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

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.

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

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

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.

I don't have particularly dry skin, but I do experience patches of flakiness and my skin can easily become dehydrated, so I know how frustrating it can be when foundation clings to those dry areas, making them look even more noticeable.

This is part of the reason why I was excited to try the Do It All Sheer Tint Face Balm. Made with a 92% skincare base, it promises to hydrate, smooth and visibly firm the skin with collagen peptide, hyaluronic acid and vitamin E, while offering sheer, buildable coverage and a natural, skin-like finish. Better still, it claims to boost radiance, leave skin looking plumper and—most importantly—not settle into or exacerbate dry patches.

How We Test

I've been wearing the Do It All Sheer Tint Face Balm every day for the past week, putting it through its paces everywhere from working at home to running errands. Throughout my testing, I've been assessing how easy it is to apply, the finish it leaves behind, how well it evens out redness and dark spots, its ability to blur pores, fine lines and uneven texture, and, crucially, how well it holds up over the course of the day.

I've been a beauty editor for more than 20 years, and in that time I've tested well over 100 tinted moisturisers and skin tints. That means I have a good benchmark for what separates a genuinely great formula from one that's simply making big promises—and whether the IT Cosmetics Do It All Sheer Tint Face Balm is actually worth your money.

First Impressions

Coming in a solid balm format, I expected this tinted moisturiser to feel much richer than it does. Instead, the moment my fingertip touched the pan, it melted into a lightweight, serum-like texture that glided effortlessly over the skin. It feels virtually weightless once applied and blends in with minimal effort.

Given that the formula is made up of 92% skincare—and that 91% of participants in the brand's consumer study said their skin felt more comfortable throughout the day after application—I had high expectations when it came to hydration. Happily, it delivered. My skin felt immediately softer, more comfortable and noticeably better moisturised, without ever feeling greasy or heavy. The formula was developed in collaboration with plastic surgeons and dermatologists, and that thoughtful approach is reflected in both the texture and the ingredient lineup, which inspired confidence before I even put it to the test.

It comes in 15 versatile shades that run from Fairest to Deep, with options for Warm, Neutral, or Cool skin tones. I use shade Fairest Neutral FN110, but each of the 15 can adapt and span a spectrum of skin shades. It offers a radiant finish, and skin that still looks like skin. It’s that little bit of added confidence when bare skin just won’t do.

How to Apply

The Do It All Sheer Tint Face Balm is so easy to apply, and you can do it with either a brush, beauty blender sponge, or just your fingers. All work well, but I found that a foundation brush works best, as it can move the product across the skin without absorbing much of it. It also leaves the most natural finish on the skin.

You really don’t need much to cover your whole face. IT Cosmetics says the coverage is ‘sheer but buildable’, but I don’t think it is buildable. You can’t get more than sheer coverage with this, as it starts to look unnatural and patchy if you apply too much. It’s meant to be a light veil over the skin rather than something that offers serious coverage.

The Verdict

As I've mentioned, if you're looking for full coverage, this isn't the base for you. The Do It All Sheer Tint Face Balm is exactly what it says on the tin: a sheer-coverage complexion product that perfects rather than masks. It subtly evens out skin tone, softens the appearance of redness and pigmentation, and gives the complexion a healthy, blurred finish—but your skin still looks like your skin. If you're after lightweight, glow-enhancing coverage with genuinely impressive skincare benefits, however, I think it's well worth considering.

One thing to note is just how emollient the formula is. It leaves skin feeling deeply nourished and comfortable, which is why I think those with dry or dehydrated skin will get the most out of it. It creates the kind of hydrated, non-cakey base that doesn't cling to flaky patches—a surprisingly difficult quality to find. If you have oily skin, though, you may find it a little too rich for everyday wear.

That said, I have fairly normal skin with the first signs of ageing, and I was still hugely impressed. It stayed looking fresh throughout the day, and my skin felt noticeably softer, plumper and more comfortable from the moment I applied it. In fact, when I removed my makeup that evening, my skin still felt exceptionally soft, suggesting the skincare benefits weren't just superficial. The brand claims the formula provides up to 24 hours of hydration, and based on my experience, that's a claim I can get behind.

I also found that the added hydration helped soften the appearance of the fine lines around my eyes, giving my complexion an overall smoother, fresher look. In the brand's consumer trials, 91% of users said their fine lines appeared minimised and their skin felt firmer after use, and while I can't comment on firmness after just a week of testing, I did notice that my skin looked plumper and my fine lines appeared less noticeable. As for coverage, it took down redness, softened the look of dark spots and made my complexion appear much more even, but it never completely concealed those imperfections—which, for a product like this, is exactly the point.

The 3 main ingredients that provide the IT Cosmetics Do It All Sheer Tint Face Balm’s moisturising and plumping abilities are biosynthetic collagen peptides, hyaluronic acid and vitamin E. Its emollient benefits come from that vitamin E, while hyaluronic acid plumps the skin and minimises the appearance of fine lines. The biosynthetic collagen peptides are basically short chains of amino acids that act as cell signallers to stimulate collagen and elastin production, as well as wound healing.

I just wish this product contained SPF, as that added benefit would have greatly increased its appeal. When this product is designed to be more skincare than makeup and appeal to those with skincare needs, SPF seems like an obvious first step to me.

More to Try

All the cool girls are ditching mascara this summer. More specifically, their lashes are completely bare. Naked as the day they were born. Not so much as an eyelash curler has come near their lash follicles since we collectively started maxing out on “-maxxing” and Andy Burnham was still frolicking around Manchester.

For millennials in their mid-thirties like me, this news is catastrophic. I grew up in the era of mega-watt lip gloss and sparkly powder highlighter. We wore XXL strip lashes for every night out (hell, sometimes even during the day) and the aim was simple: thick, sky-high and voluminous. Our lashes weren’t just a step in our beauty routines; they were part of our identity.

Of course, as we grew up, so did our makeup. Dream Matte Mousse was replaced by lighter BB creams, and all-over bronzer was superseded by strategically placed cream formulas. Our lash look became more mature, too: we opted for salon treatments such as lash lifts and extensions for a more subtle, fluttery look, and we used lash serums to enhance our natural lashes, rather than coating them in four layers of mascara to achieve the desired length.

But mascara is still my desert island beauty item and I rarely leave the house without a quick coat of product. I’ve written articles about how I achieved my naturally long lashes (Revitalash Eyelash Conditioner) and I’ve reviewed dozens of mascaras in my quest for the perfect formula (L'Oreal Paris Volume Million Lashes Panorama Mascara, imo). So when I saw a plethora of A-listers sporting bare lashes recently, from Gigi Hadid at the Met Gala to Maya Jama’s latest cover shoot – and most notably, Zendaya’s gloriously ethereal look at the New York premiere of The Odyssey, created by makeup artist Ernesto Casillas – I knew I had to investigate.

The naked lash trend has been dubbed ‘ghost lashes’ by media outlets and the phrase ‘ghost lashes trend’ has been a recurring breakout term on Google for the past few weeks. TikTok users in their droves swear that going sans mascara creates an ‘off-duty model look’ and a clean, fresh aesthetic.

“The ghost lash trend is a minimalist makeup look where the idea is to make your lashes look so natural they’re almost invisible, hence the name ‘ghost lashes’,” explains makeup artist Anouska Bloom. “It’s part of the broader shift towards effortless, clean beauty, where the focus is on healthy, plump, juicy skin.”

Bloom has seen a noticeable rise in clients requesting the look recently. “Some have opted for their lashes to just be curled with super-light mascara application, whereas those who normally prefer a more glam look now just ask for a few individual lashes, rather than a full-blown cat eye. Others have requested brown mascara instead of black to look as natural as possible.”

When Did Mascara Become Uncool?

So, when did wearing mascara fall out of trend, and why? Is it part of Gen Z’s cultural rejection of beauty standards and curated perfection in the age of AI? The ‘unbothered’ and ‘undone’ aesthetic—or ‘clean girl beauty’—is noticeably more visible on our feeds, and while I’m not saying that everyone is ditching makeup altogether, there is a definite shift towards barely-there beauty, with bare lashes at the forefront. It may not be obvious when we’re wearing concealer or even a dab of subtle blush, but even one coat of mascara is usually noticeable. Is makeup becoming less about attractiveness, and more about identity and agency?

“I think there’s a growing appreciation for features looking like themselves, rather than feeling like they have to be enhanced to their maximum,” says makeup artist Emily Wood. “As a result, there’s been a shift towards makeup that feels lighter and less obviously ‘done’.”

Wood says she’s seen this cultural shift across generations; not just young people. “While Gen Z have definitely embraced softer, more understated makeup, I also think people of all ages are becoming more confident wearing less. It feels less trend-driven and more like a change in how people want makeup to feel.”

How to Wear the Ghost Lash Trend

If you’re keen to try the ghost lash trend, Bloom has some tips. “Try tight-lining your waterlines with a soft brown to add some definition – this will also bring out the colour in your eyes, making them feel a little less ‘bare’. I’d then curl the lashes for a beautiful, flirty lash. My favourite lash curler is the Shiseido one, just a few pumps on either side and you’re good to go.”

Similarly, Wood says a natural, curled lash and flushed cheeks are the way to go. “If you know me, you know a pair of eyelash curlers live in every bag I own,” she says. “I’ve been curling my lashes since I was about 12 and honestly couldn’t live without them. Once my lashes are clamped, I always ‘pulse’ the curler, which gives the best lifted results. Depending on the look, I might not use mascara at all, or I’ll apply the tiniest amount and comb through so every lash stays separated. A beautifully curled lash, without mascara, alongside blush and a defined lip is my everyday face.”

While it may be a ‘no-mascara summer’ for some, I for one won’t be giving up my emotional support mascara any time soon. If makeup is less about adhering to beauty standards and more about self-expression and agency in 2026, I’ll be sticking to the big, bold lashes I’ve always worn. Though the XXL strip lashes can stay firmly where they belong: in the sticky-floored nightclubs of the 2010s.

I've always had an affinity for Kiko Milano. As a wide-eyed beauty assistant, it was the first beauty brand to ever take me on a press trip—and it wasn’t the average press trip. I was flown to Milan (business class, naturally) for a whirlwind 48 hours of Michelin-starred meals, four-poster hotel suites, private chauffeurs and more makeup than I could fit in my suitcase.

While wonderful, it felt ever so slightly at odds with the brand's accessible price point. Here was a brand selling £10 lipsticks and £15 foundations, sashaying around with the prestige and opulence of a luxury heritage fashion house.

Since then, I've always kept a curious eye on Kiko. Across Europe, it's been a beauty institution since the 1990s, with stores on nearly every major shopping street. But in the UK, its rise has been somewhat covert. It opened one store after another, including a flagship on London’s Regent Street, the country’s most expensive retail postcode, without ever becoming the beauty industry's biggest talking point. Or any kind of talking point, for that matter. Until now.

Over the past few months, Kiko’s had a bit of a glow-up. It’s gone from being beauty insiders' favourite affordable brand to one of the industry's most talked-about success stories. Madonna's appointment as the face of the brand signalled a new era, and my TikTok feed has become awash with videos comparing its products to far more expensive luxury alternatives. Suddenly, makeup enthusiasts who had never stepped inside a Kiko store were discovering what European shoppers have known for decades. Which raises the question: why now?

Part of the answer lies in how dramatically the beauty landscape has changed. Over the past decade, the market has steadily polarised. Prestige brands have become more expensive than ever, while a new wave of affordable labels has driven prices down to previously unimaginable levels. For years, success was often built on aesthetics as much as efficacy, with brands investing heavily in viral packaging, carefully curated identities and social media appeal.

More recently, however, the pendulum seems to have started to swing. Consumers are becoming less interested in buying into a brand's image and more interested in whether a product actually performs. In other words, a product's value lies primarily in its efficacy—and this is exactly where Kiko Milano excels.

Unlike many other accessible beauty brands, Kiko has never made price its USP. Nor has it built its business around viral marketing moments or Instagram-worthy packaging. Just when beauty brands are increasingly wrapped up in wellness narratives, scientific jargon and celebrity founders, Kiko remains unapologetically focused on its formulas. Colour, texture, innovation and accessibility are still at the heart of the brand. It doesn't ask consumers to buy into an aspirational lifestyle—just its products.

And then there’s TikTok.

Beauty's favourite social platform has fundamentally reshaped how consumers discover products, with creators now able to transform a relatively under-the-radar item into a global bestseller overnight. Kiko was perfectly positioned for a viral moment. It's the right combination of being relatively under the radar and underappreciated by many younger beauty consumers, so creators feel they can "reveal" it to their audience, yet established enough to have credibility and global availability.

One of its biggest recent moments came courtesy of creator Nina Pool, whose video comparing Kiko's lip liners to Charlotte Tilbury's amassed millions of views. She suggested the products were manufactured in the same factory—a claim that sparked widespread discussion online. While the reality of cosmetics manufacturing is considerably more nuanced than sharing a production facility, the conversation introduced millions of viewers to a brand they may never have considered before.

Crucially, Kiko had the infrastructure to capitalise on that attention. Unlike many brands that go viral on the back of a single hero product, Kiko's appeal extends across almost every makeup category. Once consumers discover one standout formula, they're likely to stumble upon an entire catalogue of consistently impressive products.

Looking back, that extravagant trip to Milan suddenly makes much more sense. Even then, Kiko Milano behaved like a global powerhouse. The rest of the world just hadn't realised it yet.

Our brows have been through it all. In the early 00's, many of us fell victim to the over-plucking craze, à la Pamela Anderson. If you were lucky enough to have yours grow back, you likely dabbled in the full, bushy brow look Cara Delevingne pioneered years later. Next, they were laminated and fluffed up beyond recognition, and now? They're going low-contrast.

What are low contrast brows?

Low contrast brows have been popularised by celebrity make-up artist of the moment, Nina Park, who uses the look to soften and accentuate the facial features she's working with. Instead of the brows being the focal point, they harmonise with everything else including your eye or lip, or your hair colour.

They're a world-away from the bleached brow trend that was all the craze a few years ago. "They're a softer evolution," says Hollie Parkes, renowned brow artist. "Rather than removing all of the pigment, the brows are lightened by just a few shades to create a more diffused, effortless finish."

They're surprisingly versatile, too. "It's particularly beautiful on anyone who feels their brows dominate their features, as softening the colour allows the eyes, skin and bone structure to take centre stage," notes Parkes. "They can also be lovely for blondes wanting a softer grow-out, brunettes looking to brighten their complexion, or anyone wanting to experiment with the bleached brow trend without committing to such a dramatic change."

The key here is subtlety. The brow artist rarely recommends taking the brows platinum, and instead prefers to lift them just a few shades, which is enough to completely change the balance of the face.

What's the process like?

After a consultation with Parkes, I was ready to take the plunge, and as someone with incredibly dark brows (darker than my actual hair), I was a little nervous. I had no reason to be worried, however, as Parkes reassured me: low contrast brows should not be dramatic; you're only going a few shades lighter than their natural tone.

First, she began by protecting the skin around the brows with a barrier cream before applying the lightener through the hairs.

"The difference with low-contrast brows is timing," she explains. "We’re not trying to fully bleach the brows, we’re simply softening the colour, so the product is checked regularly and removed much sooner. The aim is to lift the depth of the hair, not erase it. It’s a very controlled process and should always be tailored to the individual’s natural brow colour and desired finish."

In my case, because I have very dark hair, it took a full 10 minutes for the bleach to finish doing its magic, and lighten my brows by three whole (but subtle) shades. After that, Parkes ran a toner through them to ensure they didn't take on too much of a warm-tone.

The results

I was thrilled with my results. They're natural enough not to garner raised eyebrows (pun unintended) from my friends and family, but noticeable enough to make a difference. I find that my features pop more, and they just feel a bit more casual than the super strong, dark look I had before.

It's also important to practice proper after-care. As Parkes explains, lightening treatments can leave the hair feeling drier, so nourishing them afterwards with conditioning treatments or a brow serum helps keep brows healthy, glossy and soft.

Can you achieve low-contrast brows at home?

Yes, says the brow expert, but she encourages proceeding with caution. "Brows lighten very quickly, so it’s important to work gradually rather than trying to achieve the final result in one go. If you’re unsure whether you’ll like the look, I’d actually recommend trying a lighter-toned brow mascara first. It’s a great way to test the effect before reaching for the bleach."

Summer beauty has its hallmarks: glowy skin, flushed cheeks, and, of course, a bronzed complexion that tells the story of vacations and long, balmy days days spent outside. Of course, if you're applying as much SPF as you should (and you really should be), this often means mimicking a tan with the help of some bronzing products.

Well, that was until makeup artist and fashion week mainstay Fara Homidi told us that we should be "blonzing" instead. While the concept has been around for quite some time, the category felt a little outdated until Homidi stepped in.

The term refers to a product that performs like a blush but acts like a bronzer, and as the MUA explains, it's the ultimate step in a sun-chasing make-up look, minus the damage. "Using this product really completes my night-bronzed fantasy. It mimics how your skin looks in the evening after a full day spent out in the sun," she tells Marie Claire UK.

Of course, you could just as easily double up on your own bronzer and blush, but dedicated blonzers take the guesswork out of picking the right combination of colours and undertones for your skin. Homidi's blonzers, in particular, are formulated to suit all skin tones, from fair to deep.

How to Choose Your Shade of Blonzer

Picking the right blonzer depends on how dramatic a look you want, but the easiest way too choose is by bearing in mind the depth and pigment of the product at hand.

"Going for a darker blonzer shade, when you have a fair complexion, will give a beautiful berry flush, like Jennifer Connelly. Or a beige-pink, like my Nue, on a medium complexion will give more of a 'sun-kissed' Bella Hadid look," notes the MUA, adding that every skin tone can wear any of the shades—it just depends on how much of a 'sun-kissed' or 'sunburnt' look you want.

How to Apply Blonzer

Homidi explains that you can still use bronzer while blonzing—especially as most of the latter products have some shimmer in them. "My technique is to apply my Bronzer first in the areas the sun naturally touches: the forehead, outer perimeters of the face, and chin. Then apply the blonzer mainly on the inner parts of the face; high on your cheeks and nose (areas where you might have a slight sunburn) and finish with a light tap onto the forehead and chin to connect the pinkish flush to the Bronzer, so you can’t see where one begins and one ends.

And then, because blonzers tend to be very pigmented, it's important to prime the brush—a technique long beloved by MUAs. "Dip the brush into the product and swirl it in the palm of your hand to disperse it evenly into the bristles before it touches your complexion," advises Homidi. "When you apply the Blonzer after priming the brush, it allows you to slowly build in layers and gives you a soft focus finish that looks more lit-from-within."

More Blonzers to Try Now

Over the past few years, tubing mascara has had a real revival. Beloved for its longevity, lengthening properties and easy removal (without any scrubbing!), these formulas are more popular than ever. There’s something super appealing about a mascara that stays put throughout the day without running or streaking, but that easily removes with water and light massage before bed. Brands including Merit, Revitalash and Maybelline have all launched new versions this year alone, and the trend shows no sign of slowing down.

Except now, it’s evolved. Given the explosive popularity of tubing mascaras, it’s no surprise that one brand—Tarte—has applied tubing technology to another eye product to create a new cult hero. The brand’s Tartelette Tubing Liquid Eyeliner follows in its sister mascara’s footsteps and promises to deliver a sharper, cleaner liquid line that stays put but also easily removes. So, how does this actually work, given the idea of a tubing mascara is that it contains water-resistant polymers that wrap around each individual lash?

I asked makeup artists for their thoughts on tubing liquid liners, and how, from their perspective, they see them working. Using Tarte’s formulation as a reference, Mezhgan Hussainy, Celebrity Makeup Artist & Co-Founder of Product Society, explained: “Unlike traditional eyeliners that rely primarily on waxes and pigments to adhere to the skin, tubing technology creates a flexible film that wraps around the surface and is designed to resist smudging, transferring, humidity, and oils. That's especially important around the eye area, where movement, tears, and natural oils can quickly break down makeup.”

Like tubing mascaras, celebrity makeup artist Joy Adenuga says the product is “water-resistant throughout the day but releases cleanly with warm water and gentle pressure without rubbing or harsh removers.” It’s a unique, fresh approach to eyeliner, and one that makeup artists are generally pretty excited to try. “As a celebrity makeup artist, I'm always looking for products that deliver longevity without sacrificing comfort, and tubing liners have the potential to do just that,” notes Hussainy.

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 review, I applied Tarte's Tubing Eyeliner as part of my usual morning makeup routine and wore it throughout the day—including during an exercise class—without touching it up.

I assessed the ease of application, the precision of the applicator, pigment payoff and overall longevity, paying particular attention to whether the formula smudged, flaked or transferred. When it came to removal, I evaluated how easily it came off and whether it left behind any residue. Here are my findings...

First Impressions

I was so excited to try Tarte’s new formula because liquid eyeliner is a part of my regular makeup routine; I genuinely feel naked without it, so I am always looking for new favourites.

It’s worth noting, however, says Adenuga, that these formulas tend to be matte, “so if you're someone who layers or likes a smudgey liner, it will not work as well as a standard liquid or pencil formula.”

“I find this an interesting innovation and think it could benefit a lot of people, particularly those who struggle with smudging,” notes Adenuga. “It feels like a logical evolution from tubing mascaras and makes it useful for oily lids, sensitive eyes, and situations where touch-ups aren't always possible.” She adds that this could be brilliant for those who wear contact lenses, and for ‘frequent face-touchers,’ too.

There’s also potential for tubing liners to be a hit for mature skin. “What I'm most interested in seeing is how these formulas perform on mature eyelids with texture or laxity, since application and wear can be very different than on smoother skin,” comments Hussainy. “If they offer the same smudge-proof benefits we've come to expect from tubing mascaras while still gliding on effortlessly, I think they'll fill a real gap in the market.”

How to Apply

The product applies really well and creating shapes such as wings feels easy. I will say that I really understood what Adenuga meant when she noted how matte these formulas are likely to be; the liner was noticeably less glossy and wet, unlike many ‘regular’ liquid eyeliners I’m used to using. I even wore it during a hot pilates class and there was zero budging.

The Verdict

I’m also a serial face toucher, and so using a tubing design like this is definitely helpful. However, I’d be interested to see how long the product itself lasts and whether there’s a quicker dry-out rate, meaning less time between repurchasing.

Removal was very easy, which is a big thing for me. Sometimes at night I’m so lazy I end up leaving mascara and eyeliner excess on my lids that smudges onto my pillow overnight, but this melted off with ease with just water (see pics above, where I removed the ‘wing’ with just water and my finger). I can see why, therefore, this would be a clear winner for those with sensitive eyes.

All in all, I was pretty impressed with the product and think Tarte has tapped into something here that’s bound to become a trend, with more brands giving these a go.

Despite the sunny weather we’ve been experiencing, my hunt for a post-holiday glow continues. As a beauty editor, I live by the belief that it’s my job to try every bronzer on the market, from powders to creams. But despite all that rigorous testing, only a handful of products have made the cut—it’s rare to find a powder that blends seamlessly, and I’ve found that many cream formulas can end up looking muddy on my complexion.

Enter the water bronzer. This new category has proved to be the solution to all my bronzer-related woes. They’re exactly as they sound: incredibly lightweight and effortlessly blendable, offering a wash of colour with enough pigment to create a believable bronzed look. Despite being a relatively new concept in the beauty world, there are already several different options on the market. First up is the one that got me hooked in the first place: Victoria Beckham Beauty Colour Wash.

This long-wearing, watercolour-inspired formula has a slow-setting stain, giving you enough time to blend the watery texture with your fingers or a brush for a diffused flush that lasts all day. And it feels like water because, in part, it is: the formula is made with seawater sourced from the rocky cliffs of northern France for mineral-rich hydration. It comes with a dropper for precise application, and what I love most is how seamlessly it melts into the skin. There are no harsh lines, just a fresh bronzy glow that looks completely natural, as though it's come from within. This has true, I-just-stepped-off-a-plane energy.

But that's not all… There are a handful of other water bronzers on the market right now. Read on to see how they compare.

In the midst of these heatwaves, I want my skin to be as protected from UV rays as possible. That's why I love a multi-tasking foundation with SPF that can provide an extra barrier when I'll be spending several hours in the sun.

However, it's important to understand that SPF in foundation may not always be as effective as a regular SPF. That's primarily because we don't tend to apply nearly as thick a layer of foundation as we do sunscreen, meaning your skin won't be quite as protected. That's why I like to apply a lightweight SPF or SPF for under makeup underneath my foundation, so I can be sure my skin is fully prepped for the weather.

But when it comes to the winter months and the UV index is much lower, I often opt for one of these formulas alone for their 2-in-1 appeal. Each one of these base products not only layers well with my daily skincare, but sits comfortably in sweaty weather. From water-resistant finishes you can swim in to mineral options that offer instant protection, I swear by these formulas for coverage and boosted protection.

Best foundations with SPF: Quick shopping links

• Best everyday: £13.60 at Lookfantastic (save 20%)
• Best full coverage: £47 at Cult Beauty
• Best water-resistant: £15.15 at Amazon (save 49%)
• Best mineral: £34 at Merit
• Most hydrating: £39 at Lookfantastic
• Best powder: £25.55 at Lookfantastic (save 30%)
• Best luxury: £58 at Sephora

Best foundations with SPF, tried & tested

I will never stop raving about the Beauty Of Joseon Daily Tinted Fluid. Despite being tinted and offering the right amount of coverage to combat redness and uneven skin tone, it's actually a sunscreen first and a foundation second—meaning it really will protect the skin. It has a very watery consistency that blends like a dream, and it gives a hydrating boost that offers radiance too. I have a few acne scars to contend with, and it covers them beautifully and doesn't melt away in the heat. For me, it's the ideal everyday formula that feels weightless but really does even the skin and give a healthy, natural glow.

If you're on the hunt for a full coverage foundation with a high SPF, I've yet to find a formula better than RMS. It covers virtually all of my blemishes and discolouration, providing a blurring effect across the skin—with the addition of SPF 50. A little of this goes a long way, so it's one I like to layer with a regular sunscreen. Despite its high coverage, it doesn't feel thick or uncomfortable on the skin, instead acting more like a thicker tinted moisturiser. Containing a blend of niacinamide, marigold flower extract, jojoba seed oil and ashwagandha, it also smooths the skin, controls excess oils, and promotes radiance. A true all-rounder for the summer months.

I'm yet to encounter a base product more waterproof than this. Whether you're jumping in and out of the pool or need something to contend with sweat, Shiseido's Sports BB won't budge. Despite being lightweight, it offers impressive coverage that eradicates my need for concealer, and it's easy to blend with a brush or just with your hands. It has a fairly matte finish, but it also provides some radiance that keeps the skin fresh and healthy. With high SPF 50 and a quick-drying finish, it's my favourite to take on holiday when I want one base product that can do it all.

Mineral sunscreens are some of the best at protecting the skin because they get to work instantly—no sinking in time required. Merit's The Uniform is one of the very best mineral formulas that offers foundation-like coverage too. Although it's billed as a sheer coverage product, I find that it does a brilliant job at covering redness and uneven skin tone, even when I'm having a few breakouts. It's another base product that feels comfortable and light on the skin thanks to how easily it blends, and it has a gorgeous skin-like finish that is neither too matte nor too shiny. Plus, it's non-comedogenic and oil-free, making it suitable for acne-prone skin too.

A skincare-makeup hybrid, Laura Mercier's tinted moisturiser with SPF 30 is one of my most worn base products of all time. Although it promises sheer-light coverage, it's another one that works brilliantly at evening skin tone and masking darker spots—and the formula is buildable, so you can get more coverage if you need it. But my favourite thing about it is how hydrating it is, leaving the skin perfectly dewy and luminous. It's completely weightless, but works to soothe the skin which is a welcome treat in hot weather. It never clings to or accentuates any drier patches, and it stays put throughout the day.

Powder foundations seem to have fallen out of favour in recent years, but I'm here to tell you that they should not be dismissed. I've been using this bareMinerals formula since I was a teenager, and I'm always pleasantly surprised by the coverage and finish. You might expect it to give a dull, matte look, but it's extremely radiant and blurring with a skin-like appearance. Most unexpectedly, it has incredible coverage that conceals even angry red blemishes—perhaps better than some liquid formulas. It works wonders for oily skin, but the breathable formula means it suits normal and combination skin too. It's a mineral SPF 15, so I recommend layering it with a higher SPF in the summer for optimum protection.

I'm yet to try an Hourglass product that I don't get along with, and this is one of the best foundations with SPF if you want radiance, coverage, and protection. It has a slightly tackier formula than other liquid foundations straight out of the tube, but it blends like butter and gives medium coverage that doesn't crease or transfer—essential in hot weather. It also benefits the skin as you wear it; as well as SPF 30, it uses Advanced Hydra-Smoothing Technology (a blend of hyaluronic microspheres) to lock in moisture while visibly improving skin texture. A lighter layer is ideal for daytime wear, but I also love it for building coverage for full glam occasions. The result is a truly flawless, glowy finish with zero cakiness.

We might be moving away from the "clean girl" aesthetic, but it will forever be my go-to look—and naturally, I've always loved Refy for it. The brand has built its name on minimalism and healthy, natural-looking skin, and its new Water Blush is the latest proof of that ethos: a lighter, skin-like flush of buildable colour, inspired by K-beauty's cushion compacts and packed with skin-loving ingredients. I was instantly sold on the concept.

The Hype

These aren't Refy's first foray into blush—they launched Cream Blush previously, and the difference is telling. Cream Blush is buttery and radiant; Water Blush is thinner, more like watercolour paint, delivering a fresher, dewier, more natural finish. It's the formulation I'd call genuinely universal—it suits pretty much every skin type and looks the most like real, flushed skin, whereas Cream Blush isn't necessarily one for oily skin types.

What's also special about the formulation is the skincare credentials baked in—it's designed to refresh, hydrate and fortify the skin as you wear it. In an independent study, 94% of users said their skin felt instantly hydrated after use. Green tea water brings the cooling, refreshing hit of hydration, while ceramides lock in moisture and strengthen the skin barrier, keeping the blush looking fresh all day long.

The Application

REFY recommend that you use their Duo 2.0 Brush to apply this, or your fingers. I have, of course, tried it multiple different ways, including with a beauty blender sponge, and I can confirm that using the REFY Duo 2.0 Brush does make the blushes look their best and gives the most diffused finish. It’s also the easiest way to apply them. Having the two ends means that you can apply the colour with the angled end, then use the larger, fluffier end to spread it out and blend (without accidentally adding more colour). Very little blending is required with these, and they almost fuse with the skin to look seamless.

The Verdict

I can't fault the formulation. It's a proper skincare-makeup hybrid (all the best products are), and the cushion delivery means that watery texture gets dispensed and applied in a controlled way, rather than ending up everywhere at once. The result is a flattering, soft-focus finish with just the right amount of dew.

That's backed up by the data: in an independent study, 94% of users said their skin looked dewier and fresher after use. Mine certainly did. They're also brilliantly buildable, so you can layer on as much as you like without tipping into overdone territory.

As someone who works out daily, I appreciate how breathable these are—I've exercised with just this and a concealer on, and my complexion looks brighter and more even without any worry about clogged pores. They're so lightweight and natural-looking, yet surprisingly long-lasting—you can wear these all day, and when they do fade, they fade evenly.

Finding your perfect mascara is a minefield. Everyone's lashes are different, everyone wants something different, and what works for one person is irrelevant to another. But I've tried enough of them to know a gem when I see it—and with thoroughly average lashes, I'd argue I'm a reliable test case.

Merit has a habit of launching things that actually deliver, so when Clean Volume landed on my desk, I was already half-convinced. It's a tubing mascara, which is my preferred formulation, and if you haven't tried one yet, I'm not sure what you're waiting for. They don't smudge, they don't budge, and they slide off with warm water at the end of the day. The only mascaras I'll actually wear in real life are tubing ones—panda eyes simply aren't a risk I'm willing to take.

The Hype

There was a lot of buzz around this launch in beauty circles, and it wasn't hard to see why. The clinical stats were impressive—100% of participants showed increased volume, length and lift, while 96% agreed it volumised without clumping—and the formula sounded genuinely innovative. A Japanese-made tubing mascara that promises precise, buildable volume without any heaviness or smudging is, on paper, a difficult problem to solve. Add in a first-of-its-kind petite precision brush designed to lift and separate each lash individually, a 16-hour wear claim, and easy warm-water removal, and the excitement starts to make a lot of sense.

The application

The fact that this is a tubing mascara doesn't change how you apply it. The difference is that tubing mascaras wrap your lashes in a film-like tube, rather than just coat them in colour that can run and smudge. When it comes to removal, the tubes just glide off without any rubbing required.

So, as normal, you comb the wand through your lashes from root to tip. It’s a buildable mascara, as long as you keep combing it through while they’re still wet. Then all you have to do is wait for the film tubes to form around your lashes as they dry.

The Verdict

Merit is all about minimal, clean-looking, uncomplicated beauty, and this is reflected in the new Clean Volume Mascara. You are not going to get a false lash look with this. It’s for people who want increased length, volume and lift in a natural looking, but still defined, way. This mascara focusses on defining each lash individually with a precision wand, rather than just packing on product. It gives me exactly the look I want – natural lashes that look better all-round, with no clumping in sight.

When you compare one eye with this mascara to one without, you can clearly see how it makes my lashes more impactful, defines each lash, and visibly boosts length, volume, and lift. But the key fact is—they still look like my lashes, i.e., they look light and not like I am wearing much mascara.

I can wear this mascara from breakfast to bed at night, with no signs of flaking or smudging. Even in the sweaty hell of a spin class, I’ll only see a few flecks under my eyes when I leave—the little tubes that can be just swiped away in one motion.

I have very sensitive eyes, and I love how this mascara is effortless and gentle to remove too, without any rubbing to the eye area. It’s a mascara that I can rely on completely, to stay in place and look great all day long, taking seconds to remove at bedtime. You need this mascara in your life. You won’t be disappointed.

I'm notoriously disloyal to my primers. I'll use one every single time I do my makeup for a month, then forget the category ever existed for the next three, while I obsess over a new discovery. In any case, I've never really viewed them as an essential, mostly because I've been lucky enough to have pretty unproblematic skin.

However, over the last year, I’ve noticed some pore widening that can come with ageing, and those first lines creeping in around my eyes. I can cope with the lines, but the appearance of my pores is making me dread a close-up. I always assumed that because pore size is largely genetically determined, there was not much I could do about them. That was, until I discovered this, quite frankly, magic primer, which made me rethink my entire attitude to the primer category as a whole.

Spotlight on Tirtir Flawless Pore Prep Primer

You may have come across Tirtir through their viral Mask Fit Red Cushion foundation, which blew up on social media a couple of years ago. It’s a Korean beauty brand (hence the product excellence), and while they have a few other primers, this one's primary function is to blur pores and create a perfect canvas for makeup. I quickly discovered, to my delight, that it not only addressed my widening pores and helped my makeup sit better, but also did much, much more.

It literally instantly eradicates the appearance of enlarged pores, without that horrible silicone texture that makes my skin crawl. Instead, it feels lightweight and cooling on the skin. It contains a cooling herbal complex to minimise the appearance of pores by lowering skin temperature and making skin feel instantly refreshed. Its unique Pore Defence Complex helps to balance excess oil and mattify the skin, and it uses a botanical complex to soothe and calm the skin. This makes it a great choice for anyone with blemish-prone, oily, or normal skin who wants a more perfected look.

And the best bit: the effects last all day.

How to apply the Tirtir Flawless Pore Prep Primer

You could apply this with your fingers, but I like to press it on and blend with a dry beauty blender sponge, as you would do with a foundation. You apply it after your chosen SPF, and before any foundations or concealers.

It feels so good on the skin—cooling and refreshing, and just like a moisturiser—so there’s a temptation to apply more than you need. Just a couple of pumps will do just fine.

A beauty editor’s honest review

I don’t use the word ‘magic’ lightly, but there's no other way I can aptly describe the results. I cannot believe how easily it made my pores disappear, all while feeling just like a light cream.

I don't know why I was quite so surprised—the formula has, in fact, been clinically tested for pore reduction and promises a 69.11% reduction in pore size immediately after use, which really is quite a staggering result. Plus, 50.73% of this effect is maintained after 24 hours, so you could apply it in the morning before work, and it will still be doing its thing (albeit less so) when you come to top up your makeup for dinner and drinks (as I can attest).

When I’m wearing this primer, I am so happy with how my pores look (i.e., basically non-existent). But above that, I love how it instantly mattifies the skin in a soft, hydrated way that makes the skin look uniform across the board while still allowing your natural luminosity to come through in a diffused way. My skin isn’t flat-looking; it’s just even, and not shiny or glowy. I also feel that the way it lowers the temperature of your skin (by 4.76 Degrees Celsius) also has a firming effect on the skin, or at least it looks like it does.

I've been so taken with this primer that I've already bought a backup in case I unexpectedly run out or leave it behind on my summer travels. I can't imagine going a day without it.

I hate to break it to you, but most Beauty Editors are not make-up artists. While we're often the first to get out hands on buzzy new launches, achieving professional-looking make-up on the daily can be just as difficult for us as it is for anyone else. That's why MUAs are always on our speed dial—they spend day in-day out honing their craft.

One thing they always have in their arsenal is micro-precision beauty products. By that, I mean teeny tiny tools that allow them to place product exactly where they want it. It's the complete opposite of how I've approached make-up. I've always gravitated towards big, multi-tasking products and broad washes of blush, bronzer and eyeshadow; I rarely even reach for a brush. But while there's nothing wrong with a less-is-more approach, celebrity MUA Aimee Twist tells me that these micro products can make all the difference.

"As a make-up artist, I prefer precision products because they allow me to create a more polished finish," she tells me. "Whether that's spot concealing, defining the lash line, sharpening a lip shape or perfecting eyeliner, they help me apply make-up exactly where it's needed. Plus, they're great for refining details, correcting mistakes and working in areas that need extra control."

When I applied this philosophy to my own face, I was genuinely surprised by the results; everything looked cleaner and all-round better. Instead of applying a daub of concealer to a spot, I picked up Lisa Eldridge's Pinpoint Concealer Micro Correcting Pencil, and it lasted far better because I hadn't caked on the product as I'm wont to do. I took the same approach with my blush and eyeliner, and it looked much more intentional; everything was exactly where I wanted it to be. And because the tools I was working with were so small, I didn't make any mistakes either.

Ahead, Marie Claire UK's expert-approved roundup of the best micro-precision beauty products for your best make-up day yet.

I wouldn’t call my lips an insecurity, but they are both chronically dehydrated and pretty pale. I can’t go more than a couple of hours without applying lip balm, but my desire to always have a rosy lipstick or lip liner on has made this a challenge when it comes to my makeup routine. After discovering lip blush, a semi-permanent lip tattoo that provides long-lasting colour, I was convinced that it could combat all my woes. However, I was still left wondering whether it would actually make a noticeable difference, or if I could brave the tattoo process. I’m now two months healed from my final treatment with Karen Betts Clinics, and can very safely say that this is single-handedly the best beauty treatment I’ve ever done. Here’s why.

What is lip blush?

"Lip blushing is an advanced permanent makeup treatment designed to enhance the natural beauty of the lips by adding soft, sheer colour and improved definition," explains Karen Betts Clinics, where I had my treatment done. "Using precise digital techniques and high-quality pigments, the treatment subtly enhances the lip shape, balances tone, and creates the appearance of fuller, healthier-looking lips."

Essentially, lip blushing is tattooing the lips with a soft wash of colour that lasts. Once healed, you can expect a natural tint that lasts from one to three years and imitates the look of liner or lipstick. The colour is fully customisable, so the results can be as deep or as soft as you like.

Lip blushing: My honest review

First appointment

When I went in for my very first treatment, I really had no idea what sort of results or colour I wanted. Years of relying on lip oils and tinted balms for hydration have meant that I never really discovered my signature lipstick shade. If you do have a shade you wear daily, you can take that along with you to your appointment to have the shade matched for your lip blush. However, I worked with my artist to mix up a colour we both thought suited me, and aligned with my desire to have a noticeable but natural pink tone.

The very first step is numbing. As soon as I arrived, my artist applied numbing cream to my lips that got to work quickly, and I waited about ten minutes for it to settle in before I went into the treatment room. From here, we got to discussing the colour I was after. My artist then mixed up the pigments to create a custom shade, and I tried two different variations on my lips before settling on one. The colour can be altered exactly to your liking, so no colour is off limits. However, keep in mind that it will look lighter and softer when fully healed, so don’t let the intense tint put you off.

Once the colour was decided, it was time for the tattooing process to start. Going in, I had no idea how long the whole treatment would take, so I was a little shocked to learn that it was going to be 90 minutes of tattooing. However, my artist made the whole process comfortable and relaxed, checking in with me as we went to make sure I was okay. Plus, you’re lying down the whole time, so there’s no uncomfortable positioning involved.

My artist started the treatment by sketching out my lip line and checking I was happy with the shape before moving on to the whole lip. It’s a process that requires a lot of precision and going over the same areas to get the pigment to be even, so be prepared for working and re-working from your artist for best results.

Now, although you are numbed pre-treatment, it does require topping up mid-way through. When the treatment started, I could feel the needle on my lips in some areas—mainly around the lip line, as this requires precise sketching. It feels most similar to a cat scratch, with a very sharp effect at first. However, it was completely bearable and didn’t last too long at any one time. Your artist will tattoo a small section before taking a short break, so there’s time to recover in between. Mid-way through, my artist lightly tattooed across my lips to allow for the second round of numbing cream to sink in deeper, which I could also feel—but again, was very speedy. Once this second round of numbing cream was applied, I almost couldn’t feel anything at all for the remainder of the treatment.

Post-appointment

After the tattooing was finished, I was left with a very intense colour across my lips (pictured) that resembled a deep pinky red lipstick, so it wasn’t a problem for me to go out and about afterwards. However, my lips did feel extremely sensitive. It felt like a bad sunburn, where the lips are slightly swollen and very tender with a hot feeling. For me, the first 24 hours after the appointment were the most uncomfortable due to this sensitivity—much more so than the tattooing process itself. However, I was given a healing ointment to apply to make the lips feel nourished and less tight. Applying it was also slightly painful, feeling like small needles pricking my lips when I touched them. I was also advised to drink through a straw and avoid getting toothpaste on the lips so as not to provide any more discomfort or impact the pigment. However, by the 36-48 hour mark, they felt absolutely fine and I could go back to eating, drinking, and applying lip balm as normal.

By this point, my lips began to slowly peel. It’s important not to peel them yourself to allow for proper healing and for the pigment to stick, so on day two my lips did look slightly worse for wear with small bits of skin flaking off. This was probably the only day I didn’t feel completely confident being out of the house, but that will depend on personal preference. About three days after the treatment, the peeling had more or less finished and my lips looked almost back to normal, just with a dark pink pigment.

It’s important to know that your lips will get darker before they get lighter as the pigment settles. So, whilst they will look pretty dark for the first week or so, they will then fade to a more natural wash which is how they will heal. Fully healed five weeks after my appointment, I was left with a gorgeous pink shade that meant I never felt the need to apply any lip colour. I could just wear a hydrating lip balm and still look like I had lipstick on.

Follow-up appointment

Although just the first appointment produced fantastic results for me, there is a follow-up appointment six weeks later to check on the colour and top up the pigment. This was done in exactly the same way as the first appointment, except it only took about 45 minutes. I found it to be much less uncomfortable than the first session, and easier afterwards since I already knew how to care for my lips post-treatment and what to expect in terms of healing.

Again, I left the appointment with darkly pigmented lips that followed the same healing process as the first time. I went into the office the day after, and my colleagues thought I was just wearing a dark red lipstick—no sign of excessive swelling. I continued applying the healing ointment as directed (every couple of hours) until the flaking process was over and the colour started to settle.

The results

Now, two months after my second and final treatment, I couldn’t be happier with the results. It looks extremely natural—so my lips don’t look out of place when I’m makeup-free—but the pink hue is still noticeable and a huge change from my usually pale lips.

I have had several friends ask about my lipstick and note how well it stayed on before revealing that it was actually lip blush, and I can’t remember the last time I applied lipstick or liner. I just leave the house with my trusty lip balms, and I don’t need to faff around reapplying lip colour after eating, drinking, or on a long night out. This has been the biggest change for me. Not having to sacrifice lip colour in order to give my lips hydration has been a total gamechanger.

There’s also something about my lips finally having colour that changes my whole face. Not only do I feel instantly put together even without any makeup on, but the colour warms my skin tone and makes me look healthier and more awake—something I welcome on early mornings when getting ready for work.

It’s by far the beauty treatment that has made the most noticeable and long-lasting change to my face, without any huge adjustments to my appearance.

Would I recommend lip blush?

To be completely truthful, the first couple of days after my very first treatment left me with a few doubts. I found the sensitivity and discomfort of my lips fairly challenging, and since I wasn’t used to seeing myself with dark lips, I didn’t quite feel like myself. However, after a few days and the peeling process was complete, I was convinced by lip blush. It’s a process that requires some patience before you get the results you’re after—similar to a chemical peel where you look slightly worse before you look better. But those couple of days of discomfort were more than worth it for the results I have now. I will never stop raving about the results, and the compliments I’ve been getting speak for themselves.

Shop lip care

As a self-confessed glow devotee, I never thought that I’d be singing the praises of a matte foundation. In fact, the very word would usually have struck terror in me. But then I tried Rare Beauty's latest launch, and I started to question everything.

This foundation, which comes in an impressive 48 shades, claims to be a multi-tasking formula—a long-lasting base that removes the need for a primer or setting powder. It also promises to be sweat-proof and smudge-proof, which would make it the perfect summer makeup solution. And while the mention of 'long-lasting' usually puts me off, the idea that this one product could replace three entire steps in my routine was enough of a pull for me to try it. And I'm so glad I did.

What's all the hype about Rare Beauty True to Myself Matte Foundation?

Whereas I usually apply a radiant base and mattify certain areas with a little pressed powder, this foundation has made me flip everything on its head. I apply this formula as a matte base and strategically add glow to the areas I want.

Previously, my makeup would slip and smudge all over the place if I even so much as touched my face, but with this, it’s a lot more durable and transfer-resistant. It creates a flawless, even base that adheres to your skin and sets perfectly, which is great, as I hate using too much powder.

The shade range is wonderfully diverse, so there’s an option to suit everyone’s skin. It contains hydrating and moisturising ingredients and reduces shine too, so it’s a matte that’s suitable for more skin types than you might initially think.

How to apply Rare Beauty True to Myself Matte Foundation

I’ve found that it’s best to apply this with a dry beauty blender sponge, rather than a brush. Bouncing and pressing it onto the skin this way creates the most uniform, even finish. As promised, you don’t need to layer a primer underneath it to increase staying power or blur pores, as this foundation does it all for you. Similarly, there's no need to finish with powder, as this formula sets everything down on its own, and adding anything on top would just ruin that perfect finish.

A little of this formula goes a long way, so it’s easy to dispense too much. Start with one pump on the back of your hand and apply from there, as it blends out further than you would think.

The Verdict

Honestly, I’m blown away by how much I love this base. I’m obsessed with how natural the finish is. It really does look like real skin—not too matte, just even and diffused, with no shine. It blurs the look of pores and hyperpigmentation, and makes your complexion look flawless. It adapts to your skin, so if you have combination skin, it will work slightly differently in each area to create a single flawless canvas. The coverage is medium to full, so it is buildable depending on your needs. I know it sells itself as a 3-in-1 product, but I’d go as far as to say it's 4-in-1, as it removes the need for a concealer for me too.

The reason I had stayed away from matte foundations previously was that I remembered them clinging to dry patches and texture in my youth, making my skin look worse than it was. They used to be so drying on the skin. However, formulas have evolved since then, and this one contains a unique True Comfort Complex—a triple-moisturising, barrier-boosting blend of sodium hyaluronate, ginger root, and algae extract. Meaning that even if you have slightly dry skin, I’d say this would still work well for you, as I agree with its claim that it keeps skin hydrated for up to eight hours.

Another thing I found was that it has brilliant staying power, with very few touch-ups required throughout the day. The formula contains advanced film formers that act as a primer and extend wear, as well as finely milled powders to self-set and lock coverage in place. As someone dealing with premature menopause, and so sweating more than I used to, I can confirm that it doesn’t disturb this base. I’m also always dabbing at my nose with a tissue, and doing this doesn’t disturb it much either.

I’m so impressed with this foundation—how easily and flawlessly it applies, how weightless it is, and how it moves with me throughout my day without creasing, settling in lines, or smudging. It’s true that I don’t have oily skin, but I’m confident the silicones in this formula will help make it sebum-resistant and blur even larger pores than I have.

If you've been anywhere near Instagram this week, you probably already know: Marc Jacobs Beauty has returned, and it has arrived with considerable noise. The range relaunched at Selfridges last week, marking our first proper look at the brand's entirely new makeup vision—something we hadn't seen since 2021, when Kendo, the brand incubator behind its first chapter, discontinued the original line. The disappearance was unexplained at the time, and it left a devoted cult following genuinely bereft. It took a new licensing deal—this time with Coty, which has produced Marc Jacobs fragrances for two decades—to finally bring it back. And crucially, this isn't simply a resurrection of the old line. The sleek black compacts of the original are gone entirely; what's replaced them is something far more maximalist, more playful, and—simply put—more Marc.

The range has already won fans on the packaging alone. Pop art motifs run throughout: daisies for complexion, chubby five-point stars for eyes, hearts for lips. Product names lean into cheerful innuendo—Born Star Eyeshadow, Money Shot Highlighter Gel, Heart On Lipstick, Drawn This Way Eyeliner. It's maximalism as a manifesto. But the obvious question, and the one worth asking before you hand over your credit card, is whether any of this translates beyond the obligatory unboxing video.

Having spent time with the range, here is my honest verdict.

First impressions

If I'm being honest, I braced myself for style over substance with this launch. Designer beauty relaunches don't always deliver—the packaging does the heavy lifting, and the formula subsequently disappoints. I'm relieved to report that this is not what happened here.

The second thing that strikes you (after the inevitable cooing over the packaging) is how the products feel: The tubes have a velvet-touch finish, and the compacts feel suitably weighty to signal genuine quality—nothing rattles, nothing flexes where it shouldn't, the Marc Jacobs logo neatly lines up upon closing, and picking any piece up feels satisfying in the way that only well-made things do.

The full range

Now, onto the products themselves. There are seven SKUs in total—spanning eyes, complexion and lips—each leaning into what the brand calls "Joyride Sensoriality": skincare-infused formulations with unexpected textures that keep things feeling playful rather than po-faced. Daisy flower oil, hyaluronic acid and biomimetic peptides crop up across multiple products, which feels apt for a launch positioning itself against the clean, skin-first minimalism that has dominated the past few years.

The shade ranges are generous—21 shades in the eyeliner alone, 20 in the lipstick, 14 in the eyeshadow—and the colour editing is confident: proper neutrals alongside cheerfully bold options, rather than the usual hedge. Everything I tried was creamy, pigmented, blendable and impressively long-wearing. But three products deserve particular attention...

For years, I've been trying to master powder. I know it's touted as the key to long-lasting, fresh-looking make-up, but it's never sat well on my dry skin, which can be a nightmare when it comes to make-up prep. Concealer always settles into fine lines, eyeshadow creases, and by 3pm, the skin I had carefully primed to look dewy has lost all its sheen.

As it turns out, I was doing it all wrong for my skin type. A fellow beauty journalist recently recommended using a serum stick for touch-ups on the go, and I haven't looked back since. It allows me to effortlessly diffuse creasing and dry patches, while bringing my skin back to life in seconds, wherever I may be.

I was surprised to learn that these handy little sticks have long been a staple in many MUAs' kits, not least for Aimee Twist, who often uses them on herself and her celebrity clients. "I use them to bring luminosity back into the skin, especially after setting make-up, which can sometimes leave the complexion looking a little flat or dry," she says. "They're perfect for reviving tired make-up, it makes the skin look so much fresher and more radiant. Plus, they won't disturb make-up underneath."

How to use serum sticks

Twist likes to apply serum sticks with her fingertips, pressing the product into the skin rather than swiping it on or clogging a blush. "I focus on the high points of the face, including the cheekbones, bridge of the nose and brow bone, wherever I want to add a subtle, natural looking sheen," she explains.

Best serum sticks on the market, 2026

We’re all busy people, and if there’s a way to get something done faster, we’ll try it, right? So, when I saw that Sacheu had launched a 2-in-1, duo-tone lip liner and balm, I thought it was genius. I couldn’t believe that nobody else had done this before. Sure, we have a plethora of double-ended lip liners and lipsticks, but not in the same bullet.

I really wanted this to work, even though most of these quick fixes don't work so well in practice. It comes in nine different colourways—from pale, more natural-looking combos, to a serious statement lip. It promises that you can line and fill in one swipe— with the darker shade defining, and the lighter side filling the lip.

What’s so good about the Sacheu DoubleDown Lip Definer 2-in-1 Liner & Balm?

For a "hack" that actually delivers on its promises, the Sacheu DoubleDown is something of a miracle. At £16, it's also a genuine bargain. My twist-up lip liners have a habit of snapping mid-application—wasting product every time—but the chunky bullet format means that's no longer a problem.

To have two formulas in one bullet, both of which do their job perfectly, is a literal dream. They glide on seamlessly and blend effortlessly, so you really do get a fully defined, contoured lip in seconds. Both the liner half and the balm half apply so smoothly and with great precision, and they’re full of nourishing oils (Avocado Oil, Rosehip Oil, and Vitamin E) to keep lips moisturised. The colour is buildable too, and when you go over the lips again, you still get that precision and natural-looking definition between colours.

How to apply the Sacheu DoubleDown Lip Definer 2-in-1 Liner & Balm?

As you would expect, the darker shade should be at your lip line, and the paler shade facing towards the centre of your lip. Then all you need to do is trace the outline of your top lip, flipping upside down for the bottom lip. The texture is creamy, so it will glide across the lip rather than drag. Finally, press the centre of your lips together to lightly blend the paler shade for seamless, instantly contoured lips.

The Verdict: A beauty editor’s honest review

It’s the texture and level of colour payoff of the two tones that make this work so well. It feels almost buttery, which helps the tones to blend naturally rather than apply as harsh lines. The liner colour has that perfect little bit of extra saturation to really define the lips and make them look fuller.

You do need to reapply this fairly regularly, and in the age of lip stain liners, this might feel like a chore; but honestly, I’ll happily reapply this as often as needed in exchange for how easily it gives me the perfect lip. It fades evenly and applies with the same precision again and again. If you want it to last longer, outline your lips with a lip liner stain first, then apply this over the top for extra staying power. Also, if you prefer a glossy finish over the satin finish this gives, just pop a gloss over the top.

I’m not a trained makeup artist, and I regularly gaze longingly at perfectly contoured and blended lips on Instagram, wishing that I could create a lip look as perfect, but now I can. These went straight to the top of my makeup bag.

As a beauty editor, I hadn’t ignored foundation sticks so much as mentally categorised them. In my head, they belonged to the old pan-stick school of complexion: full coverage, high pigment, resolutely matte and not especially kind to skin that now prefers hydration over heavy-handed perfection. I’d assumed they would cling, crease and flatten rather than enhance—particularly on mid-life skin.

It turns out, today’s formulas are playing an entirely different game. They are creamier, more flexible, and far more skin-like, delivering the ease and portability of a stick with finishes that rival those of a good liquid. After reluctantly trying one during a rushed morning, I found myself reaching for it again the next day. And then the next.

Why are foundation sticks worth the hype?

Part of the appeal is purely practical. A stick foundation removes a lot of the faff from getting ready. There’s no pump, no palette, no accidental foundation slick leaking inside your makeup bag. I swipe it directly onto skin, blend with fingertips, and I’m done in under two minutes—a detail that matters far more to me these days than a 10-step complexion routine. “Stick foundations are multi-use, quick to apply, great for touch-ups, and lighter to travel with," explains Jamie Coombes, Dior Beauty International Backstage Makeup Artist UK. "Making them a great alternative to fluid foundation.”

But convenience alone wouldn’t have converted me. What surprised me most was how adaptable these formulas have become. Athina Ioannidou, Sephora UK Pro Team Member, agrees. "Modern stick foundations have moved far beyond that perception, becoming less about 'masking' the skin and more about enhancing it."

There has also been a major shift toward hybrid makeup-skincare formulas. "Ingredients such as squalane, hyaluronic acid, and shea butter are now commonly incorporated into stick foundations to improve hydration, wear comfort, and skin compatibility," adds Ioannidou. This means today's formulations melt into skin rather than sitting stubbornly on top of it. The finish feels breathable, the coverage is easy to dial up or down, and most can multitask as a concealer for redness, pigmentation, or the occasional hormonal breakout.

Which skin types can use foundation sticks?

"Foundation sticks are incredibly versatile," says Coombes. So much so that all skin types can benefit from using them. The key, according to Coombes, is choosing the right formulation to benefit and enhance your complexion.

For dry skin, look to creamier, hydrating textures that help prevent clinginess and deliver a smoother complexion. On oily skin, a soft matte or long-wear formula works best. Combination skins should look for satin finishes that will balance both dry and oily areas. On mature skin, Coombes suggests lightweight formulas with minimal powder create a natural effect. And for acne-prone skin, a buildable, non-comedogenic stick allows for precise coverage without excessive overlap.

How to use foundation sticks?

There’s also something brilliant about the control a stick offers. Instead of blanketing the entire face with product, Coombes recommends focusing on specific areas of my face: target the centre of my forehead, nose, cheeks, and chin, then blend outward in circular motions. This more strategic approach allows more of my actual skin to show through. The result is less ‘full face’ and more hyper-real-looking skin.

For a natural, everyday finish, applying the stick foundation with a buffing brush works the best, according to Ioannidou. "A brush like the Sephora Collection Essential N.06 helps distribute product evenly, while maintaining coverage and creating a polished, skin-like effect." This technique, she says, is especially effective for combination or oily skin, as it prevents over-emollient application. For higher coverage and a more seamless result, a damp beauty sponge can be used for application. "Sponges help build the formula slightly and press the product into the skin, giving a more blurred and high coverage appearance," explains Ioannidou.

For anyone who wants makeup that works hard without demanding too much time, tools, or precision, foundation sticks are enjoying a deserved renaissance. Consider this my formal apology for underestimating them. I swapped my trusted liquid for a stick—and my overflowing make-up bag, hurried weekday routine and surprisingly convincing complexion are all better for it.

Our favourite foundation sticks

If you're on the never-ending quest for smooth, supple, "glass-like" skin, then it's time to get acquainted with Japanese beauty.

While it has a similar ethos to the innovations coming out of South Korea—so, a focus on gentle, hydrating and barrier-building ingredients—there are key differences. While K-beauty is focused on trends and rapid production, J-beauty formulas are often decades in the making, and centred around specific ingredients, like ferments, green tea, rice and seaweed, as well as precise application techniques.

In fact, it has been a favourite amongst industry insiders for decades, well before it became easily accessible in the UK. So, without further ado, the very best of the sector across make-up, skincare, haircare and fragrance, as selected by those in the know.

Best J-Beauty Products to Shop Now

When it comes to mascara, few brands rival Maybelline. From the now-iconic Great Lash to the viral success of Sky High, it’s arguably dominated the category for decades. But until now, one thing was missing from its line-up: a tubing formula.

Enter Maybelline Lash Sensational Sky High Sky Tubes Mascara. Promising 24 hours of smudge-proof, budge-proof wear with lengthening, defining payoff, it also taps into the appeal of tubing technology—one of the most in-demand mascara formats right now.

For the uninitiated, tubing mascaras don’t coat lashes in traditional pigment. Instead, they wrap each lash in flexible, water-resistant “tubes” formed by polymers. The result is glossy, defined length that resists flaking, smudging and transfer—even on oily lids or in humid conditions. And when it comes to removal, those tubes simply slide off with warm water, meaning no rubbing, no panda eyes and no need for heavy-duty removers.

But does Maybelline’s first foray into tubing live up to the hype—and, more importantly, does it rival the category’s established heroes? I put it to the test.

Maybelline Lash Sensational Sky High Sky Tubes Mascara Review

First impressions

To say I was excited when I heard Maybelline was finally launching a tubing mascara would be an understatement. Tubing formulas are by far my favourite: they wrap each lash for a more even, clump-resistant finish, stay firmly in place throughout the day and slide off effortlessly with warm water come evening.

The packaging feels like a natural evolution of Sky High—sleek silver punctuated with that signature pink—striking enough to stand out, without being garish. I also like the subtle nod in the name; it positions this as a next-generation take on one of the brand’s most successful mascaras, rather than a departure from it.

The wand

As with most tubing mascaras, the brush features moulded silicone bristles rather than traditional fibres. This allows it to comb through lashes with precision, evenly distributing the polymer formula so each lash is cleanly coated from root to tip.

There’s also just the right amount of flexibility in the wand—it bends enough to reach into corners and catch even the smallest lashes, while still offering sufficient resistance to grip at the root and build definition where it counts.

The formula

Maybelline describes the formula as “very black”, though I’d argue it stops just short of that inky, blue-black intensity you get from some of the most pigmented mascaras. Still, it coats lashes in a convincingly rich veil of colour that enhances definition without looking flat.

It’s also infused with shea butter and strengthening castor oil, which lends the formula a more conditioning feel than most. Crucially, it never sets stiff—my lashes remained soft, flexible and comfortably lifted throughout the day, rather than brittle or overly lacquered.

The application

While it separates lashes beautifully, it does take a couple of extra coats to achieve the lift I get from some other tubing formulas. That said, once built up, it proves impressively reliable—holding definition and staying perfectly in place for the rest of the day.

The verdict

I’m not so blown away that I’ll be swearing off every other mascara in my collection, but I am genuinely impressed—enough that it’s become my daily default. It delivers on the key promises of a tubing formula: clean separation, reliable, all-day wear and effortless removal with warm water. The trade-off is a slightly softer black finish than some rivals, and it takes a couple of extra coats to build the same level of lift. Still, for ease, consistency and affordability, it more than earns its place in my routine.

I have a confession: as much as I love makeup, I’m terrible at remembering to wear it. Which, as a beauty editor, doesn’t exactly feel on brand. Lipstick, in particular, is where I fall short—I might apply it at the start of the day (on a good day), then forget it exists for the next 12 hours.

Which is why lip contour sticks have surprised me. Not only do I reach for them instinctively, I keep reapplying them. Whether lining the lips (and giving them added volume or natural-looking definition) or adding colour like a lipstick, they've quickly become a staple in my makeup bag.

The whole 'lip contour' thing has arguably been a long time coming. After years of peak lip filler popularity, we're now looking for easier, less expensive ways to perfect and plump our pout. This is especially relevant given how lip filler appointments are gradually falling out of favour; for example, Google Trends data found that searches for ‘lip filler near me’ dipped 31% in early 2025. Aesthetic appointments these days focus more on longevity and regenerative treatments, thus representing a cultural shift that's moved us away from injectables and towards other (more accessible) means.

It also started with Hailey Bieber and Rhode – as many beauty trends and launches do these days. In January 2025, Bieber launched her Peptide Lip Shape: an extension of Rhode's current lip line (which debuted with the now-iconic Peptide Lip Treatment). It was marketed as a vehicle to 'contour' the lips, sitting somewhere between a lipstick crayon and liner (but definitely not only the latter, the brand insisted). Ever since, brands from L'Oreal Paris to Revolution have launched their iterations of contouring crayons, pencils and stains, solidifying the lip contour category's status as today's 'it' makeup product.

I'm certainly drinking the Kool-Aid. As a certified lazy girl, I hate having to find and use a lip 'combo.' I know it's on trend right now, but I don't have the will to use 4353453 different products to create my perfect lip look. A contouring crayon that can be used everywhere and for everything, therefore, is ideal.

I've now tried several and have my favourites. I've also perfected my most effective technique. On hydrated lips, I first use the product to outline my lips like a liner, taking it right to the edges and even a little beyond. On my cupid's bow, I create more of a straight line across for a volumised effect. After this, I begin to subtly fill in the rest of the lip, aiming for a more blurred, sheer effect so the liner stays a little bolder.

Application: A makeup artist's tips

Need more application tips? Makeup Artist Emily Wood shares the following:

1. Map where you want to contour

"For contouring lips, I like to use a softly sculpted approach as contouring is more subtle than lining, so I’d say enhance what’s already there by looking at the natural lip shape. The key areas are the cupid’s bow and the centre of the lower lip, which is where you can really play with adding fullness. Lightly sketch first rather than committing straight away to really get a feel for the shape of your lips."

2. Stay Close to Your Natural Line

"It can be fun to apply a heavy contrasting colour to the lips, but for contouring this would make lips look too heavy. Instead, slightly overline just at the peaks of the cupid’s bow and the centre of the bottom lip, then follow the natural shape at the corners to not stray too far from the natural line."

3. Use a tone, not just a colour

"A contour lip liner should be just a touch deeper than your natural lip tone, not dramatically darker. Think of it like adding shadows and creating dimension, not just a line of colour."

4. Blend well

"Harsh lines will kill the contouring effect. Use a small brush or even your fingertip to soften the edges inwards, almost diffusing the liner into the lip. It should look like it’s part of your lip rather than sitting on top."

5. Balance with light

"A little touch of something lighter, whether that’s a lipstick, gloss, or even a dab of concealer in the centre, will bring the whole look forward and make the contouring feel fresh."

The 5 best lip contour products

Most of us know by now that daily SPF application should be non-negotiable, but there can be plenty of barriers that stop that habit from sticking. By far one of the easiest ways to keep your skin protected without adding an additional step to your morning routine is investing in a good primer with SPF.

Not only do they make makeup application seamless and boost longevity, but they work to prevent UV damage too—and it gives you one less step in your busy morning routine. The best primer is one that works with your skin type and provides all the benefits you need, from locking your best foundation in place to offering extra hydration and brightness. But as the weather warms up and the UV index gets higher, a formula that offers sun protection too is essential.

Best primers with SPF: Quick shopping links

• Most versatile: £18 at e.l.f.
• Best lightweight: £34 at Lookfantastic
• Best moisturising: £99 at Cult Beauty
• Best everyday: £42 at Cult Beauty
• High protection: £29 at Beauty Pie
• Best travel size: £14.40 at Lookfantastic
• Best smoothing: £30 at Lookfantastic

Best primers with SPF

How we tested primers with SPF

Every primer included in this guide has been tested by a member of our expert beauty team on several occasions, or is a regular part of their beauty routine. We test products daily, including primers with SPF, and only the very best make it into our final edit.

When planning my wedding almost eight years ago, I somehow thought that the bridal make-up would be the easy part. After all, I spend my life testing foundations and interviewing make-up artists so I just assumed that I’d book someone, turn up, and end up looking like a slightly more polished version of myself. However, like all things wedding-related, it’s not quite that straightforward and after a couple of trials where I really didn’t love the end result, I decided to do my wedding day make-up myself. The thing that gave me the confidence to do so? Booking in for a bridal make-up service at Bobbi Brown.

Of course, whether you want to do it yourself, book an artist to come to you, or spend some time sitting down at a beauty counter and figuring it all out in advance, it does require some planning. And I didn’t realise just how many brands and stores across the UK actually offer dedicated bridal make-up services. Brands like Bobbi Brown and Charlotte Tilbury have long been go-tos for wedding makeup, with bookable appointments that double as trials or lessons. But you’ve also got department stores like John Lewis and Selfridges, where you can sit down, try multiple brands, and get a feel for what actually suits you—all with an expert on hand to offer guidance and lend a professional hand for application.

“Booking a 1:1 lesson with a professional make-up artist ahead of your wedding is so valuable,” says make-up artist Jacinta Ruscillo. “Even if you have an artist booked for the day itself, there are often pre-wedding celebrations, dinners and even your honeymoon where you’ll want to feel confident doing your own makeup,” Ruscillo recommends booking a bridal makeup service and focusing on mastering some fundamentals. “Things like shaping and filling your brows, skin prep and base application, and a few simple eye looks that you can reliably recreate,” she suggests. “It’s also important to ask about how to create longevity. Occasion makeup needs to last, so understanding how to build and set your makeup properly will make a huge difference.”

The best thing about bridal make-up services is that you’ve got real time with a genuine expert to make sure that you understand how the products will wear during the day, see your make-up in different lighting and, crucially, avoid any last-minute mishaps on the day. Whether you’re planning to do it yourself or hire a make-up artist on the day (some of these locations offer both!), the best services give you a clear plan of action and a crucial bit of confidence that you’ll look like the best version of you on your wedding day.

The Best Bridal Make-Up Services

1. Charlotte Tilbury

Renowned for their trademark glowy makeup looks, Charlotte Tilbury makes a natural choice for modern brides and they have an impressive range of bridal make-up services to choose from. Plus, it’s beauty editor approved, with freelance beauty journalist and Marie Claire contributor Tori Crowther trusting the brand with her own wedding day make-up. There’s the option to book a one-off wedding make-up session at a counter near you, where a makeup artist will work to create your perfect special occasion look and they’ll map out exactly what products to use on the day—perfect if you’re going to do your own make-up on the day. Or, you can actually book a bridal beauty stylist to do your look on your big day—which involves a trial run ahead of time. Either way, if you’re looking for a really soft glam, radiant, look for your wedding then Charlotte Tilbury undoubtedly delivers.

2. Bobbi Brown

I did my own bridal make-up when I got married nearly eight years ago, and to help build my confidence on the day I booked in for a wedding day session at Bobbi Brown. Back then it was at their incredible studio store in Soho (which is sadly no longer there) but you can still book in-store appointments at Bobbi Brown counters up and down the country. The Get Occasion Ready service gives you an hour with a professional make-up artist, where they’ll apply a full face of a make-up—starting with skincare as the brand is renowned for their skin prep—and you’ll leave with a look that’s wearable, long-lasting and, most importantly, easy to recreate. In my opinion, this is a great option if you still want to look like yourself on the day, but your application techniques could do with a little sharpening up.

3. John Lewis

Available at the Beauty Society in participating John Lewis stores, the ‘full makeover’ consultation gives you a 90-minute consultation and complete makeover with a make-up artist for your special occasion. You’ll leave with your full look nailed, and a detailed list of all the products used. Plus, there’s plenty of time to ask questions and get expert advice. The best thing about it being in a department store is that, of course, you aren’t limited to products from one brand so in my opinion this is ideal if you want help creating a bridal beauty look that can be recreated using some of the contents of your current make-up bag.

4. NARS Cosmetics

For brides that might already have an idea about how they’d like their wedding day make-up to look, or they already have a trademark beauty style (think a bright red lip or sharped winged eyeliner) a Bridal by NARS custom session makes for the perfect opportunity to perfect your look. The make-up artists here are masters at creating really fresh and modern make-up looks, and are particularly brilliant at nailing a sheer, seamless almost editorial skin look. The appointments feel really relaxed and collaborative, and give you the chance to test how products wear and tweak certain things that don’t feel right so that you emerge with a really personalised bridal look that you can create again on the big day. Or, if you live near a NARS counter, you can even book in a session on the wedding day itself.

5. Selfridges

Selfridges definitely feels like a step up in terms of experience so the Wedding Look Trial Consultation is definitely one for the bride that’s discerning about their beauty brands. You’ll meet with your beauty concierge who has access to all of the amazing brands in the Selfridges Beauty Hall and will help you to create the perfect wedding day look, keeping in mind your hair, outfit and overall theme. With high-end brands and niche discoveries, it feels like a beauty playground and you’ll definitely get a chance to experiment to find the best version of your look. If you love it, and are getting married close to a Selfridges store, you can even opt to book in for a Wedding Morning Makeover which costs £150 on the day.

6. Jones Road at Liberty

It’s no surprise that Bobbi Brown’s next beauty venture, Jones Road, has absolutely nailed its bridal beauty offering with a trio of bridal make-up services available at their counter in Liberty London. If you’re planning to do your own make-up then the Bridal Lesson (£110) is invaluable. You’ll work with a trained Jones Road make-up artist to learn the step-by-step process of how to create your perfect wedding day look, and will get a personalised face chart to take home so don’t forget anything. Plus, you can also book trial sessions and on-the-day bridal application slots if you want the team to actually create your wedding day look.

7. Estée Lauder

Book one of Estée Lauder’s free ‘Learn A New Look’ sessions at their nationwide counters and get tips from a make-up artist on how to prep skin for your big day and elevate your make-up with bespoke bridal tips. It’s perfect if you’re short on time or just want some reassurance before going away to practice on your own. And as a brand with decades of experience, you can trust that you’ll find formulas and finishes that you’ll love in their iconic line-up. After all, how many brides have relied on the legendary Double Wear Foundation as their wedding day base of choice?

Being nearly 42, it’s not common to like pastel pink as much as I do. Sure, I can dress chic and sophisticated in nude tones and moody brown and burgundy, but part of my soul is very Gen-Z and gravitates towards bows, pink and pretty pastels. So, you can imagine how thrilled I was when I studied the beauty looks from the SS26 runways last September. Pastel makeup is back, and this is one trend I’m fully on board with. This ballet-inspired movement is primarily about ‘ballet slipper pink’ tones, but also includes baby blue and lilac.

Before we get down to the best makeup products to get in on this trend, let me first explain what it is and how it became the look of the moment this spring 2026. If you think back to your childhood ballet classes, not all of you little ballerinas wore pink; some opted for pastel blue or lavender shades of leotards and cardigans. These are the three tones that make up this trend. Ballet-core fashion has been having a resurgence for a while, so it’s not surprising that it has made its appearance in makeup. There’s also been a social media trend of ‘romanticising the everyday’ for a couple of years now, so much so that it has become a whole aesthetic in itself.

There are a few ways you can incorporate the ballet-inspired pastel trend into your makeup look; as seen in the SS26 fashion shows in New York, London, Milan, and Paris. I always look here to identify trends, then wait for awards season to see which ones are really taking off on the red carpet.

Ballet slipper lips

This is an easy one for everyone to get on-board with, as it involves pale, pink-toned nudes giving a wash of delicate colour to your pout. Coach’s SS26 New York Fashion Week runway showed models walk with feminine pastel-toned lips by Pat McGrath. Similarly, makeup artist Lucy J Bridge created baby pink lip looks for the SS26 London Fashion Week Conner Ives show. Then jumping ahead to this spring, Elle Fanning showed how to wear it off-catwalk with her look for this year’s Academy Awards, created by makeup artist Erin Ayanian Monroe.

Ballet blush

Soft pink and lilac blushed cheeks are the order of the day here. Over in Paris, ballet blush was seen at the Chloe SS26 show, where makeup artist Shane Kish created a custom blended Saie blush shade that left models with a delicate pink flush. Flash forward to awards season, and Kate Hudson walked the Oscars red carpet with soft pink cheeks created by makeup artist Tonya Brewer using Charlotte Tilbury. As did actress Mckenna Grace; whose whole look gave ballerina vibes. Makeup artist Allan Avendano and her stylist were in full ballet mode.

Ballet-inspired pastel eyeshadow

When I say that pastel pink, blue and lilac eyeshadow was everywhere during the SS26 fashion weeks, I’m not exaggerating. Makeup artist Becky Moore had models don this look on the Rixo SS26 catwalk. As did Terry Barber for MAC at the SS26 Polite Policy London Fashion Week show, and Mandy Gakhal at British womenswear designer Naomi Heart’s SS26 London Fashion Week show. Over to awards season, and actress Chase Infiniti at the Academy Awards, and model Amelia Gray at the Golden Globes, wore lilac-washed eyelids.

Pastel eyeshadow can be a difficult look to get on board with in everyday life, as fully covered lids do make a statement. However, there are many more wearable ways to wear this eyeshadow trend, as shown by makeup artist Cat Parnell on a recent shoot – her small dab of baby blue on the outer corners of the eyelid is a lot more subtle. Makeup artist Diane Kendal also used pastel pink very subtly at the Isabel Marant SS26 Paris Fashion Week show, simply in the model’s waterlines.

Now for the products that will help you dabble in this ballet-inspired pastel makeup trend.

The best ballet pastel makeup to try now

1. Summer Fridays Dream Lip Oil in Rosebud

2. Armani Beauty Prisma Gloss Lip Gloss in 05 Rosy Dream

3. Guerlain KissKiss Bee Glow Lip Oil in 209 Blooming Glow

4. Rhode Pocket Blush in Piggy

5. Gucci Beauty Glow Highlighter Powder in 02 Frosted Lilac

6. Valentino Eye2Cheek Dual-Use Blush and Shadow in 100R Stand Out In Nude

7. Armani Beauty Eye Tint Liquid Eyeshadow in Sakura

8. Chanel Les 4 Ombres Eyeshadow Palette in 19 Denim Dream

9. Dior Diorshow 5 Couleurs Eyeshadow Palette in 865 Pink Lollipop

10. Lisa Eldridge Betty Eyeshadow Palette

11. NARS Total Seduction Eyeshadow Stick in Wired

Concealer certainly isn’t the most exciting makeup category, and I've never really been blown away by one before. However, most of us wear it in our everyday routines, and so the search for the best concealer is something that many take very seriously. When I got my hands on the new MAC Studio Fix 36HR Smooth Angles Concealer, I was apathetic at best. MAC is one of the most popular makeup brands for professional makeup artists, and their Studio Fix foundations are cult products. So, I really should have been more hyped about trying this.

It comes in a whopping 44 shades and promises to even out your complexion ‘from every angle’, concealing dark circles, imperfections, and acne. It advertises that it offers 36-hour waterproof, transfer-proof wear, blurring the look of the skin to create a smooth canvas. I’ve been testing it for a few weeks now, and I need to share my thoughts. This MAC concealer is not to be missed.

What’s so good about the MAC Studio Fix 36HR Smooth Angles Concealer?

As should be the case with all makeup products by default, the shade range of this new concealer is extensive and inclusive. At £25, it’s also not the most expensive concealer on the market, sitting quite nicely mid-range. When you look at the packaging, it doesn't look like you get as much product here as with a lot of other concealers, but you truly don’t need to apply much, so it balances out.

Whilst these are all great selling points, they aren’t the reason that I’m writing a full article dedicated to this new launch. The coverage that this concealer offers, whilst still looking like natural skin, is unparalleled. It hides pigmentation, blurs tonal and textural imperfections like nothing else, and stays in place all day. It’s a silicone-based concealer, so it physically fills pores and lines to create a flawless-like finish. It’s also infused with makeup-setting ingredients, meaning that you don’t need to set it with a powder to get that staying power. It contains moisturising glycerin to stop it looking cakey, and the applicator fits in all the hard-to-reach contours of your face.

How to apply the MAC Studio Fix 36HR Smooth Angles Concealer?

You don’t need to apply much—I start with my main areas of pigmentation from my under-eye area to my jaw, and then I drag the excess to my nose, chin, and forehead. I find this concealer applies best with a soft concealer (or eyeshadow) brush, in a light, sweeping motion to help blend. I don’t need to set it with powder—it just stays in place, crease-free, all day.

I don’t have acne or any major textural imperfections, but I do have a lot of dark spots, as well as redness around my nose, and some dark circles if I’m tired enough. So, what I need from a concealer is one that will brighten and lift my complexion, as well as conceal the areas of pigmentation to make my skin look uniform. It does this so well that my skin looks like a blank canvas. Not glowy, not matte, just natural.

This—the first concealer to really knock my socks off—is so special because it seems to work like magic. And by magic, I mean it manages to conceal and perfect my imperfections in a way that makes me feel like I have new skin. One that still looks, feels, and moves like my own, but oh so much better. I wish I'd had this gem on my wedding day.

Every time I use this, my jaw hits the floor with how smooth and even it makes my skin look. I honestly don’t think I’ll ever use another concealer ever again. And coming from someone who tests beauty products for a living, that’s high praise.

Thanks to several years of fairly extreme acne as a teen, I became accustomed to wearing the highest coverage foundation I could get my hands on—every day without fail. Now, I can think of nothing worse. I've retired almost every traditional foundation product in favour of a lightweight glow enhancer, and my skin has never looked better.

Don't get me wrong, there's certainly a time and a place for a full coverage base. I have countless friends who swear by these formulas, and they look incredible with the right skin prep. But if there's one thing to know about my approach to makeup, it's that laziness prevails. I want low effort products that will make me look my best with minimal steps. A glow enhancer does exactly that, without clinging to any dry patches, feeling uncomfortably cakey on my skin, or creasing throughout the day—all problems I frequently encounter with traditional foundations.

But I'm not talking about the glow you get from face tans or a night cream, more like the effect of an illuminating primer with a hydrating finish that lasts all day long. From tinted formulas with enough coverage for blemishes to SPF with a dewy look, these are the glow enhancers I use on a daily basis as my base product to make my skin look refreshed, healthy, and radiant.

Shop the best glow enhancers

Finding a good setting spray can be the difference between good makeup and great makeup. The right formula should feel refreshing on application, weightless on the skin and lock everything seamlessly in place until the end of the day. The wrong one, however, can feel sticky and suffocating, clog pores or simply fail to deliver any real staying power. And as we move into the warmer months, finding that perfect formula becomes even more essential.

I like to think of myself as somewhat of a setting spray authority. I’ve tried nearly all of them, and my standards are pretty high. My skin comes with a multitude of demands—dark spots and lingering redness from perioral dermatitis around my nose—yet I consistently favour a lighter-coverage skin tint over foundation. I want my skin to show through, with just enough coverage to soften pigmentation and even out tone. As such, my setting spray has to work harder than most, keeping that minimal base perfectly in place with no margin for error.

Over the years, I’ve found a handful of setting sprays I trust for events or evenings out, but never one that could truly go the distance—keeping my skin tint in place from the breakfast table to the moment I fall into bed. Until now.

Enter the new Morphe Lifeproof Continuous Setting Mist. A mist that promises a 16-hour hold, and for your makeup look to be waterproof, sweat-proof, and transfer-resistant. All while feeling lightweight, non-sticky, and looking invisible. As soon as I read the new Morphe setting spray's claims, I had to put it to the test. And, my friends, you’re going to want to pay attention.

What’s so good about the Morphe Lifeproof Continuous Setting Mist?

There’s no doubt Morphe knows a thing or two about makeup, but this setting mist makes some bold claims. It basically promises to keep your makeup in place across your entire waking hours, no matter what you throw at it along the way. Just what we need for spring and summer, right? It does this by forming an invisible, flexible ‘film’ across your skin. I was certainly listening. Aside from this, it offers some great skincare benefits—being alcohol-free, and containing hydrating, skin-soothing, barrier-repairing ectoin. This is one for you, sensitive skins. It also contains plant extracts to reduce shine if you have oilier skin. But does it work? Is this the holy grail of setting mists?

How to use the Morphe Lifeproof Continuous Setting Mist

If you’re like me, you’ll normally apply setting mists multiple times in the process of doing your makeup to set different layers. Morphe has said this is not the spray for that. This is very much a ‘finisher’—designed to be used at the end to lock everything in place. To apply, close your eyes and mouth, spray 8-10 inches from your face, then leave to set for 60 seconds.

A beauty editor’s honest review

I can see why Morphe says that this is a setting mist to use at the end of your complete makeup look. It seems to have an almost magical ability to blend and fuse all your makeup into one smooth canvas. And whilst it might have plant extracts to reduce shine from underneath, it actually leaves a stunning glass-skin glow, reminding me of a much subtler, more wearable version of Pat McGrath’s viral doll-face catwalk makeup looks a couple of years ago.

But let’s get down to where it really matters – what did it do for my base? Let’s be real first: no one’s face is going to look the same at 10 PM as it did when you left the house. No mist can do that—especially if you’re exposing your skin to Britain’s infamous weather. I certainly put this setting to the test—multiple hours of writing at home, broken by commuting on the train and walking in the rain to a couple of PR meetings, then dinner and drinks with a friend.

Aside from losing some of my tubing mascara and tubing brow gel (which is inevitable with those formulas as soon as you rub them or expose them to water), I’d say my base is pretty much intact and offering the same coverage it did in the morning. Yes, my blush has faded quite a lot, but that base (and lip liner) is holding strong everywhere except for the little bit of redness around my nostrils from blowing my nose.

The Morphe Lifeproof Continuous Setting Mist definitely delivers on keeping your base in place for an entire day, albeit with a bit of fading. But what I was probably most impressed with was the immediately-perfecting, glowy finish it gave the skin. This, for sure, is a staple in my makeup bag now and I’ll be reaching for it on those long days ahead where I don’t have time to re-do my base.

I'm a firm believer that a good bronzer can transform every makeup look. On the days I'm pushed for time or lacking energy, sweeping one of the best bronzers over my cheekbones and forehead is enough to make me feel alive and glowy. But by far the very best form is a liquid bronzer.

Don't get me wrong, cream bronzers are some of my most used products of all time. But there's something about the dewy finish of a liquid bronzer, as well as how seamlessly they blend, that makes them my go-to when my skin needs some colour and radiance. Not to mention, they can be mixed with your moisturiser or foundation for even easier application and a totally natural tanned finish.

If you have drier skin that doesn't agree with matte powder bronzers or prefer a more subtle look than a pigmented cream, a liquid bronzer may be exactly what you're lacking. But fear not, I've tested the very best liquid formulas, from bronzing drops to thicker formulas with more coverage, and curated a list of the ones I'd recommend to anyone looking to achieve a healthy glow.

Shop the best liquid bronzers

Spring may technically still be weeks away, but with the wind howling outside and the lights on at 2 pm while I write this, I’m more than ready to start thinking about it. If there’s one thing I love about makeup, it’s its ability to shift a mood instantly—a swipe of colour can feel like escapism, optimism, even a little rebellion against grey skies. Traditionally, spring beauty leans into the nonchalant and understated. But this season the mood is slightly different. Makeup is becoming expressive again—just in a softer, looser way. Think blurred, French-girl lips, flushed skin, ‘saucy’ cheeks and the word ‘cloud’ being used to describe almost everything. And frankly, I’ll be damned if I’m waiting until the end of March to try them. If spring still feels a long way off, consider these looks a small act of seasonal optimism.

‘Pilates’ Glow

Radiant skin remains the starting point for almost every runway look this season, but the finish is evolving. Instead of ultra-reflective glass skin, the new complexion trend is softer and more believable—hydrated, fresh and slightly luminous, like you’ve just left a reformer class, or as makeup artist Bernicia Boateng likes to call it, ‘cloud skin’. “It’s a beautifully diffused complexion that still looks like skin, with gentle radiance. We saw a lot of this backstage across the Spring Summer 2026 shows, where makeup artists focused on creating a softly blurred base that felt effortless and breathable.”

The key, say makeup artists, is focusing on skin preparation; start with really hydrated skin and apply foundation in thin layers where you need it most rather than full coverage everywhere,” recommends Boateng. “For those who want longevity but still want a natural-looking base, I often sheer out foundation with a damp sponge or mix it with moisturiser to create a lighter veil on the skin while keeping its beautiful wear time.”

Blood-Rush Blush

Blush is central to looks this spring, but it’s not a nod towards blush blindness or ‘cold girl’ flush of previous seasons, it’s suacier. Think of Margot Robbie’s Kathy in that Wuthering Heights scene as a direct reference. Across the catwalk, colour was blended across cheeks like a wash of pigment, creating a diffused, watercolour effect. Makeup artists are calling it a ‘natural, elemental, running-in-the-meadows’ effect. “This is definitely the season to drape blush across the face for a romantic, slightly sun-kissed look,” says celebrity makeup artist Mickey Phillips. Instead of precise contour placement, Phillips suggests layering the colour until you get a soft, sun-kissed effect. “Use a damp sponge after application to make the blush look more like it's coming from under the skin,” says Phillips.

Blurred Lips

Spring’s lips are deliciously undefined and softly blurred, creating a plumper look that feels effortless rather than overdone. Chanel makeup artist Marco Antonio is a fan of this anti-precise approach, noting that “soft, diffused lips look more natural and effortless.” It also reflects his broader philosophy of “enhancing natural beauty while adding one standout feature,” with blurred lips serving as that subtle focal point. To achieve the effect, he suggests “tapping a small amount of concealer around the lip before applying the colour with my finger on the centre of the lip and blending outwards.” The result is subtle, diffused and highly wearable—think softly clouded edges paired with hydrated, pillowy lips.

Watercolour Lids

After years of neutral palettes, eyeshadow is getting playful again—but in sheer, painterly layers rather than bold graphic shapes. Pastels, mineral tones and soft pigments are blended across lids like watercolour paint, creating a dreamy wash of colour that feels light and modern. Celebrity makeup artist Christian Briceno recommends keeping the colour somewhat transparent for a more wearable effect. As he explains, “People want something lived in and expressive. Softly blended pastels or mineral tones across the lid look almost airbrushed. The finish stays diffused and cloudlike, never opaque.” For application, Briceno advises restraint and patience: “Pick one [colour] and build slowly with a fluffy brush, then diffuse edges until there’s no visible start or stop line. Keep the lower lash line clean or softly blended with the same tone.” If you’re working with a sheer cream blush, your most handy art tool—your fingers—will help tap, blend and softly diffuse the colour across the lid.

90s Smudge

Eyeliner is officially loosening its grip. Instead of sharp flicks and precise lines, the focus has shifted to smoked-out under-eyes that give the face a slightly undone, late-night feel. The mood nods to grunge and the supermodel era of beauty—so much so that Gucci’s show featured Kate Moss herself, reinforcing the throwback spirit. As Gucci Beauty put it, “The look, created by makeup artist Sam Visser, captures a raw, nostalgic glamour that feels straight out of the early 2000s nightlife scene.” The result is moody, imperfect and effortlessly cool. To make it feel right for spring, keep the remaining makeup light and fresh. Swap heavy black liner for a softer charcoal or taupe pencil and smudge it just along the lower lash line. Pair it with luminous skin, brushed-up brows and a sheer balm or gloss so the look feels airy and modern—more “slept-in chic” than full-on grunge.

Marie Claire UK reported live on the 98th Academy Awards' red carpet, and one beauty trend had us stop in our tracks; colour was everywhere, especially on the lids. Signalling a break from the "clean girl" era, stars sported some of the more dramatic hair and make-up looks we've seen in years, with lashings of graphic liner and dramatic side parts.

Bugonia star Emma Stone sported a bright white glittery eyeshadow with a thin line of black eyeliner, while Chase Infiniti, of One Battle After Another, sported a soft, smudgy lilac shadow that perfectly matched her Louis Vuitton gown.

Zoe Saldana also wore a rosy-nude shade swept across the lid.

It wasn't just eyeshadow that made a great return. Sinners' Jayme Lawson sported a bright cobalt blue on and around her bottom waterline. On the other end of the spectrum, Teyana Taylor, from One Battle After Another, wore lashings of graphic eyeliner that extended past her bottom lid to look like extra lashes.

Bright lips also made a return. Sentimental Value star, Renate Reinsve, wore a coral-red lip, while Hamnet's Jessie Buckley wore a softer, warm-toned red.

If you haven’t heard of the Nina Park makeup look… where have you actually been? Nina Park has been the makeup artist to know over the last year or so. After studying at L'École de Maquillage Fleurimon in Paris, she’s gone on to create some of the most talked-about beauty moments on red carpets and in editorials alike. From Addison Rae, Zoë Kravitz to Greta Lee, she’s worked her magic on some of the most famous faces in the world.

She gave us an unforgettable Emma Stone Golden Globes moment last month. She also delivered on Jessie Buckley’s 2026 award-season looks, so far. And of course, this has meant we’ve all been in detective mode ever since—hunting for product clues and dissecting techniques in a bid to recreate that signature 'effortless glam' look.

But here’s the thing: as someone with a darker skin tone, I have yet to see this look translated for deeper skin tones. It’s easy enough to follow the breadcrumbs of what little we know about her technique—she’s famously private about it—but a straight copy-and-paste doesn’t always land. Especially not when we’re working with different features, different undertones, different lip pigmentation. So I went to the pros. Because if we’re all having a slice of the Nina Park pie, it needs to work for everyone.

What is the Nina Park makeup look?

If you asked me to define the Nina Park look, I’m not sure I could neatly package it into one sentence. It’s perfectly done but undone. Effortlessly natural yet undeniably glam. I think that’s the appeal—it’s that “your face, but better” aesthetic that looks deceptively simple to achieve.

“Once you take a closer look, you realise the magic behind each minuscule detail. How the eyebrows are groomed to perfection, the cheeks are just the right amount of flushed and the lips will have you rummaging through your own makeup bag checking if you have a similar shade. She’s made beauty exciting,” shares makeup artist Aaminah Omar Saeed.

The pièce de résistance? The lips. Pouty, soft-focus and fluffy. Not the classic, sharp statement lip and definitely not the clean-girl wash of gloss. This feels like a refreshing change. Dubbed as the “the Nina Park lip.” “A halo lip is about softness and dimension rather than strict placement,” says makeup artist Emily Wood. “It’s flattering because it works with how light naturally hits the face. Keeping depth around the lips while allowing the centre to stay lighter makes the lips look fuller, rounder and more balanced. There are no harsh edges, so nothing feels heavy or overdone. The halo effect gives the illusion of volume without needing to heavily contour or box the lips in.”

The Nina Park lip look for darker skin tones

And while it sounds technical, it really is quite simple. All you need is a lip liner slightly deeper than your natural lip tone, a lipstick close to your actual lip shade, and a fluffy lip brush, these are the non-negotiables. The real challenge, especially for darker skin tones and those of us with more pigmented lips, is finding a deep brown liner that actually compliments our complexions and doesn’t leave us looking ashy. I swear by the Make Up For Ever Artist Pencil in Limitless Brown is elite (also the one SZA has been reported to use) — as well as the Makeup Revolution IRL Filter Finish Lip Definer in Americano Brown, the Rhode Lip Liner in Move, and the KHJ Brand Precision Sculpture Stylo in Carve and Forgo. The shades can look intimidating at first glance, but once blended out they create beautifully contoured lips without a trace of grey. It is overwhelming, there is so much and where do you start, Emily recommends, “For deeper skin tones, rich browns, chocolates and caramels with a slightly lighter centre look incredible.”

Once you’re over the hurdle of choosing your liner, application is the easy part. Line along your natural lip shape, focus on the fullest areas, to achieve that plump look but skip the dramatic over-lining. Then use your fluffy brush to blur the edges until the edges are soft and there are no harsh lines in sight. Apply your lip colour mainly around the outer areas and blend it into the liner, keeping the centre lighter with minimal product. Finish with a touch of gloss or balm tapped right into the middle for that soft, pillowy effect. “The key is blending. The less perfect it looks, the better it usually is,” Emily adds.

The Nina Park glow on darker skin tones

Now, let’s talk about the skin. Because honestly, I’m convinced there’s some magic involved. How does Nina Park consistently deliver skin that looks effortless, but also… immaculate, finish? I’ve deep-dived into her socials and interviews and she gives away nothing. But what we do know is this: every great base starts with even greater skin prep. Take a closer look and you’ll notice the common denominator—plump, hydrated, glowing skin.

Find skincare that works for your skin type and doesn’t fight your makeup. The biggest mistake? Layering on too much, which only leads to pilling, and makeup slipping and sliding everywhere. Keep the layers light. Let each one dry down properly before adding more; it makes all the difference.

When it comes to base, keep it light. “I would definitely recommend a lightweight foundation like the NARS Light Reflecting Foundation or a skin tint like the Lisa Eldridge Enhancing Skin Tint,” shares makeup artist Cat Veiga. Another top tip: celebrity makeup artist Katie Jane Hughes recommends priming your brush with foundation before taking it to your face for a more seamless, natural finish. This has become my preferred method, and it genuinely gets me closer to that Nina Park effect, at least I think. I adore the Kylie Cosmetics skin tint for coverage that doesn’t look or feel heavy—very Nina Park-coded, in my opinion.

And of course, that luminous glow is key to the Nina Park look, Amina’s trick is “for anyone with a deeper completion I would recommend keeping your base as luminous as possible, look in the mirror after applying a moisturiser and wherever the light is bouncing off is where you want to apply your highlighter and concealer.” Noted.

Blush, brows and contour—everything follows the same rule: natural, natural, natural, but enhanced. The goal is a soft-focus, velvety finish that doesn’t look flat or heavy. That means opting for creams and liquids over powders wherever possible. For deeper skin tones, shade choice is everything. Think peachy-warm flushes that actually show up. Rhode’s Toasted Teddy, Refy Cream Blush in Rust, PATRICK TA Major Headlines - Double-Take Cream + Powder Blush Duo in She's So LA, are gorgeous examples of that natural flash that shows up really beautifully on darker skin tones. SimiHaze Beauty and Saie bronzers work well for anyone with darker skin tones, without looking ashy.

The takeaway? Nothing should look painted onto your face. Everything should feel like an extension of your face. Yes that’s easier said than done but the Nina Park effect isn’t about transformation. It’s about working with your features so you still look like you, just an enhanced version. And honestly, that’s probably why it’s become such a hit, that and the fact that it’s absolutely stunning makeup.

Estée Lauder Double Wear Foundation needs little introduction. Since its launch in 1997, the long-wear, oil-free formula has earned cult status—a mainstay in professional makeup artists’ kits and everyday routines alike. It was also among the first complexion launches to offer a truly extensive shade range, catering to a broad spectrum of skin tones and undertones.

Over the years, the Double Wear franchise has expanded to include concealer, primer and lip products, each promising the same unwavering staying power. But it’s the original foundation that remains the hero. For me, it’s the formula I return to when I need coverage I can rely on—the kind that sees me through long days, late nights and everything in between. I’ll often sheer it out with moisturiser for added luminosity, but its signature full-coverage finish has always been the safety net in my makeup bag.

This month, Estée Lauder unveiled a much-anticipated reformulation, six years in the making. The updated texture is more fluid and blendable, designed to deliver a more dimensional, buildable satin finish rather than the flat matte of the original. As a diehard fan—and someone whose T-zone makes its presence known by midday—I approached the launch with cautious loyalty. Other members of the Marie Claire beauty team, however, were intrigued by the promise of the same long-wear performance with a fresher, glowier edge. So, naturally, we put it to the test.

Estée Lauder Double Wear Foundation Review: How We Tested

The Marie Claire UK beauty team takes product testing seriously, with a commitment to delivering accurate, honest and genuinely helpful reviews for our readers. To test Estée Lauder Double Wear Foundation, each editor applied the formula to clean skin, without any other makeup underneath or over the top. We assessed the shade range, ease of application and blend, coverage levels, how it wore throughout the day, and our overall impressions.

The Reformulation: What's Changed?

The original formula:

• Medium-to-full coverage
• Matte finish
• 8-hour oil control
• 60 shades

The new formula:

• More lightweight, buildable coverage
• Satin finish
• 36-hour oil control
• Same 60 shades

The Formula

The new Double Wear Stay-in-Place foundation has been reformulated for a more modern, dimensional matte finish that looks like skin, rather than foundation. It offers medium-to-full, buildable coverage, with the updated texture designed to be more fluid and blendable, making it easier to blur out uneven tones, visible pores and conceal breakouts without feeling heavy or looking cakey.

The formula is powered by new Polymer Mesh Matrix Technology—the brand's breathable system that flexes with the skin for transfer-proof, waterproof coverage that resists sweat, heat and humidity. Each drop contains billions of colour-treated micro-pigments designed to stay stable throughout the day, ensuring the shade remains true from morning to night.

It also has increased its old control capabilities from eight hours, to 36-hours and 72-hour moisture maintenance, working to balance skin over time thanks to Estée Lauder’s Double Balancing Complex, featuring AlgaNiacin™ (a blend of glycerin and hyaluronic acid delivers lasting hydration, while niacinamide and brown algae extract help regulate excess oil) with visible reductions in sebum over four weeks. Pretty impressive.

The Shades

Double Wear has always stood out for its shade offering, being on of the first brands on the market to cater to a vast range of skin tones and undertones. The reformulation is backed by more than 15 years of Colour Capture Technology to deliver a precise, true-to-skin match, with colour-treated micro-pigments for an even more dimensional finish.

It's all down to a proprietary algorithm that maps an extensive global dataset of skin tone measurements to corresponding shades. The development process includes multiple rounds of testing on real consumers across every depth and undertone, with more than 14,000 skin tone measurements taken from thousands of people across five continents to validate accuracy on real skin.

Each shade required up to 50 hours to craft, with scientists carefully calibrating pigment blends to achieve exacting balance and authenticity. The new Double Wear Stay-in-Place is available in 60 tailored shades, spanning 10 intensity levels and three undertones, reinforcing its reputation as one of the most comprehensive complexion ranges on the market.

The Verdict

Lottie Winter, Beauty Director

"Part of what I’ve always loved about the original Double Wear is just how matte it is. For me, that finish is a starting point. If I need full, unwavering coverage, I wear it neat; if I want more luminosity, I’ll sheer it out with moisturiser. So, I was nervous that a more fluid reformulation might compromise that bulletproof reliability.

On first application, the added ‘stretch’ and the immediate luminosity took me by surprise. It felt distinctly different—lighter, more pliable and glowier than before.

But then, within a couple of minutes, the formula dried down to a truly budge-proof finish, yet retained a subtle, lit-from-within radiance that made skin look fresh rather than flat. Applied all over with just my fingers, it blurred breakouts, dark circles and redness so effectively that I skipped concealer entirely.

My shade is 2N1—a neutral undertone that’s perfect for my winter skin (I go slightly deeper in summer to match a tan). The shade offering has always impressed me, and I’ve often felt the brand doesn’t receive quite enough credit for just how comprehensive and nuanced it really is.

Most importantly for me, it lasted. From morning meetings to late-afternoon screen time, the finish stayed intact without the need for touch-ups or extra T-zone blotting. I didn’t think I could love Double Wear more than I already did—and yet, this feels like the grown-up evolution of a classic. The same reliability, just with a little more light.”

Katie Thomas, Senior Beauty Editor

"I haven't worn foundation in years. My base of choice is either a sheer skin tint or a hydrating tinted moisturiser—glowy and lightweight formulas for the win. So, when I was tasked with testing out the newly reformulated Double Wear—a foundation that I've deemed too heavy (and dare I say it, chalky) in the past—I admit I had already made up my mind. However, from the first swipe of my foundation brush, I knew that the 2026 version of one of the UK's most beloved foundations was different.

I'd used the brand's online shade matching tool, which shows you your ideal shade, one lighter, one warmer and a shade darker, and I was incredibly impressed with how accurate it was. I applied it to my the middle of my face, where I get most of my redness, and it was as though I had used a FaceTune brush. Previously, I'd found the old formula would leave a dense layer of product across my cheek, the new version is akin to my skin tints—featherweight and glowy. Even though the brand calls it a matte finish, I found it more radiant than not. It blended beautifully, never settling in dry patches or rough texture, and gave me that 'my skin, but better' look. I might just be a foundation girl after all."

Nessa Humayun, Beauty Editor

“I have never worn full coverage foundation, so I was a little hesitant when it came to Estee Lauder’s iconic Double Wear foundation, which is of course, famously high coverage. I was pleasantly surprised, however—it didn’t leave me looking flat, and this new formula is a lot more glowy, so you’re able to see skin beneath it, which I love. I applied it with a damp beauty blender, which helped sheer it out to my desired coverage. I like that it can also function as concealer in a pinch too. I think everyone can wear (and love) Double Wear, it’s just about how you apply it; it really is versatile.”