Kara McGrath
Contributor
Kara McGrath is a writer and editor with over 17 years of experience covering the beauty industry, women’s health, and a wide range of other lifestyle and wellness topics. After most recently serving as content director at Allure (2019-2025) and executive editor at Bustle (2014-2019), she is now fully freelance. Her writing has appeared in The New York Times, Marie Claire, Business of Fashion, Playboy, NH Magazine, and more.Kara lives in New Hampshire with her dog, four cats, and a rotating cast of foster animals. You can find more of her work at karamcgrath.com.
ON SOLID GROUND
Will Shampoo Bars Ever Have Their Moment?
This less expensive, more sustainable option just can't get traction—but there's hope for the future.
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TRASH TALK
We Need a Reality Check on Beauty Refills
There's nothing “sustainable” about most of them. But that might (finally) be starting to change.
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EYES LIT UP
20 Best Candle Gifts That Will Make Any House Smell Incredible
Brighten their day (and their space).
Booby Trap
My 10-Year Journey to Figuring Out My Chronic Breast Pain
Turns out, it wasn’t something I just had to live with.
MAKING A MESS
The Founder of Drybar Just Launched an Anti-Blowout Line of Products
Here’s our honest review of Alli Webb's newest brand, Messy.
IN THE THICK OF IT
Even My Stylist Says This Serum Makes My Hair Look Thicker
An honest review of Nécessaire’s $45 Scalp Serum.
OPINION
Kristen Stewart Is Allowed to Get Married With Visible Roots
Your wedding day doesn't have to be the grooming Olympics.
Newsletter
Introducing The Beauty Chat by Allure, a Substack Newsletter and Community for Beauty & Wellness Lovers
Each week, we'll recap all the beauty news, launches, gossip, and deep dives that have Allure editors buzzing–and welcome you to the group chat.
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Shopping
15 Best Gifts for Pet Owners, According to a Frequent Animal Fosterer
The toys, treats, and grooming tools every dog and cat lover on your list will actually find useful.
ONE TO WATCH
Olive & June's At-Home Gel Kit Might Make Me Give Up Regular Polish
It's affordable! The colors are pretty! And it doesn't give me the telltale bubble of a DIY gel mani.
ROSY CHEEKS
This Liquid Blush Is Perfect for People Who Hate Liquid Blush
The unique packaging makes it practically foolproof.
SUN SAFETY
OK. How Many Times Do We Have to Have the Sunscreen Talk?
Because the science really hasn’t changed.
REVIEW
I’m Hopping on the Burgundy Mascara Trend With This New Version From Benefit
It’s subtler than other options, making it extra good for everyday wear.
BRAIDING BUSINESS
Jewelry Made From Hair Is Poised for a Comeback
A few centuries after the Victorian fad ended, modern artists can make accessory magic from the hair of your loved ones.
Sheer Bliss
Bloomeffects Tulip Tint Lip & Cheek Balm is Glowy as Heck
And it’s easy to apply with your fingers.
WEDDING SMELLS
How to Find Your Perfect Wedding Perfume
Wedding fragrances have no rules, but these expert tips can help guide you down the (perfume) aisle.
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GLOW BABY
Armani Beauty Luminous Silk Glow Blush Is Sneakily a Multi-Tasking Product
Our honest review of the $38 blush, plus the science behind why it's so good.
YEAR IN BEAUTY
How Beauty Trends Met Their End
If you’re tired of trying to keep up with the latest looks, like blueberry milk nails, you’re not alone.
Gentle Touch
Medik8 Crystal Retinal 3 Is One Of The Gentlest Retinals I’ve Tried
It makes skin glow bright.