Category: HEALTHY-NUTRITION

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I vividly remember being a preteen, hunting for glittery accessories at the mall to round out a colorful back-to-school outfit. It was a simpler time, full of real, unencumbered joy (probably because I had no concept of bills or current events). Fast-forward to more than a decade later: In spring 2026, life is decidedly more complicated, but nail art is channeling the bliss of being young and responsibility-free.

According to pros, this season’s manicures remix the patterns many of us loved growing up, such as glitter and stripes, but with a refined update that’s fit for 2026. “The general vibe for nail art this spring is playful and expressive,” says Sarah Chue, a nail artist in Los Angeles. Expect layered cat-eye polishes that shift in the light, sprinkled-on gem accents, and animal prints that feel sophisticated instead of gaudy.

Before you assume we’re headed into full-on maximalism, think again. “It’s less about heavy designs and more about color, placement, and small details,” says Elise McKenna Jacobs, a New York-based nail artist. Picture gems scattered on a neutral base, a stripe that curves just off center, and a veil of shimmer over a milky pastel.

Texture is also taking center stage. Fluted surfaces and silky cat-eye effects add dimension without being overwhelming. If the past few seasons were dominated by quiet luxury, spring 2026 is about embracing joyful details. Keep reading for the top 2026 nail art trends, according to experts.

Gem nails

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Fact: Everyone owned at least one colorfully bedazzled item in the ’80s and ’90s. Gem nails bring that sparkle to 2026. These manicures are glitzy and fun—more rainbow gem-studded jean jacket than Fabergé egg. Multicolor microstones, iridescent dots, and sparkle clusters are scattered over a sheer, neutral base for an effect that feels fun and celebratory, but not busy. Mixing jewel-toned accents with muted backgrounds makes the gems appear to float, almost like confetti frozen in midair.

Bana Jarjour, a nail artist in Los Angeles, opted for this look for her most recent birthday. “Rhinestones are big, and I love a bedazzled moment, especially when they’re different colors,” says Jarjour. “It’s somewhere between chrome nail art and a pierced nail charm,” she adds.

To get this look, you can artfully press rhinestone gems onto the nail using tweezers, then apply nail glue to secure them. For an easier option, opt for rhinestone nail stickers—Daily Charme and Teenitor have glitzy, colorful gems that add a touch of sparkle to any manicure.

Ribbed Nails

Instagram / @seisaikoboInstagram /@cqdnailsCourtesy of Art Nail NYC

This look captures the elegance of the reeded-glass panels in a mid-century modern home (or the fancy glasses you take out only during the holidays). “It takes the minimalist, solid-colored mani to the next level,” says Gianni Garcia, creative director at Art Nail NYC. Look closely and you’ll see this manicure has a shimmery cat-eye base, created using magnetic polish (which can mimic the way light refracts through glass). From there, slightly raised, translucent stripes are layered on top to re-create that signature ribbed texture.

“Use spider gel to make the stripes rather than just drawing them on with a thin liner brush—it’s quicker and gives you that true raised effect,” Garcia explains. He also recommends sealing the design with a matte topcoat once the stripes are set; the contrast between the velvety finish and the reflective base amplifies the illusion of depth.

While the trend is just beginning to gain traction stateside, soft textures in nail art have been popular in South Korea for some time—and they’re still going strong. “Textured gel is currently very popular. It works beautifully as an accent and has a refined, expressive finish,” Minseo Kang, a nail artist in Seoul, previously told Allure. Artists often use a small, flat brush with bristles that are denser at the base and finer at the tips—almost like a wide-tooth comb—to create ultra-precise ridges that feel architectural yet delicate.

Cat-eye Swirl Nails

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Behold, this spring’s most mesmerizing nail art trend: cat-eye swirls. The reflective, molten finish gives it a silk-like effect that’s sleek, fluid, and almost impossibly glossy. Think of it as the grown-up version of your favorite glitter polish. It’s more sophisticated and designed to catch the light from every angle.

To create the look, Chue recommends, mentally divide the nail into three or four sections, and work in stages with a magnetic polish. (We’re big fans of the DND 9D Cat Eye Glassball polishes for their glossy finish and long wear time.) “Apply the polish one section at a time, use your magnet to create the cat-eye at whatever angle you like, then cure before moving on,” she explains. “Repeat until the entire nail is covered, then finish with a high-gloss gel topcoat.” The sectional approach allows the light-reflecting pigments to shift in multiple directions, enhancing that silk-like movement.

For a textured finish, Garcia suggests, start with a cat-eye base, and layer cured, clear finishing gel in soft, swirling lines across the nail. The slightly raised details amplify the silky visual by adding even more dimension.

Striped Nails

Instagram / @amyguynailartistInstagram / @beautyspace_charlotteInstagram / @setsbyseniaVanity Projects Miami

For spring 2026, this preppy, linear motif is getting a modern refresh through unexpected placement, mixed finishes, and subtle color play—all while still feeling nostalgic.

Instead of allover stripes, expect to see razor-thin metallic stripes (like the barcode nail trend coming out of South Korea), curved bands that arc diagonally across a sheer base, or contrasting matte and gloss stripes layered in the same shade for a barely-there effect. We’ve also been seeing striped French manicures in clashing colors, reminiscent of those striped-turtleneck sweaters from the early aughts that you'd buy during a back-to-school sale.

If you have a class picture where you're wearing said sweater that haunts you (we’ve been there), don’t worry; this season’s stripes feel intentional and refined, not overwhelming. The result is a graphic manicure that’s equal parts fun and wearable.

Animal Prints

Instagram / @nailartbyqueenieVanity ProjectsCourtesy of _citre

Animal prints may be perennial, but the way we’re wearing them isn’t. In 2025, it was all about bold statements, with splotchy cow spots and gritty reptilian textures leading the trend. For 2026, though, artists are forecasting something more delicate: fine-lined, whisper-thin animal motifs that feel subtle and soft.

The shift is already underway as deer nails quietly take over our feeds. This look features petite fawn spots, soft woodland hues, and barely-there detailing that feels distinctly spring-coded.

That doesn’t mean the drama is disappearing completely. “There is a resurgence of tiger-print nails,” says Rita Pinto, owner of New York City nail salon Vanity Projects. And since it’s the year of the Fire Horse, this trend is apt. Lean into the heat fully by placing thin vein-like stripes over a red-orange base, or opt for a more hyperrealistic look with a cooper-toned brown polish layered with black stripes.

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If there has been one major manicure trend of the last year-plus, it's the cat-eye nail. The prismatic, shape-shifting manicure style, which is created with the help of a special magnet, is easily customizable and can be soft and subtle or bright and vivid. Demi Lovato's latest set is the perfect example of how versatile the cat-eye manicure can be—and how it can make you look like you're wearing luxurious velvet on your nails.

Lovato turned to her go-to manicurist, Natalie Minerva, for a pretty, romantic manicure that is absolutely going straight to the top of my spring nail inspo board. To start, Minerva shaped the musician's nails into short, rounded almonds and applied a nude-mauve base color, then magnetized the mani to create that signature frosted aesthetic now synonymous with cat-eye nails. The base color is light and neutral, so it would easily work for any nail-related occasion, but the shimmer effect adds a hint of dreamy, velvety texture to each nail, as though they'd been dipped in the fabric itself.

The “subtle but elevated” manicure is a hallmark for Minerva and Lovato, who have crafted some of our fave manis of late. (Do the words “ghost jelly nails” or “dolphin skin nails” mean anything to you? They should!) At the Grammys, Minerva applied the classic neutral OPI Bare My Soul to Lovato's nails but outlined each one with thin strokes of Black Onyx for just the right amount of edginess, and did the same with rhinestones for a glitzy, glam mani during the holidays.

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The best part of Lovato's mauve liquid velvet manicure isn't the color or the texture, as delightful as they are; it's that the singer and Minerva are “rockin the same vibes” with matching friendship manicures! Say it with us: Aww! Are friendship cat-eye manicures the new friendship bracelets? We're obviously on board.

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**Update: February 18, 2026: **There's been a new development surrounding the future of Pat McGrath Labs. A little over three weeks after filing for Chapter 11 bankruptcy, it was announced that the brand secured a $30 million investment from US-based financial firm GDA Luma, after being approved by a Miami-based bankruptcy court. The funding “marks the beginning of a new phase of strong stewardship and long-term growth,” according to a press release released by GDA Luma.

The transaction injects $10 million debtor-in-possession (DIP) financing into the brand, which will allow the company to continue operating, reorganize, and pay off debts. It also commits $20 million in “post-emergence working capital" to ensure it has enough cash flow to operate smoothly.

As part of the deal, GDA Luma—which focuses on “special situations investment" and “restructuring," according to its website—will continue to hold a controlling interest in the company upon exit. Founder Pat McGrath will transition from chief executive to chief creative officer, retaining a “significant” stake in the brand and thus “preserving the artistic leadership and creative DNA that define the brand," GDA Luma said via press release.

“Together, Pat McGrath Labs and GDA Luma are committed to a future defined by uncompromising quality, desirability, and relentless innovation—reinforcing the brand not only as a trendsetter, but as a house that defines the direction of beauty itself,” GDA Luma said in the press release. "The company looks forward to an exciting pipeline of product launches beginning in the first quarter of 2026, driving renewed creative energy and commercial momentum across categories.”

**Original Story: Published January 26, 2026: **Pat McGrath Labs has filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy. The brand was set to be sold at an asset sale on January 27; this sale has now been postponed. “Pat McGrath Labs announced that it has commenced a financial restructuring under Chapter 11 of the US Bankruptcy Code,” the brand confirms in a statement issued to Allure. “The company’s secured lender’s scheduled auction for company assets has been postponed indefinitely.”

The brand, which was founded by legendary makeup artist Dame Pat McGrath, launched in 2015 with a multipurpose gold paint called Gold 001. After the initial success of Gold 001, the line grew to include everything from eye shadow palettes to bullet lipsticks to a “glass glow” face spray inspired by the viral doll skin McGrath created for a 2024 Maison Margiela runway show.

As noted by WWD, Pat McGrath Labs received $60 million in funding from the private equity investment firm Eurazeo Brands in 2018 and was valued at more than $1 billion at that time. In addition to its direct-to-consumer website, the brand was sold at Sephora and Ulta. In the past year alone, it has collaborated with franchises such as Bridgerton and Candy Crush on exclusive product lines, and has been responsible for the beauty in many big pop culture moments, such as Taylor Swift's glittery “Bejeweled” music-video glam. Swift is also a rumored fan of the brand's LiquiLust Legendary Matte Lipstick in shade Elson 4.

"Everybody was on my case about [starting a brand] for a thousand years," McGrath told Allure in 2021. "'Where's your brand? Where's your brand?' Then [with Instagram], I couldn't avoid them. It was constant torment. Every morning I'd wake up, and it was… 'Where’s your brand, Mother?'" In addition to her work as a makeup artist, McGrath also signed on as creative director for La Beauté Louis Vuitton in 2025.

Chapter 11 bankruptcy is often used by businesses to help them reorganize, restructure, and get a handle on finances to fulfill debts. Pat McGrath Labs isn't the only beauty brand to have filed Chapter 11; Revlon did so in 2022 and has since emerged. In 2024, Avon filed Chapter 11 to settle talc-based lawsuits, though the filing did not impact the United States branch of the business. Forma Brands, parent company of Morphe and r.e.m. beauty, filed for Chapter 11 in 2023, and exited a few months later, when r.e.m. founder Ariana Grande acquired the brand for around $15 million.

Clearly, this filing does not spell the end of Pat McGrath Labs. For now, you can still purchase the brand's products on its website, Sephora, and Ulta. “During this process, the company will continue operations in the ordinary course of business while working to restructure its balance sheet and to forge a path to thrive," reads the brand's statement. “Pat McGrath Labs remains committed to its community, customers, partners, and stakeholders as it continues delivering its signature, high-quality products and culture-defining artistry and innovation."

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Don’t attack me, but I didn’t know what hemorrhoids were until last year, during my third trimester of pregnancy. I quickly became well-acquainted with the condition—swollen veins in the anus and lower rectum—thanks to the pressure from my growing uterus and baby. By two months postpartum, I was scraping the bottom of my last tub of hemorrhoid cream, certain I’d never have to see (or say) the word again. I was wrong.

Lately, my TikTok For You page has been flooded with women slathering hemorrhoid cream everywhere except where it was intended—most notably under their eyes and across fine lines—claiming it can tighten skin and smooth wrinkles. It’s not the first time people have come on the app talking about butt paste, either. Back in 2022, we’d reported that people were using the stuff to tackle undereye puffiness. While there is some logic behind that claim, dermatologists say the reality is far more complicated.

The trend has migrated south, from the undereye area to the neck. One comment on a TikTok video of a woman using a generic brand of hemorrhoid cream reads, “I was a derm nurse, and my 83-year-old dermatologist always recommended this to his patients when asked if there are nonsurgical options for turkey neck.” “I’m just gonna use it as an overall body lotion at this point,” another user writes.

So what exactly is giving people the impression that this is some sort of miracle cream? “Many [hemorrhoid creams] contain vasoconstrictors like phenylephrine, which temporarily shrink blood vessels,” says Mona Gohara, MD, a board-certified dermatologist in New York City. “That fleeting tightening effect can look like improvement on the skin.” In other words, the smoothing effect is real—but it’s short-lived. “It’s a cosmetic sleight of hand,” she adds. “There’s no true skin change.”

While it may be tempting to treat hemorrhoid cream as a multitasking fix, dermatologists advise against it. “The risks outweigh the benefits,” says Dr. Gohara. “The formulas in hemorrhoid creams can be irritating, disrupt the skin barrier, and over time may even thin the skin, especially if they contain topical steroids, which some hemorrhoid products do.”

That last point is especially important. According to Dr. Gohara, skin laxity and sagging are driven by collagen loss, elastin breakdown, sun damage, muscle banding, and overall structural changes—not just surface-level swelling. Temporarily constricting blood vessels won’t address any of that. In fact, repeatedly irritating delicate areas like the neck could potentially worsen crepey texture over time.

Ellen Marmur, MD, a board-certified dermatologist in New York City, also warns that, in addition to phenylephrine, some hemorrhoid creams may contain hydrocortisone, an ingredient that should absolutely not go on your face. "Hydrocortisone can be absorbed through the skin into the bloodstream to cause systemic side effects in other parts of your body," De Anne Harris Collier, MD, a Florida-based, board-certified dermatologist, previously told Allure."Because hydrocortisone is a steroid, usage over time can affect your adrenal glands, which are responsible for your body’s response to stress." Dr. Collier adds.

There are safer, more effective ways to address your skin concerns. For neck tightening and sagging, try neck firming creams with retinol; for puffy undereyes, try peptide eye creams; for fine lines and wrinkles, try creams with hyaluronic acid, ceramides, and retinol.

The promise of temporary tightening may be tempting, but for real results—and healthier skin—dermatologist-backed options are the smarter investment. So, leave the hemorrhoid cream behind!

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Using the best shampoos and conditioners for color-treated hair is a foundational step for ensuring your pricey bleach-and-dye treatments (or complicated at-home color jobs) maintain their salon-fresh vibrancy. Whether you've lost count of how many times you've dyed your hair or just colored it for the first time, you might be aware that not every shampoo and conditioner will be kind to your tinted strands, which is where these color-friendly cleansers (many of which are sulfate-free) and conditioners step in.

Long story short, color-safe shampoos are formulated to provide a gentle cleanse to get rid of buildup, flakes, and oil, without stripping your faux pigments away. And, while their main job is color preservation, their counterpart conditioners are infused with additional moisture-replenishing ingredients to ensure your strands feel as good as they look post-wash. Below, check out the best shampoos and conditioners for colored hair protection, many of which also have stamps of approval from our favorite professional colorists.

Our Top Shampoos and Conditioners for Color-Treated Hair

• Best Overall: Pureology Hydrate Moisturizing Shampoo and Conditioner, $76
• Best for Blondes: Biolage Professional Hair Spa Color Last Shampoo & Conditioner, $52
• Best for Graying Hair: Roz Foundation Shampoo ($39) and Mask ($48)
• Best for Oily Hair: K18 Peptide Prep Detox Shampoo, $39
• Best Drugstore: L'Oréal Paris EverPure Moisture Shampoo and Conditioner, $18
• Best for Fine Hair: Kevin Murphy Everlasting Color Shampoo ($45) and Rinse ($47)
• Best for Chemically-Treated Hair: Oribe Shampoo and Conditioner for Beautiful Color, $101
• Best for Dry Hair: Nexxus Color Assure Shampoo and Conditioner, $20 each

Frequently Asked QuestionsAccordionItemContainerButtonLargeChevron

• What causes hair color to fade?
• What are sulfates, and are they bad for color-treated hair?
• How is shampoo for colored hair different than "regular" shampoos?
• Which shampoo is right for my hair color?
• Meet the experts
• How we test and review products
• Our staff and testers

Best Overall: Pureology Hydrate Moisturizing Shampoo and Conditioner

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Pureology

Hydrate Moisturizing Shampoo and Conditioner

$76

Amazon

Why we like it: Whether you have just a touch of subtle highlights or a full head of faux color, Pureology’s Hydratrate Moisturizing Shampoo and Conditioner is up for the task. This Allure Best of Beauty Award-winning duo is one of our all-time favorite in-shower combos for its brass-busting lavender tint and creamy jojoba oil-powered formulas that leave hair impressively smooth. Both formulas also contain antioxidant-rich green tea and sage extracts to hydrate strands while supporting scalp health. Keep in mind that the original formula might be too heavy for finer hair types, but no sweat: Pureology also makes lightweight options specifically for thinner hair.

Tester feedback from Allure beauty director Sarah Kinonen

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“As someone who washes their hair once a week, my shampoo-and-conditioner selection is super important. I have long, fine, color-treated hair, so it has a lot of needs: hydration, damage control, and color protection. This Pureology duo does all of the above and more with an earthy (shampoo) and minty (conditioner) scent that lingers long past the last rinse. I typically double- (and sometimes even triple-) shampoo because of how dirty and oily my hair gets during the week. I love that this one lathers fast—I’m pro suds (and sulfates)! As for the conditioner, I like to use it as more of a mask, raking it through my mids to my ends, and then letting it marinate while I shave my legs. The result is always soft, shiny, and super-clean hair.” —Sarah Kinonen, beauty director

More to know

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• Key ingredients: jojoba oil, green tea extract, sage extract
• Sulfate-free: yes
• Who it's for: all hair types

Best for Blondes: Biolage Professional Hair Spa Color Last Shampoo & Conditioner

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Biolage

Professional Hair Spa Color Last Shampoo & Conditioner

$52

Amazon

Why we like it: Biolage’s Professional Hair Spa Color Last Shampoo & Conditioner features moisturizing soybean oil and stearic acid, an ingredient that acts like a lightweight barrier over your strands to protect color from fading. Together, they maintain your color’s luster for weeks, making it a bit more feasible to stretch out the time between your salon appointments (no wonder it won an Allure Best of Beauty Award in 2025). As its key ingredients seal in much-needed moisture and assist in preserving color, its formula gently washes away dirt, oil, and buildup as you lather. Though it’s not a purple shampoo, our blonde-haired testers found that this duo amps up brightness without leading to brassiness or stripped color, making it a great option for lighter hair colors.

Tester feedback from senior director of commerce audience & analytics Lexi Herrick

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“This Biolage shampoo-and-conditioner combo has become one of my absolute staples. Its quality is unmatched, and every moment of applying this product screams salon luxury. It provides a thorough clean and deep-conditioning, smells amazing, and brightens my blonde almost instantly. As someone who has been actively trying to delay my highlights appointments, I can visibly see this product extending the life of my color over time.” —Lexi Herrick, senior director of commerce audience and analytics

More to know

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• Key ingredients: soybean oil, stearic acid
• Sulfate-free: no
• Who it's for: blondes and lighter hair colors, dry hair

Best for Graying Hair: Rôz Foundation Shampoo and Mask

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RŌZ

Foundation Shampoo and Mask

$39

Amazon (Shampoo)

$48

Amazon (Mask)

Why we like it: This duo isn't necessarily billed for color-treated hair, but we've found that the sulfate-free (and Best of Beauty Award-winning) shampoo and reparative mask work wonders for color-treated hair, too. The Rôz Foundation Shampoo relies on coconut-derived surfactants to dislodge grime and oil, while ceramides keep both scalp and strands soft and comfortable. The silicone-free Rôz Foundation Mask, meanwhile, hydrates and repairs hair from mid-lengths to ends, thanks to a base of vitamin E-rich coconut oil and strengthening rice bran extract. Both can be critical for those with grays, which tend to be coarse, dry, and even wiry. That said, our tester recommends subbing the conditioner in for the mask if you have fine or thinning hair, since the mask might be too heavy for daily use.

Tester feedback from Allure executive beauty director Jenny Bailly

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“My long hair is balayaged into a blend of gray and blonde–and it looks and feels so smooth when I use this shampoo and mask. It's not billed as a combo for color-treated hair but it's gentle and moisturizing so certainly fits the bill. The shampoo sudses up beautifully (I usually do two) and a dollop of the mask is enough for my currently almost-bra-strap-length hair (I usually comb it through and leave it in a couple minutes before rinsing). The citrus-y, fig-y scent is a joy in the morning, and the packaging is chic and understated without trying too hard to be sleek and fancy. I'm not saying I worked my recent bathroom reno around this duo, I'm just saying that light blue does look great in my new shower.” —Jenny Bailly, executive beauty director

More to know

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• Key ingredients: ceramides, coconut oil, rice bran extract
• Sulfate-free: yes
• Who it's for: those transitioning to gray or with color-treated gray hair

Best for Oily Hair: K18 Peptide Prep Clarifying Detox Shampoo

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K18

Peptide Prep Clarifying Detox Shampoo

$39

Amazon

$39

Sephora

Why we like it: K18’s Peptide Prep Clarifying Detox Shampoo effortlessly removes any dirt, oil, and product buildup lingering on your scalp and strands without disturbing your hair's natural pH—and therefore improves color retention. As activated charcoal absorbs oil, salicylic acid and plant-derived surfactants break down product buildup and flakes. The brand’s star ingredient, a proprietary form of elasticity-boosting peptides, supports broken bonds along the hair shaft, minimizing bleach-, chemical-, and heat-related damage and all their unwanted effects (read: brittleness, dullness, brassiness). K18 doesn't have a dedicated conditioning counterpart for this formula, but the Damage Shield Protective Conditioner defends hair against UV rays, breakage, and environmental aggressors for up to three days.

Tester feedback from Allure contributor Jennifer Hussein

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“I’m very prone to flakes and oil, so when my faux-blonde hair needs a deeper buildup-busting cleanse, I whip out this shampoo. It has a similar gel-like texture to the dandruff shampoos I’ve sworn by when my hair was in its virgin state, and it gives my scalp the deep cleanse it needs without leaving my hair dry and brittle afterwards. No parched strands here!” —Jennifer Hussein, contributor

More to know

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• Key ingredients: K18 peptide, activated charcoal, salicylic acid, plant-derived surfactants (sodium C14-16 olefin sulfonate)
• Sulfate-free: no—does not contain sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS) or sodium laureth sulfate (SLES) but does contain sodium C14-16 olefin sulfonate
• Who it's for: anyone with any form of hair damage

Best Drugstore: L'Oréal Paris EverPure Moisture Shampoo and Conditioner

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L'Oréal Paris

EverPure Moisture Shampoo and Conditioner

$16

Amazon

$18

Walmart

Why we like it: When it comes to drugstore darlings for color-treated hair, we can't fail to mention L'Oréal Paris's EverPure Moisture Shampoo—and New York City-based colorist Nikki Ferrara agrees. While it's powerful enough to remove product buildup at the roots, this gentle formula lathers beautifully and is infused with rosemary oil for its color-preserving, antioxidant-rich benefits, giving higher-end formulas a run for their money. And since it actively moisturizes hair, it leaves strands delightfully soft and shiny.

More to know

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• Key ingredients: rosemary oil
• Sulfate-free: yes
• Who it's for: people with dry hair, or those looking for extra shine

Best for Fine Hair: Kevin Murphy Everlasting Color Wash and Rinse

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Kevin Murphy

Everlasting Color Wash and Rinse

$45 $42 (7% off)

Amazon (Wash)

$48

Amazon (Rinse)

Why we like it: If you need a lightweight shampoo and conditioner that won’t weigh down fine hair, New York City-based colorist Abby Haliti suggests swapping your usual in-shower duo with Kevin Murphy’s Everlasting Color Shampoo and Rinse. She shouts out this sulfate‑free duo for its hydrating and color-preserving properties and its lightweight, easy-to-rinse texture. “Botanical extracts and antioxidants work together to lock in pigment and improve overall hair condition,” she says. “Their lightweight formulas ensure smooth manageability without dulling shine, making it a reliable choice for color‑treated routines.”

More to know

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• Key ingredients: phytic acid, rice extract, hydrolyzed quinoa extract
• Sulfate-free: yes
• Who it's for: fine and thinning hair types

Best for Chemically-Treated Hair: Oribe Shampoo and Conditioner for Beautiful Color

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Oribe

Shampoo and Conditioner for Beautiful Color

$101

Amazon

Why we like it: Oribe Shampoo and Conditioner for Beautiful Color duo is perfect for those with color-treated hair and other forms of chemical treatments like keratin straightening and perms, according to Ian McCabe, a Washington, D.C.-based colorist and owner of Navy Hair Studio. “This is a great option as it is sulfate-free and safe for those with a keratin treatment,” he says. That’s all thanks to its lightweight, non-stripping formula that’s boosted with the brand’s Signature Complex, a blend of antioxidant-rich watermelon, lychee, and edelweiss flower extracts. For added hydration, both formulas also contain baobab tree extract. “It smells amazing and leaves the hair so shiny,” adds McCabe.

More to know

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• Key ingredients: Oribe Signature Complex (watermelon, lychee, and edelweiss flower extracts), baobab tree extract, bioflavinoids
• Sulfate-free: yes
• Who it's for: all hair types

Best for Dry Hair: Nexxus Color Assure Shampoo and Conditioner

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Nexxus

Color Assure Shampoo and Conditioner

$20

Ulta Beauty (Shampoo)

$20

Ulta Beauty (Conditioner)

Why we like it: Imagine washing your hair (and conditioning it, of course) 40 times after coloring it and still seeing the same vibrancy and richness after stepping out of the shower. It seems far-fetched, but it's exactly what the Nexxus Color Assure Shampoo and Conditioner do. The formulas center on elastin protein and quinoa, a combo that helps retain your color's vividness. Amino acids, which are known to protect and fortify our hair strands’ natural bonds for strength and softness, are the structural blocks of the elastin proteins. You happen to lose some of your hair’s natural supply of the molecule during the coloring process, so consider this as your shine and smoothness insurance.

More to know

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• Key ingredients: elastin proteins, quinoa extract
• Sulfate-free: yes
• Who it's for: people with weak or breakage-prone hair

Frequently Asked Questions

What causes hair color to fade?

Extra care is a must for your dye job since there are a number of contributing factors when it comes to your color fading. Watch out for exposure to hard water, the overuse of heat-styling tools (and hot shower temperatures), and even UV rays. "The sun bleaches color out of everything, including your hair," St. Louis-based colorist Caitlin Ford tells Allure. "If you're going outside for extended periods of time, protect your scalp and hair with a hat," she adds. We also like to spritz on a little hair sunscreen to make sure we've covered all of our bases.

What are sulfates, and are they bad for color-treated hair?

Sulfates are cleansers that trap oil-based dirt so it can be rinsed away from skin or hair with water. They also happen to be the additives behind the lather and bubbles in shampoos, toothpastes, and soaps. Overall, the jury is still kind of out on whether they're harmful or not, but this group of ingredients is definitely known for its color-stripping effects.

While sulfates are usually given the side-eye—for example, they're a no-go, according to our very own Clean Best of Beauty seal—they aren't necessarily as bad for preserving your hair pigment as they're made out to be. Cosmetic chemist Randy Schueller previously told Allure that water is as damaging as any cleanser. "When your hair gets wet, it swells, the hair shaft opens, and some color leaches out," says Schueller, who tested sulfates against other surfactants and didn't see any notable differences in terms of fading color. (This is why many experts suggest washing your hair less often and spritzing dry shampoo to buy you extra time in between.)

However, the case against sulfates is still pretty valid — especially if you want to err on the side of caution. Not only are they irritating to the skin, but they are also capable of "stripping the [scalp] of its natural oils" a little too well, Aanand Geria, MD, a board-certified dermatologist in Rutherford, NJ, previously explained to Allure. In other words: Sulfates are a pretty slippery slope, leading to dryness and flaking.

How is shampoo for colored hair different than "regular" shampoos?

Like many experts, Ferrara is a fan of brands with sulfate-free offerings, as she says they will "extend the shelf life of your hair color and prevent fading." Los Angeles-based colorist and Redken brand ambassador Matt Rez previously shared that using sulfate-free shampoo will keep hair as hydrated as possible. Adding to the chorus is cosmetic chemist Ron Robinson, who told Allure that sulfates can dry hair out, which can be especially damaging after coloring. They'll also make your eyes burn if they accidentally slip in, which is a universally unpleasant experience.

All to say: Your best bet, when it comes to preserving your color, is to switch your regular shampoo with one that's specially formulated for color-treated hair. (Please, no clarifying shampoos.)

Which shampoo is right for my hair color?

We'll have to dabble in the color wheel theory to answer this question. Basically, complementary colors—or colors that are on opposite sides of the color wheel—neutralize each other. Therefore, you can use tinted shampoos, hair masks, and conditioners to balance brassy tones and dullness. "To counteract yellow hues, you need to use something that has violet in it; to counteract orange tones, you'll need to use blue hues," St. Louis, Missouri-based colorist Kristina Cheeseman previously told Allure. For minimizing brassy tones, a purple shampoo for blondes and a blue shampoo for brunettes are always your best bets.

Meet the experts

• Abby Haliti, a New York City-based hair colorist
• Ian McCabe, a Washington, D.C.-based colorist and owner of Navy Hair Studio
• Nikki Ferrara, a New York City-based hair colorist
• Danita Hampton, a North Carolina-based hairstylist and Covet & Mane Lead Educator
• Caitlin Ford, a St. Louis-based hair colorist
• Randy Schueller, a cosmetic chemist
• Aanand Geria, MD, a board-certified dermatologist in Rutherford, NJ
• Matt Rez, a Los Angeles-based colorist and Redken brand ambassador
• Ron Robinson, a cosmetic chemist
• Kristina Cheeseman, a St. Louis, Missouri-based hair colorist

How we test and review products

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

For our review of shampoos for colored hair, we enlisted the help of multiple editors, writers, contributors, and hair colorists—many of whom have or have had color-treated hair. Testers considered performance across four primary categories: efficacy, texture and experience, fragrance, and packaging. For more on what's involved in our reporting, check out our complete reviews process and methodology page.

Our staff and testers

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

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

$18 at SephoraSave StorySave this storySave StorySave this story

TL;DR:

• What it is: A bi-phase eye makeup remover
• What it does: Soaks off eyeliner, mascara, and eye shadow without causing sensitivity
• Who it’s for: Anyone looking for an eye makeup remover that can actually remove waterproof formulas

Aside from my trusty tubing mascara, I rarely wear eye makeup. (Brow products don’t count in this generalization.) But when I do, it’s usually some variation of a sparkly shadow for a special occasion.

On these nights (well, at the end of them), I skip my usual double-cleanse routine and instead reach for something stronger: a bi-phase eye makeup remover. It cuts through the glitter faster than my cleansing balm ever could.

I really like Sephora Collection Express Waterproof Makeup Remover, which is formulated with cornflower extract and castor oil soothe and moisturize lids and lashes, while silky silicones help obliterate said stubborn shadow (and sweatproof mascara and waterproof liquid liner).

To use, I give it a quick shake, then sprinkle a few drops onto a cotton round (or reusable cloth if I’m at home and not traveling) before gently pressing into (closed) eyelids. From there, I lightly move and massage the pads until all of the makeup has been transferred. Sometimes this process requires a couple of rinse-and-repeat steps, but for the most part, most of the makeup comes off in the first round—without causing any sort of irritation, which is a feat for my sensitive eyes!

You can find the Sephora Collection Express Waterproof Makeup Remover, along with other editor-loved products, in the February Allure Beauty Box.

Get The Box

Sephora Collection Express Waterproof Eye Makeup Remover

$18 at Sephora$18 at Sephora

$29.99 at AmazonSave StorySave this storySave StorySave this story

TL;DR:

• What it is: A K-beauty facial moisturizer
• What it does: Soothes, hydrates, and plumps skin
• Who it’s for: Anyone looking for a multitasking moisturizer

As a beauty director, my job is to test… everything. Fun, in theory, but chaotic in practice. There are just so many products, and so little of me. Or rather, so little room on my skin to try them all.

But no matter what I’m currently swatching, slathering, or sudsing up with, I always make an exception for K-beauty. Always! The technology used to create products in Seoul is far more advanced than the practices used in the US (sorry, not sorry: I said what I said), and for that, I’m always so intrigued.

Recently, I’ve been testing the Centellian 24 Madeca Cream Time Reverse, which is a multitasking moisturizer that really does do… a lot. (See? I’m already impressed!) It’s formulated with a cocktail of ingredients, like hydrating hyaluronic acid, plumping collagen, and soothing Centella asiatica (a.k.a. cica), but has this lovely, easily blendable texture. And for a product with such a potent ingredient list, you’d think it’d be heavy—instead it's surprisingly (and delightfully!) lightweight in texture and in finish.

A little goes a long way, so I usually only use a pea- to a dime-size dollop for both my face and neck. I have a feeling this tube is gonna last me a while…but I wouldn’t mind restocking via a trip to Seoul.

The Centellian 24 Madeca Cream Time Reverse was a gift with purchase for the February Allure Beauty Box.

Get The Box

Centellian 24 Madeca Cream Time Reverse

$29.99 at Amazon$29.99 at Amazon

$24 at Uzo BeautySave StorySave this storySave StorySave this story

TL;DR:

• What it is: Liquid eyeliner
• What it does: Creates sharp lines on (or around) eyelids to add definition to any eye look
• Who it’s for: Anyone looking for a crisp, waterproof liner that goes on smooth and doesn’t budge

I’m not going to lie: I don’t wear eyeliner. But my best friend does, so I phoned a friend for this review. Her liner preference is of the liquid variety, which, in my opinion, makes for the sharpest of cat eyes. You know, the ones sharp enough to k— a man… (Any Taylor Swift fans out there?)

The UZO Blaque Liquide Eyeliner is definitely one of those liners that helps create the fiercest of flicks. In fact, it makes mastering the skill a little easier. Its satin finish and ultrafine tip foster a smooth and precise glide across lids, while the waterproof formula ensures your work of art doesn’t budge, no matter the forecast.

To use, give the pen a quick shake to activate the ink, then draw a quick flick off the outer corner of your eye. Move to the middle of your lid and sweep the felt tip outward until the lines connect. Fill in to build up to your desired shape and thickness.

You can find the UZO Blaque Liquide Eyeliner, along with other editor-loved products, in the February Allure Beauty Box.

Get The Box

UZO Blaque Liquide Eyeliner

$24 at Uzo Beauty$24 at Uzo Beauty

Collage: Jemeria Davison; Source images: Courtesy of brandsSave StorySave this storySave StorySave this story

Bronzed, just-returned-from-vacation skin is always in style. But damage from strong sun rays and tanning beds? Not at all. Instead, we use the best self-tanners for a natural, sun-kissed glow that doesn't lead to wrinkles, sunspots, and elevated chances of skin cancer. After testing countless formulas over the years, we’ve determined that Dolce Glow’s Lusso Self-Tanning Mousse remains unbeatable—and the Express version is not far behind, if you're short on time. If mousses aren't your preferred texture, we have lotions, drops, wipes, and mists that will suit your fancy. Of course, they all fade evenly and beautifully over time, and as a (much-appreciated) bonus, most formulas smell quite lovely (think fresh and fruity!) and are eons better than your musty, chemical-forward formulas of years past.

Our Top Self-Tanners

• Best Overall: Dolce Glow Lusso Self-Tanning Mousse, $49
• Best Self-Tanner for Dry Skin: +Lux Unfiltered N°36 Supernatural Tanning Mousse, $48
• Best Express Self-Tanner: Dolce Glow Express 2-Hour Self-Tanning Mousse, $49
• Best Gradual Self-Tanner: Jergens Natural Glow Daily Moisturizer, $12
• Best Facial Self-Tanner: Tan-Luxe The Face Illuminating Self-Tan Drops, $50
• Best for Olive-Toned Skin: St. Tropez Self-Tan Supreme Violet, $48
• Best Tanning Wipes: Dr. Dennis Gross Alpha Beta Glow Pad Self Tanner for Body, $48
• Best Drugstore: L’Oréal Paris Sublime Bronze Self Tanning Mist, $13

Months of trial and error later (trust, we editors have had our fair share of streaky mishaps), we've narrowed down the absolute best at-home self-tanners for every face, body, and skin tone.

Frequently Asked QuestionsAccordionItemContainerButtonLargeChevron

• What are the best self-tanning tips?
• Is self-tanner bad for you?
• What should you look for in the best self-tanners?
• How long does self-tanner last?
• How do you achieve a streak-free tan with self-tanners?
• Can you put self-tanner on your face?
• How do you remove self-tanner?
• How do you get self-tanner off of your hands?
• Meet the experts
• How we test and review products
• About our staff and testers

Best Overall: Dolce Glow Lusso Self-Tanning Mousse

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Dolce Glow

Lusso Self-Tanning Mousse

$49

Nordstrom

$51

Revolve

Why it's worth it: We're not exaggerating when we say this is the best self-tanning mousse we've ever tried (it is an Allure Best of Beauty Award winner, after all). Dolce Glow’s Lusso Self-Tanning Mousse is a lightweight, velvety formula that glides on effortlessly and blends like a dream (thanks to the mitt applicator), leaving no streaks or patches behind. It’s packed with skin-loving ingredients like aloe vera and hydrating oils (like Australian macadamia), so our skin feels soft and nourished while we tan—plus, it has a subtle, fresh scent, instead of that typical self-tanner smell. The color payoff is also unreal: There’s no orange finish—just a flawless, bronzy glow that makes us look like we spent a week in Capri.

Former Allure shopping market editor Angela Trakoshis applying the Dolce Glow Lusso Self-Tanning Mousse

Angela Trakoshis

Trakoshis before and after applying the Dolce Glow Lusso Self-Tanning Mousse

Angela Trakoshis

Allure commerce writer Lily Wohlner applying the Dolce Glow Lusso Self-Tanning Mousse

Lily Wohlner

Wohlner before and after applying the Dolce Glow Lusso Self-Tanning Mousse

Lily Wohlner

Tester feedback from former shopping market editor Angela Trakoshis

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“I'm going to be real straight up here: There is no better self-tanner on the market than this one from Dolce Glow. I've been using it for probably about six months consistently, and I’m blown away. It doesn't smell, and my fiancé can attest to that. He hates every single self-tanner that I've ever used, and he’s never said a word about this one.” —Angela Trakoshis, former shopping market editor

Tester feedback from commerce writer Lily Wohlner

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“Even after testing 11 other formulas for our story on the best self-tanning mousse, I kept comparing everything back to this one, which is why it ultimately snagged my top spot. The lightweight formula glides on effortlessly, blending like a dream with zero streaks. It also skips the dreaded tanner stench, replaced by a subtle, fresh scent, so you can easily wear it out of the house while it develops. As the color soaked in, my skin felt soft and nourished—not dry and begging for moisture—thanks to aloe vera, jojoba oil, and Australian macadamia oil.” —Lily Wohlner, commerce writer

Pros & cons

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Pros	Cons
Lightweight, velvety formula	Must leave on for 6-8 hours for full color to develop
Leaves no streaks
Packed with skin-loving ingredients
Long-lasting color
Has a subtle, fresh scent
Leans olive, not orange

More to know

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• Type: mousse
• Key ingredients: aloe vera, jojoba oil, Australian macadamia oil, vitamin E, squalane
• Shades: 1
• Development time: 6 to 8 hours for full color
• Fragrance: fresh and light
• Lasts up to: 7 days

Best Self-Tanner for Dry Skin: +Lux Unfiltered N°36 Supernatural Tanning Mousse

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Lux Unfiltered

N°36 Supernatural Tanning Mousse

$48

Amazon

$48

Sephora

Why it's worth it: +Lux Unfiltered’s N°36 Supernatural Tanning Mousse is where skin care meets self-tanner. Infused with shea butter and antioxidants (courtesy of passionfruit oil), this tanning mousse doesn’t just offer a great color—it deeply hydrates our skin, leaving it soft, moisturized, and radiant. It also contains one of our favorite brightening ingredients, vitamin C, which makes skin look even glowier. And, we like that you can choose from two shades (medium or deep), so it’s more customizable for a wider range of skin tones.

Trakoshis applying the +Lux Unfiltered N°36 Supernatural Tanning Mousse

Angela Trakoshis

Trakoshis before and after applying +Lux Unfiltered N°36 Tanning Mousse

Angela Trakoshis

Wohlner applying the Lux Unfiltered N°36 Tanning Mousse

Lily Wohlner

Wohlner before and after applying Lux Unfiltered N°36 Tanning Mousse

Lily Wohlner

Tester feedback from Wohlner

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“You could let this sit for four hours for a lighter glow, but I like to max it out (can you tell I hate looking pasty?). I usually sleep in it, then rinse it off in the morning for an even, bright, streak-free finish. Since it soaks in for so long, the tan lasts a full seven days. And, when it does fade, it’s smooth and natural, with zero patchiness.” —Lily Wohlner, commerce writer

Pros & cons

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Pros	Cons
Infused with skin-loving ingredients	Requires full 8 hours for a dark tan
Super-moisturizing
Leaves behind a vibrant color
Smells like fresh blood orange
Not patchy
Comes in two different shades

More to know

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• Type: mousse
• Key ingredients: shea butter, passion fruit oil, vitamin C
• Shades: 1
• Development time: 4 to 6 hours
• Fragrance: fresh, beachy scent
• Lasts up to: 6 to 8 days

Best Express Self-Tanner: Dolce Glow Express 2-Hour Self-Tanning Mousse

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Dolce Glow

Express 2-Hour Self-Tanning Mousse

$49

Ulta Beauty

Why it's worth it: Dolce Glow’s new Express Mousse might just convert you to the dark, quick-developing tanner side. Unlike some express formulas that sacrifice depth or longevity, this one delivers rich, even color in a fraction of the time. It’s powered by DMI (dimethyl isosorbide), a plant-derived solvent that helps the ingredients in the tanner penetrate your skin and absorb more evenly, for a smooth, streak-free finish. A blend of glycerin, avocado oil, and prickly pear seed oil keeps skin hydrated and helps prevent patchiness, while sugarcane offers gentle exfoliation for a uniform glow. After just a two-hour development and rinse, the result is a believable, beachy bronze—no eight-hour wait required. Even better: There’s none of that dreaded self-tanner stink, just a light, floral fragrance that makes application surprisingly pleasant.

Wohlner applying the Dolce Glow Express 2-Hour Self-Tanning Mousse

Lily Wohlner

Wohlner before and after applying the Dolce Glow Express 2-Hour Self-Tanning Mousse

Lily Wohlner

Wohlner before applying the Dolce Glow Express Self-Tanning Mousse

Wohlner after applying the Dolce Glow Express Self-Tanning Mousse, leaving it on for two hours, and rinsing it off

Tester feedback from Wohlner

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“Because the Dolce Glow Mousse has an eight-hour development time (woof!), I was so excited when I heard the brand was launching an express version that develops in just two hours. I did have my suspicions that it wouldn’t be able to deliver the same lit-from-within glow with less time to develop, but I’ve never been happier to be so wrong. Considering how well my dark (but natural-looking) tan has lasted the past five days without any stench, streaks, or patchy fading, this has officially become my go-to for my weekly tan—or, frankly, anytime I can’t spend hours marinating in self-tanner—since it only requires a minimum of two hours. It was a bit patchy on my hands, but I think that one’s on me for washing my hands a few times after application.” —Lily Wohlner, commerce writer

Pros & cons

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Pros	Cons
Color develops in just 2 hours	Was a bit patchy on our tester’s hands
Contains exfoliating sugarcane
Color is deep and buildable
Hydrating ingredients reduce patchiness and streaking

More to know

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• Type: mousse
• Key ingredients: glycerin, avocado oil, prickly pear
• Shades: 1
• Development time: 2-3 hours
• Fragrance: fresh and light
• Lasts up to: 5 to 7 days

Best Gradual Self-Tanner: Jergens Natural Glow Daily Moisturizer

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Jergens

Natural Glow Daily Moisturizer

$12

Amazon

$12

Walmart

Trakoshis applying the Jergens Natural Glow Daily Moisturizer

Angela Trakoshis

Why it's worth it: The Jergens Natural Glow Daily Moisturizer is one of our favorite tanning lotions ever—and it has oodles of accolades (including multiple Allure Readers' Choice Awards) to prove it. Though this easy-to-blend cream has been around since the dawn of self-tanner time, it still delivers one of the most natural, hydrating glows on the market—and it costs less than half of many competitors. It imparts a believable bronze after a few uses and keeps skin moisturized, thanks to glycerin and vitamin E. Treat it like you would a regular lotion and use it daily for a light (never smelly) tan that lasts. It won’t develop into anything too dark—you’re left with a light, consistent glow that keeps those winter scaries away all season long.

Tester feedback from Trakoshis

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“To apply this tanner, I use my hands since it’s more of a lotion and work it into my body (and immediately wash my hands afterward, because the last thing I want is orange palms). Since this is a gradual self-tanner, it’s going to take days of application to see that tan some through—but once it does, trust the glow will have been worth the wait.” —Angela Trakoshis, former shopping market editor

Pros & Cons

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Pros	Cons
Under $15	Not as dark or long-lasting as a mousse
Moisturizing formula	Requires daily use for gradual color development
Color looks natural
Comes in two shades
Easy to blend

More to know

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• Type: gradual lotion
• Key ingredients: vitamin E, elastin, hydrating complex
• Shades: 2
• Development time: gradual build with daily use
• Fragrance: light floral scent
• Lasts up to: use daily for continuous results

Best Facial Self- Tanner: Tan-Luxe The Face Illuminating Self-Tan Drops

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Tan-Luxe

The Face Illuminating Self-Tan Drops

$50

Amazon

$50

Revolve

$55

Bluemercury

Why it's worth it: Our favorite part about Tan-Luxe’s The Face Illuminating Self-Tan Drops is how customizable they are. Just mix a few drops into your go-to face moisturizer in the morning or at night for an even glow, or apply it straight to your skin before moisturizing for a darker, more noticeable finish. The formula checks every box: nourishing ingredients like antioxidant-rich raspberry seed oil and vitamin E, two flexible shades, and a light, clean scent that won’t linger. It’s lightweight and blends in effortlessly, without any streaks or patches.

We love that the drops don’t leave a greasy or sticky feeling behind, so it’s totally undetectable when your face hits your pillow. The tan develops gradually, usually within a few hours, giving us a gorgeous glow without any orange undertones.

Trakoshis applying the Tan-Luxe The Face Illuminating Self-Tan Drops

Angela Trakoshis

Trakoshis 9 hours after using the Tan-Luxe The Face Illuminating Self-Tan Drops

Angela Trakoshis

Tester feedback from Trakoshis

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“This serum actually feels like skin care, so it’s so easy to implement into your routine. There are no streaks or weird orange payoff, so it looks like a believable tan, and its long-lasting wear is also impressive.” —Angela Trakoshis, former shopping market editor

Pros & cons

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Pros	Cons
Mixes in easily with moisturizer	Like most facial self- tanners, it doesn’t last as long as body tanners, due to constant face washing
Lightweight
Made with skin-loving ingredients
No sticky feeling left behind
No orange undertones

More to know

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• Type: drops
• Key ingredients: raspberry seed oil, aloe vera, vitamin E
• Shades: 2
• Development time: 4 to 6 hours
• Fragrance: minimal, fresh scent
• Lasts up to: 3 to 4 days

Best for Olive-Toned Skin: St. Tropez Self-Tan Supreme Violet

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St. Tropez

Self-Tan Supreme Violet

$45

Amazon

$48

Nordstrom

Why it's worth it: No orange hues here—we promise St. Tropez’s Self-Tan Supreme Violet steers clear. Purple tints in self-tanner (like this one has) can neutralize yellow tones in the skin that tend to come out during winter. This gives us some of the most realistic, olive-toned color we've ever seen from a bottle. The application is so smooth and easy: Use an application mitt to blend it in, and the formula glides on like silk, without streaks or patchiness. Plus, the tropical scent makes the process much more enjoyable. The color starts developing in just a few hours, and by the time it’s fully set, it’ll last for up to 10 days—and fade evenly, so you're not stuck with any uneven patches.

Trakoshis applying the St. Tropez Self-Tan Supreme Violet

Angela Trakoshis

Left arm is after applying the St. Tropez Self-Tan Supreme Violet and right arm is before

Angela Trakoshis

Pros & cons

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Pros	Cons
Offers an olive-toned color	Goes on super dark at first
Applies smoothly
Has a tropical scent
Color lasts for up to 10 days
Fades evenly

More to know

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• Type: mousse
• Key ingredients: hyaluronic acid, green tea extract
• Shades: 1
• Development time: 4 to 8 hours
• Fragrance: subtle, tropical scent
• Lasts up to: 10 days

Best Tanning Wipes: Dr. Dennis Gross Alpha Beta Glow Pad Self- Tanner for Body

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Dr. Dennis Gross Skincare

Alpha Beta Glow Pad Self- Tanner for Body

$48

Amazon

$48

Nordstrom

More to know: Wish your tanning mitt came preloaded with self-tanner? Dr. Dennis Gross’s Alpha Beta Glow Pad Self-Tanner for Body is as close as it gets. Each oversized towelette is saturated with just the right amount of formula, so all you have to do is swipe and go. No mitt, no mess, no rinse—just smooth it over your skin and let it develop. Color starts to show in under an hour, leaving behind a natural-looking bronze.

Just like the brand’s exfoliating pads, the formula also contains AHAs and BHAs to help refine texture as you tan, so skin looks smoother and more even. Want a deeper color? You can layer it on up to three times a week to maintain or intensify the glow. It’s smart, streamlined, and exactly what we reach for when we don’t have the patience for a mousse that requires hours of marination.

Tester feedback from Wohlner

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“When I’m feeling lazy pre-weekend, I veer right to this tanner. It swipes on in just a few minutes and it always looks even. It’s not too dark that people start to question if I’ve tanned, but it gives me such a nice glow—it’s more like I got a full eight hours of sleep rather than baked in the sun, but I love it for making me look fresh and alive. My only caveat is that I sometimes need two wipes to cover my full body, which feels excessive, but I’ll take it so I don’t have to whip out a messy mousse and mitt.” —Lily Wohlner, commerce writer

Pros & cons

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Pros	Cons
No mitt required	Not as dark or long-lasting as a mousse
Moisturizes and exfoliates skin at the same time	Required daily use for a gradual build
Looks natural	You may need more than one wipe to cover your full body
Easy to apply
No rinse required

More to know

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• Type: wipes
• Key ingredients: AHA, BHA, vitamin E
• Shades: 1
• Development time: 1 hour
• Fragrance: minimal, fresh scent
• Lasts up to: 2 to 4 days

Best Drugstore: L’Oréal Sublime Bronze Self-Tanning Mist

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L'Oréal

Sublime Bronze Self-Tanning Mist

$13

Amazon

$12

Walmart

Why it’s worth it: Sophia Avanzato, founder of Main Line Spray Tan in Villanova, Pennsylvania, loves how user-friendly L’Oréal Paris’ Sublime Bronze Self-Tanning Mist is (and the fact that it’s less than $15). It has a 360-degree wide-spray nozzle, which delivers an ultra-fine, weightless mist for an airbrushed finish. While a spray might seem messy, the brand recommends applying it in the shower to keep everything contained, for easy cleanup. There’s no need to blend or rub it in (no mitt required), and the quick-drying formula begins to develop in as little as two hours. The end result is a smooth, radiant tan that looks like you came from the coast—plus, you can customize it by applying a few layers for a richer bronze.

Pros & cons

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Pros	Cons
Under $15	Not as long-lasting as a mousse
Airbrushed finish	Recommended to use twice a week to maintain color
No mitt or blending required
Layers beautifully
Available in two shades

More to know

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• Type: mousse
• Key ingredients: castor oil
• Shades: 2 (Medium Natural Tan, Deep Natural Tan)
• Development time: up to 3 hours
• Fragrance: fresh and light
• Lasts up to: 4 days (apply it twice weekly for an even tan that stays)

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the best self-tanning tips?

Before you start, get all of your other beauty maintenance out of the way first. By which we mean: If you need to get a wax or a manicure, touch up your hair color, or shave your legs, do it before applying any tanner. "All of those treatments can remove self-tanner," says spray tanner Anna Stankiewicz of Louise O'Connor Salon in New York City. Once that’s done, it’s time to prep. Self-tanner sinks into dry skin, leaving dark patches behind that look unnatural. Slough away flakes with a good body scrub—focusing on rough spots like the knees, elbows, ankles, and heels—or a cleanser with glycolic or salicylic acids to remove dead, dull skin, Stankiewicz says.

Next, choose your product and start your application. "It's always easier to start with the legs and work your way up, and finish with your hands," says self-tanning expert and St. Tropez brand ambassador Sophie Evans. She recommends tanning the lower leg first, from the ankle up, skimming over the knee. Then, she recommends targeting the feet with any excess product from your initial application.

Is self-tanner bad for you?

The short answer: It’s complicated. Dihydroxyacetone (DHA), a sugar-based compound and the active ingredient in most self-tanners, is considered safe for topical use. However, according to a study done by ABC News, there are some concerns if you inhale or ingest DHA during spray sessions or by using spray tanner products, as DHA was approved by the FDA for external use only. A more recent review of the current research published in 2024 concluded that DHA is unlikely to be harmful in the quantities found in these products, although it might be irritating to folks with sensitive skin.

Overall, self-tanners are much better for you than UV tanning. If you want to play it safe, just take extra precautions, especially with spray-on products—namely, spray it on a mitt before applying, and you’re good to go.

What should you look for in the best self-tanners?

Look for DHA, which reacts with the amino acids on the top layer of the skin to provide a gradual color. The problem? It can be challenging to stabilize, hence the dreaded tangerine tint, cosmetic chemist Randy Schueller told Allure.

Luckily, self-tanners have come a long way, and many of today's options leave behind natural-looking tans that are almost indistinguishable from the real deal. Common ingredients found in mousse, lotions, and spray tans are erythrulose, another sugar that stabilizes DHA, moisturizing emollients for a smooth and streak-free glide, and different forms of encapsulation technology to enhance the product's finish and neutralize DHA's usually pungent smell.

How long does self-tanner last?

Here's the thing: Every self-tanner's longevity depends on its formula and pigment intensity. A subtle, faux glow can wash down the drain in a matter of days, while a dramatic bronze may last for up to two weeks. Evans told Allure that faux tan products typically last between five to 10 days. "Your skin will naturally shed over five to 10 days, and no self-tan will last longer than ten days," she said. Proper prep is important, too (check out our tips above for that). You’ll also want to make sure to wash with a gentle cleanser after you tan, make sure your skin is always moisturized, and avoid using products with intense actives like retinol and acne treatments, which can dissolve the color on your face or body.

How do you achieve a streak-free tan with self-tanners?

One of the golden rules of self-tanning starts with your skin-care routine, so exfoliate with the right products beforehand. Just be sure to remove any residue before proceeding, so you can start with a clean, dry, and product-free slate that'll maximize your results. This is a crucial step because oils "could interfere with the binding of DHA to the stratum corneum" (the outer layer of your skin), according to New York City-based board-certified dermatologist Shari Marchbein, MD, leading to uneven development. While your skin should be mostly dry, spot-moisturize as needed for areas around your nostrils, knees, elbows, and ankles to keep them from turning dark or orange, Stankiewicz previously recommended.

If you're new to applying self-tanner, experts suggest testing a lighter-toned formula first to minimize the look of potential mistakes, patches, and streaks. "Once you get used to a classic shade and wish to go darker, you will have the confidence to use the darkest formula," Evans told Allure.

Post-application, err on the safe side when it comes to drying time. "If the directions say five minutes, wait 10," Stankiewicz said. For extra protection, you can also brush a talc-free powder all over, which "stops the tanner from transferring to your clothes," she adds. Finally, avoid showering or sweating for six to eight hours.

Can you put self-tanner on your face?

If it’s formulated for your face, yes—otherwise, steer clear. While self-tanners for your body and self-tanners for your face have overlapping ingredients, David Kim, MD, a board-certified dermatologist at Idriss Dermatology in New York City, suggests separate products for separate parts of your body. "I would not use body self-tanner on the face," he told Allure. "It's much more comedogenic and oily and can often break you out."

How do you remove self-tanner?

If you've made an error mid-application or are ready to remove the tanner before it fades on its own, there are a few things you can do. "After the color has fully developed and your first shower has taken place, mistakes can be removed and fixed in lots of ways depending on the severity of the mistake," Evans explained. She advises using an exfoliating mitt on wet skin to lift unwanted color when dealing with patches and streaks. You can also use a baby wipe to dab away excess or misplaced product as you're self-tanning.

How do you get self-tanner off of your hands?

You can remove product from your hands the same way you would remove it from other parts of your body. Still, the best way to prevent temporary staining is to wash your hands immediately after using self-tanner.

Meet the experts

• Anna Stankiewicz, a spray tanner at Louise O'Connor Salon in New York City
• David Kim, a board-certified dermatologist at New York Dermatology Group
• Shari Marchbein, a board-certified dermatologist in New York City
• Sophie Evans, a self-tanning expert and St. Tropez brand ambassador
• Sophia Avanzato, the founder of Main Line Spray Tan in Villanova, Pennsylvania

How we test and review products

We always enlist a range of testers for any review, but self-tanners are another story. While some can be used across different skin tones, textures, and concerns, many are created with specific consumers and their needs in mind. When reviewing self-tanning products, we also take into account testers' experience levels. For instance, an innovative new formula may provide the perfect bronzed glow, but if there's a streaky learning curve for self-tan beginners, we have to consider this when determining whether it is worthy of a recommendation.

For our review of the best self-tanners, we enlisted the help of multiple editors, writers, contributors, and experts we've interviewed for the piece—who all have different skin tones, concerns, types, and desired outcomes (i.e., subtle versus dramatic). Testers considered performance across three primary categories: efficacy, ease of use, and value. For more on what's involved in our reporting, check out our complete reviews process and methodology page.

About our staff and testers

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

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

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Dove Cameron claims she's “so lazy these days” when it comes to makeup. “I used to be a real makeup girl and spend a lot of time on it. It felt very ritualistic,” she says in a new Allure video accompanying her February cover, “and now I'm so tired.” But you could have fooled us. The 10-minute night-out makeup look she shared with us definitely gives “real makeup girl” vibes, even if she's pared down the products.

“So what I've started doing is I give myself a base that will last all day, simple and light enough, and it's not going to get super cakey,” she says of her game plan. “And then I just kind of pump up the eyes and the lips and the cheeks as the world around me gets darker.” Heard that.

Cameron starts with concealer before anything else—specifically, House Labs Triclone Skin Tech Concealer. “They sent it to me, and it's one of the very few products that I got sent that I was like, this is so, so good, and I'll never stray.” She follows it up with Amorepacific Color Control Cushion Compact, which she says she's used for a decade and Charlotte Tilbury Airbrush Flawless Finish Setting Powder. “When in doubt, I just buy the lightest product possible.”

Just like so many of us who scroll TikTok on the daily, Cameron is susceptible to beauty-product hype, and one product in particular really lured her in: the Dibs Desert Island Duo. “I literally went on TikTok, and I was like, ‘bronzer for pale girls,’ and this girl was like, ‘This is so perfect for pale girls,’ and that was all I needed. I bought it immediately," she says. She dots the bronzer side of the chunky stick in a halo around her hairline and then along her cheekbones, blending it with a Morphe contour brush.

As for blush, she's ready to address the elephant in the room. “The amount of times that I see in my comments—people are like, 'Why is Cameron's nose always pink?'” she says. Well, to put it bluntly, “It's cunt. It's chic. I love a pink nose. I love looking like I'm chilly. I love looking like I'm full of life and blood, and I'm blushing everywhere, and that's my choice.” Can't argue with that. And to achieve that look, she relies on a little cream blush sample from an Estée Lauder x Ladurée collab that, sadly, is no longer available (though any sheer cream blush will do—we love Merit Flush Balm).

Then, in a move we didn't see coming, she drops in a couple of splashes of Lumify eye drops after applying a Japanese mascara called Canmake Quick Lash Curler.

After using the Dior Diorshow Brow Styler pencil exactly as intended, she proceeds to go rogue with other brow products. “This is an Anastasia Brow Pen in Soft Brown, and I use this to go over my freckles. I don't like any of the other products that are made for freckles, and this is a soft, cool tone,” she explains.

As for Anastasia Beverly Hills' Ombre Effect Long Wearing Brow Powder Duo, she mixes the gray and black shades “until I feel spiritually aligned,” applying it along her lashes and up toward her brow bone, and then a little above her inner corners. She then takes just some of the gray shade.

For a decent chunk of her routine, Cameron wears Sacheu Lip Liner Stay-n on the border of her lips. Once she peels it off, she adds one of her long-time go-to products, the iconic Make Up For Ever Artist Color Pencil in Endless Cacao, followed by a pop of a nude Chanel lipstick in the center of her lips.

Throughout the video, Cameron reminds us, “I don't know what the fuck I'm doing,” and that she's new to some of the techniques she's using, but the resulting look—a glowy, subtle, sultry mein—doesn't even remotely reflect that.

Watch the entire video right here: