Megan Thee Stallion Looks Like a ’90s Prom Queen in Her Big, Blonde Updo â See Photos
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Ah, prom season. I admit, I'm not really on top of how the teens are styling their hair for the big dance these days, but I have crystal-clear memories of how we used to do it in the 1990s. If you didn't pile curls into a tendril-spilling tower atop your head, did you even read the special prom issue of YM? Well, it seems Megan Thee Stallion definitely did, and it apparently inspired her Broadway debut after-show glam.
Meg gave her first highly anticipated performance in Moulin Rouge!, in which she'll be playing the role of Zidler in the musical through mid-May. I would be remiss to not shout out her amazing hairstyle in the showâa glossy, Veronica Lake-esque look that's bedazzled along its wavesâbut it's her celebratory stage door style that's really sending me back.
Photo: Getty Images
Everything about Megan's look as she emerged from the Al Hirschfeld Theatre on March 24 screamed prom queen: the long, sequinned dress, the strappy, metallic shoes, the matching red mani-pedi, the gold Alexis Bittar jewelry (those bangles are so epic), the bold lips and shimmering eyes, because why take off your stage makeup if you're going out after? She's even carrying bouquets of flowers as if her name was just announced as the winner.
Photo: Getty Images
But it's that big, blonde updo that really seals the deal. A mix of sandy and bronde tones, her hair has been swept up into a heap of loose curls. And a â90s prom updo wouldnât be complete without tendrils, which Megan has in spades, both framing her face and trailing in back.
Photo: Getty Images
The only thing she's missing is a crownâwhich would weigh down her style anyway, so it's probably for the best.
Oribe Is “Quiet Luxury” Hair-Care That Always Delivers
Paula Bolando; Source images: Courtesy of Allure editors and brandsSave this storySave this story
Hereâs the deal: The best Oribe products smell ridiculously good (kudos to the sandalwood- and bergamot-spiked CĂ´te d'Azur scent)âbut that's not the only factor that earns these formulas permanent-wash-day-staple status. Our editors are obsessed with how they leave hair silky-soft and noticeably strongerâso, yes, they earn their splurge status. But the magic goes back to Oribe Canales himselfâthe legendary hairstylist who helped define supermodel-era glamour, and, as former Allure creative director Paul Cavaco put it, created looks that are now âpart of our collective hair languageâ without most of us even realizing it. While Oribe sadly passed in 2018, his influence is still very much alive and bottled up in every formula.
Our Top Oribe Products
- Grease, Be Gone: Serene Scalp Oil Control Shampoo, $52
- Hydration Station: Gold Lust Repair & Restore Shampoo, $56
- Mousse-Have: Grandiose Hair Plumping Mousse, $42
- Weatherproof Wonder: Impermeable Anti-Humidity Spray, $44
- Texture on Tap: Dry Texturizing Spray, $52
Many of those formulas feature ingredients you probably already recognize from your skin-care routine, and they're just as kind to your strands as they are to your face. Weâre talking heavy hitters like glycerin, vitamin E, and luxe botanical oils. Then, thereâs the brandâs Signature Complex, found across the lineup, blending watermelon, lychee, and edelweiss flower to protect natural keratin and defend against oxidative stress. Whether your hair is curly, pin-straight, or somewhere in between, Oribe products prioritize the health of your hairâand thatâs a statement we can get behind.
After countless hours of combing (ha) through and testing Oribe's extensive lineup, weâve compiled the end-all, be-all list of the best products to level up your hair-care routine.
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- How we test and review products
- Our staff and testers
Grease, Be Gone: Serene Scalp Oil Control Shampoo
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Oribe
Serene Scalp Oil Control Shampoo
Amazon
Nordstrom
Dermstore
Why itâs worth it: If you have oily hair and simply canât imagine skipping a wash day, Oribeâs Serene Scalp Oil Control Shampoo calms irritation and reduces flakiness, while a sugar-derived prebiotic works behind the scenes to keep your scalpâs bacteria in check. Made to support a balanced, healthy scalp microbiome, the formula taps antioxidant-rich rosebay extract, green marine algae, and a biomimetic amino acid (an ingredient that mimics the same building blocks of proteins like keratin) to help dial down excess oil. The result? A clean scalp that stays refreshed for longerâjust one wash and youâre still feeling clean up to 72 hours later.
Allure senior commerce director Shanna Shipin before using the Oribe Serene Scalp Oil Control Shampoo
Shipin after using the Oribe Serene Scalp Oil Control Shampoo
Tester feedback from senior commerce director Shanna Shipin
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âMy hair is simultaneously dry and oilyâand I use mousse, hairspray, and leave-in conditioner daily. Needless to say, I need to do a detox lather at least once a week, and the shampoo that canât be topped for me is Oribeâs Serene Scalp. Not only does it slough off product residue, but it takes care of the oil and dandruff that I accumulate when I spend a little extra time between wash days. It never dries my scalp or hair out, smells lovely, and lathers beautifully. Often times to get a really fresh scalp, you need to reach for a scrub or a pre-shampoo, but this is all of those products in one.ââShanna Shipin, senior commerce director
More to know
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- Key ingredients: rosebay extract, green marine algae, biomimetic amino acid, sugar-derived prebiotic, Oribe Signature Complex
- Best for: those with oily scalps and/or dandruff
Fit for a Queen: Royal Blowout Heat Styling Spray
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Oribe
Royal Blowout Heat Styling Spray
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Dermstore
Allure commerce writer Lily Wohlner applying the Royal Blowout Heat Styling Spray
Lily Wohlner
Why itâs worth it: Whatâs the point of spending time styling your hair with heat tools, only to leave it looking dry or damaged? Thatâs where a high-performance heat protectant comes in handy. Royal Blowout shields strands from heat up to 450°F, so your styling routine doesnât come at the expense of your hairâs strength through every blowout, curl, or pass with a flat iron. The formula is lightweight enough for finer textures, yet still delivers smoothing and frizz-control benefits for thicker hair. A nourishing blend of rice bran, rosehip fruit oil, and rosemary leaf extract works to strengthen and repair the look of split ends and damage, while imparting a glossy, sleek finish.
Wohlner before applying the Royal Blowout Heat Styling Spray
Lily Wohlner
Wohlner after applying the Royal Blowout Heat Styling Spray
Lily Wohlner
Tester feedback from commerce writer Lily Wohlner
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âIâve been giving myself a weekly at-home blowout with Royal Blowout ever since my time working with the brand at Oribe seven years agoâand despite testing plenty of new heat protectants, this one has never left my rotation. The scent alone doubles as a hair perfume that lingers until my next wash, but itâs the results that keep me hooked: glossy shine, soft bounce, and that just-left-the-salon finish. Itâs super lightweight, but a few sprays go a long way, so one bottle lasts forever.â âLily Wohlner, commerce writer
More to know
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- Key ingredients: rice bran, rosehip fruit oil, rosemary leaf extract, Oribe Signature Complex
- Best for: those who consistently use hot tools
Weatherproof Wonder: Impermeable Anti-Humidity Spray
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Oribe
Impermeable Anti-Humidity Spray
Amazon (5.5 oz)
Dermstore (5.5 oz)
Nordstrom (2.0 oz)
Allure managing editor Alessandra Foresto applying the Impermeable Anti-Humidity Spray
Alessandra Foresto
Why itâs worth it: Oribe knew a thing or two about humidity. After opening his Miami salon in the â90s, he spent years working in that warm, sticky heatâperfecting big, glossy styles that somehow held up anyway. So if any product feels like it comes from lived experience, itâs this one. Because truly, whatâs worse than styling your hair for hours, only for humidity to undo all of your hard work? The Impermeable Anti-Humidity Spray is here to lock down your âdo, so the weather doesnât dictate your look. Unlike many sprays designed for damp strands, this mist works specifically on dry hair, making it perfect when youâre in a pinch and need a final step before curling, waving, or flat-ironing. It leaves a smooth, almost satiny finish with a slight hold that resists frizz without ever feeling heavy or greasy. A climate-resistant copolymer extends the life of your hairstyle while vitamin B5 and vitamin E add softness, moisture, and shine.
Foresto before applying the Impermeable Anti-Humidity Spray
Alessandra Foresto
Foresto after applying the Impermeable Anti-Humidity Spray
Alessandra Foresto
Tester feedback from managing editor Alessandra Foresto
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âThis spray is my go-to all summer long to protect my hair from the 99% humidity of New York City, but I also reach for it on rainy days through the year (and when in a pinch if I need a little bit of hold or texture in my hair). I use it as the last step in my routine right before I step out of my apartment to protect my flatiron waves. Itâs like a mix between texturizer, dry shampoo, and hairspray. It gives your hair a bit of hold, but also sets it in place so it doesn't immediately fall flat or puff up when you go outside in a rainstorm or a super humid day. The spray bottle, like all Oribe products, is also so luxe and beautiful, and the nozzle applicator delivers a strong amount of product, so make sure you keep the spray moving so you don't get too much product in one spot (you can brush through that spot to distribute the product if it happens, though).â âAlessandra Foresto, managing editor
More to know
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- Key ingredients: vitamin E, copolymers, Vitamin B5, Oribe Signature Complex
- Best for: those with frizzy hair that doesnât mix well with humidity
Texture on Tap: Dry Texturizing Spray
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Oribe
Dry Texturizing Spray
Amazon
Nordstrom
Dermstore
Allure content director Sophia Paynch applying the Oribe Dry Texturizing Spray
Sophia Paynch
Why itâs worth it: Backstage, Oribe was known for making hair go from flat to full in what felt like seconds, and you get that same instant, weightless volume in Oribeâs Dry Texturizing Spray. Unlike some texturizing sprays that can feel a little gritty or stiff, this formula lifts roots and adds dimension with zeolite crystals that make hair look and feel touchable. And because itâs Oribe, it features the brandâs Signature Complex to protect from the elements. Whether youâre reviving a blowout, adding a little extra thickness, or giving waves a lived-in vibe, this spray makes it look like you tried a lot harder than you did.
Paynch before applying the Oribe Dry Texturizing Spray
Sophia Paynch
Paynch after applying the Oribe Dry Texturizing Spray
Sophia Paynch
Tester feedback from content director Sophia Paynch
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âMy relationship with Oribe Dry Texturizing Spray has lasted longer than all of my romantic onesâeven counting my husband (we've been together for almost nine years, and I've owned a can of this stuff for almost 15 years). Any professional hairstylist will agree that it's just one of those products that's good to always have handy when you want a little volume, a little texture, or just a little zhuzh in general. I spray it into my hair after it's been rough-dried, air-dried, or nicely blow-dried. It works all the same. I usually blast each side for about five seconds, making sure to get the under layers of my hair. Then, I'll flip my head upside down and spray it in that way, too. It's light as air, smells amazing, and is truly multi-purpose. It lifts roots like a dry shampoo, adds light hold like a flexible hairspray, and adds texture like a beach spray. It makes fine hair like mine look and feel five times thicker, and while it does make your hair feel a bit dry to the touch, it never looks that way.â âSophia Paynch, content director
More to know
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- Key ingredients: zeolite crystals, Oribe Signature Complex
- Best for: those looking to top their styles off with volume and dimension
Oil Over it: Gold Lust Nourishing Hair Oil
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Oribe
Gold Lust Nourishing Hair Oil
Amazon
Nordstrom
Dermstore
Former Allure shopping market editor Angela Trakoshis applying Oribe Gold Lust Nourishing Hair Oil
Angela Trakoshis
Why itâs worth it: Do us a favor and don't write off hair oils until you've tried the Oribe Gold Lust Nourishing Hair Oil. It's a light, restorative, and protective formula that enhances your hair's shine and sleekness, even on the driest, most damaged days (a few drops go a long way). It starts with Oribeâs Signature Complex, then layers in frizz-smoothing argan oil, omega-rich cassis seed oil to help strengthen, soothing jasmine oil to calm the scalp, and shea butter for softness and shine. And despite that lineup of richer ingredients, it still feels completely weightless on the hair. You can use the 2024 Best of Beauty winner on wet or dry hair, but we love how it gives a scent to damp hair right out of the shower.
Tester feedback from former shopping market editor Angela Trakoshis
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âOribeâs Gold Lust Hair Oil might be a splurge, but itâs absolutely worth itâit leaves my hair soft, shiny, and healthy, and the scent is unrealâthink a high-end salon on the Upper East Side. Every time someone hugs me, they ask what perfume Iâm wearing, and I get to say, âItâs just my hair oil!âââAngela Trakoshis, former shopping market editor
More to know
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- Key ingredients: argan oil, cassis seed oil, jasmine oil, shea butter, Oribe Signature Complex
- Who itâs for: those who want to finish their looks with a burst of shine and luster
Mousse-Have: Grandiose Hair Plumping Mousse
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Oribe
Grandiose Hair Plumping Mousse
Amazon
Nordstrom
Dermstore
Allure contributing commerce editor Deanna Pai applying the Grandiose Hair-Plumping Mousse
Deanna Pai
Why itâs worth it: Body-boosting, fluffy-foamed, and never-crunchy, Oribeâs Grandiose Hair Plumping Mousse is an editor favorite. The brand describes each pump of the mousse as a âpouf,â which we find to be accurate, given the product's airy nature. (It wonât weigh down even fine hair.) You can expect bigger, better, and softer hair with every application, plus the added perks of heat protection and strand repair. It works best when paired with heat, so bust out the blow-dryer and let the panthenol, glycerin, vitamin E, polymers, and Oribe Signature Complex get to work.
Pai before applying Oribe Grandiose Hair-Plumping Mousse
Deanna Pai
Pai after applying Oribe Grandiose Hair-Plumping Mousse and letting her hair air-dry
Deanna Pai
Tester feedback from contributing commerce editor Deanna Pai
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"My fine yet wavy hair tends to get flat at the crown, so when I need a little more oomph, I go for this mousse, layering it on after leave-in conditioner. It has just the right amount of volume and definition to add some lift and shape my curls, respectively, but doesn't feel crunchyâeven when I layer it on for extra hold." âDeanna Pai, contributing commerce editor
More to know
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- Key ingredients: panthenol, glycerin, vitamin E, polymers, Oribe Signature Complex
- Who itâs for: those who need oomph at the roots of their hair
Freeze the Moment: Superfine Strong Hairspray
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Oribe
Superfine Strong Hair Spray
Amazon
Nordstrom
Dermstore
Why itâs worth it: Itâs not every day you meet a hairspray that actually adds shine instead of a telltale cloudy cast, which is why Oribeâs Superfine Strong Hold Hairspray has our attention. Doubling as a light hair perfume (of course it does), this hairspray keeps styles in place while leaving a soft, glossy finish. The formula goes a step further with pro-vitamin B5 heat protection in the form of hydrolyzed wheat protein, which breaks proteins into small amino acids and peptides so they can penetrate the hair and strengthen from within. Even though the whole operation feels lightweight, the hold is serious without looking stiff, which we can always get behind (especially for an updo or big curls).
Allure senior beauty editor Jesa Marie Calaor applying Oribe Superfine Strong Hairspray
Jesa Marie Calaor
Calaor after applying Oribe Superfine Strong Hairspray
Jesa Marie Calaor
Tester feedback from senior beauty editor Jesa Marie Calaor
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"As the name says, the nozzle of this sleek can dispenses a featherweight, fine mist of hairspray that makes distributing it evenly across my waves a breeze. I use it to keep my heat-styled waves bouncy and intact without any crunchiness or stickiness.â âJesa Marie Calaor, senior beauty editor
More to know
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- Key ingredients: pro-vitamin B5, hydrolyzed wheat protein, Oribe Signature Complex
- Who itâs for: those looking for hold in their blowout or updo
Tame the Mane: Italian Resin Flat Brush
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Oribe
Italian Resin Flat Brush
Amazon
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Dermstore
Allure social media director Kassidy Silva using the Oribe Italian Resin Flat Brush
Kassidy Silva
Why itâs worth it: We donât always give our hairbrushes enough creditâthey get dragged through tangles, heat-styled strands, and product buildup. So when you find one that actually holds up (and makes your hair look better in the process), it starts to make sense why youâd invest a little more. Case in point: the Oribe Italian Resin Flat Brush. It isn't every day we drop $100 on a hairbrush, but the 2023 Best of Beauty Award seal says it all. Made with a mix of boar bristles, rounded nylon pins, and a 97% natural rubber cushion, itâs designed to detangle gently while smoothing and boosting shine. (It doesnât hurt that the custom-designed Italian resin handle looks like it belongs on a very chic vanity.) As it cares for your hair, donât forget to care for it right back: Rinse it regularly, shake out excess water, and let it air-dry to keep it in top shape.
Tester feedback from social media director Kassidy Silva
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âIf you have ultra-long hair that's prone to frizz, this is your new secret weapon. After blow-drying and curling my hair on wash days, I give my ends a few swipes with the Oribe Italian Resin Flat Brush to brush out my curls before hitting them with a finishing spray. Be careful not to tug too tightly, or your curls will morph into very loose waves. Between washes, I use it to help tame my flyaways by giving the bristles a spritz or two of a flexible hairspray and brushing just at my roots.â âKassidy Silva, social media director
More to know
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- Material: boar bristles, Italian resin, rounded nylon pins
- Who itâs for: those with long, frizzy hair
Hydration Station: Gold Lust Repair & Restore Shampoo
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Oribe
Gold Lust Repair & Restore Shampoo
Amazon
Nordstrom
Dermstore
Allure contributing commerce writer Annie Blackman applying Oribe Gold Lust Repair & Restore Shampoo
Annie Blackman
Why itâs worth it: Gentle, nourishing, and all kinds of decadent, Oribeâs Gold Lust Repair & Restore Shampoo is one we keep coming back to (and re-purchasing). Infused with ingredients like strengthening biotin, smoothing plant collagen, energizing caffeine, and oil-balancing niacinamide, it penetrates the hair cuticle, strengthening from the root down and dialing up that healthy, glossy shine. In other words, itâs not just there to cleanse (plenty of cheaper shampoos can handle that)âitâs actively doing repair work as it goes, so your hair feels stronger over time. And then thereâs the luxe lather: Once it hits your hair, it whips up into a fluffy, cloud-like foamâimpressive for a sulfate-free formula (because they donât always bring the suds). Rinse it out, and youâre left with soft, silky strands. Pair it with the Gold Lust Repair & Restore Conditioner for an even bigger boost.
Tester feedback from contributing commerce writer Annie Blackman
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âBefore I tried the Gold Lust Shampoo, I was scared the scent would be too strong. (The bottle is pretty dramatic lookingâcan you blame me?) But all it took was one wash to assuage my fears. This stuff smells amazing, feels lightweight post-shower, and leaves my hair feeling legit so soft. In the shower, it smells stronger than it is after drying off, so if youâre overpowered at first, just know that the scent will fade just the right amount.â âAnnie Blackman, contributing commerce writer
More to know
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- Key ingredients: biotin, plant collagen, caffeine, niacinamide, Oribe Signature Complex
- Best for: those with dry hair who want a hydrating cleanse
Curl Talk: Eternal Curls Polish & Protect Oil
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Oribe
Eternal Curls Polish & Protect Oil
Amazon
Nordstrom
Dermstore
Why itâs worth it: Though the brand may be best known for blowouts, not curls, the newer Eternal Curls line taps into something Oribe always believed: Your hair should look like itself, just better (rather than coaxed into submission). If you have curl types 2 through 4, the Eternal Curls Polish & Protect Oil is the first product from the line weâd urge you to try. Its blend of natural oils (watermelon seed, castor seed, apricot, and coconut) sinks into the curl shaft to hydrate and impart a glossy, lightweight shine. The brand recommends using it on damp hair (it locks in that moisture), but it can also be used as a pre-wash treatment when your curls are feeling extra dry.
More to know
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- Key ingredients: watermelon seed, castor seed, apricot, and coconut oils, Oribe Signature Complex
- Best for: those looking to hydrate their curly or coily hair
Frequently Asked Questions
How we test and review products
We always enlist a range of testers for our makeup vertical, but hair-care products and tools are another story. While there are certainly products that can be used across different hair textures, lengths, curl patterns, thicknesses, colors (natural and unnatural), and needs, hair products are often created with specific consumers in mind. Many are created in order to address a concern (dandruff, breakage, brittleness) or to work most effectively for a specific hair type (4C curls, wavy hair, gray hair). You wouldnât want to pick up a purple shampoo thatâs only been reviewed by someone with, say, auburn hair, or a diffuser thatâs never been tested by anyone with curlsâright?
For our review of the best Oribe products, we enlisted the help of multiple editors, writers, contributors, and hair expertsâmany of whom want shinier, healthier-looking hair. Testers considered performance across four primary categories: efficacy, texture and experience, fragrance, and packaging. For more on what's involved in our reporting, check out our complete reviews process and methodology page.
Our staff and testers
A beauty product is a personal purchase. You might be searching for a face cream to address persistent dryness or a new nail product to add to your Sunday self-care routine; you may simply be browsing around for the latest launches to hit the hair market. No matter what you seek or your individual needs and concerns, Allure wants to ensure that you love anything we recommend in our stories. We believe that having a diverse team of writers and editorsâin addition to the wide range of outside testers and industry experts we regularly call uponâis essential to reaching that goal.
11 Best Medicube Skin-Care Products for Smoother, Clearer Skin
Collage: Jemeria Davison; Source images: Courtesy of Allure editors and brandsSave this storySave this story
What stands out most about the best Medicube products is how they make K-beauty skin care feel simple, effective, and genuinely approachableâboth in routine and in price. Many fans have streamlined their routines down to a handful of hero products that deliver that same glass-skin glow youâd expect from a full 10-step lineup (a major win for anyone short on time). For those with dry or sensitive skin, the brandâs formulas are especially appealingâthey multitask without overwhelming the skin barrier.
Medicube relies on ingredients practically synonymous with Korean skin care. Youâll find polydeoxyribonucleotides (PDRN), derived from salmon DNA, to help support skin renewal and improve the appearance of uneven tone. Many formulas also feature Centella asiatica (a.k.a. cica), a go-to for soothing. âSensitive skin is a very common skin type in Korea due to high pollution levels," says Charlotte Cho, cofounder of K-beauty retailer Soko Glam based in New York City. âAs a result, sensitive-skin friendly ingredients, such as cica, are frequently seen in Korean beauty products to calm inflammation, redness, and irritated skin.â
Our Top Medicube Products
- No Ghosting: No Cast Just Glow Collagen Sunscreen, $22 $15
- Pretty in Pink: Pink Peptide Serum, $22 $15
- Set the Tone: Collagen Milk Toning Wrapping Mask, $22 $15
- Pore Over This: Zero Pore Pads, $31 $15
- R You Glowing Yet?: Age-R Booster Pro, $228 $132
- Bursting Bounce: PDRN Pink Collagen Capsule Cream, $22 $16
Beyond ingredients, Medicubeâs textures are part of the appeal: Think foam serums that feel like whipped bubbles and collagen creams that burst on contact, releasing pockets of hydration that melt right into skin. You'll find a routine that feels as enjoyable as it is effective.
R You Glowing Yet?: Age-R Booster Pro
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Medicube
Age-R Booster Pro
Amazon
Allure editor in chief Jessica Cruel using the Medicube Age-R Booster Pro
Jessica Cruel
Why it's worth it: Most microcurrent devices make big promises, but then lose you somewhere between all the extra attachments and the hunt for the right conductive gel. Itâs why so many end up buried in a drawer, forgotten after just a few uses. Medicubeâs Age-R Booster Pro stands out by keeping this streamlined (just the device and your go-to serum). But donât confuse simple for basic. It delivers on versatility with four built-in modes: Booster Mode (electroporation) to enhance product absorption, MC Mode (microcurrent) to target fine lines, Derma Shot Mode (EMS) to firm and contour, and Air Shot Mode to support pore elasticity.
Tester feedback from editor in chief Jessica Cruel
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"I must say: This is the most powerful device I have ever used. Setting three out of five had my muscles twitching (in a good way). I also like that it has a screen that tracks the time, so I don't have to keep track of beeps. I find the user experience is better than many microcurrent devices I've used in the past.â âJessica Cruel, editor in chief
Jessica has normal skin and has been using the Medicube Age-R Booster Pro once a month for six months.
Product highlights
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- Four modes (Booster Mode: Electroporation, MC Mode: Microcurrent, Derma Shot Mode, and Air Shot Mode: Electric Needles)
- Five intensity levels each
- Medicube AGE-R App compatibility
- USB-C charging cable
How the brand tested this product's efficacy
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Medicube conducted clinical studies for all four modes used in combination with skin-care products and lists these statistics on its Singaporean site:
- Forehead volume: improved by 35.9% after 2 weeks of use
- Smile lines: improved by 24.2% after 2 weeks of use
- Between the brows (11s): Improved by 16.1% after 2 weeks of use
- Crow's feet: improved by 12.6% after 2 weeks of use
- Neck lines: improved by 11.8% after 2 weeks of use
- Skin density: improved by 5.46% after 2 weeks of use
Burst of Radiance: Collagen Glow Bubble Serum
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Medicube
Collagen Glow Bubble Serum
Amazon
Why it's worth it: Korean skin-care brands are known for their sensorial textures, and the Collagen Glow Bubble Serum has to be one of the most fun weâve ever tried. The airy mousse has a fluffy, cloud-like textureâalmost reminiscent of a light shaving foamâas it melts into the skin. Beyond the playful application, it delivers real benefits for all skin types, especially mature skin: Collagen and elastin help support firmness and bounce while hyaluronic acid draws in hydration to keep skin looking plump and dewy. True to its name, this âbubble serumâ is featherlight yet deeply hydrating, though our tester notes you might notice a slight tackiness for a minute or two as it settles in.
Allure contributing commerce writer Christa Joanna Lee applying the Medicube Collagen Glow Bubble Serum
Christa Joanna Lee
Lee after applying the Medicube Collagen Glow Bubble Serum
Christa Joanna Lee
ââTester feedback from contributing commerce writer Christa Joanna Lee
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âThis serum has a light, foamy texture that sits somewhere between a gel and a mousseâitâs a little unusual at first, but easy to get used to. Once it settles, it leaves an ever-so-slight tacky finish that works well during the day, giving makeup something to grip onto so it applies more evenly.â âChrista Joanna Lee, contributing commerce writer
More to know
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- Key ingredients: collagen, elastin, hyaluronic acid
- Fragrance-free: no
No Ghosting: No Cast Just Glow Collagen Sunscreen
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Medicube
No Cast Just Glow Collagen Sunscreen
Amazon
Why it's worth it: K-beauty sunscreens are always trying to outdo themselvesâwho can make the most lightweight, zero-white cast, skin-care-packed formula yet? So when Allureâs resident K-beauty expert said she found the âglowiest sunscreen ever,â our ears perked up. If dull, tired-looking skin is the concern, Medicubeâs No Cast Just Glow Collagen Sunscreen SPF 50 makes a strong case for itself. The chemical formula layers protection with a nourishing, skin-care-forward lineup: Niacinamide helps visibly brighten and even tone, while hyaluronic acid pulls in hydration so skin looks plumper and fresher, never greasy. Collagen and peptides add that softly cushioned, lit-from-within finish, and soothing Centella asiatica keeps skin calm and comfortable.
Allure commerce editor Sarah Han applying the Medicube No Cast Just Glow Collagen Sunscreen
Sarah Han
Han after applying the Medicube No Cast Just Glow Collagen Sunscreen
Sarah Han
Allure managing editor Alessandra Foresto applying the Medicube No Cast Just Glow Collagen Sunscreen
Foresto after applying the Medicube No Cast Just Glow Collagen Sunscreen
Alessandra Foresto
Tester feedback from commerce editor Sarah Han
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âMedicube was not lying about the 'No Cast, Just Glow' name. This is one of the glowest, most brightening sunscreens I've ever tried, and boy, does my dried-out winter skin appreciate it. (Full disclosure: I don't think my combo skin could handle this during the warmer months, lest I want to venture straight into greasy, not glowy, territory.) It does take a beat to fully rub inâgranted, I go a little heavy on application, but better to overdo it thanâŚunderdo itâbut once you do, there's nary a trace! The ingredients are quite familiar to the average skin-care lover, but something about this lineupâniacinamide, cica, peptides, and collagenâups the dewy ante by a lot, and I'm glad for it. I can easily skip my a.m. moisturizer and it also doubles as a hydrating primer. Win, win, and win." âSarah Han, commerce editor
Tester feedback from managing editor Alessandra Foresto
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âLike a good beauty editor, sunscreen is not a step I skip even on the darkest, rainiest days. I like this Medicube SPF because it's light and absorbs quickly but still feels moisturizing, plus it has a very subtle radiant finish. Unlike other sunscreens, it doesn't leave a white cast behind and it also doesn't feel thick and sticky on my face. But, most importantly for me, it does not make my makeup pill. I use it as the last step in my moisturizing routine every morning, after a hyaluronic acid serum and a moisturizing cream, and before concealer and foundation.â âAlessandra Foresto, managing editor
More to know
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- Sunscreen type: chemical
- Key ingredients: 13.6% homosalate, 9% octocrylene, 4.5% octisalate, 2.7% avobenzone, hyaluronic acid, niacinamide, ceramides, collagen, peptides, Centella asiatica
- Fragrance-free: yes
Very A-peel-ing: Collagen Wrapping Mask
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Medicube
Collagen Wrapping Mask
Amazon
Allure features director Dianna Mazzone Singh peeling off the Medicube Collagen Night Wrapping Mask
Dianna Singh
Why it's worth it: No wonder Medicubeâs Collagen Wrapping Mask has gone viralâthere arenât many skin-care products that deliver that kind of instant gratification. Still, the appeal goes beyond the peel. Unlike traditional peel-off masks that focus on quick, surface-level results, this one acts more like an overnight cocoon, sealing in hydration while you sleep before lifting away in the morning. The thick, elastic texture sets into a flexible film that feels cushioning rather than tight.
Inside, itâs packed with familiar favorites: collagen, hyaluronic acid, and ceramides to help skin look plumper and hydrated, plus niacinamide to boost glow and adenosine to smooth the look of fine lines. A few less-expected additionsâlike agave stem extract and chlorella (a nutrient-rich algae)âsupport skin resilience, so you wake up looking refreshed, not just temporarily glazed.
Tester feedback from features director Dianna Singh
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"The way my skin looks with a layer of Medicube Collagen Night Wrapping Mask is exactly how I want my skin to look without it: glassy, glowy, and clear. And with each overnightâyes, overnightâapplication of its niacinamide- and hyaluronic acid-infused formula, I get a little bit closer to that goal. I've been using it once or twice a week and never cease to be delighted by the satisfaction of peeling it away in the morning." âDianna Singh, features director
More to know
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- Mask type: peel-off mask
- Key ingredients: hyaluronic acid, niacinamide, glycerin, vitamin E, ceramide Np, collagen extract
Set the Tone: Collagen Milk Toning Wrapping Mask
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Medicube
Collagen Milk Toning Wrapping Mask
Amazon
Han applying the Medicube Collagen Milk Toning Wrapping Mask
Sarah Han
Why itâs worth it: Unlike the original Collagen Wrapping Mask, which stays put overnight, the Collagen Milk Toning Wrapping Mask gets to work in just 20 minutes. And if youâve ever browsed beauty shelves in Seoul, youâve likely seen the phrase âtone-upâ everywhereâno, it doesnât relate to toner. Itâs actually pretty literal, referring to formulas that help visibly brighten, even out, and clarify your overall skin tone.
This particular peel-off mask creates that effect with niacinamide, alpha-arbutin, and glutathione to target dullness and discoloration on the spot, while collagen water and collagen amino acids add a subtle, bouncy plumpness. Milk protein extract gives skin that softly blurred finish, and ceramides, Centella asiatica, and panthenol round things out with barrier support. As it sets, the formula forms a flexible, opaque wrapping layer that seals everything in.
Han before applying the Medicube Collagen Milk Toning Wrapping Mask
Han after applying the Medicube Collagen Milk Toning Wrapping Mask
Tester feedback from Han
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âNothing against overnight masks, but this tosser-and-turner simply doesn't mesh with that sort of wear time. Medicube's most viral collagen mask may be the overnight formula but I jumped for joy when I heard the K-beauty brand launched a 20-minute milky version. It is a little sticky when applying (to be expected, though), but easy to slather on a thick layerâcrucial to a seamless peel-off. (It's ok if said layer isn't super even!) After time is up and I remove the mask, my skin definitely looks a bit brighter (thanks niacinamide), though I'm not sure about the firming claims. I'll leave that task to my heavier-duty, leave-on serums. All in all, it's a solid mask I can see myself using once a week.â âSarah Han, commerce editor
More to know
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- Key ingredients: niacinamide, alpha-arbutin, glutathione, collagen water, collagen amino acids, ceramides, Centella asiatica, panthenol
- Fragrance-free: yes
Pretty in Pink: Pink Peptide Serum
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Medicube
Pink Peptide Serum
Amazon
Allure video producer Lauren Alberti applying the Medicube Pink Peptide Serum
Lauren Alberti
Why it's worth it: This wonât be the first time youâll hear about PDRN. It works so well because these topical salmon DNA derivatives are âvery similar to human DNA and can help with skin quality, luminosity, and texture,â New York City-based board-certified plastic surgeon Jennifer Levine, MD, told Allure. The supporting players do their part, too: Niacinamide helps brighten and refine, while adenosine and a multi-peptide blend (including copper peptides) lend a firmer, healthier-looking finish. Hydrators like glycerin and sodium hyaluronate keep things comfortably plump, and a mix of botanical extractsârose, turmeric, holy basilâadds a calming layer.
Tester feedback from video producer Lauren Alberti
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âI've been using this product for the last few months as part of my never-ending battle against dry skin. After a few uses, I could see that this was definitely contributing to more hydrated-looking skin, helping me achieve that dewy glow. I typically use it with the Medicube Booster Pro to really get the product into my pores.â âLauren Alberti, video producer
More to know
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- Key ingredients: salmon PDRN, niacinamide, adenosine, peptides, glycerin, sodium hyaluronate, rose, turmeric, holy basil
- Fragrance-free: no
Pink Drink: PDRN Pink Vita Coating Sheet Mask
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Medicube
PDRN Pink Vita Coating Sheet Mask
Amazon
Why it's worth it: In this face mask, PDRN not only helps repair a compromised skin barrier but also works to fade dark spots and hyperpigmentation, revealing a brighter, healthier-looking complexion over time. Itâs also infused with collagen and pink vitamin B12 to help soften the look of fine lines, restore elasticity, and refine overall skin texture. The sheet itself hits that ideal middle ground: not so flimsy that it bunches or folds in on itself, but not so thick that it feels stiff or prone to slipping. It hugs the contours of your face, stays in place without constant adjusting, and makes the whole experience feel comfortable, soothing, andâyesâlike a true self-care moment.
Lee applying the Medicube PDRN Pink Vita Coating Sheet Mask
Christa Joanna Lee
Lee after applying the Medicube PDRN Pink Vita Coating Sheet Mask
Christa Joanna Lee
Tester feedback from Lee
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âIâve tried enough sheet masks to know that if it wonât stay put, Iâm already annoyed. This one is so clingy in the best way. I usually mask while Iâm WFH, sitting upright at my desk, so that alone is a huge win. It also has this consistently cool, refreshing feel, even in the warmer months. Paired with the formula, it leaves my skin feeling really comforted and calm afterward.â âChrista Lee, contributing commerce writer
More to know
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- Key ingredients: salmon PDRN, collagen, pink vitamin B12
- Fragrance-free: no
Pore Over This: Zero Pore Pads
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Medicube
Zero Pore Pads
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Allure associate social media manager Katie Gunderman applying the Medicube Zero Pore Pads
Katie Gunderman
Why itâs worth it: No offense to the classic cotton pad you soak yourself with, but it never quite hits the same, especially if you have acne-prone skin, where too much product or extra friction can make things worse. Pre-soaked toner pads take the guesswork out, giving you a consistent amount of formula every time and a gentler, more controlled swipe.
Medicubeâs Zero Pore Pads are saturated with a clarifying blend that exfoliates dead skin, absorbs excess oil, and helps keep pores looking clear without overdoing it. Salicylic acid works deep in the pores to help prevent breakouts by breaking down buildup, while lactic acid smooths uneven texture. And with calming ingredients like Centella asiatica, panthenol, and allantoin, skin stays balanced.
ââTester feedback from associate social media manager Katie Gunderman
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âThe Medicube Zero Pore Toner Pads are always the first step. They refresh my face and prep it for the rest of my skin-care or makeup routine. They always leave my skin feeling clean and hydrated and I love how easy they are to pop on.â âKatie Gunderman, associate social media manager
More to know
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- Key ingredients: lactic acid, salicylic acid, Centella asiatica, panthenol, allantoin
- Fragrance-free: yes
- Number of pads: 70
Bursting Bounce: PDRN Pink Collagen Capsule Cream
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Medicube
PDRN Pink Collagen Capsule Cream
Amazon
Why it's worth it: The tiny pink capsules in the PDRN Pink Collagen Capsule Cream resemble popping bobaâfirm at first, then melting seamlessly into skin upon contact. Each capsule is filled with PDRN, helping keep it stable and potent until it hits your skin. Once released, it blends into the surrounding gel-like formula, which features collagen to support firmer-looking skin, hyaluronic acid for deep hydration, and niacinamide to help brighten uneven tone.
How you mix the capsules with the gel depends on your skin type: Oilier skin types can lean more on the lightweight gel (about a 2:1 ratio), while normal or combination skin does well with an even split. If your skin is dry or sensitive, dial up the number of capsules (1:2) to add extra nourishment and bounce.
Lee applying the Medicube PDRN Pink Collagen Capsule Cream
Christa Joanna Lee
Lee after applying the Medicube PDRN Pink Collagen Capsule Cream
Christa Joanna Lee
Tester feedback from Lee
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âThe texture is the main event here. Thereâs something oddly satisfying about watching the capsules break down and mix with the gel-cream, like youâre creating a fresh batch of skin care every time you apply it. And beyond the sensorial appeal, my skin always looks plumper and glowier.â âChrista Lee, contributing commerce writer
More to know
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- Key ingredients: salmon PDRN, collagen, hyaluronic acid, niacinamide
- Fragrance-free: no
No Rough Patches: PDRN Caffeine Collagen Eye Patch
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Medicube
PDRN Caffeine Collagen Eye Patch
Amazon
Why itâs worth it: Itâs kind of hard to believe Medicube didnât have undereye patches until recently, but these feel well worth the wait. The brand recommends layering them over its PDRN Pink Peptide Eye Cream to seal everything in and enhance absorption, though the patches are juicy and hydrating enough to hold their own. In just 10 minutes, salmon-derived PDRN supports collagen production and boosts hydration, softening the look of fine lines and dark circles.
Thereâs also a blend of seven types of collagen, which (while too large to penetrate deeply) is excellent at locking in moisture and creating a smoother, plumper look. Caffeine steps in to de-puff and revive tired eyes. Also worth noting: Despite the name, these arenât limited to undereyesâyou can even use them on forehead lines, smile lines, or anywhere that could use a little smoothing.
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- Key ingredients: salmon PDRN, collagen, caffeine
- Fragrance-free: yes
Triple Threat: 3-Step Facial Device
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Medicube
3-Step Facial Device
Amazon
Why it's worth it: By the time youâve made it to the end of this list, youâre basically a Medicube expert, so wouldnât it only feel right to have the tools to match? The brandâs 3-Step Facial Device is the kind of upgrade that makes your routine feel a little more legit, powered by the Mini Booster Pro Plusâa lighter, smaller, more streamlined version of the Age-R Booster Pro with fewer modesâthat works on its own or clicks into interchangeable heads depending on what your skin needs that day.
The V-Roller Head is where things get especially good. Itâs designed at a 62-degree angle, which sounds technical but really just means it glides along your cheekbones and jawline with even pressure and coverage. The modes let you shift gears depending on your mood: Red Mode for a firmer, bouncier look over time, Blue Mode for mornings when your face is holding onto last night (it helps de-puff and refine), and Purple Mode shifts into body care territory, which is surprisingly nice for tension in the neck and shoulders.
Then thereâs the cleansing attachment, which goes beyond your hands to really get into pores, helping clear buildup, blackheads, and all those tricky little areas around the nose. You can go all in and use everything together in the same skin-care routine, or just pick your lane on any given day.
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- Whatâs included: Mini Booster Pro Plus, V-Roller Head, Cleansing Device
Frequently Asked Questions
Meet the experts
- Charlotte Cho, an esthetician and co-founder of Soko Glam based in New York City
- Jennifer Levine, MD, a board-certified plastic 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 clay masks, 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 contributorsâalong 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 editorsâin addition to the wide range of outside testers and industry experts we regularly call uponâis 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.




















