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

The best Dyson gifts are basically the Rolls-Royces of hair tools, so if you’re looking to go big for an extra special someone this year (or yourself, no judgment), we couldn’t recommend them more. Designed with cutting-edge technology, intelligent heat control, and innovative attachments, Dyson tools deliver salon-quality results while protecting hair from damage. Plus, Dyson always releases special edition holiday colorways, and this year it’s the beautiful Amber Silk, a rose gold with light pink accents. So, whether your hair-care-obsessed giftee has cute coils that need a little coaxing, frizz-prone strands, or loves a pin-straight look, you’ll find something on their wishlist here. What are you waiting for? Browse our favorite Dyson holiday gift ideas below, and then check out the rest of Allure’s gift guides for even more inspo.

Our Top Dyson Gifts

• Dyson Airwrap Co-anda2x Multi-Styler and Dryer Curly+Coily, $750
• Dyson Supersonic r Hair Dryer, $650
• Dyson Supersonic Nural Hair Dryer, $550
• Dyson Airstrait Straightener, $550
• Dyson Airwrap Origin, $550

Dyson Airwrap Co-anda 2x Multi-Styler and Dryer Curly+Coily

Dyson

Airwrap Co-anda 2x Multi-Styler and Dryer Curly+Coily

$750

Dyson

Allure senior commerce director Shanna Shipin using the Dyson Airwrap Co-anda 2x in Amber Silk

Shanna Shipin

Why we love it: Daft Punk said it best: Harder, better, faster, stronger—and honestly, they could’ve been talking about the Dyson Airwrap Co-anda 2x. If your giftee has curly or coily hair, the latest Airwrap iteration is better suited to their specific hair-styling needs, smoothing frizz and defining texture at the touch of a button. It now connects to the MyDyson app via Bluetooth, allowing them to create a custom profile that tailors heat and airflow to their hair type. The set also comes with six smart attachments that adapt based on their styling preferences—and with double the airflow of the original Airwrap and powerful suction, it stretches and styles curls faster than ever. Trust, it’ll give them a red-carpet-worthy ’do in minutes. Bonus: The tool automatically shuts off when it senses that it's been put down, which is particularly useful if you have longer, thicker hair that needs to be sectioned out.

Allure senior commerce director Shanna Shipin before using the Dyson Airwrap Co-anda 2x

Shanna Shipin

Allure senior commerce director Shanna Shipin after using the Dyson Airwrap Co-anda 2x

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 multistylers, 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

Attachments

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Fast Dryer 2x, Tension Comb 2x, 1.6" Co-anda2x Curling Barrel, Round Volumizing Brush 2x, Anti-Snag Loop Brush 2x, Wave+Curl Diffuser 2x

Dyson Supersonic r Hair Dryer

Dyson

Supersonic r Hair Dryer

$650

Dyson

Allure commerce producer Sarah Hoffmann using the Dyson Supersonic r Hair Dryer

Sarah Hoffmann

Why we love it: Make no mistake: the Dyson Supersonic r is far from your average blow-dryer. It’s petite, extra lightweight (weighing in at just 0.7 pounds), and has a sleek, curved design (that’s where the “r” comes in), making it as functional as it is beautiful. The unique shape helps you reach the tool's controls more easily and generally handle the entire tool with more control, according to Dyson associate design manager Low Chen Nyeow.

What's most impressive? It's the fastest hair dryer in the collection, powered by the Dyson Hyperdymium motor, which delivers a high-pressure airflow. At the same time, negatively charged ions reduce static and frizz, so hair stays smooth and polished. All throughout, there are Dyson smart sensors to monitor and regulate heat so it never crosses the danger zone, keeping your hair smooth, shiny, and safe from scorching. Your blowouts are about to look more fabulous than ever before.

Hoffmann before using the Dyson Supersonic r Hair Dryer

Sarah Hoffmann

Hoffmann after using the Dyson Supersonic r Hair Dryer

Sarah Hoffmann

Tester feedback from commerce producer Sarah Hoffmann

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“It took me about 15 minutes to dry my hair while hovering and diffusing, and I think if I'd been drying it straight or going for a more blowout-y look, it would have been even quicker. I was happy to see that this new dryer came with a diffuser attachment, plus the flyaway-wicking tool and the concentrated tip that made my bangs look exactly how I like them in literally five seconds. My waves came out a little fluffy and less defined than when I air-dry, but that's pretty par for the course for fine hair with a looser curl pattern like mine.”—Sarah Hoffmann, commerce producer

Attachments

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Attachments: Powerful Air Attachment, Flyaway Attachment, Diffuser, Pro Concentrator, Wide Tooth Comb, Presentation case

Dyson Supersonic Nural Hair Dryer

Dyson

Supersonic Nural Hair Dryer

$550

Dyson

Allure contributor Siena Gagliano using the Dyson Supersonic Nural Hair Dryer

Siena Gagliano

Why we love it: The latest upgrade to the original Supersonic, the Dyson Supersonic Nural Hair Dryer combines cutting-edge technology with professional-grade styling. Its Time to Flight sensor, recognized with a 2024 Best of Beauty Breakthrough Award (our highest, most-researched honor), automatically adjusts heat as it nears the scalp, preventing sudden spikes and protecting both hair and skin. The dryer also remembers preferred settings and adapts heat and airflow based on which of the five included attachments—concentrator, diffuser, wide-tooth comb, flyaway hook, or gentle airflow ring—is in use. Something else of note: When set down, it automatically lowers airflow and noise until ready to pick up again. Every detail is designed for safe, salon-quality results at home.

Tester feedback from contributor Siena Gagliano

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"The Nural is Dyson’s latest upgrade to its original Supersonic Hair Dryer, and like all Dyson tools, it’s where technology meets beauty at its best. It’s my top pick simply because I can’t go a wash day without it anymore. It dries my hair in record time, and if I need to pause to re-part or take a break, it instantly detects when I set it down, lowering airflow and noise until I’m ready to pick it up again.”—Siena Gagliano, contributor

Tester feedback from senior beauty editor Jesa Marie Calaor

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“It dried my thick, wavy hair in 4 minutes and 50 seconds, and my hair came out very smooth. It definitely felt cooler when I dried the roots near my neck.”—Jesa Marie Calaor, senior beauty editor

Attachments

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Wave and Curl Diffuser, Gentle Air Attachment, Styling Concentrator, Wide-Tooth Comb, and Flyaway Attachment

Dyson Airstrait Straightener

Dyson

Airstrait Straightener

$550

Dyson

Hoffmann using the Dyson Airstrait

Why we love it: We cringe thinking back to our high school selves frantically running a hot straightener over damp hair and smelling the burnt strands—if only the Dyson Airstrait had existed back then. Unlike traditional straighteners, it skips hot plates entirely, instead using unheated tension bars to hold hair while high-velocity air (up to 285°F) dries and straightens at the same time. Cosmetic chemist Trefor Evans previously told us that at these lower temps, the tool is unlikely to damage even wet hair. And for quick touch-ups on dry hair, there’s a setting that goes up to 320°F, too.

Hoffmann before using the Dyson Airstrait Straightener

Sarah Hoffmann

Hoffmann after using the Dyson Airstrait Straightener

Sarah Hoffmann

Tester feedback from Hoffmann

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“I have type 3 natural curls, and this tool is really easy to use and intuitive. It's really nice not having to hold a brush in one hand and a hair dryer in the other for the 30-plus minutes it takes for my hair to dry. The wide clamp is great for covering large sections of hair all at once, but I definitely needed multiple passes to add shine and smoothness to my curly hair.”—Sarah Hoffmann, commerce producer

Attachments

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Non-Slip Heat Mat

Dyson Airwrap Origin

Dyson

Airwrap Origin

$550

Dyson

Why we love it: The Dyson Airwrap Origin is a streamlined spin on the viral Dyson Airwrap, keeping only the most-used attachments for effortless styling. Inside the kit, you’ll find a 1.6" long barrel for soft curls and waves, an anti-snag loop brush to keep things tangle-free, and a fast dryer for speedier-than-ever drying. Even in this pared-down (and thus slightly more affordable!) version, Dyson’s signature Coanda airflow technology—which curls and styles hair without extreme heat damage—works the same magic so you can achieve a salon-worthy blowout at home without subjecting your hair to damage. It’s sleek, efficient, and surprisingly versatile.

Attachments

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1.6" Airwrap Long Barrel, Anti-Snag Loop Brush, Fast Dryer

Frequently Asked Questions

How we test and review products

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

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

Our staff and testers

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

After all, can we really say a skin-care product is the "best" for people over 50 if the only testers we've solicited opinions from 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.

Collage: Paula Balondo; Source images: Courtesy of brands

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If you’ve been curious about trying retinol but want something a little gentler to start with, the best bakuchiol serums might be your perfect entry point. Bakuchiol has been gaining traction in skin-care circles because it offers many of the same benefits as retinol—think smoother texture, more even skin tone, and softened fine lines—but with a much lower risk of irritation. “Bakuchiol is a gentle, plant-derived alternative to retinol that helps boost cell turnover and support collagen production,” says Nazanin Saedi, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in East Norriton, PA.

Other major perks? Unlike traditional retinoids, “bakuchiol does not increase your skin’s sensitivity to sunlight, so it’s safe and effective to use day or night,” says Dr. Saedi. And while every pregnancy calls for a chat with your dermatologist when you switch up your routine, many experts view bakuchiol as a gentler, better-tolerated alternative to retinol for those who are pregnant or breastfeeding. Ahead, check out the formulas dermatologists and our editors agree are worth the shelf space.

Our Top Bakuchiol Serums

• Best Overall: Isdin Isdinceutics Melatonik Serum, $175
• Best for Sensitive Skin: Medik8 Bakuchiol Peptides Serum, $58
• Best Drugstore: Eau Thermale Avène RetrinAL Advanced Correcting Serum, $78
• Best for Dry Skin: Herbivore Botanicals Bakuchiol Dual Retinol Alternative Serum, $58
• Best for Acne-Prone Skin: Typology Serum Imperfections Bakuchiol 1%, $56
• Best with Retinol: Paula’s Choice Clinical 0.3% Retinol + 2% Bakuchiol Treatment, $60
• Best for Mature Skin: Replenix Retinol+Bakuchiol Concentrated Serum, $93

Frequently Asked Questions

• How does bakuchiol compare to retinol in terms of results?
• Can bakuchiol be layered with acids, vitamin C, or niacinamide?
• Is it okay to use bakuchiol with retinol together?
• Meet the experts
• How we test and review products
• Our staff and testers

Best Overall: Isdin Isdinceutics Melatonik Serum

Isdin

Isdinceutics Melatonik Serum

$175

Amazon

$175

Dermstore

Allure contributing commerce writer Christa Joanna Lee applying the Isdin Isdinceutics Melatonik Serum

Christa Joanna Lee

Why it's worth it: Even though Isdin Isdinceutics Melatonik doesn’t contain retinol (so there’s no increased sun sensitivity to worry about), it’s still a nighttime-only serum. In addition to bakuchiol, the other star ingredient, melatonin, works with your skin’s natural overnight repair cycle, acting as an indirect antioxidant to help reinforce its defenses against free-radical damage while you sleep. “The nighttime delivery enables the serum to sink into the skin and renew while you sleep,” says Corey L. Hartman, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in Birmingham, AL. Plus, there’s vitamin C for added brightening and environmental protection come morning. Between the silky serum-in-oil texture that melts right in, the non-comedogenic formula, and the fact that it skips all the usual retinol drama (read: peeling and purging), this is one bakuchiol serum that earns its luxe price tag.

Tester feedback from contributing commerce writer Christa Joanna Lee

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“While my demo video above shows me applying this serum during the day so you can actually see the texture, remember that it’s technically a nighttime treatment thanks to the melatonin in the formula. It’s slightly thicker than your typical watery serum, so it takes a few extra seconds to fully sink in, but once it does, there’s zero greasy residue—just cushy, nourished skin. Even though fragrance is listed on the ingredient label, I could barely detect any scent, which is a plus for sensitive skin (and noses). After a few uses, my skin looked smoother and more refreshed in the morning.” —Christa Joanna Lee, contributing commerce writer

More to know

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• Key ingredients: bakuchiol (percentage not disclosed), melatonin, vitamin C
• Fragrance-free: no

Best for Sensitive Skin: Medik8 Bakuchiol Peptides Serum

Medik8

Bakuchiol Peptides Serum

$58

Dermstore

$58

Medik8

Former Allure commerce writer Jennifer Hussein applying the Medik8 Bakuchiol Peptides Serum

Jennifer Hussein

Why it's worth it: While you might know Medik8 for its iconic Crystal Retinol, Bakuchiol Peptides is a gentler alternative for those with sensitive skin. The lightweight, oil-based serum features 1.25% bakuchiol—a slightly higher concentration than many formulas—yet it’s surprisingly well-tolerated for irritation-prone skin. That’s thanks to its blend of brightening peptides, soothing Centella asiatica, and omega-rich oils that cushion the formula and help calm redness while boosting firmness and skin elasticity over time. “This face serum has a soothing formula that leaves the skin feeling soft and well-hydrated. And, with consistent use, you may begin to see a renewed, more balanced glow,” says Dr. Saedi.

Tester feedback from former commerce writer Jennifer Hussein

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“Medik8's double-dose of bakuchiol and peptides perks up my ever-so-slightly sagging skin (you may not notice, but I see it) when I need the pick-me-up."Its lightweight, fluid formula dries down fast and leaves my skin feeling velvety smooth and primed for my next skin-care step." —Jennifer Hussein, former commerce writer

More to know

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• Key ingredients: 1.25% bakuchiol, peptides, Centella asiatica, inka omega oil, jojoba seed oil
• Fragrance-free: yes

Best Drugstore: Eau Thermale Avène RetrinAL Advanced Correcting Serum

Eau Thermale Avène

RetrinAL Advanced Correcting Serum

$78

Amazon

$78

Dermstore

Allure commerce editor Sarah Han applying the Avène RetrinAL Advanced Correcting Serum

Sarah Han

Why it's worth it: Most of Avène’s RetrinAL products lean on retinaldehyde (a.k.a. retinal), a vitamin A derivative that works faster than traditional retinol but is still gentler than prescription-strength retinoids. But here’s where our ingredient sleuthing at Allure comes in: despite the name, RetrinAL Advanced Correcting Serum doesn’t contain retinal at all. This version relies on bakuchiol to deliver similar smoothing and line-softening results without the irritation retinal products can trigger. That switch makes the serum an especially great pick for sensitive or reactive skin: “This product is widely available, and Avène is known for its gentleness due to the thermal spring water used in their formulations,” says William Kwan, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in Beverly Hills and Encino, CA. The formula also features hyaluronic acid to ward off dryness, niacinamide to calm and strengthen the skin barrier, and pre-tocopheryl (a stable form of vitamin E) for antioxidant protection—making it a soothing, beginner-friendly way to get retinoid-adjacent benefits.

Tester feedback from commerce editor Sarah Han

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"For the most part, my skin can tolerate retinol, but when the weather changes, my skin occasionally freaks out. When I want to take it easy, I reach for RetrinAL Advanced Correcting Serum as the second-to-last step of my skin-care routine—sometimes I'll go as far as pairing it with another (albeit, simplier) HA serum for extra nourishment. This has a milky-white texture that I can count on to never sting, boost brightness and glow, and smooth texture just as well as other low-concentration retinols." —Sarah Han, commerce editor

More to know

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• Key ingredients: bakuchiol (percentage not disclosed), hyaluronic acid, niacinamide, pre-tocopheryl, thermal spring water
• Fragrance-free: yes

Best for Dry Skin: Herbivore Botanicals Bakuchiol Dual Retinol Alternative Serum

Herbivore Botanicals

Bakuchiol Dual Retinol Alternative Serum

$58 $46 (21% off)

Amazon

$58

Dermstore

Why it's worth it: If you’ve been steering clear of retinol-based products because your skin leans dry or easily tight, Herbivore’s Bakuchiol Serum offers a gentler way to smooth fine lines without sacrificing hydration. Instead of drying actives, the nourishing formula pairs bakuchiol with moisture-binding betaine and glycerin, which help draw water into the skin and keep it comfortably plump throughout the day. A rare addition you won’t spot in many formulas, mastic tree resin—harvested on the remote Greek island of Chios—helps refine skin texture and visibly tighten pores, all without the irritation or peeling you’d expect from traditional retinoids.

Tester feedback from contributing commerce writer Christa Joanna Lee

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“This serum is such an easy addition to any skin-care routine. It layers seamlessly with everything and never causes irritation. Because it skips traditional retinol, the results for fine lines are a bit more subtle, but the plumping and hydration are absolutely legit.” —Christa Joanna Lee, contributing commerce writer

More to know

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• Key ingredients: bakuchiol (percentage undisclosed), mastic tree resin, prince ginseng
• Fragrance-free: yes

Best for Acne-Prone Skin: Typology Serum Imperfections Bakuchiol 1%

Typology

Serum Imperfections Bakuchiol 1%

$56

Typology

Why it's worth it: You usually hear bakuchiol praised for wrinkles and firmness, but it can be just as beneficial for breakout-prone skin. Typology Serum Imperfections 1% Bakuchiol keeps things incredibly simple with just three ingredients—caprylic/capric triglyceride, hazelnut seed oil, and 1% bakuchiol—making it a great fit for anyone who wants targeted treatment without fluff ingredients. “It’s a nice option for oily skin as the formula’s anti-inflammatory properties can help calm acne and blemishes that often occur due to excess sebum. The formula is also non-comedogenic, which is essential for anyone with oily skin,” says Dr. Hartman. Technically more of a dry oil than a traditional serum, it absorbs quickly, helps reduce congestion-causing bacteria, balances sebum, and can even soften post-blemish marks over time.

More to know

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• Key ingredients: 1% bakuchiol, caprylic/capric triglyceride, hazelnut seed oil
• Fragrance-free: yes

Best with Retinol: Paula’s Choice Clinical 0.3% Retinol + 2% Bakuchiol Treatment

Paula's Choice

Clinical 0.3% Retinol + 2% Bakuchiol Treatment

$65

Amazon

$65

Dermstore

$65

Paula's Choice

Why it's worth it: Rather than choosing between retinol or bakuchiol, Paula’s Choice Clinical 0.3% Retinol + 2% Bakuchiol Treatment combines both in one formula for a stronger—but still surprisingly tolerable—approach to visible aging. It also happens to have the highest concentration of bakuchiol (2%) of any product on our list, which is worth noting if you’re looking for maxed-out benefits. Studies suggest that pairing bakuchiol with retinol can enhance efficacy and improve overall tolerability compared with either alone. “It works particularly well on mature skin because the retinol–bakuchiol pairing targets fine lines and wrinkles while boosting collagen for a firmer, smoother appearance,” says Dr. Hartman. This treatment also features ceramides, peptides, licorice root extract, and hyaluronic acid to help hydrate, brighten, and buffer potential irritation.

More to know

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• Key ingredients: 0.3% retinol, 2% bakuchiol, ceramides, peptides, licorice root extract, hyaluronic acid
• Fragrance-free: yes

Best for Mature Skin: Replenix Retinol+Bakuchiol Concentrated Serum

Replenix

Retinol+Bakuchiol Concentrated Serum

$93

Amazon

$93

Dermstore

Why it's worth it: Another retinol-and-bakuchiol combo on our list, Replenix Retinol+Bakuchiol Concentrated Serum is designed to address signs of aging—think fine lines, uneven skin tone, and loss of firmness. “It’s an elegant product with a smooth texture that can work as well as tretinoin,” says Dr. Kwan. What really sets it apart is the backup team of skin-calming ingredients: a blend of green tea polyphenols, black tea extract, and licorice root that helps dial down inflammation and brighten dullness—two things mature skin usually deals with just as much as wrinkles. And because retinol can be drying, there’s glycerin to keep moisture levels up so skin looks smooth, not tight or flaky.

More to know

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• Key ingredients: bakuchiol (percentage not disclosed), caffeine, green tea, black tea, licorice root extract, retinol (percentage not disclosed)
• Fragrance-free: yes

Frequently Asked Questions

How does bakuchiol compare to retinol in terms of results?

Bakuchiol products show a lot of promise, but they’re not as well-proven as retinol. “Since it’s a newer skin-care ingredient, there are only a few small, limited studies on its effectiveness. In these studies, they suggest that it can have similar benefits to retinoids without the irritation. However, retinoids have decades of research to validate their benefits,” says Dr. Kwan. So while bakuchiol may be a natural alternative to retinol and have comparable smoothing, brightening, and collagen-supporting effects, retinol remains the gold standard for long-term data.

Can bakuchiol be layered with acids, vitamin C, or niacinamide?

Bakuchiol is easygoing when it comes to mixing with other ingredients. “It can be layered, and is often combined with other skin-care ingredients like vitamin C, which can make it easier to apply all in one step,” says Dr. Kwan. Unlike retinol, it’s less likely to clash with exfoliating acids or calming ingredients like niacinamide, so that most people can use it alongside their usual routine without irritation. That said, if you’re stacking multiple actives in your beauty products, a quick patch test never hurts.

Is it okay to use bakuchiol with retinol together?

It’s not necessarily redundant to use bakuchiol and retinol together—in fact, some people may benefit from the combo. “I often recommend pairing products that stimulate collagen production together, like retinol/retinoids and peptides or growth factors,” says Dr. Kwan. Bakuchiol won’t “cancel out” retinol’s effects, and in some formulas, it’s included to help buffer irritation while still supporting firmness and cell turnover. That said, if you're already tolerating retinol well, you may not need bakuchiol, but it can be a helpful add-on if you're looking for extra support without increasing strength. Just a quick reminder: if you’re using a retinol and bakuchiol combo at night, don’t skip sunscreen the next morning, as your skin will need the extra protection.

Meet the experts

• Corey L. Hartman, MD, a board-certified dermatologist and founder of Skin Wellness Dermatology based in Birmingham, AL
• William Kwan, MD, a board-certified dermatologist at Golden State Dermatology in Beverly Hills and Encino, CA
• Nazanin Saedi, MD, a board-certified dermatologist at Plymouth Meeting Dermatology, based in East Norriton, PA

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 bakuchiol serums, 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.

Courtesy of @overglowedit, @nailartbyqueenie, @nailsxanalysseSave StorySave this storySave StorySave this story

Soap, milk, clean girl, quiet luxury. After a year full of minimalist nail designs and colors, all signs point to a full pendulum swing: This winter’s nail art trends are loud, proud, bright, shiny, and spotted. You’d be hard-pressed to find a “barely there” in the bunch.

Fall runways featured flashy, reimagined animal prints. It took one innocent selfie from Hailey Bieber—the harbinger of many nail trends—to make polka-dot nails explode in popularity. And suddenly our feeds were filled with edgy, 3D takes on silver molten metal. If you’re ready for your nail art to be less whisper, more shout, these winter nail art trends are a perfect, bold antidote to the neutrals and nudes that dominated much of 2025. Below, experts break down what their clients are asking for and what they expect to see trending this season.

Polka dots

Courtesy of @nailsbyzolaCourtesy of @nail.foolCourtesy of @nailsxanalysseCourtesy of @enamelleCourtesy of @overgloweditCourtesy of @nailsxanalysse

If bare nails are like chamomile tea and sculptural, 3D nails are the quad latte of nail art, polka dots are like a half-caff—a low-commitment pick-me-up. If you’re just coming out of your natural nail daze, a good entry-level design like coquettish dots is the perfect first winter mani.

But just because the design is simple doesn't mean it has to be boring. Try a gradient Ben Day pattern (like the dots you see in comic-book illustrations or a Lichtenstein painting), create a black-and-white French manicure with dots just on the tips, à la Dua Lipa, or paint a Milky Way constellation of alternating sizes across the center. And of course, glazed pink nails with evenly-spaced white spots—like Hailey Bieber or Sabrina Carpenter—are a reliable go-to.

You’ll need a steady hand and the right tools to nail this trend, says Juanita Huber-Millet, founder and creative director of Townhouse salons. Otherwise, the spots will look amorphous, like a middle school art project done freehand. “Our nail artists work with dotting tools to ensure every detail is perfectly placed,” she explains. “It’s that precision and polish that elevate the look from playful to truly fashion-forward.”

A set like DND Dotting Nail Art Tools offers multiple dotting tips so you can create different looks. Use a larger, rounded tip for Minnie Mouse spots (see Sydney Sweeney’s inverted white-and-red polka-dot manicure; OPI Big Apple Red was practically made for this throwback combo) or a teeny pointed tip for delicate French hosiery dots (a sheer black like Cirque Colors NSFW Jelly makes a great base for black dots if you want that cheeky lingerie look). For a brighter vibe, Nails Inc. founder Thea Green recommends tiny green dots over hot pink (Wicked: For Good is in theaters this winter, after all).

Velvet French manicure

Courtesy of @jesamarie_Courtesy of @graciela.nailsCourtesy of @nailartbyqueenie

A classic French is fine and good for the holidays, but with all the emphasis on maximalism this season, it could use a few extra ingredients. A velvet French is like an eggnog, but with a dash of peppermint flavor for intrigue. You still get the sleek silhouette of French tips, but the cool dimension of magnetic polish. “It's fashionable without [being] overpowering,” says Los Angeles-based nail artist Sarah Chue.

You could go the sleek and simple route: a regular white-tipped French with an all-over velvet sheen as the base (INLP in Cashmere is a good neutral, or Born Pretty polish in Jelly Pink if you prefer your French manicure with a pinker base). It’s a versatile look, and any length or shape will work because the finish is what makes the impact.

Or you could mix it up. Get creative with a color—or five!—or pull the cat-eye dimension on just the tips so it’s really only a French manicure at certain angles. “To achieve this, you would use a rectangle magnet,” says Chue. “Hold the magnet upright and start from the cuticle of the nail and gently and slowly drag the magnet down towards the tip of the nail, revealing the French curve.”

Surrealist animal print

Courtesy of @misspopnailsCourtesy of @happyclawsssCourtesy of @naominailsnycCourtesy of @vanityprojects

If Salvador Dalí were alive today and forayed into a side hustle as a nail tech, his clients wouldn’t end up with just a standard leopard print. Purple crocodiles, holographic blue zebras, and butterflies with gold-tipped pink wings—now that’s the stuff of a true surrealist’s dream.

This winter, we’re expecting a zoo’s worth of animal prints in unexpected colors, like the golden zebra stripes New York City-based manicurist Miss Pop painted onto Salon Perfect Magnetic Mirror Effect press-ons for Bronx and Banco at Fashion Week this fall. “I love re-creating the print and taking it to the next dimension by playing with textured, tactile spots or giving the illusion of the way fur glistens in the light,” she says.

More intricate designs are better left to the seasoned pros or press-ons, but crocodile scales are fairly straightforward. Start with a base color of your choice (since we’re dealing with Technicolor wildlife, we recommend Holo Taco nail polish in Peri-Social), then paint on a blooming gel like Gelcare Blooming Gel, which "allows drops of [gel polish color] to move without them connecting,” says New York-based manicurist Elle Gerstein.

Then place drops of your crocodile-scale color (we like Apres Gel Couleur in PB&Jelly) and watch them “bloom.” You may want a nail-dotting tool to guide them into uniform squoval shapes, but keep in mind: “This can only be done with gel and not lacquer,” says Gerstein. A UV light is what will freeze those drops of concentrated color into place.

Marbled

Courtesy of @enamelleCourtesy of @sansungnails

Another handy use for that blooming gel? The marbled stone nails we’re seeing everywhere on our Instagram feeds are thanks to nail artists like Gerstein and Naomi Yasuda.

Choose a base color, then two or three complementary colors to swirl on top of a coat of blooming gel. For a subtler set, start with a sheer neutral like Nails Inc. 1-Step Nail Polish in It’s Topless Renee, top with blooming gel, and use a dotting tool to swirl on shades of espresso and chestnut (try Essie Fringes & Saddle or Save a Cowboy) alongside a white like Static Nails Liquid Glass Lacquer in Elixir to give it that cracked-stone dimension.

If realistic marble sounds too buttoned-up for your taste, reach for varying shades of wintery blues or even swirls of hot pink and orange. The key pieces are: blooming gel to keep those colors separated and lines of white to help create realistic variation in the “stone.”

Chunky knit

Courtesy of @iris.nailed.itCourtesy of @baynailedit

The weather outside is frightful, and what better way to stave off the cold than an homage to your coziest sweater? Whether you prefer a hardy New England fisherman knit, delicate embroidery on cashmere, or classic Fair Isle patterns, a sprinkling of acrylic powder is just as good as a pair of knitting needles.

Gerstein especially loves the combo of glossy and matte to emphasize texture. “It creates the fun fabric look that we’re seeing on the runways and gives your polish some versatility,” she says.

Start with a glossy gel base and cure it with a UV light. Then use the same color to paint on your knitted design. Sprinkle a clear acrylic powder on top, cure again, and brush the excess powder away. You’ll be left with a monochromatic knit effect that rivals your favorite cardigan.

Meet the experts

• Elle Gerstein is a New York City-based nail artist.
• Thea Green is the founder of the London-based brand Nails Inc.
• Juanita Huber-Millet is the founder and creative director of Townhouse salons across the UK, and in New York City and Los Angeles.
• Miss Pop is a New York City-based nail artist.

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

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

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

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

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

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

Watch Biles's full video below:

TikTok content

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Courtesy of @sabletoothtigerCourtesy of @heygreatnailsThe modern velvet manicure

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

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

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

How to create velvet nails

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

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

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

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

Velvet Nails Inspiration

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

Collage: Briana Rengifo; Source Images: Getty ImagesSave StorySave this storySave StorySave this story

There are a million and one things happening on the internet right now that would make anyone want to throw their phone off a bridge. One of the things that’s been doing it for me lately is the “new face” discourse that’s dominated the online celebrity rumor mill for the better part of 2025. If a famous person shows up anywhere looking a little different than the last time they were seen, my social media feeds flood with videos and comments declaring they must’ve undergone several plastic surgeries because they’ve been suddenly rendered “unrecognizable.”

The celebrities this phrase is thrown at are usually women who, sure, might have changed a little over the years but still largely look like themselves. Claiming that they’ve undergone surgical “transformations,” as they’re often called, is in itself a big reach with no evidence behind it, for one. But the fact that we’re so quick to use a term as extreme as “new face” to describe anyone whose look seems to have changed for reasons we can’t know is a sign of something more concerning: that we’ve become willing to disconnect ourselves from reality to justify our continued shaming of women’s appearances. Let’s look at a few examples.

Anne Hathaway was declared to have a “new face” after sitting front row at a Ralph Lauren show in April and then again after her Met Gala appearance in May. Netizens, professional content creators, and even doctors raced to make claims of a brow lift, facelift, and/or blepharoplasty without accounting for the tight-as-a-drum ponytail she wore to both events. Jennifer Lawrence has also been a recent target of “new face” discourse. Even though she’s only 35, she’s been similarly accused of rendering herself unrecognizable with various age-reversing cosmetic procedures (all of which she’s denied having done, save for Botox). Then there’s the one I really don’t get: Emma Stone. People online called her appearance at the Eddington premiere in June her “new face reveal,” and the blepharoplasty/facelift rumors have been rampant ever since (like Lawrence, she’s only 35).

Jennifer Lawrence at a red carpet premiere in October.

Photo: Getty Images

I could spend the rest of this story talking circles around the exact changes people have perceived in these women’s faces, but it would ultimately be beside the point. Because no matter how you slice and dice the speculation, going so far as to say that any of them have a “new face” is a wild exaggeration.

Hathaway, when she lets down those snatched updos, still has smile lines and a wrinkle here and there, and her eyelids appear slightly hooded rather than pulled back—like those of a typical (albeit very beautiful) 42-year-old. Lawrence’s eyes are as deep-set as ever, and her face has kept its rounded shape with full cheeks. Stone has certainly changed her eyebrow shape and, obviously, cut her hair short, but when I see her in motion in recent interviews (like this one with the BBC), I don’t see the drastic cosmetic transformation everyone else apparently does. When she laughs, her rounded cheeks push up toward her eyes, and her eyelids disappear into their natural hoods. Her forehead scrunches and relaxes when she inevitably makes a funny face or two. It doesn’t feel all that different from watching Easy A.

Are we not willing to accept that people’s faces are bound to change a little as they get older? Warranted, there are celebrities out there who do undergo drastic plastic surgery transformations that can be worth talking about in the right context. Kris Jenner did get what I think is fair to call a “new face;” hell, I mistook her for Kim Kardashian the first time I saw her post-facelift earlier this year. But making that leap for anyone whose face seems to have changed in tiny ways over a long period of time? It doesn’t account for the happenings of real life, like getting older. Or getting pregnant (Lawrence had a baby earlier this year, by the way). Or weight fluctuation, or medical conditions. It doesn’t even account for the simplest of factors, like using different makeup and hairstyling techniques. (Mara Roszak, hairstylist to actresses like Zoe Saldana, Stone, and Olivia Wilde, told Allure recently that for a “snatched” effect, she sometimes makes tiny hidden braids behind a client’s ears, pulls them up and back, and secures them behind the head.) Most of this “new face” discourse is simply not tethered to reality.

Hathaway at the Met Gala in May.

Photo: Getty Images

Hathaway at a WWD event in October.

Photo: Getty Images

It’s also a thinly veiled weapon of misogyny. Some women are praised for their so-called transformations, while others are shamed for doing too much for their faces. “I’ll have what she’s having” was a common sentiment when Hathaway went viral, but recent images of Stone posted by Roszak have drawn comments like “lol she doesn’t look like her anymore,” and “BRING BACK her unique face.” Either way, these women are held to narrow—and contradictory—parameters of what they ought to look like and what’s acceptable to do to your own face. It scares me to think that, if I were in their position at my current age of 31, I could just as easily be put on blast for having changed entirely simply because I tried something new with my look, went through something difficult that altered my appearance, or simply aged just enough for someone to notice (all of which I have done recently).

It all speaks to a deep fear of the changes that come with getting older, including aging. All three of the women I’ve discussed in this story have been in the public eye for at least a decade, and they all became household names by the time they hit their early 20s. It would be delusional to think that none of their faces would change through their Hollywood tenure, and yet the internet acts as if their respective, gradual aesthetic evolutions are shocking. Regardless of whether plastic surgery played a role in those evolutions, the change itself and the passage of time are what I think make people uncomfortable. These generational icons are not the same bright-eyed 20-somethings they were at the start of their careers, and it’s far easier to judge them for changing than it is for us to reckon with our fear that our faces are going to change eventually, too. So it doesn’t take a psych degree to understand that a lot of this commentary is pure projection.

Emma Stone en route to an appearance in October.

Photo: Getty Images

There’s definitely value in being aware of plastic surgery and how celebrities can use it to align with (and, in turn, reinforce) beauty standards—but the language we use when talking about that is important. Anyone who’s made content on social media, whether personally or professionally, knows the power of a catchy hook. Be honest, what’s more likely to get your attention? “Jennifer Lawrence has an entirely new face, and here’s how she got it.” Or: “Jennifer Lawrence’s face looks a little bit different but not that much, and it’s probably just because it’s evolving gradually with the passage of time.” Even I, with all my lecturing, would probably stick around to watch the former.

On social media, it feels normal for us to use and hear language designed to elicit a strong feeling that makes people want to stop, watch, judge, and react. It’s how we’ve been conditioned to operate on the internet since short-form video became a thing and impeded our ability to pay attention to anything for more than a few seconds at a time. But if we’re not stopping to think critically about what we’re hearing and seeing on the little dopamine machines we call phones, that junk winds up impacting our beliefs and perceptions in real life, too (I mean, just look at incel culture if you think I’m wrong).

And that makes us all a bunch of assholes. Because labeling such small changes a “new face”—especially on social media—rarely serves to challenge beauty standards the way people seem to think it does. It’s purely for our entertainment, with a “gotcha” kicker. And women, as usual, are the ones on full display while the rest of us get to watch the show… at least for a few moments before we scroll on to the next thing.

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The best skin-care gift sets aren’t just for checking off a loved one’s birthday or holiday gift list—value sets are also the perfect excuse to treat yourself and discover new favorites without splurging on full sizes. Each curated kit is packed with mini versions of fan favorites, so you can find what really works before committing. Plus, their travel-size packaging makes them perfect for tossing into your gym bag, carry-on, or overnight tote for easy, on-the-go routines. Whether you’re new to a brand or just want to streamline your regimen, the best skin-care gift sets make healthier-looking skin feel effortless.

Ahead, we’ve rounded up the most giftable, travel-ready, and editor-approved options that make glowing skin one less thing to stress about.

Our Top Skin-Care Gift Sets to Shop Now

Rice to Meet YouTatcha The Starter Ritual SetJump to review$74

Amazon

Take That Glow to GoLaneige Mini Hydration To Go Gift SetJump to review$32

Amazon

Plumping PinnacleSkinCeuticals Injectables Power PairJump to review$238

SkinCeuticals

Our Top Skin-Care Gift Sets

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• Meet the experts
• How we test and review products
• Our staff and testers

Rice to Meet You: Tatcha The Starter Ritual Set

Tatcha

The Starter Ritual Set

$74

Amazon

$74

Tatcha

Allure contributing commerce writer Christa Joanna Lee using the Tatcha Rice Wash

Christa Joanna Lee

Why it's worth it: When we think of Tatcha, the first word that often comes to mind is “luxe,” and they’ll quickly see why with The Starter Ritual Set. Inspired by centuries-old geisha rituals and traditional Japanese beauty practices, this four-step lineup is ideal for anyone with dry or mature skin looking to restore a healthy, lit-from-within glow. It includes The Rice Wash to purify (“the creamy texture feels incredibly luxurious as it smooths and brightens the skin,” Kristina Collins, MD, a double board-certified dermatologist based in Austin, previously told Allure), The Essence to plump, The Dewy Serum to treat, and The Dewy Skin Cream to nourish. Featuring ingredients like double-fermented rice, antioxidant-rich green tea, and hydrating algae, this routine leaves skin soft, radiant, and deeply hydrated. From its silky textures to its serene lavender packaging, every detail will remind them to slow down and enjoy a moment of self-care.

Tester feedback on Tatcha’s The Rice Wash from contributing commerce writer Christa Joanna Lee

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“This is one of those cleansers that actually makes you look forward to washing your face. When you first start lathering it up, there’s a teeny bit of grittiness from the rice powder doing its gentle exfoliating thing—but then it instantly melts into the softest, creamiest foam. That said, it didn’t really budge my waterproof eyeliner (I don’t blame it; I wear MAC Liquidlast and it’s truly bulletproof), so I wouldn’t rely on it for full makeup removal. But it’s incredible as a second step to a double-cleanse or a no-makeup day.” —Christa Joanna Lee, contributing commerce writer

More to know

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• What it includes: The Rice Wash (1.7 fl. oz.), The Essence (0.8 fl. oz.), The Dewy Serum (0.35 fl. oz.), The Dewy Skin Cream (0.5 fl. oz.)
• Key ingredients: double-fermented rice, green tea, algae
• Who it’s for: people with dry or mature skin

Take That Glow to Go: Laneige Mini Hydration To Go Gift Set

Laneige

Mini Hydration To Go Gift Set

$32

Amazon

$32

Sephora

Allure former shopping editor Angela Trakoshis applying the Laneige Lip Sleeping Mask

Angela Trakoshis

Why it's worth it: We probably don’t need to say much more than that this limited-edition kit includes Laneige’s viral Lip Sleeping Mask, but we’ll indulge you. Laneige has built its reputation on high-performing, hydration-obsessed formulas that feel expensive but aren’t. The Mini Hydration To Go Gift Set rounds up the brand’s bestsellers: Water Bank Gentle Gel Cleanser to purify, Cream Skin Toner & Moisturizer to soften and balance, Water Bank Blue Hyaluronic Cream Moisturizer to deeply hydrate, and of course, that iconic Lip Sleeping Mask to smooth and plump overnight. Together, they deliver dewy, bouncy, perfectly moisturized skin (and lips) anytime, anywhere. Bonus: It all comes tucked inside a cute, travel-ready bag.

Tester feedback on Laneige’s Lip Sleeping Mask from former shopping market editor Angela Trakoshis

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“I mean, this is the OG when it comes to lip masks. There's a reason it's a top-seller on Amazon. It moisturizes lips for hours on end—no reapplication needed. I apply the smallest amount of this stuff on my dry lips at night and am guaranteed to wake up with soft, hydrated lips in the morning.” —Angela Trakoshis, former shopping market editor

More to know

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• What it includes: Water Bank Gentle Gel Cleanser (2.7 fl. oz.), Cream Skin Toner and Moisturizer (1.7 fl. oz.), Water Bank Blue Hyaluronic Cream Moisturizer (0.33 fl. oz.), Lip Sleeping Mask in Berry (0.1 fl. oz.), cosmetic bag
• Key ingredients: hyaluronic acid, ceramides, peptides, white leaf tea water
• Who it’s for: everyone, especially if you have dull or dry skin or loss of elasticity

Plumping Pinnacle: SkinCeuticals Injectables Power Pair

SkinCeuticals

Injectables Power Pair

$238

SkinCeuticals

$238

Dermstore

Why it's worth it: Between the Best of Beauty-winning HA Intensifier Multi-Glycan and equally beloved P-Tiox, we couldn't possibly choose our favorite—even amongst the entire SkinCeuticals family, these two are editor faves. Both formulas are stars at boosting hydration levels and plumping skin, visibly minimizing the look of fine lines with continuous use—so they're great for anyone who wants to target volume loss, dullness, and/or wrinkles, as well as those who regularly go to in-office treatments as at-home maintenance. The best part about this giftable duo? You save $32 versus if you bought these two serums separately. Cha-ching.

Tester feedback on SkinCeuticals P-Tiox from contributing commerce editor Deanna Pai

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"A plastic surgeon once told me that I have a very expressive face—which was a nice way of saying my face is a hotbed for expression lines. That's where this stuff comes in handy. The lightweight serum uses peptides to inhibit signals to the facial muscles, kind of like neuromodulators, but on a much weaker scale. Still, I've found that it works wonders for all the little expression lines where injectables just can't help, like around my mouth." —Deanna Pai, contributing commerce editor

More to know

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• What it includes: P-Tiox (1 fl oz.), HA Intensifier Multi-Glycan (1 fl oz.)
• Key ingredients: hyaluronic acid, peptides, niacinamide, PHA, glycerin, soybean ferment extract

Glow All Over: Osea Juicy Duo Gift Set

Osea

Juicy Duo Gift Set

$32

Amazon

$32

Revolve

$32

Osea

Allure senior commerce director Shanna Shipin applying Osea Hyaluronic Lip Booster

Shanna Shipin

Why it's worth it: We're constantly singing Osea's praises, and what better time to experience its skin-care goodness, or gift said goodness, than the holiday season? Not only do its citrus-leaning body-care products boost your mood with every application, but the ingredients inside the Undaria Algae Body Oil all but guarantee silky-smooth, moisturized, and glazed skin. It doesn't feel heavy, either, despite being an oil. The Hyaluronic Lip Booster is prime lip care for the drier, colder months ahead, and the plush doe-foot applicator is perfect for a one-swipe-and-go situation.

Tester feedback on Osea Hyaluronic Lip Booster by Allure senior commerce director Shanna Shipin

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

More to know

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• What it includes: Hyaluronic Lip Oil Booster (0.41 fl. oz.), Undaria Algae Body Oil (1 fl. oz.)
• Key ingredients: hyaluronic acid, undaria seaweed, sea fern, caster seed oil, meadowfoam seed oil

Bum, Bum, and Beyond: Sol de Janeiro Jet Set Kit in Cheirosa '62

Sol De Janerio

Jet Set in Cheirosa '62

$34

Amazon

$34

Ulta Beauty

$34

Sephora

Why it's worth it: We’re not saying you should pick your beauty gifts based solely on how amazing they smell, but if you do, we get it. The Sol de Janeiro Jet Set includes three Best of Beauty Award-winning icons: the Brazilian 4 Play Body Wash, a cream-gel formula infused with coconut and açaí oils to tackle dryness before you even towel off; the Brazilian Bum Bum Cream, loaded with fast-absorbing cupuaçu butter, energizing caffeine, and antioxidant-rich Brazil nut and açaí oils for an all-over glow; and the Cheirosa ’62 Perfume Mist, a warm, addictive scent that—according to associate beauty editor Annie Blay-Tette—has “a 100% success rate in getting compliments.”

More to know

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• What it includes: Brazilian 4 Play Body Wash (3 fl. oz.), Brazilian Bum Bum Cream (1.7 fl. oz.), Cheirosa ‘62 Perfume Mist (1.1 fl. oz.)
• Key ingredients: caffeine, Brazil nut, cupuaçu butter, açaí oil
• Who it’s for: people with dry skin

Glass Act: Medicube Glass Skin Collagen Trial Kit

Medicube

Glass Skin Collagen Trial Kit

$15

Amazon

Allure features director Dianna Mazzone Singh removing the Medicube Collagen Night Wrapping Mask

Dianna Mazzone Singh

Why it's worth it: Ask anyone at the Allure office what their favorite Medicube product is and you’ll get a different answer every time—and that’s because the brand is stacked with derm-loved formulas at affordable price points. But if they’re new to the K-beauty brand, the Medicube Glass Skin Collagen Trial Kit is a great intro, featuring four hydrating and firming essentials: Collagen Toner, Collagen Serum, Collagen Cream, and a Collagen Wrapping Mask. And while, as dermatologist Dr. Dendy Engelman previously told Allure, topical collagen itself can’t penetrate deeply enough to boost collagen production, Medicube’s formulas don’t stop there—they’re joined by ingredients like glycerin and hyaluronic acid that help support elasticity, smooth fine lines, and give skin that plump, dewy, glass skin glow.

Tester feedback on Medicube’s Collagen Night Wrapping Mask from features director Dianna Singh

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"The way my skin looks with a layer of Medicube Collagen Night Wrapping Mask is exactly how I want my skin to look without it: glassy, glowy, and clear. And with each overnight—yes, overnight—application of its niacinamide- and hyaluronic acid-infused formula, I get a little bit closer to that goal. I've been using it once or twice a week and never cease to be delighted by the satisfaction of peeling it away in the morning." —Dianna Singh, features director

More to know

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• What it includes: Collagen Toner (0.42 fl. oz.), Collagen Serum (0.42 fl. oz.), Collagen Cream (0.17 fl. oz.), Collagen Wrapping Mask (0.17 fl. oz.)
• Key ingredients: collagen extract, niacinamide, glycerin, hyaluronic acid
• Who it’s for: people with mature skin

The Rhode to Glazed Skin: The Rhode Kit

Rhode

The Rhode Kit

$117

Rhode

Why it's worth it: It’s hard to believe the skin-care brand started by Hailey Bieber launched just three years ago. If you’re after an uncomplicated, glow-boosting routine—or trying to impress the teen in your life—The Rhode Kit is the perfect starter kit. It includes four full-size essentials designed for all skin types, especially dry, dull, or dehydrated complexions: Pineapple Refresh cleanser, Glazing Milk essence, and two of the brand’s OG icons, the Peptide Glazing Fluid and Barrier Restore Cream. The lineup blends hydrating ingredients like peptides, ceramides, and hyaluronic acid with soothing antioxidants to help strengthen the skin barrier, smooth texture, and deliver that signature “glazed donut” finish that the founder made famous, all in a few simple steps.

More to know

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• What it includes: Pineapple Refresh (5 fl. oz.), Glazing Milk (4.2 fl. oz.), Peptide Glazing Fluid (1.7 fl. oz.), and Barrier Restore Cream (1.7 fl. oz.)
• Key ingredients: peptides, ceramides, hyaluronic acid
• Who it’s for: everyone

Sleeping Beauty: Sunday Riley Go to Bed With Me

Sunday Riley

Go to Bed With Me

$93

Nordstrom

$93

Dermstore

$93

Ulta Beauty

Lee applying the Good Genes All-in-One Lactic Acid Treatment

Christa Joanna Lee

Why it's worth it: Not much has changed since we learned that everyone is obsessed with Sunday Riley a few years ago. Rather than flooding the market with dozens of so-so formulas every other month, the brand keeps things tight—fewer products, stronger efficacy—which is why just about every launch becomes an instant hit. The Go to Bed With Me Complete Evening Routine Set includes seven of Sunday Riley’s hero products for a complete nighttime ritual (read: retinol). They’ll find icons like Good Genes Lactic Acid Treatment for glowing, smoother skin and Luna Sleeping Night Oil, packed with retinol and blue tansy to refine texture and treat dark spots overnight. With hydrating, barrier-strengthening picks like Ice Ceramide Moisturizing Cream and Ceramic Slip Cleanser, this set is for anyone chasing brighter, more even, and healthier-looking skin.

Tester feedback on Sunday Riley’s Good Genes All-in-One Lactic Acid Treatment from Lee

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“I have pretty sensitive skin, and this lactic acid treatment is one of the few exfoliants that never freaks it out—it’s so gentle. No peeling, no flaking, no scary ‘purge’ phase; just smoother, glowier skin that actually feels hydrated after. If I could only choose one product to have an endless stock of, it would be this.” —Lee, contributing commerce writer

More to know

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• What it includes: Pink Drink Firming Resurfacing Essence (0.3 fl. oz.), Ice Ceramide Moisturizing Cream (0.5 fl. oz.), Ceramic Slip Cleanser (1 fl. oz.), Good Genes All-in-One Lactic Acid Treatment (0.5 fl. oz.), A+ High-Dose Retinoid Serum (0.5 fl. oz.), Luna Sleeping Night Oil (0.34 fl. oz.), 5 Stars Eye Serum (0.27 fl. oz.)
• Key ingredients: peptides, ceramides, lactic acid, retinol
• Who it’s for: people with mature skin

Thrice as Nice: SkinFix Acne+ Triple Threat Set

SkinFix

Acne+ Triple Threat Set

$30

Sephora

$30

Kohl's

Pai applying SkinFix Barrier+ Restoring Gel Cream

Deanna Pai

Why it's worth it: Some brands chase trends, but SkinFix focuses on creating solutions for what skin actually needs. And if one of those needs is fighting acne, the Acne+ Triple Threat Set has them covered. This three-step routine includes a 2% BHA Cleanser to unclog pores and smooth texture, an Adapinoid Gel (a retinoid-like treatment) to target blemishes and support cell turnover, and a Skin Barrier Restoring Gel Cream to calm and hydrate without clogging pores. Together, they tackle breakouts, blackheads, and post-acne marks while helping maintain a healthy barrier. It’s ideal for people with oily, acne-prone, or combination skin that needs results and a little TLC.

Tester feedback on SkinFix’s Barrier+ Restoring Gel Cream from Pai

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"I've never had a pregnancy glow—just a whole lot of hormonal acne on top of my usual day-to-day breakouts. And this time, it hit just as the weather was getting chilly, which means that I need to balance coddling dry areas, like my cheeks, and addressing trouble spots on my chin and jawline. This stuff has yet to steer me wrong. Unlike a lot of other lightweight moisturizers, it's cushiony and leaves my skin soft, but not shiny. And it's more gel than cream, which gives it an especially nourishing feel." —Deanna Pai, contributing commerce editor

More to know

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• What it includes: 2% BHA Cleanser (1 fl. oz.), Adapinoid Gel (0.23 fl. oz.), Skin Barrier Restoring Gel Cream (0.5 fl. oz.)
• Key ingredients: salicylic acid,
• Who it’s for: people with acne-prone or oily skin

Why You So Obsessed With Me?: e.l.f. Cosmetics Best & Obsessed Skincare Kit

E.L.F. Cosmetics

Best & Obsessed Skincare Kit

$25

Amazon

$25

Walmart

Allure commerce editor Sarah Han applying e.l.f. Holy Hydration! Thirst Burst Drops

Why it's worth it: In recent years, e.l.f. has gone full-on viral again thanks to formulas that perform like luxury but cost less than your latte. You can’t scroll BeautyTok for more than five seconds without spotting someone slathering, tapping, or glazing on something from the Best & Obsessed Skincare Kit. It features five fan-favorite essentials that blend skin care and glow-inducing makeup: Makeup Melting Cleansing Balm, Bronzing Drops, Thirst Burst Drops, Vitamin C + E + Ferulic Acid Serum, and Suntouchable Whoa Glow SPF 30 (a tinted chemical sunscreen). For skin that’s dull, dry, or uneven, this lineup delivers everything they need to cleanse, brighten, hydrate, and protect. It won’t take long to see why everyone is—yep—completely obsessed.

Tester feedback of e.l.f.’s Holy Hydration! Thirst Burst Drops from commerce editor Sarah Han

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"Whenever I don’t get enough sleep (or even when I do, honestly), a brightening face serum is a must in my morning routine. Thirst Burst Drops offers the best of both worlds, packing in both hydrating and brightening ingredients that perk up my skin straight away. The gel texture melts right into my skin and provides a bit of tackiness (not stickiness) that really grips onto my sunscreen and makeup. Glowy, radiant base? Check, check." —Sarah Han, commerce editor

More to know

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• What it includes: Makeup Melting Cleansing Balm (0.45 fl. oz.), Bronzing Drops (0.33 fl. oz.), Thirst Burst Drops (0.33 fl. oz.), Vitamin C + E + Ferulic Acid Serum (0.5 fl. oz.), Suntouchable Whoa Glow SPF 30 (0.33 fl. oz.)
• Key ingredients: vitamin C, hibiscus complex, sunflower seed oil, hyaluronic acid, squalane
• Who it’s for: everyone, especially those with dry skin

Eau So Hydrated: La Roche-Posay Facial Hydration Heroes

La Roche-Posay

Facial Hydration Heroes

$50

Amazon

Why it's worth it: It all started in a tiny French town called La Roche-Posay, where a mineral-rich thermal spring earned a reputation for calming even the most sensitive skin (long before “skin barrier” was a buzzword). That same water is still at the core of all their products today. Their Facial Hydration Heroes Kit includes the Toleriane Hydrating Gentle Cleanser, a milky face wash that cleanses while supporting sensitive skin. Plus, you’ll find the Hyalu B5 Serum—powered by two kinds of pure hyaluronic acid, vitamin B5, and madecassoside to plump and repair. And to complete the minimalist routine, there’s the Toleriane Double Repair Face Moisturizer, which is rich in ceramides and niacinamide to strengthen, hydrate, and soothe fragile skin.

More to know

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• What it includes: Toleriane Hydrating Gentle Cleanser (1.69 fl. oz.), Hyalu B5 Serum (1 fl. oz.), Toleriane Double Repair Face Moisturizer (1.35 fl. oz.)
• Key ingredients:
• Who it’s for: everyone, especially those with sensitive skin

Frequently Asked Questions

Meet the experts

• Kristina Collins, MD, a double board-certified dermatologist based in Austin
• Dendy Engleman, MD, is a board-certified dermatologist based in New York City

How we test and review products

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

For our list of the best skin-care gift sets, 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.