A new season calls for a new beauty routine *and* an epic sale. That said, I hope you're ready to shop and save on some of the most coveted products because the Dermstore Beauty Refresh Sale has officially arrived, and it is your best (and maybe only) chance to buy buzzy beauty products for a steal before spring. 

Just hear me out: Not only can you save up to 20 percent on almost everything with coupon code REFRESH (including a ton of cult-favorite and editor-approved brands, from Augustinus Bader to Sunday Riley and RevitaLash), but since the sale is running from March 3 through March 12, you have plenty of time to complete a shopping spree (or two) before it's too late.

If you're anything like me, though, you won't want to wait to start restocking your vanity. You'll find some of the best scores on Augustinus Bader's The Rich Cream (from $99; $79), T3 Aire IQ intelligent hair dryer ($399; $319) and the Sunday Riley Good Genes treatment (from $85; $68), so you should start adding those to your cart, stat. I can keep going, but since this Dermstore sale isn't going to last forever, you'd better get going to secure the 18 best spring beauty deals below.

Want to know which buzzy products are *really* worth buying? Sign up for our shopping newsletter to uncover our favorite finds.

1. Augustinus Bader The Rich Cream

Dermstore

There's a reason why celebs and PureWow editors alike are obsessed with Augustinus Bader's The Rich Cream, and it all has to do with its nourishing formula that tackles fine lines and blemishes like a pro. Since it is pricey (and doesn't often go on sale), it wouldn't be a bad idea to grab a bottle or two of this editor-tested moisturizer that even I can attest makes my skin glow from the inside out (for real, my family constantly tells me that my skin looks like glass). The product uses groundbreaking stem cell technology, along with a proprietary blend of vitamins and amino acids, to support skin regeneration, per the brand. It's also chock-full of other skin-loving ingredients, including hyaluronic acid, which helps to provide plumping hydration. Trust, you won't regret it.

2. Sunday Riley C.E.O. Glow Face Oil

Dermstore

A former PureWow editor credited this serum for brightening her skin and minimizing her dark spots in a flash—just read her full review. The benefits come courtesy of a high dose of vitamin C, golden turmeric and evening primrose oil. Not to mention, she said, when you use this product in the morning, it leaves you with a glowing base to start your makeup. "You can also use this at night as well as before you head to bed," she added, to wake up with brighter skin.

3. RevitaLash Advanced Eyelash Conditioner

Dermstore

Meghan Markle swears by this lash serum, and so do our editors. It's formulated with peptides, biotin, lipids and green tea extracts, which purportedly work together to condition, strengthen and protect your lashes so they stay on fleek. The formula is also meant to improve the flexibility and shine of your natural strands, so you can say bye-bye to falsies and hello to longer, thicker lashes. One tube can also last up to six months, depending on the size, so choose wisely—but choose fast. After all, the Duchess of Sussex herself might be stocking up as we speak.

4. Allies of Skin Multi Peptides and Growth Factor Serum

Dermstore

Peptides and growth factors are being hailed as the next frontier of anti-aging skincare, and this in-demand serum contains both. It's formulated to lift and repair skin, supporting the skin barrier while improving firmness and elasticity. Per the brand's studies, 97 percent of users experienced a visible reduction in eye area wrinkles, and 96 percent said their forehead wrinkles appeared smoother after just eight weeks of use. No wonder this stuff is flying off the shelves. (Psst: At 20 percent off, you might want to grab the bigger bottle).

5. Kai Eau de Parfum

Dermstore

Looking for a new spring scent? Buyers say this long-lasting floral fragrance (with notes of gardenia and white florals) is fresh and lightweight enough to use on the daily. The bottle is also as chic and sleek as can be, so you'll love showing it off on your vanity table. But is it worth the splurge? I certainly think so, especially since it's formulated with vitamins E and C, so it'll nourish your skin while keeping you smelling good all day long. 

6. Act+Acre Stem Cell Scalp Serum

Dermstore

Scalpcare is skincare, so don't forget to pay attention to yours. If you experience irritation, thinning hair or increased shedding, this cold-processed scalp serum is for you. It features hyaluronic acid to hydrate and soothe your scalp, as well as apple stem cells to promote regeneration and hair growth. More than 100 5-star reviewers attest to the results, including this buyer, who writes, "I was surprised to see that my hair thickened significantly with regular use of the product. Areas of my hairline, which I didn’t even realize were bald, grew hair." As a plus, many say that it also leaves hair shinier and softer.

7. Sunday Riley Good Genes Treatment

Dermstore

I'd never leave out this oldie but goodie, the Sunday Riley Good Genes lactic acid treatment that several editors are obsessed with. But I'll let PureWow SEO Editor Marissa Wu tell you all about it. "I didn’t see an immediate response the first day, but five days later, most definitely do," she raved in her review. "Pigmentation and bumps from old scars have definitely cleared up and shown good improvement. Pores on my nose and between my eyebrows have also reduced in appearance and remained clear." Just so you know, the potent formula features everything from lactic acid and licorice to lemongrass and aloe, and together they work overtime to slough off dead skin cells, clear your complexion and leave your skin feeling soft and smooth.

8. Vacation Classic Whip SPF 30

Dermstore

This viral sunscreen comes out looking *and* smelling like whipped cream and tropical vibes. "Think: notes of coconut, banana, '80s poolside nostalgia—the works," former PureWow editor Delia Curtis explained. Fragrance aside, the hydrating sunscreen is formulated with everything from banana extract to niacinamide and vitamin E, and it provides broad-spectrum SPF 30 protection so harmful sun rays don't stand a chance. That's why it earned a 94 out of 100 in a PureWow100 review. "For the first three and a half hours, the sunscreen worked perfectly with no apparent issues. (I even got a tiny bit tan without burning at all!)," Curtis continued. Just remember that it only gives you 80 minutes of water-resistant protection, so if you’re spending the day at the beach or pool, you'll want to reapply to stay protected against the sun—not that you'll be complaining.

9. Neocutis Lumière Firm Riche Extra Tightening Eye Cream

Dermstore

Minimizing fine lines, bags and dark circles around your eye area can be quite a task. Unless you have this reader-favorite eye cream on hand. Loaded with peptides, growth factors, vitamin C and caffeine, the formula is designed to boost collagen production, combat puffiness and brighten your under-eyes all at once. Plus, a little goes a long way. Don't believe it? Just hear this happy buyer out: "You only need a little, and it works like a charm. I see a noticeable difference in my under-eye appearance, reduces dark circles, brightens surface and so much more. I can't recommend this product enough."

10. T3 Aire IQ Intelligent Hair Dryer

Dermstore

If you're in the market for a new hair dryer, look no further than this T3 tool with an LED screen, custom heat settings and three attachments—so you can go from diffusing your curls to drying your hair straight in a snap (literally). And here's a little secret: The T3 Aire IQ has a stamp of approval from one PureWow editor, who says it's a beautiful piece of machinery with a stellar user experience. It even has smart attachment recognition that automatically refines temperature and airflow depending on your attachment, helping you to achieve a salon-worthy blowout while protecting your strands in the process.

12. 111SKIN Celestial Black Diamond Lifting and Firming Treatment Masks

Dermstore

PureWow Senior Commerce Editor Stephanie Maida said she was "blown away" by her own before and after pics after using this viral hydrogel mask. "After leaving the two pieces on my face for 20 minutes, I removed the mask to reveal instantly brighter, bouncier skin. No really, I poked and prodded the area around my cheeks and nasolabial folds (where I've been most insecure about volume loss since entering my 30s) and it felt fuller and firmer. Plus, my overall tired and dull complexion was glowing."
As its name suggests, it really is infused with diamond particles "to help powerful peptides travel deep into the skin," and clearly, it lives up to the hype. (P.S. You'll get five masks in this box.)

13. The Nue Co. Magnesium Ease Spray

Dermstore

What's the secret to getting quality beauty sleep every night? This cult-favorite magnesium spray, apparently. It's packed with magnesium, which has shown promise in helping to improve sleep. According to one buyer, this spray also helps with muscle recovery. "This works," they explain. "Instant relief from muscle aches and pains. I frequently have neck and back pain. I have tried so many products and some work, [but] this is one that works every time." PureWow Senior Editor Dana Dickey also gave it a go and was not disappointed. "Let’s just say my feet are more supple and soft than ever before thanks to the oil, and I’m sleeping like a baby. (A baby that’s getting all her magnesium.)," she shared in her roundup of the best magnesium oil. And, of course, this baby (which can be sprayed directly on the skin) came in at number one.

14. Dr. Dennis Gross Alpha Beta Universal Daily Peel (30 Pack)

Dermstore

Effective skincare on-the-go is made easy when you have these two-step packets on hand. When used daily, they're supposed to rejuvenate skin—evening out your complexion and delivering a glow that you can see from across the room—all by way of skin-resurfacing glycolic and lactic acids. Angela Pares, PureWow's VP of Design and Branded Content, put the extra-strength version (which is also on sale) to the test and noticed a difference in her skin texture after the first use. As she shared in her review, "[My skin] felt smoother, but not tight like it once had with my old scrubs." The brand says you can also expect instant and long-term anti-aging benefits as an added bonus of an already pretty great product.

15. HigherDOSE Red Light Face Mask

Dermstore

Per the brand, this light therapy device combines red and near-infrared LED technologies to provide a noninvasive treatment that can potentially boost your mood, collagen production *and* natural glow. In other words, this is the ultimate self-care splurge, so it's no wonder shoppers are lining up to buy it on sale now. The red light mask targets numerous skincare concerns, from fine lines and wrinkles to elasticity and firmness, and even has a stamp of approval from PureWow Executive Managing Editor Catrina Yohay. "Overall, I think it added brightness, reduced inflammation (specifically on my cheeks that tend to get red) and appeared to smooth the small lines starting to form on my forehead. Simply put, I felt like it brought my skin back to life," she shared.

16. Wander Beauty Baggage Claim Gold Eye Masks (6 Pairs)

Dermstore

PureWow's former beauty director swore she would buy these pretty gold eye masks even if they didn't work. "They’re just that fun to wear," she raved. Well, good news, beauty buffs: They really do work! They're infused with aloe leaf, calendula, amino acids and peptides, which do a fine job of softening and relaxing your under-eye area, according to frequent users. And you only need to leave them on for ten to 15 minutes for them to work their magic.

17. Obagi Medical Professional-C Serum

Dermstore

You may have been waiting for the perfect moment to buy this cult-loved serum loaded with *a ton* of vitamin C. It's a good thing you did, because it's finally up for grabs for a steal. While it may still be a splurge, a slew of buyers think it's worth it for how well it penetrates their skin, helping to minimize dark spots and fine lines while brightening their complexion overall. "This is my ride-or-die vitamin C. I have used it for more than ten years..." one shares. "[It] helps to keep my skin glowing and hydrated. This is a must-buy!"

18. NuFACE Mini+ Starter Kit

Dermstore

"The first time I used the NuFACE Mini, I swore I saw instant results; four years later, I stand by that," Maida said in her review of the OG gadget. This newer version is slightly smaller and it connects directly to the brand’s app for more personalized treatments and tracking. More importantly, it stimulates the skin to help tone, lift *and* contour the face almost instantly, and has high potential to make your cheekbones pop and your jawline look sharper. Plus, it's compact and convenient for travel (so you can stay looking lifted anywhere). And as if it couldn't get any more exciting, it also comes with the brand's Aqua gel activator and Silk crème, which Maida confirms will help boost the effects. It's a mini must-have!

10 Beauty Products Every Woman Over 40 Should Own

Why You Should Trust Us

PureWow's editors and writers have spent more than a decade shopping online, digging through sales and putting our home goods, beauty finds, wellness picks and more through the wringer—all to help you determine which are actually worth your hard-earned cash. From our PureWow100 series (where we rank items on a 100-point scale) to our painstakingly curated lists of fashion, beauty, cooking, home and family picks, you can trust that our recommendations have been thoroughly vetted for function, aesthetics and innovation. Whether you're looking for travel-size hair dryers you can take on-the-go or women’s walking shoes that won’t hurt your feet, we’ve got you covered.

As renowned aesthetician Renée Rouleau shares on her blog, “The 40s are the peri-menopausal years, which is the stage of aging before actual menopause. These are the years when estrogen is slowly starting to decline and because of this, you’ll experience changes in the skin’s texture as well as loss of tone and increased facial hair.”

Of course, any changes in your skin will also affect the way your makeup wears, so we’re going to make sure we cover both skincare and makeup in this guide to the ten beauty products women over 40 should own.

What to Look for in Products for Women Over 40

Depending on your individual concerns, you’ll be on the lookout for different ingredients. For instance, if you’re primarily concerned with sun spots and uneven tone, you’ll want to look for antioxidants (like vitamin C) and brightening ingredients (like kojic acid or niacinamide). And if you’re bothered by fine lines and an overall loss in elasticity, this is a great time to consider adding a retinol to the mix if you haven’t already.

One thing every woman in their 40s (and beyond) could use more of in their routine? Moisture, by way of your face cream or lotion, sure, but also your cosmetics. More on that ahead.

Meet the Experts

• Robert Sesnek is a celebrity makeup artist based in New York.
• Mario Dedivonvic is a celebrity makeup artist and founder and CEO of Makeup by Mario.

Beauty Products For Women Over 40 At A Glance

• A Gentle Face Wash: CeraVe Hydrating Cleanser
• A Vitamin C Serum: BeautyStat Universal C Skin Refiner
• A Sunscreen You Actually Enjoy Wearing: Thank You Farmer Sun
• A Retinol: Marie Veronique Multi-Retinol Night Emulsion
• A Restorative Moisturizer: SkinCeuticals Triple Lipid Restore 2:4:2
• A Hydrating Primer: Laura Mercier Pure Canvas Primer
• A Lightweight Foundation: NARS Light Reflecting Advanced Skincare Foundation
• A Creamy Blush: Westman Atelier Baby Cheeks Lip + Cheek Cream Blush Stick
• A Creamy Eyeshadow: Bobbi Brown Long-Wear Cream Eyeshadow Stick
• A Brow Pencil: Anastasia Beverly Hills Brow Wiz® Ultra-Slim Precision Brow Pencil

9 Women in Their 40s Share Their Favorite Splurge & Steal

1. CeraVe Hydrating Cleanser

Ulta Beauty

This cleanser might take some getting used to at first because it doesn't have any of that foamy lather we've come to expect from face wash. In fact, it feels more like a lotion when you massage it over your skin, but it cleans thoroughly without drying things out, thanks to the ceramides and glycerin in the formula.

2. BeautyStat Universal C Skin Refiner

Dermstore

Vitamin C is the ultimate multitasker because it treats existing sun damage while protecting your skin from free radicals, which can accelerate signs of aging. BeautyStat's Universal C Skin Refiner is formulated with 20 percent pure vitamin C and has a lightweight, gel-cream texture that isn't too greasy or runny like some other vitamin C serums you may have tried in the past. Layer it under your SPF every morning.

3. Thank You Farmer Sun Project Sunscreen SPF 50

Amazon

With an SPF 50 and PA+++ rating, this silky sunscreen has a thinner consistency (like a serum) and combines both chemical and mineral filters to protect your skin against UVA and UVB rays. Infused with bamboo water and African walnut oil, it keeps your face smooth and hydrated without leaving any telltale traces behind (unless you’re counting the soft glow). Apply it every single day—rain or shine, indoors or out—and don't be stingy about how much you use. Aim for a quarter-sized amount for your face alone and don’t forget your neck and backs of your hands.

4. Marie Veronique Multi-Retinol Night Emulsion

Credo Beauty

Long considered the gold standard in anti-aging by dermatologists, retinol is a vitamin A derivative that helps to increase cell turnover (which naturally slows down as you age). If you’re new to retinols or have sensitive skin, try this gentler pick from Marie Veronique to start. It features encapsulate retinol and bakuchiol to gradually address common signs of aging like dullness, fine lines and sun spots without the usual redness or irritation that comes with retinol.

5. SkinCeuticals Triple Lipid Restore 2:4:2

Dermstore

Lipids are your skin's natural fats and they're essential for maintaining the health of your skin barrier, which holds moisture in and keeps external irritants out. As we age, our lipid production declines, which is where a restorative treatment like this cream can help. Formulated with ceramides, natural cholesterol and fatty acids, it replenishes your skin (and works well with the aforementioned retinol).

6. Laura Mercier Pure Canvas Primer

Sephora

This moisture-rich primer is a PureWow editor favorite because it’s moisturizing on your skin while providing a soft-focus effect that minimizes the appearance of pores or uneven texture. The lightweight yet creamy formula creates a barrier that locks in hydration to create a smooth, even surface for applying makeup and keeping your face flake-free as it wears. As Robert Sesnek, a celebrity makeup artist told us back in 2021, using a primer is key for aging skin because “it visibly plumps any fine lines and give your makeup staying power.” When applying primer, Sesnek recommends adding “just a touch in any areas where the pores appear larger, which is usually on the cheeks or chin.”

7. NARS Light Reflecting Advanced Skincare Foundation

Sephora

Lightweight liquid foundations are so versatile. You can really sheer them down or build them up to hide any blotchiness or dark circles, while still leaving your skin looking dewy and naturally radiant—especially with a formula like this one from NARS, which features light-reflective mica in it. This foundation is also easy to apply and doesn’t migrate into lines or wrinkles near the mouth or eyes. Speaking of application, when it comes to your foundation, always start in the center of the face and blend outwards to soften any makeup around the perimeter of the face.

8. Westman Atelier Baby Cheeks Lip + Cheek Cream Blush Stick

Sephora

Sesnek explains, “Blush brings everything together and is especially impactful as you get older.” We’re big fans of this creamy blush from makeup artist Gucci Westman, who has worked with everyone from Jennifer Aniston to Anne Hathaway and Reese Witherspoon. The conveniently packaged stick is easy to use on the go and is loaded with hydrating pigment that gives your skin a soft flush in a swipe. Apply it high on the apples of your cheeks to lift the face and tap a little over your lips, too.

9. Bobbi Brown Long-Wear Cream Eyeshadow Stick

Sephora

By the time we reach our 40s, the skin around the eyes loses elasticity, which can make the application of eye makeup a bit trickier. That’s why it’s a good idea to switch from using powder eyeshadows to creamy, more emollient formulas that glide on easily and are less likely to settle into fine lines and crease as they wear. These classic shadow sticks from Bobbi Brown come in a multitude of shades and finishes and are an absolute breeze to use—so much so that we can apply it without a mirror if we need to.

10. Anastasia Beverly Hills Brow Wiz Ultra-Slim Precision Brow Pencil

Sephora

Last but not least, don’t neglect your brows. As Mario Dedivonvic, a celebrity makeup artist behind a few names you may recognize like J.Lo and Kim Kardashian previously told us, "Around the age of 40, it’s imperative that you don’t neglect your eyebrows. They tend to get thinner as we age—especially on the ends—so I suggest filling them in with a pencil that matches your hair and working it in short strokes. Finish by brushing them out with a spoolie so they look soft and feathery." To get the job done, we recommend this pencil from Anastasia Beverly Hills, which has a super slim tip that delivers subtle, hair-like lines and comes with a spoolie brush on the other end so you can fluff and groom your hairs for the most natural-looking results.

The 10 Best Makeup Tips for Women Over 40, According to Top Makeup Artists

Why You Should Trust Us

PureWow's editors and writers have spent more than a decade shopping online, digging through sales and putting our home goods, beauty finds, wellness picks and more through the wringer—all to help you determine which are actually worth your hard-earned cash. From our PureWow100 series (where we rank items on a 100-point scale) to our painstakingly curated lists of fashion, beauty, cooking, home and family picks, you can trust that our recommendations have been thoroughly vetted for function, aesthetics and innovation. Whether you're looking for travel-size hair dryers you can take on-the-go or women’s walking shoes that won’t hurt your feet, we’ve got you covered.

Meet the Experts

• Erin Fraundorf, DMD, MSD is the founder of BOCA Orthodontic + Whitening Studio in Missouri. Dr. Fraundorf earned her Doctorate of Dental Medicine at the University of Louisville, then completed a 30-month residency of specialized training in orthodontics, as well as a Master of Science in Dentistry and Orthodontics at the Saint Louis University Center for Advanced Dental Education. Dr. Erin is an active member of the American Association of Orthodontists, American Dental Association, Missouri Dental Association and the Orthodontic Education and Research Foundation. She is also proud to serve on the Greater St Louis Dental Society New Dentist Committee and as a Representative for the Missouri Dental Association.
• Dr. Sam Lee is a board-certified orthodontist, the co-founder of Sons & Daughters Orthodontics in Irvine & Riverside, CA, and a global representative of Align Technology. Dr. Lee attended UCLA School of Dentistry, before completing a residency in Orthodontics at the Herman Ostrow School of Dentistry at USC. Dr. Sam is an active member American Association of Orthodontists, American Dental Association, California Dental Association, Orange County Dental Society, Southern California Edward Angle Society and the American Board of Orthodontics.

How Do I Know If I’m a Good Candidate for Invisalign?

Both dentists agree that Invisalign is a good option for pretty much anyone who wants their teeth straightened. “It works for many different types of individuals, including those who have overcrowding, an overbite, underbite, crossbite, gaps, crooked teeth or anyone who has had teeth shift after braces,” says Dr. Lee.

“During the initial consultation, your doctor can show you a detailed 3D scan mapping out the treatment process. This will give you an idea of what your smile will look like after completing treatment. Your doctor will also be able to go over more specific details about what can be achieved—from individual tooth movement to how your overall smile will appear—using specific in-face visualization tools,” he adds.

What Results Can I Realistically Expect from Getting Invisalign? 

It’s a common myth that Invisalign only treats simple cases, rather than anything complex. While Dr. Fraundorf does concede that there are some “complex cases that have limitations and may require various alternatives like undergoing a hybrid treatment (i.e., utilizing additional buttons or brackets in addition to your clear aligners or surgical interventions, etc.), this is determined on a case-by-case basis.” In fact, since 2011* over 1,900,000 patients with complex malocclusions, including Class II, open bite, bicuspid extraction and deep bite have been treated with Invisalign clear aligners.

In terms of maintaining the results, no surprises here: Patient compliance plays a big part of your treatment. “If you wear your clear aligners as instructed and are in the hands of a knowledgeable, detail-oriented orthodontist, you can expect excellent results,” assures Dr. Fraundorf.

How Long Does Invisalign Take?

The length of your Invisalign treatment can vary widely, as it’s dependent on several criteria, including:

• The severity of your teeth (aka case complexity) at baseline. Some questions Dr. Fraundorf considers include how much tooth movement is required? Is it minimal alignment or is it a more complex case that may require significant coordination of the arches and bite correction?
  
• Patient compliance. While every doctor’s prescription varies, a good rule of thumb is to expect to wear your aligners full time (meaning 20-22 hours/day) for efficient tooth movement. The less you wear your aligners, the longer you have to stay in each tray, which means it will take longer to reach your goals.
  
• Your dentist or orthodontist’s level of expertise. “Your doctor is the designer and the captain of your smile transformation journey. They are responsible for utilizing the tools to steer the ship and get you to the finish line,” says Dr. Fraundorf. “Some doctors are more skilled and detail-oriented, and some are more specialized (i.e., a general dentist vs an orthodontic specialist). All of these factors will all affect how long your treatment will take and the end results.”

How Much Does Invisalign Cost?

This will also depend on several factors that vary from patient to patient. “Your doctor will determine the cost of your treatment based on how complex your case is and how many aligners you need, but in most cases, the cost of Invisalign treatment is comparable to the cost of traditional braces,” says Dr. Lee. Other things that will affect the cost of your treatment include the expertise of your doctor (are they a board-certified orthodontist vs. a general dentist) and the geographic region of where you’re getting your treatment done.

What Are Some Common Misconceptions People Have About Invisalign?

One of the biggest misconceptions about Invisalign is that people think it’s only meant for adults. “Invisalign works for kids and teens as well. In fact, they’re often preferred because they’re less painful than traditional braces and can fix both simple cases and more complex smile issues,” says Dr. Lee.

Another common misconception Dr. Fraundorf hears from patients is that they expect Invisalign to be completely invisible. “There are various components to Invisalign—namely, these little ‘attachments’ that are tooth-colored and adhered onto your teeth in various configurations to assist in specific types of tooth movement,” she explains. “Many of my patients are surprised to see that they have all of these attachments on their teeth during the treatment, so it’s important to openly discuss these things with your provider before you begin.”

What Are the Best Ways to Ensure Your Teeth Stay Straight After Completing Invisalign?

Follow your doctor’s prescribed protocol. “Like all teeth straightening treatments, including traditional braces, once you’re done with your Invisalign treatment, you’ll need to wear a retainer to keep your teeth straight longterm. Depending on your doctor, you’ll be offered custom-made Vivera™ retainers that are crafted using the same technology as your Invisalign aligners or another retainer brand,” says Dr. Lee.

Dr. Fraundorf adds that you should expect to wear these removable retainers at night for the rest of your life because your teeth continue to move. “For some patients, I prescribe a fixed or bonded retainer (more commonly referred to as a ‘permanent’ retainer), but that’s usually reserved for people who began with excessive lower anterior crowding or a gap between the upper front teeth,” she adds.

Wait, What? Our Teeth Continue to Move?

“It’s true our teeth will continue to shift throughout lifetime,” says Dr. Lee. “Our bodies are constantly changing—whether it’s our hair, our skin or our teeth. They’re constantly exposed to wear and contact to help us function in our daily lives, and when that’s not balanced, our teeth can slowly move and often, they move unevenly. This is why even after orthodontic treatment is complete, you will need a retainer to ‘retain’ the teeth in their newly fixed position as best as possible. It’s no different than going to a gym and working out your body to a physical goal, and then doing the necessary things afterwards to maintain your body in that shape for as long as possible,” he explains.

_{*Data on file at Align Technology, as of October 20^th, 2019}

My mother used to joke that she and her friends were responsible for the hole in the ozone layer because of how much hairspray they used in the 1970s. Having flipped through her high school year book (class of ‘79!), I'm inclined to believe her. The era was marked by major volume and Farrah Fawcett flips, disco curls and afros, many of them, of course, held in place by a cloud of aerosol. Scroll TikTok today and you’ll see those same iconic ‘70s hairstyles back in rotation. 

The ‘dos can indeed be recreated. However, as a viral post on the social media platform X (formerly Twitter) recently pointed out, hair itself just isn’t what it used to be. Alongside a photo of Cybill Shepherd in the 1976 film Taxi Driver, writer Jaimee Marshall posed the question, “why did women in the ‘70s have a completely different hair texture even though they seemingly did a lot of the same hairstyles?”

It’s true. Hair seemed lighter, airier and more feathery. But given the techniques used back then (not to mention all. that. aerosol.), it was probably a lot less healthy. So before we romanticize the texture, it’s worth asking whether it was ever the goal, or just the byproduct of damage. I tapped a few experts to find out. 

Meet the Experts

• Bridget Brager is a Los Angeles-based hairstylist and Moroccanoil ambassador who has worked with celebrities like Kate Bosworth, Diane Kruger, Priyanka Chopra, Gwyneth Paltrow and Chris Pratt. Her work has appeared in ELLE, Teen Vogue, Glamour, Vanity Fair, InStyle, GQ and Marie Claire. 
• Mark DeBolt and Ryan Trygstad are cofounders of New York City’s Mark Ryan Salon, both boasting decades of experience in coloring and hairstyling. DeBolt is an ambassador, educator and hair color expert for Wella Professionals, as well as the trusted colorist of celebrities such as Naomi Watts, Rebecca Taylor and Vanessa Ferlito. Trygstad has a devoted celebrity clientele which includes Laura Dern, Emma Roberts, Penn Badgley and Kelly Ripa, and has been featured in Harper’s Bazaar, InStyle, Vanity Fair and Vogue.
• Tierra Milton is the founder of She & Her Hair Studio, a full-service salon and hair studio in Staten Island, New York. She is a licensed cosmetologist and certified trichologist, blending artistry with advanced hair-science knowledge. She specializes in scalp health, natural hair care, precision styling and flawless weave and wig installations—all with a focus on protecting the long-term integrity of her clients’ hair.

Olivia Newton-John, Donna Summer (SMP/Globe Photos/ZUMA Press Wire/Shutterstock)

“The ‘70s were all about bigger, fluffier, more fixed styles,” says Brager. But “even the silky, effortless-looking hair from that era was usually created with far more force than we’d use today. [They were using] higher heat, heavier products and more mechanical manipulation (high heat, backcombing, products that had a high alcohol content) to lock the shape in place.” DeBolt confirms that these methods, along with perms and alcohol-heavy hairsprays “could be pretty rough on the hair over time.”

As Brager continues, “There were several common techniques in the ‘70s that most hairstylists would avoid today. The biggest were stove-heated curling irons and pressing combs. Heat wasn’t regulated, and heat protectants didn’t exist, so hair was often overheated and damaged. Another major issue was daily teasing combined with heavy hairspray (like Aqua Net). Teasing in the wrong direction causes breakage, and the high alcohol sprays used at the time dried hair out, making it dull, brittle and prone to snapping.” 

Jaclyn Smith, Farrah Fawcett, Kate Jackson (THA/Shutterstock)

And if a ‘70s gal went for the straight-hair Cher look? DeBolt notes, “They used ironing boards and irons to flatten and smooth their hair, which could not have been good. Ryan’s aunts used to iron their hair on an ironing board—ouch!” 

Thankfully, our knowledge of haircare seems to have come a long way since the original Charlie’s Angels aired on TV, which may be a major reason why strands today don’t look quite the same—and why you probably wouldn’t want them to. 

However, not every retro hairstyling technique is a red flag.  As Milton explains, wet sets—which involve setting damp and/or lotioned hair in curlers—were as popular back in the day as they are now, especially among Black women. “We still use this technique...when it comes to achieving certain hairstyles that can last longer,” she says. It’s a great way to build volume without harsh heat.

Donna Summer (Ralph Dominguez/MediaPunch/Shutterstock)

Brager and DeBolt second the idea of using some good ol’ fashioned curlers—either heatless or on a cool setting—for reviving ‘70s styles without the damage. “Velcro rollers, a good round brush and smart layering go a long way without having to beat the hair up by backcombing and teasing,” DeBolt tells me. “Movement was key to the look then, soft and wearable. For the fluffy look, the heatless curler setting look works great.”

If you are using a hot tool to get those Fawcett flips, both stylists emphasize heat protectant. “I don’t start a blowout or styling appointment without a heat protectant, because protection is non-negotiable,” says Brager. “On damp hair, I use Moroccanoil Treatment Original from mid-shaft to ends, which provides protection up to 450 degrees Fahrenheit while adding slip and control. If the hair is already dry, I apply a heat protection spray before each pass with a hot tool.” Milton also stresses keeping strands moisturized and hydrated before attempting any big ‘70s blowouts, since that helps hair hold a style longer while requiring less product. 

Pam Grier, Stevie Nicks (Aip/Kobal/Pat Johnson/Shutterstock)

But if you’re committed to the throwback style, Milton reminds us it ultimately comes down to the cut. “In regards to the afro, it was just a matter of making sure you had a really good haircut or shape [to pick out],” she says. “[And] ultimately, the key thing with Farrah Fawcett was that her hair was layered. It was all about harmony and rhythm, where you want the hair to lay.” The same applies to Stevie Nicks shags and curtain bangs. 

Searches for “hair in the ‘70s” are up 40 percent this year, according to Google. So if you’re tempted to revisit the era, focus less on recreating the texture and more on modern technique. You can get the movement, the volume, even the drama—just skip the damage.

The 20 Best ‘70s Hairstyles to Try

Why You Should Trust Us

PureWow's editors and writers have spent more than a decade shopping online, digging through sales and putting our home goods, beauty finds, wellness picks and more through the wringer—all to help you determine which are actually worth your hard-earned cash. From our PureWow100 series (where we rank items on a 100-point scale) to our painstakingly curated lists of fashion, beauty, cooking, home and family picks, you can trust that our recommendations have been thoroughly vetted for function, aesthetics and innovation. Whether you're looking for travel-size hair dryers you can take on-the-go or women’s walking shoes that won’t hurt your feet, we’ve got you covered.

As a curly gal, my haircare routine is crucial—so much that I set aside dedicated time for it every week. I often spend at least an hour in the shower just washing, detangling and conditioning my hair before I even get to any styling and drying. And since I have low porosity hair (aka moisture doesn’t like to stick around), it’s essential for me to keep conditioner on my locks longer (sometimes up to 30 minutes) before I rinse it out. So when I heard about the K18 Leave-In Molecular hair mask ($75; $56), I thought it was a joke. Could a hair mask really work its magic in four minutes without a rinse, especially on dry, color-treated curls? I decided to find out myself. Here’s my honest review of the viral mask—which is currently 25 percent off at DermStreet—after using it for a month.

DermStreet

What Is the K18 Leave-In Hair Mask?

This leave-in treatment promises to reverse damage in as little as four minutes. The formula features behentrimonium chloride, which is an ingredient that our friends at Brydie report “reduces frizz and provides shine,” as well as, wheat protein to help strengthen strands, reduce breakage and improve the overall appearance of your hair. But the star ingredient in the mask is its peptide technology, which aims to repair hair damage caused by bleaching, coloring, chemical treatments, heat and daily wear-and-tear. According to the brand, the peptides can “reach the innermost layers of hair and reconnect broken keratin chains responsible for hair’s strength and elasticity.” With continued use, the hair mask is purported to strengthen strands, smooth down frizz and add softness to your hair.

What Makes the K18 Leave-In Hair Mask So Popular?

It’s become a favorite among celebrities (like Simone Biles, Selena Gomez and Rihanna), editors and hair stylists over the years. And of course, it got into the hands of TikTokers, who can’t stop talking about the results. 

When I asked former Commerce Editor Olivia Dubyak why she recommends this hair mask, she shared: “I'm not someone who usually splurges when it comes to my hair products, but I have fine, blonde hair that I get highlighted a few times a year so the bleach can cause some breakage. Last year, I went rogue and dyed my hair dark brown, and then, I started the process to go blonde again, which really did a number on my texture and ends.”

She continues, “I started incorporating the K18 hair mask at the word of a TikToker (to my defense, she is a trichologist) and my hair feels thicker and way stronger than it has in the past. I also really like that it only takes three pumps of product to coat all my hair, which helps the product last longer. For me, I started off using it for six washes in a row, and then went to using it once every few washes.”

My First Impression of the K-18 Leave-In Hair Mask

My first thought was that there was no way this small bottle would last a month. I have long, thick curls and I rely heavily on conditioner. I even laughed out loud while reading the instructions because they said to start with one to three pumps. Ma’am, have you seen my hair? Luckily, it said I could apply more if needed, which I did. I ended up using about three to four pumps per each of the eight sections of my hair. 

The scent was very subtle, which I appreciated. It has floral notes of jasmine and peony that weren’t too overpowering, but still leave a lasting fragrance on your hair. I recently hugged someone a few hours after I washed my hair, and they were quick to compliment me on how good my hair smelled (which was definitely a nice confidence booster).

How to Use the K18 Leave-In Hair Mask

Once I finished shampooing, I worked the mask into equal sections of my hair. It’s pretty lightweight for a conditioner, especially compared to the thicker, creamier formulas I’m used to. At this point, I already felt like it wasn’t going to work for me. I was also skeptical because the instructions said to apply it on towel-dried hair. Again, I have low porosity hair, which means my locks need water to thrive. Much to my surprise, when I applied the mask to my towel-dried hair, it slipped on with ease, coating every last strand, which restored some hope. 

What Does a Beauty Editor Think About the K18 Leave-In Hair Mask?

K18

It took some adjustment during the first week because I had never left a hair mask in before. But after week four, I realized how nice it was to cut down on my shower time. I usually spend forever completing my haircare routine, but using a leave-in hair mask made the whole process quicker and more seamless.

Whether I applied any additional styling products afterwards or not, I found that my hair was softer, bouncier and more voluminous. This leave-in mask doesn’t play around. I wouldn’t say it completely minimized frizz, but I can also blame the humid NYC summer for some of that.

Now, don’t get me wrong, the first two days after washing my hair were great. My curls were thriving until I hit the third day mark, at which point I began noticing some buildup that irritated my scalp.

Typically, I would wash my hair weekly, but because of the buildup from this mask, I had to start washing it twice a week, which was too much for me and my curls. I was starting to wonder if I was using the product correctly, but after looking at other reviews, I saw that some others were having the same issue. 

The K18 Leave-In Mask is marketed to all hair types, but I don’t think those with low porosity or fine hair will benefit much from using it. I also think my hair doesn’t do so well with a leave-in mask without rinsing. Yes, it leaves my hair softer and more manageable, but only temporarily. 

So, is it a scam? Not at all. There are plenty of other reviewers (including my colleagues) who stand by it. I wouldn’t say it’s the worst thing I’ve ever tried on my curls. I just think other products suit my hair better. I’m also open to trying it again in the near future—maybe I’ll use a different shampoo beforehand or another styling product afterwards to see if that helps with the buildup. After all, getting your haircare routine down is a science, amiright? 

How to Fix Damaged Hair: 11 Secrets Stylists Swear By

Why You Should Trust Us

PureWow's editors and writers have spent more than a decade shopping online, digging through sales and putting our home goods, beauty finds, wellness picks and more through the wringer—all to help you determine which are actually worth your hard-earned cash. From our PureWow100 series (where we rank items on a 100-point scale) to our painstakingly curated lists of fashion, beauty, cooking, home and family picks, you can trust that our recommendations have been thoroughly vetted for function, aesthetics and innovation. Whether you're looking for travel-size hair dryers you can take on-the-go or women’s walking shoes that won’t hurt your feet, we’ve got you covered.

Hot take: Tanning drops are one of the greatest beauty creations of all time. Because who doesn't want to look sun-kissed without sitting under the sun for hours!? They also come in clutch in between seasons when you want to get your glow on. They're a beauty must-have year-round, and buyers—including PureWow VP of Editorial Content Candace Davison—swear by the Isle of Paradise self-tanning face drops.

Right now, the latest formulation is on sale at QVC, allowing you to get that fresh-from-Turks-and-Caicos glow even if the only light on your face this winter has been the blue glare of your computer screen. The shopping site already offers a serious deal on the drops—$36 for two bottles, when they're typically $30 apiece elsewhere—but right now, they're marked down to $30 for the duo.

And if you're new to shopping at QVC, you can save $15 on orders of $35 or more using the code WELCOME15, providing a nice incentive to pick up a second set for your bestie (or ensure you keep that glow going year-round).

Want to know which buzzy products are *really* worth buying? Sign up for our shopping newsletter to uncover our favorite finds.

This past May, Isle of Paradise's Face Drops got a glow-up, literally, with a reformulation that promised to be just as customizable and buildable, but with even more skincare benefits. The new niacinamide, hyaluronic acid and azelaic acid-packed formula is also dermatologist-approved and promises to visibly brighten, hydrate and even out skin tone while delivering an instant summer glow (aka your dream tan), per the brand.

I had to know whether Isle of Paradise lived up to the hype, so PureWow Senior Commerce Editor Stephanie Maida and I put it to the test. Let's just say that our before-and-after pictures speak for themselves.

Destinee Scott Before and After Photo

Whether you've tried Isle of Paradise's original self-tanning face drops or not, all you really need to know is that the product is the next best thing to achieving a natural-looking tan. It also works fast—I took my after photo four hours after application. Speaking of the application, it follows the exact same process as the OG formula: apply three or more drops to your go-to moisturizer (depending on how deep you want your tan to be) and evenly apply it to your face and neck. Then, four to six hours later, you should look like you've been kissed by the sun! And if you don't, simply repeat the steps until you achieve your desired shade.

Your bronzy new look should also last up to five days, but if you ask me, that's not the most exciting thing about this new formula. Besides the fact that it now has a stamp of approval from dermatologists, I'm particularly drawn to its fragrance-free and non-comedogenic components, meaning it shouldn't clog pores. As someone with slightly sensitive skin and a short skincare routine, this has been a huge benefit. I never feel like the drops are interfering with my regular routine. They've actually become a part of it; I've been using them since winter. And I'm not the only one. Maida has also been loving the new formula, but I'll let her tell it.

Stephanie Maida Before and After Photo

"After exfoliating and washing my face in the shower, I used two drops in my Clarins Extra-Firming Energy moisturizer, which I mixed around in my hands before applying as evenly as I could across my face," she explained. "I felt no stinging or irritation. I went to bed and, voilà, I woke up to a subtle—but noticeable to me—golden glow. I've used Isle of Paradise face tanning drops before, but I will say that the old formula used to give me a bit of a self-tan mustache, where it would look darker just above my lip. Not so with this new formula; I thought the color looked even and natural all over."

I couldn't agree more, which is why I highly recommend stocking up before summer. But before you do, you should know that the self-tanning drops are available in three colors: light, medium and dark.

Isle of Paradise

The colors basically represent its tanning powers. So, the light color will give you a subtle tan (perfect for beginners), whereas the medium color will give you a slightly deeper tan. Meanwhile, dark is ideal for pro self-tanners.

Ultimately, all colors are customizable and buildable, depending on the number of drops used per application, so you can't go wrong with Isle of Paradise's new formula. After all, I used a medium color to achieve my sun-kissed glow, while Maida used the light color, and we were both happy with our results. Take your pick, and you'll be vacation-ready in no time.

The 12 Best Tanning Drops According to Our Editors (and One Even Kelly Ripa Swears By)

Why You Should Trust Us

PureWow's editors and writers have spent more than a decade shopping online, digging through sales and putting our home goods, beauty finds, wellness picks and more through the wringer—all to help you determine which are actually worth your hard-earned cash. From our PureWow100 series (where we rank items on a 100-point scale) to our painstakingly curated lists of fashion, beauty, cooking, home and family picks, you can trust that our recommendations have been thoroughly vetted for function, aesthetics and innovation. Whether you're looking for travel-size hair dryers you can take on-the-go or women’s walking shoes that won’t hurt your feet, we’ve got you covered.

Whether or not you consider yourself a "classics nerd," you've probably found yourself swept up in Wuthering Heights fever following the premiere of the steamy film starring Jacob Elordi and Margot Robbie. Director Emerald Fennell's take might not be the most faithful to Emily Brontë's seminal novel, but one thing's for sure: It—and its cast—looks damn good. From the fashion to the set dressings, the impact of the visuals can't be contested. And that includes the gorgeous glam featured on Robbie, who stars as Catherine Earnshaw.

Throughout the film, Robbie displays a romantic palette marked by rosy lips and a windswept flush. I'm obsessed with the latter—that is, cheeks that appear to have come straight from a walk on the moors—so I had to know what the movie's makeup artist, Pati Dubroff, used to achieve it. Luckily, I got my answer. Dubroff used none other than the N°1 de Chanel cheek and lip balm ($50) to capture Cathy's character in her complexion—free-spirited, passionate, burning with emotion.

Want to know which buzzy products are *really* worth buying? Sign up for our shopping newsletter to uncover our favorite finds.

IMDb/Warner Brothers

As Dubroff told Byrdie, she mixed the shades Red Camellia and Berry Boost to create the perfect hue. And not just on screen. Apparently, she's also been using the Chanel product on Robbie for the film's global press tour, so if you've been admiring the star's red carpet looks as much as I have, take note.

Chanel

The $50 two-in-one can be used on both the cheeks and lips, with a creamy formula that's meant to melt into skin like butter. It's also enriched with red camellia oil to help nourish the area while leaving a slick of vibrant color behind.

Dubroff applied the cream color to the apples of the cheeks and used a brush to diffuse the deep shades for a more natural glow. Although when it comes to blush balms, you can always just dab it on with your fingers. Either way, you'll be in for a cinematic finish with a touch of Brontë drama if you want to give Cathy's go-to blush a try. (I know I certainly do.)

The 3 Beauty Products Behind Nicole Kidman's Gorgeous Golden Globes Glow (Psst: They're All Under $50)

Why You Should Trust Us

PureWow's editors and writers have spent more than a decade shopping online, digging through sales and putting our home goods, beauty finds, wellness picks and more through the wringer—all to help you determine which are actually worth your hard-earned cash. From our PureWow100 series (where we rank items on a 100-point scale) to our painstakingly curated lists of fashion, beauty, cooking, home and family picks, you can trust that our recommendations have been thoroughly vetted for function, aesthetics and innovation. Whether you're looking for travel-size hair dryers you can take on-the-go or women’s walking shoes that won’t hurt your feet, we’ve got you covered.

Every February, the industry rushes to spotlight Black-owned beauty brands, shelves fill with roundups and social feeds buzz with well-intentioned support. Then March hits, and too often, the attention fades. But Black beauty innovation doesn’t operate on a calendar. It never has. These brands are building, formulating, testing and refining year-round, solving problems the industry ignored for decades—and they deserve to be celebrated with that same consistency.

Many of the products on this list aren’t new discoveries for me. Some have been in my rotation for years. Others are newer additions I’ve folded in recently and immediately wondered how I ever did without. What they all have in common is that they work. I’m happy to support these brands because they’ve supported me, and if you’re looking to refresh your routine with products that actually do what they promise, you should too.

Sweet July Irie Face Oil

Original Photo by Deena Campbell

I’ve tried more face oils than I can count, and most of them fall into one of two camps: either they just sit on top of your skin, or they promise glow and deliver grease. Sweet July’s Irie face oil, from founder Ayesha Curry, is one of the rare ones that actually earns a permanent spot on my sink. I started using it in January, during a phase when my skin felt dry and generally uncooperative, and it calmed things down without overwhelming my face. It absorbs beautifully, and the smell is to die for.

Danessa Myricks Beauty Yummy Skin Glow Serum

Original Photo by Deena Campbell

Dewy skin in February is a tall order, but Yummy Skin Glow Serum delivers every time. The lightweight, gel-serum texture sinks in fast, giving skin an immediate hit of hydration and a soft, lit-from-within glow. I use most on bare-skin days or mixed into foundation when my complexion could use a touch of shimmer. But what I love most is that it layers seamlessly with sunscreen and doesn’t pill over time.

Hollywood Beauty Glo Up Turmeric Vit C and Aloe Oil

Original Photo by Deena Campbell

Turmeric and vitamin C have long been my go-tos for my face, so when I saw them infused into a hair oil, I was immediately intrigued. I’ve been using this oil to seal moisture on my ends and smooth flyaways, and I don't think I’ll ever find a better oil. For anyone who already swears by turmeric and vitamin C in their skincare, this is an easy, natural extension into haircare.

LYS Beauty Higher Standard Cream Glow Blush Sticks

Sephora

Give me blush over eyeliner, lipstick and eyeshadow any day. It’s the one thing that instantly makes my face look awake, alive and like I tried—even when I didn’t. That’s why LYS Beauty Higher Standard Cream Glow Blush Sticks have become a staple in my routine. The formula hits that sweet spot between creamy and lightweight, melting into skin instead of sitting on top of it. I swipe it directly onto my cheeks, blend with my fingers and I’m done in under 30 seconds.

Design Essentials Almond & Avocado Leave-In Conditioner

Original Photo by Deena Campbell

This leave-in is one of those products I keep coming back to; not out of nostalgia, but because it actually works. As a Black-owned brand and one of the few lines that consistently delivers real results on my 4C curls, it’s earned permanent real estate in my routine. I use this leave-in in two very specific moments: when I’m prepping my hair for styling and when I’m taking down protective styles. In both cases, it adds slip without watering my hair down and makes detangling far less dramatic than it usually is.

The Lip Bar Liquid Matte Lipstick

Original Photo by Deena Campbell

Nothing gets me more excited than a red lip with the perfect bluish-red hue and The Lip Bar Liquid Matte in bawse lady hits exactly that balance. From the first swipe, it dries down beautifully without feeling like it’s sucking the life out of my lips, and even better? It doesn’t easily smear or leave lipstick stains on my white teeth. A small miracle in the world of red lipsticks.

Harlem Perfume Co. Langston Eau de Parfum

Sephora

I used to live in Harlem, so Harlem Perfume Co.’s Langston Eau de Parfum takes me back instantly. Founded by Black woman Teri Johnson, the fragrance opens with a hit of orange brandy before softening into jasmine, a combination that gets me every time. One spray and I’m back in a place and time I didn’t realize I missed.

Miss Jessie's Hold Me Down Edge Control Hair Gel

Original Photo by Deena Campbell

There are seasons when I change my hairstyle as often as I change my mind, and finding an edge gel that can keep up has felt impossible, until Miss Jessie’s Hold Me Down Edge Gel. Whether I’m wearing sleek straight styles or letting my curls have their moment, this gel keeps everything in place. No stray baby hairs peeking out, no flakes, and never that dreaded crunch look that makes your hair sound like you’re wearing armor. This edge gel is essential for anyone who likes to switch things up.

Black Girl Sunscreen Moisturizing Sunscreen Lotion SPF 30

Black Girl Sunscreen is one of my favorite affordable sunscreen lines, and one I trust enough to use on my kids. This ultra sheer version goes on smoothly, sinks in quickly and leaves zero white cast, which is still, somehow, not a given. I slather it on year-round, even in the dead of winter, because sun protection never takes a season off.

Donna’s Recipe Sweet Potato Pie Extra Creamy Hair and Scalp Oil

Ulta

I love sweet potato pie, but I never imagined I’d want my hair to smell like it… until I tried this oil, that is. Sweet Potato Pie Extra Creamy Hair and Scalp Oil, co-founded by Tabitha Brown, the beloved vegan food creator and wellness voice, and Gina Woods, is warm, cozy and instantly comforting. My little girl loves it too, which sealed the deal.

65 Black-Owned Fashion & Beauty Brands to Shop Now

Calling all Disney fans: If you're hoping to bring some fairy tale magic into your space this season, you're in luck. After the success of 2025's big collab, Bath & Body Works has partnered with the company once again to bring us a second round of candles, body mists, moisturizing creams and more in scents inspired by the iconic Disney princesses.

For 2026, the best-smelling brand has released five distinct scents that represent a new batch of princesses: Aurora, Mulan, Snow White and Rapunzel, along with the on-theme "Life’s a Fairytale" blend.

Bath & Body Works rewards members can start shopping the sneak preview on Feb. 12, while the full drop will be up for grabs for everyone on Feb. 13—but folks, you might want to start building your wish list ASAP because the limited-edition collection is guaranteed to sell out faster than you can say "bibbidi-bobbidi-boo."

Want to know which buzzy products are *really* worth buying? Sign up for our shopping newsletter to uncover our favorite finds.

Bath & Body Works

Fragrance aficionados have been recommending existing scents that may smell like the princesses for years. Now, there are official notes for four more of them, plus returning ones, Belle and Tiana. (PSA: You can try them all in the body mist sampler gift set, $55.) Here's what to expect from each, per the press release:

Ready to sniff out some more? Here are a few of the new Bath & Body Works x Disney releases that are sure to go fast.

1. Bath & Body Works Life's a Fairytale 3-Wick Candle

Bath & Body Works

This bow-topped beauty is made from a soy wax blend, delivering fruity, fanciful notes of berries, flowers and enchanted woods. And like many of the brand's candles, you can burn it for up to 45 hours, plenty of time for a Disney movie marathon.

2. Bath & Body Works Carriage Projector Nightlight

Bath & Body Works

The collection is filled with fun Wallflowers plugs, but I'm eyeing this gorgeous gold-trimmed carriage. In addition to making your room smell amazing (with the addition of a Wallflowers fragrance refill, sold separately), the design lights up to cast a magical glow—and illuminate your path in the dark.

3. Bath & Body Works Light-up Castle Pedestal

Bath & Body Works

What could be a more fitting throne for your new princess candle than this glorious castle pedestal? The ornately detailed glass-and-resin design is worthy of being displayed on its own (especially since the windows flood with light with just the touch of a button), but paired with your favorite three-wick candle, it's a truly magical masterpiece.

I Smelled Bath & Body Works Entire Valentine’s Day Collection and Feel Like I’ve Been Hit With Cupid’s Arrow

Why You Should Trust Us

PureWow's editors and writers have spent more than a decade shopping online, digging through sales and putting our home goods, beauty finds, wellness picks and more through the wringer—all to help you determine which are actually worth your hard-earned cash. From our PureWow100 series (where we rank items on a 100-point scale) to our painstakingly curated lists of fashion, beauty, cooking, home and family picks, you can trust that our recommendations have been thoroughly vetted for function, aesthetics and innovation. Whether you're looking for travel-size hair dryers you can take on-the-go or women’s walking shoes that won’t hurt your feet, we’ve got you covered.

Growing up, our kitchen always smelled like breakfast and hot metal, and the hot comb sat on the stove as if it had a permanent place there. Because when you have tight curls, nothing straightens your hair like the heat from a comb heated from a stove. Before it ever came near my head, my mother pressed it against a paper towel. The hiss and the faint brown scorch mark told her it was ready. Getting your hair straightened meant something important was happening: a church performance, picture day, a family party where an aunt would pinch my cheek and loudly announce that I was getting so tall. My mother never rushed my hair. She parted my hair slowly, blew gently on my scalp before each pass and warned me when the heat was coming. “Hold still,” she’d say. She'd been straightening hair for years with the same technique her mother taught her.

Original Photo from Deena Campbell

At night, beauty routines continued. Headscarves were folded and refolded, silk worn thin at the edges from years of tying and untying. Cocoa butter lived on the dresser, its lid permanently slick, its smell warm and familiar in a way that still stops me in my tracks. She rubbed it into my knees and elbows, reminding me not to skip the places everyone else seemed to forget. Red lipstick stood upright in her bag, uncapped only when she meant business, and when she wore it, she stood a little firmer, a little more rooted, as if reminding herself (and the room) that she was a beautiful Black woman who did not need permission to take up space.

As I grew older, my mother eventually taught me how to apply makeup and how to style my hair, but those were techniques, not the real lesson. The way she carried herself spoke louder. She told me my real beauty was the way I move through the world when I’m not trying to be anything other than myself—when I’m not shrinking, correcting or explaining my presence. She taught me to be a proud Black woman, not in words alone, but in posture, ritual and care. Now, decades later, I’m the one being watched.

My daughter is six, all limbs and filled to the brim with questions that arrive every second of the day. She notices everything, like when I wrap my hair at night and when I don’t, why my skin feels so soft, how long it takes me to get ready. She wants her own lotions and insists on applying them to her dolls, leaving fingerprints in jars I’ve learned not to correct. These days, when I part her hair, she tilts her head slightly, trusting me in a way that's so sweet and deeply familiar. 

And just like my mother taught me how to care for myself, I’m teaching my daughter the same way through practice. I’m careful with my hands and even more careful with my words. I straighten her hair sometimes, not because it needs changing, but because she’s curious, and because I want her to understand that her appearance is hers to explore, not something that needs fixing. Above everything else, I want her to be confident in herself, to know that her Blackness is not a trend, not a phase and definitely not a problem to solve.

Her generation won’t discover magazines the way I did, but I’m certain she’ll study images on whatever social platform captures her middle school years. What I want her to know is that beauty doesn’t begin outside of her. The way she takes care of herself matters, but what matters more is that she is proud of who she is, exactly as she is.

Sometimes, when I’m braiding her hair, I catch our reflection and I feel my mother there. Her hands, and the hands before hers. Women who taught what it means to be beautiful by tending carefully to each coil and strand, and by knowing unapologetically that Black is beautiful.

Five days after the awards ceremony, the haircut received official billing on The Tonight Show with Jimmy Fallon. In the now-viral TikTok, Fallon serenades the audience on the guitar, his house band on backup vocals. He calls out all the stars, opening with the cheeky line, “If your hair is feeling bored-y, you can make like Jake Elordi—get a chillet.”

So what is it exactly? Many in the comments were quick to call out their confusion. What makes it different from a regular old mullet? Per hairstylist  Sean Michael, owner of Salon Beau, “The chillet keeps the length and movement people like, but without the full commitment or sharp contrast of a traditional mullet. It leans into softer layers, a shaggy texture and a more blended transition between short and long sections. Because it doesn’t require a dramatic commitment, it’s often the go-to choice for people who want a noticeable change without feeling like they’ve gone too far.”

John Salangsang/Shutterstock

Though the lifespan of the trend is sure to be short-lived, one thing’s for sure: This retro hairstyle fits right in with the nostalgic, offline trend we’re riding. As Michael explains, “It’s effortless, a little undone and less pressure for everything to look sharp and controlled, which is why softer shapes and movement are having such a moment.”

And if one tires of the chillet? It may usher in a new must-have, easy-to-maintain style—take a page from Timmy Chalamet and buzz it all off.

The Break-Up Bob Is Raising Hell in 2026—Here’s How to Get the Look

The one thing you’re always warned not to do with wet hair—straighten it—is actually encouraged with one of Dyson’s most coveted hair tools. In fact, it's the reason why everyone wants the Dyson Airstrait ($550; $400), a wet-to-straightener that's actually designed to safely straighten strands while drying them. Not only does it help save a ton of time in the morning, it also allows you to achieve that sought-after glass hair look—aka a silky-smooth, ultra-glossy style. It’s like having a built-in ColorWow Dream Coat. And right now, the tool is on sale for $150 off at QVC. Take it from someone who uses it (and loves it): You don't want to skip this deal.

Want to know which buzzy products are *really* worth buying? Sign up for our shopping newsletter to uncover our favorite finds.

QVC

A few of my fellow editors and I had the pleasure of testing the Dyson Airstrait for a PureWow100 review. Not only were we impressed by its ability to seamlessly transition from drying to straightening hair using high-pressure airflow, but we also loved how easy it was to use. You see, it works just like a regular straightener, except you can choose between two modes: Wet, with three heat settings for fresh-out-of-the-shower hair, and Dry, with two heat settings and a boost mode for getting silky results.

Whether you have thin, straight hair or thick, curly hair, you can adjust the settings to your needs. The arms even lock, so you can dry your roots. However, my favorite feature is the cool shot mode, which lets you set your style for a long-lasting glass 'do. I also appreciate the auto-pause function, which powers down the tool when you’re not using it, helping you save electricity (take that, Con Edison).

Between the steps it skips, time it saves and ability to supply sleek salon results, the Dyson Airstrait is worth the investment at its regular price—but to find it on sale? That's a rare opportunity worth jumping on. As someone who’s owned this tool for almost three years (and adores its automatic self-cleaning function), I highly recommend adding it to your cart right this minute. Shiny strands in half the time await.

4 Editors Test the New Dyson Airstrait—from Die-Hard Fans to a Complete Newbie

Why You Should Trust Us

PureWow's editors and writers have spent more than a decade shopping online, digging through sales and putting our home goods, beauty finds, wellness picks and more through the wringer—all to help you determine which are actually worth your hard-earned cash. From our PureWow100 series (where we rank items on a 100-point scale) to our painstakingly curated lists of fashion, beauty, cooking, home and family picks, you can trust that our recommendations have been thoroughly vetted for function, aesthetics and innovation. Whether you're looking for travel-size hair dryers you can take on-the-go or women’s walking shoes that won’t hurt your feet, we’ve got you covered.

Perfume is both highly personal and powerful. One whiff of a particular scent and you're instantly transported back to another time or memory. One spritz and you may feel emboldened to take on the day or reenergized for a night on the town. Each fragrance has a personal story attached to it—which is why when I was considering the best perfumes for women, I decided to go straight to fragrance lovers around me. Here, 25 picks that garnered top notes from their wearers, from fresh fragrances like Clinique Happy Eau de Parfum to skin-hugging scents like Glossier You Eau de Parfum.

The Best Perfumes for Women at a Glance

How to Choose the Best Perfume for Women

There's no right or wrong answer when choosing the right perfume for you. Let's face it: They all smell amazing, but everyone's preference is different. Consider heading to Ulta, Sephora or any retailer that offers in-store samples. Let your nose guide you to finding the notes that work for you. Maybe you love florals, fell in love with a fresh scent or prefer a woody fragrance. Thankfully, I compiled 25 all-time favorites above to get you started.

How I Vetted the Best Perfumes for Women

I tapped fellow PureWow editors to share their favorite perfumes and offer reasons for why you (yes, you, dear reader) should get your own. Listen, we don't gatekeep here. From there, I did a deep dive into the scent notes, bottle sizes and retailers where you can find them. Keep reading to discover the best perfumes for women.

Want to know which buzzy products are *really* worth buying? Sign up for our shopping newsletter to uncover our favorite finds.

1. Chanel Coco Eau de Parfum

Sephora

“My Parisian friend always wears Coco, so I finally bought a small bottle for myself. This scent projects power—none of that girlish playfulness of Mademoiselle or Chance. Jasmine, ylang-ylang and orange blossom mingle with patchouli, benzoin and tonka for a commanding presence. A woman who means business!” — Marissa Wu, SEO Editor

2. Snif Me Eau de Toilette

Ulta

"The 2025 version of Clinique Happy? Me by Snif. This new scent is like nothing I've ever tried before. It has similar fruity hints of plum, peach skin and white moss, but is way more interesting and mellow thanks to a musky blend of orris root and sandalwood. To me, it's reminiscent of skin; like the cool girl in school who always smells good, but you have no idea if it's perfume or just her own personal essence. It's simple but mysterious with a smooth, natural finish you can't quite put your finger on." — Catrina Yohay, Executive Managing Editor

3. Juliette Has a Gun Not a Perfume

Sephora

“This is a perfume if you're really sensitive to scent and just want to smell like you, but better. It's a slightly musky, clean scent that reacts to your body chemistry (meaning it will smell slightly different on everyone). Unlike traditional perfumes that mix hundreds of different notes to make a scent, Not a Perfume is made from a single ingredient, which is ideal for people who suffer from migraines like myself.” — Pamela Masin, Director of Affiliate Strategy

4. Parfums de Marly Athénaïs Eau de Parfum

Nordstrom

“This is Parfums de Marly's latest launch. In addition to florals, I also love citrus—bergamot, neroli, yuzu, you name it. The top notes for this one are three, with heart notes of orange blossom and jasmine. PDM retains its signature musk with base notes of tonka bean, vanilla and amber. of all the perfumes I've tried. PDF lasts the longest—sometimes, even after I shower. A 14 hour day has nothing on it, truly.” — Wu

5. Marc Jacobs Daisy Eau de Toilette

Sephora

"I was recently strolling through Sephora killing time and spotted a bottle of Marc Jacobs's Daisy. It was my scent in high school (like many millennial women), so I decided to try a spritz for a trip down memory lane and it immediately reminded me why I loved this scent so much. I ended up buying a mini version and have been getting back into wearing it lately, making my 16-year-old self proud. As someone who is usually pretty scent averse, I love that Daisy is quite delicate. It smells super fresh and vibrant at first, before fading into the sandalwood base, which is divine. And the bottle design is just the right level of kitschy for me—it's cute and fun, but doesn't look too juvenile." — Abby Hepworth, Fashion Editor

6. Odele Signature Hair Scent

Odele

“They just launched hair perfumes but they double as body mists as well. I think it's a great option for folks who are sensitive to the power of an EDP. Expect to reapply these throughout the day—they also layer nicely. I like the oakmoss/ylang-ylang and grapefruit scents. They're delicate, fresh, cool and not overwhelming. Also under $20!” — Wu

7. Diptyque Rose Eau de Parfum

Blue Mercury

"For years I've been searching for the perfect rose perfume and the combo of artichoke and rose in this Diptyque mainstay creates a fresh, fruity scent that reminds me of lychee. I knew I'd picked a winner when I floated past someone on the sidewalk and she was immediately effusive in her compliments. I wear this everywhere— running errands (extra! I know!), to events, on holiday...there's never a bad time for it." — Wu

8. Tom Ford Figue Érotique Eau de Parfum

Sephora

"Figue Érotique is a sultry fragrance centered on fig that’s grounded by smoky woods and musk. It’s a scent that balances citrus with deeper, more sensual undercurrents, making it feel very luxurious. I liken it to a modern interpretation of fig, but with a fun citrus twist." — Deena Campbell, Fashion and Beauty Director-at-large

9. Sol de Janeiro Cheirosa 62 Eau de Parfum

Sephora

“Crafted to be undeniably irresistible, it has a nutty characteristic due the pistachio and almond notes, a warm sweetness from the salted caramel, which is all rounded out by the touches of florals and woods. After years of rave reviews, the brand now offers this scent in many forms—a shower gel, an aluminum-free deodorant, this eau de parfum (which I treasure dearly) and more. It’s truly that impressive.” — Courtney Mason, Editorial Assistant

10. Jo Malone London English Pear & Fressia Cologne

Sephora

"Both of my sisters have worn Jo Malone English Pear & Freesia for years and I adore it on them so much. The top notes are fruity and fresh, without feeling like a literal fruit salad, and the base note is patchouli for a woody finish that mellows the whole thing out in a gorgeous way. It lasts really well without feeling overpowering, too, which is a major bonus. And the packaging is so simple and elegant. No wonder Kate Middleton and Meghan Markle are also fans!" — Hepworth

11. Maison Francis Kurkdjian Kurky Eau de Parfum

Nordstrom

"Inspired by perfumer Francis Kurkdjian’s own nickname and nostalgia for youthful wonder, Kurky opens with bright, juicy accents of raspberry and peach before melting into creamy white musk and sandalwood." — Campbell

12. Diptyque Orpheon Eau de Parfum

Nordstrom

"J'adore my Diptyque Orpheon, which is inspired by Parisian nightlife in the 1960s. It's deep, dark and woody with notes of juniper berry, cedar, tonka bean and jasmine—an overall sexy scent that's perfect for nighttime soirees and romantic date nights. Not to mention, the bottle looks super chic on my vanity." — Stephanie Maida, Senior Commerce Editor

13. Clinique Happy Eau de Parfum

Ulta

"I recently fell back in love with Clinique Happy after finding a travel-sized tube buried deep in one of my makeup bags. It was my go-to back in high school, so the nostalgia brings back so many memories, but mostly it reminds me of my mom and the free beauty gifts with purchase she'd snag at our local Macy's. They always included a vial of this bright, floral, citrusy perfume, and I'd sneak into her room each morning to steal a spritz. Wearing it now just makes me, well, happy." — Yohay

14. Maison Margiela 'REPLICA' Jazz Club Eau de Toilette

Sephora

"This Maison Margiela eau de toilette is the best fall/winter scent ever. The notes of tobacco leaf and warm rum transport me to a cozy and sexy place every dang time. Plus, a little goes a long way so no need to overspray this bad boy. And while the scent is technically unisex, I can assure you that it's not overpowering." — Destinee Scott, Associate Sales and Deals Editor

15. Glossier You Eau de Parfum

Sephora

“Glossier You is another mild-smelling option if strong perfumes trigger migraines. It's hard to describe as it's not supposed to smell strongly like one thing or the other. The closest thing I can think of is sunkissed skin mixed with a little bit of a woodsy note. Again, this fragrance is meant to smell different on everybody, but I've been around different people wearing it and each time I think 'wow, this person smells amazing.' It was the first perfume that I smelled on a friend and immediately bought it the next day (and this was over 5 years ago and I still wear it to this day).” — Masin

16. Henry Rose London 1983 Eau de Parfum

Sephora

"Pulpy fruits are leading 2026 fragrance releases, and I'm so here for it. This fig-forward scent from Michelle Pfeiffer's Henry Rose is one of my favorite perfumes to wear at the moment. With notes of fig, black pepper, musk and soft florals, the fragrance is meant to be worn as a second skin. It's soft and alluring, but impactful enough to be smelled after hours of wear. I love getting whiffs of it as I'm wearing it during the day." — Mason

17. Boy Smells Woodphoria Eau de Parfum

Sephora

"I'm a fragrance fanatic, and while it's nearly impossible to choose an all-time favorite, Woodphoria by Boy Smells might just take the cake. It's gotten me more compliments than any other scent—and I wear fragrance literally every day. As the brand describes it, 'Sun-kissed notes of fig, coconut and jasmine petals play with the intoxicating textures of sandalwood, cedarwood and musks.' It's the perfect combination of woody and floral." — Sarah Stiefvater, Wellness Director

18. DedCool 05 Spring Eau de Parfum

Revolve

"Way more people should be talking about DedCool, in my opinion. The LA-based brand's 05 Spring scent is one of my go-tos, and features top notes of cardamom, star anise and bergamot. This isn't a scent for the faint of heart—it's bold and unique—but it's a game changer for folks (like yours truly) who want their fragrance to make a statement." — Stiefvater

19. Ellis Brooklyn Florist Eau de Parfum

Sephora

“I am a florals girl and I LOVE jasmine and honeysuckle. They remind me alternatively of both my mom's front yard and warm Paris nights. Throw in gardenia and I'm instantly transported back to the Plaza Hotel, which pumps a custom gardenia scent through its vents. EB's Florist is so spot on, floral, feminine, sweet but not syrupy.” — Wu

20. NOYZ 12:00 Eau de Parfum

Ulta

"As a self-proclaimed Fraghead, one of my favorite new fragrances is from the brand NOYZ. The genderless brand creates scent profiles from raw, unfiltered feelings and emotions. Their most recent launch, 12:00, is inspired by stopping time. Whether it’s a.m. or .m., you’re wrapped up in all that comes and goes, but this scent lingers. Full of notes like jasmine petals, raspberry and spun sugar, this floral gourmand perfume is the timeless addition you need to your vanity. It’s bright and poppy while also being grounded and warm. Perfect for any time of day, it’s one that I’ve constantly been reaching for." — Delia Curtis, Assistant Editor

21. Future Society Haunted Rose Eau de Parfum

Nordstrom

"If you’re not trying to smell like anyone else, *this* is the fragrance house to try.  My favorite of the line is Haunted Rose, which smells like strong wilted rose petals strewn across the forest floor. It's a spicy floral with woody notes—much sharper edged than most rose perfumes with the addition of black pepper and dark, leathery saffron. It’s also softened by notes of passionfruit and ambroxan. I am nearing my last drop of Haunted Rose and I might just shed a tear." — Curtis

22. Merit Retrospect L'Extrait de Parfum

Merit

"Upon my first sniff, those pear and bergamot notes came in bright and sharp with the soft notes of violet and jasmine revealing themselves as it began to dry—and the dry down is where it's really at. When it finally settles, you’re left with a powdery aroma of vanilla and musk that lingers on your person for hours. I’ve tried to find the right words to describe the true uniqueness of this fragrance for days now and still have come up short. Its elusiveness is almost reminiscent of the white mystery-flavored Airhead candy I ate as a kid, which I still, to this day, do not know the actual flavor of. Is this perfume a floral? Is it a musk? That’s for your nose to decide." — Mason

23. Dolce & Gabbana Velvet Desert Oud Eau de Parfum

Neiman Marcus

"I'm usually a vanilla fragrance kind of gal, so this one took me completely by surprised. The luxury fragrance screams one-way ticket to Italy. With notes of tobacco, saffron and dark woods, I feel so fancy spritzing this on. I'll admit it's a big price tag, but it's so worth it for a night out or even a trip to the office." — Chelsea Candelario, Beauty & Cultures Editor

24. Billie Eilish Eau de Parfum

Ulta

"If I'm not raving about the Fenty fragrance then I'm talking someone's ear off about this Billie Eilish perfume. Seriously, don't knock celebrity perfumes—this one has an amazing scent that I've been wearing for a couple of years now. It has a nice mix of vanilla, musks and sugared petals. The singer (and her team) knew what they were doing with this gourmand fragrance. Also the bottle is gorgeous and looks fantastic on my dresser." — Candelario

25. Burberry Brit For Her Eau de Parfum

Ulta

"Without a doubt, my pick is Burberry Brit. I feel like it's a classic. My older sister used to wear it and I'd always steal it from her. One year, my mom finally got it for me for Christmas and I've had the same bottle for years. I wear it on special occasions and weekend outings."—Alyson Owens, Director of Social Strategy

I Tested the $375 Parfums de Marly Palatine for a Week—Here Are My Honest Thoughts

Why You Should Trust Us

PureWow's editors and writers have spent more than a decade shopping online, digging through sales and putting our home goods, beauty finds, wellness picks and more through the wringer—all to help you determine which are actually worth your hard-earned cash. From our PureWow100 series (where we rank items on a 100-point scale) to our painstakingly curated lists of fashion, beauty, cooking, home and family picks, you can trust that our recommendations have been thoroughly vetted for function, aesthetics and innovation. Whether you're looking for travel-size hair dryers you can take on-the-go or women’s walking shoes that won’t hurt your feet, we’ve got you covered.

Valentine’s Day is only a few weeks away, but there’s still time to find that perfect gift (no matter who you’re shopping for). After reviewing Bath & Body Works’s entire V-Day collection, I can say with confidence that there’s a range of scents to satisfy everyone’s taste. A handful, in particular, are really worth seeking out. From sweet returning favorites to a new seductive cologne for men, here are six items to snag from Bath & Body Works Valentine’s Day collection, just to save you some time shopping.

The 62 Best Valentine’s Day Gifts for Her That’ll Dazzle, Wow and Delight, from $2 to $1,000

1. Strawberry Pound Cake Fine Fragrance Mist

Bath & Body Works

Strawberry Pound Cake is bakery-sweet goodness in a bottle. Boasting notes of fresh strawberries, golden shortcake and whipped cream, there’s a reason why it’s now a part of the brand’s year-round lineup. It truly smells how it sounds. Think of a soft, yummy shortcake blanketed by vanilla whipped cream and tart strawberries. Even better? It’s available in all forms of body and home care. I’ve purchased it several times over—for myself and others. If you’re not sure where to start, this fragrance is always a hit.

2. Sweetheart Cherry Ultimate Hydration Body Cream

Bath & Body Works

Returning for another season of love is Sweetheart Cherry, a sweet and nutty blend of wild cherry, crushed pistachio and whipped vanilla. Rather than being tart and fruity, this scent is warm and comforting. Layer this hydrating body cream with its complementing fine fragrance mist, and you’ve got yourself a match made in heaven.

3. Covered In Roses Eau de Parfum

Bath & Body Works

Who doesn’t want to be covered in roses for Valentine’s Day? Reminiscent of soft rose petals, this eau de parfum is romance in a bottle featuring notes of ruby berries, sugared rosebuds and blush amber. To me, Bath & Body Works makes exceptional rose fragrances, and that’s coming from someone who doesn’t gravitate to florals. Trust me, it’s well worth the splurge.

4. Nocturnal Rose Cologne

Bath & Body Works

The guy in your life would appreciate a new cologne, just saying. Praised for its addictive notes of black pepper, wild rose and cedarwood, it’s a bit on the darker side, and I would compare it to the brand’s best-selling Noir fragrance. The hint of sweetness really pushes it over the edge, and I think it’s perfect for a V-Day date night. You may want to gift this one early…

5. Chocolate Covered Berries 3-Wick Candle

Bath & Body Works

A candle always makes a great gift, if you ask me. This scent is one of my favorites from the collection, with notes of rich milk chocolate, sweet berries and white chocolate drizzle. It truly does smell like delectable chocolate-covered berries without being overly saccharine.

6. Tear-Away Lip Gloss Gift Set

Bath & Body Works

Have a Galentine’s soiree planned? This tear-away lip gloss set is perfect for spreading love among your gal pals. Meant to ‘tear and share,’ it includes four shades of Mentha lip gloss—Vanillamint, bare mint, magenta mint and shimmer tint pink. They also feature adorable V-day graphics and the option to write a little love note to your giftee. How cute!

I'm a Former Bath and Body Works Employee & These Are the 13 Most Underrated Scents I'd Recommend to Anyone

While fall may be behind us, I, for one, am seriously missing my pumpkin spice lattes. But luckily, I don't have to wait for the leaves to change to enjoy some pumpkin in the form of skincare products. Why yes, that is indeed a thing, and one of the best among them is the Peter Thomas Roth Pumpkin Enzyme mask, which has become a sensation on TikTok and beyond.

Even so, I’m not always sold on viral beauty products as I suffer from dry, sensitive skin that reacts poorly to most formulas, but the rave reviews of this exfoliating mask have totally won me over. Even more tempting is the fact that the product is currently on sale for a major steal right now at QVC, where you can snag not one, but *two* of the 5.1-ounce jars for just $55—a huge win considering the price of two would be $120 if purchased separately.

What’s more, first-time customers at QVC can also get $20 off purchases of $40 or more using the code WELCOME20. That means you could potentially scoop up this set for a mere $35 if you’re new to the site.

Want to know which buzzy products are *really* worth buying? Sign up for our shopping newsletter to uncover our favorite finds.

Aside from its rich, thick formula and pumpkin-y scent that instantly draws you in, this product is beloved for its effective exfoliating abilities. Per the brand, it’s formulated with a winning combination of pumpkin enzyme, alpha hydroxy acid and small bits of aluminum oxide crystals, all of which work in tandem to clear off dead cells, brighten your complexion and leave you with smoother, more even-toned skin. It even purports to help with fine lines and wrinkles—say less.

The application is simple as well, or as my fourth grade music teacher would say, “A little dab will do ya.” All you have to do is take a small amount of the product and massage it into your skin using circular motions (wet your fingertips beforehand). The brand recommends leaving on a thin layer for between three and seven minutes depending on your personal skin sensitivity level (though some reviewers leave it on a bit longer), and from there all you have to do is rinse the product thoroughly. You only need to use it once or twice a week, and users say you'll start seeing results in no time.

QVC

Don’t believe me? Just take it from this happy buyer who gave it a 5-star rating. “I use this product at least twice a week. I leave it on for ten minutes before rinsing it off in the shower, and my skin has never looked better!" Another longtime user of the mask shared similar sentiments, writing, “I’ve been using this pumpkin scrub for many years, and was introduced to it by somebody who gave me a high-priced facial. I use it two times a week and my skin is flawless!”

Better-than-ever skin, a delicious autumn scent and a huge discount that gets you *two* jars for less than the price of one? Oh yeah, I'll be adding this Peter Thomas Roth duo to my cart before it sells out—and so should you.

I Tried Grace & Stella Energizing Eye Masks PureWow Readers Love & Here’s What I *Really* Think

Why You Should Trust Us

PureWow's editors and writers have spent more than a decade shopping online, digging through sales and putting our home goods, beauty finds, wellness picks and more through the wringer—all to help you determine which are actually worth your hard-earned cash. From our PureWow100 series (where we rank items on a 100-point scale) to our painstakingly curated lists of fashion, beauty, cooking, home and family picks, you can trust that our recommendations have been thoroughly vetted for function, aesthetics and innovation. Whether you're looking for travel-size hair dryers you can take on-the-go or women’s walking shoes that won’t hurt your feet, we’ve got you covered.

Of the many, many beauty products that make the rounds on TikTok, only a chosen few ever really reach icon status. Among them, IMO, is the Summer Fridays Dream lip oil. Along with a bunch of creators and makeup obsessives, it counts the modern progenitor of "old money" style, Sofia Richie Grainge, as one of its fans, so you know off the bat that it creates a look that's equal parts understated and luxurious.

Luckily, though, you don't need generational wealth to afford a tube—especially now that you can shop it on rare sale at Amazon. Originally priced at $26, the viral Summer Fridays lip oil is currently marked down to just $18 at the retailer—its lowest price since Black Friday. If you're planning out your date night look for Valentine's Day or need some help locking in moisture through the rest of the winter, I'd take this opportunity to stock up.

Want to know which buzzy products are *really* worth buying? Sign up for our shopping newsletter to uncover our favorite finds.

The Dream lippie boasts a true dream team of vegan ingredients that are shown to nourish, moisturize and soften lips, from avocado, shea and jojoba oils to squalane and vitamin E. The product also comes in a range of shades that, though subtle, supply a hint of tint—along with the perfect touch of glossy shine, sans any of the stickiness you might expect.

Amazon

"From the moment I swipe it on, it feels buttery smooth; not sticky, not heavy, just super comfortable. It [leaves] your lips looking plump without that gross, tacky gloss feel," writes one Amazon shopper. Another 5-star reviewer adds, "The lightweight, non-sticky formula delivers the perfect sheer wash of color for a natural glow."

In a nutshell: This product is just what you need for a natural-looking, kissable pout, whether you swipe it on over a more pigmented lipstick or wear it bare. And since you can score it for a whopping 30 percent off, there's never been a better time to try it (or, if you're already a fan, restock your collection).

It's Chapped Lip Season—This Meghan Markle and Jennifer Aniston-Loved Product Can Save You (and Your Pout)

Why You Should Trust Us

PureWow's editors and writers have spent more than a decade shopping online, digging through sales and putting our home goods, beauty finds, wellness picks and more through the wringer—all to help you determine which are actually worth your hard-earned cash. From our PureWow100 series (where we rank items on a 100-point scale) to our painstakingly curated lists of fashion, beauty, cooking, home and family picks, you can trust that our recommendations have been thoroughly vetted for function, aesthetics and innovation. Whether you're looking for travel-size hair dryers you can take on-the-go or women’s walking shoes that won’t hurt your feet, we’ve got you covered.

I’m Only 25 and I Absolutely Hate My Neck—and No, You Can’t Talk Me Out of It

The Problem

Droopy eyelids, or as it’s known clinically, acquired blepharoptosis. It’s the way your face looks if your upper eyelid hangs low, aka low-lying eyelids. By contrast, if you can see the whites of your eyes above your retina, or lots of the upper curve of your retina, that’s a perky eyelid and an open, alert-looking eye. Droopy eyelids like mine droop way into the retina, looking narrow and somewhat sleepy. The effect of a low-lying lid can be sexy—look, I’m squinting in a come-hither way at you!—but more likely, it reads as haggard when I look back at myself in the mirror. Acquired ptosis is often a later-in-life occurrence, since that upper lid gets weaker with age.

The Solution

Original Image by Dana Dickey

Upneeq (oxymetazoline hydrochloride ophthalmic solution), a one-percent solution, is a prescription eyedrop used to treat acquired blepharoptosis (low-lying lids) in adults. Since low-lying lids can be caused by muscle weakness, which is no big deal, but also can be a symptom of serious conditions such as stroke and/or brain aneurysm, Horner syndrome, myasthenia gravis, loss of the ability to move eye muscles, eye infection and eye tumors, the FDA requires a doctor’s prescription to take the medicine. It’s a simple one-drop-in-each-eye treatment, and the eye-opening effect lasts up to eight hours.

My Review

Original Images by Dana Dickey

Honestly, I was a bit hesitant to put some strange drops in my eyes, since we only get this one pair of peepers in our lifetime. However, the online intake form for Upneeq linked me to the telehealth provider SkinSolutions.MD, where I answered a battery of questions about my health, vision and medical history for $15, a fee that was subtracted from subsequent Uqneeq orders. I had no history of stroke or eye trouble, so I was cleared to get my trial vials of the eye drops, which cost as little as $4.50 per application.

I pulled down my lower lid, put in one drop per eye, being careful not to touch the single-application vial to my skin, then waited. I’d read that between 1 and 5 percent of users experienced complications, which might include eye inflammation, eye redness, dry eye, blurred vision, eye pain at time of use, eye irritation and headache, so I tried to relax and waited. I looked in the mirror and thought, hmm, no big wide eyes yet, but no stroke either. While I waited, I turned to Reddit to maybe scare myself now that I’d already dosed.

After reading about users who experienced dry mouth, nosebleeds and in one case, a person who wrote “after using for a long time my eyes now feel like pressure squishing them.” I was duly alarmed. But then I looked in the mirror and wow! Suddenly, my entire face looked brighter and I appeared—even to myself—to look really happy since my eyes were now super open. I’m glad I took pictures before and after, since the effect wasn’t so different as to be shocking, but I definitely looked…better. Like I'd had a full night’s sleep or had put on eye makeup.

My Takeaway

My eyes opened a little bigger over the next hour, then stayed that way all day. I didn’t have any lasting side effects, and after a night’s sleep, it was just me and my low-lying lids, facing the day together. While I fully appreciated Upneeq and its effects, I’m saving my single-vial drops for special occasions when I want to look my best, including events when there will be lots of photos taken. I’m pretty conservative when it comes to medicines or injectables, so I won’t be using Upneeq every day. But I’m glad to have it on hand for when I want to look a little more alert than usual.

The 8 Best Microcurrent Devices to Buy in 2025, Tested and Ranked by PureWow Editors

You know the feeling. A week spent out in the sun (with SPF, of course), throwing on your favorite swimsuit, jumping into pools and walking on the beach, salty air running through your hair. Bliss. But then, upon your return home, you find that your locks are now dull, faded, brittle and dry. Welcome to “vacation hair.” That’s the bad news. The good news? It’s 100 percent reparable. Below, I spoke with two hairstylists who advise on key ingredients and products that can help restore your hair—it’ll be vacation-ready again in no time.

Meet the Experts

• Chaz Dean is a celebrity hairstylist, colorist and the founder of WEN hair and body care line. Dean has over 25 years of experience, and his salon has served the likes of Ming-Na Wen, Nicole Murphy, Gilles Marini, Alyssa Milano, Gwyneth Paltrow and others. WEN is also the winner of multiple QVC Beauty Awards.
• Devin Graciano is a hair stylist and head of product development at Goldie Locks, a luxury hair care brand that focuses on moisture and hydration for extensions and natural hair. 

What Causes Vacation Hair?

When your hair gets excessive sun/chlorine/salt exposure, that can lead to faded color and brittle strands. “We’re really talking about a triple threat to the hair’s protective barrier,” Graciano says. “Your hair has a natural lipid layer and cuticle that keeps moisture in and damage out. UV rays, pool chemicals and saltwater all chip away at that defense in different ways.”

Graciano explains that UV rays break down proteins in the hair shaft, while chlorine strips oils and saltwater dehydrates. That’s why your hair can start out feeling soft (thanks to the broken proteins), then turn frayed and rough.

Hair-Saving Ingredients

There are plenty of hair-saving ingredients that can restore your strands. Dean recommends jojoba, argan and Abyssinian oils, which are heavier and can nourish and hydrate your hair. Avoiding lathering shampoos is also a good idea, as it can strip your hair when it needs hydration the most.

In addition to argan oil, Graciano would also reach for coconut oil, aloe vera extract, marshmallow root extract and agave. She cites coconut oil as a great source of moisture without heaviness, while also boosting shine. It’s best for dry, coarse and/or curly hair. If your hair is frizzy, marshmallow root extract can give your hair what she calls a “silky slip,” so it’s easier to detangle. Agave functions as a humectant, helping to attract and retain moisture, while aloe vera can sooth an irritated scalp.

Editors’ and Experts’ Picks

There are tons of products to choose from, and everyone’s hair is different. As long as you use the experts’ ingredients guidelines when shopping, you can experiment with what works best for you. Need a starting point? I asked PureWow editors, Graciano and Dean to give their recommendations below.

1. Fully Fyne Hair Treatment Mask

Fully Fyne

PureWow Vice President of Editorial Candace Davison tells me she swears on this hair mask. “It's the only one I can use on my super fine hair that moisturizes and tames frizz (especially right after I've gotten highlights done) without weighing it down and looking greasy/stringy.”

2. Bella Spirit Revitalizing Treatment Oil

Bella Spirit

If you want a salon-level treatment, Dean crafts a luxe hair oil through his haircare line, Wen. It’s infused with essential oils, botanicals and vitamin E. You can use it as an overnight treatment, and it will pull double duty rebalancing your scalp and moisturizing your hair.

3. Olaplex Weightless Volumizing Hydration Hair Mask

Olaplex

Emily Brozyna, PureWow’s associate director of social strategy, loves the Olaplex Weightless Volumizing Hydration mask. “I’ve been using it about once a week after shampooing, and it truly makes my hair noticeably softer and more hydrated without weighing it down like some of the more heavy-duty masks out there,” she says. The cuticle-sealing mask is formulated for fine to medium hair, featuring the brand’s Biomimetic Cuticle Technology. It promises to boost shine, reduce breakage and support length retention.

4. Goldie Locks Signature Conditioner

Goldie Locks

Graciano recommends Goldie Lock’s Signature Conditioner, which she says will help lock in hydration, detangle and add shine. I’ve been using this for a couple months and noticed a marked richness in the formula’s texture, which felt creamier than all the other conditioners I’ve tested. (And there have been many.) The ingredients include vanilla bean (soothing antioxidant), white truffle (fatty acids to support renewal) and marula oil (moisture and antioxidant).

5. Nexxus KERAPHIX Liquid Crystallizer

Amazon

“I just tried this latest launch from Nexxus and noticed immediate results after a blowout,” says PureWow Senior Commerce Editor Stephanie Maida. “It's formulated to rebuild hair's protein bonds via liquid crystal amino acids and help strengthen it against future damage, whether that's heat or coloring. One of the things I love most about it is that you can use it on wet or dry hair, so I can run some through my day three 'do to revive dull ends.”

6. Briogeo Don’t Despair, Repair! Hair Mask

Sephora

Over the last few years, I’ve ramped up my heat styling. That’s led to a ton of split ends, and my hair often looks and feels dry. Over the last year, I’ve been applying Briogeo’s Don’t Despair, Repair! mask pre-shower and have found it immensely helpful in restoring my hair to its original texture. I don’t do it often, but when I do, it’s like an instant plumping boost. Its hero ingredients are rose hip oil, vitamin B and algae extract, which serve to strengthen and repair keratin, moisturize, nourish and control frizz.

The 12 Best Heat Protectants for Fine Hair

The ‘80s, the ‘90s, the 2000s—the nostalgia trend cycle comes for the heydays of us all. I just didn’t think we’d be reliving the 2010s this soon. Alas, I must not have been keeping track. After all, it’s officially been an entire decade since the ball dropped on 2016—fair game for a semi-ironic revival. And if the posts all over our Instagram feeds are any indication, we’re already in the midst of it, from the fashion to the beauty looks that defined the era.

Allow me to jog your memory. ‘Twas the year before TikTok hit the U.S., and the year Snapchat dropped its famous dog filter. Instagram Face (the precursor of Love Island Face) reigned supreme, an approach to makeup that was big, bold and dramatic, designed to look good (and pre-filtered) on your perfectly curated IG grid. Pouts were matte and overdrawn, created (or inspired) by Kylie Jenner’s now-iconic Lip Kits. Brows were dark and defined, courtesy of Anastasia Beverly Hills’s Dipbrow pomade. Contours were baked, cut creases were sharp and everything was intensely pigmented. It was a far cry from the subtle, more natural-looking “clean girl aesthetic” that came into favor in the early 2020s.

Now, with millennial wistfulness coinciding with Gen Z’s romanticization of the generation that came before it, a 2016 renaissance is coming for our routines.

Meet the Expert

Beauty guru and entrepreneur Lilly Ghalichi is the founder and CEO of Lilly Lashes, a line of luxury false lashes, as well as the co-founder of Hairtamin hair-growth vitamins and Bumpology body butter.

@NikoTyler / Backgrid

The first signs of a 2016 revival came courtesy of Kylie Jenner herself, who celebrated the ten-year anniversary of Kylie Cosmetics in October by stepping out with matte lips, teal dip-dyed hair and, later, bubblegum pink strands, all reminiscent of her “King Kylie” era (an edgy social media persona she leaned into throughout the 2010s). A slew of beauty gurus also started turning back the clock on social media. This past summer, makeup artist Mikayla Nogueira shared a TikTok tutorial on how to make 2016 glam feel fresh, while beauty creator Sean Anthony—who missed the boat the first time around, given that he was 9 years old—recently demonstrated the look for his followers, concealer triangles and all.

You can already see the comeback in action on some of 2026’s buzziest celebrities. Oscar nominee Teyana Taylor, for one, went full 2016 glam for her Golden Globe appearance (and big win), while Sabrina Carpenter has been known to combine bold brows and matte lips with flutter-worthy babydoll lashes—the latter of which are set for a big return, even for those of us who aren’t performing to sold-out arenas.

“2016 glam is back and better, especially when it comes to lashes,” says Lilly Ghalichi, an OG glamazon and founder of beauty kit staple, Lilly Lashes. “Think spiky, dramatic, layered sets with a flared finish that scream main character energy.” Ten years later, though, the girls are doing things a little differently. “The drama is back, but elevated. Lash glue? We don’t know her. Glam girls are locked in on self-adhesive for that Miami-level drama without the mess,” she continues.

While Ghalichi has also noticed the (re-)embrace of colorful, creative makeup (“think crystal accents along the lash line, outer-corner gems or under-eye sparkle”), she adds that, this time around, the techniques are more refined: “I'm seeing throwbacks done smarter: sleek glossy lids that look like glass, not sticky; sheer bronze warmth like you just stepped off a private beach; thin, pigmented liner with a soft flick; skin that glows like highlighter meets the sun.” Nogueira echoed this in her video discussing the updated aesthetic, ditching fully matte skin in favor of more luminous foundation and glowy blush, creating a complexion that also looks good in real life, not just through a Snapchat filter.

But whether you’re trying out a 2016 beat for the first time or taking it for yet another spin around the block, you’ll want to go big when it comes to the three main focal points of the era: brows, eyes and lips. So, prepare to paint your pout, whip out the rainbow palette and get those falsies ready—the understated look is so 2022.

I’m a Beauty Editor—These Are the 4 Trends Defining 2026

Why You Should Trust Us

PureWow's editors and writers have spent more than a decade shopping online, digging through sales and putting our home goods, beauty finds, wellness picks and more through the wringer—all to help you determine which are actually worth your hard-earned cash. From our PureWow100 series (where we rank items on a 100-point scale) to our painstakingly curated lists of fashion, beauty, cooking, home and family picks, you can trust that our recommendations have been thoroughly vetted for function, aesthetics and innovation. Whether you're looking for travel-size hair dryers you can take on-the-go or women’s walking shoes that won’t hurt your feet, we’ve got you covered.

Joanna Gaines is the doyenne of home design. Her long-running show, Fixer Upper, returned last year with a fresh update and much enthusiasm. And if her Waco empire wasn't enough, Gaines also launched a collaboration with Barbie and—what else?—her dream house, which was Magnolia-inspired. Somehow, the mom of five and entrepreneur always looks flawless, even with her hectic schedule. I've always wondered what was in her beauty bag, and recently, she dished on a long-time favorite.

Amazon

In a recent interview with The Strategist, Gaines gave a shoutout to Lancôme's Blush Subtil—an under-$35 workhorse that has thousands of reviews and an average 4.7-star rating across retailers like Nordstrom and Ulta.

"I don’t leave the house without my blush— I keep an extra in my purse and one at the office," she told The Strategist. "I reapply color around 1 p.m., and it resets me for the second half of the day. It feels equivalent to that midday cup of coffee but for my face."

The powder formula is oil-free and comes in 15 colors, from deep berry and cheery fuchsia to neutrals like Cedar Rose and Miel Glace. If you're someone who appreciates a compact and/or is always on the go like Gaines, you'll appreciate the included mini brush. The brand promises that the blush is silky, blendable and ideal for mature, acne-prone and sensitive skin.

Coffee for my face? Sign me up.

Joanna Gaines’s Candid Interview Speaks Volumes About Her Marriage to Chip

That mindset is exactly why she partnered with IT Cosmetics on the launch of its new Do It All Sheer Tint Face Balm, a clinically tested, 4-in-1 tint designed to deliver glow while improving the look of your natural complexion over time. Infused with skincare ingredients like collagen and peptides, it's a product that blurs the line between makeup and skincare—something Garth says fits perfectly into her current routine.

I chatted with Garth about her skin and beauty routines, and she got quite candid about everything from makeup mistakes to why the phrase, “less is more,” finally makes sense.

Carl Timpone/BFA.com/Shutterstock

Are you more of a one-product person or a skincare-layering type?

Oh, I’m definitely a layerer. I love skincare and I like rotating products. I’m always trying new things, so everything gets its moment. 

Is there a beauty trend from your past you wouldn’t mind seeing again?

Yes, super thin eyebrows! I know everyone regrets over-tweezing, but there’s something nostalgic about pencil-thin brows that takes me right back to the ’90s. I wouldn’t do it again now that my brows are healthy—but I loved that look.

Do you have a beauty rule that you’ve officially retired?

For me, it’s the idea that you need full makeup to look put together. I want my skin to look like skin. I want to look my age—and be proud of it. Most days, it’s just a little lip color, some blush and something sheer to even things out.

Do you have any makeup tips you’ve learned from pros that you swear by?

Don’t be afraid of blush. I used to avoid it because I’d seen it done badly, but when it’s done right, it brings your whole face to life.

Christopher Peterson/Shutterstock

What’s your biggest beauty pet peeve?

Pilling—when skincare and makeup don’t play nicely together. That’s why I love products like this balm. You don’t have to worry about things beading up or separating. It’s one and done.

What makes you feel instantly put together?

A natural glow. I used to powder everything within an inch of its life, thinking I was setting my makeup. Now I want my skin to look alive; even with its imperfections. I’ve earned this skin.

Finish this sentence: Good skin days make me feel…

Vibrant.

Do you have any advice for women who feel stuck in their makeup routine?

Be inspired by what you see. There are so many great tutorials now—on TikTok, Instagram, everywhere. Find someone whose look you admire and take the risk. It’s always good to refresh your routine and try something new.

Exclusive: Jennie Garth Confesses Her #1 Regret About Playing Kelly on the OG ‘90210’

This is the time of year when I stop experimenting and start paying attention to what actually pulls its weight in my skincare routine. Winter has a way of exposing every weak spot—from dryness that shows up out of nowhere to makeup that suddenly refuses to behave. After weeks of cold mornings, biting winds, and overheated rooms, my skin made it very clear what it needed: formulas that could keep up without causing more problems.

These newbies rose to the occasion. Each product earned its place by doing something essential, whether that was cleansing without stripping, locking in moisture, or keeping my face looking smooth and hydrated when winter tried its hardest to humble me.

Aveda Micro-Purifying Cleansing Mousse

Original Image by Deena Campbell

Cleansing is hands down my favorite part of my skincare routine, and I’m particular about it. I want something that feels comforting but actually works. This micro-purifying cleansing mousse starts as a cushiony mousse and melts into a foam that feels like I’m washing my face with a cloud. That said, fair warning: the citrus-herbal scent is a bit of a mind-fuck in the best way—it smells so similar to the haircare collection that my brain is briefly like, wait…am I washing my face with shampoo?

Tatcha The Longevity Youth Restoring Cream for Elasticity & Brightness

Original Video by Deena Campbell

If you’re thinking long-term with your skincare, the new Tatcha Longevity Memory Cream has you in mind. I’ve been a longtime fan of Tatcha (the brand just seems to get everything right!) and this launch is no exception. Inspired by Okinawa’s nuchi-gusui philosophy, the formula is powered by the Okinawa Cellescence Complex, a blend of herbs and plants designed to support skin longevity. It targets low-grade inflammation that leads to dryness while Nonapeptide-1 helps support natural ceramides and bio-fermented hyaluronic acid locks in hydration.

HigherDOSE Red Light Showerhead Filter

Original Image by Deena Campbell

I’m a Black girl who isn’t into rain showerheads (natural hair problems), so it takes a lot for a shower upgrade to impress me. But the new HigherDOSE Red Light Shower Filter actually got my attention. Instead of just blasting water from above, it turns your regular shower into a wellness moment by pairing warming 660nm red light with a serious, 10-stage filtration system that cuts down chlorine, heavy metals, VOCs and microplastics. The red light boosts circulation and supports skin and scalp health, while the filtered water feels noticeably less stripping. The ultra red light is also mood-boosting when I need a pick-me-up after a grueling day.

Farmacy Bright On Daily AHA Foam Exfoliator

Original Video by Deena Campbell

I’m usually cautious with chemical exfoliators, but this one surprised me. It’s an instant foam that feels more like a gentle cleanser than an acid treatment, so there’s no tingling or irritation. My skin looks brighter after a few uses, and I love that it’s gentle enough to use daily without throwing my barrier off, which is especially beneficial in the harsh January weather.

Kiehl’s Ultra Facial Meltdown Recovery Cream

Original Image by Deena Campbell

Every winter, my skin tells on me. One brisk walk outside and my face is offended by the wind because I haven't moisturized enough. That was until Kiehl’s Ultra Facial Meltdown Recovery Cream entered my routine. I put it on before heading out the door and again at night, and it’s made a noticeable difference in how my skin handles winter. Less redness, less dryness, and way fewer moments of “why does my face hurt?”

Prada Beauty Micro-Correcting Blurring Concealer with Peptides

Original Video by Deena Campbell

I judge concealers hardest in inclement weather, because that’s when they show their true colors. Prada’s Micro-Correcting Blurring Concealer with Peptides passed the test. It melts in, doesn’t cling to dry patches, and the squalane keeps my skin barrier strong enough to survive cold temps and indoor heat without looking too parched.

What Deena’s Loving: Our Beauty Director’s Picks of the Month

Enter: the Breast Rest. Or Mam Hand. Or, just straight-up calling it what it is: a plain ol' boob grab.

Demonstrated by the likes of Kylie Jenner, Kendall Jenner and Hailey Bieber (aka the Gen Z Holy Trinity), this pose involves the seemingly careless, but totally conspicuous placement of one's hand on their chest, as if they were mid-gasp or covering up a wardrobe malfunction. There's also some slight cupping involved. Hmm, curious.

Aissaoui Nacer/Shutterstock

The younger Jenner did it in multiple photos alongside her beau Timothée Chalamet at the 2026 Critics Choice Awards (and was even seen Mam Hand-ing on the red carpet as early as last May), while the elder Jenner and Bieber both did the move in a group shot at a 2026 Golden Globes after-party. Stars like Dua Lipa and Millie Bobby Brown have also given it a go.

My question is, why?

As a teapot-posing millennial, I definitely get the struggle of figuring out what to do with your arms and hands in a photo. But other than preventing a nip-slip (which doesn't seem to be the issue in these instances), I don't understand the instinct to go straight for the bosom. Is it to show off their jewelry? Their manicure? Or is the answer the most obvious one—to draw attention to their cleavage? It certainly does a great job in that regard.

While I'm normally down to embrace the changing tides brought on by the younger generation (I've fully adopted ruched crew socks and haven't looked back), this trending pose feels a little too risqué for my taste. Even if it is done in the most casual manner, I can't really imagine a situation in which I'd want to grab my own tata for a picture, let alone share it to a public audience. Is this it? Am I officially an old prude?

Even if that were true, I am a feminist, and very much pro-boob. So if the girls want to cup their busts in front of the camera this year, I'll cheer them on—even if I am scratching my head on the sidelines.

I’m a Photographer and Here Are My 3 Best Tips for Looking Good in Pictures (Plus 4 Rules for Avoiding Awkwardness)

Why You Should Trust Us

PureWow's editors and writers have spent more than a decade shopping online, digging through sales and putting our home goods, beauty finds, wellness picks and more through the wringer—all to help you determine which are actually worth your hard-earned cash. From our PureWow100 series (where we rank items on a 100-point scale) to our painstakingly curated lists of fashion, beauty, cooking, home and family picks, you can trust that our recommendations have been thoroughly vetted for function, aesthetics and innovation. Whether you're looking for travel-size hair dryers you can take on-the-go or women’s walking shoes that won’t hurt your feet, we’ve got you covered.

If you’ve spent even a few minutes scrolling the makeup side of TikTok, you’ve definitely seen that look—the softly luminous skin, the gently blurred liner and pillowy lips that look extremely kissable. That’s the Nina Park effect, created by a celebrity makeup artist who is named (duh) Nina Park and has quietly become the industry’s go-to for unfussy beauty looks. 

Over the years, Park has refined this signature aesthetic on celebrities like Lily-Rose Depp and Greta Lee, but what truly sets her apart is her philosophy that makeup should enhance, not overpower. She treats the face like a sculpture, without masking it with heavy foundation. Nothing looks too done. Instead, everything works in harmony with what you have.

If you remember, that sensibility was on full display when she created Margaret Qualley’s look using Chanel makeup for the 2025 Oscars. In a press release, Park described the vision as “glamour that feels timeless—very French-girl chic, à la Inès de La Fressange meets Jane Birkin.” And, truly, that one line captures her entire approach and is exactly why this look is poised to be everywhere in 2026. If you’re looking to recreate the Nina Park effect yourself, start with these simple steps.

How to Pull Off the Nina Park Makeup Look

1. Start With Skin

Every look in the Nina Park universe starts with skin that looks real and softly luminous. Instead of piling on coverage, Park builds makeup from the base, using lightweight foundations and concealers that blend into skin like second skin rather than a mask. Pro tip: Apply foundation sparingly and blend outward from the center of the face.

2. Keep the Sculpting Soft

Forget sharp wings or overly defined eyes. Park’s approach to liner and shadow is blurred with just enough definition to shape the eye without looking harsh. Pro tip: Keep liner close to the lash line; no dramatic flicks.

3. Blur Lips

This is where the Nina Park look really comes to life. Instead of crisp edges, lips are diffused for that just-kissed effect that makes them look fuller. The trick is tapping the product in with your finger and resisting the urge to overdefine. Pro tip: Apply lip color to the center of the lips, then move outward.

4. Create Fluffy Brows

Brows should look lifted, full and always touchable. Park’s brows have movement and softness, which keeps the whole face looking youthful. A little fill where needed, brushed up and out, keeps everything natural. Pro tip: Use short, hair-like strokes instead of drawing a full shape.

I’m a Beauty Editor—These Are the 4 Trends Defining 2026

Truthfully, I'm always open to trying anything at least once when it comes to channelling more positive energy into my life and manifesting abundance. Which is why when, a few weeks ago, Ascention Parfums reached out to me to try out its fragrances made specifically to aid with manifestation, I immediately said yes. Hey, I had nothing to lose and only the possibility of a new favorite scent to gain.

Intrigued? Keep on reading to find out how these scents can raise your vibration—and maybe even manifest a successful 2026.

Want to know which buzzy products are *really* worth buying? Sign up for our shopping newsletter to uncover our favorite finds.

Ulta

To start out, I scheduled a 60-minute coaching session with the brand's founder, Greta Fitz, during which we discussed areas of my life where I felt stuck. She even tapped into my energy to help me determine what, exactly, I should be focusing on to achieve my goals. At the end of the session, Fitz offered two fragrance recommendations that she thought would be best for me, along with an affirmation to start practicing right away while I waited for them to arrive.

When my "scent spells" finally made their way to my doorstep, I immediately took them out of the box and sprayed them on. Upon first sniff, I loved just how unique and complex the blends were (without being too overwhelming).

You can take a quiz on Ascention's website to discover your best match based on your olfactory preferences and new year goals. But if you'd rather just jump right in and give the perfumes a go, you can shop them all at Ulta.

Choose between themes of courage, enchantment, love, inspiration, detox, prosperity and peace, complete with corresponding crystals to "power" every bottle. Or, if you want to dabble in a few scents to find your fave, you can pick up one of the sample collections that contain five different minis.

No matter which you choose, though, know that each of the formulations is consciously crafted by the brand and includes cruelty-free, vegan ingredients. Plus, every included crystal is ethically sourced, and every bottle comes with a ritual card to really help you make the most of your manifestations.

As for how my manifestation practice is going? I've definitely felt a shift since adopting Fitz's affirmation (and repeating it twice daily). And though I've only used my perfume a few times so far, I'm hopeful about spritzing my way to some big changes this year. If you have some goals of your own for 2026, love a little mystical magic and are passionate about perfume, I definitely suggest adding Ascention to your daily ritual.

I’m a Perfume Pro and I Predict These 5 Fragrances Are Going to Rule 2026

Why You Should Trust Us

PureWow's editors and writers have spent more than a decade shopping online, digging through sales and putting our home goods, beauty finds, wellness picks and more through the wringer—all to help you determine which are actually worth your hard-earned cash. From our PureWow100 series (where we rank items on a 100-point scale) to our painstakingly curated lists of fashion, beauty, cooking, home and family picks, you can trust that our recommendations have been thoroughly vetted for function, aesthetics and innovation. Whether you're looking for travel-size hair dryers you can take on-the-go or women’s walking shoes that won’t hurt your feet, we’ve got you covered.

Naturally, the “girlypops” are losing it. We did a deep dive into what five of our favorite creators are saying, and spoiler: your wallet is about to be $10 lighter.

1. The “Lip-Oil-in-a-Stick” Revolution

First up, Gabriella Rongstad (@gabriellarongstad) pointed out exactly why this launch is such a big deal. “It’s a lip oil in a stick,” she explains, noting that it brings that viral Glow Reviver shine without the potential leak-in-your-purse drama. She tried the shade Mauve Mentality—a gorgeous everyday neutral—and was instantly hooked on the buildable pigment.

2. The High-Contrast Staple

Erica Nicole (@ericanic0le), a self-proclaimed “lipaholic,” was immediately drawn to the shade Loveslick. “I always love wearing pink because it goes so well with my dark hair,” she says. Erica also tested Cara-melt (a warm nude) and Rose Latte, which she dubbed her “lips, but better” shade. Her final verdict? They’re officially living in her purse.

3. The Packaging is Actually Chic

We expect a lot from e.l.f., but Lil Peet (@_lilpeet) was specifically floored by the tube itself. “It’s a reflective, mirror-like case—plus, she’s magnetic,” she notes. Peet took a walk on the dark side with Jam Packed, a deep black cherry shade that she says is “beautiful for the holidays.” If you want a moody lip that still feels hydrating, this is the one.

4. The “Addictive Slip”

If you’re worried about a sticky mess, Serentta (@serenttaaa) is here to ease your mind. She highlighted the “smooth and creamy texture” that manages to hydrate and soften the lips simultaneously. She loved the medium buildable color, noting that the formula has an “addictive slip” that makes it effortless to apply while you’re on the go.

5. The Mirror-Free Essential

Finally, Makeup by Lexh (@makeupbylexh) reminded us why we love a balm-hybrid in the first place: the ease of use. “You can reapply without thinking or even looking in a mirror,” she says. As a self-described “glossy lip girl,” she confirmed that the shine is just as juicy as the PureWow editors promised.

The Verdict?

Whether you’re a Rose Latte devotee or craving the deep berry tones of Jam Packed, the consensus is clear: e.l.f. has done it again. At just $10, it’s the ultimate “treat yourself” item that actually works harder than some of our $40 favorites.

Ready to find your new signature shade? Shop the e.l.f. Glow Reviver Slipstick here.

In 2026, Pinterest Predicts is claiming another variant of the undone beauty trend: Glitchy Glam. This one, however, swings the pendulum in the opposite direction, being deliberately off-kilter—and undeniably eye-catching. Per the report, searches for terms like "weird makeup looks,” “nails with different colors on each hand” and "asymmetrical lob” soared. But rather than the gritty grunge and sinister pangs of its predecessors, Glitchy Glam looks like My Little Pony got the Gen Z makeover. Below are four standout trends.

1. Mismatched Manicures

Image Press Agency/NurPhoto/Shutterstock

“Beauty is missing the mark—on purpose,” Pinterest declares. Nails were the chief palette to get the overhaul last year and will continue into 2026. So many celebrities sported mismatched manicures, from Doechii and Megan Thee Stallion to Chappell Roan and Addison Rae. Whether you’re treating each nail as an individual canvas for a Reubens masterpiece or are just wearing ten different nail polish colors, there are many ways to make this trend work for your tastes and skill level. 

2. Two-Tone Lipstick

Image Press Agency/NurPhoto/Shutterstock

Former PureWow Assistant Editor Delia Curtis was on to something when they reported on the two-toned Cherry Cola lip trend in 2023. That combo is more relevant than ever with the full-on ‘90s resurgence and the fact that chocolate brown is going to rule the charts. However, given the inspiration for Pinterest Predicts on the two-tone lipstick, Cherry Cola is on the tame side. Instead, think monochromatic lip looks that blend multiple shades in one color family, or swiping on different shades (often neon) in each lip quadrant.

3. Asymmetric Hair Color

Lisa/AFF-USA/Shutterstock

Searches for “asymmetric lob” are up 85 percent, but as I scrolled through Pinterest Predicts’ Glitchy Glam moodboard, I couldn’t help but notice that hair dye was also a wildcard. I’m talking electric shades from pink to platinum, as well as erratic dyeing patterns. Just want frosted purple tips on your bleach blonde locks? No problem. Half a rainbow fringe? Sure. The whole point being, there are no rules.

4. Eclectic Eye Makeup

Lev Radin/ZUMA Press Wire/Shutterstock

Blush may have reigned supreme in 2025, but 2026 is the year of eye shadow. Winged liner is so…2010. Your eyelid—and by extension, your face—is your canvas. Rhinestones! Dual-tone eyeshadow! Lines that Picasso would love! Throw your old eyeshadow brushes out the window. This year, people are getting creative and treating the medium like paint.

This Is the Wellness Trend I'm Predicting Everyone’s Going to Hop On in 2026

I personally love the bite of cold that welcomes my face any time I step outside in the winter. It's like a refreshing cold plunge for my skin and nervous system. My lips, however, are not big fans. Every winter, without fail, they experience the chapping and flaking that comes with the dry, frigid air. But this time around, I've adopted a new secret weapon: Tatcha's Kissu lip mask.

Not only is this rich treatment a favorite of both Meghan Markle and Jennifer Aniston, it also happens to be on sale in a duo set at QVC right now. Regularly priced at $29 for one small tube, two Kissu masks are up for grabs for just $39 (marked down from $48) at the retailer. And if you're a new QVC customer, you can slash an additional $15 off your order with code NEWYEAR15. Here's why I—along with these A-listers—think it's worth the buy.

Want to know which buzzy products are *really* worth buying? Sign up for our shopping newsletter to uncover our favorite finds.

QVC

As Markle's makeup artist Daniel Martin has said in the past, the mask is his go-to for keeping "her lips looking really youthful" and giving them a "juicy, pretty" finish. The Tatcha product is also a staple in Aniston's beauty routine, per a photo the star snapped on Instagram stories of her makeup table.

While technically meant to be used as an overnight mask to treat dry lips, it can also totally be applied as an everyday balm or as a glossy finishing touch that adds plumping moisture. The formula is thick and luxurious, with a gel-like texture that, surprisingly, is not at all sticky. And yes, it's uber hydrating and nourishing, all thanks to ingredients like Japanese peach extract and camellia oil (tsubaki), the latter of which is said to deliver a hearty dose of vitamins and antioxidants, along with squalane and omegas 3, 6 and 9.

In my experience, it's just the thing to fortify my pout against the harsh, drying air (as much as I love venturing out into it). Swipe some on in the a.m., swipe some on before bed and, heck, reapply all day if your heart so desires. Your lips will never get tired of drinking this stuff up, and your wallet will thank you for picking up two pots at this price. Hey, Meg and Jen might be shopping this deal as we speak.

Meghan Markle Just Launched a Beauty Site and Here Are My 7 Favorite Products

Why You Should Trust Us

PureWow's editors and writers have spent more than a decade shopping online, digging through sales and putting our home goods, beauty finds, wellness picks and more through the wringer—all to help you determine which are actually worth your hard-earned cash. From our PureWow100 series (where we rank items on a 100-point scale) to our painstakingly curated lists of fashion, beauty, cooking, home and family picks, you can trust that our recommendations have been thoroughly vetted for function, aesthetics and innovation. Whether you're looking for travel-size hair dryers you can take on-the-go or women’s walking shoes that won’t hurt your feet, we’ve got you covered.

As a beauty editor, I spend a lot of time clocking the small shifts before they turn into full-blown beauty trends. It might be a makeup artist using the same technique on different clients, or a hairstylist quietly steering people away from something that used to be everywhere. Lately, those little signals have been adding up, and they all point in the same direction. 

In short, haircuts are designed to look fuller and healthier. Makeup is leaning into techniques that enhance bone structure and skin rather than covering everything up. Even color is being used more thoughtfully, with finishes that feel wearable in real life, not just under studio lights. Ahead, we’re breaking down the beauty trends you’re about to see everywhere in 2026, plus the expert insights that explain why these looks are sticking around and how to make them work for you.

Meet The Experts

Jay Small is a sought-after hair stylist and trichologist in Los Angeles with over 22 years experience, whose clients consist of high profile business and creative leaders. He trained as an apprentice to the owner of Paul Mitchell and worked globally in education and product development for John Paul Mitchell Systems. Jay is incredibly passionate about the creative process both in terms of styling hair as well as developing effective products. He is the co-founder of Arey. 

Christian Briceno is a celebrity makeup artist and studied at The Art Students League, where he learned about beauty and fashion makeup. His work has been featured in fashion shows such as Jean Paul Gaultier, Carolina Herrera and Chanel. His previous clients include Alicia Silverstone, Laura Donnelly and Debi Mazar.

1. Box Bob

Marijo Cobretti/Shutterstock

Is 2026 the year we say goodbye to over-layering? We’re already seeing this shape everywhere, from Florence Pugh’s sharp, jaw-length cuts to Zendaya’s recent blunt bobs styled with minimal feathering. If you want your hair to look thicker, excessive layers can actually work against you. “The trend is shifting toward blunt-ish silhouettes: strong at the perimeter, but softened with movement where it matters,” says Jay Small, celebrity hairstylist and co-founder of Arey. To get the box bob, keep the back clean and blunt, and the front face-framing.

2. Tone-on-Tone Makeup

Xavier Collin/Image Press Agency/Shutterstock

Nothing elevates a look like a monochrome moment, using the same shade across eyes, cheeks and lips making everything feel pulled together. NYFW Spring/Summer 2026 leaned heavily into soft, everyday tonal makeup at Collina Strada and Kim Shui, and the trend will be even bigger in months to come. 

“The key is switching up the texture, so the face doesn’t go flat,” says celebrity makeup artist Christian Briceno. “I’ll do a matte eye, cream blush and a glossy lip, all in rose or terracotta. You don’t have to think too hard; it just works. It’s fast, chic, and universally flattering.”

3. Latte Makeup

Xavier Collin/Image Press Agency/Shutterstock

Latte makeup is one of the most flattering looks; it's all about using browns and warm neutral shades to create a tasteful story. This warm-neutral approach has been quietly taking over, with stars like Jennifer Lopez, Sofia Richie Grainge and Rosie Huntington-Whiteley consistently opting for bronzed, tonal looks. 

“For harmony and soft cohesion, look for tones that warm the complexion without looking muddy or orange,” says Briceno. This trend is modern and expensive-looking all at once, especially when you balance matte warmth on the eyes with a creamy, plush cheek and a slightly blurred, bronzy lip. To get the look, Briceno suggests pairing Charlotte Tilbury Filmstar Bronze & Glow with Mineral Fusion Liquid Foundation for a soft-matte finish that anchors the entire look.

4. Draped Blush 

Xavier Collin/Image Press Agency/Shutterstock

“Draped blush is a technique I keep seeing coming back,” says Briceno. “This time, it rewrites the use of color in a modern way. It's so flattering in person and even better on camera; it doesn't just look naturally flushed; it looks sculpted.” Celebrities like Hailey Bieber and Zendaya have leaned into this lifted flush recently, and the technique was a go-to at the PatBo Spring runway show. 

For this lifted technique, Briceno mixes textures. He starts with a cream base for saturation, followed by a soft powder blush to set everything in place without compromising the skin's natural texture. For multi-taskers, he loves Mineral Fusion 3-in-1 Color Sick and Patrick Ta Major Headlines Double-Take Creme & Powder Blush Duo.

The Forecast Is In: Here Are the 8 Winter Beauty Trends of 2026

A few years ago, everyone was clamoring for a red light therapy mask—something that remains popular as we lean into the beauty tech space. However, this past year a new category flew on my radar: at-home laser devices. (And no, not for hair removal.) As a beauty writer, I get tons of pitches about the latest and greatest innovations, and this was one that truly felt…innovative. I had first heard of it last year when Carrie Mulligan raved about her Lyma laser for a Vogue “Beauty Secrets” video. Given that her particular model retails for nearly $6,000, I brushed it off. This year, the convo picked up as more affordable offerings created chatter. It got me wondering—what’s the difference between red light therapy and laser therapy? Are lasers the new red light? I spoke with two dermatologists to find out how the tech differs and which one you should choose to invest in. Plus, PureWow editors tested several red light therapy masks and at-home laser devices (with before and after photos!) to see which ones lived up to the hype.

The 10 Best Laser Hair Removal Tools, Tested and Vetted by Editors

Meet the Experts

• Daniel P. Friedmann, M.D. is a fellowship-trained, board-certified dermatologist and phlebologist at Westlake Dermatology and Clinical Research Director of the Westlake Dermatology Clinical Research Center. Dr. Friedmann completed his dermatology residency at the East Carolina University Brody School of Medicine Division of Dermatology in Greenville, North Carolina and served as chief resident during his final year. Dr. Friedmann subsequently completed a cosmetic surgery fellowship sponsored by the American Academy of Cosmetic Surgery at Goldman Butterwick Fitzpatrick Groff & Fabi, Cosmetic Laser Dermatology in San Diego, California.
• Dr. Whitney Hovenic is a double board-certified dermatologist and Mohs micrographic dermatologic surgeon based in Reno, Nevada. She holds a degree from the University of Nevada School of Medicine and completed her residency at the University of Missouri. Dr. Hovenic specializes in Mohs surgery and skin cancer but also practices general dermatology with a special interest in acne, eczema, psoriasis, cosmetic dermatology and the use of lasers for medical and cosmetic purposes. She is also the co-founder of suncare brand Spooge.

The TL;DR: At-Home Lasers

Lasers are actually a common in-office dermatology treatment. There are generally three types: ablative, non-ablative and fractional lasers. In the context of available at-home facial laser devices, we are talking about non-ablative (works beneath the skin, doesn’t remove outer layer), non-fractional (targets a general area) technology, like Nira and celeb-fave Lyma.

“Lasers use focused light energy to create controlled micro-injury in the skin,” Dr. Hovenic explains. “Even though they’re much gentler than in-office lasers, they still create tiny disruptions in the skin that trigger collagen production and renewal.”

This technology claims to address fine lines, uneven texture, dullness and mild pigmentation. It requires consistent use over several weeks, minimum, to see results. Dr. Hovenic says that you’ll generally see quicker, more visible results versus using red light therapy. “While the results won’t be as dramatic as in-office treatments, users often see smoother, firmer, more refined skin over time,” she adds.

Before you dive in, there are side effects to be aware of. Dr. Hovenic cautions that lasers can cause temporary redness, dryness or flaking. It’s also paramount to follow a device’s instructions—you can burn yourself. (And I’m speaking from experience.)

The TL;DR: Red Light Therapy Masks

Red light therapy masks use red and infrared wavelengths (typically between 620nm and 1mm) to treat inflammation. These low-energy wavelengths stimulate collagen production without causing injury, Dr. Hovenic explains.

“Red light therapy has very few risks but also offers mild results and requires long-term consistency to see any change. [It] offers more subtle improvements—enhancing skin radiance, calming inflammation and gently softening fine lines, but it’s best thought of as a maintenance treatment rather than a transformative one.”

While dermatologists I’ve spoken with caution against stacking beauty tech treatments, this is one that actually pairs well with something more intense like a laser because it focuses on anti-inflammation.

At Home Lasers vs. Red Light Masks

When it comes to visible results, I can attest from personal experience that at-home lasers have produced more dramatic changes. Dr. Hovenic agrees, saying: “Red light therapy delivers more subtle benefits and requires consistent use over weeks to months. Many at-home devices also don’t deliver enough energy to make a noticeable difference. It’s also an excellent complement to laser procedures, helping reduce downtime and extend the benefits of your results. [But it] is much gentler and safe for most skin types.”

In short, lasers will give more noticeable improvement, but can initially irritate the skin. They use focused light energy to stimulate collagen production. Per Dr. Hovenic, they are actively resurfacing and repairing the skin. 

Meanwhile, red light therapy is best for maintenance and has fewer risks. They’re best for supporting and maintaining results achieved by other therapies, like lasers. Dr. Hovenic sums it up like this: “Lasers are better for correcting; red light is better for maintaining.”

Who’s It For?

Most people can use both devices, but best practice is to always consult your own dermatologist before proceeding.

In general, those with sensitive skin (including acne) and deeper skin tones will want to proceed with caution. Dr. Hovenic cautions that some at-home lasers can increase hyperpigmentation. You should also skip the laser if you’re recently tanned or are pregnant.

As for red light therapy, all skin tones and types can use it, but if you have a photosensitive skin condition, are taking photosensitizing medication or have an active condition like a rash, you should wait until the issue is resolved before trying it.

The Bottom Line

Both red light therapy and laser therapy can help improve your skin, but there are caveats. Dr. Friedmann cautions that most devices have not been extensively studied, and “FDA clearance” doesn’t require the same amount of rigor as “FDA approved.”

“We know that laser technology and red light could produce skin benefits at sufficient dosages,” he says. “But it’s hard to say if these at-home devices achieve anything remotely close to that, since there are almost no clinical trials published about them.”

If you’re curious about the tech, just know that you’ll need to commit to consistency to see any results, which will also be on the modest side. (Truth: A plastic surgeon once bluntly told me that if you want plastic surgery- or injection-level results, you just have to do the thing.) That being said, Dr. Friedmann notes that “Patients who have significant skin discoloration, wrinkles/fine lines or skin sagging are unlikely to be happy with the results of these at-home devices.” The flip side is that in-office treatments can be pricey, but if you’re willing to put in the time at home, investing in one device will eventually pay for itself over time. Below, I’ve listed four tools PureWow editors have extensively tested—and that have actually produced results.

Shop the Editors’ Picks

1. NIRA Pro Laser

NIRA

I was admittedly skeptical when I enlisted PureWow Senior Editor (and Gen X-er) Dana Dickey to test the NIRA Pro laser with me. However, after 12 weeks, I ate my hat. The laser’s claim to fame—aside from being 35 percent faster and 50 percent more powerful than its predecessor—is that it will dramatically reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. Thanks to the larger surface area, you can do your entire face in about two minutes. Dickey’s results were particularly impressive, with dramatic improvement in her marionette lines around her mouth.

Left: Before NIRA/Right: After NIRA (original photos by dana dickey)

2. Qure Q-Rejuvalight Pro LED Mask

Qure

I’ve had the Qure Q-Rejuvalight Pro for a couple years and like to use it as a nightcap after I’ve done a NIRA session. As someone who can’t sit still, I love that this mask is hands-free with a three-minute treatment time. There are two light modes, red and blue (an alternative light therapy that TKTK). If you connect to the app, you can customize treatments for a mix of both lights, otherwise, the single button allows you to quickly toggle between the two. I found that using the mask regularly can help fade dark spots left behind by acne.

Left: Before Qure/Right: After Qure (original photos by marissa wu)

3. Lyma Laser

Lyma

PureWow Senior Commerce Editor Stephanie Maida tried the celeb-approved Lyma laser, a cold laser that actually purports to simulate repair without damaging the skin first. After 40 days of testing, here are her results:

“Immediately after each use, my skin does feel softer and smoother, and there’s zero redness or irritation. My skin no longer gets dry and flaky, and the dark patch of dry skin on my forehead—along with the fine lines running across it—have definitely begun to fade. I will usually get hormonal breakouts along my jawline leading up to the that time of the month, but those, too, have mostly dissipated; instead of getting big, painful blemishes beneath the surface of my chin, I only recently had a small spot pop up; I ran the laser over it and it was gone in a day.” She also reported an improvement in her nasolabial folds and jowl area, but notes that you have to be really consistent with treatments, holding the laser in each area of concern for a at least three minutes before moving on.

Finally, it's worth nothing that the Lyma is a cold laser (as opposed to NIRA, which runs hot), and an expert Maida spoke to said that it's specifically designed to not cause trauma to skin, but rather "trigger mitochondrial stimulation deep in the cells."

Left: Before Lyma/Right: After Lyma (original photos by Stephanie Maida)

4. Omnilux Contour Face Red Light Mask

Omnilux

Former PureWow Associate Fashion Commerce Editor Stephanie Meraz’s mom tested the Omnilux Contour Face mask. Meraz’s mom is in her 60s and hoped the mask would address her sunspots, fine lines and wrinkles. After the three-month testing period, she reported: “I definitely see less wrinkles and am very impressed with my jawline area. The most noticeable change was in the saggy skin around the mouthline, which was great to see. I noticed that the skin there is less saggy! I don’t think it helped with any spots or pigmentation issues, but it definitely helped with wrinkles and texture. For someone who [doesn’t want to] see a plastic surgeon, this mask is helpful.”

Left: Before Omnilux/Right: After Omnilux (original photos by Stephanie Meraz)

$350 and Four Weeks Later: How the Shark CyroGlow Face Mask Calms My Acne-Prone Skin

I was on quite the fragrance journey in 2025, discovering unexpected scents and sweet classics, but I’m already looking forward to sniffing out which new (or returning) scents are in store for 2026. Here’s an early look on what you can expect to see—er, smell—everywhere, along with my perfume recommendations for capturing these olfactory trends on your own skin. Plus, I chatted with a fragrance expert, who shared his thoughts on some emerging scents. (Spoiler: Things are about to get deliciously fruity.)

Meet the Expert

Paul Fino is a fragrance influencer and social media creator whose posts, reviews and reports as @paulreactss reach a combined 1.5 million viewers. Fino’s travels and perfume trials are known for their irreverence, relatability and information.

Want to know which buzzy products are *really* worth buying? Sign up for our shopping newsletter to uncover our favorite finds.

1.Grown Up Gourmands

Sephora

As Editorial Assistant Courtney Mason previously reported, gourmands dominated 2025 and they will continue to well into the new year. However, you can expect to skip the toothache, as the sweet fragrance family is getting a bit more sophisticated in 2026. While caramel proved this theory back in September, I predict other key notes are going to take its place. For instance, I’m already seeing pistachio, a nutty scent known for its slightly sweet, yet warm finish, pop up on my feed. I’ve also spotted traditionally sweet notes evolve into warm, smoky bases, like burnt marshmallow, toasted vanilla and roasted hazelnut.

2. An Ode to Oud

Sephora

While going down a Reddit rabbit hole, I found that many fragrance fanatics are anticipating oud to become a popular scent in the first half of the year. It’s derived from resinous wood and often stands apart from other fragrances due to its complexity. It comes in different versions ranging from sweet to smoky to musky. The buzzy fragrance also pairs well with other classic notes like rose, leather and amber to give your signature scent more depth. So if you’re looking to make a statement and sport a long-lasting fragrance, you should consider adding oud to your rotation. 

3. Embracing the Dark Side

Dossier

Are you sensing a theme here? We’ve been deep into our goth girl era, from vampy makeup to dark romantic fashion—so it’s about time we dive into woody, spicy and overall richer fragrances in 2026. Sweets and florals had their moment, but now we’re tapping into our dark sides. I anticipate blends with bolder scent notes like patchouli, clove, frankincense, saffron, black cardamom and cinnamon, to name a few. 

4. Berry Nice to Meet You

Sephora

Fruity fragrances are often associated with the warmer months, but when it comes to winter 2026, I believe we’ll be getting a whiff of darker fruits (like pomegranate, black cherry and raspberries) in our perfumes—and Fino agrees. “Raspberry is about to steal the spotlight. It’s always been lurking in the background, but now it’s ready for its solo moment,” he shares. “Sweet, tart, juicy—it hits that perfect ‘I want to bite it’ energy. After a year (or two) of heavy gourmand aromas, perfumers are craving something that’s mouthwatering without feeling like dessert. Raspberry is that natural next step.” And although the saying goes, “the darker the berry, the sweeter the juice,” expect the trendy notes to feature more depth, warmth and intensity. 

5. The Peach, the Pear and the Watermelon Revival

Sephora

But don’t put away all your sweet scents just yet. According to Fino, there are three fruit notes that are going to be huge next year: peach, pear and watermelon. “Peach, pear and watermelon are quietly creeping back, and I can feel it. Brands are moving away from vanilla-heavy scents and diving back into fruitiness. Bright, fresh, playful... but never sticky sweet,” he explains. A fragrance fruit salad, coming right up.

3 Fragrance Rules to Break (and One You Absolutely Must Follow)

Why You Should Trust Us

PureWow's editors and writers have spent more than a decade shopping online, digging through sales and putting our home goods, beauty finds, wellness picks and more through the wringer—all to help you determine which are actually worth your hard-earned cash. From our PureWow100 series (where we rank items on a 100-point scale) to our painstakingly curated lists of fashion, beauty, cooking, home and family picks, you can trust that our recommendations have been thoroughly vetted for function, aesthetics and innovation. Whether you're looking for travel-size hair dryers you can take on-the-go or women’s walking shoes that won’t hurt your feet, we’ve got you covered.

While the holiday season might be coming to an end, we're not leaving the freezing cold winter weather behind anytime soon. That said, until those spring days arrive, why not savor the coziest scents to boost your (or your man's) spirit?

I've rounded up the 16 best winter fragrances for men to smell fine and fresh. After all, let's face it—nothing ruins an outfit faster than not smelling all that great, and even though the weather is much chillier/downright freezing in certain parts of the world for the next few months, you can still sweat and smell...pretty bad beneath your heavy coats and jackets.

From the classic Burberry Eau de Toilette (from $93) to the spicy Dior Fahrenheight (from $112), I've got you guys covered with some fresh scents that will have you smelling like Denzel Washington and Keanu Reeves (or OK, how I'd imagine they'd smell) in no time.

How I Chose the Best Winter Fragrances for Men

I read through hundreds of reviews and recommendations from editors before selecting what is considered by many critics and fragrance enthusiasts to be the best of the best when it comes to men's colognes, specifically for winter. That meant focusing on spicy, warming and cozy scents, though I looked to appeal to a range of tastes and budgets.

The Best Winter Fragrances for Men at a Glance

Want to know which buzzy products are *really* worth buying? Sign up for our shopping newsletter to uncover our favorite finds.

1. Burberry Eau de Toilette

Amazon

First released in 1995, this cologne has been serving folks well for 30 years with its musky top notes of bergamot, lavender, mint and thyme, which blends effortlessly into its luxurious base mixture of amber, musk and vanilla. A fragrance that lasts all day (according to its buyers), it currently has nearly 2,000 5-star ratings, with one shopper writing, "I bought this for my husband. It has a clean smell that isn't too overpowering." As if the scent isn't enough, the price point is actually quite affordable for the bottle size, and you don't need to spray too much to make a difference. It's a solid investment, in my opinion.

2. Tom Ford Tabacco Vanille

Tom Ford

Want to really knock 'em dead at the office happy hours this year? Grab a bottle of Tobacco Vanille and spritz some on before you head out. What makes this fragrance so great, you ask? For me, it's the combination of the tobacco leaf and spicy notes top and middle notes, which are mixed ever-so-slightly with sweeter base ingredients like vanilla and cacao. It smells like a dream in-person, and you'll be thanking me later for the recommendation. I'm not kidding.

3. DATE for Men

Amazon

He'll definitely enjoy a little bit of DATE for date night (get it?). Seriously, you would be remiss if you did not get him this cologne, as it is a fan favorite in the fragrance enthusiast community, which should come as no surprise considering the brand itself describes this as being "the fruity opening of flirtiness on a date that ultimately leads to seduction." According to buyers, DATE also lives up to its reputation of being great for the winter, as one reviewer notes, "It's a very good unisex fragrance best suited for colder weather, but it also works perfectly in summer evenings. I received a lot of compliments!"

4. Creed Aventus

Neiman Marcus

I have no qualms calling this one of the best men's fragrances on the market. Not only has been around for ages, but it works for just about any setting and scenario you can think of. Not to mention, it's packed with tons of ingredients that smell amazing such as pineapple and black currant, all the way to rose moroccan jasmine and oak moss. It requires a steeper investment, but lasts longer than others because you literally only need one spritz and you're good!

5. Versace Eros Flame

Amazon

Let's not get it twisted—there's Versace Eros, and then there's Versace Eros Flame. The latter is the slightly sexier version of its predecessor, boasting a spicy woody scent that has hints of citrus that can be detected upon first smell. Slightly spicy and slightly sweet, Eros Flame made its debut in 2018, and is quickly catching up to the popularity of its big brother. If there's any fragrance I have no problem saying you should buy in two's, it's this one. Plus, look at that price!

6. Dior Fahrenheit

Sephora

Dior Fahrenheit is definitely a scent that takes the temperature up several notches, with its note mixture of chamomile, orange and lavender, just to name a few. Described as being "intoxicating," Fahrenheit lives up to its expectations. "I bought this for my boyfriend as a gift and he is obsessed," writes one Sephora buyer. "The scent lasts for so long (roughly seven hours), and I would describe it as a warm, spicy scent. The sandalwood is very present, and it smells like a warm campfire." Seeing as though all of the reviews are in line with this one, you certainly can't go wrong with making the splurge.

7. Bleu de Chanel

Chanel

Straight from the legendary House of Chanel, "Bleu de Chanel" is the perfect scent to spritz on for cooler months thanks to its citrus and pink pepper vetiver top notes. Add those in with grapefruit cedar labdanum, ginger, sandalwood and frankincense as your middle and base notes, and what you get in return is a captivating smell that represents love and romance.

8. Armani Code

Walmart

Get on code with Armani Code, a lauded fragrance that smells and looks just like the ocean. Speaking from personal experience, a lot of fragrances claim to offer an "exotic scent," but end up falling disappointingly short. Not the case with Armani Code, which gets its sultry spice from tobacco and star anise and has plenty of 5-star reviews across the internet."You get a large bottle at a bargain price, and now my son smells as good as his dad! " As the review mentions, you can currently snag a 2.5-ounce bottle for just $73, so this really is a large bottle for a bargain price.

9. Valentino Uomo Born in Roma Coral Fantasy

Nordstrom

Doesn't the design of this bottle just look oh so luxurious? Attractiveness aside, he (and you) will appreciate the entrancing nature of this scent, which consists of cardamom, red apple, calabrian bergamot and more. "When I say this fragrance will have you turning heads…it’s fruity yet masculine with the wood dry down," writes one Nordstrom buyer, who is very clearly happy with his purchase. "I had to buy another one and gift it to a friend for his 30th birthday!"

10. Dior Sauvage

Sephora

Is it truly Dior if it isn't sexy? Not in my opinion! In fact, Dior Sauvage has a case for being one of the sexiest scents of all time, which is definitely because of its slightly outdoorsy citrusy smell that is both compelling and captivating. If you've been on the hunt for a "signature scent," Sauvage will serve you well.

11. Jean Paul Gaultier Scandal

Amazon

Speaking of sexy scents, any fragrance that has the word 'scandal' in it is bound to be a little bit on the sexy side, don't you think? Well, sexy is exactly what Jean Paul Gaultier's Scandal Les Parfums is, according to its buyers, who also appreciate its simplicity—the three key fragrance notes pair well together, without competing against one another. "This scent is very sweet, and is definitely one of my favorites from Jean Paul Gaultier," raves one shopper, with another adding, "The aroma is very good." With geranium as the top note, tonka bean as the middle and a base of sandalwood, this is a fragrance that speaks for itself.

12. Michael Kors Extreme Journey

Michael Kors

The brand itself says this is a scent that "captures the rugged intensity of racing through Saharan sands," which means the heat is definitely turned up some when he puts this on. According to reviewers, it also does a solid job of lasting all day without having to reapply much, and the price is great for its under $60 value.

13. Acqua Di Parma

Nordstrom

If specifically searching for a tried-and-true fragrance for him that has been highly rated and revered for over a century, make your way over to Acqua Di Parma, which has been on store shelves since 1916. The top notes consist of neroli, mint and galbanol, which is grounded by the herbal middle notes of lavender and rosemary. Throw in the vetiver and musk base notes, and he's got an earthy, sultry scent that's equal parts rugged and cozy.

14. Prada Luna Rossa

Sephora

Prada's Luna Rossa is also another iconic scent with a fan following—one that's endured for years, BTW. The fragrance instantly captivates due to its unique mixtures of sweet and citrus with lavender, bitter orange, mint, clary sage, amroxan and ambrette, and remains one that you can smell coming from a mile away. If you still haven't found your "defining scent yet," I'd say give Luna Rossa a try.

15. Gucci Guilty Absolute Pour Homme

Amazon

Gucci has smartly created two different versions of their Guilty Absolute scent—one for women, and one for men. The latter is incredible, according to those who have given it a shot. Consisting of a mixture of woody, warming notes that instantly heats things up like a fireplace in the middle of winter, this fragrance is definitely sexy, but still tame enough that it can be worn to the office.

16. Issey Miyake Nuit d’Issey

Nordstrom

Issey Miyake describes its Nuit d'Issey fragrance as "a combination of elegance, strength and masculinity," opening with bergamot and grapefruit as its top notes, and tonka bean and patchouli as its base. Due to its overall strength of powerful notes, this scent is one that can last throughout the entire workday, according to buyers. Well then, looks like you may have to make this his next cologne pickup.

I Tested Taylor Swift’s Favorite $300 Perfume and It’s Truly Giving *Luxury*

Why You Should Trust Us

PureWow's editors and writers have spent more than a decade shopping online, digging through sales and putting our home goods, beauty finds, wellness picks and more through the wringer—all to help you determine which are actually worth your hard-earned cash. From our PureWow100 series (where we rank items on a 100-point scale) to our painstakingly curated lists of fashion, beauty, cooking, home and family picks, you can trust that our recommendations have been thoroughly vetted for function, aesthetics and innovation. Whether you're looking for travel-size hair dryers you can take on-the-go or women’s walking shoes that won’t hurt your feet, we’ve got you covered.

‘Twas the year of Labubus, demon hunters and, for PureWow readers, a whole lot of shopping. For 12 months, we tried, tested and wrote about countless items, from updated wardrobe staples to buzzy beauty products and massively marked-down home appliances—and you, dear readers, have trusted our recs and purchased up a whole bunch of ‘em.

But as we look back at 2025, it’s clear that some buys were hotter hits than others (looking at you, GrandeLASH-MD serum). So we crunched the numbers, tallied up the checkouts and here, have brought you the top ten items that you and your fellow PureWow shoppers brought home this year.

Did your favorite buy make the cut?

Want to know which buzzy products are *really* worth buying? Sign up for our shopping newsletter to uncover our favorite finds.

10. VMAI Cordless Electric Spin Mop

Amazon

Let’s just say you guys can’t resist a good cleaning tool. This lightweight, cordless mop caught readers’ attention this year for its dual spinning mop heads (featuring interchangeable pads for different tasks), built-in spritzer and LED headlights that ensure you never miss a spot. But one of the coolest things about it might be its self-propelled design, which makes gliding it over your hard floors totally effortless (and easy on your back).

9. Anthropologie Somerset Maxi Dress

Anthropologie

A cult-favorite frock if there ever was one, Anthropologie’s Somerset maxi dress has been a PureWow top-seller for years now. Every season, the brand drops the dress in different colors and patterns, and every season, you guys flock to add it to your closets. For good reason, of course. From the tiered skirt to the flattering smocked waist and, yes, pockets (!), this number checks every box—plus, it’s *so* comfortable to wear.

8. Quince Luna Stretch Slim Jeans

Quince

Ever since our editor-in-chief, Jillian Quint, wrote an ode to these jeans, they’ve been selling like hotcakes. The stretchy, slim-fitting denim style is perfect for petites (like Quint) and everyone else, given that they come in three inseams, so it’s no wonder why they became an instant hit. “Among the things I like: the very slight stretch, which means they have give in the butt and thighs, but don’t sag in the knees; the straight ankle-length leg, which is a nice balance between an old-fashioned skinny jean and a more modern silhouette; the dark indigo wash, which makes them work and evening appropriate,” Quint raved in her review.

7. Kohl’s The Big One Throw

Kohl's

Anything can go viral these days, even…a throw blanket?! In the case of Kohl’s The Big One throw, it’s totally justified. The ultra-plush, movie-night-sized blanket is so warm and cozy, and comes in so many fun, seasonal prints that folks have no trouble picking it up in triples to rotate throughout the year. However, its main draw might be the under-$15 price tag, which makes it not just winter-friendly, but wallet-friendly, too.

6. Color Wow Dream Coat Supernatural Spray

Amazon

This creator of ‘glass hair’ surged in popularity after it was revealed that Kim Kardashian’s hairstylist used it to achieve her super sleek strands. A couple of years later, it’s still going strong as a frizz-fighting essential. In fact, when one former PureWow editor tested it on her own “unruly, puffy, Monica Gellar-in-Barbados” locks (her words), she said it left her hair feeling as smooth as “a silk scarf.” It appears PureWow readers agree.

5. Grande Cosmetics GrandeLASH-MD Lash Enhancing Serum

Amazon

There are three guarantees in life: death, taxes and the fact that this lash serum is going to fly off the shelves whenever it goes on sale. But we think it’s worth it even at full price. After all, when one former PureWow editor first gave it a go, she had people coming up to her asking if her lashes were real. If that’s not a sign that this formula—which is made with vitamins, peptides and amino acids to encourage growth—really works, we don’t know what is.

4. Purriko Refrigerator Deodorizer

Amazon

Dubbed a “lifesaver” by a PureWow editor after a bottle of apple cider vinegar exploded in her fridge, this tiny gadget packs a big punch when it comes to eliminating unsavory odors from refrigerators, pantries and even gym bags and storage closets. And it doesn’t just mask bad smells—it actually decomposes the gases that cause them, nipping them at the source. Popping this in your fridge can even help your food stay fresher for longer. Don’t believe me? Ask one of the hundreds of readers who took one home this year.

3. Beautural Foldable Steamer

Amazon

Whether for travel, home or to keep in your desk at work, so many of you guys nabbed this compact, conveniently foldable steamer to keep wrinkles at bay. Between its seriously fast heat-up time (30 seconds!), leakproof design and extra-long cord that makes finding an outlet easy-peasy, this little guy is the GOAT of keeping clothes crisp and smooth.

2. Grace & Stella Energizing Eye Masks

Amazon

Long days and restless nights are no match for these golden patches. I speak from experience: They’re a secret weapon against tired, puffy eyes, delivering a jolt of cooling energy to the area that instantly makes you feel more awake, all while tightening and brightening your under-eye area. They feature sea moss, hyaluronic acid, amino acids and glycerin to hydrate, smooth and revitalize skin, reducing puffiness and, over time, even fine lines. More than 400 of you have picked these up to pop on in the morning (or on flights, or before a night out) this year alone—and are showing no signs of quitting them anytime soon.

1. Medicube Collagen Jelly Cream

Amazon

Among this affordable moisturizer’s dedicated fans? TikTok creators, Meghan Markle and the more than 800 PureWow readers who stocked up on the stuff in 2025. Did the fact that it was featured on the Duchess’s beauty picks list have anything to do with it? Most likely. But this collagen-packed jelly cream had been making the rounds in K-Beauty circles well before Markle’s stamp of approval. Thank its thick, jelly-like formula that leaves skin bouncy, luminous and “glass-like.” The general consensus seems in line with this Amazon review: “Hands down the best skin product I discovered this year. I will probably put this on before bed for the rest of my life.”

Why You Should Trust Us

PureWow's editors and writers have spent more than a decade shopping online, digging through sales and putting our home goods, beauty finds, wellness picks and more through the wringer—all to help you determine which are actually worth your hard-earned cash. From our PureWow100 series (where we rank items on a 100-point scale) to our painstakingly curated lists of fashion, beauty, cooking, home and family picks, you can trust that our recommendations have been thoroughly vetted for function, aesthetics and innovation. Whether you're looking for travel-size hair dryers you can take on-the-go or women’s walking shoes that won’t hurt your feet, we’ve got you covered.

• Ease of Use: 17/20
• Efficacy: 15/20
• Comfort: 19/20
• Aesthetics: 18/20
• Value: 15/20

Total: 84/100

Lyma lasers, microcurrent devices, red light therapy masks, oh my! There’s no shortage of at-home beauty tech treatments to choose from. If you’ve ever been in an esthetician’s studio, chances are you’ve at least seen a high-frequency wand—or had it used in your routine. And, like the rest of these once-only-professionally-used devices, there are now ones marketed for at-home use. It purports to increase absorption of skincare products, stimulate collagen production, boost circulation and reduce breakouts and inflammation. Curious, I, a Gen Z-er, roped in a Millennial and Gen X-er to try the popular NuDerma high-frequency wand (from $90; $72) with me. Additionally, I spoke with several experts to understand how the technology works and how effective it really is in an at-home setting. Here are our thoughts after weeks of testing.

Meet the Experts

• Rachael Gallo is a licensed master esthetician and chief operating officer of Silver Mirror Facial Bar.
• Dr. Whitney Hovenic is a double board-certified dermatologist and Mohs surgeon based in Reno, Nevada and the co-founder of sunscreen brand SPOOGE.
• Emme Diane Burg is a licensed esthetician and the founder of skincare clinic and acne care line Emme Diane.

What Is the NuDerma High-Frequency Wand?

Amazon

The NuDerma high-frequency wand is a handheld facial device that uses mild electric currents to help increase blood flow and collagen production in skin. Depending on the model you choose (there are three: Standard, Professional, Clinical), the wand claims to address signs of aging, acne or both. The Standard wand uses neon gas; the Professional wand includes wands with either neon or argon gas and the Clinical wand fuses both gases into the same attachments.

Using these gases, the high-frequency wand promises to kill acne-causing bacteria, clear breakouts, prevent new ones, all while enhancing blood circulation and cell renewal. The brand recommends using the wand every other day for two to three minutes, with results taking a minimum of two to four weeks to start showing.

Over the course of a month, I, along with PureWow Senior Editor Dana Dickey and tester Sabrina Singh, tested all three versions of NuDerma’s wand. We represent Gen Z, Millennials and Gen X with diverse skin types and issues. Per the brand’s instructions, we used the wands at least once a week and looked for improvement in acne, scarring, redness, fine lines and hair growth. Everyone evaluated the wand on five different qualities: ease of use, efficacy, comfort, aesthetics and value.

Our NuDerma High-Frequency Wand Review

Original photos by Marissa Wu

For testing, we followed the wand’s directions as instructed. Burg advises starting with clean skin and applying a serum to avoid drying. In my experience, it also helps the device glide. Otherwise, you’ll be pulling at your face. If you don’t want to apply any product, Burg also uses gauze in her studio, which can help the rod move more smoothly.

When it comes to intensity, Burg says, “You should feel a little tingle or ‘zappy’ sensation, but it shouldn’t be painful or feel like you’re burning the skin. Cranking it all the way up doesn’t clear acne faster, it just dries and irritates the skin more. With high-frequency, more is not better. Overusing it can lead to dryness and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (those dark marks that linger after a breakout).”

As for the scalp attachment, which is supposed to stimulate hair follicles, I found it worked fine on either wet or dry hair. I applied the 100-stroke method three times a week.

With that in mind, here are our takeaways:

Ease of Use

Left: Before/Right: After (Original photos by Sabrina Singh)

We all found the wand easy to use and the setup straightforward. It’s just plug-and-play. The only thing to be cautious about is that the attachments are glass and can break—this was a major con when I was reading reviews. The directions explicitly explain how you should handle the attachments: by the base, not the top. I followed the advice and everything has been fine. The intensity is controlled by an easy knob, which you twist to go from power 1 to 5. Start low and build your way up. To avoid an initial zap, place your finger on the attachment and then turn on the wand. With your finger still on the attachment, bring the wand in contact with your face. This is called “grounding” the device, and once you’ve done that, you can remove your finger and glide the wand on your skin.

Efficacy

As the experts explain later, a high-frequency wand is a surface-level treatment meant to provide quicker results—but on the flip side, they’re not long lasting. I noticed that my skin felt and looked more hydrated and plump after using the wand with toner. Dickey saw her facial redness, bordering rosacea, improve. I had been watching my acne scars on my chin and found they were diminishing more quickly than if I had let them alone, and I didn’t have any new breakouts. However, Singh reported that she didn’t see much difference in healing time and breakout management, and it did cause some dryness. This may have been due to using it on bare skin, rather than with a toner or serum to facilitate the wand’s movement.

Regarding the scalp attachment, it was easiest of all the attachments to use, since it glided over my scalp whether it was wet or dry. My initial hair length was 22.25 inches. After the testing period, it measured 22.63 inches, for a total growth of 0.38 inches. That’s a little less than the average 0.41 inches per month. I feel like it seemed less effective than the hair serums I've tested in part because this isn't something you can use every day. (The max is three times per week). I may have seen better results if I had used it for eight to 12 weeks.

Comfort

We all thought the device was fairly comfortable to use. As you increase the power settings, you may feel the electric current more strongly, but it’s not painful. To help the wand glide as smoothly as possible and not tug on your skin, a toner or serum is really handy. I did notice a slight metallic scent that I didn’t find the most pleasant, but it wasn’t a huge dealbreaker.

Aesthetics

Singh put it best: “The box with the wand and all the attachments is rather large and took up a lot of space under my sink. It would be better if there had been a stand I could have placed on my sink because it was a bit of an ordeal to unpack and repack the wand and attachments each time.” The tool itself is pretty sleek, but depending on which model you go for, there’s a lot to store.

How High-Frequency Wands Work

Left: Before/Right: After (Original photos by Marissa Wu)

The mention of neon and argon gas makes me think of the periodic table—not skincare. I tapped a dermatologist and esthetician to talk about the merits in beauty routines. Per Gallo, a licensed master esthetician, “High-frequency wands work to kill bacteria on the skin, especially in open or large pores. They use a gentle electrical current to create tiny sparks that produce antibacterial ozone and increase blood flow to the area. They are effective for short-term results and [to] promote healing, but no current studies show long-term benefits.”

Dr. Hovenic adds that most results are short term—you’ll probably observe it reducing puffiness and breakouts. But ecause the high-frequency wand warms the skin, it can also enhance product absorption, which can benefit skin in the long run.

While it sounds fancy, the gas simply serves to conduct the electric current. “Argon is often marketed for acne, while neon is said to boost circulation and support collagen for anti-aging,” Dr. Hovenic says. “While there’s some basic science behind these claims, the difference in results are subtle. In reality, the main benefits come from the light stimulation and increased blood flow, rather than the gas type itself.”

When treating acne specifically, Gallo recommends the “sparking method.” Place the wand on the blemish for one to two seconds, then tap the area three to four times with the device.

Safety Precautions

Original photos by Marissa Wu

As with other beauty tech devices, you shouldn’t stack your treatments with the NuDerma wand, though Gallo notes you can use a red light therapy mask afterwards. Otherwise, space out your lasers, radio frequency and microcurrent devices, lest you irritate your skin.

Dr. Hovenic cautions that those who have very sensitive skin, rosacea, eczema, open wounds, a pacemaker or metal plants should steer clear. You also shouldn’t use it too often, keeping the frequency at every other day, minimum.

“Overuse can cause temporary redness, dryness or mild irritation, so it’s best to start slow and listen to your skin,” Dr. Hovenic says. “If you have darker skin, even mild heat can cause pigmentation to occur, so start with a small area in a cosmetically less sensitive area, such as on the side of the face, and use a few times to make sure no side effects occur before moving on to full face treatments.”

High-Frequency Wands vs. Other Treatments

High-frequency wands are surface-level treatments best for maintenance and a quick boost, while other technologies can deliver more long-term correction.

“[These Wands] work on the surface of the skin, providing short-term benefits like increased oxygen, mild stimulation and a cleaner, more refreshed appearance,” Dr. Hovenic says. “By contrast, lasers use concentrated light to target deeper layers of the skin, treating wrinkles, pigmentation, or broken blood vessels with more precision. Radiofrequency delivers heat energy to stimulate collagen remodeling, improving firmness over time. Microcurrent sends gentle electrical impulses to tone facial muscles and subtly lift the skin. Red light therapy uses a specific light wavelength to reduce inflammation and encourage healing.”

The Bottom Line

The NuDerma high-frequency wand is best for those seeking a quick, DIY treatment between their dermatologist appointments. It does yield results, but they’re more temporary than lasers, radiofrequency or microcurrent devices. Per Burg, “Neither gas is going to help with anti-aging the way lasers, microchanneling or professional treatments do. But, neon can give the skin a temporary, healthy glow, and argon absolutely has benefits for acne when used correctly.” Overall, the basic model is a more accessible, under-$100 pick for folks just getting into at-home beauty tech.

A Gen Z and a Gen X Editor Put the Nira Pro Laser to the Test—Here Are the Results After 12 Weeks

One of my favorite movie quotes makes a point that it's not people's faces we remember—it's the way they smelled. That's why I love perfume. It has the power to announce your arrival and linger after you've gone. Fragrance can tell a story about who you are. Maybe you're a leather jacket-brandishing Tom Ford Rose Exposed or a sweet and sassy showgirl like Taylor Swift. The options are boundless. Now, you can embody your star sign, thanks to the new Bath & Body Works fine fragrance zodiac collection. The brand crafted 12 scents, from Aries to Pisces, highlighting each sign's unique characteristics. Did they get yours right?

1. Aries

Bath & Body Works

Vanilla bourbon, creamy sandalwood and rich musk embody the ram's firey stubbornness, independence and strength.

2. Taurus

Bath & Body Works

Sun-kissed bergamot, golden pear and sheer woods highlight the bull's headstrong nature and penchant for hedonism.

3. Gemini

Bath & Body Works

Sunny citrus, white peach and blonde woods encapsulate Gemini's breezy spirit and adaptable, chameleon qualities. They're hard to pin down!

4. Cancer

Bath & Body Works

Rain-kissed palms, Amazon dragon fruit and silver breeze let Cancer's intuitive, compassionate side shine.

5. Leo

Bath & Body Works

Gilded berries, golden petals and spirited musk embody Leo's fearless passion.

6. Virgo

Bath & Body Works

Sueded petals, soft sandalwood and vanilla bean highlight Virgo's familiar dependability and loyalty.

7. Libra

Bath & Body Works

Strawberry spun sugar, marshmallow fluff and crisp air strike a sweet balance, highlighting Libra's love of harmony.

8. Scorpio

Bath & Body Works

Wild berry, sparkling mandarin and cypress woods tug on Scorpio's audacious, determined and intense nature.

9. Sagittarius

Bath & Body Works

Sweet raspberry, purple plum and cosmic cashmere hint at Sag's idealism, energy and action-oriented side.

10. Capricorn

Bath & Body Works

Rose petals, cocoa flower and whipped foam highlight Capricorn's patience and perseverance, while also flaunting a hint of creativity.

11. Aquarius

Bath & Body Works

Fresh rainfall, sunlit pear and blonde woods bring Aquarius' innovative spirit to the forefront.

12. Pisces

Bath & Body Works

Frosted bergamot, sweet berries and lavender breeze put a spotlight on the celestial dreamer's emotional and empathetic demeanor.

I Tried Rihanna’s $275 Signature Scent, and Now I Understand Why Everyone Says She Smells Like Heaven

If there’s one thing I’ve learned after years of testing everything from $12 drugstore serums to fragrances that cost more than my first sofa (true story!), it’s this: beauty launches come and go, but the truly great ones make you feel something. A little more you.

Here, I’m kicking off “What Deena’s Loving”, my new monthly edit of the latest releases that actually earned a spot in my routine. I found myself gravitating toward elevated body care, next-level hydration, and a fragrance moment that transported me straight to the desert at golden hour.

Sol de Janeiro Rosa Charmosa Dewy Cream

Original Photo by Deena Campbell

Let me be clear. If your body-care routine stops at “whatever lotion is closest to the bed,” Sol de Janeiro’s Rosa Charmosa is about to change your life. This new super thick cream delivers facial-grade skincare benefits for your body, meaning peptides, rose water, Brazilian yacón essence throughout and a texture that gives you the kind of gleamy finish normally reserved for red carpets. Yes, it’s dewy, and no, it won’t transfer onto your favorite cashmere sweater and silk top.

Matiere Premiere Candle Collection

Original Photo by Deena Campbell

Fragrance girlies, gather round. Matiere Premiere just launched its first candle collection, and the scent that stopped me in my tracks is Omani Incense. Imagine the dry season in Oman (I know because I was there this time last year!) The sun hitting stone and sand. Freshly harvested resin waiting in coarse jute sacks. The air is thick with white-and-gold drops of incense that harden as they cool. That’s this candle. Smoky and extremely woody. Light it while decorating the tree, or in my case, whenever I need a quick reminder of vacations past.

NERRĀ Body Lotion

Original Photo by Deena Campbell

Crafted in France and powered by peptides and ceramides, this lotion feels like the long-awaited marriage of science and sensorial pleasure. It’s a formula I’ve applied while rushing out the door and didn’t think about it again until I realized my skin still feels soft at 10 p.m. Here’s the trick: it’s laced with AQUAXYL™, a proprietary ingredient designed to optimize water balance, reduce moisture loss and boost hyaluronic acid and ceramide synthesis. In a press release, founder and lead formulator Teyma Touati put it perfectly, “Bodycare has long been treated as secondary to skincare. With this launch, we’re proving it can deliver the same level of clinical results and refinement as face care. It’s a full-body act of restoration.”

Salt & Stone Mini Deodorant Discovery Set

Original Photo by Deena Campbell

Let me confess something. Most natural deodorants don’t work for me. I’ve tried the chic ones, the minimalist ones, the ones that come in jars you scoop with a tiny spatula—I’ve tried them all. But Salt & Stone always nails it. It’s one of the rare natural deodorants that doesn’t crumble on your pits or melt away. But, here’s the real headline: the scents are fresh without being perfumey, and they actually keep me feeling dry and very confident that I won’t smell questionable after a few hours. If you’re deo-curious or deo-skeptical, consider this your gateway set. The minis let you try everything without feeling like you’re committing to (or spending on) a full-size product that may or may not work for you.

Briogeo Healthy Hair Delights

Original Photo by Deena Campbell

I love December because it’s filled with beauty kits everywhere you look, but this time, one actually caught my attention. The Healthy Hair Delights gift set from Briogeo is exactly the kind of hair care treat I need right now: a reset for scalp and strands in the middle of the chilly season. It pairs a Rosemary pre-wash oil, a micro-exfoliating shampoo and a deep conditioning mask, which is everything I need to make my hair care that feels like self care.

“It doesn’t play around in the gloss department, so expect high shine,” says PureWow Beauty Editor, Chelsea Candelario. “However, the color is subtle, so if you want pigment you might want to apply lipstick first.” A glowing (pun-intended) review…but what if you do want more color and, dare we say, a more natural shine? Enter: the Glow Reviver Slipstick.

The latest in the e.l.f. Cosmetics Glow Reviver collection, Slipstick provides all the benefits of a lip oil, just in a twist-up, stick format. It glides on smooth with medium, buildable color and a soft shine. With ten shades to choose from, the hues range from baby pink “Pink-Me Energy” to black cherry “Jam Packed” and even tangerine “Tanger-sheen.” The nourishing formula is the star of the stick though, made from shea butter, squalene and jojoba oil for long-lasting hydration.

Glow Reviver Slipstick

e.l.f. Cosmetics

The lip oil sticks make for a great stocking stuffer, but we won’t judge if you simply stock-up on your own for the holiday season (and beyond).

ICYMI: Therabody, the brand that brought us the life-changing Theragun massager, also released the revolutionary TheraFace Pro (was $498; now $398), a compact device that will change the way you care for your face forever. Seriously. I was lucky enough to test it over a couple of weeks and let me just say, this baby is the real deal. 

If you’ve ever sheepishly wondered to yourself, Can I use the Theragun on my face? (you can’t), then you’ll want to get your hands on the TheraFace Pro ASAP—especially since it's currently on sale for $100 off (with *all* the attachments) at QVC.

Dr. Jason Wersland, Founder and Chief Wellness Officer of Therabody, spent years developing and designing this groundbreaking device for that very request. The eight-in-one, easy-to-use tool delivers the brand’s signature percussive therapy plus skin-enhancing modalities like microcurrent and red LED light. I was sold from the get-go—but here's everything you need to know, whether you're hoping to grab it for yourself or gift it to someone else this holiday season.

Want to know which buzzy products are *really* worth buying? Sign up for our shopping newsletter to uncover our favorite finds.

QVC

If you didn’t already know, your face has a lot of muscles. For that very reason, it’s best not to think of this as just another skincare gadget on the market. The TheraFace Pro is designed to address deep tension in your muscles while also promoting facial tone and healthy skin.

In fact, it's meant to offer all the benefits of many of our favorite skincare tools—gua sha, jade roller, cleansing brush, skin-toning microcurrent therapy, red, blue and red+infrared light therapy and spa-like hot and cold technology—all in one little appliance. How does it do it? The handheld gadget uses magnetic, interchangeable attachments to address all your concerns in, quite literally, a snap. If you need some extra help, Therabody has step-by-step video tutorials on how to use the tool depending on your skin's unique needs.

I was shocked (to say the least) at how easy the TheraFace Pro was to use. After a few gos at it, I was able to work my way up in intensity for the percussive therapy. It felt like a facial massage, workout and spa session all at the same time.

The best part about it? Besides the hot and cold rings that depuff and sculpt my face (a $110 value that's included in this marked-down QVC bundle), I don’t have to drive anywhere, purchase multiple devices or schedule an appointment to receive these treatments. So while the TheraFace Pro is definitely a splurge, it’s a great investment for skincare lovers who want to bring the spa home to them.

See the TheraFace Pro in Action

On this episode of Take My Money, host Kate Kesselman tested out the viral device and each of its six attachments. Watch the video above to see the TheraFace Pro in action.

$350 and Four Weeks Later: How the Shark CyroGlow Face Mask Calms My Acne-Prone Skin

Why You Should Trust Us

PureWow's editors and writers have spent more than a decade shopping online, digging through sales and putting our home goods, beauty finds, wellness picks and more through the wringer—all to help you determine which are actually worth your hard-earned cash. From our PureWow100 series (where we rank items on a 100-point scale) to our painstakingly curated lists of fashion, beauty, cooking, home and family picks, you can trust that our recommendations have been thoroughly vetted for function, aesthetics and innovation. Whether you're looking for travel-size hair dryers you can take on-the-go or women’s walking shoes that won’t hurt your feet, we’ve got you covered.

As a lifelong psoriasis sufferer, I have had my fair share of scalp and hair battles. The condition causes itching, dryness and flakes (which end up in my hair), and never actually goes away but evolves/changes with time. I have tried countless products, but have seen my money literally go down the drain more times than I care to count. Still, I am constantly on the lookout for new solutions that can make my condition easier to deal with, which is why I jumped at the opportunity to give Purist, a company that specializes in natural hair and scalp treatments, a try.

Want to save *big* this shopping season? Sign up for our Deal of the Day email to get all the best sales delivered straight to your inbox.

Known for its plant-powered products rich in vitamins and herbs from Aloe to black seed, Purist focuses on formulas that provide long-term treatment of buildup, dryness, flakes, breakage and hair loss without the use of harsh chemicals or filler ingredients, making them a great (and safe) choice for those looking to switch up their routine.

Jael Rucker for PureWow

I have now reached the point in my psoriasis journey where I have to see my hairdresser every week for a scalp cleanse and deep conditioning. Upon chatting with her, I decided to try the brand’s Ultimate Flake Trio ($78; $66), a three-step solution that comes with the Pure scalp mask ($24), the Pure scalp shampoo ($28) and the Pure scalp spray ($28).  Following the instructions, my stylist started with the mask, which the company says detoxifies the scalp and combats fungus and bacteria, while also supporting healthy hair growth.

Jael Rucker for PureWow

My stylist left the mask in my hair for about 20 minutes before rinsing. Afterward, we used the shampoo. The typical process for my hair is to do two rinses of shampoo to make sure all of the excess flakes and buildup are removed. From there, she blow-dried my hair and applied the scalp spray, which promises soothing relief from itchiness sans any greasiness, before flat-ironing.

Jael Rucker for PureWow

After she was done, I immediately noticed a difference. Not only were the flakes gone, but my scalp was less red and irritated than it normally is, while my hair felt more lightweight and definitely bouncier. With a condition like psoriasis, however, it takes more than one use to notice longer-term results.

Jael Rucker for PureWow

That said, whereas my psoriasis flakes normally start to return a day or two after seeing my stylist, I noticed after the first use that it took about three days for the flakes and irritation to return, meaning the results were enough to almost carry me over to my next weekly hair appointment. My stylist and I have continued doing this routine over the past month or so, and now my scalp/hair has reached the point where my flare-ups are timed perfectly with my weekly appointments. There are also considerably fewer flakes present with each flare-up as the weeks go by.

Purist

As I mentioned before, psoriasis is a lifelong condition that isn’t totally curable. On top of that, flare-ups can be influenced by factors such as stress, weather (extreme heat and cold), hormonal changes and more. As such, I know it will never go away, but so far, using Purist has significantly reduced the issues I have with it, which has been a major lifesaver. If you, too, are struggling with scalp psoriasis or simply tend to get dry skin, buildup and flakiness, I would definitely recommend giving Purist's Ultimate Flake system a try.

15 Beauty Gifts for Tweens That Are Low-Key Cool

Why You Should Trust Us

PureWow's editors and writers have spent more than a decade shopping online, digging through sales and putting our home goods, beauty finds, wellness picks and more through the wringer—all to help you determine which are actually worth your hard-earned cash. From our PureWow100 series (where we rank items on a 100-point scale) to our painstakingly curated lists of fashion, beauty, cooking, home and family picks, you can trust that our recommendations have been thoroughly vetted for function, aesthetics and innovation. Whether you're looking for travel-size hair dryers you can take on-the-go or women’s walking shoes that won’t hurt your feet, we’ve got you covered.

For more than a decade, two hairstylists have been at the heart of that journey: Yene Damtew and Njeri Radway. Damtew, a renowned beauty expert, salon owner, and longtime personal hairstylist to the Obama family, has spent nearly twenty years redefining what modern, healthy, inclusive beauty looks like. Radway, a precision-cutting specialist and celebrated natural-hair artist, has helped craft Obama’s most talked-about looks since 2010.

In my recent candid conversation, Damtew and Radway discuss Michelle’s evolution from nostalgic childhood styles to the political polish of the White House, and ultimately to the braids era she embraces today. Here, the two reflect on the beauty of helping one of the most influential women of our time show up as her truest self.

Carl Ray

When you think about Michelle Obama’s evolution with hair over the years, what stands out most to you?

Yene Damtew: When you think about her evolution through the book, it starts off with her and childhood hairstyles that I think are very nostalgic to every Black girl around the world.

In reading her journey,  it made me remember when I was younger, and feeling that rite of passage when I got my hair relaxed. And then I wore braids. And then into adulthood, when I had professional jobs, I was always thinking, do I have a polished look? Her experience was just like mine.  

I learned, Michelle is not a celebrity—she doesn’t have a bob and then a bust down the next day. Everything she says is realistic to the everyday woman, and I think that’s what makes her journey unique and relatable.

How did you approach crafting her White House looks versus her modern, braid-forward styles?

Damtew: During her White House days, her primary hairstylist was Johnny Wright, and I assisted him. Michelle wanted a recognizable look and continuity with her hair. Johnny used to refer to it as a political silhouette; she wanted her message to be the focus. So it was never about the hair, it was never about fashion. It was about what she was saying and what she was doing. But now her look has evolved. 

Njeri Radway: Her wearing braids now is more so about freedom; whether it’s swimming or playing tennis or just exercising in general, it’s one less thing she has to worry about.

Damtew: And it’s also about the freedom to [finally] be in control of her hair and image.

Is there a behind-the-scenes moment with Michelle Obama that has stayed with you?

Damtew: Njeri and I were both in our early twenties when we were introduced to this family and she has continued to pour into us. I’m pregnant, and even earlier today she was asking about my doctor appointments. She’s been there through our heartaches, heartbreaks, marriages, children. That support, that love, the wisdom she drops—that’s the standout.

Carl Ray

Which chapter in The Look feels most meaningful from a hair and style standpoint?

Damtew: I think that hair journey section is the story of so many women.

Radway: I agree. Reading it, I’m like, wow, we pretty much have the same story. It’s almost like a form of trauma bonding—getting hit in the head with a comb, catching your ear with the hot comb, but also the bonding moments. Yene, Michelle and myself all grew up in very different places, yet our stories and experiences with hair are all the same.

Where do you hope textured-hair conversations go in the next five to ten years?

Radway: I just want for women, especially Black women, to embrace who they are naturally. And do it confidently.

Damtew: Within the texture community there’s this divisiveness of the straight, natural versus the natural, natural and I hope the community becomes more unified. To me, having healthy hair is about having the versatility to straighten it, wear it curly, wear braids, or lock it. That’s your right.

What do you hope readers take away from The Look?

Damtew: My hope is that The Look inspires readers to have hair conversations. I hope it opens up a conversation for us to also question why it’s so easy to pick apart someone as opposed to just celebrating who they are.

We Can’t Stop Talking About Michelle Obama’s Hair at the Inauguration (and Bless the Stylist for Sharing Her Tips)