I don't want to blow my own trumpet, but if anyone knows a thing or two about beauty advent calendars, it's me.

I've had my eye on the best beauty advent calendars for 2026; in fact, I've been tracking and unboxing them for the last two Christmases, so it's safe to say I'm an expert. From prices and content lists to release dates, I can reel off all the stats.

After the popularity of the Harrods fragrance advent calendar over the past few years, I even predicted that fragrance advent calendars were going to be the biggest trend this festive season. Lo and behold, exactly that has happened. So without further ado, these are the 9 perfume-filled calendars that I think should be on your radar for 2026.

9 fragrance advent calendars worth knowing about in 2026

From Jo Malone's heritage festive countdown collection to Boots' debut 12-day fragrance calendar, count down to Christmas with these scent-stashed advent calendars...

What is the best perfume advent calendar?

Being the trendsetter in the industry, we have to give our flowers to the Harrods fragrance advent calendar for being the best on the market. The calendar in question features 12 hand-picked luxury scents, 7 of which are full-size – including Parfums de Marly's Delina, Ex Nihilo Bromption Immortals and Thameen's Patiala. This selection allows you to trial a handful of different top-shelf perfumes, from fresh florals to rich gourmands and opulent ouds, to find your signature scent.

Do fragrance advent calendars sell out fast?

Fragrance advent calendars are some of the quickest to sell out, and for good reason. Finding your signature scent can require a lot of trial and error and perfumes typically boast pretty hefty price tags, making fragrance advent calendars a popular choice for many.

These calendars give you the opportunity to find 'the one' in a more affordable way, rather than investing in multiple pricey 100ml bottles. So, it's unsurprising that they're quick to fly off the shelves. Take the Harrods and Lookfantastic 2026 fragrance advent calendars, for example, which both sold out almost instantly this year.

Have you ever woken up to discover your hair has taken on some major, unexpected frizz? That’s what happened to me. Over the course of 2026, I've noticed my locks changing. While I’ve always had fairly dry, weak hair that suffers from hair breakage (thanks, heated tools and bleach), I’ve never really experienced frizz. So naturally, I started to question what had changed.

Toreverse my newfound flyaways, I perused my social media feed: what new products, techniques, or trends could help? I found Abbey Yung and her now-viral 11-step method. I got to work drenching my hair in the best hair masks for recovery and styling mists. But just weeks in, I started to notice my hair wasn’t really getting better. In fact, it seemed to be looking worse.

That’s when I discovered what many critics of the Yung method point to: the routine is heavy on protein and bonding formulas, overuse of which can leave hair dry, brittle and even frizzy – the opposite of what you're after. It’s referred to as "protein overload". On a mission to work out what was really going on with my hair, I reached out to trusted trichologists and stylists to investigate.

What are protein treatments?

Before going any further, it’s important to clarify that protein treatments are not the same as bond-building treatments. While some might also be formulated with protein, others rely only on targeted active chemical compounds that work differently.

Bond builders for hair target “disrupted disulphide or ionic interactions within the hair fibre after chemical or thermal processing, rather than simply coating the hair with protein,” explains Holden. It's therefore important to check specific products and what they contain, especially if you’re concerned about protein ‘overload.’

That said, Trichologist Kate Holden explains that overusing bond builders “can make your hair feel coated or stiff,” and that reaching for one bonding product a week is “enough for most hair types.”

Protein overload explained

When used correctly, protein products can be hugely beneficial, particularly for hair that’s been compromised. They have the capacity to penetrate the hair’s cuticle to smooth, strengthen and – perhaps ironically given this subject matter – reduce frizz.

“Hair is made primarily of keratin, a structural protein. Everyday factors such as colouring, bleaching, heat styling and UV exposure can damage the hair cuticle and weaken those protein structures,” explains Caroline Hall, Trichologist and founder of R&R Aesthetics. “Protein-based products temporarily fill small areas of damage along the hair shaft, helping hair feel stronger, smoother and less prone to breakage.”

However, importantly, not all hair types need an abundance of topical protein products. It’s most beneficial for those with dryness, frailty and breakage, hence why some who adopt a protein-rich routine find it just doesn’t work for them.

“There are a lot of protein products on the market, and it’s become a bit of a trend, but actually only fragile hair needs protein,” says Christel Barron-Hough, Founder of STIL Salon. “Often hair lacks moisture, hydration and bond-building support, so while protein products are good, they need to be chosen for the right hair needs as they’re often overused.” For those without sensitised hair, “it can actually have the opposite effect and create a more brittle texture,” she adds.

Holden also notes that those with curly hair may need to be more cautious, too. “Curly hair isn't inherently 'protein-sensitive,’ [but] because it tends to be drier, more porous and more vulnerable to mechanical damage, it's often quicker to feel stiff or less flexible if protein-rich products are overused without enough moisture.”

Even hair that responds well to protein products still only needs a certain amount, because buildup is possible. “While protein overload isn't common, repeatedly using multiple protein-heavy products can leave your hair feeling stiff, dry, rough, or more prone to snapping," says Holden. "There's no set amount that's 'too much', it depends on your hair's condition, porosity and how damaged it is."

What are the signs of protein overload

First, look at your routine. Hall says that protein overload is more likely if you’re “layering multiple protein-rich products several times a week.”

This is one of the biggest reasons I believe I may have been overdoing it. Rather than simply incorporating a weekly or fortnightly protein treatment into my regimen, I realised I’d been reaching for protein and bond-building products at pretty much every step: washing, blow-drying and styling. If a quick analysis of your collection leads you to believe you may be doing too much, chances are you very well might be.

Next, the condition of hair should also come into consideration. I noticed a clear correlation between when I started to invest more and more in constant protein or bond-building formulas, and when my hair started to become frizzier.

Am I saying this means it’s the sole cause of my flyaways? No. But was it contributing to my hair staying frizzy and dry? Quite possibly. “Hair overloaded with protein often feels dry, rough, brittle or unusually stiff," says Hall. "Instead of becoming stronger, it may actually become more prone to snapping because it's lost some of its flexibility."

How to fix it - and have a balanced haircare routine

If you suspect you may have been going too hard on the protein or bond builders, it may be time to simply take a step back for a few weeks. Give your hair a little break and see what happens.

“Pause protein-rich products for a while and switch to moisturising shampoos, conditioners and masks," Holden advises. "In most cases, the hair gradually regains softness and flexibility over the next few washes. Clarifying the hair [with gentle detoxifying shampoos] may also be useful to remove product residue."

Then, reintroduce a protein-based product or simply stick to a bond-building treatment once or twice a month. The easiest way to ensure your hair is reaping the benefits without build-up is to pick one type of product and to use it strictly as directed, rather than every day or every wash.

Struggling to choose just one to invest in? Holden says a leave-in treatment is usually the preferable choice: “Treatments have longer contact time, allowing strengthening ingredients to better work on the hair fibre. Shampoos are rinse-off, so they're less likely to deliver a noticeable strengthening effect.”

Going forward, I will be taking a two-to-three-week break from any protein-heavy products or bond-builders, then slowly reintroducing the K-18 leave-in mask every fortnight, forgoing any similar shampoos, masks or styling products. As with everything, it’s about moderation – and understanding that, sometimes, less is more.

Whether you've got a special event in the diary or you're spending the night eating and drinking, it can be a real challenge to make sure your lippie stands the test of time – with minimal top-ups required, of course.

We've all heard about investing in a long-lasting lipstick that doesn't budge or applying one of the best lip liners to prevent the lipstick from bleeding outside the lines; however, Lisa Kudrow's makeup artist just revealed the unusual way to keep your pout lasting from noon 'til night.

After stepping out at the Emmy Awards adorning a beautiful mauve lipstick, Kudrow's makeup artist lifted the lid on his clever trick to ensure it stayed put for the red carpet and beyond – and now we want to try it for ourselves.

The 78th Primetime Emmy Awards took place on Monday, 14th September 2026, where we saw Lisa Kudrow grace the blue carpet. While we loved her subtle smokey eye, we just couldn't peel our eyes away from her natural-looking rosy-mauve lipstick that remained precisely in place all night.

The visionary behind it all, celebrity makeup artist Brett Freedman, let us in on his pro industry tip for ensuring a lippie goes the extra mile. Freedman notes: "Dot [Laura Geller's] Targeted Fine Line Filler along the lip line to help keep lip color in place throughout a long night."

Acting just as you expect a face primer to do with your best foundation, this trick involves applying the formula to the lip line. This helps promote the longevity of your chosen lipstick, but also aims to prevent fading, flaking and bleeding outside the lines of your lips.

As for the lip product that Lisa wore, the makeup artist opted for Laura Geller's Lasting Love Lip Color – a 2-in-1 lip liner and stain with long-lasting, transfer-proof colour. To be exact, the shade was 'Mauve', a warm dusty pink that mimicked the natural hue of Kudrow's pout.

Shop Lisa's Emmys makeup look

For those wanting to take a glimpse into the rest of Lisa Kudrow's Emmy Awards makeup routine, Brett luckily gave us an entire product-by-product breakdown of the look...

While there's always a time and place for a statement red lip, lately blurred, tinted, and soft-matte finishes have been increasingly popular, and Billie Piper's clever trick will help you adjust all your signature shades to match.

Though many of the best long-lasting lipsticks offer impressive pigment, that doesn't mean you always have to wear them at their full intensity. There are ways to achieve several looks from one formula, from applying a gloss over the top, for instance, to layering it over a lip liner - for boosted longevity. You can also diffuse the tint by gently dabbing on your lippie rather than swiping, and blending it out with your finger or perhaps better yet, a lip brush. The latter is one tool we often overlook because lipstick is designed to apply directly. But as Billie Piper's soft-focus lip at this year's Toronto International Film Festival proves, it can create such a chic and wearable look.

The actress walked the red carpet in a structured black suit, offset by her strawberry-blonde hair, styled into a voluminous, side-parted bob, a pop of fresh, dewy blush and the loveliest 'blurry' rose lip.

Detailing the look and all the products used to create it in an Instagram post, celebrity makeup artist James Molloy wrote: "Keeping the complexion sheer and glowy with a boyish blush and blurry lip felt right against the structured suit and soft hair." We couldn't agree more; there's something so effortless about the pairing, but specifically the lip, which Molloy shared was actually applied with a lip brush (the Mykitco 503 My Blurred Lip Brush).

Interestingly, the lipstick Piper wore, Lisa Eldridge's True Velvet Lip Colour in the shade 'Velvet Jazz,' is a brick-red tone, but you wouldn't know it when looking at the star's soft, blushy lip. To us, it feels very in line with French makeup and the trend of tinted and 'bitten' lips. It's subtle but elevated, the sort of look that works for every day, not just for an event.

This trick of using a brush to apply and diffuse the lipstick gives you a lot of control over the finish and colour payoff. You can build it up as desired or buff it out, making this statement shade feel more approachable and versatile. And of course, you can use it in tandem with all your favourite signature lipstick shades.

This flat-style brush also works for applying and blending out your lip liners, and even buffing two lipstick shades together, making it quite the multi-tasker to have in your kit too.

While the shade match and overall coverage are key when selecting a new foundation, your choice of finish can also make such a big difference to the look, feel and longevity of your makeup. Matte vs satin foundations, for instance, really vary - even when it comes to application.

Among the best foundations, you'll find a range of options, from sheer and dewy formulas that add luminosity to your skin to slightly heavier matte options that blur and banish shine. The latter are often touted as the best foundations for oily skin types for that very reason and for boasting the highest levels of coverage. Though, as Aimee Connolly, make-up artist and founder of Sculpted by Aimee, explains, "coverage isn't determined by whether a foundation is matte or satin."

Satin foundations are one genre that, in our experience, often get misunderstood or lumped in with the matte category, as they can offer a similarly seamless effect, but they are, in actuality, very different. "You'll find both finishes available in light, medium and full coverage formulas. The most important thing is the formulation itself and how it sits on the skin. A well-formulated satin foundation can offer just as much coverage as a matte one while still looking fresh and natural."

As for which one to choose, below we've outlined which skin types they will best complement and shared our favourite examples of satin and matte foundations.

Matte vs satin foundation: the differences, explained

If you're in the market for a new foundation but aren't sure what separates a matte one from a satin formula, Connolly explains that the latter "sits somewhere between matte and dewy. It gives the skin a healthy-looking glow without appearing shiny, which is why it's such a universally flattering finish. I always think of it as skin that looks fresh, smooth and well-rested.

"The Sculpted by Aimee Satin Silk Foundation is a great example of this, giving the skin a natural finish while still looking like skin." The e.l.f. Soft Glam Satin Foundation is also a lovely example of an affordable satin formula, as it offers buildable coverage, whilst feeling hydrating.

A matte foundation, on the other hand, is as it sounds: it delivers a smooth, matte and non-dewy finish. Hourglass' Vanish Seamless Finish stick and Charlotte Tilbury's Airbrush Flawless foundation are both ranked among the best matte foundations for those keen to invest in one.

Our matte and satin foundation picks

Who should use a matte vs satin foundation?

"Both finishes are popular options for the oilier skins - a matte foundation delivering even more so for that skin type," notes Connolly. "Essentially, a matte will give even more oil control and a satin finish then tends to suit most skin types and is ideal for anyone looking for a natural, skin-like result with a little softness. It really comes down to the finish you feel most confident in."

Which is best for mature skin

Connolly recommends a satin formula for more mature skin: "In general, I would lean towards a satin finish for mature skin - and all skin, to be honest - as my preference would always be to have a little movement in makeup, and you can set or build as you need. I find satin finishes tend to bring a little more freshness and luminosity back into the complexion."

She adds that matte formulas can sometimes emphasise dryness or texture if the skin isn't well hydrated before application. "A satin finish helps create a smoother, more radiant look while still providing great coverage."

How to apply matte vs satin foundations?

"I always recommend starting with well-prepared, hydrated skin regardless of the finish. I think depending on your skin type, the prep may differ, but overall, how you apply foundation regardless of the finish shouldn't vary too much," says Connolly.

"If you love sponges, go for it; if you're a brush user, then stay with that. For me, I have always loved brushes - I find them quick and fuss-free. With a matte, you may just want to buff it in a little more to ensure a seamless finish, but to be honest, you shouldn't find a huge variation in them once it's right for your skin."

There are plenty of best foundation brushes to choose from, though our beauty team particularly recommends Hourglass' Ambient Soft Glow brush and e.l.f.'s Smooth Swipe Foundation Brush (which is lovely for using in tandem with the brand's Soft Glam Satin foundation).

With Strictly Come Dancing set to return on September 19th, team w&h is eagerly anticipating the return of the glitziest show on TV with an all-new presenting trio at the helm.

And that's not the only element of Strictly that's had a little freshen-up, as head judge and dance royalty, Shirley Ballas, has just unveiled her 'non-invasive facelift.' On the results of her treatment, Ballas has said, "I'm going into this next series looking better than when I started, and I can honestly say this is the most confident I've ever felt going into a new series."

Considering this is her 10th series as head judge, that's a ringing endorsement. The treatment, NeoGen Plasma, is a known celebrity favourite, with Tamzin Outwaite and Debbie McGee's NeoGen Plasma treatment both hitting headlines this year - here's everything you need to know.

"I recently saw some photographs of me taken in 2017, and if I’m really honest with myself, I was quite embarrassed," admitted Ballas. "I remember that back then I really wasn't happy with my skin, I had sagging jowls, multiple lines and wrinkles plus lots of little age spots. I often had to rely on tinted makeup and heavy foundation to cover all those problem areas."

And she added: "I never thought back then that my skin would look as beautiful and as radiant as it does now. I'm going into this next series looking better than when I started and I can honestly say this is the most confident I've ever felt going into a new series."

How does NeoGen Plasma work?

In a nutshell, NeoGen Plasma is a knife- and needle-free treatment where high-intensity nitrogen gas is directed into the skin in order to stimulate collagen and elastin production. This, in turn, has multiple benefits and improves everything from skin laxity to lines, texture and tone.

The treatment is entirely non-invasive and does not add volume or affect facial muscles as with some injectibles. NeoGen works with your natural processes, so it is popular for anyone looking for skin rejuvenation that looks entirely natural.

It is recommended that patients undergoing NeoGen Plasma have a course of treatments, and the intensity can be dialled down or up, depending on how powerful a result you want - this also has an impact on how long the 'downtime' and skin shedding period is after treatment.

Earlier this year, Shirley also had some lower-energy treatments with Dr Johanna Ward, but this time Ballas opted for a course of six higher-energy sessions at the Ouronyx Aesthetic Clinic, ahead of the launch of Strictly Come Dancing's 24th series.

"This year I’ve had some really strong treatments from NeoGen," explained Ballas, "probably the strongest treatments I’ve had up to date."

"My skin was shedding, and I thought my downtime would be about five days, and it was closer to ten days. But the results by going that little bit higher on the NeoGen machine are outstanding, and I have to say I’m happier than ever with my skin.”

“I was a little bit nervous about going higher," she continued, "but it wasn't painful after they applied a lot of numbing cream. I just didn’t know what was going to happen to my skin, and it did shed. I looked a little strange for a minute or two there, but the end result is absolutely remarkable.”

What other collagen-stimulating treatments are popular?

With collagen stimulation a hot topic in beauty, it's no surprise that famous faces are turning to NeoGen for rejuvenation. As we hit our 40s, 50s and beyond, our natural collagen production slows down.

This is particularly true as we enter perimenopause and menopause, and many women want something more than even the best facial moisturiser can offer, so look to in-clinic collagen-boosting treatments.

As well as NeoGen, non-invasive energy-based treatments such as Ultherapy and HIFU are popular for subtle, collagen-boosting effects. Another option is an injectable biostimulator, such as Sculptra, which stimulates natural collagen production to target lines, wrinkles and sagging skin, with results lasting up to two years. Our editor's Sculptra review, with before and after photos, has all the details on that particular treatment.

As for Ballas, she is loyal to NeoGen and will likely remain so. "This year particularly, I find my skin lifting, looking brighter, looking just beautiful," she concluded. "Lifting up the chin, all around on my jowls. All the places that women tend to look at in the mirror and think, “Mm.” And I have to say, I am thrilled with my results.”

Shirley Ballas has had a course of NeoGen treatments at the Ouronyx clinic. NeoGen treatments are available at clinics across the UK. To find a local clinic, visit neogenplasma.co.uk/neogen-clinics/

When it comes to hair styling tools, it's always worth considering your hair type, needs, and personal preferences to ensure the best results.

Whether you want one of the quietest hair dryers for a minimally-noisy blow-dry or one of the best hot brushes for bouncy results, the best hair dryer means something different to everyone.

Thankfully, Cloud Nine's hair dryer lineup has got us covered, having developed a tool range that supports every hair type, texture and styling routine. Fortunately for us, said collection has been expanded to include three all-new hair dryers – here's how to find the right one for you...

Marking the start of a new era, Cloud Nine has more than doubled its two-tool Air collection with the launch of three new hair dryers. Between the Airshot Pro Mini, Hot Air Brush and Airshot Pro Adapt, the expansion provides a solution for every styling routine.

The new trio caters to a wider range of hair types, textures, preferences and budgets. From fine to thick and curly to straight, it's never been easier to achieve salon-quality results at home in no time at all – without compromising the health of your strands.

While the portable Airshot Pro Mini might be best suited to those always on the go or who are seeking a lightweight tool that prevents arm ache, the Airshot Pro Adapt is perfect for those who want more precise and controlled styling. Alternatively, the Hot Air Brush is ideal for those with fine, limp strands that are lacking volume and bounce.

More hair styling tools from Cloud Nine

Now you're well acquainted with the trio of newbie tools, let us introduce you to the brand's two original hair dryers – plus the clever air-powered curling wand dryer attachments.

I have been in a long-term, committed relationship with the Tan Luxe Express Mousse since it launched in March 2023.

It is everything you could want in a fake tan – easy to apply without drips, pretty foolproof even if your application is a bit slapdash, and develops quickly, so you don’t have to worry about sleeping in your tan or staining your sheets.

The formula is also clear, so you don’t get any of the patchiness that can come with using a fake tan with a guide colour. I’ve waxed lyrical about all the reasons why I think it’s the best fake tan for pale skin in my Tan Luxe Express Mousse review.

This summer, shock horror, I ran out – and I didn’t have time to order a new bottle of my best fake tan before I needed to apply it again. So, instead of accepting my fate as a naturally pasty woman, I reached for the bottle of St Tropez Express Dark Whipped Mousse I’d been hoarding for this kind of tan-based emergency.

I have been an avid weekly tanner for the last decade, so I know how to tan like a pro and have my timings for an express formula down: 15 minutes for hands before rinsing with water (no soap) and between 35 and 45 minutes for the rest of me, depending on how dark I want to go. It’s just enough for what I call a ‘taking the edge off tan’ that lasts all week, rather than ending up tangoed.

I gave the new St Tropez a whirl, and after just 35 minutes of wear and four hours of development time, I looked like I’d just landed back from two weeks in the Maldives. It was my first fake tan fling of the summer, and my head was well and truly turned.

No longer fully wedded to my beloved Tan Luxe, it seemed like a good opportunity to give a couple of other tans a chance. I tried two more this summer, and I’ve pretty much finished both bottles. Holiday romances or new, long-term contenders for the top spot in my bathroom cabinet? Let me walk you through the formulas…

Self Glow by James Read Sun Drenched Express Tan Mousse

Everything James Read touches quite literally turns to gold. With more than 20 years of experience bronzing the likes of Sienna Miller and Geri Halliwell-Horner, he knows what makes a really brilliant tanning product.

He relaunched his own tanning line, now called Self Glow by James Read, in 2024, with a defining USP that all of his products are formulated with skincare benefits. Joining the line-up, The Sun Drenched Express Tanning Mousse launched this summer with what I would say is a disproportionately low amount of noise for how good this product is.

It is red-toned, a decision Read has made to make his formulas suitable for all skin tones, and it gives my normally quite sallow skin the biggest lease of life. With a warm fake tan undertone, it’s no longer quite so glaringly obvious that my toddler didn’t sleep at night until she was two.

As with most express fake tans, the guidance is to leave it on for between one and three hours, depending on how deep you want your glow to be. It is on the fairer side compared to others on this list, so even I will stretch my usual strict 45-minute limit to an hour.

The guide colour makes it easy to apply without missing any spots, and it’s lovely and light, which has been really welcome during the heatwaves. Even if it’s only for an hour, I don’t want to feel too sticky when I’m marinating. It’s not designed for the face, but I’m too lazy for a separate product and have been using it with a brush, as it’s airy enough not to sit in my pores or trigger breakouts.

The colour lasts for a good five days, and fades without streaking. If you’re someone who normally only uses gradual tan and is thinking about upping the ante to hold onto your glow through winter, this is the perfect place to start.

Loving Tan 2 HR Express Mousse

I have heard so many brilliant things about this tan over the years, but kept being too nervous to stray from what I knew. After seeing yet another influencer raving about how amazing it was, it felt silly not to give it a try for myself. It’s good – really good. It comes in three shades: medium, dark and ultra dark, so I went with medium, which felt like a sensible move for my pale complexion.

A word of warning – the guide colour is quite intense. My husband was genuinely quite startled when I first emerged from the bathroom with the guide tint still on, but the actual, post-shower finish is much more subtle.

The thing I loved most about this is how natural the finish is. It doesn’t have quite as much of a red undertone as the Self Glow by James Read Tan, but it is the closest to the colour I’d normally tan to.

There are none of the giveaways you usually get with fake tan (dark elbows, grubby-looking knees) just a gentle and entirely convincing veil of colour. The staying power isn’t the best, and it is noticeably lighter by the time you’ve showered the next day. I think to make it last a week, you would maybe need to leave it on for the full two hours or choose the darker option.

It works well on the face too, but I have been taking the time to use the dedicated 2 Hour Express Face Tanning Serum instead, which definitely leaves my skin softer and smoother. If you’re someone who’s worried about making a mistake with your tan, give this a try, as you really can’t go wrong.

St Tropez Express Dark Whipped Mousse

As I’ve already said, this was the tan that first turned my head this summer. I have loved St Tropez tans for as long as I can remember, but the idea of a dark mousse did initially make me nervous about looking like an extra from TOWIE. It’s worth noting here that dark refers to how deep the colour of the tan is, not the natural tone of your skin.

I left it on for 35 minutes, and ended up looking like I’d been on holiday overnight. There is something truly transformative about having a tan this deep. I don’t love getting my legs out, so I’ve reached for this every time I’ve worn shorts this summer, as it does an amazing job of blurring all those little imperfections like veins and shaving nicks, as well as somehow making my thighs look more toned. Unlike the other two, it has a green undertone which works well to neutralise any redness in the skin.

The only gripe I have with this otherwise fantastic tan is that the mousse can be a bit spluttery. My cream carpet and I learnt that the hard way – good job I haven’t replaced them since we moved in.

The texture of the mousse is silky and spreads like a dream, but you do have to move quite fast as it dries quickly. I always work in sections (legs, feet, torso, tummy, back, arms, face, hands), which gives you just enough time on each.

The fade can be a bit patchy, but you get a good five days before it’s time for a big exfoliate. It’s enough for a golden tan for a weekend away, which is the most you ever really need.

Whether you're considering a new-season chop or a fresh colour, Jessica Chastain's cinder-toffee bob offers chic, autumnal inspiration on all counts.

When the seasons shift, a desire for change usually follows, whether it's the products you use, your wardrobe or your hair. The latter feels especially true in the autumn. Often we feel ourselves drawn to darker tones and warmth, as well as glossing techniques to add a luxe-looking shine and dimension. This year's array of autumn hair colour trends offers exactly that, though along with the classic coppers and rich brunettes, blonde is proving to be very popular indeed. In fact, it's a relative who's who of golds and strawberry-blonde tones, with Jessica Chastain having just added yet another hue to the mix.

The shade, which we're dubbing 'cinder-toffee' blonde, is warm and bright all at once - a refreshing departure from all the cool, icy tones that dominated last year's trends. The actress debuted her new 'do at the US Open on September 12th, delivering not just colour inspiration, but the perfect cut to pair it with too.

Blonde and a bob - the hair transformation of all transformations. The colour especially feels like such a chic option for natural and faux blondes looking to subtly elevate their strands for the new season or for those craving a very dramatic change. Chastain herself swapped her natural red for this golden-blonde hue.

As Chastain's hairstylist, Renato Campora wrote on Instagram when sharing the look: "Hair color is never just about changing your look—it’s about transforming your energy. Trying something new takes courage. A new color can brighten your face, soften your features, build confidence, and reveal a side of your personality that has been waiting to come forward."

Chastain's radiant cinder-toffee blonde really does just that. The colour, which was created by hair colourist Liam Casey, is so rich and warm, offering a softness to the actress' complexion and features, while at the same time, delivering a chic contrast to her autumnal wardrobe. At the US Open, for instance, she wore an all-brown outfit, and her new blonde hair added a lovely brightness to the ensemble. It's really amazing how different she looks with blonde hair, and it just goes to show how you can really reinvent yourself with just a trip to the salon.

Autumn really is the perfect time for it, especially if you opt for a big chop too (short bob hairstyles are also very trendy right now - just saying!). So if you're keen to follow Chastain's lead and change up your look, you have the perfect cut and colour inspiration and a great reference picture to show your hairstylist.

One of the many appeals of a bob hairstyle is that its shorter length should, in theory, make styling a little easier. But whether you favour the fuller shape of an Italian bob or the slightly longer slip bob, there’s one area that can be surprisingly tricky to master: the back.

It’s something our Editor-in-Chief, Hannah, discovered after returning from holiday and noticing that, while the front of her hair looked polished in photographs, the back had a tendency to fall flat and develop kinks. So, we enlisted legendary hairstylist Michael Douglas, whose client roster includes Kate Moss and Claudia Schiffer, to show us how to restore shape and bounce.

His solution? A heated styling brush and a simple technique that takes just “three or four minutes” – and, importantly, is easy enough to do on yourself. Better still, this trick works on dry hair, making it a convenient way to revive a bob between washes or quickly bring it back into shape before heading out.

Michael's fix involves just a few minutes with one of the best hair tools – his very own MD London WAVE Heated Styling Brush. First, he clips up the top section of Hannah’s hair and mists the underneath with a dry heat protection spray. Working in small sections, he places the heated brush underneath the hair and slowly rotates it inwards as he moves through the lengths.

“The little fine bristles will pick up the hair and get it to stick to the barrel,” he explains. “As we start to turn the brush, we get this curve in the hair.” The trick is to introduce some height at the same time: “Lift it up at the roots to get a bit of height.”

There’s no need to give yourself a full blow-dry first – “you can let your hair dry naturally, brush it into shape and put a little bit of product on it if you want,” says Michael. We'd recommend a dry volumising spray, like this L'Oreal one, if flat roots are a problem.

Once dry, simply work around the back of the head section by section with the heated brush, lifting at the roots and curving the ends under. The whole process takes “literally three or four minutes”, making it an easy way to refresh your style without starting again from scratch.

The finished effect is noticeably more voluminous. “It sits like a fully styled head of hair now,” says Michael of Hannah’s finished look. “No kinks, just a shiny, bouncy bob.” And considering the back of the hair is often the area we pay the least attention to, a few extra minutes spent there could be all it takes to make your bob look polished from every angle.

Why does a bob go flat at the back?

It’s a classic case of ‘out of sight, out of mind’, and one of the most common bob mistakes. We tend to focus our styling efforts on the sections we can see, ensuring the front has shape, body and volume, while the back often gets far less attention. Add hat hair, humidity and hours spent horizontal on a sun lounger into the mix, and it’s easy to see why a bob can quickly fall flat on holiday.

In Hannah’s case, this meant a lack of volume and a few unwanted kinks. Or, as Michael rather brilliantly puts it: “You’ve got a lovely shape at the front, but it looks like you’ve been crashed into at the back.”

In a world where it seems like every retailer and brand is launching their very own beauty advent calendar, I'm here to cut through the noise and tell you which one is actually worth parting with your money for – and I'm not talking about one just filled with 25 travel-sized products.

It might only be September, but I've already had my eyes on the best beauty advent calendars that 2026 has to offer. Speaking of which, there's one that has stood out from the festive crowd this year thanks to it impressively making home to 40 buys, including the best face moisturiser and long-lasting perfumes.

While the Selfridges beauty advent calendar took the crown last year, Sephora's curated edit topped the charts for me this year. This advent calendar has sold out every year for the last four years, but I think the 2026 edition is better than ever – and just wait until you see how many full-sized products are inside...

While other advent calendars host 25 products, one for every day of the countdown to Christmas, in this year's Sephora advent calendar, you'll be treated to an impressive 40 buys. With the contents valued at a huge £1,025, you'll be making a 77% saving. And I'm not talking about deluxe minis here; 27 of the products in the lineup are full-sized.

Unlike other calendars on the market, I love how there are a plethora of instantly recognisable brands hidden inside these reflective silver boxes, such as MAC, K18, Color Wow and Sol de Janeiro. What's more, 10 of those brands are exclusive to Sephora, such as PHLUR, Glow Recipe, and Merit Beauty, meaning you'll only find them inside this calendar.

This advent calendar also treats you to a wide range of products that you'll actually use, rather than those that will simply gather dust on your dressing table. From the trending K-beauty Biodance sheet masks and one of the best-smelling body lotions from Sol de Janeiro to K18's well-loved repairing hair mask and Tatcha's hydrating water cream moisturiser – all of which are favourites amongst the woman&home beauty team.

What's inside the Sephora advent calendar 2026?

Want a full breakdown of everything you can expect to find stashed inside the 2026 Sephora calendar? Look no further than the below list...

• Biodance PDRN Sheet Mask
• Color Wow Insta Wow Advanced Dry Shampoo 60ml
• Danessa Myricks Beauty Yummy Skin Glow Serum 32.5ml - Fresh Pressed
• DERMALOGICA Daily Milkfoliant 13g
• Discothèque Lola at Coat Check Candle 220g
• Dr Sam's Flawless Cleanser 200ml
• Fugazzi Cloudh Nine EDP 10ml
• GISOU Honey Milk 5-in-1 Styling Cream 50ml
• Glow Recipe Vitamin C Brightening Korean Toner Pads
• GLOWERY Daily Dew Tiger Grass Glow Serum 30ml
• Grown Alchemist Soothing Hand Cream 65ml
• HAUS LABS Atomic Shake Lip Lacquer 4ml - Ruby
• Hourglass Veil Translucent Setting Powder Travel Size 2g
• Huda Beauty Easy Blur Primer 30ml
• K18 Leave-in Molecular Repair Hair Mask 50ml
• KAYALI Eden Sparkling Lychee | 39 Eau de Parfum 10ml
• Kosas Shiny Objects Wet Glisten Powder Highlighter 4.5g - Opaline
• LANEIGE Bouncy & Firm Sleeping Mask 25ml
• Laura Mercier Caviar Stick Matte 1.64g - Café Noir or Laura Mercier Caviar Stick Shimmer 1.64g - Modern Rose
• M.A.C Macximal Sleek Satin Lipstick 3.5g - Crème in your Coffee
• MAKEUP BY MARIO Ethereal Moonlight Eyeshadow Palette
• Maria Nila True Soft Argan Oil 100ml
• Medicube Collagen Jelly Cream 50ml
• Medik8 Niacinamide Peptides 30ml
• MERIT Beauty Flush Balm Cream Blush 9g - Fox
• MERIT Beauty Retrospect™ L'Extrait de Parfum 9.5ml
• ONE/SIZE On 'Til Dawn Mattifying Waterproof Setting Spray 143ml
• PHLUR Vanilla Skin EDP 9.5ml
• RARE BEAUTY Brow Harmony Flexible Lifting Eyebrow Gel 4.5g
• SEPHORA COLLECTION 12H Colorful Contour Eye Pencil - 57 Rock'N'Brown
• SEPHORA COLLECTION Lip Tint Felt Liner - 01 Terracotta Ink
• Skin1004 Madagascar Centella Hyalu-Cica Water-Fit Sun Serum SPF50+ 15ml
• Sol de Janeiro Cheirosa 62 - Body & Hair Fragrance Mist 30ml
• Sol de Janeiro Beija Flor Renewing Body Wash 385ml, or Sol de Janeiro Brazilian Play Moisturizing Shower Cream-Gel 385ml, or Sol de Janeiro Bom Dia Bright Clarifying AHA BHA Body Wash 385ml
• SUMMER FRIDAYS Blush Butter Balm 3.5g - Pink Sunset
• SUNDAY RILEY C.E.O Vitamin C Rich Hydration Cream 15g
• TARTE Tartelette™ XL Tubing Mascara 8g
• Tatcha The Water Cream 15ml
• TOPICALS Slick Salve Lip Balm 15ml - Papaya
• TOWER 28 LipSoftie Tinted Lip Treatment 11g - Ube Vanilla

When does the Sephora advent calendar go on sale?

The Sephora advent calendar is available for pre-order now, having officially launched on the 8th of September 2026. The calendar will then be dispatched for delivery on or before Friday, 30th October 2026.

How to shop the Sephora advent calendar

For the first time ever, the Sephora Advent Calendar 2026 is available to purchase both online via the website and in-store. Orders online will enjoy free UK delivery, which will be dispatched at the end of October. Alternatively, when purchased in-store, you'll be given a carry box to make for safe and easy transportation home.

Come closer and speak truthfully: aren't you secretly thrilled to be moving into the cooler half of the year? Sure, summer's great and all, but if you're looking for a stylish wardrobe, a stacked TV schedule and a snap of 'back to school' productivity, you've got to hand it to autumn.

Another area in which autumn has the edge is hair. Finally, we can refocus our attention from simply batting away damage to having fun with the 2026 hair trends, via a sharp new cut or rich tone that won't get instantly warped by UV or chlorine.

If you've been mulling over trying new colour for the 'Ber months ahead, you're in luck. This season's colour palette is rich, flattering and deliciously food-inspired. Plus, according to celebrity hairdresser Melissa Timperley, these small tweaks in tone can create the most luxurious, expensive- looking results.

What Autumn hair colour ideas are trending for 2026?

The good news, says Timperley, is you don't need a total colour overhaul to try this season's trends. "I think we’re going to see richer versions of the colours people already love, with more warmth, depth and dimension," she states.

"Fashion is becoming more expressive, with richer colours and texture coming through, from velvet and suede to leather and soft knits, and I think we’ll see that translate into hair too."

Below, Timperley details her five autumn hair colour predictions, with our selection of inspiration photos to take straight to your colourist (or the box dye aisle at Boots)

1. Almond Blonde

While recent years have been dominated by high-maintenance cool, creamy blonde tones, Timperley is predicting a more naturalistic colour palette for autumn. "I think we’re going to see a return to a much more natural, slightly “dirty” blonde. I’m calling it Almond Blonde. Think soft beige, muted gold and slightly deeper natural blonde tones, like the different shades you see in an almond."

"It’s not icy, and it’s not overly golden. It sits somewhere in between and almost looks like it could be your natural colour. I think we’re moving away from blondes where you can immediately see every highlight and towards something softer, more blended and much more believable."

2. Truffle Brunette

If you're not sold on the name alone, the beauty of this hue, explains Timperley, is in its luxurious yet natural look. "Rather than taking brunette really dark and espresso, this is softer, with chocolate, walnut and neutral brown tones running through it."

"Think of cutting into a chocolate truffle," she explains. "At first it looks like one gorgeous rich chocolate shade, but when you look closer there are lots of slightly different tones within it."

"The colour work should be almost invisible. You shouldn’t see obvious highlights or know exactly how it’s been coloured. It should just look like naturally beautiful brunette hair."

3. Whisky Copper

Autumn is the perfect time to experiment with a warmer shade, as reds and russet brunettes perfectly reflect the season's palette - in fashion and in nature. For AW26, Timperley predicts a sophisticated take on burnished hues.

"Copper isn’t going anywhere, but I think it’s becoming richer and a little more grown-up for autumn. Whisky Copper moves away from the really bright orange coppers and brings in amber, cinnamon, brown and golden tones."

"Think of a glass of whisky when the light hits it," she continues. "There are so many different warm shades within it. That’s how I see this colour. It still has brightness, but it feels richer and more burnished. It also works beautifully with the browns, leathers, suedes and warmer shades we’re seeing coming through in fashion.

4. Strawberry Beige

Continuing the theme of delicious, food-inspired hair colour trends and the resurgence of warm blonde shades, Timperley predicts strawberry beige as a "really big blonde" for AW26.

"It’s a soft beige blonde with the slightest hint of strawberry, peach and gold running through it," she explains. "It’s not strawberry blonde, and it’s definitely not copper. It’s a really lovely way of taking summer blonde into autumn without automatically making it darker. You’re keeping the brightness but making it softer and warmer."

5. Damson Brunette

Finally, for those seeking an expensive-looking alternative to the cherry cola hair trend, Timperley suggests a rich damson hue. "We’ve seen lots of cherry and cherry cola shades over the last few seasons, but I think that colour is going deeper and more plum for A/W 2026," she says.

"I’m calling it Damson Brunette. It’s still very much brunette, but with deep plum, aubergine and subtle red-violet tones running through it. I love the idea that indoors you might just think someone has gorgeous glossy brunette hair, but when it moves or catches the light you see that rich damson tone coming through."

September can feel like the real New Year. That ‘back-to-school’ feeling brings with it an urge to switch things up – regardless of how long it’s been since we last owned a pencil case. As the season turns, we’re ready to refresh our wardrobes and trade bright summer nails for a more muted autumn design that complements our favourite cashmere.

Cherry reds and chocolate brown nails typically come back into rotation at this time of year, but Zara Tindall has reminded us of another, more understated option. Looking back at an appearance from the Cornbury House Horse Trials in September 2024, we spotted her wearing a muted mushroom manicure that we're ready to revisit this autumn.

Neither quite grey nor brown, Zara’s nail colour sits somewhere in the middle, with a soft mocha undertone that gives it more warmth than a traditional greige. It also works beautifully with the rest of her tonal look, particularly the taupe knit she wore on the day. And with just enough depth to feel autumnal, it’s an easy seasonal switch for those who aren’t quite ready to embrace darker shades.

How to recreate Zara Tindall’s 'mushroom taupe' nails

One of the 2026 nail trends that has dominated this summer has been milk nails. Spanning everything from sheer pink rose nails to creamy iced vanilla nails, the finish has remained much the same: slightly translucent, semi-opaque and with plenty of shine. ‘Mushroom taupe’ feels like a natural next step as we move into autumn.

It’s deeper and richer than the milky shades we’ve been wearing all summer, but still firmly falls into the neutral nail camp. To copy Zara’s manicure, opt for an opaque polish in a cool-toned, earthy mushroom shade. For a more modern take, you could borrow from the milky nail trend and choose a sheer taupe instead. Or, for something with a little more impact, ask your manicurist to layer a light-reflecting chrome over the top for a glazed nail effect.

As for length, Zara wore the shade on short, squoval nails, which adds to the overall polished finish. Keeping them short also plays into the understated appeal of the look – simple, well-groomed nails paired with a glossy, expensive-looking colour.

Merit's Signature makeup bag, famous for its distinctive sack shape and for being gifted with first-time Merit orders, just got reimagined - and for a limited time only, anyone can get their hands on the 2026 edition, simply by buying one Merit beauty product.

While I wouldn't ordinarily wax lyrical over a makeup bag, or really any bag for that matter, Merit's Signature one is a special case. It's sleek and stylish, the sort that you could carry about as a clutch and not be questioned over. It houses your best foundations and cream bronzers with ease - tying up neatly and opening into more of a flat-lay style for quicker access to all your favourites. As fans of Merit Beauty's products will know, the original bag was a camel-brown corduroy, but as of September 10th, 2026, it's had quite the makeover.

Now slate-blue and made from a beautiful pleated, satin-y material, dare I say the beloved bag has never looked so good, and it can be all yours with your next beauty order.

A look at Merit's Reimagined Signature bag

Designed to be 'carried beyond the bathroom' and elevate your everyday routine, the Signature bag has become a key fixture of Merit's identity. Since launching five years ago, more than one million have been distributed worldwide, and while the original russet colourway will always be in our hearts, the new iteration is just as chic - if not more so.

This reimagined version not only boasts a new blue colour and fashionable, pleated fabric, but it also has longer handles and a more structured shape - to house your beauty buys (or whatever you wish to stow away) even more securely.

Of course, this isn't the first time Merit have launched different, limited-edition versions of the Signature bag, but from the sound of it, this one is replacing the original corduroy one.

As for how to get your hands on it, between the 10th and 13th of September, it is available to all customers, new and returning. During this window, it will be automatically shipped with your beauty purchases - you don't need to add it manually or anything like that. After this, though, it will return to being a complimentary gift with first-time orders.

What to shop to secure the bag

As mentioned, this chic makeup bag is free with any order between the 10th and 13th of September, before once again returning to a complimentary gift with first-time orders from new customers. So, you can shop whatever you like from Merit's lineup; there's no minimum spend, but if you're after personal recommendations, I have several all-time favourites to share.

If there’s one beauty look from the National Television Awards that had the woman&home HQ talking, it was Cat Deeley’s. The This Morning presenter stepped onto the red carpet in a vibrant purple Giambattista Valli maxi dress, paired with tousled blonde waves and the prettiest makeup.

It’s that transitional time of year when our inboxes are suddenly flooded with autumnal beauty launches and new-season messaging. And while I’m more than ready to embrace an extra layer after a long, hot summer, Cat’s makeup is a timely reminder that we don’t need to retire our rosy blushers and coral lipsticks just yet.

Her go-to makeup artist Lindsay Bown described the look as “glowy skin, lots of lash and a pop of colour with a juicy coral red lip” – and that pretty much sums up its appeal. Fresh, radiant and softly sun-kissed, it’s a makeup look that keeps one foot firmly in summer without feeling out of place in September.

How to recreate Cat Deeley’s NTA makeup look

Glowing from head to toe, Cat may well have followed the trusted tanning routine she’s previously shared with woman&home: dry body brushing, moisturiser applied where needed, followed by St Moriz Express Tanning Mousse buffed into the skin with a brush. The result? A golden, just-back-from-holiday glow that extended all the way to her complexion.

While Bown hasn’t revealed every product she used on the night, she did tag Rare Beauty, Lisa Eldridge, Westman Atelier and Dark Swan of Denmark in her post, giving us a few clues.

We can be fairly confident about the false eyelashes - Bown has used Dark Swan of Denmark’s Secret Natural Lashes on Cat several times before, and her full, fluttery lash line at the NTAs appears to have been created with delicate clusters rather than one heavy strip.

As for her base, Bown has previously shared a post of her “skin prep and base favourites”, which included Rare Beauty Liquid Touch Brightening Concealer, Lisa Eldridge Skin Enhancing Tint and Lisa Eldridge Elevated Glow Highlighter. We can’t confirm whether they made it into her kit for the NTAs, but the finish was light-handed – think fresh, luminous skin with just enough coverage to perfect rather than conceal.

A pop of rosy blush brings the whole complexion to life and gives Cat that healthy, end-of-summer flush. While we can’t be certain which blusher Bown reached for, its luminous finish suggests a cream blush or balm formula – Westman Atelier Baby Cheeks Cream Blush Stick would create a similarly fresh effect.

The finishing touch is that juicy coral-red lip. Glossy rather than matte and bright without overpowering the rest of the makeup, it works beautifully against the red of Cat’s dress and brings the whole look together. While Bown hasn’t shared the exact shade, we’ve found a close match for recreating the look at home.

There's a moment every September when you catch sight of the back of your hair in a shop window and think: this needs to go. Mine came a few weeks ago - all sun-lightened ends, salt-crunched texture and highlights that had crept a shade too warm over a summer of holidays. It was time to dip my toe back into the 2026 hair trends for an autumn reset, and it turns out I wasn't alone in thinking so.

According to Polly Miteva, Senior Stylist at HARI's South Kensington, this is exactly the moment the hair world pivots. "The hair trend for A/W 2026 will involve achieving healthy, voluminous hairstyles, performed in different lengths and shapes to say goodbye to the beach waves of summer and welcome in the glossy blowouts of winter," she says. In short: the glam is back.

Polly's advice for getting there starts before you even sit in the styling chair. "After the long summer, the hair needs to be brought back to its best by using rejuvenating conditioning treatments, deepening the hair colour and, of course, a new hair cut." On the cut itself, she's seeing requests cluster around a few key shapes: face-framing layers, vintage-inspired fringes and the shoulder-length blunt bob. But the real headline trend, she says, is something more wearable day-to-day - "daring, bold hairstyles that are also easy to maintain at home," otherwise known as shaggy-chic.

Colour is doing just as much work this season as cut. Francesca Dixon, Senior Colourist at HARI's South Kensington, says the shift is all about warming things up without losing shine. "Summer is slowly saying goodbye, and autumn hair is bringing all the cosy vibes. Think honey blonde, golden beige, rich bronde, caramel ribbons, mocha brunette, glossy chocolate, soft auburn and muted copper - warmer, richer, shinier shades with loads of dimension rather than flat, dark colour." If you're not quite ready to let your summer blonde go, she suggests a middle ground: "honey-bronde or honey bronze is the perfect transition - still bright and glowy, but with that gorgeous autumn warmth."

My hair refresh, before and after

I booked in at HARI's South Kensington with Francesca on colour and Polly on cut and styling, and the difference is honestly the best argument I've seen for a proper seasonal reset rather than just a trim.

Before, my hair had that classic end-of-summer look - long, wavy, with high-contrast balayage that had lifted a little too bright against my natural base, especially through the mid-lengths. It looked fine loose on a beach, but under office lighting it read as slightly brassy and in need of a root melt.

Francesca's approach was to deepen and soften rather than start from scratch - melting the balayage back into my natural colour so the regrowth line disappeared and the overall effect read richer and glossier, closer to the deep brunette and soft caramel tones she'd described. Polly then took the ends in slightly and blow-dried through soft, bouncy waves rather than the looser beachy texture I'd been wearing - the kind of "lush blow-dry" she'd mentioned pairs so well with the season's earthy colour palette.

The result, side by side, is a genuinely different hair era: the same length, but noticeably shinier, warmer and more polished, with none of the high-maintenance colour admin that balayage regrowth usually demands. That's the bit I'd flag as the real win of this trend - it looks like an expensive, considered colour appointment (because it is one), but once you're out the door, it's a wash-and-go blow-dry rather than a look that needs constant reinforcing with heat tools.

What to ask for

If you're taking this to your own colourist, the brief is simple: ask for your existing balayage or highlights to be melted or glazed back towards your natural base for a softer, less contrasty grow-out, in one of the warmer autumn tones - think caramel, bronde or soft auburn rather than anything ashy.

Pair it with a slightly blunter cut or face-framing layers, and a blow-dry that leans smooth and voluminous rather than tousled, and you've got the look Polly and Francesca are both pointing towards for the season.

How to maintain the results

Both Francesca and Polly were firm on one point: there's little sense in investing in a salon-quality colour and cut if your at-home routine works against it. Their advice is to put money into a good, sulphate-free shampoo, which protects colour far better than a budget alternative and keeps hair in better condition for longer between appointments.

Polly's reasoning comes down to the hair cuticle - if it's left too open, through heat damage, dryness or split ends, it releases colour molecules, meaning your carefully deepened shade fades faster and your ends end up looking dull regardless of how good the initial result was.

As summer shifts to autumn, now is the time to start investing in some richer, deeply nourishing formulas and with 20% off across Emma Hardie's best-sellers, you can do just that for a great price.

Whether you're on the hunt for a new best face moisturiser or a spa-like cleansing balm that will help melt away the day (and your makeup), whilst doubling as a calming ritual, Emma Hardie's collection is home to it all. Personally, we love to do a little skincare restock when the seasons change, in prep for harsher temperatures, and all the more when we can bag a little bargain too. Right now, you can enjoy 20% off on a range of products - spanning eye serums to the brand's Moringa Renewal Treatment mask - using our exclusive code WH20 at checkout (valid until 11:59 pm BST on the 30th of September).

But in case you're unsure of what to buy, we've rounded up a few of our favourites, as well as the brand's most-loved formulas to get you started.

The 6 hydrating and cleansing Emma Hardie products to invest in

To enjoy 20% off eligible products, use the code WH20 before 11:59 pm (BST) on September 30th - excludes gift cards and ritual sets.

Don't let the beauty team hear this, but I'm really not keen on splurging over £100 on an advent calendar. I love scrolling through this year's best beauty advent calendar offerings as much as the next person, daydreaming about which one I'd want to land on my desk come December 1st. But with two teenagers and a grown-up son to shop for, treating myself to little luxuries isn't exactly at the top of my holiday priority list.

And yet, the FOMO is real. The office can't stop talking about the Harrods Beauty Advent Calendar (which sold out at lightning speed), and I have to admit, I was tempted by Liberty London's Beauty Advent Calendar when I heard it's stuffed with 29 luxury buys worth over £1,300. My daughter, who just turned 13 and has suddenly become very invested in her skincare routine, would love one, too. I started to wonder if I should just bite the bullet and jump on the bandwagon.

Thankfully for my bank balance – and for my kids, whose Christmas lists never seem to factor in my actual budget – our beauty shopping writer let me in on a little-known secret: last year's Clarins 12-day Advent Calendar is on sale right now at Debenhams.

This means, dear reader, that you and I can still get that luxury beauty calendar feeling without parting with £100-plus of our hard-earned cash. For once, I think I've found a beauty treat I can fully justify – just as long as I can keep my daughter's mitts off it!

Take a closer look at the Clarins 12-Day Advent Calendar deal

If you’ve been eyeing up this year’s beauty advent calendars but baulked at the prices too, Debenhams have just served us up a festive treat. The retailer is currently selling the Clarins 12-Day Advent Calendar from 2025 at a reduced price, meaning shoppers can get a luxury beauty countdown without having to spend the sort of money commanded by many of this year’s more elaborate calendars.

The calendar originally sold for £95, but is now available for £53 at Debenhams – a saving of £42. And if you add the code BEAUTY5, you can get it for just £50.35.

The Clarins calendar was originally sold as containing £167 worth of products, despite its £95 selling price, making it a steal for anyone – like me – who doesn’t mind if their advent calendar isn't the latest release.

Here's what you'll find inside:

• Beauty Flash Balm – 50ml – full size
• Lip Comfort Oil in 04 Pitaya – 7ml – full size
• Hydrating Gentle Foaming Cleanser – 30ml
• Total Eye Lift – 7ml
• Cryo-Flash Cream-Mask – 15ml
• SOS Primer – 10ml
• Wonder Volume Mascara – 3ml
• Natural Lip Perfector – 5ml
• Velvet Cleansing Milk – 50ml
• Exfoliating Body Scrub – 30ml
• Moisture Rich Body Lotion – 30ml
• Tonic Bath – 30ml

Prefer to splash out on this year's versions instead?

If my budget-friendly loophole hasn't convinced you and you're ready to treat yourself to the brand-new 2026 drops, Clarins has just released two spectacular new options for this year:

• Clarins 12-Day Beauty Advent Calendar 2026, £98 at Clarins – Packed with £173 worth of goodies, including a full-size Hydra-Essentiel Cream.
• Clarins 24-Day Beauty Advent Calendar 2026, £165 at Clarins – The ultimate splurge, hiding £272 worth of treats behind 24 doors, including four full-size products.

So, you heard it here first. If you’ve already seen the prices of this year’s beauty advent calendars and thought I’ll give that a miss, a reduced older edition can be a much more wallet-friendly way of working a little well-deserved luxury into your December – without blowing your festive finances.

Shop the reduced Clarins 2025 Advent Calendar deal at Debenhams.

Over here on the woman&home beauty team, we're experts on all things beauty advent calendars, so much so that it would be our specialist subject if we were on an episode of Mastermind.

If, like us, you've also had your eye on the best beauty advent calendars of 2026, you'll know that they've been dropping left, right and centre recently. Retailers such as Liberty and John Lewis have launched their multi-brand advent calendars, and now other brands are following suit.

Having unboxed Charlotte Tilbury's advent calendar in 2025, it's almost a tradition for us to do the same this year. So, without further ado, here's your sneak peek inside the 2026 edition of Charlotte Tilbury's sell-out beauty advent calendar – and we think it's the best one yet.

What's inside the Charlotte Tilbury advent calendar 2026?

For those who want to be in the know as to what they can expect to unbox throughout December, we've put together a list of everything nestled inside this year's Charlotte Tilbury advent calendar...

• Matte Revolution Lipstick in Pillow Talk Medium - Full size
• Hollywood Beauty Light Wand in Pillow Talk Original - Full size
• Unreal Blush Healthy Glow Stick in Rosy Glow - Full size
• Lip Cheat Contour Duo in Medium - Full size
• AIRBrush Flawless Setting Spray
• Unreal Lips in Juicylicious Strawberry Vanilla
• Rock 'N' Kohl in Bedroom Black
• Charlotte's Magic Cream
• Charlotte's Magic Serum Crystal Elixir
• Exagger-Eyes Volume Mascara
• Collagen Superfusion Facial Oil
• Big Lip Plumpgasm in Nudegasm Diamonds
• Pillow Talk Lip Cheat in Pillow Talk Medium
• Charlotte's Magic Sculpting Gua Sha Tool
• Pillow Talk Velvet Organiser Makeup Bag

When does the Charlotte Tilbury advent calendar go on sale?

The Charlotte Tilbury advent calendar is ready and waiting to be snapped up now, having officially launched on 10th September 2026.

How to shop the Charlotte Tilbury advent calendar

For those wanting to nab the calendar, you'll be able to shop it via the Charlotte Tilbury app, website, or at your nearest Charlotte Tilbury store. Orders placed online will receive free standard 2-5 business day delivery or click and collect to your nearest Evri delivery point. Alternatively, you can opt for express 1-2 day delivery for £5.95 (or free on orders over £185).

We're of the opinion that selecting a classy nail look is never easier than in the autumn. You have so many rich hues at your fingertips, all of which instantly afford a sense of sophistication, but these seven in particular are unrivalled.

While classy manicures do, of course, exist among every season's nail trends, there's just something about autumn's nails, especially when styled alongside its fashion trends, that really ooze a certain air of timelessness. Picture a deep, glossy burgundy peeking out from the sleeve of a camel trench coat or chocolate brown nails worn alongside a lightweight, cashmere jumper - classy on all counts. And it's not just darker colours that afford such a look; there are also several soft, creamy neutrals and muted olive-y tones that can instantly elevate the look of both your hands and outfits.

In fact, we can think of seven shades and designs that definitely fulfil this classy autumn nail assignment, all of which work with any nail length and shape.

7 effortlessly classy autumn nails to request and recreate now

Of course, one person's classy manicure might not be another's, but when it comes to these autumnal hues, we think there's truly something for every preference. Whether you're seeking a subtle neutral or a rich, indulgent plum for your September nails.

Our classy autumn mani must-haves

1. Red wine nails

When we think of a classy manicure, a merlot-like burgundy look instantly comes to mind, paired with a sleek and short shape. It's rich, modern and incredibly chic - the exact shade you want to complement soft knitwear and stylishly tailored coats. Like a classic red, this colour is also incredibly versatile and will add a cool, moody pop to any look - be it a white shirt and jeans outfit or an evening dress.

2. Cashmere nails

For something soft and simple, a cashmere-like neutral is a great and very classy choice. The creaminess of the colour feels very fresh and clean, especially when paired with a short nail shape.

3. Mocha nails

Warm taupe and mocha browns are another timeless and classy choice for autumn. They're smooth, warm and perfectly on-theme for the season - what more could you want?

4. Plum nails

If you want a chic but slightly more individualistic look, go for a purply plum tone over a burgundy. This will set your nails slightly apart from the crowd, and the depth of the colour is just so rich and expensive-looking - we love it, especially from October onwards.

5. Berry nails

This sort of berry tone is one of our favourite looks to go for when autumn descends, as it's just so stylish and sophisticated, especially with square and almond nails (as we can see above).

6. Olive nails

If it's too early in the season for very dark nail colours, may we suggest an olive green instead? It's muted, versatile and just a true autumn classic - both nail and fashion trend-wise.

7. Chocolate brown nails

For a reliably classy look, a chocolate brown manicure is always a lovely choice for autumn. No matter what nail length or shape you pair it with, the richness of the colour really shines and complements every outfit you pair it with.

It's true that fragrance can be very expensive, but if you're willing to let go of those designer names, an affordable and surprisingly luxe-smelling blend can be yours. In fact, our beauty team have 12 under-£30 perfumes they really rate.

Okay, yes, you can't bag a bottle of Chanel for 30 quid, and many of the best long-lasting perfumes are on the more premium side, but that doesn't mean the array of popular cheap scents can't hold their own against the pricier ones. M&S' and Zara's perfumes, for instance, are touted for their chic notes and similarities to more luxury blends. We have also come across many more under-the-radar options that are both inexpensive and boast impressive sillage - you just need to know where to find them.

So, if you're seeking a blend that smells great but doesn't make you feel like you have to ration it because of its price, we can help you there. Our beauty team have each shared the three under-£30 scents they really like - and recommend for their staying power and compliment count.

The under-£30 perfumes our beauty team say rival luxury ones

Naomi's 3 under-£30 perfume picks

Digital Beauty Writer, Naomi Jamieson, for one, loves Gisou's Honey Dewy hair and body mist, which costs £27 for quite a good-sized bottle. She's also recently discovered the Korean perfume brand Anillo and has been really smitten with their Shower Time scent, which is £21 and blends rainy notes of muguet, pepper, incense and cedar - ideal for a new autumnal fragrance.

Fiona's 3 under-£30 perfumes picks

From under-the-radar French perfumes to a fruity-floral perfume oil from The Body Shop, Digital Beauty Channel Editor, Fiona McKim, knows a thing or two (or three, we should say) about affordable, chic scents.

Aleesha's 3 under-£30 perfumes picks

Digital Beauty Editor Aleesha Badkar has cracked the code on travel sizes that are actually worth the spend. Merit's Retrospect, for instance - the formula is an extrait, meaning it's very concentrated, so a little goes a long way. Boots have also launched their very own scent line, and she loves the new Soft Island Drift fragrance, with its sparkling notes of banana flower, pear, coconut, apple blossom and musk.

Sennen's 3 under-£30 perfumes picks

It's a clean high-street sweep for Digital Beauty Writer Sennen Prickett's under-£30 favourites, with a ZARA, & Other Stories and M&S perfume winning a spot in her scent collection. The latter is part of Marks and Spencer's newer Studio collection and marries rich, warm notes of tonka bean, tobacco and vanilla - another lovely option as we head into autumn.

Beauty advent calendar season is in full swing, and take it from us, John Lewis' offering is one to be on your radar.

If you've visited the woman&home beauty channel recently, you'll know that we've had our eyes on some of the best beauty advent calendars to hit the market this year. That means we're well-versed in knowing which ones are actually worth parting with your money for.

While we've given our flowers to the likes of the Liberty Beauty Advent Calendar and the Harrods Fragrance Calendar that instantly flies off the shelves every year, there's one calendar in particular that we've heard everyone talking about – the John Lewis Beauty Advent Calendar. After getting our hands on it, we can see why it's the name on everyone's lips right now...

What's inside the John Lewis Beauty Advent Calendar 2026?

For those wanting to take a sneak peek inside this year's John Lewis Beauty Advent Calendar, you've come to the right place...

• Clarins Lip Comfort Oil, 7ml – Full size
• FOREO UFO™ 3 Mini – Full size
• Foreo UFO Mask - 1 mask – Full size
• Molton Brown Red Berry Hand Wash, 100ml – Full size
• Jo Loves Mini Candle – Full size
• L’OCCITANE Almond Shower Oil, 75ml – Full size
• Liz Earle Cleanse & Polish™ Relaxing Edition and Muslin Cloth, 100ml – Full size
• Grown Alchemist Rich Restorative Hand Cream, 65ml – Full size
• NUXE Dry Oil Huile Prodigieuse® Spray Bottle, 50ml – Full size
• Clinique All About Eyes Brightening Serum Concentrate, 10ml – Full size
• Benefit Juice Blush Stick in Figgie, 8ml – Full size
• Medik8 Hydr8 B5 Serum, 30ml – Full size
• Aveda Botanical Repair Strengthening Leave in Treatment, 25ml – Full size
• Philip Kingsley Frizz-Fighting Gloss, 50ml – Full size
• MALIN+GOETZ Niacinamide Restorative Cream, 50ml – Full size
• Mavala Pure Diamond Nail Polish, 5ml – Full size
• Dermask™ Vital Hydra Solution™ Pro Sheet Mask – Full size
• La Mer The Lip Balm, 9ml – Full size
• Dermalogica Daily Microfoliant, 13ml – Full size
• Sculpted by Aimee Line and Shine Lip Liner & Gloss Duo in shade Blush – Full size
• Fenty Beauty Hella Thicc Volumising Mascara, 10ml – Full size
• Laura Mercier Translucent Hydrating Setting Spray Ultra-Blur, 100ml – Full size
• Charlotte Tilbury Beauty Light Wand, 12ml – Full size
• Trinny London Bounce Back Moisturiser Mini, 14.5ml
• LANEIGE Bouncy & Firm Serum, 15ml
• The Ordinary Glucoside Foaming Cleanser, 50ml
• Estée Lauder Advanced Night Repair, 15ml
• This Works Perfect Cleavage, 50ml
• Rituals Ayurveda Body Cream, 70ml
• Neal’s Yard Frankincense Intense Age Defying Cream, 50ml
• Skin Rocks The Moisturiser, 15ml
• ELEMIS Pro-Collagen Future Restore Serum, 15ml
• Sisley Paris Black Rose Mask, 10ml
• Sisley Paris Black Rose Skin Infusion, 10ml
• Shiseido Vital Perfection Uplifting & Firming Advanced Cream, 15ml
• Shiseido Intensive Sculptdefine Serum, 7ml
• Lumière d’Issey Eau de Parfum, 10ml
• Wella Ultimate Smooth Shampoo, 100ml
• Versace Crystal Emerald, 5ml
• Lancôme Absolue The Eye Cream, 5ml 
• Gucci Flora Gorgeous Gardenia Eau de Parfum Intense, 5ml

When does the John Lewis Beauty Advent Calendar 2026 go on sale?

Good news: the John Lewis Beauty Advent Calendar 2026 is officially on sale both online and in stores now – having launched on 7th September. Enjoy free standard 2-5 day delivery (with orders over £50) or the free click and collect service on orders over £40. Alternatively, you can upgrade to named or next-day delivery for an extra £7.95.

How to shop the John Lewis Beauty Advent Calendar 2026

Want to shop the John Lewis Beauty Advent Calendar 2026? You can head to the John Lewis website or visit your nearest store to get your hands on the calendar.

To state the obvious, Trinny Woodall knows a thing or two about beauty. Specifically, the founder and industry expert understands what 40+ women want from their routines and has built her Trinny London brand around streamlined, effective skincare and flattering makeup without the faff.

So, when an offer came in to meet Trinny and try a top-secret new launch at her Kings Road HQ, I was off like a shot. Now, after learning all about this radiant, weightless base - and wearing it for weeks without being able to reveal what it was - I can finally spill the tea.

Meet Trinny London Fearless Skin Tint Drops: buildable, skincare-packed coverage painstakingly formulated for, and rigorously tested on, mature skin. For my money, this is one of the best lightweight foundation launches of the year - although, as Trinny herself asserts, "it's not foundation, it's a skin tint."

On the inspiration behind Fearless, Trinny explains, "We evolve so much, but sometimes our coverage doesn't evolve with us. So we might use things that worked on a younger skin, when we had more oil, and we wonder why a foundation makes our skin look a bit dry, or sits in fine lines."

"When you get to peri-menopausal, we can have a bit more rosacea; we can have pigmentation coming up," she continues. "So you have women who either wear the same coverage for a long time... or you stop wearing foundation, but you have that feeling, 'I'd like to wear something, but I don't want to look caked.'"

Can you relate? I'd urge you to try Fearless. As well as that buildable coverage, it cleverly combines biomimetic lipids (ingredients that replicate the natural fats in your skin that are lost over time) with Evodia Rutaecarpa plant, which boosts your skin's own natural radiance - rather than simply creating the illusion of glow with light-reflecting particles, as many foundations do.

After taking my top-secret bottle of Fearless Skin Tint home, I fell in love with its juicy feel and flattering finish, and it became my constant companion. I've been wearing this base for weeks - at work in a London heatwave, on holiday in the South of France and all day and night at a Scottish wedding.

It covers the rosacea on my chin and around my nose, reliably stays put and doesn't sink into the lines around my eyes. It's also comfortable, hydrating, and (this is rarer than it should be) looks like skin, not makeup.

I've had a good few compliments while wearing Fearless, and have even been asked outright what foundation I was wearing. It has pained me to respond with an irritatingly coy "watch this space" while I waited for launch day. Sorry for that, friends and family; the secret's out now.

Wondering how to apply Fearless? It's easy - one pipette is the exact amount needed for medium coverage on a full face. Push down the lid to drop the formula out, either onto your hand to pick up bit-by-bit and blend, or straight onto your tool of choice.

"We give you three options: your fingers, your sponge, which we developed, or your brush," advises Trinny. "If you have things to cover, I think a sponge is better because you feel you're not moving it too much, whereas if you want it to become part of your skin and you've got nothing to cover, then use a brush and buff it in."

As for where to apply, that's important too. "I've realised I don't really need that much here," Trinny explains, pointing to her jawline, "but I might need it here around my nose, so I start where I need it the most, and then I blend out."

"If you apply it heavily where you hardly need it, you have to put it even heavier where you do want it. So starting the other way is a much better way to do it."

While it was no great shock that my encounter with Trinny furnished me with makeup formulation education and clever application tips, it was a pleasant surprise to leave with a new can't-live-without-it product.

What's more, there were actually two top-secret launches up for discussion that day, and I'm even more excited to tell you about drop #2 in a month. Watch this space (sorry!)

There's a particular moment most of us notice, somewhere in our forties or fifties, when skin doesn't just look tired - it starts to look like it's lost its shape. Cheeks sit a little lower, the jawline softens, and the reflection in the mirror feels less like "ageing" in the abstract and more like a specific, tangible shift in structure. It's one of the most common complaints among women navigating midlife skin, and also one of the hardest to address with skincare alone.

Sagging is one of the most visible signs of ageing skin, and one of the hardest to treat - which is likely why Shiseido has spent the last 30 years researching exactly what causes it. Now, the brand says it's identified five distinct factors behind the loss of facial firmness and contour, and has built a new serum specifically designed to target all of them at once.

The new Vital Perfection Intensive Sculptdefine Serum is the latest addition to Shiseido's number one Vital Perfection range, and the brand has revealed it improves sagging, firmness and brightness in just one week.

According to Shiseido's research, the most significant contributor to sagging is the decline of the skin's collagen network - but not simply in terms of collagen levels. The brand's latest findings look at how collagen is structured within the skin, specifically a net-shaped collagen network that helps support facial contours from within. As we age, both collagen levels and this internal support structure decline, making it harder for skin to hold its shape.

Facial muscles play a role too. Shiseido notes that as facial expression muscles weaken over time, they provide less structural support to the skin, making contours harder to maintain. Combined with reduced skin cell activity, slower nutrient delivery and declining nerve function, the brand says these factors accelerate the visible signs of sagging.

To address these causes, Shiseido has developed a new D-AminoLift Complex™, combining SafflowerRED™, Niacinamide and D-Aspartic Acid. Working alongside the brand's existing ReNeuraRED™ Technology - designed to optimise the skin's responsiveness and regenerative capacity - the formula is intended to help rebuild, reinforce and retain the skin's internal support structure. It's also formulated with Licorice Extract, which Shiseido says helps support the skin's anchoring structure and its natural resistance to gravity.

The serum effectively combines and streamlines the brand's previous LiftDefine Radiance Serum and Night Concentrate into a single day-and-night formula.

Shiseido has confirmed clinical testing showed enhanced firmness, improved brightness and a reduction in the appearance of sagging. In consumer testing, results after one week included a 42% improvement in the appearance of cheek sagging, a 39% improvement in the jawline, and a 43% improvement in the appearance of the corners of the mouth. After four weeks, these figures rose further - cheek sagging improved by 67%, jawline by 68%, and the corners of the mouth by 68%.

Since 1872, Shiseido has built its reputation on combining Japanese aesthetics with advanced cosmetic science, and this latest launch feels like a continuation of that approach rather than a departure from it - grounded in three decades of sagging-specific research rather than a single new ingredient story. Whether the appeal is the science behind the collagen-structure discovery or simply the promise of visible results in a week, it's a serum worth watching as it rolls out nationally this September.

As summer fades and the temperature starts to drop, most of us notice a shift in our skin before we notice it anywhere else. The dehydration that comes with switching from air conditioning to central heating, the dullness that sets in once the golden-hour glow fades, the sudden reappearance of fine lines that felt invisible in July - it's a familiar story, and one that tends to catch us off guard every single year. Skin doesn't do well with abrupt change, and the shift from summer to autumn is one of the more demanding transitions it goes through.

It's timely, then, that Dr. Barbara Sturm has relaunched the serum at the heart of her cult Super Anti-Aging Collection - reworked and enhanced for exactly this kind of seasonal skin stress.

The new Super Anti-Aging Serum is an evolution of Dr. Sturm's signature formula, described by the brand as "the powerhouse formula, reimagined." It's been amplified with next-generation bioactives, including sunflower sprout extract - included to support the skin's NAD+ levels, a molecule linked to skin energy and vitality - alongside superoxide dismutase, an antioxidant enzyme that helps defend against oxidative stress, and Dr. Sturm's signature biofermented purslane.

Dr. Sturm has revealed the reformulated serum is clinically proven to reactivate the visible hallmarks of skin youth within three months. Brand trials reported a 180% increase in hydration, a 58% improvement in smoothness, a 49% boost in radiance, a 29% increase in elasticity, and a 38% reduction in the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. In consumer testing, 90% of participants said their skin appeared more youthful, 93% reported skin that felt hydrated and nourished, and 97% said their skin felt smoother.

Designed to be applied to the face, neck and décolleté morning and evening before a preferred moisturiser, it's formulated for skin experiencing dryness, sensitivity and loss of elasticity - which makes it a natural fit for the kind of barrier stress that autumn tends to bring on.

Alongside the serum relaunch, Dr. Sturm has introduced a new addition to the range: an intensive, cream-to-oil weekly treatment mask formulated with Japanese camellia and passionfruit oils, biofermented purslane and a hyaluronic acid complex. Left on for 15 to 20 minutes, it melts into an oil that's worked into the skin using the included Gua Sha tool.

Dr. Sturm has said the mask is clinically proven to restore elasticity by 84% in just five uses, with a single application reported to increase hydration by 93%, boost radiance by 16%, reduce fine lines and wrinkles by 21%, and reduce the appearance of visible pores by 11%.

Whether it's the reformulated serum leading the charge or the new mask working as a weekly reset, Dr. Barbara Sturm's expanded Super Anti-Aging Collection makes a strong case for treating the season change as a genuine skincare moment rather than something to push through. As always with Dr. Sturm's line, the price point sits firmly in prestige territory - but for anyone whose skin reliably struggles with the shift from summer to autumn, this is a collection built with that exact complaint in mind.

Much like how bright pinks, corals and blues are synonymous with summer styling, a rich, burnt orange is something of an autumn signature, and now Gillian Anderson is making a case for it not just in your wardrobe, but on your toes too.

While there are, of course, plenty of chic, timeless pedicure colours to choose from, there's always something so fun about matching your nails (both finger and toe) to the season's trending colour palette. Especially now that every brand and retailer is debuting their new autumn collections. Red is always a classic, as are chocolate brown nails, but for something really warm and toasty, it's got to be a burnt orange.

In fact, we've seen firsthand how well this rich shade can complement and elevate the new season's styles, with Gillian Anderson having worn it while modelling M&S' September line.

As the brand's 'Chief Compliments Officer,' the actress took to Instagram to share the arrival of the autumn collection, with a carousel of snaps showing her wearing the new pieces, all of which she wrote have her 'seal of approval.'

The outfits included a chic black and orange checkered skirt, a long black dress and a plum-coloured satin shirt and tailored trouser combo, all styled with a pair of strappy heels and, you guessed it, a dark orange pedicure.

Burnt orange nails are always an obvious choice for us when the seasons shift, thanks to the colour's warmth and versatility, but it's often a shade we forget all about when it comes to our toes. But as Anderson proves, it's just as wearable and can really complement and elevate both transitional outfits and full-blown autumn ones too - more so if you opt for a matching orange mani-pedi.

It feels especially apt for your September nails, though, as sporadic sun is still on the cards, meaning you might need to debut your toes at a moment's notice, and a warm, smoky orange definitely works for that, whilst also toasting the approaching autumn season.

Longevity is the latest buzzword in beauty. Until now, it’s been cornered by the skincare market, with ingredients that make your cells behave as if they’re younger. It’s about keeping your skin as healthy as possible for as long as possible. And now, it’s your hair’s turn to get in on the action.

K18 FutureIQ Biomimetic Hair Longevity Serum essentially extends the life of your hair. Trials found it cut shedding dramatically and even reduced the number of grey hairs. K18 is a brand known for its innovation, leveraging biotechnology to restore healthy hair. If you haven’t already used the hero K18 Leave-In Molecular Repair Hair Mask, get on that.

Where the mask has conquered repair, the new K18 FutureIQ Biomimetic Hair Longevity Serum is focused on preservation, building resilience, and reversing premature ageing of the hair and scalp. It’s not a reactionary fix, but more a wellness product that addresses scalp health and hair ageing before the outward signs accelerate.

But can a hair serum, even one that claims to reverse hair ageing in three months, justify a £110 price tag? I’ve been testing it to find out.

How does K18 FutureIQ Biomimetic Hair Longevity Serum work?

Since skincare ingredients for haircare is a huge trend and very relevant to this new launch, let’s think about skincare for a second. There are plenty of products out there that target skin concerns once the damage is done - hyperpigmentation treatments or the best eye creams for wrinkles, for example.

But prevention is always easier than cure, and the most effective way to stay looking fresh for longer is to get on the front foot with ingredients that support cellular health and a resilient skin barrier to future-proof your skin. This is exactly what K18 FutureIQ Biomimetic Hair Longevity Serum sets out to do for hair.

Your hair is subject to the ageing process, just like your skin, and accelerated by lifestyle stressors like sun exposure, pollution, hormonal fluctuations, heat styling and chemical processing. These cause inflammatory stress on the scalp and follicle, which results in premature ageing, which eventually manifests as shedding, hair thinning, early greying, and a compromised scalp barrier.

K18 FutureIQ Biomimetic Hair Longevity Serum essentially puts a support system in place for healthy hair, using peptides and antioxidants that mimic those in your body, and a root-anchoring complex. Together, they strengthen the follicle’s hold on the hair and bolster its natural defences against oxidative stress, as well as helping to restore pigment production to reduce the number of grey hairs.

The serum taps into the body’s recovery mode overnight, so it’s designed to be applied in the evening. It has a dropper system that measures out the perfect dose per section - apply one down the middle parting, one down each side part, and one at the hairline.

How does K18 FutureIQ™ Biomimetic Hair Longevity Serum perform?

During the clinical trials, testers retained as many as 19,000 hairs over 90 days. Given that most people shed between 100 and 150 hairs a day, this is a significant improvement. It’s a running joke in my household that I shed like a labrador. Since using the serum, particularly in the last fortnight of testing, I’ve noticed less hair coming off on my brush every morning, and down the plughole when I wash it.

The three-month trial also demonstrated that up to 70 per cent of participants showed fewer greys. Usually, my greys start peeking through within days of colouring - the bane of a brunette’s existence. By the two-week mark, there’s a visible silvery line along my parting and around my face. At three weeks, I’m forced to reach for the at-home hair dye.

But since I’ve been using K18 FutureIQ Biomimetic Hair Longevity Serum, I’ve noticed that this whole cycle has been drawn out. My colour looks darker for longer. I’m not seeing the grey creep back through as quickly, which has meant that I’ve been able to wait longer before colouring.

K18 FutureIQ Biomimetic Hair Longevity Serum: W&H verdict

I have to preface this final verdict by saying that I’ve only been using the serum for two months. K18 does say that it takes three months to start reversing hair age, and all of their clinical testing was conducted over a three-month period of nightly use.

However, they do admit that improvements can be seen in as little as one month. So where am I at after two months and two bottles? I don’t suddenly have a new head of hair, but the fall out on my brush is a good indicator that I’m not losing as much hair as I was pre-serum, and I think things look a little fuller around my hairline.

It's the grey hair reversal that has really astounded me. It's now three weeks since my last dye job, when ordinarily I'd be forced to colour it, but the regrowth is nowhere near as noticeable. My greys always made me feel tired, run-down, and unkempt, but since they're not as visible or as quick to show through, I don't feel the desperate need to re-colour my hair after three weeks now.

I’ve luckily never had any issues with my scalp, so it’s hard to say if it’s in a better state now, but if beautiful hair is a by-product of a healthy scalp, then this serum has truly made a difference. My hair has never been softer, silkier or shinier. I’m about to start my third bottle, and I hope that by the end of the 12 weeks I'll see a thicker ponytail and even fewer greys - fingers crossed!

As a beauty editor with a slightly lazy approach to skincare, my job involves navigating a fair amount of ‘do as I say, not as I do’. I don’t really think an eye cream is necessary. I’ve disgusted a lot of trichologists by telling them I only wash my hair once a week.

None of these little rebellions particularly worry me - I’m confident in my ability to reach my skin goals (plump, dewy skin) and how to achieve them (enough hyaluronic acid serum to sink the Titanic). One little miss does bother me, though - I don’t use Vitamin C serum.

Even the best Vitamin C serums break me out, and I’ve tried them all. They irritate my skin and cause breakouts almost immediately. I resigned myself to being antioxidant-less and vulnerable to the perils of pollution until I found this powerful protective serum that doesn’t rely on Vitamin C as an ingredient. The best bit? It’s only £26.50.

I know - in the grand scheme of things, my intolerance of Vitamin C isn’t actually that concerning. Having interviewed plenty of skin experts and dermatologists over the years, though, it does feel like I’m breaking quite a crucial rule.

If you know what vitamin C does, you’ll know that it’s an antioxidant that protects skin from pollution, while also helping to heal damage that’s already occurred. Vitamin C is one of the best-known and most commonly used antioxidants, but the downside is that it can irritate sensitive skin types.

Lucky me, then, that I stumbled upon Cetaphil’s Advanced Defence Serum, which is sold as an alternative to Vitamin C for sensitive skin - something I’d never even considered seeking out. I thought I was doomed to be spotty from blemishes or pigmentation forevermore.

I tried it on a whim, half expecting a breakout or a reaction, and was happy to note that it never arrived. I was happier still, a week later, when I noticed how much brighter and fresher my skin looked. I found myself using less concealer, or sometimes skipping base altogether.

Instead of pesky Vitamin C, this serum is powered by a blend of Gallic Acid and Vitamin E. These, working in tandem, have been proven to be two times more effective than Vitamin C, minus any irritation - so it’s no wonder I saw the results so powerfully (and so quickly).

Another thing I never enjoyed about Vitamin C serums was the texture. They were sticky or oddly gritty, and never sat nicely on my skin. Cetaphil’s Advanced Defence Serum is positively silky. It glides on beautifully and sinks in almost immediately, never leaving skin feeling tacky or pilling.

This might also be down to the ingredients list - pairing it with my good friend hyaluronic acid and tightening niacinamide makes it a clever multitasker that provides multiple skin wins.

If you found Vitamin C irritating or hard to fit into your routine, I'm betting you'll enjoy using Cetaphil's Advanced Defence Serum much more. I'm certainly hooked.

From exfoliating our pits to scrubbing our dry lips, our beauty team are getting really candid about the more unglamorous areas of their weekly routines, for all those seeking effective and inexpensive skincare and makeup tips.

While many of us intentionally line our bathroom shelves and bedroom dressers with our most aesthetically pleasing and luxurious-looking lotions and potions, it's the basic, affordable and 'unsexy' products that tend to be the ones we can't do without. The buys that get stuffed in the cabinet, hidden from prying eyes, despite usually giving us the best results. Heartily unfair, if you ask us, so we're thrusting them into the spotlight - along with the clever (and more niche) ways we use them.

From applying glycolic acid to our feet and armpits to going to bed with the best Korean face masks on, these are the more unglamorous steps of our beauty routines that really work and make the rest far more low-maintenance.

The unglamorous tips and products we swear by

Whether you have stubborn spots or dry, crusty soles, we're getting very open and honest about all the boring bits of our routines, which, when you consider their benefits, aren't really boring at all. So, below is a rundown of the essential products we've repurchased over and over and how we apply them, but just don't go expecting any good-smelling lotions or fancy face creams here...

In our 60s, the conversation around skincare often shifts from trying to erase visible signs of ageing to helping our skin look its healthiest, reflecting how vibrant we still feel inside.

But that doesn't mean giving up on skincare or harking back to our younger years. Instead, the best skincare routine is about choosing products and treatments that work with our skin's changing needs, helping it to maintain vitality and stay in great condition as the years go by.

When holistic facialist and skincare expert Smita Ahluwalia, of Smita London, is treating clients, she says that rather than focusing solely on wrinkles, she is more concerned with overall skin quality. Does it look healthy? Is it hydrated and resilient? By this stage of life, many of us have made peace with a few lines and wrinkles – what we really want is skin that looks well-rested and glowing.

The best skincare routine to follow in your 60s, according to experts

Smita adds, "For me, healthy skin is skin that looks even in tone, not patchy. It's properly hydrated and calm. When the skin is well-supported, it has a softness to it and reflects light better. It doesn't look tight or overworked.

Well-cared-for skin at this age just looks comfortable in itself, and that's what reads as beautiful." The goal isn't necessarily to look younger – but when skin is functioning at its best, a fresher, more youthful appearance often follows naturally.

Smita recommends focusing on getting the basics right: gentle cleansing, restoring hydration, locking in moisture and protecting the skin every day. She believes that once skin feels more balanced, you can gradually introduce more targeted products if needed.

And if you're in your 60s and wondering whether you've left it too late to improve your skin, Smita has some reassuring words: "It's not about turning the clock back, it's about improving the quality of the skin you have now. Even in your 60s and beyond, you can improve hydration, tone and overall skin health quite quickly once you start supporting it properly. It's never too late to make your skin feel and look better."

Step 1. Cleanse without stripping

As skin becomes drier and more fragile, harsh cleansers can do more harm than good. When shopping for the best cleanser, look for nourishing balms and creamy formulas that melt away makeup and SPF while helping preserve the skin barrier.

Step 2. Hydrate, cushion and strengthen

One of the skin’s biggest challenges in our 60s is holding on to moisture. Hydrating serums and barrier-supporting creams can help replenish lost comfort and keep skin looking plump and healthy.

Step 3: Bringing back the glow

Many women notice that their skin looks less vibrant in their 60s, even when they're well rested. Antioxidants such as vitamin C can help restore luminosity and defend against environmental damage.

Step 4: Comfort and joy

In your 60s, skincare is often less about correcting and more about helping skin look healthy, nourished and feel good. The best face moisturisers will be comforting, plumping and nourishing – to keep skin functioning well.

Step 5: Pamper and protect

Nourishing and protecting your skin against further environmental damage is key to supporting its health. Top tip: Don't forget your hands. Years of sun exposure and daily wear and tear can leave hands looking older than the face, so apply any excess serum, moisturiser and SPF to them.

The top professional treatment for skin in its 60s

Smita recommends LPG Endermologie because it supports wellness as well as skin health. "What I really like about it is that it works with the skin rather than against it," she says. This holistic approach to facial rejuvenation helps boost circulation and lymphatic drainage while stimulating the skin's natural production of collagen and elastin. In turn, this can help reduce puffiness, improve firmness and leave the complexion looking fresher, brighter and more revitalised.

Unlike treatments that aim to create dramatic change, LPG Endermologie aims to gradually improve skin quality over time. It can also be used on the body to support lymphatic drainage, reduce feelings of heaviness and help improve the appearance of cellulite. "For women in their 60s, this kind of consistent, non-invasive approach often gives more natural-looking results over time," Smita concludes.

Do you have fine hair that falls flat? Perhaps you’ve experienced some post-partum hair loss? Or maybe your hair just won’t grow past your shoulders? Whatever your gripe, the answer could be hair extensions.

Anyone who knows me knows I always have a long-term hair plan. Before my wedding, I wore my hair up for weeks knowing that it would be long and loose on the Big Day. I’ll cut a fringe in winter to grow out in time for summer.

A couple of years ago I chopped my hair off into a bob, hoping I'd have enough time to get back to Rapunzel-length in time for the big 4-0 this year. That didn’t quite work out, and come 2026, it was sitting at a very nothing-y, in-betweeny midi length. So there was one thing for it - hair extensions.

How hair extensions helped me feel 10 years younger

"Over the last year, we've seen a huge increase in the demand for hair extensions and hair pieces," says Hadley Yates, celebrity extensionist and Co-Founder Hadley Yates Salon. "The majority of women coming in are looking to address hair loss, which can be attributed to weight loss jabs, hormonal issues or stress."

If you’re considering adding extra length, volume and fullness, we’ve compiled everything you need to know about getting extensions, from the different types to essential aftercare and maintenance.

What are the benefits of hair extensions in midlife?

In my case, hair extensions were used to add instant inches, but they've also bulked up my ends, which were looking a bit straggly, giving my hair a luscious, healthy appearance.

James Silk, Senior Extensionist at Hadley Yates Salon - and the man behind my own age-rewinding locks - notes that over the years his clientele has got older, with a priority on adding fullness over length. “Many women, particularly in their 40s, 50s and beyond, are coming in to address thinning or loss of density rather than to gain inches,” he explains. “They want their hair to look like it did ten or twenty years ago - healthier, thicker and more resilient.”

Increasingly, hair extensions are being used to tweak the colour without using dye. “Extensions are an incredible way to add depth, highlights or lowlights without committing to chemical colour,” explains James.

“I often work alongside our colourists so we can do minimal colouring to the natural hair and let the extensions do the rest of the work. It’s a brilliant option for women who want brightness around the face or added dimension without over-processing their own hair.”

What happened when our beauty editor tried hair extensions?

I visited Hadley Yates Salon with a strict brief - help me look like I did on my wedding day, 13 years ago. My hair was long, thick and healthy-looking. Fast-forward to the current day, and it lacks the pizzazz it once had. I don’t know if it’s an age thing, a hormonal thing, a post-partum hair loss thing, but it’s just not as thick or lustrous as it was.

James and I had a thorough consultation before my appointment. We discussed my references, expectations, and lifestyle. He advised that keratin bond extensions would be lower maintenance for me, and would last for four months without the need for move-up appointments in between.

On the day, he played around with a few shades until he found two that blended perfectly with my own soft balayage. My hair was washed and blow-dried, then James began the process of attaching the keratin tips to my own hair. He used 120 pieces in total, which took about two hours. He then trimmed the lengths and cut into the front section to blend the layers with my own hair and create a seamless transition.

As soon as I left the salon, I felt like a different person. I’ve always seen my long hair as a bit of a comfort blanket, and I suddenly felt more confident, more put-together, more youthful. What James created was exactly like the hair I enjoyed on my wedding day, 13 years earlier. Revisiting the length, the fullness, the vitality of my twenties has made me feel fresher and younger.

As James neatly summarises, “For many women, extensions are not about transformation; they’re about restoring what time, stress or hormones may have taken away. That confidence boost can be genuinely life-changing.”

How to care for your extensions

Do hair extensions work for everyone?

“Most of the time, yes, but expectations have to be realistic,” explains James. “Many clients come in for a consultation worried their hair isn’t suitable, and often there’s more we can do than they think. The only time I would advise against extensions entirely is when hair is extremely fine and sparse to the point where the scalp is very visible, as that can make the attachments difficult to disguise."

As a beauty editor, I'm constantly testing new launches, but it's the products I reach for again and again - the ones that get used right down to the very last drop - that tell you everything about what's actually worth your money.

There's nothing quite like a running tally of empty bottles and jars to make you feel like you have a put-together beauty routine (rather than just a bathroom shelf of best foundations and face moisturisers that occasionally get used). And if this summer's heatwaves taught me anything, it's that a good natural deodorant is worth its weight in gold - I got through three of them, and I'm not even a little bit sorry about it.

My skin, meanwhile, decided that "dry" wasn't dramatic enough a descriptor for the warmer months, so my hydrating skincare usage went into overdrive: think serums layered on serums, a rotating cast of milky toners and face oils, and more lightweight moisturisers than I can count, all doing the heavy lifting my skin barrier couldn't. And with all that hydration came a renewed appreciation for SPF that doesn't fight it - the sunscreens on this list pilled less, layered better and left my skin looking (dare I say it) glowy rather than greasy. So, here are the 27 products I finished over the past couple of months, and why I loved them.

In these early September days, it's easy to feel quite stuck in that no-longer-summer, not-yet-autumn limbo, especially with your clothing and nails. Thankfully, though, Sandra Bullock has offered a solution to the latter conundrum with a very classic, but witchy-looking pedicure.

While you might think sandal season is at an end, sun in September can't be ruled out just yet; thus, having a chic, timeless pedicure colour at the ready is a very good idea. And even if summer is truly over, it doesn't mean your toe maintenance should be; foot care is a year-round concern. The real question is, what shade do you pick for such an in-between time? Being a 'ber' month, you can definitely get away with a cosier, autumnal hue. In fact, we'd make a case for following Sandra Bullock's lead, with a certain moody shade that is both timeless and right on-theme with the approaching spooky season.

Stepping out for the London premiere of Practical Magic 2 (the highly anticipated sequel to the 1998 witchy romance), the star paired a leopard print gown with a stylish pair of strappy heels and a matching black pedicure. The combination feels so sophisticated, whilst also being perfectly fitting for right now.

As we can see, Bullock opted for a matching mani/pedi, which is always ideal for creating a sense of cohesion and achieving a chic sort of 'put-togetherness.' The dark, glossy nail colour itself goes with everything - be it flip-flops on your late summer holiday or open-toed heels - much like a staple black T-shirt or little black dress would with the rest of your wardrobe. It's timeless but also simultaneously modern and cool, the sort of shade that instantly elevates the look of your feet and outfit, no matter the season.

As mentioned, though, Bullock wore the look to the premiere of Practical Magic 2, which perfectly suits the theme of the movie but also the month we're currently in - making it a great source of inspiration for your own September nails.

Black polish also affords a very pristine and expensive finish, as it hides any imperfections and can be elevated even further with a clear, glassy top coat. Like with a dark red or burgundy, it's a colour that you can achieve a very professional, almost gel-like finish with at home.

It's also fairly low-effort, as just two coats will deliver a streak-free, even wash of colour. It also looks just as good on your nails as it does on your toes, a point Sandra Bullock herself reaffirmed on the red carpet. We recommend layering it under a clear top coat, though, to ward off scratches and lifting and enhance the depth of the moody hue with a luxe-looking shine.

Not many people can say that testing dozens of beauty products is part of their job description, but our team is lucky enough to be able to do so.

Collectively, we've tried hundreds, if not thousands, of beauty formulas, everything from the best mascaras to the best cleansers. So, it shouldn't come as a surprise that a handful of those have left such a good impression on us that we've continued to purchase them time and time again.

While there aren't many formulas that we've gone through multiple tubes, bottles, and tubs of, the following buys have defied the odds and managed to do just that. In fact, we've repurchased these 9 products more than 9 times so far...

The 9 beauty buys we've repurchased more than 9 times

From an industry-favourite multipurpose repairing cream to a peel-off tint for fuller-looking brows, these are the formulas that will always have a spot in our shopping basket.