Category: POWER

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There are so many everyday factors that can leave your hair feeling drier than straw—chlorine, hard water, cold weather, color treatments, and heated hair tools are just a few—but the best shampoos and conditioners for dry hair can soften even the crunchiest, brittle strands out there. After all, while there's a place and time for hydrating hair masks and nourishing hair oils, “fighting frizz starts in the shower,” says Nicolas Flores, a hairstylist based in Los Angeles.

The key to these moisturizing shampoos and conditioners is in their formulations, which gently cleanse hair of product buildup (yet another root cause of dry hair) while smoothing it with a blend of hydrators and conditioning agents you might be familiar with—do vitamin E and coconut oil ring a bell? They're not hard to find, either; even drugstore shampoos deliver. Below, we're talking all things dry hair, including hairstylist tips on minimizing dryness and editor-approved shampoos and conditioners to enhance texture and shine.

Our Top Shampoos and Conditioners for Dry Hair

• Best Overall: K18 Damage Shield pH Protective Shampoo and Conditioner, $39 each
• Best for Shine: Living Proof No Frizz Shampoo and Conditioner, $72
• Best for Damaged Hair: Wella Professionals Ultimate Repair Shampoo and Conditioner, $70
• Best for Curly Hair: Redken All Soft Mega Curls Shampoo and Conditioner, $58

Frequently Asked QuestionsAccordionItemContainerButtonLargeChevron

• What causes dry hair?
• How can I minimize dry hair?
• Meet the experts
• How we test and review products
• Our staff and testers

Best Overall: K18 Damage Shield pH Protective Shampoo and Conditioner

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K18

Damage Shield pH Protective Shampoo and Conditioner

$39

Amazon (Shampoo)

$39

Amazon (Conditioner)

$62

Sephora

Why it's worth it: Allure editors and pro hairstylists alike are fans of K18’s Damage Shield pH Protective Shampoo and Conditioner, which won a 2024 Best of Beauty Award. Los Angeles-based hairstylist Clayton Hawkins and New York City-based hair colorist Kimberly Ruszczyk call out the brand’s proprietary peptide, K18, which works at a molecular level to support bond maintenance and reduce protein loss, while leaving strands with a softer texture and more vibrant shine. “It strengthens and repairs dry, damaged hair from the inside out, leaving it healthier, smoother, and more manageable without weighing it down,” says Hawkins.

Allure social director Kassidy Silva before using the K18 Damage Shield pH Protective Shampoo and Conditioner

Kassidy Silva

Silva after using the K18 Damage Shield pH Protective Shampoo and Conditioner

Kassidy Silva

Tester feedback from social director Kassidy Silva

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“I use half a dozen hair products on a weekly basis; dry shampoo, hairspray, gel, you name it. To give my hair a reset, I use the K18 shampoo and conditioner once a week and like to keep the shampoo on for at least five minutes to really cleanse my scalp before moving on to the conditioner.” —Kassidy Silva, social director

More to know

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• Key shampoo ingredients: K18 (peptide), plant-derived surfactants (sodium C14-16 olefin sulfonate, cocamidopropyl betaine, sodium methyl 2-sulfolaurate, sodium lauryl sulfoacetate)
• Key conditioner ingredients: K18, ceramides, polysaccharide
• Fragrance-free: no
• Sulfate-free: yes

Best for Fine Hair: Nécessaire The Moisture Shampoo and Conditioner

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Nécessaire

The Hair Moisture Duo

$64

Nécessaire

Why it's worth it: Necessaire’s The Moisture Shampoo and Conditioner duo gives wavy hair the moisture it craves without the heaviness it doesn't, thanks to the brand's proprietary Botanical Silk Complex—a plant-derived alternative to synthetic silicones. Plus, there’s nourishing argan oil, extract, and water for softness, shine, and smoothness that won't leave waves looking limp. You'll also find five types of ceramides to strengthen hair fibers and support the scalp barrier, making this an especially great pick for hair that's been put through the wringer recently by sun, chlorine, and salt water. The finishing touch: Arganier, a warm, skin-like fragrance with notes of white musk, ambrette, vanilla, and oak that lingers subtly in the hair.

Allure contributing commerce editor Deanna Pai before using the Nécessaire The Moisture Shampoo and Conditioner

Deanna Pai

Pai after using the Nécessaire The Moisture Shampoo and Conditioner

Deanna Pai

Tester feedback from contributing commerce editor Deanna Pai

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“It can be tough to find a moisturizing shampoo and conditioner that doesn't flatten my fine hair, which can land anywhere from 2B to 3A depending on the day and how they air-dry. But Nécessaire pulled it off with this duo. I love that a little goes a long way, and the shampoo lathers nicely despite the lack of sulfates. The conditioner has made a difference in my flyaways—a big deal, since I'm working with regrowth following postpartum hair loss right now—and overall frizz. I especially love the new scent, which leans cozy, warm, and velvety.” —Deanna Pai, contributing commerce editor

More to know

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• Key shampoo and conditioner ingredients: Botanical Silk Complex (plant-derived silicone alternative), argan oil, argan extract, argan water, five essential ceramides
• Fragrance-free: no
• Sulfate-free: yes

Best for Damaged Hair: Wella Professionals Ultimate Repair Shampoo and Conditioner

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Wella Professionals

Ultimate Repair Shampoo and Conditioner

$70

Amazon

$35

Ulta Beauty (Shampoo)

$35

Ulta Beauty (Conditioner)

Why it's worth it: Do split ends, breakage, and rough texture ring any bells? If your hair is showing the telltale signs of damage, Wella Professionals' Ultimate Repair Shampoo and Conditioner are designed to counteract some of that wear and tear. The duo combines AHA (malic acid) to strengthen weakened hair with omega-9 and squalane to replenish the hair's protective lipid layer and smooth the cuticle. The shampoo—which is "light and foamy," according to Stanimir Hristov, a hairstylist based in Putney, London—also features the brand’s Metal Purifier technology to remove metal particles that can build up from hard water and contribute to dullness and damage over time. Follow with the conditioner, which leaves brittle hair feeling softer and silkier while "creating a barrier so that hair is protected from environmental stressors," says Hristov, who especially likes its rich, creamy texture.

Allure commerce editor Sarah Han before using the Wella Professionals Ultimate Repair Shampoo and Conditioner

Sarah Han

Han after using the Wella Professionals Ultimate Repair Shampoo and Conditioner

Sarah Han

Tester feedback from commerce editor Sarah Han

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“I'm always on the lookout for shampoos and conditioners that intensely hydrate my dry, brittle, and partially color-treated hair without stripping too much of said color—emphasis on the last part! So I was pleasantly surprised when my pale pink stayed intact. (I have a color-depositing shampoo that I use occasionally, but I'm trying to rely on it less.) This Wella duo initially stood out because of its AHAs, which I suspected would be a great clarifying treatment for my scalp, especially as someone who sometimes only washes her hair once a week. (Time flies, ok!) The conditioner also has AHAs, which help repair strands from within the shaft—I always use a leave-in conditioner or overnight mask post-shower, so the exfoliation helps the leave-in absorb better. My hair feels extra soft—softer than it does with other shampoos and conditioners, or even hair masks, I swear—the next morning, so consider me impressed. Thank you, AHAs!” —Sarah Han, commerce editor

More to know

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• Key shampoo ingredients: AHA (malic acid), omega-9 (oleic acid), Metal Purifier technology, panthenol (pro-vitamin B5), squalane
• Key conditioner ingredients: AHA (malic acid), omega-9 (oleic acid), squalane
• Fragrance-free: no
• Sulfate-free: no

Best for Curly Hair: Redken All Soft Mega Curls Shampoo and Conditioner

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Redken

All Soft Mega Curls Shampoo and Conditioner

$58

Amazon

$29

Ulta Beauty (Shampoo)

$29

Ulta Beauty (Conditioner)

Why it's worth it: Some products that promise intense moisture leave curls limp and heavy, but Redken's All Soft Mega Curls Shampoo and Conditioner achieves a better balance. The sulfate- and silicone-free shampoo gently cleanses while restoring softness with glycerin and aloe vera, and salicylic acid lifts away scalp buildup without stripping moisture. The creamy conditioner takes it from there, pairing Inca Inchi oil to replenish dry strands with hydrolyzed soy protein to strengthen the hair fiber, while conditioning agents smooth the cuticle and make detangling a breeze. "The conditioner is so thick and luxurious that your curls will drink it up even after one use," says Murphy.

Commerce editorial assistant Hailey Roy before using the Redken All Soft Mega Curls Shampoo and Conditione

Hailey Roy

Roy after using the Redken All Soft Mega Curls Shampoo and Conditione

Hailey Roy

Tester feedback from commerce editorial assistant Hailey Roy

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“With just one wash day a week and 3C curls that usually end up in a bun by day two, my hair is basically knot central by the time wash day rolls around. Thankfully, this conditioner made detangling those stubborn knots so much easier. Trust me, the detangling process is easily the most stressful part of my routine. My hair also sheds quite a bit, so a buttery-soft conditioner that melts through tangles without excessive tugging feels like a gift. That buttery formula carried through after rinsing, too, leaving my hair noticeably softer. Together, the shampoo and conditioner brought my curls back to life (or at least as much as they can before I add my styling products) without weighing them down. I'll take bouncy, voluminous curls over flat, overly defined ones any day.” —Hailey Roy, commerce editorial assistant

More to know

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• Key shampoo ingredients: glycerin, aloe vera, salicylic acid
• Key conditioner ingredients: Inca Inchi oil, hydrolyzed soy protein, glycerin, aloe vera, conditioning polymers
• Fragrance-free: no
• Sulfate-free: yes

Best for Shine: Living Proof No Frizz Shampoo and Conditioner

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Living Proof

No Frizz Shampoo and Conditioner

$72

Amazon

$36

Ulta Beauty (Shampoo)

$36

Ulta Beauty (Conditioner)

Why it's worth it: There are approximately one million reasons your hair might be frizzy. Humidity that makes thirsty strands swell, bleach and heat tools that rough up the cuticle, natural oils that don’t make it down curly hair, and even everyday friction from your pillowcase all play a role. Living Proof's No Frizz Shampoo and Conditioner tackle frizz from every angle, no matter what's causing it. Both the shampoo and moisturizing conditioner feature the brand's proprietary Sili-Clone HairTech, which creates a lightweight protective shield around each strand to repel humidity, reduce friction, and keep hair smoother, sleeker, and less prone to frizz. And, even without sulfates, "the shampoo has the most incredible lather, breaking down any scalp buildup you may have, too," says Taylor Murphy, a hairstylist based in Raleigh, North Carolina.

Contributing commerce writer Christa Lee before using the Living Proof No Frizz Shampoo and Conditioner

Christa Joanna Lee

Lee after using the Living Proof No Frizz Shampoo and Conditioner

Christa Joanna Lee

Tester feedback from contributing commerce writer Christa Joanna Lee

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“For context, my hair is dry, reaches more than halfway down my back, and I only get it cut once or twice a year—no routine trims here—so crunchy ends and the occasional split end are just part of the package, along with a flaky scalp. I would've never guessed the shampoo was sulfate-free. The lather is rich and bubbly, leaving my extra-long hair feeling clean without that squeaky, stripped feeling. The conditioner strikes that perfect middle ground: thick enough to revive my parched ends without feeling like a heavy hair mask, but lightweight enough that it doesn’t feel heavy and coated. After using the duo, my lengths felt smoother, softer, and de-puffed, even when I air-dry. If I could only pack one shampoo and conditioner for a frizz-inducing desert island, this would be the pair I'd bring.” —Christa Joanna Lee, contributing commerce writer

More to know

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• Key shampoo ingredients: Sili-Clone HairTech, jojoba esters, sugar-derived humectants, sunflower derivatives
• Key conditioner ingredients: Sili-Clone HairTech, jojoba esters, behentrimonium chloride, hydrolyzed sodium PCA
• Fragrance-free: no
• Sulfate-free: yes

Best for Wavy Hair: Kérastase Gloss Absolu Shampoo and Conditioner

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Kérastase

Gloss Absolu Shampoo and Conditioner

$89

Amazon

Why it's worth it: Wavy (but not curly) hair doesn't always need less moisture—it just needs lighter moisture. Kérastase's Gloss Absolu Shampoo and Conditioner delivers hydration minus the weight that can zap body and bounce. The shampoo combines hyaluronic acid to draw moisture into the hair with glycolic acid to “smooth the cuticle for a silkier feel and reflective shine,” says Flores. Wild rose oil, rich in vitamins A, C, and E, adds softness and nourishment, while the luxe lather thoroughly cleanses the scalp. "This shampoo will bring your hair back to life in just a few washes without adding extra weight to fine, fragile hair," says Murphy. The silky conditioner follows up with moisturizing emollients that detangle and smooth, leaving fine hair “softer, shinier, and more manageable,” adds Flores.

Allure senior staff writer Elizabeth Gulino before using the Kérastase Gloss Absolu Shampoo and Conditioner

Elizabeth Gulino

Gulino after applying the Kérastase Gloss Absolu Shampoo and Conditioner

Elizabeth Gulino

Tester feedback from senior staff writer Elizabeth Gulino

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“I would like to personally thank whoever formulated Kérastase's Gloss Absolu line because, wow, did it actually help with my frizz and dryness. The first time I used both the shampoo and conditioner was on a Friday before heading out to dinner with friends—usually, when I air-dry my wavy hair, I'll add a few curls with a curling iron to try to tame frizz with heat. But after using Kérastase's Gloss Absolu Shampoo and Conditioner, I didn't even need to plug in any hot tools; my hair was good to go as-is. The citrus-y floral scent of the products is a major plus, too, and made my shower smell like a spa. I have a feeling I'll go through these products fairly quickly.” —Elizabeth Gulino, senior staff writer

More to know

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• Key shampoo and conditioner ingredients: hyaluronic acid, glycolic acid, wild rose oil
• Fragrance-free: no
• Sulfate-free: no

Best Clarifying: Medicube Rosemary PDRN Shampoo and Conditioner

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Medicube

Rosemary PDRN Shampoo and Conditioner

$48 $43 (10% off)

Amazon

Why it's worth it: If your scalp feels oily by day two but your lengths still somehow end up dry, Medicube's Rosemary PDRN Shampoo and Conditioner are designed to tackle both concerns at once. The shampoo takes a clarifying—but not overly drying—approach with salicylic acid to dissolve buildup, plus niacinamide, panthenol, and glycerin to keep the scalp balanced and the hair hydrated. The conditioner follows with a hefty dose of moisture from multiple forms of hyaluronic acid and hydrolyzed proteins to soften dry strands, while peppermint, tea tree, and rosemary lend the duo its fresh, tingly feel.

The headline ingredient in both shampoo and conditioner is plant-derived PDRN (polydeoxyribonucleotide), sourced from botanicals rather than traditional salmon DNA. In hair care, it's marketed as a way to support a healthier scalp environment and reinforce weak strands, creating the ideal conditions for stronger, fuller-looking. While those claims are intriguing, the science is still early and inconclusive. (Most research on PDRN has focused on injectable skin treatments or cell studies—not on topical shampoos and conditioners—so it's difficult to know how much of the duo's performance can be attributed to the PDRN itself.) Even if the jury is still out on PDRN, though, this formula stands on its own as a refreshing, scalp-first duo that deeply cleanses without leaving dry hair feeling parched.

Lee before applying the Medicube Rosemary PDRN Shampoo and Conditioner

Christa Joanna Lee

Lee after applying the Medicube Rosemary PDRN Shampoo and Conditioner

Christa Joanna Lee

Tester feedback from Lee

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“So the first thing you'll notice is the invigorating rosemary, peppermint, and tea tree scent. It gives your scalp that satisfying tingly feeling, though if you're sensitive around the eyes, I'd recommend tilting your head back while rinsing since the cooling sensation can get a little intense as it runs down your face. The shampoo works into a rich, bubbly lather and leaves my hair feeling genuinely clean yet not stripped—I’ve had zero issues using this as a daily shampoo. The conditioner is lightweight but has a slick enough texture to make detangling effortless—no greasiness in sight. The brand doesn't disclose exactly what's inside the tiny green capsules suspended throughout both formulas, but they burst instantly as you massage them in, adding a fun sensory touch that K-beauty is known for.” —Lee, contributing commerce writer

More to know

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• Key shampoo ingredients: plant-derived PDRN, salicylic acid, niacinamide, panthenol, glycerin, caffeine, multiple forms of hyaluronic acid
• Key conditioner ingredients: plant-derived PDRN, hyaluronic acid, panthenol, niacinamide, conditioning agents, hydrolyzed pea protein, biotin
• Fragrance-free: no
• Sulfate-free: yes

Best for Flaky Scalps: CosRx Peptide 132 Hair Bonding Shampoo and Hair Bonding Treatment

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Cosrx

Peptide 132 Hair Bonding Shampoo and Hair Bonding Treatment

$32 $30 (6% off)

Amazon

Why it's worth it: Whether you’ve been dealing with flakes forever or just pushed wash day one too many times (we’ve all been there), CosRx’s Peptide 132 Hair Bonding Shampoo and Hair Bonding Treatment (this acts like a conditioner and hair treatment in one) are the ultimate reset for your scalp and strands. Packed with strengthening peptides, this power duo repairs damage, melts away buildup, and leaves hair feeling silky and weightless. The pH-balanced formulas also soothe and hydrate your scalp with a calming blend of niacinamide and panthenol, so itchiness and irritation are officially canceled. The result? Clean, soft, ridiculously refreshed hair that feels brand new, sans any itchiness or irritation.

Han before using the CosRx Peptide 132 Hair Bonding Shampoo and Conditioner

Sarah Han

Han after using the CosRx Peptide 132 Hair Bonding Shampoo and Conditioner

Sarah Han

Tester feedback from Han

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"I gave my initial samples to our senior commerce director, Shanna Shipin, and she ended up loving them—so, of course, I had to give them a real shot. The Peptide 132 Ultra Perfect Hair Bonding Shampoo deep-cleansed my scalp without being as harsh as other ‘typical’ clarifying shampoos, and left it feeling really gosh-darn soothed, rather than stripped. It was the ultimate test, as my scalp gets greasy pretty quickly and I hadn't washed my hair in over a week, so I think the zinc PCA did a great job minimizing sebum and irritation." —Sarah Han, commerce editor

More to know

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• Key shampoo ingredients: peptides, zinc PCA, caffeine, niacinamide, panthenol
• Key conditioner ingredients: peptides, collagen, amino acids, biotin, niacinamide
• Scent: light, clean, floral
• Sulfate-free: yes

Best for Thick Hair: Squigs Gooseberry Delight Hydrating Shampoo and Conditioner

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Squigs

Gooseberry Delight Hydrating Shampoo and Conditioner

$56 $50 (11% off)

Amazon

Why it's worth it: A 2025 Best of Beauty Award-winning duo, the Squigs Gooseberry Delight Hydrating Shampoo and Conditioner deliver serious moisture à la the brand’s ShineShield Complex, which features a blend of vitamin C-rich amla and moringa oils as well as strengthening red algae extract. The shampoo uses gentle, coconut-derived surfactants to cleanse (no sulfates here), so hair feels clean, not stripped. Next, the conditioner offers lightweight hydration from the aforementioned complex, smoothing each strand without weighing it down or leaving a greasy residue. The payoff? Hair that stays silky, detangled, and glossy for days—think full, bouncy, blowout-level shine, no salon visit required.

Allure senior beauty editor Jesa Marie Calaor before using the Squigs Gooseberry Delight Hydrating Shampoo and Conditioner Set

Jesa Marie Calaor

Calaor after using the Squigs Gooseberry Delight Hydrating Shampoo and Conditioner Set

Jesa Marie Calaor

Tester feedback from senior beauty editor Jesa Marie Calaor

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“Between frequent heat-styling and the harsh temperatures of a New York City winter, my hair has been feeling crispy and fragile at the ends. A squeeze of each of these bottles helps restore softness and bounce. The shampoo is emollient, creating a rich lather as I work it from my scalp to my ends. The conditioner is thick yet easy to distribute through my extra-long strands. And I love the scent, which is subtly citrusy and bright.” —Jesa Marie Calaor, senior beauty editor

More to know

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• Key shampoo ingredients: amla extract, aloe extract, moringa oil, red algae extract, neem oil, tulsi extract
• Key conditioner ingredients: amla extract, aloe extract, moringa oil, red algae extract, neem oil, tulsi extract, kokum butter
• Scent: fresh, natural

Frequently Asked Questions

What causes dry hair?

Dry hair is caused by a lack of moisture, which can be attributed to a long laundry list of factors, says Hawkins. Our delicate strands are exposed to a lot, including harsh chemical treatments and environmental stressors like cold weather and dry heat inside your home or office, according to Ruszczyk. "Frequent washing or using products that strip moisture can deplete the scalp's natural oils," adds Jerome Lordet, a hairstylist based in New York City. According to all three experts, your hairstyling tools can also cause dryness. "Heat-styling tools, like flatirons and blow-dryers, can damage the hair cuticle, leading to moisture loss," says Hawkins.

How can I minimize dry hair?

Both Lordet and Hawkins agree that incorporating hair treatments and products with moisture-replenishing ingredients is key to enhancing the look and feel of your hair. "Look for ingredients that hydrate and restore moisture balance like argan oil, coconut oil, aloe vera, glycerin, panthenol, and honey to help restore moisture, reduce frizz, and keep hair looking healthy and shiny," says Lordet. Hawkins is also a fan of shea butter, which he calls "incredibly moisturizing and helps to smooth frizzy, brittle hair."

Meet the experts

• Nicolas Flores, a hairstylist and co-founder of Flore Los Angeles based in Los Angeles
• Clayton Hawkins, a hairstylist based in Los Angeles
• Stanimir Hristov, a hairstylist and founder of Your Hairdresser based in Putney, London
• Jerome Lordet, a hairstylist based in New York City
• Taylor Murphy, a hairstylist based in Raleigh, North Carolina
• Kimberly Ruszczyk, a colorist based in New York City

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 shampoos and conditioners for dry hair, we enlisted the help of multiple editors, writers, contributors, hairstylists, and colorists. Testers considered performance across four primary categories: efficacy, texture and experience, fragrance, and packaging. For more on what's involved in our reporting, check out our complete reviews process and methodology page.

Our staff and testers

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

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

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TL;DR:

• What it is: A volumizing and lengthening mascara
• What it does: Gives lashes a lengthier look on life
• Who it’s for: Anyone in the market for a new mascara that removes without much mess

No matter how tired I am at the end of the day—whether it’s a long day at work, an extra-long dinner with friends, or getting in late from a red-eye—I always take off my makeup. It’s one of those cardinal beauty rules I’ll never break.

For the longest time, I accepted that this meant ending every day the same way: painstakingly wiping and swiping off every last bit of makeup, with mascara taking the longest.

That’s not so true these days, after I discovered The Comeback Mascara from Athr Beauty. This mascara, made with nourishing acai and sunflower seed oils, lengthens and plumps up my stubby lashes in just two coats, without mess—during both the application and removal processes.

To apply, I like to wiggle the wand at the base of my lashes to make sure each individual lash is grabbed and coated in the inky formula. Then I do it again, making sure each lash has at least two layers of product.

And at the end of the day, when it comes time to take it all off, all it takes is a little warm water and light rubbing. Not too bad!

The Comeback Mascara is proof that some of the best mascaras aren’t just ones you love wearing—they’re also the ones you don’t dread taking off.

Athr Beauty The Comeback Mascara is in the August Allure Beauty Box.

GET THE BOX

Athr Beauty The Comeback Mascara

$28 at Athr Beauty$28 at Athr Beauty

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Megan Thee Stallion is ready for Act III. The rapper has been teasing her forthcoming album and the return of her alter ego Tina Snow, but before that drops, she popped by former First Lady Michelle Obama's podcast—and thankfully IMO isn't an audio-only podcast, because Megan's towering French roll updo simply must be seen.

Megan joined Obama and her brother Craig Robinson on IMO for a wide-ranging conversation about her Texas childhood, dealing with loss, grief, and pain, curating your TikTok algorithm, her role in Moulin Rouge!, and what to expect from Act III. For the interview, the Hot Girl Coach wore her hair in a sculpted blonde French roll, styled by her hairstylist and BFF Kellon Deryck. A French roll is a sibling to the French twist, where hair is wrapped and twisted vertically up the back of the head, then pinned in place. The rest of the hair is then gathered into a small, pastry-like bun at the top of the head, with tendrils typically left out to frame the face or brush over one eye. The French roll had a major moment in the ’90s, but it's been making a comeback on red carpets over the past few years, and we know Megan loves a good updo—especially one with throwback vibes.

For her interview, Megan opted for a dimensional, cool-toned champagne blonde with an ash blonde base, a subtle departure from the a warmer honey tones and icy platinum colors she often wears. Blonde may also be a key hair color for the Act III album and its accompanying era, as the teaser images Megan shared show her in a platinum blonde bob. ("Tina is grown now," Megan teased of her alter ego's return. “She has been through lots of life since you heard her last.”)

During their chat, Megan touched on identity and remaining true to yourself both in the music industry and in a world where social media wants to tell you who you are. “I've always been really expressive. I've always known exactly what I wanted. Any situation I walked into, I might not have had all of the knowledge that I have now, but I definitely will put my foot down about who I was, what I wanted to look like, who I want to be, what my message is," she shared. "I didn't walk into any situation where anybody had to build the person I was. I already came here Megan Thee Stallion.”

Watch Megan's interview below:

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Nothing is as refreshing as splashing on one of the best citrus perfumes on a hot, sticky summer day. The crisp, zingy burst of citrus feels like an instant reset for your senses: energizing, invigorating, and enlivening. On the flip side, wearing a citrus scent in the depths of winter is a reminder of sunnier days to come and can be just the optimistic boost you need when you’re deep in the doldrums.

TL;DR: If you’re looking for a transportive, refreshing orange scent, we love Tom Ford's Taormina Orange Eau de Parfum. For something unique, with notes of mandarin, rose, and leather, try Tory Burch’s Sublime Eau de Parfum. And if you’re craving a spicy, cozy citrus fragrance, you’ll be obsessed with By Rosie Jane’s cardamom-infused Remi Eau de Parfum.

Our Top Citrus Perfumes

• Best Orange: Tom Ford Taormina Orange Eau de Parfum, $195
• Best Grapefruit: Henry Rose Windows Down Eau de Parfum, $120
• Best Lemon: Granado Bossa Eau de Toilette, $95
• Best Gourmand Citrus: La Collection Privée Christian Dior Paradise Eau de Parfum, $350
• Best Earthy Citrus: Tory Burch Sublime Eau de Parfum, $155
• Best Spicy Citrus: By Rosie Jane Remi Eau de Parfum, $86

The best citrus perfumes often feature notes like mandarin, orange, lemon, lime, grapefruit, and bergamot as their “hero” notes, so to speak, but it’s very common to find citrus notes in all kinds of perfumes, from florals to gourmands. Bergamot, in particular, is a popular way for perfumers to add lift and brightness to the opening notes of a fragrance, and neroli, which is derived from the flowers of the bitter orange tree, is a gentler, sweeter floral note.

Frequently Asked QuestionsAccordionItemContainerButtonLargeChevron

• What is the difference between citrus and fruity fragrances?
• Why do citrus scents typically fade faster than other fragrances?
• How would you recommend making a citrus scent last longer?
• Meet the experts
• How we test and review products
• Our staff and testers

We believe that everyone should have at least one citrus scent in their perfume wardrobe; they're so varied (and so much fun!) that their sparkling, spirited personality becomes almost addictive to wear. And what better time to round them all up than at the peak of summertime? Ahead, find an orange, lemon, grapefruit, or bergamot perfume that sparks joy for you.

Best Orange: Tom Ford Taormina Orange Eau de Parfum

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Tom Ford

Taormina Orange Eau de Parfum

$195

Nordstrom

$202

Sephora

$202

Bluemercury

Allure content director Sophia Panych applying the Tom Ford Taormina Orange Eau de Parfum

Sophia Panych

Why we love it: Orange scents are just as refreshing and sweet as a glass of freshly squeezed juice, and Tom Ford’s version of orange is unsurprisingly chic and sophisticated. Taormina Orange, which was inspired by the sweeping views of a Sicilian summer near the blood orange groves, opens with tart blood orange and mandarin notes, with spicy cardamom and earthy patchouli and oakmoss at the base to ground you in the (theoretical) scenic setting.

Tester feedback from content director Sophia Panych

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“Tom Ford Taormina Orange is an unapologetically citrus fragrance—it leans into the brightest, most tart citrus ingredients like blood orange, lime, green mandarin, and bitter orange—and doesn’t try to soften the sharpness of those notes. What the woody-mossy base does so well is add depth, making it more interesting and complex (and longer-lasting) than many options in this category. Throughout this summer’s heatwaves, it’s the fragrance I've been gravitating towards the most because a few spritzes leave me feeling fresh, pretty, and mentally on a beach in Sicily versus my sweaty underground commute.” —Sophia Panych, content director

More to know

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• Key notes: blood orange, cardamom oil, orange flower absolute, orange bigarade oil, patchouli oil, oakmoss absolute
• Sizes: 0.3 oz, 1 oz, 1.7 oz

Best Lemon: Granado Bossa Eau de Toilette

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Granado

Bossa Eau de Toilette

$95

Nordstrom

Allure contributor Kara Nesvig applying the Granado Bossa Eau de Toilette

Kara Nesvig

Why we love it: Lemon is a unique citrus note because it plays equally well with sweet scents as it does with earthy, spicy, or floral fragrances; if you’re a lemon dessert fan, you know exactly what I mean. But Granado’s Bossa is definitely more on the light and fresh side of lemon—and that’s exactly what makes it so special. The eau de toilette is crisp and easy to spritz throughout the day thanks to a blend of citrus, solar, and oceanic notes that make you feel like you’re soaking up the sun in Brazil, cocktail in hand.

Tester feedback from contributor Kara Nesvig

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“My husband and I are big fans of Granado’s retro-chic packaging and evocative fragrances, and Bossa is definitely one of my go-tos during the dog days of summer. The lemon top notes mingle playfully with mandarin and petitgrain, and marine and tiare notes add a beachy warmth to the base. Since it’s an EDT, you can’t really go overboard with it, which is part of its sunny, breezy charm. I’m already looking forward to wearing this one in the middle of a Minnesota winter.” —Kara Nesvig, contributor

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• Key notes: lemon, mandarin orange, petitgrain, marine, tiare, musk
• Sizes: 3.4 oz

Best Gourmand Citrus: La Collection Privée Christian Dior Paradise Eau de Parfum

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Dior

La Collection Privée Christian Dior Paradise Eau de Parfum

$350

Dior

Allure senior commerce director Shanna Shipin applying the La Collection Privée Christian Dior Paradise Eau de Parfum

Shanna Shipin

Why we love it: Just like how citrus notes elevate a cake or pastry, they do the same for a gourmand fragrance. Exhibit A: Dior’s Paradise, a woody gourmand that pairs juicy, cheery mandarin with almond and tonka notes. The scent was inspired by Monsieur Dior’s gardens in the south of France and, despite its gourmand profile, captures a unique, outdoorsy freshness. This sweet balance is exactly why we think even people who might not typically be into citruses will dig this one.

Tester feedback from senior commerce director Shanna Shipin

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“Citrus runs in my blood—at least I like to think so (my mom ate lemons and oranges daily when she was pregnant with me, and I came out with an insatiable appetite for all things citrus)—so this feels a bit like a twin flame fragrance for me. It comes on strong with all sorts of citrus notes (mandarin, lime, bergamot), then you get the warmth from almond and maybe some vanilla. This fragrance also has some notable woody threads, which give it an air of mystery rather than a typical gourmand scent, and make it a good unisex option. The combination is equal parts sweet and smooth, like a luxurious and layered summertime cocktail that you'd feel very cool ordering at the bar. I'm so in love with this fragrance that it's one I want to hoard even from myself! Good thing: It lasts so incredibly long on my skin—I'm talking dawn to dusk—which helps justify the price tag.” —Shanna Shipin, senior commerce director

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• Key notes: mandarin, orange, lime, bitter almond, tonka bean, woody notes
• Sizes: 1.7 oz, 3.4 oz. 6.8 oz

Best Earthy Citrus: Tory Burch Sublime Eau de Parfum

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Tory Burch

Sublime Eau de Parfum

$155

Nordstrom

$155

Ulta Beauty

Allure social director Kassidy Silva with the Tory Burch Sublime Eau de Parfum

Kassidy Silva

Why we love it: Tory Burch’s fragrances are the ultimate complement to her unique, preppy-with-a-twist designs, and Sublime is the perfect example. This 2025 Best of Beauty Award winner is an earthy, leathery scent that opens with a cheerful pop of mandarin, which brightens up the richer notes of rose, osmanthus, and vetiver. Burch wanted it to smell like the inside of a handbag, and it does—albeit a very fancy one. If you like the idea of a citrus fragrance but want something with more complexity and depth, give Sublime a sniff. (The bottle is gorgeous, too, and looks like a work of art on your vanity.)

Tester feedback from social media director Kassidy Silva

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“If you could bottle up the essence of summer, it would exist as 90 milliliters of Tory Burch's Sublime Eau de Parfum. The bright mandarin note hits you first, followed by a tinge of rose and peach, and ends with a surprising hint of leather. This perfume is consistently my go-to recommendation for anyone looking for a more elevated citrus scent or is looking to test the waters in the category.” —Kassidy Silva, social media director

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• Key notes: mandarin, rose, osmanthus, vetiver
• Sizes: 0.3 oz, 1 oz, 3 oz

Best Floral Citrus: Jo Malone London Orange Blossom Cologne

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Jo Malone London

Orange Blossom Cologne

$175

Nordstrom

$175

Sephora

$170

Bluemercury

Allure contributing commerce writer Christa Joanna Lee applying the Jo Malone London Orange Blossom Cologne

Christa Joanna Lee

Why we love it: Orange blossom and neroli scents toe the line between citrus and floral fragrances, and that’s part of their magic. Orange blossoms come from the orange tree (surprise surprise!) and have a delicately sweet scent with just a hint of citrus freshness. Jo Malone’s perfectly lovely interpretation is a bestseller for a reason; because Orange Flower is a cologne versus an eau de toilette or parfum, it has a lighter concentration of perfume oil—ideal for those days when you’re in the mood for something airy and simple but still elevated.

Tester feedback from contributing commerce writer Christa Joanna Lee

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"As someone who's pretty sensitive to fragrance—and prone to headaches from anything too strong—I've been on a mission to find fresh perfumes that don't overwhelm me. It turns out Jo Malone London has quite a few favorites that fit the bill, with the latest being the Orange Blossom Cologne. The orange note is definitely noticeable, but because it comes from clementine blossom and orange blossom rather than straight citrus peel, it smells softer, airier, and more floral than zesty. I usually do three spritzes—two on my neck and one on my wrists—which gives me plenty to have it last throughout the day!" —Christa Joanna Lee, contributing commerce writer

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• Key notes: orange flower, clementine, lilac, orriswood
• Sizes: 1 oz, 3.4 oz

Best Spicy Citrus: By Rosie Jane Remi Eau de Parfum

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By Rosie Jane

Remi Eau de Parfum

$86

Amazon

$86

Nordstrom

$86

Sephora

Allure temporary features director Kara McGrath applying the By Rosie Jane Remi Eau de Parfum

Kara McGrath

Why it's worth it: At first you’d think Remi is an all-citrus, all the time fragrance, but then it surprises you with a generous sprinkle of cardamom. This spicy, cozy take on citrus opens with mandarin and bergamot, then quickly warms up with the addition of cardamom, petitgrain, and a luscious base of amber and cedar. While many citrus fragrances feel extra summery, Remi is one you could easily wear all through fall and winter, especially with your favorite cashmere sweater.

Tester feedback from temporary features director Kara McGrath

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“Remi has become one of my go-to travel scents: It's so light, fresh, and universally appealing that I know it'll work well for any variety of activities I have planned for a trip. I love a mandarin-forward scent—it smells a bit sharper (in a good way) to me than other orange citrus—but particularly appreciate the cardamom note in this one. That hint of spice makes it feel a little sexy and, in my opinion, helps it last longer than other zesty scents. Remi dries down to a beautiful amber fragrance by the end of the day, which works well as a base if I want to layer a new evening scent on top.” —Kara McGrath, temporary features director

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• Key notes: bergamot leaf, mandarin, cardamom, petitgrain
• Sizes: 0.3 oz, 1.7 oz

Best Marine Citrus: The Harmonist Sacred Water Eau de Parfum

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The Harmonist

Sacred Water Eau de Parfum

$285

Nordstrom

$285

Bluemercury

Allure beauty director Sarah Kinonen holding The Harmonist Sacred Water Eau de Parfum

Sarah Kinonen

Why it's worth it: The Harmonist’s Sacred Water is the kind of citrus scent (and Best of Beauty Award winner, mind you) you reach for when you need to recenter yourself. Inspired by the immersive, invigorating energy of the ocean, it’s an uplifting fragrance that blends crisp citron and mandarin notes with a twist of zingy ginger to wake up your senses, then relaxes into a heart of marine and woody notes—essentially bringing the rejuvenating beauty of a vast seaside view to you wherever you are.

Tester feedback from beauty director Sarah Kinonen

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“I've been wearing this fragrance—with notes of orange blossom, ginger, and amber—exclusively since I discovered it during Best of Beauty testing in 2022. It's light, fresh, and has a certain je ne sais quoi that elicits compliments throughout the day—in and out of the office. I do wish Sacred Water was more affordable, but it's such a beautiful scent in an even more beautiful bottle, so it's easy to see why the cost is so high!" —Sarah Kinonen, beauty director

More to know

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• Key notes: citron, mandarin, ginger, orange blossom, cedar
• Sizes: 1.7 oz

Best Fresh Citrus: Better World Fragrance House Cloudar Eau de Parfum

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Better World Fragrance House

Cloudar Eau de Parfum

$86

Ulta Beauty

Allure commerce editor Sarah Han applying the Better World Fragrance House Cloudar Eau de Parfum

Sarah Han

Why it's worth it: OK, first things first: the bottle! How cool is this orb-shaped, frosty white bottle? Good news—the scent inside is equally exciting, a woody, aromatic fragrance with top notes of spicy ginger balanced by juicy mandarin orange and crisp pear. Sage sings at the heart, enhanced by jasmine and lily of the valley, and as the scent develops, it settles into a base of warm tonka and woody vetiver and cedar. Like Sublime, this is a fragrance you’ll definitely want to display; it could do double duty as an objet d’art in your home.

Tester feedback from commerce editor Sarah Han

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“Never did I think I'd be into a scent created by checks notes Drake out of all people, but here we are! I would've clocked his scents as intense and heady but Cloudar is quite the opposite: light, fresh, and uplifting, thanks to notes of mandarin, ginger, and clary sage. It's kind of like a spa, bottled, but not as herbal-y or woody as an actual spa. It's the type of approachable but unique scent I can wear just about anywhere, from the office to happy hour. I'm not usually into minimalist packaging, but I have to say, the sculptural design of it is pretty cool—even if it does take up more space than your usual perfume.” —Sarah Han, commerce editor

More to know

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• Key notes: ginger, mandarin, nashi pear, sage, tonka, vetiver
• Sizes: 3.4 oz

More citrus fragrances we love:

Best Grapefruit: Henry Rose Windows Down Eau de Parfum

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Henry Rose

Windows Down Eau de Parfum

$120

Amazon

$120

Nordstrom

$120

Credo Beauty

Why we love it: Grapefruit is the kind of citrus note that practically sparkles right out of the bottle, and Windows Down has a delightfully adventurous air that feels like hopping in the car for a summer road trip. This Best of Beauty Award winner is paired with the equally zesty bergamot right up top, with Earl Grey tea, orange flower, and jasmine mid-notes bringing a calm, sweetly floral freshness to the heart. Moss, guaiacwood, and musk are reminiscent of forest scenes whipping past the windows as you drive down the highway.

Tester feedback from contributor Jihan Forbes

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"Henry Rose's Windows Down Eau de Parfum was made for the summer; its notes of grapefruit, bergamot, and neroli combine to create a fresh-but-not-overpowering smell. It's one of those scents that just melts into your skin, mingling beautifully with your body chemistry. Yes, it smells like you're wearing a bit of perfume, but it mostly smells like you smell good naturally. I've been rotating between this and two other fragrances this month, applying this after moisturizing." —Jihan Forbes, contributor

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• Key notes: grapefruit, bergamot, Earl Grey tea, orange flower, jasmine, moss, musk
• Sizes: 0.27 oz, 1.7 oz

Best Bergamot: Le Labo Bergamote 22 Eau de Parfum

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Le Labo

Bergamote 22 Eau de Parfum

$250

Nordstrom

Why it's worth it: Le Labo’s Bergamote 22 is a best-in-class bergamot scent that spotlights the tart green citrus fruit in all its glory. Along with the star, Bergamote 22 expertly blends in grapefruit and petitgrain for an effervescent opening, combined with white tea notes for extra freshness, plus a woody backbone of vetiver paired with amber and musk. Because of its high citrus concentration and lighter profile, Bergamote 22 would be the perfect pick for an office fragrance.

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• Key notes: violet leaf, grapefruit, petitgrain, amber, vetiver, musk
• Sizes: 0.33 oz, 1.7 oz, 3.4 oz, 6.8 oz

Best Green: Chloe Atelier des Fleurs Vert Soleil Eau de Parfum

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Chloé

Atelier des Fleurs Vert Soleil Eau de Parfum

$330

Nordstrom

Why it's worth it: “Vert soleil” means “green sun,” and that’s exactly what the fragrance feels like on the skin: bright, energizing, and evocative. The key note is lentisque, a shrub that is native to the Mediterranean and elevated by the delightful sweetness of mandarin. A lot of scents claim to be a vacation in a bottle, but this green citrus fragrance really is one! (And we can’t get over that gorgeous bottle color, either.)

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• Key notes: mandarin, bergamot, pink pepper, black pepper, musk
• Sizes: 5 oz

Best Citrus Blend: Chris Collins Citrus Grandis Eau de Parfum

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Chris Collins

Citrus Grandis Eau de Parfum

$175

Nordstrom

Why it's worth it: Chris Collins’ Citrus Grandis does it all: It’s bright and cheerful, yet deep and thoughtful. At first spritz, you’re instantly enchanted and uplifted by sparkling, tart notes of pomelo and yuzu. As the scent develops, notes of vetiver and cedarwood add a woody complexity, especially when paired with the citrus-herbal verbena heart. This is the citrus fragrance you’ll want to wear in the depths of winter when you’re craving spring so much you can almost taste it.

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• Key notes: pomelo, yuzu, verbena, vetiver, cedarwood, incense
• Sizes: 1.7 oz

Best Refreshing: Bvlgari Eau Parfumée Thé Impérial

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Bvlgari

Eau Parfumée Thé Impérial

$250

Nordstrom

Why it's worth it: As refreshing as a glass of freezing-cold iced tea on a steamy day, Bvlgari’s Eau Parfumée Thé Impérial is a blend of crisp, malty black tea from Sri Lanka and a healthy squeeze of Italian citrus. Just like a slice of lemon enhances the flavor of your iced tea, the fruit does the same thing here, making it all the more luscious without ever feeling heavy. Instead, the perfume is light, bright, and a total delight to wear.

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• Key notes: citrus, black tea
• Sizes: 2.5 oz, 5 oz

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between citrus and fruity fragrances?

The lines can sometimes get a little blurry when it comes to fragrance descriptors, but citrus and fruity scents are not the same. According to Christina Christie, senior perfumer at Givaudan, citrus notes bring “freshness, brightness, energy, and an uplifting quality to a fragrance.” Citrus scents include ingredients like bergamot, lemon, orange, or grapefruit; fruity fragrances would include ingredients like berries, peach, or pear.

Why do citrus scents typically fade faster than other fragrances?

As Christie explains, citrus notes tend to fade faster because they’re “primarily derived from natural materials and are composed of highly volatile molecules” that evaporate quickly. “Citrus ingredients are designed to create an immediate burst of freshness and impact rather than long-lasting performance,” she says.

How would you recommend making a citrus scent last longer?

To make a citrus fragrance last longer, Christie suggests layering with musks, woods, and floral notes for a longer-lasting foundation. And don’t underestimate the power of a fragrance-free lotion as a base to help lock in your scent.

Meet the experts

• Christina Christie, senior perfumer at Givaudan

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 citrus perfumes, 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 fragrance experts. To learn more information on our reporting and testing processes, read our complete reviews process and methodology page.

Our staff and testers

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

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

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Gone are the days when a full night's sleep was my secret to glowing skin. These days, as an on-camera beauty expert, podcast cohost, and mom of three (if you count my senior Frenchie who claims half the bed every night), I wake up looking exactly how I feel: tired. Add the fact that I'm approaching 40, and my complexion needs a little extra convincing to look bright, plump, and well-rested.

Thankfully, years of testing skin-care products—with plenty of trial and error on my own face—have taught me that you don't need an hour-long routine to revive tired, dull skin. A few strategic products can help depuff, boost radiance, and make your skin look noticeably more awake in minutes. While I still rely on regular visits to my dermatologist and favorite esthetician (lasers and microneedling included) for long-term skin health, these are the skin-care essentials I reach for every morning when I need an instant reset.

Allure contributor Sara Tan walks through her morning skin-care routine.

Best of Both Worlds: Then I Met You Living Sea Cleansing Tonic

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Then I Met You

Living Sea Cleansing Tonic

$34

Amazon

$34

Soko Glam

For years, I've been firmly on Team Don't Wash Your Face in the Morning. As someone with very dry skin, I don't want to strip away the natural lipids my skin worked so hard to replenish overnight. That said, I still want to remove any overnight buildup (aka eye and mouth crusties) and give my complexion a nourishing refresh, which is exactly why I reach for Then I Met You's Living Sea Cleansing Tonic.

I pour it onto a cotton pad and sweep it over my face, since it functions as both a cleansing step and a hydrating toner; it’s powered by 85% deep sea water sourced from Gangwon, Korea—which is packed with minerals like magnesium and potassium to help boost hydration—along with papaya enzymes, licorice root, seaberry, and persimmon extract, which work together to gently brighten skin. While some cleansers can leave your skin feeling tight or dry, this tonic helps my complexion feel soft, plump, and refreshed—the perfect hydrated canvas for the rest of my morning skin-care routine.

Fake a Facial: Shark Depuffi

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Shark

Depuffi

$199

Amazon

$200

Ulta Beauty

$199

Sephora

These days, it feels like it takes just one sushi dinner for me to wake up looking puffy. And while plenty of beauty creators swear by dunking their face into a bowl of ice water, to quote Randy Jackson from American Idol, “It's a no from me, dawg.” I'd much rather reach for Shark Beauty's Depuffi. The gua sha-inspired contrast therapy device alternates between cooling and warming temperatures to help reduce puffiness, encourage lymphatic drainage, and temporarily sculpt the face.

I almost always use the cold InstaChill mode first thing in the morning, focusing on my under-eyes, jawline, and cheekbones. It gives me the fresh-from-the-freezer effect of cryotherapy , but without the brain freeze or the hassle of filling a bowl with ice every morning—because who actually has time for that?

Mask On: Oak Essentials Refining Face Mask

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Oak Essentials

Refining Face Mask

$68

Amazon

$68

Nordstrom

$68

Ulta Beauty

Some mornings, no amount of skin care seems capable of reviving my complexion. That's when I reach for Oak Essentials' Refining Mask. In about 10 minutes, the face mask gives my face a soft-focus effect by visibly smoothing texture and blurring the look of my pores. The ceramides help support my moisture barrier, while blue tansy leaves my complexion looking calm, hydrated, and radiant.

Bonus points: The grounding, herbal scent of chamomile and blue tansy is reminiscent of a spa, which makes it feel that much more luxurious. It's the mask I reach for before filming, a big event, or anytime I need my skin to look dewy and fresh.

Eyes on the Prize: Tatcha The Brightening Eye Cream

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Tatcha

The Brightening Eye Cream

$65

Amazon

$65

Ulta Beauty

$65

Sephora

I didn't believe in eye creams until I had kids. That's when I began my quest to find something—anything—that made me look a little less zombie-like. While I'm the first to admit that most eye creams take weeks, if not months, of consistent use to deliver real results, I still hoped to find one that made my under-eyes look a little better in a pinch.

Was I asking for a miracle? Absolutely. But Tatcha's Brightening Eye Cream comes pretty close to one. It instantly makes my under-eye area look brighter, smoother, and less puffy, while the time-release vitamin C gets to work on dark circles over time. It's one of the few eye creams that gives me enough of an immediate payoff to keep me reaching for it every morning.

Pour on the Glow: Rhode Glazing Milk

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Rhode

Glazing Milk

$32

Sephora

$32

Rhode

I know there are hundreds of milky toners on the market right now, and plenty of them are excellent—but there's something about Rhode's Glazing Milk that my skin absolutely loves. It's lightweight enough that it never feels heavy or sticky, yet nourishing enough to make an immediate difference in how comfortable my dry skin feels.

I suspect the ceramide trio and mineral-rich formula have something to do with it, but whatever the magic is, my skin drinks it up. On mornings when I'm feeling especially dehydrated, I'll apply two or three thin layers, pressing each one in with my fingertips. By the time I'm done, my skin looks noticeably plumper, calmer, and ready for everything that comes next.

Bounce It: Dr. Diamond's Metacine Instafacial Plasma

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Dr. Diamond's Metacine

Instafacial Plasma

$200

Amazon

$200

Nordstrom

$200

Dermstore

As someone who's a big believer in in-office collagen-stimulating treatments like microneedling and PRP, I'm always looking for ways to support those results at home. That's what led me to Dr. Diamond's InstaFacial Plasma. The lightweight, watery face serum is formulated with bioengineered human-identical growth factors inspired by the regenerative proteins found in platelet-rich plasma, along with peptides and hyaluronic acid to hydrate and support the skin barrier.

While I've noticed my skin becoming firmer, smoother, and more radiant after weeks of use, what keeps me using it every morning are the results: My skin always looks noticeably bouncier, more luminous, and just healthier overall immediately after I apply it. It sinks in instantly, layers beautifully under the rest of my routine, and gives me that coveted "good skin day" glow before I've even put on moisturizer.

Lock It in: Peach & Lily Advanced Rebound BioGlow Zombie Cream

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Peach & Lily

Advanced Rebound Bioglow Zombie Cream

$59

Ulta Beauty

Dry skin means moisture is non-negotiable for me, and that's only gotten truer as I inch toward 40 next year. Lately I've been reaching for Peach & Lily's new Advanced Rebound BioGlow Zombie Cream (yes, that's really the name). The face moisturizer is made to target "zombie cells," the damaged cells that stick around—rather than shed—and quietly contribute to sagging and dullness.

I didn't expect anything after one use, and I didn't get anything after one use. But a few weeks in, my skin had a plumpness and glow I noticed without searching for it. Now, it's in my morning rotation specifically for the days I look especially tired; I apply a thin layer, and my skin looks instantly better.

Pucker Up: Eadem Le Chouchou Lip Softening Balm

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Eadem

Le Chouchou Lip Softening Balm

$24

Amazon

$24

Sephora

Dry, flaky lips can undo all the work you've put into making your skin look fresh, so a good lip treatment is non-negotiable in my morning routine. Lately, I've been reaching for Eadem’s Le Chou Chou because it does more than just coat my lips in moisture. The blend of gentle exfoliating acids and nourishing butters smooths away dry patches while peptides help my lips look fuller and softer over time. The glossy finish is the icing on the cake: It makes my lips look healthy and hydrated without feeling sticky, and it's comfortable enough to wear on its own or under lipstick.

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Martha Stewart has been blonde for her entire career. Blonde hair has been a signature element of her look since the day she began sharing her homemaking secrets and expertise with the world, and honestly, once you find what works for you, why change it? Well, change it she did, because Stewart just entered her rose gold era—and pink(ish) hair looks just as good on her as her signature buttery blonde.

Stewart teamed up once more with hairstylist Chris Appleton, who gave her the subtlest, prettiest, most whimsical wash of pink in her pale blonde hair using Schwarzkopf hair color. The two introduced Stewart's “rose gold era” with a cute video depicting the before and after, first showing Stewart in her current light blonde and then, presto! She's pink! It's not a bright, all-over bubblegum pink or streaks of neon, but rather a light, barely there pink mixed with the golden tone of her base that looks so pretty and enchanting on the entrepreneur. Think of it like a recipe, maybe adding flowers to a frosted cake or sprinkling powdered sugar atop a sponge cake; Stewart's rose gold hair injects a sprinkle of the same whimsy into the last few weeks of summertime.

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Appleton first highlighted Stewart's hair to ensure an even color application, then applied a glossy mix of Schwazkopf's Igora Vibrance color (9.5-19 + 9.5-5, if your colorist is curious) blended with clear for the most delicate rosy tint with lots of shine. Because this is a gloss-based formula, it will fade faster than other hair color formulations, but that's part of the fun—you can live it up in a whimsical, sugar-sweet pale pastel without making a longtime commitment!

Now, just because Stewart hasn't deviated from blonde—besides her famous Halloween costume wigs, of course—doesn't mean she hasn't changed up said blonde in the past. Stewart is all about evolving while staying true to herself, and that applies to her hair color. She and Appleton previously had fun incorporating Pantone's color of the year, Mocha Mousse, into her blonde base, adding depth and warmth to her go-to flaxen shade. But there's something so special about pink hair; one dye job and you feel like a fairy princess. There's still quite a bit of summer left, despite what all those back-to-school headlines will tell you, so why not channel the one and only Martha Stewart and dip into your rose gold era too?

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TL;DR:

• What it is: A flat-back claw clip designed for a comfortable hold and all-day wear
• What it does: Keeps hair securely in place while allowing you to lean back, drive, travel, and relax without digging into your head
• Who it’s for: Anyone who loves claw clips but hates constantly readjusting them

As a self-proclaimed BookTok girlie, I love to read. Literally anywhere and everywhere: on my couch, in bed, on the subway, when I’m traveling, you name it. But when I pull my hair back to keep it out of my face while reading, most claw clips end up digging into the back of my head, which…does not make for the most pleasant page-turning experience.

Then one of my colleagues put me onto Teleties Flat Back Hair Clips, and I’ve never looked back.

And they’re so easy to use! I pull my hair back into a ponytail style, then twist it up, and then secure it in place with the clip’s flexible teeth. The flattened design (which comes in so many fun shades and shapes!) keeps my hair firmly in place for however long I’m reading—and/or binge-watching Ted Lasso, sweating it out at Barry’s, or simply sitting on an airplane.

All without a random poke in the back of my head or constantly having to readjust my clip! Honestly, I don’t know if I could go back to traditional claw clips again after using these—and you don’t have to either.

Teleties Flat Square Hair Clip is in the August Allure Beauty Box.

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Teleties Flat Square Hair Clip

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There are few things in fashion quite as anticipated as a September issue of Vogue. It's the glossy, grown-up equivalent of a first-day-of-school outfit. But it also serves as one of the biggest beauty moments of any given year. So when British Vogue put Nicole Kidman on its September 2026 cover, photographed by Venetia Scott, the shoot did not disappoint—particularly if you enjoy a beauty look that makes you do a little bit of a double-take.

Kidman's brows are there, technically. But they're playing a rather refined game of hide-and-seek.

Normally, the actor's brows are noticeably deeper than her famously strawberry blonde hair (which has been more blonde than strawberry in recent years). Here, however, they appear to have been matched almost exactly to her hair color. The result is so monochromatic that the brows practically dissolve into her skin.

Photo: British Vogue/Venetia Scott

The barely-there brows are paired with voluminous hair, allowing hairstylist Adir Abergel and makeup artist Fulvia Farolfi to work together on a vision that provided much of the cover's visual drama. In fact, the hair and makeup get even more intense in many of the shoot's other photos.

Photo: British Vogue/Venetia Scott

Kidman has never seemed particularly precious about experimenting with hair and makeup. In fact, she credits a formative experience with teaching her just how impactful beauty can be. “I've said it before, but I used to go to trans clubs. That's where I learnt to do my hair and make-up. I would sit down as a little freckled-faced red-headed girl, and they would make me beautiful,” she says in the interview with executive editor Giles Hattersley. “They would do my lashes and straighten my hair and put hairpieces on me and makeup. I would walk out of there, and I would feel pretty. I would feel like I was transformed.”

Photo: British Vogue/Venetia Scott

Kidman clearly understands that hair and makeup can be transformative without having to be permanent—and this particular transformation is less “I bleached my brows!” and more “What if we made them disappear just for the afternoon? As a treat.”

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TL;DR:

• What it is: A buildable shimmer eye shadow you can literally apply with your finger
• What it does: Adds light-catching dimension with minimal effort (see finger-friendly application)
• Who it’s for: Anyone who wants an eye shadow that works for both low-maintenance makeup days and full-on glam moments

My hot take? Glitter eye shadow is one of the best hacks for no-makeup days.

I know, it sounds like a paradox, but let me explain. Shimmer has a reputation for being reserved for nights out, but I started to notice that when I was only wearing mascara, my bare eyelids were pulling the focus.

So when in doubt, add shimmer. The fix may seem counterintuitive, but now it’s my go-to—and this buildable glitter shadow from Half Magic is the one I keep reaching for. Yes, it’s made by the creator of the iconic glittery looks from Euphoria, makeup artist Donni Davy, but don’t let that make you think it’s too dramatic for everyday wear.

Here’s how I use it: I dip my ring finger into the pot, tap the color across my lids, and then gently blend. It may look questionable for a few seconds, but trust the process. As you blend, the formula starts to add dimension and creates a vibe that looks put together without even trying.

It’s versatile, too. If I’m going out, the very same shadow can build for more impact, or I like to dab it in the inner corners of my eyes for some light-catching, Rue- and Jules-approved magic.

Half Magic Eye Shadow Single is in the August Allure Beauty Box.

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Half Magic Eye Shadow Singles

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If you've been watching your hair get sparser lately, or your hair is naturally on the thin side, you've probably heard the typical advice: You can try over-the-counter supplements and topicals, in-office treatments, or even hair pieces like extensions or a topper. And while there's nothing wrong with taking any of those routes, they're not for everyone. A cleverly styled cut that fools the eye with sleight of hair, on the other hand, is very much on the table.

No stylist can magically make more of your own hair appear, but the right cut can create the illusion of fuller, denser strands. In fact, choosing the wrong haircut can have the opposite effect, leaving fine hair looking flatter, stringier, or more see-through than it actually is.

The secret isn't simply chopping your hair off or piling on layers. Depending on what you're working with, it may be keeping every strand the same length so the ends look thick and healthy. Other times, it's all about carefully thought-out trims that give your roots lift. Even something as seemingly minor as changing your part or adding bangs can make a noticeable difference.

The best haircut for thin hair isn't necessarily the shortest one, the trendiest one, or the one your favorite celebrity happens to be wearing. It's the one that strategically redistributes weight, creates movement where you need it, and makes every strand count. "The haircut has to work with your hair, not against it," says Billy Hannam, a hairstylist at Anushka Spa and Salon in Palm Beach. Fortunately, several cuts do exactly that. These are our expert-approved favorites.

Meet the experts:

• Billy Hannam is a hairstylist at Anushka Spa and Salon in Palm Beach.
• Kee Taylor is a hairstylist based in Philadelphia and Los Angeles.
• Amerah Underwood is a hairstylist and cofounder of UMI Salon in New York City.

Blunt bob

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If hairstylists had to crown one universally flattering haircut for allover fine or thin hair, the blunt bob would probably take the title. "A blunt bob is a one-length haircut with clean, sharp ends," says hairstylist Kee Taylor, who splits her time between Philadelphia and Los Angeles. "The lack of layers creates a strong, solid perimeter."

She recommends asking your stylist for "a blunt, one-length bob with minimal layering" and mentioning that you'd like to preserve as much density through the ends as possible. Those details matter because every snip of unnecessary layering removes hair from the very place you're trying to make look fuller.

Hannam agrees that restraint is key. While a stylist might customize the cut with subtle face-framing or a touch of texturizing, "generally speaking, it's all about having everything be one length so that bottom line is as thick as possible," he says.

That strong line is exactly why the haircut works so well. Thin hair naturally loses density toward the ends, Taylor says, which is why longer styles can sometimes look wispy no matter how healthy the hair is. Amerah Underwood, hairstylist and cofounder of UMI Salon in New York City, explains that layers on uniformly fine hair remove weight exactly where it can least afford to lose it. Instead, a blunt bob "stacks all the hair at the same endpoint, so the ends look thick, dense, and healthy instead of wispy or see-through."

Its simplicity is another major advantage. Underwood notes that "the blunt line accomplishes most of the styling work because it's the style in and of itself." On naturally straight hair, wear it sleek to emphasize the crisp line. Loose, brushed-out waves can add movement while preserving the blunt shape, and a lightweight texturizing spray like BLVD & Co Texture Sea Salt Texture Spray at the roots adds lift without compromising the fullness at the ends. We also love Unite Texturiza Spray for its matte finish and medium hold.

Textured pixie

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For many people with fine hair, the instinct is to grow it longer in hopes of making it look fuller. In reality, all that extra length can weigh hair down, making it appear flatter. That's why a textured pixie is a stylist darling.

"A textured pixie is a cropped haircut with soft, piecey layers that create movement and dimension," says Taylor. She recommends asking your stylist for plenty of texture through the crown while leaving enough length on top to separate and style the pieces in a variety of ways.

Because the hair is shorter, there's simply less weight pulling it down. "Fine hair can actually thrive in shorter cuts," Taylor says. Strategic layers at the crown create lift and height, making the hair appear denser than it really is.

Hannam points out another benefit that often goes overlooked: Pixie cuts reveal your newest, healthiest hair. Since the older, more fragile ends have been cut away, what's left tends to look and feel thicker and stronger. He also likes pixies for clients experiencing thinning around the top of the head because the length can be customized to camouflage sparse areas.

Underwood says this cut is especially appealing for anyone who likes an effortless, lived-in aesthetic. Rather than creating blunt edges, razor-cutting produces soft, broken-up pieces that enhance texture without making fine hair look stringy. And at-home styling doesn't have to be complicated, either. A little texturizing cream, like the heat-protective Keracolor Texturizing Cream, helps separate the pieces for a tousled finish, while a quick upside-down blow-dry adds lift before you even reach for styling products. If you want something dressier, smooth the sides back with a bit of pomade (the R+Co Dart Pomade Stick is ridiculously easy to use) while leaving texture on top.

Bixie

Photo: Getty ImagesPhoto: Getty ImagesPhoto: Getty ImagesPhoto: Getty Images

Can't decide between a bob and a pixie? The bixie offers the best of both worlds. As the name suggests, the bixie combines elements of both cuts, keeping enough length to feel soft and versatile while borrowing the lighter shape and volume of a pixie.

That balance is exactly what makes the bixie so flattering for fine hair. By removing excess weight without losing all your length, it encourages lift at the roots while maintaining movement throughout the rest of the cut. "It naturally builds volume around the crown without sacrificing softness," Taylor explains. The layered shape creates dimension, making the hair appear thicker from every angle.

For anyone who's intrigued by a pixie but nervous about going that short, the bixie can feel like the perfect compromise. It's playful without being drastic, polished without feeling stiff, and gives fine hair exactly what it often lacks: shape, body, and movement.

Deep, side-swept bangs

Photo: Getty ImagesPhoto: Getty ImagesPhoto: Getty ImagesPhoto: Getty Images

Sometimes, the biggest transformation doesn't require a full haircut at all. Simply changing where your hair parts and adding side-swept bangs can instantly create the appearance of more volume. They can complement every imaginable length and are one of the easiest ways to refresh your look without a total overhaul. When talking to your stylist, ask for face-framing fringe that can easily sweep across the forehead from a deep side part. The emphasis should be on versatility so you can still style them multiple ways.

The thinness-masking magic comes partly from changing the direction of the hair. “It immediately creates lift at the roots," Taylor explains. Hair that's accustomed to lying one way naturally gains height when flipped in the opposite direction, while the sweeping fringe creates softness and fullness around the face.

"Deep, side bangs are the move," Hannam says, because it simply shifts more hair toward the area people notice first. If you're experiencing thinning or receding around the front hairline, that extra bulk helps camouflage it naturally.

Even if you don't commit to side bangs permanently, Underwood recommends switching your part every so often. If you've worn a middle part for years, moving it to one side can make your hair look noticeably fuller almost immediately while also preventing repeated stress along the exact same part line.

Shag or wolf cut

Photo: Getty ImagesPhoto: Getty ImagesPhoto: Getty ImagesPhoto: Getty Images

The shag and wolf cut might not seem like obvious choices for fine hair. After all, both rely on layers, and layers often get blamed for making thin hair look even thinner. The difference is that these cuts aren't just about removing hair; they're about placing layers strategically.

"A shag tends to blend the layers more softly, while a wolf cut leans into a more dramatic contrast between volume at the crown and longer lengths underneath," Taylor explains. Rather than just bringing along a photo you found online, she recommends having your stylist customize the amount of layering to suit your hair density.

"When customized correctly, these cuts create movement and body where fine hair often lacks it," she says. Short crown layers build lift and help create volume, which tricks the eye into seeing more density overall, and face-framing pieces create visual fullness around the face.

Underwood says the heavy layering does "a lot of visual work." Instead of one flat curtain of hair, which tends to reveal every sparse area, choppy layers catch the light differently, creating dimension and texture. Volume becomes concentrated where thinning hair needs it most: the crown and mid-lengths.

That said, more layers aren't always better. Taylor cautions that aggressive layering that doesn't consider your specific hair type can remove too much density, while Hannam notes that trying to maintain a lot of length while adding shaggy layers can leave the ends looking stringy. The sweet spot is enough layering to create movement without disrupting fullness. The wolf cut, in particular, embraces a slightly messy, tousled finish, which Underwood says works in fine hair's favor.