In a spectacular display of 'do as I say and not as I do', I picked all my gel polish off and knackered my nails this week. And not the first time.

In my defence, they'd grown out beyond acceptable levels, and I didn't have another nail appointment booked. Like Sienna Miller, I've been having a bare-nail summer and had only broken it for a mid-September holiday, so unless I was going to visit a salon just for removal (ha), those rigid, lifted gel shells had to come off one way or another.

Also, to be probably a bit too honest, I'm just one of life's pickers. I struggle to resist the short-term satisfaction despite the long-term regret. Plus, I have such an effective nail-strengthening treatment on reserve that it somewhat enables my 'pick now, fix it later' mentality.

After my gel-picking transgression, I did what I always do after I've grown my nails a bit longer under gels, then realise I truly cannot bear having long nails. I clipped them right down, filed them right across and gave them a lick of La Base Camélia. The transformation, I think you'll agree, is pretty impressive, given these photos were taken hours apart.

Of course, like all nail treatments, the real idea with this isn't just an instant, cosmetic improvement - although it certainly delivers on that front - it's that you use it on an ongoing basis to nurse your nails to better health.

But as with all the best beauty treatments, the short and long-term plays here run in tandem. My nails look so nice with this on, I'm pretty happy to wear them bare, which makes me less likely to book gels, and so La Base Camelia can happily sit there doing its strengthening, conditioning thing for weeks or months on end.

Another selling point: the tint in this is so sheer it's 100% forgiving of a bad paint job. I don't even put the big light on to apply it, and the rosy wash still comes out looking neat. Like the sort of groomed, elegant nails that belong to people who book in for professional gel removal, not pick them off in a mildly frenzied state on a train. Sounds good? Great! Let's chat next Sunday.

We’re big fans of a bowl of pasta here at woman&home, but even our favourite midweek meals can start to feel a little repetitive. So we’ve been busy in the Test Kitchen cooking up three recipes that take familiar pasta dishes and give them a seriously delicious twist. “We wanted to create recipes that feel familiar enough for a weeknight, but with something a little unexpected about them,” says Food Director Jen Bedloe.

First up is Assassin’s spaghetti, and the name certainly caught our attention. Hailing from Puglia, spaghetti all’assassina is said to have been created in 1967 by chef Enzo Francavilla. Legend has it that his hungry diners jokingly called him an ‘assassin’ after tasting the fiery, improvised dish. Inspired by the viral Italian dish, we have cooked the spaghetti directly in a rich tomato sauce, letting it sizzle and caramelise in the pan, similar to a risotto. “It’s the charred edges that really make this one,” says Food Writer Nicola Roberts. “You get this lovely contrast between the glossy, rich tomato sauce and those crisp, caramelised pieces of spaghetti.”

Lasagne soup is our answer to those days when you’re craving all the comforting flavours of lasagne but can’t face the layering. It’s essentially your favourite beef and tomato filling transformed into a warming bowl, with pieces of fresh lasagne sheet cooked right in the sauce. A dollop of creamy burrata, fresh basil and lemon zest takes it from simple supper to something extra special.

Our bolognese shells are for anyone who loves a slow-cooked ragu but doesn’t love the time or washing up that usually comes with it. We’ve used frozen soffritto to cut down on prep, then cooked the pasta straight in the rich, meaty sauce. It takes a little time to bubble away, but there’s just one pot to wash at the end. “The beef and pork make this bolognese wonderfully rich, while the milk gives the sauce a silky finish,” says Food Assistant Johanna Mentel.

Assassin's spaghetti with cheesy breadcrumbs

• Serves 4
• Prep 10 mins
• Cook 20 mins
• Per serving: 611 cals, 20g fat, 5g sat fat, 85g carbs

Ingredients

• 4tbsp extra virgin olive oil, plus extra to drizzle
• 75g fresh breadcrumbs
• 50g parmesan
• 100g good quality tomato puree
• 4 garlic cloves, crushed
• 1tsp chilli flakes, or more to taste
• 1 small bunch basil, leaves picked
• 400g spaghetti
• You will need: A deep frying pan, equal or wider than the spaghetti length

Method

1. Heat the frying pan over a high heat with half of the oil. Fry the breadcrumbs for 4-5 mins until golden, then grate over the parmesan. Keep stirring for 1-2 mins, breaking it up until you have a crisp even crumb. Transfer to a plate to cool, then wipe the pan.
2. Put the tomato puree into a warmed heatproof jug, pour over 1 litre boiling water and 1 tsp fine salt.
3. Put the pan back over the heat and add the remaining oil, garlic, chilli, and half of the basil leaves. Sizzle for 1 min then lay the spaghetti in the pan and pour 1 ladleful of the hot tomato mixture over the spaghetti. Leave to bubble and sizzle until it starts to deeply caramelise, then lift and turn the spaghetti over in sections and caramelise the other side.
4. Gradually add the remaining tomato mixture, agitating and turning the spaghetti as it cooks, allowing it to caramelise before adding more. After about 12 mins the pasta will have absorbed most of the liquid leaving it coated in a glossy sauce.
5. Give the pasta a good stir to spread the flavour packed charred pieces evenly throughout, then divide between plates. Sprinkle over the parmesan breadcrumbs and remaining basil leaves. Drizzle over a little more oil, if liked.

Lasagne soup

• Serves 4
• Prep 5 mins
• Cook 35 mins
• Per serving: 568 cals, 26g fat, 11g sat fat, 48g carbs

Ingredients

• 1tbsp olive oil, plus extra for drizzling
• 1 onion, diced
• 350g 12% fat beef mince
• 1 garlic clove, thinly sliced
• 70g tomato puree
• 400g tin cherry tomatoes
• 2tsp dried oregano
• 350ml chicken stock
• 300g fresh egg lasagne sheets, cut into irregular shapes
• 150g ball burrata, torn into pieces
• Zest ½ lemon
• Small bunch basil, leaves picked

Method

1. Heat the oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add the onion with a pinch of salt and sweat until translucent. Add the mince, breaking it up as it cooks until browned.
2. Stir the garlic into the mince and cook for 2 mins. Add the tomato puree and dried oregano and cook for 2 mins.
3. Add the tinned tomatoes, along with half a tin of water. Bring to the boil and simmer for 20 mins, stirring occasionally.
4. Add the stock and bring back to the boil, then add the lasagne pieces. Reduce the heat and simmer for 3-4 mins, until the pasta is cooked. Spoon into bowls and top with some burrata, basil leaves, lemon zest and a drizzle of olive oil.

Bolognese shells

• Serves 6
• Prep 5 mins
• Cook 1 hr 20 mins
• Per serving: 630 cals, 21g fat, 7g sat fat, 69g carbs

Ingredients

• 2tbsp olive oil
• 250g frozen soffritto
• 1 large garlic clove, crushed
• 500g 12% fat beef mince
• 250g pork mince
• 70g tomato puree
• Pinch grated nutmeg
• 2 bay leaves
• 1 rosemary sprig
• 200ml whole milk
• 1 x 28g stock pot (we used Knorr White Wine Stock Pot)
• 350g tomato passata
• 500g dried conchiglie pasta
• 500ml chicken stock
• Small bunch curly parsley, finely chopped to serve
• Grated parmesan, to serve

Method

1. Heat half the oil in a lidded, heavy based pot. Add the soffritto mix and a pinch of salt, cook for 10 mins on medium heat to soften, adding the garlic for the final min. Remove from the pot and set aside.
2. Add the remaining oil to the pot. Turn the heat to high and fry the beef and pork mince, breaking it up with a wooden spoon, until well browned. Lower the heat, add the tomato puree and stir for 2-3 mins until the colour turns from bright to dark red.
3. Return the soffritto to the pan with the nutmeg, bay leaves, rosemary sprig, milk, stock pot, passata and 500ml just-boiled water. Bring to the boil, then turn the heat to low, put the lid on, slightly ajar, and cook for 40 mins.
4. Remove the herbs, then stir in the pasta and an additional 350ml of just-boiled water. Cover and simmer gently for a further 20 mins, until the pasta is cooked. Stir occasionally so it doesn’t catch, and if the sauce looks dry or the pasta is not submerged, add 100-200ml water.
5. Serve with a sprinkling of parmesan and curly parsley.

Pots and pans to try

9 top tips for pasta cooking

1. Salt the water generously – Pasta absorbs water as it cooks, so seasoning the cooking water is one of the easiest ways to build flavour from the start.
2. Save some pasta water – That cloudy, starchy water is brilliant for loosening sauces and helping them cling to the pasta. Add a splash before draining, rather than rinsing the pasta.
3. Cook it just shy of al dente – Pasta continues cooking slightly when it’s tossed with a hot sauce, so draining it a minute or two early can give you the perfect texture.
4. Finish pasta in the sauce – Rather than spooning sauce over cooked pasta, toss the two together in the pan for the final minute or two. The pasta absorbs more flavour and the sauce coats it properly.
5. Use the right shape for your sauce – Long, thin pasta works well with lighter sauces, while ridged or tubular shapes are ideal for chunky, meaty sauces. Shells are particularly good at catching sauce.
6. Don’t overcrowd the pan – Use a large enough saucepan so the pasta has plenty of room to move around. This helps it cook evenly and reduces sticking.
7. Try a little lemon zest – A small amount can lift rich, creamy or tomato-based sauces without making the dish taste obviously lemony.
8. Grate cheese over the pasta while it’s hot – Parmesan or pecorino melts more easily and combines with the sauce for a smoother finish.
9. Don’t rinse your pasta – Unless you’re making a cold pasta salad, rinsing washes away the starch that helps sauce cling to the pasta.

You don't need a cottage in the Cotswolds to bring a little countryside charm into your home. In fact, some of the loveliest ways to make a space feel more connected to nature are wonderfully simple: a vase of garden flowers, a linen cushion, a woven basket or the warm glow of a table lamp.

Countryside styling, also known as Cottagecore, embraces all the cosiness that the season needs. It's all about soft greens, gentle blues, woods, and wickers with botanical prints and cosy textures that make your home instantly feel more welcoming.

And nobody styles it better than renowned designer, Sophie Allport. We asked her for her tips on bringing the countryside into your home. She has six simple tricks up her sleeve for getting a cosier look and feel in every room. And if you need a place to start, her new rug collection has been the talk of the woman&home team.

1. Bring the outdoors in with flowers and foliage

Sophie's first tip is also our favourite way to fall back in love with your home, especially if you're on a budget. "I've always believed that bringing the outdoors in is one of the easiest ways to make a home feel warm and welcoming," says Sophie Allport. She recommends starting with something simple, such as a few flowers, freshly cut branches, or even some greenery. You can bring the hedgerow home in a tablescape or dot decorations around the home. "It's such an affordable way to bring colour, texture, and seasonality indoors," she says. And if you can't get access to green space, there are plenty of artificial flowers that have the same effect.

2. Choose natural materials

Whether you're looking at the layers in your lounge or your autumnal bedding, Sophie recommends paying attention to texture. "I'm always drawn to natural materials, such as linen, cotton, wood, and wicker," says Sophie. She recommends choosing soft colours, such as earthy greens, gentle blues, and warm neutrals, layered as woven baskets, cosy throws, and wooden finishes. Sophie explains that natural materials bring an instant sense of warmth and texture when they're layered together, to curate "a space that feels relaxed and lived in."

3. Create cosiness and consistency

Getting cosy is about looking for your simple comforts, but also keeping consistent. Sophie always relies on a soft throw, her favourite mug for a nice cup of tea, and some soft candlelight (we love these autumnal candles for the scent of the season). It's a formula that works for her, but she cautions against overdoing your soft furnishings.

When you're layering cushions, throws and other soft furnishings, more isn't necessarily more. “I like to keep the colour palette fairly consistent and then layer different textures within those tones," explains Sophie. "Linen, knitted fabrics, soft cottons and wool work beautifully together.”

4. Give your hallway some country charm

The entrance hall sets the tone for the rest of your home, which is why it's important to see it as a place for warmth and style as well as a practical space where hallway storage is important.

A few considered details can make the entrance feel welcome before you've even taken your coat off. “I think it's the little touches that make people feel instantly at home," says Sophie, "I love welcoming guests with a beautifully dressed hallway or entrance, soft candlelight and a touch of seasonal foliage.”

5. Lighting makes a big difference

If you only have an hour and a small budget, you don't need to redecorate. Instead, look at the lighting. “I'd start by introducing soft lighting and a few layers of texture," says Sophie, "Simply switching on lamps instead of overhead lights, lighting a candle and adding a cosy throw to a chair or sofa can completely change the mood of a room.”

It's a particularly easy trick to try as the evenings get darker, and one that can make even a modern room feel instantly warmer. I also like to look at LED candles, also known as flameless candles, because these create wonderful ambiance without any fire risk.

Sophie Allport is the perfect person to prove that the beauty of countryside style is that it doesn't require a country address. Her collection of botanical designs and natural colours are an easy way to create a home that feels warm, relaxed and connected to the natural world.

And you don't need to overhaul your interiors to get there. Start with a vase of flowers, a soft throw or a warmer lamp, then layer in the textures and colours you love. And, if you get stuck, just have a browse on Sophie Allport's website. It's where I spend far too much of my free time...

It’s true that frizz doesn’t discriminate when it comes to hair type, although some of us are more susceptible than others. The trouble begins when moisture in the air penetrates the hair shaft, causing strands to swell and lose their smooth finish. And while humidity is often the driving force behind frizz, dryness and damage can make matters worse.

And while we typically associate high humidity with the summer months, autumn isn't without its challenges. Damp, drizzly days bring plenty of moisture, while blustery winds, woolly hats and the drying effects of central heating only add to the problem. The result? A perfect recipe for frizzy hair.

Thankfully, a few simple changes to your haircare routine can make all the difference. Ahead, celebrity hairstylist Sam McKnight MBE shares his three golden rules for reducing frizz. “These easy changes can improve manageability and ensure you aren't fighting your hair in the autumn/winter months,” he says.

Tip 1: Give your hair a moisture boost

While the aim is to keep excess moisture in the air from penetrating the hair shaft, maintaining moisture within the hair itself is just as important. According to McKnight, keeping hair well-conditioned is paramount if you want frizz-free strands.

“Conditioning the hair is crucial – it nourishes, adds shine, detangles and can be the key to softer, easier-to-manage hair,” he explains. His top tip? “Always squeeze out excess water before applying your best conditioner – if your hair’s dripping wet, the product won’t absorb properly.”

For an extra hit of hydration, McKnight also recommends incorporating a leave-in conditioner or repairing mist into your routine. His Stronger Love Bond Repair Spray, for instance, contains Keraguard, which he says helps defend against heat, humidity and environmental stressors that can contribute to frizz and damage.

Tip 2: Rethink your post-wash routine

How you handle your hair straight after washing can make all the difference to how smooth it looks once dry. And if you're guilty of vigorously rubbing your hair with a towel, McKnight suggests taking a gentler approach. “When styling, to prevent frizz and keep the cuticle smooth, gently squeeze/pat hair dry with a towel – no rubbing – and use a wide-tooth comb to detangle,” he advises.

Before reaching for the hairdryer, it's also worth considering your styling products. “When blow-drying always use heat protection,” says McKnight, who recommends choosing a product that addresses your particular hair concerns. “If you want a smooth blow-dry, opt for one with de-frizzing and de-fluffing capabilities.”

Tip 3: Perfect your blow-drying technique

“When blow-drying, try not to use the highest heat if you can,” he advises, explaining that the ideal temperature will depend on your hair type and desired style. “Thicker, coarser hair types might need a higher heat for control,” he says, whereas those with finer hair can generally stick to a medium heat setting, provided they're not trying to change their natural texture, such as going from curly to straight.

Temperature aside, position matters too. “Try not to hold the hairdryer right on the hair, to minimise excessive heat on each section. A few inches away makes a big difference,” says McKnight, who also recommends directing the airflow down the length of the hair to encourage a smoother finish.

And for those who frequently experience frizz, a concentrator nozzle can be a worthwhile addition. “For anyone prone to frizz, or for thicker hair, a nozzle on your hairdryer will help smooth and flatten,” he explains, although it's worth bearing in mind that this can work against you if you're hoping to add volume.

Staying active is the key to longevity. Resistance training slows natural muscle loss and bone density loss. Single-leg exercises improve coordination to prevent falls and maintain independence as you age. But when you’re juggling training with a busy life, fitting in exercise can be more daunting than the workout itself.

An 11-year study of over 8,000 individuals, published in 2018, found that exercising just two to three times a week was linked to a nearly 30% reduction in overall mortality. That probably feels doable, but if your boss drops an unplanned meeting into your diary or your teenager needs help with last-minute homework, your well-laid gym plans can go up in smoke.

British ultra runner Elsey Davis knows this scenario all too well. Mother to a one-year-old son, Elsey is also a GP and accomplished marathon runner. She has raced cross-country for Team GB and last year made headlines with a new record for running a 400-mile lap of her home county, Cornwall, in six days. In her spare time, she helps care for her mum, who lives with Alzheimers. How does she make it all fit?

I recently caught up with her in Chamonix to get her best tips on squeezing her workouts in and staying on top of it all.

Get your steps in at home

Living close to the South West Coast Path, Elsey has easy access to one of the world’s most beautiful running trails, but sometimes the five minutes it takes to drive there feels too precious to spare. On those days, she says owning a treadmill at home is a “game changer” that lets her do short workouts during moments of downtime.

The advent of space-saving walking pads makes these handy pieces of gym equipment more affordable than ever. They don’t take up an entire room, and you can sneak in a session on your lunch break without losing time driving to the gym.

Anything is better than nothing

Long daily workouts might not be possible, but don’t let that hold you back. Bite-sized sessions still reap rewards, says Elsey, whose motto of “anything is better than nothing” keeps her from growing complacent when she’s time-poor.

For her, that can be splitting her workout into two sessions, with a short buggy run earlier in the day and a second short run when her wife gets home from work, to keep her mileage up without going out for hours.

Similarly, if you find you only have one or two days a week to work out, don’t despair. Known as the “weekend warrior” effect, research from Harvard Health suggests that concentrated exercise sessions may be just as effective as more frequent workouts at protecting against disease, as long as you meet the weekly target of 150 minutes.

Our ideas for exercise snacking can provide inspiration to keep moving whether your time or motivation is low.

Prioritise strength over distance

We all have different workout goals, and while Davis’ training can take her out on the trail for hours or days at a time, it’s actually strength workouts that she calls her “non-negotiable.”

“I’ll never miss that. If I miss my strength training, I also miss my running, because I would just get injured,” says Davis.

Davis does three strength sessions a week, even when she's travelling, focusing on key movements like single-leg balancing exercises with weights, overhead pulls, single-arm dumbbell rows, elbow planks and push-ups for upper-body strength.

Rochelle Humes has built an impressive business portfolio beyond her television career. In 2020, she launched My Little Coco, a range of haircare and bath products for children that reportedly generated £1 million in sales in its first year. Three years later, she joined forces with friend and Pilates instructor Bryony Basse to co-found Cloudcha, a premium matcha brand.

Her latest venture brings her back to beauty, this time with Eulah, a new face and body collection named after her grandmother, whose name she also shares as her middle name. “Eulah has been such a personal project for me. I wanted to create a skincare collection that feels uncomplicated, considered and genuinely enjoyable to use every day,” says Humes.

As we know, the beauty industry is hardly short of skincare brands, celebrity-founded or otherwise, so what makes Eulah worth a place on our bathroom shelves? For starters, there's the price.

The 12-piece collection, which includes everything from cleansers and moisturisers to body care, costs between £8 and £12, making it refreshingly accessible. All products are vegan, cruelty-free and dermatologically tested.

Eulah skincare review: which products are worth trying?

With several products already sold out on Boots, getting hold of the full collection proved tricky. I did, however, manage to get four: Carve Butter, Face Blanket, Cryo Under Eye Refresh Gel and Reset Roller.

Unfortunately, the latter was a non-starter. Despite several attempts, I couldn't get the cream to dispense through the roller applicator, an issue that appears to have cropped up in a couple of customer reviews on Boots, too.

As for the remaining three, here's how they fared...

1. Carve Butter Facial Flow Balm

Of the products I tried, Carve Butter was the clear standout. Described as a multi-purpose facial massage balm, it has a rich, blue-tinted texture that softens on contact with the skin, transforming into a silky, almost oil-like consistency.

Designed to be used alongside a Gua Sha tool, it provides just the right amount of slip for the tool to glide comfortably across the face without dragging or pulling at the skin. I found it made the whole process feel more indulgent, turning what can sometimes feel like another step in a skincare routine into an enjoyable ritual.

The formula contains spirulina extract, rosehip and vitamin E, and left my skin feeling soft and supple. There's also a beautiful scent, courtesy of chamomile, lavender and geranium, which adds to the spa-like experience.

2. Face Blanket

If Carve Butter is the indulgent treat of the collection, Face Blanket is its more practical counterpart. An everyday moisturiser, it combines niacinamide, shea butter, vitamin E and cica in a creamy formula that’s designed to soothe and support the skin barrier.

The texture is richer than I initially expected, although a little goes a long way. It spreads easily, absorbs comfortably and leaves skin feeling soft and nourished without the greasy residue that can sometimes accompany thick creams. I also appreciate that it's fragrance-free, making it a good option for anyone following a skincare routine for sensitive skin.

That said, while there's nothing I particularly dislike about Face Blanket, there's nothing especially groundbreaking about it either. The market is already well served with affordable, fragrance-free moisturisers that deliver similar benefits. It's a perfectly pleasant cream, and one I'd happily use again, but not necessarily a product I'd rush to replace an existing favourite with.

Cryo Under Eye Refresh Gel

There's something rather satisfying about a cooling eye treatment first thing in the morning, and Eulah's Cryo Under Eye Refresh Gel has become a welcome addition to my routine.

The gel is light and watery, dispensing through three small metal roller balls that glide across the under-eye area. It's the applicator that makes this product a joy to use. The immediate cooling sensation feels incredibly refreshing, especially on mornings when you're looking a little tired, and I can imagine it being a godsend for anyone prone to puffiness.

The gel absorbs quickly without leaving behind a sticky film, making it easy to use before makeup. While I wouldn't expect it to work miracles on dark circles or fine lines, as a quick, cooling pick-me-up, it certainly delivers.

The need-to-knows on the brand

Humes has been closely involved in the development process for Eluah, working alongside experts to create Korean-inspired formulas that fit easily into everyday routines. “We've spent so much time developing every product with our skincare experts, thinking about how they work individually but also how they can fit naturally into real life,” she explains.

There's a hydrating serum mist designed to be spritzed on whenever skin needs a refresh, alongside a lightweight cream with a built-in roller applicator that turns a quick moisturising session into something closer to a facial massage. The Cryo Under Eye Refresh Gel dispenses a gel through three cooling metal roller balls, while Body Boost features a five-ball applicator designed to massage the skin as you moisturise.

Visually, Eulah makes a strong first impression. Dressed in soft butter yellow with grey typography, the collection has a minimalist, clean aesthetic, with more than a passing resemblance to Hailey Bieber's Rhode. The product names are equally enticing – Carve Butter, Yogurt Balm, Lip Blanket and Cloud Cleanse all sound rather inviting before you've so much as glanced at the ingredients list.

Speaking of which, the formulations favour hydration and skin barrier support over powerful exfoliating acids and other intensive actives. Across the range, you'll find gentle skincare ingredients including soothing cica, moisture-replenishing squalane and antioxidant vitamin E.

Just a few weeks back, I found myself sitting in a fancy hotel in London's iconic Covent Garden with the opportunity to interview Audrey Hepburn's makeup artist – that's not a sentence you say every day, is it?

With an impressive star-studded clientele list and decades of experience in the world of beauty, as you can imagine, I had dozens of questions ready to go in my notebook. From her recommendation for the best foundation for mature skin to the best mascaras that will give lashes a fuller appearance, I wanted to ask it all.

Of course, we're talking about none other than Laura Geller, who is also the founder of her own brand, Laura Geller Beauty, meaning she's well-versed in giving makeup advice. So, naturally, I had to ask her the burning question that was at the forefront of my mind – if I could only spend big bucks on one item in my makeup bag, what should it be? And her answer might surprise you...

Having done makeup on the likes of Audrey Hepburn, Liza Minnelli and many talented Broadway actors, Laura Geller is undeniably an expert in her field, so I was all ears when it came to her top tips, tricks and recommendations.

As for the former, the makeup artist revealed primer as the one product that is worth splurging on: "Not everybody is taught, from a makeup artist's standpoint, how important [primer] is. It's not hype, it's arsenal. You might think, 'I don't see it; how do I know it's doing something? It makes your makeup lock in longer. And frankly, I think you don't need anything else."

Responding to my follow-up question of whether we should all be adding a primer into our routines, Geller said: "100%. I think a lot of people still think under makeup primer is an extra step because they're already doing moisturiser and serums and oils. Do that [skincare] at night and just use one thing."

As for which primer the makeup artist recommends, naturally she opted for the Laura Geller Beauty Spackle Skin Perfecting Primer – which was inspired by her time working on theater and film makeup. "When I worked on beautiful visionary women, there was a tongue-in-cheek expression they'd say: "I need more than makeup. I hope you have some spackle." Geller recalls.

"Spackle in the States is equivalent to your polyfiller; it's what you put on the walls to smooth the cracks and holes," adds the makeup artist. The apt name makes perfect sense for the featherweight formula inside, which works to minimise pores and fine lines for a natural blurred look.

However, there are many quality primer options on the market, from high-end luxury formulas to amazing drugstore buys. So, if I'm taking advice from Geller herself, then best believe I'm running to my nearest beauty store to get myself a primer.

Waking up at 3 am is common for millions of women. So much so, it happens almost regardless of age or sleep setup. Stress is the main reason, but don't worry, no one is going to tell you to 'just be less stressed before bed' to improve your sleep. We all know it's not that easy.

Dr Amir Khan is an NHS GP and woman&home's resident doctor. He's shared plenty of sleep tips with us over the years. Recently, he spoke about this particular problem and said there's a "biological reason" for early wake-ups.

"Around 2 to 4 am, your body is in a very particular phase of sleep. Cortisol, your natural stress hormone, starts to rise in preparation for waking up. It's completely normal, but if you're already stressed, anxious, or running on empty, that small hormonal shift can be enough to tip you into wakefulness," he said.

"At the same time, your brain is more vulnerable. During the night, especially in the early hours, blood sugar levels can dip slightly. If they drop too low, which is more likely if you've had alcohol, eaten very late, or are under chronic stress, your body releases adrenaline to compensate," he said.

"That surge can wake you up suddenly with a racing heart or a sense of alertness," he explained.

At 3 am, there are also fewer distractions. "It's just you and your thoughts, and your brain's threat system becomes louder. The amygdala, part of the brain that processes fear, is more reactive when we're sleep-deprived, so worries that feel manageable at 3 pm can feel catastrophic at 3 am."

Hormones also play a role, the doctor says, especially during perimenopause when they fluctuate, and changes in oestrogen levels affect temperature regulation, cortisol levels, and sleep.

"That's why so many women report early morning awakenings and poor sleep [during menopause]," he added.

When you've woken up at 3 am a few times, you'll probably worry about it happening again and disrupting your rest. That's when it becomes a vicious cycle, the doctor explained. "The more you worry about waking up, the more likely you are to wake up."

Dr Khan says it's a very normal problem. "We all cycle through lighter sleep every 90 minutes. The problem isn't waking up. It's the anxiety about being awake," he said.

How to stop waking up at 3am

• Relax: "The problem isn't waking up. It's the anxiety about being awake. The more you worry about waking up, the more likely you are to wake up," says the doctor.
• Gentle breathing: Once you're awake, don't panic and start clock-watching. Start some gentle breathing exercises to lower your cortisol levels and gently lull yourself back to sleep.
• Avoid looking at your phone: If you normally look at your phone before bed, it might be tempting to scroll until you feel tired again. Blue light from your phone may stop you from falling asleep again, as it inhibits the production of melatonin, the hormone we need for sleep.

Research and experts suggest that HRT and some alternatives to HRT can be helpful ways to manage difficult menopause symptoms, like night sweats, that could be playing havoc with your sleep.

It's important to know that your body isn't "broken" if you wake up every night and struggle to sleep, the doctor says. "It just means your biology is doing what biology does, and we just need to help it along a little bit."

Thailand’s capital has a lot to offer it’s estimated 30 million annual tourists - incredible food, historic temples, and some of the best shopping you’ll find anywhere, from sprawling markets to chic designer boutiques.

One thing less associated with this city, however, is peace and quiet. The typical Thailand tourist mindset is: burn through some energy in Bangkok, then hop over to an island to recharge. That’s certainly what I did when I first visited almost 20 years ago, but it turns out I was missing a trick. If you know where to go, serenity is absolutely an option without any additional airfare, and I found just that at the Capella Bangkok.

This sleek and intimate hotel has built a reputation for its world-class spa, Auriga Wellness, which has won Thailand's Best Hotel Spa at The World Spa Awards for the last four years and counting - and you can imagine how stiff the competition is in that category.

Of course, the beauty editor in me sees spa breaks as the ultimate way to unwind, but as it turns out, Capella’s ability to draw any big-city jitters out of you begins the second you set foot in the door.

What’s the hotel like?

This sleek spa hotel was built in 2020 and sits within a small cluster of luxury options studding this end of the Chao Phraya River. But unlike its towering neighbour, The Four Seasons, Capella likes to wear its luxury lightly, with a discreet, low-rise facade and 101 rooms total.

Every option, from the most ‘basic’ (obviously, not basic at all) Riverfront King, right up to full-blown family villas, is river-facing with, at the very least, a generously sized balcony. This means everyone gets to enjoy far-reaching views right up and down the famous waterway, and a sense of wide open space that's tricky to come by in this bustling megapolis.

My partner and I arrived at the Capella feeling a little tired after four days of fabulous but full-on wedding celebrations south of the city. Happily, for a pair of weary (ok, fine hungover) travellers, check-in happens not by standing around at a desk, but reclining in your own little corner of the hotel's Living Room area, with a glass of restorative fizz, if you fancy.

Decor here definitely falls into the ‘quiet luxury’ category; glossy, but not blingy. Think ebony wood floors, oatmeal-toned furnishings, and large-scale understated artwork. Lighting is warm and friendly, and seating is chic and squishy.

The bedrooms follow suit, all neutral tones and natural materials - jazzed up by local flowers and edible treats that bring a sense of place. Forget your standard hotel shortbread; give me som sai nam phueng (local 'honey orange') and khanom tan (toddy palm cake) any day.

Our Riverfront Premier King felt almost outrageously spacious for a non-suite option, with a little dressing area stuffed with things to make life seamless while you're staying - a shoe shine kit, complimentary soft drinks in the minibar and a roomy leather bag to take your bits and bobs to the pool.

The nice touches continued as I explored the room. I felt my shoulders drop three inches the second I saw the enormous bathtub with a note advising me to dial for a bubble bath (heaven forbid guests should have to run their own) and huge blinds that obediently unfurl across the floor-to-ceiling windows as you leave, to shut out the blazing Bangkok rays as you explore.

Experiences and facilities

Staying at the Capella feels a bit like being in the home of a very stylish and well-off friend - if your friend happened to employ a team of wonderful people called Culturalists. Think: a personal concierge assigned directly to you, but a WhatsApp away to help you navigate the city, plan excursions, and tell you which street food stall has the best crab omelette.

I stuck with fairly prosaic queries, namely: when does the complimentary guest shuttle boat set off up the river (every 30 minutes) and how early do I have to get up to join the sun salutation yoga session (7 am - but well worth it for a good old stretch in the gardens while the city’s waterway wakes up in front of your eyes).

If you prefer to do your own thing, fitness-wise, there's also a gorgeous outdoor pool for some pre-breakfast laps and a very nicely kitted-out gym.

The baked-in activities don't stop there; the Capella offers daily cooking workshops and family-friendly local arts and crafts. My partner joined traditional Thai mask painting and reported that, despite having at least 30+ years on the other attendees, his finished creation sat at the back of the pile for finesse.

We had more success making traditional Thai Khanom Thom dumplings together the next day, enjoying the soothingly undemanding cheffery of rolling out sweet rice flour dumplings and covering them in sweet shredded coconut.

Come 5 pm, the absolute standout activity is Cin Cin hour, a daily gathering in the ground floor Living Room where guests can enjoy a complimentary local cocktail or fizz and what was rather undersellingly described as snacks (edible works of art).

It’s a lovely, sociable anchor point as day turns to night, but also an example of how, yes, the Capella is a top-end hotel and priced accordingly, but there is no understating how thoughtfully that luxury is given back to you, and how totally taken care of you feel at every point of your day.

How does the spa measure up?

It would be reductive to say Auriga Wellness is the main reason to stay at Capella - but this multi-award-winning spa is absolutely a draw. Put it this way: Forbes Travel Guide does not award five-star spa distinctions to just anyone.

As a spa expert (read: spoilt beauty editor) I can be pretty hard-to-please (read: jaded) when it comes to the offerings in hotels, but this was truly next level. Sleek marble decor, low lighting and a clearly very judicious booking system give a feeling of total privacy from the second I entered reception and began sipping lemongrass tea.

The thermal bathing area, which I had all to myself during my visit, has a variety of hot, cold, bubbly and steamy bits and bobs, including a rainforest shower with realistic yet strangely calming tropical bird noises.

Next, I was summoned to my treatment, via the changing room stuffed with Aesop products and - I think this says it all - a class of disposable underwear I didn’t think possible to achieve.

I tried the hotel’s signature New Moon massage, 90 minutes of much-needed deep muscle work incorporating a gua sha on my back and legs and some gentle stretching out. This wasn’t a ‘falling asleep’ treatment so much as an ‘emerge energised and raring to go’ one, which is a good thing because I had a dinner reservation not to be missed.

What food and drink is on offer?

Getting stuck into Bangkok’s thrilling food scene is the hands-down highlight of any visit - or it is for me anyway - and you’d be missing a trick by playing it safe. But say, hypothetically speaking, you were someone who wanted to eat in your hotel morning, noon and night, you could very (very) happily do so at Capella.

Walking into breakfast, my boyfriend got the same look in his eye as my three-year-old son does when I accidentally let him see a wall of pick n mix - the charcuterie! The cheese! The cute little pots of healthier things we ignored!

Not to mention, the most intricate patisserie table I’ve seen outside Paris, and several à la carte menus to cater for Eastern and Western sensibilities (I went for a little basket of dim sum one morning because, why not?)

For a special Italian-influenced lunch or dinner, the tip-top restarant here is the two Michelin-starred Côte by Mauro Colagreco. Or, do as we did and visit Phra Nakhon for Southern Thai specialities on the terrace.

Among the flavour bombs being knocked out by head chef Kannika Jitsangworn, memorable highlights included curry crab with vermicelli noodles, crispy pork and a reassuringly fiery som ta salad.

It's always a good sign when you can tell your fellow diners are, not just hotel guests, but city residents enjoying a special meal - and the spectacle of the river at night, with sophisticated dinner cruises and noisy party boats chugging along in tandem, made it feel like dinner and show.

After a nightcap, we were pointed towards the hotel's tiny, jewel-toned cocktail bar, Stella. Dripping with Art Deco furnishings, just the right side of OTT with pleasingly old-school live piano performance, the gear-change from the Capella’s minimal and tranquil aesthetic felt thrilling - like stepping into a jewellery box.

There’s a bar snack menu to keep you going, and the expert staff can guide you through the cocktail list, which makes use of local spirits and teas. Although you'd be remiss not to try the smoky, fragrant, unlike-anything-I’ve-tasted-before Siam 5.0, with Nikka whisky, fermented Thai honey, jasmine and cognac.

Hotel bars can do a decent trade on being simply the most convenient option, but much like Phra Nakhon restaurant, Stella has an identity of its own, and feels like somewhere you would visit regardless of guest status. Although, luckily for us, we could enjoy world-class mixology in a memorable environment a mere three-and-a-half-minute roll away from bed. Is there anything more relaxing than that?

Before you book

How to book: Visit Capellahotels.com for reservations and offers, including 3 nights for the price of 2.

Prices: Low season rates start from £713, including breakfast; high season from £900, including breakfast. 

Where: 300/2 Charoenkrung Road, Yannawa, Sathon, Bangkok 10120, Thailand.

Best for: Luxury travellers, couples and celebrations.

Don’t miss: Block a few hours out of your busy city itinerary to do nothing more than lie by the hotel's small but perfectly formed pool. You'll be rewarded with fresh fruit, iced water and the sort of relaxation you thought you'd have to visit an island to achieve.

When to go: November to February is generally seen as the best time to visit, as it's out with the rainy season and avoids the searing heat of summer; however, 'shoulder' months such as March and October can be a good time to get better flight and hotel deals and avoid crowds - albeit with less predictable weather.

Insider Tips: Time a guest shuttle boat trip to ICONSIAM centre with one of the vast megamall's nightly light shows at 7, 8 or 9pm for a dazzling - and free - spectacle.

If you're not ready to say goodbye to summer, or want a luxurious relaxing getaway, there's a clever way to get more for your money; swap popular hotspots for more affordable destinations that offer a surprisingly similar experience.

From stunning countryside retreats to beautiful beaches and bucket-list scenery, these holidays prove you don’t always need to spend big to travel well. Below are six destinations that deliver sunshine, scenery and all the luxury you’re looking for – without the eye-watering price tag.

Best for sleek hotels

Dreaming of Dubai? You’ll love Turkey.

We’ve all seen images of influencers basking beside rooftop pools in the UAE or aboard Dubai mega-yachts. Their job is to lure in the top 1% and it’s worked.

Hotel suites are prohibitively expensive, while cocktails can cost up to £31,000 (admittedly, this particular tequila tipple included a crystal Baccarat glass, one of only two in existence).

Meanwhile, Turkey’s Turquoise Coast - stretching from Bodrum eastwards to Belek - enjoys the same winter warmth and the same bling hotels, but at half the price.

With infinitely more real estate than tiny Dubai, and a mission to lure flash families (not just Gen Z), Turkey has curated an impressive coastline of expansive beach resorts among tropical gardens, gorgeous undulating golf courses, over-water pontoon dining and chic outdoor shopping malls that stay open until late.

Take Regnum Crown, for example, a brand-new five-star, for which J-Lo performed at the opening party, and guests since have included Jason Statham and Stacey Solomon. Guy Ritchie even shot a movie there, with stars Henry Cavill and Hugh Grant staying on-site.

It’s an ultra-all-inclusive resort, which means every extra is thrown in, from your private butler, on-tap champagne, adults-only rooftop infinity pool (the only one in Turkey), entry to water park Aqualantis, hammam spa, plus tennis, padel courts and floodlit football pitches.

If you’ve an entourage to think of, Bayou Villas are luxurious one-to-four-bed hip houses, which work on the same ultra-all-inclusive model, but come with the privacy of exclusive use.

A two-bedroom villa has its own sauna, gym, two pools and games room, while everything on the room service menu is gratis, from Turkish menemen breakfast eggs, to party-sized sushi platters.

BOOK IT: Seven nights at Regnum Crown, from £3,914pp, all-inclusive, including flights; britishairways.com. Seven nights at Bayou Villas, from £2,772pp, all-inclusive, including flights; easyjet.com.

Best for UK chic

Dreaming of the Cotswolds? You’ll love the New Forest

Thanks to the Beckhams and Soho Farmhouse, the Cotswolds are now as glitzy as the British countryside gets - with a price tag to match. Instead, spend your precious days off in the New Forest in Hampshire, a national park with room to roam, trimmed by a stunning coast of low-key beach huts and cute cafes.

Elegant country house Chewton Glen is right by the coast and has a fantastic spa, multiple dining outlets and a cookery school. Accommodation comes in the form of elegant classic-style rooms or modern family-friendly treehouses.

It’s the perfect base for exploring the New Forest, whether you get stuck into crabbing off Lymington Pier or enjoying countryside walks. The glorious New Forest National Park spans 220 square miles and includes beautiful ancient woodland. You're bound to see its famous wild ponies - though be sure to give them plenty of space. A 2023 Public Spaces Protection Order prohibits the touching or feeding of any New Forest pony, horse mule or donkey, and there's a fine for any breaches. Stick to the 140 miles of footpaths and waymarked tracks and savour nature without disturbing it.

BOOK IT: Doubles at Chewton Glen from £230

Best for exclusivity

Dreaming of a private island? You’ll love a Caribbean cruise

For those of us without Beyoncé’s budget to spend on our own island (hers is rumoured to be a cay in the Bahamas), or still awaiting an invitation to Leonardo DiCaprio’s (an exclusive islet off Belize), there is another option… a cruise.

This is down to a little-known perk of cruising: the private island. Many cruise lines buy a paradise speck in the Caribbean, adding a unique port to their ever-more exotic itineraries, while simultaneously giving guests a taste of VIP life. These islands are completely closed off to the public and only cruise passengers can visit.

It started when NCL (Norwegian Cruise Line) bought Great Stirrup Cay in the Bahamas, followed by Royal Caribbean landing CocoCay, and Disney Cruise Line opening Castaway Cay for lucky passengers.

Some wow-factor islands feature water parks, while others are much more nature-focused, such as Harvest Caye, part-owned by the Belizean government.

Our favourite is Ocean Cay, open only to MSC cruise passengers, and now a hugely successful marine reserve. In the Bahamas, the island has been turned from a disused sand-extraction site into a marine biology project, establishing more than 75,000 plants, relocating coral to safe areas, and protecting waters so effectively that loggerhead turtles have returned to lay eggs.

There’s plenty of bling along with the biology. You can eat local lobster at the clapboard restaurants or go for sunset margaritas at Ocean Cay beach bar. Then, as night falls, MSC turns the island’s timber lighthouse into a spectacle, with thousands of LED lights in formation alongside Bahamian dancers.

BOOK IT: Seven nights full board on MSC Seascape, stopping in Ocean Cay, plus islands Roatan (Honduras) and Cozumel (Mexico), and Galveston in Texas, starts from £332pp, excluding flights; msccruises.co.uk

Best for wellbeing

Now the It Crowd is all grown up, Ibiza has gone from Europe’s priciest party island to its priciest wellness escape.

Another Spanish island with a relaxed vibe and a focus on health is Lanzarote. You’ve also a better chance of catching winter sun in the Canary Islands, and self-catering accommodation - from yurts to beach villas - is affordable.

Finca de Arrieta is an eco village of glamping and stone cottages around a solar-heated pool. There’s yoga, Pilates and qigong, as well as the chance to walk with donkeys or book a massage. It also offers villas to rent around the island - perfect for bigger groups.

BOOK IT: TUI flies direct to Lanzarote from 11 UK airports; tui.co.uk. Finca Panorama villa sleeps 10, from £259 per night, while eco yurts at the main Finca de Arrieta site start at £99 per night.

Best for tropical vibes

Dreaming of the Maldives? You’ll love Sri Lanka

What if we knew of a place with the same Indian Ocean waters, ocean-view pavilions and infinity pools, within minutes of UNESCO heritage sites, at a far lower bill than you’ll pay in the exclusive Maldives?

We do, and it’s Sri Lanka’s untouched east coast. Here, turtles nibble on coral just offshore, and the food is ultra fresh, and often cooked on the beach.

The place to stay is Sun Siyam Pasikudah, which is the first hotel outside the archipelago by family-owned Maldivian group Sun Siyam.

That’s why the resort is so similar to the Maldives, with over-water swings, private plunge-pool rooms and a floating bar (with a glass floor, no less, plus traditional wooden boat transfer). Best of all, rooms start from under £100 a night.

Drive a little north, and you can snorkel at Pigeon Island marine reserve, where benign black-tip sharks swim alongside green sea turtles. Inland, you can explore the wonder that is the Ancient City of Polonnaruwa, whose temples, stupas and statues are well worth a day’s visit. Also nearby is Minneriya National Park, a wildlife sanctuary that is home to Asian elephants, langur monkeys and more.

BOOK IT: Seven nights at Sun Siyam Pasikudah from £1,849pp, B&B, including private transfers and flights; trailfinders.com

Best for celeb spotting

Dreaming of the Amalfi Coast? You’ll love Sicily

The craggy Amalfi coastline looks so ravishing in every classic film and fashion campaign that people now visit in droves, clogging up its cobbled streets, filling hotels and raising prices.

So we suggest Sicily if you want a taste of retro Italian glamour, along with waterfront accommodation. The island’s appeal has been growing since The White Lotus season 2, but following Dua Lipa and Callum Turner’s wedding celebration in capital Palermo, Sicily is the new Italian hot spot.

It’s affordable too, with three different airports, all served by low-cost airlines, and a range of hotels because it’s so popular with Italians on their own vacanza.

Mix rural escapism with a couple of days in the city for the best flavour of Sicily. Verdura resort is on the green south coast, near Blue Zone Caltabellotta (officially recognised thanks to the locals’ longevity).

Low-rise cottage rooms and whitewashed cubic outbuildings are the only development in this vast expanse of cactus green and never-ending blue sky; Verdura even has its own farm from where most of its food is sourced. Of eight restaurants, Amare is a highlight, serving spaghetti alle vongole on the beach.

After a few days of relaxation, drive to Palermo, where the 19th-century palazzo Villa Igiea has been transformed into a boutique hotel with sea and city views. We say the best

place to enjoy Palermo is from Igiea’s wraparound terrace (with Campari in hand), but there are three ancient markets that still flourish, of which La Vucciria stays open after dark. Salute!

BOOK IT: Doubles at Verdura from £374 and at Villa Igiea from £439; roccofortehotels.com

With one on almost every high street, Boots is a frequent destination for many – especially for those wanting to restock their beauty bags.

In this day and age beauty products can cost you a pretty penny, but quality beauty buys don't always have to break the bank; in fact, many of our team's favourite products are under £10.

So, naturally, we've gone one step further and scoured the Boots website for stellar formulas that will set you back £5 or less. We're talking about one of the best face moisturisers that has earned a spot in skincare arsenals for decades now, a restoring drugstore shampoo for damaged strands, and one of the best mascaras for lengthening short lashes – plus much more...

12 beauty buys under £5 to pick up during your next Boots trip

Whether you're seeking an intense conditioner to revive dry tresses or a brightening serum that smooths texture and strengthens the skin barrier, we've found an assortment of great products from some of the most well-known names in beauty – such as L'Oréal, The Ordinary and Garnier.

Menopausal skin can be very unpredictable. As hormone levels fluctuate and decline during perimenopause and menopause, you might find yourself dealing with dryness and itching one week, and breakouts or increased sensitivity the next.

These changes are incredibly common. In a Newson Health survey of 5,744 perimenopausal and menopausal women, 64% reported experiencing dry skin, 56% itching and 30% spots or acne, while 22% experienced formication (the uncomfortable sensation of something crawling on or beneath the skin).

There are changes happening beneath the surface, too, with research suggesting that as much as 30% of skin collagen can be lost during the first five years after menopause.

All of which means the skincare routine that served you well in your 20s and 30s may suddenly stop delivering the same results. But knowing how to adapt it isn't always straightforward. We asked clinical facialist Kate Kerr to share 6 things she wants every woman to know about menopausal skin, from how to tackle hormonal breakouts to when facial redness could be rosacea rather than a hot flush.

Kate Kerr's menopausal skincare essentials

1. Menopausal acne isn't teenage acne

Knowing how to treat menopausal acne can be tricky, particularly when your skin may be feeling drier or more sensitive than it once did. “The mistake I see is women assuming they must either go back to the harsh, drying routine they used as teenagers or, because their skin now feels drier, avoid stronger active ingredients altogether,” says Kerr. “Menopausal breakouts often appear deeper in the skin and around the jawline and lower face.

“But that doesn't mean we need to wrap menopausal skin in cotton wool. Retinoids, exfoliating acids (like AHA vs BHA) and other medical-grade actives are often exactly what the skin needs. They simply need to be selected and introduced correctly for the individual skin.”

2. A hot flush and rosacea aren't the same thing

“A menopausal hot flush usually feels like a sudden wave of heat that spreads across the face, neck and chest, is often accompanied by sweating and settles within a few minutes,” explains Kerr. “A rosacea flush is more concentrated across the cheeks, nose, chin and central face, and can leave lingering redness, visible vessels or rosacea spots.”

Kerr regularly sees women who have assumed their redness is simply part of menopause, meaning rosacea can go unrecognised. “Notice whether the redness disappears completely once the flush has passed. If it remains, becomes more frequent or is accompanied by sensitivity, bumps or visible capillaries, it is worth having the skin properly assessed.”

3. HRT can change your skin, too

“Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) can have positive effects on the skin and some women find that their skin feels less dry,” says Kerr. “However, certain types of HRT can increase oil production or trigger breakouts, particularly when testosterone is introduced.”

That doesn't mean you should stop or alter prescribed medication yourself – speak to your prescriber if you've noticed changes. “From a skincare perspective, the important thing is to treat the skin you have now rather than continuing with a routine designed for how it behaved six months ago.”

4. Adapt your skincare routine, don't abandon it

“Perimenopause can start in your late 30s or early 40s and last for up to ten years, so it's worth adapting your routine early rather than waiting for your periods to stop,” says Kerr. Her mantra? “Adapt it, don't abandon it.”

While your skincare routine in your 50s may look quite different to the one you followed a decade earlier, Kerr says the answer isn't necessarily to strip everything back. “The instinct is often to switch to gentle, soothing products, but that tends to leave the skin under-stimulated rather than healthier.”

Instead, she recommends thinking about your routine in two halves. “The morning is about protection and prevention: cleanse, then apply a strong antioxidant, a functional hydrator and a broad-spectrum SPF every day. The evening is about correction and stimulation, which is where exfoliating acids and retinol do their work.”

5. Pigmentation can appear out of nowhere

One change women may not associate with menopause is pigmentation. “Oestrogen helps regulate the melanocytes, the cells that produce pigment, so as it falls, they can become erratic, leading to sun spots and irregular discolouration, even in women who've never had a pigment concern before,” explains Kerr.

“Thinner skin is also more sensitive to the sun, and years of past sun damage can start to show. Daily SPF and antioxidants matter more now, not less, alongside ingredients such as niacinamide, azelaic acid and vitamin C.”

6. Menopausal skin changes aren't identical across all skin tones

Menopause won't necessarily affect every skin tone in the same way. “Black skin is generally oilier, so the hormonal shift can bring more oil, breakouts and inflammation, and those breakouts increase the risk of post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, which skin of colour is already more prone to,” says Kerr.

“Rosacea can also be missed, because redness isn't always the obvious sign. Instead, look for larger-looking pores, more oil and increased sensitivity across the cheeks. Slower cell turnover can make darker skin tones look dull, and erratic melanocyte activity can make tone more uneven. It's why every routine should be tailored to the individual skin, its tone and its history.”

I'm a beauty advent calendar expert; in fact, I've seen every single one on the market this year, meaning I'm well-versed in knowing when one will be quick to sell out.

If you'd spoken to me a few months back, you would've heard me predicting there would be a fragrance trend within the best beauty advent calendars in 2026. Although I hate to say I told you so, that prediction actually did come true.

After the popularity of the annual Harrods fragrance advent calendar, which sold out almost instantly this year, it seems other retailers have followed suit by launching their very own perfume advent calendars. Both the John Lewis fragrance advent calendar and Lookfantastic options flew off the shelves, so if that intel is anything to go by, we're expecting Selfridges' first-ever 12-Day Fragrance Advent Calendar to do the same.

What's inside the Selfridges 12-day Fragrance Advent Calendar?

It might not be December yet, but you can already have a glimpse at the contents inside Selfridges' debut fragrance advent calendar, which makes home to some of the best perfumes for women and the most long-lasting perfumes on the market.

• Fragrance Du Bois – Patchouli Gourmand EDP 30ml
• Ormonde Jayne – Suede Silhouette EDP 88ml
• Thameen – Rivière Extrait 50ml
• Ex Nihilo – Lust in Paradise Extrait 50ml
• Le Labo – Thé Matcha 29 EDP 15ml
• Bibbi – The Last Mango EDP 30ml
• Mind Games – Queening EDP 15ml
• New Notes – Cherry di Latte EDP 15ml
• Initio Parfums Privés – Oud for Greatness, Musk Therapy & Lift Me Up Trio 3 x 10ml
• Penhaligon's – The Tragedy of Lord George & Halfeti EDP Duo 2 x 10ml
• Liquides Imaginaires – Blanche Bête + Liquides EDP Duo 2 x 7.5ml

When does the Selfridges 12-day Fragrance Advent Calendar go on sale?

The Selfridges 12-day Fragrance Advent Calendar officially launched online and in-store on 8th October, meaning it's ready and waiting to be shopped now. But if you've got your eye on it, be sure to act fast, as we can't imagine it'll be sticking around for very long.

How to shop the Selfridges 12-day Fragrance Advent Calendar

For those wanting to shop the Selfridges 12-day Fragrance Advent Calendar, you can find it online via the Selfridges website. Standard delivery within 5 days will set you back £6.95, while nominated day delivery (on orders placed by 10pm) will cost you £9.95. Alternatively, you can also nab the calendar by popping in-store, although we can't be certain how long it'll be in stock.

When you have sensitive, rosacea-prone skin, trying a new skincare product can feel like a gamble. Something that promises to hydrate or smooth can just as easily leave your complexion feeling hot, tight or irritated.

So, we pay close attention when a new product comes along that promises to calm inflammation. Dr Althea 345 Relief Cream is a nutrient-rich formula created to take the sting out of severe redness and improve the rough, uneven texture that those with sensitive skin know all too well. Making waves in the world of Korean skincare as an effective 'reset' for reactive skin, it's also fragrance-free – which is an important consideration if your skin doesn't take kindly to heavily scented skincare.

It's also currently reduced to £7.65 on Amazon for Prime Day, making it a timely one to revisit if it's been on your skincare radar.

But does it actually live up to the hype?

We asked Rachael Samuelson, a member of the Woman&Home Tester Network, to use Dr Althea 345 Relief Cream as part of her daily skincare routine for two weeks. Rachael has sun-damaged, rosacea-prone skin, so she was particularly interested in seeing whether the formula could provide some much-needed comfort without triggering further irritation.

Dr Althea 345 Relief Cream: at a glance

• Best for: Sensitive, dry or reactive skin 
• Texture: Lightweight gel-cream 
• Fragrance: Fragrance-free 
• Key ingredients: Panthenol, niacinamide, ceramides and centella asiatica 

What is Dr Althea 345 Relief Cream?

Dr Althea 345 Relief Cream is a lightweight moisturiser aimed at skin that needs hydration and barrier support. Its formula combines humectants and skin-supporting ingredients with soothing botanicals, without adding fragrance.

The texture is one of the first things you'll notice. Despite being called a cream, it's much lighter than a traditional rich moisturiser, with a gel-like consistency that spreads easily across the skin.

That makes it an interesting option if you find richer creams too much, although drier complexions may prefer to layer it underneath a more nourishing moisturiser.

First impressions

The fear of a rosacea flare-up can make trying new skincare products daunting, but our tester, Rachael, was reassured by this being fragrance-free.

"I never use perfumed products, and this cream felt very soothing immediately."

She was also surprised by the consistency. Rather than the thick, rich cream she had anticipated, she found it lightweight and easy to spread.

"It glides on easily," she says, adding that it sinks into the skin without leaving a greasy finish.

That's worth noting if you have mature or dry skin but don't necessarily want a heavy moisturiser – the formula feels more like a lightweight treatment than a traditional face cream.

What happened after two weeks?

Rachael used the cream morning and evening as part of her usual skincare routine.

The biggest difference wasn't an overnight transformation, but how comfortable and soft her skin felt with regular use.

"I feel like my skin has been given a gentle bit of TLC and I actually look forward to putting it on every day," she says.

After two weeks, she reported that her skin felt more nourished and noticeably softer, while she also felt there had been some improvement in the appearance of her rosacea.

"After just two weeks of use, my skin is so much better for it – more nourished, and noticeably softer, plus I can already see a slight improvement in the rosacea."

She also noticed a change in texture, which was particularly important given her combination of rosacea and sun damage.

"Rosacea is not just about redness; it’s also about the texture of the skin, and I feel this has changed dramatically."

It's important to stress that a skincare cream isn't a treatment for rosacea, and individual responses to skincare can vary considerably. But for Rachael, the combination of a lightweight texture and non-perfumed formula made this one she would happily continue using.

"I would definitely buy this in future and recommend it to anyone whose skin needs help, particularly with the redness and dryness that rosacea brings."

What's in Dr Althea 345 Relief Cream?

The formula contains several familiar skincare ingredients that make sense for a sensitive-skin routine.

• Panthenol (vitamin B5) is a humectant that helps attract and retain moisture, while also supporting the skin barrier.
• Niacinamide is a versatile ingredient that can help support the skin barrier and improve the appearance of uneven tone and texture. If your skin is particularly reactive, however, it's always worth introducing new products gradually.
• Ceramides are naturally occurring lipids found in the skin. They're important components of the skin barrier and help reduce moisture loss.
• Centella asiatica (cica) is a botanical ingredient that's particularly popular in K-beauty formulations designed for sensitive or stressed skin.
• The formula also contains resveratrol, an antioxidant ingredient used to help protect skin from environmental stressors.

How to use Dr Althea 345 Relief Cream

The lightweight consistency means there are a few ways you can use it depending on your skin type.

• Apply a small amount to clean skin, then follow with your usual moisturiser if you need more hydration.
• If your skin is oily or combination, you may find it provides enough moisture on its own. If your skin is dry or mature, it can work well as a hydrating layer underneath a richer cream.
• In the morning, finish with a broad-spectrum SPF – particularly important if you're concerned about visible sun damage or have a complexion that's prone to redness.

Is Dr Althea 345 Relief Cream worth buying?

What stood out from our tester's two-week trial wasn't a dramatic overnight change, but a gradual improvement in how her skin felt and looked, alongside a formula she found comfortable enough to use every day.

That makes Dr Althea 345 Relief Cream worth considering if you have sensitive, dry or reactive skin and prefer lightweight textures. It's also an appealing introduction to K-beauty if you're interested in barrier-focused skincare but don't want a complicated 10-step routine.

And if you've already had your eye on it, Prime Day could be a good opportunity to pick it up for less than its usual Amazon price, but be quick - the sale ends at midnight.

As ever with rosacea-prone or particularly reactive skin, patch testing a new product first is sensible, and it's best not to introduce several new actives into your routine at the same time

There are plenty of garden jobs I actually enjoy, including mowing the lawn. That is, however, until it starts getting cold. But, as a very busy mum of three kids who use the garden all year round, it's not a job I can ignore. Until now.

I'm always looking for ways to take jobs off my never-ending to-do list, and have been thinking about a robot lawn mower for a while now. So when the chance to try the Mammotion Yuka Mini 2 came up, I jumped at it.

Now, instead of finding the time and braving the weather to mow the lawn myself, this clever gadget does it for me – and I don't even need to be at home. With the robot mapped to my garden, I simply press start on the Mammotion app and off it goes. It can even be scheduled to cut automatically, meaning I can come home to a freshly mown lawn without having had to lift a finger.

But it's not perfect - there are a couple of things you still need to do yourself. But when it comes to tackling one of my unpleasant cold weather jobs, it's been a game-changer.

How easy is it to use?

The biggest appeal of this robot mower is just how little I have to do - it's so easy to use. To start, I simply downloaded the Mammotion app, then selected a zone, which I then manually drove the robot around my lawn to map the area. Think remote control car - you simply guide it round the outside of your lawn in a loop using simple controls on the app, and that's it. You can opt for the robot to do the mapping itself, however it only really works if you have really clear lawn boundaries.

Once you have mapped a lawn (zone), simply press start and off it goes. You can map up to five zones, which is particularly useful if, like me, your lawn isn't one simple rectangle.

You also have the option to control it remotely, which I have to say is very satisfying. It means if there's a patch missed or needs going over again, you can whizz it back out again just over that area.

It has six cutting options, which you can manually adjust to take the cutting height from 20 mm to 60 mm with a 190 mm cutting width. I have used both the longest and shortest cutting setting and have been really impressed at just how effective this machine is, particularly when tackling really long, thick grass.

The battery says it lasts for up to two hours. My main lawn takes around 35 minutes to cut, and so wouldn't expect to have - and haven't - any issues with the battery. A single charge covers multiple uses - mine has never run out but I tend to plug it in after the third or fourth use.

It's bulky, but surprisingly light, which makes it easier to move if needed, however the the off-road-style back wheels handle uneven ground really well. My lawn is very uneven, with various bumps and holes, none of which cause it much trouble.

The sensors and obstacle avoidance is another big plus, particularly in a family garden where it is surrounded by children and pets. It does a really good job of avoiding things in its path, rather than blindly mowing straight into them, which means I don't have to worry too much about risk of injury. It stops and goes around objects it detects, and if it gets stuck, shuts down within seconds, which is an excellent safety feature.

Scheduling is probably the thing I appreciate the most – I can set it to mow at a particular time, get on with the rest of my day and come home to a freshly cut lawn. That's particularly appealing in colder weather. Rather than waiting for a rare dry weekend and forcing myself outside with a mower, the robot can get on with the job while I'm doing something (hopefully) much more enjoyable.

What you should know before buying

As much as this ingenious gadget has taken the bulk of work out of my basic garden maintenance, it isn't completely hands-off.

It cuts the lawn, but it doesn't collect it. So I'm left with a lot of grass clippings all over the lawn, which isn't ideal, especially if it's particularly long. I do have to go over the lawn with a rake after to stop half the garden coming back in the house on the kids shoes.

That said, not having to empty the mower and take the clippings to the bin or tip is something that brings me more joy than it probably should. Plus, the mower mulches the clippings to make them easier to decompose and return nutrients to the soil, so if you don't have an army of kids potentially running them back in your house, it saves even more time and is really good for lawn health too.

Otherwise I have found it can miss the odd spot, and so have to manually go over a couple of patches. Which is very low lift but worth noting it might not hit every blade of grass perfectly.

And while its bulky design makes it great for navigating uneven lawns, it also limits spaces it can get into and reach. So you may still need a strimmer to tidy up any awkward or tight areas around borders and edges.

Who is it for?

If you have a large lawn that needs constant maintenance, and, like me, don't always have the time (or inclination) to do so, particularly now the temperature has dropped, I can't recommend this robot lawn mower enough.

It's not about the fancy tech, and everything about it just automatically ticking off one of my tasks from a very long to-do list.

There are compromises - you need to get your head around the app and mapping the zones (which is super easy), you may still need to strim edges, it can occasionally miss patches and leaves grass clippings on the lawn. But none of these outweigh the convenience of having the lawn cut regularly without me having to lift a finger.

As a mum of three, having one less job to find time for makes a surprisingly big difference. And when the alternative is putting on a coat on and heading outside in the cold to mow the lawn? I'll happily let the robot do it.

The core is the body's foundation. It keeps us upright and stable, with good posture, and well-balanced. When I work out, I always make sure to do lots of core exercises at home, but all too often I fall into the habit of doing the same ones over and over.

One ab exercise many of us return to is a sit-up and its variations. While sit-ups definitely build abdominal strength, areas like your hip flexors and glutes, which are also important for full-body stability, don't feel the benefit. Yoga instructor at Yoga-Go, Melissa Leach, says one move can “outperform traditional exercises like sit-ups", and that research has shown it can be better than doing 100 sit-ups.

“Boat pose is one of the most efficient core exercises because it doesn’t just isolate the abs. It engages the hip flexors, glutes, pelvic muscles, and back all at once, helping build functional core strength rather than working one single muscle in isolation,” Melissa explains.

How to do boat pose

• Sit on the floor with your knees bent and feet flat on the floor.
• Lean your torso back slightly while keeping your spine long and your chest lifted.
• Engage your core and slowly lift your feet off the floor, bringing your calves parallel to the ground.
• Balance on your sit bones and try to avoid rolling onto your tailbone.
• Once stable, extend your arms in front of you, with your palms facing each other at shoulder height.
• If you feel comfortable, you can slowly extend your legs to create a ‘V’ shape with your body.
• Hold for 20 to 30 seconds, and repeat 2-4 times.

If you’re new to this pose, reduce the strain on your core by keeping your legs bent. Some people also find that lightly holding behind their thighs gives them extra support when trying to balance.

“If you struggle with balance and maintaining a straight spine, you can either sit on a folded blanket or cushion to help tilt the pelvis forward or sit with your back a few inches from the wall for reassurance,” says Melissa. “The most important thing is to get a hold of the technique first, so start slowly, only holding for as long as it's comfortable and slowly increasing the length as your core strength improves.”

I tried the boat pose for 2 weeks

There’s a big difference between doing boat pose once or twice a week in a Pilates home workout or class, and doing it every day. It’s not an easy pose, and it’s one that’s taken me years to feel comfortable doing. I was apprehensive about whether my core could cope, but I knew it would be a challenge I'd enjoy, having mastered the basics.

Boat pose shakes your core and feet, so I decided not to start too hard in the first few days. Yoga teacher Claire Linnell suggested I spend time making sure my posture was correct, with my chest lifted and back straight, then holding the position for three breaths. This was an adjustment from my Pilates class, where we're encouraged to hold a position for as long as we can. But in yoga, it’s not about reps or stamina. It’s about control, breathing and core engagement. This is how I wanted to start for the first week.

On days one to four, I did four sets of boat pose. Three breaths in position for each one. There was a lot of stomach quivering and my hips didn’t really like the position, but I could feel my abdominal muscles working hard. After a day of sitting at my desk, I looked forward to the pose to release tension in my lower back and hips. It also felt very mindful, just focusing on my breath and being still in the V shape. Doing a glute bridge, then a full-body stretch afterwards felt delicious.

From day five to 10, I decided to try doing the pose for 30 seconds in one go. I found that doing it in the evening gave me time to focus on my form, and it was nice to take a moment to move my body before bed. The 30-second hold felt quite brutal, and keeping my legs straight was a challenge, but I could feel my whole core switch on. When I finished, I focused on lowering my legs down slowly, rather than collapsing. This meant I engaged my abdominal muscles right up until the end.

For the final four days, I did low boat pose instead. This move is very similar to the regular boat pose, but it targets your abdominals more. Claire explains that it involves raising your legs just a few inches off the ground and hugging your inner legs towards each other. “Take the hands into prayer, thumbs to the breastbone and curl your upper back and shoulders off the ground,” she says.

This took the pose to another level and felt a lot more challenging. Again, I held it for 30 seconds, but the sigh of relief at the end was almost a cheer.

I was surprised at how much I needed to engage my upper body. Keeping my arms straight, shoulders down and back straight all took a lot of extra focus. My upper and lower abdominals felt tighter, and my hip flexors felt stronger. I had less hip pain when I spent a lot of time sitting down working, and I felt like my posture improved too.

I upped the intensity over the fortnight. Next, I'll add in some wrist and ankle weights or some light dumbbells to see what difference they make. I don’t think I’ll do it every day, but it’s one I’ll make sure I incorporate into my abs workouts.

Benefits of boat pose

Improves hip strength

The reason the boat pose is so effective is that it works so many different muscle groups around our core and lower body. Claire says that while many people will think of this exercise as being good for the core, “it is actually the hip flexors which bear the brunt of this posture”.

She says our hip flexors are a “key part of our locomotive system” and this hip-strengthening exercise can do wonders.

Boosts core strength

It can take a lot of core strength to stay upright in boat pose, especially if you’re going into the V-sit position too. It will give your upper and lower abdominals a great workout.

Melissa says: “Holding the position forces your deep core muscles, the ones that support your spine and pelvis, to switch on and stay engaged throughout. Over time, this can translate into better posture, a stronger lower back, and a core that supports your everyday movement.”

Boosts leg strength

Squeezing your legs together during the pose will switch on your inner-thigh muscles, says Linnell. “These muscles are often overlooked, but they play an important role in stabilising the hips and pelvis and supporting everyday movements such as walking, running and balancing.”

Improves balance and control

Boat pose takes some practice. There’s a lot to think about while you’re doing it. Balancing on your glutes with a straight back and legs out in front of you requires deep core engagement and breath control.

Mastering this move will help you with other yoga and Pilates exercises such as scissors, the Hundred, and others which require a strong core.

Improving and maintaining your balance will help keep you mobile and independent for longer and lower the risk of falling.

It might feel like Christmas is still a while away; but it won't be long until advent calendar season arrives. For makeup, skincare and haircare lovers, December 1st marks the start of the daily delight that is opening the doors of our beauty advent calendars.

Our research into the best on offer this year started in the midst of the summer heatwaves - so we're seriously clued up on the ones that are worth a buy for the 2026 festive season.

Whether you're after a fragrance advent calendar, one packed with Charlotte Tilbury products or something iconic like the Liberty or Selfridges beauty advent calendar, woman&home's beauty team know what's good.

And while treating yourself to any Christmas countdown filled with beauty favourites gives December a touch of magic, we think we've found one of the most luxurious on the market for 2026. Enter the Le 30 Montaigne Dior Beauty Advent Calendar. A 24-day countdown packed with the legendary French designer's best makeup and skincare, as well as Dior fragrance and more.

With a £604 price tag, this is certainly not an advent calendar you would buy on a whim. But if you're after something that offers some beautiful Christmas indulgence dripping with opulence and elegance, this could be the perfect "treat yourself" purchase.

Think of it as a generous gift to yourself - or open it as soon as it arrives and use the products inside for special gifts and stocking fillers this year.

What's inside the Dior Le 30 Montaigne Beauty Advent Calendar 2026?

This year's Dior Le 30 Montaigne Beauty Advent Calendar is certainly an extravagant treat that's ideal if you want to enjoy some real indulgence.

You'll discover 24 surprises within the ornate star-shaped box of drawers, and it's the perfect opportunity to try some of Dior's most well-known beauty excellence. If you want to know exactly what you'll be investing in if you pay the hefty price tag for this calendar, then read on.

Inside the Dior Le 30 Montaigne Beauty Advent Calendar 2026, you'll find:

• J’adore Eau de Parfum (5ml)
• J’adore Intense Parfum (5ml)
• Sauvage Eau de Toilette (10ml)
• Dior Homme Eau de Toilette (10ml)
• Miss Dior Eau de Parfum (5ml)
• Miss Dior Essence de Parfum (5ml)
• Rouge Dior Lipstick (Shade 999 Velvet, 3.5g)
• Dior Addict Lip Maximizer (Shade 001 Pink, 6ml)
• Dior Addict Lip Glow (Shade 001 Pink, 3.2g)
• Dior Addict Lip Glow Oil (Shade 001 Pink, 6ml)
• Rouge Dior Lipstick (Shade 720 Icone Satin, 1.5g)
• Dior Vernis Nail Polish (Shade 999, 10ml)
• Dior Vernis Nail Polish (Shade 513 J’adore, 10ml)
• Diorshow Maximizer 4D Lash Primer (4ml)
• Diorshow Mascara (Shade 090 Black, 4ml)
• Dior Backstage Rosy Glow Stick Blush (Shade 001 Pink, 6g)
• Dior Prestige La Crème (15ml)
• Dior Prestige La Micro-Huile de Rose Activated Serum (10ml)
• Dior Capture Le Sérum (10ml)
• Dior La Mousse OFF/ON Foaming Cleanser (30ml)
• Dior Délice Scented Candle (85g)
• Three festive Dior ornaments

When can I buy the Dior Le 30 Montaigne Beauty Advent Calendar 2026?

The Dior Le 30 Montaigne Beauty Advent Calendar 2026 is available to buy now, having launched on October 1st.

If you want to get your hands on it, it's available to order online via the Dior website exclusively, for £604.

You'll receive three complimentary gifts with your order as well as two mini product samples of your choice - plus a Dior gift box. You can also sign up to the Dior Beauty Privé loyalty programme in order to nab free next-day delivery.

Muddy walks and rainy days are all part of the joy of Autumn, but soggy shoes, dripping coats, and musty hallways are less welcome. If you've noticed your entrance hall filling up with wet footwear and coats (upon coats upon coats), we've got the tidy, stylish answers. xxx

The obvious solution for organising a small hallway is a shoe stacker or coat rack, but in narrow hallways and small homes, adding more furniture can make the problem worse. Instead, a few well-chosen pieces can help keep dampness at bay, give everyday essentials a proper home, and, most importantly, stop autumnal mess from creeping any further into your house.

I've sought out nine space-saving multi-functional heroes for organising your hallway in the winter, all under £25, from clever umbrella stands and boot trays to drying racks and moisture-busting essentials. Each one is practical, easy to live with, and designed to bring order, cleanliness, and calmness to your entrance hall without taking up precious space.

Nine Autumn Hallway Heroes Under £20: for a tidier, cleaner home

Three more hallway heroes that are more than £25

We couldn't resist showing you a few more options that tip over the £25 mark. They're worth the extra spend if you want to make your entrance look more expensive.

We're well and truly coming into cosy season. These practical, affordable hallway heroes are brilliant for dealing with practical mess, with a stylish twist. My next step would be to add something cosy at atmospheric, such as one of our favourite autumnal candles. That way, guests will get a warming waft from the scented candles every time they come in and out of the house.

When you've worked hard in the garden to grow your own veggies and flourishing plants, the last thing you want to see is them being overtaken by invasive pests.

If you've been sorting out the garden recently, you may have come across some strange-looking white flies taking up residence on your plants, especially your veggies. And if you're a beginner vegetable gardener, this discovery might be causing confusion.

These small moth-like pests aren't uncommon in the garden and can cause damage, so it's best to know how to deal with them before a large infestation takes over. To help, we've consulted our team of gardening experts for advice on how to spot and get rid of whiteflies.

What are the tiny white flies appearing in the garden?

While watering your garden plants and checking up on your edible crops, you may have noticed some unusual visitors on your plants' leaves.

"They’re most likely whiteflies, which usually gather on the undersides of leaves. If you brush past a plant and a little cloud of white insects lifts into the air, then that definitely confirms it," explains Dr Russell Sharp, Founder of Eutrema.

"They’re not really flies in the usual sense and are more closely related to aphids and scale insects. Both the adults and their young feed by sucking sap from the plant, so a heavy infestation can leave leaves looking pale," he points out.

"And you may also notice sticky residue on the foliage because whiteflies produce honeydew as they feed, and that can then encourage black mould to grow on the surface," adds Dr Russell.

It's worth mentioning that whiteflies are also a common houseplant pest, so ensure you check your indoor plants for signs too.

How can I get rid of a whitefly infestation in my garden?

Getting rid of small pests like these can be tricky, but similarly to how you can prepare your garden for aphids, there are several effective solutions that won't harm your plants.

"Whiteflies multiply quickly, so the first thing you should do is check the undersides of leaves regularly and remove any that are covered in eggs," says Dr Russell.

"You can use a strong (but controlled) spray of water to knock any flies off the plant, which can work for the sturdier vegetables and ornamentals, then repeat that every few days," he continues.

"Yellow sticky traps can help catch some of the flying adults, especially in a greenhouse, but they won’t deal with the eggs and young already attached to the leaves," admits Dr Russell.

You might've used yellow sticky traps inside your home to get rid of flies, and it is worth mentioning that they're not always the most humane way of dealing with a pest problem.

Does washing-up liquid get rid of whiteflies?

When it comes to garden pest control, there are lots of natural solutions out there, from homemade garlic spray to even using wooden fire ash as a deterrent.

"This is one of those gardening hacks that gets passed around online, but I'd leave the washing-up liquid in the kitchen," says Tessa Cobley, plant pest expert and owner of Ladybird Plantcare.

"Washing-up liquid can affect soft-bodied insects because detergents can disrupt their protective outer layer, so it's easy to see why the idea has become popular. The problem is that household washing-up liquids aren't formulated or tested for use on plants, and the wrong concentration can damage foliage or cause scorch," she adds.

"The important thing is not to assume that something is plant-safe just because it's a popular DIY gardening hack. If you're going to spray something onto your plants, use a product that's designed for the job and follow the instructions carefully," Tessa explains.

In the same way, having essential garden tools helps you do your gardening jobs properly; using the right pest control solution ensures the problem is effectively dealt with.

Why do whiteflies appear in the garden?

If you have discovered a whitefly problem, don't panic; that doesn't mean your gardening skills are sub-par or that you've forgotten to protect your plants properly.

"Whiteflies aren't a sign that you've done something wrong. They're simply insects that have found plants they can feed on," starts Tessa.

"Different species have different host plants, so you may notice them appearing around particular plants rather than throughout the whole garden. Warm conditions can encourage some species, particularly glasshouse whitefly, to reproduce quickly, which is why numbers can suddenly seem to explode," she says.

"A healthy garden will naturally have some pests. The important thing is to keep an eye on what's happening and step in if a population starts to cause a problem. Encouraging natural predators, growing a good variety of plants and checking foliage regularly can all help keep things balanced," Tessa continues.

This is especially important if you take a rewilding approach to your garden, staying away from insecticides and harsh chemicals.

While you're out checking for whiteflies, make sure you're also giving your box hedges a once-over for any signs of webbing. The chances are it's not the spiders that have started destroying your hedges, but the box caterpillar.

You might assume a Hollywood celebrity's skincare arsenal makes home to an assortment of high-end products with hefty price tags, but that's not always the case.

It's not every day that you get to take a peek into an A-lister's beauty routine, but Demi Moore's makeup artist gave us that exact opportunity as she lifted the lid on the best face moisturiser, best hyaluronic acid serum, and Korean face masks she uses to give the actress' skin an enviable glow before hitting the red carpet.

The one thing that ties them all together? Each formula is the innovative creation of one affordable K-beauty brand – and it just so happens to be one of our Beauty Writers' favourite skincare brands too...

As for how we got this insight into Demi Moore's skincare routine, the actress' makeup artist, Rokael Lizama, posted a detailed rundown of her red carpet makeup look on Instagram last November. In the caption, Lizama noted her step-by-step process, including the exact products she used from the popular K-beauty brand, Dr.Althea.

To begin the process, Lizama opted for one of Dr.Althea's most popular and bestselling buys, the 345 Relief Cream, "to prime and prep her skin." Interestingly, the makeup artist then applied the Jelly Seal Dewy Mask over the top of the moisturiser "to lock in extra moisture and hydration."

To further boost Moore's radiant complexion, her makeup artist then revealed her top tip to create a healthy, dewy effect: "I then mixed a few drops of the AquaMarine Deep Serum into her foundation and applied it on her skin [and décolletage] to create a glowing, dewy finish." Finally, Lizama spritzed the brand's 345 Relief Cream Mist over Demi's complexion in order to "rehydrate and return the skin-like finish to her look."

But it's not just Demi Moore who is a fan of this K-beauty brand; in fact, it's a favourite of our very own woman&home Digital Beauty Writer, Sennen Prickett, too. "As someone with sensitive-prone skin, Dr Althea is one of my all-time favourite Korean skincare brands thanks to their ever so gentle yet effective formulas. They are packed full of nourishing ingredients to help hydrate and strengthen the skin barrier, while encouraging the most gorgeous radiant glow."

As for which formulas earn a spot in Sennen's routine, she notes: "Some of my favourite products include the Jelly Seal Dewy Mask, 345 Relief Cream and the Pure Grinding Cleansing Balm," she says.

If you're looking to upgrade your favourite Android-friendly smartwatch before the new year, you've likely heard of the new Google Pixel Watch 5 and Samsung Galaxy Watch 9.

Stuck choosing between the two? You're not alone. These are easily two of the best fitness trackers. You'll find everything you need to log, track, and improve your wellbeing with either, but a few key differences will decide which one is best for you.

I wore both for two weeks, logging at least 6,000 steps daily, multiple workouts, nights of sleep, and more, to weigh up the Google Pixel Watch 5 vs Samsung Galaxy Watch 9.

Google Pixel Watch 5 vs Samsung Galaxy Watch 9

Specifications

A quick overview

I tested these watches at the same time, and I was floored by how similar they were. Released only a few weeks apart, the Google Pixel Watch 5 and Samsung Galaxy Watch 9 focus on being everyday wellness companions. They provide data so you can pre-empt any problems and proactively look after your health, rather than log it and forget it.

Overall, I'd suggest buying the watch that matches your Android phone. If you use a Samsung Galaxy phone, the Watch 9 will be a better fit for smartwatch functions, connectivity, and integration, making sure you get full use of the £399 price tag. The same goes for Google Pixel users and the Google Pixel Watch, available for £369.

That said, if you don't have either of these phones, you have to decide. For me, the Google Pixel Watch 5 edges out the Samsung Galaxy Watch 9, thanks to better GPS, sleep features, and smartwatch functionality. You can also use the Google Health Premium platform for an extra cost, which I have loved since I tried it on the Google Fitbit Air.

Google Pixel Watch 5 vs Samsung Galaxy Watch 9: What are they like to wear?

The choice is between an architectural, square bezel with a round face (Samsung) and a futuristic, round one (Google). Both have an aluminium case and a thick, scratch-resistant glass screen, with a durable silicone band available in various colours. Both come in a larger and smaller size.

While I prefer the look and feel of the Google Pixel Watch 5, this comes down to personal preference. I liked how flush the Pixel Watch sat against my wrist, so it was barely noticeable while I walked and in my gym workouts. The screen has a default always-on mode, which I always turn off to save battery life. These days, you can just lift either device to wake the screen.

The Samsung Galaxy Watch 9 has a soft square-edged bezel housing the round screen. The screen is about the same size as the Google Pixel, so this extra bezel space feels unnecessary. However, it's a uniquely creative design element. The strap also has an air pocket for better breathability and, overall, it's lighter than the previous Samsung Galaxy Watches.

Both watches are comfortable and have bright (3,000 nits) screens that are easy to read at a glance, even on the move.

Winner: Google Pixel Watch 5

Fitness tracking on the Google Pixel Watch 5 vs Samsung Galaxy Watch 9

The Google Pixel Watch 5 and the Samsung Galaxy Watch 9 cover the essentials, like step count, heart rate, estimated calorie burn, and exercise profiles with equal options. At a glance, you can see your daily fitness data and manually start over 100 workouts, with sport-specific data (e.g. distance for running workouts) available on your wrist and clearly summarised in the respective apps. I've found both to be very accurate and reliable.

I've long been after a smartwatch that prioritises strength training as much as it does running, considering that it is one of the best exercises for longevity. Finally, the Google Pixel Watch 5 has it. You can log your individual reps and sets, and monitor your rest times. I'd love to see this feature on the Samsung Galaxy Watch 9 soon.

If you're looking for one of the best running watches, the Google Pixel Watch 5 is also a top pick. It connects to more satellite networks than Samsung (or Apple, for that matter) and matches some of the best Garmin watches for accuracy, especially in dense urban areas. That's according to Google, but I agree after wearing the watch on a recent 10km run through high-rise London.

I was very impressed that both the Google Pixel Watch 5 and Samsung Galaxy Watch 9 have built-in running coaches, too. Normally, you have to invest in one of the best running apps for this. Each has custom plans for various distances.

They also offer insights into your Cardio Load (how well your body is handling the exercise you're doing and whether you're doing too much) and Readiness (whether you've recovered from the exercise you're doing) in an easy-to-read graph.

Winner: Google Pixel Watch 5

Sleep tracking on the Google Pixel Watch 5 vs Samsung Galaxy Watch 9

On the Samsung Galaxy Watch 9 and Google Pixel Watch 5, you'll get basic sleep insights (duration and stages) and more advanced metrics. I monitor my sleep latency, overnight blood oxygen saturation, and skin temperature to spot any changes that might signal my body is under more stress than usual.

For example, if you're getting a cold, your skin temperature will be higher than normal. This feature can warn you that you're under the weather before any symptoms appear.

All the insights are laid out clearly and in detail in the respective apps, making it clear where your sleep could use some work - or where your sleep health is thriving.

One feature I love on the Google Pixel Watch 5 that the Samsung Galaxy Watch 9 doesn't have is the smart wake alarm. This wakes you up in your lightest sleep phase, within 30 minutes of your alarm, which I've found helps avoid grogginess some mornings.

Winner: Both are good options for sleep tracking, but the Google Pixel Watch 5 has more features

Health tracking

The list of similarities between the Google Pixel Watch 5 and Samsung Galaxy Watch 9 doesn't stop at sleep and exercise. Both have a suite of advanced health monitoring features, including ECG, blood oxygen saturation, skin temperature, and blood pressure monitoring. Whether you're keeping an eye on a specific condition or just want to play it safe, both have more advanced health metrics than most fitness trackers.

However, in the blood pressure monitoring feature, I found a difference between the two. The Galaxy Watch 9 requires periodic calibration with a traditional arm cuff alongside the sensor readings, which is a bit of a hassle but may be more reliable. You can, however, only use this feature if you have a Samsung phone.

The Google Pixel Watch 9 tracks blood pressure trends over time using on-wrist sensors and delivers a report every month - no need for a cuff and regardless of your connected phone.

Both watches have a 'vitals' page. Here, you'll see baseline metrics across key areas, including skin temperature, heart rate, blood oxygen, HRV, and respiratory rate. When one moves out of your normal range, you'll get notified - much like on the Oura Ring 5. This can help you spot signs that something's up, like an incoming cold.

Winner: Google Pixel Watch 5, but they are very similar

Smartwatch features on the Google Pixel Watch 5 vs Samsung Galaxy Watch 9

While the Pixel Watch has always had brilliant smartwatch features, with total Google integration so you can email, browse your calendar, or pay for coffee from your watch, the 5 has gone through some major upgrades. I noticed this most when I walked into a train station during testing, and my watch automatically brought up my train ticket on the screen. I could just tap through the gate.

I don't like when brands pack loads of AI functionality into watches, and it doesn't make life any easier. This upgrade to the Google Pixel Watch 5 genuinely feels like an on-wrist personal assistant who knows what I need before I do - and I never have to get my phone out.

I also made more use of the double-tap function on the Pixel Watch 5. This allows you to complete actions (like starting/stopping a timer or workout) with the tap of your forefinger and thumb. It was first released in the Google Pixel Watch 4, but I found it very useful.

The Samsung Galaxy Watch 9 has great smartwatch features, too, including partnerships with third-party apps like Spotify and WhatsApp and built-in payment systems, all so you can leave your phone at home. It also has Gemini integration, so simply by raising your wrist, you can send messages and emails, control other Samsung devices, get directions, check the weather, or start a playlist. However, you have to ask for what you need, whereas Google's Pixel Watch 5 does a very good job of guessing before you have to.

Winner: Google Pixel Watch 5

Google Pixel Watch 5 vs Samsung Galaxy Watch 9: Which one is better?

Overall, I found the Google Pixel Watch 5 has more to offer - from better GPS accuracy and a Smart Wake Alarm to smartwatch capabilities. Add Google Health's Premium insights, and you can turn up the volume on an already very capable and impressive fitness tracker.

That said, the Samsung Galaxy Watch 9 is also an excellent choice. If the competition weren't so great, it would be really impressive. However, many other fitness trackers have had features for years that are new to the Samsung Galaxy Watch 9.

While the Google Pixel Watch 5 is my favourite of the two, the best watch for you will be the same brand as your phone. At just under £400 each, these are premium products, and I'd advise getting the most for your money, which you can only do if you have a phone from the same brand as the watch.

Winner: Google Pixel Watch 5

Still stuck? If price is an issue, weigh up the Fitbit Air vs Google Pixel Watch 5. This screenless fitness tracker is under £100 and has many similar features.

October is one of my favourite months for reading. It's dark and cold outside, cosy and warm inside, and there are lots of brilliant books to snuggle up with - be it a family saga, murder mystery, or a second-chance romance.

This month's best books have something for everyone. We've seen glamorous historical mysteries, cosy autumn romance, and chilling gothic thrillers from some of the most prolific, skilled authors of our time, including Richard Osman, Victoria Hislop, and John Green.

As ever, I've included three unmissable audiobooks, including Earl Spencer's personal narration of Swan Song and the twin book to best-selling Ultra Processed People, Make Me Well, which exposes the wellness industry's darkest secrets. So, if you're looking for something to curl up with this weekend or work through on your morning commute, this is your October reading pile sorted.

Best Books To Read In October

Best audiobooks to listen to in October

Whether you're after a twisty mystery to keep you gripped into the early hours, a sweeping family saga to get lost in, or something cosy and romantic to float through, there's plenty to add to your October reading pile. And, if you're reading on a Kindle, Amazon has just announced a new redesign of the whole Kindle range, as well as some exciting accessories.

As avid fans of The Traitors, the woman&home beauty team is already hooked on the new celebrity series – and we've made it our mission to scout out the exact beauty buys that Claudia Winkleman uses.

If you know Claudia Winkleman, you'll already be well-acquainted with her signature look – whether it's the tanning wipes behind her bronzed glow or the hair styling buys for her instantly recognisable glossy strands. However, there's another key part to her look – her lipstick, which made an appearance on the first two episodes of the BBC's Celebrity Traitors last week.

Luckily for us, the presenter's makeup artist has lifted the lid on the exact long-lasting lipstick shade that Winkleman has not only been wearing on the show but for many years now – and it's a cult classic.

The second series of Celebrity Traitors kicked off last Thursday and, fortunately for us, after each episode, Claudia Winkleman's makeup artist, Lucy Gibson, has posted a rundown of each look to her Instagram stories. So, when we spotted the exact lipstick behind the host's iconic neutral pout, we knew we had to share.

During the celeb-filled room at breakfast, Gibson revealed Winkleman wore MAC's 'Fleshpot' lipstick. Lending itself perfectly to the presenter's signature look, the lippie in question is a pale beige shade with a warm pink-peach undertone. While this exact hue was once discontinued several years back, much to Claudia's delight, the brand officially brought it back in 2024 to celebrate their 40th birthday.

In an Instagram post from January 2025, which celebrated the finale of a previous season, the makeup artist noted how she relies on MAC lipsticks for Winkleman's camera-ready pout. In fact, Gibson quoted "Fleshpot forever" in her caption as a nod to it being one of Claudia's favourite shades.

That said, it's not a new love of Claudia's; the Traitors' host has dubbed this exact lipstick as a must-have on many occasions over the years. In an interview with Get The Gloss back in 2021, Winkleman said: "I love Tippex lips, so always use MAC’s Fleshpot lipstick."

However, at the round table of Friday night's episode, Winkleman opted for a different MAC Macximal Sleek Satin Lipstick in shade 'Myth'. This soft neutral shade is warmer and more peachy-toned than 'Fleshpot', making it slightly more wearable for many.

To celebrate 100 years of woman&home, a Victoria sponge just wasn’t going to cut it. We wanted something extra special, so we called up the exceptionally talented pastry chef, Philip Khoury, to help create something truly spectacular.

Khoury is an award-winning pastry chef, author and chocolatier. Born in Sydney, he moved to London and spent six years as Head Pastry Chef at Harrods. He is the author of A New Way to Bake, which won the Fortnum & Mason Best Debut Cookery Book Award, and his latest book Beyond Baking - Plant based baking for a new era.

Philip is a familiar face on the BBC, having appeared regularly on Saturday Kitchen and as a guest judge on MasterChef UK, MasterChef Australia and Bake Off: The Professionals. In July 2025, he launched his artisan chocolate company, Khoury’s, in East London, focusing on regenerative cacao, minimal ingredients and playful, imaginative flavours and designs.

With his brilliant mix of classic pastry know-how and playful, modern ideas, he was the perfect person to create a birthday cake with the necessary wow factor for our centenary. The result is rich, chocolatey and packed with cherry flavour.

Chocolate cherry fudge cake

• Serves 14-16
• Prep 45 mins, plus at least 3 ½ hrs chilling/setting
• Cook 35 mins, plus cooling
• Per serving: 500cals, 23g fat, 11g sat fat, 64g carbs

Ingredients

• For the sponge:
• 420g light muscovado sugar
• 80g cocoa powder
• 336g plain flour
• 2tsp baking powder
• 2tsp bicarbonate of soda
• 1tsp fine sea salt
• 480ml water
• 2tsp vanilla extract
• 2tsp apple cider vinegar
• 80ml extra virgin olive oil
• For the mousse:
• 250g 65% dark chocolate, chopped
• 450ml oat milk, chilled
• 200g cherries in syrup (drained weight), patted dry
• For the ganache:
• 380ml oat milk, chilled
• 75g light muscovado sugar
• 300g good quality dark chocolate (65-70%)
• You will need: 2 x 20cm loose-bottom round cake tins lined with baking paper, stick blender

Method

1. Heat oven to 160C Fan. In a large bowl, whisk together the sugar, cocoa, flour, baking powder, bicarbonate of soda and salt. Mix the water, vanilla, vinegar and oil in a jug then gently whisk into the dry ingredients until just smooth.
2. Divide the mixture between the tins. Wrap the bottom half of each tin with a double layer of wet paper towel, pressing it to the sides of the tin, followed by a layer of foil - this will help the cake rise evenly.
3. Bake for 35 mins or until a skewer inserted into the centre comes out clean. Cool completely in the tins then turn them out and chill the cakes until needed.
4. For the mousse filling, put the chocolate in a heatproof bowl. Heat 250ml of oat milk in a saucepan until just simmering. Pour it over the chocolate, then use a stick blended to blend until smooth. Add the remaining (cold) milk and blend again, ideally this is done at 35C so if you have a thermometer use it. Pour into a shallow dish, cover directly with cling film and chill for 3-4 hrs.
5. Once set, transfer the mousse mixture to a bowl. Use an electric mixer to whisk to soft peaks (about 10 mins). Cover and chill until ready to assemble.
6. For the ganache, put the chocolate in a heatproof bowl. Heat 190ml of the oat milk and the sugar in a saucepan until just simmering. Pour over the chocolate then use a stick blender to blend until smooth. Add the remaining (cold) milk and blend again until glossy with no oily streaks. Pour into a shallow dish, cover directly with cling film and chill for 1 hr, then continue setting at room temperature for another hr.
7. To assemble, gently fold the drained cherries into the mousse. Use a serrated knife to level the tops of the cakes then slice each sponge in half to make 4 discs. Lay one sponge on a serving plate. Spread with a third of the mousse, then repeat twice, finishing with a sponge. Use a palette knife to spread a thin layer of the ganache over the whole cake then chill until firm.
8. Spread the remaining ganache over the top and sides of the cake. Smooth the top, then run a pallet knife around the sides to create a smooth finish. Chill for 30 mins to set then store at room temperature for at least 2 hrs before serving.

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Q&A with Philip Khoury

1. What makes this chocolate cake special, and why did you feel it was the right recipe to share for Woman & Home’s 100th birthday?
   I wanted to create something that felt familiar and comforting, but was still distinctly celebratory. Chocolate cake is one of those timeless bakes that brings people together, and chocolate has always been very close to my heart. I love the harmony between chocolate and cherries. They're a classic pairing for a reason, with the tartness of the cherries cutting through the richness of the chocolate. The whipped ganache adds a lovely lightness to the cake, making it feel indulgent without being too heavy. For a 100th birthday, it felt right to share a cake that celebrates the joy of baking, sharing and making memories.
   
2. Can you tell us how this recipe came about?
   I wanted to take the idea of a classic chocolate and cherry cake and give it a little more refinement, without losing the things that make it so appealing. I started with a rich chocolate sponge, then built the cake around a whipped ganache, which brings a lighter, mousse-like texture and contrasts beautifully with the sponge. The cherries bring freshness and a little acidity, which balances the richness of the chocolate. I think the best cakes are often the ones that take familiar flavours and textures and bring them together in a way that feels just a little more special.
   
3. If you had to describe this cake in three words, what would they be? Dark, rich, sumptuous.
   
4. Are there any details in this recipe that might seem small but make a big difference to the finished cake?
   One thing I always recommend is using baking strips around the outside of your cake tins. They help the cake bake more evenly, giving you flatter layers and reducing the need to trim away the tops. You can buy silicone versions or make sure you use oven-safe fabric strips designed for baking. Another important detail is how you whip the ganache filling. You want to whip it until it's light and aerated, almost like a mousse, rather than stopping when it's just thickened. That gives the cake a beautiful contrast between the rich sponge and the delicate filling.
   
5. What are the biggest mistakes people make when baking, and how can they avoid them?
   I think one of the biggest mistakes is rushing. Baking is all about precision, and small details can have a big impact on the finished result. Not measuring ingredients accurately, using ingredients at the wrong temperature or not allowing a cake to bake for long enough can all affect the texture. Another common mistake is overmixing cake batter once the flour has been added. You want to mix just enough to bring everything together, otherwise you can develop too much gluten and end up with a tougher sponge. And, of course, resist the temptation to open the oven door too early. Cakes need a stable temperature to rise and set properly, so give them time before checking on them.
   
6. What’s one baking rule you think is worth following, and one that you’re happy to break?
   One rule I always follow is not opening the oven too early. It's tempting to have a peek, but the sudden drop in temperature can cause a cake to sink before it has had a chance to set. One rule I'm happy to break is sifting flour. I find that whisking the dry ingredients together thoroughly is often enough to distribute the raising agents evenly and break up any small, soft lumps. That said, if your flour has hard lumps, I wouldn't use it. It's likely been exposed to moisture, which can affect the quality of your bake. For me, it's about understanding why a technique is recommended and knowing when there's a simpler way to achieve the same result.
   
7. What’s something people would be surprised to learn about working as a pastry chef?
   Probably just how long the hours can be! There's a romantic idea of being surrounded by beautiful pastries and chocolate all day, but the reality involves a lot of preparation, cleaning, repetition and very early starts. And no, I don't eat cake all day! Although I did go through a phase where I had at least one dessert every single day. When you work in pastry, you're constantly tasting, testing and developing recipes, so dessert becomes a big part of your everyday life.
   
8. What’s one dessert you could never get bored of?
   The Snow Egg I made during my first job at Quay restaurant in Sydney. It's a dessert that has always stayed with me, partly because of the experience of making it and partly because of the incredible combination of textures and flavours. It's a beautifully delicate dessert, with meringue, ice cream and a rich custard, and it really captures the creativity and precision of modern pastry. It was one of the desserts that helped shape the way I think about pastry, so it will always have a special place in my heart.
   
9. What’s a baking trend you’d happily see disappear?
   Anything that's overly sweet or laden with icing purely for decoration. I love a beautiful cake, but I think the decoration should always serve a purpose, whether that's adding flavour, texture or a little bit of theatre. There's a tendency to prioritise how a cake looks over how it tastes, but for me, flavour should always come first. A cake can be stunning without being covered in layers of buttercream or elaborate decorations.
   
10. What’s a baking trend you think deserves more attention
    Baking with the seasons. I think we sometimes overlook just how much seasonal ingredients can elevate a bake. Using fruit when it's at its best means you get naturally better flavour, and it can also inspire you to experiment with ingredients and combinations you might not ordinarily consider. Rhubarb in spring, berries in summer, figs and stone fruit in late summer, and apples and pears in autumn all bring something different to the table. Seasonal baking encourages you to be more creative and lets the ingredients do the talking.

When I got my first beauty job, I did what any twentysomething let loose with an unlimited supply of skincare would do. Go nuts.

I stuffed my routine with actives, especially acids, and booked aggressive treatments that my still-collagen-filled skin had no business being subjected to. Time went on, the novelty of freebies wore off (a bit), and I learned that battering your face with skincare acids every day wasn't the route to dermatological health and happiness. Then, just as I calmed down, my face flared up - rosacea had entered the chat.

This commonplace, incurable condition spans everything from a bit of flushing to debilitating burning and bumps. Dermatologists say you can minimise flare-ups by using gentle skincare and avoiding a load of other fun stuff like spicy food, spin classes and wine. But what's a beauty ed with a lingering love for quick-fix exfoliants to do?

Look Eastward, where skincare technology is leagues ahead, with a baked-in respect for skin barrier preservation. This cult Japanese 'J-Beauty' serum is a perfect example of that approach - and after using it for the last two months, I've seen some impressive changes.

At this product's UK launch back in July, I learned that it's the top-selling prestige serum in Japan - inspiring repeat purchase after repeat purchase in an extremely competitive and discerning market, which was reason enough for me to start using it every day.

I took a makeup-free selfie, then another one two months later - both in natural light and the same spot in my house - and have been impressed by the effect on my skin texture overall, especially across my cheeks and chin, as well as reduced congestion and redness. Ignore the spot above my eyebrow in the after - hormones, eh.

In all honesty, the improvements have been so incremental I hadn't really spotted them until I compared these pictures, but the lovely feel of this product, lack of rosacea aggravation and appeal of adhering to a long-game Japanese beauty mindset were motivation enough to stick with Takami anyway.

I get that it's a tougher sell to say, 'use this and slowly, over time, you'll have nicer skin,' versus 'this thing transformed my face overnight.' But the boring truth is, as with so many things, slow and steady is the way to do it - especially if you have any kind of sensitivity.

At the ripe old age of 40, I can't pretend I've found balance and moderation in every area of my life (can anyone help me learn when to leave the party?), but at least products like this exist to make a thoughtful approach to skincare so easy and satisfying. Sounds good? Great! Let's chat next Sunday,

There are two types of people – those who can’t remember the last time they moisturised their body, and those who can’t remember the last day they didn’t.

Moisturising below the neck is an issue our beauty team is very much divided on. Aftersun aside, beauty writer Annie swerves moisturiser, while beauty editor Jess is fully committed to a year-round bodycare routine of body creams for dry skin, the best body oils and even the odd retinol body moisturiser.

Neither would dream of going without the best face moisturiser, so why does bodycare feel like a different ball game? Bring on the beauty debate…

How often should you moisturise your body? The big beauty debate

Jess Beech, Beauty Editor: Annie and I live parallel lives. We live about a fifteen-minute walk from each other, share a love of puppies and Percy Pigs, and last week bought the same top without realising. One thing we don’t agree on, though, is that body moisturiser is a daily essential rather than a nice-to-have.

Nothing feels like more of a treat at the end of the day than slathering myself in moisturiser and waking up to silky soft limbs. During this year's relentless heatwaves, I found myself showering twice a day as a matter of survival, and I would undoubtedly look like a mid-shed snake if I wasn’t moisturising daily – I don’t know how Annie manages to look so fresh and not at all husk-like.

Annie Milroy, Beauty Writer: Despite sharing the same postcode and love of the Elizabeth Line, Jess and I have long disagreed about how often you should moisturise your body. I refuse to add moisture to any part of my body below the neck unless it’s a special occasion or an emergency. So, it's likely my limbs have only ever experienced body cream about 10 times in their dry lives.

Jess, on the other hand, slathers the stuff on every evening. So who’s right? Me, the driest girl in Essex or Jess, the No. 1 body cream addict of the county? We’ve had to call in the experts to settle this once and for all.

The big body moisturiser debate

JB: Be honest, when was the last time you moisturised your body? You can tell me.

AM: This is embarrassing to say, but I think I can count on one hand the number of times I’ve moisturised my body in my life. I am ashamed, but I just hate feeling greasy!

JB: There’s no judgement here – this is a safe space. But does your skin not feel itchy and flaky? I moisturise pretty much every single day because otherwise my skin cries out for it. I moisturised last night, but my shins already feel like they’re flaking like croissants.

AM: In all honesty, no. I don’t really make a habit of getting my pasty shins out, so a lot of the flakiness might be hidden. Sometimes I catch sight of how dry my skin is in the office, and worry I'll get sacked from the beauty team. But because I am SO very lazy, I just roll with it. I would rather wear tights in July than moisturise my body.

JB: Surely if it's not irritating you, then it must not be a problem, though? Maybe your skin is just not as dry as mine? Also, the idea of wearing tights through July is making me feel unwell.

AM: I think sometimes you can be caught in a cycle of your body expecting a level of moisture? So, your skin craves it more? Rhiannon said this in our lip balm debate - maybe the more you use it, the more you need it.

JB: Your body has become acclimatised to the Saharan conditions.

AM: All my body knows is neglect.

JB: It’s funny, because you love skincare. It could be because I am also a fake tan addict, and maybe that’s making me a body lotion addict too. Do you wear aftersun on holiday? And does sun cream make you feel as greasy and stressed as moisturiser, or do you just don’t mind so much because you are also on a sun lounger with an Aperol?

AM: Yes, but needs must. After sun is an essential for me, so I guess that does count as moisturiser! Look at me go!

JB: She’s just a two-weeks-a-year moisturiser girl. The big question – will you moisturise before your upcoming wedding or are you going high neck and long sleeves?

AM: I might whack a lightweight cream on before the big day, but maybe just on the arms (big dress reveal here, people).

JB: High days and holidays for you, all year round for me.

AM: Surely it should be more of a happy medium? Let’s see what the experts say.

What do the experts think?

So, who's in the right? According to consultant dermatologist Dr Alexis Granite, “bodycare follows the same pattern as facial care. Exfoliate two to three times a week and moisturise once or twice daily.” At this rate, it's clear Annie is a way off the pace with once-in-a-blue-moon application.

However, that doesn’t mean Annie should necessarily be following Jess’ lead of basting herself in enough layers of lotion to rival a Christmas turkey. “The best products to moisturise your body will largely depend on your skin type, and in many cases, the time of year,” advises consultant dermatologist and CeraVe expert Dr Derrick Phillips.

“For normal skin, lighter formulations are often sufficient. These are easy to apply, absorb quickly and provide effective day-to-day hydration without feeling heavy. As skin becomes drier, richer textures are more beneficial, helping to reduce water loss and deliver more intense hydration.

For very dry, rough or itchy skin, more intensive formulations may be needed. In these cases, the best moisturisers for dry skin will contain ingredients such as urea, which can be particularly helpful, as they both hydrate and gently smooths the skin.”

In the name of serious investigative journalism, Annie and Jess both used a skin analysis device to measure the hydration levels on their skin. Interestingly, there wasn’t much of a difference between them, nor between the skin on Annie’s face and her much-neglected legs.

The final verdict: how often should you moisturise your body?

AM: It seems that neither of us is right. Of course, I could benefit from forcing myself to moisturise my limbs once a week (start slow, they say). But ironically, our hydration levels weren’t wildly different, so maybe our skin does acclimatise to its conditions. Neglect for me, and drowning for Jess. It seems that although daily is ideal, it might be more about applying whenever your skin feels it needs it. There are worse things in life than over- or under-hydrating your limbs.

JB: I definitely don’t think my skin could cope without its daily dose of moisture, and I do feel vindicated that Dr Alexis agrees that body moisturiser is an everyday essential.

"With everyone spending more time inside, it's important to find little moments of pleasure and joy in our homes," says Jane Rockett founder of Rockett St George. "I love animal prints, cheeky details, and colour all around a room", she adds, explaining that these details put a smile on your face when you're doing your everyday jobs around the home.

Jane gave this advice on a panel of UK designers, sitting alongside Ali Edwards, Head of Design at MADE, and Holly Marler, Creative Director at Cath Kidston. They were full of advice on how to layer lighting in your home and cosy home essentials, but my favourite detail came from a delightful side track that they took, onto the quirky objects that bring joy into their homes.

From lamps and candles to butter dishes and toasters, here are some of their recommendations for finding ways to spark joy at home.

Nine Home Decorations And Appliances That Spark Joy

You might be surprised to know that these designers aren't the only ones championing adding colour to your home. Jamie Oliver's kitchen is a masterclass in dotting little colours and patterns around your kitchen and if you need inspiration for prints, look no further than the new M&S bolster.

When trying to improve your health with regular exercise, it's important to do something you actually enjoy. There's little point in signing up for a month of Pilates if the thought of core exercises makes you shiver.

Actress, writer, director, and producer Sharon Horgan started running about six years ago. Since then, she has "pushed it up to two or three times a week" and says it's one of the "only things exercise-wise that I actually like", so now she takes her running shoes all over the world, whether for work or play.

"I pack my stinky trainers and my running bra, and I'm off!" she told Talkhouse. "It gives me the greatest pleasure, and it's also so unexpected."

The star ran cross-country at school and enjoyed it, but it still surprised her when she started again and found that she continued to "love it".

Running is "the best way" to get to know a new city - and Sharon counts spots in Norway, Spain, and Rome among her standouts, she told Television Academy. It's also helped her physically and mentally in the last few years.

After dealing with challenging menopause symptoms (including a "frozen f**king shoulder", per The i Paper), Sharon decided to swap GPs and "stop drinking, get fit, [and] sort [her] hormones out", which is when she started running more.

"I will go through phases of not doing it, but I generally feel better when I get out and do it," she said.

The star told Talkhouse her chosen distance is 5km - just enough to reap the benefits, but not so long that her "knees start shouting" or her hips become uncomfortable. If she's running with someone else, she may go a little further.

"But what running really does, even though I'm either listening to music or a podcast, is take me somewhere else mentally," she told the outlet. "It's not always about taking the most interesting routes; sometimes when you have to do something that takes you off on a tangent, it's exciting."

How to start running as a beginner

• Find comfortable kit: Good shoes, a comfortable sports bra, and some workout leggings that don't fall down are all you need to get started.
• Entertain yourself: One of the most common complaints from new runners is that it's "boring". Create a playlist, download an audiobook or new episodes of your favourite podcasts to play through your exercise headphones before you head out the door.
• Go slow: Most people run too fast. The key to running as a beginner is to go very, very slowly. Run comfortably enough to keep up a conversation. Known as zone 2, this builds your aerobic fitness.
• Run with others: Being accountable to head out the door helps, too. If you know you're meeting a friend in 20 minutes, you're less likely to cancel because it's early, raining, or you just don't fancy it.

There are some jewellery brands you buy into just because they're having a moment in the spotlight, and then there are the ones people always stop you to ask about. Alex Monroe falls firmly into the second category for me. For our first Christmas together, the man who would go on to become my husband gifted me a beautiful gold Alex Monroe necklace, and I've been getting compliments on it ever since. I absolutely treasure it, so it's safe to say the brand has a special place in my heart, and I'm certainly not the only fan.

The Princess of Wales has worn several Alex Monroe pieces, including the Paleontology Nugget Necklace. Founded forty years ago in 1986, the brand has a whimsically British feel that really sets it apart from other jewellery brands on the market right now. The designs feel distinctive without being difficult to wear.

The pieces have a wonderfully nostalgic quality, drawing on founder Alex Monroe's childhood spent exploring the Suffolk countryside - think bees and flowers - and amazingly, each design is handmade in England.

Now, as the leaves start falling and autumn arrives, that connection to the countryside feels particularly fitting. The brand's new collection, Scattered Seeds, is a sensory exploration of the changing seasons and nature's ongoing rhythm of rebirth and renewal.

The pieces are honestly quite incredible (the detail on that pinecone necklace!), and prices start from £135. There are both gold and silver options depending on your preference, and I think my favourite has to be the Pink Freshwater Pearl Drop earrings, which I can totally imagine Kate Middleton wearing.

Shop the new collection

Shop bestsellers

A new necklace, ring or pair of earrings can really elevate a simple autumn outfit of jeans and a jumper, so upgrading your jewellery is a simple way to update your wardrobe for the new season. It's so easy to assume a fresh autumn look has to include a new winter coat and boots, but actually jewellery has the power to completely switch things up.

There’s no casual way to say it - I get sent a lot of free perfume. As a senior beauty editor, a big part of my job is testing out new fragrance launches, so every week boxes pile up on my desk with bottles of the best perfume for women. From the newest, most luxurious buys to the more humble (but no less lovely-smelling) affordable options.

It is - obviously - an enormous perk. I get to spritz and sniff to my heart’s content, and I can curate one of those unrealistic beauty tropes - a ‘wardrobe’ of scents. I take a small selection home, usually solar perfume or mood-boosting perfumes to use on those mornings when I wake up in a grump.

Lately, though, I’ve been reaching for the same scent. Day after day, I shun the glitziest, poshest bottles and pick up this understated cult classic.

Ah, Glossier You. The perfume-that’s-not-really-a-perfume. This was really an ‘it’ scent when it launched in 2017, loved for its warm, subtle fragrance and the USP of smelling different on every wearer.

Allow a slightly cynical eyebrow raise from me - all perfumes generally smell different on everyone. With Glossier You, though, I can see why it’s a feature. It’s a really soft, understated smell that your natural scent blends with, rather than fighting against. Hence, ‘You’.

It stands out to me as a favourite because I feel that a lot of new launches smell a bit…perfumey. When the beauty team are testing scents, we have a common phrase for this - ‘it smells like a perfume’. Meaning, it smells like a generic, run-of-the-mill scent. They feel like walking through an airport duty-free. Floral, fragrant, spicy - yes, lovely - but not that distinctive. Dare I say, old-fashioned. I’m also not a fan of the Gen Z boom in gourmand scents - I don’t want to smell like a frappuccino.

There’s a beautiful simplicity to Glossier You. It’s unassuming, easy to wear, and stylish - it’s the white T-shirt of the perfume world. That’s not to say that it doesn’t smell like anything. The notes of pink pepper and iris with warm amber elements do make an impression. It just whispers instead of shouting.

I love smelling scents on other people, but I never want to smell overly perfumed. I definitely had a phase of spraying myself top-to-toe with the strongest floral fragrances I could find, wanting to smell nice. It just takes hugging someone and being overpowered by their aroma to put you off that habit. Skin scents have become a huge trend over the last few years, for those occasions when you want to smell good, but not obviously from a perfume.

I can see Glossier You being my signature scent for years to come. There’s no occasion it’s not suitable for - It’s a gorgeous autumn fragrance but also one of my favourite scents for summer. It’s lovely in the evenings as a cosy, inviting option, and it’s a lovely pick-me-up on gloomy winter mornings.

I always feel like myself when I’m wearing it, and that’s the beauty of it. Like the best understated makeup - it makes me feel like me - but better.

In recent years, beauty boxes have seen a huge surge in popularity; in fact, many of them have been flying off the shelves as soon as they hit the market.

Much like the best beauty advent calendars, these curated edits give you a chance to trial an array of popular products for a fraction of the cost – think everything from the best face moisturisers to the best mascaras.

While we can't predict when the next beauty box will launch, we can put together a one-stop-shop list of the ones currently available to buy – and just in time for payday, too. So, without further ado, these are the 12 unmissable, limited-time-only beauty box deals that we've spotted right now.

The 12 limited-edition beauty boxes to know about right now

From the ever-popular Boots beauty boxes to a dermatologist-approved skincare edit, these limited launches are stashed full of some of the biggest brands in the beauty industry. But don't hang about; these boxes are only sticking around for as long as stocks last. So, if you see one you like, be sure to nab it before it sells out.

It's that time of year again - the London Marathon ballot is soon to be released, putting a spring in the step of thousands of runners and making for a disappointing start to the day for others.

I've run two marathons with one of the best Garmin watches. It's often the first brand I will recommend to friends and family. The Garmin Forerunner is a collection of running watches, complete with all the metrics you'd need to ace your 5km, all the way through to an ultramarathon.

For my first marathon, I wore the Garmin Forerunner 945 (since discontinued), before switching to the Garmin Forerunner 265. I now wear the Garmin Forerunner 170, which was released a few months ago. All are excellent smartwatches. Like many Garmin types, they are packed with useful insights for runners, cyclists, and anyone else who enjoys cardio exercise with live readings and data in the app. But both times, there were features I paid more attention to than others.

1. Training Load

Training Load looks at the balance of base-building aerobic activity and harder anaerobic activity. Runners need a mix of both to improve their distance, speed, and overall performance, so this is a particularly useful metric for them. It is divided into three categories: Shortage (you're not doing enough of one exercise type), Balanced (you're exercising across different intensity levels), and Focus (you're focusing on one area of training).

When I tap into the metric, I can see which one I'm focusing too much or too little on and adjust my plan accordingly. If it's Balanced, then I continue on as normal. It's my preferred way of checking whether the type of training I'm doing is paying off.