If you’ve been wondering is it safe to use fake tan in pregnancy, we can understand why. As your body grows, a golden glow can help to streamline and provide a much-needed confidence boost in a time of change.

We all know that there’s no such thing as a healthy suntan so while we’re all for moments of relaxation in pregnancy, sunbathing on a lounger is not advisable. Similarly, using sunbeds in pregnancy is a big no-no - quite frankly, it’s dangerous whether you’re pregnant or not.

The easier and safer option comes from a bottle. “The reason for this," explains skincare expert Michaella Bolder, "is cream, mousse and lotion cannot penetrate through the skin and into the bloodstream. It is just a surface reaction created through our own amino acids and DHA, which results in a brown veil over the skin."

We’ve aske the experts on the safest way to use fake tan in pregnancy, the ingredients to avoid and the best formulas to achieve a golden glow while you’re expecting.

Is it safe to use fake tan in pregnancy?

If you’re expecting or trying to conceive, you’ll know that there are skincare ingredients to avoid during pregnancy like retinoids, hydroquinone and certain acids. Luckily for those seeking sunkissed skin, self-tan creams, lotions and mousses are generally considered to be safe.

According to the NHS, “The active ingredient in fake tan is dihydroxyacetone (DHA). This is a non-toxic substance that reacts with cells in the outermost layer of the skin and produces a brown pigment (colour) called melanoidin. As the DHA isn't thought to go beyond the outer layer of skin, it isn't absorbed into the body and can't harm your baby."

Some expectant mothers may still have concerns about using fake tan in pregnancy, so let's break it down. The DHA used in creams, lotions, waters, mousse and gels is made of large molecules, therefore making it difficult to penetrate the skin, and never beyond the outermost layer of the epidermis, known as the stratum corneum. Erythrulose - a sugar found in red fruits - is another active tanning ingredient, often used in conjunction with dihydroxyacetone to deliver a more natural-looking, longer-lasting tan. Similarly, there’s little evidence to suggest that erythrulose is harmful to mum or baby.

There are also stringent safety restrictions in place regarding these ingredients. The EU and UK government dictate that self-tan products must be limited to a maximum of 10 per cent DHA, but most contain far lower than the limit, around 3-5 per cent.

"While DHA is safe, some fake tans have ingredients that pregnant women might want to avoid, like parabens and phthalates," cautions Dr Raja, Aesthetic Doctor and General Practitioner at Derma Aesthetics London. "Parabens are preservatives that might disrupt hormones, and phthalates, used for fragrance, have been linked to potential developmental issues. To minimise risks, choose products labelled as paraben-free and phthalate-free."

Experts do caution against using aerosol or spray tans, as the DHA can be inhaled or ingested. If dihydroxyacetone enters the lungs it can then be absorbed into the bloodstream. To be safe, stick to a self-tan you can rub in, not a mist or spray.

Whichever type of tan you choose, patch-testing is essential. "During pregnancy, our hormones can create adverse reactions and unusual responses to food, haircare, skincare and, of course, tanning products," explains Michaella Bolder. "This can include skin rashes, allergies, hyperpigmentation, acne, eczema and so on. With a heightened hormone sensitivity, there can be responses with DHA (the key tanning ingredient) that make the skin turn green, patchy or not change colour at all. So patch testing on an area such as the chest or arms is a great way to avoid any issues."

Best fake tans products to use in pregnancy 

Mousse, lotion, gel, cream or water self-tans are considered safe by experts. If you’re struggling with dryness in pregnancy, look for moisturising creams and lotions to offset dry, tight skin. Colourless formulas are a great option if you want to avoid staining on your sheets and pyjamas - you’ll have enough washing to do once the baby arrives! Whatever your preference, there’s something for everyone on our carefully curated list of fake tans to use in pregnancy and beyond.

Spray-tanning during pregnancy 

It is recommended to avoid aerosol tans during pregnancy, and also professional spray tans since the fine mist is so easily inhaled. According to the NHS, “The effects of breathing in the spray are not known.”

Dr Sonia Khorana, Cosmetic Doctor and Dermatology Expert on behalf of Faace backs this up: "We don’t yet know the effects of inhaling DHA, so, it’s better to avoid spray tans at home or at the tanning salon."

If you are going to chance a spray tan while pregnant, there are a few things to consider. "Ensure good ventilation to minimise inhaling spray tan particles, and wearing a mask can help," advises Dr Raja. "It’s also a good idea to perform an allergy test beforehand, as pregnancy can make your skin more sensitive." If you're unsure, contact your GP or midwife.

Fake tan products to avoid in pregnancy 

Nobody - pregnant or otherwise - should use sunbeds. The NHS also recommends avoiding tanning pills, stating that “they contain ingredients that may be toxic to an unborn baby.” Tanning pills are actually banned in the UK but can be purchased online. They may contain colour additives known as carotenoids, which could harm the foetus.

Tanning injections (melanotan) are also illegal to sell in the UK, but can still be found online and in some tanning salons. Melanotan is an artificial hormone that kickstarts the body’s pigment-making cells to darken skin, but it has not been adequately tested for safety, so avoid when pregnant and after the birth.

Looking for the best fake tan that’s easy to apply when you’ve got a quick 20 minutes? We’ve got you covered with these tried and tested recommendations.

Most of us don't have time to schlep out to get a spray tan, but luckily the at-home fake tans have come a long way. Using a lotion or mousse is also a much safer tanning option when you're pregnant, when spray tans should be avoided. 

They’re quick to develop, easy to use and are packed with skincare-worthy ingredients. Many have even managed to banish that tell-tale biscuity smell too. In short, you won’t be needing to learn how to remove fake tan in a hurry. 

And, they have the added benefit of giving you a little confidence boost. "Self-tan makes you feel confident as the added warmth makes your skin look healthy and rested," James Read, tanning expert tells us. "It brings on an endless summer feeling which makes us all feel happier." 

Remember though, just because you might look bronzed that doesn’t mean you get a free pass on sun protection. You’ll still need to be topping up with the best suncream for families and best sunscreen for your face to shield your skin – especially during the summer months. 

What to consider when choosing the best fake tan

• Time: Some tans need to be left on overnight for around eight hours while express formulas only need to be on your skin for as little as one hour. The latter will be the best fake tan for you if you don’t like sleeping in it or are worried about staining your sheets.
• Gradual or not gradual: If you’re a fake tan newbie, or only want to dip your toe in, gradual tan is a great option. You won’t get a look-at-me glow overnight but can build up the colour over a few days. It’s a great slap-on-and-go solution if you’re short on time.
• Shade: Most tans come in a choice of two or three shades – normally light, medium or dark. Some brands go beyond this, and take the undertones of your skin into consideration too. St Moritz has a range of colour-correcting tans, and Bondi Sands has recently launched their Technicolor collection which caters for cool, olive, golden and deep skin tones.
• Formula: Fake tan can take many different forms. There are creams, lotions, mousses, mists, waters and drops. The type of tan you choose will depend on the kind of textures you like, convenience and the look you’re going for.
• Guide colour: The guide colour in your tan is an instant tint to help you see any areas you might have missed. This colour doesn’t stay on the skin and comes off when you shower, but is the part of the tan that tends to stain your sheets. Not all tans have a guide colour.

Best fake tan for a golden glow 

We’re big believers that if it’s not broken, don’t fix it, and there’s a reason why Garnier Summer Body has been earning its keep in our bathroom cupboards for so many years. One of the original gradual tans, it’s the perfect best fake tan choice if you want to take a softly-softly approach to tanning rather than going the whole bronze. Simple use as a moisturiser, and repeat the following day for a deeper colour. 

Our Senior Beauty Editor Rhiannon Derbyshire swears by this formula. "I'm very much a tan-phobe - I find the admin of having to remember to exfoliate and shave 24 hours before a bit much," she says. "What I love about this is that you can use it the same slightly haphazard way you might apply a body lotion – without having to worry about going patchy or orange. It’s one of those tans that absolutely anyone could use and is pretty much foolproof. It adds a subtle hint of colour immediately, which is handy for mornings when you want to wear a skirt or dress and don’t want to look too pasty. If you want to be really bronzed, use it for two or three days in a row – this tactic has never steered me wrong so far."

Low on time? This is the best fake tan for you. Instead of needing to marinate on your skin overnight, it only needs to be left on for between 30 minutes and three hours depending on how deep a glow you want. The fade is super even too, and you don’t get those annoying patches in the crease of your elbow or blotchy-looking feet.

Beauty writer Jess Beech says this is her favourite ever formula. "I adore this tanning formula. It gets to work quickly and always produces the best-looking tan. I've been experimenting with timings, and have found that if you shower after one hour then the tan that develops over the next eight hours or so is the perfect depth for faking a two-week holiday - and it lasts for a whole week!"

The lack of guide colour put us off a bit at first - and does mean you have to really pay attention to avoid any missed spots, but the extra few minutes spent here still outweighs the potential time spent re-washing orange bed sheets. 

We touched on this a little bit earlier, but tanning brands are stepping away from the idea that you choose your shade solely by the depth of tan you want to achieve, and are now taking your undertones into account too. 

"I used Bondi Sand’s Technocolour shade finder and was given the shade Cool, which is the best fake tan for (you guessed it) a cool undertone as well as a pale complexion," says Beauty Editor Jess Beech

"Instead of the usual caramel or brown hue fake tan, the foam guide colour is a sort of sludgy grey, which initially made my skin look a little bit sickly. There’s method to it though, as that blue/grey shade is there to help you steer clear of the orange hues that look unnatural on this skin tone. I left the mousse on for an hour before showering, and I had a healthy-looking glow within eight hours. It isn’t super long-lasting, and had mostly faded after about three days, but would be great for a special occasion or weekend away."

Self-conscious about your legs? You’re definitely not alone. This tinted serum is a real oldie but goodie when it comes to the best fake tan, and one that this beauty team come back to time and time again. It’s instant, which means no development time, and washes off, which means no need to exfoliate away. The downside of this is that it can wash away if you get your legs wet when wearing it (we’ve learnt that the hard way) so try to be careful of spilt drinks and getting caught in the rain without a brolly. 

It has a serum texture that melts onto the skin and is easy to blend, and because it’s tinted you can instantly see any missed patches. Senior Beauty Editor, Rhiannon Derbyshire, swears by this golden shimmer. "I use this bronze liquid when I'm short on time and need to be out the door in seconds. One coat delivers a glossy finish and what I like to call taking-the-edge-off colour to make my stark, sun-starved legs not look quite so pale." Although it says legs in the name, it works just as well on the rest of your body too. 

There’s a reason why the majority of the best fake tan for the body are mousses, and that’s because they’re so easy to use without dripping the excess all over your wrists or the bathroom floor. This one needs to be left on overnight, and the shade is medium to dark, so this is only really going to be a good option if you have a naturally deeper skin tone or favour an intense glow. Boasting a quick dry, the non-sticky tanning mousse is instantly wearable, with a powder-soft finish. The best results are when left on the skin for eight hours for full development.

This deep tan is powered by skin-loving ingredients like hyaluronic acid, niacinamide and vitamin E, so it doesn't go patchy and can last much longer on your skin. This particular one is a favourite of Beauty Writer, Annie Milroy. "This is a fake tan formula that I reach for time and time again when I have a big event and want a slightly darker tan. It's easy to apply, looks authentic and lasts a good while, too!"

New kid on the block Self Glow is the re-vamped brand from tanning guru James Read. Offering a glow rather than a deep tan, his new range of glow-giving products are suitable for all skin tones and provide a gorgeous radiance to the skin. "It's more about a glow these days - you want that added skin warmth, it’s as if the sun has hit your skin. That was the thinking behind my new tan products, they're like a golden hour on the skin," he tells us. 

This gradual tan product melts into the skin instantly and works to tone and smooth your body. The light-weight serum contains plant-based DHA which adapts to each person's individual complexion and delivers a natural-looking luminous glow from head to toe. Apply this before bed and overnight this subtle formula will give you a lovely light tan. 

Tanning drops like these are brilliant as they put you in control of how deep your tan goes. Plus, you can mix them with your moisturiser, which means you don’t have to compromise on your skincare routine either. As they are customisable, you can adjust slightly if you buy the wrong one. For example, we’ve been known to use more of the light or less of the medium depending on which ones we have in the bathroom cabinet.

Beauty Editor, Stephanie Maylor loves using these drops to boost her radiance. "Isle of Paradise’s tanning drops are one of my favourites and I love to drizzle a couple of drops into my favourite night cream when my face looks like it needs it hasn't seen the sun in a while. As a busy mum I don't have time for a dedicated tanning routine so the fact I can add these into my existing routine is such a win!"

Start off by just adding a couple of drops to your moisturiser and see how it looks by morning – you can always add more the next day. Oh, and given it’s not the sort of tan you use a mitt with, it is super important to wash your hands after use to avoid stained palms. We forgot, and the fade on our palms took a good week. 

Tanning your face is a tricky one, as it tends to mean having to sacrifice your normal night-time moisturiser in favour of a tanning product. Combine this with the fact that DHA, the active ingredient in fake tan, is notoriously dehydrating, and a bronzed face comes at the price of parched, slightly uncomfortable skin. So thank god we discovered this hydrating dream. Coming in a clever mist formation, this couldn't be quicker or easier to apply over your skincare products. 

The tanning water is infused with hyaluronic acid, green mandarin and hibiscus to hydrate and soothe your complexion. After a few hours, a gorgeous golden glow will develop and keep you looking healthy and radiant. Apply over skincare products or on naked skin for an easy way to maintain your summer glow all year round. Beauty Writer Annie Milroy uses this mist a couple of times each week after she's applied her skincare products. "It manages to work over the top of even the thickest of night creams," she says. "I always wake up to a sun-kissed complexion in the morning. My favourite part of this has to be that you can do this (almost) hands-free in just a couple of seconds."

Coming to your aid when last-minute plans arise or the surprise sunshine means you have to show off your limbs unexpectedly, this tan is one of the fastest-acting tans around. The clear tanning water delivers the luxury appearance of a spray tan in the comfort of your own home meaning you don't even have to make time to leave the house for a beauty treatment. The lightweight formula works in as little as two hours to create a natural golden glow or in four hours for a deep bronze colour. 

The clever Triple Tan+ Technology adapts to your unique skin tone to create the perfect universal colour with long-lasting results for up to 10 days of wear. Enriched with a hydra-boost complex that nourishes the skin as your tan develops and a unique peptide blend helps visibly smooth the skin for even coverage. We love that this provides nearly instant results and offers the ability to tailor it to your very own tans needs. Perfect for busy mums who can't find the time to go and have a spray tan, this delivers salon-worthy results with ease. 

Whether you’re a seasoned tanner or new to the self-tanning world, this clear tanning water promises to work for everyone. The water-based formula is packed with skin-loving ingredients to ensure a smooth, streak-free application onto your skin and a long-lasting finish. To apply, load up a mitt with the clear product and work into your skin all over your body, there will be a slight sheen so you can see where you've applied. 

After 4 - 8 hours a lovely light tan will appear and thanks to the water-based formula, the colour should last you a good few days. New mum and Beauty Editor Jess Beech loves this lightweight formula. "This particular tan is so ideal for those short on time like me as you can apply it in the morning and as it's completely undetectable, wear it throughout the day and by the evening a golden glow will have appeared and doesn't need washing off! I love using it a couple of times a week for a subtle glow."

How we tested the best fake tan

When testing the best fake tans we applied each to clean skin using a mitt. We left them on for a week to see how they faded over time and then exfoliated away the remaining tan away to repeat the process with the next one. The ones that made this list all delivered on the following criteria:

• Easy to apply – We all lead busy lives, and no one wants a tan that requires you to study the instructions before applying. To slot seamlessly into our day it needs to be intuitive to use.
• Non-streaky – A streaky tan is not what we’re aiming for here. We want the fake stuff to deliver an even, natural-looking colour that doesn’t cling in particular places and leave others pale.
• Fades evenly – It’s unrealistic to expect your fake tan to stay at its just-applied best for more than a couple of days, but what you don’t want is a tan that fades in patches.
• Believable colour – Ideally, your faux glow should be the kind that invites compliments like ‘you look well’ and ‘have you been away?’ rather than ‘which fake tan are you using’? It shouldn’t be too much deeper than your natural skin tone, or stray into orange territory.

Looking for more product recommendations? Check out our guides to the best long-lasting perfumes, and the best red lipsticks.

We spoke to the following experts:

Using the best sunscreen for your face every day, rain or shine is an essential aspect of skincare.

All experts agree that using the best sun creams is a non-negotiable way of keeping your skin safe. According to Harley Street consultant dermatologist Dr Ophelia Veraitch, “Our faces are exposed to UV light and visible light on a daily basis. UVA causes skin ageing and hyperpigmentation. UVB causes damage that increases the risk of developing skin cancer. The skin is exposed to these factors on a daily basis, no matter what the season or whether you’re inside or outside - rays can penetrate through clouds and windows.”

Not only is it important to use sunscreen to prevent skin cancer symptoms, studies show that sun damage accounts for 80% of signs of ageing. Thankfully, sun creams have come a long way - the best sunscreen for your face is now as light and comfortable as your best moisturisers, while doing some essential shielding. We narrowed down our favourite picks and spoke to several dermatologists to get their expert take on each buy. 

What to consider when looking for the best sunscreen for your face

• Star rating: Our in-house star-rating system is based on peer reviews. They’ve tried and tested the sunscreens and awarded stars based on factors such as product quality, ease of use, customer feedback, awards and value for money. Products that have received a 5 star status are rare and considered exceptional, going above and beyond our reviewer’s expectations.
• The type of sunscreen and the level of protection it offered: With sunscreen being such an important product, we wanted to make sure that every buy on this list offered high levels of protection. We considered both chemical and physical formulas (with an explainer on both below), and opted for a minimum of factor 30 protection. Dr. Veraitch doesn't advise going below 30, she explains "I recommend an SPF50 daily, as it provides the most effective protection. However, for those prone to skin congestion and acne I am more flexible in my advice and advise that lower SPF can be advisable, down to SPF30."
• The wearability of the formula: There's no use buying the best sunscreen for your face if you're not going to actually use it. For the formula to really work it has to be one that you really want to wear - we only picked options that felt really comfortable to wear, that didn't feel greasy or sticky, and sat nicely under makeup. 
• Cruelty-free: More and more beauty brands have realised that testing on animals is not a humane or sustainable practice. We’re keen to select products from brands that follow this ethos.

The best sunscreens for your face, picked by our beauty team and dermatologists

As we've already touched upon, mineral sunscreens have previously had a bad reputation for being thick, difficult to rub in and leaving a white cast. Luckily Dr Dennis is debunking all those myths for us, having created a mineral sunscreen that’s easily absorbed and suitable for all skin tones. 

We were concerned that a high factor, mineral sunscreen would result in breakouts, but there were no spots to be found, even on typically oily areas across the T-zone. The texture is light and comfortable, and as an added benefit, it's packed with antioxidants like bearberry, sea buckthorn, lingonberry, and ferulic acid. And these work behind the scenes to banish the pesky free radicals which can speed up the ageing process.

Dermatologist verdict: "It's a physical sunscreen suitable for all skin types but especially dry skin," Dr Anton Alexandroff, a Doctify-reviewed dermatologist explains. "It's also non-comedogenic which means it's safe for acne-prone skin too. Plus it is made by an experienced dermatologist and is very hydrating."

SPF and oily skin don’t tend to play nicely together. And if you’re anything like me, you’re more likely to bring home a face full of tiny white heads from your holiday than a glowing tan. Enter Heliocare. The oil-free formula glides onto skin before becoming quickly dry to the touch. Once on, we found it sits nicely under make-up, and doesn’t contribute to the dreaded 3pm shine. It didn't block our pores either, leaving skin clear and fresh. The colour is ever-so-slightly tinted, which makes it a great all-rounder for all skin tones.

Dermatologist verdict: "I’m a huge fan of Heliocare 360 as the range genuinely offers something for everyone and their preference e.g. spray, cream, gel etc," says consultant dermatologist Dr Emma Wedgeworth. "It features Fernblock, a unique ingredient which harnesses natural plant power to defend skin cells from damage caused by the sun and protecting our skin cell DNA, alongside a Bioshield system that protects skin against visible light - like our own melanin, but much more powerful."

For high-quality facial sun cream, La Roche Posay's SPF 50+ Anthelios Ultra Comfort Cream is one of the best out there. Although it comes with a higher price tag, it's worth investing in if you really struggle with dry skin due to it's added hydrating powers. The ingredients create a lightweight cream which provides a spectrum of defence against harmful UVA, UVB and infrared radiation, while also moisturising the skin and helping to create a healthy complexion.

Dermatologist verdict: This is a great sunscreen that provides protection against infrared, UVA, UVB radiation which helps protect against skin cancers as well as photoaging," Dr Suchitra Chinthapalli tells us, consultant dermatologist at The Harley Street Dermatology Clinic. "It's hydrating and applies easily. It's particularly useful if you have dry skin."

We love Piz Buin's facial sun cream as it was designed alongside dermatologists, with sensitive skin in mind. This means that it's really effective in preventing prickly sensations and blotchiness caused by UV rays on the skin. It offers sun protection along with the brand's unique anti-irritant shield, helping our skin to become more resistant to the sun in the long term. Plus it's both water and sweat resistant, making it a good contender for hotter days. We loved using this on a particularly sweltering summer day, skin felt comfortable and soothed.

Dermatologist verdict: "This is designed for sunsensitive skin, and also sensitive and itchy skin making it a good pick overall," says dermatologist Dr Anton Alexandroff. "Water and sweat resistant, it contains powerful antioxidants to protect against UVB and UVA damage."

5. Ultrasun UV Face & Scalp Mist SPF50

Be honest, do you really take your sun cream all the way to your hairline, or does the prospect of greasy hair cause you to stop halfway up your forehead? If that sounds like you, you’re not alone. In fact, according to Ultrasun MD Abi Cleeve, this is one of the sites where skin cancer is becoming most prevalent. To help you ensure you’re getting the best possible protection, without compromising on your roots, this lightweight spray has been designed as an extra step. Abi adds that it's a mix of between mineral and chemical sunscreen to reap the most rewards: "At Ultrasun we look for an optimal balance between the two, so we look at smaller particles of titanium and zinc that will physically stop the sun’s rays, combined with chemical absorbers in a quantity and a level that the skin can cope with."

We've been keeping one in our bag, and one on our desks, for fuss-free top-ups whenever and wherever necessary. It’s completely transparent, so won’t leave you with tell-tale white dots on your skin.

Dermatologist verdict: "This contains InfraGuard which combines organic sunflower shoots and powerful antioxidants from the tara tree," Dr Anton tells us. "This means it protects from both infrared and visible blue light. It's a quick drying transparent spray which can be worn over or under cosmetics." 

Released in 2021, this is Eucerin’s first medical SPF, and boy does it pack a punch. Instead of simply protecting skin against UVA and UVB damage, it has been specifically formulated to prevent non-melanoma skin cancers including actinic keratosis too. Actinic Keratosis appears on the skin as dry, scaly spots and is often clay-like in colour. It can become malignant if left untreated. Remember to check your skin regularly for any changes, and visit your GP if you’re concerned. As for the formula, we found it to be impressively lightweight for an SPF 100. The yellowish colour absorbs quickly with no white cast.

Dermatologist Verdict: "The highly effective combination of high UVA/UVB protection and broad-spectrum filters offers our consumers maximum sun protection," explains Dr. Gitta Neufang, Chief Innovation and Medical Officer at Beiersdorf. "As intensive protection is important in particular for skin, which is already damaged, we also tested its skin tolerance on patients with skin which is sensitive to the sun and with actinic keratosis."

If you’re on a budget, Garnier Ambre Solaire Anti-Dryness Super UV is a real bargain. It’s suitable for all skin types but really earns its keep when used on skin that’s sensitive, dry, or easily irked. There’s no added fragrance and it won’t sting if some does end up near your eyes.  As for the texture, we found it was slippery, but not greasy, so you don’t need a huge amount to get a decent layer of coverage. The addition of glycerin helps skin to hold onto moisture, even in warm, drying conditions.

Dermatologist verdict: "It's an affordable synthetic sun cream that's great for dry skin as it hydrates skin and makes skin smooth," dermatologist Dr Anton Alexandroff summarises.

Nivea's specialist face sun cream is another great option. It's specially formulated to create a long-lasting, mattifying effect, meaning that you can wear it under makeup and avoid the classic greasy shine that many sun creams create. It's lightweight and immediately absorbs excess oils from the surface of your skin, meaning that it's one of the best sunscreens for your face if prone to acne. Our blemish-prone tester loved the texture of this, and the grease-free finish.

Dermatologist verdict: "I tend to use ‘Nivea for Kids’ but will be giving this a try," says Dr Adam Friedmann, a consultant dermatologist at Stratum Clinics. "My criteria for use is that it is a high SPF, so 30 or above, it has a high UVA star rating, it goes on easy with no ghosting/whiteness, it lasts well in water and doesn’t sting the eyes too much. This ticks all those boxes"

We love a product that does just as it says on the bottle, and this SPF really does deliver a silk-like consistency. It’s lovely and light and feels cool on the skin, which is a welcome treat on warm days. The finish is quite luminous, which might not suit all tastes, but definitely gave our lackluster skin a pick-me-up. Use the built-in pipette to easily dispense a few drops onto the back of your hand before liberally massaging in. It pays to use extra on your hands too, as these can be one of the first places to show signs of ageing.

Dermatologist verdict: Dr Anton Alexandroff likes the fact that this "contains plant stem cells and antioxidants" which boost skin health and growth. He adds: "This has BlueScreen Digital De-Stress technology to protect against high energy visible blue light plus infrared light as well as UVB and UVA." Aka the more pollutant protection the better.

We have tried a lot of sunscreens over the years, but none deliver quite like Murad. The Invisiblur Perfecting Shield is a real favourite of the Goodto team, mainly as it doesn’t feel at all like sunscreen. It has a luxurious, velvety texture and creates such a smooth canvas that it doubles as a primer as well. We like wearing it on no-make-up days too to take the edge off of large pores and other imperfections. If that’s not enough to sway you, the skincare benefits might. Mushroom peptides and cucumber extracts work behind the scenes to restore firmness and moisture.

Dermatologist verdict: Though "expensive" Dr Anton recommends this for "all skin but especially combination because it primes skin and minimises pores and fine lines. It's ideal before make up."

Can’t face the idea of adding another step to your beauty regime? This two-in-one make-up setting spray and SPF might just be the best facial sunscreen for you. It’s pricey, but we think it's a treat to use, flexing an expensive-feeling mist action that evenly dispenses product across your face and neck. It looks good too, with light-diffusing silicones leaving skin looking like it’s been graced by a soft-focus filter. It is quite mattifying, which works well for oily and combination skin, but may give too flat a finish if your complexion is naturally dry.

Dermatologist verdict: "It's a mineral sunscreen and this makes it a good fit for those with sensitive skin. I also like that it is water resistant for up to 80 minutes," says dermatologist Dr. Anton.

The brand that brought us their game-changing, spot-reducing stickers are at it again, this time formulating a gentle sunscreen especially for those with sensitive or breakout-prone complexions. Going one step further than being simply non-comedogenic (meaning it won’t block your pores) it also contains tea tree oil, a natural anti-inflammatory with anti-bacterial properties. The formula contains a mix of both mineral and chemical filters, creating a physical barrier to UV whilst absorbing additional and turning it into heat instead. Word of warning - it appears shockingly white when it comes out of the pipette, but quickly dials down to a transparent finish as you rub it in. It’s lightweight, and doesn’t make your face feel hot or caked in product. The finish is smooth and silky with a subtle glow. The ideal base for make-up.

Dermatologist verdict: Dr Anton Alexandroff likes this mineral-chemical hybrid for it's added spot fighting powers. "It helps to treat spots, hydrates skin, lightens dark spots and protects against new dark spots." Win win.

Hyaluronic acid is a hero hydrator that can hold up to 1000 times its own weight in water. It occurs naturally in the skin, but stocks deplete as we age, so doubling down with skincare will only make your complexion feel plumper. This SPF is full of the good stuff, and for that reason left our skin feeling fresh and glowy. A little goes a long way, so apply slowly, you can always add more. Because of the added skincare benefits, there’s no need to layer over a moisturiser or serum unless you think your skin needs it.

Dermatologist verdict: "I recommend any of the sunscreens listed by La Roche Posay," says Dr Abha Gulati, a consultant dermatologist at Stratum Clinics. "They are effective and are developed to suit patients with and without skin sensitivities or problems. For example, the range includes products for acne-prone skin, atopic dermatitis, pigmentation and some contain anti-aging compounds."

We love it when products can multitask by having a couple of benefits in one, and this is the best sunscreen for your face that certainly delivers across multiple fields. The secret is the addition of hardworking Vitamin C, which will help brighten any pigmentation or dullness, and also protect skin from damage caused by pollution. As for the formula itself, it's an incredibly lightweight texture that sinks in quickly and leaves no white cast. 

Dermatologist verdict: Harley Street consultant dermatologist Dr Ophelia Veraitch, rates this formula. "This contains hyaluronic acid and glycerin which are great for maintaining the skin barrier," she says. "It also contains vitamin C which is an excellent antioxidant, and particularly good to prevent and treat hyperpigmentation. I like that it has a very thin formulation, so it's not so congesting for breakout or acne prone skin."

You don't have to spend a lot of money to get the best sunscreen for your face, and this buy proves it. The beauty team are big fans of this light, comfortable formula that feels more like a moisturiser than a sunscreen. It also has the benefit of being fragrance-free and waterproof, meaning it's suitable for sensitive skin and will last through hot summer days. 

Dermatologist verdict: Dr. Veraitch's verdict is, "It is water resistant so good for summer holidays. For water-resistant SPF I advise applying it in the hotel room before going outside to the pool, as this allows time for the SPF to dry onto the skin. I like that this formulation is fragrance-free too. I will however note that it contains octocrylene which isn't reef safe, so I wouldn't advise wearing it when in the sea."

How we tested the best sunscreen for your face

For the purpose of finding the best sunscreen for your face, we did a lot of testing. We wanted to try options at all price points, so tried products from budget brands all the way through to the high-end, luxury picks. We tested each buy for a minimum of two days to give them a really rigorous testing, and to fully test out how they each felt on skin. 

We've looked at the ingredient list, checked the prices and SPF levels, then considered our thoughts on the application and how well it absorbs. This is in addition to considering other skin factors too, like products being non-comedogenic (won't block pores), anti-aging, and moisture-adding. 

For our final test step, we consulted the experts - a team of trusted dermatologists - who looked at all the science and signed off on the products' pros and cons. The list you see is a rigorously compiled list that takes all of these into account, ranked in star order.

How to choose the best sunscreen for your face

The best sunscreen for your face is dependent on your skin tones, as people with different colourings have differing needs and requirements. “The Fitzpatrick scale classifies skin colour and its ability to tan into six skin types ranging from type 1 skin (fair skinned, blonde/red headed) to type 6 skin (black African/Caribbean skin),” says Dr Adam Fridmann, Consultant Dermatologist at The Harley Street Dermatology Clinic.

“Those at the lower end with paler skin will only ever burn, or tan minimally, however, those people with darker skin at the mid or higher end of the scale have a natural ability to produce melanin to protect the skin and tan easily. SPF 15 is fine for those with olive or darker skin types and SPF 30 for most white, Caucasian skin. Very fair pale skin could benefit from increasing the SPF to 50."

Unfortunately, not all sunscreen manufacturers have cottoned on to the importance of suitable shades for all skin tones. For that reason, if you’re at the higher end of the Fitzpatrick scale, you may find that some sunscreens for face leave you with a white cast. Formulas that are lightweight, or describe themselves as “invisible” or “suitable for all skin tones” are the best options here.

We spoke to the following skincare experts:

Choosing a new scent for your dad or partner is no easy task, but our guide to the best aftershaves for dads is here to help. If he needs a new fragrance, we've got just the thing. Noses at the ready!

Selecting one of the best aftershaves for dads is a highly subjective endeavour, much like choosing the best perfume or the top long-lasting perfume. What works for one person may not suit another, and a scent that smells wonderful on one person might not be as appealing on someone else. That’s why we’ve curated a diverse collection of fragrances to ensure you find something both you and he will love. From woody and citrusy aromas to earthy notes and fresh fragrances, there's something in this guide as unique as the loved one you're shopping for.

Our selection includes tried-and-true favourites from renowned brands like Hugo Boss and Jean Paul Gaultier, as well as new and affordable options like Marks & Spencer's Smoked Oud Eau De Toilette, available for just £10 if you act quickly!

Looking for more Father's Day inspiration? Check out our recommendations for the best Father's Day gifts that dads will adore. 

Best aftershaves for dads 2024

Looking for more guidance on the perfect gifts for your dad or partner? We've curated the best best Father's Day gift ideas for 2024 that dads will truly love, along with a special selection of the best gifts for new dads.

If there's one thing a busy mum loves, it's a beauty treat that can take you from looking stressed out and still sleepy to school-run-ready in minutes, am I right?

You don't have to be a hardcore perfume lover or beauty buff to know that LookFantastic is where it's at when it comes to beauty subscription boxes that deliver plenty of bang for your buck and we've got good news - the Summer Heroes Edit from LookFantastic is packed with exactly those products and it's launching soon.

Whether you're into skincare tips for tired mums and want to try out some new beauty products without forking out for full-sized versions, or just want to keep your beauty kit and skincare routine up-to-date, a LookFantastic subscription box is a brilliant way to do it.  Packed with popular beauty products worth at least £50, a monthly LookFantastic subscription box costs £15 when you buy a single box. Sign up for 12 months, and you'll pay just £13 per box. But every now and then, alongside each month's official The Box offering, you'll also get the option to sign up for one-off 'Edits' like the LookFantastic Summer Heroes Edit, which are carefully curated and packed with seasonal beauty extras.

The limited-edition LookFantastic Summer Heroes Edit is an 11-piece beauty collection worth more than £130 including four full-size products and seven deluxe-size products. From lightweight SPF to streak-free fake tan, it includes a selection of hero products handpicked to help you elevate your beauty routine and achieve radiant summer skin, whether you're jetting off to sunnier climes or holidaying at home this summer.

The LookFantastic Summer Heroes Edit goes on general sale on June 3rd and retails at just £45 but here's the best bit - subscribers to The Box will also get £10 off. 

What's in the LookFantastic Summer Heroes Edit?

Want a sneak peek at what you'll get in the Summer Heroes Edit?

• Gatineau Golden Glow Gradual Tan (Deluxe Size, worth £22)
• Isle of Paradise Medium Self-Tanning Oil Mist (Full-Size, worth £21)
• ICONIC London Sheer Blush (Deluxe Size, worth £21)
• Ultrasun Eye Protection SPF30 (Full-Size, worth £20)
• Sol de Janeiro Rio Radiance Fragrance Mist (Deluxe Size, worth £12)
• Philip Kingsley Swimcap Chlorine Hair Protection Water Resistant Mask (Deluxe Size, worth £10)
• Aveeno Skin Renewal Gentle Body Scrub (Full Size, worth £9.99)
• Bondi Sands SPF50+ Fragrance Free Face Sunscreen Lotion (Full-Size, worth £7.99)
• Urban Decay All Nighter Waterproof Setting Spray (Deluxe Size, worth £3)
• NARS Laguna Bronzing Powder (Deluxe Size, worth £3)
• Youth To The People Superfood Cleanser (Deluxe Size, worth £2)
• Order yours now at LookFantastic

Other LookFantastic beauty boxes we REALLY want

For more beauty and fragrance inspo, check out our pick of the best perfume dupes and the best long-lasting perfumes, or take a peek at 7 baby skincare products mums love to use on themselves and our exclusive skincare tips for tired mums.

One of the lesser-known maternity side effects is dry lips in pregnancy. It’s surprisingly common, with lots of people noticing their skin feeling drier, and lips looking chapped.

Often the treatment for dry lips in pregnancy isn't as simple as just using a bit of lip balm, as you can with hands with your best hand creams. The good news is that just like other side effects like hair changes in pregnancy, the dryness is usually temporary. That doesn't mean it's any less irritating though, so we spoke to the experts to find the best solutions, as well as explanations for the causes.

“During pregnancy, it is not uncommon to get dehydrated,” explains consultant dermatologist Dr Justine Hextall. “With the increasing circulation, it is important to maintain optional fluid balance to support it. If the pregnancy is complicated with morning sickness or gestational diabetes then dehydration is even more common. Skin can be more sensitive and dermatitis and lip dryness and irritation can develop."

Causes of dry lips in pregnancy

1. Hormonal changes

As you probably already know, the surge in hormones during pregnancy has a lot of repercussions, and it's also a factor in dry lips during pregnancy. According to Ear Nose and Throat surgeon and Medical Director of the Atelier clinic, Dr Aggie Zatonska, it's a common cause of dry lips in pregnancy.

"Fluctuations in hormone levels during pregnancy can lead to dehydration and dryness, which includes dry lips," she says.

2. Dehydration

As Dr Hextall touched on earlier, dehydration is a very common reason for dry lips during pregnancy.

Dr Zatonska agrees, explaining that, "Pregnant women often require more water to support the increased blood volume and amniotic fluid, and dehydration can manifest as dry lips."

3. Nutritional deficiencies

"Inadequate intake of essential nutrients like vitamins A, C, and E, as well as insufficient hydration, can contribute to dry lips during pregnancy," explains Dr Zatonska.

She continues, "Omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids are crucial for maintaining skin health, including moisture retention and barrier function. Inadequate intake of these essential fatty acids can lead to dry, flaky skin. Zinc deficiency can also result in dry, flaky skin and delayed wound healing."

4. The enviroment

While a lot of internal changes can cause dry lips in pregnancy, some external factors can cause issues too. Dr Hextall explains, "If the weather is cold, the air is often dry and this alongside cold winds can leave lips dry and chapped."

Dr Zatonska agrees. "Extreme weather conditions, such as cold winds or hot, dry temperatures, can also contribute to lip dryness," she says. "Exposure to harsh weather elements without proper protection can exacerbate the problem. Plus, environmental pollutants, such as dust, smoke, and chemicals, can irritate the skin and contribute to dryness. Pregnant women may be more susceptible to the effects of pollution due to hormonal changes and increased sensitivity during pregnancy."

Remedies for dry lips in pregnancy

1. Hydrate, hydrate, hydrate

If dehydration can cause dry lips in pregnancy, an easy fix is to up your water intake. "Drinking plenty of water throughout the day helps maintain moisture levels in the body, including the lips," advises Dr Zatonska.

Dr Hextall recommends that "if travelling around carry a bottle of water". She adds, "Avoid too many caffeinated drinks as these can cause dehydration and are not recommended in excess in pregnancy."

2. Consider your diet

If your body is deficient in those vital vitamins, up your intake to keep your skin balanced. According to Dr Hextall, this will also benefit your baby. "Making sure that diet is rich in Omega-3 can help to support natural fats and oils in our skin and are also important for neuro-development in the foetus. Two servings of low-mercury fish such as wild salmon and sardines, walnuts and tofu amongst others are recommended. Pregnancy-safe Omega-3 supplements may also be recommended."

3. Try a humidifier

If your skin is particularly parched, using a humidifier can keep your skin supple and hydrated, especially if you use one overnight. Dr Zatonska explains that "Using a humidifier in the bedroom can add moisture to the air, preventing further drying of the lips during sleep."

4. Moisturise consistently

If you've been reaching for your lip balm more during this time, you'll be pleased to know you're doing the right thing to combat dry lips in pregnancy. "Apply a moisturising lip balm or ointment regularly throughout the day to keep your lips hydrated and prevent further dryness," advises Dr Zatonska. "Look for products containing ingredients like shea butter, coconut oil, or hyaluronic acid. Using a moisturizing lip balm with a sun protection factor (SPF) helps protect the lips from further drying and damage caused by sun exposure."

Dr Hextall explains that using the right lip formula is key for treating dry lips in pregnancy. "Carry a suitable lip balm that can protect the skin from getting dry and chapped. Look for a combination of humectants such as glycerin, hyaluronic acid and or panthenol that help to draw moisture to the lips. You then want ingredients that can help to seal this moisture so look for rich emollient ingredients such as shea butter, ceramides and vitamin E."

If your lips are still chapped even with consistent balm application, Dr Hextall warns that you could be using an unsuitable formula. "Look carefully at ingredients as sometimes we can develop a sensitivity and even an allergy to lip balm ingredients, signs that suggest this include, the more you apply the more you need to assuage the subsequent skin dryness and irritation. It may be an allergy to a perfume, colour or preservative in the balm. If you suspect this stop and try a different product and see if things settle."

Remedies and ingredients to avoid when treating dry lips in pregnancy

You probably know that it's important to avoid certain foods and skincare ingredients during pregnancy, and that applies to your lip care too. Dr Zatonska explains, "When choosing lip care products during pregnancy, it's essential to avoid certain ingredients that may be potentially harmful. These include retinoids (such as retinol), salicylic acid, and certain essential oils like peppermint and eucalyptus. Instead, opt for products with safe and soothing ingredients like shea butter, cocoa butter, beeswax, and natural oils."

Looking for more pregnancy beauty advice? We've asked the experts about six common hair changes in pregnancy. For busy mums, check out our round-ups of the best 5-minute face masks and the best eye creams for dark circles.

The best mood-boosting perfumes come to the rescue when we're in need of a pick-me-up during busy or stressful moments.

If you're a fan of some of the best perfumes of all time, then you'll appreciate the power that scent has on our mind, body and soul. Your sense of smell is closely linked to the part of the brain responsible for emotion and memory, so it's no wonder that fragrance notes can be used as a tool to influence our feelings, as certain scents are renowned for their ability to change our mindsets, moods and totally transport us. "Some of our favourite memories are summer holidays, so scents which nod to these joyful times can bring a dose of positivity," Emilie Bouge, perfumery expert for Miller Harris explains.

We've rounded up 12 of the best mood-boosting perfumes, which also double up as some of the best long-lasting perfumes and the best perfume dupes on the market. All of these mood-altering scents promise to uplift, calm, energise and relax your senses - perfect for busy parents looking for a temporary escape from hectic family life.

12 best mood-boosting perfumes

Citrus scents to feel uplifted and positive

"Citrus scents such as lemon and orange are often associated with feelings of positivity and freshness, so can be a great way to bring some energy and zest to your day when incorporated into your morning routine," explains perfumery expert Emilie Bouge.

Earthy notes will energise you

"When it comes to looking for fragrances that will energize, look for earthy scents that work to stimulate the mind," suggests Bouge. "Peppermint and Rosemary can work well, helping to bring a boost and keep you feeling alert. Ginger is another energising scent that has a warming, spicy aroma and can help to improve circulation and boost energy levels."

Florals make you feel grounded and calm

Florals are a popular choice in fragrance for many reasons. The beautiful scents of jasmine, rose, honeysuckle and lily are all favourite floral scents often found in perfumes and they each create a sense of calm, as well as being such a versatile and wearable option.

Herbal notes help to relax busy minds

Just like lighting your favourite relaxing candle to wind down after a long day, you can use your perfume as a tool to calm your senses or destress the mind, body and soul. Herbal notes work especially well at this, says Bouge. "For winding down, lavender is a common choice with relaxing and anxiety-reducing properties. Sandalwood with its warm, comforting woody aroma is another option, often used in aromatherapy to reduce stress," she reveals.

How we tested the best mood-boosting perfumes

Each one of these mood-boosting perfumes has been tested by a member of the GoodtoKnow beauty team. All the fragrances in the round-up contain ingredients which are known to help boost your mood or help relax, uplift, energise and calm your senses. We wanted to make sure we had a good balance of brands, budgets and scent options to ensure there's something for everyone in this roundup.

How fragrances affect your mood

"We can use fragrances to help influence our moods, and specific scents are renowned for their mood-boosting properties. All kinds of feelings can be boosted by your brain attaching scent to memory," Bouge explains.

She continues, "There is a complex link between fragrance and our past, and it is because our brains can’t accurately describe smells. To compensate, we have adapted by storing our scent bank within our memories. Our brains are instantly triggered into finding associated memories to help us identify what we are smelling. And this is why there is so much emotion in the fragrance industry. You can catch a sniff of something, often by chance and instantly the mind is transported to a place, a person, a time."

Pregnancy brings with it many physical adjustments. Bigger boobs, glowing skin and, of course, a few surprising hair changes are some of the things to expect when you’re expecting.

For some, locks will become full, lustrous and impossibly shiny, as if you’ve stepped straight out of a Herbal Essences commercial. For others, it’s a tale of frizz, excessive shedding and greasy roots. Whether you’re searching for remedies to treat hair loss, wondering how to get rid of greasy hair or want to get rid of frizz, our experts discuss the whys and the wherefores of hair changes in pregnancy, with solutions to help reinstate your swish.

“During pregnancy, hormonal changes play a significant role in various bodily functions, including hair growth and appearance,” explains Dr. Chandni Rajani, GP and Aesthetic Doctor. “During pregnancy, oestrogen increases significantly, which can lead to changes in hair texture and growth patterns.”

While we experience a surge in certain hormones, we can also suffer from a lack of nutrients as the goodness gets redirected to baby. “Our hair is the last part of us to receive nutrients and the first to be withheld from,” explains Anabel Kingsley, Brand President and Consultant Trichologist at Philip Kingsley. “Hair cells are also the second fastest dividing cells our body makes, meaning its energy requirements are very high. As such, hair is incredibly sensitive to any deficiency.”

Hair changes in pregnancy

1. Thicker hair

One of the commonly known hair changes in pregnancy is your hair will look thicker and fuller. Really, it's one of the best bits about being pregnant. “When pregnant, oestrogen levels rise, which extends the anagen (growth phase) of the hair growth cycle,” explains Anabel Kingsley. “Oestrogen is very hair-supportive so we hold on to more hairs than usual and shed much less – perhaps losing only 10-40 strands a day, with the norm being 80-100.” According to Anabel, increased progesterone during pregnancy can also play a part in preventing hair loss leading to thicker-looking, advert-worthy hair.

Expert tip: “Many women say they have the best hair of their lives in their 2nd, 3rd and 4th trimesters,” admits Anabel. Our take? Enjoy it! Prevent all that extra fullness from turning poofy with a smoothing shampoo and conditioner.

2. Thinner hair

“Many people find that their hair can become thick and lustrous during pregnancy, but not everyone has this experience,” explains trichologist, Eva Proudman. “In early pregnancy due to the shift in hormonal levels and an increase in stress to the body to support the newly growing baby you can experience hair shedding.” The condition is telogen effluvium, but according to Eva, it’s not permanent, but rather “a disruption to the hair growing and shedding cycle that will make the hair feel thinner all over, especially to the longer lengths.”

Another factor that can lead to thinner-feeling hair is morning sickness, “and the inability to eat a well-balanced diet in those first few months,” explains Eva. Iron deficiency, which often occurs during pregnancy, is one more contributing factor.

Expert tip: “If you have low iron, this can be diagnosed with a blood test,” explains Eva. “Supplements and dietary advice can manage and correct this.” Dr. Chandni Rajani stresses the importance of nutrition. “For thicker and faster-growing hair, maintaining a healthy diet rich in essential nutrients like vitamins A, C, D, and E, as well as biotin and omega-3 fatty acids can support hair health and growth.”

3. Frizzy hair

One of the lesser-known hair changes in pregnancy is a change in texture. Pregnancy hormones can alter the texture of your hair so that smooth, silky strands suddenly become nightmarishly frizzy and difficult to manage. This is likely to be exacerbated if your hair is dry, damaged or colour-treated.

Expert tip: When hair is hydrated, it’s less likely to crave moisture from the air and fuzz up so it’s worth investing in a good conditioner. Anabel’s tip? “Use products that will coat the cuticle with a hydrophobic (water-repelling) layer. This not only keeps moisture out, preventing hair from becoming frizzy, but helps to lock moisture into your strands so they remain hydrated.”

4. Greasy hair

One of the more irritating hair changes in pregnancy is greasy roots. Just when you want to put your feet up for a well-deserved rest, many mums-to-be report the need to wash their hair more often. Lank, oily hair is caused by a surge in hormones, triggering our oil glands to produce more sebum. Anabel offers a more practical explanation: “You might not be shampooing as often as you used to, which can make your hair seem greasier than usual.”

Expert tip: “Try not to leave more than 2 days in-between shampoos,” advises Anabel. “To help counteract bothersome roots, apply a hydrating serum to your scalp at night and shampoo your hair in the morning.” If your hair is particularly flat and lank, give roots a zhuzh with dry shampoo to mop up excess oil and inject a little oomph.

5. Dry hair

Some expectant women may notice that their hair has become dry, coarse, and more prone to breakage, which Dr. Rajani attributes to “hormonal fluctuations and increased blood volume.” It may also be a sign of low iron levels.

Expert tip: For dry hair that breaks at the mere sight of a brush, the answer is moisture. “To combat damage and dryness, I advise all my clients to use a weekly pre-shampoo deep-conditioning treatment and bond-building treatment,” instructs Anabel. Always use heat protection before styling to minimise breakage and book in for regular, 6-weekly trims to snip off fragile ends.

6. Change in texture

One of the more bizarre hair changes in pregnancy is a texture turnaround, where poker straight hair suddenly morphes into wild waves, or bouncy curls turn flat and lifeless. Hormonal shifts - whether that’s during pregnancy, puberty or menopause - can affect the follicle itself, altering the texture and pattern of your strands.

Expert tip: It can take a while for hair to return to its natural state (some women report a permanent change) so learn to manage your newfound texture, whatever that may be. If you miss your pre-pregnancy hair, use heated tools to style it curly or straight.

While you might want to look and feel your best, when you're a busy mum who is short on time, this often gets pushed down the list of priorities. And if you do manage to carve out precious minutes for some self-care, some skincare rituals are time-consuming and messy, making them unsustainable and quite often proving a waste of money at the same time.

So we've been on the hunt for skincare tips for tired mums that are both quick and effective, and have found this genius tried-and-tested hack that will transform not-at-all-summer-ready feet into baby soft twinkle toes. And it doesn't, we repeat DOES NOT, involve slathering your feet in gloopy creams inside rubber socks for 12 hours, or stuffing your feet into little bags of magic liquid for an hour and a half. For the latter, you not only find yourself immobile for the full 90 minutes, but you also have to wait another week or so for your feet to then go through a gross (but for some, satisfying) peeling process. Really, who has the time?

Fortunately, this hack takes seconds to do, makes no mess, and you'll be able to get on with more important things. And better still, it actually works.

Mum-friendly hack for baby soft feet

For super soft feet that doesn't involve some messy foot mask, all you need is some cotton wool and a facial toner containing a very particular type of ingredient - acid.

If you are a skincare novice, acids in your skincare might sound a little terrifying, but they aren't new and are growing in popularity, and skincare products are now much more transparent about which acids they contain as customers' knowledge base grows.

According to skincare guru Caroline Hirons in her book Skin Care: 'Acids are all about exfoliation, and are derived from professional chemical peels, but are now included in our everyday skincare routines.' She adds: 'Different strengths and different acids do different things to the skin, and you'll want to tweak which you use depending on how your skin is feeling.'

When it comes to resurfacing the skin in a gentle way, look out for lactic or glycolic acids in particular. They are designed for exfoliating your face (meaning you don't have to use abrasive scrubs that can actually damage your skin), but can also be used to effectively exfoliate your feet.

Simply soak a cotton pad with a liquid glycolic or lactic acid (I've recommended my favourites below), and then swipe over your clean, dry foot, especially where you have dry or hard skin. It dries quickly and there's no need to wash it off. I've tried this myself, and can vouch for its effectiveness. I applied the acid after I'd had a shower and just before I got into bed. Almost straight away, I could tell my feet felt smoother, but when I woke up the next morning, my skin was much softer, and any hard skin patches were gone.

I was thrilled by the results because I hate the feeling of thick heavy creams at the best of times, but the thought of slathering my feet in something like that and then putting socks over the top genuinely makes me feel a bit queasy. I have also tried those peeling foot masks, and while they are effective, they just take too long to see results.

To keep the skin soft and smooth, I use an acid about once a week to keep hard skin at bay, especially in winter. I've even managed to convert my best friend (who is a busy mum-of-two) and she couldn't believe how effective it was.

Best acids I've tried

It's worth noting that using a product with glycolic acid in it can increase your skin's sun sensitivity so make sure use sunscreen.

If you use an acid in your skincare routine, you might also want to know about the best sunscreen for your face, as well as the best sunscreen for kids and whether sun cream goes out of date.

Noella Gabriel, the co-founder of Britain’s number-one skincare brand, Elemis, has shared the secret to an easy skincare routine for tired mums - and it’s all about doing less.

Ask any sleep-deprived mum about her skincare routine and there's a good chance all she cares about is how to look less tired and ways to reduce dark circles under her eyes. Most of us haven’t found the time to cleanse, tone, and moisturise properly since before our kids were born. And as for regular facials? Forget it. When my kids were small, I often used a baby wipe to ‘cleanse’ my face and dabbed excess Sudocrem over my eye bags during nappy changes.

Nowadays, my kids spend more money on skincare than I do. And yet, as perimenopause takes a firm hold, I think it’s time I treated my face to something more than the odd squirt of E45 cream. After all, we know that many of the changes we go through as mums can take their toll on our bodies - and our skin doesn’t escape. Taking the time to follow a skincare routine, no matter how basic, can have a positive impact on your health and well-being too. Motherhood is as good a reason as any for showing our body’s largest organ a little bit more love.

Happily, GoodtoKnow was recently invited to the launch of Elemis at Galgorm, a new collaboration between the iconic British skincare brand and an uber-luxurious spa hotel tucked away on the banks of the River Maine in Northern Ireland. 

Noella Gabriel, Elemis co-founder and a trailblazer in the skincare industry for over 30 years, exclusively shared her number one skincare tip for tired, time-poor mums with GoodtoKnow. And since Noella famously believes that every product in the Elemis range 'must deliver real results', we reckon her advice is as reliable as it is relatable.

Skincare tips for mums

• Facial oil is a mum's best friend - and oils are lighter than ever 
• Cleansing matters - don't cut corners on it
• Consistency is key to taking care of your skin

Noella rates facial oil as a time-poor mum’s easiest hack for simple skincare. 'Single mum myself - I have a 25-year-old - so I know all about [being] time poor and I would honestly say to everybody here - and you can quote me - your best friend is oil,' she told GoodtoKnow.

'I am going to be controversial because everybody goes ‘Oil?’ But [facial] oils are not like they were even five years ago. Oils... have evolved. The more oils you add [to a product], it catalyses the molecule to be much lighter. It’s when you only get one oil that [a product] is heavy and sticky, like almond oil, but when you buy an oil that contains seven different variants of oil, it’s the sum of all the parts and you get a lovely light texture.’

Noella added: 'Hot compress for one minute and then get two drops of facial oil and put it on, that's the way I would go'. 

Aside from oil as a skincare staple, Noella also recommends a cleansing balm. ‘Personally, don’t cut corners on cleansing,’ she added. ‘Cleansing balm is a good friend when you’re a mum because you’ve got the balm, which changes to oil, and then [becomes] cleansing milk. Dip your fingers in a little bit of lukewarm water, and bring it up [to your face] and it changes to a milk which supports the skin’s acid mantle.'

Noella's final word on the best skincare tips for tired, time-poor mums is this: 'Do less, be consistent, and just don’t forget to do your little bit.'

Words, indeed, that could apply to motherhood in so many ways.

Elemis Pro-Collagen collection: our verdict

At the launch of Elemis x Galgorm, Elemis treated us to an incredible bag of goodies and I cannot lie; I'm utterly hooked on the products I've tried so far.

My favourite of all the treats I've tried, it turns out, is the very product that Noella recommends: Pro-Collagen Cleansing Balm. Nothing else I've ever used comes close to this for giving that squeaky-clean skin feeling that usually only follows a facial. And, unlike lots of cleaners I've tried, this also leaves my skin feeling deliciously hydrated and nourished. (The same cannot be said for a baby wipe...) No wonder cleansing balms are going viral on TikTok.

And as for the smell? It's honestly no exaggeration to say that I look forward to getting out of bed so I can slather my sleep-deprived face in a scoop of this stuff. I even found myself feeling fresh-faced and confident on the school run without a stitch of make-up after using it consistently for a week.    

For more guidance on the best beauty buys for buys mums, check out the best eye creams for dark circles and our CeraVe cleanser reviews or treat yourself to one of the best perfume dupes that smell like designer scents.

Winter is arguably the prettiest of all seasons - blanketed gardens, frost-tipped branches, piercingly blue skies - but it’s not quite so picturesque for skin, and you’ll need some solid winter skincare tips to help.

If you’re experiencing dry patches, flaky skin and a complexion as dull as dishwater, then layering rich creams, oils and masks will help keep moisture locked in. But dedicating the time to maintaining healthy, hydrated skin can be tricky when you’re busy juggling work, packed lunches, party invitations, and all the other 'mum balls' in the air. You may have a bathroom cabinet brimming with toners, boosters, facial oils and eye creams for dark circles but if you don’t even have a minute to grab lunch or go to the loo in peace, then you’re not likely to carve out the hours needed for a 10-step skincare routine. 

“Keep it simple,” advises expert facialist, Charlotte Connoley. “Morning routines need to be quick to get the kids to school and yourself to work - a quick cleanse, a hydrating serum, a moisturiser and an SPF is enough.” Trust me, I know - I barely have time to wash my hair these days but I’ve learned to streamline my regime to include non-negotiable elements, like sunscreen for your face, and choose multi-faceted products, which offer additional skincare perks. Treat this list a pick 'n mix for your face, choosing the tips that work best for you and your skin. These top tricks and product picks sit in the middle of my Venn diagram of my life as a Beauty Editor and mum-of-two, and I’m confident these winter skincare tips will work for you too. 

8 winter skincare tips for busy mums

1. Upgrade your cleanser

Cleansing is the bedrock of great skin, and arguably the most important step of any regime. Do it right, and your skin will be cleansed of impurities and better able to absorb all those lovely skincare ingredients in your serum and moisturiser. Your skin’s ability to retain moisture drops by 25 per cent in winter, and the less hydrated it is the more likely it is to appear dull and flaky. If you’re currently using micellar water or a foam cleanser, switch to a balm or cream during the colder months to put back in what winter takes out. 

I do a double cleanse with a balm filled with nourishing oils. My makeup and sunscreen slip right off, but my skin is left plump and perky.

2. Invest in a super serum

Dr Aiza Jamil, consultant dermatologist at sk:n Clinics, implores everyone to apply a serum containing antioxidants every day. ‘Antioxidants are the substances that help to protect the skin surface from oxidative damage caused by free radicals and environmental triggers like UV rays,” she explains. “Vitamin C, resveratrol, vitamin E and hyaluronic acid are a few examples. All have excellent anti-ageing properties, preventing fine lines and wrinkles, boosting collagen production and improving skin texture and elasticity.” 

3. Incorporate retinoids

Another vitamin to add to your winter wishlist is Vitamin A (AKA retinoids). Retinoid is the umbrella term for anything derived from vitamin A, with retinol being the most famous over-the-counter ingredient. There are stronger, more potent derivatives like Tretinoin and Retinoic acid, but they are only available on prescription. The one major downside to retinoids is their potential to irritate. Doesn’t sound like a brilliant match for winter skin, right? Trust us when we say the benefits far outweigh the cons. 

Retinoids are such brilliant anti-agers. You’re not going to get more bang for your buck than a quick smear of a retinol serum right before bed. Expect plumper skin and a more uniform tone with very little time and effort required. Whichever retinoid you choose, only apply in the evening, since vitamin A can make skin more reactive to the sun.

4. Use a targeted eye cream

The eyes are often the first place to show signs of tiredness and ageing. "The skin around your eyes is only 0.05mm thick and the most delicate skin on the body. It has fewer sebaceous glands and collagen and elastin fibres compared to the rest of the face,” explains leading ophthalmologist, Dr. Maryam Zamani. “This makes it more prone to losing moisture and becoming drier." 

5. Stock up on sheet masks

A 90-minute facial, once a week, should be available on prescription for new mums. The excuse to lie down, eyes closed, is reason enough to book in, but a facial also happens to be an effective way of bombarding skin with moisture, especially in winter. But for many of us, this sort of treatment can feel like an over-indulgence, too time-consuming and financially-unjustifiable. 

As a Beauty Editor, I have been lucky enough to try many facials over the years, but since having my children, they’ve taken a backseat to DIY treatments that I can do at home. A sheet mask in the bath is my go-to when my skin looks particularly sad. They trap moisture in so it has nowhere to go but into your skin.

6. Build a barrier

A healthy skin barrier keeps the good stuff sealed in and the bad stuff locked out, but seasonal extremes can damage it. Between bracing winds, bitter temperatures and central heating, our skin takes a beating during the winter months, and the constant flux in temperature can damage our protective barrier, so skin feels more irritable and prone to flushing. Ingredients like niacinamide, fatty acids and ceramides will fortify a compromised skin barrier. 

The moisture barrier can also be weakened with harsh ingredients and aggressive exfoliation. As Connoley says, "Scrubbing with a topical exfoliant can irritate the skin, so go easy on the exfoliation as you want to retain as much moisture in the skin as possible in the winter." Often, a "squeaky-clean" feeling is a distress signal for a barrier not functioning properly, so cut back on active acids and abrasive face scrubs. It's good news for your barrier, and will save you time too. Win-win!

7. Add an oil

If you choose to incorporate just one of these winter skincare tips, add a facial oil as the final step in your evening routine. Searches for facial oil for dry skin are up by 50% on Google Trends, and it's easy to understand why. By applying last, the oil seals in the moisture from your serums and creams, but also has the potential to penetrate past them to deliver moisture deep down. 

Whenever I use facial oil, I can visibly see the difference when I wake up in the morning. My skin looks softer, smoother and healthier.

8. Protect and perfect

“Using sunscreen daily is a must,” says Dr Jamil. “It protects skin from the harmful effects of UV rays, which cause skin burn, pigmentation and skin cancers. UV rays are the main accelerator of skin ageing and hence sunscreen has an anti-aging effect on skin by protecting against collagen degradation and preventing fine lines and wrinkles.” 

The best five-minute face masks will rescue dehydrated, tired, congested and unbalanced complexions without taking up a chunk of your time - they're the perfect self-care treat for busy mums.  

The parents in the room will know that there's rarely enough time in the day for self-care. And when the kids need feeding, dressing and ferrying about, taking half an hour out of the day to focus on your skincare is not going to be a priority. But that's where five-minute face masks come in. Managing to work faster and more effectively than your best night cream or even the best moisturisers for skin, five-minute face masks are the ideal solution for busy mums and those short on time. 

No matter your skin issue or type, these beauty heroes promise to restore, revitalize and rebalance your complexion in as little as a couple of minutes. They also have amazing self care and mental health benefits too, as aesthetician, skincare expert and ex-doctor Dr Sarah Jenkins explains: “Psychologically, making time for yourself, even just five minutes to relax and do self-care, is a good habit to get into.” With this in mind, here’s our round-up of the best five-minute face masks for every skin type, concern, budget and time frame. 

9 best 5-minute face masks 

How we tested the 5-minute face masks

Some of these five-minute face masks were already regular favourites in my beauty regime, while others were ones that I had heard great things about or wanted to try because they promised specific skincare benefits.

I personally tried all of the masks in this roundup, and have only included those I found to be worth recommending. I wanted to make sure I had product options for a variety of skincare concerns and skin types, in addition to a range of budgets. 

• Charcoal and clay masks are good for blemish and sebum production, as well as pore minimising.
• Exfoliating masks often include a variety of acids, such as beta and alpha hydroxy acids.
• Brightening masks may incorporate ingredients like vitamin C, licorice extract, kojic acid and alpha hydroxy acids.
• Hydrating masks contain humectants or occlusives to lock in moisture including ceramides, hyaluronic acid, glycerin and natural butters and botanical oils.

Looking for more beauty advice? Our beauty team have tested the best facial oils and rounded up the best hand creams for dry hands to survive cold months. We also reveal everything from how to look less tired to how to get rid of frizzy hair. Take a look! 

YSL Black Opium is an iconic scent that's recognisable across the world - but did you know you can smell the same for £115 less?

I've spritzed and sprayed many a designer fragrance in my time, and while I'm partial to splashing out on some of the best perfumes of all time to add to my ever-growing collection, such scents often come with a hefty price tag. And sure, Black Friday perfume deals can be a great way to save money on the most popular scents, but real fragrance fanatics know that perfume dupes are the way forward.

That's why I was thrilled to discover that M&S has a scent that's a dead ringer for YSL Black Opium. Launched in 2014, Black Opium was born out of the idea of creating a new addiction. Settling on coffee, the perfume's creator, Nathalie Lorson, has previously said the scent was inspired by the contrast between light and shade - hence the notes of both black coffee and white flowers.

The fragrance is a huge success to this day - data from Statista has shown that it was used by 926 thousand people in 2020, and it was the seventh most Googled fragrance worldwide in 2022. But at £125 for 90ml, it's certainly not a budget buy - so I tried M&S' £10 dupe, Midnight Blossom, instead.

As soon as I sprayed Midnight Blossom, I was reminded of Black Opium - the two scents are incredibly similar and both share notes of white flowers with musky undertones. But in order to conduct a proper smell test, I spritzed each fragrance on a different sheet of paper and had a good sniff. 

The main difference is that Black Opium is slightly sweeter that Midnight Blossom. The M&S fragrance is missing the vanilla notes that YSL uses - and I actually preferred Midnight Blossom for this. Personally, I'm not a huge fan of sweet perfume, and to me, Midnight Blossom smelled more sophisticated. I even roped my partner into the smell test and he agreed - while there's not much in it, the M&S fragrance is the winning scent. 

Where the two scents differ, however, is in their longevity. This is to be expected, as Black Opium is an Eau de Parfum - meaning it's a long-lasting perfume - while Midnight Blossom is an Eau de Toilette. The difference between these two scent types is their concentration - EDPs contain 10-20% perfume oil, while EDTs contain around 5-15% perfume oil, so they won't last as long.

When I wore YSL's Black Opium, there was no doubt that I could smell the scent on myself all day. I first applied it at 7am, and the scent was still lingering when I returned from the office at 5pm. If you're in search of a one-spray-wonder, I can highly recommend.

Meanwhile, I conducted the same test with M&S' Midnight Blossom, and by lunchtime I could barely detect the fragrance on myself. You'll probably need a couple of sprays of this scent to get you through the day - but luckily M&S offers a 30ml version of Midnight Blossom for just £6, perfect for popping in your handbag!

At over £100 cheaper, I wasn't expecting the M&S scent to last anywhere near as long as YSL's Black Opium and honestly, I was pleasantly surprised by the quality of this fragrance overall. I could hardly tell the difference between the two scents, but the subtle dissimilarities in notes meant I actually preferred Midnight Blossom to the designer counterpart. 

If you're a fan of sweeter scents, need a perfume that will last you all day and love to have a fancy bottle on your dressing table then sure, it's worth investing in YSL Black Opium. But personally, I'm buying M&S' Midnight Blossom for all my fellow perfume fanatics this Christmas.

Where to buy perfume this Christmas

• Look Fantastic: Save up to 50% on popular designer fragrances
• Sephora: Huge savings on cult favourites and classic scents
• Amazon: Save on a range of fragrances with Black Friday deals
• John Lewis: Save 20% on designer fragrances for Black Friday

Perfume offers available now

If you're getting stuck into Black Friday, you might be interested to know when Black Friday ends or be asking about Black Friday vs Cyber Monday - which one has better discounts?

Here on Goodto, we've made sale shopping easier by rounding up the best Black Friday toys on sale and revealing where to buy cheap LEGO. If it's kitchen deals you're after, these are the best air fryers for families. And if you just fancy treating yourself for a change, check out these Anthropologie Black Friday deals.

I only wore Glossier You for a week and it changed the way I think about perfume - here's why...

Whether you're looking to save money on one of the best perfumes of all time or simply grab a great deal on a popular perfume dupe, it's time to start looking for your next signature scent - and I've got the perfect option.

Glossier You is a great long-lasting perfume, but it's a little different to other popular fragrances because it's a skin scent, meaning it combines with your skin's natural scent to create a fragrance that's unique to you. Though it's been around since 2017, the cult fragrance has seen renewed interest over the last year or so, thanks to an explosion of TikToks praising the perfume.

The parents among us will know that there isn't always time to head to the shops and spritz a few fragrance samples in search of a new scent - especially if you've got the kids in tow. If that's the case for you, Glossier You might be worth checking out. One TikTok user even claimed the scent is so good that one man she was dating wrote a poem about how good his pillow smelled when she left his house. 

I've tested dozens of perfumes to try and find the perfect scent for every occasion, and after seeing such rave reviews I had to get my hands on Glossier You. I'll happily tell you right now that this scent has become a regular in my fragrance collection, but you might be surprised to hear that I wasn't immediately sold on this cult favourite. 

It's a warm and spicy fragrance, with top notes of pink pepper blended with iris and musky ambrox. It's what I like to call a 'cosy' fragrance and is perfect for the colder months, but to be honest such scents usually aren't for me. 

I'm much more of a fan of delicate, slightly fruit fragrances (Jo Malone Honeysuckle and Davana is my go-to), so when I first tried Glossier You I didn't think the scent would be for me.

But, as the name suggests, this cult scent is so much more than the ingredients on the bottle - it needs you to complete the scent. As Glossier explains, the scent is "formulated to be a personal skin-scent enhancer - primarily made up of base notes to let more of you shine through, meaning it smells a little differently on everyone." And that's even reflected in the bottle - with a small thumbprint indent on the side, it also needs you to complete it. 

I didn't test this scent on anyone else, so I can't fully comment on its difference in scent from person to person, but it definitely smells different when sprayed into the air than on my skin. Personally, I can hardly smell any florals when I wear it myself. It subtle and woodsy, and has quite a unisex scent. 

Until now, I'd always thought of applying fragrance as an attempt to smell like something else - whether that's a particular floral or fruit. But wearing Glossier You felt more as though I smelled like myself, but better. It's subtle enough that it's almost believable that it could actually just be your natural musk which, in a way, it sort of is.

While I didn't have the pleasure of being chased down the street by a stranger wanting to know what I was wearing, I loved this scent on myself so much that it's become my go-to fragrance for this winter. And if you're on the hunt for a new signature scent - or looking to get ahead on your Christmas shopping - there's no better time to snap up this fragrance. 

If you're getting ready for Black Friday 2023, you might be interested to know when Amazon Black Friday starts, or be asking about Black Friday vs Cyber Monday - which one has better discounts?

Here on Goodto, we've made sale shopping easier by rounding up the best Black Friday toys on sale and revealing where to buy cheap LEGO. If it's kitchen deals you're after, these are the best air fryers for families. 

The most wonderful time of the year is just around the corner. And the best perfume advent calendars are just the thing to help get you in the festive spirit.

Let's face it: what greater gift could you give yourself (or lovingly hand over to another) than the heavenly scents of a perfume advent calendar? Maybe you're in the market for a new long-lasting perfume, or perhaps you're looking for one of the best perfume dupes to test out. No matter what scent you're seeking, this guide to the best perfume advent calendars contains everything from classic scents and new releases to designer buys, which promise to impress the whole family this festive season.

Offering some of the best perfumes of all time, this selection is of festive delights is bursting with everything from luxury and decadent scents to light-weight everyday perfumes. There are full-sized options and travel testers included too. So no matter what your scent preference is, there's a gorgeous perfume waiting for you behind a countdown door this Christmas.

And better yet, despite their name, a handful of the best perfume advent calendars contain more than just your favourite scent. Of course, they're packed with the newest and greatest eau de perfumes. But many of these advent calendars give you the best of both worlds, with candles, diffusers and beauty additions hiding behind each door. With prices starting from £25 up to £375, there are options for all.

Best perfume advent calendars 2024

How we tested the best perfume advent calendars

We handpicked each of these perfume advent calendars in order to include a wide range of fragrance options, while catering for all budgets. We've included affordable and luxury products in the round-up, while taking value for money into consideration when investigating how much the advent calendars are worth.

All of these perfume advent calendars include a range of products in both full and travel sizes, so you can choose from a comprehensive mix of brands, sizes and products, depending on your fragrance preferences.

Every product in this round-up is one that we would personally recommend and be happy to receive this Christmas, buy for ourselves, or gift to a loved one.

Looking for more advent calendars for 2024? We've rated and reviewed the best food and drink advent calendars, the best toy advent calendars and, of course, the best chocolate advent calendars too.

I love a salon experience as much as any other busy working mum but I have a little DIY beauty secret: I love recreating that salon vibe at home even more.

It’s a habit that began during the pandemic - with salons closed, many of us improvised when it came to keeping up our usual beauty treatments. And once I discovered how easy - and affordable - it is to give yourself a salon-quality beauty treatment at home, I was hooked. 

Of course, I still love a salon visit and always will. But when life gets too busy to fit one in between birthday parties and football training at the weekends, Boots comes to my rescue with a range of beauty products that help me look and feel my best. And the best part? I don’t even have to leave the house. 

It turns out that you really can recreate the salon experience at home and Boots has everything you could possibly need. 

These are a few of my favourite DIY beauty treatments…

1. Luxurious hair care

For that just-stepped-out-of-the-salon feeling, look no further than the range of keratin shampoos available from Boots. Think gentle cleansing, all-day smoothness, and the seemingly miraculous strengthening properties of keratin. Frizz, be gone! Time was when you had to hit the salon if you wanted a pampering hair treatment but the latest formulas and sciencey magic of these shampoos mean a five-star blow dry can be yours without even getting dressed, never mind leaving the house.

• VIEW AT BOOTS

2. Magical makeup

Gone are the days of only trusting a professional makeup artist with your face - nowadays we all know how to pull off everything from clever contouring to whatever the latest makeup trend is that’s doing the rounds on TikTok. And the beautiful thing about that is how confident many of us are when it comes to experimenting with new makeup looks. I’m even brave enough to have a go at an eyebrow tint at home - and with everything from gels and pencils to powders and palettes available from Boots, there’s no excuse for doing the school run with eyebrows that are anything other than on point.

• VIEW AT BOOTS

3. Hassle-free hair removal

Hair removal is one salon beauty treatment that I hadn’t really considered attempting at home until lockdown forced me to uplevel my home beauty regime. In particular, at-home waxing strips are a game-changer. Discovering professional quality products that leave my skin silky smooth for up to four weeks means never having to stress about squeezing in a salon appointment when schedules get hectic.

• VIEW AT BOOTS

4. Flawless nails all year round

I’ve always thought of manicures and pedicures as treatments that you really must visit a salon for, especially if you want to guarantee professional results. And while that annual summer salon visit will always be my favourite pre-holiday ritual, I’ve discovered that Boots stocks all the nail care essentials you could possibly need for gorgeous nails all year round. From cuticle care to nail polish, salon-worthy nails are within easy reach.

• VIEW AT BOOTS

5. A fresh complexion

A facial is the ultimate salon treat but these days my bathroom is the only place I need to go for one. From a quick Sunday night face mask to a full monthly at-home facial including gentle cleansing and exfoliating products, Boots has everything I need for glowing skin, no matter how tired I might actually be on the inside.

So if, like me, you want to keep up your salon standards but save a few quid or even just spend less time scheduling appointments, Boots has your back. Achieving salon-quality results at home has never been easier.

• VIEW AT BOOTS

Boots Salon

Did you know that Vaseline can make your perfume last longer? According to one viral beauty hack, it's all you need to make your favourite scent linger.

Sometimes all you need is a spritz of your favourite perfume to make yourself feel refreshed and put together. But if you're someone who's often rushed off their feet all day, then chances are you're in need of one of the best long-lasting perfumes that don't need to be reapplied. There's just one problem with this - the scents that last the longest are often some of the best designer perfumes, and come with a hefty price tag.

Fortunately, we've found one super easy hack doing the rounds that promises to make your perfume last all day - and all you need is Vaseline and you favourite scent. Simply rub a small amount of Vaseline on your skin before applying your favourite scent to the same area, and your perfume will last much longer.

• Buy Vaseline Original Pure Petroleum Jelly, 50ml - £1.50 | Amazon

TikTok videos sharing the trick have amassed millions of views, and it's no surprise that it's proved a popular tip, because there's science behind it too. The reason this hack works so well is because perfume lasts longer on moisturised skin, and applying Vaseline both locks in the scent and prevents your skin from drying out.

Most of us probably have a tub of Vaseline lying around somewhere. But if you don't, this tip will still work if you use an alternative moisturiser or body oil on your skin before applying your perfume of choice. Vaseline is hailed as the best option, however, because it is unscented - meaning it won't interfere with the notes of your perfume.

How to make your perfume last longer

TikToker Emma says in her video, "This little trick will make your scent last forever." Taking out her tub of Vaseline, she goes on to explain, "I put a tiny bit [of Vaseline] just where you would normally put your perfume."

She adds after applying perfume, "I don't know what it is, but it makes your scent last so long when it's with the Vaseline."

Emma's followers were impressed with the hack, and some even offered extra tips to help make perfume last even longer. One user commented, "It works for every scent because scent holds better in oil - anything with oil will do the trick", while another said, "Tips: don’t rub in. Will ruin the notes in the perfume, keep perfumes in a dark, cool, and dry place".

Emma used Zara Wonder Rose in her video, but if you're after a perfume at a similarly low price point that promises to linger for hours, we recommend M&S' Apothecary Warmth. It's a £10 dupe of Le Labo's £160 Santal 33, with both sharing notes of cardamom. As any fragrance connoisseur knows, the unisex Le Labo scent has become a cult favourite in recent years, with celeb fans including Alexa Chung, Jodie Comer and Ryan Reynolds.

• Buy Apothecary Warmth Eau De Parfum 50ml | £10 - M&S

Looking for more beauty tips? Here's how to find your foundation shade while shopping online, according to the experts. Plus, here's why your foundation looks cakey, and how you can fix the problem.

The best long-lasting perfumes don't have to break the bank. We've rounded up 15 options that will last all day and they're all available for less than £70.

Whether you're spending the whole day in the office or running about after the kids, a long-lasting perfume can be the key to feeling put together when you're struggling to find time to freshen up. But while some of the best perfumes of all time are known for their stellar staying power, they might set you back hundreds of pounds. And, unfortunately, even the best perfume dupes are unlikely to last as long as their designer counterparts. 

But that doesn't mean that you have to splash out to smell great all day. If you know where to look, there are plenty of budget-friendly scents that will last for hours after the first application. With this in mind, we've rounded up our favourite fragrances and tested their staying powers. From floral scents to spice and musk, these are the best long-lasting perfumes that work for busy mums and women on the go - and the best part is that they all cost £70 or less. 

15 best long-lasting perfumes under £70

The quick list

The best long-lasting perfumes we recommend in 2024

Keep scrolling to read the reviews form our team...

Dolce & Gabbana are is known for the luxury fragrance collections, with scents such as Light Blue and The One among their most popular. But did you know that you can own one of their its designer fragrances for less than £70?

L'imperatrice is a bold, feminine fragrance combing watermelon, cyclamen and blondwood. With an RRP of £60 for 50ml, This scent is top of our list of the best long-lasting perfumes.

Goodto verdict: Of all the perfumes I tried, this was by far my favourite. It has the advantages of being a well-known designer brand but at a more affordable price than other Dolce & Gabbana fragrances, and most importantly it was the longest lasting. I applied it at 8am and could still smell it on myself at 5pm - despite having cooked and washed up while on my lunch break. I like the scent too, it's not too sweet and it's not overpowering when first applied, despite having stellar staying power.

Sneaking onto our list at just a little over £70, Floral Street's best-selling Wonderland Peony fragrance is just the thing to put a 'spring' in your step as the weather (finally) gets warmer, because nothing says spring like the arrival of peonies.

A gorgeous blend of Peony Accord, Blackcurrant, Pink Pepper, Sicilian Lemon and Candyfloss, Wonderland Peony is a sweet but dreamy and delicate fragrance that lasts all day. 

Goodto verdict: 'Wow, new favourite fragrance unlocked,' says our Consumer Editor, Heidi Scrimgeour. 'The scent is divine and smells exactly like peonies plus I love that Floral Street uses eco-friendly sustainably sourced raw ingredients and world-first 'pulp' packaging that's made from upcycled coffee cups.'

Another designer scent that's surprisingly affordable if you opt for a smaller bottle, Caroline Herrera's Good Girl cost £60 for 30ml. Sure, it might not make economic sense to make this your new go-to fragrance, but if you fancy treating yourself to a new scent, this a great option that promises to last all day. 

Packed full of powerful fragrance, this scent combines top notes of almond with heart notes of Sandalwood, Tuberose, Iris, Jasmine to create an oriental scent. The bottle will look impressive on your dressing table too!

Goodto verdict: This is my ‘signature’ perfume and I fell in love with it after my husband bought it as a gift - my little girl chose it because the bottle is shaped like a high heel and it does look very cool on my dressing table. I’m not a fan of overly floral perfumes, but this is a deliciously complex scent with top notes of almond, bergamot, coffee and lemon, and base notes that include cacao, cashmere wood, cinnamon, praline, tonka bean and vanilla. Yum. It’s quite a luxurious scent - I feel a bit spoiled if I use it for daytime - but it’s wearable every day. 

If you're a fan of clean fragrances - think fresh cotton sheets that have just come out of the dryer - then Lazy Sunday Morning is the perfume for you. The clue is in the name with this one, which is designed to emulate the feeling of waking up in fresh sheets on a sunny Sunday morning. 

Fragrance fanatics might have already heard of Replica by the Fireplace, which is popular on TikTok. And while Lazy Sunday Morning couldn't be more different when it comes to scent, they both have stellar staying power. 

Goodto verdict: This perfume is a unique and very versatile scent, great for daytime wear. It's very subtle, so while you're not going to be leaving clouds of fragrance behind you while wafting about in this perfume, I found that it left me feeling fresh all day. 

A summer scent if ever there was one, Sunflowers combines bergamot, melon and peach with jasmine, sandalwood and moss for a fruity and floral fragrance. 

Despite the brand's high-end status, a 100ml bottle of this Elizabeth Arden scent will set you back just £32, making it one of the most affordable products on this list. Not bad for a fragrance that promises to last all day!

Goodto verdict: I have been wearing this perfume for years, after buying my first bottle duty free on an plane to Florida when I was 16 years old. And I have loved it ever since. It might not be the most trendy scent, but it feels quite timeless - and Elizabeth Arden is spot on when they describe the fragrance mood as ‘bright, light-hearted and happy’. For me, it’s the perfect mix of fruity and floral, without feeling dated - I wear it everyday in the summer and find it long-lasting yet subtle - I don’t feel like the scent enters the room before I do. One where people will tell you that you smell nice, and not that they think your perfume smells nice. 

If you're a true fragrance fan then no doubt you're already familiar with M&S' products - all of which boast stellar staying power and several of which have been hailed as dupes for designer scents.

While Warm Neroli has been praised for its similarity to Paco Rabanne's Lady Million and Midnight Blossom is said to smell just like YSL's Black Opium, Apothecary Warmth is a £10 dupe of  Le Labo's £160 santal 33, with both sharing notes of cardamom. 

Goodto verdict: This eau de parfum from Apothecary’s wellbeing fragrance collection went viral on TikTok so, yes, I bought it out of curiosity to see what all the fuss was about. Apparently, it’s a dupe of Le Labo Santal 33 which costs over £150 a bottle. It’s a very autumnal scent - think cardamom, cinnamon, cedarwood and sandalwood. As someone who likes summery scents, I wasn’t immediately a fan but it’s definitely a grower. It’s supposed to ‘evoke a warming feeling of comfort’ and the idea is that you spritz it on your pulse points ‘morning, evening or anytime you need to feel comforted’ and then inhale. For a tenner, it’s a lovely fragrance gift or an affordable treat if you’re a fan of warming, woody scents. 

One of several new eau de parfums from The Body Shop, Full Ylang Ylang blends notes of soft petals, green leaves, woody stems, juicy fruits and sweet resin to create a sweet yet spicy scent.

Made with 90% ingredients of natural origin, certified by The Vegan Society and in a bottle made from recycled glass, this long-lasting perfume is a great choice for those who are looking for eco-conscious beauty.

Goodto verdict: I'm a big fan of The Body Shop and have used their fragrances for years. They're always affordable and smell great, and this scent was my favourite of their new collection - which also includes full iris, full rose and orange blossom too. The Full Ylang Ylang is fruity and tropical but not overly sweet, and for a budget option, it lasted a surprisingly long time. Again, I applied at 8am and while it had mostly faded by 5pm, I did keep catching the odd whiff of it throughout the evening. 

French skincare brand Caudalie has cemented its reputation as a skincare giant, but it also offers several fragrances at an affordable price. And Fleur de Vigne is our top pick for a fresh and uplifting daytime scent. 

Energising notes of grapefruit, mandarin and cedar combine to evoke the scent of a vine flower and is designed to be reminiscent of a walk through the grape vines that Caudalie is so famous for. 

Goodto verdict: I love this fragrance - it’s described as fresh and energising, which is spot on - I put this on in the morning, and immediately feel a little zing in my step. I’m not really a fan of heady scents, so this fresh fragrance from Caudalie is right up my street. A fresh fragrance is meant to be lighter than eau de toilette, but while it’s a light scent, I don’t find that it fades quickly or is unnoticeable. 

I wear this as an everyday scent, but wouldn’t hesitate to wear it at night too. Plus, the glass bottle looks great in my bathroom, and it’s compact enough that I can stash it in my handbag.

A perfume staple if ever there was one, Glossier You is well-renowned for its staying power. Formulated as a skin-smell enhancer, it comes in a roller ball, solid perfume and there's a candle too. But the trusty 50ml bottle will set you back just £57. 

This long-lasting perfume includes top notes of spicy pink pepper with warm heart notes and floral iris for a fresh daytime scent. It's a cult perfume and raved about on TikTok too, so if if you love a trending product then this is our top recommendation.

Goodto verdict: I was really excited to try this cult favourite, and it didn't disappoint. It's a feminine fragrance but again not overly sweet, and it's not too overpowering when first applied. However, it didn't last quite as long as some other perfumes I tested, with the scent mostly vanished by around lunchtime. 

This designer fragrance will set you back a fair few pennies if you opt for the 50ml or 75ml bottles, but the 30ml option costs a very reasonable £65. If it's a well-known designer fragrance you're after but don't want to break the bank, this one's for you.

Described as "The feeling of falling in love, bottled", Chloé Love Story combines neroli, orange blossom and jasmine stephanotis to create this floral, daytime scent.

Goodto verdict: Rich and floral but still fresh, this is a heady scent that combines top notes of orange blossom with jasmine and cedarwood. I had a voucher to spend and I wanted to spoil myself so I splashed out on this after reading that it’s one of Molly Mae’s faves! I couldn’t believe how tiny the bottle was considering this is the most I’ve ever spent on perfume - but it’s lovely to use sparingly for special occasions. (Or whenever I want to channel my inner Love Islander or feel like feel like I fly by private jet…) 

In collaboration with the Van Gogh Museum, Floral Street created this fruity, floral fragrance inspired by van Gogh’s oil painting masterpiece, Almond Blossom. The bottle is, quite literally, a masterpiece, and we love the mouth-watering notes of pomelo, passionfruit and apple blossom too.

At £68 for 50ml, this fragrance is a reasonably priced long-lasting perfume. And for those who like to know exactly where their beauty products came from, rest assured Floral Street is vegan, cruelty-free and sustainably sourced too - so you can spritz without a guilty conscience. 

Goodto verdict: This fresh and fruity scent wins major points for coming in such a beautiful bottle, and it's a very unique fragrance too. I'm a big fan of anything with grapefruit notes, so this perfume ticks plenty of boxes for me. It didn't last as long as some of the fragrances I tried, but I still managed to get a few hours wear out of it. 

Award-winning skincare brand Liz Earle has a stellar fragrance collection, with each scent over 87% naturally derived and made with the highest quality botanicals by leading perfumers.

Its No. 20 scent is a feminine, floral fragrance that combines rose with top notes of bergamot, pink pepper and mandarin, and base notes of sandalwood and vanilla, to create a romantic and uplifting perfume.

Goodto verdict: I'm not usually a fan of really feminine fragrances, but I do like rose and despite the sweet, floral notes of this scent I'm a big fan. I applied this one at 7am and it had faded by lunchtime which is not bad going, but at £62 for a 50ml bottle this fragrance isn't as good value for money as some of the others on our list.

Liz Earle has made it onto our list of the best long-lasting perfumes not once but twice, with the fresh and citrussy No. 1 scent coming in closely behind No. 20.

Perfect for sunny days, this perfume has top notes of bergamot, mandarin and bitter orange, and base notes of cedarwood and patchouli - perfect for those who love a lighter fragrance.

Goodto verdict: Despite including some of my favourite notes like bergamot and mandarin, I actually preferred Liz Earle No. 20 to this scent. However, if you're a fan of very fresh, daytime scents then this might be the one to go for, and I found it was just as long-lasting as its floral counterpart.

Ghost's newest fragrance Deep Night is - you guessed it - a delicious evening scent that combines notes of rose, apricot and peach with musk, amber and vanilla to create a fragrance that promises to last all night long. 

Described as sensual and passionate, this is a strong, confident scent with a romantic touch, complete in a stunning crescent-shaped bottle. 

Goodto verdict: If it's a more unisex scent you're after, Ghost Deep Night might be the best choice for you. Personally, I found it was quite overpowering at first and despite this, it had faded considerably after about five hours of wear. However, as this is a distinctly evening scent, I think this is plenty long-lasting if you want to wear it on a night out. 

It's another double-whammy for French skincare brand Caudalie, who has made it onto our long-lasting perfumes list for a second time with their autumnal Thé des Vignes scent.

White musk, ginger and neroli are the main notes in this fragrance, which is priced at just £44 for a 100ml bottle. You won't have to worry about spritzing away your pennies with this scent - not only is it a bargain but it'll last for hours too. 

Goodto verdict: Although the scent wasn't my favourite, what I really liked about this Caudalie fragrance was the mist application, which meant that plenty of perfume was applied with just one spray. It lasted a reasonably long time - I applied it at 8am but it had completely faded by the end of the working day, so I did manage to get a fair few hours out of it.  

How we tested the best long-lasting perfumes

To make sure we included products for every budget, we tested perfumes from a range of price points - including those from designer brands as well as options you can find on the high street. 

Each perfume was tested by a Goodto team member, to make sure that this list is an accurate representation of the best long-lasting perfumes on the market. We rated each perfume based on its longevity, and disregarded the products without satisfactory staying power.  

To do this, we applied each product at the beginning of the day and monitored how long the scent lasted - from how it changed throughout the day to how long it lingered and at which point the fragrance had faded completely - to get a good idea of which perfumes deserved a place in our roundup.

As well as how long the products lasted, we considered their value for money and, of course, how they smelled too. Lastly, we asked fragrance experts for their recommendations, as well as what to look out for when purchasing a fragrance that promises to last all day. 

What to consider when looking for a long-lasting perfume

• Concentration: For long-lasting options, EDP (eau de parfum) and parfum are usually better choices, because they contain a higher concentration of perfume oil. While EDP usually contains 10-20% perfume oil and can last up to five hours, body mists contain as little as  1-5% perfume oil, and therefore won't last anywhere near as long.
• Notes: Base notes tend to last the longest, so look for perfumes with notes such as woods (sandalwood, cedar), vanilla, musk, spices as well as oriental notes, such as cinnamon, patchouli, and amber. Top notes evaporate most quickly, and typically feature citrus, fruit or herbal notes.
• Brand: The reputation and quality of the perfume brand can also affect the longevity of the fragrance. Brands that tend to use higher-quality ingredients will often produce longer-lasting scents.

What type of perfume lasts the longest?

Eau de Parfums (EDP) and scents that contain lots of base notes make the best long-lasting perfumes. To make sure you're getting a fragrance with great staying power, choose EDP over Eau de Toilette (EDT), and look out for sandalwood, vanilla, amber, cedarwood and musk scents - as these will last the longest.

Christina Kamester, head of fragrance at So...? Fragrance, explains that paying attention to the concentration and the notes of your fragrance is key, "The fragrance triangle is a concept that was created to explain how a fragrance works. The top notes are the most volatile, they evaporate most quickly but are the first impression of the fragrance. These notes can last for up to 20 minutes and typically feature citrus notes, or fruits, herbs and marine notes. 

"The middle or heart notes are the true personality of the fragrance - lasting up to a few hours - and the heart typically contains floral notes and spices. Meanwhile, the base notes are the lasting impression of the fragrance. These notes have the most longevity and typically feature woods, amber, leather, vanilla, gourmands, and musks.  So, if a fragrance is chock full of base type of notes it may perform longer than something that is more citrussy and delicately floral."

However, as Christina points out, we don't just choose fragrances for their strength and longevity. Some of the most popular perfumes out there are fresh, citrus scents. Ultimately, you need to try a fragrance on yourself and see how it interacts with your own skin chemistry and how long it lasts, whilst weighing it up against how much you love the scent on you. 

How to make your perfume last longer

You can make your perfume last longer by adjusting where you spray it on your body and taking note of the other skincare products you use at the time of application. You can also spritz the scent on your clothes and your hairbrush too.

Christina says you should "Always apply perfume to moisturized skin, ideally using an unscented moisturizer, and apply the fragrance to pulse points (wrists, neck, inner elbows, backs of knees). The best way, though, is layering the same fragrance, by washing with a shower gel that uses the same fragrance and applying the body cream from the range, before applying the perfume."

Other tips you could try include keeping your favourite bottle of perfume in the fridge, as heat and sunlight can compromise the delicate balance of notes. And if you're not a frequent spritzer then you'll definitely want to consider buying your perfume in smaller bottles, because fragrance can go out of date after two or three years, which will affect its longevity.

Looking for more guidance on the best beauty buys? We've tried and tested the best eye creams for dark circles, and the best red lipstick shades for every complexion. You could also check out these night creams for glowing skin, and read our CeraVe cleanser reviews.

Wondering why your makeup looks cakey? There can be lots of different factors that cause a foundation to appear heavy or mask-like, or for it to cling in particular areas. 

When you're someone who doesn't enjoy spending hours on their makeup or you're a mum running around after little ones (or maybe both), many of us don’t have the time to fuss over foundation application. You want your makeup to be light and effortless, quickly giving you the look of someone who’s just woken up from an unbroken eight hours of sleep, rather than worrying about concerns like cakiness, using a foundation shade finder or buying the wrong formula. 

“‘Cakey’ is a term used to describe what your makeup looks like when it’s sitting on top of your skin rather than blending into your skin,” says Dana Abes, events team artist at KVD Beauty. “This can happen with too much foundation is applied, too much product is applied on top of your foundation, when you’ve not prepped your skin properly or if you’re using the wrong tool.” As Dana explains, cakiness is not just about your foundation and can be impacted by your skincare (you’ll be needing your best moisturiser and best primer too), application techniques and other products you use. 

Why does my makeup look cakey?

Unfortunately, there’s no one answer to why your makeup can look cakey. The reason why your foundation could have a thick or uneven finish, or be settling into fine lines will be due to one, or maybe a combination, of the following factors: 

• You haven’t prepped your complexion with the right skincare
• You’re wearing the wrong foundation for your skin type
• You’ve applied your makeup in the wrong order
• You’ve applied too much product 
• You haven’t blended properly
• You’ve applied foundation with your fingers rather than a brush or sponge 
• You’ve chosen a foundation that’s too full coverage 

How to fix cakey makeup 

1. Start with good skincare

No matter how amazing your foundation is, if you’re not starting with good skincare you’re not going to get the results you’re hoping for. “Great skincare equals great makeup,” says Hollie Ellis, PRO Artist at Bobbi Brown. “Skincare is the most important part of your makeup routine because it not only helps the makeup to stay in place but will also help you to achieve a beautiful finish. Layering your skincare products in the right order will allow the makeup to glide onto the skin more seamlessly, and the more you look after your skin with skincare, the less makeup you will need to apply.”

A good skincare routine will start with cleansing. To wash your face properly, this essential step should ideally involve a double cleanse at night, where you wash your face once to remove makeup, SPF and daily grime, and then a second time to give your pores a thorough clear-out. In the morning, just one cleanse is enough to refresh your skin and whisk away the residue of your best night cream. As a bare minimum, the other steps in your routine will be to moisturise day and night in order to keep your skin nourished and comfortable, and to apply the best sunscreen for your face to shield it from UV rays.

If you’re serious about skincare, you might want to incorporate a couple of other products into your routine – an exfoliant and a serum. A liquid exfoliant is a product fuelled by skincare acids (not as scary as they sound) like AHAs, BHAs and PHAs, which work to break down the glue that holds old skin cells to the surface. With these unwanted cells removed, you’ll create a smoother, softer base for foundation, with no rough patches for makeup to cling to. Serums are the part of your skincare routine that contain the highest concentration of active ingredients and are your opportunity really target any pressing skincare bugbears that might impact how your makeup looks. For example, the best vitamin C serum will fade sun spots, a hyaluronic acid serum will quench dehydration and a retinol serum will soften the fine lines that foundation can settle into. 

2. Think about your skin type

There are widely considered to be four skin types – dry, oily, combination and normal. Dry skin is characterised by a lack of oil, oily skin has too much oil (it’s all sounding very Goldilocks here), combination skin has both dry and oily areas, and finally, normal skin is skin that’s pretty balanced. “It is important to understand your skin type so that you can pick products that will work best for you,” explains Dana. “If you have a drier skin type, then a foundation with a less matte finish would work best.” You could also look out for something that has oil within the formula, or other added nourishing ingredients. “Oil-free formulas can be drying, so if you have a dry skin type make sure your skin is really moisturised before applying these types of foundations,” adds Hollie. “If not, it can grip to areas of dryness and show texture.”

Alternatively, if your skin is on the oily side, then matte finishes and oil-free formulas will be right up your street. Choose foundations that focus on “controlling surface oils which can break down your foundation and contribute to it looking cakey,” says Dana. Combination skin is a bit trickier and may require a bit more experimentation to find a formula that keeps both the oilier and dryer parts of your complexion happy. Those with normal, balanced skin will have the pick of pretty much any foundation – lucky you. 

3. Apply in the right order

There’s a method to the magic of makeup, and you need to be applying your products in the right order to avoid a cakey finish. “A cakey finish can happen if you have used powders before creams, as the product can start to roll on top of the skin,” advises Hollie. “It can also happen if you layer too many products on your skin, and it can become heavy-looking.” As a general rule, we’d say liquid foundations are always preferable to powder ones, as they’re lightweight and less clingy. If you do want to top your foundation with a dusting of powder, either to keep shine at bay or help set it in place, that’s fine, but use sparingly and always make this the final step in your makeup routine. 

How you apply it matters too. “When adding setting powder, try not to sweep it across your face,” says Dara. “Pushing and rolling the product in the areas you want to set will stop the powder from looking like it’s sitting on top of the foundation.” The aim is for it to be an invisible, barely-there topper rather than something that people notice you’re wearing. 

4. Work in light layers

A good way to think about applying foundation is that it’s a bit like painting a wall. If apply too much product at once, you’re not going to get a nice even coating, and you’re more likely to end up with streaks and visible brush strokes. “Working in light layers of product will prevent your makeup from looking cakey,” says Dana. “Apply a small amount first and build in the areas that are necessary.” For example, most people find that gripes like blemishes, redness and oiliness are more concentrated in the centre of their face rather than on the edges. Keeping this in mind will allow you to focus the majority of your application here, blending softly out towards your hairline and jawbone for a convincing, seamless finish. 

You also want to avoid going too close to the eye area. “Avoid the under-eye area with your foundation application and keep this for concealer only,” advises Dana. This is because the skin is thinner here, and therefore you want to be using a product that has been formulated with that in mind. Going too close to the eye area with your foundation can also look unnatural, and, if you’re not careful, lead to stinging eyes if you accidentally sweep product into them.

5. Blend it out

Ok, so you’ve applied your foundation in a hurry and now you’re left with a cakey, congealed mass of makeup on your skin. Don’t panic, it’s easy enough to fix. “Take a pea-sized amount of moisturiser of primer, press it into the palm of your hands, or onto a sponge, and simply press into the skin in the areas where the makeup looks cakey or heavy,” advises Hollie. “I love this technique as it just lifts off the product without ruining the makeup and instantly makes skin look like skin again.”

If you’re out and about and don’t have any primer or moisturiser to hand, try water instead. “Taking a damp makeup sponge and lightly pressing over your foundation is a great way to remove excess product lying on top of your skin,” explains Dana. “Make sure you squeeze the water out of your sponge though, you want it to be damp, not wet.” If it’s too saturated with water, you run the risk of creating watermarks in your foundation or accidentally rubbing it away. 

6. Use a tool

It feels easy and intuitive to apply foundation with your fingers, but trust us, once you’ve picked up a sponge or a brush instead, you won’t want to go back. “Always apply your product with a brush or a sponge,” says Hollie. “They’re an amazing way to get even coverage, they apply and blend the formula out more seamlessly than your fingers and it’s less mess.” If you’re not convinced, try different application techniques on either side of your face. You’ll quickly see how much easier it is to avoid a cakey finish with a brush or sponge. 

7. Reconsider your foundation formula

If you’re committed to your skincare, are considered in your foundation application and always blend but your foundation still ends up looking cakey, it might be time to trade in your chosen product. When shopping for a foundation, remember that low-coverage formulas will be the lightest, and full-coverage formulas are the heaviest, as this extra pigment and density is what makes them so effective at covering blemishes. Medium coverage is a middle ground between the two, and can often be sheered out to a lower coverage or layered up to full.

“Full coverage formulas are most likely to cake as they’re thicker in texture and sometimes harder to blend on the skin,” says Hollie. Instead, “if you are worried about foundation looking cakey, opt for a light consistency instead,” adds Dana. The lighter your foundation, the less likely it is to create an unnatural finish. 

We spoke to the following professionals:

Looking for more beauty tips? we've rounded up the best eye creams that you'll want to try if you struggle with dark circles. Elsewhere, our beauty team have rated and ranked CeraVe cleansers, and we've got the ultimate guide on what retinol does for your skin.

If you often turn to TikTok for the latest beauty trends, you might be asking 'What is slugging?' as the Korean beauty tip continues to trend on social media.

For beauty nerds who struggle with dry skin, researching the best moisturisers and best night creams among other winter skincare tips will be familiar territory, but slugging is something else to try, now that the beauty trend has seen a resurgence in interest on social media. It involves slathering the skin with an additional moisturising product after your nighttime skincare routine, and the idea is that this can lock in moisture and result in a healthy, plump and hydrated-looking glow. Advocates of the trend claim that it can help get rid of acne scars and reduce the appearance of wrinkles too - you just have to spend the night looking a bit like a slug... but in a good way, like healthy and glowing.

Nick Drewe, trend expert at WeThrift explained, "The Korean skincare movement is booming and the quest for a natural healthy glow is a popular trend. It started with the notorious 'glass skin' and 'mirror skin', then came along 'slugging', which is currently taking TikTok by storm. Hailed as a miracle for spot-prone skin, 'slugging' - coined due to the 'slimy' appearance it gives your skin - involves slathering your face in Vaseline as the last step in your beauty routine."

I spoke to skincare experts to find out how exactly slugging works and I even tried it myself, so I've got all your questions around the unorthodox beauty trend answered - from how often you should be doing it to what products you can use.

New skincare trends can be fun to try, but always pay attention to your skin's reaction. If you're someone who suffers with particularly sensitive skin or a skin condition, make sure to check with your doctor or a dermatologist before trying something new.

What is slugging?

Slugging is a skincare technique that involves slathering the face with an occlusive product (a moisturiser that creates a physical barrier on top of the skin) at the end of the skincare regime. The idea is that the occlusive will seal in skincare products, while also acting as a protective barrier.

Vaseline has become the occlusive of choice online, and the practice is said to minimise water loss from the skin and maximise the positive impact of other skincare products by locking them into the skin overnight, leaving it feeling hydrated, smooth and plump the following day. 

Dr Ifeoma Ejikeme, founder and medical director of the Adonia Medical Clinic, explained, "Slugging skin, also known as simply 'slugging,' is a skincare trend that involves applying a thick occlusive barrier over the face, usually in the form of petroleum jelly or other occlusive agents like oils or balms. This creates a 'slug-like' appearance on the skin, hence the name."

As Dr Ejikeme says, petroleum jelly products such as Vaseline are commonly used by proponents of slugging, but there are many other moisturising products that can be used in their place. 

Nina Prisk, skin and aesthetics expert from Update Aesthetics, told us, "It's important to think about which products you use when slugging, as trapping certain products by your skin can increase their strength, meaning they might impact your skin differently than normal. 

"There are a range of different occlusive products available, including Vaseline, CeraVe, and SkinCeuticals. The main thing is that the product is petrolatum-based and usually includes glycerin, lanolin, and mineral oil."

Is slugging good for your skin?

Slugging is good for your skin if you struggle with dryness and dehydration, as it helps to look in moisture and prevent water loss, easing any irritation that may be felt as a result of dry skin. It's also hailed as a remedy for acne scarring. 

As registered aesthetic doctor Dr Joney De Souza explained, "Slugging can indeed be beneficial for certain skin types and concerns. It's particularly useful for those with dry, dehydrated skin, as it helps to seal in moisture and keep the skin hydrated throughout the night. However, it might not be suitable for everyone, especially if you have oily or acne-prone skin, as the heavy occlusive could potentially clog pores."

How to try slugging: A step-by-step guide

1. Cleanse your skin as normal to remove any makeup, dirt or build-up of oil on the skin, and pat dry with a clean towel. Make sure you are using a cleanser suitable for your skin type.
2. Follow with your regular skincare routine, which may include toner, serum and a thin layer of your regular moisturiser. Dr Joney De Souza points out that it is essential to avoid using skincare products which use alpha-hydroxy acids, beta-hydroxy acids and retinoids, as these can irritate the skin once sealed in for a long time.
3. Take your occlusive product of choice, making sure to cover the face and neck. Vaseline is a typical choice, but I used the Q+A Ceramide Face Cream.
4. Sleep with the occlusive layer overnight, to allow the products to penetrate the skin fully.
5. Gently cleanse the face in the morning, followed by your usual daytime skincare routine.

Top tip: You want to apply enough of the occlusive product so that there is an even layer on the skin, but not an excessive amount which feels uncomfortable. In addition, slugging can be applied to only sections of the face which require deep hydration - including the lips - you don't need to apply it to the whole face.

How I tried slugging

Full transparency here - I have pretty oily skin and I don't struggle with scarring, so my skin type probably isn't the best for testing this K beauty hack. But that's not to say that those with oily skin should avoid slugging completely, it can still be beneficial if applied infrequently - Dr De Souza recommends it as an occasional intensive treatment - and you don't need to do it on your whole face either, if you suffer with dry patches, try slugging just the affected areas. 

Yet, as someone who has carefully curated a skincare routine designed to mop up the excess oil my skin produces, I was apprehensive to try slugging. That's why I decided to use the Q+A Ceramide Face Cream as my occlusive product of choice. 

It's been sitting unused on my bathroom shelf for a while - the heavy consistency is something I tend to avoid - but given that it's formulated to protect the skin barrier, and contains moisturising glycerin and squalane while also catering to those with oily skin, it ticked all the boxes for me.

• View Q+A Ceramide Face Cream - £12 | Holland & Barrett

Another thing I like about this product is that it has a mattifying effect on the skin. So while I might not have experienced the full slug-like look of this viral beauty trend, that's not to say I didn't feel any of the effects of slugging.

After I had completed my usual evening skincare routine, and applied my chosen moisturiser, I added a layer of the Q+A Ceramide Face Cream on top. Following the experts' advice, I only went in with a thin layer, but it still felt slightly sticky and a little uncomfortable at first.

By the next morning, however, my skin felt much less sticky and the products seemed to have sunk in (or rubbed off all over my pillow?), and when I looked in the mirror I definitely had a bit of a 'glow' about me - not quite sweaty but definitely a bit shiny - and it felt like my skin was slightly more plump.

In addition, the night before I'd had a couple of small patches of flaky skin that had previously been occupied by a pimple, and these were looking improved thanks to the heavy-duty moisturiser.

My main concern ahead of trying slugging was that it would make me appear more oily or result in a breakout, but I'm pleased to say this wasn't the case. So, while I'm not sure I'll be a regular slugger, due to my skin type, it's definitely something I'll be keeping in my back pocket for winter, when I tend to get dry skin around my nose and chin. 

And for those of you who love to use a jade roller or gua sha, this beauty trend might be for you - mine slipped over my skin with ease the morning after slugging. 

• What I loved: My skin felt soft and healthy the next day, without making me extra oily or causing breakouts.
• What I didn't like: While I was slugging, my skin felt pretty sticky and that wasn't comfortable. In fact, I woke up in the night and practically had to peel my check off the pillowcase!
• Would I try it again? Yes, but not regularly. As someone with oily skin, next time I think I'll only be slugging areas outside my T-zone, and saving the beauty hack for winter, when my skin is a little drier.

Benefits of slugging

• Helps to retain moisture, keeping the skin soft and supple
• Enhances the skin's protective barrier, preventing water loss 
• Especially helpful for soothing irritated or sensitive skin 
• Helps to reduce the appearance of wrinkles
• Allows the skin to repair and heal overnight
• Gives an extra layer of protection for those with compromised skin barriers or skin conditions like eczema

Drawbacks of slugging

• May lead to clogged pores for those with oily and/or acne-prone skin
• Potential skin irritation resulting from a reaction to the ingredients in the products used
• Some people may find the occlusive layer uncomfortable or dislike the greasy texture 
• Slugging does not provide any nourishing or active ingredients; it simply seals in existing moisture 
• Doesn't address specific skincare concerns like acne or hyperpigmentation

How often should you do slugging?

How often you practise slugging depends on your skin type. Those with very dry skin might want to slug several times a week, while those who have concerns about clogged pores and breakouts might want to use it only as an occasional treatment. 

Dr Ejikeme explains, "If you have very dry or dehydrated skin, you may find it beneficial to slug four to seven nights per week. However, if you have oily or acne-prone skin, I would not advise this at all."

Meanwhile, Dr Joney De Souza tells us that those with extremely dry skin can try slugging as a nightly ritual during colder months, when dry skin is more common.

What products should you use for slugging?

The key to slugging is to use an occlusive product, which will create a waterproof coating on the skin. Common occlusive ingredients in skincare products include petrolatum, silicones, beeswax, carnauba wax, squalane, shea butter and castor oil. 

Products containing ceramides also work well, as these are compounds that occur naturally in the skin and play an essential role in both water-retention function and barrier function in the outer layer of the skin.

You should avoid using active ingredients, such as alpha-hydroxy acids (AHAs), beta hydroxy acids (BHAs), or retinoids when slugging.

Dr Joney De Souza explains, "Petroleum jelly is a classic choice, but you can also consider alternatives like ceramide-rich creams or balms. Look for products labelled as non-comedogenic or formulated for sensitive skin if you're worried about breakouts or irritation."

He adds, "Remember, every individual's skin is unique. It's essential to monitor how your skin responds to slugging and adjust your routine accordingly. If you're uncertain, a consultation with an aesthetic doctor or skincare expert  can provide tailored advice for your specific skincare needs."

Award-winning aesthetic doctor Dr Ejikeme and skincare specialist Saarah Mengrani from Landys Chemist recommend the following products for slugging:

We spoke to the following skincare experts:

Looking for more skincare tips? We've asked the experts how to use facial cleanser and reviewed seven CeraVe cleansers - so you can find the best one for you. Plus, we've rounded up the best primers for oily skin and the best eye creams for dark circles too. 

Picking the best primers for oily skin will help keep your makeup looking shine-free, matte and glowy in all the right places. 

Just like discovering the best sunscreen for your face, or the process of layering skin toners with your best moisturiser, finding out what the best primers for oily skin are is so worth your time. Picking a specific primer for oily skin is important to keep your complexion balanced, and shine-free - and they'll be a saviour during rushed school pick-ups to save you from having to blot your way through the playground. Plus, if you struggle with your makeup looking cakey, this is something a good primer can help with too.

"Silicone-based products are great for mattifying and blurring, they make the formulas smooth over the skin beautifully," reveals Brooke Simons, MUA to the likes of Laura Whitmore and Pixie Geldof. Ruby Hammer MBE and celebrity make-up artist,  agreed, "you want something that will be mattifying and long-lasting, without being drying and uncomfortable." With that in mind, we’ve rounded up the best the make-up market has to offer and spoke to two industry experts to give you unrivalled application advice too. So, if you're looking to perfect your favourite autumn makeup look, these are the primers worth buying...

What to consider when looking for the best primer for oily skin

• Star rating: Our in-house star-rating system is based on peer reviews. They’ve tried and tested the hair brushes and awarded stars based on factors such as product quality, ease of use, customer feedback, awards and value for money. Products that have received a 5-star status are rare and considered exceptional, going above and beyond our reviewer’s expectations.
• Active ingredients: Most of the best primers for oily skin will contain ingredients such as salicylic acid, hyaluronic acid and silicone. We looked out for these specific ingredients when testing the products. 
• Cruelty-free: More and more beauty brands have realised that testing on animals is not a humane or sustainable practice. We’re keen to select products from brands that follow this ethos.
• The wearability of the formula: The whole point of a primer is to prepare your skin for makeup and to ensure that it stays in place all day. We tested to make sure that the primers we tested would not only prevent shine but also keep your base from budging, melting or slipping. 

The best primers for oily skin as picked by our beauty team and celebrity MUAs

Taking anti-shine to the next level, this mattifying primer smooths the look of pores, balances shine and keeps skin looking its best all day long. Gliding onto our skin, this lightweight formula had a lovely cushiony texture that made our skin feel so soft and smooth. It’s designed to help makeup blend better, last longer and stay looking and feeling fresh all day long and this was definitely something we noticed. Our makeup looked flawless for the whole day and really fought off any shine, sweat and oil too. 

Brooke Simons also agrees that this is one of the best primers for oily skin; “I use all three of the Fenty primers religiously, but I love using this mattifying one a lot on my clients with oilier skin types and especially on men when I’m trying to keep skin from looking too shiny on camera.” 

If you want to give the illusion of smaller, airbrushed pores, then this is the primer for you. Another great contender for one of the best primers for oily skin, this silicone-free formula glides across the skin like butter to create a silky soft veil that provides the perfect base for applying makeup on. Thanks to clever ingredients like Microalgae and blurring powders, it creates a mattified appearance that works all day to absorb excess moisture and oils. This primer worked well for applying on our T-zone areas that are most prone to excess oil and managed to keep us looking shine-free all day long, without the need for touching up with powder. 

Ruby Hammer loves this primer and recommends it to her clients with oily complexions. “This primer has a nice, lightweight, oil-free formula that helps control shine and blurs the appearance of pores. It's really good for absorbing excess oil from the skin throughout the day.” 

Bridging the gap between skincare and makeup, this formula puts your skin first. The blue-based primer left our skin noticeably smooth and absorbed any surface oil immediately, plus, it left our skin incredibly soft. The lightly fragranced primer reduced the appearance of our pores, mattified oily t-zones, and created the ultimate base for applying makeup on top of. We loved that it was packed with skin-loving ingredients like White Water Lily to combat sebum production and Silca Powder to blur imperfections. 

Simons also thinks this is one of the best primers for oily skin. She says that it’s “amazing for mattifying and doesn’t leave a cast over the skin, meaning you can work your foundation into the skin well alongside it.”  

Infused with salicylic acid which works to reduce oil and face shine, this primer means business. Beauty Editor, Jess Beech is a big fan. “My skin is pretty oily on the t-zone and by the time I've applied my serum, moisturiser and SPF in the summer it's a slip-and-slide before I've even got as far as makeup.”

She continues, “The formula of this is completely clear (so would work for all skin tones) and has a fluid consistency. It tingles slightly when applied thanks to the salicylic acid and makes this a great option if you are wondering how to get rid of spots. It properly mattifies my skin, making it almost verge on looking flat, but by the time I've applied the rest of my makeup, it looks more natural. I'm normally in a committed, co-dependent relationship with my setting powder for during-the-day touch-ups but find I reach for it less to de-shine my face when I've applied this primer first.”

One of the best-known base products that’s renowned for its suitability for oily skin, this face base keeps your complexion looking balanced from AM to PM. Boasting an impressive amount of plant-derived oils, plus aloe water, cherry blossom, and hyaluronic acid, this primer packs a punch. After leaving the formula for one minute to fully absorb we noticed how mattified our skin looked. The blue agave extract worked to form an invisible layer of grip to ensure that our makeup stayed in place all day and didn’t budge no matter what the day threw at us. 

Hammer sings this primer's praises by stating that it “glides onto the skin really nicely, and creates a transparent hydrating layer. It also helps plump the skin and leave it feeling soft and supple.” Proving just why you shouldn’t be concerned about adding extra moisture to your skin just because you have an oily complexion, the ingredients in this primer work in harmony with your skin to produce a balanced complexion. 

“I absolutely adore anything from Hourglass and this primer is no exception, it really works to smooth the skin and give an airbrushed finish while controlling shine, absorbing excess oil, and blurring any skin imperfections,” Simons tells us. 

And we were excited to try this primer, having heard that it's a contender for one of the best primers for oily skin. The refreshingly lightweight gel formula glided onto our skin and instantly helped to smooth uneven skin texture, blurring the pores on our nose and chin. The formula worked hard to absorb any excess oil on our face and also left it looking shine-free and mattified for hours. Our makeup also didn’t budge, with the tacky primer keeping everything looking fresh and as if we had just applied it. We had a gorgeous glow in all the right places and our base remained looking airbrushed and well-balanced. It’s an expensive product but the travel size one is so ideal for carrying in your handbag or holidays. 

The popular putty primer has had a rebrand and now comes in a liquid form and we couldn’t have been more excited to get our hands on it. Beauty Editor Jess praises the formula and said it worked well for her oily complexion. “I really like all the elf primers and do think that you can't go wrong for the price. This feels more elevated than smooshing the original primers out of the pot, and I think that having it in the tube makes it easier to use without getting too much or too little out.” 

She continues, “I wouldn't say it's super mattifying, but it's satisfyingly sticky and grips tight to my base, helping to keep it in place for longer than it would normally survive before my oily skin evicted it from my complexion.”

This affordable option might not be the most effective for balancing out oiliness in your skin but it does a great job at keeping makeup from slipping, so it's still worth adding to your beauty portfolio and touching up with some powder in your t-zone. 

Despite being one of the most expensive primers for oily skin in this round-up, this is worth the spend if your budget allows. Hammer explains, “A little goes a long way with this primer. It has a silky-smooth texture that blurs the skin’s surface, creating the perfect base.” 

This super lightweight formula is packed with amino acids, antioxidants, and green tea extracts to really care for your skin needs. Upon application, this refreshingly silky milk left our skin looking and feeling amazing, ready for makeup application. It did a good job of minimizing pore size and balancing out any visible oil on the surface of our skin. Once makeup was applied on top it managed to keep it looking fresh and flawless for most of the day and also left our skin plump and juicy. Overall this was another product we would definitely add to our list of best primers for oily skin and would recommend to people with combination and oily skin types. 

We love a beauty bargain and they don’t get much better than this offering from The Ordinary. This cult favourite from the skincare brand is a silicone-based primer that works to hydrate, mattify and smooth the skin ahead of makeup application. The non-greasy formula features adaptive silicone particles that create a high-definition finish with long-lasting wear, effectively working to blur the look of imperfections including fine lines and enlarged pores. 

Beauty Writer, Annie Milroy says, "I loved this as soon as I applied it onto my skin. I luckily don't have dry skin so this kept it looking plump and hydrated all day long. It definitely made a difference in terms of shine levels on my forehead, nose and chin, but by the afternoon I did need a little powder touch-up. For the price, I cannot recommend this enough to everyone." 

Don’t be put off by the black colour of this mattifying primer, the oil-free formula absorbs into the skin after working in and leaves no cast. Designed to create a smooth and completely matte base for makeup application, this primer works hard to offset shine and prolong foundation wear. The refreshing formula is infused with Vitamin E, which deeply hydrated our skin to keep it looking fresher, plumper and nourished for longer. Any oil and shine was kept at bay and we didn’t need to touch up with powder as much as we normally do. 

Beauty writer Annie was pleasantly surprised by this product. "I won't lie, the black formula of this scared me at first but after a minute of working into my skin, it disappeared. This primer was one of the best for keeping shine at bay all day and didn't show any signs of excess oil. It did sit in my pores slightly but wasn't too much of an issue. I think if you suffer with a shiny complexion then this would perform as one of the best primers for oily skin." 

How we tested the best primers for oily skin

For the purpose of finding the best primers for oily skin, we made sure that proper testing was conducted. We wanted to try options at all price points, so tried products from budget brands all the way through to high-end, luxury picks. 

We tested each product over several days, to get a good idea of how they each felt on the skin and how well they performed alongside our normal makeup routine. We've also looked at the ingredient list, checked the prices and our shine levels, and then considered our thoughts on the application and how well it lasts. 

Lastly, we consulted the experts - a team of trusted make-up artists - who recommended the best primers for oily skin on the market as well as the products they're most loyal to. 

How to use the best primers for oily skin

Wondering if it's the way you apply your primer rather than the formula letting you down? These MUA top tips will help you ensure that your primer is performing the way it should. 

“You don’t need to use a mattifying primer all over your face if you only have targeted oily areas such as your nose, chin, or cheeks," recommends Simons. 

She continues, “Prime your skin everywhere else with a normal primer and then you can target the oiliest areas with a mattifying primer - your overall look doesn’t need to be fully matte and you can still maintain a natural glow on other areas such as your cheekbones. 

“Don’t forget to mattify eyelids as this area can get very greasy. This will also help with make-up application on the eyelids, so your eyeshadow won’t crease.” 

Can you wear primer without makeup?

You absolutely can wear a primer without makeup! There's no need for you to feel like you have to apply makeup on top if that's not what you want. 

The best primers for oily skin will still work to minimize oil and keep your face looking shine-free all day, with or without makeup. Primers are a great last step in your skincare routine and make the ideal accompaniment for no-makeup days. 

Top skincare tips for using the best primers for oily skin

We couldn't speak to the experts without getting their inside knowledge on the top tips for using the best primers for oily skin. 

MUA Brooke Simons says it's all about the skin prep ahead of primer application that matters. “Really look after the skin prep first before applying your make-up and make sure you give yourself a hydrated base." She tells us to "then apply your mattifying primer, and dust a bit of powder before applying foundation if you’re super oily.”

Meanwhile, Ruby Hammer also warns that "the drier you make your skin, the more oil it has to produce to compensate - it is a vicious circle. Avoid alcohol-based products and don’t over-exfoliate the skin," she recommends. 

Looking for more product recommendations? Check out our guides to the best long-lasting perfumes, and the best red lipsticks.

They're much-loved by dermatologists and beauty experts, but which CeraVe cleanser is the right one for you?

“Dermatologists often recommend a CeraVe cleanser because of their ability to effectively cleanse the skin without disrupting its natural moisture balance," says Dr Salome Dharamshi, dermatologist and founder of Sky Clinic. “Many skincare products on the high street are often complicated, containing several ingredients that, often even for professionals, are unknown. We love CeraVe cleansers because they contain minimal ingredients that are proven to be beneficial to the skin.”

Everyone can benefit from using facial cleanser, but with thousands of products out there, how do you narrow it down? Whether it's a case of ensuring you wash your face properly or if you’re interested in getting rid of spots, this CeraVe cleanser review guide promises to answer all your burning questions. With the help of skincare experts, we hope to assist you in choosing the right CeraVe cleanser for you based on your skin type and concerns. 

How we reviewed each CeraVe cleanser

• Star rating: Our in-house star-rating system is based on peer reviews. They’ve tried and tested the cleansers and awarded stars based on factors such as product quality, ease of use, customer feedback, awards, and value for money. Products that have received a 5-star status are rare and considered exceptional, going above and beyond our reviewer’s expectations.
• Active ingredients: We looked out for effective active ingredients such as hydrating hyaluronic acid, oil-balancing niacinamide, barrier-enforcing ceramides, nourishing squalane, and spot-busting salicylic acid. Ideal cleanser ingredients that will make a noticeable difference to skin quality. 
• Non-Comedogenic: We're always conscious to select skincare with ingredients that won't clog or block the pores on your skin. This is particularly important for those with acne-prone or oily skin.
• Texture: Each of the cleansers we reviewed has a different texture and some are more suited to different skin types. Foaming formulas are best for oily skin types, oil is suited to dry skin and cream cleansers are beneficial to normal and combination. 

**It’s important to note that CeraVe is not deemed a vegan or cruelty-free brand as its products are produced in a country that continues to test on animals. CeraVe packaging is also non-sustainable, its plastic containers and pumps are not widely recyclable. But do check your country's website and bottles to double-check this.**

CeraVe cleanser reviews

Accepted by the National Eczema Association, this Hydrating CeraVe cleanser is an absolute saviour for anyone with dry skin. The non-foaming, pH-balanced formula also contains Multivesicular Emulsion (MVE) Technology for a controlled and constant release of nourishing and hydrating ingredients throughout the day to stop your skin's moisture levels from dropping. Arguably the most popular cleanser from the brand, the hydrating cleanser has a cult status, and for good reason. The non-irritating, gel-based formula is suitable for all skin types, especially sensitive and dry skin. 

Senior Beauty Editor, Rhiannon Derbyshire loves this formula. "The skincare hill I'll die on is that you don't have to spend a lot of money on a cleanser, and this is the perfect example of that rule. It's fuss-free, pleasant to use and leaves my skin feeling clean but still comfortable. I've recommended this cleanser to countless people, and they always come back impressed. I'll be repurchasing for a lifetime." 

This is also a firm favourite of Beauty Writer, Annie Milroy, "This no-frills hydrating cleanser really is one of the best and most effective cleansers I’ve tried. The refreshing cream gently cleansed my face and helped remove excess makeup as part of my routine second cleanse. The formula felt silky smooth and despite not foaming, deeply cleaned and hydrated my face. My skin was left incredibly soft and I noticed that after a week of use, I had a lovely glow and noticeably clear skin."

Dr Ifeoma Ejikeme, Medical Consultant Skin Expert, and Founder of Adonia Medical Clinic, talks us through the formula of this CeraVe cleanser. “CeraVe Hydrating Cream to Foam Cleanser is designed to gently cleanse and hydrate the skin without stripping its natural moisture.” She continues, “Its cream-to-foam formula helps to remove impurities and makeup while also providing hydration to the skin.”

The Amino-acid based cleanser penetrates into the pores to remove any build-up and contains Hyaluronic acid to maintain and restore moisture levels. The formula also includes the same protective and nourishing essential Ceramides as the Hydrating Cleanser as well as the brand's revolutionary MVE Technology, which slowly releases hydration throughout the day. 

Beauty Writer, Annie loved this formula. “I normally avoid foam cleansers as I thought they were better suited to people with oily complexions, but I really enjoyed using this. This formula foamed up immediately and with just one pump produced enough product for a generous cleanse. It left my skin looking plump and nourished and despite being a foaming formula, I would not hesitate to use it again and again."

Dr Ifeoma Ejikeme says, “This cleanser contains 2% salicylic acid, which helps to reduce blemishes. It’s a powerful yet gentle acne-fighting cleanser that's suitable for a wide range of skin types.” She continues, “Its key ingredients work together to cleanse and exfoliate the skin while maintaining its natural barrier function, helping to leave the skin feeling refreshed and healthy.”

Beauty Writer, Annie tried it for herself. “I was worried about this CeraVe cleanser as it has high levels of salicylic acid and low levels of hydrating hyaluronic acid, so I was convinced it would massively dry my skin but I was absolutely proven wrong.” 

She continues: “A couple of pumps of this cream cleanser managed to coat my face in a light foam which worked to deeply cleanse and exfoliate my skin. It immediately left my skin feeling incredibly smooth and soft. I was truly impressed with this formula and would definitely use it when my skin is showing signs of blemishes and spots. I trust they would be cleared away after a few consistent uses of this cleanser.”

If your skin tends to be an uneven texture and is prone to bumps or even acne scars, this smoothing cleanser will help get rid of acne scars fast and keep skin hydrated and healthy. It’s packed with spot-fighting salicylic acid so it will help to reduce existing blemishes as well as help fight off future ones too.

Due to the fact that it contains salicylic acid, people that suffer from very sensitive skin might struggle to get along with this formula, so it's something to definitely bare in mind. Dr. Alexis Granite, CeraVe Consultant Dermatologist, explains, “I’d recommend using every other day to start while your skin builds up a tolerance to the ingredients.” 

Senior Beauty Editor, Rhiannon uses this cleanser to help reduce spots. “I have blemish-prone skin so I have to pick cleansers quite carefully - this is one of my favourites. It's deep cleaning without feeling drying, and the price point is brilliant too.”

Beauty Director, Sarah Cooper-White is also a huge fan. "CeraVe SA Smoothing Cleanser is loaded with salicylic acid and hyaluronic acid to smooth bumps and breakouts without leaving the skin feeling dry and tight. It's brilliant for removing makeup too and is a cleanser I always go back to. You can use it in the shower too on chicken skin arms and legs."

Dr Granite explains “A truly unique formulation, this CeraVe cleanser is a cult favourite. The oil lathers into a rich foam for a thorough yet gentle cleanse and is a great option for those with drier skin types. Enriched with squalane and triglycerides, two ingredients found naturally within our skin, the formulation also helps to fortify the skin barrier.”

Beauty Editor, Jess Beech, loves this formula. "There’s a myth that you shouldn’t use oily cleansers if you have oily skin (like me), but I think this cleanser would keep all but the ultra-oily happy. I use oil cleansers religiously as part of my second cleanse in the evenings. They are notoriously great for keeping dry and oily skin feeling healthy and hydrated and I often slather on oil-based products for when my skin needs a little TLC." 

She recommends, "So if like me you’re someone that loves using some of the best facial oils for dry skin, you will adore this foaming oil cleanser. Just one pump was more than enough to cover my whole face in a rich oil that left my skin clean, plump, and intensely nourished. It’s super gentle but still makes breaking through even heavy makeup look easy. The foaming element means it rinses well, so you’re not left with any oily residue on the skin."

If you're prone to excess oil or blemishes, then this is the cleanser for you. Dermatologically developed, the foaming gel CeraVe cleanser helps to deeply clean the pores and remove excess oil, dirt, and makeup to purify the skin. The formula contains Hyaluronic Acid to keep the skin hydrated and prevent it from becoming rough and dry, as well as Niacinamide which works to calm the skin, reducing any redness and reducing the appearance of blemishes. The Niacinamide also helps to control excess sebum production to prevent any future breakouts. 

Dr Ejikeme explains, "The CeraVe Foaming Cleanser contains ceramides, which are essential lipids that help to maintain the skin’s natural barrier. By supporting the skin’s barrier function, ceramides help lock in moisture and prevent dehydration, leaving the skin feeling hydrated and smooth."

Beauty Editor, Jess Beech tried this formula for her oily skin. "It’s another no-frills yet hard-working cleanser from the brand that's packed with active ingredients like niacinamide and hyaluronic acid. It didn’t leave my skin feeling as hydrated as the other foaming CeraVe cleanser, but if you have oily skin then this will really be the ideal cleanser for you."

Dr Granite reveals, “An updated version of a classic, the CeraVe Hydrating Cleansing Bar is a great, low-maintenance option for both face and body cleansing. Formulated with CeraVe's signature MVE technology, this mighty soap-free bar is packed with 5% CeraVe Moisturising Cream, deeply hydrating ceramides, and hyaluronic acid.”

Beauty Writer, Annie says. "I've always been put off by solid beauty products as I always find they don’t deliver the results I want. This was the last CeraVe cleanser I tried out of the batch as I was the least excited about it but the results really did prove me wrong."

She continues, "I was really shocked at how much foam was produced and how much product lathered onto my hands. I worked it in as normal and then rinsed my face. I normally find that cleanser bars strip my skin of moisture and was expecting the normal tight face feeling but it never arrived. This product truly wowed me and totally changed my opinion about cleansing bars. I will be using this exclusively when I travel as a face and body bar which will care for my skin health from head to toe."

Should I use a CeraVe cleanser every day?

CeraVe cleansers are safe and gentle enough to be used every day on any skin type. To best see results use morning and night before applying skincare or makeup. 

Easily incorporated into any beauty routine, CeraVe cleansers are effective and simple to use. Dr Dharamshi confirms this. “Face cleansers should be used twice daily, in the morning and before bedtime. Consistency is key for any skincare regime.”

How long does it take to see results from a CeraVe cleanser?

If the results you're looking for are clean, content skin, you'll see results straight away. However, if you have longer-term goals Dr Dharamshi suggests, “Skincare is a long-term commitment. For optimum results, it’s recommended at least twelve weeks of consistent use. However, the changes can be seen as quickly as six weeks after starting.” 

It’s important to be consistent when trying out a new skincare product, especially if you have problem skin. Usually, it takes a minimum of six weeks for any visible results to be seen from beauty products but with CeraVe cleansers, you will notice immediately softness and cleanliness straight after use.

We spoke to the following skin and beauty experts:

Video of the Week

The best eye creams for dark circles provide a solution to shadowy, tired-looking undereyes. Our beauty editor has tried and tested the best products to help parents battling with exhaustion feel a little more fresh.

Parents will know better than anyone that tiredness can take a toll on your complexion. Sleep deprivation might as well be part of the job description, and along with dullness and fine lines, this often results in dark circles. One of the most effective ways to get rid of dark circles under your eyes, besides drinking more water, cutting alcohol consumption and eating a vitamin-rich diet, is to apply topical creams containing active ingredients that will help you look less tired. “For anyone concerned about signs of ageing, I recommend trying topical treatments before other methods, as it’s often preventative,” explains Dr Zoya Diwan, Expert in Clinical and Aesthetic Dermatology. There are specific ingredients that work specifically on improving the skin tone under the eye, according to Dr Angela Tewari, Consultant Dermatologist at The Lister Hospital, who says, “Using an eye cream with ingredients with vitamin C, and retinol can help brighten the under-eye area and reduce the appearance of dark circles.”

The thing about the eye area is it’s much more fragile than the skin across the rest of the face. This means it’s not only likely to suffer from dehydration and show signs of ageing much more easily, but also makes it more sensitive. Your best moisturiser and facial oils are likely to be much too heavy for this area, and can actually make puffiness and dark circles worse. Instead, you need a dedicated eye cream that's gentle and light enough for this puff-prone area. From high street favourites to luxurious formulas with anti-ageing benefits, our selection of the best eye creams for dark circles will help pare down bags, restore hydration and brighten up tired under-eyes - even when your kids have been keeping you up all night.

What to consider when looking for the best eye cream for dark circles

• Star rating: Our in-house star-rating system is based on peer reviews. We’ve tried and tested the eye creams and awarded stars based on factors such as product quality, ease of use, customer feedback, awards and value for money. Products that have received a five-star status are rare and considered exceptional, going above and beyond our reviewer’s expectations.
• Active ingredients: The best eye creams for dark circles contain potent active ingredients, such as antioxidants, caffeine, peptides, retinol and brightening ingredients like vitamin C. Some eye creams on this list contain optical brighteners that provide an immediate improvement. 
• Cruelty-free: More and more beauty brands have realised that testing on animals is not a humane or sustainable practice. We’re keen to select products from brands that follow this ethos.
• Packaging: Eye creams come in many forms - whether that’s a snazzy pump dispenser or squeezy tube. Both forms help to keep the active ingredients fresh to maintain their potency, as well as being a more hygienic option than a jar that you have to scoop from. And of course, sustainability is a serious concern - anything that is non-recyclable is a no-no for us.

Best eye creams for dark circles

How long does eye cream take to work for dark circles?

“I would say to stick with an eye cream for at least three months,” says Dr Tewari. “Remember that everyone’s skin is different, so it may take some trial and error to find the right eye cream for you. It’s important to follow the instructions on the product and be patient, as it can take time to see results.”

According to Prudvi Kaka, “The amount of time it would take to see results varies greatly depending on the ingredients included in the formulation, how consistent you are with the use of the product and the initial condition of the skin.”

Supplementing a great skincare regime with a healthy, vitamin-loaded diet will help brighten the under eyes and speed up visible results. “Internally, focus on hydration by sticking to a water-rich diet that contains foods high in vitamin C, vitamin E and vitamin K,” advises Dr Murad. “Infused sources of vitamin C can be found in oranges and berries, rich vitamin E can be found in nuts and whole grains, and leafy vegetables are a great source for vitamin K.” 

Lifestyle changes will help make an impact on dark circles too. “Make sure you are getting a full and restful night’s sleep,” says Murad. “During the sleep cycle your skin rebuilds and repairs itself, so it is imperative to allow your body and your mind enough time to rest and rejuvenate. Follow these simple tips daily and see how small changes can add up to big results!”

What is the best time to apply under eye cream? 

Eye cream should be applied twice a day, morning and evening. Always apply eye cream on clean skin, after face serum and before moisturiser. Dot a grain of rice-sized amount around each eye, tapping with your ring finger using light pressure. 

If applying in the morning, you may want to choose a lighter formulation that will play nicely with makeup. In the evening, you can afford to use a richer cream with ingredients restricted to nighttime use, such as retinol.

Looking for more expert beauty advice? We've rounded up the best winter skincare tips for busy mums, as well as a list of the best hand creams. You might also want to find out what slugging skin is. 

We spoke to the following skin-care experts:

Learning how to use facial cleanser is a key step in your beauty routine - if your skin is properly cleansed, it’ll help your serums to work harder and ensure makeup will sit better. 

We've hear of all the best-sellers - Cerave cleansers, Garner micellar water - but what do they actually do? "A cleanser is the foundation of any skincare routine, and the first step before grabbing for your skin toner" says Dr Ewoma Ukeleghe, medical and cosmetic doctor, as well as Superdrug skincare ambassador. "It’s an important step to get rid of grime, dirt, pollution, makeup and sunscreen at the end of the day. If you leave these things on your skin, it could, in the long term, leave your skin inflamed, which leads to redness, breakouts and texture issues.”

Understanding how to wash your face properly isn’t only important if you’re wearing makeup. “You still need to remove other products which your skin comes into contact with, such as daily pollutants, dirt, oils and sweat,” explains Dr Alexis Granite, consultant dermatologist at CevaVe. "Cleansing ensures a fresh canvas for the additional products in your skincare routine, allowing them to penetrate more effectively." Think of it as giving your best night cream or best moisturiser a helping hand. 

How to use facial cleanser: Step-by-step

Exactly how to use facial cleanser will depend on the specific product you’re using. For full instructions, always check the back of the packaging, or on the brand’s website. The below is a rough guide to get you started but it may need to be tweaked depending on the cleanser you've gone for. 

Step 1: Dampen your skin – or don’t

Foaming, gel and cream cleansers are normally best applied to damp skin, as the addition of water will help them to lather and spread. 

If you’re using an oil or balm cleanser, you won’t need to wet your face first. Applying this kind of cleanser to dry skin gives the oils maximum opportunity to break down the makeup, SPF and daily grime on the surface of your skin. 

Step 2: Massage in your cleanser

It’s tempting to just hap-hazardly smoosh your cleanser around your face when you’re in a hurry or first learning how to use facial cleanser, but ideally, you should take around a minute to massage it in. 

Not only will that ensure a thorough cleanse (don’t forget the crevices at the side of your nose) but it’s also a nice opportunity for a moment of calm at the start and end of the day. Focus on areas that hold tension, like your forehead and jaw. 

Step 3: Rinse

Cleansers aren’t designed to be in contact with your skin for a long period of time, so it’s important to rinse them thoroughly. You could use a damp muslin cloth or flannel to remove your cleanser, rinsing and re-wetting it until it’s all gone. Or, you could just rinse with water.

Step 4: Repeat if needed

If you’ve been wearing makeup or SPF, many experts recommend double cleansing. The idea is that the first cleanse will remove surface-level grime, your makeup and SPF, allowing the second cleanse to really work into your pores. 

"With double cleansing, you spend more time on cleansing," says Dr Ewoma. "I highly recommend this if you wear makeup or sunscreen." 

You can either repeat the process exactly with the same cleanser or, use an oil-based cleanser first, followed by a water-based one. 

When should you use a facial cleanser?

It should always be the first step in your skincare routine, as it’s there to cleanse the skin and prep it for the rest of your products. As for the time of day you need to use a facial cleanser, and how often, that’s much more down to your skin type and lifestyle. 

"The general rule of thumb is twice a day, morning and night," advises Dr Ewoma. "However, this can change depending on your skin type and what your life schedule looks like. If you’re someone that has a drier, bordering on eczematous, skin type, then you may find that cleansing your skin say once is more than enough."

If that sounds like you, it’s best to prioritise the evening cleanse, as your skin will come into contact with more things during the day than at night, and just rinse your face with water in the morning.

"It’s really about adjusting your cleansing to what your skin needs and deserves," Dr Ewoma continues. "Cleansing morning and night doesn’t work for everyone. For example, if you have a busy schedule, go to the gym during the day or work in a kitchen, then you may want to cleanse your skin three times a day. It’s important to be responsive to your lifestyle and what your skin is telling you."

If you’re finding that you're cleanser isn't agreeing with you, maybe it's leaving your skin feeling tetchy and overworked, or not quite clean enough, then you can always adapt your routine or the product you're using. 

"I think it’s really important to select cleansers that are suitable for your particular skin type," says Dr Alexis. "You may also choose a different cleanser in the morning to in the evening. For example, if you suffer from dry or sensitive skin, select a cream-based, hydrating cleanser for the morning and a more foaming, thorough cleanser in the evening to wash off the day."

Do you wash off a facial cleanser?

Unlike serums and moisturisers which have been formulated to stay on your skin, a cleanser should only be a temporary fixture and always needs to be washed off. It’s really important to rinse your cleanser away thoroughly. 

"There are a couple of reasons why you should remove your cleanser properly," says Dr Ewoma. "The first reason is that if you move on to the next step of your skincare routine without rinsing well, then your skin is going to start lathering up from any leftover cleanser. 

"Also, depending on the type of cleanser and the ingredients within it, it causes irritation."

Surfactants in particular, which are a type of ingredient regularly used in cleansers which "can cause irritation if left on the skin for prolonged periods of time," adds Dr Alexis.  

What are the benefits of using a cleanser?

1. Cleansing your skin

You wouldn’t wear the same clothes you wore to the gym without washing them, and the same approach needs to be applied to your skin. 

"If we are not cleansing, we’re essentially allowing build-up on the skin which can open up a whole range of issues," explains Dr Alexis. Understanding how to use facial cleanser daily will ensure nothing outstays it’s welcome on your skin long enough to cause problems. 

2. Gently exfoliating

Your cleanser may have exfoliating acids (like alpha-hydroxy acids) within the formula, contain fruit enzymes or even include gritty particles – all of which are there to gently exfoliate the skin. 

This approach to exfoliation is gentler than using a leave-on exfoliant and allows you to do so more regularly. Just be careful not to overdo it if your skin is sensitive. 

3. Improving the efficacy of your skincare

Sitting in traffic when you’ve got somewhere to be is really annoying, and that’s exactly how our skincare feels when applied to skin that hasn’t been properly cleansed. 

With a cocktail of makeup, sunscreen and daily grime still sitting on the skin, there’s nowhere for it to go, so it can’t make its way into your skin and get to work. No matter how fancy your best vitamin C serum or retinol product is, it won’t be effective if your skin isn’t clean. 

4. Reducing irritation

As we have already established from Dr Ewoma, not cleansing can "leave your skin inflamed, leading to sensitivity, redness, breakouts and texture issues." The kind of things our skin comes into contact with on a daily basis, like skincare, makeup and pollution, will all start to wreck havoc if not properly removed at the end of the day. 

5. Nourishing skin

If you have very dry skin, then your cleanser is a nice opportunity to give your skin some extra TLC. Using a nourishing balm cleanser, packed with oils like those found in the best facial oils, will allow you to gently cleanse without stripping the skin or driving dryness, making for a softer, smoother and more comfortable complexion. 

6. Keeping breakouts at bay

Spots form when dead skin cells and oil combine to create a blockage. If you cleanse your skin regularly, you’ll at least be washing away the excess oil, and, if you’re using an exfoliating cleanser or removing it with a muslin cloth, you’ll probably be removing the dead skin cells too. 

Not to mention that cleansing also removes other potentially pore-clogging elements. "Build up of things like oils, dirt and sweat can lead to clogged pores, breakouts and even acne," says Dr Alexis. 

7. Managing dehydration

When our skin is dry or dehydrated, the rate at which our cells turnover slows right down. This means that there are more old skin cells than normal sitting on the top layers of the skin, which can make it difficult for hydration to make it’s way in. 

Cleansing regularly will help to dislodge some of these, and a water-based cleanser will deliver a splash of much-needed hydration. 

Facial cleansers: Our top 3 picks 

This is a crowd-pleasing cleanser that will slot seamlessly into anyone’s skincare routine. It’s relatively no frills, which you’d probably expect from the price, but works really well. It is cream-textured, hydrating and contains three different types of ceramides. 

The ceramides help to restore the mortar that holds our skin cells together, working to reduce water loss and stop external aggressors from making their way into the skin. This cleanser can be used around the eye area too, which is always handy. A great buy for anyone who's new to facial cleanser. 

If you have oily skin or are prone to breakouts, there’s a tendency to go in all guns blazing when it comes to cleansing. Due to the unhelpful associations between acne and dirt (almost all acne is actually driven by hormones), many people over-wash or opt for something very harsh with the aim of soaking up excess oil or drying out blemishes. 

This cleanser is the antidote to all of this. It is satisfyingly foamy enough to leave skin feeling fresh and clean, but without disrupting your skin barrier or zapping moisture. 

This cult cleanser is an absolute joy to use. It has a comforting milky scent that makes you feel instantly relaxed, with a creamy, ever-so-slightly grainy texture. It doesn’t foam, which is one of the reasons why it’s so great for dry or dehydrated skin, as it doesn’t strip your complexion. 

Despite this, it still manages to persuade away a day’s worth of grime. Unlike some cream cleansers, it doesn’t leave any residue on your skin, so although it’s best for dry skin, there’s absolutely no reason why someone with oily, combination or normal skin wouldn’t love this too.

We spoke to the following skincare experts: 

Video of the Week

It's good news for beauty addicts with Sephora UK opening a store this month.

We got our first taste of Sephora stores back in the early noughties - but sadly the company retreated from the UK completely in 2005, meaning many had to make the trip overseas to get their hands on their favourite moisturisers, facial oils and hair masks by the brand again.

Fast forward to 2023 and there's a lot to report from Sephora HQ. After relaunching their online shop late last year, March 2023 brings with it the exciting news that Sephora is opening a flagship store in England's capital. We share details of the store location, unveiling date and what brands will be on sale there.

Where is Sephora opening in the UK?

Sephora will open it's first store on March 8, 2023 at the White City Westfield Shopping Centre, based in Shepherd's Bush, London. The flagship store has been teased as the "first of its kind in the world" thanks to it's size and design features.

According to WWD, the Sephora store front will be decked out in the brand's signature black-and-white stripes. Meanwhile, inside, the shop boasts Sephora’s first Lip Bar, a Benefit cosmetics Brow Bar and a 'Hot on Social' corner, which will curate the top trending beauty products currently on social media. Occupying 600m² of space, it's set to be a big and popular presence at White City.

"This new store will showcase best-in-class beauty expertise and provide unique services to UK customers, including make-up, skin care, hair care, fragrance, body and personalised gifting,” says Sarah Boyd, Sephora UK Managing Director. "We cannot wait to welcome our first customers."

The cult beauty brand has shared that - when open - the store will be home to 135 different high street and premium bands. Some of which are only available to buy via Sephora.

To mark the opening of the Westfield store, the official Sephora Instagram account has shared competition details for one followers to win a chance to attend the YIP store launch event. The lucky winner will also have their makeup done by award-winning Makeup Artist Natasha Denona.

Similarly, Catch a Gem have announced on Twitter that Sephora will be giving away free goodie bags as part of the store unveiling. Just make sure you're one of 300 queued up first.

News of Sephora UK opening in March has certainly gone down well with British fans of the brand online. One Twitter user tweeted that she was making the trip to England's capital just for the special occasion: "Am I spontaneously going to London with Ry on Thursday next week for the day? Yes, yes I am! Am I also going bcs @Sephora will have just opened their first UK store? Also yes! omg I’m so excited 😂"

Another excited fan tweeted: "Sephora is opening in just a few days and I can’t wait because your girl has got a whole long ass shopping list". Meanwhile @anchalllll tweeted: "Sephora opening in Westfield is exactly what was needed."

What brands will be available in Sephora UK?

According to the Sephora website, beauty addicts can "expect Tarte and ILIA Beauty to Makeup by Mario, ONE/SIZE and our *very own* Sephora Collection" in the new Sephora Westfield store.

Other brand highlights include Makeup by Mario, GXVE by Gwen Stefani, Drunk Elephant, R.E.M. Beauty and Jo Malone. Not forgetting the popular Fenty Beauty line created by Rihanna. Sephora became the first place to sell the US Singer's make-up and skincare range back in September 2017.

Is Sephora available online in the UK? 

Yes, Sephora officially launched their online UK website back in October 17, 2023. UK Customers you can now shop items on Sephora.co.uk and get them delivered to any UK Home address (free delivery over £20).

It's not the first time Sephora had a website. Back in 2014, the company added a UK shipping option to it's worldwide website. However, Forbes claims that new GDPR rules led to it shutting down in 2018.

Why did Sephora leave the UK?

Sephora previously opened six stores in the UK between 2000 and 2005, however in May 2005 the brand closed down all stores and exited the UK retail market. Forbes claim that the company left due to strong competition and rising rent costs.

"The LVMH-owned retailer blamed soaring rents and costs for its inability to compete with the established players last time round, yet it was undoubtedly an embarrassing climb-down for a retailer that entered the market with great fanfare," writes Mark Faithfull.

17 years on from their first venture into Britain, Sephora are trying their luck again with the all new Westfield store. It's hoped that this time round, the beauty brand will fare much better - thanks to last year's $147 million acquisition of European beauty giant FeelUnique.

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Video of the Week

There are a lot of great youthful hairstyles. We've spoken to five of the best hairdressers in the industry to find out which ones are going to flatter and compliment you best.

The hardest part will be finding the specific shape and style for you, based on your individual hair density, and texture. Face shape is also a factor, which is why it's important to consider things like hairstyles that suit long face shapes. It's also important not to take on a style you don’t feel comfortable trying, no matter how 'on trend' it might be. "More importantly it’s how the client feels when wearing a new look," says Bart Cacciapaglia, Senior Stylist at SALON64. "Nothing matters more when a client walks away feeling confident with the style chosen."

Whether you’re looking for the best bob hairstyles, or trying out a new medium or long style, these celebrity-inspired cuts have everyone covered, no matter what your age. Our guide includes expert hair stylist and hairdresser tips for helping to choose your look, what to ask for at the salon, and how to maintain at home yourself. 

30 ideas for youthful hairstyles

1. Asymmetric Bob

Asymmetric bobs are great for adding volume and dimension to your hair. Actress Lucy Hale has a feathery asymmetric bob that has lots of layers and softness. The diagonal cut stops the style from looking harsh and will help create a youthful and effortless look. 

"This is absolutely a style that is sticking with us,” Jason Collier, Celebrity Hairstylist and Brand Educator for Jerome Russell tells us. “This particular style suits a lot of face shapes as it adds softness. Adding the layering that comes with an asymmetrical bob that is cut feathery like Lucy's can make you look younger - especially if it's worn wavy."

2. Blunt Fringe

Fringes are a fabulous way of hiding any lines and wrinkles that don’t make you feel your best. A blunt cut like Zendaya’s works really well on hair that’s finer as it looks less boxy, as well as complimenting softer face types rather than those with defined bone structures. It's handy to know the best hair hacks for fringes to ensure we're styling them in the most youthful way. 

"When it comes to cutting a fringe, always go to a professional, as they will take into consideration your face shape, how your hair naturally falls, and how you usually wear your hair,” explains Jason. “Fringes soften facial features and also cover areas prone to wrinkles and lines. Make sure the fringe isn't too short though - fringes above the eyebrows as this can look quite ageing." 

3. Long Loose Waves

JLo’s flattering loose waves keep her looking much younger than 53, thanks to lots of layering and feathering. If you already have long hair then head to your salon and ask for some layers to keep it looking healthier and thicker. Style yourself at home with some tongs to keep it looking voluminous. 

"For this cut and style, layers have been added for dimension, as well as an individual distinction for each wave," Jason tells us. "This style suits oblong, heart, and triangle face shapes as it balances out your features. Long loose waves make you look younger as they make hair look more voluminous. The face-framing layers will give your hair some softness and movement," he advises.

4. Low Bun

The power of a taut low bun can transform your face thanks to the tightening around sagging skin areas like the eyes and forehead. It mimics the effects of a facelift and keeps you looking young and fresh, plus it’s so easy to achieve at home yourself. See Rosie Huntington-Whiteley's as inspiration.

"For this low bun, start by straightening your hair after using a heat protectant. Next you want to pull your hair back so the hair placement is at the middle of the face. Secure with a hair bobble into a tight ponytail and wrap your hair around it and secure it with lots of bobby pins,” explains Jason. 

5. Mid Length Curls

If you have natural curls then this style - shown by Ciara - is a guaranteed way to keep your hair looking healthy, and will suit all curly hair types. This length is a great gateway if you aren’t ready to cut into a bob but want to test how it feels at a short mid-length. Ensuring you’re looking after your curls will help maintain volume which keeps you looking young.

Jason says: "This is a gorgeous style and shape for those with natural curls, as it highlights each curl. Going to a curl specialist is important as they'll take into consideration your curl pattern, and coil tightness and make sure your cut is the most flattering.” He explains. "This style will make you look younger because voluminous curly hair looks healthy, fresh and youthful."

6. Relaxed Shoulder Bob

A popular style with celebrities of all ages, the relaxed shoulder bob has so many benefits and looks great on anyone. As showcased by actress Margot Robbie, the style can be worn in many ways including wavy, curly, straight or rough styled. 

"Go to the salon with how you usually style your hair so the stylist can see which length would suit you with your face shape, hairstyle, and texture,” Jason Collier tells us. "The style can take years off as it falls elegantly, highlights the eyes, face shape, and structure, but also distracts with its glamour." 

Jason recommends using a hair serum to boost that youthful shine. He particularly recommends this bargain buy which is packed with antioxidants and natural oils. Apply to damp hair before styling. He recommends Jerome Russell Bstyled Hair Serum - £6.99 | Superdrug

7. Chin Bob

A relaxed chin bob like Charlize Theron’s keeps things casual and will soften your features. Layers will help it to look thick and full of life and keep you looking youthful. Ask your hairdresser to style your chin bob with a side parting for an extra dose of volume at the root. 

“To achieve this, it’s important to maintain a blunt shape for max attitude, so ask your stylist for some subtle layers for the front to add a little softness,” Bart Cacciapaglia, Senior Stylist at SALON64, tells us. “Bobs are timeless because they can be so easily adapted to any face shape and style and there is so much room for personalisation.”

8. Curtain Bangs

Growing more popular, the curtain bang is definitely a fast-track way to look youthful (as Camilla Cabello shows). If you aren’t brave enough for a full fringe, this is a great alternative, which keeps crow's feet under wraps, yet still looks effortless. The curtain bang trend is a fab option for a youthful hairstyles.

“To create this look I would be very creative and use a visual and slicing technique to maintain a natural look rather than being geometric and fussy,” reveals Bart. “Playing with length, the curtain bang can suit all face shapes. To maintain at home use a big round brush or a big roller, perfect for setting while getting your makeup on for the evening ahead.”

9. High Ponytail

Best for those with long locks, a high ponytail is an effective way of turning back the clock. Thanks to the gentle pulling of the skin on your forehead and around your eyes, you’ll look like you’ve had a mini facelift, looking just as gorgeous as 45-year-old Kerry Washington. Here’s how to achieve the look for yourself…

Bart explains, “Apply a tiny amount of serum from the roots to the middle length. Then create a small ponytail at the top center of the head and secure it with an elastic band. Spray a generous amount of hairspray around the hairline and start brushing the hair toward the small ponytail, making sure everything is smooth. Make sure to keep looking in the mirror when creating this look. It’s a great way to lift your skin and give you a fresh look.”

10. Side Fringe

A strong side fringe like Sarah Paulson’s can seem quite daunting but it works really well for covering and concealing ageing features. It also draws attention to your eyes and softens a square or round jawline. This style works well for 48-year-old Sarah, helping her look much younger than she is.

Bart tells us, “We will definitely see side fringes having a huge comeback this year. If you have a square jawline, a long, layered side fringe can help to soften and balance your features and is something I certainly recommend to my clients looking for a youthful look."

11. Pixie Crop

Always looking wildly younger than she is, 64 year old actress Jamie Lee-Curtis has loved her iconic pixie crop for decades now and it’s no wonder. While a dramatic change for some, a pixie crop can really be so transformative, layers add depth and a dynamic shape, plus it’s so easy to maintain. 

“Short haircuts are more on trend than ever and the number of styles you can try are endless," Bart tells us. "This look generally works on oval face shapes and fine hair, but those with other face shapes and thick hair can still support a pixie as long as the look is adapted to them.”

12. Textured Mid- Length

A blunt, textured mid-length style like Sandra Bullock's, keeps her looking her best. The 58-year-old’s style suits her so well thanks to the length and full body volume. Ask your hairdresser for a mid-length look with lots of added layers to create the illusion of thick, healthy hair, which is the secret to a youthful look. 

Bart reveals how he'd get this look. “Start cutting the desired length and finish adding some secret layers. This type of style is timeless because it can be easily adapted to any face shape and style and fashion trend” he says. “Playing with length and layers, this haircut can suit everybody. Effortless looks make you look younger, fresher and more current."

13. Mid Length Balayage

A touch of light balayage at the ends of your hair can help totally transform your style. Claire Foy is sporting a gorgeous caramel tone for her mid-length lob and it looks gorgeous, brightening up her brunette tone. 

Sara, Hair Designer at Fowler35 explained, “This length can definitely make you look younger, especially if you are in need of a good haircut and you’ll be creating really strong and healthy hair," she says. "You can maintain this style at home by using a curling wand - just be use to always use a heat protector, to keep your hair healthy."

14. Curly Fringe

51-year-old Sandra Oh looks fabulous with her curly fringe, adding a fun youthful feel to her mid-length hair. This would work on all curl textures and lengths, but it depends if you can put up with the upkeep of a fringe, which can be more demanding when your hair has more texture. If you've mastered curly hair upkeep, you'll find it easy to incorporate a fringe into your routine, but if you're after a more low-maintenance look, a fringe might be best avoided. 

“People with oval-shaped faces will suit this overall style," advises Sara. "I would achieve this look by adding layers, shaping and adding a textured fringe. Once cut, style using a small barrel tong, creating a textured messy look."

15. Light Layered Bob

Actress Naomi Watts, 54 always looks radiant, and we're sure her sleek, stylish hairstyle is a factor. Always one to rock a bob or a lob (long bob), she has consistently managed to look much younger than her actual age. This lightly layered bob is one of her most stiking styles, and it looks so gorgeous on her. 

"The lightly layered bob style can make someone look younger in a modern and expensive way and can make this style look super cool," says Sara. "I would use a blunt sharp line with a slight graduation to create this haircut. If your hair is a bit finer this is a great way to make it look thicker. If you’re looking to have a drastic change or something low maintenance, this is perfect."

16. Long Natural Curls

If you have long natural curls then now is the time to optimise them (a la Blake Lively). The thickness of the ringlets will create a healthy hair look that's full of body. This is a style that can help you appear much more youthful and fresh. It’s also so easy to replicate if you have straight hair that needs a bit of oomph - all you'll need is a good pair of tongs. 

“Big hair will always be on trend as the tight curls create beautiful definition and volume” explains, Sara. “This would suit someone who has a square-shaped face or rectangular shape, creating and contouring the right volume to enhance their lines of beauty and make you look younger."

17. Natural Afro

50-year-old actress Tracee Ellis Ross, has embraced her stunning natural afro and looks amazing for it. Her thick head of curls makes her look super youthful, due to their incredible volume and bounce. It’s such a huge trend at the moment to showcase your natural hair type and is a great pick for youthful hairstyles.

“I would cut the whole hair dry using graduation at the bottom creating the volume and then layering the top to keep it airy then wet the hair and twist tight curls” Sara tells us. "Embracing your own textured hair and volume will suit any face shape especially if you have square, rectangle face shapes. This style can make you look younger if the hair is kept moisturised and hydrated.” 

Sara suggests using curl-enhancing products to help keep their shape. "This spray will keep the style and curl contoured and hydrated," she says. We love the fresh scent of Kerastase Curl Manifesto Refresh Absolu Spray - £33.70 | Look Fantastic just a few spritzes will revive limp curls even if it's been days since your last wash day. 

18. Super Pixie

A super pixie, like, 57-year-old, Viola Davis rocks is definitely a bold statement. But if you’re brave enough it can look amazingly striking. If you're curious but not feeling quite brave enough to go for the dramatic chop, start off slowly, by regularly going and getting a haircut and going shorter each visit.

Sara says: “This is a style that would stick around for those that have textured hair and wish to create something that is a drastic change. This is great for those that have an oval shape and it can make someone look younger if the hair is cut regularly and kept in good condition. Make sure the hair is being treated delicately by sleeping in a silk scarf or having a silk pillowcase.”

19. Asymmetrical Pixie

For those with feminine features, an asymmetrical pixie crop will prove super flattering and elegant. As demonstrated by Zoe Kravitz, this style can work so well, if chosen by the right person. Make sure to always ask your hairdresser before opting for a daring cut like this.

“The short pixie crop has long been an iconic hairstyle that oozes fearlessness and is making a comeback” explains hair expert Michael Douglas. “It’s quite a masculine style, so it’s suited to people with feminine features. However, anyone can suit short hair and this particular style can be versatile - just speak to your hairdresser to find the right version of it for you.”

20. Blunt Bob

46-year-old actress Naomie, looks incredible with her blunt bob. The strong centre parting and blunt chop will accentuate your features whilst framing your face. This dynamic style is ideal for those with strong jawlines and features and is a fabulous option for one of the best youthful hairstyles. 

“This style is called a square bob, as it’s the same length at the front, back, and all the way round. It’s normally cut dry in order to achieve a blunt finish,” explains Michael. "Start by getting it cut chin length, then gradually go shorter to determine which length suits best. It frames the jawline, which can make the face appear more youthful. It’s a chic style that looks good on anyone, regardless of age.”

21. Blunt Side Fringe

Actress Jennifer Garner, 50, has sported many hairstyles over the years but this is one of her best. The blunt side fringe masks any ageing features, whilst still providing a casual textured cut, that looks effortless and flattering for her age. It's certainly one of the most fabulous youthful hairstyles.

“This cut is a great way of evening out hair, so you get an even split of thickness on either side," Michael tells us. “A fringe can transform your face shape and bring out your best features. This style suits all face shapes and is particularly good for those with fine hair to create thickness."

22. High Bun

Helen Mirren has always defied her age but when she rocked this super chic high topknot, we simply couldn’t believe she was 77. Always one to embrace her natural greys, Helen has long been an inspiration when it comes to beauty and hair looks - no matter what her age was. 

“This messy topknot is a modern take on the sophisticated bun that can look good on all ages,” explains Michael.  “If the ponytail is high enough it tightens facial features, emphasising your eyes, eyebrows, and cheekbones. If hair is dry, blast the roots with dry shampoo then pull it up into a ponytail onto the crown of the head. You can then tease the ponytail and pin it to create a top knot.”

Using a good quality hairspray will help you achieve this youthful high bun, and it doesn't get much better than L'Oreal Paris Hairspray by Elnett for Strong Hold and Shine - RRP £2.39 | Look Fantastic. It holds hair in place while boosting shine and createing texture for extra volume. 

23. Hollywood Curls

50-year-old Sophia Vergara has one of the most classic hairstyles in Hollywood and we adore her voluminous red carpet curls. Offering both dramatic length and body, this style promises to work on any face shape and hair type. Adding a high-shine finish to the mix, it’s one of the most youthful-looking styles out there for people of all ages. 

“This style has long layers, with the shortest layer below the neck just touching the shoulders. It’s a very subtle hairdressing technique that adds instant movement and avoids the hair from looking too weighty," Michael says. "It has been the red carpet’s go-to hairstyle since the ’70s and isn’t going anywhere."

24. Side Parting

Adapting the position of your parting, which is an easy swap that can take seconds, can have a massive impact on the way your hair looks. As demonstrated by 55-year- old Nicole Kidman, a side parting will help create volume, even if you have fine hair. Adding in some loose curls also helps keep your look young and current. 

"A side parting with long locks can often give the illusion of length to rounder face shapes whilst also softening the jawline and wrinkles around the eye area” reveals Michael. “It suits most face shapes. I've found that taller people can carry it off better, as long hair can often make short people look smaller."

25. Feathered Mid Length

It’s hard to believe that Jennifer Aniston is 53-years-old but thanks to clever and stylish hairstyles, she’s managed to remain ageless for decades. This feathered mid-length style looks so elegant on her and continues to keep her looking youthful. An easy, flattering look, this is an obvious candidate for youthful hairstyles. 

"Ask your stylist for light, feathering, and non-harsh layers" advises Natalia Vera, Expert Stylist and Educator at Live True London. “They add movement and shape, which can help it appear more youthful. We expect to see this look sticking around as it’s a really versatile style, and you can adjust the layers to suit most face shapes."

26. Low Ponytail

40-year-old Gemma Chan looked beautiful in this low pony. Offering a youthful yet effortless style that compliments any face shape, this is an easy one to try for yourself at home. Suited to mid to long-length locks, this face-framing style showcases your best features whilst tightening the skin around your hairline.

Natalia talks us through how to achieve the look at home. “I'd recommend a pomade to create a tousled effect with plenty of volume. Gather hair at the nape of your neck and pull some strands free to frame the face and tuck the rest of your pony behind the ears."

27. Relaxed Face Framing Bob

Shorter hair can help you look younger, particularly one that frames your face just like Rosamund Pike, aged 44, does. Everything from the center middle part, the face-framing feathering, and tapered ends mean this style provides a chic and youthful look. 

"Ask your hairstylist for a bob length that hits just above your shoulders and has zero layers,” Natalia instructs us. “There’s a bob out there for every style, texture and face shape, but it’s a good idea to ask your stylist what length might suit you. Take into account your face shape - your stylist can recommend shaping, layers, or styling to suit you.” 

28. Short Curly Bob

Who says all bobs have to be straight? Laura Harrier’s short curly bob is an example of just how great they can look, no matter your hair type or texture. The length, layers and curls all make for a young-looking style that compliments any face shape or age. 

“How this cut is executed depends on the client, their style, and their hair goals," explains Natalia. “The great thing about a bob is that you can find a length for any face shape or style! Bobs will always be in style, and I love the embracing of natural texture. The laid back and low maintenance nature of this look is something that has made it popular."

29. Soft Beach Waves

Natural curly-haired actress Drew Barrymore, 47, has always embraced her bouncy locks. This mid-length looks so great on her as it keeps her hair looking full, thick, and really healthy, which is the secret to remaining youthful. Curls or no curls, this is a wearable, stylish option for youthful hairstyles.

“This tousled hairstyle looks great on those with a more angled face or sharper bone structure, to add a soft contrast," Natalia says, and luckily you can get this look no matter what your hair type. "Soft beach waves are so easy to achieve if you don't have a natural curl pattern. Take a large barrel tong and curl in alternating directions, starting away from your face and working in sections.”

30. Long Braids

Despite not looking a day over 30, actress Gabrielle is actually 50, frequently coming up in conversation as one of the most ageless celebrities out there. This particular look ensures she looks her best as it’s youthful and stylish and compliments her face shape. The taut nature of braids will help keep your skin looking tight and firm.

“This style is super versatile and the braids can be then styled to suit different face shapes. The key to maintaining this style is scalp care. Be gentle with your scalp, moisturise it daily and use natural products," Natalia tells us. 

If you have thick afro hair then you'll know that using an oil is a key step to moisturising your hair. Fable & Mane Holiroots Hair Oil - £32 | Cult Beauty  is packed with nourishing ingredients that will provide care from root to tip. 

What is the most youthful hairstyle fpr 

Overall, our experts agree that the most youthful hairstyle is a classic bob cut. Though it's up to the individual on which variation they get - based on what style best suits their face-shape. 

"The most flattering of all these styles is a short curly bob," says Jason Collier. He explains, "a common hair issue for women as they age is their hair starts to thin. Short, chin-length hair can add more volume to hair by concentrating it at one length and it also flatters any face shape. Curly hair also gives the appearance of youthful, healthy hair, that is incredibly vibrant and exuberant." 

Natalia Vera, Live True Colour Expert tells us, “The relaxed shoulder bob is a really manageable style, and a great way to add some youth into your look. This long bob can be easily maintained with regular trims to keep hair looking thick and full. Loose waves also help to further create the illusion of thicker hair while softly framing the face.”

So bobs seem to be the overall winner. It's important to remember that you should only try a style you are comfortable with and will be confident in. Try a style gradually rather than opting for a dramatic change and always ask your hairdresser for their opinion, they will recommend something that suits you most, which will make you look and feel your best.

We spoke to the following haircare experts:

Video of the Week

You're not the only one Googling ‘how to get rid of neck wrinkles’. The neck is one of those neglected areas that immediately gives the age game away, but horizontal creases, crinkles and crepey skin below the chin are a natural, unavoidable part of the ageing process.

"As we age, skin loses its elasticity, due to a drop in collagen production," explains Faye Purcell, Q+A's Skincare Expert & Development Chemist. "Posture and weight loss can also lead to sagging. Combined with the fact that our neck has fewer oil glands, this area of the skin is more vulnerable to dryness, sun damage, and over time, wrinkles." Let’s be clear - unless you’re going down the tweakment or plastic surgery route, nothing is going to get rid of neck wrinkles completely. Choosing dermal fillers, a thread lift or full neck lift are all perfectly justifiable and arguably more efficient ways of treating wrinkles across the neck - but for many of us, they may be too extreme and expensive. That’s where a good skincare regime comes in. 

Extend every product, from cleanser to skin toner, down your neck too, then follow with a targeted treatment. No topical cream is going to funnel volume back into deep creases the way an injectable will, but a solid skincare routine with the right active ingredients can help to prevent wrinkles and make creases look less obvious. Neck lines are totally normal, but if you’re self-conscious about yours that’s okay. There are ways to soften their appearance and delay new ones from forming. Here’s how to get rid of neck wrinkles, from simple lifestyle changes to the latest lifting creams and at-home treatments.

How to get rid of neck wrinkles:

1. Use a targeted neck cream

No topical product is going to magic away wrinkles, and conquering slack skin around the neck and jawline is no mean feat, but according to Dr Maryam Zamani, Oculoplastic Surgeon & Facial Aesthetics Doctor, and Founder of MZ Skin, skincare and lifestyle can absolutely support "graceful ageing".

"As we age, the skin cycle elongates, and it takes longer for the production of collagen, elastin and skin regrowth," she tells us. "Often the effects of volume loss appear cumulatively later in life and therefore we are trying to reverse the impact. It is hugely important to use good skincare as early as possible to minimise and prevent the skin changes we have control over.” 

Your regular face cream will impart moisture, providing a temporary plumping effect but to make a real dent in the wrinkles across your neck and decolletage, choose elasticity-boosting creams designed for this delicate area. If you're wondering how to get rid of neck wrinkles the simple way, this would be our suggestion. 

• StriVectin TL Advanced™ Tightening Plus Neck Cream - £49 | Boots

• Vichy Neovadiol Phytosculpt Tightening Face and Neck Cream - £32 | Boots

• Q+A 5-HTP Face & Neck Cream - £12 | Amazon

2. Sort smartphone sag

Whether you’re in the office or working from home, if you sit at a desk for eight hours a day, five days a week, pay attention to how you sit. Slouching and slumping increases the gravitational pull on your face, which will advance the onset of jowls, while glancing down towards a laptop, phone or tablet will shorten your neck muscles and lead to horizontal wrinkles across your neck. This is what professionals have dubbed ‘tech neck’. 

“A great way to prevent cases of tech neck is to be conscious of your posture when using technology,” advises Dr. Dev Patel, aesthetic doctor and founder of Perfect Skin Solutions. “Try using a laptop stand to elevate your device whilst at work and adjust your computer chair to the correct height to avoid subconsciously angling your neck to see the screen.

"Also try to hold electronic devices, such as your phone or tablet, upwards and in front of your face, rather than looking downwards. This will also benefit the health of your spine.” 

3. Tone with microcurrent

There are more high-tech ways that you can investigate when you're looking into how to get rid of neck wrinkles. Remember the ads for Slendertone, the pack that zaps your tummy muscles to tone them? Well, there are a host of new tools that do the same to your neck using microcurrent stimulation to re-educate muscles that have lost tone. 

“Microcurrent therapy is a type of treatment that uses low-level electrical currents to stimulate the muscles and tissues in the face,” explains Dr Maryam, who warns that the efficacy of microcurrent on sagging is not well established and requires further research. 

“I do not think microcurrent helps sagging skin long term,” she says, “however, any treatment that helps with lymphatic drainage and improved circulation can temporarily make the area look better.” 

Microcurrent has actually been around for hundreds of years. The first documented account dates back to 1748 when Swiss professor Jean Jallabert used a series of electric shocks to regenerate muscles in the paralyzed arm of a locksmith. Used across the neck and face, microcurrent stimulates the muscles and encourages collagen production. 

“I’ve made the Foreo Bear part of my nighttime routine,” says Beauty Editor, Stephanie Maylor. “You download the app and select the ‘workout’ you want, then just follow along with the movements in the video. It’s quick and easy, and doesn’t hurt one jot." 

Wrinkles aren’t going to disappear overnight - you’ll need to keep it up for 2 minutes per day for 30-60 days to see the full results.

• FOREO Bear Facial Toning Device - £319 | LOOKFANTASTIC

• NuFace Mini+ - £240 | CURRENTBODY

4. Wear sunscreen

Prevention is better than cure, and you may not need to consider how to get rid of neck wrinkles if you've kept up good habits. 

Recently, a shot of a woman’s neck went viral - originally published in The Journal of the European Academy of Dermatology and Venereology, it was used to demonstrate the importance of wearing sunscreen (if you haven’t seen it, google ‘woman sunscreen face and neck’). The 92 year old’s face, protected by an unwavering dedication to sunscreen is flawless - unblemished and taut. Her neck, however, wasn’t afforded the same due diligence, and appears crepey, slack and wrinkled. The take away? Using the best sunscreen for your face, with an SPF of at least 30, on your neck and decolletage will help keep wrinkles at bay. 

It might not have a smoothing effect on current lines and wrinkles but the act of applying sunscreen below the chin is proven to slow the breakdown of collagen and keep the skin looking younger for longer. 

Apply around ½ tsp of sunscreen to the face and neck as the last step in your morning regimen before makeup, and reapply every 2 hours if out in the sun. 

• Garnier Ambre Solaire Invisible Serum Super UV SPF50 - £14 | Boots

5. Don't forget to exfoliate

If your neck doesn't usually get a look in on your regular facial exfoliation, give it some love - it's important to slough dead skin from below the chin, too. 

"Dead skin cells make the skin look dull and dry," explains skincare expert and chemist Faye Purcell. Physical exfoliators with beads that scrub can be too harsh for the delicate skin across the neck and chest. 

Purcell recommends using a liquid or chemical exfoliant instead. "Use a gentle exfoliator containing acids such as glycolic, lactic or salicylic. Remember, chemical exfoliation can make your skin more sensitive to UV, so ensure you protect any exposed skin with SPF, including your neck."

• Liz Earle Smooth & Glow Exfoliating Tonic - £20 | Boots

6. Exercise your neck daily

Treating your neck to a daily workout has multiple benefits, including getting rid of neck wrinkles. By isolating and working each muscle, you can smooth lines and redefine your bone structure. 

Carme Farré is a Pilates teacher and founder of the FaceToned® method, an on-demand facial fitness programme. It works like an online gym - once you download the app, you can log on for live and on-demand workouts. 

"With FaceToned® you can achieve your best self by combining lotions – to improve the skin, exercises – the most important part of the method to tone and increase muscle volume, and massages – to increase blood circulation," explains Farré.  You can download the app on the Apple or Google app store, with a Facelift membership offering access to all content as well as live classes priced at £24.99 a month.            

Farré has a particular routine that works like a lower facelift, to tone the neck, cheeks and jowls. If you're thinking about how to get rid of neck wrinkles, make this routine a daily habit.

Carme Farré's neck toning technique - step by step:

• Before you begin, cleanse your skin and apply a serum to condition the skin and at the end, apply oil to massage.
• For the massage, I recommend using a Gua Sha or Face Roller as it helps to increase the blood circulation and improve the results of the exercises.
• Lengthen the neck upwards and bring the chin up slightly holding your collarbones with your hands, and slightly pulling down.
• Now bring the chin forward and slightly up to hold the top lip with lower teeth, then try to touch the tip of the nose with your lower lip.
• Now, lift up the corners of the mouth and pulse up and slightly down as if smiling for eight counts. Hold this position for eight counts and then relax. 
• Perform three times.

7. Try LED therapy

Once restricted to the salon, LED gadgets have hit the mainstream so you can treat skin from the comfort of your own home. These light therapy tools vary from handbag-sized wands to robotic-looking masks. 

The LED part stands for ‘light emitting diode’, and involves sending different wavelengths of light into the skin to alter cellular function. Many devices offer different light colours to target your skin’s specific needs. Blue light kills acne-causing bacteria to treat spots and blemishes, while yellow light targets hyperpigmentation and uneven skin tone. For neck wrinkles, choose red light, which stimulates the production of collagen and elastin to improve skin firmness and reduce wrinkles. 

"LED light therapy (notably red light LED) does have some anti-ageing effects on the skin, by encouraging the body to produce more collagen, thus improving skin health," says Dr. Patel. "Red LED light stimulates fibroblast growth factors and also reduces inflammation." 

Don't expect dramatic results, warns Dr. Patel. "Many devices, especially those for home use, will just not be powerful enough to deliver great results but used regularly, may still give benefit. In clinic we use both red light and near-infared light (NIR) in the form of Dermalux Triwave MD, for a more powerful anti-ageing result," he explains.

• Sensse Silhouette LED Neck Mask - £129.99 | Amazon

8. Master a massage

The way you apply products is a key part of how to get rid of neck wrinkles. Lifting your skin, toning your jawline and smoothing out neck wrinkles is as much to do with application as it is about ingredients. 

Apply your creams using upwards sweeping motions to encourage lift and keep your muscles strong. “Neck lines are a natural process of ageing, but using regular massage movements to work your skincare products in for a more efficacious delivery can help to reduce the depth of lines and wrinkles,” explains facialist and skincare expert, Michaella Bolder. Here she shares her special massage technique to help smooth the neck.

Michaella Bolder neck massage - step by step:

• After cleansing, apply a rich, nourishing moisturiser, neck cream or facial oil across your face and neck to perform the massage.
• Stretching the neck to one side and working with the opposite hand, slide underneath and along the jaw finishing around the back of the neck using a firm pressure. Take the hand off and place at the beginning again, repeating the same move 8-10 times on each side.
• Next bending the fingers, glide your finger knuckles down the sides of the neck at the same time finishing deep in the clavicle bone to stimulate the Lymphatic system. Repeat this move 10 times using a soft pressure.
• To finish, bend both your index and middle fingers. Using the opposite hand to the face side pinch your chin between the fingers and move across the jaw with a firm pressure slowly out to the ear lobe. Repeating 6-10 times on each side.

What causes a very wrinkled neck?

Neck wrinkles are also compounded by lifestyle choices - and these are the things you CAN control. Constantly looking down at our phones, tablets and laptops will speed up ageing below the chin.

Sagging jowls, marionette lines (the vertical creases that run from the corners of the mouth down to the chin), and horizontal wrinkles across the neck could be down to overzealous screen time. 

"The skin on our neck is particularly delicate and is constantly fighting against gravity as we move our heads around in daily life," explains aesthetician Kimberley Medd, who is Head of Clinic at online beauty retailer Face The Future. 

It’s not just the irresistible effect of gravity that causes a wrinkly neck. Lower oestrogen levels and the cumulative effect of years of sun exposure deplete collagen, affecting the skin’s bounce and elasticity. Too much sugar, smoking, yo-yo dieting and regular jogging (AKA ‘runner’s face’) are also said to have a negative impact on jawline and neck definition.

"There are two types of neck wrinkles," explains Medd, "horizontal and vertical. Vertical neck creases are usually caused by sleeping in certain positions for a long period of time and are mostly genetic, while horizontal creases usually occur from a myriad of factors including loss of collagen production, sun and environmental damage, and keeping the neck flexed forwards for long periods of time, for example, while looking at your phone, or laptop screen."

What age do neck wrinkles start?

“Neck wrinkles and bands typically begin to develop in our 20s and 30s, as active collagen production ceases and current levels begin to deplete,” says Dr. Patel. 

“Neck wrinkles often appear before we start to notice them on our faces, due to how often we move our necks. They’re becoming increasingly common in younger people in today’s society, owing to how ingrained mobile phones and computer screens are in our lives.”

We spoke to the following skincare experts:

Video of the Week

Ever wondered what does retinol do for your skin? You're not alone. 

Retinol is a word that tends to incite either excitement or confusion depending on who you’re chatting to. Sometimes, it’s both. But is it really worth the hype? A lot of the doubts around retinol stems from the fact that it tends to be used as an umbrella term for the family of ingredients it’s part of called retinoids.  

“Retinoids are all derivatives of vitamin A, and the difference between them relates to their molecular structure,” says Dr Jo Mennie, Aesthetic Practitioner at Dr David Jack Clinic and Get Harley. “They can all stimulate the skin very differently, with different efficacy and even different side effects,” adds Dr Tiina Meder, Cosmetic Dermatologist at Get Harley and Founder of Meder. Some of the most common side effects of Retoinoids are dry, peeling skin, so make sure you've loaded up on the best moisturisers for skin to soften and soothe. 

Retinol vs Retinoid: What's the difference?

Think of retinoids like apples. Apples are the category, just like retinoids, and there are different types within them. The types of retinoids include retinoic acid, retinal, retinol and retinol esters, just like types of apples include Granny Smith, Braeburn and Pink Lady.

Retinoic acid is the strongest of all forms of retinoid. It’s high-strength and is only available via prescription. It’s punchy and can lead to dryness and flaking. It was traditionally (and still is) used to treat acne and get rid of acne scars, but experts started to notice improvements in lines and wrinkles as a welcome bonus. 

All other forms of retinoids are considered to be cosmetic ingredients and can be purchased without a prescription. The closest to retinoic acid is retinaldehyde (also called retinal), which converts back to retinoic acid in the skin in one step. It works fast, shouldn’t cause irritation and has antibacterial properties too. Next is retinol, which is two steps away from retinoic acid and therefore converts twice on the skin before it gets there. It’s effective but is known to cause irritation. Finally, there are retinyl esters like retinyl palmitate. These are retinoids mixed with another ingredient, which makes them weaker and a good starting point for beginners. 

Slightly confusingly, there is also a newer form of retinoid which sits slightly outside the hierarchy we’ve just outlined. These are retinoic acid esters (not to be confused with retinol esters) and work differently from the others as they bind directly to receptors in the skin instead of converting to retinoic acid. 

What does retinol do for your skin?

Retinol will more than earn its place in your bathroom cabinet with a number of benefits for the skin, most notably preventing wrinkles. 

“When applied to the skin, retinol is converted to retinoic acid, the molecule that signals skin cells to produce proteins such as collagen,” Daniel Issacs, Director of Research at Medki8. “This increase in retinoic acid both boosts and preserves collagen levels within the skin for a plump, youthful complexion.” 

This is especially welcome as we age, as the levels of collagen in our skin start to deplete from the ages of 20-30. Without this important scaffolding to give our skin bounce, it can become slack with fine lines and wrinkles forming. 

“Vitamin A can also boost the regenerative cycle of skin cells and hinder the formation of excess melanin to leave skin looking smooth and even-toned,” Daniel continues. An uneven complexion peppered with age spots can be one of the biggest giveaways of your age, but by speeding up the rate at which your skin rids itself of old, redundant cells, you can make any marks scarce faster. This makes it a great, straightforward treatment if you're wondering how to get rid of liver spots and pigmentation.

The increase in cell turnover also has an impact on blemishes. Spots form when old skin cells and oil block a pore. So, with these dead skin cells no longer hanging around and outstaying their welcome, the chances of clogged pores are far lower. Simply put, using retinol is like rebooting your complexion.

What are the benefits of Retinol?

• Smoothes and brightens skin. Our skin is always busy behind the scenes replacing the older skin cells on the surface of our complexion with the shiny new ones beneath. As we age, this process no longer happens quite as efficiently – a bit like a merry-go-round that’s slowing. Retinol speeds the process back up, so skin looks glowier and feels softer. 
• Reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. By encouraging the skin to create more collagen, retinol plumps fine lines and wrinkles. Skin becomes bouncier and less slack. 
• Fade hyperpigmentation. By whisking away old, marked skin cells, retinol can reduce the appearance of dark marks like sun spots and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (blemishes left behind by spots).
• Banish blemishes and congestion. Removing old skin cells from the equation means pores are less likely to become clogged. Retinal also boasts antibacterial properties. 

What are the negative side effects of retinol?

There are three side effects you may experience when using retinol - initial irritation, a break-out of spots and increased sensitivity to sunlight.

Heard a rumour that retinol can give you red and flaky skin? There is truth in the murmurings. “When you start using retinoids there is a 4-week period of adjustment that the skin goes through,” says Jo. “This process is called Retinization. What that translates as is the potential for redness, feelings of tingling or itching on the skin, or dryness and scaling.” 

The good news is that firstly, it shouldn’t last for too long, and secondly, this won’t happen to everyone that uses retinol. Everyone’s skin is different, and how it reacts will depend on things like your skin type and age. Equally, the weaker the retinoid product you use, the less chance of your skin throwing a hissy fit.

The phrase is problematic, but the term skin purging is used to describe occasions when your skin breaks out as a result of starting to use a new ingredient (like retinol). “Some users can experience a purging when introducing new active ingredients into their routine,” explains Daniel. “This can be common with retinoids as they increase skin cell turnover. This increase can cause debris trapped deep in existing clogged pores to quickly rise to the surface and appear as new spots.” 

So far, not so ideal – but wait for it. “Purging is actually a good thing,” continues Daniel, “as it shows that your skin cells are regenerating quicker, pushing out any congestion and ultimately leading to a smoother-looking, blemish-free complexion in the long run. A purge is temporary but can last up to 6-8 weeks.” 

If the potential for breakouts is putting you off the idea of retinol, don’t let it. Remember, retinoic acid was originally used in the treatment of acne, and retinal has antibacterial properties which make it great for blemish-busting. Going slow will help keep the potential for breakouts to a minimum. “To reduce the chances of purging, we recommend phasing new products into regimes slowly,” adds Daniel. 

When our skin is exposed to the sun, it creates extra melanin (the pigment that gives our skin its colour) as a sort of natural protection. It’s essentially why you get a tan. The problem comes when the skin malfunctions and makes more melanin than is needed, resulting in darker patches like age spots. And the laxer you are about sun protection, the more likely these are to form. 

Add retinol to the mix, and the risk rises even higher. “Retinol and its derivatives are known photo sensitisers able to increase the sun’s sensitivity to ultraviolet rays,” says Tiina. “After a few weeks of use, skin can become prone to hyperpigmentation. If you are using retinol-based products it is a good idea to increase sun protection to the absolute maximum and use 50+ sunscreens with UVA protection every time you go outdoors, no matter how much time you’re spending in the sun.” 

Stock up on the best sunscreen for your face, and get diligent about applying in the morning and re-applying. 

How do you know if retinol is working?

Patience really is a virtue when it comes to waiting for your retinol to work, but you could see positive results within 3-6 months of using it.

“Any skincare product takes time to see the effects,” says Dr Jo. “With retinol in the first month, you may experience sensitivity or dryness. However, by 6 months you should be able to see visible improvements in the skin’s appearance.” 

That’s not to say you might not see results before then, but don’t be disheartened if you’re not spotting changes by the end of week one. 

Interestingly though, Dr Tiina Meder makes a case for not continuing to use retinol once you’re seeing results. “Be ready for a long course of treatment, but not too long,” she advises. “Researchers found that retinol acids progressively and you can see positive effects in 18-20 weeks of use. But it doesn’t improve results after weeks 20 and 21, and instead could even provoke more side effects because of the prolonged use.” 

Just be sure to check in with your skin regularly, and if it’s not looking or feeling good, and your skincare no longer seems to be performing, then make a change. 

How to use retinol 

1. Only use at night

Retinol works best at night for a couple of key reasons. Firstly, it’s the vampire of the skincare sphere and doesn’t take well to being exposed to light. 

“Most retinoids cannot be used in the day as they are not photostable,” says Daniel Issacs. “This means that their effects will be deactivated when exposed to sunlight.” 

This is why you'll often find the ingredient in the best night cream. The second reason is that by using retinol as an evening-only product you're giving it the maximum opportunity to work its magic without interruption. It will be able to work more efficiently if it’s not under siege from daytime stressors like pollution.

2. Apply to clean skin

Cleansing is the bedrock of any good skincare routine. So, if you’re not washing your face properly then anything you apply afterwards is ultimately a waste of time. 

Your retinol won’t be able to penetrate the skin as effectively if it has to battle through a barrage of daily grime in order to get there. Skin should be dry, not damp, too. 

“It’s always better to apply retinol-based products to dry skin and avoid layering with water-based products,” advises Tiina. “This helps to minimise irritation and sensitisation.”

3. Pare back other active ingredients

You may want to step away from your best Vitamin C serum while you're introducing in retinol. Not all active ingredients play nicely with retinol, and mixing the wrong cocktail of actives can at best cancel out any benefits, and at worst lead to irritation. 

That means unless your skin is very hardy, and you’re a long-time user of retinol, exfoliating acids are temporarily off the menu. “Combining retinol-based products with acid-based products is a bad idea,” explains Tiina. “Both ingredients are powerful and speed up the skin renewal process, so can irritate the skin and would be damaging for the skin barrier.” 

If you can’t quite part with your alpha or beta-hydroxy acids, consider using them on alternating days to your retinol. This way you’ll be able to reap the benefits of both without vexing your complexion.

4. Use SPF the next day

“Be sure to use sunscreen all the time while using retinol-based products, because retinol increases skin sensitivity to ultraviolet rays,” says Dr Tiina Meder. This is because retinol has brought all of that lovely new skin to the surface, which is more susceptible to damage and hyperpigmentation. 

The SPF in your makeup won’t be enough to properly protect your skin and you should really be using a dedicated sunscreen of at least SPF30.  

5. Introduce slowly

Throwing the kitchen sink at your complexion is never a good idea. To get the most from your retinol product, ease in rather than diving in. 

“Baby steps are a good idea when you’re starting,” says Dr Tiina. “Use a small amount once a day and start with the application just three days a week.” From there, if your skin is happy and tolerating the retinol well, you can start to slowly increase to everyday use.  

Our top retinol picks

• Medik8 Crystal Retinal 1 Stable Retinal Night Serum Vitamin A, £45 | Medki8

• Skin Rocks Retinoid 2 Vitamin A Face Serum, £75 | Space NK

• Elf Youth Boosting Advanced Night Retinoid Serum, £22 | Beauty Bay

• StriVectin Advanced Retinol Multi-Correct Eye Cream, £68 | Boots

• Beauty Pie Super Retinol Anti-Aging Hand Treatment, £12.50 for members | Beauty Pie

Is it good to use retinol every day?

Cosmetic ingredients like retinol rely on regular and consistent use to see results, but that doesn’t mean you need to use them every single day. 

“This really depends on you as an individual, which is why consultation with a doctor during your retinol journey is helpful,” explains Jo. “For some people, everyday retinol use can work well for their skin, while for others I have recommended regimes including it every other day to once a week. 

"The best advice is to start slow. Build up gradually starting once a week and moving up in frequency every few weeks. If you experience irritation, dryness or scaly patches then cut back on the frequency.” 

Think of it like doing Couch to 5k. If you decide to run the entire distance on day one it’s going to be a much less comfortable experience than if you built up following the programme. Equally, not everyone wants or needs to exercise every day to keep their body healthy. 

Should you moisturise after using retinol?

Yes, you should always follow your retinol application with some mosituriser - no matter your skin type. This is because it helps to keep the skin hydrated.

“Moisturiser should be incorporated into your routine when using retinoids, owing to the potential for the skin to become dry,” says Dr Jo Mennie. “People with particularly sensitive or dry skin can even apply their moisturiser before their retinoid product.” This will create a bit of a buffer, and you could even go a step further and apply moisturiser on top too – like a retinol sandwich. 

If you’re at the opposite end of the skin spectrum with oily skin or don’t like the feeling of too many products on your skin, Dr Jo has an alternative for that too. “Wait 20 minutes after your retinol product and apply your night moisturiser of choice,” she advises. 

We spoke to the following beauty experts: 

Video of the Week

The best night cream will supercharge your beauty sleep. More than just your average moisturiser, these overnight formulas are designed to support the skin’s nocturnal repair process so you wake up to healthy, hydrated skin in the morning. 

A solid skincare routine should include a good cleanser, SPF protection using one of the best sunscreens for your face, a trusty facial oil and moisturiser, and the best primer to keep your makeup in place all day. But what about night cream? Do you even need a sleep-specific formula, or will the best moisturisers for skin be enough to support skin overnight?  Your skin behaves differently from day to night, and your face cream should be tailored towards its changing needs, beyond simply adding moisture. During the day, your skin is focused on defence, protecting itself from UV exposure, pollution and other environmental aggressors. As we sleep, it’s all about rest and renewal, and the best night cream will maximise your beauty sleep and support the skin’s natural repair process. 

"The first thing you should consider when looking for a night cream is your skin type, needs and concerns then you can start to consider certain ingredients that will address these concerns," explains Dr Sonia Khorana, Clinical Dermatology GP and Expert for Olay. "One popular ingredient that works well in a night cream is Retinol, as it increases surface cell renewal by working with the skin’s natural rejuvenation process while you sleep – which is more active at night than during day." Whether you want to max out on moisture or smooth wrinkles, our selection of the best night creams will improve skin health and enhance its appearance as you sleep so you wake up to brighter, smoother, more radiant skin by morning. 

What to consider when looking for the best night cream

• Star rating: Our in-house star-rating system is based on peer reviews. They’ve tried and tested the best night creams and awarded stars based on factors such as formula, active ingredients, customer feedback, awards and value for money. Products that have received a 5 star status are rare and considered exceptional, going above and beyond our reviewer’s expectations.
• Active ingredients: The ingredients in a night cream should enhance the skin’s own repair process to improve its overall health and appearance. The best night serums contain potent active ingredients, such as antioxidants, peptides and even gentle skincare acids that help to speed up skin renewal. Retinol is one of the most effective actives designed for evening application, supporting the skin’s repair process and stimulating collagen production.
• Cruelty-free: More and more beauty brands have realised that testing on animals is not a humane or sustainable practice. We’re keen to select products from brands that follow this ethos - such as Skin Proud, Lumene, Green People and Medik8. Some of the other brands included cannot claim the cruelty-free certfication as they are sold in regions where governments still mandate animal testing.
• Packaging: Night creams usually come in tubs or jars so you can scoop out just the right amount for the area you need. It also means you can ensure every last drop of cream is used, as opposed to squeeze bottles that always retain some product. Sustainability is a serious concern too - we'll always strive to include products that are at least in part recyclable. 

Which is the best night cream for glowing skin?

The skin barrier is crucial to healthy, smooth, comfortable-feeling skin. If this is compromised then you may start to notice your skin becomes dry, sensitive and rough. This cream piles on the hydration with superstar skin quencher, Hyaluronic acid, as well as ceramides, which help repair the skin barrier. The result? It has a visible effect on fine lines, wrinkles, dryness, dullness and loss of firmness. 

This night cream has made such a noticeable improvement to my skin. f you’ve been turned off by heavy, occlusive moisturisers in the past, this will be the formula to get you back on the night cream wagon. It is light and springy, more like a gel than a traditional cream, and has a spa-like scent that really puts your mind in the sleep zone. In a couple of weeks, it had taken my dry skin from flaky and rough to smooth and springy. That has a lot to do with the MemoryBounce Technology, which not only prevents the cream from transferring on to your pillow (because who wants to waste good product?!) but also locks in all the skincare you’ve applied before so your skin is maxed out on moisture.

Retinol absorbs deep into the skin and works at a cellular level to increase elastin and collagen production, creating a smoother, plumped-up effect. It also unclogs pores and revs up cell turnover to fade pigmentation and brighten the complexion. Niacinamide is an ingredient that plays really well with retinol, landing a one-two punch against dull skin and fine lines. It’s a beautiful night cream to apply - silky and sweet-smelling - with visible results, reducing wrinkles in 10 nights.

Senior Beauty Editor Rhiannon Derbyshire loves this cream. Here are her thoughts. “We all know and love retinol for its plumping, skin-refining, and wrinkle-busting abilities, but it comes with the downside of dryness and sensitivity. This isn't the case with this night cream. That's thanks to its blending with skin-soothing Niacinamide plus Hyaluronic Acid and Glycerin, which balances out any potential fall-out from the potent retinol. I always wake up with smooth, glowing skin after using this, and my sensitive skin never negatively reacts to it. I also love the airless pump dispenser, which keeps the ingredients airtight - which is essential when it comes to active ingredients. The push-applicator is pretty pleasing too - one press gives the perfect dose, every time.”

Stress isn’t just bad for your mind, it will take its toll on skin too, and accelerate the ageing process. Coming to the rescue (and tackling the outward effects of stress on the skin) is smart drone technology, which admittedly sounds like some sort of Star Wars plot device. In this dream cream, it’s used with peptides to target specific areas of the face, where stress shows the most. Peptides are made of amino acid chains, and act like little messengers, signalling to skin cells to carry out certain functions, like producing more collagen and elastin, thereby smoothing deep wrinkles. The cutting edge technology clearly works - Overnight Matrix scored a perfect 100% in Independent User Trials. All 30 people agreed the product dramatically improved the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles over 4 weeks.

“If you’ve ever been lucky enough to visit the Elemis spa, or even check-in for a pampering Elemis facial, you’ll know how divine the products smell,” says Sarah Cooper-White, Beauty Director. “This is amazing and I LOVE the smell. It's a luxurious cream, with a luxurious price tag to match, but the formula certainly feels justifiably opulent. It glazes over skin with a silky-softness that makes you want to repeatedly stroke your face. I call this my holiday in a jar cream - it gives a relaxed, rested look to my skin, even when I feel anything but.”

Retinol is the anti-ageing ingredient recommended by dermatologists. Why? It’s ability to rev up collagen production to help smooth fine lines and wrinkles. It also helps to optimise cell turnover, making it the perfect ingredient to take advantage of the skin’s overnight renewal process. This in turn means that skin looks smoother in texture and tone, with a healthy glow. 

“Retinol helps to lessen the signs of ageing and brighten your skin to improve your complexion,” explains dermatologist Dr Sonia Khorana. “Another great ingredient to look for is Niacinamide (Vitamin B3) as this can help improve the skin’s protective barrier and works to prevent water loss, by increasing the skin’s ability to maintain hydration. Olay Retinol24 night cream contains these powerful ingredients, so makes a great choice for a night cream.”

I wholeheartedly agree. I don’t know if it’s because I grew up seeing bottles of Olay (or Oil of Ulay as it was known back then) on my mother’s dressing table, but it’s always a brand I trust. If you don’t like the sometimes-heavy, tacky feel of a rich night cream, Regnerist Retinol 24’s quick-to-absorb formula will be a welcome change. It leaves the skin with a velvety, matte texture, as if you’ve got nothing on. My skin feels  SO much softer. 

If you want more bang for your beauty buck, this two-in-oner is a bedtime hero. Apply a light layer as the last step of your routine and you’ve got a light and silky night cream. Or use as a treatment mask when skin feels dry and tight. Slather on a generous layer across the face, sit back and relax for 15 minutes then rinse off. It’s brimming with antioxidants to help reinforce the skin barrier and protect cells from ageing free radical damage. 

First of all, this looks and feels a lot more expensive than the price suggests. I really rate Skin Proud products. This one smells like yoghurt, or a Cupcake Doll (if anyone remembers those?), so might not be everyone’s cup of tea. As a night cream, it’s beautifully light but still does an impressive job of quenching skin so everything looks plump, fresh and bouncy by morning. The mask aspect is where this comes into its own for me. When my skin looks particularly dull and lifeless, a quick 15 minute sesh under a thick layer really livens everything up.

Skin cell turnover speeds up at night, which is why, if you have dull, rough, uneven skin, it’s the perfect time to incorporate gentle exfoliants. Here, pineapple extract is used to break down the bonds that hold on to dead skin cells to refine pores, gradually reduce pigmentation and reveal younger-looking skin. It’s not all slough, slough, slough though. Nourishing Rosehip oil helps skin regenerate and reduce the appearance of wrinkles. It’s this all-rounder hero status that has helped Fruitful Nights rack up almost 500 5* reviews. 

“If you’re someone with combination or oily skin, I would 100% recommend this,” says Beauty Editor, Jess Beech. “It has a beautiful velvety texture that spreads easily over the face so you can use it sparingly - better for your skin and wallet! My skin looks more refined and even in tone, without the slightest inkling of feeling stripped or tight.”

If you really want to get the most of your beauty sleep, look no further than Kiehl’s iconic Midnight Recovery range. This light-and-airy whipped cream is infused with Omega-rich fatty acids that help to support the skin barrier, the layer responsible for keeping moisture locked in (hello plump, dewy skin), and irritants locked out. By reinforcing the lipid barrier, this night cream targets fine lines and dull skin, visibly plumping skin in seven days. 

Cloud by name, cloud by nature - it is a dreamy blue, fluffy whip that melts into skin like cumulus droplets. It is a spa in a jar cream, with the most dreamy herbal, lavender fragrance. Because of the airy texture, it is on the lighter side of the night cream spectrum so if your skin is chronically dry and tight, this may not be enough to quench your skin's appetite for hydration. For me, it does a solid job of smoothing my skin so it looks brighter by morning.

Some night creams target specific skin concerns, whether that’s lack of firmness, wrinkles or a spot of pigmentation, but this dream cream does it all. How? A combination of copper peptides (clever skin messengers) and Nordic biotechnology ingredients, such as antioxidant lingonberry cells and arctic spring water, work with the skin’s sleep cycle to firm, smooth and boost brightness.

Beauty Director, Sarah always recommends it. “I love this bouncy cream for plumping up my skin overnight. It literally feels like a drink of water for your complexion - mine sucks it up leaving it feeling smooth and replenished. Plus it's packed full of hardy nordic ingredients like lingonberries and cloudberries to increase radiance and smooth lines and wrinkles.”

Medik8 takes a three-pronged approach to healthy, youthful skin - their high-end formulations revolve around the core pillars of vitamin C, sun protection and vitamin A (aka retinol). This night cream acts like a hug for skin post-retinol, counteracting any of the drying side effects. Ceramides help to strengthen the skin barrier - think of them as the mortar holding the ‘bricks’ of the moisture barrier together. Use this night cream as a ‘top coat’ after your evening retinol to optimise results while leaving skin pillow-soft.

“This is designed to be used alongside retinol products, to prevent skin drying out, but I often just use it on its own, for my 'nights off' active ingredients,” explains Senior Beauty Editor Rhiannon. “It's a nice nourishing cream that helps to keep my sensitive skin balanced and content. It includes a cocktail of peptides and ceramides to boost hydration, and - crucially, it's rich without feeling too heavy. It's just a great all-rounder.”

Coenzyme Q10 is a nutrient that occurs naturally within the body, credited with boosting energy levels. Its collagen and elastin-producing properties help smooth lines and wrinkles. As an antioxidant, it helps protect skin cells from environmental damage thereby slowing the ageing process, but supplies diminish meaning the skin’s protective mechanisms are weakened. This night cream helps support the skin’s defences and leaves skin feeling firmer. 

The online reviews are impressive. As one customer said, “It's fantastic stuff and all the more so because it's so cheap. [...] The richer night cream is good for me in the cold months as my skin gets really dry. I've been using it for a few weeks and I can see the difference: glowing skin, fine lines around my eyes have gone, skin looks a little firmer. [...] Well done Boots. This is the best cream of yours I've ever used.”

At what age should you start using night cream?

When it comes to beauty, the old adage usually rings true - prevention is always better than cure. With SPF, the best sunscreen will protect against lines, wrinkles and pigmentation. But what about night cream? 

“Everyone should start using night creams as early as their 20s, as this is when skin’s collagen production starts to decline,” says Dr Sonia. “This process can then be seen through skin dullness and fine lines. Adding a night cream to your routine is a great way to help prevent these concerns. Prevention is better than cure, so the earlier you start taking care of your skin, the better.”

What order should you put your night cream on?

Whatever you put on your skin first will penetrate the deepest so it’s important to apply your skincare in the right order. Generally speaking, that means putting your night cream on last - as you should start with the lightest formulations and end with the richest concoctions. 

“Night cream should be applied at the end of your skincare routine,” advises dermatologist Dr Sonia Khorana. “You should cleanse your skin first, then add your eye cream and serums, and lastly, apply your night cream moisturiser.”

So how much cream should we be scooping out every night? “Apply a pea size amount of night cream to the face and neck. A little does go a long way,” says Dr Sonia. “If your night cream contains retinol, start using it a few times a week and increase as you learn how your skin tolerates it.‌ 

"A great way of doing this is with the latest skincare trend, Skin Cycling, which focuses on building in those needed recovery nights after exfoliation and using a retinoid. The key is consistency and not overdoing it with your skincare routine.”

Looking for more product recommendations? Check out our guides to the best bath oils, the best long-lasting perfumes, and the best red lipsticks too. If you;re short on time, check out our roundup of the best five-minute face masks. 

We spoke to the following beauty experts:

Video of the Week

Finding the best red lipstick shades to suit you can feel like a daunting task, but once you know what to look for, you’ll find your perfect match in no time.

But where to begin? Finding the best red lipstick shades can be as much of a minefield as a foundation shade finder, with countless shades available. According to Global Senior Artist for MAC Cosmetics Dominic Skinner, a makeup artist with years of experience and judge on BBC’s Glow Up, there’s a simple trick to finding your perfect shade. "The interesting thing about red lipsticks is that each one has a subtle undertone, which can vary from pinkish to golden to even blue. It’s these undertones that you need to look at - not just the red colour." Skinner continues, "This is why, if you are someone who has always said, ‘red doesn’t suit me’ - it’s probably because the undertone hasn’t worked in line with your own undertone."

So it's a common beauty myth that red lipsticks aren't for anyone - as there really is a red to suit everyone. It’s just about the tone, not necessarily the shade. In our list, we’ve picked a multitude of different tones which will work on all skin undertones, making them a perfect addition to your autumn make up routine. A good way of finding out your skin’s undertone is to look at your veins - if they’re blue or purple, you’re cool, if they look green, you’re warm. If you’re somewhere in the middle, you’re neutral, and can wear pretty much any shade - lucky you! 

What to consider when looking for the best red lipstick shades:

• Star rating: Our in-house star-rating system is based on peer reviews. They’ve tried and tested the best red lipstick shades and awarded stars based on factors such as product quality, ease of use, customer feedback, awards and value for money. Products that have received a 5-star status are rare and considered exceptional, going above and beyond our reviewer’s expectations.
• Finish: You can buy the best red lipstick shade in lots of different finishes - long-wearing mattes, high-shine glosses or sheer stains. Generally, we tend to find mattes look brighter and are more long-wearing, so most of the options on this list are matte unless stated otherwise. 
• Packaging & formula: We've only picked red lipsticks that are easy to apply, will sit comfortably on lips and won't dry them out. There's nothing worse than lipstick that vanishes after 20 minutes of wear, so we've picked hard-working, long-lasting colours for this list to, for the ultimate all-day wear. If you're wondering how often to replace makeup, the more airtight the packaging, the longer it will last. We've picked lipsticks with smart, safe packaging to help your red lipstick shades last as long as possible. 
• Cruelty-free: More and more beauty brands have realised that testing on animals is not a humane or sustainable practice. We’re keen to select products from brands that follow this ethos.

The best red lipstick shades for every complexion

One study found that 78% of UK women feel more confident when they wear lipstick, so not only will the best red lipstick shades perk up your face, they could lift your mood too. 

The best overall red was a hotly contested debate amongst the beauty team, but we all eventually agreed that this was the one that suited us all and which also had the MUA seal of approval - via makeup artist Ruby Hammer - who also picked it as one of her all-time favourites. A very close second was MAC Ruby Woo, which is further below. It's a matte, long-wearing formula in a vibrant, true-red tone. It's also available in a liquid formulation - which is even more long-lasting. 

Beauty Director Sarah Cooper-White always recommends this as one of the best red lipstick shades in her collection. "It is my go-to party shade. It’s a true red that suits everyone. The colour payoff is absolutely unbeatable - one swipe and you’re good to go - and the 10-hour staying power means I don’t have to constantly check if it’s smudged or in need of a touch-up."

Maybelline is one of the true heroes of the high street make-up world. Many of their products easily rival those at 4 times the price - their undereye concealer and mascara range are especially worth noting. This lipstick, for me, is the one product you should try if you're looking to find your best red lipstick shades, especially if long-lasting formulas are a priority. Their Superstay lipstick collection is designed to last, promising 16 hours of wear, and is available in 35 gorgeous shades. Our pick would be 'Individualist' for a crowd-pleasing bright red, but 'Pioneer' and 'Innovator' are slightly darker, blue-toned options if that's your preference. They also have a 'vinyl' finish available, if mattes aren't your thing. 

Anyone who knows me knows how passionate I am about this particular lipstick. I wear a red lipstick pretty much every day - I don't feel like myself without one on, so I need one that'll last all day. You'd be amazed how many expensive brands promise this, only to have the colour vanish by lunchtime. This is the only one that really holds up its promise of 16 hours of wear. 

I've recommended it to countless people, and I always get an enthusiastic text a few days later, listing all the meals, drinks and events the colour has lasted through. If I had to wear one red lipstick for life, it'd be this one. 

Mac lipsticks are industry leaders for a reason - they have the MUA seal of approval, give impressive staying power and there is - truly - a shade for everyone. If you have pale skin, their famous 'Ruby Woo' shade might be a bit draining, but Lady Danger is brighter, with a hit of orange to add vibrance to skin tones. It'll also work well on darker skin tones - really standing out. It's also got an average rating of 4.5 stars on Amazon - which is no mean feat for those tricky-to-pick red lipsticks.

Beauty Editor Jess Beech is particularly passionate about Lady Danger. "There’s something about a red lip that always leaves me feeling a little bit inferior. I’m not amazing at application (with red, those wobbly lines really show) and I’m always nervous it’ll smudge during the day. The shade can feel too bold and grown-up for me too, which is why if I am going to brave a red lip it’s always Mac Lady Danger." 

She continues, "The shade has the slightest hint of orange, which makes it less of a true red, and helps to perk up my sallow-toned complexion. It dries pretty quickly, so you do need to be speedy with application (less time to overthink) but once it’s on, it won’t budge."

Ruby Woo is arguably MAC's most iconic shade, so much so that it's available as a high-shine finish, a lip pencil and a liquid formulation, meaning there's an option for all preferences. Dominic Skinner cites it as his favourite, explaining that it's, "the ultimate classic Hollywood red." We're inclined to agree - plus, the blue tones work some complexion-making, helping the whites of your eyes look clearer, and your teeth look whiter. This is one of the best red lipstick shades for an iconic, bold colour.

On testing, I found this to apply comfortably, give an impressive colour payoff with just one swipe, and lasted impressively well. If you re-apply and wear it all day, it can start to feel a little bit drying towards the end of the day, so if you're prone to chapped lips, take that into consideration. You may prefer to swap to the non-matte versions, which give the same colour payoff with less of the dryness. 

Warm red works well on cool-toned skin, which can be of any shade - you can be very pale or dark-skinned and still be cool-toned. This warm, brick shade will help enliven cool undertones, adding some warmth to your complexion. It's also got a slight shimmer to it - which may sound scary, but we promise it's very wearable! Think of it as a cross between lipstick and a gloss - a high-shine, flattering colour, just in a solid formulation. The non-matte formula means it's less drying, and it's also blended with Hyaluronic Acid and Vitamin E to soothe chapped lips. 

On testing, we loved how it added instant 'zing' to complexions, and it felt soft and comfortable on lips, unlike some of the matte options we tested. One enthusiastic LookFantastic reviewer agrees. "My first time trying a Bobbi Brown lipstick so it was a bit of a gamble to order online. But I was pleasantly surprised with how perfect it is. Super creamy and pigmented. This shade is a warm rusty hue and is an easy 'everyday' colour. I usually tap it on and have a sheer wash of colour. Very happy with my purchase!"

If bold, bright reds aren't your thing, consider some darker tones, like this deep red shade. To stop it from looking severe, avoid full-blown mattes, as they can look unflattering. This is a really soft matte formula, so you get the colour payoff without the severity (or dryness!). 

Beauty Editor Stephanie Maylor is a huge fan. "This is a relatively new launch but it's already made its way into my lipstick rotation. The formula feels almost weightless, and a lot more expensive than £8." She continues, "I feel good in this slightly deeper brick red shade - to me, it just feels a bit cooler than a classic pillarbox red. The buttery ingredients pad out fine lines and feel really quenching, and a matte colour that doesn’t crack or pill is hard to find, especially one with change from a tenner."

Still feeling intimidated by reds? Start with a less blocky colour and opt for a sheer balm formula instead. This option is very wearable and combines lip care with colour. It's blended with a mix of natural oils and cocoa butter to deeply nourish, so it's also one of the best red lipstick shades if you're prone to chapped lips. Ruby Hammer specifically designed it to make it a wearable, everyday red. "My top tip for starting to wear reds when you're not feeling confident is to opt for a sheer colour. You can apply the red and then use your fingers or a brush to pat and smooth out the edges. You can build it up as you feel more confident."

Beauty Editor Jess Beech is a fan of this crayon. "I always recommend this to people who are just as cautious of reds as I am. It gives a lovely wash of colour without looking too out there, and I love that it's so hydrating too."

Satin lipsticks are a great go-between for mattes and shine, so they're a great place to start if this your first venture to finding your best red lipstick shades. Max Factor's offering is available in 29 shades but Tangerine tipped the others to the top spot, thanks to the joy-sparking, zingy red tone. The formula is also incredibly soothing on lips, and won't dry out your pout as much as many of the other reds on the market. It's blended with Vitamin E and Avocado oil so it feels really comfortable on lips all day long.

Beauty Editor Stephanie Maylor particularly enjoys this shade. She says, "in the sunnier months I like a brighter, orange-tinted red and this is a great one at a fantastic price point. I love the gold packaging too, which makes it feel luxe."

L'Oreal Paris' Color Riche lipsticks are industry classics but this newer, slimmer lipstick in their collection really caught our eye. It means you can have better control when you're applying the colour, and it slots nicely into compact handbags. The blue-toned shade 'Rouge Avant-Garde' works beautifully on warm skin tones, to balance things out.

I love this lipstick. As a red lip connoisseur, it's a big deal that this is one of my current favourites - I've tried them all! It's matte without feeling too dry, and I really like the slim bullet which gives a really precise application. I keep it in my handbag, and it instantly improves my outfit - and mood.

You don't have to spend a lot of money to try the best red lipstick shades - this bargain buy gives you change from a fiver. It's available in 10 shades so you can experiment with a few different tones without breaking the bank. It's in that great, wearable satin texture too. We picked 'cherry' as a favourite - a jammy, berry red.

On testing, we were really impressed with the colour and the ease of application. Ok, so maybe it's not the most vibrant colour, but if you're looking for an everyday, crowd-pleasing red, then this is a brilliant option. They have a cool-toned and a warm-toned option, so there's one to suit all. 

On the other hand, if you do have the budget for a bigger spend, this joyful option is one of our fanciest favourites. This lipstick had us at first glance - it has a gorgeous gold tube that feels pleasingly heavy and expensive. The colour also happens to be pretty gorgeous - a cool, berry-skewed red that looks really rich and luxurious. It's a unique oil-blended formula, that glides onto lips and helps instantly overhaul any dry patches.

Beauty Director Sarah Cooper-White loved using this fancy buy. "These YSL lipsticks make great Christmas presents - they look so glamorous, have gorgeous colours available, and the designer brand makes it feel extra special. I like the slightly shiny finish that this colour gives off, which helps lips look fuller."

Does dark red lipstick look good on everyone?

“Honest truth, no,” says make-up artist Ruby Hammer who has her own make-up line. “People often apply it wrong, choose the wrong tone for their skin type or don’t wear it with confidence – and in these cases, it won’t look right.” 

However, there is hope! “But - there is a red lipstick for everyone and once you find it – it can look really good!”

Global Senior Artist for MAC Cosmetics, Dominic Skinner, loves a dark red lip. ”Dark red lip colours are the ultimate vamp look and suit anyone. It’s very old school Hollywood femme fatale.”

Do red lips make you look older?

According to senior make-up artist Skinner, it’s all about how you wear your red lipstick. “Red lips on their own is not going to age you. It’s how you combine the red lip with other makeup that will cause this effect.” He explains.

“If you apply a red lip with lots of eyeshadow and base it could look dated and too much. On the flip side, if you wore a red lip with fresh dewy skin and a wash of mascara it could take years off you.”

Looking for more product recommendations? Check out our guides to the best long-lasting perfumes, the best night creams and the best primers for oily skin.

We spoke to the following beauty experts:

Video of the Week

Learning how to apply eyeshadow to hooded eyes is far easier than you might think.

Before we explain how do you apply eyeshadow to hooded eyes, let’s start with the basics of what a hooded eye actually is. “Hooded eyes are when the skin above the eye droops down over the lid,” explains pro makeup artist Lan Nguyen-Grealis. You can tell if your eyes are hooded if, “the majority of the socket area is covered and you mainly see your lashes when you’re looking straight ahead. Sometimes it can be genetic, often East Asian eyes can be hooded, but not necessarily. Eye shape does change as we get older as that part of the face deepens and looks more sunken.”

“The hooded eye that happens with age is gravity pulling down that extra section of skin which is normally sat beautifully within the socket,” adds Max Factor brand ambassador and international makeup artist Caroline Barnes. “It then sort of hangs down slightly to create that tent-like shape over the eye. This can make your eyes look a bit tired compared to their natural shape.” Obviously, we want to look less tired, so how you apply eyeshadow to hooded eyes is all about working to wake up and widen your eyes. 

How do you apply eyeshadow to hooded eyes?

Step 1: Do start by prepping your lids

The most important step to start with for how do you apply eyeshadow to hooded eyes is prep. If you want your eyeshadow to be long-lasting (and who doesn’t when you’ve taken the time to apply it) then you need to lay the appropriate groundwork. 

“Our lids are the oiliest part of our face,” explains international makeup artist Caroline Barnes. “Make sure you don’t overload that area with skincare, then, just before you put your makeup on, take a little bit of toner or micellar water and sweep it over the eyes to remove any excess oil. You can also use a little fine powder or an eyeshadow primer to give you that velcro effect.” Creating a budge-proof look on hooded eyes is ultimately all about minimising slip and maximising grip. 

• Urban Decay Eyeshadow Primer - £20 | Boots

• Milk Makeup Hydro Grip Eye Primer - £22 | Cult Beauty

Step 2: Don’t choose light, shimmering shades

Most people that wonder how do you apply eyeshadow to hooded eyes have a set colour in mind. Hooded eyes can look quite heavy, so there’s a tempting tendency to try and brighten the area with pale, shimmering and light-reflecting shades. 

But according to the experts, the key to making eyes look brighter is to stick to darker colours. “I think a lot of people with hooded eyes feel that the skin is kind of taking over their eye shape and they want their eyes to look bigger,” says Caroline. “So, if you want to open out your eyes, you need to avoid using anything that’s lighter than your skin tone. Anything lighter or brighter will sort of throw itself forwards on your face, whereas you want to push that area back to make your eyes come forwards.”

“As a general rule, a matte shade works better,” Caroline continues. “If you have something metallic it will reflect the light and make the hood look more obvious, and you want to make it look less obvious by pushing it back.” 

How dark is dark enough? You don’t need to go super sultry – Caroline just advises using a colour that's “3 or 4 shades darker than your actual skin tone.” Brown tones are always going to look the most subtle, but you could also adapt the concept with greens or purples if you’re feeling bold. 

Step 3: Do opt for powder over cream

As we’ve already touched on, the best way to stop your eyeshadow from skating around is to minimise slippiness on the lid. It makes sense then that powder eyeshadows are a smarter choice than cream, as you’re not adding any more moisture into the mix. 

“I think powders will work better, and you’re going to get much longer wear,” advises Caroline. “But, if you want something soft and natural there are some nice cream matte eyeshadows that really set.”

“Creams are great if you use a non-creasing formula,” adds Lan. “But by applying powder on top of the cream there’s less creasing and it’ll last longer. With hooded eyes, adding too much cream shadow can create gaps when your lids move, so thin layers are the best way to go.”

• Charlotte Tilbury Luxury Palette The Sophisticate - £43 | Charlotte Tilbury

• Nars Single Eyeshadow in Sienna - £18 | Nars Cosmetics

Step 4: Do create a faux crease

One of the main things people mention when they ask us how do you apply eyeshadow to hooded eyes is creasing. When you have hooded eyes, you don’t have a clear crease or definition where your lid slots into your socket. So, what you want to do is use a couple of different eyeshadow shades to give the illusion of depth.

“By focusing on deepening the colour where you’re actual socket is, this can give the impression of a bigger eye shape.” explains Lan. 

“Start by applying a base colour across the whole lid and stop at what would be the socket line,” says Lan. If you’re not sure where that is, use your fingertips or a brush to gently feel it out. “Then, keeping your eyes open, use a darker shade, or apply more of the base colour, and follow the eye shape back and forth so you can see the structure. Try not to blend too far out from the bone towards your brows, just keep the eyeshadow within that socket space.”

Step 5: Don’t worry too much about your eyeshadow creasing

If you have hooded eyes, creasing eyeshadow is a common bugbear. There are ways to minimise this (like priming your lids and sticking to powder shadows) but the shape of hooded eyes means a level of creasing is unfortunately still pretty much inevitable. 

“You’re likely to find that you get smudging along the crease line because of the movement of the eye,” says Caroline. “It’s going to happen because the skin is touching the other skin and pushing the pigment together. But I do think a bit of creasing is a cool, slept-in way to wear your makeup so I wouldn’t worry about it too much. You don’t really see it so much with a hooded eye either, because your eyes are mostly covering that area.” 

Should hooded eyes avoid eyeliner?

We’re big believers that nothing in beauty is off-limits, so there’s no reason why having hooded eyes should stop you from using eyeliner. The key is just applying it in a way that ensures it’s as visible as possible, so your hard work doesn’t go to waste. 

“Depending on how bad the hoods are, a little bit of eyeliner is great because it gives definition,” says Caroline. “Just keep it very thin and delicate.” The secret is to “use an angled or very thin brush to ensure you get a clean line,” explains Yan. 

“Applying your liner outwards towards the sides can give you the best shape to suit the eye, and don’t be afraid to layer and build up, rather than going in with a thick line  – as sometimes this can cut the eye shape and make them look smaller.” If you go wrong, use cotton bud dipped in micellar water, or a clean brush with a little concealer on it, to tidy up. 

You’re not limited to simply lining the upper lashline either. “The lower lash line is where you want to create a nice bit of dimension so use a bit of kohl, and then smudge in the same kind of colour powder over the top,” advises Caroline. “That will really stretch out the eye and make it look a lot bigger.” Lashings of mascara make for the perfect eye-opening finishing touch. 

What eyeliner is best for hooded eyes?

Ok, so we’ve established that we want our eyeliner to be neat and narrow on the top lash line, and potentially a little smudgier on the bottom. “Using a cake liner is a good way to ensure the liner on the top doesn’t smudge as the formula is designed to be budge and water-proof,” says Lan. 

Not familiar with the concept of cake liner? It’s nothing to do with sweet treats and instead refers to a product where the pigment is packed into a pot and activated with water on a liner brush. They dry quickly, for an intense matte finish. 

For the bottom lashes, kohl is the softest of the liners, which gives you plenty of opportunity to create a laid-back, super-smudgy look. 

• Laura Mercier Tightline Cake Eye Liner - £21 | John Lewis

• Victoria Beckham Satin Kajal Liner - £20 | Net-A-Porter

We spoke to the following beauty experts:

Video of the Week

If you want to give loved ones the gift of a pearly white smile this Christmas, this Amazon deal on Oral-B electric toothbrushes is hard to beat. 

With the festive season less than a month away, folks across the UK are already stocking up on presents for their family and friends. 

Thanksgiving is also prime time for doing budget-friendly Christmas shopping, with Black Friday treating consumers to a thunderstorm of exciting deals on everything from this Aldi Airfryer to the Dyson Supersonic hairdryer and this Amazon Black Friday ghd straighteners deal. Checking out the November discounts can be a great way to save money at this expensive time of the year, especially in light of Britain's cost-of-living crisis. (If you're in need of more advice, our family finance section is packed with everything from cheap ways to stay warm to where to find the cheapest supermarket).  

Christmas can also be a massive headache for gift buyers, especially when you don't know what to get your loved one. When in doubt, it's often a good idea to simply pick up something practical - like this set of Oral-B electric toothbrushes from Amazon.

Made by UK dentists' favorite brand, the product is the perfect gift for people who care about keeping their pearly whites nice and clean. The toothbrushes offer three brushing modes, including a Daily Clean, Sensitive, and Unique Sensitive Plus, to ensure its users have a choice about how they scrub their canines. It also has a long-lasting battery and a round brush, so that each tooth receives a deep clean without the gums being aggravated. If that's not impressive enough, its oscillating brush head fades from green to yellow when the bristles need a change. Sounds like a dream bathroom product to us! 

With just a few days to go before December, it's worth checking out these Cyber Monday offers on beauty advent calendars to save the pennies and get something worth opening in the countdown to Christmas.

There's still time to get your hands on one of 2022's best beauty advent calendars and best perfume advent calendars - and actually leaving it a little late to pick one up almost definitely works in your favour - thanks to brands like LOOKFANTASTIC and Boots selling theirs heavily discounted in the Cyber Monday sales.

If you're in the market for beauty bargains, we've spotted a number of excellent Cyber Monday perfume deals elsewhere that are still in stock and boasting great discounts in the Boots Black Friday sale - the perfect place to pick up a Christmas gift for a special mum, sister or daughter at a huge saving.

Black Friday and Cyber Monday beauty advent calendars - best live offers: