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ICYMI, Beyoncé is back to posting on Instagram, which means we're back to poring over every photo in her signature carousels for all the best beauty details. (Oh, and she got a bob!) One such nail-related detail in her latest photo drop, however, was so delicate that I almost missed it while flipping through her pics—but I'm so glad I didn't!

Though Bey didn't join her husband and daughters on the field at the Super Bowl, she did watch the game (and the Halftime Show) and gave us a peek at her Game Day look, complete with an enchantingly dainty take on the French manicure.

Her manicure was the work of Miho Okawara, who is responsible for many of her most recognizable (and copy-able) manicures. Okawara sculpted Beyoncé's nails into a long almond shape with a neutral base color, then detailed each nail with its own minuscule design. Instead of a bright or creamy white nail, though, Okawara outlined the tip with a fine line and rhinestone design on the pointer finger and a series of teeny-tiny golden dots on the middle finger. Beyoncé's ring finger tiptoed into accent nail territory with a gold and silver metallic texture applied to the tip. A few of her fingers were entirely French-less; her pinky fingers were almost completely bare, save for a cluster of sparkle at the base of the nail, and her thumbs sported a delicate design in the center of the nail. (Scroll through a few pics to see a close-up.)

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The French manicure is a mainstay in Beyoncé's manicure routine, and we've seen so many iterations of the look on her famous fingertips in the past. She's gone classic, of course, but we've also seen her turquoise-studded “Texas French” for her Cowboy Carter album, a chrome metallic silver set befitting the Renaissance era, and even a hidden Santa Claus French during the holidays! Could her latest manicure be a clue about a new project? Fans are buzzing about an Act III album release date, every potential hint will be fully examined—and that includes her nails!

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The Allure Readers’ Choice Awards are determined through an annual reader-voted poll on Allure.com. This page explains how nominees are selected, how votes are collected and verified, and how final winners are determined.

Allure magazine has been bringing reliable product recommendations to readers for 30 years. And for 20 of those years, readers have been telling Allure editors the hair, skin-care, and makeup products they recommend (and can’t live without) in the Readers’ Choice Awards poll. They vote, we listen.

Here’s a closer look at how that process works.

Frequently Asked Questions

• How long does the Allure Readers’ Choice Awards voting period last?
• Who is eligible to vote in the Allure Readers’ Choice Awards?
• How are votes counted in the Allure Readers’ Choice Awards poll?

What Are the Readers’ Choice Awards?

Every February, Allure editors ask our discerning readers to share which hair, skin, nail, and makeup products they’re loving via the Allure Readers’ Choice Awards poll.

The poll features over 500 products for readers to vote on, across all categories: Skin, Hair, Body, and Makeup, along with a few other specialties, like Clean Beauty, Breakthroughs, Steals, and Splurges.

In recent years, several new categories have been added to the poll, like New Brand, Most Viral Product, Favorite Indie Brand, and Favorite Creator. This year, a K-beauty category was added to the list.

How Readers’ Choice Awards Voting Works

How Products Are Nominated for the Poll

In every category of the Allure Readers' Choice Awards, readers are invited to weigh in, selecting their favorites from a short list of 5 to 15 beauty products.

We curate each list from:

• The Readers' Choice and Best of Beauty Award winners in that category for the last three years
• The products nominated by 15 to 20 of Allure's favorite beauty experts (dermatologists, hairstylists, makeup artists, nail artists, and cosmetic chemists)
• The best-selling products at Ulta Beauty, Sephora, and Credo Beauty
• The top-selling products from Allure's commerce stories (across all retailers)
• Allure staff picks: new launches and cult classics
• New products that we have featured in our social series “This Just In”

Beauty products aren’t the only nominees in the Readers’ Choice Award poll; content creators are now also included. Every year, the Allure social team hand-picks top beauty, style, and lifestyle creators to participate in the poll. They are selected based on a handful of metrics, such as follower count, engagement rate, and our editors’ views on the quality of their beauty content, and more.

The Readers’ Choice Awards poll nominee list is crafted between the months of November and January, and typically goes live in early February. This year, the Readers’ Choice Awards poll goes live on Tuesday, February 17, at 8 a.m. ET.

How to Vote in the Readers’ Choice Awards Poll

Head to allure.com/vote, where the Readers’ Choice Awards poll lives. From this page, you can jump between categories or follow the order in which categories are listed on the page: Skin, Splurges, Breakthroughs, Makeup, Survey, Body, Steals, Clean, and Hair.

By clicking on the name of each category, for example, Skin, you’re directed to the Skin poll, which features 10 subcategories, with eight products in each. Once you’ve selected your product picks for all 10 questions (only one product can be chosen per question), the page will automatically direct you to the next category, e.g., Splurges.

You should continue this process until you’ve reached the end of the poll, which is after the Hair category.

Note: While there is no fixed limit on participation, Allure monitors voting activity and reserves the right to review and remove suspicious or automated submissions. However, you must complete the poll in its entirety in order to be counted.

How Live Voting Leaderboards Work

During the voting period, we display a live leaderboard for the Best New Brand category. This leaderboard reflects how nominees are pacing based on votes received to date. It is updated periodically and is intended to provide a snapshot of voting trends—not final results. Official winners are determined only after voting closes and all eligible votes have been fully tallied and reviewed.

How Votes Are Verified & Tallied

Each vote cast in the Readers’ Choice Awards poll is counted and collected via a third-party program called Typeform. On this platform, the Allure staff has full viewing access to results during the voting period; votes are securely recorded through the platform and reviewed before final tallies are confirmed. They are counted at the end of the voting period, which ends on Tuesday, March 24, at 11:59 p.m. ET.

How Allure Readers’ Choice Winners Are Determined

Readers’ Choice Award winners are determined by the number of votes a product has in its category. The product with the highest number of votes is deemed the winner.

Allure Readers’ Choice Awards vs. Best of Beauty Awards Methodology Comparison

Unlike the submission process for the Allure Best of Beauty Awards, brands do not submit products to be considered for the annual Readers’ Choice Awards poll. Instead, Allure editors craft a 500-plus product list—across hair, skin, makeup, body, Clean, and Breakthrough categories—for readers to vote on.

For the Best of Beauty Awards, winners are selected based on editors’ testing experiences; for the Readers’ Choice Awards, winners are determined by readers’ votes.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does the Allure Readers’ Choice Awards voting period last?

The voting period for the Readers’ Choice Awards Poll is five weeks long. This year, it opens on Tuesday, February 17, at 8 a.m. ET and closes on Tuesday, March 24, at 11:59 p.m. ET.

Who is eligible to vote in the Allure Readers’ Choice Awards?

Anyone over the age of 18 can vote in the Readers’ Choice Awards poll.

How are votes counted in the Allure Readers’ Choice Awards poll?

In the poll, you can expect to find a mix of open-ended and multiple-choice questions, where you can select from 5 to 15 nominees or submit a product that’s not listed. Every product selected or submitted is counted as one vote. You must complete each individual category before moving on to the next.

$18 at SephoraSave StorySave this storySave StorySave this story

TL;DR:

• What it is: A bi-phase eye makeup remover
• What it does: Soaks off eyeliner, mascara, and eye shadow without causing sensitivity
• Who it’s for: Anyone looking for an eye makeup remover that can actually remove waterproof formulas

Aside from my trusty tubing mascara, I rarely wear eye makeup. (Brow products don’t count in this generalization.) But when I do, it’s usually some variation of a sparkly shadow for a special occasion.

On these nights (well, at the end of them), I skip my usual double-cleanse routine and instead reach for something stronger: a bi-phase eye makeup remover. It cuts through the glitter faster than my cleansing balm ever could.

I really like Sephora Collection Express Waterproof Makeup Remover, which is formulated with cornflower extract and castor oil soothe and moisturize lids and lashes, while silky silicones help obliterate said stubborn shadow (and sweatproof mascara and waterproof liquid liner).

To use, I give it a quick shake, then sprinkle a few drops onto a cotton round (or reusable cloth if I’m at home and not traveling) before gently pressing into (closed) eyelids. From there, I lightly move and massage the pads until all of the makeup has been transferred. Sometimes this process requires a couple of rinse-and-repeat steps, but for the most part, most of the makeup comes off in the first round—without causing any sort of irritation, which is a feat for my sensitive eyes!

You can find the Sephora Collection Express Waterproof Makeup Remover, along with other editor-loved products, in the February Allure Beauty Box.

Get The Box

Sephora Collection Express Waterproof Eye Makeup Remover

$18 at Sephora$18 at Sephora

$24 at Uzo BeautySave StorySave this storySave StorySave this story

TL;DR:

• What it is: Liquid eyeliner
• What it does: Creates sharp lines on (or around) eyelids to add definition to any eye look
• Who it’s for: Anyone looking for a crisp, waterproof liner that goes on smooth and doesn’t budge

I’m not going to lie: I don’t wear eyeliner. But my best friend does, so I phoned a friend for this review. Her liner preference is of the liquid variety, which, in my opinion, makes for the sharpest of cat eyes. You know, the ones sharp enough to k— a man… (Any Taylor Swift fans out there?)

The UZO Blaque Liquide Eyeliner is definitely one of those liners that helps create the fiercest of flicks. In fact, it makes mastering the skill a little easier. Its satin finish and ultrafine tip foster a smooth and precise glide across lids, while the waterproof formula ensures your work of art doesn’t budge, no matter the forecast.

To use, give the pen a quick shake to activate the ink, then draw a quick flick off the outer corner of your eye. Move to the middle of your lid and sweep the felt tip outward until the lines connect. Fill in to build up to your desired shape and thickness.

You can find the UZO Blaque Liquide Eyeliner, along with other editor-loved products, in the February Allure Beauty Box.

Get The Box

UZO Blaque Liquide Eyeliner

$24 at Uzo Beauty$24 at Uzo Beauty

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**Update: February 18, 2026: **There's been a new development surrounding the future of Pat McGrath Labs. A little over three weeks after filing for Chapter 11 bankruptcy, it was announced that the brand secured a $30 million investment from US-based financial firm GDA Luma, after being approved by a Miami-based bankruptcy court. The funding “marks the beginning of a new phase of strong stewardship and long-term growth,” according to a press release released by GDA Luma.

The transaction injects $10 million debtor-in-possession (DIP) financing into the brand, which will allow the company to continue operating, reorganize, and pay off debts. It also commits $20 million in “post-emergence working capital" to ensure it has enough cash flow to operate smoothly.

As part of the deal, GDA Luma—which focuses on “special situations investment" and “restructuring," according to its website—will continue to hold a controlling interest in the company upon exit. Founder Pat McGrath will transition from chief executive to chief creative officer, retaining a “significant” stake in the brand and thus “preserving the artistic leadership and creative DNA that define the brand," GDA Luma said via press release.

“Together, Pat McGrath Labs and GDA Luma are committed to a future defined by uncompromising quality, desirability, and relentless innovation—reinforcing the brand not only as a trendsetter, but as a house that defines the direction of beauty itself,” GDA Luma said in the press release. "The company looks forward to an exciting pipeline of product launches beginning in the first quarter of 2026, driving renewed creative energy and commercial momentum across categories.”

**Original Story: Published January 26, 2026: **Pat McGrath Labs has filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy. The brand was set to be sold at an asset sale on January 27; this sale has now been postponed. “Pat McGrath Labs announced that it has commenced a financial restructuring under Chapter 11 of the US Bankruptcy Code,” the brand confirms in a statement issued to Allure. “The company’s secured lender’s scheduled auction for company assets has been postponed indefinitely.”

The brand, which was founded by legendary makeup artist Dame Pat McGrath, launched in 2015 with a multipurpose gold paint called Gold 001. After the initial success of Gold 001, the line grew to include everything from eye shadow palettes to bullet lipsticks to a “glass glow” face spray inspired by the viral doll skin McGrath created for a 2024 Maison Margiela runway show.

As noted by WWD, Pat McGrath Labs received $60 million in funding from the private equity investment firm Eurazeo Brands in 2018 and was valued at more than $1 billion at that time. In addition to its direct-to-consumer website, the brand was sold at Sephora and Ulta. In the past year alone, it has collaborated with franchises such as Bridgerton and Candy Crush on exclusive product lines, and has been responsible for the beauty in many big pop culture moments, such as Taylor Swift's glittery “Bejeweled” music-video glam. Swift is also a rumored fan of the brand's LiquiLust Legendary Matte Lipstick in shade Elson 4.

"Everybody was on my case about [starting a brand] for a thousand years," McGrath told Allure in 2021. "'Where's your brand? Where's your brand?' Then [with Instagram], I couldn't avoid them. It was constant torment. Every morning I'd wake up, and it was… 'Where’s your brand, Mother?'" In addition to her work as a makeup artist, McGrath also signed on as creative director for La Beauté Louis Vuitton in 2025.

Chapter 11 bankruptcy is often used by businesses to help them reorganize, restructure, and get a handle on finances to fulfill debts. Pat McGrath Labs isn't the only beauty brand to have filed Chapter 11; Revlon did so in 2022 and has since emerged. In 2024, Avon filed Chapter 11 to settle talc-based lawsuits, though the filing did not impact the United States branch of the business. Forma Brands, parent company of Morphe and r.e.m. beauty, filed for Chapter 11 in 2023, and exited a few months later, when r.e.m. founder Ariana Grande acquired the brand for around $15 million.

Clearly, this filing does not spell the end of Pat McGrath Labs. For now, you can still purchase the brand's products on its website, Sephora, and Ulta. “During this process, the company will continue operations in the ordinary course of business while working to restructure its balance sheet and to forge a path to thrive," reads the brand's statement. “Pat McGrath Labs remains committed to its community, customers, partners, and stakeholders as it continues delivering its signature, high-quality products and culture-defining artistry and innovation."

Collage: Jemeria Davison / Images: Courtesy of Amazon, Blue Mercury, Byredo, Neiman Marcus, and NordstromSave StorySave this storySave StorySave this story

The beauty of the best long-lasting perfumes is that they stick with you from your morning coffee to your evening plans without a single touch-up. Whether you want a cozy, musky hug, a fresh floral that feels like a crisp spring morning, or a sexy and spicy statement scent, these fragrances won’t quit after the first spritz. We tested tons of different scents and tapped professional perfumers to find the bottles that truly go the distance, delivering complexity, depth, and that can’t-stop-sniffing effect. Below, your guide to fragrances that actually last—and keep turning heads hour after hour.

Our Top Long-Lasting Perfumes

• Best Floral: Gucci Flora Gorgeous Gardenia Eau de Parfum, $150
• Best Fruity: Parfums de Marly Delina Eau de Parfum, $250
• Best Citrus: The Harmonist Sacred Water Parfum, $285
• Best Woody: Byredo Rouge Chaotique Extrait de Parfum, $465
• Best Smoky: Balmain Carbone Eau de Parfum, $190
• Best Gourmand: Maison Francis Kurkdijan Baccarat 540 Extrait de Parfum, $310
• Best Sweet: Bond No. 9 Tribeca Eau de Parfum, $345
• Best Musk: Le Labo Santal 33 Eau de Parfum, $240
• Best Spicy: Prada Infusion de Santal Chai Eau de Parfum, $190

Frequently Asked QuestionsAccordionItemContainerButtonLargeChevron

• What makes a perfume long-lasting?
• What are the best tips to make fragrances last longer?
• Meet the experts
• How we test and review products
• Our staff and testers

Best Floral: Gucci Flora Gorgeous Gardenia Eau de Parfum

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Gucci

Flora Gorgeous Gardenia Eau de Parfum

$150

Nordstrom

$150

Ulta Beauty

$150

Sephora

Why we love it: If you’re craving a floral that leans soft and sweet, rather than green and woody, Gucci’s Flora Gorgeous Gardenia delivers. It layers juicy notes of pear over a soft bouquet of gardenia, then deepens with brown sugar and patchouli for warmth. It’s playful but polished, and the kind of scent that makes an immediate impression—no surprise it earned an Allure Best of Beauty Award in 2022.

This scent lasts so long that when our tester mailed clothes to a friend across the country, the perfume still lingered on the fabrics. (Her friend loved the scent so much that she bought a bottle for herself!)

Tester feedback from social media director Kassidy Silva

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“From my first sniff of Gucci Flora Gorgeous Gardenia, it had me questioning a major breakup with gourmand fragrance. Was I a floral girl now? While I'm not fully ready to break away from my beloved sugary scents, Gorgeous Gardenia gives me the best of both worlds. With a stunning bouquet of pear, white gardenia and brown sugar, the sweet, elevated floral is a head-turner. Not to mention, it lasts for days, literally. I shipped my best friend a jacket from New Jersey to Oregon and the scent was still going strong after a week.” —Kassidy Silva, social media director

More to know

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• Key notes: pear, gardenia, brown sugar
• Sizes: 30 ml, 50 ml, 100 ml
• Type: eau de parfum

Best Fruity: Parfums de Marly Delina Eau de Parfum

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Parfums de Marly

Delina Eau de Parfum

$250

Amazon

$250

Nordstrom

Why we love it: Although Parfums de Marly Delina took home a 2024 Allure Best of Beauty Award for best floral perfume, we can’t put this darling in a corner. Alongside classic florals like rose, lily of the valley, and peony, you’ll find fresh, fruity accents—hello, lychee and rhubarb—that give the scent a bright and modern twist. To balance it out, bergamot, cashmere wood, vanilla, and musk add warmth and depth. The result is a floral, fruity, and undeniably elegant scent that transports you to the south of France, donning a little black dress with a martini in hand. And, of course, we can’t forget to mention the chic pink bottle—the perfect addition to your vanity.

Tester feedback from associate beauty editor Annie Blay-Tettey

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“This was my first fragrance from the brand, and I immediately fell for the pink bottle with its tassel because it’s so feminine and regal. I’m usually drawn to warm, spicy gourmands, not florals, but I can’t get enough of how powdery this one is. The first word that comes to mind? Feminine. Anytime I want to feel girly and pretty, this is my go-to. Bonus: It lasts all day and all night. I can still catch whiffs of it even after a shower, so you truly get a fragrance that delivers from first spritz to last, a true bang for your buck.” —Annie Blay-Tettey, associate beauty editor

More to know

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• Key notes: rose, lily of the valley, peony, lychee, rhubarb, bergamot, cashmere wood
• Sizes: 30 ml, 739 ml
• Type: eau de parfum

Best Citrus: The Harmonist Sacred Water Parfum

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The Harmonist

Sacred Water Parfum

$285

Bluemercury

Why we love it: The Harmonist’s Sacred Water earned a 2022 Allure Best of Beauty Award, thanks to its bright, uplifting, and quietly elegant spirit. It opens with a sparkling mix of citron, mandarin, and fresh ginger, delivering an instant burst of freshness that softens as it wears. As the scent settles, orange blossom and magnolia come forward, adding depth through easy-to-wear floral notes. A base of grey amber, woody amyris, and cedar anchors everything, giving this fragrance a clean finish that lingers.

Tester feedback from beauty director Sarah Kinonen

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“I spritz two or three pumps of Sacred Water onto my neck and hair, and then walk into the lingering mist. I layer Dedcool's Xtra Milk on top to lock it in and add a soft warmness to the otherwise citrus scent. While Sacred Water brings light, refreshing notes of ginger and orange blossom, Xtra Milk adds depth with amber and white musk. When I say this elite pairing elicits compliments, I'm not kidding. I've had Trader Joe's employees stop me in the middle of checkout to ask about my perfume, and had company colleagues chase me down in the office to find out what scent I'm wearing. The layered combo is lethal in the most non-lethal and incredibly delightful way. I do wish Sacred Water was more affordable, but it's such a beautiful scent in an even more beautiful bottle, so it's easy to see why the cost is so high!” —Sarah Kinonen, beauty director

More to know

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• Key notes: citron, mandarin, orange, magnolia, grey amber, cedar
  Sizes: 50 ml
• Type: eau de parfum

Best Woody: Byredo Rouge Chaotique Extrait de Parfum

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Byredo

Rouge Chaotique Extrait de Parfum

$465

Nordstrom

Why we love it: Byredo hits the nail on the head with this wood-forward fragrance. Anchored in bergamot, smoke, and oakwood, Rouge Chaotique smells like a crunchy walk through a forest. Fresh black currant and juicy plum cut through the earthiness, while sweet praline and saffron—it’s the most expensive spice in the world, so this addition, in part, explains the price—add warmth and depth. A single spritz instantly transports us from the concrete jungle of New York City straight to Wyoming, but with this fragrance, we’re glamping, never pitching our own tent. Since this is an extrait, it’s even more concentrated than your typical eau de parfum; each spritz goes a very long way. And, the next time you wear that same shirt, you might not need to reapply.

Tester feedback from commerce editor Sarah Han

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“This Byredo extrait is my go-to date or night-out scent: The woodsy, slight spicy notes make me feel confident and sexy all night, and the scent lingers well into the next day, but at a slightly softened level that’s more appropriate for the office or meeting up with friends for brunch. I can even smell it towards the end of day two. I’m definitely more light-handed with this extrait than I am with my EDPs, maxing out at two spritzes. It’s potent but not overwhelming.” —Sarah Han, commerce editor

More to know

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• Key notes: bergamont, oakwood, blackcurrant, juicy plum, paraline, saffron
• Sizes: 70 ml
• Type: extrait

Best Smoky: Balmain Carbone Eau de Parfum

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Balmain

Carbone Eau de Parfum

$190

Neiman Marcus

Why we love it: Many of our editors have tested the Best of Beauty Award-winning Balmain Carbone, and we all agree it’s unlike anything else in our fragrance rotation. It can come across a bit strong at first, with an immediate hit of musk, suede, cumin, and patchouli, but give it a few minutes, and it enters an entirely new era. A soft rose note emerges, wrapped in a smoky tobacco haze, transforming the scent into something far more nuanced. Together, it’s floral yet smoky, with a moody, jazz-club-after-dark vibe. In our eyes, this isn’t a summer spritz, but its dark sultriness makes it perfect for fall and winter. Just a few sprays offer maximum impact that lasts from dawn until dusk.

Tester feedback from senior commerce editor Sarah Felbin

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“After weeks of testing, I can say Carbone lingers way longer than some of my other favorite perfumes (a major win in my book, since who has time to reapply hourly?). The scent is pretty strong at first, so you only need one or two spritzes for serious impact and staying power. (I’ve noticed it can lasts up to 8 hours.) I tend to wear Carbone on nights out rather than in-office days, for some much-needed confidence.” —Sarah Felbin, senior commerce editor

More to know

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• Key notes: white musk, rose, suede, patchouli, cumin
• Size: 10 ml, 50 ml, 150 ml
• Type: eau de parfum

Best Gourmand: Maison Francis Kurkdijan Baccarat 540 Extrait de Parfum

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Maison Francis Kurkdjian

Baccarat 540 Extrait de Parfum

$495

Nordstrom

Why we love it: The extrait version of Maison Francis Kurkdijan’s Baccarat 540 intensifies the power of the original eau de parfum, which is bold, given that the original already lasts a long time. It’s woody, ambery, and musky, but also has notes of jasmine flowers, ethyl maltol (an aroma enhancer and sweetener that adds a gourmand twist), and bitter almond to enhance the dessert-ness of it all. Also a saffron-boosted scent, this is another well-worth-the-price perfume that leaves a trail everywhere you go for days, with just a few quick spritzes.

Tester feedback from commerce writer Lily Wohlner

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“This is one of my all-time favorite perfumes—and one of the only bottles I’ve ever actually finished. (I own around 100 scents, so that’s really saying something.) Like Santal 33, it’s so unique and instantly recognizable when you smell it on someone. It’s the perfect blend of my favorite scent profiles—sweet and ambery—so when I don’t know what to reach for, this one always hits the spot. It also layers beautifully with more skin-scented fragrances, which helps tone down the sweetness for an office day or a morning walk when I don’t want anything too strong. I always get compliments when I wear it.” —Lily Wohlner, commerce writer

More to know

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• Key notes: cashmaran wood, saffron, jasmine, ethyl maltol, bitter almond
• Size: 35 ml, 75 ml, 200 ml
• Type: extrait

Best Sweet: Bond No. 9 Tribeca Eau de Parfum

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Bond No.9

Tribeca Eau de Parfum

$470

Amazon

Why we love it: Smelling like a chocolate cupcake isn’t for everyone, which is why Bond No. 9 elevated the good-enough-to-eat scent and turned it into something worthy of all-day wear. Tribeca has much more to offer than the warm, chocolaty star note. The brand mixed smooth, sweet cacao and caramel with green hazelnut for a crisp twist, along with jasmine and moss for an earthy, yet romantic touch. “Not only are the fragrance concentrations high, but the brand uses newer nitro musks that are stronger than older musks, so you can use 10% less and smell 100 times stronger,” says New York City-based senior perfumer Darryl Do. Translation: While it’s an investment, you’re definitely getting your money’s worth, since a little goes a long way.

More to know

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• Key notes: cacao, hazelnut, jasmine, cedarwood, moss, caramel
• Size: 50 ml, 100 ml
• Type: eau de parfum

Best Musk: Le Labo Santal 33 Eau de Parfum

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Le Labo

Santal 33 Eau de Parfum

$240

Nordstrom

Why it’s worth it: Darryl Do is also a fan of Le Labo’s Santal 33 for the same reason he loves Bond No. 9: It’s formulated with those aforementioned, newer nitro musks, so the scent is stronger, longer-lasting, and doesn’t require half the bottle to make an impact. Yes, it’s the viral fragrance everyone (and their mom) has smelled before—but there’s a reason it became that scent. The musky base is the definition of comforting, but it's not overpowering. It’s on the minimalist side, but you can immediately recognize when someone is wearing it. Cardamom brings a cozy warmth, iris and violet add brightness, and sandalwood and cedarwood give it that signature leathery edge. Le Labo’s very first creation is a unisex classic for a reason—and, years later, it’s still the one we reach for when we have no idea what scent to wear.

More to Know

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• Key notes: cardamom, iris, violet, cedarwood, sandalwood
• Size: 15 ml, 50 ml, 100 ml, 500 ml
• Type: eau de parfum

Best Spicy: Prada Infusion de Santal Chai Eau de Parfum

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Prada

Infusion de Santal Chai Eau de Parfum

$190

Nordstrom

$190

Ulta Beauty

Why we love it: Picture sitting fireside with a milky chai latte, bundled in your comfiest coat and beanie. Now, imagine what that moment would smell like. You’d land somewhere close to Prada’s Infusion de Santal Chai Eau de Parfum. It blends creamy sandalwood with warm chai spices, layered with cardamom and a hint of citrus. A musky base keeps it grounded, reading more like a skin scent than a full-on gourmand.

This recommendation comes by way of Nordstrom’s national beauty director, Autumne West: “I love a niche fragrance where you can really feel the thought behind the ingredients and how the scent develops over time. It has depth without feeling overpowering and wears in a way that still feels very natural and easy.” You can reach for this balanced, comforting spritz while sipping your morning coffee and know you’ll still smell good on your evening commute.

More to know

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• Key notes: chai latte accord, creamy sandalwood accord, citrus, musks​​
• Sizes: 100 ml
• Type: eau de parfum

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes a perfume long-lasting?

According to Do, the higher the concentration of fragrance oil is directly correlated to its longevity. Eau de toilettes typically fall in the 7 to 12% range, eau de parfums land around 15 to 20%, and concentrates (also known as extraits) can reach 22 to 30%. Look for fragrances labeled parfum, intense, or elixir, West suggests, if you’re looking for a scent that lasts all day.

The notes of the perfume also make a big difference. West says that fragrances with deeper notes like musk, tobacco, and cardamom, create a lasting impression as the fragrance dries down throughout the day. “Citrus-forward notes can be beautiful and refreshing upon first spray, but they fade quicker,” she says. That’s why many of the citrus scents on this list are anchored with deeper notes, so they’ll linger.

What are the best tips to make fragrances last longer?

One of West’s favorite tips is to apply your fragrance to freshly moisturized skin because hydrated skin holds onto scent much longer. “Layering also makes a big difference,” she says. “If a fragrance has a coordinating body lotion, oil, or shower gel, applying that first helps create a base so the perfume lasts longer and wears more evenly.”

Meet the experts

• Darryl Do is a senior perfumer at Delbia Do based in New York City.
• Autumne West is Nordstrom’s national beauty director based in Seattle.

How we test and review products

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

For our reviews of the best long-lasting perfumes, we enlisted the help of multiple editors, writers, and contributors. This ensures our testing base spans different skin tones, genders, and dermatological conditions. We considered each product's performance across four primary categories: ingredients, wear and longevity, packaging, and inclusivity. For more on what's involved in our reporting, check out our complete review 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 are 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: Jemeria Davison / Images: Courtesy of brandsSave StorySave this storySave StorySave this story

If you're overlooking your neck, 1) you're not alone, but 2) you shouldn't be. The best neck creams help minimize and prevent sagging skin, crepiness, and dark spots, since the décolletage—the delicate area from the chin to the chest—is one of the first areas to develop signs of aging. A dedicated neck cream can prove useful in reducing the effects of tech neck (as in, fine lines and double-chin-like sagging caused by looking down at your smartphone) at bay. Whether you're looking for temporary skin-tightening benefits or discoloration-reducing ingredients, we rounded up the creme de la creme of neck creams recommended by dermatologists and our editors.

Our Top Neck Creams

• Best Overall: Alastin Skincare Restorative Neck Complex $158
• Best for Sagging Skin: SkinMedica Neck Correct Cream, $135
• Best for Dry Skin: iS Clinical NeckPerfect Complex, $120
• Best for Fine Lines: NeoStrata Triple Firming Neck Cream, $98
• Best Drugstore: Neutrogena Collagen Bank Moisturizer, $22
• Best for Uneven Tone: StriVectin TL Advanced Tightening Neck Cream Plus, $99
• Best for Crepey Skin: SkinCeuticals Tripeptide R Neck Repair, $136
• Best for Age Spots: Revision Skincare Nectifirm Advanced, $115

Frequently Asked QuestionsAccordionItemContainerButtonLargeChevron

• Why does neck skin age faster?
• What’s the difference between a face and neck cream?
• What over-the-counter treatments and ingredients should I look out for?
• When should I consult with a dermatologist?
• Meet the experts
• How we test and review products
• Our staff and testers

Best Overall: Alastin Skincare Restorative Neck Complex

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Alastin Skincare

Restorative Neck Complex

$158

Amazon

$158

Alastin Skincare

Allure contributing commerce editor Deanna Pai applying the Alastin Skincare Restorative Neck Complex

Deanna Pai

Why it's worth it: Lifting the skin can be a tall order for many topical formulas, but Alastin Restorative Neck Complex deploys a unique, patented peptide blend called TriHex technology to replace damaged collagen and elastin with new, healthy fibers. That’s why Austin-based dermatologist Kristina Collins, MD, says it’s great for those concerned about tech neck, horizontal lines, or post-procedure skin recovery. “It helps the skin repair itself, which is especially important in an area that tends to age faster than the face,” she says. The fast-absorbing formula also contains niacinamide and phytoene and phytofluene (two phyto-antioxidants), all of which help improve hyperpigmentation (such as sun spots) along your neck and décolleté, Quynh-Giao Sartor, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in Houston, adds. This formula is quite lightweight and fluid, so it feels more akin to a serum—making it easier to spread one pump of the goodness down to your chest area. You'll see the best results if you use it twice a day (once in the morning and once at night).

Allure senior commerce director Shanna Shipin applying the Alastin Skincare Restorative Neck Complex

Shanna Shipin

Shipin after applying the Alastin Skincare Restorative Neck Complex

Shanna Shipin

Tester feedback from contributing commerce editor Deanna Pai

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“Do I always have time to use neck cream? Not really—but I do whenever I remember, since I don’t always bring my skin-care products down to my décolleté (as the experts recommend). I love Alastin across the board, and appreciate that this stuff, which absorbs quickly and feels nourishing, delivers those same benefits below the face. So far, it’s done the trick to fade dark spots, and I’m hoping the investment pays off on wrinkles and lines down the road.” —Deanna Pai, contributing commerce editor

Tester feedback from senior commerce director Shanna Shipin

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“I have a combination of genetic and poor-posture-induced deep lines on my neck that didn’t start to bother me until I reached my mid-30s. I know this is going to be a long game, and that creams can’t exactly undo the deep lines, but I’m hopeful that Alastin’s neck cream can help ward off any future fine lines or uneven skin tone. I absolutely love the wide pump-top bottle; more than enough is dispensed to lather your neck and décolletage. There’s no tacky finish, it doesn’t irritate my eczema-prone skin, and leaves me feeling hydrated for hours. There is a noticeable difference in how the skin around my neck and chest feels after I apply this product. It all just feels more supple!” —Shanna Shipin, senior commerce director

More to know

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• Key ingredients: peptides, phytoene, flaxseed extract
• Who it's for: people with sagging or crepey skin
• Fragrance-free: yes

Best for Sagging Skin: SkinMedica Neck Correct Cream

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SkinMedica

Neck Correct Cream

$135

Amazon

$135

Dermstore

Allure associate beauty editor Sarah Kinonen applying the SkinMedica Neck Correct Cream

Sarah Kinonen

Why it's worth it: Noah Gratch, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in New York City, says the SkinMedica Neck Correct Cream is one of his favorite neck creams to recommend to clients: “This cream deeply hydrates, addresses hyperpigmentation, and tackles existing wrinkles while preventing new ones,” he says. Chock-full of microalgae, rich in antioxidant vitamins A (also known as retinol), C, and E, this 2023 Allure Best of Beauty Award winner deeply hydrates and encourages cell regeneration to improve overall laxity—with regular use, of course. This firming cream also contains peptides and mushroom extract to give skin a firming boost—perfect for addressing the beginning signs (or more advanced) of tech neck. Texture-wise, Corey L. Hartman, MD, a board-certified dermatologist in Birmingham, Alabama, says that it’s so lightweight that it quickly absorbs into the skin so you never have to worry about stickiness. Consider our every tick box checked.

Tester feedback from beauty director Sarah Kinonen

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“Like every other young person in America, my screen time is horrifying. I’m on my phone for most of the day (for both work and pleasure), and because of that, I’ve developed the ‘ole tech neck. Tiny fine lines now etch across my once-smooth neck, and sometimes, they are all I see in the mirror. So lately I’ve been reaching for SkinMedica’s Neck Correct Cream, a serum-like treatment made with firming peptides and hydrating squalene, twice a day to target said fine lines. It’s super lightweight and doesn’t interfere with any of my other skin-care products, nor does it irritate my sensitive skin (especially the thin-skinned neck area), so here's to hoping it tackles those wrinkles while I work on finding a new hobby…away from my phone.” —Sarah Kinonen, beauty director

More to know

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• Key ingredients: peptides, shiitake mushroom extract, microalgae
• Who it's for: those with sagging skin, laxity, and hyperpigmentation
• Fragrance-Free: yes

Best for Dry Skin: iS Clinical NeckPerfect Complex

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iS Clinical

NeckPerfect Complex

$120

Amazon

$120

Dermstore

$120

Bluemercury

Allure contributing commerce writer Christa Joanna Lee applying the iS Clinical NeckPerfect Complex

Christa Joanna Lee

Why it’s worth it: The skin on your neck doesn’t always get the same love as your face, but it’s the first place that both dryness and signs of aging tend to appear. This formula takes an innovative approach by incorporating exfoliating acids to offset both. “iS Clinical NeckPerfect Complex has some key ingredients, like alpha hydroxy acids, that are going to give you a more even skin tone,” says Anna Chacon, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in Miami. It also includes hyaluronic acid to leave skin “hydrated and glowing,” she adds. With added antioxidants (such as acacia senegal gum and quinoa) to fight off environmental aggressors, this silky treatment helps lift, firm, and smooth the delicate skin below your jawline.

Tester feedback from contributing commerce writer Christa Joanna Lee

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“After breastfeeding and pumping, my décolleté was looking dry and crepey—years of tugging (thanks, kids) definitely took a toll. NeckPerfect Complex glides on silky smooth and sinks in fast without any greasy residue. The skin on my chest actually feels hydrated now, and those tiny creases I used to see have basically disappeared.” —Christa Joanna Lee, contributing commerce writer

More to know

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• Key ingredients: hyaluronic acid, acacia senegal gum, mixed fruit acids, quinoa
• Who it's for: people with dry skin who want to restore hydration, firmness, and elasticity
• Fragrance-free: no

Best for Fine Lines: NeoStrata Triple Firming Neck Cream

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NeoStrata

Triple Firming Neck Cream

$98

Amazon

$98

Dermstore

Allure commerce editor Sarah Han applying the NeoStrata Triple Firming Neck Cream

Sarah Han

Why it's worth it: NeoStrata's Triple Firming Neck Cream is a favorite of Mamina Turegano, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in New Orleans, who says that it frequently sells out at her practice. At the heart of this formula is a proprietary ingredient called NeoGlucosamine, "an amino sugar that helps diminish the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles," Dr. Turegano calls out, which boosts hyaluronic acid production—therefore increasing hydration and smoothing the look of fine lines—and gently exfoliates dead skin cells. Furthermore, it's enriched with amino acid chains (also known as peptides) to firm the skin, while shea butter and antioxidant vitamin E restore and strengthen your barrier. This rich, buttery formula may take a beat to fully absorb, but the results are well worth the few extra seconds.

Tester feedback from commerce editor Sarah Han

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“I almost always bring my facial skin-care products down to my neck, but because the amount of product that actually makes it down there varies a lot, I like the added assurance of using a dedicated neck cream—similarly to how I like a standalone sunscreen, even if I'm using a skin tint or foundation that has SPF over it. Neostrata's Triple Firming Neck Cream is oh-so buttery, and my neck and décolleté always look dewy and hydrated after each application. I do think my horizontal neck lines have softened a bit, which is a huge win for me—as someone who’s constantly crouching over my laptop and looking down at my phone.” —Sarah Han, commerce editor

More to know

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• Key ingredients: NeoGlucosamine, NeoCitrate (a patented ingredient of NeoStrata that claims to boost collagen production and plump the skin), amino acids
• Who it's for: Those with fine lines and wrinkles
• Fragrance-free: yes

Other neck creams we love

Best for Uneven Tone: StriVectin TL Advanced Tightening Neck Cream Plus

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StriVectin

TL Advanced Tightening Neck Plus

$99

Amazon

$99

Ulta Beauty

Why it's worth it: StriVectin's TL Advanced Tightening Neck Cream Plus is loved by both beauty editors and derms alike because of the brand's patented, high-performing ingredients. This cream features a niacinamide-powered technology called NIA-114 alongside a proprietary, bio-engineered peptide chain called Alpha-3 Peptide, which targets the production of collagen, elastin, and hyaluronic acid to help reduce the appearance of deep wrinkles, fine lines, and sagging skin along the neck, jawline, and décolleté in as little as four weeks. It also has shea butter and spilanthol, a botanically-derived fatty acid that plumps and moisturizes skin.

Tester feedback from features director Dianna Singh

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"The bad news: If you ever owned a cassette player, it's probably time to start using a neck cream. The good news: StriVectin TL Advanced Tightening Neck Cream+ exists. The formula has a rich, creamy texture that absorbs into skin surprisingly quickly. I've been using it on and off for the past couple of years, and I do believe it's kept my décolleté from looking less crepey than it would otherwise." —Dianna Singh, features director

More to know

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• Key ingredients: shea butter, hyaluronic acid, peptides, niacinamide
• Who it's for: those who want immediate and long-term benefits
• Fragrance-free: no

Best for Crepey Skin: SkinCeuticals Tripeptide R Neck Repair

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SkinCeuticals

Tripeptide R Neck Repair

$136

Dermstore

$136

SkinCeuticals

$135

Bluemercury

Why it's worth it: Living up to the SkinCeuticals hype is the Triple-R Neck Repair, a fragrance-free retinol cream that goes beyond the surface to treat the deeper layers, targeting a variety of signs of aging, including wrinkling and sagging. Dr. Hartman says that although it has retinol—a beloved active known to boost cell turnover and promote collagen production—SkinCeuticals uses a slow-release retinol that is far less likely to cause any dreaded irritation or unnecessary dryness. Plus, the formula has plenty of hydrators like glycerin and soybean oil to soothe skin. Dr. Hartman adds that the formula also contains peptides, which signal the skin to produce collagen, helping to plump and “fill in” smaller wrinkles.

Dr. Hartman uses Triple-R as part of his own skin-care routine, so if it’s good enough for someone who treats skin for a living, it’s certainly good enough for us (and you).

More to know

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• Key ingredients: 0.2% slow-release retinol, peptides, glaucine
• Who it's for: mature skin, normal-to-oily skin
• Fragrance-free: yes

Best Drugstore: Neutrogena Collagen Bank Moisturizer

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Neutrogena

Collagen Bank Moisturizer

$22 $18 (18% off)

Amazon

$30

Ulta Beauty

Why it's worth it: Neutrogena’s Collagen Bank Moisturizer may be marketed for the face, but Asheville, North Carolina-based board-certified dermatologist May Hall, DO, says it’s gentle enough for both the face and neck—making it a true two-in-one (and a solid bang for your buck). “It’s formulated with bakuchiol to support collagen production and peptides to help promote youthful skin,” she says. The formula also leans on reliable hydrators like shea butter and glycerin to keep skin plump and comfortable. It’s no surprise it won a 2025 Allure Best of Beauty Award in the Steals category.

Want to take things a step further? The SPF version—another editor-favorite collagen cream for daytime use—pairs those same peptides with chemical UV filters like avobenzone, adding daily sun protection to its collagen-supporting benefits.

Tester feedback from Singh

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“The best defense is a good offense, which is where Neutrogena Collagen Bank Moisturizer really shines: It helps you get ahead of the natural collagen loss that happens as we age. And the lightweight, nongreasy formula is easy to layer with other products." —Dianna Singh, features director

More to know

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• Key ingredients: hydrolyzed collagen, peptides
• Who it’s for: those with natural collagen loss
• Fragrance-free: yes

Best for Age Spots: Revision Skincare Nectifirm Advanced

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Revision Skincare

Nectifirm

$115

Amazon

$115

Dermstore

Why it's worth it: Revision Skincare Nectifirm Advanced, an iteration of the original Nectifirm for those experiencing more advanced signs of aging, is one of Dr. Collin’s go-to recommendations for more noticeable laxity and crepiness.” She touts its blend of peptides to improve elasticity, antioxidants like lingonberry extract for brightness, and plant-based ingredients like red microalgae extract to help improve firmness and texture. Another key ingredient is diglucosyl gallic acid, a melanin inhibitor that helps treat hyperpigmentation and dark spots. Although it comes at a hefty price point, it feels “incredibly luxurious” on the skin, absorbs quickly, and does much more than simply moisturize.

More to know

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• Key ingredients: lingonberry extract, red microalgea extract, peptides, diglucosyl gallic acid
• Who it's for: most skin types (not sensitive)
• Fragrance-free: no

Frequently Asked Questions

Why does neck skin age faster?

The skin on the neck is thinner and lacks the same oil composition as facial skin, which makes it more prone to dryness and sagging over time, Dr. Hartman explains. Combine that with gravity and the constant craning over smartphones, and it's an area uniquely at risk for fine lines and sagging. In other words, "tech neck" is very real.

What’s the difference between a face and neck cream?

“Because the skin is more delicate, neck creams are formulated to provide more intense hydration, with a higher concentration of actives that are more suitable for the skin on your neck,” Dr. Hall notes. Some moisturizing agents featured in the creams on this list are hyaluronic acid, shea butter, and squalane to keep the skin smooth and plump. Peptides are a newer area of exploration for neck creams as they're frequently touted for their skin-firming benefits.

What over-the-counter treatments and ingredients should I look out for?

Aside from the essential hydrators, retinol is a common additive because it promotes collagen production and, therefore, addresses the appearance of wrinkles and improves skin texture. "This can help with skin sagging, wrinkles, and some crepiness," says James Y. Wang, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in Los Angeles. "Since the neck is a sensitive area, the retinol concentrations tend to be low, and the results are subtle."

When should I consult with a dermatologist?

If you've noticed any difference in skin laxity around your neck and chest area, Dr. Wang recommends consulting a dermatologist for an evaluation of any inflammation, lumps, and nodules. He adds that significantly loose skin, like the so-called turkey neck, may require in-office interventions, but neck creams can still be beneficial for replenishing hydration and subtly decreasing the look of lines on the neck skin.

Meet the experts

• Mamina Turegano, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in New Orleans
• Corey L. Hartman, MD, a board-certified dermatologist in Birmingham, Alabama
• Noah Gratch, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in New York City
• Quynh-Giao Sartor, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in Houston
• James Y. Wang, MD, a board-certified dermatologist at Metropolis Dermatology in Los Angeles
• Anna Chacon, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in Miami
• Kristina Collins, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in Austin
• May Hall, DO, a board-certified dermatologist based in Asheville, North Carolina

How we test and review products

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

For our list of the best neck creams, we considered each product's performance across five primary categories: product ingredients and efficacy, packaging, fragrance, texture, and product wear. Every product was determined to have excelled in each category by our editorial team, which is composed of in-house writers and editors as well as contributors—along with special consideration from board-certified dermatologists. To learn more information on our reporting and testing processes, read our complete reviews process and methodology page.

Our staff and testers

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

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

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How the Readers' Choice Awards Work

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The Allure Readers' Choice Awards are entirely reader-voted. Each year, we invite our audience to vote for their favorite beauty products, brands, and creators across multiple categories. Voting remains open for a limited time, after which results are tallied and winners are announced on Allure.com. Learn more about how the Allure Readers’ Choice Awards work.

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The other day, my editor sent me a picture of Elizabeth Hurley. You know, the British model and actress who dated Hugh Grant and wore giant gold Versace safety pins held in place by panels of black fabric. (And that is my offensively reductive biography of Liz Hurley for those who didn’t grow up in the ’90s.) Anyway, the picture. Hurley as a Bond girl at a New Years Eve party in a white bikini with breasts up to here, legs up to there, and abs that can’t be faked with self-tanner. Thing is, the picture was a month old. Hurley is 60.

If we’re going to be honest, let’s be honest. There were things we were sold at a young age—let’s call them guarantees. Facts, givens, immutable truths. They were our true north. The earth was round, vaccines were good, and once you hit 50, the great big ahhhh of high-waisted jeans was waiting. Hollywood and the natural order of the world would have no interest in you so you are free to put yourself out to the pasture of flannels and day drinking.

Then we got flat-earthers. Next, anti-vaxxers, science-skeptics, data-deniers, truth-haters. True north became the Wild West.

Honestly, I can live with the idea that facts are now vibes. I can even entertain the possibility that we’re all riding an earth-sized Frisbee through space in a cosmic game of ultimate between the gods.

Just leave 50 alone.

We were told that 50 marked the beginning of…not giving up necessarily, but maybe caring less? Loosening the grip. Softening the edges. Sliding into puff sleeve tops and low expectations. And all the energy that we previously reserved for crunches could now be directed to more fulfilling pursuits than our physical presentation. Actually, it wasn’t even 50.

A few years ago, I was interviewing Jennifer Aniston for Allure. The subject of age came up. (Nicole Kidman, also during an Allure interview, would later tell me that I was “obsessed” with the topic after a particularly persistent series of questions.)

Aniston held up her phone. “Have you seen this?”

On her screen was a picture of Archie and Edith Bunker at the piano during the opening credits of All in the Family. Think back to their ’70s collars, their orthopedic shoes, the vaguely tragic wallpaper, and aesthetic of a retirement home that smells like canned soup. If you remember nothing else from All in the Family, you probably remember the Bunkers were 700 years old.

Above Carroll O’Connor was the number 46.
Above Jean Stapleton: 47.

“It can’t be,” I said.
“It is,” said Aniston.
“It can’t be,” I said again. The bargaining stage of grief.

“We have to fact check,” I said. I did. The TV people that looked to be well past retirement, were comfortably middle aged.

So who moved the goal posts? The answer, at least in part, is Aniston herself—along with every other ageless, unlined celebrity.

Jennifer Aniston, then age 53, had nothing to hide on the cover of Allure in 2022.

Photography by Zoey Grossman

Personally, when I got to 40, I gave up. But that only lasted 20 minutes. That’s how long it took me to see women my age wearing bikinis to yoga. The other 40s looked incredible. The best shape of their lives. Fine. Okay, I'll keep at it. Bikram every day. Shoes to wreck my lower back? So be it. Laser away that dark spot on my forehead, and sure why not, Botox. I remember an Allure coverline back in the days that Liz Hurley was wearing the safety pin dress: It was something like “Long Hair After 40 And Other Rules to Break.” Now it was more like a dare. So I let my hair fall well below my braline. And in a singular act of defiance, I got the Daisy Dukes out of storage.

This is 40: long hair and Daisy Dukes.

When confronted with the question of age, Paul Cavaco, the esteemed former creative director of Allure, used to say, “I only have so many shopping days left until Christmas.” So I told myself it wasn’t even Black Friday yet. Keep it up for a few more years and don’t worry, 50 and its cardigans will be there for you in due time.

Then, February 2, 2020 happened.

It was the JLo Super Bowl halftime show. And the only thing more exciting than Jennifer Lopez’s rhinestone-encrusted bikini was her age. Lopez, swinging her hair and her hips around a stripper pole in front of 120 million people, was 50. The “L” in her name was more like a roman numeral honorific than an initial.

If you ask me, that’s when the contract broke. The simulation jammed. It’s like we were all in the Matrix and it was glitching.

JLo showed the world what her version of 50 looks like at the 2020 Super Bowl.

We all knew empirically that 50 would come. But here’s the thing: When I got to 50, they moved the goal posts again. It wasn’t just JLo. One day I was shopping with my sister—my sister who is seven years older than I am. We wandered into Prada, which had just launched a collection of cashmere kilts, maybe 10 inches long but more like eight. I legitimately thought they were scarves—until my own sister grabbed one and tried it on. (True story: She bought it and I bought one for my daughter.)

Fact is that today the other 50s look better than the other 40s did. Forget 50 is the new 40; it’s more like the new 27. So, my question (my plea?) is: Do we ever get to give up?

Let me spoil it for you. Nope.

The social contract I was given stated: Sure, you can dye your greys, but keep your hair short and sensible. When she was my age, my own mother’s beauty routine was one part Elizabeth Arden Eight Hour Cream, one part highlights at the Kenneth Salon in midtown Manhattan. Indulgent, yes. Cutting edge, hardly. The message I got was that once you hit 50, “wash-and-go” is your demographic. That the age of “ageless” is 51 to 59. That you get to have the expensive moisturizer and keep up with eye cream. Sure, as long as there have been women in their 50s there have been facelifts (oh don’t be so literal). But a few decades ago, those facelifts were meant to yank up loose neck skin; they were not meant to make you look like you should be sharing clothes with your daughter. Back then, as you rounded the centennial halfway mark, exercise got to be tai chi. Or a walk with a friend. But today? Your Oura ring needs another five miles, thanks.

Do we ever get to give up? Nope: Here I am in my 50s.

Nowhere in my agreement with the universe, did anyone tell me that my sixth decade should make room for crop tops, bikinis, or HIIT classes with my own children. Ours was a promised land of generous cuts and anything that would hide what nature was pulling back into the earth.

The irony—I don’t even know if that’s the right word for this mishigas—is that Lopez later told me (again for an Allure interview) that once you hit 50, it all gets harder. What exactly gets harder? I should have asked. Looking your age?

When I interviewed Aniston, who is a few years older than I am, I asked her how to avoid the whole aging part of life. (Maybe Nicole Kidman was right about me?)

“I was working on a movie,” Aniston told me. “There was an older man working on the set. I’d seen him on a couple different jobs, and he never stopped working, working, working. I go, ‘you are impressive; I mean you never stop.’ And he just said, ‘I don’t let the old man in.’”

That was a nice metaphor. Like oldness was a thing on the front stoop and we could dead bolt the door and slide on the chain, then put on a Taylor Swift album, top off the tequila, and dance in front of the mirror.

But is this feminism? Legions of women claiming their power, owning their sexuality at the same time that they’re wearing HRT patches? Or is this the patriarchy with better lighting—the most influential women in the world succumbing to a man’s ideal of what we should look like? Is the driving force virtue-proselytizing from the creatine crowd? Or is it a signal that even though you can’t bear children, you still bring the world flat abs and perky boobs?

If you can answer that, please call me. Meanwhile, I’ll be looking at pictures of Gwyneth Paltrow with her daughter Apple Martin at the recent New York premiere of Marty Supreme. Apple in a slinky Calvin Klein dress that Gwyneth wore 29 years earlier at the premiere of Emma. Sweet. Sustainable! Psychologically destabilizing.

What’s interesting—by which I mean bananas nuts crazytown—is that Blythe Danner (at the Emma premiere) and Gwyneth Paltrow (at the Marty Supreme one) were the same age: 53. Two beautiful women, one who looked her age—short gray-blonde hair, a dress of Eileen Fisher proportions—and one who put aging on airplane mode.

Blythe Danner at age 53 with daughter Gwyneth Paltrow…

…and Gwyneth Paltrow at age 53 with daughter Apple Martin.

“When you write this, don’t make it sexist,” said my daughter over breakfast. Sixteen years old and pre-scolding me like a tiny HR department. I won’t make it sexist, I told her. I mean, the world already beat me to it. One side got Jennifer Lopez and Liz Hurley and Gwyneth Paltrow and Nicole Kidman. The other side got to have dad bods, cooler shoes than Archie Bunker’s, and maybe a side of testosterone. But we let them look their age. Old men are tolerated. We are no country for old women.

Back to that old man at the door for a minute.

Maybe I’ve been thinking about him all wrong. Maybe he’s not some nefarious force here to suck what remains of my collagen. Maybe he’s more like Santa Claus, an old benevolent version of future me, with a bag of wisdom and wit, acceptance and joy, the kind you only get after a few decades. I should probably get to know him better. He looks like he enjoys tequila.

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Don’t attack me, but I didn’t know what hemorrhoids were until last year, during my third trimester of pregnancy. I quickly became well-acquainted with the condition—swollen veins in the anus and lower rectum—thanks to the pressure from my growing uterus and baby. By two months postpartum, I was scraping the bottom of my last tub of hemorrhoid cream, certain I’d never have to see (or say) the word again. I was wrong.

Lately, my TikTok For You page has been flooded with women slathering hemorrhoid cream everywhere except where it was intended—most notably under their eyes and across fine lines—claiming it can tighten skin and smooth wrinkles. It’s not the first time people have come on the app talking about butt paste, either. Back in 2022, we’d reported that people were using the stuff to tackle undereye puffiness. While there is some logic behind that claim, dermatologists say the reality is far more complicated.

The trend has migrated south, from the undereye area to the neck. One comment on a TikTok video of a woman using a generic brand of hemorrhoid cream reads, “I was a derm nurse, and my 83-year-old dermatologist always recommended this to his patients when asked if there are nonsurgical options for turkey neck.” “I’m just gonna use it as an overall body lotion at this point,” another user writes.

So what exactly is giving people the impression that this is some sort of miracle cream? “Many [hemorrhoid creams] contain vasoconstrictors like phenylephrine, which temporarily shrink blood vessels,” says Mona Gohara, MD, a board-certified dermatologist in New York City. “That fleeting tightening effect can look like improvement on the skin.” In other words, the smoothing effect is real—but it’s short-lived. “It’s a cosmetic sleight of hand,” she adds. “There’s no true skin change.”

While it may be tempting to treat hemorrhoid cream as a multitasking fix, dermatologists advise against it. “The risks outweigh the benefits,” says Dr. Gohara. “The formulas in hemorrhoid creams can be irritating, disrupt the skin barrier, and over time may even thin the skin, especially if they contain topical steroids, which some hemorrhoid products do.”

That last point is especially important. According to Dr. Gohara, skin laxity and sagging are driven by collagen loss, elastin breakdown, sun damage, muscle banding, and overall structural changes—not just surface-level swelling. Temporarily constricting blood vessels won’t address any of that. In fact, repeatedly irritating delicate areas like the neck could potentially worsen crepey texture over time.

Ellen Marmur, MD, a board-certified dermatologist in New York City, also warns that, in addition to phenylephrine, some hemorrhoid creams may contain hydrocortisone, an ingredient that should absolutely not go on your face. "Hydrocortisone can be absorbed through the skin into the bloodstream to cause systemic side effects in other parts of your body," De Anne Harris Collier, MD, a Florida-based, board-certified dermatologist, previously told Allure."Because hydrocortisone is a steroid, usage over time can affect your adrenal glands, which are responsible for your body’s response to stress." Dr. Collier adds.

There are safer, more effective ways to address your skin concerns. For neck tightening and sagging, try neck firming creams with retinol; for puffy undereyes, try peptide eye creams; for fine lines and wrinkles, try creams with hyaluronic acid, ceramides, and retinol.

The promise of temporary tightening may be tempting, but for real results—and healthier skin—dermatologist-backed options are the smarter investment. So, leave the hemorrhoid cream behind!