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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Step 1. Cleanse without stripping

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

Step 2. Hydrate, cushion and strengthen

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

Step 3: Bringing back the glow

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

Step 4: Comfort and joy

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

Step 5: Pamper and protect

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

The top professional treatment for skin in its 60s

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

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

We spend a huge amount of time and money protecting, treating and correcting our skin - serums to brighten, creams to plump, treatments to smooth away what's already changed. What we spend far less time thinking about is what skin actually needs to keep doing its job well in the first place.

The answer, according to a growing number of aesthetic doctors, comes down to protein. More specifically, amino acids - the building blocks that keep skin structurally strong, in much the same way protein keeps muscle strong. And from our late twenties onwards, skin starts running low on them.

That's the thinking behind Celora™ Vita, the new injectable powering The Protein Facial, from DermaFocus - the regenerative aesthetics company behind the UK launch of Plinest Polynucleotide. Rather than correcting what's already depleted, it works with skin's own biology to help rebuild and regenerate it from the inside out, delivering a complex of nine amino acids - including all three branched-chain amino acids (BCAAs) - directly where skin needs them. DermaFocus describes it as the most complete amino acid blend of its kind currently available.

Why amino acids matter for skin

"Skin cannot be rebuilt without the biological materials required for its reconstruction," says Dr Lee Walker, Director and Clinical Lead at BCity Clinics. "Amino acids play a fundamental role in supporting those processes, and patients are increasingly seeking treatments that go beyond correction and focus on overall skin quality."

It's a shift several doctors are seeing in clinic. "Aesthetic medicine is moving towards prevention, skin longevity and improved skin quality," says Dr Marwa Ali, Resident Aesthetic Doctor at The Wellness Clinic, Harrods. "The Protein Facial supports skin from within and helps maintain healthier, more resilient-looking skin over time."

Dr Saleena Zimri, founder of Skin Doctor Clinics in London, Leeds, Manchester and York, sums up the rationale simply: "We've spent years talking about what ageing skin loses, but not enough time discussing what it needs. Celora™ Vita helps replenish those foundations. For anyone seeking natural-looking improvements in skin quality, it's an exciting step forward."

What it treats

The Protein Facial is designed to address the appearance of fine lines, dullness, dehydration, uneven tone and texture, loss of elasticity and the effects of sun damage - but the emphasis is on skin function first. The idea is that the glow comes from skin working better beneath the surface, rather than treating what's visible on top.

What happens over a course of treatment

The recommended course is three sessions, spaced three weeks apart, treating the face - including the forehead, under-eye area, cheeks and around the mouth - as well as the neck.

Hydration tends to improve first: skin feels more comfortable, looks less flat and takes on a natural luminosity that's hard to replicate with topical products alone. As the course progresses, texture refines, fine lines soften, and a firmness develops that comes from skin functioning better from its foundations up, rather than being temporarily plumped or filled.

It can be used as a standalone treatment or alongside other aesthetic treatments, and DermaFocus positions it as suited to two quite different patients: those in their twenties looking to protect skin health early, and those seeking more visible improvement later in life.

The Protein Facial powered by Celora™ Vita is available at aesthetic clinics across the UK, with prices varying by clinic. You can find your nearest provider at dermafocus.co.uk.

We all look forward to going on holiday. But with the sand, sea and sun in full force, you may find the elements start to work against you. And when it comes to biting bugs, the unlucky among us may find ourselves in itching hell.

That’s certainly the position I was in when I visited Sri Lanka and Singapore recently. At one point during my travels, I counted a hideous – yet somehow comical – 97 bites across my body. Not only had I been attacked by every mosquito within a 10-mile radius (apparently), but I also found myself grappling with sand flies after surfing sessions, as well as other biting pests during a sunrise safari. Why I didn’t wear long trousers, I will never know.

Luckily, I had packed a truckload of travel beauty essentials that could help. This is largely because I bought a one-way ticket to travel, so I was packing for several months rather than a short break. This means that I’ve had time to do the legwork and try all the best multi-purpose beauty creams to discover which one you truly need to pack for your next holiday.

Why do some people get more mosquitos bites?

I’ve always been the most susceptible to mosquito bites, no matter who I travel with. If you’re the same, there may be a reason for that. Charlotte Vøhtz, organic skincare expert and the founder of Green People, notes that “some people are more prone to mosquito bites” than others.

Several factors can affect this, from the levels of lactic acid, uric acid and ammonia in your body odour to higher body temperatures, blood types (those with O are most prone to bites) and increased carbon dioxide exhalation (usually because of physical activity).

Charlotte says that for those who have been bitten, you should opt for either aloe vera, which “is soothing and helps reduce inflammation,” or hydrating lotions “containing ingredients like hyaluronic acid, glycerin and ceramides to help hydrate the skin and restore the barrier.”

As well as these – and along with any beauty product I’m about to mention – it’s advised you invest in an effective mosquito repellent product and medicinal treatments (such as hydrocortisone creams) for any bites you do experience.

My favourite beauty creams for aiding bite symptoms

I’ve worked as a beauty journalist for 15 years, and in that time I’ve seen a lot of trends come and go.

The longer I’ve been in the job, the easier I’ve found it to spot the passing fads versus the game-changers that really deserve a place in your skincare routine. Skincare fridges? Ugly! Pointless! The 12-step skincare routine? Not for me, thank you. Red light therapy? I’m a superfan. Hot cloth cleansing? I still do it every night.

My job, essentially, is trend spotting sprinkled with a healthy dose of scepticism - and I’m afraid that you’re going to have to listen to me be sceptical for the next 500 words.

Why I think these trending sheet masks are a pointless fad

When I saw my first TikTok video about Korean collagen sheet masks, I was fascinated. Women were using them on long flights to combat the moisture-sapping side effects of being in the air for hours. It was addictive viewing - a white gel mask, over the course of eight to ten hours, turned translucent, revealing fresh, plump skin just in time for passport control.

I understood the potential - I step off a short two-hour flight feeling as parched as a camel, but as more and more videos popped up, and more and more brands launched them, my intrigue turned into scepticism.

Surely there are more efficient ways to keep your skin quenched? An application of your facial moisturiser or a spritz of the best face mists offer a cooling, refreshing hit of hydration, and it takes just seconds to get to work.

I’m also wondering if keeping your face smothered for that long might actually suffocate your skin and clog pores, especially when you’re sitting in recycled, dry air for hours and hours. Surely at a certain point, your skin reaches peak hydration and can go no further? Wouldn’t you rather spend the first few hours of your holiday drinking an overpriced prosecco, or watching a ‘90s rom com, or napping?

Don’t get me wrong - I’m not an anti-masker. I really enjoy using the best face masks. But they’re definitely not essential, and won’t treat your skin as effectively as a facial at home or in a clinic. The idea of spending hours wearing a mask feels excessive. Some of them even have to be worn overnight. I can think of nothing worse than being cocooned in a sticky gel mask, lying perfectly still like a vampire to stop it sliding down my chin.

3 sheet masks I think are actually worth your time

My scepticism turned into full-blown cynicism when I used one of these collagen masks. I couldn’t believe how long it was all going to take. The one I used was billed as one of the most efficient, needing only (!) an hour and a half.

I don’t know what was challenged more - my impatience or my mild claustrophobia. 20 minutes in, I was confused. After 45 minutes, I was itching to peel it off. After an hour, I was aggy. The second my timer went off, I yanked it off and noticed…barely anything!

Yes, my skin looked nice - the glass skin effect had definitely kicked in. Fine, it looked healthy and dewy - but I’ve had similar results from using my normal skincare routine. Dare I say, a £4.99 sheet mask achieved much more in 15 minutes.

If you’ve used and enjoyed using these dawdling masks and like their effects, by all means, carry on using them. Don’t let my impatience put you off. If you’ve been eyeing them up from the sidelines though, or feel peer pressure to look like Freddy Kreuger on your next easyJet flight, let me set you free - don’t bother.

I’ve always enjoyed the sun. I’m a child of the '70s and '80s – the days you’d fry your skin on the sun lounger for the sake of a deep tan. At the start of the new school year, my post-holiday tan lines were my badges of honour. I remember showing them off proudly to my friends who were all jealous of how dark my skin had turned since the end of term.

Fast forward to my twenties: after becoming a beauty editor, I quickly learned how damaging the sun is to our skin, so I became more mindful with my approach. While I’d always used suncream in my childhood, the factors barely crept above SPF 15, but in my twenties they began to increase. And the older I got, the higher the factor on my best facial sunscreen climbed.

In my early thirties, after my first pregnancy with my now 21-year-old son, I noticed some darker pigmentation patches on my upper lips and cheeks. I now know that this was ‘melasma’ – a common postpartum skin condition that is triggered by hormones like oestrogen, but also by sun exposure. And while the upper lip darkness gradually faded as my hormones settled, the patches on my cheeks would flare up whenever I was in the sun.

And then, five years ago, I moved to Florida, so my sun protection game turned up a notch. SPF 50 became a non-negotiable on both my face and body. Hats began putting in an appearance on every beach and boat day. Shade became my best friend – and the due diligence paid off. My skin is in great condition, and my tan is never as deep as it had been after a fortnight in Florida when I was younger. However, I did notice when I first moved that my pigmentation worsened a little.

Living with pigmentation: Why I refuse to hide from the sun

For those wondering if skincare can fade pigmentation, lifestyle is a very important factor too. Experts say that once you have pigmentation, you’ll always be prone to it. But it can fade, as long as you minimise your exposure to the sun.

Living in Florida, staying out of the sun completely isn’t realistic – nor do I want it to be. I love the outdoor lifestyle too much. It’s part of who I am, and my routine, and while I know that exposure will prevent my pigmentation from fading completely – I refuse to let the fear of it stop me from living my life. I’m cautious, but I take a total "YOLO" approach: I love the sun, and I’m going to enjoy it, while being super strategic about how I repair and protect my skin.

My daily skincare routine for fading dark spots and melasma

Over years of testing products, I've found that a consistent mix of vitamin C, retinol and LED therapy makes a huge difference in keeping mine minimised. My morning routine is centred on protection and prevention. I apply a vitamin C serum every morning to help brighten and repair. I love the Murad Vita-C Glycolic Serum, which has the double benefits of brightening vitamin C and smoothing glycolic acid.

If I'm just working at home and running quick errands in the car, I don't mind wearing a lower SPF 30 like e.l.f. Woah Glow, which has a gorgeous built-in tint, too. But if I’m choosing to be out in the sun for prolonged periods, an SPF 50 is non-negotiable. I love formulas by SkinCeuticals, COSRX, or No.7. Their new Prime Forever SPF 50 is brilliant under makeup. If I want extra coverage, I’ll use a foundation base with built-in SPF 50 too – Naked Sundays are brilliant.

At night, my focus shifts entirely to repair. Advanced aesthetic nurse practitioner Emma Wedgwood,notes that "the skin’s natural repair processes continue overnight, making an evening routine a good opportunity to use targeted active ingredients." She recommends using serums containing ingredients like niacinamide and azelaic acid, while ones with retinoids deliver deeper results. “Retinoids can be more effective but should be introduced gradually – perhaps start with two nights a week initially. The key is not to overload the skin: introduce one active at a time and increase frequency slowly."

I currently use my favourite retinal, Medik8’s Crystal Retinal 10, about four nights a week to help fade dark spots over time. However, I’m extra cautious; if I know I have a long day in the sun the following day, I skip it as they can make your skin extra sensitive to the sun.

Alongside these actives, LED light therapy is another step in my routine that really helps. While it takes a conscious effort to make it a daily habit, using red light at home calms underlying inflammation that sun exposure can exacerbate, and as Wedgwood explained, it has been proven to help cells recover and heal after a day in the sun. "At-home LED devices may help support overall skin recovery," she explains, adding that they work best alongside targeted skincare rather than as a standalone fix for pigmentation.

Why do dark spots and pigmentation show up after a summer holiday?

It turns out there was a scientific reason for this slow creep of sun damage. If you’ve ever come home from a holiday only to notice dark patches cropping up weeks later, you aren't imagining things. Wedgwood explains that pigmentation is actually a delayed reaction. "UV exposure activates melanocytes, the pigment-producing cells in the skin, causing them to produce and distribute more melanin as a protective response," she explains.

"Unlike an immediate tan, this process does not happen all at once, Wedgwood continues. "New pigment can continue developing over several days and may become more noticeable once the surrounding tan begins to fade, which is why uneven patches often seem to appear after you return home."

She adds that heat and inflammation can further stimulate conditions like melasma, bringing previously subtle spots to the surface weeks after exposure.

The post-holiday reality check: Why you still need SPF when it’s cloudy

And if you’re reading this in the UK thinking grey autumn skies mean you can put your sunscreen away, Wedgwood offers a bit of a reality check. "UV radiation still penetrates cloud cover, and pigmentation-prone skin can remain particularly reactive to it," she tells me. "Skipping SPF once the weather feels cooler or less sunny is one of the most common reasons pigmentation treatment plans stall. I would recommend a broad-spectrum SPF 30 or above every day, all year round, regardless of how grey the sky looks."

How long does it take to fade pigmentation?

Fading pigmentation takes time, and Wedgwood stresses that most people need "around eight to 12 weeks of consistent treatment before they see a noticeable improvement," with daily SPF being the single biggest factor in keeping it from returning.

At the end of the day, loving the outdoors and protecting your skin don't have to be at odds. As Wedgwood sums up, "You don’t need to avoid the sun entirely, but it is important to enjoy it sensibly. Seek shade during the strongest midday hours, apply a broad-spectrum SPF and reapply it every two hours when outdoors... Enjoying the outdoors and protecting your skin are not mutually exclusive."

That’s me back off to the beach then…

My job, as a beauty editor, is completing a series of mini missions. It’s my responsibility to find the best facial sunscreens that sit nicely under makeup, and test the best hair straighteners so you don’t singe your hair to a crisp.

A mini mission I’ve been working on for around three summers now is finding a way to stop my brunette hair from going red in the sun. There’s always a lot of talk about how to care for blonde hair during the summer months. Cool-toned blondes are notoriously prone to UV-induced brassiness, or even a tinge of green when the ends dip into a swimming pool.

Walk into Boots, and there’s a line-up of purple shampoos, conditioners and masks for toning blonde hair ready to remedy the problem. But for brunette hair like mine that takes on a frustratingly warm, unwanted red tone in the sunshine? There’s barely anything that works.

I’ve tried blue shampoos and conditioners, but all they really do is stain my palms and make me look like I might have frostbite. There is one quite expensive green mask that takes the edge off, but only for a wash or so. But then, a clever, affordable buy came along that changed everything.

After a pre-summer colour appointment where I left the salon with a much warmer-toned brunette than I hoped for, I ordered Osmo Colour Revive Mushroom Colour Conditioner on a whim. I wanted a solution, and ideally a solution with next-day delivery.

I tried it almost as soon as the delivery driver handed over the package. The instructions recommend you apply evenly to towel-dried hair, or to dry hair for a more intense finish, for between three and ten minutes. I just did a small section of dry hair to begin with, in case it went terribly wrong, and left it on for four minutes.

Once the timer went off I rinsed it through and dried my hair to find that it was a much cooler brown. The shade is described as mushroom, and it definitely has that earthy tone to it. I was really chuffed, so I got straight in the shower to apply the mask all over. The end result was a bit darker than I might have predicted, and it pretty much covered up all of my lighter balayage pieces, but there wasn’t even a hint of redness in sight – mission complete.

I used the mask for the next two washes, and have kept it up every two weeks since to stop red tones from creeping in throughout the summer. If I use it too regularly, my hair can end up quite dark, but easing off for a few shampoos remedies that.

I like that it’s quick and easy to use, and saves me a lot of time, money and effort compared to visiting the hairdresser for a top-up toner in between my root touch-up appointments. On that front, it doesn’t cover greys, but it does make them slightly less noticeable.

If you’re also someone who finds their hair takes on a red tinge whenever the sun starts shining, or who can’t go without their hat on holiday for fear of undoing all the money they’ve spent at the hairdressers, this mask is truly a must-try.

By now, we're all big fans of French skincare, but if you've spent any time in an Italian farmacia, you'll know their skincare shelves are just as good. They operate on a different level to the average high street chemist - clinical, ingredient-led, and often years ahead of what lands in the UK. MIAMO is one of the brands behind that reputation, and it's now bringing its lab-coat approach to British skin.

MIAMO sits in that pharmacist-formulated, ingredient-first space that brands like SkinCeuticals and Medik8 have made familiar to UK skincare fans - think patented actives, percentages on the label, and routines built more like a treatment plan than a "pick and hope" shelf edit. Where it carves out its own identity is in how far it pushes the personalisation angle: rather than one hero serum for everyone, the brand's whole approach is built around layering multiple targeted serums together, a bit like how the bestselling Korean skincare popularised multi-step routines, but reworked through an Italian clinical lens with a heavier emphasis on published testing data behind each active.

So why is the brand worth trying and which products should you start with? We've laid it all out here...

What to try first

If you want to try the very best bits from the brand, these are the products to try your hand at first...

Why MIAMO is a brand worth knowing

Founded in 2012, MIAMO is still a genuinely family-run business - co-founding pharmacists Dr Elena Aceto di Capriglia and her daughter Dr Camilla D'Antonio lead the brand's scientific direction, while Camilla's brother Giovanni D'Antonio steers things as CEO.

That mother-daughter pharmacist partnership is baked into everything MIAMO makes: this is a brand built by people who formulate for a living, not a marketing team retrofitting a lab coat onto a product line.

What sets MIAMO apart is how far it leans into the "clinical" part of clinical skincare. Every formula goes through clinical, instrumental and dermatological testing, and every production batch is nickel tested - a level of transparency you don't often see spelled out this plainly. The brand has also developed its own patented technologies, including ELPA25® (in the Renewal Peel Serum) and Epigenage®, a complex built around epigenetic research into how genes involved in skin ageing are expressed.

Rather than a one-size-fits-all range, MIAMO works around what it calls the MIAMO System: more than 100 customisable protocols built around a structured six-step routine, designed to be adapted to different skin types, ages and concerns.

Central to this is MIAMO's "Science of Serum Layering" - the idea that instead of picking one hero serum and hoping it does everything, you layer compatible serums in a specific order to target several concerns in the same routine. It's a philosophy that will feel familiar to anyone already deep into K-beauty-style layering, just with an Italian pharmaceutical spin.

Body skincare has always felt like the poor relation to our face routines. We'll happily layer up our best retinol serums and vitamin C serums for our complexions, then reach for whichever moisturiser is closest to hand for everything below the neck - even though crepiness, stretch marks and lost firmness bother most of us just as much there as they do on our faces. Every so often, though, a product comes along that changes the way we think about that gap.

Right now, that product is Murad's Retinal ReSculpt Body Treatment. Since it launched, the £79 cream has sold out five times, with Murad's global data showing one jar selling every nine minutes - and it's even picked up several beauty awards since its launch, proof that it's not just marketing spin.

Part of the appeal is that it's still the only retinal (not retinol) body treatment on the market, tackling cellulite, stretch marks, crepey skin and sagging in as little as four weeks. But what actually is retinal, and is it worth swapping into your body care routine? Here's everything you need to know.

Retinal vs retinol: what's the difference?

If you're a skincare regular, you'll know retinol well - it's one of the most researched anti-ageing ingredients around, working by speeding up cell turnover and boosting collagen production. Retinal (short for retinaldehyde) is a step further along in the vitamin A conversion process, which means skin can use it more directly and, in theory, see results faster than with retinol.

In Murad's Retinal ReSculpt Body Treatment, the retinal is encapsulated - essentially wrapped in a delivery system designed to release it gradually and reduce the irritation retinoids are often known for. That's paired with an "Exerkine-inspired" complex of milk thistle and bearberry extract, ingredients chosen to echo the compounds the body naturally releases during exercise, plus shea butter, avocado extract and squalane for hydration. Unlike some retinol formulas, there's no percentage strength to work out or build up gradually - you simply apply it at night as part of your normal routine.

Does it actually work?

With a stream of five-star reviews, it's safe to say users are loving it. "This cream is worth every penny," wrote one user. "It works. My skin has never looked better. And I can see such a difference on my stomach."

"Have only been using for a week but already noticing a difference on the crepey skin on my arms," wrote another, while one stated, "Simply brilliant". Even experts across the industry have been raving about it.

That said, it's worth setting expectations. Retinal, like any retinoid, works gradually and won't dramatically reshape the body or eliminate cellulite and loose skin altogether - it's a texture-and-firmness treatment, not a substitute for professional body treatments if that's what you're after. Anyone using it should also apply SPF over treated areas during the day, as with any vitamin A product.

Who should try it - and how to use it

Murad recommends focusing application on the areas prone to crepiness and dimpling: thighs, chest, elbows, knees, the backs of the arms and the abdomen. It's designed for nightly use, though anyone with sensitive skin might want to start at two to three times a week and build up.

At £79 for 148ml, it isn't cheap for a body cream, but a little goes a long way, and Murad currently offers free standard shipping on orders over £30, plus two complimentary deluxe samples with every order from murad.co.uk.

Selfridges has taken the guesswork out of building your skincare routine with their limited-edition K-beauty box, which makes home to an impressive 8-step regime.

Korean skincare products have been rising in popularity throughout recent years, and for good reason too, thanks to their science-backed formulas that focus on long-term skin health – while boasting affordable price tags.

Fortunately, Selfridges has been taking note with the launch of their limited-edition K-Beauty Skincare Kit. Jam-packed with some of the most popular Korean products on the market right now, this edit not only makes for a great gift but also for those who want to treat themselves – and saves you money in the process.

What's inside the Selfridges K-Beauty Skincare Kit?

From one of the best cleansers to a bestselling Korean face mask, take a peek inside this limited-edition Selfridges edit to find out exactly what you can expect to unbox...

• Anua 100+ PDRN Hyaluronic Acid Capsule 100 Serum 30ml
• haruharu wonder Black Rice Probiotics Barrier Essence 120ml
• Biodance Bio-Collagen Real Deep Mask – Single, 34g
• Mixsoon Bean Eye Cream 20ml
• Laneige Glaze Craze Tinted Lip Serum - Strawberry Sprinkles, 12g
• Innisfree Green Tea Amino Acid Cleansing Foam 30ml
• Medicube Collagen Jelly Cream 50ml
• Dr.Jart+ Ceramidin Skin Barrier Moisturising Cream 15ml

Where to buy the Selfridges K-Beauty Skincare Kit

If you want to snap up The K-Beauty Skincare Kit, you'll want to head to the Selfridges website to add it to your virtual basket. With your purchase, you'll get to enjoy the complimentary click and collect service to a chosen store near you. If you'd like it delivered to your door, standard delivery will set you back £6.95, while nominated day delivery (when you place your order before 10pm) will cost you £9.95.

How long is the Selfridges K-Beauty Skincare Kit available for?

While we're still kept in the dark as to how long the Selfridges K-Beauty Skincare Kit will be available for, it is worth noting that is a limited-edition edit so won't be around forever. If you're thinking about snapping it up, it's worth doing so sooner rather than later to avoid missing out.

I get asked about my skincare routine more than almost anything else I write about - on socials, in texts from my friends, by colleagues cornering me in the office kitchen. And while I’ve obviously never been one to gatekeep, I never really thought my routine was anything worth sharing.

But after a recent dryness and hyperpigmentation flare-up had me overhauling the whole thing - focusing on the very best moisturisers for dry skin, my favourite trusty vitamin C serum, and even including some of the best skincare devices of the moment - the results that came with my new routine now make it feel genuinely worth sharing.

My skin has gone in the complete opposite direction from where it was a few months ago: barrier repaired, tone even, and - most tellingly - looking healthy and bright even on the days I'm not wearing a scrap of makeup. I've had so many messages asking what I'm doing differently, and so many compliments in person, that I've decided it's time to stop keeping it to myself. So here it is - the full routine, product by product.

The reparative skincare routine that gave me the best skin of my life - in just 3 weeks

While I had very specific two-product emergency kit that helped my flare-up and were brilliant at firefighting in the moment, once I was back in my own bathroom, I knew I needed to properly rebuild my skin barrier - not just manage the symptoms. So, I put together a stricter, more targeted routine, layering in proper hydrators and actives, to really get me the results I wanted to see. I've shared what I use step-by-step, so you can swap them out for similar alternatives where needed.

Just a few weeks of this new routine left my skin healthy, radiant and with my hyperpigmentation so faded that I could go about my day with just a very light layer of makeup (see below) - more to even out my skin tone than anything.

Alongside, the above routine, I also included a few other products and habits to really get the most out of it.

Once my skin had settled down a little, I noticed there was still a layer of dead, dry skin sitting stubbornly on my chin - the kind that was arguably still contributing to the blotchy, uneven texture, even once the worst of the irritation had calmed. So I introduced weekly sessions of Dermaflash Dermapore device to really exfoliate away all of the dead skin. Since using it, my skin has felt genuinely fresh and healthy, like it's soaking up all the goodness of my new products properly instead of them sitting on top of dry patches - basically a reset button before I layered everything else back on.

The other unexpected hero once my skin started to heal was a primer. Makeup simply wasn't sitting properly on my face for weeks - it would cling to the dry, blotchy patches and look patchy and uneven no matter what I did underneath. The Kate Somerville HydraKate Power Plumping Primer not only smoothes things out enough for makeup to sit evenly again, but it adds an extra layer of hydration that lasts all day.

Katherine Jenkins has built a career on effortless elegance, on stage and off it, so when she reveals what's actually behind her skin, people listen. And it turns out it's not just a stellar facial sunscreen or the best moisturiser on the market she's relying on.

In a new video shared to her Instagram page, the classical star walked fans through the routine she uses religiously at the end of the day: the LYMA Laser PRO, followed by LYMA's newly launched Power Youth Duo.

It's a routine she says she uses every single evening, and one she credits with leaving her skin "incredibly dewy and hydrated" - a specific, tangible result rather than a vague promise of "glowing skin."

The original LYMA Laser was already a favourite of the woman&home tea, but the LYMA Laser PRO is the brand's flagship at-home device, a cordless, handheld laser that Katherine glides over cheeks and jaw for a few minutes each night. LYMA has paired it with the Power Youth Duo, a serum and cream co-developed with surgeons and geneticists, positioned to work alongside the laser to target what LYMA calls the five key mechanisms of skin ageing: dehydration, barrier breakdown, oxidative stress, microbiome disruption and loss of structural integrity.

For anyone whose evening skincare has stalled into the same three products on rotation, it's worth understanding what's actually happening here, and why it's resonated with someone whose job depends on how her skin holds up under stage lighting.

What is the LYMA Laser Pro?

The LYMA Laser PRO is the only FDA-cleared clinic-grade laser built for home use, using low-level laser therapy to reach the base layer of the dermis. LYMA's own claims are bold: results that rival an in-clinic laser facial, targeting wrinkles, elasticity, scars, redness and pigmentation, with no pain and no downtime. It's designed to be used for just a few minutes a day, which is presumably what makes it workable for someone with a schedule as packed as Katherine's.

It isn't a small investment. The device retails at £4,995, positioning it as one of the best skincare devices that's firmly in the "aspirational, not impulse-buy" category for most readers - a point worth being upfront about rather than glossing over.

What's in the Power Youth Duo?

The Power Youth Duo is LYMA's newer skincare launch, sold as a serum-and-cream pairing rather than as single items. Where the laser targets deeper skin structure, the topical products are designed to work on the surface, layering in hydration and barrier support that LYMA says compounds the laser's effects over time.

What's notable about Katherine's video isn't just the products themselves, but the framing: this is presented as a low-effort, high-impact evening ritual rather than an elaborate multi-step routine. For LYMA, pairing its highest-spec laser with a two-product skincare system is a clear pitch to reduce routine fatigue while still charging a premium price point. For Katherine, it's an easy story to tell - glowing skin, minimal fuss, no downtime before a performance.

Whether the results live up to the claims is something we'd want to test for ourselves rather than take LYMA's word for it, but as a snapshot of what's currently occupying the top end of the beauty device market, it's a useful one.

We're all getting better with this sunscreen thing, aren't we? By which I mean, buying factor 50, not 15, wearing it at home as well as on holiday and generally moving away from the mindset that getting a 'bit of colour' on your flesh (be that bronze or rouge) is the sole goal of summer life.

Anecdotally, I've been asked what the best facial sunscreen is a lot this summer. Family, friends, new party pals when it gets to 'what do you do' time - they've all been at it. So it's clear the message is getting through. But if I had to guess, I'd say we may be letting ourselves down with reapplication.

Ok I don't need to guess; I know because until I found this tiny, sheer and, may I say, adorable SPF50 I found topping up a total drag too. Messed-up makeup, stained clothes and sticky hands - who'd have 'em? Not me anymore, and not you either, because here's the fix.

This being the notorious LRP, one of my all-time favourite French skincare brands, you can bet the protection is robust and reliable. It's SPF50+ with added UVA filters, and contains antioxidants Vitamin E and Astaxanthin, which help shoo away damaging environmental particles in things like smoke, pollution and, yes, the sun.

Given its size, you'd have an uphill battle trying to use this as your all-over body sunscreen. But it is a lifesaver for a quick additional slick on particularly sun-sensitive areas (always the shoulders for me), or bits that you realise you've missed after you leave the house (feet!)

This brand does a roaring trade with people who have skin conditions like eczema and psoriasis because all the best La Roche Posay products are rigorously tested. So if you have a particular flavour of skin sensitivity, this would almost certainly be acceptable.

It's also great for SPF-averse kids, as I've discovered, who seem to accept a stick far more readily than a lotion, if you can catch them for long enough to swipe it on. Sounds good? Great! Let's chat next Sunday.

I've had holiday skin before - the odd dehydrated patch, a bit of dullness from too many airport hours and not enough water. But nothing prepared me for what happened to my face on a family trip to Canada this summer. By day three, my skin wasn't just dry. It was tight, blotchy, and had broken out in an actual rash.

Whether it's mini break beauty essentials or a curated carry-on toiletry bag that'll last you, I'm no stranger to packing light and smart when it comes to skincare - decanting my usual routine into minis and travel sizes so I'm not getting an overweight verdict that'll cost me half my ticket price. This time was no different. What I didn't bank on was quite how much my skin would protest at the change, or how fast things would spiral from "a bit tight" to "visibly angry."

By the end of the trip, I'd landed on a two-product combination that calmed everything down almost overnight - and it's now a permanent fixture in my washbag, holiday or not.

What caused my skin to flare-up?

It was definitely a mix of different factors. For context, I packed a toiletry bag of minis and travel-friendly beauty bits to try and replicate my at-home routine as closely as possible, while keeping my luggage under the weight limit. I stuck to my basics: toner, hyaluronic acid serum (though it was noticeably thinner than the one I use at home), an active serum (rotating through antioxidant, retinol, niacinamide and collagen depending on the day), a lightweight moisturiser, and one of my best facial sunscreens.

What I didn't pack was anything more nourishing - no balms, no facial oils, no rich moisturisers. Looking back, I think that was the problem. Your skin barrier - the outermost layer made up of skin cells held together by a "mortar" of lipids, including ceramides, cholesterol and fatty acids - relies on that lipid matrix to keep moisture in and irritants out. Swap out every product feeding that barrier at once, and you're essentially asking it to adapt to a whole new set of ingredients and formulas overnight, without any of the richer, more occlusive steps it might have been quietly relying on at home to stay balanced.

Add in the change in water and biome, a different diet, and the dehydrating effects of long-haul travel, and it's a lot for a barrier to cope with in one go - even when every individual product is "gentle" on paper.

I also think my travel toner (the Dr. Hauschka Facial Toner) simply wasn't hydrating enough compared with the hydrating, milky essences I usually reach for at home, so I lost one of my usual barrier-supporting steps without realising it. On top of that, aeroplane cabin air is typically far drier than what our skin is used to on the ground, which can accelerate water loss before a trip has even properly started. I was also using a different body wash in the shower for the week, wearing more makeup than usual thanks to a few family events - both potential sources of extra irritation on skin that was already working overtime - and staying in a house that's air-conditioned 24/7, which strips moisture from the air (and in turn, the skin) in a way I'm just not used to at home.

How my skin reacted

It didn't take long, over the course of the trip, for my skin to start protesting. Within a couple of hours of doing my skincare each day, it would feel uncomfortably dry and tight again - the only thing that offered any relief was slathering on more serum or cream, which would hold things together for an hour or two before the cycle started over.

Then it went further than just tightness. My skin turned visibly dry, and a blotchy red rash appeared across certain areas. Hyperpigmentation crept in around my mouth and chin, and I even developed a blotchy hyperpigmentation rash on my neck - somewhere I'd never had a reaction before. This tracks with how post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation tends to work: when skin is repeatedly irritated or inflamed, it can trigger extra melanin production in that area as part of the skin's response, leaving behind patches of discolouration once the initial irritation has calmed. A compromised barrier is also more reactive to UV exposure, which likely didn't help around my jawline and neck given how much time we spent outside.

How the emergency kit fought back

Once I admitted my "lightweight, on-the-go" routine wasn't cutting it, I switched tactics. Every time my skin started to flare, I reached for the Illiyoon Ceramide Ato Concentrate Cream first, pressing it into the tight, rash-prone areas to try to calm and re-barrier my skin. Wherever things looked particularly sore or dry - especially around my mouth, chin and neck - I'd follow up with a layer of the La Roche-Posay Cicaplast Balm B5, using it almost like a protective mask on top.

It wasn't an instant fix, and it didn't undo the hyperpigmentation while I was away, but it was the first thing that actually held the dryness and rash at bay for longer than an hour or two. By the time I flew home, the redness had calmed considerably, even if my skin was still clearly out of sorts.

It makes sense when you break down what each product is doing on a barrier level. The Illiyoon cream is dense with ceramides, which are a direct replacement for the lipids my barrier had been losing throughout the trip - essentially topping up the "mortar" between skin cells so moisture stops escaping so easily. The Cicaplast Balm B5, meanwhile, works more like scaffolding: panthenol supports the skin's own repair process, madecassoside calms visible inflammation, and the balm's occlusive texture sits on top to physically slow trans-epidermal water loss while everything underneath gets a chance to recover. Used together, one is feeding the barrier and the other is protecting it while it heals - which is likely why the combination worked faster than either product on its own.

If your go-to skincare routine isn't delivering the same radiance it once did, you're not imagining things. As skin matures in our 40s and beyond, natural moisture levels drop, and cell turnover slows. This often leads to dullness, enlarged pores, and stubborn sun spots – particularly along the cheekbones.

So, when a product promises to address these specific concerns all at once without causing irritation, our beauty team takes note. That is exactly what drew us to Anua’s Niacinamide 10% + TXA 4% Serum, which is currently being hailed as one of the best Korean beauty products on the market. Dubbed the ‘pink elixir’ by fans, this viral K-beauty blend is formulated to revive dull, dry complexions and fast-track that coveted, luminous "glass skin" look.

Naturally, we had to see if the hype held up on mature skin. We asked Jenny Church, a 48-year-old member of our Tester Network, to switch it into her daily routine. While true pigment correction takes a few weeks of consistent use, Jenny noticed a dramatic shift in her skin’s hydration and texture in just seven days.

Here is her honest review.

Anua Niacinamide 10 + TXA 4: At a glance

First impressions

The joy of using a luxury skincare product can quickly be ruined by disappointing packaging. It’s not just about aesthetics, either – a leaky bottle or an inefficient design can turn a fabulous formula into a total chore to use.

Fortunately, Anua avoids these pitfalls entirely. This was Jenny’s very first time trying the brand, and the premium presentation impressed her straight away.

"First impressions: lovely packaging and a really good quality bottle topper," she noted.

The sturdy pipette applicator allows for precise dispensing, ensuring you get the exact amount of product needed without any wasteful mess.

"One week on, and there is absolutely no leaking or seeping from the dropper, which is brilliant."

The 7-day test

Jenny integrated the serum into her routine twice a day, applying it morning and night. Having volunteered to test the product specifically to address recent age spots and a generally dull, uneven complexion, she was delighted by the instant comfort it provided.

"I tried it after removing my makeup the first night and immediately felt like my skin needed it," she said. "My skin just drank it up!"

For mature skin types naturally prone to moisture loss, rapid absorption is key. Thanks to the moisture-boosting duo of hyaluronic and polyglutamic acids, the serum leaves the complexion feeling instantly refreshed and cushiony – creating a smooth canvas for your morning makeup or evening creams.

The results

Hyperpigmentation is famously stubborn; skincare experts agree that fading dark spots typically takes four to six weeks of dedicated use. However, after just seven days, Jenny was already impressed by the visible shift in her skin's overall vitality and texture.

"I am 48 and have developed a lot of age spots in recent years, particularly around my cheekbone areas, and my skin has been looking a bit dull and uneven," she noted. "Although it’s too soon to tell the impact on the age spots, I have definitely noticed an overall improvement in my skin’s texture and plumpness."

The verdict

If you're looking to explore the benefits of K-beauty with a non-irritating daily serum that restores bounce, imparts a beautiful glow, and steadily works to unify skin tone, the Anua Niacinamide 10% + TXA 4% Serum is well worth a spot in your shopping basket.

The ultimate proof lies in its long-term consistency, but it has already earned a permanent place in Jenny’s bathroom cabinet.

"I will definitely keep using it and would recommend it for anyone looking to brighten, tighten, and improve skin texture," she added.

Key ingredient benefits

What makes the formulation inside this little pink bottle particularly brilliant for women over 40 is its targeted, dual-action approach. Rather than relying on a single ingredient, it combines a powerhouse mix of dermatologist-approved active brighteners with comforting hydrators that actively support the skin barrier.

• 10% Niacinamide: Also known as Vitamin B3, this multitasking saviour visibly brightens the complexion while refining the appearance of enlarged pores.
• 4% Tranexamic Acid (TXA): A heavyweight ingredient celebrated for evening out deep-set discolouration and stubborn sun damage.
• 2% Arbutin: A plant-derived antioxidant that illuminates the skin and unifies tone.
• Hyaluronic Acid: A heavy-lifting humectant that draws moisture deep into the skin for long-lasting hydration.
• Polyglutamic Acid: A powerful moisture-retaining peptide that encourages a bouncy, plumped skin barrier effect.

How to use the Anua serum

To get the best results, slot the serum into your daily ritual like this:

• When to Use: ☼ AM and ☽ PM.
• Order: Apply immediately after cleansing to clean, dry skin.
• Application: Dispense a few drops using the controlled pipette and gently pat into the face.
• Next Steps: Follow with your favourite moisturiser, and always finish with a high SPF in the morning to protect your skin and prevent future dark spots.

We all know the rule: reapply SPF every two hours. And we all, if we're honest, largely ignore it. Because who's really going to rub even the best facial sunscreen over a full face of makeup at 2pm in the middle of a heatwave?

It's a habit worth breaking, though. "The reality is that your skin needs the same level of protection at home as it does abroad whenever UV levels are high, so daily SPF and regular reapplication should be part of your routine, not just something you do on holiday," says Anel Lamine, Skin and Skincare Expert, Facialist and Owner of Skin By Anel Lamine. "The most important step is applying a broad-spectrum SPF and reapplying it regularly throughout the day. Sunscreen won't completely eliminate sun damage, but it significantly reduces your risk."

So what's the best way to reapply? Well if you're going for as little disruption to your look as possible, SPF mist. They promise the thing cream SPF can't: a way to top up protection without wrecking your base. But there's a catch the category doesn't always own up to, and it's one worth knowing before you rely on a mist to do the heavy lifting.

The sunscreen mistake almost everyone is making

Spray sunscreens are only ever as good as how you apply them, and dermatologists have flagged this for years. Hold the bottle too far from your skin, spray too quickly, or give it one quick pass instead of two, and you can end up with a fraction of the SPF stated on the bottle. Some studies suggest people apply as little as half the sunscreen needed to get anywhere near the protection promised on the label.

"I recommend a broad-spectrum SPF product every morning, applying enough and reapplying every two hours if you're outdoors," says Dr Ginni Mansberg, Founder of ESK Evidence Skincare. And the stakes of skipping this are higher than a bit of extra sun exposure. "If you're not wearing SPF regularly, your skin is more likely to burn, especially if you're using active ingredients such as retinol, which can be irritating and compromise the skin barrier," Lamine warns.

That's not a reason to abandon your SPF mist. It's a reason to actually use it properly. According to makeup and skincare brand Sculpted by Aimee, these are the best steps to ensure maximum spf coverage:

• Hold the bottle close to your skin - not at arm's length. A few centimetres away, not a foot.
• Go over each area at least twice, in criss-cross passes rather than one quick spritz and done.
• Treat it as a genuine reapplication step, not a "just in case" spritz you do on your way out the door.

And crucially: your base SPF, applied properly in the morning, is still doing the real work. The mist is there to top it up every two hours, not replace it.

Why mists have actually gotten better

If your idea of an SPF mist is still a setting spray that happens to have SPF tacked on, it's worth revisiting. Older formulas in this category were often built more for "finish" than "function" - a light veil that made you feel like you'd done something, without necessarily delivering proper protection.

Newer formulas have moved the category on considerably. Sculpted by Aimee's Sun Mist SPF50 is a good example of where things are heading: a fine, even mist head designed to distribute product properly rather than in the heavy droplets that make some sprays feel more like a face full of water than sunscreen, skin-barrier ingredients like Vitamin E and apricot oil so reapplying doesn't feel like a chore halfway through a hot day, and a genuinely invisible finish that sits over or under makeup without disturbing it.

It's broad-spectrum UVA/UVB protection, which matters - plenty of "SPF-adjacent" setting sprays on the market aren't. There's also a body version, Sun Mist SPF30 Body Spray, for anyone wanting the same top-up approach on shoulders, chest and arms, which are so often the areas we forget entirely.

It's not a coincidence that sales of Sun Mist SPF50 rose over 400% through the recent UK heatwaves. It tracks with what we're seeing across the beauty industry more broadly: people aren't just looking for another product recommendation, they're looking for the "how do I actually do this without ruining my makeup" answer.

An SPF mist genuinely can be a proper reapplication step, not just a feel-good spritz - but only if you're using it right. Hold it close, go over each area twice, and treat those two-hourly top-ups as non-negotiable, especially in this heat.

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.

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.

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.

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

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.

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...

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.

Should you moisturise before a spray tan? It's one of those beauty questions that sounds simple, yet regularly trips people up – myself included.

Before one appointment, I meticulously prepped my skin, exfoliating in the shower before sealing everything in with a nourishing body lotion, convinced it would create the ideal canvas for an even glow. Instead, when I rinsed away the guide colour, there was barely any tan left beneath it.

As it turns out, my well-intentioned pre-tan routine was exactly the problem. "You should arrive at your appointment free of any product on the skin," says Michaella Bolder, celebrity facialist and tanning expert. "This includes your best body moisturiser, oils, deodorant, perfume or sprays." According to Bolder, these products can create a barrier that stops the tanning solution from developing evenly. Award-winning tanning artist James Harknett agrees, adding that "the only areas that should be moisturised are the naturally dry parts of the body."

So, if moisturiser is off the cards before a spray tan, how do you stop colour clinging to dry patches or fading unevenly? We asked the experts to explain exactly how to prep your skin before your appointment, which products to avoid and the small tweaks that will help your glow develop evenly and last for longer.

When should you moisturise before a spray tan?

"Moisturise in the days leading up to your spray tan to keep your skin in great condition, but on the day of your appointment, your skin should be completely free from moisturiser, deodorant and any other skincare products," says Harknett. "You shouldn't apply moisturiser all over your body before a spray tan, as it can create a barrier that prevents the tanning solution from developing evenly."

There is one important exception. If you regularly buy skincare for dry skin, or have areas prone to clinging onto colour, a small amount of lightweight, oil-free moisturiser can actually help create a more even finish. "The only areas that should be moisturised are the naturally dry parts of the body, such as the knees, elbows, heels, hands and feet," says Harknett. "These areas tend to be much drier than the rest of the body, so they absorb more tanning solution and can end up looking darker and patchy if they're left unprotected."

Bolder agrees, recommending an aloe vera-based lotion if your skin is particularly dry. "The tanning artist will then moisturise any dry areas with the correct formula and where they feel it is necessary."

How should you prepare your skin before a spray tan?

"Exfoliating and removing unwanted hair (be it waxing vs shaving) is best performed around 24 hours before a fresh tan to allow the skin to settle," says Bolder. She adds that freshly waxed or over-exfoliated skin can become irritated, making it difficult to achieve an even result.

On the day itself, less is more. Harknett recommends taking a cool shower beforehand to remove any lingering perspiration or product residue, ensuring your skin is completely clean and dry before your appointment. That means skipping deodorant, perfume and body lotion until after your tan has fully developed.

What products should you avoid before a spray tan?

“The biggest mistake is arriving with products still on the skin," says Harknett. “Anything left on the skin can act as a barrier and affect how evenly the tan develops.” Bolder says it's particularly important to avoid rich creams, body oils, shower oils and petroleum-based formulas, as well as products containing mineral oil or silicone, which can prevent the tanning solution from adhering properly.

It's also worth pausing active bodycare before your appointment. "Avoid any exfoliating products on the skin before applying a fresh layer of tan," says Bolder. "This includes retinoids and chemical exfoliants, as they disrupt the skin barrier and can create an uneven – or even invisible – tanning finish."

How do you make a spray tan last longer?

"Once the tan has fully developed and you've completed the first rinse, head straight in with a daily moisturiser," says Bolder. "It really is one of the best ways to prolong your tan. Hydrated and healthy skin sheds slower than dehydrated skin, so the tanned skin cells remain intact for longer."

Harknett explains that because spray tan develops within the outer layer of dead skin cells, keeping skin hydrated slows the natural shedding process, helping colour fade more gradually and evenly. He recommends opting for a lightweight, water-based lotion rather than an oil-based formula, as oils can break the tan down more quickly.

To keep your glow looking fresh, Bolder also recommends gently exfoliating with an oil-free exfoliator after around three days, encouraging the colour to fade evenly rather than becoming patchy.

Every single heatwave, my skin does something that makes absolutely no sense on paper: my hands, which are normally clammy enough I can't even wear gloves in the winter, suddenly go bone dry; my legs, which usually only need a moisturiser top-up in winter, start feeling tight and papery by mid-afternoon; and my lips crack like it's the middle of January, not the height of summer.

If you're nodding along, you're not imagining it, and you're definitely not alone. Hot weather doesn't just mean more sweat and slathering on more of your best facial sunscreen - it can genuinely dry your skin out. It sounds counterintuitive, but a heatwave creates the perfect conditions for moisture loss. Here are the three products helping me this summer...

My top picks for hydrated skin

Why does skin go dry in a heatwave?

Higher temperatures speed up water evaporating from the surface of your skin, and if you're sweating more, you're also losing fluid and salt that your skin needs to stay balanced - which is exactly why my normally sweaty palms flip into dry mode the second the temperature climbs.

Then there's what we do to survive the heat, which often makes things worse. I have a my best cooling fan blowing on me for most of the day at my desk, and while it's the only thing keeping me sane, constant airflow across the skin accelerates evaporation in exactly the same way it cools a cup of tea faster - it's pulling moisture off my legs before they get the chance to hold onto it. Air conditioning does something similar on a bigger scale: it strips humidity from the air in the room, which means it's also pulling moisture out of your skin, hour after hour, without you noticing until it's tight, flaky or uncomfortable.

Add in more frequent showers, higher SPF turnover, and lips left unprotected while everyone's focus goes on faces and shoulders, and it's easy to see why heatwave skin can end up needing more care, not less.

While a heatwave tends to have us changing up all of our routines - from how we sleep to what we make for dinner and even the journey we take for our commute (AC only please) - there's one area we tend to forget about that definitely needs some attention: our skincare routines.

The best vitamin C serums, AHA exfoliants and retinol creams and serums are the backbone of most modern routines, and rightly so. But carrying on with a winter skincare routine straight through a heatwave can be damaging, and using these hardworking actives in a certain way when the sun is at its strongest, can be doing more harm than good, leaving you with the dark patches and uneven tone you were trying to treat in the first place.

"While active ingredients such as Vitamin C, AHAs and retinol can deliver fantastic results, they need to be used carefully during periods of intense sun exposure or a heatwave," says Joanne Evans, Skin Expert & Founder of Skin-Matters. "The biggest concern isn't necessarily the ingredient itself, but what it does to the skin barrier and how vulnerable that can leave your skin when exposed to UV radiation."

The issue is something called post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, or PIH. Actives work by speeding up cell turnover or exfoliating the skin’s surface, which is brilliant for texture and glow, but it also leaves skin more reactive and less able to defend itself against UV. Add strong sun into that mix and you get inflammation, and inflammation is what triggers melanocytes into overproducing pigment. The result is dark patches that can take months, sometimes longer, to fade. So what can you do to avoid this? We spoke to the experts to find out.

The heatwave hyperpigmentation mistake you could be making

"Many people assume stronger sunshine simply means they need to wear more SPF, but it's equally important to think about what's in your skincare routine," warns Dr Richard Devine, aesthetic doctor and founder of Devine Clinic. "Ingredients such as retinol, AHAs and, in some cases, vitamin C can make the skin more vulnerable if they're not used correctly alongside diligent sun protection. When UV levels are high, this increased sensitivity can trigger inflammation, which is one of the key pathways to post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation."

"If you're already prone to pigmentation or melasma, periods of intense sun exposure are when you need to be particularly mindful of active skincare ingredients," adds Caroline Hall, aesthetic nurse and founder of R&R Aesthetics. "Over-exfoliating with acids or using retinol too frequently can compromise the skin barrier, making it easier for UV radiation to trigger excess melanin production. The result can be dark patches that are far more difficult to treat than they are to prevent.

However, Dr Ginni Mansberg, Founder of ESK Evidence Skincare, explains that these skincare ingredients aren't necessarily "unsafe in summer," adding that "it’s worth separating irritation from photosensitivity. Most of these ingredients don’t actually make your skin burn more easily in the sun. Instead, if they’ve disrupted your skin barrier, UV exposure, heat and sweat can make that irritation feel much worse."

So, what should you be doing instead?

"In the heatwave, you don't need to give any actives up completely, just use them more carefully," advises Kimberley Medd, Head of Clinic at Face The Future. "If your skin is becoming more sensitive, drier or more irritated in the heat, use retinol and AHAs in the evening, and cut back to a couple of times a week. Vitamin C is typically best used in the morning under SPF."

However, Medd also reminds us that it's important to pay attention to the health of your vitamin C serum, explaining that "it's unstable in heat and oxidises easily if not stored correctly - and oxidised vitamin C can irritate skin. If the serum has darkened or changed its texture, it's likely oxidised and should be replaced."

If you'd rather avoid these ingredients altogether when the hot weather hits, Evans has some tips for an alternative skincare routine.

"When temperatures soar, I recommend simplifying your routine and focusing on hydration, barrier repair and calming inflammation," advises Evans. "Look for ingredients such as glycerin, panthenol (Vitamin B5), ceramides, ectoin, niacinamide, probiotics and soothing botanical extracts. These help strengthen the skin barrier, reduce redness and keep the skin resilient without increasing sensitivity.

"Hyaluronic acid is great as the heat can cause the skin to become very dehydrated - my favourite is the Bio Effect EGF Serum. I also always recommend my Skin Matters Calming Gel as this multitasking gel works beautifully as a daily hydrator or an overnight calming mask to support radiant, resilient summer skin."

The most important thing? According to Hall, it's to "never underestimate the importance of daily SPF, hats and seeking shade where possible."

Your heatwave skincare kit - straight from the experts...

I spent a fair bit of last week in bed. Struck down by some mystery summer virus, I managed to burn through an impressive variety of unpleasant symptoms - and yes, weather watchers, the heatwave was indeed in full swing. Spicy times!

As you'd expect given the circumstances, my skincare routine was far from the front of my mind. But, having hauled my sorry self to the fridge in search of a chilled ginger shot one sweltering afternoon, a little pink tube winked at me.

I'd stashed said eye serum in the veg crisper, in preparation for the heatwave. And, unlike every other product in my house at that particular moment, applying this one felt, not just feasible, but actively appealing.

Why this cooling, de-puffing eye roller is my beauty buy of the week

Lest I sound as if I'm selling Grace & Stella Cooling Eye Roller as some kind of medicinal tincture, rest assured, this is a skincare product through and through. In fact, it's a very well-formulated eye serum, containing hydrating, energising ingredients, cleverly delivered through a large metal rollerball that massages and depuffs as it goes.

I far prefer using serums around my eyes vs rich creams - and so should you. Even if you have lots of dehydration or lines in the undereye area, the skin is very, very thin and really doesn't like to be smothered in ultra-thick ointments; it can actually make puffiness worse.

Another thing I like about this is that it doesn't over-promise. Even the best eye cream in the world can't firm eye bags up (that'd be surgery) or significantly reduce dark circles (sleep and genetics, I'm afraid). So the fact that this sells itself on simply refreshing and energising is bang on. More of this radical honesty in beauty, please.

As for me, in my sad little heatwave sick bed, rolling this icy elixir on honestly brought me similar levels of relief as my four-hourly ibuprofen hits. But I've continued using it long after the doldrums lifted - as a sub-tenner summer morning hydrator and enlivener, it's pretty unbeatable. Sounds good? Great! Let's chat next Sunday.

Collagen has been a beauty buzzword for a while now. We need it to keep our skin youthful, but levels naturally decrease as we age. And from the age of 20, we start to lose 1% a year. It’s what makes us glow and our skin feel and look plump and hydrated. Some might argue that it’s the master key to turning back the clock.

Now that I've reached my mid-40s, I’m definitely noticing that my collagen levels are decreasing rapidly and I’m not looking as fresh-faced and youthful as I’d like. But how do any of us go about trying to boost our skin if we want to go beyond the multiple options on offer in the supplement and skincare world, but don’t want anything too obvious like filler, or as dramatic as a facelift?

Step forward, Sculptra, a biostimulator injectable, which helps boost the body’s own collagen production to gradually restore lost facial volume (i.e. any sagging) and improve the skin's texture. The best part? It can last up to two years.

What happened when our Editor tried Sculptra

As a newbie to aesthetic treatments, I was initially really nervous about the thought of having anything injected into my face. We’ve all read the horror stories of tweakments going wrong. Puffed-up cheeks, trout pout lips? No thanks. I didn’t want anything like that to happen, and I wanted to be 100% confident in the choice I was making.

But I needn’t have worried. Dr Ashwin Soni, a fully qualified US and UK trained reconstructive surgeon and founder of the award-winning Soni Clinic located in Ascot, Surrey and London, put me immediately at ease when I visited him for my initial consultation. “This is without doubt, the very best product on the market, with incredible and lasting results. I administer Sculptra on average 12 to 15 times a day and it’s changed the lives of so many people,” he reassured me.

“Collagen gradually reduces from a young age and as women enter the perimenopausal years, collagen production reduces by a further 30% within five years. Sculptra is so effective because it encourages your own collagen to start producing again and for some clients, this feels like a more natural alternative," adds Dr Soni, who specialises in understated aesthetic treatments that enhance without looking artificial. “Sculptra has been a game-changer in the aesthetic world and is a great option for people new to the aesthetics scene.”

What is Sculptra and how does it work?

“Sculptra is a regenerative plant-derived collagen biostimulator that stimulates type 1 collagen,” explains Dr Soni. It’s been in use for over 25 years and is the first and original poly-L-lactic acid (PLLA-SCA) injectable that targets fine lines, wrinkles, sagging and other signs of ageing due to collagen loss.

“The poly-L-lactic acid (PLLA-SCA) is injected into the deeper layers of the skin to form a framework that helps support and maintain the skin’s inner structure," Dr Soni adds. “This helps to significantly improve the elasticity and quality of the skin, and can also provide a natural lifting effect, as well as restoring natural volume."

Results can be seen as early as one month after treatment and will last up to two years, revealing natural-looking firmness and improved skin quality, with 95% of patients having improved skin glow for two years afterwards. As well as the face and neck, Sculptra can also be used for the body to treat the décolletage, arms and bottom, too.

What happens during a Sculptra treatment?

After my first consultation, in which Dr Soni explained exactly what to expect, I felt much more comfortable about having the treatment. His clinic is not only professional but has a very calm vibe and almost felt like being in a relaxing spa. The treatment began with me lying down and an anaesthetic cream was applied to each side of my face, on the cheek area. A cold compress was then applied before I was injected with the collagen-regenerative biostimulator.

This procedure can take some practitioners time to administer, with appointments lasting up to an hour, but Dr Soni is speedy and both injections were completed within 25 seconds! To finish, he gave my skin a small massage, using a moisturiser by Alastin Skincare, to ensure that the collagen started to form in a uniformed sheet.

Does Sculptra hurt?

For me, Sculptra didn't hurt at all. This is because a numbing cream is applied to each injection site beforehand, plus the actual injection contains Lidocaine, an anaesthetic, which improves pain and discomfort during the procedure. Dr Soni uses only one injection site on each side of the face; a cannula needle is then able to move around under the skin, depositing tiny amounts of Sculptra at different points in the dermis. The worst you can feel is a little pressure and the very fine needle doesn’t even leave a mark.

What was skin like post-treatment?

I’d told no one what I was doing and when I returned from the appointment, nothing could be seen. No puffiness, redness or bruising. This is a treatment that really could be done in a lunch break!

As for aftercare, it is important to massage your face for five minutes, five times a day for five days post-treatment. “As the collagen starts to form, you want it to form as a uniform sheet rather than small pearls. By massaging, you help the water reabsorb so that any puffiness goes within a day or so,’ explains Dr Soni.

The only thing you can’t do is go for a run in the first 48 hours (what better excuse?) or indulge in a steam or sauna. My skin very quickly felt plumper and more hydrated within three weeks. I’d lost some weight, but instead of looking drawn and saggy, the elasticity in my face improved, bouncing back and feeling more youthful.

How many Sculptra treatments do you need for results?

According to Dr Soni, treatment plans vary for each person. “[The number of sessions] depends on the patient's skin quality and how much elasticity they have lost. It can be anything from three procedures to five, with a four-week gap between each,” he says.

In my case, I had four sessions and am still seeing the results, which can develop over a period of six months. My make-up glides on more easily, my skin feels fresher and without doubt, plumper. A youthful glow has returned, and Dr Soni confirms, “It will only get better. The results will keep activating as each month passes. Maintenance [treatment] one year after your last session is important for longevity, but this lasts for up to two years.”

Six months down the line, I feel more confident about my skin, and friends often comment that I look really well. I no longer look at myself in the mirror and think I appear tired. It’s like my skin has had a welcome drink, and it really shows!

How much does Sculptra cost?

The cost of Sculptra depends on the area treated and the practitioner. At The Soni Clinic, Sculptra starts from £750 per session.

Your 50s can bring about some of the most dramatic changes to your skin, largely thanks to the hormonal shifts that happen during and after menopause.

According to multi-award-winning aesthetic doctor Dr Ana Mansouri, founder of Dr Ana The Skin Clinic, many women notice that skin suddenly feels drier, thinner and less robust than before, while pigmentation, fine lines and loss of firmness also become more visible.

This happens as collagen and elastin production – the skin’s natural source of bounce and resilience – starts to decline more rapidly. “Broken sleep and insomnia are often symptoms of menopause, and this can have a significant impact because sleep is essential for skin repair,” she explains, adding that delicate areas such as the eyes, neck and décolletage often need more attention this decade, too.

With the onslaught of hormonal fluctuations during menopause, you might feel there’s little you can do to improve matters. But despite these changes, it doesn’t mean it’s time to wave the white flag. Instead, it’s about understanding what your skin needs now and giving it the comfort, hydration and care it deserves.

The best skincare routine to follow in your 50s, according to experts

Rather than overloading skin with strong acids or too many active ingredients, Dr Mansouri recommends focusing on hydration, barrier support and consistent SPF application. She warns that “over-exfoliating can weaken the skin barrier, leaving it irritated, dehydrated and more sensitive,” adding that, just as in any other decade of our lives, sun damage remains one of the biggest contributors to collagen breakdown and pigmentation.

You don’t need to spend a fortune or jump into a complicated routine, Dr Mansouri also insists. Instead, she advises tailoring your products to work with skin during and after menopause with ingredients such as ceramides, peptides, hyaluronic acid, richer moisturisers and gentle retinal products.

Hydrating serums, targeted best eye creams and replenishing overnight treatments can also help support repair while we sleep, with Dr Mansouri adding that the biggest improvements often come from consistency and focusing on overall skin health rather than trying to “aggressively anti-age.”

Step 1: Cleanse and comfort

With skin often becoming more reactive and dehydrated during perimenopause and menopause, the focus should shift towards thorough yet gentle cleansing, rather than harsh products or over-exfoliating the skin barrier.

Step 2: Deep hydration and barrier support

As natural oil production declines, skin often craves richer textures and moisture-replenishing ingredients to help restore comfort, bounce and resilience.

Step 3: Tighten up and strengthen

As collagen decline accelerates, peptides and gentle vitamin A products are particularly helpful for maintaining firmness, texture and skin quality in your 50s.

Step 4: Restore radiance and defend skin

Pigmentation and dullness often become more noticeable during menopause, so antioxidant protection and daily application of the best facial sunscreen are essential for helping skin look brighter, fresher and more even-toned.

Step 6: Extra helpers for delicate skin

The thinner skin around the eyes, neck and chest is often one of the first areas to show signs of menopause-related collagen decline, dryness and loss of elasticity, so in your 50s it’s worth investing in products designed specifically for these areas.

The expert’s no.1 in-clinic treatment for skin in its 50s

If she had to choose one approach for women in their 50s, Dr Ana Mansouri says she would opt for a combination of skin boosters and LPG Cellu M6 Infinity®. “Lymphatic drainage is so often overlooked, but it’s essential as a first step in improving overall skin quality,” she explains. Originally developed for physiotherapy, the LPG treatment uses precise cellular stimulation to support lymphatic drainage while also helping calm the nervous system, which can have knock-on benefits for the skin, too.

Dr Mansouri then combines this with regenerative injectable treatments such as Sculptra or polynucleotides, which help improve hydration, tissue repair and collagen stimulation for firmer, healthier and more radiant-looking skin. “The results are incredibly natural, which is something many women in this age group are looking for,” she says.

“Skin tends to look fresher, smoother and more rested without looking overdone.” She adds that they can work particularly well around delicate areas such as the eyes, where skin often becomes thinner and more crepey during menopause and beyond.

If you asked me at the start of the year, my skincare regime would've consisted of 6 thorough steps – yes, I might've fallen into the trap of extensive routines. However, that all changed when I tried Korean beauty.

I'll admit, I actually wasn't all that clued up on the best Korean beauty products a few months back. But since then, I've tried a plethora of formulas which have gone on to replace some of my all-time favourite skincare buys.

So, with every skin expert I've spoken to telling me that I should take a less-is-more approach, now (much to everyone's surprise) my routine simply makes room to just two products. One of the best face moisturisers that nourishes my skin barrier and a calming face serum – that's it.

For context, my skin has always been dull and has never had any natural luminosity to it, but let me tell you, my once lacklustre complexion has been revived by this duo. My skin has quite honestly never looked healthier, appearing brighter, hydrated, radiant and full of life. In fact, I'm putting it all down to these two nourishing Korean skincare buys and cutting back on the amount of products I've been using.

As someone with sensitive, irritation-prone skin, I'm always sceptical about trying new products, but Korean skincare is well-known for being the home of some stellar, kind-to-skin formulas. Take the Purito serum for example, it's enriched with Centella Asiatica, an ancient Korean herb that is known for its restorative properties, or the Illiyoon cream, which is equipped with ceramides – both of which are especially beneficial for sensitive skin types and damaged skin barriers.

So, if you take one thing away from this, it's that less is more when it comes to skincare – oh, and one more thing, K-beauty is certainly worth investing in.

A solid skincare routine is the bedrock of gorgeous, glowing skin. That's why we're here to celebrate the very best skin essentials, innovative formulations and problem-solvers that truly deliver.

Skin is the largest organ in the body, and a great barometer of our overall well-being. So whether you're looking for the best cleanser to suit your skin type, a reliable facial sunscreen, or a super serum, you can cherry-pick from this list knowing that every single product has the woman&home stamp of approval.

With the help of a panel of industry experts, we've put hundreds of washes, creams, tools and treatments to the test, to pick 80 award-worthy winners.

The 2026 woman&home skin awards winners!

Cleansers and exfoliators

Masks

Serums

Moisturisers