Brows; for such small features, they can cause a great deal of strife. Fluffy, arched, bleached, pencil-thin…there are many trends, but one that always seems in style is tidy—meaning knowing how to trim eyebrow hair properly is essential. 

Even beauty editors have suffered from brow-related misdemeanors and restoring goofed-up brows can be tricky, but—if you can't book an eyebrow threading —we asked the pros how to trim eyebrows for the most flattering results.

Said "results" can be different for different people; some prefer fuller, more shapely brows, others like a neat, timid arch. Whichever shape you prefer, without assiduous grooming, any kind of brow can go awry. Here's how to trim eyebrow hair yourself, according to experts.

Meet the experts on trimming eyebrow hair

Your guide to trimming eyebrows

The best eyebrow trimmers for women, as tested by a beauty editor

How we tested the best eyebrow trimmers

The best eyebrow trimmers

I must admit that I was a little nervous about using scissors on my brows and had visions of slicing off more than needed. BUT, this clever contraption doesn’t even look like a pair of scissors. It has sharp, ultra-thin blades that were able to target my fine, individual hairs so I could be precise about trimming and shaping my eyebrows. I should imagine that if your eyebrow hairs were thicker, this wouldn’t allow you to grab them so easily. Fogg recommended to me: “when using scissors, trim a small length at a time and then keep brushing the hairs into your natural shape to see what progress you’re making."

If I’m doing my makeup and I notice a rogue eyebrow hair, tweezers are my go-to quick fix. Because my eyebrow hairs are quite fine, I sometimes find it hard to grab onto hair to be able to pluck it. However, these have perfectly aligned slanted tips to give complete closure, therefore allowing me to confidently grasp and remove. Game changer. I had to be careful not to go wild and overpluck because it was so easy to do! Tweezers are best used to remove the odd stary hair, not for shaping the arch. The main focus for me is usually the glabella—the flat area between your eyebrows above the nose—and I avoid removing hairs from the top of my brows in case I change the entire shape of my brows by overplucking.

I have watched TikTokers confidently using a razor to carve out their perfectly-arched brows, but I am not convinced! A blade near my eyes summons all sorts of blood curdling thoughts. However, in the name of beauty testing, I give it a go. First up, the blades of the Intuition Shaper have been designed with small micro guards to help protect my skin and I must say it doesn’t look as daunting as I first thought. But I chicken out. Sorry folks, but I think my eyebrows are far too non-existent and fine to take a blade to them. Most of the TikTok videos I’ve watched feature full, dark and coarse brows, so if this is you and you have a steady hand, try it, but ONLY use a reputable brand like this one with a guard from Wilkinson Sword.

Nad’s packaging may look a little old-fashioned, but this product is revolutionary for me. Never in a million years would I see myself waxing my brows at home, the whole idea just seemed disastrous and best left to the professionals. Yet this Wax Wand is an absolute cinch to use, with no sticky mess, very little ouch and gives great precise results. The kit includes the Wax Wand, cleansing wipes and reusable cotton strips. I wanted my brows to have a more prominent curve, so I applied the wax-gel by simply twisting the wand and smoothing along the bottom of my brow where hairs had started to wander. Then pop on a strip, press down and with a quick whoosh hairs are whipped out from the root. The finish is perfect. 

I sometimes have a few very short hairs that I find impossible to get hold of with tweezers, and usually get frustrated and give up. But this nifty little device has changed that. It picks up the finest of hair thanks to the high precision head. You hold it like a pen to either trim longer hair, shape your arch or get to grips with even the trickiest of fuzz. There’s no pain, just a gentle vibrating as it glides along. I love how faff-free and easy this was to use. I’ll definitely be taking this away on holiday with me. NB: Please ensure that you’re using a trimmer that is specifically designed for brows to avoid any damage or mistakes.

How to remove finger hair and toe hair isn’t something that’s often discussed. It’s important to know that you should by no means feel like you have to de-fuzz in these areas, with a little hair growth on your mitts and trotters very normal. But if you’ve decided that you would like to smooth things up, then chances are you’re in the dark about how to best go about it.

Fortunately, whether it’s knuckle hair you’re most concerned by or fuzz on your big toe, there are a number of safe and effective methods for at-home hair removal. We’ve enlisted experts to explain why hair sprouts in these places in the first place, as well as the best methods to get rid of hair on your hands and feet at home. They will weigh up the common options, including shaving, plucking, waxing, and laser—because, depending on your budget, time, and the results you’re after, some choices are superior to others.

Our experts will also take you through the common hair removal methods—including products—to avoid when de-fuzzing your fingers and toes in order to swerve irritation or redness left on full display. Additionally, we’ll reveal the, err, handy products to get your hands on so you don’t put your foot in it (sorry, not sorry).

Meet the experts on finger and toe hair removal

Your guide to removing toe hair and finger hair

The best methods & products for removing finger and toe hair at home, according to experts

As our experts mentioned, waxing is an ideal way to remove hair on your fingers and toes. These pre-made wax strips are made with damask rose oil and aloe vera for anti-inflammatory, cooling and soothing relief.

They are also shaped for use on smaller areas, and each strip can be used several times for stubborn hairs. The results can, they claim, last up to 28 days.

Shaving is, likewise, an expert-approved option. Choosing a razor that is able to glide over difficult surfaces—like finger and toe knuckles—is essential for a less stressful bathroom experience.

Billie designs their five-blade razor so it "pivots around curves and has a grippy, no-slip handle". Additionally, it features aloe moisturizer to eliminate irritation, after use you can keep it out of the way via a magnetic wall holder.

For a longer-lasting solution to finger and toe hair, and one that’s cheaper than heading to the salon, you can invest in one of the best IPL hair removal devices. This option has two sensitive modes, to avoid irritation, and automatically optimizes every flash to your skin tone for the most effective results. You can also use it on your legs, arms, face, armpits, and bikini line, and it claims to provide visible reduction in just four weeks.

Whichever hair removal method you choose, aftercare is vital. This gel—which is suitable for use on both the fingers and toes, and has a rapidly absorbing, non-greasy texture so you can get on with your day—has been designed to soothe the skin and leave it softer.

Additionally, it has been formulated to prevent hair regrowth and reduce ingrown hairs.

There’s a lot to consider if you’re exploring how to remove butt hair in the smoothest possible way. Because, as you’ll probably be aware, it’s not the easiest area of your body to access. Unless you’re flexible enough to reach it at home, it’s likely you’ll need to get someone you’re rather intimate with—or, better still, a professional—involved to ensure you don’t get caught in an, err, tight spot.

Chances are you’re weighing up all manner of options to de-fuzz down there. It’s possible that you’re thinking all the usual at-home hair removal methods—from shaving to waxing, and hair removal cream to laser—are on the cards. However, due to the sensitivity of the butt area, it has to be treated differently from your underarms, legs, and even the bikini line.  

That’s why we’ve pulled together a handy guide to help you remove butt hair and keep things tidy and comfortable as it grows back. We’ve enlisted the experts to give you the down low on how to have a seamless at-home bathroom experience, advice on when to book into a salon, and their thoughts on the best products to stock up on…

The best products for removing butt hair at home

As our experts noted, waxing can be a good option for removing butt hair—but you have to enlist the right tools. If you’re waxing at home, then it’s important to use pre-made waxing strips for sensitive skin, which can be gentler than traditional hot wax.

This option from Flamingo has been "formulated to grab even the finest and shortest of hairs," and includes products for post-wax care to "soothe and calm" skin.

Another expert-approved butt hair removal option is shaving. Choosing a razor that is able to reach difficult corners is essential for a less stressful bathroom experience.

Billie designs their five-blade razor so it "pivots around curves and has a grippy, no-slip handle". Additionally, it features aloe moisturizer to eliminate irritation, after use you can keep it out of the way via a magnetic wall holder.

As mentioned, your bum area can be just as prone as other parts of your body to ingrown hairs, which are caused when a hair that's been removed starts to grow back and curves into the skin—and often happens after hair removal methods like shaving or waxing.

Enlisting a pair of good-quality tweezers, that are specifically designed for this issue, on hand is key—and this pair has sharp pointed tips that will do the job perfectly.

Experts insist that it’s important to keep the butt area well-moisturized and soothed as much as possible. This oil has been specifically formulated to be used in the pubic areas.

It is safe for even the most sensitive body parts, and features a lightweight blend that will clear pores to ward off ingrown hairs and keeps the skin as healthy as possible.

Another way to remove butt hair is to encourage it to not grow back. This clever spray "saturates the hair follicle, starving the hair of the nutrients it needs", which causes it to grow back "finer and sparser".

It should be used after shaving or waxing, and massaged into the desired area every day until growth slows down.

Meet the experts on removing butt hair

Your guide to removing butt hair

Dermaplaning has quickly become one of the most requested skin treatments in-clinic. And now, thanks to social media and the launch of several dermaplaning tools, many of us are getting in on the skin-shaving action at home, too.

Popular among the celebrity circuit—Gwyneth Paltrow and Eva Mendes are big advocates of dermaplaning—it promises to bolster glow and create a smooth canvas for makeup, making it go-to treatment for many stars prior to red-carpet events. And while the celebs likely leave dermaplaning in the hands of the experts, more and more of us are giving it a go at home.

On TikTok, the hashtag #dermaplaning has reeled in 4.1 billion views (and counting), with many users showcasing how it’s done as well as the results. Tempted to try? Before you reach for any old razor, read our expert guide on DIY dermaplaning and the best tools for the job, as tested by us.

Meet the experts on dermaplaning

• Dr. Sophie Shotter is a multi-award-winning aesthetic doctor and founder of Illuminate Skin Clinic in Kent. She has over a decade of medical experience and is famous for her natural-looking injectables.
• Dr. David Jack is a London-based aesthetic doctor who practices at his clinic on Harley Street as well as his clinic in Belgravia. His "Egyptian Facial", which he’s been offering for more than eight years, incorporates dermaplaning.

Your guide to dermaplaning

The best at-home dermaplaning razors, reviewed by a beauty expert 

How we tested the best at-home dermaplaning razors

To curate our edit of the best dermaplaning razors, we tested dozens of different tools varying in price point—marking them on the below factors:

• Blade: the razor had to have a sharp, single-edge blade that moved over skin easily without causing nicks.
• Material: We sought out blades made from high-quality stainless steel that are durable and sharp.
• Handle design: "Look for a razor with an ergonomic handle that provides a comfortable grip,” advises Dr. Jack. "This will allow you to manoeuvre the razor easily and maintain a steady hand while working on delicate areas of your face."

MEET THE TESTER

Emma Stoddart , Freelance beauty editor

I'm a beauty journalist with over five years industry experience and have had the opportunity to try several different treatments in-clinic, including dermaplaning. I’ve also experimented with dermaplaning at-home and often use a razor to remove upper lip hair in-between laser hair removal appointments.

After testing several at-home dermaplaning razors, I have found a selection that really work (the Tweezerman tool being my favorite) and are totally foolproof.

The best at-home dermaplaning razors

If you’re after a pro-level dermaplaning razor that delivers seriously smooth results, turn your face to Tweezerman’s Facial Razor. Stealing my number one spot, this stainless-steel tool feels heavy and looks luxurious (hence the slightly higher price point than some of the other tools listed here). Ergonomically designed for easy handling, it glides over the skin with ease.

While lots of facial razors tend to be blunt, this one isn’t. The super sharp, single-blade expertly removes dead skin cells and baby vellus hair for a fuzz-free finish that’s actually fuzz-free. On my first testing, I was blown away by the smooth results—something I’d only previously experienced from threading or waxing. Oh, and the best part? It comes with two spare blades.

Another top dermaplaning tool, this was my original go-to before I discovered Tweezerman. The slimline product, which features a retractable razor, is perfect for travel as the razor is protected and it takes up barely any suitcase space. Double win! To use, I apply a little facial oil before holding skin taut and moving the razor in short, downward strokes.

For the first few uses (be sure to thoroughly clean the razor in-between uses), I was impressed with the results. My skin looked brighter, felt smoother and my makeup sat better. But with continued use, I found that the razor became less and less effective and needed replacing. While this is to be expected after a while, I was hoping the tool would last a little longer considering the price point.

British makeup artist and founder of skincare brand Votary, Arabella Preston launched the Magic Razor Wands after a team Zoom call comparing mustache-removal-mishaps. Designed to be gentle yet effective, the blades are crafted from high-grade Swedish stainless steel and are sharp enough to remove peach fuzz, stray eyebrow hairs and upper lip hair without causing irritation (or nicks and cuts).

Seriously sleek, I was instantly won over by the Magic Razor Wands for looks alone. The muted handle, that’s made from 80% wheat straw, will suit any bathroom interior while reducing your plastic consumption. Looks aside, the tools effortlessly glide over the skin, removing facial hair in seconds. The only downside is the price point, which is considerably higher than others, but you do get three tools included (so it’s essentially $9 per Wand).

If you’re after a purse-friendly pick that won’t break the bank, give these razors from Brushworks a whirl. Although named Eyebrow Razors, these tools can also be used to safely remove peach fuzz, upper lip hair, bikini hair as well as dead skin cells. While the razors are affordable, I do believe that you get what you pay for, and these tools are less effective (and not as sharp) as the others I’ve featured here.

I found that when using the razor, I had to go over the same area multiple times to remove all peach fuzz which ultimately led to irritation and dryness. The design also isn’t as user-friendly as other dermaplaning razors listed here. It doesn’t fit the contours of the face and it’s tricky to reach certain areas. With that said, it does get easier to use with practice and the tool has a foldable design that’s travel-friendly.

If you often find yourself losing tweezers or tools, invest in this 12-pack of dermaplaning razors from beauty brand Kitsch. Reasonably priced (considering how many razors you get), this pack is a great pick for anyone new to dermaplaning. While the blades are not as sharp as others I’ve tried (Tweezerman, I’m looking at you), this does mean that the chances of cuts and nicks are reduced.

To use, I recommend cleaning skin with a cleansing oil before gliding the tool over the facial contours in short strokes. Try to avoid going over the same area multiple times and if you find that the blade has become blunt, just move onto another razor from the pack. Made from plant-based fibres, these tools are also eco-friendly as they don’t contribute to plastic waste (a big tick).

While it’s completely normal to have hair on the breast and nipple area, if you don’t want it sticking around, there are steps you can take to temporarily remove breast hair at home. Wondering how to get rid of nipple hair and feeling totally confused? We’ve got you.

To provide a clear picture of how to do so safely, we asked the experts for the low-down on the best at-home hair removal methods for removing breast hair, from waxing and plucking to hair removal creams and even at-home IPL treatments. 

Meet the experts on removing breast hair

• Dr. Raj Arora is an aesthetic doctor and the founder of The Face Bible, who also works with Swedish skin-tech brand FOREO. 
• Dr. Hana Patel is a London-based doctor, specializing in women’s health, menopause, and mental health.

Your guide to removing nipple and breast hair

The best nipple and breast hair removal methods, as tested by a health & beauty expert 

Our testing process

• Method: I tested a range of at-home hair removal methods on the chest and breast area to bring you this edit, from hair removal creams to waxing kits and even at-home laser hair removal. 
• Time: I considered how long it took to do each method (and if it was a fail-safe for those who are time-poor) and how long the results lasted. 
• Ease: Of course, when it comes to hair removal it’s unlikely to be pain-free, so instead I considered how easy it was to do each method. 

MEET THE TESTER

Ciara McGinley, Freelance journalist and health & wellbeing expert

As a health and wellbeing editor, I’ve tested my fair share of products over the years—from sex toys and sleep aids to fitness watches and nose hair removal techniques—all in the name of bringing you the best of the best.

I’m not afraid to try something new, especially in the hair removal department. And, while my preference for removing one or two hairs on the breast or nipple area would be plucking, I’ve also tried waxing, in-shower hair removal cream and IPL to bring you this edit. 

The best at-home nipple and breast hair removal methods

WooWoo’s in-shower hair removal cream is a quick-and-easy way to remove chest hair. It works by breaking down the keratin of the hair on the surface of the skin, encouraging it to fall away. It’s a pain-free waxing alternative, and the vegan-friendly formula is enriched with soothing Aloe Vera and softening Jojoba Oil, so it’s a great option for sensitive skin.

Apply the cream before showering, and wait a few minutes before getting into the shower. WooWoo suggests allowing the cream to settle for three minutes before massaging it into the skin in a firm, circular motion. This then encourages the hair to fall away for smooth results. I found that it needed to sit a little longer than three minutes, especially on coarse, stubborn hairs. 

I loved how easy this product was to use, it fit seamlessly into my daily beauty routine and I used it on other areas of the body as well, although it’s worth noting it’s a short-term solution and hair does grow back in a day or two.

My go-to tweezers for grooming, Tweezerman is an award winner for a reason. The brand’s Slant Tweezer features a slanted end that makes it easy to grab small, fine hairs and remove swiftly with a firm and quick pluck. Available in pink and black, this sleek design is perfect for those who are always on-the-go and need to travel light with a multi-tasking grooming product 

If you have one or two hairs around the nipple area, plucking with tweezers is a quick and easy, mess-free, no-fuss method. However, if you’re dealing with more than a couple of hairs, you might want to consider another method as plucking more than just a few thin hairs can be rather painful. 

At-home laser hair removal or IPL hair removal is quite the investment, but if you’re looking for a low-maintenance, more long-term hair removal solution then it could be worth saving. The Peach 2 from popular Swedish brand FOREO is a sleek at-home hair removal device that can be used to remove hair in the breast and chest area. However, you should always cover the nipple area when using this device to avoid burning the skin.

I first tried out this device on my leg hair with a hefty application of cooling gel. With five intensities and two modes, it’s easy-to-use, pain-free and can be used on larger or smaller areas of the body. However, unfortunately the Peach 2 isn’t suitable for all skin tones and hair types as it could cause burning or scarring.  

The device works by using Intense Pulsed Light and T-Sonic pulsations to target hair follicles and stunt re-growth. I’m still in the early stages of testing, as the brand recommends 12 weeks of continued use for the best results, but already my skin feels smooth and I’m eager to see the final outcome.

Best of all, the brand has estimated that at-home hair removal treatments save around 72 days (1,728 hours) of shaving over a lifetime—I’m sold! 

Waxing strips are my least favorite hair removal product—anyone else? I struggle to hype myself up to remove the strips, knowing just how much my pale, sensitive skin will tingle. But, in the name of testing a variety of methods to bring you the best products to remove chest hair, I put Estrid’s Vegan Wax Strips to the test. First off, I should note that the brand says these strips are created for use on the face and shouldn’t be used on intimate areas, under the arms or on the head. I stayed away from the nipple area when trying these strips, and focused just on removing hair from the chest area, instead. 

Estrid’s wax strips are dermatologist-tested and formulated with lots of vegan-friendly, hydrating ingredients—think aloe, squalene, sweet almond oil and castor seed oil. The kit comes with 20 wax strips and six post-wax wipes to reduce irritation and boost hydration. The strips are easy-to-use, mess-free and work on super-short hairs (even those measuring 2mm, according to the brand). Once I managed to work up the courage to rip the strip, I was pleasantly surprised by the results. Light hairs on my chest were gone and my skin felt silky-smooth. The strips aren’t quite pain-free, but the post-wax wipe did wonders for tingling skin and made the experience more pleasant (read: tolerable). 

I discovered skincare specialist Sarah Louisa when looking for hacks to treat ingrown hairs. After supporting thousands of clients with ingrown hair removal and prevention methods, Sarah created the Ingrown Hair Tweezers for easy at-home grooming. While I love my Tweezerman Slant Tweezers, they aren’t suitable for ingrown hair removal, so I was intrigued by Sarah’s design. Her Ingrown Hair Tweezers feature a hook to fit open hair follicles and promise not to damage the surrounding skin (which can lead to infection). I had an ingrown hair on my face, and used the Ingrown Hair Tweezers to carefully coax the hair out from the root with ease before removing it completely. 

While you should avoid plucking ingrown hairs from the nipple area, for hair on the chest or around the breast, I recommend trying this product. If you meet too much resistance and just can’t quite get the hair out, seek care from a specialist to avoid damaging the skin or causing scarring. Note: you should always begin the ingrown hair removal process with a hot compress to avoid infection and finish with a cool compress. 

From hairless pits and smooth legs to a Brazilian "down there", there’s always been a bit of a fixation with eliminating every last wisp on women’s bodies. But if you're troubled by the hair on your tummy? Our guide on how to remove stomach hair is here to help.

The "happy trail", as it’s sometimes referred to, are paths from your belly button downwards and it is something seldom discussed, mostly because stomachs are less on show than other areas of the body.

It’s at this point that we’d like to point out that when it comes to body hair, there is no right or wrong—we’re very pro leaving it where it should be if this is your wish. But if you are on team hair removal at home, there are plenty of options for staying fuzz-free, including on your tummy. Here's what experts say about it, from how to remove tummy hair to the best products to do so.

Meet the experts on removing stomach hair

• Dr. Sophie Shotter is an award-winning aesthetic doctor with over a decade of medical experience. She's shared her advice on the best stomach hair removers and explained why we get hair on our stomachs in the first place.
• Hilary Hepburn is a beauty expert for hair removal brand Smooth Appeal, who has also shared her insights into removing hair in this area.

Your guide to removing stomach hair

The best methods for removing stomach hair at home, as tested by a beauty editor 

How we tested the best at-home methods for removing stomach hair

The best at-home stomach hair removal methods

This is brilliant! I don’t know why Wilkinson Sword’s Intuition range doesn’t get more hype. It’s a chunky beast of razor but it houses four nifty precision blades to ensure that the shave is closer than close with no nicks, thanks to the moisturising bar that encases them. Simply splash under a little water and watch the pivoting head—see, brilliant!—work its magic. I literally did just one glide and my tummy was hair-free and my skin was soft and smooth. It’s so good, I didn’t stop there either, if you get what I mean…

I adore any kind of treatment you can do in the shower. It feels really satisfying to know that once you step out, all your beauty chores are complete. So, testing this made me a very happy bunny. About a minute before hopping in the shower, I slather on a thick layer on to my tummy hair (side note: it smells citrusy and nothing like a hair removal cream). I set my timer on my iPhone for 10 minutes and shower as usual. I am a little cautious of getting my tummy too wet and do an awkward bend away from the direct water stream! After about five minutes I test a patch and the fuzz has vanished.

I actually saved using the wax for last because I’m a wuss, basically. I needed the whole process to be as easy to do as possible—no faffing about with melting wax in a warming pot. So I was happy to try the aesthetically pleasing Flamingo, which took Instagram by storm with its stress-free wax strips and has received five-star reviews on numerous retail sites. The no-heat strips come in three different sizes so you can use them almost anywhere on your body and it includes post-wax cloths to remove any sticky residue. It removed my tummy fluff effortlessly with only a little ouch. I’m a convert to this at-home hair removal method.

I was curious to try this gadget after seeing it all over TikTok. It looks a little like a Tangle Teezer that is gripped easily but obviously does the complete opposite. A crystal hair eraser, as it’s referred to, acts like a painless epilator. You simply rub it gently on your skin in circular movements to break the hair and remove it. I’m dubious. First of all it tickles and it is a little awkward to use, and I feel like I need to really rub to get results (I am assuming that it’s more comfortable to use on more tolerant surfaces, like legs). However, because I still have relatively fine tummy hair it does remove the fuzz, but my skin is left feeling bumpy and hair is everywhere. I have to grab a razor to finish the job.

This sounded right up my street; mess-free and with natural ingredients. Plus, it was developed to both remove hair and curb regrowth over time. So, how does it work? The formula—made up of Pilinhib Veg (a hair growth minimising complex) and Witch hazel leaf extract (to heal and soothe)—drenches the hair follicle and "starves" the hair of nutrients, resulting in finer, sparser re-growth. So far so good. However, what I didn’t realise until thoroughly reading the how-to is that this should be used after depilation—so you remove hairs and then follow with this mist to prevent them from growing back. Oops.

Scent doesn’t have to be seasonal. Often the best summer perfumes work just as well in spring, autumn and winter. But a little like updating your wardrobe for summer—it can be nice to have a fragrance refresh too. Typically, winter calls for warm, cocooning scents that combine spices and woods with musks. While in summer, consumer research shows that many of us lean towards lighter concoctions.

Delicate florals, zesty fruits and aromatic herbs are all popular perfume notes come summer. Something that, according to the experts, isn’t too surprising as crisp citrus and green notes work well in warmer climates. And interestingly, more concentrated and potent perfumes that are generally associated with winter can become overwhelming when temperatures rise. So, there is in fact science to switching up your scent for summer.

To help you find your new season scent, here our contributing beauty expert has reviewed the best perfumes for women that are light, bright, and breezy—and very summer appropriate. From petal soft florals to warm gourmand scents, there’s a sunny fragrance to suit every taste (and budget).

The best summer perfumes, as reviewed by a beauty expert

Addicted at first sniff, this uplifting fragrance is everything we want in a summer scent and more. It’s crisp, fresh and oh so moreish. Designed to capture the carefree essence of a sun-dappled English summer, London-based perfumer Lyn Harris chose to combine citrus fruits—including neroli and bitter orange—and aromatic herbs (think rosemary and lavender) with a beachy sea moss base.

Not an overpowering or overly complex scent, we believe the beauty of this fragrance lies in its simplicity. But if you do prefer a bold, "look at me" fragrance, we’d suggest turning your attention elsewhere (for instance, one of the best oud perfumes may be more up your street). For the fresh fragrance fans, consider this breezy perfume an everyday staple—a little like that white cotton Sunspel T-shirt. And like that white cotton tee, you’ll want to wear this fragrance with everything.

After a purse-friendly fragrance that conjures the scent of summer? This pick from Nivea is the one for you. Based on the scent of the brand's SPF, this fragrance is instantly recognisable. It smells exactly like sun cream (in the best way possible). So much so that our minds were instantly transported to a white beach, skin warmed by the sun, after spritzing this on.

According to the brand, that sun cream scent is thanks to fresh florals, warm spices and woods.  A beautiful blend, we’d describe the fragrance as fresh, sunny and a little bit powdery as it develops on the skin. Our only gripe is that it doesn’t stick around for long—after four hours, we struggled to detect any of its sun cream scent at all. With that said, it is very reasonable, and we’d happily buy this in bulk so we could top it up throughout the day.

We’re easily won over by pretty packaging, and this pink and blue sunset-inspired bottle from Louis Vuitton caught our eye immediately. Seriously striking, this luxurious fragrance has major shelf appeal. Looks aside, it smells great too. Inspired by the beach (hence the name), this fragrance pairs fresh Yuzu—a rare citrus from Japan—with warm cypress and a handful of herbs including thyme and rosemary to create an uplifting, sunny scent that reminds us of hot, sun-baked sand.

While it’s expensive, this fragrance truly smells incredible on skin and will have people asking, “what perfume are you wearing?” Our advice? Keep this scent to yourself. On first sniff, we detected that strong citrus kick before sweet spices, aromatic herbs and musks made an appearance. The lasting impression is warm and musky but, as we found, doesn’t last for that long. Considering the price point, we were a little disappointed with the longevity (expect 6–8 hours max). However, it is a beautiful blend that shouts summer. We’re hooked.

Floral fans, this one’s for you. Laced with lavender from Provence, this beautiful blend from Chloé is hands down one of the best floral perfumes around – and we’ve tested quite a few (hazard of the job). Soft, soothing and refreshingly light, this fragrance is the perfect summer choice for warm balmy evenings, dining al fresco with friends.

If you’ve been put off by strong lavender scents in the past, know that this one is different. While lavender is indeed the star of the show, it’s not too heavy. Here, it gives the fragrance a clean, slightly soapy aroma. Alongside lavender, we noticed warming woods and fresh herbs. Overall, this fragrance is pretty and delicate – capturing the perfumer’s vision of his mother walking through the heat of the garden with lavender in her arms.

Step aside Santal 33, as this summer we’re spritzing on another fragrance from Le Labo. Meet Thé Matcha 26. Although this fragrance isn’t new (it launched back in 2021), we only recently discovered it—but we’re so pleased that we did. Earthy and green, this unique concoction combines matcha tea with creamy fig, bitter orange, soft vetiver and cedar woods. It’s comforting, calming and smells familiar. Honestly, we cannot get enough of this stuff.

If you like a soft, earthy fragrance that’s more of a skin scent—you will fall head over heels for this perfume. If, however, subtle isn’t your thing and you want your fragrance to be noticed, consider something punchier. For the skin scent enthusiasts, expect to be greeted with bright zesty orange before sweet fig and smooth cedar wood steal the show. As for the matcha, it’s super subtle and lingers in the background. To dial up the intensity, you can always reapply this fragrance throughout the day.

This iconic fragrance from Tom Ford has become somewhat of a scent sensation. And after wearing it ourselves, we can totally understand why. Bright and zesty, Neroli Portofino is designed to capture the cool breezes, sparkling clear water and lush foliage of the Italian Riviera. Sounds dreamy, right? After spritzing this on, we can confirm that we were instantly transported to sunnier climes. It’s the sort of scent that will get you excited for your next trip—whether that’s to the actual Riviera or elsewhere.

Not only does this fragrance smell amazing, with its blend of bergamot, lemon, lavender, neroli and amber, but it also looks amazing. Housed in a beautiful emerald bottle with a gold embossed logo, this fragrance looks luxurious—and the colour alone has us dreaming of Mediterranean seas. As for the scent, it’s fresh, clean and uplifting with a warm and slightly sweet dry down. The longevity is good (expect eight hours, plus), but it is expensive, so we’d recommend testing it on your skin first before making a purchase.

If you’re after a summer fragrance that packs a punch, turn your attention to this new concoction from Jo Loves. Inspired by Jo’s recent travels to the Middle East, this fragrance pays homage to the colours and scents of Oman. At its base, myrrh, patchouli and cedarwood envelope the skin in a rich warmth that lingers long after spritzing. To cut through this richness, blackcurrant and blackberry add a tangy freshness.

Heady and intoxicating, this fragrance leans towards evening wear and is the perfect choice for anyone who likes to make a statement with their summer scent. While we weren’t sure at first (our scent preference is fresh and aquatic), we grew to love this scent as it developed on the skin. The dry down is utterly addictive—warm, woodsy and ever so slightly sweet. After eight hours, the scent still lingered and the following day, we could still detect it on a sweater. Impressive!

Love Sol de Janeiro’s iconic Bum Bum cream? Then you’ll already be familiar with this fragrance that smells exactly like the brand’s cult-favourite cream. A great choice for anyone who adores gourmand fragrances (like the best vanilla perfumes), this mist opens with a warm aroma of pistachio and almond laced with floral jasmine petals. After a while, rich sandalwood and salted caramel come to the fore before creamy vanilla makes an appearance.

Soft, sweet and a little bit salty—this distinctive fragrance conjures up a hot summer’s day on the luscious coast of Rio. And while it’s not the most potent perfume, we’d recommend spritzing this onto hair as well as body for longer-lasting freshness. You can also layer this scent on top of the infamous Bum Bum cream to really step up the intensity.

It may seem like so many formulas clog pores and make breakouts worse, but the best sunscreens for acne-prone skin do exist, protecting skin without fuelling spots. Tricky though it can be, SPF is not optional when it comes to skincare, so finding a formula that plays well with your skin is a must. 

All skin types and tones need to be protected year-round, using one of the best face sunscreens, in order to prevent long-term damage and reduce the risk of melanoma. With acne being such a common skin condition that so many of us battle, many brands are now ensuring their sunscreen formulas are developed with acne-prone skin in mind, allowing them to protect skin without causing further breakouts and blackheads.

According to Dr. Marisa Garshick: "Those with acne-prone skin should opt for sunscreen that is non-comedogenic or oil-free so it won’t clog pores. It can also help to use sunscreen that contains niacinamide which can help to calm inflammation and reduce redness."

Meet the experts on sunscreen for acne-prone skin

• Dr Marisa Garshick is a board-certified dermatologist and Clinical Assistant Professor at Cornell University. She spoke to My Imperfect Life about the best ingredients and formulas for sunscreens for those with acne-prone skin.
• Heather Wish is Skincare Education Manager at Paula's Choice and an industry expert in ingredients and formulation. She spoke to us about ingredients that can be sensitizing for those with acne-prone skin.

How we tested the best sunscreens for acne-prone skin

In order to give each sunscreen a fair trial, our tester took the formulas on holiday and tried each one for at least three applications. The main factors considered were ingredients, breakouts following usage, how they sat under makeup, packaging, hydration, and oil-control (for those that claim to do so).

The sunscreens tested were selected from brands that are trusted for acne-prone skin, previously tried favorites, and those containing ingredients known to be beneficial for acne. We also conducted some informal research with acne-prone friends and loved ones to take into account their recommendations. When testing, we also took note of how easy each sunscreen was to apply and travel with, as it's important to top up regularly even when on-the-go.

The best sunscreens for acne-prone skin as reviewed by a beauty expert

La Roche Posay is renowned for being a dermatologist favorite. From the affordable price to the tried and tested formulas, I’ve always known this is a brand I can trust with my acne-prone skin. This sunscreen is designed to be sweat-resistant, and oil-controlling, absorbing excess sebum and minimizing the appearance of pores. I was worried that this would leave a chalky or drying finish on my skin, but was pleasantly surprised by the lightweight fluid formula, which absorbed quickly.

As for the actual wear, I found that it kept oil at bay throughout the day and my T-zone was less shiny than usual after a few hours, but there was no dry or tight feeling. Also noteworthy is that the packaging is rectangular and flat, making it easy to slip into my bag for top-ups. 

Having seen this brand everywhere, I was excited to finally give it a try with their gel-cream sunscreen. My acne-prone skin loves gel formulas in general, as they hydrate without feeling thick or heavy. This is one of my favorite sunscreens out of those I tried. BYOMA’s proprietary Tri-Ceramide Complex works to hydrate the skin and protect the skin barrier, but with a lightweight formula that blends in and leaves skin feeling plump and glowing, but not at all sticky or oily.

I used this one regularly for around a month and found it didn’t lead to any breakouts and was completely invisible on the skin. It provided hydration where I needed it but didn’t clog pores or feel thick on my oilier T-zone. The only downside for me was the packaging, which I found quite bulky and made it hard to know when the product was running low. 

Many sunscreen formulas designed for acne-prone skin are fluid and absorb almost instantly, which is great for skin but can be tricky for those who want to apply make-up over the top. This Dermalogica sunscreen has a thicker consistency which takes a little longer to absorb into the skin, making it the perfect base for concealer and foundation. It does this without making skin excessively oily or shiny and works to keep sebum at bay throughout the day.

The key ingredients include niacinamide, which soothes existing breakouts, and caffeine to brighten any dark spots from acne. My husband is also acne-prone and despite my offering of all the sunscreens in this feature, this is the one he always goes back to and swears by for keeping his breakouts under control. The fact that it is fragrance-free definitely plays a role in this. As Heather Wish tells us: "Breakout-prone skin is especially susceptible to the effects of sensitising ingredients. When harsh, irritating ingredients aggravate skin’s surface, a chain reaction can occur that makes oily skin worse, possibly triggering more breakouts. Fragrance can be sensitising, whether synthetic or natural."

Mario Badescu is another brand that knows acne-prone skin and one that I trust with mine. I’m lucky that chemical sunscreens don’t break me out, but I know that some acne-prone skin requires mineral or physical sunscreens. As Dr Marisa Garshick tells us: "For those dealing with acne, sensitivity or dryness, chemical filters can be more irritating on the skin."

This mineral sunscreen has a light, serum-like consistency which hydrates the skin without leading to breakouts or blackheads. It contains hyaluronic acid, which I love for keeping my skin plump and balanced. I also find that this is a great sunscreen that suits most types of acne-prone skin as the formula is free from sulfates, mineral oil, alcohol, parabens, silicone, and fragrance. The packaging is a thin tube, making it easy to use up without any product wastage and easy to travel with.

This sunscreen is a cult favorite in Japan and upon trialing it, it’s easy to see why. The hydrating, hyaluronic acid-based formula left my skin feeling as though I’d applied a serum, sunscreen and moisturizer all in one. Unlike many formulas targeted toward acne-prone skin, this one goes up to SPF 50 providing full broad spectrum UVA/UVB protection.

I love that it leaves my skin feeling soft and smooth; it's the perfect canvas for make-up application but without adding to my already oily T-zone. At such an affordable price, it’s definitely one to try—but do keep in mind that, if you are sensitive to fragrance, this one does contain limonene and linalool.

This is a lightweight, fuss-free formula for acne-prone skin that I found myself reaching for more often than not on holiday. The sheer formula did exactly what it promised to hydrating and mattifying skin, without clogging pores. Although I don’t suffer with redness, the ingredients in this sunscreen are designed to also help with that.

The finish was non-greasy and water light, making it easy to apply and top up without feeling as though there was any sticky residue left on the skin. And, as with most of the brand's sunscreens, this came in a tube, which made it easy to travel with.

Being of Pakistani heritage, I know that finding the best sunscreens for dark skin has always been a challenge for many due to the dreaded white cast so many of them can leave. We know all too well the dangers of skipping SPF, but when so many of them can look gray on deeper skin tones, it’s easy to fall into the habit of not incorporating sun protection into our skincare routines.

This is exacerbated by the myth that darker skin tones don’t need to use SPF due to the melanin in their skin—but one of the best face sunscreens is still very much required. "The greater amount of melanin in darker skin tones provides some protection from sun, making them less susceptible to how it ages the skin," confirms Heather Wish, Skincare Education Manager at Paula’s Choice. "This includes a significantly reduced risk of skin cancers.

"While this is indeed a big plus, it does not mean those with darker skin tones can skip sunscreen," she stresses. "The sun is still aging the skin, it just takes longer for this damage to become visible for those with darker skin tones than it does for those with lighter skin tones."

Thankfully, formulas are now more advanced than ever before, and there are options to suit every skin tone and type. To help you find your perfect match, we trialed and tested some of the top formulas on the market, below, and also spoke to experts about what makes for the best sunscreen for dark skin tones.

Meet the experts on sunscreen for dark skin

• Dr Ifeoma Ejikeme is the founder & Medical Director of the award-winning Adonia Medical Clinic in London. She spoke to us about the importance of reapplying sunscreen, as well as some of the advances in sunscreen formulation. 
• Heather Wish is Skincare Education Manager for Paula’s Choice and is an industry expert in formulas, ingredients and skincare myth-busting. She spoke to us about the importance of wearing SPF for all skins, including darker skin tones. 

The best sunscreens for dark skin as reviewed by a beauty expert

This is one of the only sunscreens that I’ve gone through multiple tubes of and will always go back to. Although marketed as helping to prevent the visible signs of aging, in my opinion, this is a general all-rounder that's suited to most skin types. It feels weightless on the skin and blends in completely, leaving a velvety soft, invisible finish that sits well under makeup. Paula’s Choice is a brand is known for advanced formulas, and each of its ranges comes with a dedicated SPF. This one contains avobenzone, a synthetic sunscreen ingredient that provides broad-spectrum sun protection and is one of the most widely used UVA filters in the world. 

As well as protecting against both UVA and UVB, this sunscreen contains antioxidants that soothe and protect the skin from pollution. As for the packaging, the thin tube dispenses the product easily and we find it as weightless as the product itself. I'm hard-pushed to find any flaws with this one!

I’ve seen many beauty editors raving about this product since its launch and was super excited to trial it for myself. Vitamin C is an ingredient I always try to maintain in my routine—such as with one of the best vitamin C serums—recommend to others with dark skin, as it brightens and protects skin, as well as reduces the appearance of hyperpigmentation. This sunscreen also boasts an impressive range of skincare ingredients, including hyaluronic acid, glycerin and vitamin E. Although I only trialed for a few days, meaning I can’t speak to any changes to my own dark spots, L’Oréal’s clinical testing showed 93% of their testers felt their dark spots were less visible, which, when looking at the ingredient list, makes complete sense. 

I found the formula did feel slightly oily on initial application, with that familiar sunscreen-y texture, but this quickly fades upon blending. The formula is completely invisible and leaves no traces beyond its slight tackiness. I also liked the small bottle, which was easy to keep on hand for top-ups and found that a little went a long way.

I’ve been a huge fan of Clinique’s Moisture Surge since I worked on their counter in a department store while I was studying, so my love for the brand goes back years. The moisturizer has been celebrated for its deeply hydrating and weightless gel texture, so I was thrilled to hear it now comes with added SPF protection. For those familiar with the range, be prepared that the SPF formula is slightly thicker than the original, but it still gives the same quenching and plumping boost to dehydrated skin. There is absolutely no white cast left behind after application, and it leaves a smooth canvas for makeup, too.

I found that this one was less well-suited to travel, as round pots take up a larger amount of space, but it's perfect for my at-home makeup bag. I would say, however, that this doesn’t have the benefit of SPF 50. Dr. Ejikeme told us that although she prefers SPF 50 as it gives wider protection, it is still super important to reapply any SPF every two hours (or more frequently if you are swimming or sweating) in order to maintain protection against UVA and UVB.

CeraVe is a well-loved affordable skincare brand and each product contains its patented blend of ceramides, which help restore and maintain the skin barrier. Because of this, I found the formula more moisturizing than some others I tried but, for me, it didn't exacerbate any acne breakouts. Niacinamide also works to improve skin tone and soothe, so I loved knowing that this sunscreen was working hard on the skincare side.

Not only that, but I found that it was completely undetectable on my skin and I didn’t require an additional moisturizer—skin is left feeling nourished and ready for makeup. It spread easily and didn’t pill, which is a problem I often find with more moisturizing suncare.

This formula also contains micro-fine zinc oxide, a mineral that often leaves a white cast on deeper skin, so I was really pleased to note that it didn’t. As Dr Ejikeme told us: "Newer formulations of ingredients that usually leave a white cast have been developed to minimize this effect". I only realized after testing that it's also available with an SPF 50 in the UK, which I would have preferred to test, but it's still a good buy.

I tried a few different Caudalie sunscreens for this feature, but this is the one that stood out to me as the favorite. Applying and reapplying sunscreen to the body on holiday can be such a chore, and I hate the way it feels on my hands after I rub it in. This protection water was perfect as I could spritz it on and without worrying about any milky, grey residue on my darker skin. I loved how easy it was to use and the way that it dispensed a nice, fine mist. 

For those who experience acne, I would note that this one does contain oil and therefore, though the formula is non-comedogenic, I would still fear it could lead to breakouts. Like most body sunscreens I have tried, it did have more of a scent to it than those I used on my face, but I found it faded after a little while. This versatile SPF can be used on the face, body and even hair, for those who are suited to oil in their sunscreen, as well as toddlers who refuse to sit still for sunscreen application.

I’ve always loved Coco & Eve for their haircare and tanning ranges, and recently the brand ventured into skincare. Although I was initially skeptical, as I usually go for skincare from brands that specialize specifically in that area, I was enticed by the hyaluronic-acid gel formula, and was definitely won over.

I found the lightweight formula to be completely invisible and noticed that it feels very hydrating without being at all heavy. The product is silky, leaving skin feeling smooth and soft, something that also makes it ideal for make-up wearers. It comes in a thin tube with a pump and, as with all Coco & Eve products, is completely cruelty-free.

Just like your beloved blow dryer and brush, the best heatless curlers have fast grown into a hair styling essential. After all, they let you wake up with gorgeous, bouncy locks—not only saving you precious bathroom time in the morning, but also protecting your mane from unnecessary heat damage. 

While these overnight curlers have their roots in the pandemic, they have come a long way since clever beauty fans began using household items—like dressing gown cords—to create impressive waves. Indeed, they have been designed to leave you with results that are as flawless as tonging your hair the standard way.

Not sure which heatless hair curlers to buy? We've tested out all the top options so you can be sure you get your hands on the right one for you. Because, just like the best shampoo bars and the best hair dryers, there's something to suit everyone—whether your mane is long, short, thick or frizzy. What's more, we've called on the experts to share their silky-smooth tips for making the most out of heatless curling...

The best heatless curlers, as tested by an editor

This heatless curler from Kitsch ticks a lot of boxes. Firstly, it's pink-ish tie-dye design looks pretty sitting in any bathroom. Secondly, its 'curling rod' has a stiffer structure, so that when you bend it around your head, wrap up your locks with the two matching scrunchies and head to bed, there's not a hair out of place. In the morning, the curler leaves you initially with alarmingly tight curls—think young Sarah Jessica Parker's 1980's perm—but these soon zhuzh out naturally to achieve glamorous waves. 

The best bit is that, thanks to the 100% satin material, there's no unsightly frizz or breakage going on. To top it all off, because of its low price, it is incredible value for money—although after six months of avid use, mine is starting to lose its shape a little, meaning it will need to be replaced, so that is something to consider if you're intending to make heatless curls your go-to look.

If you're after one of the top heatless hair curlers with a luxury twist, then this Silke London offering is perfect. According to the brand, it promises to give you the "healthiest, biggest, bounciest curls you've ever had". One of its key selling points is its 100% pure silk outer material, which they explain will keep your mane 'smooth' and won't dry it out since is 'far less absorbent than synthetic satin'.

One of this curler's best features is its substantial foam inner, so it will maintain its shape after months and months of regular use and also keeps curls a uniform size. Additionally, it comes with a clip and silk hair ties for easy pre-bed wrapping—which I found to be a huge time-saver. Since the length is so long, it is particularly suited to those who have a longer mane. Got shorter hair like me? You may find it difficult to secure your locks in place, which means everything can slip out overnight.

Pura Silk doesn't just envisage you using its curlers overnight for added volume, but also to simultaneously nourish your mane. Indeed, while the price tag might be on the higher end of the scale, this is a seriously hard-working hair tool that is made from silk infused with hyaluronic acid, which is better known as an ultra-hydrating skincare ingredient. Additionally, there's also moisturizing argan oil which has anti-inflammatory properties and can soothe your sensitive scalp. 

The clever outer layer also means that—if used overnight—when you wake up in the morning everything should be still nicely in place, because the lack of friction will have reduced the risk of tangles and breakage. All you need to do is just brush out your hair, with the wide-toothed comb that's included, for "beautiful bouncy locks" and you're good to go. Additionally, the curler—which is particularly ideal for those with medium-length hair—comes with a storage pouch for easy transportation. 

When you have thick hair, it's important to use a heatless curler with enough width and length so that you can wrap your locks around it enough times and can create a gorgeous wave. This Is Silk's offering ticks both these boxes, and is also made from pure, mulberry silk—which works to condition your hair with its own amino acids—so it leaves your locks smooth as well as shiny and without any breakages or split ends. 

If your daily routine involves washing your hair before bed, rather than in the morning, this curler—which is particularly ideal if your locks tend towards dryness—is designed to work effectively on damp hair. While it does come with two handy scrunchies to secure your hair in place overnight, it doesn't have a clip—making the wrapping process a little trickier than with some of the other options. 

This option from LilySilk is perfect for those for whom frizzy locks are the bane of their life. It is made from 100% high-quality charmeuse silk on the outside, and also has a filling made from silk material. This means that, as they say, it can "reduce frizz, friction and helps to promote shiny hair". And I can't disagree, because I did notice that it left my hair visibly smoother.

They recommend using it straight after washing, when your hair is 80% dry, and it comes with a clip and matching scrunchies so you can easily secure your hair in place before heading to bed. To top it all off, it is also incredibly lightweight, so it's ideal for taking away with you on an overnight trip. All of which makes it, for its very reasonable price, brilliant value.

This is one of the best heatless curlers if you prefer more relaxed, beachy waves rather than perfect ringlets. Its other key benefit is that it comes in different length options—short (which is the one that suited my medium-length locks), standard, long and extra long—so it stays in place and you don't have extra annoying fabric to fold away with the handy little ties already attached to each 'leg' of the curler.

It also creates heatless curls with the help of a headband that can be adjusted, that sits on your crown as you wrap or braid different sections of your hair. I found this a bit fiddly to get used to at first, but I realized that my dry hair was a bit too smooth and that it was easier to use it while my locks were damp. This also means you can then use a hairdryer to finish it off and speed up the curling process, which is frizz-free thanks to the non-drying satin fabric.

Meet the experts in heatless curlers

• Michael Douglas is a hairdresser, and founder of mdlondon, with over 30 years' experience, who has tended to the tresses of everyone from Naomi Campbell to Kate Moss.
• Gokhan Berber is a senior stylist at Amazon Salon, in London's Spitalfields, where customers can book in for hair care and styling services using the latest industry technology.

How to use heatless curlers

Do you use heatless curlers on dry hair or wet hair?

It's totally up to you. "There is no set way for using heatless curlers, you simply get a different result whether done with wet or dry hair," says Douglas. "For example, when used on wet hair and left to dry, you’ll get a tighter curl that accurately mirrors the 'roller size'. When used directly on dry hair you will achieve a curl size approximately two to three times the size of the roller, so a much looser curl.'

Berber agrees that it's a personal choice, but he points out: "Damp hair is best for heatless curlers to achieve the most optimum definition in the curl. When using heatless curlers on completely wet hair, you'll need to wait until your hair is fully dry before removing them." He adds that whatever you decide, you should apply any required products to your hair before the heatless curlers go on.

What should I put in my hair before heatless curling?

As mentioned, you should apply any necessary products to your locks before wrapping them up in the heatless curler—and there are certain beauty buys that can help you achieve more flawless results. "For all types of hair, I would recommend Redken One-United Leave-In Conditioner to control any frizz and to add moisture back into the hair," advises Berber. "I'd also use L'Oréal Tecni.Art Beach Waves spray to achieve really defined curls that will hold." 

Douglas adds: "Moisture is key in order to help form the curl. A blow-dry spray like Save The Do Style Starter by Sam McKnight or OGX Argan Oil of Morocco Heat Protection Spray work really well. Lightly spray each section before putting in the roller. Thick and frizzy hair requires more product and more tension and precision when putting the roller in. Although, don’t make the hair too wet with the product, because it needs to be completely dry before removing the rollers."   

How long do you leave heatless curlers in?

While you might think this depends on how long you sleep at night—hopefully for a good eight hours—heatless curlers can also be used during the day. For example, if you're working remotely or having a relaxed day pottering around your home. In this case, you want to ensure it's working its curling magic on your locks for long enough to stay.

"Leave them in until your hair is completely dry, which obviously depends on how damp your hair is and how thick it is—it’s a good idea to warm the heatless curlers up a tiny bit with a blow dryer," says Douglas, if you choose to use the curler soon after showering. "After removing the curlers when the hair is completely dry, use styling products on each section and finish it off with hairspray for added hold." Don't have time to shower? Berber adds: "Your hair doesn't have to be freshly washed for the heatless curlers to work, as long as it's made damp by water and products."

Do heatless curlers really work?

Yes, but the results will be more effective the longer your mane. "The more the hair wraps around the curler, the greater number of curls that will be achieved," says Douglas. "It’s good to have hair length that goes around two to three times. If you only have a hair length that wraps around once you’ll achieve just a slight bend as opposed to a full curl." Berber agrees: "It would be difficult to achieve curls with short hair because the hair needs to roll around the entire circumference of the curler."

The texture of your hair matters too. "I would recommend using heatless curlers to those who have wavy or curly hair as there is already a structure of a curl pattern that the curlers can help to define,' continues Berber. "It would be difficult to achieve a completed look on naturally straight hair as the curls are more likely to drop due to the directional growth of the follicles."

However, curls will stay better if you follow some key pieces of advice. "Make sure to apply L'Oréal Professionnel Infinium hair spray and the L'Oréal Professionnel Tecni Art Fix Anti-Frizz spray while the curlers are in as well as once you take them out," adds Berber. "I would recommend the 'soft' grade of hairspray for this look to ensure the hair can still move in a natural and dynamic way. Also, try to avoid running your fingers through it too often, however tempting it might be!"

Do heatless curlers damage your hair?

In a word: no. "Using heatless curlers is simply changing the direction of the hair through 'training' rather than through heat," says Berber. Similarly, Douglas adds: "Heatless rollers don’t cause damage to the hair." What's more, as mentioned above, most rollers are made from material that actually nourishes your hair.

However, if you use a hairdryer while your heatless curlers are at work, then it might do the opposite. "Heat helps evaporate moisture from the hair and this is what makes the style fix in place, " continues Douglas. "The hotter the heat, the faster you can style it, but also the quicker the removal of the moisture. Therefore, heat-protecting products are essential to help minimize damage in this case."

How the best heatless curlers compare to household alternatives?

Chances are that it was during the pandemic you first discovered the concept of heatless curls with socks or dressing gown cords. But how do these compare to specially designed heatless curlers? Well, ease of use and evenness for starters—I found that using proper heatless curlers was a quicker pre-bed process and resulted in more uniformity with my curls. 

Then there's the material element, because curlers are often made with an outer later specially chosen to smooth your mane. "Silk is definitely better because it prevents friction, which is often the cause of split ends and frizz," says Berber. "It's also quick drying." And let's be honest, you've always got places to be and people to see.

Of all the products in a skincare routine, sunscreen is probably up there as one of the most baffling. We all know that we should be wearing one of the best dermatologist-recommended sunscreens (ideally) daily to help prevent sunburn, skin cancer, and premature aging, but with names such as UVA, UVB, SPF, physical, chemical, and so on, it can be tricky to make sense of sunscreen labeling and choose the right one.

Still, this terminology gives us essential information about the type and level of UV defense a sunscreen offers. To help you cut through the jargon, we’ve enlisted the real experts; dermatologists. With skincare constantly on their minds, they’re the best individuals to steer us on choosing the best facial sunscreens to suit every single skin type.

Meet the experts on sunscreen

• Dr Ifeoma Ejikeme is an advanced cosmetic doctor and the founder of the Adonia Medical Clinic in London. She's explained the differences between the two main types of the sun's rays, UVA and UVB, as well as how much sunscreen should be applied. 
• Dr Lauren Evans is a skin specialist with a background in dermatology, now an aesthetics practitioner based in Glasgow. Here she has explained the differences between mineral and chemical sunscreen. 
• Dr Nkem Ugonabo is a board-certified dermatologist based in NYC with advanced training in both cosmetic dermatology and lasers. She has advised on the importance of wearing sunscreen all year round. 
• Dr Sam Bunting is a London-based cosmetic dermatologist and the founder of her eponymous skincare brand, Dr. Sam's. Ahead she explains the sun protection factor (SPF) as well as how much to apply. 

How we tested the best dermatologist-recommended sunscreens

To whittle down our recommendations for the best dermatologist-recommended sunscreens, we looked for a broad spectrum and prioritized those that had a SPF of 30 or higher (the FDA advocates that you use broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 15 or higher.) The dermatologists we spoke to preferred sunscreens that offered next level skincare benefits as well as protection, so the main gauge was to find sunscreens that provided skin cancer prevention and anti-aging properties.

The best dermatologist-recommended sunscreens as reviewed by a beauty expert

Recommended by: Advanced nurse practitioner Cheryl Cain

If your skin is looking a bit meh (like mine) and you can’t be faffed with a drawn-out skincare regime (me), then this multi-tasking shield will be right up your street. It’s full of clever active ingredients, such as resilient hyaluronic acid, and a cocktail of powerful antioxidants to help prevent and correct those niggling signs of aging.

It’s a peach-colored lotion that smells lovely, instantly creates a smooth, light film over my face, actually blurs some imperfections, and brightens skin instantly. It’s an excellent makeup base, too. With a SPF of 30, I’d take this on holiday with me to save trying to cram lots of skincare in my case. 

Recommended by: cosmetic dermatologist and skincare expert Dr. Sam Bunting

If you’re guilty of skipping sunscreen because of time or you simply forget, then this could be the answer to your prayers. Flawless Gossamer comes in two tints: 01 and 02. My skin is fair but warm-toned with a hint of tan, so 02 worked better for me. If you have olive or darker skin, you may need to do a swatch test before purchasing.

It feels beautiful on my skin—really hydrating, thanks to the moisturizing ingredients of shea butter, hyaluronic acid, and squalane. The finish is like a sheer-tinted makeup base and it gives the desired glowy I love too. Dr. Sam's mission was to produce mineral sunscreen with a high SPF that looked like a radiant "second skin" and that didn't cause spots—which she achieved and then some.

Recommended by: Advanced cosmetic doctor Dr. Ifeoma Ejikeme

Some sunscreens can make those with sensitive skin react. Although not overly sensitive, my skin is prone to redness and breakouts occasionally, so I usually err on the side of caution and go for products formulated especially for reactive skin. This means produced without oxybenzone, chemical filter, fragrance, and parabens, plus it has been allergy tested and is non-comedogenic.

Luckily, this ticks all of these boxes and more. CeraVe is reliable and with great price points, this combined with the fact that it’s developed by dermatologists means it’s trusted and applauded. It’s a lovely light texture and simply feels like a good everyday moisturizer, which I would happily use. My skin is hydrated, protected, and not a white residue in sight. 

Recommended by: NMC-registered aesthetic clinician Eleanor Hartley

SkinCeuticals is a brilliant brand. Derms across the globe recommend it because of the pure, concentrated ingredients and I can’t get enough of the stuff. The Brightening Defense is a dual-actioned sunscreen, which helps to protect the skin from UV-induced discoloration and even skin tone. It comes in a neat tube with a super fine nozzle, so dispensing the right amount is easy. After application, my complexion looks radiant and after a week’s use, my skin definitely looks less patchy.

What I love most about this sunscreen is how well it sits under makeup—there’s no sunscreen pilling or excessive oily shine, even after applying it straight after. For such high protection, it doesn’t feel like you’re wearing anything on your skin. If you’re looking for a derm-recommended sunscreen for the face, this is worth the investment. Promise.

Recommended by: consultant dermatologist Dr. Anjali Mahto

Finding the right sunscreen when you have oily skin or are prone to breakouts is tricky, as some can enhance the problem. But this is perfect for those with this skin type as it offers brilliant protection—their secret weapon is an ingredient called Fernblock, an antioxidant of natural plants—without any breakouts.

The first thing I notice is the slight floral smell to it, which I wasn’t expecting. I also thought it would have a colorless formula which I usually associate with a gel, but it had a tint and looked more like a cream rather than gel. The color actually disappears once massaged into my skin and is touch-dry within a few minutes, leaving a smooth matte finish. It didn’t clog my pores or aggravate any blemishes, but I did feel it on my skin for quite a while.

Recommended by: skin specialist Dr. Lauren Evans 

This extraordinarily soothing and hydrating 100% mineral-based sunscreen provides the feel and advantages of a moisturizer and the soft—focus finish of a light foundation. I loved how it smoothed evenly over my face and dried really quickly to leave a nice healthy glow. My pores looked blurred as did small imperfections. I sometimes notice that my skin has patches of dryness that appear throughout the day, but wearing this completely avoided that happening. 

It can be hard to find a product that offers optimum hydration without any oiliness or film, but this delivered. I prefer a higher SPF but other than that I’m sold. 

SPF decoded: all your questions answered by the experts

Do I need to wear sunscreen all year round?

“Wearing sunscreen every day is one of the most important ways to keep skin healthy,” says Dr. Nkem Ugonabo. “I recommend everyone—regardless of skin type, tone, or texture—to wear sunscreen every day, all-year-round.” Even when it's cloudy outside, harmful UV rays are still present. “I always tell my patients, ‘just because you can't see the sun's rays, does not mean they can't see you’,” she adds. Applying SPF daily is essential to help protect skin from UV exposure, which will have both short and long-term benefits for the skin.

According to The American Academy of Dermatology, dermatologists recommend using a sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30, which blocks 97% of the sun's UVB rays.

SPF rating and UVA vs UVB explained

The sun’s rays can be broadly split into two main categories: UVA and UVB. “UVA rays penetrate deeply into the skin, causing it to age, while UVB rays are more present in the summer months and have more of a superficial effect—they cause skin to burn,” explains Dr. Ejikeme. "It’s also important to remember that UVA rays can penetrate glass, so if you’re planning a long car journey or sitting by a window all day in your office, sun protection with UVA is important.”

"The SPF (sun protection factor) indicates the level of protection against UVB rays," Dr Sam Bunting adds. "For broad-spectrum sunscreen, the symbol of a circle with UVA inside tells you there’s a high level of UVA protection, too, in proportion to the SPF."

Mineral vs chemical sunscreen

“Mineral sunscreens reflect the light once applied onto the skin, almost like a shield. Usually, these formulas use zinc oxide or titanium dioxide that can leave the white cast. It’s usually a better option for those who have more sensitive skin and works straight away once applied,” says Dr. Lauren Evans. “Chemical sunscreens work by absorbing UV rays, which are dispersed across the skin in heat. Chemical sunscreens take time to work and should be applied at least 15 minutes before sun exposure."

How much sunscreen should you apply?

According to the pros, the volume you use does matter and applying sunscreen too thinly could be unsafe. "With SPF, the amount matters," confirms Dr. Sam Bunting.

"The recommended amount of sunscreen per application is the length of two fingers for your entire face and eyelids," recommends Dr. Ejikeme. Or, try Dr. Sam Bunting’s "13 dot technique" (basically dotting your sunscreen in 13 spots over the face before blending) to ensure an even covering of skin with no missed bits. 

Combo skin can be a bit of a diva at times, can’t it? So the best sunscreens for combination skin must not only provide your skin with adequate protection from the sun’s UV rays, but also help to balance a complexion that’s prone to both excess oil and dryness.  

Choosing the best facial sunscreens for this finicky skin type might not strike you as the easiest task, but there are several clever formulas that will cater to various combination skin needs. Here, our contributing beauty expert has shared detailed reviews of the best sunscreens for combination skin to help you find your perfect fit—whether your complexion skews oily, dry, or sits somewhere in the middle.

Our best sunscreens for combination skin

How we tested the best sunscreens for combination skin

Our beauty expert chose a range of different sunscreen options to test with formulas that would suit different types of combination skin, ensuring that all budgets were suited. Each formula was worn for at least one full day and, during the testing process, our tester took note of all of the following factors.

• SPF rating(s) available
• Texture and consistency
• Whether the formula is mineral or chemical
• Ease of application
• How it looked straight after applying
• How it wore with time
• Packaging
• Price

The best sunscreens for combination skin as reviewed by a beauty expert

Thank You Farmer is a brilliant K-beauty brand with a lot of loyal fans around the world, and I can totally see why this is one of its most popular products. The texture is a dream—very silky—and it sinks into the skin for the most comfortable wear, also making a beautiful base for makeup. It’s great for dehydration in all skin types, containing hero hydrator hyaluronic acid, and the moisturizing formula is a particularly good match for those combination skins who experience dryness.

That said, because it’s so lightweight and hydrating, it does also work well on my skin, which leans towards the oily end of the scale. I had no issues with repeated use, but it’s worth mentioning that the formula does include walnut oil, which, while not highly comedogenic, may not suit those who are very prone to congestion and breakouts. Other than that, I can't really fault it. 

Ultra Violette is one of those brands that gets people excited about applying their daily SPF, so, naturally, beauty experts love it. It hails from Australia where they take sunscreen very seriously and which, in the brand’s own words, is “the toughest place to get sunscreen approved”—so you know their formulas are top-notch. 

Being oil-free, Supreme Screen is a great option for those whose skin is on the oily side, but the formula is moisturizing enough to smooth over any dry patches. It’s also got a formula that appeals to the skincare enthusiast, with vitamin C-rich Kakadu plum and dragosine for additional antioxidant protection. As for how it wears? I found it blended in easily and was very comfortable on the skin, and it worked nicely when worn with the best foundations for oily skin. An excellent choice that I'll use again and again.

Another sunscreen-only brand that makes applying the stuff fun, Supergoop really bangs the drum for wearing sunscreen all-year-round, and many of its formulas have (rightly) achieved cult status. Their primer-style formulas are great, but it’s this all-rounder that is my favorite from the brand. It’s moisturizing without overdoing it and feeling greasy, it layers brilliantly over other products as the last step in your skincare routine, and feels lovely on the skin, with a high level of broad-spectrum protection to boot.

Although it’s a thick-ish white lotion, it didn’t take long to disappear into my skin. It also smells like a sunshine-filled holiday—though do note that the Play formula contains some natural fragrance, which may be a reason to avoid if you know your skin is sensitive to these ingredients. Otherwise, it's a lovely lotion, whether worn alone or with makeup, and will make a great addition to your everyday routine. 

Read our full Supergoop review for a more in-depth guide to more of the brand’s sunscreens

Garnier is one of those trusted names for SPF, and this little bottle is many skincare experts’ affordable go-to. It’s very reasonably priced, making it a great choice for those who want to spend as little as possible on a good facial sunscreen, and has been designed with sensitive skin in mind—no fragrance or stinging eyes here. Although it’s very runny—which means you have to be quick in your application—it soon soaks into the skin and doesn’t leave mine looking excessively shiny.

Enriched with hyaluronic acid and vitamin E, it's also a great option for city-dwellers or commuters as it protects the skin from oxidative stress brought on by pollution. At 40ml, the bottle is a little smaller than standard, so it won't last a particularly long time with that all-important daily use (if you're wondering does sunscreen expire, the answer is a definite yes).

Read our full Garnier SPF 50 sunscreen review for a detailed analysis of this fan-favorite

Vichy is another trusted skincare name that has the backing of dermatologists around the world. Capital Soleil UV-Age is another runny number with a cocktail of great skincare ingredients—namely vitamin E, niacinamide, and peptides. What I particularly liked about this formula was not just how well it sinks into my skin, but that you can’t really feel it to the touch once it’s done so. It’s a dream to apply makeup over the top on with absolutely no sunscreen pilling.

Like the Garnier option above, the bottle is on the smaller size but comes with a higher price tag, so it’s not especially good value. The pump mechanism doesn’t lend itself well to the “two finger” application method recommended by dermatologists, but it will be easy to unscrew and shake out the last drops when I come to the end of it. 

Meet the experts on sunscreen for combination skin

Ask any beauty editor what their no. 1 beauty tip is and we guarantee they’ll say, "wear sunscreen". It’s a non-negotiable, year-round thing. A daily habit, right up there with brushing your teeth. The sun in moderation feels wonderful and is good for us, but over-exposure to the sun’s rays can cause both short- and long-term damage.

However, if you have sensitized skin, finding the best facial sunscreens for sensitive skin can be tricky. Delicate skin types are especially inclined to sun damage because it has a weaker structure and is less resilient to external aggressors such as the sun. As well as reacting to the sun’s UV rays, sensitive skin can also be aggravated by many sunscreens too, causing stinging and itchy red bumps. 

Meet the experts on sunscreen for sensitive skin

• Eleanor Hartley is an NMC Registered Aesthetic Clinician, CEO & Medical Director at Hart Medical. She has explained why some sunscreens irritate sensitive skin. 
• Dr Cristina Psomadakis, also known as Dr. Soma on social media, is a dermatologist and ambassador for Eucerin. She's explained some of the factors that characterize sensitive skin types. 

How we tested the best sunscreens for sensitive skin

To edit down our recommendations for the best sunscreens for sensitive skin, we looked for those with lightweight formulas and with the least possible non-irritant ingredients. We prioritized sunscreens that contained skin-soothing properties and had great rankings.

We also ensured that all were broad—spectrum sunscreens with an SPF of at least 30 (the FDA advocates that you use broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 15 or higher.) The main measure was to find formulas that are tough on protection, but gentle on our skin.

The best sunscreens for sensitive skin as reviewed by a beauty expert 

I have a bit of a soft spot for Green People as a brand in general; founder Charlotte Vøhtz was one of the first to passionately pioneer a truly "green" beauty brand that doesn’t scrimp on great skincare results. My love affair started about 10 years ago when my skin first became slightly sensitized. However, I hadn't tried their sunscreens before, and I had high hopes. Filled with hard-working botanicals such as Aloe Vera and green tea to soothe and hydrate, prebiotic inulin to promote a healthy, balanced microbiome, and broad-spectrum protection against UVA and UVB rays. So far, so good.

The thickish, very subtly green-tinged cream appears quite heavy at first and it does take a good massage to ease into my skin and disappear. But once it had sunk in there was no white cast at all and, although my skin felt a little tacky for a few minutes, it soon became undetectable except for a lovely soft, matte finish. I adore how my skin feels; like it’s covered in a super-smooth veil, almost like a brilliant protective primer. 

Ah CeraVe, what did we do prior to your existence? Super clever, dermatologist-backed, no-frills skincare that’s effective and doesn’t cost a bomb. I have actually worn their sunscreen before, but to be completely honest, I think I just whacked it on without a second thought. So after some considered testing, these are my thoughts. 

First of all let’s talk about ceramides. They’re basically lipids (oils) found naturally in skin and when levels are low the skin barrier is weakened, this disruption can lead to irritated skin. This has tonnes of the stuff, hence why my skin feels impressively hydrated post wearing. It also feels very lightweight to wear, which is impressive for such a high SPF protection. I’d work this into my daily regime as a replacement to my everyday moisturizer as it has the skincare benefits my complexion needs as well as safeguarding it.

Are you even a beauty editor if you haven’t got an Athelios sunscreen in your tote? The dinky bottle is perfect for travel, midday top-ups, lending to less sun-vigilant colleagues, and the formula itself is standard brilliance from La Roche-Posay. For more than 25 years, Anthelios have been pioneers in terms of breakthrough innovations and this hypoallergenic formula has been created for and tested on sensitive skins. Win, win.

The consistency is super runny, so be careful when pouring it out as it will run all over your hand/down your face. That said, because of this, it’s ridiculously lightweight considering the protection levels it gives. It sinks into my skin immediately on application and feels lovely to wear. Another huge plus for me is the anti-eye stinging formula—no watery peepers here. If used daily, the bottle wouldn't last you that long unfortunately, but it’s a must-buy for its sheer protection and comfortability.

I was a little dubious about trying a sunscreen for oilier skin, because although I do suffer from occasional breakouts, my skin isn’t particularly oily. However, as you’d expect from a brand like Eucerin, it is filled with amazing technology to help control sebum production and neutralize free radicals, as well as offering very high UV protection.

It offers an immediate touch-dry application which is brilliant for those who do have an oilier skin type and the texture is very light. It dries to quite a matte finish, and I personally prefer a more radiant one. Nonetheless, it does feel easy to wear and makeup goes on like a treat thanks to the smooth surface it has given my skin.

Heliocare 360 is up there with one of the best daily protection against the sun and daylight. What’s so great about it? It not only offers high-level, broad-spectrum protection against UVA, UVB, blue light from digital devices, and infrared-A, but it has the addition of intelligent complexion-loving ingredients to help boost your overall skin health. I was enthusiastic to try this particular product for its promise to help mask and prevent pigmentation patches, which I have a few of.

The first thing I note is the consistency; it’s definitely a fluid, not a cream, so it feels super light. It also has a subtle tint which I wasn’t expecting and after melting into my skin (very easily, BTW) the overall tone of my skin looks much more even and less blotchy—like I am wearing a sheer wash of coverage. There are also tons of very clever ingredients doing their stuff to help reduce melanin production and help to lift and prevent hyperpigmentation. Did I mention it's super comfortable to wear, too? No pore clogging here. I really like this product, so much so that I have already switched out my usual SPF to this one.

Avène is a particular favorite of those with reactive skin, like mine; the formulas are usually lovely and the price points reasonable, so I was excited to try the tinted version of their Mineral Fluid. The big discovery for me was that I didn’t expect the ‘tint’ to be enough coverage for my uneven complexion—I anticipated having to apply foundation over the top of it. However, it covered all my little imperfections really well; this is probably due to the tone matching my medium skin tone almost perfectly, and those with light or darker skin tones may not agree.

It gave me a lovely healthy-looking radiance and would be ideal for pool or beach days (it’s water-resistant) when you don’t really want to be wearing full-on foundation. It also didn’t pill when layered over my serum and moisturizer. A final finding was that I really noticed the addition of the Avène Thermal Spring Water, which seemed to soothe and calm my skin. 

As anybody with dry skin knows, the best sunscreen for dry skin has to be both hydrating and nourishing—but, ideally, you don’t want anything that feels too thick, heavy, or greasy on the skin. And while it might feel like the perfect product doesn’t exist, we’re here to prove that, actually, it does.

The importance of using sunscreen every day shouldn’t be underestimated. It’s one of the most effective products you can use when it comes to protecting your skin against ageing and getting into the habit of wearing it each and every single day (even when the sun isn’t shining) is one of the very best things you can do for the overall health of your skin.

So, to help you cut through the noise (and the seemingly endless selection of products now available) our expert beauty contributor at My Imperfect Life has sifted through a whole host of formulas in order to find a selection of the best face sunscreens for dry skin.

Meet the experts on sunscreen for dry skin

• Dr Emma Wedgworth is a consultant dermatologist and Heliocare brand ambassador. After graduating with a 1st class degree from Cambridge University, she went on to specialize in clinical dermatology. She has a vested interest in sun damage and a passion for healthy skin.
• Dr Catriona Maybury is clinical lead at Dermatica, a prescription-based skincare brand. She is a consultant dermatologist with a focus on medical dermatology, and her role at Dermatica involves research, clinical practice, and editorial work.

How we tested the best sunscreens for dry skin

A good sunscreen for dry skin shouldn’t be hard to use. Instead, it should be lightweight but nourishing, it shouldn’t feel greasy or clog pores, and ideally, it will blend seamlessly into skin without leaving a white cast in its wake. 

When choosing the products to test, I used a combination of my own personal—and previous—experience, looking at both new launches and older ones. I tested each one for around a week, ensuring the products I used over and under remained the same in order to ensure a fair trial. Of course, the best sunscreen is the one that makes you want to use it every day, but when I was testing these, I took note of:

• Price point
• Texture
• How easily it applied
• Whether it left any trace on skin
• How well it sat underneath makeup and on top of skincare
• How nourishing it felt

I also spoke to two consultant dermatologists and took note of what they would expect to see in the best sunscreens for dry skin, to see if this aligned with each product I tried. Dr Wedgeworth says it’s best to avoid sunscreen with high alcohol content: "Instead, look for hydrating formulations with ingredients such as glycerin, which helps to boost the skin barrier function."

Best sunscreens for dry skin as reviewed by a beauty expert

Heliocare is every dermatologist’s best-kept secret, and it’s for that reason that I really like—and trust—the brand. This is also Dr. Emma Wedgeworth’s pick of the best sunscreen for dry skin. "It’s hydrating yet lightweight and contains glycerin," she says. It contains high-level UVA and UVB protection, and it's formulated to help protect and repair DNA.

Personally, I love the rich, nourishing texture—it’s not in the slightest bit greasy and it’s really easy to blend into the skin. I also liked that it had a slight peachy tone to it—it doesn’t add color or coverage to the skin, instead, it helps prevent any white cast. I really liked how it made my skin feel, and it dried down to a lovely finish that helped prepare my skin for the best foundation that I applied over it.

This is probably the least nourishing of the sunscreens that I tried, but the lightweight texture, added antioxidant protection, and its mattifying properties meant I really loved using this. Despite not being quite as moisturizing as some, I found it layered really well with my usual best moisturizer on the days when I felt like my skin needed a little bit more nourishment—mostly on the days after using my prescription-strength tretinoin. 

The water-like texture is a joy to use, and it blends into the skin like a dream without leaving a white cast. It does feel slightly tacky immediately after application but that dissipates after a few minutes and leaves skin matte but not flat. I like that it also contains oat extract to help soothe skin, while green tea works to calm down any redness.

I love how affordable and efficient CeraVe is as a brand, and this SPF 50 lotion is exactly that. It ticks all my sunscreen boxes, and I particularly like just how nourishing—but not greasy—it feels on my skin. This is the most lotion-like formula so it’s a bit thicker than the others, and it does take a little bit of rubbing so don’t worry if it looks quite white on initial application, just keep rubbing and it will eventually leave skin looking dewy and hydrated. Like all CeraVe products, it contains the brand’s blend of three ceramides, which work to lock in much-needed moisture, and its patented MVE technology means it is able to deliver hydration throughout the day. 

The addition of skin-soothing, all-round hero ingredient niacinamide is excellent, and I like that it’s also formulated for sensitive skin, so it doesn’t contain any ingredients that may irritate. Plus, it’s non-comedogenic so it doesn’t clog my pores.

One of these sunscreens sells every 15 seconds, and I can see why, though I do have to admit I was a bit skeptical before trying it. The reason being that Bioré is famed for its pore strips (which I would never, ever use). So I, somewhat naively, assumed that a product from the brand couldn’t possibly be any good—but I was wrong to be worried. This sunscreen is truly incredible: I love the lightweight, silky, gel-like formula and it felt fresh on my skin as I applied it. It did take a while to rub it in, and I was worried it was going to leave a white cast at first but it did eventually disappear into the skin and ended up being super comfortable to wear—in fact, I barely even knew it was there. If you’re using the two-finger method to apply the right amount, I would suggest applying one finger at a time and layering it up to help it absorb more quickly.

I did notice that alcohol is the second ingredient listed—I could smell it whilst applying—which is something that Dr Wedgeworth warned against, but the fact it's combined with glycerin, hyaluronic acid, and vitamin E means it doesn’t feel drying at all. It played exceptionally well with my other skincare, and acted as a great base for makeup, too. It’s a new firm favorite for me.

Off the bat, I do wish this was an SPF 50—although SPF 30 is the minimum protection level experts would recommend, I always prefer to go higher just to be on the extra safe side and, really, there’s never really an excuse not to. However, my own personal preferences aside, there’s no denying that this is a great formula, especially for the price point.

I like that it’s being marketed in an appealing way—who doesn’t want a product that preps skin for makeup application and leaves it looking dewy? And it really does deliver on its promises. It doesn’t pill, and it contains a trio of hydrating ingredients—polyglutamic acid, glycerin, and squalane—which helps to keep skin loaded with moisture without looking greasy or feeling heavy. I also really loved how it made my skin look once it was rubbed in, so it was the perfect choice for those no-makeup-makeup days, too. 

Though it is of course the priority, the best sunscreens for oily skin have to do more than protect the skin from the sun’s harmful rays. Sunscreen has a reputation for being greasy, which is the last thing you want when your skin is prone to excess oil, so these formulas must not cause skin to be excessively shiny and greasy—particularly if you wear makeup over the top.

When shopping for the best facial sunscreens for this skin type, Dr. Ifeoma Ejikeme advises: "Look for sunscreen that is labeled as 'oil-free' or 'non-comedogenic,' as this can help prevent clogging of pores and breakouts. Choose a sunscreen with a lightweight texture, that won't feel heavy or greasy on the skin; sunscreen with a matte finish can also help reduce shine.

“When it comes to factors to avoid, be cautious of sunscreens that contain heavy oils, fragrances, or other potentially irritating ingredients that can worsen oily or combination skin,” she adds. Ahead, after years of trialing and testing SPFs as a beauty editor, one of our contributing beauty experts has shared detailed reviews of the best sunscreens for oily skin.

Meet the experts on sunscreen for oily skin

• Dr. Ifeoma Ejikeme is an advanced cosmetic doctor and the founder of the Adonia Medical Clinic in London. Here she has explained how to choose SPF for oily skin, and how much sunscreen should be applied for adequate protection.
• Dr. Alexis Granite is a board-certified consultant dermatologist and an ambassador for Garnier. She has explained the differences between mineral and chemical sunscreen, the two categories of SPF formulas. 

How we tested the best sunscreens for oily skin

Before compiling this guide, we selected a range of different sunscreen options that had formulas that would likely suit oily skin types. These also covered a range of price points to ensure that all budgets were catered to, and options that are known to be recommended by experts such as dermatologists. Each formula was worn at least once and, during the testing process, our beauty expert contributor took note of all of the following factors:

• Consistency of formula
• How easily it rubbed in
• If it left a white cast
• How it felt on the skin both immediately and with wear
• SPF rating(s)
• Packaging
• Price

The best sunscreens for oily skin, as reviewed by a beauty editor 

This cream has become a real go-to for wearing under makeup when my skin is going through a particularly oily and/or spotty period. It rubs in easily and isn’t visible on the skin, plays well under makeup, and doesn’t cause the skin to go greasy throughout the day. But most notably this formula has been designed specifically for oily and blemish-prone skin—and it shows. The ingredients list boasts a little something called monolaurin, which works to steady sebum production and help reduce any existing blemishes, so you can trust that it won’t worsen any current breakouts.

As you’d expect from an oily skin formula, it’s also non-comedogenic, the technical term for non-pore clogging. It offers broad-spectrum protection at SPF 50+, with HEV blue light protection thrown in for good measure. A downside is that the formula is yellow, so, while I’ve not been burned by this myself, to be on the safe side I would be wary of it marking white clothing. Other than that, it’s a reliable and reasonably-priced favorite.

Although this formula isn’t designed specifically for oily skin, it played so nicely with my complexion that I was genuinely wowed. Not only is it a dream to apply and wear, but the ingredients list has so many ticks. Firstly, there’s vitamin C and vitamin E for antioxidant protection and added radiance, but the formula is also hydrating thanks to the inclusion of hyaluronic acid. It’s not super rich, but is a good fit for oily skin because it sinks in with ease—no frantic rubbing here—and doesn’t feel at all greasy. I personally don’t have any dark spots, so can’t comment on how well these were reduced, but L’Oréal’s own consumer research certainly sounds impressive. 

On a practical level, this sunscreen is pretty runny (as my image above shows) and so you have to be speedy if you’re using the two-finger method to measure the right amount to apply to your face and neck. But in my opinion, this is easy to forgive because of how lovely the formula is to apply and use. An excellent newcomer to the market!

I’m a beauty editor, so I’m biased, but I love when a brand makes sunscreen application feel exciting for those who might not be inclined to put it on every single day. Ultra Violette is just… cool. Hailing from Australia, where they know a thing or two about the importance of wearing sunscreen, there are so many excellent SPF products within its range, but Lean Screen is the one for very oily (or sensitive, or both) skin types. It’s a completely mineral formula that mattifies the skin but isn’t too drying, thanks to hydrating pentavitin. There’s also Kakadu plum, famous for boasting 50+ times the vitamin C as a single orange, meaning antioxidant benefits, too.

I can’t speak to how this would look on all skin tones, I found that it rubbed in easily and didn’t leave a white cast thanks to its slight tint. You can feel it slightly on the skin, but not to the extent that it’s bothersome, heavy, or greasy. In the interest of fairness, I have to mention that I couldn’t get the pump to work on two tubes that I tested, so while I doubt it’s a widespread issue, I can’t accurately comment on Lean Screen’s dispensation (when I’ve tried other Ultra Violette sunscreens, the pumps have been clean and efficient). Other than that, it kept my skin nice and matte when worn alone or with makeup, which it will keep slightly matte, too.

SkinCeuticals is a brand you can trust. Many of its products are skincare icons in their own right, such as the famous CE Ferulic Serum, but their sunscreens are equally brilliant. I should first flag that these products vary around the world due to local regulations, so this exact buy isn’t available in the US, though there are options for oily skin Stateside, too (though most of these are mineral-only formulas). Oil Shield is a mineral and chemical formula and, despite being a white cream, does dissipate with rubbing and isn't visible once it’s soaked into my skin. In my experience, it’s also impressive how well it lives up to its mattifying claims, even in hot weather, regardless of whether you’ve applied makeup over the top—this is down to silica silicate, which is the sebum-reducing ingredient that also has a blurring effect on skin.

The very obvious downside here is, of course, its price tag, which is a little yikes-inducing when you consider the tube is on the small side at 1fl oz/30ml. This very much makes it one for those who set aside a big skincare budget, particularly as you can’t be conservative with sunscreen application. However, if that’s not an obstacle for you and you’re already an SC fan with oily skin, I think you’ll find a new favorite in this, too.

Anthelios is one of the first names that comes to a skincare enthusiast’s mind when you think of sunscreen. First things first, La Roche-Posay is another brand whose SPF offering differs around the world, so this exact iteration isn’t another that’s not available in the US. That said, there are similar Anthelios options for both oily and oily-to-combination skin are available—inhcluding oil-free formulas. 

If ever you’ve found the original Anthelios to be just that little bit too moisturizing or glow-inducing, allow me to present the Oil Control edition. It offers the same great protection with the advanced UVMune 400 filter (broad spectrum protection that also shields skin from ultra-long rays) in a formula that’s more appropriate for oily and combination–oily skins. The hero ingredient for oily skin is airlicium, which absorbs excess oil to keep things matte while you wear—which I can attest to. This is the runniest formula in the guide by some way, but it’s so advanced and easy to rub in and apply that we can forgive it. For newbies, we have a dedicated La Roche-Posay Anthelios review for a more in-depth guide to the original.

The best foundations for combination skin will tick all the boxes in terms of performance while also striking the balance for a complexion that's prone to both dryness and oily patches. Generally, when it comes to acing your base, not only does the hue need to be spot on, but your skins undertone must be catered for too. And of course it doesn't end there; let's not forget that your skin concerns (think lines, pigmentation and acne), all require consideration, and so too does your skin type. 

For those with combination skin this process can be even tougher as, out of all the varieties, this is probably the most tricky to find the best foundation for. As Dr Joney De Souza explains, this skin type "can be dry in some areas, normal in others with oily patches most commonly found across the nose, forehead and chin, aka the T-zone". 

With the oiliness comes pores that appear larger (due to being packed full of excess oil) and a tendency to break out. At the same time, dry areas often look dull and flaky, and it’s this stark contrast that means the perfect formula has to be a delicate balancing act of ingredients. The ideal base, therefore, will hydrate, illuminate, and mattify where needed—and so we tasked an expert beauty editor with finding the best foundations for combination skin. 

Meet the experts on foundation for combination skin

• Dr Joney De Souza is an aesthetics doctor with over 20 years of experience in the field, and the founder of the Dr Joney De Souza Skin and Laser Clinic in Marylebone, London. Here he has advised My Imperfect Life readers on the characteristics of combination skin.

How we tested the best foundations for combination skin

To find the top-performing formulas, I tested a host of combination skin-friendly foundations, wearing each one for at least a full workday to see how well they would stand up to a brisk walk to my local tube station, the humidity of a tube carriage, an air-conditioned office, and whether it needed topping up when going out after work. I also took note of the following factors during my search:

• Price
• Packaging
• Shade range
• Ease of application
• How it looked and felt on the skin
• How it wore throughout the day

While testing, I paid particular attention to how easily the product blended into the skin, its pore-blurring abilities (as oilier skin equals larger looking pores), and whether it needed a powder on top, as well as how well it stayed in place later in the day. 

The best foundations for combination skin, as reviewed by a beauty editor

Packed full of hydrating hyaluronic acid, this glides across the skin with ease and blends in so well it looks and feels like a second skin. The coverage is buildable all the way up to medium, and it has a dewy finish that for those of us with combination skin can be a little scary—will this dew turn into an oil slick after a couple of hours? But it didn’t, although I did add a light touch of powder on top for more of a matte finish halfway through the day when I noticed that, for me at least, this formula needed some help staying put.

I found that this base blurred my pores and pimples, didn’t pool into my lines, and really lit up my skin. It may not suit those skin types who are more on the oily side of combination skin than dry and prefer more of a matte finish, as it's very glowy and radiant, but that's precisely what makes it great for any dryness. Overall, it's a truly lovely base. 

A breathable foundation, I found that this formula feels more like a tinted moisturizer in texture, thanks to soothing aloe, and hydrating squalane. But unlike a tinted moisturizer, the finish is buildable, so I managed to layer up the formula to cover redness and hyperpigmentation, too. The main actives in the foundation-slash-serum are a dream for combination skin. Anti-inflammatory niacinamide has the ability to reduce sebum production and protect the skin barrier to prevent water loss, thus reducing my propensity for dryness and dehydration over time. I also found that it helped to lessen my acne, even out my skin tone and reduce the look of my pores, too. 

The formula also includes allantoin, an extract from the comfrey plant that has a plethora of benefits—namely preventing dryness and irritation, and promoting healing, exfoliation, and hydration. It lasted well through a long, busy day and it wasn’t cakey, so my dull and dry patches weren’t taking centre stage—this is often the case when I wear über-mattifying formulas that suit oily skin well, but combination skin not so much. 

With the abundance of shades and tone variations finding a match for my mixed Black skin, with its warm undertone this formula was a welcome breeze. However, note I found that the formula oxidises on contact with the skin, so to find your perfect match you have to wait for it to totally dry before deciding which shade suits you best. It has a creamy velvety texture that glides over the skin, mattifying as you go, and is both oil-free and non-comedogenic. I certainly put the climate-adaptive technology that makes this foundation sweat and humidity resistant to the test and give it top marks. 

However, despite its pore blurring abilities and its matte nature being ideal for my oily T-zone, I did find that a touch of highlighter and contour cream above and below my cheek bones was needed to put back some definition to my face. Its staying power was incredibly impressive, it lasts all day and then some (yes, I’ve slept in this a few times after a night out) but in colder climates I have found I need to add a dab of moisturizer on top of any dry patches I have. If your skin skews far more towards the oily end of the combination spectrum, which is the case for beauty contributor Lucy Abbersteen, it could be the perfect match, as she found it plays well with oiliness without looking too matte. 

Rather more watery than other matte foundations I’ve used before, I wondered how I would be able to get a decent amount of coverage with this base—but I was pleasantly surprised. It blended with ease and helped even out my skin tone offering a matte finish with just the right dose of luminosity—so my skin didn’t look flat. It performed well under pressure, not budging despite the humid conditions the day of testing. I also appreciated the sun protection and the pollution protection too. Generally, my skin looked smooth, and my pores were less noticeable, but this did require some blotting after around four hours of wear.

Creamy and surprisingly light given that you don’t need much to achieve a full coverage finish, I found this oil free foundation a good match for my combination skin. It holds up really well to heat and humidity, doesn’t feel heavy and with neutral, cool and warm undertones available I was able to find a shade that literally looked like a second skin. Pores, lines and acne were blurred, but I’m not convinced it’s luminous as the name would suggest. I had to add some life back to my skin with bronzer and highlighter, but I wasn’t mad at that since it did such a good job at keeping my oily t-zone matte without drying out or drawing attention to the dry patches I had around my nose, and mouth.

• View complete shade range at Ulta in the US
• View complete shade range at Boots in the UK

I found the application tips for this serum rather wasteful and messy, as the brand recommend you apply 2-3 drops of this serum come foundation into the palms of your hand and then spread the base over the face with your fingertips as if you are using a serum. Needless to say, I ignored that advice and dropped the foundation straight onto the skin and then blended it in with my trusty foundation brush. Coverage was very light but can be layered enough to cover redness, and an uneven skin tone, making it a good day time base. While the hyaluronic acid definitely left me skin plump and hydrated, and the non-pore blocking formula ensured that I didn’t develop any extra spots while testing. I chose to add some powder to my t-zone a few hours after application, not because my skin felt or looked any oiler than normal but I prefer a less dewy finish.

Don't want to have to reapply your go-to scent? The best long-lasting perfumes will stay put for hours on end without losing the fragrance that made them so irresistible in the first place. And if you haven't yet found one, our contributing beauty expert has reviewed those specifically formulated to cling to the skin, guaranteeing their longevity. Unlike shorter-lived scents—that smell amazing one minute, only to disappear the next—you won't need to top up these scents, meaning you get more spritzes per bottle.

After all, the very best perfumes for women not only smell incredible on first sniff, but will also evolve beautifully over the course of the day without evaporating into thin air. In fact, they should even become more interesting with time. “If you’re faithful to your favorites, you’ll likely notice subtle changes in your perfume from season to season,” says Eva Carlo, brand perfume expert at Creed. "The chemistry that occurs between the scent and your very individual skin will be reflected in the final result and the performance of the scent."

As well as our expert's in-depth reviews of the top long-lasting spritzes that boast impressive staying power, later in our guide Carlo also breaks down which specific type of perfume lasts the longest (i.e. the type you should look out for), and how to boost your chosen scent's longevity. Here's what you need to know... 

The best long-lasting perfumes, as reviewed by a beauty expert

Arguably Le Labo’s most iconic fragrance, Santal 33 has become a scent sensation that is loved by beauty editors and scent enthusiasts around the world. Cozy, comforting and intoxicating—the brand describes the fragrance as evocative of “an open fire—the soft drift of smoke—where sensuality rises after the light has gone.” Crackling cardamon and delicate florals (think iris and violet) combine with smoky woods (Australian sandalwood and cedarwood), leather, and musk to give this scent its addictive, signature aroma. It's so unique and truly stands out from the crowd. 

Totally obsessed, this fragrance had our tester's attention from the first sniff. We adore the subtly spiced, floral opening that quickly dries down to a smoky, woodsy base. To us, it conjures up a pine forest on a crisp winter’s day—earthy and uplifting. The staying power is very impressive (think 12+ hours) and as it evolves on the skin, the dry woods truly come into their own. If you’re after a distinctive fragrance that lasts and demands to be noticed, this could be the pick for you—which is why it tops the list of our best long-lasting perfumes. We’ll be saving this for the cold, winter months when we want to pack a perfume punch.

Affordable, long-lasting perfumes can be hard to come by, but Glossier’s You is exactly that. The innovative fragrance, which was formulated to adapt to the wearer’s unique body chemistry, smells slightly different on everyone. Clever, huh? Totally unique, the brand describes the fragrance as an incomplete product that requires you (and your skin’s chemistry) to complete it—hence the name. On our tester, the scent has a warm, woodsy and fresh floral aroma that smells like your skin, but better.

Unlike some long-lasting perfumes, this number is not at all overpowering. It’s delicate, refreshingly light yet stays on the skin for several hours (we could still detect it by evening). A great everyday scent, we love how this fragrance makes you feel—put together and a little more polished. It’s warm yet crisp and it wears evenly, meaning the scent won’t change over the course of the day either if that's what you prefer. The downside? It could be mistaken as being simplistic, but once it melts into your skin, it really is entirely unique.

This is not your ‘fade into the background’ kind of perfume. Portrait of a Lady by Frederic Malle will stop people in their tracks so they can ask, “what scent are you wearing?”—making it one of the most complimented fragrances around. Magnetic and powerful—the dark concoction has become a cult classic and favorite for many. Perfectly balanced, the scent combines a powdery floral heart of Turkish rose and patchouli with a warm and earthy base of frankincense, cinnamon and sandalwood. Top notes of fresh berries cut through the heaviness.

On first impressions, our tester was taken aback by how unique this scent is. It’s bold yet sophisticated and would appeal to anyone with a mature nose. Once the fragrance warms on the skin, it has a subtly spiced and creamy dry down that becomes more and more addictive as the day goes by. We found that, spritzed onto clothes, the patchouli and rose notes linger for longer, with the overall scent staying put for days. Yes, really! Overall, we’d say that this dark and mysterious rose scent is a real head-turner that’s guaranteed to make a lasting impression.

If you’re a fan of florals, turn your nose to this blooming lovely scent from Gucci. Landing on our shelves back in 2017, this fragrance continues to be one of the brand’s best-sellers with fans waxing lyrical about its fresh aroma, making it one of the most popular perfumes of recent years. “I wanted a green fragrance, a courageous scent that transports you to a vast garden filled with many flowers and plants,” says the nose behind the creation, Alberto Morillas.

And this is exactly what the scent conjures up to us—an English garden in full bloom, damp with morning dew. A celebration of white florals, the scents starring notes including delicate jasmine and creamy tuberose that together smell fresh yet creamy. While certain tuberose fragrances get labelled as ‘old lady’, this one certainly isn’t that. The only downside, however, is the scent's sillage, which is disappointing considering the price point.

When it comes to the best long-lasting perfumes, in Creed we trust. The luxury perfume atelier is renowned for whipping up unique, best-selling perfumes that really do go the distance. And the brand's latest creation, Wind Flowers, is no exception, which is why we reckon it's one of best long-lasting perfumes for the sophisticated lady. Inspired by the strength and grace of a dancer in motion, this new number takes you on a journey with its olfactory notes. A delicate opening of jasmine, orange blossom and peach sets the tone before tuberose petals and rose make an appearance. At its base, creamy praline and musk add depth.

Not stuffy or powdery, this fragrance is well-balanced between fresh and floral with a slightly sweet lingering scent. It’s the sort of scent you can imagine the wearer spritzing onto a crisp white shirt paired with a tailored suit. It smells expensive—and it is expensive—but the staying power is extremely impressive, lasting for 12 hours or more (making the price point slightly more palatable). Our only word of warning is that it is potent and can become cloying or overpowering if spritzed on too liberally.

This is a fragrance that needs no introduction. Baccarat Rouge is a modern-day icon and signature scent for so many. Even if you don’t own a bottle of this luxurious fragrance, I’m pretty sure you will have smelled it somewhere. Sweet, but not sickly sweet, the hypnotic number is well-balanced with a warming, woodsy base that counteracts its candied jam opening. Addicted from first sniff, we can see why this perfume is currently in the top 20 most popular perfumes in the world.

While it does come with a hefty price tag, this beautiful blend is incredibly long-lasting, especially when spritzed onto clothes. We can still detect the scent on our jacket three days after spritzing. It also has impressive sillage and will leave a soft yet sweet trail in its wake. The only pitfall of being so popular is that this scent is instantly recognizable, and we smell it everywhere. So if you’re after something unique that stands out from the crowd, you may be better off with a more niche long-lasting scent instead.

Spicy scents are especially appealing during the winter months and this one, from Jo Malone, is our top cold-weather pick. Like many of the best Jo Malone perfumes, it's cozy and comforting, with a beautiful blend combining heady incense and warm amber with dark florals, smoky black cardamom and fresh ginger. Clean yet warm, this scent is a far cry from those cloying and sickly-sweet numbers that dominated our teenage years. We’d describe this concoction as classy and sophisticated.

We found that on clothes, the longevity was impressive—lasting for 12 hours or more. But on skin, the scent didn’t stick around for long (around five hours). Considering the price point, our tester was a little disappointed with the staying power on skin. With that said, we did invest in the body cream and can safely say that a layer of cream topped off with a misting of the cologne boosted the longevity to no end. If, like us, you adore this scent—treat yourself to the body cream, too for a seriously long-lasting result.

Which type of perfume lasts longest?

According to Eva, two factors determine a perfume's longevity whatever it is, whether you prefer the best vanilla perfumes or the best floral perfumes.

"One is the perfume family that the scent belongs to. For instance, woods, ambers, ouds, and musks will give you longer tenacity in a perfume." The next factor is the strength of the perfume notes. "EDP and Extraits or Parfums will have a higher concentration of ingredients at the base note, making them longer lasting than an EDT or Cologne." Carlo breaks down the differences below.

• Eau de cologne: “These will be the lightest with a 4-6% concentration of perfume oils, many volatile top notes and a very light base note that gives a clean fresh scent that doesn’t stick around. These perfumes are often referred to as 'splash-ons'.” As such, when it comes to the best long-lasting perfumes, these should probably be your last options.
• Eau de toilette: “EDTs are fresh and easy to wear with a big opening and balanced journey through the heart and base notes. They can last between three-to-five hours," Carlo says.
• Eau de parfum: “EDPs tend to concentrate on the heart notes, giving a sensation of luxury," she explains. The concentration of this type of scent tends to be between 15-20%—meaning they'll stick around for five to eight hours.
• Parfum or extraits: “These perfumes concentrate on a rich base note and much shallower top note so they immediately feel sumptuous and opulent, they can last from eight hours onwards depending on the olfactory family they favor," Carlo tells us.

How do you make perfume last longer?

While choosing the best long-lasting perfumes is key, we wanted to know how else can you ensure your signature scent lasts for as long as possible—especially if you're spending all day and night out.

“Moisture is key when it comes to longevity,” Carlo advises. Before you apply your chosen perfume, follow her advice above, and “always use a body moisturizer or oil from the same collection first. Or, if that’s not available, opt for a moisturizer that isn’t scented, so it doesn’t alter the final result.” This will help the perfume to cling onto your skin for that much longer.

Another top tip? Cover all bases and don’t just spritz the scent onto skin. Carlo adds: “Spray your hair and clothing, too; its effects will then last longer.”

Investing in a pair of the best straighteners not only helps with creating impeccable styles, but they’ll also make sure you don’t completely frazzle your hair while styling. But what are the best hair straighteners? To compile our comprehensive guide, an expert beauty editor tested tools to suit a range of hair types and budgets to ensure you find the winning pair to suit you. 

Using heat on your locks can put your hair at risk of damage, making heat protection a must, as high heats and harsh plates can cause your hair to feel dry and brittle. But this doesn’t have to be the case. With new technology and innovative designs, the straightener market has come a really long way since the iconic Carmens that all the cool girls had—and we've reviewed the best of the best below.

For instance, the stand out design from hair tool powerhouse ghd has to be their Platinum+ stylers, which feature ultra-zone technology and a consist 185-degree heat setting—key for keeping colour vibrant, and if you have textured hair, your curls intact (along with one of the best hair dryers for curly hair, of course). We also found the L’Oréal Professionnel Steampod to be a bit of a hidden gem—an in-salon secret for the sleekest finish. It uses steam technology to inject moisture into the hair as it smooths, meaning that hair doesn’t feel dry despite the heat used. 

So, arm yourself with your favourite heat protector and finishing sprays and take a look at our pick of the best hair straighteners to pick from below… 

How we tested the best hair straighteners

To ensure that our edit only includes tools that we can say firsthand are the best straighteners on the market, our expert contributing beauty editor put several models through a rigorous testing process to fully assess their quality and styling capabilities. While testing the models, all of the following factors were taken into account. 

• Ease of use
• Cable length 
• How hair looks and feels after using 
• How long results last 
• Any additional extras—e.g. heat mat, case 
• Design and color options
• Price

The best hair straighteners, reviewed by a beauty editor

Wondering what are the best hair straighteners? Look no further! Probably the most crowd-pleasing straightener on the market, the Platinum+ works across most hair types and conditions. We found that the biggest sticking point is that you can’t change the heat settings. The brand insists that this is because 365°F/185°C is the perfect temperature for a smooth finish that doesn’t cause irreparable damage. But, it doesn’t take into consideration anyone that might just want to use an even lower heat, such as those with finer or bleached hair.

Having said that, the technology in this styler is a game-changer for anyone that normally has to constantly straighten the same bit of hair to rid it of frizz—you can do this in one pass with the Platinum+, because it continually assesses hair's thickness and the amount of hair you're styling and adjusts settings accordingly. This certainly impressed us, and speaks to ghd's authority as a leading hair brand. 

• View at Ulta in the US
• View at Lookfantastic in the UK

Who doesn’t like getting more bang for your buck? This 3-in-1 styler is a great option for when you’re travelling and want to create a wealth of styles and, considering its versatility, it's very reasonably priced.

When testing we did find that you do need to style hair in quite small sections, especially if you have thick hair, as the hair can splay out the sides of this smaller iron if you try to tackle too much hair at a time. However, the plates are made of NanoIonic™ MX technology, which we found helps to keep hair frizz-free and smooth. 

Everything about this straightener feels luxe, from the soft casing, to the touch screen and audio feedback. The ceramic plates offer super smoothing and shine, and the styling is tailored, too! HeatID technology allows you to input your hair texture, length and colour treatments to generate your perfect temperature, meaning there's no one-size-fits-all with his hair straightener.

This is the standout feature, as it makes for a much more unique styling experience, though we would point out that it's not obvious what specific temperature you've been allocated just by looking at the tool. Fortunately a full list of the temperature settings, which range from 260°F/127°C to 410°F/210°C, can be found in the manual. 

The special feature on this hair straightener from Panasonic is the Nanoe™ system, which distributes atomized particles to deliver a hit of hydration as you straighten. This, along with the ceramic plates, make hair feel extremely sleek with just one slow pass—clever technology that certainly impressed our testers.

We did come across a few downsides when testing this particular model, though. The casing of this style is on the clunkier side and it can snag in your hair a little bit if you’re not careful. To avoid this, don’t rush when you're styling your hair, and take small detangled sections one at a time. If you're wondering, what are the best hair straighteners for people always in a hurry? We'd advise you go with another option on this list—while the end results are always well worth it, who can spare time in the mornings?

The first thing that struck us when picking up the Remington HYDRAluxe Pro Straighteners is how lightweight they are, and for the most part they're also easy to manoeuvre, which for us set them up to be a winning pair from the beginning. 

The Hydramist steam is excellent for adding a hydrated softness to the hair, meaning this is a great pick for curly hairstyles in particular. However, because of where it’s located at the base of the product, you have to remember to always straighten with the mist outlet facing down to reap its benefits. We found that you get used to this eventually, but it does require you to build a bit of muscle memory. These straighteners are still one of the best options if you struggle with mobility, though.

This the third iteration on the L’Oréal Steampod, which has previously had the water tank sitting separately to the styler, and we found that the intergration of the water tank on this model makes the straighteners so much easier to use at home. However, it does mean that this model on the bigger side, compared to other tools. In our opinion, though, this is a small price to pay for the sleek results the Steampod creates on all hair types!

If you have curly or coily hair in particular—and, therefore, you are always on the lookout for more curly hair tips—we found that you need to either detangle your hair thoroughly before you start styling or remove the comb completely, so your locks don’t snag or get caught, because it’s so fine toothed. 

If you want to know which models are the best hair straighteners for travel, a pair of cordless straighteners could be a game-changing addition to your styling routine, and these are one of the most reasonably priced wire-free irons we've ever tried. Not only that, these are a good pick for a pair of straighteners that can also wave and curl without any fuss, so this tool ticked our boxes for versatility, too. 

The heat setting can easily be adjusted on the dial, and the floating plates smooth out hair without any kinks. While they aren’t the heaviest straighteners we’ve used, the battery makes then heavier than any corded pair. It would be handy if you could use them while charging though, as the 30 minute charge is limiting and a slight drawback—but it is to be expected with cordless appliances and is fairly standard across the board. 

Looking for an answer for long hair or thick hair? A pair of wide irons should be in your hair tools kit, and these from Cloud Nine are a perfect pick. While the plates aren’t any longer than standard—so you can’t style a bigger section than you usually would—they are are a lot wider than most standard style models, which we found cuts the styling time down significantly, which is perfect for thicker hair.

The only real problem that we came across during the testing process is that you can’t use these to create waves on all hair lengths, as the plates are so wide—creating looser, tumbling waves will only be possible if you have really long hair. 

Rich and intoxicating, the best oud perfumes are powerful and impressive—but also, not for the faint-hearted. These fragrances stand out from the crowd with their heady, warm aroma that’s often described as ‘opulence, bottled’. A polarizing fragrance note, oud enthusiasts love its woody, smoky undertones, making it one of the best perfumes for women if you're looking for something to make a statement. Whether you like oud or not, it’s currently having a moment—and here, contributing beauty expert Emma Stoddart has tested and shared her verdict on the best oud perfumes around.

“Aoud (or oud) comes from a fragrant resin harvested from the heart of the knotted Aquilaria tree, native to Southeast Asia” explains Roja Dove, British perfumer and founder of his eponymous fragrance line. Oud oil is extracted from the wood, which is extremely difficult to do, hence why it’s so expensive. “The oldest aouds will cost thousands of pounds for just a few millilitres,” adds Dove, who’s had the privilege of smelling oud oil that’s 120 years old.

“It is still the scent of choice in the Middle East,” says Roja, “and it’s now firmly established in Western perfumery, too.” Because of its rarity, most fragrances today (even if they have oud in the title), do not contain natural oud. “It has become a name for a style of odor, as it is so very costly,” adds Roja Dove. While several fragrances listed here contain synthetic substitutes, they still manage to conjure up that smoky, woody scent associated with the Middle East. From traditional oud fragrances to more modern iterations, discover our pick of the best oud perfumes, at a range of different price points, below.

How to pick the best oud perfumes for you

According to Eva Carlo, Creed's perfume expert, there are a few factors to consider when choosing the best oud perfume for you, to ensure you decide on the right option. Consider:

• The other ingredients in the perfume: “A good starting point is to see whether the perfume is blended with any other ingredients,” says Eva, “if it is, choose from your favorite florals, woody or even fruity notes.” For instance, if you like the scent of rose, go for an oud and rose concoction. The perfume notes (e.g the other ingredients) will change how the scent comes out, so don't presume that if a perfume says 'oud' on the front, that it will smell how you expect it to.
• Your budget: As mentioned, the best oud perfumes can be some of the more expensive scent options out there, because of the way oud is collected. In fact, one bottle below sells for $500/£500! For this reason, it's important to set your budget and stick to it. Don't be swayed by fancy names if it isn't financially a realistic option for you.
• Testing the perfume: “The only way to really know if it’s for you is to test it first on a blotter and if you like the result, then apply it onto your skin,” says Eva. “If it’s a natural oud, then it will develop in a unique way to you. Wear the fragrance for a day or two before committing to a purchase, as the evolution will be slow, and you want to be sure that you love it until the very end.” If you're buying online, this obviously won't be possible—but if you can, it's well worth popping into a store to sample a tester before buying. 

Best oud perfumes, as reviewed by a beauty editor

Stealing our number one spot in our round-up of the best oud perfumes is Christian Dior Parfums’ Oud Ispahan. An iconic rose and oud concoction, this fragrance is elegant, refined and animalic. Inspired by Persia, the decadent blend combines smoky, woody notes with delicate rose and hints of spice. At first, we were struck by the beautiful scent of rose (that’s more powdery than jammy), before the comforting oud base took over.

Lingering long after spritzing, this is one of the best long-lasting perfumes we've tested, as we found that it stuck around for 12 hours (or more), which is very impressive. Note that a little goes a long way though, and if you spritz on too much, it can become overpowering. Overall, this beautiful blend is a great ‘entry-level’ oud for anyone who’s keen to expand their fragrance wardrobe and experiment with oud. And while it’s expensive, the impressive staying power and complexity of the scent make the price point slightly more palatable, which it's why it's made it to the top spot.

As we mentioned before, oud is an extremely rare and expensive ingredient which is why most oud perfumes (even those containing synthetic substitutes) come with a high price tag. But this one, from Molton Brown (one of the best vegan and cruelty free perfume brands), is far more reasonable. An Eau de Toilette, the longevity and projection aren’t great—but considering the decent price point, we think it’s worth it anyway. Laced with cinnamon, citrus and honey—this oud perfume is warm and comforting without being too heavy.

So, if you’re searching for a lighter oud perfume that’s extremely wearable, this could be the perfect pick for you. Great for the winter months as well as everyday wear, this creamy, smooth and delicate number starts off fresh (thanks to bergamot) before it dries down to a sweet oud and smoky base. Spritz this on whenever you’re in need of a comforting pick-me-up; it's definitely one of the best oud perfumes if you're on more of a budget.

This perfume is for the few, not the many. Costing upwards of £500, it is not an impulsive buy. No, this fragrance needs to be tried and tested, worn on the skin for a day or two, before it’s purchased. An ode to oud, the scent draws inspiration from the Middle East where perfumer Roja Dove spent three years working closely with this rare material to understand its complex nature. Here, Roja pairs oud with creamy florals (specifically rose) and rich spices to create this warm, complex and heady blend.

Dark, mysterious and extremely sensual—we were completely taken by this oud fragrance. It’s beautifully balanced with its citrus-y opening that cuts through the heavy agar wood and leather base. Rose adds a feminine touch while musk, sandalwood and vanilla give this fragrance a smooth and creamy dry down. And it’s the dry down that lingers on the skin, staying put for 12 hours (or more), which demonstrated, once again, a very impressive staying power. There's a reason this oud perfume is such an investment—but if you can truly afford to splurge, it's the ultimate indulgence.

If you’re after a simplistic scent that’s great for everyday wear, turn your nose to this Oud Oriental perfume from Versace. Housed in an opulent gold bottle, this luxurious scent is sophisticated and chic. We can imagine wearing it with a tailored suit and crisp poplin shirt. Alongside oud, the perfume features a bouquet of blooms (think rose, freesia, violet and heliotrope), creamy vanilla and rich leather.

While the name spotlights oud, we found that the floral notes are the real star of the show here. Powdery, soft and ever so slightly sweet, this is a great choice for any floral perfume fanatics. After a while, once the scent warms on the skin, we detected rich leather and smoky oud which together add warmth to this otherwise light fragrance. So if it’s a heady, oud perfume you’re after, we’d suggest looking elsewhere. And it's worth noting that it is a rather pricey choice for how simple and straightforward a fragrance it is. But, if you adore florals and prefer a fresh fragrance, give this one a whirl.

After a new signature scent? Consider this unique blend from Brooklyn-born fragrance brand D.S. & Durga. Confident, loud and complex, this standout scent demands to be noticed with its sensual, smoky and green aroma. At first during testing, we were hit by spicy saffron before the rich oud made an appearance—a combination which we thought just smelt *expensive*, if you know what we mean?

In the background, floral notes (including rose and lavender) add a soft touch to this otherwise powerful concoction. Overall, we’d describe this scent as woody, green and masculine. While the sillage is moderate (the trail of perfume left behind you), the scent does linger on the skin long after spritzing, so you can rely on it to see you through the working day, for example. A great autumn/winter pick, this is a confidence booster in fragrance form.

Guerlain do some of the most popular perfumes around, and we completely understand why. For a fruity twist on a classic rose and oud concoction, turn your nose to this feminine fragrance from the high-end brand. One of three new oud fragrances to join the collection, this scent stands out for its fruity top notes that smell refreshingly bright and sweet—a nice pairing with the muskier oud. Once the fragrance settles on the skin, we detected the strong rose and leather scent that smells dark and sensual.

Great for special occasions and going ‘out out’, we received several compliments while wearing this fragrance during testing, making it one of the most complimented fragrances on our list. When it comes to the cons of this perfume, there weren't many—but while the cherry gives it a unique twist, we would love more cherry in there so that it sticks around for longer. We also found that the fruity opening quickly subsides (after 30 minutes or so), turning into a classic rose and oud concoction that’s not entirely original. With that said, it is still a beautiful blend that smells luxurious and makes you feel good while wearing it (if you can justify the juicy price-tag).

There’s so much to love about this Miller Harris fragrance. A hidden gem, we’re amazed this scent isn’t talked about more—which is why it's firmly on our list of the best oud perfumes. It has the same toasted marshmallow aroma as the beloved Baccarat Rouge 540 from Maison Francis Kurkdijan but with a more masculine edge (thanks to the leather, oud and musk notes). So if you have a sweet tooth when it comes to fragrance, this could very well be your new signature scent.

One of our favorite Miller Harris’ fragrances (and we’ve tried a few), this blend is grown-up, sophisticated with a hint of sweetness that’s not too overpowering. We love how this evolves on the skin, too. Once the initial oud and wood aroma subsides, the sweetness and spice come into its own, getting better with every sniff. Our top tip? Keep this scent to yourself!

Stockholm-based brand Byredo is behind some of our favorite fragrances—including Oud Immortel, our pick for the best simple oud fragrance. But don't be fooled—it's anything but basic. Extremely wearable and very distinctive, this masculine concoction is entirely unique with its sharp citrus opening that settles down to a woody base with a hint of oud. Simple and refreshing, this fragrance is inspired by the most traditional use of incense, and was created as a tribute to oud.

For those of us who already have a penchant for the note, give this scent a spritz. Oud is detectable from start to finish and pairs so well with the rosewood, patchouli, moss and tobacco leaves. The overall medley is smoky, woody and fresh. Our only gripe is the price point, which is a lot considering the moderate to weak silage and projection.  

Creating a capsule wardrobe is a brilliant way to avoid dressing indecision and can make dressing for any event easy, efficient and so much more fun. You'll never feel like you have nothing to wear again and you'll get more wear out of each item you own—win-win. 

Creating a capsule wardrobe is all about finding pieces you love that you can wear together in different combinations on rotation and for different seasons. You'll have an array of outfits at your disposal, with minimal effort required on your part. Think slipping on a roomy midi skirt with cosy knit and boots for fall, or pairing your favorite summer midi dress with a classic pair of flats or sandals on warmer days.

Whatever you wear, it's important that it suits you and your lifestyle. We all know that an on-trend outfit that feels comfortable has the power to massively boost our mood, sour team of expert fashion editors has broken down exactly how to create a capsule wardrobe in 2023 to make this your most stylish year yet.

Meet the experts in creating a capsule wardrobe

• Karen Williams is an expert celebrity stylist who has dressed big names like Beyoncé and David Beckham, and has had her own make-under show on Netflix. She's advised readers on how to style some of the key pieces in a capsule wardrobe. 
• Ashley Burghardt is the UK Styling Director for personal styling service Stitch Fix, and has shared some top tips for building a capsule wardrobe.  
• Harriet Saywood-Bellisario is the founder of slow fashion brand Saywood. She has also given My Imperfect Life readers advice on building that coveted capsule wardrobe for summer.

What is a capsule wardrobe?

The term capsule wardrobe was coined in London in the 1970s by wardrobe consultant and author Susie Furst. However, Business of Fashion reports that it was brought to the masses when Donna Karan made the idea of condensing closets popular.

A capsule wardrobe is essentially a curated selection of pieces that, fundamentally, all complement each other and that can be put combined to create lots of different outfits. It's the practice of editing down your wardrobe to your most-loved pieces only and wearing them in several different ways.

What are the benefits of having a capsule wardrobe?

There are many benefits to having a capsule wardrobe:

• You'll spend less on clothes: If you have go-to options for every eventuality, you're much less likely to panic-buy that ASOS purchase right before a big event.
• It'll take significantly less time to get dressed: A capsule wardrobe means you have stylish options whatever you're dressing for, so you can find an outfit much faster than if you had to sift through racks of clothes. And, less clothes means your wardrobe will also be much less cluttered.
• Better for the environment: A considered wardrobe means you're far less likely to buy new or throw away any items, unless they really no longer match your personal style. This is much more sustainable, and the antithesis of fast fashion.

Shop our capsule wardrobe edit

We've curated our favorite stylish picks to add to your capsule wardrobe...

1. White t-shirt

Basic jersey tops can work with any number of outfits, and a white t-shirt really is a capsule wardrobe must-have. They can be styled with almost anything, be it a pair of trousers, a blazer or a midi skirt.

Plus, they can be dressed up or down too, meaning they work whether you're heading into the office or out for brunch. Everlane, Levi's and H&M are great places to find well-cut white tees.

Wear with: Trousers, jeans, midi skirt, jackets

2. Lightweight shirt

Shirts are great for all-year round—to wear with trousers and a knit in the winter or for layering over a slip dress or tank top and midi skirt in the summer.

Neutral colors will, of course, serve you well, but don't feel obliged to play it safe—bright hues will make a big impact and are an easy way to add a pop of color to an otherwise neutral outfit. 

3. A midi skirt

Midi skirts are great for dressing up an outfit in the colder months—wear with boots and tights and your go-to top or sweater. A great and easy way to add some color into your outfit—hello dopamine dressing—midi skirts can be paired with almost anything.

Whatever your style, there's a midi skirt option for you. Some of our favorite designs include the following:

• An elegant satin midi skirt that's perfect for work or play
• A pleated or floaty midi skirt you can dress up or down
• A pencil skirt, for those who need to dress smarter for work

4. Classic jeans

No wardrobe (capsule or otherwise) is complete without a classic pair of jeans. They'll go with just about anything else you own, so they're a versatile basic you won't want to forego. Decide, based on your personal style, which cut of jeans you like best.

• Flattering high waist jeans that suit everyone
• Mid-rise 90s-style jeans (bang on-trend right now)
• Relaxed 'mom' jeans that are ideal for weekend outings
• Straight-leg jeans for more formal days/events

Skinny jeans have fallen a bit in the style stakes recently in favor of looser cuts, but your capsule wardrobe is yours; if they're still your chosen fit, go for it!

Make sure you have at least two pairs of jeans to hand, and decide on the wash you prefer too—do you lean more towards a dark or a light denim?

Wear with: T-shirts, jumpers, shirts, blouses, tank tops—anything goes!

5. Tailored trousers

Tailored trousers are ideal for those days when you have to go out to work but you can't deal with a skirt or dress and just want something comfy, warm and easy.

Wider, looser trouser styles have made a firm comeback, so they would make great options, while white jeans and cropped trousers are firm favorites for more casual looks—even in the winter months.

Again, opt for a pair in a neutral block color to ensure they'll go with any dress, jumper, or tee in your wardrobe. Worried a wider fit will look oversized? Pair them with a more fitted top and belt them at the waist.

6. A midi dress

We've had midi skirts, now, it's the turn of midi dresses—not just one of the best summer dresses around but perfect for winter too.

Midi dresses are incredibly versatile and can work just as well in the office as they would for dinner with friends. Williams tells us: "I love a dress as they can be layered and styled differently, but ultimately they are one-stop shops—and we all want easy!"

Simply swap out your shoes and jackets to dress the style up or down. And if you're wondering about the best style for work? Look to wrap dresses. Not only can they be worn loosely if desired, but they also look cool layered over t-shirts, thin knits, or even over tapered trousers for a fresh take.

7. A stylish blazer

Every wardrobe should feature at least one blazer, but they needn't be sharply cut or made from rigid fabrics. Instead, look for fluid styles that will elevate all your attire to chic new heights.

Good staple colors to have to hand are a neutral beige or black—but any color will work depending on the rest of your existing wardrobe. A blazer is incredibly versatile. Williams said, "A blazer, depending on the cut and fabric, is timeless and versatile—styled correctly you can wear it all year round."

Top tip: look to the menswear section and size up for the cool-girl insouciance

8. Elegant flats

If you're generally on your feet for a lot of the day, a pair of heels just isn't practical, making a pair of elegant flats the perfect solution. 

A pointed toe never fails to look fancy, and a flat sole makes them almost as comfortable as your trusty Uggs. Again, it's probably best to opt for neutral colors when it comes to your shoes, so you can play more with color in the rest of your outfit.

9. Smart sneakers

Fun fact: it was recently revealed that there are now more women purchasing sneakers than men. With comfort firmly on the list of requirements, no capsule wardrobe is complete without the addition of a stylish pair of sneakers.

You still need to keep things looking smart though, so no tatty running trainers here please—we’re talking sneakers that stay well in the fashion lane. Good options include:

• A classic pair of white kicks that go with anything—think sustainable Veja's, Vans, or Superga shoes
• An on-trend chunky trainer, such as the Eytys Angel’s
• Something casual like the noughties fave Converse
• A minimalist sports shoe such as Adidas' Stan Smiths

10. Timeless, stylish jewelry

Never underestimate the way that well-chosen jewelry—especially from sustainable jewelry brands—can enhance both your outfit and your mood. A pair of simple gold hoop earrings can make you feel more in control (it works for Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, after all). A chain necklace is also ideal for dressing up your more simple basics, and for injecting a bit of your sartorial personality into your outfits.

A pair of the best huggie earrings—whether gold ones or silver huggie earrings to suit your style—are great for wearing everyday. Choose something from one of our best affordable jewelry brands if you're on a budget.

11. A 'goes-with-everything' bag

Whether you're dressing for style or practicality (or both), a bag that will match with most—if not all—of your other wardrobe essentials is vital. Adding a bag is a small detail that'll make your outfits feel more pulled together and considered, and of course, they can obviously be helpful if you're on the go all day. Consider whether you need:

• An oversized tote, for storing plenty of items
• A fun cross-body bag, for storage on-the-go
• A clutch for professional and social events
• A backpack for laid-back chic
• A glitzy party bag for events

It's important to consider your lifestyle with this one—for example, don't gather up a load of clutch bags if you never attend events that warrant one. Choose the chicest and most practical options for you, and make sure you have at least two or three go-tos in your closet.

How to create a capsule wardrobe in 2023

The last decade has seen a lot of change in the fashion industry as online shopping allowed us to consume faster and in bigger quantities, making it easier to shop each and every trend that pops up throughout the year.

But while noughties technology took us to the peak of consumerism, the sustainable movement of the last few years has seen many of us try to be more mindful of the earth and make an effort to live more sustainably each day. So many of us are going from shopping every single seasonal trend and adding each little deal we see to our ASOS bag to trying to live more minimalistically for the environment and decluttering our minds and spaces.

Creating a capsule wardrobe in 2023 is all about curating a collection of evergreen staples that can last throughout the year (and for years to come), while peppering it with more seasonal essentials like sandals or winter coats. While there are no hard and fast rules, we have a few helpful tips on building the best capsule wardrobe for you. Overall, it's more about personal style than it is about fashion trends. Your closet should help you feel confident and ready to face the day.

1. Invest in good quality basics

Spending a little more money on good quality and minimal basics can ensure that they last for years and that they work with a number of different looks.

2. Consider your everyday activities

"To build a capsule wardrobe, you have really look at what you do in your life, and focus on a collection for your main activities—otherwise you have a pieces in your wardrobe which will never get worn," says Karen Williams, an expert stylist seen on ITV's This Morning. So for example, do you spend 80% of your time in the office, and the other 20% relaxing at home? If so, be honest with yourself and ditch most of those fancy wear-once party outfits—you just don't need them.

3. Choose trends carefully

Of course it's fun to follow trends but it's not always necessary to shop them all. If a trend pops up that seems relatively evergreen and can be worn in a number of different ways—like high-waisted trousers—then go for it. But something like cut-out dresses is probably one that won't last, so better left out of your capsule wardrobe.

MIL's step-by-step guide to creating a capsule wardrobe

1. Practice dressing from a capsule wardrobe

Practice dressing from a capsule wardrobe by picking out 10 pieces of staple clothing and then make up different outfits for the upcoming week from just those 10 pieces. Just remember to check the upcoming weather conditions first!

2. Have a clear out

A clear out of your wardrobe is essential. We'd recommend starting with chucking out anything that you haven't worn for the last year and then going from there. Try on all of your clothes and anything that doesn't fit or that you're unsure of, get rid of. Ensure that you love every piece in your wardrobe.

Try to make your clear out more sustainable too and ensure that things don't end up in landfill by giving away your pieces to friends and family who would wear them, finding a charitable donation bank or even upcycling them to sell or regift. Our guide on how to declutter responsibly has a wealth of suggestions for where you can donate and recycle.

3. Plan what you want to include in your capsule wardrobe

Make a plan of what you want your capsule wardrobe to include. We've made some suggestions in our list, but all those pieces might not be necessary for everybody.

You don't need to stick to a number, but around 37 items is a popular choice—the idea is to have 37 items in your closet which you'll wear for the next three months. In this period, you won't shop for new clothes until the last two weeks of the season. This is when you'll plan for the next capsule.

4. Identify your wardrobe gaps

Having a capsule wardrobe is about being sustainable and living with less rather than more, so it would be counter-intuitive to just head out on a big shopping spree of everything you want to include.

Stitch Fix’s UK Styling Director, Ashley Burghardt, advises, "First, locate the items you love and wear the most and remove all of the unworn pieces. You’ll immediately have a clear idea of what may be missing." For example, do you have tons of jeans, but very few dresses for the winter months?

5. Shop slowly

Don't buy everything in one go. Take your time to consider what pieces you really want to buy and only make a purchase if, one—it ticks off a box for something that you wanted to include in your capsule wardrobe curation, and two—it's something that you absolutely love and will be able to wear in a multitude of ways.

Choose quality items that work for you, not that follow trends—Harriet Saywood-Bellisario, founder of slow fashion brand Saywood, says, "Timelessness is different for everyone;  we are not talking about trend pieces. Try things on, find what fits you best, what works for your body shape, and look for good quality fabrics that will last. You want these pieces to be versatile; pieces that will work with multiple items in your wardrobe, outfits and occasions.

Saywood-Bellisario also suggests taking time to experiment— playing about with your capsule wardrobe initially, to see what works. She said, "Take some time to try on your wardrobe, testing different pieces with each other. See what works for you and what brings you joy—because that's what will radiate each day.

There you have it—choose the items in your capsule wardrobe carefully, remembering that the selection should be as slim as possible. If you can't quickly pair something with other items on the list, it probably doesn't belong there.

You'll likely have a lot of trial and error when building your capsule wardrobe, but don't panic; keep it simple and enjoy the process without being too hard on yourself! 

Easy to wear, the best gold huggie earrings make for an ideal style lift. Whether you love simple gold hoops or you are a full curated ear fan, they’re an ever-popular earring essential.

For those who prefer gold jewelry, the best huggie earrings in this finish are a staple part of a capsule wardrobe. Choose between simple styles or those adorned with bright gemstones, pearls, spikes, and statement designs, designed to be worn in different piercings.

To inspire your accessories shopping session, our contributing fashion expert handpicked some of the chicest styles on the market. All price points are covered, so you can shop a special treat or stick within your budget, stack and layer, adding in gorgeous gold huggies to dial up the ear drama (whatever your day looks like).

How we chose the best gold huggie earrings 

There are so many different gold huggie earrings on the market that it can feel overwhelming when you first start browsing. To compile this curated edit of styles for you to shop from, our fashion expert took the following factors into account when making her selection:

• Price
• Type and quality of materials used
• Finish
• Brand's credentials

To ensure that all budgets and preferences are catered for, she also chose a wide variety of different styles and price points to feature in our guide. Without further ado, these are the best gold huggie hoops to shop now...

The best gold huggie earrings as chosen by a fashion expert 

A pair of show-stopping jewel-detailed huggies, these chic Missoma must-haves are 18ct gold-plated vermeil with gemstone detailing. The hoop size is just over 11mm, while they weigh just shy of 1.5g. Design-wise, they add a nice "something" to your ear without having too intricate or over-the-top of a design, and they also come with a two-year warranty. 

Call us earring enablers, but we’re in no doubt whatsoever that this pretty design will look stunning in your lobes. The ultimate detailed gold huggie pair, wear these alongside hoops, cuffs, or studs, layering, stacking, and making an ear jewelry scene.

If you're looking for sustainable jewelry brands, these gold-plated hoops are made using recycled sterling silver. The slightly waved design is very understated and chic, meaning they'll complement just about any other earring choices (and they're also available in silver or rose gold, should you be interested in shopping the best silver huggie earrings, too).

Although they're also available in jeweled and enamel-coated styles, they might be too simple for some tastes—such as those who are after pieces with a more intricate design—but we think they make the perfect addition to any budding jewelry collection. 

Animal motif jewelry is taking center stage this season, so these black-eyed cobra snake huggies are on-trend beauties. Made up of 18 ct gold plated recycled sterling silver with glittering black onyx stones, the inner diameter is 6mm. A neatly fitting pair, they do fit best in piercings not set too high up the lobe—although we admit that, while we love this edgier design, it won't be to all tastes.

Pair with cuffs and other huggies for maximum style impact. Arriving complete with a gift box too, click the huggies tightly in place with their secure fastening. Go on, let these cobra snakes loose on your earlobes.

Combine bright turquoise stones with dangling chain detail, courtesy of ear candy experts Seol & Gold. A lighter way to wear drop earrings, they are made with 18ct yellow gold plated sterling silver. Sold as a pair, the huggie element has clear crystals and an inside diameter of 6.5mm. Dangling down is a double-loop chain, with three bezel-set synthetic turquoise stones.

This style is particularly ideal if you prefer lightweight earrings, and a drop-down effect, they are comfy to wear. Plus, these colorful chain huggies arrive presented in a signature S&G cotton bag with a ribbon tie.

Huggies don’t have to be circular, and we heart this crystal bejeweled pair. These 9ct gold huggie hoops feature clear cubic zirconia stones running along one half of the design for a nice added extra. With a height of 13mm and width of 14mm, the band itself is a delicate 1mm. 

Despite this tiny measurement, their heart-shaped hinge is secure and clicks into place without bending, and their size means they hang looser on the lobe, but are lightweight enough to be comfortable. The cutesy design won't be everyone's favorite, but this is an extra special buy—insert heart emoji here.

With an inner diameter of 10mm, these brass based gold plated huggies have a 10mm drop pearl detail. Pearls emerging as a standout theme for this season and beyond, adorning your ears is a subtle nod. A delicate pair of pearl huggies, wear alone or toughen up the look by pairing with chunkier jewelry.

Stylish and really wearable, they’re a classic choice. Double up on insta-worthy trends, showcasing only one single pearl drop huggie earring, alongside a stud in your other lobe.

For those who remove their body hair, one of the best IPL hair removal devices can make a great addition to the at-home grooming routine. Not only can these tools achieve expert removal but they can also reduce regrowth and save you time in the long run.

IPL devices work by firing rapidly flashing light at melanin (the pigment) in your hair follicles, which converts to heat beneath the skin. This damages the hair at the root, almost "putting it to sleep". Not only is the existing hair removed, regrowth is also reduced—a clear upgrade from hair removal creams. 

It's important to highlight that most IPL devices are not suitable for very dark skin tones (our guide to hair removal for dark skin covers the best methods), or combinations of very light blonde or auburn hair and very light skin. This is due to the lack of contrast between skin and hair color. In our in-depth guide, we’ve covered further need-to-knows about IPL hair removal as well as the best at-home devices our beauty expert tested firsthand. 

Current deals on our best IPL hair removal devices

To make your shopping easier, right now you can snag bargains on some of our top IPL hair removal device picks...

How to choose the best IPL hair removal device for your needs

Meet the experts on IPL air removal devices

• Jess Gregory is consumer marketing manager for Philips Beauty, an industry leader in health and wellbeing technology. Ahead, she explains the difference between IPL and laser hair removal.
• Emily Buckwell is product expert at CurrentBody, an online retailer for salon-quality at-home tools. Here she breaks down how this method works and what you can expect from the results when using one of the best IPL hair removal devices.

When shopping for an IPL device, whether you're looking to make your first purchase or upgrade an existing tool, there are a few different factors to consider to help you find the right one for you and your needs that also fits your budget.

• Area of use: Look for one suited to larger areas if you are targeting legs, for example.
• Budget: Have an idea of this before browsing, then work out which features you can get for your money.
• Extra features: Such as built-in guides, unique technology, or a smartphone app.

The best IPL hair removal devices as reviewed by a beauty expert

Probably the simplest tool in our edit of the best IPL hair removal devices from a user experience point of view, mainly because there are only three settings to content with—"gentle", "speed", and "power". This device does, however, still include that all-important built-in skin sensor to adjust the light intensity based on skin tone, so there’s no scrimping on safety—which is especially handy if you have naturally drier skin.

Again, the glide mode gets speedier results on larger areas, but I really liked the stamp mode on this device, as it was easy to slowly and precisely use on my upper lip and underarms. I definitely saw a noticeable difference in hair regrowth after eight weeks. If I could make one change to the device it would be to make it cordless, but overall, it's pretty great. 

This chic, matte forest green gadget may look closer to the Dyson Supersonic than a hair removal tool, but it's the only one here that targets both unwanted hair and skin aging (useful if you're trying to compare the JOVS Venus Pro vs Philips Lumea). It comes with six attachments and can be used on both the face and the body. It's another with a built-in skin sensor that checks skin tone suitability before use. 

The device is pleasingly technical; I found the 180° rotating head makes tackling harder-to-reach areas like the backs of the legs far more comfortable, while cooling technology numbs the area you're treating, for an almost pain-free experience. I also loved the red-light mode, which boosts skin cell repair and collagen production for plumper and smoother skin with time—like two salon treatments in one super gadget. And with 500k flashes, there’s enough for a lifetime's worth of treatments, so you're set for a very long time. 

This device has a huge 10 different intensity settings—double that of many competitor tools—including a gentle mode for sensitive skin and a Venus razor. I found the body attachment covers larger areas in a short space of time, which made testing this particular device much easier. In fact, speed is what sets it apart from other at-home hair removal tools.

There are two treatment modes, "stamp" and "glide". The latter speeds up the process by delivering more flashes to larger body parts, like the legs—appealing to those short on time and nervous newbies. I was neither, but when you can tackle the bikini line in minutes, I think it’s a godsend. It treated both of my legs in under five minutes on the lowest setting, which I thought was pretty impressive. My hair was also sparser after eight weeks. Equipped with over two decades' worth of flashes, I deem it a worthy investment. 

Most IPL devices resemble a nineties hair dryer (AKA, kinda bulky). But Silk'n's teeny tool is different—more like a computer mouse. Despite this, it has some pretty impressive features. For me, the standout was "eHPL", essentially a combination of galvanic energy with standard light energy. The first briefly widens pores so that the IPL reaches hair follicles more easily. It doesn’t feel any different on the skin, but is designed to make the treatment less painful and prevent ingrown hairs—which I can confirm it achieved. This treats body hair in 20 minutes which, according to the brand, is twice as fast as usual. 

It's another tool with a built-in sensor to check skin tone and hair color compatibility and ensure the device emits the correct light pulse. You can also use a paired smartphone app to set out a treatment plan. I noticed a reduction in hair growth and thickness after the initial four weeks, though this was more noticeable by around 12. I thought the ergonomics of the machine were a downside, however, as I didn't find it all that easy to hold; you have to simultaneously touch the metal base at the back and press the button on the top during use. This felt unnecessarily fiddly and increased my overall treatment time. 

The Sensilight Pro has a built-in sensor to allow it to customize settings to your skin tone and hair color. But it takes this to a new level by continuously reacting to your skin's tone and condition, even if you have dark spots. If the sensors detect that skin in one particular area is too dark, no flash will be emitted—a nice added safety measure that I found very reassuring. There are six energy levels and two attachment heads included, one for the face and one for the body. 

The tool also features a "glide mode", meaning you don’t have to continuously press the button and wait for a "click" before zapping your area of choice. This quickens the process as you only have to move the handset up and down—handy when tackling larger areas like the legs. The longer I used this tool, the more impressed I became, though if I'm being extremely fussy I’d raise one drawback: the device’s bulkiness. The overall design is quite cumbersome and heavy, and I found it a little difficult to change between the attachment heads. 

With sleek lines and advanced technology, this device is also easy to use. Targeting the body and the face (attachment depending), it has five light settings and, once the head is slotted into place, a built-in sensor selects the right one for your skin tone and sensitivity. This is both reassuring and practical, removing any guesswork for those not familiar with the Fitzpatrick scale for skin tone and hair color. The device treats naturally dark blonde, brown, and black hair on very white to brown skin tones, while a free app offers both advice and the option to create a tailored treatment schedule for each area. The reminders really helped me to stick to my routine and made my at-home treatments feel very bespoke—a bit like an affordable alternative to laser hair removal.

The curved attachments are easy to maneuver, and the device is especially ergonomic around the bikini line, which wasn’t the wince-inducing experience I expected. Philips claims the device can achieve results in as little as four treatments, and that additional sessions further reduce regrowth. And it delivered—I used the device for a full 12 weeks on my armpits, legs, bikini line, and even my upper lip. Most have stopped growing back altogether, and those that have are definitely finer. Despite the large price tag, it's cheaper than a course of salon treatments, so I think it's worth it.

Everything to know about how IPL hair removal works

What is IPL?

IPL stands for intense pulsed light, a broad-spectrum light that is scattered across the skin to help remove body hair. The level of discomfort varies—for some, IPL will feel hot on the skin, while others compare it to being flicked with an elastic band. Most rate IPL as much less painful than epilating, but if you experience any irritation you should seek medical advice.

How does IPL work?

"IPL transfers light energy to the hair shaft," Emily Buckwell, product expert at CurrentBody, explains. "Once absorbed, this light energy is converted to heat, which prevents further hair growth. As our hair grows in cycles, you will need to repeat the treatments until you eventually catch each phase of growth, resulting in a reduction in hair over time."

Laser hair removal vs IPL: the key differences

IPL is often confused with laser hair removal because both methods target the melanin in the hair follicle. But as Jess Gregory, consumer marketing manager at Philips Beauty points out: "They are two different light technologies." While laser uses a single, concentrated beam of light, “IPL  progressively reduces hair regrowth by applying gentle pulses of broad-spectrum light and heat to the root. This means that larger areas of skin can be treated with IPL, while laser only works point by point." We've explained more about laser hair removal vs IPL in our dedicated guide. 

Is IPL hair removal permanent?

IPL results aren’t permanent, but the hair will grow back finer and more slowly—some people even find that the hair doesn't grow back at all. "What IPL does offer is permanent hair reduction, depending on its color, density, and texture," Buckwell notes. 

"To see results you need to carry out regular at-home treatments for at least eight weeks, followed up with top-up sessions to maintain results. Hair can grow back due to hormonal changes like childbirth and menopause, but having a device at home means not forking out for further salon sessions."

How long does it take to see IPL results?

The best IPL hair removal devices should be used regularly for 4–12 weeks to ensure that all the hair has been treated. Typically, body hair requires treatment every two weeks for the first four weeks, then once every four weeks from then on. Top-up sessions can then be done where and when there is any regrowth.

Any hair expert will tell you that using one of the best hair dryers for curly hair with a diffuser is a one-way ticket to healthy-feeling, defined curls. Which is exactly why our experts have tested some of the top hair dryers on the market to see which are best suited to curly hair—but first, a little expert insight into why they're so important.

Much like the best brushes for curly hair, you want something that will work well with your hair type specifically. "I'm a massive advocate of using hairdryers for curly hair for a couple of reasons," says Mason Josh, stylist at London's Hari's Salon. "Drying your hair naturally isn't reliable, as the results will always be different due to external factors that are likely to cause frizz, like the weather or daily activities.

"A dryer and diffuser gives you more control over creating defined curls and it’s therefore much less likely to frizz," he continues. "I've found a hair dryer is the best styling tool to get great curls every time." In this expertly-tested guide, a beauty editor shares her thoughts on the top tools on the market. 

Meet the experts on hair dryers for curly hair

The best hair dryers for curly hair, tested by a beauty expert

How we tested the best hair dryers for curly hair

When testing these tools, our curly-haired tester dried her hair with each option multiple times to assess its performance, always using the compatible diffuser attachments from each brand, and took all of the following factors into account.

• Cost
• Number of heat settings 
• Number of speed settings 
• Cool shot function
• Size and feel of compatible diffuser
• If the diffuser came with the dryer or has to be purchased separately
• Whether any other attachments are available 
• Any advanced or unique technology
• Cable length

Our edit of the best hair dryers for curly hair

The holy grail of hair dryers. Complete with a Dyson digital motor to ensure fast drying, the Supersonic's Air Multiplier™ technology also creates quality airflow that isn't harsh on your strands. Temperature is measured more than 40 times per second for optimum control, while negative ions work to reduce static to reduce any excess frizz. 

The downside is, of course, the price tag—price-wise the Supersonic is at the top end of the best hair dryers for curly hair by some way. This price tag does at least include five different attachments that cater to all types of curls; a diffuser (admittedly on the small side), a wide tooth comb, flyaway smoother, gentle air attachment and two different concentrated nozzles. Many other dryer diffusers have to be purchased separately to the dryer, making this model better value than first glance might have you believe. We did find that the lowest heat setting is still kinda hot when you hold the diffuser against the scalp, and the cool setting could be colder. But those aren’t deal breakers and, all in all, this combination is the best of the best. 

See our full Dyson Supersonic Hair Dryer review for an in-depth look at this high-tech dryer

Another techy model, the Helios is the successor to ghd's best-selling Air dryer. It features Aeroprecis™ technology, which translates as its internal aerodynamics resulting in a (surprisingly) lighter styling tool and a faster, shinier blow dry. It's another that makes use of ionic technology to help promote healthy hair. 

The dryer is very powerful—75mph powerful, to be precise—so we’d definitely recommend using it on the lower of the two speed settings if you’re drying your hair curly. When used with ghd's diffuser, which, like the comb attachment , has to be purchased separately, the contoured nozzle is great for creating a smooth and sleek finish, as many of the five-star reviewers on ghd's website will attest to. Those with finer, more flyaway-prone hair may find this dryer to be a little too powerful to get the best definition, but it leaves hair looking nice and healthy and the diffuser creates a good level of volume—ideal for creating the best curly hairstyles.

It's totally understandable if the thought of spending over 100 dollars or pounds on a new hair dryer makes you wince—or if it's simply not financially possible. They are an investment and not one that everybody is able to shell out a lot of money on. It's therefore always great when more affordable tools like the BaByliss Hydro-Fusion Dryer deliver good results for curls. This model comes with that all-important diffuser (as well as a concentrated nozzle) and has worked in ionic technology in the form of a "moisture balancing" system, which utilizes both positive and negative ions to keep your curls defined and soft.

Despite its budget-friendly price tag, we were still impressed by the volume and reduced frizz that the Hydro-Fusion yielded, something BaByliss has proven with its own testers. In a two-week trialing period overseen by the brand, 86% of consumers said that their hair looked less frizzy and felt silkier, while 83% reported that their hair looked in better condition. Impressive!

Our curly-haired tester used this model religiously for years as it's excellent in cutting down frizz (which, in the rainy UK, is an ongoing battle). An internal microchip controls its heat, adjusted very quickly when you change settings. The actual dryer might feel a bit plasticky considering its price tag—ditto with the diffuser, which again is only available to buy separately—but we forgive this because of its results. 

One thing that impressed us is the seriously impressive auto shut-off feature. If for some reason you need to pause your drying session, placing the dryer down for a few seconds prompts it to switch itself off, thanks to a light sensor that's located on the handle. This is also its most annoying feature as, if your fingers aren’t covering that spot, the dryer will turn off mid-blow dry—though you soon get used to this and adapt your holding position. As for curly hair tips, the volume boost function is great for hair that is easily weighed down, and the diffuser is a great size. We're fans. 

Remington's Hydraluxe Pro model comes with two narrow nozzles (ding) as well as the matching diffuser (ding). The diffuser is a great size, but the teeth are shorter than its depth, meaning you can't scoop up sections of hair or hold them in place as easily as with other attachments. 

The big draw about this particular tool, though, is its "Hydracare" function. Using the dryer with this switched on means that the temperature is controlled to ensure you'll inflict no extra heat damage on your strands than if you'd left your hair to air dry, even if you're using it with one of the best brushes for curly hair. Impressive, no? It isn't the most powerful-feeling model out there, but it does leave hair feeling nice and soft, no doubt thanks to the moisture lock conditioners that are released into the dryer's airflow while you dry. As with many tools in this round-up, it's another that utilizes ionic technology to get that smoother finish.

At the risk of using an over-used expression, the Zuvi Halo is genuinely a game-changer with regards to its technology (you may have heard it be referred to as the "Tesla of hair dryers"), because it dries with light rather hot air alone. For that reason, we found it to yield a very gentle drying experience, and also incredibly energy efficient—it has a wattage of just 680, while most traditional dryers exceed 1,000, if not 2,000. 

The Halo dryer comes with three different attachments, one of which is a decent diffuser that makes for lovely defined curls. However, one downside is that, apart from the cool shot, there is only one temperature settings, and the four styling settings don't vary all that much in terms of speed. It is also very expensive, so not one to be purchased on a whim, but if you want something cool and technologically advanced this is a very luxe-feeling tool that'll have a similar effect on your strands. 

What to look for in the best hair dryers for curly hair

A good dryer that's well looked after will last years, so it's a worthy investment—especially when you consider how many times you'll use it. The best buys for curly hair types will have advanced technology and compatible attachments such as a diffuser, which distributes the air more evenly to preserve definition, and a comb, which directs air into the roots and is great for tighter coils, on offer. "The best dryer I’ve used is the ghd Air, which has its own diffuser," Mason says. "The Dyson diffuser is great, too." Below are the key things you should look for when shopping for one.

• Accompanying diffuser: The best diffusers for curly hair are bowl-shaped attachments disperse air more evenly for gentler drying, reduced frizz, and improved definition. "Look for one that has a good amount of prongs (or fingers) and holes," Thompson advises. "This will disperse the air flow evenly throughout while keeping the curls separated. The ghd Helios hairdryer and diffuser are a match made in heaven!"
• Multiple speed settings: As a rule, all good hair dryers should have multiple speed settings to choose from. A slower speed yields less excess frizz in curls (though we don't always have the luxury of time for drying), while faster settings are also useful for sleeker and straighter styles. It's good to have options!
• Multiple heat settings: Similar to the above, multiple heat settings give you more flexibility and you can opt to use less extreme heat on your curls. "You should look for a dryer that has a diffuser attachment and also temperature control,” Jones says. "The Dyson Supersonic is great for this, as it has an added benefit of built-in temperature control, which doesn’t allow the dryer to overheat."
• Cool shot function: Important on any dryer as it cools down your strands and sets your style. "A good, powerful hair dryer that has a good temperature control and a cool shot is a must," Thompson confirms. 
• Smoothing technology: Helps to look moisture into your curls to keep them as healthy as possible; if you're blow drying your hair into a straighter style, it'll also help promote sleekness.  

The best foundations for acne-prone need to tick several boxes to be able to call themselves the "best". Not only do they need to provide decent coverage without making skin look cakey, they should also absorb excess oil without drying out your skin and—most importantly—not trigger breakouts or worsen existing spots, leaving skin looking and feeling healthy.

Your gut may tell you to reach for the best foundation with full coverage when your skin acts up, doing so can may make your skin even angrier. "Unless you need heavier makeup for specific purposes, I generally suggest lighter formulations, such as CC creams or even tinted sunscreen—some are specially formulated for acne-prone skin," says London-based dermatology fellow Dr. Bernard Ho.

It's therefore important to closely examine a formula before using it to ensure that it's not loaded with heavy or pore-clogging ingredients—even when shopping on a budget and perusing the best drugstore foundations. To pinpoint the most suitable buys, our expert beauty contributor tested those that claim to suit acne-prone skin and reviewed how well they perform. 

Meet the experts on foundation for acne-prone skin

The best foundations for acne-prone skin, as reviewed by a beauty editor

How we tested the best foundations for acne-prone skin

For those doing battle with acne or blemish-prone skin, the best non-comedogenic foundations make an ideal match because they don't contain pore-clogging ingredients. Or the best foundations for combination skin are great if different areas of your skin act differently. And if you're on a budget, plenty of drugstore options nowadays also play well with blemished skin, provided they're suited to this skin type.

Below you'll find all of the acne-prone skin foundations I deem it worth knowing about, from luxury picks to dry skin saviors. When putting these formulations through their paces I wore each one at least twice for a full day, focusing particularly on the following factors. 

• Formula
• Range and number of shades 
• Finish
• Ease of application
• How long it lasted on the skin
• Packaging
• Price 

I also made sure that I tested a broad range of foundations including popular formulas that are well known for being specifically for acne-prone skin, newer products, and some underdogs that—although not necessarily marketed for acne-prone skin—could still prove very suitable. Below is my edit of those that came out on top as the best foundations for acne-prone skin. 

• View full shade range at Sephora in the US
• View full shade range at Boots in the UK

Finding a formula to disguise acne without visibly drying out spots and that still feels light on the skin and that's comfortable to wear is no mean feat. But this makeup bag staple is the embodiment of makeup artist François NARS' famous ethos: "makeup shouldn't cover your skin—it should enhance your natural beauty, not mask it". Loaded with skin-loving ingredients it strikes the balance of being gentle on problem areas while still evening out your complexion. For a formula that’s billed as sheer, I found it has an impressive level of pigment and coverage. This is a must for concealing blemishes or scarring, as you don't need to apply a lot of product (or run the risk of foundation pilling) to do so. The finish is also slightly dewy, leaving skin looking fresh and glowy, not dull and cakey.

If you're worried about dry skin causing acne, this foundation's hydrating properties help to prevent the formula from drying around blemishes. Those aforementioned skin-loving ingredients include antioxidants like vitamin C to brighten and protect the skin from further damage from free radicals and environmental factors. The hero of the formula, though, has to be turmeric, which also works to brighten the skin and reduce the appearance of acne scars with prolonged use), while its anti-inflammatory properties also calm acne flare-ups. I deem it a must-have skincare-makeup hybrid that's perfect for those after decent coverage with a lightweight, silky feel.

• View full shade range at Clinique in the US
• View full shade range at Boots in the UK

A cult foundation for acne-prone skin from an equally cult brand, Clinique’s Anti-Blemish Solutions truly excelled in my tests and is a well-recognized favorite for many people with acne. Its lightweight, silky texture was easy to apply—I found it best applied with a damp make-up sponge—and although it dries down quickly, this was something that I soon got used to the more I used it. 

Formulated with salicylic acid to help treat blemishes and breakouts, this foundation is also oil-free and works to neutralize any discoloration in the skin—though there is definite room for improvement with its shade range. Another factor that I loved was its natural-looking finish; no matter how many layers I applied it didn’t look chalky. In other words, my skin stayed looking like skin—just like when you use one of the best BB creams—which, in my book, is vital.

• View full shade range at Amazon in the US
• View full shade range at Face the Future in the UK

This foundation is at the expensive end of the scale, but when you take into account its claims and credibility, it’s definitely worth it. A favorite among celebrities like Kourtney Kardashian, it's formulated specifically for acne-prone skin and contains 2% salicylic acid (a spot-busting form of beta-hydroxy acid), a much higher level than most other foundations that contain it. It’s also enriched with soothing Aloe vera and vitamin E to target inflammation and calm redness.

It also features SPF 30, meaning you get a little UV protection, though you must of course use one of the best sunscreens for face to get the right amount of protection. It's also ultra-lightweight, lasts all day, and has significant oil-controlling powers. However, I must flag the extremely limited, incredibly pale selection of shades that are on offer here. If you can find your shade and afford this formula, it's one of the best foundations for acne-prone skin, and a truly incredible discovery.

• View full shade range at Sephora in the US
• View full shade range at Boots in the UK

Those with acne-prone and oily complexions were delighted when IT Cosmetics launched this oil-free, matte version of its cult CC cream—because it meant that they, too, could see what all the fuss was about. Despite the fact it does have heavy coverage and a matte finish, I love that it still looks relatively natural on the skin and doesn’t feel cakey or suffocating. 

As well as disguising discoloration like redness with ease (the CC is a hit among those with rosacea), it also lives up to its claims of helping to reduce oiliness and shine throughout the day, plus it’s hydrating which is fairly unheard of, even when it comes to the best foundation for acne prone skin. The added SPF 40 is always a bonus that I'm fully on board with, and this is easily one of the best foundations for oily skin around. 

• View full shade range at Ulta in the US
• View full shade range at LOOKFANTASTIC in the UK

When it comes to affordability and shade range, Maybelline’s Fit Me Matte & Poreless Foundation ticks all my boxes, making it one of the best drugstore foundations, in my opinion. 40 shades is quite impressive for any foundation, let alone one that’s suitable for oily skin types and very affordable.

There's a real lack of shade diversity when it comes to foundations for acne-prone skin, but Maybelline is leading by example—and despite the fact that I did find that this foundation did need a little topping up throughout the day, it did a pretty good job. Considering its price tag, it’s definitely a good choice.

• View full shade range at Sephora in the US
• View full shade range at LOOKFANTASTIC in the UK

This higher-end foundation looked like another, more polished, perfected layer of skin. In just one application uneven textures, visible pores, and red blemishes were smoothed over, with no gathering around any dry patches or particularly nasty breakouts—which is why it's one of the best foundations for acne-prone skin.

It won't give super full coverage, but I actually liked that. I could still see a glimpse of my freckles and natural complexion, but the foundation covered imperfections expertly. It gives an almost airbrushed finish to skin, while still feeling very natural and not at all cakey. The staying power was also truly impressive, staying put all day despite the natural-looking, satiny finish.

"This foundation has stayed by my side for years and never failed me," says My Imperfect Life's deputy editor Aleesha Badkar. "Its silky texture buffs in smoothly and feels comfortable when wearing but, despite being slightly thinner than some other foundations, it doesn't sink into my large pores. The light-reflecting particles also leave my skin with the most incredible glow, like golden hour in a bottle. Despite its silky and light formula, it's got immense staying power; I wore it to my best friend's long, busy, outdoor wedding in France on the hottest day of the year and, despite running around as maid of honor, it was still going strong at the end of the night—right up until we jumped in the pool in our dresses!"

See our full, in-depth review of the Giorgio Armani Luminous Silk foundation here.

Crystals are having a moment, whether you’re looking for crystals for beginners or are already well-versed in their healing powers.

These days, it’s just as normal to find a gigantic shard of rose quartz on someone’s desk to ward off negative energy as you are a laptop. Crystals are no longer considered a fringe practice that only Californian hippies indulge in, nor are they simply the preserve of a certain type of baby boomer—one who probably went to Woodstock and still has the Birkenstocks and embroidered mirror bag to prove it. 

There is a genuine movement among millennials and Gen Z-ers to engage with the healing power of crystals, whether they're using crystals for anxiety alongside the best meditation apps or crystals to help sleep. It's a movement part rooted in science, part indulged by celebrity idols. Victoria Beckham, for example, uses crystals backstage at her fashion shows. Katy Perry sleeps with one in her hand and Gwyneth Paltrow—well, we won’t go into where Gwynnie puts her jade eggs!

The current climate also explains the resurgence of crystal culture. “The whole world is made of energy, every person, everything is vibrating at different frequencies,” explains Emma Lucy Knowles, Victoria Beckham’s very own crystal healer and author of The Power of Crystal Healing: Change Your Energy and Live A High-Vibe Life. 

“When we are happy and buzzing, we emit high vibrations. When we are burnt out or feeling down, which have been recurring feelings during the pandemic, we emit low-energy vibrations. Energy is fluid and changeable so we can use crystals to change our energy and align ourselves with how we want to feel.”

Our beauty and wellness writer Fiona Embleton gathered everything you need to know on crystals for beginners, including how to tap into the trend of using actual rocks for a healthy home or workspace, and how to incorporate crystals into your beauty routine.

Crystals for beginners 101: what you need to know

How to choose the right crystals for beginners

There are no set-in-concrete rules here. “Maybe you just liked the color and shape of the crystals, the way they sparkle or the way they feel but you don’t really know why. However they call to you, it’s all good. That’s your intuition talking,” says Knowles.

It’s also important to remember that, much like your mood, your crystal of choice will change. 

“Try thinking of crystals as being like your closest friendship circle,” Knowles continues. "Each person in that group has a trait you lean on in times of heartache, or when looking for fun or a confidence boost. This is how crystals will call to you. Each has its own healing properties and you’ll learn to instinctively know which one to turn to.”

If you’re looking for the best crystals for beginners, Knowles recommends the following “crystal super-set": 

1. Amethyst: “This rich, purple crystal calms and promotes a balance within our inner emotions.”
2. Rose Quartz: “A warming crystal that pulses out pure, radiating, unconditional love.”
3. Tiger's Eye: “The protector and ultimate confidence booster, it allows you to see through your doubts and fears.”
4. Citrine: “This sunshine-yellow crystal burns off negativity. It’s a great piece for the home to disperse the lingering hangover of an argument.”
5. Clear quartz: “This enlightening stone allows us to rise above the noise and daily chatter to a heightened state of connectivity.”

The benefits of crystals for beginners

Crystal healing is a type of alternative therapy that involves using gemstones to bring balance to your life and mind.

 “Crystals are naturally occurring minerals with a unique crystal structure, formed under pressure over millions of years,” explains Knowles. “Each one vibrates at its own frequency and has its own special properties. Crystals work to heal or realign your energy when it’s out of whack or to help you reach your goals.”

In other words, they’re a bit like tuning forks, bringing our energy back into balance. 

The best crystals for beginners to start your collection

Kitsch is like catnip for millennials with its cute shower caps, face masks and hair-friendly scrunchies—all of which make buying crystals for beginners more fun and mainstream, as there’s no visiting a fusty old crystal shop to get your rock. You can also make the crystal the centerpiece of your self-care ritual, adding other products from the brand as you go. As for amethyst itself, this rich purple stone helps to calm and balance our inner emotions.

Själ is known for combining elements of ancient Eastern medicines with the latest in Western biotechnology. If you’re looking to dip your toe into gemstone skincare, this serum is packed with a blend of ruby, diamond, amethyst, sapphire, quartz and tourmaline. It manages to be both nourishing and non-greasy, and it doesn't contain any ingredients that could rile sensitive skin. In fact, Själ's founder, Kristin Petrovich, believes the crystals help to heal inflammation. The added bonus is the anti-aging boost from peptides that ramp up collagen production. 

Over 90,000 people googled 'jade rollers' in 2020 and it's not hard to see why. These naturally cool stones used in a massage tool are said to do everything—from sculpting and firming skin to boosting circulation, enhancing glow, reducing puffiness, minimizing fine lines, detoxifying and helping skincare products penetrate better. Phew! This inexpensive option still ticks all those boxes and its dual-ended tip means the small roller can comfortably glide over puffy under eyes without tugging.

The benefits of this rose quartz tool are two-fold. First, you are adding the benefit of a facial sculptor to your skincare routine, which stimulates circulation and firms the muscles that loosen as you age. Second, this healing stone helps to ease tension, stress and anxiety, as well as promote feelings of happiness and emotional wellbeing. Use it in the mornings to reduce puffiness and eliminate toxins by massaging it in an upward and outward motion starting from the neck area, moving along to your chin, cheeks and around to the eye area. 

Finding the right crystal for you can be daunting. If you want complete ease but still personalization, look no further than these pouches, containing six healing crystals for your star sign. In this case, the Scorpio bag contains malachite to help release toxins from the body and promote self-confidence, rose quartz to open the heart chakra and increase self-love, and moonstone to promote empathy and kindness.

How to use crystals for beginners

“Gently hold them while sitting in meditation or place them on energy centers while lying down,” says Knowles. “Skin-on-skin connection is superbly powerful but crystals are also strong enough to vibrate through your jeans. My pockets, even my bra, are full of them! Or place them in areas of your home that need healing.” 

Is crystal skincare the next big thing?

The most obvious way that crystals have made their way into our beauty routines is via crystal rollers. Typically made of jade, rose quartz or amethyst, crystal rollers are hand-held massaging tools typically made with one or two stone heads. The crystals themselves are chosen for two reasons—their alleged healing power and their naturally cool surface.

The roller itself is a swollen face’s enemy. It removes excess fluid under the eye by constricting blood vessels, while the massage action boosts blood circulation and helps products absorb better into your skin. 

But crystals also appear on the ingredients list of high-tech skincare formulations, with their vibrations and energy believed to balance our seriously stressed-out skin.

Kora Organics by Miranda Kerr fuses clean beauty with the power of crystals. She was inspired by her grandparents’ garden, which contained many crystals and she has said she could “feel the magic” of rose quartz. As such, this gemstone features heavily in her skincare line.

Kristin Petrovich, the co-founder of Själ Skincare, where each product contains gemstones such as amethyst and tourmaline, says: “We are made up of minerals and our bone structure is crystalline, so we naturally resonate with gemstones. Crystals vibrate at a high frequency so when used on the face or body, their healing energy travels towards weaker cells helping to balance them.”

Bring on those good vibes only!

If your stress levels are through the roof—guilty!—crystals for anxiety may help you to restore a sense of calm in your life. Add to that the fact that you can also use crystals to help sleep and you've got quite the wellness wonder stored in those pretty little gemstones. 

The beauty of crystals is that there really is one for every scenario, whether you're seeking crystals for beginners, something to use if you're getting over a breakup or crystals for sexuality in case you need an oomph in the bedroom. It makes sense that crystals, which are born of the earth, should be a thing that grounds us.

“Crystals are truly powerful—they work to heal or realign our energy,” crystal healer Emma Lucy Knowles tells My Imperfect Life. "Each one harnesses, attracts, and promotes its own special properties that resonate with your energy to aid you in a particular life event." 

Have Knowles' below recommendations for the best crystals for anxiety on standby either in your home or in your pocket to help you feel centered and less stressed.

Meet the experts on crystals

Emma Lucy Knowles is a crystal healer and the author of The Power of Crystal Healing: Change Your Energy and Live A High-Vibe Life. She explained some facts about crystals, as well as those she recommends reaching for when you're feeling overwhelmed to help bring a sense of calm, below.

What are the best types of crystals for anxiety?

1. Howlite: “This crystal is your queen here—it soothes tension from the body and assists you when you need to slow an overactive mind," Knowles explains. 
2. Lepidolite: “Breathing is key in enabling us to reduce our anxiety and this soothes not only the mind but also creates a deeper fulfilling breath. This, in turn, helps to activate the parasympathetic nervous system to produce feelings of calm and relaxation.”
3. Lemon chrysoprase: “This piece gives us confidence and strength when we feel alone.”
4. Amethyst: “A stone that opens and cools the mind. Reach for this when you need clarity on making a big decision but don't know who to turn to for advice.”
5. Jade: “A nurturing green stone that channels serenity and intuition in stressful situations. Use this crystal when you are feeling overwhelmed.”

5 crystals for anxiety you can buy now

Crystals for skin are becoming increasingly popular, and after a long, hard day, you can invest time in self-care with this jade gua sha facial sculpting device. The skin-scraping massage releases facial tension and de-puffs the complexion, particularly useful if you've been indulging in a few more treats than usual. The cooling stone instantly soothes both the mind and the skin. Use with your favorite serums and oils for a smoother, brighter complexion—a clever way of sneaking crystals for anxiety into your everyday routine.

Place this stone beside a candle or lamp to amplify its glistening beauty. This crystal has already been put through a purifying process that uses ancient techniques to cleanse it from unwanted energy and is believed to balance emotions. According to Knowles, amethyst is a stone to reach for “when you need clarity on making a big decision.”

The size and shape make these crystal medallions perfect for slipping into your jeans pocket or under a pillowcase. The price makes them ideal for those dipping their toe into crystal healing for the first time. Meanwhile, the vendor is a reputable crystal shop with access to a learning center, should you wish to know more about these gemstones and how to use them as, for example, crystals for good luck.

Handcrafted in the US, this sunny gemstone necklace from Dina Mackney is constructed with all-natural lemon, or citron, chrysoprase crystals. Having the soothing stone hung around your neck is fitting, as it's said to not only help to relieve stress but also balance body temperature. 

This ring looks good and does good, on several levels. According to Knowles, howlite is a stone that "soothes tension from the body and assists you when you need to slow an overactive mind." Stack it with other gemstone rings from the collection to really help boost those crystal healing powers.

How to use crystals for anxiety

“Gently hold them while sitting in meditation or place them on energy centers while lying down,” says Knowles. “Skin-on-skin connection is powerful but crystals are also strong enough to vibrate through your jeans. My pockets, even my bra, are full of them! Or place them in areas of your home that need healing.”

Learning about cleansing crystals is also an important part of your crystal journey, and My Imperfect Life has also compiled a guide to manifesting with crystals.

Does crystal size matter?

“Size is not a factor,” says Knowles. “A piece can be small but have a greater vibration than a giant raw rock."

The connections we have to specific crystals are also very personal. "I might hold a piece and feel the world from it, you might hold it and feel nothing," she adds. "The connection is what matters.”

It's not an easy task to pick the best Yankee candle scents—there are so many options to choose from—but our homes writer did the difficult work of nailing them down. (We're nothing if not givers!)

It's no surprise that the past few years saw a major surge in the candle industry, as many of us focused our attention on making our homes as cozy as possible. We've realized the best scented candles are the perfect way to nail that hygge vibe. 

Picking the right home fragrance can change the entire ambiance of your space, and what's better than the romantic glow of a flickering candle after a long day of work? A warm candle can instantly make us forget our troubles, whether paired with a lovely glass of wine or one of the best meditation apps around. 

To help you bring that inviting quality to your own abode, we've picked a few scents that you need to add to your collection—shout-out to Clean Cotton and Lemon Lavender! (And yes, you'll definitely want to learn how to make candles last longer with these yummy-smelling selects.) 

What to consider when buying the best Yankee Candle scents:

When buying any candles, including Yankee Candles, there are some criteria you want to take into consideration before making your purchase: 

• Burn time (how long the candle burns)
• Candle size and shape
• Type (cotton or wire) and amount of wicks
• Scent throw (how far the fragrance travels)
• Type of wax used (soy, paraffin, beeswax)
• Price of the candle

The best Yankee Candle scents to add to your home

Yankee Candle's Midnight Jasmine is one of the brand's most popular selections, with a five-star customer rating. The scent is made with notes of water jasmine, sweet honeysuckle, neroli and mandarin blossom.

One customer wrote: "The fragrance is just beautiful, it has a good throw but it's not too overpowering." Another added: "The Midnight Jasmine scent is beautiful and flowery great for spring and summer months." 

This scent will transport you to a tropical island with a fresh aroma that mixes bright citrus, sweet florals and spicy vanilla. No wonder it has a five-star rating! 

One happy customer wrote: "Pink Sands is so dreamy, romantic and brings beauty into my spirit & my home! I just breathe in the fragrance and feel renewed!" 

Where do we sign up?

The fruit-forward candle is made with top notes of rich, ripe black cherry and almond, but also contains secondary notes of cinnamon, making it even sweeter as well as adding a festive scent. 

"If you are looking for a cherry-scented, fruity candle with a good throw, this is it!" one customer noted. "If I burn it in the kitchen, I can smell it in the next room, it is warm and inviting."

If you've ever worried, "Are candles bad for you?" don't fret—the majority are perfectly safe. In fact, some psychologists have said that certain candles can actually be good for your health, from boosting productivity to aiding relaxation. 

Just like the name suggests, this candle is designed to create a calm aroma and relaxing atmosphere in any room it is lit in. One of the best Yankee Candle scents, Calm & Quiet Place, is described as "balanced and centered" with jasmine, patchouli, and warm amber musk.

If there's one thing we've been focused on this year, it's leveling up our cleanliness. The Yankee Candle Lemon Lavender candle brings the scent of a freshly cleaned home with hints of tangy citrus and sweet lavender flowers. 

One customer noted: "The Lemon is energizing while the Lavender is relaxing. This is one of those scents that you never want to be discontinued." 

The classic Clean Cotton candle is perfect for those who love the gorgeous scent of white flowers but haven't quite mastered how to make candles at home for themselves yet. Think tulips, lilies and white roses. It's also mixed with a fresh hint of lemon and warm wooden notes for extra comfort.

Yankee Candle reviewers say that the freshly-laundered scent fills any room, but one savvy customer strategically uses it in the powder room, saying it's "perfect for the bathroom odor you want to eliminate."

Our working-from-home lifestyles often invite that dreaded afternoon slump. This candle will reignite your motivation by whisking you away to what feels like a lovely, woodsy escape with notes of cypress, jasmine, lemon and cedar. You'll feel like you're in the outdoors, even if you haven't left your couch in hours. (Guilty!)

Officially crowned Yankee Candle's 2021 scent of the year, the Discovery candle mixes a fresh blend of fruit notes made up of starfruit, mango and passionfruit,  complemented by warm aromas like ginger and vanilla spice.

As well as the Discovery's delicious scent, it comes in gorgeous packaging that features a Moroccan-inspired pattern and summery pastels that will transport you to Marrakesh all without leaving your own abode. 

A citrusy aroma with hints of cedar, seaside driftwood and rainforest lime (to name but a few), "Inspire" is meant to evoke a much-needed sense of optimism, a mentality we can all appreciate after such a hectic two years. No wonder this selection was crowned the 2022 Yankee Candle scent of the year. 

If you're scrolling through meditation apps or whipping out the best yoga accessories before getting in downward dog, why not enjoy the aroma of "Inspire" while getting your zen on? Trust us, you won't regret it. 

Don't let daises and peonies hog the attention—fall florals are just as delightful as their warm-weather counterparts. 

Fortunately for the autumn enthusiasts in need of a home decor buy, Golden Autumn blends a few of our favorites from the garden: sunflowers, mums and dahlias. To make things all the more flavorful, we also get a little zest of ginger and vetiver. 

While you're at it, might as well snag a plaid blanket—we have a feeling you'll want one to use while you burn this baby.

Calling all those who love Halloween! If you're feeling a bit inspired by the creepy holiday and lunar spectacles, we highly recommend taking a look at this delightful blend of apple, berry, violet leaf, jasmine and amber—the 4.5 rating doesn't lie, ghouls and goblins. Is anyone else ready to howl at the full moon?

Whether you're looking for breezy, summery scents or something festive to cap off the winter season, the all-time best Yankee Candle scents have got you covered 365 days a year.

Finding gifts for Scorpios isn't all as tricky as it seems—while this water sign may be intense at times, but they're also a deeply passionate, thoughtful sign who have a natural mystery and curiosity.

Senior astrologer for Astrology.com, Narayana Montúfar, explains that this water sign can "be quite emotional, but it wouldn’t necessarily be obvious" as their "magnetic energy" usually takes center stage. With an intense personality type comes big reactions, so you don't really want to get a present wrong—but when you get it right, it's guaranteed to win you some huge brownie points!

If it's all sending a bit intense shopping for gifts for Scorpios, don't panic—that's where we come in. We've collated 18 of the best gifts that the water sign will love all year round, whether you're looking for the best astrology gifts for Scorpios who want to explore their witchy side, or presents that will help them embrace their more adventurous proclivities. After all, as expert Noush Joon, astrologer at astrology website Girl and her Moon points out, Scorpios "love the thrill and intensity of life and want to feel alive" so boring gifts are definitely out!

Best gifts for each Zodiac sign

So you've bought your Scorpio pal a gift. Keen to shop according to your other family and friend's star sign? It certainly provides some great inspiration! If so, take a look at our gift guides below, which include present ideas for all of the signs, whether you're shopping for Christmas or beyond.

• Gifts for Aries: statement accessories and activewear gifts
• Gifts for Taurus: luxe gifts and thoughtful ideas for a sentimental sign
• Gifts for Cancer: personalized gifts and cozy, self-care ideas for Cancers
• Gifts for Leo: gift ideas to play to a Leo's fun and playful nature
• Gifts for Gemini: essentials for their fast-paced lifestyle and self-care treats
• Gifts for Libra: luxury products and pampering products for Libras
• Gifts for Sagittarius: gift ideas that are as fun and charming as they are
• Gifts for Capricorn: practical and personal gifts for goal-minded Capricorns
• Gifts for Aquarius: high-tech gadgets and eccentric treats for this quirky sign
• Gifts for Pisces: helpful gift ideas to match their relaxed cosmic energy
• Gifts for Virgo: gifts that will appeal to both their practical and homebody sides

Meet the experts on gifts for Scorpios

• Noush Joon is an intuitive astrologer at astrology website Girl and her Moon who specializes in properties of nature, human psychology, energy healing and self-development
• Narayana Montúfar is a senior astrologer for Astrology.com who specializes in birth charts

Best gifts for Scorpios

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The best shampoo bars should be easy to use, eco-friendly, come in a range of pleasing scents and, most importantly, leave your hair looking and feeling clean, healthy and nourished.

These bars—solid versions of liquid shampoo that resemble soaps—are becoming more and more popular thanks to their (often) plastic-free formulations. These ranges are also designed to work with an increasing number of different hair types, rivaling even the best shampoo for curly hair.  

They're also travel-friendly, as they don't count towards your carry-on allowance, and there are even sulfate-free options available now, too (read our guide on what sulfates do to hair for more on that one). So once you've tried one out, we reckon you'll definitely think twice about repurchasing your trusty liquid product.

All that being said, switching to shampoo bars can spark trepidation—after all, it's a completely new way of doing a basic hygiene ritual that you've spent your life doing another way. That's why our contributing beauty expert has put eight shampoo bars to the test to see how well they perform and how they leave hair looking and feeling—to give you the lowdown on exactly how to move over to this newer hair-washing technique. These are the products that she found performed best. 

How we tested the best shampoo bars

When testing shampoo bars, I washed my hair with each shampoo bar a couple of times before forming my opinion, so that I was able to gauge more fairly how they worked. I took all of the following points into consideration to inform my review. 

• Price
• How plant-friendly it was
• Variations and hair types it’s suitable for
• Scent
• General ease of use
• Packaging
• How it made hair look and feel, both immediately after washing and again after styling

With more and more shampoo bars launching, it can be an overwhelming product to shop—especially when you want to ensure the one you’re buying is actually as good for the planet as it claims. I based my selection on popular products, some newer ones and also incorporated some smaller brands which can often be overlooked. We've also find out how to make shampoo bars at home for a more accessible approach. 

The best shampoo bars, as reviewed by a beauty expert

Ethique’s bright green, square-shaped shampoo bar was a pleasure to use. Ethique has 11 types of shampoo bars for all different hair concerns but the Mintasy seems to be the most popular. If you're trying to get into sustainable living, then this shampoo bar is also helpfully vegan and cruelty-free. 

When using, I found that it smelt super fresh and minty thanks to the peppermint oil. It also foamed up really quickly and easily in comparison to some of the others I tried, which was reassuring in making it feel like my hair was getting a good clean. The minty scent felt like it was helping to cleanse the scalp as well as the hair—and it was easy to wash out, too. It didn’t leave hair in a tangled, matted mess and while my hair did feel a bit too squeaky clean, it still felt cleansed, smooth, and hydrated without that telltale waxy feel that some shampoo bars can have in the first few uses.

Read the full Ethique Mintasy Solid Shampoo review to learn more about why this bar is such a go-to product for shampoo bar converts

I loved the Foamie for several reasons—not only did it deliver a serious dose of hydration to my thirsty hair, leaving it smooth and supple, but it smells great too, with tropical notes that lasted throughout the day. And it can be integrated as part of your curly girl routine too.

The ergonomic design means that it fit into the palm of my hand easily, which made it easier than some others to use and meant that it wasn't constantly slipping out of my hands in the shower. I was also really into the handy 'travel buddy' travel case that is sold separately, which really came into its own when I went away for the week and wanted a non-messy compact way to pack this into my toiletries bag.

Usability tip: I found that this lathered up better when I rubbed it directly onto my hair rather than foaming it up in my hands—but if that's your preferred method, then it works fine too

Sulfate-free and vegan-friendly, this shampoo bar is as effective as it is affordable.
This is a good size in that it’s not too big and not too small, which made it super easy to grip once it’s wet—it didn’t slip and slide all over the place (which is no mean feat for a shampoo bar!).

However, it was quite difficult to foam up—it took some doing both in my hands and by rubbing directly onto the hair, which did cause a bit of unnecessary tangling. Once washed out, my hair didn’t feel as squeaky clean as it did with some other shampoo bars, though. Instead, it felt like regular liquid shampoo had been used, which was a nice bonus. It didn’t have much of a scent, which I didn't find to be a problem, but if you prefer heavily scented shampoos then it might not be one for you.

I followed this shampoo bar with the matching conditioning bar and I was pleased with the results. Be warned though, that this shampoo bar doesn’t create much of a lather or foam. That’s due to the fact that it’s sulfate-free and therefore doesn’t have the foaming agents in it—but that doesn’t make it any less effective, and instead makes it much kinder on the scalp and less likely to dry it out or cause irritation.

This is another bar that also doesn’t have much of a scent, but that’s not necessarily a problem, it’s just down to personal preference. However, it did leave my hair feeling soft, smooth, and manageable with a great shine to boot, and ready to be styled with curly hair tips to keep frizz at bay.

I found that this shampoo bar took a while to foam up, but when it did eventually start to, it was definitely worth the wait. Although it didn’t smell very strong, my hair wasn't left feeling too squeaky clean, which was nice. I used it followed by the solid conditioner from the same range, which actually left my hair feeling much smoother and more hydrated than I thought it would.

However, once I had dried and styled my hair post-wash, it did feel a bit limp and greasy—although the more I used this shampoo bar the less that tended to happen, so this could just have been the tell-tale transition period that's experienced when making the switch and comparing shampoo bars vs liquid shampoo.

Super foamy and coconutty, this rich and nourishing shampoo bar smelt incredible and had a lovely, rich lather. It cleaned effectively from the very first use, which was when I used it on my hair that was full of three-day-old grease, dirt and dry shampoo. My hair was left feeling cleansed and much lighter.

The double dose of coconut is really moisturizing, but it does have the addition of sodium coco sulfate, which although doesn’t contain palm oil, is still a type of sulfate used to help a product foam but that can often cause dryness on the scalp. For a sulfate-free alternative, you can always learn how to make shampoo bars at home, or if you find that sulfates don't lead to dryness, then this product is a must-buy textured hair because of the sheer amount of moisturizing properties it has.

Odacite's brand ethos is to create products that would be stocked on the shelves at a posh French pharmacy whilst retaining the green California living factor—a match made in efficacious and sustainable heaven if you ask us.

Aptly named 552M, which signifies the 552 million shampoo bottles that end up in landfills each year, this humble soap bar’s mission is simple: they save the planet and rather conveniently, your hair at the same time. As for the bar itself? Coconut oil wraps hair in moisture and helps to improve texture on even dry, frizzy, color-treated and damaged hair. The soap-free formula is perfect for those with sensitive scalps.

A super fun brand, Nuddy’s peach, and acai shampoo bar smells incredible and really works to help volumize hair. Super easy to use, it lathered up really quickly and easily. It didn’t leave my hair feeling too clean, and nor was it too tangled or knotted after using, so if you're still figuring out whether you should brush your hair after a shower, you can still go for this shampoo. 

Nuddy claims there’s no transition period for this shampoo bar and I can wholeheartedly agree; my hair felt smooth and soft like it usually would after using traditional liquid shampoo, plus it was still super manageable and easy to brush through post-wash. The added bounce and volume also lasted until the next wash. 

How to choose the best shampoo bar for you

Shampoo bars are often one of the first switches suggested in lists of easy swaps that can be made in a move towards more sustainable living. Be sure before you purchase that neither your product nor its packaging contains any plastic.

It's also important to ensure that you're definitely about to purchase a shampoo bar and not a regular old bar of soap. "Some shampoo bars are labelled as shampoos, but are in fact soaps," explains explains Tony Maleedy, trichologist and founder of Earth Kind. "There is a great difference between soap and shampoo, the main one being the pH of the product.

"The easiest way of telling them apart is to compare the ingredient list of the shampoo bar packaging and soap bar packaging. If the first few ingredients are the same, then they are both soap bars. Also, typically, the first few ingredients of a shampoo bar read: Sodium cocoate, Sodium olivate, Sodium castorate."

Then, in order to choose the right kind of shampoo bar for you, specifically, the key is to look out for certain ingredients that'll lend themselves well to your hair type or concerns. 

• Dry, textured hair—nourishing shea butter
• Damaged, brittle hair—cocoa butter and coconut oil both have supremely hydrating qualities meaning they work well with this type of hair
• Fine hair—seaweed is great for keeping fine hair smooth
• Greasy hair—charcoal will work to remove excess oil
• Sensitive scalps—aloe vera will gently cleanse sensitive skin types without causing irritation

It's common for it might take a few washes for your hair to adapt properly, as there's usually a transition period that comes with making the switch from traditional shampoo to shampoo bars. After the first couple of washes your hair may feel waxy, but that’s completely normal, and is why you should always stick with a product for a bit before deciding it’s not quite right. If you wash your hair on a less regular basis, be sure to note the expiration date of your chosen shampoo bar.

Charming, creative and social: Libras are a great sign to have close to you. If they're not out making new friends then you can find them enjoying some much-needed pamper time or creative projects at home. So, while the best astrology gifts for self-care—like one of the best scented candles—could make a great choice, a gifted experience or something to aid their social life would be a really thoughtful pick too.

If you're struggling to find that extra-special gift and want something you can enjoy with your Libra loved one, astrology expert Narayana Montúfar, senior astrologer for Astrology.com, recommends that as social beings, they might "enjoy a getaway vacation for two, especially if it’s a romantic trip". 

Noush Joon, astrologer at astrology website Girl and her Moon, highlights that this Air sign also "enjoys luxury and really spoiling themselves" and so they love unashamedely indulging in the finer things in life. So if a holiday is off the cards though, then anything that will fit in with their luxurious tendencies is a sure winner: the best wellness gifts, creative hobby kits, or luxe homeware. This taste of luxury can make them a little tricky to shop for on a budget though, so we've collected some ideas for the best gifts for Libras around both at the more affordable end of the scale, and some pricier options if you have more to spend. To save you the search and help you get ready for Libra season, here are 18 great gifts for Libras that they'll love all year round—whether you're buying a Christmas or a birthday gift.

Best gifts for each Zodiac sign

Once you've bought your gifts for the Libran in your life, take a look at our gift guide round-ups for shopping for the rest of your loved ones!

• Gifts for Aries: statement accessories and gifts for their competitive spirit
• Gifts for Taurus: luxe gifts and thoughtful ideas that Taureans will love
• Gifts for Cancer: self-care treats to dreamy home decor
• Gifts for Leo: gifts to feed their sociable and creative side
• Gifts for Gemini: essentials for this curious and adventure-hungry sign
• Gifts for Scorpio: this passionate sign will adore thoughtful and consider gifts
• Gifts for Sagittarius: gift ideas that are as fun and charming as they are
• Gifts for Capricorn: gifts to help them organize and self-care reminders
• Gifts for Aquarius: high-tech gadgets and eccentric treats for this quirky sign
• Gifts for Pisces: gift ideas to match their cosmic, chilled-out energy
• Gifts for Virgo: Practical organization purchases and cozy self-care treats

Meet the experts on gifts for Libras

• Noush Joon is an intuitive astrologer at astrology website Girl and her Moon who specializes in properties of nature, human psychology, energy healing and self-development
• Narayana Montúfar is a senior astrologer for Astrology.com who specializes in birth charts

Best gifts for Libras

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The best gifts for Virgos will tap into both their organized and thoughtful sides—after all, if they’re not sending around a detailed itinerary of your girls’ holiday, then they’re throwing extra snacks into their bag ready for when you get peckish, and making sure they’ve always got time to lend a listening ear to your latest drama.

Noush Joon, astrologer at astrology website Girl and her Moon, says that while Virgos are “detail-orinatated”, they’re also “caring and nurturing and like to give back and help others as much as they can.” In light of that, gifts for Virgos don't necessarily have to tap into their love for organization, and could instead help them make the most of their valuable alone time or provide them with ways in which to give back. So while you could go for one of the best astrology gifts for staying on top of things—like one of our best planners, or a stationery set—it could also be a good idea to opt for something to bring them some self-care too.

The Virgo balance of productivity and thoughtfulness means that you have lot of gifting options choose from, whether you go for the best wellness gifts or something they can use in a more practical way. Whether you're shopping for a Christmas gift or a birthday present, get ready for Virgo season with these 20 great gifts for Virgos to show them you care all year round.

Best gifts for each Zodiac sign

Once you're doing shopping for your Virgo loved one, why not do some more shopping according to your friends and family's zodiac signs? 

• Gifts for Aries: an active sign who will love these bright and practical gifts
• Gifts for Taurus: thoughtful and cozy gifts for a sign who loves affection
• Gifts for Cancer: choose sentimental gifts over generic presents for Cancers
• Gifts for Leo: for this theatrical sign, choose fun and creative gifts
• Gifts for Gemini: gift ideas perfect for this social and adventure-hungry sign
• Gifts for Libra: experiences and luxury gifts for this charming sign
• Gifts for Scorpio: deeply passionate and thoughtful, choose meaningful presents
• Gifts for Sagittarius: travel gift ideas and playful presents for this big kid
• Gifts for Capricorn: a put-together sign, they'll appreciate gifts they can use
• Gifts for Aquarius: fun and quirky gift options for a sign that loves eccentric ideas
• Gifts for Pisces: self-care and self-exploration tools for this spiritual sign

Meet the expert on gifts for Virgo

• Noush Joon is an intuitive astrologer at astrology website Girl and her Moon who specializes in properties of nature, human psychology, energy healing and self-development
• Narayana Montúfar is a senior astrologer for Astrology.com who specializes in birth charts

Best gifts for Virgos

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Possibly the most dramatic and theatrical of all the signs, the best gifts for Leo signs will draw on their love to embrace the bright and bold wherever they go. From the best astrology gifts to personalized items, it's all about being loud and sociable for Leo.

And if you're lucky enough to have a Leo loved one, you'll know that wanting to stand out from the crowd doesn't mean they're self-obsessed; in fact, expert Noush Joon from Girl and Her Moon says they're actually "very generous, kind and affectionate". So, with those traits in mind, what should you be looking for when you're after a gift for Leo signs? 

When it comes to accessories and jewelry, bold and statement is the way to go: pay homage to their sun alignment with dazzling gold hues, patterns, and sparkly gemstones. While gifts to make their social lives even more fun are always appreciated, remember that Leos need their quiet time too—meaning that some of the best wellness gifts wouldn't go amiss either. Finding the right balance can be tricky, so get ready for Leo season with these 16 gifts for Leo signs that they'll love whether it's Christmas, their birthday, or any other occasion. 

Best gifts for each Zodiac sign

After hunting down the best gift for a Leo, why not take a look at our guides to present buying for all the other Zodiac signs too?

• Gifts for Aries: statement accessories and activewear for this busy sign
• Gifts for Taurus: comfy, thoughtful and luxury gifts for Taurus signs
• Gifts for Gemini: with a fast-paced lifestyle, they need social gifts!
• Gifts for Cancer: dreamy home decor and self-care treats
• Gifts for Virgo: the most practical sign, get the Virgo in your life gifts for alone time
• Gifts for Libra: romantic and luxury gifts will never go amiss for a Libra
• Gifts for Scorpio: spiritual and adventurous gift ideas that this sign will love
• Gifts for Sagittarius: travel gifts and spiritual presents will work for this sign
• Gifts for Capricorn: choose meaningful and sentimental gifts for Capricorns
• Gifts for Aquarius: for this quirky sign, choose gadgets and fun accessories
• Gifts for Pisces: buy stylish accessories and self-care gifts

Meet the experts for gifts for Leo signs

• Noush Joon is an intuitive astrologer at astrology website Girl and her Moon who specializes in properties of nature, human psychology, energy healing and self-development
• Narayana Montúfar is a senior astrologer for Astrology.com who specializes in birth charts

Best gifts for Leo signs

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To find the best gifts for Cancer signs, it's important to keep their unique personalities in mind. For example, if you're lucky enough to have a caring and nuturing Cancer close to you, you'll already know just how much this Water sign values their friends and family. As Noush Joon from Girl and her Moon highlights, "Cancer is a compassionate, sensitive sign. They can be very receptive, kind, nurturing and very loving to the people they care about." 

This means that finding gifts for Cancer loved ones can be a difficult task, especially as they appreciate sentimental thought over generic gifts. Senior astrologer for Astrology.com and author of Moon Signs: Unlock Your Luminary Power Narayana Montúfar suggests that Cancers could "appreciate something sentimental", adding that "if you have a family heirloom or a gift made from the heart, Cancer will surely love it!"

But if you haven't got a sentimental antique to hand, or don't have the time to craft a masterpiece, this is the list for you; there are unique, meaningful gifts aplenty in our round-up. Whether you're looking for the best wellness gifts for their precious alone time, or personalized presents designed just for them, these 20 gifts for Cancer signs will be appreciated no matter what the occasion.

Best gifts for each Zodiac sign

Once you're doing shopping for your Cancer loved one, it might be helpful to get some inspiration for the rest of your gift-giving based on Zodiac signs, too!

• Gifts for Aries: statement accessories and activewear for this fiesty sign
• Gifts for Taurus: comfy, thoughtful and luxury gifts for Taurus signs
• Gifts for Gemini: social and adventure gifts for their fast-paced lifestyle
• Gifts for Leo: bright and bold accessories for vibrant Leos
• Gifts for Virgo: stunning stationary and practical purchases for this organized sign
• Gifts for Libra: pampering products and luxury items for charming Libras
• Gifts for Scorpio: deep and thoughtful gifts, and adrenaline options
• Gifts for Sagittarius: fun gift ideas for their jet-setting tendencies
• Gifts for Capricorn: gifts to help them organize and practice self-care
• Gifts for Aquarius: high-tech gadgets and eccentric treats
• Gifts for Pisces: it's all about self-care and travel for this sign

Meet the experts on gifts for Cancers

• Noush Joon is an intuitive astrologer at astrology website Girl and her Moon who specializes in properties of nature, human psychology, energy healing and self-development
• Narayana Montúfar is a senior astrologer for Astrology.com who specializes in birth charts

Best gifts for Cancer signs

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• View at Papier in the UK (UK only)

Finding the best gifts for Gemini friends can be difficult when you’re trying to keep all of their traits in mind—especially when they tend to jump from one interest to another quicker than you can keep up. 

Geminis can sometimes get a bad rap for being fickle, gossipy or indecisive—but if you have a friend or family member with this Air sign, you’ll know that the other side of their twin can also be creative, naturally sociable and the life and soul of any party.

Whether you want presents for their fast-paced lifestyle or the best astrology gifts for the more starry-eyed members of this sign, we've got you covered.  Narayana Montúfar, senior astrologer for Astrology.com and author of Moon Signs: Unlock Your Luminary Power, recommends that it’s best to keep the Gemini traits of being a “curious, conversational Mercury-ruled sign” in mind when you’re looking for gifts to suit them. This might be creative gifts, or gifts they can learn from—for example, that maybe help them learn about something they have a curiosity for. To help you make an informed decision and get ready for Gemini season, these are 20 gifts for Gemini signs that they’ll appreciate, no matter what the occasion.

Best gifts for each Zodiac sign

Once you're doing shopping for your Gemini loved one, why not do the rest of your Christmas shopping according to your friends and family's zodiac signs? 

• Gifts for Aries: bright and vibrant gifts for an active sign
• Gifts for Taurus: thoughtful and cozy gifts for a sign who loves affection
• Gifts for Cancer: choose sentimental gifts over generic presents for Cancers
• Gifts for Leo: theatrical and dramatic gifts to suit their bold personality
• Gifts for Virgo: an organized and thoughtful sign; they'll love these valuable gifts
• Gifts for Libra: experiences and luxury gifts for this charming sign
• Gifts for Scorpio: gifts ideas for deep souls and adrenaline junkies
• Gifts for Sagittarius: choose travel gifts and playful present ideas
• Gifts for Capricorn: a put-together sign, they'll appreciate practical gifts
• Gifts for Aquarius: fun and quirky gift options for a sign that loves eccentric ideas
• Gifts for Pisces: exploration gifts and self-care ideas for the Pisces in your life

Meet the experts on gifts for Geminis

• Noush Joon is an intuitive astrologer at astrology website Girl and her Moon who specializes in properties of nature, human psychology, energy healing and self-development
• Narayana Montúfar is a senior astrologer for Astrology.com who specializes in birth charts

Best gifts for Gemini signs

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• View at Not On The High Street in the US
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• View at Barnes and Noble in the US
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• View at Not On the High Street in the US
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Tuesday is officially our new favorite day of the week, thanks to Boots' £10 Tuesday sale—where brands like Huda Beauty and Olay can all be found for under a tenner! So, if you're looking to try one of the best moisturizers or perhaps bag the perfect beauty gift for the holidays, circle Tuesdays on your calendar and get ready to snap up some of your beauty faves for less—and yes, we've rounded up all the best deals for you already!

The retailer's £10 Tuesday sale sees a whole host of brands and products discounted every week—some of which retail for over £30. So, if one of your ride-or-die products isn't on sale this week, it may very well be next Tuesday!

From the looks of it though, Boots is definitely spoiling us this Tuesday, with incredible deals on everything you could wish for in your beauty arsenal—from the best eyeshadow palettes from Morphe to Olay's best-selling eye cream. And to make shopping the sale even easier, we've found all the best makeup, skincare and haircare deals available right now...

What's discounted in this week's Boots £10 Tuesday sale?

• Haircare: Save £30 on the Shark iQ hair dryer
• Health: Find major deals on Sonisk electric toothbrushes
• Makeup: Get Morphe and Huda Beauty makeup for just £10
• Nails: Get sets of Mylee gel nail polishes for just £10!
• Skincare: Save up to £20 on brands like No.7 and Olay

Boots makeup deals

Ahead of the festive season, there are still some incredible bargains on premium makeup to be found, ideal if you're looking to amp up your makeup look for the Holidays!

Boots skincare deals

Boots haircare deals

Along with some incredible Dyson Airwrap and Dyson Supersonic deals, there are also some big savings to be found on a number of other hair tools, like the Shark iQ hairdryer, right now at Boots...

Is Boots £10 Tuesday every week?

Yes, Boots £10 Tuesday deals happen every Tuesday with the only exception being bank holidays! 

Each week sees brand new deals on everything from skincare to the best-selling tanning products. Sometimes you can even find some killer deals on makeup and perfumes too!

Is Boots £10 Tuesday in store?

The £10 Tuesday deals are only available online and can easily be found on Boots homepage! There you'll find all of the day's deals across makeup, skincare and haircare. 

If you're on the hunt for gifts for Taurus', you may be a little perplexed over what to buy for them! These Earth personalities, born between April 20 and May 20, are the Zodiac's gentler sign, but they also present a contrast—they like to curl up and get cozy, and appreciate thoughtfulness, but they are also prone to indulging in luxury; which can make buying unique gifts for Taurus signs quite difficult.

The best astrology gifts (that tune into their Zodiac qualities) are always a good choice, as are products that can add to their self-care routine—from the best scented candles to skincare routine nourishment staples. Astrology expert Noush Joon, from Girl and her Moon, described this soft sign as "a little gentler and a little more grounded" than the more energetic signs in the constellation. So, what presents will be appreciated? 

Narayana Montúfar, author of Moon Signs: Unlock Your Luminary Power, emphasizes the heightened sensory instinct of this sign, recommending that you gift them treats like "gift cards to their favorite restaurant, a cookbook they’ve been eyeballing, and even a mixology bartending set". But, failing that, she maintains that cozy gifts, such as a good comfy blanket, will always be a winner. If you're in need of some guidance for the perfect gifts for Taurus signs, get ready for Taurus season with these 18 amazing options that will make this gentle sign feel truly appreciated.

Best gifts for each Zodiac sign

While you're probably shopping for the Taurean your life, it can also be fun to consider buying gifts for your other loved ones based on their star sign. See our full round-up of all the sign-based gift guides here:

• Gifts for Aries: active and bold gifts for this fiery, fiesty sign
• Gifts for Gemini: fun and practical gifts for both sides of their personality
• Gifts for Cancer: meaningful and sentimental gifts for this sensitive sign
• Gifts for Leo: daring and dramatic gifts for this bold and bright sign
• Gifts for Virgo: gift ideas to help this organized sign get their life in order
• Gifts for Libra: this charming sign will love these beauty and makeup gifts
• Gifts for Scorpio: gifts ideas for deep souls and adrenaline junkies
• Gifts for Sagittarius: fun and playful gifts for this child-at-heart sign
• Gifts for Capricorn: practical yet fun gifts for the Zodiac's most put-together sign
• Gifts for Aquarius: quirky and tech gifts for this eccentric sign
• Gifts for Pisces: self-care gifts and creative ideas for this chilled-out sign

Meet the experts on gifts for Taurus

• Noush Joon is an intuitive astrologer at astrology website Girl and her Moon who specializes in properties of nature, human psychology, energy healing and self-development.
• Narayana Montúfaris a senior astrologer for Astrology.com who specializes in birth charts.

Best gifts for Taurus

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With their natural leadership traits and love for adrenaline, looking for great gifts for Aries is an easy task—as there are plenty of brilliant options out there for their competitive, fiery spirit.

Buying someone one of the best astrology gifts based on their zodiac sign is a great idea if you're keen to tune into the unique traits of your loved one. And if you're struggling for inspiration for an Aries pal, there are a wealth of choices. For this fiery sign, think bright and vibrant accessories, gym-wear to help them smash the competition (even if that competition is their own personal best) and, of course, self-care tools to help them relax after all that excitement. Beneath all of their competitive spirit though, is a warm and, as astrology expert Noush Joon from Girl and Her Moon points out, "passionate" personality. They're not afraid of standing out and have a "sharp energy about them"—and love presents that reflect this bold side of them.

Whether you're shopping for Aries season, or prepping for the festive season, these 18 gifts for Aries will make them glow like the fiery sign they are. And if you're searching for other non-zodiac related gifts, we've also rounded up some great cozy gift ideas, and thoughtful wellness gifts for the self-care obsessive in your life.

Best gifts for each Zodiac sign

While you're probably shopping for the Aries sign in your life, shopping according to the zodiac can also be a great way to get inspiration for your other loved ones. See our gift guides according to each sign here:

• Gifts for Taurus: cozy and luxury gifts for the zodiac's most affectionate sign
• Gifts for Gemini: practical and pretty gifts they can use to satisfy their curiosity
• Gifts for Cancer: sentimental and meaningful gift ideas for this caring sign
• Gifts for Leo: bright and bold gifts for most dramatic sign around
• Gifts for Virgo: gift ideas to help this organized sign get their life in order
• Gifts for Libra: luxury gifts and pamper ideas for charming Librans
• Gifts for Scorpio: thoughtful and adventurous gift ideas for a passionate sign
• Gifts for Sagittarius: playful and travel gifts for a sign that loves experiences
• Gifts for Capricorn: practical yet fun gifts for the Zodiac's most put-together sign
• Gifts for Aquarius: quirky and colorful present ideas for a quirky sign
• Gifts for Pisces: shop self-care gifts and creative presents for your Pisces loved one

Meet the experts on gifts for Aries

• Noush Joon is an intuitive astrologer at astrology website Girl and her Moon who specializes in properties of nature, human psychology, energy healing and self-development
• Narayana Montúfar is a senior astrologer for Astrology.com who specializes in birth charts

Best gifts for Aries

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• View at Amazon in the US
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