View from the Vanity: Allure Best of Beauty 2026

The Process

Basically, it’s pay-to-play in the sense that there’s a flat application fee per category. You can’t win if you don’t submit. Notably, a product doesn’t have to have been launched during that year’s awards – it just has to be on the market and not limited edition. Both of these in combination do inherently mean that bigger brands can theoretically submit more products and within more categories (and also that smaller brands may be disproportionately impacted), but a standardized process is much more digestible for me. The simple reality is that someone has to (and should!) get paid for doing the investigative review work and is a common approach across industries and competitions. However, it also means that plenty of good, and even amazing, products are not included in the list, so it’s not all-encompassing and also shouldn’t be treated as an absolute authority.

In order to select the reviewers who will test the submitted products, a mix of employees and non-employees complete a survey outlining their applicable physical characteristics (hair type/texture, skin type, etc.) and product preferences. This information is then grouped such that there are three reviewers per category. Product reviewers are not necessarily experts or especially attuned to that product type/category, seemingly especially so if they are newer employees signing up for several categories. Reviewers could get selected for something they’re genuinely interested in or very much not but in both cases could very well could be approached from a “typical consumer” perspective rather than a hobbyist or expert. In my opinion, this isn’t necessarily a good or bad thing because that is absolutely how the majority of Allure’s readers likely interact with beauty products; it’s just something to be aware of if beauty products are something you enjoy trying as you may have a specific point of view.

For me, I far greater value the opinions of content creators who are both knowledgeable about the market within which they operate (skincare, makeup, household goods, etc.) and with whom my preferences either greatly align or those with whom I know my preferences strictly do not (as I typically like the items they don’t). If you’ve been here for any length of time, you will know that nuance is the name of my game, and I really evaluate why someone has the opinion they do of a product and translate that into my own life.

The Criticisms

Which brings me to my first critique: The web design.

The top links for Allure Best of Beauty bring you to this type of landing page and therefore directly to tables filled with affiliate links and no justification as to why something won. For me, this does an incredible disservice to the reader, despite Allure’s posturing that the reader is who they are trying to protect through this entire process.

• It feels a bit predatory to not have any photos – presumably in favor of a “cleaner” design – such that you can only confirm you’re looking at the correct product after clicking the affiliate link in this view.
• The “Shop All Winners” link accompanying each category gives the impression – and quite frankly, delivers on the reality – that you’re just being led to another shopping landing page. The key difference is that you can see products/product photos with some interspersed application videos and short sentences, but that often aren’t clear for which product they’re referencing and certainly aren’t the extended testimonials you’d typically be seeking.
• This type of approach comes across as prioritizing monetization over reader education. The reader has no obligation to blindly trust a publication, and such an approach to a landing page actually may make them trust it less… If they are able to clock affiliate link usage and already fully understand what that means.
• Given Allure’s broad audience base, the reader may not be overly familiar with current internet culture such that they’re also not overly familiar with affiliate links. If they miss the small-text disclosure sandwiched between the eye-drawing graphics and the larger-text shopping tables, they then have to be able to accurately identify the link pathways. If you’re reading this now, chances are that’s not you… but it very well could be your parents.

Please know this is not anything against affiliate links. You will have seen at the top of the post that I now offer them (all thanks to your support!) and have been personally using them from creators whose opinions I know are genuine because even if beauty content can be largely enjoyable work, building a trusted audience and truthfully conveying thoughts is undoubtedly still work – and as I mentioned above, people deserve to be paid for what comes back to them as a result of that work just as any salesperson in other industries does. This is really more about honesty and transparency because it feels they’ve done the bare minimum for abiding by the law rather than truly serving their reader base.

Anyways, I tend to think of myself as relatively savvy when it comes to searching the internet, and I genuinely had great difficulty finding the editorial breakdowns rather than shopping indexes by searching directly within the site. Because I believe you don’t blindly follow product recommendations and similarly wish to exercise discernment and reasoning… you can use this reference which displays the products by category and includes the editor’s reviews. (If you just want a very condensed view of the products alone, this reference displays them by index.) The last option is to find them through what I see as intentionally laborious – the article view page, where each category is listed as a separate article, and you can keep scrolling to find prior years.

The second critique is that they’re not overly clear on what I would consider to be important factors in both the products that are submitted and the conditions under which they were tested. They may collate this internally when dividing products amongst reviewers, but this is critical info that is by and large not shared with the reader. For instance, were all tests conducted in cooler NYC weather, where most of the editors are presumably based and when the weather is mostly cooler during the stated testing months of ~December through March? What are the applicable details of the editors, such as ages, skin types, specific concerns, and preferences? You get the idea.

The third is that they may encourage brands to submit a specific product to a specific category, potentially resulting in a brand winning an award that they otherwise couldn’t have been eligible for – and this is all the more likely when it was stated they may do this if a reviewer provides input that a relevant product they love is not currently in consideration and the category is otherwise lacking for contenders based on current testing results.

This may come across as nit-picky but no more nit-picky than I would expect of an entity that has huge influence over purchasing power to its large audience.

Now knowing that the exact categories and size of categories are dictated by Allure’s perception of the market, let’s see what 2026 had in store…

Skin

Face Cleanser

Best Balm Cleanser, The Inkey List Oat Balm Cleanser: I’ve not tried this but am intrigued to, especially after reading that this was recently reformulated. I heard a lot of reports that this was a good product but often separated in the tube, so it seems this may have been resolved? I use a balm cleanser nearly every time I wash my face at night to get rid of sunscreen and Asian beauty waterproof mascara, so it’s an essential in my routine. Since I tend to prefer balm cleanser over oil since it’s a little easier to control, I might pick this one up after I finish my current jar of Heimish All Clean Balm (a longtime fav) and the Innisfree Green Tea Cleansing Balm I recently purchased to follow it.

Sensitive Skin, Prequel Gleanser: This is 100% worth the buy. It’s a beautifully gentle cleanser that just glides over my skin and never irritates it. I personally use this in the morning to ensure I’m starting with a fresh base before starting my morning skincare, as I don’t like the feeling of water alone (though there’s nothing wrong with that either). It also doubles as a body cleanser and comes in a HUGE bottle for only $18. You’re going to struggle to find better value for money, especially from a dermatologist-founded brand.

Face Scrub

Best Facial Scrub, Isdin Essential Scrub: This brand came on my radar this year when people started discussing its sunscreen, though I have enough favorites in that category at the moment I don’t feel the need to try others right now. However, while I typically use chemical exfoliants, I do occasionally love a gentle physical exfoliant, which can be a bit difficult to find! The Outset had one that struck the right balance for me of the grit size/amount, but they unfortunately recently announced the brand’s closure. If you’ve tried this, or if you have another alternative, I’d love to hear your thoughts.

Essence

Best Liquid Facial Toner, Laneige Cream Skin Toner: This is… fine? I have nothing against this product, but it’s not the holy grail for me that it seems to be for others. If you’ve not ventured into milky toners before, this is a good introduction, though I’d recommend you purchase from an Asian beauty retailer (if you can) rather than Sephora given the price difference. The Haruharu Black Rice Probiotics Barrier Essence has been fitting this bill nicely for me lately.

Face Mist

Best Face Mist, Tower 28 SOS Rescue Spray: Please stop buying this, lol. To be clear, there is nothing wrong with this product whatsoever. Hypochlorous acid can be a really great product for a variety of reasons, and it seems it’s become a sufficiently trendy product that a number of companies are now making it. The issue is that you do not need to pay this price! While effective and easily accessible in the US, it is wildly expensive for what it is. You can just as easily find hypochlorous acid spray – with the same limited number of ingredients – at your local drugstore. Even Magic Molecule is now sold at Ulta, where you can get a bottle that is literally double the size for less than the standard 4 oz Tower 28.

Moisturizer

Sensitive Skin, Dieux Skin Mercy Recovery Cream: This stuff is no joke. I picked it up after seeing Devan (@devsday) post her before + after of her immediate redness reduction (as she also has rosacea) and was so impressed. Any time my skin is feeling super reactive or irritated – just happens sometimes with my skin type! – it does the trick nearly immediately.

Best Rich Facial Moisturizer, Medik8 Advanced Pro-Collagen+ Peptide Cream: This is another one I’m interested in. While I haven’t tried many Medik8 formulas, I’ve been pretty impressed with the ones I have because they deliver both results and cosmetically pleasing formulations. You don’t have to choose between something that will work and something that will feel nice on your skin! With this being described by Allure as “cushy and comforting” and with us moving into cooler weather, this sounds like a nice one for a healthy dose of hydration for my dry skin as well.

Eye Cream

Best Depuffing Eye Balm, Tula ‘Spresso Energizing Eye Balm: I should be the ideal customer for a product that claims to reduce puffiness and provide an optical trick of brightness, but I have no confidence this product delivers on those claims. Caffeine will tighten your skin temporarily, which can be nice during makeup application so that you know how and where product will sit as that fluid drains throughout the morning. However, I have trouble understanding the decision to have this product in different shades since they all basically seem to be clear and therefore don’t color correct. Additionally, apparently there’s glitter in this? Luminosity should come from skin that’s actually moisturized, not something that both won’t accomplish that and will enhance any texture. If you’re looking for a morning solution for puffy and/or dark eyes, I’d sooner recommend eye patches or a hydrating balm (like the d’Alba Double Serum Balm Stick) before following up with a light color corrector or concealer.

Face Sunscreen

Best Tinted Facial Sunscreen, Lightsaver Triplesome Serum SPF 40: While I appreciate the inclusion of different types of sunscreen, one of the reasons this one won is because it has “all the beautiful color payoff of a sheer base.” Simply put, you’re not going to get the advertised protection with a more pigmented sunscreen because you’re not going to put enough of it on, especially if it comes in only two shades. Let’s please stop with this narrative. Regardless, if you’re looking for a tinted SPF where I’ve seen people be able to physically put enough of it on without coverage issues, I’d recommend Merit The Uniform SPF 45. If you’re looking in general for cosmetically elegant and very effective sunscreen, I’m always going to redirect you to Asian beauty.

Skin-Care Devices

Best Hair Removal Tool, Beauty Power Eyebrow Razor: This looks identical to the first version of this I tried, which was from Sephora Collection, but those have apparently taken a massive nosedive in quality. If you already use something of this sort and are looking to upgrade, I now use the Dermaplaning Kit from StackedSkincare, which is more expensive but that I greatly prefer. This one both feels more balanced in hand to me, and most importantly, has two blade sizes – one that seems similar in size to the Beauty Power and another that is smaller for getting into tighter spaces, like between the brows. A Top Shelf Edit recommendation from a couple of years ago.

Best Skin Device for Depuffing, TheraFace Depuffing Wand: I’ve heard nothing but rave reviews on this tool but am so hesitant to spend the money that this one retails for. If you’ve tried this, can you tell me why you love (or hate) it?

Best Microcurrent Skin Device, NuFace Trinity+ Complete Set: I’ve similarly been interested in a microcurrent device, understanding that the effects are temporary, but have heard much more about ZIIP. I’m not sure if ZIIP shows up on my timeline more often because of influencer marketing or if more people actually prefer it though. For those who have tried these types of devices, do you have one you’d recommend?

Best Skin-Cooling Device, Shark ChillPill: Guys… it’s a portable misting fan. I get that it’s maybe a prettier one, but you’re legitimately going to pay 10x on this than a product that can function identically, still has a sleek profile, and actually has a smaller footprint. And that’s coming from someone who is happy to spend the money on devices when I think it’s worth it. Feel free to let me know if I’m missing something here because I know some people love it!

Note: It looks like retailers carry different colors, so I’ve linked the Shark site directly for the broadest availability of shades. It’s also slightly on sale there.

Best LED Skin Device, Shark CryoGlow LED Face Mask: No opinions on this one other than I trust Vanessa (@goalstogetglowing) with all light therapy-related topics, and TLDR: She still prefers the CurrentBody and Omnilux masks. See her LED face mask comparison post here.

Base

Primer

Best Mattifying Primer, Smashbox Photo Finish Pore-Vanishing Primer: I have dry skin, so this isn’t ever going to be a powerhouse category for me. However, I actually don’t enjoy having overly dewy skin and will occasionally use a matte primer if the foundation I’m using is more dewy or if I know it’s going to be a long day. Truthfully though, I’m shocked this wasn’t given to one of Danessa Myricks’ products, like the Yummy Skin Mattifying Water Powder Serum.

Best Illuminating Primer, Rhode Highlight Milk: I like this product, though I am actually a little surprised it won an award. The pearl is larger in arguably the most universal shade, Pearly Champagne, making it appear a little more shimmery, though the others I’ve tried deliver the expected luminous finish. Strictly from the name, it’s also worth noting that this is not as hydrating as the Glazing Milk, in case that’s what you were anticipating. If you’re looking for a luminous primer in a champagne shade, I’d recommend the Ciele Prime & Protect SPF 30+ Smoothing Primer in Mother.

Foundation

Best Balm Foundation, Danessa Myricks Beauty Yummy Skin Blurring Balm Powder: This is a great, truly effective product at oil-control and blurring. It comes in two universal translucent shades (one matte, one with radiance) and 21 tinted shades to use as foundation. What confuses me is how Allure categorized it for two reasons: 1) How is the Smashbox Pore-Vanishing Primer that won for “Best Mattifying Primer” different in benefits than this one – and even so, more effective than DMB? – and 2) there’s also a category for “Sheer Tint Face Balm” we’ll get to in a minute, which is also exactly what this is. Remember how I mentioned that the categories are dictated by Allure’s perception of the market? Allure… If DMB applied to all three of these categories, don’t do Danessa (or the readers) dirty by inventing new categories just to appease everyone.

Best Dewy Liquid Foundation, Dior Beauty Forever Skin Glow: Odd choice… Dior makes some great complexion products, but everyone I’ve listened to/read reviews from on the reformulation of this foundation has not been impressed and is basically no longer using it. In my opinion, the Dior Forever Natural Nude has always been prettier and with more skin-native undertones, though not as wide of a shade range. For non-Dior options, Natasha Denona’s Hy-Glam Foundation is gorgeous and has great coverage.

Best Matte Liquid Foundation, Estée Lauder Double Wear: Similarly, a reformulated foundation that has its prior fans shaking their heads. I never wore Double Wear simply because I never had a shade in it, but this was like, the, foundation if you needed full coverage and long wear. Now, I’ve heard it doesn’t have the same coverage or finish, to the point that it’s not even remotely the same product. Whenever I need a matte foundation, I’m grabbing the Rare Beauty True to Myself Natural Matte Longwear Foundation, though I’ve heard it’s just as good for oily skin too.

Best Stick Foundation, Jones Road Beauty Your Skin Foundation Stick: I wouldn’t call this the best foundation stick, strictly because this will be best for a particular preference – and this is why nuance matters. If you’re looking for lighter coverage and a more emollient, hydrating formula, you may very well love this, and I do think it’s a beautiful product. Caution against building it up too much though because it can get a bit “melty” with multiple layers. If you’re looking for higher coverage or less hydrating formula, I would look elsewhere – maybe Dior or Basma?

Best Skin Tint, It Cosmetics Do It All Sheer Tint Face Balm: This is a gorgeous product and seemingly one that can suit all skin types (though you might of course need different prep). I wasn’t expecting much when I initially picked it up, but it genuinely floored me. Such a beautiful one that I’ve even recommended it to my mom. I do hope they expand the shade range in both directions because while it is a skin tint, undertone and depth still make a difference. If It Cosmetics is less accessible to you, the L’Oreal Paris True Match Hyaluron Tinted Balm has been mentioned as a close alternative (if you have a shade). The new Dior Backstage Glow-Up Skin Tint is also fantastic, though it wasn’t released at the time of product submissions and is a liquid.

Concealer

Best Light-Coverage Concealer, Patrick Ta Beauty Major Skin Soft Blur Brightening Concealer: This is actually a really nice concealer, though I prefer to let it sit for a couple of minutes after application so that it slightly thickens and provides a bit more coverage. I do still find myself reaching for my Victoria Beckham Beauty concealer more often, partially because the shade is so fitting for me, but also because the formula is really nice to my skin in terms of both hydration and appearance. (Currently on sale at Violet Grey too!)

Best Medium-Coverage Concealer, Ilia Skin Blur Serum Concealer: I’ve heard more people prefer this product as a foundation rather than an undereye concealer, but everyone’s mileage may vary. Personally, I would have sooner selected the Sarah Creal Face Flex Concealer – though the shades are weird, and I hope she continues expanding the range! Natasha Denona’s Hy-Glam Concealer is also a great option that can flex from medium to full coverage.

Best Full-Coverage Concealer, Haus Labs Triclone Skin Tech Concealer: This is also a nice concealer, but for full coverage? Charlotte Tilbury Airbrush Flawless, 100%.

Highlighter

Best Powder Highlighter, Smashbox x Becca Shimmering Skin Perfector Pressed Highlighter: Be so for real right now. In 2026?! Don’t get me wrong, this was the highlighter to have back in the day (when it was under the now-shuttered Becca Cosmetics, and also primarily associated with who has since become known as a… problematic influencer, to say the least). I’m sure it’s still a great formula but was created for a very particular aesthetic – a high-intensity, metallic beam off the side of your face rather than any semblance of a natural glow. This is genuinely a very surprising pick and one that has since been iterated upon to bring us better and more flexible options. If you’re looking for beaming but smooth, Rare Beauty’s Positive Light Silky Touch Highlighter is a more sophisticated take, though they are known to be quite fragile. Personally, my favorites are the Dior Forever Glow Luminizer in the “halo” finishes (though the Backstage Glow Maximizer Face Palettes are popular every year as well) and the RMS ReDimension Daily Glow Palette for a more adjustable glow (reviewed here). Not to mention Asian beauty picks too!

It’s also interesting to me that a powder highlighter was chosen for the highlighter category over a liquid or cream considering their increasing popularity and ease of use. If you prefer a cream, you might instead enjoy the Lisa Eldridge Elevated Glow Balm Concentrate or the Chanel Baume Essentiel Multi-Use Glow Stick.

Lastly, if liquid highlighter is more your thing, I’d recommend either the Dior Forever Glow Star Filter (my favorite) or the Charlotte Tilbury Beauty Highlighter Wand.

Now to recover from my whiplash…

Blush

Best Cream Blush, Fwee Lip & Cheek Blurry Pudding Pot: I can absolutely see why these are so popular, from the cute packaging, wide variety of shades, and the blur that heavily silicone-based products can provide. I genuinely would have already tried this given the rave reviews if I had been able to find (through swatch photos/videos) a shade I felt would suit me, but they all seemed too something – too vibrant, too pink, you get the drift. Please let me know if I’m mistaken though, and if so, which shade(s) you would recommend!

In the meantime, I can’t recommend enough the MAC Glow Play blushes. They are a cream-to-powder vs. being a true cream, but I actually think that makes them more versatile and appreciated by more skin types. They’re this lovely cushiony, lightweight, buildable color that also give a bit of blur to your cheeks. Super flattering and with beautifully nuanced shades. Glossier and Rare Beauty have formulas that are similar as well but more matte in my opinion.

For a true cream, I haven’t had a recent fav from your typical mainstream retailers in a hot minute. I can say though that you’re not prying my Freshian Egg-Like Cream Blush, Naming Blurry Cheek Balm, or Lilybyred Luv Beam Cheek Balm out of my hands. Maybe this is my sign to check out Allure Korea’s Best of Beauty 2026?

Best Liquid Blush, Fenty Beauty Shake ‘N Play Buildable Liquid Blush: Huh? In fairness, I can’t speak on this one myself since I haven’t tried it. What I can speak on is that I’ve only heard one influencer mention it, which usually isn’t a good sign in itself, and that person did not enjoy it. I’m a little surprised that Rare Beauty didn’t win this one considering the popularity of that product and their commitment to expanding the shade range.

The one I have tried and love is the NARS Insatiable Longwearing Liquid Blush, and everyone I know who’s tried it says the same. It’s an incredibly lightweight and long lasting formula while still being so easy to use. Full review here if you missed it! If you’re seeking more muted shades, I can’t speak highly enough of the ABOUT_TONE Skin Layer Fit Blushers (reviewed here).

Best Powder Blush, Nars Talc-Free Powder Blush: The Nars blushes have been a solid staple in my collection for many, many years, and I’m happy to say that the reformulation didn’t compromise them for me. They’re also well-known for having great, nuanced shades across skin depths and undertones (just as with the liquid blush above!).

However, I would be remiss to not mention some other favs that are just as deserving. The YSL Make Me Blush formula is highly rated for good reason. They’ve been consistently expanding the shade range (which you know I appreciate if you’ve been here for a while), and the packaging is so luxurious that it’s a treat in itself to interact with. They can have strong pigment, so just be aware to go in gently while familiarizing yourself.

Ravie Beauty’s Endless Diffusion Baked Blush has also been a standout for me. This formula has been raved about for a while, and I finally picked one up with the release of “Heaven.” It’s an exceptional, buildable light pink that brings the freshest (but never overwhelming) brightness to a fair skin tone.

If you’re looking for more shade options but still in a baked formula, Kosas Blush is Life has you covered. Another formula that’s not brand new but that they have been expanding and that has a few more shade options if you don’t yet have a perfect one from Ravie.

The last one I’ll mention in this category, especially for the muted folks, is NAMING’s Fluffy Powder Blush. They’re a staple in Korea for a reason – super blurring, thin, lightweight… amazing. And much more affordable than the ones mentioned above to boot!

Best Stick Blush, KJH.brand Soft Smudge Lip & Cheek: I haven’t personally tried these but have only heard great things. I’m also so happy that KJH.brand is now available at Sephora! I’ve followed Katie Jane Hughes for several years, and while she does have a pretty specific makeup style, I feel confident saying that you will love her products if you love that aesthetic.

The best stick blush for me this year has been the Risky Beauty Blur-Rush Stick. Full review here so I won’t repeat thoughts, but just know they have not slid down the ranking whatsoever.

Bronzer

Best Powder Bronzer, DIBS Beauty Duet Baked Bronzer: Another one I’m surprised about! This is by no means a bad bronzer, but it is a very natural, very buildable formula. Great if you’re new to bronzer or if you enjoy just a kiss of color and if you want a bit of luminosity. For me, it’s usually a little more work than I want to invest, but that’s all down to personal preference.

My personal favorites have to be the Givenchy Prisme Libra Bronzer and the Marc Jacobs Legally Bronze. Givenchy powders are among some of the most thin, finely-milled, and blurring in my collection, and if you have very fair skin, do NOT sleep on 001 Mousseline Bronzée. The Marc Jacobs is also fabulous – finely milled, blendable, and with a great shade range – though the packaging is a little inconvenient to store.

Best Cream Bronzer, Makeup by Mario SoftSculpt Transforming Skin Enhancer: I know this is such a beloved formula, and the texture is really nice – which makes me wish I could more easily partake! Unfortunately the “Light” shade is far too warm, and Light Medium can give a little too much depth too quickly. I know it’s a sheer product, but we need more shades!

A lovely alternative that came out this year is the Refy Water Bronzer Liquid Cushion. Similar sheer formula, but the liquid formula being in a cushion compact makes it about as easy to interact with as a cream! It’s also a much more neutral shade. The other that I think is more comparable is the Sarah Creal Cream Bronzer (reviewed here).

If you want a stiffer formula but still in pan format, the Soshe Blurring Pillow Bronzer is a cream-to-powder formula that just melts into your skin and has some quite unique undertones if bronzer is usually a challenging category for you or if you’re seeking a little bit of a change.

Best Liquid Bronzer, Saie Dew Bronze: I think this is a good formula, but unfortunately the shades are too pigmented for the current shade range in my opinion. I do hope they expand it because it’s a very easy format with which to interact and blends well in general.

I would instead choose the Makeup by Mario Softsculpt Shaping Serum. This is absolutely more sheer but gives such nice, softly buildable dimension and with a stunning satiny (but not sticky) finish.

Contour

Best Liquid Contour, Rare Beauty Soft Pinch Liquid Contour: No disagreement. This is a really nice formula (albeit pigmented, so tread carefully!) that stays throughout the day, which is no surprise given their liquid blush formula. I just don’t know how many of the shades are true contours, as the promo photos are not accurate.

Best Stick Contour, LYS Beauty No Limits Cream Bronzer Stick: Listen, I completely understand that contour and bronzer are relative according to both your skintone and your surrounding makeup, but this is quite literally in the name not a contour and wasn’t intended to be. Even in Allure’s demonstration video, it is applied on the top of her cheekbones – nowhere in the contour region. I don’t have a shade in this for either contour or bronzer, so I’ll share the ones I love instead.

Sephora Collection Cream Contour Stick: This is a true, gray-leaning contour for my skin tone with a lovely formula. Super easy to use as it glides onto your skin and blends really easily. Also comes in a decent shade range, especially for a house brand.

If you like a more precise contour stick, the Haus Labs Precision Sculpt Contour Stick is a banger. Similarly very easy to work with, but the thinner component makes it effortless to target where you truly want the product and nowhere else.

Lastly, for a little bit of a different option but no less deserving, the Rituel de Fille Inner Glow Crème Pigment. These are a stiffer cream that warm up in the pan, which I find offers enhanced longevity, and the shades are impeccable. I personally use the shade Intuition, but they have a full range of contour shades.

Setting Powder

Best Pressed Powder, One/Size Bouclé Silk Airbrushed Talc-Free Finishing Powder: Similar to the contour stick, a finishing powder is not equivalent to a setting powder. They can be interchangeable if you lean more on the dry side (as I do), but I personally use them differently – setting powder to actually set down my foundation/concealer and, if needed, finishing powder on top of that to really airbrush my complexion. Good news for you? My favorite does both.

The Givenchy Prisme Libre Pressed Powder has not left my vanity since it was released. It’s so thin, lightweight, and incredibly blurring while also offering some color correction. I’m still on my first compact but grabbed a backup when it was on sale because I’ve hit major pan. My favorite shade is 00 Tulle Opalescent, which is unfortunately a Givenchy site exclusive, but the other shades are available at Sephora.

Because I know that shade especially isn’t the easiest to obtain, the other I can readily recommend is the Dior Forever Nude Filter (available in both Radiant and Matte finishes).

If I were to add an actual finishing powder category, Hourglass is a fan-favorite for a reason, with their holiday palettes always giving the best value. I will also put the Ilia Soft Focus Finishing Powder in the mix, with a more affordable option being the Morphe Cloudlight Soft Glow Veil Finishing Powder.

Best Loose Powder, Kosas Cloud Set Loose Translucent Setting + Blurring Powder: I’ve heard mixed opinions on this one, mainly that the amount of mica in the powder can make some people feel the end result is metallic. Most I know would still choose the Kosas Cloud Set Pressed Powder for a soft focus set, but the loose powder may be better suited for dry-skinned folks.

Ones I can recommend more universally is the new Charlotte Tilbury, as it gives a good blurring effect while remaining lightweight and a more natural finish. The L’Oréal Paris Infallible Blur-Fection Longwear Loose Setting Powder won in the drugstore category, so maybe one to check out as well!

Setting Spray

Best Matte Setting Spray, Morphe Lifeproof Continuous Setting Mist: I haven’t tried this one and might end up choosing to do so because of some of the reviews I’ve read. This is another category though where I’m legitimately shocked the Danessa Myricks Beauty Yummy Skin Mattifying Setting Spray didn’t win. It’s such an incredible product with impressive results and that I’ve heard people of all ages and skin types have success with. This stuff will not only mattify (like, literally in place of a separate powder) but will also keep your makeup locked in all day.

Best Dewy Setting Spray, Charlotte Tilbury Airbrush Flawless Setting Spray: I consider this more of a natural finish setting spray, but I’ll take it since it is definitely not a mattifying one. Incredible product though and one that I use very consistently.

Eyes

Mascara

I can’t speak to this category as much as I’d like to because I have very fine, straight lashes such that Asian beauty mascaras are the only ones I can consistently rely on to hold a curl, which I personally prefer on myself to give more contrast and drama against my very fair complexion. What I typically do is use an Asian mascara as a “base” layer right at my roots and a little bit beyond, then layer with a more “traditional”/Western beauty mascara for more of the overall effect I’m seeking. Stephanie at @beautyunhyped tends to use mascara in the same way and recently raved about the Heroine Make Long Up Mascara Super Waterproof as her most repurchased mascara, so that one is on my list to try after I finish my Clio Kill Lash Superproof Mascara in 02 Volume Curling – which is pretty good as a base and is also a great one and done. The “layering” mascaras I’ve used most recently are the Lisa Eldridge Kitten Lash and the Ravie Beauty Effortless Lash Classic Curve Mascara.

All that being said, I’ll list two options that I’ve heard the most about from others.

Best Curling Mascara, Lancôme Lash Idôle Curl Goddess Mascara: For people who rely on the mascara wand to curl vs. a separate tool, the Lancôme seems to be quite a popular choice. I do think it’s interesting for one of the testers to have had naturally curled lashes though…

Best Tubing Mascara, Urban Decay Tube Job Lash Augmenting Tubing Mascara: Hate the name and haven’t tried the formula, mainly because tubing mascaras are typically too heavy for my lashes and I wouldn’t get the full benefit regardless by layering on top of an Asian beauty mascara. I know it’s popular though, with one big reason being the shade options. The Thrive Causemetics Liquid Lash Extensions Mascara is also another good choice for this category with a few shades to choose from, though it’s a slightly heavier formula. The Maybelline New York Lash Sensational Sky Tubes Tubing Mascara won in this category for drugstore, and I’ve similarly heard great things – unsurprising since Maybelline knocks mascara out of the park.

Eyeliner

Best Eyeliner Pencil, Make Up For Ever Artist Color Pencil: Disagree. These are great pencils for a wooden style, and I do actually like wooden pencils. However, this particular formula really has no longevity, so I only use it for my lips and can’t imagine it lasting around my eyes. (I am seeing that these are now separated into separate lip and eye listings on Sephora, but both are still in the wooden style… if any formula chances occurred as part of the rebrand, please let me know, though Allure’s description still references it as a multi-use pencil.)

If you’d like some alternatives, Prada’s Waterproof Smudge Proof Eye Pencil is more of a gel-like consistency but similarly very long-wearing – my favorite is the shade Ember.

Lastly, if you do winged liner a lot or want a super precise edge, go for the Half Magic Velvet Flik Eyeliner Pencil.

Best Kajal Eyeliner, Sarah Creal Beauty Eyes Up Creamy Kajal Longwear Liner: Completely agree. I actually had this listed in the category above as an alternative option before seeing it won a separate category! It’s a really impressive formula that allows for some smudging before it completely sets down and is gentle on the eyes. (If you didn’t know, Sarah Creal was behind Victoria Beckham Beauty’s award-winning Satin Kajal Liner.)

Best Clear Brow Gel, Göt2b Glued Brow & Edge Gel: I know a lot of people used to use the bigger bottle of this product with a mascara spoolie for their brows, which ultimately I believe is why this product was released, but I haven’t heard the same love for it! Instead, I’d recommend the Rare Beauty Brow Harmony or even Make Beauty’s Infinite Hold Strong Brow Gel.

Best Tinted Brow Gel/Pomade, Glossier Boy Brow: This is a good product and has been around for years for a reason. I personally don’t find it worth it because it really only tints without much hold. I’d instead go for the same Rare Beauty Brow Harmony in one of the tinted shades. It’s lightly tinted so that you’re not depositing an overwhelming amount of color, but it gives enough for more definition and has the same type of strong hold.

Best Brow Pencil, Anastasia Beverly Hills ArchiBrow Pencil: This pencil is incredibly thin so that you can truly replicate hair-like strokes, and Anastasia’s brow range is quite good. However, I don’t love that it doesn’t have a cap and that it’s $30. There are other super thin, blade like pencils available at lower prices in Asian beauty.

Since I found the Peripera Speedy Skinny Brow a few years ago, I’ve never turned back. They sell the most nuanced shades, especially for more muted and/or cooler toned hair, which is exceptionally difficult to find in Western products as a blonde. I can also snag them for around $5 on YesStyle. My best match is 12 Milky Taupe.

Best Brow Pen, Maybelline New York Build-a-Brow: Another one I haven’t yet tried and therefore can’t speak on directly. However, my mom uses a brow pen for her brows and swears by the NYX Lift & Snatch Brow Tint Waterproof Eyebrow Pen, which looks to have nearly double the shade options.

Best Eyeshadow Palettes

Best 4-Pan Eye Shadow Palette, R.E.M. Beauty Sweet Dreams Eyeshadow Quad: I haven’t tried personally, but so many people have raved to me about them that it makes sense. Even after I reviewed the brand’s new singles, folks were saying the palettes are well worth it! Not knocking this choice at all, but if I had to pick (acknowledging the price difference), the YSL Couture Mini Clutch Eyeshadow Palettes simply can’t be beat for me.

Best 12-Pan Eye Shadow Palette, Makeup By Mario Ethereal Eyes Eyeshadow Palette: The Original: I don’t disagree with this, especially considering that it was originally limited edition and brought back due to customer demand. This palette has more sheer mattes that are easily buildable but that I’d recommend using no more than a couple – they blend so easily that they can actually just blend directly into each other, lol. The shimmers are that classic, wet-look effect that so many have been seeking. It’s an easy, low maintenance palette that I think a lot of people would love.

My only qualm here is why the category was limited to a 12-pan? I might have expected to see a Natasha Denona Midi palette given the color story options and variety of finishes. My favorites lately been the Tan Palette (review here) and I Need a Cool Palette (review here).

Eyeshadow

Best Matte Liquid Eye Shadow, MAC Multisculpt Matte Liquid Colour: Absolutely, 1000% yes. These are incredible – easy to blend but then fully set and last all day. I use these in place of an eye primer quite often!

Best Liquid Shimmer Eye Shadow, Armani Beauty Eye Tint Long-Lasting Liquid Eyeshadow: These are a good product, and I enjoy a number of the colors – however, I think you do have to have a specific expectation with these. It’s a very thin, lightweight, and more sheer formula, so you’re not going to want to build them up too much. They do look beautiful as a light wash of color though, especially with the mattes and some of the glossier shimmers (like 67S).

If you’re looking for fuller pigment in a liquid shadow, I really love the Lisa Eldridge Liquid Lurex (as well as her Liquid Silk mattes). They blend and wear beautifully and are really flattering to more mature skin as well.

Best Matte Eye Shadow Stick, Bobbi Brown Cosmetics Long-Wear Cream Eyeshadow Stick: Agree – another product where there’s a reason it’s been around for so long! This is a great, easy to work with, longlasting shadow formula with an abundance of shades. Another option that I’ve been enjoying in the same realm is the Charlotte Tilbury Exagger-Eyes Waterproof Eyeshadow Stick (reviewed here), epecially for the shades.

Best Shimmer Eye Shadow Stick, About Face Holostick: Another one I haven’t tried, but I do love About Face as a brand! They make some incredible products at accessible price points.

It’s honestly not clear to me why Bobbi Brown, Laura Mercier, or Charlotte Tilbury weren’t selected here as well (just for their shimmer formulas instead), but I’d also recommend the Bobbi Brown Crystal Eyes Shimmer Eyeshadow Stick if you’re looking for a bit more glitz and glam.

Best Cream Eye Shadow, Make Up For Ever Artist Color Cream: This is an interesting choice because from reviews I watched, these were very makeup artist friendly but not as much consumer friendly. I’d sooner recommend the Merit Solo Shadows. Similar to the above, if you’re looking for a bit more glamour, the Half Magic Glitterpucks might be right up your alley (reviewed here).

Lips

Lipstick

Honestly, MAC lipsticks have completely run the game for me this year, in all formulas – Lustreglass Sheer-Shine, Sleek Satin, Silky Matte, and Powder Kiss Lip + Cheek Mousse.

My other standbys have been the Merit lipsticks in the signature satin formula and the newer lip blush.

All are super comfortable to wear and contain great nuanced shades to suit a variety of skin tones and aesthetics. I haven’t personally tried the ones that won but don’t doubt their quality – I just haven’t gravitated to the shades offered in them. Let me know if I should!

Lip Stain

Best Lip Stain, Violette_FR Lip Nectar: Again, haven’t tried this one but have heard they’re fantastic. Unfortunately, Violette seems to only release colors that suit her… which means a relatively bold range of reds and berries, neither of which I’m wearing on the daily.

For me, this will always be taken by Asian beauty companies. Laka Fruity Glam Tint, Naming Over Dew Glossy Lip Tint, Hince Raw Glow Gel Tint, Dinto Blur-Glowy Lip Tint, Peripera Mood Glowy Tint, and Entropy Charm Tint Base Blurry. They have a variety of finishes and shades, but if you’re looking for lip tints, this is where I’d guide you.

Lip Balm

Best Lip Balm for Day, Personal Day Emotional Support Lip Balm: My friend Bia (@selfcarebybia) really loves this one, as in it’s one of her favorites ever. I still need to give it some more time to test because it is a little thinner than I expected (but not necessarily thin). At the moment, I’m grabbing one of three (and all of them are smaller companies!).

Experiment Softwear wraps around your lips to create a lovely cushion and has gentle exfoliating properties to recover chapped lips and ensure they stay smooth. I really like that it’s not overly glossy, more of a natural/satin finish, and their nuanced shade selection.

Phytosurgence Calm Conditions Lip Balm is a much firmer, waxier consistency that gently builds color once you get through the initial layer. It comes in an aluminum component similar to a chapstick and is both moisturizing and easy to pop into a pocket or a bag. Asian and LGBTQ+ owned!

Vieve Bounce Balm is another squeezy tube formula that genuinely has one of the nicest, cushiest sensations I’ve ever felt. The comfort and beautiful vanilla scent (without being too sweet) all add together in a way that I can only describe it as cozy? It has the most beautiful vanilla scent – not too sweet It is a treatment as it gently exfoliates (via pineapple extract), has a tripeptide + bakuchiol, and also contains some really lovely hydrating ingredients. It comes in a clear, muted pink, and soft brown, though I’m also considering picking up this discovery set that contains an exclusive shade.

Best Lip Balm for Night, Gisou Honey Glaze Collagen Therapy Lip Mask: I know potted lip balms are more popular for nighttime, but if I can be super honest, I don’t ever want to deal with dipping my finger (or a spatula) in a pot and then having to wipe or wash it off directly afterwards. Just give me a tube!

For that reason, I’m always grabbing my clear Eadem Le Chouchou; Ole Henriksen Pout Preserve; or Marin since those are clear as well.

Marin Lip Treatment is more of a traditional squeezy lip balm consistency and is thinner compared to Eadem and Ole Henriksen but so healing. They come in a few fun scents as well, some of which are seasonal. The brand is based in Maine and touts usage of marine glycoproteins across their products, with this one also containing squalane.

Best Tinted Lip Balm, Eadem Le Chouchou Lip Softening Balm: See above, it’s a love! The metal cooling tip feels so nice and refreshing, and their colors and scents just keep getting better and better. Highly recommend – just don’t squeeze out too much at a time, or it can get a little bit goopy.

Lip Oil

Best Color Lip Oil, Dior Addict Lip Glow Oil: Are they overpriced? Yes. Are they popular for a reason? Also yes. It’s a nice product with a lovely range of shades and finishes, especially with their recent reformulation (which thankfully did not feature a degradation in quality).

Two others I’ve been enjoying recently are the Typology Moisturizing Lip Oil, which I finally picked up with the release of their Smokey Beige shade (be still my heart), and the Romand Juicy Flash Lip Oil in case you’re looking for some more options!

Lip Gloss

Best Lip Gloss, Kiko Milano 3D Hydra Lipgloss: Interesting timing as I’ve actually just received my first Kiko lip gloss! I’ll need some time to test it out, but hopefully this is a good sign as I’ve really enjoyed nearly every Kiko product I’ve tried in the past. Seems it’s a good time to mention as well that Kiko is now more readily available in the US via Macy’s, though I’m also optimistic that means more Kiko products will make their way over here instead of having to order internationally as those are some of their best collections.

Since I can’t yet speak on that one, I’ll share some glosses I’ve been enjoying in the meantime.

Vieve Lip Dew – These are exceptional. So shiny, so smooth, and also nourishing. The Socialite shade is ELITE (and it looks like now is part of the permanent line!).

Romand Glasting Color Gloss: I won’t wax poetic, but you can find my review here! Beautiful shades in a formula that feels like luxury at a very not-luxury pricepoint.

Danessa Myricks Glosswork 4D: These are fabulous. Buttery smooth but also grip your lips so that they’re not sliding outside of the lips where they weren’t invited! I only have the clear because I’m really hoping they come out with some cool-toned and muted options. A cool beige?! I would be set for life.

Lip Liner

Best Pencil Lip Liner, Kevyn Aucoin Beauty Unforgettable Lip Definer: Idk what we’re doing anymore, fam. Kevyn Aucoin was an incredible makeup artist, so this is no comment on his talent. It’s just that this appears to be your run-of-the-mill wooden lip liner though and only comes in six shades.

If you’re looking for a wooden pencil specifically, I would point you to either MAC or Anastasia Beverly Hills, both of which have a huge shade range. ABH continues to expand theirs and have released some really incredible options. The Makeup by Mario ones also have a large following for a reason, especially in the shade Toasty.

If you’re looking for a long-lasting liner, I would point you to Haus Labs (reviewed here). Another one recently reviewed, so I’ll link that post here. Just know that since then, I’ve gotten other people equally as hooked on them, and their nuanced nudes are absolutely fabulous.

Stain Lip Liner, Kulfi Lassi Lips Staining Lip Liner: I’ve seen mixed reviews on this one, mainly because of the underlying stain being so pink; however, I’ve also seen that it’s only that bright initially because it takes some time to develop on your lips before it more closely matches the initial liner shade applied. Again, a scenario where there just isn’t the right shade for me yet, and a product I would happily try when my ideal shade is released because Kulfi rarely misses.

Lip Liner Stains have emerged as a new category in their own right, and one that I have fully embraced given their updated designs that allow for more control and precision. As someone who relies on lip liner every day, it’s an additional comfort to not have to worry about it sticking around.

My favorite by far has been the Beaubble x Rudi (reviewed here), but the NYX Lingerie Lip Liner Stain and Huda Lip Contour Lip Stain are also great.

Breakthrough

Danessa Myricks Beauty ColorFix Sticks: Absolutely deserved. Danessa Myricks is a tenacious genius with a soul so sunny that everyone around her is immediately filled with light. I truly believe she is a beautiful person based on the energy, compassion, and encouragement she puts into the world, and I adore seeing someone like that get their flowers.

The ColorFix sticks are an incredible product offering two shades/finishes per stick. They give you high impact foil and metallic shades that glide on with a cooling sensation and then completely set down. The Allure description states that these have a novel water gel-based formula, though sensation-wise, they feel similar to others on the market (Dose of Colors, Colourpop, Joocyee). I think this product is really about the depth of color you can develop so quickly as most other options are really meant more as toppers.

There is another innovation with the two-sided magnetic mechanism holding both of the offered shades together to create the “stick.” Personally, I wish the shades and connector were sold separately so that you could buy one at a time – especially since I don’t always love both shades in a duo and the full stick itself is rather large – but they do actually fit the other types of this product. If magnetic (like the Joocyee), it pops in and out the same way that the DM sides do. If not magnetic, I imagine you could just tape it if you still wanted to keep two shades together.

Beauty Aesthetics

Since the last product in this category is a breast implant (yes, really)… this feels like a good time to mention that in the same Jessica Cruel interview, it was mentioned that next spring (2027), a new “Best of Beauty: Aesthetics” segment will be launching so that it can exist in its own vertical. It will first live separately from the typical awards, after which it will be evaluated on how best to bring it back consistently.

Apparently this is coming from thinking a lot about “what our reader needs and the aesthetics conversation, with med spas, is just really blowing up.” I’m sorry, I’m not sure I could hate this more. If I – and quite frankly, most of the general public – don’t think they do a sufficient job educating readers on how the current product categories are vetted, why would I trust them to be qualified to do the same with greater stakes beauty aesthetics? We’re talking about something that requires a much higher level of due diligence, meaning that a regulatory agency with dedicated subject matter experts (SMEs) has independently vetted medical devices and their accompanying evidence to specifically clear or approve them for particular indications/uses. And assuming the creators of such aesthetics “solution providers,” shall we call them, are still the ones who have to submit the applications to win… no potential conflicts of interest there, right?

Note: The difference between cleared and approved is mostly divided by level of risk to the patient. Approval undergoes a rigorous process and includes all complex medical devices (such as breast implants), new drugs (like neurotoxins/neuromuscular inhibitors, such as Botox), and new biologics. Cleared means that a device is substantially similar – a burden of proof to uphold via substantial equivalence/comparability studies – because a marketed predicate has already been deemed legal by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA).

It’s also a field where a huge network of medical professionals – people who went to school for this, who received their degrees + certifications for their level of expertise, and who practice it every day – trade their experiences and insights with each other to similarly determine if any of the options are better than their counterparts for the patients they see. The level of oversight is already thorough and appropriate so that they can allow both themselves and their patients to make informed decisions between each other. Aesthetics conversations are deeply personal, for which a trained medical provider should be evaluating your specifics needs according to your body and lifestyle – not according to a broad-sweeping endorsement that could never account for that level of variability. We don’t actually need Allure’s opinion on how they feel.

I also do think Allure has both a unique privilege and responsibility here in terms of beauty standards. Especially within the last 20 years – though I’d honestly argue even within the last 5 – the number of and availability of beauty treatments/procedures has meaningfully increased, with the societal expectation that women in particular partake in them to look perpetually younger. You know, the appearance where this culture still considers us valuable. (Devaluing aging and the wisdom that comes with it is a topic for another day.)

Even though the vast majority of people do not have access to these options, it then sets a new norm that – again, women in particular – are expected to conform to, welcoming pressure vs. choice. (Because let’s not forget that within the US where Allure is based, anything within this realm is exorbitantly expensive compared to other regions.) So why, as a theoretical authority in beauty, would Allure not take that opportunity to curb and redirect that narrative into one that is both more empowering and representative of their everyday reader that they claim to serve? Or minimally drive the conversation towards an opportunity to make these options more accessible to those who want them, without inviting judgment for those who don’t? It feels incongruent.

I’m a bit wary to see where this will go and hope Allure treats it with the utmost care it deserves, from every angle.

Body

Body Wash

Best Liquid Body Wash, Salt & Stone Bergamot & Hinoki Body Wash: I have heard so many good things about this brand and especially about the most recent scents they’ve released, so this does not surprise me. I also love their clean, straightforward, monochromatic packaging. If you’ve tried this product, can you share your experiences, as well as how you would describe your favorite scent of those offered?

My current choice – and that I’ve not strayed from since initially trying it – is Cyklar’s Sensorial Body Wash. It’s a moisturizing body wash formula, so my dry skin never feels stripped. Vanilla Verve, Sacred Santal, and Crescent are all intoxicating scents!

Exfoliators

Best Body Scrub, Naturium The Glow Getter Multi-Oil Body Scrub: I’ve heard good things about this! I just don’t prefer the coconutty scent of Naturium’s Multi-Oil line (but please let me know if this has since been changed).

Instead, I use the Soft Services Buffer Bars (a 2022 winner!), which are made of a microcrystal exfoliant and that stores just like a bar of soap. They’re so effective, especially for things like keratosis pilaris (KP), and you can also select your level of exfoliation depending on the bar you choose. I love that they’ve been exploring more with scent releases as well. Right now you can even pick up one of their limited gift sets that includes four different bars for just over the size of two.

Best Rich Body Moisturizer, Saltair Driftwood Multi-Lipid Body Butter: Saltair is another favorite brand that has been orbiting around me but whose moisturizer I’ve not yet tried! I’m nearly done with my Cyklar Body Cream though and have actually picked up this exact scent in a prior order. Very excited to try!

Best Body Oil, Cyklar Vanilla Verve Vitamin C Body Oil: Can you tell I’m a Cyklar lover? No notes from me, another fantastic product! Sinks in quickly, moisturizes effectively, smells heavenly.

If you don’t love putting on an oil after the shower or bath, you might actually prefer the In-Shower Body Oil Balm, which you apply to still-wet skin in the shower and just towel dry!

Best Deodorant Stick, Salt & Stone Santal & Vetiver Deodorant: Haven’t tried but heard it’s good! I have to be very particular about aluminum-free formulas, as most of the traditional creamy consistency irritate/burn my underarms.

So once again, a Cyklar fan… Their Mandelic Acid Brightening Deodorant actually has great performance and odor protection without feeling sticky or slimy. I actually prefer the Sacred Santal in this product, as sweetly scented deodorant is just not my thing, lol.

Best Trimmer, Fur Trim System: I have no doubts this is great… but $120?! For a trimmer with a little razor attachment?! You can quite literally get a product with the same functionality and without sacrificing aesthetic for nearly $100 less… yes, really.

Best Hand Sanitizer, Touchland Hand Sanitizer: I do love a good Touchland hand sanitizer (especially in a limited edition scent). It took me years to finally purchase one, and the size/shape make it perfect for tucking into a bigger pocket or a small bag (as opposed to a chunkier bottle). However, the waste aspect sent me hunting for an alternative, and I think I found a really wonderful one through Noshinku’s Refillable Hand Sanitizer Spray, which you can buy either individually or as part of a set. Then you just buy the refills, which can fill the components again five times. Sometimes there are more options available directly on their site.

Hair Care

Honestly, I can’t really speak on much of this at the moment since I’m currently testing a bunch of hair care products. What I’d love instead is if you can share any of your thoughts on the products that won or what you would suggest instead – please include your hair type with your thoughts!

Tools

Best Bronzer Makeup Brush, Rēphr LC 02 Synthetic Petit Complexion Brush: This one I wanted to mention because I think it’s pretty cool to see a brand design products so specifically attuned to their audience’s requests that they end up winning an Allure Best of Beauty!

If you’re not aware, Rephr started as a Kickstarter brand, and while there were some criticisms around their approach at least initially, that seems to have been replaced by the favor their customers now hold for them. I myself am a big Rephr brush user, for both eyes and face. And while I can certainly acknowledge that their brushes aren’t going to be the same artisanal quality that Japanese brush brands are known for – though still very soft and effective – I also don’t think they’re intending to be. Rephr feels to me more of an accessible approach, or even an entry point, into natural hair brushes.

However, with the LC02, it’s actually part of their newer synthetic line that’s gone over really well. I’m looking forward to seeing how they further expand it!

Best Makeup Sponge, Beautyblender Original Makeup Sponge: Nothing against a Beautyblender, they’re just far overpriced for what they are! I’d sooner recommend the AOA Sponges, where you get 6 for just over $1/sponge and are very soft.

Best Tweezers, Tweezerman Slant Tweezers: What can I say? Tweezerman tweezers are goated for a reason. No objections!

Best Lash Curler, Shu Uemura Iconic Eyelash Curler: I don’t have any critiques of this lash curler at all, I used it for years myself until I lost mine! Since then, I’ve switched to Rephr’s eyelash curler, which is also really effective for me and that comes in two different sizes depending on what’s most comfortable for your eye shape.

Best Multitasker, Shark Beauty Shark Glam 5-in-1 Air Styler & Dryer: I have the second generation of the Dyson Airwrap and genuinely love it; however, it also means I therefore haven’t tried the Shark (which I promise is not a flex – I got the Dyson with my Ulta points, lol). With how many people love the Shark in comparison though, not to mention the comparatively lower price point, I will have to do some serious research if/when it’s time to replace my Dyson!

(Also, can I formally insert here my plea for Dyson to release more… attractive color combinations? Part of the reason I finally got a Dyson when I did is because it came in the Copper/Nickel colorway, which was the first one that had appealed to me. A mixed metal AND a neutral?! Listen, I am who I am, and I’d be lying if I didn’t say that’s also giving Shark a leg up.)

Best Claw Clip, The Hair Edit Gilded Ellipse Flat Lay Claw Clip: The design of this looks really nice. I’ve tried a “flat” clip before, but it just didn’t sit on the back of my head nicely and was therefore kind of entirely ineffective in its purpose, lol. Please let me know if you’ve tried this type!

The only claw clip I’ve since worn is a flexible one from Mello once I learned that hard clips can go directly through your skull in a car accident. Don’t get me wrong, I still don’t wear claw clips in the car, but the softer material has made me more comfortable in general while still securing my fine hair.

Overall

I’ve never actually gone through the Allure Best of Beauty with this much of a fine tooth comb, and it was a good time (if sometimes a bit sassy and/or serious)! A lot of work, but something I would definitely do again if you all enjoyed this.

Interested to see the Readers’ Choice Awards and evaluate the ratio of things I agree with vs. those I don’t compare, albeit much more informally while cuddling with the pets.

I’m so keen to hear your thoughts, however few or many you may want to share!