Blog

Photo: Getty ImagesSave StorySave this storySave StorySave this story

Sabrina Carpenter was presumably a guest at Taylor Swift’s wedding over the weekend, but now she’s popped up in Paris to be a front-row guest at the Dior Haute Couture Fall/Winter 2026-2027 show. And while we have yet to see how she wore her hair to the Madison Square Garden love fest, we think it’s safe to say it must have been much different than the completely unexpected braided pigtails she sported to sit runway-side.

Whether she's wearing bouncy, voluminous curls or a fluffy '90s-inspired blowout, Carpenter is known for big, glamorous hair. Sure, she strays from her signature look every now and then (see: the Met Gala), but it’s never not surprising when she shows up in a look that simply wasn’t on our style radar.

Instead of cascading blonde waves, Carpenter wore low, braided pigtails starting at the nape of her neck. Her buttery blonde hair was parted down the center and given an air-dried, wavy texture that let her long curtain bangs and a few shorter pieces stay separate from the rest of the style and frame her face. The braids appear to be tied off with thin, white rope and have a romantic, lived-in, casual quality—though not too casual to seem irrefutably stylish at a Paris couture show.

Photo: Getty Images

That can be at least partially attributed to her fairy-tale-esque ensemble. Carpenter wore a lacy, ivory, sleeveless Dior dress featuring a softly draped cowl neckline and floral embellishments at the shoulder and hip. It would actually make for a gorgeous bridal look, so perhaps the singer-songwriter was inspired by Swift’s Dior wedding dress.

Although this is a pretty dramatic departure from Carpenter's typical beauty playbook, it (once again) proves she doesn't need sky-high volume to make a stunning impression. If it's a hairstyle, and it's on her head, it's gonna look gorgeous.

Photo: Getty ImagesSave StorySave this storySave StorySave this story

Bits of information (and conspiracy theories) about Taylor Swift's tremendously anticipated wedding have been trickling in at a glacial pace. So when one of her best friends, Selena Gomez, posted an Instagram story from the back of a car heading to the rehearsal dinner on Thursday night, it was like a choir of angels singing. And thankfully, her glam team gave us a clearer view of Gomez, who knows a thing or two about bridal beauty after celebrating her own wedding less than a year ago, on Friday afternoon.

Gomez and hairstylist Renato Campora opted for an ultra-sleek hairstyle—easily one of the most tightly sculpted buns we’ve seen on her (or anyone) so far this year. Practically architectural in its precision, her hair is pulled straight back and upwards without a visible part to create a smooth, downright reflective surface from her hairline to the crown. There isn't a flyaway or misplaced strand in sight—just an immaculate finish.

The bun itself sits high on the crown, Renato having somehow achieved no less than a perfect circle of hair. (I’m not breaking out my drafting tool to confirm, but this is clearly a geometric hair miracle.) Simultaneously full and compact, it’s wrapped in such a way that it may not budge without half a bottle of Goo Gone.

Instagram content

The rest of Gomez's beauty look was every bit as refined as her hair. Makeup artist Soo Park, who shared the stunning video above, paired the sleek updo with softly sculpted skin, feathery brows, hazy winged shadow and liner, and fluttery lashes, although it seems Gomez herself might have been responsible for putting on her lip color—a mysterious, glossy Rare Beauty lipstick applied in the aforementioned car.

Instagram content

Nail artist Tom Bachik gave her what he’s calling the perfect quiet luxury manicure: a timeless, sheer, milky polish on long square nails. The elegant mani easily her strapless, lacy, black Oscar de la Renta dress styled by Erin Walsh—and it can definitely go with anything else she might wear for the wedding weekend.

This rehearsal dinner look may offer a preview of the glamour still to come, but Gomez's sleek bun has already earned its place among the weekend's standout beauty moments.

Sun-In hair lightening products are having a nostalgia-fueled resurgence.Photo: Jens Stuart / Trunk ArchiveSave StorySave this storySave StorySave this story

A quick Google search for “Is Sun-In back in style?” pulls up headlines from last month, last year, and the last decade. Fashion magazines recommended it through the 2010s. Your mom probably used it in the ’80s. For me and fellow elder millennials, it was a middle school gateway to 40-volume bleach. And right now, a new generation of UV enthusiasts (possibly the same ones who are bringing back tanning despite the very well-documented risks of skin cancer) is spraying it in and lying out, waiting for the sun to do its thing.

According to the Spate Popularity Index, which pulls data from Google searches, TikTok views, and Instagram posts, interest in Sun-In is up 32% year-over-year, with another 19% of growth predicted in the next 12 months. Searches about hair-lightening sprays overall are up 61%, with the conversation happening almost entirely on Google, which signals buying intent. Unsurprisingly, the most common related searches are before-and-afters: People want proof the product works before they commit.

But Sun-In’s modern renaissance raises a bigger question: At a time when nearly any beauty goal is achievable with the right tools and tech, why is a $4 bottle of drugstore hair tonic still the product we keep reaching for, especially when the results are far from guaranteed?

How Sun-In works: the good, the bad, and the orange

Sun-In is a hydrogen peroxide-based spray-on lightener that is activated with heat. Spritz it in, go outside, or use a hair dryer, and watch your hair gradually lighten over hours, days, or weeks. The critical caveat is that it usually works as intended only on naturally blonde or light brunette hair. On darker hair, you probably won’t get blonde. You’re most likely going to get red or orange.

“Hair lighteners work by oxidizing melanin. Hydrogen peroxide breaks down the melanin in the hair shaft, and heat activates that process,” explains Izabela Nowak, PhD, a cosmetic chemist and head of the applied chemistry department at Adam Mickiewicz University in Poznań, Poland.

“The orange effect occurs when the pigment is not fully oxidized,” adds Dr. Nowak. “Time in the sun is critical, and so is your starting color. Dark hair contains more eumelanin, which is harder to lift. Full oxidation is less likely to occur, and the result is often warm, reddish pigments rather than true blonde."

Also on the ingredient list is citrus limon (lemon) juice, which “should help close the hair cuticle after oxidation,” Dr. Nowak explains, in addition to helping lighten on its own. Chamomilla recutita (matricaria) flower extract “has a minor lightening effect [on light hair, not dark]; here, it mostly just adds shine.” And nourishing botanicals like aloe, calendula, and linseed.

It’s worth noting that the “bleach-free” claim on the bottle is, as Dr. Nowak puts it, a half-truth at best. “Hydrogen peroxide is a bleaching agent. While traditional hair dyes usually pair it with alkaline accelerators not present in this formula [those open up the hair shaft, accelerating the dyeing], hydrogen peroxide itself is present. It’s a classic oxidizing agent. This isn’t mentioned at all in the product description.”

Where trends lead, the market follows. While the new class of spray lighteners has yet to achieve Sun-In’s cult status, the competition is real. Standouts include Sun Bum Blonde Hair Lightener ($17), which blends the same hydrogen peroxide base with pineapple and lemon, and Oribe Bright Blonde Sun Lightening Mist ($38), which is explicitly peroxide-free. The formula features lemon, chamomile, and a cocktail of fruit oils and botanicals with added UV protection. “There's no bleaching effect, and it's much less aggressive,” brand educator Adam Livermore explained when it launched in 2021. “Think of it like a brightness booster, like getting an extra shot of espresso in your coffee.”

Which raises a fair question: What does the presence of peroxide cost your hair? Researchers using transmission electron microscopy have found that bleaching damages hair well beyond the surface in a process that doesn’t reverse, breaking down structure in both the cuticle and the underlying cortex, including the disulfide bonds that give hair its strength. While the peroxide exposure from Sun-In and similar products is nowhere near what salon-strength bleach delivers, that "effortless" sun-streaked look is still the result of a real chemical reaction. For those trying to go brighter while preserving hair health, a peroxide-free formula like Oribe’s might be the way to go. (Or, you’re better off with straight lemon juice.)

The beauty ritual that requires you to touch grass

What makes Sun-In unique as beauty products go is that it works best outside. Ideally, when you’re horizontal. Preferably not looking at your phone. And definitely when you’re wearing sunscreen. It’s a ritual that can’t be rushed, fine-tuned, or administered by a professional. Well, it could be, but it wouldn’t make a difference. And perhaps that’s part of the appeal.

The last decade of beauty has been defined by relentless perfectionism: $400 blowdryers, $600 highlights, vampire facials, salmon sperm serums, and spa treatments born in a chemistry lab. We’re very good at controlling outcomes. We also seem to have gotten very tired of it.

The same generation raised in the culture of control is now reaching, conspicuously, for the opposite. Sourdough, flip phones, and film photography are permanent fixtures. House parties are finally back. The analog turn is more than an aesthetic reaction; it’s exhaustion talking. In an over-optimized, outcome-obsessed world, there’s something almost radical about choosing a process that all but promises an uncertain result.

Ready to DIY? Here’s how to use Sun-In to lighten your hair.

A strand test first, always. The end result depends heavily on your starting color, and the only way to know how your hair will respond is to test a small section. Note that Sun-In is not recommended for dyed hair. “Hydrogen peroxide can react with dye from a previous coloring and create a new pigment within the hair shaft,” warns Dr. Nowak. “You might be surprised and end up with black lowlights instead!”

Start with less product than you think you need and build across sessions. Heat helps; a blow dryer will activate it if you’re not spending time outdoors. If your hair is dark brown or black, maybe avoid it unless you don’t mind the possibility of orange or brassy tones. If you’re somewhere in the light brunette middle, go slowly and give your hair extra TLC between rounds. Purple shampoos and a deep conditioning mask could go a long way. The results that tend to look the most natural are usually the ones that took the longest to achieve.

Maybe it was never about the hair

For cash-strapped preteens whose parents banned hair dye, it’s a shortcut to achieving those sunkissed strands. For nostalgic adults on TikTok, it’s a way to relive what we remember as simpler times, but also reclaim some agency. When we can have almost anything customized and automated, from a 12-step skin routine to an AI life partner, there’s something undoubtedly charming about Sun-In’s analog uncertainties.

You can go to the salon and drop half a paycheck on a perfectly calibrated balayage. Or you can go to Target, buy a $4 bottle of Sun-In, spray it into your hair (alongside SPF from head-to-toe, reapplied every two hours), and go lie in the grass and yap with your bestie as it shade-shifts.

It’s summer. What sounds more fun?

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

PDRN seems to be everywhere right now, but can even the best PDRN serums really deliver all the skin-smoothing, barrier-strengthening benefits people claim? Before you start slathering on salmon sperm DNA (yes, really), it helps to understand more about one of the buzziest ingredients to emerge from K-beauty. “PDRN, or polydeoxyribonucleotide, refers to DNA fragments that are most commonly derived from salmon sperm DNA,” says Jane Yoo, MD, a dual board-certified dermatologist and Mohs surgeon based in New York City. It's been used in regenerative medicine for years in Europe and Asia, where "there is credible clinical use of [injectable] PDRN in medical settings for wound healing and ulcers,” Mona Gohara, MD, a board-certified dermatologist in Hamden, Connecticut, previously told Allure, who noted that it's generally well-tolerated.

The thinking behind PDRN is that it can supposedly target certain receptors on your cells. “Think of the skin cell as a ball, and the receptor is sticking out on top of it like a light switch,” said Dr. Gohara. “PDRN injections are basically turning on the switch to wake up the cells and hopefully get them to produce more collagen.” It's historically been used as an injectable skin booster abroad, where it's offered as a “regenerative” skin booster as well as part of post-procedure recovery after lasers, chemical peels, and microneedling. PDRN injections are not approved by the FDA for cosmetic skin rejuvenation and are not legally used for those purposes in the United States.

Our Top PDRN Serums

• Best Overall: IOPE XMD Stem III Clinical Recovery Serum, $59
• Best for Uneven Texture: Medik8 Exo-PDRN Prismatic+, $96
• Best for Sensitive Skin: Anua PDRN Hyaluronic Acid Hydrating Capsule Mist, $21
• Best for Early Signs of Aging: Rejuran Dual Effect Ampoule, $55

Whether that translates to topical products, though, is still unclear. There’s a difference between hype and hard evidence, “and I’m skeptical as to how well the data is substantiating PDRN’s skin-care claims,” Kelly Dobos, a Cincinnati-based cosmetic chemist, previously told Allure. So far, much of the research on PDRN as a skin-care ingredient has taken place in petri dishes, which don't account for the many complexities of human skin cells. “The evidence that we have on PDRN’s benefits is in cell cultures, where it can do things like turn off melanin production. That’s not the same thing as saying, ‘If you put this in a cream, and put that on your skin, it’s going to work,’” Perry Romanowski, a Chicago-based cosmetic chemist, previously told Allure.

And while topical PDRN has become a buzzy skin-care ingredient, there's currently little clinical evidence showing that PDRN serums deliver the same benefits seen when it's injected. That doesn't necessarily mean these formulas can't improve the look of your skin, but rather that it's difficult to know how much of the credit belongs to PDRN itself. Many of the products on this list also contain well-studied ingredients like hyaluronic acid, peptides, niacinamide, and retinoids, which have years of evidence to back up their ability to hydrate, smooth, brighten, and plump the skin.

So while the jury is still out on topical PDRN, the supporting cast in these formulas may be doing much of the heavy lifting. Still game to see whether it works for you? The PDRN-infused products our editors and dermatologists keep reaching for.

Frequently Asked QuestionsAccordionItemContainerButtonLargeChevron

• Why has PDRN become so popular in Korean skin care specifically?
• Does PDRN skin care actually work?
• What is plant-derived PDRN?
• Is it worth using if you’re already using ingredients like retinol, peptides, or growth factors?
• Meet the experts
• How we test and review products
• Our staff and testers

Best Overall: IOPE XMD Stem III Clinical Recovery Serum

Save to wishlistSave to wishlist

Iope

XMD Stem III Clinical Recovery Serum

$59

Amazon

$59

Sephora

Why it's worth it: Plenty of brands claim to be pushing skin-care innovation forward, but few have the track record to back it up quite like IOPE. Widely recognized as one of the first brands to introduce retinol to the Korean market (Allure’s resident K-beauty expert, commerce editor Sarah Han, is a long-time fan of the brand’s Expert Retinol RX 1% Super Bounce Serum), IOPE once again leans into cutting-edge skin science with its XMD Stem III Clinical Recovery Serum, a formula inspired by the professional PDRN treatments.

The formula features the brand's proprietary PDRN H.A. Liposome Complex, which combines salmon-derived PDRN, micro-molecular hyaluronic acid, and an Allanto Complex—a blend of soothing allantoin, antioxidant-rich spiraeoside, and skin-supporting peptides—to "support barrier repair, refine pores, boost hydration, and even out texture," says Dr. Yoo. In addition, soothing Centella asiatica-derived compounds nourish, calm, and strengthen skin for that coveted glass glow. “Every time I use this serum, I'm reminded that not all PDRN is created equal,” says Charlotte Cho, aesthetician and co-founder of Soko Glam based in New York City.

Allure commerce editor Sarah Han applying the IOPE XMD Stem III Clinical Recovery Serum

Sarah Han

Han after applying the IOPE XMD Stem III Clinical Recovery Serum

Sarah Han

Tester feedback from commerce editor Sarah Han

AccordionItemContainerButtonLargeChevron

“This is a delightful serum, all around. I use it in conjunction with my retinol (night) or vitamin C serums (day)—oftentimes both. It's a great hydration booster and gives my skin a noticeable plumping boost compared to when I don't use it. It's super gentle—nothing harsh in there—and the silky gel texture feels great on my skin. It also dries down to a weightless finish, layering well with my moisturizer and sunscreen. I haven't noticed a huge difference in my pore size, which it claims to reduce, but my skin has never looked dewier/glossier… so I'm definitely not complaining. As far as PDRN or hyaluronic acid serums go, this is my favorite by far! It's pricier in terms of Korean skin-care brands, but that's par for the course for IOPE, and I think this clinical-focused brand is totally worth it!” —Sarah Han, commerce editor

More to know

AccordionItemContainerButtonLargeChevron

• PDRN type: salmon-derived
• Other key ingredients: hyaluronic acid, niacinamide, spiraeoside, peptides, allantoin, Centella asiatica
• Fragrance-free: no

Best for Signs of Early Aging: Rejuran Dual Effect Ampoule

Save to wishlistSave to wishlist

Rejuran

Dual Effect Ampoule

$55 $44 (20% off)

Amazon

$55

Sephora

Allure social director Kassidy Silva applying the Rejuran Dual Effect Ampoule

Kassidy Silva

Why it's worth it: Rejuran is often credited with putting PDRN on the map. Inspired by the brand's popular in-office skin booster treatments—which have become especially popular in South Korea but, again, aren't available stateside—the Dual Effect Ampoule “ is the closest thing to ‘clinical PDRN skin care’ that you can get, in my opinion,” Marisal Mou, a cosmetic chemist based in New York City, previously told Allure.

The formula stars salmon-derived c-PDRN, the brand’s proprietary version of the ingredient, which can support skin renewal and improves the look of texture and firmness, according to Rejuran. Niacinamide brightens discoloration, refines the appearance of pores, and keeps excess oil in check, while squalane provides lightweight, non-greasy hydration, leaving skin feeling soft and supple. Meanwhile, ceramides, sodium hyaluronate, aloe vera, and licorice root extract strengthen the skin barrier and boost radiance. For that reason, it’s “ideal for mature skin experiencing collagen loss, post-procedure skin,” says Dr. Yoo.

Silva before applying the Rejuran Dual Effect Ampoule

Kassidy Silva

Silva before applying the Rejuran Dual Effect Ampoule

Kassidy Silva

Tester feedback from social director Kassidy Silva

AccordionItemContainerButtonLargeChevron

“Rejuran’s PDRN serum is brightness in a bottle. Deep in the throes of toddlerhood, I have been constantly rotating products to help restore my glow and went through many many serums until finding this one. I use about 1/4 of a syringe in my morning routine after applying toner and follow it up with a large dollop of moisturizer, a little eye cream and sunscreen. Around $50, it’s a steal compared to others on the market that I usually gravitate towards.” —Kassidy Silva, social director

More to know

AccordionItemContainerButtonLargeChevron

• PDRN type: salmon-derived
• Other key ingredients: niacinamide, squalane, ceramides, sodium hyaluronate, aloe vera, licorice root
• Fragrance-free: yes

Best for Uneven Texture: Medik8 Exo-PDRN Prismatic+

Save to wishlistSave to wishlist

Medik8

Exo-PDRN Prismatic+

$96

Medik8

Why it's worth it: If rough texture, lingering post-breakout marks, and dullness are standing between you and your glowiest skin, Medik8’s Exo-PDRN Prismatic+ takes a three-pronged approach. First, there are exosomes, tiny cell-derived messengers that are thought to help skin cells communicate more effectively and support the skin's natural repair processes. Next comes the brand's proprietary Prismatic PDRN, a vegan alternative to traditional salmon-derived PDRN. While Medik8 doesn't disclose its exact source, it says its unique 3D "prismatic", three-dimensional, pyramid-shaped structure is designed to improve absorption and skin penetration.

Finally, the formula relies on Medik8's signature growth factor-inspired technology, including GF MiniProtein and oligopeptide-1, a lab-engineered version of epidermal growth factor (EGF), to support collagen, elastin, and hyaluronic acid, which keep skin looking firm and bouncy. Niacinamide, Centella asiatica, and panthenol further brighten discoloration, calm redness, and strengthen the skin barrier. All told, it’s a high-tech serum loaded with peptides that tackles uneven tone and texture from every angle possible.

Han applying the Medik8 Exo-PDRN Prismatic+

Sarah Han

Han after applying the Medik8 Exo-PDRN Prismatic+

Sarah Han

Tester feedback from Han

AccordionItemContainerButtonLargeChevron

"Besides one instance of textural preference, I haven't run into a Medik8 product I didn't like. And when peptides and growth factors are involved? Consider me a fan. The Exo-PDRN Prismatic+ has this incredibly silky slip to it that negates tugging, which is great for someone who wants to avoid accelerating fine lines. My skin looks instantly more hydrated and plump with each application—and over the course of a few weeks, I have felt like my skin is a bit smoother overall, which is to say my makeup has also been applying more seamlessly. A big win!" —Sarah Han, commerce editor

More to know

AccordionItemContainerButtonLargeChevron

• PDRN type: vegan
• Other key ingredients: exosomes, growth factors, niacinamide, Centella asiatica, panthenol, GF MiniProtein, oligopeptide-1
• Fragrance-free: no

Best for Hyperpigmentation: Medicube PDRN Peptide Serum

Save to wishlistSave to wishlist

Medicube

PDRN Peptide Serum

$19

Amazon

$21

Nordstrom

$21

Ulta Beauty

Allure video producer Lauren Alberti applying the Medicube PDRN Peptide Serum

Lauren Alberti

Why it's worth it: Medicube may have become a household name thanks to its viral beauty devices—our editor in chief is a Booster Pro devotee—but the brand's PDRN Peptide Serum is every bit as buzzworthy. The formula combines salmon-derived PDRN with niacinamide to brighten uneven skin tone and support a healthier-looking complexion, while a blend of peptides works to keep skin looking firmer and smoother. Sodium hyaluronate delivers a boost of hydration, and antioxidant-rich ingredients like CoQ10, turmeric, and rose extract round out the formula. One thing to note: Medicube also makes a version featuring rose-derived PDRN, so be sure to double-check the packaging.

According to Sherry Backman, a cosmetic chemist based in Brattleboro, Vermont, "while salmon-derived PDRN remains the most extensively studied form,” most of that research has been conducted in petri dishes or other preclinical settings rather than in studies evaluating topical use on human skin. At the same time, "rose-derived PDRN is gaining popularity as a plant-based alternative that may offer additional antioxidant benefits."

Tester feedback from video producer Lauren Alberti

AccordionItemContainerButtonLargeChevron

“I've been using this product for the last few months as part of my never-ending battle against dry skin. After a few uses, I could see that this was definitely contributing to more hydrated-looking skin, helping me achieve that dewy glow.” —Lauren Alberti, video producer

More to know

AccordionItemContainerButtonLargeChevron

• PDRN type: salmon-derived
• Other key ingredients: niacinamide, adenosine, peptides, glycerin, sodium hyaluronate, rose extract, turmeric, holy basil
• Fragrance-free: no

Best for Dry Skin: Anua PDRN Hyaluronic Acid Hydrating Capsule Mist

Save to wishlistSave to wishlist

Anua

PDRN Hyaluronic Acid Hydrating Capsule Mist

$21

Amazon

$21

Ulta Beauty

Allure contributing writer Christa Joanna Lee applying the Anua PDRN Hyaluronic Acid Hydrating Capsule Mist

Christa Joanna Lee

Why it's worth it: If all it took to win us over were looking like a tiny bottle of mermaid water, Anua's PDRN Hyaluronic Acid Hydrating Capsule Mist would have sealed the deal—but the formula gives us real results to love. Suspended throughout the formula are hydrating capsules packed with 2,000 ppm (about 0.2%) of salmon-derived PDRN, alongside three forms of hyaluronic acid and hydrolyzed collagen to help skin look plumper, bouncier, and well-hydrated. Sensitive skin types will appreciate the formula's barrier-supporting ingredients. Panthenol, allantoin, ceramides, aloe, and jojoba oil calm and moisturize skin, while peptides and adenosine support a smoother, healthier-looking complexion. What really keeps us reaching for it, though, is the application. The spray is so ultra-fine that it layers seamlessly under or over makeup, delivering a weightless boost of hydration without leaving foundation streaky, patchy, or disturbed. That makes it perfect for anyone “who wants tons of hydration, plumpness, and glow,” says Dr. Yoo. (So, everyone.)

Tester feedback from contributing commerce writer Christa Joanna Lee

AccordionItemContainerButtonLargeChevron

“I use it solo when I'm feeling dry, layer it under moisturizer, or pair it with Anua’s PDRN Collagen Melting Patch—as I did in the video above—for a mini mask moment. The formula is so lightweight I barely notice it's there, but the glass-skin glow is evidence that I’ve been using this regularly.” —Christa Joanna Lee, contributing commerce writer

More to know

AccordionItemContainerButtonLargeChevron

• PDRN type: salmon-derived
• Other key ingredients: hyaluronic acid, hydrolyzed collagen, panthenol, allantoin, ceramides, aloe, jojoba oil, copper tripeptide-1
• Fragrance-free: yes

Best Plant-Derived: Knours PDRN Rice & Green Tea Revitalizing Serum

Save to wishlistSave to wishlist

Knours

PDRN Rice & Green Tea Revitalizing Serum

$26

Amazon

$26

Ulta Beauty

$26

Soko Glam

Allure former senior commerce editor Sarah Felbin applying the Knours PDRN Rice & Green Tea Revitalizing Serum

Sarah Felbin

Why it's worth it: If the idea of salmon-derived PDRN isn't quite your thing, Knours offers a plant-powered alternative. Though sourced from plants or microbial fermentation, phyto-PDRN appears to trigger the same pathways involved in skin repair, inflammation regulation, and collagen production as salmon-derived PDRN (we dive deeper below). Its PDRN Rice & Green Tea Revitalizing Serum features PDRN sourced from rice and green tea, alongside a lineup of ingredients designed to hydrate, brighten, and support healthier-looking skin. Niacinamide evens tone, while rice ferment filtrate, rice bran water, and amino acids nourish skin and boost radiance. Multiple forms of hyaluronic acid, along with polyglutamic acid, deliver deep, lasting hydration, while panthenol and ceramides strengthen the skin barrier.

Felbin before applying the Knours PDRN Rice & Green Tea Revitalizing Serum

Sarah Felbin

Felbin after applying the Knours PDRN Rice & Green Tea Revitalizing Serum

Sarah Felbin

Tester feedback from former senior commerce editor Sarah Felbin

AccordionItemContainerButtonLargeChevron

“I'll admit, I was a PDRN skeptic before I found this serum. I wasn't sure what PDRN could do for my skin that I wasn't already getting from my other products—but Knours sealed the deal for me. This one is super thin and lightweight—it sinks in quickly and doesn't feel sticky once it absorbs. It feels so soothing on the skin, and I really notice the brightening effects both immediately after I apply it and the next morning. My sensitive skin drinks it right up and feels so hydrated after each use. I already know I'll be purchasing another bottle once this one runs out. My only hangup is that the dropper is finicky—it can be tricky to control how much product comes out by using the button on top of the dropper, so I do wish it had a regular squeeze dropper instead. But honestly, it's a small price to pay for a serum I love so much!” —Sarah Felbin, former senior commerce editor

More to know

AccordionItemContainerButtonLargeChevron

• PDRN type: rice- and green tea-derived
• Other key ingredients: niacinamide, rice ferment filtrate, rice bran water, amino acids, hyaluronic acid, polyglutamic acid, panthenol, ceramides
• Fragrance-free: yes

Best for Fine Lines: Haruharu Wonder Rose PDRN Firming Serum

Save to wishlistSave to wishlist

Haruharu Wonder

Rose PDRN Firming Serum with Retinal

$22

Amazon

$22

Yesstyle

Lee applying the Haruharu Wonder Rose PDRN Firming Serum

Christa Joanna Lee

Why it's worth it: While Haruharu Wonder (whose name means "day by day" in Korean, a nod to the idea that small, consistent habits can add up to meaningful results over time) is still more of an up-and-coming player in the US market, products like its Rose PDRN Firming Serum are helping the brand build a loyal following. The formula centers on rose-derived PDRN, which "has shown antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and regenerative effects comparable to those of fish-derived PDRN," says Backman. Those skin-repairing benefits are paired with 0.1% retinal, a potent vitamin A derivative that accelerates cell turnover, softens the appearance of fine lines, and improves uneven texture, making it a particularly good fit for gently addressing early signs of aging. Niacinamide, Centella asiatica, ceramides, and peptides further support the skin barrier while promoting firmer, brighter-looking skin. Despite its impressive lineup of actives, the serum feels elegant on the skin—slightly more viscous than your average serum, yet quick to absorb and effortless to layer.

Tester feedback from Lee

AccordionItemContainerButtonLargeChevron

“This is a really solid option if you’re looking for a beginner-friendly PDRN/retinal serum that plays nicely with sensitive skin. I use a refrigerated prescription tretinoin, so on nights I’m too lazy to go back downstairs to grab it (which is pretty much 5 out of 7 nights), this is one of the gentler serums I keep in rotation. The texture is spot-on—not too watery, not heavy—and it absorbs instantly without any stickiness. It feels comfortable the second it hits skin, and I haven't experienced any irritation in the two weeks I've been using it.” —Lee, contributing commerce writer

More to know

AccordionItemContainerButtonLargeChevron

• PDRN type: rose-derived
• Other key ingredients: 0.1% retinal, Centella asiatica, peptides, ceramides, adenosine
• Fragrance-free: yes

Best for Eyes & Lips: Innisfree Green Tea PDRN Bounce Booster Eye & Lip Serum

Save to wishlistSave to wishlist

Innisfree

Green Tea PDRN Bounce Booster Eye & Lip Serum

$26

Amazon

$26

Sephora

Felbin applying the Innisfree Green Tea PDRN Bounce Booster Eye & Lip Serum

Sarah Felbin

Why it's worth it: Instead of salmon-derived PDRN, the formula relies on 15% Green Tea PDRN, which comes with its own skin-soothing advantages. "Green tea-derived PDRN pairs naturally with anti-inflammatory catechins and EGCG," says Backman; in other words, green tea itself is rich in antioxidant compounds that can calm irritation and defend against environmental stressors. Squalane, shea butter, and nourishing plant oils like sunflower and soybean oils provide the lightweight hydration you'd expect from a traditional lip balm or eye serum, but with the added benefit of ingredients that actively target wrinkles and loss of firmness: The brand's proprietary Green Tea Exosomes and peptide complex improve the look of elasticity, while a 1% encapsulated retinol complex smooths fine lines and refines texture.

“This may be a good option for someone who doesn’t typically tolerate retinoids but still wants the smoothing and firming benefits they offer, particularly in delicate areas of the face,” says Dr. Yoo. “The addition of green tea and PDRN may counteract potential irritation and support skin recovery.” Apply this multitasker around the eyes to address crow's feet, around the mouth to soften the appearance of smile lines, and directly onto the lips as a treatment. For daytime, swap it for (or top it with) a lip balm with SPF.

Felbin before applying the Innisfree Green Tea PDRN Bounce Booster Eye & Lip Serum

Sarah Felbin

Felbin after applying the Innisfree Green Tea PDRN Bounce Booster Eye & Lip Serum

Sarah Felbin

Tester feedback from Felbin

AccordionItemContainerButtonLargeChevron

“Sometimes, serums can be unpleasantly sticky or greasy—not the case with this one from Innisfree. It's soft, lightweight, and only takes a few seconds to sink in. Underneath the eyes, it makes an excellent makeup primer, keeping my skin hydrated all day so my concealer doesn't crease as much. But it secures real MVP status when it comes to lips: It's the only product that has made a difference in my chronically chapped lips. In the morning, I apply it before my lipstick or lip gloss, for soft, smooth lips all day long. Then, at night, I layer it underneath a lip mask for extra protection. If you want to get into PDRN but aren't sure where to start, I highly recommend picking up a tube!” — Felbin, former senior commerce editor

More to know

AccordionItemContainerButtonLargeChevron

• PDRN type: green tea-derived
• Other key ingredients: squalane, shea butter, sunflower oils, soybean oils, Green Tea Exosomes, peptides, 1% encapsulated retinol
• Fragrance-free: yes

Other PDRN skin-care products we love:

Best Mask: Biodance Rejuvenating Caviar PDRN Real Deep Mask

Save to wishlistSave to wishlist

Biodance

Rejuvenating Caviar PDRN Real Deep Mask

$19

Amazon

$19

Sephora

Allure associate social media manager Katie Gunderman wearing and removing the Biodance Rejuvenating Caviar PDRN Real Deep Mask

Katie Gunderman

Why it's worth it: Most PDRN skin-care products put the spotlight on salmon sperm DNA fragments, but Biodance takes a more decadent-sounding approach. The Rejuvenating Caviar PDRN Real Deep Mask combines PDRN with salmon egg extract and 600,000 ppm (60%) Caviar Complex—a blend of proteins, lipids, amino acids, and fatty acids. While the caviar isn't an additional source of the PDRN itself, it may provide additional conditioning and skin-nourishing benefits, says Backman. "The added value comes from the caviar extract's protein-and-lipid complex, not because it’s a superior DNA fragment," she adds. In other words, the caviar isn't there to create a superior form of PDRN—it's there to complement it. While PDRN may target skin recovery, the caviar complex contributes claims to leave skin feeling softer, smoother, and more supple. Rounded out with niacinamide, soothing allantoin, and moisturizing shea butter, this overnight hydrogel mask has all the heavy-hitters you need to encourage plumper skin by morning.

​​Tester feedback from associate social media manager Katie Gunderman

AccordionItemContainerButtonLargeChevron

“The Biodance Rejuvenating Caviar PDRN Real Deep Mask is so hydrating and always gives my skin such relief when its feeling extra dry. Because you can wear this while you sleep in, its the perfect mask to throw on when you need a deep reset. I always wake up looking extra glowy and firm after using it.” —Katie Gunderman, associate social media manager

More to know

AccordionItemContainerButtonLargeChevron

• PDRN type: salmon-derived
• Other key ingredients: caviar, niacinamide, allantoin, shea butter
• Fragrance-free: yes

Best Toner Pads: Mediheal PDRN Lifting Pad

Save to wishlistSave to wishlist

Mediheal

PDRN Lifting Pad

$26

Amazon

$26

Nordstrom

$24

Ulta Beauty

Allure managing editor Alessandra Foresto using the Mediheal PDRN Lifting Pad

Alessandra Foresto

Why it's worth it: Instead of covering your entire face like a traditional sheet mask, Mediheal’s PDRN Lifting Pads can be swiped across skin as a treatment toner or placed on areas prone to sagging or fine lines—such as the cheeks, jawline, or forehead—for a quick, targeted mini-mask treatment. The formula stars rose-derived PDRN paired with niacinamide and glutathione to brighten dullness, adenosine and peptides to soften the appearance of fine lines, and barrier-supporting hydrators like panthenol, ectoin, squalane, betaine, and allantoin. If you're prone to congestion or breakouts, there’s also gluconolactone (PHA) to provide gentle exfoliation, smooth texture, and keep pores clear—without the irritation that can come with stronger acids.

Foresto before using the Mediheal PDRN Lifting Pad

Alessandra Foresto

Foresto after using the Mediheal PDRN Lifting Pad

Alessandra Foresto

Tester feedback from managing editor Alessandra Foresto

AccordionItemContainerButtonLargeChevron

“I find this formula has the perfect balance of ingredients for my combination skin—I have eczema but also get breakouts on my T-zone. I find these pads pretty moisturizing (I see glycerin and squalane in the ingredient list, as well as panthenol and allantoin) and they are a nice first step for my dry skin. They also claim to fight acne and tighten pores (they contain niacinamide), and I can see that they have definitely reduced the amount of breakouts I've had in the past few weeks. While I have yet to see a clear difference in lifting, they do have some firming and smoothing ingredients said to fight fine lines with repeat use, so I'll keep swiping these pads on twice a day for now! The spatula to pick up the pads is kind of genius. It has little spikes that make it easier to pick up a single pad.” —Alessandra Foresto, managing editor

More to know

AccordionItemContainerButtonLargeChevron

• PDRN type: rose-derived
• Other key ingredients: niacinamide, glutathione, adenosine, peptides, panthenol, ectoin, squalane, betaine, allantoin, gluconolactone
• Fragrance-free: yes

Best Moisturizer: Arencia Deep Water Surge Serum 30

Save to wishlistSave to wishlist

Arencia

Deep Water Surge Hydrating Serum 30

$20

Sephora

Why it's worth it: Arencia’s Deep Water Surge Hydrating Serum 30 has the bouncy, cloud-like texture of a gel moisturizer—it's even housed in a jar—but delivers the concentrated ingredient lineup and quick absorption you'd expect from a serum. Plant-derived PDRN purports to soothe skin and supports a healthy moisture barrier, while eight forms of hyaluronic acid that drench skin with hydration at multiple levels. Ceramides, panthenol, and squalane lock in moisture, while niacinamide brightens and supports an even skin tone. It also features copper tripeptide-1 and several signal peptides—ingredients that essentially act as messengers, helping tell skin to ramp up processes associated with collagen production and repair. It’s especially well-suited for dehydrated, dull, or early aging skin that wants serious hydration and a firmer, bouncier look without the weight of a traditional cream.

Lee applying the Arencia Deep Water Surge Serum 30

Christa Joanna Lee

Lee after applying the Arencia Deep Water Surge Serum 30

Christa Joanna Lee

Tester feedback from Lee

AccordionItemContainerButtonLargeChevron

“K-beauty never fails to surprise me when it comes to texture, and Arencia's Deep Water Surge Hydrating Serum is a great example. It's technically a serum, but when you open the jar, it's definitely more like a bouncy, Jell-O-like gel moisturizer. As someone with perpetually dry skin, I wasn't convinced something so lightweight could give my skin the hydration I need—but I was wrong! The cushiony texture melts in right away and keeps moisture locked in." —Lee, contributing commerce writer

More to know

AccordionItemContainerButtonLargeChevron

• PDRN type: plant-derived
• Other key ingredients: niacinamide, glutathione, adenosine, peptides, panthenol, ectoin, squalane, betaine, allantoin, gluconolactone
• Fragrance-free: yes

Frequently Asked Questions

Why has PDRN become so popular in Korean skin care specifically?

The rise of PDRN in Korean skin care is a natural extension of what K-beauty does best, which is "translating clinic-adjacent ingredients and procedures into consumer skin care,” says Dr. Yoo. And PDRN fits perfectly into Korea's long-standing fascination with injectable skin boosters and post-procedure skin repair. As injectable PDRN treatments have gained popularity in dermatology clinics, topical PDRN serums, creams, and masks have followed, giving consumers a way to incorporate the ingredient into their daily routines.

Does PDRN skin care actually work?

Experts caution that the science behind topical PDRN remains largely theoretical. While injectable PDRN has been studied for wound healing and tissue repair, there are currently no robust human clinical trials demonstrating that PDRN delivers the same benefits when applied topically in skin-care products. Most of the research has been conducted in laboratory settings, with PDRN applied directly to cells in petri dishes. According to Romanowski, this means that just because an ingredient shows promise in cell cultures doesn't mean it will perform the same way once it's formulated into a serum or cream and applied to skin.

Another major question is whether PDRN molecules are even capable of penetrating the skin deeply enough to reach the receptors they're purported to target. "There's a principle in skin care that something can only penetrate your skin if it's small enough—typically 500 daltons," Romanowski explains. PDRN fragments are significantly larger than that threshold, raising questions about how much can actually reach the dermis, where these cellular interactions would need to occur. As Dr. Yoo notes, "the efficacy differs between PDRN in over-the-counter products and injectables," meaning topical PDRN products shouldn't be viewed as interchangeable with those in-office treatments (which again, are not FDA-approved stateside).

What is plant-derived PDRN?

Plant-derived PDRN—sometimes marketed as "phyto-PDRN" or "vegan PDRN"—“uses DNA fragments sourced from botanicals such as rice, green tea, ginseng, and rose, as well as through microbial biotechnology and fermentation,” says Backman. While the molecule comes from a different biological source and its DNA fragment profile may differ from traditional salmon-derived PDRN, she notes that "based on available research, plant PDRN appears to work through the same A2A receptor mechanism as salmon-derived PDRN." In other words, it appears to activate the same pathways involved in skin repair, wound healing, inflammation regulation, and collagen production, meaning it may deliver many of the same skin-repairing and regenerative benefits despite coming from an entirely different source.

Is it worth using if you’re already using ingredients like retinol, peptides, or growth factors?

If you're already using retinol, peptides, vitamin C, or other proven actives, think of PDRN as a complementary ingredient rather than a replacement. "Retinoids remain the gold standard and have stronger evidence for collagen remodeling and photoaging," says Dr. Yoo. In fact, the dermatologists and cosmetic chemists we spoke with consistently pointed to ingredients like retinoids, peptides, vitamin C, and niacinamide as having far stronger evidence for improving skin over time. Retinoids, in particular, are backed by decades of research showing they can stimulate collagen production and improve the appearance of photoaging.

That's also why you'll often find those ingredients listed right alongside PDRN in product formulas. "That's essentially how skin care works," Romanowski previously told Allure. The ingredients that help "tell a story" are often paired with tried-and-true workhorses that actually deliver many of the visible benefits. While Dr. Yoo notes that PDRN may help support other actives through hydration, barrier repair, and recovery, experts say it's difficult to know how much of a formula's results can be attributed to PDRN itself. Bottom line? PDRN's popularity is outpacing the available research, so while you can try it, your best bet for results is to seek out a formula that pairs PDRN with tried-and-true actives.

Meet the experts

• Sherry Backman, a cosmetic chemist based in Brattleboro, Vermont
• Charlotte Cho, aesthetician and co-founder of Soko Glam based in New York City
• Kelly Dobos, a Cincinnati-based cosmetic chemist
• Mona Gohara, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in Hamden, Connecticut
• Marisal Mou, a cosmetic chemist based in New York City
• Perry Romanowski, a Chicago-based cosmetic chemist
• Jane Yoo, MD, a dual board-certified dermatologist and Mohs surgeon based 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 PDRN serums, 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.

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

While many Western luminizers are designed to sculpt cheekbones or deliver high-impact shine, Korean highlighters take a softer approach, enhancing skin with natural-looking radiance rather than an obvious stripe of shimmer. Much of this philosophy stems from K-beauty ideals like mulgwang skin (translating to a “watery glow”), which describes a deeply hydrated complexion where the glow appears to come from the skin itself. "The focus is heavily on skin care and layering hydration to create a natural, healthy-looking glow," says Christine Oh, a makeup artist based in Toronto.

That's why many Korean highlighters blur the line between makeup and skin care, often incorporating ingredients like hyaluronic acid, ceramides, peptides, and squalane to support a dewy-looking complexion. The result can range from a subtle mulgwang radiance to a more reflective glass-skin glow. Whether you prefer a barely-there sheen or a more luminous finish, ahead are the formulas Korean makeup artists are loving.

Our Top Korean Highlighters

• Best Overall: Clio Prism Highlighter, $26
• Best Blurring: Lilybyred Luv Beam Glow Veil, $16
• Best Shade Range: Fwee Glitz Stone Highlighter, $20
• Best Buildable: Jung Saem Mool Artist Cushion Highlighter, $23

Frequently Asked QuestionsAccordionItemContainerButtonLargeChevron

• What makes Korean highlighters different from Western highlighters?
• How should you apply Korean highlighters?
• How do Korean highlighters perform on deeper skin tones?
• Meet the experts
• How we test and review products
• Our staff and testers

Best Overall: Clio Prism Highlighter

Save to wishlistSave to wishlist

Clio

Prism Highlighter

$26

Amazon

Why it's worth it: If you want people complimenting your skin—not your makeup—reach for Clio's Prism Highlighter. "This highlighter gives a beautiful, subtle-to-medium glow that works well for almost everyone," says Oh. Those who prefer a blinding, mirror-like highlight may find it too understated, but for anyone seeking a natural-looking gleam, it's hard to beat. Oh loves that its six shades cater to cool, warm, and neutral undertones. "It creates a glow without looking overly glittery or heavy on the skin," she says.

Pircilla Pae, a makeup artist based in Los Angeles, also calls it her "little secret to a soft and radiant glow." She especially loves its texture (calling it “cloud-like”) as well as the sensorial finish enhanced by finely milled powders, moisturizing squalane and glycerin, and hydrolyzed rice protein, which softens and conditions skin. Pae recommends dusting it onto the high points of the face with a small fan brush for a glass-skin effect.

Allure associate social media manager Katie Gunderman applying the Clio Prism Highlighter

Katie Gunderman

Gunderman after applying the Clio Prism Highlighter

Katie Gunderman

​​Tester feedback from associate social media manager Katie Gunderman

AccordionItemContainerButtonLargeChevron

“The Clio Prism Highlighter delivers the most beautiful iridescent shine. The formula is creamy with super fine shimmer and no chunky glitter, which I love in a highlight, and the smooth powder applies well both with your finger or a brush. These are great to use when you want a slight color reflection, and I love to match them to other elements of my makeup like my eyeliner.” —Katie Gunderman, associate social media manager

More to know

AccordionItemContainerButtonLargeChevron

• Shades: 6
• Formulation: powder
• Key ingredients: mica, squalane, glycerin, hydrolyzed rice protein
• Fragrance-free: yes

Best Blurring: Lilybyred Luv Beam Glow Veil

Save to wishlistSave to wishlist

Lilybyred

Luv Beam Glow Veil

$16

Amazon

Allure beauty director Sarah Kinonen applying the Lilybyred Luv Beam Glow Veil

Sarah Kinonen

Why it's worth it: We love K-beauty for many reasons, but its irresistibly cute packaging is often what catches our eye. Thankfully, Lilybyred's heart-shaped compact has plenty of substance to back up its charm: Its unique jelly texture lives somewhere between a cream and a powder, gliding into skin for a glow that becomes one with your complexion rather than sitting on top of it. The formula delivers a soft sheen thanks to light-reflecting pearl pigments, synthetic fluorphlogopite (a refined form of mica known for its smooth, non-gritty sheen), and mineral pigments that boost brightness and create a subtle effect as they catch the light. Emollients give it that bouncy, almost cushiony feel, while silicone-based ingredients help blur the look of pores and fine lines.

Kinonen before applying the Lilybyred Luv Beam Glow Veil

Sarah Kinonen

Kinonen after applying the Lilybyred Luv Beam Glow Veil

Sarah Kinonen

Tester feedback from beauty director Sarah Kinonen

AccordionItemContainerButtonLargeChevron

“If you had asked me how I felt about highlighter 10 years ago, I would have told you that it was my everything. My makeup look simply wasn't complete without a tap or two of the luminous stuff swept across my cheekbones. Nowadays, I typically skip the product altogether and just rely on my liquid blush for the same sort of glow. But then I tried the Lilyred Luv Beam Glow Veil, and this heart-shaped compact may be the reason highlighter makes its way back into my routine. While I normally use cream and liquid base products, there's something about this silky pressed powder that just… works for me. It's super lightweight—but buildable— and comes in six shimmery shades (pinks, peaches, purples, and even pearly iridescent). I've been using the latter, Dreamy Beam, on top of my blush, and the finish is a low-key sheen as opposed to stand-out sparkle. It's so pretty!” —Sarah Kinonen, beauty director

More to know

AccordionItemContainerButtonLargeChevron

• Shades: 4
• Formulation: powder
• Key ingredients: mica, synthetic fluorphlogopite, titanium dioxide, tin oxide
• Fragrance-free: yes

Best Shade Range: Fwee Glitz Stone Highlighter

Save to wishlistSave to wishlist

Fwee

Glitz Stone Highlighter

$20

Amazon

Allure contributing commerce writer Christa Joanna Lee applying the Fwee Glitz Stone Highlighter in Merry Aurora

Christa Joanna Lee

Why it's worth it: If you've never quite figured out whether your undertones lean warm or cool (a quick trick: Gold jewelry tends to flatter warm undertones, while silver often shines on cooler ones), Fwee's Glitz Stone Highlighter offers an entirely different way to choose your shade—just pick your birth month and go. Because the pigments are intentionally sheer and translucent, the shades are surprisingly flexible across a wide range of skin tones. Inspired by the gemstones traditionally associated with each month, the collection spans 12 shades, from March's aquamarine-toned “Marine Baby” to May's emerald-hued “Lucky Clover.” But don't let the more colorful pans throw you off: Each shade delivers prismatic shimmer that shifts in the light, creating a multidimensional glow with just the faintest hint of color. Our tester found the finish slightly more glittery than others on this list, making it a great pick for anyone who prefers a more sparkly highlight.

Lee before applying the Fwee Glitz Stone Highlighter

Christa Joanna Lee

Lee after applying the Fwee Glitz Stone Highlighter

Christa Joanna Lee

Tester feedback from contributing commerce writer Christa Joanna Lee

AccordionItemContainerButtonLargeChevron

“I originally gravitated toward Fwee's Glitz Stone Highlighter in Love Quartz since neutral champagne tones are usually more my speed. But while it delivered a pretty sheen, I found it just a touch too subtle for my personal taste. Enter Merry Aurora. I'll admit, I was skeptical—a lavender-toned highlighter sounded like it could look too icy or pale against my skin tone. Instead, just a few taps gave my skin the prettiest multidimensional glow. I already wear a serum foundation that leaves my complexion looking pretty dewy, but this takes things to the next level, adding an almost angelic halo on my cheekbones that catches the light from every angle. Definitely start with a light hand—as it's easy to overdo it.” —Christa Joanna Lee, contributing commerce writer

More to know

AccordionItemContainerButtonLargeChevron

• Shades: 12
• Formulation: powder
• Key ingredients: mica, synthetic fluorphlogopite, titanium dioxide, tin oxide, calcium titanium borosilicate
• Fragrance-free: yes

Best for Mature Skin: Hince True Dimension Radiance Balm

Save to wishlistSave to wishlist

Hince

True Dimension Radiance Balm

$22

Amazon

Why it's worth it: Half of Hince’s True Dimension Radiance Balm's eight-shade range—Clear, Light, Dawn Ray, and Gleaming—function as sheer highlighters, while the remaining shades lean rosier, doubling as blushes and lip colors with a subtle sheen. No matter which shade you choose, the balm makes for “a versatile multi-use product that can be used as a complexion luminizer or lip balm," says Oh, noting that the stick highlighter format makes it convenient for touch-ups and on-the-go application. Formulated with squalane and safflower seed oil, which is rich in barrier-supporting linoleic acid, the balm wears like a second skin for light-catching dimension—without visible shimmer or glitter. While Oh recommends it for all skin types, it's especially well-suited for dry, mature, or textured skin, since its hydrating balm formula imparts luminosity without emphasizing fine lines or flakiness.

More to know

AccordionItemContainerButtonLargeChevron

• Shades: 8
• Formulation: balm
• Key ingredients: squalane, safflower seed oil
• Fragrance-free: yes

Best for Dry Skin: Glint Liquid Gel Highlighter

Save to wishlistSave to wishlist

Glint

Liquid Gel Highlighter

$20

Amazon

Why it's worth it: If powder highlighters in the past have clung to dry patches, Glint’s Liquid Highlighter offers a more forgiving alternative. "This formula melds beautifully into the skin and creates a natural-looking glow from within," says Oh, who loves mixing it into foundation or applying it lightly to specific areas. “It gives skin a healthy radiance that looks effortless and naturally luminous." The secret lies in its hydrating formula: Multiple forms of hyaluronic acid draw moisture into the skin at different levels, while argan oil (loaded with fatty acids) reduces moisture loss to begin with. It comes in both a pearly pink shade and a clear option, the latter of which adds dimension and glow without altering the tone of your makeup.

More to know

AccordionItemContainerButtonLargeChevron

• Shades: 2 (including clear)
• Formulation: liquid
• Key ingredients: argan oil, hyaluronic acid, vitamin E
• Fragrance-free: yes

Best Buildable: Jung Saem Mool Artist Cushion Highlighter

Save to wishlistSave to wishlist

Jung Saem Mool

Artist Cushion Highlighter

$22

Amazon

Why it's worth it: The best highlighters give you options: a subtle sheen for everyday wear and a diamond-level glow when the occasion calls for it (though in our book, you never need an excuse). That buildability is exactly where Jung Saem Mool's Artist Cushion Highlighter (ahem) shines. One layer gets you "a very refined glow," says Oh, while a couple more taps dial up the radiance "without disrupting makeup underneath." Reflective pigments like mica, titanium dioxide, and tin oxide create that customizable glow.

Meanwhile, the formula pairs hydrating glycerin and sodium hyaluronate with barrier-supporting ceramides and soothing rose water to keep skin looking fresh and luminous. "Jung Saem Mool's complexion products, like this highlighter, always aim to make skin look as natural as possible," says Oh.

More to know

AccordionItemContainerButtonLargeChevron

• Shades: 2
• Formulation: cream
• Key ingredients: glycerin, sodium hyaluronate, ceramides, rose water
• Fragrance-free: no

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes Korean highlighters different from Western highlighters?

The biggest difference between Korean and Western highlighters comes down to their overall approach to glow and pigmentation. "Korean beauty products tend to focus on creating a natural, healthy-looking radiance—more of an 'it's there, but not there' effect," says Oh. Many formulas are also more skin care-focused, featuring ingredients like ceramides, peptides, and hyaluronic acid to enhance the skin's texture and create the smooth, hydrated mulgwang or "glass skin" look K-beauty is known for.

You'll often find unique formats like cushion compact highlighters and balm textures that "blend seamlessly into the skin for a more natural finish," Oh says. By contrast, "many Western highlighters are designed to strongly emphasize and sculpt specific facial features with higher pigmentation and shimmer," sometimes prioritizing intensity, sparkle, and definition, she explains. "Neither approach is better or worse—they simply reflect different beauty philosophies and makeup trends."

How should you apply Korean highlighters?

When applying Korean highlighters, less is often more. "Korean makeup focuses heavily on achieving a natural, subtle glow, so the application is usually much softer and lighter," says Oh. Rather than sweeping on product for maximum shine, she recommends using "a gentle tapping motion with minimal pressure to create a seamless, skin-like radiance." While the techniques used for Western highlighters are similar, Oh notes that they often involve "more pressure, layering, or sweeping motions to build stronger pigmentation and shine," resulting in a more defined highlight.

How do Korean highlighters perform on deeper skin tones?

Korean highlighters can absolutely work beautifully on deeper skin tones—it all comes down to choosing the right shade. “Because many K-beauty highlighters are designed to create a subtle, skin-like glow rather than intense shimmer, selecting a shade that complements your complexion is key,” says Oh. She recommends skipping icy or pale tones in favor of warmer hues like bronze, champagne gold, and rose gold, which tend to look more natural and radiant on deeper complexions without appearing ashy or chalky.

Meet the experts

• Christine Oh, a makeup artist based in Toronto, Canada
• Pircilla Pae, a makeup artist based in Los Angeles

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 Korean highlighters, 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.

Getty ImagesSave StorySave this storySave StorySave this story

Fashion Month is fun, but there's something so special about Paris's Haute Couture Week. It's where houses and designers get to show their most awe-inspiring, whimsical, over-the-top creations and where celebrities have fun getting all glammed up to match the vibes of their favorite designers. One such celebrity is Cardi B, who frequently attends Couture Week and always brings the drama with her hair, makeup, and wardrobe.

For the Robert Wun show in Paris—her second of the season so far—Cardi leaned into sculptural elements with her entire look, especially her hair. I keep wanting to call it a couture donut, but that doesn't adequately capture the precision and perfection of the updo. Cardi's dark hair, styled as always by her go-to hair artist Tokyo Stylez, was slicked back from her face and gathered into a truly enormous circular shape right at the top of her head. You can't call it a bun, because it's definitely not in topknot territory; this is an Updo with a capital “U,” given its height, size, and bold silhouette. It's a perfect circle, likely the work of a very strategic shaping accessory underneath the layers of her hair to hold the hair in place and set the foundation for such a unique shape.

Getty Images

There's more to this updo than just its large size and round shape, however; it cleverly mimicked the motif of Cardi's red mermaid gown, what with its circular bodice and neckline; the dramatic flare of her skirt; and the bubbly red handbag she carried. Every little detail worked together so perfectly, which, come to think of it, is really the definition of couture.

Like I said above, Couture Week is a chance for stars to experiment and express themselves with their glam. In addition to Cardi, we spotted Sabrina Carpenter, fresh off attending Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce's wedding, sitting front row at Dior in a dramatic departure from her usual vintage bombshell hair: a pair of loose, wavy pigtail braids! If you've got a more formal occasion on your summer schedule (even if it's not a celebrity wedding or a couture show), why not take the opportunity to go big and bold with a fun updo? Cardi would be proud.

Collage: Mark Baker-Sanchez; Source images: Courtesy of Bath & Body Works.Save StorySave this storySave StorySave this story

It’s no secret that the world is feeling a little nostalgic right now. Millennials are reliving their glory days with sequels like The Devil Wears Prada 2 and relaunches of brands such as Marc Jacobs Beauty. Gen-Z is fascinated by the Y2K era including all the trends many of us would like to forget (low-rise jeans and stripe-y highlights, anyone?). It’s only natural, then, that the Millennial Queen herself, Hilary Duff, is back on tour for the first time in almost 20 years. The last time she went on tour in the U.S. was 2007. Eyebrows were being plucked into oblivion, bronzer was used in excess, and hair was parted deeply to one side.

Today, her now-grown fans pack into stadiums and amphitheatres dressed in their best early-aughts outfits and matching butterfly clips to experience the mass catharsis of hearing her belt out “Come Clean” and “What Dreams Are Made Of,” alongside her latest hits like “Roommates” and “Weather for Tennis.” Duff delivers exactly what we all need right now: A little dose of childhood fun paired with appreciation for the journey we’ve all been on since the early 2000s.

This 2026 version of Hilary Duff is exactly how you imagine her. Her contagious smile and familiar giggle create a relaxed vibe in the penthouse suite we are meeting at The Proper Hotel in Austin. She’s back in her home state of Texas, exuding a relaxed glamour only someone with her years of Hollywood experience can have. You would never guess that she was in the midst of her first full-scale world tour in almost two decades.

Duff was 19 the last time she went on a world tour. Now 38, she returns to the stage a little older, a little wiser, and accompanied by a supportive husband (and talented musician, Matthew Koma), four kids, and an elite skin-care routine. And while we are very interested in said routine (more on that in a second), the first purpose of our meeting is to take Duff on a trip down memory lane—beauty style.

Duff performs onstage for SiriusXM’s Small Stage Series in May 2026.

Getty Images

Duff looks at photographs laid out in front of her—captured between 2001 and 2025—with each one showing a different era of her beauty journey. One photo catches her eye: a screenshot from her 2003 “Come Clean” music video. This “glam was super iconic,” Duff says. “I’m not embarrassed about it.” She credits makeup artist Rachel Goodwin with creating the look, but notes that she did love that heavy black eyeliner for her every-day glam, too.

“One thing I’m kind of obsessed with is the blotting out of the lip,” adds Duff. “I remember putting foundation on my lips to make them go away, which is an insane thought today. Now, people are over-lining, and want their lips to be big and juicy and stand out, and this was like, ‘how do we minimize the lip?’” Duff can’t help but laugh at the thought of it now.

The singer and actor acknowledges that she’s come a long way in her beauty journey. “Less is more,” she notes. “I’ve always heard everyone say that as they age…but it’s true.” Still, Duff reminds us, “that doesn’t mean that it has to be boring. I continue to play with makeup and am inspired by how I wake up, what the vibe is for the day, and what I’m wearing.” She understands the power of lightly applying some colorful eye shadow and mascara. “I’d rather have a fresh face than a full face of makeup.”

While Duff cringes at a photo of her famous character in A Cinderella Story, Sam Montgomery, and her unbrushed barrel curls—“it looks so prom, so crispy”—she smiles at her super glossy lips in the film’s party scene. “She is glossy and she is shining,” Duff notes. “I’m so happy that this trend is back; it’s all about juicy, glossy, bright, poppy. It just feels good.”

Courtesy of Bath & Body Works

In a genius nostalgia play, Duff has teamed up with Bath & Body Works for the launch of their new Fruit Fusion line. After all, what millennial didn’t save up their allowance to get the latest Bath & Body Works body splash and matching hand sanitizer in the early 2000s?

The Fruit Fusion launch is a collection of hand sanitizers, lip oils, perfume mists, hand and body lotions, and more. The lotions include hyaluronic acid, the much-loved ingredient that helps bring in and hold onto moisture in the skin. And, of course, everything smells delicious, with scents ranging from Watermelon Whirl and Tangerine Twirl to Berry Bliss and Banana Blend.

Conveniently, Duff keeps hydration top of mind while taking on this world tour, primarily performing in outdoor venues in this summer’s intense heat. “I live in California where it’s dry. I’m 38. I feel like I’m always dry. A huge part of my routine at this stage of my life is hydration,” she says. “I feel best when I’m hydrated on the inside, hydrated on the outside. The Bath & Body Works Fruit Fusion line has amazing products that keep me moisturized for days, and when I feel my skin feeling good, I typically feel good.”

The partnership feels natural for Duff, a lifelong Bath & Bodyworks fan. “I feel like it’s a very joyous, happy line; it’s really fitting with what’s happening in my life and my tour right now,” she says. During this tour, she has been pairing together the Tangerine Twirl and Banana Blend body washes and lotions. “It’s very summery, happy, bright, sweet, and that has been my summer mode.”

In addition to using her favorite Fruit Fusion products on this tour, Duff is a firm believer in Therabody’s TheraFace Depuffing Wand to both depuff her skin and help with product absorption before every show. To also help with depuffing and brightening of the skin, Duff loves YSE’s The Overachiever undereye patches. “She’s 38,” Duff playfully adds, “we’ve got to hydrate those lines.” She seals it all in with the crowd-pleasing One/Size setting spray, ensuring her makeup stays pristine while running around stage in the summer heat.

The Lucky Me tour will continue its US leg through August. In September, Duff will take the tour internationally, starting with Ireland and the UK. In the meantime, you can catch her smiling her way through her iconic bops on stage, sporting her favorite Banana Blend lip oil.