SPF Meets Hydration in These Multitasking Moisturizers
Collage: Jemeria Davison / Images: Getty, SephoraSave this storySave this story
If applying sunscreen feels like a chore, the best moisturizers with SPF might be the solution you've been searching for. Simply put, a moisturizer with SPF is a face cream that provides broad-spectrum sun protection rated SPF 30 or higher. (We follow the guidelines set by the American Academy of Dermatology, and so should you!) These moisturizers offer hydration, plumpness, and added radiance, thanks to ingredients such as hyaluronic acid, niacinamide, and peptidesâwith the added benefit of UV and free-radical protection. Scroll on and shop these editor- and dermatologist-recommended facial moisturizers with SPF to ensure your skin is in tip-top health all year round.
Our Top Moisturizers with SPF
- Best Overall: Isdin Fusion Water Magic SPF 40, $38
- Best for Dry Skin: Beauty of Joseon Day Dew Sunscreen Broad Spectrum SPF 50, $18
- Best for Combination Skin: Supergoop Dewscreen Hydrating Primer SPF 50, $38
- Best for Oily Skin: La Roche-Posay Toleriane Double Repair Face Moisturizer UV SPF 30, $26
- Best Brightening: Olay Super Cream with Sunscreen SPF 30, $35
- Best Under Makeup: Naturium Dew-Glow Moisturizer SPF 50 PA++++, $22
- Best for Sensitive Skin: Bioré UV Aqua Rich Daily Hydrating Facial Moisturizer SPF 50, $16
- Best for Mature Skin: Clinique Smart Clinical Repair SPF 30 Wrinkle Correcting Cream, $77
Frequently Asked QuestionsLargeChevron
- What are the best ingredients to look for in a moisturizer with SPF?
- How should I apply a moisturizer with SPF?
- Is a moisturizer with SPF as good as wearing sunscreen?
- Meet the experts
- How we test and review products
- Our staff and testers
Best Overall: Isdin Fusion Water Magic SPF 40
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Isdin
Fusion Water Magic SPF 40
Amazon
Dermstore
Sephora
Why itâs worth it: Isdinâs Fusion Water Magic SPF 40 pulls double duty as a sunscreen and makeup primer, creating a silky-smooth base that reads naturalânot matte, but never greasyâand works well across all skin tones. (No chalky finishes here!) The weightless, serum-like texture also feels more like skin care than traditional sunblockâand it has a subtle floral aroma, if you're into that. Thanks to antioxidant-rich Mediterranean algae to defend against oxidative stress, hyaluronic acid to deeply hydrate, and vitamin E to soothe, this Best of Beauty-winning formula fights free radicals from environmental stressors like blue light and pollution, leaving behind a fresh and glowy finish that layers beautifully under your glam without pilling.
Allure editor in chief Jessica Curel applying the Isdin Fusion Water Magic SPF 40
Jessica Cruel
Cruel after applying the Isdin Fusion Water Magic SPF 40
Jessica Cruel
Tester feedback from editor in chief Jessica Cruel
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âToo greasy, too shiny, too oily, too chalkyâthese are all complaints that I hear from my family when I ask them if they are using sunscreen every day. That's when I recommend this Isdin Water Magic formula. It's a chemical sunscreen that goes on like a moisturizer. The finish is not matte, but it won't leave you looking greasy. It absorbs quickly and blends seamlessly into my brown skin with no purple tint. It's the perfect fit for those that hate the idea of sunscreen because of the way it feels. This lightweight option will leave them with no complaints.â âJessica Cruel, editor in chief
More to know
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- Type: chemical
- Key ingredients: 9% octocrylene, 7.3% homosalate, 4.5% octisalate, 2.7% avobenzone, Mediterranean algae, hyaluronic acid, vitamin E
- Fragrance-free: yes
Best for Dry Skin: Beauty of Joseon Day Dew Sunscreen SPF 50
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Beauty of Joseon
Day Dew Sunscreen Broad Spectrum SPF 50
Sephora
Kohl's
Allure contributing commerce writer Christa Joanna Lee applying the Beauty of Joseon Day Dew Sunscreen Broad Spectrum SPF 50
Christa Joanna Lee
Why it's worth it: Beauty of Joseon's Day Dew Sunscreen has officially replaced the brandâs viral Relief Sun (which you can only buy in and ship from Korea) with the same lightweight feel as the original, just in a US-compliant formula. Itâs infused with rice grain and fermented rice extracts to calm and condition your face, and it skips the sticky residue and white cast, leaving behind a veil of straight-up hydration. It also taps water-attracting hyaluronic acid, brightening niacinamide, and soothing panthenol to leave behind a dewy finish that mimics a just-left-a-facial glow. Your dry skin doesnât stand a chance with this one.
Lee before applying the Beauty of Joseon Day Dew Sunscreen Broad Spectrum SPF 50
Christa Joanna Lee
Lee after applying the Beauty of Joseon Day Dew Sunscreen Broad Spectrum SPF 50
Christa Joanna Lee
Tester feedback from contributing commerce writer Christa Joanna Lee
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âIf youâd blindfold me and I couldn't see the word âsunscreen' on the tube, I could swear Beauty of Joseonâs Dewy Day Sunscreen is just a lightweight moisturizer. It has that milky-but-not-goopy slip, sinks in immediately, and leaves a healthy, dewy sheen that makes my skin look (and feel) way more hydrated.â âChrista Joanna Lee, contributing commerce writer
More to know
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- Type: chemical
- Key ingredients: 3% avobenzone, 7% homosalate, 5% octisalate, 5% octocrylene, hyaluronic acid, niacinamide, panthenol
- Fragrance-free: yes
Best for Combination Skin: Supergoop Dewscreen Hydrating Primer SPF 50
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Supergoop
Dewscreen Hydrating Primer SPF 50
Ulta Beauty
Allure commerce editor Sarah Han applying the Supergoop Dewscreen Hydrating Primer SPF 50
Sarah Han
Why itâs worth it: Since youâre always applying sunscreen before makeup, why not choose one that fulfills both roles? Supergoopâs Dewscreen Hydrating Primer SPF 50 blends broad-spectrum UV protection with the benefits of a hydrating primer. Peptides, hyaluronic acid, and tremella mushroom help drench skin in lasting moisture for that plump, lit-from-within effect, as well as help your base makeup glide on evenly and stay put. We affectionately call this our skin care, sun care, and makeup prep wrapped into one glow-boosting essential.
Han before applying the Supergoop Dewscreen Hydrating Primer SPF 50
Sarah Han
Han after applying the Supergoop Dewscreen Hydrating Primer SPF 50
Sarah Han
Tester feedback from commerce editor Sarah Han
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âSupergoop is a top-tier sun-care brand, but the brand really deserves its flowers with its latest creation. Dewscreen is easily my favorite Supergoop product, ever: Itâs a true moisturizer-first formula with a boost of SPF, which my dehydrated skin drinks up like that, and thereâs just a hint of grippiness that helps my makeup look flawless and stay in place all freaking day and night. Dewscreen makes my skin look like a dewy dumplingâno matter how tired I feel in the morning, it instantly perks up my skin. Because itâs so moisturizing, it takes a beat to fully blend out, but thatâs not a con at all. Iâd rather be as thorough as possible and ensure Iâm applying the right amountâyes, even on the dreariest winter days.â âSarah Han, commerce editor
More to know
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- Type: chemical
- Key ingredients: 3% avobenzone, 9% homosalate, 4.5% octisalate, 9% octocrylene, peptides, hyaluronic acid
- Fragrance-free: yes
Best for Oily Skin: La Roche-Posay Toleriane Double Repair Face Moisturizer UV SPF 30
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La Roche-Posay
Toleriane Double Repair Face Moisturizer UV SPF 30
Ulta Beauty
La Roche-Posay
Allure commerce writer Lily Wohlner applying the La Roche-Posay Toleriane Double Repair Face Moisturizer UV SPF 30
Lily Wohlner
Why itâs worth it: This oil-free La Roche-Posay Toleriane Double Repair Moisturizer is a favorite of May Hall, DO, a double board-certified dermatologist based in Asheville, North Carolina, who says it absorbs quickly while still leaving the barrier hydrated and calm. Connecticut-based, board-certified dermatologist, Mona Gohara, MD, adds that the âsuper hydrating ceramides and niacinamide bring down any inflammation like a pro.â This makes it a solid choice for oily skin types who are also prone to acne. Struggling with redness? The brandâs signature Thermal Spring Water soothes and rebalances your complexion for calmer, more even-toned skin. According to Dr. May, itâs perfect for everyday use, whether under makeup or before heading out on a long walk.
Wohlner before applying the La Roche-Posay Toleriane Double Repair Face Moisturizer UV SPF 30
Lily Wohlner
Wohlner after applying the La Roche-Posay Toleriane Double Repair Face Moisturizer UV SPF 30
Lily Wohlner
Tester feedback from commerce writer Lily Wohlner
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âI love how lightweight La Roche-Posay's Toleriane Double Repair Moisturizer feels on my oily-leaning combination skin. It has a super watery texture that does take a feew swipes to rub in, but once it's blended it leaves no white cast and actually feels super hydrating without a heavy feel. Plus, it layers great under my makeup and never pills.â âLily Wohlner, commerce writer
More to know
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- Sunscreen type: chemical
- Key ingredients: 3% avobenzone, 5% homosalate, 5% octisalate, 7% octocrylene, ceramide-3, niacinamide, glycerin, silica, Thermal Spring Water
- Fragrance-free: yes
Best Brightening: Olay Super Cream with Sunscreen SPF 30
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Olay
Super Cream with Sunscreen SPF 30
Amazon
Walmart
Allure beauty director Sarah Kinonen applying the Olay Super Cream with Sunscreen SPF 30
Why itâs worth it: A 2025 Allure Best of Beauty Award winner, Olayâs Super Cream Sunscreen SPF 30 is a drugstore classic that we editors keep coming back to. It starts strong with chemical-filter UV defense and moves along to hydrating, smoothing, firming, and brightening thanks to heavy hitters like vitamins C and E, hyaluronic acid, niacinamide, and collagen peptides. It skips any dreaded white cast or greasiness during application and leaves skin looking plump and hydrated instead. This formula draws inspiration from the brandâs beloved Super Serum, which offers many of the same hydrating and plumping perks via vitamin E and collagen peptidesâbut skips the dose of AHA exfoliation.
Kinonen before applying the Olay Super Cream with Sunscreen SPF 30
Sarah Kinonen
Kinonen after applying the Olay Super Cream with Sunscreen SPF 30
Sarah Kinonen
Tester feedback from beauty director Sarah Kinonen
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âI'm not usually a multi-use skin-care kinda girl. I like my products to do one and one thing only. But lately, because it's so hot outside and I'm usually running late (oops), two-in-ones don't sound so bad. Hence why I've been using the Olay Super Cream SPF 30 on days when I simply just Can Not. It's rich but easily blendable, doesn't leave behind a cast, and has a decent SPF level my dermatologist would approve of. What's not to like?â âSarah Kinonen, beauty director
More to know
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- Type: chemical
- Key ingredients: 3% avobenzone, 9% homosalate, 4.5% octisalate, 6% octocrylene, hyaluronic acid, niacinamide, collagen peptides, vitamin C, vitamin E
- Fragrance-free: no
Best Under Makeup: Naturium Dew-Glow Moisturizer SPF 50 PA++++
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Naturium
Dew-Glow Moisturizer SPF 50
Amazon
Ulta Beauty
Why itâs worth it: If you find yourself fretting that your sunscreen is going to ruin your makeup, Naturiumâs Dew-Glow Moisturizer SPF 50 will put your worries to bed. This silky formula wears beautifully under bases, blushes, and everything in between, and boasts a PA++++ rating (a standard metric for Korean sunscreens). The gist? âThe greater the number of plus signs [the max being four], the better the level of protection against UVA rays that visibly age us," Joshua Zeichner, MD, a board-certified dermatologist in New York City, explains. In comparison, the standard measurement of sunscreen strength (the SPF number) measures UVB rays, a.k.a. the shorter wavelengths that cause sunburns.
Youâll also get a nice dose of squalane, niacinamide, and vitamin C to lock in moisture, blur texture, and boost radiance. And pro tip: The cap can be used to measure out the dermatologist-recommended amount of product for the face.
Former Allure content director Kara McGrath applying the Naturium Dew-Glow Moisturizer SPF 50 PA++++
Kara McGrath
McGrath after applying the Naturium Dew-Glow Moisturizer SPF 50 PA++++
Kara McGrath
Tester feedback from former content director Kara McGrath
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"This lotion is just so yummy. The lightweight formula absorbs very quickly, but leaves my skin feeling hydrated and looking dewy for the entire day. It's great for layering under makeup; I have yet to experience any pilling. Also, you can't really beat a $22 price point." âKara McGrath, former content director
More to know
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- Sunscreen type: chemical
- Key ingredients: 3% avobenzone, 10% homosalate, 5% octisalate, squalane, niacinamide, vitamin C
- Fragrance-free: yes
Best for Sensitive Skin: Bioré UV Aqua Rich Weightless Moisturizer SPF 50
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Bioré
UV Aqua Rich Weightless Moisturizer SPF 50
Amazon
Yesstyle
Why itâs worth it: Whatâs better than a Best of Beauty Award winner? A dermatologist-approved BOB winner, obviously. âBiorĂ©âs budget-friendly UV Aqua Rich Weightless Moisturizer SPF 50 is formulated with chemical filters, so it leaves zero white cast. Itâs also dermatologist-tested, non-comedogenic, oil-free, and gentle on sensitive skin,â says Geeta Yadav, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in Toronto. A stacked lineup of glycerin, arginine, and sodium hyaluronate helps hydrate without adding extra weight and repair a weakened barrier, which Dr. Yadav says makes it ideal for reactive skin. The icing on the SPF cake? The silky formula absorbs super quickly for a fresh glow that lasts all day, whether applied under makeup or worn alone.
Tester feedback from features director Dianna Singh
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âI discovered this incredibly lightweight SPF a few years ago during a trip to Tokyo and promptly purchased three of them to bring back home with me. Now, you can get the same quick-to-blend formula right here in the USâwithout the added baggage fees." âDianna Singh, features director
More to know
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- Sunscreen type: chemical
- Key ingredients: 3% avobenzone, 10% homosalate, 5% octisalate, 5% octocrylene, hyaluronic acid, arginine,
- Fragrance-free: yes
Best for Mature Skin: Clinique Smart Clinical Repair SPF 30 Wrinkle Correcting Cream
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Clinique
Smart Clinical Repair SPF 30 Wrinkle Correcting Cream
Amazon
Nordstrom
Ulta Beauty
Why itâs worth it: Wearing SPF daily helps ward off early signs of aging like fine lines and wrinkles, and Clinique's Smart Clinical Repair SPF 30 Wrinkle Correcting Cream takes it a step further by pairing broad-spectrum SPF 30 with wrinkle-targeting ingredients that support collagen and smooth the look of skin over time. At its core is a custom peptide complex, which features four different plump-promoting peptides designed to help boost collagen for firmer skin with continued use. Hydrators like hyaluronic acid and glycerin replenish moisture, leaving the skin looking plump and refreshed. A boost of antioxidants, including vitamin D, helps defend skin against free radicals, the molecules that speed up the breakdown of collagen and elastin and contribute to thinner, drier, crepier skin over time. The texture strikes a balance between airy and comforting, absorbs without a greasy residue, and sits pretty under makeup.
Tester feedback from Lee
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âThe fast-absorbing texture hits that sweet spot for meânot too heavy, not too airyâwhich makes it easy to incorporate into my busy-mom skin-care routine. As I head into the last year of my 30s, Iâm very much in my preventative-care era. This one quickly cures my dry patches, and gives me the protection I need without feeling like an extra step.â âChrista Joanna Lee, contributing commerce writer
More to know
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- Sunscreen type: chemical
- Key ingredients: 3% avobenzone, 7% homosalate, 3.5% octinoxate, 4.5% octisalate, peptides, hyaluronic acid, glycerin
- Fragrance-free: yes
Best Drugstore: Neutrogena Hydro Boost Hyaluronic Acid Moisturizer SPF 50
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Neutrogena
Hydro Boost Hyaluronic Acid Moisturizer SPF 50
Amazon
Ulta Beauty
Why itâs worth it: When it comes to lightweight hydration, Neutrogena has a strong track recordâjust look at the best-selling Hydro Boost Water Gel. This SPF-spiked version, the Hyaluronic Acid Moisturizer SPF 50, infuses that same bouncy moisture into a daily sunscreen. The chemical formula blends in clear (no chalky cast here), feels barely there on skin, and dries down with a fresh, healthy-looking glow. Hyaluronic acid keeps skin looking plump and smooth, while antioxidants, including vitamin E, add an extra layer of defense against environmental stressors (alongside the UVA and UVB protection, of course).
Tester feedback from senior commerce editor Sarah Felbin
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âThis moisturizer saved my oily skin all summer long. It comes out white but blends in quickly and doesn't leave any white cast behind. It feels thin and lightweight (and most importantly, not greasy, which can happen when SPF gets involved). After I applied it in the morning, I noticed my skin looked glowier, and it didn't make my makeup pill or slide off my face halfway through the day. Bonus points for any moisturizer with a pump, which I find way more sanitary than a jar.â âSarah Felbin, senior commerce editor
More to know
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- Type: chemical
- Ingredients: avobenzone 3%, homosalate 15%, octisalate 5%, octocrylene 10%, hyaluronic acid
- Fragrance-free: yes
Best Tinted: Revision Skincare Intellishade Original Tinted Moisturizer SPF 45
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Revision Skincare
Intellishade Original Tinted Moisturizer SPF 45
Amazon
Dermstore
Why itâs worth it: Revision Skincareâs Intellishade SPF 45 Tinted Moisturizer is loaded with skin-loving ingredients like hydrating jojoba oil and glycerin, plus soothing aloe and beeswax. Together with mineral sunscreen filters and brightening and soothing antioxidants like vitamins C and E, and green tea, this formula blocks UVA and UVB raysâthe main culprits behind wrinkles and dark spots. The tint is sheer and weightless, letting your natural skin shine through for a fresh, radiant look. (Dr. May calls it a go-to for no-makeup-makeup days.) Prefer no color? The Intellishade TruPhysical Clear SPF 50 gives slightly more protection, but in a sensitive-skin-friendly, pregnancy-safe formula (itâs 100% mineral) with similar hydrating ingredients.
More to know
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- Sunscreen type: hybrid
- Key ingredients: 7.5% octinoxate, 5% octisalate, 3.5% titanium dioxide, 3% zinc oxide, yellow iron oxide, jojoba oil, glycerin, aloe vera, beeswax
- Fragrance-free: yes
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best ingredients to look for in a moisturizer with SPF?
Like all sunscreens, a moisturizer with SPF will contain chemical and/or mineral UV filters to protect your skin against the sun's harmful UVA and UVB rays, which can lead to signs of aging, such as fine lines, and, on a larger scale, skin cancer. We adhere to the American Academy of Dermatologyâs (AAD) guidelines and only recommend sunscreens with broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher. However, your sunscreen-day cream hybrid will contain at least one of the following ingredients for long-lasting hydration:
Niacinamide
We consider niacinamide to be one of the gold-standard multitaskers in skin care. This antioxidant, also known as vitamin B3, evens skin tone and minimizes the look of hyperpigmentation while also supplying hydration and supporting the skin barrier. "Niacinamide works with your skin's natural chemistry to improve overall skin texture by rebuilding a lipid layer, minimizing the appearance of pores, and preventing UV damage and inflammation," Seattle-based board-certified dermatologist Brandith Irwin, MD, previously told Allure.
Hyaluronic acid
Hyaluronic acid is the queen of hydration. This gentle, sensitive-skin-friendly ingredient acts as a powerful humectant, which means it attracts and binds water to the surface layer of skin, therefore hydrating it. "[Hyaluronic acid is] great at holding water and giving skin resilience and firmness," says New York City-based board-certified dermatologist Doris Day, MD.
Ceramides
To replenish and seal in much-needed moisture, many creams depend on ceramides. "Ceramides are fatty acids in the skin that help to maintain the skin barrier and retain moisture and hydration," Dr. Idriss previously explained to Allure. They're also soothing ingredients to look out for when treating skin conditions like eczema.
How should I apply a moisturizer with SPF?
As with any other sunscreen, you still need to reapply these formulas throughout the day, every two hours, to be specific, to stay protected. (Oh, and wearing sunscreen indoors is also non-negotiable.) Claire Chang, MD, a board-certified dermatologist in New York City, reminds us, "Most adults need about one ounce of sunscreen (a shot glass full) to fully cover the body." For your face and neck, Dr. Chang says that equates to about 0.3 teaspoons, or the size of two nickels. And don't forget commonly missed areas, like your eyelids, ears, and chest.
Is a moisturizer with SPF as good as wearing sunscreen?
As long as the moisturizer in question has the AAD's recommended broad-spectrum SPF 30 rating or higher, and you're applying enough (as outlined above), it's on par. If moisturizers with SPF motivate you to wear the damn SPF, all the more power to you and them.
"Hybrid skin-care products have gained popularity recently as consumers are trying to simplify their skin-care routines," says Dr. Chang. "SPF-infused moisturizers are a direct result of the desire to do more with less." She also reassures us that just because there's an added benefit of broad-spectrum sun protection, it does not mean these moisturizers are thicker in texture or pore-clogging. What's more, she confirms SPF-infused moisturizers are "regulated and tested by the same Food and Drug Administration (FDA) procedures as sunscreens," so they're not more diluted in terms of protection.
Meet the experts
- Claire Chang, MD, a board-certified cosmetic dermatologist at Union Square Laser Dermatology in New York City
- Mona Gohara, MD, associate clinical professor at Yale School of Medicine's Department of Dermatology
- Mina Amin, MD, a board-certified dermatologist specializing in medical, surgical, and cosmetic dermatology at California Dermatology Specialists in Los Angeles
- Brandith Irwin, MD, a board-certified dermatologist in Seattle
- Doris Day, MD, a board-certified dermatologist in New York City
- Shereene Idriss, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in New York City and founder of Dr. Idriss Skincare
- Joshua Zeichner, MD, a board-certified dermatologist in New York City
- Dara Spearman, MD, a board-certified dermatologist in Fort Wayne, Indiana
- May Hall, DO, a double board-certified dermatologist based in Asheville, North Carolina
How we test and review products
When Allure tests a product, our editors look at it from every angle 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 thatâs 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 moisturizers with SPF, we considered each productâs 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 contributorsâalong with special consideration from board-certified dermatologists. To learn more information on our reporting and testing processes, read our complete reviews process and methodology page.
Our staff and testers
A beauty product is a personal purchase. You might be searching for a face cream to address persistent dryness or a new nail product to add to your Sunday self-care routine; you may simply be browsing around for the latest launches to hit the hair market. No matter what you seek or your individual needs and concerns, Allure wants to ensure that you love anything we recommend in our stories. We believe that having a diverse team of writers and editorsâin addition to the wide range of outside testers and industry experts we regularly call uponâis 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 weâve 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 itâs never been tested on curls? Weâre 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.
For more of our favorite, hard-working skin-care products, keep reading:
- 9 Best Korean Cleansers to Hydrate, Exfoliate, and Remove Makeup
- 8 Best Peptide Serums for Plump, Bouncy Skin
- 9 Best Neck Creams to Improve Lines, Laxity, and Texture
Demi Moore’s Wet-Look Gucci Bob Is So High FashionâSee the Photos
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If there's ever a time to make a big, dramatic change to your look, it's while you're sitting front row at the Gucci show during Milan Fashion Week, with an adorable teeny dog in your lap. Okay, so most of us don't exactly have that kind of high-fashion access, but Demi Moore does, and she hit up Demna's much-anticipated first runway show looking like a Gucci dream in a sleek, chic wet-look bob.
When you think of the Oscar-nominated actor, you probably think about her long, straight, free-flowing dark hair, but her long hair was nowhere in sight in Milan. Instead, the The Substance star swapped it for a swingy cropped cut that fell just below her jawline, crafted by hairstylist Dimitris Giannetos. (The two apparently call it a âDemi-tris bob,â which is cute.)
Giannetos styled the bob to look as though Moore just stepped out of the shower or had a dip in the pool, with lots of wet, piece-y texture. When paired with her black leather jacket, pants, and face-shielding sunglasses, the look was futuristic but also a little Y2K, like Moore was hanging out on the set of The Matrix. In short, it fit right in with Demna's design aesthetic.
âI wanted to give Demi a very bold and fashion forward look for Demnaâs show. It is inspired by the silhouettes of the new collection," Giannetos shared. âI felt an amazing, short, above-the-shoulder bob with this very sleek wet texture would be perfect to complement her look. Itâs a big change for Demiâweâve never seen her like this before! She looks very cool, effortless and modern. And it highlights her personality.â
To replicate the look, you'll need a good hair gel for that defined, damp effectâbut you'll have to find your own version of Pilaf the dog.
Getty Images
Moore is a Gucci gal, so we weren't surprised to see her sitting front row at the show. Last year, she even starred in a short film for the brand, playing a character named Barbara Gucci; Barbara Gucci didn't have a bob, but she did have curtain bangs! While we highly doubt that Moore has permanently ditched her long hair, it's so fun to see her change things up in such a major way. Wait⊠Do I want a bob now?
Ribbed-Glass Nails Are 2026âs Fanciest Nail Trend
Courtesy of nail artistsSave this storySave this story
If you grew up sipping sparkling cider from your grandmotherâs fluted glassesâthe ones that only came out with the fancy china on holidaysâyou already understand the appeal of our latest manicure obsession. Ribbed-glass nails feature thin, raised lines painted close together in a vertical pattern. The linear texture and light-catching dimension evoke vintage elegance, resulting in a manicure that whispers old money. âItâs heirloom energy reimagined,â says New York City-based nail artist Elle Gerstein.
This look neatly intersects two trends that experts predicted would define 2026: touchable texture and stripes. When we asked nail pros what would shape the year ahead, nearly all of them pointed to raised, dimensional finishes as the next evolution of nail art, and ribbed glass may be one of the most refined interpretations of that forecast.
The look is already dominating our feeds, and ribbed-glass nails also made a runway appearance during New York Fashion Week. Nail artist Christina Duong crafted a black-and-gold metallic ribbed manicure for the Sergio Hudson show, mirroring the collectionâs sharp pinstripes.
Instagram /@cqdnails
This look is just beginning to gain traction stateside, but textured-gel designs have been thriving in South Korea. âTextured gel is currently very popular. It works beautifully as an accent and has a refined, expressive finish,â Minseo Kang, a nail artist in Seoul, previously told Allure.
Achieving the ribbed-glass effect is surprisingly straightforward. âUse a cat-eye polish as your base, then cure,â says Leslie Morel, a nail artist in Bergen County, New Jersey. âGo over your base with a matte topcoat and cure for 60 seconds.â Morel prefers to use a clear glossy topcoat for the lines, and a thin nail brush to paint them: âThe trick is to draw the lines as close together as possible without overlapping or connecting them.â
In Seoul, artists often rely on specialized tools to perfect the texture. Many reach for a small, flat brush with bristles that are denser at the base and finer at the tipsâalmost like a wide-tooth combâto carve ultra-precise ridges that feel architectural yet delicate.
Gianni Garcia, a nail artist and creative director of Art Nail NYC, prefers using spider gel to achieve crisp, raised lines. After dipping a dotting tool into the thick, elastic formula, she lifts and stretches the gelâlike a super thin cheese pullâto lay down perfectly straight strands across the nail. Once the ribbed pattern is in place over a solid base, cure and seal with a topcoat. Says Garcia, âThis makes the process quicker and easier.â
The realistic depth and glass-like shimmer make glossy stripes over a cat-eye base the internetâs favorite iteration of the ribbed-glass nail look, but the design is highly customizable. You can opt for glossy ribs over matte polish, matte stripes over a high-shine base, or cat-eye lines layered atop velvet shimmer. The interplay of texture and finish is what gives the look its dimension.
Ready to try this expensive-looking manicure for yourself? Ahead, the ribbed-glass designs that made us double-tap.
Ribbed-Glass Nails Inspiration
Purple ribbed-glass nails
Instagram / @inspirenailstudioscotland
Instagram / @taminailartist
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Instagram / @nailsby_bjpSilver ribbed-glass nails
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Carolyn Bessette-Kennedy Is Not Your Unwitting Brand Ambassador
Photo: Getty ImagesSave this storySave this story
Carolyn Bessette-Kennedy died in a plane crash off the coast of Marthaâs Vineyard with her husband, John F. Kennedy Jr., and sister, Lauren Bessette, on July 16, 1999. I was 20 years old, which means I was a teenager in the mid-90s as Bessette-Kennedy became a reluctant beauty icon. Her style was seemingly effortless, undeniably enviable, and so unattainable that Iâsomeone whose entire wardrobe came from the Deliaâs catalogâfelt it pointless to pay it much mind.
But others understandably celebrated her style, and that celebration only intensified after her sudden, horrific death at 33. It was cyclical. Every few years, Iâd watch magazines and digital articles re-up interest in her style with shoppable tributes, often based on the designers and brands she was confirmed to have worn: Leviâs 517s, a camel-colored Prada coat, Abdul Kareem Egyptian Musk.
With the launch of Ryan Murphyâs new biographical show, Love Story: John F. Kennedy Jr. & Carolyn Bessette, interest in Bessette-Kennedy has skyrocketed like never before, and the current hunger to recreate her minimalist, anti-trend style has taken on new proportions. No longer is it just about reporting on or referencing the designers and colors and silhouettes that she favored. In recent weeks, brands that didnât even exist in 1999 are diluting this complex, intelligent womanâwho, lest we forget, died tragicallyâinto a tool to sell their stuff without her consent.
Photo: Getty Images
Since the showâs premiere earlier this month, beauty editors like myself have been inundated with increasingly tone-deaf email pitches about Carolyn Bessette-Kennedyâs lookâto the point that some editors say theyâve gotten dozens over the course of this week. âChannel your inner CBK,â reads one email I received recently about headbands. âThe Carolyn Bessette-Kennedy lip is back!â declares another, pitching a lip oil that will help you achieve a âsheen that feels refined and unfussy, just like Carolyn.â Another pitch says her hair color âwas the kind of blonde that whispers luxury, rather than shouting for attentionâand you can now recreate it with [brand name redacted]!â (The exclamation mark really got me.) And the one that truly sums up whatâs making me scowl: a subject line that reads, âCarolyn Bessette Would Have Loved These Skincare Products.â
Perhaps I shouldnât be surprised that the commodification of Carolyn has spread beyond the inbox and into consumer-facing social media content. Kim Kardashian playfully posed in a blonde wig that her colorist deemed âThe Carolyn Bessette-Kennedy Blondeâ in the caption (even if thatâs not entirely accurate). At least they didnât use the hashtag #BessetteBlonde, like Schwarzkopf did in an Instagram post about a highlighting technique the brand called âfoiled cashmere, inspired by Carolyn Bessette-Kennedy.â (Imagine losing a friend and, years later, seeing their name used for a cutesy, alliterative hashtag to promote a salon service.)
Brands are diluting this complex, intelligent womanâwho, lest we forget, died tragicallyâinto a tool to sell their stuff without her consent.
Needless to say, and disappointingly, the pitches are working. Or, if Iâm to give them the benefit of the doubt, perhaps they started after the content of questionable tact began showing up in feeds and Google search results. Influencers are posting TikToks and Reels recommending products they think Carolyn Bessette-Kennedy would have used in her morning routine. Digital outlets are posting Amazon affiliate-linked âshop the lookâ lists.
Hereâs the kicker: almost none of the products theyâre pushing are ones Bessette-Kennedy ever laid hands on. What are we doing here, guys? Itâs one thing for beauty journalists to report on the confirmed details of this beauty iconâs routine (as Allure did recently). Itâs another to turn someone who is no longer with us, no matter how stylish and beautiful, into your own personal brand ambassador. These oddly jovial pitches put her public image through a marketing strainer, sometimes promoting products that donât even align with her aesthetic (or, like lip oils, that didnât exist when she was alive).
Iâve been on the PR side of beauty, so I understand that turning big cultural moments into âconversionsâ (aka actual purchases) is part of the process. But as crucial as it may be to find relevant hooks to ignite editorsâ and consumersâ interest in products, there is nothing particularly effective about suggesting that a woman who didnât live to see her 34th birthday would have totally used this new gel sheet mask infused with niacinamide.
Itâs par for the publicity course to send âget the lookâ pitches to editors. Or, in other words, to highlight your clientsâ products that seem similar to what a celebrity used (but didnât). Celebritiesâthe ones who are alive, anywayâknow and must accept, to some extent, that their image is used to sell products they have no affiliation with. (Most of them, of course, also make money from the sale of products with which they do have an affiliation.) Itâs a common practice.
But it isnât a practice that Bessette-Kennedy ever opted into. She was a woman known as much for her consistent, impeccable style as for the high value she put on her privacy. She never used her own image to promote products or gave interviews about her look. Would that have changed if she had lived to see the social media age? Perhaps. Personally, I highly doubt it.
Photo: Getty Images
It is not a bad thing to want to look like Carolyn Bessette-Kennedy. Thereâs absolutely nothing wrong with everyday people taking inspiration from her image long after her death, as often happens with public figures who were lost tragically and far too young. Thereâs a clear line between inspiration and commodification, though, and from where Iâm sitting, itâs been beyond crossed.
I donât purport to know how Bessette-Kennedy would want to be remembered. Sheâs more than just her untimely death, of courseâshe was, in fact, an accomplished publicist herself, which makes this entire situation unfortunately ironic. But while Iâm sure she would appreciate that sheâs one of the most lauded American tastemakers of her time, I doubt she would delight in being boiled down to an Instagram video on the products you need to get her radiant complexion or an email pitch for at-home hair dye.
Iâve Tested K-Beauty Products for 15 Years, and These Are the Best for Treating Acne
Collage: Jemeria Davison; Source images: Courtesy of brandsSave this storySave this story
Acne is rarely caused by just one thing. Itâs usually a melting pot of excess sebum, dead skin cells, and a sprinkle of acne-causing bacteria that turns into breakouts. And to make matters more complicated, diet, hormones, genetics, and stress can also play a role.
But after 15 years of studying, testing, and curating Korean skin careâas an esthetician and cofounder of Soko GlamâIâve learned that Korean skin care has a much more nuanced approach to acne. K-beauty focuses on supporting the skin barrier and calming acne-induced inflammation, rather than stripping the skin and treating it aggressively. It's an approach that has helped not only me, personally, but also countless others.
This philosophy has become more meaningful to me over time. I dealt with acne as a teenager, and then again in my 30s, and I know that I wasnât alone, as 50% of adults deal with adult acne. Now that Iâm 40, Iâm a strong advocate for treating acne with gentle intention, cushioning your skin with the right hydration, medicinal botanicals, and even (mini) bandages for your breakouts.
Calming Medicinal Botanicals
Korean insiders know that soothing ingredients such as mugwort extract and Centella asiatica (commonly referred to as cica) still reign supreme in K-Beauty to help treat inflamed or sensitive skin. Mugwort is another traditional Korean ingredient known to be anti-inflammatory and antibacterial. It not only reduces visible redness but also helps support the skinâs natural healing process.
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I'm From
Mugwort Essence
Nordstrom
Soko Glam
Ulta Beauty
I’m From’s Mugwort Essence has the most potent mugwort formula (100% mugwort) that helps calm redness and irritation without overwhelming the skin. Your skin will drink it up!
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Neogen
Real Cica Pads
Amazon
Soko Glam
These are a treat for irritated, inflamed, and congested skin. I love sweeping these soft pads across my skin, as the fragrance-free cica formulation gives my skin comfort and hydration.
Intentional Hydration
One of the biggest lessons Korean beauty teaches us is that dehydration can worsen acne. This can seem counterintuitive, especially for oily, breakout-prone skin, but when skin is stripped, it can lead to a cycle of congestion and breakouts. Thatâs why I turn to lightweight hydrators that can be layeredâIâm talking about toners, essences, and lightweight creams that can bring the skin barrier back to life, so that it can be more balanced and keep acne at bay.
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Good Light
Glow Milky Toning Lotion
Amazon
Soko Glam
A classic milky toner that feels as juicy as it looks, this is like a drink of water for your skinâkeeping your skin hydrated and looking radiant. You can skin-flood with this toning lotion, which then thankfully layers well under skin care and makeup. (Editor’s note: Good Light is shutting down, so grab this while you can!)
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Superegg
MicroBiome Mist
Amazon (100 ml)
Revolve (100 ml)
Soko Glam (30 ml)
This is a superfine mist I reach for immediately after coming out of the shower or washing my face. It supplies a much-needed layer of hydration infused with fermented yeast and green tea, two anti-inflammatory ingredients that cocoon the barrier with moisture.
Patches to the Rescue
So you have a breakout, now what? Sometimes your path to healing faster and with a lower risk of scarring is to treat your pimple like a wound (because it technically is!). Hydrocolloid patches have been a staple in Korean skin-care routines, long before pimple patches became a global trend. They not only create a protective seal over blemishes, but they also absorb excess fluid, in addition to shielding skin from bacteria, picking, and your grimy handsâall important steps to flattening breakouts pronto.
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The Klog
Soft Shield Pimple Patch
Amazon
Soko Glam
I wanted to make sure that these were one of the most affordable sets on the market. When creating them, we focused on how well they can adhereâso they have beveled edges, making them very thin and discreet. This is key for people like me who want their pimple patches to stay on all day.
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Cosrx
Acne Pimple Master Patch
Amazon (10-Pack)
Soko Glam (1-Pack)
A classic for a reason, these put pimple patches on the map. They are one of the best at absorbing and protecting the skin.
PHAs Over BHAs
If you havenât gotten the memo by now, gentleness is king when it comes to treating breakouts in K-beauty. Korean products typically focus on exfoliants that have larger molecular sizes or gentler derivatives, so the ingredients don't penetrate as deeply and cause unnecessary irritation. PHAs, such as gluconolactone, are my favorite exfoliants in Korean skin care that can be used daily for acne-prone skin. Willow bark extract, a natural derivative of salicylic acid (which is a BHA), is my favorite ingredient that offers gentle exfoliation without compromising the skin barrier.
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Then I Met You
Soothing Tea Cleansing Gel
Amazon
Soko Glam
I formulated this rice-infused cleanser with PHAs so that this second cleansing step can feel intentional and deliver results you can see: clearer and brighter skin after a few weeks of use.
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Some by Mi
AHA-BHA-PHA Miracle Cream
Amazon
Soko Glam
This bouncy, jelly-like miracle cream contains the trifecta of acids (AHA, BHA, and PHA) and is cushioned with the right hydrating ingredients (think tea tree leaf water, cica, and madecassoside). Allow it to gently exfoliate while your skin repairs itself at night, so that you wake with congestion-free, clear skin.
Korean Serums Are Like a 10-Step Routine in a Single Bottle
Collage: Paula Balondo; Source images: Courtesy of brandsSave this storySave this story
If you want to know what the next trending skin-care ingredient is going to be, you should look to the best Korean serums and ampoules. Theyâre usually the first products on the market to bring the most innovative, future-forward formulas straight to your skin-care routine. For example, K-beauty serums featured the likes of snail mucin and Centella asiatica (a.k.a. cica) long before these ingredients made their way stateside. These days, PDRN injection alternatives, glutathione, and madecassoside are the most sought-after ingredients in Korean serums. (More on those later.)
Like the best Korean skin-care products weâve come to know and love, Korean serums focus on deeply nourishing skin and preventing signs of aging rather than drying it out with harsh actives and offering quick fixes for pre-existing fine lines and wrinkles. âPlus, Korean serums tend to have a non-sticky, lightweight texture,â says David Kim, MD, a board-certified dermatologist in New York City. âThatâs a big reason why so many people really like them.â Most are also fragrance-free and can be used daily, both morning and night.
Our Top Korean Serums
- Best Overall: Aestura A-Cica365 Soothing Relief Serum pH4.5, $38
- Best for Glass Skin: Beauty of Joseon Glow Serum, $17
- Best Vitamin C: Dr. Althea Vitamin C Boosting Serum, $27
- Best Retinol: Iope Retinol Super Bounce Serum, $35
- Best for Uneven Tone: Medicube PDRN Pink Peptide Serum, $22
- Best for Fine Lines: Haruharu Wonder Rose PDRN Firming Serum, $22
- Best for Sensitive Skin: Anua Azelaic Acid 10 Hyaluron Redness Soothing Serum, $22
Ahead, youâll find Korean serums and ampoules that Allure editors, dermatologists, and K-beauty experts canât get enough of from brands such as Beauty of Joseon, Dr.Althea, Iope, and CosRx. We made sure to cover all skin concerns with formulas that deliver major moisturizing, brightening, hydrating, and firming benefits. Plus, weâll share exactly how to incorporate them into your skin-care routine.
Frequently Asked QuestionsLargeChevron
- What is the difference between serums and ampoules?
- How do I incorporate Korean serums into my skin-care routine?
- Meet the experts
- How we test and review products
- Our staff and testers
Best Overall: Aestura A-Cica365 Soothing Relief Serum pH4.5
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Aestura
A-Cica365 Soothing Relief Serum pH4.5
Sephora
Yesstyle
Olive Young
Allure contributing commerce writer Christa Joanna Lee applying Aestura A-Cica365 Soothing Relief Serum pH4.5
Why we love it: One detail K-beauty has long emphasized is the importance of pH in skin-care formulations. Korean skin care is built around the idea that healthy skin thrives in a slightly acidic environmentâroughly pH 4.5 to 5.5âwhich helps keep the barrier strong and irritation in check. Aesturaâs A-Cica365 Soothing Relief Serum pH4.5 is formulated to match that natural acidity, supporting barrier skin while helping calm inflammation and speed recovery when skin is stressed. The serum also leans into classic K-beauty soothers, including Centella asiatica, alongside ceramides and squalane to reinforce the skin barrier.
Need further proof that it's worth your money? âThis has been a long-time best seller in Korea and is now finally launching in the US,â says Hee Jin Kim, MD, a board-certified internal medicine physician based in Fort Lee, New Jersey. âWhat excites me about Korean skin care like this is that itâs not just about stronger activesâitâs about delivery systems, barrier intelligence, and layering strategies that support long-term collagen health.â
Lee before applying Aestura A-Cica365 Soothing Relief Serum pH4.5
Lee after applying Aestura A-Cica365 Soothing Relief Serum pH4.5
Tester feedback from contributing commerce writer Christa Joanna Lee
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âYou caught me on a day when I decided to test a new exfoliatorâso my cheeks were definitely more red than usual. When it comes to sensitive skin, Aestura can pretty much do no wrong in my book. The A-Cica365 Soothing Relief Serum pH4.5 sinks in within seconds and immediately takes the edge off irritation without any tstingling or weird tingling from strong actives. Itâs one of those formulas I instinctively reach for when my skin needs calming, because anything from Aestura has earned my trust for zero irritation.â âChrista Joanna Lee, contributing commerce writer
More to know
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- Key ingredients: Centella asiatica, ceramides, squalane
- Fragrance-free: yes
Best for Glass Skin: Beauty of Joseon Glow Serum
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Beauty of Joseon
Glow Serum
Amazon
Sephora
Allure associate beauty editor Annie Blay-Tettey applying the Beauty of Joseon Glow Serum
Annie Blay-Tettey
Why we love it: Inspired by the timeless beauty ideals of Koreaâs Joseon Dynasty (an era that celebrated gyuhap yogo, or graceful, natural elegance), Beauty of Joseon revives traditional hanbang (Korean herbal medicine) with a modern skin-care twist. The brandâs Glow Serum brings that philosophy to life by delivering radiance and renewal in a single silky formula. While best known for its dewy finish, itâs also a stealthy exfoliating treatment. With betaine salicylate (a mild beta-hydroxy acid) to smooth uneven texture and refine pores, plus propolis, niacinamide, and turmeric to calm and brighten, this serum leaves skin balanced and soft.
Tester feedback from associate beauty editor Annie Blay-Tettey
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âI'm always on a quest to find products that will boost my skin's glow and this niacinamide-based serum has been a great addition to my arsenal. I love how the jelly texture sinks into my skin without leaving a sticky residue. Plus, it pairs great with my moisturizers and Beauty of Joseon SPFâit never pills.â âAnnie Blay-Tettey, associate beauty editor
More to know
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- Key ingredients: propolis extract, niacinamide, betaine salicylate (BHA)
- Fragrance-free: yes
Best Vitamin C: Dr.Althea Vitamin C Boosting Serum
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Dr. Althea
Vitamin C Boosting Serum
Ulta Beauty
Why we love it: Dr.Altheaâs Vitamin C Boosting Serum is a skin-brightening powerhouse. Its first ingredient is Hippophae rhamnoides (a.k.a. sea buckthorn) water, which is naturally rich in vitamin C. Itâs joined by pure vitamin C, niacinamide, and tranexamic acid to diminish dullness, roughness, and dark spots. For those unfamiliar with the latter ingredient, studies have found that tranexamic acid reduces hyperpigmentation by "blocking the interaction between keratinocytes [a.k.a. skin cells] and melanocytes [a.k.a. melanin-producing cells]," Dr. Chang previously told Allure.
What sets this formula apart is its thoughtful balance of efficacy and comfort. âItâs lightweight and gentle, with a noticeably low irritation profile,â says Dr. David Kim, making it a great option even for those who tend to struggle with traditional vitamin C serums. For extra sensitivity, the serum is also available in a lower-potency version with 20% sea buckthorn water instead of 63%.
Allure contributor Devon Abelman applying the Dr. Althea Vitamin C Boosting Serum
Devon Abelman
Abelman after applying the Dr. Althea Vitamin C Boosting Serum
Devon Abelman
Tester feedback from contributor Devon Abelman
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âThis is officially my favorite vitamin C serum. Reason being: It doesnât change colors, sting, or smell like bologna brine. Even though itâs fragrance-free, I think Dr. Altheaâs Vitamin C Boosting Serum smells like freshly squeezed Florida orange juiceâpulp and all. Scent aside, I love how dynamic this formula is. It covers all the bases for achieving the healthy skin of your dreams: brightening, hydrating, smoothing, and healing. Texture-wise, itâs viscous and almost gel-like without feeling sticky.â âDevon Abelman, contributor
More to know
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- Key ingredients: hippophae rhamnoides water (63%), ascorbic acid, cica, niacinamide, tranexamic acid, hyaluronic acid
- Fragrance-free: yes
Best Retinol: Iope Retinol Super Bounce Serum
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Iope
Retinol Super Bounce Serum
Amazon
Soko Glam
Yesstyle
Allure commerce editor Sarah Han applying Iope Retinol Super Bounce Serum
Sarah Han
Why we love it: Although retinol is a relatively recent addition to K-beautyâs spotlight, IOPE has been working with this wrinkle-smoothing ingredient for nearly two decades. The brandâs Retinol Super Bounce Serum feels especially future-forward, thanks to a four-retinoid blendâincluding pure and encapsulated retinol, granactive retinoid, and bio-seletinoidâthat delivers a multi-phase approach to firming, plumping, and refining texture. The result is visible smoothing without sacrificing comfort. âThis is an excellent retinol option for patients who want to address fine lines and wrinkles with less irritation,â says Dr. Chang, who also calls it âa great entry pointâ for anyone easing into retinoids. With its cushiony, hydrating feel, the serum helps skin look clearer and more rejuvenated in as little as a weekâjust donât skip SPF during the day.
Tester feedback from commerce editor Sarah Han
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âIâve found myself leaning towards Retinol Bounce during the colder months for an extra boost of hydration, though it works well any time of the year. It melts into my skin and makes my complexion notably plumperâand my thicker nighttime moisturizers seem to absorb better, too.â âSarah Han, commerce editor
More to know
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- Key ingredients: four retinoids (pure retinol, encapsulated retinol, granactive retinoid, and bio-seletinoid), squalane, Lactobacillus ferment lysate
- Fragrance-free: yes
Best for Barrier Repair: Sulwhasoo First Care Activating Serum
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Sulwhasoo
First Care Activating Serum
Amazon
Nordstrom
Allure senior news editor Nicola Dall’Asen applying the Sulwhasoo First Care Activating Serum
Nicola Dall'Asen
Why we love it: Fun fact: Sulwhasooâs parent company, AmorePacific, was the first to incorporate ginseng into skin careâa tradition that continues with Sulwhasooâs iconic First Care Activating Serum. This beloved serum taps into the power of ginseng (aged for 500 hours!) and proprietary herbal extracts to deeply nourish, brighten, and strengthen skin from the inside outââhelping repair the barrier, boost collagen, and fight signs of aging,â says Y. Claire Chang, MD, a board-certified cosmetic dermatologist based in New York City, who calls it âespecially beneficial for mature or dull skin.â Like many K-beauty brands, the brand takes the sensorial experience seriously: âSulwhasoo has always felt luxurious. The herbal extracts give it an elegant, grounding scent that feels so soothing,â adds Dr. Hee Jin Kim.
Dall’Asen before applying the Sulwhasoo First Care Activating Serum
Nicola Dall'Asen
Dall’Asen after applying the Sulwhasoo First Care Activating Serum
Nicola Dall'Asen
Tester feedback from senior news editor Nicola DallâAsen
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When my skin's in serious need of extra TLCâas in, spend-an-entire-night-doing-a-12-step-routine seriousâthis serum is the first thing I grab after my face is double-cleansed. It's the ultimate K-beauty serum in my eyes because its barely-there texture allows me to layer it with as many other serums, sheet masks, and creams as I like without pilling, which is exactly what it's designed to do. Packed with anti-oxidant ginseng, it works with your other skin-care steps to boost hydration, elasticity, brightness, and overall skin barrier strength. It's a non-negotiable step before I put on any sheet mask, but it works just as effectively on its own.â âNicola DallâAsen, senior news editor
More to know
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- Key ingredients: ginseng, herbal extracts, vitamin C
- Fragrance-free: no
Best for Uneven Tone: Medicube PDRN Pink Peptide Serum
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Medicube
PDRN Pink Peptide Serum
Amazon
Ulta Beauty
Allure video producer Lauren Alberti applying the Medicube PDRN Pink Peptide Serum
Lauren Alberti
Why we love it: Somehow, Medicube has worked its way into everyoneâs TikTok feed, and with formulas like their PDRN Pink Peptide Serum, we understand why. Itâs all about helping uneven, tired-looking skin return to a smoother, more balanced state. The hero is salmon PDRN, a K-beauty favorite known for supporting skin repair and improving texture, which helps tone look more even over time. These topical salmon DNA products are âvery similar to human DNA and can help with skin quality, luminosity, and texture,â Jennifer Levine, a New York City-based board-certified plastic surgeon, previously told Allure. Niacinamide brightens and smooths, while adenosine and a multi-peptide blend (including copper peptides) support firmer, healthier-looking skin. Hydrators like glycerin and sodium hyaluronate keep skin plump and comfortable, while calming botanical extractsâthink rose, turmeric, and holy basilâround out the formula.
The end result feels very on-brand for Medicube: effective, gentle, and focused on real results without overwhelming your skin. P.S. While the serum leans soothing overall, it contains fragrance, which could be sensitizing if your skin is extremely reactive, so donât forget to patch-test.
Tester feedback from video producer Lauren Alberti
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âI've been using this product for the last few months as part of my never-ending battle against dry skin. After a few uses, I could see that this was definitely contributing more hydrated looking skin, helping me achieve that dewy glow. I typically use it with the Medicube Booster Pro to really get the product into my pores.â âLauren Alberti, video producer
More to know
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- Key ingredients: salmon PDRN, niacinamide, adenosine, peptides, glycerin, sodium hyaluronate, rose, turmeric, and holy basil
- Fragrance-free: no
Best for Fine Lines: Haruharu Wonder Rose PDRN Firming Serum
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Haruharu Wonder
Wonder Rose PDRN Firming Serum
Amazon
Yesstyle
Lee applying the Haruharu Wonder Rose PDRN Firming Serum
Christa Joanna Lee
Why we love it: If you were going to trust any brand to make retinol both effective and gentle, it would be Haruharu Wonder. The Rose PDRN Firming Serum is designed for mature skin, targeting fine lines, texture changes, and collagen loss without overwhelming sensitive skin. It uses 0.1% retinalâstrong enough to smooth wrinkles and encourage renewal, yet carefully balanced for better tolerability. Vegan PDRN, derived from Damascus rose stem cells, which helps support skin regeneration and long-term resilience. And if your skin has struggled with retinol in the past, this one has your back: Adenosine, ceramides, Centella asiatica, and a blend of peptides (including copper peptides) work together to calm, fortify, and firm the skin barrier. The velvety finish is the cherry on top, because no K-beauty formula is complete without a luxe, sensorial experience.
Tester feedback from Lee
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âThis is a really solid option if youâre looking for a beginner-friendly retinal serum that plays nicely with sensitive skin. I use a prescription tretinoin that has to be refrigerated, which means on nights Iâm too lazy to go back downstairs to grab it (which is pretty much five out of seven nights), this is one of the gentler retinoids I keep in rotation. The texture is spot-onânot too watery, not heavyâand it absorbs instantly without any stickiness. It feels comfortable the second it hits skin and my I haven't experienced any irritation in the two weeks I've been using it.â âChrista Joanna Lee, contributing commerce writer
More to know
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- Key ingredients: rose PDRN, 0.1% retinal, Centella asiatica, peptides, ceramides, adenosine
- Fragrance-free: yes
Best for Acne: Skin1004 Madagascar Centella Probio-Cica Intensive Ampoule
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Skin1004
Madagascar Centella Probio-Cica Intensive Ampoule
Amazon
Ulta Beauty
Why we love it: Cica is one of the most popular ingredients in Korean skin-care products for several reasons. First and foremost, South Korea has high pollution levels, which cause skin sensitivity, and cica is known to be incredibly calming. Second, it's chock-full of amino acids, beta-carotene, fatty acids, and phytochemicals, including vitamins C, A, B1, and B2, lending itself to a long list of skin-enhancing benefits, like firming, hydrating, smoothing, and blemish fighting, according to Shari Marchbein, MD, a New York City-based board-certified dermatologist.
The Skin1004 Madagascar Centella Probio-Cica Intensive Ampoule takes the trending ingredient one step further with premium cica sourced from Madagascar and fermented to elevate its calming capacities and allow it to better heal breakouts and improve your skinâs moisture barrier function.
Allure contributing commerce editor Deanna Pai applying Skin 1004 Madagascar Centella Ampoule
Deanna Pai
Pai after applying Skin 1004 Madagascar Centella Ampoule
Deanna Pai
Tester feedback from contributing commerce editor Deanna Pai
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âThis soothed my breakout-prone skin and even seemed to take down the redness of an active zit. After applying this before bed, I woke up to brighter, clearer skin.â âDeanna Pai, contributing commerce editor
More to know
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- Key ingredients: fermented cica, cica, madecassic acid, asiaticoside, asiatic acid, ceramide NP
- Fragrance-free: yes
Best for Uneven Texture: Rejuran Turnover Ampoule
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Rejuran
Turnover Ampoule
Amazon
Why we love it: This PDRN-packed formula was created by the company behind Koreaâs most popular PDRN injectable by the same name, Rejuran. While no topical formula will deliver the same intensely rejuvenating, literally skin-deep benefits as the injectable, the Rejuran Turnover Ampoule is a great, more affordable option for those who are needle-shyâlike our tester. Plus, it's derm-backed. âIt's lightweight, and the PDRN helps with tissue elasticity and hydration,â Dr. David Kim attests. Unsurprisingly, hyaluronic acid steps in to boost hydration even further.
Rejuran actually offers two different formulas: the Turnover Ampoule and Dual Effect Ampoule. While both are formulated with 0.5% c-PDRN, a proprietary marine growth factor once only available via an injectable, the Dual Effect Ampoule is more focused on firming and reducing the look of fine lines. The Turnover Ampoule is better suited for general skin upkeep, meaning hydration and brightening.
Han applying Rejuran Turnover Ampoule
Sarah Han
Han after applying Rejuran Turnover Ampoule
Sarah Han
Tester feedback from commerce editor Han
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âIâm a little late on this K-beauty innovation, but itâs better late than never, right? Allure has been reporting on PDRN since 2019, and I finally got my hands on the most touted at-home PDRN formula. My face often looks bloated in the morning, but the more I use Rejuran Turnover Ampoule, the more lifted my skin looks. However subtle, itâs a win.â âHan, commerce editor
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- Key ingredients: C-PDRN (0.5%), adenosine, licorice root extract, blackberry leaf extract
- Fragrance-free: yes
Best for Dry Skin: CosRx The 6 Peptide Skin Booster Serum
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Cosrx
The 6 Peptide Skin Booster Serum
Amazon
Nordstrom
Ulta Beauty
Han applying the CosRx The 6 Peptide Skin Booster Serum
Sarah Han
Why we love it: When the CosRx 6 Peptide Skin Booster Serum first hit Ulta Beauty, it sold out in just nine days flatâsecuring its spot in the K-beauty hall of fame. This silky, lightweight serum delivers a potent hit of six peptides (including acetyl hexapeptide-8 and copper tripeptide-1) that work together to âsupport collagen production and elasticity,â says Dr. Chang. Niacinamide, adenosine, and sodium hyaluronate add radiance and hydration, while betaine and allantoin help calm and balance. âI love how this serum feels hydrating and helps smooth skin texture. The finish is dewy and plump without stickiness,â adds Dr. Chang. This glow-booster is great for early signs of aging or anyone with a dry, dull complexion.
Tester feedback from commerce editor Han
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âIâm obsessed with the texture. I use this as a toner, a.k.a. the first step after cleansing, and I like that itâs not wateryâmore like a lightweight gel serum. I pump the booster into my palms and gently glide/pat it in without losing any precious product. In the mornings, I follow up with an antioxidant serum, and then Iâll go straight into sunscreenâbecause the formulas I love are inherently hydrating, and thanks to this toner, Iâm loaded up on enough hydration to warrant skipping moisturizer. At nighttime, I like pairing it with a retinol serum to keep fine lines from creeping in and deepening.â âHan, commerce editor
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- Key ingredients: 6 peptides (including SH-Polypeptide-121, copper tripeptide-1, oligopeptide-68, and acetyl hexapeptide-8),niacinamide, sodium PCA
- Fragrance-free: yes
Best for Redness: Dr. Jart+ Cicapair Sensitive Skin Serum for Redness and Barrier Repair
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Dr. Jart+
Cicapair Intensive Soothing Repair Serum
Amazon
Sephora
Dall’Asen applying the Dr. Jart+ Cicapair Intensive Soothing Repair Serum
Nicola Dall'Asen
Why we love it: Dr. Jart+ gets its name from a portmanteau of âDr. Jung joins Art,â capturing the brandâs whole philosophy: pairing real dermatological science with a creative sensibility. The Cicapair Sensitive Skin Serum embodies that mixâitâs lightweight, soothing, and surprisingly powerful. Featuring Centella asiatica (a.k.a. tiger grass) and its calming friendsâasiaticoside, madecassic acid, and asiatic acidâplus palmitoyl tripeptide-8 to tone down visible redness, it strengthens your barrier and leaves skin hydrated with glycerin and allantoin. Over time, youâll get skin thatâs calmer, smoother, and way less reactive. âI recommend this for patients with extremely sensitive skin who experience redness after laser treatmentsâthey love how soothing and effective this Dr. Jart+ Cicapair serum is,â says Dr. Hee Jin Kim.
Tester feedback from DallâAsen
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âBecause I have rosacea on my cheeks, it's simply not enough for my serums to hydrate and hydrate onlyâmy delicate cherub face requires soothing and reparative properties, too. Whether I'm having a particularly bad flare-up or am just trying to ward off seasonal dryness, I pretty much always turn to Dr. Jart's Cicapair serum because of the magic ingredient it's named for: Cica. It's been used as a wound-healing salve for centuries in Ancient Chinese Medicine, and it's clear to see why, because every time I use this serum, my redness calms down, my dry spots disappear, and my entire face feels just a little more plump. In my eyes, it's not just a quick fix to bring life back to dry skin via hydration; it's more like a long-term strategy for making sure my skin never gets dry to begin with.â âNicola DallâAsen, senior news editor
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- Key ingredients: Centella asiatica, niacinamide, allantoin, glycerin, betaine, palmitoyl tripeptide-8
- Fragrance-free: yes
More Korean serums we love:
Best for Dull Skin: Celimax Pore+Dark Spot Brightening Serum
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Celimax
Pore+Dark Spot Brightening Serum
Amazon
Ulta Beauty
Why we love it: While Celimaxâs Pore+Dark Spot Brightening Serum doesnât rely on traditional exfoliating ingredients, like AHAs and BHAs, it still helps wake up dull, tired-looking skin using barrier-friendly brighteners like niacinamide and tranexamic acid. Rather than physically or chemically sloughing skin, the lightweight formula works to âeven tone, soften the look of dark spots, and bring back clarity over time,â making it a smart option if your skin looks flat but canât tolerate too much exfoliation, says Dr. David Kim. Hydrators like glycerin and sodium hyaluronate keep skin plump and comfortably dewy, so added radiance never comes at the cost of dryness. A distinctly K-beauty touch to this formula is loquat leaf extract, an ingredient often found in Korean skin care for its soothing, antioxidant benefits. Here, it helps calm stressed skin and support a clearer, more even-looking complexion.
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- Key ingredients: niacinamide, tranexamic acid, glycerin, sodium hyaluronate, loquat leaf extract
- Fragrance-free: yes
Best for Sensitive Skin: Anua Azelaic Acid 10 Hyaluron Redness Soothing Serum
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Anua
Azelaic Acid 10 Hyaluron Redness Soothing Serum
Amazon
Ulta Beauty
Why we love it: If youâve got sensitive skin, you know redness often comes with the territory, which is where azelaic acid really shines. It helps knock out acne-causing bacteria, gently loosen dead skin cells that clog pores, calm inflammation, and even tone, all without pushing easily irritated skin over the edge. Signature K-beauty calming ingredients do a lot of the heavy lifting here: a full Centella asiatica complex (including madecassoside and asiatic acid) helps dial down visible redness, while green tea leaf water supports stressed, reactive skin. Ceramides and squalane reinforce the skin barrier, keeping things comfortable as skin clears and brightens. âThis is a rare azelaic-based formula that tackles uneven skin tone while actively soothing and hydrating skin,â says Dr. Chang.
More to know
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- Key ingredients: azelaic acid, ceramides, squalane, Centella asiatica
- Fragrance-free: yes
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between serums and ampoules?
Ampoules are typically more concentrated and âdeliver results slightly faster than serums,â says Dr. David Kim. However, many Korean ampoules are starting to be labeled as serums these days to make them more approachable and accessible for American K-beauty lovers.
How do I incorporate Korean serums into my skin-care routine?
Like any serum, you should use these after putting on toner. Once you layer it on, you can reach for your favorite eye cream and moisturizer. âSerums have more active ingredients in higher concentration, and they are formulated to either brighten, hydrate, or calm the skin,â Dr. David Kim previously explained. âThen a moisturizer goes on top to lock in the moisture and to repair the skin barrier.â
Meet the experts
- Y. Claire Chang, MD, a board-certified cosmetic dermatologist at UnionDerm based in New York City
- David Kim, MD, is a board-certified dermatologist at Soho Derm and founder of Lightsaver based in New York City
- Hee Jin Kim, MD, a board-certified medical doctor and Medical Director of PureenMD based in Fort Lee, New Jersey
- Jennifer Levine, a board-certified plastic surgeon based in New York City
- Shari Marchbein, MD, is a board-certified dermatologist based in New York City
How we test and review products
When Allure tests a product, our editors look at it from every angle in an effort to best serve you. We review ingredients, scrutinize brand claims, and, when necessary, examine peer-reviewed scientific and medical studies. In addition to testing each and every product that's included in each and every review, we rely on experts who shape their fields, including dermatology, cosmetic chemistry, and medicine, to help us vet the ingredients and formulas.
For our list of the best Korean serums and ampoules, 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 contributorsâalong 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 editorsâin addition to the wide range of outside testers and industry experts we regularly call uponâis 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.
The Best Makeup for Moms Who Only Have 10 Minutes to Get Ready
Collage: Jemeria Davison / Images: Courtesy of Amazon and UltaSave this storySave this story
If youâre a mom, youâre probably familiar with doing a lot of things on the go: eating breakfast, firing off emails, scheduling doctorâs appointmentsâand yes, doing your makeup. Weâve mastered the art of lining our lips without a mirror, one hand on a stroller (what a flex). While I donât recommend doing a full face of makeup mid-chaos, we also know that 10 minutes at home is often all you have to get your âglamâ done before rushing out the door.
As a mom of two, on-camera beauty expert, and podcast cohost, Iâm intimately familiar with getting ready in a pinch (because letâs face itâIâm already late). And while Iâve gotten better at it over the yearsâthanks to plenty of practice, plus tips and tricks from my favorite makeup-artist friendsâthe products have gotten better, too. Itâs easier than ever to fake an almost full beat, thanks to a new generation of easy-to-apply, multitasking, and long-lasting makeup products designed for exactly this kind of time crunch. Here are the ones I rely on when I need to get camera-ready (whether for the news or a Zoom) in under 10 minutes.
Set it Up: Kelly Zhang Lifting & Firming Face Primer
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Kelly Zhang
Lifting & Firming Face Primer
Kelly Zhang
I donât love wearing a heavy moisturizer during the day, especially if Iâm layering makeup, but my skin still needs a little extra loveâparticularly after a sleepless night spent being held hostage by a tiny toddler. This Lifting & Firming Face Primer from Kelly Zhang is packed with peptides, soothing aloe, and brightening orange peel extract to help smooth, firm, and illuminate skin, all while creating an ideal base for makeup. Massage it in, and itâs almost as if your skin just did a quick Barryâs Bootcamp classâlifted, firmed, and ready to go in seconds.
Work of Art: m.ph by Mary Phillips Underpainting Face Highlight & Contour Palette
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m.ph by Mary Phillips
Underpainting Face Highlight & Contour Palette
Sephora
Contouring can feel intimidatingâand not necessarily like an everyday stepâbut Iâve found it makes a noticeable difference in how polished my makeup looks. Makeup artist Mary Phillips has a way of making it feel approachable, which might explain why she never skips this step on clients like Hailey Bieber and Kendall Jenner. This cream-based Underpainting Face Highlight & Contour Palette includes two contour shades, two highlighters, and a color-correcting shade, making it easy to customize your sculpt. I simply âpaintâ where I want definition, blend it out, and instantly look more defined.
Balm Dot Com: IT Cosmetics Do-It-All Sheer Tint Face Balm
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IT Cosmetics
Do-It-All Sheer Tint Face Balm
Ulta Beauty
This new skin-tint-meets-balm from IT Cosmetics has quickly become a staple in my routine, especially as a woman inching closer to her 40s. The lightweight formula wears like skin care (itâs infused with hyaluronic acid and collagen peptides) while delivering just the right amount of coverage for everyday wear, helping to blur redness, dark spots, and fine lines. The Do-It-All Sheer Tint Face Balm is sheer but buildable, and one of my favorite things about it is how easy it is to touch up throughout the day. I keep one in my purse so I can tap it on with my fingers as needed. It gives me a naturally glowy, radiant finish that tends to earn compliments wherever I go.
Focus on Me: Danessa Myricks Beauty Yummy Skin Blurring Balm Powder Flushed
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Danessa Myricks Beauty
Yummy Skin Blurring Balm Powder Flushed
Sephora
Leave it to Danessa Myricks (beauty mogul and busy mom herself) to create a truly multitasking cheek-and-lip product that brings instant life to the face. The Yummy Skin Blurring Balm Powder Flushed has a unique blurring texture, delivering a soft, Paris-filter effect on skin. This creamy balm-powder hybrid blends seamlessly, wears beautifully throughout the day, and comes in a range of flattering shades. Iâm especially drawn to Jubilee, a soft terracotta that works both as a blush and a lip.
Seeing the Light: Chanel Baume Essential
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Chanel
Baume Essential
Chanel
Nordstrom
Ulta Beauty
Chanelâs Baume Essential might be the longest-running product in my entire routineâand thereâs truly no highlighter quite like it. Itâs nothing like the blinding, stripey highlights of the 2016 era. Instead, it melts seamlessly into my complexion, looking elegant and natural while delivering just the right amount of glow exactly where I want it. Best of all, the stick format makes application effortless: You can swipe it directly onto the skin or tap it in with your fingertips. And while it is an investment, the stick lasts forever, making it well worth the splurge.
Take a B(r)ow: Colourpop Brow Boss Pencil + Boss 24HR Lifting Brow Gel
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Colourpop
Brow Boss Pencil
Amazon
Ulta Beauty
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Colourpop
Brow Boss 24HR Lifting Brow Gel
Amazon
Ulta Beauty
If thereâs one nonnegotiable in my routine, itâs brows that last all dayâthrough meetings, workouts, and right up until I wash my face. Brows frame the face, so itâs important that they stay put and, if I may borrow a bit of 2016 jargon, remain on fleek. ColourPopâs Brow Boss Pencil is thin and precise, making it easy to create natural, hair-like strokes, which I then lock in with the brandâs new brow gel. The result is fluffy, full brows that truly last all day, without any crunchiness or flaking. Itâs a truly winning combination.
Flick of the Wrist: Fenty Beauty Fine Linez Lash Line-Enhancing Eyeliner
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Fenty Beauty
Fine Linez Lash Line-Enhancing Eyeliner
Ulta Beauty
Sephora
I donât love a lot of drama on my eyes during the day, but a touch of eyeliner and a subtle wing instantly makes me look more awake and feel a little cuter, too. Fenty Beautyâs Fine Linez Lash Line-Enhancing Eyeliner is my recent go-to. The gel formula is perfect for tightlining my waterline and adding a precise flick. Once it sets, it truly doesnât budge, so youâll want to work quickly if you plan to clean up or sharpen the wing using the other end of the pencil. I love the black (Cuz Iâm Black) and brown (In Big Truffle) shades, but if you like to play with color, the navy (The Navy) and burgundy (Riri) can add the perfect subtle pop.
Multitasking Wand: DIBS Double Standard Primer & Mascara Duo
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DIBS Beauty
Double Standard Primer & Mascara Duo
Ulta Beauty
Dibs Beauty
Full disclosure: I donât wear mascara. Iâm a lash-extension apologist and firmly believe theyâre a high-maintenance investment that ultimately makes life low-maintenance. But if mascara is more your speed, this mascara is one I consistently recommend. The duo pairs a lengthening tubing brown primer with a volumizing black mascara, which is what makes it so good. My podcast cohost and work wife Kirbie Johnson is a true mascara pro and swears by this formula, especially the brown primer, which many people love wearing on its own for a softer, more natural lash look. Together, the combo adds length and volume, builds easily from everyday to full glam, and stays flake-free and smudge-proof. If I ever gave up my extensions, Iâd go straight to this.
Just a Tint: Summer Fridays Flushed Lip Stain Slipper
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Summer Fridays
Flushed Lip Stain Slipper
Sephora
Summer Fridays
Even with a full face of makeup, I feel incomplete without a lip, which is why I gravitate toward formulas that last as long as possible between reapplications. Summer Fridays has long dominated the lip balm category, so a lip stain felt like a natural next step. The Flushed Lip Stain Slipper comes in a felt-tip marker, making it easy to outline, fill in, or fully customize your lip shape. What sets it apart is that it isnât drying like many stains Iâve tried, thanks to soothing ingredients like aloe vera gel and panthenol. Itâs lightweight and buildable, and once it sets, itâs completely transfer-proof for hoursâIâve tested it after eating and even showering. While every shade is great, Iâm especially partial to Rosette (cool pink) and Mocha (deep neutral brown). I finish with one of the lip balm glosses I keep in my purse, and Iâm good to go.
Set and Go: Saie CitySet Setting Spray
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Saie
CitySet Setting Spray
Sephora
Saie
Thereâs nothing more frustrating than spending time on your makeup only to have it disappear a few hours later. I need insurance, especially when Iâm chasing after two kids. Saieâs CitySet Setting Spray is my go-to everyday setting spray. Itâs alcohol-free and formulated with hydrolyzed corn starch, which helps lock makeup in place without that stiff, traditional setting-spray feel. The mist is incredibly fine, and I often reach for it throughout the day to refresh my skin as well. With wear claims of up to 16 hours, it lasts exactly as long as I need my makeup to holdâthrough school pickup, errands, workouts, and bedtime routinesâbefore I finally wash my face at night.