Category: POWER

$4 at Levitate BeautySave StorySave this storySave StorySave this story

TL;DR:

• What it is: Hydrogel undereye patches
• What it does: Soothes, hydrates, and brightens the eye area
• Who it’s for: Anyone looking for a quick way to tame tired, puffy undereyes

Last night, I got six hours of sleep. The night before that? Five. If that.

I don’t know what it is about 2026, but I don’t like it! It seems that, for now, getting seven hours of shut-eye is simply inconceivable for me. (What did I do to deserve this? 😭)

On mornings when my sleep was in the you-know-what the night before, aside from chugging my daily red-eye (a double espresso with cold brew), I like to pop on a pair of undereye masks to bring some sort of life back into my face.

Right now, I’m loving the Levitate Beauty Hydrogel Under Eye Masks, which are extra-large in size and in hydration. They’re packed with soothing ginseng root extract, moisture-locking glycerin, and brightening pearl extract to give tired, puffy undereyes a run for their money.

After 15 minutes, I gently peel them off, rub in any excess moisture, snap a quick selfie, and then move on to the rest of my skin-care routine before piling on the concealer.

You can find the Levitate Beauty Hydrogel Under Eye Masks, along with other editor-loved products, in the January Allure Beauty Box.

Get The Box

Levitate Beauty Hydrogel Under Eye Masks

$4 at Levitate Beauty$4 at Levitate Beauty

Photo: Getty ImagesSave StorySave this storySave StorySave this story

We can't see into the future, but we can always confidently predict that Megan Fox is going to have creative, intricate, enviable nail art. And today, she proved us right with a manicure that we can only describe as gorgeous pieces of a melting crystal ball.

Fox's favorite nail artist and founder of Lost Angels, Brittney Boyce, shared two beautiful close-ups of the actor and author's latest set, and it's absolutely magical. Finely shimmering teal seems to be swirling around under asymmetrical metallic trim, creating a uniquely mesmerizing effect.

Boyce tells Allure that Fox found her inspiration for the manicure on Pinterest (stars, they're just like us!), and from there, she got to work creating her version of the vision. “I created a custom press-on set for Megan using Aprés long, sculpted, almond tips for the extension base. The look was built by layering a jelly turquoise shade, then adding white stone detailing from Daily Charme for texture and contrast,” Boyce tells Allure. “I finished the set with a chrome effect using Kiara Sky chrome powder and added rhinestone accents for dimension and shine.”

Photo: Brittney BoycePhoto: Brittney Boyce

Somehow futuristic and Renaissance-coded all at once, these exquisite nails feel like exactly the kind of mystical, fantastical manicure Fox often gravitates toward. (And can't you just picture her going full fortune teller?) And while it may last only a few weeks, you don't need a crystal ball to know she'll have another mind-blowing manicure soon.

Photos: Courtesy of Tyler BinghamSave StorySave this storySave StorySave this story

I don’t consider myself a “beauty girlie.” I’m not subscribed to skin care-focused subReddits or YouTube channels. I never learned how to contour the first time it became popular in the 2010s, let alone new-wave techniques like underpainting. I can’t remember the last time I wore mascara or eyeliner—which, to be honest, are the only makeup I own.

But I'm still a woman in my mid-30s on Instagram, and the algorithm is hellbent on convincing me that I should be doing more. It’s a constant reminder that my everything—skin, hair, ass—could be smoother, longer, tighter, better. One second, I'm pausing mid-scroll, entranced by the seemingly poreless glass skin and visibly toned figure of a stranger in a video about their daily routine; the next, my feed is filled with ads for bio-collagen face masks and glute-growth workout programs.

Someone is always trying to sell us something on our feeds, and our desire to purchase is amplified by insecurity. I’d like to say I’m above the influence of such manipulation, but being served that kind of content daily has still had an impact. Sometimes I catch myself pausing in front of my full-length mirror a little longer than necessary, comparing my nose and thighs against the filtered faces and fitness influencers that inhabit my phone. The only way to avoid it is to avoid being online altogether, which isn’t in the cards for a writer like myself, whose income depends on keeping up with what’s relevant and engaging in self-promotion.

Little did I know that the antidote to my self-conscious doomscrolling would be as simple as sitting still long enough to be truly witnessed.

It wasn’t exactly a confidence boost I was seeking when I booked a live portrait session with Portland-based painter Tyler Bingham. It was the end of a beautiful, brutal summer. I’d come out the other side of a breakup that had emotionally devastated me, so I flung myself around Oregon, checking off all the boxes that had been on my to-visit list since I’d moved to Rose City six years before: Crater Lake, the Alvord Desert, the Wallowas.

I was in a season of wanting to be captured, of wanting to look closely at the woman who’d endured a heartbreak she thought she could not. I wanted permanent images of the in-flux person I was, especially in the midst of the constantly, instantly changeable social media landscape. Somewhere along the way, I had new headshots taken and even did an outdoor boudoir photoshoot in the Columbia River Gorge. Dressed in nothing but lingerie, I glanced back at the photographer’s camera while the sun set against the mountains behind me. It was an homage to the newfound freedom that accompanied my sadness.

Then I learned about the opportunity to be painted from life via Bingham’s Instagram stories (yes, I see the irony). He said to think of it like a tattoo session: up to eight interactive hours during which we’d collaboratively fashion an artistic heirloom in real time. Having sat for more than 20 tattoos, I immediately understood what he meant: Each artwork is like a time capsule, a fleeting moment of life permanently etched onto my body. The portrait session would externalize that process—and at $800 would cost less than some of my biggest tattoos. That it wouldn’t require needles digging into my skin would be a nice change.

"Sometimes, feeling beautiful is just a matter of slowing down, sitting still, and allowing yourself to be seen."

It was a chilly morning in early October when I arrived at Bingham’s studio space, a warehouse walk-up with exposed brick walls and high windows that opened onto the gentle traffic sounds below. The room lacked temperature control, forcing us to stay bundled in our Pacific Northwest layers as we opened with a getting-to-know-you chat and a guided meditation. The session’s focus: gratitude. When I opened my eyes, they landed on the facing wall where Bingham had painted the same word in bright blue, all-capital letters, underlined and punctuated like a sentence. A short distance away: OUR ATTENTION IS MORE VALUABLE THAN OUR TIME in no-nonsense black. I settled into a brightly painted chair across a folding table from Bingham, the canvas that would become my portrait propped up between us. I was about to be the subject of some very intense—and valuable—attention.

Bingham asked me to choose a spot somewhere behind him to fix my eyes. I didn’t have to stay stock-still or gaze there the whole time—our conversation would factor into the portrait and was part of what made the effort collaborative—but for most of the next eight hours, my home base was a single panel of silver-white light in a row of those high windows. Recently, Bingham told me, a client in her 70s had picked that same spot. At the end of their session, she reflected that it was the first time in her life she’d spent a whole day just watching the clouds go by.

It was already becoming obvious that, although Bingham’s work is beautiful, this experience of being painted from life had little to do with how I looked. Our conversation unfurled smoothly through the session. We talked with the intimacy—though not the informedness—of people who’d known each other for years. “How many times have you been in love?” Bingham prompted, his eyes flickering from mine down to the place on the canvas he was sketching them. It felt easy to offer an honest, emotional answer inside the bubble of this safe container, natural to ask the question in return. It wasn’t long before he offered me an opportunity to see the work in progress: a pencil outline over a field of orange, a color I didn’t love and wasn’t wearing. The choice seemed random to me, but as a writer, I appreciate the importance of trusting the process, so I stayed quiet.

As the morning progressed, light moved across and into the space, slowly heating the cold air. Soon, I shed the bulky sweater I’d walked in with, which Bingham had already drawn into the portrait. Now he was in the layering phase, so it was easy to paint it back off again, which he decided to do.

“That’s a really special part of this process, huh?” I commented. “Like, motion and change over time are part of it.”

“I think of it like painting light moving through people,” Bingham responded.

Instagram content

The time passed surprisingly quickly. We took a break around 1 p.m. to eat lunch—the first time either of us had checked our phones all day—and around 4 p.m., our session was done. I was eager to move my body after sitting still for so long, but when he showed me the almost-final product, which he would keep in his studio for a month to make final touches, I gasped. I had never seen myself quite like this before.

The painting’s colors work in a way that makes me understand that I’m not, and will never be, a visual artist: periwinkle across my cheekbone, a slide of minty green marking the curve of my chin, both perfect and unexpected. The brightness cast across both sides of my face does indeed capture the way the light moved through the room. I can see the shadow of the place where my sweater was originally painted, then removed. The fiery orange that had once suffused the entire canvas now only peeks through at my hair and clavicle. Together, the layers create a portrait of a woman I would describe as thoughtful, strong, steady—and plain.

Although Bingham offered no directions either way, I kept my look for the day of the painting low-profile. I maintained my usual makeup-free face and didn’t wear jewelry to the session; I chose clothing—a black tank top over black leggings—that could disappear into the background. When I sent a picture of the painting to a friend, she said it’s well-rendered but doesn’t capture my beauty. And maybe, in some customary, culturally-agreed-upon way, it doesn’t. There are ways to depict my physical features—like emphasizing the arch of my eyebrow or depicting me with a coy smile—that would fall better in line with what it means, in our world, to be beautiful.

"In the face of everything I am, the size of my ass or the smoothness of my skin have become afterthoughts rather than priorities or nagging insecurities."

But when I look at this image of myself, I see a kind of beauty we often overlook in the modern world, one that’s about character and authenticity and shared vulnerability. The painting captures an intimacy that, despite being built quickly and bluntly, felt deep—a friendship constructed in a single day. It’s as much a portrait of Bingham as it is of me, of the two of us in that particular moment. It captures where I was in space and time that day; what and how he saw.

I hung the portrait in my bedroom because it feels too intimate for a more public-facing part of the house. I stare at her over the foot of my bed: this woman who had come through grief she couldn’t have anticipated, a representation of the strength that will take me through everything else that’s coming. A fire that can’t be captured in an Instagram post.

In the face of everything I am, the size of my ass or the smoothness of my skin have become afterthoughts rather than priorities or nagging insecurities. I’m reminded by this portrait that focusing too much on the way my body looks can become an insult to the more important work of being the best version of the person my body carries. And that sometimes, feeling beautiful is just a matter of slowing down, sitting still, and allowing yourself to be seen.

Getty ImagesSave StorySave this storySave StorySave this story

As I write this, it's a crisp, chilly 12 degrees outside, but when I look at Selena Gomez's new manicure, it feels I'm soaking up the luxurious summer heat. The actor, singer, and Rare Beauty founder took matching to the next level with a bronze-themed manicure timed to the launch of Rare's new Warm Wishes Soft Matte Powder Bronzer and it feels like a sunny day—but for your nails.

For the celebratory event, Gomez and nail artist Tom Bachik chose an on-theme bronze nail polish combo that shimmers like the surface of the sun. After grooming and perfecting Gomez's cuticles, Bachik applied Aprés Gel Couleur's Serengeti Plains, a true, cool brown shade, then topped it with Aprés's Astral Gel in The Sun, a shape-shifting, glittering magnetic bronze with a very apt product name. Like many sparkly, cat-eye styles, the color appears to change with the light, too; in Gomez's selfie showing off her mani, the shade looks almost purple!

Instagram content

The rest of Gomez's launch event look was equally on-theme, with a wet-look bob crafted by hairstylist Marissa Marino and sultry smoky eye, bronzed skin courtesy the new powder bronzer, and a matching bronze lip by makeup artist Jenna Nicole.

Gomez's bronze nails are a 180-degree shift from her last set, a rich, glamorous short “velvet noir” black manicure that she wore for the 2026 Golden Globes with her Old Hollywood-esque, feathered Chanel gown. For that manicure, Bachik reached for Chanel's Le Vernis Longwear Nail Colour in Le Diable en Chanel, a velvety true black.

If your winter mood is “I need a vacation ASAP,” there's a trending celebrity manicure for you! If you like the bronze vibes of Gomez's latest set, consider Kylie Jenner's copper orange nails, Dua Lipa's rainbow confetti manicure, or Khloé Kardashian's pink shimmer holo mani. It's easy to bring a little sunshine with you wherever you go.

Photo: Getty ImagesSave StorySave this storySave StorySave this story

We've always loved how Martha Stewart, who undoubtedly has one of the most indelible signature looks in all of celebritydom, will occasionally throw everyone an elegantly festooned curveball and temporarily switch up her style in an unexpected way. From volumizing hair extensions to va-va-voom updos, the multi-hyphenate knows how to reimagine her quintessential blonde bob. But we were not ready for the new look she revealed on Friday.

Stylist Chris Appleton posted a collaborative reel with Stewart, writing, “Did a little transformation yesterday with Martha trying the mocha mousse hair trend color 🤎.” The video starts with Martha reading Appleton's book, Your Roots Don't Define You, while lip-syncing Lady Gaga's and Beyoncé's “Telephone” (didn't see that one coming either, to be honest), and a moment later, they reveal a gorgeous, side-parted, wavy lob doused in light brown lowlights.

But before you get too excited that Stewart has made a long-term change to her hair color, she chimed in in the comments to set the record straight

“This redo was done in fifteen minutes in our little Newstand recording studio in Rockefeller Center,” Stewart wrote, calling him a transformative artist. “After a podcast recording Chris whipped out a wig and some hair products and did a fabulous redo!”

Instagram content

If you're looking to do this kind of color on a more permanent level, Appleton recommends using Schwarzkopf Igora Vibrance 7.4 and 7.65, telling Allure, “It’s a rich, glossy look and the key to the Mocha Mousse hair trend is to create a vibrant, gloss-like finish rather than an opaque one.”

Fans are blown away by how stunning Stewart looks with this subtle yet major makeover. “Her hair looks stunning! What a great job!😍😍😍,” one commenter wrote, while another said, “I want this mocha mousse hair style now! 😍🙌❤️”

After all, Martha Stewart is still the ultimate influencer.

$20 at Blake Brown BeautySave StorySave this storySave StorySave this story

TL;DR:

• What it is: A hair mask
• What it does: Hydrates and softens strands
• Who it’s for: Anyone looking for a deep-conditioning treatment

Blake Lively doesn’t do conditioners. When she played Serena Van der Woodsen on Gossip Girl in the early aughts, she noticed that the show’s hairstylists only used masks after shampooing her hair. “They were like, ‘Oh God, no, we don't use conditioners,’” she told Allure in a previous interview.

Since then, she’s been conditioner-free—and hopes that now, you will be, too. In its place, you’d use her hair-care line’s Blake Brown Beauty Fundamental Nourishing Mask, which is chock-full of glycerin and sunflower seed extract to deeply hydrate and soften hair.

Even after just twisting off the tub’s gold top, it was clear to us that its cozy cardamom and cedarwood scent is worth the switch alone. Can you tell we’re big on fragrance here at Allure?

Like most hair masks, this one was formulated to be used after shampooing and rinsing. Instead of your go-to conditioner, you’d rake a dollop of this thick, butter-like cream into hair, starting from mid-lengths and working down to the ends.

The brand recommends leaving it on for two to five minutes (a good time to shave your legs, wash your body, or just vibe), then rinse it out for smoother, shinier strands come dry time. We found the best, most consistently shiny results after using it once a week. Thanks, Blake!

You can find the Blake Brown Beauty Fundamental Nourishing Mask, along with other editor-loved products, in the January Allure Beauty Box.

Get The Box

Blake Brown Beauty Fundamental Nourishing Mask

$20 at Blake Brown Beauty$20 at Blake Brown Beauty

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

Graduate from using your tattered T-shirt or coarse bath towel to one of the best hair towels to dry your delicate strands (that are already weakened when wet!). And before you raise your pretty little eyebrows—yes, there is a difference. Regular towels meant for your body can be rough on your hair, spurring frizz, breakage, and pesky split ends, while microfiber hair towels are designed to gently wick moisture. The benefits? Shorter drying time and smoother, shinier hair. Plus, the towels are cute, lightweight, and boast features like elastic loops or button fasteners to make twisting and securing a breeze. Scroll on for the best hair towels beloved by Allure editors and stylists.

Our Top Hair Towels

• Best Overall: Crown Affair Hair Towel, $59
• Best Hair Turban: Turbie Twist, $21
• Softest Hair Towel: Act+Acre Microfiber Hair Towel, $30
• Best Stay-in-Place: Sachajuan Hair Towel, $37
• Best Cotton Hair Towel: Cozy Earth Luxe Hair Towel, $54
• Best for Long Hair: Volo Super Hero XL Hair Towel, $48
• Best for Curly Hair: Rizos Curls Microfiber Towel + Wrap, $31

Frequently Asked QuestionsAccordionItemContainerButtonLargeChevron

• What are the benefits of using a hair towel?
• How should I use a hair towel?
• Meet the experts
• How we test and review products
• Our staff and testers

Best Overall: Crown Affair The Hair Towel

Save to wishlistSave to wishlist

Crown Affair

The Hair Towel

$59

Sephora

Allure senior commerce director Shanna Shipin wearing Crown Affair’s The Hair Towel

Shanna Shipin

Why it's worth it: Crown Affair is the “it girl” of hair towels, and the proof is in its 2025 Best of Beauty Award. l Not only is this extra-soft, generously-sized wrap a favorite among many of our editors, but New York City-based colorist Nikki Ferrara vouches for it, too. "It even speeds up the drying process, so it's great when you're in a rush and need to air-dry or just want to avoid the heat," she says. We love how the polyester-nylon blend is gentle on hair, complemented by a waffle-pattern microfiber that reduces friction as it dries. Larger than your average hair towel but smaller than a bath towel, it works for every hair length and texture.

Tester feedback from senior commerce director Shanna Shipin

AccordionItemContainerButtonLargeChevron

“The unsung hero of any curly girl's routine is the hair towel—and this one is, not to be dramatic, life-changing. It's gentle on hair, has an elastic band for the tail, and helps dry your hair fast. Never once has it fallen off my head, and I have thick hair that reaches my bra line. I know you're tempted to use that cotton tee, but the waffle texture on this towel makes all the difference.” —Shanna Shipin, shopping director

More to know

AccordionItemContainerButtonLargeChevron

• Who it's for: all hair types
• Material: polyester, nylon
• Machine washable: yes

Best Hair Turban: Turbie Twist

Save to wishlistSave to wishlist

Turbie Twist

Microfiber Hair Towel

$20

Amazon (2-Pack)

$21

Walmart (2-Pack)

Allure senior commerce editor Sarah Felbin wearing Turbie Twist’s Microfiber Hair Towel

Sarah Felbin

Why it’s worth it: Unlike a regular towel that you drape over your hair and try to scrunch and fuss with, the Turbie Twist has a tapered end that easily tucks into an elastic loop at the back of your head, so it stays put. The microfiber material fits comfortably and snugly (no slipping here!), so your hands stay free, and you don’t have to deal with loose fabric or a heavy towel weighing down your head. The cotton is also super soft, which helps prevent frizz and makes hair dry like a silky dream.

Tester feedback from senior commerce editor Sarah Felbin

AccordionItemContainerButtonLargeChevron

“I've been loyal to Turbie Twist since middle school. They're made from thin, lightweight microfiber that holds a ton of water without feeling too wet or soggy. The little elastic on the back easily holds the towel's tail, and I love how many colors they come in to match every set of towels or robe. Plus, they're very well-made—my current pair is 8 years old and still going strong, even though I've washed them dozens of times. They haven't pilled at all and they're still just as absorbent as they were on day one.”—Sarah Felbin, senior commerce editor

More to know

AccordionItemContainerButtonLargeChevron

• Who it’s for: all hair types
• Material: microfiber
• Washable: yes

Softest Hair Towel: Act+Acre Microfiber Hair Towel

Save to wishlistSave to wishlist

Act+Acre

Microfiber Hair Towel

$30

Dermstore

$30

Sephora

Allure commerce editor Sarah Han wearing the Act+Acre Microfiber Hair Towel

Sarah Han

Why it's worth it: The cozy, comfy, fluffy, and puffy Act+Acre Microfiber Hair Towel has all the friction-preventing, dry-time-cutting goodness you could hope for in a hair towel. Its elite softness is super gentle on hair and less likely to cause breakage than your standard towel. Let it soak up all that moisture for five to ten minutes, and enjoy the lack of frizziness.

Tester feedback from commerce editor Sarah Han

AccordionItemContainerButtonLargeChevron

“I admit: I was in the camp that all hair towels are all the same—but now I’ve changed my tune. I can't go back to any ‘ol hair towel because Act+Acre's waffle-knit microfiber feels like I've wrapped my hair in a cloud. And the positioning of the (big) button and length of the loop is just right because I'm not yanking them towards each other and pulling at my hair, which is often the case with other towels. Ouch. My only note is that it may not fit hair that’s longer than your bust (which is the longest mine usually gets!)." —Sarah Han, commerce editor

More to know

AccordionItemContainerButtonLargeChevron

• Who it's for: all hair types
• Material: waffle-knit microfiber
• Machine washable: yes, lay flat to dry

Best Stay-in-Place: Sachajuan Hair Towel

Save to wishlistSave to wishlist

Sachajuan

Hair Towel

$37

Dermstore

$37

Sachajuan

Allure contributing commerce editor Deanna Pai wearing the Sachajuan Hair Towel

Deanna Pai

Why it's worth it: Sachajuan makes some dreamy styling products, so when we stumbled upon its Hair Towel, we were totally delighted. Many hair towels slip off easily, but this super absorbent microfiber towel has a button closure in the back to hold your hair in place after twisting it up, so whether you’re deep cleaning, lying in bed, or getting ready after your shower, this one stays put. Pair it with Sachajuan's Detangling Hair Brush for silky-smooth, knot-free strands when you're ready to brush.

Tester feedback from contributing commerce editor Deanna Pai

AccordionItemContainerButtonLargeChevron

"I was surprised by the thick, nubby (but super-soft) texture of this hair towel—and it took me a minute to figure out how to put it on. I like how twisting it effectively squeezes extra water out of my hair without causing friction, and it doesn't feel overly large for my bob.” —Deanna Pai, contributing commerce editor

More to know

AccordionItemContainerButtonLargeChevron

• Who it's for: all hair types, short hair
• Material: microfiber
• Machine washable: yes, air-dry

Best Cotton Hair Towel: Cozy Earth Luxe Hair Towel

Save to wishlistSave to wishlist

Cozy Earth

Luxe Hair Towel

$54

Nordstrom

$54

Cozy Earth

Allure contributor Annie Blackman wearing the Cozy Earth Luxe Hair Towel

Annie Blackman

Why it's worth it: Cozy Earth's Luxe Hair Towel is basically the equivalent of a fancy hotel bathrobe for your hair. The luxe cotton gives it that sturdier feel, while the bamboo viscose blend dries your hair gently and securely, thanks to a no-budge elastic and button closure at the back. For our curly-haired friends, good news: Because experts say that microfiber towels can cause frizz in some curl textures, this cotton-based fabric is a great candidate for plopping, a.k.a. literally dropping your curls into the towel and tying it up to dry.

Tester feedback from contributor Annie Blackman

AccordionItemContainerButtonLargeChevron

“This is a no-fuss hair towel that I can count on to absorb quickly every time. What can I say other than it's gorg, it works, and it makes me feel fancy." —Annie Blackman, contributor

More to know

AccordionItemContainerButtonLargeChevron

• Who it's for: people with low-maintenance hair
• Material: cotton, bamboo viscose
• Machine washable: yes

Best for Long Hair: Volo Super Hero XL Hair Towel

Save to wishlistSave to wishlist

Volo

Hero Hair Towel

$48

Amazon

$48

Nordstrom

Allure commerce writer Lily Wohlner wearing the Volo Super Hero XL Hair Towel

Lily Wohlner

Why it's worth it: If you’ve got longer hair, Volo offers an XL version of its Hero Hair Towel, which clocks in at 39.4 x 30.5 inches compared to the original’s 39.4 x 23.5 inches. Both, however, are incredibly soft (think wrapping your hair in a cloud), which helps explain why they’re a two-time Allure Best of Beauty winner. A thick, snug elastic band at the back keeps the towel securely in place—even when you’re dancing around while getting ready—and the brand’s nano-weave fabric absorbs water quickly, cutting down drying time.

Tester feedback from commerce writer Lily Wohlner

AccordionItemContainerButtonLargeChevron

“I have long, curly, and fragile hair, so the thought of using a standard towel sends a shiver down my spine (hello, damage). A lot of hair towels I’ve tried don’t gather all my strands, but that changed when I found Volo’s Super Hero XL Hair Towel. It’s incredibly soft and never causes breakage—even when I’m in a rush and need to give my hair a quick scrunch. And as the name suggests, it’s big enough to hold all my hair, so no wet strands are left behind.” —Lily Wohlner, commerce writer

More to know

AccordionItemContainerButtonLargeChevron

• Who it's for: all hair types
• Material: polyester, nylon
• Machine washable: yes

Best for Curly Hair: Rizos Curls Microfiber Towel + Wrap

Save to wishlistSave to wishlist

Allure commerce producer Sarah Hoffmann wearing the Rizos Curls Microfiber Towel + Wrap

Sarah Hoffmann

Why it's worth it: Rizos Curls Microfiber Towel + Wrap is ideal for curls, coils, and waves because it's super absorbent, fits all your hair, and is plenty roomy, which means a comfortable fit that doesn't pinch your strands and, even worse, encourage breakage. While traditional terrycloth towels can disrupt your hair's curl pattern, this microfiber texture is super soft and gentle, so it won't rough up your strands or cause frizz. It has a built-in band for easily and securely wrapping your hair and an oversized shape to make sure all your hair, whether long or short, is covered.

Tester feedback from commerce producer Sarah Hoffmann

AccordionItemContainerButtonLargeChevron

“This hair towel made me a convert. Traditional hair towels are way too tight on my head, and this one is so easy to adjust to your desired looseness. I trust Rizos for curl products like no other brand, and the brand's hair towel is exactly the quality I'd expect, i.e. exceptional.” —Sarah Hoffmann, commerce producer

More to know

AccordionItemContainerButtonLargeChevron

• Who it's for: curly hair, textured hair
• Material: microfiber
• Machine washable: yes, can dry too

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the benefits of using a hair towel?

"Frizzy hair will be minimized, hair patterns will be more defined, breakage or split ends will be minimized, and they cut down the average drying time," explains Ferrara. So, what makes these towels so unique? Most are made from ultra-absorbent microfiber, which soaks up excess water faster than your average bath towel. "[Hair towels] also are known to be more gentle on hair because they feel more plush and soft compared to traditional terry cloth towels," Ferrara adds.

How should I use a hair towel?

If you're still dealing with any sopping after some time in a twist, California-based hairstylist Samuel Eugenio Rodney has a tip: "Gently squeeze excess water from the hair and wrap it in the towel," he previously told Allure. "Do not rub the towel aggressively to absorb water. This can damage the cuticle and leave your hair feeling dry and frizzy."

Meet the experts

• Nikki Ferrara, a New York City-based colorist
• Samuel Eugenio Rodney, a Lancaster, California-based hair stylist

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 certainly products that can be used across different hair textures, lengths, curl patterns, thicknesses, colors (natural and unnatural), and needs, hair products are often created with specific consumers in mind. Many are created in order to address a concern (dandruff, breakage, brittleness) or to work most effectively for a specific hair type (4C curls, wavy hair, gray hair). You wouldn’t want to pick up a purple shampoo that’s only been reviewed by someone with, say, auburn hair, or a diffuser that’s never been tested by anyone with curls—right?

For our review of the best hair towels, we enlisted the help of multiple editors, writers, contributors, and professional stylists—many of whom are also on their hair health journey. Testers considered performance across four primary categories: efficacy, texture and experience, absorbency, 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.

Karolis KaminskasSave StorySave this storySave StorySave this story

The best LED teeth whiteners have become one of the most popular at-home options for brightening your smile, but understanding what they actually do and how to use them correctly matters far more than the light itself. First off, LED lights don't brighten teeth alone; rather, they activate whitening gels that are actually responsible for breaking stains apart.

While these LED devices are often marketed as fast, effortless fixes, dentists agree that results depend on the whitening agent, proper application, and realistic expectations. Whitening is cumulative, foremost, as any dentist will emphasize. Results build gradually, so skipping days or overusing strong formulas can set you back. Maintenance also plays a role: Once you reach your desired shade, spacing out treatments helps preserve results without stressing enamel. Dentists also stress one crucial limitation: Whitening only works on natural teeth—not on veneers or crowns—a point often overlooked by people who expect uniform results, no matter the state of their smile.

Our Top LED Teeth Whiteners

• Best Overall: Colgate Optic White ComfortFit LED Teeth Whitening Kit, $50
• Best LED-Assisted Strips: Crest 3D Whitestrips Professional White and LED Accelerator Light, $80
• Best for Beginners: MySmile LED Teeth Whitening Kit, $33
• Best for Sensitive Teeth: Novashine Professional Teeth Whitening Kit, $69
• Best for Fast Results: Auraglow Teeth Whitening Kit, $48

Frequently Asked QuestionsAccordionItemContainerButtonLargeChevron

• Do LED lights actually whiten teeth?
• Are UV lights safe for teeth whitening?
• Meet the experts
• Our staff and testers

The good news is that there's no one-size-fits-all whitening method. Some kits prioritize speed, others are designed for sensitive teeth, and the application method, gel trays, pens, or strips, comes down to personal preference and lifestyle.

We consulted board-certified dentists to break down how LED-assisted whitening really works, what to look for in a formula, and how to avoid common mistakes that lead to uneven results or unnecessary sensitivity. With so many options on the market, we've rounded up the five best teeth whitening systems to help you achieve that picture-perfect smile.

Best Overall: Colgate Optic White ComfortFit LED Teeth Whitening Kit

Save to wishlistSave to wishlist

Colgate

Optic White ComfortFit LED Teeth Whitening Kit

$50

Amazon

$50

Walmart

Why we love it: If you want noticeable whitening without committing to trays or strips, Colgate Optic White ComfortFit LED Teeth Whitening Kit is double-dentist approved. It pairs an enamel-safe hydrogen peroxide serum with an LED mouthpiece that molds to your teeth, ensuring even coverage and more uniform results. “The mouthpiece distributes gel evenly, helping reduce uneven whitening, and the LED light may slightly accelerate results,” explains James Heaton, DDS, a board-certified dentist based in Chandler, Arizona. “It’s a solid option for patients seeking a gentle, comfortable, and reliable at-home whitening solution, particularly those prone to sensitivity.”

The hydrogen peroxide formula is designed to be gentle, a key reason this kit is often tolerated well by those prone to sensitivity. Ease of use and precision control are other standouts. “The Colgate whitening kit is easy to handle and allows you to paint the hydrogen peroxide on your teeth,” remarks Esteban Garza, DDS, a board-certified dentist based in Houston. 10 minutes a day is all it takes. The whitening pen contains enough serum for 21 treatments, comfortably covering the recommended 10-day protocol, with room for maintenance touch-ups.

More to know

AccordionItemContainerButtonLargeChevron

• Time required per session: 10 minutes
• Treatments included: 21
• What it comes with: flexible LED whitening light, teeth whitening pen, charging cable
• Key ingredients: hydrogen peroxide

Best LED-Assisted Strips: Crest 3D Whitestrips Professional White and LED Accelerator Light

Save to wishlistSave to wishlist

Crest

3D Whitestrips Professional White and LED Accelerator Light

$80 $75 (6% off)

Amazon

$51

Walmart

Why we love it: Designed to target coffee stains and natural tooth discoloration, the Crest 3D Whitestrips Professional Effects + Whitening Light stands out for its higher-strength formula and LED-assisted whitening process. It combines Crest’s enamel-safe hydrogen peroxide with flexible whitening strips and an LED-accelerated light to break down teeth stains more efficiently. Dr. Heaton notes that “the strips adhere well to teeth, ensuring even coverage, and the LED light may slightly accelerate results.”

The pack includes 20 total treatments, each with an upper and lower strip, supporting the recommended 20-day protocol for more noticeable brightening over time. Because the formula uses the same whitening ingredient dentists rely on, results tend to look cleaner and more uniform. It does require a longer daily commitment, but for people chasing faster, professional-level results at home, the payoff is worth it. For those prone to tooth sensitivity who still want visible whitening, Crest also offers a version specifically formulated to gently whiten without compromising results.

More to know

AccordionItemContainerButtonLargeChevron

• Time required per session: 60 minutes
• Treatments included: 20
• What it comes with: whitening strips, LED accelerator light
• Key ingredients: hydrogen peroxide

Best for Beginners: MySmile LED Teeth Whitening Kit

Save to wishlistSave to wishlist

MySmile

LED Teeth Whitening Kit

$28 $25 (11% off)

Amazon

$33

Ulta Beauty

Why we love it: If you're looking for an affordable entry into LED-assisted whitening, the MySmile LED Teeth Whitening Kit offers an approachable option. The formula relies on 35% carbamide peroxide, which breaks down more slowly than hydrogen peroxide, making it a better fit for anyone concerned about sensitivity. When paired with an LED whitening tray, the system accelerates stain breakdown in just 10 minutes per session.

The MySmile LED Teeth Whitening Kit is a good option for patients trying whitening for the first time or looking for a budget-friendly option, according to Dr. Heaton. “The results are gradual but noticeable with consistent use,” so this kit is best suited for mild discoloration rather than deep, set-in stains. Ingredients like glycerin and xylitol help keep the gel from feeling overly drying, while peppermint oil adds a mild, clean finish.

More to know

AccordionItemContainerButtonLargeChevron

• Time required per session: 10 minutes
• Treatments included: 21
• What it comes with: LED light, mouth tray, teeth whitening gel
• Key ingredients: carbamide peroxide, glycerin, xylitol

Best for Sensitive Teeth: Novashine Professional Teeth Whitening Kit

Save to wishlistSave to wishlist

Novashine

Professional Teeth Whitening Kit

$69

Amazon

Why we love it: Traditional whitening strips are notorious for triggering sensitivity, and Novashine’s Professional Teeth Whitening Kit takes a more comfort-first approach without sacrificing visible results. It combines a concentrated peroxide gel with a blue LED mouthpiece that uses cold-light technology, meaning it emits no heat, a key factor for minimizing nerve irritation during whitening. The gel is also formulated with potassium nitrate to help calm tooth nerves, alongside glycerin to reduce enamel dehydration and reduce enamel dehydration.

One feature that truly sets this kit apart is its built-in progress tracking. As Dr. Garza explains, it's “very similar to the Colgate, but this kit offers a shade guide that can help the patient see how they are progressing with their whitening journey,” which makes expectations clearer and results easier to monitor over time. Again, application matters here. “You only want to apply gel on the walls of the mouthpiece, not on the biting surface since the LED light will not reach that area,” Dr. Garza says. Brushing your teeth before and after treatment helps avoid irritation from residual gel, he adds.

More to know

AccordionItemContainerButtonLargeChevron

• Time required per session: 15 minutes
• Treatments included: 20
• What it comes with: LED mouthpiece, two gel syringes, travel bag, shade card, instruction card, USB cord
• Key ingredients: potassium nitrate, glycerin

Best for Fast Results: Auraglow Teeth Whitening Kit

Save to wishlistSave to wishlist

AuraGlow

Teeth Whitening Kit

$48

Amazon

$48

Walmart

Why we love it: Stubborn coffee, wine, and smoking stains don't stand a chance against Auraglow’s Complete LED Whitening Kit. It pairs a high-strength 35% carbamide peroxide gel with an LED accelerator light that’s engineered to activate the whitening molecules more efficiently, helping lift years of discoloration in as little as 30 minutes per session. Carbamide peroxide is widely considered the gold standard for at-home whitening because it breaks down gradually into hydrogen peroxide, allowing it to penetrate stains while remaining enamel-safe (when used as directed, of course).

Dr. Garza notes that it’s “very similar” to professional kits but appreciates that “you have enough bleach for 20 treatments with a syringe that helps you put the exact amount,” adding that the included storage case and charger make it especially travel-friendly. He also emphasizes the importance of post-treatment care, advising you to avoid eating or drinking for up to four hours after use and to avoid anything that would “stain a white T-shirt” while whitening.

More to know

AccordionItemContainerButtonLargeChevron

• Time required per session: 30 minutes
• Treatments included: 20
• What it comes with: LED mouthpiece, rechargeable LED light, two gel syringes, storage case, charging cable
• Key ingredients: carbamide peroxide

Frequently Asked Questions

Do LED lights actually whiten teeth?

Both Dr. Heaton and Dr. Garza agree that lights alone don’t whiten teeth. “The main whitening effect comes from the peroxide-based gel, not the light itself,” Dr. Heaton explains. “When paired with a reputable whitening gel, the light may accelerate results slightly, but we still need better studies to really confirm this,” he adds. In other words, the light’s role is to activate the whitening agent, but it isn’t essential for achieving a brighter smile.

A quick tip if you’re new to whitening is to do a patch test before your first full session. This lets you catch any sensitivity early and adjust your approach, like shortening wear time or spacing out treatments, before diving into the full protocol.

Are UV lights safe for teeth whitening?

“Most at-home whitening lights use LED rather than true UV light, which is much safer for enamel and gums,” says Dr. Heaton, noting that these devices are generally safe when used as directed with a proper whitening gel. Dr. Garza adds important context, explaining that “UV lights were used in the past…but they changed to blue LED lights because UV had tissue irritation,” which is why modern blue LED systems are now the standard. That said, he cautions that “When placed too close to the tooth, blue LED can heat the tooth [and] cause tooth sensitivity,” underscoring the importance of following manufacturer instructions rather than extending wear time or intensity.

Meet the experts

• James Heaton, DDS, a board-certified dentist at Smiles of Chandler in Chandler, Arizona
• Esteban Garza, DDS, a board-certified dentist based in Houston

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.

$28.50 at Paul MitchellSave StorySave this storySave StorySave this story

TL;DR:

• What it is: A styling serum
• What it does: Smooths, softens, and adds shine to hair
• Who it’s for: Anyone looking for a styler that can tame frizz and flyaways

My skin-care routine may be six or seven products long, but when it comes to doing my hair, I’m lucky if I work in a brush before leaving the house. I truly cannot be bothered with heat-styling—it’s far too damaging on my fine, color-treated hair.

Instead, I’ll shower at night, braid my long hair into a single, tight plait, and then hope to the silk pillowcase gods that my strands are smooth and my cowlick is controlled come morning. But sometimes, the gods leave me on Read, and I’m forced to take the flyways into my own hands.

Good thing the Paul Mitchell Super Skinny Serum is so easy to use. The silky elixir—swarmed with smoothing silicones and sweet notes of apple and berries—curbs static in literal seconds (my hero!).

Although you don’t need to, I like to warm it before finger-combing it through strands. (I use about a dime- to nickel-size amount, depending on the severity of the distraught.) This also ensures I’m not rubbing gobs into sections of my hair, and that it’s evenly distributed. Whether I pull my hair back or keep it down with a slight wave (remember, from the braid?), the effect is universal: a sleek, shiny finish.

You can find the Paul Mitchell Super Skinny Serum, along with other editor-loved products, in the January Allure Beauty Box.

Get The Box

Paul Mitchell Super Skinny Serum

$28.50 at Paul Mitchell$28.50 at Paul Mitchell

Photo: Getty ImagesSave StorySave this storySave StorySave this story

Skin cancer is the most commonly diagnosed form of cancer in the United States and, according to the American Cancer Society’s (ACA) new annual report, it’s on the rise: The organization estimates that the number of new melanoma cases diagnosed in 2026 will be 10.6 percent higher than in 2025.

Now, this isn’t exactly something to freak out about—at least not yet. Deborah S. Sarnoff, MD, a board-certified dermatologist and president of The Skin Cancer Foundation, says that advancements in dermoscopy (non-invasive skin imaging) and other new technologies contribute to higher rates of diagnoses for melanoma. Better tools (and hopefully, more frequent skin checks) mean more cases that might not have been caught otherwise. But, she adds, “We also have an aging population here in the United States, and as people live longer with cumulative sun exposure, their chances of developing skin cancer are higher.” It’s true: A sunburn you got as a teenager can, in fact, be part of the reason why you receive a skin cancer diagnosis today.

The report also reveals that in the past decade, the number of new invasive melanoma cases diagnosed annually increased by 46.6 percent, which Dr. Sarnoff calls “alarming.” Almost 90 percent of melanomas, she says, are linked to UV radiation, mostly from good old-fashioned sun exposure but also from indoor tanning. “We now have a population that tried tanning beds for the first time as young adults who are now reaching midlife and dealing with this potentially life-threatening disease as a consequence of exposure to high levels of UV radiation earlier in life," says Dr. Sarnoff.

Unfortunately, the new generation hasn’t necessarily learned from the previous ones’ mistakes. Gen Z’s infatuation with crisping up in artificial sunlight could also be contributing to the rise in skin cancer. The trend continues despite years of evidence of the dangers of tanning beds, including a study published just this past December out of Northwestern Medicine and the University of California, San Francisco, which found that tanning bed usage triples the risk of skin cancer and that UV light from tanning beds causes “melanoma-linked DNA damage across nearly the entire skin surface.”

While that sounds bleak, do keep in mind that more people are surviving the deadliest form of the disease—invasive melanoma—than ever before. The ACA report also states that mortality rates have dropped two to three percent a year over the last decade, thanks to advances in treatment and increased awareness about skin cancer.

Although factors like genetics can increase your risk of getting skin cancer, there are many measures you can take to protect yourself—like limiting your time in direct sunlight, wearing an SPF 30 (or higher!) every day, and staying far, far away from tanning beds. And please, please don’t put off getting your skin checked. “When caught in its earliest stages, melanoma has a 99 percent survival rate,” Dr. Sarnoff says. “So please, see your dermatologist for an annual skin exam—or more often if you're at high risk—and check your skin monthly for anything new, changing or unusual.”