Author: viakmr

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

Those five minutes at the end of the day when you finally get to wash your face and focus on yourself? We consider that self-care, and the best Farmacy products make those moments even better. Take the sorbet-like Green Clean Cleansing Balm, which makes removing a full face of makeup feel luxurious, or the silky Honey Milk Hydrating Essence, which gives thirsty skin an immediate drink. But there's more to Farmacy than just pampering. Behind those satisfying textures are formulas that combine farm-grown botanicals like honey, papaya, and moringa with tried-and-true skin-care ingredients, including niacinamide, ceramides, and salicylic acid, that keep doing their job long after you’ve stepped away from the bathroom sink.

Whether you're dealing with a shiny T-zone, stubborn dark spots, or skin that never seems to get enough moisture, there's a Farmacy product for you. Ahead, we're sharing our favorites, from Best of Beauty Award winners to newer finds worth making room for on your shelf.

Our Top Farmacy Products

• So Fresh and So Green: Green Clean Cleansing Balm, $39
• Bee Good to Your Barrier: Honey Milk Hydrating Essence, $34
• Cream of the Crop: Green Clean Gentle Creamy Cleanser, $32

So Fresh and So Green: Green Clean Cleansing Balm

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Farmacy

Green Clean Cleansing Balm

$39 $37 (5% off)

Amazon

Allure commerce market editor Sarah Hoffmann applying the Farmacy Green Clean Cleansing Balm

Sarah Hoffmann

Allure beauty director Sarah Kinonen applying the Farmacy Green Clean Cleansing Balm

Sarah Kinonen

Why it's worth it: Farmacy's Green Clean Cleansing Balm was already a Best of Beauty winner before its 2025 reformulation, and the updated version earned another award in 2026. Clearly, the changes haven't messed with a good thing. The minty-green balm still has that melts-in-your-fingertips, balm-to-oil texture that removes nearly every trace of SPF and waterproof makeup—no greasy film in sight. “You're never tugging or scrubbing at your skin with this cleanser," says Morgana Colombo, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in Reston, Virginia.

So what actually changed? The latest formula has an updated emulsifier system to help the balm rinse away more easily, swaps synthetic waxes for plant-based alternatives, and introduces the brand's signature Super Greens Blend of upcycled moringa, holy basil, and arugula (botanicals sourced from materials that might otherwise go to waste).

P.S. While it doesn't contain synthetic fragrance, its recognizable citrus-herbal scent comes from a blend of essential oils, including orange, bergamot, lime, and ylang-ylang. You can still reap all the makeup-melting benefits with the fragrance-free version.

Hoffmann before applying the Farmacy Green Clean Cleansing Balm

Sarah Hoffmann

Hoffmann after applying the Farmacy Green Clean Cleansing Balm

Sarah Hoffmann

Tester feedback from commerce market editor Sarah Hoffmann

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“Few products completely remove every trace of makeup quite like Farmacy's Green Clean Cleansing Balm. My skin is generally pretty clear, but when I'm not washing my face properly, it's quick to let me know it's angry with me. This balm provides such a thorough, gentle cleanse that it's never made my skin unhappy.” —Sarah Hoffman, commerce market editor

Tester feedback from beauty director Sarah Kinonen

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“Waterproof mascara? No problem. Casty, mineral sunscreen? Easy, peasy! Summertime grime? You bet Farmacy's cleansing balm can remove it—and remove it quickly with ease. Trust me, as someone who has tried to smear off all of the above (and more!), there's nothing this buttery, melt-in-your-hands cleanser—made with sunflower and moringa oils and papaya extract—can't handle. I love it after a long day at the office where a full face beat is the norm, or after an incredibly stinky, sweaty workout. It removes everything in seconds, leaves skin with a smooth (not tacky) finish, and makes for the perfect first step in my double-cleansing routine.” —Sarah Kinonen, beauty director

More to know

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• Key ingredients: sunflower seed oil, Super Greens Blend (upcycled moringa, holy basil, arugula), papaya extract
• Fragrance-free: free of synthetic fragrance

Overnight Overachiever: 10% Niacinamide Night Mask

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Farmacy

10% Niacinamide Night Mask

$43

Amazon

Why it’s worth it: Niacinamide has earned its status as skin care's "It" ingredient in recent years, addressing the most common complexion concerns, whether your skin is oily, dry, sensitive, or somewhere in between. Farmacy's 10% Niacinamide Night Mask doubles down on those benefits with a high-strength dose of the active to regulate excess oil, soften the look of pores, brighten uneven tone, and calm redness. To balance things out, the formula pairs niacinamide with 3% panthenol and beta-glucan to hydrate skin and antioxidant-rich upcycled blueberry seed. FYI: Niacinamide is fine to use during the day and isn't known to make skin more sensitive to the sun, but because this mask has a richer texture, it's better suited for nighttime use, when you don't have to worry about it feeling too slick under makeup or sunscreen.

Allure commerce editor Sarah Han applying the Farmacy 10% Niacinamide Night Mask

Sarah Han

Han after applying the Farmacy 10% Niacinamide Night Mask

Sarah Han

Tester feedback from commerce editor Sarah Han

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“The 10% Niacinamide Night Mask has quite a few green flags, the first being the bouncy gel-cream texture. It makes the formula feel more lightweight, despite it being called a mask. It almost has a water-burst effect; it's so refreshing! I honestly think that someone with drier skin could apply a light layer as a daytime cream I always wake up feeling like my skin looks extra dull, which is why I was so excited about the 10% niacinamide—my skin looks slightly brighter come morning, and the boost of skin softness from the panthenol and beta-glucan still holds over, too. I can't wait to see how it helps refine my pores—one of my biggest issues—in the long run.” —Sarah Han, commerce editor

More to know

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• Key ingredients: 10% niacinamide, 3% panthenol, upcycled blueberry seed
• Fragrance-free: yes

On the Bright Side: Brighten Up 3% TXA Toner

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Farmacy

Brighten Up 3% TXA Toner

$34 $31 (9% off)

Amazon

Why it’s worth it: The breakout may be long gone, but the dark spot it left behind? That's another story. Farmacy's Brighten Up 3% TXA Toner is made for lingering marks and discoloration from sun exposure. Its star ingredient is 3% tranexamic acid, which helps fade uneven pigmentation over time, while azelaic acid tackles the redness that can make post-acne marks even more noticeable.

But fading dark spots is only part of the equation. Dead skin cells can build up on the surface and make your complexion look dull, which is where 5% PHA (gluconolactone) comes in. It's a gentler exfoliating acid that smooths rough texture without the intensity of stronger acids like glycolic. Vitamin C adds antioxidant protection, and because even gentle exfoliation can sometimes leave skin feeling a little dry, glycerin and betaine help replenish moisture while allantoin keeps irritation in check. It's a multitasking option if you're looking to address both discoloration and texture without adding multiple treatments to your routine.

Allure contributing commerce editor Deanna Pai applying the Farmacy Brighten Up 3% TXA Toner

Deanna Pai

Pai after applying the Farmacy Brighten Up 3% TXA Toner

Deanna Pai

Tester feedback from contributing commerce editor Deanna Pai

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“My dark spots have been running rampant since the summer, and I’m currently in repair mode. What stood out for me is the tranexamic acid in this formula, since it’s one ingredient that can handle melasma. I have a little darkness on my upper lip from my most recent pregnancy, so I’ve been using this to tackle both that and the acne scars. It has a nice, slightly thick texture that feels comforting when I pat it in, and it dries down pretty quickly so I can move on to other steps. It’s evened out my overall skin tone and faded spots; I have to give it a few more months for the melasma, but am hopeful based on what I’ve seen so far.” —Deanna Pai, contributing commerce editor

More to know

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• Key ingredients: 3% tranexamic acid, azelaic acid, 5% PHA (gluconolactone), vitamin C, glycerin, betaine, allantoin
• Fragrance-free: yes

Better Together: Honey Glow & Filling Good Bundle

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Farmacy

Honey Glow & Filling Good Bundle

$108 $85 (21% off)

Amazon

Allure commerce editor Madison San Miguel applying the Farmacy Filling Good Hyaluronic Acid Plumping Serum

Madison San Miguel

Why it’s worth it: Figuring out which skin-care ingredients work well together can sometimes feel like it requires a chemistry degree (unless you've been hanging around Allure long enough, of course). Farmacy's Honey Glow & Filling Good Bundle takes the guesswork out of it by pairing two serums that tackle dullness, uneven texture, and fine lines from different angles. Start with the Honey Glow 17% Resurfacing Acid Serum, which uses glycolic and lactic acids to loosen the dead skin cells that can make your complexion look rough and uneven. At 17%, it's a pretty potent exfoliating treatment, but ingredients like honey, squalane, and grape seed oil help offset some of the dryness that can come with using acids.

Once absorbed, follow with the Filling Good Hyaluronic Acid Plumping Serum to boost moisture. It contains two forms of hyaluronic acid that attract water to the skin, temporarily plumping up fine lines so they're less noticeable. There's also a peptide to improve the look of firmness, plus glycerin and honey (a staple in Farmacy's skin-care lineup) to keep skin feeling soft and supple. The idea is to smooth things out with the first serum, then bring back any lost moisture with the second.

Tester feedback from commerce editor Madison San Miguel

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“My skin frequently gets that pesky ‘tight’ feeling post-cleanse, and this serum quickly revived it back to life. While it's incredibly lightweight and quick to absorb, its benefits were long felt even after I patted it in. I consider the formula a triple threat for my very dry skin: It deeply moisturized, smoothed dry patches, and calmed any irritation all in one. While I can't speak on its firming benefits, what I can praise is the subtle glass skin-like glow it left after. I was swooning!” —Madison San Miguel, commerce editor

More to know

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• Key ingredients: Honey Glow 17% Resurfacing Acid Serum: glycolic acid, lactic acid, honey, squalane, grape seed oil; Filling Good Hyaluronic Acid Plumping Serum: hyaluronic acid, peptides, glycerin, honey
• Fragrance-free: free of synthetic fragrance

Cream of the Crop: Green Clean Gentle Creamy Cleanser

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Farmacy

Green Clean Gentle Creamy Cleanser

$32

Amazon

Why it's worth it: Now that you've melted away makeup and SPF with an oil cleanser, it's time for part two of your double cleanse. Enter Farmacy’s Green Clean Gentle Creamy Cleanser, an airy, whipped face wash that purifies pores without leaving skin feeling tight or stripped. Moringa seed delivers antioxidant benefits while softening and hydrating skin, and upcycled apple extract and oat oil lock in moisture and soothe the complexion. The formula also contains vitamin F—a blend of essential fatty acids, including linoleic and linolenic acids—to support a healthy skin barrier. Its fresh lime-and-bergamot scent gives a spa-like touch to your cleansing routine, but there's also a fragrance-free option for sensitive skin.

More to know

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• Key ingredients: moringa seed, upcycled apple extract, oat oil, vitamin F
• Fragrance-free: free of synthetic fragrance

Bee Good to Your Barrier: Honey Milk Hydrating Essence

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Farmacy

Honey Milk Hydrating Essence

$34 $30 (12% off)

Amazon

Why it’s worth it: Maybe you're still on the fence about whether you really need an essence in your routine. (Fair: Serums are typically more concentrated and treatment-focused, while essences are lighter, layering formulas designed to flood skin with hydration and help the rest of your skin care absorb better.) Then you meet Farmacy’s Honey Milk Hydrating Essence, and suddenly the extra step starts to make a lot of sense. Unlike watery essences, this one has a lightweight, milky texture that feels instantly comforting on dry or stressed-out skin. Among the formula's soothing ingredients is Hawaiian white honey sourced from the Kiawe Forest, an isolated grove that has been home to beekeeping for generations. There’s also chamomile to calm redness, while ceramides, squalane, and panthenol strengthen the skin barrier and lock in moisture for lasting hydration. Cue plumper, calmer, and dewier skin.

More to know

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• Key ingredients: Hawaiian white honey, chamomile, ceramides, squalane, panthenol
• Fragrance-free: yes

Green Means Glow: Daily Greens Gel Moisturizer

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Farmacy

Daily Greens Gel Moisturizer

$44 $36 (18% off)

Amazon

Why it’s worth it: If you have oily skin, finding a moisturizer that hydrates without making your face look even shinier can feel like a never-ending search. Consider your quest complete with Farmacy's Daily Greens Gel Moisturizer, a bouncy, oil-free gel that feels cooling on contact and sinks in quickly without leaving behind a greasy finish. Multiple forms of hyaluronic acid and polyglutamic acid act like moisture magnets, helping skin stay comfortably hydrated long after application. Meanwhile, niacinamide and galacturonic acid (a component of pectin, the fiber-like substance found in fruits and vegetables) keep excess oil and shine in check, while moringa and papaya extracts provide antioxidant benefits.

More to know

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• Key ingredients: hyaluronic acid, polyglutamic acid, niacinamide, galacturonic acid
• Fragrance-free: yes

The Pore-fect Reset: Deep Sweep 2% BHA Toner

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Farmacy

Deep Sweep 2% BHA Toner

$34 $31 (9% off)

Amazon

Why it’s worth it: Shiny T-zone, clogged pores, rough texture? Farmacy’s 2% BHA Pore Cleaning Toner is here to help rein them all in. The formula stars 2% salicylic acid, the gold-standard BHA that gets deep into pores to loosen buildup that can lead to breakouts. Papaya enzymes and lactic acid help smooth rough patches and keep dullness at bay, while moringa seed extract and moringa leaf water provide antioxidant protection against environmental stressors. And since oily skin still needs moisture, glycerin helps keep skin hydrated so it doesn't feel tight or stripped after toning.

More to know

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• Key ingredients: 2% salicylic acid, papaya enzymes, moringa seed oil, moringa leaf water, glycerin
• Fragrance-free: yes

Frequently Asked Questions

Meet the experts

• Morgana Colombo, MD, a board-certified dermatologist at Intergrated Dermatology of Reston based in Reston, Virginia

How we find the best Farmacy products

Our shopping team searches daily for the best beauty products in the industry. We enlist the help of multiple editors, writers, contributors, and experts to determine which products are really worth your penny. Our sales stories are no different: We base our discounted selections on products with over 4.0 ratings, past Allure Best of Beauty award winners, and those that our editors and experts have tried and given a stamp of approval.

Why trust Allure?

No matter what you seek or your individual needs and concerns, we want 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.

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

Whether you hunting for the best gifts for expecting moms to treat a future mom-to-be or adding things to your own wishlist, cheers! Someone in your life is growing a baby, and that’s wonderful. But finding a present can be easier said than done. What exactly should you be gifting? Should it be something for the baby or mom?

Take it from someone in her third trimester: No matter what stage of pregnancy they’re in, expectant moms appreciate gifts that make these nine months and the months postpartum a little more comfortable. All I’m looking for is a little relief from my fast-changing body—the stretching skin, sore breasts, aching feet, and more—and the even faster changes I have to make to my lifestyle. Read on for gifts any mom-to-be would love, tested and researched by moms on the Allure team.

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• For During Pregnancy
• For Early Postpartum
• For Traveling With Baby
• More Mom-to-Be Recommendations

For During Pregnancy

True Botanicals Mindful Mama Belly and Body OilSave to wishlistSave to wishlist

True Botanicals

Mindful Mama Belly & Body Oil

$54

Nordstrom

$54

Shop

Why it's worth it: I oil my growing belly at least twice a day to help soothe the itchy, tight feeling of my stretching belly, and I have found that this is the body oil that I reach for most frequently. It absorbs quickly and has a calming scent that’s both earthy and citrusy. It combines a lengthy list of oils—including sunflower seed and jojoba—with centella asiatica extract, which can help support the skin barrier when it’s under stress.

Aveeno Skin Relief Moisture Repair CreamSave to wishlistSave to wishlist

Aveeno

Skin Relief Moisture Repair Cream

$19

Amazon

Why it's worth it: As various parts of my body grow, my patience for applying body care shrinks. I’m literally out of breath stretching to apply cream to hard-to-reach places (which now include my feet), and I don’t want to spend more time than I need to massaging it in. This drugstore body lotion spreads easily and absorbs quickly, yet keeps my skin moisturized for hours. (Seriously, I’ll apply it before bedtime, and my skin still feels velvety soft well into the next day.) It isn’t the least bit greasy and never leaves residue on my clothes.

Frida Mom Sore Nipple KitSave to wishlistSave to wishlist

Frida Mom

Sore Nipple Kit

$20 $19 (5% off)

Amazon

$20

Shop

Why it's worth it: I can’t say I paid much attention to my nipples until I got pregnant, but as the skin around them stretched and chapped, I realized they needed consistent care. I keep this kit in my purse because I never want to be without it. It includes a spray-on saline solution to cleanse the area and an emollient balm that has a non-messy, easy-to-use applicator. Together, they soothe dryness and discomfort.

Hatch Mini Discovery KitSave to wishlistSave to wishlist

Hatch

Mini Discovery Kit

$88

Ulta Beauty

Why it's worth it: This comprehensive set includes pregnancy body-care essentials—a decadent cream, luxurious oil, subtly scented deodorant, emollient nipple balm—in travel-friendly sizes. It’s perfect for getaways (like a weekend trip or babymoon) or a soon-to-be-mother still looking for their body-care faves.

Lola Blanket x Dagne Dover Dune BundleSave to wishlistSave to wishlist

Lola

Dune Bundle

$375

Shop

$375

Revolve

Why it's worth it: This luxe bundle is for mothers looking to prioritize coziness. It includes a plush, buttery-soft blanket that keeps you warm (but never too warm) and a medium-sized tote that they can use as a hospital bag on the big day.

Ritual Magnesium+ Mind and Muscle Relaxation PowderSave to wishlistSave to wishlist

Ritual

Magnesium+ Mind and Muscle Relaxation Powder

$56

Amazon

$57

Shop

$60

Ulta Beauty

Why it's worth it: Before I was pregnant, I regularly used magnesium supplements to help relax my mind and muscles before bed. Two teaspoons of this powder—formulated for prenatal and postpartum use—swirled in water helped me sleep more soundly with fewer interruptions throughout the night. Of course, make sure to check with your doctor before using it.

Kindle ColorsoftSave to wishlistSave to wishlist

Amazon

Kindle

$190

Amazon

Why it's worth it: I’m a voracious reader, but being pregnant means not staying up until 2 AM to find out if enemies become lovers. (That, and reading more books on babies.) The new Kindle Colorsoft’s display is comfortable and doesn’t overstimulate—making it easy to put down a book when I know my body needs rest.

Beats 360Save to wishlistSave to wishlist

Beats

360

$349

Amazon

Why it's worth it: On days that I’m too busy to sit down with a physical book or my e-reader, I’ll put headphones on and dive into an audiobook. This pair has been doing wonders at blocking out distractions while providing clear sound. They’re also so lightweight with interchangeable earpads that don’t get too hot or sweaty, even if I’ve had them on my ears for a few hours.

For Her First Few Evenings With a Newborn

Willow Go PumpSave to wishlistSave to wishlist

Willow

Go Pump

$200

Amazon

$180

Shop

Why it's worth it: Pumping can be an arduous process, but Willow Go strives to make this wearable pump as comfortable as possible. It’s quiet, hands-free, and includes inserts that help ensure the best fit around your nipples.

Dreamland Baby Bamboo Classic Non-Weighted SwaddleSave to wishlistSave to wishlist

Dreamland Baby

Bamboo Classic Swaddle

$56

Amazon

$56

Nordstrom

Why it's worth it: A swaddle like this extra-soft one by Dreamland is a thoughtful gift for both mom and baby. It grows with the child and accommodates their preferred sleep position—whether that means both arms tucked in or splayed out. The better the baby sleeps, the better mom—and everyone else in the house—sleeps, too. It’s a win-win.

Harpaa Cuddly Signature BassinetSave to wishlistSave to wishlist

Harpaa

Cuddly Signature Bassinet

$260 $230 (12% off)

Amazon

$260

Shop

Why it's worth it: Maybe the mom-to-be is planning to share a room with her baby. Perhaps she hasn’t set up the nursery yet. (You’ll find me in both camps.) Either way, she’ll thank you for the Harpaa Cuddly Signature Bassinet, which features five adjustable heights, can be rocked, and has wheels that make it easy to move from one room to another.

Munchkin Vibration SwingSave to wishlistSave to wishlist

Munchkin

Vibration Swing

$230 $207 (10% off)

Amazon

$230

Shop

Why it's worth it: This swing ensures good vibes only. Whether the new baby likes to be swayed from side to side or prefers gentle vibrations, this seat has you covered with over a hundred combinations of movement and sounds.

For Easy Travel With a Newborn

Nuna TRIV LX and PIPA Urbn Travel SystemSave to wishlistSave to wishlist

Nuna

TRIV LX + PIPA Urbn Travel System

$1,300

Nordstrom

Why it's worth it: There aren’t many stroller systems that are as pragmatic and feel as luxurious as the Nuna Triv LX and Urbn Travel System. The Triv LX has wheels that ensure smooth rides (and seamless turns) with a seat that easily moves into the car. It grows with her baby, accommodating a newborn on its way home from the hospital and toddlers up to 50lb.

Bumpsuit ArmadilloSave to wishlistSave to wishlist

Bumpsuit

Armadillo Baby Carrier

$275

Shop

Why it's worth it: Carriers are deeply personal, but of all the carriers I’ve tried—and I’ve tried on quite a few, thanks to friends with babies of their own—this one has felt like the most secure. Its thick (but airy) materials, straps that cross the back, and lumbar support keep baby comfortably close and snug against your chest. It also comes in an array of patterns—my favorite being Leopard print.

More Gift Ideas from Expecting Moms

Ked's Center III Leather Slip-OnsSave to wishlistSave to wishlist

Keds

Center III Leather Slip On

$65

Amazon

Why it's worth it: “There's nothing worse than wrestling to lace up your sneakers before dashing out of the house while nine months pregnant. Slip-on sneakers are a must for support and comfort to carry the new mom in your life all day long. My go-to pick are the Ked's Center III Leather Slip-Ons, which check all the boxes and can be worn long after pregnancy.” —Kassidy Silva, social director

Mabe's Monarch Accessory BagSave to wishlistSave to wishlist

Mabē

Monarch Accessory Bag

$34

Nordstrom

$34

Shop

Why it's worth it: “There is nothing worse than digging into your handbag and realizing you left your favorite lippie, hair clip, or sanity in your diaper bag. Mabe's Monarch Accessory Bag is the perfect essentials holder that they can toss in their purse and strap right to the baby carrier.” —Silva

Tubby Todd All Over OintmentSave to wishlistSave to wishlist

Tubby Todd Bath Co.

All Over Ointment

$36

Amazon

$36

Shop

Why it's worth it: “You can't scroll for more than five minutes on MomTok without hitting a Tubby Todd recommendation, and to be honest, the moms are right! I purchased the brand's All Over Ointment before my daughter was born to have on hand and used it after a particularly bad flare-up of eczema. Near-instant relief! I still use it to this day, and it's a household staple.” —Silva

Momcozy KleanPal Pro All-in-One Bottle WasherSave to wishlistSave to wishlist

Momcozy

KleanPal Pro All-in-One Bottle Washer

$300

Amazon

$300

Shop

Why it's worth it: “As a mom, time is the greatest commodity. Meet the Momcozy Bottle Washer, which will save you many crying sessions in the kitchen while washing pump and bottle parts in the dead of night. Is it expensive? Sure. But you can't put a price on sleep in those early days of motherhood.” —Silva

We've got a gift guide for all of your loved ones:

• Allure's Guide to the Very Best Beauty Gifts of 2026
• Beauty Gifts Under $25 That Look Way More Expensive
• The Teen in Your Life Will Stan These Gifts

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

The best wrinkle patches do more than just sit on your skin—they work to smooth, hydrate, and deliver potent skin-care ingredients exactly where you need them. Unlike traditional creams that can quickly evaporate or rub off, wrinkle patches create a sealed environment, allowing ingredients like retinol, peptides, and hyaluronic acid to penetrate deeper for maximum effectiveness. Some even use microneedle technology, with tiny dissolving darts that push actives beneath the skin’s surface for faster, longer-lasting results.

But do they work? “They can be a great addition to a skin-care routine and beneficial for certain patients,” says Alexandra Bowles, MD, a board-certified dermatologist in Cincinnati, who says patients ask her about them multiple times a week. Although they’re not a replacement for in-office treatment, “they can help smooth facial lines, especially sleep lines—those creases that form when your skin folds over itself while you sleep, often showing up on the forehead and cheeks of side and stomach sleepers,” she says.

Our Top Wrinkle Patches

• Best Overall: RoC Retinol Correxion Deep Wrinkle Targeted Patches, $30
• Best for Crow’s Feet: Peace Out Retinol 360° Eye Lift Patches, $29
• Best for Neck: Biodance Collagen Peptide Hydrogel Neck Patches for Neck Wrinkles, $18
• Best for Fast Results: Shiseido Benefiance WrinkleResist24 Pure Retinol Express Smoothing Eye Mask, $78

Frequently Asked QuestionsAccordionItemContainerButtonLargeChevron

• What is a wrinkle patch?
• Do wrinkle patches actually work?
• How long do the effects of wrinkle patches last?
• Are there any drawbacks to wrinkle patches?
• Meet the experts
• How we test and review products
• Our staff and testers

We asked the pros for the best wrinkle patches that make a difference—because they should do more than look cool in a selfie.

Best Overall: RoC Retinol Correxion Deep Wrinkle Targeted Patches

Save to wishlistSave to wishlist

RoC

Retinol Correxion Deep Wrinkle Targeted Patches

$30

Amazon

$30

Shop

Why it’s worth it: The RoC Retinol Correxion Deep Wrinkle Targeted Patches mean business—they’re infused with 80 self-melting micro-cones filled with retinol, one of the beauty industry’s gold-standard ingredients. “I love their fragrance-free, thoughtfully formulated blend of retinol and hyaluronic acid, which helps counteract the irritation often associated with retinol,” says Pooja Rambhia, MD, a board-certified dermatologist in New York City, who calls them her go-to patches for patients newly exploring wrinkle treatments. “While the results are subtle, consistent nightly use makes a noticeable difference, especially for early forehead lines and crow’s feet.” Plus, she says, she’s found that they tend to adhere to skin well but don’t pull on skin when you remove them, which her patients love.

More to know

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• Key ingredients: retinol, hyaluronic acid, peptides
• Fragrance-free: yes
• Quantity: 6 patches

Best for Crow’s Feet: Peace Out Retinol 360° Eye Lift Patches

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Peace Out

Retinol 360° Eye Lift Patches

$29

Amazon

$29

Shop

$29

Ulta Beauty

Why it’s worth it: We don't personally know anyone who wears eye masks out in public as celebrities do, but Peace Out's Retinol 360° Eye Lift Patches kind of make us want to. Unlike your typical undereye patches, these superhero mask-shaped treatments wrap around the eyes, covering the skin above, below, and at the outer corners, which is where crow's feet tend to show up. That extra coverage means you're treating more than just the usual undereye area.

The formula is just as thoughtful: Encapsulated retinol (which allows for more gradual and therefore gentler treatment) helps smooth fine lines and uneven texture, while a blend of peptides supports firmer-looking skin. Three forms of hyaluronic acid work together to draw in moisture and plump up the skin, making those little lines around your eyes look less noticeable. Allantoin also helps soothe the delicate eye area and offset any irritation retinol use might cause.

More to know

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• Key ingredients: encapsulated retinol, hyaluronic acid, peptides, allantoin
• Fragrance-free: yes
• Quantity: 5 pairs

Best for Neck: Biodance Collagen Peptide Hydrogel Neck Patches for Neck Wrinkles

Save to wishlistSave to wishlist

Biodance

Collagen Peptide Hydrogel Neck Patches for Neck Wrinkles

$18 $15 (17% off)

Amazon

Why it’s worth it: Whether you're dealing with tech neck from constantly looking down at your phone or creases that have become more noticeable with age (or both), Biodance’s Collagen Peptide Hydrogel Neck Patches are made to help. From the brand behind the viral hydrogel face masks, these oversized, curved patches cover most of your neck and have tiny grip dots to keep them in place, even as you turn your head. The hydrogel acts as a physical barrier to slow water loss, helping keep skin hydrated while smoothing the appearance of wrinkles.

As for what's inside, the K-beauty formula combines collagen (which, topically, works as a hydrator) and 10 peptides (including Matrixyl, which is known for stimulating collagen production) to help skin look plumper and firmer. There's also an EGF (epidermal growth factor) complex, a blend of ingredients designed to support the skin's natural renewal process and help improve skin laxity. You can leave the lightweight patch on for 20 to 30 minutes, during which it gradually turns transparent, or wear it overnight for a longer treatment. Either way, it's an easy way to give an often-overlooked area a little extra attention.

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• Key ingredients: collagen, peptides, Matrixyl, EFG complex
• Fragrance-free: yes
• Quantity: 4 patches

Best for Fast Results: Shiseido Benefiance WrinkleResist24 Pure Retinol Express Smoothing Eye Mask

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Shiseido

Benefiance WrinkleResist24 Pure Retinol Express Smoothing Eye Mask

$78

Amazon

$78

Nordstrom

$78

Ulta Beauty

Why it’s worth it: No wonder these snagged an Allure Best of Beauty Award: These Shiseido Benefiance WrinkleResist24 patches are thin and ultra-stretchy, yet are packed with cutting-edge Japanese micro-infusion tech and pure retinol to smooth and hydrate where you need it the most. “These have great ingredients for smoothing fine lines, reducing the appearance of crow’s feet, and hydration,” says Gabriella Vasile, MD, a double board-certified dermatologist based in Charleston and Mt. Pleasant, South Carolina. “Retinol is one of the most powerful and proven skin-care ingredients to reduce wrinkles by promoting skin turnover and collagen production, while hyaluronic acid acts by drawing in and holding water, which can contribute to skin plumpness.” (It’s the latter that delivers the faster results.) Plus, they’re individually wrapped to keep them fresh and ready.

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• Key ingredients: retinol, hyaluronic acid, chlorella extract, mukurossi extract, gambir extract
• Fragrance-free: no
• Quantity: 12 pairs

Best for Puffy Eyes: PCA Skin Hyaluronic Acid Microneedle Eye Patches

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PCA Skin

Hyaluronic Acid Microneedle Eye Patches

$100

Nordstrom

$100

Dermstore

Why it’s worth it: Packed with 1,254 self-dissolving microneedles infused with 50 milligrams of hyaluronic acid (which is specifically designed to penetrate the skin on multiple levels), the PCA Skin Hyaluronic Acid Microneedle Eye Patches create invisible micropores to help your skin drink up all the hydration that helps blur out wrinkles.

“I love that these have hyaluronic acid microneedles—it’s like a hydration boost that also smooths fine lines and wrinkles while helping all the good ingredients sink in even deeper,” says Michelle Henry, MD, a board-certified dermatologist in New York City, who uses them herself. (She wears them overnight.) Thanks to daisy flower and hawkweed extract, “they help with my dark circles and fine lines, plus the peptides keep them super gentle on my skin with zero irritation,” she says, noting that they’re also fragrance-free and great for all skin types.

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• Key ingredients: daisy flower extract, copper, hyaluronic acid, hawkweed extract
• Fragrance-free: yes
• Quantity: 4 pairs

Best Overnight: 111Skin ​​Wrinkle Erasing Retinol Patches

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111Skin

Wrinkle Erasing Retinol Patches

$190

Nordstrom

$190

Dermstore

$190

Shop

Why it’s worth it: You can mix and match the shapes of the 111Skin ​​Wrinkle Erasing Retinol Patches to target specific areas of your face—think frown lines, crow’s feet, and smile lines—so you get precision treatment exactly where you need it. “These patches cover all the bases with retinol to treat, hyaluronic acid to plump, and multiple antioxidants to benefit the skin as well,” says Brooke Jeffy, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in Scottsdale, Arizona. “They utilize a unique delivery system to ensure actives penetrate deeper into the skin.” The 0.35 mm microcones dissolve on contact, while ascorbyl glucoside (a brightening vitamin C derivative) does its glow-boosting thing.

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• Key ingredients: retinol, hyaluronic acid, peptide complex, ascorbyl glucoside
• Fragrance-free: yes
• Quantity: 3 sets

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a wrinkle patch?

A wrinkle patch is a targeted treatment for fine lines and wrinkles, but not all patches are created equal. Unlike face tapes, which temporarily smooth skin by holding it in place, true wrinkle patches pack a punch with active ingredients like retinol, peptides, and hyaluronic acid to improve skin over time.

"On top of infusing skin with wrinkle-smoothing ingredients, they do more—they also help limit skin movement and lock in moisture, especially if worn overnight. They’re incredibly convenient and mess-free, which makes them a perfect travel must-have,” says Dr. Vasile. Some use dissolving microneedles to deliver ingredients deep into the skin, while others act like moisture-locking shields to boost hydration and repair.

Do wrinkle patches actually work?

Wrinkle patches work—but how well they work depends on the type. Hydrogel or adhesive patches create a sealing effect, allowing actives to work more effectively while also preventing moisture loss. “I always look for wrinkle patches that offer more than just physical tension—they need active ingredients like retinol, peptides, and hyaluronic acid that deliver real skin benefits. I love that they target the deeper layers of the skin, providing a long-term solution rather than just a quick fix,” says Kristina Collins, MD, a double board-certified dermatologist based in Austin.

Meanwhile, microneedle patches take it further: “Microdart technology creates microscopic pathways into the top layers of the skin, thereby potentially enhancing ingredient delivery compared to traditional topical application,” says Dr. Rambhia. While they won’t replace in-office treatments, they can temporarily plump fine lines, boost hydration, and improve skin texture with consistent use. “Unlike Botox, which relaxes wrinkle-causing muscles, patches—like most skin care—can’t completely prevent deeper lines from forming,” says Dr. Bowles.

How long do the effects of wrinkle patches last?

Don't expect wrinkle patches to deliver lasting results. "On average, the effects may last a few hours after removal," says Dawn Queen, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in New York City. She says that patches temporarily smooth skin by limiting facial movement, which can make fine lines and wrinkles look less noticeable. However, “they don't address the underlying causes of wrinkles, such as collagen loss, repetitive facial expressions, and sun damage," she says. In other words, they're a nice quick fix, but not a replacement for a long-term skin-care routine.

Are there any drawbacks to wrinkle patches?

While wrinkle patches can be an effective part of a skin-care routine, they have limitations. For one, since they’re single-use products, the cost can add up. Plus, people with sensitive skin may experience irritation or adhesive sensitivity, especially with extended use or if they have micro-darts, according to Dr. Rambhia. As mentioned, “the results are also temporary—which means consistent use is necessary for maintenance,” she says. And finally, “for patches with active ingredients, there's also the challenge of ingredient stability and ensuring adequate concentration for efficacy, which isn't always guaranteed across brands,” she says.

Meet the experts

• Alexandra Bowles, a board-certified dermatologist at MONA Dermatology in Cincinnati
• Kristina Collins, MD, a double board-certified dermatologist based in Austin
• Michelle Henry, MD, a board-certified dermatologist at Skin & Aesthetic Surgery based in New York City
• Brooke Jeffy, MD, a board-certified dermatologist and founder of BTWN based in Scottsdale, Arizona
• Dawn Queen, MD, a board-certified dermatologist at Park Ave Derm based in New York City
• Pooja Rambhia, MD, a board-certified dermatologist at UnionDerm based in New York City
• Gabriella Vasile, MD, a double board-certified dermatologist and founder of Réforme Dermatology and Aesthetics based in Charleston and Mt. Pleasant, South Carolina

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 wrinkle patches, 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.

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The inaugural season of Allure Perspectives will explore one of the most controversial and medically researched parts of a woman’s body: breasts. Through expert interviews, personal stories, and historical context, the podcast series, hosted by editor in chief Jessica Cruel, will examine how breasts intersect with beauty, health, identity, sexuality, and culture.

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On October 28, Jennifer Lawrence announced that she was officially joining the celebrity beauty brand club by launching Mes°, a “biodesigned” (not sure what that means? Neither are we!) hair-care line pronounced “mess.” Mes° debuted with three products: the Multitask Repair Mask, a reparative mask you apply on dry hair; the Off-Duty Restyling Serum, a bi-phase styling serum; and the Good Roots Volume Mist, a volumizing product that doubles as a scalp treatment.

Each product was made to simplify our hair routines by having a dual purpose: to style, yes, but also improve hair health over time. On the brand’s website, the first words you see underneath a dancing JLaw are “Less time fixing your hair, more time living.” Lawrence’s laid-back, relatable personality is infused into the ethos of the brand, but all the good vibes in the world can’t make great beauty products.

Luckily, Lawrence brought in formulation pros for that part. She partnered with Arcaea, a biology-focused beauty company founded by chemical bioengineer Jasmina Aganovic, to co-create the brand. With Aganovic as CEO, the company launched Future Society, a fragrance brand that uses biotechnology to revive scents from extinct flowers. The combination of Lawrence’s huge fanbase and Aganovic’s background as a scientist sure made it seem like this brand would be a hit.

Instead, the internet wasn’t exactly impressed. The brand announcement was immediately followed by backlash, with people questioning the intention behind Lawrence’s new venture. In September, when the actor joined Instagram seemingly out of the blue (and in her signature, self-deprecating way), fans were thrilled. Now, that move is being framed as calculated and inauthentic—a way of using social media to promote the brand. Commenters also started focusing on the actor’s looks, saying they didn’t recognize her “new” face and inciting a debate on whether or not she had an upper blepharoplasty.

Some were also quick to draw a comparison between Mes° and another hair-care brand, Messy, which Drybar cofounder Alli Webb launched last year. While there are few similarities to be found in the brands' packaging and products, some commentators are claiming the name and message are too close for comfort. In an Instagram video, Webb claimed to see parallels between the two brands’ ethos of being imperfect and, obviously, messy. “I have been literally inundated with DMs and messages from friends and you guys being upset on my behalf about this new hair-care brand that recently launched called Mes°,” she says.

Drama aside, celebrity beauty brands can be great—Rhode, Rare Beauty, and Fenty Beauty are huge successes and count many Allure staffers as fans, and Mes°’s mission seems promising. But this year has already seen the closing of Scarlett Johansson and Gwen Stefani’s lines, and plenty of others have long been dead and gone (remember Jessica Simpson’s line of edible cosmetics?). Do we really need another one?

For all the chatter around Lawrence’s new hair-care line, there are very few actual reviews. I’m all for giving things a chance, so I asked my colleagues to test-drive Mes° and give us their honest thoughts. Let’s have the products (and our team) speak for themselves, shall we?

Multitask Repair Mask, $52

What it is: A reparative hair mask meant to be applied to dry hair and left in for a minimum of five minutes. It can also be used as a styling product for a wet look or a slicked-back style. The instructions are to apply before washday—the brand does not mention whether or not this replaces conditioner or adds an extra step.

Sarah Kinonen, beauty director: “I have a very low-maintenance hair-care routine, especially for someone with very blonde highlights. I usually wash it once or twice a week, spritz in a leave-in conditioner post-shower, and then let it air-dry. I don’t use styling products or hot tools, except when someone else is using them on me. When I wash my hair, I use a mask (yes, even on my fine hair) as opposed to a conditioner, so I figured the Multitask Repair Mask would fit right in. That is, until I realized this mask was meant to be applied to dry hair. The idea of slopping goop onto dry hair before washing has never appealed to me. Nevertheless, I followed what little instructions are on the refillable container (which I thought arrived accidentally empty in my PR mailer, but that’s another story), raked and slicked the Elmer’s Glue-like mask into my very dirty roots and ends (it had been a full week since my last washday), and let it sit for about five minutes.

"I hopped into the shower, rinsed it out (it felt like it slid right off), double-shampooed as I normally would, then, instead of raking in my usual hair mask, I quickly just conditioned my hair. Out of the shower, I spritzed in my go-to leave-in (I love the Best of Beauty-winning Davines Love Smoothing Lightweight Milk), brushed out any tangles, and went to bed with a wet head (I usually do this). In the morning, I woke up with super-soft hair (maybe slightly softer than normal) that barely needed to be tamed with a comb.

"The verdict: The mask is nice! But I’m not sure if I’d ever replace it with my current hair masks. I like the idea of doing my hair-washing and -masking all at once in the shower, so having to apply it to dry hair, find something to do, and then wash it out doesn’t really align with my otherwise simple routine. And while I know the mask can also be used as a styler to create a wet look, I’m going to be honest: You will never catch me doing that.”

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Kassidy Silva, social director: “As a mom, I'm always on the hunt for products that are going to cut down the time of my beauty routine, so my hopes were high when trying the Multitask Hair Mask. I used a generous handful on my dry hair, coating my full head. The mask has a bit of a fishy, plastic smell that took me off-guard at first sniff, but it didn't linger. While the mask's texture was similar to a watery goo, once applied, it appears like a heavy shine oil rather than leaving a cast in my hair. Once my hair was fully coated, I threw it up in a clip while anxiously waiting for election results to come in.

"While I like the idea of cutting time in the shower and not having to get my hair wet before applying, this is not a product I would use to try to style or pull off any variety of a wet hair look. For me, it's strictly for wearing around the house while doing chores before hopping in the shower.

"Performance-wise, it left my hair feeling soft and silky, but didn't do as much heavy lifting as I would like in a mask. I use hot tools daily, so I am constantly trying to combat potential damage to my hair. This mask would fall into the category of a mini refresh for me. I could see myself taking it on a long vacation, but not swapping out my weekly essentials."

Previous SlideArrowNext SlideArrowGood Roots Volume Mist, $34

What it is: A volumizing spray that simultaneously lifts hair at the roots while reducing scalp oil. It can be used on dry hair for a refresh or on damp hair before blow-drying.

Elizabeth Gulino, senior staff writer: “I am, in fact, the target audience for JLaw’s hair line—the long undone waves photographed in her New York City pap walks are exactly what I want my hair to look like on a daily basis. The first product I tried was the Good Roots Volume Mist, which I spritzed on in the middle of the workday on dry, day-four hair. According to the instructions, it can be used between washes to reduce scalp oil (something I honestly don’t experience) and add some lift to flattened-out hair. After spraying it onto my roots, my scalp stayed pretty damp for almost half an hour—and it looked like it, too. I either sprayed too much of the stuff, or this is not the product for me. After an hour or so, the dampness subsided, and it did give my roots a little lift. My hair also had a grippier texture; when I pushed it up or tried to style it a certain way, it stayed put.

"That night, I washed my hair and sprayed the mist onto my damp roots before I blow-dried it. This method gives the best results, according to the brand’s website, and that’s something I can vouch for firsthand. My hair wasn’t oily or wet like when I tried it earlier in the day, and it gave my hair some volume without weighing it down. I’d definitely try this product again on damp hair.

"For one last hurrah, I used Good Roots Volume Mist for a third time on dry, second-day hair, and was pleased with the results. While, yes, it still made my hair feel damp for around 15 minutes, it did give my roots more grit and volume than before. I don't think this product will replace a dry shampoo since it didn't necessarily make my hair feel clean when my hair was at its dirtiest on day four. The few spritzes I worked into my scalp then made my hair look and feel even dirtier. It's not my favorite product, but it did give a decent zhuzh to limp roots."

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Silva: “With a fluffy bob, I spend a ton of time every morning giving my hair a refresh to get that volume back in from overnight. My hair is also naturally quite flat, so I need all the help I can get.

"On the volume front, the Good Roots Volume Mist was a win: I liked how little product I needed to use to get a boost and was impressed with how long my style lasted. I applied it directly onto dry hair across four sections, massaging it into my roots, then letting it fully dry. I had good volume from the product before I styled my hair. After I went in with a thermal round brush, it helped hold those top pieces that I'm always fighting to keep lifted. However, I found that it added a gritty texture and got a little closer to the greasy side of shiny than I wanted.”

Off-Duty Restyling Serum, $44

What it is: A smoothing product meant to be used on dry, dirty hair to smooth flyaways, reshape, and restyle.

Alessandra Foresto, managing editor: "I really wanted to like the Off-Duty Styling Serum. The idea of having a serum that refreshes your hair on day two or three seems like a lifesaver for someone like me who heat-styles their hair pretty often, but it just didn’t live up to my expectations. I used it on wet hair right out of the shower because it claims to detangle and also protect from heat. My hair was definitely not as soft as it usually is after I apply my regular favorite detangler. It was a little harder to brush through knots and tangles right out of the shower. The serum was also sticky on my hair and hands, and it felt like it left a residue.

"Lawrence says this serum tames little frizzy floofs, but my experience was that the serum left my hair frizzier than normal. My hair was pretty frizzy after a rough blowout, which is not normally the case. The next day, my hair was still frizzy, even though I slept with it in a bun, which normally smooths things out a bit. I gave it a try again, and my experience was the same. It didn’t really feel like it tamed any of the floofs, and the serum felt pretty sticky. My hair was also not as soft or detangled as it is with my usual products.

"I gave it yet another try after curling my hair with a flat iron, and it didn’t really feel like it did anything, although my hair is shiny. The smell is nice and light, and I really wanted to like the product, but it just really didn’t work for me."

Gulino: “I came into the office in the morning after using the Good Roots Volume Mist on my damp hair and saw the Off-Duty Restyling Serum on my colleague's desk. I snagged the sculptural bottle and worked two drops into my palms before running them through my hair. I liked this product! It subtly tamed my flyaways and, as Lawrence calls it, my ‘floofs.’ The next day, I tried it again at the office using a few more drops. I’d continue to use this. It may work for me because I have thick, dry hair. I've officially stolen this from my coworker.”

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The winter blues are real (shorter days, colder temps), so we like to maximize our time spent indoors by indulging in more self-care. The best brightening body washes, for example, help us bring back our glow, even on the dreariest January day. Anyone who feels their skin looks lackluster, dry, and dull will benefit from using a brightening body wash, but exfoliating, resurfacing formulas are particularly useful for people with rough, bumpy skin; dry elbows, knees, and hands; razor bumps or acne marks, says Alicia Zalka, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in western Connecticut.

Our Top Brightening Body Washes

• Best Gel Overall: Iota Brightening Body Wash, $23
• Best Oil Overall: Dove Beauty Serum + Radiance Oil Body Wash, $13
• Best Bar Overall: Kitsch Kojic Acid Brightening Body Wash Bar, $12
• Best for Body Acne: CeraVe SA Body Wash for Rough and Bumpy Skin, $14

Frequently Asked Questions

• Does brightening body wash work?
• What are the best body wash ingredients to address hyperpigmentation?
• Meet the experts
• How we test and review products
• Our staff and testers

Now, we know what you’re thinking: Don’t these brightening formulas just go straight down the shower drain? Technically, yes, they do, but that doesn’t mean they don’t leave a lasting nourishing and exfoliating impact. It’s all about using gentle, thoughtfully formulated cleansers made with the right ingredients instead of harsh soaps or alkaline body wash; Dr. Zalka compares it to doing the laundry. “You use gentle detergent for some fabrics and bleach for others,” she says. “These get washed down the drain, but while they are in contact with the clothing fabric, they have their effect.”

Sound like you? It might be time to swap your shower gel for the best brightening body washes, which we’ve rounded up below.

Best Gel Overall: Iota Brightening Body Wash

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Iota

Brightening Body Wash

$23

Nordstrom

$23

Shop

$23

Ulta Beauty

Why it's worth it: With a sleek, minimalist bottle that wouldn’t look out of place at a fancy boutique hotel and a sparklingly cheerful, but still elevated mandarin orange fragrance, Iota’s Brightening Body Wash turns a daily chore into an entire experience. The combination of citrus fragrance and airy, fluffy bubbles lifts your spirits, and the blend of brightening ingredients, including powerhouse vitamin C, smooths and evens skin. The winter blahs don’t stand a chance.

Tester feedback from senior news editor James Manso

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“I've always been skeptical of active ingredients in cleansers and body washes because, after all, how well does an ingredient work when you wash it off right away? But in the case of Iota's Brightening Body Wash, I frankly don't care. The experience of this product is so lovely, from its rich gel texture to the perfect lather. Sure, the callouts are impressive: it has niacinamide, vitamin C from pineapple and yuzu, and pre- and postbiotics; but the bergamot the brand sources from Calabria, Italy is what does it for me; I find the fresh, citrusy zing of the scent utterly irresistible.” —James Manso, senior news editor

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Key ingredients: vitamin C, niacinamide
Fragrance-free: no
Scents available: Mandarin Rind + Cedar Atlas, Oiishi Berry (limited-edition)

Best Oil Overall: Dove Beauty Serum + Radiance Oil Body Wash

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Dove

Beauty Serum + Radiance Oil Body Wash

$13

Amazon

Why it's worth it: Allure contributor Kara McGrath isn’t the only one who loves this nourishing, silky oil wash; multiple editors crowned this formula with a 2026 Best of Beauty Award for Best Oil Body Wash. The glow factor comes from a whopping 50% glycerin, which deeply nourishes thirsty skin and intensely softens without feeling sticky, greasy, or heavy—perfect for everyday use or prepping for a big night out when you want your limbs to really shine. And yes, that silky, supple radiance sticks around long after you hang up your bath towel.

Tester feedback from contributor Kara McGrath

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“I find that some oil-based cleansers do the nourishing oil part well but can fall a bit short when it comes to fully cleansing my skin. This $13 option from Dove hits all its marks: It offers the silky smooth, moisturizing effect I want from an oil, but rinses off just as completely as a more traditional body wash. My skin truly does glow after I step out of the shower, even before I apply any body lotion.” —Kara McGrath, contributor

Tester feedback from senior beauty editor Jesa Marie Calaor

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"Dove Serum+ Radiance Oil Body Wash starts as a lightweight oil and turns into a milky foam that cleanses and leaves my skin noticeably softer. It helps with glide as I shave, has a warm scent that lingers long after I’m done showering, and makes the experience of showering that much more indulgent. Bonus: Despite being so emollient, it still easily washes clean off my shower floor, never leaving it slick and greasy." —Jesa Marie Calaor, senior beauty editor

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Key ingredients: glycerin, monoi oil, jojoba oil
Fragrance-free: no
Scent notes: monoi flower

Best Bar Overall: Kitsch Kojic Acid Brightening Body Wash Bar

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Kitsch

Kojic Acid Brightening Body Wash Bar

$12

Amazon

$12

Shop

$12

Ulta Beauty

Why it's worth it: Today’s bar soaps have the range! They can do it all, including brightening things up where your bod is concerned. Kitsch’s face and body bar is formulated with kojic acid and turmeric, a clever combo that works in tandem to help fade hyperpigmentation and banish uneven tone. Don’t worry about missing the foamy lather from your favorite shower gel, either; the Kojic Acid Brightening Body Wash Bar provides all the suds and bubbles you want as it cleanses, with hyaluronic acid and shea butter helping to leave skin feeling soft and supple. It’s also a great option for anyone who wants to reduce their plastic usage. (The paper packaging the soap bar comes in is recyclable.)

Tester feedback from contributor Kara Nesvig

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“I love shower gel, but there’s something about bar soap that feels so classic to me; my husband, son, and I all use bar soap on the regular. I’ve added this mustard-yellow bar into the rotation to help fade marks left behind from my keratosis pilaris, random body breakouts, and sun spots. The soap is generously sized and lathers up just as well as any liquid formula. Plus, I love the color! It looks great in my ‘60s-tile shower, and the glowing skin isn’t to be ignored, either.” —Kara Nesvig, contributor

More to know

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Key ingredients: kojic acid, turmeric, hyaluronic acid, shea butter
Fragrance-free: no
Scent notes: sugared yuzu, pear
Other exfoliating formulas: Shea Butter Exfoliating Body Wash, Glycolic Acid Resurfacing Face and Body Wash, and Charcoal Detoxifying Solid Body Wash

Best for Bumpy Skin: Naturium The Smoother Glycolic Acid Exfoliating Body Wash

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Naturium

The Smoother Glycolic Acid Exfoliating Body Wash

$17

Amazon

$17

Shop

$17

Ulta Beauty

Why it's worth it: Naturium has only been on the market for a few short years, but in that time, it’s become a truly beloved body-care brand for its high-quality formulas at budget-friendly prices. Naturium’s smoothing exfoliating body wash is formulated with a group of AHAs (alpha hydroxy acids)—including 5% glycolic acid, which has smaller molecules than its AHA peers that penetrate more deeply into the skin—to exfoliate dead, dry skin cells and bumpy, rough texture like keratosis pilaris without stripping or stressing skin. “I like this option for dull skin and uneven texture, particularly on the arms and legs,” says Jenna Queller, MD, a board-certified dermatologist in Florida. “It can be especially helpful for rough, bumpy skin, although persistent dark spots typically require additional treatment.” Add The Smoother Glycolic Acid Exfoliating Body Wash to your weekly everything shower and bask in your newfound glow.

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Key ingredients: 5% glycolic acid, lactic acid, pyruvic acid, tartaric acid
Fragrance-free: yes

Best for Body Acne: CeraVe SA Body Wash for Rough and Bumpy Skin

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CeraVe

SA Body Wash for Rough and Bumpy Skin

$14

Amazon

$14

Dermstore

Why it's worth it: Body acne happens to the best of us, but the evidence of those chest and back breakouts doesn’t have to stick around forever. CeraVe’s SA Body Wash for Rough and Bumpy Skin is formulated with one of the biggest acne fighters, salicylic acid, to decongest pores, exfoliate dead skin cells, and help prevent future breakouts, leaving your complexion looking and feeling clearer, smoother, and brighter over time. “Salicylic acid helps exfoliate dead skin cells and improve the appearance of rough, bumpy texture,” explains Dr. Queller. And while you may think such powerful ingredients will put your skin through the wringer as they banish bacne and buttne, worry not: Nourishing, hydrating ceramides keep stressed, breakout-prone skin calm and balanced. Dr. Zalka says she’s recommended this body wash “innumerable times,” especially for patients with post-acne pigmentation. “The salicylic acid ingredient targets acne while the ceramides help maintain the skin barrier.”

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Key ingredients: salicylic acid, ceramides
Fragrance-free: yes

Best Scents: Nécessaire The Body Wash in Hinoki

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Nécessaire

The Body Wash in Hinoki

$28

Amazon

$28

Nordstrom

$28

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Why it's worth it: AHAs, BHAs, PHA—the gang’s all here in this dreamily scented Nécessaire The Body Wash in Hinoki, which blends the exfoliating acids with glycerin and niacinamide to make skin feel extra soft and smooth without throwing your pH out of balance. Though the formula sounds clinical, the experience is anything but. The woody scent, a blend of cedar, vetiver, citrus, and basil, is an herbal-inspired wake-up call, turning your morning shower or evening wind-down routine into a sensorial treat. (There’s a reason commerce market editor Sarah Hoffmann calls herself a “certified Hinoki Head™” below.)

Tester feedback from commerce market editor Sarah Hoffmann

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“I’m a certified Hinoki Head™. As evidenced by my well-loved bottle, I adore it, but I'd still be hoarding these body washes even if they hadn't added my favorite woody, slightly spicy fragrance to it. It forms a nice, medium lather, and the trio of exfoliating acids—AHA, BHA, and PHA—smooth out rough patches of skin—has definitely made a difference in the KP on my upper arms. I am not an early riser at all, but having my morning shower smell like a lush, tree-lined spa makes waking up with my alarm a little easier.” —Sarah Hoffmann, commerce market editor

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Key ingredients: lactic acid, glycolic acid, mandelic acid, salicylic acid, niacinamide
Fragrance-free: no
Scents available: Hinoki, Santal, Olibanum, Eucalyptus (and Fragrance-Free)

Best Physical Scrub: Goop Microderm Instant Glow Body Polish

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Goop

Microderm Instant Glow Body Polish

$48

Amazon

$48

Nordstrom

$48

Dermstore

Why it's worth it: There are two types of exfoliants: chemical exfoliants, like AHAs, and physical exfoliants, like scrubs. The latter gives you that “instant refresh” feeling, like you’ve exfoliated away all the dullness and emerged from the shower newly reborn with glowing skin. The rough, even painful chunky exfoliants are a thing of the past today; Goop’s body polish uses quartz powder to smooth rough spots without feeling like you’re scraping sandpaper across your limbs—Dr. Zalka refers to it as “just the right amount of grit”—while hibiscus flower aids in chemical exfoliation. Rounding out the formula is kakadu plum seed oil, rich in vitamin C, to brighten overall tone. Even if you don’t live in a Montecito paradise like Goop founder Gwyneth Paltrow, the scrub’s fresh green scent will make you feel like you’re gallivanting through her garden.

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Key ingredients: quartz powder, kakadu plum seed oil, hibiscus flower acid
Fragrance-free: no
Scent notes: juniper, fir needle, vetiver, and oakmoss

Best Scented: Sol de Janeiro Bom Dia Bright Body Wash

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Sol de Janeiro

Bom Dia Bright Body Wash

$26

Amazon

$26

Shop

$26

Ulta Beauty

Why it's worth it: When you think about body care and fragrance line Sol de Janeiro, you probably think of the beloved Bum Bum Cream and body sprays. But you shouldn’t ignore the Bom Dia Bright Body Wash, which comes in a coral bottle to invite a bit of Brazil to your bathroom. Inside is a clarifying, exfoliating combo of fruit AHAs (papaya, mango, banana, oh my) and salicylic acid to send those dead skin cells down the drain and get your body ready for a beach vacation or night out dancing in your little black dress. And since this is a Sol de Janeiro product, we’ve gotta talk about the fragrance: The Cheirosa 40 scent is a luxurious medley of juicy plum, sensuous jasmine, and creamy orchid, vanilla, and musk. It smells so good, you won’t want to get out of the shower.

Tester feedback from contributing commerce writer Christa Joanna Lee

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“I'm already a fan of Sol de Janeiro's body lotion for how much it's helped with my rough, KP-prone arms and dry legs, so I was excited to try the body wash. Even without sulfates, it works up a surprisingly rich, creamy lather, and I like using it with a loofah for a little extra physical exfoliation on top of the chemical exfoliation in the formula. I've noticed my arms feel smoother after using it, and the bumps around my hair follicles seem less noticeable, too. My skin is sensitive, reactive, and allergy-prone, but surprisingly, fragrance doesn't usually bother it, so scented body products are one area where I can have a little fun. And I love the bright, fruity scent of this one (it's a nice pick-me-up in the mornings!).”—Christa Joanna Lee, contributing commerce writer

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Key ingredients: AHAs, vegan lactic acid, salicylic acid
Fragrance-free: no
Scent notes: Cheirosa 40 (plum, jasmine, orchid, vanilla, musk)

Frequently Asked Questions

Does brightening body wash work?

Yes, brightening body wash is effective, says Dr. Zalka. They “help dislodge and slough off the topmost layer of skin cells,” to reveal skin that feels smoother, with a more reflective surface, “giving the appearance and feel of a more polished skin surface,” she adds. As always, don’t forget to apply your favorite body lotion post-exfoliation to replenish any lost moisture and keep skin feeling comfortable.

What are the best body wash ingredients to address hyperpigmentation?

If you’re dealing with post-acne scars, sun spots, or a lingering mark from an eczema flare, a brightening body wash can help fade some of that discoloration and brighten skin. Look for AHAs like glycolic or lactic acid to gently exfoliate, speed cell turnover, and fade dark spots, Dr. Zalka says. Beta hydroxy acids, like salicylic acid, help exfoliate by targeting pores. Niacinamide can also be helpful, she notes, as it reduces inflammation. Radiant glow, straight ahead!

Meet the experts

• Alicia Zalka, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in western Connecticut and associate clinical professor of dermatology at Yale University
• Jenna Queller, MD, a board-certified dermatologist in Boca Raton, Florida

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 brightening body washes, 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 and cosmetic chemists. 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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The skin-care crowd knows all about Manuka honey’s benefits: It can help keep blemish-causing bacteria in check, it's been known to calm irritated skin, and it's even a natural humectant. But let’s not overlook one of its underrated perks: nail color inspo. Demi Lovato has clearly figured that out, and her latest manicure combines the sweet shade with cat-eye enchantment.

Lovato’s go-to nail artist, Natalie Minerva, shared photos and a video clip of the singer’s new set on Instagram, giving us an up-close look at the delicious design. The medium-length nails are filed into a soft oval shape and coated in a rich, warm brown that calls to mind the deepest, most decadent honey.

But this isn't just a glossy brown fall manicure. Each nail has a glowing, golden-amber reflect that shifts and catches the light, surrounded by darker caramel tones. That magnetic cat-eye shimmer makes it look like honey is trapped just beneath the surface.

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Of course, cat-eye nails are hardly a new discovery; they’ve been trending for so long now that it officially qualifies as a modern nail classic. And this isn’t the first time Lovato has turned to Minerva for the velvety, almost cosmic effect. Earlier this year, Minerva created a pale mauve cat-eye manicure for her.

This latest take, however, is considerably warmer and more saturated, but it proves the same point: Cat-eye nails don't have to be dramatic to be captivating. It's a little moodier than your average warm-toned autumn mani, a little bolder than “neutral,” and a gorgeous reminder that cat-eye nails can be as much about the color as the effect. It may even be enough to make you want to bring a literal jar of honey to your next nail appointment.