From fine strands to curls and color-treated hair, these moisturizing shampoos are designed to smooth frizz, support shine, and help hair handle humidity.
The post 10 Best Shampoos for Frizzy Hair, According to Editors and Stylists appeared first on toppoptoday.com.
]]>Frizz usually starts long before styling products enter the picture, which is why the right shampoo can make a noticeable difference. According to the report, the best formulas clean the hair without removing the natural oils that help keep the cuticle smooth. Ingredients such as ceramides, humectants, and nourishing oils are highlighted for helping lock in moisture and reduce the puffed-up effect that humidity can cause.
The article notes that the best pick depends on hair type. Fine hair generally needs lightweight hydration that won’t flatten volume, while curly hair often needs richer moisture because scalp oils have a harder time moving from roots to ends. Color-treated hair can also benefit from shampoos that help keep the cuticle sealed, which supports vibrancy while keeping frizz in check.
Among the top recommendations is Living Proof No Frizz Shampoo, named best overall and praised for smoothing and humidity resistance without stripping moisture. The updated formula uses the brand’s Sili-Clone HairTech along with gentle sulfate-free cleansers and conditioning agents like hydrolyzed jojoba esters and sunflower-derived ingredients. For curls, Curlsmith Frizz Control Shampoo stands out with coconut butter, argan oil, blackcurrant seed oil, and squalane, all chosen to support hydration, shine, and easier detangling. The report also spotlights Kérastase Gloss Absolu Shampoo for fine hair, Amika Forget Frizz Anti-Frizz Shampoo for thick hair, and K18 Damage Shield PH Protective Shampoo for damaged hair.
Across the list, the common thread is moisture management: shampoos that cleanse effectively while helping hair stay soft, smooth, and less reactive to humidity. The editors and testers behind the roundup say these formulas are the ones they rely on for more manageable hair and a shinier finish.
Source: allure.com
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Nicole Kidman reflects on the beauty lessons, skincare habits, and creative choices that help her feel most like herself.
The post Nicole Kidman on Beauty, Makeup, and the Freedom to Look Like Herself appeared first on toppoptoday.com.
]]>Nicole Kidman has spent decades transforming herself for the screen, but when it comes to her own appearance, she says the goal is much simpler: to feel comfortable and free. According to the report, the actor wants to walk a red carpet feeling like herself, not boxed in by the pressure of looking a certain way. That confidence, she says, has come more fully with age.
Kidman also looked back on the mixed messages she heard as a teenager, when she began modeling at 14 and 15 while also pursuing acting. At the time, people told her she would be beautiful when she grew up, a comment that left her questioning what she was supposed to think about her appearance. She described herself then as awkward and tall, with long limbs and hair she wished were straight and blonde. Those early insecurities did not stop her career, and she now sees her features differently, saying her coloring and facial structure make it easier for her to change her look.
That flexibility has helped shape both her work and her beauty routine. Kidman said she loves building characters through makeup, costumes, hair, and even the way she moves, and she has no interest in playing herself on camera. She also noted that movement coaches are becoming important again in film, which she welcomes. Off camera, she recently added dermaplaning to her skincare routine and says it helps her moisturizer and serums go on more smoothly while giving her skin a natural exfoliation.
The conversation also touched on her busy year, which includes the new season of Lioness, the upcoming sequel to Practical Magic, and her work on a Clé de Peau Beauté campaign titled The Many Sides of Radiance. Beyond beauty, Kidman mentioned watching a Rafael Nadal documentary series and reading books by Arundhati Roy and Elizabeth Strout, a mix she described as part of her own cultural taste.
Source: allure.com
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Hailey Bieber has been repeatedly styling a nostalgic zig-zag headband, giving the early-2000s accessory a fresh beauty moment.
The post Hailey Bieber Is Making the Y2K Zig-Zag Headband Feel Cool Again appeared first on toppoptoday.com.
]]>Hailey Bieber is giving one of the most recognizable Y2K hair accessories a new spotlight. According to the report, the model and beauty entrepreneur has been seen several times wearing the plastic scalloped comb headband, a style also known as a zig-zag or shark tooth headband.
The accessory showed up more than once in a recent Instagram photo dump, where Bieber wore it in different settings. In one mirror selfie, the matte black headband kept her hair off her face while the rest of her hair stayed loose. In another image, taken during what looked like a workout run, she wore her hair in a bun, letting the headband serve a practical purpose. A third selfie paired the same piece with tiny sunglasses and wired earbuds, leaning even further into the early-2000s feel.
This is not the first time Bieber has leaned into the look. She recently appeared in a Miu Miu campaign wearing a similar accordion-style headband, suggesting the accessory is more than a one-time styling choice. The report notes that Miu Miu has played a major role in the ongoing return of Y2K-inspired fashion, making Bieber’s headband moment feel in step with a broader trend.
Once associated with butterfly clips, roll-on glitter, and old flip phones, the zig-zag headband is now being framed as surprisingly current again. If Bieber keeps wearing it, the report suggests, the style may be well on its way back into everyday rotation.
Source: allure.com
The post Hailey Bieber Is Making the Y2K Zig-Zag Headband Feel Cool Again appeared first on toppoptoday.com.
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From pressed powder to cream and newer hybrid textures, makeup artists explain how different blush formulas work and how to apply them for the finish you want.
The post A Guide to Every Major Blush Formula and How to Wear It appeared first on toppoptoday.com.
]]>Blush used to be a much simpler category, with pressed powder as the default option in most makeup bags. Today, the cheek-color aisle is far more crowded, offering powders in multiple finishes alongside creams, gels, stains, and unusual hybrid textures that bounce back when pressed. According to the report, that variety is exciting, but it can also make it harder to know which formula suits your routine and how to apply it well.
Makeup artists say there is no single best blush type. The right choice depends on the effect you want, whether that is a subtle flush or a more dramatic wash of color. Some formulas are easy to use and forgiving, while others require quicker blending or a bit more technique. To clarify the differences, artists broke down the major blush categories and shared how each one performs on the skin.
Pressed powder blush is described as the most adaptable format, with finishes that range from matte and satin to luminous and shimmer. It can be used on bare skin, over foundation, or on top of set makeup, as long as the base is not still wet. Artists note that it is easy to control, buildable, and beginner-friendly, with wear time that can last through much of the day. It can also help set cream or liquid blush underneath for longer-lasting color.
For application, the advice is to start with a small amount and add more only if needed. A fluffy blush brush is recommended, with color swept onto the apples of the cheeks and blended upward toward the temples for a lifted look. Some artists also like to add a touch across the bridge of the nose. Powder blush can also be layered over cream or liquid formulas once they have dried down, which can make the color appear more opaque.
Cream blush has become another favorite because it blends easily into the skin and can look fresh, dewy, or satin depending on the formula. Artists point out that many cream blushes include skin-care ingredients such as squalane and peptides, and they can be especially flattering on mature skin because they do not emphasize texture the way some matte powders can. The tradeoff is that creamy formulas may fade faster unless they are set with powder.
Application is flexible: fingertips, a damp sponge, a dense brush, or a stick applied directly to the face can all work. Some artists prefer fingertips because the warmth helps the product melt into skin and gives more control. Others recommend picking up product with a brush instead of swiping directly from the stick, especially when foundation is already in place, because it offers more precision and helps protect the base underneath. For a softer, more natural finish, one artist suggests trying the product under foundation.
Source: allure.com
The post A Guide to Every Major Blush Formula and How to Wear It appeared first on toppoptoday.com.
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BHA toners have evolved into gentler, more effective skincare staples that can help clear pores, smooth texture, and support breakout-prone skin.
The post 8 Best BHA Toners for Clearer, Smoother Skin in 2026 appeared first on toppoptoday.com.
]]>BHA toners have come a long way from the harsh, stingy formulas many people used to avoid. According to the report, today’s versions are designed to exfoliate, help decongest pores, and improve skin texture without leaving skin feeling stripped. Because BHA, or beta hydroxy acid, is oil-soluble, it can work its way into pores to clear away excess oil and buildup, making it especially useful for oily and breakout-prone skin. Still, the article notes that dry and sensitive skin types can also benefit when the formula is right.
The roundup highlights several standout options, starting with CosRx BHA Blackhead Power Liquid Treatment as the best overall pick. The K-beauty staple combines gentle BHAs with niacinamide and is praised for helping with blackheads, oil control, dullness, and smoother-looking skin. For combination skin, Paula’s Choice Skin Perfecting 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant is singled out as a widely loved formula that uses salicylic acid to clear pores and remove dead skin buildup, while green tea helps calm visible redness and irritation. The report also notes that this lightweight option keeps things simple with just nine ingredients, which may appeal to sensitive or reactive skin.
Other top picks include Farmacy 2% BHA Pore Cleaning Toner for sensitive skin and Glow Recipe Watermelon Glow PHA + BHA Pore-Tight Toner for large pores. The article says the best BHA toners can help reduce the appearance of blackheads, make pores look smaller, and improve overall tone and texture over time. Some also include soothing or hydrating ingredients, which reflects how toner has shifted from being a throwaway step to a more essential part of a skincare routine. The piece also references common questions around daily use, ingredient pairings, and ideal BHA percentages, underscoring how much interest there is in finding the right toner for different skin needs.
Source: allure.com
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Ulta Beauty’s annual National Lipstick Week event is offering up to 40% off lipsticks, glosses, oils, liners, and stains from brands including MAC, Clinique, Nyx Professional Makeup, Charlotte Tilbury, and more.
The post Ulta’s National Lipstick Week Sale Is Packed With Lip Color Deals Beauty Fans Will Want to See appeared first on toppoptoday.com.
]]>Ulta Beauty’s National Lipstick Week sale is back, and for beauty shoppers looking to update their lip routine, it arrives with a wide range of discounts. Running from July 26 through August 1, the event includes up to 40% off hundreds of lip products from popular names such as MAC, Clinique, Nyx Professional Makeup, Charlotte Tilbury, Lancôme, Nars, and others.
Despite the name, the sale goes far beyond classic lipstick. Shoppers can find markdowns on lip glosses, lip oils, stains, liners, and other lip-focused formulas, making it a broad opportunity to stock up on everyday staples or try something new. According to the report, several editor-approved picks stand out for their texture, wear, and ease of use.
Among the highlights is MAC’s MACximal Silky Matte Lipstick, which is being offered at 40% off and is described as a more comfortable take on matte color, with a creamy feel supported by coconut oil, shea butter, and cocoa butter. Clinique’s Almost Lipstick, also discounted by 40%, is noted for its sheer, buildable color and the cult-favorite Black Honey shade. Other sale picks include Sacheu’s Peel Off Lip Liner Stay-N, Nyx Professional Makeup’s Lip Lingerie Lip Liner Stain, and Kaja’s Jelly Charm Glazed Lip Stain & Blush with Keychain, each highlighted for long wear, easy application, or multitasking benefits.
The roundup also includes Charlotte Tilbury’s Airbrush Flawless Lip Blur, Nars Powermatte Lipstick, and Lancôme’s L’Absolu Rouge Cream Lipstick, all part of the broader promotion. With the sale only lasting through August 1, the report positions these deals as the best chance to grab lip products at a lower price before the event ends.
Source: allure.com
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A simple hydrocolloid patch designed to help whiteheads shrink while keeping fingers away from the skin has become a favorite quick fix for unexpected breakouts.
The post Hero Cosmetics Mighty Patch Original Review: The Pimple Patch That Helps Keep Breakouts Untouched appeared first on toppoptoday.com.
]]>When a breakout appears, it can be hard to resist the urge to check it, press it, or pick at it throughout the day. According to the report, that habit often makes a pimple look more irritated, more noticeable, and harder to ignore. Hero Cosmetics Mighty Patch Original is presented as a straightforward solution for that exact problem.
The patch is a small hydrocolloid sticker meant to sit on clean, dry skin and help draw out the contents of a whitehead while acting as a physical barrier between the blemish and wandering fingers. The report describes it as a quick fix that can be worn for several hours or overnight, then removed the next morning once it has had time to do its work.
In the review, the patch stands out because it encourages the most effective move for a pimple: leaving it alone. After being worn, the once-red spot is described as looking smaller and less angry, making the patch a useful option for anyone who tends to fuss over new breakouts. Hero Cosmetics Mighty Patch Original is also included in the July Allure Beauty Box.
Source: allure.com
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From pear-and-freesia blends to tropical coconut-mango scents, these fruity perfumes bring a polished, wearable twist to sweet fragrance.
The post Fruity Perfumes Are Having a Beauty Moment appeared first on toppoptoday.com.
]]>Fruity perfumes are getting a serious spotlight, and according to the report, they’re being embraced for the same bright, cheerful feeling people associate with summer fruit. The appeal is less about smelling edible and more about capturing a juicy, uplifting mood that still works in everyday life. This season’s fragrance conversation has even leaned into playful labels like “cherry girl” and “strawberry girl,” reflecting just how popular fruit-forward scents have become.
Among the standouts, Jo Malone London’s English Pear & Freesia Eau de Parfum is highlighted as the best fruity-floral option. The scent combines pear and freesia with rose and patchouli, creating a polished fragrance that feels soft, sweet, and office-friendly. A tester described it as a long-running favorite that signals the start of spring in their fragrance routine, with plenty of compliments along the way.
For something more tropical, Miu Miu’s Fleur de Lait Eau de Parfum is described as a creamy mix of mango, osmanthus, and coconut milk. The report says that gives it a warm, skin-like quality rather than a sharp tropical blast, making it feel modern and cozy. U Beauty’s Proem Eau de Parfum takes a different route, opening with rose, lychee, and rhubarb before settling into vetiver and cedarwood. It’s presented as the long-lasting pick, with enough staying power to carry through a full day without becoming heavy.
The roundup also points to other fruit-based options, including Phlur’s Peach Skin Body & Hair Fragrance Mist as the best peach scent and Lore’s Disfruta Eau de Parfum as the best woody choice. Overall, the message is clear: fruity fragrances are no longer just sweet and simple. In this lineup, they come across as layered, wearable, and stylish enough to fit a range of beauty routines.
Source: allure.com
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According to the report, retinal is a stronger vitamin A derivative than retinol, and these dermatologist-approved formulas are designed to help improve texture, breakouts, firmness, and radiance.
The post 9 Retinal Serums and Creams That Can Help Skin Look Smoother and Brighter appeared first on toppoptoday.com.
]]>If you have already spent time with retinol and want something a little more powerful, retinal may be the next step in your routine. The ingredient is a vitamin A derivative, like retinol, but it sits closer to retinoic acid, the active form that works with skin receptors to support collagen production and cell turnover. That extra step makes retinal more potent than retinol and, according to the report, able to deliver faster-acting results for concerns like breakouts, uneven texture, and dullness.
Dermatologists quoted in the story describe retinal as a high-performing option for people looking to upgrade their retinoid routine without moving straight to prescription-strength products. Because it can be more effective than retinol, it is often discussed as a favorite among skin experts, with some even using it themselves. Still, the article notes that results take consistency rather than overnight changes, and retinal should be avoided during pregnancy and breastfeeding.
The roundup highlights nine retinal serums and creams across different needs, including an overall best pick, a formula for uneven texture, one for sensitive skin, and another aimed at experienced users. The top overall choice is Medik8 Crystal Retinal, which comes in multiple strengths and uses a stability-focused system with hydrating ingredients such as glycerin and hyaluronic acid. Other featured formulas include The Inkey List Advanced 0.2% Retinal Serum, Peach & Lily Retinal For All Renewing Serum, and Paula’s Choice Clinical Pro Retinaldehyde Dual-Retinoid Treatment. The article also emphasizes that daily sunscreen is especially important when using retinal, since the ingredient can make skin more sensitive to UV exposure.
Overall, the story positions retinal as a smart middle ground for people who want more noticeable retinoid benefits without immediately jumping to prescription options. With the right formula and steady use, the ingredient is presented as a strong choice for smoother, firmer, brighter-looking skin.
Source: allure.com
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Nordstrom’s 2026 Anniversary Sale brings a wide mix of prestige beauty discounts, from makeup and skin care to hair tools and fragrance, with public access running from July 18 through August 9.
The post 16 Nordstrom Anniversary Sale Beauty Deals Worth Shopping in 2026 appeared first on toppoptoday.com.
]]>The Nordstrom Anniversary Sale is one of those rare beauty events where prestige picks, exclusive sets, and editor favorites all land in one place at once. For 2026, the sale opens to everyone from July 18 through August 9, and Nordstrom is marking its 125th anniversary with its biggest beauty selection on sale yet, according to the report.
That means shoppers can find a broad range of discounted products, including Allure Best of Beauty and Readers’ Choice Award winners, along with items for nearly every part of a routine. The lineup spans makeup, skin care, hair care, and fragrance, making it a strong moment to replace everyday staples, test out a luxury splurge, or even start holiday shopping early.
Among the deals highlighted are Clinique’s Black Honey Almost Lipstick and Pop Lip + Cheek Oil gift set, which pairs the classic sheer burgundy shade with a dewier option for lips and cheeks. Yves Saint Laurent Beauty’s Make Me Blush and Loveshine Lip Oil Stick two-piece set brings together a silky blush and a matching lip product for a coordinated look, while Westman Atelier’s Petite Baby Cheeks Blush & Lit Up Highlight Stick Duo focuses on an easy, glowy finish without the need for brushes.
Other featured savings include Supergoop’s Unseen Sunscreen Broad Spectrum SPF 50 Duo, Olaplex’s Double Shine N°7 Bonding Oil Duo, Jo Malone’s Wood Sage & Sea Salt Home & Away Gift Set, and Byredo’s Bal d’Afrique Eau de Parfum Set. The report also points to Chanel’s Most-Coveted Beauty Set as a higher-end option, with a pouch and three beauty essentials inside, including the La Mousse Camellia Cleansing Cream-to-Foam and Le Volume de Chanel Mascara.
Across the assortment, the emphasis is on prestige products that the editors say are worth paying attention to before they sell out. For beauty shoppers looking for a mix of practical replenishment and indulgent upgrades, this year’s Nordstrom Anniversary Sale appears especially packed with options.
Source: allure.com
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From fine strands to curls and color-treated hair, these moisturizing shampoos are designed to smooth frizz, support shine, and help hair handle humidity.
The post 10 Best Shampoos for Frizzy Hair, According to Editors and Stylists appeared first on toppoptoday.com.
]]>Frizz usually starts long before styling products enter the picture, which is why the right shampoo can make a noticeable difference. According to the report, the best formulas clean the hair without removing the natural oils that help keep the cuticle smooth. Ingredients such as ceramides, humectants, and nourishing oils are highlighted for helping lock in moisture and reduce the puffed-up effect that humidity can cause.
The article notes that the best pick depends on hair type. Fine hair generally needs lightweight hydration that won’t flatten volume, while curly hair often needs richer moisture because scalp oils have a harder time moving from roots to ends. Color-treated hair can also benefit from shampoos that help keep the cuticle sealed, which supports vibrancy while keeping frizz in check.
Among the top recommendations is Living Proof No Frizz Shampoo, named best overall and praised for smoothing and humidity resistance without stripping moisture. The updated formula uses the brand’s Sili-Clone HairTech along with gentle sulfate-free cleansers and conditioning agents like hydrolyzed jojoba esters and sunflower-derived ingredients. For curls, Curlsmith Frizz Control Shampoo stands out with coconut butter, argan oil, blackcurrant seed oil, and squalane, all chosen to support hydration, shine, and easier detangling. The report also spotlights Kérastase Gloss Absolu Shampoo for fine hair, Amika Forget Frizz Anti-Frizz Shampoo for thick hair, and K18 Damage Shield PH Protective Shampoo for damaged hair.
Across the list, the common thread is moisture management: shampoos that cleanse effectively while helping hair stay soft, smooth, and less reactive to humidity. The editors and testers behind the roundup say these formulas are the ones they rely on for more manageable hair and a shinier finish.
Source: allure.com
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Nicole Kidman reflects on the beauty lessons, skincare habits, and creative choices that help her feel most like herself.
The post Nicole Kidman on Beauty, Makeup, and the Freedom to Look Like Herself appeared first on toppoptoday.com.
]]>Nicole Kidman has spent decades transforming herself for the screen, but when it comes to her own appearance, she says the goal is much simpler: to feel comfortable and free. According to the report, the actor wants to walk a red carpet feeling like herself, not boxed in by the pressure of looking a certain way. That confidence, she says, has come more fully with age.
Kidman also looked back on the mixed messages she heard as a teenager, when she began modeling at 14 and 15 while also pursuing acting. At the time, people told her she would be beautiful when she grew up, a comment that left her questioning what she was supposed to think about her appearance. She described herself then as awkward and tall, with long limbs and hair she wished were straight and blonde. Those early insecurities did not stop her career, and she now sees her features differently, saying her coloring and facial structure make it easier for her to change her look.
That flexibility has helped shape both her work and her beauty routine. Kidman said she loves building characters through makeup, costumes, hair, and even the way she moves, and she has no interest in playing herself on camera. She also noted that movement coaches are becoming important again in film, which she welcomes. Off camera, she recently added dermaplaning to her skincare routine and says it helps her moisturizer and serums go on more smoothly while giving her skin a natural exfoliation.
The conversation also touched on her busy year, which includes the new season of Lioness, the upcoming sequel to Practical Magic, and her work on a Clé de Peau Beauté campaign titled The Many Sides of Radiance. Beyond beauty, Kidman mentioned watching a Rafael Nadal documentary series and reading books by Arundhati Roy and Elizabeth Strout, a mix she described as part of her own cultural taste.
Source: allure.com
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Hailey Bieber has been repeatedly styling a nostalgic zig-zag headband, giving the early-2000s accessory a fresh beauty moment.
The post Hailey Bieber Is Making the Y2K Zig-Zag Headband Feel Cool Again appeared first on toppoptoday.com.
]]>Hailey Bieber is giving one of the most recognizable Y2K hair accessories a new spotlight. According to the report, the model and beauty entrepreneur has been seen several times wearing the plastic scalloped comb headband, a style also known as a zig-zag or shark tooth headband.
The accessory showed up more than once in a recent Instagram photo dump, where Bieber wore it in different settings. In one mirror selfie, the matte black headband kept her hair off her face while the rest of her hair stayed loose. In another image, taken during what looked like a workout run, she wore her hair in a bun, letting the headband serve a practical purpose. A third selfie paired the same piece with tiny sunglasses and wired earbuds, leaning even further into the early-2000s feel.
This is not the first time Bieber has leaned into the look. She recently appeared in a Miu Miu campaign wearing a similar accordion-style headband, suggesting the accessory is more than a one-time styling choice. The report notes that Miu Miu has played a major role in the ongoing return of Y2K-inspired fashion, making Bieber’s headband moment feel in step with a broader trend.
Once associated with butterfly clips, roll-on glitter, and old flip phones, the zig-zag headband is now being framed as surprisingly current again. If Bieber keeps wearing it, the report suggests, the style may be well on its way back into everyday rotation.
Source: allure.com
The post Hailey Bieber Is Making the Y2K Zig-Zag Headband Feel Cool Again appeared first on toppoptoday.com.
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From pressed powder to cream and newer hybrid textures, makeup artists explain how different blush formulas work and how to apply them for the finish you want.
The post A Guide to Every Major Blush Formula and How to Wear It appeared first on toppoptoday.com.
]]>Blush used to be a much simpler category, with pressed powder as the default option in most makeup bags. Today, the cheek-color aisle is far more crowded, offering powders in multiple finishes alongside creams, gels, stains, and unusual hybrid textures that bounce back when pressed. According to the report, that variety is exciting, but it can also make it harder to know which formula suits your routine and how to apply it well.
Makeup artists say there is no single best blush type. The right choice depends on the effect you want, whether that is a subtle flush or a more dramatic wash of color. Some formulas are easy to use and forgiving, while others require quicker blending or a bit more technique. To clarify the differences, artists broke down the major blush categories and shared how each one performs on the skin.
Pressed powder blush is described as the most adaptable format, with finishes that range from matte and satin to luminous and shimmer. It can be used on bare skin, over foundation, or on top of set makeup, as long as the base is not still wet. Artists note that it is easy to control, buildable, and beginner-friendly, with wear time that can last through much of the day. It can also help set cream or liquid blush underneath for longer-lasting color.
For application, the advice is to start with a small amount and add more only if needed. A fluffy blush brush is recommended, with color swept onto the apples of the cheeks and blended upward toward the temples for a lifted look. Some artists also like to add a touch across the bridge of the nose. Powder blush can also be layered over cream or liquid formulas once they have dried down, which can make the color appear more opaque.
Cream blush has become another favorite because it blends easily into the skin and can look fresh, dewy, or satin depending on the formula. Artists point out that many cream blushes include skin-care ingredients such as squalane and peptides, and they can be especially flattering on mature skin because they do not emphasize texture the way some matte powders can. The tradeoff is that creamy formulas may fade faster unless they are set with powder.
Application is flexible: fingertips, a damp sponge, a dense brush, or a stick applied directly to the face can all work. Some artists prefer fingertips because the warmth helps the product melt into skin and gives more control. Others recommend picking up product with a brush instead of swiping directly from the stick, especially when foundation is already in place, because it offers more precision and helps protect the base underneath. For a softer, more natural finish, one artist suggests trying the product under foundation.
Source: allure.com
The post A Guide to Every Major Blush Formula and How to Wear It appeared first on toppoptoday.com.
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BHA toners have evolved into gentler, more effective skincare staples that can help clear pores, smooth texture, and support breakout-prone skin.
The post 8 Best BHA Toners for Clearer, Smoother Skin in 2026 appeared first on toppoptoday.com.
]]>BHA toners have come a long way from the harsh, stingy formulas many people used to avoid. According to the report, today’s versions are designed to exfoliate, help decongest pores, and improve skin texture without leaving skin feeling stripped. Because BHA, or beta hydroxy acid, is oil-soluble, it can work its way into pores to clear away excess oil and buildup, making it especially useful for oily and breakout-prone skin. Still, the article notes that dry and sensitive skin types can also benefit when the formula is right.
The roundup highlights several standout options, starting with CosRx BHA Blackhead Power Liquid Treatment as the best overall pick. The K-beauty staple combines gentle BHAs with niacinamide and is praised for helping with blackheads, oil control, dullness, and smoother-looking skin. For combination skin, Paula’s Choice Skin Perfecting 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant is singled out as a widely loved formula that uses salicylic acid to clear pores and remove dead skin buildup, while green tea helps calm visible redness and irritation. The report also notes that this lightweight option keeps things simple with just nine ingredients, which may appeal to sensitive or reactive skin.
Other top picks include Farmacy 2% BHA Pore Cleaning Toner for sensitive skin and Glow Recipe Watermelon Glow PHA + BHA Pore-Tight Toner for large pores. The article says the best BHA toners can help reduce the appearance of blackheads, make pores look smaller, and improve overall tone and texture over time. Some also include soothing or hydrating ingredients, which reflects how toner has shifted from being a throwaway step to a more essential part of a skincare routine. The piece also references common questions around daily use, ingredient pairings, and ideal BHA percentages, underscoring how much interest there is in finding the right toner for different skin needs.
Source: allure.com
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Ulta Beauty’s annual National Lipstick Week event is offering up to 40% off lipsticks, glosses, oils, liners, and stains from brands including MAC, Clinique, Nyx Professional Makeup, Charlotte Tilbury, and more.
The post Ulta’s National Lipstick Week Sale Is Packed With Lip Color Deals Beauty Fans Will Want to See appeared first on toppoptoday.com.
]]>Ulta Beauty’s National Lipstick Week sale is back, and for beauty shoppers looking to update their lip routine, it arrives with a wide range of discounts. Running from July 26 through August 1, the event includes up to 40% off hundreds of lip products from popular names such as MAC, Clinique, Nyx Professional Makeup, Charlotte Tilbury, Lancôme, Nars, and others.
Despite the name, the sale goes far beyond classic lipstick. Shoppers can find markdowns on lip glosses, lip oils, stains, liners, and other lip-focused formulas, making it a broad opportunity to stock up on everyday staples or try something new. According to the report, several editor-approved picks stand out for their texture, wear, and ease of use.
Among the highlights is MAC’s MACximal Silky Matte Lipstick, which is being offered at 40% off and is described as a more comfortable take on matte color, with a creamy feel supported by coconut oil, shea butter, and cocoa butter. Clinique’s Almost Lipstick, also discounted by 40%, is noted for its sheer, buildable color and the cult-favorite Black Honey shade. Other sale picks include Sacheu’s Peel Off Lip Liner Stay-N, Nyx Professional Makeup’s Lip Lingerie Lip Liner Stain, and Kaja’s Jelly Charm Glazed Lip Stain & Blush with Keychain, each highlighted for long wear, easy application, or multitasking benefits.
The roundup also includes Charlotte Tilbury’s Airbrush Flawless Lip Blur, Nars Powermatte Lipstick, and Lancôme’s L’Absolu Rouge Cream Lipstick, all part of the broader promotion. With the sale only lasting through August 1, the report positions these deals as the best chance to grab lip products at a lower price before the event ends.
Source: allure.com
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A simple hydrocolloid patch designed to help whiteheads shrink while keeping fingers away from the skin has become a favorite quick fix for unexpected breakouts.
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]]>When a breakout appears, it can be hard to resist the urge to check it, press it, or pick at it throughout the day. According to the report, that habit often makes a pimple look more irritated, more noticeable, and harder to ignore. Hero Cosmetics Mighty Patch Original is presented as a straightforward solution for that exact problem.
The patch is a small hydrocolloid sticker meant to sit on clean, dry skin and help draw out the contents of a whitehead while acting as a physical barrier between the blemish and wandering fingers. The report describes it as a quick fix that can be worn for several hours or overnight, then removed the next morning once it has had time to do its work.
In the review, the patch stands out because it encourages the most effective move for a pimple: leaving it alone. After being worn, the once-red spot is described as looking smaller and less angry, making the patch a useful option for anyone who tends to fuss over new breakouts. Hero Cosmetics Mighty Patch Original is also included in the July Allure Beauty Box.
Source: allure.com
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From pear-and-freesia blends to tropical coconut-mango scents, these fruity perfumes bring a polished, wearable twist to sweet fragrance.
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]]>Fruity perfumes are getting a serious spotlight, and according to the report, they’re being embraced for the same bright, cheerful feeling people associate with summer fruit. The appeal is less about smelling edible and more about capturing a juicy, uplifting mood that still works in everyday life. This season’s fragrance conversation has even leaned into playful labels like “cherry girl” and “strawberry girl,” reflecting just how popular fruit-forward scents have become.
Among the standouts, Jo Malone London’s English Pear & Freesia Eau de Parfum is highlighted as the best fruity-floral option. The scent combines pear and freesia with rose and patchouli, creating a polished fragrance that feels soft, sweet, and office-friendly. A tester described it as a long-running favorite that signals the start of spring in their fragrance routine, with plenty of compliments along the way.
For something more tropical, Miu Miu’s Fleur de Lait Eau de Parfum is described as a creamy mix of mango, osmanthus, and coconut milk. The report says that gives it a warm, skin-like quality rather than a sharp tropical blast, making it feel modern and cozy. U Beauty’s Proem Eau de Parfum takes a different route, opening with rose, lychee, and rhubarb before settling into vetiver and cedarwood. It’s presented as the long-lasting pick, with enough staying power to carry through a full day without becoming heavy.
The roundup also points to other fruit-based options, including Phlur’s Peach Skin Body & Hair Fragrance Mist as the best peach scent and Lore’s Disfruta Eau de Parfum as the best woody choice. Overall, the message is clear: fruity fragrances are no longer just sweet and simple. In this lineup, they come across as layered, wearable, and stylish enough to fit a range of beauty routines.
Source: allure.com
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According to the report, retinal is a stronger vitamin A derivative than retinol, and these dermatologist-approved formulas are designed to help improve texture, breakouts, firmness, and radiance.
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]]>If you have already spent time with retinol and want something a little more powerful, retinal may be the next step in your routine. The ingredient is a vitamin A derivative, like retinol, but it sits closer to retinoic acid, the active form that works with skin receptors to support collagen production and cell turnover. That extra step makes retinal more potent than retinol and, according to the report, able to deliver faster-acting results for concerns like breakouts, uneven texture, and dullness.
Dermatologists quoted in the story describe retinal as a high-performing option for people looking to upgrade their retinoid routine without moving straight to prescription-strength products. Because it can be more effective than retinol, it is often discussed as a favorite among skin experts, with some even using it themselves. Still, the article notes that results take consistency rather than overnight changes, and retinal should be avoided during pregnancy and breastfeeding.
The roundup highlights nine retinal serums and creams across different needs, including an overall best pick, a formula for uneven texture, one for sensitive skin, and another aimed at experienced users. The top overall choice is Medik8 Crystal Retinal, which comes in multiple strengths and uses a stability-focused system with hydrating ingredients such as glycerin and hyaluronic acid. Other featured formulas include The Inkey List Advanced 0.2% Retinal Serum, Peach & Lily Retinal For All Renewing Serum, and Paula’s Choice Clinical Pro Retinaldehyde Dual-Retinoid Treatment. The article also emphasizes that daily sunscreen is especially important when using retinal, since the ingredient can make skin more sensitive to UV exposure.
Overall, the story positions retinal as a smart middle ground for people who want more noticeable retinoid benefits without immediately jumping to prescription options. With the right formula and steady use, the ingredient is presented as a strong choice for smoother, firmer, brighter-looking skin.
Source: allure.com
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Nordstrom’s 2026 Anniversary Sale brings a wide mix of prestige beauty discounts, from makeup and skin care to hair tools and fragrance, with public access running from July 18 through August 9.
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]]>The Nordstrom Anniversary Sale is one of those rare beauty events where prestige picks, exclusive sets, and editor favorites all land in one place at once. For 2026, the sale opens to everyone from July 18 through August 9, and Nordstrom is marking its 125th anniversary with its biggest beauty selection on sale yet, according to the report.
That means shoppers can find a broad range of discounted products, including Allure Best of Beauty and Readers’ Choice Award winners, along with items for nearly every part of a routine. The lineup spans makeup, skin care, hair care, and fragrance, making it a strong moment to replace everyday staples, test out a luxury splurge, or even start holiday shopping early.
Among the deals highlighted are Clinique’s Black Honey Almost Lipstick and Pop Lip + Cheek Oil gift set, which pairs the classic sheer burgundy shade with a dewier option for lips and cheeks. Yves Saint Laurent Beauty’s Make Me Blush and Loveshine Lip Oil Stick two-piece set brings together a silky blush and a matching lip product for a coordinated look, while Westman Atelier’s Petite Baby Cheeks Blush & Lit Up Highlight Stick Duo focuses on an easy, glowy finish without the need for brushes.
Other featured savings include Supergoop’s Unseen Sunscreen Broad Spectrum SPF 50 Duo, Olaplex’s Double Shine N°7 Bonding Oil Duo, Jo Malone’s Wood Sage & Sea Salt Home & Away Gift Set, and Byredo’s Bal d’Afrique Eau de Parfum Set. The report also points to Chanel’s Most-Coveted Beauty Set as a higher-end option, with a pouch and three beauty essentials inside, including the La Mousse Camellia Cleansing Cream-to-Foam and Le Volume de Chanel Mascara.
Across the assortment, the emphasis is on prestige products that the editors say are worth paying attention to before they sell out. For beauty shoppers looking for a mix of practical replenishment and indulgent upgrades, this year’s Nordstrom Anniversary Sale appears especially packed with options.
Source: allure.com
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