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Of course Jennifer Lopez packed an entire beauty mood board into just a few days at Paris Haute Couture Fashion Week. In less than 72 hours, she’s checked off the boxes for a voluminous, high ponytail, pin-straight hair with a razor-sharp center part, a Bumpit-esque bouffant, and now what may very well be the prettiest look of her trip abroad: a half-up hairstyle finished with a sizable black bow. If it feels familiar, that may be because she’s embraced the coquette bow craze in Paris before—and she's proving it’s a finishing touch that’s outliving the typical trend cycle.

To attend the Zuhair Murad show, Lopez wore her honey-highlighted hair in a polished half-up style with the top section smoothed back and away from her face before being secured high at the crown. That’s where an oversized black bow sat as the centerpiece of the romantic hairstyle, as the rest of the length was left loose.

Photo: Getty Images

The bow echoed the dramatic black sash cinching the waist of Lopez's embellished white ensemble. But rather than competing with it, it complemented it, adding just enough sweetness to offset the sharp tailoring and plunging neckline.

Photo: Getty Images

It's also a callback to one of J.Lo’s most memorable Paris Fashion Week beauty moments from 2024. She previously embraced the coquette trend by pairing a velvet, olive green bow with another partial updo, about a year into the ribbon resurgence.

This latest bow moment is just one chapter in what's been an especially versatile hair week for Lopez. She’s been seen in a seemingly casual high ponytail worn with an off-the-shoulder bustier gown, stick-straight hair parted cleanly down the center in a style that recalled Y2K looks, and a half-up style with a softly teased bouffant and gently waved tendrils. But this bow-adorned moment may be the most memorable, especially since it seems to reflect a personal Paris tradition for the superstar.

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Swimming and sweating are basically inevitable during warm weather—and you need sun protection that can keep up with your plans. That’s why the best water-resistant body sunscreens deserve a spot in your tote: They do what any good SPF can do, just with more staying power.

Unlike traditional sunscreens, water-resistant sunscreens contain silicones, waxes, and other film-forming polymers that help the product cling to the skin in wet conditions, explains Michael Tassavor, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in New York City. Luckily, you don’t have to parse lengthy ingredient lists to make sure your product of choice is legit. “By law, a sunscreen can only say 'water-resistant' if it's passed standardized testing,” Dr. Tassavor says. “Just look for that wording on the front.” And, like all sunscreens, your water-resistant pick should also provide broad-spectrum UV protection with a rating of 30 SPF or higher, per the American Academy of Dermatology Association (AAD).

Our Top Water-Resistant Body Sunscreens

• Best Overall: EltaMD UV Sport Sunscreen Lotion SPF 50, $32
• Best for Sensitive Skin: Blue Lizard Sport Mineral Sunscreen Spray SPF 50+, $20
• Best for Dry Skin: Supergoop Play Everyday Lotion SPF 50, $28
• Best for Outdoor Activities: La Roche-Posay Anthelios UV Pro Sport SPF 50, $33

However, you still need to reapply every two hours, regardless of how long the sunscreen is said to be water-resistant. That goes for reupping on SPF after swimming, too. “Reapply immediately after towel drying, even if the rated time hasn't elapsed,” says Sejal Shah, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in New York City. And you should give the product enough time to absorb before heading out into the sunshine, according to Azadeh Shirazi, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in La Jolla, California; about 20 minutes should do the trick.

Frequently Asked QuestionsAccordionItemContainerButtonLargeChevron

• What's the difference between waterproof and water-resistant?
• Does water-resistant sunscreen actually work?
• Meet the experts
• How we test and review products
• Our staff and testers

Don’t sweat your sun protection routine this summer. These elegant, effective, and long-wearing formulas come highly recommended by editors and skin care experts.

Best Overall: EltaMD UV Sport Sunscreen Lotion SPF 50

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EltaMD

UV Sport Sunscreen Lotion SPF 50

$32

Amazon

$32

EltaMD

Allure contributing commerce editor Deanna Pai applying the EltaMD UV Sport Sunscreen Lotion SPF 50

Deanna Pai

Why we love it: If you've EltaMD’s sun-care line caters to a wide range of skin concerns and types, from dry to acne-prone. It should be no surprise, then, that the brand nailed it with its water-resistant formula, too. The UV Sport Sunscreen Lotion “holds up beautifully through sweat and water, and feels great on the skin,” Dr. Tassavor says. You can apply it to wet or dry skin, too; either way, it spreads and sinks in cleanly without the chalky or greasy residue you might expect from a “sport” sunscreen. The hybrid formula is powered by mineral filter zinc oxide and two chemical sunscreen ingredients, while vitamin E provides additional protection against free radicals, which contribute to signs of aging, hyperpigmentation, and skin cancer. Its fragrance-free formula plays well with sensitive skin and it’s non-comedogenic to boot, so you can use it on your face without worrying about clogged pores.

Tester feedback from contributing commerce editor Deanna Pai

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“I'm a diehard runner—middle of winter, dead of summer, whatever—and while I wear a hat, I haven't always been diligent with my sun protection. This sunscreen has made it easy to stay consistent: It's quick to absorb, I can use it on both my face and body, and it doesn't turn into a greasy mess when I sweat. My only gripe is that I wish it came in a larger size since I go through it so quickly.” —Deanna Pai, contributing commerce editor

More to know

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• Sunscreen type: chemical and mineral
• Water resistance rating: 80 minutes
• Key ingredients: zinc oxide 9%, octinoxate 7.5%, octisalate 5%, vitamin E
• Fragrance-free: yes

Best for Sensitive Skin: Blue Lizard Sport Mineral Sunscreen Spray SPF 50+

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Blue Lizard

Sport Mineral Sunscreen Spray SPF 50+

$20 $15 (25% off)

Amazon

$19

Target

Allure senior commerce director Shanna Shipin applying the Blue Lizard Sport SPF 50 Spray Sunscreen

Shanna Shipin

Why we love it: For all the positives you hear about mineral sunscreen (it’s gentler on sensitive skin than chemical formulas, and some tinted versions can protect against melasma-causing visible light), it sometimes comes with the drawback that it feels heavy on the skin and leaves a white cast. Blue Lizard’s Sport Mineral Sunscreen Spray, however, makes it so you don’t have to compromise. It’s powered by zinc oxide, but all it needs is a quick rub to absorb into the skin. It dries clear and stays put—no telltale chalky residue in sight. Moisturizing glycerin keeps skin calm and nourished, and it’s alcohol-free, since alcohol can irritate and dry out sensitive skin. (FYI: Just make sure to spray it on outside slowly and carefully; otherwise, you might miss a few spots.)

Tester feedback from senior commerce director Shanna Shipin

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“A spray mineral sunscreen that propels like a chemical? I've never—in all my years testing—come across one as effective as this. Upon first application, I knew this was special, especially if you're used to mineral sunscreens that squirt (in a womp-womp, and messy fashion) rather than shower your skin in SPF coverage. The spray is an even, broad mist that propels powerfully—you won't miss a spot with this kind of reach. It's among the fastest 'screens in my arsenal and is finally a sport mineral that is just as convenient and easy to apply as the chemical sunscreens I have.

You really have to shake it up, then rub it into your skin. This isn't going to give you the perfect, truly invisible chemical spray at first—you may get some errant splotches (but they're tiny, I promise!). After spraying, you just need to remember to briefly rub it in before you go. Otherwise, you may have some uneven spots; when you're done, it dries down with zero white cast. On top of it all, there's an impressive 80 minutes of water-resistant coverage; right now, there isn't a better active or beach-day sunscreen for me and my family.” —Shanna Shipin, senior commerce director

More to know

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• Sunscreen type: mineral
• Water resistance rating: 80 minutes
• Key ingredients: zinc oxide 24%, glycerin
• Fragrance-free: yes

Best for Dry Skin: Supergoop Play Everyday Lotion SPF 50

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Supergoop

Play Everyday Lotion SPF 50

$28

Amazon

$28

Dermstore

$28

Ulta Beauty

Allure beauty director Sarah Kinonen applying the Supergoop Play Everyday Lotion SPF 50

Sarah Kinonen

Why we love it: With a blend of soothing plant extracts, glycerin, and vitamin E, Supergoop’s Play sunscreen is packed with dry skin saviors, protecting your skin from sun damage and keeping it happy and hydrated in one fell swoop. It feels more like a moisturizer than a true sunscreen, thanks to its non-greasy, lightweight consistency that melts right into the skin (no white residue here). Plus, its subtle scent is refreshing rather than overpowering. Sounds like just the sort of supporting character we like to see in a sunscreen made for long days outdoors.

Tester feedback from beauty director Sarah Kinonen

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“This is, hands down, one of my favorite body sunscreens. I’ve taken it all over the world—the sandy beaches of Florida, the Mediterranean Sea, and even the streets of Paris—and it’s consistently reliable. It blends in easily, doesn’t leave a cast, and most importantly for summer, it’s water-resistant, so I never get too worried about sun protection when I’m wearing it in the ocean or pool. (Obviously, I reapply immediately when I get out of the water!) I’m currently using it while on a trip to Florida, but I know this tube will go everywhere (and in any body of water!) with me this summer.” —Sarah Kinonen, beauty director

More to know

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• Sunscreen type: chemical
• Water resistance rating: 80 minutes
• Key ingredients: homosalate 10%, octocrylene 7.5%, octisalate 5%, avobenzone 3%, glycerin, rice bran extract, sunflower oil extract
• Fragrance-free: no

Best for Outdoor Activities: La Roche-Posay Anthelios UV Pro Sport SPF 50

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La Roche-Posay

Anthelios UV Pro Sport SPF 50

$33

La Roche-Posay

Allure commerce editor Sarah Han applying the La Roche-Posay Anthelios UV Pro Sport SPF 50

Sarah Han

Why we love it: It’s one thing for sunscreen to stick around when you’re mainly lounging poolside—it’s another for it to stay in place when you’re running or working out in the heat. We gave La Roche-Posay’s Anthelios UV Pro Sport a Best of Beauty Award last year because it did just that. Dr. Shirazi gives it her seal of approval, too, for its combination of broad-spectrum protection and water resistance up to 80 minutes. It’s formulated to hold up during outdoor activities without staining your clothes or running into your eyes. Better yet, it absorbs fully into the skin with zero cast or tackiness, so you don’t have to worry about it melting into white streaks when you sweat or swim.

Want more LRP sun care in your beach bag? Dr. Tassavor also recommends the brand’s Anthelios Melt-In Milk SPF 60 for its water resistance and phenomenal texture.

Tester feedback from commerce editor Sarah Han

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“I am capital-T terrible at applying body sunscreen. But…I'm also somewhat of a homebody and can't stand being outside for long periods, especially in the summer. Since neither is a legit excuse to skip body SPF, I've been testing out a few formulas to see which one I can tolerate best, and La Roche-Posay is very up there—fitting, since I'll probably be bringing this French brand to the South of France when I'm there for a vacation-wedding-hybrid trip in August, which definitely includes some pool and beach time. It feels nourishing as soon as it touches my skin, softening every inch and leaving a slight glow and brightening my tattoos (bonus!). It's not the lightest, nor is it the thickest—while it takes a beat to rub in, it doesn't leave me with a heavy feeling. Good stuff!” —Sarah Han, commerce editor

More to know

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• Sunscreen type: chemical
• Water resistance rating: 80 minutes
• Key ingredients: homosalate 13%, octocrylene 10%, octisalate 5%, avobenzone 3%, glycerin, hyaluronic acid
• Fragrance-free: yes

Best Scent: Vacation Classic Lotion SPF 50

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Vacation

Classic Lotion SPF 50

$48

Amazon

$48

Nordstrom

$48

Dermstore

Pai applying the Vacation Classic Lotion SPF 50

Deanna Pai

Why we love it: Vacation’s Classic Lotion elevates your everyday sun protection routine with its dreamy scent of summer getaways past. Its nostalgic notes include coconut, banana, pool water, and literal swimsuit Lycra. But its fragrance isn’t the only thing that lasts. It blends well and protects skin for up to 80 minutes of sweating. Its nourishing, moisturizing ingredients (hello, shea butter and coconut oil) prevent your skin from drying out, while calming niacinamide helps brighten and calm skin. You’ll come for the vibey scent, but the great-for-your-skin formula will keep you coming back for more.

Tester feedback from Pai

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“I keep a large bottle of this sunscreen next to our side door, so my whole family can sunscreen up before we head to the park or out for a walk. I love that it blends in quickly onto my olive skin, doesn’t feel greasy, and actually smells amazing—beachy, but not in a way that feels cloying or overly sweet. It’s made me a lot more consistent with applying sunscreen to my arms and legs, and has spared my very pale husband’s neck this summer.” —Deanna Pai, contributing commerce editor

More to know

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• Sunscreen type: chemical
• Water resistance rating: 80 minutes
• Key ingredients: homosalate 9.8%, octocrylene 9.5%, octisalate 4.9%, avobenzone 2.8%, aloe vera, shea butter, coconut oil
• Fragrance-free: no

Best for Kids: Blue Lizard Baby Mineral SPF 50

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Blue Lizard

Baby Mineral SPF 50

$11 $10 (9% off)

Amazon

Why we love it: The gentle formula of Blue Lizard’s Baby Mineral sunscreen is why Dr. Tassavor loves it for littles; babies, toddlers, and kids have thinner, more sensitive skin than adults, so it’s important to find a sunscreen made without common allergens like fragrances, dyes, or parabens. It has plenty of kid-friendly ingredients like aloe vera and calendula (a.k.a marigold) extract, which have a calming effect, but none of the stuff that’s most likely to irritate their delicate skin. But don’t feel left out: Dr. Tassavor adds that anyone with sensitive skin can use it, too. There’s no age limit on sunscreen, except for infants younger than six months old. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends holding off on sunscreen until they pass this benchmark for safety reasons.

More to know

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• Sunscreen type: mineral
• Water resistance rating: 80 minutes
• Key ingredients: zinc oxide 10%, titanium dioxide 8%, aloe vera, calendula extract, glycerin,
• Fragrance-free: yes

Best Spray: Neutrogena Clear Body SPF 50 Sunscreen Spray

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Neutrogena

Clear Body SPF 50 Sunscreen Spray

$14 $12 (14% off)

Amazon

Why we love it: If reapplying lotion mid-beach day feels like a chore, Neutrogena’s Clear Body Sunscreen Spray has got you covered. It blends easily and leaves behind a dry, matte finish that lasts—kind of like you aren’t wearing sunscreen at all. Its quick-drying feel is thanks to the alcohol in its formula, the drying effects of which are offset by added hydrators and skin-soothers niacinamide and vitamin E. One thing to note: As quick, clean, and convenient as the application process of spray sunscreen is, it’s important to spray it on slowly, staying close to the skin, and rub it in completely. Otherwise, you won’t get full coverage and protection.

More to know

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• Sunscreen type: chemical
• Water resistance rating: 80 minutes
• Key ingredients: homosalate 10%, octocrylene 10%, octisalate 5%, avobenzone 3%, niacinamide, vitamin E
• Fragrance-free: yes

Frequently asked questions

What's the difference between waterproof and water-resistant?

Well, waterproof sunscreens simply don’t exist. “‘Waterproof’ implies that a sunscreen remains fully effective indefinitely in water, which isn't realistic,” Dr. Shah says, adding that many countries (including the U.S.) don’t allow brands to label sunscreens as “waterproof” because it’s so misleading.

Water-resistant sunscreens, on the other hand, go through a clear-cut process to verify their effecacy—although they do have to be reapplied. Dr. Shah explains that the FDA only permits two time periods of water resistance on products: 40 and 80 minutes. A 40-minute rating means the sunscreen will retain its SPF for up to 40 minutes of water exposure or immersion, while an 80-minute rating indicates that the SPF will last for up to 80 minutes.

Does water-resistant sunscreen actually work?

If you apply it as directed (and as often as is recommended), a water-resistant sunscreen will protect your skin just as effectively as one that isn’t, Dr. Shirazi says. And if things get wet, it’ll do an even better job. “A standard sunscreen starts breaking down the moment you get in the water or sweat, while a water-resistant one is built to hold its SPF,” Dr. Tassavor says. But, again, it won’t hold onto it forever. So, for thorough protection from sun damage and photoaging, always reapply after your damp activity of choice.

Meet the experts

• Sejal Shah, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in New York City
• Azadeh Shirazi, MD, FAAD, a board-certified dermatologist based in La Jolla, California
• Michael Tassavor, MD, MS, a board-certified dermatologist based in New York City

How we test and review products

We always enlist a range of testers for our makeup vertical, but, for example, hair-care products and tools are another story. While some hair products can be used across different textures, lengths, curl patterns, thicknesses, and colors (natural and unnatural), they are often created with specific consumers in mind. Many are formulated 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?

And for our reviews of the best water-resistant sunscreens, we enlisted the help of multiple editors, writers, contributors, cosmetic chemists, and makeup artists with a range of experience studying and using these products. Testers considered performance across four primary categories: efficacy, texture, experience, and formula. For more on what's involved in our reporting, check out our complete reviews process and methodology page.

Our staff and testers

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

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

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Swedish pop musician Zara Larsson is all about incorporating color, sparkle, and a healthy dash of ‘90s and early ’00s nostalgia into her looks, both onstage and off. If anyone has embraced the pop star-slash-Lisa Frank aesthetic, it's Larsson and makeup artist Sophia Sinot, whose close working partnership has brought us some of the most fun beauty inspo we've seen in awhile—like the enormous pink rhinestone butterfly Larsson donned for her performance at the Roskilde Festival in Denmark, which took up a significant amount of facial real estate and has us feeling absolutely enchanted.

Larsson and Sinot have done so many great looks; a quick scroll through Sinot's Instagram reveals everything from rainbow eye shadow dotted with matching rhinestones to leopard print body gems. For the festival, they skipped the colorful eye shadow—which has now become something of a Larsson signature—in favor of a magenta pink rhinestone butterfly outline that spanned from the top of Larsson's cheek to the center of her forehead.

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According to Sinot, she hand placed every single rhinestone on Larsson's face, which is no small feat given how many gems made up the butterfly shape and how precise the placement was. The butterfly encircles Larsson's eye, with its wings spanning the whole area from her inner brow to well past its tip. Inside the butterfly, Sinot applied a shimmery blend of icy white and mauve shadows anchored by a thick wing of black eyeliner and lush false lashes.

This isn't the first time a butterfly motif has fluttered, so to speak, into Larsson's glam routine. In April, she wore a line of butterfly gem tattoos down her back—seven in total—designed by Lucas Stowe. Plus, the “Midnight Sun” singer has been absolutely instrumental in bringing back body glitter and body decals, which have seen quite the comeback in our nostalgia-obsessed beauty culture. While Larsson's butterfly gems are the work of a very talented professional and require a very steady hand, you could channel some of that retro pop girl energy with some stick on gems of your own, like this butterfly-themed set. Pop 'em on and go soak up that (midnight) sun!

Collage: Mark Baker-Sanchez; Source images: Courtesy of Bath & Body Works.Save StorySave this storySave StorySave this story

It’s no secret that the world is feeling a little nostalgic right now. Millennials are reliving their glory days with sequels like The Devil Wears Prada 2 and relaunches of brands such as Marc Jacobs Beauty. Gen-Z is fascinated by the Y2K era including all the trends many of us would like to forget (low-rise jeans and stripe-y highlights, anyone?). It’s only natural, then, that the Millennial Queen herself, Hilary Duff, is back on tour for the first time in almost 20 years. The last time she went on tour in the U.S. was 2007. Eyebrows were being plucked into oblivion, bronzer was used in excess, and hair was parted deeply to one side.

Today, her now-grown fans pack into stadiums and amphitheatres dressed in their best early-aughts outfits and matching butterfly clips to experience the mass catharsis of hearing her belt out “Come Clean” and “What Dreams Are Made Of,” alongside her latest hits like “Roommates” and “Weather for Tennis.” Duff delivers exactly what we all need right now: A little dose of childhood fun paired with appreciation for the journey we’ve all been on since the early 2000s.

This 2026 version of Hilary Duff is exactly how you imagine her. Her contagious smile and familiar giggle create a relaxed vibe in the penthouse suite we are meeting at The Proper Hotel in Austin. She’s back in her home state of Texas, exuding a relaxed glamour only someone with her years of Hollywood experience can have. You would never guess that she was in the midst of her first full-scale world tour in almost two decades.

Duff was 19 the last time she went on a world tour. Now 38, she returns to the stage a little older, a little wiser, and accompanied by a supportive husband (and talented musician, Matthew Koma), four kids, and an elite skin-care routine. And while we are very interested in said routine (more on that in a second), the first purpose of our meeting is to take Duff on a trip down memory lane—beauty style.

Duff performs onstage for SiriusXM’s Small Stage Series in May 2026.

Getty Images

Duff looks at photographs laid out in front of her—captured between 2001 and 2025—with each one showing a different era of her beauty journey. One photo catches her eye: a screenshot from her 2003 “Come Clean” music video. This “glam was super iconic,” Duff says. “I’m not embarrassed about it.” She credits makeup artist Rachel Goodwin with creating the look, but notes that she did love that heavy black eyeliner for her every-day glam, too.

“One thing I’m kind of obsessed with is the blotting out of the lip,” adds Duff. “I remember putting foundation on my lips to make them go away, which is an insane thought today. Now, people are over-lining, and want their lips to be big and juicy and stand out, and this was like, ‘how do we minimize the lip?’” Duff can’t help but laugh at the thought of it now.

The singer and actor acknowledges that she’s come a long way in her beauty journey. “Less is more,” she notes. “I’ve always heard everyone say that as they age…but it’s true.” Still, Duff reminds us, “that doesn’t mean that it has to be boring. I continue to play with makeup and am inspired by how I wake up, what the vibe is for the day, and what I’m wearing.” She understands the power of lightly applying some colorful eye shadow and mascara. “I’d rather have a fresh face than a full face of makeup.”

While Duff cringes at a photo of her famous character in A Cinderella Story, Sam Montgomery, and her unbrushed barrel curls—“it looks so prom, so crispy”—she smiles at her super glossy lips in the film’s party scene. “She is glossy and she is shining,” Duff notes. “I’m so happy that this trend is back; it’s all about juicy, glossy, bright, poppy. It just feels good.”

Courtesy of Bath & Body Works

In a genius nostalgia play, Duff has teamed up with Bath & Body Works for the launch of their new Fruit Fusion line. After all, what millennial didn’t save up their allowance to get the latest Bath & Body Works body splash and matching hand sanitizer in the early 2000s?

The Fruit Fusion launch is a collection of hand sanitizers, lip oils, perfume mists, hand and body lotions, and more. The lotions include hyaluronic acid, the much-loved ingredient that helps bring in and hold onto moisture in the skin. And, of course, everything smells delicious, with scents ranging from Watermelon Whirl and Tangerine Twirl to Berry Bliss and Banana Blend.

Conveniently, Duff keeps hydration top of mind while taking on this world tour, primarily performing in outdoor venues in this summer’s intense heat. “I live in California where it’s dry. I’m 38. I feel like I’m always dry. A huge part of my routine at this stage of my life is hydration,” she says. “I feel best when I’m hydrated on the inside, hydrated on the outside. The Bath & Body Works Fruit Fusion line has amazing products that keep me moisturized for days, and when I feel my skin feeling good, I typically feel good.”

The partnership feels natural for Duff, a lifelong Bath & Bodyworks fan. “I feel like it’s a very joyous, happy line; it’s really fitting with what’s happening in my life and my tour right now,” she says. During this tour, she has been pairing together the Tangerine Twirl and Banana Blend body washes and lotions. “It’s very summery, happy, bright, sweet, and that has been my summer mode.”

In addition to using her favorite Fruit Fusion products on this tour, Duff is a firm believer in Therabody’s TheraFace Depuffing Wand to both depuff her skin and help with product absorption before every show. To also help with depuffing and brightening of the skin, Duff loves YSE’s The Overachiever undereye patches. “She’s 38,” Duff playfully adds, “we’ve got to hydrate those lines.” She seals it all in with the crowd-pleasing One/Size setting spray, ensuring her makeup stays pristine while running around stage in the summer heat.

The Lucky Me tour will continue its US leg through August. In September, Duff will take the tour internationally, starting with Ireland and the UK. In the meantime, you can catch her smiling her way through her iconic bops on stage, sporting her favorite Banana Blend lip oil.

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Sabrina Carpenter was presumably a guest at Taylor Swift’s wedding over the weekend, but now she’s popped up in Paris to be a front-row guest at the Dior Haute Couture Fall/Winter 2026-2027 show. And while we have yet to see how she wore her hair to the Madison Square Garden love fest, we think it’s safe to say it must have been much different than the completely unexpected braided pigtails she sported to sit runway-side.

Whether she's wearing bouncy, voluminous curls or a fluffy '90s-inspired blowout, Carpenter is known for big, glamorous hair. Sure, she strays from her signature look every now and then (see: the Met Gala), but it’s never not surprising when she shows up in a look that simply wasn’t on our style radar.

Instead of cascading blonde waves, Carpenter wore low, braided pigtails starting at the nape of her neck. Her buttery blonde hair was parted down the center and given an air-dried, wavy texture that let her long curtain bangs and a few shorter pieces stay separate from the rest of the style and frame her face. The braids appear to be tied off with thin, white rope and have a romantic, lived-in, casual quality—though not too casual to seem irrefutably stylish at a Paris couture show.

Photo: Getty Images

That can be at least partially attributed to her fairy-tale-esque ensemble. Carpenter wore a lacy, ivory, sleeveless Dior dress featuring a softly draped cowl neckline and floral embellishments at the shoulder and hip. It would actually make for a gorgeous bridal look, so perhaps the singer-songwriter was inspired by Swift’s Dior wedding dress.

Although this is a pretty dramatic departure from Carpenter's typical beauty playbook, it (once again) proves she doesn't need sky-high volume to make a stunning impression. If it's a hairstyle, and it's on her head, it's gonna look gorgeous.

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When it comes to exfoliants, you no longer have to choose between brighter skin and a happy skin barrier. The best PHA products deliver both, gently whisking away dead skin cells while helping skin stay comfortable. "PHAs, or polyhydroxy acids, are a type of chemical exfoliant—and what makes them special is that they slough off surface buildup much more gently than other acids," says Mamina Turegano, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in New Orleans. The most common PHAs you'll spot on ingredient labels are gluconolactone, lactobionic acid, and galactose.

Like alpha hydroxy acids, PHAs work on the skin's surface to smooth texture and brighten the complexion, but “their larger molecular structures reduce the risk of deep penetration through the epidermis, making them a particularly gentle exfoliating option for dry, sensitive, or easily irritated skin,” says Carlos Vieira, a board-certified dermatologist based in Philadelphia. Better yet, "they also act as humectants, meaning they attract water to the skin," adds Dr. Turegano, so you get brighter and hydrated skin with less irritation. The only catch is that PHAs aren't a replacement for pore-clearing salicylic acid (betahydroxy acids are oil-soluble and dive deeper into pores to dissolve excess oil and congestion, making them a better fit for acne-prone skin).

Our Top PHA Products

• Best Overall: Eadam Cashmere Peel Milky Exfoliant & Hydrating Essence, $42
• Best for Large Pores: Glow Recipe Watermelon Glow PHA + BHA Pore-Tight Toner, $36
• Best for Mature Skin: SkinCeuticals P-Tiox Serum, $150
• Best for Sensitive Skin: The Inkey List PHA Toner, $15

Frequently Asked QuestionsAccordionItemContainerButtonLargeChevron

• Are PHAs good for sensitive skin?
• Can I use PHAs every day?
• Do PHAs play well with other actives like retinol or vitamin C?
• Meet the experts
• How we test and review products
• Our staff and testers

Ahead, we've rounded up the Allure-approved PHA serums, toners, pads, and exfoliants that leave skin smoother and brighter without compromising your moisture barrier.

Best Overall: Eadam Cashmere Peel Milky Exfoliant & Hydrating Essence

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Eadem

Cashmere Peel Milky Exfoliant & Hydrating Essence

$42

Amazon

$42

Sephora

Allure commerce editor Sarah Han applying the Eadam Cashmere Peel Milky Exfoliant & Hydrating Essence

Sarah Han

Why it's worth it: A winner of our 2024 Best of Beauty Award, Eadem’s Cashmere Peel Milky Exfoliating & Hydrating Essence stars the brand's proprietary FastFade Complex, which combines gluconolactone, lactic acid, azelaic acid, tranexamic acid, and citric acid to “visibly even skin tone by gently sweeping away dull, pigment-packed surface cells to reveal brighter skin underneath,” says Dr. Vieira.

“It's the perfect pick for anyone dealing with stubborn post-breakout marks or melasma but still wanting that smooth, glowy 'fresh skin' without adding five extra steps to their routine,” he says. "What really makes this formula stand out is how soothing it feels.” Panthenol calms inflammation and supports the skin barrier, while rice water, colloidal oatmeal extract, and glycerin add an extra layer of comfort. It simply feels nice too: "The texture is lightweight, milky, and silky on the skin with an elegant finish,” he says.

Han before applying the Eadam Cashmere Peel Milky Exfoliant & Hydrating Essence

Sarah Han

Han after applying the Eadam Cashmere Peel Milky Exfoliant & Hydrating Essence

Sarah Han

Tester feedback from commerce editor Sarah Han

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“Not only do I love the substantial texture of a milky toner, but the Cashmere Peel offers the best of both worlds—hydrating and exfoliating—it really goes above and beyond. It leaves my skin with a visible glow that even my phone camera can pick up, but more importantly, it sloughs away dead skin cells and makes my almightily annoying nose blackheads less noticeable. My skin does feel a bit tacky afterward, but I think it helps my serum, moisturizing sunscreen, and makeup apply all the better and smoother.” —Sarah Han, commerce editor

More to know

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• PHA percentage: 9% AHA + PHA blend
• Key ingredients: gluconolactone, lactic, azelaic, tranexamic, citric acids, rice water, colloidal oatmeal extract, glycerin, panthenol
• Fragrance-free: yes

Best for Large Pores: Glow Recipe Watermelon Glow PHA + BHA Pore-Tight Toner

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Glow Recipe

Watermelon Glow PHA + BHA Pore-Tight Toner

$36

Amazon

$36

Sephora

Allure senior staff writer Elizabeth Gulino applying the Glow Recipe Watermelon Glow PHA + BHA Pore-Tight Toner

Elizabeth Gulino

Why it’s worth it: Inspired by the Korean aqua peel facial—a treatment similar to a HydraFacial that deeply cleanses, exfoliates, and floods skin with hydrating serums—Glow Recipe’s Watermelon Glow PHA + BHA Pore-Tight Toner delivers a gentler at-home alternative. It won't replicate the dramatic results of an in-office treatment, but it does nudge skin toward that same hydrated, glassy glow with minimal irritation. The formula “combines gentle 3% gluconolactone paired with betaine salicylate (a naturally derived BHA) to clear congested pores,” says Dr. Turegano. (BHA, which you might know as salicylic acid, is oil-soluble, so it can penetrate and clear out clogged pores from within.) A 62% “blend of watermelon extract and cactus water, along with glycerin, hyaluronic acid, and polyglutamic acid, keeps skin feeling soothed, hydrated, and balanced,” she adds.

Gulino before applying the Glow Recipe Watermelon Glow PHA + BHA Pore-Tight Toner

Elizabeth Gulino

Gulino after applying the Glow Recipe Watermelon Glow PHA + BHA Pore-Tight Toner

Elizabeth Gulino

Tester feedback from senior staff writer Elizabeth Gulino

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“This exfoliating toner works magic on my pores—I usually apply it with a cotton pad and am left with smooth and hydrated skin. While the scent of watermelon in this product is definitely noticeable, it's a plus if you're into fruity, summery fragrances.” —Elizabeth Gulino, senior staff writer

More to know

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• PHA percentage: 3%
• Key ingredients: gluconolactone, betaine salicylate, watermelon extract, cactus water, glycerin, hyaluronic acid, polyglutamic acid
• Fragrance-free: yes

Best for Mature Skin: SkinCeuticals P-Tiox Serum

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SkinCeuticals

P-Tiox Serum

$150

SkinCeuticals

$150

Dermstore

$150

Bluemercury

Why it's worth it: The peptides in this 2025 Best of Beauty Award winner may get lots of love, but they don't deserve all the credit for the formula’s smoothing abilities. The SkinCeuticals P-Tiox Serum also packs 5% gluconolactone, along with 5% niacinamide to even out hyperpigmentation and support the skin barrier and 1% laminaria digitata extract (“derived from sea kelp extract, which delivers antioxidant protection,” Rachel Westbay, MD, a board-certified dermatologist in New York City, previously told Allure). Together, they target aging skin from multiple angles, improving texture and luminosity while “softening the appearance of expression lines and wrinkles," says Dr. Turegano.

Allure editor in chief Jessica Cruel applying the SkinCeuticals P-Tiox

Jessica Cruel

Cruel after applying the SkinCeuticals P-Tiox

Jessica Cruel

Tester feedback from editor in chief Jessica Cruel

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“There is a combination of peptides, niacinamide, and PHA in this serum to help target a very specific sign of aging: expression lines. As someone who loves to laugh, I am particularly concerned about my nasolabial folds a.k.a. smile lines. I use this serum so they don't get any worse. I have to say, I find my filler is lasting a lot longer in that area. It is not a complete replacement for aesthetic treatments like filler or neurotoxin, but this serum can complement those in-office treatments as maintenance. I like to switch off between this and my retinol.” —Jessica Cruel, editor in chief

More to know

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• PHA percentage: 5%
• Key ingredients: gluconolactone, 5% niacinamide, 1% laminaria digitata extract
• Fragrance-free: yes

Best for Acne: Some by Mi AHA BHA PHDA 30 Days Miracle Truecica Clear Pad

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Some by Mi

AHA BHA PHDA 30 Days Miracle Truecica Clear Pad

$18

Amazon

$25

Ulta Beauty

Why it's worth it: Ask an Allure editor where they first fell for PHAs, and don't be surprised if the answer starts with K-beauty, as Korean skincare has long prioritized gentle, barrier-conscious formulas that don't skimp on results. Some By Mi's AHA BHA PHA 30 Days Miracle Truecica Clear Pads are a bit stronger than your average PHA formula, so we'd stick to using them once or twice a week. That’s because lactobionic acid works in tandem with 0.5% betaine salicylate (a gentler BHA derived from beets), citric acid, and 85% willow bark water to smooth rough texture, clear clogged pores, and rein in excess oil. While the PHA provides gentle resurfacing and hydration, tea tree and the brand's soothing Truecica complex, spotlighting Centella asiatica, calm and balance acne-prone and oily skin.

Allure commerce market editor Sarah Hoffmann using the Some by Mi AHA BHA PHA 30 Days Miracle Truecica Clear Pad

Sarah Hoffmann

Hoffmann after using the Some by Mi AHA BHA PHA 30 Days Miracle Truecica Clear Pad

Sarah Hoffmann

Tester feedback from commerce producer Sarah Hoffmann

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“I treat these toner pads like a first aid kit for my skin. Whenever I'm inconsistent about skin care, the first place the neglect starts to show is around my nose and chin, where I'm prone to clogged pores. Whenever I notice this kind of congestion, a day or two of using these exfoliating pads clears that right up. My skin is pretty sensitive, so I appreciate how these toner pads are perfectly dosed with the right amount of product, so I don't need to stress about over-exfoliating. The first time I used these after a week of not-so-great skin, I woke up the next day and genuinely thought, ‘Well, that made my skin perfect.'" —Sarah Hoffmann, commerce producer

More to know

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• PHA percentage: 0.01%
• Key ingredients: lactobionic acid, 85% willow bark extract, tea tree oil, betaine salicylate, Centella asiatica extract, 0.01% citric acid
• Fragrance-free: free of synthetic fragrance, but has peppermint oil

Best for Sensitive Skin: The Inkey List PHA Toner

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The Inkey List

PHA Toner

$18

Amazon

$15

Sephora

Allure contributing commerce writer Christa Joanna Lee applying The Inkey List PHA Toner

Christa Joanna Lee

Why it's worth it: Known for its less-is-more approach to skin care, The Inkey List has built its reputation on making active ingredients easy to understand—and The Inkey List PHA Toner, aptly named for its hero ingredient, is a prime example. The straightforward formula doesn't try to do too much beyond its core ingredients, which include “a lower concentration of 3% gluconolactone to gently smooth rough skin texture,” says Dr. Vieira. It’s paired with 3% niacinamide to brighten and support the skin barrier, while aloe vera and glycerin replenish moisture so skin never feels stripped. Sensitive skin types will especially appreciate the gentle approach, as will anyone dealing with redness or rosacea, according to Dr. Turegano.

Lee before applying The Inkey List PHA Toner

Christa Joanna Lee

Lee after applying The Inkey List PHA Toner

Christa Joanna Lee

Tester feedback from contributing commerce writer Christa Joanna Lee

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“The Inkey List PHA Toner is about as uncomplicated as a toner gets. There's no sting, no irritation, no sticky residue, and no scent, so it gets to work smoothing away rough, built-up skin without making my sensitive skin unhappy. I did notice a tiny bit of pilling before makeup one morning, but I suspect that had more to do with all the dead skin it was lifting (and me not giving it quite enough time to dry) than the formula itself. Its travel-friendly size makes it easy to bring along wherever you go—I'm almost out for toting this around and definitely need to restock." —Christa Joanna Lee, contributing commerce writer

More to know

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• PHA percentage: 3%
• Key ingredients: gluconolactone, 3% niacinamide, aloe vera, glycerin
• Fragrance-free: yes

Best for Uneven Texture: Mara Flower Acid Algae Serum

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Mara

Flower Acid Algae Serum

$74

Amazon

$74

Sephora

$74

Bluemercury

Allure beauty director Sarah Kinonen applying the Mara Flower Acid Algae Serum

Sarah Kinonen

Why it's worth it: If you already have dry skin, the last thing you want is an exfoliant that leaves it feeling even more parched. Mara’s Flower Acid Algae Serum proves that gentle exfoliation and deep hydration can coexist. Alongside gluconolactone and 11% lactic acid to smooth rough texture and lift away dull skin, the formula is packed with moisturizing squalane, hydrating glycerin, and a blend of nourishing botanical oils (including milk thistle seed, black currant, and evening primrose) to replenish lipids as it exfoliates. Marine algae and plankton extracts support the skin barrier and boost hydration, while antioxidant-rich flower extracts, such as daisy and hibiscus, brighten the complexion. Plus, it won a Best of Beauty Award in our clean category, meaning it's formulated without the 14 ingredient classes outlined in our Clean Standard.

Kinonen before applying the Mara Flower Acid Algae Serum

Sarah Kinonen

Kinonen after applying the Mara Flower Acid Algae Serum

Sarah Kinonen

Tester feedback from beauty director Sarah Kinonen

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“I use this serum every other night in place of my prescription Tretinoin. After cleansing and before moisturizer, I massage a small pump into my skin from my forehead down my neck. As someone who has easily irritated skin, this never causes the usual side effects I experience with potent serums, like inflammation and/or flaking. Instead, it leaves my skin feeling smooth and looking glowy. I'll admit that $74 for an exfoliating serum is a bit pricey, but I promise it's worth the investment! I've recommended it to so many friends and family members, and they've all agreed with how great the results are.” —Sarah Kinonen, beauty director

More to know

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• PHA percentage: not disclosed
• Key ingredients: gluconolactone, 11% lactic acid, squalane, glycerin, milk thistle seed oil, black currant oil, evening primrose oil, marine algae, plankton extracts, daisy, hibiscus
• Fragrance-free: yes

Frequently Asked Questions

Are PHAs good for sensitive skin?

PHAs are widely considered one of the best exfoliating acids for sensitive skin. "Because they have a larger molecular size than AHAs like glycolic acid, they penetrate more slowly and tend to cause less stinging, redness, and irritation while still helping to smooth texture and brighten the skin," says Dr. Turegano. Another bonus: "PHAs have humectant properties, so they attract water to the skin while they exfoliate," she says. That means you get the smoothing and brightening benefits of chemical exfoliation without the tight, stripped feeling that can sometimes accompany stronger acids. If your skin is dry, reactive, or easily irritated, PHAs are an excellent place to start. “If you’re experiencing any irritation with a PHA though, it’s your body’s way of telling you it’s time to dial back frequency,” adds Dr. Vieira.

Can I use PHAs every day?

For many people, yes. "PHAs are gentle enough to be used daily," says Dr. Turegano. But how often you should reach for them “depends on your skin type, the strength of the formula, and what other active ingredients are already in your routine,” she says. If you're new to exfoliating acids or have sensitive skin, she recommends easing in by using a PHA product “a few times a week, then gradually increasing to daily use as your skin tolerates it,” she says. As with any exfoliant, pay attention to signs of overdoing it—like persistent redness, dryness, or stinging—and scale back if needed.

Do PHAs play well with other actives like retinol or vitamin C?

"PHAs generally play very well with other skin-care ingredients, including retinoids and vitamin C," says Dr. Turegano. Because they're gentler than stronger exfoliating acids, they're less likely to compound irritation. That said, if you have sensitive skin or are layering multiple actives, Dr. Turegano recommends “introducing new products gradually and paying close attention to how your skin responds before increasing frequency.”

Meet the experts

• Mamina Turegano, MD, a board-certified dermatologist, internist, and dermatopathologist based in New Orleans
• Carlos Vieira, a board-certified dermatologist at The Dermatology Specialists based in Philadelphia

How we test and review products

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

For our list of the best PHA products, we considered each product’s performance across five primary categories: product ingredients and efficacy, packaging, fragrance, texture, and product wear. Every product was determined to have excelled in each category by our editorial team, which is composed of in-house writers and editors as well as contributors—along with special consideration from makeup artists. To learn more information on our reporting and testing processes, read our complete reviews process and methodology page.

Our staff and testers

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

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

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Four months into Zendaya’s bixie, we haven’t come close to tiring of it. She's cycled through soft curls, slicked-back styles, and vintage-inspired swoops that have made her hair one of the biggest beauty stories of the year. But for the world premiere of The Odyssey, she surprised us by suddenly wearing waist-skimming waves and a braid crown that couldn’t be more fitting for someone playing a goddess.

Zendaya arrived at the London event on July 6 with not several inches but several feet of additional hair. Simultaneously regal and seemingly effortless—her hairstylist would surely disagree—it cascaded in the softest of undone waves down to her corseted waist.

Her rich brunette color was brightened with shimmering, blonde highlights that were especially apparent in her half-up braid crown. Two thick braids began just above the temples before wrapping over and around her head like an organic headband. Rather than being tightly woven, the braids had a relaxed texture that blended with the softness of her length.

Photo: Getty Images

The style feels especially appropriate given her role as Athena in Christopher Nolan's highly anticipated adaptation of The Odyssey. It evokes exactly what you’d picture for mythological beauty, and just like so many of Zendaya’s premiere looks for other movies, it stays on-theme.

Photo: Getty Images

Her makeup by Ernesto Casillas was even more ethereal, thanks to a wash of frosty, pearlescent eye shadow emphasized along the inner corners of her eyes and blended out both above and below, behind well-defined lashes. Her nails, on the other hand (no pun intended), went in the opposite direction with a super-dark, short manicure, keeping the look from skewing too angelic.

Between the braided crown, flowing waves, and luminous makeup, Zendaya's latest red carpet appearance feels like what we might see if Athena herself showed up for an A-list movie premiere.

Sun-In hair lightening products are having a nostalgia-fueled resurgence.Photo: Jens Stuart / Trunk ArchiveSave StorySave this storySave StorySave this story

A quick Google search for “Is Sun-In back in style?” pulls up headlines from last month, last year, and the last decade. Fashion magazines recommended it through the 2010s. Your mom probably used it in the ’80s. For me and fellow elder millennials, it was a middle school gateway to 40-volume bleach. And right now, a new generation of UV enthusiasts (possibly the same ones who are bringing back tanning despite the very well-documented risks of skin cancer) is spraying it in and lying out, waiting for the sun to do its thing.

According to the Spate Popularity Index, which pulls data from Google searches, TikTok views, and Instagram posts, interest in Sun-In is up 32% year-over-year, with another 19% of growth predicted in the next 12 months. Searches about hair-lightening sprays overall are up 61%, with the conversation happening almost entirely on Google, which signals buying intent. Unsurprisingly, the most common related searches are before-and-afters: People want proof the product works before they commit.

But Sun-In’s modern renaissance raises a bigger question: At a time when nearly any beauty goal is achievable with the right tools and tech, why is a $4 bottle of drugstore hair tonic still the product we keep reaching for, especially when the results are far from guaranteed?

How Sun-In works: the good, the bad, and the orange

Sun-In is a hydrogen peroxide-based spray-on lightener that is activated with heat. Spritz it in, go outside, or use a hair dryer, and watch your hair gradually lighten over hours, days, or weeks. The critical caveat is that it usually works as intended only on naturally blonde or light brunette hair. On darker hair, you probably won’t get blonde. You’re most likely going to get red or orange.

“Hair lighteners work by oxidizing melanin. Hydrogen peroxide breaks down the melanin in the hair shaft, and heat activates that process,” explains Izabela Nowak, PhD, a cosmetic chemist and head of the applied chemistry department at Adam Mickiewicz University in Poznań, Poland.

“The orange effect occurs when the pigment is not fully oxidized,” adds Dr. Nowak. “Time in the sun is critical, and so is your starting color. Dark hair contains more eumelanin, which is harder to lift. Full oxidation is less likely to occur, and the result is often warm, reddish pigments rather than true blonde."

Also on the ingredient list is citrus limon (lemon) juice, which “should help close the hair cuticle after oxidation,” Dr. Nowak explains, in addition to helping lighten on its own. Chamomilla recutita (matricaria) flower extract “has a minor lightening effect [on light hair, not dark]; here, it mostly just adds shine.” And nourishing botanicals like aloe, calendula, and linseed.

It’s worth noting that the “bleach-free” claim on the bottle is, as Dr. Nowak puts it, a half-truth at best. “Hydrogen peroxide is a bleaching agent. While traditional hair dyes usually pair it with alkaline accelerators not present in this formula [those open up the hair shaft, accelerating the dyeing], hydrogen peroxide itself is present. It’s a classic oxidizing agent. This isn’t mentioned at all in the product description.”

Where trends lead, the market follows. While the new class of spray lighteners has yet to achieve Sun-In’s cult status, the competition is real. Standouts include Sun Bum Blonde Hair Lightener ($17), which blends the same hydrogen peroxide base with pineapple and lemon, and Oribe Bright Blonde Sun Lightening Mist ($38), which is explicitly peroxide-free. The formula features lemon, chamomile, and a cocktail of fruit oils and botanicals with added UV protection. “There's no bleaching effect, and it's much less aggressive,” brand educator Adam Livermore explained when it launched in 2021. “Think of it like a brightness booster, like getting an extra shot of espresso in your coffee.”

Which raises a fair question: What does the presence of peroxide cost your hair? Researchers using transmission electron microscopy have found that bleaching damages hair well beyond the surface in a process that doesn’t reverse, breaking down structure in both the cuticle and the underlying cortex, including the disulfide bonds that give hair its strength. While the peroxide exposure from Sun-In and similar products is nowhere near what salon-strength bleach delivers, that "effortless" sun-streaked look is still the result of a real chemical reaction. For those trying to go brighter while preserving hair health, a peroxide-free formula like Oribe’s might be the way to go. (Or, you’re better off with straight lemon juice.)

The beauty ritual that requires you to touch grass

What makes Sun-In unique as beauty products go is that it works best outside. Ideally, when you’re horizontal. Preferably not looking at your phone. And definitely when you’re wearing sunscreen. It’s a ritual that can’t be rushed, fine-tuned, or administered by a professional. Well, it could be, but it wouldn’t make a difference. And perhaps that’s part of the appeal.

The last decade of beauty has been defined by relentless perfectionism: $400 blowdryers, $600 highlights, vampire facials, salmon sperm serums, and spa treatments born in a chemistry lab. We’re very good at controlling outcomes. We also seem to have gotten very tired of it.

The same generation raised in the culture of control is now reaching, conspicuously, for the opposite. Sourdough, flip phones, and film photography are permanent fixtures. House parties are finally back. The analog turn is more than an aesthetic reaction; it’s exhaustion talking. In an over-optimized, outcome-obsessed world, there’s something almost radical about choosing a process that all but promises an uncertain result.

Ready to DIY? Here’s how to use Sun-In to lighten your hair.

A strand test first, always. The end result depends heavily on your starting color, and the only way to know how your hair will respond is to test a small section. Note that Sun-In is not recommended for dyed hair. “Hydrogen peroxide can react with dye from a previous coloring and create a new pigment within the hair shaft,” warns Dr. Nowak. “You might be surprised and end up with black lowlights instead!”

Start with less product than you think you need and build across sessions. Heat helps; a blow dryer will activate it if you’re not spending time outdoors. If your hair is dark brown or black, maybe avoid it unless you don’t mind the possibility of orange or brassy tones. If you’re somewhere in the light brunette middle, go slowly and give your hair extra TLC between rounds. Purple shampoos and a deep conditioning mask could go a long way. The results that tend to look the most natural are usually the ones that took the longest to achieve.

Maybe it was never about the hair

For cash-strapped preteens whose parents banned hair dye, it’s a shortcut to achieving those sunkissed strands. For nostalgic adults on TikTok, it’s a way to relive what we remember as simpler times, but also reclaim some agency. When we can have almost anything customized and automated, from a 12-step skin routine to an AI life partner, there’s something undoubtedly charming about Sun-In’s analog uncertainties.

You can go to the salon and drop half a paycheck on a perfectly calibrated balayage. Or you can go to Target, buy a $4 bottle of Sun-In, spray it into your hair (alongside SPF from head-to-toe, reapplied every two hours), and go lie in the grass and yap with your bestie as it shade-shifts.

It’s summer. What sounds more fun?

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

There’s nothing I want more from my skin-care routine than glass skin. While not a new concept, this K-beauty term for clear, poreless, luminous, and seemingly transparent skin continues to be the gold standard for beauty editors and, well, everyone else. While I indulge in sheet masks a few times a week and my LED mask when I remember, serums are a daily step I refuse to skimp on in my quest to get (and maintain) glowy, plump, and youthful-looking skin. TL;DR: Serums are high-potency products that deliver active ingredients into the skin most efficiently, Boston-based board-certified dermatologist Ranella Hirsch, MD, previously explained, and target specific skin-care concerns like dullness, fine lines, and more. (For this reason, I always tell my friends to invest in their serums! Cleansers and moisturizers? Not so much.)

And, as a Korean skin-care obsessive, I was super curious about the UK-based brand’s take on two of Korea’s biggest innovation exports of the past few years: PDRN and exosomes. Meet the Medik8 Exo-PDRN Prismatic+.

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Medik8

Exo-PDRN Prismatic+

$96

Medik8

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• The ingredients breakdown
• My first impressions
• How I tested it
• The results
• Final thoughts
• Meet the experts
• How we test and review products
• Our staff and testers

The ingredients breakdown

Inspired by injectable PDRN used primarily in Asia and Europe—where it helps to stimulate collagen production and promote wound healing—its topical counterpart is thought to improve skin texture, elasticity, and overall radiance, though experts aren't fully sold on that claim. Full disclosure: Allure’s stance on PDRN is that there isn’t enough clinical research (yet) to support the efficacy of topical PDRN, and our reporting on exosomes, another key ingredient in Prismatic+, has a similar conclusion. (Exosomes, for the uninitiated, are tiny structures that transport proteins, lipids, and genetic material in an effort to encourage wound healing and other forms of cellular repair—although again, whether this translates to topical products is TBD.)

It’s perhaps worth noting that Medik8 uses a vegan source of PDRN (listed simply as “DNA” in the ingredients list) that “might imply a biotech source, something prepared by fermentation,” says Kelly Dobos, a Cincinnati-based cosmetic chemist. However, the brand doesn’t disclose its exact source; plus, “DNA, no matter the source, is pretty fragile when it comes to cosmetic stability,” Dobo explains. The “Prismatic” of it all refers to a three-dimensional, pyramid-shaped structure that the brand claims improves the formula’s stability and penetration. To this, Dobos says more information on the molecular size and weight of the structure (which determines the level of skin penetration) is needed.

Working alongside the star ingredients, however, are widely tested supporting ingredients that are seriously pulling their weight, according to Dobos. In addition to a high concentration of hydrating glycerin and soothing, redness-minimizing allantoin, Dobos calls out niacinamide as a star ingredient. “As one of the most reliable multitaskers we have, [niacinamide] supports barrier function, improves skin tone, and can help with overall skin brightness and texture,” she says. I personally have also had luck with growth-factor serums, which are formulated to support the production of collagen, elastin, and hyaluronic acid. Medik8 uses its own technology, GF MiniProtein and oligopeptide-1 (a lab-engineered version of epidermal growth factor, or EGF for short), to smooth and plump skin.

Me applying the Medik8 Exo-PDRN Prismatic+ after rinsing my face.

Sarah Han

Me after applying the Medik8 Exo-PDRN Prismatic+ with a visible glow.

Sarah Han

My first impressions

The first thing that struck me about the Prismatic+ serum was its texture. It has this silky slip that allows it to really glide onto the skin—there’s no tugging whatsoever. (I’ll be damned if I accelerate the formation of any wrinkles!) As it melts into my skin, it does leave a slightly tacky finish—but I don’t mind it because I think it helps my gel moisturizer (if I wear one), sunscreen, and eventually makeup grip on better. They’re all one big happy family!

Most mornings I’ll apply a toner or essence, but I’ve skipped that step to see if Prismatic+ alone leaves me with a visible, healthy glow, and I’m happy to report that it does. Even if I only got five hours of sleep, my skin doesn’t look the least bit tired.

How I tested it

For reference, I’m 33, have combination skin (featuring a very oily T-zone), and my biggest concern is delaying early signs of aging. I’ve also never used injectables and don’t plan on it for the time being, so topical skin care—and a sporadic laser or facial here and there—is the crux of what I’m working with. To test, I incorporated Prismatic+ into my daytime and nighttime routines for a month. After I rinse my face in the morning, I’ll typically go in with a toner (currently, Skin1004’s Madagascar Centella Poremizing Clear Toner), Prismatic+, a second serum (more on that in a moment), and a moisturizing sunscreen (I forego a standalone moisturizer in the summer since I find the extra layer to be too heavy/cause pilling.) At nighttime, my typical routine is a double-cleanse, essence, Prismatic+, retinol, and richer cream.

I had one hesitation from the beginning: Is Prismatic+ enough as the only serum in my routine to address my concerns (again, early signs of aging)? When I asked Dobos for her opinion, she affirmed my skepticism: “This could be a nice supporting product in your skin-care routine, but I don't think it can replace proven antioxidants and retinoids.” I don’t see that as a downside, necessarily, as I already love cocktailing my serums—the more the merrier! I’ve been layering Prismatic with my usual vitamin C (I like Medik8’s C-Tetra Advanced) during the day and a retinol or retinal serum at night. Reminder: Derms always say to go from thinnest to thickest consistencies, and Prismatic+ is thinner than most—hence, it’s the first serum I apply.

The results

I appreciate how versatile Prismatic+ is; not only does it give me an incredible glow from the outset, but it’s incredibly lightweight and layers well with my other skin-care products—sans heaviness (especially important in the humid dog days of summer) or pilling. For one, my skin looks bouncier and feels softer to the touch after each application. It often goes through bouts of stress (dryness, dullness) whenever the seasons change, and after a month of testing the Exo-PDRN Prismatic+, my skin definitely appears overall brighter, more hydrated, and balanced. I can imagine Prismatic+ shining in the colder months, too, when my combination skin suddenly craves more moisture. Exo-PDRN Prismatic+ is the kind of formula that plays well with all skin types. Case in point: David Kim, MD, a NYC-based board-certified dermatologist who uses Prismatic+ himself, adds that it's “great for acne-prone skin, especially in the summer, and layers well with salicylic acid.” (Dr. Kim also loves the lightweight texture, by the way—so two points for Prismatic+!)

I’m almost done with my first bottle—time to re-up soon.

Sarah Han

Final thoughts

All things considered—busy office days, long evenings filled with work events, choppy sleep, and everything else that life throws my way—I think I take pretty good care of my skin, but I can’t say skin care never falls to the wayside. On days I fall asleep before doing my full nighttime routine (including Exo-PDRN Prismatic+), my skin looks a little duller come morning. But a few pumps of this serum later, and my skin instantly perks up. It’s been a satisfying, glow-inducing addition to my skin-care routine, and I look forward to maintaining said glow in the coming months and reupping my supply of Prismatic+ when I run out. Moreover, whenever I’m at my derm’s office (Hi, Dr. Kim!) for my next round of Clear + Brilliant, I’ll be reaching for this as a post-laser treatment to soothe and intensely hydrate my skin. If you’re looking for a deeply hydrating serum that restores glow and bounce and makes your skin look healthier week after week, I can’t recommend Exo-PDRN Prismatic+enough.

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Medik8

Exo-PDRN Prismatic+

$96

Medik8

Meet the experts

• Kelly Dobos is a Cincinnati-based cosmetic chemist and an instructor for a laboratory course on color cosmetic formulations at the University of Cincinnati.
• David Kim, MD, is a New York City-based board-certified dermatologist and founder of Soho Dermatology.

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For our review of the Medik8 Exo-PDRN Prismatic+, we considered the product's performance across five primary categories: product ingredients and efficacy, packaging, fragrance, texture, and product wear—along with special consideration from a cosmetic chemist and board-certified dermatologist. To learn more information on our reporting and testing processes, read our complete reviews process and methodology page.

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Fashion Month is fun, but there's something so special about Paris's Haute Couture Week. It's where houses and designers get to show their most awe-inspiring, whimsical, over-the-top creations and where celebrities have fun getting all glammed up to match the vibes of their favorite designers. One such celebrity is Cardi B, who frequently attends Couture Week and always brings the drama with her hair, makeup, and wardrobe.

For the Robert Wun show in Paris—her second of the season so far—Cardi leaned into sculptural elements with her entire look, especially her hair. I keep wanting to call it a couture donut, but that doesn't adequately capture the precision and perfection of the updo. Cardi's dark hair, styled as always by her go-to hair artist Tokyo Stylez, was slicked back from her face and gathered into a truly enormous circular shape right at the top of her head. You can't call it a bun, because it's definitely not in topknot territory; this is an Updo with a capital “U,” given its height, size, and bold silhouette. It's a perfect circle, likely the work of a very strategic shaping accessory underneath the layers of her hair to hold the hair in place and set the foundation for such a unique shape.

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There's more to this updo than just its large size and round shape, however; it cleverly mimicked the motif of Cardi's red mermaid gown, what with its circular bodice and neckline; the dramatic flare of her skirt; and the bubbly red handbag she carried. Every little detail worked together so perfectly, which, come to think of it, is really the definition of couture.

Like I said above, Couture Week is a chance for stars to experiment and express themselves with their glam. In addition to Cardi, we spotted Sabrina Carpenter, fresh off attending Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce's wedding, sitting front row at Dior in a dramatic departure from her usual vintage bombshell hair: a pair of loose, wavy pigtail braids! If you've got a more formal occasion on your summer schedule (even if it's not a celebrity wedding or a couture show), why not take the opportunity to go big and bold with a fun updo? Cardi would be proud.