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TL;DR:

• What it is: An iconic, nude-pink lip liner paired with a sheer pink gloss
• What it does: Defines and shapes lips with a universally-flattering lip combo
• Who it’s for: Pillow Talk fans and soon-to-be Pillow Talk fans alike

Everyone already knows that Charlotte Tilbury’s Pillow Talk deserves all its flowers. It’s the nude-pink lip color that launched a thousand lip combos, inspired an entire collection, and somehow manages to look good on basically everyone. So, how do you make an icon even more iconic? Add a really, really good gloss.

The Charlotte Tilbury Glossy Fresh Pink Lip Duo pairs Pillow Talk Lip Cheat with Collagen Lip Bath in Refresh Rose, a sheer pink gloss that gives the famous shade a fresh, juicy update. Pillow Talk gives us that soft, your-lips-but-better definition, while Refresh Rose adds a subtle wash of color and high-shine finish.

Together, they create the kind of polished-but-not-too-done lip look we can wear pretty much anywhere—and, more importantly, one we don’t have to think too hard about getting right.

Charlotte Tilbury Glossy Fresh Pink Lip Duo is in the October Allure Beauty Box.

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Charlotte Tilbury Glossy Fresh Pink Lip Duo

$26 at Charlotte Tilbury$26 at Charlotte Tilbury

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Another day, another show-stopping makeup look for pop star Zara Larsson by makeup artist Sophia Sinot! With hit after hit after hit popping up on our phone screens, you think we'd get used to seeing such fun, creative glam, but we've got one word for you: Never. Their latest collab, however, is a marked departure from the colorful creations the duo has become known for—and it may just spark some Halloween makeup inspiration too.

For Larsson's tour stop in Sydney, Australia, Sinot took a break from the bold colors and neons the star has become known for in favor of icy, frosty white eye shadow, which she applied all over Larsson's lids, spanning from just past her inner corners all the way up to the arch of her brow. The color isn't stark white, but rather a silvery, snowy color fit for an ice queen—or an angel! Sinot then applied a smattering of rhinestones to Larsson's inner crease, but most of the sparkle was concentrated just past her outer lashes and up her temples in a wing-like shape.

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Though the eyes were the centerpiece of Larsson's makeup, as usual, the rest of her glam deserves a moment too. Sinot kept the angelic vibes going with a bubblegum pink blush and lined mauve lip, plus lots of lashes and a little body glitter across Larsson's chest. Larsson and Sinot typically reach for bright colors when doing her makeup for shows and often find inspiration in nature, like their ocean creature series or the “northern lights” eyes. However, Sinot noted that the angel glam is “one of my fav looks we've done,” and we'd have to agree. It's just so pretty!

If you're planning a devil and angel BFF costume or felt inspired by the now-iconic shimmery, frosted makeup at the Victoria's Secret show, Larsson's ice angel makeup arrived right on time! You've got a little over a week to practice your rhinestone-placing technique, but if you don't have the world's steadiest hands, there's always her cute ode to Hello Kitty.

More cool celeb beauty news:

• Olivia Colman Is the Indisputable New Queen of Quiet Silver
• Taylor Swift's Soft Glam at the Academy Museum Gala Is Pure Romance
• Megan Thee Stallion Serves Up Two White-Blonde Looks in Her “Thin Ice” Video

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Living with psoriasis doesn’t necessarily mean you have to overhaul your skin- or scalp-care routine. Psoriasis is caused by immune system dysfunction, not external irritants, so you can use many topical products safely as long as they don’t cause skin damage. However, anything with the potential to cause trauma to the skin—like a potent acid or strong surfactant—could spell trouble.

One reason topicals can lead to flare-ups is the Koebner phenomenon, which is when “local trauma stimulates the immune system to develop psoriasis in the traumatized skin,” says Shira Y. Wieder, MD, a board-certified dermatologist at Montefiore Einstein Advanced Care in New York City. When this happens new plaques appear in “healthy” areas of skin where there was previously no visible psoriasis.

The Koebner phenomenon does not affect everyone with psoriasis; frequently cited research estimates it occurs in about 25% to 30% of patients. “Not everyone with psoriasis has this response, but if you’ve ever watched a plaque appear at a cut, a scratch, or a sunburn, assume you’re someone who does,” says Omar Noor, MD, a New York City-based board-certified dermatologist.

Even if you don’t experience Koebnerization, applying a potentially irritating product to an area with visible psoriasis could worsen an existing flare-up. “If you have sensitivity [to an ingredient], then, yes, that’s going to trigger irritation to your skin, which will result in a flare in your psoriasis,” says Divya Shokeen, MD, a board-certified dermatologist and the founder of OSVI Dermatology and Surgical Institute in California. That’s why it’s important to do a small patch test anytime you try a new product to see if it triggers a reaction.

Overall, there’s a pretty big risk difference for patients whose psoriasis is controlled with medication or other treatments and those whose psoriasis isn’t. “If you haven’t found a treatment that controls your psoriasis yet, your skin is already primed to react, and a product that causes even mild trauma can seed a new plaque at that spot,” Dr. Noor says. “If your psoriasis is controlled, especially on a systemic treatment like a biologic, that risk drops substantially, but not to zero.” The key is knowing what’s likely to irritate your skin during a flare and what may spark an issue day-to-day even when your skin is clear.

Dr. Noor says patients with psoriasis in general should prioritize hydration in their skin-care routine. This can help soften plaques, improving both their appearance and any discomfort they cause. If you want to experiment with other types of ingredients—or are eager for a new tattoo or hair color—here are some guidelines on what you should approach with caution.

Meet the experts:

• Tracy Evans, MD, is a board-certified dermatologist and the medical director of Pacific Skin and Cosmetic Dermatology in California.
• Omar Noor, MD, is a New York City–based board-certified dermatologist.
• Divya Shokeen, MD, is a board-certified dermatologist and the founder of OSVI Dermatology and Surgical Institute in California.
• Shira Y. Wieder, MD, is a board-certified dermatologist at Montefiore Einstein Advanced Care in New York City.

1. High Concentration Skin Care Acids

Every dermatologist we spoke to brought up alpha-hydroxy acids (AHAs) and beta-hydroxy acids (BHAs). This includes glycolic, lactic, mandelic, and L-ascorbic acids.

“Psoriasis typically [causes] thick, scaly plaques,” Dr. Noor says. “There’s this misconception that the skin is thicker, so therefore you need to use stronger products in order to improve your skin.” While some skin-care acids can help manage psoriasis (more on that in a moment), the doctors caution against any product with a formula that contains a high percentage of these ingredients.

“AHAs and BHAs work by breaking down the bonds that hold dead surface cells together,” Dr. Noor says. “At higher strengths, or on skin that’s already inflamed, they [can] reach deeper than intended and can cause genuine injury.” This can lead to Koebnerization or worsen an existing flare-up.

Although everyone’s tolerance is different, Dr. Noor says that for leave-on products, he generally recommends patients with psoriasis stick to formulas with 5% or less glycolic acid, about 8% or less lactic acid, or up to 10% mandelic acid. Dr. Shokeen also advises against using L-ascorbic acid (the purest and most potent form of vitamin C) at concentrations of 15% or higher, which she says can be very irritating.

One skin care acid of note that’s an exception to this rule is salicylic acid. The dermatologists Allure spoke to agree that it could actually help treat psoriasis symptoms—as long as it’s paired with moisturizing ingredients. “Salicylic acid can be very drying for some people, [but] it can also be great for psoriasis because it’ll get rid of all the scale,” Dr. Wieder says. “We use lots of moisturizers imbued with salicylic acid” for psoriasis patients, she adds.

Dr. Shokeen says careful use of salicylic acid can even improve the effectiveness of topical psoriasis treatments. “Our skin is very good at keeping things out,” she says. “Salicylic acid will allow for a gentle exfoliation of that top layer to allow better penetration of ingredients [found in commonly prescribed psoriasis treatments] like steroids, vitamin D, and analogues [such as] calcipotriene … that can help decrease that inflammatory response.” Like with other skin-care acids, stick to formulas with a low concentration of salicylic acid—Dr. Shokeen says 2% in over-the-counter products is generally safe for most patients.

2. Chemical peels

This caution about many skin-care acids extends to chemical peels, which are usually made from a combination of acids in high concentrations. “Anything that’s going to break the barrier of the skin could result in psoriasis flaring more,” says Tracy Evans, MD, a board-certified dermatologist and the medical director of Pacific Skin and Cosmetic Dermatology in California. And that’s exactly what a peel does. “By definition a chemical peel [impairs the skin barrier],” Dr. Wieder says. “That’s the whole point of it. It’s a limited damage to the upper layers of the epidermis so that they exfoliate off.” Dr. Wieder says medium-depth and deep peels should raise red flags for psoriasis patients, although she notes she’d be less concerned about someone whose psoriasis is well-controlled with biologic medication opting for these treatments.

3. Physical exfoliants

Much like their chemical cousins, physical exfoliants are something you might assume would be helpful but can actually make things worse. “Psoriasis patients come in every day thinking they have to scrub off the scales,” Dr. Noor says. “They use walnut shells, apricot scrubs, and they’re just going to town with a loofah.”

While this approach could temporarily exfoliate away some scales, it might ultimately exacerbate your psoriasis or trigger new patches, as the scrubby bits can cause tiny cuts and scratches on the skin.

4. Abrasive in-office treatments

If exfoliating scrubs—which only remove the surface layer of skin—are risky for psoriasis, it makes sense that stronger in-office treatments like microneedling and certain lasers could also cause problems. “You can’t treat your skin with sandpaper,” Dr. Noor says. “You don’t want to sandblast your skin with all these exfoliants or some of these devices.”

Again, if your psoriasis is well-controlled, there’s less of a risk of a flare-up, but “if you feel like you are flaring, I would avoid the treatment altogether,” Dr. Evans says.

It’s worth noting that some laser treatments have been shown to successfully treat psoriasis when used with caution. “We have seen specifically that excimer treatments for redness can be very effective in psoriasis patients,” Dr. Noor says.

5. Strong surfactants

Since hydration should be one of the number one skin-care goal for psoriasis patients, using intense cleansers could lead to trouble. “You may want to be a little more cautious around harsh chemicals like surfactants that really strip the skin of oils,” Dr. Wieder says, noting that this impairs the skin barrier.

Dr. Noor specifically cautions against cleansers that “lather like dish soap,” which can signal that the product is heavy on surfactants like sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS). Surfactants strip away the good lipids, ceramides, and moisturizing factors in our skin, he explains. “If your soap lathers like dish soap, it’s no good because you’re treating your skin like a dirty pan, which we don’t want,” Dr. Noor says. He recommends gentle cleansers with hydrating ingredients, such as Cetaphil Gentle Skin Cleanser, which provides hydration without stripping the skin’s natural moisture barrier.

6. Fragrance and unscented products

Fragrance can be a bit tricky for people with psoriasis. Some patients might be totally fine with scented products, while others may be sensitive to them. If you fall into the latter camp, a fragrance could trigger a flare-up, just like any other ingredient that sparks sensitivity, Dr. Shokeen says.

Perhaps a bit counterintuitively unscented products can also be a cause for concern. “Unscented usually means that the companies are using chemicals to hide the scents,” Dr. Noor says. “Those chemicals can make the products worse for you if you have psoriasis. What you want to look for is ‘fragrance-free.’”

7. Pure essential oils

While products with all-natural ingredients might seem better for sensitive skin, dermatologists typically warn against them for patients with psoriasis. “Botanical doesn’t always mean benign,” Dr. Noor says. “Poison ivy is 100% natural.”

Tea tree oil, peppermint oil, menthol, and witch hazel are four natural ingredients to watch out for. “These can be really inflammatory,” Dr. Shokeen says. “They can trigger an immune response on your skin, which can then flare your psoriasis.” She says patients sometimes apply cooling menthol creams to plaque flare-ups in an attempt to calm the area—but it might actually make things worse.

“People love the concept of the tingling sensation,” like the feeling you get when you apply a product that contains peppermint oil, Dr. Noor says. “Tingling is not good with psoriasis.”

8. Lightweight moisturizers

Any moisturizer is better than no moisturizer for someone with psoriasis, but some will be more effective than others. One way companies make creams thinner is by adding alcohol, Dr. Noor says. This might make for a nice, lightweight lotion, but it can also further dry out psoriatic skin.

Dr. Noor recommends looking for richer creams with multiple lipids. “Nothing that comes out of a pump,” he says. “You have to thin the lotions out to get it out of a pump.”

9. Hair dyes

Some patients can be allergic to certain hair-dye ingredients. Dr. Noor says para-phenylenediamine (PPD) is a common one that causes issues. For someone without psoriasis having a reaction to PPD could just mean a few days or weeks of irritation. “The problem is the allergic reaction in a psoriasis patient creates an inflammatory mess,” Dr. Noor says. “The immune system is already edgy when you have psoriasis.” Introducing an ingredient you’re allergic to can “cause more psoriasis, more misery, and really make things more difficult to keep under control,” he says.

10. Tattoos

While tattoo ink can also cause allergic reactions, it’s the physical act of tattooing—a needle poking into your skin over and over and over—that’s more likely to be an issue for a psoriasis patient who experiences Koebnerization, Dr. Noor says. “[That] environment creates microtrauma that can trigger more psoriasis,” he explains. “It’s a bummer.”

Dr. Wieder also advises patients with psoriasis to approach tattoos with caution. “I’ve seen people develop psoriasis in the shape of their tattoo,” she says.

However, that doesn’t mean everyone with psoriasis should steer clear of building a body-art collection. Dr. Noor says that there are many great injectable and oral medications that can significantly subdue psoriasis patients’ dysregulated immune system, therefore reducing the chance of an inflammatory response. These treatments “allow you to get tattoos … and not have to worry about developing psoriasis in the tattooed areas,” he says.

And that brings us back to the top skin-care takeaway for anyone with psoriasis: The first step in your routine is to get the condition under control. “When you have psoriasis you should see a dermatologist,” Dr. Evans says. The doctor will help you settle on a treatment plan that works and identify any ingredients you’re still sensitive to, regardless of how well-controlled your psoriasis is. Those trigger ingredients aside, Dr. Evans says, “once your disease is under control, you pretty much can use what you want.” Just make sure to do a patch test before you go all in.

$23 at YepodaSave StorySave this storySave StorySave this story

TL;DR:

• What it is: A foaming face wash that makes for the perfect second step in your double-cleanse routine
• What it does: Made with salicylic acid to clear out pores and gently exfoliate
• Who it’s for: All skin types, but especially those that need a deep clean

We never thought we’d say washing our face could be fun, but that’s because we weren’t properly introduced to Yepoda The Bubble Double—until now.

This frothy cleanser—made with pore-clearing salicylic acid and brightening pomegranate—has easily become the hero step in our double-cleanse routine.

After we’ve melted away the day’s makeup with either an oil or balm (we switch it up based on the weather, the amount of makeup we have on, etc.), just two bubbly pumps of this cleanser, lightly massaged into skin, removes anything leftover from step one. The result is squeaky-clean skin without the tight, squeaky feel.

Yepoda The Bubble Double is in the October Allure Beauty Box.

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Yepoda The Bubble Double

$23 at Yepoda$23 at Yepoda

Collage: Jemeria Davison; Source images: Courtesy of brandsSave StorySave this storySave StorySave this story

When your skin is easily irritated by what can feel like everything under the sun, the best sunscreens for sensitive skin may be your saving grace. Even the most beloved sunscreen formulas might not be a good match for reactive skin, since certain chemical UV filters can penetrate the skin and trigger irritation or allergic reactions in some people. Enter mineral sunscreens, which make up every recommendation on our list. These use zinc oxide and titanium dioxide to protect against UV rays while largely staying on the skin's surface, making them less likely to trigger irritation. The growing skin-care market is catering to those with reactive skin more than ever, so it's easier to find a formula that suits you and your sensitivity while providing top-of-the-line protection against cancer-causing sun exposure.

Our Top Sunscreens for Sensitive Skin

• Best Overall: EltaMD UV Skin Recovery Red Color Correcting Green Tint SPF 50, $53
• Best for Redness: Innisfree Daily UV Mineral Sunscreen SPF 45, $22
• Best Drugstore: La Roche-Posay Anthelios 50 Mineral Ultra Light Sunscreen, $43
• Best Over Makeup: Colorescience Sunforgettable Total Protection Brush-On Shield SPF 50, $58

Frequently Asked QuestionsAccordionItemContainerButtonLargeChevron

• How can I benefit from sunscreen for sensitive skin?
• What's the difference between a chemical and a mineral sunscreen?
• Meet the experts
• How we test and review products
• Our staff and testers

Read on for the favorites trusted and recommended by editors and dermatologists that leave skin soothed and, more importantly, protected from the sun (with proper reapplication, of course).

Best Overall: EltaMD UV Skin Recovery Red Color Correcting Green Tint SPF 50

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EltaMD

UV Skin Recovery Red Color Correcting SPF 50

$53

Amazon

$53

Dermstore

$53

Bluemercury

Allure senior editor Jesa Marie Calaor applying EltaMD’s UV Skin Recovery SPF 50 Sunscreen

Jesa Marie Calaor

Why it's worth it: A 2025 Best of Beauty Award winner, EltaMD's UV Skin Recovery Red Color Correcting SPF 50 is like the Swiss Army knife of sunscreens—sensitive-skin-friendly, non-greasy, and redness-neutralizing, thanks to a green tint that works some color-theory magic. That green pigment comes from Centella asiatica (cica), a skin-care staple that counteracts redness and soothes irritation. The amino acid complex—comprising taurine, arginine, and glycine—was refined through over 100 rounds of testing to repair damage and help prevent future irritation and redness. This mineral sunscreen is also packed with ceramides to strengthen the skin barrier and deliver lasting hydration, ensuring your complexion remains calm, protected, and comfortable throughout the day.

Allure content director Sophia Panych before applying the EltaMD UV Skin Recovery Red Color Correcting Green Tint SPF 50

Sophia Panych

Panych after applying the EltaMD UV Skin Recovery Red Color Correcting Green Tint SPF 50

Sophia Panych

Tester feedback from senior editor Jesa Marie Calaor

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“I love how this green sunscreen tones down the redness I typically experience around my nose and on my cheeks. It feels so good—like a moisturizer—and never ever leaves a white cast.” —Jesa Marie Calaor, senior editor

Tester feedback from content director Sophia Panych

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“After my morning cleanse, vitamin C serum, and face cream, I applied two to three pumps of the stuff on my face. It goes on green, then immediately turns white, and then sheers out as you rub it in. On days when I wore makeup, I’d wait about five minutes before applying my favorite base (Pat McGrath Labs Skin Fetish Sublime Perfection Foundation, Monika Blunder Blunder Cover, or the Lisa Eldridge Enhancing Skin Tint). The EltaMD UV Skin Recovery worked well with all of them and didn’t pill throughout the day. I'm in my late 30s, have combination skin, and live in a city with very hard water that dries you out from head to toe. I loved that this sunscreen left my complexion looking dewy, something I’ve never seen from an all-mineral sunscreen.” —Sophia Panych, content director

More to know

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• Type: mineral
• Key ingredients: 12.9% zinc oxide, amino acids, cica, ceramides
• Tinted: yes (green tinted)
• Water-resistant: no
• Fragrance-free: yes
• Who it’s for: everyone

Best for Redness: Innisfree Daily UV Mineral Sunscreen SPF 45

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Innisfree

Daily UV Mineral Sunscreen SPF 45

$22

Amazon

$22

Sephora

$22

Shop

Allure contributing commerce writer Christa Joanna Lee applying the Innisfree Daily UV Mineral Sunscreen SPF 45

Christa Joanna Lee

Why it’s worth it: If you've yet to find a sunscreen that actually makes you excited to apply it to your redness-prone skin, allow us to introduce you to Innisfree’s Daily UV Mineral Sunscreen SPF 45. This 2025 Best of Beauty Award winner has a “subtle green tint that helps neutralize visible redness” while 17% zinc oxide provides broad-spectrum mineral sun protection, says Jane Yoo, MD, a dual board-certified dermatologist based in New York City. And the skin-care benefits don't stop at sun protection and color correction: Eight types of hyaluronic acid team up with squalane to keep skin hydrated and nourished, while soothing cica helps calm irritation. The texture is a touch thicker than you might expect from a Korean sunscreen (which are known for being especially lightweight), but nothing a little more time rubbing in can't fix. Besides, if its redness-neutralizing tint means you can go lighter on the concealer and foundation, we'd say those extra seconds are well spent.

Tester feedback from contributing commerce writer Christa Joanna Lee

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“Between the dryness from rubbing my skin raw with tissues from a recent cold, ongoing redness and discoloration from melasma, and extra sensitivity from upping my tretinoin use, my skin is dealing with a trifecta of redness. I'm already a huge fan of Innisfree's chemical sunscreens, so I was curious to see how its Daily UV Mineral Sunscreen SPF 45 would compare. I'll admit, the zinc oxide takes a beat to rub in, and the texture is definitely a little thicker than what I've come to expect from a K-beauty sunscreen. But I've always found that my sensitive skin seems less prone to sunburn when I use mineral formulas, so I'm willing to spend a few extra seconds blending. I also appreciate that this one helps tone down some of the redness without making my skin look chalky. I wouldn't go so far as to say it magically evens out my complexion enough to skip foundation entirely, but I can definitely get away with a slightly lighter hand when applying makeup afterward.” —Christa Joanna Lee, contributing commerce writer

Tester feedback from Panych

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“My biggest issue with mineral sunscreens is how they can sometimes interfere with my makeup. I was immediately drawn to this formula, not just because as someone with mild rosacea, I love anything that neutralizes redness, but also because when it dries down, it doesn’t leave a greasy film or chalky residue, meaning it doesn’t get in the way or react funny with anything you layer on top of it." —Sophia Panych, content director

More to know

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• Type: mineral
• Key ingredients: 17% zinc oxide, hyaluronic acid, squalane, cica, niacinamide, ceramides
• Tinted: yes (green tinted)
• Water-resistant: no
• Fragrance-free: yes
• Who it’s for: people with redness-prone, dry, and sensitive skin

Best Drugstore: La Roche-Posay Anthelios 50 Mineral Ultra Light Sunscreen

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La Roche-Posay

Anthelios 50 Mineral Ultra Light Sunscreen

$43 $30 (30% off)

Amazon

$43

La Roche-Posay

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

Deanna Pai

Why it's worth it: If you didn’t think a drugstore sunscreen could rival your fanciest, most luxe formulas, you’ve clearly never tried La Roche-Posay’s Anthelios 50 Mineral Ultra Light Sunscreen. The 2024 Best of Beauty winner is so ultra-sheer and fast-absorbing, it practically disappears on contact. “It has a subtle mattifying effect that's perfect to wear under makeup,” says Shari Marchbein, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in New York City.

Beyond the elegant texture, the formula does a lot of skin-care heavy lifting. It’s infused with tocopheryl acetate (vitamin E), a more stable form of the antioxidant that helps neutralize free radicals and support the skin barrier, along with silica to softly blur and control excess shine. And because it’s a La Roche-Posay staple, it also contains the brand’s thermal spring water, known for its soothing, anti-inflammatory properties, which is especially clutch for sensitive or easily reactive skin.

Tester feedback from contributing commerce editor Deanna Pai

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“I don't typically trust untinted mineral sunscreens, since they almost always leave a white cast on my olive skin. Not this one! It's practically perfect: It doesn't have a weird scent, absorbs quickly, and even seems to control the shine on my nose, leaving my very oily T-zone looking more matte, but not flat or one-dimensional. The tube also holds a ton of product, too, so it can last me through a beach trip and then some.” —Deanna Pai, contributing commerce editor

More to know

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• Type: mineral
• Key ingredients: 6% titanium dioxide, 5% zinc oxide, vitamin E, La Roche-Posay thermal spring water
• Tinted: no
• Water-resistant: 40 minutes
• Fragrance-free: yes
• Who it’s for: all skin types

Best for Body: Blue Lizard Sensitive Mineral Sunscreen Lotion SPF 50

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Blue Lizard

Sensitive Mineral Sunscreen Lotion SPF 50

$11 $9 (18% off)

Amazon

$14

Ulta Beauty

Allure senior commerce director Shanna Shipin applying the Blue Lizard Sensitive Mineral Sunscreen Lotion SPF 50

Shanna Shipin

Why it's worth it: Blue Lizard has built its reputation on gentle, no-fuss formulas, and its Sensitive Mineral Sunscreen Lotion SPF 50+ is a perfect example. Zinc oxide and titanium dioxide handle the broad-spectrum sun protection, while soothing aloe and antioxidant vitamin E help keep skin feeling soft and comfortable. It also contains dimethicone, which helps lock in moisture and smooth over dry patches. Its thicker, more substantial texture feels especially comforting on skin from the neck down. "This is one of my favorite sunscreen recommendations for very sensitive and reactive skin types," says Nazanin Saedi, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in East Norriton, Pennsylvania, who points to its fragrance-free formula and mineral UV filters as reasons it’s especially gentle, even for eczema-prone skin.

Tester feedback from senior commerce director Shanna Shipin

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“This sunscreen can be used by everyone in my family: me with my dry skin, my daughters with their eczema-prone skin, and my husband with his extremely oily skin. It smooths over your body like a lotion, with some nice emollients and a ribbony feel‚ not like a typical chalky mineral sunscreen that you have to squeeze out of the bottle and rub into skin. Be warned: It will leave a white cast. That's not something I care about, and honestly, it alerts me to spots I've missed on myself or my kids, but it could be a dealbreaker for some people. Something I haven't loved is their rebrand—it's had no impact on the product performance, of course! But it's a bit stuffy-looking, and I preferred the playful and bright packaging of yore. The sunscreen is so good that I'll simply have to live with it, though!” —Shanna Shipin, senior commerce director

More to know

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• Type: mineral
• Key ingredients: 10% zinc oxide, 8% titanium dioxide, aloe, vitamin E, dimethicone
• Tinted: no
• Water-resistant: 80 minutes
• Fragrance-free: yes
• Who it’s for: everyone

Best for Whole Family: Babo Botanicals Daily Sheer Mineral Sunscreen Fluid SPF 50

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Babo Botanicals

Daily Sheer Mineral Sunscreen Fluid SPF 50

$24

Amazon

$24

Shop

Shipin applying the Babo Botanicals Daily Sheer Mineral Sunscreen Fluid SPF 50

Shanna Shipin

Why it's worth it: Ever wondered why the brand is called Babo? The answer is surprisingly cute: It was the name of the founder’s son’s beloved stuffed bunny—perfectly in line with a line built around gentle, plant-based skin care for the whole family. Babo Botanicals’ Daily Sheer Mineral Sunscreen Fluid SPF 50 packs a hefty 20.6% zinc oxide for reliable, broad-spectrum protection, yet it avoids that telltale chalkiness (even if it does take a minute to fully rub in). You can thank polyhydroxystearic acid—which keeps the zinc evenly dispersed so it glides on in a sheer, fluid layer—along with iron oxides that help subtly neutralize any white cast. For extra-sensitive skin, the formula layers in soothing support with aloe, calendula, and chamomile extracts, plus bisabolol to help calm visible redness—making it a solid option for those dealing with conditions like eczema. A blend of maracuja, raspberry seed, and sunflower oils gives the formula that light, almost serum-like slip—so it glides on easily, wears well under makeup, and feels far more elegant than you’d expect from a high-zinc mineral SPF.

Shipin before applying the Babo Botanicals Daily Sheer Mineral Sunscreen Fluid SPF 50

Shipin after applying the Babo Botanicals Daily Sheer Mineral Sunscreen Fluid SPF 50

Tester feedback from Shipin

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“Love a brand that I can use for myself and on my kids, and Babo Botanicals makes great sensitive-skin-friendly products like this sunscreen that leaves no white cast and wears so comfortably on the skin. I love that the brand created it with all seasons in mind—even though I live in LA and there’s practically only one season here—but the point of that all-seasonality is that it’s comfortable to wear when it’s hot, when it’s cold, when it’s windy, when it’s dry—you get the picture. It leaves no white cast, hydrates my skin, and doesn’t pill under my makeup. Love it!” —Shanna Shipin, senior commerce director

More to know

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• Type: mineral
• Key ingredients: 20.6% zinc oxide, polyhydroxystearic acid, aloe, calendula, chamomile extracts, bisabolol, maracuja oil, raspberry seed oil, sunflower oil
• Tinted: no
• Water-resistant: no
• Fragrance-free: yes
• Who it’s for: everyone, even kids

Best Over Makeup: Colorescience Sunforgettable Total Protection Brush-On Shield SPF 50

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Colorescience

Sunforgettable Total Protection Face Shield Flex SPF 50

$58

Amazon

$58

Nordstrom

$58

Dermstore

Why it's worth it: Let's be honest: Many of us aren't reapplying sunscreen every two hours, especially when we’re wearing makeup. If you don’t want to add a layer of lotion over your foundation—understandable—why not brush on your SPF instead? Colorescience’s Sunforgettable Total Protection Brush-On Shield SPF 50 packs 22.5% zinc oxide and 22.5% titanium dioxide into a convenient, portable brush, making touch-ups as easy as a quick dusting of setting powder. "This is my go-to sunscreen for reapplication during the day—it's always in my bag," says Dr. Saedi. The powder also helps absorb excess shine, which is handy for oily skin types, while hyaluronic acid and antioxidants like green tea extract provide additional skin-care benefits. Just be sure to apply it generously and evenly to get the labeled SPF 50 protection.

More to know

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• Type: mineral
• Key ingredients: 22.5% zinc oxide, 22.5% titanium dioxide, hyaluronic acid, grape seed extract, green tea extract, antioxidants (green tea extract, grape seed extract, sunflower sprout extract)
• Tinted: yes (4 shades)
• Water-resistant: 80 minutes
• Fragrance-free: yes
• Who it’s for: everyone, especially oily skin and people looking to easily reapply over makeup

Best for Eczema: Vanicream Facial Moisturizer with SPF 30

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Vanicream

Facial Moisturizer with SPF 30

$15 $14 (7% off)

Amazon

$20

Ulta Beauty

Why it's worth it: Dye-free, fragrance-free, lanolin-free, and grease-free, yet packed with everything your sensitive skin actually needs. Vanicream Facial Moisturizer SPF 30 pulls double duty as both sunscreen and daily moisturizer, so you can skip a separate hydrator without feeling deprived. It blends in easily, making it an effortless one-and-done step under makeup or on bare skin. “It’s non-comedogenic, so it’s safer for acne-prone skin to avoid clogged pores and breakouts, plus ceramides help keep your complexion hydrated,” says Gloria Lin, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in New York City. The addition of glycerin in this drugstore SPF keeps your skin feeling soft and comfy without a greasy feel.

More to know

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• Type: mineral
• Key ingredients: 19.5% zinc oxide, ceramides, glycerin
• Tinted: yes (universal tint)
• Water-resistant: not disclosed
• Fragrance-free: yes
• Who it’s for: people with eczema or dry skin

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I benefit from sunscreen for sensitive skin?

As we mentioned, people with sensitive skin can find it challenging to find a sunscreen that won't irritate them because of common irritants in chemical sun blockers. If that sounds like you, try a gentler mineral sunscreen.

Even if you're not sensitive to every chemical in a chemical sunscreen, figuring out what makes your skin reactive is complicated. "Even if you identify which [kind of] product it is, you don't know which chemical it is [because] formulas typically contain up to four [photoprotective chemicals]," says board-certified dermatologist Corey L. Hartman, MD, based in Birmingham, Alabama. Thus, a mineral sunscreen with no chemicals rids you of the root issue.

Another consideration is "to avoid mineral sunscreens that have parabens, phthalates, and added fragrances, as these can cause irritation, redness, and inflammation of the skin," Dr. Lamm notes. The lesson: Always read the ingredient list, especially as some sunscreens are hybrid formulas and contain physical and chemical UV filters.

What's the difference between a chemical and a mineral sunscreen?

Physical sunscreens (a.k.a. mineral) work by reflecting the UV rays off the skin. Conversely, Dr. Lamm explains that chemical-filter sun protection products work by absorbing the sun's rays that hit your skin rather than bouncing them off.

Mineral-based products utilize, well, mineral filters like zinc oxide and titanium dioxide, which are usually gentler than chemical options. "Mineral sunscreens also typically do not irritate the eyes like chemical sunscreens," he says. Plus, they're photostable, so they don't need to be applied as regularly as chemical sunscreens, according to New York City-based, board-certified dermatologist Hadley King, MD.

That's not to say people with sensitive skin can never use chemical sunscreen—it just may involve more trial and error to discern which (if any) ingredients spur adverse reactions. More important than anything, though, is to use any sunscreen—period. "My recommendation is to find a sunscreen you love, chemical or physical, and use it every single day," says Muneeb Shah, MD, a Wilmington, North Carolina-based, board-certified dermatologist. "Whichever sunscreen you love, as long as the SPF is [at least] 30, is the sunscreen for you."

Meet the experts

• Kristina Collins, MD, a double board-certified dermatologist based in Austin
• Corey L. Hartman, MD, board-certified dermatologist and founder of Skin Wellness Dermatology based in Birmingham, Alabama
• Hadley King, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in New York City
• Shari Marchbein, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in New York City
• Nazanin Saedi, MD, a board-certified dermatologist at Plymouth Meeting Dermatology based in East Norriton, Pennsylvania
• Muneeb Shah, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in Wilmington, North Carolina
• Jane Yoo, MD, a dual board-certified dermatologist and Mohs surgeon 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 sunscreens for sensitive skin, we considered each product’s performance across five primary categories: product ingredients and efficacy, packaging, protection, texture, and product wear. Every product was determined to have excelled in each category by our editorial team, which is composed of in-house writers and editors as well as contributors — along with special consideration from dermatologists. To learn more information on our reporting and testing processes, read our complete reviews process and methodology page.

Our staff and testers

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

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

Collage: Jemeria Davison; Source images: Courtesy of brandsSave StorySave this storySave StorySave this story

There’s something especially satisfying about unwrapping a makeup gift set and realizing you actually want to use everything inside. The best makeup gift sets go beyond tossing a few lipsticks and eyeshadows into a pretty box, bringing together curated products that work just as well together in a routine as they do on their own. Whether you’re shopping for a beauty maximalist or someone who swears by a five-minute face, there’s a set with their name on it—and some even feature Best of Beauty Award winners and longtime editor favorites.) From mini makeup essentials to splurge-worthy collections, these are the sets we’d happily gift… or keep for ourselves.

Our Top Makeup Gift Sets

• Love at First Swipe: Merit x Erdem The Winter 2026 Set, $68
• Bisou, Bisous: Violette_FR Bouche Duo Bêtise Edition, $43
• A Rosy Outlook: YSL Iconic Pink Lip Gloss & Blush Gift Set, $65
• Oh, Honey Honey: Clinique 6 Piece Black Honey Deluxe Makeup Holiday Gift Set, $99

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• How we test and review products
• Our staff and testers

Love at First Swipe: Merit x Erdem The Winter 2026 Set

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Merit

The Winter 2026 Set

$68

Sephora

Allure commerce editor Sarah Han applying the Merit Flush Balm

Sarah Han

Why it's worth it: In the time it takes you to read this story, you could probably pull together a complete makeup look with the Merit x Erdem Eye and Cheek Gift Set. It's no secret we're huge fans of Merit's minimalist approach to makeup, and this limited-edition collaboration with London fashion house Erdem gives the brand's signature five-minute routine a romantic makeover.

Inspired by Erdem's dreamy, feminine aesthetic, the four-piece collection is all about delicate washes of color and a lit-from-within glow. You'll find two exclusive new shades—Day Glow Highlighting Balm in Tulle (a rose-bronze) and a mini Flush Balm in Carnation (a warm pink)—alongside Solo Shadow Sheen in Mink (a shimmery brown-gray) and a mini Clean Lash Mascara. Best of all, the silky cheek and eye formulas blend easily with your fingertips, making application even more effortless.

Tester feedback on the Merit Flush Balm from commerce editor Sarah Han

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“TOO. CUTE. Amirite? Merit's pocket-purse-whatever-friendly Flush Balms are so easy to use because you can use your fingers to blend and diffuse them (hi, foolproof!) in, but I like picking up the pigment using a fluffy, dense brush for more color payoff. Speaking of color, the shade range is just chef's kiss. No matter which shade you choose, you get a satin, flushed-from-within finish that makes your cheeks look scrumptious. I honestly forgot how easy these are to use, so I'm looking to play with Le Bonbon (a bright pink) and Rouge (a sheer red) next.” —Sarah Han, commerce editor

What it includes

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• Mini Flush Balm in Carnation
• Solo Shadow Sheen in Mink
• Day Glow Highlighting Balm in Tulle
• Clean Volume Mascara in Black

Bisou, Bisous: Violette_FR Bouche Duo Bêtise Edition

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Violette_FR

Bouche Duo Bêtise Edition

$43

Shop

$43

Sephora

Why it's worth it: Choosing a lip color for someone can feel almost as personal as picking out a fragrance, but it's hard to go wrong with Violette_FR's bestselling Bêtise, a warm, rosy-berry shade that gives lips a naturally flushed, just-bitten look. The Bouche Duo Bêtise Edition celebrates the fan-favorite color in two very different finishes. Bisou Balm is a moisturizing lipstick-balm hybrid that delivers a sheer color with a soft-focus, blurred matte finish. For something bolder, the two-time Best of Beauty Award-winning Lip Nectar combines the hydration and shine of a lip oil with the richer, buildable pigment of a stain. Either way, your giftee will get that effortless French-girl lip down.

Allure managing editor Alessandra Foresto applying the Violette_FR Lip Nectar

Alessandra Foresto

Allure commerce market editor Sarah Hoffmann applying the Violette_FR Bisou Balm

Sarah Hoffmann

Tester feedback on the Violete_FR Lip Nectar from managing editor Alessandra Foresto

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"I love the staying power of lip stains (you try finding time to reapply your lip color when you're running from meeting to meeting), but I absolutely hate dry lips. This is by far the most moisturizing lip stain I've ever tried that doesn't fade away in 0.2 seconds. It actually stays shiny, like a gloss but better, for hours on end and doesn't dry matte or flaky like other lip stains sometimes do. Even as it fades, it leaves behind a nice, soft, shiny wash of color. The photo above was taken after breakfast, an iced coffee, and sushi! I love the color range as well: My favorites are Amarante Noire, Souci d’Automne and Bêtise." —Alessandra Foresto, managing editor

Tester feedback on the Violette_FR Bisou Balm from commerce market editor Sarah Hoffmann

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"To some extent, I think this is the lip product I've been looking for for my entire life. It is far and away the easiest method of achieving the French blurred lip look I've ever found, and for that reason, it will simply never leave my purse again. I like to get really haphazard with the application—the messier you are, the prettier it looks, I swear—so the pigment in the center and the balm on the outside really get mixed together on my lips." —Sarah Hoffmann, commerce market editor

What it includes

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• Bisou Balm in Bêtise
• Lip Nectar in Bêtise

Lash Masterclass: Chanel Expert Eyes Set

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Chanel

Expert Eyes Set

$129

Nordstrom

$129

Ulta Beauty

Han applying the Chanel Le Volume de Chanel Mascara

Sarah Han

Why it’s worth it: Some days, eyeliner and mascara are all you have the time (or energy) for. Chanel's Expert Eyes Makeup Set covers both, with three eye-makeup staples: Stylo Yeux Waterproof Eyeliner in Espresso, a deep brown pencil that glides on smoothly and resists smudging; La Base Mascara, a conditioning primer that helps prep lashes; and Le Volume de Chanel Mascara in Noir, which adds volume and definition in just a few swipes. We also always look forward to seeing what limited-edition makeup pouch Chanel comes out with each holiday season, and this year's chic, all-white, knit-style version is one they'll want to keep long after the makeup runs out.

Tester feedback on the Chanel Le Volume de Chanel Mascara from Han

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"My itty-bitty lashes always need ample help, and Chanel Le Volume delivers noticeable volume from the very first swipe—and, importantly, doesn't make my lashes look overly spidery.” —Sarah Han, commerce editor

What it includes

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• Stylo Yeux Waterproof Eyeliner in Espresso
• La Base Mascara
• Le Volume de Chanel Mascara in Noir

Sweet or Spicy?: Patrick Ta Major Headlines Double-Take Duo

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Patrick Ta

Major Headlines Double-Take Crème & Powder Blush Duo & Lip Balm Makeup Gift Set

$65 $52 (20% off)

Shop

$52

Sephora

Lee applying the Patrick Ta Major Headlines Double-Take Crème & Powder Blush Duo & Lip Balm Makeup Gift Set

Christa Joanna Lee

Why it's worth it: The change in seasons has a way of zapping the life out of our skin, but makeup artist Patrick Ta knows a thing or two about bringing back that fresh, healthy-looking glow. His limited-edition Major Headlines Double-Take Duo & Lip Balm comes in two holiday-inspired pairings: Something Sweet blush palette with Vanilla Chai lip balm, both in soft rosy pink, or Something Spicy blush palette with Gingerbread Latte lip balm for a warmer, spicier take. The blush palettes pair a dewy cream with a matte powder that can be worn separately or layered to add depth and dimension to cheeks, while the lip balms deliver a sheer tint, glossy finish, and a nourishing feel, thanks to plumping peptides and smoothing bakuchiol.

Tester feedback from contributing commerce writer Christa Joanna Lee

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“Ooh, I think I just found my most flattering pink blush ever? My skin is naturally redness-prone, so a lot of blush shades end up making me look like I'm having some sort of allergic reaction. But this mauve-y pink is seriously one of the prettiest shades I've ever tried. I love layering the cream and powder formulas together because it gives my cheeks a little more dimension. I'm not usually much of a lip girlie, but the matching gloss is such a perfect color match that it makes pulling together a coordinated look so easy. It's a tad on the thicker side, which I appreciate now that the weather's getting cooler and my lips are perpetually dry and chapped.” —Christa Joanna Lee, contributing commerce writer

What it includes

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• Major Headlines Double-Take Crème & Powder Blush
• Major Moisture Smoothing Lip Balm

A Rosy Outlook: YSL Iconic Pink Lip Gloss & Blush Gift Set

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YSL

Iconic Pink Lip Gloss & Blush Gift Set

$65

Sephora

Allure contributing commerce writer Christa Joanna Lee applying the YSL Make Me Blush Bold Blurring Powder Blush

Christa Joanna Lee

Why it's worth it: With packaging this pretty, YSL's Iconic Pink Lip Gloss & Blush Gift Set is meant to be shown off and used every day. Inside, you'll find two perfectly coordinated pinks to take the guesswork out of putting together a polished makeup look: Make Me Blush in 44 Nude Lavallière and the matching Loveshine Lip Oil Stick. The blush comes in a sleek compact modeled after the fashion house's signature clutches, and its silky, highly pigmented formula blends easily (though our tester notes that a little goes a long way). Meanwhile, the lipstick-oil hybrid is infused with nourishing botanical oils for a smooth glide, creamy shine, and lasting hydration.

Tester feedback on YSL Make Me Blush from Lee

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"I'm wearing a different shade here (93 Restless Rose) than the one included in this set, but the formula is what really stands out. It's incredibly silky and super pigmented, so a little goes a long way. It blends out so easily though that you don't have to worry about going overboard." —Christa Joanna Lee, contributing commerce writer

What it includes

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• Make Me Blush Powder Blush in 44 Nude Lavalliere
• Loveshine Plumping Lip Oil Gloss in 44 Nude Lavalliere

Small But Mighty: Westman Atelier Petite Party

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Westman Atelier

Petite Party

$75

Nordstrom

$75

Sephora

$75

Shop

Allure senior director of commerce audience & analytics Lexi Herrick applying the Westman Atelier Lit Up Highlight Stick

Lexi Herrick

Why it's worth it: Celebrity makeup artist Gucci Westman is known for creating gorgeous, natural-looking makeup on some of Hollywood's biggest stars (Jennifer Aniston and Reese Witherspoon, anyone?), and her brand's Petite Party set brings a little of that red-carpet magic to your giftee’s makeup bag. This limited-edition collection includes four minis: Baby Cheeks Blush Stick in Poppy, a bright cherry shade that gives cheeks a healthy flush; Lit Up Highlight Stick in Toast, a shimmery rosy-brown that adds an eye-catching glow; Eye Love You Eye Pencil in Cendre, a soft charcoal gray for defining eyes; and Eye Want You Mascara for fuller, longer-looking lashes. It's basically everything they’ll need to get party-ready in minutes, whether they’re going all out or keeping things simple.

Tester feedback on the Westman Atelier Lit Up Highlight Stick from senior director of commerce audience & analytics Lexi Herrick

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“The Lit Up stick is so convenient for a quick swipe of highlighter. It lifts the appearance of my cheekbones and smile and adds the perfect amount of dimension to my makeup throughout the day." —Lexi Herrick, senior director of commerce audience & analytics

What it includes

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• Baby Cheeks Blush Stick in Poppy
• Lit Up Highlight Stick in Toast
• Eye Love You Eye Pencil in Cendre
• Eye Want You Mascara

Oh, Honey Honey: Clinique 6 Piece Black Honey Deluxe Makeup Holiday Gift Set

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Clinique

6 Piece Black Honey Deluxe Makeup Holiday Gift Set

$99

Ulta Beauty

Allure managing editor Alessandra Foresto applying the Clinique Almost Lipstick in Black Honey

Alessandra Foresto

Why it's worth it: When we think of makeup shades that have earned a spot in the beauty hall of fame, Clinique's Black Honey is one of the first that comes to mind. The sheer, berry-brown shade has been an editor favorite for decades, and the brand's 6-Piece Black Honey Deluxe Makeup Holiday Gift Set gives fans six ways to wear it. The All About Shadow Octet Eye Shadow Palette features eight wearable shades, ranging from soft neutrals to rich, earthy tones, inspired by Black Honey, Pink Honey, and Nude Honey. There’s also High Impact Mascara and High Impact Gel Tech Eyeliner—both in Black Honey— adding a softer, brown-ish alternative to your usual black eye makeup. For lips, there's the original Almost Lipstick, a balmy, no-mirror-needed formula that enhances your natural lip color, plus a matching Quickliner Lip Liner for added definition. And because there's apparently no such thing as too much Black Honey, the set also includes Pop Lip + Cheek Oil, a two-in-one formula that gives lips and cheeks a dewy tint.

Tester feedback on the Clinique Almost Lipstick in Black Honey from Foresto

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“I'm fully part of the Clinique's Black Honey cult. Because the formula is super hydrating and glossy, I reach for it when my lips are feeling dry from a few too many days wearing lip stains or matte lipsticks. The color is truly flattering—the brand says it looks different on everyone; it looks like a true berry on me—and the pigment is sheer but buildable. It's definitely not super long-lasting. It will make it through a cup of coffee, but be ready to reapply often. I have gone through so many tubes, I wouldn't even be able to approximate the count! The one I have now is down to the very bottom.” —Alessandra Foresto, managing editor

What it includes

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• All About Shadow Octet Eye Shadow Palette
• High Impact Mascara in Black Honey
• Almost Lipstick in Black Honey
• Pop Lip + Cheek Oil in Black Honey
• Quickliner for Lips Lip Liner in Black Honey
• High Impact Gel Tech Eyeliner in Black Honey

Something to Talk About: Charlotte Tilbury Pillow Talk Iconic Lip & Cheek Set

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Charlotte Tilbury

Pillow Talk Iconic Lip & Cheek Set

$36

Nordstrom

$36

Ulta Beauty

Herrick applying the Charlotte Tilbury Matte Revolution Lipstick in Pillow Talk

Lexi Herrick

Why it's worth it: Speaking of shades that have stood the test of time, Charlotte Tilbury's Pillow Talk is high on the list. The universally flattering pink-nude has practically become a beauty empire, and the Pillow Talk Iconic Lip & Cheek Set brings together three of its biggest hits in one gift-ready package. Inside are travel-size versions of Matte Revolution Lipstick for creamy, long-lasting color; Lip Cheat Lip Liner for defining and creating the illusion of fuller lips; and Beauty Light Wand, a liquid highlighter-blush hybrid that gives cheeks a dewy, rosy flush. The set also comes in Pillow Talk Medium, a deeper, warmer berry-pink take on the original.

Tester feedback on the Charlotte Tilbury Matte Revolution Lipstick in Pillow Talk from Herrick

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"Pillow Talk is easily one of my all-time favorite nude lipsticks. It's a very versatile shade that looks amazing on so many people. I especially like the creamy application and the warm, gentle way it highlights my features." —Lexi Herrick, senior director of audience development

What it includes

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• Matte Revolution Lipstick
• Lip Cheat Lip Liner
• Beauty Light Wand

Bold Moves: Carolina Herrera Good Girl Eye & Lip Set

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Carolina Herrera

Good Girl Eye & Lip Set

$95

Nordstrom

Lee applying the Carolina Herrera Fabulous Eyes Liquid Eyeliner and Fabulous Eyes Smudgeproof Mascara

Christa Joanna Lee

Why it's worth it: When it comes to making a statement with makeup, a bold eye and lip combo will never go out of style. Fashion designer Carolina Herrera knows a thing or two about timeless glamour, and its Good Girl Eye & Lip Gift Set brings together three makeup essentials for getting the look. The set’s Fabulous Eyes Liquid Eyeliner makes it easy to draw sharp, precise lines that won’t budge, while Fabulous Eyes Smudgeproof Mascara gives lashes fullness and definition without smearing. The finishing touch? Good Girl Gloss in 996 Luxe Plum, which looks more violet in the tube but transforms into a more berry-toned shade on lips. It's also infused with hyaluronic acid and peppermint for fuller-looking lips and lasting hydration.

Tester feedback on the Carolina Herrera Fabulous Eyes Liquid Eyeliner and Fabulous Eyes Smudgeproof Mascara from Lee

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“I have monolids and short, stubby lashes, so suffice it to say I'm pretty picky about my eye makeup. I tend to draw a slightly thicker line so it actually shows up when my eyes are open, and this liquid liner is great for that. It goes on smoothly and, most importantly, doesn't smudge all over my lids. As for the mascara, my little lashes absolutely love the big, fluffy brush. Those stiff, plastic wands never seem to grab my tiny lash hairs quite right, but this one catches almost all of them in a single swipe. The plush bristles also do a great job of separating them, so I get fuller-looking lashes without clumps.” —Christa Joanna Lee, contributing commerce writer

What it includes

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• Fabulous Eyes Liquid Eyeliner in Extreme Black
• Fabulous Eyes Smudgeproof Mascara
• Good Girl Gloss in 996 Luxe Plum

Calling Dibs: Dibs Beauty 12 Days of Dibs

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DIBS Beauty

12 Days of Dibs

$184

Ulta Beauty

Allure beauty director Sarah Kinonen applying the Dibs Beauty No Pressure Lip Liner

Sarah Kinonen

Why it's worth it: Technically, Dibs Beauty's 12 Days of Dibs is an advent calendar, but we seriously doubt your giftee will have the patience to wait nearly two weeks to unwrap everything inside. Known for its easy-to-use, multitasking makeup sticks and buttery complexion duos, Dibs has packed this 12-piece set with mini versions of its biggest hits, plus a few full-size surprises. Highlights include two shades of the bestselling Desert Island Duo, which pairs cream blush and bronzer in one convenient stick; the GlowTour Duo for extra radiance; and the Jam Jam Lip in Blueberry Ice (an icy-blue balm that goes on clear for a glossy finish). The set also includes practical extras, including the LoveBeam Setting Spray, a dual-ended cheek brush, and a brush-cleaning mitt and dry shampoo spray to keep makeup tools fresh.

Tester feedback on the Dibs Beauty No Pressure Lip Liner from beauty director Sarah Kinonen

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“Super creamy, glides on smoothly, and leaves behind the prettiest color. The Dibs Beauty No Pressure Lip Liner hits all of the above without dragging, smudging, or transferring—a true feat in the world of lip liners! And although it only comes in six shades (they absolutely should expand the range), I like to toggle between two perfect neutrals: XOXO (rosy pink) and Girl Talk (nude pink). I like to use these to trace the outline of my lips and then fill in with a hydrating lip balm, but lately I’ve been wearing them solo and loving the semi-matte look!” —Sarah Kinonen, beauty director

What it includes

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• Mini Desert Island Duos in Shades 2 and 5.5
• Mini GlowTour Duo in Starlit
• Mini Double Standard Primer & Mascara Duo
• Mini LoveBeam Setting Spray
• Brush Cleaner Mitt
• Brush Dry Shampoo Cleaner
• Jam Jam Lip in Shade Blueberry Ice
• Duo Brush Cheek
• Status Stick in Shade High Road Highlight
• No Pressure Lip Liner in Debrief
• Go To Glossy Balm in Kiss Me Quick

Pretty in Pink: Dior Addict & Diorshow Volume & Glow Makeup Set

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Dior

Addict & Diorshow Volume & Glow Makeup Set

$119

Nordstrom

$119

Ulta Beauty

Allure editorial assistant Jennet Jusu applying the Dior Addict Lip Glow Oil

Jennet Jusu

Why it's worth it: Anti-blush trend, who? Dior's Addict & Diorshow Volume & Glow Makeup Set makes a convincing case for keeping rosy cheeks (and lips) in your makeup routine. This limited-edition holiday trio includes Rosy Glow Blush in 001 Pink, which uses the brand's Color Reviver technology to create a personalized flush based on your skin's moisture levels; Dior Addict Lip Glow Oil in 001 Pink for a nourishing, glossy wash of color; and the 2025 Best of Beauty Award-winning Diorshow Overvolume Mascara for dramatic, fanned-out lashes. Everything comes tucked inside a shimmery Dior makeup pouch—which is practically worth the splurge on its own, given how much use they’ll get out of it.

Tester feedback from editorial assistant Jennet Jusu

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“For my lip products, I stick to the rivers and lakes I’m used to: clear, sticky, and long-lasting. So, although I have a few of my favorites, I was pleasantly surprised to give Dior its props. The smoothness was too good. I use it with my no-makeup-makeup looks or a casual beat when I want to step up from my usual clear gloss. So, I have to admit it: It’s worth the splurge.” —Jennet Jusu, editorial assistant

What it includes

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• Addict Lip Glow Oil in 001 Pink
• Diorshow Overvolume Mascara in 090 Black
• Rosy Glow Blush in 001 Pink

Bordeaux, Baby: Victoria Beckham Eye Wardrobe Collection

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Victoria Beckham

Eye Wardrobe Collection

$163

Nordstrom

$163

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Why it's worth it: Burgundy makeup is everywhere this season, and we're here for it, since the rich, wine-inspired shade gives eyes that smoky, sultry look without feeling quite as intense as black. Victoria Beckham Beauty's Eye Wardrobe Collection in Bordeaux gets your giftee in on the trend with a four-piece set that includes the Eye Wardrobe eyeshadow palette in a refillable compact, along with two versions of the brand's beloved Satin Kajal Liner: a rich matte burgundy for smudgy definition and the new, set-exclusive Bordeaux Pavé, flecked with gold and ruby sparkle for when they want a little extra drama. A black Vast Lash mascara adds the finishing touch with fuller, more voluminous-looking lashes. The whole lineup comes dressed up in special holiday packaging, too, so you can cross gift wrapping off your to-do list.

What it includes

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• Eye Wardrobe in Bordeaux
• Satin Kajal Liner in Bordeaux
• Satin Kajal Jewel Liner in Bordeaux Pavé
• Vast Lash in Black

All Roads Lead to Glow: Jones Road The Bobbi Kit 6.0

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Jones Road

The Bobbi Kit 6.0

$88

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Why it's worth it: Five sold-out editions later, now we know we have to snag Jones Road's The Bobbi Kit before it disappears. Now in its sixth iteration, this year’s set brings together everything you need for a full face of makeup—all handpicked by the founder (makeup artist Bobbi Brown) herself. The lineup includes the new Silky Highlighting Powder, a four-shade compact complete with a brush for sweeping a glow onto cheeks and lids; The Lip Crayon, a lipstick-liner hybrid with a comfortable satin finish; the fan-favorite Mini Miracle Balm in your choice of Joy (a deep berry) or Bare (a rosy mauve); and The Statement Mascara in your choice of either classic Pitch Black or the new Rich Brown. And in a major upgrade from the brand's signature Tyvek bags, everything comes tucked inside a sophisticated vegan-leather roll-top clutch with plenty of extra room for their other beauty essentials.

What it includes

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• Silky Highlighting Powder in Barely Pink
• The Lip Crayon in Me
• Mini Miracle Balm in Bare or Joy
• The Statement Mascara in Pitch Black or Rich Brown
• The Highlight Brush

Brushing Up: MAC Finishing Touch Brush Kit

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MAC

Finishing Touch Brush Kit

$79

Nordstrom

Why it's worth it: You know how a brand-new hoodie never feels quite as soft after its first wash? The same goes for makeup brushes—even if you're diligent about cleaning them, there's something especially satisfying about dipping a fresh, fluffy brush into your favorite face powder. MAC's limited-edition Finishing Touch Brush Kit makes a great gift for anyone whose brush collection could use a refresh (which, let's be honest, is probably most of us). The three-piece set includes the 168S Large Angled Contour Brush, which hugs the curves of your face for seamless blush, bronzer, and highlighter application; the 239S Eye Shader Brush for packing on eyeshadow; and the 217S Blending Brush for diffusing harsh lines. And to really seal your status as a stocking-stuffing pro, the brushes come with sparkly handles and a matching glittery makeup bag that make the set feel extra festive.

What it includes

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• 168S Large Angled Contour Brush
• 239S Eye Shader Brush
• 217S Blending Brush

Frequently Asked Questions

How we test and review products

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

For our list of the best makeup gift sets, we considered each product's performance across five primary categories: product ingredients and efficacy, packaging, fragrance, texture, and product wear. Every product was determined to have excelled in each category by our editorial team, which is composed of in-house writers and editors as well as contributors—along with special consideration from board-certified derms and K-beauty experts. To learn more information on our reporting and testing processes, read our complete reviews process and methodology page.

Our staff and testers

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

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

Collage: Jemeria Davison; Source images: Courtesy of brands and editorsSave StorySave this storySave StorySave this story

The best red lipsticks have a reputation for being high-maintenance, but the right one is as easy to wear as any other color in your makeup bag. And these days, you’ve got options: Some love a high-coverage lipstick—in case you haven’t heard, bold is back—while others want a sheer wash of color. Not only do the finishes, formulas, and payoff vary, but so do the shades. One tip? Choose your red lipstick like you’d pick an outfit. Fiery orange-reds feel warm and playful. Cool blue-reds look sharp and polished, and they can even make your teeth look whiter. A bright, classic red works well for brunch or the office, while deeper brick or wine shades feel moodier and are perfect for evenings. If a bold matte feels like too much, try a sheer balm or a glossy formula for an extra pop.

Our Top Red Lipsticks

• Best Overall: MAC Silky Matte 12HR Wear Lipstick in Ruby Woo, $25
• Best Buildable: M.ph Lip Ciggy Sheer Lipstick Balm in Lose My Breath, $26
• Best Cream Lipstick: Dear Dahlia Lip Paradise Sensual Lip Glow in Chloe, $32
• Best Drugstore: Maybelline New York Serum Lipstick in Wild Card, $10
• Best Cool-Tone Red: Maed Signature Lip Pigment Matte Liquid Lipstick in Ritual Red, $36
• Best Blurring: Hung Vanngo Creamy Matte Longwear Lipstick in New York Red, $29
• Best Luminous Matte: Charlotte Tilbury Matte Revolution Hydrating Lipstick in Hollywood Vixen, $37
• Best Range of Reds: Poundcake Cake Batter Liquid Lipstick in Red Velvet, $24

Frequently Asked QuestionsAccordionItemContainerButtonLargeChevron

• How do I choose the best red lipstick for my skin tone?
• How do you make red lipstick last?
• Is there a red lipstick that looks good on everyone?
• Meet the experts
• How we test and review products
• Our staff and testers

To help you find your match, our editors and makeup artist experts tested reds in every finish, from sheer balms to longwear liquids, and these are the ones that earned a permanent spot in our makeup bags

Best Overall: MAC Silky Matte 12HR Wear Lipstick in Ruby Woo

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MAC

Silky Matte 12HR Wear Lipstick

$25

Nordstrom

$25

Ulta Beauty

$25

Sephora

Allure creative director Amber Venerable applying the MAC Silky Matte 12HR Wear Lipstick in Ruby Woo

Amber Venerable

Why we love it: Plenty of MAC shades have cult followings, but Ruby Woo is a household name at this point. Countless brands have tried to duplicate it, but this blue-red lipstick has long reigned as the industry's gold standard—and a repeat Allure Best of Beauty and Readers’ Choice Award winner. Marking MAC’s 40th anniversary, the updated Macximal Silky Matte 12HR Wear Lipstick keeps the beloved shade, which universally flatters skin and brightens smiles, but upgrades the formula to one that’s more comfortable. It uses coconut oil, organic shea butter, and organic cocoa butter to keep lips soft. The payoff remains full-coverage in a single swipe, setting to a silky, velvety matte finish.

Venerable before applying the MAC Silky Matte 12HR Wear Lipstick in Ruby Woo

Amber Venerable

Venerable after applying the MAC Silky Matte 12HR Wear Lipstick in Ruby Woo

Amber Venerable

Tester feedback from creative director Amber Venerable

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More to know

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• Key ingredients: coconut oil, organic shea butter, organic cocoa butter
• Finish: silky matte
• Available red shades: 5 (Ruby Woo, Russian Red, Lady Danger, Diva, Sin)

Best Buildable: M.ph Lip Ciggy Sheer Lipstick Balm in Lose My Breath

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m.ph by Mary Phillips

Lip Ciggy Sheer Lipstick Balm

$26

Shop

$26

Sephora

Allure social director Kassidy Silva applying the M.ph Lip Ciggy Sheer Lipstick Balm

Kassidy Silva

Why we love it: Not everyone wants to commit to a full-wattage red. If that’s the case, the M.ph Lip Ciggy Sheer Lipstick Balm is an easygoing, beginner-friendly option. It offers a sheer, shiny wash of color like a lip balm that builds with each swipe, or you can dab it on for a flushed-lip effect. Along with the color, the formula includes hyaluronic acid, which helps lips hold moisture so they look plumper, and squalane keeps them soft and supple. The texture is slick and smooth, feeling more like a balm than a typical lipstick. Plus, its compact design makes it ideal for on-the-go touch-ups.

Silva before applying the M.ph Lip Ciggy Sheer Lipstick Balm

Kassidy Silva

Silva after applying the M.ph Lip Ciggy Sheer Lipstick Balm

Kassidy Silva

Tester feedback from social director Kassidy Silva

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More to know

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• Key ingredients: squalane, hyaluronic acid
• Finish: high shine
• Available red shades: 3 (Siren, Lose My Breath, and Cherry Pie)

Best Glossy Finish: Dear Dahlia Lip Paradise Sensual Lip Glow in Chloe

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Dear Dahlia

Lip Paradise Sensual Lip Glow

$32

Amazon

$36

Nordstrom

Allure managing editor Alessandra Foresto applying the Dear Dahlia Lip Paradise Sensual Lip Glow in Chloe

Alessandra Foresto

Why we love it: Shiny, juicy, and light-catching are all ways to describe the Dear Dahlia Lip Paradise Sensual Lip Glow, which is why it's no surprise it won a 2026 Allure Best of Beauty Award. The lipstick glides on in a glossy, sheer layer and stays comfortable thanks to shea butter and plant-based moisturizing oils like sunflower, castor, jojoba, sweet almond, and argan; together, they cushion lips and smooth the look of fine lines. The formula includes the brand's patented Dahlia variabilis flower extract, which is known for its antioxidant benefits. The red in the line is Chloe, a glossy reddish-orange that brightens lips with a buildable wash of color.

Foresto before applying the Dear Dahlia Lip Paradise Sensual Lip Glow in Chloe

Alessandra Foresto

Foresto after applying the Dear Dahlia Lip Paradise Sensual Lip Glow in Chloe

Alessandra Foresto

Tester feedback from managing editor Alessandra Foresto

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“I was a big fan of the early 2000s matte red lipstick crayon, but as I've gotten older, my lips just need more hydration than those formulas can offer. I've now officially called off my search for a true red lipstick that doesn't make my lips flaky and cracked by the end of the day. This sheer and glossy formula is just what I was looking for. The color is pretty buildable, so I find myself reapplying like I would a lip balm because it feels so comfy and hydrating. But it still lasts through coffee and a non-messy desk meal!” —Alessandra Foresto, managing editor

More to know

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• Key ingredients: Dahlia variabilis flower extract, shea butter, argan oil, sweet almond oil
• Finish: glossy
• Available red shades: 1 (Chloe)

Best Drugstore: Maybelline New York Serum Lipstick in Wild Card

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Maybelline New York

Serum Lipstick

$10 $5 (50% off)

Amazon

$10

Ulta Beauty

Why we love it: Maybelline has never needed a high price tag to compete, and the Maybelline New York Serum Lipstick proves that yet again with a 2026 Allure Best of Beauty Award. This lipstick blends hyaluronic acid with marula, moringa, avocado, soybean, sunflower, and jojoba oils to keep your lips moisturized and soft. In practice, it glides on like a balm but lays down rich, opaque color. The satin shades are the standouts, wearing comfortably and fading gracefully throughout the day, even after a meal. The line features three distinct reds: Open Late, a cool berry-red with a matte finish; Wild Card, a bright, classic matte red; and Blind Date, a deep brick-tone red with a satin finish.

Allure content director Sophie Panych applying the Maybelline New York Serum Lipstick

Sophie Panych

Panych after applying the Maybelline New York Serum Lipstick

Sophie Panych

Tester feedback from content director Sophia Panych

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“The Maybelline Moisturizing Serum Lipstick in Wild Card formula looks and feels like a lipstick five times the price (and with today's wild luxury beauty market, probably even eight times the price). It glides on fully opaque in just one swipe—there's no need to add layer upon layer to achieve full coverage, and it's great for overlining—without feeling suffocating on your lips. In fact, the formula is ridiculously comfortable to wear; it feels as comfortable and hydrating as a tinted balm, but with the added creamy, velvety feeling you get from the pigment. I like the shade Wild Card because it reminds me of some classic matte red hues from pricier brands. The brand describes it as a mid-tone red, but on me it looks more blue-based than orange-based, which I prefer as it's more complementary to my neutral undertones. The only thing I'll say is it's not indelible (the brand promises eight-hour wear). It will leave a mark on your wine glass or water bottle, and it will move around if you're not careful while eating, which is not really that surprising from a traditional-style lipstick like this.” —Sophia Panych, content director

More to know

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• Key ingredients: hyaluronic acid, marula oil, avocado oil, soybean oil
• Finish: matte or satin
• Available red shades: 3 (Open Late, Blind Date, Wild Card)

Best Liquid Lipstick: Maed Signature Lip Pigment Matte Liquid Lipstick in Ritual Red

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Maed

Signature Lip Pigment in Ritual Red

$36

Shop

$36

Sephora

Why we love it: If you can’t stand a chalky lip that settles into every line and somehow makes your lips look even drier, meet your match. Maed’s Signature Lip Pigment delivers the lasting power of a matte without the typical dryness or weight. The flexible formula moves with your lips, feels practically undetectable, and is packed with hydrators that keep them soft and smooth all day. The star ingredients do the heavy lifting: maca root adds dimension and a subtle glow (no flat, matte finish here), tucuma butter—a natural silicone alternative—locks in moisture and smooths texture, jojoba esters lend that buttery glide, and cherry coffee seed oil helps firm and support elasticity. Basically, it’s a long-wearing lip that feels like a gloss but performs like a liquid lipstick.

Allure commerce editor Sarah Han applying the Maed Signature Lip Pigment.

Sarah Han

Han after applying the Maed Signature Lip Pigment.

Sarah Han

Tester feedback from commerce editor Sarah Han

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"As I've gotten older, my tolerance for drying liquid lipsticks has gone down to…zero. (Heck, back in the day when I wore liquid lipsticks every day, I probably was already thinking, Why am I putting myself through this torture?) And while no liquid lipstick will ever wear as comfortably as my beloved lip tints, Maed’s Signature Lip Pigment comes pretty darn close. The secret? Cherry coffee seed oil, tucuma butter, and jojoba esters for a gosh-darn smooth glide and subtle sheen (that dries totally matte in a few minutes). And I've never seen an applicator like this one: It has a long, tapered-in end that hugs my lips perfectly, depositing a ridiculously even layer of pigment." —Sarah Han, commerce editor

Tester feedback from editor-in-chief Jessica Cruel

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More to know

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• Key ingredients: cherry coffee seed oil, tucuma butter, jojoba esters
• Finish: matte
• Available red shades: 1 (Ritual Red)

Best Matte Lipstick: Hung Vanngo Creamy Matte Longwear Lipstick in New York Red

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Hung Vanngo

Creamy Matte Longwear Lipstick in New York Red

$29

Shop

$29

Sephora

Why we love it: Fresh off of winning a 2026 Allure Best of Beauty Award, the Hung Vanngo Creamy Matte Longwear Lipstick is a matte that’s surprisingly comfortable to wear. Its creamy formula sets to a soft, blurred finish that looks smooth and stays hydrated for hours, wearing down evenly rather than fading or flaking in patches. That ease of wear comes down to the thoughtful blend of ingredients: sodium hyaluronate (a form of hyaluronic acid) to draw in and lock in moisture, vitamin E for antioxidant protection, and a run-resistant polymer that creates a flexible layer that keeps the color from fading.

Han applying the Hung Vanngo Creamy Matte Longwear Lipstick in New York Red

Sarah Han

Han after applying the Hung Vanngo Creamy Matte Longwear Lipstick in New York Red

Sarah Han

Tester feedback from Han

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“I distinctly remember a phase where I wore long-wearing matte liquid lipsticks exclusively—and my crusty lips somehow didn't deter me! Well, they do now, and I've been on a kick of more hydrating lip tints and tinted lip balms. But there's just something about opening and twisting up a classic bullet lipstick that I've been craving, and Hung Vanngo's New York Red is a gorgeous and very vibrant shade (just the way I like it) that is literally named after where I live! Thankfully, this matte lipstick isn't the least bit moisture-sucking—hi, hyaluronic acid and vitamin E—and glides on like a creamy dream.” —Sarah Han, commerce editor

More to know

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• Key ingredients: sodium hyaluronate, vitamin E
• Finish: matte
• Available red shades: 4 (Red Carpet Red, New York Red, 403 Red, Vanngo Red)

Best Luminous Matte: Charlotte Tilbury Matte Revolution Hydrating Lipstick in Hollywood Vixen

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Charlotte Tilbury

Matte Revolution Hydrating Lipstick in Hollywood

$37

Amazon

$37

Nordstrom

$37

Ulta Beauty

Why we love it: Charlotte Tilbury fans might know the Matte Revolution Hydrating Lipstick formula for its perfect pink-nude shade Pillow Talk, but its lineup of reds, including Hollywood Vixen, Pizzazz, and Flame Flame, deserves just as much attention. The formula starts as a soft stain and builds to full, saturated color, and feels comfortable no matter how many layers you apply. Antioxidant lipstick tree (Bixa orellana) extract soothes and conditions lips, vitamin E hydrates and smooths, while the "3D glowing pigments" give your lips a fuller, more radiant look, so the matte finish never goes dull. The square-angled tip works like a lip brush, making it easy to get a sharp edge right from the tube.

Allure commerce editor Madison San Miguel applying the Charlotte Tilbury Matte Revolution Hydrating Lipstick in Hollywood Vixen

Madison San Miguel

San Miguel after applying the Charlotte Tilbury Matte Revolution Hydrating Lipstick in Hollywood Vixen

Madison San Miguel

Tester feedback from commerce editor Madison San Miguel

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“I usually stay clear of red lipsticks because of the aftermath: the tug-of-war removal with my cleansing balm, pigment settling into my lip lines, and all of the other pains that come with. This formula has converted me back. Though I wouldn't describe it as a true matte, its hydrating base—vitamin E, buttery waxes—helped give it a subtle sheen (which I prefer). One quick swipe delivers rich pigment, while a second layer (or even more) easily builds the intensity without feeling gritty or heavy. It's comfortable, never drying, and most importantly, comes off with just a few swipes of my makeup remover.” —Madison San Miguel, commerce editor

More to know

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• Key ingredients: Bixa orellana extract, vitamin E
• Finish: matte
• Available red shades: 5 (Hollywood Vixen, Pizzazz, Flame Flame, Cinematic Red, Red Carpet Red)

Best Range of Reds: Poundcake Cake Batter Liquid Lipstick in Red Velvet

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Poundcake

Cake Batter Liquid Lipstick in Red Velvet

$24

Amazon

$24

Ulta Beauty

Allure associate beauty director Sarah Kinonen after applying Poundcake Cake Batter Liquid Lipstick in Red Velvet.

Sarah Kinonen

Why we love it: Just about every Allure editor has the Poundcake Cake Batter Liquid Lipstick in their makeup bag. This two-time Best of Beauty Award winner is a staff favorite for its rich pigment, staying power, and impressive conditioning properties (thanks to avocado oil and vitamin E). If lip liner feels like a chore, its easy-to-maneuver doe-foot applicator makes crisp, precise lines, so it acts as a two-in-one. It’s also super buildable—dab it on with your finger for a soft, just-bitten tint, or swipe it straight on for a bold, full-coverage lip that looks effortlessly polished.

Tester feedback from beauty director Sarah Kinonen

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"When I'm in the mood for a liquid lipstick, I reach for the Best of Beauty Award-winning Poundcake Cake Batter Liquid Lipstick in Red Velvet. It's a super-pigmented, suede-like formula that goes on opaque but dries down into a comfortable, long-wearing matte. Every time I've worn this bold shade, I've gotten hit with compliments. It's just so good!"—Sarah Kinonen, beauty director

More to know

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• Key ingredients: avocado oil, vitamin E
• Finish: matte
• Available red shades: 6 (Red Velvet, Strawberry, Bloodberry)

Best for Precise Application: Tom Ford Runway Lip Stylo Matte Lipstick in Scarlet Rouge

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Tom Ford

Slim Lip Color Shine in Scarlet Rouge

$47

Nordstrom

$55

Sephora

Allure former content director Kara McGrath applying the Tom Ford Slim Lip Color Shine.

Kara McGrath

Why we love it: What makes a slim lipstick so great? The thinner tip makes it easy to trace the corners of your mouth and define your Cupid’s bow—no liner or brush needed. That’s exactly why Tom Ford’s Slim Lip Color Shine is a permanent fixture in our makeup bags. Sure, it’s not the longest-wearing formula out there (that glossy finish comes with trade-offs), but it earns its spot as both a luxe lip balm and gloss in one. Packed with hydrating waxes and emollients like chamomile flower oil, it glides on like butter and somehow still delivers rich, even color. It’s a splurge, but the kind you’ll reach for so often, it basically pays for itself.

McGrath before applying the Tom Ford Slim Lip Color Shine in Scarlet Rouge.

Kara McGrath

McGrath after applying the Tom Ford Slim Lip Color Shine in Scarlet Rouge.

Kara McGrath

Tester feedback from former content director Kara McGrath

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“Applying this lipstick is nothing short of glorious. The formula is so pigmented and so silky that it goes on perfectly evenly in a single swipe. Since the bullet is quite thin, you can easily sneak into the corners of your mouth and define your Cupid's bow without using a lipstick brush. Scarlet Rouge is my perfect red; it leans slightly warm (which is ideal for me, a spring) but isn't so orange-y that it makes my teeth look yellow. Since it has a glossy finish, it's not the longest-lasting lipstick out there but, again, since it's so nice to put on, I don't mind reapplying.” —Kara McGrath, former content director

More to know

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• Key ingredients: Chamomile flower oil
• Finish: glossy
• Available red shades: 1 (Scarlet Rouge)

Best for Beginners: Nars Powermatte Lip Pencil in Dragon Girl

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Nars

Powermatte Lip Pencil in Dragon Girl

$32

Nordstrom

$32

Ulta Beauty

$32

Sephora

Allure senior art director Ingrid Fowler applying the Nars Powermatte Lip Pencil in Dragon Girl.

Ingrid Fowler

Why we love it: A modern twist on the brand’s beloved Velvet Matte Lip Pencils, the Nars Powermatte High-Intensity Lip Pencil (a Best of Beauty Award winner) packs bold pigment into a creamy, long-wearing formula that sets to a soft matte finish and lasts up to 12 hours. The chunky crayon makes it easy to swipe on full color in seconds, yet it's precise enough to double as a liner, making it the ultimate multitasker to stash in your bag. And true to Nars' form, the shade names are just as memorable as the formula—think American Woman, Born to Be Wild, and Dragon Girl.

Fowler before applying the Nars Powermatte Lip Pencil in Dragon Girl.

Ingrid Fowler

Fowler after applying the Nars Powermatte Lip Pencil in Dragon Girl.

Ingrid Fowler

Tester feedback from senior art director Ingrid Fowler

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“Nars was not kidding when they included ‘high-intensity’ in the name of this product. This pencil packs the punch of highly pigmented lip color. The formula is extremely creamy, going on easily with one swipe, but doesn’t budge or bleed out of place. The rounded pencil tip is my preferred product design since it makes it easy to apply with precision. I’m wearing the shade Dragon Girl, a bright red that complements my cool complexion.”—Ingrid Fowler, senior art director

More to know

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• Key ingredients: N/A
• Finish: matte
• Available red shades: 5 (Dragon Girl, Cruella, and Midnight Rider)

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I choose the best red lipstick for my skin tone?

Anyone can wear whatever red lipstick they like, full stop. "The right red is the one that makes you feel good," says Los Angeles-based makeup artist Fiona Stiles, whose clients include Margot Robbie, Gabrielle Union, and Lily Collins.

However, you can expedite finding a red lipstick you love by considering your skin tone and your skin's undertone. New York City-based makeup artist Diane Kendal previously told Allure that red shades with blue undertones give cool-toned, fair-to-light-medium complexions a more radiant appearance and even make teeth look whiter. For warm, medium skin tones, Kendal suggested orange-red shades—"Intense, yes, but they make olive skin glow by bringing out its golden tones," she says. As for deeper skin tones, she recommended red hues "with a lot of pink," which she said works beautifully against dark complexions.

How do you make red lipstick last?

We all love the look of freshly applied lipstick, but after a few hours (or drinks), things can start to look messy. Don't fret, because there are quite a few ways to make your look last for hours on end. Back in the day (2010 to be exact), New York City-based makeup artist Peter Phillips previously gave Allure editors a few tips on ensuring that any lip look stays put—and these hacks are still used by our staff to this day.

Prep your lips: Your results will only be as smooth and seamless as the actual skin on your lips. To smooth your skin pre-lipstick, try using a lip scrub or a damp washcloth to buff dry flakes. "Pat on a clear lip balm and give it a few minutes to sink in, then blot with a tissue," said Phillips.

Use setting powder after applying your lipstick: Makeup artists and Allure editors alike abide by this tip, especially when it comes to smudge-prone shades like red. Phillips recommended dabbing a light amount on the lips to keep your lipstick in place without drying out your skin. "Close your mouth, smile, and then dust a little face powder on your lips with a fluffy brush," he says. “Don't reapply lipstick or it could get cakey.”

If matte lipsticks are too dry for your lips, use a satin-finish option instead: Since many long-wearing lipsticks are matte and can dry out your lips, Phillips prefers satin-finish, pearlescent lipsticks. "The shine is created by pearl pigments and not by the texture. It's not as moist as a creamy lipstick and will therefore stay on longer," he said.

Is there a red lipstick that looks good on everyone?

Both experts agree that anyone can wear a red lip, but no single shade looks the same on everyone, since skin undertone, natural lip color, and finish all change how a red reads. "MAC Ruby Woo is absolutely a classic; that crisp blue-red can be beautiful across a wide range of skin tones," explains Tim Quinn, a makeup artist based in West Palm Beach, Florida. Jalia Pettis, a makeup artist based in Phoenix, Arizona, relies on the range of reds from The Lip Bar and Charlotte Tilbury.

Rather than stick with one go-to shade, both makeup artists switch it up. Choose a liner that matches your lipstick keeps red crisp and helps it last longer, while one closer to your natural lip color softens the edges. You can skip liner altogether with sheer balms and stains, since the point is a blurred, diffused look.

"On one person, a bright blue-red is magic; on another, a warmer red or a deeper, softer shade brings their whole face to life,” says Quinn. He also considers how the shade works with the rest of their makeup, noting that someone who feels overwhelmed by a bold matte lip might love that same look, just in a sheerer texture.

Meet the experts

• Fiona Stiles is a Los Angeles-based makeup artist
• Diane Kendal is a New York City-based makeup artist
• Peter Phillips is a New York City-based makeup artist
• Jalia Pettis is a Phoenix-based makeup artist
• Tim Quinn is a West Palm Beach-based makeup artist

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

Our staff and testers

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

After all, can we really say a skin-care product is the "best" for people over 50 if the only testers we've solicited opinions from 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.

More Allure editor-approved makeup coming in 3, 2, 1…

• Dewy Skin Is Always In, and These Foundations Bring on the Glow
• 6 Best Color Correctors for Dark Circles to Refresh and Brighten Tired Eyes
• 8 Best Pressed Powders for a Smooth Finish That Lasts All Day
• These Freckle Pens Look So Natural, They'll Fool Anyone

$145 at Kat BurkiSave StorySave this storySave StorySave this story

TL;DR:

• What it is: A potent eye serum packed with vitamin C, niacinamide, and retinol
• What it does: Brightens, smooths, and firms undereyes
• Who it’s for: Anyone who wants to give their dark circles and crow’s feet a run for their money

Undereyes have an uncanny—and not always welcome—ability to tell on us. One late night, or early morning, or just too many hours staring at a screen, and suddenly everyone’s asking you if you’re not feeling well.

Dark circles, puffiness, and crow’s feet—whatever the undereye concern you woke up with (or stayed up with), Kat Burki’s Rose Hip Intense Recovery Eye Serum takes on the challenge. The lightweight serum is packed with a cocktail of powerhouse ingredients (brightening vitamin C, calming niacinamide, and fine-line-fighting retinol) to tackle all of the above, while rose hip oil keeps the thin-skinned area nice and hydrated.

Because the silky texture feels more like a treat than a treatment, it’s one step we’re never tempted to skip (after cleansing and moisturizer, of course)—and our undereyes are better for it.

Kat Burki Rose Hip Intense Recovery Eye Serum is in the October Allure Beauty Box.

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Kat Burki Rose Hip Intense Recovery Eye Serum

$145 at Kat Burki$145 at Kat Burki

Collage: Jemeria Davison; Source images: Courtesy of brandsSave StorySave this storySave StorySave this story

Choosing the best gifts for teenage girls can feel like trying to keep up with TikTok trends—blink, and you're already behind. Between the latest beauty crazes, the influx of influencers on their screens, and teens having very specific opinions about what's cool, finding something they'll actually love (and use) is no small feat.

But don't panic: To help you navigate the ever-changing tastes of Gen Z and Gen Alpha, we've rounded up 37 fun, practical gifts that got the stamp of approval from actual teens we talked to. Think viral beauty favorites from Rhode, Summer Fridays, and Glow Recipe; makeup sets from Dior and Charlotte Tilbury; and in-demand accessories like Jellycat plushies (which, frankly, our editors want for themselves). We've also thrown in a few tech favorites, from colorful over-ear headphones to instant cameras, for teens whose wish lists go well beyond the beauty aisle.

Our Top Gifts For Teenage Girls

• Scent with Love: Sol de Janeiro Cheirosa Anywhere Set, $49
• Mint to Be: Rhode Sugarmint Trio Limited Edition Skincare Set, $58
• Brushed with Greatness: L’ange Le Volume 2-in-1 Titanium Brush Dryer, $69
• The VIP Treatment: Benefit Cosmetics The Hotel Beneville, $168
• Handle With Care: Sincerely Yours P.S. Special Delivery, $42
• Think Pink: Rare Beauty Hope Faves, $54
• Glow From Head to Toe: Medicube Fresh Glow Body Kit, $25

• Rhode Sugarmint Trio Limited Edition Skincare Set

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  Rhode

  Sugarmint Trio Limited Edition Skincare Set

  $58

  Sephora

  Leave it to teens to make wearing undereye patches out of the house a fashion statement. Rhode's limited-edition Sugarmint Trio gives them everything they need to join the trend, starting with the brand's cooling Eye Prep patches for a quick dose of hydration (and a selfie opportunity, naturally). There's also Glazing Mist to refresh dry, winter-weary skin and Peptide Lip Boost to keep lips soft and glossy when temperatures drop. Consider it a pared-down cold-weather skin-care routine, Hailey Bieber-approved aesthetic included.

• L’ange Le Volume 2-in-1 Titanium Brush Dryer

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  L’Ange

  Le Volume 2-in-1 Titanium Brush Dryer

  $69 $49 (29% off)

  Amazon

  $69

  Shop

  First, can we acknowledge how unfair it is that teens today get to skip the awkward hair phase entirely? Tools like L’ange’s Le Volume 2-in-1 Titanium Brush Dryer make achieving a bouncy, salon-worthy blowout almost too easy, combining the power of a blow-dryer and round brush to smooth frizz and pump up the volume in one step. Choose the 60mm oval barrel for shoulder-length or shorter hair, or the 75mm version for longer lengths.

• DedCool X Emi Jay Gift Set In Mint Mochi Sky

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  DedCool X Emi Jay

  Gift Set In Mint Mochi Sky

  $59

  Sephora

  $59

  Dedcool

  "My teen niece has three Emi Jay claw clips already, but apparently there’s no such thing as too many of these hair accessories,” says Christa Joanna Lee, Allure contributing commerce writer. This limited-edition DedCool x Emi Jay collab pairs one of the brand's fan-favorite Big Effing Clips with a hair-and-body mist in Mochi Milk, a cozy, slightly sweet skin scent that smells like fluffy marshmallows, creamy vanilla, and warm musk. There's even a matching air freshener to make her bedroom—or future first car—smell just as good.

• Charlotte Tilbury Pillow Talk Dreams Come True Set

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  Charlotte Tilbury

  Pillow Talk Dreams Come True Set

  $390

  Amazon

  $390

  Nordstrom

  $390

  Revolve

  If you really want to score brownie points with the teen in your life, don't even bother wrapping Charlotte Tilbury's Pillow Talk Dreams Come True set—it'll only slow them down. Packed with 16 full-size best-sellers, it's everything they need to recreate those TikTok makeup tutorials they've been saving—whether they're just starting their makeup collection or (more likely) adding to their already overflowing Charlotte Tilbury stash. Everything comes in the brand's signature Pillow Talk shade, a rosy beige that Allure former features director Dianna Singh says "is one of very (very) few hues that somehow suits everyone." We're talking lipsticks, lip liners, blushes, and plenty of opportunities to experiment with new looks (and show off their haul to the group chat).

• Benefit Cosmetics The Hotel Beneville

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  Benefit Cosmetics

  The Hotel Beneville

  $168

  Nordstrom

  $168

  Ulta Beauty

  $168

  Sephora

  The teen in your life probably already has Benefit Cosmetics' Hoola Powder Bronzer, Benetint Cheek & Lip Stain, or BADgal BANG! Mascara on their wish list. So why not make all their Benefit dreams come true with The Hotel Beneville, an advent calendar packed with the brand's makeup and beauty favorites? Shaped like an adorable little suitcase, it's begging to be ‘grammed before the unboxing begins. Technically, they're supposed to open one surprise a day, but good luck finding a teen with that kind of self-control when there's this much good makeup waiting inside.

  More from Allure

  • 9 Best Vanilla Perfumes for a Fresh Take on a Classic Note
  • 11 Best Red Lipsticks That Go From Day to Night
  • 19 Best Beauty Advent Calendars We Want to Gift Ourselves
  • 26 Best Amazon Gifts Under $50 That Feel Surprisingly Luxe

• MAC Signature Satin Lipstick Set

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  MAC

  Signature Satin Lipstick Set

  $79

  Nordstrom

  $79

  Ulta Beauty

  For the teen who's always experimenting with a new lip combo, five full-size MAC lipsticks are her love language. The Signature Satin Lipstick 5-Piece Set includes M·A·Cximal Sleek Satin Lipsticks in Brave Red, Rebel, Popstar Pink, Crème In Your Coffee, and Fleshpot, giving her plenty of options to go from barely-there nude to bold, statement-making color. Each delivers rich color with a creamy, satin finish that feels comfortable on lips—all in a sleek, glittery bag.

• Fenty Beauty Lip Vault

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  Fenty Beauty

  Lip Vault

  $160

  Ulta Beauty

  $160

  Sephora

  $160

  Shop

  Speaking of a lip wardrobe, if she's on Team Glossy, the Fenty Beauty Gloss Bomb Vault is about to become her entire personality. This limited-edition 10-piece set includes four Gloss Bomb Lip Luminizers, a plumping Hot Choclit Heat gloss, and a sparkly Carat Club lip oil for when she wants to dial up the shine. The set also includes two Gloss Bomb Stix and two Trace'd Out lip liners. With five new, exclusive shades in the mix, she'll have enough options to switch up her lip look practically every day of the week.

• Saie Best of Saie Mini Vanity Case Vault

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  Saie

  Best of Saie Mini Vanity Case Vault

  $155

  Sephora

  $155

  Shop

  Our editors can't get enough of the dewy, fresh-faced glow that Saie delivers, so when the brand packages its best-sellers in an adorable mini vanity case, we're sold. The Best of Saie Mini Vanity Case Vault includes six full-size products and two minis, with everything from blush to lip gloss to setting powder. One of the minis includes the 2025 Best of Beauty Award-winning Glowy Super Gel in Warmglow, which is what Allure art director Ingrid Fowler uses when she wants “a bronzy, glow-from-within look without doing a full face of makeup.

• Lululemon Everywhere Crossbody Bag

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  Lululemon

  Everywhere Crossbody Bag

  $78

  Lululemon

  Whether she's on the younger side and not quite ready for a full-on purse or an older teen who wants to keep her hands free, Lululemon's Everywhere Crossbody Bag is the perfect in-between. It's just roomy enough for the essentials—phone, lip gloss, wallet, and whatever else she insists she can't leave the house without. Plus, the removable crossbody strap lets her switch up how she carries it.

• Jellycat Amuseables Farfalle

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  Jellycat

  Amuseables Farfalle

  $25

  Nordstrom

  For the teen whose idea of fine dining is bow-tie pasta with butter, this ridiculously cute farfalle plush is made for her. "Every Christmas and birthday, my teen niece adds two or three Jellycats to her wish list," says Lee. Want to make it a pasta-tively perfect gift? Throw in the Jellycat Amuseables Parmesan, because even stuffed pasta is better with a little cheese.

• Sol de Janeiro Cheirosa Anywhere Set

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  Sol De Janerio

  Cheirosa Anywhere Set

  $49

  Amazon

  $49

  Ulta Beauty

  $49

  Shop

  When it comes to gifts for teen girls, Sol de Janeiro has always understood the assignment. The Cheirosa Anywhere Set includes two fragrance duos, each with a mini perfume mist and a swipe-on Jelly Perfume Balm: Cheirosa 62, a Readers’ Choice Award-winning pistachio, vanilla, and caramel gourmand blend, and Cheirosa 68, a fresh, fruity floral. For the teen who already has a collection of Sol de Janeiro mists lined up on her dresser, the solid perfumes are a fun new way to wear her favorites—or throw in her backpack without worrying about spills.

• Summer Fridays Marshmallow Minis

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  Summer Fridays

  Marshmallow Minis

  $36

  Sephora

  $36

  Revolve

  The teen in your life probably already has Summer Fridays' Jet Lag Mask in her skin-care rotation, so what's next on her wish list? The Marshmallow Minis set includes the brand's beloved Lip Butter Balm, plus a Body Butter Balm and Body Fragrance Mist, all in the sweet, cozy Toasted Marshmallow scent. Soft skin, buttery lips, and smelling like a toasted marshmallow? The gourmand girlies are going to eat this up (figuratively, of course).

• Sincerely Yours P.S. Special Delivery

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  Sincerely Yours

  P.S. Special Delivery

  $42

  Sephora

  $42

  Shop

  Do we really need to say anything more than "Sincerely Yours" to get a teen girl's attention? Co-founded by TikTok star Salish Matter, the skin-care brand is made for Gen Alphas that grew up watching her videos, with gentle formulas designed for their first real skin-care routines. The P.S. Special Delivery set includes four mini versions of the Kindly Clean Hydrating Cleanser, Clear Intentions Essential Toner, So Soft Daily Moisturizer, and Hit Refresh Soothing Serum Mist. “The serum face mist particularly helps replenish moisture and support the skin barrier with ceramides—a big plus for teens who are just starting to experiment with acne treatments that can leave skin dry and irritated," says Lee.

  More from Allure

  • 9 Best Vanilla Perfumes for a Fresh Take on a Classic Note
  • 26 Best Amazon Gifts Under $50 That Feel Surprisingly Luxe
  • 19 Best Beauty Advent Calendars We Want to Gift Ourselves
  • 11 Best Red Lipsticks That Go From Day to Night

• Rare Beauty Hope Faves

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  Rare Beauty

  Hope Faves

  $54

  Ulta Beauty

  $54

  Sephora

  $54

  Shop

  Rare Beauty obviously got the memo: Makeup is a lot more fun when you have an adorable little bag to stash it all in. The Hope Faves set features three products in the brand's fan-favorite Hope shade, a soft, rosy mauve that gives cheeks and lips that effortless, just-blushed look. There's a mini Soft Pinch Dewy Liquid Blush, a full-size Soft Pinch Matte Bouncy Blush (a Best of Beauty winner!) for a more diffused flush, and a full-size Positive Light Luminizing Lip Gloss for the finishing touch.

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There are plenty of ways to become a blonde, but if your dream color is hair that looks naturally lightened, you’ll want to ask your colorist for a blonde balayage. The technique has become synonymous with soft, dimensional color and a forgiving grow-out, but “balayage” can mean different things depending on the colorist, the starting point, and the result you want.

It also doesn’t automatically mean a subtle, barely there blonde. “I think that people often associate balayage with ombré or muted blondes,” says Emaly Baum, colorist and founder of Beauty Supply in New York City. “While you use balayage to achieve softened blondes or more ‘grown-out’ looks, balayage is simply a technique.” That means you can go seriously blonde with balayage; it’s the placement and blending that give the color its characteristic softness. Whether you’re starting with dark brown hair and want strategically placed blonde or you’re already fairly light and want a more dimensional result, the service can be customized considerably.

We asked colorists to explain what blonde balayage involves, who it works best for, what to request when you’re in the salon chair, and how to keep those blonde pieces looking fresh—not faded or brassy—long after your initial appointment.

In this storyAccordionItemContainerButtonLargeChevron

• What is balayage and how is it different from traditional highlights?
• Who is blonde balayage best for?
• How do you get blonde balayage?
• How do you maintain blonde balayage?
• Blonde balayage inspiration

What is balayage and how is it different from traditional highlights?

Technically, balayage is a highlighting technique, not a hair color. The word has traditionally referred to hair being hand-painted, creating a more customized distribution of lighter pieces, but its meaning has evolved over time.

“Balayage originally meant painting highlights directly onto the hair without using foil,” says Ian McCabe, colorist and owner of Navy in Washington, DC. “In recent years, it has become a catchall term for dimensional highlights that grow out with more ease.” That means modern balayage can involve some foil. According to McCabe, colorists may use foils alongside techniques such as back-combing to create a softer result. A root shadow can also help gradually transition from a slightly darker shade near the roots into lighter lengths, helping blur the line between the natural hair color and blonde highlights.

The biggest visual difference between traditional blonde highlights and blonde balayage is the way the blonde transitions through the hair. “Traditional highlights are generally evenly light from root to ends, whereas balayage creates more of a gradient effect,” McCabe explains. The goal is a dimensional result with a softer, more seamless grow-out.

Baum describes balayage as “much softer and diffused” than a traditional foil highlight, often creating a sun-kissed appearance. “This doesn’t mean that you can’t be super blonde with balayage,” she says. “It just means that your grow out is going to be that much better.”

Paige Van Ryswyk, a colorist and hairstylist at Scotch Bonnet Hair Studio in West Palm Beach, Florida, agrees that balayage is particularly suited to a lived-in effect but that it doesn’t rule out a brighter impact. “Blonde balayage is simply best for a more low-maintenance client,” she says.

If you've been avoiding balayage because you think it means you'll end up with barely perceptible beige ribbons, reconsider. Blonde balayage can be very blonde. But if those barely perceptible beige ribbons sound right up your alley, good news: Blonde balayage is also right for you. It’s just that adaptable.

Who is blonde balayage best for?

One of the technique's biggest advantages is flexibility. “Because balayage is so customizable, it’s suitable for most people,” Baum says. It's particularly appealing if you want fewer salon appointments and don't want to see an obvious line of demarcation. “I think the client who is opting for blonde balayage definitely wants an easier grow-out with fewer appointments to maintain their roots,” she says.

Brunettes can absolutely get blonde balayage, although the amount of maintenance depends on how dramatic the transformation is. Someone with a dark base who wants a few dimensional blonde pieces has a different journey ahead of them than someone seeking an overall very light blonde effect. Your starting color also affects what blonde tone makes the most sense. “If someone has an incredibly dark base color, a platinum blonde balayage will probably not complement them as well as a bronde dimensional look,” Van Ryswyk says.

That doesn't mean dark-haired clients are excluded from blonde balayage. It just means the consultation should be about finding a blonde tone that works with your existing color rather than treating Pinterest photo inspo as a promise of what you’ll be able to achieve.

How do you get blonde balayage?

Bring photos, but don't just show your colorist a picture and say, “I want this.” Talk through what you actually like about it, and listen when they tell you what is and isn’t feasible. Do you want blonde concentrated around the face? Lighter mid-lengths and ends? A subtle, sunny effect? A bold contrast between your base and blonde? Do you want your natural roots left mostly untouched? These are all factors in how your colorist will proceed.

Van Ryswyk says that, regardless of the overall look, the goal is to create enough blending that you don't feel desperate to get back into the salon before your scheduled appointment. For an especially low-maintenance version, your colorist can strategically keep the roots natural. For a brighter result, they may create more lightness and contrast throughout the hair.

There isn't one correct version of blonde balayage—there's the version that fits your hair and your willingness to maintain it.

How do you maintain blonde balayage?

Van Ryswyk generally recommends booking clients three to six months out, compared with closer to two months for a highlight that goes to the scalp. The beauty of balayage is that it can go a long time between appointments, but your home routine still matters.

All of the colorists we spoke to emphasize the importance of a gentle, color-safe shampoo and a moisturizing conditioner. “I really like the Rōz Foundation Shampoo and Conditioner,” Baum says. “They leave the hair feeling clean and moisturized, but the conditioner is not too heavy.”

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Rōz

Foundation Shampoo and Conditioner

$72

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$72

Sephora

Leave-in treatments are also a must—especially ones that promise heat protection if you’re not just air-drying. “Always use heat protection when using a blow-dryer or hot tools, and keep your tools set to a lower temperature to avoid burning the hair, which can increase fading or discoloration,” says McCabe, who recommends the Milbon Color Retaining Primer because it also defends hair against UV exposure. For deeper conditioning, he recommends, use a mask like the Davines Nounou Mask weekly or every other week.

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Davines

Nounou Mask

$44 $37 (16% off)

Amazon

$45

Nordstrom

$45

Sephora

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Milbon

Color Retaining Primer

$40

Sleekshop

For extra credit, try an at-home gloss—even if it’s just a colorless one. “An at-home hair gloss can be really beneficial for keeping your balayage looking fresh and shiny,” says Baum, who suggests the clear version of Glaze Supergloss to her clients because it restores movement to the highlights. “The shade Vanilla Lights is also a great option to help neutralize brassiness.”

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Glaze

Supergloss

$18

Amazon

Blonde balayage inspiration

Photo: Getty ImagesPhoto: Getty ImagesPhoto: Getty ImagesPhoto: Getty ImagesPhoto: Getty ImagesPhoto: Getty ImagesPhoto: Getty ImagesPhoto: Getty ImagesPhoto: Getty ImagesPhoto: Getty ImagesPhoto: Getty ImagesPhoto: Getty Images

Meet the experts

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• Emaly Baum is a colorist and the founder of Beauty Supply in New York City.
• Ian McCabe is a colorist and the owner of Navy in Washington, DC.
• Paige Van Ryswyk is a colorist and hairstylist at Scotch Bonnet in West Palm Beach, Florida.