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TL;DR:

• What it is: An antioxidant-packed face mask
• What it does: Deep-cleans and brightens skin with five different berries and kaolin clay
• Who it’s for: Anyone looking for a quick glow with little to no effort

Although I know most of us would like to forget 2020 (and maybe 2021 and 2022, too), there was some good that came from our time spent in quarantine. Not only did I catch up on my reading list, FaceTime my family more than ever, but I also picked up (and then promptly quit) a few new hobbies. DIY beauty was one of them.

In the name of budgeting and a little bit of experimentation, I slathered on a few too many face masks made from ingredients found in the bottom of my refrigerator in an effort to give my sad, dull skin a glow. Did it work? Maybe? But after a handful of homemade mixes, I got the ick. Since then, I’ve fully moved on from the DIY world and am back in the land of lab-tested ingredients (I love it here!), which means the only things being slathered on my face are in final packaging and have ingredient labels.

One of the most recent treatments I’ve tried (and very much enjoyed) is the Aceology Here We Glow Berry Mask. The creamy yogurt look-alike may not be edible, but it certainly offers impressive antioxidant perks, just like the juicy fruits.

It’s made with kaolin to deep-clean and five different berries to fight free-radical damage (wrinkles, dark spots), so on days when my skin is looking a little lackluster, this is what I reach for.

Here’s how I use it: After cleansing my skin, I gently slather on a dime- to nickel-sized dollop from my forehead to my chin. Then I grab a spot on my couch, turn on Heated Rivalry (yes, I’m still obsessed months later), and wait for my new, dewy glow to kick in.

The Aceology Here We Glow Berry Mask was in the June Allure Beauty Box.

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Aceology Here We Glow Berry Mask

$69 at Aceology$69 at Aceology

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

Sunscreen has a reputation for being chalky and hard to blend, but we’re here to ease your fears of ghostly white casts with the best mineral sunscreens. Of course, we all (should) know by now that sunscreen is a non-negotiable part of any skin-care routine, but even the most lauded formulas have varying qualities. Chemical-based options absorb into the skin to filter UV rays (a process we’ll get into below), and then there are mineral-based sunscreens, also known as physical sunscreens or sunblock. These formulas create a mineral-based barrier over your delicate skin to literally block UV rays (and reflect them away from skin) to keep them from potentially damaging the DNA in your cells. Because mineral UV filters don’t penetrate the skin, they’re usually gentler on sensitive skin. The downside? They tend to leave darker skin tones with an ashy finish. But don't worry, our picks pass the test. Check out our all-time favorite mineral sunscreens for all-encompassing daytime protection and glowy, non-ashy finishes.

Our Top Mineral Sunscreens

• Best Overall Untinted: SkinCeuticals Future Mineral UV Defense Sunscreen SPF 50, $60
• Best Overall Tinted: Supergoop Mineral Mattescreen SPF 40, $40
• Best for Acne-Prone Skin: EltaMD UV Clear Acne Blemish-Prone & Oil Balancing SPF 50, $49
• Best for Mature Skin: Alastin HydraTint Pro Mineral Sunscreen SPF 36, $84

Frequently Asked QuestionsAccordionItemContainerButtonLargeChevron

• What's the difference between chemical and mineral sunscreens?
• Who should use mineral sunscreen?
• Meet the experts
• How we test and review products
• Our staff and testers

Best Overall Untinted: SkinCeuticals Future Mineral UV Defense Sunscreen SPF 50

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SkinCeuticals

Future Mineral UV Defense Sunscreen SPF 50

$60

Bluemercury

Allure contributing commerce writer Christa Joanna Lee applying the SkinCeuticals Future Mineral UV Defense Sunscreen SPF 50

Christa Joanna Lee

Why it’s worth it: A telltale white cast tends to come with the (mineral) territory—blame the filters for that—but the SkinCeuticals Future Mineral UV Defense Sunscreen SPF 50 has managed to outsmart it. SkinCeuticals uses Z-Cote, a microfine form of zinc oxide with particles much smaller than those of traditional mineral filters, allowing the formula to blend in with a nearly invisible finish. Beyond broad-spectrum SPF 50 protection, it’s packed with niacinamide and panthenol to support the skin barrier, calm redness, and promote a more even-looking tone. “This is especially great for mature skin since it adds the benefit of integrating actives to improve the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, and discoloration,” says Jane Yoo, MD, a dual board-certified dermatologist based in New York City. The lightweight, almost serum-like texture melts into skin without pilling or feeling heavy under makeup.

Lee before applying the SkinCeuticals Future Mineral UV Defense Sunscreen SPF 50

Christa Joanna Lee

Lee after applying the SkinCeuticals Future Mineral UV Defense Sunscreen SPF 50

Christa Joanna Lee

Tester feedback from contributing commerce writer Christa Joanna Lee

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“I had a true wait, this is mineral? moment with this sunscreen. It pours out like a lightweight serum that’s slightly opaque at first, then it disappears completely into my skin without a trace. True to form, the brand packs in plenty of nourishing skin-care ingredients, and makeup layers over it effortlessly. Now I just need this in a body lotion version.” —Christa Joanna Lee, contributing commerce writer

More to know

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• Key ingredients: 15.35% zinc oxide, 2.66% titanium dioxide, 3% niacinamide, 0.5% panthenol, 0.1% beta glucan, and 2% cellulose
• Fragrance-free: yes

Best Overall Tinted: Supergoop Mineral Mattescreen SPF 40

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Supergoop

Mineral Mattescreen SPF 40

$40

Amazon

$40

Nordstrom

$40

Dermstore

Allure managing editor Alessandra Foresto applying the Supergoop! Mineral Mattescreen SPF 40

Alessandra Foresto

Why it’s worth it: If you don’t want to take any chances with a white cast, Supergoop's Mineral Mattescreen SPF 40 is one of the most blendable mineral sunscreens to reach for. The tinted formula (here, in the form of iron oxides) “offsets zinc oxide’s naturally chalky white base, so the formula blends in more seamlessly with skin,” Sherry Backman, a cosmetic chemist based in Brattleboro, Vermont, previously told Allure. Skin-conditioning polymers like dimethicone create a velvety, primer-like texture that blurs the look of pores and fine lines, leaving behind a soft, matte finish that’s especially flattering on oily or combo skin. Meanwhile, antioxidant-rich bamboo extract defends against free-radical damage, making this multitasking sunscreen a go-to choice for anyone who wants mineral protection, a subtle tint, and smoother-looking texture in a single step.

Foresto before applying the Supergoop! Mineral Mattescreen SPF 40

Alessandra Foresto

Foresto after applying the Supergoop! Mineral Mattescreen SPF 40

Alessandra Foresto

Tester feedback from managing editor Alessandra Foresto

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“I've been a fan of this tinted matte mineral sunscreen from Supergoop since it only came in one universal shade. I'm even more of a fan now that they have extended their range to better match my skin tone (I use shade Golden Hour). I love wearing it on its own on a summer day when I don't feel like wearing a full face of makeup, for a little coverage over my dark spots. But it's also by far the best sunscreen to use under makeup because it acts as a smoothing, grippy primer that helps my foundation, concealer, or skin tint (whatever I feel like that day) go on more evenly and stay on longer.” —Alessandra Foresto, managing editor

More to know

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• Shades: 3
• Key ingredients: 1.33% titanium dioxide, 17.42% zinc oxide, dimethicone, bamboo
• Fragrance-free: yes

Best for Acne-Prone Skin: EltaMD UV Clear Acne Blemish-Prone & Oil Balancing SPF 50

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EltaMD

UV Clear Acne Blemish-Prone & Oil Balancing SPF 50

$49

Amazon

$49

EltaMD

Allure senior staff writer Elizabeth Gulino applying the EltaMD UV Clear Acne Blemish-Prone & Oil Balancing SPF 50

Elizabeth Gulino

Why it’s worth it: EltaMD’s latest UV Clear Acne Blemish-Prone & Oil Balancing SPF 50 is everything you love about the 2025 Best of Beauty-winning UV Skin Recovery Broad-Spectrum SPF 50, but tailored for acne-prone or oily skin. This version pairs 11% zinc oxide and 3.5% octinoxate (a UVB filter that boosts sun protection while keeping the formula lightweight) with 5% niacinamide to soothe redness, even out skin tone, and minimize excess oil throughout the day. The brand’s proprietary ZincAOXPro Technology also provides antioxidant protection against UV rays, blue light, pollution, and other environmental stressors. Best of all, it maintains the elegant, non-greasy feel that made the original so popular—just with extra support for shine, congestion, and post-blemish marks.

Gulino before applying the EltaMD UV Clear Acne Blemish-Prone & Oil Balancing SPF 50

Elizabeth Gulino

Gulino after applying the EltaMD UV Clear Acne Blemish-Prone & Oil Balancing SPF 50

Elizabeth Gulino

Tester feedback from senior staff writer Elizabeth Gulino

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"It’s no secret that EltaMD has the best of the best sunscreens. I’m a longtime user of the brand’s tinted version of UV Clear, but have recently started using the new UV Clear Blemish-Prone & Oil Balancing SPF 50 in my routine. As someone who wears SPF every day and is prone to getting oily in my T-zone, this has been a life saver. When I wear this—especially under makeup—I find myself not needing to powder my face mid-day. The best part? It’s clinically proven to reduce excess oil over time, so the more you wear it the better it works.” —Elizabeth Gulino, senior staff writer

More to know

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• Key ingredients: 11% zinc oxide, 3.5% octinoxate, 5% niacinamide
• Fragrance-free: yes

Best for Dry Skin: Ilia Sun Serum Mineral Sunscreen SPF 50

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Ilia

Sun Serum Mineral Sunscreen SPF 50

$40

Sephora

$40

Ilia

Allure creative producer Sydney Malone applying the Ilia Sun Serum Mineral Sunscreen SPF 50

Sydney Malone

Why it’s worth it: When we had five editors spanning a range of skin tones put Ilia’s Sun Serum Mineral Sunscreen SPF 50 to the test, it won over even mineral-sunscreen skeptics. Despite containing a hefty 10.5% zinc oxide, the formula glides on like a hydrating serum and leaves skin looking fresh and dewy. What makes it particularly great for dry skin is its blend of seven forms of hyaluronic acid, which pull moisture into the skin and counteract the dryness mineral SPFs can sometimes cause. The formula also comes in two adaptable tinted shades: light-medium and medium-deep. “I am a longtime user of mineral sunscreen, and I have never experienced anything like this,” says senior commerce director Shanna Shipin. “This is such an elegant formula that is so lightweight, it performs like a chemical sunscreen—I can hardly believe that there are mineral blockers in it.”

Malone before applying the Ilia Sun Serum Mineral Sunscreen SPF 50

Sydney Malone

Malone after applying the Ilia Sun Serum Mineral Sunscreen SPF 50

Sydney Malone

Tester feedback from creative producer Sydney Malone

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“I have combination skin, so I am always wary of products that will either dry me out or make me appear too oily—I prefer a happy medium. This is especially true of sunscreens, because I have found that there are either mineral formulas that often leave an ashy appearance or sheer ones that are supposed to give a ‘glow’ but, in reality, make me look sweaty.

When I first squeezed this product out of the bottle, I was scared by the tone of brown that the product was because it seemed like it would be ashy. However, I was pleasantly surprised by how well it applied to my skin and settled. It felt like that perfect mix I look for, and honestly, it was the most impressed I’ve ever been with a facial sunscreen. I didn’t look sweaty; I didn’t look ashy. In fact, you almost couldn’t even tell it was on, which I loved.

It has a super natural finish, and I wore it for almost nine hours before I washed my face at night, and it never changed. It gave my holy grail sunscreen a run for its money.” —Sydney Malone, creative producer

More to know

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• Shades: 2
• Key ingredients: 10.5% zinc oxide
• Fragrance-free: yes

Best for Mature Skin: Alastin HydraTint Pro Mineral Sunscreen SPF 36

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Alastin Skincare

HydraTint Pro Mineral Sunscreen SPF 36

$84

Amazon

Lee applying the Alastin HydraTint Pro Mineral Sunscreen SPF 36

Christa Joanna Lee

Why it’s worth it: If your ideal makeup routine is "less is more,” Alastin's HydraTint Pro Mineral Sunscreen SPF 36 may be all you need. “It functions as a hybrid between sunscreen and complexion product,” Anetta Reszko, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in New York City, previously told Allure. The sheer tint even out redness and discoloration enough that many people can skip foundation entirely, though it still wears nicely under makeup if you want more coverage. Zinc oxide and titanium dioxide provide broad-spectrum protection, while ectoin supports the skin barrier and keeps skin hydrated, so makeup is less likely to catch on dry patches. Even better, the formula goes beyond sun protection, featuring antioxidants such as phytoene, phytofluene, and hydroxymethoxyphenyl decanone, which defend against pollution and other environmental stressors. Though it only comes in one shade, “the tint blends easily for most skin tones,” May Hall, DO, a double board-certified dermatologist based in Asheville, North Carolina, previously said.

Lee before applying the Alastin HydraTint Pro Mineral Sunscreen SPF 36

Christa Joanna Lee

Lee after applying the Alastin HydraTint Pro Mineral Sunscreen SPF 36

Christa Joanna Lee

Tester feedback from Lee

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“As someone with sensitive and fair skin, I’m usually picky about mineral sunscreens, and I was a little hesitant that Alastin's Skincare HydraTint Pro Mineral Sunscreen SPF 36 only comes in one shade—but the tint is sheer enough to cancel out any chalkiness. I definitely wouldn't personally say it’s in makeup territory, but it does add just enough to even out your skin. It blends in beautifully and absorbs quickly, but I usually sweep another layer of my favorite dewy serum foundation to even out my melasma more.” —Lee, contributing commerce writer

More to know

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• Shade: 1
• Key ingredients: 3.4% zinc oxide, 8.9% titanium dioxide, ectoin, phytoene, phytofluene, Thermus thermophilus ferment
• Fragrance-free:

Best Under Makeup: Summer Fridays ShadeDrops SPF 50 Mineral Milk Sunscreen

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Summer Fridays

ShadeDrops SPF 50 Mineral Milk Sunscreen

$38

Amazon

$38

Sephora

Allure senior commerce director Shanna Shipin applying the Summer Fridays ShadeDrops SPF 50 Mineral Milk Sunscreen

Shanna Shipin

Why it’s worth it: If you liked the original Summer Fridays ShadeDrops, there's plenty to love about the updated version. The reformulation boosts protection to SPF 50 and combines 9.4% zinc oxide with titanium dioxide for broader UV coverage, all while maintaining the weightless feel that made the original such a favorite. (Just don't let the higher SPF fool you into skipping reapplication—the higher SPF simply means more protection against UVB rays.) It also features a lineup of skin-care staples, including ectoin, ceramides, allantoin, and chamomile extract to hydrate, soothe, and support the skin barrier. True to its name, ShadeDrops feels more like a lightweight, milky serum than a traditional mineral sunscreen. For dry or sensitive skin, it's an easy way to get daily sun protection without the heaviness or chalkiness mineral SPFs are often known for.

Shipin before applying the Summer Fridays ShadeDrops SPF 50 Mineral Milk Sunscreen

Shanna Shipin

Shipin after applying the Summer Fridays ShadeDrops SPF 50 Mineral Milk Sunscreen

Shanna Shipin

Tester feedback from Shipin

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“I am so happy Summer Fridays reformulated this product to boost the Mineral Milk to SPF 50! I was already a fan of the original, but there's so much more to love about this new version. The packaging, for one, is so cute—a happy tangerine with a more luxe finish that won't discolor over time (unlike the original!)—and the formula itself isn't as runny. It's just as lightweight and a bit smoother, and I love that it leaves my skin with a glowing (but not greasy) finish. This product is probably best for drier skin types. It's hydrating (thanks to glycerin and a ceramide complex in the formula), but I can see it being a hair too glowy on someone looking for a matte or more natural finish. I typically only wear skin tints, so I love the extra glowy-skin boost that this SPF provides! And it never competes with anything I layer over it: blush, bronzer, setting spray—they all play so well on top of this formula.” —Shipin, senior commerce director

More to know

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• Key ingredients: 5.93% zinc oxide, 5.46% titanium dioxide, shea butter, ceramides, glycerin
• Fragrance-free: yes

Best Lightweight: Koolsol by Knours Ultra Light Invisible Mineral Sunscreen SPF 50

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Koolsol by Knours

Ultra Light Invisible Mineral Sunscreen SPF 50

$22

Amazon

$25

Soko Glam

Allure commerce editor Sarah Han applying the Koolsol by Knours Ultra Light Invisible Mineral Sunscreen SPF 50

Sarah Han

Why it’s worth it: K-beauty has earned a reputation for making sunscreens people actually want to wear, and Knours’ Koolsol Ultra Light Invisible Mineral Sunscreen SPF 50 is a perfect example. If you applied this with your eyes closed, you'd probably assume it was a lightweight hydrating lotion, not a zinc oxide-powered sunscreen. The formula is also packed with beloved Korean skin-care ingredients, including soothing Centella asiatica, plus there’s aloe, niacinamide, and panthenol to soothe irritation, support the skin barrier, and boost hydration. Snow mushroom extract acts like a natural moisture magnet, helping skin stay plump and dewy throughout the day.

Han before applying the Koolsol by Knours Ultra Light Invisible Mineral Sunscreen SPF 50

Sarah Han

Han after applying the Koolsol by Knours Ultra Light Invisible Mineral Sunscreen SPF 50

Sarah Han

Tester feedback from commerce editor Sarah Han

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“I have never met a Korean mineral sunscreen—or any mineral sunscreen, especially untinted—that has this close to the feel of a chemical sunscreen. As you probably know, no mineral sunscreen can be 100% cast-free (zinc oxide starts as a white powder, after all!), but Koolsol Ultra Light Invisible Mineral Sunscreen SPF 50 leaves my complexion looking almost indiscernibly the same. I only notice the teeniest tinge of cast in real life, but I honestly don't think an observer would. (At least my boyfriend, who stares at my face quite a lot, couldn't tell!) It applies so elegantly, like a lightweight moisturizer, and leaves my skin looking dewy, but not overly so. I'd never thought I'd say such a thing, but I think I even prefer this mineral option over Knours' chemical SPF (which is also nice, to be fair)!” —Sarah Han, commerce editor

More to know

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• Key ingredients: 10% zinc oxide, niacinamide, snow mushroom, aloe, Centella asiatica
• Fragrance-free: yes

Best Drugstore: La Roche-Posay Anthelios 50 Mineral Ultra Light Sunscreen

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La Roche-Posay

Anthelios 50 Mineral Ultra Light Sunscreen

$43 $30 (30% off)

Amazon

$43

Dermstore

$43

Ulta Beauty

Allure contributing commerce editor Deanna Pai applying La Roche-Posay Anthelios 50 Mineral Ultra Light Sunscreen

Deanna Pai

Why it’s worth it: Shari Marchbein, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in New York City, is a certified fan of La Roche-Posay’s Anthelios 50 Mineral Ultra Light Sunscreen for its ultra-sheer finish and high-grade protection. "It has a subtle mattifying effect that's perfect to wear under makeup," she adds. The formula is fortified with nourishing and barrier-strengthening vitamin E oil to make this pick extra worth your while. And, as with any La Roche-Posay stunner, the brand’s proprietary Thermal Spring Water makes a welcome appearance. If you’re also looking to even out your skin tone, there’s a tinted version that leaves a healthy glow.

Pai before applying La Roche-Posay Anthelios 50 Mineral Ultra Light Sunscreen

Deanna Pai

Pai after applying La Roche-Posay Anthelios 50 Mineral Ultra Light Sunscreen

Deanna Pai

Tester feedback from contributing commerce editor Deanna Pai

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"I don't typically trust untinted mineral sunscreens, since they almost always leave a white cast on my olive skin. Not this one! It's practically perfect: It doesn't have a weird scent, absorbs quickly, and even seems to control the shine on my nose, leaving my very oily T-zone looking more matte, but not flat or one-dimensional. The tube also holds a ton of product, too, so it can last me through a beach trip and then some." —Deanna Pai, contributing commerce editor

More to know

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• Key ingredients: 6% titanium dioxide, 5% zinc oxide, vitamin E oil, La Roche-Posay Thermal Spring Water
• Fragrance-free: yes

Highest SPF: Shiseido Ultimate Sun Protector Lotion Mineral SPF 60+

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Shiseido

Ultimate Sun Protector Lotion Mineral SPF 60+

$52

Amazon

$52

Nordstrom

Allure senior editor Jesa Marie Calaor applying the Shiseido Urban Environment Oil-Free Mineral Clear Sunscreen SPF 42

Jesa Marie Calaor

Why it’s worth it: We've been fans of Shiseido's chemical and hybrid sunscreens for well over a decade, so when the brand finally introduced a 100% mineral formula, expectations were understandably high. Thankfully, Ultimate Sun Protector Lotion Mineral SPF 60+ lives up to them. Despite offering SPF 60+ protection, it feels lightweight and comfortable on the skin. While it dispenses as a milky white lotion, it dries down to a virtually invisible finish across a wide range of skin tones. Beyond UV protection, the formula is packed with antioxidant-rich botanical extracts to defend against UV-induced signs of aging, soothing licorice root extract, and a blend of five types of algae that keep skin hydrated and comfortable throughout the day. There's also an adorably petite travel-size version, making midday reapplication much easier.

Calaor before applying the Shiseido Urban Environment Oil-Free Mineral Clear Sunscreen SPF 42

Jesa Marie Calaor

Calaor after applying the Shiseido Urban Environment Oil-Free Mineral Clear Sunscreen SPF 42

Jesa Marie Calaor

Tester feedback from senior editor Jesa Marie Calaor

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"With my extra-dry complexion, I am always looking for hydrating products that leave me with a summery, dewy glow. This sunscreen gives me exactly that. The mineral formula is more like a fluid than a lotion, and quickly melts down to blend in with my medium-tan skin." —Jesa Marie Calaor, senior editor

More to know

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• Key ingredients: 5.7% titanium dioxide, 5.9% zinc oxide, raspberry extract, witch hazel, glycerin, algae
• Fragrance-free: yes

More mineral sunscreens we love:

• For an honest-to-goodness skin tint that doubles as an SPF, try Saie’s Slip Tint Dewy Tinted Moisturizer SPF 35—one of Shipin’s ride-or-die products. As its zinc oxide-based formula guards against skin-damaging UV rays, its 14 flexible tints work to even out discoloration and blemishes while still looking natural and non-cakey.
• Mature skin needs a sunscreen that treats accumulated damage, and that calls for Isdin’s Eryfotona Actinica Ultralight Emulsion SPF 50+. While anyone can enjoy this formula, it’s especially ideal for people treating substantial sun damage from burns and/or age spots caused by years in the sun. Also in the mix is vitamin E to repair barrier damage and guard against free radicals.
• Midday SPF touch-ups are made easy with the Colorescience Sunforgettable Total Protection Brush-On Shield SPF 50. This convenient, self-dispensing brush shields skin with all-mineral UV filters and adds a dose of hydration, thanks to hyaluronic acid powder. (Pai loves that she can sweep it onto skin mid-pool day to re-up protection and sop up shine on her forehead.) The four shades, ranging from Fair to Deep, make reapplying sunscreen (every two hours or so) a piece of cake.

Frequently Asked Questions

What's the difference between chemical and mineral sunscreens?

While chemical sunscreens feature UV filters that absorb onto skin, mineral sunscreens sit on the surface of your skin, physically reflecting and scattering "a wide range of UV wavelengths," as New York City-based, board-certified dermatologist Hadley King, MD, explains. These wavelengths include UVB rays, which are responsible for sunburns, and UVA rays, which cause longer-term issues like hyperpigmentation, fine lines, and skin cancer.

According to Adarsh Vijay Mudgil, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in New York City, "Chemical-free sunscreens should only contain ​zinc oxide and/or titanium dioxide as their active ingredients." (It's important to note that hybrid formulas exist and contain the aforementioned ingredients plus chemical-based sunscreen compounds, so always triple-check the ingredients label.)

Who should use mineral sunscreen?

"Chemical sunscreens can be irritating and allergenic for some folks," explains Dr. Mudgil. And it turns out that "some folks," according to board-certified dermatologist Corey L. Hartman, MD, based in Birmingham, Alabama, is a whopping "25% of all people," he told Allure. If that statement rings true for you, it's time to consider a physical sunscreen with non-chemical shields. They reduce the risk of irritation to practically zero, due to "organic, inert, and hypoallergenic" formulas, Dr. Mudgil explains. Incidentally, sunscreens that don't contain chemical protectants are generally healthier for coral reefs. (In fact, Hawaii banned the sale of products with chemical filters oxybenzone and octinoxate altogether.) However, take the term "reef-safe" with a grain of salt, as it's not regulated.

Meet the experts

• Sherry Backman, a cosmetic chemist based in Brattleboro, Vermont
• May Hall, DO, a double board-certified dermatologist based in Asheville, North Carolina
• Shereene Idriss, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in New York City
• Hadley King, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in New York City
• Shari Marchbein, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in New York City
• Adarsh Vijay Mudgil, MD, a board-certified dermatologist and medical director of Mudgil Dermatology in New York City
• Morgan Rabach, MD, a clinical assistant professor of dermatology at Mount Sinai in New York City
• Anetta Reszko, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in New York City
• Jane Yoo, MD, a dual board-certified dermatologist and Mohs surgeon based in New York City

How we test and review products

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

For our list of the best mineral sunscreens, 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 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.

We have the highest standards for sunscreens—keep reading for a formula that suits your needs and preferences:

• 7 Best Korean Sunscreens to Complete Your Glass Skin Routine
• 7 Best Sunscreens Under Makeup for Smooth, Pill-Free Wear
• 8 Best Sunscreens for Mature Skin That Protect and Plump All at Once

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The best concealers for dark spots do more than simply cover up marks: They correct, protect, and in many cases, actively improve the skin beneath the makeup. Whether you're dealing with post-acne marks, sun-induced hyperpigmentation, or stubborn undereye circles that no amount of sleep (or eye cream) seems to fix, the right concealer can make all the difference. But not all formulas are created equal, and knowing what to look for is half the battle.

Our Top Concealers for Dark Spots

• Best Overall: Tarte Shape Tape Concealer, $32
• Best Full-Coverage: Estée Lauder Double Wear Stay-in-Place 24-Hour Concealer, $38
• Best Medium-Coverage: Kulfi Main Match Concealer, $26
• Best Natural Finish: Nars Soft Matte Complete Concealer, $36
• Best for Dark Circles: MAC Studio Fix 36HR Smooth Angles Hydrating Concealer, $30

Frequently Asked QuestionsAccordionItemContainerButtonLargeChevron

• What’s the best application technique for using concealer on dark spots or hyperpigmentation?
• What should you look for when shopping for full coverage concealers?
• Meet the experts
• How we test and review products
• Our staff and testers

Coverage is the starting point. Full coverage is ideal for deeper discoloration, while a buildable medium lends a natural-looking finish. But the formulation ultimately determines performance. Ingredients like hyaluronic acid, caffeine, peptides, and brighteners such as licorice root extract and vitamin C help improve skin over time. Finish matters, too: A matte formula offers longevity and oil control, while a dewy finish keeps skin looking fresh and dimensional.

Ahead, these nine dark spot concealers are editor- and makeup artist-approved and cover every skin tone, type, and concern.

Best Overall: Tarte Shape Tape Concealer

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Tarte

Shape Tape Concealer

$32 $30 (6% off)

Amazon

$32

Sephora

$32

Ulta Beauty

Allure editorial assistant Jennet Jusu applying the Tarte Shape Tape Concealer

Jennet Jusu

Why we love it: Tarte’s Shape Tape Concealer keeps coverage smooth and even, with no caking, creasing, or fading all day. It has a matte finish, since a radiant link could inadvertently draw attention to the spot. The waterproof formula is built around licorice root extract, a natural brightener and color corrector that works directly on dark spots and discoloration to help even tone over time. Shea and mango butters, along with olive oil, work in tandem to soften, nourish, and condition the skin beneath all that coverage, preventing the tight, dry feeling that heavier matte compositions can leave behind. Plus, the jumbo applicator makes targeted application on dark spots, blemishes, and under-eye shadows quick and precise.

Jusu before applying the Tarte Shape Tape Concealer

Jennet Jusu

Jusu after applying the Tarte Shape Tape Concealer

Jennet Jusu

Tester feedback from editorial assistant Jennet Jusu

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“I use Tarte Shape Tape Radiant Concealer in 47H (Tan-Deep Honey) to brighten under my eyes, and the Shape Tape Contour Concealer in 53H (Deep Honey) to cover up hyperpigmentation while subtly contouring for an everyday glow. A little goes a long way, and paired with a touch of blush, it pulls the whole look together effortlessly.” —Jennet Jusu, editorial assistant

More to know

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• Key ingredients: licorice root extract, shea and mango butters, olive oil
• Shades: 48
• Finish: matte

Best Full-Coverage: Estée Lauder Double Wear Stay-in-Place 24-Hour Concealer

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Estée Lauder

Double Wear Stay-in-Place 24-Hour Concealer

$38 $30 (21% off)

Amazon

$38

Nordstrom

$38

Sephora

Allure editor in chief Jessica Cruel applying the Estée Lauder Double Wear Stay-in-Place 24-Hour Concealer

Jessica Cruel

Why we love it: If your dark spots tend to resurface during the day, try Estée Lauder's Double Wear Stay-in-Place 24-Hour Longwear Concealer, which stays put even on oily skin. In fact, this full-coverage, Best of Beauty-winning formula targets oil at its source with lightweight silica particles that absorb oil and diffuse light to keep shine in check for a full day. That's also thanks in part to a system of flexible polymers that move with the skin throughout the day, allowing for breathable wear that won't crack or shift through long hours or humid conditions. (It's great for mature skin, too, as it won't settle into fine lines.)

As for dark circles, caffeine (yes, your skin gets a hit, too) helps to depuff and energize the undereye area. The proprietary wand does some heavy lifting on the application front: It has three distinct edges that make it easy to spot-conceal, highlight, or contour.

Cruel before applying the Estée Lauder Double Wear Stay-in-Place 24-Hour Concealer

Jessica Cruel

Cruel after applying the Estée Lauder Double Wear Stay-in-Place 24-Hour Concealer

Jessica Cruel

Tester feedback from editor in chief Jessica Cruel

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“I am a big Double Wear foundation fan, so when this concealer came across my desk, it was a must-try. It is a bit thicker than your average concealer—something the Double Wear formula is known for. What I like is that one swipe erases the panda pads under my eyes. Because it is already full-coverage, I like to use my fingers to blend the formula naturally. That way it's not too cakey or splotchy. I often just use this concealer instead of foundation. This product has a 24-hour claim, but I have never put it to that long of a test. The farthest I have gotten is a marathon day of live TV filming, in-office meetings, and dinner events. It stood up through all of that, which is what a busy woman needs.” —Jessica Cruel, editor in chief

More to know

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• Key ingredients: micro silica spheres, sodium hyaluronate, caffeine
• Shades: 29
• Finish: natural

Best Medium-Coverage: Kulfi Main Match Concealer

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Kulfi

Main Match Concealer

$26

Sephora

Allure content director Sophie Panych applying the Kulfi Main Match Concealer

Sophie Panych

Why we love it: We trust BIPOC-founded brands to get their shade ranges right, and Kulfi is no exception. The Main Match Concealer is available in 22 shades, with careful consideration for South Asian undertones (which are often breezed by). Staying true to its South Asian roots, key ingredients include amla fruit extract (more commonly known as Indian gooseberry oil), which is rich in vitamin C to brighten bouts of hyperpigmentation and protect skin against free radicals (which can fast-track signs of aging). Also noteworthy: Saffron flower extract boosts moisture, and rosehip oil "helps tone, even, brighten, and reduce the signs of redness in the skin," Los Angeles-based cosmetic chemist Laura Lam-Phaure previously explained.

Ingredients aside, the formula itself is incredibly lightweight and seamlessly blendable, yet it provides all of the coverage we need—our editors even forego foundation—and the finish is natural and skin-like. Because it's on the hydrating side, it's a dream for dry skin—but combination and oily skin might want to blot on some powder on top for a bit of shine control.

Panych before applying the Kulfi Main Match Concealer

Sophie Panych

Panych after applying the Kulfi Main Match Concealer

Sophie Panych

Tester feedback from Allure content director Sophie Panych

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"I prefer concealer to foundation, meaning, I typically apply a skin tint or very thin layer of foundation, and let my concealer do all the heavy lifting, i.e., cover up dark spots, soften dark spots, and even out redness in my skin. As I get closer to 40, it's harder to find a full-coverage concealer that doesn't look full-on cakey once it sets, but Kulfi Main Match is one I've found that stays fresh-looking for hours.

Over my base (again, which is either a very light layer of foundation or skin tint), I apply two dashes under each eye, a dot on either side of my nose, and a dash along my chin. Then, I use a small fluffy brush to buff and blend the formula, which is a great way to keep concealer from settling into creases. It's quite hydrating, so you do want to set it with powder, especially if you have combination-oily skin like mine." —Sophie Panych, content director

More to know

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• Key ingredients: amla fruit extract, saffron flower extract, rosehip extract, licorice
• Shades: 22
• Finish: radiant

Best Buildable: Tom Ford Traceless Soft Matte Concealer

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Tom Ford

Traceless Soft Matte Concealer

$60

Nordstrom

$60

Sephora

$60

Bluemercury

Allure contributor Jailynn Taylor applying the Tom Ford Traceless Soft Matte Concealer

Jailynn Taylor

Why we love it: Concealing dark spots is only half the job for the Tom Ford Traceless Soft Matte Concealer. This foundation stick blends buildable coverage with hours of hydration, thanks to hyaluronic acid that plumps skin from within and visibly softens the look of fine lines both immediately and over time. Spherical powders ensure a silky-smooth, seamless application that never looks cakey or settles into creases, while vitamin E delivers antioxidant protection throughout the day. Like its Best of Beauty-winning foundation counterpart, Traceless offers a natural-matte finish that's waterproof, transfer-resistant, and humidity-proof. Apply directly from the stick for broader coverage, or use a concealer brush to spot-treat blemishes and dark spots with precision.

Taylor before applying the Tom Ford Traceless Soft Matte Concealer

Jailynn Taylor

Taylor after applying the Tom Ford Traceless Soft Matte Concealer

Jailynn Taylor

Tester feedback from contributor Jailynn Taylor

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“I'm a pimple picker. I know, I know (hopefully my facialist doesn't read this). But whether I pick or not, I always end up with hyperpigmentation. On days when I don't feel like doing a full face, I reach for the Tom Ford Traceless Soft Matte Concealer in shade 6W0 Terra. One swipe directly on skin, a quick blend with my Beauty Blender or concealer brush (depending on the finish I'm going for), and I'm out the door. Everything is fully covered with a natural finish that's virtually undetectable. And I love how chic and compact it is. It fits in my bag like a lipstick, so touch-ups on the go are a breeze." —Jailynn Taylor, contributor

More to know

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• Key ingredients: hyaluronic acid, vitamin E
• Shades: 20
• Finish: matte

Best Natural Finish: Nars Soft Matte Complete Concealer

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Nars

Soft Matte Complete Full Coverage Concealer

$36

Nordstrom

$36

Sephora

$36

Ulta Beauty

Allure social media manager Bianca Richards applying the Nars Soft Matte Complete Full Coverage Concealer

Bianca Richards

Why we love it: When a concealer promises full coverage without settling into fine lines, it's a tall order—but the Nars Soft Matte Complete Concealer is built precisely to deliver just that. The oil-free cream formula is anchored by spherical particles that absorb and refract light to blur dark spots, redness, and uneven texture without emphasizing the lines and pores that heavier concealers tend to magnify. Collagen-boosting peptides work over time to plump and smooth the appearance of wrinkles, hyaluronic acid hydrates and softens, and a protective cocktail of vitamins A, C, and E shields skin from daily environmental aggressors.

Bicoastal makeup artist Tobi Henney has put this concealer through its paces on film sets. "The shade range is incredible," she says, "and the formula will look like skin when applied well." For best results, apply with a damp beauty sponge using a stippling motion rather than sweeping strokes, which can disturb coverage and leave streaks.

Richards before applying the Nars Soft Matte Complete Full Coverage Concealer

Bianca Richards

Richards after applying the Nars Soft Matte Complete Full Coverage Concealer

Bianca Richards

Tester feedback from social media manager Bianca Richards

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“I've been using this concealer since 2016 when it was first introduced to the world! I typically apply it with a brush, dabbing it onto any dark spots and undereyes to create a seamless base. I love how versatile this product is for my skin type. Although my skin leans dry, as long as it’s properly prepped with my hydrating skin-care essentials, this concealer stays put throughout the day. I also reach for it on both minimal-makeup days and full-glam moments because it truly does it all. On lighter days, I dab a bit onto key areas to even out my complexion. When I’m going full beat, I use it as a base to help my other complexion products apply smoothly and seamlessly.” —Bianca Richards, social media manager

More to know

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• Key ingredients: hyaluronic acid, peptides, vitamins A, C, and E
• Shades: 30
• Finish: matte

Best Shade Range: Fenty We're Even Hydrating Longwear Concealer

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Fenty Beauty

We're Even Hydrating Longwear Concealer

$34

Sephora

$34

Ulta Beauty

Allure associate beauty editor Annie Blay-Tettey applying the Fenty We’re Even Hydrating Longwear Concealer

Annie Blay-Tettey

Why we love it: 50 shades is not a flex every brand can pull off, but for Fenty Beauty, inclusivity has always been at the center of the brand, and the We're Even Hydrating Longwear Concealer delivers both range and a top-tier formula. Split across cool, neutral, and warm undertones, the buildable, medium-coverage liquid melts into skin, making dark spots, discoloration, and under-eye circles virtually disappear.

The ingredient lineup champions prickly pear cactus extract, which draws moisture into the skin and provides a rich source of vitamin K to support elasticity, while Persian silk tree extract targets signs of fatigue. Sodium hyaluronate rounds things out, hydrating and conditioning skin while you wear it. The formula is also transfer- and waterproof, resisting creasing, fading, sweat, and humidity without settling into fine lines or accentuating texture.

Blay-Tettey before applying the Fenty Beauty We’re Even Hydrating Longwear Concealer

Annie Blay-Tettey

Blay-Tettey after applying the Fenty Beauty We’re Even Hydrating Longwear Concealer

Annie Blay-Tettey

Tester feedback from associate beauty editor Annie Blay-Tettey

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“I'm a no-makeup makeup warrior, so a concealer that I can use to hide dark spots—without having to use too much else—is a must in my makeup bag. I've tried a few that have been a miss, but the Fenty Hydrating Longwear Concealer never fails me. A tiny dot goes a long way to even out my complexion—perfect for days I want to enhance my skin without heavy makeup.” —Annie Blay-Tettey, associate beauty editor

More to know

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• Key ingredients: prickly pear cactus extract, Persian silk tree extract, sodium hyaluronate
• Shades: 50
• Finish: natural

Best for Dark Circles: MAC Studio Fix 36HR Smooth Angles Hydrating Concealer

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MAC

Studio Fix 36HR Smooth Angles Hydrating Concealer

$30

Nordstrom

$30

Sephora

$30

Ulta Beauty

Taylor applying the MAC Studio Fix 36HR Smooth Angles Hydrating Concealer

Jailynn Taylor

Why we love it: Delivering the best of both worlds, MAC's Studio Fix 36HR Smooth Angles Hydrating Concealer offers full coverage and maintains a matte finish without drying out the skin. Most long-wearing formulas sacrifice moisture for staying power, but this one doesn’t: Glycerin hydrates to prevent a dry, cakey look, while jojoba seed oil and olive fruit oil condition the skin throughout wear. Caffeine and algae extract target puffiness and dullness, making dark spots and undereye shadows less pronounced over time. Better yet, the sponge-tip applicator is engineered to reach smaller, hard-to-access areas without pulling or tugging, making it especially useful for precise dark-spot concealment around the nose and inner corners of the eyes.

Taylor before applying the MAC Studio Fix 36HR Smooth Angles Hydrating Concealer

Jailynn Taylor

Taylor after applying the MAC Studio Fix 36HR Smooth Angles Hydrating Concealer

Jailynn Taylor

Tester feedback from Taylor

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"I deal with post-pimple popping hyperpigmentation, hormonal acne marks, and pretty dark circles, so I reach for this MAC concealer when I need my base all in one shade. The doe-foot applicator lets me go in exactly where I need it, and it blends out so seamlessly it genuinely looks like I have nothing on (no excess shine or dry caking). It lasts all day with zero touch-ups, and all you need is one swipe since it's full coverage." —Jailynn Taylor, contributor

More to know

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• Key ingredients: glycerin, jojoba seed oil, olive fruit oil, sodium hyaluronate, caffeine
• Shades: 44
• Finish: matte

More concealers for dark spots we like

Best Hydrating: Make Beauty Skin Mimetic Concealer

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Make Beauty

Skin Mimetic Concealer

$28

Amazon

$28

Revolve

Why we love it: Lightweight concealer and dark-spot coverage don't always go hand in hand, but the Make Beauty Skin Mimetic Concealer earned its 2025 Allure Best of Beauty Award by managing both with a formula so skin-like it barely registers as makeup. The key is in the skin-mimicking pigments, developed to move, reflect light, and blend the way real skin does. Red algae extract draws moisture deep into the skin while adenosine, a naturally occurring component of skin that supports collagen production, simultaneously smooths, soothes, and reduces the appearance of wrinkles over time.

Green coffee extract and caffeine work together to target dark circles and puffiness, making this especially effective for under-eye concealing. Henney swears by one technique that elevates the formula entirely: “It's used best when you tap it into the skin with your fingertip,” she says.

Tester feedback from former content director Kara McGrath

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“I only use concealer under my eyes, so I look for formulas that offer enough coverage to hide my perpetual dark circles but won’t settle into my mid-30s fine lines. My ideal concealer also needs to last at least through the workday because I simply do not have the time (or fortitude) to reapply. This one hits all those points, with the bonus of a doe-foot applicator that fits perfectly into the inner corners of my undereyes.” —Kara McGrath, former content director

More to know

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• Key ingredients: red algae extract, adenosine, caffeine
• Shades: 24
• Finish: radiant

Best with SPF: Clé de Peau Beauté The Concealer

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Clé de Peau Beauté

The Concealer

$77

Amazon

$77

Nordstrom

Why we love it: Most concealers cover dark spots; the Clé de Peau Beauté Concealer SPF 27 goes a step further with built-in SPF 27 that guards against UV exposure that can deepen and multiply them in the first place. (That said, the American Academy of Dermatology recommends a minimum of SPF 30, so consider the protection here just a nice bonus.) The creamy stick blurs dark spots, redness, and under-eye circles with full coverage that adheres to even raised or textured skin. Hyaluronic acid and argan oil provide continuous hydration and softening while you wear it, while chestnut rosa fruit extract defends against oxidative damage that can worsen dark spots. Henney reaches for this one since it has great coverage and is easy to layer. Plus, she says, “it has staying power, and won’t get too oily and slide [on skin].”

More to know

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• Key ingredients: zingiber aromaticus extract, hyaluronic acid, argan oil
• Shades: 12
• Finish: natural

Frequently Asked Questions

What’s the best application technique for using concealer on dark spots or hyperpigmentation?

Start with a heavily pigmented formula, says Henney. (In other words, full coverage is your friend.) From there, she uses a two-step approach that combines precision with blendability. "I usually start by tapping on the product initially with a small makeup brush," she says. Once the product is placed, she switches tools entirely: "To make it flawless, I blend using a makeup sponge." The combination of targeted placement and seamless blending is what keeps coverage looking natural.

What should you look for when shopping for full coverage concealers?

A great full-coverage concealer comes down to the right shade and formula. Going slightly lighter in the center and matching your overall skin tone at the outer edges creates a more natural, dimensional result. Beyond shade, the formula itself has to perform. "You want something that can be layered and with strong pigment," says Henney, noting that both qualities become important when covering stubborn discoloration or dark spots, since they require more than one pass.

Meet the experts

• Tobi Henney, a makeup artist in LA and NYC

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 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 concealers for dark spots, we enlisted the help of multiple editors, writers, contributors, cosmetic chemists, and makeup artists—who have a range of experience studying and using these products. Testers considered performance across four primary categories: efficacy, texture, experience, and formula. 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.

Courtesy of @sansungnails, @thecolornook, @jadeandpolished, and @heygreatnailsSave StorySave this storySave StorySave this story

It’s 2002, and you’re deciding between your pink-and-green butterfly top and your knit striped sweater for a trip to the mall with your friends. You ultimately go with the former, despite already having the winged insect clipped into your hair and bedazzled onto your low-rise jeans. After all, Britney Spears just proved at the Versace show in Milan that when it comes to butterflies, the sky’s the limit.

Fast forward to today, when we’re going all-in on nostalgic looks, and butterflies are floating across our feeds. According to Spate, a beauty trend-forecasting platform, people are on the hunt for butterfly nail inspo: There are 112,000 monthly searches for the design on Google, and 581,000 Instagram posts a week that feature the design. “It’s such a fresh and easy way to introduce the warmer season onto our nails,” says San Sung Kim, a nail artist and content creator in Los Angeles.

There were early signs on the runways that 2026 would be especially busy for the whimsical design. Valentino’s spring-summer collection from last October featured garden-inspired pieces, including a slip dress beaded with butterflies. In the same month, Bluemarine sent models down the runway in sheer tulle dresses scattered with colorful embroidered versions of the motif.

Getty ImagesGetty Images

Both collections used the butterfly motif to invoke fantasy and whimsy—feelings that Elle Gerstein, a nail artist in New York City, says people are looking for in nail art today. “I think there's a lot of emotion behind trends right now; everyone wants to feel,” says Gerstein, who notes that butterflies signify levity and transformation—a much-needed emergence and escape from the current heaviness in the world. These sentiments are reflected in how we’re wearing butterflies on our nails in 2026.

How we’re wearing butterfly nails in summer 2026

Back when Mariah Carey and Christina Aguilera were walking red carpets in blingy butterfly crop tops, butterfly nail designs were graphic and on-the-nose—outlined in black or white polish and painted on a neon base. “It was very cartoon-y,” says Gerstein.

If you wanted a quick-and-easy manicure, then you’d pick up butterfly nail stickers from Claire’s and place them atop jelly nail polish. If you saw a professional for your nail art, you’d likely have the design hand-painted or airbrushed on, says Miss Pop, a nail artist in New York City. If glitter was involved, it was usually chunky.

Butterfly nails in 2026 are “incredibly detailed and intricate,” says Miss Pop. “We’re still drawing from the Y2K era; we just have better supplies.” She points to 3D silicone molds, iridescent cat-eye polishes, and reflective chrome powders.

Miss Pop recommends getting custom 3D butterflies using a silicone mold and a sparkly gel polish (namely the Salon Perfect One-Step Gel). “I put the gel in the butterfly-shaped silicone mold, then I scrape off the excess and cure it,” she explains. “The result is a beautiful, shimmering, colored-gel outline of a butterfly.”

Miss Pop applies that to the nail using a wet topcoat as glue, before curing the butterfly in place, then sealing the whole design with a glossy topcoat (the Zoya Ultra Glossy topcoat is her go-to). “It's a next-level version, but it really is just so chic to have that light and airy, beautiful outline,” she notes.

Miss Pop also likes to use a cat-eye base polish in a light shade, like the new Aprés Prismatic Gel Polishes in pearlescent white, an iridescent shade with silver and light-blue shimmer particles.

Don’t have a full nail art kit on hand? (We hear you.) Try nail art stickers that look hand-painted, like the Daily Charme 3D Embossed Butterfly Nail Stickers, which have a thin gold outline around each sticker for an ornate manicure effect.

You can also reach for a pack of press-ons. Our picks include the Olive & June Butterfly Mixed French Press-Ons, which have a pearly chrome finish, and the OPI Sticking Point Press-On Nails in the design Make My Art Flutter, a set with a butterfly-wing outline over a reflective gold base.

If you’re ready to give your nails the butterfly effect, keep scrolling to discover the most dazzling ways to wear butterfly nails this summer—including angelic, gilded-wing outlines, 3D cat-eye designs, and sparkling rhinestone patterns.

Butterfly nail inspo for summer 2026

Cat-eye butterfly nailsCourtesy of @heygreatnailsCourtesy of @littlekisskoCourtesy of @sansungnailsCourtesy of @heygreatnails

This angelic spin on the butterfly nail trend takes inspiration from Y2K sparkle, but instead of chunky glitter, these looks use the subtle, reflective shimmer from magnetic polish to create an otherworldly effect.

Kim says using cat-eye polish is especially impactful when creating fine-line butterfly designs, since it adds dimension to an otherwise minimal pattern. Kim uses a rose cat-eye polish from the Korean nail brand RozyHip; for a more widely available option, though, we love the DND 9D Cateye Glassball collection, featuring 12 slightly sheer and super glossy magnetic polishes, any of which would make a brilliant backdrop for a delicate butterfly-wing design.

3D butterfly nailsCourtesy of @sansungnailsCourtesy of @sansungnailsCourtesy of @sansungnailsCourtesy of @nailsby.tiff

Dial this dainty motif all the way up with bold and dramatic elements that jump off the nail. Whether it’s sparkling 3D gems or translucent gel accents, adding texture to your butterfly manicure is a great way to bring the trend into 2026. “It creates a super dramatic and gorgeous look,” says Miss Pop, adding that 3D accents add extra dimension to this design that “we couldn’t do before.”

But you might need a nail artist’s skills and finesse to pull off this look, and one technique that can prove less time-consuming is to lean on rhinestones, says Miss Pop. Suggest a butterfly design made purely with gels and appliqués—similar to the one above by Kim.

Framed butterfly nailsCourtesy of @nelza_dunCourtesy of @nail_art_by_mimiCourtesy of @nailswithsophiaCourtesy of @thecolornook and @jadeandpolished

For butterfly nails that look like pieces of vintage heirloom jewelry, consider adding gold outlines to your design. There are so many ways to approach this take on the butterfly motif: You can create, for instance, your butterflies with cat-eye polish, then add gilded edges for extra sparkle.

You can also create your outline in clear gel, apply a matte-gel topcoat, and cure the design in place. Then, using a nail sponge, apply a chrome powder over your nail art, like the Beetles Gel Polish Chrome Nail Powder, which leaves a beautiful reflective finish. “The matte topcoat helps isolate the chrome you’ll rub into the frame design,” Kathleen Tapanes, a nail artist in New York City, previously told Allure.

Jelly butterfly nailsCourtesy of @lana.lovesnailsCourtesy of @myuarnail

Product essentials for butterfly nails:

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Maniology

Mystic Woods: Leafy Feathers/Butterfly Wings Nail Stencil

$9

Mainology

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Daily Charme

Twinkle Twinkle Shaped Rhinestone Mix Pastel Iridescent Collection (4-Pack)

$48

Daily Charme

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Lost Angels

Y2K’d Me Press-ons

$20

Lost Angels

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Salon Perfect

One-Step Gel

$7

Salon Perfect

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Beetles

Gel Polish Chrome Nail Powder

$10 $8 (20% off)

Amazon

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Tadopro

6-Piece Silicone Nail Molds

$9 $8 (11% off)

Amazon

$49 at Luna NectarSave StorySave this storySave StorySave this story

TL;DR:

• What it is: A bakuchiol-based serum
• What it does: Targets fine lines, firms skin, and smooths texture
• Who it’s for: Anyone with sensitive skin looking for retinol-like results

Not every face can tolerate the power of retinol, but most can appreciate its more sensitive, skin-friendly alternatives, like bakuchiol.

"Bakuchiol is an ingredient derived from the psoralea corylifolia plant, the ‘babchi’ plant,” cosmetic chemist Perry Romanowski previously told Allure. The ingredient “functions similar to a retinol, increasing cell turnover thereby stimulating collagen production and diminishing signs of aging such as fine lines, wrinkles, skin laxity, and overall photodamage,” board-certified dermatologist Sejal Shah, MD, previously told Allure. “It’s also been shown to have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, as well as antibacterial properties.”

All this to say, it’s a powerhouse ingredient that doesn’t get enough credit. But in the Luna Nectar Futurize Botanical Retinol Alternative Boosting Serum, it’s the star of the show. So much so, even its name alludes to the standout ingredient. The elixir is also made with hydrating squalane and rosehip seed oils to add extra nourishment to skin while the fine line-fighting is going on.

Here’s how to use it: At night, after cleansing, pat three drops onto skin (forehead to neck), followed by moisturizer. And in case you need me to remind you, don’t forget to wear sunscreen the next morning!

The Luna Nectar Futurize Botanical Retinol Alternative Boosting Serum was in the June Allure Beauty Box.

GET THE BOX

Luna Nectar Futurize Botanical Retinol Alternative Boosting Serum

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Images: Courtesy of Kosas; Patrick Ta BeautySave StorySave this storySave StorySave this story

Update, June 16, 2026: Patrick Ta is sharing his side of the transition blush story. The makeup artist appeared on Emma Grede's podcast Aspire and directly responded to the controversy regarding his Transition Blush product launch and accusations of copying Painted by Esther's (Ngozi Esther Edeme) signature technique or not properly crediting her for helping popularize the ombré style for a new generation of makeup lovers.

In the interview, Ta told Grede that his Transition Blush line was created for the “blush lover" and the “world-building of blush,” given it's one of his favorite products and something his brand is well-known for. At first, he says he did “not understand” the conversation about Painted by Esther and creators not being recognized for their influence—especially Black creators and artists.

“The intent of this launch was never to take ownership over this technique,” Ta explained. “It was to create a product to simplify this artist technique that people have been doing and simplifying it for the consumer.” But after he took a step back to listen, he realized that “even though it wasn't my intention, the impact matters.”

Ta also claimed that his team reached out to Edeme for a potential collaboration prior to the launch, which she declined. “I personally reached out to Esther, my team reached out to Esther, and unfortunately she declined the opportunity because she wasn't taking paid collaborations at the moment,” he told Grede. “I really just wanted to work with creators that loved blush." He then went on to say that the launch has been “very difficult" for him.

Grede noted a “sense of remorse” from Ta while summarizing what went wrong. “It feels to me, Patrick, like you kind of understand that launching this particular product without a mention of her influence of the technique kind of felt like an erasure of her influence,” she said, adding that Edeme has been “very vocal” about how she didn't create the technique (as we reported below), but has definitely added to its current relevance. “But the fact that you guys went out with it in the way that you did feels like she should have somehow come up and been credited, and she wasn't. And because it so frequently happens, specifically with Black female creators and artists, it has escalated into something that is disproportionate to what you would have perhaps hoped for considering that you went out to her.”

Ta agreed. “I am genuinely sorry for the hurt and the frustration that I have caused and that for anyone who has ever felt overlooked or not recognized on their contributions; that was never my intent,” he said. “My intent was only to create a product to allow people to make this technique more accessible at home.”

As for accusations of copying a specific video of Edeme's, Ta said that was just a coincidence. According to the makeup artist, he filmed his video months before it appeared online. “Her content came out just a week prior, so there's no way that I could have copied her.” He then told Grede that since the controversy began, he has reached out to Edeme for a “conversation, artist to artist,” but she has yet to respond. “I have had nothing but amazing interactions with Esther, so I'm actually really shocked.”

Grede also brought up Edeme's story about a member of Ta's team booking a “do and go” makeup application with her, then canceling it when she couldn't record it. According to Ta, this isn't true; instead, he says, his business partner Rima [Minasyan] wanted Edeme to do her makeup for an Easter brunch.

“She is growing her social media right now. She creates content,” he explained. “She was filming just to film for her own social media. So [she] reached out to Esther on a personal level to get her makeup done for Easter brunch, and content was always within the ask.” According to Ta, Edeme's team sent over a rate and “changed the rate a few days later,” so Minasyan declined.

Ta added that he thought it could have been a miscommunication with Edeme's agent and Minasyan. “Being an artist myself and having an agent, I don't know everything that my agent communicates with the client,” he said. “I think that is something that happened between her and her agent with the communication, because we have all the emails, and it is stated exactly as that.”

In addition to his appearance on Grede's podcast, Ta also made a statement on Instagram, which he posted on June 16 to “take accountability” for the conversation and his role in it. “My intention was to create a product that made a makeup technique I love more accessible,” he wrote. “It was never my intention to claim ownership over a blush technique or a way of applying makeup.”

He goes on to say that he now understands why Edeme saw the situation differently, and says he is “genuinely sorry for the hurt and frustration caused" by failing to mention her influence on the trend.

“I understand that the reaction wasn't just about the product itself,” he wrote. “It was about something much bigger: recognition, visibility, and the experiences many creators, especially Black creators, have had when their contributions to culture are overlooked or not recognized. Black creators have had an enormous influence on beauty culture, trends, and artistry, and that influence often goes unattributed and unrewarded."

Ta ended his statement by saying that his current focus is to “find meaningful ways to support the artists, creators, founders, and communities that make this industry flourish.” You can read the full statement on his Instagram.

Allure reached out to Painted by Esther's team, but they declined to comment.