When I say I have frizzy hair, I mean the most severe levels of frizz you can imagine—even during dry weather. So when drizzle comes into play and there’s even an ounce of humidity in the air, I typically accept defeat and keep my hair tied up at all times. But this year I’ve made it my mission to find reliable and genuinely effective anti-frizz products that can handle UK rain so I can style my hair in any way my heart desires, and I’ve finally cracked the code on what my wavy hair needs—whether I’m wearing it natural or heat-styled.

Perfecting my wavy hair routine has helped with frizz, but rainy conditions often require a few extra weather-proofing steps. Not to mention, summer frizz can behave very differently to autumn and winter frizz, and wet conditions need varying products for maximum efficiency. If there’s one thing I’ve learnt, it’s that serious frizz demands a holistic hair care routine with hydrating and taming products at each step.

Even though this might sound like a lot of effort, it’s easy to implement once you know what to shop for. So without further ado, these are the anti-frizz products I swear by and exactly how I use them in my routine for maximum efficacy every time.

How We Test

The Marie Claire UK team takes product testing seriously, with a commitment to delivering accurate, honest and genuinely helpful reviews for our readers. For this piece, I've rounded up the anti-frizz products I use daily and have had in rotation for months. When testing, I looked at factors like ease of use, packaging, and the difference made to my frizz after each use.

The Best Anti-Frizz Products For UK Rain

• Best overall: Color Wow Dream Coat Supernatural Spray, £20.30 at Lookfantastic
• Best for dry hair: Amika Forget Frizz Anti-Frizz Conditioner, £28 at Sephora
• Best for Afro hair types: Cécred Heat Activated Silk Glaze, £32 at Cécred
• Best for flyaways: John Frieda Frizz Ease the Controller Extra Strength Serum, £9.99 at Boots
• Best for wavy hair: JVN Complete Air Dry Cream, £45 at Lookfantastic
• Best for curly hair: Umberto Giannini Curl Whip Curl Activating Mousse, £8.95 at Lookfantastic
• Best for tangle-prone hair: Gisou Honey Milk Active Repair Leave-In Conditioner Mist, £30 at Space NK
• Best for damaged hair: Sam McKnight Stronger Love Bond Repair Spray, £32 at Sam McKnight

Best anti-frizz product overall: Color Wow Dream Coat Supernatural Spray

If you battle with frizz, I highly doubt you haven’t heard of the Color Wow Dream Coat spray. Whenever the rain sets in, this is the first thing I reach for to keep my hair styled and frizz-free for multiple days—even when humidity is rife. You spray it all over towel-dried hair before heat styling and it works to waterproof the hair whilst enhancing shine and keeping frizz at bay. It also has built-in heat protection, so it’s an easy one-step fix for UK rain. The only downside is that it requires heat to work, so it can’t be used on air-dried hair. However, it truly keeps my blow dried or straightened hair looking fresh, with zero frizz, for days.

Best anti-frizz product for dry hair: Amika Forget Frizz Anti-Frizz Conditioner

I swear by both the Amika anti-frizz shampoo and conditioner as the first step in my hair care routine. The conditioner in particular works wonders to hydrate dry hair and provide smoothing properties to prep for frizz. It works for all hair types and textures, and it offers moisture without weighing the hair down. When I use this in the shower and then follow up with my post-wash styling products, I notice a big difference in my frizz levels compared to when I use a regular conditioner. Although it’s on the pricier side, even my long and thick hair doesn’t need a lot of product to feel fully smoothed.

Best anti-frizz product for Afro hair types: Cécred Heat Activated Silk Glaz

The Cécred Heat Activated Silk Glaze can be used on all hair types, but it’s particularly beneficial for Afro hair, as well as human hair wigs, weaves, and chemically-treated hair that might require extra heat protection. However, I love it for straightening my wavy hair when I want the style to look salon-fresh. The formula is a light gel-serum hybrid that is applied to towel-dried hair to form a protective barrier that is specifically engineered to control frizz and keep straight styles sleek and soft with less heat needed. It’s another one that activates with heat (and contains heat protection) and it works best with blow dry tension. The result is weather-protected silky strands that last beautifully. It also washes out easily, so you can go back to your natural texture easily with no leftover residue. If you love a straight blow dry with zero frizz, this will work wonders.

Best anti-frizz product for taming flyaways: John Frieda Frizz Ease The Controller Extra Strength Serum

I swear by the entire John Frieda Frizz Ease range for smoothing hair without spending a fortune, but the serum is my particular highlight. I use it on repeat on dry hair to refresh my ends and tame any frizz that has developed, and it functions as a great barrier before leaving the house to lock in moisture and smooth the hair down. It can also be used on freshly washed hair before styling or air drying thanks to the built-in heat protection, so it’s a true all-rounder. It is best suited for thicker hair types because the formula is fairly heavy duty, so start with one pump and work up as needed to avoid weighing the hair down.

Best anti-frizz product for wavy hair: JVN Complete Air Dry Cream

The first time I used the JVN cream, my hair honestly felt transformed. Before I discovered it a few years ago, I absolutely never left the house with my natural hair texture—mainly because my waves never had any definition and were always obscured by frizz. This formula works to define, hydrate, soften, and smooth flyaways with a creamy texture and gel-like hold for air drying. A 50p coin-sized amount is enough for my whole head, and my waves dry looking perfectly formed and moisturised without flyaways. It can even be used for slicking back hair when needed. When I don’t want to heat style but need a frizz-taming product, I reach for this every time.

Best anti-frizz product for curly hair: Umberto Giannini Curl Whip Curl Activating Mousse

Designed for curly hair, this mousse nourishes curls and fights frizz with moisture for big, bouncy, and defined texture. My curly-haired friends swear by it, and I also use it on my wavy hair when I want more bounce. Although gels can work wonders, I don’t always like the crunchy cast they can leave, and this mousse offers plenty of the same texture-holding benefits with a lightweight feel. It’s seriously budget-friendly, and a little goes a long way. I like to use it after a leave-in conditioner and before an air dry cream for extra frizz protection without weighing the hair down.

Best anti-frizz product for tangle-prone hair: Gisou Honey Milk Active Repair Leave-In Conditioner Mist

If you have frizz, I’m willing to bet that you also suffer with tangles and knots as a result. My hair seems to knot itself almost instantly in humidity, so anything to prevent that—and keep a bird’s nest situation at bay—is essential. This spray conditioner by Gisou instantly detangles and softens my hair, leaving long-lasting moisture that not only smooths frizz but prevents humidity from puffing my hair up. I like to spray it on towel-dried hair before styling, but it’s also brilliant for a day two refresh when needed. Without it, I notice how much less controlled my hair and frizz looks both immediately after styling and after being out in the rain.

Best anti-frizz product for damaged hair: Sam McKnight Stronger Love Bond Repair Spray

This new launch from Sam McKnight has quickly become a mainstay in my anti-frizz routine. It’s a leave-in rejuvenating bond repair spray with heat protection, and it can be applied to wet or dry hair to detangle, strengthen, and protect against UV and humidity. I love that it instantly softens and detangles for a defined style, with the addition of Triple Bond Repair that can help with breakage too. Damaged hair is much more prone to frizz, so a product that can hydrate and repair in one is a shortcut to frizz-free styles. It’s also suitable for air drying or blow drying, so it can be added to your routine no matter how you style your hair.

Milky toners are having a moment, and while I love them, I’ve always found their slightly thicker counterparts—milky essences—to be more effective. They’re a Korean skincare staple, so when I heard that K-beauty brand Erborian was launching one, I was keen to put it to the test.

I love the way a good milky essence gives skin that glazed, plumped finish while helping to support the skin barrier, but few have impressed me quite like the new Erborian Triple Care BB Milk. It brings an almost immediate sense of life and bounce to the skin—if yours is looking dull or flat, this is one worth knowing about.

How We Test

I’ve been using this product every morning for several weeks, paying close attention to how it transforms my almost matte, lifeless morning skin into something noticeably dewier, bouncier and more radiant. I’ve also been testing it as a base for make-up, given Erborian’s claims around its ability to prep the skin and create a smoother canvas for what follows.

Whether I’ve been using it as skincare or as a primer, I’ve compared it with the many milky toners and essences I’ve tried over the years, looking specifically at what sets this formula apart—and whether it genuinely earns its place in an already crowded category.

First Impressions

Aesthetically and sensorially, this Erborian launch is a winner. The sleek white glass bottle looks suitably premium, with a reassuring weight to it, while the slow-dispensing opening makes it difficult to pour out more than you actually need. The formula itself has a subtle, clean, botanical scent that makes application feel that little bit more enjoyable, while the silky, milky texture feels instantly nourishing on the skin.

The ingredients are equally impressive. There’s a combination of soothing and hydrating ingredients, including centella asiatica and hyaluronic acid, alongside rice peptides and Korean ginseng. It also contains an amino sugar designed to gently exfoliate and support skin renewal. The result is a formula that addresses both the immediate—hydration, comfort and plumpness—and longer-term concerns around texture, firmness and skin quality. Ingredient-wise, it ticks all my boxes.

Erborian positions Triple Care BB Milk as a three-in-one: combining the active benefits of a serum, the comfort and hydration of a moisturiser and the skin-prepping qualities of a primer. It’s an ambitious claim, but one that makes the product particularly interesting—if it can genuinely perform all three roles, there’s a compelling case for it as a routine-streamlining step.

Key Ingredients

• Rice peptides: Help support firmness and improve skin elasticity.
• Centella asiatica: Soothes and supports the skin barrier.
• Hyaluronic acid: Hydrates and helps plump the skin.
• Korean ginseng: Helps support firmer, more resilient-looking skin.
• Amino sugar: Gently exfoliates to support skin renewal and smoother texture.

How to Apply

Application couldn’t be easier. I dispense a small amount into my hand, then glide it over my skin using a light rubbing motion. It takes seconds to apply and sinks in almost immediately, without leaving behind any heaviness or residue.

You can use it morning and night, but for me, this product really comes into its own in the morning, either worn alone or underneath make-up. It’s the immediate effect it has on the skin—and the difference it makes to how make-up subsequently sits and looks—that sets it apart from the other milky toners and essences I’ve tried.

The Verdict

I’m obsessed with this product on several fronts. The immediate transformation is impressive, but what’s surprised me most is how much better my skin has looked and felt after several weeks of consistent use. My skin feels plumper and more elastic, while the texture looks smoother and more refined. I’ve also noticed that it feels stronger and more resilient overall, which I put down to the formula’s barrier-supporting benefits.

Where it really excels, though, is under make-up. Getting the balance right with pre-make-up skincare can be tricky: too little hydration and foundation can look dry or uneven; too much and everything starts to slip. Triple Care BB Milk hits the sweet spot. It leaves my skin properly hydrated and plumped, but because the texture is so lightweight and non-greasy, my make-up sits beautifully on top—and looks noticeably better for it.

I would recommend this product wholeheartedly. It delivers both immediate and longer-term benefits to the skin, while also creating an excellent base for make-up. Erborian markets it as a three-in-one product and, in my experience, that claim holds up: every time I’ve used it, I’ve felt no need to follow with additional hydrating or moisturising products. It effectively streamlines several steps into one—always a winning move.

More to Try

'Longevity' has dominated conversations around skincare and aesthetics for years. Now, the concept is reshaping the way we approach hair ageing.

Rather than simply promising stronger, healthier-looking hair, a new generation of scalp serums is making far more ambitious claims—including delaying or even reversing greying. It sounds remarkably futuristic, but how much can a topical serum really achieve? We asked leading trichologists to separate the science from the hype.

The New Era of Hair Longevity

A handful of recent launches have pushed hair longevity into particularly interesting territory.

Most recently, K18's FutureIQ™ Hair Longevity Serum has been in the spotlight for its 'revolutionary' approach to scalp and hair care. Its headline promise is to “start reversing hair age in 3 months”, reducing shedding, greying and signs of scalp ageing. The brand also claims the serum can deliver 19,000 more hairs and improve the scalp barrier, powered by its proprietary MultiVital™ technology—a multi-pathway system designed to target premature hair ageing.

Rita El-Khouri, K18’s Senior Vice President of Research and Innovation, says, "Essentially, when we’re exposed to lifestyle stressors, they can trigger inflammation and oxidative stress in the body, and the hair follicle is no exception. Within the hair, this can disrupt the processes involved in melanin production, meaning the melanocytes can become less active and produce less pigment. This is one mechanism that can contribute to premature greying beyond biological ageing. FutureIQ contains a biomimetic complex of peptides designed to support the hair from within, providing much-needed antioxidants that support the melanin process.

"It’s important to be clear that FutureIQ isn’t designed to reverse biological greying caused by ageing, nor will it reverse every grey hair. But if you think of the pigment-producing system like a lightbulb that’s flickering because of external stressors, FutureIQ is designed to help support it in switching back on."

But FutureIQ isn't the first longevity-focused hair serum that's marketed itself on anti-grey technology. Beauty Pie's Youthbomb Scalp Serum says it helps to 'anti-age' hair by targeting dry scalps, as well as thinning and grey hair. Meanwhile, one of Living Proof's bestselling Density Serum's core USPs is its ability to 'visibly minimise the appearance of grey hair,' with results in as little as 90 days.

Ron McLaughlin, SVP of R&D at Living Proof, explains: “Our Anti-Grey Complex combats greying through a blend of amino acids and potent antioxidants to help protect pigmentation against oxidative stress and maintain your natural colour.

“Scalp Care Density Serum doesn't simply mask greys; rather, it works synergistically with your natural pigmentation process. The product is intended to protect against new grey hair growth. As grey hair becomes more visible, it gets to be very difficult to reverse that process. The product is best used as a proactive preventive measure prior to having a high degree of greying.”

The Experts' Honest Opinion

Given these innovative serums don't tend to be cheap (K18's will set you back £110 per bottle), it's worth understanding how they really work. These products are impressive given their technology and forward-thinking approach to haircare, but I wanted to ask top trichologists whether they had limitations.

Generally, the trichologists I spoke with agreed that while not part of specific clinical terminology, 'hair longevity' as a concept has weight. "Hair longevity is essentially a preventative approach to hair and scalp health. It means supporting the follicle and scalp environment so that hair can remain healthy, dense and pigmented for as long as possible," says trichologist Kate Holden. "There is some genuine biology behind the concept, because ageing, oxidative stress, inflammation and environmental damage can all affect the hair follicle."

This is where serums like K18's and Living Proof's come in: both largely work by targeting new greys before they form, rather than completely 'reversing' ones that already exist. For this reason, they're perhaps best seen as preventative topical measures designed to help slow or delay the appearance of new greys, rather than treatments for grey hairs that have already formed.

"There is emerging research into ways of supporting the pigment-producing cells within the follicle, particularly by reducing oxidative stress and supporting melanin production. So, in theory, a product could potentially delay or reduce the appearance of new greys, but that is very different from reversing established grey hair. K18 FutureIQ and Living Proof's Density Serum are interesting because both are targeting mechanisms associated with pigmentation and oxidative stress," explains Holden.

"New ingredients/blends are being made each year. Potentially, if you start to use a product before you get greys, you may potentially slow down premature greying," adds Anabel Kingsley, Lead Trichologist and Brand President at Philip Kingsley, and author of Haircare: The Ultimate Guide.

Holden does remind shoppers, however, to take impressive brand stats with a slight pinch of salt. "K18 reports fewer visible greys after 12 weeks, while Living Proof reports a reduction in new grey hair growth in its 90-day study. However, these are small, brand-led studies, so I'd like to see more independent research before calling either a proven anti-grey treatment."

Marta Teixeira, Prescribing Clinical Trichologist for Polytar and NHS Dermatology Specialist Nurse, agrees: "When you see numbers like 'up to 70% fewer greys' or 'up to 19,000 more hairs,' read them carefully: they tend to come from the brand's own study rather than peer-reviewed data; 'up to' means best case and retaining hairs, meaning less shedding, [which] is not the same as growing new ones."

The point is not to view these serums as a 'one-stop-shop' for zero grey hairs, or as a way to completely banish existing greys. They're also best used alongside a well-rounded, holistic approach. "Stress management and eating an antioxidant-rich diet are the most helpful things you can do. If you have a deficiency [which you can get tested for at the doctor/through visiting a trichologist] that is causing your hair to turn grey prematurely, taking a supplement that addresses that deficiency can also help," notes Kingsley.

Going grey is also a natural part of ageing and never something to feel shame over. These serums are great additions to your daily haircare routine for overall scalp and hair health, and for helping you feel your best, most confident self. But taking steps to delay greying is a personal, optional choice, not an 'essential' one!

And, concludes Teixeira, "if you would rather cover your greys, colour does that beautifully, so please do if it makes you feel more like yourself. Keep them or dye them, whichever you love. Either way, you are not fixing a fault, because there is nothing wrong with your hair and nothing wrong with you."

The Beauty Digest is my Beauty Director’s edit of what’s actually worth your attention. Each week, I’ll be sharing the new launches I’m using and loving, the viral treatments I’m putting to the test (and what I really think of the results), plus my take on the industry conversations everyone’s talking about.

The New Launches on My Radar

Spotlight On: Dcypher Custom Foundation

I’m used to hearing brands talk about personalised shades or preach the virtues of AI-powered shade-matching technology, but UK-based make-up brand Dcypher has undoubtedly set a new benchmark.

They've just unveiled their first counters in John Lewis stores nationwide, where, rather than matching you to the closest shade in a predetermined range, their technology scans your skin and creates a bespoke foundation shade, mixed on the spot. The result is about as close to a perfect match as I’ve ever seen—and makes the traditional foundation shade range suddenly feel rather limiting.

So far, Dcypher has mixed more than 100,000 unique foundation shades, but theoretically, the possibilities are infinite. This is personalised makeup as it was always meant to be.

Beauty Buzz: Charlotte Mensah Community Matters

If you do one thing this weekend, make it a visit to Charlotte Mensah’s Community Matters exhibition. The retrospective celebrates four decades of Mensah’s extraordinary career, but its significance extends far beyond one hairstylist. Through personal photographs, objects and stories, it documents the history of Black hair, beauty and community in Britain—and gives that history the cultural space and recognition it deserves. The exhibition is only open this weekend, so make sure you catch it while you can.

As a self-proclaimed lip product fanatic, finding a new launch that ticks every single one of my boxes is rare. I need my lipsticks and glosses to be long-wearing, vibrant and—above all—avoid that flat, 'washed-out' cast that so many pinks and purples leave on my skin tone.

Beauty has been in a serious throwback era recently, so it feels entirely apt that Clinique is doubling down on nostalgia by expanding its iconic Black Honey 'Almost' Lipstick into a complete franchise.

The beloved balm-meets-gloss had a massive viral resurgence at the end of 2025, so it makes perfect sense that Clinique has smartly run with Black Honey's renewed 'it-product' status. But rather than taking the easy route with a quick reformulation or a dusting of glitter, the brand has delivered a surprisingly robust lineup: a lip liner, lip and cheek oil, eyeshadow palette, mascara, and even a nail polish, all in that famous chameleon berry hue alongside the OG lipstick. I’ve been putting the full collection to the test—and the results genuinely surprised me.

How We Test

I’ve been incorporating these into my regular makeup routine because I think it's unrealistic—no matter how good a product is—to completely switch things up. Since the range is far more extensive than just the lipstick, I tried to see whether the other products deliver the same colour payoff as the cult classic, paying close attention to how they apply and wear throughout the day. Crucially, I wanted to see if they can hold their own as standalone buys.

In the spirit of a true first impression, rather than simply applying the lipstick to my lips, I also wanted to experiment with the OG lipstick, testing whether, like some of my other favourite lipsticks and stains, the Black Honey lipstick could double as a blush.

My two favourite eyeshadow brushes—one fluffy, the other denser—and a blush brush, along with my fingers, were my tools of choice to see what gives the best finish. Essentially, I’ve done the trial and error so you don’t have to, helping you decide whether this range is genuinely more than just a nice throwback.

First Impressions

At first glance, I was pleased to see that the packaging on the lip liner and lip products felt ultra-luxe and perfectly sized to slip into even the tiniest handbags. With the mascara, however, I was a tad surprised by how lightweight the tube felt. While great for keeping your bag from straying into excess luggage territory, it didn't quite match the premium feel of the lip packaging. To be entirely honest, it didn't fill me with confidence formula-wise. But oh, how wrong I was.

After swatching the eyeshadow quad, examining the mascara wand, and taking in the deep, moody hue of the nail polish, it became immediately clear why Clinique decided to go all-in on "Black Honey Everything."

The formulas feel remarkably buttery, silky, and rich, melting seamlessly into the skin where needed—and, in the case of the nail polish, requiring just a single coat for a high-impact, full-colour moment. True to Clinique’s signature standard, everything is 100% fragrance-free, so there's no artificial scent to irritate sensitive skin or eyes. From that very first swipe, any lingering doubts vanished, and I was genuinely keen to get the full lineup onto my face (and toes).

As the range heavily relies on its Black Honey roots, it was great to see that the eyeshadow instead came in four very versatile shades: two slightly bronzy and two lighter iridescent options, perfect for both everyday wear and, with a bit of amping up, for special occasions as well.

The rest of the range also featured more 'inspired' rather than strict berry colour protocols, with the lip and cheek oil skewing slightly lighter than the polish and lipstick, and the lip liner appearing more true berry-red rather than the chameleon purple that Black Honey lovers are used to. But as with the eyeshadow quad, I found each product surprisingly adaptable, with every shade passing the 'washes out dark skin tones' test with flying colours. That said, I’d still recommend swatching the lip products in-store first to see how they play with your specific undertones.

From the very first swipe of the nail polish, I knew I was going to like it. As a "the darker, the better" lady when it comes to pedicures, I found that the deep shade complemented my skin tone beautifully.

How to Apply

Through a bit of trial and error, I found that the OG Almost Lipstick works best kept strictly to the lips. When I tried buffing it across my cheeks with a blush brush, the pigment sheared out into a barely-there 'anti-blush' effect. The lip liner, on the other hand, packs serious pigment payoff; to keep it from looking overly precise, I used my fingers to smudge out the edges for a cooler, more lived-in lip line.

Pairing the lip and cheek oil with the liner delivered a deeper, longer-wearing wash of colour than the balm. However, layering the oil beneath the classic lipstick created a gorgeous dimensional look that let that signature berry undertone shine through, so for beauty lovers who like their lipliners to do the talking, it's a combo worth noting down.

As for the eyes? To get the most seamless, eye-catching finish with the quad, I used my denser brush to pack colour onto the lid, then a fluffier blending brush to soften the crease. The mascara wand was a dream to work with, though it definitely demands a deliberate root-to-tip wiggle to make that subtle berry tint truly pop.

The Verdict

Clinique's expansion into "Black Honey Everything" proves that this iconic shade still holds serious weight in a modern routine. The collection delivers on its promise of an effortless, cohesive wash of colour, but for me the absolute star of the lineup? The Color Rich Nail Polish. I fell so in love with the deep, moody berry shade that I found myself defying the cooling weather to go open-toed—or as my friends and I call it, "getting your dawgs out"—just to show off the ultra-glossy pedicure. It delivers full-coverage colour in a single coat and with minimal chips after three weeks of wear, I can safely say it wears remarkably well.

When it came to the eyes, the mascara on its own leaned a tad too brown for my personal taste, as I'm a black tight liner, black mascara fiend. However, once paired with the fourth, deep moody shade in the eyeshadow quad, it completely transformed into a fun, softly smoked-out finish that felt intentional rather than washed out.

On the lip front, the original Almost Lipstick proved it's still best left to do what it does best: worn solo on the lips for that lived-in, bitten tint. The Quickliner, on the other hand, has quietly become a non-negotiable daily staple as the seasons shift, giving the perfect defined berry outline. And while my initial attempt at using the OG lipstick as a cream blush was a fail, the Pop Lip + Cheek Oil easily earned a permanent spot in my daily makeup bag—I'm already plotting how to make it work for a wet-look glossy eye and cheek combo next.

Ultimately, this range isn't just a timely nostalgia ploy; it’s a surprisingly adaptable lineup where individual products easily stand out as holy-grail buys in their own right.

More to Try

After seasons of barely-there shades and pared-back “clean girl” manicures, nails are having fun again. Colour is bolder, nail art more playful and the perfectly uniform manicure is giving way to unexpected combinations of prints, finishes and shades.

Social media has undoubtedly accelerated the shift. As feeds become less curated and more personality-led, manicures are following suit—becoming another form of self-expression rather than simply the finishing touch.

That doesn’t mean minimalism is over. Instead, the biggest nail trends for autumn/winter 2026 strike a balance between the two: playful but polished, directional yet wearable. From translucent matcha tones and fawn-inspired prints to mix-and-match designs and a new take on classic burgundy, these are the four trends set to define the season.

Matcha Nails

Sheer, milky polishes are nothing new, but we used to see them almost exclusively in nude, pink, and white. Now, that translucent finish is being applied to practically every colour of the rainbow.

For autumn/winter, I’m particularly drawn to muted matcha and sage greens, alongside sheer browns and mauves. They add colour interest while keeping that soft, understated quality people love about a milky manicure.

For this look, I used Manucurist Milky Matcha, applying two thin coats followed by a top coat. It also looks beautiful with just one coat if you want an even sheerer finish.

The Fawn Print Manicure

I fell in love with this look the moment I saw it. I suspect the inspiration has filtered down from fashion, where animal prints have been everywhere over the past couple of seasons. Rather than classic leopard or tortoiseshell, though, this has a softer, almost Bambi-like quality.

I created a warmer, slightly reddish interpretation, although the technique works with lots of different colour combinations. I started by painting small burgundy brushstrokes in the same direction using a fine liner brush. Once dry, I layered a sheer peach polish over the top, allowing the darker marks underneath to soften slightly and create a more muted, natural effect. I then added another layer of burgundy detailing before finishing with two coats of top coat.

Mix-and-Match Manicures

Mix-and-match nails are becoming increasingly popular, and it’s no longer just about wearing a different colour on every finger. We’re seeing contrasting patterns, nail art, gems, block colour and French tips all appearing within the same set.

For my version, I combined some of my favourite shades of the season, alternating full block colour with fine French tips. The result still feels considered and wearable, but there’s much more personality to it than a perfectly uniform manicure.

Brown-Toned Burgundy

While chocolate brown has dominated for the past few years, burgundy is the undisputed queen of autumn/winter nail colours. This season, I predict we’ll see the two meet somewhere in the middle: deep burgundies with warmer, earthy brown undertones.

It makes the classic wine-red manicure feel richer, slightly vampier and subtly different from the burgundies we’ve seen in previous seasons.

To bring another element to the look, I painted one hand in full block colour and gave the other a fine French tip in the same shade. I used Manucurist Grenat for the burgundy and Hortencia as the base for the French manicure, drawing the tip with Grenat and a fine liner brush before finishing with top coat.

When Fenty Beauty launched in 2017, it pretty much rewrote the rulebook on what “inclusive” meant within the beauty industry—and brands have spent the better part of a decade catching up. At the centre of it all was Pro Filt’r Soft Matte Longwear Foundation, which launched with 40 shades and quickly became one of the brand's defining products. So, when Fenty announced earlier this year that its hero foundation was being retired, the stakes were high for whatever came next.

That replacement arrived last week in the form of Pro Filt’r Fluid Flex Natural Matte Longwear Foundation. After three years in development, it comes in 50 entirely new shades and promises flexible, medium-to-full coverage that moves with the skin, plus 12-hour wear and resistance to sweat, humidity, and transfer.

Of course, foundation is one of those products for which a single review only tells you so much. Skin tone and undertone are only part of the equation; there’s skin type, texture, pigmentation and redness to consider, not to mention whether you want your base barely there or reassuringly full coverage.

So, rather than give you one verdict, three beauty editors with different skin tones, types, concerns and coverage preferences put the new Pro Filt’r through its paces. Here’s how it performed.

How We Test

All three editors wore the foundation from morning until evening, going about their usual daily routines to see how it performed in real-world conditions. Each assessed the formula for ease of application, shade and undertone match, blendability, initial finish and coverage, as well as how it wore throughout the day and interacted with their individual skin type and concerns.

The Verdict

Ata-Owaji Victor

Skin type & concerns: Combination skin with areas of pigmentation

Shade: 526N

Ata's Verdict: When a brand attempts to reformulate or relaunch a holy-grail product, I tend to hold my breath, and with dewy, skin-like formulas dominating recent launch cycles, I wondered, whether with this new launch Fenty Beauty would opt to abandon its matte heritage to chase the glow?

Thankfully, their reimagined Pro Filt’r Soft Matte Longwear Foundation doubles down on its roots while feeling skinlike upon application. Despite being encased in a sleek, upgraded bottle, this medium-to-full coverage formula feels distinctly tailored for lovers of 2016-era full beats—without the heavy, mask-like feel. It captures the original's seamless soft-matte finish. I found that in order to achieve full-spectrum coverage it did require a slightly more generous pump than other foundations with similar finishes.

As someone with persistent hyperpigmentation on the lower half of my face, finding a formula I can use all over without looking flat, chalky, or pulling orange is a constant struggle. This product, however, didn't disappoint; my best current shade in the new launch (526N) delivers a rich, neutral colour payoff that blended into my skin seamlessly. I’ve been loving using the brand’s sun Stalk'r Bronzer as a contour-as-bronzer this summer, and found that it was easy to add in dimension post-foundation without feeling like the colours had blended into one.

While 526N is my ideal late-summer match (as in I was struggling to see where foundation began and skin ended) I’m interested to see if I’ll need a shade step-down as my tan fades.

Lottie Winter

Skin type & concerns: Combination, prone to oiliness & redness

Shade: 186N

Lottie's Verdict: I'm pretty picky when it comes to foundation and rarely stray from a few select favourites. But this one has, without exaggeration, blown me away. The coverage is substantial—enough to even out pigmentation and redness without requiring much in the way of concealer—yet somehow it still looks fresh and natural rather than heavy or overly made-up.

What impressed me most, though, was the finish. For a long-wearing, natural-matte foundation, there’s a surprising amount of life to it. It gives my skin a really lovely glow, but crucially never tips over into looking oily, even as the day goes on. As someone whose skin can get quite shiny by lunchtime, that balance is incredibly difficult to find: my skin still looks like skin, just smoother, more even and considerably more even and poreless.

The longevity also really impressed me. It sets quickly—I initially worried I wouldn’t have enough time to blend—but doesn’t seem to harden onto the face or possess that mask-like quality of some long-wear formulas. It moves with the skin and stays supple. As the day went on, the finish became ever so slightly more luminous, but never greasy, and I didn't feel the need to powder or retouch it once.

It's rare that a foundation manages to give me the coverage and staying power I want without sacrificing the fresh, skin-like finish I prefer, but this definitely does both. Consider me converted.

Nessa Humayun

Skin type & concerns: Dry skin

Shade: 186N

Nessa's Verdict:

I’m rarely a foundation wearer, I prefer light tints or a smidge of concealer all over, which makes me picky when it comes to foundations—but I have to say, I love this formula. Initially, I was a little put off when I read that it was matte and long-wearing, as that normally means cakiness, but this foundation moves with the skin, and blends effortlessly; you can build it up or sheer it down depending on how much coverage you want. I find that I get ample glow (my desired finish) with just one coat, and if I add a little where needed, like my under-eyes, I don't need any concealer either.

Kudos to the team for providing such a comprehensive range of shades (there are 50) and multiple undertones (neutral, olive, cool, rosy, warm, golden, and peach). I’m olive-skinned with pink and neutral undertones, so it can be tricky to find something that works, but this is just seamless on my skin; any blemishes, discolouration and pigmentation disappear. It’s made it into my daily rotation, and that’s a rare feat for a foundation.

There are few people who can claim to have fundamentally shifted the way we see, understand and celebrate hair. Charlotte Mensah is one of them. Throughout her four-decade career, the award-winning hairstylist, entrepreneur, and author has helped move Afro, curly, and textured hair from the margins of the British beauty conversation to its rightful place within it. Along the way, she has built her Hair Lounge salon into a Notting Hill institution, launched an award-winning haircare line and become the first Black woman inducted into the British Hairdressing Awards Hall of Fame.

Now, her extraordinary career is being put into cultural context. Charlotte Mensah: Community Matters, a landmark retrospective at London’s Ladbroke Hall from 8th – 13th September, brings together photography, film, personal artefacts, archival material, soundscapes and interactive installations to trace Mensah’s journey from childhood in Ghana to 1980s North West London and, ultimately, the upper echelons of global hairdressing.

By placing Afro hair at the centre of conversations about identity, heritage, creativity and belonging, the exhibition makes the case for hair as cultural history—and for Mensah’s 40-year career as an important part of British beauty history.

Here, Mensah shares the memories, lessons and people behind that legacy, and reflects on how far the industry has come—and where it still has work to do.

“I’ve Really Lived—and None of It Happened Alone”

Going through thousands of photographs for the exhibition made me realise just how much life has actually been lived. A photograph can unlock a memory in extraordinary detail—I can look at an image from February 1997 and suddenly remember who was there, where we were and what we were talking about. More than anything, it has made me realise that I’ve really lived. There have been ups and downs, smiles and frowns, but I persevered—and none of it happened alone. It takes a community, and this exhibition is really a celebration of them.

“I Spent My Last Money on a Pair of Tongs That Still Work Today”

The most emotional object in the exhibition is probably my tongs. In 1988, when I had just turned 18, I saved my salon tips and wages from the Youth Training Scheme to buy a pair like the ones we used at Splinters. I was living alone in a hostel and beginning to dream big after losing my mum five years earlier. Buying those tongs was the first real sign of intent about this vocation. Looking at them now, I can see that 18-year-old Charlotte in the mirror, completely unaware of the path ahead.

“Success Is Whether You Can Look at Yourself When Nobody Else Is Looking and Be at Peace”

Life moves so quickly that sometimes you have to make yourself stop. I’m always thinking about what’s next, but you can’t properly plan your future if you never take an honest look at your past. We live in an age of constant comparison, with a 24-hour window into everybody else’s achievements and perfect moments. But success, to me, is whether you can look at yourself when nobody else is looking and be at peace with what you’ve actually done.

“Somebody With Textured Hair Should Be Able to Walk Into Any Salon and Feel Understood”

We need to talk much more about education. Hairdressing is an art, but underneath that artistry has to be knowledge. I’m not necessarily saying every hairdresser needs a licence, but we need clearer standards that demonstrate what somebody has actually been trained to do. My idea of real inclusion is simple: somebody with Afro or textured hair should be able to walk into a salon anywhere in this country and feel confident that somebody there understands their hair.

“Heritage Isn’t About Looking Backwards—It’s About Understanding What You’re Carrying Forward”

Everybody comes from somewhere. What becomes interesting is deciding what that inheritance means to you, rather than allowing somebody else to decide it for you. Accra and London have always existed side by side in my world because both places gave me different parts of myself. Heritage isn’t about looking backwards for the sake of nostalgia; it’s about understanding what you’re carrying forward.

“Don’t Confuse Visibility With Stability”

Loving what you do doesn’t make running a business easy. You can be brilliant at your craft and still have to learn about people, money, negotiation, stock, rent, mistakes and a hundred other things nobody puts on Instagram. One of my biggest lessons has been not to confuse visibility with stability. Awards and press are lovely, but you still have to build something that works when nobody is talking about you. Forty years teaches you there are no shortcuts.

“I Want Respect, Care and Dignity to Be So Normal We No Longer Need to Call Them Progress”

By 2046, I hope somebody with Afro, curly or textured hair can walk into any salon in the UK and have their hair done properly, and into any retailer and find products that work for them without searching for the tiny section somebody has decided belongs to them. Ultimately, it comes down to respect, care and dignity. I want those things to be so normal that we no longer need to call them progress.

The Beauty Digest is my Beauty Director’s edit of what’s actually worth your attention. Each week, I’ll be sharing the new launches I’m using and loving, the viral treatments I’m putting to the test (and what I really think of the results), plus my take on the industry conversations everyone’s talking about.

The New Launches on My Radar

Spotlight On: Sarah Creal Beauty

I've been following Sarah Creal for several years now. As a beauty insider, she's one of those names that instantly commands respect and admiration. After all, she was behind some of the most iconic beauty brands of our time—Tom Ford Beauty, Victoria Beckham Beauty, Bobbi Brown and the original Prada Beauty among them. In other words, even if you didn't know her name, chances are you've known her work.

Her most recent venture bears her own name, and this week Sarah Creal Beauty finally landed in the UK, exclusively at Space NK. But unlike so many new brands on the block, this one has a serious USP: it isn't gagging for the attention of Gen Z. In fact, it isn't really giving them a second thought. Sarah Creal Beauty has been intelligently and painstakingly designed for, in the brand's own words, “babes 40+”.

And that doesn't just mean putting a 50-year-old woman in the campaign imagery. Before launching, Creal spoke to 2,000 women over 40 about what was no longer working for them—and then formulated accordingly. Concealer suddenly settling into fine lines? Face Flex is designed to flex with the skin without creasing or fading. Mascara transferring as eyelids become more hooded and richer eye creams enter the equation? Back of the Cab is a tubing formula designed to stay put, then break down easily with warm water. Losing some of the natural definition and colour around the lip line? pHLip reacts with your skin's pH to create a personalised wash of colour while adding back definition. Every formula is clinically tested exclusively on women over 40, too.

Perhaps most refreshing of all is that none of it feels apologetic. This isn't beauty for women over 40 dressed up in wafty euphemisms, nor is youth being held up as the end goal. It's smart, it's solving a genuine need and, judging by the brand's trajectory so far, women were eagerly waiting for it: Sarah Creal Beauty reportedly turned over $10 million in its first year in the US, and I suspect the UK will prove every bit as receptive.

Turns out, you can build an exciting new beauty brand without trying to make a 21-year-old want it—or convincing a 40-year-old she should look like one. Funny that.

Beauty Buzz: Dyson's £400 Toothbrush

I love a Dyson keynote. They’re the beauty equivalent of a Steve Jobs iPhone reveal: the showmanship, the fanfare, the almost comical juxtaposition between Sir James Dyson’s understatement and the engineering spectacle of what he’s actually presenting. The latest took place in Paris on Tuesday and revealed an entirely new category for Dyson: oral care. More specifically, a toothbrush.

Except the Dyson CameraJet™ isn’t really just a toothbrush. It brushes, flosses and rinses simultaneously, using a tiny 100k-pixel camera and machine learning to scan your mouth 28 times a second, identify the gaps between your teeth and, within 100 milliseconds of spotting one, fire a precisely targeted, one-millisecond conical jet of mouthwash into it. It can even livestream the inside of your mouth to the MyDyson app, where you can see your brushing coverage and get feedback on things like overpressure and over-scrubbing. Six years of R&D, 470,000 dental images used to train its machine-learning system and 16 million lines of code have gone into making brushing your teeth considerably more technologically advanced.

And it costs a cool £419.99.

At first, I gasped along with the rest of the world. £420? For a toothbrush? But then I started thinking: how much does a top-of-the-range electric toothbrush actually cost these days? Philips Sonicare's premium models have retailed for £599.99, while Oral-B's iO10 carries an £800 price tag. Suddenly, Dyson's pricing doesn't seem quite as deranged as the headlines suggest.

And, impressive though those other existing brands' brushes are, they don't have a camera watching your teeth in real time, recognising each interdental gap and automatically firing mouthwash into it as you brush.

So, yes, £420 is an objectively enormous amount of money to spend on a toothbrush. But if it can combine brushing, interdental cleaning and mouth rinsing into one two-minute routine—and make people more likely to do the bit of oral hygiene so many of us skip—I'm not convinced it's the most ridiculous £400 beauty-tech purchase I've encountered. (Plus, think of all the money you'll save on dental work over the years.)

Do I need one? Absolutely not. Do I now desperately want to watch a tiny camera locate the gaps between my teeth and precision-blast them clean? Yes, I think I do. Don't you?

I’m sure you are aware of the kinds of comments that are made when aesthetic treatments go wrong. Why would you let somebody mess with your face like that? Clearly she went to see somebody dodgy. The feeling—sometimes implied, sometimes explicitly expressed—is that the person affected ‘should have known better’.

This is, obviously, incredibly judgmental. But more than that, it ignores the beauty standards that drive people to seek treatment, as well as the huge gaps in our current system that leave people exposed to harm. And it’s women who are most affected.

By global standards, the current rules are lax and their loopholes notorious. For example, technically, anybody can inject filler. No formal qualifications or insurance are legally required, nor the medical training needed to manage the situation if and when things go wrong—and injecting filler in even slightly the wrong place can be catastrophic. In 2024, a woman died after receiving a liquid BBL—a highly dangerous procedure whereby filler is injected into the buttocks.

Then there are the counterfeit, unlicensed and illegal products that are rife in the UK. Last summer, 41 cases of botulism were reported in the space of almost two months, linked to the use of an unlicensed fake product.

And yet somehow, we are in a place where navigating the complexities of our aesthetics industry is entirely on the consumer. If you end up being treated by somebody inexperienced, well, that’s your fault for not checking a list of things you may not have even known about—the implication being that you are somehow responsible for things going wrong.

When you look at who is most likely to experience these complications, and who is most judged when they do occur, there is an undercurrent of misogyny and classism. Aesthetic treatment complications are therefore incredibly political.

The Presumption of Safety

Many consumers assume safety is universal when booking aesthetic treatments. “I think it's a genuinely reasonable gap in understanding rather than any failure on patients' part,” says Dr Caroline Warden, GP and Aesthetic Doctor and founder of the Dr Caroline Warden Skin & Aesthetic Clinic. “Most people assume that if someone is advertising and charging for a treatment, they must be operating within some regulated framework.”

But sometimes they aren’t. What seems like an industry that must have watertight rules in place around who can pick up a syringe could not be further from reality. While botulinum toxin (often the brand name Botox) is a prescription-only medicine, dermal fillers and other aesthetic devices, like lasers, aren’t restricted to any particular qualification.

This somewhat undermines the “should have known better” argument. Known what, exactly? That someone legally offering treatments that break the skin, including injections, may have no medical qualifications? That a legitimate-looking business may not be equipped to manage an emergency?

“Patients tell me they feel ashamed, ‘stupid’ and confused as to how there are no regulations to govern who is allowed to inject,” says Dr Steven Land, Aesthetics Doctor and Director of Novellus Aesthetics, adding that this is exacerbated when they learn how unusual this lack of rules is compared to the rest of the world.

Dr Warden echoes this. “Patients frequently arrive apologetic, almost as though the complication reflects a mistake on their part rather than a shortfall in the care they received,” she says.

Of course, complications can happen even in experienced hands. “No aesthetic treatment is completely without risk,” says Dr Cindy Teo, GP and Aesthetic Doctor and founder of Dr Cindy Aesthetics. “The important difference is how we minimise those risks, and whether a practitioner can recognise a complication early and act quickly before it becomes more serious.”

The crucial difference is that regulated professionals are overseen by various bodies, so consumers can complain when things go wrong, and they are bound by strict codes of conduct. A higher level of training means they also understand anatomy and know when a treatment is unsafe or unsuitable for a patient, including for specific skin tones. Medics have a duty of care and can lose their licenses in the event of serious misconduct. The system is far murkier when it comes to unqualified and unregulated practitioners.

The issue, then, isn’t that cheap treatments are dangerous. The issue is whether appropriate safeguards exist before, during and after treatment. Too often, the answer is no.

The Class Divide in Aesthetic Treatment Safety

The desire (or pressure) to be “beautiful” isn’t new, but we live in a time of social media filters and AI capable of generating entirely new versions of what we could look like. Beauty standards are served up on our phones almost constantly, so it’s hardly surprising that so many women end up wanting treatments. But the playing field isn’t level.

Much has been written about the gap between those who can and cannot afford beauty and aesthetic treatments, and how those who can benefit from them. But when those from lower-income backgrounds do seek treatment, there is still a disparity. “Cost can affect access to safer treatment, as those on lower incomes may have fewer affordable options and be left more exposed to risk in a poorly regulated market,” says Caroline Corby, Chair of the Professional Standards Authority for Health and Social Care (PSA).

Research published earlier this year by UCL also suggests that higher concentrations of non-medical practitioners offering Botox, in settings like salons and spas, are more likely in deprived areas. It is silly to pretend there isn’t a kind of safety gap at play, driven by who can afford access to treatments in the safest settings.

This is where simply warning consumers against anything “suspiciously cheap”, though important, can feel inadequate. Of course, people should be warned of red flags. But when the safest treatment is financially inaccessible to many, price often makes the decision—which is why stricter regulations are critical to consumer protection.

There are horror stories of procedures being carried out in places like public toilets or garages. The knee-jerk instinct to ask why somebody would agree to that is understandable. But it shouldn’t stop there. Why was that treatment available in the first place? And what combination of beauty pressures, financial constraints, regulatory failures and a desperate desire to access treatment made it an attractive enough proposition to accept? This is clearly about more than enjoying a beauty self-care moment.

Regardless of the circumstances, everyone should be entitled to help and support when complications arise.

When the System Blames the Patient

Nevertheless, we know that the judgment that can come with complications is very real. However, as Corby says, “People should have clear information about risks, but the focus should be on better safeguards and standards, not placing responsibility on the consumer when things go wrong.”

Ashton Collins, director of Save Face, says that judgement can even extend to the institutions supposed to protect people. “We've had situations where women have been told when they've arrived at hospital, you are the illest person in this hospital, and unless you have an operation in the next hour, you will die. That's been caused by somebody who has been completely negligent and is technically, legally assault,” she says.

Yet when cases are reported, Collins says women can be treated as though they’ve made “stupid choices driven by vanity. Basically, ‘what did you expect’ is the vibe.”

Can you imagine this playing out in other industries? A person is left with a life-threatening injury after a commercial service and they are met with judgement and blame?

Accountability, meanwhile, can be remarkably difficult. Collins describes “ghost practitioners” who operate through social media, sometimes without patients even knowing their full name or address. “When things go wrong, she blocks you,” Collins says. “That cycle will go on; she'll close that page down and set up somewhere else.”

The NHS and the costs of treating these complications are frequently brought into the debate, too, given that these are elective treatments. But if public money is repeatedly being spent treating preventable injuries, why is so much outrage directed at the patient, not the systems that allow unsafe practice to flourish? Why aren’t there better systems in place to prevent as many of these injuries as possible?

Has Prejudice Helped Hold Up Regulation?

We know women are often blamed when treatment goes wrong. So have misogyny, classism, and those attitudes around beauty have contributed to the lack of urgency in protecting them from complications? I don’t think it’s a wild assumption.

“In the past, I have wondered whether the slow regulatory response could be partly attributed to a feeling that when things go wrong, women ‘bring this on themselves’, perhaps through a perception that undergoing these procedures is driven by vanity,” says Corby. “It shouldn’t matter what the procedure is; if it carries a high risk, there should be adequate protections around it to keep people safe and well.”

Regulation is coming (though not without criticism), but progress has been slow. A proposed licensing scheme for England, which categorises treatments via a traffic light system, is still under discussion, while Scotland has announced its licensing scheme, set to come into effect in 2027. No such proposals have been made for Wales or Northern Ireland.

‘What did you expect?’ is therefore unfair and entirely the wrong question when complications arise. This is an industry where, currently, qualifications aren’t mandatory, standards vary wildly, accountability is hard to enforce and consumer protection is an afterthought. But when the stakes are so high, everyone should have the right to expect that their treatment is regulated accordingly.

How to Stay Safe Until Regulations Are Strengthened

• Check registration via the General Medical Council for doctors, General Dental Council for dentists, and the Nurses and Midwifery Council for nurses and nurse prescribers
• Read about PSA’s Look Before You Book Campaign—and look for the accreditation badge before booking
• Use the Save Face Register and resources
• Read BCAM’s Vet It Before You Get It Campaign—including the Pre-Consultation Safety Questionnaire

This content is for informational and educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice - always consult with a qualified healthcare professional before treatment decisions.

Growing up, my family had very specific hair categories. One of my older sisters had 'long hair'—the kind that cascaded past her shoulders and invited endless questioning about her diet and my mother's choice in products. The eldest sister had the 'thick hair', a dense, enviable crown that, as we grew older, seemed impermeable to damage from dyes and 'unique' styling. And then there was me, the youngest of three, with hair that, despite all the same genetics and environment, never quite got the memo about growing past my shoulders. So, whenever wash day came around, I became used to my mother uttering the same gentle assurance, "Oh, but Ata has the 'softest' hair."

The older I got, the more I realised that this use of diplomatic euphemism was her way of sidestepping the conversation that many Black women have faced when their hair doesn't possess the length or curl pattern traditionally coveted. However, it inadvertently taught me early on that my tight, 4C coils were something to be carefully reframed or corrected. Since then, for as long as I can remember, society has insisted that a Black woman’s relationship with her hair must fit into one of two sweeping arcs.

In camp one, there is the tragedy narrative: a story filled with chemical burns from relaxers, self-loathing, and a lifelong reliance on wigs and weaves used strictly as a disguise to conform to Eurocentric ideals. Then, for some Black women, there is the triumphant redemption arc—the emotional "natural hair journey" sparked by a big chop. It is a cinematic moment where you throw away the heat tools, embrace your afro in all its shrinkage-heavy glory, and declare that every kink on your head is a sacred act of political defiance and radical self-love.

For years, I believed I sat comfortably outside both narratives. The last time I saw a box of relaxer—and felt that familiar, sharp burn at the base of my scalp—was when I was 16 and for me, stepping away from chemical straighteners wasn't a radical choice. There was no solemn ceremony in front of a bathroom mirror. Instead, weaning my hair off the ‘creamy crack’ was due to a combination of living in a Black hair shop desert, not wanting to make the 40-minute bus journey to buy the necessary products, and teenage stubbornness (read: laziness) when the baton of haircare was officially passed to me.

Since then, I've gone through a multitude of hairstyles and kept wash days adaptable to my lifestyle; I rarely think or talk about my hair in a negative way. However, looking back, my hair transition has served as a point of questioning in my career as a beauty journalist. My relationship with my hair has never fit firmly into either of these camps, but when Black hair remains such a politicised topic in beauty, can I ever truly be neutral about mine?

It’s a delicate tension that exploded back into the public square early this year, led by TikTok creator @sshoz, whose viral video asking black women, “When’s the last time you left the house wearing your natural hair?” sparked a renewed discussion about the effects of a culture that on wigs, weaves, and protective styles may be harming both Black women’s relationships with their natural texture and outsiders’ perceptions of it. renewed conversations surrounding the natural hair movement by highlighting a crucial flaw within the Black hair space.

In some ways, both positive reactions have reached a critical juncture in this "third wave" of the natural hair movement—one that exposes how much of our socialisation around Afro hair has produced harmful messaging on both sides of the spectrum. It reveals how broader socialisation continues to shape the ways in which even Black spaces discuss racialised beauty.

Paradoxically, the current natural hair movement often, even if inadvertently, mirrors much of the harshness found in the negative or non-inclusive language that has historically surrounded Afro hair in the West. Hair is still frequently described as "stubborn," "difficult," or "unruly." It is the same language passed down by our mothers and grandmothers—a residual byproduct of survival and assimilation that taught us our natural hair was something to be conquered rather than accommodated. Today, even well-meaning natural hair spaces end up recycling that same punitive vocabulary, demanding perfection under the guise of care. So, with this in mind, is it ever possible to opt out completely?

To put it plainly, according to current research, the answer is no. To exist as a Black woman with 4C hair is to navigate this landscape of hyper-visibility and relentless institutional scrutiny. A recent report by The Guardian highlighted how discriminatory grooming policies persist globally—from classrooms in Jamaica and the UK to corporate boardrooms—enforcing colonial-era ideals of "respectability" and neatness. Even where regulatory progress occurs, the shift is painfully slow. Michelle De Leon, founder of World Afro Day, noted that while progress has been made in some countries—pointing to guidance from the UK’s equality watchdog on school uniforms designed to help prevent hair discrimination—the overall global picture remains strikingly uneven.

Meanwhile, research published by the University of Reading and community organisation TRIYBE explored the profound mental health toll of this hypervigilance, highlighting how Black women carry a constant burden of identity suppression in spaces that police their natural crowns.

Having reported extensively on Black hair politics over the years, I've tracked how we have historically been forced to carve out our own digital spaces to reclaim power—building online communities that paved the way for actionable change by recentering our textures, even in environments that refuse to make room for them. Writer and advocate Zeynab Mohamed captures this tension perfectly when reflecting on the intersecting pressures of visibility, race, and identity. "I think the idea that we can ever feel truly neutral about our appearance is almost utopian, particularly when it comes to hair," Mohamed explains. "Black women and Muslim women often have a complicated relationship with theirs. It can feel as though our hair doesn't fully belong to us; it's constantly being scrutinised, politicised or treated as public property."

Mohamed’s insight hits directly at the quiet dissonance I’ve felt for years. "For a long time, I thought I had a neutral relationship with my hair and my hijab, partly because I wanted to separate myself from all the external commentary," she admits. "But I've realised, it’s not as easy as that. Until we loosen—and ultimately break—the societal expectations placed on women's hair, neutrality will remain out of reach for many Black women and for women who wear the hijab."

Yet, what the current online discourse routinely misses is that for many Black women, protective styling and exaggerated hair aesthetics have evolved far beyond simple tools of assimilation. Many of the styles Black women now wear have expanded into a distinct expressive category, functioning much like the hyper-performative aesthetics embraced by other marginalised groups—such as drag queens—who construct an amplified, stylised version of femininity to protect themselves against misogynoir and societal hostility. In this context, hair becomes an art form, a shield, and a creative declaration of space rather than a quiet retreat into Eurocentric blending.

Still, claiming neutrality while carrying a personal history of quiet adjustments leaves me constantly interrogating my own motives: Is this genuine neutrality, or is it internalised racism at play? Is my choice to step back from the politics of my hair simply a subtle, subconscious effort to render myself "other" or invisible—a protective crouch to avoid the discrimination that comes with being fully seen?

Recognising that pure neutrality might be an ideal rather than an immediate reality doesn't mean giving up on peace. Decoupling my self-worth from my hair texture requires recognising that neutrality isn't a state of complete detachment that you magically wake up with; it is an active choice to unlearn those old, bedroom-fashioned rules and resist the harsh language on both ends of the ideological spectrum. This constant pressure to perform hair care as either a political statement, a cultural armour, or an act of emotional healing is exhausting. We are rarely given permission for our hair to just be hair—dead cells, protein, a canvas, or simply a non-event.

I don't hate my "soft" 4C hair. I appreciate its versatility, its gravity-defying ability to change shape, and the complex history it carries. But I also refuse to spend four hours every Sunday wrestling with detangling brushes and a deep sense of moral duty just to prove a point to the world. Some days, I wear my natural hair because it’s easy. Other days, I wear extensions or a wig because I want a different look without analysing what it means for my soul.

Moving away from the binary of trauma versus triumph doesn't mean erasing the past or diminishing the cultural importance of Black hair. It simply means claiming the right to exist without constant self-analysis. My hair is part of me, but it is not the entirety of my story. It doesn't need to be a political manifesto, a shield, a secret compromise, or an object of worship. Sometimes, it’s just hair—and striving toward that plain, simple fact is the most peaceful journey of all.

People have been taking to social media to share the expensive things they believe are genuinely worth the money, so we thought: why not do the same for beauty? With an overwhelming amount of choice in almost every category imaginable—not to mention the ever-growing list of treatments on offer—it can be difficult to know what's actually worth splashing out on. Ahead, top Beauty Editors divulge the truly transformative discoveries that are worth every penny...

Nessa Humayun, Beauty Editor

Iris Maglanoc’s Bespoke IM Facial , £385: Out of all the many facials I've had, Iris Maglanoc's has been pretty life-changing. She uses a combination of Golki (South Korean bone-setting massage), myofascial release, craniosacral therapy and lymphatic drainage—and often spends more time on your back and neck than your face. But don't get me wrong: the results are absolutely transformative: I always emerge looking my absolute best; everything, especially the jawline, cheekbones and brows, are lifted (and stay that way for weeks on end). She's a magician, truly.

Keratin Hair Treatments at Haug London Haus, from £230: Keratin treatments, which promise to smooth hair and bust frizz, were all the rage in the 2000s, but seem to have fallen out of favour of late. After having one this year at Haug London Haus in Soho, I can't believe it—this is the only thing that leaves my hair so smooth and sleek that I practically don't need to do anything to it after stepping out of the shower. It's a godsend during a tropical holiday, or anywhere humidity can be an issue. And while previous treatments were known for containing nasties, many formulas—including those used at this salon—are now completely formaldehyde-free, so there's no damage to you or your hair.

Colour at Nicola Clarke Salon with Francesco De Chiara, from £180: If it's good enough for Ariana Grande, it's good enough for me—Francesco at Nicola Clarke in Soho looks after the tresses of a certain Wicked star, and I'm always in safe hands with him. Francesco really gets colour, and I trusted him to take me back to brunette after a particularly disastrous dye job—he's been the man for me ever since. He's also excellent at preserving gloss and hair health throughout it all. If you're there, make sure to see Mitchell Ladbrook afterwards for a very precise cut and blow-dry.

Aerolase Neo at Tan&Co, from £320 per session: I have painfully sensitive skin, which means I'm unable to undergo harsh (yet effective) lasers for hyperpigmentation and scarring. That's why I was so pleased when Teresa Tan of Tan&Co introduced me to Aerolase Neo: a no-downtime laser that's completely pain-free and works on a wide range of skin tones, including deeper Fitzpatrick skin types. I used it to treat scarring, but it's also great for acne, inflammation, redness, uneven skin and even hair removal for those with PMOS. You barely feel like you're having anything done, but the results the following week are astounding.

Waxing at Strip, from £23: It's hard to find a good waxing place, but Strip consistently delivers—which is a dream when you're undergoing something painful, on intimate areas to boot. The practitioners always go above and beyond to make you feel comfortable, and I'm usually in and out within 30 minutes, tops. It costs a little more than other waxing salons, but it's completely worth it, and with locations across central London, including Soho, Broadgate and Islington, it's ideal if you live in the city. Oh, and you can even pop on an LED face mask during your treatment.

Dominic Cadogan, Beauty Editor

Maison Crivelli Hibiscus Mahajád Extrait de Parfum, £205: I was introduced to Maison Crivelli a few years ago and while there are several of its scents in regular rotation in my fragrance wardrobe, Hibiscus Mahajád takes the top spot and is easily one of my all-time favourites. I don’t say this lightly! A heady blend of rose, pomegranate, vanilla, amber and leather, the resulting concoction is almost like a delicate cocoon of scent that floats around you all day long. Believe me when I tell you that I’m showered with compliments every single time I wear this fragrance.

Tatcha The Dewy Skin Cream, £69: There’s a part of me that wishes it didn’t love this moisturiser as much as I do, but the skin wants what the skin wants. In fairness, this is one of the hardest working products in my skincare routine. The mere act of applying The Dewy Skin Cream to your skin feels like a luxury and I savour every moment massaging it into every corner and crevice of my face. However, it’s not just the effortlessly, dewy finish that keeps me coming back for more – though that alone is enough to deserve my hard-earned cash. It’s also the silent work it’s doing in the background, plumping, smoothing and brightening the skin that will convince people you’ve turned to tweakments.

Violette_Fr Balm Amour, £27: As a lip product connoisseur, the pockets of my various bags are stuffed to the brim with balms, glosses and tints to make sure my kisser is always looking, well… kissable. While I’m happy to dabble with budget buys, I always feel lost when I don’t have Balm Amour to hand. From its cooling ceramic tip to its nourishing formula that literally doesn’t budge, this sweet, French vanilla-flavoured lip treatment is a luxury that justifies its £27 price tag.

Byredo Vesuvio Eyeshadow Palette, £92: While makeup palettes may have mostly fallen out of favour with the beauty world, they still have a fan in this beauty editor. Not one for the Clean Girls out there, if, like me, you love to serve maximalist makeup on a daily basis, you’ll be similarly obsessed with the 18 shimmering shades that deliver a powerful pop of colour – whether applied with a makeup brush or your fingers before rushing out the door. It’s so rare to find a palette without a single dud shade, making this one worth every penny.

Bamford Attar of Roses Geranium Scented Candle, £70: This is without a doubt the best candle I have ever smelled. Whether or not you’re a fan of rose scents, this will win you over. Somehow simultaneously light and punchy, I don’t understand how either, the fresh scent immediately fills the room (and the rest of the house) without ever feeling overpowering. It’s as if you’ve taken a stroll through the arden of Eden. I know, I know, it’s just a candle, but one sniff is all it’ll take to convince you otherwise.

Laura Capon, Beauty Editor

Advanced Nutrition Programme Skin Moisture IQ Supplements, £81: I know it seems like an eye-watering amount for a supplement and let’s be real, it is. But truly, no other brand I’ve tried has given my skin real visual improvements, like Advanced Nutrition Programme. The Skin Moisture IQs are my favourite because they truly make me glow, to the point I actually got complemented on my foundation, when I wasn’t wearing any. They come in a blister style pack and each day you have 5 capsules: 1 x Hyaluronic acid + ceramides + manganese, 2 x omegas 3 & 6, 1 x vitamins A & D and 1x Modern Multivitamin + Minerals. It’s so helpful that they have done the work for you in giving exactly what your skin needs and to me it’s as important as a serum.

Hello Klean Shower Head+, £96: I was a late adopter to the filter shower head game and that is something I really regret. Truthfully, I always just thought they would be such a faff fitting. Hello Klean’s Shower Head+ filters out scale, metals and chlorine, while also tracking and reminding you when to change the filter. If you are hesitant and live in an area like London where we’re known for our hard water, I’d say just look at the build up on your sink and taps to give you an idea of what’s being deposited on your head. I used to always love how much softer my hair was on holiday and I feel using this filter is the closest I’ve got to recreating that. Plus, there’s a real difference in shine. Oh, and turns out, after all those years, you just literally screw it onto your shower head.

Dyson Airwrap i.d Multi-Styler and dryer, £379: Despite being a beauty journalist, I don’t think I’m actually high maintenance about many things, except when I have to use a hairdryer that isn’t my Dyson. Whenever I dry my hair with something else, it always feels so dry and fried. In a way that my Dyson would never. I truly think it has saved my hair from so much unnecessary damage over the years and feels a lot softer because of it. In terms of the other attachments, I love the big blow dry brush for cheating an at home blow dry (just make sure you hairspray).

Lancôme Génifique Ultimate Serum, £165: I honestly don’t use really expensive skincare and don’t think you need to, but this Lancôme serum is one of my few exceptions. Just thinking about it makes me want to go and apply it. It first piqued my interest when I learnt that it contains beta glucan, which is the same ingredient that’s in my beloved Rhode Glazing Milk. That was enough to get me to try it and from that first pipette press, I was hooked. Not only is it one of the most hydrating serums I’ve tried, but it gives the most beautiful glow and just feels so damn soothing on the skin. I have to refrain myself from over applying. They call their beta glucan complex, ‘Beta Glucan-CM’ and they say each drop contains 90 trillion of these. Which explains why it’s like my Glazing Milk on steroids.

Hair Colour with Sarah Black at Arkive by Adam Reed, price on consultation: I have been going to Adam Reed’s salon for years because I’ve always felt at home with the quirky sentimental touches Adam has everywhere (a framed gold oak leaf, a mini Grover from Sesame Street, a chandelier made from hair extensions). A feeling that is reflected in the atmosphere, which feels more like going for a catch up with friends than having your hair done. Sarah is Creative Director and after feeling like I was always playing it safe with my colour, I finally sat in her chair and told her to do what she wanted. The result was a peachy colour that has become something of a signature, with chunky high and low lights to add dimension. I’ve always thought that as a brunette, I couldn’t have ‘fun’ colours or that they wouldn’t show up on me and I love that Sarah not only disproved that, but also showed how they can be done in a sophisticated way. I wouldn’t go anywhere else to have my hair done.

Fiona Embleton, Beauty Director

Victoria Beckham Matte Bronzing Brick, £69

Bronzer is like the white T-shirt of my beauty routine. It creates a sun-flushed contour when I’m doing a full glam look and makes me feel more pulled together on those ‘no-makeup’ makeup days. I’m always seduced by the promise of a cream version but I inevitably come back to this Matte Bronzing Brick for a long-lasting, golden-hour glow. The matte powder itself is gossamer fine but also manages to be creamy so it has a handy blurring effect. Imagine your skin bathed in candlelight and you get the picture. The two-tone palette means I can use the lighter shade over the high points of my face – nose, cheekbones, around my hairline – and the deeper tone to sculpt or just add a little more warmth and definition where I need it. It’s as close to a believable faux tan as you can get. Scratch that - it’s foolproof. Bonus points go to the chic refillable packaging.

SkinCeuticals P-Tiox Serum, £135

Serums normally involve 28 days of blind belief that they’re actually doing something to nudge your collagen production up a gear. Not so with P-Tiox, which is why I really believe it’s worth the eye-watering price tag. It’s probably the first serum I’ve used where my skin looks visibly smoother within just a few days of use. I’m not saying this will change your face, but a blend of punchy peptides helps to reduce the appearance of contraction lines – a tiny adjustment that actually has a major impact, especially if you wing it up under the eyes, which is my new favourite hack. In fact, the impressive roll call of ingredients is another reason why it’s been found to help bolster the results of Botox (hence the name). P-Tiox is the serum I’ve reached for over the past six months and I’ve certainly found that it’s coaxed out my very best dewy, glazed skin.

Keren Bartov The Wand, £1,650

I’m a big believer that skincare alone isn’t transformative. Gravity’s a downer - literally - but throw in a high-tech device and it’s suddenly possible to hoick up your cheeks to where they sat in your teens. Red light is the technology du jour thanks to evidence-backed studies that applying different wavelengths of light to the skin recharges the ‘battery’ in cells. But consistency is key and that’s where I tend to fall down when it comes to those heavy, Stormtrooper-esque masks. Too. Much. Faff. Enter The Wand. True, it isn’t cheap, but it’s clinical grade, which is essentially what you’re paying for. It combines three different therapies into one easy-to-use device: infrared, red-light and radio frequency, all with the aim of boosting blood flow, cell renewal and your skin’s collagen-producing efforts. Best of all, the treatment lasts a mere seven minutes and you can simply move the wand around your face while watching TV or reading a book. I use The Wand religiously three times a week and find it turbocharges the ingredients in my skincare, has an immediate lifting effect but is also an ally when it comes to the long-term health of my skin.

Jo Malone London Sea Salt & Bergamot Cologne, £125

Anyone who has ever sat close enough to me to catch a whiff of my perfume will know that I have been a years-long fan of Jo Malone’s Wood Sage & Sea Salt Cologne, a scent that conjures up all the charm of a wind-whipped British beach, white-capped waves, the mineral tang of rock pools and salty air. The new Sea Salt & Bergamot Cologne is like it’s summery cousin and leans more into the aromas of a hot day with the unmistakably bright scent of bergamot on a bed of crisp sea salt and warm driftwood. It smells like damp, bare skin with a crust of saltwater warming in the sun. It billows in nostalgic and, above all, joyful with a touch of whimsy. I can’t get enough - and neither can my fellow commuters given the number of times I’ve been asked what perfume I’m wearing.

Shark ChillPill 3-in-1 Fan, Mist & InstaChill System, £149.99

My best discovery of the summer has been the Shark ChillPill. Cue demos on the bus, at Wimbledon and in coffee shops of how to interchange the attachments and switch up the speeds. Because this isn’t just a viral fan - it’s a really sexy high-speed fan with 10 different airflow strengths that you can dial up or down. There’s even an ultra-fine misting attachment to reset your makeup or revive hot skin. But my favourite is the cooling plate, which feels like you’re holding a sweating can of ice cold Coke to your forehead (this apparently reduces your skin’s temperature by up to 9°C*, according to the brand). Oh, and it’s compact enough to fit into your handbag and can be twisted so it sits hands-free on your desk. I honestly never thought I’d wax lyrical about a fan but given I’ve even used it to blow-dry my hair, it’s proved to be the gift that kept on giving during the hottest days.

Mollie Burdell, Beauty Editor and Broadcaster

Medik 8 Hydra8 B5 Intense Serum, £48: Medik 8 is one of my all-time favourite skincare brands, and I've always got one product (or more) on the go. Since having my daughter my skin has been so much drier—The Hydr8 B5 Intense serum is the gold standard of hyaluronic acid formulations, and works absolute wonders at instantly blessing me with a much needed hit of hydration.

Botox at the Taktouk Clinic, from £250: Now I’m in my 30s, I’ve really started to prioritise the time for in-clinic facial treatments and one of my favourite spots to visit is the Taktouk Clinic in Knightsbridge. Dr Christine Hall is one of the best in the game when it comes to maintaining my Botox in the most natural-looking way, which I top up every 3-6 months. I’ve also been struggling with hormonal acne, and senior aesthetician Nadia Aminian has created a bespoke treatment plan which involves monthly extractions with booster serums and LED light therapy. Shoutout to my skin-enhancing fairy godmothers.

Curaprox Hydrasonic Pro, £190: If you use something every day, it’s always worth spending the money. For me, an electric toothbrush is an essential piece of kit and I’ve been recommending the Curaprox Hydrasonic Pro far and wide. It makes my teeth feel squeaky clean with minimal effort required and the battery seems to last for yonks.

Joonbyrd Big Time Body Wash, £39: As much as I’m into my budget bodycare buys, sometimes a spurge is justified. We’ve just done up our bathroom and there’s nothing like cracking open a fresh bottle of something boujee to elevate the space even further. I’ve been loving the Joonbyrd Big Time Body wash that makes my skin feel and smell incredible –it’s scented with notes of creamy banana, peach and cacao.

Victoria Beckham Satin Kajal Liner in Cocoa, £33: As a beauty editor and makeup artist it would be remiss of me not to shout out a makeup favourite. I’m never seen without my trusty winged liner, which has evolved from a thick line of jet-black liquid liner in my teens to today’s soft feathered out brown kohl. Nothing works as good at the Victoria Beckham Satin Kajal Liner in Cocoa – the highly pigmented formula blends with ease right after application, then sets and becomes waterproof.

Zeynab Mohamed, Beauty Writer

Spotlight Oral Care Sonic Pro Toothbrush, £75: At the top of my list is good oral care. Obviously that starts with the basics: regular dentist appointments and hygienist visits. But it also means having a really good toothbrush. I'm obsessed with the Spotlight Oral Care Sonic Pro Toothbrush. I didn't know you could get your teeth that clean at home, and I notice a huge difference whenever I don't use it, my teeth are not as white or don’t feel as clean. Replacing the heads can get expensive but definitely worth it.

Shreddy Superwoman Supplement, £36: Supplements can be expensive, and we're constantly being sold the latest thing we apparently need. I think it's worth investing the time (and money) to work out what your body actually needs, then sticking with those instead of chasing every trending supplement. I've been using the Shreddy Superwoman supplement and the Zooki creatine, and they've become real game changers in how I feel.

Oskia Renaissance Cleansing Gel Illuminating Vitamin Melting Cleanser, £32.80: Finding products that actually work for you is worth every penny. Beauty is already expensive, and endlessly buying products that don't suit your skin only wastes more money. I'm lucky that I get sent lots of products and have access to specialists and dermatologists, but seeking good advice, rather than all the advice has been the best thing I’ve done for my skin. I feel really confident and good, knowing what works for me, and having that go to products you just know will never fail you. The Ordinary Hyaluronic Acid Serum, the Clarins Double Serum and the Oskia gel cleanser never let me down and are always worth it.

Shark SilkiPro Straight Hair Straightener + Dryer in One Tool, £199.99: Good hair tools are another worthwhile investment. I'm obsessed with my Shark tools. I have thick but fragile hair, so I have to be really careful about what I use. The last thing I want is snagging, breakage or unnecessary damage. I also love the SilkiPro Straight, which was created specifically for Type 3 and 4 hair. It works so well for hair, it leaves my hair smoother, straighter without it taking forever.

Venus Wong, Beauty Writer

Monthly Acid Facial Treatments at the Park Hyatt, £165: I travel frequently for reporting assignments, and while it’s a thrilling part of the job, it often leaves my complexion looking dull and tired. What has made a big difference lately is going for a monthly Acid Glow Facial featuring Omorovicza’s signature Acid Milk. This gentle exfoliating tonic from the luxury Hungarian brand utilises a blend of glycolic, lactic and salicylic acids to resurface and brighten the skin. The treatment concludes with a tightening massage with Cryo massage balls. The spa at the Park Hyatt London River Thames is currently the only place you can experience this facial in London. My skin always looks more “snatched” and lit-from-within, which makes the £165 investment entirely worth it.

Le Labo’s Thé Matcha 26 Eau de Parfum, £140.80

Having Chinese roots, I spend a lot of time traveling across East Asia with my family each year, and Le Labo’s Thé Matcha 26 Eau de Parfum never fails to take me straight back to Tokyo. I’ve never encountered a scent that so accurately captures the essence of matcha. The zesty opening of bitter orange and bergamot delivers an invigorating rush (much like that first caffeine hit of the day), before settling into a cosy, nutty embrace of tea and sesame that clings comfortably to the skin. I catch myself sniffing my wrists whenever I’m aching for an Asian getaway, but a vacation isn't quite on the horizon yet.

Shark CryoGlow LED Mask, £269.99

I’m usually quite low-maintenance when it comes to beauty devices, but the one gadget I’ve consistently built into my daily habit is the Shark CryoGlow LED Mask. It pairs red and blue light therapy, which can help target discolouration, redness and increase collagen production in the skin – with chilling under-eye pads, which instantly depuff and soothe under eyes.

Medik8’s Total Moisture Daily Facial Cream, £50

This has been in heavy rotation for me ever since its launch in 2024. It relies on a trio of ingredients I often look for in my skincare: prebiotic peptides to rebalance the skin’s microbiome, hyaluronic acid to draw in hydration, and ceramides to fortify the protective barrier. The featherlight formula melts instantly into my skin without a trace of heaviness, keeping my skin pillowy and hydrating all day, without ever forming that uncomfortable and sweaty sheen in the heat. I breeze through tubs of this so quickly, so the eco-friendly refill pods are an absolute godsend.

Madeleine Spencer, Beauty Editor

Hygienist appointment at London Smiling, £200: This sits at the intersection between beauty and health – but I always invest there where I can; I think you cannot possibly look good if you don’t feel good. In this case, clean and healthy teeth make me confident to talk and smile without worrying about how they appear.

Boadicea The Victorious Valiant Eau de Parfum, £950: This is so expensive that I dread telling people about it. But I do, because they ask so frequently that I’ve realised this warm, nuzzly spicy floral is pleasing to many noses beyond my own. You’ll find me wearing a spritz nearly every day, or two, if it’s a very special occasion.

Facials with Pam at Mortar and Milk, £250: Each time Pam touches my skin, it gets better. She does that rare thing of making it smoother and bouncier in the instant, but also fosters healthier, stronger skin over time. I’ve been devoted to her since she cleared up my acne around ten years ago and replaced it with glossy skin.

Margaret Dabbs Medical Pedicure, £85: Another maintenance thing here – but one I will forever bang the drum of. Think of your abject misery when having to walk or, worse, dance in a pair of uncomfortable shoes. Now reverse that. That is what medi pedis do to feet, making them not only look but feel oodles better.

Lash Lifts at I Love Lash, from £45: Teresa is an artist, discussing the angle and spray of the lash fringe, and every time I see her my ultra-straight, non-event lashes become things of beauty. In turn, that makes my eyes sparkle, framing them perfectly. It also cuts down my make-up time; it’s remarkable how much heavy lifting a halo of black lashes does.

Bethan King, Beauty Editor

Teoxane Baby Glow skin boosters at Le Petit Saint, from £800: Think of this next gen skin booster as an injectable highlighter - it’s injected at eight key points on the face where the light naturally catches, think cheekbones, temples etc, and after a few days, the glow and luminosity is better than any make up and lasts a few months.

Suquu The Liquid foundation, £75: I’d normally call someone crazy for spending this on a foundation but this J-beauty brand have nailed the most natural-looking, semi-sheer and lasting formula I’ve ever tried. It stays looking perfect all day, even in a heatwave.

Revive Renewal Elixir Oil, £250: Yes, I was skeptical about this too given the price - but it’s been formulated by a top plastic surgeon who designs skincare for post-treatment recovery and everyone in between. I apply this last thing at night over my skincare and it leaves skin plumper and dewier than anything I’ve tried.

Cloud 9 Air Shot Pro Hairdryer, £369: this powerhouse dries my hair to silky smooth in five minutes flat - the price is worth it for the time I save in the mornings.

Merchant of Venice Renaissance perfume, £288: this bougie Italian brand create the chicest scents in the most jaw dropping bottles and I feel like I’ve got my life together every time I wear a spritz of their latest creation, incense-heavy Renaissance.

If you were to peek into the calendar of the modern, city-dwelling woman, you'll start to notice a slew of familiar—or, depending on your proximity to the beauty-industrial complex—unfamiliar terms. Slotted in like routine appointments with the hygienist, there will be Botox and filler, sure, but increasingly treatments like polynucleotides, rexonage, radio-frequency microneedling, thermage... The list goes on, and is only becoming more stacked, much like our approach to aesthetics.

Earlier this year, Laura Reilly of the popular Substack Magasin sparked furore after launching a new newsletter, High Touch, in which she detailed the tweakments and longevity and wellness practices she had recently undergone. The list was staggering. "In January alone,” she wrote, “I’ve done Botox, Emface, IPL, scheduled Moxi / broadband light, seen my orthodontist, cardiologist, GP, OBGYN, ophthalmologist, dermatologist, plastic surgeon, trainer, and pilates instructor." She also injects peptides, has a six- to eight-step skincare regimen, a supplement stack of 17 pills, and uses a slew of at-home devices. While the list was roundly criticised, Reilly identified something key: “I am not alone here.”

The Rise of Treatment Stacking

In 2026, the tweakment industry has gone mainstream. Once the domain of celebrities and the ultra-wealthy, procedures like Botox and filler have become democratised and are routine in many of our quarterly regimens. Data shows that average annual consumer spending in this category has increased by 28 per cent over a two-year period; and specifically, non-surgical treatments are expanding faster than traditional surgery. This is in part due to a rising interest in "prevention" from clients under 30: roughly 1 in 5 young adults aged 18 to 25 have already tried Botox and fillers.

Poppy*, 29, tells me that she has been treatment stacking for the past two years, after trying Botox. "It was like a gateway drug. I first started to notice some fine lines and then after seeing Instagram before-and-afters of people getting Botox to lift their brows and open up their eyes, I tried that too." In the past year, she's undergone tear-trough filler, lip filler, a round of polynucleotides for undereye rejuvenation, and is considering Endolift to "snatch" her jawline and remove what she refers to as her double chin. "I didn't realise I was treatment stacking, but once you start it's hard to stop, even though it's probably the most costly thing I've done all year."

She adds that all the tweakments have set her back more than her two long-haul holidays.

“I definitely think patients are more aware of the sheer number of aesthetic treatments available than they were five or ten years ago,” comments Dr Ahmed El Muntasar, who has clinics across the country. “Previously, somebody might come in asking about Botox or filler. Now patients arrive having researched skin boosters, polynucleotides, biostimulators, lasers, radiofrequency, ultrasound and regenerative treatments, sometimes wanting several of them at once.”

Per the doctor, in certain cases and amongst the right demographic, this is actually the correct approach. “Ageing is multifactorial. We lose collagen, skin quality and fat changes, as well as muscle. Addressing different aspects of ageing can produce a much more natural result than simply putting more filler into the face. The problem comes when ‘combination treatment’ becomes ‘everything, all the time’.”

The practitioners I speak to highlight that, interestingly, more men are opting for this approach, as they tend to prefer device-based tweaks with little-to-no downtime and more natural results. Certainly, recent research shows inquiries for men rose by roughly 30 per cent in 2025.

As Poppy touches on, our preference for “more is more” has been massively influenced by social media. “It has completely changed the entry point into aesthetics," says Dr Tony Kaliya of the Neu Clinic. "People are coming in far younger, far more informed (and sometimes misinformed), and with much more specific requests than they used to have, often referencing a filter, an influencer, or a fox-eye or doll-face filler. I have seen a noticeable rise in enquiries, particularly from people in their twenties. The reasons vary: some are genuinely curious about prevention and want to start early with light-touch treatments; others are responding to comparison; constant exposure to filtered or heavily edited faces online, which resets what feels like a “normal” appearance."

Plus: “We’re constantly seeing ourselves on our phones, on video calls and in photos, notes master facialist Iris Magnolac. "You start noticing things you probably wouldn’t have thought twice about before.”

Entering the Beauty Pilgrimage Era

Then there's the growing prevalence of “beauty pilgrimages” to Seoul, where celebrities or influencers fly to the South Korean capital for a packed, often week- or two-week-long schedule of treatments, starting early in the morning and ending late at night. It’s become aspirational, agrees nurse Teresa Tan, one of the few practitioners performing these cutting-edge Korean treatments here in the UK.

“It has normalised the idea that we should be doing several procedures at once. The prices can look enticing, but people don't always factor in flights, accommodation, aftercare or what happens if a complication develops once they're back home,” she explains. The other issue, she adds, is doing everything at once without a long-term plan.

"You can't necessarily tell what helped if seven to ten different procedures have been performed in one sitting. When travelling abroad for treatment, additional considerations include language barriers, understanding the practitioner's qualifications, informed consent, and continuity of care. If a complication develops after you've returned to the UK, accessing appropriate aftercare from the original treating clinic can be much more difficult."

When Tweakments Start to Distort Our Perception

It’s no surprise, then, that facial dysmorphia is becoming a growing concern for aesthetic practitioners. I can speak for myself: I’ve spent the last few months undergoing all manner of tweakments in the name of journalism, from microneedling and polynucleotides to radiofrequency and ultrasound-based treatments. While I haven't done anything invasive, it has made me more aware of the finer intricacies of my face. It’s an easy rabbit hole to find yourself down, especially if you have a history of dysmorphia.

Too many treatments absolutely can influence dysmorphia, in both directions, comments Dr Kaliya. “It can be a symptom of an existing body dysmorphic disorder, and repeated treatment without satisfaction can also entrench it further. The pattern I watch for is someone who is never quite happy with the result, who wants just ‘a little’ bit more immediately after a treatment has settled, who compares themselves to a filtered or edited image, or who becomes distressed by asymmetries so minor that most people would never notice them. I use structured questioning around this, and if I see those signs I won’t proceed — I’ll pause treatment, and where appropriate refer to a psychologist or GP. A good practitioner should be willing to say no, even to a paying patient.”

I ask Poppy if she thinks she's developed any form of facial dysmorphia. "Maybe," she hesitates, "I'm definitely a lot more conscious of what I look like, and when I'm pleased with the results, I feel like I should do more to keep it up. Looking at all these influencers and celebrities on Instagram does create a lot of pressure. We feel like we should look like them, but we don't live their lives."

* Names have been changed

This content is for informational and educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice - always consult with a qualified healthcare professional before treatment decisions.

The Beauty Digest is my Beauty Director’s edit of what’s actually worth your attention. Each week, I’ll be sharing the new launches I’m using and loving, the viral treatments I’m putting to the test (and what I really think of the results), plus my take on the industry conversations everyone’s talking about.

3 New Launches on My Radar

The Treatment Trial: A Love Letter to the Classic Massage

In true beauty journalist fashion, access to a spa is something of a holiday prerequisite for me. There's just something about booking in for a classic full-body massage on the first day that signals the start of the holiday and switches me firmly into relaxation mode. This week, while on a family holiday at Los Jardines de Abama Suites in Tenerife, I ventured to Sandára Wellness & Spa for its deep-tissue offering. It was 60 minutes of pure, unadulterated bliss, made all the better by the breathtaking views of the Atlantic from the hydrotherapy pools afterwards. Because while I love trying the latest high-tech treatment and buzz-worthy tweakment, sometimes nothing beats a really great massage.

Beauty Buzz: Max Mara Reveals First Perfume

A Max Mara 101801 coat is a permanent fixture on my winter wardrobe wish list. So classic, so elegant, and so discreetly expensive-looking, it’s one of those pieces that instantly make your entire wardrobe look more sophisticated. And now, Max Mara has bottled that exact effect with the launch of its first-ever fragrance, Le Parfum.

Unsurprisingly, the 101801 was the starting point. Designed to be worn almost like an olfactory cashmere coat, Le Parfum wraps sandalwood and cedarwood in creamy tuberose, warm vanilla and benzoin for a soft, musky scent that sits close to the skin. Even the bottle riffs on the house icon, with camel tones, gold accents and a lacquered ‘belt’ cinching its architectural glass silhouette. Consider this the significantly more attainable way to get some 101801 into your wardrobe.

As we turn our back on yet another heatwave, I've started to equate something with them: more strands in my hair brush, and increased shedding in the shower too. Of course, the latter is something that you can expect towards the end of the summer; there is a recognised pattern of seasonal shedding, where strands tend to fall a little more. However, this extreme heat may also contribute to increased hair fall.

First, we have to understand how the hair cycle works. "At any given time, most of your hair, around 85 to 90 per cent, is in the growing phase, while the remaining 10 to 15 per cent is in a resting phase called telogen that ends with the hair being shed," explains Dr Aamna Adel, Consultant Dermatologist and founder of haircare brand, rhute. "A study of more than 800 women found that the proportion of hairs in this resting phase peaks over the summer, and because that phase lasts roughly three months, those hairs are then released a few months later, which is what leads to the shed in late summer and autumn."

This is due to several factors. It's thought to be driven by seasonal cues, like summer UV, changing daylight, and their effect on hormones like melatonin, the dermatologist notes. And of course, a few months of sun, heat, seawater, and chlorine can leave hair more fragile, so natural shedding can feel more substantial than it actually is.

How Do Heatwaves Affect Hair?

So, how do the many heatwaves we've experienced this summer factor in? Well, rather than making the hair fall from the root in the way a big physical stressor does, extreme heat can damage the hair fibre and put the scalp under strain. This adds breakage and can make the overall loss look and feel worse.

"UV degrades keratin, which is the main structural protein in hair, and that leaves the fibre weaker, drier, and more prone to breakage and split ends, while also breaking down the pigment so colour fades faster," says Dr Adel. "The scalp is skin, so it can burn and become dry, irritated, or inflamed, none of which makes for a happy environment for the follicles. Chemically treated or bleached hair is affected the most, because the cuticle is already compromised and less able to protect the inner part of the hair."

TLDR? " A summer of heatwaves tends to leave hair in poorer condition going into the natural autumn shed, which makes it more of an aggravating factor layered on top rather than the root cause."

How Much Shedding Is Normal During the Summer?

If you've noticed more shedding during this time, the expert advises not to panic. If it is seasonal, remember it's temporary and tends to settle on its own as the follicles move back into their growth phase. "You can't really switch it off, as those hairs committed to shedding months earlier, but you can make sure your scalp is in good shape for the regrowth that follows, and avoid piling other triggers on top."

Losing somewhere between 50 and 100 hairs a day is completely normal, so don't fret if you see more hair in your brush or drain—it's just part of the cycle.

"What I'd pay attention to is a real, sustained change from your own baseline, so noticeably more hair than usual over weeks and months, more scalp showing through, or a ponytail that feels distinctly thinner," Dr Adel explains. "Seasonal shedding should be a modest, temporary increase that settles. The things that suggest it's more, and worth seeing someone about, are hair coming out in patches, shedding that carries on past three or four months, hair that isn't growing back, or shedding alongside other symptoms like fatigue or changes in your periods. Those can point to something like iron deficiency or a thyroid issue."

How to Look After Your Hair in Summer, Going Forward

This is where supporting your scalp environment helps, says the derm, so use ingredients that encourage the hair to stay in its growth phase for longer. She recommends rhute's Density + Repair Scalp Serum, enriched with peptides to support the follicle and help reduce shedding.

"But, it's also important to be honest with yourself about whether something else might be contributing," she adds. "Stress, a recent illness, rapid weight loss, or a low-protein or restrictive diet can all cause shedding through the same pathway and mimic the timing of a seasonal shed."

Prepping for next year is key too, as hair shedding and scalp health are never a quick fix. When it's warm out, ensure you're protecting your hair by wearing a cap and using SPF on the scalp and lengths. Otherwise, opt for a daily serum to look after the barrier, and on the lengths, prioritise gentle hydrating shampoos and conditioner that have volume-boosting effects, as well as a bond-repair treatment. Per the derm, this can help undo some of the sun and chlorine damage, if you have it.

"I'd also look at the basics from the inside, particularly your protein intake and your iron and vitamin D levels, as these often sit behind shedding, and vitamin D in particular tends to dip as the daylight fades into autumn," she concludes. And again, if the shedding is heavy or persistent, you should see a professional. The right treatment always depends on determining the actual cause behind it all.

Marie Claire Approved Hair Products

I usually love a skin tint. I like my skin to look like real skin, with that dewy, healthy glow, so anything labelled ‘foundation’ is rarely my bag. But as I’ve got older and texture and fine lines have started to creep in, I’ve realised that opting for fuller coverage doesn’t have to mean compromising on skin that looks youthful, plump and fresh.

Any base that claims to be more skincare than make-up immediately appeals to me. I want something that keeps my skin hydrated, moisturised and comfortable while still delivering on coverage. L'Oréal's new solid foundation contains 80% skincare ingredients and promises to do exactly that, plus buildable coverage and easy, on-the-go application. I’ve been putting it to the test—and the results genuinely surprised me.

How We Test

I’ve been wearing this every day for over a week now, both at home and out and about, paying close attention to how it applies, how it wears throughout the day and, crucially, how my skin feels both immediately after application and 12 hours later.

I’ve also tried applying it with the included compact sponge (don’t even bother), a foundation brush and a beauty blender to work out which tool gives the best finish. Essentially, I’ve done the trial and error so you don’t have to—and can decide whether this foundation is genuinely worth your time and money.

First Impressions

I’ve got to be honest—the compact packaging and solid foundation format were giving me serious early ’00s flashbacks, when we (or at least I) used to slap on base with a firm ‘more is more’ mentality. On first impressions, it wasn’t exactly filling me with confidence. But oh, how wrong I was.

The product comes in a two-tier compact, with the foundation on top and a mirror and applicator tucked underneath. From the first swatch, I could immediately see where that 80% skincare claim comes in. The formula feels incredibly buttery and silky, yet surprisingly lightweight, with no noticeable scent. Any initial reservations quickly disappeared, and I found myself very keen to get it onto my face.

It comes in 12 shades, ranging from 1 Very Light to 12 Deep (I wear Very Light). Admittedly, 12 doesn’t sound like a particularly extensive shade range, but the formula is surprisingly adaptable, with each shade designed to work across several different complexions. That said, I’d definitely recommend swatching it in store first to find the best match for your skin tone.

From the first swipe, I knew I was going to like it. It blended beautifully into my skin, leaving it looking dewy, plump and hydrated, but what really impressed me was the coverage. For something that looks and feels so natural, it conceals an incredible amount.

How to Apply

Through trial and error, I’ve found that the best way to apply this for the most even, natural-looking finish is with a foundation brush. A beauty blender works too, but because the texture is more buttery than liquid, I find you need that sweeping motion of a brush to really work the product into the skin and blend it seamlessly.

A little goes a long way, too. The coverage is described simply as ‘buildable’, but I’d put it firmly in the medium-to-full category. Start with a small amount and blend it out across the face before going back in anywhere you want a little more coverage.

The Verdict

This solid foundation melts into the skin on contact, making it incredibly easy to blend. The coverage is impressive, especially in how it evens out skin tone, but what surprised me most was how lightweight and breathable it feels. I’d usually expect this level of coverage to come with a certain heaviness, dryness or greasiness, but there’s none of that here.

Instead, my skin feels hydrated, moisturised and comfortable, thanks in part to the formula’s hyaluron emollients. I was particularly impressed by how plump it made my skin look, even helping to soften the appearance of the fine lines around my eyes.

Despite that buttery texture, it never looks or feels greasy, and I think it could work well across a range of skin types. I was initially worried that, on a hot day, it might quite literally melt off my face, but its staying power is surprisingly impressive. And when it does start to wear away over the course of the day, it does so evenly rather than disappearing in patches.

I also wouldn’t recommend setting it with powder, as I found it immediately dulled that beautiful dewy finish and made the result look less smooth and natural. Instead, let the foundation melt into the skin and become one with it, then finish with a setting spray if you want a little extra longevity.

More to Try

One of the things I’m most proud of when it comes to the Marie Claire UK Skin Awards is the calibre of our judging panel. Every year, we bring together some of the most respected and knowledgeable names in the industry to rigorously test, review and rate the latest innovations in skincare.

And with innovation and research moving at an extraordinary pace, that level of expertise has never been so important. From sophisticated new formulations and emerging ingredients to groundbreaking treatments and technologies, skincare is evolving fast—and distinguishing genuine innovation from clever marketing requires people who really know their stuff.

That’s where our judges come in. From leading dermatologists and aesthetic doctors to product formulators, beauty experts and no-nonsense content creators, our panel represents an incredible breadth of knowledge and experience. Together, they put this year’s entries through their paces, scrutinising the claims, assessing the results, and ultimately deciding which products and treatments truly deserve a Marie Claire UK Skin Award.

So, with this year’s entries in and judging underway, it’s time to meet the brilliant people deciding the winners…

Dr Alia Ahmed

Dr Alia Ahmed is a Consultant Dermatologist with a specialist interest in psychodermatology, bridging skin health and psychological wellbeing. Passionate about holistic, patient-centred care, she helps individuals navigate the emotional and physical impact of skin conditions with compassion and expertise. Through her clinical practice, education, and advocacy, Dr Ahmed champions a more integrated approach to dermatology that recognises the profound relationship between mind and skin. She founded The Psychodermatologist and shares evidence-based insights with a wider audience through her platform, @the_psychodermatologist, empowering patients to feel confident in their skin and overall wellbeing.

Alice Hart-Davis

Alice Hart-Davis is a journalist with 25 years’ experience researching – and trying out - skincare and cosmetic treatments, so she knows what really works. She’s the founder of thetweakmentsguide.com, an online encyclopedia of independent information and videos about non-surgical procedures like fillers and lasers. Alice launched the site in 2019 to help people find out what cosmetic tweakments involve, which ones might work for their concerns, and to locate the best practitioners around the UK.

Alice Henshaw

Alice Henshaw, Founder and Medical Director of Harley Street Injectables, is a leading figure in the global medical aesthetics industry. Registered in the UK, New Zealand, and Australia, Alice has transformed from a cardiac nurse into a celebrated expert in advanced cosmetic procedures.

Since founding Harley Street Injectables in 2014, Alice’s injection expertise and dedication to personalised care have made her a key opinion leader in aesthetics. Her accolades include multiple awards for Best Clinic and Skin Treatments in London, and finalist nods for Best Aesthetic Nurse and Clinic in the UK.

Alice's success, marked by a diverse international clientele, stems from her commitment to delivering natural, long-lasting results through individualised care. She now extends this ethos to her latest venture, SkinCycles—a cosmeceutical skincare brand designed to support post-treatment skin rejuvenation, bringing clinic-level anti-ageing effects into the home.

Alicia Lartey

Dedicated to debunking misinformation within the booming business of skincare, Alicia educates her audience with detailed testimonials and honest reviews. Her frankness about the lack of inclusivity within the skincare space brought The Lartey Scale of Hyperpigmentation to life: an in-depth glossary into post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation on all complexions. Alicia’s philosophy of efficacy and science backed ingredients is evident through her work as Head of Education and NPD at Supernova Body. More than this, her words can be found in publications like Cosmopolitan and Refinery29 where she unpacks beauty trends and how she’s come to find her footing within the industry.

Andrew Donaldson-Wheatcroft

Andrew Wheatcroft, unapologetically unfiltered, skincare aficionado and content creator. Known for his honest reviews, quick-witted humour and no BS approach.

Caroline Barnes

Caroline Barnes is one of the UK's most established and celebrated make-up artists. Known industry-wide for her passion, skill, and professionalism, she has built a reputation for approachable beauty that has helped her attract an enviable roster of clients, including Diane Kruger, Ruth Wilson, Rebecca Ferguson, Emma Watson, and Olga Kurylenko, as well as Kylie Minogue and Kelly Rowland. Caroline takes great satisfaction in creating beautiful red-carpet glamour and pushing creative boundaries for video and photo shoots.

Editorially and for advertising campaigns, she has worked with many of the world’s most famous photographers such as Rankin, Walter Chin and Ellen Von Unwerth, creating beauty and fashion shoots for publications like Harper's Bazaar, Marie Claire & Glamour, and campaigns for clients such as H&M, Max Factor, Olay and Maybelline.
Commercially,

Caroline has a YouTube channel, Speed Beauty by Caroline Barnes, offering expert beauty advice that is receiving well-deserved recognition. She also gives her time to the beauty industry charity Look Good Feel Better, using her ‘Midas touch’ to help restore confidence and wellbeing in women with cancer.

Debbie Thomas

Debbie Thomas is a leading laser expert and founder of the D.Thomas Clinic, renowned for science-led, results-driven skin treatments. With over 26 years in the industry and 40,000+ hours of hands-on experience, she’s known for pioneering advanced protocols across all skin tones. A British Beauty Council board member and key opinion leader, Debbie works closely with top manufacturers to drive innovation, safety, and regulation in aesthetics. Her expert approach blends cutting-edge technology with deep skin knowledge, making her one of the most trusted names in advanced skincare.

Dr Derrick Phillips

Dr Derrick Phillips is a leading consultant dermatologist based in London, seeing patients at OneWelbeck and Skin55 Dermatology. After graduating from UCL Medical School in 2011, he spent over a decade in the NHS, including a role as a consultant at the world-renowned Imperial College Healthcare NHS Trust, where he combined patient care with clinical research. Recognised for his work on sustainability, he received the British Association of Dermatologists’ Green Prize in 2022. As a spokesperson for the British Skin Foundation, Dr Phillips is a go-to expert for Harper’s, British Vogue, Marie Claire, Women’s Health, and has also shared expert insights on TV and radio.

Dr Ahmed El Muntasar

Dr Ahmed El Muntasar, an award-winning GP and renowned aesthetician, is revolutionising cosmetic medicine. A graduate of St. Andrews, Manchester, and UCL, he combines rigorous medical expertise with a passion for patient-centred care. Dr Ahmed owns three clinics across London, Leeds, and Cheshire, offering advanced non-surgical treatments rooted in science and safety. Also known as The Aesthetics Doctor on social media, he has over 1 million followers and is celebrated for championing diversity and inclusivity in aesthetics. Dr Ahmed is also dedicated to raising industry education standards, with plans to launch a teaching academy to train future practitioners.

Dr Anjali Mahto

Dr Anjali Mahto is a consultant dermatologist, bestselling author, and founder of Self London, an award-winning clinic specialising in intelligent, device-led skincare. With over 20 years of experience in both medical and aesthetic dermatology, she is known for her evidence-based approach and clinical integrity. Anjali is passionate about cutting through beauty industry noise to highlight what truly works, championing products rooted in science and real-world results. Her work focuses on acne, scarring, and skin ageing, with a deep understanding of both skin biology and patient psychology. She is widely respected for her honest, informed, and discerning voice in beauty.

Dr Ash Soni

Dr. Ash Soni is a fully qualified, UK- and US-trained aesthetic doctor and founder of The Soni Clinic. Trained at institutions including Imperial College London, NewYork-Presbyterian/Weill Cornell, Johns Hopkins Hospital, and The Royal Marsden, he specialises in non-surgical aesthetics and has locations in Ascot, Berkshire, and has recently taken up residency at Surrenne Belgravia at The Emory Hotel in London.

Dr BeiBei Du-Harpur

Dr Beibei Du is a Consultant Dermatologist and Clinical Lecturer at St John’s Institute of Dermatology, King’s College London. Her clinical practice focuses on acne and hidradenitis suppurativa, while her research explores the genetics and skin biology underlying inflammatory skin disease and inflammaging. She leads clinical trials and translational research to develop more personalised treatment approaches.

Alongside her academic work, she has collaborated with the skincare industry on evidence generation and product evaluation, with a particular interest in bridging advances in skin science and consumer skincare. She is passionate about promoting evidence-based dermatology and improving patient outcomes.

Dr Christine Hall

Dr Christine Hall is a GP and aesthetic doctor at the Taktouk Clinic in Knightsbridge, and one of the UK's leading voices on Korean beauty. Half Korean, she has been talking about K-beauty since 2016, long before it reached British shelves, and travels regularly to Asia working with brands. Named by Tatler as the medic of the moment in 2024 and the doctor who brought glass skin to the UK, she trained as a pharmacist before studying medicine, giving her a rare depth on ingredients and how they really work. Alongside her clinic practice, she works in NHS Emergency Medicine.

Dr Cristina Psomadakis

Consultant dermatologist Dr Cristina Psomadakis, known as Dr Soma, specialises in medical, surgical and cosmetic dermatology and practises at Welbeck and within the NHS. She holds a Master’s in Skin Ageing and Aesthetic Medicine and is Medical Director at Klira, a bespoke prescription skincare service. She is also the creator behind @dr.somaskin and has extensive experience in skincare product development, brand consultancy and education.

Dr David Jack

As one of London’s most influential aesthetic doctors, Dr David Jack is known worldwide for his subtle and tasteful approach to non-surgical cosmetic treatments.

Over his 15-year clinical career in plastic surgery and aesthetic medicine, Dr Jack has travelled extensively and gained experience across a wide range of surgical and medical specialities to hone his skills. He undertook rigorous training in specialist posts, including burns, microsurgery, internal medicine, hand surgery, surgical dermatology, and skin cancer, during his time in the NHS. He is a member of the Royal College of Surgeons of Edinburgh.

Dr David Jack has a unique approach to aesthetic medicine, based on surgical rationality, and always opts to treat in a way appropriate to the individual’s anatomy, rather than the cookie-cutter approach so commonly seen today.

Dr Elizabeth Hawkes

Dr Elizabeth Hawkes is a leading Consultant Oculoplastic Surgeon with an international reputation in blepharoplasty and aesthetic eye rejuvenation. An award-winning surgeon she is based in London and highly specialised in the delicate periocular region. Known for her meticulous surgical technique and holistic approach she combines medical, surgical and skincare strategies to achieve natural results. With her background as an Ophthalmologist, Dr Hawkes is passionate about eye health and is a strong advocate for safety in aesthetic practice. She is a trusted voice of authority in the media and among peers.

Dr Kemi Fabusiwa

Dr Kemi Fabusiwa is a London-based doctor, skin enthusiast, and content creator making beauty make sense. She runs the skincare platform Joyful Skin and creates content that blends clinical science with cultural relevance—smart, unfiltered, and always skin-first.

Dr Marwa Ali

Dr Marwa Ali, is a distinguished aesthetic doctor based in London and the resident expert at the prestigious Wellness Clinic in Harrods. Trained at St George’s and holding a postgraduate diploma in cosmetic dermatology, she brings many years of advanced experience to her practice. Known for her nuanced, “less is more” approach, Dr Ali offers bespoke treatments including Botox, dermal fillers, HIFU, microneedling/ RF and laser therapy. She is passionate about enhancing, never altering, natural aesthetics and frequently employs tailored, multimodal strategies for facial and body rejuvenation.

A recognised leader, Dr Ali speaks at industry events across the globe, educating and shaping future-facing skin solutions. Dr Ali’s mission is to offer patients a convenient, easy way to book treatments and stay informed with her trusted skincare insights, always in a discreet and supportive environment.

Dr Maryam Zamani

Dr Maryam Zamani is the founder of the multi-award-winning MZ SKIN brand and a globally recognised expert in Oculoplastic Surgery and Facial Aesthetics, with over 20 years of clinical experience in the US and UK. A pioneer in modern skincare and an exceptional surgeon, she is known as "the eye doctor" for her unmatched expertise in eyelid surgery and skin rejuvenation. Dr Zamani combines medical precision with a deep understanding of the female aesthetic, delivering natural, elegant results. Her innovative approach bridges science and beauty, cementing her status as a true leader in aesthetics and skincare innovation worldwide.

Dr Sophie Shotter

Dr Sophie Shotter is the Founder & Medical Director of Illuminate Skin Clinic in Kent and Harley Street, London. Her passion is for helping people to age as the best version of themselves, inside and out. Through a combination of skincare, longevity measures and in clinic treatments, Dr Shotter takes her patients on this journey.

Dr Sophie has been widely recognised in the UK as one of its top injectors by the likes of Tatler, Vogue & Harper’s Bazaar, and works closely with Allergan as part of their International Faculty, as well as being a Key Opinion Leader for numerous other brands. She was proud to be awarded the Aesthetic Medical Practitioner of the Year Award at the Aesthetics Awards, 2023. Dr Shotter also launched a podcast—Age Well with Dr Sophie Shotter—in November 2023, which is already in the top 10% most listened to podcasts globally.

Dr Stefanie Williams

Multi-award-winning Dermatologist Dr Stefanie Williams is founder and Medical Director at Eudelo Dermatology & Skin Wellbeing in Central London. She is a GMC registered doctor, German qualified dermatologist, author, international speaker, and key opinion leader in the industry. With a special interest in the management of adult acne, rosacea and skin ageing, Dr Stefanie has published in-depth reports on these topics, and in 2019 she founded Delo Rx, a revolutionary anti-ageing skincare range for women with breakout-prone skin.

Dr Wassim Taktouk

Dr Wassim Taktouk is an award-winning aesthetic doctor and founder and Medical Director of Taktouk Clinic in London. A member of the British College of Aesthetic Medicine, he has a Postgraduate Diploma in Dermatology and is known for his expertise in injectables and a natural-results approach to aesthetics. He also co-founded the London Academy of Aesthetic Medicine, where he trains and mentors medical professionals in aesthetic practice.

Dr Emma Craythorne

Dr Emma Craythorne MBChB FRCP is a Consultant Dermatologist and Mohs micrographic and laser surgeon at Guy’s and St Thomas’ NHS Trust and One Welbeck. She is the founder of Klira, a digital platform delivering personalised, effective luxury skincare through bespoke epigenetic SkinSize™ analysis and medical-grade formulations. Emma is widely known as the host of The Bad Skin Clinic, aired in over 100 countries, and presenter of TLC’s Save My Skin, treating complex skin conditions. She also hosts the After Hours Skin Clinic podcast, making dermatology relatable through science-led discussion. She is a former President of the British Cosmetic Dermatology Group and a Trustee of the Cosmetic Practice Standards Authority.

Fiona Brackenbury

With a career spanning over 35 years in the Skincare industry, Fiona Brackenbury has worked passionately to become a true expert in her field and one of the authority leaders of skincare in the UK. Fiona has played a multi-faceted role in the skincare industry from treating celebrity clients to designing facials and treatments. With an encyclopedic knowledge of the skin, ingredients, and products, and working with the labs on global product launches & education her passion and heart truly lies in the skincare industry.

Madeleine Spencer

Madeleine Spencer is a journalist and broadcaster who has contributed to titles including The Times, Grazia, Glamour, InStyle, The Independent, Stylist, and The London Standard, as well as offering commentary for the BBC, Sky News, and ITV.

M

Creating new, modern approaches to skin health, Melanie Grant has distinguished herself as a passionate advocate for innovation and holistic education in aesthetic skin improvement.

Across her practices in Sydney, Melbourne, Los Angeles, New York City, and London, Melanie specialises in bespoke treatments designed to improve and enhance skin. With more than 25 years of experience working with clients across a range of demanding professions, Melanie is renowned for her deft touch and refined aesthetic, earning her a devoted following and recognition as an authority in her field.

Michaella Bolder

Michaella Bolder is known for “The Bolder Method” bespoke facial massage treatment. After 18 years of industry experience, she shares her advice and tips with her community both online and in the clinic. Catch her behind the scenes skin prepping for TV, Film and red carpet in between client clinic days.

Mina Lee

Mina Lee is a South Korean skincare expert, aesthetic practitioner and founder and creative director of MinaLee.London, her Chelsea-based facial studio. With more than 20 years’ experience, she previously worked as a laser therapist, head therapist and trainer at a leading London medical spa, and was the first UK national trainer for Biologique Recherche. She is known for combining advanced aesthetics with Korean healing practices and highly personalised, holistic treatments.

Nausheen Qureshi

Nausheen Qureshi is a biochemist and product innovator behind many of the high-profile figures and cosmetic brands worldwide. She is known for her creative formulations and designs technologies and helps manufacture cosmetic products. The beauty products that she designs and creates have won multiple awards worldwide. Her modern upgrades and expertise in product creation, innovation and technology have achieved unprecedented results in independent clinical trials.

Ola Awosika

Ola blends relatable comedy and expert skincare and beauty knowledge into his brutally honest product reviews, insider tips, and pop culture commentary. From skincare reviews to cultural talking points, he strikes the balance between education and humour, breaking down complex beauty topics in a way that’s approachable and fun.

Paige Tracey

Paige Tracey is the Consumer PR Manager at Soil Association Certification, leading on the consumer education on what organic is, how it answers to consumer’s concerns as well as spotlighting organic brands doing innovative things in the sector. Paige began her career at SA Cert in 2021 on the Organic Beauty and Wellbeing working her way up to becoming Partnerships Manager for Beauty and Textiles. She has been recognised for her strong impact to date in the world of organic, being named one of Natural Product News’s “30 under Thirty” finalists for two years running.

Ruby Hammer MBE

Ruby Hammer MBE is one of the beauty industry’s most respected and enduring voices, with over four decades of experience as a makeup artist, brand advisor, and product innovator. Renowned for her modern, inclusive approach, she combines deep technical knowledge with a discerning eye for quality and performance. Ruby’s career has spanned editorial shoots, global runways, and television, giving her a rare, 360-degree perspective on what truly works. As a judge for the Marie Claire Skincare Awards, she brings expert insight, integrity, and a passion for intelligent beauty—championing products that deliver both real results and meaningful impact.

Dr Sarah Tonks

With degrees in both medicine and dentistry, Dr. Sarah Tonks developed a deep appreciation for the delicate architecture of the face and the emotional power of aesthetic treatments. In 2013, she established TLC (The Lovely Clinic) to offer a more thoughtful, honest, and innovative alternative to the 'standard' medispa—instead, TLC focuses on treating people as whole individuals, not just fixing isolated concerns.

Dr. Tonks has performed over 45,000 procedures and built a reputation for her advanced work in regenerative injectables like JULÄINE, and Sciton laser technologies including BBL, HEROic, MOXI, and HALO.

Teresa Tarmey

Teresa Tarmey is one of the UK’s leading skin experts, with over 27 years of experience and more than 50,000 hours of hands-on skin treatments. Known for her results-driven approach, Teresa is trusted by some of the world’s most recognisable faces and industry insiders. Her treatments are celebrated for blending cutting-edge technology with deep skin knowledge, and her namesake product line reflects the same ethos: science-led formulations, real results and expert-level quality. Teresa’s approach focused on healthy skin that looks and feels its best, refined by her many years of experience treating real skin.

Dr Thivi Maruthappu

Dr Thivi Maruthappu MA PhD FRCP ANutr is a Consultant Dermatologist, Nutritionist and Researcher. As the UK’s first dual-qualified Dermatologist and Nutritionist, her pioneering expertise bridges the gap between diet and skin health.

Smouldering pillar candles, old wood, wafting holy smoke, cold veined marble, and of course, the weighty silence of devotion—ah, the olfactory images of the Catholic Church.

These sacred spaces have always held a certain allure, despite my agnostic sensibilities. Indeed, no sojourn to Europe's greatest cities, whether it be Rome, Paris or Lisbon, are complete without several daily pitstops in one of their many cathedrals, chapels, and basilicas. I come for the ornate stained glass windows, vaulted ceilings and candelabras, and stay for the serenity (and cooler air).

As a child, I couldn't stand the smell; that suffusing incense-y musk, mingled with (likely) centuries-old dust and the damp, almost fecund aroma of cold grey stone, but now, it carries a certain weight and mystery, especially when translated into home and personal scenting. It's not just me either; some of the most interesting perfume houses in the world are turning to sacred spaces for their olfactive inspiration.

Paris-based beauty brand Officine Universelle Buly continually references religious rituals through their design and products. Each of their 62 apothecary-style stores and counters is a mini marvel, replete with wood-panelled walls and antique pumps and alembics for sniffing their signature water-based scents. They also sell a number of curios, including authentic Mount Athos Incense, the actual resin used in Eastern Orthodox practices, handcrafted by the monks who reside on the Holy Mountain of northern Greece.

Their Sacre home fragrance line, in fact, pays homage to the atmosphere of historic cathedrals: dark, chilled naves illuminated by stained glass, where wisps of ceremonial smoke and heady incense drift. The scents are built around heavy notes of olibanum, also known as frankincense, rich cedarwood, green pine and sweet honey—a concoction they describe as the “scent of a coronation”. Similar notes appear in their perfumes, too. Lebanese Cedar evokes old wooden pews, while Eritrean Myrrh leans into its resinous namesake for a scent that smells subtly like the inside of an old basilica. It's surprisingly wearable.

Trudon, too, founded in Paris in 1643, famously has its Spiritus Sancti fragrance, designed to replicate the heady atmosphere of Gothic cathedrals, with notes of aldehydes, incense vapours and labdanum. Their newest scent, Carmen, updates this for the modern-day wearer, by melding labdanum, with citrus accords of bergamot, grapefruit and rhum.

Per Aamna Lone, a certified UK fragrance expert, the category is on the rise both in and beyond olfactory circles. “As the seasons are changing, the algorithm naturally begins pushing more autumnal fragrance content, and church-inspired scents, with their darker, gloomy Gothic aesthetic, fit this mood well."

When Lone thinks about the notes most evocative of the interiors of churches, aldehydes and incense are particularly prevalent. “Aldehydes are interesting because they can give a fragrance that characteristic sense of sparkle or effervescence, almost like a fizzy, luminous effect. This can translate into the cool, slightly sterile atmosphere that many people instinctively associate with churches.”

Incense, on the other hand, has a much more literal connection to the church, having been used ceremonially in both Catholic and Eastern Orthodox liturgy for centuries. “Within this category, frankincense and myrrh are perhaps the most recognisable materials. They carry not only an ecclesiastical association but also a strong Christian symbolism, particularly through their connection to the Nativity and the gifts presented by the Magi.”

Then, woody materials like palo santo and cedarwood recreate the dry, resinous, polished smell of church interiors, particularly the wooden pews and furnishings. “They add a sense of physicality to the fragrance,” she explains, “like powdery materials such as orris and violet, which are also foundational elements to this profile. Their soft, dusty quality can correlate with the sense of age, textiles, religious vestments and old interiors.”

Of course, these notes have long had a bad reputation for being heavy, dusty and difficult to wear. But increasingly, brands are finding clever ways to capture the atmosphere of cathedrals and basilicas in blends that you can actually wear daily; and, naturally, these scents work especially well when it comes to scenting the home. Ahead, my pick of the very best of the category.

For as long as I can remember, I have been obsessed with getting my lashes to curl upwards. When I was in school, I kept three eyelash curlers in my bag, as backups for when mine inevitably got confiscated because I was constantly caught curling my lashes. My natural lashes are so straight, they may as well be pointing downwards. So when I heard that UKLASH was soon to launch a Lash Lift Gel, I knew I had to try it. A lash lift in a bottle? Yes please.

But it's not just about the lift. What made this so exciting for me was that, in addition to lifting, the product treats the lashes too, with nourishing ingredients that promise to support lash health and tint them over time. A product you can use as a pre-mascara primer and on its own for a natural lash lift look? It’s exactly what my lash routine needed.

How We Test

I've been using the Lash Lift Gel for the past two weeks, testing different application techniques, varying the amount used, and trying it with various mascaras to see whether it affects how the formula holds or looks. I also used the product every time I wear mascara, and I tested it alone, at the gym, and for a full day of work and events.

Over the years of testing beauty products, I've tried most of the best mascaras out there, know exactly which eyelash curler you need depending on the lash look you want, and I've even tested a lot of eyelash primers and clear mascaras in my time as a beauty writer.

I look for three main things in any lash product. First, ease of application: any mascara or mascara-adjacent product takes a few goes to get used to the wand and how it best applies, but once I've got that down, a low-fuss product is a must. Second, how it looks: I like my lashes to look as long, lifted and curled as possible, and I won't be satisfied until I've done everything I can. And third, how long it lasts: how my mascara looks at the end of the day really matters to me. I'm usually out from 7 am until 10 pm most days, and mascara starting to drop, or worse, drying up and falling out, is my nightmare.

First Impressions

From the outside, this could look like your sleekest, chicest mascara. And on the inside? Even better. The brush is flexible, with densely packed bristles, and I was surprised that it had a sweet smell. To get a feel for the texture, I placed it on the back of my hand, and it dries down almost tacky, as you'd expect from a gel product.

It's the first product of its kind, not just for UKLASH but for the market: a lash treatment and a lash lift in one. It promises to lift lashes instantly, hold that lift from morning to night, and keep them healthy while it's at it. My expectations were high.

As someone with unusually straight lashes, my main concern when doing my makeup is curling them and keeping them up. Would it live up to my expectations? Would it hold my lashes up? I was won over the very first time I tried it. It's a subtle lift and tint, but it's there, and the subtlety is exactly what works. After application, my lashes look lifted and tinted, and I even consider skipping mascara altogether. It shocked me, as a diehard mascara wearer.

How to Apply

The product itself is super easy to apply, just like mascara. I curl my lashes first anyway, and with the Lash Lift Gel, you have to, whether you're wearing it alone or under mascara. As a pre-mascara step, I found it best to let it dry a tad before applying mascara. My technique? Apply one layer to one eye, let it dry while you apply it to the other side, then come back to do mascara.

Less is definitely more with this: just do one coat. At first I applied it like my mascara, coats and coats of it, and found it weighed my lashes down. What I learned is to treat the pre-step as a coat of mascara in itself. Once I realised that, I used much less mascara on top and had the desired result (and got through less mascara, win-win).

When using it without mascara, I'd put on a few more coats, about three, dipping the brush back in the tube each time to make sure I get enough product on. When using it under mascara, I'd dip the brush once and apply a single coat across the lashes, focusing on the ends and where I want the lift.

The Verdict

I'm thrilled with the results. The lift is incredible, and the way it holds my lashes all day means I don't think I could ever go back to applying mascara alone. It took a few goes and a bit of trial and error to figure out what worked for me, but that's the same with every new mascara: I always have to get used to a new brush and formula to get my lashes the way I like them, fanned out, super long and curled. This helped me get everything I wanted with less mascara than I usually would, but the best part was that they stayed lifted and curled. Usually by the end of the day my mascara doesn't look how it did when I left the house, but with this, when I got home my lashes were still lifted, and that, for me, is everything.

What makes the formula so special? Vitamin E and glycerin keep the lashes hydrated and conditioned. If you often experience fallout from dry mascara, or by the end of the day your lashes look visibly dry, this stops that.

An unexpected positive: the Lash Lift Gel has helped me lean into the ghost lash trend. If you'd told me six months ago that the no mascara trend would make mascara become "uncool," I'd have said I saw it coming; Paris Fashion Week beauty trends predicted it, but it's not for me. And yet, with the help of the Lash Lift Gel, my lashes look lifted and have a tint to them that makes them look really healthy. I'd never thought about the health of my eyelashes before, and I caught myself observing how healthy they looked. That little bit of tint makes them look naturally darker, longer and lifted, something I've never felt with an eyelash primer before. Would I re-purchase? Absolutely, yes.

More to Try

As someone who's been bleaching my hair for over 15 years, I know a thing or two about damage and dryness—particularly after a season spent in the sun and sea when my blonde becomes almost instantly parched. But with the right hair repair masks in my arsenal, my blonde stays looking healthy no matter what it's been exposed to.

After a particularly disastrous home-bleaching incident in my early twenties, intensive hair repair masks were the only thing to pull my ends back from the brink. Since then, I've used one at least once a week to treat hair damage, and I always pack one in my suitcase when travelling to combat the dryness that's left behind from salt, chlorine, and UV rays. Although the best conditioners can do some heavy lifting, nothing quite compares to the results of a mask after a dry summer.

From moisturising hair masks to leave-in bond repair treatments, these are the hair repair masks I swear by for strengthening, increasing shine, taming frizz, and keeping my hair healthy following the warmer months when it's most prone to damage.

How We Test

The Marie Claire UK team takes product testing seriously, with a commitment to delivering accurate, honest and genuinely helpful reviews for our readers. For this piece, I've rounded up hair masks that I have used on my hair for several months—and years in some cases. I assessed things like texture, packaging, ease of use, detangling abilities, and the all-important results after drying my hair. Only the ones that made a noticeable difference in terms of strength, softness, and shine made it into this piece.

The Best Hair Repair Masks

• Best overall: K18, £70 at Space NK
• Best for rebuilding: L'Oréal, £29.77 at Lookfantastic
• Best for toning: Virtue, £69 at Space NK
• Best for moisture: Living Proof, £36 at Lookfantastic
• Best multi-use: Hershesons, £23.99 at Amazon
• Best for volumising: Sam McKnight, £48 at Space NK
• Best for severe damage: Olaplex, £39 at Lookfantastic

Best Overall Hair Repair Mask: K18 Leave-in Molecular Repair Hair Mask

You've almost certainly heard about the K18 Leave-in Molecular Repair Hair Mask, and I can confirm it's worth all the hype it's got over the years. Yes, it's a pricey investment, but the results speak for themselves—and the ease of use alone sold me. This leave-in treatment repairs damage from chemicals, bleach, colour, and heat in just four minutes, with no need to wash it out, so you don't have a tedious wait in the shower. Skip conditioner in your hair wash routine, apply a few pumps to towel-dried hair, wait at least four minutes, then continue styling as usual. It's made a noticeable difference to the softness, bounce, strength, and colour of my hair, and it's always the product I pack on holiday for maximum results.

Best for Rebuilding: L'Oréal Professionnel Absolut Repair Molecular Strengthening Mask

If chlorine and UV rays have damaged your hair this season, you need to focus on strengthening your strands. This L'Oréal Professionnel mask is suitable for all types of damaged hair including colour-treated, lightened, and natural, and it works to rebuild the molecular structure of your hair without adding weight. It has a smooth, creamy texture that applies like conditioner and only takes a couple of minutes to work post-shampooing. Improving strength, elasticity, movement, and smoothness, it's the ultimate antidote for summer-worn hair that needs a total revamp.

Best for Moisture: Living Proof Moisture Rescue Mask

My hair is easily the knottiest it's ever been due to chlorine, and even getting a brush through it is a workout. I have been using the Living Proof Moisture Rescue Mask on repeat over the last month to get some moisture back into my bleached ends, and it's worked a treat. You only have to leave this in for five minutes in the shower, and I use that time to brush through my hair and get it thoroughly detangled. When it comes time to dry and style, my hair feels totally revitalised and glossy thanks to this mask. The Smart Barrier HairTech also makes flyaways more manageable, so it provides lasting results.

Best for toning

All blondes know the importance of a good toner, but traditional purple shampoos can sometimes be too drying for regular use—particularly when your hair has already gone through the wringer. Virtue's Colourkick mask is designed for all colour-treated hair, and it works to tone and intensely hydrate in one. Formulated with Alpha Keratin 60ku, it targets colour, heat, and sun damage to boost shine and softness. When my hair is on the brassier side or lacking oomph after sun exposure, this in-shower three minute mask is the first one I turn to for a brightening and nourishing effect.

Best for volumising

This is a true do-it-all mask that strengthens the hair, repairs split ends, and boosts volume and thickness in one. So as well as bringing dry summer hair back to health, it offers lift and makes the hair look denser too—a perfect recipe for a salon-fresh look from home. Leave on for five minutes after shampooing and style as usual out of the shower, with added softness, shine, and volume. I love how glossy and manageable this formula leaves my hair, as well as the boost it provides for heat styling to give my blow dry a more polished finish.

Best for severe damage

If you've ever dealt with damaged hair, you probably know how transformative Olaplex products can be. I swear by them for keeping my bleached hair healthy, and the leave-in products are some of my most used during summer when I want to prevent any breakage. This particular mask is applied for a few minutes after shampooing to smooth rough texture, reduce flyaways, and hydrate and soften dry and coarse hair types. It's one of the best for preventing breakage and reducing frizz, penetrating each hair strand to restore its health and leave your ends glossy and full.

Best multi-use

I'm definitely guilty of being lazy with my haircare routine during summer, and this product means I can afford to be. The Almost Everything Cream can be used for styling, conditioning, boosting shine, defining curls, and even as a leave-in mask to repair the hair. It can be used on wet or dry hair, but I like to apply it out of the shower, focusing on mid-lengths and ends, before drying to get the nourishing effects. It deeply nourishes, repairs split ends over time, deeply moisturises, controls frizz, and adds shine in one—and it also works wonders to define my natural waves. If you're traveling, this is one product you can pack for every single hair need.

The Beauty Digest is my Beauty Director’s edit of what’s actually worth your attention. Each week, I’ll be sharing the new launches I’m using and loving, the viral treatments I’m putting to the test (and what I really think of the results), plus my take on the industry conversations everyone’s talking about.

Three New Launches on My Radar

The Treatment Trial: Head Spas

Scalp care is really having its moment in the beauty spotlight, and it would be remiss of me not to trial one of the latest treatments sweeping the salon scene: the head spa. Originating in Japan, head spas combine deep-cleansing, stimulating and relaxing techniques designed to leave the scalp thoroughly cleansed and the mind suitably refreshed.

This particular treatment was at Cloud Twelve, a luxury wellness and lifestyle club in Notting Hill, and involved a 21-step ritual that began with a dermascope and follicular analysis (essentially, looking at my scalp under a microscope to pinpoint any potential issues). From there, the treatment covered everything from a detoxifying clay mask and growth-stimulating scalp massage to a neck and décolletage massage, waterfall hair rinse, LED scalp therapy and more.

While it wouldn't be my first choice of treatment (my back will always take precedence when it comes to spa massages), it was a heavenly experience that left my scalp feeling supremely clean, my hair noticeably bouncier and shinier, and my mind remarkably clear.

Beauty Buzz: No, Gel Nails Aren’t Being Banned

Everyone remain calm. Yes, the TPO ban has arrived in the UK—the ingredient was already banned in cosmetics across the EU—but that doesn't mean gel manicures are finished. Far from it. TPO is just one of many photoinitiators used to help certain gel polishes cure under UV or LED light, and brands have been busy reformulating without it.

So, what can you expect? In reality, probably very little difference at your next manicure. From 15th August, salons and retailers in Great Britain can no longer sell or supply cosmetic products containing TPO, so affected formulas should already have been replaced with TPO-free alternatives.

And will your manicure still be as good? In short, yes. Well, probably. TPO is only one of the ingredients that can be used to cure gel polish, and brands have reformulated with alternative photoinitiators designed to deliver the same glossy finish and long-lasting wear. Whether any of those alternatives will face similar scrutiny further down the line remains to be seen. But if the TPO ban has shown us anything, it's that the industry is more than capable of adapting.

As a beauty journalist, I see trends come and go. But rarely have I seen one prevail quite as unwaveringly as the bob. At one point, every new day seemed to bring a new iteration: the French bob, the boyfriend bob, the old-money bob, the Scandi bob—you get the idea. Whatever the prefix, the bob has had a near-total chokehold on hair trends for the best part of a decade.

“I think the bob became so popular because it’s one of those haircuts that gives you a really noticeable change without being completely terrifying,” says Luke Hersheson, celebrity hairstylist and CEO of Hershesons. “You can cut quite a lot of hair off and instantly feel different, but it’s still incredibly wearable.”

The pandemic only accelerated its appeal. “Everyone came out of that period wanting change,” says Hersheson. “People had spent months looking at themselves on Zoom, growing their hair out, not going to salons. There was this real appetite to do something. The bob became almost shorthand for that reset.”

No one understands that desire for control and reinvention better than me. I've had two bobs in my life, each following a major life event—a break-up, a new job and having a baby. Each time, it's been a spur-of-the-moment decision: an impulsive exercise in autonomy and, ultimately, an attempt to find my identity again.

My most recent bob came shortly after having my son. But unlike my previous bobs, I've spent the subsequent two years growing it out, resisting the temptation to cut it all off again and becoming increasingly invested in getting my hair longer and healthier. And recently, I've noticed I'm not the only one.

After years of watching the bob reign supreme, something finally seems to be shifting. Lengths are creeping ever downwards and, everywhere I look, from the red carpet to people-watching on the tube, more people have long hair. Hersheson has noticed it in the salon, too. “I’m definitely seeing more women wanting to grow their hair again,” he says. “For quite a long time, cutting your hair off felt like the modern, cool thing to do. Now I think there’s something about longer hair that suddenly feels fresher again.”

So, after almost a decade of going shorter, are we finally entering the long-hair era? And if so, why now?

Entering the Post-Bob Era

It's easy to assume we're all growing our hair because of the financial climate. A bob is notoriously high-maintenance, requiring regular trims to keep its shape, whereas growing your hair means fewer cuts and, theoretically, fewer expensive salon appointments. It's a fair assumption, but I'm not convinced.

The reason we're beginning to see the back of the bob is far more multifaceted. First, the bob has ultimately become a victim of its own success. Like any trend that reaches saturation point, its ubiquity eventually becomes the very thing that makes it feel less desirable.

“There have been so many versions of the bob that we’ve almost exhausted the language around it,” agrees Hersheson. “Every few months there’s supposedly a ‘new bob’, but ultimately it’s still a bob.”

And while he stresses that the bob isn't going anywhere—“it’s a classic haircut and always will be”—fashion inevitably moves on. “When something has dominated for that long, the thing that suddenly feels new is usually the opposite.”

At the same time, what we aspire to when it comes to our hair has changed. Scalp oils, growth serums, supplements, head spas, LED helmets—the beauty industry's attention has shifted from just styling our hair to optimising its health. The new goal isn't necessarily an elaborate cut or colour, but hair that looks intrinsically good: thick, glossy, strong and, increasingly, long.

It's a shift Anabel Kingsley, Brand President and Consultant Trichologist at Philip Kingsley, has noticed too. “I think it’s now widely understood that your best head of hair is a healthy head of hair,” she says, pointing to a growing understanding of the importance of “looking after the hair fibre, minimising heat, using protective products and supporting new growth by looking after the scalp.”

Crucially, we're also getting better at understanding how to actually retain the length we grow. Kingsley believes some people who previously struggled to grow their hair because of breakage and lifestyle factors are beginning to realise longer hair can be achievable by taking a more holistic approach. “Embracing natural hair—waves, curls and coils—has also helped,” she says. “The less you manipulate your hair with heat and straighteners, the better it is for it and the less breakage you’ll experience, which in turn translates to length retention.”

But there is something bigger happening here, too. Hersheson sees our pursuit of healthier hair as part of a much wider shift in beauty. “Beauty generally has moved away from this idea of constantly transforming yourself and more towards making what you already have look really good,” he says. “With hair, the aspiration now is increasingly: how good can my hair actually be? Can it be thicker, shinier, healthier, stronger, in better condition?”

Long Hair as a Status Symbol

The wellnessification of hair makes sense when you look at what's happening across beauty as a whole. The 2010s were defined by transformation and quick fixes; the current landscape increasingly focuses on optimisation, longevity and enhancement. In aesthetics, the trend for obvious augmentation has waned in favour of regenerative treatments and skin boosters; in skincare, prevention and long-term skin health have become the ultimate goals. Long, lustrous hair feels like the follicular extension of the same concept: less about transforming what you have and more about seeing just how good you can make it.

But there's another reason I think long hair feels particularly aspirational right now: you can't buy it overnight. It belongs to a new breed of beauty status symbol. Glass skin, immaculate natural nails, thick waist-skimming hair: on the surface, there's something conspicuously understated about all of them. But achieving them can require months, if not years, of consistent investment. The luxury isn't necessarily what appears on the surface; it's having the time, money and resources to achieve it.

My decision to get a bob took approximately three seconds and by squeezing in a last-minute salon appointment on my way home, I achieved the transformation that same day. Growing it back has taken two years—and counting. It has required patience, maintenance and, crucially, time. And even with all the growth serums, scalp treatments and supplements money can buy, there's only so much you can do to speed the process up.

And perhaps that's what makes long hair feel so aspirational right now. “Really beautiful, thick, healthy long hair is actually quite difficult to fake,” says Hersheson. “It takes time and commitment, which almost makes it feel more luxurious.”

Lottie's Hair Growth Edit

I've been on an extended break from the salon for going on two whole years now. After years of bi-weekly gel manicures and a slew of too-harsh removals, my once long and strong nails were left in tatters: brittle and peeling; they were wholly incapable of growing.

While gel manicures shouldn't harm your nails, and any nail tech worth their salt will be gentle with removal, it was sadly too late for me, and I've spent the last few years trying to repair the damage. Part of that includes getting polish manicures and making sure the technician pays special attention to my cuticles.

During a recent appointment, I was intrigued by a rather retro tool being used: a nail brush. As my manicurist put it, they're essential if you're going for the "bare nail aesthetic" or are otherwise focused on recovery and want to keep your hands looking groomed and tidy throughout. Safe to say, I was sold. I bought one for a very reasonable £4, and it's since become a staple of my home nail care routine. Ahead, everything you need to know about this underrated tool and how to use it.

What Are Nail Brushes Good For?

"Nail brushes are a super simple and cost-effective tool for keeping nails, fingertips and surrounding skin clean," explains session manicurist Ami Streets. "They help remove dirt, debris and product residue that can collect around and underneath the nails, cleaning beneath the free edge of the nail, and getting into hard-to reach areas around the cuticle and nail folds."

But beyond cleanliness, they also provide a vital role when it comes to grooming: the gentle brushing action can also provide light stimulation and exfoliation to the skin, leaving hands feeling and looking refreshed and invigorated. "It's an essential to add-in to your daily grooming habits," adds Streets.

How to Use a Nail Brush

The key is to use them gently, explains the manicurist, so no aggressive scrubbing, especially on sensitive areas like cuticles.

To use a nail brush, first start by wetting your hands and nails with walk water, apply a mild hand soap or cleanser then gently brush around and underneath each nail using light pressure back-and-forth movements. "Pay particular attention to the underside of the free edge and the skin around the nail," adds Streets. "After brushing, rinse and dry your hands thoroughly, then follow with a nourishing hand cream, oil or balm and as always finish with a cuticle oil to replenish moisture and leave hands feeling soft and smooth."

If you're looking to use a nail brush as part of your grooming routine, use it first at the cleansing stage. Then proceed with the rest of your manicure.

Marie Claire-Approved Nail Care Products

We're all familiar with the benefits that targeted shampoos, hair masks, and heat protectants can do, but not many of us are maximising our haircare routine with pre-shampoo treatments. However, they are often the one step that your hair and scalp are desperately in need of.

If you've ever felt like your hair is still lacking something even after trying countless post-wash products, it's likely that you need to think more about what you're doing before shampooing—and how you're treating your scalp as well as your ends. Whether you're dealing with oiliness, dullness, frizz, or weak hair that needs strengthening, a pre-shampoo product could be for you.

Pre-shampoo treatments are anything you add to your hair before washing, rather than after, and can include hair growth serums, hair oils, spray conditioners, or even bond builders. Wet hair is much stretchier and more prone to breakage than dry hair, so applying products pre-wash helps protect and repair your hair in its strongest state.

As someone on a hair health journey and looking to get as much length as possible, these are the pre-shampoo treatments I swear by for noticeable results.

How We Test

The Marie Claire UK team takes product testing seriously, committed to delivering accurate, honest, and genuinely helpful reviews for our readers. For this piece, I've rounded up pre-shampoo products that I have used on my hair several times and have seen results from. I assessed texture, packaging, ease of use, how it feels on the scalp, and the all-important results after shampooing.

Best Pre-Shampoo Treatments

• Best for growth: Nature Spell, £9.99 at Amazon
• Best for repair: Olaplex No.3, £30.24 at Lookfantastic
• Best for strength: Rhute, £35 at Rhute
• Best for shine: Gisou, £22 at Sephora
• Best for scalp health: Olaplex No.0.5, £41 at Lookfantastic
• Best for oil reduction: Sam McKnight, £36 at Lookfantastic
• Best overnight treatment: Hair Syrup, £14.50 at Boots
• Best for blondes: She's Thick, £30 at She's Thick

Best for Growth: Nature Spell Rosemary Oil for Hair Growth With Root Comb Applicator

Nature Spell's rosemary oil is my most used pre-shampoo treatment, and it has almost certainly made a difference to my hair growth judging by the amount of friends that have marvelled at how long my hair has become recently. I apply mine using the handy dropper bottle anywhere from 20 minutes to the night before washing my hair, and despite the oil formula, it washes out easily with regular shampoo. As well as nourishing the scalp, my hair always looks and feels much silkier after washing with much less frizz to contend with.

Best for Repair: Olaplex No.3 Plus Complete Repair Treatment

Olaplex's hero product, No. 3, is the single haircare product I have never stopped using—I apply it once a week without fail, and you can tell how well-loved my pre-launch sample bottle is. The newly reformulated bond technology repairs damaged hair in just a few minutes when applied to wet, but not yet shampooed, hair. It replenishes moisture for increased softness, smoothness, and manageability, and reduces breakage and split ends to strengthen hair over time. If you have particularly damaged hair that needs more than just a heavy-duty conditioner, this pre-shampoo treatment will make the world of difference.

Best for Strength: Rhute Triple Density Complex

Unlike many scalp oils, this Rhute formula is applied from roots to ends to target hair density, shedding, breakage, overall strength. It's also much more lightweight than traditional hair oils, so it even works for fine hair that without leaving a residue. I love that this hybrid treatment offers both scalp care and strand nourishment in one, so you don't need to turn to different products for your scalp and ends. I'm also a huge fan of the subtly sweet scent that makes me look forward to applying it a few times a week. After several uses, my hair not only appears to be shedding less (a huge plus for me), but it's also softer and shinier.

Best for Shine: Gisou Honey Gloss Collagen Drops Hair Oil

I've been using these Gisou drops for months to tame dry hair, but I recently discovered that they can be used as a pre-shampoo treatment too. This works particularly well if you have dull but fine hair that doesn't agree with overly oily formulas, as this product is much more watery in nature and easy to wash out. Apply as many drops as your hair needs to your ends and leave for at least 30 minutes before washing out, and the hair looks much glossier and feels softer too.

Best for Scalp Health: Olaplex No. 0.5 Scalp Longevity Treatment

Poor scalp health can lead to increased hair shedding, dryness, and a wealth of other issues—so a scalp treatment can make the world of difference. I've been using the Olaplex Scalp Longevity Treatment for a while and I love that it's totally non-greasy, easy to apply, and its instant soothing powers that nourish the scalp's barrier. If you have a particularly dry or flaky scalp, this is for you. Although it can be applied post-shampoo too, I find that it works best applied the night before washing so it can really sink in and get to work. It isn't heavy or oily, so it's more than comfortable to sleep in. Plus, it means that my hair and scalp feel extra clean and nourished after shampooing.

Best for Oil Reduction: Hair by Sam McKnight Pure Genius 98% Natural Scalp Restoring Oil

It may sound counterintuitive to use an oil to combat greasiness, but that's exactly what this Sam McKnight pre-wash treatment does. It helps to refresh your scalp so your hair feels cleaner, softer, and more hydrated post-shampoo. Apply to dirty hair, massage into the scalp, and leave for a minimum of ten minutes whilst it gets to work. The formula helps to lift build-up on your roots so your hair feels cleaner, but it also locks in moisture so your scalp won't produce excess oil to rehydrate after washing.

Best Overnight Treatment: Hair Syrup Pre-Wash Hair Oil Rapunzel

If you're after a heavy-duty treatment you can leave to sink in overnight, Hair Syrup gets my vote. It's designed for dull and stubborn hair that struggles to grow, saturating it with nourishing ingredients to moisturise from root to end. It does have a heavier feel due to the oil formula, but it still washes out easily with shampoo. I apply it all over my dry hair the night before washing, and it not only makes my hair much easier to manage the next day, but it makes it significantly softer and glossier too.

Best for Blondes: She's Thick Hair Growth & Repair Oil for Blondes

If you bleach your hair, you know just how brittle and dull it can get. This pre-wash treatment is designed with blondes in mind, strengthening and conditioning whilst protecting colour—and making hair feel thicker and look shinier. It has a lovely minty scent that revitalises the scalp, and it has a moisturising oily texture that isn't too heavy. It's another one that washes out easily in the shower, and it can be used from roots to ends on dry hair and left on for as long as you like.

After months spent basking in the sunshine, you may start to notice increased pigmentation and other signs of sun damage appearing on your skin come September. While it can be an unwelcome consequence of summer, it’s incredibly common—and the good news is there are plenty of ways to help repair and restore sun-damaged skin.

"Sun damage is one of the most significant threats to skin health and it impacts the skin in a range of ways," says Dr Leah Totton, a medical and cosmetic doctor and founder of Dr Leah Clinics. Many of us don't realise sun damage is happening until well after summer, which is why understanding causes, prevention, and repair is so crucial to avoid long-term problems.

From beginner-friendly retinol and salon treatments that support repair to SPF moisturisers and foundations that ward off further damage, here's what you need to know about treating sun-damaged skin.

What are the signs of sun damage?

"Common signs of sun-damaged skin include sunburn in the short term. But longer term the signs of sun damage include increased pigmentation in the form of freckles and moles, melasma age spots that can appear on exposed areas, actinic keratoses which are rough scaly patches, and broken enlarged blood vessels typically around the nose and cheeks," explains Dr Leah.

"UV radiation also breaks down collagen and elastin, which leads to a loss of skin elasticity resulting in sagging skin and fine lines. One of the most common signs of sun damage that we see people seeking to address in clinic are age spots, melasma and hyperpigmentation—all of which are extremely common towards the end of the summer."

Can sun damage be reversed?

"Sun damage occurs primarily from UV radiation which impacts the skin in two main ways," explains Dr Leah. "UVB rays damage DNA in skin cells, creating structural errors, whereas UVA rays generate oxidative damage that breaks down collagen and elastin, resulting in wrinkles and sagging skin.

"Sun damage can be partially reversed through a combination of topical products, in-clinic treatments, and consistent sun protection, however not all the damage can be fully undone." That's why keeping on top of SPF application is so crucial year-round, but particularly throughout the summer months.

What products or treatments should I use to target sun damage?

"Topical ingredients that can help to treat sun damage include retinoids, vitamin C and AHAs," says Dr Leah. "These ingredients are known for their ability to stimulate collagen production, accelerate cell renewal and fade pigmentation. However, whilst they can improve the surface appearance of sun-damaged skin, they can’t fully reverse structural changes in the dermis like an in-clinic treatment can," she notes.

If you have severe sun damage, a professional treatment may be the best solution. "The most effective way to target sun damage is through in-clinic treatments which address the changes in the dermis and trigger the skin’s natural repair process, promoting cell turnover," says Dr Leah.

"At Dr Leah Clinics our key treatment to address sun damage is a combination BBL and Moxi treatment. BBL stands for BroadBand Light, and this is an advanced form of intense pulsed light (IPL) therapy that uses broad-spectrum light to target pigment in the skin, such as melanin in brown spots and haemoglobin in red spots or blood vessels.

"Moxi uses a non-ablative fractional laser to create tiny micro-coagulation zones. This helps to prompt the body to rid itself of damaged cells and then build fresh collagen for a smoother surface. It targets the superficial layers of the skin without removing the outermost layer, with the tiny performations triggering the skin’s natural repair process. By stimulating collagen remodelling it promotes cell turnover and improves skin tone, texture, and pigmentation. It’s effective for early sun damage, fine lines, uneven tone, and pigmentation issues. The combination of Moxi and BBL is effective because they target different layers of the skin and support each other’s results."

How can I prevent further sun damage?

"The key to preventing further sun damage is protecting all exposed skin with a broad spectrum high factor SPF at all times, not just when it’s sunny," says Dr Leah. "It’s important to apply SPF more often if you’re sweating or in and out of water, and to also wear protective clothing such as sunglasses and wide-brimmed hats."

Products to help sun damaged skin

Turning 34 several weeks ago meant having a funny internal conversation about whether I could still realistically count myself in my 'early-thirties' these days. The conclusion I came to was that no, I was now officially in 'mid-thirties' territory – and while there was nothing scary about this whatsoever, it did offer me the perfect opportunity to take stock of my skincare and makeup to determine if it's still working for me at this age.

Makeup-wise, I feel as though I've sort of grown out of foundations. As you hit your thirties and beyond, it's fairly normal to switch to lighter base products that don't cling to dryness, fine lines, and the like. I've since become a skin tint girlie through and through. But sometimes, I do feel like reaching for a foundation, be it on a day when my skin needs a little extra 'help,' or before an evening event I want a little 'more' for.

This is when I discovered the magic of foundation balms, which are said to be a great option for your thirties and beyond thanks to their sheer-yet-buildable coverage and blurring properties. Pro Makeup Artist, Joy Adenuga, calls them "an excellent option for anyone concerned about dryness or fine lines, as they move with the skin rather than settling into texture." That said, they're pretty versatile, working for a range of skin types (normal, dry, combination). Oily skin types may just need to powder them down, but can still certainly enjoy them.

Foundation balms, Adenuga describes, "make for easy application and bridge the gap between skincare and foundation." She adds: "Unlike traditional liquid foundations, which tend to be water-based and available in a range of finishes from matte to dewy, balm formulas are rich in emollients, oils and waxes that melt into the skin on contact. This gives them a creamy texture and a finish that looks incredibly skin-like rather than overly perfected."

For application, Celebrity Makeup Artist Mezhgan Hussainy says starting with less is key. "You can build coverage, but it's much harder to take it away," she explains. "With a balm, I like to pick up a small amount and start in the centre of the face, where most people need the most evening out, and blend outward." For this texture, you can use fingertips, a beauty sponge or a dense brush, "depending on the formula and the finish you want."

If you're interested in trying a balm foundation, the good news is that more and more are hitting the market. From old favourites to newer gems by L'Oreal Paris and Clinique, here's how I fared when trying 5 of the best foundation balms.

How We Test

The Marie Claire UK team takes product testing seriously, committed to delivering accurate, honest, and genuinely helpful reviews for our readers. We applied and wore each of these foundation balms for extended periods and in different conditions to properly assess how they perform. We assessed each for packaging, texture, coverage, skincare benefits, shade range, longevity, and finish.

The Best Foundation Balms

• Best overall: Clinique Daily Calm | £43 at Boots
• Best lightweight: L'Oréal Paris True Match | £18.99 at Boots
• Best matte: Laura Mercier Tinted Blur Balm | £39 at Boots
• Best dewy: Merit The Minimalist | £34 at Merit
• Best coverage: Trinny London Just A Touch | £29 at Trinny London

Best Overall: Clinique Daily Calm™ Foundation Makeup Balm

Clinique's Daily Calm Foundation Makeup Balm is still fairly new to the market, but it's made a major impression already – particularly, in this case, on me. My favourite of the bunch, this hydrating, blurring balm has a gorgeous skin-like finish thanks to its sheer-yet-buildable coverage. It feels light and fresh on the skin, which is no surprise given it features a soothing botanical blend, calming magnolia, and hyaluronic acid to create the perfect makeup-meets-skincare complexion product.

Best lightweight: L'Oréal Paris True Match Hyaluron Tinted Balm Solid Foundation

The newest product to hit the stands, L'Oreal Paris' offering is an affordable way to dip your toe into foundation balms if you're still a little hesitant. This is a great lightweight formula that has a buildable level of coverage, starting super naturally. Perhaps the other biggest selling point here is its skincare-first ingredients list, which spotlights hyaluron emollients to hydrate and blur the skin, for a gorgeous flattering effect that also prioritises skin health. Best applied with a dense foundation brush, this is the perfect entry point into this category.

Best Matte: Laura Mercier Tinted Blur Balm

Laura Mercier's balm has a definite blurring effect that'll have a clear appeal to those who prefer more of a matte finish. If you're excess oil-prone, this will be a great one to try. I did find the Tinted Blur Balm to feel a little less hydrating than some of the others, meaning it clung to areas of dryness (and a few fine lines) in my skin, perhaps indicating it's better for slightly younger skin. However, this may just be my skin type; if you like a matte finish, it is still well worth a go.

Best Dewy: Merit The Minimalist Perfecting Complexion Stick

Not a 'balm' in the traditional sense, Merit's Complexion Stick is a long-time favourite of mine, and its smooth, balmy texture means I was happy to sneak it into this line-up. For those where time is of the essence come morning time, a balm in a stick like this one is arguably far more convenient; it's just so easy to swipe on and go. The Minimalist has a lovely dewy (yet natural) finish that looks velvety and smooth, and a little goes a long way. Apply it directly to the face, then buff in with a dense brush.

Best Coverage: Trinny London Just A Touch

After something with a little more coverage? Try a rich balm like Trinny London's, which is designed to be used in small amounts (it's very pigmented) and buffed out. I use this right after applying some dewy skincare, and add a little with my fingertips before blending across my face. It can also be used as a concealer when applied directly to a specific area, making it a great multitasker, too.

If you’ve ever had a lymphatic drainage facial, you’ll know the satisfyingly sculpted, contoured look you leave the treatment room with. But you don’t necessarily need an appointment—or a complicated facial massage routine—to recreate the effect at home. Enter facial cupping: an easy, affordable way to help reduce puffiness and leave your complexion looking firmer and more defined.

But what exactly is facial cupping? The practice uses small, flexible silicone cups that create gentle suction as you glide them across the skin. Used with specific movements, they can encourage lymphatic drainage and move excess fluid, temporarily reducing puffiness and making the face's natural contours appear more defined. The suction also stimulates blood flow to the skin, which can give your complexion an immediate glow boost.

The technique is surprisingly straightforward, and plenty of easy-to-follow tutorials online can help you get started. All you need is a facial cupping set and a hydrating serum or facial oil to give the cups enough slip to glide smoothly across the skin. Once you’ve mastered the movements, it takes just a few minutes.

I’ve been using my £6 pink silicone facial cupping set from Amazon for years, and it’s long been my secret weapon for a more contoured, sculpted-looking face before a night out or special occasion. Equally, if I’ve had a bad night’s sleep and wake up looking particularly puffy, a few minutes of facial cupping never fails to make a noticeable difference. So when I say I’ve put at-home facial cupping through its paces, I mean it—I’ve used it multiple times a week for several years, and it remains one of my most relied-upon DIY treatments for quick, visible results.

How to Master Facial Cupping

The technique takes a little practice to master, but there’s one important rule from the outset: never leave the cups suctioned in one place for more than a few seconds, as this can cause bruising. I learnt that lesson the hard way during my early facial-cupping experiments.

The appeal is that the results can be visible almost immediately. By encouraging lymphatic drainage and helping to move excess fluid away from the face, cupping can temporarily make cheekbones and the jawline appear more defined, reduce the look of under-eye bags and puffiness, and leave the face looking generally tighter and more sculpted.

Despite the suction, it shouldn’t hurt or feel uncomfortable—in fact, I find the process surprisingly relaxing. The small, pliable silicone cups look a little like miniature traffic cones and are nothing like the larger, often glass cups associated with professional body cupping. You may notice some temporary redness afterwards as blood flow increases, but in my experience this settles quickly.

Most facial cupping sets available online come with four cups: two larger cups for the face and two smaller ones for the more delicate eye area. In my experience, however, the smaller cups don’t make much of a noticeable difference. I tend to use the larger ones beneath my eyes and along my brow bones too, without any issues.

To create suction, gently pinch the sides of the silicone cup, place it against the skin, and release your grip so it attaches. Before you begin, apply a generous amount of a slippery serum or facial oil—this is essential to allow the cup to glide easily rather than tugging at the skin. I then move the cup upward and outward across the face before sweeping it down behind the ear and toward the base of the neck.

The Verdict

Facial cupping has become one of my go-to at-home treatments for a more sculpted-looking face, alongside cryotherapy. Once you’ve mastered the technique, it’s incredibly easy to do—and if you want to see just how much of a difference it makes, try cupping one side of your face first. Compare the two in the mirror and the reduction in puffiness and added definition can be surprisingly noticeable.

For me, it’s a firm favourite: quick, affordable and easy to incorporate into my routine. After years of using it, it’s one DIY treatment I’ll continue reaching for whenever my face needs a little extra definition.

Complete Your Facial Cupping Routine

The Beauty Digest is my Beauty Director’s edit of what’s actually worth your attention. Each week, I’ll be sharing the new launches I’m using and loving, the viral treatments I’m putting to the test (and what I really think of the results), plus my take on the industry conversations everyone’s talking about.

The New Launches I'm Loving

The Treatment Trial: Matrix RF Microneedling

I popped by The Aesthetics Doctor clinic last week to see Dr Ahmed El Muntasar for a taste of the new Matrix Radio Frequency (RF) Microneedling treatment. The device uses tiny needles to penetrate the skin at varying depths, delivering RF energy to create controlled micro-injuries that stimulate the skin’s natural production of collagen and elastin.

Where Matrix differs from other RF microneedling devices is its Depth Intelligence technology and real-time impedance monitoring. In other words, it continually assesses how the skin tissue is responding and adjusts energy delivery accordingly, allowing practitioners to treat at different depths and energy levels in a more controlled, individualised way. This can also make for a more comfortable treatment—although, yes, I definitely opted for numbing cream beforehand.

Downtime was minimal. After 30 minutes in the clinic, I headed straight back to the office, albeit a little pink in the cheeks. I did experience a breakout across my cheeks over the following few days (although that could just as easily have been hormonal), but since it cleared, my skin hasn’t looked this smooth and clear in years. And because the collagen-remodelling benefits develop over time, I’m excited to see what happens after round two.

Beauty Buzz: The Great Advent Calendar Race

It feels slightly bizarre to be writing about advent calendars in mid-August, but then the beauty industry has never been one to let reason stand in the way of a good launch. Every year, the advent calendar race seems to start earlier, with increasingly extravagant editions landing while most of us are still applying post-holiday fake tan.

At first, I rolled my eyes. Come on. It's 38 degrees outside. There's not even a whisper of winter in the air. Let us be present and enjoy the summer! But then... I started investigating. And I folded. Because when someone offers you more than £1,000 worth of luxury beauty for £200, suddenly Christmas in August starts to feel remarkably reasonable.

My only remaining qualm with beauty advent calendars is the pretence that anyone is actually using them as advent calendars. I just refuse to believe anyone a) can wait until December and b) has the self-control to just open one a day. Personally, I'd have window 25 open within the hour.

Summer may be barely over, but in the beauty world, Christmas has officially arrived. Yes, like it or loathe it, beauty advent calendar season is already upon us, with some of the biggest names and retailers revealing their 2026 offerings months ahead of the festivities.

And, as ever, there’s a lot to sift through. This year’s calendars span everything from bumper edits packed with full-sized products to more specialist perfume, K-beauty and wellness offerings, with some claiming values of well over £1,000. So, which are actually worth knowing about? Below, we’re keeping track of the best beauty advent calendars of 2026 as they’re announced, including what’s inside, how much they cost and when you can get your hands on them.

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