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Simone Biles is opening up about the plastic surgery procedures she's had done.

In a recent “Get un-ready with me” video posted to TikTok, the Olympian played a trivia game with her followers as she got ready for bed, sharing fun facts about herself and touching on a variety of topics—including plastic surgery.

“I've had three plastic surgeries and two of them you would never be able to tell," she said in the video “Guess!” Followers shared their thoughts in the comments, and Biles then spilled the beans about which three procedures she'd had done: a cherry emoji, likely to reference breast implants; a lower blepharoplasty “because I had THE WORST eye bags”; and an earlobe procedure after an earring was ripped from her ear when she was younger. Ouch! (She also shared that she's allergic to "most lip glosses" but hasn't figured out which ingredient irritates her skin.)

A lower blepharoplasty is a procedure used to de-puff and tighten skin under the eyes. In the past, candidates were typically older people dealing with loose, sagging skin and undereye bags, as Allure reported earlier this year, it's becoming more popular with patients in their 20s and 30s who want a more permanent solution to puffiness, which is often simply genetic or part of their anatomy. A lower bleph can be performed as a standalone surgery or combined with other procedures, and the final result is a subtle, smooth, refreshed undereye area.

While Biles has never explicitly confirmed or denied breast implants, she nodded to them again with the cherries emoji in an Instagram Story from mid-October, saying it was the first flip she'd done in a year, adding it was “with new 🍒.”

Biles isn't the only star speaking more openly about getting work done. Kylie Jenner shared her exact breast implant details in a TikTok comment, and Jennifer Lawrence recently said that she's got plans to get her breasts done soon—as in, maybe this month—after having two children. “Everything bounced back, pretty much, after the first one,” she told The New Yorker. “Second one, nothing bounced back.”

Watch Biles's full video below:

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Millie Bobby Brown is over the constant conversation and criticism around her hair and makeup choices.

In early 2025, headlines blared that the Stranger Things star looked “old” and had possibly had plastic surgery, and the 21-year-old actor responded to all the conversation by calling the publications and writers out by name. “I started in this industry when I was 10 years old," she wrote on Instagram at the time. "I grew up in front of the world, and for some reason, people can’t seem to grow with me,” she said her post. “Instead, they act like … I should still look the way I did on Stranger Things season one. And because I don’t, I’m now a target.”

Now, Brown is revisiting that conversation in a new interview with British Vogue. The star knows that being perceived is part of the job, but bristles at some of the coverage given to a young woman who is having fun with beauty and figuring out who she is. "I understand that there’s paparazzi, even though it’s invasive, even though it feels like sh*t to me–I know that’s your job,” she shared. "But don’t, in your headline, slam me at the get-go. It is so wrong and it is bullying, especially to young girls who are new to this industry and are already questioning everything about it.”

According to Brown, the headlines regarding her ‘90s-inspired blonde hair and glam from the The Electric State press tour really hurt her feelings. “I was depressed for three, four days. I was crying every day,” she told British Vogue, adding that she was crying in the glam chair before presenting an award to Sabrina Carpenter at the Brit Awards. (Carpenter gave her a hug and told her to “F**k ’em!")

But today, she's feeling much more confident in her beauty experimentation and isn't afraid to call people out. “If me being blonde or wearing more make-up really bothers you, I’m going to address it—not just for myself, but for every other girl who wants to try a new hairstyle or wear a red lip,” Brown shared. “It’s, like, get off my f***ing case, you know? I am 21. I am going to have fun and play and be myself.”

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It's November, but Hailey Bieber has summer on the brain—and on her nails.

To celebrate her close friend Kendall Jenner's 30th birthday on the island of Mustique, the Rhode founder went whimsical with her nail art, turning to her go-to manicurist Zola Ganzorigt to whip up a “seafood palette” manicure reminiscent of the “tomato girl” and “tinned fish” aesthetics with a beachy twist.

Bieber doesn't typically wear nail art, though she does occasionally dabble with adorable minuscule designs like itsy-bitsy fruit. The seafood nails are a majorly charming departure from her usual manicure oeuvre and simply couldn't be cuter! (Swipe to the second pic in Bieber's Instagram photo dump below to see it.)

Each finger sported its own unique design, starting with a teeny-tiny little prawn atop a creamy white base on her thumb, surrounded by a cobalt blue border. On her pointer finger, Ganzorigt painted delicate baby pink stripes over that same creamy base color, then switched it up for the middle finger, where she painted a lemon slice at the base of the nail and covered the tip in silver chrome. The little orange fishy on Bieber's ring finger is my personal favorite, though the wild card in the mani, a red hibiscus flower on a yellow base, is pretty darn adorable too. The same designs were repeated on the opposite hand, though Ganzorigt changed up the placements, painting the prawn on Bieber's middle finger and the hibiscus on her ring finger, for example.

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The seafood theme is perfect for a beach trip with all your besties or a dose of laid-back summer energy in the middle of winter, but imagine all the different foodie-themed options you could experiment with over the next few months. A Thanksgiving dinner! A caviar bar! A brunch buffet! Wait, did I just figure out my next manicure theme? Thanks Hailey!

Photographed by CARLOS and ALYSE. Stylist: Fiona Green. Hair: Jenni Iva Wimmerstedt. Makeup: Andrew Colvin. Manicure: Elina Ogawa. Model: Brandi Quinones. Shirt by Issey Miyake. Earrings by Paula Mendoza.

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Skin-care products aren’t known for instant gratification, but using the best wrinkle cream proves the power of patience. While no cream can reverse signs of aging altogether, early and consistent use of these superhero formulas can soften fine lines, tighten and plump skin, and even tone over time. And while we think aging skin is something to celebrate, we get it if you’re not quite ready to embrace the changes.

These potent moisturizers are formulated with active ingredients—like peptides, hyaluronic acid, retinol, and ceramides (to name a few)—designed to temporarily improve the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles while making up for lost moisture. We tapped dermatologists to learn which wrinkle serums and creams actually work—here are the best 10.

Our Top Wrinkle Creams

• Best Wrinkle Cream Overall: Alastin Restorative Skin Complex with TriHex+, $258
• Best for Dry Skin: Lancôme Rénergie H.P.N. 300-Peptide Anti-Aging Cream, $150
• Best for Deep Wrinkles: SkinCeuticals A.G.E. Interrupter Advanced, $185
• Best for Barrier Support: Ourself Daily Renewal Cream Rich, $85
• Best for Sensitive Skin: RoC Retinol Correxion Max Daily Hydration Fragrance Free Cream, $35
• Best for Hyperpigmentation: Shiseido Vital Perfection Uplifting and Firming Advanced Cream, $145
• Best Firming: Neocutis BioSerum Firm, $290
• Best for Lax Skin: Isdin Isdinceutics Age Contour Night Face Moisturizer, $145
• Best for Expression Lines: Revision Skincare Revox 7, $150
• Best Drugstore: Olay Regenerist Micro-Sculpting Cream, $27

Frequently Asked QuestionsAccordionItemContainerButtonLargeChevron

• What causes skin aging?
• When will I start seeing results from wrinkle creams?
• What in-office treatments target wrinkles?
• Meet the experts
• How we test and review products
• Our staff and testers

Best Wrinkle Cream Overall: Alastin Restorative Skin Complex with TriHex+

Alastin

Restorative Skin Complex with TriHex+

$258

Alastin

Allure contributing commerce writer Christa Joanna Lee applying the Alastin Restorative Skin Complex with TriHex+

Christa Joanna Lee

Why we love it: Skin changes with time—that’s natural—but Alastin Restorative Skin Complex with TriHex+ helps it stay resilient, supported, and visibly vibrant at every stage. TriHex+ is the brand’s patented blend of peptides designed to clear out old, damaged collagen and elastin while signaling the skin to produce fresh, healthy fibers in their place (in other words, think of it as a cleanup crew and a construction team in one). The recently updated formula steps things up with octapeptide-45 to further support collagen, elastin, and hyaluronic acid, plus magnolol to calm inflammation and l-ornithine to help visibly firm and re-plump thinning areas. Whether you’re in between treatments or just want to keep skin looking supported and firm, this serum-like consistency sinks in quickly, making it easy to fit into any routine (and worthy of its luxury price point).

Lee before applying the Alastin Restorative Skin Complex with TriHex+

Christa Joanna Lee

Lee after applying the Alastin Restorative Skin Complex with TriHex+

Christa Joanna Lee

Tester feedback from contributing commerce writer Christa Joanna Lee

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“As someone with dry, sensitive skin and a few early signs of aging (read: the appearance of fine lines around my eyes), my first foray into Alastin skin care has been a pleasant surprise. The Restorative Skin Complex with TriHex+ feels like the perfect mix of an ultra-light moisturizer and serum—it sinks in fast but leaves my skin hydrated and smooth all day. After a few weeks, my complexion looks a little plumper and my skin texture is more even—with hardly any effort at all.” —Christa Joanna Lee, contributing commerce writer

More to know

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• Key ingredients: TriHex Technology (peptide blend), octapeptide-45, magnolol, l-ornithine
• Fragrance-free: yes

Best for Dry Skin: Lancôme Rénergie H.P.N. 300-Peptide Anti-Aging Cream

Lancôme

Rénergie H.P.N. 300-Peptide Anti-Aging Cream

$150

Amazon

$150

Nordstrom

$150

Ulta Beauty

Why it's worth it: H.P.N. is an acronym for the three star ingredients doing the heavy lifting in this formula: hyaluronic acid, peptides (over 300 of them!), and niacinamide. Together, “Lancôme’s Rénergie H.P.N. 300-Peptide Anti-Aging Cream is a multi-tasking formula that helps firm, smooth, and brighten the skin,” says Whitney Hovenic, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in Reno, Nevada. The peptides help support collagen and elasticity, niacinamide improves tone and radiance, and hyaluronic acid pulls in deep moisture—making tight, dehydrated skin feel cushioned again. As Dr. Hovenic explains, “The texture feels rich but absorbs quickly, leaving skin hydrated, supple, and visibly more radiant with continued use.”

More to know

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• Key ingredients: hyaluronic acid, peptides, niacinamide
• Fragrance-free: no

Best for Deep Wrinkles: SkinCeuticals A.G.E. Interrupter Advanced

SkinCeuticals

A.G.E. Interrupter Advanced

$185

SkinCeuticals

$185

Dermstore

$185

Bluemercury

Why we love it: A.G.E. doesn’t actually stand for “age” (even though it’s fitting); it’s short for advanced glycation end-products, which are basically sticky sugar-protein bonds that gunk up your collagen over time and lead to deeper wrinkles, sagging, and that crepey look on the face, neck, and chest. SkinCeuticals’ A.G.E. Interrupter Advanced was made to slow that process down and help undo some of the visible effects. The featured ingredient is proprietary 18% Proxylane, a molecule that helps rebuild the skin’s “support beams,” making it look firmer and more cushioned. The formula also packs 4.25% blueberry and pomegranate flavonoids to help defend against sugar and environmental damage, plus 0.1% licorice-derived glycyrrhetinic acid to calm and brighten. It’s richer than a standard moisturizer, but that’s on purpose—it’s meant for skin dealing with deeper lines, loss of density, and dryness.

Tester feedback from senior editor Jesa Marie Calaor

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“Many moisturizers sting my dry, sensitive skin—but not the A.G.E. Interrupter Advanced. It coddles my skin, comforting the extra-dry patches and leaving my complexion bouncy and bright.” —Jesa Marie Calaor, senior editor

More to know

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• Key ingredients: Proxylane, blueberry extract, pomegranate extract, glycyrrhetinic acid
• Fragrance-free: no

Best for Barrier Support: Ourself Daily Renewal Cream Rich

Ourself

Daily Renewal Cream Rich

$85

Ourself

Why we love it: The “Rich” version of Ourself’s Daily Renewal Cream is made for the moments your skin needs extra support: after a peel, during freezing cold-weather months, or when your face just feels dry and overworked. “It’s a favorite for those with dry skin, which is especially important as we go into the winter months,” says Dr. Hovenic. The formula relies on the brand’s Intides (a.k.a. “intelligent peptides”), niacinamide, hyaluronic acid, and ginger root extract to hydrate, even tone, and calm irritation. Then shea butter and carob fruit extract step in to “provide deep nourishment and strengthen the skin’s barrier function,” says Dr. Hovenic. Thanks to its slow-release delivery tech, the comfort actually lasts—“skin feels nourished and protected all day long,” she adds.

More to know

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• Key ingredients: Intides, niacinamide, hyaluronic acid, shea butter,
• Fragrance-free: yes

Best for Sensitive Skin: RoC Retinol Correxion Max Daily Hydration Fragrance Free Cream

RoC

Retinol Correxion Max Daily Hydration Fragrance Free Cream

$35 $28 (20% off)

Amazon

$38

Ulta Beauty

Why we love it: You might be surprised that our pick for sensitive skin includes retinol, but hear us out. RoC Retinol Correxion Max Daily Hydration Fragrance Free Cream pairs retinol (the gold-standard wrinkle fighter) with hyaluronic acid to cushion skin against the dryness and irritation retinol is known for. “This is a wrinkle-fighting cream for sensitive and dry skin, using both hyaluronic acid for short-term plumping and retinol for long-term results,” says Peter Bittar, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in Miami. The formula also includes soothing hydrators such as glycerin, dimethicone, and glyceryl behenate, plus antioxidants (vitamin E and C derivatives) to help calm and protect the skin. “Since it’s fragrance-free, it minimizes irritation,” and is a gentle entry point for anyone who wants retinol results without the rough side effects, says Dr. Bittar.

More to know

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• Key ingredients: retinol (percentage not disclosed), hyaluronic acid, glycerin
• Fragrance-free: yes

Best for Hyperpigmentation: Shiseido Vital Perfection Uplifting and Firming Advanced Cream

Shiseido

Vital Perfection Uplifting and Firming Advanced Cream

$145

Amazon

$145

Nordstrom

Why we love it: If your main concerns are uneven tone and dark spots, along with loss of firmness, Shiseido’s Vital Perfection Uplifting and Firming Advanced Cream targets all three at once. The formula’s hero, SafflowerRED (grown exclusively in Japan), helps lift, firm, and visibly even the complexion, while ziziphus jujuba fruit extract zeroes in on hyperpigmentation and elasticity. Ginseng root extract supports natural collagen production for brighter, stronger skin, and caffeine adds a quick-hit brightening effect while helping soften the look of lines. Plus, a mix of gentle botanicals—like rosemary, green tea, and angelica root—helps calm, hydrate, and maintain the moisture barrier, which is key if you want that firm-yet-glowy finish instead of tight, dry skin.

Tester feedback from Lee

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“I’m a sucker for a good sensorial moment, and this texture is so pillowy and weightless it practically feels like you’re smoothing on a cloud. The subtle scent is luxe without being overpowering for daily use, and even with added fragrance, my sensitive, redness-prone skin isn’t bothered. After a few weeks, I’ve noticed my skin looks more even, and its non-greasy texture layers nicely under makeup.” —Christa Joanna Lee, contributing commerce writer

More to know

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• Key ingredients: SafflowerRED, ginseng root extract, ziziphus jujuba fruit extract, caffeine
• Fragrance-free: no

Best Firming: Neocutis BioSerum Firm

Neocutis

BioSerum Firm

$290

Amazon

$290

Dermstore

Why we love it: Nashville-based board-certified dermatologist Natalie M. Curcio, MD, is a fan of the Neocutis BioSerum Firm, which works as both a daytime and nighttime moisturizer. The formula combines growth factors and peptides for softer-looking fine lines and wrinkles, she says. P.S.: The growth factors are derived from cultured cells—no actual human tissue is involved. The brand says you’ll start seeing a difference in six days to keep antsiness at a minimum. If you prefer a richer formula or have really dry skin, consider Neocutis's BioCream Firme Riche. "The formulation has been shown to improve collagen and elastin production in as little as 14 days," says San Diego-based board-certified dermatologist Melanie Palm, MD.

More to know

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• Key ingredients: human growth factors, peptides, sodium hyaluronate
• Who it’s for: everyone
• Fragrance-free: yes

Best for Lax Skin: Isdin Isdinceutics Age Contour Night Face Moisturizer

Isdin

Isdinceutics Age Contour Night Face Moisturizer

$145

Amazon

$145

Dermstore

Why we love it: Packed with wrinkle smoothers like carnosine (a dipeptide naturally found in the body that declines with age) and niacinamide, the Isdin Isdinceutics Age Contour Night Face Moisturizer has won over Ava Shamban, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in Los Angeles. The formula also has hyaluronic acid, which binds water to the skin cells, maintains the structural integrity of the skin's tissues, and stimulates collagen production, boosting thickness and firmness. When considering the "plumping" effect of hyaluronic acid in this nighttime moisturizer, Dr. Shamban says to think about the volume difference between a dry sponge and a wet sponge. "When wet, the sponge expands to occupy more space, giving a plumping effect," she says. The brand is known for adding melatonin to its products, which serves as an antioxidant to offset the effects of free radicals throughout the day.

More to know

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• Key ingredients: melatonin, hyaluronic acid, carnosine
• Fragrance-free: yes

Best for Expression Lines: Revision Skincare Revox 7

Revision Skincare

Revox 7

$150

Dermstore

Why we love it: Want your skin care to work smarter, not harder? Try Revision Skincare’s Revox 7, which Rachel Nazarian, MD, a board-certified dermatologist at Schweiger Dermatology in New York City, calls "a fantastic product to help with wrinkles because it goes straight to the source." The cocktail of seven peptides targets the wrinkle-causing muscles to smooth out seven different expression lines.. Plus, she says, "It can be applied with your own moisturizer or under makeup twice a day."

For a targeted treatment, derms also love the Revision Skincare Revox Line Relaxer, which is a mainstay for board-certified dermatologist Ope Ofodile, MD, who previously shared her skin-care routine with Allure.

More to know

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• Key ingredients: peptides, gamma-aminobutyric acid
• Fragrance-free: yes

Best Drugstore: Olay Regenerist Micro-Sculpting Cream

Olay

Regenerist Micro-Sculpting Cream

$27 $20 (26% off)

Amazon

$25

Walmart

Why we love it: Chances are you’ve seen—or maybe even finished—this iconic red jar; in that case, consider this your reminder to grab a refill. Olay Regenerist Micro-Sculpting Cream has earned a loyal following (plus three Allure Readers’ Choice Awards) for visibly firming, lifting, and smoothing skin without a luxury price tag. “It has a published peer-reviewed study that showed improvement in skin quality comparable to a retinoid,” Heather Woolery-Lloyd, MD, a board-certified dermatologist in Miami, previously told Allure. A combo of amino-peptides, niacinamide, and hyaluronic acid that plumps skin with moisture while helping soften the look of fine lines over time. It feels rich and cushiony going on, sinks in quickly for all skin types, and leaves your complexion bouncy and hydrated.

Tester feedback from former deputy beauty director Elizabeth Siegel

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“My new lines are less noticeable, and the deeper wrinkles I've had for years are looking a little better. The redness I'm prone to on my cheeks, nose, and forehead is way (way, way) better, too.” —Elizabeth Siegel, former deputy beauty director

More to know

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• Key ingredients: peptides, niacinamide, hyaluronic acid
• Fragrance-free: no

Frequently Asked Questions

What causes skin aging?

As we age, our skin experiences two forms of aging: extrinsic aging (which refers to external or environmental causes of aging like pollution, smoke, and, most commonly, sun exposure) and intrinsic aging (or chronological aging, a genetically determined process that leads to loss of collagen and elastin in the skin). "Both types of aging lead to wrinkles, sagging, and other signs of maturity," says Dr. Curcio.

When will I start seeing results from wrinkle creams?

You won't see results from any skin product overnight, so your expectations have to be realistic. "If you are looking for benefits, including the improvement in skin tone, texture, redness, and reduction in fine lines and wrinkles, it usually takes eight to 12 weeks of twice-daily application with a moisturizer to see results," says Dr. Curcio. In other words, patience is a virtue. And, the earlier you start using wrinkle cream, the better. "Used early and consistently, a wrinkle cream can reduce the appearance of many of the fine lines and wrinkles we see developing in our 30s that become more permanent in our 40s and 50s," says Dr. Shamban. Final PSA: Even the best wrinkle cream is only half the equation—you need a daily sunscreen with at least SPF 30 if you want those results to actually stick.

What in-office treatments target wrinkles?

If you're looking for a more intensive method of minimizing wrinkles, Patricia Oyetakin, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in Ontario, Canada recommends combining your topical products with cosmetic procedures like Botox or laser resurfacing. These can promote collagen production on a deeper level than the treatment alone.

Meet the experts

• Peter Bittar, MD, a board-certified dermatologist at Miami Dermatology & Laser Institute based in Miami
• Natalie M. Curcio, MD, is a board-certified dermatologist based in Nashville
• Whitney Hovenic, MD, a board-certified dermatologist and co-founder of Spooge based in Reno, Nevada
• Rachel Nazarian, MD, is a board-certified dermatologist at Schweiger Dermatology based in New York City
• Ope Ofodile, MD, is a board-certified dermatologist based in Atlanta
• Patricia Oyetakin, MD, is a board-certified dermatologist based in Ontario, Canada
• Melanie Palm, MD, is a board-certified dermatologist based in San Diego
• Ava Shamban, MD, is a board-certified dermatologist based in Los Angeles

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

Our staff and testers

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

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

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Using the best OSEA products is like taking a trip to Malibu’s coast without ever leaving your bathroom. Pronounced oh-SEE-uh, the brand’s name stands for Ocean, Sun, Earth, and Atmosphere, a nod to its holistic approach to wellness, nature, and skin care. OSEA’s story actually starts long before it became a skin-care line, when the founder’s grandmother recovered from an injury through daily sea swims and seaweed treatments. The family became convinced that the ocean wasn’t just a way to relax—it was restorative. That idea became the backbone of OSEA, with undaria algae (a mineral-rich seaweed rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and firming benefits) appearing in so many of its formulations.

The marine-based ingredients are the reason why their body oil became a viral bestseller, why their exfoliators leave skin insanely smooth, and why the body butter gives skin that just-got-back-from-the-beach glow—no matter where you live. Ahead, we rounded up our favorite OSEA face and body products that leave skin feeling soft, radiant, and a little more California cool.

Our Top OSEA Picks

• Sea the Glow: Undaria Algae Body Oil, $52
• Dive Into Deep Moisture: Undaria Algae Body Butter, $54
• Coast is Clear: Dream Night Cream, $68
• Go with the Flow: Dream Night Serum, $88
• Let’s Dew This: Hyaluronic Body Serum, $48
• A Shore Thing: Undaria Algae Body Wash, $32
• Roll with the Tide: Ocean Eyes, $58
• Smooth Sailing: Seaglow Resurfacing Scrub, $58
• Make a Splash: Hyaluronic Lip Booster Oil, $28

Frequently Asked QuestionsAccordionItemContainerButtonLargeChevron

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

Sea the Glow: Undaria Algae Body Oil

Osea

Undaria Algae Body Oil

$52

Osea

$52

Amazon

$52

Nordstrom

Why it's worth it: If you want an all-over glow year-round (even if your skin is currently hiding under a chunky sweater—you still know it’s there), this 2025 Best of Beauty Award winner is the body oil to beat. Undaria Algae Body Oil’s star ingredient, undaria seaweed, is packed with antioxidants and minerals that help visibly firm and smooth skin over time. It’s blended with moisture-locking sunflower seed oil, white lupin flower extract to improve elasticity, and passionfruit oil for a hit of lightweight, never-greasy nourishment. The silky texture melts fast, leaving behind a hydrated, subtle sheen and a fresh, citrusy scent. One pump really does go a long way, thanks to its concentrated formula.

Allure contributing commerce writer Jailynn Taylor applying the OSEA Undaria Algae Body Oil

Jailynn Tayler

Allure contributing commerce editor Deanna Pai applying the OSEA Undaria Algae Body Oil

Deanna Pai

Tester feedback from contributor Jailynn Taylor

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“I’m officially on my third bottle of OSEA’s Undaria Algae Body Oil, and yes, it’s that good. What I love most is the shine it offers from head to toe. It’s not greasy or glittery, just this subtle, healthy, natural-looking glow. The scent is super light and fresh, so it never competes with my perfume. And it absorbs fast, which is a nonnegotiable for me. I use it post-shower, and my skin feels baby soft and stays hydrated all day.” —Jailynn Taylor, contributor

Tester feedback from contributing commerce editor Deanna Pai

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“I'm not a diehard body-oil user, but when I'm pregnant, it becomes a must-have. I've been slathering this stuff on my belly, and it's just as good as everyone says. It's rich and viscous in a satisfying way—unlike, say, a dry oil—but sinks in so fast that it has yet to stain any of my clothes. And the scent is a little fruity, a little herbal, but all-around uplifting, making it perfect for slathering on before I start my day.” —Deanna Pai, contributing commerce editor

More to know

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• Key ingredients: sunflower seed oil, undaria seaweed, lupin flower, passionfruit oil
• Who it's for: people with dry skin
• Fragrance-free: no

Dive Into Deep Moisture: Undaria Algae Body Butter

Osea

Undaria Algae Body Butter

$54

Osea

$54

Amazon

$54

Nordstrom

Allure creative producer Sydney Malone applying the OSEA Undaria Algae Body Butter

Sydney Malone

Why it’s worth it: If this jar looks familiar, it’s because we recently crowned it our favorite body butter of all time. Undaria Algae Body Butter is the richer, whipped version of the brand’s fan-favorite body oil, delivering long-lasting moisture without feeling greasy or heavy. The formula includes nourishing “ingredients like shea butter and ceramides, which help repair the skin’s moisture barrier,” Michael H. Gold, MD, a board-certified dermatologist in Nashville, previously told Allure. If you’re dealing with signs of aging, the blend of undaria seaweed extract and caffeine helps visibly firm and refine texture over time, while oat extract and aloe step in to calm dryness and irritation (so, a win for sensitive skin, too). But no matter where you fall on the skin-type spectrum, the hydration payoff is the same: plush, moisturized skin that stays soft for up to 72 hours.

Tester feedback from creative producer Sydney Malone

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“This body butter smells absolutely divine—it's got a mild enough scent as to not overwhelm, but rather to make you feel luxurious and moisturized. I appreciate how thick this cream is because with just one application, I feel like I wouldn't need to use body lotion again until tomorrow! Perfect for dry or winter weather, especially for us dry skin girlies.” —Sydney Malone, creative producer

More to know

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• Key ingredients: undaria seaweed, shea butter, ceramides,
• Who it's for: people with dry skin or signs of aging (crepiness, loss of firmness)
• Fragrance-free: no

Coast is Clear: Dream Night Cream

Osea

Dream Night Cream

$68

Osea

$68

Amazon

$68

Nordstrom

Allure senior art director Ingrid Fowler applying the OSEA Dream Night Cream

Ingrid Fowler

Why it's worth it: Retinol may be the gold standard in skin-care products for smoothing fine lines, clearing up acne, and fading dark spots, but not everyone’s skin can handle the side effects. So it tracks that a brand built on sea-healing and skin wellness would dream up a night cream that delivers similar results without the sting. The Dream Night Cream pairs an algae-derived bio-retinol alternative (think: same line-smoothing perks as traditional retinol, but gentler) with rich, cushiony hydrators like shea butter, squalane, macadamia seed oil, and safflower seed oil to deeply moisturize while you sleep. A blend of calming botanicals (oat kernel flour, lavender, rosemary, and rice bran helps soothe stressed-out skin, while plant-based peptides and blue-green algae extract result in a more even texture by morning.

Tester feedback from senior art director Ingrid Fowler

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“This silky night cream is just thick enough to really lock in moisture, but not too thick. (You're not left with the heavy feeling of too much product.) It absorbs nicely and leaves my skin feeling super moisturized into the next day!” —Ingrid Fowler, senior art director

More to know

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• Key ingredients: bio-retinol, king of bitters, lavender oil, shea butter
• Who it's for: people with mature or dry skin
• Fragrance-free: no

Go With the Flow: Dream Night Serum

Osea

Dream Night Serum

$88

Osea

$88

Amazon

$88

Nordstrom

Allure contributing commerce writer Christa Joanna Lee applying the OSEA Dream Night Serum

Christa Joanna Lee

Why it's worth it: If you love the benefits of retinol but prefer a silky serum over a richer cream, the Dream Night Serum is your speed (and yes, you can layer it under the Dream Night Cream if you’re feeling extra). It uses the same bio-retinol alternative as the moisturizer, plus firming peptides to help smooth fine lines and improve skin texture while you sleep. In addition to being one of our favorite retinol-style treatments, it also doubles as a hyaluronic acid serum thanks to multiple forms of HA that pull in moisture, so skin looks more bouncy by the a.m. A blend of cucumber water, watermelon and apple extracts, plus red and green algae, helps hydrate, while lavender adds a soft, calming touch to your skin-care routine.

Tester feedback from contributing commerce writer Christa Joanna Lee

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“I’m a little obsessed with lavender—I use a lavender pillow spray every night—so this serum’s scent feels instantly comforting. The texture is slightly thicker than most serums I’ve tried (a plus, since it doesn’t slip right out of the dropper), and it sinks in within seconds. Even with bio-retinol in the mix—the brand doesn’t disclose the percentage—I had zero irritation on my sensitive skin.” —Christa Joanna Lee, contributing commerce writer

More to know

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• Key ingredients: hyaluronic acid, bio-retinol (extracted from green microalgae), red seaweed, peptides
• Who it's for: people with loss of skin firmness and elasticity
• Fragrance-free: no

Let’s Dew This: Hyaluronic Body Serum

Osea

Hyaluronic Body Serum

$48

Osea

$48

Amazon

$48

Nordstrom

Allure senior commerce editor Shanna Shipin applying the OSEA Hyaluronic Body Serum on her arm

Shanna Shipin

Why it's worth it: We don’t know exactly how a brand measures skin hydration increasing by 161%, but in Allure editor speak, it means your skin goes from “desert dry” to “dewy dumpling” pretty fast. That’s thanks to the five molecular weights of hyaluronic acid inside this 2024 Best of Beauty Award winner, which hydrate on multiple levels instead of just sitting on top of skin like a basic lotion. It’s also National Eczema Association-accepted, making it a high-performance body treatment that’s gentle enough for sensitive, reactive skin. Niacinamide helps soothe redness and strengthen the skin barrier, green microalgae brings antioxidant support, vegan peptides help improve firmness and texture over time, and aloe adds lightweight, calming hydration.

Tester feedback from senior commerce director Shanna Shipin

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“Whenever possible, I moisturize my body like my face: With a hyaluronic acid serum—and this one from OSEA is my all-time favorite. I'll admit that part of what I love is the packaging. The serene green, the fogged glass, and the pump top that actually works. (By the way, it lets just enough serum out of the bottle without getting clogged—a feat for a thin formula like this!). This serum is so hydrating that you could just as well leave it without a more occlusive buttery layer, especially when it's irritatingly hot or humid. Still, I do like to follow up with an actual lotion afterward. You know what works beautifully over this? The brand's body butter; why not just go full-out seaweed wrap? Back to the formula: There are peptides to plump the skin, along with the brand's signature blue-green algae, which is touted as a kind of nourishing superfood. And for fellow sensitive-skin people out there, the serum is fragrance-free! I was able to use it on my non-preggo, preggo, and postpartum body without irritating my easily inflamed skin.” —Shanna Shipin, senior commerce director

More to know

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• Key ingredients: hyaluronic acid, niacinamide, green microalgae, vegan peptides, aloe
• Who it's for: people with dry, sensitive skin
• Fragrance-free: yes

A Shore Thing: Undaria Algae Body Wash

Osea

Undaria Algae Body Wash

$32

Osea

$32

Amazon

$32

Nordstrom

Allure commerce editor Sarah Han using the OSEA Undaria Algae Body Wash

Sarah Han

Why it's worth it: If we could have a whole ocean of this algae body wash, we’d happily swim in it, but for now, we’ll settle for lathering it on in the shower. Undaria Algae Body Wash uses the brand's signature antioxidant-rich seaweed from the beloved body oil, turning it into a silky gel cleanser that hydrates as it cleans. The formula uses gentle, plant- and coconut-based surfactants (read: no stripping suds), plus essential oils (including jojoba, grapefruit, and avocado) to leave skin soft and moisture locked in long after you’ve towel-dried. (P.S. For the purposes of an easier, mess-free demo, we used our hands.)

Tester feedback from commerce editor Sarah Han

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“I won't lie: The scent is the selling point for me. The grapefruit and lime notes feel like a gentle wake-up call and boost my mood every time I use it. The formula itself is so silky and has the perfect amount of slip, and of course, it's filled with moisturizing powerhouses, like the brand's signature undaria seaweed, aloe, glycerin, and jojoba oil that leave my skin feeling as soft as a baby's bum. Once I'm out of the shower and dried off, I follow up with the Hyaluronic Body Serum because it's one of the few nonsticky body-care products my impatient self tolerates. It's the perfect recipe for long-lasting hydration.” —Sarah Han, commerce editor

More to know

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• Key ingredients: undaria seaweed, aloe, glycerin, jojoba oil
• Who it's for: everyone, especially if you have dry, rough skin
• Fragrance-free: no

Roll with the Tide: Ocean Eyes Serum

Osea

Ocean Eyes

$58

Osea

$58

Amazon

$58

Nordstrom

Shipin applying the OSEA Ocean Eyes Serum

Shanna Shipin

Why it's worth it: If the Billie Eilish song starts playing in your head every time you reach for this serum, consider it part of the experience. A 2022 Best of Beauty Award winner, Ocean Eyes is a cooling rollerball gel that instantly wakes up tired undereyes. The formula pairs two types of seaweed (undaria and red algae) with caffeine to help depuff and firm, while hyaluronic acid draws in moisture for a smoother, plumper look. Peptides and quinoa seed extract target fine lines and dark circles over time, and albizia bark extract helps visibly counter any signs you stayed up late doom-scrolling.

Tester feedback from Shipin

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“I am convinced that every eye treatment should include a cooling rollerball, thanks to this product. I love that this is a truly weightless formula that still packs a punch and works magic to make my undereyes instantly appear bouncier. I chalk it up to the combination of peptides and the metal applicator, which work together to tighten and plump up the skin. It's such fun to use (and who isn't up for injecting some levity into a hard-working skin-care routine?!) and very travel-friendly. Hey, it's nice that you can count on bouncy undereyes even when you're running on nothing but jet lag fumes!” —Shanna Shipin, senior commerce director

More to know

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• Key ingredients: undaria seaweed, red algae, hyaluronic acid, caffeine, peptides
• Who it's for: people with crow’s feet, undereye puffiness, or dark circles
• Fragrance-free: yes

Smooth Sailing: Seaglow Resurfacing Scrub

Osea

Seaglow Resurfacing Scrub

$58

Osea

$58

Amazon

$58

Nordstrom

Fowler applying the OSEA Seaglow Resurfacing Scrub

Ingrid Fowler

Why it's worth it: You know how your feet somehow feel baby-smooth after a day at the beach, like the sand secretly gave you a free exfoliation? The Seaglow Resurfacing Scrub is that same idea—just far more refined, and meant for your face. The formula uses a blend of physical exfoliants (volcanic sand, finely milled rice powder, bentonite, and sea silt) to buff away dullness without feeling scratchy, while glycerin and cloudberry seed oil keep skin cushioned and soft. A blend of hibiscus flower extract, turmeric, and spirulina adds antioxidant support, caffeine helps energize the skin, and fruit enzymes from kiwi and grapefruit give an extra glow boost. Use this a couple of times a week for smoother, brighter skin (without getting sunburnt and sand in awkward places).

Tester feedback from Fowler

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“This scrub makes my skin feel super smooth. It exfoliates very well but is gentle enough that my skin doesn't feel stripped. I love that it doesn't dissolve too quickly, so you can really get a good scrub. Sometimes scrubs can leave a filmy feeling after use, and this doesn't at all — it lathers nicely, so my face feels very fresh and cleansed after use.” —Fowler, senior art director

More to know

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• Key ingredients: rice, clay powder, bentonite, volcanic sand, sea silt algae, cloudberry seed oil
• Who it's for: people with rough, dull, and uneven skin
• Fragrance-free: yes

Make a Splash: Hyaluronic Lip Booster Oil

Osea

Hyaluronic Lip Booster Oil

$28

Osea

$28

Nordstrom

$28

Ulta Beauty

Shipin applying the OSEA Hyaluronic Lip Booster Oil

Shanna Shipin

Why it’s worth it: Why is it that the second temperatures dip below 70, all the moisture seems to vanish from our lips? The brand’s Hyaluronic Lip Booster Oil is part oil, part treatment, and all hydration. This cushiony formula uses sodium hyaluronate (a form of hyaluronic acid) to pull in moisture and plump the lips, while castor seed and meadowfoam oils create a smooth, glossy shine. Rice bran and rosemary extracts deliver antioxidant protection, while sunflower and lupin seed oils target dryness from another angle—deeply nourishing to leave lips soft, conditioned, and visibly healthier.

Tester feedback from Shipin

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"I know this may look, and be billed as, a kind of lip gloss—but it is so much more than that. It's this lovely balm-like product that actually enrobes your lips in lasting nourishment and hydration. Honestly, I'm talking hours of a supple pout that smells faintly citrus-y. It doesn't have a tint or anything, but because the Booster is so nourishing, it brings out your lips' natural color. You can't talk about this product (or any OSEA product, really) without also speaking to the packaging. The formula is a lovely honey color and looks so luxe in its frosted glass case, and the doe-foot applicator is so special. I've tried many applicators in my time as a beauty editor, and this is a high-quality one that is firm, plush, and draws just enough of the ‘booster’ out of the bottle and onto your lips—no potential for the product to flick onto your shirt." — Shipin, senior commerce director

More to know

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• Key ingredients: sea fern, hyaluronic acid, castor seed oil, meadowfoam seed oil
• Who it's for: people with dry lips
• Fragrance-free: no

Frequently Asked Questions

How we test and review products

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

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

Our staff and testers

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

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

Source images: Courtesy of @sansungnails, @nailartbyqueenieSave StorySave this storySave StorySave this story

I hate long nail appointments. I get restless when sitting for extended periods with nothing to do. (I can’t even scroll on my phone!) That’s why I have typically avoided nail art unless it was for a special occasion—that is, until I discovered velvet nails. Velvet nails mimic the fuzzy texture of your favorite holiday dress, but with an added touch of sparkle.

Velvet nails always come back during the holiday season, but this year, the look is making its rounds early. It’s easy to see why: "The effect is magical," says Hannah Lee, a nail artist in Atlanta. “The way the light plays off the magnet-activated texture gives them a depth that feels modern and refined.” It’s also easy to combine with other nail trends for a look that has a bit more impact.

Another reason this manicure’s popularity might be rising now is the impending recession. Even some of us Allure editors have found ourselves opting out of “tier-three” (intricate) nail art looks for financial reasons. An allover velvet manicure is usually classified as “tier one” (simple) at salons, even if the effect is as eye-catching as a tier-three look.

For context, in a major city like New York, detailed nail art can run you about $14 per nail, on top of the $150 price for a basic gel manicure with nail extensions. At Art Nail NYC, where I got my first allover velvet set, the mani was considerably more affordable (and less time-consuming) because it was classified as a simple design.

You’ll likely hear people call these cat-eye nails. They’re not wrong; the way we see it, though, all cat-eye nails are velvet, but not all velvet nails are cat-eye. The distinction is in how the shimmering magnetic particles are dispersed. The particles in cat-eye nails usually form a straight or diagonal line (mimicking the look of a cat’s eye), while the particles in velvet nails can be spread out uniformly or in patterns like hearts and swirls.

Courtesy of @sabletoothtigerCourtesy of @heygreatnailsThe modern velvet manicure

According to Eunice Park, brand development and education director at Aprés Nail, velvet nails now look very different than those of the past. “When I was in nail school in 2015, the magnetic particles were a lot chunkier and were against a black base,” she explains, noting that the finished look was always dark. “You’d see black with emerald green or dark purple glitter.”

Magnetic polish formulas needed a black base for the glitter particles to appear shinier, Park continues. Now, brands are formulating velvet polishes with finer magnetic particles (so there are more of them), so the glitter appears softer and more subtle—but with just as much shine. “I think that's what's extending the velvet nail-trend's life,” she says. “You're getting all these different variants of the look.”

In addition to more sophisticated nail polish formulas, we’re seeing manicurists get more creative with their art. They have been pairing the velvet finish with “chrome, subtle jewels, or artistic sculptural,” says Lupita Alonso, a nail artist in Stone Park, Illinois. We’ve also seen it with heart motifs and manipulated into ombré designs. “These details make it look more updated and modern.”

How to create velvet nails

Sure, the appointment can be shorter than other nail art appointments, but I understand if you still want to skip the salon trip completely and DIY your velvet nails. You’ll need a few things, though, like a base coat, topcoat, magnetic nail polish, and a magnetic wand. (Mooncat sells the magnetic wand on its own, but will include one for free if your order includes a magnetic polish.)

First, coat your nails with a base polish before applying a magnetic polish. Then, use a magnet to disperse the shimmery particles across the nail to create that glistening velvet effect. Holding the magnet at the tip or side of the nail creates the velvet effect, while holding it above the nail's center drags the particles into a straight line for the traditional cat-eye look.

If you're not ready to wield a magnetic wand, Bana Jarjour, a Los Angeles-based nail artist, suggests trying gel nail strips. (Note: This method does require you have an LED lamp.) She recommends the Dashing Diva Glaze strips, which come pre-painted with a velvet design. All you need to do is apply the adhesive strip to your nail, cut it to your desired length, cure it with an LED lamp, and file it into the shape you want. We also recommend press-ons; Static Nails has a velvet press-on set that will give you a salon-level manicure in seconds.

Looking for inspiration? Scroll for some of the prettiest velvet nail ideas, including looks that are simple enough to do at home and works of art you might want a professional to help create.

Velvet Nails Inspiration

Plaid velvet nailsCourtesy of @nailartbyqueenieVelvet polka-dot nailsCourtesy of @nailartbyqueenieSheer velvet nailsCourtesy of @overgloweditVelvet frame nailsCourtesy of @nailartbyqueenieCourtesy of @nailsbyshirlecropVelvet French nailsCourtesy of @gracielanailsCourtesy of @nailartbyqueenieOmbré velvet nailsCourtesy of @nailartbyqueenieGreen-and-black velvet nailsCourtesy of @sofiamiroslavanailsCourtesy of @nailsbyshaniVelvet amethyst frame nailsInstagram / @heygreatnailsVelvet nails with 3D embellishmentsCourtesy of @sansungnailsCourtesy of @sansungnailsVelvet aura nailsCourtesy of @sansungnailsChrome velvet nailsCourtesy of @sansungnailsInstagram / @nailartbyqueenie

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

The best moisturizing hand washes are non-negotiable in our everyday routines. Especially with flu season kicking in, we’re constantly washing our hands, and the last thing we need is anything that strips our skin each time. So anything on our counter has to do more than just clean; it needs to intensely hydrate—we’re talking formulas loaded with glycerin, vitamins, and antioxidants that leave hands feeling softer than before you even washed them. Bonus points for beautiful packaging, a satisfying foam, and an enticing scent that actually lingers. Our editors have put hundreds of hand soaps to the test, and here are the ones we use every day—and think you should, too!

Our Top Moisturizing Hand Washes

• Hollywood Hands: Homecourt Hand Wash, $34
• Vine and Dandy: Flamingo Estate Roma Heirloom Tomato Hand Soap, $48
• Foam Sweet Foam: Native Liquid Hand Soap, $6
• Moisture Maven: Youth to the People Superfood Antioxidant Hand Wash, $39
• Polish and Pamper: Aesop Reverence Aromatique Hand Wash, $46
• A Fresh Take: Grown Alchemist Revitalize Hand Wash, $39
• Hand Spa in a Bottle: Evolvetogether Restorative Hand Wash, $58

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

Hollywood Hands: Homecourt Hand Wash

Homecourt

Hand Wash

$34

Amazon

$34

Nordstrom

Why it’s worth it: Founded by actress Courteney Cox, Homecourt is all about making your space—and yourself—smell amazing. From candles to room sprays to hand wash, every product comes in six fresh, clean scents, each with its own personality. Cece, the founder’s personal favorite, blends cinnamon, cardamom, and vetiver for a warm, cozy “homeyie” vibe. The hand wash formula itself is just as thoughtful: argan oil and Australian hibiscus flower moisturize while coconut-derived surfactants gently lift dirt and debris, leaving your hands soft, hydrated, and lightly scented.

Tester feedback from commerce writer Lily Wohlner

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“I’m a sucker for anything that smells amazing, and Homecourt nails it every time. But what really gets me is how much care goes into the formula itself—the moisturizing agents leave my hands feeling like I just had a mini hand massage, not the usual winter dryness situation.” —Lily Wohlner, commerce writer

More to know

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• Key ingredients: Australian hibiscus flower, coconut-derived surfactants, argan oil
• Scents: 6 (Cece, Neroli Leaf, Steeped Rose, Mandarin Basile, Cipres Mint, Balsam Fireplace)

Vine and Dandy: Flamingo Estate Roma Heirloom Tomato Hand Soap

Flamingo Estate

Roma Heirloom Tomato Hand Soap

$48

Nordstrom

$48

Flamingo Estate

Why it’s worth it: Flamingo Estate’s Roma Heirloom Tomato Hand Soap uses avocado and olive oils to deeply hydrate, leaving hands soft and supple. But the real magic is in the scent: Wild tarragon and black pepper essential oils add a subtle, spicy kick that balances the fresh heirloom tomato notes. It might sound like “food in a bottle,” but the fragrance comes together more like a sun-warmed garden than a simmering soup. If fresh, green scents are your thing, this one will be your new obsession.

Tester feedback from commerce editor Sarah Han

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“I've never fancied myself a herbaceous girl but every time I visit my parents (and it's spring or summer), I enjoy helping my mom pluck tomatoes from her modest backyard garden—so I guess I'm being converted! That, and as I get older, I've really gotten into fancy-ish hand soaps—it might see frivolous but they really elevate the everyday (every few hours?) experience. Obviously the chic glass bottle of the Heirloom Tomato Hand Soap is a selling point, but what's inside is arguably better. Avocado and olive oils give the formula that sensorial slip and leave my hands feeling baby-soft, even after a very thorough 20-second cleanse. (Sickness, stay away!) Before I lather, I like bringing my palms up to my nose and giving the soap a whiff. That little kick of wild tarragon and black pepper? A lovely pick-me-up anytime of the day.” —Sarah Han, commerce editor

More to know

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• Key ingredients: avocado oil, olive oil, tarragon oil, black pepper oil
• Scents: 1

Foam Sweet Foam: Native Liquid Hand Soap

Native

Liquid Hand Soap

$6

Walmart

$6

Native

Why it’s worth it: Thanks to glycerin, Native’s Liquid Hand Soap is gentle and won’t strip your skin—yet it still builds into a rich, foamy lather that leaves hands feeling clean and refreshed. It comes in four scents, with the gourmand Coconut & Vanilla being our top pick —it also mentally transports us to a tropical island, a plus especially in the thick of winter. Think a cocktail of coconut, pineapple, citrus, and vanilla with just one lathery pump.

Tester feedback from associate beauty editor Annie Blay-Tettey

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“I've been a fan of Native body washes for a while now (the Coconut & Vanilla scent is my favorite), so I was excited to hear that the brand was launching hand washes—andI have not been disappointed. I stuck by my favorite scent, and I love catching that sweet whiff every time I wash my hands. As great as it smells, it also leaves my hands feeling clean and soft—so wins all around.”—Annie Blay-Tettey, associate beauty editor

More to know

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• Key ingredients: glycerin
• Scents: 4 (Coconut & Vanilla, Cherry & Vanilla Macaron, Lavender & Rose, Sweet Peach & Nectar)

Moisture Maven: Youth to the People Superfood Antioxidant Hand Wash

Youth To The People

Superfood Antioxidant Hand Wash

$39

Anthropologie

$39

Youth to the People

Why it’s worth it: Just like its editor-beloved face and body wash counterparts, Youth To The People’s Superfood Antioxidant Hand Wash is all about hydration and gentle cleansing: sodium PCA, a humectant that helps replenish moisture levels, plant-based surfactants to cleanse without stripping, and a superfood blend made with kale, green tea, and spinach extracts that are rich in antioxidants. Its signature scent has garnered compliments from ourselves and our guests, with notes of fresh greens, cedarwood, and black pepper. And, to top it all off, the glass bottle sits pretty on your bathroom sink.

Tester feedback from senior news editor Nicola Dall’Asen

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“If you're like me and will buy Youth To The People's face wash just because you're obsessed with how it smells, I can't recommend buying the brand's hand wash more. With this massive bottle of soap (just over 13 ounces), you get months' worth of washes to indulge in the herbal, citrusy, peppery scent YTTP is known for. Every time I wash my hands, I'm not just getting clean with its soft, gentle lather—I'm having a full-blown aromatherapy moment that relaxes and refreshes me in equal force. In the colder months, I like to follow it up with the much lighter-scented Superfood hand lotion to prevent cracks and dry patches.”—Nicola Dall’Asen, senior news editor

More to know

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• Key ingredients: sodium PCA, plant-based surfactants, green tea, kale, spinach extracts
• Scents: 1

Polish and Pamper: Aesop Reverence Aromatique Hand Wash

Aesop

Reverence Aromatique Hand Wash

$46

Nordstrom

$46

Dermstore

$46

Revolve

Why it’s worth it: Luxury is the name of the game with Aesop’s Reverence Aromatique Hand Soap. Fine pumice particles gently polish and refresh the skin, while the gel base delivers a satisfying cleanse. Notes of vetiver and bergamot give this formula that signature apothecary vibe—rather than your typical clinical-smelling kitchen soap. Other notable skin-care ingredients include 1,2-Hexanediol, a humectant that helps attract moisture, and coconut acid for a deep, thorough cleanse.

Tester feedback from editor in chief Jessica Cruel

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“When I see this Aesop hand wash in a restaurant or hotel bathroom, it tells me everything I need to know. This soap is fancy. It has a smoky scent that still smells surprisingly fresh. The thing that won my heart (and hands) is the fine pumice in the formula, so you get a spa-level hand scrub in addition to antibacterial protection. The result is smooth hands that will illicit comments every time you shake.”—Jessica Cruel, editor in chief

More to know

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• Key ingredients: pumice, coconut acid, 1, 2-Hexanediol
• Scents: 1

A Fresh Take: Grown Alchemist Revitalize Hand Wash

Grown Alchemist

Revitalize Hand Wash

$39

Amazon

$39

Nordstrom

Why it’s worth it: Few things feel as good as coming home after a long day and washing your hands with Grown Alchemist’s Revitalize Hand Wash. You won’t find any harsh irritants here—just soft, smooth hands after every rinse. Natural surfactants create a gentle, low-foam lather that cleanses without stripping, while cedarwood, ylang-ylang, and tangerine essential oils leave behind a subtly fresh, spa-like scent.

Tester feedback from senior director of audience development Lexi Herrick

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“This hand wash is the epitome of luxury. It's quickly become a household favorite in my family—each time someone washes their hands at my home, they compliment the long-lasting scent! Each wash is very hydrating and gentle as well."—Lexi Herrick, senior director of audience development

More to know

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• Key ingredients: natural surfactants, essential oils
• Scents: 1

Hand Spa in a Bottle: Evolvetogether Restorative Hand Wash

Evolvetogether

Restorative Hand Wash

$58

Bluemercury

$58

Credo Beauty

Why it’s worth it: Available in four subtle fragrances, Evolvetogether’s Restorative Hand Wash doesn’t just smell incredible—it feels like a soft dream between your fingers. The formula features a moisturizing complex with betaine, glycerin, amino acids, and an antioxidant complex to deliver deep, lasting hydration, while reinforcing your skin’s natural barrier against environmental stressors. Plus, it comes in a sleek glass bottle designed to be reused with the brand’s refill system—because good habits should look (and feel) this good.

Tester feedback from senior beauty editor Jesa Marie Calaor

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“I’ve always paid attention to the small touches that make a space feel like a home. This hand wash is one of them. One pump of the gel (in this gorgeous and durable glass bottle) foams up to cleanse (but not strip) skin. It leaves behind a gorgeous scent, one that’ll make you and your guests say ‘ahh’ and feel like you’ve used something special.”—Jesa Marie Calaor, senior beauty editor

More to know

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• Key ingredients: betaine, glycerin, amino acids,
• Scents: 3 (Monaco, Taormina, Havana)

Smell You Later: Naomi After Cooking Hand Scrub

Naomi

After Cooking Hand Scrub

$27

Amazon

Why it’s worth it: For the home chefs of the group, have you ever wished for a soap that instantly erases the scent of whatever you’ve been cooking (looking at you, garlic and onion)? Created by chefs who know the struggle, Naomi’s After Cooking Hand Scrub uses bread yeast enzymes to break down tough odors like garlic and seafood. The scent is just as refreshing, with bergamot, black peppercorn, sandalwood, and ginger for that crisp, just-washed feeling. Plus, fine volcanic rock offers gentle exfoliation without dryness, while olive oil esters and vitamin E leave hands soft, smooth, and perfectly moisturized.

Tester feedback from Wohlner

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“I’m always in the kitchen, and after cutting up garlic or onions, I feel like the smell never fully goes away. So when I got a pitch about a hand wash that neutralizes lingering food odors, I was immediately intrigued. Fast-forward to now, and it’s the only soap I keep by my kitchen sink—not just because it smells incredible, but because it actually works to erase stubborn scents. Plus, the formula has crushed volcanic rock for a gentle exfoliation that cleans without stripping.”—Lily Wohlner, commerce writer

More to know

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• Key ingredients: bread yeast enzymes, olive oil esters, jojoba esters, vitamin E
• Scents: 3 (Cardamom & Iris, Bergamot & Pepper, No Fragance)

California, Bottled: D.S. & Durga Big Sur After Rain Hand Soap

D.S. & Durga

Big Sur After Rain Hand Soap

$55

Revolve

$55

Bluemercury

Why we love it: Driving along Big Sur—the rugged stretch of California coastline where rivers wind through misty mountains—is what we’d call a perfect day. And while nothing beats the real thing, D.S. & Durga’s Big Sur After Rain Hand Wash comes pretty close. With its fresh, rain-soaked florals and the soft, heady scent of fog rolling in from the sea, it’s the kind of fragrance that makes washing your hands feel like a mini escape. Antioxidant-rich apple fruit extract, plus vitamin E and glycerin, keep your skin hydrated while you soak in the sensory experience.

Tester feedback from former content director Kara McGrath

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“This hand soap is just luscious. It comes out nice and thick, more like a gel cream texture than a runny liquid soap. The lather is lovely, and doesn't leave my hands feeling incredibly dry. Plus, Big Sur After Rain—an invigorating blend of eucalyptus, magnolia, and the essence of coastal rain—is one of my favorite fragrances of all time, and it's particularly nice for hand soap. It smells like a fancy spa in the middle of a jungle.”—Kara McGrath, former content director

More to know

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• Key ingredients: apple fruit extract, glycerin, vitamin E
• Scents: 4 (Eucalyptus, Magnolia, Wet Wood, Pacific spray)

Provence in Your Palm: Compagnie de Provence Liquid Marseille Soap in Noir Black Tea

Compagnie de Provence

Liquid Marseille Soap in Noir Black Tea

$35

Amazon

Why we love it: Inspired by the centuries-old tradition of soap-making in Marseille, the 2025 Best of Beauty-winning Compagnie de Provence’s Liquid Marseille Soap brings a touch of the French Riviera straight to your sink. The sulfate-free formula is still crafted the old-fashioned way—boiled in a cauldron—then infused with skin-loving oils like coconut, olive, and sweet almond to cleanse without a hint of dryness. It lathers into a soft, creamy foam, and all of the brand’s scents leave behind the kind of elegant, sun-warmed scent that makes washing your hands feel like a small luxury.

Tester feedback from beauty closet associate Edward Horgan

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"A nice hand soap is a simple luxury often looked over until you experience it again and realize it's actually a necessity. The Noir Black Tea scent is my personal favorite and not just because of its beautiful, sleek, matte black packaging." —Edward Horgan, beauty closet associate

More to know

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• Key ingredients: coconut, olive, and sweet almond oil
• Scents: 1

Five-Star Clean: Hotel Lobby Hand Wash

Hotel Lobby Candle

Hand Wash

$48

Neiman Marcus

$56

Hotel Lobby

Why it’s worth it: Best known for its candles, Hotel Lobby has mastered the art of making your home smell like a five-star stay—and now, the brand’s hand washes bring that same luxury to your sink. Available in four sophisticated scents, each formula blends glycerin, aloe, and jojoba oil to hydrate and soften hands as you lather. It’s a foamy, fragrant dream that looks chic on your counter and will have guests asking, “Wait, what soap is this?”

Tester feedback from Wohlner

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“I have more hand soaps than I can count, but the moment I saw Hotel Lobby’s fluted clear packaging, I had to tear it open and try it. Weeks later, it’s still sitting on my bathroom sink, and I genuinely look forward to using it every time. I have the Signature Scent, which leans warm and ambery, but since I’m obsessed with all of their candles, I can only imagine the rest of their hand wash line smells just as divine.” —Lily Wohlner, commerce writer

More to know

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• Key ingredients: glycerin, aloe, jojoba oil
• Scent: 4

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Just like we’ve come to casually call all tissues “Kleenex” and every lip balm “ChapStick,” the brand name “Botox” has become the catch-all term for botulinum type A, the injectable neuromodulator known for relaxing wrinkles. If you read Allure regularly, you probably already know that there are numerous FDA-approved iterations of the stuff— Botox, of course, plus Dysport, Xeomin, Jeuveau, Daxxify, and Letybo—which you’ll find in the kits of qualified injectors like dermatologists and plastic surgeons. No other neurotoxin brands have been reviewed or approved by the U.S. Food & Drug Administration, and some questionable companies are counting on patients and unqualified injectors not knowing this—or worse, not caring.

On November 5, 2025, the FDA issued warning letters to more than a dozen companies for “[introducing] into interstate commerce unapproved and misbranded injectable botulinum toxin drug products.” In other words, these companies—most of which are based in Korea but also include businesses in America, China, and Panama—are accused of selling injectable formulas that purport to be botulinum type A. These brands have names like Liztox, Toxsta, Botulax, and Wutox, none of which are FDA-approved.

Funny as you might find those names, the experts aren’t laughing. “Botulinum toxin type A is a powerful neurotoxin, and without controlled studies on diffusion, dosing, and systemic effects, unapproved versions can be harmful,” says Palm Beach-based board-certified dermatologist Leslie Baumann, MD. That harm, according to Connecticut-based board-certified dermatologist Mona Gohara, MD, can include infection, facial drooping, and even paralysis.

And the substances in question might not even be botulinum toxin at all. “They should be treated as mystery liquids,” says cosmetic chemist Kelly Dobos. “It's well known that these types of products are drugs and have a known degree of risk, so it's rather unscrupulous for companies to be marketing these products in this way.”

How the hell could “mystery liquids” end up in patients’ faces? As Dr. Baumann explains, only licensed doctors, physician assistants, nurse practitioners, and registered nurses are allowed to buy FDA-approved injectable treatments, which they purchase directly from manufacturers and distributors that are also approved by the FDA (plus, they usually have to complete training specific to the brand of neuromodulator they’re administering). Dobos says it’s unlikely that any reputable, medically supervised facility would be using products like the ones the FDA sent warning letters about. It’s more likely, she adds, that they’d be used for what she calls “backroom Botox” procedures happening in salons, boutiques, or even in people’s private homes.

Anyone who fancies themselves an injector can go through unofficial channels—like the online retailers on the receiving end of these FDA warnings—to get unvetted products. “People who do not have a valid license to purchase the legal products or those trying to cut costs may buy them,” Dr. Baumann says. Their clients either trust that their injector is using an FDA-approved product or haven’t considered the safety and efficacy of whatever their injector is using. “In my opinion, that shows little regard for patient safety, because these [unapproved brands] have not been shown to be safe or effective by the FDA,” Dr. Baumann adds.

If news like this is encouraging you to be especially diligent when seeking out treatments like Botox—as it should—there are ways to be sure the stuff going in your face is safe. One of the easiest: “Patients can always ask to see the [product] box,” Dr. Gohara says. “Real products have holograms, lot numbers, and expiration dates that match the vial.”

While the authenticity of the product itself is obviously very important, the skills and credentials of the injector are just as critical to the safety of injectable treatments. “Patients should only trust qualified, licensed injectors who use FDA-approved products and understand how to administer them safely,” says Dr. Baumann. The best way you can ensure that’s the case is to see a board-certified dermatologist or facial plastic surgeon. “Board-certified dermatologists and other qualified injectors understand anatomy, dosing, and safety. It’s artistry grounded in medical training,” Dr. Gohara says. They don’t just know where to inject, she says; they also know how what’s happening on the surface connects to your overall health.

But that’s if you’re lucky enough to have access to a doctor in your area. If that’s not feasible, there are other solutions: ask all injectors for their credentials to ensure they’re a highly trained medical professional, like a physician assistant, nurse practitioner, or registered nurse.

Each expert Allure spoke to expressed concern that extends beyond the existence of these unapproved products. “I worry that consumers in pursuit of convenience or a good deal may be unknowingly putting themselves at serious risk,” Dobos says. It’s a warning echoed by Dr. Gohara: “This isn’t a knockoff Chanel bag. The stakes are way higher.”