded with peptides to help balance excess oil, boost elasticity, and bring back that glow.

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Medicube

No Cast Just Glow SPF 50 Sunscreen

$22 $19 (14% off)

Amazon

Han applying the Medicube No Cast Just Glow Collagen Sunscreen SPF 50

Sarah Han

No promises that by the time you finish reading this, Medicube’s No Cast Just Glow SPF 50 will still be in stock. (Could our resident K-beauty expert calling it “the glowiest sunscreen ever” have something to do with it? We think so.) Niacinamide helps brighten and even things out, while hyaluronic acid floods skin with hydration for a plump, fresh look. Collagen and peptides bring the bounce, and a hit of soothing Centella asiatica keeps everything calm and happy.

Blay-Tettey applying the Beauty of Joseon Glow Serum

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Beauty of Joseon

Propolis + Niacinamide Glow Serum

$27 $24 (11% off)

Amazon

“I’m always on a quest to find products that boost my skin’s glow, and this niacinamide-based serum has been a great addition,” says Blay-Tettey. Inspired by Korea’s Joseon Dynasty, which celebrated graceful, natural elegance, it helps smooth uneven texture and refine the look of pores with betaine salicylate (a gentle beta hydroxy acid), while turmeric pairs with niacinamide to brighten and calm skin.

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Torriden

Dive In Soothing Cream

$27

Amazon

Han applying the Torriden Dive In Soothing Cream

Sarah Han

Hyaluronic acid isn’t exactly new, but Torriden’s Dive In Soothing Cream takes it to the next level with five types that leave skin feeling practically drenched. Hee Jin Koh, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in New Jersey, keeps this on her vanity for its featherlight gel-cream texture that layers well under sunscreen and makeup. “The experience of applying this cooling, refreshing cream is just 10/10 all around,” says Han.

Allure former senior news editor Nicola Dall’Asen using the Man:yo Pure Cleansing Oil

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Ma:nyo

Cleansing Oil

$23 $18 (22% off)

Amazon

Ma:nyo’s Cleansing Oil is an Allure editor favorite that’s stood the test of time—more than a decade after its debut, it’s still picking up a 2025 Best of Beauty Award, which says a lot. Packed with 14 antioxidant-rich plant oils, it moisturizes and plumps while argan kernel oil helps balance sebum and support cell turnover for a smoother-looking complexion. “It’s the only reason my facialists are always telling me there’s no need for extractions,” says Nicola Dall’Asen, former senior news editor.

Best Amazon Summer Beauty Event Korean Makeup Deals

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Clio

Kill Lash Superproof Mascara

$15

Amazon

Lee applying the Clio Kill Lash Superproof Mascara

When you want your mascara to do it all—volumize, lift, and lengthen—Clio’s Kill Lash Superproof Mascara needs to be in your rotation. “Even my tiny, stubby lashes get definition and thickness—and importantly, no smudging,” says Lee. The slim brush is especially forgiving on short lashes, catching them right at the root without smearing.

Han applying the Unleashia Glitterpedia Eye Palette in No.1 All of Glitter

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Unleashia

Glitterpedia Eyeshadow Palette

$26 $20 (23% off)

Amazon

No matter your age, we firmly believe there’s room for a little sparkle moment. Unleashia’s Glitterpedia Eyeshadow Palette delivers just that. It mixes matte, shimmer, and multidimensional glitter shades that feel surprisingly wearable—even for everyday looks. “I like how they brighten and emphasize my eyes without creating shadows, and there’s very little (if any!) blending required,” says Han.

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Clio

Kill Cover Founwear Cushion

$25

Amazon

Lee applying the Clio Kill Cover Founwear Cushion

Christa Joanna Lee

Clio’s Kill Cover Founwear Cushion comes in a sleek compact that makes applying your base almost too easy. Press the puff into the mesh, and it dispenses just the right amount of product without any spillage. “While it’s buildable, you won’t really need multiple passes for it to even out your skin tone,” says Lee. Like many cushion foundations, shade ranges can skew limited—K-beauty brands have historically catered to a narrower spectrum—but this one is a bit more impressive, with 20 shades to choose from. Plus, the lightweight, peptide-infused formula isn’t heavily pigmented, giving it a little more flexibility across tones.

Han applying the Peripera Mood Glowy Tint

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Peripera

Ink Mood Glowy Tint

$13

Amazon

These Hwahae (Korea’s go-to beauty review app) chart-topping lip stains are very affordable—even before the discount—come in a wide range of hues, and feel as hydrating as a balm. “Whether you like to go subtle or bold, this tint is incredibly buildable and accommodates all preferences,” says Han.

P.S. Click the checkbox that says “coupon price” for $9.03 to get the discount!

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CNP

Propolis Lipcerin Lip Balm

$18 $16 (11% off)

Amazon

Allure beauty director Sarah Kinonen applying the CNP Propolis Lipcerin Lip Balm

Sarah Kinonen

Whether you wear it solo, swipe it on as a hydrating base, or layer it over lip color for extra sheen, CNP’s Propolis Lipcerin Lip Balm feels less like a waxy balm and more like a treatment for dry lips. “It’s a thick consistency, thanks to the propolis (a.k.a. ‘bee glue,’ which is antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory), but it instantly melts onto lips like butter—and lasts,” says Sarah Kinonen, beauty director.

Allure former commerce writer Lily Wohlner applying the Dr. Jart+ BB Premium Beauty Balm

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Dr. Jart+

BB Premium Beauty Bal

$49

Amazon

Whenever you need a break from full-coverage foundation—or if a more natural look is just your speed—Dr. Jart+’s Premium Beauty Balm is a my-skin-but-better go-to. It seamlessly evens out skin tone with a blend of soy, licorice, vitamin C, niacinamide, and arbutin, that “evens out imperfections while still looking light and natural,” says Lily Wohlner, former commerce writer. And with SPF 40, it adds a little extra insurance on top of your standalone sunscreen.

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Hera

Sensual Tinted Shine Lip Serum

$35

Amazon

If you were just looking at the ingredient list, you might think this was a face serum, but it’s actually for lips. Hera’s Sensual Tinted Shine Lip Serum blurs the line between skin care and lip color, relying on multiple forms of hyaluronic acid to pull in and lock in moisture, plus squalane, camellia seed oil, and ceramides to reinforce the lip barrier and smooth dryness. It repairs dry, chapped lips while leaving behind shiny, long-lasting color (proof that your lips can glow just as much as your skin).

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Jung Saem Mool

Artist Cushion Highlighter

$23

Amazon

It’s a bummer when you’ve spent all that time perfecting your base only for your highlighter to lift it right off. Jung Saem Mool’s Artist Cushion Highlighter sidesteps that issue completely, allowing you to tap on a dewy, multidimensional glow without lifting or smearing what’s underneath. It’s also infused with ceramides and peptides, so while you’re getting that fresh, lit-from-within finish, you’re also helping support your skin barrier and comforting skin. Win-win.

P.S. Click the checkbox that says “coupon price” for $18.40 to get the discount!

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Rom&nd

Better Than Cheek

$12

Amazon

If you love a hint of color with that skin-like, soft-matte finish, Rom&nd’s Better Than Cheek melts in so seamlessly—no telltale powder streaks in sight. The shades, soft pastels inspired by dried fruits (Strawberry Milk is the dreamiest pink), add a fresh, diffused wash of color that’s trending everywhere right now.

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Tirtir

Mask Fit Waterproof Setting Spray

$15

Amazon

What’s the point of a fresh summer makeup haul if it’s just going to melt off in the heat? TirTir’s Mask Fit Waterproof Setting Spray locks everything in place for up to 24 hours, holding strong through sweat, humidity, and pool days without feeling sticky or heavy. It leaves behind a breathable, semi-matte finish that stays fresh and comfortable on all skin types.

Best Amazon Summer Beauty Event Korean Hair-Care Deals

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Medicube

Rosemary PDRN Clarifying Thickening Shampoo

$27 $24 (11% off)

Amazon

Lee after using the Medicube The Rosemary PDRN Clarifying Thickening Shampoo

Christa Joanna Lee

Did you hear? Medicube is now offering hair care, which makes sense given that K-beauty has always treated the scalp like the rest of your skin. The Rosemary PDRN Clarifying Thickening Shampoo pairs soothing, barrier-supporting PDRN with circulation-boosting rosemary to help reduce flakes, calm itchiness, and support fuller-looking hair. “The tingly-ness of this shampoo feels so refreshing and revitalizing on my scalp,” says Lee. “I’ve noticed less itchiness, a boost in volume, and fewer flakes.” The corresponding conditioner contains the same ingredients and is meant to be used directly on the scalp, not just the mid-lengths to ends.

Han applying the Aromatica Rosemary Root Enhancer

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Aromatica

Rosemary Root Enhancer

$20 $18 (10% off)

Amazon

We debated a separate hair-care section on this list—after all, K-beauty treats the scalp like skin. Aromatica’s Rosemary Root Enhancer is all about TLC for your scalp by blending nutrient-rich staples like rice, soybean, and sesame with ginger, rosemary oil, and a hit of menthol for an instantly refreshed feel. “This cooling root spray curbs any itchiness and discomfort,” says Han.

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Cosrx

Peptide 132 Hair Bonding Oil

$23 $19 (17% off)

Amazon

Allure senior commerce director Shanna Shipin applying the CosRx Peptide 132 Ultra Perfect Hair Bonding Oil Serum

Shanna Shipin

CosRx is here to match glass hair with your glass skin. Its Peptide-132 Hair Bonding Oil is a lightweight fix that helps strengthen damaged bonds, smooth frizz, temporarily seal split ends, and add glossy shine—without weighing hair down. “This hair oil serum has also been great with extra dry ends and doesn’t leave your hands feeling super greasy,” says Shanna Shipin, senior commerce director.

Lee applying the Mise en Scène Argan Oil Repair Mask

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Mise en Scene

Argan Oil Repair Mask

$20

Amazon

Packed with argan oil, amino acids, and keratin-like proteins, Mise en Scène’s Argan Oil Repair Mask mends dry, damaged, or overprocessed hair to leave it soft, glossy, and tangle-free. “It’s surprisingly rich for a K-beauty product,” yet delivers deep moisture without leaving hair feeling coated, says Marie Jhin, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in San Carlos, California.

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British M

Hair Butter

$34

Amazon

Despite the name, British M’s Hair Butter is anything but greasy. Shea butter and argan oil provide deep hydration, while hydrolyzed collagen, oat protein, and sweet almond protein help strengthen dry, weakened strands. The texture feels “rich but breathable,” delivering frizz control and definition without weighing down hair, says Cherin Choi, a hairstylist and colorist based in Los Angeles.

How We Find the Best Amazon Summer Event Beauty Deals

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

Why Trust Allure?

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

More K-beauty goodness, right this way:

• Korean Makeup Is the New Frontier of K-Beauty
• 12 Best Korean Hair Treatment Products for the Glass Hair of Your Dreams
• The Best Korean Skin Care for Dry Skin to Get Lasting Hydration