weightwisejournal

Courtesy of @thehaloeffectbyangel, @donebyhadleydunn, and @d_summons_theeSave StorySave this storySave StorySave this story

Have you ever gotten lost in a watercolor painting? Following its fluid washes of pigment and tracing each brushstroke as it melts into the next brings art lovers—including us at Allure—a sense of peace. This season, nail artists are bringing that vibe into their manicures. Watercolor nails echo the romance of Impressionist paintings and feature sheer, blended color that feels expressive and artistic.

Nail artists are particularly excited about the trend, as it allows them to fully tap into their creative range. “I love watercolor nails and being able to use actual art supplies to create unique nail designs,” says Hadley Dunn, a nail artist based in Kentucky.

There are several ways to achieve this look. Dunn prefers a more literal approach: “I coat my base in a matte topcoat before using watercolor paint on the nail and sealing it with a [glossy] topcoat,” she says.

When San Sung Kim, a Korean nail artist, creates her watercolor nails, she starts with a cat-eye base, as its light-shifting shimmer particles make the finished look more dynamic. “I have been working with velvet polishes since the beginning of my nail journey, and I always try to come up with fresh new takes,” she previously told Allure, noting that colorful swirl candies inspire her take on watercolor nails.

Courtesy of @SansungnailsCourtesy of @sansungnails

Kim then uses a nail art marker (a felt-tip pen filled with polish) to paint swirls and patches in varying sizes, before taking a wet nail brush to blur her hand-painted design for a realistic watercolor look. The result? A dreamy manicure that would feel at home next to paintings by Monet and Renoir.

Courtesy of @nailzzwithannie

Some nail artists, like New York City-based Natalia Mercedes, prefer using an airbrush to achieve watercolor paint’s signature blend. “It’s similar to how aura nails are created with an airbrush,” Mercedes says, noting that she uses polish formulated specifically for the tool (like the polishes from Favai) and builds color in sheer, controlled layers.

With color theory in mind, each shade subtly shifts the one beneath it: “When I layer yellow over blue, I get a bit of green, and that’s what creates that seamless, diffused effect,” Mercedes adds. To keep the layering intentional rather than muddy, she lightly cures each layer before adding the next.

Annie Ngo, a nail artist in Atlanta, uses a more unconventional method: dabbing eye shadow pigments onto the nail in layers to achieve the watercolor effect. Ngo coats each nail with a matte primer, which creates a smooth base, before buffing the powder across the surface with a nail sponge. She does this with multiple colors, allowing them to overlap at the edges to create that beautifully blurred look, then seals the look with a glossy top coat.

No matter how it’s achieved, it’s undeniable that the soft, dreamy nail look is one we’ll be seeing everywhere this summer. Ahead, collect inspo for your watercolor manicure.

Bright watercolor nails

Courtesy of @karin.naileditCourtesy of @kimkimnailsCourtesy of @donebyhadleydunn

Jewel-toned watercolor nails

Courtesy of @d_summons_theeCourtesy of @deesummonsthee

Floral watercolor nails

Courtesy of @bees.knees.nailsCourtesy of @bexbeautynails

Watercolor fruit nails

Courtesy of @danis.manisCourtesy of @nailsbyninnCourtesy of @jazzynails.x

Milky watercolor nails

Courtesy of @friskynails

Rainbow watercolor nails

Courtesy of @thehaloeffectbyangel

Discover more nail art trends:

• This Summer’s Top Nail Art Trends Are All About Feel-Good Finishes
• Gem Nails Are the Most Nostalgic Nail Art Trend of 2026
• These Are the Best South Korean Nail Trends of 2026

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

If there’s one styling tool our editors rely on the most, it’s the best blow-dryer brushes. These innovative, two-in-one tools help you achieve a professional-level blowout, no salon appointment (or sore arms) required. While they won’t fully replace your blow-dryer—you’ll still want to rough-dry first—they’re a game-changer once hair is damp, cutting down on frizz, styling time, and the dreaded arm workout. Even if you've gotten used to—or resigned yourself to—maneuvering your blow-dryer and round brush simultaneously, trust us when we say hair-dryer brushes make styling more controlled, easier, faster, and smoother.

Our Top Hair-Dryer Brushes

• Best Overall: Dyson Airwrap Co-anda2x Multi-Styler and Dryer, $749
• Best for Quick Styling: GHD Duet Blowdry, $429
• Best for Beginners: T3 Airebrush, $150
• Best for Curly Hair: Shark Glossi Blowout Brush, $180

The concept of a hair dryer brush is simple yet intuitive: The handy, two-in-one tool combines the detangling ability of a brush with the power of heat, allowing you to style, volumize, and blow-dry your hair to perfection. “Blow-dry brushes work for most hair types—fine, wavy, straight, medium, and even very thick hair if the sections are small enough,” says Reagan Baker, a stylist based in New York City, adding that they’re the closest you can get to a professional blowout without needing expert technique. Interest piqued? Keep reading to learn more about our tried-and-true picks

Frequently Asked Questions

• How do I get the most out of a hair-dryer brush?
• How do I minimize heat damage from a hair-dryer brush?
• Are hair-dryer brushes easier to use than traditional hair-dryers?
• How do I clean my hair-dryer brush?
• Meet the experts
• How we test and review products
• Our staff and testers

Best Overall: Dyson Airwrap Co-anda2x Multi-Styler and Dryer

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Dyson

Airwrap Co-anda2x Multi-Styler and Dryer

$750

Amazon

$750

Nordstrom

$749

Sephora

Allure senior commerce director Shanna Shipin using the Dyson Airwrap Co-anda2x Multi-Styler and Dryer

Shanna Shipin

Why it's worth it: As far as we're concerned, the Dyson Airwrap Co-anda2x is one of the most powerful, user-friendly blow dryer brushes on the market. We love it for its fast dry times, thanks to a high-powered motor that spins 150,000 times a minute (more than any other Dyson tool motor, by the way). It's also ultra-lightweight, at 0.9 pounds, and automatically shuts off when you put it down (so you'll never again wonder whether you unplugged it). The suite of attachments makes it easy to define your curls or straighten your strands, for soft, sleek, hair-commercial-worthy styles.

The Airwrap Co-anda is available in two versions: Curly+Coily and Straight+Wavy. Both have five attachments, with a few differences. Our tester is using the Curly+Coily version, which comes with a diffuser for bouncy curls and a wide-tooth tension comb that gently stretches and smooths hair. The Straight+Wavy version features an Airsmooth attachment that straightens without a hot plate and a 1.2-inch curling barrel instead. It all bundles up into a sleek case you can easily keep on your vanity or under your sink.

Shipin before using the Dyson Airwrap Co-anda2x Multi-Styler and Dryer

Shanna Shipin

Shipin after using the Dyson Airwrap Co-anda2x Multi-Styler and Dryer

Shanna Shipin

Tester feedback from senior commerce director Shanna Shipin

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“This is the best Dyson tool I have ever tried—period. I have type 3A curly hair that I sometimes wear natural and sometimes blow-dry; this version of the Airwrap gets whatever look I want to achieve done in 15 minutes or less (yes!). This is coming from someone with low-porosity hair that takes seemingly forever to dry. The fact that I can get my curly hair handled before one of my two kids notices I'm gone is a miracle in itself. I love to use the round brush to create gentle tension that makes my blowouts last for days on end; the attachment is a vast improvement over the older version, IMO. This new iteration gets far closer to the roots for a more natural finish. There's zero frizz, all volume, and just the most Farrah Fawcett-like hair of your life—no tugging, singing, or sore arms necessary. And the diffuser? There are two settings, and both are so effective at giving you bouncy and juicy curls. One really amazing feature is that the tool automatically shuts off when it senses that it’s been put down, an unexpected but much-loved perk for routine stylers like me.

If you have the original Airwrap, if you're new to multi-stylers, or if you're Dyson-curious, this is the product to buy—especially in this new Amber Silk color. It’s a pretty warm honey that's more my style than the classic midnight blue. Any Dyson is an investment, and while this one's steep, you'll be able to kiss your curling iron, blow dryer, and straightener goodbye with a single hot tool. For curly girls especially, it's nice to have a tool that feels tailor-made for your routine. The only person I might not recommend it for? A constant traveler who loves doing their hair on the go; the power cord is heavy and not very compact, making this less frequent flier-friendly than other stylers on the market.” —Shanna Shipin, senior commerce director

More to know

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• Best for: all hair types and textures
• Weight: 0.9 lbs
• Wattage: 1600W
• Noise level: moderate
• Attachments: 5

Best for Quick Styling: GHD Duet Blowdry

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GHD

Duet Blowdry

$429

Amazon

$429

Nordstrom

$429

Ulta Beauty

Allure contributing commerce writer Christa Joanna Lee using the GHD Duet Blowdry

Christa Lee

Why it's worth it: Even with a blow-dryer brush that cuts your routine in half, there’s nothing more frustrating than a perfect blowout that deflates the minute you step outside. The GHD Duet Blowdry Hair Dryer Brush could never: It keeps your blowout bouncy and humidity-resistant for up to 24 hours—so even muggy weather won’t ruin your look. Its proprietary Heat-Air Xchange Technology evenly distributes heat and airflow through the brush—while built-in sensors monitor the temperature up to 400 times per second—to speed up drying, smooth frizz, and boost shine without overheating hair. And for damage-conscious stylers, GHD’s clinicals report “no thermal hair damage detected after 100 cycles of four passes on thoroughly towel-dried hair.” Translation: This tool checks every box for a long-lasting, damage-free blowout. “It’s truly effortless and delivers a polished, salon-quality finish in a fraction of the time. The craftsmanship and quality are unmatched,” says Linda Gattineri, a colorist based in Del Mar, California.

Lee before using the GHD Duet Blowdry

Christa Lee

Lee after using the GHD Duet Blowdry

Christa Lee

Tester feedback from contributing commerce writer Christa Joanna Lee

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“My strands usually get wild when I air-dry, but the before photo (at about 80% dry, as GHD instructs) shows the difference—rolling each section down with its smooth tension makes styling easy without tugging. It’s a little heavier than some tools I’ve tested (close to three pounds), but because it dries hair so quickly, you’ll barely notice the weight. I never knew my hair could possibly be this frizz-free and shiny.” —Christa Joanna Lee, contributing commerce writer

More to know

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• Best for: all hair types
• Weight: 2.82 lbs
• Wattage: Approx 260W
• Noise level: moderate
• Attachments: none

Best for Beginners: T3 Airebrush

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T3

Airebrush

$150 $105 (30% off)

Amazon

$150

Sephora

Allure commerce producer Sarah Hoffmann using the T3 Airebrush Duo with the round brush attachment

Sarah Hoffmann

Why it's worth it: New York City-based hairstylist Jennifer Korab calls the T3 Airebrush One Step her go-to blowout brush, especially for beginners, because it has everything you need for easy styling: multiple heat and speed settings, smooth bristles, and a lightweight design. Head’s up (literally): There are two versions of the Airebrush. One is outfitted with an oval head and the other with a round head. We’ve tested and loved both, but there are some key differences. The oval brush is slightly wider in diameter, making it ideal for thicker, longer hair. Its flatter edges help add soft waves, bends, and that just-left-the-salon lift. The round brush, on the other hand, is slimmer and better for shorter hair that doesn’t require as much surface area. It gets into hard-to-reach edges around the crown of the head way easier and creates a sleeker, more polished finish with a subtle flip at the ends. Thanks to the ceramic barrel and smooth bristles, both brushes literally feel like you’re brushing your hair with a comb—no pulling or tugging. Finish with the Cool Shot setting, which activates a burst of cool air to lock in shine and set your style.

Hoffmann before using the T3 Airebrush Duo with the round brush attachment

Sarah Hoffmann

Hoffmann after using the T3 Airebrush Duo with the round brush attachment

Sarah Hoffmann

Tester feedback from commerce producer Sarah Hoffmann

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“This was the first blow-dryer brush I've ever used, so it'll always hold a special place in my heart. It's pretty quiet for how powerful it is, and it's not particularly heavy either. I like holding it upside down and letting my hair wrap around the round barrel as I pull the brush through while twisting. I prefer a curly blowout and find that letting a freshly passed strand cool slightly on the barrel before releasing it really helps maintain the shape for a long time. A little bit of mousse to prep and hairspray to finish really help with longevity too, especially if your hair is textured.” —Sarah Hoffman, commerce producer

More to know

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• Best for: all hair types and textures
• Weight: 16 oz
• Wattage: 1200W
• Noise level: low
• Attachments: 1 (you can purchase it with the oval or round attachment, but they're not interchangeable)

Best for Curly Hair: Shark Glossi Blowout Brush

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Shark

Glossi Blowout Brush

$180 $130 (28% off)

Amazon

$180

Nordstrom

$180

Ulta Beauty

Shipin using the Shark Glossi Blowout Brush

Shanna Shipin

Why it's worth it: If you have curly or coily hair and want a blow-dry brush that protects your texture instead of fighting it, the Shark Glossi Blowout Brush has a teardrop-shaped barrel that hugs close to the roots and gently smooths hair from end to end. Combining a round brush, ceramic hot tool, and air styler in one, it glides through textured hair (no annoying snagging) for quick drying, defined volume, and long-lasting shine. The brand’s Gloss Lock Technology locks in up to 24 hours of frizz-resistant smoothness, while Smart Heat Sense Technology monitors temperature 1,000 times per second to stay below 302°F—the sweet spot in protecting delicate curls prone to breakage.

Shipin before using the Shark Glossi Blowout Brush

Shanna Shipin

Shipin after using the Shark Glossi Blowout Brush

Shanna Shipin

Tester feedback from Shipin

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“My fastest routine hack ever? Using this Shark Glossi brush. This gets me and my curly hair out of the shower and through the front door in 20 minutes, flat. The handle is smaller than the average blow-dryer brush that I've used, making it easier and more comfortable to maneuver around my head (especially important if you're in a rush to begin with), and it can be used on dry or wet hair. I love how straightforward the product is, but be patient with the motions: you'll need to practice a bit to ensure you use the straightening section correctly when transitioning from wet to dry. Once you have it down, the whole thing is a breeze.

It's not a tool I'd use for styling—given that the head is so large, I definitely need to get closer to the roots or S-wave my hair with a straightener—but that's not what it's for! The Glossi is great for quick and smooth utility drying, and would be great for travel. Don't want to chance it on a hotel blow dryer, or pack multiple tools? This is your one and done. (PS: The Shark Speed Style has a much smaller head that lets you style and blow-dry simultaneously; I use this one more often when I have time on my hands.)” —Shanna Shipin, senior commerce director

More to know

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• Best for: all hair types and textures, especially curly or coily hair
• Weight: 1.6 lbs
• Wattage: 1300W
• Noise level: 11.25 amps
• Attachments: none

Best Volumizing: Drybar The Double Shot

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Drybar

The Double Shot

$155

Amazon

$155

Sephora

Former Allure content director Kara McGrath using the Drybar The Double Shot

Kara McGrath

Why it's worth it: The Drybar The Double Shot packs everything we love about visiting a Drybar salon into a handy hot tool. The technology is straightforward: ionic technology reduces frizz, while a combination of nylon and tufted bristles walks a careful line between tension and control. Plentiful vents ensure even, strong airflow that leaves your hair with a springy bounce (without looking like Shirley Temple ringlets). Pro tip: If you have very thick or very long hair, you can do a preliminary rough dry with a regular blow-dryer to prep for The Double Shot.

McGrath before using the Drybar The Double Shot

Kara McGrath

McGrath after using the Drybar The Double Shot

Kara McGrath

Tester feedback from former content director Kara McGrath

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"If you want people to ask if you just got a professional blowout—that is, super smooth with loads of bounce—Drybar’s The Double Shot Oval Blow-Dryer Brush is the tool for you. Since the barrel is larger than others, it gives tons of volume, but is still thin enough to create some curls as well (and to really get into the cowlick that curses my bangs)." —Kara McGrath, former content director

More to know

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• Best for: fine-to-medium hair textures, straight-to-wavy hair types, short-to-medium lengths
• Weight: 2.6 lbs
• Wattage: 1100W
• Noise level: 80.8 dB
• Attachments: none

Best Budget: Revlon One-Step Volumizer Plus 2.0

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Revlon

One-Step Volumizer Plus 2.0

$36 $28 (22% off)

Amazon

$66

Ulta Beauty

Allure commerce editor Sarah Han using the Revlon One-Step Volumizer Plus 2.0

Sarah Han

Why it's worth it: If you haven't already seen one of the many Allure editors and TikTokers raving about the award-winning Revlon One-Step Volumizer Plus 2.0, you have some serious catching up to do. This brush's innovative, groundbreaking design (which has inspired many copycats) is so good that we’ve given it not one, but two Allure Best of Beauty Awards. (In fact, the original One-Step arguably started the entire blow-dryer brush trend!) Let’s run through all of its pros: The under-$70 tool has four heat settings that suit different textures and a slightly smaller brush head (compared to the original’s)—so it’s easier for those with shorter hair to use, or if you’re looking for extra volume, and a slimmer handle that's easier to grip. During Best of Beauty testing, one of our editors got away with styling their whole head with just one hand.

Han before using the Revlon One-Step Volumizer Plus 2.0

Sarah Han

Han after using the Revlon One-Step Volumizer Plus 2.0

Sarah Han

Tester feedback from commerce editor Sarah Han

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"I'm no expert at styling my hair, so the more straightforward a tool, the better—so I really appreciate that Revlon's One-Step 2.0 doesn't have much of a learning curve. I wrap my hair in a microfiber towel and wait until it's 75% dry before using low heat. I'll sometimes set my front pieces with the cool shot mode, but I'm not super precious about it. The tool itself is still rather bulky for my liking—even though the top of the handle is slimmer than that of the 1.0—but it gets a good job for the price, and you can probably snag it when it's on sale, too.” —Sarah Han, commerce editor

More to know

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• Best for: all hair types and textures
• Weight: 1.8 lbs
• Wattage: 1100W
• Noise level: 75 dBs
• Attachments: 1

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I get the most out of a hair-dryer brush?

Even with the fanciest hot tool, the key to a glorious blowout starts with prep, prep, and more prep. Always start with clean, detangled, and damp hair with a bit of leave-in conditioner, advises New York City-based hairstylist Takisha Sturdivant-Drew. "Start at the root and work your way down to the ends without putting too much heat or tension on the hair," Sturdivant-Drew explains.

Volume is even easier to achieve, especially for straight or wavy textures. "Twist the dryer as you go in a circular motion to add volume if that's what you are looking for," says Sturdivant-Drew. If your hair is on the curly or coily side and you're going for a sleek look, you can follow up with a flatiron or brush it out with the heat off. "If you want it straight, you should use the blow-dryer brush and, right under it, use another brush to smooth those kinky strands all the way out," she says.

How do I minimize heat damage from a hair-dryer brush?

To minimize the risk of heat damage, opt for a blow-dryer brush that features several temperature settings, so you can better moderate the amount of heat your hair is undergoing. Not all hair types call for the same heat level, so if you're getting acquainted with a new blow-dryer brush, pay attention to how your hair reacts to different temperature settings as you become more familiar with the tool.

Another tried-and-true defense mechanism is to prep your blowout with a heat protectant. Cosmetic chemist Ginger King tells Allure, "If you're using heat styler or any heat products directly on hair, using a heat protectant, usually made with meadowfoam seed oil, light polymers, or even silicone, can help to minimize damage as they can form a coating on hair." But the best way to fend off heat damage is to not overuse heat on your hair—plain and simple.

Are hair-dryer brushes easier to use than traditional hair-dryers?

Choosing a new hair tool is a matter of personal preference, but shoppers and professional hairstylists alike vouch for the ease of use of hair-dryer brushes. “Blow-dry brushes are so incredibly user-friendly—you can achieve a great blow-dry at home without needing pro-level skills. They take about half the time compared to juggling a dryer and a round brush,” says Baker.

Additionally, if you have pain or limited mobility in your hands or arms, a hair-dryer brush is an excellent alternative to a traditional blow-dryer. “Because they’re easier to maneuver, you’re less likely to tire out your arms or need a second round of styling with a flat iron or curling iron,” says Baker. That said, be sure to let your hair air-dry about 70%—or give it a quick rough dry with a traditional blow-dryer—before reaching for your brush. Starting on damp strands helps prevent breakage and ensures a smoother, frizz-free finish, as these tools aren’t designed for sopping-wet hair.

How do I clean my hair-dryer brush?

Hair-dryer brushes come in a range of designs, so depending on the type of barrel, bristles, or shape of your tool, cleaning techniques may vary. "Every brand has different features, but if yours has a filter, remove the dust from it every week," says Devin Toth, a New York City-based hairstylist. "If you are interested in removing hair from the bristles, use either a comb or a boar bristle brush cleaner—a brush used to clean other brushes," he suggests.

To remove product buildup from the bristles of your blow dryer brush, wipe it down with a damp cloth. Cherin Choi, a Los Angeles-based hairstylist, previously told Allure that if product buildup won't budge, she uses a small amount of rubbing alcohol to tackle residue from hairsprays, pomades, and the like.

Remember that cleaning your hot tool regularly is critical to peak performance. "[The product/hair buildup] can prevent your tools from working at full capacity," Atlanta-based hairstylist Tukia Allen told Allure. Brian O'Connor, a Nashville-based hairstylist, agreed with Allen, adding that a hot tool with buildup can lead to the "uneven heating of the hair."

Meet the experts

• Tukia Allen, a stylist based in Atlanta
• Reagan Baker, a stylist and founder of House of Reagan based in New York City
• Cherin Choi, a stylist based in Los Angeles
• Linda Gattineri, a colorist and owner of Equo Co. based in Del Mar, California
• Ginger King, a cosmetic chemist based in Parsippany, New Jersey
• Brian O'Connor, a stylist based in Nashville
• Takisha Sturdivant-Drew, a stylist based in New York City
• Devin Toth, a stylist based in New York City
• Jennifer Korab, a stylist based in New York City

How we test and review products

We always enlist a range of testers for our makeup vertical, but hair-care products and tools are another story. While there are certain products that can be used across different hair textures, lengths, curl patterns, thicknesses, colors (natural and unnatural), and needs, hair products are often created with specific consumers in mind. Many are created in order to address a concern (dandruff, breakage, brittleness) or to work most effectively for a specific hair type (4C curls, wavy hair, gray hair). You wouldn’t want to pick up a purple shampoo that’s only been reviewed by someone with, say, auburn hair, or a diffuser that’s never been tested by anyone with curls— right?

For our review of the best hair-dryer brushes, we enlisted the help of multiple editors, writers, contributors, and stylists—each of whom have different hair types, experiences with hair-drying, and desired outcomes. Testers considered performance across four primary categories: efficacy, versatility, ease of use, and value. For more on what's involved in our reporting, check out our complete reviews process and methodology page.

Our staff and testers

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

After all, can we really say a skin-care product is the "best" for people over 50 if the only testers we’ve solicited opinions from folks who have yet to hit 30? Can we honestly deem a high-end diffuser 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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A good fragrance has always been an act of branding: You’re woodsy and mysterious, you’re light and fresh, you’re sweet and floral. For many, fragrance is not just an accessory; it’s an identity. So it’s no wonder that consumers today have looked for ways to extend this identity into other categories. If you love smelling like coconut, why not go all in and make everything smell like coconut? That means candles, air fresheners, detergent, and lately, hair care.

Not that great-smelling shampoo is anything new (hello, ’90s Herbal Essences). These days, though, consumers are looking for a high-end, sensorial experience from their hair care. And with the economy in flux, they’re demanding more bang for their buck. It’s not enough that a premium hair-care product makes your hair look and feel great. It should smell great—and maybe even do the dishes for you at a certain price point.

TikTok, as usual, helps the trend along. “PerfumeTok is normalizing scent rituals like layering perfumes, mists, oils, and hair scents as tools for identity and self-expression,” says Amy Rueckl, marketing director of fine fragrance at International Flavors and Fragrances (IFF), a global brand that creates scents and flavors for consumer products. People want to telegraph something about themselves with the way that they smell, that they’re cool and beachy, rich and unbothered, earthy and bohemian. She notes that hair and body mists saw double-digit market growth in early 2025, “proving marketplace demand for lighter, re-applicable scent formats that function as daily accessories.”

Hair care is a natural evolution for fragrance. In fact, those looking to build out a scent wardrobe beyond their wrists may find hair to be an accessible entry point to explore luxury fragrances simply because the format feels familiar. And seemingly everyone is trying to get a piece of the budding market. Fragrance brands, like Fulton & Roark or Byredo, are releasing their own hair-care products. And some hair-care brands, like Ceremonia, Ouai, and Kerastase are capitalizing on signature eau de parfums and turning them into allover hair and body mists. Others are looking to collaborate, like the K18 and Future Society hair mask partnership and last year's Ellis Brooklyn and Amika Miami Nectar Dry Shampoo.

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Fulton & Roark

Formula 5 Oil

$60

Neiman Marcus

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K18 X Future Society

Leave-In Molecular Repair Hair Mask

$75

K18

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Ceremonia

Perfume Mist de Guava

$38

Sephora

$38

Revolve

$38

Credo Beauty

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Ouai

Hair and Body Mist in St. Barts

$28

Amazon

$28

Ulta Beauty

$28

Sephora

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Kérastase

Gloss Absolu Hair Perfume

$39

Sephora

$39

Kohl’s

Why is hair scenting a thing?

The growth of the “hair as scent” category sees no end—largely because it works. “Hair is a fantastic [fragrance] diffuser,” says Kevin Keller, cofounder of Fulton & Roark. “It tends to project more dynamically than on skin because of the relative movement.”

That, and scents tend to last longer on hair. (Ever smell your pillow the night after a bonfire?) “Hair is composed primarily of keratin, a fibrous protein with a complex structure that can bind and trap fragrance molecules,” says Hallie McDonald, MD, an Austin, Texas-based, board-certified dermatologist. “The cuticle, which is the outermost layer of the hair shaft, has overlapping scales that create small spaces where compounds can settle.”

And while the porous nature of hair allows fragrance to really diffuse over time, skin is biologically active. “It produces sweat and sebum and is constantly shedding cells. That contributes to more rapid fragrance evaporation and breakdown.” It also has a warmer surface temperature than hair, which speeds up evaporation.

If you really want to leave a lasting impression, your hair is a good place to start.

Can't I just use eau de parfum in my hair?

“Why would I spend money on a hair fragrance when I could just spray my perfume onto my hair?” you may be asking. Well, that’s a bit like using Febreeze on your wrists as a perfume. Can you do it? Sure. Should you do it? Probably not.

Eau de parfum (EDP) and eau de toilette (EDT), and all the various concentrations therein, rely on alcohol as a carrier and solvent. “Fragrance itself does not inherently hurt the cuticle, but the combination of high alcohol content and repeated exposure can exacerbate dryness and brittleness,” says Dr. McDonald. “Alcohol evaporates quickly, which helps disperse scent, but it can also temporarily strip lipids and moisture from the hair shaft.” Plus, you’re not doing your scalp any favors by spraying irritating ingredients onto it, especially if you have a history of eczema, psoriasis, or seborrheic dermatitis. (Certain ingredients, like cold-pressed citrus oil, can be photosensitizing in very high concentrations, says Dr. McDonald, though it’s uncommon.)

“The fundamental difference comes down to alcohol content,” says Patty Hidalgo, vice president perfumer for IFF. “Hair mists and hair perfumes are formulated with low to no alcohol to avoid drying out or damaging the hair.” And one does not simply drop their fragrance recipe into a conditioner, shake it up, and call it a day. Not only are there regulatory differences and exposure limits, says New York-based perfumer Darryl Do, but certain formulas that are stable in alcohol might not be in an oil or a cream.

“Making a perfume smell good in alcohol is completely different from making a shampoo smell good,” adds fragrance influencer Emma, the perfumer student behind the social media account @perfumerism. “The chemical environments are completely different.”

And since we have higher expectations for our hair-care (and all) products these days, it doesn’t hurt if they also have nourishing ingredients. Dr. McDonald recommends looking for humectants like glycerin (The Signature Scent's hair fragrance contains glycerin and aloe) or panthenol to help retain moisture, conditioning silicones like dimethicone to smooth the cuticle, and lightweight oils for softness (Gisou's hair perfume is formulated with softening argan oil).

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Gisou

Honey Infused Hair Perfume

$44

Amazon

$44

Sephora

$44

Revolve

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Crown Affair

Signature Hair Fragrance

$85

Sephora

Your favorite eau de parfum may smell slightly different as a hair fragrance.

If a brand is attempting to repackage its signature scent as a hair-care product or vice versa, “The challenge is that fragrance DNA is deeply tied to the interaction between the formula and the base it's delivered in. The top notes especially can shift dramatically,” says Keller.

Also, some fragrance notes lend themselves to hair products more than others. “Musks cling to the hair, and woods and ambers can maintain a presence without alcohol lift,” says Do. “Synthetic florals, rather than delicate natural materials, withstand stability, heat, and styling better.”

On the other hand, citrus notes or delicate natural absolutes can be volatile, discolor certain bases, or may just not make sense economically for a rinse-off product. “Vanilla is an example of something that performs well in fine fragrance, but struggles in hair care,” says Emma. “Vanillin is a long-lasting base note in the perfume world, but since it has a low LogP (the measure of the ability of a chemical compound to dissolve in fats and oils) of 1, it is one of the least long-lasting in a hair product.” Ultimately, it’s a delicate balance.

“Maintaining DNA is less about copying the formula and more about capturing the feeling and character of the original—the emotional impression—which requires real creative and technical skill to pull off,” says Keller. One clear example of this is Dyptique’s Orpheon, which smells different as an EDT, EDP, and hair mist. All evoke the same vintage vibe, though. Byredo's Bal D'Afrique smells lighter as a hair perfume than an EDP, but both have a similar creamy, floral essence.

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Diptyque

Orphéon Hair Mist

$85

Diptyque

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Byredo

Bal D’Afrique Hair Perfume

$90

Nordstrom

$90

Macy’s

“Every fragrance is unique and has its own opportunities for ancillary development,” says Hidalgo. “When translating a fragrance that is a signature EDT or EDP, we might soften the top notes or rebalance the heavier base notes, for example, but perfumers approach each fragrance individually as a work of art and science to make sure that the result is as close as possible to the original.”

“Consumers expect it to smell like the original perfume, and it should, but it will most likely not be identical,” adds Do.

How to build your hair-fragrance wardrobe

Buying hair care for the scent isn’t typically meant to replace your daily spritz of eau de parfum (though it’s a great entry point if you haven’t dabbled in fragrance at all). Instead, look at scent for your hair as an extension of your fragrance wardrobe. A way to really immerse yourself and your lifestyle in a signature scent. “Each product adds a different layer,” says Do. “You are building your own fragrance bubble at that point, individualizing it more and more.”

“To avoid overwhelming the senses, it’s best to apply hair perfume lightly, focusing on mid-lengths to ends, and to select scents from complementary fragrance families so they harmonize rather than compete,” says Rachael Larsen, associate fragrance development manager at DSM-Firmenich, who also recommends combing the product through your hair for even distribution. “This approach allows for a layered, multidimensional scent experience that feels cohesive and intentional.”

If layering feels too intimidating, you can stick to one signature scent across products. “The most reliable way to avoid clashing entirely is to layer with the same scent across product formats,” says Keller. “That's a core reason why we offer our fragrances across multiple formats—solid cologne, oil, bar soap, deodorant. You're not just adding fragrance, you're building depth because each format releases scent differently and at different rates, so the cumulative effect is richer and longer-lasting than any single product could achieve alone. And because everything is working from the same olfactory blueprint, nothing competes.”

Athena Club's hair and body mist, for example, is designed to be spritzed on the mid-lengths of the hair and on your body, so you get a full immersion of the scent diffusing differently. They also have matching lotions and deodorants (and sell them in trios) so you can double or triple-down on your favorite fragrance line. Or if you happen to love the scent of Moroccanoil hair products, you can start with their shampoo and conditioner and follow with their EDP on your wrists.

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Athena Club

Hair & Body Mist

$16

Athena Club

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Moroccanoil

L’Originale Moroccanoil Eau de Parfum

$105

Ulta Beauty

$105

Sephora

If you want to build a more dynamic fragrance wardrobe with layered scents and notes, intention is key. “Matching fragrance families usually works well, like woody with woody,” says Do. Contrasting ingredients can also work, says Hidalgo, but it takes some thought. She recommends complementary counterpoints like “clean musk”—clean being on the fresh and bright end of the spectrum, musk having a warmer, earthier feel. They layer like building blocks (heavier musk as the foundation), but both are minimalist and natural, which ties them together well. If this all sounds like a foreign language, check out the notes of your favorite fragrances and see what’s paired together.

The application can also be gamed out for maximum effect: “Stagger or layer formats for peak performance, starting with a scented hair treatment or oil, adding a veil of mist, and finishing with a skin EDP to maximize last and minimize clash,” says Hidalgo.

Ultimately, it’s a personal journey. “There are no firm rules,” says Emma.

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 hair fragrances, we considered each product's performance across five primary categories: product ingredients, efficacy, fragrance, texture, and product wear. Our editorial team, which is composed of in-house writers, editors, and contributors, determined that every product excelled in each category—along with special consideration from board-certified dermatologists. To learn more information on our reporting and testing processes, read our complete reviews process and methodology page.

Our staff and testers

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

Meet the experts

• Darryl Do is a perfumer based in New York City.
• Rachael Larsen is associate fragrance development manager for DSM-Firmenich, a fragrance ingredient company.
• Kevin Keller is co-founder of Fulton & Roark.
• Patty Hidalgo is VP perfumer at International Flavors and Fragrances (IFF).
• Amy Rueckl is the marketing director of fine fragrance (North America) at IFF.
• Hallie McDonald, MD, is a board-certified dermatologist based in Austin, TX, and co-founder of ERLY.
• Emma is the owner and operator of @perfumerism, a social media account dedicated to fragrance.

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Did you see photos of the inimitable Bad Bunny at the Met Gala? Old Bunny! Or, as one writer described him: Bad Rabbit.

Looking very much like a Diego Velázquez portrait of an aging Madrid nobleman, with a manicured gray beard and mustache, age-spotted hands, and elegant cane, 32-year-old Benito Antonio Martínez Ocasio added about 50 well-lived years to his profile. Bad Bunny’s past Met Gala looks have included a backless blazer and a 26-foot flowered train, and a boilersuit paired with a bejeweled bouffant. This year, he wore a classic all-black suit (custom Zara), with—because he’s still Bad Bunny and gender norms must at least be somewhat flouted—an oversized pussy bow around his neck (a reference to designer Charles James’s 1947 gown “Bustle,” which is part of the Costume Institute’s permanent collection). Prosthetics designer (and many time Best Makeup Academy Award nominee) Mike Marino was the artist behind every age spot vein and crease on Bad Bunny's face, neck, and hands. (Marino incidentally also did Heidi Klum’s makeup and prosthetics for this year’s Met, creating both an octogenarian and a Vestal Virgin, two categories of people one is least likely to see on a red carpet.)

Obviously, it was a considered choice, as the Met Costume Institute’s 2026 exhibition focuses on the relationship between fashion and the many forms of the human body. For the exhibition, the museum even created 25 new mannequins to include amongst its usual sylphlike models—there are larger bodies, dwarf bodies, pregnant bodies, bodies with prosthetics, bodies in wheelchairs, and yes the aging bodies rarely seen in the context of fashion. From the exhibition catalog: “Perhaps reflecting our fear of having to face our own mortality, the youth-oriented fashion industry has traditionally ignored the aged body.” Perhaps?

The most fun thing about his costume? He can take it off.

I’m reminded of a video clip I saw not long ago of Isabella Rossellini looking far older than her 73 years while shooting a film in Italy. She remarked that for movie roles, she’s now often made up to appear older than she looks. Why? She’s aging without interventions, which seems to make her vulnerable to add-ons. You want to look natural as you age? Great! We’ll make you look the most natural, we’ll agemaxx you, here, have another 10 years.

It seems we have some confusing feelings about human bodies showing their age. I think it’s fun that Bad Bunny showed up in an old-age costume at the Met Gala last night. But I’d love for him to keep his costume on for a week, so I could watch his response to the inevitable ageism, the slights small and large, likely to confound him as he traveled in his older (young) body. The most fun thing about his costume? He can take it off.

Most Met Gala attendees of course prepared for the big night (and some, for the rest of their lives) by submitting to procedures aiming to keep them youthful, or diminish even the most subtle manifestations of age. With flawless makeup and flattering red carpet lighting, 70-year-old Kris Jenner’s facelift was looking once again like our filtered ideal and everyone’s heartfelt slippage concerns have been allayed. Nicole Kidman, 58, resembled an adolescent Rapunzel, and 43-year-old Anne Hathaway does not appear to have aged a day since the first installment of The Devil Wears Prada premiered in 2006. We can be amused, however, by one of the guests play-acting what it’s like to forswear all of that clock-stopping intervention, pretending that he’s the old person he hopes he will one day be.

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

There's nothing comfortable (or fun) about flaky, peeling, or dry lips, which is why we stay well-stocked with the best lip balms for chapped lips. You can trust we've tried every beauty product under the sun: medicated balms, do-it-all salves, SPF-spiked formulas, exfoliating scrubs—we've even slapped on overnight masks made just for your pout.

If your current lip balm isn't doing it for you anymore, it's time to make a switch—most likely to something simpler. Connecticut-based board-certified dermatologist Mona Gohara, MD, has previously compared lip balms to quenching your thirst with a can of soda. "You drink something that appeals to the senses with no nutritional value, and shortly thereafter, you are still thirsty," she explains. "The same thing goes for balms loaded with flavor, fragrance, and menthol." That doesn't mean you have to completely avoid tasty or tingly balms; in fact, there are a few we really love on this list. Just be sure to pay attention to what is and isn't working for you. Below, we're sharing the best lip-care products we've tried to date, including Best of Beauty winners (hey, Nécessaire and Summer Fridays). Happy swiping!

Our Top Lip Balms for Dry Lips

• Best Overall: Summer Fridays Lip Butter Balm, $26
• Best Multipurpose: Glossier Balm Dot Com, $16
• Best for Sensitive Skin: Nécessaire The Lip Balm, $28
• Best for Peeling Lips: Eadem Le Chouchou Lip Softening Balm, $24
• Best Pigmented: Chanel Coco Rouge Baume, $50
• Best Under-$10: Nyx Professional Makeup Smushy Matte Lip Balm, $9

Frequently Asked QuestionsAccordionItemContainerButtonLargeChevron

• Can you “overuse” lip balm?
• Why do lips feel drier after using some lip balms?
• What ingredients should I look for in a hydrating lip balm?
• Meet the experts
• How we test and review products
• Our staff and testers

Best Overall: Summer Fridays Lip Butter Balm

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Summer Fridays

Lip Butter Balm

$26

Amazon

$24

Sephora

Allure commerce producer Sarah Hoffman applying the Summer Fridays Lip Butter Balm

Sarah Hoffmann

Why it's worth it: When you want the deep hydration of an overnight mask but the lightweight feel of a lip gloss, reach for Summer Fridays’ Lip Butter Balm—a 2023 and 2024 Best of Beauty Award winner and a TikTok staple. This buttery balm started with a single Vanilla flavor and has since expanded to 10 shades and scents, including cozy Brown Sugar, juicy Cherry, and shimmery Birthday Cake. The formula packs emollients like shea and murumuru seed butters to condition dry lips, as well as vegan waxes that smooth uneven texture and lock in moisture for hours. It delivers a glossy, plush finish that feels less like makeup and more like skin care.

Allure commerce editor Sarah Han applying the Summer Fridays Lip Butter Balm

Sarah Han

Han after applying the Summer Fridays Lip Butter Balm

Sarah Han

Tester feedback from commerce editor Sarah Han

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“If I ever don't have at least one of these Summer Friday Lip Butter Balms on hand or in my bag, something's off. Not only do they keep coming out with scrumptious flavors—hello, Iced Coffee!—but they also smooth over my dry, textured lips with just one swipe. Even though I usually layer up, it never feels heavy or greasy. My lips look absolutely glistening, which is a far cry from their usual pale, flaky state. I love a punch of color and rarely wear untinted lip balms, so Summer Fridays' tint offerings (which do include a clear shade) really speak to me. For a true my-lips-but-better look, I reach for Pink Guava (what I'm wearing here), but if I'm in the mood for something bolder, Cherry is my girl.” —Sarah Han, commerce editor

Tester feedback from commerce producer Sarah Hoffman

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“Thick, shiny, and yummy. That’s all you really need to know about Summer Friday’s Lip Butter Balm, which comes in 11 mouthwatering flavors. The new scent and shade options keep me coming back tube after tube.” —Sarah Hoffman, commerce producer

More to know

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• Key ingredients: shea butter, murumuru seed butter
• Shades: 11 (including clear)

Best Multipurpose: Glossier Balm Dot Com

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Glossier

Balm Dotcom

$16

Amazon

$16

Sephora

$16

Glossier

Allure contributing commerce writer Christa Joanna Lee applying Glossier Balm Dotcom in Peppermint Bark

Christa Joanna Lee

Why it's worth it: When Glossier first debuted, it did so with just four products—and one of them quickly became the now-iconic Balm Dotcom. The multipurpose salve became an instant classic for its glossy finish, long-lasting moisture, and minimalist packaging. While it was reformulated in 2023, Glossier’s loyal community (which has always been central to the brand) demanded the original back, and the brand listened. The OG formula returns with castor seed oil to deeply nourish, beeswax to seal in hydration, and lanolin to soften and protect dry, cracked skin. And while it’s made for lips, Glossier encourages using it anywhere you need extra moisture (think cuticles, elbows, or any dry patch that needs a little TLC).

Lee before applying the Glossier Balm Dotcom in Peppermint Bark

Christa Joanna Lee

Lee after applying the Glossier Balm Dotcom in Peppermint Bark

Christa Joanna Lee

Tester feedback from contributing commerce writer Christa Joanna Lee

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“I’m so picky about lip balm texture—too thin and it disappears instantly, too thick and it leaves that weird waxy film. Glossier’s Balm Dotcom nails the perfect in-between: cushy, hydrating, and more about deep moisture than shine (which, TBH, is way more important to me). I’ve been loving the new Peppermint Bark flavor—it’s not aggressively minty, just gives the perfect little zing.” —Christa Joanna Lee, contributing commerce writer

More to know

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• Key ingredients: castor seed oil, beeswax, lanolin, sunflower extract
• Shades: 11 (including clear/fragrance-free)

Best for Sensitive Skin: Nécessaire The Lip Balm

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Nécessaire

The Lip Balm

$28

Amazon

$28

Nordstrom

$28

Sephora

Allure beauty director Sarah Kinonen applying the Necessaire The Lip Balm

Sarah Kinonen

Why it’s worth it: Hypoallergenic, non-comedogenic, and approved by the National Eczema Association—if you have sensitive skin, those phrases are music to your ears. Nécessaire The Lip Balm, a 2025 Best of Beauty Award winner, checks all those boxes and then some. The formula blends niacinamide, essential ceramides, hyaluronic acid, and Centella asiatica extract into a base of luxe shea butter to restore and strengthen the lips’ delicate skin. “It’s made without synthetic fragrances and uses only skin-beneficial ingredients that hydrate, smooth, and protect,” says Anna Chacon, MD, a board-certified dermatologist, based in Miami. “Its clear, semi-gloss finish delivers immediate relief for dry, chapped lips.” A hint of pure mint oil adds freshness with every swipe, while the cooling metal tip soothes on contact.

Tester feedback from beauty director Sarah Kinonen

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“The way I screamed when I received this during testing…I’ve been waiting for a Nécessaire lip balm, and it definitely didn’t disappoint! I love that it’s slippery like a gloss and minty like a balm, but glides on like my favorite eye cream with its cooling-to-the-touch metal applicator.” —Sarah Kinonen, beauty director

Tester feedback from former senior news editor Nicola Dall’Asen

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“In middle school, I used to slather this super tingly mint lip balm that I'd buy at the mall all over my mouth basically 24/7, and I'm pretty sure it was so fragranced and menthol-heavy that it actually wound up making me more chapped (ah, the vicious lip balm cycle). Necessaire's Lip Balm is the skin-friendly adult version of my old favorite. It's got a slightly sweet minty flavor, and I still get the cooling effect from its metal applicator. But this formula, unlike its predecessor, is ceramide-packed, which means it actually repairs and plumps the skin of the lips. It's effective enough that I only need to apply it every now and then—and that's exactly how you want a lip balm to perform, if my tween experiences have taught me anything.” —Nicola Dall'Asen, former senior news editor

More to know

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• Key ingredients: niacinamide, ceramides, hyaluronic acid, Centella asiatica extract
• Shades: 1 (clear)

Best for Peeling Lips: Eadem Le Chouchou Lip Softening Balm

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Eadem

Le Chouchou Lip Softening Balm

$24

Amazon

$24

Sephora

Allure commerce editor Sarah Han applying the Eadem Le Chouchou Lip Softening Balm in Bissap Glaze

Sarah Han

Why it's worth it: Eadem's Le Chouchou Lip Softening Balm has taken over our social feeds, and we're here to confirm the buzz surrounding this jelly-like balm is well-deserved. The biggest star factor comes from the gentle exfoliating ingredients, hibiscus enzymes, and lactic acid, which elevate this from a regular lip balm to one that actually helps treat chapped lips and leaves your lips looking smoother than ever. “Anyone with dry, peeling lips or anyone looking for exfoliation would like this formula, which has alpha hydroxy acids and peptides that help reduce the appearance of wrinkles, and plump the skin in the lips,” Corey L. Hartman, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in Alabama, previously explained. The cooling metal applicator adds an extra soothing touch, as well as softening Brazilian açaí and African mongongo butters, formula-wise.

The shade range is another standout: nine richly pigmented hues—unique ones at that, like Boba Bounce (rich soft brown) and Fig Sauce (cool mauve)—that adorn your lips with a deliciously glossy finish.

Han applying the Eadem Le Chouchou Lip Softening Balm in Bissap Glaze

Sarah Han

Han applying the Eadem Le Chouchou Lip Softening Balm in Bissap Glaze

Sarah Han

Tester feedback from Han

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“It took me long enough to try this beloved lip balm, but I fully support the hype around it. Le Chouchou is thicker and more cushiony than your average balm, so it feels extra conditioning—perfect for my perpetually chapped lips. The fact that there are chemical exfoliants baked into the formula takes them straight to S-tier lip balms. My lips flake pretty easily but now I can treat them during the daytime, instead of only relying on a lip mask at night. My lips feel instantly smooth and the color range is chef's kiss, too. I'm a sucker for berry hues like Bissap Glaze but will definitely be reaching for Guava Fresca on minimal makeup days.” —Sarah Han, commerce editor

More to know

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• Key ingredients: hibiscus enzymes, Brazilian açaí and African mongongo butters, collagen-boosting peptide
• Shades: 9 (including clear)

Best Pigmented: Chanel Rouge Coco Baume Satin Lip Balm

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Chanel

Rouge Coco Baume Satin

$50

Chanel

$50

Nordstrom

$50

Ulta Beauty

Allure senior commerce director Shanna Shipin applying the Chanel Rouge Coco Baume Satin Lip Balm in Anemone

Shanna Shipin

Why it’s worth it: Listed under “everyday luxury” in our proverbial beauty dictionary, you'll find Chanel's Rouge Coco Baume Satin Lip Balm. We love how classic the shade range is, from barely-there neutrals to richer berry tones: Each hue starts sheer but is very buildable, so you can customize your finish. Not sure where to start? One editor called 914 Natural Charm her perfect nude lipstick. The satin, your-lips-but-better finish is supported by ingredients such as squalane, olive fruit oil/leaves, and shea butter, which keep lips feeling soft and comfortable all day long.

Allure senior commerce director Shanna Shipin before applying the Chanel Rouge Coco Baume Satin Lip Balm in Anemone

Shanna Shipin

Allure senior commerce director Shanna Shipin after applying the Chanel Rouge Coco Baume Satin Lip Balm in Anemone

Shanna Shipin

Tester feedback from senior commerce director Shanna Shipin

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“It's no wonder Sophia Richie Grainge wore this lip product on her wedding day—it's the one. Just the right amount of sheer, buildable color, and an ultra-comfy wear that will have you forget that you even applied any lip product at all. It glides over the lips—yes, even my craggly-scraggly and dry, peeling pout—without a skip. It makes your lips appear fuller and juicier—and the shade range is beautiful. There are classic rosey hues, beautiful peach and corals, and really wearable nudes. While I love the 914 Natural Charm for everyday wear, Anemone is a limited-edition summer shade that I can't get enough of; it's a joyful red-orange that brightens my whole face up.”—Shanna Shipin, senior commerce director

More to know

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• Key ingredients: squalane, olive fruit oil, olive leaf extract, shea butter, vitamin E
• Available shades: 9 (including clear)

Best Under-$10: Nyx Professional Makeup Smushy Matte Lip Balm

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Nyx Professional Makeup

Smushy Matte Lip Balm

$8

Amazon

$9

Ulta Beauty

Allure contributing commerce writer Christa Joanna Lee applying the Nyx Professional Makeup Smushy Matte Lip Balm in Snuggle Szn

Christa Joanna Lee

Why it’s worth it: A matte lip balm? We get it—it sounds like an oxymoron. But Nyx Professional Makeup’s Smushy Matte Lip Balm somehow makes it make sense. This is your classic balm feel, reimagined with a plush, blurred, and soft-matte finish. The texture lives up to the name—pillowy and cushiony, thanks to a silicone-rich base that glides on seamlessly and wraps lips in comfort without ever feeling dry. Mochi-inspired rice powder gives a diffused effect, while sugar ceramides and shea butter lock in moisture, keeping lips smooth and hydrated. The smushy applicator (truly, no better word for it) and subtly sweet scents make the whole experience feel a little more fun and playful. According to our tester, it’s the definition of low-effort, high impact.

Lee before applying the Nyx Professional Makeup Smushy Matte Lip Balm in Snuggle Szn

Christa Joanna Lee

Lee after applying the Nyx Professional Makeup Smushy Matte Lip Balm in Snuggle Szn

Christa Joanna Lee

Tester feedback from contributing commerce writer Christa Joanna Lee

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“I’m not—repeat, not—a lip person. I have chronically dry lips, and I usually can’t stand the feel of gloss or most balms. So the fact that I’m fully hooked on this says everything. It gives me that comfortable, hydrated feel without any of the shine I usually avoid, and the soft-matte finish just makes my lips look better with zero effort. The shade Snuggle Szn is my ideal blushy nude. I loved it so much I bought four, just to make sure I’m never without one.” —Christa Joanna Lee, contributing commerce writer

More to know

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• Key ingredients: ceramides, shea butter, rice powder, silicones
• Shades: 12 (including clear)

Best for Discoloration: S'able Labs Moringa Lip Salve

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S'Able Labs

Moringa Lip Salve

$23

Amazon

$23

S’Able Labs

Allure content director Sophia Panych applying the S’able Labs Moringa Lip Salve

Sophie Panych

Why it’s worth it: Far from just another celebrity beauty brand, S’able Labs’ Moringa Lip Salve makes lip care feel personal. Created by actors Sabrina and Idris Elba, the brand is designed for melanated skin, specifically addressing concerns like uneven lip tone and discoloration that are often overlooked. The Lip Salve draws on Sabrina’s Somali heritage, spotlighting African ingredients like moringa seed oil—the so-called “miracle tree”—paired with ultra-nourishing castor oil, antioxidant-rich marula oil, and prickly pear seed oil for a formula that feels equal parts treatment and indulgence. There’s also the addition of licorice root extract, known for reducing discoloration over time. The base provides a cushiony, gloss-like slip, while glycerin and sodium hyaluronate keep lips soft and hydrated.

It comes in a clear version for your low-maintenance days, but the tinted shades are where things get fun—think Jollof, a warm, culture-celebrating nod to the iconic West African dish, and Sister Wife, a cheeky wink to how Sabrina jokingly refers to Idris’ many admirers.

Panych before applying the S’able Labs Moringa Lip Salve

Sophie Panych

Panych after applying the S’able Labs Moringa Lip Salve

Sophie Panych

Tester feedback from content director Sophia Panych

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“A tube of this lip balm has been at my makeup table ever since I tried it for the first time. I apply it before I start my makeup every morning and before I get into bed every night. What I love is that it’s thick enough to feel ridiculously hydrating but without feeling or looking goopy—in fact, it leaves a really pretty glossy finish that makes lips look fuller.  I think what makes this formula especially effective is that the moisture and comfort it leaves behind lasts for hours and hours, which means one tube goes a long way. I also appreciate that it has zero taste, which I personally find very off-putting in a gloss.” —Sophia Panych, content director

More to know

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• Key ingredients: moringa, marula oil, castor oil, prickly pear seed oil, glycerin, sodium hyaluronate, licorice root extract
• Shades: 3 (including clear)

Best Plumping: Ole Henriksen Pout Preserve Peptide Lip Treatment

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Ole Henriksen

Pout Preserve Peptide Lip Treatment

$23

Sephora

$23

Ulta Beauty

Allure commerce producer Sarah Hoffmann applying the Ole Henriksen Pout Preserve Peptide Lip Treatment

Sarah Hoffmann

Why it's worth it: If you haven't already gathered, peptides are an excellent ingredient for those who want plumper lips instantly—without any sting. (Basically, all of us!) Ole Henricksen’s Pout Preserve Lip Treatment has been an editor-favorite for years now, even picking up a 2024 Allure Best of Beauty Award for best daytime balm. This cushiony formula features not one, but two peptides (palmitoyl hexapeptide-12 and palmitoyl tripeptide-1) to lend lips a fuller look, while a nourishing blend of kokum butter, mango seed butter, and cloudberry oil provides additional softening, moisture-boosting benefits. And don't get us started on the yummy scents: Crème Brûlèe, Strawberry Sorbet, and Vanilla Bonbon (as well as occasional limited-edition colors) have us hooked.

P.S. The Pout Preserve Lip Treatments are so popular that Ole Henriksen has since expanded the collection to include Glimmers (shimmer-speckled) and Chillers (cooling sensation).

Hoffmann before applying the Ole Henriksen Pout Preserve Peptide Lip Treatment

Sarah Hoffmann

Hoffmann after applying the Ole Henriksen Pout Preserve Peptide Lip Treatment

Sarah Hoffmann

Tester feedback from Hoffmann

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“The thick, glossy texture of this lip balm is perfection to me. It sits on your lips like a mask, which is so soothing when I'm really dry. I was years late to this product—my fellow editors were onto it way before I was—so when I finally got to try it I knew it was going to be good. What I didn't know I was that I was going to go through my first tube so quickly that I had to restock much sooner than I anticipated. If you spot me out with a glossy lip, there's a 75% change it's Cocoa Crème over faded lipstick, like I'm wearing here.” —Sarah Hoffmann, commerce producer

Tester feedback from managing editor Alessandra Foresto

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“Fun fact: Suni Lee first introduced me to this hydrating lip product when she was asked what her lip combo was at the last Olympics, and she delivered a TikTok with the details. Since then, this lip treatment has become one of my go-to lip products. It's hydrating but doesn’t feel sticky. The shades are very flattering (I have not yet met one I don't love, but my tube of Cocoa Crème is almost out, so I definitely gravitate to that one the most) and buildable. I use a lip liner with it to make the color last all day and my lips feel soft and smooth at the end of the day!” —Alessandra Foresto, managing editor

More to know

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• Key ingredients: palmitoyl hexapeptide-12, palmitoyl tripeptide-1, kokum and mango seed butters, Scandinavian cloudberry oil, acai sterols
• Available shades: 7 (including a clear-ish shade, Vanilla Bonbon)

Best K-Beauty: Unleashia Sunset Dazzle Gloss Balm

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Unleashia

Sunset Dazzle Gloss Balm

$16

Amazon

$16

Ulta Beauty

$17

Yesstyle

Why it’s worth it: The popular K-beauty brand Unleashia may be better known for their viral Glitterpedia Eye Palettes packed with sparkle, but don’t worry—there’s no glitter in the Sunset Dazzle Gloss Balm. And yet, it still shines. Instead of shimmer, you’re getting that signature K-beauty high-gloss, glassy finish thanks to a plush blend of emollients that melt into lips with a cushiony, almost lacquer-like slip. What gives it that K-beauty edge is the makeup-meets-treatment approach: Peptides, vitamin C (ascorbic acid), and yuzu extract smooth, soften, and add antioxidant support.

For a brand built on self-expression without limits (its name blending “unleash” and “utopia”), even the shade names feel like an escape—think Ibiza, Amalfi, and Bondi Beach—so every swipe doubles as a mini vacation.

Han applying the Unleashia Sunset Dazzle Gloss Balm in No.3 Ibiza

Sarah Han

Han after applying the Unleashia Sunset Dazzle Gloss Balm in No.3 Ibiza

Sarah Han

Tester feedback from Han

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“I never really fancied myself a glossy girl, but these hi-shine Unleashia gloss balms make my lips too juicy for words! The shades are extra pretty and vibrant as far as tinted lip balms go—my favorite shades, Ibiza and Bora Bora, pack a real punch of color. I'm obsessed and will continue collecting them all. This says a lot because I have an excess of tinted lip balms (I don't really ever wear clear ones), and most just gather dust on my vanity, whereas at least one Unleashia balm is on me at all times. Yes, they don't last very long, but reapplication is so fun with that cute, squishy, and donut-like top, so who cares? Unleashia is definitely a Korean makeup brand to watch out for!” —Sarah Han, commerce editor

More to know

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• Key ingredients: peptides (acetyl hexapeptide-8, palmitoyl pentapeptide-4), vitamin C (ascorbic acid), yuzu
• Shades: 7 (including clear)

Best with SPF: Supergoop Glow Gloss SPF 40 Lip Balm

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Supergoop!

Glow Gloss SPF 40 Lip Balm

$22

Amazon

$22

Nordstrom

$22

Revolve

Kinonen applying the Supergoop Glow Gloss SPF 40 Lip Balm

Sarah Kinonen

Why it’s worth it: Lips are one of the easiest places to forget SPF, but they’re also one of the most vulnerable, thanks to thinner skin and minimal natural protection from UV rays. Supergoop’s Glow Gloss SPF 40 Lip Balm makes daily lip protection feel like a treat. "Using lip balms with sunscreen can also help prevent cold sores, as sun exposure can cause these spots to appear," Sejal Shah, MD, a New York City-based board-certified dermatologist, told Allure. This glossy balm uses a blend of chemical filters (and yes, formulas like these are designed with the expectation that a small amount will be ingested throughout the day) to deliver high-level, broad-spectrum protection while leaving lips with a high-shine finish. Beyond SPF, it’s all about lip care with a mix of coconut oil, shea butter, and jojoba oil to soften and smooth, plus vitamin E and bisabolol for antioxidant and soothing support. There’s even a peptide (palmitoyl tripeptide-38) in the mix to nourish lips further.

Kinonen before applying the Supergoop Glow Gloss SPF 40 Lip Balm

Sarah Kinonen

Kinonen after applying the Supergoop Glow Gloss SPF 40 Lip Balm

Sarah Kinonen

Tester feedback from Kinonen

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“I’ve tried a lot of lip products with SPF, and while I absolutely love the concept, many (if not most) of them left a lot to be desired. Textures were goopy and chunky, flavors were chemical-y, and the pigment just wasn’t there. But then I tried the Supergoop Glow Gloss SPF—and it changed my mind about sunscreen-spiked lip products of the past. This balm is shiny (not sticky), comes in a lot of pretty shades (my favorite is Pink Peppermint), and is long-lasting—even when sweating in the Brooklyn heat. I wore it for a recent tennis lesson (why didn’t anyone tell me tennis was so fun?!), and it stayed put throughout the hour-long class and during my many, many water breaks.” —Sarah Kinonen, beauty director

More to know

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• Key ingredients: 3% avobenzone, 5% homosalate, 4% octisalate, 4.5% octocrylene, peptides (palmitoyl tripeptide-38), vitamin E, bisabolol, coconut oil, shea butter, jojoba oil
• Shades: 3

Best Balm-Meets-Gloss: Polite Society Polite Pout Glossy Lip Balm

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Polite Society

Polite Pout Glossy Lip Balm

$21

Ulta Beauty

Shipin applying the Polite Society Polite Pout Glossy Lip Balm in French Caramel

Shanna Shipin

Why it's worth it: Sure, a viral product might grab our attention, but it takes a lot more to keep us hooked. At first swipe, Polite Society’s Polite Pout Glossy Lip Balm delivers that juicy, high-shine finish you want from a gloss, but the real draw is how comfortable and non-sticky it feels. Credit a nourishing blend of sunflower, jojoba, hazelnut, and soybean oils, which soften and condition lips, plus vitamin E for antioxidant support. The shades (and flavors) make it even more fun to swipe on—whether you go for French Caramel, Bumbleberry, Cinnamon Churro, Jelly Bean, or Peach Bellini (which has a hint of shimmer), there’s really no wrong choice.

Shipin before applying the Polite Society Polite Pout Glossy Lip Balm

Shanna Shipin

Shipin after applying the Polite Society Polite Pout Glossy Lip Balm in French Caramel

Shanna Shipin

Tester feedback from Shipin

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“I am addicted to these Polite Society lip balms! Every single flavor has been so deliciously fragrant and fun (where else can you find a purple “Bumbleberry” lip balm?!). The corresponding color is so lovely on the lips and enhances your natural pigment; my ultimate favorite is the French Caramel. This has to be among the most comfortable lip balms I've ever tested—I hardly realize I'm wearing it after applying, even with its higher-than-usual gloss factor. It's such fun, which is so welcome in the category of utilitarian beauty products.” —Shanna Shipin, senior commerce director

More to know

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• Key ingredients: sugar, castor seed oil, jojoba seed oil, beeswax, grapeseed oil
• Shades: 13 (including clear)

Best for Barrier Support: Personal Day Emotional Support Lip Balm

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Personal Day

Emotional Support Lip Balm

$24

Ulta Beauty

$24

Revolve

$24

Personal Day

Allure associate beauty director Sarah Kinonen applying the Personal Day Emotional Support Lip Balm in Original Clear

Sarah Kinonen

Why it’s worth it: Founded by actress Lili Reinhart, Personal Day was born from her own struggles with sensitive skin and her mission to create skin care that’s as gentle as it is effective. Enter the Emotional Support Lip Balm, a.k.a. your lip’s comfort companion. It gives lips that just-right mix of high shine and moisture that actually lasts, thanks to hyaluronic acid (which pulls in hydration like a magnet) and squalane (which locks it in, even if a little bit swipes off with your morning coffee). Aloe vera instantly soothes dryness, while jojoba, camellia, and almond oils keep your lips plush and soft all day.

Kinonen before applying the Personal Day Emotional Support Lip Balm in Original Clear

Sarah Kinonen

Kinonen after applying the Personal Day Emotional Support Lip Balm in Original Clear

Sarah Kinonen

Tester feedback from beauty director Sarah Kinonen

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"In my adult life, there are three beauty items I never leave the house without: hand sanitizer, sunscreen, and lip balm. The latter is a "if-I-forgot-it-my-day-is-ruined" kind of pick because I'm extremely prone to cold sores and have perpetually chapped lips—and if you've experienced either, you know they are both very uncomfortable. The Personal Day Emotional Support Lip Balm doesn't just have a cute name, it works! And it's really long-lasting. One swipe of the goopy-in-the-best-way balm with the curved applicator usually lasts me a few hours (if I don't eat in between). I've already gone through two tubes of this stuff—I love it so much!" —Sarah Kinonen, beauty director

More to know

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• Key ingredients: hyaluronic acid, squalane oil, aloe vera, jojoba seed oil
• Shades: 3 (including clear)

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you “overuse” lip balm?

You can overuse lip balm, “but it’s not necessarily harmful to be ‘addicted’ to moisturizing your lips,” says Dr. Chacon. What can happen, however, is that you become hyper-aware of even the tiniest bit of dryness. “Overuse can make it so that even the slightest hint of dryness is more noticeable,” she explains. That being said, if your lip balm has actives, ”like exfoliating acids or menthol, that can cause irritation if used too often," she says.

Why do lips feel drier after using some lip balms?

If your lips feel drier after applying lip balm, it could be due to the ingredients in the formula. “Certain ingredients can be harsh on delicate lip tissue, causing dryness, flaking, and peeling. Menthol, for example, has a tingly, cooling effect on lips and is often used in lip balms for that very feature. However, in a lot of cases, it’s too strong an ingredient, and in conjunction with sun exposure, menthol can damage the thin tissues of the lips," Dr. Chacon says.

What ingredients should I look for in a hydrating lip balm?

When shopping for a hydrating lip balm, focus on nourishing, emollient ingredients rather than those that create a temporary tingle. “I would avoid menthol, but for hydration, there are a lot of great options. Shea butter and cocoa butter are thick and great ingredients that generally can’t be overused. The same goes for the lighter options like jojoba oil or castor oil—both are ultra-hydrating ingredients that are great for moisturizing lips and beyond," says Dr. Chacon.

Meet the experts

• Anna Chacon, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in Miami
• Mona Gohara, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in Hamden, Connecticut, and associate clinical professor at Yale University
• Sejal Shah, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in New York City

How we test and review products

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

For our list of the best lip balms for dry lips, 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.