Category: HEALTHY-NUTRITION

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Everyone has a hairstyle that they loved back in the day and never thought would come back in style. Mine is pick-and-drop braids, a style that involves micro base braids at the crown of the end that hang three inches and then cascade into loose waves or bouncy curls. It-Girls at the time, like Beyoncé and Brandy, popularized the style, while stars such as Chase Infiniti and Jordyn Woods keep the style in the spotlight—with a modern twist, of course.

Much like pick-and-drop braids of the past, the 2026 version starts with a base of braids. The length, however, is even longer and the braids blended more seamlessly into the loose hair at the ends. They're also more frequently created using human hair, which can be "more versatile and less harsh for this style," says Los Angeles-based hairstylist Larry Sims. In the '90s, braiders primarily used synthetic hair, mainly because that’s what was widely available, but which came with its fair share of knotting and matting.

Those aren't the only updates that make boho braids feel fresh and more covetable than ever. Some hairstylists place traditional sew-in or tape-in extensions at the back of the head to create a fuller look, and add knotless micro braids along the hairline using braiding hair, which is what hairstylist Coree Moreno did to create Chase Infiniti's gorgeous boho braid style for the 2026 Oscars.

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There's also a popular new method for creating boho braids, called miracle knots, that makes achieving the style easier than before. The technique involves swapping the traditional knotless feed-in technique for a crochet method. TikTok video after TikTok video of this hack show people effortlessly transforming mini braids into soft, cascading curls without stepping foot into the salon.

It's often hard to pinpoint when we all started obsessing over boho braids again, but many stylists point to Zoë Kravitz as inspiration—some even refer to the effortless-looking style “Zoe Kravitz braids.”

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Bicoastal travel braider Shanna St. Cyr says boho braids are her most requested style lately, in both New York and Los Angeles. The reason she thinks it's so popular among her clients: "You can get a weave look without an actual weave install." That cuts down on cost and allows you to experiment with various hairstyles that would be otherwise difficult to wear with a weave. Below, discover more on how the style has evolved and what to know if you plan on trying boho braids for yourself.

Meet the Experts:

• Larry Sims is a Los Angeles-based hairstylist and the co-founder of Flawless by Gabrielle Union
• Jacinta Rutana is London-based hairstylist and braider
• Shanna St. Cyr of Tropix Braids is a travel braider who works in Los Angeles and New York City

How Boho Braids Are Different From Pick-and-Drop Braids

Boho braids take the foundation of pick-and-drop braids and elevate the style. The biggest change: the length of the base braids. Pick-and-drop braids were usually about three inches long, with loose waves or curls at the ends of the braids. The idea was to have the braids hidden at the crown of the head, creating the illusion that the hair was growing out of the scalp. Boho braids, on the other hand, put more emphasis on the braids rather than trying to hide them. The loose curls are incorporated throughout the braids at different lengths, which makes for an even blend of braids and tendrils.

Boho braids also mainly use human hair whereas pick-and-drop featured synthetic hair (that's that was primarily available in the '90s). These braids are one of the most popular ways to get flowing hair extensions that look natural.

Human hair extensions help create a more natural look and make boho braids more versatile, letting you use heat—there is also less matting, says Sims. If you're partial to synthetic hair, Jacinta Rutana, a London-based hairstylist and braider says you can still use it, but it works best in just the braids, and not the loose hair.

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What to Know Before You Get Boho Braids

Rutana explains that the look requires a high skill level: "I use a knotless technique, so it's easy on your natural hair to ensure there’s not as much breakage," she explains, which isn't easy to do on yourself. Working with human hair (which is recommended for this style) "can be challenging due to the softer texture of the hair which makes it hard to grip," says Rutana. TikTok hacks, like miracle knots (which use the more user-friendly crochet method), make this look more accessible and easier to achieve at home—though if you're a novice when it comes to braiding, the salon is still your best bet.

It's best to consult with your stylist to establish if they will provide the hair or if you need to source it ahead of your appointment. Many salons don't provide hair extensions, so oftentimes, you'll need to visit your local beauty supply store ahead of time. Stylists can usually advise on what hair to buy. Moreno used Bellami Clip-Ins on Chase Infiniti's boho braids for the Oscars, while St. Cyr recommends YWigs Loose Human Braiding Hair.

Plan to arrive at your appointment with washed and blow-dried hair. Some stylists offer this service but if it's unavailable, a simple shampoo to cleanse your hair and scalp, followed by a conditioning treatment to moisturize, and a thorough blow dry is all you need.

How to Maintain Boho Braids

The loose strands in boho braids are prone to get tangled so properly maintaining the hair will prolong it's wear. First, spray the braids with a mixture of water and leave-in conditioner in a spray bottle at least once a week and brush the hair to refresh the curls.

“The secret to flawless boho braids is the right brush,” says Moreno, a hairstylist in Los Angeles who created elegant boho braids on actor Chase Infiniti for the 2026 Oscars. Moreno used the Arachne Smooth Boost brush to “add volume and smooth out imperfections without snagging the braid base,” he shared on Instagram.

You can also brush the hair daily without misting it, instead using a lightweight oil or serum to keep frizz at bay. I love using the Sheamoisture Coconut Hibiscus Smooth and Shine Oil when I have boho braids. The silk texture tames any flyaways without weighing the hair down. Plus, it adds a slight sheen that make the braids look good as new.

Additionally, it’s important to wrap your hair with a scarf and sleep in a bonnet to preserve the style. To keep the style looking its best, Runata recommends a touch-up after four weeks.

The Average Cost of Boho Braids

The overall cost ranges from $300 to $600, on average. There are three main factors: the location of your salon, the price of the hair extensions, and how long and thick you want the braids. To give you an idea, St. Cyr charges $695 for small boho braids with hair included and $485 for the same style in medium width. Most salons and braiders have a standard length (usually falling right above the tailbone), so if you want braids any longer than that, chances are you’ll be paying extra.

The price is steep, but the braids do last when they are done well. Runtata says her clients keep the style in for about six to eight weeks depending on their hair type and if the extensions are reusable.

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With winged liner as sharp as her wit and contour as lethal as her comebacks, Maura Higgins has long been a beauty inspiration to the Irish and the Brits following her stint on Love Island. Now, after her recent turn on The Traitors, the Irish reality star’s hair and makeup is attracting the attention of fans here in the US. And what have we noticed? During her post-Traitors press run, she's started to switch things up in the blush department in the most interesting way.

We spotted it when Higgins hosted the red carpet for the premiere of A24’s latest film, The Drama, starring Zendaya and Robert Pattinson. Her blush is significantly higher and seems to be placed underneath her eyes, creating an especially snatched look (as if Higgins needed any more snatching). When we dug a little deeper, we noticed it’s something she’s been playing with a lot recently, working with makeup artist Patrick Ta who is long known for his love of blush and his unconventional application approach.

LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA – MARCH 17: Maura Higgins arrives at the Los Angeles Premiere Of A24’s "The Drama" at DGA Theater Complex on March 17, 2026 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Steve Granitz/FilmMagic)

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Under eye blush, which starts (you guessed it) under the eyes and extends to high points of the face, isn’t a new technique. When used under the eye and swept out towards the temples, it “sculpts and accentuates the highest points of the mid-face,” says makeup artist Andrew Denton. “The proximity to the eye adds width to the upper cheek due to the high placement, and that connection between the outer eye and the highest part of the cheekbone creates a lot of lift,” he adds.

Not only that, it can counteract darkness under the eyes, too. "If you’ve used color-correcting concealer, adding a pink-y powder blush on top will not only help set the concealer, but will also help neutralize any blue tones your concealer is struggling to tackle,” Denton says. This technique has inspired many brands to develop pink-toned setting powders, including the One Size Ultimate Blurring Setting Powder, Kosas Cloud Set Baked Setting & Smoothing Powder, and the Catrice Bright and Blur Setting Powder, all of which are Allure editor love and use.

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In a recent GRWM video, Ta demonstrated his layered blush approach on Higgins—and we took notes. He begins with a liquid blush in a bubblegum-pink shade (perhaps a new launch for Patrick Ta Beauty?), placing it directly on the middle of her under eyes and blending out with a fluffy brush. He follows this with liquid concealer applied along the inner and mid under-eye areas, avoiding the outer area to allow the blush underneath to peek through (he used his Major Skin Soft Blur Brightening Concealer, but we also love the Armani Beauty Perfect Glow Concealer, which won a Best of Beauty Award last year) . Next, Ta uses translucent loose powder to set the liquids and creams, which he then tops with his Major Headlines Double-Take Crème & Powder Blush Duos in She's Seductive and She's a Doll.

“I used here is my Transition Blush Technique, which is all about creating a seamless gradient so the blush melts into the skin rather than sitting on top of the makeup,” Ta explains. “It’s perfect for anyone who feels like their blush can look patchy or disconnected from the rest of the face.”

It’s a look that can be easily adapted for everyday wear. Denton notes that it's a helpful technique for days when you feel tired and “want to appear lifted, bright, and energized.” He recommends sticking to a blush shade you’re confident with, keeping placement lifted and high on the face, and never covering your entire under-eye area with blush, as this can draw the eye down when incorrectly placed.

As for Higgins, after experimenting with Ta, she appears to be a convert. The star has worn under-eye blush four or five times since, so it seems that she's staying 100% faithful to this clever little blush hack … for now.

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No matter what time of year it is, beach waves never really go out of style. That's why the best hair wavers are such a handy tool to have around, especially when you don’t have the patience (or wrist strength) to wrap tiny sections of hair around a curling iron for half an hour. Instead, these double- or triple-barrel tools do the heavy lifting for you, pressing hair into soft, uniform S-shaped waves with just a few clamps down the length of your hair. Whether you're going for loose, mermaid-like bends, a nostalgic ‘90s supermodel crimp, or bold waves that look like you just stepped off the beach (minus the salt and sand), we've got you. Our editors have tested tons of tools—alongside expert recommendations—to find the hair wavers that make getting glossy, tousled texture almost too easy.

Our Top Hair Wavers

• Best Overall: GHD Wave, $199
• Best for Beginners: Mermade 1.25” Original Pro Waver, $79
• Best for Frizzy Hair: Trademark Beauty Babe Waves X, $89
• Best for Short Hair: Wavytalk Cool Curl Pencil, $59

Frequently Asked QuestionsAccordionItemContainerButtonLargeChevron

• What’s the difference between a hair waver and a hair curler?
• How do you use a hair waver?
• Meet the experts
• How we test and review products
• Our staff and testers

Best Overall: GHD Wave

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GHD

Wave

$199

Amazon

$199

Nordstrom

$199

Ulta Beauty

Allure senior beauty editor Jesa Marie Calaor using the GHD Wave

Jesa Marie Calaor

Why we love it: Three-barrel hot tools can look a little intimidating—and sometimes feel top-heavy enough to make you worry about bumping your forehead mid-style. The GHD Wave, a 2025 Allure Best of Beauty Award winner, proves that a chunky tool doesn’t have to be awkward to use. Despite its size, it’s surprisingly lightweight (just 1.24 pounds), and the curved edges help keep it balanced in your hand, making it easier to maneuver than it looks.

During testing, editors found that the three 1.25” barrels help move through longer hair quickly, creating glossy, mermaid-like waves across the entire head in about 15 minutes or less. Like other GHD hair tools, the Wave is designed with numerous tiny sensors embedded throughout its ceramic plates that constantly monitor the temperature to ensure it never exceeds 365°F, which is the brand’s signature styling sweet spot. “So many beach wavers and curlers claim no damage but don't get the hair hot enough, so the curls don't last,” says Rob Milner, GHD’s head of research and development. “GHD has proven in our research that 365°F is the optimal temperature for styling hair—hot enough so the curl holds, cool enough so it doesn't damage the hair strand.”

Calaor before using the GHD Wave

Jesa Marie Calaor

Calaor after using the GHD Wave

Jesa Marie Calaor

Tester feedback from senior beauty editor Jesa Marie Calaor

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“This waver looks like a giant crimper from the early 2000s, creating extra-cool S-waves without the smell of burnt hair. It’s also lightweight compared to other wavers and easy to maneuver close to the scalp." —Jesa Marie Calaor, senior beauty editor

More to know

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• Barrel width: 1.25”
• Heat settings: 1
• Attachments: none
• Weight: 1.25 lbs
• Wattage: N/A
• Automatic shutoff: yes
• Best for: all hair types, especially medium and long hair

Best Adjustable: L’ange VersaWaver

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L'Ange

VersaWaver

$79

Amazon

$99

Ulta Beauty

Allure contributing commerce writer Christa Joanna Lee using the L’ange VersaWaver

Christa Joanna Lee

Why we love it: Some days you want loose, shiny waves; other days you’re in the mood for a little more texture. That’s where the L’ange VersaWaver shows its versatility. With a quick twist of the barrel’s tip (it stays cool for easy handling), you can toggle between 0.75” waves for tight, defined texture or 1.25” deep waves for soft, bouncier volume, so you can change your look without needing a second hot tool.

The titanium plates heat evenly to help waves hold their shape and offer four heat settings (290°F to 410°F) so you can tailor the temperature to your hair type. Bonus points for the thoughtful extras: a heat-resistant glove and mat to keep both your hands and your countertop safe.

Lee before using the L’ange VersaWave

Christa Joanna Le

Lee after using the L’ange VersaWave

Christa Joanna Lee

Tester feedback from contributing commerce writer Christa Joanna Lee

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“I always assumed the only way to get those loose, bendy waves—the kind that look like you slept in braids overnight—was, uh, actually sleeping in braids for eight hours. The L’ange VersaWaver couldn’t be easier to use (and a lot faster to create a full look). I have a lot of hair, and it’s pretty long, so styling my entire head still took about 25 minutes. I stuck with the third-highest heat setting since my hair is thick, and the waves held up really well. There was a tiny bit of frizz, but nothing a drop of my favorite hair oil couldn’t smooth out. The cool-tip barrel makes switching sizes easy, though I still used the included glove to flip it to the larger side (better safe than sorry!). I also appreciate the heat-resistant mat, which cleverly doubles as a carrying case, so you don’t have to wait for the tool to cool completely before packing it away.” —Christa Joanna Lee, contributing commerce writer

More to know

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• Barrel widths: 0.75” and 1.25”
• Heat settings: 4
• Attachments: none
• Weight: 1.14 lbs
• Wattage: N/A
• Automatic shutoff: yes
• Best for: all hair types

Best for Frizzy Hair: Trademark Beauty Babe Waves X

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Trademark Beauty

Babe Waves X

$89 $74 (17% off)

Amazon

Allure commerce writer Lily Wohlner using the Trademark Beauty Babe Waves X

Lily Wohlner

Why we love it: Hot tools can sometimes leave hair looking a little frizzy—the combination of high temperatures and dry strands can cause the cuticle (the outer layer of the hair) to lift, making it easier for humidity to sneak in. The Trademark Beauty Babe Waves X, a 2023 Best of Beauty Award winner, helps keep that in check while still delivering the textured waves it’s known for.

This styler has two barrels, making it especially great for short- to medium-length hair. The closer-set barrels create a slightly tighter, more crimped wave—think breezy, tousled texture rather than loose mermaid bends. This one also has multiple temperature settings, so you can dial things up or down to help you customize your waves depending on your hair texture: 320°F to 350°F works well for fine or color-treated hair, around 390°F for medium to thick textures, and up to 430°F for coarse or hard-to-wave strands.

And thanks to even heat distribution across both barrels, every section comes out with uniform waves. What really helps keep frizz in check, though, is the tourmaline ceramic barrels and ionic technology. As it heats up, it releases negative ions that help smooth strands and boost shine as you style, keeping flyaways and frizz under control.

Wohlner before using the Trademark Beauty Babe Waves X

Lily Wohlner

Wohlner after using the Trademark Beauty Babe Waves X

Lily Wohlner

Tester feedback from commerce writer Lily Wohlner

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“I’d never used a hair waver before this Trademark Beauty one, but I’m officially a convert. It gives me super natural waves that don’t look like I forced them with a heat styler—I’m a total sucker for that ‘I didn’t even try’ tousled vibe. It took all of five minutes to style my whole head, starting from bed head and ending with long, lightly crimped waves that lasted all day without any touch-ups. Plus, my hair looked silky and felt soft afterward, which doesn’t always happen with a traditional curling iron.” —Lily Wohlner, commerce writer

More to know

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• Barrel width: 4.75” (two 1.25” barrels)
• Heat settings: 4
• Attachments: none
• Weight: 1.7 lbs
• Wattage: 103–110W
• Automatic shutoff: no
• Best for: all hair types, especially short to medium hair

Best for Short Hair: Wavytalk Cool Curl Pencil

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Wavytalk

Cool Curl Pencil

$59 $48 (19% off)

Amazon

$59

Wavytalk

Allure senior commerce editor Sarah Felbin using the Wavytalk Cool Curl Pencil

Sarah Felbin

Why we love it: While it’s technically more of a curling iron than a traditional waver, Wavytalk's Cool Curl Pencil is one of the few tools that actually gave our tester with a bob the waves she wanted. Most wavers are simply too bulky to get close enough to shorter lengths, but this lightweight, slim styler makes adding texture to a cropped cut surprisingly easy. The 0.65” barrel is narrow enough that styling your whole head doesn’t feel like wrestling with a giant hot tool, and the flat interior plates mean you can straighten sections, too—making it a multitasker for curling, waving, or smoothing. It also has five heat settings (the most of any tool on this list), which is especially helpful if you have fine hair or bangs, like our tester, who kept things on a lower temp for those delicate pieces.

What really sets it apart, though, is its cooling system: 104 tiny air vents release 360-degree airflow in three adjustable settings to help set your style and limit heat exposure. Sure, you’ll need to do a little wrist work to create waves since there aren’t built-in barrels—but when one tool can curl, wave, and straighten, we’re not complaining.

Felbin before using the Wavytalk Cool Curl Pencil

Sarah Felbin

Felbin after using the Wavytalk Cool Curl Pencil

Sarah Felbin

Tester feedback from senior commerce editor Sarah Felbin

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"Finally, a hot tool that's designed for bobs and pixie cuts! I used to constantly burn my hands trying to style my bob with wide flat irons. But the Cool Curl Pencil has tiny plates that make it easy to tame my bangs or flip my ends. And if I'm trying to switch my (usually straight) look up, I can use it to curl my whole head for waves that take only a few minutes. Bonus: Cool air comes out the sides of the iron to set your style as you go (no hairspray required). And, while the barrel doesn't get too hot to hold, a heat-blocking glove is also included for safety." —Sarah Felbin, senior commerce editor

More to know

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• Barrel width: 0.65”
• Heat settings: 5
• Attachments: none
• Weight: 0.95 lbs
• Wattage: 46W
• Automatic shutoff: no
• Best for: all hair types, especially short

Best for Beginners: Mermade 1.25” Original Pro Waver

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Mermade

1.25” Original Pro Waver

$79

Nordstrom

$79

Revolve

Why we love it: While most hair wavers are fairly intuitive and beginner-friendly, the Mermade 1.25” Original Pro Waver stands out for being especially easy to handle. New York City-based hairstylist Vanessa Ocando calls it her favorite hair waver because “it’s incredibly easy for the everyday person to use and it works beautifully on every hair texture.”

Even though it’s one of the heavier tools on this list (2.2 pounds), the design helps offset that by providing multiple grip points. You can hold it by the handle or steady it from the top, which makes it easier to maneuver and gives you more control as you clamp down each section. It also features anti-scald plates that heat up on the inside but stay cool on the outside, so you’re extra in the clear.

If you’re a beginner, it’s also refreshingly quick to style with, as you only need to clamp each section for three to five seconds to create defined waves. Plus, the barrels are made from ionic ceramic plates that help eliminate frizz and boost shine. The original waver has 1.25” barrels, but there’s also a 1” option if you prefer tighter waves.

More to know

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• Barrel width: 1.25”
• Heat settings: 4
• Attachments: none
• Weight: 2.2 lbs
• Wattage: N/A
• Automatic shutoff: yes
• Best for: all hair types, especially long

Best Interchangeable: DryBar The Mixologist Interchangeable Styling Iron

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Drybar

The Mixologist Interchangeable Styling Iron

$199 $169 (15% off)

Amazon

$199

Ulta Beauty

Why we love it: If your hair mood changes as often as your outfit, DryBar’s The Mixologist Interchangeable Styling Iron makes it easy to switch things up without having to round up a small army of hot tools. It comes with three interchangeable attachments that snap easily into the handle: a triple-barrel waver for loose bends, a curling wand for softer spirals, and a classic curling iron for more polished curls. In other words, you can go from beachy waves to bouncy curls without reaching for a different tool. Each attachment features infrared technology that evenly distributes heat, warming hair from the inside out for less damage and more silky shine. The ceramic barrel and ionic technology keep strands frizz-free, so your finished style looks glossy. If you can’t make it to one of Drybar’s blowout bars, consider this the next best thing.

More to know

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• Barrel width: 0.75” (three-barrel waver), 1” (curling wand), 1.25” (curling iron)
• Heat settings: customizable up to 450°F
• Attachments: 3 (three-barrel waver, curling wand, curling iron with a clamp)
• Weight: N/A
• Wattage: N/A
• Automatic shutoff: yes
• Best for: all hair types

Best for Definition: BaByliss Pro Porcelain Ceramic Triple Barrel Waver

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BabylissPRO

Porcelain Ceramic Triple Barrel Waver

$80

Amazon

$80

Ulta Beauty

Why we love it: If you’re after a more natural-looking, defined wave, New York City-based hairstylist Marc Ballance recommends the Babyliss Pro Porcelain Ceramic Triple Barrel Waver. The unique barrel design features two larger 1” barrels with a slightly smaller 0.75” barrel in the center, which helps create deeper, more sculpted waves. The variation in barrel sizes adds dimension to the pattern, while the deep wave shape presses a more pronounced bend into the hair, so the style holds its structure without looking stiff or overly uniform.

The tool also offers 25 heat settings up to 430°F, so you can dial in exactly what your hair needs (lower heat for finer hair or higher heat for coarser textures). The porcelain ceramic barrels distribute heat evenly to minimize hot spots while smoothing the cuticle for shinier, more consistent waves from root to ends.

More to know

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• Barrel widths: two 1” barrels, one 0.75” barrel
• Heat settings: 25
• Attachments: 1
• Weight: 1.79 lbs
• Wattage: N/A
• Automatic shutoff: no
• Best for: all hair types

Frequently Asked Questions

What’s the difference between a hair waver and a hair curler?

Ocando says that a curler has a single barrel (you know, your classic one-inch curling iron) and a waver has multiple barrels to create an “S” wave pattern instead of ringlets or a traditional curl. Ballance adds that wavers are better if you want your hairstyle to look beachy and intentionally undone.

How do you use a hair waver?

Always start with a heat protectant, no matter what hair look you’re going for. Once your hair is prepped, Ballance says it’s all about the clamping technique. “Take a small section of hair and clamp the waver down, so the barrels can shape the hair shaft into an 'S' wave,” he says. From there, work your way down from root to ends, overlapping slightly as you go, so the waves connect seamlessly.

Ocando advises looking for a waver with adjustable temperature settings, ceramic or ionic barrels, and a grip on the top of the tool, which gives you better control while styling. A bonus is that it stays cool on the outside during use, which makes the experience safer and more comfortable.

Meet the experts

• Marc Ballance is a New York City-based hairstylist.
• Vanessa Ocando is a New York City-based hairstylist and certified trichologist.

How we test and review products

We always enlist a range of testers for any review, but hair-care products and tools are another story. While some can be used across different hair textures, lengths, curl patterns, thicknesses, colors (natural and unnatural), and concerns, many are created with specific consumers and their needs in mind. When reviewing tools, we also take into account testers’ experience levels. For instance, an innovative new blow-dryer may feature industry-leading technology, but if the only people who find it intuitive to use are professional hairstylists, we have to consider this when determining whether it is worthy of a recommendation.

For our review of the best hair wavers, we enlisted the help of multiple editors, writers, contributors, and experts you interviewed for the piece—who all have different hair concerns and types, desired outcome (i.e., want shinier hair), and whether one product was tested across multiple hair types (i.e., straight, wavy, and curly hair). Testers considered performance across three primary categories: efficacy, safety and ease of use, value. For more on what's involved in our reporting, check out our complete reviews process and methodology page.

Our staff and testers

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

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

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Nothing says easy elegance quite like a French manicure. It goes with absolutely everything, from casual looks to formalwear. After a little early-2000s time on a downswing, the combo of a pink, translucent base and white tips has become a beautiful no-brainer for so many of us. But when you want the concept of a French manicure but with a little more edge, nothing balances sophistication and subversion quite like swapping in black tips—just like Demi Lovato did.

Lovato made an appearance on The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon, promoting her new book, One Plate at a Time: Recipes for Finding Freedom with Food, and her tour, It's Not That Deep. Yeah, she's definitely been keeping busy. But she always makes time to sit down with nail artist Natalie Minerva, most recently to get a black-tipped French manicure.

Photo: Getty Images

“For Demi’s black French, we did a base color combination, or what I call ‘nail foundation,’” Minerva tells Allure, explaining that she can customize the hue with two shades of polish for a more seamless look. “I used one coat of OPI Bare My Soul, which is a lighter-toned milky nude, and one coat of Put It in Airplane Mode to give it a warmer hue. This made the base feel more accurately matched to her skin tone.”

From there, Minerva switched to one of the most iconic black polishes on the market. “I used OPI Black Onyx to create a medium-thickness French that matched the free edge of her round-shaped natural nails.”

While it may not be the most out-there option when it comes to nail art, it absolutely makes a major impact when you choose a color other than white for French tips—especially a bold black in contrast to a traditional pinky-nude base. It's basically “do no harm, but take no shit” in manicure form.

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Keke Palmer and I grew up together—at least in my mind. Saturday afternoons, I’d curl up on the couch with a snack to watch True Jackson, VP, the Nickelodeon series where a then–18-year-old Palmer played the effortlessly cool teen running a fashion company. The show aired in 2011, the same year I turned 12, and Palmer felt like a big sister living inside my TV. Over the years, I watched her evolve on screen, going from a sassy teen to a busy actor starring in films like One of Them Days and Nope. All the while, I was growing up too. So when we spoke recently over Zoom, the conversation felt surprisingly sentimental, as we bonded over washing our toddlers’ hair and figuring out how to set aside a little time for ourselves as working moms.

That sense of nostalgia deepened as we talked about her new partnership with Creme of Nature, for which she now serves as chief brand officer. For many Black girls, “we grew up using Creme of Nature,” says Palmer. The brand was a wash-day staple—something you’d almost always find in the bathroom cabinet. For Palmer, the partnership felt like a natural fit: both she and the brand are “OGs,” and helping usher Creme of Nature into “a more modern phase” reflects just how much she’s evolved in her own career.

These days, Palmer, 32, is embracing a new chapter—one that centers authenticity and flexibility in every area of her life. Fittingly, it comes with a new-ish hair moment: a spunky pixie cut that the actor debuted in August 2025. Ahead, she opens up about the big chop, her decision to go back to a relaxer, and the beauty rituals she’s now passing down to her toddler.

Allure: You’ve had your pixie for about seven months now. What inspired the bold chop?

Keke Palmer: For the past year or so, I’ve just been doing everything to my hair—especially with having the Creme of Nature products at my will—while also trying to keep it healthy with the color, and just keep a consistent hair care routine. And then I hit a moment where I became tired of maintaining my hair. I wanted something that matches the pace of my life.

I don't want to be bald yet. So the pixie lets me keep the flavor, style, funk, but at the same time, I can keep up with it day to day. Right now, I have this kind of boy band type of thing going on that I'm living for, where the ends are just spiked. I'm just having a ball with that.

Allure: How do you maintain the look?

Palmer: I get the sides and back cut every two weeks. I let the top grow out and get a refresher on my relaxer every four weeks.

I know a lot of people feel like the pixie is difficult, but if you have a good foam, some good edge control to add up in there and give it texture, and you're not afraid of letting some of your texture shine through, then you can enjoy your pixie cut and not be afraid to touch it. You also can get tons of build up so I do really love using the scalp wipes on my edges and the back of my hair.

Allure: Why did you decide to get a relaxer again, and what was that experience like for you?

Palmer: I've gone through the whole natural hair thing. I was doing that all last year, where I was really wanting to wear my ‘fro, especially after I did Nope. I was just flexing the natural look and playing with my hair in its most natural state. And I really did enjoy that. And then I decided I want to be flexible with something else, and I don't want to be chained to anything.

I want to be able to just be me. Right now, I'm India Arie. Tomorrow, I'm this. The next day, I'm that. It’s about freedom and flexibility. I'm here for women being able to do what they want. I think a lot of times, as a Black woman, the world is constantly telling you what you need to do and how you need to look to be beautiful, and I felt the weight of that earlier this year.

I was constantly wearing wigs, always having my edges glued down, and I was getting tired of that. Now, I’m leaning towards effortlessness, and that came in the form of a pixie cut and a relaxer. I don't want to flex long hair right now. I want to flex my face and my energy. I want people to see my whole vibe when I walk into the room.

Allure: How do you decide exactly what version of Keke you want to be on any given day?

Palmer: I base it on what I'm trying to say or evoke. I also let what I’m working on guide me. Whether I'm doing something that involves music, my personality, a photoshoot where I'm being more sexy, or whatever the case may be. I let that guide me. I also like to collaborate with the stylist I'm working with and get playful with it.

I think right now, my overall vibe is very focused on being free and being precise and authentic. And I think that's why I've been leaning so much into the pixie cut, because I think there's nothing that's more precise or has to be as accurate as a cut. It also feels freeing, because I'm not bound by the idea of what it means to have long hair.

Allure: What beauty and grooming traditions are you excited to pass down to your son?

Palmer: I love when we get our hair time, whether it's him getting it done by his hairstylist or me doing it. I just love it because it also makes him feel good to know that he's being taken care of. His routine is everything. And I think that's important, not just for babies, but for moms too, to have that moment of self-care with our hair. So I’ve definitely passed down that ritual of washing, conditioning, and protective styles.

He goes in and out of braids and then his ‘fro. I just use the same products I’m using myself, on him. But teaching him how to keep that hair scarf on is a freaking whole journey. He doesn't want to keep that on, girl. I need a baby durag line fast.

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The Food & Drug Administration is scrapping a proposed rule that would ban American teenagers under 18 from using tanning beds. The rule, which was first proposed in 2015, aimed to restrict indoor tanning for minors for one very obvious reason: The UV light that these beds emit in high doses has been long-proven to cause skin cancer.

A spokesperson for the FDA told Allure in a statement that the agency withdrew the proposal “in order to reconsider the best means for addressing the issues covered by the Proposed Rule and related issues regarding access to sunlamp products.” Its decision came after the agency received more than 8,100 comments on the proposal—comments that they say ranged from “the dangers of UV radiation from sunlamp products” and the “vulnerability of young people to the risks of sunlamp products” to “support for personal choice and parental decision-making; availability” and “compliance burdens on small businesses.”

The notice of the withdrawal was signed by Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr., who is known to frequent indoor tanning salons himself. (When asked by The Atlantic a few months ago how he squares his tanning and nicotine habits with his day job, Kennedy replied, “I’m not telling people that they should do anything that I do. I just say ‘Get in shape.’”)

In its statement, the FDA acknowledges the scientific link between tanning beds and skin cancer. “Withdrawal of the proposed restrictions does not mean that exposure to UV radiation does not cause skin cancer. It is well established that exposure to UV radiation (including through sunlamp products) can lead to skin cancer,” the statement reads. Despite this, they encourage “users of sunlamp products to discuss the potential risks with their physician before using sunlamp products”—a statement that ignores the fact that the risks are not potential. They’re confirmed by science.

Tanning beds—like tobacco, formaldehyde, and asbestos—are classified as a group 1 carcinogen by the World Health Organization's International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC). And that's a message that many, many board-certified dermatologists have hammered home for Allure and our readers over the last three decades: Using tanning beds dramatically ups the likelihood of a skin cancer diagnosis. Full stop. These same dermatologists and health professionals now worry that the FDA's withdrawal of this proposed tanning bed restriction sends a confusing message to minors and their parents. Susan C. Taylor, MD, FAAD, and president of the American Academy of Dermatology, released a statement this week saying that the organization was “disappointed.”

“Exposure to UV radiation from indoor tanning devices is associated with an increased risk of melanoma, as well as non-melanoma skin cancers, including squamous cell carcinoma and basal cell carcinoma,” says Dr. Taylor. Part of what makes tanning beds so dangerous is that “they emit mostly UVA radiation and filter out the UVB that will burn you more readily—[tanning salons] don't want you to burn, they want you to come back,” says Dendy Engleman, MD, a board-certified dermatologist in New York City. “But UVA radiation ages you more readily, breaks down collagen more readily, and it's more oncogenic, meaning cancer-causing.”

And late last year, new research from Northwestern Medicine and the University of California, San Francisco, revealed that tanning bed usage is in fact even more dangerous than we knew. Before then, it was thought that indoor tanners were about 75% more likely to develop melanoma than those who have never tanned indoors, and that just one session in a tanning bed could increase the risk by 20%. But this latest research found that tanning bed usage actually triples the risk of skin cancer—that's a 200% increase. Not only that, through comparing 182 skin biopsies, the researchers showed the UV emitted from tanning beds caused unique DNA mutations, more damaging than previously known. “The takeaway is simple: Tanning beds don’t just age your skin, they biologically shift your cells toward cancer,” Mona Gohara, MD, a board-certified dermatologist and clinical professor at the Yale School of Medicine Department of Dermatology, told Allure at the time.

“The same way we do not want our teens to smoke, we do not want them to go to a tanning bed.”

This gap between irrefutable scientific proof and government policy can lead to widespread confusion, something Kavita Mariwalla, MD, double board-certified dermatologist in Long Island, New York, is very concerned about. “When the FDA, the organization tasked with determining the safety of medications and devices for the United States, backs off this proposal, it gives two signals,” she says. “The first is that it’s not an important issue and the second is that tanning isn’t dangerous enough for the FDA to get involved—both could not be farther from the truth.”

Currently, there is no federal ban on people under 18 using tanning beds; however, a number of individual states—including California, New York, Virginia, Illinois, and Texas—have bans in place for minors. Some states, such as Alabama, Washington, and Oregon, are considered to have bans but allow exceptions with a doctor’s prescription. Others—like Idaho, Michigan, and Utah—require a parent’s consent or supervision. But those rules are not always enforced. “In a lot of states, high schoolers can just go tanning on the way home from school and their parents don’t even know,” says Dr. Engelman, who is originally from South Carolina, a state where tanning bed operators are supposed to ask customers under 18 for written consent from a parent or legal guardian. “In my experience, in the South at least, tanning salons that should be asking for IDs and parental consent often aren’t.”

“Teen skin is particularly susceptible to ultraviolet damage.”

And even when parents have the opportunity to stop their teens from tanning, “​​it's hard to parent in 2026, and sometimes on the list of things you’re willing to go to battle on, tanning beds fall at the bottom,” says Dr. Mariwalla, a mother of three who sees young patients and their parents in her clinic daily.

Dr. Engelman, also a mother, agrees: “It’s like parents having to regulate smartphones and social media on our own. It’s on us to sign Wait Til 8th pledges and protect our kids. We know that it only takes one young person to make everyone else fall, everyone will crowd around that phone,” she says. Or follow that friend to a tanning salon. “It would be great to have bans on the things we know for a fact are particularly dangerous for young people, to have a governing body with an emphasis on health helping us to keep our kids safe.”

The stakes here are high. “Skin cancer has reached epidemic rates in the United States,” says Dr. Mariwalla, noting that despite dermatologists’ best efforts to educate the public and scientific advancements in treatment, the rate of melanoma deaths has not changed in years. The American Cancer Society estimates that new melanoma cases in 2026 will be 10.6% higher than in 2025. And before the age of 18, exposure to UVA-heavy radiation severely impacts your risk of being diagnosed with skin cancer, especially deadly melanoma, as an adult. “Teen skin is particularly susceptible to ultraviolet damage,” says Dr. Mariwalla, explaining that skin structure is more sensitive.

“Skin cancer has reached epidemic rates in the United States.”

Yet, despite overwhelming evidence that tanning is a dangerous habit, many people—particularly young people—continue to believe pervasive myths about it. Stimulating vitamin D production and providing a healthy “base tan” prior to vacation are two of the most common. According to a 2025 AAD survey, “Younger adults may not fully grasp the dangers—especially with the influence of social media trends that promote tanning.” With misinformation proliferating online, clear guidance and action on tanning dangers from the FDA is more important than ever.

“The [FDA’s] decision sends the wrong message—especially to young people—that tanning beds are safe, when they’re not,” Dr. Mariwalla says. “The same way we do not want our teens to smoke, we do not want them to go to a tanning bed.”

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Here comes the (reported) bride! Zendaya, who may or may not have tied the knot with longtime love Tom Holland, plays a newlywed in the upcoming A24 movie The Drama, and she's leaning all the way into themed dressing with her latest red carpet look—and a manicure to match!

While it goes without saying that wedding-day nails can be whatever you want them to be, depending on your personal style and the vibe of your big day—I wore red nail polish to mine—there's something about a delicate, romantic neutral nail that just feels so bridal. For the Los Angeles premiere of The Drama, Zendaya kept it simple and classic with short, lightly squared-off nails in a milky blush pink shade—a bridal go-to if there ever was one, not to mention a red carpet mainstay for its sheer (pun intended) versatility.

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Let's examine them from a closer angle, shall we? Simple, shiny, softly romantic: check, check, and check! They're timeless and neutral enough not take attention away from the dress or her jewelry, and they look as good with a white gown and diamonds as they would with jeans and a hoodie.

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The nails weren't the only bridal element of Zendaya's look, and we're not talking about her diamond engagement ring and slim gold band combo. (Though we are noticing it!) Her dress was “something old”—a.k.a. a Vivienne Westwood gown she wore to the Oscars in 2015, once again proving how flawlessly she and stylist Law Roach incorporate Method dressing into every project. The rest of her glam also felt so perfect for the red carpet and the long walk to the altar; hairstylist Ursula Stephen styled Zendaya's new bixie with a deep side part and ‘20s vibe, and makeup artist Ernesto Casillas took “blushing bride” literally with flushed cheeks and a similar rose-toned lipstick. With such beautiful details like these, you don't even need a wedding beauty Pinterest board for your own big day; the inspiration is all right here!

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TL;DR:

• What it is: A face oil
• What it does: Instantly soothes and adds hydration to skin
• Who it’s for: Anyone looking for a lightweight moisturizer alternative

Dermatologists recommend lightening your lotion load in the spring, and, in my experience, a face oil always makes for a pleasant replacement and/or addition.

“A face oil primarily helps seal in hydration and reinforce your skin’s natural moisture barrier,” Whitney Hovenic, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in Reno, Nevada, previously told AIlure. This is because oils are primarily made of lipids (as opposed to water), so they lock in moisture but do not necessarily provide it.

A featherlight option the Allure team is loving right now is the Blossom Essentials Hydration Oil. The antioxidant-rich elixir is made with a cocktail of nourishing seed oils (jojoba, rosehip, and marula), so it deeply hydrates the surface of the skin with a delicate touch and feel (like silk!), and a surprisingly fast dry-down.

While you can absolutely use it in place of a moisturizer (depending on your skin type), I actually like to use it as the final step in my nighttime routine. After cleansing and applying my serums and moisturizer, I squeeze a dime-sized amount into the palm of my hand, then gently pat it onto my skin. Like I said, it dries down really fast, so I never have to worry about post-application stickiness or pilling—just an immediate glowy finish.

The Blossom Essentials Hydration Oil is in the March Allure Beauty Box.

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Blossom Essentials Hydration Oil

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The effect pregnancy has on your sense of taste is well known (pickles and ice cream, anyone?), but the effect it can have on your sense of smell is less commonly discussed—and just as real. I learned the hard way about those changes to the olfactory system during pregnancy. As a beauty editor, I own an expansive fragrance wardrobe, and every single scent made me sick during my first trimester. Even my favorite fragrance, Matiere Premiere’s Vanilla Powder, made my stomach turn. I knew pregnancy, with all of its hormonal fluctuations, would bring an onslaught of uncomfortable symptoms, but I didn’t expect any of them to totally rewire my nose.

Turns out, I wasn’t alone in this experience. Anate Brauer, MD, a board-certified reproductive endocrinologist, says the change in how I perceived smells during this time is in line with what other patients experience. Being pregnant isn’t the only time this shift can happen, either; any subtle hormonal fluctuations you experience—across your menstrual cycle, during perimenopause, and while using hormonal contraception—can influence how you perceive scent.

Ahead, experts break down how different hormonal shifts and phases in a woman’s life can impact the sense of smell.

Pregnancy

Brought on by hormonal shifts in pregnancy, changes in how you perceive smell “commonly happen in the first trimester,” says Dr. Brauer, adding that patients typically complain about a heightened sense of smell. There’s an evolutionary explanation, she explains: “When you're pregnant, your body goes on high alert to protect you and your baby.” For some, that means nausea triggered by everyday smells; for others, this biological reaction means that long-standing fragrance preferences shift overnight.

There’s also an endocrinological explanation in that the biggest hormonal surge during pregnancy happens during these early weeks. Human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG)—the main pregnancy hormone responsible for fetal development—peaks at about 8 to 11 weeks of gestation. This major hormone shift can shock multiple systems in your body, including the olfactory system. But hCG isn’t the only hormone responsible, estrogen and progesterone also come into play.

Estrogen

The endocrine system is more intertwined with your sense of smell than most people realize, and estrogen is the primary hormone to blame if yours shifts significantly, says Dr. Brauer. Estrogen, which is vital to regulating the female reproductive system, fluctuates during pregnancy, puberty, throughout the menstrual cycle, and menopause. It’s the hormone responsible for the development of breasts during puberty, uterine-lining growth, and the formation of fallopian tubes. “There are estrogen receptors throughout the entire central nervous system,” Dr. Bauer points out, and they immediately pick up when your hormones are spiking.

To explain how estrogen impacts smell, Dr. Brauer zooms in closer: The olfactory pathway—from the lining of the inside of your nose to the brain’s scent-processing centers—is dotted with these receptors. When estrogen levels spike, smells can register as more intense. Sometimes that intensity reads as pleasurable, like during ovulation (we’ll get into that shortly); other times, though, it can be overwhelming, which is how I felt when I was rummaging through my fragrance collection, desperate to find anything that wouldn’t make me want to hurl.

Human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG)
For pregnant people, another hormone enters the mix: The aforementioned human chorionic gonadotropin, or hCG, is the hormone that indicates you’re pregnant when you take an at-home test. Produced by the placenta, hCG supports fetal development by signaling the body to maintain the pregnancy and suppress hormones that cause menstruation. It also helps with immune tolerance, ensuring that the mother's body does not reject the embryo.

“There are receptors for hCG in your central nervous system, too, which can increase the sensation of nausea,” says Dr. Brauer. Nausea itself can heighten aversion, turning once-loved sensory notes into instant triggers. I felt so seen when she told me this; even the mildest eau de toilettes in my fragrance wardrobe had made me feel ill.

Progesterone

Progesterone, which is produced in the ovaries after ovulation and is responsible for regulating your menstrual cycle, is another hormone you’ll hear the doctor mention during pregnancy check-ups. Across the months, progesterone steadily increases, helping to thicken the uterine lining, and peaks right before you give birth.

“Progesterone likely contributes to olfactory changes in pregnancy through its effects on the central nervous system and sensory processing,” says Maral Malekzadeh, MD, a board-certified gynecologist in Cleveland and co-owner of The Well Westlake. But, she adds, progesterone doesn’t contribute to changes in your sense of smell as significantly as estrogen or hCG.

Menstruation

Finding out that my hormones can affect how I perceive smell prompted me to look back more generally on my relationship with perfume. I wondered whether the subtle shifts I’d noticed over the years—craving syrupy gourmands one week, deeper musks the next—were also hormonal.

Until recently, I thought vibes guided me to reach for certain scents day-to-day, but Dr. Malekzadeh says otherwise: “Across the menstrual cycle, estrogen and progesterone fluctuate in a coordinated pattern, and during ovulation, some people report being sensitive to perfumes. Estrogen, specifically, rises during the follicular phase and during ovulation,” she continues, “[and] some people report heightened olfactory sensitivity.”

During the lead-up to ovulation, you also experience a slight increase in testosterone. This combination sometimes causes an uptick in sex drive, says Dr. Malekzadeh. While the science is nuanced and fragrance perception is complex (shaped by psychology, chemistry, environmental context, and biology), you can generalize that this surge of randiness can make certain fragrance notes feel more compelling. Some people report subtle shifts in attraction to body scent. Musk and warm, amber scents, for instance, may read as more intimate. In short, when your body is primed for connection, your nose might be too.

Birth control

So what happens when you throw birth control into the mix? Both doctors Brauer and Malekzadeh explain that oral hormonal contraception works by altering hormone levels, ultimately suppressing ovulation. This can affect the body in several ways, such as mood changes, sudden breakouts, and sore breasts (basically, everything you love about having your period).

As we’ve discussed, changes in sex hormones (estrogen and testosterone) can also influence libido and how you respond to certain scents. In studies examining immune system genes, known as the major histocompatibility complex, or MHC, women often preferred the body odor of men whose immune systems were genetically different from their own, a pairing scientists believe could potentially lead to stronger immune defenses in children. But here’s the thing: Researchers also found that women taking hormonal birth control prefer scents of men with more similar immunity genes to their own.

The theory is that because the pill alters hormonal signals in the body, it may subtly change the way we perceive and respond to scent. It's important to note, however, that this area of science is still largely unexplored, and there isn’t yet concrete evidence that largely shows how birth control, specifically, affects your sense of smell or fragrance preferences.

Perimenopause and menopause

As estrogen levels fluctuate during perimenopause and decline in menopause, you may start to experience symptoms you’ve never had before, like hot flashes, weight gain, and mood swings. Even your sense of smell might shift during this time. “Some [women] report changes in smell sensitivity, scent tolerance, or fragrance preference,” says Dr. Malekzadeh. But there isn’t one universal pattern; some people experience heightened sensitivity, while others notice the opposite.

A 2025 study found that postmenopausal women can experience a diminished sense of smell. What could that look like in your daily life? You might find yourself reaching for fragrance less often, not because it suddenly repels you, but because it doesn’t register as strongly as it once did. You may also find yourself gravitating to bolder, more potent scents simply because they’re easier to perceive.

A Final Word About Hormones and Scent

What can you do when your favorite fragrance suddenly makes you recoil? Dr. Brauer’s best advice is to avoid these kinds of triggers. “It’s unfortunate for someone who likes perfume or previously liked certain smells but can't tolerate them anymore,” she says. Thankfully, though, my aversion to most scents mellowed out in my second trimester, and the same can be said for many women during pregnancy. If your shift in scent preferences seems more permanent, you can at least take solace in the fact that you’re not alone—there’s probably a Reddit thread out there that can function as a support group until your nose sorts things out.

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The best Korean lip tints are—and have been—at the top of their game, and as a beauty editor who almost exclusively wears them, this story practically writes itself. If you’re in the market for a moisturizing, non-sticky, pigmented, and relatively long-lasting lip color, keep reading. I know I’m just one very devoted K-beauty lip product person, but our editor in chief agrees: “I wholeheartedly believe that no one does lip stains better than Korea,” confirms Jessica Cruel.

The one caveat with my picks? They’re not typically ultra long-wearing—and I’m okay with that. Most aren’t true stains, so I don’t expect them to cling on all day, and I tend to gravitate toward hydrating, skin-care-infused formulas that won’t settle into lip lines as the hours pass. Plus, I don’t mind (and even enjoy) reapplying, especially after meals.

My Top Korean Lip Stains

• Best Overall: Rom&nd The Juicy Lasting Tint, $15
• Most Hydrating: Dinto Blur-Glowy Lip Tint, $18
• Best Dewy Finish: Peripera Mood Glowy Tint, $13
• Best Matte Finish: Rom&nd Blur Fudge Tint, $14
• Cutest Packaging: Amuse Seoul Daisy Flower Dew Tint, $19
• Most Long-Lasting: Etude Dear Darling Water Tint, $7

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

Best Overall: Rom&nd The Juicy Lasting Tint

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Rom&nd

The Juicy Lasting Tint

$15

Ulta Beauty

Why I love it: The best lip tint is an all-rounder, and in the world of K-beauty, that roughly translates to Rom&nd's The Juicy Lasting Tint. (Fun fact: I recently learned Rom&nd—pronounced “rom and"—stands for Romantic and Modern, which tracks given its lineup of peaches, pinks, corals, reds, berries, and nudey browns.) Not only are these high-shine formulas named after fruits (my go-tos are Plum Coke and Bare Grape), but they also leave behind a dewy, just-bit-into-a-juicy-peach kind of sheen…only with way more color payoff.

For the most comfortable wear, I like to first apply a layer of clear lip balm and let it sit for a few minutes while I do the rest of my makeup, then blot off the excess—don’t skip this step—before going in with the tint. That said, the formula is hydrating enough to hold its own without prep; it really just depends on how dry my lips are that day. It’s not the longest-lasting option out there (we’ll get to those), but that’s kind of the point for me. I’d rather reapply something plush and nourishing throughout the day—it’s become a small comfort ritual—than deal with anything that leaves my lips feeling tight or shriveled.

Allure commerce editor Sarah Han applying the Rom&nd The Juicy Lasting Tint

Sarah Han

Han after applying the Rom&nd The Juicy Lasting Tint

Sarah Han

More to know

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• Notable ingredients: plum oil, mango seed butter, raspberry seed oil, sodium hyaluronate
• Finish: dewy
• Shades available: 23

Most Hydrating: Dinto Blur-Glowy Lip Tint

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Dinto

Blur-Glowy Lip Tint

$18 $15 (17% off)

Amazon

$20

Yesstyle

Why I love it: A new-to-me brand I stumbled on in January 2026 while browsing Olive Young in Seoul, Dinto (a mashup of “Deeply Into”) takes a philosophical, dark-academia kind of vibe. While that’s not the type of brand I would typically gravitate towards, but those are often the best finds, the ones that come down to a quick in-store swatch and a gut feeling. From a one swipe, I could instantly tell how hydrating the Blur-Glowy Lip Tint is—which is saying a lot, due to how generally nourishing Korean lip tints are. The secret sauce is a water-to-oil texture that delivers lasting, fine-line-blurring moisture, plus a glassy coating that boosts shine. It looks like a gloss, but feels surprisingly lightweight, with zero stickiness. (But, then again, are we really surprised when it comes to Korean makeup?)

I also fell in love with one specific shade (I had a budget!), 221 Temet Nosce, a cool-toned mauve that filled a gap in my lip color collection. Another worth shouting out: The V-shaped-tapered applicator allows me to fill my cupid’s bow and stubborn outer corners with such ease. No notes!

Han applying the Dinto Blur-Glowy Lip Tint

Sarah Han

Han after applying the Dinto Blur-Glowy Lip Tint

Sarah Han

More to know

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• Notable ingredients: squalane, vitamin E
• Finish: high-shine
• Shades available: 30

Best Dewy Finish: Peripera Ink Mood Glowy Tint

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Peripera

Mood Glowy Tint

$16

Amazon

$11

Yesstyle

$16

Olive Young

Why I love it: I’ve known and liked this formula for years, but after a recent reformulation, Peripera’s Ink Mood Glowy Tints has recaptured my attention. (They’ve also been topping the charts on Hwahae—Korea’s wildly popular beauty review app, where everyday users rate and rank products—as well as at Olive Young, by the way.) Whether you like to go subtle or bold, this tint is incredibly buildable and accommodates all preferences. It’s very hydrating, thanks to squalane, glycerin, and tiger lily, so I end up reapplying it the way I would a tinted balm—but with the added bonus that the color actually sticks around. Win-win.

One thing to keep in mind: While the shade range is pretty extensive at 20, it leans light—so if you’re looking for deeper reds, roses, and browns, there are not as many options as one might hope.

Han applying the Peripera Mood Glowy Tint

Sarah Han

Han after applying the Peripera Mood Glowy Tint

Sarah Han

More to know

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• Notable ingredients: squalane, glycerin, tiger lily extract, witch hazel extract
• Finish: glowy
• Shades available: 20

Best Matte Finish: Rom&nd Blur Fudge Tint

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Rom&nd

Blur Fudge Tint

$14

Ulta Beauty

$15

Yesstyle

$15

Olive Young

Why I love it: Whether you like all-over color (hello, me!) or a gradient, popsicle-lip-inspired effect (I applaud your patience), Rom&nd shines yet again in the matte department. The Blur Fudge Tint has this fluffy, whipped texture that gives a soft-focus, blurred finish without that tight, overly dry feel I usually associate with matte liquid lipsticks. Despite my preference for an even, opaque look, I do find it a bit helpful to use my clean ring finger to dab along the edges, since the Blur Fudge Tint is on the thicker side. It does dry down to a transfer-proof finish, but after a few hours, I notice my lip lines becoming more pronounced. Not a dealbreaker, just something to know. After all, I largely prefer hydrating lip tints for a reason! Nonetheless, certain occasions demand a matte lip, and who am I to deny them?

Han applying the Rom&nd Blur Fudge Tint

Sarah Han

Han after applying the Rom&nd Blur Fudge Tint

Sarah Han

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• Notable ingredients: dimethicone, macadamia nut oil, vitamin E
• Finish: matte
• Shades available: 16

Cutest Packaging: Amuse Seoul Daisy Flower Dew Tint

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Amuse

Seoul Daisy Flower Dew Tint

$19

Amazon

$19

Yesstyle

Why I love it: There’s no question that Korean formulas perform, but the packaging can’t be overlooked. It’s those little mood boosts that make lip tints like the Seoul Daisy Flower Dew Tint feel a cut above the usual lineup of plain tubes. (It’s true!) Amuse, in particular, stands out as a brand that really nails this department. Case in point: this flower-topped lip tint that screams spring. (They also did an adorable Hello Kitty collab last year that I still regret not picking up in Seoul in 2025.)

I love the playfulness in the designs, which was especially prevalent when I visited one of the brand’s flagship stores in Seongsu (very different energy from browsing an Olive Young). The Seoul Daisy Flower Dew Tint fills the bill of an everyday, low-key wash of color: It’s balanced in the hydrating-pigmented spectrum, so I can swipe and go without deliberating much…or at all.

Han applying the Amuse Seoul Daisy Flower Dew Tint

Sarah Han

Han after applying the Amuse Seoul Daisy Flower Dew Tint

Sarah Han

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• Notable ingredients: apple extract, mango extract, squalane, vitamin E
• Finish: dewy/glossy
• Shades available: 15

Most Long-Lasting: Etude Dear Darling Water Tint

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Etude

Dear Darling Water Tint

$7

Amazon

$7

Ulta Beauty

$7

Yesstyle

Han applying the Etude Dear Darling Water Tint

Sarah Han

Why I love it: The fact that Etude's Dear Darling Water Tint was one of the very first Korean lip tints I tried in the 2010s—and that it also takes the crown for longest-lasting—is kismet. And, when I say long-lasting, please direct your attention to the cute sheen of oil on my forehead as proof that I put this through a full-day wear test.

However, I’ll be real with you: The staying power comes at a small trade-off. My lips are perpetually dry, so I usually end up layering a clear balm on top throughout the day for comfort (I rotate between Then I Met You’s Honey Dew Lip Mask and Torriden’s Solid In Lip Essence). But in return, this is a true stain—no matter how many drinks or meals I have, the color mostly stays put, resists smudges, and fades slightly but beautifully.

Han immediately after applying the Etude Dear Darling Water Tint

Sarah Han

Han 8 hours after applying the Han applying the Etude Dear Darling Water Tint

Sarah Han

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• Notable ingredients: pomegranate and grape extracts
• Finish: glossy at first, settles into matte over time
• Shades available: 9