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When head makeup artist of the Oscars, Bruce Grayson, arrives to work on the day of the Academy Awards, he needs to make sure his kit is packed with solutions for any conceivable cosmetic emergency. “The security is equal to that of a presidential appearance,” he tells Allure. “Once we’re in the theater, it’s locked down for four blocks in every direction, so God forbid you forget something, you’re going to have to trek at least a half mile out of the perimeter.”

Tucked deep behind that strict security perimeter—past the crowded red carpet and bustling auditorium, beyond the cramped wings of the stage—is Grayson’s domain, the backstage hair and makeup room. It’s a place of quiet and cosmetics amidst the commotion, where Hollywood’s biggest names stop in to relax, hide out, and have their hair and makeup touched up before going on stage to present, whether that’s a rogue false lash or a smudge of lipstick on a tuxedo collar. (His solution for the latter? Your basic latex makeup wedges, dampened and rubbed against the stain. “It will take out 85-90% of the color,” he says.)

Grayson describes the hair and makeup room as a safe and sacred space: “In the green room, people are socializing and applauding when a winner enters. It's a lot of energy. When you walk into hair and makeup, it’s very zen. It's the kind of place where people want to go to [collect] their thoughts before they present.” He says he’s seen nervous stars’ backs relax while sitting in his chair. “It can be such a stressful night, and freshening up their makeup sometimes just puts them at ease.”

To prepare, Grayson starts packing his kit weeks in advance, placing large orders for disposable applicators, including sponges, mascara wands, and fuzzy doe-foots for lip gloss and balm. He attends every rehearsal and dress rehearsal and knows the schedule for the night like the back of his hand. “We know every person who is going to be presenting each award, and it’s a very coordinated effort,” he says. “They do the red carpet and, if they’re sitting in the audience, they’re pulled several acts before. They go backstage and we see who needs help. We offer it to them, and sometimes they want it, sometimes they don’t.”

Sometimes, stars like to come backstage and freshen themselves up. “For certain presenters, and certain actors in general, makeup is a part of what gets them on stage; it’s an old theater thing,” says Grayson. “You don’t want to mess with that process; so in those cases it’s about standing here in front of them and handing [products] to them.”

Not unlike a beauty salon, the Oscars hair and makeup room typically sits three makeup chairs, three hair chairs, and one chair left open… for Meryl Streep. “She's been to the Oscars so many times, and she likes watching the show from our vantage point rather than from the green room.” The three-time Academy Award winner (and 21-time nominee) enjoys the quiet environment, according to Grayson. “It’s so endearing to me that every year that she comes to the show, we have an empty seat there and she hangs out with us.”

Makeup artists from Grayson’s team are also positioned in the wings, armed with blotting papers (Tatcha Aburatorigami papers are his go-to) and cotton buds, waiting to catch a presenter who skipped the makeup room or an actor who just won an award. The cramped quarters of the theater, however, mean that one has to be incredibly aware of their surroundings, something Grayson was reminded of when Julia Roberts won her best actress award in 2001 for Erin Brockovich. “I was called to stage left to catch up with Julia because she needed powder and a lip, and as I turned the corner, I stepped on the back of a woman’s dress, which was attached to the neckline,” Grayson recalls. “I saw this person’s head jerk back and heard them say, ‘Whoa!’ only to realize it was Julia. Luckily, she was cool about it, but I was so embarrassed because I try to be so careful about watching for dress trains.”

In addition to taking care of the celebrity attendees, Grayson and his team are responsible for all the dancers and singers performing at the Oscars, the number of which can vary year to year. His smallest crew was around five to six artists (in 2011, when James Franco and Anne Hathaway hosted), the largest was 46, the year Slum Dog Millionaire won best picture, and they had to recreate traditional Indian makeup on a troupe of 50 dancers. (Grayson brought on a cultural advisor for that number to ensure the accuracy of the makeup.) Ryan Gosling’s “I’m Just Ken” performance is a more recent example of a major Oscar song-and-dance moment. It required approximately 39 makeup artists to transform the male dancers into Mattel-levels of perfection.

Regardless of the year, makeup for performers must be more dramatic and more steadfast than for the average presenter. Grayson likes to mix a cream foundation into a bottle of liquid foundation to create a thick, long-wear base that withstands a lot of sweat. He’ll sometimes double up false lash strips or add individual flares to lash strips to add more definition to the performers’ lash lines.”

To Grayson, however, all the chaos, kit organizing, and occasional backstage slip-ups are worth it for the exhilaration that is live television and the enormity of being such an integral part of Hollywood’s biggest night. It’s telling that Grayson’s most cherished memory is not running into Daniel Craig (he’s a huge James Bond fan) or Salma Hayek and Penelope Cruz sitting in his chair (“pinch me” moments), but rather a confirmation that what he’s been doing for the last 25 years continues to be appreciated by the industry’s heaviest hitters. “I’ve touched up Kate Winslet’s makeup countless times over the years, and the last time she was at the Oscars, in 2016, she was in and out of the makeup room five or six times because she was presenting and nominated. At the end of the night, she turned to her husband and said, ‘I just want to say something. This group of makeup and hair people has been taking care of me since I was a little girl—and making me look beautiful.’”

Bruce Grayson’s Oscars Checklist

Working in such a fast-paced, high-stakes environment, Grayson has fine-tuned his Oscars night makeup kit to include only what really works for him and for the presenters in his chair. Below, the makeup artist breaks down what products you’ll find at his station this year.

Base

Grayson has long been a fan of Armani Beauty Luminous Silk Foundation and gives the reformulation two thumbs up. "I've always loved it because it blends well with your natural skin, but now it’s more hydrating and comes in more shades,” he says.

You’ll also find two Japanese foundations from Suqqu and Koh Gen Do, as well as the Pro Ultra Foundation from Canadian brand Face Atelier. The latter is popular with professionals for its colorful adjuster shades—liquid pigments in unnatural colors that can alter the tone of your base. “The adjuster colors allow us to add a dash of red, yellow, or olive to a liquid foundation to perfectly match what the person already has on their face,” he explains. For someone who has great skin and just needs a slight refresh, he pulls out the Laura Mercier Tinted Moisturizer, a long-wear formula with a slightly dewy, skin-like finish.

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Armani Beauty

Luminous Silk Foundation

$69

Nordstrom

$69

Sephora

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Laura Mercier

Tinted Moisturizer

$50

Amazon

$50

Nordstrom

$50

Ulta Beauty

As for concealer, Grayson keeps multiple formulas and finishes on hand, including the classic Laura Mercier Secret Camouflage. “There’s no quicker way to get rid of skin discoloration than with this product, like if someone gets red in the cheeks because they’re nervous, I can take it down with a sheer coat,” he says.

He also likes the blurring effect of Armani Beauty Luminous Silk and Haus Labs Trichone Skin Tech concealers, and the Warm Peach shade of the Dior Forever Skin Corrector Concealer. “Everyone needs a little peach under their eyes to brighten, and you can use this directly onto skin or mix it into another brand’s concealer,” he says. Don’t expect to find this shade in stock if you live in Los Angeles, though. “Makeup artists wait for new orders of the Warm Peach to come in because it sells out so fast. I’ve even seen people steal the samples off the counter.”

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Laura Mercier

Secret Camouflage Concealer

$38

Bluemercury

$38

Neiman Marcus

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Armani Beauty

Luminous Silk Concealer

$42

Nordstrom

$42

Sephora

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Haus Labs

Triclone Skin Tech Concealer

$32

Sephora

$32

Kohl's

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Dior

Forever Skin Correct Concealer

$42

Nordstrom

$42

Ulta Beauty

$42

Sephora

Another important complexion product Grayson keeps handy? A bottle of Evian Facial Spray. He explains that many stars have their makeup applied in the afternoon but don’t present until later in the evening. “We carry small cans of this with us because it’s the best way to refresh old makeup,” he says.

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Evian

Facial Spray

$15

Amazon

$15

Ulta Beauty

Setting Powder and Oil Blotters

While not everyone needs a fresh coat of lip gloss or a false-lash refixed, nearly everyone who enters the makeup room requires some de-shining. Grayson comes well prepared, starting with his aforementioned Tatcha Aburatorigami blotting papers or the Beautyblender Bloterazzi sponge pads. “You always want to remove oil before adding powder, it’s the number one mistake I see people make,” he explains. Sometimes he uses the blotting papers first, followed by the Bloterazzi. Other times, he wraps the blotting papers around the squishy tool, which makes easy work of lifting oil away from hard-to-reach places on the face.

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Tatcha

Blotting Paper

$16

Amazon

$16

Sephora

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Beautyblender

Blotterazzi

$10

Amazon

The setting powders in his kit this year include the Danessa Myricks Beauty Yummy Skin Universal Balm Powder, Laura Mercier Secret Brightening Color-Correcting Setting Powder, MAC Blot Pressed Powders in Medium Dark and Deep Dark, and Charlotte Tilbury Airbrush Flawless Finishing Powder (which he notes is a celebrity favorite). And while marketed as a primer, he also frequently uses the Indeed Labs Nanoblur Blurring Primer on top of makeup to reduce shine on Oscar night. “It’s great on camera because it leaves skin looking natural, not matte.

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Danessa Myricks Beauty

Yummy Skin Blurring Balm Powder in Universal

$39

Sephora

$39

Kohl's

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Laura Mercier

Secret Brightening Powder for Under Eyes

$35

Amazon

$35

Nordstrom

$35

Ulta Beauty

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MAC

Blotting Pressed Powder

$38

Nordstrom

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Charlotte Tilbury

Airbrush Flawless Finishing Powder

$50 $40 (20% off)

Amazon

$50

Nordstrom

$50

Ulta Beauty

Lashes

For hygienic purposes, Grayson and his team apply mascara with disposable wands or a small fan brush, so his choice of mascaras for the big night comes down to their formulas. He raves about the Charlotte Tilbury Pillow Talk Pushup Lashes. “I actually see it gives lashes a lift, so we don’t need a lash curler, which I don’t like using backstage,” he says. He adds that the MAC Stack Volumizing Mascara “works fast, doesn’t clump, and is really buildable,” while the Chanel Le Volume Mascara adds “massive volume and dries quickly,” which is key when working under time constraints.

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Charlotte Tilbury

Pillow Talk Push Up Lashes

$29 $23 (21% off)

Amazon

$29

Nordstrom

$29

Ulta Beauty

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MAC

Stack Mascara

$29

Nordstrom

$29

Ulta Beauty

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Chanel

Le Volume Mascara

$40

Ulta Beauty

More important than mascara is false lashes, as so many celebrities wear them for the evening. In addition to Duo Lash Glue to affix errant lashes or strips that have lifted, he likes to have a few Ardell Lash Books on hand to replace clusters that have come off (Naked Series is his favorite). “These are genius because you get a set of all the brand’s different lengths and sizes in one package, and the book format makes it easy to get lashes onto a celebrity’s eye quickly,” he says.

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Duo

Brush-On Clear Lash Glue

$10

Amazon (2-Pack)

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Ardell

Pre-Mapped Eyelash Extensions Kit

$15 $14 (7% off)

Amazon

Lipsticks, Pencils, and Gloss

There’s no way Grayson could come prepared with every presenter’s exact lipstick, lip pencil, and lip gloss shade. Instead, he relies on products that work on a wide variety of skin tones, like the Makeup by Mario Ultra Suede Sculpting Lip Pencil in Dmitry, a beige pink pencil that he describes as “pretty universal,” the MAC Clear Lip Glass, and the Jack Black Intense Lip Therapy Balm, which is popular with a lot of the men backstage.

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Makeup by Mario

Ultra Suede Sculpting Lip Pencil in Dmitry

$26

Sephora

$26

Kohl's

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MAC

Clear Lip Glass

$24

Nordstrom

$24

Ulta Beauty

$24

Sephora

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Jack Black

Intense Lip Therapy Balm

$10

Nordstrom

$10

Ulta Beauty

$10

Sephora

He then keeps full ranges of some of his favorite lipstick formulas, which include newcomers like Makeup by Mario Satin Lipstick, which is currently available in 18 shades, and Merit Signature Lipstick, which Grayson says is the “perfect texture for a long night like the Oscars—lightweight, great payoff, and it doesn’t feel like lipstick."

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Makeup by Mario

Super Satin Lipstick in South Shore

$28

Sephora

$28

Kohl's

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Merit

Signature Lipstick

$28

Sephora

$28

Kohl's

His stash also includes some iconic brands, such as Chanel Rouge Allure and the Best of Beauty-winning Dior On Stage Lipstick. While he keeps a lot of pinks and pinky nudes, he also makes sure to have a few great, universal reds. “At least one or two celebrities will be wearing red each year, and Rihanna’s Stunna Lip Paint Longwear Lip Color in Uncensored really does work on everyone,” he says.

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Chanel

Rouge Allure Lipstick

$53

Chanel

$53

Nordstrom

$53

Ulta Beauty

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Dior

Rouge Dior On Stage Lipstick in Confident Nude

$48

Nordstrom

$48

Ulta Beauty

$48

Sephora

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Fenty Beauty

Stunna Lip Paint Longwear Fluid Lip Color in Uncensored

$29

Ulta Beauty

$29

Kohl's

Clean Beauty

The demand for clean beauty options backstage has boomed in recent years, prompting Grayson to add brands marketed as clean—like Rare Beauty, Merit, and Westman Atelier—into his kit. Rare Beauty Soft Pinch Liquid Blush is extremely buildable, “allowing us to go from a hint to a blast of color on the cheeks,” Merit Flush Bomb “melts into skin with no discernible edges,” and Westman Atelier Face Trace Contour Stick “looks like a truly natural shadow.” Grayson also gives a shoutout to the Tower 28 One-Liner in Work of Art, which he uses primarily on lips. “In a world where everything's 24-hour wear, you can take your time with this pencil, blending and blurring without having to race against the clock.”

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Rare Beauty

Soft Pinch Liquid Blush

$25

Ulta Beauty

$25

Sephora

$25

Kohl's

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Merit

Flush Balm

$30

Sephora

$30

Merit

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Westman Atelier

Face Trace Contour Stick

$48

Nordstrom

$48

Credo Beauty

$48

Sephora

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Tower 28

One-Liner in Work of Art

$15

Amazon

$15

Credo Beauty

$15

Sephora

Cheeks

For blushes and bronzers, Grayson needs a wide assortment of creams and powders to choose from. “If somebody's wearing light makeup, it's better to stick with the powder. But if somebody's wearing more full coverage, then I go over with cream because you're blending product into product rather than putting a powder over product.”

In the cream corner, he likes the Dior Cream Bronzing Stick, Charlotte Tilbury Beauty Light Wand in Peachgasm, and Charlotte Tilbury Hollywood Contour Wand (the sponge-tip applicators are great for quick touch-ups). On the powder side, it’s Guerlain’s classic Sunkissed Natural Healthy Glow Powder and Chanel Joues Contraste blush (he has a case of all the shades that he keeps pristine just to take to the Oscars). And when it comes to highlighter, he only uses one: the Hourglass Ambient Lighting Palette. “It’s micro-milled, so there’s no chance that you’ll see any glitter, and it just lights up and revives the skin,” he says. “Plus, it's a great way to disguise minor imperfections.”

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Dior

Forever Skin Bronzer

$52

Nordstrom

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Charlotte Tilbury

Beauty Light Wand in Peachgasm

$44 $35 (20% off)

Amazon

$44

Nordstrom

$44

Ulta Beauty

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Guerlain

Sunkissed Natural Healthy Glow Powder

$62

Nordstrom

$62

Sephora

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Chanel

Joues Contrasts Blush

$56

Nordstrom

$56

Ulta Beauty

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Hourglass

Ambient Lighting Palette

$75

Amazon

$75

Nordstrom

Tools

When Grayson said he has to be prepared for every little thing, he wasn’t kidding. His makeup table is stocked with Refresh eye drops to lubricate dry contact lenses (both a big bottle and individually-packaged travel drops), razors (for performers who may have forgotten to shave), toothpaste, toothbrushes, and hundreds of disposable mascara wands, latex sponges, cotton buds, and doe-foot lip applicators. He’s got body makeup (Westmore Beauty Body Coverage Perfector and Dermablend Leg and Body Makeup Foundation) and hand cream (Alba 1913 Galenic Daily Hand Cream) and breath fresheners (Altoid minis, because they dissolve faster than the normal size), and oddly enough, Play-Doh. “Everyone’s wearing shimmery gowns, and there’s nothing more distracting than when a presenter goes out on stage with a piece of glitter on their forehead,” Grayson explains. “I’m constantly on glitter patrol, and while shipping tape works, I’ve found that Play-Doh is a great way to lift up sparkle—and a lot less threatening.”

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Westmore Beauty

Body Coverage Perfector

$49

Amazon

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Dermablend

Leg and Body Makeup Foundation

$40 $28 (30% off)

Amazon

$40

Dermstore

$40

Ulta Beauty

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Alba 1913

Galenic Daily Hand Cream

$15

Amazon

Andy JacksonSave StorySave this storySave StorySave this story

Black hair has historically been both policed and overlooked. Cosmetology training programs have long ignored textured hair in curricula, school dress codes have banned protective styles, and the mainstream hair-care market tends to prioritize products for looser curl patterns. But anti-Blackness and discrimination against Afro-textured hair have only pushed Black people to create what we need to care for our naturally curly and coily textures. The number of Black-owned and -founded hair products on the market has increased over the years, creating more options to care for our hair—and more avenues for sustainable wealth within the community of Black entrepreneurs.

In the early 2000s brands like SheaMoisture, Miss Jessie's, and Carol's Daughter paved the way with formulations that worked for a range of natural textures and with marketing that celebrated the beauty of Black hair. Two decades later, more Black-owned natural hair brands are lining shelves with leave-ins, deep conditioning treatments, and oils that nourish, style, and treat our hair. Outside of wash-day staples, now we have a bevy of stylish accessories such as satin-lined turbans and colorful headwraps to protect our delicate coils.

The brands here are owned or founded by Black people, but that doesn’t mean they work only for Black hair—all races and textures can benefit from these products. Take a scroll below through some of the Black-owned and -founded brands and products Allure editors believe deserve a spot in your routine.

Melanin Haircare

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Melanin Haircare

Multi-Use Softening Leave-In Conditioner

$36

Sephora

You can't talk about the natural hair movement of the 2000s without mentioning Whitney White. The hair blogger’s YouTube channel, Naptural85, was an invaluable resource for millions of people learning how to style and care for natural hair. In 2018, after years of reviewing other brands’ products and sharing DIY recipes, White launched her own line, Melanin Haircare. The brand’s current product range includes a shampoo, deep conditioner, hair oil, styling cream, deep conditioner, and hair accessories.

Star product: After just one use, you'll be a fan of the extremely nourishing Multi-Use Softening Leave-In Conditioner. It’s formulated with moisturizing ingredients like aloe vera, argan oil, and baobab seed oil.

Bread Beauty Supply

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Bread Beauty Supply

Bread Beauty Supply Hair-Foam: Curl Defining Mousse

$26

Ulta Beauty

$26

Sephora

Bread Beauty Supply founder Maeva Heim launched her brand in 2020 with a simple ethos: “Embrace your frizz.” She kept to the basics—shampoo, deep conditioner, and oil—for the initial offerings. Today her collection includes 13 products that are simply great.

Star product: The Hair-Foam: Curl Defining Mousse defines curls without weighing them down or leaving them crunchy. Keratin fibers increase humidity resistance, while glycerin keeps stands hydrated.

Cécred

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Cécred

Moisturizing Deep Conditioner

$40

Cécred

Many people forget that, long before she was captivating audiences worldwide, Beyoncé was a preteen sweeping up hair in her mother’s Houston salon. With the help of her mom (who goes by Mama Tina), Beyoncé tapped into her love for hair care in 2024 with the launch of Cécred. The line includes a deep conditioning mask, a clarifying shampoo, and a fermented rice protein treatment that got the Allure team buzzing over its innovative packaging—the rice protein powder comes with a shaker bottle to mix the treatment with water and dispense directly onto the hair.

Star product: “The Moisturizing Deep Conditioner is the product I’m recommending to all my friends who want to try Cécred,” says Allure editor in chief Jessica Cruel. It has a luxurious consistency that is heavy-duty enough to moisturize thick coils and curls.

Miche Beauty

Miche Beauty was founded in 2016 by husband-and-wife duo Michelle and Jonathan Ballard. The brand has become a go-to for textured-hair routines thanks to its thoughtfully formulated products, featuring ingredients including aloe vera, honey, and botanical oils. From deeply hydrating conditioners to styling creams that deliver definition without crunch, Miche Beauty’s lineup is designed to simplify wash day while keeping textured hair moisturized and healthy.

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Miche

Set Gel-to-Foam Styling Mousse

$23

Miche

Star product: Recently the brand has been going viral on TikTok for it's Set Gel-to-Foam Styling Mousse—known for it's ability to define curls with a long-lasting yet touchable hold. Don't believe the hype? Just watch the countless videos of women using it and see that the bouncy, shiny results speak for themselves. Plus, the bestseller is often sold out—though thankfully it's always available for pre-order.

Donna's Recipe

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Donna's Recipe

Sweet Potato Pie Extra Creamy Hair Cream

$16

Ulta Beauty

Tabitha Brown went viral back in 2020 with her soulful vegan recipes and her soothing auntie-like aura, but her beautiful hair—which took up half the frame in most videos—could not be ignored. Brown shared her hair secrets with the world when she co-founded Donna’s Recipe in 2021 (Donna is the name Brown affectionately calls her hair.)

Star product: Allure editors with textured hair fell in love with the Sweet Potato Pie Extra Creamy Hair Cream. Not only is it deeply moisturizing, but it also elongates curls while providing a lightweight hold. It also smells delicious.

Highbrow Hippie

Founders Kadi Lee and Myka Harris started Highbrow Hippie with a dream to combine their two worlds of hairstyling and wellness. Lee, who is a colorist for celebs like Julia Roberts and Kristin Davis, boasts years of hair care expertise. Harris, an herbalist and brand strategist, brings her business acumen and botanical knowledge. Together, the two created a line that is powered by plants (like Ashwagandha, pea sprout, and Camellia Sinensis flower) and that adds an element of ritual to your hair-care routine.

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Highbrow Hippie

Root Replenish Active Growth Serum

$88

Highbrow Hippie

Star product: The Root Replenish Active Growth Serum is like a cool drink of water for your scalp—especially when wearing a protective style. Sodium benzoate helps to balance the pH of the scalp by preventing the growth of bacteria and yeast, while rice water hydrates and soothes.

Taliah Waajid

Taliah Waajid knows ball when it comes to natural hair—she started a hair-care business when she was just 14. The cosmetologist fell in love with natural hair care through necessity—her mom refused to perm her hair as a child, forcing her to learn how to manage her curls on her own. What started as obligation grew into a passion project and eventually, a full-fledged brand. Taliah Waajid is praised for its moisture-rich wash essentials, as well as its stylers designed to support healthy, natural hair.

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Taliah Waajid

Curly Curl Cream

$9

Amazon

Star product: The Curly Curl Cream is a dream for those who have tighter curls and coils and who love to do styles like twist outs and braid outs. Shea butter coats each strand in moisture while the creamy texture provides easy slip for combing and styling.

Pattern Beauty

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Pattern Beauty

Scalp Serum

$29

Amazon

$29 $24.65 (15% off)

Nordstrom

$29

Ulta Beauty

Tracee Ellis Ross has always been known for her voluminous curls, so it made perfect sense when she launched her hair-care line, Pattern Beauty, in 2019. "I was dreaming about doing this all through high school," Ross previously told Allure. The first Pattern Beauty drop included a shampoo, three different conditioners (medium, heavy, and intense), two hair oil serums, a brush, a clip, and a microfiber towel. Ross has since added items like an Afro pick, a scalp serum, and a curl-conscious blow-dryer, and a hand-held steamer.

Star product: The Pattern Beauty Scalp Serum is like a cool drink of water for your scalp. The nozzle tip makes it easy to apply the thin gel, especially if you’re wearing a protective style. The peppermint and rosemary oil help to soothe and offer a light botanical scent.

Dizziak

With five different textures on her head, founder and former journalist, Loretta De Feo, started Dizziak in 2018 because she couldn't find any products that worked for her. The London-based brand boasts formulas that hydrate the hair, promoting healthy strands that look and feel good. The tightly-edited product range has amassed a following of many British it-girls, including Dua Lipa, who discovered the range after dying her hair red. The singer loved it so much, she signed on as an investor.

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Dizziak

Deep Conditioner

$38

Dizziak

Star product: The Deep Conditioner is chockfull of nourishing ingredients including aloe vera, argan oil, babassu oil, castor oil, and quinoa protein. A healthy squeeze of the sleek tube produces a rich cream that, when applied to wet hair, deeply moisturizes for soft strands.

TPH by Taraji

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TPH By Taraji

Slick Edge Control

$10 $7.59 (24% off)

Sally Beauty

Like many people, Taraji P. Henson got very into self-care during the pandemic. In 2020, she turned that passion into TPH by Taraji. The beauty line includes hair- and body-care products such as the New Levelz conditioner, the Master Cleanse scalp wash, and the Anything Glows body oil.

Star Product: The Slick Edge Control is perfect for touching up edges on the go. The tube packaging makes it easy to bring anywhere, and the flat top makes it great for creating those time-consuming, protective styles. Instead of squeezing out the gel multiple times, you can squeeze out a lot of product to sit on the flat surface of the cap for fast and easy use.

Sienna Naturals

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Sienna Naturals

Dew Magic Leave-In Conditioner

$28

Credo Beauty

$28

Revolve

For years, Issa Rae tested products for her sister-in-law Hannah Diop’s hair-care brand, Sienna Naturals, which launched in 2012. In 2020, Rae joined Diop as co-owner, just in time for a rebrand. The company makes plant-based products for all types of natural hair textures.

Star product: The Dew Magic Leave-In Conditioner has a lightweight, milky texture that sinks into the hair and adds moisture to even the coarsest textures.

The Doux

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The Doux

Big Poppa Defining Gel

$13 $12 (8% off)

Amazon

$12

Walmart

Maya and Brian Smith were high-school sweethearts before becoming business partners and cofounders of The Doux. Maya, a licensed cosmetologist, opened her first salon in Germany in 2008 while her husband was stationed there in the military. Three years later, when they relocated back to Atlanta, the couple launched The Doux. The brand is best known for products that create well-defined, long-lasting styles like twist-outs and wash-n-gos.

Star product: The Doux Big Poppa Define Gel is one of the brand’s most popular items—it even won a Best of Beauty award in 2022. It defines curls and coils with a non-flaky hold while nourishing hair with glycerin.

Design Essentials

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Design Essentials

Almond & Avocado Curl Enhancing Mousse

$16

Amazon

$17

Ulta Beauty

A mainstay in many salons that specialize in textured hairstyling, Design Essentials has all you need to properly care for every curl pattern. Entrepreneur Cornell McBride launched the Design Essentials hair-care system in 1990 after years of working in the health- and beauty-aids industry. The brand now offers a wide range of products you can shop based on curl type, hair needs, and ingrediens. There really is something for everyone.

Star product: A quality mousse is a necessary tool in every naturalist’s arsenal. In our opinion, it doesn’t get better than the Almond & Avocado Curl Enhancing Mousse, which keeps frizz at bay, defines curls, and adds a light sheen.

Adwoa Beauty

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Adwoa Beauty

Baomint Moisturizing Curl Defining Gel

$15

Amazon

$32

Sephora

Founder Julian Addo named her hair-care brand after her Ghanaian traditional name, Adwoa. Addo began her career in hairstyling when she was just 14 years old and over two decades, later launched Adwoa Beauty in 2017. While natural hair has many needs, Adwoa Beauty recognizes that moisture is high on that list. Each product contains moisture-boosting and -sealing ingredients like glycerin, baobab oil, blue tansy, and shea butter.

Star product: We love the Baomint Moisturizing Curl Defining Gel so much that we gave it an Allure Best of Beauty Award in 2022. The lightweight gel adds definition to curls without leaving flaky residue.

Charlotte Mensah

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Charlotte Mensah

Manketti Hair Oil

$55

Dermstore

This Ghanaian-owned hair-care brand is as luxe as it gets. Founder Charlotte Mensah is an acclaimed British hairstylist and owner of Hair Lounge in London, so when she launched her brand in 2016, it was no surprise that the hair-care line quickly became popular, especially in England. The brand’s Manketti Oil range features six simple products that will take you through your entire wash day, transforming it from a chore into a luxurious ritual.

Star product: The Manketti Oil is a rich formula that locks in moisture when used on wet hair and adds shine to dry hair after styling.

Camille Rose

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Camille Rose

Curl Maker Defining Gel

$23

Ulta Beauty

$19 $18 (5% off)

Amazon

Janell Stephens started Camille Rose in her kitchen to address the eczema on her children’s skin and scalp. In just three years, Stephens grew the brand, entering retail partnerships with stores like Target, Sally Beauty, CVS, and Ulta Beauty. There’s a Camille Rose product for every hair concern: The brand’s vast product range focuses on dryness, breakage, and dullness. The styling line’s gels, mousses, and leave-ins are sure to upgrade your favorite natural hairstyles.

Star product: The Camille Rose Curl Maker is the secret weapon for your twist-out needs. The lightweight gel defines curls while adding a soft hold.

TGIN

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TGIN

Honey Miracle Hair Mask

$19

Ulta Beauty

After getting a law degree from Harvard, Chris-Tia Donaldson pivoted to her passion for beauty, starting TGIN (Thank God It’s Natural) in 2009. The brand, now helmed by CEO Aris Singleton, is sold at retailers like CVS, Sally Beauty, and Target. TGIN may be a bit more low-key in profile, but if you’re in the know, you know how effective its products are.

Star product: The Honey Miracle Hair Mask is great for thirsty strands that need a healthy dose of moisture. Raw honey and jojoba oil give hair deep nourishment that lasts long after wash day.

Briogeo

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Briogeo

Don't Despair, Repair! Super Moisture Conditioner

$39 $33.15 (15% off)

Nordstrom

$39

Ulta Beauty

$39

Dermstore

You’ve probably seen the Black-founded hair-care brand Briogeo while walking down the aisles of Sephora or Ulta Beauty. Wella acquired Briogeo in 2023, but founder Nancy Twine stayed on as CEO, continuing her involvement with the brand and championing its mission for women of color. Briogeo is known for formulating solution-based products, leaving out potentially concerning ingredients such as microplastics and aerosols.

Star product: The Don't Despair, Repair! Super Moisture Conditioner won an Allure Best of Beauty Award in 2021 (and has won our Readers’ Choice Awards six times) for its moisture-packed formula that is chock-full of amino acid-rich marine algae extract.

$32 at Grown AlchemistSave StorySave this storySave StorySave this story

TL;DR:

• What it is: A lightweight hand cream
• What it does: Adds instant moisture to dry, cracked hands and cuticles
• Who it’s for: Anyone looking for a hit of hydration on their hands

Whenever I think of Grown Alchemist, I’m instantly transported to JFK airport’s Delta lounge. (I much prefer La Guardia these days, but I digress.) The brand’s hand soaps and lotions are in all of the lounge’s bathrooms (and have even been found inside in-flight amenity kits), and because I travel a lot for work, I feel like I’m always in that lounge, washing and moisturizing my hands.

Now, though, I can experience the luxury of airport lounge hand lotion without even having to cash in some frequent flier miles. That’s because the Grown Alchemist Soothing Hand Cream is in the March Allure Beauty Box.

This hydrating treatment douses dry digits (and palms and cuticles) with nourishing aloe and grape seed oil, plus moisture-locking glycerin and sodium hyaluronate. It also blends and dries down fast and doesn’t leave any sort of tacky finish, which is one of my hand lotion pet peeves—I shouldn’t see it on my keyboard!

I usually use about two dime-size dollops (nickel, if it’s super cold out), and then massage in, making sure to get the tips of my fingers to my wrist bones. Then, because it comes in a chic, easy-to-transport aluminum tube, I’ll toss it in my purse, gym bag, or even in my carry-on!

The Grown Alchemist Soothing Hand Cream is in the March Allure Beauty Box.

GET THE BOX

Grown Alchemist Soothing Hand Cream

$32 at Grown Alchemist$32 at Grown Alchemist

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

Nothing beats finding (and slathering on) the best body moisturizers for itchy skin when your skin is seriously uncomfortable. While they're not always the buzziest products on the shelf, that doesn't really matter: These formulas always feel like a sigh of relief in a bottle, especially when flakes start forming, redness surges, and the urge to scratch becomes almost impossible to ignore.

Products designed specifically for reactive skin harness ingredients like squalane and ceramides, which strengthen your skin barrier (the protective layer that guards against external irritants) and boost moisture retention, calming skin, and stopping the itch-scratch cycle. Because, yes, it actually is possible to stop scratching and take your skin from dry and rough to soft and radiant. To help you get there, we spoke to Allure editors and board-certified dermatologists about their favorite body moisturizers for itchy skin, what causes itchiness to begin with, and exactly how to choose the best formula for your needs.

Our Top Body Moisturizers for Itchy Skin

• Best Overall: Kiehl’s Ultra Body Mega Moisture Squalane Cream, $49
• Best Lightweight: OSEA Hyaluronic Body Serum, $48
• Best for Barrier Repair: Aestura Atobarrier 365 Ceramide Lotion, $32
• Best Drugstore: Lubriderm Daily Moisture Lotion, $15
• Best for Sensitive Skin: Soft Services Carea Cream, $40
• Best Fast-Absorbing: Nécessaire The Body Serum, $52
• Best for Super Dry Skin: Isdin Uradin Lotion 10 Hydrating Body Lotion for Dry Skin, $42

Frequently Asked QuestionsAccordionItemContainerButtonLargeChevron

• What do dermatologists recommend for extremely dry, itchy skin?
• How should I choose a lotion for dry, itchy skin?
• What cream stops itching fast?
• Meet the experts
• How we test and review products
• Our staff and testers

Best Overall: Kiehl’s Ultra Body Mega Moisture Squalane Cream

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Kiehl's

Ultra Body Mega Moisture Squalane Cream

$49

Amazon

$49

Nordstrom

$49

Ulta Beauty

Allure contributing commerce editor Deanna Pai applying the Kiehl’s Ultra Body Mega Moisture Squalane Cream

Deanna Pai

Why it's worth it: Even though Kiehl’s already has a reputation for sensitive skin-friendly formulas, the Ultra Body Mega Moisture Squalane Cream goes even further by targeting skin that’s both extra-dry and easily irritated. “This is a great, gentle product that will provide the skin with lots of hydration and also support the skin's barrier health,” says Anna Chacon, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in Miami. She also notes that it’s “not too thick,” fast-absorbing, and has a light, non-greasy texture that won’t trigger sensitivity. The formula leans on two key ingredients for itchy, reactive skin: squalane and ceramides, which “strengthen and repair your skin barrier while moisturizing the skin,” Dr. Chacon explains. That combo helps calm irritation, reduce the urge to scratch, and keep skin hydrated for up to three days—making it a rare, barrier-boosting body cream that works for skin conditions like eczema, rosacea, and psoriasis.

Tester feedback from contributing commerce editor Deanna Pai

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“Moisturizing from head to toe is non-negotiable—or else my skin gets so itchy that it wakes me up in the middle of the night. I’ve used a lot of body butters, some better than others, but what sets this apart is its whipped texture, which is nourishing enough to keep me from scratching, but sinks in immediately. It’s been a godsend as the temperatures rise, since I don’t have to worry about waiting for it to absorb. And a little goes a long way, so I’m hoping the tub lasts me through summer.” —Deanna Pai, contributing commerce writer

More to know

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• Key ingredients: squalane, glacial glycoproteins, pro-ceramides
• Fragrance-free: yes

Best Lightweight: OSEA Hyaluronic Body Serum

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Osea

Hyaluronic Body Serum

$48

Amazon

$48

Nordstrom

$48

Ulta Beauty

Allure senior commerce director Shanna Shipin applying the OSEA Hyaluronic Body Serum

Shanna Shipin

Why it's worth it: While it’s not technically a lotion, this 2024 Best of Beauty Award winner deserves a mention for how incredibly lightweight it feels on the skin. The creamy gel texture of Osea’s Hyaluronic Acid Body Serum glides on easily, leaving a hydrating layer without ever being greasy or sticky (it is a serum after all). Its standout feature comes from five different molecular weights of hyaluronic acid to hydrate at different levels of the skin—smaller molecules help draw moisture deeper, while larger ones sit closer to the surface to smooth and lock in water. Blue-green algae extract provides antioxidant benefits and minerals that help support the skin barrier and soothe dryness, whileniacinamide helps improve overall skin texture. It can be applied to damp or dry skin post-shower, and, because it dries so quickly, it makes a great base for your thicker body lotions or oils. Just ensure it’s all absorbed before layering anything on top.

Tester feedback from senior commerce director Shanna Shipin

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"Whenever possible, I moisturize my body like my face: With a hyaluronic acid serum—and this one from Osea is my all-time favorite. I'll admit that part of what I love is the packaging. The serene green, the fogged glass, and the pump top that actually works. (By the way, it lets just enough serum out of the bottle without getting clogged—a feat for a thin formula like this!). This serum is so hydrating that you could just as well leave it without a more occlusive buttery layer over it, especially when it's irritatingly hot or humid. Still, I do like to follow up with an actual lotion afterward. In the formula, there are peptides to plump up the skin and the brand's signature blue-green algae that are touted as a kind of nourishing superfood. And for fellow sensitive-skin people out there, the serum is fragrance-free! I was able to use it on my preggo and postpartum body without irritating my typically sensitive skin." —Shanna Shipin, senior commerce director

More to know

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• Key ingredients: hyaluronic acid, niacinamide, blue-green algae
• Fragrance-free: yes

Best for Barrier Repair: Aestura Atobarrier 365 Ceramide Lotion

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Aestura

Atobarrier 365 Lotion

$32

Amazon

$32

Sephora

Allure commerce producer Sarah Hoffmann applying the Aestura Atobarrier 365 Ceramide Lotion

Sarah Hoffmann

Why it's worth it: The 2024 Best of Beauty Award-winning Aestura Atobarrier 365 Ceramide Lotion is a K-beauty staple that's equally beloved stateside. Claire Chang, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in New York City, loves that this lotion has the National Eczema Association Seal of Acceptance—meaning it has been evaluated for safety on eczema-prone skin and is free from common irritants, making it a reassuring pick for anyone dealing with itchy skin, even if eczema isn’t the cause. She notes that it's "hypoallergenic and formulated with a patented blend of barrier-strengthening ceramides—great for those with sensitive skin or eczema." A blend of ceramides, cholesterol, and fatty acids mimics your skin's natural lipids, boosting moisture retention, while niacinamide adds even more hydration.

Tester feedback from commerce producer Sarah Hoffmann

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"If I ever magically became low maintenance, this lotion would be a key player in my pared-down routine. I love how it works on my face, and I've recently come around to using it on my body, and it's equally excellent for both. The texture borders on watery, so it absorbs quickly and doesn't feel greasy or heavy. My skin is generally sensitive to fragrance and richer formulas, so I love how gentle this lotion is while still being very hydrating and soothing." —Sarah Hoffmann, commerce producer

More to know

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• Key ingredients: ceramides, squalane, niacinamide, cholesterol, fatty acids
• Fragrance-free: yes

Best Drugstore: Lubriderm Daily Moisture Lotion

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Lubriderm

Daily Moisture Lotion

$15 $12 (20% off)

Amazon (24 fl oz.)

$10

Walmart (16 fl oz.)

Allure senior editor Jesa Marie Calaor applying the Lubriderm Daily Moisture Lotion

Jesa Marie Calaor

Why it's worth it: Skin-care aficionados know that sometimes, the most no-frills packaging boasts the absolute best formulas. Exhibit A: Lubriderm’s Daily Moisture Lotion. You'll spot this humble lotion on the shelves of any drugstore—and on the recommendation lists of countless dermatologists. Packed with barrier-strengthening pro-ceramides, deeply moisturizing shea butter, and hydrating glycerin, this lightweight cream sinks in quickly and delivers 24-hour moisture without clogging pores. Bonus: It's versatile enough to use from face to feet (and everywhere in between). The original formula is lightly scented, but those with sensitivities can opt for the fragrance-free version. And if you need extra itch relief? The brand's Advanced Therapy Lotion is another great pick.

Tester feedback from senior beauty editor Jesa Marie Calaor

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"Maybe it's because I have a dry skin type. Perhaps it's because I take pretty hot showers. But my body needs to be moisturized daily, or I get lines and cracks on my hands, arms, and legs. The Lubriderm Daily Moisture Lotion is lightweight and quickly absorbs to feel silky (but not sticky or greasy). It also has a very clean scent, which I appreciate, since strongly scented body care products can overwhelm me." —Jesa Marie Calaor, senior beauty editor

More to know

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• Key ingredients: ceramides, shea butter, glycerin
• Fragrance-free: no

Best for Sensitive Skin: Soft Services Carea Cream

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Soft Services

Carea Cream

$40

Soft Services

Allure contributing commerce writer Christa Joanna Lee applying the Soft Services Carea Cream

Christa Joanna Lee

Why it’s worth it: Soft Services’ Carea Cream is a lightweight, healing option for people with dehydrated skin for whom thick creams might feel suffocating. The formula contains 10% urea (a compound naturally found in skin), which Michele Green, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in New York City, calls “a powerful moisturizing ingredient that helps with protecting [the skin’s] moisture from the environment."

Urea also mildly exfoliates, sloughing off dead skin buildup and smoothing bumps. The inclusion of 5% squalane further conditions and hydrates skin, and colloidal oatmeal calms and soothes moderate itching. Gentle enough for daily full-body use, this lotion not only alleviates dryness but also helps prevent recurrence by locking in long-lasting moisture.

Tester feedback from contributing commerce writer Christa Joanna Lee

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“I’m the person who will always forget to put on body lotion because I’m rushing to get dressed—and then spend the rest of the day wondering why my arms feel like sandpaper (hi, KP). This body lotion is the first formula that’s actually made me want to slow down and use it: It has this almost milky, run-off-your-fingers texture, but once it absorbs, it’s unbelievably silky and leaves zero residue behind. I can’t stop talking about how amazing it feels. Soft Services, you have me convinced.” —Christa Joanna Lee, contributing commerce writer

More to know

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• Key ingredients: urea, squalane, colloidal oatmeal
• Fragrance-free: yes

Best Fast-Absorbing: Nécessaire The Body Serum

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Nécessaire

The Body Serum

$52

Amazon

$52

Nordstrom

$52

Nécessaire

Allure senior commerce editor Sarah Felbin applying the Nécessaire The Body Serum

Sarah Felbin

Why we love it: Hate rubbing in your cream or serum for minutes? Nécessaire’s The Body Serum melts in like a dream and never feels heavy. While it’s a body serum and not a cream, “this is great for those with highly sensitive, itchy skin,” says Dr. Chacon. She also notes that the formula—approved by the National Eczema Association—is fragrance-free, hypoallergenic, non-comedogenic, and made without silicones, phthalates, or parabens. It features glycerin, niacinamide, and five molecular weights of hyaluronic acid, which hydrate both the surface and deeper layers of the skin for longer-lasting moisture. Dr. Chacon also loves that it’s “not sticky, not greasy, and still leaves skin hydrated, plump, and restored.”

Tester feedback from senior commerce editor Sarah Felbin

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“Lotion haters, this one's for you. I'm not a fan of super-heavy creams and body butters because I don't love the greasy feeling that often comes with them, but my constantly dry, itchy skin needs a layer of something after I shower. This serum is ultra-lightweight and only takes a few seconds to rub in, but it is still impressively hydrating. My skin immediately feels softer and looks radiant after I apply it. It's been a godsend for my legs especially, which always feel extra-prickly after I shave." —Sarah Felbin, senior commerce editor

More to know

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• Key ingredients: glycerin, hyaluronic acid, ceramides, niacinamide
• Fragrance-free: yes

Best for Super Dry Skin: Isdin Uradin Lotion 10 Hydrating Body Lotion for Dry Skin

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Isdin

Uradin Lotion10 Hydrating Body Moisturizer

$42

Amazon

$42

Dermstore

Lee applying the Isdin Uradin Lotion 10 Hydrating Body Lotion for Dry Skin

Christa Joanna Lee

Why it’s worth it: With 10% urea and 3% dexpanthenol, Isdin’s Uradin Lotion 10 is one to get excited about if you have super dry skin. “Urea is an excellent ingredient because it both hydrates and gently softens rough, dehydrated skin,” says Alexandra Bowles, DO, a board-certified dermatologist based in Cincinnati, OH. She says it improves moisture retention while subtly improving texture, which can make skin appear smoother. Dexpanthenol, a derivative of vitamin B5 that promotes skin healing, helps relieve itchiness often associated with dryness. We love this lotion for topping off a hydrating serum for double the moisture. And while we often joke about wanting to bathe in a lotion we love, the generously sized pump makes it feel like you practically can.

Tester feedback from Lee

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“I’ve dealt with keratosis pilaris for years, and the backs of my arms can get so desert-dry, which only makes those little bumps more noticeable. My calves aren’t much better—I’ll scratch in my sleep and wake up with marks from how itchy they get. I’d somehow never tried a lotion with urea before, so Isdin’s Uradin Lotion 10 felt like a bit of a revelation. It softens and smooths all my rough patches (even the elbows!) while pulling moisture into the skin, and it sinks in quickly without feeling sticky. Even five or six hours after applying it, my skin still feels soft and comfortably moisturized.”—Christa Joanna Lee, contributing commerce writer

More to know

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• Key ingredients: 10% urea, 3% dexpanthenol
• Fragrance-free: yes

Best Rich: Fount Society Body Butter

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Fount Society

Body Butter

$48

Amazon

Felbin applying the Fount Society Body Butter

Sarah Felbin

Why it’s worth it: Fount Society’s Body Butter contains a combination of highly moisturizing shea butter and squalane, along with soothing allantoin, vitamin E, panthenol, and chamomile, all of which signal that this formula is especially geared towards those with sensitive skin. It also includes an ingredient you don’t typically see in beauty formulas: sea fennel, a coastal plant packed with antioxidants that help brighten, firm, and nourish the skin. While the formula is thicker than a typical lotion, it absorbs instantly and doesn’t leave any residue behind—instead, skin looks glowy and feels softer. Slather it on before bed on damp or dry skin, and wake up to silky skin that lasts all through the entire next day.

Tester feedback from Felbin

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“I use this product at night, after every shower. I have super-sensitive skin and I don't like applying body lotion (that dreaded sticky feeling!), so the bar is pretty high. This one is so thick, calming, and soothing that I actually look forward to putting it on after I step out of the shower. It takes a minute to rub in, but it feels incredibly nourishing and doesn't leave any residue behind, so I don't mind. The whole next day, I'm surprised by how soft and smooth my skin feels. It's also a great value—it's so rich and moisturizing that one tub has lasted me months. Plus, it's fragrance-free!”—Sarah Felbin, senior commerce editor

More to know

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• Key ingredients: shea butter, sea fennel, squalane
• Fragrance-free: yes

Best for Dry Patches: Aquaphor Healing Ointment

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Aquaphor

Healing Ointment

$14 $13 (7% off)

Amazon

$17

Ulta Beauty

Why we love it: Whether you know Aquaphor’s Healing Ointment in the tube or the classic tub, chances are it needs no introduction. “This petroleum-based ointment creates an occlusive barrier that prevents transepidermal water loss and supercharges repair,” says Sarah Sung, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in Seattle. This means this ointment is completely water-free and seals in moisture so your skin can heal without suffocating, while still letting oxygen pass through. That balance, along with soothing and hydrating panthenol and glycerin, is what makes it so good at repairing a compromised barrier.

“Especially when used overnight, patients most often tell me they wake up with noticeably softer, less inflamed patches,” says Dr. Sung. It is super thick, so the ointment is not meant to be used everywhere—Dara Spearman, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in Fort Wayne, IN, likes using it for hands, elbows, and areas prone to fissures. Dr. Sung adds that it’s also great for chapped lips or eczema flare-ups around the eyes.

More to know

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• Key ingredients: panthenol, glycerin, petrolatum
• Fragrance-free: yes

Best for Eczema: La Roche-Posay Lipikar Soothing Relief Eczema Cream

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La Roche-Posay

Lipikar Soothing Relief Eczema Cream

$17

Amazon

$17

Dermstore

$19

Ulta Beauty

Why we love it: Another affordable, National Eczema Association-approved formula on our list, La Roche-Posay’s Lipikar Soothing Relief Eczema Cream is built for anyone dealing with persistent redness, itchiness, or flare-ups. The star is 1% colloidal oatmeal, a proven skin protectant that helps calm irritation on contact, but it’s the supporting ingredients that make it especially effective: “Shea butter, niacinamide, and colloidal oatmeal combine to soothe visible redness and heat on contact,” says Dr. Sung. While glycerin and thermal spring water promote lasting moisture, she also notes, “Many of my patients report a more even skin tone after just a couple of weeks of use.” The fast-absorbing texture makes it easy to use daily—whether you’re treating redness on your face or body.

More to know

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• Key ingredients: 1% colloidal oatmeal, shea butter, glycerin, niacinamide, thermal spring water
• Fragrance-free: yes

Best for Face and Body: CeraVe Moisturizing Cream

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CeraVe

Moisturizing Cream

$20 $19 (5% off)

Amazon

$18

Dermstore

$20

Ulta Beauty

Why we love it: When we asked dermatologists for their go-to for dry, itchy skin, drugstore hero CeraVe’s Moisturizing Cream came up again and again. Kate Edwards, MD, a board-certified dermatologist in San Antonio, considers it a go-to for patients suffering from dry, itchy skin, while Michele Green, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in New York City, calls out its contents of hyaluronic acid, ceramides, and other humectants as ideal for locking in moisture and boosting hydration. While it’s thick, Brendan Camp, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in New York City, says its rich texture never feels greasy, making it ideal for moderate to severe dryness. This cream is fragrance-free and completely non-irritating, making it a great choice for those with any level of skin sensitivity who need intense hydration and itch relief. Sexy? Maybe not. But it’s a reliable, powerful workhorse that’s a classic for good reason, and its undeniable efficacy makes it a great first port of call for treating dry and itchy skin.

​​Tester feedback from contributor Kaleigh Fasanella

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"It feels almost like a weighted blanket—but for the skin—cocooning my chronically dry limbs and soothing them on days when it's especially sensitive and inflamed. If I had to propose one con, it would be that I go through the stuff like water." —Kaleigh Fasanella, contributor

More to know

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• Key ingredients: ceramides, hyaluronic acid, petrolatum
• Fragrance-free: yes

Best for Immediate Relief: Aveeno Eczema Therapy Daily Moisturizing Cream

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Aveeno

Eczema Therapy Daily Moisturizing Cream

$20

Amazon

$20

Walmart

Why it’s worth it: According to Dr. Camp, oatmeal is one of the most effective soothing ingredients for calming inflammation and itch—and that’s exactly what’s in Aveeno’s Eczema Therapy Daily Moisturizing Cream. “It strengthens the skin barrier while providing immediate comfort to irritated skin,” says Dr. Camp. It also contains ceramides, glycerin, and panthenol, which draw moisture into the skin and keep it cool, calm, and collected. Because this cream is clinically tested for eczema-prone and sensitive skin, it’s a great option for anyone experiencing persistent dryness with bouts of irritation.

More to know

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• Key ingredients: oatmeal, ceramides, glycerin, panthenol
• Fragrance-free: yes

Frequently Asked Questions

What do dermatologists recommend for extremely dry, itchy skin?

According to Dr. Green, the best thing to do for dry, itchy skin is to apply moisturizer liberally and multiple times a day. According to dermatologists, thick creams with high oil concentrations are especially effective for locking in moisture and hydrating the skin (Dr. Edwards even suggests skin-sealing petroleum jelly like Vaseline). Dr. Green recommends looking for moisturizers with ingredients such as hyaluronic acid, which pulls in water from the environment; glycerin, which acts as a humectant to retain moisture; colloidal oats, which reduce inflammation; and ceramides, which restore the skin barrier. However, she cautions against products containing irritants like alcohol and fragrances, as they can exacerbate dryness. Dr. Edwards also advises looking for the blue seal that says, "Accepted by the National Eczema Foundation" when picking out a moisturizing product.

In addition to using hydrating lotions. Dr. Green recommends washing dry, itchy skin with a product like a soothing colloidal oatmeal bath treatment before using a gentle, hydrating cleanser, thoroughly rinsing the area, then applying moisturizer. Dr. Edwards endorses the "soak and grease" method, which consists of bathing daily for five to ten minutes in lukewarm (not hot!) water, then applying a thick moisturizer immediately after exiting the bath or shower and patting dry. Dry, itchy skin can sometimes be associated with overactive histamines, and suggests taking a daily antihistamine until the condition has resolved.

How should I choose a lotion for dry, itchy skin?

Dr. Edwards emphasizes looking for products that feature ceramides to help lock in moisture naturally lost throughout the day. Dr. Green also advocates for products with urea, which soothes skin in addition to providing hydration. However, for severe itching or eczema-prone skin, both doctors advise that topical prescription steroids may be needed to calm down inflammation resulting from a compromised skin barrier.

What cream stops itching fast?

According to Dr. Edwards, topical steroid creams such as hydrocortisone are one of the quickest and most effective ways to relieve itching. Dr. Green recommends using over-the-counter hydrocortisone twice a day on the affected area to help soothe itchiness.

On the flip side, Dr. Edwards strongly discourages the use of any Benadryl creams or gels, which are ineffective at stopping itch and can often lead to the development of an allergy to the product that will worsen a rash. Both doctors recommend speaking to your dermatologist if over-the-counter treatments are not providing enough relief, and using any prescribed topical steroid exactly as directed while avoiding overuse.

Meet the experts

• Alexandra Bowles, DO, a board-certified dermatologist based in Cincinnati, OH
• Anna Chacon, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in Miami
• Brendan Camp, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in New York City
• Claire Chang, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in New York City
• Dara Spearman, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in Fort Wayne, IN
• Kate Edwards, MD, a board-certified dermatologist in San Antonio, Texas
• Michele Green, MD, a board-certified dermatologist in New York City

How we test and review products

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

For our list of the best body lotions for dry, itchy skin, 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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Of all the throwback hair accessories I've loved and lost, there's one that holds a shall-we-say special place in my nostalgia-loving heart: the accordion headband. Now, my youthful experimentations with this stretchy style weren't exactly camera ready, as it was constantly getting tangled in my thick, wavy hair. But wasn't it so much fun to wear? It was basically like being Lizzie McGuire. The accordion headband, also known as a stretch comb or zig-zag headband, feels like a time machine back to the '90s and early 2000s, but it had a moment in the spotlight at Paris Fashion Week thanks to The X-Files star Gillian Anderson and the fashionable folks at Miu Miu.

Anderson walked the runway at the fashion house's fall/winter 2026-2027 show in the very familiar yet very surprising accessory. The comb headband was placed near her hairline and gently pushed back, with the rest of her blonde hair worn loose and brushed over her shoulder to show off her Miu Miu outfit.

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It seems like Anderson enjoyed wearing the stretchy comb headband, as she was spotted in it after the show too, styled with her IRL clothes.

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We've seen this throwback hair accessory make a comeback before, including on noted Y2K style fan Bella Hadid and Alexa Demie as Maddy Perez on Euphoria. And Anderson wasn't the only ‘90s superstar wearing an accordion headband on the Miu Miu runway, either; we also spotted Chlöe Sevingy in one! (Some of the male models wore them too.) So is the stretchy comb headband officially back? That remains to be seen, but if you want to bring a bit of that signature Miu Miu cool to your spring looks, it might be time to pop by your local drugstore or go searching through your middle school hair accessory stash!

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We didn’t call it a wolf cut back in the day, but this coolness-enhancing, choppy cut conjures up images of the ’80s: tough teens in Van Halen raglan tees driving beat-up cars with metallic blue paint jobs. Thankfully, the 2026 take doesn’t require cutting class to smoke in the boys’ room. This haircut is all about wearable, retro layers—and vibes.

“It feels a little cheeky and rebellious,” says Chris Russell, a Los Angeles-based hairstylist. “For a while, everything felt very polished and controlled, and the wolf cut pushes back against that. It embraces texture, movement, and a little bit of messiness.” The more effortless it looks, he says, the better.

The cut’s popularity—and clever name—originated in Korea in the early 2000s, according to Jordan M, a hairstylist at Beauty Supply in New York City. “The momentum for the wolf cut has been pushed by early K-pop bands, Billie Eilish, Squid Games, and, most recently, K-Pop Demon Hunters,” he says. “Its influence has only grown through TikTok and Instagram.”

“I think if the shag and the mullet had a baby, you would get the wolf cut,” says Sophie Rose Gutterman, a hairstylist in Los Angeles. But don’t let the word “mullet” intimidate you. The wolf cut is not nearly as stark or ironic, and it’s actually quite versatile and easy to style, much like other types of shags.

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Billy Hannam, a hairstylist at Anushka Spa & Salon in Palm Beach, explains that the difference between a wolf cut and a conventional shag comes from the shape of the perimeter: “While both styles are known for their abundance of layers and movement and texture, shags tend to be a bit softer and generally blended all around, whereas a wolf cut tends to have varying severities or disconnection based on the desired look.”

To demonstrate the difference between a shag, a mullet, and a wolf cut, here's Kristen Stewart:

Kristen Stewart with a shag.

Photo: Getty Images

Kristen Stewart with a mullet.

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Kristen Stewart with a wolf cut.

Photo: Getty Images

Thanks, Kristen.

Wolf cuts are also highly adaptable to both length and texture, looking incredible whether you polish it pin-straight with a flatiron or roll right out of bed and embrace frizz. “This cut in particular can not only be styled in so many different ways, but it also allows anyone who doesn’t like to style their hair to have a fun shape they can wash and go with,” says Gutterman, who adds that the layering also provides fullness to flat hair.

“Your stylist can help navigate what will work best with your hair type and the level of effort you’re willing to put in,” Hannam says, insisting that you bring reference photos to the salon. Don’t worry—we’ve got you covered with plenty of visual inspo below.

Wolf Cuts for Short Hair

Gutterman loves a short wolf cut because you can put as much or as little effort into it as you feel like on any given day. “What’s so great about this is that you can either wash and go and add some salt spray, or use a curling iron to add some texture,” she says. (We love V&Co. Beauty Wave Babe Texturizing Pink Salt Spray because it adds grit without stiffness.) Ask your stylist for lots of short layers and a nice, rounded fringe. “I like to slide cut just in the front to keep the shape at the bottom,” Gutterman adds.

Bangs are a big part of short wolf cuts. “You want the bangs to feel piecey rather than blunt, and face-framing layers that create lift around the cheekbones and through the crown,” says Russell, who likes using a razor to create this shape because it keeps the texture soft.

“For styling at home, the goal is to enhance texture,” he adds, recommending STMNT Spray Powder for rough texture and grip. “I love a flatiron like Sutra IR2 Infrared Flat Iron for wolf cuts because you can bend some sections, keep others straighter, and really control the movement of each layer to get that effortless, lived-in finish.”

Photo: Getty ImagesPhoto: Getty ImagesPhoto: Getty Images

Wolf Cuts for Medium-Length Hair

For a medium-length wolf cut, Gutterman says you want your longest layer to hit somewhere between your shoulders and your chest; your shortest layer may sit as high as your bangs. “If you plan to have long curtain bangs, you can match that length,” Hannam says. But if you have micro bangs, your stylist may want to start your shortest layer closer to your ears. “It’s a super-customizable haircut.”

As for styling, Gutterman encourages you to work with your natural texture. Got curls? She recommends massaging a curl-enhancing product, such as DevaCurl Ultra Defining Gel, into wet hair before scrunching and diffusing. She says to let your hair, the weather, and the day do the rest of the styling work.

“Straight hair types will require more manipulation with a blow-dryer or hot tools,” says Hannam. And styling products are key. "Hair textures with more movement will require some paste, maybe some mousse, or hold cream,” he adds. Gutterman recommends those with a straight wolf cut try a texture foam; we’re especially fond of The Doux Mousse Def Texture Foam and Living Proof Full Texturizing Foam.

Photo: Getty ImagesPhoto: Getty ImagesPhoto: Getty Images

Wolf Cuts for Long Hair

A long wolf cut is ideal for anyone who’s been itching to do something noticeably different with their hair without losing their beloved length. “Always tell your stylist what’s important to you, like maintaining thickness on the ends or wanting as much volume as possible,” Hannam says.

“Ask your stylist for choppy layers concentrated through the crown to create lift while maintaining length through the perimeter,” says Russell, who adds that razor cutting works well because it keeps the layers light and airy.

“This version of the wolf cut gives sexy and cool at the same time,” says Gutterman. “I love using a curling iron and winding the sections in different directions.” We recommend the Best of Beauty Award-winning T3 CurlWrap Auto-Rotating Curling Iron because it does the winding for you and lets you choose from a whopping nine different heat settings.

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

Just remember that, depending on your hair, the wolf cut you envision may not be the one you end up with—and that’s okay. Go to your consultation with an open mind, honesty about how much time you’re willing to put into styling, plus a few reference photos, and you’ll leave with your ideal wolf cut.

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TL;DR:

• What it is: A cream blush
• What it does: Adds a pretty flush and radiance to any makeup look
• Who it’s for: Anyone looking for a dewy, cream-based blush

As a former Floridian, warm weather year-round was my norm. I had never experienced seasons until I moved to New York—and boy, did I learn fast. Thirteen years in, and the snow still dries me nuts, but I’ve since formed a soft spot for spring. It may not be the most glamorous of the seasons (rain showers, I’m talking about you), but I like that it signals the start of something new.

In the beauty world, that usually means I’m packing up my powders and pulling out my cream-based products (finally!). Gone are the days of flat matte. Instead, I’m all about the glow—even in my blush.

I love the Rose Inc Cream Blush Refillable Cheek & Lip Color for this exact reason. It’s a two-in-one, melts-into-your-skin rouge that gives both lips and cheeks an instant flush with the prettiest sheen-like finish.

The formula itself is made with hydrating ingredients (hyaluronic acid, squalane, and vitamin E) to add moisture, along with some color, whenever you apply it. It’s also super blendable and buildable. While you can use whatever tool is in your arsenal (brush, sponge), I prefer to tap it on using my fingers. First, I swirl one or two fingers in the pan, then take it straight to my cheeks, working my way up to my temples. I do this a few times to reach my desired intensity, then spritz on some setting spray and call it a day.

No matter what shade you go with (I really like the light pink Hydrangea), the result is always a really dewy, rosy finish that glows.

The Rose Inc Cream Blush Refillable Cheek & Lip Color is in the March Allure Beauty Box.

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Rose Inc Cream Blush Refillable Cheek & Lip Color

$32 at Rose Inc$32 at Rose Inc

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Fragrance can act as a power suit when stakes feel high. Like the perfectly tailored ensemble, the right scent can shift your posture, steady your breathing, and help you summon the poise you need to face any situation. If you think this comparison sounds flimsy, consider this: A study cited a survey that found 65% of its participants felt confident when wearing fragrance. Additional research into the mind-smell connection found that scent-wearers fidgeted less.

Your individual power scent is deeply personal. For some, it's a razor-sharp citrus that helps hone their skills during a presentation, while others take an understated approach with a woody musk that feels like a comforting embrace. No single note can define this kind of emotional armor, but we asked 10 masters of their craft which fragrances they reach for when they want to feel (and smell) unstoppable.

Simone Biles, Olympic gymnast

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Simone Biles is best known for medaling 30 times at the Olympics (23 of those medals are gold, by the way). Despite her stoic appearance on the mat, the Ohio native still feels the pressure of competing. Spritzing on perfume is one way she grounds herself. “It helps me feel calm, present, and confident,” she says.

Biles adds that she’s gone through “an insane number of bottles” of Burberry Goddess Eau de Parfum, a warm and spicy gourmand featuring three kinds of vanilla. “It makes me feel powerful, unique, and beautiful,” she says, noting that whenever she wears it, “good things happen.”

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Shirley Chen, actor

Ty Chen

Shirley Chen doesn’t wear perfume every day, but when she does, it’s for an extra boost of energy. The actor, who stars in Netflix’s upcoming series The Body, says Boy Smells LES adds excitement to her day: “It makes me feel fun, flirty, and light, like I have a cheeky little secret up my sleeve.”

Jasmine Tookes, model and co-founder of Brunel

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Jasmine Tookes reaches for a very specific scent combo on days when she wants to have a more commanding presence, whether she’s walking down a runway or heading out for a fun night with friends. After showering, she slathers her skin in her body-care brand’s Renewal Oil, which smells like lavender; she then layers Byredo Bal d’Afrique Eau de Parfum, a rich, woody-floral, on top. Says Tookes, “It’s the sexiest combo.”

Tabitha Brown, actor, author, and founder of Donna’s Recipe

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Tabitha Brown is the internet’s favorite auntie and jack of all trades: vegan chef, author, actor, hair-care and fragrance brand founder, and an Allure Best of Beauty Award winner (thanks to her decadent Sweet Potato Pie Hair Cream). Brown says that smelling like her husband makes her feel most confident as she takes on her many endeavors. She sprays on her brand’s suede-and-musk scent, His Business. Adds Brown, “It makes me feel sexy, unique, and powerful.”

Sandrine Charles, founder of Sandrine Charles Consulting and cofounder of Black in Fashion Council

BFA

Sandrine Charles’s resumé alone commands respect, but she always strives to also make a lasting impression when conducting business in person. She arrives at meetings in a crisp suit and a mist of Chanel No. 5 Eau de Parfum (an aldehydic floral), which she appreciates for how unapologetically feminine it is. “I love being a girly girl,” Charles says. “For meetings, I wear it alone or occasionally mix it with Chloé Eau de Parfum. It makes me feel divine.”

Dianna Cohen, founder of Crown Affair

Julian Cousins

One of the first things you’ll notice when using Dianna Cohen’s hair-care line Crown Affair is its subtly herbaceous scent, and that’s intentional. “Scent can transform a daily ritual into something evocative and meaningful,” she says.

When Cohen combines her hair products with D.S. & Durga I Don’t Know What Eau de Parfum (which has notes of bergamot and vetiver), she feels ready to face whatever life throws at her, whether it’s her wedding or a work event. “There’s a quiet confidence to it,” she says. “It makes me feel comfortable in my own skin, like the best version of me.”

Sabrina Elba, S’Able Labs cofounder

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Sabrina Elba glows when she enters a room, whether attending a fashion show or a press event for her skin-care brand, S’Able Labs. On her most demanding days, she wears Maison Crivelli Hibiscus Mahajad Extrait de Parfum for a boost. Says Elba, the blend of hibiscus, leather, and vanilla makes her “feel powerful, yet sensual.” She layers it with Calvin Klein Eternity, a fresh woody-floral that balances the heady extrait.

Dara Levy, founder of Dermaflash

Courtesy of Dermaflash

Dara Levy’s passions aren’t limited to removing peach fuzz and dead skin from complexions. The skin-care device brand founder is also always “on the hunt for the perfect fragrance.” Despite having a luxury-fragrance wardrobe, she always returns to The Body Shop White Musk fragrance mist: “I’ve been wearing it since I was in my 20s,” she says.

Levy feels commanding when she’s at her most peaceful, which is another reason she reaches for this skin scent. “It makes me feel serene,” she adds.

Zanna Roberts Rassi, style correspondent for E! and cofounder of Milk Makeup

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Before Zanna Roberts Rassi hits the red carpet, she reaches for Lovely and a Little Twisted, an eau de parfum by Lore. “It’s what I wear when I want to feel in control but also ready to have a little fun,” she says. The sweet, floral fragrance is anchored by an amber accord. “It’s an instant conversation starter,” she adds. “Stars have stopped me on the red carpet mid-flow to ask what my scent is.”

Tata Harper, founder of Tata Harper Skincare

Courtesy of Tata Harper

Scent memories are huge motivators. For Tata Harper, this is especially true: She says that Ambra di Venezia Eau de Parfum—which features notes of jasmine, sandalwood, and juicy fruits—transports her back to moments spent with her inimitable grandmother in Barranquilla, Colombia, where she grew up. “Her presence was always so captivating,” Harper recalls. The notes of mandarin orange, mango, and lime undoubtedly remind Harper of home—providing a sense of comfort that gives her vigor to take on the day.