Over the weekend, Fox's longtime manicurist, Brittany Boyce, shared a photo of her new set via Instagram. In the photo, her nails feature a shiny, silver chrome finish with multicolored jewels glue to the top of each nail. Each finger is embellished with several jewels, all of which came in different shapes and color, and they were added on in an abstract pattern.
Boyce has been the brain behind a number of Fox's complex manicures and nail designs lately. Back in May, she wore a manicure that featured angel artwork painted over a baby pink base color and a border made of 3D gel and silver chrome, and after that, she wore hot pink airbrush nails in a coffin shape that were embellished with tiny metal balls on each side. It's looking like I might need to add Megan Fox to my nail inspiration mood board.
Read ahead to see how you can get the bejeweled look at home.
We're on a mission to better understand our readers and deliver even more of the content you crave. Tell us all about the beauty products you love, from skin and haircare to makeup, nail polish, and perfume. We want to know all about your routines, where you find inspiration, and where you shop.
To thank you for sharing your thoughts, we're offering a chance to win a $150 Sephora gift card when you complete our quick 8-minute survey.
Your feedback is invaluable to us. Ready to share your insights? Take the survey here!
This survey is open to our U.S. readers, and the sweepstakes prizes are limited to U.S. residents. Our full terms and conditions apply. Your survey responses will remain anonymous, and your contact information will only be used for the sweepstakes. Don’t wait—share your thoughts with us before the survey closes on September 30, 2025.
]]>Biles opted for a classic look: a bun hairstyle that is equal parts functional, yet chic. To achieve the bun, her hair was first parted down the middle and gathered into a ponytail. The ends were then tucked into a bun, and some type of gel or flyaway control product was applied to the front of her hair to keep the style sleek all day.
Bun hairstyles have made a comeback lately, as they are not only extremely practical given the scorching summer heat in many parts of the United States, but they can also be styled for a variety of occasions. Selena Gomez was just spotted in her version of the look at an event promoting her new fragrance. Tracee Ellis Ross wore a cornrow style while visiting Martha’s Vineyard recently. Even Jennifer Lopez has been spotted in the look.
The look has been cemented as a part of the “clean-girl” aesthetic on TikTok, but beyond social media trends, it’s ideal for those seeking a low-maintenance, high-impact hairstyle. The bun can stand alone or be paired with styles like baby braids, half-up, half-down looks, and more. While buns are fairly simple to recreate, achieving the sleekness of Biles’s is where the real challenge lies. Keep reading to shop the products that will help you create the sleekest bun just in time for transitional fall hairstyles.
Denman makes some of my favorite detangling brushes, especially if you're styling wet hair.
Another detangling favorite, this time for dry hair, is this brush from Bur Bur. (Bonus points for it looking really chic.)
When working with my natural hair, I like to divide my hair into two sections horizontally, secure each of them with a hair tie, and use a larger (and more aesthetically pleasing) hair tie to finish the look.
Any sleek hairstyle requires a strong-hold hair gel like this one from Pattern.
Tame any additional flyaways with a hair taming wand like this one from IGK.
Palmer shared the photo dump on Aug. 17 as an homage to the start of Virgo season. "My birthday is just around the corner…" the caption reads. In the photos, her hair is cut into a '90s-style pixie cut with just a few inches of length and her hair flat-ironed straight. She wore very minimal makeup, swiping on a few coats of mascara, a bit of lip gloss, some blush, and a thin brow.
Palmer has been experimenting with her hair a lot this year. She's been wearing what now appears to be a signature copper shade since February, when she debuted the color along with mermaid waves at Vanity Fair and Instagram’s Vanities Party, and shortly after debuting her color change, she stepped out wearing a blunt bob, aka the unofficial haircut of the summer. Around July, she attended the Essence Festival wearing chic goddess box braids before trading those in a few weeks later for long, loose curls.
While most celebs have been leaning towards bob haircuts this year, the pixie cut has also been up there as one of the haircuts currently taking over Hollywood. Emma Stone underwent the chop and debuted a dramatic pixie cut at the Golden Globes back in January, and Renée Zellwegger did the same when she covered the February 2025 issue of British Vogue. Keke is the latest celeb to get the big chop, but I'm certain there'll be plenty more where that came from.
If you're also considering a pixie cut as your fall hairstyle, read ahead for a few hair essentials you'll need to have in your inventory.
Having shorter hair means you'll need to use a smaller heat tool that's meant to be used on hair that's closer to the scalp. This is just a mini version of BaBylissPRO's fan favorite titanium iron that'll give you slick, glassy hair in no time.
Before adding heat, protect your strands from damage and dryness with a heat protectant. This one also prevents breakage and reduces frizz.
If your hair is naturally curly, you can also skip the heat and opt to wear your short cut in its curly state. To get the best definition, use a smoothing curl gel that dries down on the hair without hardening or causing flakiness.
Give flatter hair a more voluminous look with this lightweight texture spray.
Get rid of frizz and flyaways or give yourself a slicked-back look with this soft styling stick that glides onto the hair like butter and provides hold without pulling or dragging at it.
Fall is typically the time of year when all of the classic brunettes come out to play, but this year is heavy on the transitional hues like "bronde" that create a soft difference. Many of fall's biggest color trends are perfect for anyone who wants to dip their toes into a new shade without going too extreme. Think of strawberry blonde and warm beige brunette as examples.
This is even true of the various shades of red. Red wine supernova, a more polarizing take on red hair, reigned supreme earlier in the year, but natural hues like auburn are back with a vengeance. "You’ll definitely need to chat with your stylist to find a version that’s most flattering on your unique skin tone and undertones, as not all reds work well on everyone," explains Temur Hamilton, premier hair colorist and stylist, owner of TEMUR.
As someone who hasn't dyed their hair before, it's high key very comforting to know that easing into a new color is wildly on trend. While these comforting fall hair color trends might just get me to make that salon appointment, scroll through for yourself to find the perfect fall hair color inspo.
Honey Butter Blonde
Blonde isn't a hair color exclusive to warmer months. In fact, several variations on the hue are coming in strong for fall. "Honey butter blonde is gaining popularity as clients shift away from the cooler, icy blondes that dominated the last few seasons," says Sean Michael, hairstylist and owner of Salon Beau. Honey butter blonde is a blend of soft golden and buttery tones, creating a more natural-looking blonde that Michael explains is flattering and easier to maintain. "It tends to work well on fair to medium skin tones with warm or neutral undertones, and it’s a great option for blondes looking to add dimension and warmth for fall without going too dark," he adds.
Caramel-Coated Highlights
While brunette shades might seem like a no-brainer for fall hair colors, they aren't all created equally. The addition of caramel highlights easily transforms a more basic brunette color. "Caramel highlights add richness and depth to brunette hair," says Hamilton. "These shades mimic the full hues and warm tones that we associate with fall, deep brown, and lighter golden-brown. It’s a great way to transition into the season, and I love this look on natural brunettes."
Natural Gray Roots
The series finale of And Just Like That might not have been what fans were expecting, but Carrie Bradshaw is still a trendsetter. According to Monique McMahon, global pro ambassador at Christophe Robin, gray blending is huge right now thanks to Sarah Jessica Parker's iconic character. "I love blended grey for my clients as it incorporates a touch of color with their natural gray as it grows out," she says. "Think soft foils to add glimmering lights and shadows to blend the grays rather than covering them. I’m here for this one, and my clients love it."
Warm Beige Brunette
"Warm beige brunette is characterized as a softer brunette with all the richness and none of the heaviness that can sometimes be associated with a classic brunette shade. Michael explains that "the beige undertones keep it from pulling too red or too cool, allowing the highlights to melt into the base tone for a smooth, cohesive look." He notes that this color is perfect for anyone who wants a subtle color change, blondes who are looking to go a bit darker, and brunettes wanting a refresh. "The tone adds depth and shine, while keeping the overall look soft and low maintenance."
Dark Honey
Dark honey is the color of choice for any of the blondes who want to explore the dark side without committing to going full on brunette. "This classic hair color embraces deeper, warmer blonde tones, for an overall darker look without going full brunette," says Hamilton. "It’s a recurring trend every fall because it’s beautiful, natural, and easy to maintain."
Rich Auburn
Winter saw an influx of red wine supernova hair à la Chappell Roan. However, fall is going more natural when exploring red hair color. "Red hues are always popular in the fall, and for my clients who want to incorporate red into their hair, I like to keep things sophisticated and classic with rich auburn," says Hamilton. "This look is definitely red, but unlike some of the super bright colors that have been trending recently (like “Cherry Cola” and “Cowboy Copper”) this one feels natural and timeless."
Burnt Caramel Balayage
Another way to incorporate caramel for fall is with a burnt caramel balayage look. This color is "all about layering warm caramel tones through a brunette base to create richness and depth without lifting the hair too light," says Michael. "It’s a great option for clients who want to brighten their color for fall without committing to blonde. It works especially well on medium to deep skin tones and pairs beautifully with textured or layered cuts, where the color placement enhances movement."
Strawberry Copper
Another highly wearable red is strawberry copper. This softer hue is dominating this year and is still standing strong for fall. "It blends golden and peach undertones into a copper base, making it lighter and less intense than a traditional red," says Michael. "This shade is especially flattering on fair to light-medium skin tones with warm or pink undertones, and it’s a great transitional color for blondes looking to explore red without going fully vibrant or deep."
Golden Chestnut Chocolate
Golden Chestnut Chocolate is the color to look out for. "Its luxe finish has everyone wanting this tone for fall," says McMahon. "It’s the next big thing for brunettes." She explains that many look for softer hues once fall rolls around that this specific color checks off all the right boxes. "Alluring, this hue has a deep chocolate base and shimmers of light golden chestnut. Golden chestnut chocolate is perfect for the green or brown eyed girls, and when our skin is a little paler than during the summer months and needs that extra glimmer to bring it to life."
Rory Gilmore Brunette
There is nothing more quintessentially fall than a Gilmore Girls moment. So when it comes to hair color, Rory Gilmore brunette is that vibe. "Rory Gilmore brunette is a soft, rich and dimensional medium brown," says Hamilton. "Gilmore Girls is often associated with autumn, so this is the perfect season to try out Rory’s very wearable, versatile shade. It looks great on almost everyone, and your colorist should be able to create a version of this style that best complements your skin tone and features."
Bronde
Bronde is the gift that keeps on giving, and it shows absolutely zero signs of going away any time soon. "We are seeing some larger, chunkier-style foils of blonde throughout the top and around the face," says McMahon. "It’s that perfectly effortless blonde tone that just about anyone can wear. Being the perfect balance of blonde and brown, it’s an easy low maintenance color that suits most skin tones and eye colors. Those chunky, blonde 90s foils are back, and looking so sophisticated when mixed with bronde."
Why Trust Marie Claire
For more than 30 years, Marie Claire has been an internationally recognized destination for news, fashion and beauty trends, investigative packages, and more. When it comes to the products Marie Claire recommends, we take your faith in us seriously. Every product that we feature comes personally recommended by a Marie Claire writer or editor, or by an expert we’ve spoken to firsthand.
Meet the Experts
]]>On days when I'm feeling fancy, I can solve my congestion problem by simply booking a facial and having the gunk and dirt in my pores extracted to reveal much softer, smoother skin. But that's not always the most economical or convenient route to take, so when I want to address clogged pores and texture at home, there's a special lineup of products I turn to to get the job done.
Ahead, you'll find my personalized skincare routine for addressing oiliness and skin congestion.
Deep Clean
Since I’m an oily girl, I gravitate towards heavy duty cleansers that work hard to remove dirt, excess oil, makeup, or any other product that can sit on my face and cause my pores to potentially clog. This means makeup removers that can break down foundation and complexion makeup in one go and cleansers with exfoliating acids that can prevent my pores from clogging in the first place.
I wear makeup almost everyday, so before bed, I always like to make sure I’m using a cleansing oil that can gently break down my makeup. This is one of my favorites; it has a really light texture that almost makes me forget that I’m even using an oil, and a small amount of it can typically go a long way.
Once my makeup is off, I like to wash a second time with a cleanser made specially for oily skin. This formula from La Roche-Posay does a great job of getting rid of excess oil on my face without making my skin feel overly dry or stripped of moisture.
I’ve used this cleanser almost daily for the last two months—it’s that good! It has exfoliating ingredients (like lactic acid) but it’s still gentle enough for me to use daily without any irritation or redness. It also has a light papaya scent that gives me a bit of an energy boost whenever I use it first thing in the morning.
I love the texture of this cleanser. It’s really soft, but once you actually start to work it into your skin, it transforms into a luscious foam that cleanses without being too rough. It also happens to be a Marie Claire award-winning product—just saying.
Tone It Down
It took me a while to understand how crucial it is to have a good toner (specifically an exfoliating one) in your routine if you want to give your skin a glassy look that you can actually maintain. Over the last few years, I've found the following products to be the most reliable.
In the many years that I’ve been using this toner, it hasn’t let me down once. I can always count on this to gently remove any traces of dirt or makeup that may have been left behind on my skin after cleansing, and any time I’ve noticed my skin feeling a little rough or bumpy, this has cleared it right up.
I love the convenience of a toning pad—they’re really easy to travel with and a great way to exfoliate if you don’t want to get your hands messy. These have a textured side that gently exfoliate along with the glycolic acid. They're not harsh on the skin and helped clear my congestion without any irritation or redness.
Mask On
I don’t mask very often, but when I do, I like to grab products that are specially designed to address excess oil and visible congestion. These are two that I’ve found to be pretty helpful in toning it down.
Sometimes clay masks can dry down and make you feel like there’s a block of cement stuck to your face, but what I love about this mask from Hero Cosmetics is that I can throw it on without necessarily feeling like I’m wearing a mask. It also transforms into a bubbly wash when you rinse it off.
This mask isn’t just for acne-prone skin. You can also use it if, like me, you frequently get small bumps or areas of texture around your nose and forehead. Colloidal sulfur absorbs excess oil on your skin, while azelaic acid can help reduce and prevent breakouts.
Moisture Boost
Since my skin is prone to oiliness, my favorite daytime moisturizers are pretty lightweight and don't feel heavy or greasy on my skin. This often means water-based formulas that absorb easily and have an airy feel.
Neutrogena's oil-free, non-comedogenic formula somehow manages to be both hydrating and soothing at the same time. I like to apply it in the mornings before applying SPF primer and makeup, since it keeps well under makeup without making me appear too oily by midday.
This moisturizer has a light, milky texture that hydrates while minimizing the appearance of excess oil thanks to niacinamide. It also doesn't hurt that it's under $20.
Why Trust Marie Claire
For more than 30 years, Marie Claire has been an internationally recognized destination for news, fashion and beauty trends, investigative packages, and more. When it comes to the products Marie Claire recommends, we take your faith in us seriously. Every product that we feature comes personally recommended by a Marie Claire writer or editor, or by an expert we’ve spoken to firsthand.
]]>I love my Pura just as much as the next person—in fact, it’s what I use in my home about 60 percent of the time. That other 40? Candles. Every and anywhere that I can fit them. There’s something so sensual about illuminating my apartment using just candle light. Not only does it set the most romantic ambiance, but the majority of the ones that I own are scented, so I am engulfed in the most delicious fragrance when I burn them.
As you’ve likely guessed, this means that my candle collection, while not as large as my perfume collection, is… let’s say extensive, so I know a thing or several about the best ones on the market. I’ll never apologize for being a girl with rather expensive taste, but I’ll forewarn that the majority, if not all, of my favorite candles fall on the more luxurious end of the spectrum. Now, ready to make sure that your home is a well-scented as you are? Keep reading to shop my favorite luxury candles.
Best Musky Candles
Musk is one of my favorite perfume notes of all time, so when I thought about what the signature scent of my home should be, of course, I had to find the best musk candles on the market.
I feel like it’s not a very well-known fact that Drake (yes, that one) has a candle line, and every single one of them that I’ve tried is immaculate. Still, I have a clear favorite, and it’s Carby Musk. Lily of the valley, skin musk, and amber woods are some of the notes in this candle, but I must point out that it also has ambergris, which is one of the most expensive fragrance ingredients in the world. The combination of all of them blends into this sweet, floral, and clean scent that I am petitioning him to release in a full-sized eau de parfum formula immediately.
Hot take: Le Labo’s Ambroxide 17 is one of the best fragrance offerings from the brand, period. Yes, this is taking into consideration its traditional eau de parfum line as well. It’s like Another 13 in candle form, and if you’ve never tried that scent, that is to say it’s clean, musky, and a little sweet—i.e., my perfect fragrance profile.
Best Gourmand Candles
Just like with my perfumes, I love a gourmand candle. These have incredible projection, but don’t smell too much like a dessert that’s been left out for too long. (True gourmand lovers know what I mean by this).
Vanilla lovers, your presence is requested. Voluspa’s Baltic Amber is equal parts vanillic and woody, thanks to notes like vanilla orchid, amber resin, and sandalwood. The combination is a mouthwateringly sweet scent that isn’t too cloying and a candle that can be lit year-round, regardless of the season.
Have you ever experienced the light airiness of the sugar that comes directly from sugar cane? That’s here, translated into candle form. Of course, sugar cane is combined with saffron, neroli, oak moss, and a few other notes to give my nose the pleasure of experiencing one of the most beautiful candle scents of all time. It smells like a certain well-known fragrance that may or may not have the number 540 in it, but I leave that up to your personal interpretation.
Best Fruity Candles
Fruity candles are a great way to add some bright and uplifting energy to your space, but I’ve searched a long time to find ones that don’t feel too overwhelmingly zesty or too citrus-forward. If you’re in the same boat, the ones below are the absolute best fruity candles.
Kyoto In Bloom has notes of fresh lime, bergamot, and citrus, and normally that wouldn’t make me look twice at this candle. However, those notes are flanked by others like amber, sandalwood, musk, and vanilla. The combination? An elegant citrus scent that I would douse my entire body in if I could.
Fig is the fruity note that stands out most to me in the candle, and it’s beautifully done. Glossier’s Sandstone also features sandalwood and clary sage, so it feels equal parts fruity, fresh, and woody. It’s one of the cleanest-smelling fruity candles I’ve ever gotten to sniff.
Best Woody Candles
Woods are one of my favorite fragrance categories to explore, but sometimes they can lean a little too smoky. These ones are the perfect balance of fresh, earthy, and clean notes.
I came across this small, independently-owned business on Instagram, and its Mahogany + Teakwood candle was an immediate favorite. The lavender and geranium top notes pair beautifully with the woody base note, and the resulting scent is fresh, clean, and super unisex. It would be a fantastic addition to a housewarming gift or your at-home candle collection (because one sniff of this one and you’ll want to keep it all to yourself).
One of the best woody perfumes of all time, Jo Malone’s Wood Sage and Sea Salt, comes in candle form, and it smells just as good as the perfume. The name is an exact listing of the notes, so it feels like a pretty safe blind buy, but still, if you can’t get to a store to smell the candle in person, just head to your local Sephora to smell the perfume. It’s the same delicious, grounding scent.
Best Floral Candles
The best floral candles, to me, don’t smell too much like a photo-realistic garden. Instead, they’re formulas that offer supporting notes to a central floral ingredient that allows it to truly shine without being overpowering.
I never thought I’d love a tuberose candle, but Versailles from Trudon proved me so wrong. Peonies and mint add a fresh and uplifting element to the candle’s scent profile, while honeysuckle, oak wood, and blue iris add a grounding, almost slightly gourmand element to the combination.
A true rose lover? Look no further for your new favorite candle than Diptyque’s Rose Candle. It has one fragrance note, Rose, and I love burning it in conjunction with my more woody perfumes for a more balanced fragrance overall. It’s almost like layering your perfumes, but the candle version. Invest in the 1500 gram multi-wick style and you'll be set for at least a year or two.
Why Trust Marie Claire
For more than 30 years, Marie Claire has been an internationally recognized destination for news, fashion and beauty trends, investigative packages, and more. When it comes to the products Marie Claire recommends, we take your faith in us seriously. Every product that we feature comes personally recommended by a Marie Claire writer or editor, or by an expert we’ve spoken to firsthand.
]]>That being said, I like to think I’ve pretty much perfected the art of creating soft, hydrated, and supple lips. It’s a mini beauty regimen in and of itself, but it’s well worth it if I never have to feel tightness or see a chapped flake ever again. So without further ado: my foolproof routine to achieve the softest lips of your life.
Lip Basting Routine
I originally learned about lip basting from the one and only Dr. Shereene Idriss when I was in high school—and have been a loyal adopter ever since. The basics: you take a rich moisturizer and put a thick layer on top of your lips. (It looks crazy, but it works.) Give it 10 minutes to cook and the moisture will gradually sink into your lips. Rub the remaining off with a washcloth and you’re good to go.
This is hands-down my preferred lip basting product. It’s thick and creamy (with a subtle fragrance), but leaves my lips unrecognizably soft. I normally apply it with my skincare and let it soak in while I do my makeup.
If I don’t have Weleda on hand, this French Pharmacy staple is a solid option. I love using it on my skin as makeup prep, so I’ll just squeeze out a little extra for my lips. I will say it pills a bit more than Weleda, so make sure you use a towel to get the excess off your lips before continuing.
Prep With Lip Balm
My biggest tip: don’t go straight in with lipstick. I don’t care how hydrating the formula or how many different hyaluronic acid chains it claims to have; a nice non-tinted balm is the ultimate lip primer. It also helps seal in the moisture from lip basting. I personally like to go for clear balms with a silky-to-matte finish.
I collect these—I seriously have 10 lying around so I can stow one away in every single bag and pocket. It’s super lightweight, never pills, and actually nourishes my lips (as opposed to giving them a chalky texture). This is also my go-to treatment before bed. Bonus: the case is refillable.
With cherry extract and shea butter, this luxe balm delivers a heavy dose of nutrients to your lips. My favorite part: it’s pH-balancing, so the soft pink shade will create a tone that’s uniquely tailored to you.
Go in With a Hydrating Lip Liner
A drying lip liner is the worst—it feathers, makes my lips itchy, and honestly fades so much faster than a hydrating one. I like to look for formulas with a creamy base that are infused with ingredients like squalane or hyaluronic acid. Sometimes I’ll just overline my lips, but if I’m feeling wild, I’ll shade in my entire lip to make my lipstick last longer.
Because I prep my lips with a balm pre-lip liner, it takes a special formula to actually adhere to my skin/lips without a disturbing amount of pressure. But ease is what I get—every single time—with this Lancôme formula. It’s creamy, very pigmented, and feels almost more like a lipstick than a liner.
With a jojoba oil infusion that prevent tugging and a lip grip complex that helps this pigment adhere for hours, this is easily in my top picks. I’ll probably have to apply once or twice throughout the day, but it definitely gets me through a meal or two.
Dab on Lipstick
Hear me out: instead of swiping on a thick layer of lipstick, just do a little tap-tap-tap and blot. The finish is definitely lighter, but I find that even satin formulas can have drying tendencies. Plus, it gives a just-pinched finish that’s perfect for everyday makeup.
I didn’t fully get the Pillow Talk hype at first—the OG shade is just a hint too dark for my fair complexion. But then, Charlotte dropped Pillow Talk Fair. It’s a soft, baby pink that looks like my lip shade—just a little bit better.
I’m not super into matte formulas (because of the whole soft lip thing, obviously), but if I want the aesthetic, Westman Atelier is my go-to. It’s a matte that doesn’t feel like one courtesy of hyaluronic acid and peptides.
Top off With Gloss
The finishing touch? A hyper-glossy lip gloss that seals in all the goodness. You can opt for a plumper, but I personally find those drying and prefer thicker glosses that give a filler-like effect. If you love you’re lipstick shade, choose a clear gloss. But for a tinted option? These two are my favorites.
So many brands have tried to copy this innovative formula, but the original remains elite. This has the shiniest, creamiest finish with unbelievable color payoff. I’m partial to shade Reveal 90, but you honestly can’t go wrong.
I’ve professed my love for this gloss extensively, but allow me to reiterate: it’s creamy, hydrating, never clumpy, and deeply hydrates my lips after just a few wears.
Why Trust Marie Claire
For more than 30 years, Marie Claire has been an internationally recognized destination for news, fashion and beauty trends, investigative packages, and more. When it comes to the products Marie Claire recommends, we take your faith in us seriously. Every product that we feature comes personally recommended by a Marie Claire writer or editor, or by an expert we’ve spoken to firsthand.
]]>The morning after the video dropped, Cardi's longtime nail tech, Coca Michelle, took to her Instagram Story to share a handful of behind-the-scenes videos and close-up photos of several of the manicures that the rapper wore in the video. One of the looks featured short, square-shaped nails that were painted with a black base and had emerald-cut gems glued to the top.
In another slide, Michelle shared a collage of two other nail looks. One was a medium-length almond manicure with a black base and white polka dots that were accented with what appears to be the Chanel logo. Another featured a photo of long, black stiletto nails with two curved white lines drawn across the middle of each nail. Judging by the photo, it's safe to assume that most of the looks were pre-painted by Michelle onto a set of tips before being applied when it was time to shoot.
But, of course, that's not where things stop. In another slide, Cardi is seen wearing a long, oval look that features teal nail polish with "melted gold" borders. The melted gold looks like it was achieved with 3D gel that was applied to the borders of the nails before they were either painted with a metallic gold polish or dipped in gold chrome powder. Either way, it looks both stunning and expensive.
Michelle shared a handful of other behind-the-scenes pics from the video, and to my surprise, some of the looks shown were outfits and glam that Cardi happened to also be wearing during her many appearances at Paris Couture Week last month.
Let's face it, Cardi B's nail looks will always be one-of-a-kind, but if you want to achieve at least somewhat similar that you can wear at home, shop a few must-haves ahead.
Her latest look consisted of a high ponytail, the ends of which swished elegantly behind her as she tackled the streets of New York City. The front of her hair was slicked back, and a deep side part gave her a perfect face-framing bang. The entire look was flyaway-free, so I presume that some styling stick was used to finish the look off.
Ponytails, like quite a few updos, are one of the workhorse styles of the hair world. Everything from the positioning of the pony to the texture of your hair when it’s in the updo can signal a completely different vibe. Its versatility is what makes it such a beloved classic, and Carthen isn’t the only celebrity who’s been loving the look. Tracee Ellis Ross has been spotted in both a blunt and cornrowed version of the hairstyle over the past few months. Regina King wore an elegant, braided version just 24 hours ago. Even Anne Hathaway wore a version inspired by AI a few months back.
As someone who didn’t get the “ability to do my hair” gene, I can attest that perfecting your ponytail skills not only takes patience and practice, but the right tools to make the process as seamless as possible. Keep reading for the tools and formulas that I recommend to get the ponytail that you deserve.
I'm a big fan of a multi-brush approach when it comes to ponytails. The first step should be detangling, like this one.
The second should be a "styling" brush, like this one, to help slick the style back, if that's the look you're going for.
Olandria's bang had a slight bump, so you can achieve a similar look with a curling iron like this one from Chi.
The front of the ponytail was super slick, so I presume some hair gel was used to achieve the look.
For even more sleekness and added flyaway protection, use a styling stick.
In case you're unfamiliar with the term, underpainting is the process of contouring and highlighting your features before applying foundation, instead of the other way around. While by no means new, celebrity makeup artist Mary Phillips is synonymous with the phrase thanks to hundreds of viral videos testing the "Mary Philips underpainting technique." She's also been open about using underpainting on her A-list clients like Hailey Bieber and Kendall Jenner. With so much online attention, releasing a makeup brand with underpainting as the basis felt like a natural next step.
Enter: M.ph, Phillips' just-launched makeup line designed to enhance, sculpt, and define. Starting off, the brand includes the Lip Ciggy hydrating lipstick Balm, The Overliner lip pencil, and the star of the show, the Underpainting Face Palette, which comes in shades Light, Medium, and Dark (with more shades to come). The line also includes a brush—the Underpainting Dual-Ended Sculpting Brush—to seamlessly blend the shades together.
With all the tools needed to carve and sculpt, I was more than curious to see if M.ph could help me achieve the chiseled features of my dreams. The rest of the Marie Claire beauty team was just as intrigued, too. The general consensus after testing the line ourselves? Underpainting is the move.
Read on for Marie Claire's honest review of Mary Phillips' M.ph and to shop the line for yourself.
Editors’ Honest M.ph Reviews
Brooke Knappenberger, Associate Commerce Editor
As I mentioned before, I don't tend to switch up my makeup, so I was a tad anxious to see how my basic application skills would fare with the Underpainting Palette. As the brand suggests, I applied a dab of color corrector (the first pan on the Underpainting Palette) directly to my undereyes using the small side of the dual-ended brush. Then, I swiped the first contour shade to the peaks of my cheekbones, temples, forehead, jawline, and sides of my nose. Lastly, I used the first highlighter shade even further under my eyes, under my cheekbones, and across my forehead. To top off my complexion, I lightly applied a layer of tinted sunscreen (my current favorite is Beauty of Joseon) all over the underpainting.
The results weren't quite as dramatic as I was hoping, but admittedly, I chalk that up to user error. I was a bit too light-handed applying my contour, so my sculpted cheekbones became more subdued after I applied my tinted sunscreen. However, it was nothing a little top-off couldn't fix. What impressed me most about the Underpainting Palette was its ultra-creamy formula. Every shade blended like a dream and could be built up easily, which are must-haves for underpainting novices like myself.
I also got the chance to try both M.ph lip products, and day I say, I may have found my new favorite lip liner in The Overliner. The pencil packs a punch of pigment, so I didn't need much work to line my lips. Its texture isn't too creamy or too stiff, so I was able to blend out the liner into a lasting plumper pout. The Lip Ciggy, which comes in the cutest pocket-size bullet, has a delectable formula, too, with a hydrating feel and a buildable, sheer wash of color.
Hannah Baxter, Beauty Director
Truth time: I rarely wear foundation. Chalk it up to laziness, a commitment to my skincare routine, or my love of a quick and easy skin tint, but it made me a little hesitant to jump into the underpainting pool. Still, when presented with the opportunity to look like Mary Phillips did my makeup? I was bursting at the seams to get my hands on this palette. Truth be told, it was the dual-ended brush that earned the first squeal, but the ultra creamy formula did impress me just as much after the first swipe. The color-corrector shade was ideal for my skin tone to erase any evidence of dark circles (courtesy of a rather sleepless night in my too-hot apartment) but the highlighter shade didn't quite deliver the level of dewy glowy I crave in this type of product. I understand the method with underpainting, but for my personal cosmetics aesthetic, it wasn't really my cup of tea. The contour though? My cheekbones could definitely cut glass after painting that onto the hollows of my face. I'm not skilled enough to use it around my nose or jawline but if that's your jam, this would probably be a new go-to product for you.
Samantha Holender, Senior Beauty Editor
I'll be honest: after the underpainting craze passed last year, I stopped doing my makeup in reverse. But this gorgeous palette reminded me just how much I love the technique. The contour shades are so creamy and blend seamlessly. I just put a little Charlotte Tilbury Flawless Filter on top and it diffuses everything perfectly—no harsh lines or weird, blotchy gradients. And a special shoutout to the m.ph brush, which is quite literally my new favorite item—ever.
Siena Gagliano, Beauty Editor
I love a fuller-coverage base, but my trick is keeping it looking natural with lightweight layers. Underpainting didn’t seem like my thing—until Mary Phillips, the queen of makeup, launched her line. I couldn’t resist. I tried the light palette since my vacation tan is fading (I usually go medium in summer). The shades are insanely creamy and blendable, and a little goes a long way. I layered concealer first, then the cream before my skin tint. For cheekbones, I used the second-darkest shade with a hint of gray, and the darkest warm shade around the face perimeter for a subtle bronze. She nailed it. I’m picky about contour, and this formula hits every note.
Danielle Jackson, Senior Beauty Writer
Contouring and underpainting are two makeup techniques that I've never quite taken the time to learn, since the thought of doing both has always intimidated me. I can appreciate the fact that this palette makes it pretty simple for beginners to at least try their hand at it. I applied one of the highlight shades under my eyes, and I think it did a stellar job of concealing the redness under there. I also love the consistency—the creams are so soft, and while I do feel like the product glides on and blends pretty well, I never felt like I was applying too much since it's still easy to control how much you want to put on at once. The dual-sided brush is also so helpful to have.
Ariel Baker, Beauty Writer
Underpainting scares me, but when Mary Phillips comes out with a brand dedicated to the practice, I simply had to try it out. I love everything about the packaging of the product and the accompanying brush. They’re both super sleek and easy to store, perfect for someone who, candidly, has a lot of stuff. That being said, I’ve run into the same issue that I have with most brands when it comes to complexion products: the deep palette is too deep, but the medium is too light, so I had to use this palette more like a foundation and bronzer palette, which I actually didn’t mind. That being said, Phillips has mentioned that additional shades of the palette are on the way, so I’ll likely pick up one of those to really give underpainting a go.
Shop the Rest of M.ph
Why Trust Marie Claire
For more than 30 years, Marie Claire has been an internationally recognized destination for news, fashion and beauty trends, investigative packages, and more. When it comes to the products Marie Claire recommends, we take your faith in us seriously. Every product that we feature comes personally recommended by a Marie Claire writer or editor, or by an expert we’ve spoken to firsthand.
]]>Ross’s hair was blow-dried but not straightened, which is important to note considering how much volume the style maintained. Loose curls were then added, giving the look extra bounce that felt so glamorous, especially when contrasted with the more masculine suit. A deep side part added bangs to the look, which made it even more flirty and chic.
Ross has never been one to shy away from experimenting with her hairstyles, especially as the owner of her own hair-care brand, Pattern Beauty. She’s been seen with everything from a blunt ponytail to cornrows. She's even managed to blend her love of beauty and fashion after being spotted in a hairstyle that features netted accessories, a perfect take on the fisherman aesthetic currently sweeping street style outfits all over the world.
I love a bouncy blowout moment, especially when I can wear my hair in its natural state during the process. The look is super easy to achieve at home, so keep reading for the tools and products you should pick up if you want to recreate it.
My hair tends to be a bit dry, so I usually do an afro hairstyle right after wash day, when I've used all my hydrating conditioners and treatments.
A traditional hair dryer and round brush can give you a similar look to Ross's.
Round brushes like this one also work as a two-in-one for an easy blowout.
Heat protectant is a must when using any heat styling tool to prevent damage and breakage, especially on textured hair.
For slightly tighter curls, opt for a curling iron like this one and work in small sections.
On Aug. 14, Blunt was spotted on set in New York City wearing a red and black striped, Coach sweater with a black miniskirt and sheer tights. While her outfit was a whole look, for obvious reasons, I couldn't take my eyes off of her icy blonde lob, which she paired with cherry red nails and bright red lipstick. Upon first glance, I assumed she was wearing a very realistic-looking wig with dark roots to make it appear more natural, but after looking a little closer, I'm convinced that Blunt may have fully committed to the character and made a full switch to blonde hair for the movie.
Blunt's hair has undergone quite the transformation over the last few weeks. Before stepping out with her copper red hair back in July, her hair was a much darker brunette color. To say that her new platinum blonde color is unexpected is an understatement, but not only does she pull it off really well, it's making me so much more excited to see the film when it officially premieres next year.
If you're taking this as a sign to follow in Blunt's footsteps and also try out a shade of blonde, your best bet is to have your hair lightened or bleached by a professional, but the maintenance should be easy enough for you to handle at home. Read ahead to shop some blonde hair must-haves.
Whether your hair is blonde all over or you're just maintaining some fresh highlights, this color-enhancing shampoo will help you prevent (and get rid of) brassiness.
Redken's lineup of color-care products is pretty next-level, and this purple shampoo is a fan favorite since it removes brassiness while still keeping your blonde looking fresh and bright.
Moisturizing hyaluronic acid is the star ingredient of this conditioner, which hydrates bleached, colored, and lightened hair while also addressing damage and split ends.
For hair that's a bit worn down by bleach and chemicals, this bonding treatment helps to strengthen your strands from the inside out with a special, patented peptide technology.
For any hair that's frequently altered by chemicals, a deep conditioner or mask is a must for your regimen. This one has amazing slip, and the creamy texture will hydrate your hair and leave it feeling super soft.
"When you sleep, your skin goes into repair mode," says board-certified dermatologist Connie Yang, MD. Processes like cellular turnover, collagen production, and DNA repair go into hyper speed. It makes sense: At night, you're not fighting off UV rays and environmental aggressors. The skin gets hours to breathe and absorb all the good stuff without interruption. The 'good stuff' in question? "Reparative actives like retinoids, peptides, ceramides, and growth factors," says Dr. Yang.
And while all of this sounds great, the trick is choosing the right night cream formula. Some provide hydration while others focus on building collagen for firm, youthful-looking skin, and most have a heavier texture that acts as a seal to lock in moisture. So, to make it easier, I consulted a few board-certified dermatologists to share their top moisturizer picks for every skin type. Ahead, the best night creams to boost skin radiance while you sleep peacefully.
The Best Night Creams
- Best Overall Night Cream: Estée Lauder Advanced Night Repair Overnight Treatment
- Best Night Cream for Sensitive Skin: Avène Cicalfate+ Restorative Protective Cream
- Best Firming Night Cream: Naturium Multi-Peptide Rich Cream
- Best Reparative Night Cream: La Mer The Night Recovery Concentrate Treatment
- Best Moisturizing Night Cream: Dr. Barbara Sturm Face Cream Rich
This nighttime reparative moisturizer pulls its weight. It combines three powerful effects: hydrates with plumping humectants, strengthens and soothes the skin barrier, and delivers cell-signaling peptides to boost collagen production for a firmer, smoother complexion. And unlike most night creams, it has a silky texture that doesn't feel suffocating—instead it soaks in upon contact and you'll wake up to soft, not greasy, skin.
Key Ingredients: Hyaluronic acid, polyglutamic acid (hydrates); Peptides (boosts collagen); Shea butter (moisturizes)
What I Love: Lighter texture and consistency that's almost like second-skin; Does the job of a moisturizer and a serum
What I Don't: Doesn't come with an applicator spatula, which can be unsanitary
Review for MC: "Beauty Director Hannah Baxter praises the corresponding serum from the same line, so I knew this formulation had merit. When I applied it, it felt incredibly silky, a big change from other heavy night creams, and blended like butter. I woke up with skin that was so healthy-looking and supple, I was blown away." — Siena Gagliano, Beauty Editor
You've likely heard from any of your beauty-obsessed friends that this is the crème de la crème of moisturizers. It works for any skin type, any time of day, and soothes the complexion while supporting overall skin health. (Not to mention, it also won the Best Overall Moisturizer in Marie Claire's Skin and Hair Awards.) Especially ideal for sensitive and reactive-prone skin, it's not only accepted by the National Eczema Association but also features the brand's proprietary thermal water and protein-rich postbiotics to restore a damaged barrier and lock in moisture.
Key Ingredients: Thermal spring water (soothes); Glycerin (hydrates); Amino acids (boosts skin barrier)
What I Love: Can calm itchiness and redness; Safe for any skin type; Can be used anywhere on the body that's irritated
What I Don't: Super thick texture that takes a minute to rub in before the white cast is blended in
Review for MC: "There are very few skincare products that I keep in my everyday rotation, which is saying a lot considering I'm a beauty editor who tests every new launch and trending product. This one is a staple that never leaves my shelf, and it's my do-it-all cream that feels ultra-luxe and I can always count on. There's a reason it's a holy grail in the beauty community."— Siena Gagliano, Beauty Editor
For just $25, you can get a luxury ingredient formulation that's comparable in price to a drugstore cream (at least these days). Naturium's latest moisturizer contains a slew of peptides that act as tiny messengers, signaling the skin to amp up collagen production, defend the skin barrier, and even heal wounds. The result? Smoother, firmer, more elastic skin with a youthful glow upon waking.
Key Ingredients: Palmitoyl pentapeptide-4, copper tripeptide-1 (boosts collagen); Glycerin (hydrates); Ferulic acid (protects with antioxidants)
What I Love: Affordable price tag with a luxury formulation; Targets aging, dry, and sensitive skin
What I Don't: Can be used in the morning per the directions, but may be too heavy
Review for MC: "My face gets really dry after I wash it at night, so this is something that I like to use as the last step in my skincare routine before bed. It's really thick and has kind of a balm consistency that you have to work into your skin, so I would say this is ideal for anyone who frequently struggles with dryness or dry patches. Also, for it to be a product that you can find in a drugstore, it feels pretty expensive and comes in really nice packaging. I'd say that my only gripe with it is that, because of its thickness, it doesn't glide or spread on your skin as easily as you might expect a moisturizer to (that's why it's called a "rich" cream), and if you're someone whose skin can get a little oily at times (like me) you may struggle with it feeling heavy or greasy on your skin." — Danielle Jackson, Senior Beauty Writer
La Mer sits pretty on your favorite celebrities' vanities, complete with a hefty price tag that makes you wonder if it's all just fancy packaging and hype. I hate to break it to you—it's worth every penny. In fact, it's one of the only moisturizers that healed my skin after retinol-induced irritation. The luxurious formula is especially ideal for calming and repairing skin after dermatologist treatments like facials, microneedling, or lasers.
Key Ingredients: Miracle Broth (brand's proprietary complex); Antioxidants (protects from environmental aggressors); Glycerin (hydrates); Probiotics (soothes)
What I Love: Time-released actives for prolonged effectiveness while you sleep; Soothes redness
What I Don't: Most expensive option on this list
Review for MC: "I've always loved La Mer's signature Crème de la Mer, I mean, how could you not? But after hearing the industry hype, I knew I had to try this treatment, and it did not disappoint. With its potent actives and delivery system, it's more of a treatment than a cream. It's pure magic, and I use it every time after a facial treatment at my dermatologist's office or whenever I increase my retinol strength." — Siena Gagliano, Beauty Editor
There's a reason every beauty girlie is posting pictures of Barbara Sturm products lined up in their bathrooms—they just work. Fun fact: Dr. Sturm is trained in anti-inflammatory medicine and takes a scientific approach to her skincare line. This means that her formulations are rooted in facts and research. Take this cream, for example: it contains ingredients that support skin renewal at a deep, cellular level, while its rich texture and hydrators deliver visible, immediate results on the surface.
Key Ingredients: Urea, panthenol (soothes); Glycerin (hydrates); Antioxidants (protects from environmental aggressors)
What I Love: Comes in weights for different skin types; Works to strengthen sensitive skin; Fragrance-free
What I Don't: A little goes a long way; however, I still run through it pretty quickly; pricey
Review for MC: "I have rosacea, dermatitis, and just generally sensitive, dry skin. I've tried a lot of moisturizers over the past decade as a beauty editor, but this is my holy grail. When I'm using it religiously, my skin behaves, my redness vanishes, and I adopt a glowy, hydrated finish that no serum or facial has ever been able to accomplish. If you know me, you know I think this is magic in a jar—I recommend it to everyone." — Samantha Holender, Senior Beauty Editor
French beauty never misses—and nothing proves that more than the iconic Embryolisse Lait-Crème Concentré. It combines dozens of products in one; my favorite nighttime uses include the essential moisture cream, a sleep mask, a makeup remover, and an aftershave soother. It's also made with moisturizing fatty acids to boost elasticity and create firmer skin. I'll call that a win, no?
Key Ingredients: Aloe vera (soothes); Fatty acids (boosts skin barrier)
What I Love: Can also be used as a makeup primer in the AM; A true multi-hyphenate; Lovely texture
What I Don't: Contains fragrance, which may irritate sensitive skin types
Customer Review: "I’ve used many different moisturisers but always come back to this one. It leaves skin looking healthy and plumped, providing the perfect makeup base. It also doubles as a hydrating mask and a cleanser, so it's perfect for travelling." — Dermstore
I've learned that if there's anyone's skincare routine worth emulating, it's a dermatologist's—obviously. This gem of a cream lives in the bathroom cabinet of board-certified dermatologist and cosmetic surgeon, Melanie Palm, MD. It delivers a powerhouse combo of actives: "proteins, peptides, growth factors, and exosomes to help with cellular repair, renewal, and provide a more youthful appearance to the skin," says Dr. Palm. In short, it's basically the secret to a flawless, plump, glowing complexion.
Key Ingredients: Proteins (boosts skin barrier); Peptides (boosts collagen); Growth factors (cell renewal); Niacinamide (improves skin tone and texture)
What I Love: Targets dark spots and aging marks; Protects against future damage with antioxidants
What I Don't: Not available on mass retailers
Customer Review: "I thought I was using an effective home care regimen, and then discovered INVO Aesthetics Rejuvenating Complex. It has been a game-changer for my aging skin! I noticed quickly that my skin looked and felt firmer, more hydrated, smoother, and had an overall glow to it! The clinical strength ingredients really have made a difference, very happy with the results!" — INVO
Those with oily and acne-prone skin might shy away from heavy night creams, worried they could clog pores or trigger breakouts. This one, however, tackles dead skin buildup and grime that contribute to breakouts with its chemical exfoliants. "The combination of retinol and PHA helps encourage skin turnover and gentle exfoliation while combating blemishes," says Dr. Yang. The result: smoother skin that slows signs of aging while keeping breakouts at bay.
Key Ingredients: Retinol (smoothes fine lines); PHA (chemically exfoliates); Hyaluronic acid (hydrates); Vitamin E (protects from environmental aggressors); Squalane (seals in moisture)
What I Love: Hydrating ingredients mitigate dryness from the chemical exfoliants and retinol; PHAs are the gentler cousins to AHAs/BHAs; Great mess-free, sanitary pump design
What I Don't: May need to incorporate it into routine slowly over time
Customer Review: "I have post-acne skin with some scarring and discoloration, so I’m always on the lookout for the perfect retinol—many are just too harsh. This one, though, is gentle yet effective. I really like the container—it’s easy to use and keeps things mess-free. The cream itself is super light, which I love, and it absorbs quickly without any sticky or heavy feeling. My skin feels smoother and more balanced with each use. OBAGI did it again!" — Dermstore
If you want the very definition of glass skin, any of U Beauty's products will deliver. This barrier-boosting overnight treatment, in particular, has transformed my complexion with its brightening and lifting powers. I wake up with skin that looks deeply hydrated and a glow that screams not eight, but a full 10 hours of sleep. The ingredients behind the magic? Exfoliating urea and fruit acids, plus peptides and antioxidants for supple, soft-looking skin.
Key Ingredients: Urea, fruit acids (exfoliates); Peptides (boosts collagen); Antioxidants (protects from environmental aggressors)
What I Love: Great for all skin types; Only needs to be used a few times per week; Creates plump and bright skin
What I Don't: Some testers noted that it transfers to their pillow
Customer Review: "I love how moisturizing this product is, will use it for the rest of my life. I’m 60 and my skin looks so fresh and dewy." — U Beauty
There are countless retinols on the market, each promising a return to youthful skin. It's hard to discern between marketing fluff and facts, but this one comes with a dermatologist's backing—Dr. Palm even uses it as a staple in her own routine and highly recommends it for mature skin. The secret? Its encapsulated retinol is paired alongside bakuchiol, one of the only retinol alternatives scientifically shown to deliver similar results. "This results in an increased tolerance of the retinol and a reduced amount of redness, dryness, and irritation," she says.
Key Ingredients: Retinol, bakuchiol (smooths fine lines); Vitamin C (brightens)
What I Love: Time-release retinol improves efficacy and reduces irritation; The brand provides different retinol strengths tailored to each stage of your retinol routine
What I Don't: Not a face cream texture, more of a serum that you combine with face creams
Customer Review: "I have been using this product for the last 2 years after seeing results almost instantly after my first use. Revision is my favorite brand of skincare ever. And this product is hands down my favorite. Not only does it erase my fine lines, but it also clears up breakouts while leaving my skin smooth and tight. An absolute staple in my skincare routine." — Dermstore
Is it pretty? Not really. Would I want it in my bathroom vanity solo-shot? Absolutely not. But does it work better than some of the most expensive moisturizers out there? Without a doubt. Behind its unassuming packaging is a powerhouse formula: ceramides that strengthen the skin's barrier and lock in moisture, hyaluronic acid for plumping hydration, and the National Eczema Association seal for gentle, irritation-free use. It deserves more hype—it's that good.
Key Ingredients: Hyaluronic acid (hydrates); Ceramides (boosts skin barrier)
What I Love: Most affordable option on this list; Lightweight, silky texture that packs major moisture without the heaviness; Can be worn at all times of the day
What I Don't: Unassuming packaging
Customer Review: "This moisturizer has good, clean ingredients that leave my skin feeling hydrated and soft. It's definitely nothing fancy or trendy, but IT WORKS BEAUTIFULLY!" — Ulta
Does Night Cream Really Work?
Yes, night creams work beautifully to achieve healthy, glowy skin. "There are many processes that become more active during sleep, including cell turnover, DNA repair, collagen synthesis, and barrier recovery," says Dr. Yang. While our minds rest, our bodies are in overdrive—preparing us for the next day and targeting skin repair.
Dr. Palm notes that studies suggest keratinocytes, or skin cells, "regenerate at a more rapid pace during nighttime sleep due to human growth hormone (HGH) levels naturally increasing at night." She also points out that melatonin, the hormone that regulates sleep, is elevated at night and is believed to play a role in skin repair.
What’s the Difference Between a Night Cream and Day Cream?
The difference between a day moisturizer and a night cream is usually the consistency of the product and whether it protects you from the sun. Most AM moisturizers provide both hydration benefits and sunscreen to block UV rays.
“Generally speaking, but not as a complete rule, morning moisturizers tend to be lighter in consistency,” says Dr. Zeichner. “The skin undergoes daily circadian rhythms, where specific activities occur in the morning and others at night. We know that skin hydration levels start to decline in the afternoon and into the evening, which is why an evening moisturizer is important. These products tend to be thicker in consistency to address the dryness of the skin in the evening.”
How to Find the Best Night Cream
- Ingredients
Night creams typically contain three components: occlusives, humectants, and emollients. “Occlusives are ingredients (think: petrolatum or dimethicone) which form a protective seal over the skin to prevent water loss,'' says Dr. Zeichner.
“Humectants, like glycerin and hyaluronic acid, act like sponges and grab onto water to hydrate the other skin layer. Emollients are ingredients that soften rough cells on the skin surface and fill in cracks. Common emollients used in skin care products are natural oils and fatty alcohols.”
- Skin Type
"The types of ingredients you should look for in a night cream should be contingent on your skincare needs," says Dr. Palm. Here, she breaks them down by skin type.
Dry: Dry skin benefits from hyaluronic acid, peptides, ceramides, and glycerin, all of which provide hydration and support a healthy skin barrier.
Sensitive and Irritated: Look for creams with anti-inflammatory ingredients, like niacinamide or Matrixyl 3000 (a trademarked peptide). Formulas containing centella asiatica can soothe and repair sensitive skin. Avoid products with fragrance, alcohol, sulfates, or known allergens.
Mature: Night creams with retinol—a vitamin A derivative proven to accelerate skin turnover—paired with humectants like hyaluronic acid and ceramides, help retain moisture and support firmer, smoother skin.
Oily & Acne-Prone: Lighter formulations with salicylic acid help prevent breakouts, while niacinamide calms redness and irritation without clogging pores.
Why Trust Marie Claire?
For more than 30 years, Marie Claire has been an internationally recognized destination for news, fashion, and beauty trends, investigative packages, and more. When it comes to the products Marie Claire recommends, we take your faith in us seriously. Every product that we feature comes personally recommended by a Marie Claire writer or editor, or by an expert we’ve spoken to firsthand.
How We Tested
Marie Claire Beauty Editor, Siena Gagliano, along with other beauty editors and writers, went through a vigorous testing period where they reviewed dozens of night creams. After determining the top picks alongside dermatologists and skincare experts, they tested each cream overnight over a series of multiple days.
Meet The Experts
]]>There are many reasons why fans of K-Beauty love the products that make their way here. Not only are they on the cutting edge of beauty science with textures that feel better on the skin (if you’ve ever used a Korean SPF, you know exactly what I’m talking about), but they are usually much cheaper than products available in the U.S. That’s because K-beauty ingredients and manufacturing tend to be locally sourced and competitive, which is able to keep prices affordable and quality high.
It’s helped fuel a second wave of K-Beauty in the U.S. as American consumers clamor for more. According to statistics compiled by the U.S. International Trade Commission, an independent federal agency, the U.S. imported $1.7 billion worth of cosmetics and personal care from South Korea in 2024, a 54 percent increase from the year prior. It’s no wonder Ulta has made a big bet on K-Beauty, bringing in a host of popular brands this summer as part of their partnership with online retailer K-Beauty World, and Olive Young (basically the Korean version of Sephora) is rumored to be opening a U.S. store sometime next year.
But, just as K-Beauty’s momentum has started to build to a fever pitch, it seems the federal government has decided the party is over. While you’ve probably been inundated with news of the new 15 percent tariff rate for South Korea that locked into place on August 7, you haven’t felt the squeeze yet. That’s because there is currently a policy called a de minimis tariff exemption. It means that any imported goods under the value of $800 coming into the U.S. are exempt from tariff duties. Retailers, who order in bulk to sell in store, are the ones who have been stung the most by tariffs—some are passing the increased prices on to consumers and some still have not made any price hikes. But, if you, like many K-Beauty stans, placed orders from legit Asian beauty e-tailers like YesStyle, Stylevana, or Olive Young to be shipped into the U.S. and you didn’t go absolutely HAM and buy over $800 worth of goods, you weren’t going to be affected by those tariffs that everyone has been freaking out about. Until now.
The Next Phase of Federal Regulations
On July 31, President Trump signed an executive order ending the de minimis exemption. The reasoning, according to the official statement by Homeland Security, was with the de minimis exemption, “countries exploited this system to flood the American market with cheap goods that undercut American manufacturers and cost American jobs.” Ok, show me an American beauty company that can create a PDRN collagen mask of the same quality and efficacy at the same price point as a Korean brand and I will happily give them my money. Unfortunately, in my 20+ years as a beauty reporter, I have yet to see it. Hope springs eternal.
What this means for you, is that starting on August 29, all packages entering the U.S. from Korea, no matter the value of the goods inside, are said to be charged either that 15 percent tariff rate or a flat sum between $80 to $200 per item, according to recent reports. Exact pricing is said to be determined by the contents of the package and after six months everything will shift to that 15 percent tariff rate. This goes for any products coming in from other countries, so if you’re a fan of French pharmacy buys or Japanese denim, the duty rates apply on those imports as well. No item is safe from the de minimis exception ending. The administration has said that products coming in via foreign travel are not subject to this order, so if you travel abroad and bring home some duty-free souvenirs, they apparently will remain duty- and tariff-free. So, there’s that, I guess.
Starting on August 29, all packages entering the U.S. from Korea are said to be charged either a 15 percent tariff rate or a flat sum between $80 to $200 per item.
It’s also unclear who exactly will be paying these fees — I reached out to a K-Beauty retailer for comment but they were rightfully hesitant to go on the record about the end of the exemption and how it will affect them and their customers. The big question as August 29 looms is if Korean retailers that ship to the US are going to eat these massive tariff rates, if the customer is going to now be responsible for them, or if prices will rise to offset what retailers will now have to pay. There is a lot of confusion and not a lot of solid answers because no one knows what to expect.
How the FDA Is Impacting Foreign Beauty Imports
If that wasn’t bad enough, the FDA has decided to get in on the fun with the announcement on August 4 of a new Nationalized Entry Review Program (NER). Touted as a new system by which the FDA can “identify and interdict dangerous products more quickly,” the system is meant to “explore automation opportunities” and move the FDA away from a port-by-port system of finding and identifying high-risk products that they deem should not be in the U.S.
This all sounds fine and dandy until you remember that one of those “dangerous” products is sunscreen. Yes, that’s right, any SPF that is not FDA-approved, i.e. those lovely sheer and silky filters from Korea—and Japan, all of the European ones, and even Australia—are not legal to be sold in the U.S. because they do not contain filters that the FDA have approved.
This is because the FDA considers sunscreen a drug, while the rest of the world classifies it as a cosmetic. It’s one of the many reasons why we haven’t approved a new chemical filter since the '90s. I could write you a dissertation on this topic, but suffice to say, that, as someone who recently returned from a fact-finding trip in Seoul and has tried a smorgasbord of internationally accredited sunscreens, there’s no comparison—dermatologists always say the best SPF is the one you will use, and non-U.S. sunscreens are the easiest and most enjoyable to wear on your skin for many.
The FDA doesn’t seem to be as big a fan of Korean SPF. When asked for comment on the NER program and if sunscreen was considered one of the dangerous and high-risk products mentioned in the program’s announcement, a spokesperson for the Department of Health and Human Services responded, “Many currently marketed and widely available sunscreen products in the U.S. provide excellent broad-spectrum coverage and are effective in preventing sunburn and reducing the risk of skin cancer and early skin aging caused by the sun, when used as directed with other sun protection measures. The fact that sunscreen ingredients are available in other countries does not mean that the important safety questions about these ingredients are well understood, or that they provide greater efficacy or safety than sunscreens lawfully sold in the U.S. In many other countries, sunscreens are regulated differently and may not be required to have the data that FDA, and other experts, consider necessary to fully evaluate the safety of sunscreen ingredients.”
Anyone who continues to order from Asian retailers and ship to the U.S. may face the risk of their products being confiscated.
Well, to borrow a phrase from Stephen Colbert, there’s some truthiness to that. Sunscreens are regulated differently in other countries and don’t require the same data as the FDA does. For one, they don’t require animal testing, which the FDA requires for any new filters that are introduced into the market. While there are no comparative studies that say definitively that international SPFs are more effective than those found in the U.S., there is no clinical evidence saying that those SPFs are unsafe or ineffective. Some dermatologists believe that access to more ingredients allow international brands to provide higher efficacy—because U.S. sunscreens are so limited, they often have to combine or have additional ingredients added to the formula in order to provide the type of broad-spectrum protection that filters like Tinosorb or Mexoryl provide. They also jack up the SPF rating in an effort to make up for the lack of filter variety, which isn’t necessarily providing better protection—just a chalkier, greasier feel.
Is the Age of Buying Korean SPF Over?
Earlier this year, the FDA cracked down on Korean brands that were selling non-FDA compliant SPF in the U.S. (via Amazon, TikTok, and their own U.S. e-commerce sites). Some, like the viral and beloved Beauty of Joseon, chose to reformulate and create FDA-compliant versions with approved filters for the U.S. market. (Hint: If it uses avobenzone, odds are good it’s the U.S. version, as that is an FDA-approved filter. Weirdly enough, there are only two SPF ingredients considered safe and effective by the FDA: titanium dioxide and zinc oxide. All of the previously approved chemical filters still need to provide additional data to the FDA to prove their safety and efficacy. So the FDA has approved chemical filters but doesn’t consider them safe and effective under its new monograph. Yeah, it’s confusing.)
You could still get the original Korean versions via the loophole of heading to Korean e-tailers, however the new NER system looks to be the FDA’s way of closing that loophole. While the FDA did not confirm that sunscreens will be on the list of products targeted in the NER program, they also did not deny it, which leads to the assumption that anyone who continues to order from Asian retailers and ship to the U.S. may face the risk of their products being confiscated by CBP.
It does all sound very doom and gloom, but there are some bright spots—the current interest in K-Beauty means that there are now more brands being sold in U.S. stores than ever before, creating access opportunities that didn’t exist mere months ago. While SPF continues to be the proverbial thorn in every beauty lover’s side, it is a unifying issue that many lawmakers agree needs revision. In June, a bipartisan bill was introduced in the House called the Supporting Accessible, Flexible and Effective (SAFE) Sunscreen Standards Act, which seeks to modernize the FDA’s regulation of over-the-counter sunscreen regulations. Now might be a great time to let your representatives know just how you feel about SPF regulations in the U.S. and show your support for the SAFE Act. And, if you have certain K-Beauty (or any international) faves that aren’t yet available Stateside, now is also an excellent time to stock up before the de minimis exceptions expire on the 29th. You might want to spring for the express shipping, though, just in case…
]]>I've been using this hack for a long time. When I was single and dating, I found that applying a man-eater perfume was a small but super powerful way to set the tone for the evening and get into the right headspace—nerves be damed! And the experts agree: Dating professional Tiffany Baria previously explained to Marie Claire, “Having a signature scent makes it so your potential date or partner remembers you everywhere they go—and it’s a Flirting FastPass to getting them hooked.” Here's how I choose my date night fragrance depending on the vibe I'm going for, because it matters a lot more than you may think.
The Romantic
If the night feels extra flirty—like a dimly lit restaurant or if he's cooking for me—I instinctively reach for something floral. You know, rose, peony, gardenia, anything soft and classic. It just makes me feel pretty and romantic in the most effortless way.
A few years ago, I watched Paloma Elsesser's get ready with me video, and she mentioned that Red Roses was her all-time favorite scent. Because whatever she says must be true, I immediately went to the store to try it. It's the most romantic rose scent I've ever smelled that feels natural and doesn't smell like your grandma.
With a name like that, how can you not wear this floral blend of tuberose, jasmine, and narcissus?
The Bold
Not to say that you can't wear these when you're in a relationship (I certainly do), but when I was in my single dating era, these perfumes were the ones that I'd grab when I wanted to make an impression—a little spice, a little smoke, maybe even a hint of pepper. When I put one of these on, my anxiety disappeared. Even blind dates couldn't affect my nervous system.
Though it's advertised as a men's cologne, I find that it brings an unexpected vibe to date night. It's warm and spicy—tobacco leaf, pink pepper, and rum absolute—and transports me to a speakeasy circa the Harlem Renaissance. It's unforgettable.
You probably know this one, but if not, meet the perfume that became the signature of a confident, powerful woman: YSL Libre.
The Playful
These are my daytime scents, like a picnic in the park, a boozy little brunch, or just a quick coffee when I want to feel awake. To me, playful means citrus. It's light and fresh—think grapefruit, orange, lime—and makes me feel fun.
This pick is sunshine in a bottle. Aptly named, this citrus perfume takes me back to summer drives with the windows rolled down. I wear this scent every time I go on a day date when the weather is gorgeous.
Now that the warm weather is fading into fall, I lean on citrus scents that don't feel like summer. This one features sparkling citrus notes, balanced by a resinous base to keep it grounded.
The Cozy
If my boyfriend and I are staying in or doing something low-key, I go for warm, sweet scents. Vanillas, caramels, and any scent that smells like a dessert fit this category—the gourmands, if you will.
Unlike its bold predecessor, Baccarat Rouge 540, this one is warm, flirty, and smooth—a combination that demands a hug. Musks, fruits, and candies blend together for a delicious profile.
Looking for a vanilla that's sophisticated instead of cloying? The 7 Virtues Vanilla Woods adds depth and complexity to the classic note.
The Effortless
And there are my favorite nights when I don't want him to notice the perfume, at least not right away. That's when I reach for a skin scent. It's subtle, almost like you can't tell if I'm wearing perfume or not, but filled with warmer and muskier notes that mimic the skin's natural smell. It's my secret weapon for when I want him to lean in just a little closer.
This fragrance was formulated around Byredo perfumer Ben Gorham's idea of the color white. It's pure and simple, but it has a side to it that's unexpectedly warm and intimate.
This is my fail-safe skin scent that I reach for almost every day. It's soft, warm, and effortless. Every single time I apply it, my boyfriend asks me what I'm wearing.
Why Trust Marie Claire
For more than 30 years, Marie Claire has been an internationally recognized destination for news, fashion, and beauty trends, investigative packages, and more. When it comes to the products Marie Claire recommends, we take your faith in us seriously. Every product that we feature comes personally recommended by a Marie Claire writer or editor, or by an expert we’ve spoken to firsthand.
]]>Kardashian shared a series of photos to Instagram on Aug. 13 in which she's seen wearing an all-black bodysuit with a plunging neckline. In the first pic, my attention went straight to her nails, which looked like they were filed into an almond shape and painted with a flesh-toned base color and white tips that took up nearly half the real estate of her nail bed. The thick, white tip is a signature feature of the '90s French manicure, and just looking at her nails is taking me back in time.
Kardashian's manicure looks almost identical to the one Kylie Jenner wore earlier this month, which her nail tech, Zola Ganzorigt, called the "deep '90s French" in an Instagram post. Jenner's nails were more of an oval shape, and the tip looked only slightly thicker than Kardashian's, but since Ganzorigt frequently works on both of their nails, I wouldn't be surprised if the sisters were intent on getting matching manicures.
The French manicure will always be a classic design, and it's also a really easy way to upgrade a simple manicure if you want a design that's not too dramatic. Shop some French manicure must-haves ahead to recreate the look.
Alto Astral is the newest fragrance to launch from the brand, and it's a sweet, gourmand scent that's a tribute to the culture of Brazil. "Alto Astral is that moment when your energy shifts and everything feels light and full of possibility," Byredo's longtime perfumer, Jérôme Epinette, tells Marie Claire. It features top notes of coconut (hence the imagery), which Epinette hopes will convey a sense of optimism and joy.
In need of a new go-to scent, I spent a few days testing out Byredo's new launch. Read ahead to get my unfiltered thoughts it.
The Fragrance
Alto Astral is a gourmand scent that features notes of coconut water, aldehydes, jasmine, sandalwood, cashmere, and salted amber. "Everything about this fragrance was very intentional," Epinette says. "I had a clear vision from the start. I knew that notes like coconut water, milky musks, and cashmere woods would work in harmony to tell this solar story."
Per Epinette, the fragrance is meant to capture the energy of Brazilian culture, and he was inspired to create it after spending time in the country. "Having traveled there and spent time immersed in its vibrant culture, I was truly inspired by the optimism and energy that pulse through everyday life," he says. "I wanted the scent to capture that unique blend of warmth and vitality that’s so deeply rooted in Brazilian culture."
Of all the notes featured in the perfume, the coconut water is probably the one that's most prominent in my opinion, but the scent itself isn't overpowering. It's also really warm and musky without leaning too far on the masculine side, which I can really appreciate.
The Application
On my first day wearing this, I'll admit that I wasn't super generous with the application—trying out new fragrances makes me a little nervous sometimes, so I try to be a little conservative with how much I apply in case I end up not liking it. As you can imagine, that caused the scent to not linger for as long as I would've preferred it to.
The next day, I got a bit more liberal with it, first adding a few spritzes to my neck right after getting dressed, and then working my way down, spraying the insides of my wrists and my legs. Then, I waited for it to dry down on its own, as opposed to rubbing it in and potentially breaking down the fragrance.
The Wear
After spraying the fragrance on at around 8:30 this morning, I noticed that I could smell myself during my entire walk to the train station. That said, by midday, I could still faintly smell it on myself, though I definitely felt like the scent had worn off a bit—a potential sign that I wasn't quite as generous with the application as I could've been.
The scent is great, but it's one that you may have to reapply during the day if you have evening plans.
The Takeaway
I was nervous about this scent being a bit to masculine for me at first, but after trying it, I was impressed by how versatile it is. It's a gourmand scent, but it doesn't lean too far on the sweet side, and while you can immediately get a whiff of the coconut water in as little as one spritz, the notes aren't overpowering.
So would I wear this again? Definitely! I can appreciate that it doesn't fit strictly into the box of being a summer or fall scent and is something you can wear year round. It's one that I'll 100 percent be adding to my collection.
Why Trust Marie Claire
For more than 30 years, Marie Claire has been an internationally recognized destination for news, fashion and beauty trends, investigative packages, and more. When it comes to the products Marie Claire recommends, we take your faith in us seriously. Every product that we feature comes personally recommended by a Marie Claire writer or editor, or by an expert we’ve spoken to firsthand.
]]>Swift sat beside her partner, sporting her signature bangs and wavy hairstyle along with cat-eyed winged liner. Her classic bold red lip color (rumored to be Pat McGrath’s Elson 4 lipstick) was gone, replaced by a muted orange shade that matched perfectly with her blush.
Swift and her camp are notorious for keeping almost every detail of her life private, including some of her most loved and used products, forcing fans to become pseudo sleuths in an effort to find out more. This is exactly why many believe the lipstick she wore for the podcast is NARS Cosmetics in Morocco. It’s a shade Swift has worn before, as confirmed by an Instagram story posted by her longtime makeup artist, Lorrie Turk, back in 2024. While no one from Swift’s team has confirmed if this is the exact shade she wore in the podcast appearance, it looks very similar.
Orange lipstick, like red, comes in a variety of shades and formulas. So, if you're looking to embrace your own showgirl era, you might want to start swatching. Thankfully, I’ve been an orange lipstick lover for years, so I feel uniquely qualified to talk about all the best ones on the market. Keep reading to discover editor-approved formulas that would be perfect for a future Life of a Showgirl tour. A girl can hope, right?
This is the shade that (may have) started it all, NARS Morocco.
A coral red, NARS Walkyrie is perfect for people who want the middle ground shade.
Prefer a tinted lip balm? Pick up Bobbi Brown's in the shade Bare Melon.
Go bold with Pat McGrath's Obsessed!, a bright orange red.
Hourglass's lipsticks are woefully underrated. Pick up the shade Zinnia, an orange-red, to go with your The Life of a Showgirl merch.
Needless to say, I was under a tremendous amount of stress and just not feeling well. After ignoring signs from my body for weeks, I had the worst panic attack of my life—during my partner’s graduation party, no less. One moment, my sister and I were sneaking off to go pick up catering, the next I was lying on a stretcher, attached to all sorts of machines. The experience left me with what my psychiatrist labeled as panic disorder, alongside a healthy dose of agoraphobic behaviors.
My primary symptoms included trouble breathing, dizzy spells, and a racing heartbeat every day (and night) for weeks after the initial incident. While this obviously affected my day-to-day life, it also deeply affected my sleep. I would find myself waking up mid-panic attack, terrified to go back to sleep in case it happened again. I couldn’t take it anymore.
I started looking into calming, holistic remedies. There was magnesium oil, which I sprayed on the bottom of my feet before going to sleep, and peppermint oil, to help promote deep breathing. There was even an oral herb spray to promote calm from the inside out. All of them did their intended jobs but left me smelling like a witch’s brew, and it felt like a constant reminder that I was doing this because I feared my mind would revolt otherwise. These conflicting herbal scents just reinforced this feeling of fear that there was something wrong with me.
Enter: my fragrance-before-bed ritual. I was craving the little practices that I, as a beauty editor, would do to boost my mood and morale, all of which were completely sidelined as I navigated my new diagnosis. As the weeks went on, I found the act of topping all these products with a fragrance, scented lotion, or body oil that I actually wanted to use was a way to exercise a bit of control in a time where it felt like life was dragging me by my ponytail.
Yes, I’d take my antidepressants and use all the oils and sprays because I had to, but putting on a bit of perfume became the one thing that felt like me. Plus, as a beauty lover to my core, I loved the whimsy that a fragrance could bring into an otherwise mundane routine. It was that little bit of extra self-love that made me feel kind of normal again, before the idea of stepping out of my front door made me hyperventilate and fall into a puddle of tears.
It’s been over a year since I experienced the Great Panic Attack of 2024, but applying perfume before bed is a ritual that has stuck with me, even as I’ve continued to learn different coping methods for living with panic disorder. The act of sitting on my bed, taking a few deep breaths, and spraying my favorite scents is a practice that takes a minute or less, but leaves me feeling grounded and in my body in a way that I hardly experience otherwise.
It continuously proves to me that my love of beauty and its auxiliaries isn’t just a frivolous hobby—it’s a way for me to continuously learn about myself and my body, which is even more important to me as I grow in my womanhood. It’s a way for me to feel sensual, clear-headed, and calm in a city and society that tries to force me to be the opposite every day. Fragrance has helped me to navigate panic disorder, but it’s ultimately helping me prove to myself that I am my biggest advocate, caretaker, and confidant, and that I have a say in my approach to wellness and mental health care. That sense of autonomy and control? There’s no better way to calm an anxious, panicky mind. And the fragrances that I'm wearing? It's my newfound scent of peace.
]]>King’s hair was nothing short of a work of art. It was braided down into a low ponytail, before being tucked into a bun—an elegant, low-maintenance version of the timeless style. Of course, she added her personal flair to the look by incorporating braided kiss curls and baby hairs. Finally, the deep side part she chose gave the hairstyle the appearance of side bangs. The star finished the look with a smokey eye, satin-matte complexion makeup, and a soft touch of color on the lips and cheeks.
Elevated bun hairstyles have been popular lately, with celebrities like Aimee Lou Wood, Nicole Ari Parker, and even Selena Gomez recently spotted wearing them. King’s version of the look captures all the best parts of a chic yet practical hairstyle. The cornrows require little to no styling daily, the style itself is classic, and the small added touches make it feel eclectic and trendy—it’s the coolest hairstyle I’ve seen from a celebrity in a while. .
I’m not blessed with the ability to cornrow my own hair, but for the folks who are, and who would like to recreate King’s look at home, keep reading for a few products that will make the project much easier
The foundation of any good hairstyle is clean hair, but it's especially important when doing a protective style like King's.
When doing fresh cornrows, make sure to apply an oil like this one to help lock in any hydrating treatments before braiding.
The most important part of any cornrow hairstyle? Precise parts, which you can achieve using these rat-tail combs.
Braid gels help with gripping the hair before cornrowing, making the braiding process a little easier.
It feels like a crime that all braided hairstyles don't automatically come with a bonnet, but until then, grab this one from Amazon.
Orebella's new scent is called "Eternal Roots." In honor of its debut, Hadid attended the launch party (which also saw her besties Kendall Jenner, Kylie Jenner, and Hailey Bieber in attendance) wearing a backless white dress with a plunging neckline. She pulled her hair up into a slick bun and added what appears to be a raspberry hair pin to the top of it. Since the product description notes that one of the top notes of "Eternal Roots" is raspberry, I'd assume that she chose to wear the hair pin as a way to honor that, and if that's the case, it's probably the cutest thing I've seen all week.
During the event on Aug. 13, Bieber shared a photo of Hadid to her Instagram Story and called her an "ethereal princess" in the caption. TBH, that's not a bad description, since the drapey white dress paired with the gold arm cuffs, body jewelry, and fruity hair pin are definitely giving goddess energy. In a separate promotional post for Orebella, Hadid is seen wearing her hair in '70s-style a half-up, half-down bouffant, so it's safe to say that she's trying her hand at a variety of goddess-like hairstyles for the rollout of the fragrance.
Hadid's slick bun looks easy enough to recreate at home, but if you want to add your own fruity accessory and aren't sure where to look, read ahead to shop a few products that'll help you get the look at home.
Not only are there a load of pink hues to choose from—magenta, hot pink, bubblegum, blush, you name it—there's also an endless amount of ways for you to get creative with wearing pink nail polish if all-over color isn't exactly what you're going for. From minimalist designs and pink chrome overlays to classic pink French tips, there's truly a pink nail design out there for everyone.
To give you some ideas ahead of your next nail appointment, I've rounded up 21 stunning pink manicures to try for the upcoming season.
Barely There Pink
There's nothing wrong with keeping things simple with a solid color. If you're going for a classic nude look, try picking up a sheer or flesh-toned pink.
Pink Micro Tips
French tips are never a bad idea, but if your nails are on the shorter side, micro tips can help them look slightly longer.
Polka Dots
ICYMI, polka dots are so back. It seems like everyone (from Dua Lipa to Kylie Jenner) is wearing polka dots on their nails these days, but the design you choose to incorporate the pattern into doesn't have to be basic. This manicure features several of shades of pink painted in a gradient pattern on each nail before large dots are added on top.
Pink Aura
If you've seen aura nails before, then you know that most times they feature starkly different colors that often reside in different families, but this design proves that there's a way to make aura nails look stunning even if you're going for an all-pink vibe.
Pink Chrome
Nothing adds a bit of oomph to an otherwise neutral manicure quite like a chrome powder. Choose a base color, then use a sponge to rub some of this on top to get that shiny, metallic finish.
Hot Pink
If you want an all-over color in lieu of a complex design, hot pink is about as classic as it gets.
Pink Cat Eye
This look is pretty similar to a chrome finish, except the finish is a lot shinier and more metallic. They're striking enough to make a statement without being overly complicated to achieve.
Baby Pink Tips
When in doubt, just take a classic French manicure and transform it with baby pink tips. Don't want to visit the salon? Try press-ons.
Glitter Pink
Choosing an all-over color block instead of a complex design is always fine, but if you want to spice things up without getting too out-of-the-box, throw on a glitter polish.
Two-Toned Pink
Getting a color block manicure doesn't mean that you have to limit yourself to just one shade. This one combines two lighter shades of pink on separate fingers to add a bit more fun to the look.
Pink Hearts
Pink tips are a great way to spice up a manicure, but to some people, they can feel a little boring. If you want to go even harder, add a little something extra—like a heart!—to an accent nail.
Pink Ombré
The great thing about ombré nails is that, depending on the colors and style you choose, they can be as subtle or as dramatic as you want them to be. This one falls on the subtle side, combining two light shades of pink to create a design that flows together perfectly.
Checkerboard
Want to get creative with prints? Try your hand at a checkerboard design like the one in this manicure.
Squiggly Lines
Dark pink squiggly lines add a playful element to this half-French, half-block color look. Get ready to practice drawing with a steady hand if you plan on doing this one at home.
Multicolored Stripes
Stripes are already a really unique design element to add to a manicure, but if you really want to get funky, you can play with different kinds. This design features vertical and horizontal stripes as well as skinny and thick ones, but everything still manages to work well together.
Hand-Painted Bows
A hand-painted ribbon can add the perfect touch of girliness to your manicure. If painting one on each nail sounds like too much of a challenge, try just adding one to an accent nail.
Polka Dot Tips
Again, polka dots don't have to be boring. This manicure features a two-toned French design with tiny pink polka dots on the tips to add a touch of sparkle.
Pink and White Stripes
Don't forget about pastels. A pastel pink is bold but still fresh, and adding a striped or squiggle element like this design will allow you to play with fun designs without getting too dramatic.
Baby Pink Croc
Animal print nails have been everywhere lately, but croc print designs seem to be what most people are gravitating toward. This scaly print is already edgy on its own, but adding a baby pink color to the look can soften it up.
Pink Venom
This manicure seamlessly blends two pink hues into one another while adding a slight 3D element.
Pink Reverse French
Tired of boring French manicures? Switch things up by painting the "tip" at the base of your nail. I Personally also find this much easier to DIY as your nail bed serves as the guide.
Why Trust Marie Claire
For more than 30 years, Marie Claire has been an internationally recognized destination for news, fashion and beauty trends, investigative packages, and more. When it comes to the products Marie Claire recommends, we take your faith in us seriously. Every product that we feature comes personally recommended by a Marie Claire writer or editor, or by an expert we’ve spoken to firsthand.
]]>As a New Yorker (I’ve been here for almost 10 years, so I feel entitled to the claim), I’m frankly never going to be persuaded that any place has better beauty opportunities than the city. (Save Paris, of course.) That being said, a big chunk of Manhattan packs up to head Out East every June through August—with some of the best talent in tow. That means exclusive aesthetician pop-ups, seasonal shopping opportunities, and hairstylist residencies get scattered throughout the Hamptons. If you’re really immersed in the beauty scene, you also know the concierge doctors who will bring cutting-edge facials to your Airbnb and the spray tan artists who travel to you.
Whether you spend all summer in a Hamptons house, going in on a share house, or you are just taking a long weekend to survey the scene, chances are you’re going to want to treat yourself to a facial, blowout, massage, or manicure at some point. I’ve been out a few weekends already this summer, so I’ve had the lucky chance to pay a visit to a few Hamptons's hot spots. My favorites—along with some local recommendations—ahead.
Best Facial in the Hamptons
Pietro Simone
With clients like Leah Michelle, Gwyneth Paltrow, and Sarah Paulson, a facial with Simone is a luxury experience. His West Village outpost is HQ, but for the second year in a row, you can pay him a visit at the East Hampton studio. He’s known for blending Italian hospitality with highly effective, cutting-edge treatments that leverage exosomes, microneedling, and energy-based lasers. Choose from a range of hyper-specific facials, some of which address rosacea and redness, dull skin, or fine lines and wrinkles.
Dewy Reboot Facial: 60 minutes
Cost: $365
A Studio Spa
A popular medspa located in East Hampton, A Studio is a no-fuss in-and-out style spot that is efficient and effective. Pop in for a quick 30 to 60-minute treatment, and choose from a curated menu of options, including Hydrafacials, microcurrents, LED, and chemical peels. Aestheticians use exclusively Eminence skincare and treatments, and while most come at a flat rate, they can be customized with a handful of add-ons. Fun fact: they also have a teen facial if you’re looking to make the outing a family affair.
Biodyamic Facial: 55 minutes
Cost: $295
Dr. Hamptons
Dr. Hamptons, also known as Dr. Alexander Golberg, has been servicing the Hamptons area for decades with his concierge practice. The biggest pro: he’ll come to you, with NAD+ drips in tow. As for his facials? You’re looking at more medical options, with PRP, Botox, and filler in his arsenal.
Cost: By request
Best Massage
Baker House Hotel
Nestled in East Hampton, this luxury bed and breakfast boasts unmatched exclusivity. Get this: only two people are permitted in the private spa at a time, giving access to a full pool, sauna, and steam room. The romantic space lends itself perfectly to a couples massage—but you can also choose a solo Swedish massage, hot stone massage, CBD massage, and more.
Couples Massage: 60 minutes
Cost: $380
J&G Enjoy Feet
Hear me out: sometimes you just need a really good foot massage. You can book via Classpass or directly through the business and sign up for an array of bodywork and reflexology sessions. The prices are very affordable, you can always get an appointment, and I promise you’ll leave feeling incredibly relaxed.
Customizable: 60 or 90 minutes
Cost: Varies
Gurneys Seawater Spa
One of my favorite spas Out East for just about any beauty treatment, you can’t go wrong spending a day here. Looking for a rec? The Salt Stone Massage is my personal favorite. You’ll be camped out in the beautiful Salt Room, which harnesses the healing elements of sea and salt. Think of it like a traditional Swedish massage, with a mineral-infused twist.
Therapeutic Fusion Himalayan Salt Stone Massage: 60 Minutes
Cost: $330
Best Spa
Shou Sugi Ban House
Easily my favorite place in all of the Hamptons, Shou Sugi is like a little oasis. It’s tucked away in East Hampton, but stepping on the property could easily transport you to a spa abroad. It’s a gorgeous and luxurious sanctuary that feels like an escape from the rest of the world. You can pop by for a massage, facial, or plunge pool—or do an overnight stay complete with delicious, organic meals, sound healing classes, and of course, spa treatments. Just make sure you book in advance—they fill up quickly.
Sisley-Paris The Wellness Cabana at Montauk Yacht Club
What’s chicer than a spa on a boat? If you find yourself at Montauk Yacht Club for dinner at Ocean Club or a day at the pool, treat yourself to a treatment or two at Sisley’s summer pop-up. They’ve taken over the cabana and are offering a wide range of their signature treatments, from facials to massages. Book an express for just 30 minutes or indulge in a 90-minute treatment for some true downtime.
Naturopathica Spa & Healing Center
I’m a big fan of the Naturopathica spa in Manhattan, so it’s no surprise that I have the same affinity for the Hampton’s outpost. Situated in East Hampton and Bridgehampton, it offers just about everything you could want during a spa day: microcurrent, lymphatic drainage, cryotherapy, and more. My personal favorite is the Hydraperk treatment, which basically mimics the look of lip filler and is perfect before an event.
Best Manicure + Pedicure
Angel Tips
If you didn’t have time to get your nails done in the city before heading Out East, consider getting a manicure at Angel Tips in Bridgehampton. It’s a go-to spot for locals. They offer acrylic manicures (in addition to regular), pedicures with massages, and gel X—for a relatively affordable price point (think: $60-80).
Hampton’s Mobile Beauty
Think of this like GlamSquad: Hampton’s Edition. With hundreds of specialists and dozens of treatments from treatments to choose from, this is the best in-a-pinch option out there. Book online, a provider will show up to your home (with all the sanatized tools necessary) and give you a quality mani-pedi from the comfort of your couch.
Gorgeous Guli
With one salon in Flatiron, Manhattan and another in East Hampton, Gorgeous Guli is the only spot Out East I’d trust to do a Russian manicure. The TLDR: Russian manicures, while expensive and time-consuming, last for nearly four weeks and are focused on removing your entire cuticle for a finish that looks damn near flawless and looks fresh all month.
Best Blowout
Eddie and Arthur Salon
With a sister salon on the Upper East of Manhattan (and talent that travels), you know this salon is going to be good. Arthur, one of the co-owners, trained under Oscar Blandi in NYC for years, and then opened his own shop. It has a luxe feel, talented pros, and is a go-to for cut and color among native New Yorkers.
Valerie Joseph
Based in Bridgehampton (and with a spot on the Upper West Side), Valerie Joseph is a luxe destination. It’s pricey, but I promise you can’t go wrong. The team is incredible and friendly, and I’d blindly trust them to cut my hair. For color, you’ll want to make an appointment with the lead colorist Nicole.
Special Effects Unisex Hair Salon
My friend (hi, Natalie), who grew up in the Hamptons, told me about this spot, which is her go-to for an affordable, last-minute blowout or haircut. She also loves their Malibu treatments, which get the green tint out of hair color that’s seen too much chlorine.
Best Beauty Shopping Destination
Beauty Bar at Surf Lodge
If you need an incentive other than five-star chicken fingers to stay at Surf Lodge: let me introduce you to the hotel’s complimentary mini bar, curated by CGC Global. Your room will come with the ultimate shopping experience. (Seriously, you don’t even need to pack a cosmetics bag.) You’ll be met with goodies from Anastasia Beverly Hills, Mutha, Summer Fridays, Ultra Violette (the best sunscreen in the world, FYI), and Westman Atelier.
Jones Road
Forgot your makeup at home? Stop by Jones Road’s brick-and-mortar shop in East Hampton to restock—or maybe try something new. The Beauty Balm is the brand’s cult-favorite, but don’t overlook the Gel Bronzer, Shimmer Face Oil, and Mascara.
Bluemercury
A classic, and a good one. Pop by Bluermercury’s East Hampton location to get everything you need and still experience the small neighborhood shop vibe. The sales associates are also a wealth of beauty knowledge.
Why Trust Marie Claire
For more than 30 years, Marie Claire has been an internationally recognized destination for news, fashion and beauty trends, investigative packages, and more. When it comes to the products Marie Claire recommends, we take your faith in us seriously. Every product that we feature comes personally recommended by a Marie Claire writer or editor, or by an expert we’ve spoken to firsthand.
]]>A mix of a Pamela Anderson updo and a classic claw clip style, Hadid’s look was the epitome of model-off-duty. Her blonde strands, revealed just a few short months ago, were pulled away from her face and twisted vertically before being secured with what appears to be a gold claw clip. Similar to Pamela Anderson’s version of the style, Hadid used a deep side part to highlight her face-framing layers, creating the illusion of bangs. The model paired this style with an adorable white lace mini dress and matching shorts, set against a picturesque backdrop.
Hadid has never been one to shy away from a great hair transformation, and if you’ve been following her on social media, you probably know this is just the latest in a long line of hairstyles over the past few months alone. She’s been spotted in the oversized hair accessory trend, popularized by street style looks coming out of Copenhagen Fashion Week. She’s tried her hand at the wet hair trend while on set in Paris back in April. She has even been seen with the ultimate classic: a bouncy, voluminous blowout while running errands.
Hadid likely has a glam team who creates these styles for her, but if you’re a one-woman show, you can still DIY this look at home. Keep reading for the products that will make your Hadid-inspired hairstyle a breeze.
Those front pieces seem to have just a touch of a curl, and I love to use this cordless straightener from ghd to get a similar look without having to take out the entire hair tool kit.
Heat protectant is nonnegotiable when using styling tools, and what's even better is that this one also cuts blow-dry time in half.
This looks almost like the exact clip that Hadid wore in her picture.
An easy, lightweight oil is perfect to give your hair a healthy-looking sheen.
Though she's likely to use her fragrance, using a hair perfume is absolutely something that I can see a supermodel doing.
Scars are, technically, the body’s repair mechanism in action. But they can also be a very visible reminder of something bigger. I have my fair share of marks from my breast reduction, and even though I’m four years out, I still wonder if they’ll ever fade. There’s absolutely nothing wrong with wearing them proudly—it’s something I’m working on—but it’s equally fair to want them to be less visible. While it’s rare for a scar to fade completely, says board-certified dermatologist Brian Hibler, MD, they can be “camouflaged with the surrounding skin.” The trouble is, when every product and procedure claims miracle results, figuring out what actually works (and for which type of scar) can feel overwhelming fast.
That’s why I went straight to the professionals. I asked board-certified dermatologists to break down the most common types of scars and separate what treatments work from what doesn't. Because if you’re going to spend money, it should be on a product or procedure that actually fades scars. Keep reading for the best in-office and at-home treatments to invest in to help heal and camouflage scars.
What Is a Scar?
Put simply, “a scar is the normal healing mechanism your body employs to repair tissue,” says Dr. Hibler. Beneath the skin, collagen fibers are rapidly produced to close the wound and protect the area. However, unlike normal skin, the collagen is laid down in a more disorganized way. The result? The tissue looks and feels different, and can appear raised, flat, or indented depending on the type of injury and how your body heals, says board-certified dermatologist Dendy Engelman, MD.
Some people are simply more prone to scarring than others, and it comes down to genetics and how each person’s unique skin heals. And a not-so-well-known fact? Stronger inflammatory response or higher collagen production can lead to thicker, raised scars called keloids. Skin tone also plays a role: darker skin tends to be more susceptible to dark marks and keloids. On top of that, how you care for the wound and whether it gets irritated or infected can affect the final look of the scar. And that final look? The scar can keep evolving for up to 12 months after the initial injury—or even two years depending on the degree of the trauma.
Types of Scars
- Acne Scars
- Surgical & Injury Scars
- Raised Scars
- Stretch Marks
Acne Scars
- What They Are:
Not all marks left behind by breakouts are actual scars, says Dr. Engelman. Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH) is the dark discoloration that lingers after a breakout; it’s not a true scar, but instead a temporary pigment response to inflammation. These flat spots are especially common in medium to deep skin tones and usually fade over time. “True acne scars, however, involve a change in skin structure, like pitted (atrophic) scars or raised (hypertrophic) scars, where there’s actual collagen loss or buildup,” says Dr. Engelman.
- How to Treat:
Like all scars, treating acne-specific ones requires a tailored approach depending on the type and your skin tone. For fading dark marks, Dr. Engelman recommends gentle but effective ingredients such as niacinamide, which helps regulate pigment production while calming inflammation, and vitamin C, which brightens and protects the skin from further discoloration. Azelaic acid is ideal for both acne and pigmentation, especially for sensitive skin or those prone to melasma. Retinoids speed up cell turnover, fading marks faster and preventing new breakouts. “And for more stubborn spots, I often recommend tranexamic acid as a newer, well-tolerated brightener that works beautifully on lingering hyperpigmentation,” she says.
For textured or indented scars, in-office treatments vary. Dr. Engelman points to microneedling with radio frequency as a go-to treatment—it works by stimulating collagen production, gradually smoothing and improving the skin’s texture over time. For deeper scars, fractional lasers like Fraxel or CO2 are super effective, though they require some downtime and are generally best for lighter skin tones to reduce the risk of pigmentation side effects.
Another worth-it investment is subcision, a minimally invasive technique that releases the fibrous bands pulling down the scar, which helps to lift and flatten the area. And for an instant fix, injectable fillers can smooth out rolling scars while also encouraging collagen growth for benefits in the long term.
The Best Acne Scar Products
Surgical & Injury Scars
- What They Are:
These scars result specifically from damage to the skin’s deeper layers, often involving more intense trauma than everyday cuts or injuries. While all scars form through the body’s repair process, surgical and injury scars are often lumped together because they can be larger or more complex.
Depending on the type of surgery you get, the surgeon’s technique, your post-procedure aftercare, and individual healing, these scars can range from thin, faint lines to thicker, larger marks.
- How to Treat:
Treating surgical or injury scars starts with prevention. Dr. Engelman emphasizes keeping the area “clean, protected, and consistently hydrated.” However, before applying any topical product to the area, consult with your doctor as infection or irritation is always a possibility. Once the wound is closed, she recommends applying silicone gels or sheets daily, as they “help flatten and fade the scar by regulating moisture and collagen production.” Sun protection is essential, as UV exposure can permanently darken scars, so applying broad-spectrum SPF or covering the area with clothing is a must. Consciously remind yourself to avoid picking, scratching, or using harsh products to prevent inflammation and bad healing.
Beyond prevention, as the scar begins to heal, you’ll begin to see what kind it’s going to be: whether it be a flat thin line, a raised hypertrophic scar, or an indented atrophic scar. Identifying the scar type early on is key to determining the best treatment approach, as every scar is different, so the plan needs to be customized “based on factors like skin tone, scar age, location, and how it’s responding to earlier treatments,” says Dr. Engelman.
The Best Surgical & Injury Scar Products
Raised Scars
- What They Are:
Raised scars can present in two different ways: hypertrophic scars and keloids. According to Dr. Hibler, a hypertrophic scar is “excessive scar tissue that remains confined to the original wound,” while a keloid “extends beyond the original wound edges.” Hypertrophic scars usually develop more quickly, whereas keloids can take weeks or even months to appear. “Keloids are typically harder to treat and more likely to recur, but the treatment options are the same for both types of scars.”
- How to Treat:
If a raised scar is sensitive, itchy, or causing discomfort, Dr. Hibler says the best first step is steroid injections in the office, and he notes that they are often covered by insurance. For some, using steroid creams covered with a dressing or wrap helps the medicine absorb better and can reduce scar thickness. When these treatments aren’t enough, lasers—especially CO2 and Erbium—can be used to remodel the scar by creating tiny controlled injuries that encourage healthier skin growth, he explains.
Again, prevention during the healing stages plays a key role, too. Silicone gels and sheets have been shown to help prevent hypertrophic scars when used early, and for certain injuries like burns, Dr. Hibler points to pressure garments or therapy as they can also reduce the risk of raised scarring. Daily massage also helps by gently breaking down excess collagen and improving blood flow—use firm pressure, not enough to cause pain, but enough to feel the scar tissue beneath the skin.
The Best Raised Scar Products
Stretch Marks
- What They Are:
While stretch marks aren’t actually considered scars, they do share similarities. Dr. Hibler explains that they happen when the skin stretches rapidly—like during growth spurts, pregnancy, or weight changes—causing tiny tears in the deeper layers of the skin. This happens because the collagen and elastin fibers that keep skin firm break down during this process. Visually, stretch marks start as red or purple streaks and gradually fade to silvery or white lines that are slightly indented or textured.
- How to Treat:
“Stretch marks are one of the most challenging skin concerns to treat cosmetically,” says Dr. Hibler. That said, there are options. The first-line treatment options include topical retinoids to strengthen collagen and help with texture. For new, red stretch marks (known as striae rubra), early treatment with lasers like PDL (Pulsed Dye Laser)—which targets blood vessels to reduce redness and calm irritated skin—can be helpful. Older or more stubborn stretch marks may benefit from microneedling and laser therapies that stimulate collagen production. However, Dr. Hibler notes that these treatments typically require multiple sessions, and the results can vary.
There’s also no shortage of “stretch mark reducing” at-home treatments on the market, though they have limited capabilities. Dr. Hibler recommends hyaluronic acid to plump and hydrate the skin, retinol for collagen production, and vitamin E for moisturizing and antioxidant properties. He also notes that some over-the-counter products contain centella asiatica, and although there isn’t a ton of research supporting the ingredient for stretch marks, “it’s meant to enhance collagen production, reduce inflammation, and improve skin elasticity.”
The Best Stretch Mark Products
How to Choose the Right Scar Treatment
At the end of the day, when it comes to scars, it really isn’t one-size-fits-all. “It’s all about realistic expectations and a customized treatment plan,” says Dr. Engelman. That’s why consulting with a professional can (a) result in a better outcome, and (b) prevent irritation or infection, which will ultimately have an adverse effect.
As a general rule, once the wound has completely healed and you get your doctor’s OK, begin topical treatments like silicone gels and tape, then work into retinoids or brightening creams. Just remember, these usually need at least eight to 12 weeks of consistent use before you begin to see any improvement. For more severe scars, you’ll need to work with a dermatologist and assess your options.
No matter what, don’t forget sun protection—UV exposure can make scars darker and greatly slow down healing. This means slathering on a proper sunscreen (broad spectrum and SPF 30 or higher!) and wearing UV protective clothing.
The good news? At the end of the day, there are options at every price point and for every scar type, from over-the-counter drugstore creams to minimally invasive, in-office treatments. The trick is finding what fits your specific scar type and your goals.
Why Trust Marie Claire
For more than 30 years, Marie Claire has been an internationally recognized destination for news, fashion, and beauty trends, investigative packages, and more. When it comes to the products Marie Claire recommends, we take your faith in us seriously. Every product that we feature comes personally recommended by a Marie Claire writer or editor, or by an expert we’ve spoken to firsthand.
Meet the Experts
]]>Depending on the highlight idea your stylists execute, you can make your natural color appear richer, add dimension, or brighten up your natural tone. Highlights are also a great stepping stone if you don't feel like changing your shade completely. "Highlights offer that perfect in-between. You can add light, shape, and texture without sacrificing the depth and richness of your natural color. It’s more dimensional, more tailored—and way less maintenance than a full color change," celebrity hairstylist and Schwarzkopf Professional’s U.S. Hair Color Trend Ambassador Jacob Schwartz tells Marie Claire. "Highlights let me customize the brightness to exactly where you want it to go—around the face, through the ends, or just a subtle lift."
2025's hair trends are highlight-friendly, with rich girl blondes (we're calling it vanilla biscotti blonde) no-highlight highlights, brondes, and multi-dimensional chocolates taking over. Keep reading for more than 30 highlight ideas from your favorite celebrities and the brilliant colorists whose salon chairs they visit every 6-8 weeks (I'm betting). It's time to lighten up.
Brightening Highlights
A classic highlight setup offers brightens to an otherwise deep shade. Though Tyla's hair is gorgeous at any color—or with any funky accessory—you can see how the blonde worked into her brunette twists here makes her features really pop. Especially when paired with her shimmery metallic eyeshadow.
Babydoll Blonde Highlights
One of Schwartz's favorite highlight creations of recent times was Alix Earle’s “Babydoll Blonde" look. "It’s the kind of bright, glossy blonde that still feels soft and wearable," he explains—and he's even kind enough to give me the formula. "I used IGORA ZERO AMM for the base to neutralize warmth and create a clean canvas, then added pops of brightness with IGORA ROYAL around the face," the expert shares. "For the ends, BLONDME Premium Lightener 9+ gave me that beautiful, controlled lift—it’s my go-to when I want strong results without compromising hair integrity."
Sun-Kissed Highlights
LA-based celebrity colorist Jessica Gonzalez (you can find her on Instagram @jesstheebesttcolor) prefers a sun-kissed look for highlights that enhance the hairline and ends, like the style she created for model Delilah Summer Parillo, above. Her ultimate vision when it comes to a balayage session? "Mimicking children’s sun-kissed hair after a long time in the sun."
"My ultimate inspo is the sun! The way salt and sunlight lighten hair drives my passion for painting highlights," she says. "I look for inspo everywhere. When I’m traveling to beach destinations...most of the surfers and water kids have the best hair!"
Late Summer Highlights
Katie Holmes' warm caramel balayage has a similarly sun-kissed appeal with less blonde. "Highlights can be tailored to anyone, but not every technique is right for everyone," Gonzalez explains. "It’s important to choose the right technique based on the result you are looking for."
For example, if you're brunette looking for some dimension, a minimal balayage is perfect. "If you want a beach-y, effortless, poppy ribbons balayage, that's perfect as well, so you can paint mimicking the sun," she adds.
Thick Honey Highlights
You don't always have to take a super blended approach to your highlights. This Serena Williams look is chunky, but not early aughts chunky (we'll get there in a second). I love how the thick honey pieces frame her face while her dark roots add depth.
Barely-There Face Framing Highlights
On the opposite end of the spectrum, your highlights can be incredibly understated. Zoe Saldaña's face-framing strands feature just a touch of extra brightness from her mid-lengths to ends.
Velvet Blonde Highlights
Schwartz was also behind Alex Cooper’s recent “Velvet Blonde” highlights. "It’s a similar vibe [to the Babydoll Blonde], but with a little more depth for that rich, dimensional finish," he says. "I used the same Schwarzkopf Professional products—IGORA ZERO AMM for the base and BLONDME 9+ to lift through the mids and ends, and then went in with IGORA Vibrance to tone everything down into this soft champagne tone that feels expensive and effortless."
Soft Mink Blonde Highlights
Lisa from BLACKPINK has a 'Soft Mink Blonde' that definitely belongs on this inspo board. "We used VARIO BLOND Super Plus with different volume developers to control lift in specific areas—I love it for achieving bright ribbons while still keeping the hair strong," says Schwartz. "I added in lowlights with IGORA VIBRANCE to build that luxe, mink-toned depth through the midsections, and the tonal layering with VIBRANCE is what made this color feel refined."
Stripe-y Highlights
Here's the ultimate Y2K-inspired highlight. Though Dua Lipa tends to stick to a single color these days, it's hard to forget the stripe-y blonde highlights she wore circa 2020.
Golden Beige Highlights
I know we've seen Margot Robbie with full platinum Barbie highlights in the past, but this sweet, more natural-looking golden beige blonde look is something special. "Warmer, dimensional blondes are definitely having a moment. Think golden beiges, honey tones, and soft caramel melts," explains Schwartz. "It’s less about icy perfection and more about this soft richness."
Supermodel Blonde Highlights
Schwartz has been seeing a lot more layering in current hair highlight techniques, "like combining foils and root smudges to create multidimensional blends that look more organic and less processed." Take Bella Hadid’s “Supermodel Blonde," for example.
"That one was all about high-contrast dimension," he says. "We used VARIO BLOND Super Plus for the highlights and layered in IGORA VIBRANCE lowlights for that high-gloss, supermodel finish. The blend of warm and cool tones, created the perfect neutral blonde hue."
Iconic Blonde Highlights
Hairstylist and color educator Carly Zanoni recently created a look she's calling "Iconic Blonde." She's obsessed, and so am I. "It’s soft, dimensional, and effortless—complementing the natural hair color while giving your client a low-maintenance, long-term grow-out," explains the artist. "For the lift, I started with BLONDME Premium Lightener 9+, mixed 1:1.5 with 7 volume, then gradually bumped up to 20 volume to build brightness while keeping the hair super healthy. For the root melt, I toned with IGORA VIBRANCE 6-0 + 7-1 using 6-volume lotion developer, which gave that perfect soft blend without dulling the pop. On the ends, I finished with IGORA VIBRANCE 9.5-4 + Clear using 6-volume gel developer for that creamy, glowing finish."
Caramel Honey Highlights
Schwarzkopf Digital Artistic Team colorist and educator Brendnetta Ashley recently created a highlight look she calls "Caramel Honey Curly Pop." The "super dimensional and curl-friendly" look is super '90s and also reminiscent of 2024 Rihanna with her natural curls. You can see the full vision come to life on her Instagram.
"For this look, I used BLONDME Premium Lightener 9+ with 7 vol just to add in some highlights to create that pop for her curls, but still maintain their health," explains the artist.
Golden Brunette Highlights
"Highlights are a perfect choice when you're looking to create dimensional color with both highs and lows. While all-over color has its place, it often lacks the subtle depth and contrast that highlights can provide," notes Zanoni. "Thoughtful highlight placement brings light exactly where it’s needed, allowing the natural color to fill in the rest—whether your goal is to create contrast, add softness, or build structure." Keira Knightley has a little bit of all of that going on here, but let's focus on the word light. Doesn't this color give off a golden glow?
Soft Copper Highlights
It's our girl! Keke Palmer has rocked so many fun hair colors over the years, but I'm especially fond of this dynamic red shade. While it shows up as a perfect soft copper, I suggest zooming in to see all the colors and textures at play.
A-Lister Highlights
Like this Romy Mars color, Schwartz thinks highlights should feel natural and effortless. "I always aim for a seamless blend that mimics how the sun would naturally lighten hair. I’m drawn to soft dimension and that signature 'lived-in' glow—color that moves and catches light without ever looking over-processed," he explains. "Whether it's a subtle face frame or full highlights, it should feel intentionally placed and beautiful at every stage of the grow-out."
Golden Blonde Highlights
There's nothing like a Beyoncé announcement, whether it's a surprise album drop or hair color change. This gorgeous, buttery blonde color featured some platinum worked in—just enough to keep things interesting while not overwhelming her famous head.
Side-View Highlights
Lana Del Rey is an expert in the vintage-inspired beauty department, and this piece-y golden goodness worked into her teddy bear brown hair is no exception. I might go so far as to call this a dramatic interpretation of honey-dipped brunette, one of Marie Claire's favorite summer hair color trends.
Naturally Textured Highlights
When highlighting textured hair, Ashley is all about keeping the curl pattern intact. She wants the color to work with the hair's natural movement, like Nathalie Emmanuel's ever-so-softly blended shade above. "I’m placing brightness where it makes the shape pop — not where it’s gonna mess with the texture. For my clients with textured hair, highlighting their hair is a marathon, not a sprint," she explains. "Slow, steady, and controlled lift is the name of the game. It’s about keeping my client’s hair healthy, their curls bouncy, and making sure their color works with the movement, not against it."
Subtle Ombré Highlights
Halle Berry has had the chance to rock plenty of shades in her career. Still, there might be a reason she returns to a subtle ombré highlight setup time and time again. "Highlights are my go-to for adding intentional dimension and brightness. They help define coils, bring out texture, and frame the shape without overpowering it," Ashley adds. "With textured hair, all-over color can flatten things out or be too drying. But when you place highlights intentionally, you get lift and depth while keeping the bounce."
As for where the actress—and everyone else—might go next with their shade? "I’m really loving where color is headed right now," the hairstylist adds. "Clients are loving soft pops of color that are made to move with the hair, but still add some dimension and excitement. It’s all about placing those subtle ribbons of color that highlight the curl pattern, not fight it."
Caramel Drizzle Highlights
"Highlights give you dimension and movement—it’s like natural light is hitting your hair at the perfect angles all the time," hairstylist Jacob Sirianno notes. If he's "done his job right," Sirianno says his clients will get "a cool grow-out." You can tell Tate McRae's color is fairly fresh here, but you can also tell it'll look good in a few weeks' time—do you see how that caramel drizzle face framing is already working so nicely with the root? "Most of my clients come in every 12 weeks, sometimes longer," the expert adds. "The key is smart placement and tone."
Soft Mushroom Highlights
Mushroom brown is one of the trendiest brunette hair colors. The muted shade is cool, earthy, and super wearable, playing tribute to your natural hair color with a little extra...something. In this case, that something is Marie Claire cover star Alison Brie's expertly blended champagne highlights.
Honeycomb Bronde Highlights
Another trendy hair color to consider: honeycomb bronde. Per the "bronde" moniker, this pretty shade marries two classics that are just perfect for each other: blonde and brown. But instead of just growing out your natural roots or finding somewhere in the middle to land, it favors some special highlight placements for an individualized hue.
Cool Girl Highlights
Sirianno points to Hailey Bieber's hair as an example of forever cool girl hair color. (For what it's worth, his other muses are Margot Robbie "I love every shade she has done, from rooted and natural to bright and blonde), Jennifer Aniston ("always an icon for hair color"), and Rosie Huntington-Whiteley ("the chicest hair color to ever exist").
Unlike the famous blondes, Bieber tends to stay uniformly brunette, changing up her formula depending on the season and making sure her look appears natural with just enough brightness worked in around the face.
Subtle Money Piece Highlights
See what Sirianno means? Huntington-Whiteley has always had the best highlight ideas. Currently, she's wearing her blonde locks with a soft, sun-kissed money piece up front. "I only wash my hair two or three times a week. It’s out of complete laziness. I'll get a good two days, and then on the third day it's scraped back in the bun," the model previously told Marie Claire. And guess what? Slicked back or blown out, the color works.
Stick of Butter Highlights
One reason Sirianno loves doing highlights? They’re so personal. "I can place brightness exactly where it flatters your face, your haircut, your skin tone. It’s sculptural. It’s storytelling. With blondes especially, I love creating that high-end, undone vibe—the kind that looks expensive but not trying too hard," he says. Take Vanessa Kirby and this platinum face-framing, for example. It looks expensive but not try-hard, and you know her strands are healthy if they're picking up tone like that.
Root-y Highlights
Zendaya has rocked so, so many great hair colors over the years, but this platinum blonde and espresso situation is special because it shows how a grow-out can be planned ahead of time to work with your natural shade. Her dark roots aren't an afterthought against the platinum blonde strands—they're part of the whole experience.
Surfer Girl Highlights
Falling right in line with Gonzalez's highlight philosophy, quintessential California girl Gwyneth Paltrow is forever showing off the ideal water baby/sun-kissed/surfer girl highlights. Is it all natural, or is it the work of an excellent colorist? I bet you can guess.
Romantic Heroine Highlights
Don't Amanda Seyfried's soft blonde highlights give '90s romance heroine? They're just so soft, I half expect her to pull a felt cap out of her pocket and go strolling through Central Park with a love interest.
Honey-Dipped Brunette Highlights
For anyone who's been obsessed with Brenda Song's dark hair since her Disney Channel days, take comfort in the fact that you've always had good taste. This shade is especially bright, with strands the color of whipped honey worked into her long, warm brown locks.
Milky Espresso Highlights
By now, you probably know the concept of balayage: a freehand hair-dying technique that lends to a natural, soft, and blended dye job. Ayo Edibiri's light-at-the-ends to dark-at-the-roots transition is no doubt the work of a great colorist—and couldn't be prettier.
Toasted Coconut Cream Highlights
This toasted coconut cream color, another of Marie Claire's favorite trends, is all about warmth. The brunette shade features finely woven caramel highlights (you could also do a warm brown or honey) for an especially cozy, lived-in look.
Mocha Mousse Highlights
Pantone's 2025 color of the year, mocha mousse, has unsurprisingly been it since crowned. The shade has stolen the scene in every world: luxury fashion, manicures, home decor. Here, the gorgeous Lori Harvey shows how you can even make the shade work in the hair color realm. The shade is concentrated around her face, with smaller sections worked in all over.
How Do I Choose the Best Highlight For Me?
When deciding what direction to go with your highlights, Sirianno recommends starting with what you want your hair to feel like. Do you want it sun-kissed and subtle, or bold and bright?
Then, ask your stylist some questions. “Where should we place the lightness to bring out my features?" “What tone works best with my skin and natural color?" and “How can we make this look chic and natural?” are his best recommendations.
"And always bring inspo—not just for color, but vibe," adds the artist. "Hair speaks in references."
Highlights and Hair Health
It's no secret that the bleach bowl is tough on your hair. Gonzalez says that when you go in for highlights, it's always important to consider the integrity of your locks. "Also, take into consideration how often you want to come into the salon for touch-ups," she says. "Making sure you have the right products at home to take care of your hair is very important."
Ashley adds that, when working with textured hair, especially, you want to make sure you're retaining as much moisture as possible.
Highlight Upkeep
Schwartz says that clients going for a rooted, lived-in blonde can usually stretch anywhere from 12 to 14 weeks between appointments. If it’s a cleaner blonde or more of a high-contrast look, he suggests touch-ups every four to six weeks. "But with proper toning and home care, the goal is always to have clients love the way their growth looks," he adds.
As far as products go, Sirianno recommends focusing on adding moisture back into your hair by using a moisture mask. "A gloss every six weeks keeps the tone luxe and shiny and re-melts your root so your color can go even longer," he adds. "And always, always a heat protectant—K18 Molecular Repair Oil is my current obsession." With proper at-home maintenance, your highlights should look dazzling—at least until your next color appointment.
Why Trust Marie Claire
For more than 30 years, Marie Claire has been an internationally recognized destination for news, fashion and beauty trends, investigative packages, and more. When it comes to the products Marie Claire recommends, we take your faith in us seriously. Every product that we feature comes personally recommended by a Marie Claire writer or editor, or by an expert we’ve spoken to firsthand.
Meet the Experts
]]>The soon-to-be 30-year-old shared a series of photos to Instagram on Aug. 12 following an early birthday celebration she threw for herself with close friends and family. Her beachy backdrop was obviously stunning, but I was immediately drawn to her nails, which were painted a very simple flesh-toned pink color and filed into a medium almond shape.
While summer is usually the season for bold nail colors and designs, nude nail looks have also been having a moment as of late, likely because they're minimal, they go with everything, and they can give your overall look a quietly luxurious vibe. Lipa's nails are similar to the "hot rich girl" manicure that Jennifer Lopez recently wore after she and her longtime manicurist, Tom Bachik, coined the named.
"I did this really beautiful chic nude color on a new set of nails for Jennifer Lopez for an event and she said, 'Oh, these are rich—I’ve got rich girl nails.' And we just started calling them that," Bachik previously told MC. He also explained that the rich girl look typically consists of "medium to long nails in length, shaped in a narrow coffin to almond style" with colors ranging from beige to "pinky or semi-sheer nude."
Scroll ahead for ideas on how to get the hot rich girl look at home and channel your own Dua Lipa-inspired manicure.
For the event, Gomez’s hair was first parted down the middle, then brushed up into a ponytail. The ends were twisted and tucked into a bun, and judging by how sleek the front looks, I guess a good amount of gel and some kind of flyaway cream finished the style.
A good bun is like your favorite purse or outfit—it’s a versatile style that works for nearly any occasion. Gomez’s sleek version, in particular, is one she’s worn before, and she’s demonstrated its versatility at red carpets and events worldwide.
Other celebrities like Bella Hadid and Nicole Ari Parker have long supported the slick back bun. Still, if you struggle with anything hair-related like I do, it’s going to take more than photo inspiration to get your perfect snatched bun. It’s a style that I’ve gradually learned to perfect over the years, so if you’re ready to recreate Gomez’s look, keep reading for step-by-step tips and products that will make the process much easier.
Sometimes, getting my sleek bun requires the use of a bit of heat. One of my favorite straighteners is this one from Babyliss.
If you own a heat-styling tool, you need to own heat protectant. This cult-favorite formula is a must for your collection.
Part and brush your hair with ease using these tools from T3.
One of my favorite hacks for a seamless bun? Hair ties that match your hair color.
The type of gel you use depends on your hair type. That being said, almost any texture can use a styling stick like this one to prevent frizz and flyaways.
If you can recall, Moretz's hair was previously a lighter, honey shade of blonde, but she revealed her new look via Instagram this week. The transformation comes just as she kicks off her promotional tour for her new Christmas movie, Oh. What. Fun., which premieres on Dec. 3. Her hair was colored by celebrity hairstylist and colorist Jacob Schwartz, who's also responsible for Bella Hadid's honey blonde transformation earlier this year. Per a press release, Schwartz used a high-performance lightener and a demi-permanent hair color from Schwarzkopf Professional to give the actress a lived-in look. He also gave her subtle, face-framing highlights that seamlessly blend into the darker parts of her hair.
Bronde is a mashup of—you guessed it—brunette and blonde, and it's a perfect choice for brunettes who want to go slightly lighter without putting their hair through the harsh transition that comes with fully going blonde. It's also perfect for anyone who's already a blonde but wants a color that's a bit softer and warmer.
Moretz follows a handful of other celebrities who have debuted a bronde hair color this year, the most recent being Denise Richards, who grew out her previously bleached hair and slightly lightened up her natural color.
If you're thinking of going bronde for fall, it's best to reach out to a hairstylist or colorist who can perfectly customize your color. Once that's done, you can keep your new color looking fresh and new with the products ahead.
Hair that's been lightened or colored is a little more prone to dryness, so make sure you're using a shampoo that'll cleanse without stripping and add moisture back into your strands.
Speaking of moisture, look for a conditioner that not only hydrates and conditions, but also helps repair bonds that have been broken by color and chemicals, like this one.
This light leave-in cream will keep your color from fading while also keeping your hair protected from damage and breakage. Apply it to damp hair and don't rinse out.
For a shine boost, try this beloved hair oil that's also known for softening the hair and taming frizz.
This lightweight serum will kick up the amount of moisture in your strands without weighing down your hair or leaving behind a greasy film.
“Many of them are repeat customers,” says the self-taught artist, whose clients include Real Housewives of Atlanta star Porsha Williams, soca icons Destra Garcia and Alison Hinds, and publicist Yvette Noel-Schure (yes, Beyoncé’s publicist). This year, she’ll see about 60 people over just a few days, and around 30 percent of her annual income comes from Carnival season.
While most masqueraders are thinking about costumes and the latest soca hits, Layne is focused on one thing: making sure their makeup lasts from sunrise fetes to midnight parades. “Carnival makeup artistry does not get the recognition that it deserves in the global beauty industry, and we have a long way to go,” she says.
Carnival is big business in the Caribbean, generating millions in revenue and visitors each year. In the seven days leading up to Carnival, the Grenada Tourism Board reports a 33.3 percent increase in international visitors this year compared to 2023. The season kicks off with Saint Kitts Sugar Mas in mid-November and continues into early January, but Trinidad’s February celebration really sets the tone for the year. No matter the island, one thing stays the same: the demand for glam that doesn’t budge.
If it can survive Carnival, it can survive anything—weddings, festivals, and yes, even August in the NYC subway. Ahead, three Caribbean makeup artists share their must-have tips, products, and pro tricks to achieve a sweat-proof, transfer-proof look that lasts all day (and all night).
Start with Skin Prep
“Makeup always stays better on skin that’s been well prepped,” says Melissa Deane, a Trinidad-based makeup artist with over a decade experience. She tells clients to cleanse, tone, treat (with a targeted serum), moisturize, and apply SPF daily.
Making sure your skin is adequately moisturized is key for helping your makeup sit smoothly. Layne recommends a hydrating face mask, like Dr. Althea Aqua Blue Hydration Mask, before going in with your base makeup. Kai Forde, owner of Simply Beautiful studio in St. James, Trinidad, also recommends drinking plenty of water to hydrate the skin from the inside out.
Clean skin is a must prior to makeup, so reach for a gentle cleanser—yes, even for acne-prone skin. La Roche Posay Toleriane Hydrating Gentle Face Cleanser is a go-to option. Follow with a hydrating toner, like TIRTIR Milk Skin Toner and a serum rich in humectants like hyaluronic acid or glycerin. This helps to keep your skin supple and plump, allowing your makeup to lay more smoothly and evenly. Deane swears by Embroylisse Lait-Créme Concentré because “it adds hydration without feeling heavy.” She notes that there’s also a matte version, which is great for oily skin.
Layne adjusts the moisturizer to account for skin type: “Use a formula that’s water-based for oily skin, like Peach & Lily Glass Skin Water Gel Moisturizer, and oil-based for dry skin—my go-to is Nivea Creme. It’s a water-in-oil emulsion that deeply hydrates.” As for the best SPF, choose a lightweight, no-white-cast formula, SPF50+, like IT Cosmetics Hello Sunshine Invisible Hydrating Serum Sunscreen SPF50, to protect the skin during a daytime celebration.
The final (and most important) prep step is primer. For mature, dry skin, Layne doubles up on primers, and uses a hydrating formula around the eye area and by the nose “where makeup is more prone to separate in the heat.” However, Layne shares a secret Carnival priming tip: calamine lotion. “It gives you a matte finish and also helps if you have any type of irritation.” She applies it lightly and evenly with a brush, focusing on the t-zone. “I’ve tried other primers but nothing else really gives me that long-wear. Living in the Caribbean, it’s very hot, and this keeps your makeup from slipping.” When she doesn’t use calamine lotion, Layne turns to One/Size Secure The Blur Makeup Magnet Primer, adding that “not only does it grip your makeup, you instantly see the difference on textured skin.”
The Carnival Product Playbook
- All three artists start with eyes. Layne suggests using an eye primer and prefers MAC Prep + Prime 24 Hour Extend Eye Base, but when it’s hard to find in the Caribbean, she swaps in L.A. Girl Lightweight HD Pro Creamy Concealer, “it really doesn’t move and keeps your eye makeup in place.” Deane likes Too Faced Eye Shadow Primer for glitter-heavy looks. Pat eyeshadow onto the lids versus swiping for better pay-off and stick to powders in hot weather. Layne’s go-tos include Juvia’s Place Culture and Culture 2 palettes because they are highly pigmented and look great across skin tones. She calls Pat McGrath Labs Eyeshadow Palettes her “holy grail.”
- For eyeliner, Deane uses Urban Decay 24/7 Glide-On Eyeliner in Perversion, “it’s very dark, very long-wearing, and great for a smoky eye.” She also likes Inglot AMC Eye Liner Gel in 77, noting that “it won’t come off unless you use eye makeup remover.”
- Before foundation, Layne applies Too Faced Born This Way Super Coverage Multi-Use Concealer and color corrector only if needed. Let the concealer dry slightly, then pat in for maximum coverage. If you see any lines, use a concealer brush and buff up and out to remove them.
- For foundation, Layne uses NARS Natural Radiant Longwear Foundation while Deane likes the NARS Soft Matte Complete Foundation. Many Caribbean makeup artists swear by Estée Lauder Double Wear Stay-in-Place Foundation. Application matters most—Layne recommends pressing the foundation into skin with a sponge or stippling brush instead of swiping to avoid streaks and caking.
- For Deane, blush is all about dimension. She builds color with a cream base—either Pat McGrath Legendary Glow Color Balm or Rare Beauty Stay Vulnerable Melting Blush—then adds a sweep of Rare Beauty Soft Pinch Luminous Powder Blush for a soft-focus finish that lasts.
- After your “base face,” lock it in with setting spray to help makeup withstand heat and humidity. Deane mists MAC Prep and Prime Fix Setting Spray with a brush for a lighter, more even finish. Once it’s fully dry, Layne uses a “triangular sponge to layer powder for maximum coverage.” Deane then sets the undereyes and T-zone with Laura Mercier Translucent Loose Setting Powder, and seals everything with a theater-grade setting spray like Kryolan Fixing Spray or Ben Nye Final Seal Matte Setting Spray. Don’t be afraid to be heavy handed with the setting spray, let it dry completely, and use a mini fan to help speed up the process.
Even with the best prep, Carnival conditions can test your glam. Heavy humidity and scorching temperatures are going to put the pressure on your most long-lasting formulas. Deane warns against heavy powdering: “Too much powder makes the makeup look cakey.” For a long-lasting, flawless look, layer lightly and build.
Expert Tips for Long-Lasting Makeup
Forde’s best tip for makeup that looks flawless for hours, regardless of the heat? Never wipe away sweat. “Pat your face or use a personal fan,” she says. “Fan drying is the most effective means of keeping your makeup in place.”
Just remember—looking good on the road is part of the Carnival experience. “It instills a sense of confidence that sets the day right,” says Forde.
“Historically, makeup was reserved for the Queens of the bands, but now with social media, everyone wants their makeup done,” adds Deane. Knowing how to prolong your makeup look like a pro will allow you to focus on the joy of the day. But Carnival glam is about more than longevity; it’s about showing up fully and being present in the moment. You’re not supposed to be worrying about if your makeup is slipping off your face—and with these tips and tricks, it won’t! So test them out, and you might just find that your glam can go the distance, even in boiling temperatures and while celebrating the night away.
Meet the Experts
]]>Saweetie is currently on a press run to promote her new single "Boffum," and she paid a visit to the Apple Music studio in Los Angeles on Aug. 11. The rapper wore an oversized graphic T-shirt with an asymmetrical plaid skirt, red platform boots, and a black and white striped beret, but not even a chic outfit could stop me from immediately spotting her manicure, which featured an extra-long, square shape painted with a cobalt blue color. Her longtime nail tech, Tameka Jackson, customized the set by adding flower charms to her index, middle, and ring fingers.
Saweetie has really been into maximalist nail looks lately. Earlier this week, Jackson shared a gallery of nail looks that she worked on for the 32-year-old during her single rollout. One of them was a long, burgundy stiletto look, and another featured a white base with large rhinestones glued on top. A separate post shows her wearing long, red nail extensions with tiny dolls added to the tips.
Her deep blue look is just one of many good manicures that I'm sure will come with this new era of music. Read ahead for everything you'll need to recreate the look.
Kravitz’s hair seemed to be styled in a look that she’s worn before, colloquially referred to as pick-and-drop braids, where a small section of her natural hair is braided and wavy extensions are added throughout each of them to almost give the illusion of a sew-in. Instead of using a traditional scrunchie to keep her hair out of her face, Kravitz used a bandana in its place, a fun take on the scarf trend that’s currently taking over the fashion world. She finished the look with a pair of silver sunglasses and a choker, skin-like makeup, and a simple, clear manicure.
Summer 2025 has been all about maximalist hair, proven once more by the trends coming out of Copenhagen Fashion Week. Oversized scrunchies, bows, and even colorful, floor-length braids have been spotted on street-style aficionados, and if Kravitz has anything to say about it, it looks like this trend isn’t going anywhere any time soon.
I have become a fan of the oversized hair accessory myself, and I’ve slowly been collecting everything from jumbo scrunchies to bandanas and scarves to upgrade my look with a maximalist accessory. If you want to up your hair game ahead of fall, keep reading for my favorite products.
I love the lacy detail on this oversized scrunchie, it'd be perfect to pair with a pair of lacy socks.
Thinner scarves like this one from Dolce & Gabbana are great to double as hair ties as well as neck scarves.
This navy bandana is a dead ringer for Kravitz's style.
MC's beauty director, Hannah Baxter, loves her Hermès scarf to add a pop of color to her ponytails and braids.
Bows are a tried-and-true maximalist hair accessory that looks good year round.
This oversized hair pin from David Mallett is a painfully cool addition to any updo.
Lopez shared a few mirror selfies to Instagram on Aug. 11, where she's seen wearing a leather beret and a long-sleeve black bodysuit with sheer, floral tights and strappy, black heels. She looked effortlessly chic in all black, but my eyes were immediately drawn to her nails, which appeared to be painted pink and topped with a chrome overlay.
The singer's longtime manicurist, Tom Bachik, also shared the photos to his personal Instagram, naming them "birthday icing nails" in the caption because of how shiny and reflective they are. "Birthday Icing Mani 💅🏼 for this Chic Mamacita," he wrote.
JLo's manicure is pretty similar to the glazed donut look, which if you can recall (or if you pay any attention to viral nail trends), first went viral about three summers ago when Hailey Bieber wore a pale nail color with chrome on top. The major difference between the two is that the glazed donut manicure—which JLo has also worn a few times—features a pearl base color, whereas Bachik used a light pink color to create Lopez's birthday icing nails.
Bachik detailed all of the products he used to create the look in his Instagram caption, including the chrome powder he used to give her nails their shiny finish. Read ahead to get the full details on the look if you want to recreate it on your own at home.
Bachik started off by applying these medium-length, coffin-shaped extensions to Lopez's natural nails.
He followed that up by painting the extensions with this peachy gel color. Get the look by painting a thin layer across the nail and then curing it with an LED lamp for at least 30 seconds.
This isn't the exact color that Bachik used, but since the real one currently has limited stock, this one's a great alternative since it's a peachy orange that's similar in hue.
To really nail the "birthday icing" look, use a sponge applicator to rub this pink chrome powder on top of the painted nail.
Finally, seal it all in place with a top coat. This handy gel pen has a rotating feature that'll let you release a small amount of product into the applicator brush at a time—this will help you achieve a mess-free finish.
Speaking of: my fall mist collection is—humble brag—incredible. I’ve assembled a mix that takes into consideration all the big, buzzy autumnal trends: boozy options that are perfect for a sexy date night; my go-to gourmands; and fruity mists for that tricky end-of-summer-early-fall transition period. Plus, some woodsy and clean choices for good measure.
GO FOR GOURMANDS
If you think gourmands and vanillas smell like a children’s candy store, think again. This fall’s fragrances are mature and sophisticated with subtle hints of sweetness. I don’t want to smell edible, but I do want to smell delicious. These get the job done.
The L’Occitane Almond Shimmer Body Oil is my holy grail for summer. Seriously, my legs have never looked so sexy. I was over the moon when I got word that the brand was bottling the almond-vanilla concoction and turning it into a hair and body mist. It’s soft and flirty, but has a warm and cozy edge that’s perfect for early September.
A woodsy-vanilla combo is my personal go-to—it adds a little edge to the sweetness. But what I love most about this guy: It’s formulated with good-for-my-skin ingredients like niacinamide and glycerin.
WOODSY AND WHIMSICAL
Nothing gets me in the mood for a cashmere sweater and the lake cabin I don’t have (yet) than a woodsy fragrance. I’m a big sandalwood girl, but I’m an equal opportunist when it comes to smoky, earthy, grounding notes. A woodsy mist is never too heavy, so I find spritzing them therapeutic, like a warm hug.
Coconut can lean a little sunscreen-y, but not this one. Its flavor profile comes from the meaty interior, so it’s less saccharine, more sophisticated. It’s balanced with a creamy sandalwood for a finish that reminds me of a luxe rainforest retreat.
While body mists are supposed to have a shorter wear time, this baby lasts all day long—especially when I pair it with the matching body wash, lotion, and deo. It’s heavier on the santal than vetiver, and I get compliments every time I wear it.
KEEP IT CLEAN
Fresh fragrances are the perfect entry point for a perfume newbie—and when they come in the form of a mist, they’re very budget-friendly. These are safe bets for the office because they’re unoffensive and overwhelmingly pleasant, but still provide that fine fragrance finish.
I’m a longtime user of this St. Barts leave-in conditioner (it has a sweeter, fresher profile), so you bet I got my hands on this ASAP. It’s pretty strong, though; one to two sprays is plenty to get me through the morning and early afternoon. It gives golden hour at a five-star tropical resort courtesy of notes like orange blossom and dragon fruit.
As the name suggests, this guy is basic (but in a good way!). Imagine you just did laundry in the French countryside with rose-scented detergent and left your cotton basics out to dry on a clothesline. That’s this mist in a nutshell.
A BOOZY BOOST
The boozy fragrance trend started late last year, but it’s going full steam ahead this fall. I’m seeing notes of cognac, rum, and bourbon make their way into luxury fragrances and body mists. Sometimes the notes aren’t so explicit, but the scent itself gives a brooding cocktail bar energy.
I save basically $100 when I buy this body spray as opposed to the actual fragrance. And not for nothing: they smell identical and last almost the same amount of time on my skin.
Newness is exciting and all, but nothing hits quite the same as this classic. Its mix of cognac liquor and caramel results in a smooth, creamy, and slightly cinnamon scent that’s ideal for a night out.
FRUITY TUTTI
Fruity fragrance had a major moment this summer, with cherries, mangos, berries, and bananas all getting attention. As the weather gets colder, we’re seeing the next-gen fruits, with a crisp finish, step into the spotlight.
I have been obsessed with this mist since it landed on my desk a few months ago. Its sillage is strong, so a little really goes a long way. For fall, I plan on layering this with a nice gourmand to warm it up a bit.
Phlur can do no wrong. Never did I ever think I’d want to smell like a Granny Smith apple, but this mist is a tart, sour, and sweet treat for my senses. It’s my current favorite hair perfume.
Why Trust Marie Claire
For more than 30 years, Marie Claire has been an internationally recognized destination for news, fashion and beauty trends, investigative packages, and more. When it comes to the products Marie Claire recommends, we take your faith in us seriously. Every product that we feature comes personally recommended by a Marie Claire writer or editor, or by an expert we’ve spoken to firsthand.
Don't gatekeep our newsletters from your friends. Subscribe to Face Forward here.
]]>Celebrities love a bixie: it's great for growing out a short hairstyle, and it's cool enough to appeal to a wide swathe of A-listers. (Some, as you'll see, even combine it with the humble mullet.) Below, the best celebrities "bixies."
Demi Lovato
Soft finger waves are perfect way to style a bixie, as we see on Demi Lovato here. The 1920s-era style works well when there are long layers in the front: the better to form a cascading wave over the forehead and down the side of the face, like this.
Cara Delevingne
The bleach white-gray hair on Cara Delevingne is very obviously a wig (and very appropriate for the Met Gala), but the shaggy bixie cut is a classic. There are tons of feathery layers, which you can see most clearly in the bangs, and the whole thing feels very '70s.
Kristen Stewart
Admittedly, the bixie-mullet hybrid (as seen here on Kristen Stewart) is probably not for the faint of heart. The layers are concentrated in the front with bangs, and in the back with long strands at the nape. But for a daring look, it's still pretty low-maintenance.
Michelle Williams
Michelle Williams is the queen of the pixie, and she's made it an important part of her aesthetic. But very occasionally she'll grow it out, turning it into a very cute bixie. The distinction here is that the front piece are long enough for her to tuck them behind her ears.
Sophia Roe
Yes, bixies can look full and luscious, particularly if you have 4a through 4c hair! What differentiates this from a bob is the fact that the hair is a touch shorter, there are a ton of layers making an ovular shape, and there's some mini pieces at the front.
Ruby Rose
Ruby Rose often goes for a pixie, and no wonder: it's a very flattering cut. But the "grown-out pixie" is a really awesome alternative, as we see here. The back is still ultra-short, with the front pieces fuller and longer. There's a ton of variation in length here.
Heidi Gardner
Heidi Gardner often prefers a bob or even a lob (that's "long bob," in case you're not familiar). But a shorter version with slightly choppier layers and a cool angled front piece looks amazing on her, especially when she flips the ends out like that.
Halsey
Halsey's no stranger to daring haircuts, so a bixie is par for the course. They opted for a blunt cut in the back—almost as if a bob got a two-inch haircut—and the thick, slightly uneven bangs keep the cut from feeling too sharp. Honestly, this is a very doable cut.
Halle Berry
Halle Berry, queen of the pixie, has essentially perfected a myriad of short haircuts. This is highly asymmetrical, with long layers draped delicately to the left side of her face, and short layers on the right. If you like dramatic cuts and a side part—and you've got curls—this might be a good one.
Joey King
Joey King often wears her hair longer, so this bixie is very nearly a bob. But the uneven edges on the bottom and the layers throughout her hair help keep it just short enough. This is terrific for someone with straight, fine hair who wants to switch their cut up a bit.
Danielle Deadwyler
Danielle Deadwyler's curls are shaped perfectly here. This could have easily been a bob, but the shorter length and long layers, as well as the very short bangs, make it look like the bob's cooler younger sister. For extremely curly hair, a bixie is a great way to show it off.
Charlize Theron
Pieces, pieces everywhere! Even a haircut that doesn't have a ton of layering can look piece-y and cool. Being Charlize Theron certainly helps, but the key is to make the ends slightly different lengths, with longer layers in front. Then mousse or water-soluble gel can help separate the strands.
Ciara
A blunt bob gets a bixie makeover with an angled cut. It's a little tough to see in this photo, but Ciara's hair angles up slightly towards the back of her head. It's a much more subtle version of a popular '00s cut, done in such a way as to feel modern.
Isabela Merced
Interestingly, the fullest and thickest part of Isabela Merced's cut is the bangs, which helps the hairdo look full and luscious. Short layers on the sides give texture and volume; if you happen to have thin curly or wavy hair, lots of layers are the way to go.
Kerry Washington
Big, bouncy curls can still be styled into a bixie—just know that there's going to be a lot of volume and you'll need some expert shaping. This cut works well on Kerry Washington, but (depending on your curl volume and density) you may want a slightly more circular shape.
Gigi Hadid
This retro-inspired look is great for both a bob and a pixie. But the front "swoop" lends itself well to shorter layers that are styled vertically upwards. If you don't want something so extreme, just use a side part to achieve a similarly voluminous look.
Jodie Turner-Smith
Jodie Turner-Smith has curls galore in her pretty bixie cut. This is proof that this longer cut is easier to style and less hassle to maintain than a pixie (which really requires regular cuts, unless your hair grows very slowly). A bit of tousled energy is great here.
Agyness Deyn
When you've dyed your hair a cool color, it can help to keep your hair short. That way, it's easier to cut off damaged ends and re-dye as necessary. Agyness Deyn has a bixie with extremely long layers on the top, with the hair at the nape dramatically short.
Zoë Kravitz
Zoë Kravitz has made the pixie work extremely well for her boho aesthetic, but it looks just as amazing when it's grown out, too. The longer layers allow her to pull her hair back a bit, while the bangs in front keep some of that short, choppy energy.
Emma Corrin
If you didn't look at the back, this definitely looks like a pixie on Emma Corrin. But then! The little curls at the nape push this into bixie territory. If, like them, you like your hair short, a grown out bixie is a nice variation and a cool way to grow out your hair.
Janelle Monae
This is such a cool haircut. The swoop at the top is long and voluminous, naturally. Then, the layers get shorter and shorter towards the nape. And then there's a little long piece, curled outward, at the bottom. This probably required an expert stylist to achieve, but it looks amazing.
Florence Pugh
Florence Pugh has never, ever, shied away from a bold haircut. This golden blonde bixie has a touch of the '80s to it, thanks to a touch of gel and a lot of highlights. The side part helps add vertical volume, and there are a ton of layers for dimension.
Teyana Taylor
Teyana Taylor rocks a pixie like nobody else. But when she wears it a little longer, it looks equally incredible (I'm getting throwback Halle Berry, no?). With a little length at the back, this would be even more of a bixie; as it is, though, the volume on top adds a lot.
Carey Mulligan
Turning out the ends of your bixie is a nice way to style it for a more "formal" event. This styling is extremely symmetrical on Carey Mulligan, with the middle part and delicately curled bangs. It looks sweet and airy without skewing too twee, although this might take some time to look so precise.
Auliʻi Cravalho
Bixies and curls are a match made in heaven, as Auliʻi Cravalho demonstrates here. Obviously, the exact cut will depend on your face shape and curl pattern, but this gentle circular cut works really well on a variety of people. The long layers on top keep it from skewing too "Orphan Annie."
Pamela Anderson
As Pamela Anderson demonstrates, a bixie is a great haircut choice for someone 50 or older. Soft, Old Hollywood curls make for a pretty shape at the back (which is longer than some bixies). A wide curling iron can be a nice tool to give the cut life and personality.
Gabrielle Union-Wade
Full, voluminous, and sleek: a big bixie can be a statement cut, as we see on Gabrielle Union. If you're curious what a shorter cut will look like—or, conversely, you want to see what your grown-out hair would look like—feel free to experiment with wigs.
Robin Wright
A bixie looks great on white blonde and gray hair. (It's also a nice cut for hair that's finer or more brittle.) The length remains longer in the front but is shorter in the back; on Robin Wright, it provides face-framing layers while still looking light and breezy.
Nathalie Emmanuel
The very curly (4a to 4c) bixie is a thing of beauty. In Nathalie Emmanuel's case, there may be some highlights accentuating her gorgeous curls, but whether you have natural color variation or go to a colorist, the key is to have a stylist shape your hair.
Emma Stone
Emma Stone shaved her head for a movie and, as such, had an incredible grow-out experience. First it was a pixie, and then it grew into a longer bixie. I love the soft tendrils around her face especially; this is a great choice for a vivid hair color like red.
Julia Garner
When you think of a blonde bixie on a celebrity, Julia Garner is probably one of the first names that pops up. She really leans in on asymmetry here, thanks to a deep side part and a layered cut. It's a really cool shape that feels counterintuitive but ends up looking really cool.
Jourdan Dunn
This bixie cut on Jourdan Dunn is the perfect balance. It's got a lot of layers, but the overall length is short. It's slicked back, but not in a way that looks slimy or greasy. It's piece-y and messy, but not in a way that looks sloppy. Granted, she is a supermodel, but still: this is how awesome the cut can be.
]]>Hudson’s strands remained curly and free-flowing, her afro fanning out like a halo around her head. A slightly off-center side part added a touch of asymmetry to the style, creating the illusion of a side bang. A few face-framing curly tendrils completed the look.
Afros are the perfect one-and-done look and are ideal for people who want low-maintenance styles in their hair arsenals. They’re also wonderful for giving hair a break from heat styles and any subsequent damage that can occur from frequent use of hot tools. However, the ease of styling an afro depends on several factors, like the health of the scalp, the porosity of the hair, and its hydration levels.
I’m personally a fan of waking up, fluffing my coils, and going about my day, but if you want your curls to be more uniform, there are a few products that can make this process easier. If you want to join the ranks of people like Hudson, Kerry Washington, Naomi Campbell, Doechii, and more, keep reading for the tips you’ll need to keep your afro in tip-top shape, just in time for the transition into fall.
A gorgeous afro starts with a healthy scalp. If you've been stretching your wash day (no judgment, I do it too), use a clarifying shampoo to restore your hair's health.
A hydrating conditioner like this one should also be a non-negotiable.
If uniform curls are on your mind, these perm rods—available in various sizes—should be your best friends.
Another option is flexi rods. This option also comes in different sizes.
Another essential for an afro is a bonnet to help reduce the appearance of frizz.
A few weeks ago, she combined two summer trends in one when she showed off a cat eye manicure that featured pink and yellow colors with a metallic top coat, and a month later, she's proving that her love for reflective nail looks lives on with a chrome manicure that's so shiny, I'm pretty sure she can see her own reflection in it.
Hudgens's go-to manicurist, Zola Ganzorigt, shared a short video of the actor's nails to Instagram over the weekend. Her new manicure features a medium-length almond shape topped with silver chrome powder that gives it a futuristic, high-shine look.
Chrome nails have been on the rise ever since Hailey Bieber popularized the "glazed donut nail" trend. The great thing about them is that you can wear chrome nails in a myriad of ways, from pastel chrome tips to chrome with 3D elements like Keke Palmer did during a recent appearance on The Tonight Show.
Chrome nails are also pretty easy to replicate at home. To get Vanessa Hudgens' manicure (or something close to it), read ahead to shop everything you'll need.
This press-on set is under $20, and they come in a shorter length to appear more natural.
Chrome powder isn't the only way to get the reflective look. This under-$10 polish mimics the look of a chrome manicure with just a few swipes.
Get the chrome look with this powder by adding a base color to your nails and then rubbing some of this on top. Follow up with a top coat.
If you're looking for an easier, non-messy way to DIY, press-ons with the same reflective finish are always an option.
A white chrome powder will give your nails a softer, glazed donut effect. Choose whatever base color you like—just remember to cure it for at least a minute.
For her look, Ross chose a hairstyle she has worn before, and it remains just as stylish as it was when I first saw her in it. Her hair was divided into six evenly spaced sections around her head. Then, each section was cornrowed straight back, with the ends gathered into a ponytail. Lastly, that low ponytail was tucked into a bun, allowing her makeup and accessories to stand out.
Cornrows are a year-round favorite, but they move to the top of my list during the warmer summer months, and make a great transitional style into fall. Not only do they let you skip styling your hair completely for weeks, but some cornrows look even better the longer you keep them in. Ross is the latest to showcase the versatility of this protective style, following in the footsteps of people like Tyla, who was seen in floor-length stitch braids just a few weeks ago.
Ross’s version of the protective style is one of my favorite cornrow iterations. That said, the key to a long-lasting protective style is how well you keep up with your at-home maintenance. Keep reading for the products you’ll need to keep on hand for a cornrow hairstyle that's as chic as Tracee Ellis Ross’s.
A few weeks ago, I realized that some people didn't know braid bonnets are a thing. I own several and highly recommend them to keep your braids from getting too frizzy.
Don't love bonnets? Opt for a silk or satin pillowcase instead.
Itchy scalp when you get your braids? Use this serum and thank me later.
When you wash your hair, apply some mousse before drying it to keep frizz at bay.
Whether you have braids or a sew-in, an overhead dryer is fantastic for at-home hair maintenance.
I’ve tried just about everything to remedy my lack of sleep: white noise machines, melatonin gummies, silk eye masks, and even the lore of counting sheep. Same goes with my skin: de-puffing eye creams have been my saving grace, and I’m heavily reliant on brightening niacinamide serums. I didn’t expect the solution for both my concerns to come by way of the same product: Neuraé’s new Harmonie Sleeping Mask, which officially launches today, August 11.
I’ve been secretly testing the neuro-active product (the brand has proven that its proprietary ingredients have positive effects on the brain, in addition to the skin) since June—and I swear it’s made a difference I can see and feel. My honest thoughts, below.
The Formula
There are plenty of sleeping masks and overnight creams that promise to max out the skin’s ability to repair itself overnight—but Neuraé’s Sleeping Mask genuinely stands in a league of its own with proprietary ingredients that have millions of dollars of research behind them. Here’s the deal:
- Gardenia Jasminoides Extract: You’ve heard of melatonin. Probably taken it. It’s often an oral supplement that helps set your body’s nocturnal cycle into motion. Think of this gardenia extract similarly. “It helps preserve cutaneous melatonin and supports the skin’s nocturnal cycle for skin that feels regenerated when you wake up,” explains the brand’s Scientific Communication Manager Pauline Poussin. The TLDR: it tricks your skin into thinking it’s getting a good night’s sleep, even when it’s not.
- Red Indigo Extract: When you’re tired, your skin looks it—literally. Fine lines are more visible, dehydration is apparent, and there’s no rosy glow to the skin. What the red indigo extract does is signal the negative messengers that tell the skin its tired and sleep deprived to stop sending messengers. The result: less signs of fatigue on the skin.
- Epura Extract: As someone with incredibly sensitive skin, having an ingredient specifically designed to reduce redness and calm skin is somewhat of a non-negotiable. That’s exactly what this has done. It creates skin that “looks visibly more zen and relaxed,” according to Director of Marketing Elise Létang. But in practice, I’ve found that it evens out my skin tone and combats any stinging and burning sensations.
The Application
It’s recommended to use this mask two to three times per week, but I honestly use it in place of my daily nighttime moisturizer. I’ll wash my face, put on my acne medication, and then use a peanut-sized amount of the mask, creating a thin-ish layer on my whole face. The formula can get pretty pilly if I put too many serums or another moisturizer underneath, so I’ve found that simpler is better. I don’t like to rub in the formula too much (it will separate and pill), so I recommend just letting it soak into the skin about 30 minutes before bed.
The Results
The first thing I noticed upon application is that my sensitive, rosacea-prone skin is visibly soothed. The product doesn’t have a cooling effect per se, but I do find that it’s comforting on my skin and pretty instantly gets rid of any dryness or tightness. I immediately take note of the smell—it’s a calming, floral profile that’s reminiscent of a spa lobby (think: burning palo santo). It definitely set my nervous system into a calmer state pretty instantly.
That night, I slept like a literal baby. I didn’t think anything of it (just a lucky night), but the more I used this mask, I swear my sleep started to improve. It’s not that I’m sleeping more hours, but once I fall asleep, I’m actually staying asleep. It’s showing in my skin, too. I feel my pores have tightened, and instead of looking like I’ve seen a ghost when I wake up in the morning, my cheeks have a slightly rosy tone to them. In fact, I even stopped wearing foundation this summer. My skin truly drinks up the ingredients and looks healthier and plumper.
The Takeaway
Whether it’s a placebo effect or not is up for debate, but I genuinely believe the Gardenia Jasminoides Extract doesn’t just help my skin relax, but that, paired with the neurotropic scent, takes my body out of fight-or-flight mode, helps me relax, and encourages sounder sleep.
Regardless of whether or not my physical being is less sleep deprived, my skin certainly looks it. I have color back in my face, my skin looks lifted, and my pores look tighter. Even my redness has gone down. I’m calling it a win-win.
Shop Neuraé
Why Trust Marie Claire
For more than 30 years, Marie Claire has been an internationally recognized destination for news, fashion and beauty trends, investigative packages, and more. When it comes to the products Marie Claire recommends, we take your faith in us seriously. Every product that we feature comes personally recommended by a Marie Claire writer or editor, or by an expert we’ve spoken to firsthand.
]]>Doja's hair was styled by her longtime hairstylist JStayReady, who's also worked with other stars like Lizzo, Kelly Rowland, and Victoria Monet. The wig featured short pieces that framed her face almost like a feathered bang at the front of her head that then melted into longer hair to create a messy look towards the back.
To add even more of a retro vibe, her makeup for the night featured bright pink blush on her cheeks and temples, thin brows, the pointiest cat-eye I've ever seen, and a deep red lip. Her nails were also painted bright red with a square shape.
The whole look was pulled together by Doja's costume, which was a black and white, zebra-striped two-piece set that featured high waist bottoms with a v-cut and a cropped top with shoulder pads. She accessorized with two studded belts across her waist, a studded black choker, and earrings.
Doja Cat's ability to experiment and switch things up never ceases to amaze me. It's clear that her hairstyle of choice for Outside Lands was a wig, but that doesn't make me any less obsessed with how the shag looks on her.
Retro shaggy cuts have been trending all year, with experts saying that the messy look is the perfect blend of low-maintenance and cool. Selena Gomez debuted a short-lived wolf haircut back in June just months after Reneé Rapp revealed her new cut in photos from her L'Oreal campaign. Doja Cat's hair from the weekend just serves as more evidence that '70s- and '80s-style shag haircuts are shaping up to have a huge moment this year.
Read ahead to shop Doja Cat's full Outside Lands look.
Give flat hair up to six times the volume with this non-sticky hairspray that can hold the hair in place for days and resist humidity.
For a lifted look, sift some of this onto your roots before tousling and teasing your hair.
This matte formula is worth the splurge. It glides on like butter thanks to featured ingredients like shea butter and a jojoba oil, but you can expect it to stay in place through anything—a greasy meal, a makeout session, you name it.
A color-heavy, retro blush look means you need a product with a lot of pigment, and that's exactly what Juvia's Place's blushes are known for. A small amount goes a very long way, not to mention that these duos are easy to apply and long-lasting.
This candy apple red color is bright and bold, and it's chip-resistant for up to seven to ten days.
Alba’s nails were first filed into a short, round shape for a manicure that is as cute as it is practical. She then opted for a classic French design—a translucent pink base paired with a white smile line at the tips of each finger. A few swipes of glossy topcoat gave the manicure an expensive-looking shine.
French manicures have been a Hollywood favorite for quite a few years now, after the trend surged somewhere around 2020. Initially popularized in the late ‘90s and early ‘00s, French manicures have long been hailed for being equal parts elegant and functional, as they mimic the look of natural nails, while being much more sturdy, allowing that fresh-out-of-the-salon feeling to last for a minimum of two weeks.
Alba joins a long list of celebrities who have been spotted in french manicures this month alone, and we’re only eight days in. That list also includes others like Kylie Jenner and Julia Fox, and I’m certain that said list will have grown exponentially by the end of the month. If you want to recreate Alba’s manicure at home, keep reading for the polishes and tools that will make your DIY project a breeze.
Any good manicure starts with a good foundation, which means that a cuticle clipper should be in your at-home nail kit.
This manicure set has all the tools you need to cut, buff, and file your nails to perfection.
This pink polish from Manicurist makes the perfect base for a french manicure.
A classic white should be another nonnegotiable in your at-home nail kit.
Post manicure, a cuticle oil always adds the finishing touch.
The Water singer stepped out on the red carpet in Los Angeles and stunned in a skirt set from Palomo that featured a cropped, light blue button down and a bubble mini skirt. She wore open-toed black pumps to complete the look, but the most jaw-dropping part of the whole outfit was most definitely her hair.
Tyla's hair was cut into a chin-length blunt bob (aka the haircut of the summer) with slightly-flipped ends—and to really top it all off, she added a leafy headpiece that looks like a chicer, more modern version of the flower crowns that were all over my Instagram feed circa 2016.
If there's any style that's been all over my Instagram feed all summer, it's the bob. From the blunt bob to the French bob, it's been the go-to for many celebrities looking to make a hair transformation in recent months, likely because they look ultra-sophisticated and they're a great way to get rid of dead ends and damage. That's also not to mention that the bob is a summer staple because it's an easy way to remove weight and keep the hair off of your face and neck when it's warmer.
A simple scroll through Instagram tells me that Tyla was inspired to make the big chop to a pixie cut at the top of the year, and this style appears to be a grown-out version of that. If her flower crown hair has inspired you to rock a chin-length cut of your own, read ahead for a few products and tools that'll come in handy for styling.
To get your hair as sleek as possible, you're always going to need a good flat iron. This one has ceramic plates that can get the hair bone straight with less damage.
Heat protectant is a must for any heat styling you do. This one can keep the hair from frizzing up while also protecting against damage from heat tools up to 450 degrees.
For a shield that'll masterfully block out heat and humidity, this spray is your best bet. Bonus: it'll also give you a glossy finish.
Control frizz and keep your hair looking as smooth as possible with this soft, humidity-blocking cream.
To ensure that no hair is left out of place, opt for this edge control, which provides strong hold without drying out the hair or causing flakiness.
Dyed a deep jet-black, Rihanna’s hair is everything that I want once the weather starts to cool down. Her strands, dyed a rich brown, were styled into flirty, loose curls, which cascaded over her shoulders. To give the style a little extra zhuzh, she opted for a deep side part, inadvertently giving herself a side bang in the process. A bright red manicure, a neutral lip color, and soft, skin-like complexion makeup completed the look.
Curls are an easy way to elevate your everyday look, especially if you regularly wear your hair straight or in an updo. Other celebrities have recently been championing the hairstyle, as proven by Meghann Fahy, Lindsay Lohan, Anne Hathaway, and more. As someone who struggles to use a traditional clamp curling iron (don’t judge me), I’ve found the techniques that work best for giving me bouncy, voluminous curls, especially as someone who doesn’t like to heat style every single day. With that being said, if you want to recreate the star’s hairstyle at home, I know just the products that will give you the hairstyle of your dreams.
The one clamp iron I've been able to use is this one from T3. So I've dubbed it foolproof enough for anyone to be able to get the hand of it.
Hot rollers are also another easy way to get curls sans traditional curling iron.
Curling wands are a gift to people like me, so if you struggle with traditional versions of the tool, try this one.
Heatless curlers are a great way to maintain your heat-styled curls throughout the week.
My absolute favorite way to get bouncy, voluminous curls? Overnight blowout rods like these.
Available for $299 (notably less than its competitors), it comes with all the fixings. It’s able to serve as a blow drying, straightening iron, and curling wand—so basically it’s the only hot tool I now need in my routine. The main allure: it has StyleLock Tech that balances the air-to-heat ratio so my hair doesn’t get damaged in the styling process (I’m on a hair growth journey in case you didn’t know) and provides three times the volume of its competitors. Oh, it also has a pause button that makes transitioning between wet and dry sections so much easier. Sounds good—so let’s put it to the test, shall we?
What It Comes With
She’s a heavy girl. The main barrel is pretty weighted (I wouldn’t necessarily recommend this for travel), but it is adaptable with four different attachments. Here’s the breakdown:
- Dual-Sided Concentrator: This can be used for a rough dry (I typically like to get my hair at least 80 percent dry before styling) or to smooth flyaways after styling.
- Two-Inch Round Brush: For a more traditional, bouncy blowout, this is for you. It gives incredible volume, swoops in the ends, and is a great for refreshing day two hair.
- Flat Iron: You can blow dry your hair straight with this attachment and targeted airflow (similar to Dyson’s Airstrait) or use it as a standard flat iron. Regardless, it does the job.
- 1.25-Inch Curling Iron: This is my personal favorite and my most-used of the bunch. I actually prefer to style dry hair with the airflow option (as opposed to the heat) for added volume, but either way, it’s sleek, smooth, and doesn’t give me any crimping with the clamp.
How to Use It
I have fairly thin, slightly wavy hair, and my biggest concern is my blowout looking flat and limp (le sigh). Styling will differ depending on your hair type and texture, but here’s a peek into my process. I’ll take it from the top.
I start off with a volumizing shampoo and conditioner (I’m currently loving LolaVie and Crown Affair), then I’ll prep with a root lifter (Roz is my go-to). I turn on my All-Inclusive and use the Dual-Sided Concentrator to get about an 80 percent rough dry. If I want mega-volume, I’ll flip my hair upside down.
Then, I’ll swap out the attachment for my pride and joy: the 1.25-inch curling iron. I section my hair into three levels, starting with the bottom layer. I grab a section of hair, clamp at the top, drag down half the shaft, and wrap up with the hair turning away from my head. Once the hair is secured around the barrel, I’ll turn on the air function and blow dry it in place, twisting out once the hair is dry. Then, it’s rinse and repeat until my whole head is done.
I brush everything out with my fingers for a more relaxed look, add some hair oil to finish it off, and voilá.
The Hold
The volume!! The lasting power!! To me, these two factors put this multi-styler in a league of its own. My hair looks fuller and more voluminous, without any crunchy styling balms or texturizing sprays. But the biggest tell is that it stays that way all day long. My curls don’t fall or unravel, and my roots remain lifted, which is a result I’m unable to achieve with any of the comparable devices on the market.
The Takeaway
I’ve already recommended this to 10 of my closest friends—that’s how much I love it. Of all the hot air curling stylers on the market, I genuinely think it’s the only one to actually to get curls to hold without extreme heat. I will say it is heavy and I would not recommend it for a weekend trip or big travels (it’s going to put your bag over the weight limit), but for an everyday, at-home tool, it’s definitely worth the investment. And given how much time I spend doing my hair, I’ll certainly be getting my money’s worth.
Shop My Routine
Why Trust Marie Claire
For more than 30 years, Marie Claire has been an internationally recognized destination for news, fashion and beauty trends, investigative packages, and more. When it comes to the products Marie Claire recommends, we take your faith in us seriously. Every product that we feature comes personally recommended by a Marie Claire writer or editor, or by an expert we’ve spoken to firsthand.
]]>Smart stopped by the talk show to discuss her one-woman Broadway show Call Me Izzy. For the segment, she wore her hair in a slightly grown-out pixie cut with a side part and soft curls. Her gray hair also looked a bit grown out or like it had an ombré effect, with the color being darker at the roots and blending into a more silver shade.
It's always refreshing to see a woman in Hollywood embracing her silver and gray color rather than covering up the roots. Over the last year, some of the biggest celebrity hair moments have included bold cuts and color changes like blunt bobs, wolf cuts, blonde hair colors, and soft highlights, but plenty of women have also been proudly showcasing their gray hair.
Kathy Bates wore a headful of silver curls during an appearance on Jimmy Kimmel Live back in April, while Phylicia Rashad stepped out shortly after wearing gray micro braids. And don't get me started on all the women who wore gray hair to the Golden Globes earlier this year.
If Jean Smart or any other aforementioned celebrity is inspiring you to grow out your gray roots—or to dye your hair gray all over—there are a few products you'll need in your inventory to maintain the color and ensure your hair stays in optimal health. Read ahead to shop them.
Obviously, the best way to color your hair would be to see a professional, but if you must do it at home, this at-home dye is affordable and makes the process seamless.
For something a little less permanent, you can opt for a color depositing mask like this one. If your hair is already on the lighter side, this will moisturize it while also depositing a gray color that's meant to last up to ten washes.
Purple shampoos are often associated with blonde hair, but they're also good to have on hand when you have gray hair as well. This one tones brassiness, but it also has a bond-building formula that helps strengthen the hair and prevent breakage.
It's always nice to follow any shampoo with a color-friendly conditioner. This drugstore option nourishes the hair while protecting it and preventing it from fading.
A bonding treatment like this one helps restore weak or damaged hair from the inside out. Just use dime sized amount of it and then leave it in.
A spritz or two of my favorite perfume, or even my go-to layering combination, genuinely sets the tone for my day and is such an easy way to make me feel a little more confident in my skin, while putting some pep in my step as I scope out fellow commuters on my way into the office. Seriously, though, just the idea of someone getting a whiff of my fragrances of the day or even chatting about my favorite formulas provides a rush of excitement that I can’t even describe.
As any beauty obsessive does, I change my products according to the season. As my blushes and lipsticks get darker and more vampy, the fragrances that I gravitate toward become more sensual, woody, and even a little resinous—plus my long-standing love affair with gourmands returns with a vengeance.
That being said, summer is officially on its way out, so I’m looking ahead to fall. As such, I’m swapping out my collection of go-to scents for the formulas that will get me through the upcoming cold weather months. From my favorite aromatic perfume to the unisex option that makes me feel like I’m a part of the one percent, keep reading for the fragrances that are taking center stage in my (very large) collection this fall.
Gourmands Are Back
When the weather gets hotter, my beloved gourmand perfumes tend to take a back seat in favor of fresher, more aldehydic fragrances. However, as soon as the weather dips below 65 degrees, I will be bringing some of my favorite mouth-watering formulas to the front of my collection.
I thought I was over my coffee perfume phase, but I hadn’t yet smelled Bois Corsé from Diptyque. Black coffee absolute, sandalwood, and tonka bean combine to create a scent that awakens the senses (kind of like you’ve just inhaled a fresh pot of joe), but the additional ingredients round it out to avoid it from becoming cloying.
As the name suggests, Montale’s Sweet Vanilla will have you smelling like you just opened a vanilla bean pod and proceeded to dump vanilla syrup right into it. While this perfume doesn’t necessarily have the slight aromatic facet that a real vanilla pod does, it’s everything any true gourmand lover can truly ask of the note: sweet, candy-like, and a little lactonic in the best way possible.
Best Musky Perfume
To know me is to know that musk is one of my favorite notes in perfumery of all time. So, of course, I’ve gone through my collection with a fine-toothed comb to bring out (and recommend) some of my favorites for the upcoming fall.
A clean-smelling musk perfume that I recommend to anyone who will listen is Huemul from Fueguia 1833. Jasmine, tonka, and sandalwood are a few of the notes that stick out to me whenever I first smell this perfume, but it has an almost fresh quality to it that I believe may come from the fact that the musk used in the formula is plant-based. This is a unisex delight that truly is one of those scents that is timeless and can be worn year-round.
If the genre dark academia had a scent, it’d be Blindfold from L’Objet. Tobacco, saffron, amber, musk, and animalic notes are a few of my favorites in this formula, and the result is a perfume that is complex, sexy, smoky, and sits fairly close to the skin, but projects just enough to draw someone in.
Best Woody Perfumes
One thing about me? I’m going to wear a woody perfume in the fall and winter months. I love smelling like resinous sap from a tree, especially when layering with my favorite vanilla scents.
Equal parts spicy, woody, and sweet, YSL’s Babycat feels like an amalgamation of some of my favorite notes in perfumery. Pink and black pepper essence, saffron accord, vanilla, and cedar wood are a few that you’ll encounter after a few spritzes onto the skin, and the result is a sweet, heady scent that will be empty by next fall if I’m not careful.
Lemon isn’t a note I thought I’d find in a woody perfume, but Chloe’s Cedrus Intense starts with a healthy dose of the fruity profile, before settling down and revealing the rose, cedarwood, akigalawood, and more in the formula. The result is a scent that is deep and so so sexy, perfect for snuggly fall date nights in.
Best Fresh Perfume
Though I tend to gravitate toward fresh perfumes in the summer, my love for them can never truly be contained to just one season. So of course, a few of my favorites snuck onto this list, and I refuse to be judged for it.
We all know and love Baccarat Rouge 540, but Maison Francis Kurkdjian has an underrated gem in its collection, and it’s called Gentle Fluidity Silver. Juniper berries, coriander seeds, and ambery woods somehow combine to create a perfume that toes the line between feminine and masculine, but all I can think about when I smell it is fresh laundry that was washed with the fanciest detergent that I own. It’s clean, airy, and a little musky, and it feels as versatile in my collection as a white T-shirt is in my wardrobe.
Pear has become one of my favorite fresh, cozy perfume notes, so I wasn’t surprised to see it in Liis’ Studied. It’s flanked by others like carrot, orris, and ambroxan, and the result is a formula that smells like sweetened, freshly-washed skin. It’s like an everything shower in a bottle.
Best Skin Scent
A skin scent is my secret weapon for feeling sensual and sexy. Even though they tend to sit a little closer to the body, I find that the cooler months allow them to project beautifully. With how good the perfumes below smell, you’ll be wanting as many people to smell them as possible.
From the creators of the viral “Milk” perfume comes Mochi Milk, it’s cooler, more gourmand, older sister. One of my favorite notes of all time, marshmallow, is flanked by vanilla bean and sweet rice milk, making me smell like I’ve just applied my favorite vanilla lotion—except this perfume has much better lasting power.
For a skin scent that screams “I’m the coolest person in this room right now,” look no further than Eccentric Molecule’s Molecule 01. It’s comprised entirely of Iso E. Super, a smooth, woody, amber scent that adds a smoothness to any other perfume that it’s layered with. That being said, it also wears beautifully by itself, so prepare for the compliments to roll in regardless of the manner in which you add it to your fragrance routine.
Why Trust Marie Claire
For more than 30 years, Marie Claire has been an internationally recognized destination for news, fashion and beauty trends, investigative packages, and more. When it comes to the products Marie Claire recommends, we take your faith in us seriously. Every product that we feature comes personally recommended by a Marie Claire writer or editor, or by an expert we’ve spoken to firsthand.
]]>Either way, I know I'm not alone—the fact that the market is stacked with remedies for itchy scalp, flakes, dandruff, and everything in between is evidence. Still, it's taken me years to finally settle on a lineup of haircare products that are not only designed to provide relief from the issues above, but also actually work for me.
My personal scalp care routine has come a long way, but if you're curious about what products I'm quick to grab when dry scalp and flaking are an issue (or if you're looking for some products to try out on your own), read ahead to find out.
Wash This Way
Of course, the first step to addressing a flaky scalp is to shampoo. These formulas are detoxifying and include ingredients that hydrate and lift buildup off the scalp for healthier results all around.
After testing out the entire Cécred lineup last year (including the viral edge drops), this happened to be one of my favorite products of the bunch. The bottle itself has a nozzle, which makes it easy to apply straight to the scalp, and even though it's a scrub (with tea tree oil that detoxes and lifts dirt!), the micro-crystals are small enough to exfoliate without being harsh on the scalp.
Salicylic acid is often present in medicated shampoos, but it makes an appearance here alongside lactic acid to clear away dirt, oil, buildup, and dandruff. The charcoal in the formula also has a detoxifying effect that feels cooling and refreshing on the scalp.
Moisture Boosters
The best way to follow a deep-cleaning shampoo is with a super-hydrating conditioner that adds all the moisture back to your strands. I'll be a fan of these picks forever.
This conditioner doesn't address anything specific for flakiness, but I like to use it since it's one of the best conditioners I've come across for my color-treated hair. It softens my hair almost instantly and even makes detangling a breeze.
I'm a big fan of this conditioner because of its soft texture, but I also love it because it smells great, it has amazing slip, and it's light enough to condition my hair as opposed to sitting on top of it like thicker products.
Scrub It Out
Ever shampooed your hair and then realized after you've already rinsed out the soap that there's still some leftover buildup on your scalp? This would happen to me after almost every shampoo until I finally started using a scrubber while cleansing my hair. The bristles usually help lift up dirt and flakes much better than my fingers can.
This is the scalp massager I use every time I wash my hair. The pointed bristles may look a little intimidating, but they're just pointy enough to exfoliate away dirt and dead skin while still being gentle.
Grab this 3-in-1 tool if you want to exfoliate your scalp, stimulate blood flow, and detangle your hair all at the same time. The bristles are a lot smaller, but they're spaced far enough apart that they won't tug or pull on your hair.
Oil Up
To keep my scalp moisturized, I like to alternate between oils and serums—scalp oils come in handy when I want some moisture but I also know that I'll be giving myself a heavy duty wash within the next day or two (they can sometimes be heavy and cause buildup), while serums are my go-to when I want something a little lighter that'll still moisturize and address overall scalp health.
After taking an online quiz in which I specified my flaky scalp issues, I was given a custom scalp oil from Prose. It's one of my favorite oils to use, not only because it's on the lighter side, but also because it's lightly fragranced and doesn't have the heavy, greasy smell that some hair oils do.
This drugstore spray comes in handy when I'm wearing my hair in braids or any protective style, since I can just spritz some on my scalp and throughout my braids to moisturize my hair while it's tucked away.
Speaking of protective styles, my scalp tends to get irritated with braids and braiding hair within the first few days of getting them installed. To soothe it, I like to apply a few drops of this squalane-forward serum to my head, which reduces irritation and gets rid of flakes before they even have a chance to appear.
Hyaluronic acid is already known as a hero moisturizing ingredient for your skin, so why would it not have the same effect on your hair? Along with squalane, it's a featured ingredient in this serum, which hydrates the scalp while promoting barrier function.
Why Trust Marie Claire
For more than 30 years, Marie Claire has been an internationally recognized destination for news, fashion, and beauty trends, investigative packages, and more. When it comes to the products Marie Claire recommends, we take your faith in us seriously. Every product that we feature comes personally recommended by a Marie Claire writer or editor, or by an expert we’ve spoken to firsthand.
]]>“The outfit-watching at Copenhagen Fashion Week is always a treat, but I'm most obsessed with dialing in on fellow attendees' hair accessories,” says Marie Claire’s senior fashion news editor, Hailey LeSavage, who is currently on the ground at Copenhagen Fashion Week. “This season felt delightfully practical, as only the Danes can be.” LeSavage reports seeing everything from functional ponytail cuffs (sat atop sleek, low buns), silk hair scarves and bandanas keeping flyaways out of guests' faces, and even crocheted swim caps and netted hairpieces over elegant, boho waves.
In addition to accessories du jour, there has been a bevy of eye-catching haircuts and colors. Think: floor-length pink braids, Jellyfish cuts, curled pixies, and more. We’ve also been seeing the classics with a twist. Bob haircuts with an added flair, sleek ponytails with unexpected details, and even the resurgence of the bow trend, updated to 2025’s standards, of course.
Copenhagen’s festivities act as a kick-off to Fashion Month internationally, so if you want to be ahead of the curve when New York, London, Milan, and Paris Fashion Week all roll around, keep reading for the hairstyles and accessories that all the it-girls will be wearing. Plus, shop a few of my favorite brands to get similar looks.
Unexpected Hidden Details
One of my favorite hair trends to come out of Copenhagen Fashion Week is the unexpected hair detail. From a certain angle, you may think you’re looking at a regular half-up, half-down hairstyle or a traditional ponytail braids. Have your subject turn around, however, and you’ll be greeted by giant flower clips, oversized scrunchies, and tiny bows positioned just so around a gorgeous updo.
Bob-o-Mania
If you thought the bob haircut trend was going anywhere, think again. Everything from tucked bobs to curled styles has been making the rounds during Copenhagen Fashion Week. What differentiates these versions from their predecessors is that people are no longer depending on the cut itself to make the statement, but they are styling their new shorter haircuts to fit their personal styles, a key element to consider when thinking about a hair makeover. Think interesting curl positions, tons of volume, or again, a good accessory to elevate the look.
Cool-Girl Braids
Yes, braids have long been touted as one of the best protective styles that offer low hair manipulation and easy styling options for daily wear. However, the braids at Copenhagen Fashion Week aren’t just functional; they’re pieces of art in and of themselves. From bold hues and dramatic lengths to intricate, almost royal-looking styles, the braids of 2025 deserve a mood board all of their own.
Pixie Princesses
Bobs aren’t the only short hairstyle reigning at Copenhagen Fashion Week. Pixies are also having a moment, with street-style aficionados adding texture and color to the popular haircuts. Some are even combining the two styles for a bixie moment, a nod to the trend from 2023 that’s slowly making its return to the zeitgeist.
Jellyfishing, Anyone?
Jellyfish cuts have returned with a vengeance, and Fashion Week attendees are enthusiastic supporters of the trend’s resurgence. Across hair types, colors, and lengths, people are embracing the animal-inspired cut, adding unique elements like rhinestone accessories or a fun color to the style to give it a healthy dose of individuality.
The Fisherman Aesthetic
Netted hairpieces have been all the rage this week, with people using strips of crocheted fabric as headbands, clips, scarves, and more. My favorite iterations of the trend have all provided a pop of color to an outfit, for an accessory that is as fashionable as it is functional.
Why Trust Marie Claire
For more than 30 years, Marie Claire has been an internationally recognized destination for news, fashion and beauty trends, investigative packages, and more. When it comes to the products Marie Claire recommends, we take your faith in us seriously. Every product that we feature comes personally recommended by a Marie Claire writer or editor, or by an expert we’ve spoken to firsthand.
]]>The results of the post-facial high had me hooked, but it was something Dr. Hamdan said that really stuck: she does lymphatic drainage every single day, with simple hand strokes, no matter where she is. That was my lightbulb moment. I realized my entire body could feel as de-bloated and sculpted as my face with this simple addition to my routine. It didn't have to be complicated or time-consuming, just consistent.
Scientifically, it makes sense: The lymphatic system plays a crucial role in clearing toxins and reducing inflammation, and daily stimulation—through movement or massage—keeps it flowing. For me, incorporating a few minutes of lymphatic habits has become the easiest, most effective way to de-puff and reset. Here's exactly how I do it, along with the products that go along with it.
Quick & Easy Lymphatic Massage Motions
I have done this simple massage all over my body—using just my hand—consistently for the past week. I can do it sitting or standing still, and it takes just a few minutes. The best part? It requires no tools or a major time commitment.
I start by placing my hands lightly on my neck, near the back of my ears, and sweeping downwards toward my collarbones and shoulders to open drainage pathways. Next, I move to my underarms and gently massage them, moving on to my groin with the same technique. For legs, I focus on the area behind my knees. For an in-depth visual, Jannell Roberts makes a great tutorial.
De-Puff & Sculpt
Morning face massage is my non-negotiable. It wakes up my skin, carves out my cheekbones, and boosts circulation—all before my caffeine even hits. It initiates the drainage of pooled lymph fluid, making it the perfect first step before the rest of my skincare routine.
The high-technology on this device basically takes all of the guesswork out, and instantly de-puffs undereye bags and reduces the appearance of tired eyes.
Return to the basics with this aesthetically pleasing gua sha that works just as well for sculpting my face as it looks sitting on my vanity.
Dry Brush Time
Before I started using one, I thought dry brushing was something only pilates girls used on TikTok. I incorporated it into my routine pre-shower to stimulate lymph flow and exfoliate my skin—and it's been especially helpful when I self-tan or have been traveling and snacking on one too many salty treats. I do long strokes, always toward the heart.
Don't know what products to get for your lymphatic drainage body routine? Easy. Pop this kit in your cart that includes everything from a body gua sha, a dry brush, and two skincare treatments.
Famous massage educator and esthetician Cecily Braden created these ultra-luxe dry brushes that are softer than their counterparts and made to last. The set includes one for your face and your body.
Smooth It All On
Post-massage and dry brushing, I seal in all that sculpting with hydrating products. I like body serums or firming lotions with ingredients like caffeine, which can tighten skin and improve tone and texture. While the effect is only temporary, it adds an extra boost to my lymphatic routine and leaves my skin feeling silky smooth.
This cult-favorite body cream contains its hero ingredient, caffeine-rich guaraná for smoother, tighter-looking skin. Plus, it smells absolutely delicious.
My eyes are the dead giveaway that I haven't had any sleep. This affordable caffeine eye cream from Inkey List instantly solves that problem.
Ingest to De-Bloat
My approach to well-being isn't just topical. I love to take supplements with anti-inflammatory and digestive benefits—especially around my menstrual cycle or after travel, when I'm super prone to bloating.
Ginger root remains one of the best natural ingredients to combat nausea. I always keep a few from Now Foods on hand.
Vitamin B1 improves menstrual cramps, says the National Library of Medicine, so when I start to notice signs of pain during my cycle, a dose of thiamine relieves everything.
Drain While You Sleep
My routine doesn't just stop when I go to sleep. In fact, during deep sleep, the brain's glymphatic system flushes out toxins via cerebrospinal fluid, according to the NIH. At night, I wind down with calming sleep supplements and overnight skin treatments to keep my skin in tip-top shape before morning.
These supplements, powered by magnesium, promote relaxation during sleep and are yummy to take, which helps me get a restful night's sleep. This set also comes with the brand's Moisture Melt serum, which is a balm loaded with ceramides and emollients for super-soft skin in the AM.
It's a melatonin-boosting sleeping mask that deeply moisturizes your skin, ensuring restful sleep and a soft complexion. What more can you ask for?!
Why Trust Marie Claire
For more than 30 years, Marie Claire has been an internationally recognized destination for news, fashion, and beauty trends, investigative packages, and more. When it comes to the products Marie Claire recommends, we take your faith in us seriously. Every product that we feature comes personally recommended by a Marie Claire writer or editor, or by an expert we’ve spoken to firsthand.
]]>