People often talk about how devastated they'd be if a certain beauty product was discontinued. Most of the time, I struggle to relate - and for a not-very relatable reason.

Because my job requires me to test as many products as possible, and brands kindly furnish me with the samples to do so, I rarely get stuck on one thing for too long. It'd be bad for business. However, there is a short list of exceptions, and one of them - horror of horrors - actually was discontinued last year, Charlotte Tilbury Colour Chameleon.

These sultry, smudgy yet mysteriously long-wearing crayons were some of the best eyeshadow sticks ever to grace my lid. And, since their untimely market exit, I've been watching as my stockpile depleted with every turn of the sharpener. Little did I know, something even better was on the way...

I'm not too proud (or salty about the discontinuation rug-pull) to admit that these sticks have even more going for them than my dearly departed. Firstly, you don't have to sharpen them - big tick. Then there are the shades, which are 50/50 matte and shimmer, so you can choose your own adventure there.

Essentially, they are all some interesting variation on brown - champagne, mink, caramel, cocoa - i.e. the colours we actually want on our eyelids. And do I spot a little nod to Colour Chameleon there with Amber Haze and Bronzed Garnet? I'd know those shade names anywhere.

Like so much of the makeup Tilbury creates, Exagger Eyes Sticks manage to combine fun and glamour with a good work ethic and genuinely foolproof application. I can say that with confidence because (come closer now for a secret) I'm not actually that brilliant at applying eyeshadow. But I can more than manage a nice little look with this, and I believe that you could, too. Sounds good? Great! Let's chat next Sunday.

In the summertime, it's natural to crave softer and sunnier scents - the sort you can live in and bear, even in the heat. Coconut perfumes offer exactly that, with creamy, radiant blends that evoke a sense of beachy bliss and memories of endless blue skies.

Some notes are just so intrinsically linked to a specific season, and in our minds, what smoky wood notes are to winter, coconut is to summer. Perhaps it's because so many suncreams boast the note, not to mention all the ice creams and cocktails that celebrate the flavour. Whatever it is, whenever we smell that softly sweet, nutty and milky aroma of a coconut, a wave of nostalgia hits and our minds are instantly transported to sunnier scenes. Its creaminess is what lends so many solar perfumes their distinctly radiant and sunkissed quality.

So, if you're looking for a new summer fragrance or just aren't a fan of floral and fruit notes and want to try something more in line with a milk perfume or gourmand, these coconutty scents are the way to go.

6 coconut perfumes that radiate summer with every spritz

Spanning premium, designer blends to popular, tried-and-tested high-street finds, there's a coconutty perfume for every budget and scent taste. But if none quite strike the right notes with you, may we also suggest pistachio perfumes, or perhaps a lightweight, airy perfume - if you're just seeking something easy, clean and crowd-pleasing.

What do coconut perfumes smell like

It depends slightly on what it's blended with, but on the whole, coconut fragrances are creamy, warm and sweet. Coconut essentially smells as it tastes: sweet, milky and a little nutty, and it lends a lovely solar-sort of quality and richness to perfumes. It's a very popular note in tropical and summer-leaning scents, as well as milk and gourmand perfumes.

Summer's all fun and games until your preferred (and possibly quite expensive) hair colour starts to turn a fetching shade of yellow.

From UV rays to swimming or simply shampooing more often because you're feeling sticky, warm weather can have unfortunate repercussions for blonde or grey hair. And while permanent toning for blonde hair is an option, salon appointments add up, and DIY highlights are far from a simple - or foolproof - process.

Luckily, according to celebrity session stylist and colourist Kris Barnes, there are some simple steps you can take to protect your hair colour and maintain cool and creamy tones at home - some of which cost absolutely nothing, and can actually save you time.

5 easy tips to stop blonde or grey hair going brassy

Barnes, a colour expert whose client list includes Amanda Holden and Kate Lawler, wants to demystify toning hair, so we can help preserve the colour we love for longer. "It can feel complicated, but toning is actually very easy to get right,” he says, and has detailed his top five habits that anyone can adopt to maintain cool and creamy tones and stretch out salon visits.

1. Hydrate the hair

"The biggest favour you can do for clean and bright colour is to keep your hair hydrated. Well‑moisturised hair reflects light better, feels softer, and holds onto tone for longer," advises Barnes.

2. Protect from everyday stresses

"If you’re nervous about toning, start by protecting your blonde from the things that cause brassiness in the first place," he explains. "Hard water, heat styling, and sun exposure all push hair tone warmer. A shower filter, one of the best heat protection sprays, and a hat on holiday make a huge difference and will keep your hair cooler for longer."

3. Stretch the time between washes

Wondering how often to wash your hair if colour maintenance is a priority? According to Barnes, "Washing less often is a small change that makes a big difference. Every wash lifts a little colour, so spacing them out, even by a day, helps your tone stay fresher between appointments." He also advises using colour-safe shampoo when wash day rolls around, to prevent unnecessary fading.

4. Be gentle

Dullness can also contribute to grey or blonde hair looking a bit sad, and a softly-softly approach can help keep everything smooth and shiny. "Anything rough, for example, brushing too hard and using tight hairbands or hot tools on high, can make it look dull or frizzy," explains Barnes. "Treat it like delicate fabric: slow, soft, and low heat to keep the fibre smooth and the colour luminous."

5. Try gradual toning

"Toning is essential for keeping both natural silver and blended highlights crisp rather than yellow," explains Barnes. Lots of us have experimented with violet toning products to cool down brassy hair, but the best purple shampoo isn't always the most highly pigmented, according to Barnes. "When pigment is controlled and buildable, toning becomes incredibly easy. Gradual toning lets you stay in charge of your colour, keeping blondes bright without the risk of over‑doing it."

Explaining the benefits of gradual toning, Barnes concludes, "Think of it like the difference between fake tan and gradual tan. Low‑level violet pigments that build slowly, neutralising yellow and brassy tones a little more with every wash. It means you stay in control of your colour, and you get cleaner, brighter results without dryness or the risk of over‑toning.”

I know we Brits love talking about the weather, but if my WhatsApp groups are anything to go by, this summer's heatwaves have taken things to another level. “Is anyone else really struggling to sleep?” read one message at 11.20 pm. Within minutes, the suggestions started rolling in: sleep with a cooling fan pointed at the bed, keep a cold flannel on your face, even pop your pillowcase in the freezer.

Safe to say, when temperatures soar, many of us will try just about anything for a more comfortable night's sleep. Which perhaps explains why social media is awash with clever cooling hacks. Alongside fans and cooling pads, beauty products have entered the conversation – with peppermint-laced formulas proving particularly popular.

One that's gained a lot of traction of late is Dr. Bronner's Peppermint Pure-Castile Soap. Thanks to its peppermint oil, devotees say it leaves behind a refreshing tingle that makes drifting off in the heat feel considerably more bearable. We've taken a closer look at the viral favourite, along with a handful of other cooling beauty buys worth considering.

Rinsing off before bed is a great way to feel more comfortable on a hot night, but resist the temptation to turn the shower all the way to cold. While it might feel refreshing in the moment, experts generally recommend opting for lukewarm water instead. This encourages blood flow to the skin's surface, helping the body release heat more effectively, whereas a freezing cold shower can cause blood vessels to constrict, making it harder for heat to escape.

Once you’ve set the water to lukewarm, swap your usual body wash for Dr. Bronner’s Peppermint Pure-Castile Soap. “Washing with the Peppermint Liquid Castile Soap then drying off with a fan is an invigorating way to cool down, especially before bedtime,” says Lisa Bronner, spokesperson for Dr. Bronner's. “It leaves a long-lasting cooling tingle that feels incredibly refreshing during warmer weather.”

The cooling effect comes from peppermint essential oil, which is naturally rich in menthol. Rather than physically lowering your skin temperature, menthol activates the skin's cold-sensitive receptors, creating the sensation of coolness. Follow that with a few minutes in front of a fan while your skin dries, and it's easy to see why the combination has become a popular bedtime ritual during heatwaves.

More cooling beauty products to try at bedtime

While your beauty routine won't replace practical measures such as keeping your bedroom well ventilated or sleeping under breathable bedding, it's an affordable way to dial up the cooling effect of your evening shower.

From ponytails to messy buns, you would rarely see me wearing any updo outside of the four walls of my house.

As someone with fine strands, my hair routine is geared entirely around trying to bolster the density of my tresses – whether that's one of the best shampoos for fine hair or best hair thickening products. My hairline is on the sparse side, so I rarely opt to wear my hair up unless I'm working from home or getting ready to hit the hay.

Fortunately, Laura Geller's all-new root cover-up stick landed on my desk this month and, let me tell you, it's one of the best new beauty launches July had to offer. This nifty, versatile stick delivers fuller, thicker-looking hair in a swipe, while remaining utterly natural to the eye – and it's boosted my confidence tenfold.

As I said, I hardly ever wear my hair up out of the house. I reserve updos for my work-from-home days when my strands are looking a bit greasy. My fine hair and uneven, sparse hairline require a lot of time and gel to manoeuvre the strands to make it appear fuller. That's why you'll always find me with a slick hair brush and Oribe's Supershine Wax Stick in tow. But that all changed when I trialled this 2-in-1 root cover-up stick from Laura Geller.

With a cream on one end and powder on the other, you can either wear the formulas on their own or layer the two together for ultimate long-lasting coverage. I opted for the latter and was shocked at how natural the finished result appeared; it looked like hair rather than something that had been painted on.

As for the wear test, I found that it didn't budge (even in 30-degree heat) and effortlessly washed away with a simple shampoo lather. But the real gem of this nifty little stick was the unmatched confidence it gave me when wearing my hair up.

Not only for naturally fine hair like mine, this clever stick would also be a stellar investment for anyone experiencing thinning hair from menopause, allowing you to fill in any sparse areas for a fuller and denser appearance. Not to mention, it's also great for instantly touching up your roots and greys in between hair appointments. Plus, you can even apply it throughout your brows too.

There's a reason the chic chignon returns every summer. As temperatures rise, even the bounciest blow-dries can fall victim to heat, humidity and the inevitable frizz that follows.

A polished hair up style, on the other hand, looks just as chic from the first glass of champagne to the last dance, making it the hairstyle we'll be relying on for weddings, balmy holiday evenings and every event in between.

"A polished chignon is similar to what a red lipstick does," says legendary hairstylist Sam McKnight MBE. "You instantly look pulled together, ready to take on whatever comes your way." Incredibly versatile, it can be worn slicked back for a glossy, modern finish or softly undone with loose face-framing pieces – much like Sienna Miller’s tousled up do – for a more relaxed feel. "Whether you go sleek and perfected or for a wet look finish, it's a strong and powerful move," adds McKnight.

How to recreate the chic chignon at home

"There are so many ways to wear a chignon," says McKnight. "Go high for a more classic, old Hollywood feel, or straight back, mid height for that effortless vibe, whereas low into the nape has an air of romance to it. Switch up your parting, from straight back to middle for a modern finish."

Once you've settled on your preferred placement, McKnight says the secret is not to overcomplicate it. "I love the mid height chignon, slicked back with hairspray for control and shine and then the chignon itself a simple twist with a pin or two. Not overly complicated, feels fresh, perfect for this time of year."

For a polished finish that lasts, product is key. "My go-to products are always my Modern Hairspray misted through the roots and mid lengths and then brushed back smooth, and a slathering of nourishing balm through the ponytail before twisting and pinning to secure. The balm will hydrate, define and defrizz, sealing split ends."

How to adapt a chic chignon for short hair

Part of the chignon's enduring appeal is that it suits almost every hair length and texture. For shorter hair, keep your chignon low at the nape of the neck, securing it with a thin hair tie before twisting the ends around themselves and pinning into place. If the ends of your hair are too short to get into a full chignon, a half-up, half-down hairstyle is perfect and creates a softer, face-framing finish.

If your hair is on the longer side, try gathering it into a ponytail first, then on the final twist only pull the hair halfway through to create a looped bun. Wrap the remaining lengths around the base to conceal the hair tie before securing with bobby pins.

Now get inspired by our favourite celebrity chignon styles below...

Jessica Biel's sleek centre-parted chignon

Jessica Biel's sleek chignon is one to bookmark for your next black-tie event.

The Princess of Wales' romantic twisted chignon

If Ascot is on your calendar, take your cue from The Princess of Wales' romantic, twisted chignon.

Gabrielle Union's sleek sculptural chignon

A strong side part and a sculptural chignon are a match made in hair heaven – just look to Gabrielle Union for proof.

Olivia Palermo's glossy knotted chignon

A great hairstyle for fine hair, take inspiration from Olivia Palermo and go for a tightly knotted, ultra-sleek chignon.

Thandiwe Newton's curly chignon

Natural texture gives Thandiwe Newton's chignon a softer finish that's perfect for summer occasions.

Payday is here for those who celebrate, and if you're looking to treat yourself to a quality beauty buy this month, look no further than our list of the best new beauty products to grace the market in July.

Unless you're new around here, you'll know I spend my time trialling the collection of new beauty products that make their debut each month. While July's agenda consisted of lathering up one of the best cleansers and slathering on the best eye cream, you can also find me testing serums, fragrances, mascaras (and everything in between).

This also means I'm well-versed at picking out the crème de la crème of the beauty launch lineup. So, without further ado, these are the eight buys that stood out from the rest throughout July, from a trendy milky matcha face mist to a clever root touch-up stick – plus much more.

8 impressive beauty launches that landed on our desk this July

After testing dozens of products this month, there are only a handful of products that have made the cut as the very best, including one of the best hair masks that arrives in a jumbo size and a long-lasting lipstick that requires no top-ups...

In other news...

🕶️ Dove has upgraded its Summer Revived Sunless Tan Range with Pro-Ceramide skincare technology

🐘 Drunk Elephant's T.L.C. Sukari Babyfacial is back and better than ever with a reformulation for brighter, smoother and exfoliated skin

🇬🇧 K-beauty brand, EQQUALBERRY, launches in UK by being stocked in Boots

🍅 LOEWE launches Tomato Leaves body collection

💜 Prada Beauty launches Wisteria Makeup Collection, including a blush, lip balm and eye pencil

🧴 Q+A Skincare has expanded its Boots range, including eight all-new skincare products

☀️ Supergoop's popular Unseen Sunscreen has been reformulated to include higher sun protection of SPF50

🌅 VIEVE's bestselling Sunset Blush Balm arrives in new shades, 'Sorbet' and 'Malbec'

‼️ Honourable mentions go to the two new shades of S'ABLE Labs Moringa Lip Salves, Curél's Intensive Moisture Care Duo, Medik8's Total Moisture Daily Cleansing Gel and Oribe's Bond Building Elixir.

As the woman&home beauty team, it's quite literally our job to be professional beauty testers and see whether buys are actually worth parting ways with your money for.

And as July comes to a close, we're back to give you a peek into the products we've been spritzing, slathering and blending throughout this month – so much so that we've used every last drop of them. Think: one of the best cleansers that is kind to sensitive skin, the best drugstore shampoo for banishing greasiness and much more.

The following 9 products have cut through all the noise and have left our beauty team seriously impressed. And if you needed any more proof of how much we loved these products, just take a look at our not-so-aesthetic pictures of the well-loved tubes, bottles and canisters...

The 9 beauty buys our team loved every last drop of in July

This month we've slathered on one of best-smelling body lotions that boasts a luxe scent with an affordable price tag and worked our way through a plethora of K-beauty buys that are worth having on your radar. So, whether you're looking for a long-lasting perfume recommendation or a nourishing body oil with a glowing review from a Beauty Editor, you've come to the right place.

I never thought I'd say this, but I managed to give myself an at-home French manicure, one that was actually compliment-worthy, using only polishes, no tools or tiny brushes.

With the 2026 nail trends being a wash with subtle and barely-there looks, like coconut cream nails and rosewater-like tints, I too found myself wanting to embrace the natural nail movement. Alas, though, I had a somewhat rough and ready canvas to work with after months of back-to-back gel appointments, and so decided to try a French manicure. Though notoriously tricky to do on yourself, my thinking was that this tip-enhancing design would help cheat the look of very uniform and healthy-looking bare nails, without them actually having to be either of those things.

I got to work with three Manucurist polishes, no stampers or tiny brushes involved, because A). I didn't have any and B.) I have no patience for them anyway. To my surprise, this little faux-natural-nail experiment worked. So well, in fact, that my fellow beauty team members actually thought I'd had them done in-salon. Here's how I did it and everything I used...

A beauty writer's simple at-home French mani, in three polishes

The real foundation of these at-home Frenchies of mine is Manucurist's Active Blur. Not only does it feature an array of nourishing ingredients that my nails desperately need, but it also affords a blurred, soft-focus effect. It smooths over any ridges, marks and discolouration with a wash of sheer, powdery pink. I used it as my base coat, before also layering it over the tip shade, to create a soft blend between the two, but more on that later.

I also opted for a cream nail polish for the signature tips, as opposed to the more traditional crisp white, because I wanted the finish to be very subtle - a real my-nails-but-better sort of situation. The look was then polished off (literally) with the brand's Sunshine top coat, the shine of which was one of the key things my colleagues commented on.

Throughout the process, I only used the brushes that the polishes came with, no additional tools, though the way I applied them played a crucial role in the look's overall blurred effect.

How to do my blurred French mani, step by step

Now onto how I, a nail novice, achieved a good-looking French tip manicure. First of all, I kept my nails short and squoval, meaning I didn't have loads of space or a tricky curved edge to toil over. I also buffed the surface of my nails and tidied them up as best I could to ensure a very clean and fresh look. As with most things, prep is the most important step.

I then applied Manucurist's Active Blur as a base coat, before painting the Crème shade with its accompanying brush, along the edge of each nail. I essentially just followed the existing natural white tip but tried my best to keep the line fairly straight.

Now comes the real trick: I applied two more coats of Active Blur over the top, which smoothed over the tips, creating a softer, more natural transition and masking any slight wobbles in my lines.

I think the pairing of the Crème polish and the blurring, powdery-pink tint of Active Blur affords such an elevated look. Neither is obvious, but they quietly lend a more uniform and healthy effect, especially once I'd added a final layer of the Sunshine top coat. The latter also helped ward off chips for days, which is no small feat with a manicure that consists of multiple layers of traditional, air-drying polish. In my experience, more coats tend to lead to more chipping and lifting, but not in this case.

I'll admit, even I was surprised by how well this manicure turned out, and I left the office the following day feeling like I'd really cracked the code to a chic at-home French mani; such were my team members' reactions.

So, if you're keen to try your hand at it too, here's the process broken down into easy steps:

1. Trim/file nails to desired length and shape (I recommend short and squoval or squared), before gently buffing their surface.
2. Apply a base layer of Active Blur.
3. Use Crème (or another milky nail polish) and carefully brush it across the tip of your nails. I held the polish brush so that the long side brushed along my nail edge, not the end of the brush.
4. Ensuring the tip colour is completely dry, apply two more coats of Active Blur over the top.
5. Add a layer of the Sunshine top coat.
6. For a finishing flourish, add a few drops of cuticle oil and apply one of the best hand creams.

When you picture Eva Longoria, her ultra-long hair in a glossy blow dry is probably what springs to mind. It certainly does for us. While the star has been seen with shorter 'middy' cuts over the years, it's fair to say that longer hair has been a signature for the star.

So when she stepped out this week with a chic layered bob hairstyle, we practically did a double take. Appearing at this year’s Global Gift Gala Marbella, Eva unveiled her new choppy ‘do. The bob is still long enough to skim her shoulders, but inches shorter than we’re used to seeing on the TV star.

Ultra voluminous, her new bob was also parted to one side for the occasion, complete with a sweeping fringe that added drama. This all proved that a side parting is still a very chic look in 2026 - and that one simple style switch can make a huge difference.

Eva’s hairstylist, Iván Gómez, also shared several behind-the-scenes pictures of the fresh haircut, above, to his own Instagram page. So, how to go about recreating Eva’s tousled-yet-polished long bob? A lot of it is in the prep.

If your hair naturally lacks volume, applying a little mousse before you blow-dry adds a nice bit of body. For any curly hair types, you’ll need to stretch and smooth out your hair to provide the base for your loose waves. One of the best hair products for humidity is also a great help here, as it’ll keep your overall style smooth through hot and humid weather. And to really channel Eva's look, be sure to part your hair to the side.

After you’ve applied your styling products and dried your hair, you’ll then tong in your wave – if you don’t have a curling tong or wand, don’t panic. You can also learn how to curl hair with straighteners and create loose waves without one.

When you’re done, a little texture spray can help that tousled effect à la Eva to last, while providing some hold. Alternatively, use a stronger hairspray if styles tend to drop out easily. Our team's styling go-tos, above, will also help you on your way.

If you're tapped into the beauty world, you'll have seen everyone talking about J-beauty and Korean skincare products in the last year or so – and it seems that Boots has been taking notes.

Ask anyone on the woman&home team, and they'll tell you that I'm a beauty box connoisseur, as I've had my eyes on almost every beauty box deal to hit the market. While it's quite a niche area of expertise, let me tell you, it is a handy one – and is sure to save you money.

Speaking of which, we got our hands on this curated Boots edit of Korean and Japanese skincare before its launch and were amazed to see it stashed full of some of the best face moisturisers and the best eye creams across K and J-beauty. And considering how impressive the contents of this limited-edition beauty box are, we're predicting it will sell out fast...

What's inside the Boots Korean and Japanese Skincare Edit Box?

If you want to have a nosey inside the Boots Korean and Japanese Skincare Edit Box, we've put together a list of the contents that you can expect to unbox – from the best face masks to the best facial sunscreen.

• Dr.Reju-All Advanced PDRN Rejuvenating Cream 20ml - Worth £25.90 - Full Size
• Haruharu Wonder Black Rice Bakuchiol Eye Cream 20ml - Worth £15 - Full Size
• Beauty of Joseon Matte Sun Stick: Mugwort + Camilia 18g - Worth £15.50 - Full Size
• Dr.Jart+ Hydro Firming Mask With Hydrolysed Collagen - Worth £8.50 - Full Size
• Laka Fruity Glam Tint Lip Gloss - Worth £15.95 - Full Size
• Curel Deep Moisture Spray Mini 57ml - Worth £12.50 - Full Size
• Purito Oat-In Calming Gel 100ml
• Genabelle PDRN Vita Toning Ampoule 30ml
• Biodance Collagen Gel Toner Pads 10 pack

Where to buy the Boots Korean and Japanese Skincare Edit Box

The Korean and Japanese Skincare Edit Box is available exclusively online at the Boots website now. You can make the most of the click and collect service and get the box delivered to your nearest Boots store, free standard delivery, or get next-day delivery for an extra £5.95.

How long is the Boots Korean and Japanese Skincare Edit Box available for?

As is the case with every Boots beauty box, the Korean and Japanese Skincare Edit Box is only available while stocks last. If we're going off any of the previous Boots K-beauty boxes, this one is sure to fly off the virtual shelves fast. So, be sure to add it to your basket sooner rather than later to avoid missing out.

In celebration of National Lipstick Day, I posed the ultimate question to woman&home's beauty team: "If you had to pick only one lipstick to wear for the rest of your life, what would it be?"

We are of the mind that finding the right lipstick can be akin to discovering that fragrance that smells like 'You' or a haircut that perfectly suits your face shape and style. In our experience, it's a product that can really enhance a look, making it feel complete and affording its wearer an instant feeling of 'put-togetherness.' And while there are plenty of best long-lasting lipsticks to choose from and best lip liners, for that matter, like with anything, there's sure to be one that you find yourself reaching for more than the rest.

That's certainly the case for our colleagues who, after consulting their makeup bags, have crowned three formulas - spanning a multi-tasking stain to a blurring matte formula - their all-time forever favourites.

The one lipstick our Beauty team would choose to wear forever

Whether you're in pursuit of the perfect nude lipstick or perhaps want to try out a stain (which have been proving very trendy lately), our beauty team all have different preferences, so you're sure to find an option that works. Plus, a few of their picks have a range of other shade options to choose from.

Fiona's forever-favourite

For Digital Beauty Editor, Fiona McKim, it's a twist on an iconic Charlotte Tilbury product that she'd happily wear for a lifetime: "If I could tattoo my lips in Charlotte Tilbury Pillow Talk Love Effect in Naughty Talk, I honestly would. This shade has been my constant companion since I picked a tube up at the opening of Tilbury’s Covent Garden flagship (Googled for context: that was January 2025).

"The sheer, dusky colour is my perfect neutral - not too pink, which can scan a bit 'Barbie' with blonde hair, not too beige and deathly-looking against pale skin. It’s basically the colour I wish my lips were naturally. Unlike the original Pillow Talk, this Love Effect range has got some sheen, so is comfy and easy to slick on; no need to faff around with liner. Plus, it comes in that signature CT rose gold bevelled tube - very old Hollywood, very glam to whip out and reapply. Just as lipstick should be."

Naomi's forever-favourite

Digital Beauty Writer, Naomi Jamieson, says there's one shade among Merit Beauty's product line-up that she'd trade all her other lippies, balms and glosses for: "I used to be very neutral on the subject of lipsticks. I had a few I liked, but it was their texture and seemingly constant need to reapply that would always see me swerve them for an easier, low-effort tinted lip balm. Then Merit's Lip Blush, specifically in the shade Bespoke, entered my life and makeup bag.

"Not only do I love its buttery, lightweight feel and blurring effect, but also how subtle it is. The rosy-brown hue is quite close to my natural lip colour, meaning it's easy to wear and incredibly low-maintenance. I don't really need to worry about reapplying unless I want to, because even if it's faded or been half rubbed away by eating and drinking, it's not obvious. It's effortless and comfortable, truly a lipstick that you can just apply and go - even without a mirror."

Sennen's forever-favourite

For Digital Beauty Writer Sennen Prickett, it's a lip-stain rather than a traditional matte or cream formula that she won't part with.

"Is this a safe space to admit that I'm not a huge lipstick fan? I don't like the heavy feeling it leaves on my pout, so instead I’ll typically opt for a lip liner and a nourishing balm for comfortable wear with a defined effect. That was until I was introduced to lip stains, more specifically By Terry’s Tea To Tan Lip and Cheek Stain.

"While I love wearing it as a naturally flushed blush, this water-like formula glides onto the lips and delivers a pink tint that lasts all day long – without even budging during eating and drinking. The key feature that draws me to this product over other lipsticks is its pure weightless feel; you simply cannot feel it on your pout. If you want more definition than the natural-looking rosy effect it delivers, simply pair it with a lip liner to enhance the shape of your lips – I personally recommend Huda Beauty’s Lip Liner Stains too."

We all have things we’re a little insecure about, even if to others, they seem inconsequential – and for me, that’s my chin and neck. I worry about photos taken of me in profile, and even tend to tuck my chin into my T-shirt if I’m relaxing at home around a friend or partner.

For this reason, I’ve long been on the lookout for something to target the skin here. I’ve tried plenty of "firming" neck creams and went through a very strict gua sha phase, but nothing really seemed to make a difference.

This is when I started considering my aesthetic options. I didn’t want anything too invasive, or that came with any worrying potential side effects. I was also seeking a treatment that didn’t require a ton of downtime, didn’t take ages to take effect and wasn’t super painful.

Aesthetic doctor, Dr Christine Hall of Taktouk Clinic, suggested Exion Fractional RF, a procedure that combines radiofrequency with microneedling (and uses AI). Now, after four sessions, with several months passing after my last, I'm far more confident about my jawline and not nearly as self-conscious about my profile. For this reason, I don’t want to gatekeep it, so here’s what you need to know.

What is Exion Fractional RF Microneedling, and how does it work?

This treatment uses a machine that combines two of the most prevalent aesthetic approaches for skin: microneedling and radiofrequency. “Microneedling alone helps with collagen stimulation and is often done as a standalone treatment because it creates controlled areas of trauma. When the body experiences trauma, it responds by repairing the area and producing new collagen,” explains Dr Hall.

“What the radiofrequency does is break down the collagen slightly and denature it by introducing heat. As a result, your fibroblasts, or collagen-producing cells, start creating new collagen and elastin.” This results in smoother, and often tighter, skin.

The idea is that you receive around three or four treatments over a period of months (I had one a month) before seeing the final result, which usually comes around three months after. Dr Hall notes that the Exion Fractional RF Microneedling device is special because it “incorporates AI to ensure that the energy being delivered and the depths are appropriate [for the specific patient].” This offers a personalised approach for bespoke results.

My experience of trying the treatment

At each appointment, I was numbed with cream 30 minutes prior to the treatment itself. This meant only feeling a slight discomfort rather than any pain. After the area was numbed, I was linked up to the machine, which then showed a graphic beneath my skin for Dr Hall to personalise depth and energy. She then used a small ‘wand’ of sorts, which had very small needles that pierced the skin. The process is repeated until all areas of the skin have been covered.

Despite the numbing, you can definitely feel the needles, but it’s more of a dull discomfort than real pain. It’s also over so quickly (around 10 minutes per session), so it’s very easy to handle.

The improvement in skin firmness around the area was definitely gradual, and I didn’t notice much until after the third session. It was around a month after my last appointment, however, when I recognised the biggest difference in definition. I’m now at around two months post-procedure, and I’m told results will become even more noticeable – so I look forward to that.

Would Exion be right for you?

When compared to other options for double chins and jawlines, Dr Hall explains that this is a perfect "in-between" approach for those who want maximum impact with minimal downtime and side effects. “If you consider other treatments for this area, such as fat-dissolving injections, these can be a bit unpredictable because you cannot precisely control where the product spreads. They also tend to involve more downtime, with significant swelling and often the need to wear compression bandages,” she says.

“Similarly, options like FaceTite or other procedures are generally considered minor surgery, such as liposuction. While these treatments are very effective, they come with significantly more downtime and higher risks.”

For me, a lack of skin ‘tightness’ was my primary concern. This made me an ideal candidate, particularly because it was a fairly mild ‘issue’ and would therefore likely be pretty responsive. “In terms of being a good candidate, you are fit, you do not smoke, and you do not drink much alcohol. There was no reason why you would not respond well to the treatment,” Dr Hall tells me of my case. “You had a very small pocket of fat, which wasn’t large at all – even though it felt that way to you. I think that is why you responded so well.”

She continues: “I am pleased with the results. However, I would say that between months three and six is when you will continue to see the most improvement – I would expect it to continue to get better.”

Downtime, cost and availability

I was warned that my skin would feel red, hot, itchy and inflamed following the treatment, but this only lasted for up to 12 hours, meaning the next day I felt nothing. The worst side effect was the itching immediately afterwards, but it was very manageable, and I didn’t experience swelling, inflammation or any other discomfort (outside of a little redness) following any of my four sessions.

As my experience showed, there is minimal downtime with Exion Fractional RF Microneedling. Following a session, you cannot work out or use saunas, steam rooms, et cetera, and you need to be careful with skincare; it’s advisable to use nothing on the area for the next 24 hours, only products like Clinisoothe which can soothe the area and accelerate the healing process. As long as you don’t mind a little redness, you can really go about your day pretty normally following the procedure.

This treatment is available at specific clinics with the Exion Fractional RF Microneedling machine, and prices start at around £600. It can be used to treat “a variety of concerns, including lines and wrinkles, general rejuvenation, acne scarring, scars and stretch marks,” says Dr Hall.

“Areas that can be treated include both the face and body, such as the cheeks, forehead, around the mouth, around the eyes, scarring on the body and the jawline, as mentioned,” she adds. Results, she confirms, last around a year, when you’ll likely need a "top-up" session or two.

I'm not ashamed to admit that I'm guilty of having ‘blush blindness’. For the uninitiated, it's the social media term for gradually becoming desensitised to how much of your best blusher you're applying.

An easy blusher mistake to make, I’ve come to realise that less is more – especially during the warmer months. Heavy cream and powder combinations can quickly start to look obvious in the heat, while lighter textures tend to melt into the skin instead of sitting on top of it. Add in a little natural warmth from the sunshine, and you simply don't need as much product to achieve that fresh, healthy look.

That's exactly why I've fallen for Refy's Water Blush. The water-based formula is incredibly lightweight, delivering a sheer watercolour flush that looks as though it's coming from within the skin. It never goes patchy or cakey, even on hot days, and the addition of popular skincare ingredients is an added bonus.

Why the Refy Water Blush deserves a spot in your summer beauty bag

Lighter than any liquid blush I've tried – and admittedly, I've tried a fair few – the water-based formula feels almost weightless on the skin while still delivering an impressive amount of pigment. Apricot, a soft peachy coral, has become my go-to shade, although it's also available in Lychee (pink) and Acai (deep berry).

What impressed me most wasn't the finish or even the colour selection – it was how effortless it is to apply. You don't need to spend ages buffing or blending; the brush seems to pick up exactly the right amount of product and diffuses it evenly across the cheeks. One layer creates a subtle, healthy flush, while a second gives you that “I've just come back from a brisk walk” glow without looking too much.

Alongside its lightweight, water-based texture, the formula contains hydrating ceramides and refreshing green tea water, making it a lovely option if you tend to get dehydrated skin in the heat. Even after several hours spent outside in the warm weather, it never looks patchy or cakey – exactly what I want from a summer blusher.

Founded by influencer Jess Hunt and beauty entrepreneur Jenna Meek, Refy first landed on the beauty scene in 2020 with Brow Sculpt – a product that quickly achieved cult status after going viral on social media. While the brand initially built its reputation on fluffy, brushed-up brows, it's since expanded into complexion products – the latest being Water Blush.

Part of the new Watercolour collection, the blush launched alongside Water Bronzer and the Duo Brush 2.0 – a dual-ended brush designed with one side for bronzer and the other for blush. "Watercolour came from wanting make-up to feel lighter, more intuitive and easier to wear," say Hunt and Meek. "We wanted to create something that fits around how you live, not something you have to plan or perfect."

Drawing inspiration from Korean cushion compacts, the packaging also makes it refreshingly foolproof. Rather than squeezing out too much product from a tube or bottle, you simply press your brush into the cushion before sweeping it over the cheeks.

While I don't usually advocate buying a new makeup brush for the sake of it (your existing blush brush will probably do the job just fine), I have to admit the Duo Brush 2.0 is exceptionally good. Its fluffy bristles diffuse the pigment beautifully, making it even harder to overapply.

Forget high-maintenance brights; Kylie Minogue's natural holiday pedicure is the relaxed look that’ll go with everything in your suitcase.

While the 2026 nail trends have ushered in an array of vibrant and timeless pedicure colours - from pops of watermelon-pink to the popular 'Picante' pedicure - we're instead planning to follow Kylie Minogue's lead and go back to basics for our summer pedicure. After all, a statement look is all well and good until you want to wear an equally bold outfit or just tire of the colour but find yourself a flight away from your local nail salon or at-home polish kit and thus, can't change it.

Minogue's own subtle, holiday pedicure solves that particular issue, offering something of a clean, blank canvas that will work with every sandal, style and setting, whilst still delivering a chic and trendy look.

If you've been keeping up with this year's mani/pedi trends, you'll know that ultra-subtle finishes and a focus on nail health have been key themes. As a result, we've seen a rise in demand for strengthening sheer polishes, as well as condition-boosting treatments like the Japanese pedicure (and, of course, the manicure iteration too), for that matter. The latter features no polish, just the layering of nourishing ingredients and buffing, to reveal a glossy, au naturel shine.

This is exactly the sort of look the pop icon was sporting whilst on vacation, paired with some bright red flip-flops. The singer took to Instagram to share a carousel of snaps from her sunny getaway, and throughout, you could see her styling a very minimal pedicure with jeans and various accessories and tops. From what we can tell, she either had completely bare toes or was wearing a sheer pink polish, or just a clear top coat for a fresh but versatile effect.

Indeed, the beauty of a very subtle and natural-looking pedicure is that not only will it go with everything, from a summery dress to ripped blue jeans - as Minogue proves - but it's also a very forgiving and low-maintenance option.

Regrowth, for instance, will not look as obvious with a clear or tinted shade as it would with a burgundy pedicure, and the same goes for any chips or polish peeling. Plus, with understated nails becoming increasingly popular, just zhushing up your natural toes with a nail buffer or a quick clear coat will afford you a very trendy look - what's not to love?

Warm weather is the ultimate test for your makeup routine. We all want a base that can go the distance – from our morning coffee to evening drinks – without so much as a touch-up in between.

The trouble is that makeup and heat have never been natural bedfellows. It's a familiar scene: a full face applied with care at 8 am, only for it to have all but disappeared by lunchtime. The issue is we sweat more and produce more oil when temperatures climb, while heat itself softens the waxes and oils that bind our favourite formulas, causing them to slip and slide throughout the day.

The result is a very particular set of summer dramas: mascara that migrates beneath the lower lash line, SPF that disrupts a painstakingly blended base, bronzer that veers into disco-ball territory rather than a believable sun-kissed glow. Here, professional makeup artist Caroline Barnes shares her top expert tips that will help your makeup withstand the warm weather without a midday meltdown.

Tip 1: Use a tubing mascara

If your mascara has been sliding south by lunchtime, you're not alone. “Are you struggling with mascara?” says Barnes. “Maybe it’s diluting underneath your eyes in these hot, steamy days, but then when you put your best waterproof mascara on, you don't get the same va va voom that your normal mascara gives you.”

Her fix isn't a waterproof formula at all, but rather a tubing mascara. Instead of coating the lashes in a pigment that can smudge and transfer in the heat, tubing formulas wrap each lash in a flexible little “tube” of colour that holds firm through sweat and humidity. Then at the end of the day, it slides off intact with warm water alone.

“My favourite tubing mascara is RUM, actually designed by beauty experts in the industry (Sali Hughes, Sam Jones and Jo Jones) – they know what they're talking about when it comes to mascara, and the brush is brilliant.” The formula's appeal for summer is how it comes away. “This comes off with warm water, so no oils on your skin can dilute it. It will stay put, and your lashes will look lovely until you remove them purely with water.”

Tip 2: Invest in a sunscreen spray

We've all been there: you’re out for lunch when you suddenly remember you didn't top up your SPF before you left the house. Barnes' solution is to keep a mist-on facial sunscreen in your bag for exactly this moment. “How about that drama when you're sitting having a lovely glass of rosé with your friend for lunch, and you can feel that sun beating down, and you haven't put your SPF on?” she says. “Just have a spray SPF that can literally go on over your makeup.”

Her pick is the Bondi Sands mist. “It's really, really lovely and light, so it doesn't disrupt any of the hard work you did when you put your makeup on, but it protects your skin,” she explains. Keep it in your handbag, she says, and reapplying becomes second nature rather than an afterthought. “If you just leave it in your bag, you will always have that everyday protection.”

Tip 3: Swap powder bronzer for cream

“One of my makeup bugbears, I suppose I'll call it that, is powdery, very glittery bronzers in the summer,” she says. During the warmer months, the sun sits much higher in the sky, so shimmer that looks pretty in low winter light can suddenly appear harsh and overly obvious. “These kinds of products are great in the winter when the light is low, and we need to elevate that light from our face, but not necessarily in the summer.”

Her alternative is to use your best cream bronzer with zero shimmer. “That's why I would suggest Vieve, or any cream bronzer without any kind of sparkle,” she says. “It just gives you a very natural and real sun-kissed finish to your skin without registering like makeup.”

And if you're fair-skinned and a traditional bronzer feels too deep, reach for a cream blush instead. “If you haven't got warm, tanned skin that would actually work with a bronzer, use a lovely cream blush that's got a little bit of pink in it,” Barnes advises. She's currently loving Violette's new Plume Blush in Latte Praline. “It's really beautiful against pale skin, and it will just elevate your skin, giving it that sun-kissed look in a natural way.”

As a beauty team, we love a bargain, but every now and then a premium formula surprises us and proves itself worthy of its price tag - these 12 luxury Space NK buys have done just that.

While there are plenty of incredible under-£10 beauty buys available, there are some areas of your routine where you can justify spending a little more. A new long-lasting perfume, for instance, or a highly-reviewed foundation that doesn't budge or settle in fine lines. We, ourselves, have encountered a few luxury formulas that are as effective as you'd hope for their premium cost. Good news for our skin, bad news for our purses. That said, spending a little more can, in the long run, actually end up saving you money or at least feel worth it for their noticeable results.

As for where to shop these deserving buys, Space NK is one of our go-to retailers as it stocks everything from Korean skincare to iconic names like Dr Dennis Gross and Hourglass, who are among the few we'll actually invest in. So much so that if we run out, or better yet, win a basket dash, we'll always make a beeline for them.

The 12 luxury Space NK buys that never disappoint and are worth every penny

In most cases, it's a myth that quality must equal expense, though there are some products out there that you won't regret splurging on. Home to some of our favourite under-£30 buys as well as those we consider to be a treat and a good investment, Space NK definitely warrants a mooch around - be it in-store or online.

And in case you need some recommendations, our team have shared the premium products and brands that are truly worth your time and money.

Fiona's luxury picks

Aleesha's luxury buys

Sennen's Luxury buys

Naomi's luxury picks

Lines and wrinkles are all part of the privilege that is getting older. And while many of us enjoy twinkly crinkles around the eyes and well-earned smile lines from years of laughter, there's arguably a bit less to love about vertical lip lines.

If you've noticed your lips losing definition, or creasing due to natural collagen loss and repeated movements (particularly if you are a smoker, or routinely drink through straws), there are things you can do - and they don't have to be as invasive as semi-permanent lip blush treatments, or injectable filler.

We've just learned a genius trick using an £18 lip stain that, according to the beauty fan who tipped us off, "helps to blur the appearance of the fine lines I've developed as I've got older, while making my lips look amazing." We're sold already.

If you're unfamiliar with all-day lip stains, these products are thick gels that you paint onto the lips, leave to set, then peel away to reveal the true colour of the stain - which then sticks around all day long, no matter what you eat, drink or do.

As our team's test of Sacheau Lip Liner Stain revealed, these products have incredible staying power as an all-day lip colour, but we've never heard of them being used in this way before.

Hayley, 52, shared with us that by overlining her lips ever so slightly with Wonderskin Wonderblading All Day Lip Stain, the long-lasting tint left behind obscured any lines around her mouth.

“This lip stain in the shade Bella keeps the colour on all day and helps to blur the appearance of the fine lines I've developed as I've got older, while making my lips look amazing with its gorgeous colour”, she explains. And we think the pictures really speak for themselves.

While overlining the lips with a lip liner to create definition and soften lines is a classic makeup artist technique, doing so with an all-day lip stain ensures that the blurring effect truly lasts the day - and looks so natural and diffused.

You will need a steady hand to apply the liner neatly just over the lips' natural perimeter, as once this stain sets, it really, truly sets on. If you prefer, you could use a very fine liner brush for extra precision.

It's also worth noting that, compared with normal lipsticks and glosses, these types of stains have about 100 times the staying power (which truly is a game-changer) but do sacrifice some moisture in the process. It's definitely worth having a lip balm in your bag to keep hydration and comfort levels topped up.

There's also no denying that neatly applying this stain and overlining your lips takes a little bit more skill and time than a slick of long lasting lipstick. But, you will get that time back tenfold in flattering, blurring properties and never having to reapply. It feels like a fair deal to us!

If you've had your eye on the beauty industry recently, you'll know that Korean K-beauty has grown tenfold in popularity thanks to its gentle yet effective glass-skin formulas. However, Japanese J-beauty's scientific technology beauty buys are not to be overlooked – here's why.

Making home to the likes of the best face moisturisers and some of the best facial sunscreens, Japanese skincare prioritises minimalist routines of science-backed formulas that focus on the long-term health of your skin. Much like Korean skincare buys, J-beauty is the definition of innovation with its use of advanced technologies - but in contrast to the 'more is more' K-beauty ethos, J-Beauty is centred around simple regimens and calming ingredients, making it an ideal choice for mature skin that's experiencing hormonal changes.

If you want to incorporate some Japanese beauty buys into your daily routine, you've come to the right place. Fortunately for you, we don't like to gatekeep beauty information around here. In fact, we've put together a list of 9 J-beauty products that we think are worth knowing about...

9 Japanese beauty buys to add to your shopping basket

From some familiar brands to others that you'll be introduced to for the very first time, we've curated a one-stop-shop guide to shopping J-beauty. Whether you're seeking out one of the best cleansers for hydrating the skin or luxurious serums that target visible signs of ageing, these are the formulas that we think are worth knowing about.

What is J-beauty?

If you haven't already heard of J-beauty, this term is used to describe Japanese beauty. "J-beauty is built around a preventative, proactive, and holistic approach to skincare. Rather than focusing on correcting problems once they appear, it aims to prepare and maintain healthy, balanced skin over the long term," says Nathalie Broussard, Scientific Communication Director at Shiseido.

As further explained by Dr Catharine Denning, skin expert and aesthetician for Curél: "J beauty tends to be centred around intentional, ritualistic, uncomplicated but effective skincare. It generally maintains the idea that skin isn't there to be fixed but maintained day to day with kindness and care."

How do J-beauty formulas typically differ to K-beauty formulas?

While J-beauty refers to beauty buys from Japan, you might be able to already guess that K-beauty involves formulas straight from Korea. However, other than location, there are a few key aspects that differentiate the products from each other.

As Denning explains: "J beauty focuses on minimalism, 'less but better, ' simple, barrier-respecting ingredients with a focus on the long-term, ritualistic, slow beauty. Whereas K beauty is driven by maximalism, multi-step layering (the famous 10-step routine), uses more trend-driven, novel ingredients (actives, snail mucin, Centella), it's fast-moving with new ingredients and packaging appearing every day and is innovation-heavy by comparison."

In agreement, Broussard adds: "J-Beauty stands out more for its commitment to delivering effectiveness without excess, with a more limited number of steps using products that can be multifunctional and based on thorough scientific and dermatological research. Thoughtful products are developed with a sustainable approach to provide a more fundamental and long-lasting effect on the skin’s condition, not just an artificial one."

What are popular J-beauty ingredients?

There are a few notable ingredients that are popularly used within J-beauty formulas and are worth keeping an eye out for. Broussard says: "J-beauty often combines traditional Japanese ingredients with advanced scientific innovation. The use of ingredients inspired by ancestral traditions with proven quality can be perfectly combined with more contemporary and high-tech ingredients to ensure maximum effectiveness."

As for the specific ingredients worth noting down, Denning advises: "J beauty tends to be centred around barrier protection and function, and so use ceramides, glycerine and anti-inflammatory ingredients that protect the skin's microbiome, such as fermented rice (also high in ceramides) or natural anti-inflammatory ingredients."

Is J-beauty good for mature skin?

Making home to innovative, science-backed formulas, it's fairly common for those with mature skin to incorporate J-beauty products into their skincare routine. Denning notes: "Mature skin tends to need more hydration and lipids, and with age, increased inflammation needs addressing. J-beauty's focus on barrier protection with ceramides and repair as well as gentle calming ingredients means that all of these concerns are addressed as standard."

Broussard adds: "J-beauty's emphasis on prevention, rather than correction, as well as long-term skin health, makes it particularly relevant for mature skin concerns."

World Duty Free is widely known for being the home of many money-saving deals, thanks to the products being exempt from local and national taxes.

This includes the best perfumes for women, best face moisturisers and best hyaluronic acid serums from some of the most recognisable beauty brands on the market. Because of this, many shoppers will purposely wait until they're jetting away to stock up on some of their favourite beauty buys.

But, beauty bargain hunter that I am, I was strolling through the airport with my friend when I realised that you can snap up a lot of the products for cheaper elsewhere. So, I'm here to do my duty by sharing the even better deals I've spotted on some of Duty Free's most popular buys, such as Elemis Marine Cream and YSL's Libre Eau de Parfum.

12 beauty buys with even better discounts than World Duty Free

As a Beauty Shopping Writer, it's my job to scroll through websites every day to scout out the very best money-saving deals. Which, subsequently, means I'm very clued up on how, when and where to find unmissable savings.

So, instead of clocking out of work and putting my feet up at the airport, I decided to put my beauty bargain-hunting hat on and uncover the beauty buys you can snap up for even cheaper than Duty Free...

When you think of ultra-chic celebs, Sienna Miller is surely one of the first to spring to mind.

Needless to say, we’re always taking inspiration from Sienna Miller’s best beauty looks or any products she confirms she uses in her day-to-day routine. If you’re the same, you’ll be pleased to hear that the star shared some of her best beauty advice and product recommendations, including one particularly purse-friendly pick.

Asked what she thought the greatest drugstore product for under £10 was, she told Who What Wear, “The Dr.PAWPAW lip balm is a great one.” Available in both clear and tinted versions, the affordable buy is priced at less than a fiver, but you can currently pick it up at Amazon for a mere £3.50

Said balm is one of those beauty products that has achieved cult status. So, what makes it so great? Part of its brilliance and appeal is down to the multipurpose formula. Blending pawpaw fruit extract, olive and castor oils and soothing Aloe vera, this isn’t only one of the best lip balms – it can be used on dry cuticles, to smooth flyaways and even groom your brows.

As well as being loved by Sienna, it’s a favourite among the woman&home beauty team, including Digital Beauty Writer Sennen Prickett. ‘"While Dr.PAWPAW’s Original Balm serves as a stellar lip balm, working to deeply hydrate, soothe and restore my dry, chapped lips, I also love how it can be used in a multitude of other ways in my routine, too,” she says.

“Similar to Sienna Miller’s other favourite, Eight Hour Cream, I’ve also used this formula to tame stray hairs, nourish my cuticles and moisturise dry heels. Considering its affordable price tag, I think it’s a no-brainer to invest in one of these little yellow tubes – a true handbag essential."

You can shop a few more of Sienna’s beauty go-tos below.

The difference between a streaky, patchy tan and seamless sunkissed skin comes down to proper planning, and that includes strategising your hair removal schedule.

If you prefer to go au natural, then don’t worry. Body hair won’t affect the outcome of your tan so long as you buff everything in thoroughly with a tanning mitt. If you’re a shaver, however, when you bust out your best razor really matters. You could have the best self tan, but if you’re shaving your legs at the wrong time, you could end up with brown pinpricks and an uneven finish.

To settle the debate, we asked James Read, Tanning Expert and Founder of Self Glow, for his ultimate tanning timeline to ensure smooth application and a flawless glow.

When should you shave before applying fake tan?

Any form of hair removal, whether waxing vs shaving, should ideally be done before tanning. Shaving 24 hours prior is the magic formula for James, who has tanned the likes of Kate Moss and Rosie Huntington-Whiteley. “It allows your tan to apply more evenly,” he says.

This window gives your pores a chance to shrink back so you’ll avoid those pesky little brown dots where the tan has settled in the follicles. If you are prone to ‘strawberry legs’ when tanning, blast your skin with cold water or run an ice cube over the area to help close pores after shaving.

As for waxing and epilating, you’ll need to plan even further in advance. “Usually 48 hours before,” advises James. “This will allow any redness or irritation to go down.”

Can you shave after tanning?

Ideally not, since a wet shave will strip the tan. James has a workaround, though. “If you do need to shave, use an electric body shaver as this will only remove the top layer of hair, rather than stripping your tan.”

If a lady shaver or bikini trimmer isn’t an option, there are a few things you can do to limit uneven self-tan removal. First, always wait until the tan has fully developed and the guide colour rinsed off. 24 hours should give enough time for the colour to have settled on your skin. Use a shaving gel to provide a moisturising buffer between your skin and the blades. A sharp razor used with light, gentle strokes will help to minimise irritation and avoid scraping off the tan.

How can I make my tan last longer?

According to James, the single most important thing you can do to improve the longevity of your tan is to moisturise daily. Once your tan has developed, apply your best body moisturiser every day from top to toe.

The outlook on body hair has certainly changed in recent years, and yet, the global hair removal market was worth more than $29 billion in 2025, proof that many of us are still hellbent on removing every last trace of it.

Since my teens, I’ve used everything from bleach, stinky depilatory creams and the best razors, to more painful options promising longer-lasting results - epilators, roll-on electric waxers, and in-clinic laser hair removal. Without a doubt, the latter has been the most successful, but salon appointments add up and demand time and dedication.

So when I found out Tria was launching a brand new upgraded version of their laser hair removal device, promising long-term hair reduction from the comfort and privacy of your own home, the prude in me was ecstatic.

At almost £600, it’s not cheap, but this is clinic-grade laser tech. The before and after images online are compelling, but would it work for this dark-haired girl? After testing it for the last two months, this Tria 4X Hair Removal Laser review will cover the pros, cons and those all-important results.

Our Beauty Editor’s Tria 4X Hair Removal Laser review, with before and after pictures

On first impression, this second generation of the Tria 4X Hair Removal Laser looks a lot more professional than its predecessor, which was white and a bit plastic-y. This looks slicker with a gunmetal makeover and a thicker, sturdier shell.

According to Tria, this helps to improve thermal performance, but it also helps to give the impression that this is a serious tool that will yield real results. It’s been upgraded with an LCD, which shows the battery life, the laser levels from 1-5, and a running count of laser pulses for each session.

In the box you’ll find refreshingly little - a charging cable, various plug adaptors, and some instructions, tucked neatly beneath the device. After charging, the device remains in locked mode until the sensor approves your skin tone for use. You switch it on and hold the skin sensor, located on the base of the device, against your skin. If your skin tone is compatible, the device will unlock with a beep, and you’re good to go.

How does the Tria 4X Hair Removal Laser work?

There are a lot of hair removal devices on the market, but the Tria 4X Hair Removal Laser operates at the same 810nm wavelength used in clinics. This precision diode laser technology should not be confused with IPL tools (intense pulse light), which are not as effective as laser.

In fact, the Tria laser delivers up to 233 per cent more power than some leading IPL devices, owing to deeper penetration and targeted energy delivery, so if you’re weighing up the two, I’d put my money into the laser.

The Tria 4X Hair Removal Laser targets the pigment in your hair. This melanin absorbs the laser energy and converts it to heat in the follicle to destroy the root. That’s why the most successful combination for effective treatment is lighter skin with dark hair. The device picks up the contrast more easily.

It’s also why the device is not safe on darker skin tones and is ineffective on lighter hair shades. For medium brown, dark brown and black skin tones, it’s best to visit a professional who can use specific wavelengths to safely and effectively target hairs.

As the root is destroyed, hair regrowth becomes finer and lighter. With continued treatment, you can expect to see fewer hairs reappearing, and then once the hair follicle has been deactivated, hair will not grow back at all.

How to use the Tria 4X Hair Removal Laser

First things first, you need to shave the area you wish to treat. Your razor is going to become your best friend during your relationship with the Tria 4X Hair Removal Laser. Waxing, epilating and any other treatments that drag the root kicking and screaming from its follicle will hinder the results. The laser needs the root to be in tact in order to disable it.

Skin should be clean and dry, then it’s time to get zapping. It really couldn’t be easier to use. Select your treatment level from one to five, using the highest setting you can tolerate. Obviously pain is subjective, but I’ve found it pinchy at worst with no subsequent redness, and that’s using the highest setting. However, Tria does recommend applying the Phytograph Hydrating Calm Soothing Gel before using the device to help minimise discomfort.

Once the level is set, hold the device against your skin making sure the treatment window is pressed flat until you hear two beeps - that means the pulse has worked and you can move on to the next spot.

Laser hair removal on the face is quick - I’ve found I can do my upper lip in about 60 seconds. Elsewhere, armpits have taken less than five minutes. But because of the small treatment tip, larger areas like the legs will take much longer. Tria recommends repeating the treatment every two weeks for up to three months.

Tria 4X Hair Removal Laser: my verdict

After about two months, and three treatments on my upper lip, there has been headway. I didn’t notice much change after the first session, but now I can definitely see that the hair is finer, patchier, and not quite so dark. It’s by no means bald, but I’m sufficiently buoyed by the results that I feel compelled to carry on for the six session minimum Tria recommends.

It's a big outlay for the device, and certainly in-clinic laser hair removal treatments have become more affordable over the last few years. But I really appreciate that I can use the Tria whenever, wherever. I don’t have to schlep to the clinic, or bear the embarrassment of de-robing in front of a stranger, depending on where you’re choosing to de-fuzz. For ease of use and convenience, this is a fantastic option for long-term hair reduction.

We might be in the height of a heatwave, but here on the woman&home beauty team, we're talking about all things Christmas – yes, you heard us right.

We're still over four months away from the start of December, but Liberty has already opened the waitlist for their coveted beauty advent calendar that sells out every year, thanks to being stashed full of the best face moisturisers and best eye creams.

Returning for its 12th year, this calendar marks the best one yet as it's packed full of 29 luxury beauty buys that are collectively worth more than ever before (over £1300). Plus, we have all the intel on how to pre-order the 2026 edition earlier than its official September launch...

What's inside the Liberty Beauty Advent Calendar 2026?

Ok, take it as your official spoiler warning. If you don't want to know the contents of the 2026 Liberty Beauty Advent Calendar, look away now.

This year's selection includes a plethora of top-shelf products across skincare, haircare, makeup, bodycare and fragrance. We're talking an assortment of the best perfumes for women, a luxurious brightening serum and one of the best mascaras for short lashes – plus, much, much more.

• LBTY Tana Meadow Eau de Parfum 8ml - Full Size
• Sunday Riley C.E.O. 15% Vitamin C Brightening Serum 30ml - Full Size
• Davines OI Shampoo 90ml - Full Size
• Matière Première Crystal Saffron Eau de Parfum 6ml - Full Size
• Lisa Eldridge Baume Embrace Melting Lip Colour in 'Épanoui' - Full Size
• Zelens Emulsion D Fortifying Moisturiser 50ml - Full Size
• Innersense Repair Mask 59.1ml - Full Size
• Joonbyrd Violet Haze Polishing Body Scrub 30ml - Full Size
• MZ Skin Intensive Bio-Placenta Eye Cream 15ml - Full Size
• Trinny London Eye2Eye in 'Joy' or 'Magician' 4g - Full Size
• ILIA Beauty Limitless Lash Mascara in 'After Midnight' 8g - Full Size
• Reome Active Recovery Broth 15ml - Full Size
• Maria Nila Gloss Coat 50ml - Full Size
• U Beauty Resurfacing Compound 15ml - Full Size
• Verden Nocturne Magnesium Body Spray 60ml - Full Size
• Grown Alchemist Regenerating Hand Cream 40ml - Full Size
• Violette_FR Lip Nectar in 'Bêtise' 3.5g - Full Size
• Augustinus Bader The Face Oil 10ml - Full Size
• Sisley Paris Sisleÿa Essential Skin Care Lotion 100ml - Full Size
• Votary Luminous Skin Liquid 30ml - Full Size
• Vyrao Ever 11 Eau de Parfum 10ml - Full Size
• Charlotte Mensah Manketti Oil Finishing Mist 30ml
• Ex Nihilo Blue Talisman Extrait 7.5ml
• Darling Multi-Biotics Hydrating & Balancing Body Lotion 30ml
• Fugazzi Angel Dust Extrait 15ml
• Bibbi Parfum Vanilla Factory Eau de Parfum 10ml
• Jones Road Mini Miracle Balm 8.5g in 'Au Naturel', 'Tawny', 'Magic Hour', 'Sunkissed', 'Happy Hour', 'Bronze', 'Dusty Rose' or 'Miami Beach'
• Escentric Molecules Molecule 01 10ml
• D.S. & Durga Debaser Eau de Parfum 7.5ml
• Liberty Liberty Print Large Drawstring Bag in 'Festive Plume'

When does the Liberty Beauty Advent Calendar 2026 go on sale?

General sale for the Liberty Beauty Advent Calendar 2026 is set to take place on Wednesday 2nd September. However, the waitlist has now opened, meaning you can sign up to be the first to find out when this year's edition arrives.

That said, Liberty Beauty Drop subscribers will be able to pre-order the calendar until 20th August. They will also get early access to purchase the calendar on Tuesday 1st September, as well as an exclusive £25 saving. A subscription will set you back £25 a month, but you get £20 store credit every month and four seasonal beauty boxes throughout the year.

How to shop the Liberty Beauty Advent Calendar 2026

If you're looking to get your hands on this year's Liberty Beauty Advent Calendar, you'll be able to purchase it online via Liberty's website or by visiting the landmark store on Regent Street, London.

Does the Liberty Beauty Advent Calendar sell out?

The Liberty calendar is one of the most in-demand beauty advent calendars on the market, all thanks to the big name luxury brands inside. Its high-value contents have a combined retail price that is four and a half times higher than the calendar's actual price tag.

All of which is why this specific advent calendar is always quick to fly off the shelves. From previous experience covering beauty advent calendars, we're predicting that this year's offering won't be sticking around for very long. In fact, last year's pre-orders broke records by selling two calendars every 45 seconds. So, we'd recommend signing up to the waitlist to avoid missing out.

Our team's picks from the Liberty Advent Calendar 2026

Housing an impressive lineup of luxury beauty buys, it's no surprise that this advent calendar makes home to some of our team's favourite formulas. From a high-end nourishing face oil to a multi-tasking balm that adds a radiant flush of colour to the cheeks, here's our team's top picks from the 2026 calendar...

While the summer is when our feet tend to get the most airtime, foot care isn't seasonal. Consistent maintenance is key to healthy and happy-looking toes, and these elegant pedicure colours, in particular, never fail to deliver a mature and flattering look.

"As we age, our nails and feet naturally go through changes," explains Roxanne Lanthier, Senior Aesthetician at Young LDN, "so a pedicure should focus on both appearance and long-term nail and skin health." She adds that your nails may become thicker, more brittle or develop ridges, while the skin on the feet can become drier due to reduced oil production. A pedicure, therefore, is a great way to keep your feet in tip-top condition; that said, with so many pedicure trends afoot (pun intended), it can be a little overwhelming deciding on a shade that is simultaneously flattering and timeless - especially if you're keen to keep up a good at-home routine or appointment schedule.

The expert advice? Well, for starters, whatever shade makes you feel the most confident, though there are a few universally elegant hues that always surpass the seasonal trends - these six, especially.

Flattering and timeless pedicure shades to request, per the experts

When it comes to your choice of pedicure colour, there is no right or wrong. You can go bright, like summer's popular 'Picante' pedicure, or more subtle and retro with a French pedicure. The key is finding a colour or design that you love and find easy to wear.

"The best shade is always the one that makes someone feel the most confident, regardless of age," notes Lanthier. "Rather than following rules about what people should wear, we encourage clients to choose colours that complement their personal style and skin tone."

That said, there are some timeless pedicure colours that, as Lanthier puts it, "look elegant season after season rather than following trends."

As for what shades to choose, "Soft nude shades, sheer pinks, creamy beiges and classic reds have remained favourites for decades because they complement a wide range of skin tones and work equally well with sandals, trainers or evening shoes," explains Lanthier.

"Deep burgundy, rich berry and dark cherry shades also feel sophisticated, particularly during the colder months, while crisp white or an off-white cream has become a modern classic for summer holidays thanks to its clean, fresh appearance."

Our pedicure essentials

If you want to give your feet and toes a little zhush at home, we recommend investing in a good quality foot file, a hydrating foot cream and clear top coat - to layer over your favourite essie nail polishes and so on.

1. Soft nudes

As mentioned, warm nudes and subtle shades are always a safe and chic choice. "Softer neutral shades remain consistently popular because they offer a polished, elegant finish and suit every occasion," says Lanthier.

2. Milky pinks & blush tones

Equally, Lanthier says milky pinks and blush tones are also very versatile and possess 'a timeless quality.' These milky and sheer nail polishes subtly elevate and enhance, rather than stealing focus - ideal if you're looking for a pedicure that complements all your footwear and just looks clean.

3. Classic reds

" A rich blue-red or deep cherry shade can feel sophisticated and flattering throughout the year, while muted berry tones offer a softer alternative."

4. Cream and crisp white

White pedicures are as classic as they come, especially among those seeking a minimalistic look or a reliably luxe-looking and versatile vacation shade.

"Crisp white or an off-white cream has become a modern classic for summer holidays thanks to its clean, fresh appearance."

5. Burgundy

Burgundy pedicures, while proving especially popular this year, are also very classic, year-round, but Lanthier notes that clients do tend to gravitate towards them, along with plum and chocolate tones, in the autumn/winter.

That said, deep burgundy and dark cherry shades will always feel sophisticated, no matter the season.

6. Summer brights

For a summer pedicure that feels elegant and timeless, Lanthier says "coral, soft peach, and watermelon shades bring warmth to the feet without feeling overly bright," and are popular throughout the season. Watermelon nails also transition perfectly into a bright red for autumn too.

Redness is one of the most common skin concerns women face in midlife – skin thins, collagen dips and the blood vessels beneath the surface become increasingly visible. Add years of sun exposure and the effects of ‘inflammageing’ – the low-grade inflammation associated with ageing – and it's little wonder so many of us are chasing a more even-looking complexion.

The textbook fix is a green colour corrector. Sitting opposite red on the colour wheel, green pigments cancel out rosiness before foundation goes on. But celebrity makeup artist Caroline Barnes (whose client roster includes Pixie Lott, Erin Doherty and Lisa Snowdon) skips the primer step entirely. Her product of choice? One of the best self-tans for the face.

While this may seem an unusual choice, Barnes exclusively explained the colour theory behind it all it makes so much sense.

The self-tan spray Caroline Barnes swears by for disguising redness

“As we get older, you might find that you get a lot more redness in your complexion; maybe you're suffering from rosacea, pimples or whatever the redness may come from. A really good way to even out your complexion is to use something like this from James Read – a facial spray tan,” she tells us.

We’ve come across colour-correcting powders (Laura Mercier’s mint powder springs to mind) and colour-correcting creams, but a self-tan that disguises ruddy cheeks? That’s a first. Yet there’s logic behind the advice – many self-tans develop into golden or olive tones that can counteract the appearance of redness and reduce the contrast between flushed areas and the rest of the face.

“Adding a little bit of warmth to your complexion where your skin tone is irregular minimises and neutralises the redness so that when you put your foundation on, you'll find that your neck and your chest are all one tone. It therefore looks much more natural because everything is toned together,” explains Barnes.

Her product of choice is Self Glow by James Read Golden Days Milky Tan Toner - although there are so many tanning mists on the market, we've included a few of our other favourites here, too.

With that said, we're not surprised Barnes is a fan of Golden Days. The Korean beauty-inspired mist combines a gradual self-tanner with skincare ingredients including PDRN and hyaluronic acid, delivering a believable faux glow while helping to keep skin calm and hydrated.

“It is probably the most natural spray tan I've ever used. I'm so courageous about using it – I'll just spray it straight onto my face. It's got Korean skincare. It contains PDRN, which is a very popular skincare ingredient from Korea,” she adds.

For your summeriest manicure yet, these bright and shimmering sunshine nails encapsulate every radiant moment - from reflections on swimming pools to breathtaking sunsets over the ocean.

While natural, barely-there nails were threatening to dominate summer's array of 2026 nail trends, we're pleased to report that all the classic brights are back - along with a few extra sunny shades. So sunny, in infact, that we've curated a little collection of these colours, designs and finishes because of how well they capture hazy summer days and glistening, sun-soaked views. After all, what could be more fitting for the season than a manicure that mirrors the sunny scenes of your upcoming beach holiday?

So, if you're stuck for your July and August nails, here's why sunshine nails are the genre you should consider, especially where these 10 luminous looks are concerned.

10 sunshine nails that capture the warmth and radiance of the summer season

When we think of sunshine nails, of course, classic buttery yellows come to mind, but also hazy and rich blues - the shades of a cloudless sky and tranquil sea - along with vibrant sunset hues and reflective, golden shimmers.

There's so many chic and summery options at your fingertips, but if you need a little inspiration, we've found 10 manicures that really nail the sunny assignment.

Our sunshine nail polish picks

For the perfect sunshine manicure at home, a yellow or bright orange will never fail you, especially if you're heading on holiday and want a reliable, summery look. Equally, a bright pink or shimmery shade will also afford a very stylish look, especially if you're a fan of sunset nails and sparkling, cocktail-inspired spritz nails, which also feel very apt for this season.

1. Sunshine nails

Nothing says summer quite like a pop of buttery, sunny yellow. This shade can be worn alone for an easy, joyful look or layered underneath pearly chromes and polka dots. It's also a particularly lovely shade to pair with short nails, as the trimmed style will help to offset the brightness, making it feel more wearable.

2. Sunny sky nails

This shade reminds us instantly of clear, summery skies and will easily deliver a very stylish manicure for your next sunny escape.

3. Shimmery pool-water nails

For a more modern and playful twist on this look, opt for an iridescent polish or chrome finish. This effect is so reminiscent of light reflecting off a swimming pool's surface, which we just love and feel really captures this sunshine nail concept.

4. Golden hour nails

This chrome manicure just screams 'golden hour' to us, and what could be more chic for your next set of summer nails?

5. Sunny sea nails

This colour instantly reminds us of oceans glistening under the afternoon sun. It's simply perfect for a summery manicure - and a pedicure too, we might add.

6. Sunny French tips

For a more subtle nod to sunshine, a yellow French tip is a lovely choice and again, suits short nails just as well as it would longer almond nails.

7. Sunset ombre nails

Sunset nails are a no-brainer for this time of year, especially if you're already a fan of ombre nails in general. We just love this radiant orange, yellow and pink combination.

8. Radiant reflection nails

This shimmery look also captures this idea of 'sunshine nails' perfectly and is so easy to recreate at home with a sparkly nail polish - like Manucurist's Fairy shade.

9. Summer sunshine nails

If you prefer a classic colour over a shimmer, this sort of vibrant, radiant orange is a great choice and will see you through the rest of summer in style.

10. Morning sunshine nails

Delicate and buttery, this softly shimmery shade is exactly what we picture when we think of early morning sunshine.

There are a few celebrities whose every beauty recommendation has us taking notes, and one of them is, without a doubt, Jennifer Aniston. Over the years the actor has truly established a signature glam look – polished blowout, some level of a smoky eye, depending on the occasion, and healthily glowing skin.

That’s precisely why, whenever Jen An gives us any insights into the contents of her makeup bag, we’re all ears (and ready to hit add to basket). Speaking of which, we’ve just learned of a skin tint that she describes as “delicious” for a glowy and dewy finish.

At this time of year, the best tinted moisturisers and skin tints are ideal, thanks to their ability to add coverage in a lightweight, comfortable base – no heavier foundation formula required – so there’s no better time to shop them. The tint in question? U Beauty’s The Super Tinted Hydrator.

Jennifer highlighted the tint when asked about her current favourite base for a glowy red carpet look. “There’s a super tint that I love,” she said in the E! News in an interview last year. “It’s such a delicious tinted moisturiser.” (She's also reportedly a big fan of the Westman Atelier Vital Skincare Complexion Drops by her long-time MUA, Gucci Westman.)

At £98, this A-list-loved tint doesn’t come in cheap – far from it, in fact. So if you can't quite stretch to that kind of luxury budget, we’ve also pulled a few of our other favourite lightweight bases that'll give you a similar otherworldly glow.

Our top tips for applying? Either buff into skin with a medium-density brush, or use the warmth from your fingers to blend, building a layer or two for more coverage if you feel you need it.

I'll be honest, I'm normally a lightweight-foundation loyalist - I only reach for anything heavier-coverage when there's a big event on the calendar. But this heatwave has tested that routine like nothing else. Even my usual "lightweight" formulas have started to feel like too much - anything with a bit of weight to it shifts by lunchtime, sits in the heat rather than on top of it, and by 4pm I'm dabbing at my T-zone wondering why I bothered in the first place.

So this summer, I've put even my best lightweight foundations to one side in favour of something that suits the weather - and my patience levels - far better: the bareMinerals Complexion Rescue Luminous Skin Tint Stick.

It takes me, quite literally, 30 seconds to apply. I swipe it across my cheeks, nose, forehead and chin, then buff it in with the bareMinerals Smoothing Face Brush - just one light swipe across the face is enough to blend it out for a flawless, natural-looking finish. There's no shade-matching palaver, and definitely no standing in front of the mirror for ten minutes in a heatwave I don't have the patience for.

What's kept me coming back to it, though, is the finish. It glides onto skin and leaves behind a light sheen of colour that evens everything out without ever looking like "foundation" - it's the kind of finish that makes you look put-together and glowy, while feeling like you're wearing next to nothing. On hot, sticky days, that's everything.

And crucially for summer: it's sweat-proof. I've worn it through some seriously warm days during the heatwave-plagued summer and it hasn't budged, slipped or gone patchy - which is more than I can say for a lot of foundations I've tried in the past.

It also sits beautifully on top of skincare. I was half-expecting some pilling, or for it to blend into my moisturiser rather than my skin, but it didn't happen once. My one tip: keep what's underneath light. I'd recommend opting for lightweight, hydrating skincare products rather than anything rich or balm-like, so the stick has a smooth, breathable base to glide over.

So if this summer has you sweating through your foundation by lunchtime, this is the one product in my routine that's actually kept up with the heat - and I don't see myself going back once the temperatures finally drop.

One of the most recognisable gradual tans on the market has just been given an upgrade to include a blend of barrier-supporting skincare ingredients – and we think it delivers even better sun-kissed results than before.

The best self-tan mousses can be both daunting to use and require a fair amount of effort, which is what makes the best gradual tan so appealing. These hybrid, multi-tasking formulas not only nourish and hydrate the skin, but also deliver an enviable sun-kissed glow.

We know people say, "If it's not broke, don't fix it," but Dove has just proved that's not the case for everything. In fact, their iconic Summer Revived Gradual Tan has been reinvented to include innovative skincare technology that helps condition the complexion for an even, streak-free tan.

Dove's Summer Revived Gradual Tan has been stocked on the drugstore shelves for over a decade now, after making its debut back in 2015. Over those 11 years, it's gone on to become an icon in the self-tanning world. However, this summer Dove decided that it was time to give the cult classic formula its own revival – enter the reformulated Summer Revived Gradual Tan Lotion.

The footnotes of this new and improved gradual tan are that it has a skincare-infused formula for both immediate and long-term hydration, as well as its loved customisable, natural-looking results. Fans of the OG formula will also instantly recognise the scent of the reformulated version as it's infused with the same sun-ripened fruity fragrance.

As a long-time fan of the original Dove gradual tan, it was only natural that our Digital Beauty Writer, Sennen Prickett, got her hands on the all-new formula. "Upon application my skin instantly felt hydrated and was left with a gorgeous, healthy shine, without looking greasy. I noticed it absorbed into the skin quicker than the old formula, drying down so fast that I got fully dressed only five minutes after applying the product – which is especially great when you're short on time," she notes.

In terms of results, Sennen says: "One layer of this gradual tan gives my complexion a subtle and natural-looking sun-kissed enhancement, without any tangerine tinge. However, it's also super buildable, meaning you can layer it to your customised desired depth of tan. As for hydration, my skin was left feeling moisturised, soft, smooth and supple to touch, which is especially needed in the warmer summer months."

If you were to ask most people to name one of the best fake tan brand off the top of their head, chances are Vita Liberata wouldn't be the first one out of the gate. And yet, scratch beneath the surface of any beauty editor's bathroom shelf, kit bag or desert island beauty list, and you'll almost always find something from this range tucked in there.

Vita Liberata has spent the best part of two decades quietly building a reputation as the tanning brand insiders actually use, rather than the one that shouts the loudest. It was behind the invention of Odour Remove™ technology, tackling that unmistakable biscuity fake tan smell years before most competitors caught on, and its formulas lean on certified organic, non-toxic ingredients rather than harsh chemicals - something that matters more the more sensitive or mature your skin becomes, so it's known as having some of the best fake tans for mature skin too. It's also the tan of choice for plenty of makeup artists working backstage and on set, which tells you a lot about how it performs under scrutiny.

So why isn't it a household name in the way St Tropez or Bondi Sands are? Possibly because Vita Liberata has built its name the old-fashioned way - one good tan at a time, passed on by word of mouth rather than through a viral moment. Below, our beauty team share the products from the range they actually reach for, and why.

Best Vita Liberata tanning products - as picked by our editors

While milky white and sheer pink polishes tend to be the go-to for a bridal nail look, Melanie C's spicy mani-pedi proves that this timeless colour really does suit every occasion.

Congratulations are indeed in order for Melanie Chisholm and her partner, Chris Dingwall, who tied the knot in an intimate ceremony on July 18th in Cumbria, England. The bride wore a very elegant slip-style dress, with lace detailing, designed by none other than her close friend and former bandmate, Victoria Beckham, which she paired with a loose, wavy hairstyle and a rather unusual nail colour.

As mentioned, we typically think of a nude or milky nail polish for a bridal manicure, but instead, Mel C opted for an equally classic but slightly more statement shade: red. And not just on her fingernails, we might add, but on her toes too.

Per the wedding pictures, taken and posted here by photographer Andrew Timms, her chosen shade was a very rich, spicy red - much like the iconic Pompier Chanel nail polish. Manicure-wise, she also paired the chic shade with what looks to be an almond shape - a classic style for a wedding.

Red is very much a timeless nail colour and goes with everything, from a simple jeans-and-t-shirt outfit to a wedding dress, as Mel C proved this weekend. Her matching pedicure also feels very apt this season, as similar spicy red looks, like the 'Picante pedicure', are also topping the list of summer 2026's pedi trends.

This actually isn't the first time we've seen the former Spice Girl sporting this coordinated mani-pedi. Earlier in July, we spotted her wearing a very similar-looking red at several events, which further speaks to its timelessness and versatility. Clearly, it's a bit of a summer signature for Mel C this year.

Even if you're not heading to a wedding, a matching, spicy-red manicure-pedicure is such a chic choice for a holiday, or just when you want to look put-together this season. Another pro in its favour, aside from having a pop icon's seal of approval, is how easy it is to recreate at home. For both your finger and toenails, all you'll need is two to three coats of your chosen red nail polish, followed by a clear coat to protect the shade and afford a glossy, professional-looking shine. We recommend the essie Gel Couture Top Coat.

One of beauty journalism's longest-standing debates - surpassing whether Botox is inherently unfeminist or if French pedicures are chic or freaky - is the spelling of zhush. Or should that be zhoosh, or jeuje?

Hershesons, when naming one of the best hair thickening products around, have gone with zhoosh, which, according to Merriam-Webster is an acceptable variation - no matter how strongly my eyes disagree (come on, surely it's zhush.)

But let's not get stuck in the dictionary for too long. Either way, this natty little verb perfectly evokes the act of magicking things up a bit, beauty-wise. An ideal title then, for an easy-peasy foam that's given my 'do a decent helping of va-va-voom volume.

Why Hershesons Zhoosh Foam is my beauty buy of the week

If you're aware of Hershesons hair products, I suspect that might be because of Almost Everything Cream - a much-feted, multi-award-winning styler beloved by Victoria Beckham, Kiera Knightley and Naomi Campbell, no less.

But this affordable, modern mousse deserves its fanfare too. If, like me, you have fine, flat hair and struggle to make any volume you create stick around, its airy feel and bulking powers will be right up your street.

This product isn't new, but I was prompted to revisit it after a fairly comprehensive hair zhush last weekend (shout out to India at Stil Salon for the creamiest, classiest colour and introducing me to the concept of 'Alice band hair' - a far lovelier term for the bold blonde face-framing streaks I'd previously dubbed grey spotlighting.)

Whenever I'm in a salon, stylists invariably put mousse in my hair before drying it - because the pros know it's the very best thing for volume - and yet I don't see many mousses launching to industry fanfare, or hear fellow journos or friends talking about them much.

I guess like it's old mucker hairspray, mousse is more of an unsung workhorse of the hair styling world. But we'd miss it if it were gone, and it's fun to see brands sexing things up with modern formulas and cute, appealing product names, however they choose to spell them. Sounds good? Great! Let's chat next Sunday.

I don’t think it’s a stretch to say that polynucleotides are one of the most talked-about – if not the most talked-about – aesthetic treatments of the last couple of years.

This rejuvenating injectable treatment is much raved about for its promising results in skin rejuvenation, particularly for the under-eyes and other areas of the face. But it can be administered to the body too, and polynucleotides for hands are gaining ground as one of the biggest 2026 aesthetic trends.

Dr Ash Soni, plastic surgeon and founder of The Soni Clinic, sums up why we’re seeing a hand tweakment boom nicely: “Hands have always been an area that people have neglected; people treated their face really well but actually neglected their hands and their neck,” he explains. Because of this gap, “The hands always ‘reveal’ the age of somebody, so I think that’s another reason why [we’re seeing] the increase in popularity of hand injectables and hand treatments.”

What happened when our contributing beauty editor tried polynucleotides for the hands

Dr Soni's words certainly ring true for me. I’m not particularly self-conscious of or bothered by it, but over the last couple of years, I kept noticing that my hands were ageing significantly faster than, well, everywhere else. I had a lot of fine lines and considerable laxity for someone in their thirties.

This isn’t particularly surprising, given that our hands get far more sun exposure year-round than most other parts of our bodies, and that I wear long-sleeved clothing most of the time. I also get manicures fairly regularly, which, even though I apply SPF beforehand, will have an impact, too.

Given the much-talked-about rejuvenating benefits of polynucleotides for areas of the face, and that I test various treatments as part of my job as a freelance beauty journalist, I wondered if I could reap those same benefits in the skin on my hands. When I met with Dr Soni last year, he confirmed that yes, I could. Here’s what happened when I tried it out…

Warning: While there's nothing graphic ahead, do be advised that there are some images of post-injection bruising ahead

First things first: What are polynucleotides?

If you’ve not yet read our previous guide to this treatment, such as our beauty editor’s under-eye polynucleotides review, the main thing to know is that these are small fragments of DNA, known for their rejuvenating benefits. As Dr Soni previously explained to woman&home: "They are biostimulators that are used to boost the collagen and elastin within the skin and will also brighten and hydrate it. They work on improving tissue regeneration, restoring skin tone and improving its elasticity."

Despite the buzzy nickname that’s been everywhere in the media, they aren’t actual salmon sperm (or trout, for that matter). It’s true that this is often the source, but here the DNA fragments are extracted from the spermatozoa, then purified, before becoming the final polynucleotide products used in aesthetic treatments. So, next time you hear salmon sperm facial…

As for their use specifically for hands, when working in this treatment area, Dr Soni actually chooses to use a combined polynucleotide and skin booster formula. “I do a lot of polynucleotides for the hands,” he explains, adding that he uses a product called Newest by Mastelli. “Newest is a combination product of a polynucleotide with a skin booster in one injectable.”

What that means for the results is, “You get that more immediate glow from the skin booster and that regenerative effect from the polynucleotides," plus "that stimulation of collagen and elastin to improve the elasticity of the hands."

You can have treatment with just polynucleotides; Dr Soni also uses Mastelli's Plinest-only product in-clinic, which he says could be used in someone who wanted more of that collagen and elastin stimulation due to its higher concentration of polynucleotides. However, "Personally, I prefer using Newest if I’m going to [treat the hands] because I love that skin booster effect as well as the regenerative effects of the polynucleotides. I treat a lot of hands with it and it just really gives a really beautiful glow, improvement of skin quality, especially as that skin starts to get thinner and a bit more crepey.” And in my case, Dr Soni's expert opinion was that Newest would get the best results.

How are polynucleotides administered to the hands?

Polynucleotides are typically administered via lots of small injections or a cannula, depending on the treatment area. For the hands, it’s the latter, primarily because you’re treating a larger surface area than, say, the under-eye area. As with facial treatments, you’ll also need a course of around three sessions, spaced out by two to four weeks, for the best results.

As is true of any aesthetic treatment, it’s important to see a practitioner who is qualified, experienced and insured, and who has medical training so that they can respond to and treat any complications. Not only does this mean you’ll get the best possible results, but to ensure that the treatment is administered as safely as possible.

Your practitioner’s knowledge of anatomy is also very important. Given that Dr Soni is a UK- and US-trained plastic and reconstructive surgeon who spent years working on hand trauma and reconstruction specifically, I knew mine were in one of the safest pairs of hands.

Do polynucleotide injections in the hands hurt?

It is annoying when people downplay how much any given treatment hurts. So: yes, this hurts a bit, but it's quick and far from excruciating. Before injecting, Dr Soni applied numbing cream and a cold compress to my hands so that the injections themselves (around 20 per hand) wouldn’t be too painful. I'd describe it as uncomfortable in the way that any injection is, plus a little sting-y when the product goes in. I consider my pain threshold to be below average, and while the process was a bit wince-inducing, the good news is that it’s over fairly quickly – barely a minute.

My hands were a little sore afterwards, but not to the extent that I couldn’t do normal activities. I also experienced some swelling, which is normal, so I kept an ice pack handy to help take this down. This subsided after a day or two. I bruise very easily, so I did have several tiny bruises dotted over my skin at the injection sites, which then took about a week to clear.

How quickly do you see results?

It takes time for the product to stimulate your collagen and elastin production, so you usually see a difference four weeks after the injections. However, results take up to three months to develop fully.

By my second session, I’d already noticed that my hands were softer. They often get dry from washing and when exposed to wintry weather, i.e. the months after my sessions. But this was rare, rather than a regularity, after the second session.

The product really took to the lower half of my hands, so Dr Soni also did a fourth small booster session closer to my knuckles to help balance out the results.

How much do polynucleotides for hands cost?

Like many aesthetic treatments, because administering polynucleotides requires seeing a qualified, experienced and insured practitioner, they are far from cheap (which makes sense when you consider the research, formulation and training behind this and similar products). You can expect to pay at least several hundred pounds per session, and you usually need three. Maintenance sessions usually needed around twice yearly if you want to maintain the results.

Are polynucleotides for hands worth it?

If you’re asking if polynucleotides for hands work as a treatment, the answer is, of course, yes for me. My hands are smoother and softer; the skin has more elasticity and ‘sags’ less, snapping back into place, and there is a clearly visible difference – I don’t need to refer back to the "before" pictures to still notice the marked difference in my hands today. An old iPhone camera can only illustrate so much, so you may have to take my word for it

The good thing about polynucleotides for this treatment is that, because they are a biostimulator, not a dermal filler (which adds volume), there’s no risk of your hands looking overfilled or puffy. I’m really glad I tried it and that I trusted Dr Soni with my hands.

Whether or not it would be ‘worth it’ for you is a more subjective question. Polynucleotides are an expensive treatment; the professional product should be administered by a qualified and experienced expert, which is why it costs as much as it does per session. I also always stress that the cost of a treatment or beauty gadget being "worth it" is relative to you. If you are extremely financially comfortable, a “give it a go” stance to polynucleotides is easier to take than for someone who would have to go without and scrimp for months.

While most people see positive results, there is also no way of guaranteeing the level of difference you’ll see after treatment. It could be more than me, or it could be less. It's just one reason why it's important to take your time before going ahead with any [expensive] treatment.

But when I compare my pictures and feel the improvement in my hands every day, I really think it was worth it for me – especially now that I've passed the point I would have had a maintenance session and can see the difference again. Most people, if not everyone, wouldn’t be able to tell that I’d had anything done – and that’s kind of the point.

While known for its stylish clothes and delicious picnic food, Marks and Spencer is also home to an array of affordable fragrances, many of which have been compared to designer blends. And having tried a plethora of M&S perfumes first-hand, these are our nine favourites that certainly smell more expensive than they are.

When it comes to investing in a new long-lasting perfume, we often resign ourselves to spending a little more. After all, many of the best perfumes for women bear designer names, like Chanel, Dior, and so on, but that's not to say cheap perfumes with impressive sillage and similarly chic notes can't be found. The best Zara perfumes are a testament to this, with several of the brand's scents touted for being reminiscent of pricier blends. Another high-street retailer with a similar stock of deceptively luxe-smelling fragrances is Marks and Spencer. The brand actually expanded its collection this year with the Studio perfume line, which features an array of very modern, unisex eau de parfums, but the original lineup still boasts some gems.

Gems which many shoppers also claim rival premium fragrances, all for £12 or less. So, if you're in the market for a new signature, but one that could easily be factored into your weekly shop or grabbed while on a mission for picky bits, these are the 9 M&S fragrances we'd recommend - having tried them all.

The 9 chicest-smelling M&S perfumes to add to your collection

How we tested M&S' perfumes

As with all our fragrance features, we tested each scent first-hand, wearing it on our skin for full day and monitoring how the notes developed and lasted.

Some of these scents have also been on our radars and in our collections for some time now, especially those that bear similarities to our favourite designer blends. M&S' Apothecary scent in Warmth, for instance, has been a long-lasting favourite of Digital Beauty Writer, Naomi Jamieson, as it smells similar to Le Labo Santal 33, which she also loves, but can't bring herself to restock at its £172 price point.

How to choose the right M&S perfume for you

Choosing a new signature is very much a personal decision, as scent is subjective. That said, being aware of what notes or fragrance genres you tend to gravitate towards can help to narrow things down.

If you love warm, ambery floral fragrances, for instance, Soft Iris will likely appeal to you, but if you favour sweeter, more gourmand perfumes, Sweet Pistachio might be more up your alley - as it possesses notes of vanilla and, of course, nutty pistachio.

Helpfully, M&S's original line-up has the key notes printed right there on the front of the bottles, so you get a quick insight before you even smell them, which is especially ideal if you're shopping online.

Depending on who you ask, we're either having the summer we've always dreamed of or this run of heatwaves has been the stuff of nightmares. Either way, we can probably all agree that sticky temperatures, at home or on holiday, make heat styling your hair an unappealing prospect.

Even the best hair dryer, on the coolest setting, can feel uncomfortable on a hot day, so it's tempting to avoid blow drying altogether - but is it bad to air dry your hair? And can you do it without frizz or flat, limp roots?

As ever, it pays to ask the experts - so we've taken our most pressing air drying questions straight to Neale Rodger, Style Director at STIL Salon, who has advised us whether forgoing hot tools is good or bad, how to banish flyaways, and which products make heat-free styling a breeze, for every hair type.

Is it bad to air dry your hair?

Most hair experts agree that a blow dry break never goes amiss - with a few caveats. "I personally think a balance is best," agrees Neale. "Giving your hair regular breaks from excessive heat styling can certainly help maintain its condition over time - but that said, air drying isn’t automatically healthier for everyone. If someone has very thick hair, leaving it damp for long periods isn’t always ideal."

With that in mind, what is the optimum ratio of air drying versus heat styling? "I usually tell clients to work with their lifestyle and hair type," explains Neale. "If you can air dry a few times a week and reduce your reliance on hot tools, that’s a great habit to get into."

How to air dry without frizz

If air drying is a no-brainer for summer comfort and hair health, it's a slightly trickier sell from a styling perspective. Without the power and cuticle-smoothing effects of heat, fine hair can often go flat and flyaway while thick, textured hair gets an attack of the frizzies. However, there are things you can do to help smooth things over.

"Fine hair tends to dry quite quickly, but it can easily fall flat if left completely untouched", explains Neale. "So I’d recommend applying a lightweight volumising spray or mousse to damp roots, then gently lifting sections away from the scalp as it dries. If you’re prone to flyaways, a small amount of lightweight cream through the mid-lengths and ends can help smooth things out without sacrificing volume."

As for thick or textured hair, "The key is product and technique," according to Neale. "Frizz often appears when the hair is disrupted while drying, so once you’ve applied your styling products, try not to touch it too much. A leave-in conditioner, curl cream or lightweight oil are great to help lock in moisture and keep the cuticle smooth. For textured and curly hair especially, I would say hydration is everything."

What's the easiest heatless styling method?

If you're used to whacking out your best hair curler or straighteners and love the styling control they give you, the idea of letting your hair do its own thing can feel a bit scary. And while we won't pretend that air and products alone can create as polished a look as plug-in devices, there are ways of achieving shape and texture without resorting to heat.

Neale advises that "braids are probably the easiest option. Putting the hair into one or two loose braids while damp can create a natural bend and movement once it dries," adding that, "You can also twist sections away from the face to give a soft wave."

As a devotee of the Kate Moss twist trick, I can concur that a little wrap and pin can make all the difference to otherwise shapeless hair.

If you have a bit more time on your hands, there are also plenty of heatless curl methods, either for a groomed-looking bouncy curl or simply to add root lift. "For volume, you could use Velcro rollers around the fringe and crown - they still work brilliantly and don’t require any heat at all," advises Neale.

Choose large rollers for bounce and volume, and smaller ones if you want to add in a curl or wave. Once your hair is totally dry, a mist of good old-fashioned hairspray will always help set any style you create - heated or not - and smooth down frizzies.

The nail polish resurgence is one of the biggest 2026 nail trends, if you ask me. I was a dedicated nail-painter until five years ago, when I was swayed by the longevity and speed of gel manicures. While I’ve enjoyed my years with shiny, seemingly everlasting colour, the nail damage it caused is hard to ignore. Even a pivot to BIAB nails didn’t totally heal them.

So here I am, crawling back to good old-fashioned nail polish - and I'm definitely not alone. There’s a lot to love about it - the convenience, the freedom of a quick colour change, the affordability. The one downside is longevity - I’ve been spoiled by weeks of shiny, chip-proof colour, and now my dulling, chipping manicure annoys me more than ever before.

Ever the beauty problem solver, I’ve found the ideal solution to help make my manicure last longer and to bring the gloss back to polish. The best bit? It couldn’t be quicker, and it takes just one product.

Try this simple trick to boost your at-home manicure’s longevity

I’m a belt-and-braces person when it comes to at-home nail care. I wouldn’t dare apply colour without a base coat, and I always finish off with a top coat. Recently, after a few days of wear, I noticed my manicure had lost its glossiness and decided to add a fresh layer of top coat to give it a fresh shine.

It sounds simple, but I was amazed at the difference simply repainting the top coat after a few days' wear made. It took one minute, and it instantly refreshed my manicure, making it look totally new. It also helped improve the staying power of the colour - I got well into day five without chipping.

I’ve been doing this with all my at-home manicures for the last few weeks, and it’s really changed the game. Before, when the colour would start to look dull and lacklustre, I’d feel the need to remove it and start from scratch. This way, I can really eke it out, saving me time down the line. It’s also much quicker to dry than a full fresh manicure - I can be back to using my hands fully within about ten minutes.

Plus, if you do have any chipping, you also have an opportunity to tidy up the colour on that one nail before sealing it in with a fresh top coat on all the nails.

This simple hack has stopped me from straying away from polish and booking into a salon or attempting to learn how to do gel nails at home. I’m fully committed to this new healthy nail journey - I’ve been gel-free for two months, and they already look healthier and feel stronger. Care to join me?

I'm not afraid to admit that I'm a big fan of people-watching. I spend quite a bit of my time on trains and the London underground, meaning I often find myself tapped into what's going on around me to pass the time.

Nothing piques my attention quite like someone doing their beauty rituals whilst on-the-go. Whether you're sweeping the best volumising mascara through the lashes or buffing one of the best Charlotte Tilbury products onto the skin, doing your makeup on your journey is, after all, an excellent way to save time. And with it being my job to write about all things beauty, you can imagine that my eyes are very quickly drawn to someone applying a nice-looking lippie or opening a convenient cushion foundation.

So, I've spent the last few weeks playing detective by eyeing up the beauty bags of those around me on my commute, in order to see the exact formulas they've been relying on for top-ups whilst on their travels – here's what I spied.

The 6 travel-friendly beauty buys loved by commuters

Whether you're craving an extra 30 minutes in bed, need beauty touch ups throughout the day or want to transition your look from day-to-night, there's many reasons why you might carry a little beauty pouch in your handbag. But, one thing each product inside has in common is that they need to be portable, quick and easy to use.

For a chic alternative to classic nude or French tip nails, take your cue from Charlize Theron and opt for a sheer manicure punctuated with glossy black dots.

Splashed across everything from sporty jackets to capri pants, polka dots are having a major moment this summer. And now they're making their way onto our nails, with dotty designs cropping up across Pinterest and Instagram. But rather than embracing an all-over pattern, Theron's take is far more understated. Created by celebrity nail artist Imarni and dubbed ‘Nude & Noir’, the minimalist design – a sheer nude base finished with single black dots – appeared at both the London and Paris premieres of The Odyssey.

Spotted with two very different couture looks (a Givenchy velvet gown in London and a black-and-white Dior lace dress in Paris), the manicure proved just how versatile it is. The black dots add just enough contrast to level up an otherwise classic nude, making it the perfect choice if you're looking to move beyond beige nails without venturing into statement nail art.

While this year's simple summer nails have largely centred around milky neutrals and barely-there finishes, Theron's 'Nude & Noir' design shows how one small detail can completely transform a neutral mani.

Instead of repeating identical dots across every nail, Imarni places them sparingly over the sheer nude base, while the little fingers are finished with a neat black half-moon at the cuticle instead. It's those subtle variations that stop the manicure from feeling too uniform, giving it a cooler, more fashion-led finish.

The beauty of the design is how easily it can be adapted. If you have shorter nails or a smaller nail plate, opt for finer dots to keep everything in proportion, while longer nails can carry bolder accents for a little more impact. Whether you're ready to move on from bubble bath nails or simply want a fresh take on a minimalist manicure, this is one of those nail designs that feels just as timeless as it does current.

And if you're tempted to recreate the look yourself, all you need is a neutral-toned nail varnish, a deep black shade and a dotting tool to achieve the minimalist nail art at home.

We've been loyal to No7 for years - whether it's their makeup bag staples or the skincare that's built a genuine cult following, the brand has long felt like a trusted fixture in British beauty. Now, that same expertise is heading south of the neck: No7 Good Intent has officially launched into bodycare. The new range brings the brand's most-loved facial formulas down to the collarbone and beyond, delivering hydration, nourishment and smoothness to every body.

And while we all might have our best body lotions already, this new range brings the skincare actives that made the facial line so popular - niacinamide, hyaluronic acid and CICA - into eight bodycare formulations, each subtly scented with bergamot essential oil and designed to target a specific concern, from dullness and uneven texture to straightforward dehydration. The idea, essentially, is to stop treating bodycare as an afterthought and start treating it like an extension of your skincare routine, with the same active-ingredient rigour and the same sensorial, "nice to use" textures.

I've been trying a few of the hero products from the range, and here's what I made of them.

If you've been anywhere near the beauty aisles at Boots over the past year, you'll know No7's Good Intent range has become something of a phenomenon - that "glass skin" glow, delivered via a lineup of jellies, milks and whipped cleansers that feel more like the bestselling Korean skincare buys than British high street.

Good Intent has built its reputation on making skincare actives feel accessible and, frankly, fun to use, and that translates well into bodycare. Nothing here feels like a gimmick tacked onto a popular name - the textures are considered, the pricing is accessible (most of the range sits under £20), and the results, at least in my experience, back up the claims.

The full eight-piece range is available now at Boots. These are some of the other products you can find...

Wait, hear us out! We might be in the height of summer, but if you want to get your hands on some of the most sought after advent calendars (ahem, like the Harrods Beauty Advent Calendars), you'll want to start thinking about it now.

We know we're still 5 months out from Christmas, essentially only halfway through the year, but we're actually right around the corner from the best beauty advent calendar pre-orders opening up – and let us tell you, they sell out fast. More specifically, Harrods' advent calendars are among the first to hit the market every year and they're also the first to sell out every year.

Fortunately, we've been given a first look at the luxury department store's trio of beauty advent calendars returning for 2026. From their price tags, number of full-size products and when we can expect them to go on sale, we've got everything you need to know.

Take a first look at the Harrods Beauty Advent Calendars 2026

The Harrods advent calendars gain traction every year without fail, and rightfully so. These curated calendar edits are jam-packed with an assortment of top shelf, luxury beauty buys from a collection of high-end brands.

While they might boast investment-worthy price tags, they do include an impressive number of full-sized formulas, meaning you're getting more bang for your buck. From a general beauty offering to a hair and body option, and of course the sell-out fragrance buy, here's the rundown of each 2026 calendar...

Our top picks from the advent calendars

While you might not be able to sign up to pre-sale just yet, our team have scanned the contents of the three calendars and spotted some of our favourite products housed inside. So, without further ado, here's our team's top picks...

When is the Harrods Advent Calendar pre-sale?

While we don't know a specific date yet, the store have announced that pre-orders will be available in early August. However, it's worth noting that pre-sale for last year's calendars opened on Tuesday 5th August – and they were incredibly quick to sell out.

When do the Harrods Advent Calendars go on general sale?

Even if you miss out on pre-sale, not all hope is lost as the calendars go on general sale thereafter. Again, while we're yet to find out the exact date, last year we saw the full launch happen in September. We'd recommend keeping your eyes peeled on the Harrods website and we'll also keep this page updated as soon as we gain intelligence on the date in question.

How to shop the Harrods Beauty Advent Calendars 2026

For those looking to shop any of the three beauty advent calendars, it will be available exclusively at Harrods, the six H Beauty stores around the UK and online via the Harrods website.

Chicken skin is really annoying, isn’t it? Thankfully, my keratosis pilaris is not uncomfortable or itchy like eczema or psoriasis, but it does knock my confidence in a strappy dress.

Over the years, I’ve found that the only thing that really makes the pesky little bumps on the tops of my arms disappear is exfoliating with a scrub every other day and then slathering on the best body creams for dry skin at night. It’s high maintenance, and if I’m honest, the only time I’ve ever truly committed was the month before my wedding.

However, I happened upon a cream that changed everything this year - and the best part is, it costs less than £10.

I tested the Mixa Urea Cica Repair Renewing Cream for our 2026 woman&home Skin Awards, and slathered it on before bed (turns out that’s the best time to moisturise your body) without much thought or expectation.

The first thing I really liked was the texture. It’s silky and silicone-ey rather than heavy and buttery like most body creams. Chicken skin or not, I don’t always like the feeling of being coated in product and basted like a chicken – lovely during the winter, not so much in the summer. Texture aside, it feels relatively no-frills – it’s not the best-smelling body moisturiser, just pleasantly unscented.

My skin was so incredibly soft and smooth when I woke up – it was like someone had buffed away the top layer of scaliness overnight. A bit like a snake shedding their skin - but with none of the grossness of one of those peeling foot masks. The more I’ve used it, the softer my skin has become. After about a week, I absent-mindedly brushed the back of my usually keratosis pilaris-covered upper arms and double-took when they didn’t feel bumpy any more. It isn't completely gone, but it's much less noticeable than it was before.

The key ingredient in Mixa Urea Cica Repair Renewing Cream is urea. It’s technically a compound from urine, but before you panic, it’s always a synthetic version that is used in cosmetics rather than the real deal. Urea is often used in foot creams as it is both really good at exfoliating dry, rough skin and really good at intensely moisturising.

In Mixa Urea Cica Repair Renewing Cream, urea is combined with cica, also known as centella asiatica, which works wonders to soothe red, dry or sensitive skin. I think it’s the combination of the two ingredients that makes it such a hardworking product, softening the new skin after sloshing off the old, dry and scaly.

The more advanced bodycare becomes, the more expensive it becomes too, so I was thrilled to see that this is just £9.99 for a really generously sized tub. If you were just going to use it on your arms, it would last for a very long time.

If you’re looking for a lazy, low-effort way to transform dry, bumpy skin into soft, silky skin, this is the moisturiser you need.

If there's one product that's become an absolute non-negotiable during this heatwave, it's my face mist. It's living in my bag, my desk drawer, and is even one of my cooling beauty products in the fridge, and I've been reaching for it constantly - a spritz the second I walk in from the heat, another mid-afternoon when I need reviving, and one more before bed for good measure. But when your makeup's already on, does that same spritz do more harm than good?

"We remember to drink more water when it's hot, but we often forget that our skin gets dehydrated too," says facialist and skincare expert Anel Lamaine, founder of Skin By Anel Lamine. A hydrating facial mist can instantly help relieve that tight, dry feeling and refresh the complexion throughout the day."

It's a question we may not often consider enough, and the honest answer is: it depends on the mist, and it depends on your makeup. Let's break it down.

What is a face mist, exactly?

A face mist - sometimes called a hydrating mist or facial spray - is a lightweight, water-based skincare product designed to refresh, cool and hydrate the skin in seconds. Most are formulated with ingredients like rosewater, glycerin, hyaluronic acid or thermal spring water, and they're typically dispensed through a fine, gentle spray nozzle rather than a heavy jet.

You'll usually reach for one to:

• Cool down and refresh your skin, especially in hot weather
• Add a hit of hydration between skincare steps or throughout the day
• Set a dewy, glowy finish
• Perk up tired-looking skin without a full skincare reapplication

Our top face mist picks...

Face mist vs makeup setting spray vs fixing spray: what's the difference?

This is where things get confusing, because a face mist and a makeup setting spray can look almost identical in the bottle - but they're doing very different jobs.

A face mist is a skincare product, first and foremost. Its goal is to hydrate and refresh your skin, not to interact with your makeup at all. It's not designed to "lock" anything in place.

A makeup setting spray (also called a fixing or finishing spray) is a makeup product. It's formulated with polymers and film-forming ingredients that help your foundation, concealer and powder stay put, resist transfer, and last longer through the day (or night). Some also help blend product into the skin, reduce a cakey or powdery finish, and add a bit of a natural glow or matte look, depending on the formula. Crucially, it's designed to sit on top of makeup and help it adhere - that's its whole purpose.

So while both come out of a spray bottle and both might contain some hydrating ingredients, one is skincare (face mist) and one is makeup (setting/fixing spray). Knowing which one you're reaching for matters more than you'd think.

So, can you spray a face mist over makeup?

In most cases, yes. Face mists tend to have a very fine, light spray function, which means they won't leave your face dripping wet or disturb your makeup underneath. Instead, you get a refreshing moment and a boost of lasting hydration, without your foundation sliding around.

If you're someone who likes to mist throughout the day to combat dryness or just to cool off, a light spritz over makeup shouldn't cause any issues - especially with modern, long-wear formulas.

That said, if you're at all worried about your makeup shifting, there's an easy fix: make sure it's properly set first. Press a light layer of setting powder over your base, then follow with a strong makeup fixing spray to lock everything in. Once that's had a moment to dry down, you can mist away with your face mist later in the day without disrupting anything underneath.

When to reach for a setting spray instead

If you're heading to an event where your makeup needs to survive hours on end - think a wedding, a big evening out, or anything with a "no touch-ups allowed" energy - a makeup setting spray is the better choice over a face mist.

Setting sprays aren't going to give you that same cooling, hydrating refresh a face mist will, but they will help enhance the finish of your makeup and offer a touch of hydration too, all while working to keep everything in place. Think of it as prioritising longevity over that instant refreshed feeling.

The more important question: what about spraying over SPF?

Honestly, I think this is the question worth paying more attention to. Misting over your sunscreen is a bit more nuanced than misting over makeup, because there's a risk you could be diluting or shifting your SPF protection rather than just your foundation.

The good news is that if you've given your sunscreen enough time to properly settle into the skin before misting, you should be fine. Most SPFs need a few minutes to bind to the skin, so try to build in a little buffer between applying sunscreen and reaching for your mist.

If you like the idea of a two-in-one, there are now SPF face mists on the market designed to top up your sun protection throughout the day, on top of makeup or bare skin.

"The one product I never leave home without in summer is a facial SPF spray," says Lamine. "So many people apply SPF as part of their morning routine and then completely forget about it for the rest of the day, but sun protection isn't a one-and-done step. A mist makes reapplication incredibly easy, especially if you're wearing makeup."

It's worth knowing these tend to be less cooling and hydrating than a standard face mist, since the formula is prioritising sun protection over that refreshing feel - but they're a handy option if reapplying cream or spray SPF over makeup feels like too much.

The verdict

A quick spritz of face mist over makeup is generally fine, thanks to that fine, gentle spray most formulas use. If you want extra peace of mind, set your makeup properly first with powder and a fixing spray. Save setting sprays for when longevity is the priority, and if SPF is in the mix, just give it time to settle before you mist - or consider switching to an SPF mist to keep your protection topped up.

For holiday-ready toes, the 'Picante' pedicure is the chicest choice, especially for those wanting a look as versatile and stylish as a pillarbox red, but with a spicy twist.

While many of the usual suspects have made it onto the list of 2026 summer pedicure trends, like sheer pink and burgundy pedicures, there are a few fresh shades emerging too. Coconut milk, for instance, and one particularly fiery-looking red. Inspired by the glossy, red-hot look of chilli peppers, the aptly named picante pedicure is being touted by nail artists as the colour of the season for your toes. Like a classic true red, this sizzling shade will go with all your hot weather outfits and footwear, whether that's offering a chic contrast to black flip-flops or adding a vibrant pop of summery colour to your vacation sandals and occasion-ready kitten heels.

So, if you're keen to embrace a new shade this season, but one that feels on par with many of the most timeless pedicure colours, here's why a picante-inspired look is the way to go - per the experts and our trend-scouting beauty team.

Why picante is the fiery, statement hue to wear on your toes this summer

For those who don't know, the word 'picante' means spicy in Spanish. It can also refer to a kind of hot, tomato-based sauce, as well as a fiery twist on a margarita cocktail, so already you can picture exactly what a picante-inspired pedicure shade must entail. Think red-hot chilly peppers and ripe, glossy tomatoes.

As Mylee Brand Mentor and nail artist, Jack Harper explains, "It's slightly deeper and warmer than a classic pillar-box red, with subtle orange undertones that give it a sun-soaked, Mediterranean feel. Think of it as the nail equivalent of a spicy margarita; bold, vibrant and effortlessly chic."

As for how it differs from more timeless red looks, Harper adds that, "Classic reds tend to sit on either the blue-toned or true-red side of the colour spectrum, whereas Picante introduces warmth. Those fiery undertones make it feel softer, fresher and a little more fashion-forward.

"It's a shade that catches the light beautifully and adds warmth to the skin, making it particularly flattering on toes during the warmer months."

It's bright and eye-catching, but being that it is still a shade of red, it remains versatile and stylish, no matter what footwear or outfit you choose to pair it with.

Our picante pedicure essentials

If you're planning to give yourself a picante pedicure at home, we've rounded up a few shades that we think really nail the look.

To ensure your feet are sandal-ready, we also recommend investing in one of the best foot creams, as well as a good-quality clear top coat to layer over your chosen picante-inspired shade. This last step can make all the difference to the longevity of your manicure - Manucurist's Sunshine Top Coat is a personal favourite of Digital Beauty Writer, Naomi Jamieson's.

1. Picante pedicure

As we can see, a picante-style shade just feels so summery and adds a stylish accent to any outfit, be it classic blue jeans or a white linen dress.

"Summer is all about colour, and Picante strikes the perfect balance between timeless and trend-led," says Harper. "It has enough depth to feel sophisticated but enough vibrancy to stand out with sandals, beachwear and holiday outfits. It's also incredibly versatile, so whether you're poolside in flip-flops or dressing up for an evening out, it's the kind of shade that instantly elevates your look while giving a healthy glow to the skin."

2. Picante mani/pedi

What's chicer than a picante pedicure? A matching picante manicure. There's always something so sophisticated and put-together about coordinating your fingers and toes, especially with this red-hot, summery shade.

3. Fiery-red pedicure

For something a little less orangey, opt for this sort of cherry tomato-red. It feels very luxe and classic, but still very on-theme for this trend.

4. Bright coral pedicure

If you want to go the other way and embrace more orange, as opposed to more of a true red, opt for a fiery coral pedicure. Again, there's a definite Euro-summer feel to this shade, and it will look so stylish poolside and at the beach.

If you too have been influenced by all these au naturel manicures but feel like your nails aren't in the best nick, Manucurist's Glossy Booster Duo is the answer - having transformed my dry post-gel nails in minutes.

So far, there has indeed been a running theme throughout the 2026 nail trends. Subtle and sheer nail polishes have been in high demand, as have more natural treatments like the popular Japanese manicure (and Japanese pedicure, for that matter), which features no polish at all but still leaves your nails shining. Personally, I love a bit of colour on my nails and am partial to a gel set, but lately, I have found myself gravitating towards these very clean and soft finishes. Especially after seeing so many celebs also opting for similar barely-there looks over the last few months. The only issue? My natural nails aren't exactly in great shape.

That said, when I spotted that Manucurist offer a duo specifically targeted towards making your talons shine, I thought, what better way to put it to the ultimate test? So, if you're feeling similarly self-conscious about the dryness or ridged texture of your nails, but really want to achieve that chic 'naked' look, here's why the Glossy Booster duo might just be your new best friend.

Why Manucurist's Glossy Booster duo is my go-to for a natural look - no polish required

I'll be the first to acknowledge that my nails aren't in prime condition. They're looking a little rough and ready after months of both professional in-salon and at-home gel manicures (and I will admit, not-so-great at-home gel removal too), but having been bombarded with natural nail look after natural nail look, I was determined to kickstart my healthy nail journey and get them looking somewhat presentable - even in their bare state. Enter Manucurist's Glossy Booster Duo.

The set features a brush-on Glycolic Exfoliator and a double-sided nail buffer, one that gently buffs away texture and another that polishes. It's specifically designed with damaged, sensitive and ridged nails in mind and works to exfoliate, resurface and hydrate them. It's also a great choice if you're looking to achieve a very glassy-looking manicure, but don't want the hassle of drying and inevitably chipping nail polishes.

The effect is almost instant; as soon as you've applied the fast-absorbing formula, massaged it into your nails and begun to buff them, this glossy gleam is revealed. Above you can see my nails before using this duo for the first time, and directly afterwards.

I was actually astounded by how quickly it worked and just how easy the process was - and even more so when the polished finish actually lasted. To the touch, my nails feel so smooth and hydrated. Something about the shine also makes the pink colour of my natural nails seem brighter too, which I love.

Beforehand, my nails had slight ridges and areas of peeling, but after gently buffing in the glycolic formula and shining them up, you wouldn't know it. There was no vigorous filing; in fact, all in all, I think this process took me about two minutes on each hand, and despite the weakness and fragile state of my nails, they didn't feel sensitive.

How to use the Manucurist Glossy Duo

If you're keen to invest but are unsure of how the set works, I've laid out a quick step-by-step tutorial of the entire process.

First things first, I recommend shaping and trimming your nails to your desired length and style. Then you simply brush on the Glycolic Nail Exfoliator (on your first use, you might need to twist the end a few times before the serum will come out) and massage it in.

Then you buff the surface of your nails with the pink and white side of the mini buffer, followed by the candy-pink side, which polishes them and affords that glassy, Japanese manicure-esque finish.

There’s a particular kind of glow that comes from feeling good in your own skin - not filtered, not “done”, just genuinely comfortable going bare-faced. It’s the sort of result most of us invest years into our skincare routines for - which is why it’s always worth paying attention when someone who’s spent decades in the public eye, camera-ready under studio lighting, says they’ve finally found something that actually works.

Debbie McGee has never been one for invasive tweakments - Botox and fillers, she says, always scared her. But at 67, the former Strictly finalist has finally found a treatment she’s happy to shout about, and the results have been enough to send her makeup bag into early retirement.

For the past year, Debbie has been having NeoGen nitrogen plasma treatments with aesthetic practitioner Jenny O’Neill at the Aspire Clinic. Debbie’s main motivation was tackling a longstanding insecurity: a large brown age spot on her cheek, inherited from her father, that she’d covered with makeup for years. “It wasn’t a mole. It was two, but they kind of covered this area of my cheek,” she explains. “They’re unsightly. So I always had to cover it with makeup, and if I didn’t, people would say, ‘What’s that?’”

So, what is Neogen - and how does it work?

The technology works by converting nitrogen gas into plasma energy, delivering controlled heat that penetrates the skin’s deeper layers to stimulate collagen and elastin production.

Unlike lasers, chemical peels and the best red light therapy devices, it works on the whole skin structure rather than just the surface, with results that build gradually over the following weeks.

Debbie's experience with Neogen

The treatment did far more than she bargained for. As a self-confessed “sun worshiper” in her younger years, Debbie had also built up a scattering of small freckles that had long bothered her, and those faded too.

“So now I’m the proud owner of a face with clear skin at my grand old age,” she says. “It’s a wonderful treatment in so many more ways than I would’ve ever thought possible.”

What’s struck her most is that the improvements haven’t stopped. She’s noticed her skin’s texture and tone continuing to refine over time as her own collagen production ramps up - including softening the fine lines on her top lip that she’d been dreading treating with filler, and a subtle tightening along her jawline.

Crucially for Debbie, nobody’s clocked that she’s had anything done. “What’s been fantastic about Neogen is all my girlfriends, and lots of guys I know, keep telling me, ‘My goodness, Debbie, you look so good.’ But they don’t say, ‘What have you had done?’” It’s this natural, no-downtime approach - she opted for lower-energy sessions to fit her schedule - that’s made her a convert.

The full series of six treatments cost £4,500 in total (around £750 a session), which Debbie argues "pays for itself" once you factor in the money saved on other makeup and skincare endeavours. Downtime is minimal, and numbing cream is available for anyone worried about discomfort.

Debbie is marking 50 years in showbusiness this year, with her autobiography, A Magical Life, out in October - and by the sound of it, she’s never felt more ready to face the cameras without a scrap of concealer.

Debbie had her treatments at the Aspire Clinic in Reading, but NeoGen is available at clinics across the UK - find your nearest at neogenplasma.co.uk.

When celebrity lash artist Edy Kurowska did my wedding lashes last year, they were everything I'd hoped for: full, fluttery, and so natural nobody clocked they weren't mine. Turns out I'm in good company – Trinny Woodall, Rita Ora and Zoë Kravitz are all regular clients of hers too.

Until now, booking an appointment at Edy’s London salon (where a full set cost £360) was the only way to get the look. Her new £45 DIY lash kit hopes to change that. Before applying a single lash, Edy considers each client's facial proportions, bone structure and eyebrow shape to create a bespoke finish.

“To me, lashes should frame the eye beautifully, not overwhelm it,” she says. It's why Trinny has trusted Edy with her lashes for years, previously explaining on Instagram that heavier extensions can end up “wearing the person,” whereas Edy's work simply looks like you're genetically blessed with great lashes.

I tried Edy London's Pre-Glued Lash Clusters - here are my honest thoughts

As beauty trends have shifted towards softer, more minimal makeup, Edy has seen a growing demand for that natural-looking finish beyond the salon. "I started getting DMs from around the world asking if I could train people in their city, fly out to them, or recommend someone in their area who could match my work," she tells me. "Of course, being in multiple locations at once isn't possible, so the answer became clear – I needed to create a kit that would allow people to recreate my signature look at home."

I've had my fair share of lash disasters over the years. There was always someone at university who could apply a strip lash in seconds without so much as glancing in a mirror. That person definitely wasn’t me. Even the best false eyelashes would inevitably end up wonky, peeling away at the corners or refusing to match on both eyes.

So when Edy invited me to her London salon to try the new Pre-Glued Lash Clusters, I was curious to see whether they really could be as straightforward as she claimed. Unlike traditional strip lashes, these are applied in small sections underneath your natural lashes rather than across the entire lash line. It took me a few minutes to get into a rhythm, but once I'd placed the first couple of clusters, I found them surprisingly intuitive.

Using a pair of tweezers (£10 at Edy London Beauty if you don't already own some), you simply position each cluster just above the waterline before gently pressing it into place. “My top tip is don't rush and don't overcomplicate it – these are much easier to apply than people think,” assures Edy. “If you can apply mascara, you can absolutely do this. Simply pick up the cluster, place it on and press gently to secure, using tweezers or just your finger.”

Each pack contains clusters in different lengths, allowing you to create a finish that's tailored to your own eye shape. I opted for shorter pieces through the inner corner before gradually building to longer clusters on the outer edge, creating that softly lifted effect Edy is known for. The result is defined yet subtle and, unlike strip lashes, there wasn't a thick band sitting heavily across my eyelid.

The collection includes seven styles inspired by cities around the world, each designed to create a slightly different look. Paris is the most natural, with light brown fibres that are ideal if your lashes have become finer or lighter over time, while Warsaw most closely recreates the look of Edy's signature salon extensions. If you prefer a little more texture, Seoul takes inspiration from the soft, separated look of a Korean lash lift.

Tokyo is designed to create a wide-eyed effect and is particularly flattering on hooded lids. It's also Trinny Woodall's go-to style. "They're perfect for infills between her salon appointments because they match exactly what I do on her eyes in person. If her lashes start to shed between visits, she can simply pop on a quick infill at home, and it blends seamlessly with her salon look," says Edy.

You can remove the clusters each evening, storing them back in the box to reuse up to five times, or leave them in place for several days. “After the first 24 hours, they adjust to your body temperature, so you can shower, swim and exercise with them on,” says Edy. “When you're ready to remove them, gently peel them away – they won't pull your natural lashes.”

More cluster lashes I rate...

After wearing lash extensions for my wedding, I didn't think I'd find an at-home alternative that came close. These don't completely replace the experience of having a bespoke set applied by an expert, but they're the closest I've tried. If you've always loved the look of professional extensions but found traditional strip lashes fiddly or intimidating, they're well worth considering.

If your best fake tan for summer tan has already been blemished by a pattern of mosquito bites going up and down your legs, chances are, you’re in good company. Generally, prevention is still your best defence (more on that below), but if you’re reading this with an itchy welt already forming, you’ll want to know what actually helps.

According to Melody Yuan, founder of Skin Cupid - a handy online shopping platform Korean skincare - some of the bestselling Korean skincare buys can double up as brilliant bite-soothers, thanks to their hardworking ingredients.

“One of the biggest misconceptions people have about skincare is that it’s only useful for concerns such as dryness, acne, or ageing,” Melody explains. “In reality, some ingredients can also be incredibly helpful if skin becomes irritated by external factors such as insect bites, heat and humidity. Korean skincare has always placed a strong emphasis on calming inflammation and supporting the skin barrier, which is why many of its most popular ingredients can be particularly beneficial during the summer months.” Here are the four she recommends keeping an eye out for.

The Korean skincare ingredients that can actually soothe your mosquito bites

1. Centella Asiatica (Cica)

If you’ve dabbled in K-beauty at all, you’ll have met Cica already - it’s become something of a poster ingredient for calming skin. “Cica has become one of the most recognisable ingredients in Korean skincare because of its ability to help soothe visible redness and support the skin’s natural recovery process,” says Melody. “When skin becomes irritated, whether from environmental stressors or insect bites, the priority should be calming the skin and preventing further disruption to the barrier. This is where cica-based products can be particularly helpful.”

2. Heartleaf (Houttuynia Cordata)

Less famous than Cica but arguably just as hardworking, Heartleaf is a favourite for sensitive, reactive skin, which makes it well suited to an angry bite. “Heartleaf is especially popular amongst those with sensitive or reactive skin, so ideal for an inflamed bite,” Melody says. “It’s often used in Korean skincare because it helps calm the appearance of redness and leaves skin feeling more comfortable. For travellers dealing with heat, humidity, or skin irritation while abroad, it can be a useful ingredient to incorporate into a routine.”

3. Panthenol

A pro-vitamin B5 derivative you’ll spot on ingredient lists everywhere from moisturisers to lip balms, Panthenol is all about repair and comfort. “Panthenol is excellent for supporting the skin barrier and maintaining hydration, while aloe vera provides an immediate cooling sensation that many people find comforting after spending time in the sun,” Melody notes - a handy reminder that pairing it with aloe is a good move if you’re dealing with sun exposure as well as bites.

4. Mugwort

Mugwort has quietly built a reputation in Korean skincare as the ingredient for sensitive, easily-irritated skin. “Mugwort is another ingredient that’s been used in Korean beauty for many years due to its calming properties and suitability for sensitive skin,” says Melody.

But don’t ditch the repellent...

Before you start relying on your skincare drawer to do double duty as pest control, Melody has a word of caution. Social media is awash with claims that certain scents keep mosquitoes at bay, but she’s not convinced that’s a strategy worth trusting on its own. “Some fragrances and essential oils are commonly associated with repelling insects, but skincare products should never be viewed as a substitute for appropriate insect repellents,” she says. “The best approach is always prevention first, followed by soothing and supporting the skin if irritation occurs.”

It’s a good reminder that this summer, your beauty bag might need a rethink. “Travelling exposes our skin to a range of challenges, from air conditioning and sun exposure to humidity and insect bites,” Melody adds. “Having products that prioritise skin comfort and barrier health can make a significant difference. This is one area where Korean skincare excels - rather than focusing solely on correcting problems after they’ve occurred, it aims to keep the skin resilient, balanced, and comfortable in the first place.”

So alongside your SPF and your repellent, it might be worth packing something with cica, heartleaf, panthenol or mugwort in it too. Your ankles will thank you.

I hate to state the obvious, but this summer has been hot. So hot, in fact, that I've taken extra steps, alongside the classic closing of blinds and taking cold showers, by stowing a certain Korean face mist in my fridge - for instant cooling relief.

While the fridge is usually reserved for your milk and veg, mine has become something of a mini beauty counter, with an array of cooling buys, from Korean sheet masks to the best eye creams taking up real estate in there, after all this heat. There's one formula, though, that has come in handy much more than the rest and is so effective at cooling that I now sneak a spray every time I pass by.

Haruharu Wonder's Black Rice Probiotics Mist is like a cool breeze and splash of water to the face, all at once, with its extra-fine texture offering a quick dousing of chilled hydration - as well as a lasting glow. Here's why it's a must-have for future heatwaves or even just to keep in your handbag.

The cooling Korean face mist I've been reaching for non-stop in this heat

Of course, face mists are a classic for quickly refreshing your skin and even your makeup. The Avène Thermal Spring Water mist, for instance, is already a favourite of our beauty team, as is the popular French skincare buy, Caudalie Beauty Elixir. But if you're looking for a new option and one that can be used over makeup and has very glow-boosting results, allow me to introduce you to Haruharu Wonder's Black Rice Probiotics Barrier Nad+ Serum Mist.

The mist itself is milky and ultra-fine, meaning it really does mist your skin, unlike some, which can be unexpectedly intense and direct. As for the formula, it's absolutely chock-a-block full of nourishing ingredients like ceramides, ginseng root extract, panthenol, black rice extract and squalane. All of which I've found have been quietly soothing redness and boosting the overall radiance of my skin with every use. Here I was, initially just using it for some speedy relief from the sweltering heat, and now I'm hooked on the dewyglow it gives my complexion.

I've since influenced my husband, who has started stealing spritzes, and with the heat and the sheer fact that the formula is so refreshing, I've been kind enough to turn a blind eye.

As mentioned, I have been keeping my bottle in the fridge, but even unchilled, the mist is a little miracle worker. Once summer is over, I'll relocate it to my handbag for quick refreshers, because you can also mist it over your makeup - and whenever you fancy a quick spritz of hydration. I've used it both on bare skin and over a full face of makeup and haven't spotted it disrupting my foundation or mascara in any way. I have, however, noticed how lightweight and non-sticky it feels on the skin and how dewy it leaves it looking.

Hairstyling can be tricky in the summer months, what with frizz-inducing humidity and the sort of temperatures that make having any strands clinging to your face intolerable. Thankfully, though, we've just received some royal inspiration from Catherine, Princess of Wales, who opted for a very chic, half-up, half-down look, with a twist at Wimbledon.

As mentioned, this season can pose some challenges when it comes to doing your hair, but it's also a period that tends to be peppered with occasions, from weddings to garden parties and even vacations, when you might want to look nice for a sun-soaked dinner. Thus, finding a hair trend or style that is elegant yet comfortable in the heat is the goal, and one the Princess of Wales absolutely nailed during the final weekend of this year's Wimbledon Tennis Championships. Paired with a very stylish red tailored dress, the royal's long golden-brown hair was secured into a very effortless half-up, half-down look, and remember that twist we mentioned? It's a literal one.

Instead of a simple ponytail or bun, Kate's hair was secured into what appears to be a double twist, and while it might look complex, it's actually quite easy to replicate once you know how.

Upon first glance, Kate's hair on July 11th does indeed look quite intricate, but all you'll need to recreate the 'do is one of the best curling irons (to replicate her loose waves), a styling cream or shine-boosting serum and a couple of hair ties.

From the looks of it, a front section has been taken from either side of her head (starting from above her ears) and has been pulled back and secured into a mini ponytail before being flipped in on itself - to create that twisted effect. This process has then been repeated above it, again pulling strands from around her face back, securing them and flipping them over.

Personally, we think it's such a lovely option for an occasion when you want to wear your hair down, but perhaps don't want any loose strands blowing into your face or sticking to your makeup. This is especially true in the heat, and as Kate also proved on the day, it's a great hairstyle for wearing under a sun hat as the twists are very secure and won't be easily disturbed.