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“Less is more” as a skin-care philosophy feels like a far-flung notion of a forgotten society, one that was built by people with cell phones that had antennas and highlights courtesy of lemon juice. A time when things were simpler and more straightforward.

In 2026, the beauty industry has consumers wrapped around its well-manicured, perfectly hydrated finger. The skin-care industrial complex channels the popular Daft Punk song: everything must be harder, better, faster, stronger, in order to break through the noise of thousands of products lining shelves at your favorite beauty store. How we like to see it: Better ingredients, faster results, stronger formulations, and knowing exactly what is worth valuable cabinet space and, most importantly, your hard-earned coin (the “harder,” in this instance).

The reality is simple: We don’t need every product. We don’t even need most of them—though if you are a maximalist and like to have fun with beauty, go ahead, we’re not here to judge. Below, dermatologists weigh in on what skin-care steps are vital, what ingredients check multiple boxes, and how you can maximize products you may already have to save time and money.

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In 2016, Keke Palmer played Marty Maraschino, one of the Pink Ladies, in the TV special Grease Live! While it's been over a decade since she crooned “Freddy My Love,” Palmer proved that it's always a good time to think pink—both with an update to her hair color and the prettiest rosy eye shadow.

Palmer did double duty as host and performer at the 2026 Billboard Women in Music Awards and absolutely lit up the red carpet pre-show with a gorgeous twist on her go-to copper hair color, styled by hairstylist Ashanti Lation. She's changed up her pixie's hue a few times in the recent past, including a darker auburn and a highlighted brunette, but for the Billboard event, she added a subtle hint of the prettiest warm deep pink and strawberry tones to her hair, reminiscent of one of those take-your-breath-away sunsets. The colors mingled together in an ombré pattern and shifted depending on the light.

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Palmer and makeup artist Kenya Alexis carried the pink theme through to her makeup, with bright rose-pink eye shadow brushed across her entire lid and outward, defined with bold strokes of winged liner and long, wispy eyelashes. A similar shade of soft, petal-pink blush was applied high up on her cheekbones for a monochromatic feel. Later in the show, Alexis added more sparkle to Palmer's eye makeup, including diamond stones to frame her brows and lots of sparkle across her lids.

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Palmer has been “having a ball” with her short hair. “The pixie lets me keep the flavor, style, funk, but at the same time, I can keep up with it day to day,” she told Allure, nothing that she gets the sides and back cut every two weeks and gets a refresher on her relaxer every four weeks. “I know a lot of people feel like the pixie is difficult, but if you have a good foam, some good edge control to add up in there and give it texture, and you're not afraid of letting some of your texture shine through, then you can enjoy your pixie cut and not be afraid to touch it.”

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A bouquet is always lovely—Chanel gifts are unforgettable. This Mother’s Day, we’re spotlighting the iconic brand's most noteworthy beauty picks that Allure editors swear by: skin care, makeup, fragrance, and polished little luxuries that feel every bit as special as they look. Think a handbag-friendly spritz of Coco Mademoiselle, a glow-boosting foundation that nails that effortless radiance, and treatment-level formulas that turn everyday routines into something a little more indulgent. Whether you’re celebrating your mom, a mother figure, or yourself (highly encouraged), consider this your shortcut to gifting that feels thoughtful, elevated, and unmistakably Chanel. Browse our favorite picks below—and don’t miss the rest of Allure’s gift guides for even more ideas.

Our Top Chanel Mother's Day Gifts

• Eau Yes: Coco Mademoiselle Eau de Parfum Purse Spray, $200
• Fresh Face: No. 1 de Chanel Expert Revitalizing Serum Duo, $230
• Let It Glow: Les Beiges Healthy Glow Foundation, $65
• Perfect Pout: Sublimage L’Extrait Huile Lèvres Ultimate Lip Oil, $360
• Pro Tips: Le Vernis Longwear Nail Colour, $33

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• Our Favorite Chanel Gift Sets
• Our Favorite Chanel Makeup Gifts
• Our Favorite Chanel Skin-Care Gifts
• How we test and review products
• Our staff and testers

Our Favorite Chanel Gift Sets

No. 5 Eau de Parfum Twist and Spray Set

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Chanel

No. 5 Eau de Parfum Twist and Spray Set

$255

Chanel

Allure features director Dianna Singh applying the Chanel No. 5 Eau de Parfum Twist and Spray

Dianna Singh

Why she'll love it: Even if she’s in jeans and a tee, Chanel's No. 5 Eau de Parfum Twist and Spray Set adds that polished, finished touch—like a red lip in fragrance form. Launched over a century ago, this iconic scent still feels unmistakably modern, thanks to its signature blend of sparkling aldehydes (think: a champagne-like fizz) layered over a floral heart of jasmine, rose, and ylang-ylang, all grounded by a warm, elegant base of sandalwood, vetiver, and vanilla. This set makes it even more giftable, pairing a full-size bottle with a sleek, spill-free purse spray, so she can keep that effortlessly put-together energy going wherever the day takes her.

No. 1 de Chanel Expert Revitalizing Serum Duo

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Chanel

N°1 de Chanel Expert Revitalizing Serum Duo

$230

Chanel

Why she'll love it: If she’s all about skin care, she’ll love unwrapping the No. 1 de Chanel Expert Revitalizing Serum Duo, which comes in a compact red case that’ll stand out on her vanity. Two Revitalizing Serums (one for the eyes and the other for the face) contain powerhouse ingredients: red camellia extract to protect skin from environmental stressors and peptides to target fine lines and wrinkles. "The silky formula instantly seeps into the surface of my skin and makes it feel soft and pillowy," says one former Allure editor. Meanwhile, the Revitalizing Eye Serum comes with a cooling, rotating steel applicator for a spa treatment-like feel.

Coco Mademoiselle Eau de Parfum Purse Spray

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Chanel

Coco Mademoiselle Eau de Parfum Purse Spray

$195

Chanel

$195

Macy’s

Why she'll love it: While Chanel No. 5 leans more statement-making, if fresh and floral is more her fragrance vibe, Coco Mademoiselle feels a little more wearable for everyday. This set comes in a purse spray format, and honestly, the packaging alone makes it gift-worthy: a pearl-like glass bead and camellia charm are strung on a delicate golden chain that can be worn around the wrist, so it doubles as jewelry (and yes, it comes with two refills, so she’s set).

The scent itself is bright and inviting from the first spritz, with a burst of juicy orange that instantly wakes things up, followed by soft florals like jasmine and rose. It settles into a warmer, more grounded finish thanks to patchouli and vetiver, but never loses that clean, polished feel.

Power Pair Skincare Set

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Chanel

Power Pair Skincare Set

$257

Nordstrom

$257

Ulta Beauty

Why she'll love it: At first glance, she’ll think you got her a Chanel bag, but it doesn’t stop there. The Chanel N°1 de Chanel Power Pair Skincare Set pairs the Revitalizing Serum with the N°1 de Chanel Cream, all tucked into a chic, reusable pouch that feels just as luxe as what’s inside. Featuring red camellia extract (the star ingredient across the line), the serum and cream team up to smooth, plump, and revive radiance—basically, the kind of glow that makes skin look well-rested, even after years of motherhood (and all that comes with it).

The serum is lightweight but packed with hydrators like glycerin and sodium hyaluronate, plus peptides and adenosine to support smoother-looking skin over time, while the cream layers on nourishment with camellia oils, shea butter, and barrier-supporting ceramides for that soft, cushioned finish. It’s equal parts indulgent and effective—and makes her fees special the second she opens it.

Our Favorite Chanel Makeup Gifts

Les Beiges Healthy Glow Foundation

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Chanel

Les Beiges Healthy Glow Foundation

$69

Chanel

$69

Nordstrom

$69

Ulta Beauty

Allure contributing commerce writer Christa Joanna Lee applying the Chanel Les Beiges Healthy Glow Foundation

Christa Joanna Lee

Why she'll love it: Foundation might not be the first thing that comes to mind for Mother’s Day, but Chanel's Les Beiges Healthy Glow Foundation is exactly the kind of practical gift that feels extra thoughtful (and if she already uses it, even better—you know she’ll love it down to the very last drop). True to its name, the formula delivers a healthy glow with light-to-medium, skin-evening coverage that never looks heavy. It’s packed with light-reflecting pigments to subtly blur and smooth, while ingredients like glycerin and meadowfoam seed oil keep skin feeling comfortable and hydrated, and ultra-fine mineral powders give it that soft, lit-from-within finish. The texture is weightless and silky—and every time she catches that glow, she’ll think of you.

Lee before applying the Chanel Les Beiges Healthy Glow Foundation

Christa Joanna Lee

Lee after applying the Chanel Les Beiges Healthy Glow Foundation

Christa Joanna Lee

Le Volume de Chanel Mascara

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Chanel

Le Volume de Chanel Mascara

$40

Chanel

$40

Nordstrom

Allure commerce editor Sarah Han using the Le Volume de Chanel Mascara

Sarah Han

Why she'll love it: No falsies needed with the Le Volume de Chanel Mascara—the star ingredient, acacia gum, helps lashes hold a curl and dries down quickly (no smudging in sight). Even the mascara's wand is smart: The combo of short and long bristles helps make sure the inky black, brown, or navy formula coats every lash evenly. "It's like wow: thicker, fuller, drama, sexy, and sultry," New York City-based makeup artist Joseph Carrillo told Allure. Our editors are fans, too: "My itty-bitty lashes always need ample help, and Chanel's Le Volume delivers noticeable volume from the very first swipe—and, importantly, doesn't make my lashes look overly spidery,” says Allure commerce editor Sarah Han.

Han before using the Le Volume de Chanel Mascara

Sarah Han

Han after using the Le Volume de Chanel Mascara

Sarah Han

Les 9 Ombres Eyeshadow Palette in The Space Traveler

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Chanel

Les 9 Ombres Eyeshadow Palette

$160

Chanel

$160

Bloomingdale’s

Why she'll love it: Pulling a Chanel compact out of your bag is a major power move, especially this limited-edition Les 9 Ombres Eyeshadow Palette in The Space Traveler. Inside, you’ll find nine matte, shimmery, and metallic shades that strike that sweet spot between wearable and just a little unexpected. Yes, there are easy neutrals for everyday, but it’s the pops—like a bright, electric blue and an iridescent pink—that make this palette feel special. They’re the kind of shades she might not pick up for herself, but once she has them, they become the fun, mood-boosting extras: a swipe of blue along the lash line for a subtle statement, or a tap of pink on the lids or inner corners to catch the light in the prettiest way.

It’s playful without being intimidating, and a reminder that makeup can still feel like a creative escape, not just another step in the routine. To secure your gifting MVP status, pick up a Chanel eye shadow brush to go with it, so they’ll get the perfect blend every time.

Han using the Les 9 Ombres Eyeshadow Palette

Sarah Han

Han after using the Les 9 Ombres Eyeshadow Palette

Le Vernis Longwear Nail Colour

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Chanel

Le Vernis Longwear Nail Colour in Cavalier Seul

$32

Chanel

$32

Nordstrom

Allure senior shopping director Shanna Shipin wearing Chanel Le Vernis Longwear Nail Colour

Shanna Shipin

Why she'll love it: Take it from us—this isn’t just any cute bottle. Chanel’s Le Vernis Longwear Nail Colour is a high-shine, high-performing polish that’ll stay chip-free for up to a week. "What first grabs you are the shade offerings. There are the legends, from the perfect nude-pink 'Ballerina' to the quintessential red 'Pirate,' but what keeps me coming back are the seasonal shades,” Allure senior commerce director Shanna Shipin says. “I've used these polishes with and without base or topcoats, and I've always been impressed by how long they last, even without any protective layers. They also happen to make the perfect presents.” One chic Mother's Day gift, coming right up.

Chanel Les Beiges Healthy Glow Sun-Kissed Powder

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Chanel

Chanel Les Beiges Healthy Glow Sun-Kissed Powder

$95

Chanel

Why she'll love it: If you can’t exactly whisk her away on a well-deserved vacation, consider this the next best thing: bringing the vacation glow to her. The girl who finally hit pan on her everyday bronzer will love upgrading to the Les Beiges Healthy Glow Sun-Kissed Powder, an oh-so-buttery formula infused with emollients for a second-skin feel. It’s a blush, bronzer, and highlighter combo with a subtle sheen (no chunky glitter here) she can use separately to sculpt or together for that all-over glow.

Our Favorite Chanel Skin-Care Gifts

La Crème Main

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Chanel

La Crème Main

$65

Chanel

$62

Nordstrom

$62

Ulta Beauty

Han applying the Chanel La Crème Main

Sarah Han

Why she'll love it: The hands that do it all—applying bandages to boo-boos, packing lunches, and enduring what feels like endless rounds of late-night dishwashing—deserve a little luxury, and Chanel La Crème Main delivers. This isn’t your average hand cream: The silky, lightweight formula absorbs instantly (no greasy phone prints here) while leaving skin soft, supple, and subtly luminous—basically, manicure-ready at all times. It relies on ceramides to support the moisture barrier, camellia oil to nourish and comfort, and camellia yeast for a hit of hydration, plus iris extract to gently brighten. Nails look healthier, cuticles feel smoother, and hands get that polished, just-took-a-minute-for-myself finish. And the scent? "It has the perfect level of floral notes that’s not too subtle nor overwhelming; I can’t get enough!” says Han.

Hydra Beauty Micro Sérum Lèvres

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Chanel

Hydra Beauty Micro Sérum Lèvres

$60

Chanel

$60

Ulta Beauty

Singh applying the Chanel Hydra Beauty Micro Sérum Lèvres

Dianna Mazzone Singh

Why she'll love it: The lady who’s never without a lip combo in her purse deserves the Hydra Beauty Micro Sérum Lèvres, made with hydrating hyaluronic acid and antioxidant-packed white camellia flower extract for soft, smooth lips. The thin formula is never gloopy or sticky, either. “I keep a tube on my nightstand for easy access before bed, but it's also been known to make an appearance in my vegetable drawer,” says Allure features director Dianna Singh. “The cold of the fridge makes it even more refreshing to apply.”

Le Lift Pro Crème Volume

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Chanel

Le Lift Pro Crème Volume

$200

Chanel

$200

Nordstrom

Allure social director Kassidy Silva using the Le Lift Pro Crème Volume

Kassidy Silva

Why she'll love it: This luxe Chanel Le Lift Pro Crème Volume first won us over back in 2023, when we gave it an Allure Best of Beauty Award. Since then, we continue to be impressed by its super-soothing formula. Le Lift Pro Créme Volume is made with melipona enzymatic honey sourced from Costa Rica, which can reduce inflammation, and Centella asiatica (commonly known as cica), which calms redness. Add glycerin and shea butter, and you've got a deeply hydrating, restorative moisturizer that feels like a treat to apply. Bonus for those with sensitive skin: It's fragrance-free.

Sublimage Le Masque

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Chanel

Sublimage Le Masque

$316

Chanel

$316

Bloomingdales

Why she'll love it: From Chanel’s Sublimage line, the Le Masque Ultimate Mask contains fine-line-smoothing vanilla planifolia extract, plus moisture-locking ceramides, jojoba seed oil, and shea butter. These lipids are biomimetic (meaning they’re modeled after the natural ones in your skin barrier), so they’re particularly good for dry, irritated skin. As they use the mask over time—twice a week for at least 10 minutes is the sweet spot—they’ll notice their skin tone and texture look more even. This face mask comes in clever packaging, too: The jar is refillable, and the insert can be taken out, making the mask easier to pack in a carry-on or makeup bag.

Sublimage L'Extrait Huile Lévres Ultimate Lip Oil

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Chanel

Sublimage L'Extrait Huile Lévres Ultimate Lip Oil

$360

Chanel

$360

Nordstrom

Why she'll love it: Yes, this lip oil is pricey—but it's the perfect she-wouldn’t-buy-it-for-herself treat. Hear us out: The Sublimage L’Extrait Huile Lèvres Ultimate Lip Oil is an overnight treatment made with lip-plumping peptides and the same vanilla planifolia extract as Le Masque (also from the Sublimage line). Together, these ingredients maximize skin’s natural repair process (which kicks in while you sleep) to boost volume and target texture. On the outside, we’re big fans of the sleek packaging and precise, cooling metal applicator. It’s a gift your recipient might not otherwise treat themselves to and one they’ll use every day (the best combo, if you ask us).

Frequently Asked Questions

How we test and review products

Before reviewing any makeup, we ask questions about a number of factors: What ingredients are in it? Does the brand offer a wide shade range inclusive of consumers with all skin tones and undertones? Is it safe for readers who have sensitive skin or wear contact lenses? Is it on the affordable side or more of a splurge? Is its packaging consciously designed or needlessly wasteful?

For our review of the best Chanel gifts, we enlisted the help of multiple editors, writers, and contributors to review the products. This ensures our testing base spans different skin tones, genders, and dermatological conditions. We considered each product’s performance across four primary categories: ingredients, wear and longevity, packaging, and inclusivity. 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.

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The best cellulite creams promise smoother, firmer-looking skin, but what can they actually do? According to Alessandra Haskin, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in New York City, cellulite is “a multifactorial structural change in the skin” that occurs when fat pushes up against bands of connective tissue beneath the surface, creating the familiar dimpled look. It’s influenced by everything from hormones and genetics to aging and lifestyle—so, no, it’s not something a single cream can magically erase.

That said, the right formulas can make a visible difference where it counts. “Cellulite creams can temporarily improve the visibility of cellulite dimples on the skin’s surface but can’t improve the structural issues beneath the skin,” Dr. Haskin explains. Think smoother, more hydrated, and more even-looking skin—not a total disappearance.

Our Top Cellulite Creams

• Best Overall: Jan Marini CelluliTx Cellulite Cream, $137
• Best for Mature Skin: Murad Retinal Resculpt Body Treatment, $79
• Best for Thighs: Paula’s Choice Retinol Body Treatment, $32
• Best for Butt: Sol de Janeiro Brazilian Bum Bum Cream, $48

Many of today’s standout options focus on improving skin quality with ingredients that boost hydration, support collagen, and refine texture, which can make cellulite less noticeable over time. Consider them a supporting player in your routine, especially when paired with consistency, healthy habits, and (if you’re going all in) in-office treatments.

Frequently Asked QuestionsAccordionItemContainerButtonLargeChevron

• Do cellulite creams actually work?
• What ingredients should I look for in a cellulite cream?
• Are the results of cellulite creams permanent?
• Meet the experts
• How we test and review products
• Our staff and testers

Best Overall: Jan Marini CelluliTx Cellulite Cream

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Jan Marini

CelluliTx Cellulite Cream

$140

Dermstore

$137

Amazon

$137

Bluemercury

Why it's worth it: Why not just stack all the hardest-working actives into one formula? Sounds ideal, but in reality, it’s tricky to pull off. “It’s difficult (and expensive) for brands to formulate stabilized retinols in products that also combine other active ingredients,” says Dr. Haskin. Jan Marini’s CelluliTx Cellulite Cream manages to successfully bring together all-trans-retinol (just the technical name for retinol you’ll see on an over-the-counter ingredient label), caffeine, and peptides—what Dr. Haskin calls “one of the few formulations to combine the most effective core ingredients for smoothing cellulite.”

On top of that, circulation-boosting extras like capsaicin and glaucine deliver a smoothing effect. And despite its high-powered lineup, it’s fragrance-free, so it still feels approachable for sensitive skin.

More to know

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• Key ingredients: caffeine, all-trans-retinol, peptides (tripeptide-41, acetyl decapeptide-3), capsaicin, glaucine
• Fragrance-free: yes

Best for Mature Skin: Murad Retinal Resculpt Body Treatment

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Murad

Retinal Resculpt Body Treatment

$79

Sephora

Why it's worth it: If you’re dealing with both cellulite and the texture shifts that come with mature skin, retinaldehyde (a.k.a. retinal) is the ingredient to zero in on. “Retinal is as close as you can get to retinoic acid (the main ingredient in Retin-A) without a prescription,” says Maryam Safaee, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in Los Angeles. This means it works more directly—and often more effectively—than retinol, which has to go through additional conversion steps before your skin can use it.

That’s what makes Murad’s Retinal ReSculpt Body Treatment a go-to for mature skin. While the encapsulated retinal drives “stronger cell turnover and collagen stimulation,” it also improves crepiness and laxity over time, according to Dr. Haskin. The formula goes beyond vitamin A, too, with peptides and antioxidants like milk thistle and bearberry extracts to help smooth and even tone. There’s also bentonite clay-encapsulated shea butter, which delivers hydration gradually—making it ideal for skin that tends to lose moisture more quickly. “It has a nice thick, whipped texture that feels very luxe,” says Dr. Haskin.

More to know

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• Key ingredients: retinal (percentage undisclosed), shea butter, squalane, milk thistle extract, bearberry
• Fragrance-free: no

Best for Thighs: Paula’s Choice Retinol Body Treatment

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Paula's Choice

Retinol Body Treatment

$32

Amazon

$32

Dermstore

$32

Paula’s Choice

Why it's worth it: The skin on your thighs is thicker and covers a larger area, which is why ingredients need time (and consistency) to build up visible results. On top of that, thigh cellulite is tied to deeper structural factors, such as fat distribution and connective tissue, so topical “quick fixes” don’t work. Luckily, the Paula’s Choice Retinol Body Treatment has a luxe, lightweight texture that sinks in quickly—thanks to conditioning emollients like shea butter and evening primrose oil—so it’s the kind of formula you’ll want (and remember) to apply every day to keep your routine consistent.

The formula pairs beginner-friendly 0.1% retinol, which “is one of the few ingredients that can actually improve the appearance of cellulite over time by stimulating collagen production,” says Kristina Collins, MD, a double board-certified dermatologist based in Austin. “By thickening the dermis, it can make the dimpling caused by underlying fat deposits less visible.”

You’re also getting barrier-supporting hydrators like glycerin and panthenol, plus antioxidant support from vitamin C, vitamin E, and carnosine to “support overall skin quality so skin has more elasticity,” says Dr. Haskin.

More to know

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• Key ingredients: 0.1% retinol, shea butter, evening primrose oil, vitamin C, vitamin E, and carnosine
• Fragrance-free:

Best for Butt: Sol de Janeiro Brazilian Bum Bum Cream

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Sol De Janerio

Brazilian Bum Bum Cream

$48

Amazon

$48

Sephora

$48

Ulta Beauty

Why it's worth it: When you’re talking about cellulite creams, you’re usually thinking of formulas that feel more practical than indulgent, but Sol de Janeiro’s Brazilian Bum Bum Cream doesn’t scream “treatment” (and that’s kind of the point). “For areas like the butt, where circulation and localized fat distribution play a bigger role, I tend to favor caffeine-based formulations like this,” says James Wang, MD, a double board-certified dermatologist based in California. “Cellulite in the butt is more influenced by fluid retention and the skin is thicker in this area; therefore, caffeine-containing products may work better,” adds Dr. Haskin.

This one gets its edge from guaraná extract—a plant source with roughly four times the caffeine of coffee, according to studies—which helps temporarily tighten and smooth the look of dimples. That instant boost is paired with cupuaçu butter (rich in fatty acids and polyphenols) and plant-based squalane, which deeply replenish and lock in moisture to help skin look plumper and more even overall.

Speaking of that luxe texture, you can thank a blend of nourishing oils (like coconut, açaí, and Brazil nut) plus humectants like glycerin and sodium hyaluronate, which all come together to create that cushioned, ultra-smooth finish. And while there’s definitely a time and place for fragrance-free, sometimes you just want something that smells ridiculously good—in this case, a warm, addictive mix of pistachio, jasmine, vanilla, and caramel.

More to know

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• Key ingredients: guaraná extract, cupuaçu butter, plant-based squalane, coconut oil, açaí oil, Brazil nut oil
• Fragrance-free: no

Best for Sensitive Skin: Biossance Squalane + Caffeine Toning Body Cream

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Biossance

Squalane + Caffeine Toning Body Cream

$29

Amazon

$29

Sephora

Why it's worth it: We’ve waxed poetic about retinol quite a bit, but if you have sensitive skin (and the thought of a stronger active makes you flinch a little), Biossance’s Squalane + Caffeine Toning Body Cream is a gentle alternative that still gets the job done. A 2023 Readers’ Choice Award winner, this formula “is fragrance-free and skips retinol and exfoliating ingredients” in favor of barrier-friendly ingredients that smooth and firm without the risk of irritation, says Dr. Haskin.

You’re getting caffeine sourced from green coffee beans, which temporarily helps tighten and smooth the appearance of cellulite, giving skin a more refined, toned appearance. Plus, niacinamide calms inflammation and evens tone. The texture is rich enough to feel nourishing, but thanks to squalane (a skin-mimicking lipid), it’s never heavy or greasy.

More to know

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• Key ingredients: squalane, caffeine, niacinamide
• Fragrance-free: yes

Best Drugstore: Nivea Skin Firming & Toning Gel-Cream with Q10

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Nivea

Skin Firming & Toning Gel-Cream with Q10

$15

Amazon

Why it's worth it: If you want a treatment that’s low-lift, budget-friendly, and genuinely easy to stick with, Nivea Skin Firming & Toning Gel-Cream with Q10 is one of those reliable go-tos. “It combines accessibility, tolerability, and ingredients that target the appearance of cellulite,” says Brendan Camp, MD, a double board-certified dermatologist based in the tri-state area. Those ingredients include coenzyme Q10 (a naturally occurring antioxidant that helps energize skin cells and defend against collagen breakdown) and L-carnitine (an amino acid derivative involved in fat metabolism) to improve the look of firmness over time.

You'll notice right away how user-friendly it is. The lightweight gel-cream absorbs quickly, making twice-daily application feel like no big deal—and consistency is where these formulas actually start to pay off. “In my experience, patients who use this diligently see smoother-looking skin over several weeks, especially when paired with massage during application,” says Dr. Camp. (Though any smoothing you get from the massage itself—while it can be effective—is only temporary.) It might not be the flashiest bottle on your vanity, but it’s the kind you’ll actually finish.

More to know

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• Key ingredients: coenzyme Q10, L-carnitine
• Fragrance-free: no

Best for Pregnancy: Palmer’s Cocoa Butter Formula Massage Lotion for Stretch Marks

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Palmer's

Cocoa Butter Formula Massage Lotion for Stretch Marks

$9 $8 (11% off)

Amazon

$8

Walmart

Why it's worth it: Palmer’s Cocoa Butter Formula Massage Lotion for Stretch Marks might not be marketed as a cellulite treatment, but it can still improve how skin looks in those areas, especially if dryness is making dimpling more noticeable. “During pregnancy, safety is paramount, so I recommend avoiding retinoids and focusing on hydrating, nourishing ingredients,” says Dr. Camp. “This product contains cocoa butter and vitamin E, which help maintain skin elasticity and support the skin as it stretches.” That boost in hydration and elasticity is essential: When skin is well-moisturized and more supple, it tends to look plumper, smoother, and more even overall, which can soften the appearance of cellulite.

That said, it’s not directly targeting the structural causes of cellulite (like fibrous bands or fat distribution), so think of it more as a skin-quality enhancer than a treatment. “While it won’t directly ‘treat’ cellulite, improved hydration and elasticity can reduce how prominent cellulite appears,” Dr. Camp adds.

More to know

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• Key ingredients: cocoa butter, shea butter, argan oil, vitamin E, almond oil, coconut oil
• Fragrance-free: yes

Frequently Asked Questions

Do cellulite creams actually work?

Yes, but with realistic expectations. “Topical treatments can improve the appearance of cellulite, but they don’t address the underlying structural cause,” says Dr. Wang. The best firming creams work by supporting overall skin texture and delivering visible (if temporary) cellulite reduction. What they can do effectively is “improve hydration, support the skin barrier, enhance elasticity, and reduce low-grade inflammation,” which helps skin look smoother, firmer, and more even overall. The key, he notes, is understanding that these products refine the appearance of cellulite rather than eliminate it.

What ingredients should I look for in a cellulite cream?

When you’re scanning the label, a few key ingredients come up again and again for their ability to improve how cellulite looks on skin:

• Caffeine
  The most studied topical for cellulite. As Dr. Haskin explains, it can “temporarily make skin appear slightly tighter through vasoconstriction and reducing fluid retention,” which helps minimize visible puffiness. It may also support lipolysis (fat breakdown), with some evidence suggesting it can improve that diffuse, rippled look.
• Retinol / Retinoids
  “These work more long-term by increasing dermal thickness and supporting collagen remodeling,” says Dr. Haskin. This means smoother, firmer-looking skin with less crepiness—so cellulite appears less pronounced.
• Peptides
  “Think of these as your firming support system,” says Dr. Haskin. They help signal collagen and elastin production, improving skin’s structure, elasticity, and overall bounce over time.
• Hydrators (like hyaluronic acid + glycerin)
  These don’t target cellulite directly, but they make a visible difference. “By boosting hydration in the top layers of skin, they create a plumper, smoother surface—a.k.a. a quick blur effect for dimpling,” says Dr. Haskin.

Are the results of cellulite creams permanent?

Short answer: No, they’re not permanent, and they won’t truly get rid of cellulite. “The effects are largely dependent on continued use because they do not change the underlying structural anatomy of cellulite,” says Dr. Camp. In other words, these creams can help smooth, moisturize, and temporarily tighten the look of dimpled skin, but once you stop using them, “the skin gradually returns to its baseline appearance,” he adds. That doesn’t mean they’re not worth it; it just means consistency is key. If you’re looking for longer-lasting results, Dr. Camp notes that in-office treatments are needed to address cellulite at a deeper, structural level.

Meet the experts

• Brendan Camp, MD, a double board-certified dermatologist and dermatopathologist at MDCS Dermatology: Medical Dermatology & Cosmetic Surgery in the tri-state area
• Kristina Collins, MD, a double board-certified dermatologist based in Austin
• Alessandra Haskin, MD, a board-certified dermatologist at Weiser Skin MD, based in New York City
• Maryam Safaee, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in Los Angeles
• James Wang, MD, a double board-certified dermatologist and founder of Metropolis Dermatology based in California

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 cellulite creams, 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 board-certified dermatologists. 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.

Source Photos: @amberjhnails, @nail.envy.lorna, @nail_glam.oSave StorySave this storySave StorySave this story

Mint has always had a way of feeling instantly refreshing, whether it’s mixed into a creamy scoop of ice cream or painted across newly filed nails. For summer 2026, that same crisp shade is emerging as one of the most popular nail polish colors, appearing in everything from sheer, jelly manis to decadent, crème nail art.

While the shade of the leafy, aromatic garnish is a deep, earthy green, the version seen on nails is much lighter—somewhere between aqua and sage. How we wear mint today is a far cry from the 2010s version. Instead of pairing it with loud, chunky necklaces and chevron nail art, we’re creating micro-French manicures and wearing it with simple blue-and-white linen dresses. Taylor Swift was seen with this look in mid-April.

The hue remains beloved by nail artists and their clients. “There was a period where I had to consciously make sure I was choosing nail colors other than mint because it was always my go-to,” says Stephanie Stone, an editorial nail artist and Sally Hansen ambassador. Part of mint’s appeal lies in its range: Some versions of the color skew so pale they’re nearly white, while others lean bold and vibrant. “Any complexion can pull off mint,” says Stone.

For those still holding onto spring’s demure pastels, Sarah Chue, a nail artist in Los Angeles, says mint offers the perfect transition into summer’s brighter palette. “It gives a soft, quiet luxury to the fingertips,” she adds. If you’re looking for a mani (or pedicure) that’s shimmery, neon, or offers a contrast to tanned skin, mint can check those boxes, too. Ahead, find inspiration for every aesthetic, plus the polishes experts recommend for wearing the shade this summer.

Micro French mint

Courtesy of @juicybeaauty

“A micro French is playful,” Betina Goldstein, a nail artist in Los Angeles, previously told Allure. While the look is inherently subtle, using mint polish gives your manicure a boost of energy, resulting in a summery, spirited manicure.

Light mint almond-shaped nails

Courtesy of @juicybeaauty

This opaque, extra-bright mint polish, worn with a breezy white shirt, is your new summer uniform. File your nails into an almond shape for added whimsy. Seriously, try to stop yourself from doing the princess wave to show off your nails.

Slanted French mint nails

Courtesy of @amberjhnails

A slanted French is already a modern take on the classic manicure—but adding mint to the mix adds even more freshness. Top it with a glassy topcoat, like ILNP Glass Candy or the Londontown Diamond Shine Topcoat, to make it more eye-catching.

Neon mint nails

Courtesy of @irasnailroom

When it comes to summer nails, our approach is simple: the brighter, the better. This vibrant manicure is made for poolside hangs and coastal strolls, best enjoyed with an ice cream cone in hand—mint chocolate chip, of course.

Mint French with 3D swirls

Courtesy of @nail_glam

The summer of 2026 is all about textured manicures, and this glossy mint French manicure with clear 3D ridges is a beautiful take on the trend.

“It can be a cool way to mimic nature on the nail,” says Natalia Mercedes, a nail artist in New York City, who loves incorporating clear gel rain-like droplets into her manicures. Rita Pinto, founder of the nail salon Vanity Projects, suggests adding a matte topcoat (like Zoya MatteVelvet Top Coat) over the base before applying your 3D embellishments so they pop more.

Mint speckled-egg nails

Courtesy of @polishwithrae

Speckled nails are typically reserved for Easter, but the design is cute year-round, especially when paired with this vivid shade of mint. A dark navy polish like Dior Vernis 902 Pied-de-Poule, splattered on with a nail brush, will create just enough contrast without overpowering the mint base. For a ready-made speckled polish, try ILNP Boutique Nail Polish in Mint Chip.

Neutral-toned mint nails

Courtesy of @samantharudge.beauty

Clean-girl nails don’t always have to be nude pink. This neat, glossy, square-shaped set is a polished way to wear the color. We recommend using Essie Gel Couture Polish in Zip Me Up, which has a silk-like finish. Manucurist Natural Nail Polish in Mint is another mellow take on the color that gives off a quiet luxury vibe.

Mint nails with French and gold star art

Courtesy of @sunnywilliams_nails + @suukkosan

Add a celestial glow to your mint mani with gold star decals and hand-painted sparkle, like those in the set above. The combination of bright gold and pale green gives this look a jovial yet elevated feel.

Medium almond-shaped mint nails

Courtesy of @thecolornook

This bright, pastel mint manicure proves just how elevated a single-color look can be. The creamy, opaque finish leans classic, while the elongated almond shape adds length—striking that sweet spot between delicate and statement-making.

Short, square mint nails

Courtesy of @nail.envy.lorna

If you ever thought short nails were boring, allow these mint-polished ones to convince you otherwise. This punchy shade looks beautiful on short, square nails with rounded edges.

Mint cat-eye nails

Courtesy of @karlasoriginailkolors

Add a bit of sparkle to your mint mani by opting for a shimmering polish like the Lavis Gel Polish in Pixie Dust. It comes with finely milled particles that give a glistening effect.

Shop Mint Nail Essentials

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Olive & June

Aced It

$12

Ulta Beauty

$12

Olive & June

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Essie

Zip Me Up

$12 $7 (42% off)

Amazon

Save to wishlistSave to wishlist

Manucurist

Mint

$14

Manucurist

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Londontown

Mint No Chip

$16

Amazon

$16

Londontown

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Sally Hansen

Take a Mint

$10 $7 (30% off)

Amazon

$10

Ulta Beauty

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Aprés

Glassea Eyed

$15

Beyond Polish

Discover more nail color inspo:

• 12 Pink Nail Ideas That Range From Demure to Extra-Bold
• The Spring Nail Colors of 2026 Will Soothe Your Nervous System
• Butter Yellow Is My New Neutral Nail Polish for Summer

Collage: Briana Rengifo; Source images: Courtesy of Allure editorsSave StorySave this storySave StorySave this story

Ever wonder what it’s like shopping with a beauty editor? Welcome to Counter Service, a series where we visit our favorite beauty boutiques IRL. We’re visiting the curated spaces and places that make shopping in person oh-so worth it—and you’re coming with. Up next, Sarah Felbin, Allure’s senior commerce editor, visited Ulta Beauty on the hunt for Mother’s Day gifts that her mom will love and use on the daily.

I’ve always been super close with my mom (think Lorelai and Rory from Gilmore Girls, but with less boy drama). She was my introduction to all things beauty, from helping me perfect my eyeliner before a dance competition to choosing the right mani-pedi color combination for my senior prom. And most lessons started the same way: with a trip to our local beauty store. In our case, that was Ulta.

My mom and I have spent hours roaming its hallowed beauty halls, tossing new launches into our bags to discuss in detail later. So, when I was at a loss for where to pick up a Mother’s Day gift she’d actually love, I decided to swing by my local store first—and I’m so glad I did.

The author with her mom

Sarah Felbin

Hoping I can find everything on my list.

Katie Gunderman

Stepping into the 86th Street location in New York City (past the rainbow lipstick mural) takes me right back to those childhood shopping sprees. You know the vibe: massive sales floor, bright lights (perfect for swatching—and you know we're testing everything), and seemingly endless, with rows of pristinely organized prestige beauty brands and drugstore favorites alike. As a beauty editor, this is my dream. I literally can’t wait to dive in—even the playlist, stacked with Beyoncé, ABBA, and Dua Lipa, gets me in the mood to do some digging.

Ready to shop ’til I drop!

Katie Gunderman

As I pace the aisles, browsing, swatching, and chatting with the store associates, I find some things I already can’t live without that I know Mom will love, and some new things I can’t wait to introduce her to. Almost without realizing it, I’ve filled my bag with a pile of presents ranging from skin-care devices to makeup to fragrance—and I’ve barely even made a dent in all of Ulta Beauty’s offerings. (There’s always her birthday…and Christmas, too.) Here's what my haul looked like.

Full bag = happy Mom.

Katie Gunderman

TheraFace Mask Glo

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Therabody

TheraFace Mask Glo

$380

Ulta Beauty

First up: An LED mask that’ll slot right into Mom’s beauty routine.

Katie Gunderman

After raising two kids and running a preschool for over 20 years, my mom has a little more time for self-care these days. To help her make the most of her slower schedule, I’m picking up the TheraFace Mask Glo. It’s a clinically tested LED mask with red, blue, and infrared settings that tackle uneven skin texture, tone, and breakouts—according to 12-week studies with daily use. I’m hoping she’ll enjoy relaxing with it on for a few minutes at the end of a long day with a book in her hand and pup Ace by her side.

Benefit Cosmetics Play Daze Airy Soft Matte Liquid Blush

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Benefit Cosmetics

Play Daze Airy Soft Matte Liquid Blush

$34

Ulta Beauty

My mom first introduced me to Benefit Cosmetics in middle school, when she bought me the Porefessional Pore Minimizing Primer and BadGal Bang Mascara to try—two formulas that still very much hold up, by the way. Since then, we’ve swapped hundreds of beauty recs, but we always come back to the brand for makeup that’s fun to use and easy to wear. I made a beeline for Benefit and tossed the Play Daze Airy Soft Matte Liquid Blush into my bag because I know she’ll love the flexible shade range, silky texture, and blurred finish.

It’s so hard to choose just one color…

Katie Gunderman

Testing shade Starlaa, Mom’s soon-to-be favorite.

Katie Gunderman

Maybelline Lash Sensational Body Washable Mascara

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Maybelline New York

Lash Sensational Body Washable Mascara

$14

Ulta Beauty

I’m a firm believer that drugstore mascaras can (and often do) outperform high-end ones. Maybelline’s Lash Sensational Body Washable Mascara is my latest favorite, with an hourglass-shaped wand that grabs every lash and a lengthening formula that adds more drama than some falsies I’ve tried. I immediately grabbed a tube for Mom to try (thankfully, Ulta was fully stocked with all three colors).

Tubes galore.

Katie Gunderman

You’re coming home with me.

Charlotte Tilbury Pillow Talk Long Lasting Blush Balm Sheer Lip Tint

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Charlotte Tilbury

Pillow Talk Long Lasting Blush Balm Sheer Lip Tint

$32

Ulta Beauty

Swipe and glow.

Katie Gunderman

Ever since the Hollywood Flawless Filter first went viral, Mom and I have been devoted Charlotte Tilbury fans. I’m so excited for her to try the new Pillow Talk Long Lasting Blush Balm Sheer Lip Tint, a hydrating balm that comes in six colors that shift into custom shades based on your pH. I’m always trying to get her to branch out from her usual matte mainstays, and I think if anyone can convert her, it’s Charlotte.

Tatcha The Dewy Skin Cream

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Tatcha

The Dewy Skin Cream

$93

Ulta Beauty

Mom has yet to meet a Tatcha product she didn’t like, and this rich (but still lightweight) moisturizer was basically made for her dry skin. The Dewy Skin Cream contains a hydrating trifecta of hyaluronic acid, squalane, and red algae, plus antioxidant-packed Japanese purple rice (which lends itself to the lovely lavender hue) to help block damaging free radicals that can cause dullness, uneven skin tone, and loss of firmness.

Even the packaging is pretty.

Katie Gunderman

My hands have never felt softer (or smoother).

Katie Gunderman

Prada Paradoxe

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Prada

Paradoxe

$180

Ulta Beauty

I recently put my mom onto Prada’s woody, spicy Infusion de Santal Chai—so, for Mother’s Day, I wanted to treat her to another fragrance from the same brand. Paradoxe immediately caught my eye, with its distinctive pink, triangular bottle and warm, floral notes of Neroli, amber, and musk. I know she’ll look forward to spritzing it every morning.

I could spot that pink box a mile away.

Katie Gunderman

Not your average floral.

Katie Gunderman

Nodpod

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Nodpod

Weighted Blanket For Your Eyes

$38

Ulta Beauty

Sweet dreams.

Katie Gunderman

Mom and I have been devoted Nodpod fans for years. This soothing, weighted sleep mask helps us both drift off quickly, when we’re usually toss-all-night types. The pink version—an Ulta exclusive—is the perfect replacement for her old, worn-out gray one.

I also couldn’t help do a little shopping for myself.

Katie Gunderman

It’s only fair, seeing as I found everything on my list in record time.

Katie Gunderman

Photos: Getty ImagesSave StorySave this storySave StorySave this story

Emma Grede, a British entrepreneur known for her work developing brands such as Skims, Good American, and Safely, has been catching flak lately. During an appearance on the She’s So Lucky podcast, she was asked why she never invested in Ami Colé, the makeup brand founded by Diarrha N'Diaye-Mbaye.

Her answer, “I don’t invest in first-time founders unless I think there’s something extraordinary about that founder and about that proposition. To me, I didn’t see that and I was like, it’s okay. It was going to come and go.” Yet she later hired N’Diaye-Mbaye, apparently seeing something extraordinary in this one-time founder.

So what has changed?

Speaking on her own podcast, Grede reiterated that she didn’t see long-term potential in Ami Colé, arguing that her later decision to hire N’Diaye-Mbaye at Skims was the better outcome. In her telling, the role offers access to the kind of infrastructure, mentorship, and resources that building a brand independently often can’t.

But it’s this positioning that has drawn the most criticism. Commentary circulating on social media has pointed to a broader pressure placed on Black women founders to be exceptional, with scrutiny that extends beyond their products to their perceived “fit” as business leaders. Grede went further still, suggesting that N’Diaye-Mbaye may have lacked the business acumen to start a company in the first place.

To be fair to Grede, not every investor is the right fit for every brand, and there is a version of this discussion where her comments are simply an honest account of her own decision-making process. If you think of Shark Tank, sometimes someone walks in with a product and none of the Sharks are feeling it, only for it to be on shelves a year later, hitting the very numbers everyone in that room said were unrealistic.

Sometimes you don’t invest because you didn’t connect with the brand, didn’t think it would go anywhere, or didn’t find the founder particularly compelling. Now, Grede’s assessment isn’t entirely wrong as Ami Colé did indeed close. But the excitement it generated and the space it occupied in beauty at the time, along with what its founder has gone on to achieve, makes the idea that it just came and went feel a little cavalier, even if it's technically true.

N’Diaye-Mbaye was clearly extraordinary enough to build a brand that became a cult favorite before she was out of her early 30’s. Grede couldn’t see that at the time which means she wasn’t the right investor, and she isn’t obligated to be the right investor for everyone. But to now imply, with the benefit of hindsight, that there was nothing extraordinary about Ami Colé, doesn’t seem fair.

Ami Colé was a no-makeup makeup brand built specifically by and for Black and Brown women. To talk through what went wrong, N’Diaye-Mbaye was invited onto Grede’s podcast and spoke with characteristic clarity about what she brought to the brand (which was a lot) and where her blind spots were. N’Diaye-Mbaye has said herself that she made mistakes along the way.

She was recruited directly by Glossier CEO Emily Weiss in 2018 and made the pivot from social media strategy at L’Oréal into product development and innovation, working on exactly the kind of minimalist, skin-first aesthetic that Ami Colé would go on to center for an audience Glossier was not then speaking to. Meaning, she started her own brand with both product knowledge and marketing instincts. This wasn’t a first-time founder with a dream and a mood board.

I know people who stockpiled the lip glosses when the closure was announced, it was that beloved. So it’s hard, in that context, to square Grede’s earlier dismissal with what the brand actually became in practice. Ami Colé closed but the demand it was serving didn’t disappear with it, nor did the founder’s insight, nor the customers who were buying the products. If anything, the response proved the appetite was real and the execution had landed.

The question of what went wrong is answered in N’Diaye-Mbaye’s own words. She describes a temperamental wave of investor enthusiasm, one that had been loud about equity and inclusivity in 2020 and considerably quieter about both by the time she needed it most. Essentially, the investment moment that helped launch Ami Colé wasn’t the same she was operating in four years later.

From what I hear in this conversation between N'Diaye-Mbaye and Grede, N'Diaye-Mbaye had the product, community, pedigree, vision, and even investors, but maybe not the operational infrastructure to execute at the level the business needed. It’s one of the most common reasons scaling startups fail—less about the product or the market, and more about the gap between what a founder can build and what it takes to sustain it at speed.

Pat McGrath is another recent example of a Black woman whose business has faced difficulty, where the products are loved, the community is real, the vision is sound, and the conversation still somehow circles back to what she did or didn't do, had or didn't have. Grede has built her career on understanding how access, investment, and the right infrastructure can make or break a brand, which is exactly what makes the way she explained this harder to sit with.

The irony is that the businesses Grede has been a part of are proof that you don't necessarily need traditional business acumen to build a successful company, but rather access to it.

What Ami Colé needed was an extraordinary investor to build alongside its extraordinary founder.

I'm not trying to be cheeky or take anything away from these women, but Khloé Kardashian didn't come from a traditional fashion or business background when she co-founded Good American with Grede, who serves as CEO. Grede has spoken about their model as deliberately pairing a strong product (the jeans) with leveraging “talent” to unlock the audience. In this way, Good American combines Kardashian’s reach and visibility with Grede’s operational experience to build a customer base and grow the business.

A similar structure is seen at Rhode, where Hailey Bieber co-founded the brand with Michael D. Ratner and Lauren Ratner, who have described their role as building the brand architecture and scaling the business around Bieber’s creative vision. Lauren Ratner has said that the brand was built by focusing on marketing, content, and community, which helped drive its growth and eventual $1 billion acquisition by e.l.f Beauty.

In both cases, a founder with cultural insight and influence was paired with experienced operators who knew how to build and scale a business, as well as strong and patient investment. Whether any of that was ever genuinely on the table for N'Diaye-Mbaye is another question altogether.

In implying Ami Colé was nothing extraordinary, Grede reinforces the expectation that Black women must be exceptional in ways others are not. It's hard for women to secure investment, and harder still for women of color. So when N'Diaye-Mbaye rode what she called a temperamental wave of post-2020 investor appetite, she was doing what you do when you have some of what you need, believe in what you’re building, and a window opens: You go for it.

The language we use can oversimplify something complex after the fact. N’Diaye-Mbaye has already spoken about what she learned from Ami Colé with clarity and generosity. Let’s just leave it there.

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

Seriously, can you ever have enough shampoos and conditioners? (There’s a reason they come in jumbo sizes.) The Ulta Buy More, Save More Sale couldn’t have come at a better time—we’re officially ditching the beanies and letting our hair out. The more you stock up, the more you save, which basically feels like permission to finally grab the good stuff (and backups, of course).

We rounded up our favorite duos across the board: ultra-hydrating picks for dry, brittle strands, curl-friendly formulas that keep texture defined (not frizzy), and color-safe shampoos and conditioners that help your shade last way longer than it has any right to. You’ll even spot a few Allure Best of Beauty Award winners in the mix, so you know they’ve been thoroughly vetted. Basically, if your shower lineup has been feeling a little less-than-stellar, consider this your sign to upgrade—and grab a backup while you’re at it.

Just don’t wait too long! Ulta’s Buy More, Save More sale ends May 10, 2025.

Our Top Picks from the Ulta Buy More, Save More Sale

Frizz FixPattern Hydration Shampoo and Medium Conditioner for CurliesJump to Product$22 $19 (14% off)

Ulta Beauty (Shampoo)

Thirst TrapCécred Hydrating Shampoo and ConditionerJump to Product$32 $24 (25% off)

Ulta Beauty (Shampoo)

Lavender DreamsOlaplex No. 4P Blonde Enhancer Toning Shampoo and No. 5P Blonde Enhancer Toning ConditionerJump to Product$34 $24 (29% off)

Ulta Beauty (Shampoo)

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

Best for Oily Hair: Isima Reset Clarifying Shampoo and Suavisima Hydrating Conditioner

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Isima

Reset Clarifying Shampoo and Suavisima Hydrating Conditioner

$32 $16 (50% off)

Ulta Beauty (Shampoo)

$32 $16 (50% off)

Ulta Beauty (Conditioner)

Allure senior commerce editor Sarah Felbin after using the Isima Reset Clarifying Shampoo

Sarah Felbin

Shakira’s hair-care line, Isima, takes its name from the Spanish suffix “-ísima”—meaning “very” or “extremely”—a fitting nod to how hard these formulas aim to work for “complicated” hair (think textured, porous, overprocessed, or perpetually oily). When our editors put the line to the test, we were impressed by how well it flexed across a surprisingly diverse range of hair types and concerns.

If you have oily-prone hair, for example, the Reset Clarifying Shampoo skips that stripped, squeaky-clean feel by pairing deeper-cleansing agents with scalp-balancing ingredients, so you get a true reboot without irritation. “I’ve always been an oily gal, but my scalp is a special situation—it’s highly sensitive (and prone to clogged pores), and my roots get so greasy that I need to wash my hair at least every other day,” says Sarah Felbin, senior commerce editor. “Translation: I’ve tried a lot of shampoos, and this is one I truly love.”

Follow with the Suavísima Hydrating Conditioner, which features lightweight, slip-boosting emollients like cupuaçu butter, sunflower seed oil, camellia oil, and passionfruit oil to soften and detangle without flattening an oily scalp—a balance that’s harder to nail than it sounds.

Best for Dry Hair: Pureology Hydrate Shampoo and Conditioner for Dry Hair

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Pureology

Hydrate Shampoo and Conditioner for Dry Hair

$38 $29 (24% off)

Ulta Beauty (Shampoo)

$38 $29 (24% off)

Ulta Beauty (Conditioner)

Allure beauty director Sarah Kinonen after using the Pureology Hydrate Shampoo and Conditioner for Dry Hair

Sarah Kinonen

Dry hair really has it out for us year-round—between cold weather, summer heat, chlorine, and constant blow-drying—but Pureology’s Hydrate Shampoo and Conditioner step in to bring it back to life without weighing it down. The shampoo relies on a blend of gentle, sulfate-free cleansers to lift away buildup while delivering hydration with glycerin and conditioning polymers, so hair feels clean but not stripped.

The conditioner, however, is where the real softness kicks in during the last few minutes of your shower: A blend of shea butter, jojoba butter, and sunflower oil smooths and seals the cuticle, while panthenol and amino acids help reinforce moisture and elasticity. It hits that just-right, Goldilocks-level balance of lightweight hydration.

Best for Itchy Scalp: Virtue Scalp Remedy Shampoo and Conditioner

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Virtue

Scalp Remedy Shampoo and Conditioner

$44

Ulta Beauty (Shampoo)

$44

Ulta Beauty (Conditioner)

Allure contributing commerce writer Christa Joanna Lee applying the Virtue Scalp Remedy Shampoo

Christa Joanna Lee

Your scalp has its own delicate ecosystem—and when it’s thrown off (think: one too many days of dry shampoo), flakes, excess oil, and irritation can show up fast. Virtue’s Scalp Remedy Shampoo and Conditioner both feature gentle, fragrance-free formulas that use salicylic acid and willow bark to dissolve buildup while keeping things calm and balanced. The brand’s proprietary Alpha Keratin 60ku supports stronger, healthier hair right at the root, while soothing botanicals like rosemary, green tea, and rice extract keep irritation in check.

“Virtue’s Scalp Remedy Shampoo—and the corresponding conditioner, which you actually apply directly to your scalp (a surprise, since I’ve always been trained to focus conditioner on mid-lengths)—definitely left my scalp calm and less irritated,” says contributing commerce writer Christa Joanna Lee.

Best for Frizz: Pattern Hydration Shampoo and Medium Conditioner for Curlies

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Pattern

Hydration Shampoo and Medium Conditioner for Curlies

$22 $19 (14% off)

Ulta Beauty (Shampoo)

$29 $19 (34% off)

Ulta Beauty (Conditioner)

Allure creative producer Sydney Malone using the Pattern Hydration Shampoo

Sydney Malone

Hydration can feel like a gamble, especially for textured hair: Won’t all that richness just leave strands flat, heavy, or coated? Founded by curl queen Tracee Ellis Ross, Pattern is all about giving curls, coils, and kinky textures the moisture they’ve always deserved—and the 2025 Best of Beauty-winning Hydration Shampoo proves it. The formula pairs a deeper-cleansing base with glycerin, honey, and nourishing oils like coconut, avocado, and argan to lift buildup without that stripped, dry feeling that can trigger frizz. Then there’s the Medium Conditioner, which features shea butter, castor oil, and panthenol to smooth the cuticle and lock in hydration, keeping curls soft and defined.

Best for Brittle Hair: Redken All Soft Shampoo and Conditioner

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Redken

All Soft Shampoo and Conditioner

$29 $19 (34% off)

Ulta Beauty (Shampoo)

$29 $19 (34% off)

Ulta Beauty (Conditioner)

Fresh out of the bottle, the luxe lather of Redken’s All Soft Shampoo basically has brittle strands saying “ahhhh.” The shampoo pairs classic cleansers with conditioning silicones and glycerin to smooth as it cleans, while aloe and amino acids help keep hair from feeling crunchy. Don’t forget the conditioner, where the real nourishment kicks in: argan oil, sodium PCA, and hydrolyzed soy protein replenish moisture, reinforce weakened strands, and improve elasticity—making hair less prone to snapping. This duo “softens and boosts shine without heaviness,” says Marla Haislip, a stylist based in Santee, California.

Best for Textured Hair: Cécred Hydrating Shampoo and Conditioner

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Cécred

Hydrating Shampoo and Conditioner

$32 $24 (25% off)

Ulta Beauty (Shampoo)

$32 $24 (25% off)

Ulta Beauty (Conditioner)

When it comes to Beyoncé’s hair care line, wherever the hair flip goes, we follow—and Cécred’s Hydrating Shampoo and Conditioner gets you a few steps closer to that glossy, healthy shine. The shampoo has gentle, sulfate-free cleansers paired with glycerin, hyaluronic acid, and a Lactobacillus ferment to cleanse without that stripped feeling, while a blend of oils (olive, moringa, and baobab) adds a touch of nourishment. “Once water is applied, the hydrating shampoo is next, and this stuff lathers…you get a lot of slip with this one, even though it's technically a cleansing step,” says Jessica Cruel, editor in chief. The complementary conditioner dials up the moisture with shea butter, murumuru butter, and amino acids to smooth and strengthen—leaving hair soft, bouncy, and ready for styling.

Best for Gray Hair: Olaplex No. 4P Blonde Enhancer Toning Shampoo and No. 5P Blonde Enhancer Toning Conditioner

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Olaplex

No. 4P Blonde Enhancer Toning Shampoo and No. 5P Blonde Enhancer Toning Conditioner

$34 $24 (29% off)

Ulta Beauty (Shampoo)

$34 $24 (29% off)

Ulta Beauty (Conditioner)

If you’re fully gray (or blonde) and your color is starting to skew brassy, Olaplex’s No. 4P Blonde Enhancer Toning Shampoo and No. 5P Conditioner are the duo that brings back the brightness. The shampoo uses highly concentrated violet pigments (which give it that signature purple hue) to neutralize yellow tones on contact. The gentle, coconut-oil surfactants make it “great for people with dry or coarse hair because it adds moisture while repairing bonds, keeping gray and silver tones bright,” says Haislip. Follow with the conditioner, which uses shea butter to add slip and softness, leaving hair shinier from root to tip.

Best for Damaged Hair: Bumble and Bumble Bond-Building Repair Shampoo and Conditioner

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Bumble and Bumble

Bond-Building Repair Shampoo and Conditioner

$38 $24 (37% off)

Ulta Beauty (Shampoo)

$38 $24 (37% off)

Ulta Beauty (Conditioner)

“Bond repair” has become one of those buzzy terms, but what does it actually do for damaged hair? Bumble and Bumble’s 2024 Best of Beauty-winning Bond-Building Repair Shampoo and Conditioner back it up with a formula that targets weakened strands at a structural level. The shampoo uses gentle cleansers and a honey bond-building complex to reinforce hair fibers while maintaining moisture, so you’re not trading repair for dryness. The conditioner layers in shea butter and coconut oil to smooth, soften, and seal the cuticle—leaving damaged hair stronger and less prone to breakage.

Best Fragrance-Free: Seen Shampoo and Conditioner, Fragrance Free

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SEEN

Shampoo and Conditioner Fragrance Free

$32 $21 (34% off)

Ulta Beauty (Shampoo)

$32 $21 (34% off)

Ulta Beauty (Conditioner)

If your scalp is easily irritated, Seen’s Fragrance-Free Shampoo and Conditioner are about as gentle—and thoughtfully formulated—as it gets. The shampoo relies on mild, sulfate-free cleansers and soothing ingredients like bisabolol and glycerin to cleanse without triggering dryness or sensitivity, while skipping fragrance entirely (a major win for reactive skin). It’s also accepted by the National Eczema Association, which means it’s been vetted to meet strict standards for products that minimize irritation and are safe for eczema-prone skin.

"Despite its gentle formula, the shampoo lathers up nicely to remove dirt and oil, so your scalp feels fresh and clean,” says Kseniya Kobets, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in New York City. The conditioner is also, of course, fragrance-free—and thanks to lightweight emollients and shea butter esters, it softens and smooths without ever feeling heavy.

Best for Color-Treated Hair: Biolage Color Last Shampoo and Conditioner for Color-Treated Hair

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Biolage

Color Last Shampoo and Conditioner for Color-Treated Hair

$26 $16 (38% off)

Ulta Beauty (Shampoo)

$26 $16 (38% off)

Ulta Beauty (Conditioner)

Whether you’re reaching for box dye or spending hours under salon lights, your color should make every minute (and dollar) worth it. The 2025 Best of Beauty Award-winning Biolage’s Color Last Shampoo and Conditioner are designed to help do just that, using a gentle cleansing base paired with conditioning agents to keep hair soft without stripping your shade. The shampoo lifts away buildup while maintaining vibrancy, and the conditioner follows up with glycerin, soybean oil, and cupuaçu butter to smooth the cuticle and lock in moisture (a.k.a. less fading, more shine). Together, they help keep color looking fresh, glossy, and way less washed out between appointments.

Frequently Asked Questions

Meet the experts

• Marla Haislip, a stylist at Thrive Beauty Bar based in Santee, California
• Kseniya Kobets, MD, a board-certified dermatologist and Director of Cosmetic Dermatology at Montefiore-Einstein Advanced Care, based in New York City

How we test and review products

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

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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.