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Beauty editors are just like normal people. There are those who can blow-dry and curl their hair so skillfully, you’d swear they stopped by the salon every morning before work. Or those who know the difference between a smudging brush and a blending brush and how to use them when creating a smoky eye. And then there are those of us who clamp down on our lids every time we use an eyelash curler. (We won’t even mention the Allure editor who once set her duvet on fire with a hair dryer.) The difference between beauty editors and everyday folks, however, is that it’s our job to test and write about beauty products, regardless of how clumsy, distracted, artsy, or ambidextrous we may be. It’s also our job to spotlight the best products of the year, which means for the Tools category of our 2025 Best of Beauty Awards, we had to come to a consensus and find the makeup brushes, hot tools, and hair accessories that all of us can use.
So every day this year, we buffed and blended, curled and combed, and dabbed and detangled until we found the makeup and hair tools that deliver exceptional results, regardless of your level of expertise or degree of dexterity. Every one of the winning gadgets and gizmos on this list—from the stainless-steel tweezers to the multitasking hot brush—will elevate your beauty routine without making it more complicated in the process.
In fact, thanks to some genius engineering, we’re convinced these tools make your routine easier, and will leave you wondering how you ever did your makeup or styled your hair without them.
Best of Beauty Awards 2025: Tools
Shop your favorite category or keep scrolling for the year's very best hot tools, makeup brushes, and hair accessories.
See our winners:LargeChevron
Best Makeup Brushes
Best Foundation Brush: Makeup by Mario F4 Dual-Ended Foundation and Face Brush
Best Foundation Brush
Makeup by Mario F4 Dual-Ended Foundation and Face Brush
Sephora
Why It Won: Once you try the Makeup by Mario F4 Dual-Ended Foundation and Face Brush, you won’t look at another base brush the same way again. (Some of our editors even have multiples in their makeup bag; they’re so smitten.) The true beauty of this tool rests in the unique sloped shape of both ends—almost like cats’ paws—that hug the curves of your face and buff away streaks and splotches. Whether you’re working with cream, powder, or liquid foundations (or blushes or bronzers—this brush can really do it all), use the larger, fluffier side for overall blending and the small, more compact side for adding opacity.
Tester feedback from beauty closet associate Edward Horgan
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“This brush is so versatile that it’s slowly replacing three different brushes in my collection. I use it for pretty much any cream or liquid base product, and it always gives me an effortless blend. The smaller side is more precise for a sharp contour or perfectly placed blush; the larger side smoothly diffuses foundation and bronzer into the skin with a few taps.” —Edward Horgan, beauty closet associate
Best Concealer Makeup Brush: Sarah Creal Beauty The Ultra-Soft Concealer Complexion Brush
Best Concealer Brush
Sarah Creal Beauty The Ultra-Soft Concealer Complexion Blush
Sephora
Why It Won: The brand calls it a “half-shell shape.” We think it looks like the pad of a finger. Regardless of what it resembles, the unique shape of the Sarah Creal Beauty The Ultra-Soft Concealer Complexion Brush makes this a game-changing tool for getting flawless coverage. Both angled and tapered, the fine nylon bristles navigate those hard-to-reach spots like the inner corners of the eyes and sides of the nose, while the curved side diffuses the pigment as you go. And if you’re someone whose only cover-up is concealer, the sides of the brush are large enough to blend liquid out over wide surface areas.
Tester feedback from executive beauty director Jenny Bailly
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“I applied pretty much all my makeup with my fingers—until I started using this concealer brush. It blends liquids (I am loyal to the Sarah Creal Face Flex but have given it a whirl with all kinds of formulas) with no streaks or patchy spots. I don’t usually wear foundation, and the size and contours of these bristles let me easily bring concealer down around the contours of my nose when I have extra redness to contend with.” —Jenny Bailly, executive beauty director
Best Contour Makeup Brush: Saie The Double Brush
Best Contour Brush
Saie The Double Brush
Amazon
Why It Won: The dual-ended Saie The Double Brush turns any makeup lover into Michelangelo (the Renaissance artist, not the Ninja Turtle). The downy-soft synthetic bristles cling to curves for seamless, stripe-free sculpting of your cheekbones, forehead, and jawline. The small end is the perfect size for contouring your nose and brow bones, or to blend highlighter over the high points of the face. Once you’re done, you’ll feel inclined to step back and admire your smoothly chiseled masterpiece.
Tester feedback from editorial assistant Jennet Jusu
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“I'm a sucker for convenience and any product that can provide a two-for-one special when it comes to applying my makeup. Saie The Double Brush was one of my favorite tools to test because I never change up my everyday makeup routine. I use the same amount of foundation and blush, so the larger side applies my concealer beautifully and also smoothes out my blush; it’s the perfect size. I use the smaller side for clean up and highlighting. And it’s great for touching up throughout the day." —Jennet Jusu, editorial assistant
Best Bronzer Makeup Brush: Patrick Ta Beauty Major Sculpt Dual-Ended Sculpting Brush
Best Bronzer Brush
Patrick Ta Beauty Major Sculpt Dual-Ended Sculpting Brush
Sephora
Patrick Ta
Why It Won: The Patrick Ta Beauty Major Sculpt Dual-Ended Sculpting Brush makes applying bronzer impossible to botch, whether your goal is snatched cheekbones or an all-over glow. The compact slant on one side (for creams) and fluffy fan on the other (for powders) can both be used strategically to sculpt every curve and angle of your face. But switch your grip and they also diffuse pigment flawlessly for an all-over faux glow.
Tester feedback from senior news editor Nicola Dall’Asen
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“You will not have to beware the dreaded contour streak ever again with this double-sided sculpting brush. Its slim, fanned-out side helps you place product exactly where you need it, and the fluffier side blends it out without spreading it so far that it looks messy." —Nicola Dall’Asen, senior news editor
Best Blush Makeup Brush: Jones Road The Blush Brush
Best Blush Brush
Jones Road The Blush Brush
Jones Road
Managing editor Alessandra Foresto applies the Jones Road The Blush Brush.
Why It Won: Appearing on this list for the third year in a row, Jones Road The Blush Brush is so beloved because it’s basically the Goldilocks of its category. The bristles are neither too floppy nor too stiff, neither too long nor too short, and are cut to the perfect rounded shape that’s just right for swirling pigment over the apples or spreading it along your cheekbones—without having to work too hard for a completely natural finish.
Tester feedback from managing editor Alessandra Foresto
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“I can remember a time when I didn’t think I needed blush, but let’s not talk about that. Now that blush is a can’t-leave-home-without-it item for me, I’ve been working on upgrading my application tools. The brand says the brush is “designed for precise product pickup (not too much, not too little),” and…I see no lies here, particularly when using it for powder blush. It’s also made with vegan bristles, which is a must for me!” —Alessandra Foresto, managing editor
Best Eye Shadow Makeup Brush: Ilia Beauty Blending Brush
Best Eye Shadow Brush
Ilia Beauty Blending Brush
Amazon
Why It Won: The difference between your smoky eyes and smoky eyes that have been applied by a professional makeup artist? There’s a lot more blending involved in the pro’s technique. The Ilia Beauty Blending Brush basically does all that hard work for you. The long, tapered bristles expertly buff and blend shadow as you sweep it across your lids or windshield-wipe it along your creases, leaving edges beautifully soft and diffused—so much so you’ll be shocked by your own handiwork
Tester feedback from associate manager of subscription box operations Margot Herzog
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“I tend to shy away from eye shadow because it makes me a little nervous—I’ve never felt that confident applying it. This brush makes blending foolproof. It picks up just the right amount of product and diffuses it beautifully, so everything looks soft and natural—even for someone like me, who is far from an expert.” —Margot Herzog, associate manager of subscription box operations
Best Powder Makeup Brush: Ulta Beauty Collection Dual-Ended Finishing Powder Brush 144
Best Powder Brush
Ulta Beauty Collection Dual-Ended Finishing Powder Brush 144
Ulta Beauty
Why It Won: Our testers were blown away by Ulta Beauty Collection Dual Ended Finishing Powder Brush 144’s teddy-bear soft bristles. But this brush didn’t win just because it’s cuddly. The large domed tool skims the face and diffuses powder for the sheerest possible coverage, while the smaller, tapered side lets you get up close to your undereyes and right alongside your nose without causing creasing or buildup.
Tester feedback from social media manager Bianca Richards
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“Ulta’s powder brush is a standout not only because it’s affordable, but because the quality rivals (and even surpasses) some of the high-end brushes I own. I use it to apply allover face powder, powder blush, and bronzer on days when I need a little extra mattifying power. It picks up plenty of product from the compact and blends everything out beautifully.” —Bianca Richards, social media manager
Best Makeup Sponge
Beautyblender Original Makeup Sponge
Best Makeup Sponge
Beautyblender Original Makeup Sponge
Amazon
Why It Won: Ah, the Beautyblender Original Makeup Sponge. The incredible, inedible, egg-shaped makeup sponge that’s launched hundreds of imitations. None, however, match the masterful makeup-blending skills of the original with its proprietary latex-free material and perfectly proportioned shape. Combined, you get a sponge that leaves you with the perfect amount of natural-looking coverage every time.
Tester feedback from shopping market editor Angela Trakoshis
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“I’ve tried every sponge, brush, and finger-blending hack out there—and I always come back to this OG. There’s just something about the bounce and blend of the teardrop-shaped sponge that no one else can replicate.” —Angela Trakoshis, shopping market editor
Best Tweezers
Tweezerman Slant Tweezers
Best Tweezers
Tweezerman Slant Tweezers
Amazon
Why It Won: Tweezerman Slant Tweezers are the Simone Biles of beauty tools because, with over 20 Best of Beauty wins under their belt, there’s no debating that the stainless-steel tool is the greatest of all time. With sharp, 25-degree-angled tips and optimum tension, the pinchers grab the wispiest hairs, the stubbiest regrowth, and our unending devotion
Tester feedback from shopping director Shanna Shipin
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“Nothing plucks at the root quite like these tweezers. The slant makes it easier to get in there and pull at the hair, without snagging your skin in the process.” —Shanna Shipin, shopping director
Best Lash Curler
Tweezerman Promaster Lash Curler
Best Eyelash Curler
Tweezerman Promaster Lash Curler
Amazon
Why It Won: We’ve never thought about the exact angle of our eyelash curler, but Tweezerman definitely did. The curling bar of the Promaster Lash Curler is set at 38 degrees, the ideal angle for almond-shaped and deep-set eyes. It also opens extra wide so that you can collect every lash without clamping down on your lids
Tester feedback from senior copy manager Leslie Lipton
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“When is an eyelash curler not a petite torture device? When it's the Tweezerman Promaster Lash Curler. This tool gently preps lashes without that tearfully painful pinch." —Leslie Lipton, senior copy manager
Best Hot Tools for Hair
Best Blow-Dryer: L’Oréal Professionel AirLight Pro
Best Blow-Dryer
L’Oréal Professionel AirLight Pro
Amazon
Why It Won: The L’Oréal Professionel AirLight Pro is the Max Verstappen of blow-dryers—you’ve never reached the hairstyling finish line this fast. Using a combination of infrared light at the front of the machine and a traditional motor and coils in the center, the machine pushes hot air through the ring of infrared light, allowing the invisible light to also heat the air as it’s moving toward your hair. This makes the AirLight Pro more efficient (less heat is lost to the air), less damaging (not as much heat is needed to dry your hair), and seriously speedy. A handy app that lets you customize your settings from your phone makes the whole process even quicker.
Tester feedback from senior beauty editor Jesa Marie Calaor
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“I hate blow-drying my hair; I have long, medium-coarse waves, and with the average blow-dryer, it takes so long and still leaves it poofy. Using the AirLight was an unbelievable experience, and while I still never want to style my hair, it does make the process extremely quick. The AirLight dried my slightly damp hair in four minutes and four seconds (yes, I counted), smoothing my strands and leaving them shiny. I appreciate how powerful and gentle it was at the same time—swiftly zapping moisture but never burning me.” —Jesa Marie Calaor, senior beauty editor
Best Brush Dryer: Revlon One-Step Volumizer Plus
Best Brush Dryer
Revlon One-Step Volumizer Plus
Amazon
Why It Won: Fans of the Revlon One-Step Volumizer Plus—which include our editors and hundreds of thousands of people on TikTok—know that it’s the well-priced, not-so-well-kept secret to bouncy blowouts at home, saving you time, money, and a trip to the salon. It saves your triceps, too. The barrel of the Plus version is smaller than the original, making it even less of a hassle to pass through each section of hair with the brush’s nylon bristles. Some of our testers can even get away with styling their whole head with just one hand
Tester feedback from editorial assistant Jennet Jusu
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“I have really thick hair that makes drying and straightening a process. Thankfully, this hot tool speeds up the blowout. The heat isn’t overbearing, and the bristles help gently comb through all the tangles and knots after washing my hair. Plus, because it’s lightweight, I can easily do all my curls and flips with it.” —Jennet Jusu, editorial assistant
Best Flatiron: FHI Innovator The Curve Pro Styling Iron 1”
Best Flatiron
FHI Innovator The Curve Pro Styling Iron 1”
Walmart
Bloomingdales
Why It Won: Sure, the FHI Innovator The Curve Pro Styling Iron 1” is technically a flatiron, straightening your hair with tourmaline ceramic plates that can heat up from 265- to 450-degrees Fahrenheit in just 10 seconds. The tool itself, however, is unexpectedly curved, which is what makes it so efficient and easy to use. The curvature of the plates takes tension off both your wrists and your hair, allowing strands to glide swiftly through them, whether you’re smoothing, curling, or waving your hair.
Tester feedback from senior copy manager Leslie Lipton
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“The sleek shape of the FHI Innovator The Curve Pro Styling Iron 1” makes flatironing my bob a breeze. The tourmaline ceramic plates heat up in seconds and glide through hair, turning my flyaway frizz and unruly waves into smooth, reflective shininess." —Leslie Lipton, senior copy manager
Best Static Curling Iron: Hot Tools Pro Artist 24K Gold Extended Barrel Curling Iron
Best Static Curling Iron
Hot Tools Pro Artist 24K Gold Extended Barrel Curling Iron
Ulta Beauty
Sally Beauty
Why It Won: Many of our millennial and Gen X editors had a Hot Tools curling iron long before they had an iPhone. Testing the Hot Tools Pro Artist 24K Gold Extended Barrel Curling Iron brought us a swell of nostalgia—and also lustrous, long-lasting curls and waves that rivaled tools double the price. The extra-long barrel makes the styling process go faster, especially for hard-to-reach sections and long lengths, and we appreciate the easy-to-use control button that lets you toggle through multiple heat settings, making this tool effective on loads of hair types
Tester feedback from editorial assistant Jennet Jusu
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“Growing up, Hot Tools was a staple in my house, as well as at the beauty salons I frequented as a child—and even now as an adult. My hair is thick and coarse, and this specific curling iron works well for creating long-lasting curls, whether I prefer to wear them a little tight or loose. I really appreciate the durability—it’s a total game-changer.” —Jennet Jusu, editorial assistant
Best Rotating Curling Iron: T3 CurlWrap Auto-Rotating Curling Iron
Best Rotating Curling Iron
T3 CurlWrap Auto-Rotating Curling Iron
Amazon
Content director Kara McGrath applies the T3 CurlWrap Auto-Rotating Curling Iron.
Why It Won: Amateur stylists, rejoice. With a handful of high-tech features, the T3 CurlWrap Auto-Rotating Curling Iron basically does all the work for you. The self-rotating barrel spins at two different speeds, wrapping each section of hair around the barrel without you having to contort your elbow, then the SmartCurl Timer beeps and vibrates when it’s time to release the clamp. The only thing you have to do? Decide between one of the nine heat settings that works best for your specific hair type and texture.
Tester feedback from content director Kara McGrath
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“I'm a longtime T3 evangelist. The curling irons heat up quickly and evenly—the last part is key for creating curls or waves that actually last in my hair. The auto-rotating component of this one makes it even easier to use. I also love that it has nine heat settings, so you can really find the temperature that works best for your hair texture. The fifth setting (out of nine) is perfect for my fine, wavy hair. The final standout touch? It has a built-in timer to let you know when to release each curl, which helps minimize the chance of heat damage and makes sure your style looks even all across your head.” —Kara McGrath, content director
Best Waver: GHD Wave
Best Waver
GHD Wave
Amazon
Senior beauty editor Jesa Marie Calaor applies the GHD Wave.
Why It Won: The GHD Wave may look massive, but it’s lighter than many of its peers (only 1.24 lbs) and easier to control thanks to curved edges that reduce its weight and help with balance. This sounds trivial, but it’s what makes it easy to create mermaid-style waves in under 15 minutes. And, like the brand’s other hot tools, the Wave was constructed with sensors that help ensure your hair is consistently styled at 365 degrees Fahrenheit, a temperature that creates a lasting look with less damage to the hair.
Tester feedback from senior beauty editor Jesa Marie Calaor
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“This waver looks like a giant crimper from the early 2000s, creating extra-cool S-waves without the smell of burnt hair. It’s also lightweight compared to other wavers and easy to maneuver close to the scalp." —Jesa Marie Calaor, senior beauty editor
Best Multi-Tasker: Wavytalk Multi Curl
Best Multi-Tasker
Wavytalk Multi Curl
Amazon
Why It Won: The Wavytalk Multi Curl has two temperature settings, one thermal brush, and four different curling wands. In beauty math, that adds up to an infinite amount of styles you can achieve with this one handy tool. That’s not the only thing that caught our tester's attention—the velvet travel bag and dual voltage means you can continue to enjoy this multitasking tool kit wherever you travel, whether it’s to the Poconos or Positano.
Tester feedback from senior art director Ingrid Fowler
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“With so many multi-tools out there that focus on hair drying, it's nice to find one that focuses solely on curling wands. This kit is wonderful for travel because it's so compact in its tiny carrying bag, the tool feels sturdy, and the five attachments provide you with plenty of different curling options.” —Ingrid Fowler, senior art director
Best Multi-Tasker: Shark FlexStyle Air Styling & Drying System
Best Multi-Tasker
Shark FlexStyle Air Styling & Drying System
Amazon
Head of video Natalie Campbell applies the Shark FlexStyle Air Styling & Drying System.
Why It Won: Five removable attachments mean the Shark FlexStyle Air Styling & Drying System is like having an entire hairstylist’s tool kit at home—that you don’t need a hairstylist’s skill set to use. The handle twists at a 90-degree angle to become a high-speed hair dryer, but locked into its upright position, the device converts into a self-winding curling iron, a frizz-smoothing paddle brush, and a volume-building oval brush.
Tester feedback from head of video Natalie Campbell
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“This product changed how I style my hair! I have thick, curly/wavy hair and blow-drying or styling my hair always feels like a long chore that I don't have enough time for. With this machine, I could style my hair to perfection in a short amount of time with ease. The attachments make it easy to achieve so many different styles and always create a silky finish. I’ve never gotten more compliments on my hair than when using the FlexStyle—I recommend it to everyone!” —Natalie Campbell, head of video
Best Hairbrushes and Combs
Best Paddle Hairbrush: Tangle Teezer The Ultimate Detangler Extra Gentle
Best Paddle Hairbrush
Tangle Teezer The Ultimate Detangler Extra Gentle
Amazon
Associate beauty director Sarah Kinonen applies the Tangle Teezer The Ultimate Detangler.
Why It Won: Tangle Teezer knows a thing or two about removing knots without ruining your hair (or making your toddler cry). The Ultimate Detangler Extra Gentle takes it one step further, creating a paddle brush that’s delicate enough for thinning and damaged strands. It’s all in the teeth—two-tiered like other Tangle Teezers but spaced more widely apart, to reduce tension, and concentrated in the middle, to detangle more efficiently.
Tester feedback from associate beauty director Sarah Kinonen
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“My cat and I are big fans of Tangle Teezer (the palm-size pet brush is a big hit in our house), but only one of us has extremely fragile, long, fine, blonde hair. While lovely in photos, my hair is very prone to breakage, which is why I have to be extra careful when brushing it when wet, post-shower. This tool keeps it nice and easy, cutting knots and tangles without additional tugging; I might love it more than Lola loves her brush.” —Sarah Kinonen, associate beauty director
Best Round Hairbrush: EcoTools Better Brush Volumizing Round Brush
Best Round Hairbrush
EcoTools Better Brush Volumizing Round Brush
Amazon
Why It Won: The vegan boar bristles in the EcoTools Better Brush Volumizing Round Brush grab onto your hair, distributing moisture and creating enough tension to stretch out strands (straight, curly, coarse—we tested it on them all). It also delivers intense amounts of shine and delivers airy volume throughout your hair.
Tester feedback from senior news editor Nicola Dall’Asen
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“I've used this round brush on every blowout I've done on myself for the past two years and will be hard-pressed to ever give it up. Whether my hair is jaw- or shoulder-length, this wide barrel brush gives me soft, sculpted waves with just a quick twist and flick of the wrist.” —Nicola Dall’Asen, senior news editor
Best Detangling Hairbrush: Wet Brush Original Detangler
Best Detangling Hairbrush
Wet Brush Original Detangler
Amazon
Why It Won: Yes, we know, the Wet Brush Original Detangler is technically designed for detangling purposes, but we loved the tool so much we now keep it on hand for all our paddle-brush needs, from knocking out knots right out of the shower to perfecting ponytails and adding bounce and shine to our blow-dries.
Tester feedback from senior director of audience development Lexi Herrick
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“The Wet Brush is undoubtedly one of the only products I cannot live without. I have a lot of long, fine hair, which is apparently the perfect combination for being incredibly prone to tangles. Wind, water, and simply existing all lead to instant knots that I’ve struggled with for years. That is, until I discovered this tool. It easily breaks up tangles without any pulling or causing any damage. It’s very easy to clean, and I’ve found it incredibly durable. Ten out of 10, Wet Brush is that girl." —Lexi Herrick, senior director of audience development
Best Edge Styler: Baby Tress Edge Styler
Best Edge Styler
Baby Tress Edge Styler
Amazon
Why It Won: The patented dual-size, triangle-shaped brush head of the Baby Tress Edge Styler is what makes this tool exceptional—and worthy of another win, according to our editors. On one side, nylon bristles separate and smooth, on the other, natural boar bristles swoop and shape, while the pointed rattail end is ideal for precise partings and finer details—all so you can lay down and get artsy with your edges in one go.
Tester feedback from associate beauty editor Annie Blay-Tettey
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"In the class of edge-control brushes, the Baby Tress Edge Styler is the overachieving student that gets all their assignments done ahead of time and asks for extra credit. This overachieving tool not only slicks my edges down in seconds, but also has a dual-tail that allows me to fashion my middle-parted, slicked-back bun with precision. It truly does it all.” —Annie Blay-Tettey, associate beauty editor
Best Wide-Tooth Comb: Tek Wide-Tooth Comb with Wooden Handle
Best Wide-Tooth Comb
Tek Wide-Tooth Comb with Wooden Handle
Amazon
Why It Won: Tek’s Wide-Tooth Comb with Wooden Handle features 12 teeth that are widely spaced to gently detangle wet or dry hair, regardless of texture. Not to mention, the fact that it’s handmade in Italy from ash wood means it looks molto bella in our bathroom.
Tester feedback from associate beauty director Sarah Kinonen
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"This past year, I’ve started combing my hair before every shower, which is weird, because I probably should have been doing that my entire life, but I digress. Regardless, I’ve been loving this wooden, wide-tooth comb because it’s not only sleek-looking, it cuts knots and tangles without tugging on my sensitive scalp.” —Sarah Kinonen, associate beauty director
Best Comb: Cécred Parting Tail Comb
Best Comb
Cécred Parting Tail Comb
Ulta Beauty
Why It Won: The Swiss Army Knife of combs, the Cécred Parting Tail Comb is sleek, precise, and multifunctional. The finely spaced teeth slick hair back, smooth edges, and assist during a silk press, then flip it around, and the stainless-steel tail makes easy work of parting, sectioning, and taking down braids and protective styles. And when you’re all done, you can hang it up, out of the way, thanks to the ingenious metal ring at the top.
Tester feedback from senior copy manager Dawn Rebecky
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“This comb is sleek, precise, and multifunctional. It easily handles my short, piecey cut. But I was even more impressed when a friend with long, textured hair used it to create sections for a more intricate style, noting that it felt like an 'extension of' her hand." —Dawn Rebecky, senior copy manager
Best Hair Accessories
Best Hair Towel: Crown Affair The Hair Towel
Best Hair Towel
Crown Affair The Hair Towel
Sephora
Shopping director Shanna Shipin applies the Crown Affair The Hair Towel.
Why It Won: A quality hair towel can make the difference between a good hair day and a mediocre one. Crown Affair The Hair Towel is supremely gentle on freshly washed strands, reducing friction and speeding up the drying process with its waffle pattern and microfiber blend. Smaller than the traditional bath towel but larger than your average hair towel, the large square-ish shape ensures that every hair texture can use it.
Tester feedback from shopping director Shanna Shipin
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“The unsung hero of any curly girl's routine is the hair towel—and this one is, not to be dramatic, is life-changing. It's gentle on hair, has an elastic band for the tail, and helps dry your hair fast. Never once has it fallen off my head, and I have thick hair that reaches my bra line. I know you're tempted to use that cotton tee, but the waffle texture on this towel makes all the difference.” —Shanna Shipin, shopping director
Best Hair Bonnet: Glow by Daye G x D Adjustable Satin Bonnet
Best Hair Bonnet
Glow by Daye G x D Adjustable Satin Bonnet
Amazon
Why It Won: With its bold prints and thoughtful design, the Glow by Daye G x D Adjustable Satin Bonnet is something you look forward to slipping on, whether before bed or as you go about your day. Made from double-layered silk charmeuse that keeps hair soft and static-free, the reversible bonnet’s roomy, 23-inch interior fits nearly all hair types, thickness, and styles, while the drawstring—a standout feature for our testers—allows you to gently cinch the satin-edge perimeter around your head, helping minimize abrasion along your hairline.
Tester feedback from senior manager of analytics and audience development Monica Perry
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“I really appreciate that this bonnet has both an affordable price point and an adjustable drawstring perimeter—elastic bands tend to lose their elasticity with every wash. It also has a reversible design, so it's like getting two bonnets for the price of one." —Monica Perry, senior manager of analytics and audience development
Best Hair Cuff: Rpzl The Morgan Stacked Cuff
Best Hair Cuff
Rpzl The Morgan Stacked Cuff
Amazon
Why It Won: Hair cuffs look effortless and beautiful in street-style photos, but the reality can be a bit more frustrating. Many can be heavy or hard to handle, or just fail at the one job they’re supposed to do: hold your hair in place. Rpzl The Morgan Stacked Cuff solves these issues, all while looking incredibly chic in its nine metallic, patterned, and show-stopping shades. The secret is in both the lightness of the cuff itself and the way the elastic band is connected to it—by one firm loop—allowing you to twist the hair tie snugly and securely in place.
Tester feedback from associate beauty director Sarah Kinonen
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“Incredibly boring, but my go-to hairstyle these days is a sleek ponytail. It’s basic and comfortable, but I do love dressing it up with either a gold or silver cuff. And this one from Rpzl is the best of the bunch on my long, fine hair—it never slips or droops. And it elevates every outfit I pair it with—even sweats!” —Sarah Kinonen, associate beauty director
Best Hair Bow: The Hair Edit Old Money Satin Bow Claw Clip
Best Hair Bow
The Hair Edit Old Money Satin Bow Claw Clip
Ulta Beauty
Why It Won: Sleek, black, and perfectly slouchy, The Hair Edit Old Money Satin Bow Claw Clip is more demure Princess of Wales than cutesy Little Bo Peep. And with its ingenious hidden claw clip, it also solves the common problem of a standard bow sliding askew or getting tangled in your ends as you try to wrap it around your hair. Instead, just clip it into your preferred style—ponytail, half-up, chignon, you name it—and the ribbon comfortably stays in place all day.
Tester feedback from senior beauty editor Jesa Marie Calaor
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“The Hair Edit’s bow is fuller than typical ribbons in that it has two bows attached to a claw clip, which adds instant texture to any style. At first, clipping it into my thick, wavy hair took some getting used to, but once I figured out the orientation, the supercute final look (half up, half down) was well worth the initial clumsiness. I also love how the bow is so big that it hides the clip entirely—even with a ponytail (and extra elastic)!” —Jesa Marie Calaor, senior beauty editor
Best Hair Ties/Best Hair Elastics: Goody Ouchless Seamless Hair Elastics
Best Hair Ties
Goody Ouchless Seamless Hair Elastics
Amazon
Why It Won: Hair tie. Rubberband. Ponytail holder. Bungee. Whatever you call ’em, you’re probably rarely without these little elastic hair essentials, whether you have one in your hair, floating around your bag, or slipped onto your wrist. There are plenty of options out there, but the Goody Ouchless Seamless Hair Elastics just can’t be beat. The basic bands have the perfect amount of stretch and a smooth surface that doesn’t tug or snag. They’re also durable, which means a pack of eight can get you through a few months (depending on how often you wear your hair up).
Tester feedback from contributing writer Sophia Panych
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“Between being a former dancer, a current workout fiend, and someone who just hates having their hair in their face, I’m never without at least one hair tie on my wrist and three in my purse. I’ve tried loads and always come back to good-old Goody because they’re the most durable and have the perfect amount of stretch—not too elastic and not too tight. I bought two 8-packs at the beginning of the pandemic (some people were worried about toilet paper shortages, I was worried about hair ties), and I’m still not done with them five years later.” —Sophia Panych, contributing writer
Best Claw Clip: Minimalista The Grand Clip
Best Claw Clip
Minimalista The Grand Clip
Selfridges
Why It Won: The person who designed the Minimalista The Grand Clip must have a degree in mechanical engineering because this oversized accessory holds up hair of any length, texture, or thickness. The extra-large, rectangular shape offers enough space for long lengths and fluffy curls, while the strong, extra-long teeth form a lock that secures every last strand. On top of that, the glossy colors and neutral prints look stylish and match with everything. Your everyday claw flip could never.
Tester feedback from contributing writer Sophia Panych
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“I live in a claw clip, but with fine, silky hair, anything too big or too heavy just falls right out—except for this extra-large option. I was amazed when I felt the teeth grab onto my twisted-up ends and then stay there for hours—even through one of Tunde’s Upper Body classes on the Peloton app. Bonus points that it looks good, too.” —Sophia Panych, contributing writer
Best Scrunchie: Hello Updo Flora Silk Scrunchie Set
Best Scrunchie
Hello Updo Flora Silk Scrunchie Set
Amazon
Why It Won: The scrunchies in the Hello Updo Flora Silk Scrunchie Set aren't just superior to your average hair ties—they’re superior to your average silk scrunchies. That’s because in addition to the fact that their 100% mulberry silk fabric prevents dents and breakage, they also come in two sizes: Smallish and Biggish, the latter of which is designed to hold fuller and thicker textures. Available in black as well as five floral-inspired colors, we’ll take one of each, thank you very much-ish.
Tester feedback from social media manager Bianca Richards
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"I'm a girl with thick, long, curly hair—a triple threat when it comes to finding scrunchies that actually keep my hair in check, depending on the style I'm going for. Over the past couple of years, I’ve made a real effort to wear my curls out and free, but sometimes it becomes too much to manage day to day, and I need to throw them up. Whether I’m using the Biggish or Smallish sizes, Hello Updo scrunchies have become my go-to. They’re the most reliable hair accessories I’ve found that give me a secure hold without any tugging, tension, or damage to my curls." —Bianca Richards, social media manager
Written by Sophia Panych
How does Allure test hair and makeup tools for Best of Beauty?
For our Best of Beauty Tools winners, we consider each product's performance across the following categories: design, efficacy, durability, and product experience. Our large group of testers—editors, top industry professionals, and other experts—try hundreds of tools on a wide range of different skin types and tones, hair types, and textures. In this category we also take into account each tester’s experience level. For instance, an innovative new blow-dryer may feature fancy, new technology or a makeup brush may debut with a never-before-seen design, but if the only people who find it intuitive to use are professionals, we take that into consideration when determining whether it is worthy of an award.
Are the winning hair tools safe for damaged or color-treated hair?
Yes. Many of the award-winning hot tools employ AI, an app link, heat-control technology, or tourmaline ceramic plates to help protect strands and prevent damage. Meanwhile, the hair brushes, hair towel, accessories, and satin bonnet on the list are all specifically designed to coddle hair of all types and textures. As always, when heat-styling your hair, prep damp strands with a heat-protecting product. You can find this year’s award-winning formulas by checking out the Best of Beauty Hair category.
Are these makeup brushes good for beginners or everyday use?
Absolutely. Whether it’s a curling iron that wraps your hair around the barrel with the push of a button or a dual-ended bronzer blush that makes blending a breeze, we give awards to hair and makeup tools that are easy to use and beginner-friendly, thanks to extraordinary engineering and intuitive designs. That means no matter the tester’s level of expertise and artistry, each of these winning gadgets can help achieve impressive results time and time again.
What kinds of tools are included in the Best of Beauty Awards?
The Best of Beauty Tools category is separated into two sections: hair tools and makeup tools. Our winning hair tools include all kinds of electric stylers—blow-dryers, straighteners, curling irons, multi-styling tools, hot brushes—as well as regular hair brushes, combs, edge tamers, and accessories. For makeup tools, we award the best sponge, tweezers, lash curler, plus brushes for foundation, concealer, contouring, and more. You can find skin-care devices by heading to our Best of Beauty Skin category.
How do I clean and care for my brushes and tools?
We recommend washing your makeup brushes and sponges weekly, at a minimum (professional makeup artists wash them after every use), using a gentle cleanser or brush soap. For hair tools, it’s best to follow the brand’s care instructions; generally, though, you can unplug electrical tools and wipe them with a damp cloth to clean buildup, and remove hair caught between bristles with a comb (this applies to hot tools and regular hair brushes). Clean tools, whether for your hair or face, perform better and last longer.
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