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With winged liner as sharp as her wit and contour as lethal as her comebacks, Maura Higgins has long been a beauty inspiration to the Irish and the Brits following her stint on Love Island. Now, after her recent turn on The Traitors, the Irish reality star’s hair and makeup is attracting the attention of fans here in the US. And what have we noticed? During her post-Traitors press run, she's started to switch things up in the blush department in the most interesting way.

We spotted it when Higgins hosted the red carpet for the premiere of A24’s latest film, The Drama, starring Zendaya and Robert Pattinson. Her blush is significantly higher and seems to be placed underneath her eyes, creating an especially snatched look (as if Higgins needed any more snatching). When we dug a little deeper, we noticed it’s something she’s been playing with a lot recently, working with makeup artist Patrick Ta who is long known for his love of blush and his unconventional application approach.

LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA – MARCH 17: Maura Higgins arrives at the Los Angeles Premiere Of A24’s "The Drama" at DGA Theater Complex on March 17, 2026 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Steve Granitz/FilmMagic)

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Under eye blush, which starts (you guessed it) under the eyes and extends to high points of the face, isn’t a new technique. When used under the eye and swept out towards the temples, it “sculpts and accentuates the highest points of the mid-face,” says makeup artist Andrew Denton. “The proximity to the eye adds width to the upper cheek due to the high placement, and that connection between the outer eye and the highest part of the cheekbone creates a lot of lift,” he adds.

Not only that, it can counteract darkness under the eyes, too. "If you’ve used color-correcting concealer, adding a pink-y powder blush on top will not only help set the concealer, but will also help neutralize any blue tones your concealer is struggling to tackle,” Denton says. This technique has inspired many brands to develop pink-toned setting powders, including the One Size Ultimate Blurring Setting Powder, Kosas Cloud Set Baked Setting & Smoothing Powder, and the Catrice Bright and Blur Setting Powder, all of which are Allure editor love and use.

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In a recent GRWM video, Ta demonstrated his layered blush approach on Higgins—and we took notes. He begins with a liquid blush in a bubblegum-pink shade (perhaps a new launch for Patrick Ta Beauty?), placing it directly on the middle of her under eyes and blending out with a fluffy brush. He follows this with liquid concealer applied along the inner and mid under-eye areas, avoiding the outer area to allow the blush underneath to peek through (he used his Major Skin Soft Blur Brightening Concealer, but we also love the Armani Beauty Perfect Glow Concealer, which won a Best of Beauty Award last year) . Next, Ta uses translucent loose powder to set the liquids and creams, which he then tops with his Major Headlines Double-Take Crème & Powder Blush Duos in She's Seductive and She's a Doll.

“I used here is my Transition Blush Technique, which is all about creating a seamless gradient so the blush melts into the skin rather than sitting on top of the makeup,” Ta explains. “It’s perfect for anyone who feels like their blush can look patchy or disconnected from the rest of the face.”

It’s a look that can be easily adapted for everyday wear. Denton notes that it's a helpful technique for days when you feel tired and “want to appear lifted, bright, and energized.” He recommends sticking to a blush shade you’re confident with, keeping placement lifted and high on the face, and never covering your entire under-eye area with blush, as this can draw the eye down when incorrectly placed.

As for Higgins, after experimenting with Ta, she appears to be a convert. The star has worn under-eye blush four or five times since, so it seems that she's staying 100% faithful to this clever little blush hack … for now.

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TL;DR:

• What it is: Hydrating toner pads
• What it does: Instantly soothes and adds hydration to skin
• Who it’s for: Anyone looking for an alternative to traditional liquid facial toners

Toners aren’t what they used to be 10, 20 years ago—and that’s a good thing. Gone are the days of harsh, alcohol-based treatments that strip skin. In, are hydrating formulas that soothe and plump. Today’s toners act more like a primer for your skin-care routine, New York-based board-certified dermatologist Arielle Kauvar, MD, previously told Allure. They prep your skin for all of the serums, moisturizers, and whatever else follows, helping them to absorb faster and deeper.

The K-beauty Skinfood Carrot Carotene Calming Water Pads, which are pre-soaked cotton pads made with carrot root extract and glycerin, do just that. I recently just got back from Florida with a really bad sunburn (kids, do as I say, not as I do!), and my skin has been aching for relief. I placed a few of these on my cheeks, down my neck, and on my shoulders, and not only did they feel amazing, but when I applied a rich cream shortly after, it definitely felt like the lotion blended in easier than ever. Perhaps it was just a placebo, but either way, my skin felt great! Well, as good as it could feel after getting accidentally annihilated by the sun. (My sister’s sunscreen had expired—how was I supposed to know? 😭)

For those without sunburns, after cleansing, place the cloths directly on skin in areas that need extra moisture, like cheeks or forehead. Leave them on for five to 10 minutes, then pat in any remaining essence—your skin will eat it right up!—before moving on to the rest of your routine (serum, moisturizer, and, dear god, sunscreen).

The Skinfood Carrot Carotene Calming Water Pad is in the March Allure Beauty Box.

GET THE BOX

Skinfood Carrot Carotene Calming Water Pads

$24 at Amazon$24 at Amazon

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Nothing says easy elegance quite like a French manicure. It goes with absolutely everything, from casual looks to formalwear. After a little early-2000s time on a downswing, the combo of a pink, translucent base and white tips has become a beautiful no-brainer for so many of us. But when you want the concept of a French manicure but with a little more edge, nothing balances sophistication and subversion quite like swapping in black tips—just like Demi Lovato did.

Lovato made an appearance on The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon, promoting her new book, One Plate at a Time: Recipes for Finding Freedom with Food, and her tour, It's Not That Deep. Yeah, she's definitely been keeping busy. But she always makes time to sit down with nail artist Natalie Minerva, most recently to get a black-tipped French manicure.

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“For Demi’s black French, we did a base color combination, or what I call ‘nail foundation,’” Minerva tells Allure, explaining that she can customize the hue with two shades of polish for a more seamless look. “I used one coat of OPI Bare My Soul, which is a lighter-toned milky nude, and one coat of Put It in Airplane Mode to give it a warmer hue. This made the base feel more accurately matched to her skin tone.”

From there, Minerva switched to one of the most iconic black polishes on the market. “I used OPI Black Onyx to create a medium-thickness French that matched the free edge of her round-shaped natural nails.”

While it may not be the most out-there option when it comes to nail art, it absolutely makes a major impact when you choose a color other than white for French tips—especially a bold black in contrast to a traditional pinky-nude base. It's basically “do no harm, but take no shit” in manicure form.

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Keke Palmer and I grew up together—at least in my mind. Saturday afternoons, I’d curl up on the couch with a snack to watch True Jackson, VP, the Nickelodeon series where a then–18-year-old Palmer played the effortlessly cool teen running a fashion company. The show aired in 2011, the same year I turned 12, and Palmer felt like a big sister living inside my TV. Over the years, I watched her evolve on screen, going from a sassy teen to a busy actor starring in films like One of Them Days and Nope. All the while, I was growing up too. So when we spoke recently over Zoom, the conversation felt surprisingly sentimental, as we bonded over washing our toddlers’ hair and figuring out how to set aside a little time for ourselves as working moms.

That sense of nostalgia deepened as we talked about her new partnership with Creme of Nature, for which she now serves as chief brand officer. For many Black girls, “we grew up using Creme of Nature,” says Palmer. The brand was a wash-day staple—something you’d almost always find in the bathroom cabinet. For Palmer, the partnership felt like a natural fit: both she and the brand are “OGs,” and helping usher Creme of Nature into “a more modern phase” reflects just how much she’s evolved in her own career.

These days, Palmer, 32, is embracing a new chapter—one that centers authenticity and flexibility in every area of her life. Fittingly, it comes with a new-ish hair moment: a spunky pixie cut that the actor debuted in August 2025. Ahead, she opens up about the big chop, her decision to go back to a relaxer, and the beauty rituals she’s now passing down to her toddler.

Allure: You’ve had your pixie for about seven months now. What inspired the bold chop?

Keke Palmer: For the past year or so, I’ve just been doing everything to my hair—especially with having the Creme of Nature products at my will—while also trying to keep it healthy with the color, and just keep a consistent hair care routine. And then I hit a moment where I became tired of maintaining my hair. I wanted something that matches the pace of my life.

I don't want to be bald yet. So the pixie lets me keep the flavor, style, funk, but at the same time, I can keep up with it day to day. Right now, I have this kind of boy band type of thing going on that I'm living for, where the ends are just spiked. I'm just having a ball with that.

Allure: How do you maintain the look?

Palmer: I get the sides and back cut every two weeks. I let the top grow out and get a refresher on my relaxer every four weeks.

I know a lot of people feel like the pixie is difficult, but if you have a good foam, some good edge control to add up in there and give it texture, and you're not afraid of letting some of your texture shine through, then you can enjoy your pixie cut and not be afraid to touch it. You also can get tons of build up so I do really love using the scalp wipes on my edges and the back of my hair.

Allure: Why did you decide to get a relaxer again, and what was that experience like for you?

Palmer: I've gone through the whole natural hair thing. I was doing that all last year, where I was really wanting to wear my ‘fro, especially after I did Nope. I was just flexing the natural look and playing with my hair in its most natural state. And I really did enjoy that. And then I decided I want to be flexible with something else, and I don't want to be chained to anything.

I want to be able to just be me. Right now, I'm India Arie. Tomorrow, I'm this. The next day, I'm that. It’s about freedom and flexibility. I'm here for women being able to do what they want. I think a lot of times, as a Black woman, the world is constantly telling you what you need to do and how you need to look to be beautiful, and I felt the weight of that earlier this year.

I was constantly wearing wigs, always having my edges glued down, and I was getting tired of that. Now, I’m leaning towards effortlessness, and that came in the form of a pixie cut and a relaxer. I don't want to flex long hair right now. I want to flex my face and my energy. I want people to see my whole vibe when I walk into the room.

Allure: How do you decide exactly what version of Keke you want to be on any given day?

Palmer: I base it on what I'm trying to say or evoke. I also let what I’m working on guide me. Whether I'm doing something that involves music, my personality, a photoshoot where I'm being more sexy, or whatever the case may be. I let that guide me. I also like to collaborate with the stylist I'm working with and get playful with it.

I think right now, my overall vibe is very focused on being free and being precise and authentic. And I think that's why I've been leaning so much into the pixie cut, because I think there's nothing that's more precise or has to be as accurate as a cut. It also feels freeing, because I'm not bound by the idea of what it means to have long hair.

Allure: What beauty and grooming traditions are you excited to pass down to your son?

Palmer: I love when we get our hair time, whether it's him getting it done by his hairstylist or me doing it. I just love it because it also makes him feel good to know that he's being taken care of. His routine is everything. And I think that's important, not just for babies, but for moms too, to have that moment of self-care with our hair. So I’ve definitely passed down that ritual of washing, conditioning, and protective styles.

He goes in and out of braids and then his ‘fro. I just use the same products I’m using myself, on him. But teaching him how to keep that hair scarf on is a freaking whole journey. He doesn't want to keep that on, girl. I need a baby durag line fast.

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Everyone has a hairstyle that they loved back in the day and never thought would come back in style. Mine is pick-and-drop braids, a style that involves micro base braids at the crown of the end that hang three inches and then cascade into loose waves or bouncy curls. It-Girls at the time, like Beyoncé and Brandy, popularized the style, while stars such as Chase Infiniti and Jordyn Woods keep the style in the spotlight—with a modern twist, of course.

Much like pick-and-drop braids of the past, the 2026 version starts with a base of braids. The length, however, is even longer and the braids blended more seamlessly into the loose hair at the ends. They're also more frequently created using human hair, which can be "more versatile and less harsh for this style," says Los Angeles-based hairstylist Larry Sims. In the '90s, braiders primarily used synthetic hair, mainly because that’s what was widely available, but which came with its fair share of knotting and matting.

Those aren't the only updates that make boho braids feel fresh and more covetable than ever. Some hairstylists place traditional sew-in or tape-in extensions at the back of the head to create a fuller look, and add knotless micro braids along the hairline using braiding hair, which is what hairstylist Coree Moreno did to create Chase Infiniti's gorgeous boho braid style for the 2026 Oscars.

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There's also a popular new method for creating boho braids, called miracle knots, that makes achieving the style easier than before. The technique involves swapping the traditional knotless feed-in technique for a crochet method. TikTok video after TikTok video of this hack show people effortlessly transforming mini braids into soft, cascading curls without stepping foot into the salon.

It's often hard to pinpoint when we all started obsessing over boho braids again, but many stylists point to Zoë Kravitz as inspiration—some even refer to the effortless-looking style “Zoe Kravitz braids.”

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Bicoastal travel braider Shanna St. Cyr says boho braids are her most requested style lately, in both New York and Los Angeles. The reason she thinks it's so popular among her clients: "You can get a weave look without an actual weave install." That cuts down on cost and allows you to experiment with various hairstyles that would be otherwise difficult to wear with a weave. Below, discover more on how the style has evolved and what to know if you plan on trying boho braids for yourself.

Meet the Experts:

• Larry Sims is a Los Angeles-based hairstylist and the co-founder of Flawless by Gabrielle Union
• Jacinta Rutana is London-based hairstylist and braider
• Shanna St. Cyr of Tropix Braids is a travel braider who works in Los Angeles and New York City

How Boho Braids Are Different From Pick-and-Drop Braids

Boho braids take the foundation of pick-and-drop braids and elevate the style. The biggest change: the length of the base braids. Pick-and-drop braids were usually about three inches long, with loose waves or curls at the ends of the braids. The idea was to have the braids hidden at the crown of the head, creating the illusion that the hair was growing out of the scalp. Boho braids, on the other hand, put more emphasis on the braids rather than trying to hide them. The loose curls are incorporated throughout the braids at different lengths, which makes for an even blend of braids and tendrils.

Boho braids also mainly use human hair whereas pick-and-drop featured synthetic hair (that's that was primarily available in the '90s). These braids are one of the most popular ways to get flowing hair extensions that look natural.

Human hair extensions help create a more natural look and make boho braids more versatile, letting you use heat—there is also less matting, says Sims. If you're partial to synthetic hair, Jacinta Rutana, a London-based hairstylist and braider says you can still use it, but it works best in just the braids, and not the loose hair.

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What to Know Before You Get Boho Braids

Rutana explains that the look requires a high skill level: "I use a knotless technique, so it's easy on your natural hair to ensure there’s not as much breakage," she explains, which isn't easy to do on yourself. Working with human hair (which is recommended for this style) "can be challenging due to the softer texture of the hair which makes it hard to grip," says Rutana. TikTok hacks, like miracle knots (which use the more user-friendly crochet method), make this look more accessible and easier to achieve at home—though if you're a novice when it comes to braiding, the salon is still your best bet.

It's best to consult with your stylist to establish if they will provide the hair or if you need to source it ahead of your appointment. Many salons don't provide hair extensions, so oftentimes, you'll need to visit your local beauty supply store ahead of time. Stylists can usually advise on what hair to buy. Moreno used Bellami Clip-Ins on Chase Infiniti's boho braids for the Oscars, while St. Cyr recommends YWigs Loose Human Braiding Hair.

Plan to arrive at your appointment with washed and blow-dried hair. Some stylists offer this service but if it's unavailable, a simple shampoo to cleanse your hair and scalp, followed by a conditioning treatment to moisturize, and a thorough blow dry is all you need.

How to Maintain Boho Braids

The loose strands in boho braids are prone to get tangled so properly maintaining the hair will prolong it's wear. First, spray the braids with a mixture of water and leave-in conditioner in a spray bottle at least once a week and brush the hair to refresh the curls.

“The secret to flawless boho braids is the right brush,” says Moreno, a hairstylist in Los Angeles who created elegant boho braids on actor Chase Infiniti for the 2026 Oscars. Moreno used the Arachne Smooth Boost brush to “add volume and smooth out imperfections without snagging the braid base,” he shared on Instagram.

You can also brush the hair daily without misting it, instead using a lightweight oil or serum to keep frizz at bay. I love using the Sheamoisture Coconut Hibiscus Smooth and Shine Oil when I have boho braids. The silk texture tames any flyaways without weighing the hair down. Plus, it adds a slight sheen that make the braids look good as new.

Additionally, it’s important to wrap your hair with a scarf and sleep in a bonnet to preserve the style. To keep the style looking its best, Runata recommends a touch-up after four weeks.

The Average Cost of Boho Braids

The overall cost ranges from $300 to $600, on average. There are three main factors: the location of your salon, the price of the hair extensions, and how long and thick you want the braids. To give you an idea, St. Cyr charges $695 for small boho braids with hair included and $485 for the same style in medium width. Most salons and braiders have a standard length (usually falling right above the tailbone), so if you want braids any longer than that, chances are you’ll be paying extra.

The price is steep, but the braids do last when they are done well. Runtata says her clients keep the style in for about six to eight weeks depending on their hair type and if the extensions are reusable.

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As someone who has been obsessed with Korean skin care for a decade, I’m here to tell you: The best Korean makeup rivals anything you can find stateside. And, no, it's not limited to lip tints (even though they are some of the best out there, K-beauty or otherwise). For example, Korean blushes are quickly claiming top spots in my rotation, along with shimmery eye shadows and glitter liners that add just the right amount of everyday sparkle.

Our Top Korean Makeup

• Best Glossy Lip Tint: Rom&nd The Juicy Lasting Tint, $17
• Best Lip Gloss: Hera Sensual Nude Gloss, $40
• Best Sparkly Eye Shadow Palette: Unleashia Glitterpedia Eye Palette, $18
• Best Radiant-Finish Cushion Foundation: Jung Saem Mool Essential Skin Nuder Cushion, $32
• Best Semi-Matte Cushion Foundation: Clio Kill Cover Founwear Cushion The Original, $25
• Best Cream Blush: AOU Soft Cream Blush, $17
• Best Setting Spray: TirTir Mask Fit Make Up Fixer, $15

As with skin care, Korean makeup products are often formulated with hydrating ingredients (such as hyaluronic acid, mango seed butter, and more) for a healthy, lit-from-within glow. K-beauty puts emphasis on lightweight, softly-blurring textures and sheer, buildable coverage that lets your natural skin peek through, instead of completely masking it.

Interest piqued? Along with sharing my top recs from a rapidly growing collection, I tapped my fellow Allure editors to share their favorite Korean beauty products. Think viral hits like Laneige and TirTir, industry staples like Jung Saem Mool and Clio, and indie darlings like AOU. Consider it your insider look at the Korean makeup trending in Seoul right now—and a little inspiration for your next look.

Jump ahead to:

• Best Korean Lip Makeup
• Best Korean Face Makeup
• Best Korean Eye Makeup

Frequently Asked QuestionsAccordionItemContainerButtonLargeChevron

• What is Korean makeup known for?
• What are the top 2026 Korean makeup trends?
• Meet the experts
• How we test and review products
• Our staff and testers

Best Korean Lip Makeup

Best Glossy Lip Tint: Rom&nd The Juicy Lasting Tint

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Rom&nd

The Juicy Lasting Tint

$17 $14 (18% off)

Amazon

$15

Ulta Beauty

Why we love it: If you haven’t tried a Korean lip tint yet and love a glossy, high-shine finish, let this be your sign to pick up Rom&nd’s Juicy Lasting Tint. (You may’ve seen them pop up on your TikTok FYP if you’re on BeautyTok.) Every shade is inspired by a fruit, such as Jujube, Bare Grape, and Papaya Jam, and the formulas smell as good as they sound. The lightweight, barely-there formula dries pretty quickly, and there’s absolutely no sticky finish. You still get enough playtime to blur the edges for that soft, popsicle-stain effect, too. One swipe gives you plenty of coverage, but it layers beautifully—two coats, in our experience, give you that sweet spot of maximum color payoff without tipping into gloopy.

Allure commerce editor Sarah Han applying the Rom&nd The Juicy Lasting Tint in Plum Coke

Sarah Han

Han after applying the Rom&ndThe Juicy Lasting Tint in Plum Coke

Sarah Han

As you can probably guess by now, most Korean lip tints are infused with skin-care ingredients that lend that plump, fine-line-blurring effect. Key players include hyaluronic acid (or derivatives such as sodium hyaluronate, featured in this Rom&nd) and fruit-derived oils. While it might not be the most long-lasting lip tint we’ve ever tried, it leaves behind a pretty stain as it wears down—and we clearly don’t mind reapplying every few hours. The hype is well-deserved and Allure-approved.

Allure editor in chief Jessica Cruel applying the Rom&nd Juicy Lasting Tint

Jessica Curel

Cruel after applying the Romn&d Juicy Lasting Tint

Jessica Cruel

Tester feedback from commerce editor Sarah Han

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“This is my most-worn lip tint by far, and I don't see that changing anytime soon. The finish is perfectly balanced: dewy but not too dewy. It's also so lightweight, even after two layers. The color range also hits, whether I'm in the mood for a pinky, MLBB moment, or a deep berry that pops against my light skin.” —Sarah Han, commerce editor

Tester feedback from editor in chief Jessica Cruel

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"I wholeheartedly believe that no one does lip stains better than Korea. When I travel to Seoul, I do a haul in Olive & Young. This one has been a favorite. I love a red lip and this is a subtle stain that lasts through multiple meetings. You can build the watery texture from just bitten flush to a deeper red. It dries down to feel like absolutely nothing on the lips." —Jessica Cruel, editor in chief

More to know

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• Notable ingredients: plum oil, mango seed butter, raspberry seed oil, sodium hyaluronate
• Shades available: 23

Best Matte Lip Tint: Peripera Ink Velvet Lip Tint

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Peripera

Ink Velvet Lip Tint

$10

Amazon

$10

Olive Young

Han applying the Peripera Ink Velvet Lip Tint

Sarah Han

Why we love it: Affordability is one of K-beauty’s biggest draws, and at just $10, Peripera still manages to land impressively on the lower end of the spectrum. The Ink Velvet Lip Tint not only picked up an Allure Best of Beauty Award in 2024, but it’s just as popular in South Korea. "The love for this lip tint begins in the teenage years,” Allure Korea digital editor Song Yein shared. “Most young girls keep it stocked in their cosmetic pouches, and the appeal doesn’t fade. It’s a mega hit in Korea, beloved for its staying power and smooth, velvety finish." The color range is extensive—ranging from light peachy nudes to rich-berry fuchsias—and the whipped, mousse-like texture gives your lips a soft-focus, blurred look that lasts for hours on end.

Han before applying the Peripera Ink Velvet Lip Tint

Sarah Han

Han after applying the Peripera Ink Velvet Lip Tint

Sarah Han

Tester feedback from Han

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“I reach for glossy tints most days, but Peripera's Ink The Velvet Lip Tint has been one of my favorite matte, soft-blurred formulas for so many years, and it's an Allure Best of Beauty Award winner–the ultimate flex. The applicator holds a lot of product and the triangular tip is perfect for lining my outer corners and defining the Cupid's bow. I like to go pretty hard with the shading, but you can concentrate your application on the middle of the lips and blur out the edges with your finger for a subtle gradient effect.” —Sarah Han, commerce editor

More to know

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• Notable ingredients: jojoba oil, marine collagen, hyaluronic acid
• Shades available: 31

Best Lip Gloss: Hera Sensual Nude Gloss

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Hera

Sensual Nude Gloss

$40

Amazon

$42

Olive Young

Allure contributing commerce writer Christa Joanna Lee applying the Hera Sensual Nude Gloss

Christa Joanna Lee

Why we love it: Kiss those sticky glosses in your makeup storage collecting dust goodbye, because Hera’s Sensual Nude Gloss—which frequently tops Hwahae’s lip gloss ranking, including at the time of writing—is going to replace them all. (If you’re not familiar, Hwahae is basically Korea’s go-to beauty app, where real users rate and review products.) Hera sits in that luxury K-beauty lane, but compared to Western brands, the price point feels surprisingly reasonable (K-beauty for the win, once again!) The shade curation is tighter than other lip products, but it does capture the essence of MLBB (my lips but better). So, if you’re the type of person who loves a subtle lip color—that’s also very moisturizing and barrier-friendly—this one’s for you. And if you like a little insider detail: Felix (of Stray Kids) is the brand’s ambassador, and his pick is #415 Brownie Boy.

Lee before applying the Hera Sensual Nude Gloss

Christa Joanna Lee

Lee after applying the Hera Sensual Nude Gloss

Christa Joanna Lee

Tester feedback from contributing commerce writer Christa Joanna Lee

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“I’m not really a lip girl, but when I do wear one, I always go for a gloss. The lightweight formula is so comfortable I almost forget I’m wearing it, and the menthol gives this refreshing, cooling sensation that feels invigorating. Plus, all the shades are super wearable, making it easy to swipe and go.” —Christa Joanna Lee, contributing commerce writer

More to know

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• Notable ingredients: evening primrose oil, phytosterol
• Shades available: 8

Best Korean Face Makeup

Best Radiant-Finish Cushion Foundation: Jung Saem Mool Essential Skin Nuder Cushion

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Jung Saem Mool

Essential Skin Nuder Cushion

$32

Amazon

$32

Ulta Beauty

Han applying the Jung Saem Mool Essential Skin Nuder Cushion

Sarah Han

Why we love it: Since launching her career in 1991, Jung Saem Mool has become—and remains— one of Korea’s most iconic celebrity makeup artists. (Fun fact: She’s widely credited with popularizing the whole “glass skin” phenomenon.) In 2015, she introduced her namesake brand, and her hero product, the Essential Skin Nuder Cushion, has been topping Olive Young charts and picking up awards year after year.

It’s all about creating an effortless, lit-from-within glow—like you’ve gotten eight hours of sleep, worked out, and drank six glasses of water. As the brand expands globally, the shade range has grown to 30, with more on the way. What’s particularly special about the packaging is that there’s a textured “mix and touch” area tucked under the lid that lets you sheer out the product before it hits your sponge, which means no accidental over-application. The key is to start with less and build up as needed for the most natural finish.

Han before applying the Jung Saem Mool Essential Skin Nuder Cushion

Sarah Han

Han after applying the Jung Saem Mool Essential Skin Nuder Cushion

Sarah Han

Tester feedback from Han

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“This was the first very cushion foundation I ever tried when I first visited South Korea in 2018, but honestly, the habit of applying cushion foundation never stuck with me once I returned home. That, and I found most shade ranges to be too light—even though I’m pretty close to Korea’s demographics as a Chinese woman! (Pale skin is considered a beauty standard in eastern Asia, and that’s never been my vibe, personally.) Someone on Jung Saem Mool’s team actually shade-matched me and I’m obsessed with the match. (I’m wearing 22C Petal Light, which is shocking, because I always go for neutral undertones.) It really meshes with my natural tone (I really don’t like going brighter or darker)—and while I can tell that I have something on, it doesn’t feel like I have anything on at all.

If I’ve learned anything about cushion foundation, it’s all about sheer layers and building up, and also taking the time to pat the foundation in for a super seamless finish. Because I’m really pressing the formula into my skin, wearing a very lightweight sunscreen (usually a Korean sunscreen…surprise!) underneath is important to avoid pilling. Not only are cushion foundations compact and easy for on-the-go touchups, but I don’t need any other tools or the back of my hand (where I apply skin tints or foundations first to warm up with my fingers). Big wins! I’m officially back on the cushion foundation hype train.

P.S. The blue casing I have isn’t the original one it comes in—I just popped the compact into the blue one (which I was also gifted) because I loved the color. Yet another fun element of K-beauty products!” —Sarah Han, commerce editor

More to know

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• Shades available: 30
• Notable ingredients: glycerin, adensosine

Best Semi-Matte Cushion Foundation: Clio Kill Cover Founwear Mesh Glow Cushion

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Clio

Kill Cover Founwear Cushion

$25

Amazon

$34

Olive Young

Lee applying Clio Kill Cover Founwear Cushion The Original

Christa Joanna Lee

Why we love it: Newsflash: Just because you have combination or oily skin, doesn’t mean you have to skip the glow. Clio’s Kill Cover Founwear Mesh Glow Cushion strikes that in-between balance, giving skin a fresh, healthy radiance while still keeping excess shine in check. The formula is impressively airy, with a hit of skin-care benefits (hi, niacinamide) baked in. And the packaging isn’t just for looks. The square compact is easier to grip, and the tapered edges of the puff make it surprisingly good at getting into all those tricky spots—around the nose, under the eyes—without the usual awkward maneuvering you get with round cushions.

Lee before applying Clio Kill Cover Founwear Cushion The Original

Christa Joanna Lee

Lee after applying Clio Kill Cover Founwear Cushion The Original

Christa Joanna Lee

Tester feedback from Lee

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“I usually find foundation just ‘sits’ on my skin, but Clio’s Kill Cover Founwear Cushion blends in seamlessly and feels like a second skin. I especially love the Mesh Glow version—it has a sheer, radiant finish and feels even lighter, though its shade range is more limited compared to the original. No matter if I’m in the mood for the glow or the semi-matte original, I keep reaching for both because they feel so comfortable and weightless.” —Christa Joanna Lee, contributing commerce writer

More to know

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• Shades available: 20
• Notable ingredients: niacinamide, glycerin, adenosine

Best Matte-Finish Cushion Foundation: Banila Co. Covericious Ultimate Cover Cushion

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Banila Co

Covericious Ultimate Cover Cushion

$25

Amazon

$38

Olive Young

$32

Yesstyle

Allure contributing commerce editor Deanna Pai applying the Banila Co Covericious Ultimate Cover Cushion

Deanna Pai

Why we love it: Hydrating cushion foundations aren’t always kind to combination and oily skin, but Banila Co’s Covericious Ultimate Cover Cushion somehow pulls it off—mattifying shine and keeping it in check all day long. Your complexion doesn’t look flat as a result, either, thanks to skin-care ingredients like radiance-boosting white truffle. A blend of eight white flowers helps keep skin calm, too, which is especially nice if you’re dealing with the occasional breakout. If you’ve written off cushion foundations for not delivering enough coverage, this one might change your mind. It gives you that sweet spot: medium coverage, blurred pores, and a satin-matte finish that still looks like skin.

Pai before applying the Banila Co Covericious Ultimate Cover Cushion

Deanna Pai

Pai after applying the Banila Co Covericious Ultimate Cover Cushion

Deanna Pai

Tester feedback from contributing commerce editor Deanna Pai

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"Off the bat, I loved that it was pretty easy to determine my shade—a big feat, since I have medium-tan skin with neutral undertones (which doesn't seem to be super-common, based on what I've swatched in the past). But I also adore the feel of the foundation, which gives my skin medium coverage with a second-skin finish. The compact has made it convenient for travel, and it's so good at oil control that my skin looks matte even by the end of the day." —Deanna Pai, contributing commerce editor

More to know

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• Shades available: 20
• Notable ingredients: white truffle, white flowers (jasmine, lotus, and edelweiss)

Best Cream Blush: AOU Soft Cream Blush

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AOU

Soft Cream Blush

$17

Amazon

$20

Olive Young

$20

Yesstyle

Why we love it: AOU may have gone viral for its Glowy Tint Balm, but we think the Soft Cream Blush is being slept on. Short for “Always for Our Use,” the brand was founded by a makeup artist and centers around that glass-skin-inspired makeup that’s easy to use on a daily basis. (Think: K-pop idol makeup, just more approachable.) This blush leans extra creamy, with buildable pigment that melts into the skin for a dewy, diffused finish—the kind that makes it look like your glow is coming from you, not sitting on top. Not sure what shade to start with? We love 02 Pinky Cheeks—it’s that just-right cool pink that instantly brightens everything up.

Han applying AOU Soft Cream Blush in 02 Pinky Cheeks

Sarah Han

Han after applying AOU Soft Cream Blush in 02 Pinky Cheeks

Sarah Han

Tester feedback from Han

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“AOU has been on my radar for quite some time because, hello, when a makeup artist (Cho Eun Bee) who works with top K-pop stars like AESPA's Karina and Winter, as well as IVE's Wonyoung launches a brand, you pay attention. Anyway, as I was perusing Hemeko (an indie K-beauty store in Seoul), these heart-shaped blushes caught my eye right away. I can’t overstate just how creamy these formulas are. I like taking a slightly denser brush to pick up the pigment (with gentle taps!) and tap/buff it into my cheeks, though fingers work well in a pinch.” —Sarah Han, commerce editor

Best Setting Powder: Laneige Neo Blurring Powder

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Laneige

Neo Blurring Powder

$25

Amazon

$25

Sephora

$25

Olive Young

Han applying the Laneige Neo Blurring Powder

Sarah Han

Why we love it: If you’ve ever caught your reflection in a flash photo and immediately zeroed in on that telltale T-zone shine, you get it. Laneige's Neo Blurring Powder solves this issue and goes a step further with innovative packaging. Instead of shaking loose powder into a cap (and inevitably wasting half of it), everything stays contained in the compact. Press down on the mesh, pick up just enough product with the (surprisingly plush) puff, and tap it on. No wonder this once Korea-exclusive has become so popular stateside—everything about it just makes sense. As for what’s inside, you’ve got oil-absorbing silica paired with soothing extras like matricaria flower extract, hydrating hydrolyzed hyaluronic acid, and a hint of wild mint for a subtly refreshing feel.

Han before applying the Laneige Neo Blurring Powder

Sarah Han

Han after applying the Laneige Neo Blurring Powder

Sarah Han

Tester feedback from Han

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“What I love most about the Laneige's Neo Blurring Powder is how compact, mess-free, and lightweight it is—it’s a no-brainer travel pick, and I even drop it into my purse if I’m going to have a busy day out in the city. It nixes any shine in my T-zone just like that without making my complexion look downright flat, and I never feel like I’m wasting product and making a mess. The mirror is a nice bonus, too, for on-the-go touch-ups. I haven’t used this in super hot weather yet, but I’m confident this will help me survive the dog days of NYC summer.” —Sarah Han, commerce editor

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• Notable ingredients: silica, matricaria flower extract, hydrolyzed hyaluronic acid, wild mint extract
• Size: 0.24 oz.

Best Setting Spray: TirTir Mask Fit Make Up Fixer

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Tirtir

Mask Fit Make Up Fixer

$15 $13 (13% off)

Amazon

$15

Ulta Beauty

$15

Olive Young

Han applying the TirTir Mask Fit Make Up Fixer

Sarah Han

Why we love it: While TirTir has made a name for itself with standout skin care (like the ceramide-infused Milk Skin Toner), the makeup deserves just as much attention. Case in point: The Mask Fit Make Up Fixer, which claimed the title of best dewy setting spray in our 2025 Allure Best of Beauty Awards. “Dewy” doesn’t mean it’s off-limits for oily skin, though. The formula includes green apple polyphenols to help keep excess sebum in check, even if the finish leans more glow-boosting than your average setting spray. On no-makeup days, we even reach for it as a refreshing face mist. Whether you’re locking everything in place or just giving your skin a quick pick-me-up, it leaves behind that fresh, healthy-looking sheen that tends to earn a few compliments.

P.S. It is water- and sweat-resistant, but if you’re after something fully waterproof, Mask Fit Waterproof Setting Spray (with a more semi-matte finish) is the one to reach for.

Tester feedback from Han

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“I usually use a powder to set my troublesome T-zone and then spray all over once I’m done with my entire face. With a few spritzes of this TirTir mist, my skin looks glowy but balanced (a.k.a. not a greasy mess by mid-afternoon). I can’t stand a mist that doesn’t feel like it’s actually landing on my face—I like to drench my face in setting spray, and TirTir’s (though still quite fine and gentle) helps me achieve that in just three spritzes.” —Sarah Han, commerce editor

Tester feedback from beauty closet associate Edward Horgan

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"This setting spray mastered the art of a fine mist without the typical chemical scent found in many competitors. It locks makeup in with a soft, long-lasting finish and is genuinely enjoyable to use." —Edward Horgan, beauty closet associate

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• Notable ingredients: green apple polyphenols, Centella asiatica extract (cica)
• Size: 2.7 fl oz.

Best Korean Eye Makeup

Best Sparkly Eye Shadow Palette: Unleashia Glitterpedia Eye Palette

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Unleashia

Glitterpedia Eye Palette

$18

Amazon

$24

Ulta Beauty

$25

Soko Glam

Why we love it: Some say “put a pep in your step,” but we’re more in the “sprinkle some glitter on it" camp. Unleashia’s Glitterpedia Eye Palettes may be compact (and very travel-friendly) with just six shades, but they flex their worth. Each one mixes mattes, shimmers, and glitters in different textures and sparkle levels, so you can go subtle or a little extra without overthinking it.

What makes them feel especially approachable is how easy they are to use. Pick a shimmer, swipe it across your lids, and suddenly it looks like you spent way more time on your makeup than you actually did. In fact, the brand recommends using your fingers versus a brush for the best payoff. (Our editors can attest this is the best method.) Who says glitter has to be saved for special occasions? Surely not us.

Han applying the Unleashia Glitterpedia Eye Palette in No.1 All of Glitter

Sarah Han

Han after applying the Unleashia Glitterpedia Eye Palette in No.1 All of Glitter

Sarah Han

Tester feedback from Han

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“One thing about me is that I looooove shimmery eye shadow. There’s a 90% chance that if I’m wearing eye shadow on any given day, it’s a shimmer or glitter swept across my lids. I like how they brighten and emphasize my eyes without creating shadows. And there’s very little (if any!) blending required, unlike with mattes, I find. (An art form, honestly.) This Unleashia palette is one of the rare ones that I find myself wanting to dig into every shade, instead of purely sticking to one or two. The compactness of it also helps, because I’m definitely going to throw it into my work bag or carry-on over my many bulky palettes. The shades are just so fun to use—what more can I say? Eye shadow isn’t something I wear too often, but when I do, I want it to speak for itself.” —Sarah Han, commerce editor

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• Colorways available: 8

Best Matte Eye Shadow Palette: Clio Pro Eye Palette Air

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Clio

Pro Eye Palette Air

$28

Amazon

$35

Olive Young

Why we love it: Olive Young’s annual awards are pretty much Seoul’s beauty Olympics, and closing out 2025 at the #3 spot was none other than Clio’s Pro Eye Palette Air. If you’re a matte eye shadow person, 08 Latte Senior is especially easy to love—this 12-shade palette is filled with those everyday shades you actually reach for: soft beiges, peaches, nudes, and deeper browns, plus a touch of gold and rose-gold shimmer for a little dimension. The end result is that kind of eye look that feels almost suspiciously effortless—and it’s genuinely hard to overdo. The powders are so finely-milled that you can buff your chosen colors in very light layers and build up to your desired intensity. Our testers especially like using the lighter shades to brighten inner corners and along the crease. We won’t lie: The stickers that these palettes come with (for optional adornment) are an extra cute touch.

Han applying the Clio Pro Eye Palette Air in Latte Senior

Sarah Han

Han after applying the Clio Pro Eye Palette Air in Latte Senior

Sarah Han

Tester feedback from Han

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“If you’ve ever met me or seen a photo of me, it’s pretty clear that mattes are not my thing—but makeup is all about experimentation, and I don’t ever want to be stuck doing things just one way. I was browsing Hwahae, one of the most popular Korean beauty review sites and multiple Clio Pro Eye Palettes top the list, so I knew I had to give them a shot. While the colorways like Peach Mate Apple, which have a more balanced blend of shimmers and mattes, are more my usual style, I can definitely see myself using Latte Senior on a regular basis when I want a more low-key look. It’s a very thoughtful curation of neutrals, which are a staple in any makeup kit—even as a self-proclaimed shimmer obsessive. I love how soft the powders are themselves; they feel like nothing on the skin and leave a very true-to-Korean-beauty, blurred finish.” —Sarah Han, commerce editor

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• Colorways available: Latte Senior, Rose Connect, Lavender Staff, Crystal Paw, Peach Mate Apple, Shopping Cheese

Best Liquid Eye Shadow: Colorgram Milk Bling Shadow

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Colorgram

Milk Bling Shadow

$15

Amazon

$12

Olive Young

Why we love it: The easiest way to add a touch of sparkle to any look is with these Colorgram Milk Bling Shadows. There’s no need to blend them, since these liquid eye shadows dry pretty much as soon as they touch skin. You do have to be a bit intentional with placement—and yes, a good cleansing oil is your friend when it’s time to take them off—but once they’re on, they stay put. Sweep one over your lids as a topper for full-on shimmer, or tap a bit into the inner corners for a quick pop. It’s less about precision and more about those little flashes of sparkle that pull everything together.

Tester feedback from Han

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"I always get compliments and questions when I wear this glittery liner-shadow hybrid on my lower lash line for an extra pop. Colorgram's Milk Bling Shadow isn't heavy or chunky at all, and it dries quickly, so there's no fallout or residue. It's the easiest trick in my book to elevate a simple eye look." —Sarah Han, commerce editor

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• Shades available: 4

Getty ImagesSave StorySave this storySave StorySave this story

The Food & Drug Administration is scrapping a proposed rule that would ban American teenagers under 18 from using tanning beds. The rule, which was first proposed in 2015, aimed to restrict indoor tanning for minors for one very obvious reason: The UV light that these beds emit in high doses has been long-proven to cause skin cancer.

A spokesperson for the FDA told Allure in a statement that the agency withdrew the proposal “in order to reconsider the best means for addressing the issues covered by the Proposed Rule and related issues regarding access to sunlamp products.” Its decision came after the agency received more than 8,100 comments on the proposal—comments that they say ranged from “the dangers of UV radiation from sunlamp products” and the “vulnerability of young people to the risks of sunlamp products” to “support for personal choice and parental decision-making; availability” and “compliance burdens on small businesses.”

The notice of the withdrawal was signed by Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr., who is known to frequent indoor tanning salons himself. (When asked by The Atlantic a few months ago how he squares his tanning and nicotine habits with his day job, Kennedy replied, “I’m not telling people that they should do anything that I do. I just say ‘Get in shape.’”)

In its statement, the FDA acknowledges the scientific link between tanning beds and skin cancer. “Withdrawal of the proposed restrictions does not mean that exposure to UV radiation does not cause skin cancer. It is well established that exposure to UV radiation (including through sunlamp products) can lead to skin cancer,” the statement reads. Despite this, they encourage “users of sunlamp products to discuss the potential risks with their physician before using sunlamp products”—a statement that ignores the fact that the risks are not potential. They’re confirmed by science.

Tanning beds—like tobacco, formaldehyde, and asbestos—are classified as a group 1 carcinogen by the World Health Organization's International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC). And that's a message that many, many board-certified dermatologists have hammered home for Allure and our readers over the last three decades: Using tanning beds dramatically ups the likelihood of a skin cancer diagnosis. Full stop. These same dermatologists and health professionals now worry that the FDA's withdrawal of this proposed tanning bed restriction sends a confusing message to minors and their parents. Susan C. Taylor, MD, FAAD, and president of the American Academy of Dermatology, released a statement this week saying that the organization was “disappointed.”

“Exposure to UV radiation from indoor tanning devices is associated with an increased risk of melanoma, as well as non-melanoma skin cancers, including squamous cell carcinoma and basal cell carcinoma,” says Dr. Taylor. Part of what makes tanning beds so dangerous is that “they emit mostly UVA radiation and filter out the UVB that will burn you more readily—[tanning salons] don't want you to burn, they want you to come back,” says Dendy Engleman, MD, a board-certified dermatologist in New York City. “But UVA radiation ages you more readily, breaks down collagen more readily, and it's more oncogenic, meaning cancer-causing.”

And late last year, new research from Northwestern Medicine and the University of California, San Francisco, revealed that tanning bed usage is in fact even more dangerous than we knew. Before then, it was thought that indoor tanners were about 75% more likely to develop melanoma than those who have never tanned indoors, and that just one session in a tanning bed could increase the risk by 20%. But this latest research found that tanning bed usage actually triples the risk of skin cancer—that's a 200% increase. Not only that, through comparing 182 skin biopsies, the researchers showed the UV emitted from tanning beds caused unique DNA mutations, more damaging than previously known. “The takeaway is simple: Tanning beds don’t just age your skin, they biologically shift your cells toward cancer,” Mona Gohara, MD, a board-certified dermatologist and clinical professor at the Yale School of Medicine Department of Dermatology, told Allure at the time.

“The same way we do not want our teens to smoke, we do not want them to go to a tanning bed.”

This gap between irrefutable scientific proof and government policy can lead to widespread confusion, something Kavita Mariwalla, MD, double board-certified dermatologist in Long Island, New York, is very concerned about. “When the FDA, the organization tasked with determining the safety of medications and devices for the United States, backs off this proposal, it gives two signals,” she says. “The first is that it’s not an important issue and the second is that tanning isn’t dangerous enough for the FDA to get involved—both could not be farther from the truth.”

Currently, there is no federal ban on people under 18 using tanning beds; however, a number of individual states—including California, New York, Virginia, Illinois, and Texas—have bans in place for minors. Some states, such as Alabama, Washington, and Oregon, are considered to have bans but allow exceptions with a doctor’s prescription. Others—like Idaho, Michigan, and Utah—require a parent’s consent or supervision. But those rules are not always enforced. “In a lot of states, high schoolers can just go tanning on the way home from school and their parents don’t even know,” says Dr. Engelman, who is originally from South Carolina, a state where tanning bed operators are supposed to ask customers under 18 for written consent from a parent or legal guardian. “In my experience, in the South at least, tanning salons that should be asking for IDs and parental consent often aren’t.”

“Teen skin is particularly susceptible to ultraviolet damage.”

And even when parents have the opportunity to stop their teens from tanning, “​​it's hard to parent in 2026, and sometimes on the list of things you’re willing to go to battle on, tanning beds fall at the bottom,” says Dr. Mariwalla, a mother of three who sees young patients and their parents in her clinic daily.

Dr. Engelman, also a mother, agrees: “It’s like parents having to regulate smartphones and social media on our own. It’s on us to sign Wait Til 8th pledges and protect our kids. We know that it only takes one young person to make everyone else fall, everyone will crowd around that phone,” she says. Or follow that friend to a tanning salon. “It would be great to have bans on the things we know for a fact are particularly dangerous for young people, to have a governing body with an emphasis on health helping us to keep our kids safe.”

The stakes here are high. “Skin cancer has reached epidemic rates in the United States,” says Dr. Mariwalla, noting that despite dermatologists’ best efforts to educate the public and scientific advancements in treatment, the rate of melanoma deaths has not changed in years. The American Cancer Society estimates that new melanoma cases in 2026 will be 10.6% higher than in 2025. And before the age of 18, exposure to UVA-heavy radiation severely impacts your risk of being diagnosed with skin cancer, especially deadly melanoma, as an adult. “Teen skin is particularly susceptible to ultraviolet damage,” says Dr. Mariwalla, explaining that skin structure is more sensitive.

“Skin cancer has reached epidemic rates in the United States.”

Yet, despite overwhelming evidence that tanning is a dangerous habit, many people—particularly young people—continue to believe pervasive myths about it. Stimulating vitamin D production and providing a healthy “base tan” prior to vacation are two of the most common. According to a 2025 AAD survey, “Younger adults may not fully grasp the dangers—especially with the influence of social media trends that promote tanning.” With misinformation proliferating online, clear guidance and action on tanning dangers from the FDA is more important than ever.

“The [FDA’s] decision sends the wrong message—especially to young people—that tanning beds are safe, when they’re not,” Dr. Mariwalla says. “The same way we do not want our teens to smoke, we do not want them to go to a tanning bed.”