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

Skin tools and supplements

Eyes and lips

Problem solvers

Professional treatments

SPF

Bodycare

Special recognition

The woman&home Skin Awards are back, and this year we have 80 winners to announce on Thursday, June 25th!

With an overwhelming amount of skincare available, finding the best products for you can be a challenge. This is why our woman&home Skin Awards exist - we're here to cut through the jargon and encourage you to invest in products that really work.

After weeks of rigorous testing, we finally awarded 80 products with a prestigious Skin Award, including everything from the best eye creams and best vitamin C serums to the best cleansing balms. These awards wouldn't be possible without the time, insight and diligence of our 21 judges, so let us tell you a little more about their impressive credentials.

Meet our 2026 Skin Awards judges

With temperatures soaring across the UK this week, I've been leaning hard on every cooling trick I know - iced coffee in hand, fan on full blast, and, of course, my favourite cooling face mask in the fridge waiting for me.

Along with the cooling foot cream that's made sleeping so much easier this week, the Lumene Nordic Hydra Hydrating Gel Mask has been my heatwave saviour.

I've been using this every summer for a while now, and in a heatwave it genuinely becomes non-negotiable. The good news? It's currently 20% off, down from £24 to £19.60.

That swing between scorching heat outside and aggressively air-conditioned indoors is genuinely brutal for skin - and it shows. By mid-afternoon mine looks dull and feels uncomfortable, and no amount of SPF seems to compensate. This mask is what I reach for to reset.

I'll be honest: the moment I slather this on, it's the closest thing I've found to pressing a cold flannel against your face. That cooling, bouncy gel hits your skin and it immediately feels like relief - especially when you've been sitting in the office all day with the AC cranked up so high your skin feels like it's been in a wind tunnel, or with a fan blowing in your face non-stop that's left your skin feeling parched and tight by 3pm.

The technology behind it is worth understanding, because this isn't just a nice texture with a good marketing story. The formula uses triple hyaluronic acid - three different molecular weights that work at different layers of the skin. The smaller molecules go deeper to deliver plumping hydration, while the larger ones sit on the surface and form a moisture-locking barrier. Nordic birch leaf extract and xylitol work alongside them to help activate skin's own natural ability to stay hydrated, so rather than just topping up moisture temporarily, it's working with your skin to hold onto it.

Clinical testing backs up the brand's 72-hour hydration claim, which is why, on a day when your skin has been battered by AC and heat and a fan that's been going since 8am, applying this in the evening actually makes a difference you can feel the next morning.

I use it two ways depending on how depleted my skin feels. Quick 15-minute mask - generous layer, wipe off the excess, carry on with the rest of my skincare - or, when my skin is really struggling, a thin layer left on overnight as the final step. Either way, I wake up to skin that feels genuinely plumper and more comfortable than if I'd skipped it.

At £19.60 right now with 20% off, it's brilliant value for something that actually delivers. If the heatwave has your skin feeling as frazzled as the rest of you, this is worth grabbing while the deal's on.

More cooling face products to make the heatwave a bit easier

If you want to supercharge your skincare routine with cooling products to get through the 40°c days, here are some more picks that are great for heatwave weather. From a refreshing mist to a soothing mask, these are cooling face products worth trying out this week.

Broadcaster, creative director and Glassette co-founder Laura Jackson has officially entered the beauty space with the launch of ROCCO Beauty, a colourful new skincare brand that landed in Boots stores earlier this week.

I'll admit, my initial reaction was one of scepticism. Not because I don't admire Jackson – her personal Instagram account and homeware platform Glassette have long been a source of interiors inspiration for me – but because beauty brands launched by well-known personalities are hardly in short supply. What could ROCCO possibly offer that we haven't seen before?

The answer, it turns out, is joy. While many skincare brands focus on complicated actives and lengthy 12-step routines, ROCCO has been built around the connection between skin and mood. Every product in the collection features the brand's signature FaceFeels scent, developed using aroma wellness technology and designed to evoke a positive emotional response. Better still, every product comes in at under £20.

I tried Laura Jackson's new ROCCO beauty range – these are the products I'd recommend

Having tested the range ahead of launch (hence the lab sample packaging above) there were several standouts. In fact, it was the formulas, rather than the branding or mood-boosting concept, that impressed me most.

When I met Jackson ahead of the launch back in April, her enthusiasm for the concept was impossible to ignore. “Your skin and your brain are in constant conversation,” she told me. “How you feel affects your skin and how your skin feels and looks affect your mood.” The goal, she explained, was to create skincare that helps people feel good, rather than another brand telling them they're not doing enough.

From the formulations to the branding, every detail has been designed with that feel-good ethos in mind. The packaging is playful and uplifting, with cheerful stripes that bring to mind vintage beach parasols and sun-drenched holidays. It's the sort of skincare you'd happily leave out on display, and it looks far more expensive than its Boots price tag suggests.

One thing that quickly became apparent while speaking to Jackson is that she isn't interested in products that only serve one purpose. "I love things that are multifunctional," she told me. "If I've got a vase, I'll put my flowers in it, I'll use it for my utensils – so why can't we apply this to skincare?"

It's little surprise, then, that ROCCO is home to several multi-taskers. From a 3-in-1 toner-primer hybrid to a glow-boosting essence, the products have been designed to simplify your routine. At the heart of every formula is baobab, a nutrient-rich superfruit chosen for its moisturising properties and with it you’ll find skincare favourites including hyaluronic acid, glycerin, squalane and vitamin E.

Fragrance was always going to be a key part of the ROCCO experience, but not at the expense of the formulas. The uplifting scent is used at a low 1% concentration and the products have been dermatologically tested, including on sensitive skin. "If we're talking to mood, it has to smell good," Jackson told me.

Spray tanning is a polarising treatment. Those who love it, really love it - those who aren't on board tend to have strong feelings in that direction too.

If you've never had a spray tan or have had a bad experience and prefer to stick to your best self tan at home (or none at all), it could be time to reconsider. “I often hear women say, ‘I’m worried I’ll look orange,’ which makes me smile because it’s usually based on memories of tanning from 15 or 20 years ago," says Nicola Matthews, Founder and CEO of Sienna X.

"Modern spray tanning has evolved enormously. After more than two decades in the tanning industry, I’ve noticed that mature women are looking for something different. They want to look healthier, more rested and more confident." If that appeals and you're feeling tempted, consider this your midlife spray tanning cheat-sheet.

Why a spray tan is the ultimate confidence boost for mature skin

Some people see this treatment as only for the young or celebrities, but according to Matthews, mature skin and a spray tan are a match made in heaven. "In your twenties, you often tan to look different. In your fifties and sixties, you tan to look more like yourself on a really good day, " she explains.

"As we age, skin naturally becomes paler, thinner and often develops more variation in tone," Matthews continues. "Veins become more visible, age spots can appear, and areas such as the arms, legs and décolletage may lose some of their natural warmth. A subtle spray tan can visually soften all of those things."

"I’d go as far as saying that a good spray tan is one of the most effective beauty treatments nobody notices. Many women tell us they start wearing less body makeup, can ditch opaque tights, and feel more comfortable showing their arms and legs once they have a natural-looking tan. It’s less about appearance and more about confidence.”

How to achieve a flattering spray tan on mature skin

As with so many things in life, the key to success is in the preparation. "I often compare it to decorating a wall," says Matthews. "If the surface underneath is rough, the finish will never look as beautiful as it could - the same applies to skin." Before you begin, take each of her expert tips into account:

• Speak up: "Choose a therapist you trust and don’t be afraid to discuss exactly what you’re hoping to achieve. A good therapist will customise the shade to suit your natural skin tone and lifestyle.
• Go subtle with shade: Almost every therapist will tell you that the clients who come back happiest are the ones who chose a subtle glow rather than the deepest shade available.
• Plan ahead with prep: Hair removal should ideally be completed 24–48 hours before your appointment, allowing the skin to settle and ensuring a smooth, even canvas.
• Exfoliate, but do it gently: Many women have spent years being told to scrub harder, but mature skin generally responds much better to gentle exfoliation combined with consistent moisturising.
• Double down on your legs: One surprising tip is to pay attention to your lower legs. As we age, this is often where skin becomes driest and where tans can fade unevenly. Spending an extra minute moisturising your shins, ankles and feet in the days before a tan can make a remarkable difference to the final result."

How to stop a spray tan going patchy

You've prepped, been sprayed, and everything's beautiful, bronzed and glowy for a couple of days - but now what? One of the biggest issues with any kind of tan on drier skin types is preventing patchiness and uneven fading. But Matthews has an answer.

“The secret to a beautiful fade isn’t actually the tan itself - it’s hydration, " she reveals. "As we age, our skin naturally holds less moisture, which means it can shed skin cells more unevenly. That’s often the real reason people experience patchiness."

"Daily moisturising is probably the single most effective thing you can do to extend the life of your tan. Twice daily, even. I also recommend avoiding very hot baths, long soaks and anything that strips moisture from the skin. A great tan should gradually disappear without obvious patches or lines. If you’re looking after your skin properly, that’s exactly what should happen.”

At-home tanning tips for mature skin

A spray tan may be the creme de la creme of even, natural-looking tanning, but that's not to say you can't master how to fake tan at home and achieve a great result, too.

When choosing a product, Matthews recommends prioritising hydration above all else, "For mature skin, I always recommend taking a skincare-first approach to tanning. Gradual tanning products are often ideal because they allow you to build colour slowly while keeping skin hydrated and comfortable."

She continues, "For those wanting a deeper result, modern express mousses allow you to customise the depth of colour while still achieving a natural finish. Facial tanning products formulated with skincare ingredients can also be a fantastic option for maintaining radiance without heavy makeup."

Armed with this insight and product recommendations, anyone can achieve a flattering, long-lasting spray tan - and a confidence boost to boot. "The best tan isn’t the darkest one in the room," Matthews concludes, "It’s the one that makes people say, ‘You look amazing,’ without quite knowing why.” And who wouldn't want that?

Once we reach our 40s, we might notice that our skin suddenly looks more tired or uneven – even if we haven’t changed our skincare routine or lifestyle.

According to award-winning aesthetic nurse, Alexandra Mills, who has worked in aesthetic medicine for over a decade, it’s around now that we see the first significant shifts, as collagen production starts to slow and cell turnover becomes less efficient. She says, “Those little lines might start to deepen, while subtle changes in firmness, brightness and facial volume often begin to emerge around the cheeks, eyes and jawline. Hormonal fluctuations and years of accumulated sun exposure may also contribute to dullness, uneven tone and skin that looks more tired or less radiant than before”.

This decade is less about dramatically overhauling your skincare routine and more about giving it a strategic upgrade. Here are the three main ways you can support your skin through this decade and into the next one.

The best skincare routine to follow in your 40s, according to experts

Alexandra recommends focusing on ingredients that support collagen production, hydration and long-term skin health and suggests you might want to think about including retinoids, hyaluronic acid and wearing your best facial sunscreen daily (though hopefully, you’re already on that!). “As collagen production slows and cell turnover decreases, targeting these areas helps maintain a firm, brighter complexion,” she explains.

Alexandra also advises introducing richer moisturisers, antioxidant serums such as vitamin C and targeted treatments around the eyes, while avoiding common mistakes such as over-exfoliating or neglecting SPF. Ultimately, focusing on hydration, barrier support and consistent sun protection in your 40s will help maintain healthy, resilient skin as you age.

1. Protect and brighten

A hardworking antioxidant serum and daily SPF are two of the smartest skincare investments you can make in your 40s.

2. Collagen support and skin firmness

'Collagen banking' has become a buzzword for good reason. Put simply, it refers to investing in your skin early through good skincare, targeted treatments and healthy lifestyle habits, helping to minimise the visible effects of collagen decline as we move into our 40s and beyond. Ingredients such as retinoids and peptides can help improve firmness and keep skin looking smoother and more radiant over time. The good news is that it’s never too late to give collagen levels a helping hand.

Collagen: To supplement or not to supplement?

Here's a quick collagen masterclass to clear up any confusion. Collagen supplements have long divided expert opinion, but many dermatologists and wellness experts now agree they can be a useful addition to a healthy lifestyle as our collagen levels begin to decline. Alongside potential skin benefits such as improved hydration and firmness, they’re also often taken to support joints, hair and nail health. Two regular award-winners include Kollo Health Liquid Marine Collagen, loved for its convenient liquid sachets, and Ancient + Brave True Collagen, a wellness favourite that blends easily into coffee, smoothies or yoghurt.

3. Hydrate and strengthen

Hormonal shifts can leave skin feeling drier, more sensitive and less resilient in your 40s, making hydration and barrier support key priorities in your skincare routine.

What to try in-clinic in your 40s

When asked about her favourite in-clinic treatments for this decade, Mills had two clear favourites. “For women in their 40s, I love combining Croma Revitalis with InMode Morpheus8. Croma Revitalis is a hyaluronic acid skin booster that delivers deep hydration to improve skin elasticity, tone and overall freshness without adding volume like traditional fillers. I often pair this with Morpheus8, which combines microneedling and radiofrequency energy to help tighten skin, stimulate collagen production and target early changes in firmness, texture and fine lines. Together, they work beautifully to leave skin looking fresher, firmer and more revitalised.”

Like most people, when it comes to footcare, I am the textbook definition of "can't be bothered." I'll spend twenty minutes on a skincare routine for my face without batting an eyelid, but ask me to sit down, slather on my best foot cream, wait for it to sink in, and then carefully shuffle to bed without smudging it everywhere, and I'm out. It always feels like a whole production, and I never know when I'm actually supposed to fit it in. Before bed feels too messy (hello, slippery sheets), and during the day is a non-starter when I've got shoes to put on and places to be.

So my heels have always paid the price. By the time sandal season rolls around, they're dry, a bit rough underfoot, and definitely not something I want on display at the first sign of sunshine.

This year, though, something's changed - and it's all down to a product I already had sitting in my bathroom cabinet for an entirely different reason.

The easy 30-second beauty ritual that's replaced my monthly pedicure

The Ordinary's Glycolic Acid 7% Toning Solution is one of those cult-favourite skincare buys that everyone seems to have a bottle of - it's a chemical exfoliant designed to gently buff away dead skin cells and leave your complexion looking brighter and smoother. While I would say it's quite strong for regular use on the delicate skin of my face, the rough, dry areas on my feet, elbows and upper arms are another case entirely.

Here's the bit that sold me: this couldn't be easier to fit in. After getting into bed, I simply swipe a giant cotton pad (easily found on Amazon) soaked in the toner over my heels and the soles of my feet. That's genuinely it. No rubbing in, no waiting around, no greasy residue to worry about transferring onto my sheets - it sinks in and dries within seconds. It's also great for those summer days when you get into bed with less-than-clean feet that you don't want to get all over your sheets.

And the best part? I've only been using it a few times a week - definitely not a strict, disciplined routine - and the difference in my feet has genuinely surprised me. My heels, which are usually visibly dry and a bit flaky by this point in the year, look smoother and feel noticeably softer. There's none of that rough, cracked texture I normally have to disguise with thick socks until I can get to a salon.

It does work best if you finish with a layer of nourishing foot cream, just to replenish the skin oils you dissolved away - though I've used it many times on its own and it still leaves me with baby-soft feet. A word of caution, as with any glycolic acid product, your skin can become more sensitive to the sun, so it's worth keeping this as a nighttime-only step, and definitely keep up with SPF on your feet if they're going to be on display in sandals.

I've had exactly one summer pedicure this season, right at the start of May. Normally by now I'd be desperate for a top-up, but my feet still look soft, healthy, and - dare I say it - pretty fresh-pedicure-adjacent. For something that takes thirty seconds and costs a fraction of a salon visit, that feels like a bit of a win.

Serum and moisturiser are two of the most-used skincare products, with hundreds of options on the market aiming to tackle everything from dehydration to pigmentation - but do you know exactly what sets them apart, and where each fits in your routine?

As with a lot of beauty questions, comparing moisturisers vs serums can sound more complicated than it really is, but we're here to help break it down in the simplest possible terms. As well as the differences between the two, from texture to results, this guide will help you pin down the perfect skincare routine order - and whether you truly need to use both.

Plus, we've rounded up a selection of supercharged serums and skin-supporting moisturisers from Clarins, designed to meet the needs of your specific skin type and work towards your skin goals.

Serums vs moisturisers: what's the difference, and do you need both?

The serums vs moisturisers debate can be summed up with one key distinction: Serums are designed to treat the skin, while moisturisers are designed to protect it. This means that serum formulas tend to include active ingredients, such as antioxidants and skincare acids, to work on specific concerns. Meanwhile, moisturisers contain barrier-repairing and hydrating ingredients such as ceramides, lipids and water-holding humectants.

What is a serum?

Serums are the powerhouse product in your routine. Highly active and highly targeted, they usually contain a high proportion of active ingredients vs a moisturiser, and are formulated to tackle concerns. With smaller molecules than face creams, serums are designed to be easily absorbed, get deeper into the skin and layer well under other skincare products. There are as many types of serum as there are skins to treat, but these options from Clarins offer solutions for a range of concerns:

What is a moisturiser?

Just as they sound, moisturisers are designed to add moisture to the skin, make it feel comfortable, plump and help support your skin barrier. This is the skin's outermost layer that prevents water loss, as well as shielding the skin from irritation and environmental aggressors, such as smoke, pollution and UV. They range in texture from light, milky fluids to very rich balm-like creams, designed to be worn overnight.

Do you need to use both serum and moisturiser?

In one word: yes. In a few more words: it's a good idea to use both if you want an effective routine. Serums and moisturisers not only perform different roles, but they also help each other work more effectively. As serums have smaller molecules, using one before your face cream will allow it to absorb effectively, and then be sealed in by the heavier-textured moisturiser.

If hydration is your only skincare goal, then it can be tempting to just use a moisturising cream. But skipping serum does mean missing an opportunity to improve existing concerns while maintaining hydration and protecting your barrier.

Where each fits in your skincare routine order

The order you apply your skincare products in is an important consideration - almost as important as choosing products themselves. According to many skin experts (the w&h beauty desk included), these are the ideal AM and PM skincare routines, including those all-important serum and moisturiser steps:

• Day: Cleanse, tone, eye care, serum, moisturiser, SPF
• Night: Cleanse, tone, eye care, serum, treatment, moisturiser

This checklist includes every product your skin needs to improve existing concerns and protect against new ones, while the specific order allows your skin to draw the maximum benefits from each step, ready to take on the next one.

Your moisturiser and serum FAQs, answered

• Can I skip serum and go straight to moisturiser?
  If you want to tackle existing concerns and prevent new ones, it's always best to use both.
• Do I have to use the same products day and night?
  No, many people alternate between AM and PM serums and moisturisers, such as a protective antioxidant formula during the day and a restorative one at night.
• Should I apply both in quick succession?
  Ideally, wait 30-60 seconds between applying your treatment serum and moisturiser, to allow the serum's active ingredients to penetrate.
• How do I apply serums vs moisturisers?
  Here's one area where these two products are 100% aligned. Warm the product between your palms and press it into the skin, applying gentle pressure with your fingertips under the eyes, on the forehead and jawline.

Microneedling triggers the body’s natural healing response to improve skin texture and tone. In-clinic treatments and professional devices remain the gold standard, but a new wave of consumer-operated microneedling tools promise real results alongside the convenience of at-home use.

Skin experts often recommend microneedling as an effective way to treat acne scarring, dullness, fine lines, hyperpigmentation, and enlarged pores. It's a booming treatment in salons, and now, new stamps and rollers are bringing the clinic to your bathroom, which begs the question - is it actually safe to do it yourself, at home?

Here, with the help of experts, I'll explain what you need to know before microneedling at home. Is it a good idea? Does it hurt? Will it yield real results? All will be revealed, alongside my personal experience with a do-it-yourself microneedling device.

What is microneedling?

For the uninitiated, “microneedling is a minimally invasive treatment that uses very fine needles to create controlled micro-injuries in the skin,” explains Dr Priya Verma, award-winning aesthetics doctor and founder of the ART Clinic. “These tiny channels stimulate the body’s natural wound-healing response, triggering collagen and elastin production. Over time, this helps improve skin texture, reduce fine lines, soften acne scarring and enhance overall radiance, giving the skin a smoother, healthier appearance.”

These micro-channels also help your skincare ingredients reach deeper layers, meaning that anything you apply subsequently will work more efficiently.

Our beauty editor’s experience of at-home microneedling

I’ve tried at-home microneedling a few times now. I’ve never got on with derma rollers. It feels too easy to over-use them, or over-work the same area. Stamp and serum systems feel a little safer to use in my opinion, like the Vita Vitae Microneedling Home Infusion Kit.

The box contains a stamping device and vials of serum, which are dispensed into the device cartridge. This means that not only is your skin benefiting from the healing triggered by the microneedling itself, but also the perks of a targeted booster serum.

The device itself has 20 24k gold-plated micro-needles of 0.5 mm. This is more than Dr Verma's recommendation for safe microneedling at home (below). My skin was able to cope, but this is something to weigh up. Stamping it across your skin feels prickly at worst, not painful. You apply it across your face using a press-and-lift motion, starting at the forehead, working down.

My skin was a little red, but this dissipated within half an hour. My skin looked glowier, plumper and brighter during that initial 24 hours or so. The next week or so, I noticed my makeup was sitting much nicer on my skin. The exosomes, peptides and polynucleotides applied via the booster are probably working very hard to repair, regenerate and boost collagen and elastin production deep down, but it’s harder to see any noticeable improvement in my wrinkles at surface-level.

If you’re looking for meaningful improvements in big skin issues like deep lines and sagging, go down the professional route. But a freshen-up when skin looks lacklustre? I would back this at-home microneedling kit.

At-home microneedling vs in-clinic treatments

“The key difference lies in precision and depth,” explains Dr Verma. “Medical microneedling performed in-clinic can reach depths of 1–2mm or more, allowing us to target deeper layers of the skin where collagen is produced. At-home devices are designed to work much more superficially, meaning they can enhance skincare product absorption and mild texture improvement, but they won’t deliver the same level of collagen stimulation.”

Working at a shallower depth has its benefits, as Carlo Alberto Maccan, Co-Founder of Vita Vitae Beauty, points out. “Treatments take only a few minutes and typically involve minimal downtime, making them a convenient way to support skin health between professional treatments or as part of a regular skincare routine.”

What to look for in an at-home microneedling device

“Devices designed for home use should generally have a needle depth of no more than around 0.2–0.3mm, as deeper penetration carries a higher risk of skin damage, infection, and post-inflammatory pigmentation,” explains Dr Verma.

As Debbie Thomas, Founder of Cellis and the D.Thomas Clinic, sums up, “At-home microneedling can have a place, but as light maintenance not to enact meaningful change. If someone has healthy skin, uses a very short needle length, keeps the device properly clean and understands that the results will be minimal, it may be used cautiously at home, but it should never be seen as equal to a professional treatment.”

How to use at-home microneedling safely

Carlo shares the expert tips and simple habits for safe and effective treatment from the comfort of your own home.

• ⁠Always start with clean skin and clean hands.
• Use gentle pressure and avoid overworking the same area.
• Focus on hydrating and barrier-repairing ingredients after treatment rather than strong exfoliating acids or retinoids.
• ⁠Apply broad-spectrum SPF the following day, as the skin may be slightly more sensitive to sunlight.
• ⁠Consistency is key - gentle, regular treatments tend to deliver better results than aggressive or infrequent sessions.
• For most people, once a week is ideal, allowing the skin several days to regenerate between treatments.

Is microneedling suitable for everyone?

While microneedling can be an effective treatment for many skin types, there are some exceptions. According to Thomas, “Anyone with active acne, eczema, psoriasis, rosacea flare-ups, broken skin, skin infections or very sensitive, reactive skin should be cautious and often avoid microneedling unless they have been assessed by a professional first.”

Carlo Maccan shares this advice. “Individuals with very sensitive skin conditions should consult a dermatologist before trying microneedling, even at home. Treatments should also be paused if the skin barrier is compromised or if strong resurfacing treatments are being used at the same time.”

When Caroline Hirons talks, we listen. Particularly so when it comes to her no-nonsense, authentic product recommendations.

So it was with much excitement that we spotted the Skin Rocks founder's latest Instagram post, in which she is asked, "What is your favourite SPF?" Taking a beat, skincare expert Hirons then generously goes on to detail not just her opinion on the best facial sunscreen but two bonus beach and body SPF recommendations on top.

So if you're struggling to cut through the noise of the suncare market, but want to pinpoint which is best for everyday facial use, or which to pack in your holiday suitcase, consider this your lucky day. We've got all the details on Hirons' top three below, one of which just so happens to be a longstanding favourite of our beauty editor, too.

Caroline Hirons' top 3 SPFs, for the city and at the beach

"The first one that comes to the top of my head for daily, everyday use in London is Ultraviolette Supreme Screen, but we all know that," Hirons quips, later going on to explain, "I'm just a creature of habit".

And it's easy to see why Supreme Screen is such a habit-forming buy. This Aussie-made fluid combines a very light, undetectable texture with a hydrating formula that never looks greasy or oily. This makes it one of the best sunscreens for mature skin, as it moisturises without leaving a sticky, claggy feeling in the heat.

This brand's glow-boosting SPFs are also a cult favourite amongst beauty industry veterans and celebrities alike, with known fans including Margot Robbie and A-List makeup artist Gucci Westman, who has recommended prepping the skin with Ultra Violette under makeup.

Luckily for us - and particularly anyone who is planning a summer holiday or trip to the beach soon, Hirons didn't stop there - she also revealed not one, but two, SPFs of choice for all-over use.

"Then I'm partial to, if I'm going on holiday, anything Shiseido or Clarins," Hirons tells her interviewer behind the camera, who replies, "You like the Shiseido sticks, don't you?" and Hirons agrees, "And the Clarins stick, I love a stick for ease - once I've already applied in the morning, obviously, I don't use just a stick."

Here on the woman&home beauty desk, we can relate: Sunscreen sticks are such a useful and hardworking product to pop into your beach bag or city break cross-body for top-ups throughout the day. The Clarins in particular is a favourite of mine, for its completely invisible and mess-free formula and reliable protection - I wouldn't go to a festival or set off for a day's sightseeing without it.

As well as being convenient and luxurious, it's also worth noting that both Clarins and Shiseido are brands with a long history of offering extremely high-quality, reliable and lovely to use sunscreen products, as noted by Hirons, who tells viewers, "I just think the science is good, especially around the Shiseido, I love the Clarins for the bod, the smell takes me back. So, for memories and being instantly on holiday, Shiseido or Clarins and day to day in London, I love a bit of Ultra Violette."

And that's our summer sunscreen wardrobe sorted, thanks, Caroline!

Like so many things these days, shopping for skincare often starts with a scroll. I pop onto Instagram to find a quick recommendation for a moisturiser… and emerge an hour later having bookmarked a so-called "salmon sperm" facial, followed 20 new midlife wellbeing gurus and ordered half a dozen products all promising to be the latest anti-ageing must-haves. And instead of feeling excited, I’m confused.

After three decades in beauty, I’ve never known a time when we’ve had so much information at our fingertips. Yet for many of us, knowing what to use in our skincare routine and what to ignore can feel like a minefield. Perhaps the real issue isn’t that we don’t have enough information, but that we have too much of it – and not enough confidence in what to trust.

As a former beauty editor, I used to love being the go-to for friends asking for skincare advice. But somewhere between skin cycling, barrier repair, collagen banking and a growing list of so-called "non-negotiables", I’ve found myself second-guessing what actually matters.

And I know I’m not alone. So, to help cut through the noise, I’ve spoken to skincare experts who can demystify the sea of products and ingredients out there – and help us focus on what our skin really needs right now.

Make a start: Choosing skincare with confidence

When I turned 50, my skin went from juicy to parched almost overnight. I hadn’t quite realised how much falling levels of oestrogen would affect it. Add in peri symptoms like poor sleep, rising cortisol and everyday stress, and it all started to show, leaving my skin almost unrecognisable.

My friend Jane, in her 50s, put it perfectly when she said to me: “It’s not just that I’ve lost confidence in what to wear, but now my skin has changed and I’ve become unsure about my skincare. I don’t know where to start.”

Dr Preema Vig, Medical Director of the Dr Preema London Clinic advises starting by identifying a few key concerns that often show up in midlife, such as increased pigmentation, deepening wrinkles and skin laxity. She recommends choosing targeted products to address these, rather than layering multiple steps into an already crowded routine, or being led by what works for a friend or what’s trending online.

Expert facialist Anel Lamine, founder of Skin by Anel Lamine, adds, “As a starting point, it’s a good idea to find a skin specialist you trust who can properly assess your skin and guide you in a way that’s tailored to you.”

Ingredients: What really works in midlife?

When it comes to midlife skin, these are the ingredients experts consistently come back to the following:

• Retinoids (retinol/retinal): A powerful family of vitamin A derivatives, excellent for improving texture and supporting skin renewal. But a word of caution – as Anel advises, “Retinol needs to be introduced carefully, especially in midlife, when skin can be drier and more sensitive. If your skin is reactive, gentler alternatives like plant-derived bakuchiol can be a good starting point.”
• Hyaluronic acid: A true hydration hero, helping the skin attract and hold onto moisture so it looks plumper, smoother and more supple.
• Polyglutamic acid: A newer-generation hydrator that helps the skin retain moisture even more effectively than hyaluronic acid, leaving it feeling soft and comfortable.
• SPF: Using one of the best facial sunscreens every day is essential. It protects against UV rays that break down collagen, trigger pigmentation, and accelerate visible signs of ageing. If you do one thing consistently, make it this.

Repair and firming essentials:

• Ceramides: Help repair and strengthen the skin barrier, locking in moisture and improving resilience.
• Peptides: Encourage the skin to produce more collagen and elastin, helping to improve firmness and elasticity.
• Growth factors: Support the skin’s natural repair process, helping it appear smoother and more resilient over time.

Antioxidant protectors

• Resveratrol: Helps protect the skin from environmental damage and supports repair.
• Niacinamide (vitamin B3): Strengthens the skin barrier, reduces redness, and improves overall tone.
• Vitamin C: Boosts radiance, supports collagen production and helps defend against environmental damage.

The acid edit:

Exfoliation is often misunderstood. As Lamine explains, “cell turnover slows with age, meaning dead skin can build up more easily and leave skin looking dull. Regular exfoliation with a gentle acid – rather than a harsh scrub – can help keep skin smooth, clear, and more receptive to the products you apply afterwards.”

• Glycolic acid: Gently exfoliates to improve texture and radiance.
• Salicylic acid: Clears pores and helps prevent breakouts.
• Azelaic acid: Helps calm redness and even out pigmentation, making it especially useful in midlife.

Why does skincare feel so overwhelming?

Social media has created a skincare landscape where everyone seems to be an expert. From influencers chasing "glass skin" – that ultra-smooth, poreless, high-shine complexion – to viral trends like the "caveman" method, where you abandon products altogether, the messaging is constant and often conflicting. Add to this clever marketing using glossy, age-defying celebrities to endorse their brands and it’s almost impossible not to get swept up.

But there’s another layer to this. As Dr Preema explains, midlife skin is already in flux. “When the skin is changing due to perimenopause or menopause, it can create a sense of urgency to address multiple concerns at once,” she says. “This often leads to confusion rather than clarity, with many women feeling they are falling behind rather than in control.”

I’ve realised that even though I’ve become pretty savvy when it comes to reading labels, in the past I’ve definitely been swayed by anti-ageing ingredients which claim to rewind the clock - but they haven’t always been the best choice for my skin.

It’s something Lamine sees all the time. “Women come to me with cupboards full of products bought online, often driven by exciting - often misleading - claims like ‘Botox in a bottle’, but they’re over-layering or not using them correctly, and too many actives can compromise the skin barrier,” she says.

Natural vs science-led skincare: Do you really have to choose?

The natural versus "clinical grade" skincare debate is often brought up in conversation with friends who feel they need to pick a side. In reality, most experts now favour a hybrid approach – combining science-led formulations with high-performance ingredients derived from nature.

So, the question isn’t whether natural or science-led skincare is better, but what works best for your skin. Most experts agree that the two can complement each other.

It’s also worth remembering that "natural" doesn’t automatically mean safer or more effective. Some botanical ingredients can irritate or sensitise, while many lab-created ingredients are carefully designed to be stable, gentle and results-driven.

As Dr Nina Bal, founder of Facial Sculpting Clinic, explains: “Natural ingredients can offer supportive benefits, while science-led formulations bring consistency and proven efficacy. In fact, many high-performance products already bridge that gap, using botanicals derived from nature alongside carefully tested actives to deliver real results.”

Personally, I’ve found balance works best. I love my weekly ritual of a simple facial massage with nourishing organic oils like argan or rosehip – it relaxes me and gives my skin a feel-good glow. But when it comes to real, visible results, I reach for well-formulated, science-backed products.

TIP: Look for ingredients with proven benefits, like ceramides, hyaluronic acid and niacinamide, and be cautious of unnecessary extras such as fragrance or high levels of essential oils, which could cause irritation.

Midlife skincare reset: Your daily routine

After speaking to the experts, one message came through loud and clear: midlife skincare doesn’t need to be complicated to work. It’s about consistency and giving products time, around 8–12 weeks, to do what they’re designed to do.

Dr Munir Somji, Chief Medical Officer and Founder of DrMediSpa, and Co-Founder of Dr Somji Pro-Active Skincare, says, “A refined routine would centre around a gentle cleanser, a well-formulated moisturiser, a targeted treatment such as a retinoid or antioxidant, and a high-quality daily sunscreen. When these foundations are in place, the skin is far more responsive to any additional treatments.”

As Lamine puts it, “When you focus on keeping your skin healthy and supported - rather than trying to erase every sign of ageing – you’ll often find that concerns like fine lines and uneven texture begin to improve naturally.”

And from my experience, when your midlife skin is healthy, you stop chasing every new must-have and start trusting what actually works for you.

I was reading about the differences between Asian and British skincare routines recently, and something really struck a chord.

An in-house scientist with a big Japanese skincare brand explained the reason Japanese women are generally on their A-game with the best facial sunscreen, is because the Eastern market focuses on prevention above all else, whereas here, treatment and correction are king.

That tracks. I can't count the number of times I've been asked what the best neck cream or pigmentation treatment is and been met with a disappointed sigh when I say it's good old SPF. I get it - prevention may be better than cure, but it definitely isn't as exciting. So, what if I had a product for you that offers a bit of both?

Why this pigmentation-busting SPF is my beauty buy of the week

If the beauty editor's first commandment, thou shalt wear sunscreen every day brings out some contrary determination to ignore what's good for you, that's ok. I get bored with us lot banging on about it, too.

That's why it's such a gift when a brand brings out a product that takes care of the prevention side of things (it truly is more important) but also tackles things that have already occurred, which realistically, is a more compelling motivator.

A mini lesson in pigmentation: It's caused by cells called melanocytes, that, egged on by UV rays, overproduce melanin pigment to try and 'protect' your skin. This becomes little brown or grey spots that can live in the top or deeper layers of the skin and get darker with additional UV exposure.

Once it's there, your best bet for deep pigmentation is to zap it away with lasers and IPL. If it's superficial, you can use skincare: antioxidants to inhibit melanin-producing enzymes, acids to push pigmented cells off the surface and sunscreen to get ahead of things and suppress the pigment from darkening when the sun's out.

And the sun has indeed been out, so perhaps all of us could benefit from getting a bit more Eastern in our approach - with products like this, you don't need to choose between prevention and cure anyway. Sounds good? Great! Let's chat next Sunday.

In my 28 years as a beauty editor, I’ve been commissioned to test every "miracle" cream designed to lift, plump and brighten skin. My bathroom has seen it all: £200 serums, high-tech LED masks and anti-ageing creams that promise everything but to wash your kitchen sink.

And, yes, thanks to being at the forefront of all of these new skincare innovations and a simple routine that doesn’t involve Botox or injectables, my skin is in pretty good shape. But almost two years ago, just after my 48th birthday, I decided to do the best thing that I have ever done for it – and that’s ditch the booze.

It was very much a life-changing decision. I’d always loved a drink, but when I hit 40, my relationship with alcohol changed. A couple of glasses of wine and I’d be slurring my words. Hangxiety became part of my morning (and 4am) routine. It just wasn’t fun anymore.

Plus, I noticed changes in my skin and hair. I mostly put them down to ageing in general and, of course, hormones. I began to see fine lines in areas that I wasn’t used to seeing them – like on the upper lip. My skin looked dehydrated and dull even after just one drink the night before. And my hair definitely lost its zhush, as I like to call it. It just looked dry and lank.

So I started to have that inner conversation that I now know many midlife women have about their drinking habits: Why was I doing it to myself? It was making me feel awful on the inside, and look just as bad on the outside. It wasn’t making me feel good at all. "I’m almost 50 and I need to start looking after myself. I need to stop!"

So I did. And now, as I approach my 50th birthday, almost two years sober, I’ve realised that this was the best decision I could ever have made. For my skin, my hair and also for me. Here’s exactly what happened when I decided to leave the booze behind…

How sobriety changed my midlife skin

Day 1

On the 19th of July, I woke up in a defiant mood and declared to my Instagram community that I was going sober. Now, when I look back at this photo I took that morning, I see a puffy face, congested skin and a dullness in my eyes.

In the beauty industry, we’re taught to fix and hide our "imperfections", but no amount of the best concealer or retinol could hide what I now know my face was showing me. It looked weighted down – exactly how I felt!

Day 7

I couldn’t believe how quickly I saw changes in my skin and face. My skin was brighter, glowier, softer. I could see more definition in my cheekbones. My eyes also looked clearer, which helped lift my complexion all around.

This was when I got my first compliment from someone asking what I’d done to my skin. The knock-on effect of living alcohol-free began to show in my confidence, even at this early stage, and it felt great.

1 month

The biggest change for me at this stage was that my skin stopped looking and feeling constantly dehydrated. It felt and looked more plump and glowy and it felt softer and bouncier to the touch – almost like you get that "baby springback" in the skin.

When you remove the diuretic effect of alcohol, the water that you drink actually reaches your skin and hair. So the fine lines, like the ones I’d noticed above my lip, weren’t so obvious. My eyes continued to appear brighter, which just lifted my whole face. There were no pillow creases left on my face in the morning.

6 months

This is when I really began to notice changes in all parts of my life – not just my skin and hair (which had just begun to feel softer and look way shinier, but more of that to come).

Being sober at six months made me look at myself differently. Before sobriety, my morning routine was rushed and unconsidered. I would wake up way past the alarm, hitting snooze a few times, with a dread and anxious feeling about the day. I wouldn’t really look in the mirror. Yes, I’d always do my skincare – but I was just going through the motions.

At this point, I began waking up early – not to get the kids ready for school or to prepare their breakfast, but for me! I’d get into the bathroom and actually look at my reflection because I was proud of what I saw. Same skincare routine but more considered and intentional.

1 year

This is when I saw a huge difference in my hair. We are often sold the idea that after 40, hair thinning and a dry, lank texture are part of the menopause. And while yes, that can be the case, and hormones shifts are real, I found that removing alcohol was one of the main reasons I got my hair back to its former glory.

Before, I’d never managed to grow it past collarbone length. It would break so easily. But on my 49th birthday, it was the longest it had been since I was 21. And then there was the fullness. In my early 40s, I began noticing my scalp more in certain light and more hair in the plughole after I washed it. That was no longer the case. It looked and felt thicker and stronger.

2 years (almost)

As someone with nearly three decades of experience in the beauty industry, I have seen trends come and go and people often ask me for the secret to ageing well. I don’t do Botox or filler. Yes, I still rely on good skincare, but it’s a booze-free lifestyle that’s definitely behind my almost-50 glow.

I have been through a lot of life in the last two years. I’m building my The Beauty Ed brand in America, and I’m turning 50 this year. And now when I look in the mirror, I see myself as stronger than ever. Cutting out the booze has taught me that looking and feeling great as you age is not about looking younger – it’s about looking like yourself, and for a long time, I didn’t feel like I looked myself at all. Today I finally do!

Everyone knows the UK is not well equipped for a heatwave, with our lack of air con and melting train tracks that make it difficult to travel anywhere. But, I've got a nifty beauty buy that will ensure you're prepared for even the hottest temperatures.

When the sun makes an appearance, you'll most likely turn to one of the best facial sunscreens to keep your skin protected, but as the hours tick by, it's natural to want to refresh your complexion to prevent overheating and dehydration.

And while we'd love to relieve our hot, sticky skin by splashing our face with cold water, it's not always the most practical solution, especially if you're in the office or running errands. Thankfully, that's not a concern of mine since I was introduced to Avène's Thermal Spring Water Spray – and it's become a staple in my handbag during heatwaves and holidays.

The handy face mist that's my best friend during a heatwave

Face mists are a great way to achieve instant relief in the heat, working to cool and refresh the skin, while soothing and calming any heat-induced irritation – without having to reach for rich creams or lotions. All of which is particularly helpful for menopausal skin, as declining oestrogen can weaken the skin barrier, causing sensitivity, dryness and making you more prone to experiencing heat rashes.

Whether I'm battling a heatwave or sitting in 30+ degree heat on holiday, one thing's for certain, I don't want my skin to feel sweaty, oily and grimy. However, as someone with sensitive skin, I need a formula that isn't going to cause any more irritation. And the good news is, this spray actively does the opposite.

Using this is essentially like spritzing your face with revitalising water that also boasts soothing skincare benefits. The proof is in the pudding when it comes to the effectiveness of this spray, as it works to rebalance, restore and strengthen the skin.

I reach for this mist to deliver immediate cooling refreshment, boost long-lasting hydration and aid the overall comfort of my skin. What's more, you can also use it to calm sunburn, itching and any post-shaving irritation, as it's proven to reduce skin sensitivity and lower skin temperature.

In even more helpful news, they also offer a travel-friendly 50ml version, which is a perfect size for popping in your handbag whilst you're on the go. Let me also say, this very much deserves a spot in your beach bag to freshen up your complexion after an enjoyable (but often sweat-inducing) subathing session.

Korean skincare has never been more influential in the UK. From lightweight, skin-friendly foundation that still manages to cover acne, to toner pads with the power to exfoliate, hydrate or soothe, K-beauty is booming across every category.

While many people love the ‘glass skin’ trend, a super glossy look isn't the best end goal for anyone with very dry or textured skin. Instead, formulas with velvety finishes that promote deep hydration and skin health are a better bet. Enter: Cloud creams. This emerging trend of soft-focus, 'whipped' Korean creams is a growing product category we should be paying attention to when it comes to the best moisturisers on the market.

And so I spoke with K-beauty expert and aesthetic doctor Dr Christine Hall for the low-down on cloud creams, what they can do for mature complexions, and which are the best formulas to try for the summer months. Here's what you need to know.

What are cloud creams, exactly?

Cloud creams are defined by some specific features, most notably – as their name suggests – these are moisturisers that boast a unique, sensorial texture. Dr Hall describes said texture as “aerated” and “whipped.”

“They sit somewhere between a gel-cream and a traditional emollient moisturiser, but with a more elastic, bouncy skin feel,” she explains. “They feel lightweight on application but have a surprising density once spread, almost like a mousse that melts into the skin.” You can tell when you’re using a cloud cream as the application process feels unique and even, well, fun.

These fluffy, bouncy creams also deliver a finish that feels at odds with much of what’s on the market right now. They offer a diffused effect, but a subtle way compared to typical 'glass skin' moisturisers, which can sometimes look shiny and actually highlight dry or dull skin. “The finish is soft-focus rather than reflective; think velvety, cushioned skin rather than high-shine ‘glass,’” says Dr Hall. “Skin appears smoother, more even and subtly plumped without looking oily or occlusive.”

Lastly, their ingredients list is another major selling point. As with many products hailing from South Korea, the focus is on hydration, barrier repair and calming the skin. Popular ingredients include centella asiatica, panthenol and ceramides, which make cloud creams “aligned with the broader K-beauty shift toward skin resilience rather than just appearance,” notes Dr Hall.

How is cloud cream different to regular moisturiser?

According to Dr Hall, “Cloud creams use air-whipped emulsions or micro-foam structures, which change how the product spreads and absorbs," she explains. "Traditional creams are typically uniform emulsions – oil-in-water or water-in-oil – whereas cloud creams are engineered for that ‘bounce’ and quick melt.” This is how cloud creams manage to feel so light and airy on the skin.

But that’s not all in terms of their differing makeup. The weight vs hydration balance is not the same in cloud creams when compared with ‘regular’ creams, either. “Regular moisturisers often rely on heavier occlusives, like petrolatum or rich oils, for hydration," Dr Hall continues. "Cloud creams tend to prioritise humectants – glycerin, hyaluronic acid – and barrier-supporting lipids – ceramides, fatty acids – but in lighter ratios.” These formulas also prioritise the calming, hydrating skincare heroes such as centella asiatica and panthenol, which are so beloved within the K-beauty space.

Lastly, the finish, as mentioned, is unique. Rather than leaving the skin looking very dewy (or, alternatively, super matte), cloud creams sit somewhere in between and deliver a semi-matte, blurred, diffused finish. This also makes them ideal for oil-prone skin types, anyone experiencing peri- or menopausal hot flushing and also is a perfect pre-makeup base.

Why are cloud creams becoming more popular now?

Cloud creams – as with many other "trending" products – reflect a clear shift in consumer preference and the way we use and view skincare. Dr Hall points to a "post-glass skin evolution" as the main reason cloud creams are currently having their moment. “The industry is moving away from extreme dewiness toward a more wearable, everyday finish. Not everyone wants skin that looks glossy under all lighting conditions," she confirms.

The continuation of certain priorities also comes into play though; for one, we are still giving preferential treatment to skincare that aids in skin barrier repair and protection. After years of over-exfoliating and 12-step routines, we’re leaning in to practices that calm and restore over anything – and cloud creams fit into this approach perfectly.

They also just have some great, unique properties that make them really appealing and practical. For example, as Dr Hall points out, “In humid environments (common in Korea), heavy creams are less practical. A lightweight but hydrating product is more versatile.” She adds that not only do they allow for a "sensorial experience," which is increasingly appreciated within the modern skincare user experience, but they are also super compatible with makeup usage: “A velvety, non-greasy base performs better under makeup, which makes these formulations more appealing to Western consumers who layer skincare with cosmetics.”

When shopping for cloud creams, Dr Hall says it’s important to look for “ceramides and cholesterol for barrier repair, humectants at effective concentrations and formulas with minimal fragrance to reduce irritation risk.” She notes that while the concept is promising, “not all cloud creams are equal” and concludes: “Some prioritise texture over efficacy. The best ones deliver both.”

I will never forget the first time I was offered Botox. It was ten years ago – I was approaching forty and a beauty PR, who was representing a famous Harley Street aesthetician at the time, mentioned that she could do something about "that fine line just to the right of your eyebrow." I’d never even noticed it before. And even if I had, I’d never have thought to start having Botox to fix it.

I was Beauty Director at Boots Health & Beauty magazine at the time, and I’d introduced a no-retouch policy to all of the beauty images, including the cover, in their in-store magazine. This "real, unfiltered" approach to beauty and skin had been a thread running through my early career.

When I was appointed Beauty Editor on teen magazine CosmoGIRL! in the early 2000s, I was passionate about showing girls that beauty didn’t have a one-size-fits-all, cut-out-and-keep template. Growing up in the supermodel era of the early 90s, when the beauty aesthetic was all about flawless skin, glossy hair and size 8 figures, I wanted to show teenage girls that they didn’t have to fit into a box when it came to living out their personal beauty ideals. And that approach stayed with me into adulthood – personally and professionally.

3 things I do for midlife skin as an experienced beauty editor

I get so frustrated when women feel pressure to look or act a certain way. I really believe that there is beauty in just being yourself! Some of the most beautiful women may tick all the right boxes on the outside, but if they are insecure or unhappy on the inside, aesthetic beauty falls by the wayside, doesn’t it?

But that’s not to say I have found it easy taking this "real skin" approach, especially as I approach my 50th birthday. I cannot visit a beauty clinic without a needle being waved in my face, and now that I live in Florida, America’s ‘Sunshine State’ where the UV rays are relentless and the aesthetic pressure even more so, it’s challenging not to cave under the pressure. But instead of chasing a frozen version of my younger self, I am adamant to embrace my ageing face with joy, gratitude and pride. Who knows – I might be able to convince others too!

1. Use retinal to get the glassy 'Botox glow'

While Botox’s main benefit is to freeze muscles to prevent future lines from forming, and smooth out existing ones too, it also gives your skin a lovely "polished", glassy texture. An effect that we all love, right?

Well, the good news is, you don’t necessarily have to go under a needle to get a similar glass skin result. Retinoids, which are a group of skincare ingredients derived from Vitamin A, have been proven to speed up your skin cell cycle, which helps fresh new skin appear more quickly. It can help stimulate collagen production, too, which, when we get past the age of 25, begins to slow down. So skin loses its firmness and glow.

2. Have a healthy attitude towards the sun

I have always enjoyed the sun, but as I’ve gotten older I have become more, let’s say sensible, with how much I enjoy it. I’m not obsessed about avoiding it, I just have a healthy and realistic attitude. I avoid it during peak hours when the sun is strongest. I wear cute hats and baseball caps. And of course, especially as I live in Florida, I wear one of the best facial sunscreens every day.

I’m pretty sure we’ve all seen those pictures of the truck driver who, over the years, exposed one side of his face to his truck window, causing it to appear way more wrinkled and saggy than the other, non-sunlight-exposed side? Well that’s enough to make you want to wear protection, right?

3. Wear an LED mask before bed

I used to think that LED masks were an Instagram fad. But with research, I have learnt that red light therapy has been proven to stimulate collagen, and also encourage skin repair (hello smoother lines and less pigmentation). This has to be caveated with the fact that you have to use your red light therapy device consistently – for at least 10 minutes every day – to see results.

There is something hypnotic and soothing about the lights too, so it now feels more like a treat than a chore. This is a step in my routine that I am growing to love. And also beginning to see results from. The change is not dramatic, but my skin definitely appears brighter and just more rested.

Donna is currently appearing on Escape To Florida on Channel 4.

There are so many reasons to admire Joanna Page: her quick wit on the latest series of Taskmaster, her ability to embody characters you can't help but love, and, our favourite thing of all, her refreshingly down-to-earth attitude.

Never was this more apparent than when woman&home sat down for an exclusive interview with Page, and asked about her skincare routine, to which she replied, "I've never been a big one for moisturisers or makeup. I think being an actress and having stuff put on you all the time, day to day, I don't like wearing anything at all. And so that means I'm not very up on knowing what to put on!"

We appreciate the honesty, although, given her beautifully clear and glowing skin, we had hoped for some tips - but all was not lost. We discovered one very budget-friendly buy Page has been loyal to for years, and the high-tech cream that turned her head, which she now uses "religiously."

Joanna Page's £1.69 face cream - and her new favourite

Detailing her low-maintenance skincare routine, Joanna confessed: "For years, I would just use Nivea Hand and Body, which was about £1.69, on my face." Honestly, we don't blame her. Much like Joanna Lumley's 'cheap as chips' Astral moisturiser, Nivea creams are tried-and-true hydrators that simply get the job done. And, it should be noted that Nivea does say this can be used on the face, too.

Happily for our recommendation-hungry beauty team, she didn't stop there, revealing, "Now I’ve progressed from that, and I've started using Sculpted by Aimee’s Cloud Cream Moisturiser. That's the best thing that I've started using on my face, I use it religiously."

High praise indeed - and again, we are not surprised. Cloud creams are an emerging category of skincare from Korea, centred on highly nourishing ingredients in lightweight textures. These are so perfect for mature skin, particularly during warmer weather when we need plenty of hydration and nourishment but don't want to feel claggy or overloaded.

Although Page's new find is more of an investment than her original Nivea favourite, it is still very affordable, relatively speaking, for skincare.

Once again, this simply cements the TV star's endearing relatability - speaking of which, she concluded our beauty chat with another confession: "Now, only at the age of 49, I’ve started cleansing and taking mascara and everything off before bed. I've always, all through the years, slept in my makeup, I know that is so bad!"

No comment on that from the beauty team here, except to say, who can truly say they haven't on occasion fallen into bed without the rigmarole of a full cleansing routine? Nobody's perfect.

To conclude, Page did note, "I now only use micellar water, which some people have told me is bad for you, but it’s easy to use and works for me." Take it from a beauty editor, Joanna - that's not bad, not bad at all!

Watch Joanna Page in Shift The Thrift on BBC iPlayer now

Retinoids have long dominated the conversation around menopausal skincare, but Caroline Hirons believes acids deserve just as much attention.

Speaking at the launch of her latest treatment, The Strong Acid, the skincare guru argued that exfoliation becomes increasingly important during midlife, when slower skin cell turnover can contribute to dullness and uneven texture.

“Picasso didn't paint onto cement,” Hirons said, comparing exfoliation to the preparation that comes before painting or decorating. Her point was simple: a brighter, smoother canvas begins with resurfacing. While skincare acids are often associated with teenage breakouts and aggressive peels, Hirons believes they’re one of the most effective ways to tackle the textural changes that often accompany midlife skin.

Why Caroline Hirons says acids are 'non negotiable' for menopausal skin

One of the biggest reasons acids become more beneficial with age is that the skin’s natural renewal processes begin to slow down over time. “Skin cell turnover slows down from our 30s-40s onwards, so using an exfoliating acid will aid the natural process and help prevent a build-up of older cells, which could lead to dullness and flakiness,” explains Hirons.

This slower turnover can leave skin looking less radiant and more uneven in texture – concerns that often become more noticeable during the menopause, when declining oestrogen levels can also impact hydration and elasticity. While the best retinol creams are often praised for encouraging deeper skin renewal, Hirons believes acids play an equally important role in refining the surface of the skin.

“A lot of people are using retinals, which is fantastic,” she said at the launch event. “They’re great for deep cell turnover, but you need that acid to do the superficial exfoliation.” According to Hirons, the two popular skincare ingredients work particularly well together. “The retinoids push everything to the surface, and the acids kind of get rid of whatever's on the surface.”

Although they work well in the same routine, both retinoids and exfoliating acids are highly active ingredients, so they’re often best used on alternate evenings rather than layered together.

Skin Rocks' latest launch, The Strong Acid, combines a blend of AHAs, BHAs and PHAs to target multiple concerns simultaneously. Alongside salicylic acid (a beta-hydroxy acid commonly used to decongest pores), the formula contains glycolic, lactic and mandelic acids, which work to improve texture and radiance. Shikimic and phytic acids help support a more even-looking skin tone, while gluconolactone, a polyhydroxy acid, offers gentler exfoliation alongside hydration benefits.

“Using five different AHAs means we can target dullness, texture, uneven skin tone and fine lines from different angles,” Hirons explains. “We also included BHA (salicylic acid) in the formula, as this exfoliates the pore lining and helps with blackheads, congestion and breakouts.”

Hirons is keen to flag that stronger acid formulas are best suited to experienced users rather than complete beginners. “You don't need it if you're 20,” she said. “If you are in the perimenopause stage, I'd crack on, but you may not need it as often, and if you are a woman of a certain age, it should be in your collection.”

In an era of “glass skin” and glow-focused routines, it’s unsurprising that resurfacing acids are having a moment. “It’s a real way of getting the glass skin without doing it cosmetically,” Hirons explained. “If your skin is in any way textured, which it will be, especially if you've hit the menopausal stages, then an acid is non-negotiable for me.”

The skin on our hands deserves the same attention as that on our face, yet it’s often overlooked. There’s no elaborate skincare routine, no targeted actives – just a hurried application of hand cream if they’re lucky.

Yet hands are one of the first areas to show signs of premature ageing, partly because the skin is thinner and contains fewer sebaceous glands than the face. They’re also exposed to far more daily wear and tear, from harmful UV rays to constant washing and cleaning.

“We tend to walk with our hands partially flexed, which means the back of our hands are angled towards the sun, and they receive additional UV exposure while driving,” explains consultant dermatologist Dr Derrick Phillips. “Ultraviolet radiation is the primary driver of premature skin ageing, contributing to pigmentation, loss of elasticity and fine wrinkling.”Add in repeated exposure to hot water, soaps and detergents (all of which can strip protective lipids from the skin barrier), and it’s easy to see why hands can quickly become dry and more visibly lined over time.

How to protect your hands from premature ageing, according to a consultant dermatologist

Ahead, Dr Phillips explains how to protect your hands from everyday damage – from the best water temperature to the importance of SPF and barrier-supporting formulas.

#1 Turn down the water temperature when washing your hands

While steaming hot water can feel comforting, dermatologists say it may be doing your skin barrier more harm than good. “Very hot water strips lipids from the outer layer of the skin,” explains Dr Phillips. “Over time, this weakens the skin barrier and contributes to dryness, flaking and irritation.”

This matters because the skin barrier acts as your hands’ protective shield, helping to lock in moisture and defend against environmental aggressors. Once compromised, hands can become increasingly dry and rough in texture. Dr Phillips recommends washing with warm rather than very hot water, which is still effective for killing germs without causing unnecessary irritation.

#2 Rethink your washing-up gloves

Rubber gloves are often considered essential for protecting hands while cleaning, but according to Dr Phillips, they can occasionally have the opposite effect.

“The surprising twist is that rubber washing-up gloves can actually contribute to irritation and barrier damage,” he explains. “When worn, sweat and moisture can build up inside the glove, causing friction and leaving hands dry or irritated once removed.”

If you regularly experience irritation after cleaning, it may be worth looking for breathable gloves and ensuring your hands are fully dry before putting them on. Taking breaks from prolonged glove use can also help minimise irritation.

#3 Choose gentler cleaning products

Much like harsh facial cleansers can leave skin feeling stripped, some detergents and soaps can disrupt the hands’ delicate moisture balance. Dr Phillips recommends switching to one of the best gentle hand washes, ideally a pH-balanced formula.

“By choosing a product that’s gentler on the skin, you’ll help to protect the skin’s natural pH levels and maintain a healthy skin barrier,” he says. This can be especially important for anyone already prone to dryness, sensitivity or eczema-prone skin, as repeated exposure to strong surfactants may exacerbate irritation over time.

#4 Moisturise straight after washing

According to dermatologists, timing matters when it comes to hand cream. Rather than waiting until hands already feel dry, Dr Phillips recommends applying moisturiser shortly after washing.

“Use a fragrance-free hand cream within a few minutes of washing and drying hands in order to replenish lost hydration and support the skin’s barrier repair,” he advises. Look for formulas containing ingredients such as ceramides, glycerin, shea butter or hyaluronic acid, which help attract and retain moisture while softening rough or crepey skin.

#5 Don’t forget to apply SPF on your hands

SPF is often reserved for the face, but experts say the backs of the hands are one of the most important areas when it comes to sun protection. “This is one of the most overlooked steps”, says Dr Phillips. “The backs of the hands receive significant UV exposure throughout the day.” He recommends applying a broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher to the backs of the hands every morning (and reapplying after handwashing) to help prevent pigmentation and premature skin ageing over time.

This is not a drill. Boots has launched yet another limited-edition beauty edit, and it serves as the perfect opportunity to upgrade your spring skincare routine for a fraction of the price.

Yes, it's that time again. After the success of their recent beauty box deals, such as the New and Trending box and the Easter beauty box, Boots has launched an all-new limited-edition edit, stuffed full of bestselling skincare formulas that are ideal for the spring season.

Equipped with everything you need for a complete skincare routine, from the best cleansers to the best face moisturisers, this specially curated edit from the high street retailer deserves to be on your radar – here's why.

Why we're loving the Boots Spring Skincare Refresh Edit this season

Housed inside a limited-edition pink makeup bag, you'll find a selection of skincare buys to carry you through the spring season – from radiance-boosting sunscreen to a juicy tinted lip balm, and much more. Plus, with its contents boasting a worth value of over £105, you'll be saving yourself £75 – that's a huge 71% discount.

What's inside the Boots Spring Skincare Refresh Edit

If you're anything like us, you'll want to take a peek into the edit for yourself and that's where we come in. We've put together a list of the 12 products that you can expect to find in the Boots Spring Skincare Refresh Edit...

• Vaseline Gluta-Hya Lip Serum Gloss Rosy Pink – Full size
• The Breakout Hack Patch It Up Everyday Multi-Size Pimple Patches 72 pcs – Full size
• Boots Jelly Pop Lip Sleep Mask – Full size
• Biore UV Aqua Rich Water Essence Sunscreen SPF30 50ml – Full size
• The Inkey List Hydrating Milk Cleanser 180ml – Full size
• BYOMA Blemish Control Moisturiser 50ml – Full size
• Haru Haru Wonder Black Rice Probiotics Barrier Essence 30ml
• RoC Line Smoothing Eye Cream 7.4g
• Cetaphil Gentle Skin Cleanser 29ml
• Cetaphil Daily Defence Cream SPF50 10g
• Curel Intensive Moisture Facial Cream 4g
• Curel Hydrating Water Essence 8ml
• Boots Limited Edition Diagonal Bag

Where to buy the Boots Spring Skincare Refresh Edit

For those wanting to snap up the Boots Spring Skincare Refresh Edit, you can find it exclusively online at the Boots website. You will qualify for free standard delivery in 3-5 working days, or you can make the most of next-day delivery for an extra £5.95. Alternatively, you can use their free click and collect service to have your edit delivered to your nearest Boots store.

How long is the Boots Spring Skincare Refresh Edit available for?

If you know a thing or two about the Boots beauty boxes and edits, you'll know that they never usually have an official end date. Instead, as they are limited editions, they are only available while stocks last. So, if you want to snap it up, we'd recommend doing so quickly to avoid missing out.

“You’re not allergic to fish, are you?” isn’t a question most people expect to hear before a magazine cover shoot. But for Sara Davies, it was one of the very first things her makeup artist asked while prepping her skin backstage for the June woman&home cover.

The reason? A Korean skincare ingredient derived from salmon DNA that’s rapidly becoming one of beauty’s biggest talking points.“That’s why I’m glowing apparently; it’s the salmon sperm,” Davies joked in a behind-the-scenes Instagram video, after makeup artist Lydia Barnes explained that the hydrating skincare was used to create the entrepreneur's fresh, radiant base.

“I didn’t even need that much foundation because we did the skin prep,” Barnes added, explaining that the focus was on creating a glow through hydration rather than relying on heavy makeup.

The Korean skincare products behind Sara Davies’ glowing makeup

While PDRN may still sound unfamiliar to many UK beauty shoppers, it's been used in injectable polyneucleotide ‘skin booster’ treatments in Korea for over a decade. Now, it’s beginning to appear in everyday creams and serums too, thanks to its reputation for boosting hydration, supporting skin barrier repair and improving elasticity over time. British consumers are clearly catching on. According to Boots’ latest trend report, Korean skincare sales have increased fivefold, with one K-beauty product selling every 11 seconds.

To prep Davies’ skin before makeup application, Barnes cleansed and used a toner before applying two Korean skincare products – the ANUA PDRN Hyaluronic Acid Capsule 100 Serum and the brand’s PDRN Hyaluronic Acid 100 Moisturising Cream. Both formulations prioritise hydration, combining PDRN with hyaluronic acid and hydrolysed collagen. The result? “My skin felt really hydrated and it didn’t feel like you were putting on loads and loads of makeup,” Davies said in the video.

According to consultant dermatologist Dr Jinah Yoo, topical PDRN products work best when viewed as supportive rather than transformative. “You may notice calmer, more hydrated, less irritated skin and a stronger-looking barrier over several weeks of consistent use, rather than an instant transformation,” she explains. Yoo also notes that PDRN pairs particularly well with barrier-supporting ingredients such as ceramides, hyaluronic acid and niacinamide – especially for skin that feels dry, dull or increasingly reactive with age.

Davies is also a huge fan of Japanese skincare brand Tatcha, exclusively revealing to woman&home that her “splurge” product is the cult-favourite Rice Polish exfoliating cleanser. Speaking backstage at the shoot, she said: “I’ve never found a product like it. It’s supposed to be a treat a couple of times a week but I keep it in the shower and use a little bit as a cleanser every morning. My skin feels wonderful after it.”

Formulated with finely ground Japanese rice bran, the gentle exfoliator is designed to leave skin looking brighter and more refined without stripping away moisture – helping to create a smoother base that requires far less makeup overall. Sold?

There’s a reason This Works’ cult Pillow Spray has earned a permanent spot on so many bedside tables - unsurprisingly, given the brand's name, it just works.

Now, this skincare-focused range is expanding into beauty tech with its latest launch: the Red Light Body Wrap Duo. “My interest in the benefits of red light therapy began personally, during my recovery from a second hip replacement,” says Dr Anna Persaud, CEO of This Works. “I was looking for ways to support healing and reduce inflammation, and through consistent use, I noticed a meaningful difference in scar healing and overall recovery.”

Red light therapy is nothing new. In recent years, we’ve seen a surge in at-home devices – from wands and helmets to futuristic-looking face masks. It’s also big business with the global market worth $440 million and expected to reach $658 million by 2032. But with so many options available, what sets This Works’ device apart? And can it really make your hair grow faster?

Everything to know about This Works’ Red Light Wrap for the body and hair

The brand’s first-ever LED device is a wearable wrap designed to be used anywhere on the body, secured in place with a strap. For Persaud, ease of use was non-negotiable. “The key to success with red light therapy is frequency – you’ve got to want to use it,” she tells us. To see noticeable results, we’re talking three times a week for two months or more.

“Many devices are either focused on the face or are static in design, which can make them harder to integrate into everyday life,” she adds. “We wanted to create something wearable, flexible and accessible for at-home use.” The price point is also lower than many red light therapy devices, which often cost upwards of £300. This Works’ Red Light Body Wrap Duo, by comparison, comes in at £100 – and includes two wraps.

“Having two allows you to treat multiple areas at once or move between areas depending on your needs, making it far more adaptable to real life and helping support the consistency needed to see results,” Persaud says. For example, you can treat both legs at once, or pair areas like the stomach and chest.

FDA-cleared, the device uses 660nm red light and 850nm near-infrared light – two clinically recognised wavelengths commonly used in cosmetic LED treatments.

Can red light therapy really help with thinning hair?

LED devices are increasingly being used beyond just skin. “Red and near-infrared light work at different depths within the skin and scalp, supporting cellular activity and helping to create the right conditions for repair and renewal,” explains Persaud. “When used on the scalp, these wavelengths help support follicle function and overall scalp condition, creating an optimal environment for stronger, healthier-looking hair.”

But because hair growth follows a natural cycle, results take time – as well as consistency. To put the device to the test, the brand ran a 12-week trial. “In our panel, 73% of participants said their hair looked healthier after consistent use with the device and serum [more on that later],” says Persaud. “Over time, this translated into the appearance of fuller, more dense-looking hair.”

Her own experience echoed that. “I saw a real difference around my temples, where my hairline had become noticeably thinner compared to the rest of my hair.”

What makes it different from other LED devices?

The real USP, Anna tells us, is the Red Light Power Serum. “We asked, how do you support the red light? How do you make the benefits greater?” she says. “The brief was to create a skincare product that helps the device work even better.”

The star ingredient is something called coenzyme Q10 (CoQ1), “this is central to the formula, as research suggests it can help enhance the effects of red light at a cellular level.” It also contains hyaluronic acid for hydration and ectoin to help support and protect the skin barrier.

“Formulation is really important because certain products, like SPF, can reflect or scatter the light. We’ve made sure our serum is super lightweight and fast absorbing to prevent this from happening.”

How to use the Red Light Body Wrap Duo

To use the two together, apply the serum onto clean skin, allow it to absorb before securing the Red Light Body Wrap on the top and leave it on for 20-minutes. For the scalp, wear the device like a crown and wrap it around the head. For best results, Persaud recommends using it three to five times a week.

“In the early stages, within the first few weeks, users often notice improvements in skin radiance, hydration and overall quality. As you move through one to three months of consistent use, more visible changes begin to develop. This is when improvements in skin tone, texture, firmness and elasticity become more noticeable, and hair will look healthier and fuller.”

I've wanted to try Bare by Vogue - the tanning brand founded by presenter, podcaster and model Vogue Williams - for a long time.

Mainly because fellow beauty editors have told me this range does some of the best self-tan for pale skin (which, to stereotype my fellow Celtic chums, does track, given that it's Irish-founded). But also, to put my cards on the table, because I'm an avid listener of Vogue and comedian Joanne McNally's My Therapist Ghosted Me podcast, have developed a mild parasocial relationship with both women and want to see their business ventures thrive.

So there we go! If you can get over that admission, I can share the happy news that this week the beauty PR deities furnished my office post pile with my first-ever Bare by Vogue sample: a new Overnight Tan Mask.

Why this overnight tanning mask is my beauty buy of the week

It's an appealing proposition, isn't it? Slather some nice hydrating stuff on your face, climb between the sheets, then wake up all glowy and healthy-looking without any of the usual tanning-related faff.

It's especially appealing if you have temporarily vacated your house while it's being rewired and are essentially camping indoors in your friend's very kindly lent but ultimately furnitureless flat. Yes, reader, I've been "sleeping" on an air mattress. And I'm pretty sure this purple pot has been the only thing fending off deep concern over my pale and puffy pallor.

Given how careful you usually have to be with even the best self tan - exfoliate first, don't get dressed for ages, barrier cream your knees and elbows and eyebrows - this overnight mask feels mystifyingly easy.

I can't say why the colour comes out so evenly after you've spent eight hours pressing your face into your pillow or, you know, dribbling a little bit. But it does. This makes it absolutely perfect for anyone nervous about using fake tan for the first time, or who just can't be bothered usually.

As for me, I'll slap those dog-eared cards on the table once again and admit that, due to the aforementioned Celtic complexion, I'm a very seasoned tanner with a more-is-more attitude. I went straight in for round two to get my desired 'have you been away?' hit. You could do the same, or just chuck this on a couple of times a week and enjoy looking radiant regardless of how well you've been sleeping, or indeed, what you've been sleeping on. Sounds good? Great! Let's chat next Sunday.

One of the biggest joys of working in the beauty industry is the people I get to meet. Be they brand founders, makeup artists or fellow journalists, every person with beauty experience has a wealth of knowledge when it comes to tips and tricks to try. These are some of my most trusted confidants: they possess the ultimate know-how, have tried every product you can think of and have access to other top global experts.

So naturally, I decided to reach out to six 40+ women I know in beauty whose skin I've always admired, for their top skincare routine hacks. These are women who have incredible skin because they’ve done the work. They know what’s worth it – and what’s not – after years of trial and error. In other words, there was truly no one better to go to for advice.

What I hadn’t expected was just how innovative, interesting, and (at times) niche some of their words of wisdom would be. From cleansing last and "microdosing" actives to buying a sun umbrella, here’s what they had to say.

6 women with the best skin share their tips and hacks

1. Mira Parmar, 45, celebrity makeup artist

As a respected makeup artist with plenty of experience under her belt, Mira Parmar has a unique set of knowledge that combines artistry with skincare hacks. Here are her favourites to share.

1. Get icy: “Ice cubes in a muslin cloth can act as an ‘ice facial’ to depuff and tighten pores,” she says. This is particularly appealing in the hotter summer months!
2. Invest in silk: Silk accessories are beloved for a reason – and Parmar likes pillowcases the most. “Use silk pillowcases to create less friction on the skin, for better moisture retention and for less sleep lines on the face,” she advises.
3. Don’t forget the skin on your body: As well as facial skincare, remember to treat your body with all-over care. And one special hack Parmar has? “Applying body oil to slightly damp skin to lock in moisture and give skin a glow.”

2. Sara Tarca, 45, beauty editor

Melbourne-based Sara Tarca, 45, is a beauty editor, content creator and co-founder of the weekly newsletter, gloss etc. Tarca has a wealth of experience within the beauty industry to pull from – and she certainly takes skincare seriously. "I work my products smarter, so they don’t have to work harder for the same effect," she says.

1. Take sun protection seriously:“In addition to wearing SPF every day (yes, even in winter), I carry a sun umbrella around with me that’s UV blocking (my favourite is from Blunt Umbrellas). Sorry to get all ‘beauty editor’ on you, but the sun is the number one cause of premature ageing, so reducing UV exposure is the cheapest ageing hack ever. Also, an umbrella is way chicer than a hat, and saves the hat hair.”
2. Collagen intake: “I’ve taken marine collagen every day for the last decade, and it’s made such a difference to my skin, especially the quality and elasticity. The only downside of this is that once you start taking it, you have to keep at it because the results will slow down if you give it up (I know, I know, not ideal) – you have to be consistent.”
3. Light layers rather than rich creams: “It seems counterintuitive,” says the journalist, “but heavy creams just sit on top of the skin.” Instead, she uses “a hydrating cleanser, then a milky toner (so underrated - try it, it’s made SUCH a difference to my skin), a serum and a moisturiser.”
4. Layer retinol with a peptide serum: The newsletter founder says: “This combination has made a significant difference to my skin and the softening of lines - it’s just a perfect pairing. My ultimate combo is Medik8 Liquid Peptides Advanced MP and Crystal Retinal.”
5. Store your tools effectively: For Tarca, it’s all about where you’re keeping your skincare: “All my sheet masks and rollers live in the fridge. I feel like this gives them a double benefit of doing the job they were designed for AND cooling/depuffing the skin as well. Cold rolling the skin just feels so good, and is a great way to wake up the skin and get the blood flowing."

3. Pamela Marshall, 58, clinical aesthetician

Pamela Marshall, clinical aesthetician and founder of Mortar & Milk, has spent years treating skin and counts top beauty editors and Hollywood actors among her clientele. Here are her non-negotiables for her best skin ever.

1. Cleanse last: “I always make cleansing my skin the last thing I do when getting ready. My order is: brush teeth, double shampoo, rinse, condition, rinse and then cleanse the face,” Marshall says. “Toothpaste, shampoos and conditioners can attach to the skin, so it's always best to cleanse the face last. I also always remove my cleanser with a warm flannel.”
2. Control your environment: For the facialist, keeping her sheets clean is essential. “I wash them at least once a week in hot water, with no fragrance. These days, environmental grime gets on our hair, and unless we’re washing it every night before bed, we end up rolling around in that dirt and grime during the night. Clean sheets help support the barrier function of our skin.”
3. ‘Microdose’ your actives: Marshall is selective when it comes to actives: “I don't overload my skin with lots of products.” She adds: “Actives work as wounding ingredients and we use them to wound the skin, which activates our healing mechanism. This is great in theory, but I find for the long-term health of our skin, microdosing is a much better option than hitting it with a hammer of harsh actives.”
4. Invest in top tools. “Nanocurrent [such as the ZIIP device] is excellent at increasing the ATP (energy) in our cells so that they perform at their best. I love it so much that I use it almost every day,” notes Marshall.

4. Madeleine Spencer, 41, journalist & makeup artist

Madeleine Spencer, 41, beauty journalist & makeup artist, has spent a lifetime trialling products and getting to know her skin through her job. She has three go-to tips for the best skin ever.

1. Reframe how you think about your skin: “I try to remember my skin’s an organ, and give it the care that all organs need – good nutrition, movement, sleep, that sort of thing," she explains.
2. Avoiding actives is actually OK: “All the prevailing advice is to use loads of actives [think: retinol, AHAs and BHAs etc],” says Spencer. “I do the opposite; my skin’s volatile by nature, and I don’t find that kicking it into shape works. Instead, I focus on hydration, protection and cleanliness to keep it calm and healthy.”
3. Avoid magnifying mirrors: “I chucked away my close up mirrors – one of my major skin woes was picking at it and making it angry,” the journalist tells me. “Now, I just treat it more carefully and don’t panic about small issues. Also, handily, this means I don’t see 'imperfections' as often, so it’s a win-win.”

5. Dr Christine Hall, 44, aesthetic doctor

Dr Christine Hall, 44, is a skincare expert, pharmacist and aesthetic doctor at Taktouk Clinic. She is always asked about her habits and here are her top three.

1. Always, always, always use your sun protection: “I know it’s really boring but wearing SPF every single day without fail is my number one tip, and always will be,” says the doctor.
2. Consider skin boosters: “I use injectable skin boosters like Redensity 1, as topicals can really only go so far," Dr Hall notes. "It’s amazing for added hydration – like the icing on the cake.” She also sometimes combines microneedling with skin boosters for double the impact.
3. Apply products to damp skin: “This applies to hydrating products, as your skin is more absorbent when it’s damp.” On the flip side, she adds that you must apply anything potentially irritating (like retinol) to dry skin.

6. Charlotte Ferguson, 42, founder of skincare brand DISCIPLE

For Charlotte Ferguson, founder of DISCIPLE, it’s one key approach to her skincare routine that’s totally transformed how her skin looks and feels: Try product stacking.

“At 42, I finally feel like I have a good idea of what works for my skin, in terms of both products and routines,” she says. Instead of skin cycling (alternating actives each day with a break between), I have found that ‘stacking’ products works incredibly well for me.”

This means she applies active ingredients two or three days in a row with a hydrating rest day in between. “I use a gentle acid, like The Ordinary Lactic Acid 10% + HA 2% or COSRX AHA/BHA Clarifying Treatment Toner, directly onto the skin, not with cotton pads. My ‘break day’ then features lots of hydration and moisture: think hyaluronic acid, plant oils and, of course, SPF. Then, I’ll use my pro-retinol product for two or three nights in a row. DISCIPLE Dreamy Skin Retinyl Oil works well as it’s so gentle.”

,She concludes: “I don’t have particularly sensitive skin but it can be dehydrated. I find this method gives my skin an opportunity to get the most out of the actives I’m using – it works like a semi-intense blast for a few days, with a break in between. It is important to gauge for yourself how your skin is feeling when using this method, however.”

As a beauty journalist with more than 8 years’ experience in the industry, I’ve interviewed hundreds of skin experts – from world-renowned dermatologists to leading aesthetic doctors. And if there’s one piece of advice that never wavers, it’s this: wear a broad-spectrum SPF every single day.

Ask any expert, and you’ll hear some version of the same thing – that sun exposure is the single biggest contributor to premature ageing, and that daily sunscreen is one of the most effective ways to reduce your risk of skin cancer. Which is why the heading “How the sun helps skin age well” in Liz Earle’s latest book, How to Age, stopped me in my tracks.

An authority in the world of wellbeing, health and nutrition, Liz Earle has spent decades championing a holistic approach to ageing well. From travelling to the Blue Zones for This Morning to founding her own magazine, Liz Earle Wellbeing, she’s built a career on exploring what it means to live better for longer. Many will also know her as the co-founder of her eponymous skincare line (the one behind the cult Hot Cloth Cleanser), which helped pioneer the natural beauty movement long before sustainability became industry shorthand.

Now in her sixties, the serial entrepreneur has distilled more than 35 years of knowledge into her latest book. How to Age is positioned as a “wake-up call” – a rallying cry to take control of cellular ageing by understanding what the body needs to thrive. Chapters span everything from anti-inflammatory nutrition and longevity-focused biohacking to what she calls “the new science of pro-ageing beauty.” Naturally, it was the latter I turned to first.

Why Liz Earle doesn't wear SPF first thing in the morning

In chapter 11 of How to Age, Liz Earle builds her argument around one central idea: that the way our skin ages is closely tied to its circadian rhythm. Like the rest of the body, skin operates on a 24-hour cycle. It shifts from daytime protection into overnight repair – and, when that rhythm is in sync, it appears stronger, clearer and more resilient.

It’s here that light comes into play. While early-morning sunlight is already widely recognised for regulating the body clock, Earle takes this a step further – aknowledging that skin cells themselves respond directly to light, not just to signals from the brain. Fibroblasts, the cells responsible for producing collagen and elastin, are governed by their own circadian clocks, which, she argues, are reset through exposure to daylight.

From this perspective, brief early-morning light on bare skin acts as a kind of daily “reset”, helping to prime these cells for the day ahead. Earle links this to improved collagen production, more efficient DNA repair and stronger mitochondrial function within skin cells (all processes associated with healthier, more resilient skin over time).

It’s this thinking that underpins her stance on SPF. Rather than advocating for constant application from the moment you wake up, she suggests a more considered approach – delaying sunscreen first thing in the morning to allow these light-driven processes to take place, before introducing protection as UV levels rise.

It’s important to add that Earle isn’t anti-SPF. In fact, she acknowledges that excessive UV exposure is a key driver of photoageing and skin damage, and that protection becomes increasingly important later on in the day. Not alone in this thinking, Dr Barbara Sturm has similarly spoken about allowing short, controlled periods of unprotected exposure in the early morning and late afternoon, while still advocating for sunscreen in high-UV environments. The emphasis, from both, is on timing and moderation – not avoidance.

And yet, this is where the conversation becomes more complicated. While circadian health and light exposure are growing areas of interest, the relationship between ultraviolet radiation and skin damage remains one of the most well-established facts in dermatology. In the UK, the vast majority of melanoma skin cancer cases are considered preventable, with excessive UV exposure often cited as the primary cause. Against that backdrop, Earle's book certainly opens up a new conversation around the sun and our skin that's well worth having.

Spring is finally making itself known, which can only mean one thing: more skin on show. While we might not be ready for full summer dressing just yet, it often starts with the legs – bare ankles one day, calves the next, and suddenly you’re reaching for a pair of linen Bermuda shorts.

For skin that hasn’t seen the sun since last September, a sweep of your best self-tan is the quickest way to restore a believable, healthy-looking glow. But according to faux-glow pros, legs are one of the trickiest areas to get right. As Melanie Brownlow, founder of St. Moriz, explains, “sometimes, you may notice that your tan develops more subtly on the legs in comparison to other areas of the body.”

With drier skin (thanks to months of cold weather and central heating), areas like knees and ankles are prone to clinging, so achieving an even finish often comes down to careful prep and the right formula. Ahead, Brownlow shares her top tips on how to fake tan your legs like a pro.

How to tan your legs for even, patch-free results

1. Check your self tan is still in date

Before you reach for that bottle at the back of your bathroom cabinet, it’s worth asking yourself when you first opened it. Like all beauty products, self-tan has a shelf life – and using an expired formula could be the reason your glow isn’t developing as expected. “As a general rule, self-tanning products have a shelf life of around six months after opening,” says Brownlow.

There are a few key indicators that your tan may be past its best. “Discolouration and a change in smell are the most common, although this can vary depending on the formula. For example, a mousse may start to appear slightly green as it oxidises over time,” she adds. If in doubt, it’s always best to replace it.

2. Exfoliate and remove hair ahead of application

Thorough skin preparation is essential for an even, long-lasting tan. “If you shave your legs, it’s always a good idea to do this ahead of applying self-tan,” says Brownlow. The day before is ideal, but at the very least, leave around 20 minutes between shaving and application. “It’s important that the skin is cool before tanning, as hot water opens pores, which can lead to uneven results and pitting – often referred to as ‘strawberry skin’.”

In the days leading up to application, adding in dry body brushing can help refine the skin further, sweeping away dead cells so tan applies more evenly. “Creating a smooth base should always be your first step,” Brownlow notes, adding that regular exfoliation (whether that’s with a brush or body scrub) also helps remove any leftover tan and excess oil, ensuring you’re working with a clean canvas every time.

3. Go for a gradual

Designed to build colour slowly, a gradual tan offers more control over the final finish, while also delivering a welcome hit of hydration in this area. “Gradual self-tan is your best option for legs, enabling you to give your skin a believable glow without going fully bronzed,” says Brownlow. “It’s also a great way to lock in extra moisture, especially if your skin is on the drier side, preventing tan from clinging to dry patches.” For the most even finish, she recommends blending in circular motions and paying special attention to the knees.

4. Keep skin hydrated for an even fade

Once your tan has developed, maintaining it comes down to hydration. Well-moisturised skin helps colour fade more evenly, reducing the risk of patchiness - particularly on areas like the knees and shins. As Brownlow notes, “no matter your tan of choice, always finish with a body oil for an added level of radiance.” For longer-lasting results, however, we’d suggest a lightweight body moisturiser instead – as anything oil-based can break down the DHA in self-tanner, causing it to fade faster.

There are very few names in the skincare world that carry the same weight as Caroline Hirons. Long before ingredient-led routines became mainstream, she was the one cutting through the noise - demystifying formulations, calling out industry fluff and reshaping how many of us approach our skincare altogether (hello, double cleansing).

Her advice is famously no-nonsense; it gets straight to the point and, more importantly, it just makes sense. In her book, Skincare: The Ultimate No-Nonsense Guide, she likens applying eye cream over moisturiser to wearing a bra over a T-shirt - a visual that’s hard to forget. It’s that ability to translate complex routines into something instantly understandable that has earned her such lasting trust.

That same clarity underpins her skincare line, Skin Rocks, which has always championed a barrier-first approach while still delivering on results. The Gentle Acid quickly became a go-to for regular exfoliation, and now, she’s expanding on that with The Strong Acid, a more intensive formula designed for those looking to take things a step further. True to form, it also comes with a clear message: this is not one for beginners.

Everything you need to know about Caroline Hirons' latest skincare launch

What makes The Strong Acid different from your typical exfoliating acid?

As the name suggests, The Strong Acid doesn’t hold back. It contains a high concentration of skincare acids (over 15%) and is formulated at a deliberately low pH, making it more potent than your average acid toner. “We wanted a clear differentiation between The Strong and Gentle Acids - not to scare people off, but to be clear that it really does pack a punch,” says Hirons.

Rather than relying on a single acid, the formula combines seven to tackle multiple concerns in one step. “Using five different AHAs means we can target dullness, texture, uneven skin tone and fine lines from different angles, supported by the PHA, which helps to increase hydration too,” she explains.

There’s also a BHA (salicylic acid) in the mix to help clear congestion and refine pores - so if you’re dealing with both dullness and the occasional breakout, it covers both bases. “If your main concern is dullness or texture, but you experience the odd breakout, this formula will work wonders for your skin,” seconds Hirons. Expect brighter, smoother-looking skin from the first use, with results building over time.

Who should (and shouldn’t) be using a high-strength acid like this?

“Anyone who has never used an exfoliating acid before or who is an irregular user of acids should not use The Strong Acid, and it’s certainly not for anyone with sensitive or sensitised skin,” says Hirons. The Gentle Acid is designed for the average user, whereas The Strong Acid is specifically for more experienced skin.

“If you have used acids containing AHAs regularly in the past without any irritation and are looking for a stronger formula, you can try The Strong Acid,” she continues. A slight tingling sensation is normal due to the low pH, but it shouldn’t sting or burn. “If you do experience any prolonged stinging, burning or redness, stop all acids until your skin has returned to normal,” she advises. If you’re unsure, patch test first - ideally on the forehead, where skin tends to be less reactive.

For those concerned about disrupting their skin barrier, Hirons is clear that strong actives and barrier care can co-exist. “There will always be a place, and a need, for both,” she says, adding that her approach remains firmly barrier-first - something reflected in every Skin Rocks product, which includes guidance on who it isn’t suitable for. As she puts it, “we’re still the only brand that will tell you not to use our product on our packaging.”

Why exfoliating becomes more important for midlife skin

From our 30s onwards, skin cell turnover begins to slow, which can lead to dullness, uneven texture and a loss of radiance. This is where exfoliation becomes more impactful - helping to shift the build-up of older skin cells and reveal fresher, brighter skin underneath.

When it comes to application, The Strong Acid isn’t designed for daily use. Instead, introduce it gradually (up to three times a week in the evening) - sweeping it over the face and neck with a cotton pad and avoiding the eye area. By removing that top layer of dead skin, it allows the rest of your routine to absorb more effectively, although it’s best to avoid using it alongside retinoids on the same night.

“This is the acid that I use in my own routine,” says Hirons. “If you want resurfaced, renewed and glowing skin, this is the one.” With continued use, expect smoother, brighter and more even-looking skin - just don’t skip SPF!

Boasting a lineup of innovative formulas that work to reveal a glass skin glow, K-beauty has undoubtedly been the talk of the skincare town lately, much of which was driven by the trending sheet masks.

You might associate one of the best face masks with a pamper evening spent lying on the sofa, sipping on a cup of tea, accompanied by your go-to comfort film. However, the narrative is being flipped when it comes to Korean face masks. Thanks to their comfortable gel design that is intended to be left on the skin for hours, you can now find people wearing these masks during long-haul flights, as they're typing away at their laptops on work-from-home days or even as they're sleeping.

Packed full of powerful active ingredients, Korean face masks are now unsurprisingly gaining popularity in the UK and beyond – even being used as skincare prep by celebrity makeup artists. So, we decided to hand them out to the woman&home team to get their honest thoughts on the K-beauty phenomenon to see whether they're really worth all the talk...

Why is everyone talking about Korean face masks?

Korean face masks, as we know them now, initially debuted on the K-beauty scene back in the 90's, before facing a significant rise in popularity in Korea in the 2000s. However, it's only in the last few years that they've been globally gaining traction.

Setting them apart from other face masks on the market, these masks are typically made from hydro-gel materials that aid comfortable wear, deep absorption and intense hydration, making them especially great for combatting dryness, textural changes and any loss of elasticity in menopausal skin.

After being treated to a haul of Korean face masks one morning in the office, and having raved about them myself, it was only natural that I handed them out to the rest of the woman&home team to get their thoughts on the face masks too. Just one week later, I walked into the office and all talk turned to the masks

Impressed by their comfort, these face masks have left quite the positive impression on Lifestyle Editor, Tamara Kelly, who said: "I've never experienced anything like it from a home treatment. My skin felt and looked like glass the next morning and for a few days after. My skin was clearly very dehydrated, so this mask replenished moisture to plump the skin and leave it glowing – I had so many compliments that week on how good my skin looked. I'm definitely buying more to keep up the good work."

Aside from the glow and hydration of these masks, another win highlighted by Tamara was ease: "They are well-proportioned, with the eye holes and mouth gap perfectly positioned, so it feels comfortable to wear, which is what made it so easy to sleep in. They are also thicker and pliable than other masks (they feel like a gel), so they stayed in place much better, even while moving around the house before bed."

It doesn't stop there, our Celebrity Writer, Ariana Longson has also been incorporating Korean face masks into her weekly skincare routine: "Korean face masks are my absolute go-to's at the moment, specifically when I want an extra glow before a big event or night out. My current favourite is the Anua Rice 70 Glow Collagen Mask, I put it on the night before and leave it on until it's translucent."

The results speak for themselves, Ariana says: "It leaves me waking up with plump, glowy and hydrated glass skin that looks good without make-up but is also great prep and a base for when I'm doing a full face."

After initially assuming I was late to the Korean face mask trend, I have gone on to trial a fair few on the market. From the iconic Biodance and Medicube offerings to Anua and Sungboon Editor options, I'd say I'm now well-versed in the K-beauty face mask world. I've always been an avid face mask user, but I've never been left overly impressed with the results. So, I was expecting much of the same from Korean face masks, but boy was I wrong."

While you have to leave them on for a few hours to completely dry down and work their magic, the results are more than worth it. Not only do they leave my skin feeling deeply hydrated, plumper and radiant, but I also noticed they helped keep my complexion clear and smooth. They're especially great if you've got an event coming up in the diary, or your skin is simply in need of a pick-me-up.

Digital Beauty Writer, Naomi Jamieson has been relying on the bestselling Biodance Bio Collagen-Real Deep Mask for her pre-wedding skin prep. She says, "Korean masks are literally like a glass of water for your skin. I love how instantly cooling they feel and how you can sleep with them on (or wear them for at least four hours, depending on your preference), as my one gripe with other sheet masks is how quickly they dry out."

Speaking of which, Naomi opts to wear them overnight to achieve maximum results: "Personally, I prefer to sleep in them, as I find them very soothing and love waking up in the morning, peeling the mask back and revealing my now-radiant skin. They do such an incredible job at hydrating and adding a glassy gleam to your complexion. I have quite dry skin, but have found that these dewy results last all day."

While most of us are meticulous about taking care of our faces, the chest doesn't always enjoy the same level of care and attention. It's an easy area to forget, but also an unfortunate one, given that the skin on your neck and décolletage can age up to 20 times faster than the skin on your face.

The main reason for this is that the chest area is one of the most UV-exposed body parts, and if you're not wearing SPF every day, you may start to notice a smattering of pigmentation and a mottled appearance. Then, as elasticity begins to reduce over time, the texture of skin on your chest can start to feel thin and crepey.

The big question is, can skincare fade pigmentation in this area and smooth out chest crinkles? As an often overlooked area, where regular skincare habits are found wanting, topical products can certainly help to improve uneven skin tone and texture - as can powerful in-clinic treatments. Here are the best ways to treasure your chest.

What skincare ingredients can reverse a pigmented or crepey chest?

"The décolletage often ages earlier and more noticeably than the face because the skin here is thinner, contains fewer oil glands and is exposed daily to UV damage," explains Dr Priya Verma, multi-award-winning Aesthetic Doctor. "Over time, collagen and elastin decline, leading to crepey overlying skin, fine lines and laxity."

Shifting the top layers of mottled skin with regular exfoliation and skin-sloughing ingredients like Azelaic acid and tranexamic acid can help to break up hyperpigmentation. "For daily maintenance, I recommend retinoids, peptides, along with a broad-spectrum SPF," explains Dr Verma. "Sun protection is arguably the most important step in preventing neck and chest ageing. Ingredients like hyaluronic acid, ceramides and niacinamide help support the barrier, soften crepiness and improve hydration."

How to refresh your chest in the clinic

"Topical products can make a meaningful difference to skin texture, but they cannot replicate the lifting effect of in-clinic procedures," admits Dr Verma. One of the most effective ways to clear unwanted pigmentation on your décolleté is with a non-ablative laser treatment. This will break down the pigment in the deeper layers of your skin, all while keeping the top layer intact. That means minimal downtime (just a few days of redness), and it has the welcome side effect of boosting collagen production.

Dr Verma recommends LaseMD used in tandem with polynucleotides. "Both the laser and injectable allow for skin strengthening through collagen production, but also help with pigmentation and UV damage by mopping up excess pigment in the skin," she explains.

If you have a lot of superficial pigmentation, as well as deep melasma, aesthetic doctor Dr Brendan Khong combines the Aerolase Neo Elite laser with the Aerolase Era Elite, to target the top layer of skin, too. There's much more downtime with this option, though, ranging from five to 14 days. All options are suitable for all skin tones.

• LaseMD Ultra at ART Clinic, prices start at £450 per session. Four sessions are recommended, spaced four weeks apart.
• Polynucleotides (neck and dec) at ART Clinic, prices start at £400 per session. Three to four sessions are recommended, performed alongside the LaseMD treatment.
• Aerolase Reverse (Neo and Era lasers) with Dr Brendan Khong, prices start at £2,300 for face, neck and décolleté. One session per year is recommended.

The body care market is booming – currently worth $69.53bn and predicted to reach $97.27bn by 2032. And it’s not just growing in size, but in sophistication, too. Increasingly, beauty brands are applying the same level of innovation once reserved for facial skincare to body formulas, with a focus on strengthening the skin barrier and optimising skin function.

It makes a lot of sense. The face accounts for just 3.5% of the body’s surface area, yet historically it’s where most of our skincare attention (and investment) has gone. Now, that imbalance is starting to shift, with a new wave of lotions and potions designed to treat mature skin from the neck down with the same level of care.

Just this week alone, four new body care products landed on my desk. Among them was Elemis Pro-Collagen Marine Body Cream. Fans of Elemis will already be familiar with its best-selling Pro-Collagen Marine Face Cream, a long-standing favourite that’s loved for its hydrating and smoothing results, which has now been reimagined as a top-to-toe treatment.

Inside the Elemis Pro-Collagen Marine Body Cream – and what it does for your skin

The Elemis Pro-Collagen Marine Body Cream is, in essence, a body-first extension of the brand’s best-selling moisturiser. While it borrows the same lightweight texture and signature rose-and-mimosa scent, the formula has been adapted for the thicker, often drier skin found on the body – where concerns like dullness, dehydration and crepiness tend to show up first.

At the core of the formula, you’ll find marine actives typically associated with facial skincare. Chlorella vulgaris, a type of algae, is included for its firming properties, while padina pavonica ferment helps support hydration over time. The result is a cream that feels more treatment-led than your average body moisturiser – designed not just to soften skin, but to visibly smooth and subtly firm it with consistent use.

The launch also sits alongside a new body iteration of the Elemis Pro-Collagen Cleansing Balm – another of the brand’s most recognisable formulas. Reimagined as a shower product, it transforms from a balm into a milk and then a light foam on contact with water, leaving skin feeling clean, soft and comfortably hydrated. This will be especially welcome if you have a dry skin type or have rough or crepey skin in places.

As for the Pro-Collagen Marine Body Cream’s texture, it has a gel-cream hybrid feel. It absorbs quickly, leaving skin feeling hydrated but not sticky, which makes it a good option for daily use – especially if you don’t like heavier, oil-rich formulas. The brand claims it can double hydration in a single use and improve firmness over four weeks, although, as always, results will depend on consistency and skin type.

If your main concern is dryness, it will tick that box immediately. But is it worth the £70 splurge? If you’re already a fan of Pro-Collagen Marine Cream and want that same lightweight hydration in a body formula, it’s an easy addition to your skincare routine. Equally, if you have specific skincare concerns on your body and want to tackle them head-on, such as crepiness, or you simply want your body care to feel a bit more results-driven, it’s a strong contender. Albeit, all those results come at a far more premium price point than your standard moisturiser.

Would you carry out 12 skincare steps every day? Asking for a friend. A doctor friend, no less, who has just released the ultimate "structured, doctor-led approach to adult skincare".

It's not as complex as it sounds. It's six steps in the morning and six at night - some of which are the same (your best cleanser will make an appearance more than once) And as the expert behind it all, Consultant Dermatologist at The Devonshire Clinic, Dr Conal Perrett, explains, many of us are using lots of products already, but not in the most effective way.

“In reality, many people are investing consistently but not seeing meaningful change because they’re stopping short of the treatments that can make a real difference,” said Dr Perrett, after analysing YouGov's 2026 Anti-Ageing report. And, happily, he went on to detail a step-by-step breakdown of everything we should be doing to get results.

The most effective skincare routine, according to a dermatologist

YouGov's study contains so many interesting insights. The part that caught Dr Perrett's eye was that 60% of UK adults are regularly buying skincare products, but the vast majority never use powerful actives. And so he has helpfully aimed to get us past this hurdle by outlining his optimum 12-step daily regimen, "aimed at supporting skin health, barrier function and anti-ageing outcomes more effectively." Et voila:

• Morning routine
• Cleanser: Removes sweat, oil, bacteria and overnight products, creating a clean base for active ingredients.
• Toner: Modern formulas hydrate, rebalance pH or deliver light active ingredients.
• Treatment serums: Target concerns such as hydration, pigmentation or oil control; apply from thinnest to thickest texture.
• Eye cream: Supports hydration in the delicate under-eye area.
• Moisturiser: Locks in hydration and supports the skin barrier.
• Suncream: Protects against UV damage, which accounts for up to 80–90% of visible skin ageing; SPF 30+ recommended daily, even on cloudy days.
• Evening routine
• Cleanser: Double cleansing may help remove SPF, makeup, and impurities.
• Toner: Hydrating or lightly exfoliating, depending on skin type.
• Treatment products: Retinol, AHAs/BHAs or prescribed actives, often used at night due to increased sun sensitivity.
• Hydrating serum: Helps minimise irritation and support skin recovery.
• Moisturiser: Seals in treatments and prevents dryness.
• Facial oil: Applied last to lock in moisture and actives.

Our beauty editor's morning picks

Our beauty editor's evening picks

While 12 steps sounds like a lot, some of these can be combined or swapped around. For example, you can opt to use the same cleanser day and night - and the best toner for your skin may be the same formula in the morning and evening too - the same goes for your best facial moisturiser.

Stronger actives such as alpha hydroxy acids and retinoids work well when swapped in and out night by night, and more skin-type-specific products, such as an oil, can be added in, or not, at your discretion. As with anything to do with skincare, there's nuance in the conversation.

But with so much skincare noise out there, it is a gift to have this clear, Dr-approved list, designed for pure efficacy, and broken down in steps. As Dr Perrett says himself, "Patients today don’t want dramatic changes. They want to look like a fresher version of themselves. The trend is moving towards natural, preventative approaches, but education is key. Closing this gap is about giving people clear, medically-led guidance so they can make informed decisions, rather than relying on trial and error with products alone.”

If you keep your eye on the skincare world, you might've noticed the recent buzz around PDRN – AKA Polydeoxyribonucleotides, if we're talking in scientific terms.

What started as an injectable treatment, PDRN has gone on to become extremely popular in Korean skincare products. Now, the DNA-derived ingredient can be found on the labels of the best facial moisturisers to the best hyaluronic acid serum. With so much talk about PDRN all of a sudden, you may be wondering what exactly it is.

We took that very question to three experts, including two dermatologists, so they could explain everything we need to know about PDRN. We're talking about what it is, where it comes from, the benefits of using it and whether it's worth incorporating into a routine for mature skin.

An expert guide to the K-Beauty phenomenon, PDRN

Before we get into the science behind the ingredient, if you're looking to incorporate PDRN into your skincare routine, we've rounded up a few popular K-beauty buys on the market that feature the talked-about ingredient – from a hydrating serum to a restoring ointment.

What is PDRN?

So, what exactly is PDRN? As consultant dermatologist, Dr Magnus Lynch explains: "PDRN is polydeoxyribonucleotides, and it is a mixture of DNA and RNA fragments which are derived most commonly from salmon or trout DNA. There is evidence that it can help with tissue repair and regeneration and is often used as an injectable treatment for the skin." If injectables are your game, our beauty editor's polyneucleotides review has all the details on the more invasive side of PDRN.

As for the effects PDRN has on your skin, Alethea Demetriou, Product Strategy & Merchandising Manager at K-Beauty emporium Pureseoul says: "Think of it as a reset button for your skin - encouraging a healthier glow, smoother texture, and quicker recovery after treatments."

What are the benefits of using PDRN?

Whether you opt for an injectable treatment or a topical formula, you might be wondering what benefits you can expect to notice on your skin. Emma Coleman, Dermatology Nurse & Founder of Emma Coleman Skin Clinics, explains: "PDRN triggers the skin to repair tissue through stimulating the cells responsible for producing collagen and elastin. In addition to skin renewal and faster recovery after microneedling or lasers, it is also being considered within a medical setting as an aid to wound healing."

Dr Magnus Lynch agrees by noting similar evidence: "It can improve tissue repair, reduce inflammation, and stimulate collagen production, resulting in improvement in hydration and skin appearance." However, he also adds that much of this evidence is seen in injectable usage: "It's important to emphasise that the evidence is strongest for injectable usage and there is not good evidence that it will work as a topical treatment as it will not penetrate the skin barrier."

Who should be using PDRN?

Wondering if you're a suitable candidate for using PDRN? As Dr Magnus Lynch advises: "It is best suited for ageing skin or conditions such as acne and scarring. I would be cautious to use it in those with sensitive skin, and it should be avoided by those who have an allergy to fish."

Alethea Demetriou adds: "PDRN is suitable for all ages and skin types, making it a highly versatile option for overall skin health. From the mid-20s onward, it can be used to support hydration and early collagen preservation, while in more mature skin, it helps improve elasticity, smooth fine lines, and restore a firmer, more youthful look."

For those considering active injectables, Emma Coleman also recommends: "As it is an active injectable, each client should be checked for suitability, particularly if they suffer from any pre-existing skin conditions or sensitivity."

Should I incorporate PDRN into my skincare routine? If so, how?

"In the right patient, injectable PDRN can be helpful, although it is important to have realistic expectations, and often the benefits are subtle. It can also be used as a topical treatment, but the evidence here is weak, and it would not be the first thing that I would suggest to patients," says Dr Magnus Lynch.

However, if you're looking to add PDRN into your at-home skincare routine, Alethea Demetriou advises: "At Pureseol, we recommend introducing PDRN to your skincare routine gradually - start with 2–3 times a week to see how your skin responds, and then increase usage as tolerated. PDRN can be included in a variety of products, such as eye patches, creams, face masks, and serums."

How does PDRN differ to vegan PDRN?

Much like PDRN, vegan PDRN is also an ingredient that has been floating around in recent years. While we know PDRN typically means DNA derived from salmon, it might leave you questioning where vegan PDRN comes from.

Dr Magnus Lynch explains: "Traditional PDRN is derived from salmon or trout DNA. There may be some concerns that this is animal-derived. An alternative is vegan PDRN, which is derived from plants. There is significantly less evidence for this; however, it may be that this evidence becomes more robust in the future."

Meet the experts

South Korea has long led the way in pushing skincare boundaries, introducing ingredients and technologies that often take years to reach the UK. The latest to cross over? Spicule skincare.

Often referred to as ‘liquid microneedling’, spicules are tiny, needle-like structures suspended in skincare that help drive active ingredients deeper into the dermis. Already gaining traction among beauty insiders, veteran journalist Nadine Baggott is a huge fan.

Sharing her enthusiasm alongside aesthetic doctor and K-beauty expert Dr Christine Hall, the two discussed the science of spicules at a recent Erborian event celebrating the brand’s latest launch: Ginseng Micro Shot (which, you guessed it, contains spicules). “Micro spicules have been around for 10 years in Korea,” Hall tells us. “So, although they’re very new to us, it’s reassuring to know that this technology has been around for a long time.”

What is spicule skincare and how does it work?

Spicules, like traditional microneedling tools, can penetrate the surface very superficially – just enough to help active ingredients absorb more effectively, while gently stimulating the skin’s natural renewal response.

“Spicules are microscopic, needle-like structures typically derived from sea sponges, made up of highly purified silica,” explains Hall. While invisible to the naked eye, under a microscope they resemble tiny shards designed to sit within the skin’s surface layer.

“Spicules sit in the stratum corneum, so very superficially,” continues Hall. “They gently exfoliate and create micro-channels in the skin.” These micro-channels allow the active ingredients within the formula to penetrate more effectively, while also triggering a mild ‘micro-trauma’ response – something that can support collagen production over time.

“Within 24 hours, the spicules have naturally shed,” says Hall. “They’ve done their job and there’s nothing left in the skin.” You may feel a slight tingling sensation immediately after application, particularly when pressing the product in, but this should subside after a few minutes.

Who should use spicule skincare?

Spicule skincare can suit a wide range of skin types, especially those looking to improve texture, clarity and overall radiance. It can also be used on breakout-prone skin, with some Korean studies suggesting benefits for compromised skin. However, it’s not for everyone.

“If you have very reactive or highly sensitive skin, it’s best to start cautiously,” advises Hall. “And I wouldn’t recommend using it on broken skin or conditions like eczema or rosacea.” As with any active-led skincare, a patch test is essential (especially as the spicules remain in the skin for up to 24 hours after application). It’s also advised to avoid use during pregnancy or breastfeeding.

Can spicules be combined with retinoids or exfoliating acids?

Because spicules enhance ingredient absorption, layering them with already potent actives like retinoids or exfoliating acids can increase the risk of irritation. According to Hall, this is a big no-no. “I wouldn’t follow with retinoids or exfoliating acids. They don’t need help penetrating the skin barrier, and doing so can increase side effects.”

Instead, she recommends pairing spicules with calming, hydrating ingredients like centella asiatica or barrier-supporting serums, to maximise results without overwhelming the skin. Baggott takes a similar approach: “I use a retinol most nights, so I treat this like I would a lactic acid and use it on the nights I’m not using retinol.”

How to incorporate spicule skincare into your routine

After cleansing, apply your spicule serum in the evening, gently pressing it into the skin. Beginners should start with a lower concentration once or twice a week, building up gradually. Stronger formulas (meaning a higher concentration of spicules) can be used more regularly once your skin has adjusted – and are often the level at which brands begin making claims around fine lines and texture.

“You can feel the spicules when you press them into the skin,” says Hall. “It’s more of a tingle than anything painful.” Baggott seconds this: “I went straight to the stronger Eborian 0.3% serum – and had zero downtime.” Over time, consistent use can help improve skin clarity and smoothness, while delivering that sought-after glass skin glow – all without the downtime associated with in-clinic microneedling.

More Korean spicule skincare we love

We hear lots of talk about a damaged skin barrier, but how can you actually tell whether your complexion falls into this category?

It's not unusual to experience a handful of unexplained skin concerns and be totally unaware that a damaged skin barrier is the cause of it all. And if you're unaware that you have a damaged skin barrier, you might be sabotaging your skincare routine by using products that worsen the damage.

So, with this question in mind (plus many more), we decided to quiz five top dermatologists for their expert advice, including signs to look out for that point to damaged skin barrier, ingredients you should be avoiding and how to repair a compromised complexion – including the best gentle cleansers and best facial moisturisers with skin-loving formulas.

Dermatologists reveal the warning signs of a damaged skin barrier

The skin barrier is the outer layer of the complexion that plays a vital role in the healthy function of your skin. However, the likes of over-exfoliation, products with harsh active ingredients and environmental stressors (such as pollution and cold weather) can all contribute to weakening and damaging the skin barrier.

If the following signs feel all too relatable to you, you might need to strip back your skincare routine and invest in a few strengthening and reparative formulas. So, without further ado, find three of our team's tried and tested gentle, barrier-repairing buys...

What are the most common signs of a damaged skin barrier?

When it comes to detecting a damaged skin barrier, there are a handful of common signs that are worth keeping an eye out for. As Dr Magnus Lynch, Consultant Dermatologist, explains: "Signs of an impaired barrier include dryness, redness, irritation, stinging, burning or skin sensitivity."

Additionally, it's worth noting how your go-to skincare products are feeling when you apply them. Dr Emma Goulding, Founder of Dr Emma Goulding Aesthetics, says: "Another very common sign is that products you’ve used comfortably for years begin to sting or burn. When the barrier is weakened, the skin loses moisture more easily and becomes much more reactive to both skincare and environmental stress.”

The appearance of your complexion may also differ, as Dr Nora Jaafar, Dermatological and Aesthetic Doctor, notes: "The skin may also appear dull, flaky or more prone to breakouts because the barrier is no longer effectively protecting against irritants and bacteria."

To summarise, these are the most common signs that the experts say to look out for...

• Dryness
• Redness
• Irritation
• Stinging, burning or skin sensitivity to products you've used for years
• Dullness
• Flaking
• More prone to breakouts

What causes a damaged skin barrier?

So, what actually causes a damaged skin barrier? Well, as explained by Dr Emma Goulding, there's a few reasons behind a weakened epidermis: "In many cases it comes down to well-intentioned but excessive skincare. Layering too many active ingredients - particularly exfoliating acids, retinoids and vitamin C - can gradually disrupt the skin’s lipid barrier."

It's also important to carefully consider which cleanser you're using in your routine, as Dr Nora Jaafar adds: "Over-cleansing or using too many products at once can also disrupt the barrier’s natural lipid structure."

Dr Emma Goulding also notes: "Environmental factors such as pollution, cold weather and UV exposure can worsen the situation, but quite often the issue simply starts because the skin has been pushed beyond what it can comfortably tolerate.”

Is it possible to repair?

If the signs of a damaged skin barrier are feeling all too relatable, there's no need to panic as you'll be pleased to know that it is possible to repair your complexion. In fact, Dr. Asima Nasir, Medical Director Orskin Aesthetics, explains: “Fortunately, the skin barrier is quite resilient and can repair itself when given the right conditions."

As for the best way to approach this, Dr. Nasir advises: "The most effective approach is usually to simplify your routine and focus on hydration, barrier support and calming ingredients. Once inflammation settles and moisture levels improve, the skin is often able to rebuild its protective function quite effectively.”

How long does it take to fix?

As noted by Dr Sreedhar Krishna, Consultant Dermatologist: "Milder cases may improve within one to two weeks." However, if you've experienced persistent inflammation or more significant damage, Dr Nora Jaafar explains that the repair time will be slightly longer: "More significant damage may take three to six weeks, as this roughly aligns with the skin’s natural renewal cycle."

Either way, Dr. Asima Nasir advises: “Consistency is key – the skin needs a period of calm in order to restore its natural balance and rebuild its protective lipid layer.”

What ingredients should you avoid?

Once you've identified a damaged skin barrier, there are a number of ingredients and products that you should temporarily avoid using to prevent causing further irritation and delay the recovery process. “During this time, it’s best to pause strong exfoliating acids such as glycolic, lactic and salicylic acid, high-strength retinoids and heavily fragranced products. Alcohol-based toners and abrasive scrubs can also worsen irritation," says Dr. Asima Nasir.

In agreement, Dr Sreedhar Krishna adds: "It is sensible to temporarily stop stronger actives such as retinoids, exfoliating acids, and physical scrubs. Fragrance-heavy products and very foaming cleansers can also aggravate already sensitive skin."

However, this doesn't mean cut the products out of your routine forever, Dr Nasir explains: "Once the skin stops stinging, redness settles and hydration improves, active ingredients can be reintroduced slowly – ideally one product at a time and only once or twice a week to begin with.”

What's the best way to repair it?

If you're wondering where to start with your new barrier-strengthening routine, thankfully, the experts weigh in on their advised step-by-step regimes. To begin, Dr. Asima Nasir suggests: “The best strategy is to simplify the routine and prioritise barrier-supportive ingredients. Start with a gentle, non-stripping cleanser, followed by a moisturiser containing ceramides, cholesterol and fatty acids, which help rebuild the skin’s lipid layer."

Gentle hydration is also key, as Dr Nora Jaafar explains: "Hydrating ingredients like glycerin, hyaluronic acid and panthenol can also help restore moisture while the skin barrier recovers." Not to mention, the importance of using a sunscreen every day, Dr Magnus Lynch says: "It is important to use a broad-spectrum SPF every day, of course, but especially whilst the skin is healing."

Meet the expert panel

For as long as I can remember, I’ve always been of the sweaty variety. Girls back at school could simply pop their school uniforms back on post-P.E. lessons, whereas I would need about a can's worth of deodorant just to mask the body odour, secretly longing for a shower to properly refresh. Years later, I still get sweaty walking up a hill, am an oil-slick on a summer’s day, and even get hormonal night sweats aplenty (even when I’m sleeping, it never ends!)

So learning that all-over body deodorant was hitting the mainstream in a big way allowed me to breathe a small sigh of relief; finally, there was a product on the market not only designed to target lower back, boob and inner-thigh sweat, but there was finally something beginning to normalise this problem. We’re so used to talking about body odour as it refers to underarm sweat, but we shy away from going further to discuss what causes excessive sweating in those other "taboo" areas.

Since then, I've tried several body deodorants, as well as spoken to some experts about their benefits. Here, I share what I’ve learned over the past year or so.

What is full body deodorant?

A specially-designed body deodorant is as it sounds, a product that can be used across the body on areas that tend to get sweaty, outside of the obvious. “All-over body deodorants are essentially products designed to control odour caused by sweat and skin bacteria in areas beyond the underarms,” explains Consultant Dermatologist Dr Sidra Khan.

They contain ingredients that curb sweating, while also being safe to use all over and in many cases, replenish the skin. They can be used on areas such as between the breasts, on the lower back, between the thighs and across the chest.

How are they different from 'regular' deodorant?

Of course, primarily, these formulas differ because of the areas in which you can use them. According to Jennifer Blanco-Barcia, Dove Marketing Manager, Dove’s all-over products differ from underarm deodorants because they can be used “across the entire body, including sensitive skin areas like folds and intimate zones.” She also notes that the make-up of the brand’s formulas sets them apart from "regular" deos: “Their skin-nourishing ingredients help keep skin soft while providing long-lasting odour protection, making them suitable for areas that traditional deodorants aren’t designed for.”

To truly understand the difference, Dr Khan says it’s essential to know how deodorants and antiperspirants work in their own unique ways. “They do slightly different things,” she notes. “Deodorants primarily work by reducing the bacteria that cause odour, whereas antiperspirants contain aluminium salts that temporarily reduce sweat production by blocking sweat glands.”

She continues: “Many ‘all-over’ products are designed as deodorants, rather than strong antiperspirants, because they’re intended for more sensitive body areas, like under the breasts or inner thighs. Their focus is therefore on odour control and comfort, rather than significantly reducing sweating.”

What are the best full body deodorants?

I’ve tested several of these formulas over the past year or so– here are my picks of the best buys.

When is a full body deodorant most useful?

There are lots of situations in which body deodorant can come in handy, and many people who can benefit from using one. As mentioned, those who generally tend to get sweaty in everyday life in areas other than the underarms will get a lot from using these. And as someone who experiences nighttime sweating, a body deo is a godsend for this, also.

But equally, they can be brilliant for specific circumstances, such as during menopause or peri-menopause, when periods of hot flushing are common, and for psychological reasons as well as practical ones. “While they won’t prevent the hormonal changes driving hot flushes, they can be a practical coping tool, and feeling prepared can help reduce some of the anxiety or self-consciousness that can accompany these episodes,” explains Dr Khan. “Additionally, there will always be groups of people who cannot, or choose not to, take tablet medications to control their symptoms, so having tools like this is important.”

In general, body deodorants can be an effective tool in managing body sweating and odour, as well as the stigma around it. “From a dermatology perspective, they can be helpful for people who experience sweating or friction in body folds. The key benefit is improving comfort and confidence, provided the product is gentle and well tolerated on sensitive skin,” Khan concludes.

Have you managed to get out in the garden much this week? I'm making a few assumptions there; firstly that you have a garden and secondly, that, like me, you're itching to get your potter on the second early spring hits.

As a devoted member of the Monty Don mafia, I find a morning's gardening gives me the same soulful pleasure as closing my eyes in the middle of a dancefloor at 2 am. But do you know who can't stand all that mulching and weeding and weather-exposure? My poor mitts.

Of course, enthusiasm for cultivation is not the only reason to be interested in the best hand creams. All hands get dry, uncomfortable and tonally compromised, and I've been using a new treatment that'd be brilliant for outdoorsy and indoorsy hands alike.

Why this effective hand treatment is my beauty buy of the week

I find it a bit fearmongery when people refer to hands as an 'age giveaway' - as if we should all be lying about our age and terrified of being found out. But just as many conspiracy theories grow from a tiny sapling of truth, the roots of this idea stem from the fact that we do tend to take better care of our faces than our paws.

There's a huge market for hand creams out there, but most focus on basic hydration, smelling nice and not much else. Actual skincare to treat things like age spots on our hands and textural changes is quite thin on the ground, particularly from mainstream high street brands.

There's so much going on with this cream, I haven't even got to the texture yet, which is perfection. Rich and quenching, but ungreasy. It hangs around in the skin, so your hands feel comfy and protected for several hours after you rub it in.

This ongoing barrier is very helpful, should you find yourself, say, scrubbing your palms with cheap kitchen soap because you couldn't wait another second to pot up your sweet peas, risk of frost be damned. Or - oh, I don't know - ripping weeds out with your bare hands because you spotted four more in the border but had already put your gloves away. Sounds good? Great! Let's chat next Sunday.

Perhaps it’s the growing appetite for results that don’t feel immediately obvious, but non-injectable skin treatments are fast becoming the focus of the aesthetics world. Rather than altering the face, the goal is to improve what’s already there – refining skin quality, boosting firmness and restoring a more rested appearance.

Designed to work deeper within the skin, many of these advanced treatments (from HIFU to Ultherapy) focus on stimulating collagen and supporting long-term skin health, with results that build gradually over time. It mirrors what many women are now looking for – to appear fresher and rejuvenated, while still recognising themselves in the mirror.

For Tamzin Outhwaite, that balance was key. After noticing changes in her skin, the actress began looking for a treatment that would lift and firm without compromising how her face moved. So when people began commenting on her ‘facelift’, she was quick to clarify. "I’ve never had a facelift…that was the whole point," she said, revealing that it was non-surgical treatment, NeoGen, behind her results.

Why Tamzin Outhwaite chose NeoGen over a facelift

Rather than chasing dramatic change, Outhwaite wanted to address the subtle shifts she’d noticed in her skin. After losing a bit of weight, she noticed a loss of firmness and definition through the jawline and cheeks, something she says, "was getting me down a bit."

Keen to find a non-invasive solution, she began researching alternatives and found many of the top 2026 aesthetic trends focus on rejuvenation. ‘I definitely didn’t want to go under the knife. I didn’t want any form of facelift, and I’m extremely wary of having injectables because I’m an actor and I need to have an expressive face,’ she explained. She was drawn to NeoGen after seeing the results on others – namely Shirley Ballas, whose noticeably firmer, more lifted complexion helped cement her decision.

What followed was a course of treatments over the span of a year, beginning with three monthly sessions before extending to a total of eight. While the results weren’t instant, they built steadily – something Outhwaite says felt far more natural. ‘After the first three treatments, I could really see a major improvement; the general texture of the skin was improved, and where it had looked a bit dull and lifeless before, it was now really radiant and more dewy,’ she said.

According to her practitioner, Dr Maryam McMillan, NeoGen was particularly well-suited to Outhwaite’s lifestyle. With a busy filming schedule and limited tolerance for downtime, the treatment offered a way to improve skin quality without disrupting her work commitments. Sessions were tailored to target specific concerns, from softening lines around the eyes and mouth to improving redness and enlarged pores, with additional passes used on areas needing more intensive rejuvenation.

‘The most striking change is that it's tighter, my jawline and cheeks were getting a bit saggy before, but they aren't any more. The general skin quality is improved as well, my pores are definitely smaller, my complexion is smoother and more uniform in tone. Previously, there were red patches caused by broken blood vessels; they've also gone,’ said Outhwaite. Happy with her decision, she credits her newfound confidence with the treatment.

What is NeoGen?

NeoGen is a non-invasive skin treatment that uses nitrogen plasma technology to rejuvenate the complexion from within. Rather than working on the surface, it delivers controlled thermal energy into the deeper layers of the skin, triggering a natural repair response and encouraging the production of collagen and elastin (aka the proteins responsible for firmness, elasticity and overall skin quality).

What sets it apart from more aggressive resurfacing treatments is that it leaves the skin’s surface largely intact. This means downtime is minimal, while results develop gradually over time, making it a popular option for those looking to improve tone, texture and laxity without the disruption associated with more invasive procedures.

It can be used to target a range of concerns, from fine lines and pigmentation to sagging around the jawline and cheeks, with treatment plans tailored depending on the skin’s needs and sensitivity. Costs will vary depending on the clinic and treatment plan, but prices typically start from around £750 per session, with courses often recommended for best results.

Tamzin Outhwaite had a series of NeoGen treatments with Dr Maryam McMillan at the Ambra Clinic in Finchley, north London. Most clinics treatment prices start at £750 per session (full face and neck), £1,990 for three, or £3,850 for six.

To find your closest clinic go to neogenplasma.co.uk

K-beauty has been making waves over on UK shores in recent years, and for good reason too. Many Korean skincare products boast innovative, skin-first formulas that use high-quality ingredients, yet still boast affordable price tags.

With all that said, it's unsurprising that the best Korean toner pads have worked their way into the skincare routines of many, thanks to their ability to deliver the complexion with a desirable glass skin finish. So, it's only natural that one of the most well-known Korean beauty brands, Glow Recipe, have delved into into the market with their latest launch.

With three to choose from, these new Korean toner pads even made their way into the 2026 Oscars goodie bags – meaning many A-list celebs went home with these tubs in tow. But, are they worth the investment? Our beauty shopping experts have put them to the test, here are their honest thoughts...

Our team's honest thoughts on the Glow Recipe Korean Toner Pads

If you haven't seen the launch of the all-new Glow Recipe Korean Toner Pads, let us introduce you. The brand has debuted three targeted treatments that are designed to combat different skin concerns, including a dull complexion, irritation and blemish-prone skin.

Aleesha Badkar, Beauty Shopping and eCommerce Editor

Aleesha Badkar, Beauty eCommerce and Shopping Editor, chooses to use a combination of the Glow Recipe Korean Toner Pads to treat different areas of her complexion. "While I have perpetually dry skin on my chin and the skin around my mouth, my cheeks and forehead are shine central, so skincare for me is all about spot treating - treating different areas of skin with different products, depending on their specific needs, so these pads slid straight into my routine after my first use," she says.

As for the application experience and results, Aleesha notes: "Drenched in product, these feel quenching on the skin as soon as you apply them. The small and curved shape of these allow me to treat only certain areas of the faces, so while the reparative PDRN pads go straight on my chin for soothing and hydrating, the brightening pads give my cheeks a soft and healthy-looking glow."

Sennen Prickett, Digital Beauty Writer

As someone with oily, blemish-prone skin that is on the sensitive side, it was only natural that our Digital Beauty Writer, Sennen Prickett opted for the LHA and AHA Exfoliating Toner Pads. "I always feel slightly daunted when it comes to trying an exfoliating formulas, as I don't know how my temperamental skin will react. However, these gentle pads have seamlessly slotted into my skincare routine, without causing my complexion any irritation or breakouts."

Sennen tested the waters to see whether her skin reacted to the exfoliating pads by simply sweeping them onto her skin, however has since opted for a new application method: "When I faced no reaction after sweeping the pads over my complexion, I began leaving them on for 15 minutes as a 'mask' technique. While I wouldn't opt for using them daily, I reach for these nifty pads a couple times a week to give my skin a refresh."

In terms of the effects of the LHA + AHA Exfoliating Pads, Sennen notes: "I naturally have a fairly dull complexion, but these pre-soaked pads help reveal a clearer, radiant and more even skin tone. With use of once to twice a week, they've helped keep my hormonal blemishes at bay and have given my skin an overall smoother appearance."

Your Korean Toner Pad FAQs, answered by the Glow Recipe Founders

For those that still have some questions on Korean toner pads, worry not as we've quizzed the Glow Recipe founders, Christine Chang and Sarah Lee, about the questions on everyone's minds. From the purpose of toner pads to which Glow Recipe toner pad is best suited to you, here's everything you need to know.

What is the purpose of the toner pads?

Essentially combining the benefits of a toner and exfoliation into one step, Korean toner pads are pre-soaked pads infused with skincare ingredients and are designed to target an array of skin concerns.

"In Korea, toner pads aren’t an extra step – they’re a daily staple, used to prep skin before makeup or to gently smooth and brighten in the evening,” says Christine Chang, co-founder and co-CEO of Glow Recipe. As for why Glow Recipe decided to launch their very own formula, Chang adds: “We created toner pads to bring the results of a Korean facial into a simple, everyday ritual. Inspired by mini sheet masks, each pad is designed for targeted areas and delivers visible benefits in just five minutes."

“We love that they provide targeted results while fitting seamlessly into real life. While there are many great options in the Korean market, we wanted to take efficacy further: enhancing skin benefits, prioritising sensitivity, and delivering noticeable results quickly for busy lifestyles.” - Sarah Lee, co-founder and co-CEO of Glow Recipe

Do toner pads replace the toner in your routine?

So, should we be swapping out the best toner in our routine for Korean toner pads? Christine weighs in: “Toner pads are used after cleansing, just lift a single pad at a time with the enclosed tweezers and place them on any areas of concern (i.e. cheeks, forehead, nose, chin). We created these toner pads to be left on the skin for 5 minutes for a ‘facial in a pad’ experience - afterwards, we recommend to follow with your usual routine, such as toner, serum and moisturiser.”

How often do you use toner pads?

If you're wondering how often you're supposed to be incorporating toner pads into your skincare routine, Christine advises:“All three toner pads are gentle enough for daily AM & PM, I love to use them first thing in the morning and then in the evening before I go to bed."

However, if this is your first time trialling toner pads, Chang recommends: "If you’re new to toner pads, we suggest using them a few times a week and increase frequency from there.”

Who are the Glow Recipe toner pads best suited for?

With lots of different options on the market, it can make it a challenging task to identify which toner pads are right for you and your personal skin type. As for the Glow Recipe Korean Toner Pads, Lee says: “Our toner pads can be used on all skin types, including sensitive skin. Each one is a targeted treatment you can choose based on what your skin needs that day, and we recommend multi-masking on different areas of the face for a more customised approach."

While the Vitamin C option are ideal for those wanting to brighten and refresh their complexion, the LHA + AHA pads do a stellar job at gently exfoliating and hydrating congested skin. As for the last of the trio, Sarah Lee says: "The PDRN+ Repair + Soothe Toner Pads are ideal for irritated, dry, or sensitised skin, delivering ultra soothing care while helping support skin barrier repair for more resilient skin.”

What is PDRN and what does it do?

If you've had your eye on the beauty landscape in recent months, you'll most likely have heard of the term PDRN – but what exactly is it? As Christine Chang explains: “PDRN (polydeoxyribonucleotide) is a regenerative ingredient traditionally derived from salmon DNA, and often used in derm office treatments."

However staying true to their vegan and cruelty-free brand values, the Glow Recipe founders opted to develop an alternative made from white rice and prickly pear that still offers similar results to salmon-derived PDRN. "When applied topically helps to strengthen the barrier, and visibly reduce irritation," explains Chang.

That said, its lower molecular weight also brings some impressive benefits compared to animal derived PDRN, the co-founder says: "This allows for more efficient absorption and efficacy as well as higher DNA purity and batch to batch consistency vs. animal derived PDRN so that it works even for more sensitive, irritation-prone skin."

There is so much to admire about Jessie Buckley. The Irish actor is not only a master of her craft - as proven by last night's Best Actress Academy Award win - she is also an inspiring speaker and an elegant source of style inspiration.

It's the latter we're here to talk about today, specifically her beautiful, sheer, and short nails at the glitzy ceremony, which we've dubbed the 'naked manicure'. This minimal look is not only one of our favourite 2026 nail trends, but it's also extremely easy to achieve at home.

How do we know? Because Buckley's nail artist, Queenie Nguyen, has revealed exactly what went into creating the look, including the crucial hand prep step for 'softer, smoother, and completely camera-ready' hands.

The important prep product behind Jessie Buckley's Oscars mani

Sharing a carousel of red carpet shots, as well as a behind-the-scenes snapshot of every product she used on Buckley's hands and nails, Queenie Nguyen (@nailartbyqueenie) truly delivered the goods on Instagram after the 98th Academy Awards.

"Before Jessie Buckley hit the red carpet for the Oscars, it’s really important for me to prep her hands with deep, long-lasting hydration so they stay smooth and luminous throughout the night," Nguyen explained, before revealing the powerful hand treatment she used on the night:

Nguyen continues, "It leaves the hands softer, smoother, and completely camera-ready for a night like the Oscars."

We love to see hand care get its moment in the spotlight like this. While nail appointments and at-home painting are a lovely treat, and the latest spring nail shades can spark so much joy, using the best hand cream with potent skincare ingredients can truly breathe new life into your hands.

As for the nail shade Jessie wore on her winning night, we spotted two timeless, elegant, and ultra sheer Chanel nail polish shades in Nguyen's kit.

There's nothing we enjoy more than a celebrity manicure moment that manages to tick all the boxes: It's chic, caring and achievable on short nail lengths. We officially crown Buckley and Nguyen's creation our Best Actress nail look of the 98th Academy Awards.