Sleepmaxxing, a term that's amassed millions of views across TikTok, promises to transform everything from your productivity and mood to your lifespan and skin health. As the name suggests, it involves optimising what we all spend around a third of our lives doing: sleeping.

When I first heard about sleepmaxxing, I dismissed it as another wellness trend overcomplicating something we do without thinking, and then perimenopause reared its head and, well, desperation had me rethinking all things sleep. As someone who never really had an issue sleeping (I just liked a lot of it), I found the unpredictable night sweats that woke me up at all hours of the night, the inability to fall back asleep as easily as I once did, and the nighttime anxiety that saw me lying in bed for hours unable to sleep – all left me feeling exhausted come morning. But I didn’t only feel rough; I looked rough too.

My skin was drier, duller and more reactive. Hormonal breakouts lingered for longer, redness became harder to calm, and that healthy glow I used to sport seemed to disappear overnight. My instinct was to switch up my skincare and book in for some hardcore aesthetic treatments, but as I started to research how best to get my glow back, I realised ‘beauty sleep’ isn’t just a phrase.

The Science of Sleepmaxxing

We may think of sleep as relaxing ‘downtime’, but our bodies are hard at work while we’re catching zzz’s. "All functions that have to do with regeneration, healing, growing and system maintenance happen while we sleep. This applies to all body systems, think, muscle growth, wound healing, immune modulation and brain programming. It is as fundamental a function as eating and breathing," reveals consultant neurologist and sleep physician at longevity hospital Reborne, Dr Oliver Bernath.

Poor sleep usually shows up first as sleepiness, reduced focus, lower performance and a shorter temper. “Over time, if it continues, it can also affect appetite, immune function and raise cardiovascular and metabolic risk. In simple terms, poor sleep doesn't just make you tired; it makes it harder for both your body and mind to function well," says Oura Senior Director of Product Science, Mari Karsikas.

We cycle through light sleep, deep slow-wave sleep and REM (rapid eye movement) sleep several times each night, with each stage performing a different role. "Light sleep is no less important than deep sleep," says Bernath. "It's simply easier to wake someone from it. Deep sleep seems to have more to do with system maintenance of vital functions, while REM sleep has more to do with creativity and new learning, and light sleep contributes to memory formation and learning," he explains.

But when it comes to our skin, deep sleep is key. “Growth hormone secretion peaks in the first few hours of deep sleep, and this is what drives skin cell turnover and collagen production. Blood flow to the skin also increases, delivering more oxygen and nutrients to support that repair work.

Meanwhile, cortisol—which breaks down collagen and increases oil production and inflammation when chronically elevated—is naturally at its lowest during deep sleep. This means that for some hours the skin can focus on rebuilding without having to defend itself at the same time,” reveals aesthetic doctor, Alicia Gonzalez-Fernandez.

However, despite the fact that when sleep is disrupted the brain prioritises deep sleep, there’s only so much of it that you can get if you’re not asleep for long enough, says Bernath. That’s why, according to Gonzalez-Fernandez, “people with consistently poor sleep show significantly more visible signs of skin ageing and conditions like acne and hyperpigmentation than good sleepers. And while skincare can support the skin's environment, it can’t replace the growth hormone release and collagen synthesis that happens during deep sleep."

With this in mind, I wondered if consistent ‘good’ sleep would translate into healthier skin and rid me of my skin woes? And there was only one way to find out, so I spent six months putting the most popular sleepmaxxing hacks to the test; here’s how it went…

The Benefits of Sleep Tracking

While I know health trackers can trigger anxiety and perfectionism, I am a big fan of data. So, I was willing to run the risk of getting a little addicted to my sleep scores if it meant I’d get a better understanding of my perimenopause symptoms and how they were impacting my sleep patterns.

The Oura Health & Fitness Tracker Smart Ring, from £229.99, felt like the best option for this, not only does it monitor how long you sleep, it tracks the quality and architecture of your sleep too, measuring how much time you spend awake, in light sleep, deep sleep and REM sleep, alongside metrics such as your resting heart rate, heart rate variability (HRV), respiratory rate, body temperature and overnight movement to generate a daily Sleep Score and Readiness Score. Worn on your finger, where, according to Oura, blood flow can be measured more accurately than at the wrist, the ring combines these physiological signals to build a detailed picture of how well you've recovered overnight.

I discovered very quickly that on the nights I had woken up drenched in sweat, I experienced more fragmented sleep, and I generally slept less too. And while knowing how this perimenopause symptom impacted my sleep didn’t mean I knew how to stop it from happening, it did mean the Oura AI could tell me when I typically experienced night sweats, which meant I could pre-empt them and plan accordingly – think keeping my room cool, ditching my duvet, wearing breathable clothes and sleeping on top of a towel. Over time this meant I sweated less and slept better.

Another interesting insight the ring gave me was my chronotype, a measure of my body's natural sleep-wake preference. Rather than simply telling me to go to bed earlier, it identified that I’m an evening type, confirming that my body naturally prefers a later bedtime. It was surprisingly reassuring because I’ve had periods when I’ve forced myself to go to bed early, only to twiddle my thumbs for hours and feel like a failure for not being able to sleep before midnight.

"Society tends to favour morning people. But humans evolved with different chronotypes. Meaning sleep before midnight isn't automatically better for everyone. Consistency, getting enough sleep, and aligning with your own circadian rhythm matters more," reveals Karsikas. Bernath agrees, warning that, "the most important thing is to keep the 24-hour body clock stable. Getting up at the same time every morning, followed by exposure to bright light, is the most important change people can make." So, instead of feeding my anxiety, my Oura Ring also helped me implement a consistent time for bed and for waking up, which dramatically improved my sleep and readiness scores.

Mouth Taping Isn't For Everyone

One of the most talked about sleepmaxxing trends has to be mouth taping. The theory is that encouraging nasal breathing may reduce snoring and improve sleep quality. "If you breathe through the mouth, you get a dry mouth, a higher risk of sore throats and infections too," explains Bernath. Not only that, but mouth breathing pushes the jaw and tongue further back, increasing the risk of obstructive sleep apnoea, which, according to Bernath, is “a hugely underdiagnosed epidemic.” It occurs when the muscles in the throat relax too much during sleep, causing the airway to repeatedly narrow or collapse. “Each time this happens, the brain briefly wakes the person to reopen the airway, fragmenting sleep, often without them realising it. This cycle repeats throughout the night, often leaving people feeling tired despite spending enough time in bed,” adds Bernath.

I wasn’t sure I actually slept with my mouth open but I gave mouth taping a go just in case. However, I didn’t last long as it felt restrictive having my mouth taped shut, and by morning I’d wake up with it stuck to my sheet, having removed it in the night. The reason I kept taking it off could lie in the fact that for those of us with deviated septums (when the bone separating your nostrils is off centre), “mouth taping may not succeed, as the brain generally doesn't like breathing through a nostril that's too narrow," reveals Bernath. So, while he agrees it can be helpful, it only works if your anatomy allows for it.

Magnesium Boost

Oftentimes it’s hard to know if your supplements are working, especially if you’re taking a fair few. But I wasn’t taking anything at all when I added a dose of magnesium into my nightly wind-down routine. So, when I started noticing an improvement in my sleep, I was convinced that it was playing a major role.

“Magnesium is an essential mineral that helps regulate hundreds of processes throughout the body, including those involved in relaxing the nervous system, muscle function and preparing the body for sleep. It’s not a sleeping pill, but it does help the body to relax, which makes it easier to fall asleep,” explains Bernath. Not all forms of magnesium work in the same way, so for sleep it’s best to take magnesium (bis)glycinate as it combines magnesium with the amino acid glycine, which has calming properties of its own, and is less likely to cause digestive side effects than forms such as magnesium oxide or citrate.

I alternated between Elle Sera Magnesium Bisglycinate, from £28 and Artah Essential Magnesium, from £16.80, throughout my experiment. It didn't stop my night sweats or suddenly give me eight uninterrupted hours of sleep, but my Oura ring confirmed I was falling asleep quicker when taking it and I attribute that to how well it helped quieten my mental chatter at bedtime. I felt calmer, less physically restless and generally found it easier to drift off and stay asleep—I don’t go to bed without it now.

Skincare Designed for Sleep

Technically aligning your skincare with your body’s natural nighttime functions isn’t exactly sleepmaxxing, but rather skinmaxxing. However, I knew that by using what I’ve learnt about what’s happening to my skin while I sleep and then supporting my skin with some skincare switches, it would ultimately help me get my clear, even-toned, glowing complexion back faster.

“When deep sleep is consistently cut short, collagen production slows, cell renewal slows, and the skin's ability to repair daily micro-damage from UV or pollution falls behind. It's one of the reasons chronic poor sleep ages skin faster than almost any other lifestyle factor,” says Gonzalez-Fernandez. Add the impact on hormonal regulation that poor sleep has and this all translates into dull, dehydrated, pigmented, spotty, and wrinkled skin.

Gonzalez-Fernandez recommends retinoids, vitamin C, peptides, BHAs, AHAs, SPF and barrier repair actives like ceramides. At night, I kept things simple; I double-cleansed with the PCA Face Wash Oily/Problem, £39, which removes dirt, makeup, and excess oil while still being gentle on my barrier. I followed that with the Klira Special, from £59, a personalised prescription retinoid that’s combined with other actives to boost collagen production and speed up cell turnover. Come morning, I cleansed with the niacinamide-packed Vichy Fresh Cleansing Gel, £14, and followed this with the Sachi Skin Triphala Pigmentation Corrector, £90, to help even out my skin and get my glow back, thanks to anti-inflammatory and antibacterial Triphala, plus pigment-busting niacinamide and tranexamic acid. I then topped that with the Klira The Dayscript, from £66, which offers a full eight hours of sun protection, combined with additional personalised actives to support skin health. Finally, once a week I use the hydrating Kama Vanasara Rose Hydrating Mask, £46, and the Revision Triple Action Exfoliator, £80, to smooth, soften and brighten my skin.

The Verdict

So, did sleepmaxxing actually improve my skin? For me, the answer has to be a resounding yes. It took time, but the lines I’d developed around my eyes disappeared—note I think they were from dehydration rather than collagen loss, since my routine was already pretty stacked in collagen-boosting actives. The redness dissipated, my skin tone was more even, my skin was no longer as oily, and breakouts reduced in number and frequency.

I looked so much better, and I felt better too. I love that my Oura ring keeps me in the know regarding all things sleep, and I’m thrilled that adding magnesium to my routine has helped me doze off quicker.

But I can absolutely see why both Bernath and Oura believe the most important element of getting good sleep (and enough of it) is consistent timing—because sleeping at around the same time every night and waking up at the same time every morning (in accordance with my chronotype) has changed the game when it comes to my sleep and my skin.

I've been contending with acne for most of my life, which has led me to discover the exact skincare that I can trust not to cause breakouts. That includes SPF for acne—because a product that I use on my face daily has to be one that my complexion agrees with. Not to mention, applying SPF daily can prevent dark spots and hyperpigmentation that can be left behind after a breakout.

Although my skin is now much clearer than it used to be, it only takes one misstep for my chin to flare up with whiteheads and painful red bumps under the skin. Perfecting my skincare routine for acne has made the world of difference, so much so that I'm very reluctant to experiment with new products that could hinder my progress.

However, with gentle experimenting over the years, I've managed to curate a list of sunscreens that keep me safe from the sun without causing any breakouts. Whilst I'm confident in recommending the following SPFs, I always suggest doing a patch test on a small area of the face and introducing a new product gradually (and only one new product at a time) to ensure it won't create any issues for your skin type.

From oil control formulas to nourishing finishes to improve the skin barrier, these are my tried and tested favourites for acne-prone skin.

How We Test

The Marie Claire UK team takes product testing seriously, with a commitment to delivering accurate, honest and genuinely helpful reviews for our readers. For this piece, I tested each SPF for a minimum of one week, though some I've used for far longer. I assessed texture, absorption, residue and how each formula performed under makeup, checking in throughout the day for shine and general skin behaviour. At the end of each week, I looked for any increase in congestion or breakouts compared with my usual baseline.

The Best SPFs for Acne

• Best everyday: La Roche Posay, £17.60 at LookFantastic (save 20%)
• Best oil control: SkinCeuticals, £40 at LookFantastic (save 20%)
• Most affordable: CeraVe, £17.90 at Boots
• Most hydrating: Aesop, £47 at Space NK
• Best for severe acne: Dr Sam's, £31 at Sephora
• Best SPF primer: Charlotte Tilbury, £42 at Sephora
• Best lightweight: Beauty Pie, £29 at Beauty Pie

Best everyday formula

La Roche-Posay almost single-handedly saw me through my severely acne-riddled teenage years, and it was the first brand that made a noticeable difference to my breakouts and complexion. I've trusted the products for years, and this SPF is one of my top picks for anyone acne-prone. It's designed for oily skin types, including skin prone to blemishes and sensitivity, with a mattifying effect that will prevent shininess throughout the day. It has a very watery, milky formula that turns invisible on the skin and feels weightless too. Despite being matte, it doesn't feel at all drying or chalky on the skin, and it provides a smoothing base for makeup application on top. It's a true all-rounder for acne-prone skin with impressive SPF 50.

Best oil control

SkinCeuticals has slowly but surely become one of my holy grail brands. Yes, the products are on the pricier side, but I've yet to encounter one that isn't worth every penny. This SPF has a thicker formula more like a mineral sunscreen, but it's still extremely easy to blend in and it doesn't leave a white cast. It feels more matte than the La-Roche Posay SPF, both to apply and on the skin, but it still sits comfortably and doesn't dry me out even though my skin isn't excessively oily. It works wonders at keeping shine at bay, and it's perfect for humid weather and preventing makeup from sliding around on the face. If you have particularly oily acne-prone skin, this will make a very noticeable difference to your complexion.

Most affordable

Although this SPF is designed with oily skin in mind, it's also suitable for normal skin and isn't excessively mattifying. It has a smooth, milky formula that's lightweight, breathable, and fast-absorbing for an invisible finish that primes the skin for makeup. One of my favourite things about this SPF is that it contains niacinamide, which has always worked brilliantly for preventing breakouts in my skin. It keeps oil to a minimum all day and won't clog pores either.

Most hydrating

Another SPF containing niacinamide, Aesop's lotion formula is both hydrating and nourishing. It's my top recommendation if your skin needs some TLC due to any tightness or discomfort, particularly if you apply any drying nighttime skincare for spots. It functions just like a regular day moisturiser with the addition of sun protection, but it doesn't leave the skin greasy or shiny. NB: this SPF isn't fragrance-free, so if you don't respond well to fragrance, you may want to try another formula. However, it has never caused me to break out or have any irritation.

Best for severe acne

If you have very acne-prone skin that needs a lot of care and attention, Dr Sam's Daily Sunscreen is a foolproof option. It's specifically designed for blemish-prone skin, with a soft-focus primer-like finish that applies like a moisturiser. It's fragrance-free, non-comedogenic, and formulated with niacinamide to brighten and boost the skin. It's an extremely minimalist SPF suitable for all skin types, and it perfectly balances sun protection with a comfortable feel that provides a skin-like finish with no added shine. It's a true all-rounder that will work for anyone with acne-prone skin.

Best SPF primer

For my skin, I've found that less is more—particularly in the daytime. The best way to keep my acne at bay is not going overboard under my makeup, and Charlotte Tilbury's SPF 50 primer offers exactly that. It kills two birds with one stone with priming and sun protection, as well as providing pollution defence to further halt skin stressors that can cause breakouts. It has a very subtle tint that leaves the skin with a beautiful glow and a weightless feel that's comfortable on the face. It also hydrates without a shiny finish, which makes for smooth makeup application.

Best lightweight SPF

The clue is in the name with Beauty Pie's SPF 50: it's a truly invisible, lightweight, watery formula that blends in with minimal effort. I've used it for years, and it has never failed me or caused blemishes. It's completely non-greasy and also acts as a primer, so you can expect a skin-like finish with natural radiance and no shine. The advanced UV filters also work to fight sunlight-induced inflammation, which can make red, painful breakouts less troublesome. With no white cast, it's suitable for all skin tones and requires minimal blending to sink in.

We can all remember what got us into collagen. Maybe it was the edible gummies or liquid gold drinks marketed to us on social media, or perhaps the topical serums that promised rejuvenation from the outside in. Injectable-wise, biostimulators developed in recent years – including Sculptra and Radiesse – are said to restore our collagen levels over time in a more comprehensive way, too. But it seems we’re never quite satisfied, always looking for the next best thing to restore our levels for youth and bounce.

Case in point: human tissue-derived treatments (known as human Acellular Dermal Matrix, or hADM), which are reportedly growing rapidly in South Korea. These use a collagen-rich 'extracellular matrix' derived from human skin, which is then formulated into an injectable for areas of the face, such as under the eyes.

But whose skin is the collagen used in these treatments coming from? Is it safe? And above that, is it ethical? There are plenty of unknowns when it comes to this controversial new procedure, not least what it says about our relationship with regenerative aesthetics and where it's headed in future.

Here's what you need to know, including whether this is set to appear in the UK any time soon.

What are 'human collagen treatments', and how do they work?

"Collagen is the main structural protein in our skin. It is what keeps it firm and bouncy, and it is the thing that naturally drops off as we age, which is why we start to see fine lines, crepiness, sagging and a loss of volume," explains Dr Christine Hall, Aesthetic Doctor at Taktouk Clinic and K-beauty expert. The aim of most collagen-based injectables, therefore, is to restore collagen levels for youth, longevity and overall skin health.

Treatments such as Elravie RE2O are reportedly set to be the next generation of regenerative collagen-stimulating procedures—notably because they use a collagen-rich 'extracellular matrix' derived from real human skin rather than from animals or synthetic, lab-grown alternatives. Usually the process goes something like this: skin is donated (usually from screened deceased donors), living cells are removed, DNA, blood vessels and other cellular material are removed, and what's left becomes an 'extracellular matrix' (ECM) that, once sterilised and ground into smaller particles, can be injected. The ECM is made up of collagen, elastin, proteins, and proteoglycans.

Lee Joon, MD, PhD, Medical Director at DOD Dermatology Clinic performs the treatment at his clinic in Seoul. He notes that for this procedure, "the mechanism is biostimulation, not volumising—it recruits host fibroblasts and induces neocollagenesis rather than merely filling space." This means results are focused on skin health and longevity rather than creating volume as filler does. While he makes clear that this kind of treatment isn't exactly 'replacing' filler (they do different things, after all), there's been a clear uptake in interest: "At our own clinic, usage has been climbing sharply relative to other skin boosters—for improving skin texture, fine lines, and pore refinement, and for softening dark circles."

Are these actually safe (or ethical)?

Here's where things get blurred, both in terms of safety and ethical implications.

To begin, it's important to note that human tissue-derived ECM treatments, such as Elravie RE2O, are very new to the market and not yet approved in many countries (primarily due to regulatory reasons). There have been very few human studies conducted so far on the safety and efficacy of the approach, with this paper being the most notable. Often referred to as the 'split-face' study, this study had 20 participants receive an injectable human collagen treatment on one side of their face and hyaluronic acid (HA) on the other. Results showed that the collagen-treated side improved skin across several metrics, including elasticity, hydration, and barrier function, compared with the HA-treated side.

That said, this experiment involved a very small cohort, and it only followed participants for 20 weeks following their procedures, meaning we don't yet have long-term data to support the narrative that this could be some 'game-changer' in injectables. And, one of the study's authors served as an advisor on the development of Elravie Re2O at the parent company, L&C Bio Co., Ltd.

There are also ethical considerations regarding these kinds of treatments. Korean classification rules mean products derived from donated human tissue often sit in something of a regulatory grey area. Dr Lee Joon says: "In Korea, these products are classified as 'human tissue,' not medical devices. Human tissue can be supplied to clinics without per-product approval from the Ministry of Food and Drug Safety (MFDS), whereas a medical device requires product-specific approval for its intended use and indications. This classification gap explains both the rapid spread and the current controversy."

For donors, too, there is the question of whether they knew (or fully understood) that their future skin donation could include cosmetic use—although L&C Bio’s chairman has previously said that Elravie RE20 uses only overseas donated human tissue for which consent for cosmetic use has been obtained.

However, as more ECM products enter the market, there have been issues with clarity and communication in some clinics. "There is a duty to disclose the raw-material origin, yet some clinics use euphemisms ('premium collagen')," says Dr Lee Joon, which can understandably feel confusing, unclear, and not fully truthful.

Why are they becoming so popular in South Korea?

The rise in popularity of collagen treatments is generally linked to the way aesthetics is heading as a whole: there's a focus on regeneration and skin health, rather than on obvious filling or volume. But now, new technologies and innovations are advancing alongside this desire for more effective regenerative treatments.

In Korea, demand for collagen regeneration has, in many cases, overtaken that for more 'traditional' injectable treatments such as hyaluronic acid fillers. Dr Lee Joon adds that "fatigue with filler complications" plus a sense of “human-derived = natural” has resulted in a "K-beauty premium narrative" for these newer treatments.

Could these treatments be coming to the UK?

As mentioned, this is still an area of cosmetic aesthetics that is massively in its infancy, even over in South Korea, where it's being used. It's also been a rather controversial point of contention for the medical world, so there are plenty of barriers for these kinds of treatments to overcome before they can become available in the UK (or if they ever will).

"This is a complex area, especially concerning the regulatory pathway for treatments involving donated human tissue/skin products for injectables in the UK, as they would need to go through rigorous assessment with the MHRA [Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency] as they'll be classified as medicines," comments Kam Kaur from The Cosmetic Regulator. "I don't see the MHRA approving human tissue/skin products for use in the UK, though, so any clinic offering this is likely to be non-compliant."

"The UK faces a much higher bar under the HTA (Human Tissue Authority) and MHRA for cadaver-derived tissue used in cosmetic injection," agrees Dr Lee Joon. "Expect rhCollagen, PLLA, PDRN, and exosome biostimulators to lead in the UK/EU instead."

As the doctor notes, there are plenty of other commonly used (and potentially less controversial) collagen-stimulating treatments you can have here. These include biostimulators such as polynucleotides, Sculptra, and Radiesse, as well as radiofrequency approaches such as Morpheus8. Also evolving is recombinant collagen, which is produced in a lab using genetically engineered cells rather than extracted from human or animal tissue. For many, this may feel like a safer, more ethical injectable alternative for the future.

You should always choose a qualified practitioner who is recommended and has expertise and experience in the chosen treatment.

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

Whilst there is plenty to love about the summer months, there are also several downsides that make me resent spending more time in my swimming costume. Namely, contending with ingrown hairs and KP bumps, alongside being much sweatier than usual. However, glycolic acid has quickly become the hero multi-use product to tackle almost every summer skin woe you could think of.

"Glycolic acid is an alpha hydroxy acid (AHA) derived from sugar cane," explains Dr Nora Jaafar, Dermatological doctor. "It exfoliates by dissolving the bonds between dead skin cells, helping to improve skin texture, brightness and overall smoothness."

By gently chemically exfoliating, it directly targets the causes of keratosis pilaris, prevents ingrown hairs, and can even lower the skin's pH which can stop odour-causing bacteria growing. Here's what the experts want you to know about using glycolic acid this summer, and how to do so safely.

Why is glycolic acid so popular?

"It's one of the most effective ingredients for improving skin texture, smoothing rough patches and giving the skin a brighter, healthier appearance," explains Dr Anna Andrienko, Dermatologist & Aesthetic Doctor at Dr Ducu Clinics. This, coupled with its gentle formula, make it a brilliant multi-tasker that can suit most skin types.

Is glycolic acid good for dry, rough skin?

"Glycolic acid is excellent for areas like the elbows, knees and heels where dead skin can build up," says Dr Andrienko. "By gently exfoliating the surface, it helps smooth roughness and allows moisturisers to penetrate more effectively."

But it's important not to go overboard with it, particularly if it's new to your routine. "Overuse can worsen dryness, so it should always be paired with a good moisturiser," says Dr Nora.

Can it help keratosis pilaris (KP)?

"Glycolic acid helps break down the excess keratin that blocks hair follicles, reducing the rough bumps associated with keratosis pilaris. Consistent use is needed, as KP is a long-term genetic condition," explains Dr Nora. Although you shouldn't expect overnight results, you're likely to notice a big difference over time.

Does glycolic acid help with ingrown hairs?

"Glycolic acid can be very helpful for preventing ingrown hairs. By keeping the skin exfoliated, it reduces the likelihood of hairs becoming trapped beneath the surface. It's particularly useful on the legs, bikini line and underarms, but it shouldn't be used straight after shaving or waxing as this can cause irritation," says Dr Andrienko.

Moreover, "it may also help fade the dark marks left behind after ingrown hairs heal," explains Dr Nora. Although it isn't guaranteed to eradicate these problems completely, it can make a huge difference as a regular part of your routine.

Can glycolic acid help with body odour?

"Glycolic acid lowers the skin’s pH, making it a less favourable environment for odour-causing bacteria. While it’s not a replacement for deodorant, many people find it helps reduce underarm odour," says Dr Nora.

Dr Andrienko notes that "glycolic acid doesn't stop you sweating," but explains that "some people find it helps reduce odour when used on areas such as the underarms, but it should only be applied to healthy, unbroken skin and not immediately after shaving."

Is glycolic acid safe to use during summer?

"Glycolic acid can be used safely in summer as long as you wear a broad-spectrum SPF 30-50 every day. It can make skin more sensitive to UV light, so sun protection is essential," says Dr Nora.

Dr Andrienko agrees, noting that "it's best applied in the evening, and sunscreen should always be worn on exposed areas during the day. If you're spending prolonged periods in strong sunshine, it's sensible to reduce how often you use it to avoid irritation."

Who should avoid glycolic acid?

"Those with eczema, rosacea or a damaged skin barrier should use glycolic acid cautiously, as it can cause irritation. It’s best introduced gradually, starting once or twice a week," says Dr Nora.

Mistakes to avoid

Although it can be tempting to start slathering glycolic acid on your whole body, approach with caution. "One of the biggest mistakes is using glycolic acid too often or combining it with several other active ingredients, such as retinoids or strong exfoliating acids, in the same routine. This can damage the skin barrier and lead to redness, dryness and sensitivity. Start slowly, use it a few times a week, and increase frequency only if your skin tolerates it well," says Dr Andrienko.

Shop glycolic acid

An increasingly familiar scene is playing out on TikTok: a 20-something girl slathers her body in tan-accelerating oil, then lies out in peak sun. Next, the camera zooms in on her walnut-coloured tan and the stark outline of her bikini straps. What follows are remarks about the UV Index. “As soon as that UV Index starts hitting six and up, this is where I’m at,” says one TikToker, reclining on her sun lounger, a tub of Carroten in shot. “I’m roasting, and I love it; I love every minute of it. I have my little book with me, I’ve got my tanning gel, I’ve got my water, my phone’s on do not disturb. Life is good, man.” While another boasts, “A little burn goes a long way.” Welcome to Gen Z’s disturbing new world of ‘tanmaxxing’.

As the name suggests, the viral trend is all about maximising your deepest, darkest tan. It encourages you to use the UV Index, which measures the intensity of the sun’s rays, to find times when the risk of burning is highest. Some devotees are taking the trend even further by turning to Melanotan, an unlicensed synthetic peptide that mimics the hormone that stimulates melanin production. Marketed as a shortcut to a deeper tan with less sun exposure, it carries significant health risks and has been linked to the darkening of existing moles, the appearance of new moles and freckles, and other changes in skin pigmentation.

There’s an outcry from doctors and dermatologists, who call the trend “extremely dangerous”. The premise of tanmaxxing is, after all, to shun SPF in favour of deliberately exposing the skin to UV rays at their most powerful. “A tan is essentially your skin responding to injury,” says Dr Ahmed El Muntasar, a GP and aesthetics doctor. “When your skin is exposed to ultraviolet light, it produces more melanin (the pigment that gives skin its colour) in an attempt to protect the DNA within skin cells from further damage.”

Dr Brendan Khong, a medical and aesthetic doctor, says the long-term effects are deeply problematic. “Every deliberate tanning session, whether it’s ‘creating a base tan’ or a ‘filter-ready glow’, is banking DNA damage in skin cells,” he explains. “That damage doesn’t repair itself – it accumulates.”

It will, at best, manifest as premature ageing—wrinkles, pigmentation, loss of elasticity—and, at worst, cause skin cancer. Gen Z already knows that. Yet they’re tanmaxxing anyway. These are the same girls who raided Sephora for Drunk Elephant’s retinol and vitamin C serums, and whose slavish following of TikTok ‘skinfluencers’ turned the likes of Hyram Yarbro into a superstar. So what’s changed?

What’s driving the tanmaxxing trend?

There’s a fair amount to unpack here. Let’s start with how, in recent years, tan lines have gone from naff to sexy in popular culture. Singer Addison Rae proved the point by appearing in Perfect magazine under the headline “Addison Rae is Full-Hot” with the pale outline of her bikini etched onto nearly-naked, bronzed skin. Meanwhile, over on Instagram, the cool girls are making a case for sunburn blush, a technique where reddish-coloured blush is swept over the cheeks and bridge of the nose to look like you’ve spent too long in the sun.

It also leans into the controversial ‘looksmaxxing’ conversation, which endorses extreme measures for extreme results to maximise physical attractiveness, says Chelsea Mtada, a trends analyst, beauty consultant and founder of I.T Girl Intelligence.

Others believe that tanmaxxing is an act of rebellion, in much the same way that smoking is back in fashion and giving the booming wellness industry the middle finger. Dr Khong isn’t so sure. He believes the motivation for tanmaxxing runs much deeper. “Gen Z absolutely knows the skin cancer statistics—they have grown up with SPF campaigns and dermatologist content on their feeds,” he says. “But knowing a risk intellectually and feeling it emotionally are two different things, especially when the visible reward—tanned, sun-kissed, ‘snatched’ skin—is immediate and the consequences are decades away.”

Gen Z’s mindset post Covid may also play a part. “Gen Z came of age during a period defined by uncertainty and cancelled futures,” Dr Khong notes. “That has fed a broader cultural pull towards instant gratification—not just in tanning, but in how this generation approaches health generally. It’s less a conscious act of defiance and more that long-term consequences feel abstract compared to how a tan looks in a photo today.” This reflects the findings of the Canadian Dermatology Association into the disconnect between tanning behaviours and rising skin cancer rates among Gen Z. Research found that nearly 39% intentionally tanned during the previous year, 45% say it makes them feel more confident, and 37% say they look better in photos.

Much of its appeal also comes down to how a tan is perceived as the ultimate summer fantasy. “The Gen Z audience was never loyal,” says Mtada. "From clean girl to skinification, this was an audience that was always going to follow the lead of the algorithm. In 2026, bronzed bodies on Love Island and ‘Euro summer’ are the aspirational mood board.” During a cost-of-living crisis, a tan says “I can afford to go on holiday.” It’s also associated with looking slimmer, healthier and more attractive—“beauty standards that social media reinforces,” Dr Muntasar adds.

Much of this messaging comes from ‘tanfluencers’, who discuss the necessary steps to get a deep tan in much the same way people talk about their skincare routines. “Platforms like TikTok can normalise behaviour very quickly,” Dr Muntasar says. “When someone sees hundreds of videos promoting tanning as part of a beauty routine, the risks can start to feel distant or less important, particularly because skin cancer often develops years later, rather than immediately after sun exposure. Once something is labelled as ‘self-care’, people naturally become less cautious about it.”

And, last, but by no means least, there’s the psychology of a tan. For many people, a tan and a smattering of sunburn are associated with positive memories. Robyn, a 23-year-old social media manager, says: “I associate a tan with summer, with holidays, with feeling ‘glowy’—all things that make me feel happy and beautiful. I think tan lines look quite sexy, and the marketing around them as an accessory has definitely made an impression on me. Tanning as an adult also feels like a reclamation of my brown skin, which I used to hate seeing darken in the sun, afraid it would make me stand out more than I already did among my white friends.”

She goes on to say, “I do worry about my skin and have a lot of anxiety about it drying out or getting damaged while I tan. I always make sure my face and neck are slathered in a high-factor sunscreen, but I’m more careless with the rest of my body.”

Is there such thing as a 'healthy tan'?

The safe sun guidelines remain true: “Seek shade during peak UV hours; wear protective clothing, sunglasses and wide-brimmed hats where practical and avoid the temptation to use sunbeds,” says Dr Muntasar. But as an aesthetic, a tan needn’t be demonised—false tan can create beautifully sunkissed limbs, just without the damage.

And while the UV Index is a useful guide, some experts now say that you don't need to wear SPF if the UV index is 3 or under, unless you have a family history of melanoma, lots of moles or you’re using retinol. “Most international guidance recommends sun protection when the UV Index reaches 3 or above because that’s the point at which UV radiation becomes strong enough to cause skin damage with prolonged exposure,” Dr Muntasar says. “If you’re briefly walking from your house to your car on a winter morning with a UV Index of 1 or 2, the risk is obviously very different from lying in the midday sun during summer. Personally, I wear SPF every morning because it’s a simple habit that removes the guesswork.”

Tanmaxxing is the other extreme end of the spectrum. It’s also undoubtedly harmful, especially given that a 2025 survey by the American Academy of Dermatology found that half of Gen Z respondents had already got sunburnt, and most said they often forget to wear sunscreen.

There’s also an argument that suncare brands need to rethink their messaging. “Their communication has been explicit about the face and the neck, where selfies are the dominant way Gen Z consumers perceive themselves,” says Mtada. “That's where protection is guarded. But where brands haven't paid enough attention is protecting the body against the sun.”

I nursed my mum through three episodes of stage 4 skin cancer. I know first-hand how gruelling the treatment is: surgery, where large chunks of your flesh are sliced away, and immunotherapy drugs that can cause dangerously high fevers, possible organ damage and the top layer of your skin to painfully peel away. That is, if you’re lucky enough to live near an NHS hospital that offers the treatment. If not, prepare to fork out over £4K privately per infusion. I also know that treatment doesn’t always work. Surely no fleeting TikTok trend or hot girl summer is worth that.

When it comes to seasonally scented body care, I’m jumping in there headfirst. The moment June arrives, every product in my routine gets a warm-weather upgrade. And I mean all—shower gel, body lotion, body mist and even my deodorant. If it doesn't smell like summer, it's off the shelf.

Switching my scents with the seasons is one of the easiest ways to feel more connected to the time of year, whatever the weather is doing (January, I'm looking at you). And summer body care is particularly transportive: fresh citrus, creamy coconut, juicy fruits and salty sea air can make an ordinary morning routine feel like the start of a holiday, even if you're staying firmly at home.

The best part is that summer-inspired body care has become far more sophisticated in recent years. Gone are the days of sickly-sweet tropical scents; today's launches are fresher, more nuanced and undeniably elevated. Whether you gravitate towards sun-warmed citrus, creamy coconut or breezy coastal notes, these are my favourites.

Summer-Scented Body Washes

Summer-Scented Body Scrubs

Summer-Scented Body Oils

Summer-Scented Body Moisturisers

Summer-Scented Deodorants

Summer-Scented Body Mists

Fragrances

Beauty insiders, biohackers and longevity enthusiasts are going crazy for copper, more specifically, GHK-Cu, a copper peptide linked to everything from wound healing and collagen production to thicker, healthier-looking hair. From supplements and serums to creams and injectables, you may have noticed it all over your social feeds. But despite the sudden surge in popularity, it’s actually not a new ingredient. So, with that in mind, is it really the Wunderkind everyone’s claiming it to be? We spoke to the experts to find out…

GHK-Cu explained

When it comes to peptides, “think of them like keys that open up different locks,” shares Dr Omar Babar, medical director at Healand Clinic. “Each key latches onto a specific lock aka a receptor in the body, and unlocks a specific process like making collagen, repairing tissue, releasing a hormone, and so on," he adds.

GHK-Cu is a naturally occurring peptide made up of three amino acids—glycine, histidine and lysine—which binds to a copper ion, forming a compound the body uses as a repair signal. When our tissue is damaged, GHK-Cu gets to work by stimulating collagen production, calming inflammation, and signalling cells to regenerate.

As we age, our natural levels of GHK-Cu drop significantly. "By boosting it, you're allowing the skin to do what it's naturally supposed to be doing: stimulating repair mechanisms and supporting its own healing properties," explains Babar. So, it makes sense that there’s so much interest in replenishing natural stores through serums, supplements and injectable protocols.

GHK-Cu skin benefits

GHK-Cu signals fibroblasts (the cells responsible for producing collagen and elastin) to ramp up production. It also functions as an antioxidant and anti-inflammatory agent. This makes the peptide quite unique. As Alejandro Saldarriaga, head of applied research at DECIEM, explains, they “support several aspects of healthy-looking skin rather than focusing on a single visible concern.”

And according to Dr Charlie Cox, longevity doctor at longevity hospital Reborne, “the topical skin evidence is the most solid data when it comes to the effectiveness of GHK-Cu, as studies show an improvement in firmness, texture, tone and fine lines.”

Take the stats on the NIOD Copper Amino Isolate Serum 31:1, for example. A lightweight, water-based serum designed to support overall skin quality, including firmness, elasticity, smoothness, and radiance. Studies found that twice-daily use of the product for 12 weeks visibly repairs multiple types of facial wrinkles, including crow's feet, nasolabial folds, marionette lines, forehead lines, and glabellar wrinkles. It also showed significant improvement in skin tone evenness at four and eight weeks, and in elasticity at four weeks.

It’s impressive, which is why it’s being compared to the gold standard ‘skin perfector’ retinol, as it offers similar results despite GHK-Cu being far more tolerable for sensitive or reactive skin types. "Retinol works by accelerating the skin's renewal processes, while copper peptides support the skin's natural repair and renewal mechanisms. For some individuals, this can make copper peptides a valuable alternative or complement to retinoids, particularly when skin comfort and tolerability are important considerations," says Saldarriaga.

What GHK-Cu does for hair

People across social media have been raving about the impressive hair growth they’ve noticed while using GHK-Cu, especially when injecting the stuff (more on that later). In theory, it makes sense that this copper peptide could “help improve blood supply to the follicle, support tissue repair, and prolong the hair growth phase,” explains Hannah Gaboardi, trichologist and founder of The Hannah Gaboardi Clinic. And that’s because GHK-Cu activates the Wnt/beta-catenin signalling pathway (the biological mechanism that pushes follicles from their resting phase back into active growth), while also reducing inflammation around each follicle, which over time can shorten the growth cycle, as well as contribute to strands growing back finer and weaker.

The copper peptide might also be helpful in treating telogen effluvium, the type of diffuse shedding triggered by stress, illness, surgery, hormonal changes, nutritional deficiencies or significant weight loss. While it doesn't address the underlying trigger, "by supporting cellular signalling, reducing inflammation and promoting scalp health, it can complement a treatment plan focused on correcting the root cause," says Gaboardi.

She stresses that this caveat matters, as "peptides alone are unlikely to resolve telogen effluvium if the underlying trigger remains unaddressed. The most important step is identifying and correcting the cause, whether that is low iron, vitamin deficiencies, thyroid dysfunction, stress or hormonal changes." The same logic applies to androgenetic alopecia. Since GHK-Cu has no effect on DHT - the hormone that drives this common form of female hair loss - it can't be used as a substitute for treatments that target DHT directly like minoxidil.

“Since it's relatively new, we don't have enough long-term research compared to the likes of minoxidil or other DHT blockers, or even in-clinic treatments like PRP," notes Gaboardi. So, realistically, where it is likely to genuinely help is with diffuse thinning, post-damage recovery, weakened strands, and a compromised scalp environment—as we do know it supports the conditions needed for healthy growth.

Delivery methods decoded

Bioavailability, which is essentially how much of an active actually reaches your bloodstream or target tissue, varies wildly depending on the delivery method. "Anything taken orally, only 20 to 40 per cent will get absorbed into the bloodstream as the rest gets destroyed in the stomach. When injected beyond the skin barrier and into the tissues, you get the highest bioavailability of all—anywhere from 90 per cent all the way up to 99 per cent. And then topicals sit somewhere in between, with absorption varying depending on the size of the molecule," shares Babar.

For most people, topical application of GHK-Cu purchased from a reputable source, paired with microneedling, is the most accessible and the safest avenue. The micro-channels created by the tiny needles improve penetration, so you increase bioavailability without the need for injection, which is where things get considerably murkier.

A word on injectable peptides

A huge and largely unregulated market has emerged around injectable peptides, with most bought directly online - think longevity compounds, tanning agents, and recovery aids. “The GLP-1 boom is largely responsible. As many of these compounds aren't new discoveries, they were researched decades ago and shelved, sometimes for commercial reasons, sometimes simply because society wasn't ready for at-home injecting. But the popularity of weight-loss jabs has made self-injecting completely normal for millions who'd never previously considered it, and that comfort has spilt over into peptides. A whole industry is now poised to launch because of the normalisation of self-injecting,” reveals Babar, who offers a range of ‘for research purposes only’ peptides at his clinic.

‘Research purposes’ is the key here, as GHK-Cu and other popular peptides “don’t hold a marketing authorisation, so they cannot lawfully be sold or marketed for human use,” reveals Cox. They can be used by an individual for research purposes, but the risk is that, as of yet, we don’t have the same clinical trial data as with the likes of Ozempic and Mounjaro. Meaning injectable peptides can be risky business, as most people buying peptides online have absolutely no idea if what they’re taking is legit.

“We literally spend thousands of pounds testing and vetting our peptides before you can actually use them for clinic purposes. But that’s not the case for a lot of the suppliers people buy from. God knows where they're produced, in what conditions, how they're being stored, and how they’re shipped from country to country,” says Babar.

Whether it’s GHK-Cu or another peptide, the biggest risk has very little to do with the molecule itself and everything to do with what you're actually injecting. In recent years independent testing of consumer peptides bought online has repeatedly found a significant proportion failing basic quality checks, with live bacteria, heavy metals and bacterial endotoxin (which can cause serious illness and even death) being present in samples.

Even if your peptides are the real deal, they could be dangerous for your health. Take Melanotan, a synthetic peptide that mimics the hormone that stimulates melanin production, pushing pigment-producing cells to work harder for a faster, deeper tan without time in the sun. The skin cancer risk can’t be ignored, as “people have reported existing moles becoming darker, new freckles or moles appearing and changes in pigmentation,” shares Dr Ahmed El Muntasar, GP and founder of The Aesthetics Doctor Clinic. He advises against using melanotan, noting that “any change in a mole is something we take very seriously because it can potentially make it harder to identify early warning signs of melanoma.”

Is GHK-Cu worth a try?

When it comes to using GHK-Cu topically on the skin, the answer is a resounding yes. However, “consumers should also be aware that not all copper peptide products are made equal. The form of the peptide, the amount used, and the surrounding formulation can vary considerably from product to product,” warns Saldarriaga.

As for our hair, the science is plausible, but the proof isn't there yet, and it's no substitute for treatments that address hormonal hair loss directly. So, if you fancy giving it a shot, “prioritise reputable brands that provide clinical data, research and transparent ingredient lists,” shares Gaboardi.

And when it comes to injectable GHK-Cu, Saldarriaga points out that it’s worth remembering that “copper peptides have a long history of use in skincare, with origins in dermatology and medicine stretching back to the late 1980s. Whereas many injectable peptide protocols are still supported by a more limited body of evidence. As with any emerging area, it's important that growing interest is matched by continued research.” That might mean right now the risks outweigh the rewards. But if you’re keen to give it a go, be sure to source your injectable peptides through a properly vetted clinician rather than social media.

GHK-Cu products to try now

If there's one thing I can't stand, it's a thick, chalky facial sunscreen. Not only do they feel uncomfortable on the skin, but they can also make makeup application a nightmare. That's why I've made it my mission to find lightweight facial SPFs that offer brilliant protection but are invisible on the skin and sink in effortlessly. After some serious testing, I've finally discovered formulas I can wear daily that leave no trace.

Although I love an SPF moisturiser, it doesn't always offer enough protection in the summer months. Not to mention, they don't tend to have any water-resistant properties to contend with swimming or sweat.

When it comes to SPFs for under makeup, a milky formula, hydrating ingredients, and minimal greasiness are non-negotiable. These tried-and-tested lightweight SPFs offer all these properties, with high UV protection above all.

Best lightweight facial SPFs: Quick shopping links

• Best overall: £88 at LookFantastic (save 20%)
• Most affordable: £14.32 at LookFantastic (save 20%)
• Best milky: £49 at Space NK
• Best tinted: £21.60 at LookFantastic (save 20%)
• Best mist: £11.19 at LookFantastic (save 20%)
• Best brightening: £65 at Space NK
• Best water-resistant: £42 at Selfridges
• Most hydrating: £12.40 at LookFantastic (save 20%)

Best lightweight facial SPFs 2026

The Augustinus Bader sunscreen is one of the Marie Claire team's all-time favourites, and it's still one of my most used SPFs over a year after its launch. There's so much to love about this formula, from its patented healing Trigger Factor Complex (TFC8®) that enhances the skin to its beautifully hydrating finish that leaves the skin with a natural glow—no greasiness whatsoever. The high SPF 50 protects you even on the sunniest of days, and it helps minimise the appearance of fine lines, dullness and age spots whilst you wear it. It has a moisturiser-like finish with a creamy feel, and it sinks in almost immediately with an invisible finish. Yes, it's on the pricey side, but considering the wonders it does for your skin, I think it's more than worth it.

Not only is CeraVe's Invisible Hydrating Fluid Sunscreen one of the most affordable on the market, but it boasts a milky formula with zero white cast. Infused with three essential ceramides, it helps to hydrate the skin for a radiant, plumped appearance, and it nourishes your moisture barrier too. It has a subtly dewy finish that layers very nicely with makeup, but it doesn't get shiny or oily throughout the day. I'm a big fan of the squeezy packaging for easy application, and it's suitable for all skin types and colours. If you have problematic skin and want a fragrance-free formula that won't trigger breakouts, this is a brilliant option.

I'm a sucker for a milky SPF, but not all lightweight sunscreens fall into that category. A milky formula tends to be both light and extra hydrating, ideal for dry or dehydrated skin types that need a nourishing boost. Tatcha's newest SPF does exactly that, leaving a dewy finish that makes the skin naturally glowy. I love how undetectable this sunscreen is, as well as how well it instantly soothes tight skin thanks to vitamin E and encapsulated ectoin. You can expect zero white cast and day-long hydration that keeps you protected from UV rays.

More like a tinted serum than a traditional SPF, La Roche Posay's Anthelios UVAIR formula has a thicker finish than other lightweight facial sunscreens. However, it blends in within seconds and sinks right into the skin for comfortable wear with a natural finish. It's more on the matte side, offering a skin-like appearance with concealing and blurring properties. It doesn't provide full coverage in the way a foundation would, but it definitely reduces my redness and makes any dark spots or discolouration much less noticeable. It's my top pick if you want a your-skin-but-better look with UV protection, and the finish lasts up to 16 hours to contend with the summer heat. I'm wearing shade light, and it hardly took any blending with my hands to get a natural look.

The beauty of an SPF mist is how versatile it is; wear under or over makeup without disturbing your products, and use it to top up throughout the day too. Garnier's formula is as close to weightless as it gets, whilst still providing SPF 50 to keep your skin protected. The addition of vitamin C helps to lighten dark spots on the face and add some glow, and the mist itself disappears almost instantly after spraying. The only downside is that it doesn't last as long as liquid formulas, but the budget-friendly price tag makes it more than worth it.

It's no secret that sun exposure can make dark spots and hyperpigmentation worse, so a formula that protects from UV rays and addresses these skin concerns is a winner in my book. Ranavat's mineral formula offers instant SPF 50 protection, as well as saffron to brighten and squalane to moisturise skin and strengthen the skin barrier. It's light and dewy when squeezed out, and feels significantly lighter and smoother than other mineral sunscreens that tend to be thicker. I love it as an even base for applying makeup with no slipperiness, and the added skincare benefits make it a 2-in-1 product in my daily routine.

If I'm on holiday, I rarely go a full hour without jumping in the pool or sea—so a water-resistant SPF is essential. But even when I'm at home, a London heatwave also calls for UV protection that I won't sweat off. The Dr. Dennis Gross All Physical Ultimate Defense SPF 50 is both water and sweat-resistant for long lasting protection, but it's another sunscreen that has a hydrating and milky formula. The finish is very subtly dewy without oiliness, and it has both a pump and squeezy tube so you can get every last drop. Another huge plus is that it's fragrance-free, so won't irritate sensitive or acne-prone skin.

This SPF was the first Beauty of Joseon product I fell in love with, and you can see from my almost-empty tube that it's been well loved. It sits somewhere between a milk and a cream, so it's extremely light as well as nourishing and hydrating. It's completely non-greasy and suitable for all skin types thanks to the gentle formula, and it's one of my favourites for wearing under makeup. It provides a hydrated base without any chalkiness whatsoever, acting like a gorgeous primer. Plus, it's ridiculously affordable for SPF 50.

Growing-up, when I thought about a facelift, I envisioned rich old ladies with distorted facial features, unnaturally tight skin, and tell-tale scarring. Now, with celebs being more transparent about the work they have had, I, along with everyone else have become more aware of what a good facelift can do. And that offers a natural-looking, yet completely transformative youth boost. Kris Jenner, Sia, Lindsay Lohan (allegedly), and at least a dozen Bravo Housewives have wowed us with their new faces. So, now, as going under the knife has become more normalised than ever before—I’m starting to consider the surgery I once thought I’d never have.

I’m not alone, as according to the British Association of Aesthetic Plastic Surgeons (BAPPS), face and neck lifts rose by 11 per cent in 2025, while brow lifts, which are typically combined with facelifts, increased by a whopping 27 per cent. So, as the reality became not if, but when would I get a facelift, I also started to wonder if I would have to start planning my longstanding and future aesthetic treatments around my desire to go under the knife.

“You absolutely do,” shared plastic surgeon, and Mallucci London founder, Patrick Mallucci. “The road to surgery requires as much thought as the surgery itself, because what many patients don’t realise is that the aesthetic treatments you have in the years, months and even weeks before a facelift can significantly affect the surgery and the outcome.”

Facelifts, explained

Ponytail facelift, deep-plane facelift, SMAS facelift. There is a plethora of terms for what plastic surgeon and aesthetic doctor, Lara De Luca, explains is essentially, “a surgical procedure that repositions and tightens the facial tissues and removes excess skin to restore a more youthful appearance.” What makes the latest facelift techniques better than facelifts of old is that, “modern facelifts focus on lifting and repositioning the underlying structures of the face rather than simply pulling the skin tight. This creates more natural-looking, longer-lasting results and avoids the overly stretched appearance that was sometimes associated with older techniques,” adds De Luca. But like with most aesthetic treatments and surgical procedures, one size does not fit all. “Every surgeon has their own technique, and every technique has its advantages and disadvantages. The buzz surrounding particular techniques on social media can be misleading and a distraction from the more important conversation about which technique suits you best,” adds Mallucci.

What suits you will largely be dictated by several factors: your bone structure, skin thickness, fat distribution, the level of sagging, as well as how much downtime you're willing to accept and your long-term goals. Age doesn’t really play a role, as it's less about how old you are and more about how soon you show signs of ageing. "Some patients may be suitable candidates in their 40s or earlier, particularly if they have experienced significant weight loss (often assisted by GLP-1s), extensive sun damage or have a strong genetic tendency towards early facial ageing. Others may not consider surgery until their 60s or later. Genetics, lifestyle, skin quality and facial structure all play a role," shares De Luca.

The treatments that can complicate things

Timing is key. Not just when you decide to go under the knife, but how you plan the aesthetic treatments that are often booked to push surgery further down the line—and, increasingly, which treatments you've been told to fear versus which ones actually deserve the reputation. TikTok is awash with videos vilifying certain treatments as facelift-ruiners. The truth, however, is far more nuanced than the discourse suggests.

Sculptra, in particular, has become a scapegoat for a problem that's largely historic. Plastic and reconstructive surgeon Dr Ashwin Soni explains that complaints traced back to how the product was used years ago, not the product itself. "Sculptra comes as plant-derived microparticles mixed with sterile water, and very early on, some providers weren't diluting it enough," he says. "Injected too concentrated—and often too deep, in the same plane surgeons later need to work on during a facelift—it triggered a collagen response that could potentially cause lumps, leading to a lasting reputation".

The good news is that dilution protocols have moved on, and most biostimulators now follow far more conservative guidelines. Soni often recommends Sculptra to his own patients, both to improve skin elasticity ahead of a facelift and to maintain results afterwards—provided you're seeing someone who genuinely understands facial anatomy and injection depth. In fact, Sculptra is one of the safest and most robustly researched biostimulators available today, having originally been developed over 25 years ago for medical use and put through rigorous safety protocols.

Threads, however, are a different story. Where Sculptra's reputation has outlived its risk, Soni is unequivocal that threads haven't—he never recommends them, calling the scarring risk, from both the depth they're typically placed at and the way they interact with tissue, too consistent a downside for someone planning future surgery.

Other biostimulators like hydrating Profhilo, regenerative exosomes and polynucleotides are not "a concern," reveals Mallucci, as they're designed to improve skin quality, boost hydration, and stimulate collagen at a superficial level. The same goes for devices like ultrasound-powered Sofwave and Morpheus8, which combines microneedling with radiofrequency to tighten and contour skin.

One category we should be more wary of, says Mallucci, is "deep-acting energy devices" such as J-Plasma and FaceTite, which work at a level that can scar you in the same planes a surgeon later needs. Soni makes a related point about radio frequency microneedling specifically: the risk isn't really the device category, it's whether the person holding it understands anatomy. "You need to make sure that you're with a provider who understands it," he says—the same caveat, really, that applies to all non-surgical cosmetic procedures.

What about dermal filler?

Though dermal filler has arguably been knocked off the top spot with the rise of biostimulators and fat transfers, many aesthetic doctors still believe it has an important role to play when it comes to lifting, and contouring the face—especially in the years leading up to a facelift. "However, large volumes of filler can sometimes mask the true extent of age-related volume loss or tissue descent, making assessment more challenging," explains De Luca. "They’re not a contraindication to surgery, but it’s important that patients disclose their filler history during the consultation so the surgeon can plan accordingly."

And you might not even have to dissolve your filler pre-surgery, “In some cases it might be an advantage to dissolve the filler before the facelift. In other cases, it’s not necessarily required. It depends on where it’s been put and how long ago,” adds Mallucci.

Find one doctor, not five

If there's one piece of advice that cuts across all of this, it's not about which treatment to avoid—it's about who's administering it. Soni is candid that patients hopping between providers make surgical planning harder, simply because no one has the full picture. "People need to have a long-term game plan with a doctor, with whom they're in a long-term patient relationship," he says, pointing out that skin quality and anatomy shift over time regardless of what you have or haven't had done.

His advice for anyone choosing a provider: do your homework and research them in depth. Check before-and-afters, ask about training and experience with facial anatomy, read reviews, and confirm their registration with the various governing bodies like the General Medical Council, or the Nursing & Midwifery Council. The BCAM Pre-Consultation Safety Questionnaire is a handy six-step checklist designed to help you choose safely. It covers practitioner qualifications, insurance, premises standards and product sourcing, and can be printed or sent to a clinic ahead of time.

When to stop tweaking

Whether you choose to get a facelift in your 40s, 50s, 60s or 70s, the healthier your skin is, the better—if we ensure our skin is well-hydrated, collagen-rich and resilient it will make a meaningful difference to both our results and recovery.

What we must do is be totally transparent with our future surgeons and go for our first consult at good amount of time before our ideal surgery date. “As a rule of thumb, stopping treatments at least six months before surgery, and ideally up to a year in some cases, allows for better assessment and surgical planning. Patients also need to disclose all previous aesthetic treatments, as well as any previous facial surgery or trauma. This information can significantly influence surgical planning and helps avoid unexpected findings during surgery,” says De Luca.

I’m planning to create a digital diary of all the treatments I’ve already had (everything from injectables to lasers), and log all my future treatments too, so by the time I have my first consultation with a surgeon I’ll be armed with all the info they need. Let the countdown begin...

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

I'm always on the lookout for new facial treatments – particularly those that work to actively contour the face rather than target skin quality. As someone who's recovering from hormonal acne, I'm pretty picky about who touches my face for the latter. But a sculpting facial massage appointment? Sign me up.

This is why when I first heard about fascia facials, I knew they were calling my name. Listen, I love my gua sha and facial rollers so much (and use them every day) but I'm always keen to try something that delivers more dramatic, instant results. Here's what I learned from giving the treatment a go first-hand.

What is the fascia?

Fascia is the connective, supportive tissue that wraps around your muscles, bones, organs and nerves. It also supports structures such as blood vessels and fat compartments. It's present all over your body, but in your face, there are a couple of specific 'systems' that are worth knowing. "The key fascial layer often discussed is the SMAS, the superficial musculoaponeurotic system, which is important in facial structure and ageing," explains Consultant Dermatologist, Dr Sidra Khan.

With this in mind, it makes sense that without giving your fascia attention, you may see signs of puffiness, tension and less definition. It's important to note, of course, that the fascia alone is not responsible for the appearance of your skin and face by any means, but it can be a contributing factor. Stress and tension kept in the jaw, shoulders and neck can contribute to fascia becoming stiff and therefore less smooth, flexible and healthy overall.

What is a fascia facial?

My experience of a fascia facial was pretty typical: this is not a relaxing treatment, but a pretty vigorous facial massage that aims to contour the face, reduce puffiness and aid in lymphatic drainage.

The fascia has long been a focus of Korean contouring facials, so I went to try one out at Pure Glam Beauty. Of their 'Korean Signature Contour,' they explained: "Fascia work is a key part of the treatment. We use targeted techniques to release tension, improve circulation and encourage lymphatic drainage. The goal is to reduce puffiness, enhance facial definition and create a naturally sculpted appearance. Unlike traditional facials that focus mainly on the skin, this treatment works with the deeper facial structures that influence facial shape and contour."

The facial combines stretching motions and firm massage with the fingers, down the neck, shoulders and across the face. My facialist used lifting movements and pressure point work, and did a round of dry massage (with gloves) and one with oil for better slip. It was noticeably different from a 'regular' facial as it's much more focused on facial structure and tension rather than skin quality.

A typical fascia-focused facial will begin with a double cleanse, then move into a series of facial massages (either with or without product and gloves), followed by face masks, moisturiser and mist.

It wasn't the most comfortable treatment I've ever had (particularly at the bit around my neck, which was very sore because my muscles there are tight), but I definitely saw an instant lift post-treatment. When looking at my before and after pictures, you can see a subtle contoured effect particularly along my jawline and cheekbones.

Who would benefit from a fascia facial?

If, like me, you've been experiencing water retention and puffiness around your face, a fascia-focused facial can definitely be a great choice. This is a treatment to try if you want to contour and define the face, rather than enhance skin quality or concentrate on specific concerns such as acne or eczema.

My facialist actually told me that the ideal number of facials to aim for is about 20 a year, if you want long-lasting structural change. For most of us this may not be achievable, but it can be a great one-off treatment for temporary lift and definition. If you have a wedding, party or other special occasion, for example, booking in a week prior for one of these can make a huge difference. As you can experience a little puffiness and soreness the days following an appointment, it's best not to leave it any closer to the date.

Can you do a fascia facial from home?

In theory, yes, but I'd argue this may be better suited to the professionals as we're dealing with the deeper structure of the skin rather than the superficial layers. That said, if you're willing to learn more about the practise and put it to the test, you can benefit from at-home facial massage techniques that aim to improve the fascia.

This is best done with fingers (although if you want to simply try facial massage, a gua sha or roller can make it easy). I'd suggest following a step-by-step tutorial like the ones by @anastasiabeautyfascia: a skin expert who's built her following by focusing on the all-important fascia. Anastasia is proof that long-term attention to the fascia can literally change the shape and structure of the face.

I loved having this treatment and would definitely go back for more, but I'm not sure I personally have the willpower (!!) to perform it on myself regularly. For that, I'll be sticking to my handy gua sha which subtly improves puffiness over time. A professional fascia facial will instead become my special treat.

Few products have found continued virality quite like La Roche Posay's Cicaplast. But as someone with a history of severe acne, I've always shied away from more occlusive products for fear of provoking blemishes. After putting Cicaplast Baume SPF 50 to the test, I realise just what I've been missing out on with this product.

Touted as a nourishing balm that soothes and protects irritated skin and even minor injuries, the original Cicaplast balm can be used for everything from moisturising to helping to reduce sebaceous filaments on the nose. The SPF 50 version offers all this, with the added benefit of sun protection too.

Other heroes from the Cicaplast range been staples in my daily routine for years, so it's no surprise that this is now joining their ranks. After a week of testing, these are my honest thoughts on Cicaplast Baume SPF 50—and exactly why it's joined the ranks of my long-standing sunscreen favourites for dry areas.

Cicaplast Baume SPF 50: My review

I've long been aware of the original Cicaplast and its benefits, particularly for healing ultra-dry and damaged skin. However, it never really felt like something I needed. I'm more on the oily side, and my aforementioned fear of clogging my pores and inviting acne into my life was enough to put me off. But after discovering the SPF 50 formula, I was suitably intrigued.

My number one question was how this product could possibly function as a sunscreen. I was under the assumption that it was extremely thick and not all that easy to rub in, so the thought of applying it over my face? A no-go. But after swatching on my hand, I realised just how easily the formula sinks in and dries down.

Although it's designed to be applied on specific problem areas rather than all over, I wanted to see if it would work across my face. The swatch made me confident enough to apply it in a thin layer, to see exactly how it would fare throughout the day and whether it would agree with my skin.

I'm pleased to report, I was extremely pleasantly surprised. It smoothed over my skin nicely and sank in much quicker than I was expecting. I was prepared for a greasy, shiny finish due to the creamy formula, but it didn't take long to settle and leave a skin-like texture.

I used slightly more around my nose and on dry patches, and it did a brilliant job at soothing those areas and helping with the texture that appears.

It also sat comfortably on my face all day with noticeable hydration. However, owing to the fact that it isn't intended as a full facial SPF, I did find that it caused some pilling with makeup towards the end of the day.

Moving forward, I combined it with my regular SPF—applying a base of my everyday sunscreen and topping it up with Cicaplast SPF 50 around my nose and on any dry, itchy patches that cropped up. This method is definitely the key to success. It allowed me to fully protect my skin from UV rays whilst tackling dry patches and texture where needed.

Who should use Cicaplast Baume SPF 50?

Now, it's important to note that Cicaplast Baume SPF 50 is not designed to be an all-over suncream that you'll wear every day—unless you have very damaged or fragile skin. Rather, it's a soothing treatment that can be applied to problem areas and irritations to help to soothe, heal, and protect from the sun.

It does a brilliant job at protecting and nourishing difficult areas of the skin without compromising on SPF protection. It instantly calms the skin once it's applied, making it a very welcome balm to have on hand for any issues that may crop up.

My favourite way to apply it has been around my nose where I get very dry, and on places like my shoulders, elbows, and knees where I'm prone to dryness or suffer with some peeling after being in the sun. It can also be used to nourish tattoos and protect them from the sun, or on grazes that are healing.

But, if you are someone who feels as though you could benefit from using it across your face, I can confirm that it's fit for purpose—and will relieve discomfort whilst keeping UV at bay.

I've spent well over a decade working as a beauty editor, and a significant portion of that time as a willing human pin-cushion in the name of research. I've been injected, lasered, resurfaced, and sculpted by practitioners across the country, which has also given me a finely tuned radar for identifying the truly exceptional. I'm talking about the ones who are medically rigorous, artistically restrained, and utterly incapable of over-treating someone. The names below are the ones I would send my closest friends to (and have done many times), without hesitation.

But first, a note on safety: with aesthetics injectables now more accessible than ever, choosing a qualified practitioner matters more than ever, too. Always ensure your injector is a registered medical professional—a doctor, dentist, or nurse prescriber—and check their credentials via the GMC, NMC, or GDC registers. The Save Face accreditation scheme is also a useful starting point for vetting clinics.

Now, a peek inside my Black Book...

Taktouk Clinic

• Where: Knightsbridge; The Chancery Rosewood, Mayfair, London
• Who: Dr Wassim Taktouk and Dr Christine Hall
• Known for: Advanced injectables, K-beauty-informed skin treatments, laser dermatology, ethical and safety-first ethos

Winner of Aesthetic Clinic of the Year in both 2023 and 2024, Taktouk Clinic has earned its reputation through substance rather than hype. Dr Wassim—who trained in A&E before spending a decade in emergency medicine—brings a clinical precision that shows in every result; he won't treat you if he doesn't think you need it. Everything he does accentuates in an artistic and perfectly proportioned way, so that the result reads as good genes rather than good injectables.

Dr Christine Hall is the clinic's K-beauty specialist: a GMC-registered GP with South Korean heritage and a deep knowledge of the skincare ingredients and techniques that have made Seoul the world capital of skin. She's inarguably responsible for some of the best glass-skin results in London. To have both of these experts in one setting puts this clinic right at the top of my list.

Prager Clinic

• Where: Beauchamp Place, Chelsea
• Who: Dr Michael Prager
• Known for: Whole-face rejuvenation, non-surgical approaches, long-term patient relationships

One of Europe's most consistently cited aesthetic physicians, Dr Prager has been practising for over 20 years—and has been my go-to doctor for Botox for six of those years (I don't think anyone does it better than him). He treats the face as a whole rather than chasing individual concerns, which is exactly the kind of thinking that separates the great from the merely competent. The result is a face that looks holistically rested and refreshed, not frozen and filled in specific spots.

The Aesthetics Doctor

• Where: Mayfair, London; Leeds; Cheshire
• Who: Dr Ahmed El Muntasar
• Known for: Medically led aesthetics, Sculptra, advanced injectables and laser treatments

Dr Ahmed has the credentials that would make most practitioners feel slightly inadequate. He was the youngest-ever medical student admitted to St Andrews, NHS GP, MSc in Medical Leadership from UCL, over 10,000 procedures performed (and he's a judge at the Marie Claire Skin Awards). His Sculptra work, in particular, is worth a mention—Sculptra is currently the most sought-after biostimulator in aesthetics (it stimulates your own collagen rather than simply filling, which means results build gradually and last up to two years), and Dr Ahmed administers it with the same precision and restraint that defines everything else he does.

His Mayfair clinic was named Best New Clinic at the Safety in Beauty Awards 2025, and patients travel from the Middle East and beyond for his work. Plus, he's genuinely one of the nicest, warmest practitioners I've ever had the pleasure of being treated by.

Dr Sophie Shotter

• Where: 10 Harley Street, London
• Who: Dr Sophie Shotter
• Known for: Natural injectables, polynucleotides, holistic anti-ageing, energy-based devices

Dr Shotter's philosophy is that the best work should be invisible, meaning you'll leave looking like yourself, just significantly more rested and with a coveted glow. A board member of the British College of Aesthetic Medicine and Aesthetic Medical Practitioner of the Year 2023, she's as rigorous about safety as she is about results. Her inside-out approach, combining injectables with skincare, supplements, and hormone health where relevant, is what sets her apart from the crowd.

The Soni Clinic

• Where: Ascot, Berkshire; The Langham, London
• Who: Dr Ash Soni
• Known for: Surgical and non-surgical expertise, polynucleotides, Sculptra, precision injectables

Dr Ash Soni is, technically, a plastic and reconstructive surgeon—trained at Imperial College, Cornell's New York Presbyterian, Johns Hopkins, and The Royal Marsden. Which is to say: he's operating at a level most aesthetic doctors could only dream of. He literally brings surgical-level anatomical knowledge to non-surgical treatments. Plus, his aesthetic eye is renowned for being exceptional, and his clinic's London residency at The Langham is beautiful. He has also published more than 40 peer-reviewed papers, which tells you everything about how seriously he takes the science.

Dr Glyn Medispa

• Where: Chester; Fitzrovia, London
• Who: Dr Glyn Estebanez
• Known for: Facial harmonisation, bespoke injectables, a surgical eye applied to non-surgical results

Another trained surgeon and member of the Royal College of Surgeons, Dr Glyn's move into aesthetic means he approaches the face with a structural understanding most injectors simply don't have. His signature offering, facial harmonisation, is exactly what it sounds like: a whole-face approach that prioritises balance and proportion over isolated quick fixes. He has been accepted into the Mauricio de Maio global mentoring programme, which is effectively the gold standard in aesthetic education, and his work across Chester and Fitzrovia has earned him a devoted following. If you're nervous, he's also notably good at putting first-timers at ease.

A precious few things are touted as a cure-all for hormonal acne, but spironolactone—a prescription-based medication—has been doing the rounds on social media for exactly that reason. But can anything really be a cure-all for something as complex as acne, and who exactly is it right for?

Originally developed to treat conditions such as high blood pressure and heart failure, spironolactone is now frequently prescribed by consultant dermatologists, like Dr Zainab Laftah, for hormonal acne and female pattern hair loss due to its anti-androgen effects.

“It’s most commonly prescribed for women with signs of androgen-driven conditions,” Dr Laftah explains. “This includes hormonal acne, particularly acne affecting the lower face and jawline, excessive hair growth (hirsutism), and female pattern hair loss. By blocking the effects of androgens, spironolactone helps reduce oil production, slow hair follicle miniaturisation, and improve unwanted hair growth.” She adds that it isn't routinely prescribed to men because of those same anti-androgen effects, which can lead to side effects including breast enlargement, reduced libido and sexual dysfunction.

It's gone viral online for a reason; it really does work. Partnerships Manager Molly Jappy, 27, tried everything to treat her hormonal acne, which was caused by Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS). “I spent 10 years trying every treatment and ointment, including Accutane, antibiotics, topical treatments, supplements and endless skincare products to no avail,” she tells Marie Claire UK. “I felt hopeless until I discovered spironolactone. I’ve had clear skin ever since. My confidence has just soared.”

Similarly, journalist and beauty expert Kristina Rodulfo found that her nodular, cystic acne wasn't responding to over-the-counter skincare. She eventually discovered spironolactone, which she took on and off over the next eight years. “Results typically show at the three-month mark and the difference was dramatic. I went from having anywhere from 15-20 painful, red cysts all across my jawline to having smooth, clear skin. Similar to the way people describe GLP-1 treatments as erasing "food noise", spironolactone erased the mental load of acne. I was no longer stressing and monitoring my diet for triggers, or combing over every single ingredient in my skincare and make-up.”

Kristina has since gone off the medication, however—citing side-effects from the anti-androgen properties that make it so effective. In combination with her contraceptive IUD, she found that spironolactone made her menstrual cycle irregular and, at times, caused it to disappear altogether. "Before planning for a family, I wanted to come off it and get my body's reproductive health and hormones back to baseline," she says. "But I do think I'll go back on it eventually because it was the most effective acne treatment I've ever tried."

While Consultant Dermatologist and Renew + Me ambassador, Dr Malvina Cunningham states that many people tolerate spironolactone well, she notes that Rodulfo's experience is not uncommon. “It’s not a one-size-fits-all, despite what social media is saying. Acne is a complex condition, and what works well for one person may not be suitable or effective for another.”

The most common side effects include increased urination (the medication is a diuretic), as well as breast tenderness, menstrual irregularities, headaches, dizziness and fatigue. However, there are also more serious side effects to consider.

Dr Christine Hall, a GP and aesthetic doctor who has taken spironolactone herself, stresses that the medication should only be used under appropriate medical supervision. "I have seen many hospital admissions, particularly in older people, where the cause has been this drug," she states. “In many cases, it is good practice to carry out blood tests before and during treatment. One of the key concerns with spironolactone is that it can affect and elevate blood potassium levels. Elevated potassium levels, known as hyperkalemia, must be monitored carefully because, if left unchecked, they can lead to serious complications, including abnormal heart rhythms and, in severe cases, death.”

Accordingly, it is generally not prescribed to people with certain underlying health conditions, including kidney disease, where the risk of elevated potassium levels is higher, or those with very low blood pressure. It is also not recommended during pregnancy, breastfeeding or while trying to conceive.

Interestingly, another less common side-effect that has been widely discussed on social media is breast enlargement. “It can happen because spironolactone’s anti-androgen effects alter the balance between androgens and oestrogen,” explains Dr Laftah. “In women, this may lead to a feeling of fullness or a modest increase in breast size, although this is not a universal side effect and is typically mild.” She adds that, in most cases, any breast enlargement associated with spironolactone improves or resolves once the medication is discontinued.

Out of the nine women I spoke to for this feature, only two reported mild side effects, including increased urination and occasional light-headedness. What may prove more prohibitive, however, is accessing the treatment itself.

Spironolactone is prescribed off-label for acne and is typically recommended by a dermatologist following an assessment. While it can be prescribed through the NHS, many people access it privately. All but one of the women I spoke to had received their prescription through a private dermatologist. The exception was Molly, who was eventually able to access it on the NHS following a PCOS diagnosis. Several cited NHS waiting times and administrative hurdles as reasons for going private.

"The biggest issue was actually getting hold of it," says 29-year-old writer Amber Rawlings. "There's so much red tape. I didn't even try going through the NHS because I'd heard it could take months, so I went straight to a private dermatologist. It was extremely expensive.”

While spironolactone itself is relatively inexpensive, the overall cost is driven by consultations, blood monitoring and follow-up appointments. Typically, an initial dermatology consultation can range from £200 to £350, while subsequent appointments may cost £100 to £250, depending on the clinic.

It was worth it for Amber, though: “I went from having skin that I was constantly fixating on to skin that I didn't have to think about at all. And honestly, that changes your whole existence. If you’re a suitable candidate for it, I’d recommend it in a heartbeat.”

But, of course, spironolactone is not the only solution for hormonal acne. As Dr Hall asserts, before even considering it, individuals should see a dermatologist and get an accurate diagnosis of the type of acne they have. “That’s really the key to finding the right treatment," she says. "In general, we like to start with the least invasive approach first. That means making sure someone is using the right over-the-counter skincare products and that their routine has been properly optimised. If that's not enough, we would usually consider adding topical prescription treatments. Oral medications are typically reserved for situations where they are genuinely needed.”

Summer is upon us, and with it comes a familiar beauty dilemma: how do you top up your SPF without ruining your make-up?

We all know how important it is to use sunscreen, but during high summer, it's regular re-application that is key. Of course, SPF has long had a bad reputation for being greasy, leaving a white cast and being a pain to use over make-up, but I come bearing good news: this is no longer the case. A slew of new formulas have made both application and re-application a doddle. Often infused with skin-loving ingredients, these next-gen products work effortlessly over make-up and can even double as setting sprays. So, without further ado, the best SPF mists on the market.

Best weightless SPF mists

Dealing with spots recurring in the same place, time and time again? Well, it may have something to do with a common vitamin deficiency, alongside the usual suspects.

"Deep cystic and and nodular spots sit further beneath the skin than most people realise," says Consultant Dermatologist, Dr Ellie Rashid, giving the context that oftentimes, the breakout was never "gone" in the first place. "The pore is a complex structure that extends deep into the skin. When a spot is squeezed, you might empty the surface, but the inflammation, oil and debris remain. The same pore then becomes inflamed a few weeks later."

But interestingly, studies have also linked this phenomenon to a very prevalent vitamin D deficiency—which around 49.5 per cent of UK adults have.

While scientists haven't established that this deficiency directly causes acne, research has found that people with acne are more likely to have low vitamin D levels, and that the severity of their symptoms may correlate with with this deficiency. One particular study suggested that if these patients supplemented with vitamin D they may see improvement in inflammation and thus their breakouts.

Fellow Consultant Derm, Dr Aiza Jamil notes that deficiencies in vitamin D may contribute to a more inflammatory skin environment: "Certain vitamin deficiencies may cause spots through a lowered immune system that may contribute to a more inflammatory skin environment, like Vitamin D," she explains. "They can also cause poor sleep, stress or can cause overall worse health, which can lead to more spots and inflammation."

However, Dr Rashid again stresses that vitamin D deficiencies do not cause acne. "Correcting a low vitamin D level is rarely the thing that clears up someone’s skin. If you’re getting recurring spots in the same area, it’s much more likely to be related to local pore activity, hormones and inflammation than a vitamin deficiency."

As ever, both experts suggest a holistic attitude to skin health, which, yes, involves ensuring that you're eating a well-rounded diet and ensuring that you're supplementing with vitamins when needed.

What else can cause recurring spots?

Dr Jamil explains that the pore behind the recurring spot may just be more liable to blockage and inflammation. "Some are known as “sticky” pores where follicles are anatomically more likely to trap dead skin cells and oil. And other pores are also particularly responsive to androgens, which are hormones that stimulate oil production. This can cause excess oil and blockages. A deep acne cyst may never completely resolve and can repeatedly flare."

In addition, certain lifestyle choices can cause irritation and inflammation in the same areas, such as glasses, phones, masks, touching your face and skin picking—this is referred to as acne mechanica.

"There's also pomade acne, which is caused by hair oils, waxes, pomades and styling products transferring onto the skin. I often see this around the temples, forehead and hairline," adds Dr Rashid.

How do you stop spots from recurring

The first step is stopping the squeezing, advise both dermatologists. "Squeezing increases inflammation, spreads baceria, leaves behind residual blockage and significantly increases the risk of scarring," elaborates Dr Rashid.

"Easy changes include avoiding touching the skin with your hands or with anything that could hold bacteria, such as your phone," adds Dr Jamil. "Certain hair products or cosmetics can cause irritation and flares, so make a note of any time you use a product that may cause irritation, and ensure your products you are using on your face, such as makeup brushes, are cleaned often."

Best products to treat recurring spots

Perhaps the most frustrating thing about breakouts is not knowing why they're happening. They can be caused by myriad reasons—stress, diet, sleep, travel, hormonal issues, and, of course, overdoing it with incompatible skincare.

As a Beauty Editor, I've always taken a clinical approach to my skin; I speak to dermatologists, I know what works for me, and I do as much as humanly possible to contend with stressors. So I was stumped by a recent bout of acne, which I figured couldn't have been caused by any of the above.

Cut to me being incredibly intrigued when celebrity aesthetician Shane Cooper wouldn't let me leave a facial without misting down my face and glasses with a skincare ingredient he swears by—the naturally antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory hypochlorous acid.

Once solely used for wound care, this ultra-gentle acid (which has the same pH as skin) can be used multiple times daily. It's naturally found in the body's white blood cells, where it combats foreign bodies, bacteria and viruses, promoting healing while easing redness, itchiness, acne, irritation and even eczema symptoms.

"I'm really happy people are starting to ask about it," replied Cooper after I enquired after my treatment. "It's naturally antifungal and antibacterial, but without any of the harshness you'd get from alcohol-based products. That's the key difference. So many sanitising sprays strip the skin barrier, which is the last thing you want, especially if you're already dealing with sensitivity or breakouts. Hypochlorous acid doesn't do that. It works with the skin rather than against it."

As Cooper reiterates, it's something the body produces naturally as part of its own immune response, so you're very unlikely to have a reaction. "It's also non-cytotoxic," he adds. "Meaning it targets the bad bacteria without disrupting your healthy skin cells or your microbiome. For anyone who's acne-prone or prone to congestion, that's really significant, because you're not creating more imbalance in the process of trying to fix a problem."

It made sense: a lot of my breakouts were occurring where my glasses and sunglasses touched my face, and during the recent heatwave we experienced in London, everything had become a lot, well, sweatier—so there was more of the bacteria that causes acne.

Safe to say I was sold. Though there are now a number of hypochlorous acid sprays on the market, I initially purchased Cooper's favourite, Puro Mist, which I proceeded to use everywhere: in the morning, after a workout, and before bed. Within days, I noticed that the breakouts had diminished.

I realised just how often I was putting my skin in contact with something unsanitary. We touch our faces all the time, and a handy bottle of this put a stop to that and my mind at rest, especially when I was travelling.

Still, it's something that will remain in my routine, acne or not. As the facialist continues, it's brilliant for inflammation generally: "I use it for clients whose skin is reactive, post-treatment, or just generally irritated, because it soothes and calms at the same time as it cleans. That dual action is quite rare, and it doesn't affect the skin's pH, which matters enormously for barrier health. There's no risk of overdoing it the way you might with actives or stronger treatments. It genuinely keeps the skin clean, calm, and a little bit hydrated without any interference."

In the months since this genuinely quite life-changing discovery, I've made it my mission to try the gamut of hypochlorous acid sprays on the market. Ahead are my vetted favourites.

After moving into a new flat, I found myself waking up most days with a dull, puffy, swollen face, redness, oilier-than-usual skin, and new spots to contend with. At first, I assumed I was run down from the move, but after a couple of weeks I noticed that dust would accumulate really quickly after I’d clean. As someone with pretty sensitive skin and a history of unexplainable allergic reactions, I wondered if the air I was breathing in every night was doing me more harm than good.

After a little sleuthing, I discovered that the issues with my skin and the endless dust could well be related. And that indoor air quality (and not just outdoor air quality) can have just as much, if not more, impact on the skin, driving everything from acne and hyperpigmentation to accelerated ageing.

Turns out my puffy face was likely caused by histamine production, a chemical the immune system releases when it detects a threat like dust-mite allergens. It causes blood vessels to dilate and fluid to accumulate in surrounding tissue, which is why I was waking up looking like I'd been out all night, even after getting a solid eight hours of sleep. The excess oil was my skin barrier's attempt to protect itself, and the dullness was low-grade inflammation at work.

What’s in the air we breathe?

I think it’s fair to say that most of us think of pollution as an outside issue, something we encounter in big cities, in and around busy roads, and not an issue we have to contend with in our homes. But “there’s lots of evidence now that air pollution levels can sometimes be higher indoors compared to outdoors,” says Dr Heather Price, Associate Professor in Environmental Geography at The University of Stirling, and UKRI Regional Clean Air Champion for Scotland. “Partly this is because air pollution can get indoors from outside through windows and doors. However, there are also lots of sources of air pollution inside our homes, including building materials, furnishings, cooking, heating, smoking, cleaning products and personal care products,” she adds.

So, while we thought we were mainly breathing in nitrogen and oxygen, it turns out the full list of what we’re breathing in is not so good for us. “It’s a complex mixture that includes nitrogen dioxide, which comes mainly from vehicles, sulphur dioxide from burning fuels like coal and oil, volatile organic compounds from household products, building materials and furnishings, and particulate matter—tiny particles from car exhaust, wood fires and factories,” explains Price. Light a candle, use a spray deodorant, renovate a room with standard paint, heat your home with a wood-burning stove: all of these contribute to your indoor pollution load, and that can take its toll on your skin.

Air pollution's impact on the skin

“Air pollution triggers oxidative stress in the skin, weakening the barrier and accelerating visible ageing such as fine lines, uneven tone and pigmentation,” says Ken Armstrong, Air Quality Research Director at Dyson. Oxidative stress occurs when free radicals, aka unstable molecules generated by pollution exposure, outnumber the skin’s antioxidants and wreak havoc by causing cellular damage. The skin barrier is particularly vulnerable. “Pollution breaks down essential lipids, increasing water loss and weakening the skin’s protective function. This makes skin more prone to dryness, irritation, and environmental damage,” adds Armstrong.

And the more pollutants we’re exposed to, the more skin complaints we’re going to have. “Key aggressors include particulate matter, (ground-level) ozone, VOCs and allergens like dust and pollen, which can trigger inflammation. Each contributes differently, but all can impact skin health,” says Armstrong.

For those of us who haven’t been in a science classroom in a while, particulate matter is a mixture of tiny solid matter and liquid particles made up of things like soot, dust, pollen, and mould spores. Anything smaller than 2.5 micrometres can penetrate deep into pores, triggering localised inflammation and congestion.

Ground-level ozone is a gas that forms when vehicle exhaust and industrial emissions react with sunlight. This one is particularly damaging to the skin, as it depletes its natural antioxidant reserves, specifically vitamins E and C, leaving it increasingly vulnerable to the oxidative damage Armstrong described above, which accelerates ageing.

Finally, volatile organic compounds, or VOCs, are chemicals that evaporate into the air at room temperature. They're emitted by a wide range of everyday products found in our homes like building materials, paint, cleaning products, air fresheners, candles, new furniture and flooring. According to the experts, some are harmless, and others are harmful with prolonged exposure. And in the case of my new flat, it’s likely they were at an all-time high, thanks to the fresh coat of paint it got, and all my new furnishings off-gassing all at the same time.

Armstrong notes that it doesn’t take long for your skin to be affected by these pollutants. “Some effects like dryness and irritation can appear within days of exposure. Longer-term exposure leads to cumulative damage such as pigmentation and fine lines. And while it’s often those with sensitive, dry and acne-prone skin that tend to react most visibly, no skin type is immune.”

Are air purifiers the answer?

Once I realised dust could be one of the main reasons why my skin had lost the plot, I resolved to hoover and dust the place, especially my bedroom, every other day. But that became a literal chore, and I really resented having to clean so often. That’s when I wondered if an air purifier could help.

“Air purifiers draw air through filters designed to trap some of the key pollutants. HEPA filters are designed to remove over 99 per cent of particles of 0.3µm size and activated carbon filters can help to remove volatile organic compounds and odours,” says Dr Price. How well they work depends on the brand, the flow rate, the size of the room and where you place them, but according to Armstrong, “research shows cleaner air reduces exposure to particles that drive inflammation and oxidative stress, which supports overall skin health.”

He also advises on investing in one that has a fully sealed system design, as these ensure pollutants aren’t released back into the air. “And place your purifier in the bedroom as sleep affects your skin more than you think, and reducing airborne irritants like dust and pollen can support uninterrupted, restorative sleep and healthier-looking skin,” he adds.

Putting an air purifier to the test

If I could I would have put an air purifier in every room of my flat, but since I haven’t won the lottery, I chose to place my Dyson Big+Quiet Formaldehyde BP04 Purifying Fan, £899.99, in my living room during the day while I work from home, and then a few hours before bed I’d move it to the bedroom to give it enough time to cycle and clean the air multiple times before bed. What I found really helpful about that approach was that the Dyson app shows you real-time air quality readings, so I could actually see when the levels had dropped to a good level before going to bed.

I was amazed by how quickly I felt a difference, not only in how my skin looked and behaved, but also in how I felt. Yes, after speaking to the experts I understood the science of ‘bad’ air, but I didn’t think I’d sleep better too. “Allergens and particulate matter trigger low-grade inflammatory responses and histamine release even during sleep, keeping the body in a mild state of alert rather than in full restoration mode. Cleaner air reduces the overnight inflammatory load, allowing the body to move through sleep stages more efficiently and spend more time in deep sleep. The result is both better rest and a more productive repair window for the skin,” explains Armstrong.

Turns out, despite getting the same amount of sleep as before, I was now getting better-quality sleep. Add that to the fact that my skin was being assaulted by less air pollution, it didn’t take long for my acne to settle, my skin to stop overproducing oil at night and for me to wake up looking a lot less puffy each morning.

What you can do beyond the purifier

After putting one to the test, owning an air purifier is a must for me, but Price believes, “Air purifiers are more of an added extra in terms of ways to improve indoor air quality. It’s much more effective to stop doing the things that are adding pollutants into your home, rather than trying to remove them once they are there.” Her practical advice: avoid lighting candles, burning incense and using air fresheners. Buy low-VOC paint next time you give your place a makeover, and opt for non-spray versions of cleaning products and beauty products where possible.

Speaking of beauty buys, antioxidants are your best defence against pollution-induced skin cell damage. What we eat helps up our stores, but applying them topically works a treat too. Vitamin C in the morning before your SPF is the most evidence-backed option. While niacinamide strengthens the skin barrier and has anti-inflammatory properties, making it useful for skin dealing with chronic pollution exposure. A good barrier-supporting moisturiser with ceramides and fatty acids helps maintain the lipid layer that pollution actively degrades. And double cleansing in the evening is worth taking seriously. Following this routine and using an air purifier daily has worked for me.

But “the levels of air pollution we are exposed to depend on factors like where we live, where we work, how we travel, how we cook our food, how we heat our homes and more. This means we all experience different levels of exposure to air pollution and therefore different impacts,” shares Price. A purifier in your house can’t protect your skin when you’re out and about, but using one at night is a meaningful intervention in the hours your skin has to repair itself, and that’s something.

As a melanated girlie, I’ve always been conscious of hyperpigmentation—when patches of skin appear darker than the surrounding area. I’ve spent most of my life trying to avoid it—think sun protection, acne control, preventative skincare and steering clear of aesthetic treatments that could trigger it. On the occasions it did rear its head, I was armed and ready with a host of devices and actives to even out my skin tone.

What I wasn’t prepared for, and knew very little about, was hypopigmentation. So, when it happened to me, I was flummoxed about how it had happened and what exactly the correct course of action was to treat it.

Hypopigmentation decoded

“Hypopigmentation is a reduction in the skin’s natural pigment, melanin, resulting in patches that appear lighter than the baseline skin tone, but it still retains some melanin activity. It’s often confused with vitiligo, but the two are distinct. Vitiligo is a chronic and complex autoimmune condition that involves the complete loss of melanin-producing cells,” explains aesthetic practitioner and Ace Skin Health Clinic founder, Corina Mihalache.

Around two years ago, I developed a circle of skin on my calf that looks completely devoid of pigment, while a bite that turned into a blister, and a laser hair removal mishap that burnt my skin also left me with light patches that stand out like a lighthouse amongst my darker skin.

Pigment-producing cells, called melanocytes, located in the top layer of the skin can’t function as they should when inflammation, trauma or excessive stress comes their way. “These melanocytes may remain present but no longer produce enough melanin, or they fail to transfer pigment efficiently to surrounding cells, and more severe damage can result in partial or complete destruction of the melanocytes,” says Mihalachi.

Inflammation is one of the most significant triggers; think conditions like eczema, acne, psoriasis, burns and aggressive aesthetic procedures can all trigger inflammation and disrupt normal melanocyte activity. In small doses, inflammation promotes healing—the body releases inflammatory mediators, aka the chemical messengers like histamines, cytokines, prostaglandins and leukotrienes that are all essential for healing. The issue is that when inflammation becomes chronic—and we may be fuelling it with our collective obsession with achieving ‘perfect’ skin.

“I have also noticed an increase in pigment disruption caused by over-treated skin, linked to the overuse of active skincare ingredients, particularly in patients who have unintentionally damaged their skin barrier through excessive exfoliation, strong acids, or prescription products used without professional guidance,” says Mihalachi. And it’s not just at-home skincare that could be to blame.

Some aesthetic treatments carry significant risk too. “Cryotherapy, aggressive lasers, deep chemical peels and improperly used energy devices can all suppress or permanently damage melanocytes,” reveals Mihalachi.

Hypopigmentation in darker skin tones

Just as hyperpigmentation is more of a concern for melanin-rich skin due to our more active pigment-producing cells, which are more reactive to any form of inflammation, trauma or sun exposure. Hypopigmentation can also be more concerning. Not only are we more prone to the condition thanks to our overachieving pigment-producing cells, but because when skin is darker, a loss of pigment is also significantly more visible than it would be on our lighter-skinned counterparts.

To avoid this fate, Mihalache urges patients and practitioners to err on the side of caution when it comes to skincare and treatments. Ditch overly aggressive actives, use conservative settings during treatments and follow an intensive healing aftercare protocol.

How to treat hypopigmentation

Whatever your skin tone, the fundamentals of treating hypopigmentation remain the same. “It can still be challenging, but our understanding has improved considerably over recent years. Earlier intervention, better recognition of inflammatory triggers and more targeted therapies are helping to improve outcomes for many patients,” shares Teresa O’Nwere-Tan, Advanced Nurse Practitioner & Founder of Tan&Co

For post-inflammatory hypopigmentation, treatment focuses on calming inflammation, restoring the skin barrier and encouraging melanocyte recovery. “Depending on the individual case, this may include topical anti-inflammatory medications, carefully selected light-based therapies and anti-inflammatory and barrier supportive skincare,” says O’Nwere-Tan.

Light therapy, specifically controlled medical phototherapy, is one of the most exciting treatment options for hypopigmentation, as it's highly effective at stimulating melanin production. LED is a great supportive light treatment that helps reduce inflammation, supports healing, and strengthens the skin barrier.

“Gentle microneedling with the likes of exosomes, peptides, polynucleotides, can help encourage melanocyte activity and improve overall pigment blending too,” reveals O’Nwere-Tan.

At home, the priority is rebuilding a healthy skin environment rather than aggressively targeting pigment loss itself. “Start with the basics: a gentle, non-stripping cleanser, a ceramide-rich moisturiser to restore barrier function, and SPF 50 every single day without exception. Once the skin is calm and the barrier is intact, vitamin C is worth introducing gradually. It supports antioxidant defence and helps address the oxidative stress that contributes to melanocyte disruption. Azelaic acid at 10-20 per cent is another useful option as it has anti-inflammatory properties, helps regulate melanocyte activity and is well tolerated across skin tones. Once fully stabilised, a low-strength retinoid can be introduced to support cell turnover and improve overall pigment distribution,” explains O’Nwere-Tan.

Managing expectations

When it comes to repigmentation, patience is key. I’ve experienced this first-hand, as it’s taken a whopping two years to see an improvement in mine, and there’s still a way to go. In milder post-inflammatory cases, Mihalachi says, “melanocyte function may begin to recover within four to twelve weeks. More moderate cases can take months to a year. But severe cases involving deep trauma or melanocyte destruction may not fully resolve.”

My aim is to keep treating my hypopigmentation at home and in clinic for another year and then reevaluate. O’Nwere-Tan thinks that’s wise: “In some cases the goal may shift to blending and stabilisation rather than complete reversal.” And that’s where cosmetic camouflage comes in, think tattooing but skin tone matching rather than a pretty design to hide my hypopigmentation. Alternatively, acceptance that skin tone can change—it’s not always even, and there’s no such thing as perfect.

Your hypopigmentation recovery kit

We all have distinguishable features. For the last ten years or so, mine have been the dark raised moles that appeared across my cheeks and temples during my late twenties. I wasn’t born with them. I woke up one day, and they were just… there. Initially, I liked them. The small dark brown moles formed a pattern that resembled a constellation of dark stars across my face. I’ve been affectionately called “freckle face” by close friends ever since.

But they weren’t freckles. The raised lesions across my cheeks and temples were dermatosis papulosa nigra—which may sound scary but are completely benign and harmless. These moles (see also: skin tags, freckles, lesions) are commonly found in darker skin tones and among people of African and Asian heritage. For Black and brown women in our 30s, they almost feel like a rite of passage. In a recent post on Threads, one user shared,” Any Black women turn 30, and all of a sudden get crazy moles!??” The post received hundreds of beautiful photos of Black and brown women sharing their moles and freckles that looked almost identical to my own. In this space, these common imperfections felt like something to celebrate. And yet, I have decided to remove mine via advanced electrolysis.

It’s been hard to admit that I didn’t want my DPN anymore. Removing my moles, which are a direct result of being melanated, felt somewhat in conflict with loving my brown skin and my blackness. Yet, when looking in the mirror (as I do often as a beauty journalist), I noticed they had begun to grow and cluster so much that you could pull and flick them. They migrated from my cheeks to take new homes on my forehead and chin. My cute “freckles,” which people had so often complimented, were starting to affect my confidence.

What actually causes Dermatosis Papulosa Nigra?

DPN is thought to be hereditary. My father had the same cluster of DPN moles at his temples, and so did my grandmother. Still, dermatologists aren’t exactly sure what causes their growth.

I spoke to London-based Consultant Dermatologist, Dr Derrick Phillips, who explained that DPN is “very common”. “It predominantly affects people with darker skin tones, and there is a strong genetic component, so it often runs in families,” he explained.

I was curious whether my stressful (however reasonably healthy) lifestyle had contributed to the growths. Dr Phillips explained that the exact cause isn't fully understood, though it's considered a variant of seborrhoeic keratoses—harmless skin growths.

What are the best DPN removal methods for Black and brown skin tones?

As a beauty journalist, I’ve spoken to many Black women who are intrigued by procedures to remove DPN but are extremely cautious. It’s understandable. For a long time, darker skin tones weren’t represented, nor included in scientific research for skincare and advanced skincare treatments.

When I first met Sam Marshall of the Omnia clinic, a specialist waxing, laser and electrolysis clinic in Manchester, I was assured that with advanced electrolysis, I could achieve blemish-free skin safely.

Sam Marshall is a beauty therapist and educator who also sits on the British Beauty Council’s DEI committee. With an established history of working with all skin tones, she confirmed that advanced electrolysis could reduce my DPN while preserving my skin.

In simple terms, advanced electrolysis uses a tiny probe that delivers an electric current to remove skin tags, moles, and milia. “We treat DPN with advanced electrolysis because it is more precise than other methods,” explained Marshall. Satisfying my curiosity, she demonstrated how the tiny probe delivers an electrical current that cauterises the blemish so it dries up to a crisp. “It’s all about safety,” Marshall added, “especially in Black skin, where the risks would be hyperpigmentation or even hypopigmentation.”

Other methods available for DPN removal include curettage, cryotherapy and melanin-safe laser treatment, such as CO2 or Erbium: YAG laser. Dr Phillips warned that some of these more aggressive treatments need to be “used with caution” in darker skin tones.

“There isn’t a single best treatment,” he explained. “It’s about selecting the most appropriate approach for the individual, particularly when treating darker skin tones, where the risk of pigmentary change needs to be carefully managed.”

My advanced electrolysis removal procedure and results

I’ll be straight with you. It can hurt. For each mole, you feel an acutely sharp burning sensation. But it’s over quickly. The process generally takes 20-30 minutes, depending on how many moles you have.

My treatment was completed over the course of four sessions to monitor how my skin heals and to ensure that there’s minimal damage to healthy skin tissue. This staged approach to the process was reassuring.

Days after my treatments, the DPN lesions would quite literally fall off — in my bed and when washing my face. I have been diligent with my sunscreen application and reapplication during this process. The fear of hyperpigmentation is always a concern. Upon recommendation, I’ve been using Heliocare’s Gel Oil-Free SPF 50 and Ultrasun sports spray SPF 50 when running outside.

I have one more treatment to go, and it will take a few months to see how well my skin heals, but right now, my scarring is imperceptible. The difference is very noticeable.

I thought I’d feel more emotional seeing my skin without the moles. I am a sentimental person and a creature of habit (I’ve had the same hairstyle for a decade), so I felt like I was waving goodbye to a part of me. I quickly got over it. When I woke up and washed my face, and my hand glided over my smoother skin, I knew I had made the right decision.

The aesthetics industry has come a long way in the last decade. There’s an array of complexion-enhancing injectables, a host of smarter and more inclusive devices, and many are a lot safer, too. But there’s a growing body of evidence suggesting that hormonal changes—specifically during perimenopause—may be one of the most significant and least-discussed drivers of how skin ages and how well it responds to treatment.

For those of us in our 30s and 40s who’re noticing our Botox is wearing off faster than it used to, our filler isn’t sitting quite right, or our skin is reacting to treatments it used to tolerate well—it’s probably not the treatment failing. It’s our hormones. And according to Dr Mayoni Gooneratne, integrative aesthetics specialist and founder of Skin Fit, the aesthetic industry has yet to catch up.

Perimenopause, explained

Before you reach menopause (which is the day you’ve gone 12 consecutive months without a period), you have to contend with perimenopause. It’s a long and often arduous transitional phase that can last anywhere from two to eight years, typically starting in a woman’s early-to-mid 40s, though it can begin as early as the mid-30s.

“Progesterone declines due to less frequent and less robust ovulation as our egg supply decreases. While oestrogen levels fluctuate wildly, sometimes spiking to higher levels than ever before, creating a hormonal rollercoaster effect. These more dramatic fluctuations, rather than simple declines, are what trigger many perimenopausal symptoms,” explains Gooneratne. Those symptoms include the ones we commonly associate with ‘the change’ —think mood swings, hot flashes, and night sweats —as well as many we don’t realise are hormone-related—like major changes in how we look.

How perimenopause affects your skin

Oestrogen is one of our skin’s secret weapons. It stimulates collagen production, maintains elasticity, triggers hyaluronic acid production and reinforces the ceramide and lipid layers that keep skin hydrated and protected. Beyond the surface, it dictates where and how much fat we hold in our face, and it's responsible for maintaining bone density and structural support. When oestrogen levels become erratic and eventually decline, everything starts to unravel. Cue, menopause-face.

“As the skin barrier weakens, ceramide levels drop, making skin drier, more reactive and less able to retain moisture. Over time, lower oestrogen levels also trigger a reduction in firmness and an accelerated breakdown of elastin. Eventually, we can lose up to 30 per cent of our skin's collagen within just the first five years after menopause, with an ongoing annual decline of approximately 2.1 per cent thereafter,” reveals Gooneratne.

But this all starts way before we hit menopause. Sudden dryness in previously oily skin, increased reactivity to products previously tolerated, dullness, loss of luminosity, hyperpigmentation around the mouth, neck and hairline as well as hollowing under the eyes, deepening nasolabial folds and jowling, are all little clues that you’re in perimenopause, even if you’re not getting hot flashes and headaches.

How perimenopause affects aesthetic treatments

Perimenopause doesn’t just change how your face looks, it also changes how your skin responds to intervention.

“A compromised skin barrier with reduced ceramide levels makes skin more reactive and prone to inflammation following procedures. Declining collagen and elastin production weakens the structural scaffolding that supports injected fillers, potentially affecting how products integrate and how long results last. Disrupted sleep—common in perimenopause—impairs the skin's natural healing and regeneration processes, potentially slowing recovery and compromising optimal treatment outcomes. Alongside that, the hormonal fluctuations themselves create a less stable treatment environment, as skin characteristics may vary significantly depending on where a woman is in her perimenopausal cycle,” explains Gooneratne.

When it comes to wrinkle-relaxing injections (botulinum toxin) like Botox, they often wear off faster during perimenopause due to a combination of hormonal drops, accelerated collagen loss, and shifting metabolism. Essentially when oestrogen does start to drop, the skin thins and loses elasticity, this causes the treated muscles to "pull" through the skin more quickly, while overall hormone shifts can alter your metabolic rate and speed up how quickly your body breaks down and clears the botulinum toxin from your system.

And then there’s cortisol. The increased cortisol sensitivity during perimenopause creates a heightened inflammatory response, meaning treatments that involve any degree of tissue trauma (microneedling, lasers, radiofrequency, hifu, peels and injectables) can cause more pronounced swelling, longer downtime, and an increased risk of adverse reactions. “This isn’t genuine treatment failure, but rather a mismatch between what the treatment can deliver and what the hormonally-changing skin actually needs,” believes Gooneratne.

How to approach menopause-face

The solution isn’t to stop having treatments altogether; it’s to approach them differently. Dr Gooneratne argues that hormone-informed consultations should be the standard, not the exception. “Practitioners should be asking questions they currently aren’t,” she says. Questions like, has your cycle changed in regularity or flow? Do you have symptoms like hot flashes, night sweats, sleep disruption, increased anxiety or brain fog? Have previously successful treatments stopped delivering the same results? “This conversation should normalise perimenopause as a relevant factor in aesthetic outcomes and position treatment planning as a collaborative process,” adds Gooneratne.

In terms of what we can do, addressing our hormone levels is key. Hormonal replacement therapy (HRT) can help restore collagen production, improve barrier function and reduce inflammatory sensitivity, creating a more stable environment for treatments to work in. But equally, lifestyle interventions can be massively helpful too. “Prioritising sleep architecture through consistent sleep-wake times, managing stress through nervous system regulation rather than chronic high-intensity exercise, stabilising blood sugar through balanced meal timing, and correcting nutrient deficiencies - all improve the skin's baseline responsiveness,” shares Gooneratne.

When it comes to the outside, aka our skin, it just takes a little more prep and planning to get the results you desire from your treatments. Gooneratne advises, “barrier repair through ceramide-containing products and appropriate hydration strategies to create skin that's less reactive and better able to tolerate procedures. Treatment timing may need to be adjusted to account for hormonal fluctuations within the perimenopausal cycle, and protocols may need modification—gentler approaches, longer intervals between treatments, or combination strategies that support skin health alongside cosmetic correction.”

If this sounds like you...

So, it turns out that if you’re perimenopausal, what you’re experiencing isn’t necessarily treatment failure. It’s your body entering a new hormonal phase that changes how your skin behaves and responds. “This isn’t your fault, and it’s not that you’ve become difficult to treat, it’s that the standard aesthetic approach hasn’t yet caught up to the reality that hormonal ageing requires a different, more comprehensive strategy than chronological ageing alone,” says Gooneratne.

If your practitioner doesn’t ask you about your hormonal health, share it with them anyway (or find someone who does). When you factor in how perimenopause impacts the skin, you’ll likely find you’ll start getting the results you want out of your favourite in-clinic treatments.

Our skin needs different things at different times of the year, and by the time summer comes around, I’m always desperate to swap my rich moisturising cream for a lighter and more refreshing alternative. I find that my skin needs more hydration in the summer, whereas in the winter it needs more occlusive moisturisation.

When choosing a summer moisturiser, it’s important to think about your skin type and how your makeup typically holds up in warm weather. Summer is the season where sweating increases, more rigorous SPF application is required, and cool-downs are always welcome, so choosing a moisturiser for this season requires some thought.

I spoke to 14 fellow beauty editors I trust – all with different skin types – to find out their holy grail moisturiser for summer. And I’ve got to be honest, some of them surprised me. No matter what your skin type and requirements, I guarantee that there’s a summer moisturiser on this list that will work for you.

Summer moisturisers: Quick shopping links

• Glow Recipe Watermelon Milk Peptide Cushion Cream - £35, Sephora
• Clarins Extra Firming Energy Day Cream - £79, Sephora
• Charlotte Tilbury Magic Cream - £79, Cult Beauty
• Cle de Peau Beaute Exclusive UV Protective Cream SPF 50 – £98, Look Fantastic
• Clinique Dramatically Different Moisturizing Lotion+™ - £37, Look Fantastic

Best Summer Moisturisers to Shop Now

The coming of summer only means one thing: it's time to get on top of your body care. More time in the sun makes SPF a non-negotiable, but further nourishing your skin to cope with shaving, dry weather, salty sea water, and stripping chlorine can make all the difference. Body moisturisers with SPF are the one-step addition to your routine that tick every box.

Where they differ from regular body SPFs is the hydrating ingredients that you get alongside UV protection. Rather than applying your body cream and sunscreen separately, you can kill two birds with one stone and enjoy minimal drying time. This also makes them ideal for seasonal travel when you're packing light.

Much like SPF moisturisers for the face, our tried and tested edit of body moisturisers with SPF can be trusted to stay non-greasy, sink in effortlessly, and offer lasting protection.

Best body moisturisers with SPF: Quick shopping links

• Best everyday: Bondi Sands SPF 50+ Everyday Lotion, £16 at LookFantastic (save 20%)
• High protection: Supergoop! Play Everyday Lotion SPF 50, £18.40 at LookFantastic (save 20%)
• Best premium: Aesop Protective Body Lotion SPF 50, £33 at Cult Beauty
• Most affordable: Nivea Soft Daily UV SPF 15, £3.33 at Amazon (save 70%)
• Best for deep hydration: Vaseline Healthy Bright Sun Protection Body Lotion SPF 30, £15.59 at Amazon
• Best for glow: Caudalie High Protection Glow Oil SPF 50, £17.60 at LookFantastic (save 20%)
• Best for shimmer: Nuxe Sun Oil Shimmering Gold SPF 50, £23.60 at LookFantastic (save 20%)
• Best for sensitive skin: Aveeno Protect + Hydrate Moisturizing Body Sun Lotion, £39.98 at Amazon

When I'm asked by friends for skincare tips, I always have the same answer: wear suncream on your face every day. Yes, even in winter, and even when it's grey and cloudy. However, if you're someone who frequently wears makeup, it can be tempting to forgo SPF to avoid the oh-so-common pilling, chalkiness, or dryness that can cause your base products to cling and flake. But fear not, there are countless SPFs for under makeup that will provide protection and keep your foundation smooth and radiant.

Whether you prefer a nourishing SPF moisturiser or need a gentle SPF for sensitive skin, there's a formula that will work under a full face. Prioritising milky sunscreens and moisturising ingredients is a shortcut to a smooth base to apply your makeup on top of, but there are heavy-duty mineral formulas that are just as reliable.

As a daily suncream wearer and someone who wears makeup for a large chunk of the week, I've narrowed down the very vest SPFs for under makeup at all price points.

SPF for under makeup: Quick shopping links

• Best overall: £78.40 at LookFantastic
• Most affordable: £11.19 at LookFantastic
• Best for priming: £29 at Beauty Pie
• Best tinted: £13.60 at LookFantastic
• Best mineral: £29.20 at LookFantastic
• Best nourishing: £47 at LookFantastic
• Best everyday: £31 at Space NK
• Best for sensitive skin: £11.89 at Amazon

Best SPFs for under makeup, tried & tested

Medik8 has built its reputation on creating formulas that actually work. So when the brand launched its latest serum—one rooted in PDRN technology, the skin-regenerating ingredient taking over the beauty world—it felt like a development worth paying attention to. Plus, as a long-standing convert to the brand, I didn't need much convincing to put it to the test.

Building the perfect skincare routine is no small feat—and as someone who tests skincare for a living and considers themselves something of an ingredients geek, I know better than most how rarely a single formula genuinely moves the needle. But every so often, something comes along that cuts through the noise: a do-it-all formula that works across skin types and actually delivers on its promises. This, I'd argue, is one such launch. Clinical studies back it up, too—Medik8 reports visible improvement across seven skin metrics in as little as seven days.

How to apply the Medik8 Exo-PDRN Prismatic+ Serum?

This lightweight, non-sticky, runny gel-textured serum is designed to be applied morning and evening, following cleansing. Studies show it can improve the appearance of your skin in just 7 days, making it look more youthful and rejuvenated.

You do need to apply it twice daily to see those fast results, which will improve further with continued use. In fact, it can rewind the clock back years in just 28 days. Its hydrating texture sits beautifully under any other serums you choose to apply on top.

What’s so good about the Medik8 Exo-PDRN Prismatic+ Serum?

At the heart of the formula are three hero ingredients: a Triple Exosome Complex, vegan Prismatic PDRN and growth-factor mini proteins—each chosen for their ability to work at a cellular level rather than simply sitting on the skin's surface.

Exosomes, if you're not already across them, are one of skincare's more quietly revolutionary developments. Acting as cellular messengers, they instruct skin cells to repair and function as they should—a communication system that naturally slows as we age. By flooding the skin with exosomes, this serum essentially prompts it to behave younger: renewing, rejuvenating and, on the surface at least, delivering the smoother, more radiant result that tends to follow.

Typically derived from salmon DNA, PDRN is an ingredient with impressive regenerative credentials—but its efficacy hinges entirely on how it's formulated. Penetration is the sticking point, and many versions simply don't get deep enough to do their best work. Medik8's solution is Prismatic PDRN: a vegan, specially engineered alternative optimised for absorption. Once it reaches the deeper layers, it promotes tissue repair, reduces inflammation, and stimulates collagen and elastin production, resulting in calmer, firmer, more even-toned skin over time.

The third pillar, growth-factor mini proteins, works in a similar vein: stimulating collagen and elastin, encouraging cell turnover and boosting the skin's own hyaluronic acid levels for a plumper, more luminous finish with fewer lines and less visible sagging.

Taken together, these three ingredients form a formula designed to encourage the skin to behave as it did when it was younger and healthier. The clinical data supports this—visible rejuvenation from as little as seven days—and it's equally well-suited to anyone looking to support skin recovery after an in-clinic procedure as it is to those building a long-term approach to ageing well.

A beauty editor’s honest review

Most of this serum’s claims are promised in just seven days—improved barrier function, improved firmness, improved luminosity, visibly improved skin health, visibly improved skin tone, visibly improved skin volume, and visibly improved wrinkles. So, I stopped all my other serums and at-home skin treatments and applied just this and a basic moisturiser morning and evening for seven days, to see what would happen. And, my friend, it delivered.

Whilst the results aren’t, I’m sure, as staggering as you would expect after 28 days of use, I’m still very happy with the outcome and can’t wait to keep using this serum. I’ve not come across any other serums that have offered such good results as quickly as this, especially at a cellular level, where it really counts.

Immediately on use, my skin felt more hydrated and plumper. After a few days, I really visibly noticed that increased plumpness, and my skin just looked healthier, calmer, and glowier. After a week, the redness around my nose and mouth (left over from my last bout of perioral dermatitis) was less visible, any red blemish pigmentation I had had calmed and disappeared faster than normal, and my skin felt bouncier to the touch. My skin looked rested and healthy, like I’d been sleeping perfectly and drinking the right amount of water (if only). Sure, nobody is going to be stopping me in the street asking me what I’ve done to my face, but those are still very promising results in such a short amount of time. I’m excited to see my skin after a month of using this serum.

As a beauty editor, I road-test a steady stream of age-defying, SPF-packed formulas—always on my hands first, and almost exclusively on the right. Years of this lopsided routine have started to show: my right hand now looks smugly well-preserved, while the left appears a little more… weathered.

Hands are often the first place ageing shows up. Pigmentation, thinning skin, and that gradual loss of elasticity—much of it accelerated by UV exposure. According to Holly Mason, skin health expert and founder of The Skin Investment Clinic, the issue is less about adding something new and more about correcting a long-standing blind spot. “The hands are chronically underprotected and overexposed,” she explains. “Unlike the face, which most people have incorporated into a skincare routine for years, the hands are almost always bare – no SPF, no antioxidants, no barrier support.”

It’s a point that immediately lands. Hand cream has always lived in the ‘nice-to-have’ camp for me—something I reach for in moments of dryness, not a daily essential. SPF, meanwhile, is non-negotiable for my face, but on my hands? Largely overlooked. Which feels like an oversight when you consider how exposed they are—wrapped around a coffee, scrolling a phone, gripping the car wheel—rarely, if ever, protected.

Why do we need to protect our hands?

"The skin on the back of the hands is inherently thin, with very little subcutaneous fat, so volume loss, prominent veins, and pigmentation changes become visible much earlier,” explains Mason. Add in years of UV exposure and constant hand washing, and it’s not hard to see why they age faster. Consultant dermatologist Dr Aiza Jamil echoes this, noting that hands are “one of the most revealing, yet overlooked, areas of the body affected by the sun,” as they have less natural oil and therefore greater vulnerability to environmental stressors.

“UVA penetrates deep into the dermis, breaking down collagen and elastin, and triggering melanin dysregulation,” says Mason. The difference is that, while the face benefits from what she calls the 'halo effect' of skincare—daily SPF, antioxidants, moisturisers—the hands are left almost entirely exposed.

Is SPF on your hands as important as it is on the face?

In short, yes—arguably more so. “Pigmentation on the hands is notoriously difficult to treat once established,” says Mason. While in-clinic treatments like BBL and Halo laser can deliver impressive results, she’s clear that prevention is far simpler. Dr Jamil agrees: “UV radiation is the primary external cause of premature ageing… applying SPF on the hands can help prevent pigmentation, loss of elasticity, and reduce the risk of skin cancers.” As for the level of protection, both experts are aligned here. “SPF 50 as a minimum, broad-spectrum,” advises Mason, adding that there’s “no clinical rationale for using a lower factor on the hands than on the face.” Dr Jamil suggests SPF 30 as a baseline, but agrees that SPF 50 offers a more reliable level of protection, particularly during extended exposure or daily driving.

A dedicated SPF vs SPF in hand creams?

“A quality SPF 50 hand cream can do the job for daily incidental exposure,” says Mason, but only if you’re applying enough. The reality is that most of us don’t. Dr Jamil is similarly pragmatic: “Hand creams with SPF can be helpful, but they’re often applied too sparingly to achieve the correct protection.” Her advice is to layer—sunscreen first, then a hand cream if your skin relies on it—especially if you’re spending time outdoors.

Reapplication, unsurprisingly, is where things tend to fall apart. Water, soap, and alcohol-based sanitisers break down sunscreen rapidly, so topping up isn’t optional if you want meaningful protection. “Reapply every two hours if you’re spending time outdoors, and always immediately after washing your hands,” says Mason.

If you’re in an office environment away from direct sunlight, you don’t need to reapply constantly; applying it in the morning as part of your routine will largely cover you. Where it breaks down, explains Mason, is the commute, lunch breaks outside, or sitting near large windows, "where UVA exposure is more significant than most people realise."

A case for SPF hand creams

If a multitasking hand SPF is what gets you to apply – and reapply – then it’s a step worth taking. It's also worth noting that many now go beyond UV filters to address the concerns that tend to show up first on the hands—pigmentation, loss of elasticity, that tell-tale crepey texture, and persistent dryness. Brightening ingredients such as niacinamide and vitamin C derivatives work to soften existing sun spots, while peptides and antioxidants support firmer, smoother-looking skin over time. Add in modern hydrators—glycerin, hyaluronic acid, ceramides—and you get formulas that feel closer to a proper hand treatment than a sunscreen afterthought.

In other words, hand SPF is no longer just about prevention—it’s about correction, too. And that’s what makes it worth committing to.

The best hand creams with SPF

The older I get, the more my skin seems to throw out the occasional curveball—mysterious lumps, bumps, pimples and marks, things that weren’t there yesterday suddenly catch my eye. Some I can brush off as part of the deal; others have me deep in a late-night Google spiral. One minute it’s 'oh, it's fine,' the next I’m three tabs in, trying to figure out exactly what I’m looking at.

While we’re all well-versed in blackheads and the occasional whitehead, plenty of other skin bumps—milia, ingrown hairs, skin tags—tend to appear unannounced and come with far less clarity on what to do next. The instinct? Pick, prod, and attempt to ‘fix’ it. But before you go anywhere near your skin with well-intentioned fingers, it’s worth knowing this: most aren’t problems to be solved—they’re patterns to understand.

Ahead, dermatologists break down what these so-called ‘random’ bumps actually are, which can be helped at home, and the ones to leave well alone.

Milia: the tiny white bumps that won’t budge

If you’ve ever stared at a small, pearly white bump and thought,“Why won’t this just pop?”—chances are it’s milia. These are tiny keratin-filled cysts that sit just under the surface of the skin, and despite appearances, they’re not built to be squeezed. “They are medically harmless but cosmetically frustrating,” explains Dr Richard Devine, aesthetic doctor and founder of Devine Clinic. “While they don’t pose a health risk, they disrupt skin texture, which is why they catch your eye.”

The problem is, they’re closed up. “With milia, you’re essentially pushing against a sealed cyst, so the contents can’t escape without creating a wound,” adds dermatologist Dr Alma Kamenica. “That leads to broken skin, irritation and often post-inflammatory pigmentation.”

Can you pick them? Absolutely not. These are firmly in the hands-off category. If they bother you, professional extraction is the safest option.

Skin tags: harmless, but not DIY-friendly

Skin tags are soft, flesh-coloured growths that tend to appear where there’s friction—think neck, underarms or along the bra line. They’re incredibly common and, medically speaking, nothing to worry about. “Small skin tags are very common and generally won’t cause any medical issues,” says Dr Ahmed El Muntasar, GP, Aesthetics Doctor and owner of The Aesthetics Doctor. “They tend to sit on the skin without changing.” That doesn’t mean you should take matters into your own hands. “Skin tags can bleed and become inflamed if pulled,” says Dr Kamenica. In other words, attempting to remove them yourself usually ends in more drama than it’s worth.

Can you pick them? No. Leave removal to a professional to avoid bleeding and irritation.

Comedones: the ones you might be able to tackle

This is where things get a little more complex. Comedones include both blackheads (open pores) and whiteheads (closed pores), and they’re often the bumps we’re most familiar with. “Superficial whiteheads are generally safe to extract at home if done properly,” explains Dr El Muntasar. Dr Devine agrees, noting that “superficial whiteheads, very minor blackheads… [can be] safe in some cases.”

But—and it’s a big but—technique matters. “If a whitehead is clearly formed with a visible tip, you can gently release it after cleansing the skin and softening it with warmth,” says Dr Devine. “Use clean hands or wrapped cotton buds (not nails) and apply light, even pressure. Stop if it doesn’t release easily.”

Can you pick them? Sometimes—but only if they’re very superficial, with a visible head, and you’re gentle. Anything deeper? Leave it.

Ingrown hairs: proceed with caution

Ingrown hairs can be equal parts annoying and tempting to meddle with—especially when they’re sitting just beneath the surface. “Occasional ingrown hairs can also be managed at home, but only if the hair is already visible,” says Dr El Muntasar. The key here is restraint. “Only lift the hair out if it’s already visible at the surface—don’t dig,” adds Dr Devine. Tweezers are fine, but only to gently guide the hair out, not to go searching for it.

Can you pick them? Only if the hair is clearly visible and easy to lift. No digging, no squeezing.

Cystic acne: step away from the mirror

If it’s deep, painful and lingering beneath the surface, you’re likely dealing with cystic acne—and this is where picking does the most damage. “Leave alone: cystic acne, inflamed spots… anything firm, deep or persistent,” advises Dr Devine. These types of blemishes sit too far under the skin to be safely extracted at home. Dr Kamenica adds: “If it’s painful, deep, growing, repeatedly returning, or doesn’t have a visible head, it’s not one to pick.” And yet, these are often the ones we’re most tempted to go after. “Picking gives a short-term sense of control,” says Dr Devine, “even though it often leads to more inflammation, pigmentation or scarring.”

Can you pick them? No. This is one for targeted treatments or professional help.

Pustules: tempting but not advised

These are the ones most of us think of as a 'proper' spot—a red bump with a white or yellow centre that looks, frankly, ready to go. But while they might seem like fair game, there’s more going on beneath the surface. They form when inflammation meets bacteria and your skin’s immune response, which is why interfering rarely ends well. “Squeezing can push the contents deeper into the skin and spread bacteria,” explains Dr Ahmed El Muntasar, “particularly in high-risk areas like around the nose or between the brows, where infections can become more serious.”

Can you pick them? While they might look 'ready,' squeezing can drive bacteria deeper, but if you really can't resist, the key is hygiene and restraint.

If you are going to pick, here’s how to do it safely

Let’s be realistic—most of us will, at some point. The key is minimising damage. “The only ones that are reasonably safe are very superficial whiteheads and some ingrown hairs where the hair is already visible,” says Dr El Muntasar. “The key is hygiene and restraint.”

1. Cleanse thoroughly first (ideally post-shower when skin is softened)

2. Use clean hands or cotton buds—not nails

3. Apply gentle, even pressure

4. If it doesn’t come out easily, stop

What about preventing scars?

This is where most people slip up. It’s rarely the bump itself that causes scarring—it’s what we do to it. “When you try to pick things like milia or skin tags, you are essentially creating trauma in the skin,” says Dr El Muntasar. “That leads to inflammation, potential scarring and sometimes pigmentation.” Instead, focus on prevention. Prevention is key. “Chemical exfoliants like salicylic acid help keep pores clear, while retinoids support cell turnover,” says Dr Kamenica. Hydrocolloid patches can also help—both as a treatment and a physical barrier to stop you touching the area.

When should you see a professional?

“If it’s painful, deep, growing, repeatedly returning, or doesn’t have a visible head, it’s not one to pick,” says Dr Kamenica. “Anything that lingers for weeks or worsens with touching is better assessed professionally.” Dr El Muntasar agrees: “If anything changes—size, colour, shape, bleeding—that’s when you should have a very low threshold to see a professional.”

Because while most bumps are harmless, the goal isn’t to play guessing games with your skin—it’s to understand it, treat it properly, and, occasionally, leave it alone.

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

Ever struggled with your blush placement? Or needed a quick plan to battle a surprise breakout? What about a tool to analyse your skincare routine in depth? Well, now there's an AI mirror for that.

In what could feel like a Black Mirror episode, SWAN has recently launched its $795 (USD) 'Smart' mirror, promising to be your new beauty BFF. Given just how much of a presence artificial intelligence now has in the way we do our makeup, skincare and hair, it was only a matter of time before something like this popped up—but how exactly does it work?

What is the SWAN AI Mirror?

The mirror is being positioned as a unique beauty tool, totally new to the market and unlike anything seen before. It's designed to offer users expert-like advice on skin and makeup, from the comfort of their own home.

Colby Mitchell, Co-founder of SWAN Beauty, created the mirror to offer users an innovative experience: “The SWAN Beauty platform was born out of a very personal frustration with conventional beauty routines that often feel overwhelming. I wanted something smarter: a more streamlined, personalised experience that would genuinely empower people to make informed decisions about their routines."

She continues: "It took nearly five years of dedicated development, extensive research, and deep listening to understand what users actually needed. The result is a platform that integrates advanced technology to enhance product selection, application techniques, and ongoing beauty education.”

Key features include face mapping, AR try-on (think: Cher Horowitz’s wardrobe, but for beauty), and AI skin analysis to offer bespoke skincare advice and makeup guidance for your daily routine. The innovation is also being promoted as a way to build community; users can connect with fellow beauty fans online on an exclusive platform to share their looks and ‘like’ each other’s beauty creations.

There's also a 'Marketplace' section, where you can shop for products and keep up with news from specific beauty brands.

What are the benefits?

When I first read about this innovation, I let out a small squeal of joy: this sounds like the device for beauty lovers. The Makeup Artist feature particularly excited me, as I'm always struggling to place products correctly and to know what looks good. It certainly looks like there are some cool benefits to having a tool like this; for one, it feels like a fun, modern experience.

Consultant Dermatologist Dr Sidra Khan believes there are certain elements to the mirror that can benefit users most. "I think the makeup and routine-coaching functions may be the strongest features," she says. "The guided makeup placement is a practical and relatively low-risk use of facial recognition technology, particularly for people learning contour, blush placement or brows."

She continues: "The video and lighting functions also make content creation and GRWM filming much easier, which clearly aligns with how beauty is now consumed and shared."

Dr Sonia Khorana, Cosmetic Doctor & Dermatology Expert agrees that there is plenty to be excited about here, on the skincare side too: "The mirror is intriguing because it offers the promise of real-time skin analysis and personalised product recommendations. It could be a helpful tool for tracking changes over time, spotting early signs of dryness, pigmentation, or acne, and encouraging consistent skincare routines."

The main drawbacks and concerns

Despite being an exciting prospect, there are potential drawbacks to having a device like this, the first being cost. At $795 (USD), this certainly isn't a tool that's accessible to everybody. However, Mitchell explains that to address this, the brand built the full platform experience into its app as well. "For $9.95 a month, or $94 annually, you get access to all of the same features. The subscription includes the Skin Analyzer, SmARt Makeup Artist, our content community, and shoppable marketplace.”

There's also a concern from a dermatologist's point of view that skincare analysis and advice provided by AI may not be entirely accurate and cannot replace real, IRL care. "It shouldn’t replace an in-person assessment. AI can miss subtleties like texture, inflammation, or underlying skin conditions that require a professional eye," says Khorana, advising it's best kept as "a supplement, not a substitute, for expert advice."

To their credit, SWAN Beauty acknowledges it's a tool designed "to complement professional advice, not replace it," and that it "works with a carefully curated roster of experts whose knowledge is now embedded directly into the platform." This will give prospective users confidence, although it may raise the question: 'Is this really worth buying if I also have to pay for an [often costly] IRL derm as well?'

Another concern is whether a product like this could promote unrealistic beauty standards, especially in a world where AI-generated imagery is rife. "It may encourage overanalysing minor or imagined imperfections, which can heighten anxiety or obsessive habits around skin," says Khorana.

Khan adds: "I am mindful of the psychological side: repeated scoring of texture, symmetry, redness, pores, or wrinkles can encourage hypervigilance around normal skin variation, which may be unhelpful for individuals prone to perfectionism, appearance anxiety, or body dysmorphic tendencies." As someone who's not yet tried the mirror, I cannot speak to these anxieties personally – but it's something to consider for potential buyers.

To this concern, Mitchell responds: "Beauty is deeply subjective, and the platform is meant to serve as a tool for self-care and healthy skin, rather than imposing unrealistic standards."

Where can you buy the SWAN mirror?

The mirror is being sold on SWAN's US website for $795. "As for the UK, SWAN Beauty is available through our European division and we're genuinely excited to be part of the conversation as we continue to grow globally," says Mitchell.

Laser treatments have become one of the most in-demand routes to smoother, clearer, more even-looking skin—but the reality is far less plug-and-play than the glossy before-and-afters suggest. The results can be transformative, yes, but they’re also surprisingly dependent on the details: your skin tone, your prep, your aftercare, and—crucially—your expectations. It’s this gap between promise and reality that often catches people out. And while clinics have never been more accessible, experts say too many patients are still walking in underprepared—risking disappointment at best, irritation at worst.

Here, leading specialists, Dr Stefanie Williams, cosmetic dermatologist, and
founder of Eudelo clinic, and leading skin and laser expert, Debbie Thomas, share the insider advice they wish every client knew before committing, from the non-negotiables to the easy-to-overlook mistakes that can make or break your results.

1. Self tan is a hard no

“Self tan isn’t just a nuisance, it is a contraindication,” says Dr Stefanie Williams. The reason is more technical than many realise: self-tan creates an artificial pigment in the skin that mimics melanin, meaning the laser can’t distinguish between the two. This causes excess heat to build in the upper layers of the skin, significantly increasing the risk of burns, blistering and post-inflammatory pigmentation. Both experts agree—skip it entirely in the run-up to treatment.

2. Laser isn’t one-size-fits-all

As Thomas explains, one of the most common misunderstandings is assuming that a laser is a single, universal treatment. In reality, it spans a spectrum of technologies designed for entirely different concerns—from acne and redness to pigmentation and scarring. "Each comes with its own level of intensity, downtime and results," which is why she stresses that the most important question isn’t whether to have laser, but which type is right for your skin—and what it can realistically achieve.

3. Hormones may outweigh the laser’s ‘power’

Conditions like PCOS with high androgens can make laser more stubborn, so being realistic with how many sessions you need is important. "In those cases, don’t blame the laser—blame your hormones," says Williams. There's caution while pregnant or breastfeeding, too, due to the body being hypersensitive and reactive. The only laser treatment Thomas is confident in performing is Byonik, designed to restore skin health without heat or irritation. "This is a pulse-triggered cold laser which uses a non-thermal laser wavelength to help with skin healing, repair and rejuvenation."

4. Stronger doesn’t mean better

There’s a tendency to equate intensity with efficacy, but Thomas is clear that this is a myth. The best outcomes come down to practitioner expertise, not power settings. Choosing someone experienced—particularly with your skin type and concern—ensures the treatment is calibrated properly, delivering results without unnecessary risk. In laser, precision will always trump aggression.

5. Not all pigmentation should be treated

While lasers can be transformative for certain types of pigmentation, such as solar lentigines (or sun spots) and mottled pigmentation of chronic sun damage, Williams cautions against a blanket approach. Conditions like melasma, in particular, can respond unpredictably—often improving initially before rebounding. “You may end up with worse melasma than when you started,” she warns, emphasising the importance of expert diagnosis and choosing the right treatment pathway from the outset.

6. Lasers are not a 'wash and go' treatment

“What you do after your appointment has a significant impact on your final result,” says Williams, who highlights the importance of strict SPF in the weeks that follow. "We may even advise an 8-week pre-treatment with a topical anti-pigment product, before an appointment." Thomas agrees, noting that aftercare is often underestimated. "Your practitioner will give you a protocol for a reason; what to avoid, what to use, and when your skin's ready to go back to normal," she explains, noting that, as well as an SPF, using a recovery product that supports repair, such as a calming, hydrating serum, and sometimes with growth factors, can help. She describes good results as a "360 approach” rather than a single in-clinic moment.

7. Lasers need to be planned around your life, not squeezed into it

"Because certain lasers temporarily weaken the skin barrier and increase photosensitivity, we genuinely need to know about your upcoming holidays, weddings or important work events," adds Williams. "I wish more people booked backwards from key dates, instead of squeezing in 'one last treatment' right before a sunny holiday or a big event." Thomas echoes this, adding that a thorough consultation should factor in everything from recent sun exposure to social plans—ensuring treatment is both safe and well-timed.

8. Past treatment can make or break the results

"Previous peels, medical needling, and certain other treatments can make the skin behave differently," explains Williams. This includes slower healing, more risk of pigment changes or even increased risk of scarring, so you must disclose everything. "Don’t omit mentioning certain treatments done elsewhere because you don’t deem them relevant."

The idea that what we eat and drink affects our skin to some degree isn't new, but we’ve really run with it. Today, you can find millions of videos online about how you can eat your way to better skin. Urging viewers to include daily carrot juice as a way to “get your retinol” to help with ageing and skin cell renewal. More sardines for healthy, glowing, hydrated skin. Broccoli and citrus fruits for vitamin C, to boost a glow. While seriously healthy and delicious, it sounds almost too good to be true.

“What is new is the way it’s showing up culturally. The trend has taken off on TikTok, where we’re seeing concepts like “eat your retinol” or “drink your glow”… reframing skincare through the lens of food” explains Jess Sepel, Founder of JSHealth Vitamins & Expert Nutritionist. “At its core, though, the message is much more grounded. It’s about recognising that your skin reflects what’s happening internally.”

“Food plays an important role in skin health. Getting enough essential nutrients—particularly vitamins, minerals, healthy fats, and protein—supports normal skin function. Deficiencies in key nutrients can negatively affect the skin, hair, and nails,” says Dr Alicia Gonzalez-Fernandez, NHS GP and aesthetic doctor.

However, the “eat your skincare” trend reframes skincare into a lifestyle, and I can see why it has taken off in the way it has. In an era where wellness is as much an identity as it is a practice, “eating your skincare” feels like a cleaner, more active, more optimised way to take charge of your skin than simply applying a serum.

The science behind oral skincare

Of course, this is not to completely dismiss the trend and, importantly, the idea behind it. “Oral skincare—targeted supplementation designed to support skin health—can complement a nutrient-rich diet," says Lorraine Perretta, Head of Nutrition at Advanced Nutrition Programme. "Clinical research shows that certain nutrients, including vitamin C, carotenoids, and specific polyphenols, can contribute to skin structure and protection when taken orally. The key is consistency and synergy: nourishing the skin both topically and systemically.”

We can’t dispute the science. Sardines are rich in omega-3s, which are known to have anti-inflammatory effects that support hydration and even acne. Carrot juice has beta-carotene, which the body converts into vitamin A (otherwise known as retinoids like retinol). But is that the same as applying your skincare topically? Can you get the same effects?

“In practice, the science is more nuanced than the trend suggests. While nutrition can meaningfully support skin function, it cannot replicate the targeted biochemical action of topical actives,” explains Nicola Bradshaw, Medical Herbalist and Nutritionist.

This is where the trend becomes a little murky. The language of skincare—retinol, collagen, hydration—has been borrowed and used in many ways to control what we eat, but the mechanisms are not as easily interchangeable. Drinking carrot juice is not the same as applying retinol; eating vitamin C is not the same as using a serum designed to penetrate the skin barrier. They work differently.

“Topical skincare works directly on the skin’s surface and within its upper layers. In contrast, diet and oral skincare support the underlying biological processes from deep within the skin to maintain skin health from the inside, and additionally support skin over the entire body and not just where creams are applied topically,” explains Perretta. “The skin is a two-sided organ. Treating it both from the inside and the outside achieves 100% skincare. Diet and topical skincare serve complementary but fundamentally different roles.”

The confusion isn’t accidental; it’s part of a broader wellness economy that thrives on blurring those lines and getting us hooked on a cycle of self-optimisation under the guise of wellness. The fact is, “you can’t “eat” your way to the same effect as a targeted topical active. And equally, you can’t out-product a body that isn’t supported internally” says Sepel.

The importance of topical ingredients

Sadly, not as delicious as a carrot, ginger and apple juice, topical products still have a role in our skincare routine. I can’t lie, I’ve been enjoying the process of getting out my Ninja blender and having juice in the morning. I definitely feel good; changes in my skin—that’s still undetermined. It’s the ritual aspect that has supercharged this trend, combined with the fact that we’re always looking for the next big “quick” fix. But the irony is, it’s all about the long game when it comes to eating your skincare. “Diet alone is not enough to maintain skin health. Skin health is influenced more strongly by sun exposure, genetics, hormones, and skincare habits. The most effective approach is synergy” adds Dr Gonzalez-Fernandez.

While it all seems relatively healthy, taking “medical” advice from social media should be approached with caution. According to the National Centre for Complementary and Integrative Health, about 79 per cent of internet users look for health tips on social media, which is absolutely frightening. Our feeds are rife with non-expert “experts” dishing out medical advice, often with the confidence of authority but without the education and training to back it up. And while encouraging more carrot juice, carrot salad, and sardines may seem healthy on the surface, humans need variety. Too much of one thing is never a good thing.

Call me a sceptic, social media trends are never what they seem. All the doctors I've spoken to have said the same thing: don't use social media as your primary source of medical advice.

So, the main takeaway: eating your way to better skin is a good idea, but it’s not a substitute for topical skincare. Most importantly, eating healthier — with your skin in mind — and maintaining a consistent skincare routine can work together, and you could even supercharge your results. That’s not hype, it’s just science.

The nutrients we consume support skin structure at a systemic level, influencing collagen production, immune defence, and cell turnover, while topical skincare acts locally, helping to hydrate, protect, and reduce irritation on the surface. It’s not either/or. Sepel advice, “build the foundation first. Then layer with intention. That’s where the real shift happens… not just in how your skin looks, but in how it functions.”

From 'skinfluencers' to dermatologists to brand founders, everyone’s turning to Korea for the latest in beauty. But recently, it’s not just about stocking up on skincare; it’s also about the array of treatments that promise to leave them with that coveted glass-skin look, and a healthier-looking, well-rested complexion. A quick scroll on TikTok is all it took me to start looking up flights to get in on the aesthetic innovations. But after getting a glimpse at the eye-wateringly expensive flights, I started digging a little deeper into which treatments and devices are most popular over there, and I discovered I don’t actually need to go anywhere.

“In reality, almost all leading technologies available in South Korea are also accessible in the UK,” confirms Dr Mihaela Guylas, founder of SKNCode London Clinic. Some of the tech is Korean-made, but what really makes a treatment ‘Korean’ is the approach, which Guylas points out is, “heavily focused on treatment stacking, prioritising skin quality, and taking a regenerative rather than reactive approach.”

From injectable skin boosters and exosome facials to laser stacking and radiofrequency, here are some of the most sought-after Korean beauty treatments you can get right here in Blighty.

PDRN+

I’m no stranger to a needle, but historically my injectable appointments have centred on volume, structure and—at times—freezing my rather expressive face. The Korean approach is markedly different, rooted in a skin-first philosophy. Here, injectables are less about altering features and more about improving skin quality.

Enter Rejuran. Developed in Korea, it’s a biostimulator made from highly purified polynucleotides—DNA fragments derived from salmon. “It works by strengthening the skin barrier, stimulating collagen and improving hydration and overall skin quality,” explains Dr Ahmed El Muntasar, founder of The Aesthetics Doctor Clinic. As he injected it into my under-eyes, he added: “Rejuran isn’t a filler, so you’re never going to look like you’ve had ‘work done’—but you will look fresher, healthier.”

While it can be used across the face, neck and even the scalp, it’s particularly transformative in the notoriously difficult eye area. Within a few weeks, my under-eyes looked smoother, less creased and noticeably less tired—results that, as El Muntasar notes, continue to improve with a course of three sessions spaced a month apart.

During the same appointment, I also tried 'skin Botox', which is a very different proposition to the traditional approach. “It’s a hyper-diluted form of Botox,” explains El Muntasar. “It’s mixed with saline—or sometimes a lightweight skin booster—and injected very superficially across the skin, rather than into specific muscles.” Instead of freezing movement, it works within the skin itself to reduce oiliness, refine texture and create that smooth, almost poreless finish synonymous with Korean skin.

The result was genuinely impressive. My skin has never looked this refined—smoother, clearer, and with a soft-focus quality that makes makeup sit better than ever. Plus, people keep telling me I look well, without ever asking what I've had done—the true sign of a great treatment.

Exosomes 2.0

Exosomes are arguably the most talked-about innovation in aesthetic medicine right now—but in Korean clinics, they’ve long been standard practice. “Exosomes are tiny extracellular vesicles containing proteins, growth factors and messenger RNA,” explains aesthetic practitioner and Ace Skin Health Clinic founder, Corina Mihalache. “They act as cellular messengers, transferring signals between cells to coordinate repair and regeneration.”

Their applications are broad—targeting everything from fine lines and acne scarring to hyperpigmentation, rosacea, uneven texture, hair loss and post-procedure healing. And because our natural supply declines with age, integrating them into treatments—much as in Korea—feels less like a trend and more like a logical next step.

Exosomes can be derived from plant, marine or bovine sources. I regularly have Korean E50 marine-derived exosomes microneedled into my face and hairline by Mihalache. “Marine-derived exosomes are particularly effective for skin rejuvenation,” she explains, citing their stability, longevity and strong compatibility with human skin. Hydration and radiance can improve within days; for me, the most noticeable shift was in skin texture after around three months.

At the more advanced end sits Meta Cell Technology (MCT)—a treatment that works with your own biology rather than introducing exosomes from the outside. Using a small sample of your blood, the plasma is isolated, then processed within the device to concentrate growth factors and stimulate the release of your own exosomes before being reintroduced into the skin.

“These exosomes optimise how skin cells repair, regenerate and communicate,” explains Viviana Botoaca, founder of Geneviv Clinic. “It encourages the skin to behave more like it did in its youth.” She recommended treating one of my post-surgery scars—something I was initially sceptical about—but within a week, I noticed a visible reduction in redness. “Exosomes help regulate the inflammatory and vascular environment within a scar, allowing it to settle more efficiently over time,” she adds.

More broadly, the impact is cumulative. “Because MCT exosomes are derived from your own biology, the response feels more regulated,” says Botoaca. “You see improvements in tone, texture and resilience—but what’s really changing is how efficiently the skin is able to repair itself day to day.”

Korean Laser Treatments

Treatment stacking sits at the heart of Korean aesthetics. Rather than taking a single-treatment approach, practitioners layer multiple modalities within one session to target different depths and concerns simultaneously. “It allows patients to undergo one recovery period while achieving more comprehensive, natural-looking results,” explains Dr Guylas.

But within that philosophy lies an even more advanced technique: laser stacking—arguably where Korean clinics are most ahead of the curve.

“Think of it as a division of labour,” says oculoplastic surgeon and founder of MZ Skin Clinic, Maryam Zamani, who adopts the same approach in her London practice. I regularly visit her clinic for combination treatments using Moxi laser and BBL laser—both hugely popular in Korea. “Moxi is swept across the entire face to refine texture, stimulate collagen and soften fine lines, while BBL uses light energy to target deeper pigmentation, redness and sun damage,” she explains. For those suitable, a fractional CO2 laser can also be introduced for more intensive resurfacing—addressing tone, texture and laxity in a single session, rather than across multiple appointments and recovery periods.

The innovation doesn’t stop there. In Korea, lasers are increasingly being used beyond their original remit. The Soprano Lifting Technique—currently gaining traction—emerged from the discovery that the Soprano laser’s triple-wavelength technology (755nm, 810nm and 1064nm) could deliver a lifting effect, stimulating collagen and elastin across multiple layers with zero downtime. Dr Guylas, who trained in the technique at the Alma Academy in South Korea, is currently the only UK practitioner offering it—but that’s unlikely to last.

Ultrasound Pioneers

Often dubbed the “lunchtime facelift”, ultrasound treatments are a key reason Korean aesthetics feel so far ahead. Originally developed for mainstream medicine, high-intensity focused ultrasound (HIFU) was later adapted by South Korea for cosmetic use—introducing the first devices targeting the SMAS layer for anti-ageing in 2003. Today, it works at a structural level, stimulating collagen and elastin within this foundational layer—a fibrous network of muscle and connective tissue that sits beneath the skin and anchors the face, and the same layer a surgeon would lift during a facelift—without a single incision.

“In Korea, the focus is on subtle elevation—lifting the brow, refining the jawline, and supporting the lower face—rather than dramatic transformation,” explains advanced nurse practitioner and Teresa Tan, founder of Tan&Co clinic. “Ultherapy, one of the most established devices in both South Korea and the UK, aligns perfectly with that philosophy. It’s discreet, progressive, and designed to maintain youthful architecture.” Results begin to show at around two to three months, with continued improvement up to six, and typically require just one treatment every one to two years.

For those less focused on lift alone, the LDM Triple offers a more holistic approach. A true multitasker, it improves density, firmness and elasticity, softens fine lines, supports scar remodelling, and stimulates hyaluronic acid production to boost hydration. Crucially, it’s also anti-inflammatory—making it particularly effective for calming acne, rosacea, eczema and psoriasis.

“What makes it distinctly Korean in approach is that it delivers results without creating trauma, which means it can be easily layered with other treatments,” says cosmetic doctor Dr Rakhshani, founder of Dr Rasha Clinic. “There’s also no real upper limit on frequency—unlike most devices that require downtime, this can be done weekly, even twice weekly if needed. It’s also ideal pre-event, delivering an immediate glow with zero downtime.”

Radiofrequency

My deep dive into Korea’s most in-demand treatments revealed one clear constant: radiofrequency (RF). By delivering controlled heat to the dermis—where collagen and elastin reside—it contracts existing fibres for an immediate tightening effect, while stimulating new collagen over time.

I recently gave the Thermage FLX a try—in the name of research, of course. “In Korea, where the focus is very much on preserving youthful structure rather than dramatically altering it, Thermage has become a cornerstone for subtle lifting and long-term skin quality,” Tan explained to me during my treatment.

RF is already widely adopted in the UK, but the real distinction lies in how it’s used. In Korean clinics, it’s rarely a standalone treatment; exosomes, polynucleotides and growth factors are typically delivered into the microchannels to intensify the regenerative response. Now, UK practitioners are beginning to adopt the same approach.

Take Virtue RF—developed in Korea and used by Dr Memee Ahmad at SkinCouture—which combines microneedling with radiofrequency energy delivered at precise depths. “The heat triggers an immediate contraction of existing collagen fibres, which is why you see a subtle tightening effect straight away,” she explains. “But it also initiates a deeper remodelling process as the skin repairs itself over the following weeks and months. You’re effectively sending two repair signals to the same area at once, which is why results go beyond what either technology achieves alone.”

After months of testing, it’s clear why Korea is leading the aesthetics conversation. The good news is you no longer need a long-haul flight to access it. The real shift is in technique: treatment stacking, strategic layering, and an uncompromising focus on skin quality.

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

We read a lot about how important it is to wash your makeup brushes, but I have firsthand experience that proves just how much it matters. When I had hormonal acne in 2025, one of the big lifestyle changes that helped most was washing my pillowcases regularly, changing out my towels often—and washing my makeup brushes after every one or two use(s).

We seriously underestimate just how much this can impact our skin; from product buildup to bacteria, dirty sponges and brushes can do so much harm to skin health. "From a dermatology perspective, makeup brushes can easily become a reservoir for oil, bacteria, dead skin cells and product residue," explains Dr Alexis Granite, Consultant Dermatologist and Founder of Joonbyrd. "When brushes aren’t cleaned regularly, these impurities are repeatedly transferred back onto the skin, which can contribute to clogged pores, irritation and breakouts."

So how would a skin expert recommend you wash your brushes—particularly if you are acne-prone? They should know the best, right? Here, four derms and aestheticians reveal their personal tips for how often you should wash your brushes, what you should use and the ultimate techniques to try.

1. Dr Alexis Granite, Consultant Dermatologist and Founder of Joonbyrd

For Granite, it's imperative to wash tools regularly—but how often can actually depend. "For most people, I recommend washing makeup brushes used with liquid or cream products at least once a week," she says. "Brushes used for powder products can sometimes go slightly longer, but should still be cleaned regularly."

In terms of technique, the derm really follows the 'less is more' rule. "Cleaning brushes is straightforward. I recommend using a gentle cleanser such as a mild shampoo or a dedicated brush cleanser," she explains. "Wet the bristles with lukewarm water, apply a small amount of cleanser, and gently massage the bristles to break down makeup and oils."

"Rinse thoroughly while keeping the brush head angled downward so water doesn’t seep into the handle. Then reshape the bristles and allow the brush to air dry flat on a clean towel."

2. Dr Sonia Khorana, Cosmetic Doctor & Dermatology Expert

Describing washing makeup brushes as one of the "simplest but most overlooked steps in skincare," Dr Khorana says that "using dirty brushes is a bit like reapplying yesterday’s bacteria onto freshly cleansed skin - it completely undermines the rest of your skincare routine."

She recommends washing brushes at least once a week if you aren't experiencing any 'significant' skin concerns. But for those who are acne-prone or who are actively experiencing breakouts, "I advise being much more diligent; ideally, brushes should be cleaned every few uses."

The doctor explains: "I use a gentle cleanser (I personally like using the Cerave Hydrating Foaming Cleanser, the E45 Hydrating Foam Cleanser or the Bioderma Sensibio Foaming Gel — or a dedicated make up brush cleanser/ even a mild shampoo). The key is to avoid anything too harsh that could damage the bristles or irritate the skin."

She continues: "I start by wetting the bristles with lukewarm water and applying a small amount of cleanser and gently swirling the brush in the palm of my hand or on a silicone cleansing mat to break down makeup, oil and debris. Then, rinse thoroughly until the water runs clear. Gently squeeze out any excess water when done and lay the brushes flat to dry."

3. Pamela Marshall, Clinical Aesthetician & Founder of Mortar & Milk

Marshall was the person who first taught me about the importance of upping my cleaning schedule when I was experiencing acne. She actually recommends washing them daily if you have acne — particularly for foundation brushes and sponges. For those without skincare concerns like breakouts, she says once a week is fine, "but I will still recommend they get a spray of Clinisoothe between uses to reduce superficial bacteria."

When it comes to products and techniques, Marshall has a rigorous routine that's been perfected over the years. "I always wash my brushes in hot water using a baby shampoo (I prefer Johnson's but that's because I love the smell)," she says. "I pour a little shampoo onto the palm of my hand, get the bristles wet with warm water, and then swirl them around on the shampoo. Rinse and repeat if necessary."

She adds: "I let them air dry off the end of a clean counter top overnight (if needed right away, I will get my blow dryer on them). I wouldn't recommend letting them dry in a bathroom; unless all people using the bathroom close the lid before flushing, you risk fecal plumes getting onto your brush... and that's just not cool."

"As an added note, I would also recommend wiping down with a disinfectant cloth (or Clinisoothe) the outside of makeup bottles and containers. Unless you wash your hands between steps, if you've just used foundation or concealer and then you pick up the next makeup product, you've move that makeup to the next bottle or container."

4. Dr Sidra Khan, Consultant Dermatologist

Khan says that while dirty brushes "are rarely the sole cause of breakouts," for someone who may be predisposed to acne, they can "absolutely be a perpetuating factor." For this reason, "brush hygiene can be a simple, low-effort intervention that supports an acne-friendly routine."

For those without acne, Khan says washing your brushes every fortnight is "a sensible and realistic baseline, particularly for foundation, concealer, cream blush, or bronzer brushes." She adds: "If someone is acne-prone, I would ideally recommend cleaning complexion brushes every week, as these are repeatedly exposed to oil-rich and inflamed areas of the face. Tools used directly over active breakouts should be washed even more frequently to reduce repeated transfer of residue and bacteria."

The dermatologist likes to keep it "simple and sustainable" with her method. "A gentle fragrance-free shampoo, baby shampoo, or dedicated brush cleanser works well; the important factor is regularity rather than an expensive product." Start by "wetting only the bristles with lukewarm water, then massaging the cleanser through your fingers or a silicone cleansing mat, rinsing thoroughly until the water runs clear, then gently squeezing out excess moisture."

She concludes: "The brush should then be reshaped and dried flat on a clean towel, rather than upright, to avoid water loosening the adhesive at the ferrule. Consistent technique matters far more than using anything overly complicated." Her go-to kit consists of the Love EcoTools Makeup Brush and Sponge Shampoo, Real Techniques Brush Cleansing Palette and StylPro Original Makeup Brush Cleaner & Dryer.

There’s a new kind of in-flight ritual taking over TikTok: mid-air skincare. Think serums layered between meal services, sheet masks mid-movie, and a level of dedication that suggests long-haul equals spa time. Two things strike me. First, these routines rarely factor in the realities of travelling with children, where your priorities skew more towards snacks and survival than a 10-step regimen. And second, is any of this actually doing your skin good, or is it simply content dressed up as care?

Because while cabin air is undeniably punishing, not everything trending at altitude is worth decanting into your carry-on. Here, experts break down what your skin genuinely needs mid-flight—and what falls firmly into the realm of performance.

What flying really does to your skin

According to Dr Jennifer Owens of The Glow Clinic, the issue starts with the cabin environment. “Humidity can drop to around 10–20% at altitude, compared to 40–60% on the ground, which leads to rapid trans-epidermal water loss,” she explains. In practical terms, your skin is losing water faster than it can replenish it—leaving it dull, tight and far more reactive. This doesn’t just leave skin looking dull; Owens notes that the barrier function takes a hit too, making skin more reactive, more prone to redness, and less able to hold on to moisture.

There’s also a knock-on effect internally. Dehydration at altitude can subtly impact digestion and circulation—“which is why people often feel more bloated, reach for saltier foods, and notice puffiness or dullness post-flight,” she adds. Skin, in this case, is simply reflecting what’s going on beneath the surface. Sophie Smith, aesthetician and co-founder of Grand Aesthetics, reinforces the point: "This is why it can feel tighter or more dehydrated during and after a flight,” she says. The priority, then, is keeping skin balanced, calm and comfortable.

TikTok theatre or fact?

Both experts are clear: social media has blurred the line between benefit and, let's face it, showing off a bit. “There’s definitely been a shift towards performative skincare,” says Owens. “For most people, a well-chosen moisturiser and SPF are more than enough.” In fact, staying hydrated internally—and limiting alcohol and caffeine—will often do more for your skin than a multi-step routine mid-air. That’s not to say skincare has no place on a plane. “There is value in being intentional,” she adds. Supporting hydration and barrier repair before, during, and after a flight—particularly a long-haul flight—can make a visible difference. The key is restraint. A considered, minimal routine will almost always outperform a layered one done for content. Smith echoes this: “Skin responds best to a simple, supportive routine that focuses on hydration and comfort.”

The ingredients that make a difference

Both experts are unequivocal: hydration and barrier support should be the focus.“I always recommend ingredients like hyaluronic acid, glycerin, ceramides and panthenol,” says Smith. These work by drawing moisture into the skin and helping it stay there—keeping the complexion balanced and comfortable even in a dehydrating environment. Owens adds that antioxidants are particularly useful at altitude to counter oxidative stress from UV exposure. Her rule is simple but effective: layer hydration, then seal it in. A mist to top up moisture, followed by a serum and a moisturiser or mask to lock everything down. Just as important is what to avoid. Strong exfoliating acids (AHAs and BHAs), retinoids and heavily fragranced formulas can all exacerbate sensitivity when skin is already under stress.

Do you really need a sheet mask?

The answer depends on the length of your flight—and whether you have the time or inclination. “For shorter flights, simplicity absolutely wins,” says Owens. But on long-haul journeys, there is a case for more intensive hydration. Masks or under-eye patches can help maintain moisture levels and reduce that tight, fatigued look. “It’s less about transformation and more about preservation,” she explains, keeping skin stable so it doesn’t need to recover afterwards. That said, practicality matters. There are, however, more discreet options. A leave-on treatment layer, like a rich moisturiser or overnight mask—delivers similar, more discreet benefits—something your seatmates may appreciate.

The routine your skin actually needs

“I’d rather use the time to rest, hydrate internally, and allow the skin to stay calm and supported," Owens says. “Often, that minimal approach gives better results than over-layering,” she says. Smith also flags lip care as non-negotiable—something many people forget until it’s too late.

If you’re editing things down to a carry-on, this, according to the experts, is what make the cut:

Cleanse before boarding to remove build-up so anything you apply afterwards can actually absorb properly. The key is choosing something non-stripping; if you compromise the barrier before you’ve even taken off, you’re already on the back foot in that low-humidity cabin air.

Apply a hydrating serum to replenish water content. In an environment where moisture is constantly being pulled out of your skin, this step helps maintain that plumpness and prevents the tight, papery feeling that tends to creep in mid-flight.

Seal with a moisturiser or mask to lock in moisture. Ingredients like ceramides and nourishing lipids help reinforce the skin barrier, slowing down water loss and keeping irritation at bay.

Use a mist to top up hydration and take the edge off that dry, tight feeling. Opt for formulas with hyaluronic acid to draw in and hold onto moisture, alongside hypochlorous acid—a gentle antibacterial that helps keep skin clear without disrupting the barrier.

Apply SPF to protect from UV radiation, which intensifies at altitude (thanks to a thinner atmosphere). If you’re sitting by the window, that exposure is even more direct. Applying a broad-spectrum SPF helps protect against long-term damage—even if it doesn’t feel sunny at 35,000 feet.

If TikTok has turned in-flight skincare into a bit of a moment, the experts bring it back to what actually works. At altitude, your skin doesn’t need more steps—it needs the right ones. Think hydration, barrier support and a less-is-more approach. Because when it comes to flying, it’s not about how much you pack in your carry-on, but how well your skin holds up when you land.

Shop airplane skincare

Do you have hyaluronic acid fatigue? Symptoms may include a loss of excitement for the much-beloved ingredient and a renewed desire for something more.

Look, we all love a simple hyaluronic serum and have long been told the ingredient is the key to beating dehydration. But given just how savvy and knowledgeable beauty consumers are these days, it's no surprise that we desire more from our skincare: not only do we want something that hydrates, but it also needs to offer additional benefits to really make its way into our regular roster.

Hyaluronic works hard, but does it work hard enough? That's the question we've started to ask, particularly given the new-ingredient-kids-on-the-block that not only hydrate as hyaluronic acid does, but with more pizazz. This may include soothing and calming properties for inflamed skin, or deeper penetration for better barrier protection.

Intrigued? The following three ingredients are 2026's answer to hyaluronic acid (but better).

1. Beta-glucan

Beta-Glucan had a bit of a moment back in 2023 when The Ordinary launched its bestselling Natural Moisturizing Factors with the added ingredient. Since then, it sort of, well, faded into the background a little – that is, until 2026 when it's officially making its proud comeback.

The ingredient is something called a polysaccharide, and is derived from things like mushrooms, oats and yeasts. It's best known for its soothing and anti-inflammatory benefits, making it a great addition to the roster for those with damaged or struggling skin barriers. It's ultra-calming, and works brilliantly on skin that's sensitive or prone to eczema, dermatitis or rosacea.

Like hyaluronic acid, beta-glucan is a humectant, meaning it attracts moisture and water. The ingredient is known for locking in hydration, therefore, making it a no-brainer for anyone who has been battling a compromised skin barrier. The reason beta-glucan may be worth trying over hyaluronic acid is that it's a bit more of an all-rounder: of course, the latter is amazing for hydration, but the former also offers enhanced soothing, calming, and anti-inflammatory properties, making it well-tolerated by nearly all and potentially even more effective.

You'll most commonly find beta-glucan in serums or moisturisers; in other words, it features in the ingredients list of products designed to penetrate skin deeply and hydrate.

2. Osmolytes

Until recently, osmolytes – despite being widely used in modern skincare – flew largely under the radar in beauty conversations. But chances are, some of your favourite products may feature them in some capacity, with your skin benefiting in myriad ways.

Osmolytes are very small, naturally occurring molecules. Some of the most common include taurine, betaine and ectoin: the latter of which is perhaps best known within the skincare world. There are plenty of benefits to be enjoyed from this group of molecules: namely, protection from environmental aggressors like UV radiation and heat, as well as hydration in abundance. Studies have even suggested that certain osmolytes can aid in anti-ageing.

According to IFF, who labels osmolytes as our 'natural moisture guardians,' these molecules work differently to typical humectants such as hyaluronic acid. While the latter works at the skin's surface to pull water in, osmolytes work more deeply at the skin cell level. Here, they balance water levels and strengthen the skin's barrier.

Perhaps the best-known topical product on the market that uses osmolytes (and promotes it) is The Inkey List's Ectoin Hydro-Barrier Serum. But as mentioned, many of your favourites may already feature the ingredient; Paula's Choice beloved Omega+ Complex Moisturiser is an example.

3. Snow mushroom

As beauty fans will be aware, mushrooms have had a Hollywood makeover in skincare (and wellness!) in recent years. But there's one in particular that stands out as a competitor to hyaluronic acid: tremella fuciformis, otherwise known as snow mushroom.

Often used in traditional Chinese medicine, snow mushroom has similar benefits to beta-glucan in that it heals, soothes and calms. It also has antioxidant properties and can protect the skin barrier, and it's a humectant, making it similar to hyaluronic acid. There have even been dermatological opinions that point to snow mushroom being a superior hydrator, due to its smaller molecule size and ability to penetrate more deeply into the skin.

Snow mushroom can be used by most skin types, including those with sensitive skin. It's mostly found in serums, but also cleansers and toners: just take Youth To The People and Thayers' offerings as examples.

It's difficult to speak about the state of the beauty industry without referencing the innovations coming from Asia. In just a few years, K-beauty has not only dominated our make-up bags but rewired how we think about skincare: the Western philosophy of "more is more" has been eschewed in favour of hydrating, barrier-building and "glass skin" inducing ingredients.

However, it's not just South Korea that we should be keeping an eye on; Japanese, or J-beauty, has always been a respected player in the field, but its patient approach is paying off in 2026 with exponential interest and growth.

"It's not a passing trend," comments Joome Song, who is known as Hollywood's master facial sculptor. "J-beauty is rooted in a disciplined and simplified approach that prioritises long-term health over quick fixes. Think of it as a reset after years of ingredient overload, overexfoliation, and instant results." The aesthetician (who is of Korean heritage but born and raised in Japan) is highly sought after by the likes of Zendaya and Emma Stone for her KAIKA massage, which references ancient rituals to lift, tone and sculpt the facial structure.

For Song, the layering of lightweight, purposeful products is central to how the Japanese approach skincare. "As I define it, J-beauty is built on three pillars: simplicity, consistency, and harmony between one’s inner and outer self," she says. "Fresh, dewy, almost translucent skin is achieved by stacking hydrators like hyaluronic acid and ceramides. Generally, we have a strong appreciation for protecting skin, minimising sun exposure, avoiding harsh products, and taking a more preventative approach versus corrective."

Shiseido is Japan's most recognisable beauty export. Founded in 1872 as the county's first private pharmacy, it is now one of the world's oldest cosmetics brands, and the largest in Asia. It has gained global dominance, too, after quietly acquiring key Millennial and Gen Z brands, like NARS Cosmetics and Drunk Elephant.

For Nathalie Broussard, Shiseido's Scientific Communication Director, it's the K-beauty boom that has acted as a catalyst for the wider realm of Eastern beauty. "It helped popularise Asian rituals by introducing concepts of multi-step routines, double cleansing, essences, and sheet masks." Now, she adds, we're seeing a maturation of the market: "So, a focus on hybrid routines that combine the playful creativity of K-beauty with the more serious, thoughtful, and ingredients-focused minimalism of J-beauty."

The differences between the Korean and Japanese approaches are key. "K-beauty is typically characterised by rapid innovation and a focus on trends, with brands frequently introducing new ingredients, formats, and routines to stay ahead of the market," notes Dr Christine Hall, who is of South Korean heritage and acclaimed as a glass skin specialist. "Routines in J-beauty, in contrast, are built around established practices and precise application techniques or gestures, with an emphasis on how products are used as much as the products themselves."

Unsurprisingly, aesthetic doctor Alicia Gonzalez has noticed a degree of "trend fatigue" within her clinic. "Patients are tiring of complex, multi-step routines that are so popular in K-beauty. Japanese beauty emphasises simple, consistent routines, grounded in tradition and ritual, which are both effective and sustainable."

It makes sense, then, that we’re increasingly drawn to the Japanese approach, with its strong emphasis on refinement. As the experts reiterate, their formulas are often decades in the making, and rather than being constantly reinvented, they are expertly perfected.

Other household name brands like Tatcha, SKII, Hada Labo, Curél and Takami embody this perfectly. For its part, the former has prioritised rituals and ingredients that have been used for centuries in the country. "Antioxidants, rice, green tea and seaweed not only sustain a diet that is considered one of the healthiest in the world, but these ingredients are also biologically compatible to work with your skin and clinically-proven to support long-term skin health," explains Qiang Qiu, Tatcha's Head of Global Innovation.

Much of the country's skincare has been crafted with its climate in mind, too. "Japan experiences drastic shifts in humidity, dryness, temperature and UV exposure. This means that gentle, hydrating formulas have always been required," adds Qiu. To this end, you will often see ferments in Japanese ingredient lists: "It really distinguishes our products from mainstream Western ones. The process of fermentation boosts the potency of key ingredients to deliver nutrient-rich compounds for healthy, radiant skin."

Ultimately, it's J-beauty's focus on nourishment and alignment that is making waves. In a highly saturated beauty space, dominated by social media trends, savvy consumers want efficacious products that promise a sense of well-being, too. "There’s a beautiful concept called wabi-sabi that really captures it all," concludes Song. "It’s about learning to see beauty in simple, everyday things. Over time, you start to appreciate things differently, and that’s really what Japanese beauty is all about."

Japanese Skincare Heroes

In case your social media algorithm isn't as beauty-fixated as mine, BYOMA’s just-launched glass skin face mask has become one of the most talked-about launches of the moment—TikTok searches alone are up 355% in the past week. As a long-standing BYOMA superfan, I had high expectations, and, unsurprisingly, they were all met.

I fear I sound like a broken record when I say the words ‘glass skin’, and I'm aware it's become a bit of a beauty cliché, but I'm yet to tire of any trend that's this radiant and luminous. And any product that promises that level of glow is, quite simply, going straight into my basket.

This mask markets itself as a faster, more efficient rival to the famous glass skin collagen sheet masks that require you to wear them for hours until they turn clear. However, this works in just 20 minutes, to give you firm, plump and reflective skin. The only difference is that you paint this on and peel it off when it dries.

What’s so good about the BYOMA Bio-Collagen Radiance Mask?

Not only does this affordable mask deliver instant glass skin, but it also strengthens the skin barrier by 36%. Something that BYOMA are very passionate about in the wake of teen skincare fanatics. It’s packed with barrier-supportive, soothing, and inflammation-reducing skincare ingredients, so it’s great for sensitive skin.

It contains cica and astaxanthin to reduce redness and inflammation, a tri-ceramide complex to protect and fortify the skin barrier, moisturising glycerin, as well as bio-collagen to prevent transepidermal water loss by forming an occlusive layer on the skin. It is this surface action that makes bio-collagen beneficial topically for improving skin texture and reducing the appearance of fine lines.

How to apply the BYOMA Bio-Collagen Radiance Facial Mask?

If you baulk at the idea of wearing a sheet mask for four hours, this 20-minute ticket to glass skin is for you. Yes, you need to paint this on your skin, so it’s not as good for travelling; but it’s lack of portability seems like a fair trade-off when the alternative requires so much time to work.

As this mask dries on your skin, you’ll notice that it peels off easily – a bit like sunburnt skin does. All you need to do is apply a thin layer, and avoid going near your hairline, and it will remove like a breeze.

A beauty editor’s honest review

I haven’t found a BYOMA product I don’t rate highly, so I knew I'd love the results of this mask. I use this as a skin ‘pick-me-up’ when I have an event or special occasion to attend, especially when I don’t have the luxury of hours to get ready. In just 20 minutes, my skin looks more reflective and glass-like, as well as firmer and plumper. It works every time. I find this a great mask to use before makeup, as it gives you a smoother, more radiant base to work with. My makeup always seems more flawless when I do this mask first.

As well as the quick and impressive results, I love the cost of this mask. £16.99 for at least 10-15 applications, making it much more affordable than the sheet masks it rivals. Aside from its lack of portability, there aren’t any downsides to this mask. It doesn’t inflame or irritate my perioral dermatitis, but actually calms the residual redness. Even if you only use this mask for special occasions, I think it’s a product that everyone should have on their bathroom shelf.

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.

Since I was a teenager, my approach to skincare has been more akin to a sergeant major going into battle than a woman about to enjoy a few minutes of self-care. You see, as someone who has been navigating acne for the last two decades, my routine has been a blueprint to stave off hormonal flare-ups, minimise active breakouts, and keep oiliness under control. My bathroom cabinet has long been a rotation of salicylic acids, gel cleansers and spot stickers—basically anything designed to keep spots at bay. And for a while, that was working. But recently, something has shifted.

Over the last few years, I’ve noticed subtle but undeniable changes in my skin. Where it was once excessively shiny, it now feels dry, the texture is less predictable, and there’s a new softness where my skin was once firm and bouncy. At 36, there aren’t yet any lines or wrinkles (at least not yet), but there’s definitely a change in my skin’s resilience and ability to bounce back. For the first time, I’m thinking less about correction and more about preservation. Rather than anti-ageing in the traditional sense (a term that I’ve always felt a bit icky about), I’m looking for ways to future-proof my skin right now. Yes, right now it's all about skin longevity, which means choosing products that will help it to stay healthy, strong, and balanced over time.

So when No7 Prime Forever skincare range landed on my desk, I was intrigued. Created to preserve skin in its prime and reduce skin ageing activity, I decided to put the entire line through its paces to see whether it would deliver what I was looking for from my new routine.

What does No7 Prime Forever do?

Following huge amounts of research into how our skin ages and how it’s best preserved, Prime Forever aims to proactively future-proof the skin by preventing new and existing damage from appearing on the skin’s surface and protecting against extrinsic damage. The key is that this is a range designed specifically for people in their 30s.

“Our study of over 22,000 participants revealed that the 30s are a pivotal decade; skincare priorities shift from 'healthy skin' to concerns around early ageing. This is corroborated by our clinical data, showing visible ageing accelerates by up to 50% in our 30s,” explains Dr Mike Bell, Head of Science Research, No7.

In essence, damage to your skin might have actually occurred years before it reveals itself on the skin’s surface. And while I expect many beauty brands to follow suit, skin preservation right now is an emerging category in skincare, and No7 is really spearheading the way. Prime Forever is all about proactive, long-term skincare, rather than waiting to treat skin damage once it becomes visible.

What are the key ingredients in No7 Prime Forever?

The Prime Forever range takes a three-pronged approach to preserving skin with antioxidants, peptides and UVA protection, providing the core protective elements. First up, the broad-spectrum antioxidant complex, which contains vitamin C, vitamin E and lipochroman (a potent antioxidant molecule that protects against skin ageing) as well as camellia leaf and myrtle leaf, which are both naturally rich in protective antioxidants. Test results showed that this unique blend actually boosts the skin’s antioxidant capacity within 30 minutes, with the Prime Forever Serum proven to reduce oxidative stress by seven times.

Renowned for their incredible peptide-rich formulations, the range also features No7’s world-first super peptide blend, which uses rice peptides to target invisible damage beneath the skin and protect against age-accelerating enzymes.

Last, but by absolutely no means least, the Prime Forever features an SPF50 primer—a five-star UVA-rated daily protection which will protect skin from UV exposure and preserve its appearance. Speak to any skin expert, and they will tell you that SPF is the one product that can reliably protect your skin from sun-related damage and signs of ageing, and No7 scientists actually partnered with a photobiologist to model the long-term benefits of using UVB and UVA protection. It showed that using the primer daily from the age of 30 until 80 could reduce UV exposure from 50 years to 6 years, which means it could dramatically reduce how quickly your skin ages.

What are the No7 Prime Forever products and do they work?

While I often state that everyone’s skin is different and products that work for me might not work for you, there is something to be said for the amount of research and science behind the Prime Forever range. No7 actually used state-of-the-art Xenium machinery and molecular profiling techniques to really understand exactly what factors drive early damage and ageing to the skin, and it was these insights that made it clear that oxidative stress, UV damage and skin-degrading enzymes have the biggest impact on the skin and premature signs of ageing.

The Prime Forever range was therefore formulated to target exactly those issues and show impressive results in their ability to reduce oxidative stress, protect the skin from UV rays and effectively slow down signs of ageing. The enormous study of over 22,000 people also revealed that our thirties are the key decade to really start investing in our skin’s future—meaning that I personally am still in the pivotal age range to really start preserving my skin now.

My honest review of the No7 Prime Forever range

I’ve been using the entire No7 Prime Forever range for the last few weeks and, in short, I think I’ll be hard-pressed to go back to my old skincare routine now. Of course, it’s all about the long game with this lineup, but in terms of instant gratification, every product feels luxurious to use, has the right blend of ingredients to tackle the dehydration and loss of elasticity that I’m already noticing at 36, but still have a lightweight and refreshing texture that my combination (and still sometimes spot-prone) skin appreciates. For me, the serum and primer are the real stars of the show (and No7, I would love a dedicated eye cream), but I really think that anyone in their 30s and beyond will enjoy the fresh, dewy skin that this gives short-term, while feeling slightly smug that you’re doing a whole lot of good for your future skin too.

This year, the Prix d’Excellence de la Beauté marks its 40th anniversary—a rare kind of longevity in an industry defined by constant renewal.

Since its inception, the awards have held a distinct position within the global beauty landscape. Judged by Marie Claire Beauty Directors across international editions, alongside local panels of industry experts, the Prix has never been driven by noise or visibility. Instead, it recognises what is most considered—formulas that introduce something new, and shift expectations in a way that lasts.

To receive a Prix is not simply to be recognised as a successful launch, but as a product that has moved the industry forward. One that captures where beauty is at a given moment, and, more importantly, where it is heading.

Across four decades, the awards have traced that progression with precision. From the early focus on performance-led skincare to the rise of hybrid formulas and skin-first makeup, each year’s winners form a record of changing priorities—of what we value, what we expect, and how we use beauty.

To mark this anniversary, five products have been singled out from across the decades. Each stands in its own right, but what connects them is not just innovation, but legacy. Each introduced a shift that endured—absorbed into routine, repeated daily and, over time, taken as given.

Estée Lauder Advanced Night Repair (1982)

When Advanced Night Repair launched in 1982, the idea that skin could be treated differently at different times of day was far from mainstream. Skincare, for the most part, was about immediate effect—hydration, protection and surface-level improvement.

What Estée Lauder introduced was a different premise: that night was not simply when we rested, but when skin repaired itself—and that this process could be supported. The formula, lightweight and serum-based, also helped establish an entirely new product category. Until then, “serum” had little meaning within a routine. After it, it became foundational.

Over the years, Advanced Night Repair has been reformulated multiple times, incorporating advances in chronobiology and environmental stress research, while maintaining its original positioning around repair and resilience. Today, its influence is difficult to separate from the category it helped build.

Yves Saint Laurent Touche Éclat (1992)

Touche Éclat arrived at a time when complexion products were still largely defined by coverage. Foundations covered up; concealers corrected, typically in a uniform, all-over application.

Yves Saint Laurent's approach was different. Rather than masking darkness or fatigue outright, it introduced light—applied sparingly to specific points of the face to lift and brighten. The effect was less about perfection, more about perception.

Created by Terry de Gunzburg, then Creative Director of Yves Saint Laurent Beauté, the pen format was also significant for its precision, portability, and intuitiveness. It encouraged a new kind of application, one that felt closer to sketching than covering.

Decades on, the industry has followed its lead. Radiance has replaced opacity; technique has shifted from blanket layering to intelligent placement. Touche Éclat remains largely unchanged, which perhaps proves that it was never tied to a trend—only to a way of seeing the face in an entirely new light.

Bioderma Sensibio H2O (1995)

In 1995, Bioderma introduced what would become the first micellar water—a format that would go on to reshape cleansing entirely. At the time, removal of makeup relied on milks, lotions and rinses, often requiring multiple steps and, frequently, compromise for sensitive skin.

Sensibio H2O offered an alternative: a single-step cleanser that removed makeup, pollution and impurities while respecting the skin’s balance. Its formulation, built around micelles that attract and lift debris without disrupting the skin barrier, reflected a dermatological approach that prioritised tolerance as much as efficacy.

Its adoption was cult, then quickly complete. What began as a French pharmacy secret became a bathroom staple worldwide. Today, micellar water is ubiquitous, but the original remains its reference point. A bottle is now sold every second globally.

The wider shift it initiated is just as significant: cleansing, once seen as a necessary removal step, became something more considered. Less about stripping the skin, more about maintaining it.

Sisley Sunleÿa (2006)

By the mid-2000s, the importance of wearing sun protection was well established, but its positioning remained largely functional. SPF was preventative and perfunctory, often separate from the rest of a skincare routine, and rarely aligned with the sensorial expectations of luxury beauty.

Sunleÿa changed that. Sisley approached SPF not as a standalone category, but as an extension of skincare—combining UV protection with ingredients designed to address the visible effects of sun-induced ageing. In doing so, it reframed sunscreen as something active rather than passive.

Since then, the category has shifted accordingly. SPF is now expected to do more—to sit comfortably within a routine, to deliver both protection and treatment. And Sunleÿa was among the first to suggest that it should.

Erborian CC Crème (2013)

By 2013, the appetite for heavy coverage was beginning to wane. BB creams had already introduced the idea of hybrid products, but Erborian’s CC Crème refined it further, offering a formula that adapted to the skin, rather than masking it. Initially opaque, it adjusted upon application to even out tone while maintaining a natural finish.

Rooted in Korean skincare philosophy, the cream also reflected a broader shift towards routines that prioritised care as much as coverage. It suggested that makeup could enhance without obscuring, and that skincare could deliver visible, immediate results.

This intersection has since become standard. Tinted serums, skin tints, hybrid foundations—all follow a similar logic. Erborian's CC Crème didn’t invent the category outright, but it defined how it would be understood from that point on.

Traditionally, lasers have been a scary no-go treatment for Black and brown skin, but in recent years, I’ve become a massive fan. How, you may well be asking, since we’ve been left out of the beauty devices conversation for decades? Well, yes, “early laser technologies were designed with lighter skin in mind, often using wavelengths that were absorbed by melanin. In darker skin tones, where melanin is more abundant, this absorption led to excessive heat, increasing the risk of burns, scarring, and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH),” explains occuloplastic surgeon, facial aesthetics doctor and MZ Skin Clinic founder, Maryam Zamani. However, “while there is still some truth to this even with laser advancements—we have come a long way!” adds Zamani.

As a beauty editor for two decades, I’ve seen the evolution firsthand, going from having few options when I’d scan a treatment list to slowly seeing more and more energy-based devices I could actually use to address my skin concerns. That’s because “newer offerings use longer wavelengths which penetrate deeper and bypass much of the surface melanin, which in turn reduces the risk of thermal injury,” shares Zamani. While others house advanced cooling systems to control energy delivery, or use light or pressure rather than heat to get the job done.

Lasers, explained

But what job exactly are lasers doing? Put simply, they use focused beams of light at specific wavelengths to target excess pigment, reduce redness, regulate oil production, stimulate collagen, resurface the skin, and aid hair removal. And they reach deeper within the skin than your go-to skincare to offer everything from clearer, more even-toned skin and fewer breakouts to softened lines and less visible scarring, alongside a long-term reduction in hair growth. I’ve been using them to youth-boost my skin, help me sport smooth, hair-free limbs, and banish scarring, acne, and pigmentation. These are my favourites…

Best laser for hair removal: Motus AY

As a teen, all my friends were getting laser hair removal, but because of my Fitzpatrick 4 skin, I had to stick with shaving and waxing—the former left me with a fair few scars from nicks and cuts, while the latter was a big expense. As tech developed, I discovered I could use the Nd:YAG laser on my melanin-rich skin, but finding clinics that carry it hasn’t always been easy, and I imagine it can be even tougher if you don’t live in a big city. That’s why I love the DEKA Motus AY, it's a dual-wavelength laser system that combines Alexandrite and Nd:YAG with Moveo technology.

“What makes this significant is that Alexandrite, which was traditionally best suited to lighter skin, can now be used safely across all skin types, while Nd:YAG remains available where indicated,” shares advanced aesthetician and Ace Skin Clinic founder Corina Mihalache. That means clinic owners don’t have to shell out for two devices (something they often can’t do), which is huge. And not only that, Mihalache explains that the device is groundbreaking for another reason as well. “Traditional systems rely on a single, high-energy pulse, which we often refer to as ‘stamp and zap’. This can be uncomfortable and carries a higher risk, particularly for darker skin tones. Moveo technology delivers multiple gentle pulses, rather than one intense hit—gradually heating the follicle while keeping the skin protected.”

I’ve been really impressed by it. For me, the sessions are pain-free, and my hair growth has significantly slowed; the strands are finer, and less hair grows back after each session. Though it’s worth noting that, like all laser hair removal devices, it doesn’t offer guaranteed permanent removal of the hair, as only the likes of electrolysis can do that. But according to Mihalache, it does offer the best of both worlds, think, “the safety profile we need for darker skin and the efficacy we want across different hair types.”

Best laser for pigmentation & early signs of ageing: Moxi

While to a certain extent the saying ‘Black don’t crack’ is true—as those of us with melanin-rich skin do generally present with lines and wrinkles a lot later in life—it doesn’t mean we should swerve youth-boosting practices entirely. Plus, hyperpigmentation is a more prevalent and earlier sign of ageing in black and brown skin, and that I had my fair share of. So, I wanted to try a treatment that would help me bank some all-important collagen to slow down the lines and wrinkles that eventually come for us all and target my hyperpigmentation. However, it needed to be safe for my skin tone and not overly aggressive; I didn’t want to look like Freddie Krueger for a week. Cue the Moxi laser, which sits firmly in that preventative ageing space and works to boost collagen and improve tone, texture and early pigmentation.

“Moxi is a non-ablative fractional laser that targets water rather than melanin in the skin, which makes it significantly safer for skin of colour compared to older lasers that primarily targeted pigment,” shares Zamani. It creates tiny micro-injuries in the upper layers of the skin, triggering the skin's repair mode, which produces more skin-tightening collagen and increases cell turnover, gradually replacing older, pigmented cells with new, more evenly toned ones.

“It works well on sun spots, early melasma, and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation—the kind you get after acne. However, it should be used cautiously for deep dermal pigment and combining with pigment suppressors like azelaic acid, arbutin, kojic acid, or hydroquinone, and proper protocols are essential for safety and effectiveness,” shares Zamani.

I did a course of four sessions, and, as Zamani promised, my complexion was totally refreshed; it’s brighter, smoother, and more even in tone.

Best laser for acne: AviClear

Acne has been the bane of my existence; I’ve thrown everything but the kitchen sink at my skin to get it under control with varying degrees of success. So, I can’t tell you how excited I was when the acne-busting laser AviClear hit our shores. “This laser selectively targets sebum within the sebaceous glands,” explains aesthetic doctor and PHI Clinic founder, Tapan Patel. “In so doing, it allows us to reduce sebaceous gland activity and directly address the root cause of acne, aka excess oil production.”

What sets it apart is that it bypasses pigment entirely. “The wavelength does not significantly interact with melanin, which means we can treat all skin tones safely without the same risk of post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation that we see with other energy-based devices,” he adds.

What I loved about this was that it’s a shift away from medication-led approaches, think spironolactone and Accutane, both of which I was on for years. And that all you need are three sessions spaced a month apart, each lasting around 30 minutes, with no need for even a drop of numbing cream. It’s not completely pain-free, as the skin is kept super cold, which I found a little uncomfortable but totally bearable and worth the discomfort for the results I experienced. Clinical studies found 30 per cent acne clearance in three months, 60 per cent clearance in six months, and 90 percent clearance in nine months and I’d say my results followed that trajectory.

Best laser for scarring: UltraClear

One minute I’m walking down the cobbled streets of Porto, Portugal, the next I’m twisting my ankle in the biggest pothole I’ve ever seen, reaching out for the bollard to break my fall, only to discover it’s one of those new ones that bends. Needless to say, I hit the pavement with a thud while it cut through my knees and legs. A year later, I was left with a dark, long scar down the centre of my leg that depressed me every time I caught a glimpse of it. Then I heard about the UltraClear laser and let's just say this laser can take all my coins and then some because it worked absolute wonders.

“UltraClear is a modern fractional laser designed to resurface and remodel the skin,” explains Patel, who offers the laser at his clinic. “It works using controlled pulse durations and cooling to target deeper layers of the skin while sparing surface melanin. The controlled zones of injury it creates trigger collagen production and allow the skin to repair itself in a more uniform way,” he adds.

Its ability to resurface skin in such a precise way helps it rebuild in a more uniform manner, resulting in an improvement for both raised and indented scars as well as those with a different colour and texture to the surrounding skin. In the case of my scar, it took 4 sessions to render it unrecognisable and I couldn’t be happier.

Best laser for laxity: Stellar M22 ResurFX

Combine losing a lot of weight and being in my early 40’s and you‘ve got the perfect recipe for signs of laxity. This is because, as we age, our facial muscles lose tone, bone recedes and fat pads shift – this is then exaggerated when weight loss enters the chat. I felt like my face was sinking, my nasolabial folds were suddenly more pronounced, I had some jowling and my cheeks looked flatter, too. One of my favourite aesthetic doctors based at Harrods, London, Dr Marwa Ali, suggested I try the Stellar M22 ResurFX. Like most collagen boosting lasers, it “delivers hundreds of tiny columns of energy beneath the skin, to stimulate collagen renewal. But unlike lasers of old, it leaves the surface of the skin intact, lowering the risk of post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, which is a common concern when treating Black and brown skin,” explains Ali.

Skin needs to be numbed beforehand, so the treatment isn’t too spicy, but once numbed I hardly felt a thing. “It’s also highly customisable, as we can adjust energy, density and treatment patterns depending on the individual, which is important for safety when treating skin of colour,” Ali explains. In my case, this meant using lower energy and building results gradually, which I wasn’t mad about since I never had any downtime with this laser. After six sessions, my jawline looked snatched, my face was plumper, and my skin felt firmer, too.

Best laser for redness: V-Beam

For some of us, redness can be seen, while for other skin tones it’s less visible - but either way, the V-Beam laser can be really helpful. “V-Beam is a pulsed dye laser designed to target haemoglobin within blood vessels. And out of all the vascular lasers, it’s probably the safest for skin of colour because it's less absorbed in the skin than the 532 wavelength, which a lot of other vascular lasers use,” reveals Patel.

It targets everything from those tiny visible red blood vessels that typically appear around the nose, cheeks and chin to rosacea and post-acne redness as well as red, inflamed, tight or thick post-surgery scars. The latter is what I presented with after skin removal surgery on my arms, and Patel suggested our first course of action was to reduce blood flow to the area to dampen the inflammatory response and, hopefully, reduce the redness and flatten the scars.

When it comes to melanin-rich skin, “we often need more sessions, and in some cases, the redness may not be visible enough to treat effectively,” shares Patel. “But in the right patient, and with the right approach, it can be very effective.” I’m a few sessions in, and I’m noticing the redness has dissipated, but there’s still a way to go—but so far so good.

Things to keep in mind

Laser technology has come a long way, making treatments far more accessible to those of us with Black and brown skin, but that doesn’t remove risk entirely. The same device can produce very different outcomes depending on how it’s used, making who you see incredibly important. Treating melanin-rich skin requires an understanding of how to adjust settings such as energy, pulse duration and density to minimise heat build-up and reduce the risk of post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, hypopigmentation (a loss of pigment), burning, blistering, prolonged inflammation and even keloid scarring.

If you’re unsure where to begin, the British College of Aesthetic Medicine has launched its Vet It Before You Get It campaign, designed to help patients make informed decisions before treatment. Its questionnaires encourage you to check qualifications, training and registration, while also understanding the risks and safety measures your prospective practitioner has in place. For the best place to start, I’d suggest checking out the Black Skin Directory, a site dedicated to helping us find practitioners who have experience treating Black and brown skin.

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

Acid exfoliators come in wide varieties and strengths—some are quite intense and need to be incorporated into your routine slowly (glycolic acid, I’m looking at you) and others are gentle enough to be used on the most sensitive skin types. Ultimately, though, they all have the same goal: to slough away dead skin cells and reveal the brighter, smoother skin that lies beneath.

As someone with pretty sensitive, acne-prone skin, I’ve always been most drawn to lactic acid. Not only is it one of the gentler AHAs on the market (meaning it doesn’t make my skin break out or flare up), but it also has a hydrating effect, which makes my skin positively glow every time I use it.

And it’s not just for the face, either. As one of the gentler chemical exfoliators, lactic acid is also great for the body—providing a subtle yet effective way to exfoliate and hydrate skin conditions like keratosis pilaris without irritating sensitive skin or causing further flare-ups.

But what actually is lactic acid? What’s the best way to incorporate it into your routine? And crucially, with so many lactic acid-based serums, cleansers, and essences to choose from, which products are actually worth investing in? If you’re looking for an in-depth guide on lactic acid, you’ve come to the right place. I asked Consultant Dermatologists Dr Derrick Phillips and Dr Aiza Jamil for their expert insights on this widely used skincare ingredient.

What is Lactic Acid?

“Lactic acid is a gentle alpha hydroxy acid (AHA) derived from the fermentation of lactose found in milk, and it’s a widely used ingredient in skincare”, says Dr Phillips. "It’s a versatile ingredient that can help address a range of skin concerns but is particularly well known for its ability to encourage cellular turnover, helping to improve overall skin texture and radiance”. Despite its name, Dr Jamil assures me that most versions used within skincare are synthetic and vegan-friendly. “It is one of the most gentle chemical exfoliants”, she says.

So what’s the science behind it? “Lactic acid works by disrupting the bonds between dead skin cells in the outer layer of the skin, allowing them to be shed more easily”, explains Dr Phillips. "This process helps to reveal fresher, more radiant-looking skin, while also supporting clearer pores by reducing the build-up of dead skin cells on the surface.” Dr Jamil continues: “Compared to other, stronger AHAs such as glycolic acid, lactic acid is a larger molecule, so it penetrates more slowly and can be less irritating on the skin. It can improve skin texture and brightness, and can help to fade hyperpigmentation and dullness."

One thing I adore about lactic acid is how hydrating it is, making my skin feel drenched with water without feeling at all heavy or oily. Dr Phillips explains that this is because lactic acid also acts as a humectant, drawing water into the skin and supporting hydration alongside exfoliation. “As part of the skin’s natural moisturising factors, it helps to maintain moisture levels and keep the skin feeling soft and supple,” he tells me. “Regular use can help to improve overall skin texture, support a more even skin tone and reduce the appearance of pigmentation”.

What skin type is lactic acid best suited to?

Lactic acid hydrates while it gently softens, making it perfect for those with the notoriously hard-to-deal-with combination of dry and sensitive skin. Our experts both pointed out that it’s also great for those looking to address dullness, fine lines, uneven skin tone, and mild hyperpigmentation. But while it’s been hailed as an exfoliation saviour for sensitive skin, Dr Jamil still advises caution for those with a compromised skin barrier or active or inflamed acne: “I would recommend staying away from any acids, as although lactic acid is gentler in comparison to others, it may still be too aggressive or exfoliating”, she says.

How to incorporate lactic acid into your skincare regime

It’s hard to find a product that lactic acid can’t be used in—from cleansers and essences to serums and moisturisers. Dr Phillips tells me this hero ingredient can be incorporated into a routine in several ways, but as with any active ingredient, it’s best introduced gradually and used alongside a simple, barrier-supportive routine.

“Starting with a cleanser containing lactic acid offers a gentle way to exfoliate the skin and keep pores clear, without disrupting the skin barrier,” he says, but using a serum is often the most effective approach. "As it allows you to take advantage of both the exfoliating and hydrating properties of lactic acid in a more targeted way”.

It pairs exceptionally well with other actives, allowing you to get maximum skincare benefits from minimal products. As an example: “In the Genaura Levagen+ Smart Face Serum, lactic acid is combined with ingredients such as palmitoylethanolamide, niacinamide and panthenol,” says Dr Phillips. “This allows you to pair gentle exfoliation with barrier support and anti-inflammatory benefits, helping to improve overall skin texture, hydration and tone."

Dr Jamil points out that due to their exfoliating effects, it’s best to use any acid as part of your nighttime routine, after your cleanser and before your moisturiser (if using it as a serum). She also stresses the importance of introducing the ingredient gradually. “I would begin integrating it at two to three times per week at a lower concentration of around 5 to 10%," she says. “I would avoid layering with strong retinoids or other acids, as this can be too aggressive on the skin.” She also points out that AHAs increase sun sensitivity, so it’s important to always wear a high-factor SPF during the day.

How can lactic acid be used on the body?

The skinification of bodycare has really taken hold, and using ingredients like lactic acid can really boost the efficacy of our body creams, cleansers and serums. Dr Jamil tells me that lactic acid in body care can be particularly helpful for those who experience dry patches, rough or bumpy skin, keratosis pilaris, or ingrown hairs (goodbye uncomfortable bikini line).

So what lactic acid bodycare products should we look out for? “You can find body lotions or serums that have lactic acid in them, usually at around 10 to 12%," says Dr Jamil. "These can be used every other day to begin with and then worked up to every day if needed, as the skin on your body is tougher than the skin on your face." So the smoothing, hydrating effects of lactic acid can be extended to my entire body? Stunning.

Whether it’s the depths of winter or the height of summer, I can’t remember the last time I stepped foot outside the house without applying sunscreen to my face. Despite being pretty negligible with my SPF usage during my teens and early twenties, the fact that my job for the last decade has involved speaking to skin experts who regularly tout sunscreen as the most important factor in protecting skin health long-term means that I’ve been diligent about wearing SPF for years. However, it’s time to come clean: when it comes to my body, I have been far more relaxed about application.

Let’s be honest, here in the UK, where we spend so much of the year wrapped up in layers with grey skies above, it’s an oversight that’s all too easy. But after a recent conversation with a dermatologist, I’ve been reminded that UV rays really don’t take days off, and the consequences of exposure add up more than we think—that means pigmentation, loss of elasticity, a leathery skin texture and, in the worst case, skin cancer. So with spring’s arrival, I’m making a conscious effort to treat the skin on my body with the same care that I show to my face, and that means finding sun creams that are lightweight, non-greasy and genuinely enjoyable to wear every day.

Best SPFs for body at a glance:

• Best overall body SPF: CeraVe Invisible Hydrating Sunscreen SPF 50+ | £14 at Lookfantastic
• Best body SPF for travel: Gun Ana Moisturising High Protection UV Body Mist SPF 50 | £40 at Cult Beauty
• Best body SPF for dry skin: Ultra Violette Extreme Screen Hydrating Body & Hand Skinscreen SPF 50+ | £32.40 at Space NK
• Best body SPF for sensitive skin: La Roche-Posay Anthelios Hydrating Lotion SPF 50+ | £26 at Lookfantastic
• Best for glow: Nuxe Sun Oil Shimmering Gold SPF 50 | £29.50 at Cult Beauty
• Best for hot days: Vichy Capital Soleil Solar Protective Water SPF 50 | £22 at Lookfantastic
• Best SPF for wearing with white clothes: Caudalie Invisible High Protection Spray SPF 50 | £22 at Lookfantastic
• Best everyday body SPF: Supergoop! PLAY Everyday Lotion SPF 50 | £34 at Cult Beauty

Should we wear SPF every day on our body?

I’d love to give you an answer that requires less of a daily commitment but, in a word, yes. “Daily SPF is important because UV exposure occurs all year round, not just in the summer or on sunny days,” says Consultant Dermatologist Dr Derrick Phillips. “UVB, which is mainly responsible for sunburn, peaks in the warmer months, but UVA remains at steady levels throughout the year,” he explains. And it’s these UVA rays which are the ones that can pass through clouds and windows, so you’re always at risk of exposure, even on days that look grey or when you’re working inside by a window. “UVA penetrates deep into the skin, contributing to pigmentation, premature ageing, and plays a role in the development of skin cancer, so wearing SPF every day is a simple and effective way to protect your skin,” he says.

Choosing the best SPF for body

I’ll admit that one of the things that has put me off for a long time about applying sunscreen regularly to my body is that I’m always in a rush, and the thought of applying a layer of cream that’s going to feel tacky or stick to my clothes just isn’t it. Thankfully, modern SPF formulas are so much more advanced, and plenty of them are a joy to use. “Choosing the right SPF texture makes a big difference to how it feels on the skin and how likely you are to use it every day,” says Dr Phillips. “The best approach is to match the formulation to your skin type and how your skin behaves throughout the day. For sensitive skin, mineral filters can be helpful as they are generally well tolerated, while dry skin might benefit from richer creams that contain hydrating ingredients to prevent that tight feeling.”

How we tested

I’ve been putting a range of body SPFs to the test, and ahead I’m sharing the ones that have truly impressed me. I’ve been testing them over the last few weeks when the weather in the UK has been changeable to say the list, so all of the sunscreens in this list sink in quickly, don’t leave marks or cause discolouration to clothing, feel comfortable on the skin and, of course, offer broad-spectrum protection.

The best SPFs for body

1. CeraVe Invisible Hydrating Sunscreen SPF 50+

CeraVe’s newly launched Invisible sunscreen range is a brilliant all-rounder, not only does it provide broad-spectrum protection to your body, but you can use it on your face too. (A great option if you’re travelling and have limited room to pack!) Dr Phillips recommends it as a “lightweight, hydrating, non-greasy SPF…that’s highly effective at restoring and supporting the barrier and helping skin stay hydrated and better protected from external stressors” thanks to the brand’s blend of three essential ceramides. The texture is beautiful—creamy yet not heavy—and it feels more like a lightweight body lotion than SPF 50 sun protection. Great for everyday wear, I’ve found it’s become a staple in the bathroom cupboard for everyone in the family. Yes, even my fussy children who normally hate having sun cream applied.

2. Gun Ana Moisturising High Protection UV Body Mist SPF 50

Not only is this one of the chicest SPFs I’ve ever seen, but the lightweight packaging and spray applicator mean it’s one that I’ll have in my bag all summer long when I’m out and about. The formula itself is a water-based dry oil infused with rosehip and oat oils for a hit of hydration—perfect for combatting the dryness that can hit skin when it’s in the sun. It has an ultra-fine mist that makes topping up really easy, although it can be a little harder to make sure that you’re hitting every area compared with a traditional cream. However, it’s so delightful to use that you’ll be more than happy to mist away to make sure that your skin is protected with that reassuring SPF 50 coverage.

3. Ultra Violette Extreme Screen Hydrating Body & Hand Skinscreen SPF 50+

Ultra Violette is known for their concept of 'skinscreens', which are effectively SPFs formulated with skincare-first ingredients so they feel incredible on the skin. This one is perfect for anyone who’s ever struggled with sun creams that feel chalky, tight or dehydrating on this skin, as it’s the total antidote. It’s infused with pentavitin, which helps to lock moisture into the skin all day, soothing aloe, along with a subtle shimmer, makes even the driest of limbs look smooth and glowy. I especially love using it as a hand cream, where most of us tend to forget about sun protection entirely, as the texture is so beautifully silky and nourishing.

4. La Roche-Posay Anthelios Hydrating Lotion SPF 50+

Anyone out there who finds themselves dealing with prickly heat rash or general sun intolerance will get on well with this high-protection formula from dermatologist-approved skincare brand La Roche-Posay. It’s incredibly gentle, fragrance-free, and the milky texture means that it spreads over skin easily and blends in fast without you having to excessively rub sensitive skin. It isn’t a formula with lots of bells and whistles, but it does the job well and ensures that delicate skin has broad-spectrum protection. A particularly good choice if you’re looking for just one SPF that kids and adults will get on well with.

5. Nuxe Sun Oil Shimmering Gold SPF 50

This is an SPF made for holidays. Whether it’s adding a little glam when you’re lounging by the pool or for re-applying before you go for late afternoon cocktails, this luxurious oil glides over skin and imparts a golden shimmer that catches the light beautifully. I was a little dubious about using an oil formula at first, but it’s impressively fast-absorbing and doesn’t feel in the slightest bit greasy. Instead, skin is left with a silky, sheeny, expensive-looking finish and the most gorgeous glow. Plus, if you’ve ever smelt any of Nuxe’s products before, then it’s infused with their trademark scent and means you smell amazing too.

6. Vichy Capital Soleil Solar Protective Water SPF 50

During the height of summer, when skin can start to feel tight and dry, this is like a big drink of water for parched limbs, and it feels delightfully cool and fresh. Formulated with Vichy’s mineralising water and hyaluronic acid, it provides deep hydration along with SPF 50 protection. Best of all, though, there’s no heaviness or residue, so it’s ideal for really hot and sticky days or if you simply don’t love traditional sun creams.

7. Caudalie Invisible High Protection Spray SPF 50

There is truly nothing worse than applying your sun lotion only to find yellow marks on your clothing at the end of the day. Thankfully, this one from Caudalie delivers exactly what it promises on the bottle—SPF 50 protection with a totally invisible finish. And it truly does disappear into the skin, leaving no trace of white cast or stickiness, and absolutely no marks on your clothing. It’s a brilliant all-rounder as you can use it on your face too, and it also defends against blue light and infrared rays for added protection.

8. Supergoop! PLAY Everyday Lotion SPF 50

Supergoop! is one of my go-to brands for facial SPF, but I only recently discovered this brilliant does-it-all SPF. It’s a bit of a cult favourite in the industry, and for good reason—it covers all bases. Whatever you’re doing or whatever your skin type, chances are this sunscreen will appeal. It’s easy to apply, comfortable to wear, sinks in quickly, and provides broad-spectrum protection, and while it has the texture of a decent body lotion, it isn’t overly rich or cloying. Plus, you can get it in a variety of sizes, from a portable mini to an enormous half-litre bottle with a huge pump

Not to jinx it, but it does feel as though the first hints of warmer, sunnier days are beginning to creep in. With them comes the urge to recalibrate our beauty routines: a renewed focus on glowing, sun-kissed skin, lighter textures and fresher scents, and products that work hard, but feel effortless—much like a summer’s day.

This month’s edit captures that shift exactly. Complexion enhancers that deliver instant radiance, skincare that balances potency with skin-friendly formulations, and haircare that simplifies protection without sacrificing results.

These are the new beauty products that landed on our desks—and quickly made their way home with us.

I always thought I was pretty on top of things when it came to my skincare. After all, as a beauty writer, I get to test huge amounts of new skincare products day in, day out. So I didn’t expect a new addition, especially one I’d previously deemed unnecessary, to completely revolutionise my routine and transform my postpartum skin. What is this wonder product? I'm talking about the best essences, which I plan to outline for you in detail below.

But first, a little more about my skin (because context is important here). As someone who grew up with acne-prone, highly sensitive skin, learning which products and ingredients worked for me became crucial to keeping my skin concerns under control. I quickly discovered that the viral 10-plus-step routines simply weren’t for me—they exposed my skin to far too many potentially reactive ingredients and were altogether too much faff. Sticking to a cleanser, serum, moisturiser and SPF suited me just fine, so I’d basically written off essences as an unnecessary extra step to my pretty perfect routine.

Fast forward to autumn 2024, when I was newly postpartum. One habit I promised to stick to was maintaining my skincare routine. It’s always made me feel more put-together and ready for the day or night ahead—and trust me, when you have a night of 10 wake-up calls awaiting you, you want to feel as relaxed as possible in the build-up. So I decided to make my skincare routine feel that bit more special by adding an essence: Tatcha’s The Essence, to be exact.

To my surprise, my skin started to look even better than it had during my pregnancy—more glowy, plump and hydrated. And with fluctuating postpartum hormones and sleepless nights to contend with, that’s saying something. Since those early postpartum days, I’ve become essence-obsessed and added quite a few new picks to my repertoire. Now, having tried pretty much every essence on the market, I feel pretty well-positioned to round up the best ones to shop.

Before I go into a deep dive on why these essences are so great, I wanted to find out a little more about what essences actually are and how best to use them. So I asked Dr Christine Hall, Pharmacist, Aesthetic Doctor and Glass Skin specialist, for her insights.

Best essences of 2026 at a glance:

• Best luxury essence | £81.60 at Space NK
• Best essence for sensitive skin | £27 at Sephora
• Best exfoliating essence | £78 at Lookfantastic
• Best essence for dry skin | £32 at Rhode
• Best affordable essence | £21 at Lookfantastic
• Best brightening essence | £26.40 at Space NK
• Best essence for longevity | £80 at John Lewis

What is an essence?

“An essence is a skincare product that sits between a toner and a serum”, says Dr Christine. “Thicker in consistency than a toner but not with the same viscosity or level of active ingredients as a serum.

“Light weight and designed with hydration in mind, essences originated from South Korea and gained popularity in the late 1990s”, she continues. “They typically contain humectants such as glycerin or hyaluronic acid, which draw water into the outermost layer of the skin—the stratum corneum—helping to maintain optimal hydration levels and also improve the absorption of subsequent layers of skincare.”

Dr Christine tells me that many modern essences, particularly those influenced by K-Beauty, also include ingredients that support the skin barrier and microbiome, such as fermented extracts, amino acids, and mild anti-inflammatory compounds. She says “these can help improve skin resilience, reduce transepidermal water loss (TEWL), and create that sought-after “glass skin” appearance all whilst providing another level of hydration”.

How do you use an essence?

Essences can be a pretty expensive addition to your routine, so what’s the best way to apply them, and how to get the most out of every drop? “Essences are applied after cleansing and, if you use one, toner, but before serums and moisturisers”, says Dr Christine. “The idea is to apply them onto slightly damp skin to maximise hydration”.

She recommends dispensing a small amount into your hands rather than using a cotton pad and gently pressing it into the skin: “This technique minimises product waste. You can apply one or two layers depending on how dehydrated your skin feels; this layering technique is very common in Korean skincare routines”.

“From a physiological perspective, applying an essence first helps to balance the pH and prepare the skin by softening the stratum corneum, allowing subsequent active ingredients to penetrate more effectively," Dr Christine adds. So essentially, your essence makes all your other skincare products work harder. How lovely.

Are essences necessary?

“Strictly speaking, no single product is necessary in skincare, and that includes essences”, points out Dr Christine. “Ultimately, they are another type of liquid skincare formulation. However, essences can be highly beneficial for those who suffer from dry skin, sensitivity, or a compromised skin barrier. Conversely, those with oily or acne-prone skin sometimes find that including an essence in their routine negates the need for a moisturiser”. So for some, essences might even replace a skincare step that doesn’t currently work for them, by adding hydration without any heaviness.

Dr Christine continues: “In my clinical experience, many patients focus heavily on active ingredients but often neglect hydration. An essence helps to create a well-hydrated, balanced environment in which active ingredients can work more effectively and with fewer side effects.

“So while not essential, I often consider essences a valuable step, especially in urban environments like London, where environmental stressors such as pollution and hard water can impair the skin barrier.”

How to choose the best essence

Dr Christine advises looking for essences that include formulations with fermented ingredients to support the microbiome, panthenol for soothing and barrier repair, and low molecular weight hyaluronic acid for deeper hydration. "The best essence is one that complements your skin type and overall routine. When chosen well, it’s a subtle but powerful step that can elevate the health and appearance of your skin over time”.

Best essences to shop in 2026:

1. Tatcha The Essence

This was the first essence I’d ever tried, and it had me hooked from the first use. Yes, it’s expensive, but in my opinion, it’s so worth it. This essence feels as light as water but is packed full of hydrating and plumping ingredients like Akita rice, Okinawa algae and Uji green tea. The clever spout allows the product to trickle, rather than spill out, so you don’t waste any product (and when a product costs upwards of £100, you’re going to want to save every last drop). It leaves my skin feeling hydrated, plump and glowing without any tackiness or oily residue whatsoever.

2. Aestura Atobarrier 365 Hydro essence

Not only is Aestura’s essence affordable, but it’s also my favourite pick for when my skin is feeling sensitive or inflamed, and it’s one of Dr Christine’s top choices too: “One of my personal favourite essences is the Atobarrier 365 Hydro Essence from Aestura. What sets it apart is its focus on barrier repair, so it is great for dry or compromised skin. It contains ceramides, cholesterol, and fatty acids in ratios that closely mimic the skin’s natural lipid composition.

“I find it especially effective for patients with dry, sensitive, or post-procedure skin, as it supports recovery without overwhelming the skin. As someone prone to acne myself—it also didn’t break me out and made my sometimes harsh actives much more tolerable.” – Dr Christine Hall, Aesthetics Doctor and K-Beauty specialist

3. Augustinus Bader The Essence

I’ve loved every Augustinus Bader product I’ve ever tried, and The Essence was no exception. It feels as light on the skin as water, although I’d say it does have more of a wet, slightly silky finish than the Tatcha essence above. I’m a fan of this, though, as it helps my serum and moisturiser to sink into my skin more easily. It combines TFC8® (the brand’s advanced technology that optimises the performance of active ingredients) with a blend of gentle chemical exfoliants and hydrating ingredients to buff away dead skin cells and inject moisture. The result? Gorgeously soft, smooth and plump skin.

4. Rhode Glazing Milk ceramide facial essence

This is another of Dr Christine’s favourites – and mine too. As the name suggests, Rhode’s bestselling essence has a milky consistency and is packed full of nourishing ceramides. I’ve often applied this straight after cleansing and forgotten to follow up with serum and moisturiser—that’s how comfortably hydrated it makes my skin feel. When I want to look my glowiest, I reach for this. It’s a beautiful boost of hydration, all packaged up in a sleek, rounded, luxurious-feeling bottle.

5. Haruharu Wonder black rice probiotics barrier essence

This milky essence from Korean skincare brand haruharu wonder was suggested to me by Dr. Christine. It’s a new one for me and I’m already a huge fan, as it leaves my skin looking so supple and smooth. It uses a blend of ceramides and fatty acids to replenish lost moisture and lock in hydration. It’s super affordable, and honestly? It’s way better than some of the far more expensive essences I’ve tried.

6. Neogen Real Ferment micro essence

Fermented ingredients are a staple in Korean skincare, supporting the skin barrier and microbiome and delivering quick hydration and a brightening boost to dull, dry skin. This essence has an over 90% natural bio-fermented complex, meaning it’s packed full of those nourishing and brightening benefits. It sinks in quickly, leaving my skin a little tacky—the perfect base for serum, moisturiser, and make-up. I love to use this in the morning (particularly after a rough night’s sleep). It brightens my skin like no other.

7. Eve Lom Time Retreat Restorative Skin Essence

I’ve been a fan of Eve Lom’s Time Retreat range for a while, and this lightweight, water-like essence is worth every penny. It uses milk thistle (a gentle botanical retinol alternative) which my skin loves, along with prebiotic oat kernel and wild indigo to help boost the skin’s collagen and reduce the visible effects of skin stress. Using this regularly has genuinely made my fine lines look smoother, plumper and more hydrated—all while using gentle, calming ingredients.

When I had appendicitis, I remember my then-boss's words echoing in my ear as I counted backwards on the surgery table, “Request keyhole. You don’t want a massive scar!” I did, and the three minuscule marks left behind were almost undetectable, as if the trauma never happened. Many of my girlfriends had C-sections, and most proudly rub their lower tummy, calling their scars ‘warrior marks’ or ‘love lines. “These scars represent saving my child’s life”, one told me. While actor Amy Schumer showed off her scar on social media, saying ‘Feeling like my C-section looks cute today!’ she wrote.

Scars are a perfectly normal reaction of the body and can tell a story about your life, but not everyone wishes to embrace them, and that’s fine, too. If you've ever tried to fade or heal your scars, you know that it's easier said than done. “Even five years ago, the options for scarring were fairly limited—you were largely looking at ablative lasers or resurfacing, which came with significant downtime,” explains Emma Wedgwood, advanced nurse practitioner at Emma Wedgwood Aesthetics.

“Scar treatment has moved on enormously in the last decade, but the most important step in understanding your options is still the simplest one—identifying exactly what type of scar you’re dealing with," adds Dr Sophie Shotter. Most people will experience some form of scarring during their lifetime. Yet, while they may appear similar to the untrained eye, their biology can be completely different. “A keloid scar, an acne scar and a stretch mark might all be called scars, but biologically they behave completely differently, which means the treatment options are completely different too.”

Below, we break down the most common types of scars—what causes them, how to recognise them and, crucially, which treatments are most likely to make a difference. “As soon as you identify the scar type correctly, you’re on the right path,” says Shotter.

Atrophic scars (depressed scars)

“Atrophic scars sit below the surface of the skin—they’re essentially small depressions where collagen has been lost during the healing process,” explains Wedgwood. “Acne scarring is the most common example, and within that you’ll see ice pick scars, which are narrow and deep; boxcar scars, which are broader with defined edges; and rolling scars, which create a wave-like unevenness across the skin.” In real life, these scars often appear as shallow dips or deeper pitted marks that catch the light differently from the surrounding skin—something many people notice when applying makeup or under certain lighting.

What causes them? Inflammatory acne, Chickenpox scars, and injuries that damage collagen. “Inflammation is the key trigger,” Wedgwood adds. “When the skin is dealing with a lot of inflammation, collagen can be damaged in the healing process, and unfortunately, the skin doesn’t always rebuild itself evenly.”

What treatments work best? The most effective treatments are those that stimulate collagen or release the tethering underneath the scar. “With atrophic acne scarring, we’re looking to stimulate collagen remodelling,” says Wedgwood. “Precision laser treatments, microneedling and polynucleotides can all be effective depending on the depth and type of scarring.” Shotter agrees that combination is key: “These scars often need a layered approach—one treatment alone rarely delivers the kind of change patients are hoping for.” Topicals won’t erase an atrophic scar, but they can support overall skin quality. “Ingredients like retinoids, vitamin C and peptides can help improve texture and make the skin look more even,” says Shotter. “Think of them as supportive rather than corrective.”

Hypertrophic scars (raised scars)

Hypertrophic scars are raised, thick scars that stay within the boundary of the original injury. They form when the body produces too much collagen during healing. “These scars are essentially the opposite problem to atrophic scarring,” says Wedgwood. “The body overproduces collagen during healing, creating raised, often firm tissue.” They’re firm, raised and sometimes red or itchy, but importantly, they don’t grow beyond the original wound. There is a genetic predisposition; some skin types are significantly more prone to this kind of scarring.

What causes them? Surgery, such as a C-section, burns, cuts, and piercings. “We tend to see these in areas where the skin is under tension as it heals,” explains Shotter. “That ongoing stress can encourage excess collagen production.”

What treatments work best? “With hypertrophic scars, we’re usually trying to calm down collagen production rather than stimulate it,” says Shotter. Steroid injections, silicone-based topicals, and sometimes laser therapy can help reduce redness and flatten the tissue. “These scars need patience and realistic expectations," adds Wedgwood. They don’t change overnight, but they can improve significantly with the right approach. Silicone gels remain the gold standard. “They help hydrate the scar and regulate collagen formation during healing,” says Shotter. “I’ll often also recommend daily massage to help the scar mature more evenly.”

Keloid scars

Keloids are essentially scars that don’t know when to stop growing. “Hypertrophic scars stay within the boundaries of the original wound, while keloids grow beyond it,” explains Wedgwood. They’re thick, shiny, often darker than the surrounding skin and can continue expanding outside the original injury. “They can be itchy or uncomfortable."

What causes them? They are more common after skin injury, and can often appear after ear piercing. Some form due to burns, acne scars and wounds that become infected or where the skin becomes significantly tight whilst healing. According to Wedgwood, there is a strong genetic influence, too. "Some people are simply more prone to this type of scarring, which is why prevention and early management are so important.”

What treatments work best? “Keloids require a very controlled medical approach because stimulating treatments can sometimes worsen them,” says Shotter. Common options include steroid injections, cryotherapy, laser therapy and surgical removal combined with injections. Silicone gels can help early on, but established keloids usually need in-clinic treatment.

Stretch marks (striae)

"Stretch marks are technically a type of scar caused by the skin stretching faster than collagen can adapt," says Shotter. Immature stretch marks are generally pink, red or purplish in colour (Striae Rubrae) in fair-toned skin, but can take on a darker or even black appearance (Striae Nigra) in darker-toned skin. “What’s happening beneath the surface is a disruption to collagen and elastin fibres," explains Wedwood. Mature stretch marks (Striae Albae) are simply older, faded versions of red or dark scarring, and are very common.

What causes them? Changes in your body, such as pregnancy and hormones, cause your skin to stretch, weakening its fibres. Rapid weight changes put pressure on the skin's fibres, which in turn can cause stretch marks to appear.

What treatments work best? “Early stretch marks respond best to treatment,” says Shotter. “Early stretch marks respond best to treatment,” says Shotter. “While they’re still red or purple, there’s more we can do.” Laser therapy, microneedling and radiofrequency microneedling can all help improve their appearance. “Once they’ve turned white, they’re harder to treat—but not impossible,” adds Shotter. It just requires more consistency and realistic expectations. "Retinoids and collagen-stimulating ingredients can help early stretch marks look less visible." Whilst these will not do much to reduce the actual stretch marks themselves, applying self-tan can help to temporarily minimise the colour difference between stretch marks and your skin tone.

Shop topical scar treatments

If sunscreen isn’t already a non-negotiable in your skincare routine, then let spring’s arrival be your sign, with the (hopefully) sunnier days meaning we’ll all be shedding our winter layers and spending some more time outdoors. And that means that SPF isn’t optional, it’s essential to keeping your skin healthy and protected in the brighter weather. However, if you’re anything like me, then the thought of adding another step to your morning routine might feel a little jarring. Which is exactly where an SPF with benefits comes in.

More than just a basic sunscreen, the newest generation of SPFs goes far beyond protection alone, with many doubling up as skin tints, boosting glow, warding off insects or even replacing your blusher. As someone who is always looking for products that will streamline my routine rather than add more steps, these multitasking SPFs are the ultimate beauty overachievers. All while delivering that all-important shield against UV damage, naturally.

Ahead, I’ve rounded up the smartest sunscreens and my favourite SPFs with added benefits so that you don’t have to layer product upon product for the same results. Whether you want a hint of coverage, a little extra radiance, or a more practical extra for a day spent outdoors, these formulas prove that sunscreen can offer a whole lot more than just protection from the sun.

The best SPFs with benefits

1. Merit The Uniform Tinted Mineral Sunscreen SPF 50

The perfect hybrid of skincare and make-up, this mineral SPF offers up all the protection you’d expect from a broad-spectrum SPF 50 with the added bonus of being infused with pigments to even skin tone. As someone who rarely wears a full face of make-up on a daily basis, I was pleasantly surprised by the coverage that this does provide—yes, it’s sheer, but it blurs over redness and pigmentation and leaves skin looking velvety-smooth and even. I just apply a little bit of concealer on top and off I go for the day. Available in 15 shades, it’s the perfect multitasker for busy mornings when you want to be both polished and protected.

2. Naked Sundays SPF50 Glow Balm Mineral Peptide Stick

I wasn’t entirely sure how useful a sunscreen-infused blusher would actually be, but this nifty stick has fast become a handbag staple for me. The formula itself is infused with peptides, vitamin E and avocado seed oil to give it a beautifully creamy and blendable texture that truly glides over skin and can be blended out in seconds using your fingertips, delivering a pop of dewy colour to skin. As someone who often looks quite washed-out and tired after lunch, it’s a brilliant pick-me-up to have on hand, and I love the fact that it also contains sunscreen as an added layer of protection. Of course, you will still need to have applied an SPF all over your face at the start of the day, but it’s a nice additional barrier—especially on areas like the tops of my cheeks or the bridge of my nose where I have been burnt in the past.

3. Supergoop! Glowscreen SPF 30

One of my most-used SPFs, this cult product from Supergoop is better than almost any glow-boosting make-up primer I’ve used and has the added bonus of being your sun protection for the day too. I recently finished a tube of this in the shade Dawn (a pretty pearlescent pink) and will be rushing to repurchase, as my skin simply doesn’t look as good on mornings when I don’t apply it. Worn alone, it makes skin look instantly brighter and more sheeny, but it also works well layered under a foundation that could benefit from a little extra luminosity. There are different shades available too, so if you prefer more of a golden glow or something more opalescent, there will be a formula to suit.

4. Allies of Skin Sunless Tan SPF 50 Sunscreen + Self-Tanner

This is one of the smartest sunscreens I’ve tried: a daily SPF that builds a gradual tan. It really does solve the dilemma of wanting glowy, sun-kissed skin without compromising on protection. It works by gradually building a natural-looking tan with DHA (the active ingredient in most tanning products), while also caring for skin with a broad-spectrum SPF and a range of antioxidants like vitamin C and centella asiatica. The result is that after a few days, you’ll notice that your skin has a natural warmth and radiance to it, without you having had to faff about with a separate tanner in your routine.

5. Green People Sun Cream SPF15 with Insect Repellent

A brilliant multitasker for holidays or if you’re spending a lot of time outside in nature, this SPF is like a natural barrier against bugs and insects. It’s infused with Citrepel®75—a DEET-free insect repellent that uses a plant-based approach to protecting skin from mosquitoes, midges, and other gnats. Plus, it contains soothing aloe vera, peppermint and lemon eucalyptus that smells amazing to humans but less so to bothersome bugs. It’s gentle, nourishing and practical, but not one to rely on for intense sun exposure due to the lower SPF.

6. Kopari Sun Veil Illuminating Powder Sunscreen SPF 30

Admittedly, a powder SPF sounded a little gimmicky to me at first, but actually, there are a ton of benefits to adding this powder sunscreen to your arsenal. For me, this is a touch-up product—one to chuck in your handbag and use during the day when you want to boost your sun protection. The added bonus, of course, is that this not only provides SPF 30 but it adds a beautifully bronzy glow to skin, so it doubles up as a radiance boost too. It’s subtle, more of a soft-focus glow than a sparkly tan, but it instantly illuminates skin. Plus, I’ve found it’s great for getting into trickier areas like around the hairline and even my parting, which are often forgotten. Bonus points for the beautiful compact too.

7. Ultra Violette Disco Queen Luminous Body Oil SPF 50

Body SPF is usually something I apply and forget and, typically, I’m rubbish at applying it unless I’m on holiday or it’s particularly hot in the UK. This year, however, I’ve made it my mission to prioritise full body protection and this high-protection sunscreen disguised as a shimmering body oil has really elevated the whole experience.. The finish is glossy, luminous, and (dare I say it) quite expensive-looking, which makes it perfect for days when you have your arms and legs out. But even if they’re tucked away, the sensorial appeal of this product makes it feel like a really indulgent, hydrating treat for the skin. In fact, I find myself happily reapplying it purely because I love how it looks and feels—the SPF almost feels like the added benefit.

8. Murad City Skin Age Defense Broad Spectrum SPF 50

As someone who lives in London, I have relied on this SPF for years to protect my skin and help it thrive in a city environment. Of course, it has high UV protection as standard, but this formula has been created specifically with urban living in mind. It contains a polymer matrix that acts as a breathable shield against pollution and toxins alongside lutein to defend against the effects of blue light. Plus, it’s infused with a peachy tint that helps colour-correct, even skin tone, and boost brightness at the same time. An impressive all-rounder that’s way more than just a sunscreen.

With so many skincare acids on offer, it can feel like you need a glossary just to keep up. One ingredient, however, needs no introduction: salicylic acid.

A long-standing mainstay, salicylic acid was one of the first acids to break into the mainstream and remains one of the most widely used to this day. Part of the beta-hydroxy acid (BHA) family—and the only BHA commonly used in skincare—it works by penetrating deeper than surface-level exfoliants, helping to unclog pores, smooth texture and reduce breakouts.

And while it may be considered old school in terms of buzz-worthy new ingredients, salicylic acid continues to prove its relevance, with new formulations and technologies ensuring it still earns its place in today’s routines.

What are the benefits of salicylic acid?

“Salicylic acid is oil-soluble. This allows it to work deep within the pore, unlike Alpha Hydroxy Acids (AHAs), which act more on the surface,” explains Dr. Ifeoma Ejikeme, medical consultant, skin specialist, and founder of Adonia Medical Clinic. As a result, it not only helps treat existing blemishes but also works preventively, keeping pores clear (of sebum and dead skin cells) before spots can even develop.

It works by loosening the bonds between dead skin cells so they shed more easily, stopping any buildup of what is often referred to as 'gunk'. “When used appropriately, it can support long-term maintenance of clearer, more balanced skin,” Dr. Ejikeme says.

Can everyone use salicylic acid?

As a derivative of aspirin, it naturally has anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial benefits, making it a super useful ingredient for calming congested, reactive skin. On the other hand, it’s not an ingredient that everyone agrees with. Some people experience stinging or irritation, and those with aspirin allergies are advised to avoid it altogether.

“It is generally recommended to avoid salicylic acid during pregnancy, as high doses of salicylates may pose a risk,” says Dr Malvina Cunningham, consultant dermatologist at Renew + Me. She also recommends checking with a doctor before starting if you’re using prescription treatments or dealing with skin conditions such as dermatitis.

What other products should I use with salicylic acid?

“The most common mistakes people make is using too much, choosing formulations that are too harsh for their skin, and not using sunscreen,” Dr Cunningham says. Misuse can result in damage to the skin barrier, and it’s something you’ll definitely notice. “Your skin may initially feel tight and uncomfortable, before developing flaking and redness,” she goes on to explain. “This can then lead to stinging and burning, with increased sensitivity overall. If this happens, stop using salicylic acid and focus on repairing the skin with a gentle cleanser and a barrier-supporting moisturiser containing ceramides until it recovers.”

When used correctly, it can be incredibly effective. How you use it, as well as the other products that make up your routine, are important. “Alongside a good moisturiser that protects the skin barrier—look for ingredients such as ectoin and hyaluronic acid—and always paired with sunscreen, it can be a great ingredient even for sensitive skin at low concentrations,” Dr Cunninghan says.

How should I start using salicylic acid?

If you’re just starting out, less really is more. “I strongly recommend trying lower concentrations first, such as 0.5%–1%, and using it once or twice a week to begin with,” Dr Cunningham says. “Only increase frequency if your skin tolerates it. I also recommend doing a patch test, especially if you have sensitive skin.”

Can I use salicylic acid on my scalp?

Beyond facial skincare, salicylic acid has made a name for itself in body and haircare, too. “Because it removes dead skin cells, it’s commonly used in products for dandruff and other scaly scalp conditions, such as psoriasis,” Dr Cunningham explains. Like with skincare, for anyone with a sensitive scalp, it’s always recommended to proceed with caution. But otherwise, salicylic acid is a great product to incorporate into your haircare routine. Our scalps are prime areas for buildup, which can lead to many scalp issues. The addition of salicylic acid can help maintain that buildup, preventing issues.

Can salicylic acid help with body acne?

It’s equally effective in body care. “Salicylic acid works beautifully here because it’s oil-soluble, so it can penetrate pores and dissolve the build-up of oil and dead skin,” says Hafsa Issa-Salwe, facialist and co-founder of Botanical Mission Skin Clinic. “Without exfoliation, you’re more prone to congestion, breakouts and rough texture. I love it for keratosis pilaris and body acne, especially when combined with ingredients like urea, which add an extra softening effect. It’s great for areas like the backs of the arms, thighs and even cracked heels.”

The ingredient shows no signs of slowing down. “Combination products are increasingly the norm, particularly in the breakout space,” says Dr Cunningham. “Formulations that pair salicylic acid with other actives, such as retinoids, can offer added benefits, while newer technologies are focused on improving tolerability.”

The future is looking bright for salicylic acid, and there’s a reason salicylic acid remains a skincare staple. Used well, it’s a hardworking, multi-tasking ingredient that helps keep skin clear, calm and balanced—no chemistry degree required.

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It’s officially spring. The cherry blossoms are blossoming, the ‘groundbreaking floral’ quotes are circulating, and you’re probably starting to expose the occasional arm or leg as the weather *finally* warms up. If you have keratosis pilaris, you might be thinking about how best to hydrate and soften any areas affected.

KP (as it’s known for short) is quite common (it affects 1 in 3 people in the UK) and actually pretty harmless. Distinguished by raised bumps on the skin that resemble goosebumps, and often referred to as ‘chicken skin’, keratosis pilaris is usually painless. But let’s be honest, the rough, dry texture can be a bit annoying – particularly now summer is on the horizon. So if you’re intrigued to know what causes KP, whether it can be treated, and how to manage it if you have particularly sensitive skin, I’ve got you. I reached out to Dermatologist and founder of Libi and Daughters, Dr Inna Szalontay and Consultant Dermatologist, Dr Derrick Phillps for their expert insights.

If you’re after the best products to improve the appearance of KP, Marie Claire’s beauty editor Nessa has rounded up her tried and tested favourites (and trust me – she’s tested a fair few). But for an in-depth look at keratosis pilaris, read on for our experts’ two cents.

What is keratosis pilaris?

Consultant Dermatologist Dr Derrick, explains: “keratosis pilaris (KP) is a common skin condition that manifests as small, rough bumps on the skin. These bumps are painless and typically appear around hair follicles. They’re caused by an excess buildup of keratin, a protein that forms the outer layer of skin, hair and nails. The keratin blocks the hair follicles, creating a rough, bumpy texture which often resembles goosebumps”.

Dr. Inna adds, “It most commonly appears on the upper arms, thighs, buttocks, or cheeks and may look slightly red, skin-coloured, or brown. It is not contagious or dangerous and is more frequently seen in children, teenagers, and individuals with dry skin or eczema.”

What causes KP?

Unlike some skin conditions which can be caused by environmental triggers, it’s pretty hard to explain why keratosis pilaris affects some people and not others. “KP is caused by a build-up of keratin, a natural protein that protects the skin”, explains Dr Inna, “in some individuals, excess keratin blocks the hair follicles, leading to the characteristic bumps”.

“It’s believed to have a genetic component and often runs in families”, continues Dr Derrick, “people with dry skin conditions like eczema are more likely to develop it.” So if you’re particularly prone to dry skin, or your parents have KP, you’re more likely to develop it yourself.

What are the best ways to treat KP?

With both of our experts, the consensus is clear: although treatment is not medically necessary, the most effective way to improve the appearance of keratosis pilaris is to focus on gentle exfoliation and consistent hydration. “Ingredients such as urea, lactic acid, salicylic acid and glycolic acid can help to soften and break down the keratin build-up within the hair follicles, improving the skin’s texture over time”, says Dr Derrick, and “mandelic acid can also be a useful option, particularly for more sensitive skin types, as it offers gentle exfoliation with a lower risk of irritation”. Keeping the skin well hydrated is also essential, he stresses, “supporting the skin barrier helps to reduce dryness, which can otherwise make the condition appear more noticeable”.

“In some cases”, he continues, “topical retinoids may be recommended to help normalise cell turnover and reduce follicular plugging. For more persistent or treatment-resistant cases, in-clinic options such as chemical peels or laser treatments can be considered, but these work best when combined with a consistent, well-balanced at-home routine.”

So on the whole, a consistent and gentle skincare routine is your best bet. According to Dr Inna, it’s also just as important to avoid factors that may worsen the condition, such as harsh scrubbing or aggressive exfoliation, picking or squeezing the bumps, taking very hot showers or baths, using strong soaps or heavily fragranced products, and wearing tight clothing that causes friction.

How to treat KP in children

Most treatments for keratosis pilaris contain strong active ingredients, but how to find the right balance between gentle and effective treatment when it comes to managing KP in children? Once again, our expert dermatologists are in agreement: “treatment in children should be especially gentle”, says Dr Inna, “regular moisturising with mild, nourishing products is usually sufficient”. Dr Derrick suggests you “focus on supporting the skin barrier rather than aggressively treating it.”

In terms of best products to use, he advises a “simple, regular use of moisturisers containing ingredients such as low-strength urea (around 5–10%) or lactic acid can help to soften the keratin build-up and smooth the skin over time. The emphasis should be on consistency rather than intensity”. He continues, “in most cases, keratosis pilaris in children is entirely harmless and tends to improve with age, so a calm, low-intervention approach is usually the most appropriate.”

In most cases (and especially when dealing with particularly sensitive skin), natural remedies can be incredibly effective while still remaining super gentle on the skin. Dr Inna suggests a soothing oatmeal and honey mask for both children and adults with sensitive skin. Find the recipe below:

• 2 tbsp finely ground oatmeal
• 1 tbsp honey (if no allergy)
• 1 tbsp plain yogurt
• 1 tsp coconut oil (optional)
• 1 tsp olive oil
• 1–2 tsp rice starch

Mix all ingredients into a thick paste. Apply to clean, slightly damp skin and gently massage in circular motions for 30–60 seconds. Leave on for 10–15 minutes, then rinse with lukewarm water and pat dry. This can be used 2–3 times per week. Avoid harsh scrubbing, as gentle care is more effective.

Expert-recommended products for keratosis pilaris:

In terms of treatment, what products would our experts recommend for helping to improve the appearance of KP? “When it comes to keratosis pilaris, I tend to recommend products that combine gentle exfoliation with barrier support, rather than anything overly aggressive” says Dr Derrick.

Getting older is inevitable. From the moment we're born, the ageing process begins. When we think of skin ageing, we immediately think of fine lines and wrinkles. We spend much of our disposable income and hours in front of our bathroom mirror trying to smooth them out. But there is so much more to the narrative. Did you know that there are subtle changes that begin to occur much earlier in our lives?

Clinic Lead Aesthetician and Skincare Consultant at Revive Clinic, Dr Kevita Bains, reveals that there are, in fact, some early tell-tale signs that you're probably unaware of. Here she talks us through them and explains what can be done to tackle each one head-on.

1. Pronounced smile lines

The 'ageing process' starts in our mid-20s when our collagen production naturally starts to slow down by about 1% each year. This increases as we get older. Dr Bains explains that during the first five years of menopause, we can lose around 30%, followed by an 2% every year thereafter. Collagen is crucial for bouncy and firm skin, so if your stocks are low every time you smile, laugh or open your mouth, the creases around your mouth can deepen quickly.

"The depth and visibility depend on your genetics, sun exposure, and how much your face moves throughout the day," she says. "As a basic rule, protect your skin every four hours with SPF50 with PA++++ for maximum broad-spectrum protection against UVA and UVB rays. In the evening, a well-formulated retinol or retinal can help stimulate collagen production and improve fine lines over time. Start slowly, two to three nights a week, to avoid irritation. If your smile lines have deepened with age, a course of microneedling treatments can help stimulate new collagen production within the dermis, gradually improving skin firmness and softening the appearance of wrinkles."

2. Under-eye hollowing

Do you ever catch sight of yourself in the mirror and, even if you've slept a full eight hours each night over the past week, you still look exhausted? This is an early indication of skin ageing. "As you get older, you lose fat in this region, and the bone structure underneath can shift slightly," explains Dr Bains. "This creates a hollow appearance that makes you look tired, even when you're well-rested. It's not wrinkles or sagging exactly, but rather a loss of volume that changes the contours of your face."

If this is something that you've noticed (and it won't affect everyone in the same way), then caffeine eye creams are a good way to try to reduce puffiness and improve circulation in the area. The bad news is that no eye cream will help to restore volume. "Only tear-trough filler administered by a qualified aesthetician can replace volume loss and create a smoother transition between the cheek and under-eye area," Dr Bains says.

3. Enlarged pores

If you've got oily or combination skin, you're probably used to contending with enlarged pores caused by excess sebum. However, Dr Rains notes that as we age and our collagen depletes, the skin around the pores sags, making the pores appear larger. "Sun damage accelerates this process, which is why people with years of sun exposure notice enlarged pores more prominently," she explains. "The frustrating part is that enlarged pores can make your skin texture look rougher overall, even if you don't have active breakouts. They're particularly noticeable on the cheeks and nose, where oil production is higher."

Tackling enlarged pores requires collagen-boosting products, as well as targeted skincare to keep the pores clean. Retinoids stimulate collagen production, vitamin C is essential for collagen synthesis, niacinamide helps improve skin elasticity and regulate oil, and AHAs and BHAs will help to exfoliate the surface and clear out dirt from the pores. "Consider HydraFacial to remove deep-seated congestion, excess oil and dead skin cells while simultaneously infusing hydration, leaving pores looking clearer after just one session," suggests Dr Bains.

4. Jawline definition loss

"Your jawline is defined by collagen and elastin in the skin, plus the underlying bone and muscle structure," says Dr Bains. "As collagen declines with age, the skin loses its grip on these structures, and the jawline becomes less defined."

What does this look like? A softness around the chin area that might be tricky to see where your face ends and your neck begins. For long-term structural treatment, "dermal filler along the jawline, often combined with restoring volume in the mid-face first, can help redefine contours while keeping results natural and balanced."

5. Neck creases

Whilst we all wish our screen time stats were lower, the truth is we are at the mercy of our phones, and as a result, the term tech neck is now a recognised postural issue. And whilst most complain of hunched shoulders and stiffness, it also causes lines to appear on the neck. "This constant bending creates horizontal creases that break down collagen and elastin over time," Dr Bains says. "The more you look down, the deeper these creases become, and they can appear surprisingly early if you spend hours daily hunched over your device." Which, let's be honest, so many of us do.

So, apart from holding our devices up to our eye line, what else can we do? The aesthetician says that gentle neck stretches and posture correction are an effective at-home solution. "Take regular breaks for shoulder rolls to release tension, neck tilts to stretch the lateral neck muscles and chin tucks to encourage better posture throughout the day. Practising these stretches several times a day, especially during work breaks, can help minimise repetitive tension and reduce the likelihood of new creases forming over time."

6. Dullness

We associate a glowy complexion with young and healthy skin, and quite rightly. In our younger years, our skin naturally sheds dead skin cells and replaces them with fresh ones at a thriving rate, revealing a natural radiance below. But, as with so many things, cell turnover slows down as we get older. This causes dead cells to accumulate on the skin surface, causing dullness. "You might notice your skin doesn't glow the way it used to, even when you're well-hydrated and well-rested," Dr Bains notes. "Luckily, it's one of the easiest signs of ageing to address. Chemically exfoliating once a week with a combination of 2% mandelic and 2% lactic acid is gentler than harsh physical scrubs and works well for most skin types. In clinic, you can explore professional chemical peels, which work at a deeper level to accelerate cell turnover and revive dull skin."

7. Hyperpigmentation

Pigmentation appears on our skin long after the damage has been done. Dr Bains says that the patches of uneven tone, freckles and dark spots caused by improper sun protection in our teens and twenties often appear gradually in our 30s. "These patches often appear on the face, hands, and chest, areas that get the most sun exposure. They're also one of the hardest signs to reverse completely, which is why prevention through SPF50+ daily is so important. Vitamin C, particularly L-ascorbic acid, can help fade hyperpigmentation by inhibiting the enzyme tyrosinase responsible for melanin production."