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I didn't recognize her until I spotted the necklace.

My neighbor was waving at me from across the restaurant, and I genuinely had no idea who she was. The face was unfamiliar—wide-eyed, oddly taut in a way that read as alert but not quite right. It was the distinctive pendant at her collarbone that gave her away. She’d had a blepharoplasty. And it had worked, technically. Her lids were lifted, her eyes were open, her face was refreshed. She just didn’t look like herself anymore.

I went home and canceled my consultation.

I’d been building toward a bleph consult for months. It started the way these things usually do, in the unforgiving overlap of Zoom meetings and late-afternoon light. Not wrinkles exactly, but a heaviness in my eyelids that made my resting face look perpetually exhausted. In response, I did what any beauty journalist with access and curiosity would do. I experimented. Heated metal pyramids stamped across my eyelids (Tixel). Electromagnetic pulses fired through my brow muscles (EmFace). High-pressure microjets punched beneath my skin (Enerjet). All in pursuit of looking—and feeling—less tired.

I’ve always had mild eyelid hooding, or ptosis. You can see it in childhood photos. It never really bothered me. But in my early 40s, something shifted. My upper lids began to actually feel heavier. That sliver of lid visible between crease and lash line seemed to vanish beneath a sagging overhang. By mid-afternoon, I was fighting to keep my eyes open. My dad, who is 80, has watched his lids slowly descend into his visual field, partially obstructing his vision on particularly saggy days. I’m looking at the early chapters of that story, which also includes a subplot: A few millimeters south, my undereye bags have inflated over time, beyond the usual post-salty-meal puff.

When I brought up my situation to multiple dermatologists (see: access, curiosity), they casually floated: “You could always do a blepharoplasty.” Not in a judgey way, but with the nonchalance of suggesting I get my cracked phone screen fixed.

Blepharoplasty—surgically removing or repositioning excess eyelid skin and fat—is consistently among the top five cosmetic surgical procedures in the US, according to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, and interest is only growing. On TikTok (which my over-40 female algorithm has turned into BlephTok), the hashtag #blepharoplasty has amassed more than 542 million views, while before-and-afters and surgeon reaction clips have become their own booming subgenre.

As plastic surgery goes, blepharoplasty is a relatively straightforward procedure with a minimal recovery time. As plastic surgery goes. This is still very much surgery with the attendant financial and physical and emotional tolls. So a new question has entered the mainstream: How close can today’s nonsurgical tools actually get you to that lifted, rested look a bleph is meant to provide? I decided to find out the hard way, with my own face.

Why Eyes Age the Way They Do

The upper face plays a central role in nonverbal communication, with the eyes, brows, and forehead transmitting many of the emotional cues people use to perceive us. We read the eyes first. They broadcast mood, vitality, threat, trust. Shift the position of the eyelids even a millimeter, and the entire expression recalibrates. The mechanics of how this happens are more layered than most people realize. As we age, our anatomy shifts, affecting what our face conveys. “The shape of the eye socket remodels, and the bone breaks down,” says Joshua Zeichner, MD, a board-certified dermatologist in New York City. “Plus, soft tissue volume shifts, so the eyes physically sit deeper within the skull.”

At the same time, the internal “scaffolding” that holds up the eyes—called the orbital septum—gradually relaxes. This is where saggy undereye bags come in. “The fat can protrude forward as the orbital septum becomes thinner and less supple,” says Robert Schwarcz, MD, a board-certified oculoplastic surgeon in New York City who specializes in blepharoplasties. Additionally, “the orbicularis oculi muscle loosens and descends downward.” Dr. Zeichner offers a more visual metaphor: “You’re wearing a pair of Spanx that has loosened over time, and the fat is bulging out.”

Adam Kolker, MD, a board-certified plastic surgeon in New York City, offers a counterintuitive explanation on the puffiness many of us mistake for weight gain. “People misconstrue that extra fullness of the lower eyelid as gaining fat. It’s actually the opposite. The septum becomes lax, and you lose some of the superficial soft tissue volume. When the tide goes out, you see more of the fat pocket and more of the shadow.” And as the anatomy around our eyes evolves, so does the story our eyes can tell so powerfully. Over time, you may have a face that miscommunicates how you feel. You can be wide awake and fully present, but your face reads as disengaged or running on three hours of sleep.

Here’s the paradox: The same heavy-lidded eyes we now rush to fix were once the definition of sex appeal. From Greta Garbo to Lauren Bacall, "bedroom eyes" signaled seduction. The trouble is, the line between sultry and sleepy is razor thin. And for years, my eyes lived somewhere in between.

Why I Haven’t Gotten a Blepharoplasty

Before considering any treatment, I wanted to understand if my heavy lids had something to do with underlying anatomy. So I sent photos to Jason Diamond, MD, a board-certified facial plastic surgeon in Beverly Hills. Two things he said stopped me cold.

First, from the photos, he thought I might have both ptosis and negative-vector anatomy, though he stressed that only a precise, in-person evaluation could confirm either. Negative vector anatomy sounds extremely concerning but just means my eyes protrude slightly forward relative to my cheekbones. Who knew the positioning of your eyeball inside your skull was part of this equation? “Negative vector patients with ptosis are tough,” he told me. “You have to be very careful about how much skin you remove [in a blepharoplasty] because you can create a real hollow look, like an owl’s eye. The excess skin actually looks better than the alternative.” In other words, a blepharoplasty could correct the hooding, but also, potentially, leave me permanently bug-eyed.

Second, and more surprisingly: “More than 50% of the time, an endoscopic brow lift is actually more undetectable than doing the upper eyelids,” Dr. Diamond says. Unlike a blepharoplasty, which removes or repositions skin and fat from the eyelid, an endoscopic brow lift works from above, through small incisions hidden in the hairline, releasing the ligaments that tether the brow to the orbital rim. “Think of it like a strip of Velcro running all the way across the brow,” he says. “Once it’s released, you can slide everything back up,” creating the lifting effect of a high ponytail.

Without releasing those ligaments, even thread lifts don't last. The procedure restores support rather than subtracting tissue, often making it look less "operated on." Maybe my eyelids didn't need anything cut away—they needed support. Plus, my neighbor's bleph result had given me pause, so I decided to see what noninvasive treatments could realistically accomplish first. These can tighten skin and improve texture, but they can't fix the structural laxity behind hooding or reposition bulging fat pads. “A millimeter of fat removal or repositioning, done within an hour in a procedure room, is going to be more valuable than five years of devices,” says Dr. Kolker. Consider my reality checked.

My “Fake Bleph” Treatment Plan

Photo: Courtesy Subject; Design: Mark Baker-Sanchez/Allure

My shift in perspective landed me in the office of Ava Shamban, MD, a board-certified dermatologist in Los Angeles. She was on the same page as Dr. Diamond: “For you, we don’t want to erase the hooding. We want to tighten and support it.” Her strategy involved a series of nonsurgical treatments done both in-office and at home that would target multiple factors: muscle, collagen, surface texture, and ligaments.

Over the next eight months, I worked through the following protocol in phases. Treatments aimed at improving structural support and skin laxity came first, followed by procedures targeting texture and skin quality. Sometimes I was getting one treatment per appointment; other times, we’d do two in the same session. The sequencing allowed Dr. Shamban to assess how my face responded at each stage and build results gradually rather than chasing a dramatic one-time transformation.

One note: The downtime and side effects described throughout this story—many of which were minimal or nonexistent—reflect my personal experience. All of these treatments come with some level of risk, and individual results and recovery time may vary based on the treatment, provider, settings, and the patient’s skin.

1. Muscle Support: EmFace

EmFace is a 30-minute treatment that combines radiofrequency to stimulate collagen with high-intensity electromagnetic stimulation to contract muscle. We started here because Dr. Shamban thinks muscle tone and structural support were the main cause of my issue. After a few weeks of EmFace-only appointments, she added more of the treatments below.

At each appointment, a grounding pad went on my stomach, and two adhesive strips were placed across my forehead and undereyes. When the machine was turned on, my brows and undereye areas would start twitching in rhythmic pulses. “The brow elevators are muscles,” says Dr. Shamban. “If we strengthen the lifters without over-relaxing the depressors, we create upward support.” Translation: Train the muscles that pull up, don’t just freeze the ones that tug down, which is what a neuromodulator like Botox does.

What it feels like: An involuntary eyebrow workout. Not painful, just quiver-y spasms, like your face is doing Pilates without asking you.
Downtime: I experienced no downtime or side effects, though temporary redness, warmth, and mild swelling can occur.
My results: Subtle but real. My brows felt more supported, with a slight visible lift in the outer corners that made my eyes look more open by the end of the series.
Series: 4 treatments, 1 week apart. Full results at 3-4 months
Lasts: 6 months
Devil’s Advocate: Studies are promising, but many are manufacturer-funded. If you’re expecting browlift-level results, temper expectations…a lot.
Price: $1,800 for a series of four

2. Collagen Remodeling: Sofwave

If EmFace is about muscle training, Sofwave is about collagen building. About four weeks later, after EmFace had strengthened the muscles supporting my brow, Dr. Shamban layered in Sofwave to target the skin itself. In a Sofwave treatment, focused ultrasound energy penetrates the mid-dermis, deep enough to trigger increased collagen and elastin production, but not so deep that it melts the fat layer underneath. Around the eyes, that distinction is everything. You cannot afford to lose volume here. Instead, the goal is to make the skin that’s already there thicker, denser, and more supportive over time. “If you tighten along the brow, you can get a visible lift,” Dr. Shamban says.

For similar effects, other dermatologists are partial to using devices like Thermage FLX, which delivers radiofrequency, and Ultherapy PRIME, which uses focused ultrasound, to achieve collagen-stimulating, skin-tightening effects around the eyes.

What it feels like: Concentrated bursts of heat that build and peak, like someone pressing a very hot spoon against your brow for one sharp second. With 45 minutes of numbing cream first, it’s tolerable. Without it? I probably would’ve clenched my jaw the entire time. I asked for Pronox (laughing gas) for the most intense passes, especially over the brow bone, where the skin is thinnest and the heat feels sharpest.
Downtime: A few hours of redness
My results: A visible tightening along the brow line and upper lid area that created a modest but meaningful lift
Series: 1 treatment, full results at 12 weeks
Lasts: 1-2 years
Devil’s Advocate: Sofwave can tighten skin. It cannot remove skin. If you have significant excess skin, known as dermatochalasis, surgery will always be your better bet.
Price: $1,250 for eye area and brows

3. Eyelid Tightening: Fotona Dynamic Pro SmoothEye

One of the challenges with a nonsurgical approach is that even if you strengthen the brow muscles and firm the skin above the eye, the eyelid itself can still look lax. That's where SmoothEye comes in. Unlike Sofwave, which treats the broader brow and periocular area, SmoothEye uses a non-ablative Er:YAG laser to target the tissue-thin eyelid skin itself, triggering collagen remodeling. “We're contracting existing collagen while stimulating new production,” Dr. Shamban explains. “The goal isn't to change your anatomy. It's to make the tissue behave younger.” We added this after EmFace and Sofwave addressed deeper support layers.

What it feels like: Warm pulses that build gradually, similar to a heated massage around the eyes.
Downtime: Temporary redness and swelling can occur for 24 to 48 hours. I had mild pinkness and puffiness during that window, but both resolved quickly.
My results: The skin on my upper lids looked firmer and less crepey, especially along the fold where hooding collects. Not dramatic on its own, but a meaningful contribution to an overall more open, rested appearance.
Series: 3 treatments, spaced 4-6 weeks apart
Lasts: About a year
Devil’s Advocate: Individual before-and-afters can be impressive, but the clinical data on SmoothEye is still emerging. Think refinement, not reinvention.
Price: $600-$1,200 per treatment, depending on the area

4. Skin Resurfacing: Tixel + Regenerative Topicals

Eyelid skin is the thinnest on the body, which means it keeps no secrets: crepiness, fine lines, and laxity show up here first. Thickening it can bring some of those things back under wraps. Tixel is a procedure that does that with a heated titanium tip studded with tiny pyramids that briefly stamp the skin, creating controlled microthermal injury. As those injuries heal, the skin responds by going into repair mode: producing new collagen and strengthening existing tissue to create a thicker, smoother surface over time. At a separate appointment from the treatments listed above, Dr. Shamban paired the Tixel with VAMP, a gel containing PDRN (polydeoxyribonucleotide), derived from purified salmon sperm DNA. Regenerative medicine is glamorous like that. Applied after the Tixel treatment, PDRN is intended to support the skin’s repair response. Research suggests it may help activate pathways involved in tissue regeneration, including fibroblast activity and collagen production.

What it feels like: Rapid hot taps that are sharp and a bit startling
Downtime: I felt sore for a couple of days, with some redness, tenderness, and tiny sand-grain crusts.
My results: The fine, crepey texture around my eyes (underneath and on my lids) was softened in a way concealer never quite achieves.
Series: 4 sessions, spaced 4 weeks apart, full results 4-6 months after final treatment
Lasts: 6-12 months
Devil’s Advocate: Tixel can improve crepiness, but it’s not lifting anything. Smoother skin is not the same as less skin.
Price: $900 per treatment

5. Subtle Brow Lifting: Daxxify

Neuromodulators like Botox and Daxxify can be blamed for frozen foreheads and heavy lids. But in the right hands, it’s precision engineering. The goal of the forehead muscle is lift. That’s why you have horizontal lines. If you leave it alone and relax only the downward-pulling muscles around the eyes, you get an unopposed upward pull, which lifts the brows. Dr. Shamban injected my Daxxify with particular restraint. “If you relax the muscles too much, you lose the squeeze that helps move lymph. Then the eyelid can look puffier,” she explains. Instead of freezing everything in my face, she targeted only the depressors, the muscles that pull the brow down over time. By leaving the forehead elevator muscle active, the upward pull became unopposed.

What it feels like: Quick pinches, minimal discomfort
Downtime: Aside from a few tiny injection-site bumps that disappeared within an hour, I didn’t have much immediate downtime. A few days later, I developed a slight “Spock brow” on one side—a slightly overarched brow that’s a known possibility with neuromodulators and was easily adjusted at a follow-up visit. I, like most people, have natural muscle asymmetry, and those differences can become more noticeable after treatment.
My results: The tails of my brows looked higher, and I could see more of my lids.
Series: Every 3-4 months, full results at 2 weeks
Lasts: 4 months
Devil’s Advocate: This is precision work. Consider the Spock brow as your cautionary tale: One overly arched eyebrow that locks your face into permanent skepticism. On the flip side, if the heaviness is due to skin laxity rather than muscle pull, the lift could be minimal. Plus, injectors tend to be super-conservative in that area to preserve natural movement, so the results are often intentionally subtle.
Price: $900-$1,200 for full eye area

6. Intense Hydration: EnerJet

EnerJet is a handheld device that uses high-pressure jet propulsion (not heat or needles) to push small amounts of hyaluronic acid into the upper dermis. My treatment was focused along the hairline and upper forehead, reinforcing the brow’s anchoring points rather than adding volume to the lid itself.

What it feels like: Sharp, rubber-band snaps. Loud but brief.
Downtime: Mild swelling and tiny, mosquito bite bumps for 2-3 days. Bruising from a ruptured capillary is possible; I got bruising that took 5 days to clear.
My results: A slight improvement in skin quality and bounce, with a subtle supportive effect along the brow
Series: Every 4 months, results are immediate
Lasts: 3-4 months
Devil’s Advocate: The science is still evolving, and I’m not convinced the results fully justify the price. This is more supporting actor than leading role.
Price: $1,500 per session

7. (Very) Temporary Lid Lifting: Upneeq

The active ingredient in these prescription eye drops is oxymetazoline hydrochloride, which stimulates the Müller’s muscle that controls involuntary eyelid elevation, causing it to contract and lift the lid for up to eight hours. It’s surprisingly impactful. “I use them in the morning if I’m tired,” Dr. Shamban told me. “It pops my eyes open, and I literally feel more awake.” When I put one drop in each eye (they come pre-dosed in pouches), my eyes look noticeably wider within a few minutes. Upneeq is the only FDA-approved, at-home treatment for ptosis.

What it feels like: A mild tightening sensation for a few seconds, then nothing
Downtime: I didn’t experience any, but possible side effects include temporary redness, irritation, dryness, or blurred vision.
My results: Noticeably more open eyes within minutes, a quick, reliable refresh
Series: Daily as needed, results in 5-10 minutes
Lasts: 8 hours
Devil’s Advocate: The effects last only 12 hours at most: You won’t see any permanent or even semipermanent lifting, even if you use these consistently.
Price: About $200-$250 for a box of 30 prefilled droppers. Each single-use dropper contains enough solution for both eyes.

8. Depuffing: CARA Multi-Modal Device

I’ve been using the CARA microcurrent device—a wand Dr. Shamban helped develop that combines radiofrequency, electrical muscle stimulation, and LED—several nights a week. Before each session, I apply a conductive gel that helps the electrical currents travel evenly and allows the device to glide across my skin. It hums faintly across the brows and undereye areas. It's not painful, just a steady, almost meditative tickle. Microcurrent won’t replicate surgery, but over time, supporting muscle tone and lymphatic flow can make lids look less puffy and undereyes more smooth. Other at-home microcurrent devices that Allure editors have seen results from are the NuFace Trinity and Ziip Halo, though any model requires consistent use for noticeable change.

What it feels like: Gentle tingling and rhythmic contractions beneath the skin. The device warms slightly as it glides, creating a relaxing, almost spa-like sensation.
Downtime: None
My results: Less morning puffiness, particularly under my eyes, and a slightly more lifted, refreshed look with ongoing use. Subtle and cumulative, definitely no drama here.
Series: 15 minutes per session, 3-5 times a week
Devil’s Advocate: Consistency is everything. Use home energy devices religiously and you may see a difference.
Price: $350 for the device

My Final Results (and Final Receipt)

Courtesy Subject

Eight months after starting treatments (a total of 19 appointments with Dr. Shamban and her team of registered nurses and physician assistants), the changes are real. I’ve actually seen way more improvement than I expected. Maybe I managed my expectations a little too much? No one has gasped or asked what I’ve “had done.” But that’s the point, especially in this part of the face. The outer third of my brows sits slightly higher. More lid is visible when my eyes are open. The fine crepiness around my eyes has noticeably diminished. Friends tell me I look rested. Unflattering lighting is harder to come by.

If surgery is 100%, I’d call this tweakment extravaganza a solid 40%. But what surprised me most wasn’t the visual shift. It was the one I could clock without looking in the mirror. The midday droop that used to make me feel exhausted around 3 p.m.? Gone. I stopped instinctively tilting my chin to manufacture a good angle. I no longer keep a scrunchie at my desk for an emergency ponytail lift.

I still have hooding. That slight droop is part of my eye shape, part of my identity. Erasing it entirely would change me. I know this after seeing a familiar necklace across a restaurant and realizing it belonged to a woman I’ve known for years but no longer recognized. The difference now is that my face finally reflects how I actually feel. And at this stage of aging, that may be enough.

Courtesy Subject

Then there’s the financial reality. It’s a lot. A comprehensive, nonsurgical protocol like mine can easily reach $12,000—and a year later almost all results will be gone. The treatments must be repeated indefinitely to maintain results. (My initial series of procedures was provided gratis by Dr. Shamban’s practice.) By comparison, an upper blepharoplasty averages about $5,000 in the US, while a lower blepharoplasty typically runs around $8,000, according to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, but the final bill can be several thousand dollars higher once anesthesia and facility fees are added. A brow lift, which can be performed alone or combined with a blepharoplasty, averages around $5,500. In major markets, the total can climb significantly. A conservative upper and lower blepharoplasty in Los Angeles or another major city can approach $20,000 once all fees are factored in.

Surgery also comes with very real recovery–about two weeks of swelling and bruising, with most patients returning to normal activities within two weeks. Surgery is more invasive and painful, but “a well-executed surgical result can last a decade or longer,” Dr. Schwarcz says. One thing to keep in mind: If excess upper lid skin is significant enough to impair vision, insurance may cover part or all of a blepharoplasty, though this requires testing and documentation.

I’m thrilled with what Dr. Shamban’s protocol delivered. Her layered approach was cumulatively powerful. The changes are real. I look like myself, only less tired. But maintaining those results is a commitment. I won't pretend the process was easy. At roughly $12,000 a year out of pocket—not to mention the appointments, the driving, the numbing, the downtime, the recovery—I find myself thinking, Wouldn't one surgical procedure actually be easier than repeating this cycle indefinitely? Honestly, maybe.

I haven’t booked surgery. But I’ve also stopped romanticizing the idea of avoiding it. What I’ve realized is that I’m not anti-surgery. I’m just not into overcorrection. If I move forward, I may consider an endoscopic mini brow lift rather than a traditional upper bleph. It’s an option I didn’t even know to ask about before reporting this piece.

More than anything, it’s bought me time to understand what’s changing, to get clear on what bothers me and what doesn’t, and to figure out how to get a face that matches how I feel. Watching my neighbor wave at me from across the restaurant, I finally understood what I was actually after. The goal was never to look sculpted, dramatically retouched, or surgically finessed. After eight months and 19 appointments, the goal is simple: to look awake—and legible.

Note: Throughout this story, I mention the exact brand names of the tools and products Dr. Shamban and her team used. However, many of these technologies are not unique and represent one example in a broader category. SmoothEye is one of several Er:YAG lasers used around the eyes. Other popular Er:YAG devices for the eye area include Sciton Joule and Lutronic Action II. Sofwave is one of a handful of ultrasound-based skin-tightening devices. Other energy-based approaches include Thermage FLX, which uses monopolar radiofrequency, and Ultherapy PRIME, which uses microfocused ultrasound. Daxxify is one of six FDA-approved botulinum-toxin neuromodulators, including Botox, Dysport, Xeomin, Jeuveau, and Letybo. EnerJet is one of several needle-free, pressure-based injection systems. EmFace and Tixel each use patented mechanisms (HIFES muscle stimulation and Thermo-Mechanical Action, respectively) that are more unique to their manufacturers. Upneeq is currently the only FDA-approved at-home treatment for ptosis, with no direct branded competitor.

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Poreless skin with a preternatural glow. Blonde highlights blended so well you can no longer see the individual strands. A nose that’s never even heard of a crook. A hand with individual, intricate tattoo “sleeves” on each finger. Manicures with textures and designs so complex they’d be impossible to recreate. Artificial intelligence has come for the beauty industry, and it seems many clients can’t resist the generative chatbots’ siren song. Experts across fields report a sharp increase in the number of AI-generated images their patients and clients are bringing as inspiration for the service they want provided.

“[Bringing AI-generated images] has become a normal part of the consultation,” says Melissa Doft, MD, a board-certified plastic surgeon based in New York. July, a Leicester, England-based tattoo artist who goes by @inkedbyjuls, says “Nearly 30% of my clients have reached out to me with AI-generated images as a reference for their tattoo ideas in recent months.” While some practitioners are OK with using these as a jumping off point—and understand that some clients who struggle with verbally explaining their vision might find chatbots helpful for translating that idea into an image—everyone we spoke to for this piece agrees that these artificially-generated visuals are largely just setting people up for disappointment.

Many experts interviewed for this story acknowledged that their clients or patients may not even realize they’ve brought something AI-generated, since the online places where people typically get inspiration have become flooded with slop of varying quality. “When I clock the AI, I’m super upfront with them about a realistic result,” Anna Miles, a nail artist based in New York City, says, echoing the general consensus among these pros.

Here, a brief look into how AI-generated images are changing the consultation process across the beauty industry—and where these experts wish you would get your inspiration from instead.

For Plastic Surgery

Plastic surgeons have long cautioned patients against bringing in photos of celebrities as inspiration for their own rhinoplasty/breast implants/tummy tuck. That famous person’s face (or boobs or butt) is not your face, and no amount of amazing (and expensive) surgery will make you look like them.

“Patients arrive having already generated a version of themselves through a beauty app or ChatGPT. They say, ‘This. Make me look like this.’”

So, technically, you could say patients are more closely following doctors’ orders these days. “Years ago, I was the one holding the pencil, sketching a new profile onto a photo of your nose while you watched,” Dr. Doft says. Now, “patients arrive having already generated a version of themselves through a beauty app or ChatGPT, and they hand me the picture and say, ‘This. Make me look like this.’” She notes that some people even come in with a full, AI-generated medical plan, including the procedures they think they need and after-care instructions.

AI is a viable tool for research, but the humans actually performing plastic surgeries know the most about these procedures. “AI generated photos do not take into account anatomic constraints on potential surgical results such as skin thickness, skeletal anatomy for the face and underlying cartilage shape and strength for rhinoplasty,” Dr. Steven Pearlman, MD, a dual board-certified facial and reconstructive plastic surgeon in New York City. “AI does not understand what can and cannot realistically be accomplished in facial plastic surgery.”

“AI does not understand what can and cannot realistically be accomplished in facial plastic surgery.”

There’s also the issue that these generative AI-models are trained to view a very specific type of beauty as ideal. “A generated face optimizes for one thing: so-called ideal proportions [like] wide-set eyes, a small straight nose with a delicate tip, full lips, high cheekbones, and perfect symmetry,” Dr. Doft says. “Plenty of patients love the nose they inherited from their father or the eyes that run in their family, and a generated photo erases all of that in favor of a sameness I see over and over. You lose the individual.”

Both Dr. Doft and Dr. Pearlman agree that patients should seek out a qualified, experienced surgeon who can create an individualized plan. Dr. Pearlman says he does use computer imaging to show rhinoplasty and revision rhinoplasty patients their potential results, but only after carefully examining the patient to see what could actually be achieved.

As far as computer-free inspiration photos go, Dr. Doft recommends patients bring in older photos of themselves or “images of real people whose features feel authentic to them,” saying, “These give me far more to work with than a filtered ideal.”

For Manicures

Although Miles prefers drafting nail art looks with a pen and paper, she understands why clients might turn to generative AI. “AI can be helpful for the client if they can’t explain their concept in full,” she says. She even admits that these programs can occasionally come up with something cool. “Sometimes the computer hits shuffle and makes some valid points, like throwing digital spaghetti at a proverbial wall,” Miles says. “But my imagination is usually better than the logarithmic output.”

“I was relieved they were still hiring an artist to create the work, even though they used AI as a tool to mock it up.”

Sigourney Nuñez, a nail artist based in Los Angeles, recalls one time a brand she was working with presented her with a project brief “just covered with AI-generated photos.” She says it took her by surprise, but ultimately, “I was relieved they were still hiring an artist to create the work, even though they used AI as a tool to mock it up.”

Both Miles and Nuñez say that this type of inspiration creates unrealistic expectations for what a human nail artist can do, but that they’re typically able to bring the client back down to earth after some additional collaboration. Nuñez says she tries to explain that “the inspo pic is just a launchpad” for ideas. “I am not a photo copy machine,” she says. “I am an artist.”

“I am not a photo copy machine. I am an artist.”

Although she’s successfully worked with clients who bring in AI-generated images to align on a manicure concept they both love, Miles says she’s uneasy about the psychological, environmental, and copyright implications of the technology. “I personally love using my brain for creative tasks, but those who aren’t naturally inclined to flex that muscle have now replaced trying with a machine,” she says. “I’m broadly concerned about the atrophy of imagination.”

For Haircuts and Color

Carly Zanoni, a San Diego-based colorist who frequently shares tips with other pros on how to work from clients’ inspo photos, doesn’t mind an AI-generated image. “I love when clients bring inspiration because it gives me insight into the overall vibe they’re going for,” she says. “Is it bright? Soft? High contrast? Lived-in? AI images can communicate that really well.” Sara Briscoe, a colorist in Queensland, Australia, agrees—to a point. “Any visual reference helps, because verbal communication is tough for some people,” she says. “But it stops being useful when the image is so AI that there’s no real texture. The gloss, density and tone are all fake and unachievable.”

“Any visual reference helps, because verbal communication is tough for some people.”

Hannah O’Malley, a hairstylist in Wichita, Kansas who specializes in razor cuts, is vehemently not on board with generated photos and the unrealistic expectations they tend to set. “The AI pictures don’t show real hair patterns or reflect like real color,” she says, noting that this can cause a lot of frustration during the consultation process. “We can’t give clients robot hair.” O’Malley recommends that clients pull inspiration from the stylist’s portfolio; finding looks you like right on their social media account means the stylist is probably going to be able to achieve exactly what you’re looking for. She also recommends Pinterest, as long as you use its tool to filter out AI-generated images.

“We can’t give clients robot hair.”

Zanoni emphasizes that real photos are “the gold standard,” ideally with multiple angles and before-and-after transformation images that haven't been heavily edited. When a client does bring in something totally unrealistic (AI-generated or not), she sees that as a conversation starter. “I usually say something like, ‘I love this as inspiration. Let’s figure out what you love most about it and make a plan to create that feeling on your hair,’” Zanoni says. “Sometimes we can get really close in one appointment, and sometimes it’s more of a journey. I think clients appreciate honesty, and I’d much rather under-promise and over-deliver than promise an AI result that no one could realistically recreate.”

For Tattoos

If there’s one beauty-adjacent industry where the vibes around AI-generated images seem to be particularly negative, it’s tattooing. Of all the people Allure reached out to for this story, tattoo artists were the most likely to bring up ethical concerns—such as generative models being trained on other artists’ work and the environmental implications of using this technology—than pros in other industries. Many artists have explicit bans against sending AI-generated photos as inspiration on their social media and/or booking websites.

“I’ve had clients walk out when I’ve told them I wouldn’t tattoo their AI generated design.”

“I’ve noticed when people AI generate their tattoo references, they become attached to what they’ve received,” says Sam Bradley, a tattoo artist based in Tacoma, Washington who has one of the aforementioned AI bans pinned to the top of her Instagram account. “I’ve had clients walk out when I’ve told them I wouldn’t tattoo their AI generated design, or become frustrated when I’ve redrawn the image they brought in initially.”

Similar to Dr. Pearlman’s concerns about AI inspiration for plastic surgery, tattoo artist Alyssa Stokes says these generative programs simply don’t understand what type of art can actually be done on a person’s skin. “Generative AI does not have the years of experience and proper understanding of flow, contrast, line weight, and skin aging,” Stokes says, noting that the images she’s seen don’t take how a design would work with an individual’s anatomy into account. “It includes way too many details, not enough spacing, and leads the client to believe it is possible when it really isn’t.” Bradley seconds this. “A skilled tattoo artist knows how a design will age over time,” she says. “They have to consider the placement, size, and what techniques need to be used to create a tattoo that stays beautiful.”

“The growing anti-AI sentiment brings me a lot of hope. I think artistry is becoming a lot more valuable to people who seek it.”

Instead of leaning on AI, these tattoo artists want their clients to collaborate with them on a design—and trust them to create something awesome. “As someone who deeply values individual creativity and connection with my clients, [this type of inspiration image] not only takes out a huge part of the trust they need in me to do my job, but starts off my creative flow in an extremely restricted state,” Stokes says. Indeed, many tattoo artists prefer more abstract starting points. “I prefer if they create a Pinterest mood-board, send a written explanation of their idea, and even draw the silliest scribble to describe it,” July says.

“Gone are the days of independent thought, and human creativity,” Bradley says. “Although the growing anti-AI sentiment brings me a lot of hope. I think artistry is becoming a lot more valuable to people who seek it.”

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Tate McRae is (literally) so golden. When the musician closed out her set at Lollapalooza 2026 in Chicago, she didn't just wave goodbye and leave the stage—she took things to the next level of pop-star glamour and dunked almost her entire body in a glimmering metallic gold paint. And we're not talking body shimmer or glitter, though McRae does often channel a 2000s aesthetic in her performance looks. Nope! This was thick, drippy, molten gold, as though she was turning herself into a statue onstage. (Cue the James Bond theme music!) McRae was completely covered in the metallic liquid from her neck downward, even her fingernails, and after seeing video footage of the big show-stopping moment, we had some questions—namely, was this actually paint, and if so, what kind and how long did it take to remove?

So we reached to McRae's makeup artist Kali Kennedy for answers!

According to Kennedy, it wasn't paint at all—it was methyl cellulose, copper, and water mixed into a paint-like consistency. The product was actually made by Blair Adhesives, the same folks who create the slime for the Nickelodeon Kids Choice Awards, Kennedy explains, so they knew how to make a material that would shine onstage. While Kennedy isn't sure exactly how much of the liquid was used for the stage show, McRae's team did use 135 gallons for the gold bath video shown in the Lollapalooza visuals; Kennedy estimates the stage gold bath was about half that size. Kennedy adds that McRae and her team had been talking about the idea for months but weren't sure they could pull it off, but they really, really did.

Surprisingly, there was “no real skin prep” involved pre-gold dip, save for what Kennedy describes as a “healthy coat” of body moisturizer. However, as soon as McRae left the stage, there was a group waiting to immediately wipe away the excess product before she hopped in the shower. “During the Lollapalooza gold bath I was hiding behind the staircase waiting to clean her off and her last choreo move sent gold splatter backstage,” Kennedy shares. “I’m pretty sure it’s still in my hair.”

Getty Images

McRae's hair, typically a warm bronde color, also looked quite a bit brighter, much more golden blonde than brunette. As she posed onstage in her full-body paint, her hair practically disappeared into the molten gold.

And gold was indeed a factor in the overall glam for the evening. “Tate naturally looks so good in warm golden tones,” Kennedy shares of the color motif. “Her golden tan is such a signature part of her look. I wanted to make sure her eyes really popped, so we did a heavier liner than normal, and I also went with more peachy tones to warm her up in a way that seemed to give dimension next to so much gold.”

Kennedy used Neutrogena products on the star (she's an ambassador for the brand), prepping McRae’s skin with Hydro Boost Hyaluronic Acid Rejuvenating Serum and Hydro Boost Hyaluronic Acid Water Gel, then applied Healthy Skin Liquid Makeup in the shade Medium Beige 80 and Healthy Skin Radiant Cream Concealer in Toffee Medium 03. Kennedy combined Healthy Glow Blush Stick in shades Peachy Keen and Pink Petal on the inner cheek and paired Intense Gel Liner in Jet Black 10 Precision Liquid Eyeliner in Jet Black 01 on the star's lids, finished with “a healthy coat” of Healthy Volume Mascara in Carbon Black 01. And though you can't easily see them underneath all that gold liquid, there were also gems applied to McRae's eyes and body for an “extra pop,” shares Kennedy. To say the overall look shined onstage may be the understatement of the summer!

Mielle is adjusting the ingredients in its headline-making Rosemary Mint range.Courtesy of brandSave StorySave this storySave StorySave this story

Not many hair oils ever achieve headline-making status, but Mielle Organics' Rosemary Mint Hair Strengthening Oil certainly has. Since its launch in 2018, it's made news for its cult following, then its TikTok virality, then its alleged hair loss risk. And somewhere along the way, Mielle's Rosemary Mint Strengthening Hair Oil spawned a 10-product collection and nabbed an Allure Best of Beauty award. Now, that entire collection is getting a subtle refresh.

Which is pretty risky business — these products are Mielle’s best-sellers and fear of losing access to the original formula has struck nerves in the past. In December 2022, when Alix Earle praised the Rosemary Mint Hair Strengthening Oil on TikTok for inspiring growth in her long blonde hair, the brand’s longtime textured hair fans were afraid they wouldn’t be able to find it anywhere. Shortly thereafter, Mielle’s acquisition by Procter & Gamble Beauty (which also owns Pantene, Herbal Essences, and Head & Shoulders) made shoppers afraid a reformulation was imminent. And the fear isn’t totally unfounded; it’s happened in the past when Black-owned brands have gotten acquired by large corporations.

Neither fear came to pass in the following months, but then in 2024, TikTok was awash in accusations that the Mielle Rosemary Mint Strengthening Hair Oil was causing hair damage, dryness, breakage and loss. At the time, Mielle’s founder, Monique Rodriguez, said in an Instagram video, “My whole family and myself are avid users of Mielle […] because we believe in the power of our products,” adding, “I am so grateful for the opportunities this partnership [with P&G] has brought us. This partnership has allowed us to expand our reach and make a positive impact in the world.”

That conversation eventually died down, and the line remained at the top-selling list for Mielle. And through it all the formulas across the now 10-product Rosemary Mint collection stayed the same. Until now, with Mielle adding rosemary extract to the shampoo, conditioner, mask, leave in and styling cream, and getting its rosemary and peppermint oils certified by the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew, which validates the quality natural origin of the oils for consumers. Rodriguez told Allure last week that these 2026 updates are not about getting away from past controversies but about new resources available to the brand. “I can understand why some may think this is a reaction to controversy. But, no, point-blank, it’s not,” she says. “Our whole journey with Mielle has been, ‘how do we find the best?’”

A big part of searching for the best is the expanded access to ingredients, labs, and testing a global partner like P&G brings. “Because of the partnership with P&G, it has allowed me to have access to resources like this. I had never heard of Kew before the partnership,” Rodriguez says. “When it was presented to me what they provide, and the certification and quality of ingredients, I was all in. I want to go out here and do research myself. I’m putting myself in the shoes of my consumers.”

As for the formulas themselves, the brand is framing the changes as “enrichment” and not “reformulation.” And perhaps that’s fair. In the original oil and its lighter counterpart themselves, the ingredient list isn’t changing—the namesake ingredients are just being certified by Kew so there is the utmost guarantee that they are what they say they are. “Mielle wants reassurance that the ingredients that they’re incorporating into their products are of highest quality and they’re certified plant material,” says Phil Stevenson, science lead at Kew. Without the certification, “It’s possible that something like an antioxidant component from Rosemary, which is one of its fantastic qualities, you could get from a synthetic chemical. What we’re able to do is verify that it is actually plant material that has gone into that product, and I think that’s important. It’s about trust with your customer. If you’re making a product and you’re telling your customer that your product has natural ingredients, you want to be certain.”

Kew has worked with P&G in the past, starting with a range of products from Herbal Essences in 2020. This Mielle certification will have Kew regularly reviewing the sourced rosemary and peppermint oils that go into the line. It’s not uncommon for Kew to re-validate its certified ingredients, more or less on an annual basis, Stevenson says. “We also can provide accurate information on the quantities, so that we can be certain the product provided to Mielle is not just high-quality, but that those bioactives are at the right amount to be effective in a way Mielle would wish them to be.”

In five other care products, Mielle has also added rosemary extract. Upon evaluating the old and new ingredient lists on the shampoo, cosmetic chemist Dr. Julian Sass, Ph.D., says the experience and results will be virtually the same. “The addition of any extracts in addition to the oils will likely do little to change the performance of the product,” he says, “This new formula seems quite similar to the old one, with a lot of the key functional ingredients like the surfactants [cleansing ingredients] not changing or potentially having small percentage tweaks. Many of the plant extracts/oils here are added for marketing purposes and any tweaks there likely won't provide tangible benefits.”

To further evaluate all seven “enriched” products, Mielle tapped a third-party lab for a set of dermatologist-overseen patch tests on 30 subjects, which were reevaluated both upon application and afterwards, to confirm low allergenicity. You’ll also see updated education around how to use the product like application and washing techniques to prevent buildup. The way Rodriguez sees it, these updates are really just more of the same from Mielle. “This is how Mielle has always operated,” she says. “My philosophy from day one has always been listening to our mavens and hearing what they have to say. Then I take that feedback and use what I already know in my gut about the textured hair consumer because I’m also a textured hair consumer. Science is ever-changing, and how can we stay on top of the evolution of the science behind the ingredients, work to improve, and be better?”

Given the subtleties of the refresh, many founders wouldn’t have drawn attention to it at all. However, “the brand has always been founded on transparency, trust and authenticity,” Rodriguez says. “I trust a brand that is telling me what they’re doing, versus when a customer notices a packaging change and is like, ‘what happened?’ I want consumers to know I’m being transparent and they’re still on this journey with me. I trust a brand that does that, and our consumers deserve that same type of trust.” Mielle has always been a brand that inspires conversation – both good and bad. Whether brand fans notice changes in the product, for better or for worse, only time will tell.

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

Nobody has ever air-dried their hair—or put the finishing touches on a blowout—and thought, You know what this look needs? More frizz! That's why the best shampoos for frizzy hair start working long before you reach for a styling cream or hair oil. "Shampoo is the first item needed to combat the frizzies," says Las Vegas-based hairstylist Gina Rivera. The right formula cleanses without stripping the natural oils that keep the hair cuticle smooth, while ingredients like ceramides, humectants, and nourishing oils seal in moisture and prevent humidity from puffing up hair.

The trick is finding one that's tailored to your hair type: Fine hair needs lightweight hydration that won't flatten volume, curly hair craves extra moisture to compensate for oils that struggle to travel from roots to ends, and color-treated hair benefits from formulas that keep the cuticle sealed so color stays vibrant, and frizz stays at bay.

Our Top Shampoos for Frizzy Hair

• Best Overall: Living Proof No Frizz Shampoo, $36
• Best for Fine Hair: Kérastase Gloss Absolu Shampoo, $43
• Best for Thick Hair: Amika Forget Frizz Anti-Frizz Shampoo, $28
• Best for Damaged Hair: K18 Damage Shield PH Protective Shampoo, $39

Frequently Asked QuestionsAccordionItemContainerButtonLargeChevron

• What causes frizzy hair?
• How to reduce frizz
• Meet the experts
• How we test and review products
• Our staff and testers

Ahead, the shampoos our editors, hairstylists, and testers rely on for smoother, shinier, more manageable hair.

Best Overall: Living Proof No Frizz Shampoo

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Living Proof

No Frizz Shampoo

$36

Amazon

$36

Nordstrom

$36

Ulta Beauty

Allure contributing commerce writer Christa Joanna Lee after using the Living Proof No Frizz Shampoo

Christa Joanna Lee

Why it's worth it: It may have been almost two decades since Living Proof’s No Frizz Shampoo launched (and immediately earned an Allure Best of Beauty Breakthrough Award), but it's never stopped being among the first shampoos stylists mention when someone wants to tackle frizz. "Its smoothing and humidity-resistant benefits make it an excellent choice for frizz-prone hair because it gently cleanses without stripping away essential moisture," says Nicolas Flores, a hairstylist based in Los Angeles.

The formula was updated last year with the brand's proprietary Sili-Clone HairTech, which mimics the sleekness, shine, and slip of silicones—without the buildup that can potentially weigh fine hair down in particular. (Despite their reputation, silicones are often a great choice for dry, coarse, and frizz-prone hair.) Instead, it relies on a blend of gentle, sulfate-free cleansers, while conditioning hydrolyzed jojoba esters and sunflower-derived conditioning agents soften strands and smooth the hair cuticle. "This shampoo sets the foundation for healthy-looking hair,” says Flores.

Tester feedback from contributing commerce writer Christa Joanna Lee

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“Living Proof's No Frizz Shampoo is one of the few shampoos that leaves my dry hair and flaky scalp feeling clean without that stripped, squeaky sensation. Since I wash my hair every day (and my long hair falls halfway down my back), I appreciate that it has conditioning properties built right into the formula, so it helps smooth frizz before I even reach for conditioner.” —Christa Joanna Lee, contributing commerce writer

More to know

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• Key ingredients: jojoba esters, amino acids, marine algae extract
• Who it's for: all hair types
• Sulfate-free: yes
• Silicone-free: yes
• Fragrance-free: no

Best for Curly Hair: Curlsmith Frizz Control Shampoo

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Curlsmith

Frizz Control Shampoo

$26

Amazon

$26

Ulta Beauty

$26

Sephora

Social media manager Bianca Richards after washing with Curlsmith Frizz Control Shampoo

Bianca Richards

Why it's worth it: Because it's harder for the scalp's natural oils to travel from roots to ends, curly hair tends to be drier—and dry hair is much more prone to frizz. That's why Curlsmith's Frizz Control Shampoo uses gentle cleansers that won't strip away the moisture curls naturally struggle to hold onto. Coconut butter locks in hydration, while argan oil, blackcurrant seed oil, and squalane nourish strands, smooth the cuticle, and boost shine. Conditioning agents improve slip, too, so curls detangle more easily with less friction, leaving them more defined and less prone to puffing up. Our tester considers it a must-have in the summer months.

Tester feedback from social media manager Bianca Richards

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“As someone with 2B to 2C curls, in the summer, it's easy for my hair strands to appear frizzier and feel drier than usual due to the intense heat, and I need to give my curls an extra dose of TLC. The Curlsmith Frizz Control Cleanser has been my saving grace in the warmer months for its ability to retain moisture in my hair strands for softer, shinier curls. Unlike the other shampoos in my rotation that are geared towards detoxifying the scalp, the shampoo is enriched with coconut butter and argan oil, two nourishing ingredients that work well to maintain the health of my strands.” —Bianca Richards, social media manager

More to know

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• Key ingredients: coconut butter, argan oil, sunflower seed oil
• Who it's for: curly hair types, textured hair types
• Sulfate-free: yes
• Silicone-free: yes
• Fragrance-free: no

Best Clarifying: Ouai The Detox Shampoo

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Ouai

The Detox Shampoo

$34

Amazon

$34

Sephora

$34

Ulta Beauty

Allure commerce editorial assistant Hailey Roy after using the Ouai The Detox Shampoo

Hailey Roy

Why it’s worth it: A clarifying shampoo isn't inherently an anti-frizz shampoo, but it can be the missing piece if buildup leaves your hair looking dull, feeling rough, or harder to manage. Layers of styling products, dry shampoo, oils, and even hard water minerals can prevent conditioners and masks from penetrating the hair shaft, leaving strands dry and therefore frizz-prone. Ouai’s Detox Shampoo wipes the slate clean with a deep-cleansing blend of surfactants while apple cider vinegar “dissolves residue, excess oil, buildup,” says Flores. It doesn't stop there, though: Hydrolyzed keratin reinforces weakened strands, glycerin replenishes moisture, and conditioning polymers leave hair feeling soft instead of too squeaky-clean. Reserve it for a weekly reset, as overuse of a clarifying shampoo can strip natural oils, leaving hair more vulnerable to dryness and frizz.

Tester feedback from commerce editorial assistant Hailey Roy

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“I kid you not, my super dry curly hair was collecting compliments on its shine after using this shampoo. I was skeptical of a shampoo adding shine, and I was shocked. Because of how clean the shampoo claims to make your scalp, I thought it would strip my hair down to Sahara Desert status. But it did the exact opposite. Most shampoos tend to make my hair feel brittle before I even lather on conditioner. While I was massaging this shampoo in, it did feel dry (I have yet to find a shampoo that doesn't leave my hair feeling dry before conditioner), but it felt less dry than usual. Disclaimer: The end results were far from parched. Another plus: A small dollop was enough to lather up my entire scalp—a win for me because I know this pricey product will last. The cherry on top is the fresh fragrance, which makes your scalp feel extra squeaky clean.” —Hailey Roy, commerce editorial assistant

More to know

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• Key ingredients: apple cider vinegar, hydrolyzed keratin, glycerin, conditioning polymers
• Who it's for: flaky scalps, oily hair
• Sulfate-free: yes
• Silicone-free: yes
• Fragrance-free: no

Best for Shine: Oribe Supershine Hydrating Shampoo

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Oribe

Supershine Hydrating Shampoo

$49

Amazon

$49

Nordstrom

$49

Dermstore

Allure social director Kassidy Silva after using the Oribe Supershine Hydrating Shampoo

Kassidy Silva

Why it's worth it: Frizzy hair has a tough time looking shiny because instead of reflecting light evenly, those raised cuticles scatter light in every direction, making strands appear dull no matter how healthy they are. Oribe’s Supershine Hydrating Shampoo smooths hair's surface from the very first wash with moisture-binding humectants like glycerin, conditioning silicones, and pro-vitamin B5, which soften hair while boosting shine. One of the more unique additions is the brand's Cranberry Complex, which pairs cranberry extract with upcycled cranberry seed oil to nourish dry hair and smooth the cuticle for a glossier finish, while Oribe's signature blend of watermelon, lychee, and edelweiss flower extracts protects against UV exposure and environmental stressors that can leave hair looking dry and lackluster.

Tester feedback from social director Kassidy Silva

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“If there is a drop of humidity in the air, my hair begins to frizz. One of the best combatants in my arsenal is the Oribe Supershine Hydrating Shampoo. I give my hair a good scrub in the morning, followed up with a good dollop of conditioner, and finish it off with a leave-in conditioner after I've dried my hair, usually the Oribe Supershine Light Moisturizing Leave-In Hair Cream or the RŌZ Milk Hair Serum.” —Kassidy Silva, social director

More to know

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• Key ingredients: glycerin, silicones, pro-vitamin B5, Cranberry Compex (cranberry extract, upcycled cranberry seed oil), Oribe Signature Complex (watermelon, lychee, and edelweiss flower extracts)
• Who it's for: people with dull, coarse, or thick hair
• Sulfate-free: yes
• Silicone-free: yes
• Fragrance-free: no

Best for Fine Hair: Kérastase Gloss Absolu Shampoo

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Kérastase

Gloss Absolu Shampoo

$43

Amazon

$43

Sephora

Allure senior staff writer Elizabeth Gulino after using the Kérastase Gloss Absolu Shampoo

Elizabeth Gulino

Why it's worth it: People with fine hair often have lots of wisps around the hairline and part; because each strand is so lightweight, it's more easily lifted by humidity and static. So, if your flyaways have a mind of their own, Kérastase’s Gloss Absolu Shampoo is our stylists’ “go-to for achieving softer, shinier, more manageable hair,” says Flores. It contains hyaluronic acid that floods strands with moisture to keep the cuticle smooth and hydrated, while glycolic acid smooths the hair's surface to reduce frizz and amplify shine. Wild rose oil, rich in vitamins A, C, and E, adds softness and gloss, while the sulfate-based formula lathers extra nicely to clarify the scalp. “This shampoo will bring your hair back to life in just a few washes without adding extra weight to fine, fragile hair,” says Taylor Murphy, a hairstylist based in Raleigh, North Carolina.

Tester feedback from senior staff writer Elizabeth Gulino

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“I would like to personally thank whoever formulated Kérastase's Gloss Absolu line because wow, did it actually help with my frizz and dryness. The first time I used both the shampoo and conditioner was on a Friday before heading out to dinner with friends—usually, when I air dry my wavy hair, I'll add in a few curls with a curling iron to try and tame any frizz with heat. But after using Kérastase's Gloss Absolu Shampoo and Conditioner I didn't even need to plug in any hot tools, my hair was good to go as-is. The citrus-y floral scent of the products is a major plus, too, and made my shower smell like a spa. I have a feeling I'll go through these products fairly quickly.” —Elizabeth Gulino, senior staff writer

More to know

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• Key ingredients: hyaluronic acid, glycolic acid, wild rose oil, vitamins A, C, and E
• Who it's for: people with fine or medium hair
• Sulfate-free: no
• Silicone-free: yes
• Fragrance-free: no

Best for Dry Hair: Nécessaire The Shampoo

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Nécessaire

The Shampoo

$32

Amazon

$32

Nordstrom

$32

Sephora

Allure contributing commerce editor Deanna Pai after using the Nécessaire The Shampoo and Conditioner

Deanna Pai

Why it's worth it: Because dry hair has a harder time keeping its cuticle smooth, it's also more likely to frizz at the first sign of humidity. Nécessaire’s The Shampoo starts at the source: a well-moisturized scalp creates a better environment for healthier-looking hair. The sulfate-free shampoo packs in niacinamide to support the scalp barrier, hyaluronic acid and glycerin to draw in moisture, plus aloe vera and panthenol to soothe and soften. One ingredient you don't often see in shampoo is ApiScalp, a celery seed-derived active designed to soothe dryness and support a healthier scalp environment. The 2022 Best of Beauty Award winner is also fragrance-free and accepted by the National Eczema Association, meaning it meets high standards for ingredients that are less likely to irritate sensitive skin—a big plus if your dry scalp gets itchy, tight, or reactive.

Tester feedback from contributing commerce editor Deanna Pai

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“This shampoo and conditioner hit it out of the park for both my scalp and my hair. For one, they're among the few formulas that don't dry out my scalp and cause flakes. The same goes for my hair: Together, they leave it soft, shiny, and clean, but never straw-like—which is especially noteworthy since I'm a daily hair-washer.” —Deanna Pai, contributing commerce editor

More to know

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• Key ingredients: hyaluronic acid, niacinamide, panthenol
• Who it's for: all hair types, sensitive scalps
• Sulfate-free: yes
• Silicone-free: yes
• Fragrance-free: yes

Best Sulfate-Free: RŌZ Foundation Shampoo

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RÔZ

Foundation Shampoo

$39

Amazon

$39

Nordstrom

$39

Sephora

Allure senior commerce director Shanna Shipin after using the RŌZ Foundation Shampoo and Conditioner

Shanna Shipin

Why it's worth it: Living up to its name, RŌZ’s Foundation Shampoo is designed to create the ideal starting point for healthier-looking hair. The sulfate- and silicone-free formula gently washes away buildup while a trio of ceramides reinforces the hair barrier, smooths the cuticle, and seals in moisture. The 2023 Allure Best of Beauty Award-winner in our Clean category also contains pea peptides that strengthen strands, while grape vine sap, grape fruit extract, and ginger root extract provide antioxidant support to keep hair looking healthy and vibrant. It leaves hair feeling clean, soft, and bouncy, making it especially well-suited for anyone trying to tame frizz without sacrificing natural movement.

Tester feedback from senior commerce director Shanna Shipin

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“I first fell in love with Rōz's shampoo from the bottle alone, but next came the scent—when do you ever get ginger and frankincense in your hair care?! It's cleansing without stripping my already-dry curly hair, which ultimately helps ward off frizz. Plus, I find that it lathers really nicely compared to other 'clean' shampoo products." —Shanna Shipin, senior commerce director

More to know

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• Key ingredients: coconut-based surfactants, peptides, ceramides
• Who it's for: fine hair types, color-treated hair
• Sulfate-free: yes
• Silicone-free: yes
• Fragrance-free: no

Best for Thick Hair: Amika Forget Frizz Anti-Frizz Shampoo

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Amika

Forget Frizz Anti-Frizz Shampoo

$28

Amazon

$28

Ulta Beauty

$28

Sephora

Why it's worth it: Amika's Forget Frizz Anti-Frizz Shampoo uses heat-activated smoothing technology that works with your blow-dryer to create a lightweight, humidity-resistant veil over the hair cuticle. (In other words, try another option if you’re air-drying.) By helping keep excess moisture from penetrating the hair shaft—a major cause of frizz—it leaves thick hair looking sleeker and smoother long after styling. Water lily extract tames frizz and improves manageability, while aloe leaf juice boosts shine and retains moisture. The brand's signature sea buckthorn oil, naturally rich in fatty acids, antioxidants, and vitamins, nourishes the cuticle, while lightweight silicones seal everything in for a glossy, polished finish. "Its texture is slightly on the richer side, so it's amazing for thicker hair because it locks moisture," says Murphy. "Plus, it smells incredible."

More to know

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• Key ingredients: water lily extract, silicone, sea buckthorn oil
• Who it's for: people with medium-to-thick, coarse, wavy, or coily hair types prone to frizz
• Sulfate-free: yes
• Silicone-free: no
• Fragrance-free: no

Best for Damaged Hair: K18 Damage Shield PH Protective Shampoo

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K18

Damage Shield pH Protective Shampoo

$39

Amazon

$39

Sephora

Why it's worth it: If there's one brand that's become synonymous with repairing damaged hair, it's K18. The biotech-powered brand is best known for its patented K18Peptide, which repairs damaged hair from within rather than just masking surface damage. Its Damage Shield pH Protective Shampoo takes a similarly science-backed approach to frizz, using a pH that's close to hair's naturally slightly acidic state to keep the cuticle compact during washing. “That means less swelling, less humidity sneaking into the hair shaft, and ultimately smoother, shinier strands,” says Flores.

More to know

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• Key ingredients: K18Peptide, panthenol, glycerin
• Who it's for: people with frizzy hair caused by damaged hair
• Sulfate-free: no
• Silicone-free: no
• Fragrance-free: no

Best for Color-Treated Hair: Redken Frizz Dismiss Shampoo

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Redken

Frizz Dismiss Sulfate-Free Shampoo

$29

Amazon

$29

Ulta Beauty

Why it's worth it: Treating frizz isn't just a matter of smoothing hair—by keeping the cuticle smooth and compact, color-treated hair is better able to hold onto its pigment, so your shade stays vibrant for longer. Redken’s Frizz Dismiss Shampoo is free of both sulfates and sodium chloride (a common thickening agent), so it cleanses without stripping away the natural oils that keep colored hair vibrant, says Murphy. Meanwhile, smoothing silicones seal the cuticle to lock out humidity, tame frizz, and boost shine, while lightweight babassu oil replenishes moisture, leaving color-treated strands softer, silkier, and less prone to the dryness that often comes with chemical processing.

More to know

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• Key ingredients: babassu oil
• Who it's for: all hair types, color-treated hair
• Sulfate-free: yes
• Silicone-free: no
• Fragrance-free: no

Frequently Asked Questions

What causes frizzy hair?

Chances are, the roots of your frizziness stem from multiple factors, but one of the biggest culprits is a lack of moisture. In its simplest definition, frizz occurs when the outermost cuticle layer of the hair shaft is misaligned, creating a jagged appearance. What causes this misalignment, according to Seattle-based hairstylist Jen Atkin, is your hair trying to replenish moisture by absorbing it from the air. "So making sure you're conditioning and masking will help your hair combat that and leave it moisturized without wanting to absorb the moisture outside," she previously told Allure.

How to reduce frizz

Frizz isn't permanent, so there are quite a few ways to address frizzy strands. According to Shelly Aguirre, a hairstylist based in Chicago, frizzy hair is often dry, so moisturization is essential. The best shampoos for frizzy hair target dryness and contain "naturally hydrating ingredients that will smooth the hair shaft but not overly weigh the hair down," New York City-based hairstylist and colorist Paul Labrecque tells Allure.

More specifically, you'll want to look for hair products that contain natural oils (such as argan and coconut), shea butter, and aloe vera, all of which, per Labrecque, "help to smooth and tame frizz while gently hydrating and cleansing the hair." Conversely, every hair pro we spoke to advised steering clear of shampoos with sulfates, which can strip your strands of essential oils and dry them out (spoiler alert: It’s a big no-no when it comes to wrangling frizz).

Meet the experts

• Shelly Aguirre, a hairstylist at Maxine Salon in Chicago
• Jen Atkin, a hairstylist and founder of Ouai and Mane based in Seattle
• Nicolas Flores, a hairstylist and co-founder of Flore Los Angeles based in Los Angeles
• Paul Labrecque, a hairstylist and colorist and founder of the Paul Labrecque Salon and Skincare Spa based in New York City
• Taylor Murphy, a hairstylist based in Raleigh, North Carolina
• Gina Rivera, hair artist and founder of Phenix Salon Suites based in Las Vegas

How we test and review products

We always enlist a range of testers for our makeup vertical, but hair-care products and tools are another story. While there are certainly products that can be used across different hair textures, lengths, curl patterns, thicknesses, colors (natural and unnatural), and needs, hair products are often created with specific consumers in mind. Many are created in order to address a concern (dandruff, breakage, brittleness) or to work most effectively for a specific hair type (4C curls, wavy hair, gray hair). You wouldn’t want to pick up a purple shampoo that’s only been reviewed by someone with, say, auburn hair, or a diffuser that’s never been tested by anyone with curls—right?

For our review of the best shampoos for frizzy hair, we enlisted the help of multiple editors, writers, contributors, and hair stylists—who all deal with frizz and would like sleeker results. Testers considered performance across four primary categories: efficacy, texture and experience, fragrance, and packaging. For more on what's involved in our reporting, check out our complete reviews process and methodology page.

Our staff and testers

A beauty product is a personal purchase. You might be searching for a face cream to address persistent dryness or a new nail product to add to your Sunday self-care routine; you may simply be browsing around for the latest launches to hit the hair market. No matter what you seek or your individual needs and concerns, Allure wants to ensure that you love anything we recommend in our stories. We believe that having a diverse team of writers and editors—in addition to the wide range of outside testers and industry experts we regularly call upon—is essential to reaching that goal.

After all, can we really say a skin-care product is the "best" for people over 50 if the only testers we’ve solicited opinions from folks who have yet to hit 30? Can we honestly deem a high-end diffuser worthy of your hard-earned cash if it’s never been tested on curls? We’re proud that our staff spans a wide range of ages, skin tones, hair textures, genders, and backgrounds, which means that we are able to fairly assess any beauty product that comes into the beauty closet.

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

The best conditioners for fine hair can make all the difference in giving you soft, hydrated, and voluminous hair without the weight. But finding the right one can be tricky. Some formulas overdo the moisture and leave hair limp, while skipping conditioner altogether leads to dryness, tangles, and breakage. Just like shampoos for fine hair, it pays to be selective.

“While fine hair has a smaller fiber and absorbs products differently, it still craves the same essential nourishment as any other hair type—which comes down to the right mix of ingredients and how they’re distributed throughout your hair,” says Julie Dickson, a hairstylist based in New York City. “You want to avoid oversaturating and weighing the hair down.” It's important to strike the perfect balance: moisturize dry hair without buildup, strengthen without stiffness, and add body without the grease factor.

Our Top Conditioners for Fine Hair

• Best Overall: Rōz Foundation Conditioner, $39
• Best for Curly Hair: Pattern Lightweight Conditioner, $29
• Best for Damaged Hair: K18 Damage Shield Protective Conditioner, $39
• Best Fragrance-Free: Seen Fragrance-Free Conditioner, $32

Frequently Asked QuestionsAccordionItemContainerButtonLargeChevron

• What makes the best conditioner for fine hair?
• Should people with fine hair not use conditioner?
• How do you rehydrate fine hair?
• Meet the experts
• How we test and review products
• Our staff and testers

We’ve asked hairstylists to share their expert picks for the best conditioners for fine hair—so you can finally find the right one for your hair type.

Best Overall: Rōz Foundation Conditioner

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RŌZ

Foundation Conditioner

$39

Amazon

$42

Nordstrom

$42

Sephora

Allure contributing commerce editor Deanna Pai after using the Roz Foundation Conditioner

Deanna Pai

Why we love it: When celebrity stylist Mara Roszak—whose A-list clients like Emma Stone, Olivia Wilde, and Zoe Saldana keep her on speed dial—launched her first hair-care line, we knew it would be a game-changer. And sure enough, it didn’t just deliver; it also snagged a 2023 Best of Beauty Award. “The Rōz Foundation Conditioner is exactly what it sounds like: foundational." says Dickson. “It’s perfectly balanced—lightweight but hydrating, strengthening but never heavy.” The sulfate-free shampoo also has walnut oil, packed with omega-3 fatty acids that help strengthen strands and shield hair from damage, keeping it healthier and more resilient. “It works beautifully on both virgin and color-treated hair, providing instant nourishment while supporting long-term repair,” says Dickson.

Tester feedback from contributing commerce editor Deanna Pai

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“My 2B to 2C hair is fine but dense, so I ask a lot of my conditioner: frizz control and smoothing, but not too heavy. (I’m like Goldilocks, the hair edition.) This conditioner walks the line beautifully, with enough moisture to keep frizz to a minimum while still leaving my curls voluminous and defined, even at the crown where it otherwise tends to fall flat. Plus, I love the pump bottle, which just looked really nice in my shower and made it feel luxurious to dispense.” —Deanna Pai, contributing commerce editor

More to know

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• Key ingredients: ceramides, pea peptide, walnut seed extract, ginger root extract
• Fragrance-free: no
• Silicone-free: yes

Best for Volumizing: Virtue Full Volumizing Conditioner

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Virtue

Full Volumizing Conditioner

$44

Amazon

$44

Nordstrom

$44

Dermstore

Allure contributing commerce writer Christa Joanna Lee after using the Virtue Full Volumizing Conditioner

Christa Joanna Lee

Why we love it: At Allure HQ, Virtue is always top of mind for its cutting-edge approach to hair care—and the pros agree when it comes to this Best of Beauty Award winner. “Virtue’s Full Conditioner is designed to deliver volume, strength, and lightweight hydration to fine hair—all without sulfates, parabens, or silicones,” says Kristina Maccaro, a colorist based in Jersey City, New Jersey. The brand’s proprietary Alpha Keratin 60k is a protein that repairs and strengthens hair from the inside out. It’s also infused with hydrolyzed quinoa to lock in moisture and biotin to support overall hair health. “In my opinion, the formula works best for anyone with fine hair looking to prioritize volume over adding intense hydration,” says Maccaro. This is a great daily conditioner for fine hair, but “for people looking for extra moisture or to repair very dry or damaged hair, they may need to incorporate an additional deep-conditioning mask or treatment,” says Maccaro.

Tester feedback from contributing commerce writer Christa Joanna Lee

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“Virtue has completely redefined my expectations on what my in-shower hair products should do. The Full Volumizing Conditioner gives me all the slip and softness I want for easy detangling, but it never leaves my hair feeling flat or lifeless. The texture is everything—it's not so rich that it weighs my fine hair down, but not so lightweight that it feels like it's not absorbing anything. The biggest difference shows up at my roots and ends: My roots keep their lift while my ends stay soft, smooth, and less frizzy." —Christa Joanna Lee, contributing commerce writer

More to know

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• Key ingredients: phospholipids, pink pomelo, artichoke leaf
• Fragrance-free: no
• Silicone-free: no

Best for Frizzy Hair: Ouai Fine Hair Conditioner

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Ouai

Fine Hair Conditioner

$32

Amazon

$32

Ulta Beauty

$32

Sephora

Why we love it: Maccaro often reaches for Ouai’s Fine Hair Conditioner when people with fine hair sit in her chair. “It enhances softness, adds body, and boosts shine—without the heavy residue most conditioners leave behind,” she says, adding that her clients notice a difference after one or two washes. Its efficacy comes from a combo of biotin to strengthen, keratin to smooth, and chia seed oil to deeply hydrate, yet keeping strands airy. The pros also love it for its texture: “It’s so creamy but lightweight, and it moves easily through your hair and cleanly rinses,” she says. Plus, the addictive scent—which founder Jen Atkin named after Mercer Street in New York City—"is subtle and isn’t overpowering after your hair is styled," says Maccaro.

More to know

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• Key ingredients: biotin, hydrolyzed keratin, chia seed oil
• Fragrance-free: no
• Silicone-free: no

Best for Oily Hair: Kérastase Spécifique Fondant Densité

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Kérastase

Spécifique Fondant Densité

$50

Amazon

$50

Sephora

Why we love it: If you're worried that conditioner will make limp, oil-prone hair look greasy even faster, reach for a lightweight formula like Kérastase’s Spécifique Fondant Densité instead of a buttery one. Glycerin helps keep hair hydrated, while lightweight conditioning polymers and ceramides smooth the hair cuticle and reduce tangles without the rich, heavy feel of more emollient formulas. “It’s lightweight enough to hydrate exactly where fine hair needs it, yet maintains body,” says Kenna Kennor, a hairstylist based in Brooklyn, New York. It also has a familiar skin-care ingredient, salicylic acid, to dissolve excess sebum and product buildup on the hair. “If you have an oily scalp, make sure to focus your conditioner on your mid-lengths to ends only,” says Kennor.

Tester feedback from contributing commerce writer Christa Joanna Lee

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“My long hair has been shedding more than usual lately, so these days I'm doing everything I can to hold on to whatever volume I have left. My scalp and hair are also a bit of a mystery these days—it swings between oily and dry—so I'm particular about conditioner. If it's too slippery and my hair’s going through an oily phase, it almost feels like it slides right off my hair instead of actually conditioning it. This one has just enough weight to smooth through my lengths without tugging, but it's still lightweight enough that my hair never feels limp or gets greasy faster. My ends feel soft, my hair looks refreshed, and my thinning hair looks a little fuller thanks to the way it plumps each strand without leaving behind any crunch.” —Christa Joanna Lee, contributing commerce writer

More to know

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• Key ingredients: salicylic acid, ceramides, glycerin
• Fragrance-free: no
• Silicone-free: no

Best for Curly Hair: Pattern Lightweight Conditioner

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Pattern

Lightweight Conditioner

$29

Amazon

$29

Nordstrom

$29

Sephora

Why we love it: Fine, curly hair can feel like it's asking for the impossible: Curls naturally crave moisture, but fine strands are easily weighed down by rich conditioners. Pattern’s Lightweight Conditioner strikes that delicate balance (we'd expect nothing less from curly queen Tracee Ellis Ross' brand). Specifically formulated for fine curls, the silicone-free formula pairs glycerin, panthenol, lightweight conditioning agents, and coconut oil to hydrate and detangle, while preserving movement and bounce. Irish moss helps keep curls soft and moisturized, while biotin conditions the hair. “It never drags down the curl pattern or flattens the root,” says Kennor. If your curls don't need a full shampoo, this conditioner also doubles as a lightweight co-wash.

More to know

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• Key ingredients: glycerin, coconut oil, Irish moss, biotin, panthenol, aloe vera
• Fragrance-free: no
• Silicone-free: yes

Best for Damaged Hair: K18 Damage Shield Protective Conditioner

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K18

Damage Shield Protective Conditioner

$39

Amazon

$39

Sephora

Why we love it: Fine hair is often more vulnerable to everyday damage—because each strand has a smaller diameter, routine brushing, heat styling, and even tight ponytails can lead to breakage more quickly than with thicker hair. K18’s Damage Shield Protective Conditioner, a 2024 Allure Best of Beauty Award winner, utilizes the brand's signature K18Peptide to replenish proteins, while a fortifying ceramide blend smooths the cuticle and reinforces weak spots. A biotech-derived polysaccharide also shields strands from pollution and other environmental aggressors. "It's repairing at the strand level, not just coating things, so the hair feels genuinely stronger," says Kennor. You might assume a reparative formula like this would feel heavy, but lightweight sweet almond and jojoba oils soften and detangle without weighing fine hair down.

Editor tip

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Spend a lot of time outdoors? This conditioner also protects your hair from UV damage for up to three days.

More to know

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• Key ingredients: K18peptide, ceramides, biotech-derived polysaccharide jojoba esters, jojoba oil, sweet almond oil
• Fragrance-free: no
• Silicone-free: yes

Best Fragrance-Free: Seen Fragrance-Free Conditioner

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SEEN

Fragrance-Free Conditioner

$32

Amazon

$32

Ulta Beauty

Why we love it: Even if you're careful to keep conditioner off your scalp, it still runs down your face, neck, and body in the shower, which can lead to irritation. If you're sensitive to fragrance, Seen's Fragrance-Free Conditioner, a go-to for Kennor, keeps things refreshingly simple. The minimalist ingredient list relies on glycerin to draw in moisture and bisabolol to soothe sensitive skin, while shea butter-derived emollients soften and detangle sans the rich, buttery feel that can leave fine hair looking limp. If you have highly reactive skin, you'll appreciate that it has earned the National Eczema Association's Seal of Acceptance. This means the formula has been reviewed for ingredients that are less likely to irritate sensitive or eczema-prone skin.

More to know

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• Key ingredients: glycerin, bisabolol
• Fragrance-free: yes
• Silicone-free: yes

Best for Color-Treated Hair: Biolage Volume Boost Conditioner

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Biolage

Volume Boost Conditioner

$26

Amazon

$26

Ulta Beauty

Why we love it: If your hair's been through the wringer thanks to bleach, highlights, or chemical treatments, Biolage’s Volume Bloom Conditioner fits the bill with a gentle, color-safe formula. “Its key ingredient, cotton extract, helps plump the hair for added fullness,” says Gina Rivera, a hairstylist based in Las Vegas. “I also love this conditioner because it’s silicone-free and rich in texture, yet it doesn’t weigh the hair down.” This silicone-free formula gives fine hair a plump, bouncy boost, delivering long-lasting volume and hydration. “I usually recommend silicone-free conditioners like this one to help maintain moisture and prevent hair from drying out in the long run,” says Rivera.

More to know

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• Key ingredients: cotton extract, hydrolyzed soy protein, starch acetate
• Fragrance-free: no
• Silicone-free: yes

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes the best conditioner for fine hair?

Fine hair isn’t just about volume—it can also be prone to brittleness, dryness, and breakage, so the right conditioner needs to do more than just add body. “It should strengthen, hydrate, and boost volume for long-term hair health,” says Dickson.

If you’re looking to strengthen hair, consider conditioners with “ginger root that can enhance the individual hair shaft diameter while soothing the scalp, pea peptides that are a weightless hair strengthener, and walnut oil, which lightly strengthens and protects while adding shine,” she says. For hydration, “aloe vera is your go-to for deep moisture and softness, while glycerin acts like a moisture magnet, keeping hair hydrated without making them feel heavy,” she says.

Be mindful of volumizing conditioners, as not all are created equal. “Many volumizing products actually focus on chelating the hair to create instant volume and lift—I call these ‘quick-fix’ products,” Dickson says. “They work great at first, but can physically weaken and compromise the hair over time.” Instead, if fullness and bounce are the goals, she recommends seeking humectants for lightweight hydration.

Should people with fine hair not use conditioner?

Fine, flat hair absolutely needs a moisturizing conditioner—but the right kind and how often you use it are key. Skipping conditioner can leave fine hair dry, tangled, and prone to breakage, but using the wrong one can weigh it down. “Fine hair can be more fragile, so it's essential to use conditioners with lightweight proteins to help maintain the hair's elasticity,” says Rivera.

However, she advises that “proteins have their place, but they are not to be overused; too much protein can have adverse effects. I recommend a protein treatment once or twice a month and using a more hydrating conditioner between treatments.” For everyday hydration, use lightweight humectants like glycerin and aloe vera—they’ll keep your hair soft and moisturized sans greasy buildup. When using conditioner, stick to the mid-lengths and ends—skip the roots to keep hair voluminous.

How do you rehydrate fine hair?

To rehydrate fine hair, focus on lightweight, moisture-boosting ingredients that won’t weigh it down. “Humectants are a great way to give fine hair body,” says Rivera, so look for ingredients like glycerin, panthenol, or sodium PCA to draw in hydration without heaviness. For added strength, “Wheat protein is a lightweight protein that creates body for thin, fine hair,” making it a great addition to your routine. Rivera suggests being mindful of some silicone conditioners, as “they can be too heavy and weigh the hair down,” she says. If hair still feels dry, a weekly hydrating hair mask or leave-in conditioner can boost hydration further.

Meet the experts

• Julie Dickson, a hairstylist and founder of Joon Drop Salon in New York City
• Kenna Kennor, a hairstylist and founder of Kennaland based in Brooklyn, New York
• Kristina Maccaro, owner and colorist at Love Lane Salon in Jersey City, New Jersey
• Gina Rivera, a hairstylist and founder of Phenix Salon Suites based in Las Vegas

How we test and review products

We always enlist a range of testers for our makeup vertical, but hair-care products and tools are another story. While there are certainly products that can be used across different hair textures, lengths, curl patterns, thicknesses, colors (natural and unnatural), and needs, hair products are often created with specific consumers in mind. Many are created in order to address a concern (dandruff, breakage, brittleness) or to work most effectively for a specific hair type (4C curls, wavy hair, gray hair). You wouldn’t want to pick up a purple shampoo that’s only been reviewed by someone with, say, auburn hair, or a diffuser that’s never been tested by anyone with curls—right?

For our review of the best conditioners for fine hair, we enlisted the help of multiple editors, writers, contributors, and hair experts—many of whom want thicker, more voluminous hair. Testers considered performance across four primary categories: efficacy, texture and experience, fragrance, and packaging. For more on what's involved in our reporting, check out our complete reviews process and methodology page.

Our staff and testers

A beauty product is a personal purchase. You might be searching for a face cream to address persistent dryness or a new nail product to add to your Sunday self-care routine; you may simply be browsing around for the latest launches to hit the hair market. No matter what you seek or your individual needs and concerns, Allure wants to ensure that you love anything we recommend in our stories. We believe that having a diverse team of writers and editors—in addition to the wide range of outside testers and industry experts we regularly call upon—is essential to reaching that goal.

After all, can we really say a skin-care product is the "best" for people over 50 if the only testers we've solicited opinions from folks who have yet to hit 30? Can we honestly deem a high-end diffuser worthy of your hard-earned cash if it’s never been tested on curls? We're proud that our staff spans a wide range of ages, skin tones, hair textures, genders, and backgrounds, which means that we are able to fairly assess any beauty product that comes into the beauty closet.

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

The best hair oils might sound completely counterintuitive. If you're trying to keep your hair from looking greasy, why would you add oil to it? But today's formulas are a far cry from the heavy, greasy treatments of decades past. The right hair oil can be the difference between hair that puffs up the second you step outside and strands that stay smooth, glossy, and manageable.

Whether you're dealing with frizz, dry ends, heat damage, or simply want to add a little extra polish to your style, there's a hair oil designed for the job. Some are packed with nourishing botanical oils (like argan oil, squalane, and castor oil) that seal in moisture, while others rely on lightweight silicones to seal the cuticle, dial up the gloss, and shield hair from humidity without weighing it down.

Our Top Hair Oils

• Best Overall: Oribe Gold Lust Nourishing Hair Oil, $59
• Best for Frizz: Kérastase Gloss Absolu Glaze Drops Anti-Frizz Hair Oil, $39
• Best for Fine Hair: Gisou Honey Infused Hair Oil, $46
• Best for Protective Styles: Cécred Nourishing Hair Oil, $45

Frequently Asked QuestionsAccordionItemContainerButtonLargeChevron

• How do hair oils work?
• Which hair oil is right for me?
• When should I use hair oil?
• Meet the experts
• How we test and review products
• Our staff and testers

Best Overall: Oribe Gold Lust Nourishing Hair Oil

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Oribe

Gold Lust Nourishing Hair Oil

$59

Amazon

$59

Nordstrom

$59

Sephora

Allure social director Kassidy Silva applying the Oribe Gold Lust Nourishing Hair Oil.

Kassidy Silva

Why it's worth it: Oribe’s Gold Lust Nourishing Hair Oil is the ultimate indulgence for every hair type. Silky and weightless, it tackles dryness and frizz with a blend of argan and jasmine oils, plus Oribe’s Signature Complex—a mix of antioxidant-rich watermelon, lychee, and edelweiss flower extracts—to keep strands strong, hydrated, and shiny. It has a subtle sandalwood and bergamot scent that leaves hair smelling as luxe as it looks. New York City-based hairstylist, Andrew Inconstanti, calls it “liquid gold” for its instant smoothing effect, effortless shine, and color-enhancing boost. “It also smells like a high-end perfume, so your hair will smell expensive all day long,” he says.

Silva before applying the Oribe Gold Lust Nourishing Hair Oil

Kassidy Silva

Silva after applying the Oribe Gold Lust Nourishing Hair Oil

Kassidy Silva

Tester feedback from social director Kassidy Silva

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“Two pumps of the Oribe Gold Lust oil are all it takes to keep my hair shining all day long. After towel-drying my hair, I pump a quarter-size amount into my palms and work it through the ends, and run a comb through a few times to lightly distribute the product to my roots. If my hair is looking a little dull after drying, I'll add one more pump once I'm finished styling.” —Kassidy Silva, social director

More to know

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• Key ingredients: jasmine oil, argan oil, edelweiss flower, lychee
• Who it's best for: all hair types
• When to apply: on damp or dry hair
• Fragrance-free: no
• Sizes: 1.7 oz., 3.4 oz.

Best for Frizz: Kérastase Gloss Absolu Glaze Drops Anti-Frizz Hair Oil

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Kérastase

Gloss Absolu Glaze Drops Anti-Frizz Hair Oil

$39

Amazon

$39

Sephora

Allure senior staff writer Elizabeth Gulino applying the Kérastase Gloss Absolu Glaze Drops Anti-Frizz Hair Oil

Elizabeth Gulino

Why it's worth it: If you've long loved Kérastase's iconic Elixir Ultime, but wish it delivered an even more mirror-like, glass-hair finish, Gloss Absolu Glaze Drops is the answer. As the brand's lightest hair oil in its lineup, it swaps heavier botanical oils for a featherweight silicone blend to tame frizz and boost shine without leaving hair greasy or limp. Hyaluronic acid pulls in moisture, wild rose oil leaves hair softer, and glycolic acid smooths the hair cuticle so it reflects more light. The formula acts like an invisible raincoat against humidity—keeping hair sleek and glossy for up to four days, according to the brand.

Gulino before applying the Kérastase Gloss Absolu Glaze Drops Anti-Frizz Hair Oil

Elizabeth Gulino

Gulino after applying the Kérastase Gloss Absolu Glaze Drops Anti-Frizz Hair Oil

Elizabeth Gulino

Tester feedback from senior staff writer Elizabeth Gulino

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“I would like to personally thank whoever formulated Kérastase's Gloss Absolu line because wow, did it actually help with my frizz and dryness. The first time I used both the shampoo and conditioner was on a Friday before heading out to dinner with friends—usually, when I air dry my wavy hair, I'll add in a few curls with a curling iron to try and tame any frizz with heat. But after using Kérastase's Gloss Absolu Shampoo and Conditioner, I didn't even need to plug in any hot tools—my hair was good to go as-is. The citrus-y floral scent of the products is a major plus, too, and made my shower smell like a spa. I have a feeling I'll go through these products fairly quickly.” —Elizabeth Gulino, senior staff writer

More to know

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• Key ingredients: wild rose oil extract, silicones, hyaluronic acid, glycolic acid
• Who it's best for: everyone, especially those with dull hair
• When to apply: on damp or dry hair
• Fragrance-free: no
• Size: 1.5 oz.

Best for Protective Styles: Cécred Nourishing Hair Oil

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Cécred

Nourishing Hair Oil

$45

Ulta Beauty

Why we love it: Unlike hair oils that rely on silicones for slip and shine, Cécred's Nourishing Hair Oil is powered almost entirely by a blend of 13 botanical oils—including baobab, moringa, castor, black seed, and sea buckthorn—to help replenish the hair's natural lipids and reduce moisture loss. That makes it especially ideal for protective styles like braids, twists, and cornrows, for which keeping hair nourished between wash days is a priority. Because it's a true oil blend rather than an oil with a silicone base, it can also be massaged directly onto the scalp—as our tester demonstrates—to soothe dryness and keep both the scalp and the hair underneath feeling conditioned.

Allure contributor Jailynn Taylor applying the Cécred Nourishing Hair Oil

Jailynn Taylor

Taylor after applying the Cécred Nourishing Hair Oil

Jailynn Taylor

Tester feedback from contributor Jailynn Taylor

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"I've tried countless oils searching for one that nourishes my locs without causing buildup, and the Cécred Nourishing Hair Oil delivers on both fronts. Upon application, my locs feel softer and better sealed with the moisture they need to stay strong and flexible. Rather than sitting on the surface, this oil absorbs well and keeps my locs hydrated for days with a subtle sheen. I apply a few drops to my scalp and along the length of my locs between wash days, and the results are immediate: less dryness, more movement, and easier manageability. The Temple Oud fragrance is pleasant and lingers just enough without being overwhelming." —Jailynn Taylor, contributor

More to know

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• Key ingredients: baobab oil, sea buckthorn oil, bioactive keratin ferment
• Who it's best for: all hair types, especially textured hair
• When to apply: after styling
• Fragrance-free: no
• Size: 1.7 oz.

Best for Curly Hair: Chris McMillan The Glassy Smooth Hair Oil

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Chris McMillan

The Glassy Smooth Hair Oil

$58

Sephora

Allure senior commerce director Shanna Shipin applying the Chris McMillan The Glassy Smooth Hair Oil

Shanna Shipin

Why it's worth it: If you've written off hair oils because they always seem to leave your roots greasy or your hair limp, maybe the problem isn't necessarily the formula—it's how you're applying it. Chris McMillan's The Lightweight Glassy Hair Oil Mist rethinks the experience with an ultra-fine aerosol mist that evenly disperses the product throughout your hair, making it much harder to overdo than a traditional dropper or pump. The mist format is especially great for curls and textured hair, since it distributes product evenly without soaking one section or weighing down your curl pattern. It doesn't hurt that the formula is incredibly lightweight, either: Smoothing silicones team up with blackcurrant, camellia, moringa, and wheat germ oils to soften frizz and add next-level shine, while hyaluronic acid helps hair hold onto moisture so it stays sleek even when humidity rolls in.

Shipin before applying the Chris McMillan The Glassy Smooth Hair Oil

Shanna Shipin

Shipin after applying the Chris McMillan The Glassy Smooth Hair Oil

Shanna Shipin

Tester feedback from senior commerce director Shanna Shipin

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“Chris McMillan seemingly can’t miss, and the Lightweight Glassy Hair Oil Mist is the latest proof point. Frizzy hair? Gone. Heat protection? Covered. Shine? Just the right amount, and never greasy! The best part is the delivery with this hair oil: it’s a true, super-fine mist that gently anoints your strands with a halo of shine (forgive the flowery language, but the mist warrants it). It also happens to be absolutely perfect for curly hair. My hair is naturally quite dry, so I’m always fighting frizz, and scrunching out my curls or splitting strands for volume (which I love) isn’t ideal, so it feels like Chris designed this with curly girls in mind. You don’t need to rake or mess up your curls with this kind of product. Because the mist is so lightweight, it’s also going to be great for those with fine hair, and really anyone who wants a veil of shine (without any fuss). Plus the packaging is stunning; it’s a lovely, heavyweight glass bottle with an oversized top and elegant dispenser. It sits perfectly next to my perfume bottles on my vanity.” —Shanna Shipin, senior commerce director

More to know

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• Key ingredients: black currant seed oil, camellia seed oil, moringa seed oil, wheat germ oil, hyaluronic acid, dimethicone
• Who it's best for: all hair types, especially curly or textured hair
• When to apply: on damp or dry hair
• Fragrance-free: no
• Size: 3.4 oz.

Best for Fine Hair: Gisou Honey Infused Hair Oil

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Gisou

Honey Infused Hair Oil

$46

Amazon

$46

Sephora

Allure contributing commerce writer Christa Joanna Lee applying the Gisou Honey Infused Hair Oil

Christa Joanna Lee

Why it's worth it: What happens when a beekeeper marries a hairstylist? Their daughter bottles the family secret and creates Gisou’s Honey Infused Hair Oil. At the heart of the formula is the brand's proprietary Mirsalehi Honey, harvested from the family's bee garden in the Netherlands, which acts as a natural humectant to help hair attract and hold onto moisture. It’s paired with an antioxidant-rich blend of eight botanical oils—including sweet almond, coconut, argan, and passionfruit seed oils—packed with nourishing omega fatty acids to soften frizz, seal in hydration, and boost shine. Lightweight silicones finish the job by smoothing the hair cuticle, leaving hair glossy and polished without weighing down finer strands. “It's also a good one to reach for on day two or three after wash day, when the hair needs waking up rather than a full reset,” says Kenna Kennor, a hairstylist based in Brooklyn, New York.

Lee before applying the Gisou Honey Infused Hair Oil

Christa Joanna Lee

Lee after applying the Gisou Honey Infused Hair Oil

Christa Joanna Lee

Tester feedback from contributing commerce writer Christa Joanna Lee

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“If you have long hair like mine (it practically reaches my waist), a good hair oil isn't optional. I'll admit I got a little overzealous in this demo and used too much, which deflated my blowout a little more than I would've liked. But once I figured out the sweet spot—just two drops per side instead of a whole dropper full—Gisou's Honey Infused Hair Oil completely won me over. It leaves my mid-lengths and ends unbelievably soft and silky with a glossy shine, all without weighing my hair down and zero greasiness. I can't stop running my hands through my hair when I use this.” —Christa Joanna Lee, contributing commerce writer

More to know

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• Key ingredients: Mirsalehi Honey, sweet almond oil, coconut oil, argan oil, passionfruit seed oil, dimethicone
• Who it's best for: all hair types, especially dry or fine hair
• When to apply: on damp or dry hair
• Fragrance-free: no
• Sizes: 0.6 oz., 1.7 oz., 3.4 oz.

Best Pre-Wash: Fable and Mane HoliRoots Hair Oil

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Fable & Mane

HoliRoots Hair Oil

$38

Amazon

$38

Sephora

Allure commerce editor Sarah Han applying the Fable and Mane HoliRoots Hair Oil

Sarah Han

Why it's worth it: Inspired by Ayurvedic hair oiling, a 5,000-year-old practice in India that involves massaging warm, herb-infused oils into the scalp and strands to nourish, Fable and Mane’s HoliRoots Hair Oil is designed to be worked into the scalp section by section before your shower. Leave it on for at least five minutes—or use it as an overnight treatment—for stronger roots, reduced breakage, boosted circulation, and deeply hydrated, healthy-looking hair. Key oils like castor, olive fruit, jojoba, grapeseed, and sesame, along with Ayurveda classics like ashwagandha and amla (which are known to stimulate keratin production), work together to nourish strands and calm the scalp. Rest assured: Despite being packed with oils, you won’t find any residue in your scalp post-shampoo. “It absorbs beautifully, leaving fine or damaged hair feeling deeply resilient, denser, and soft,” says Inconstanti.

Han before applying the Fable and Mane HoliRoots Hair Oil

Sarah Han

Han after applying the Fable and Mane HoliRoots Hair Oil

Sarah Han

Tester feedback from commerce editor Sarah Han

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“I’ve been using this product pretty consistently for two years, applying about three half-droppers of product to three sections of my scalp for at least 15 minutes before I hop into the shower. I'll occasionally use a scalp massager to work the product more deeply, but my fingers do the trick, too. I deal with a dry, itchy scalp—probably because I don't wash my hair enough; I wholly admit it! I'm the problem!—and I find that this formula makes a world of difference in calming said irritation. Thank you, root extracts. The oil rinses away swiftly down the drain, and my scalp always feels lighter and more balanced post-shampoo.” —Sarah Han, commerce editor

More to know

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• Key ingredients: ashwagandha, amla, castor, olive fruit, jojoba, grape seed, and sesame oils
• Who it's best for: people with dry, broken strands looking to boost growth
• When to apply: on dry hair as a pre-shampoo treatment
• Fragrance-free: no
• Size: 1.8 oz.

Best for Flat Hair: LolaVie Lightweight Hair Oil

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LolaVie

Lightweight Hair Oil

$33

Amazon

$33

Ulta Beauty

$33

Credo Beauty

Former Allure senior news editor Nicola Dall’Asen applying the LolaVie Lightweight Hair Oil

Nicola Dall'Asen

Why it's worth it: Pulling off the (near) impossible, LolaVie’s Lightweight Hair Oil leaves hair with a patent-like shine without flattening your meticulously styled blowout. The dilemma with most hair oils is that they have at least some weight, which can lead to a deflated style, especially if you have naturally fine, thin, or otherwise flat hair. But LolaVie’s nourishing formula “is so fluid and fast-absorbing that you won’t even feel it, but you'll definitely see the brilliant shine,” says Inconstanti. Coconut-derived emollients and squalane deliver that glossy finish, while sunflower and apricot kernel oils soften frizz and seal in moisture. Antioxidant-rich chlorella, chia seed, and olive leaf extracts protect hair from environmental stressors, and a blend of quinoa, chickpea, and lentil extracts helps strengthen strands. Considering it's Jennifer Aniston's hair-care brand, salon-worthy results were pretty much a given.

Dall’Asen before applying the LolaVie Lightweight Hair Oil

Nicola Dall'Asen

Dall’Asen after applying the LolaVie Lightweight Hair Oil

Nicola Dall'Asen

Tester feedback from former senior news editor Nicola Dall’Asen

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“Short, fine hair like mine and oils don't always get along, but I never have to worry about that with LolaVie's Lightweight Hair Oil—hell, its distinguishing factor is right there in the name. Just a few drops of this keratin-based oil give my hair the hydration and shine it desperately needs, and thankfully without that heavy, greasy feeling.” —Nicola Dall’Asen, former senior news editor

More to know

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• Key ingredients: coconut derivatives, squalane, sunflower seed oil, olive leaf extract, chlorella vulgaris (algae) extract, chia seed extract, bamboo extract
• Who it's best for: people who lack volume
• When to apply: after towel-drying and/or after styling
• Fragrance-free: no
• Size: 1.5 oz.

Best for Damaged Hair: Virtue Healing Oil

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Virtue

Healing Oil

$46

Amazon

$46

Nordstrom

$46

Bluemercury

Lee applying the Virtue Healing Oil

Christa Joanna Lee

Why it's worth it: Almost every hair oil can boost shine and zap frizz, but what sets Virtue’s Healing Oil apart is that it repairs damage, too. It's the only hair oil formulated with a human hair-identical protein (Alpha Keratin 60ku) that fills in cracks along the hair cuticle to reinforce weakened strands. “It doesn’t fake smoothness; it gives compromised hair what it really needs,” says Kennor. The texture also stands out: Instead of feeling overly rich or greasy, it relies on weightless silicones along with marula, Kalahari melon seed, and coconut oils for silky slip and glossy shine without weighing hair down.

Because Alpha Keratin 60ku is a water-loving protein suspended in an oil base, you'll need to give the bottle a shake before each use to blend everything together and activate the formula. “A little goes a long way—you’ll feel the difference immediately in how it brushes and how it takes a style,” he says.

Lee before applying the Virtue Healing Oil

Christa Joanna Lee

Lee after applying the Virtue Healing Oil

Christa Joanna Lee

Tester feedback from Lee

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“I'm on my third bottle of Virtue's Healing Oil—which really isn't something I can say about many beauty products. I only get my hair cut once or twice a year (zero trims in between) because I'm fiercely loyal to my stylist, who happens to be more than an hour away, so my styling products have to pick up the slack. My biggest battle is dry, damaged ends from frequent heat styling, and while I know nothing can truly glue split ends back together, this oil makes them look and feel so much healthier. My hair feels silkier, and I swear it's helped keep my ends from becoming even more prone to breakage between salon visits.” —Lee, contributing commerce writer

More to know

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• Key ingredients: Alpha Keratin 60ku, marula oil, Kalahari melon seed oil, coconut oil, silicones
• Hair it's best for: dry, damaged, heat-styled, or chemically processed hair
• When to apply: on damp or dry hair
• Fragrance-free: no
• Sizes: 1.7 oz., 0.67 oz.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do hair oils work?

Unlike hair masks and leave-in conditioners, which primarily condition and replenish moisture, hair oils are formulated to seal everything in. "Hair oils help smooth the hair cuticle and reduce styling breakage while minimizing frizz," Cincinnati-based cosmetic chemist Kelly Dobos says. However, it isn't the oil smoothing the cuticle on its own. "Most hair 'oils' on the market actually contain very little oil; they're primarily made from siloxanes and hydrocarbons,” explains Dobos. These ingredients, also known as silicones and mineral oils, respectively, are added to many hair oils because some of the lipids in natural oils can weigh hair down and cause fine hair to look greasy. Therefore, products with a high oil concentration are better on thick, textured, or coily hair, Dobos says.

Which hair oil is right for me?

"Rather than choosing an oil for your hair type, you should consider what you need the oil to do for your hair," says Sophia Emmanuel, a hairstylist in New York City. For example, if you're looking to enhance shine and softness, olive, carrot, and jojoba oils, all of which act as moisture-sealing emollients, are helpful. On the other hand, avid users of hot tools like blow-dryers or straighteners should reach for silicone-infused products to protect the hair's cuticle. Keep in mind, however, that silicone has long-term effects. New York City-based board-certified dermatologist Joshua Zeichner, MD, tells Allure, "Continued use of silicones over time can weigh down the hair, so it's important to regularly wash hair to prevent any buildup."

When should I use hair oil?

Hair oils can have varied application directions, so be sure to read the bottle before you start your treatment. While many hair oils are applied to dry or damp hair on the mid-lengths and ends for a smooth finish, others are meant to be applied pre-wash. "The main benefit of pre-wash oils is that of an emollient, which provides a coating over the hair shaft, which seals the cuticle and traps moisture inside," Vladyslava Doktor, MD, a board-certified dermatologist in Boston, told Allure. Apply your pre-wash oil from mid-lengths to ends and to your scalp if it feels dry. Gently massage it in, let it sit for at least 10 minutes (or however long the instructions state) or overnight, and then shampoo and condition the hair. For extra absorption, you can wrap your strands in a warm towel or a shower cap while the oil sits.

Meet the experts

• Kelly Dobos, a cosmetic chemist based in Cincinnati
• Vladyslava Doktor, MD, a board-certified dermatologist and founder of Skin Center Boston based in Boston
• Sophia Emmanuel, a hairstylist at Crown Worthy based in New York City
• Andrew Inconstanti, a hairstylist at Umi Salon based in New York City
• Kenna Kennor, a hairstylist and founder of Kennaland based in Brooklyn, New York
• Joshua Zeichner, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in New York City

How we test and review products

We always enlist a range of testers for our makeup vertical, but hair-care products and tools are another story. While there are certain products that can be used across different hair textures, lengths, curl patterns, thicknesses, colors (natural and unnatural), and needs, hair products are often created with specific consumers in mind. Many are created to address a concern (dandruff, breakage, brittleness) or to work most effectively for a specific hair type (4C curls, wavy hair, gray hair). You wouldn't want to pick up a purple shampoo that's only been reviewed by someone with, say, auburn hair, or a diffuser that's never been tested by anyone with curls—right?

For our review of the best hair oils, we enlisted the help of multiple editors, writers, contributors, professional stylists, cosmetic chemists, and board-certified dermatologists—who spoke about how to choose a hair oil and its range of benefits, depending on hair type, texture, hair concerns, and desired outcome. Testers considered performance across three primary categories: efficacy, formula, and application. For more on what's involved in our reporting, check out our complete reviews process and methodology page.

Our staff and testers

A beauty product is a personal purchase. You might be searching for a face cream to address persistent dryness or a new nail product to add to your Sunday self-care routine; you may simply be browsing around for the latest launches to hit the hair market. No matter what you seek or your individual needs and concerns, Allure wants to ensure that you love anything we recommend in our stories. We believe that having a diverse team of writers and editors—in addition to the wide range of outside testers and industry experts we regularly call upon—is essential to reaching that goal.

After all, can we really say a skin-care product is the "best" for people over 50 if the only testers we've solicited opinions from folks who have yet to hit 30? Can we honestly deem a high-end diffuser worthy of your hard-earned cash if it’s never been tested on curls? We're proud that our staff spans a wide range of ages, skin tones, hair textures, genders, and backgrounds, which means that we are able to fairly assess any beauty product that comes into the beauty closet.