Its range is the talk of TikTok and legendary within the hair industry, so whenever Olaplex launches a new product, team My Imperfect Life listens. Hence why one of our beauty experts had to get her hands on the newest addition to provide you with a thorough Olaplex Volumizing Blow Dry Mist review.

The best Olaplex products are known for their bond-building abilities, thanks to patented technology that works to repair damage in each strand of hair. And while the No. 3 treatment is the at-home hero of the hour, the brand has several great styling products on offer to help you build a haircare routine for damaged hair—including this newbie.

Here’s what you need to know about the latest launch from the brand, Volumizing Blow Dry Mist, from its key ingredients to what it's like to use and how it actually performs, according to a beauty expert.

A beauty editor’s honest review of the Olaplex Volumizing Blow Dry Mist

Ingredients: What’s in the Olaplex Volumizing Blow Dry Mist?

First and foremost, the Olaplex Volumizing Blow Dry Mist contains the same patented bond-building ingredient that is found across the entire range. As a spray, it’s not going to give you as much reparative action as the treatment or No. 8 Mask, but it’s a feature that’s unique to the brand all the same. 

The other ingredients in the formula that the brand calls out are pea peptides, which work to shield your hair from humidity, and polymers and jackfruit polysaccharides to smooth and hold, promising to do so without any crunch. I'd also note that it smells great—the same as the Olaplex Dry Shampoo—slightly sweet but not overpoweringly so.

Application: How to apply Olaplex Volumizing Blow Dry Mist

The first time I used it, I focused mine at the roots because this is the only area where my hair falls flat (although the strands aren’t particularly thick, I have quite a lot of hair with natural body). However, it’s designed to be used all over as an all-rounder first and foremost, then more is applied for a volume-boosting hit. The instructions from the brand are as follows. 

1. Apply the mist all over clean, damp hair.
2. Blow dry your hair until it is around 75% dry. 
3. For more volume, apply more mist to the hair at this stage, focusing on the roots.
4. Section and blow dry the hair away from the roots, or use a round brush to lift the roots.
5. Repeat steps 3 and 4 if re-styling dry hair. 

My hair needs a fair bit of moisture, so I layered the mist on top of a couple of other of my go-to products—which those following an Olaplex routine for curly hair will also do. But for those who keep styling products to a minimum because they are worried about weighing their hair down, this formula is very fluid and the spray bottle itself dispenses an ultra-fine mist. It's not completely undetectable on the hair, as I felt it created a little texture to give that root lift, but it's not sticky or at all heavy feeling.

The verdict: Is Olaplex Volumizing Blow Dry Mist worth it?

I wouldn't go as far as to say that I was blown away by this product—though I'd caveat this by saying I try a lot of hair care products as part of my job!—but I think that existing Olaplex fans and those who like to invest in their haircare products will enjoy this newcomer.

While I did initially think its name suggested more of a root-lifting volumizing spray, the product is more of an all-rounder that smooths, holds, and adds a little volume and body. It’s not particularly moisturizing, so bear in mind that you’ll need to get this from other steps in your haircare and styling routine if your hair has a level of dryness. I'm looking forward to continuing to experiment with it in my routine. 

The price tag is in more premium territory, no question, but because the mist is so fine I think the product would last a fair amount of time. All in all, this is a nice addition to the Olaplex line-up that I’ll definitely continue to use when blow drying my hair at home.

I’ve done my fair share of searching high and low for a roster of sunscreens that I can always rely on. Unsurprisingly, it’s not been easy to find a sunscreen that moisturizes my normal-to-dry skin and doesn’t leave a white cast.

However, that was until I wondered, "is Bondi Sands good?" to which a friend gushed over how much of a game-changer it's been in his daily makeup routine. Admittedly I’d neglected a bottle hidden in my stash, but I jumped at the chance to try it after the conversation—intrigued to see if it was truly one of the best face sunscreens. 

The Bondi Sands sunscreen is formulated with an array of hydrating ingredients, from aloe vera to vitamin E, to not only keep skin feeling plumped and hydrated but also to protect and repair. If these product specs tick any of your boxes for a new sunscreen, read on for my full Bondi Sands sunscreen review.

The need to know

• RRP: $9.99
• Best for: All skin types
• SPF rating: 50+
• Key ingredients: Aloe vera, vitamin E
• USP: Hydrating, water-resistant, UVA & UVB protection
• Consistency/texture: Lightweight lotion 
• White cast: No

A beauty editor's honest Bondi Sands Sunscreen Lotion SPF 50+ review 

Bondi Sands Sunscreen ingredients

Is Bondi Sands sunscreen safe? The brand boasts a hydrating water-resistant formula—which claims to deliver up to 72 hours of hydration and up to four hours of water resistance—with soothing Aloe vera and antioxidant vitamin E to leave skin feeling deeply moisturized. It provides a high level of protection against both UVA and UVB rays. So this is definitely a sunscreen to add to your list.

The fragrance-free formula is also available in both a tinted and fluid version. As the formula is free from other irritants, the brand markets it as being suitable and gentle enough for all skin types. The lotion is non-sticky and effortlessly absorbs into the skin, leaving no white cast in its wake.

How do you use Bondi Sands sunscreen?

I found this sunscreen to be incredibly easy to use, as it sinks into the skin in just a few swipes. I also found the lotion formula to be easier to apply than very fluid sunscreen formulas, as it stays put without any runniness. The packaging is also super informative, providing three easy steps on how to apply, which are as follows. 

• Step 1: Shake well before use. 
• Step 2: Apply liberally and evenly to all unprotected areas 15 to 20 minutes before exposure to the sun. 
• Step 3: Re-apply every two hours, or more frequently when sweating or after swimming, exercise, or towel drying. 

During my morning skincare routine, I’ll usually begin by using a cleanser, serum, and eye cream, and then go in with a moisturizer followed by sunscreen. That said, I've recently found myself skipping moisturizer in favor of sunscreens that offer a great amount of hydration and protection.

This formula leaves a really nice standout glow on the skin, which looks nice alone or underneath makeup. When it comes to how much sunscreen you should be applying, Dr. Hiba Injibar, consultant dermatologist at Dermasurge Clinic says: "It’s recommended to apply 2 milligrams of sunscreen per square centimeter of exposed skin. A better way of remembering is to follow the 'two-finger rule'—apply enough sunscreen to cover two fingers on the area being protected.”

She adds: “Ensure your sunscreen is a minimum SPF 30+ for maximum protection. Most people tend to apply less sunscreen than required, resulting in an SPF lower than the labeled value."

What is the Bondi Sands Sunscreen like to wear?

I’ve found myself gravitating toward the Bondi Sands sunscreen on almost a daily basis over the past few weeks. The hydrating formula has done wonders for my normal-to-dry skin type—so I'd also deem it one of the best sunscreens for dry skin—leaving it feeling hydrated and looking glowy from start to finish.

As mentioned, I like how well it sits with other skincare products and with makeup over the top. In the past, I’ve found some sunscreen formulas to be a hassle with makeup that wasn’t a cream formula due to pesky pilling. However, I’m happy to report that, no matter the formula of your makeup products, from powders to liquid, there’s no budging or pilling.

Is Bondi Sands Sunscreen worth it?

Is Bondi Sands sunscreen good? Well, it certainly exceeded all my expectations and has rightfully earned a place front and centre in my skincare routine. At less than 10 bucks this is also one of the more affordable sunscreens currently on the market and is definitely worth adding to your roster. I'd implore you to seek it out and test it for yourself.

How does the Bondi Sands sunscreen hold up?

There aren’t many sunscreens on the market that hold up to the Bondi Sands Sunscreen Lotion SPF50+ when factoring in price, its high protection factor and the fact that it’s not only hydrating but leaves an added glow to the skin.

However, a few that do factor in most of the Bondi Sands sunscreen USPs include Escentual’s Sunscreen SPF 50+ which at £11.92 for 50ml is pretty on par and sinks into the skin for a hydrating finish with no white cast. The sunscreen is also part of Escentual’s sun poverty initiative to fight growing skin cancer cases in the UK by donating thousands of sunscreens to children on free school meals, providing sun safety education, and leading a campaign to abolish VAT on children’s sunscreen to parliament.

Another similar product that I rate is Glossier’s Invisible Shield which feels as lightweight as a serum and absorbs really gently into the skin. It’s another sunscreen that looks nice on its own or underneath makeup. However, despite similarities, Glossier’s sunscreen is a protection of SPF 30 for a 30ml bottle at $25.

My Imperfect Life's verdict on the Bondi Sands Sunscreen

If my glowing review didn't make it clear, I’ve really been enjoying this Bondi Sands sunscreen. The price is definitely a key selling point for me but overall, its gentle fragrance-free and hydrating formula is what makes it.

Additionally, as I’m someone who wears makeup on a weekly basis, I really like that the formula doesn’t get in the way of that and, if anything, adds to my glow.

Supergoop! is one of those brands that, to our knowledge, everybody with an ounce of interest in skincare seems to love. That’s why one of our contributing beauty experts has compiled a detailed Supergoop! sunscreen review, putting some of the key formulas through their paces.

Makers of some of the best face sunscreen buys on the market for over 15 years, the brand is recognized for its sunny yellow packaging and leading sun-shielding formulas. It's also a brand that does a lot of good, through its free postal recycling program and another that donates sunscreen to schools. 

If you’re yet to purchase anything from the brand and want to learn more about whether it’s any good before parting with cash, our Supergoop! review ahead will equip you with everything you need to know. 

The need to know

• Skin types: All
• Price range: from $12
• USP: SPF products that work for every skin type and lifestyle, including unique formats such as eyeshadow
• Formulas: Mineral and chemical formulas
• Do products leave a white cast: None that we tried

Supergoop! sunscreen review by a beauty editor 

What's in the Supergoop! sunscreen range?

Supergoop! came to be after founder Holly Thaggard made it her mission to learn more about the sun's damaging effects following a friend's skin cancer diagnosis. The brand was born as part of her mission to get more people wearing sunscreen every day, all year round, by creating formulas that are the opposite of what you might call the “traditional” notion of sunscreen—thick, greasy, and uncomfortable to wear. It's an SPF-only brand, so you know they're committed to the cause. 

You may be wondering, is Supergoop! non-comedogenic? There’s a list on the brand’s website confirming that a lot of the products are, yes, including most of the facial sunscreen options. Deciding “is Supergoop safe” for you will depend on whether there are specific sunscreen ingredients you hope to avoid on each product's ingredient list, but the brand has a lengthy "No List" on its website breaking down every ingredient they formulate without.

The 40+ product range is far more extensive in the brand's US home than in other territories (I'm based in the UK), covering body sunscreens supersize editions, more makeup-skincare hybrids, and products that are suitable for babies and children, but the core facial range includes the following—though do note that some of the SPF ratings differ between territories.

• Play Everyday Lotion SPF 50: an all-rounder traditional sunscreen 
• Unseen Sunscreen SPF 40: a clear gel primer-sunscreen hybrid 
• Mineral Mattescreen SPF 40: a whipped matte primer-sunscreen hybrid
• Mineral Sheerscreen SPF 30: a mineral sunscreen promising a "featherlight" feel
• Glowscreen SPF 40: a glowy primer-sunscreen hybrid
• (Re)setting 100% Mineral Powder SPF 35: a powder sunscreen

Packaging is recyclable and made from post-consumer recycled materials—and you can return your empties through the free TerraCycle partner program. Very handily, particularly for those unfamiliar with industry symbols, each product’s expiration date is also printed on the bottom of its cardboard carton.

Supergoop! sunscreen ingredients: what's in the formulas?

The word “clean” is very subjective as a beauty industry term, so I tend to avoid using it where possible—but, as mentioned, at the heart of Supergoop! is a considerable list of ingredients they don’t feature in their sunscreen formulas. This includes oxybenzone and octinoxate, which have some of the biggest reputations for reef damage, as well as anatase titanium dioxide and para-aminobenzoic acid (PABA).

Key active ingredients that do feature on some of the INCI lists include avobenzone, octocrylene, octisalate, homosalate, titanium dioxide, and zinc oxide. There are both mineral and chemical sunscreen options on offer, as well as options to cater to all skin types—Unseen Sunscreen is oil-free, for example. 

Is Supergoop! sunscreen good?

On first impressions alone, yes. Starting on a looks and functionality note, the packaging looks chic with its super cheerful color scheme while maintaining an easy-to-use feel; I had no issues dispensing any of the products I’ve tried from the range—I break down more detailed reviews ahead—and each one yielded fuss-free application. 

One small bit of criticism: both Mattescreen and Unseen Sunscreen only come at an SPF of 30 in the UK, (higher at 40 in the US), and I like to use Factor 50 where possible. This is a non-negotiable in the summer months, so in my ideal world, these would be higher. That said, I do think it’s positive that every product has an SPF rating of at least 30, which in my experience is the minimum that many dermatologists recommend wearing, and am aware that lots of the formulas carry SPF 40 in the US.

How it holds up: Is Supergoop! sunscreen worth it?

Few brands can rival Supergoop!’s extensive sunscreen product range, which ticks off just about every possible SPF iteration, from lip balms to eyeshadow. Branding-wise Ultra Violette and Hello Sunday are two that spring to mind that also make sunscreen feel “cool”, though neither has as many products as you’ll find on Supergoop!’s website. Those with very sensitive skin might prefer to put their trust in brands that put skin science at the forefront, such as La Roche-Posay or Avène.

I’d put Supergoop! in the mid-range price bracket, but I think it’s more affordable than you’d judge from a glance. Sure, there are drugstore sunscreens that can be bought for less than Play Everyday Lotion’s $22 or £20 price tag for 2.4fl oz or 71ml of product—slightly larger than a standard 1.7fl oz/50ml. But compare this with affordable favorite Garnier’s Ambre Solaire Ultra-Light Sensitive Face Fluid SPF 50, £12 for 40ml in the UK, for example, and Supergoop! Play is actually marginally cheaper ml for ml. 

Which Supergoop! sunscreen is the best?

Although I couldn't test every single Supergoop! product for this review—partly because the range is more limited in the UK—I selected three of the best sellers to put through their paces, breaking down my thoughts on each. 

Overall, my first impressions of Supergoop! are that it’s an excellent brand—I’m keen to get my hands on more of the range during my next trip to the US! While I'd love to see more SPF 50 formulas available, there truly seems to be a product that ticks off almost every skin need, so check each product against your individual requirements and I’m confident you’ll find a new sun protection fave here. 

La Roche-Posay is one of those brands that can do no wrong. As a beauty editor, I try different brands all the time and, while some are often better than others, it's one that I’m always happy and confident to recommend to just about everybody—as my La Roche-Posay sunscreen review will prove.

It was the first brand that made a noticeable difference to my blemish-prone skin––and so you can imagine how happy I was when I learned that its sunscreen collection was pretty great, too.

Developed and formulated for sensitive skin, La Roche-Posay’s Anthelios franchise range launched over 20 years ago, and sitting within that is UVMune 400 Invisible Fluid SPF50+—one of the best face sunscreen buys on the market. The formula, which was reformulated and relaunched in 2022, is suitable for all skin types and promises to be invisible on the skin while offering very high protection—but how does it fare? Here’s our La Roche-Posay sunscreen review…

The need to know

• RRP: $31.99 for 1.7 oz
• Best for: All skin types, including sensitive
• SPF: 50+
• Key ingredients: Silica, glycerin
• USP: To protect skin against UV-induced damage and against UVA, UVB and long-UVA rays emitted from the skin
• How long the bottle lasted: Around four weeks 
• Consistency/texture: Watery/fluid 
• White cast? No

A beauty editor's La Roche-Posay Anthelios sunscreen review

La Roche-Posay sunscreen ingredients

It’s fair to say that the main focus of La Roche-Posay’s Anthelios sunscreen is to protect the skin against the harmful UV rays emitted from the sun. That means, unlike some formulas, it doesn’t promise any additional benefits besides its protective properties.

However, that’s not necessarily a bad thing, especially when its core focus is on the UV filters used. Alongside those filters that protect against UVA and UVB rays, it contains an exclusive one called Mexoryl400, which defends against ultra-long UVA rays (said to make up 30% of the UV spectrum). And it’s those ultra-long rays that penetrate deeper into the skin than UVA and UVB, meaning they cause more significant damage to collagen structures—in turn, that can cause everything from wrinkles and sagging to pigmentation and sun spots. 

It’s also worth noting that, while the brand doesn’t market this as a hydrating product, the formula does contain glycerin, a naturally occurring humectant that helps skin retain moisture. And if you’re wondering, this La Roche-Posay sunscreen is safe for anybody.

Use: How do you use La Roche-Posay Anthelios sunscreen?

One of the main things I like about this sunscreen is that it’s so easy to apply. A pleasant experience, its fluid texture absorbs and blends into the skin like a dream and feels virtually weightless once rubbed in, leaving skin feeling fresh and comfortable and with a healthy-looking, lit-from-within glow. As for whether you apply sunscreen or moisturizer first, it's always the last step in your skincare routine before makeup. 

It might take a few uses to get to grips with how runny and watery the formula is, but that won’t take long to figure out. I personally find it best to either apply it using the two-finger method—which means applying product from the tip to the bottom of your index and middle fingers before rubbing it in—or by liberally squeezing it into one hand, gently patting them together and then applying it to my face. Experts agree that you should apply around a 2.5ml of product for your face and ears, but there’s no such thing as too much, so always be generous with application to ensure you’re getting the right amount of protection.

Experience: What was the La Roche-Posay Anthelios sunscreen like to wear?

One of the main excuses I hear regarding why people don’t wear sunscreen every day is because it feels heavy, greasy, or oily on skin—but this one is none of those things. It does feel a little bit tacky when it’s first applied, but that quickly subsides and once it's dried down it's all but invisible; it doesn’t leave a white cast and it plays really well with skincare and makeup.

I apply it on top of my usual antioxidant serum and underneath my best foundation, and I’ve never had any issues with it pilling, so it should work well with the best vitamin C serums or best hyaluronic acid serums, for example. I also like that it’s a non-comedogenic formula, so it won’t ever clog pores and cause further breakouts. It’s also been rigorously tested on the most sensitive of skin types, so you can rest assured that it won’t cause any irritation. However, one thing to be aware of is that the bottle needs a good shake before application—you’ll hear a little ball inside that helps to ensure the formula is adequately combined.

Value: Is the La Roche-Posay Anthelios sunscreen worth it?

As somebody who’s fussy about their sunscreen but who’s tried and tested hundreds of different formulas, I can safely—and confidently—say that La Roche-Posay Anthelios sunscreen is one of the very best, and I don't think you'll be disappointed if you try it.

The only slight sticking point is that it does smell quite strongly of "traditional" sun cream, and while that’s not something that really bothers me, it’s definitely something to be aware of.

How it holds up

There’s a very good reason why this sunscreen is a bestseller for La Roche-Posay (and why it was the number one selling mass product in UK retailer Boots last year), but there are cheaper—similar—products available depending on your budget. At just over $30, I’d still call it affordable, but I appreciate that e.l.f.’s Suntouchable! Whoa Glow SPF30 is less than half the price at $14.

Byoma SPF 30 Gel Moisturiser is also a steal at only $18.99. However, while each of these buys may be similar in texture, I don’t think you can get anything that quite compares in terms of the filters at the same price as La Roche-Posay’s sunscreen.

My Imperfect Life’s verdict on the La Roche-Posay Anthelios sunscreen

Overall, I can’t fault this La Roche-Posay sunscreen at all—it offers incredible protection against the sun’s most harmful rays, it’s been tested on even the most sensitive of skin types, it’s lightweight, easy to apply, works well as a makeup primer and doesn’t pill when applied on top of other skincare. It’s truly second to none, and the $32 price point is extremely reasonable and fair, if you ask me.

As a sunscreen-obsessed beauty editor, I’ve made it my own personal mission to hunt out the very best in affordable, lightweight products—and one of my all-time favorite discoveries of the last few years is Garnier Ambre Solaire Anti-Dark Spots & Anti-Pollution Super UV SPF 50+ (formerly Ultra-Light Sensitive Sun Protection Face Fluid). I love it so much that I am constantly recommending it to anybody who will listen and, as a result, a few of my friends now consider it their favorite, too.

I’m also incredibly aware that finding the best face sunscreen that suits you isn’t always the easiest of tasks. But thanks to the impressive development of skincare technology, the barriers that once existed are slowly but surely being broken down. In my opinion, a good sunscreen should be affordable, lightweight, sit well under makeup, and be virtually invisible once dried down and blended into skin—and Garnier’s SPF 50 ticks each of those boxes.

My skin sits somewhere between oily and dry and I’m prone to hormonal breakouts, so I always ensure that any sunscreen I try is non-comedogenic (i.e. it won’t clog pores). Here is my full, in-depth Garnier sunscreen SPF 50 review…

The need to know

• Best for: All skin types
• SPF rating: 50+
• Key ingredients: Vitamin E, hyaluronic acid
• USP/aim: Protect skin from damage caused by harmful UVA/UVB rays and sun-induced dark spots, while ensuring it remains hydrated
• How long it lasted: Around a month for one bottle
• Consistency/texture: Watery, easy to blend in
• Does it leave a white cast? Not once rubbed in properly

A beauty editor's in-depth Garnier sunscreen SPF 50 review 

Garnier sunscreen SPF 50+ ingredients

Aside from the sunscreen filters (this one is a chemical formula meaning it absorbs UV rays, rather than a mineral formula which works by deflecting the rays), this product contains hyaluronic acid.

This is popular for a very good reason: it’s a super hydrator that’s able to hold up to 1,000 times its own weight in water, so it helps to ensure skin remains nourished and plump. It also contains vitamin E which is a powerful antioxidant that works to help protect against free radical damage and reduces visible signs of aging. If you’re wondering whether this Garnier sunscreen is safe, the answer is yes, plus it’s non-comedogenic, meaning it won’t clog pores.

Use: How do you use Garnier sunscreen SPF 50+?

One of the things I love most about this particular sunscreen is how easy it is to apply and how well it absorbs into skin to leave a seamless finish. As well as ensuring that you apply sunscreen every single day—even when it’s cloudy outside and throughout winter—it’s important to make sure you’re applying enough to get the specified level of protection.

Most experts agree that you should apply 2.5ml of product to your face, but an easier way to measure that is to use the "two-finger method". Put simply, that means applying two lines of sunscreen from top to bottom of your index and middle fingers and using that as a guide.

I do find that it’s quite runny so you need to act quickly, but it’s super easy to then gently press your hands together before rubbing it all over your face. It absorbs quickly, feels lightweight, and is virtually invisible on skin once it’s sunk in—it does feel slightly greasy or tacky for a few minutes immediately after application, but that quickly subsides and leaves skin feeling soft and hydrated, ready for makeup application.

Experience: What is the Garnier sunscreen SPF 50+ like to wear?

One of my sunscreen non-negotiables is that it sits well both underneath makeup and on top of my daily skincare (which usually includes an antioxidant serum and a hydrating serum), because there’s nothing worse than having the different layers pill and ball up. Thankfully, I’ve never had any issues with Garnier’s SPF 50. Instead, it plays really nicely—it’s super comfortable on skin, in fact so comfortable that you’ll probably forget you’ve even applied it. 

Depending on how dry my skin feels, I will sometimes apply a moisturizer underneath the sunscreen and that doesn’t impact the way it sits on skin, and my foundation always remains looking and feeling flawless. Another huge plus point is that it doesn’t leave a white cast: on me, it absorbs almost instantly, and if you do notice any sort of residue after applying it, that does dissipate after a few minutes.

Value: Is the Garnier sunscreen SPF 50+ worth it?

In short, yes, absolutely. The £12 price point is more than reasonable for a product of this caliber. I trust Garnier implicitly when it comes to sun protection, and the fact it's a brand that makes its formulas cosmetically pleasing, easy to wear, and accessible is what sets it apart from other brands.

If you’ve struggled to find a sunscreen that you enjoy wearing daily, that doesn’t create any issues and won’t irritate skin or cause breakouts, add this one to your shopping list, pronto.

How the Garnier sunscreen SPF 50+ holds up against others

I think it’s important to note that there was a time when this product—at this price point—was an anomaly, but affordable and effective sunscreens are cropping up all the time, and whilst this one remains a firm favorite of mine, Bondi Sands’ Hydra SPF 50+ is very similar and is slightly cheaper at £11.

Another similar product is Thank You Farmer’s Sun Light Project Light Sun Essence; in terms of texture and ease of application there isn’t much difference, but it is more expensive at £24. However, I think that’s entirely justified as it offers a better blend of hydration ingredients, thanks to its Korean heritage. Garnier's is also very similar in texture and formulation to La Roche-Posay’s Anthelios UVMune 400 Invisible Fluid SPF 50—but at £19.90, the latter is a bit more expensive. 

My Imperfect Life’s verdict on the Garnier sunscreen SPF 50+

In case it isn’t already obvious, or if you’re wondering whether or not this Garnier sunscreen is good, the answer is a resounding yes.

Having used up numerous bottles over the last few years, I’m confident that anybody who tries it will like it, and won’t be able to find much not to like about it. It’s fuss-free, effective, and super reasonably priced—and for me, that’s everything that I ask for. 

As someone who loves the idea of lip gloss, but hates the stickiness, I tried the viral-favorite Gisou honey-infused lip oil and I 100% get the hype.

Whether you're in pursuit of the best non-comedogenic foundations or the best date night perfumes, TikTok is our first stop for all things beauty, especially when it comes to the latest beauty trends and must-have products—like the Rare Beauty tinted moisturizer or e.l.f halo glow filter. And right now, lip oils are having a major moment. They've even started to spread from our lips right on down to our fingertips, with lip oil nails making their way up the list of 2023 spring nail trends. 

Lip oils promise the hydration of a lip balm and the reflective, super juicy shine of a lip gloss—but are they really worth retiring your favorite Glossier balm dot com or Fenty Gloss Bomb over? Well, I've put TikTok's favorite Gisou lip oil to the test, as someone who loves both glosses and balms but literally can't stand the stickiness.

A beauty writer's honest thoughts on the Gisou Honey Infused Lip Oil

The Gisou lip oil, much like the famous Glossier balms, boasts some very adorable packaging—with its wave-shaped glass bottle, pink lid and aesthetic branding. So, that's one tick in its favor because who doesn't love a cute lippie in their handbag?

• View at Sephora

But is the formula really as cute as it looks? Well, TikTok seems to think so—with the hashtag 'gisoulipoil' itself having over 34 million views to its name and a plethora of videos shining its shiny praises.

What's in the Gisou Honey Infused Lip Oil?

So, what's in this magical lip oil that makes it worth its $32 price tag and TikTok viral status? Well first of all, as the name would suggest, the formula includes honey (Mirsalehi honey to be exact) which is rich in antioxidants and has long been celebrated for its healing and nourishing properties. This oil is made from 99.5% natural ingredients and packed with vitamins, minerals, and amino acids as well as hydrating hyaluronic acid—which is already a beloved skincare ingredient. 

After each use, Gisou claims your lip will be "softer, smoother, plumper, more defined with a naturally healthy shine," with the oil working to intensely hydrate and restore chapped and dry lips—something I'm definitely in desperate need of. 

My verdict on the Gisou Honey Infused Lip Oil

After watching endless videos on this golden nectar of a lip product, I must admit I was very excited to try this oil. Especially as someone who loves the effect of lip gloss but not the tackiness of it, or the act of plying your hair off your lips after the smallest gust of wind and then enduring hair that's sticky with lip gloss reside for the rest of the day.

I'm also a big fan of lip balms, as I do suffer from dryness or chapped lips pretty much on the daily—so a less-sticky but hydrating and glossy lip oil seemed very up my alley. So, how did the Gisou oil stack up to my expectations, you ask? Well, to put it simply—I love it.

While I still find it a teeny tiny bit sticky, it's no way near what I've experienced with most lip glosses and even some balms I've tried previously. I live in the UK, so windy weather is pretty much a given and so far, after a week of wear, I've not found myself with any strands of hair stuck to my lips. 

It also feels so comfortable and luxurious on the lips (which it should, for $32 a pop!) and the gleam it gives the lips, oh my god. It's so pretty, it gives your lips a 'yours but better' look, with the perfect glass-like shine—which, as someone who hates the whole lip gloss stickiness issue, is something I thought I could never achieve without serious discomfort.

While the oil is golden in color, like honey, it gives a similar effect to a clear gloss, but I also felt it gave my natural lip color a juicy boost—making it perfect for both a day and night look.

The only downside to this oil is that I'm not 100% convinced of its long-term benefits, as I did still experience some chapped skin, though my lips do definitely feel overall softer after use. I also didn't find it plumping, but it did seem to last on the lips longer than a lot of balms I've tried before, without drying out. It mainly won points with me for its look on the lips and wearability.

Another thing to note is its scent. If you're a lover of heavily scented lip products, you might not love this as it has a very soft honey smell, that doesn't really linger. Personally, I preferred this as sometimes flavored lip balms make me hungry...

The few cons aside though, I can safely say that this lip oil is my new go-to, for both my balm and gloss needs because who doesn't love a multipurpose makeup product? You basically get two lip products for the price of one. I have taken to applying it before bed, instead of my lip balm because I just love the feel and application of it—plus I'm a real sucker for its packaging.

What really won me over though was just finally getting to have that glossy-lip look that lasts and is comfortable to wear out and about, without feeling like I've got syrup all over my mouth. So, if you're like me and love gloss but just can't wear it without discomfort, you might want to add a lip oil (I'd recommend this one) to your next beauty haul.

Olaplex’s products have been making headlines for almost a decade, so when the brand drops a new product, our ears immediately prick up. To that end, our beauty expert’s Olaplex dry shampoo review is here to take you through the newest addition to the range. 

The best Olaplex products are famous for their bond-building technology; repairing damage caused by factors like heat or color. Bond builders as a category have surged in recent months, but Olaplex has been doing this for a while and has now turned its attention to a much-relied-upon classic. 

The latest haircare buy to join the coveted line-up is their 4D Dry Shampoo, promising a weightless formula without the gritty or chalky look and feel historically associated with this kind of product. So, will it become as iconic as Olaplex No.3? Our contributing beauty expert breaks it down below.

A beauty editor's honest review of the Olaplex dry shampoo

Ingredients—what’s in the Olaplex Dry Shampoo?

Without getting into too much of a science lesson, what sets the Olaplex products apart is its patented bond building technology—a molecule that repairs damaged and broken bonds in the hair. It features in everything from the cult treatment to No.4P Purple Shampoo, so it’s no great surprise that this technology features in No.4D Dry Shampoo formula, too. 

The rice starch in the formula is described as “ultra fine micro starch”, contributing to its non-chalky and weightless feel. Also billed is extract of rambutan seed, which the brand notes is a sustainable source of antioxidants and therefore fends off pollutants and impurities—great news for city-dwellers. And, as with the entire Olaplex range, it's also both cruelty-free and vegan.

Application—how to apply Olaplex Dry Shampoo

Unlike treatments like the Olaplex No.8 mask, No.4D is used on dry hair. It can either be used between washes to help freshen things up, or you can use it on clean hair to add a bit of volume or as a pre-emptive option before, say, working out. Per the instructions on the minimalist can, here’s how you should use it:

1. Shake the can well
2. Section off your hair—this will ensure you get dry shampoo into the under layers 
3. Hold the nozzle six to 10 inches (15 to 25cm) away from your hair
4. Spray the formula onto your roots
5. Wait 30 seconds
6. Massage the product in

Olaplex No. 4D Dry Shampoo is an aerosol, so it's recommended that you store it in a cool, dark place such as a bathroom cabinet or cupboard when you aren't using it. 

The verdict—is Olaplex Dry Shampoo worth it?

Before getting into my feedback, I feel it's important to acknowledge the price. There is no getting around the fact that 30 bucks is toward the top end of the dry shampoo price bracket. It’s lasted me a reasonable amount of time so far, but for most people who go through cans and cans of dry shampoo this kind of price is more of a "treat" purchase. 

Putting that to one side, this is a good formula, and the area it really excels is its invisibility. I’ve tried several dry shampoos that promise to leave no white residue but that require a lot of rubbing before they disappear—and sometimes they don't do so completely. That’s not the case with this formula, which I found was almost invisible, so you can rest easy if you have darker hair. In my opinion, it would also work well as part of an Olaplex routine for curly hair. 

Its cleaning powers are good, though there are dry shampoos I feel offer a superior clean, so be mindful of this if you’re really pushing your next hair wash and trying it for the first time. But it has a nice scent that doesn't catch in the back of your throat, and freshens things up well. If you like dry shampoo to add a lot of volume and texture, it probably won’t be right for you, as I didn’t find that it adds lots and lots of lift—the effect is a nice lift that's subtler than other formulas, as it’s designed not to have that gritty feel that adds texture. Overall, though? I think this is a great addition to the Olaplex lineup.

As a devout lover of all things dewy, I tried Glossier's Haloscope highlighter and here's why I think it deserves more love...

Now that Glossier is at Sephora, you'll no doubt have found yourself all the more tempted to add a few of the millennial pink brand's hero products—like the Glossier Balm Dot Coms—to your next beauty haul. But which of Glossier's viral offerings should make the cut?

Well if you're a lover of all things glazed—whether it's glazed donut nails or Hailey Bieber's glazed foundation look—I'm about to make a case for Glossier's highlighter...

A beauty writer's honest review of the Glossier Haloscope highlighter

Now, before we dive into the details of this Haloscope Glossier review, allow me to first outline my makeup preferences and what I look for in a good highlighter to see if our requirements align.

My skin and makeup preferences

I have combination skin—in some areas, it's very dry, but in others, it gets oiler through the day. Thankfully, my skin is also fairly clear—minus some hormonal breakouts on my chin and some visible pores on my nose—so, I can get away with products that are on the greasier/more oily side. In fact, I mostly shy away from matte products—apart from powder, which I apply to my T-zone.

On the whole, I like to look as dewy as possible and as someone who does not drink nearly as much water as I should, my highlighter needs to work HARD to keep my skin looking hydrated and glowy.

On the daily, I keep my makeup very natural. I wear a glow filter, followed by a non-comedogenic foundation (specifically Armani's luminous silk foundation) and concealer when I need it, followed by my mascara (I've been loving the Rare Beauty Mascara lately), blush, a highlighter and eyebrow gel. 

My favorite steps in my routine are blush and highlighter, so I do not take the decision of adding one of these products to my regime lightly...

What's in the Glossier Haloscope?

So, onto the product at hand! Glossier's Haloscope comes in three shades; Topaz, Quartz and Moonstone—I've tested the latter, which is a pearly, iridescent shimmer.

The product itself is described as a 'dew effect highlighter' which is crystal-infused and boasts skin conditioning benefits. Off to a glowing start so far.

The stick features an outer core, dubbed the 'halo' which is made from crystal extracts—which are shiny, not glittery (so, if you hate glitter highlights this might be a game-changer for you). The inner core is oil-based, with a blend of Vitamin E, coconut, sweet almond oil and castor seed oil, meaning both the shimmer and oils blend together to deliver a sheen while also nourishing your skin. It's also cruelty-free and dermatologist tested.

• View at Sephora in the US

How to use Glossier Haloscope?

Haloscope is marketed as being easy and I would have to agree. If you're a makeup newbie or you're not very confident with liquid highlighters (like the Rare Beauty Liquid Luminizer), this could be a great option for you.

Now, it does come in stick form, so there is a temptation there to swipe it straight onto your cheeks but I would recommend that you actually apply it with your finger, as this really delivers that dewy, glazed effect and minimizes any disruption of your products underneath. It's a very oily product, so you only need a few dabs to get that light-reflecting shine.

Using your finger on the stick first also helps to warm up the product, as I've found in colder weather that it hardens—though it quickly returns to its oily goodness once worked with your fingertip.

Application-wise, a good rule with highlighter is to apply it to the high points of your face, where light usually bounces off—so your cheekbones, nose bridge and tip. For extra wow factor, you can also apply it to the inner corners of your eyes, your brow bones and your cupid's bow.

My verdict on the Glossier Haloscope highlighter

So, is this highlighter worth $22 (£18)? My answer is, yes. While it is a little pricey, it delivers everything it promises to do, especially with regards to dewiness. Plus a little goes a long way.

I would like to acknowledge, though, that this product might not be for everyone, as it is quite oily and can remain sticky on the skin. So, if you're someone with oiler skin, a powder highlighter might work better for you. However, if you're looking for that glass-skin effect (with minimal hassle), this product is an absolute dream.

I tried the shade 'Moonstone' which is an opalescent shade that really does make me look moon-kissed (as opposed to sunkissed, if that didn't read...). I've hunted far and wide for an easy product that just gives my cheeks that subtle, sheen without leaving a strange, greyish cast or leaving traces of glitter all over my face and hands—and Haloscope is it for me.

It's so easy to apply—I use my ringer finger and just dab it on my cheekbones, nose bridge, tip and cupid's bow. I do this gently, so as to not move my foundation or blush underneath and have found that that works well.

There are a few cons about this product though, which personally don't bother me but might be deal breakers for others. As mentioned, it does remain quite sticky to the touch once applied, but I quite like that for some reason, as it makes it feel dewy. It is also very subtle—it likely won't give you that blinding pop but it will give you a glossy finish, so it really boils down to your highlight preferences.

Skin-wise, it's never broken me out or left me with any irritation or clogged pores and I've also never noticed it cause any foundation piling.

So, if you, like me, are obsessed with all the words related to dewy, I would definitely recommend giving this highlighter a whirl. The product, while compact does last, as you only need a few dots from your finger to create that sheen. It's also very pretty but not glittery and makes your skin look very healthy and bright. I'd especially recommend this for summer when you want to wear less makeup or want an easy, glow-giving product to pack in your makeup travel bag.

I tried the Rare Beauty mascara as a lover of natural-looking, perfectly fanned-out lashes—and personally, I think it deserves a bit more love and attention...

It's safe to say that finding your go-to, daily mascara is just as important as selecting your best non-comedogenic foundation or ride-or-die sunscreen for your face. It's a very personal journey and one none of us beauty enthusiasts take lightly—especially when there's so much choice.

Do you opt for waterproof, brown, lengthening, or super volumizing? And how can you tell which of the best mascaras will deliver lusciously long lashes, without that pesky mascara flaking all over your cheeks before you drop your hard-earned cash on them? All very important questions.

Which is why I've done the leg work for you when it comes to the Rare Beauty Perfect Strokes mascara, wearing it on the daily, seven days a week. And much like with the Rare Beauty Tinted moisturizer, I have some thoughts...

A beauty writer's honest review of the Rare Beauty Perfect Strokes mascara

So, for anyone looking to splurge on some of Selena Gomez's viral Rare products (like the Rare Beauty Positive Light Liquid Luminizer) here are a few answers to any potential burning questions, plus a quick rundown of my makeup preferences, so you can determine if this mascara might also tick a few of your boxes.

My makeup preferences

Personally, I keep my makeup pretty natural. For my base I wear a glow filter (usually Charlotte Tilbury's Flawless filter), followed by Armani's Luminous Silk foundation, eyebrow gel, blush and highlighter.

Eye-wise, I keep it pretty minimal, just opting for mascara on a normal day—sometimes I pair it with an all-over eyeshadow, but I'm not really an eyeliner gal, despite there being some great eyeliners for beginners out there. So, I rely on my mascara to make me look awake and somewhat put together, while still keeping it natural—so preferably, no clumps in sight.

Is the Rare Beauty mascara waterproof?

Now, onto the key info, is the Rare Mascara waterproof? 

It's described as having a 'water-resistant formula,' so theoretically it should be able to withstand getting caught in a surprise rain shower or a gentle cry sesh. Technically though, it's not fully waterproof—but personally, I prefer that as it's easier to remove with a makeup remover or micellar water, without needing to be too vigorous.

How to apply the Rare Beauty mascara

To apply this mascara, I'd recommend curling your lashes first with your preferred eyelash curler, before then gently wiggling the mascara wand from side to side as you stroke up along your lashes, from root to tip. This side-to-side motion will feather out your lashes and will help to get an even coating on your lashes and avoid clumps.

What's in the Rare Beauty mascara?

This mascara is formulated with castor oil, which helps to condition and nourish your lashes—plus it's vegan, cruelty-free, paraben-free, ophthalmologist-tested, dermatologist-tested and suitable for anyone with sensitive eyes or contact lens wearers.

My Imperfect Life's verdict on the Rare Beauty mascara

So, is this Rare Beauty mascara good? My answer is yes. It does everything it promises to do—it's buildable, comfortable, volumizing and lasts all day without smudging.

I've worn it every day, seven days a week, for over a month, and haven't experienced any transferring or flaking. I'm also a big fan of its chunky tube, with its soft, matte pink finish. It feels expensive and looks soo cute in my makeup bag.

It's also easy to apply, even with a slightly large wand, which I wouldn't necessarily have gone for, but actually didn't find it in any way messy or hard to handle. In fact, with every use, it leaves my lashes looking lengthened, voluminous and curled up—and it lasts all day long, so everything you can really ask of a mascara. The formula itself feels great on the lashes as well, not super stiff or brittle.

Personally, I'm not a fan of waterproof mascaras because they're hard to remove, and as someone with sensitive eyes, I try to avoid rubbing my eyes too vigorously—something that's often unavoidable when it comes to water-wicking formulas. This Rare Beauty mascara fends off moisture well (from tears and even sweat from a gym sesh) but comes off like a dream with a bit of micellar water.

My main gripe with this product though, is that it's only available in black—if this came in a soft brown shade, it would be a real game-changer. There's also the question of the price...

This mascara will set you back $20 (£22) which is pretty pricey for a mascara. That being said—like with all of Rare's line-up—the amount of product you get for the money is generous since the tube is pretty chunky.

So, my final verdict: it's great and if you've been hunting far and wide for a mascara that is both gentle on your eyes but still delivers length and volume, this could be one to try. I will say this though, there are other mascaras out there that are comparable and more inexpensive on the market, but if you're a Selena stan looking to make another (or your first) Rare Beauty purchase, I'd definitely recommend it for the cute tube alone!

I tried the Rare Beauty Tinted Moisturizer as someone who loves natural-looking makeup and this is my honest verdict on the newest addition to the Positive Light family.

If you've been hunting for a product that evens out your complexion while also providing a bit of extra sun protection to boost your best sunscreen for face, a tinted moisturizer formulated with SPF is usually a good way to go. Plus, with summer approaching, now is the time that we usually swap our favorite non-comedogenic foundations for something a little lighter and sheerer, to let our skin breathe.

So I was ever so eager to try the Rare Beauty Positive Light Tinted Moisturizer—after having already put the Rare Beauty Liquid Luminizer and Rare mascara to the test—as I too, am on the hunt for a new tint to replace my fave Armani Luminous Silk foundation this sunny season.

So, whether you're already a Selena Gomez stan looking to make another Rare purchase, or are new to the singer's beauty brand—here's my Rare Beauty Tinted Moisturizer review...

A beauty writer's honest review on the Rare Beauty Tinted Moisturizer 

So, before we dive into whether Selena's tinted moisturizer is going to find a home next to the e.l.f halo glow filter in my makeup bag, let's first discuss my skin texture and makeup preferences...

My skin type

To help you suss out if this product might match up to your skin needs, I have very pale skin—I tested shade 12C, as I have cool undertones. As for my skin's texture, I am blessed with fairly clear skin, apart from some dryness and some stubborn pores on my nose.

My chin, on the other hand, isn't looking so cute thanks to some hormonal breakouts that have been plaguing me lately and I do have some heavy dark circles—because my toxic trait is being a self-proclaimed night owl, despite being a grown-up with a 9-5 job. 

So, I do tend to use products that offer medium to high coverage, though I still try to keep my makeup looking subtle and natural. 

My makeup preferences

As mentioned, I'm a lover of natural makeup, so my routine usually consists of a glow filter (either Charlotte Tilbury's Flawless filter or the e.l.f dupe), foundation, concealer, powder, blush, highlighter, eyebrow gel and lastly mascara.

Through my testing of the Rare Beauty Tinted Moisturizer, I layered it over my daily moisturizer (as I like to be as dewy as possible), as well as the Flawless Filter. I then went over with powder, but not foundation or concealer—so what you're seeing is the tinted moisturizer fully at work.

What's in the Positive Light Tinted Moisturizer?

This tinted moisturizer is available in 25 inclusive shades, which you can snag directly from Rare's website or Sephora—for anyone wondering "Does Ulta sell Rare Beauty?" alas, it does not.

It's described as: "A flexible tinted moisturizer that goes on easy to instantly blur skin with glowy, light to medium coverage that stays put—all while hydrating and protecting skin from the sun." 

It offers SPF 20, with moisturizing vitamin E and is cruelty-free, vegan, paraben free, suitable for sensitive skin, dermatologist-tested and non-comedogenic (so all the good stuff).

Now that's settled, let's quit the yammering and cut to the review!

My Rare Beauty Tinted Moisturizer review final verdict

So, is this Rare Tinted Moisturizer worth the hype and its $33 (£30) price tag? 

My first impression of this skin tint was one of pleasant surprise. Squeezing out a few drops onto the back of my hand, I applied it first with my fingers before going back in with my beauty blender to make sure it was all seamlessly blended—and I was pleased to discover no foundation pilling in sight! Past tinted SPFs I've tried have not played well with my glow filters or even my moisturizer, so this earned Selena a tick right off the bat.

I was also surprised by the coverage. As mentioned I do have some dark circles, zits and scarring, which I try to even out, and this tinted moisturizer did provide a blurring effect and evened out my complexion well.

However, I didn't find it as glowy as I was hoping. In fact, I felt it made my skin look a little dry—and as someone who loves to look as shiny as possible, this disappointed me a bit, as I was promised a glowy complexion. That being said though, I don't really mind adding in that sheen separately with a highlighter or a cream blush—especially for the coverage this gave, while still being just a tinted moisturizer.

As for its wearability, it's very comfortable, non-greasy and feels light, almost like a second skin—exactly what you want come the summer months. The color match was also perfect and I'm a big fan of the packaging—it's the perfect size to slip into your vacay makeup bag. That being said though, for $30, I'd hope it was a tad bigger—but a little (like with the viral Rare Beauty Soft Pinch blushes) does indeed go a long way.

So, is it worth the spend? Personally, I do think there are comparable tinted moisturizers out there for less, but it is a solid tinted moisturizer. I was impressed by the coverage and how light it felt on the skin—though to really win me over, it needed to deliver more of a glow.

I'd say that if you're looking for something you can wear on its own, with minimal or no concealer and powder, this is a great option. I'll definitely be reaching for this in the warmer months, when I still want some coverage but also something low-maintenance, that keeps my skin protected, while still letting it breathe.

If there's a new facial gadget on the scene, my antennas are up. Massaging tools, pore cleansing devices, light therapy, microcurrent devices—if there's a new 'didn't know that I needed it' gadget that can elevate my skincare routine, I want to know about it. But as soon as I saw the TheraFace Pro, I knew before trying it that it would become my go-to facial device.

Months of facial tension and sinus pressure had left me mastering the act of facial massage (which I still very much stand by), reaching for a plethora of massage tools—be it a crystal roller, cyro globe or sharp-edged gua sha—before settling into a sculpting routine using my knuckles (alongside a tool here and there). But when I saw that Therabody—known for the percussive massage technology in their famous Theragun—had released a massage gun for the face, I knew that it was a device that I very much did need to finally get that deep muscle relief I'd been looking for.

So I put the cutting-edge tech to the test—alongside its generous selection of attachments and technology—to see if it really was the solution I was looking for. And after TikTok compared the move to the revolutionary Dyson haircare pivot, my expectations were high...

Theraface Pro review

What is the Theraface Pro and what does it do?

It's Theragun for the face but oh so much more. The TheraFace Pro is essentially a full facial wrapped up in a pretty little handheld device. At its core, it's a robust facial massager that utilizes intense but comfortable percussive therapy to relieve tension in the facial muscles—but thanks to its array of attachments it allows you to dip your toe (or face) into a range of different beauty therapies like LED light therapy, microcurrent technology and deep cleansing.

It claims to help with jaw pain, fine lines and wrinkles, tension headaches, under-eye puffiness (with an optional extra attachment that needs to be purchased separately) and general facial pain, while also toning and firming the skin and improving the skin's texture.

What was the TheraFace Pro like to use?

On the whole, the TheraFace is relatively smooth and enjoyable to use. I'm a sucker for sharp and stylish features, so I love the extravagance of the swanky magnetic attachments. I also think it's a really considerate (and time-saving) feature that you can use the percussive attachment at the same time as the LED light therapy ring.

The buttons are slightly stiff to use and I'm not enamored by the 90's Gameboy-esque interface—plus it is pretty heavy compared to other facial gadgets that I've used, however, the velvety feel of the casing is a somewhat nice consolation for this.

Percussive Treatment

As a Therabody baby, the percussive treatment is of course the shining star of this multipurpose tool. Even the lowest speed setting makes for quite the tension reliever—however, each speed offers something slightly different. The lowest setting comes out in more of a rumble—almost like a drill—which I find makes it kind of bounce off my skin. For me, this speed works if you have a particular spot that you're trying to relieve tension on, as it really makes an impact every time it pulls back and then projects forward to make contact with the skin again.

As you cycle through the following two speeds, the percussion gets slightly faster and smoother each time, which I think works really well for a full facial massage. The third (and strongest) setting is especially good for toning and sculpting the complexion. For me, the only drawback was that it made me feel slightly motion sick (but I am prone to this!), as it's a lot of movement on the head.

Facial Cleansing Brush

I really enjoyed using the facial cleansing brush setting on this, as—unlike the percussive attachments—it covered a pretty large area while emitting the vibrations, so it really worked to relieve that pent-up tension in my face. I definitely found that it was stronger than other facial cleansing brushes that I've used—like the PMD Clean and the Foreo Luna—and it features really lovely soft silicone bristles that are slightly longer and more flexible than those two certain competitors.

However, unlike those alternative devices, the actual body of the TheraFace Pro isn't waterproof, so I did find it kind of awkward to wash my face with, as I was having to battle with keeping any water confined to the head of the device only. You can get away with it, but I would advise sticking to a cream or non-foaming cleanser to avoid excess wetness. I've also devised an alternative treatment to use this setting for, so now use it to do an exfoliating massage (with a gel serum/moisturizer) when I need some extra tension relief in my facial muscles.

LED Light Therapy

The device comes with three different options for LED light therapy—red light for general anti-aging, blue for its antibacterial properties (that help to tackle acne) and infrared, which specifically targets fine lines and wrinkles. It was really easy to use this setting—both to treat the skin and cycle through the treatments. It also makes for a speedier treatment than using other LED-specific devices, as you can use the LED light ring simultaneously with the percussive setting to get the benefits from both without having to do separate treatments. However, just be aware that you shouldn't use the blue light setting with the percussive setting, as it can spread the bacteria around your skin.

While some might prefer an LED face mask, what's nice about this tool is that you can spot-treat the areas where you need the light most. The wavelength strength is slightly higher than other handheld LED light devices, like the Foreo UFO—however if you're looking to target different concerns, then the Foreo competitor does come with more light options.

Microcurrent

I'm a big fan of microcurrent technology after incorporating it into my skincare routine a couple of years ago, so I was really excited to try this setting—and boy did it deliver.

I really appreciated the shape of microcurrent domes, as they were quite deep and narrow—rather than shallow and round like some other devices. This allowed for a really penetrating treatment that got deep into the facial muscles for an effective massage—and I definitely noticed the results. I also found that the shape of the device was a particular aid when using this attachment, as it allowed for a lot of control over both the direction and the pressure of the massage. You'll need some lubrication when using this setting—Therabody does sell a conductive gel, but you can just use your best hyaluronic acid serum for a multitasking treatment instead.

The only feature that I felt was lacking during this treatment, was some sort of vibration, as it's a feature I really enjoy when using the Foreo Bear microcurrent device. I also found that the Foreo offered a slightly quicker treatment, as the domes are a bit bigger—and it's more customizable, as it offers a lot more treatment options. However, the TheraFace is easier to use thanks to the body of the device.

How did the TheraFace Pro leave my skin?

I don't have a typical before and after for the TheraFace Pro, as most of these treatments I'd already been doing—just with different tools. However, after some weeks off facial massage before using this, I definitely found that it made an impact. It's like a sculpting treatment x10, which I really noticed in my skin after just a couple of weeks of use—my skin was firmer and noticeably more toned. I've also noticed a marked difference in the tension in my face—the device's effects have even allowed me to go weeks now and then without using any massage or percussive treatment at all.

The same goes for the microcurrent technology—it left my skin really lovely and toned and helped reduce inflammation in my cheeks and on the sides of my nose, which are problem areas for me.

I think that the microcurrent technology along with the exfoliating I've been doing with the cleansing attachment have both contributed to brightness in my complexion, however, my affinity for my best vitamin C serums (namely the SkinCeuticals CE Ferulic) and best retinol serums have definitely had a hand in that too.

As for the LED light therapy, I can't really speak to its results, as I'm fortunate enough not to have to tackle wrinkles (yet) or acne. However, I'll continue to test out the red and infrared settings and report back if I experience any visible results.

TheraFace Pro—the My Imperfect Life verdict

I whole-heartedly think that this is a device worth buying—however it really does depend on what your skin type and concerns are and what you're looking for in a device.

If you're looking to relieve tension in the face, this is 100% it. It is an investment, but I would say that the strides that I've experienced in tension relief are really worth it for me personally. And if you're looking to foray into the world of skincare tech or have been tempted by a cleansing brush, toning device and light therapy device, then this is a worthy and (just about) money-saving all-in-one.

But if it's just a cleansing brush or LED light therapy device that you're looking for, then I may recommend competitors over this—simply because the cost feels like a bit of a waste when there are more reasonable competitors that do the same job. When it comes to cleansing brushes, the PMD Clean is a LOT lighter, so definitely easier to use, and you can customize your treatment with the Foreo Luna—plus this device isn't waterproof which makes it a bit tricky when cleansing, as you have to be super careful. For the light therapy aspect, there are a lot of tools out there that do a similar job—and as they're single-purpose they're more affordable. I also like that Foreo's UFO is super customizable and comes with a whole spectrum of colors and really impactful temperature settings—or an LED mask could make a good alternative if you're looking for an all-over treatment.

However, if you want a does-it-all tool and aren't targetting any of the above concerns in particular, then this is a great device to keep up your overall facial health. And all of the above considered, I still use my TheraFace Pro more than I do any of my other skincare gadgets.

As someone who's never used an aluminum-free deodorant before, I tried the new, refillable Glossier deodorant and here's what I thought...

While we all patiently await Glossier coming to Sephora, the brand—synonymous with its skin-first ethos and millennial pink packaging—hasn't been sleeping on the new product launches. Along with the return of Wild Fig and the new Balm Dot Com formulas, Glossier just released a new, refillable deodorant in three dreamy scents—including their signature "Glossier You" perfume (which is widely regarded as one of the best perfumes for women as well as one of the best long-lasting perfumes you can wear).

The odor-wicking stick is made without aluminum, baking soda, exfoliating acids, or water—aka all the ingredients that can disrupt your natural PH levels causing that *stink* and irritation to your underarms.

So as someone whose favorite compliment to receive is about how good I smell and as an aluminum-free deo virgin, I thought my pits would be the perfect test subject for this latest addition to the Glossier body range.

Here's my review of the Glossier deodorant in scent Orange Blossom Neroli...

A beauty writer's honest review of the Glossier deodorant

Now, before I fully jump into the review, allow me to fill you in on my usual antiperspirant preferences and requirements—plus how I put the Glossier deo through its paces...

My skin and sweat (lol)

So, I have quite sensitive skin, but despite this, I've always used antiperspirant sprays from all the usual suspects: Sure, Nivea and Dove (even under a few dire circumstances, Lynx and Sure Men). Name a "48 hours protection" promising spray and I've tried it. But alas, thanks to all those 20-something hormones, I still sweat through the day—worse still I'm also an anxious perspirer, so I take my deo and perfume game very seriously.

As you can imagine, I was therefore very skeptical about this aluminum-free Glossier deodorant—especially after reading the (very aesthetic) packaging to discover that if you're swapping straight from an aluminum spray to this one, things might get worse before they get better. Or as Glossier eloquently put: "If you’ve been using deodorants with aluminum, it may take up to four weeks for your armpits to adjust to a formula without aluminum and as a result, you may experience excess sweating temporarily."

Now, my experience won't be the same as everyone's—but I can confirm I was pleasantly surprised by how my armpits responded to the swap...

What's in the Glossier Deodorant

As mentioned, the Glossier deodorant is an aluminum and baking soda-free deodorant formulated with superfruit elderberry extract and coconut oil, which both work to keep you underarm nourished while helping to reduce odors. It also contains potato starch to absorb moisture and magnesium hydroxide—a pH-adjuster and absorbent that helps to reduce sweat stains. It's also dermatologist-tested and cruelty-free

The scent I tested is the Orange Blossom Neroli which features fresh and fruity perfume notes of pear, mandarin and cypress.

How did I test the Glossier deodorant?

So, what rigorous testing did I put this deodorant through, you ask? Well, I've worn it every day for four weeks, where it's endured sweaty gym visits, a panicked jog to the train station, several walks to the shops, and even a few nights of sleep where I've reapplied before bed, post-shower.

Now, without further ado, onto my review...

My Glossier Deodorant experience

Going into this, I really didn't have high hopes for this deodorant nor did I think it would be a game-changer for me—but boy was I wrong.

This deodorant is a joy to use. I don't know if I'm just totally hypnotized by the cozy fresh scent of the Orange Blossom Neroli refill but I don't really have a bad word to say about it.

I've used it every day for over three weeks now and didn't find that—as a newbie to aluminum-free deodorant—it made me any sweatier. In fact, I've found that my underarms stayed fresh all day and throughout the day I even get a whiff of that dreamy neroli aroma. 

I did, however, find that I needed to reapply before heading to the gym in the evening—but that's no different from any other deodorant I've used before. It also doesn't necessarily stop you from sweating, so if you're looking for something that will prevent any excess sweat, this might not be the one for you. That being said, I found that any perspiration just smelt like the deodorant and personally, I've never found a spray or roll-on that's prevented any sweat at all. For me, it's all about freshness and smell—which this stick definitely delivered on.

• View at Glossier in the US
• View at Glossier in the UK

T-shirt stain-wise, I didn't notice anything major—though during the first week of wearing this deodorant, I did find that one of my white tees suffered slightly—but no permanent damage was done! So if you're transitioning from aluminum to aluminum-free deodorants, I'd recommend steering clear of your favorite white tees for the first few weeks.

So, my overall verdict? I'm obsessed with it. I love the smell— it makes me feel so cozy, fresh and weirdly comforted every time I apply it. If Glossier makes this scent into an actual perfume, I'll be all over it. I've also found that my underarms feel softer and I've experienced no irritation.

I'm pleased to say that this deodorant is now a permanent addition to my morning beauty routine and it's safe to say, I'll be trying ALL the scents!

When it comes to celebrity beauty lines, one in particular has TikTok weak at the knees—Selena Gomez's Rare Beauty has reached cult status, so I, of course, couldn't resist putting her sell-out Rare Beauty Positive Light Liquid Luminizer to the test. Here are my honest thoughts on the viral Rare Beauty Liquid Luminizer as a lover of dewy, glass-like skin.

As far as the 2023 beauty trends go, we're all still enamored with achieving natural-looking, dewy skin—hence the popularity of trends like the Clean Girl aesthetic and 'cloud skin', which encompass glowing, natural no-makeup-makeup. From orb highlighting to 'glazed' foundation looks, it's safe to say our love for the glow truly knows no bounds and it's even started creeping into our manicure preferences thanks to the likes of Hailey Bieber's glazed donut nails.

Most of the products that have reached viral status on TikTok are heralded as the ultimate glow givers—like the Drunk Elephant bronzing drops, the e.l.f Halo Glow Filter, and of course, the Rare Liquid Highlighter.

So, as someone who is forever chasing the radiant skin look, I gave one of Selena Gomez's own makeup must-haves a try...

A beauty writer's honest review on the Rare Beauty Highlighter Positive Light Liquid Luminizer

So, before I jump into my review of these bottled dew drops, let me first debrief you on my skin texture, tone, and makeup preferences, so you can get a feel for how this highlighter might work for you.

My skin and makeup preferences

I have pale, cool-toned skin—so when it comes to my highlighters, I tend to opt for pearly, opalescent, and champagne tones as these seem to work best with my skin and don't leave a cast in certain lightenings. Texture-wise, I have combined skin, though it's more on the dry side near my eyes and nose. Like most people, my skin gets oilier as the day goes on, so I look for makeup products that still look pretty—even when my skin gets slightly greasier. 

When it comes to my makeup routine, I keep things pretty simple. I apply a glow filter (usually Charlotte Tilbury's Flawless Filter), followed by a non-comedogenic foundation—to be specific, our in-house beauty editor's number one rec, the Armani Luminous Silk foundation—before then adding concealer where I need it and powder. Then comes the mascara and brow gel before I finish off with blush and highlighter.

For me, blush and highlighter are my favorite products. I must confess the sunkissed blush trend still has me in a chokehold, so I am very generous with my blush—and as for my highlight, I prefer cream and liquid formulas.

My previous rotation consisted of Charlotte Tilbury's Beauty Light wand in "Pillow Talk" and Glossier's Haloscope in "Moonstone". So, how does Rare Beauty's Positive Light Liquid Luminizer hold up?

How to apply the Rare Beauty liquid highlighter

How you apply the Rare highlighter (or any highlighter) is down to your personal preference really, but as a guideline, you want to aim for anywhere light would naturally hit. So your cheekbones, nose bridge and tip, your cupid's bow, and the inner corners of your eyes. You can also apply it to your brow bone and forehead. 

As for tools, you can use a highlighting brush or damp beauty blender—but personally, I think using your fingertips is the best way to achieve that glass-like gleam.

As a little goes a long way with Rare's liquid highlighter, I'd recommend applying a small amount to the back of your hand first, rather than using the doe-foot straight onto your face.

Rare Beauty highlighter formula

I'll first preface my Rare Beauty highlighter review by saying that this highlighter is really pretty. I tested out the Rare Beauty highlighter "Enlighten" shade, which is a pearly, champagne shade and seems to sell out every five seconds. Rare is also very generous with the product size—much like the viral liquid blush, a little goes a long way and for just $25 (£26), you get a bottle that will last you for months.

Formula-wise it's also a good product—it's a cruelty-free makeup product, vegan, paraben-free, and suitable for sensitive skin. Plus, it's got some skin-loving ingredients, including botanicals like lotus, gardenia, and white water lily, which help to soothe and nourish your skin, for that lit-from-within effect.

Now, onto whether I think it's worth it hype...

Rare Beauty highlighter experience

I really, really wanted to like it. I've been looking for a good liquid highlighter for some time now, but I'm afraid to say this luminizer just isn't it for me. Now, with every product review/recommendation—much like we're seeing with the TikTok de-influencing trend—this is just my experience. Perhaps it just didn't agree with my skin type or product combos and would work completely differently for others...

That being said, I expected big things and was left feeling a bit disappointed. I applied it to the tip of my nose and nose bridge, along with my cheekbones and cupid's bow and while the initial shimmer was pretty, it didn't give me the radiance I was expecting. 

Looking at myself in the mirror, in natural lighting, I was craning my head up and down trying to photograph its dewy effect to not much avail. I also tried a few different applications, with a beauty blender, a brush, and my finger—but in every instance, I found the shimmer-pay off a little underwhelming.

Here's how the highlighter looks on my skin in natural lighting (please ignore my giant chin zit, thank you):

And here's the highlighter looks with flash:

Rare Beauty highlighter results

It's described on Rare's site as a "dewy, buildable glow" and while it's definitely initially dewy, it did not seem to last and I found it difficult to apply. Don't get me wrong—there was a pretty gleam there, but after a while, it seemed to melt away.

As mentioned, I tried lots of different application methods, but for me, I found the formula slightly unforgiving. It also committed the ultimate highlight sin...it disrupted my blush underneath. Rather than finding a complimenting gleam atop my rosy cheeks after finishing my full face, I found that a portion of my blush had been wiped off completely, leaving a pale streak—even though I had applied the highlighter lightly with my finger. A big no-no for me.

Through my testing, I found the best way to apply it was with my ring finger, after popping the product on the back of my hand first. This ensured I wasn't applying too much and did leave me with a pretty, subtle shimmer.

My verdict on the Rare Beauty Positive Light Liquid Luminizer

So, would I recommend this Rare liquid highlighter? I think if you love a glittery glow, this highlighter would work for you—it's definitely shimmery. However, if you prefer a more glassy look that will last all day and not budge, you might want to give this one a miss.

If you're a makeup beginner, you may also find this product slightly frustrating, as applying too much can prove disastrous for your underlying base.

It's by no means a bad highlighter, it does the job but it just didn't wow me. And while the shade is really pretty and can definitely be mixed with your blush and foundations for an all-around glow—I sadly won't be retiring my Glossier Haloscope anytime soon. Sorry, Selena!

If you're an avid TikTok scroller or Selena Gomez fan, you'll have no doubt seen her Rare Beauty makeup products all over your For You page—particularly her Soft Pinch Blush, which is now top of the list of viral TikTok products. But with holy grail makeup status also comes selling-out, which the Rare blushes seem to do on the daily. So, to save you months of waiting for your go-to shade to be restocked, I've tried the internet's favorite Rare Beauty blush dupes—the Revolution Blush Bombs—and I have some thoughts...

No 'clean girl's makeup bag is complete without at least one of Selena's Soft Pinch blushes. They are renowned for being seriously pigmented (which many beauty lovers found out the hard way) and giving the ultimate, naturally flushed look. In fact, it's fair to say that Rare's liquid blush played a major role in the popularity of the sun-kissed blush trend itself.

Alas though, like with the best eyeshadow palettes and best eyeliners, often when great products hit the market, they become like liquid gold and are very hard to get your hands on. Case and point—pretty much every shade of the Rare blushes.

But while TikTok is solely responsible for selling out all the best products, the app does often repay us with some bargain dupers—like the e.l.f halo glow filter for example—and now the Revolution Blush Bombs dubbed the ultimate Rare blush swaps.

So, as a blush lover myself, who has been trying to get my hands on the Soft Pinch Blush for months (it's a touchy subject)—I've tested out the Revolution Blush Bombs in four shades, to see if they're really worth the hype!

My verdict on the Revolution's Blush Bombs

As a lover of natural-looking makeup—like Hailey Bieber's 'glazed' foundation look, the only cheek product I really use, after my foundation, concealer and powder, is blush. It is by far my favorite makeup product and step in my makeup routine. 

This does mean though, that when it comes to blush, I don't mess around and am very particular about how I like my blush to look and feel. So, be assured, I've put these Blush Bombs through their paces...

My skin tone and texture

When it comes to sussing out new makeup products, especially when it comes to cream or liquid ones—knowing what they look like on different skin textures/tones can be helpful!

I have very pale and cool-toned skin—I am number one in pretty much every foundation shade. I am also lucky to have quite clear skin around my cheek area, I do not have much texture—except for some visible pores and some redness.

I do however have combination skin that can get quite oily in the T-zone area, while also being dry around my nose and also on my cheeks—which can be accentuated under some cream products.

How I applied the Revolution Blush bombs

I tend to go for the classic cheek and nose blush look, so I blend my blush from the center of my cheeks up and out to my temples—and then apply it over the bridge of my nose. You can also do the tip if you like that crying-girl or cold-girl makeup aesthetic.

For these liquid blushes, I used my normal placement—putting a dot on my cheeks and nose bridge—and then blended them out with a beauty blender, for a diffused and dewy look. You can also use a fluffy brush or your fingers—though I found this made them look patchy.

Which Revolution Blush Bombs are dupes for Rare Beauty?

While the Soft Pinch liquid blush is available 11 shades, Revolution offers just five, though they appear to be very similar to the bestselling Rare Blush colors; Happy, Joy, Grace, Love and Grateful.

I have tested out shades Dolly Rose, which is supposedly a dupe for 'Happy'—which is a cold-toned pink, Glam Orange, an orangey hue similar to 'Love.' As well as Rose Lust (a mauve tone, close to Grace)  and Peach Filter—a peachy, light orange shade—an alternative to 'Grateful.'

So, now they've we've discussed my skin type, the shade range and how to apply the blush, let's dive into my overall thoughts on the Revolution Blush Bombs...

• View at Boots in the UK (UK only)

Are the Revolution Blush Bombs a good swap for Rare Beauty?

The Rare Beauty blushes are known to pack quite a punch, and pigment wise and the same can certainly be said for the Revolution Blush Bombs—however, they're not quite up there with Rare's. Personally, I don't think the shades are as vibrant and they look sheerer on the skin.

That being said, they are buildable and slightly more forgiving if you apply too much—but even still, too much of these Blush Bombs can leave you looking like you are either boiling hot, or very embarrassed.

I started off by testing the shade Dolly Rose as I've been trying to snag Rare's 'Happy' shade for some time and this one appeared to be a good alternative. I applied it with the doe-foot (which sometimes means you apply too much) and blended it with my beauty blender, starting with a dot on each cheek and one on my nose bridge.

This shade I think most suited my skin tone and I really liked the natural flush it gave my cheeks. Its formula reminded me a bit of the Glossier Cloud Paints but the packaging is definitely not as cute (sorry Revolution.)  They are formulated with vitamin E though, which gives them a dewy and hydrating finish.

While it started off strong for this shade, sadly the color did not last and  I found just a few hours after application it was barely visible.

I then tried one of the darker, more mauve shade, hoping this would have more staying power and since the purple blush trend is so popular, I was curious to see how it would look on my skin tone.

While it initially looked a bit scary on my skin, I was pleasantly surprised to see how easily this one blended out. It left me with a very pretty, purply flush—which was more buildable than I expected.

The two orangey tones were another story though, these I found very pigmented and way too bright for my skin. After just one dot, the pay off looked very extreme and did not blend out as well as the others. They also seemed to cling to all my dry patches and hairline.

Overall, I would say that for just £6, these are definitely worth trying out, especially if you want to experiment with which shade of blush works for you, before investing in a more pricey brand. 

The main issue for me was blending them, after just one blob, they would saturate my whole cheek. Though, if you're someone with experience with liquid blushes, you'll also likely get on better with these than I did. 

After some practice, I did find that I could make these blushes look more natural and they really do have a pretty dewy finish—though they don't seem to have the same staying power as the Rare Beauty blushes.

The CurrentBody LED mask is slowly becoming a staple in the skincare routines of the beauty world's savviest—from beauty editors to expert facialists, it seems everyone is curious about or already full-on in love with the clever gadget.

It even sports some major celeb approval already, with the likes of Kourtney Kardashian, Renée Zellweger, Suki Waterhouse and Kaley Cuoco fans of the device—not to mention everyone's favorite overseas fashionista Emily Cooper, who was spotted wearing the mask in the first episode of Emily in Paris season three.

So what's so special about the increasingly popular mask, how does it differ from other forms of LED light therapy and is it worth investment? Our in-house beauty editor Aleesha Badkar tried out the gadget and here's her honest opinion...

• View at CurrentBody for $380/£279

Firstly, what does the CurrentBody LED mask do?

CurrentBody claims that regular use of the mask can see wrinkles reduced in the face by up to 35% in four weeks.

The mask is also said to improve firmness in the skin by stimulating collagen production and leave skin brighter by encouraging cell renewal. The brand also claims that the mask improves skin tone and texture.

Is the CurrentBody LED mask good for acne?

While the near-infrared and red light wavelengths emitted from the mask can help to  soothe skin and reduce inflammation—in turn minimizing the appearance of acne, soothing irritation and promoting healing—it likely won't help to prevent acne.

This is because experts recommend using blue light therapy in order to target acne as it is known to have anti-bacterial properties, which helps to prevent acne buildup on the skin. Blue light therapy also penetrates the skin's surface more deeply than red light therapy, in order to work towards tackling whatever might be causing the acne under the surface.

CurrentBody Skin LED Light Therapy mask review

Our beauty editor put the famous Emily in Paris LED face mask to the test to see if it is really worth the investment...

How do you use the CurrentBody LED Light Therapy mask?

I'm always a bit wary when trying out new skincare gadgets—pore cleansing tools, IPL hair removal devices, even my favorite PMD facial cleansing brush—but the CurrentBody LED mask put all of my concerns about intimidating hardware, tricky setup and complicated initial use to rest as soon as I opened it.

The very un-intimidating gadget comes with a USB port that plugs into the simple controller, a detachable and adjustable head strap, storage bag and even protective eye goggles—all of which is presented in such an uncomplicated format that I almost didn't need to crack open the user guide (obvs I did though—safety first and everything).

Setup is quick and straightforward and then it's a case of carrying out a sensitivity test before going in for a treatment. You simply place the mask over your (cleansed) face and tighten the strap around your head—which thanks to the soft silicone material is really easy and comfortable to do. One click to turn on the mask and then 10 minutes later (when the device handily turns itself off) you're done with your treatment.

How often should you use the CurrentBody LED face mask?

CurrentBody recommends using the mask five times a week for 10 minutes each time for the best results. Obviously, you don't have to use it as often as this if you'd prefer less facetime, but definitely don't go over the recommended treatment time.

So far, I've used it for a few days in a row and not had any discomfort or irritation. It's actually a time of day I've found myself looking forward to, as it's a little 10 minute break from the world of screens, errands and life admin where I can just tune out. I like to listen to a sound bath for some extra relaxation, but you could opt for meditation, music, podcasts, an audiobook or even just take the time for a bit of silence!

Does the CurrentBody LED mask work?

For me, yes it definitely does. I've only used the mask a handful of times so far, but I'm loving it already. After just a couple of uses I could already see a difference in my skin, with a natural glow to my skin each morning—it's the kind of fresh-faced glow that you would usually only see after an intense facial.

I also found that following the treatment with the brand's CurrentBody Skin Hydrogel Face Mask (apply AFTER using the mask, not before or during), boosted the results, as the intense rehydration left skin quenched and fresh—plus I'm a sucker for anything hydrating. However, this effect can be easily replicated with your best hyaluronic acid serum.

If you're looking for an extra brightening effect you could also follow your hydrating step with your best vitamin C serum or if looking for more anti-ageing benefits, one of our best retinol serums would work nicely. Top it all off with your best face moisturizer (or best moisturizer for dry skin if you want something extra nourishing and you're good to go).

As for the anti-ageing effects of the mask, I'm lucky enough to not have had much experience with fine lines and wrinkles as of yet, so that's not an area I can say I've seen results. However, I do have areas of pigmentation on my skin, so with continued use this may be something I can speak to.

How does it differ from other LED light therapy masks?

What really sets the CurrentBody LED Light Therapy mask apart from other similar products, is that it is made of soft, silicone material, rather than a hard plastic shell.

CurrentBody LED mask vs Dr Dennis Gross DRx SpectraLite FaceWare Pro

There are a few major differences between the CurrentBody LED Light Therapy mask and the Dr Dennis Gross DRx SpectraLite FaceWare Pro. The first and most obvious is the price. While the CurrentBody retails at $380/£279, the Dr Dennis Gross offering is relatively pricier at $435/£430. 

However, the higher price of the Dr Dennis Gross mask comes with alternative treatments, as there are three treatment options, one of which is blue light therapy. The addition of a blue light therapy option makes this option a better choice for anyone looking to tackle and prevent acne through LED light therapy.

But while the CurrentBody mask comes with a soft flexible body that can adapt to the shape of the face ensuring full coverage, the Dr Dennis Gross is made from a hard shell so—while I've not actually tried the device myself—I imagine that it may be less comfortable to wear.

CurrentBody LED mask vs Omnilux Contour Anti-Aging LED Light Therapy mask

While again it's not one that I've tried, the Omnilux Contour Anti-Aging LED Light Therapy does actually seem pretty similar to the CurrentBody LED mask. It has a similar price at $395/£299, comes with a soft flexible casing meant to contour to your face (hence the name, I imagine) and uses both red and near-infrared wavelengths during treatments.

• Omnilux Contour Anti-Ageing LED Light Therapy Mask

My Imperfect Life's verdict on the CurrentBody Skin LED Light Therapy Mask

So should you buy the CurrentBody Skin LED Light Therapy Mask? If you don't mind the investment and are looking for a healthy natural glow to the skin, I would say 100% yes.

As a beauty editor, I've used a whole number of different products and gadgets for glowy skin, and while I do have a set of favorites that do the job admirably (like the Therabody Theraface Pro, which I think is my favorite of the lot), this mask leaves me with that fresh facial look that I've seldom experienced from other products.

Of course, topical products help to quench and leave a dewy finish and I have used other gadgets that have plumped my skin nicely, but this gives a fully natural glow that I can notice straightaway when I wake up in the morning. As for its anti-ageing benefits, I've not got enough experience with fine lines and wrinkles to be able to speak much to that aspect of it yet, but with the results I've already seen I'm hoping continued use of the mask can help me to live out my JLo aspiration when I get to my 50s—well when it comes to my skin anyway...

• View at CurrentBody for $380/£279

Equal parts home decor and workout tool? The Lululemon MIRROR surely sounds like a win-win, but our fitness writer Rebecca Fontana put the gym tech to the test to see if it actually proves to be a worthwhile addition to a normal exercise routine. 

You might be wondering how the Lululemon MIRROR works exactly. The 53-by-21-inch smart mirror is essentially a screen that projects a workout straight from your phone, meaning you can follow the exercise and observe your own form while performing it. Practically, it can be either wall-mounted or freestanding, and it's operated via a corresponding app (meaning the mirror isn't a touchscreen—yay, no fingerprints!)

Though technically there aren't any additional accessories required to use the Lululemon MIRROR, you can easily add some of the best resistance bands or dumbbells for women, or one of the best yoga mats if you're doing a specific kind of class. But is the smart mirror the right buy for you and your fitness routine? We've dissected everything from the value-for-money of the item to the classes available and the ability to customize this popular Lululemon offering, to help you decide.

Shop the Lululemon MIRROR

Lululemon MIRROR: a tried-and-tested review

How to use the Lululemon mirror

The Lululemon MIRROR is a subscription-based workout tool, which shifts the focus from the fitness instructor to your own image. It has customizable fitness trackers (including calories burned, time remaining, and heart rate) appearing as faint holograms on the screen, to let you keep track of your progress but also so as not to divert your attention. The tool was created by Brynn Putnam of Refine Method, who as a former ballerina knows the value of working out in front of a mirror to optimize form and technique.

The corresponding app is available for both iOS and Android, and supplies thousands of classes to choose from ranging in duration from five minutes to 60 minutes, and in 50-plus genres, from cardio to online Pilates classes. It's accessible on a mobile phone, tablet, or smart TV too, depending on what you have to hand.

You can personalize your experience, too—you can select your favorite instructors, class length, and more. Or, you can just get started with a pre-selected program of classes for the week if you'd rather not think about it. If you want more human interaction in your workouts too, there are daily live classes with the option for you to share your screen and get IRL shoutouts from the instructor.

Class offerings on the Lululemon MIRROR

If you're into virtual live classes, the Lululemon MIRROR is only going to get better with time for you. Its daily selection of live classes is archived each day, meaning that the library is constantly growing, so you'll never run out of workouts.

The instructors are also real people, not robots, who offer comments on your form and technique throughout the classes (if you want!) They also say hi to you, which is quite nice if you work out alone, and tend to WFH a lot too! The live class schedule is updated daily, so you can pick a time to join throughout the entire day. The personal training classes take it a step further too, offering one-on-one instruction and guidance, though you will have to pay extra for these.

Within class categories such as Dance, you can break it down even further into lessons on Hip-hop, Latin, Ballet, or Dance Cardio. If you hate working out alone, there are partner classes targeted toward more than one participant, or you could view your virtual classmates who are also sharing their videos. There's even a competition mode, with points to be earned for hitting your personalized targets. There are also class options ranging from Prenatal to Postnatal to Family Fun, where the instructor suggests moves for all ages to follow.

Customization of the Lululemon MIRROR

The options for customization include several standouts, such as the ability to select a limitation or injury or to filter classes that may target a specific body part. Alternatively, you can select precisely what you want to do in a yoga class, whether it's arm balances or twists, which we really liked as it allowed us, during testing, to match the workout to our exact mood. Or, if you don't want to spend forever scrolling through filters, just select the beginner, intermediate, or advanced options, and the Lululemon MIRROR will find your ideal class for you. Perfect for those of us who work out early in the morning and don't want to make too many decisions! (The early morning is one of the best times to do yoga, after all...)

The customization continues with the display, as well, with options for precisely what you want to show up on the MIRROR while you're working out. Want to shrink the size of your instructor, change the music station, or get rid of the calorie counter? It's all doable!

A bonus of the app is the ability to access the MIRROR's class library remotely. If you're traveling or even outdoors, you can still use your phone or tablet to play the class videos directly in the app. You can also pair it with your Apple Watch, heart-rate monitor, and Bluetooth speakers or headphones—any number of the best activewear accessories work with the Lululemon MIRROR.

Is the Lululemon MIRROR worth the price?

The Lululemon MIRROR currently costs $995 up-front in the US (it's sadly not yet available to buy in the UK), with a 30-day risk-free trial. It comes with free wall mounting at the time of delivery, and if you find that it's not the fitness tool for you, the Lululemon team will even have it picked up for free as well as issue a full refund. 

As far as fancy fitness items go, we'd say the initial price isn't too hefty, though it is expensive if you're only used to paying for a few cheaper workout accessories here or there. 

However, it's important to note that the purchase of the MIRROR itself does not include any classes without an app subscription. The app is $39 a month (yes, on top of the initial cost of the mirror itself), which includes separate profiles for up to six household members, so the more people you have using the Lululemon MIRROR, the better bargain it becomes. The additional personal training session also starts at an extra $40, if you want to directly interact with the instructors.

Overall, we'd say that the Lululemon MIRROR is well worth the price if you can afford it. It's undeniably pricey though, especially with the extra costs, so if you can't justify it in your budget, know that you can still enjoy a brilliant workout routine without it.

The Lovense Nora is hands-down the best app-controlled vibrator our sex-toy reviewer personally tried and tested—want to know why? We've got you covered.

The Lovense Nora is a rabbit-style vibrator made of high-quality, body-safe silicone (and a plastic handle) with a longer arm topped with a rotating head to brush against your G-spot, and a powerful vibrating smaller arm to stimulate your clitoris. 

"App- or remote-controlled vibrators can be used for couples that are miles apart, whereby one partner inserts the toy while the other controls it via an app wherever they are," says Annabelle Knight, a sex and relationships expert at Lovehoney, and the Lovense Nora fits right in this category. It can be controlled by the user with buttons on the handle, or by someone else remotely via the Lovense Remote app. Whichever way you do it, an incredible orgasm is guaranteed!

What’s more, the Lovense Nora can be synced up with the male masturbator Max 2—when you move your vibrator, your partner’s toy reacts, making the experience all the more interactive. With all of this going for it, it's no wonder it hands down made our list of the best app-controlled vibrators. Okay, maybe not "hands down," since it isn’t a hands-free vibrator, but you get the idea...

One of the best-reviewed sex toys on the market, you can buy the Lovense Nora on Amazon but it’s also available directly from the brand's own website. (The site often has sex toys deals, however, so keep an eye out!)

Lovense Nora review: Everything you need to know

How we tested the Lovense Nora vibrator:

There are a few things to consider when it comes to buying a rabbit vibrator like the Lovense Nora, and these are all things to bear in mind, whether it's your first or your 21st sex toy purchase.

Be sure to think about:

• Vibrator strength
• Vibrator form
• Available vibration patterns
• App connection
• User-friendliness
• Price point

The form of the Lovense Nora

The form of the Lovense Nora plays a large part in its success. As with all rabbit-style types of vibrators, it provides dual internal and clitoral stimulation, but there are a few extra features that make it so incredibly orgasm-inducing. 

The smaller arm, for instance, is flexible, slightly curved and, happily, sits right on your clitoris, though it’s still wide enough that its vibrations pulsate all around that area. The longer arm is tipped with a rotating head that brushes perfectly against the G-spot as it spins. If vibrations are all you’ve ever needed to orgasm, you might not think you require this function—but trust us, once you’ve tried it, you won’t want to masturbate without it. 

Lovense has also paid close attention to the shaft itself. While you don’t need to thrust this toy to get good sensations, if that’s what you’re into, the waved shape of the longer arm feels great when moving in and out. 

There are two buttons on the toy's handle: one controls the vibration power and patterns of the clitoral arm, while the other controls the direction and speed of the rotating head. Although these are easy to use, we found that—unless you’re blessed with rather long arms—you have to reach down for them. We’d suggest using the app to change the settings during play, even if on your own. 

Since you’re inserting this sex toy inside your vagina, it’s important to pay attention to the material it’s made from. Nora’s main shaft and clitoral arm are high-quality silicone, rendering them silky smooth yet durable, while the handle is medical grade ABS plastic.

Power source of the Lovense Nora

There’s nothing more frustrating than the batteries in your vibrator running out mid-session (especially when you don’t have any replacements to hand and end up “blue-balling” yourself).

Luckily, the Lovense Nora comes with a USB charger. It’s easy to use—just plug the cable into any USB port and attach the other end to the base of the vibrator’s plastic handle via two magnetic dots. It takes around 2.5 hours for the Nora to charge fully and it can last for four hours of continuous use (if you can). You’ll know it’s charging when the red light turns on, and that it’s finished when the light clicks off. 

Functions of the Lovense Nora

There’s no chance you won’t get enough vibration to get off with Nora. The vibrating arm has seven settings—low, medium, high, pulse, wave, fireworks and earthquake—and they’re all powerful, even "low."

The rotating head also has three settings—slow, medium and fast—which you can cycle through with the lower button on the plastic arm. Holding this button down for three seconds will rotate the head in the opposite direction. We’ve discovered we’re all about that anti-clockwise motion. (TMI?)

Maintenance of the Lovense Nora

To ensure your vibrator lasts well, make sure to charge it at least every six months and clean it regularly. We were pleased to find that the Lovense Nora is waterproof, so it’s easy to clean. Use warm water and mild soap or a specialty sex toy cleaner to wash it before and after each use.

When you’re done, don’t just throw it in your sock draw (we promise we’ve only done this once)—dry it off and store it away carefully in a storage bag or the box it came in. 

It’s also best to make sure the rotating head function is turned off before inserting it into your vagina as there’s a chance it will break as you try to slide it in (though lube helps. Lube always helps).

App capabilities of the Lovense Nora

You can connect your Nora vibrator to the Lovense Remote app using Bluetooth technology. It’s super simple, just like pairing Bluetooth headphones to your phone. Once you’ve done this, there are two options for remote controls: a traditional slider panel or a tap-and-slide control board, which we found more intuitive. Both of these give the option to play with the vibrations and the rotating head separately. 

The app is also full of pre-programmed patterns, some created by Lovense and endless others created by anonymous users. If you’re feeling creative, you can even make your own, tailor-made to what you think your nethers might enjoy. 

Of course, using the app while masturbating solo is useful, but it’s most advantageous when used by a partner to control your vibe remotely. Get them to download the app and send them an invite. We enjoyed sexting using the chat option as foreplay, then entering video call mode once things really heated up. That way, your partner can see the effects of his labor and you can easily make requests too—take note, it's one of the best long-distance relationship tips you'll ever hear.

If your partner has a penis and wants to get even more involved, they can purchase Lovense’s male masturbator Max 2. It may look like they’ve put their privates in some kind of futuristic time capsule, but if you can get past that, it’s pretty cool. When you sync up the two devices, they interact—so when you move your toy, theirs reacts. 

The Bluetooth connection can sometimes be a frustrating problem with app-controlled vibrators, but we’re happy to report that we didn’t have any issues when using Nora and the Lovense Remote app. 

Should you buy the Lovense Nora? 

In a word: yes. Even disregarding its teledildonic prowess, the Lovense Nora is a bloody good vibrator. Its only downsides are that the shaft itself doesn’t receive much vibration (though it doesn’t really need it) and that it’s a bit noisy on the higher settings. Most vibrators, however, make some noise and, since this isn’t a wearable device, we don’t see it as a huge problem. 

Other than that, it’s great. The rabbit shape is well-designed, while the form and power of the vibrating arm feel fantastic. Turn on the rotating head and the experience gets noticeably more intense. 

Then add to that the fact that you can control it all through the app. This is handy for solo play and great for partner play—giving your Zoom date, partner or long-distance lover control over your pleasure adds a whole extra level of sexiness to masturbating (it's also a spicy addition to your stay-at-home date ideas). Plus, if you go so far as to pair it with the Max 2, it’s basically the closest to actual sex you can have while a million miles away from your partner (and you can see it in action in this viral video). 

While Nora’s non-discounted price is fairly high, it’s not dissimilar to what you’d pay for other similar products on the market. Also, can you really put a price on a device that will provide you with an infinite number of phenomenal orgasms with no hassle? If you're still debating whether to get the Nora or opt for another app-controlled vibrator, we also compared it to another favorite in our Lovense Nora vs Vibease Esthesia review.

We couldn’t recommend the Lovense Nora vibrator enough. It’ll leave your head spinning as fast as its own.  

If working from home has become more painful than productive, our home writer's tried-and-tested Ikea Langfjall chair review will make you want to invest in a new office chair to save you from aches and pains.

After scouring the stores for the very best desk chairs, the Langfjall model grabbed our attention, not only for its attractive appearance and amazing price point but also for the range of functional features geared towards making the working day that much more comfortable. 

Lumbar support and a tilt mechanism so you can adjust the back are the main points that stood out, as you don’t often get those features with a more affordable design. You can also adjust the height, which puts it up there with some of the more pricey chairs on offer.   

Interested? Here's why we feel the Ikea Langfjall chair is a purchase well worth making and worthy of a spot in your home office...

Langfjall chair review: everything you need to know

1. Price of the Ikea Langfjall chair

At $239 (£150) without armrests and $269 (£179) with, the Langfjall chair isn’t the cheapest option out there, but neither is it going to put too much of a strain on the purse strings. You may want to invest in a more expensive ergonomic desk chair that’s focused purely on comfort, but if you’re looking for a design that is as stylish as it is comfortable, then we suggest giving this model a whirl for yourself. 

2. Design of the Ikea Langfjall chair

Design-wise, curves are in—from pill-box shape mirrors to round dining tables and softly sculpted sofas, we’ve seen this trend hit the interiors market in a big way recently. The undulating curves of the Langfjall chair pay tribute to that, with a rounded back and seat, and tapered arms that work beautifully to create a unique and stylish piece of furniture.

“The clean, slightly curved lines of LÅNGFJÄLL swivel chair are inspired by the human body, and accentuated by sewn details," says Ikea designer Eva Lilja Löwenhielm. "Our goal was to design a work chair that would fit into both office and living room— maybe even around the dining table. An ergonomic chair that’s as good to sit on as it is to look at, whether you’re working long hours or savoring a delicious dinner. We also made it easy to adjust and hid the mechanisms underneath the seat, all in the name of design.”

And don’t worry if you’re not falling for the Gunnared Beige color either, as this chair comes in a choice of three colorways—including dark grey and a sweet brown pink. We particularly like that the frame of the chair is in a powder-coated white, rather than the more traditional chrome, which gives it a fresh, modern look that’s likely to coordinate with a wide range of interior schemes. It will make it a lot easier to figure out how to decorate your home office.

On the practical side, the chair is a swivel design and has castors, as you’d expect from a good desk chair, meaning you can roll from desk to filing cabinet quickly and easily. There’s no chance of rolling off when you don’t want to though, due to the pressure-sensitive brake which keeps it in place when you stand up and sit down.

3. Comfort of the Ikea Langfjall chair

It can be said that you get what you pay for, but in this case, the comfort factor certainly outweighs the price. We like that you can tilt the back of the chair to adjust the position for your posture, albeit with an Allen key, which is stored neatly in a zipped compartment on the underside of the seat. You can also adjust the height of the chair pretty easily using a small hidden mechanism—so you can make sure your feet are flat on the floor when you’re seated, as is recommended. 

The cold-foam seat is a generous size, which is a bonus as some of the more compact chairs can be slightly on the narrow side, and it’s covered in a cotton mix fabric, so it’s a softer seat than some hardwood chair designs. Is it the absolute softest seat out there? No, but it’s also not going to have you itching to get up after an hour or two. 

4. Specifications of the Ikea Langfjall chair

Tested for: 110kg / 242lbs

Width: 68cm

Depth: 68cm

Max height: 92cm

Seat width: 53cm

Seat depth: 41cm

Min seat height: 43cm

Max seat height: 53cm

So, is the Ikea Langfjall chair worth the money?

So, do we recommend the Ikea Langfjall chair? Would we buy it ourselves? The answer is yes. It’s sleek, it’s stylish, it has built-in lumbar support and a tilt mechanism that many of the more standard chairs don’t have, and it’s affordable. Plus, you'll be happy to know you’ll get a 10-year guarantee from Ikea with this chair.

If you’re looking for more of an investment chair, and don’t mind splurging, you may prefer a more heavy-duty ergonomic desk chair with all the frills and science behind it. We found the Langfjall chair to be a great all-rounder for anyone wanting a little bit of everything: functionality, practicality and aesthetics. 

There is a lot of hype around this brand on TikTok, and one of the newer additions to the lineup, Olaplex No.4P Blonde Enhancer Toning Shampoo, is no exception. Our collective obsession with the best Olaplex products started out with the two initial in-salon treatments—the first is mixed into your hair color, the second is the equivalent of a professional-strength deep conditioning mask and is applied at the backwash. 

Both are scientifically proven to prevent the disulfide bonds in your hair from breaking during the coloring process by effectively ‘gluing’ them together. Olaplex also prevents any protein-destroying molecules from ravaging your strands by stepping in before they have the chance to wreak havoc. In short, they're perfect for those who frequently bleach or dye their hair.

Since the initial launch almost 10 years ago, the line now comprises a whopping 15 different products, including No.4D Dry Shampoo and even a lash serum. Their functions vary but all are powered, to some degree, by the same hero ingredient as the salon treatments. This patented molecule actually improves the hair's structure—rather than just papering over the cracks—a claim that most haircare brands simply cannot make. So how does the newbie, designed for highlighted, gray, or natural blonde hair, fare? Ahead, a beauty editor shares her in-depth review. 

A beauty editor's honest review of Olaplex No.4P Blonde Enhancer Toning Shampoo

Ingredients—What's in the Olaplex No.4P Purple Shampoo?

As for the newer shampoo, Olaplex No.4P Blonde Enhancer Toning Shampoo is a customizable purple formula with highly concentrated pigments—so you can dial up the toning depending on how brassy your hair is. To quickly recap color theory and how the best purple shampoos work, purple sits across from yellow on the color wheel, which is why this type of shampoo is so effective at neutralizing brassy tones. 

According to clinical trials, hair looks three times brighter after just one use of the Olaplex No.4P compared to other top purple shampoos in the market. But what really sets this particular purple shampoo apart from competitors is that it also contains Olaplex’s patented molecule, bis-aminopropyl diglycol dimaleate. Put simply, this high-tech molecule rebuilds the broken bonds in the hair that result from heat styling, chemical treatments, and (this is a key one in blonde hair) bleaching. You can read more about its benefits in our guide on using Olaplex as a treatment. 

Admittedly, the levels of this particular ingredient aren’t as high in this formula as in the salon-only treatments—but every little helps when you consider that the oxygen molecules in peroxide attach themselves to bonds and deplete the hair's protein, leaving it brittle. What's more, like all Olaplex products, No. 4P Shampoo is both vegan and cruelty-free, as well as containing no formaldehyde, sulfates, parabens, phosphates, or phthalates. 

Application—How to use the Olaplex No.4P Purple Shampoo

To achieve optimum results from this brightening shampoo, you should follow the instructions on the bottle. It’s also important to do a patch test inside your elbow or behind your ear and wait 48 hours to ensure there's no irritation.

• Step 1 (optional): Pre-wash with No.4 bond Maintenance Shampoo to remove product build-up.
• Step 2: Apply No. 4P Blonde Enhancer Toning Shampoo to wet hair. Lather and leave to process for one to three minutes. For more intense toning, leave on hair for up to five minutes. Use two to three times a week or as often as needed.
• Step 3: Rinse fully. Follow with No.5 Bond Maintenance Conditioner, or No.8 Bond Intense Moisture Mask for extra hydration.

The verdict—Is Olaplex No.4P Purple Shampoo worth it?

Like most bottle blondes, I’ve tried my fair share of purple shampoos to brighten my highlights between salon visits. While those deep amethyst-hued shampoos certainly nix brassiness, they also suck the moisture from my strands, leaving them the same shade and texture as straw. Daily lilac shampoos, on the other hand, are too watered-down, making very little difference to the overall result. However, this wasn't the case with Olaplex's offering. 

The first thing to note is that my hair looked and felt salon-fresh after using it. The tone is customizable, so I only left it on recently-dyed hair for a maximum of three minutes once a week. After six weeks, I upped the toning time to five minutes, twice a week. It’s also sulfate-free, so the formula isn’t harsh on strands or on the scalp—which is important, given what your roots go through in the colorist’s chair. Regardless, my hair never felt parched and, crucially, I was putting goodness back into strands post-color courtesy of Olaplex’s infamous bond-repairing molecule. I also think would also work well in an Olaplex routine for curly hair that's been bleached blonde and needs cooling. 

I also love that you can slot this shampoo into your usual hair care routine. You don’t have to buy a separate conditioner to create a de-brassing "system", you simply follow with your usual No.5 Bond Maintenance Conditioner. Of course, you could use another conditioner if you wish, but I find products from the same brand tend to work in synergy; with Olaplex, this is all the more important, given its unique molecule.

For me, the luminous shine and multi-dimensional tones my hair is left with are a testament to that. The cherry on top, though? The purple shade doesn’t stain your hands or your shower curtain. 

More and more of us are making the move from liquid shampoo to shampoo bars, and not just because they are super handy when it comes to traveling. They are great when it comes to sustainability too, reducing the need for extra plastic waste. After putting several of the best shampoo bars on the market to the test, we found that the Ethique shampoo bar was easily one of the best.

If you're new to the world of shampoo bars, then this one is the perfect place to start. Packed with nourishing ingredients, the Ethique bar helps to inject moisture and shine back into dull, dry hair. It foams up easily and quickly compared to other shampoo bars on the market, and it's also lightweight, which means it's super easy to massage into the scalp and right through to the very ends of the hair. 

Plus, not only does their Mintasy solid shampoo (as above) look visually appealing thanks to its bright green color (hello perfect Insta shot), but it also smells incredible!

The need to know

• RRP: $14/£12
• Best for: Dry hair
• Ingredients: Ghanaian cocoa butter, peppermint oil and organic creamed coconut butter
• Aim of the product: To nourish hair without weighing it down
• Is it scented? Yes

A beauty editor's honest review of the Ethique shampoo bar

Ethique shampoo bar: the ingredients

The hero ingredients in the solid Ethique shampoo bar Mintasy are cocoa butter, coconut oil, and peppermint extract. It is safe for use on color-treated hair and is also soap-free and pH balanced. It’s formulated with sodium coco-sulfate, which is a foaming agent made from fatty acids found in coconut oil—an alternative to using palm oil. 

The use of sulfates is something that divides people; while some like them because of the foaming effect, others don’t because they have been known to strip hair of natural oils and cause dryness—especially in curly hair, which dries faster than other hair types. However, it’s worth noting that all the ingredients that Ethique use are vegan, sustainably produced and sourced, and don’t contain palm oil or petrochemicals. This means that nothing is derived from petroleum. 

Like every product in Ethique’s product range, their shampoo bar comes housed in a fully recyclable cardboard box and it’s also completely plastic-free. The packaging that the bars are shipped in is also plastic-free and sustainable as Ethique uses cardboard and paper to wrap and send product orders.

Use—how do you use the Ethique Mintasy shampoo bar?

If you're new to shampoo bars, it's all about the adjustment process. If you want to ditch liquid shampoo and try a shampoo bar then it's worth noting that after years of using a liquid shampoo, using a shampoo bar for the first time can be a little strange. After all, we're used to just squeezing a bottle and massing the product into hair, and bar shampoo doesn't operate in quite the same way. But it's well worth sticking with it, as there are big benefits to be had. 

There are two ways to use Ethique’s shampoo bar—you can either wet it and create a lather in your hands, much like how you’d use a normal soap; or you can wet it and then rub it down your hair.

We would advise starting at the ends and going all the way down to the roots if you choose the second method. But, you’ll have to repeat it around three times to ensure you have enough product to actually massage and cleanse your hair. It's worth noting that it can also cause tangles and knots depending on your hair texture—this is when using one of the best brushes for curly hair can really come into its own. 

One thing we liked was about the Ethique shampoo bar was the fact that it’s square, which means it’s easier to grip and less likely to slip and slide out of the hands. When it comes to storage, it’s best to use one of Ethique’s plastic-free storage containers or an alternative soap saver, making sure you allow the product to fully dry out between uses and that it isn’t kept in running or standing water.

Results—does the Ethique Mintasy shampoo bar work?

When we used this shampoo bar we followed it with a regular liquid conditioner. The addition of peppermint extract means that it not only smells really refreshing but also felt as if it was really helping to really cleanse the scalp, too. If you're scent adverse, fear not; the minty scent couldn't be detected after washing. 

After using the bar and before conditioning, hair didn’t feel too clean, but it was a little bit ‘squeaky’, suggesting the bar had done its job. It did feel nourished, cleansed, and super hydrated without being matted or knotty, though. When people make the change from liquid to solid shampoo some report that their hair is left feeling waxy or greasy, but we can gladly report that we didn't notice either with this product.

Value—is the Ethique Mintasy shampoo bar worth it?

The Mintasy shampoo bar, as an example of their products, costs around $14/£12 for a 110g bar of soap, which is the equivalent of around three bottles of regular liquid shampoo—so if you're wading on the shampoo bars v liquid shampoo debate, it's definitely something to consider. 

What you need to know about Ethique

What are Ethique's eco-credentials?

Ethique is a sustainable brand that was created in New Zealand and launched worldwide in 2020. The brand has 12 shampoo bars, and Mintasy is ours (and many others) favorite. It’s a brand that prides itself on being completely plastic-free in everything it does, from the products created right through to the packaging that is used for shipping. The fact that the shampoo bar is equivalent to three whole bottles of liquid shampoo means that not only is it saving on plastic, it’s also saving water, and is most likely saving you some money. 

Ethique was founded by Brianne West, a biochemist, and entrepreneur, and to this date, the company has prevented the manufacture and disposal of 9 million plastic bottles. 

Ethique claims that each bottle of liquid shampoo contains up to 80% water, whereas their shampoo bars don’t contain any. As the brand says, it doesn’t make sense to pay for water in products when there is already water in the shower. 

What other shampoo bars and products does Ethique make?

There are a total of 11 scents—including Mintasy—in the Ethique shampoo bar range, which includes citrus to floral fragrances and all with different uses in mind: there are bars for those with oily hair or for those that need a bit of volume, one perfect for shampooing and shaving and even a gentle one for little ones.

Read below for the full range of shampoo bars:

• Bar Minimum: an unscented solid shampoo bar.
• Frizz Wrangler: the solution for frizzy and dry hair.
• Heali Kiwi: this bar is formulated with oatmeal and ancient ayurvedic oils for those with dandruff and scalp issues.
• Oaty Delicious: a gentle shampoo bar that is perfect for little ones.
• Mintasy: the one with coconut oil and cocoa butter and a cult following.
• Pinkalicious: this one has a refreshing grapefruit scent and is great for those with normal hair.
• St Celements: the yellow bar which is formulated for those with oily hair.
• Sweet & Spicy: adds volume to hair that needs a little oomph.
• Tip-to-Tot: great for sensitive skin, for both babies and adults alike.
• Tip-to-Toe: this doubles as the perfect base for shaving.
• Tone It Down: shampoo away brassy tones with this solid purple shampoo bar

Ethique also creates several other products which cover haircare (shampoo and conditioner), skincare (cleansers, moisturizers, scrubs), lip care, and body care (scrubs, moisturizers, deodorant). They even have a range of household cleaning product—in solid bar form, no less—including kitchen and bathroom cleaners.

My Imperfect Life’s verdict on the Ethique Mintasy shampoo bar

Real talk—overall, this shampoo bar seriously impressed our tester. One thing that lets this bar down is that it does contain sulfates, but we managed to overlook that because it was able to hydrate, nourish, and seriously smooth hair while also ensuring it was really well cleansed. 

It didn’t cause hair to tangle or clump or become knotty. Instead, it was easy to brush through. The added peppermint extract in their Mintasy option makes it perfect to use in the morning as the zingy scent will help wake you up, and although it’s a shame that scent doesn’t last in the hair, that’s not necessarily a bad thing—especially if you don't like an overpowering smell.

What about concerns with the price? Yes, the Ethique shampoo bar verges on the more expensive side in comparison to other bars, but it’s also one of the biggest that we tested. And the fact that it doesn’t contain any water means it’s an extremely concentrated formula that is the equivalent of three bottles of shampoo—a seriously impressive stat. 

Overall, we think it’s well worth the money and is definitely something we would spend our money on—in fact, one of our editors now swears by it. The brand’s eco-credentials alone make it a solid choice, but combine that with Ethique’s pledge to plant a tree for every sale and the fact that Mintasy didn’t leave our hair feeling greasy or waxy, and you’ve found yourself a seriously great choice to make the switch to shampoo bars without the awkward transitional stage. 

Curious about the Lovense Lush 2? Then you'll be happy to hear our adventurous side loves the upgrade of the original Lovense bullet vibrator in our tried-and-tested Lovense Lush 2 review. (Yes, our in-house product tester personally put in the time evaluating this baby, because we're nothing if not givers!)

The new version of the pleasure gadget has been improved based on user feedback and, in our educated opinion, has become one of the best sex toys and app-controlled vibrators on the market—and we know how many types of vibrators there are to compete with! A love-egg style vibrator, the Lush 2 is a wearable device made from high-quality, body-safe silicone, and it can be controlled by the click of a button or with Lovense's app. (The original Lush model, which was released in 2015, was the first vibrator to be controllable via an Apple Watch, per the brand. The Lush 2 debuted four years later.)

The latter allows your partner to choose how much and what type of vibration you’re getting from your toy from up to 30 feet via Bluetooth or from anywhere in the world over the internet. Vibrations come from the larger end of the curved toy, which can be inserted into the vagina to apply some much-appreciated pressure to the G-spot. (Fingers crossed for that elusive extended orgasm, eh?)

"Lovense is the only toy in the market that makes virtual sex nearly close to the real sex," co-founder and CEO Dan Liu told Tech.co. 

Here are all of the must-know details—positive and negative—of the Lovense Lush 2 model, per our writer's thorough review.

How we tested the Lovense Lush 2:

We diligently tested the Lovense Lush 2 not once, not twice, but three times. (You’re welcome!) 

Our first Lush 2 experience was alone, using both the app and the single button on the antenna to control it. Our second time, we had our partner—located several miles away—controlling the vibrator through the Lovense Remote app. Our third test was in public. We wore the vibrator out to a bar and sat across from our partner who was controlling it with the app.

During our tests, we assessed the following:

• Vibrator strength
• Vibrator form
• Vibrator noise (particularly important for public play)
• App connection
• User-friendliness
• Price point

Lovense Lush 2 review: Everything you need to know

FORM of the Lovense Lush 2

The Lovense Lush 2 is a C-shaped toy with one bulbous end (where the motor is located) that is inserted into the vagina, and one thinner end or "antenna" that sits externally.

This curved design means it’s a wearable device that can be worn in public and controlled by a partner via the Lovense Remote app. It’s fairly quiet, too, so it’s discreet enough for public play as long as there’s some background noise. (No masturbating in the library, sorry!) We did find that the antenna can sneak out the side of your underwear, especially if you’re on the move, so definitely put some thought into the outfit you’ll be donning during the act. If you're aiming for fully discreet you could also try the best vibrating panties. 

The pros: The angled shape of Lush 2’s larger end means it hits the G-spot perfectly when inserted, while the strong vibrations emanating from its powerful motor spread across the whole vagina. The flexible antenna stays outside the body searching for the Bluetooth connection required for using the app. It also comes in handy as a way to move the vibrator manually into the desired position and to control vibrations with the button on its tip.

The cons: The downside of this vibrator’s design is that the antenna doesn’t provide any clitoral stimulation, which means if you require that to climax then you’ll have to stimulate your clitoris yourself. Or just use the toy externally—but then your G-spot might get jealous!

While we know some types of vibrators have so many different buttons to contend with that you feel more like you’re trying to control the Starship Enterprise than a simple sex toy, we were pleased to find that the Lush 2 has just one button (located on its antenna) and it pretty much does everything. To turn on or pair the device, you simply hold down the button for 3 to 5 seconds until the red light flashes; push it once to move between vibration patterns. That’s it. An orgasm never felt so easy!

POWER SOURCE of the Lovense Lush 2

You’ll never have to bulk order a suspicious number of batteries for your vibrator again if you’re using the Lovense Lush 2. This device comes with a USB charging cable that acts in the same way as a phone charger. It plugs into any USB port, including power banks, in case you run out of juice on any naughty public sex-capades. 

It takes about 70 minutes to charge fully and you can tell it’s charging when the red indicator light is lit up. Make sure you don’t use it while it’s fueling up, though—Lovense warns against it and where the safety of our vag is concerned, we listen!

FUNCTIONS of the Lovense Lush 2

Like our other beloved toy, the Lovense Nora, the Lush 2 has seven different vibration modes that all pack a punch—even the "weaker" ones. You can easily cycle through low, medium, high, pulse, wave, fireworks and earthquake (yep, it’s as good as it sounds) by pressing the button on the antenna.

MAINTENANCE of the Lovense Lush 2

When you’re spending upwards of 100 dollars on something, you want to make sure it lasts. We’ve found this to be a durable vibrator so far, especially when looked after carefully. 

This entails covering it in water-based lube before insertion, cleaning it with water and mild soap or sex toy cleaner before and after every use, drying it thoroughly and then storing it in a bag or the box it came in. You know what they say: with great power comes great responsibility.

For the Lovense Lush 2, review the brand's recommendations that you recharge your toy at least once every six months to keep it in working order. If you’re anything like us, though, that won’t be a problem—you’ll have to charge it a heck of a lot more than that.

APP CAPABILITIES of the Lovense Lush 2

Your Lush 2 vibrator can be easily connected to the Lovense Remote app using Bluetooth technology. This not only means that you can control your toy from your phone when masturbating solo (if that’s what floats your boat) but also—more excitingly—that you can give someone else the power to control your vibrator from their phone. Just get them to download the app too and send them an invite. 

With the Lush 2 being a wearable device, this function particularly lends itself to being used for discreet public play. You can sit opposite your partner in a restaurant, for example, enjoying secret pulsations in your pants while they relish having power over your pleasure.

If that seems a bit too adventurous, though, you and your partner can play with the app from the comfort of your own homes. Along with two different control panels, it also offers countless pre-programmed vibration patterns created by anonymous users, the opportunity to create your own patterns, a chat function for serious sexting and a video call mode too. You can even sync your toy to music or it can be sound-activated.

While some app-controlled vibrators can suffer from a poor Bluetooth connection, we didn’t have any issues when using the Lush 2 and the Lovense Remote app, even under clothes or while in the bath.

SHOULD YOU BUY the Lovense Lush 2?

If your main need to reach orgasm is clitoral stimulation, then we’d say the Lovense Lush 2 is sadly not for you. Thankfully, we have a list of the best clit vibrators to fulfil that need. If, however, you’re a sucker for G-spot stimulation or want a quiet toy to try out in public, then you’ll no doubt think this vibrator is pretty lush. Enjoy!

Both high-performing and stylish, Nike workout clothes are a must to check out when shopping for new exercise gear. Whether you’re a yoga bunny, HIIT hero or a running fanatic—or you love all of the above—it’s important to have quality kit that will accommodate your workout needs.

The best workout clothes offer something for everyone, regardless of intensity or skill level. Gym clothes are designed to make working out a more comfortable and pleasant experience, whatever your athletic status. 

Over the year, we've tested dozens of activewear brands and put their kit through its paces, from training tanks to joggers and various types of leggings. And while each one has unique and high-quality offerings, Nike is a household name that exercise-doers all over the world rely on for workouts or sports games.

If you’re an avid gym-goer, you likely already have some Nike apparel in your wardrobe, be it a trusty sports bra, some classic black gym leggings, or even a pair of the brand’s many running trainers. Nike is a brand trusted by actual athletes, as the garments not only make working out feel nice, they also make it easier thanks to functional elements—so much so that it's endorsed by sporting legends like Serena Williams, Simone Biles and Mo Farah.

The best Nike workout clothes, reviewed by an expert

1. Nike One Leggings

Nike One leggings are a great purchase choice, both for general workouts and everyday wear. They are super-stretchy so they truly deliver that "second skin" feeling that's aimed for by most pairs of leggings. Their flexible and "barely there" nature makes them perfect for a whole range of different sports and activities, whether that’s getting into different positions during yoga, pushing yourself during HIIT class, or trying to pedal to the medal on a spin bike.

Like other designs that the brand offers, these leggings also have zero transparency, which means they pass the “squat test” (testing if your underwear is visible through the garment when the fabric stretches during a squat).

Perhaps the best feature of these leggings, in our opinion (and actually Nike leggings on the whole)? How cooling they are. They’re made up of a fast-drying material that helps to get rid of sweat, and they also feature mesh panels at the back of the legs to ensure an airy workout.

2. Nike high-support sports bra

A key part of a women’s workout collection is a sports bra, but there’s no point in wearing one if it doesn't withstand impact sufficiently. Thankfully, we found that the Nike Swooshhigh-support sports bra does exactly as the name suggests—extra support during those intense exercise sessions, be they on the treadmill, during an intensive hit session, or in a dance class. But this sports bra really does.

Design-wise, the straps are adjustable, so you can tailor just how much support you want and the bra molds to your body shape beautifully—making it super comfortable to wear. And it’s not the only Nike sports bra that delivers this maximum support. The Nike Alpha high-support bra is another great choice, particularly if you have a bigger bust—which can make working out difficult at times. 

Perhaps one of the reasons for this is the fact that Nike sells sports bras in actual bra sizes, rather than just small/medium/large, which is far more ambiguous, especially as these sizes tend to vary by brand. We approve!

Nike workout clothes pricing: how much do they cost?

There’s no denying that there are cheaper options out there when it comes to activewear. However, the quality of Nike’s products—across the board—justifies spending a little more.

It’s worth pointing out that Nike prices are mid-range compared with other retailers, though they are a more affordable alternative to premium brands, such as Sweaty Betty and Lululemon. Nike gym leggings, for example, usually start from $40/£35, whereas Girlfriend Collective leggings retail around $68/£65, and Sweaty Betty and Lululemon options typically start at around $85/£70. If you want to invest a little in quality options but don't have unlimited funds, Nike is well-positioned.

Nike is more expensive than H&M, ASOS and Boux Avenue’s offerings, but the technical elements—like breathability, fast-drying fabrics, and a general lightness to the garments—make their workout gear a cut above the rest. Essentially, you’re splashing out a little more for features that aid your workout, such as compression leggings and sports bras that are actually supportive.

Quality of Nike workout clothes

Nike has been designing clothes since the 1960s, meaning they have more than 60 years of experience under their belt in the sportswear department. This really shows in terms of the products, which stand out for three key reasons: exceptional high quality, advanced technical features, and impeccable design.

Technical features of Nike workout clothes

Nike pays a lot of attention to the technical features of its clothes in order to help an individual’s performance. Several pieces in the collection employ the brand's Dri-FIT technology, a microfiber polyester fabric that moves sweat away from the body and to the fabric surface, where it evaporates. The result? Athletes are kept dry and comfortable. So whether you prefer to work out in tight or loose-fitting clothes, Nike has you covered. 

Some pieces are also made with mesh panels, either on the bottom of leggings or in the middle of sports bras, to offer additional ventilation—which is always welcome during a workout. Others, like the Victory Women’s Training leggings, are made with graduated compression that targets key muscle groups. Some leggings also offer seamless sides, which means you won't feel any fabric digging into you during a workout session. It’s little details like these that make all the difference when working out.

Fit of Nike workout clothes

This quality and dedication to detail can also be seen in the fit of the garments, too. Leggings are soft and stretchy, but are durable and thick enough so they are not transparent. 

The sports bras are supportive but mold to the shape of your body and actually stay in place during a high-impact session. Likewise, Nike tops are designed to flatter, with the option for either loose or tight-fitting clothing—whichever the individual prefers. 

Comfort of Nike workout clothes

Working out should be a pleasant experience and, as well as performing well technically, the purpose of activewear is to make an athlete feel as comfortable as possible. It’s clear that a lot of attention goes into the design of Nike’s clothes, as they are generally as comfortable as it gets—from slimline fast-drying running tights, to lightweight, airy tops and purpose-built sports bras.

In fact, Nike’s workout clothes are so comfy they aren’t just limited to the gym. With the rise of athleisure, people wear them for everyday activities and love how good they feel, even when they’re not exercising.

Are Nike workout clothes worth it?

Yes, from fashion to function, after putting them to the test, we can confidently say Nike workout clothes are worth the spends—and they're very easy to get hold of, available directly on the brand’s official website or via retailers such as ASOS, Nordstrom and Macy's.

This year we’ve all been leaning towards sunkissed, glowy skin which means a shimmery bronzer definitely fits the assignment—so I tried Fenty’ Beauty's Toast’D Swirl bronzer and these are my honest thoughts, as a self-proclaimed beauty obsessive.

I’d love to say I’m one of those gals who can get a natural tan, or even wear fake tan for that summary golden look. Alas, I’m that kind of opalescent pale where my skin is basically luminous in direct sunlight and burns very easily—so it's usually protected under layer upon layer of the best sunscreens.

That being said, I do love a bronzer to make my face look a little more healthy and glowy—which is why I have been vigorously testing Fenty’s shimmery offering, which is currently included in the Fenty Beauty Black Friday 2022 deals.

So, if you've been on the hunt for a new bronzer in the sales but aren't sure which product is worth the hype, perhaps I can tempt you with this Toast'D number...

• View at Fenty in the US
• View at Fenty in the UK

My skin type and makeup preferences

As mentioned, my skin is cool-toned and very pale—I’m shade number one in basically every foundation and concealer but to combat this ghostly look, I wear a lot of blush and a light sweeping of bronzer on the daily. 

As far as my skin texture goes, I am lucky to have fairly clear skin, though it's on the sensitive and dry side—my face shape is oval.

I tend to lean towards minimal makeup, my usual routine consists of Charlotte Tilbury’s Flawless Filter, foundation, blush and mascara with my browns filled in and brushed up with Refy’s Brow gel. The Summer months are when I start to reach for my bronzers—but I prefer all my face products are blended and seamless.

How to apply the Fenty Toast'D Swirl Bronzer

I would suggest applying it where you want definition, you can either opt for the classic ‘3’ shape application—so forehead, cheekbone, jawline or go for a more contoured look. 

If you're a fan of the 'sunburn' blush trend , buffing this bronzer onto your cheeks and over the bridge of your nose will give you a similar look, as if your initial sunburn has become a tan.

My verdict on Fenty’s Toast’D Swirl Shimmer Bronzer

This shimmery dream of a bronzer comes in two shades, Chocolate Swiller, a champagne bronze and Pecan Swiller—a more golden bronze and is designed for both your face and your body. I’m a sucker for a 2-in-1 so that’s already a point to the pro list.

So you can buff it under your cheekbone and around your decolletage—or anywhere for that matter and you’ll be left with a sun-kissed shimmer as if you’ve just returned from the beach.

I tested out the Chocolate Swiller and instantly loved how buildable it was. I was initially skeptical when opening the very cute, marbled lilac and gold compact because the ratio to bronzer and highlighter seemed way off—but as soon as I’d dabbed my brush in and applied it under my cheekbones, my fears were dispelled. The color payoff is immaculate.

 I’d also like to take a minute for the compact itself, you get a generous amount of product for the price—plus a larger mirror which is perfect for your handbag!

The first layer of this bronzer gave me a healthy, diffused-looking glow—I tend to opt for the '3' shape. I did find though that because it’s so pigmented, it can be a little unforgiving. Once you’ve committed to the placement, it won’t blend away very easily. 

The same goes for if you forget to tap your brush, once a lot is on your cheek, it won’t really budge. Although that is a good thing if you want your makeup to last all day!

The shimmer is really pretty and doesn’t create a weird grey cast as they often can, it perfectly blends with the chocolatey shade to give a radiant glow. The lighter shade is also perfect as just a highlighter, I started taking it on my pinky finger and applying it to the inner corners of my eye and well as my brow bones. 

Overall I’ll say this shimmer bronzer is very pretty and great if you’re looking for a summer bronzer—however, it is very sparkly, so it might not be for every day. It can also go patchy if you use other cream products and does accentuate any dry patches which I didn’t love.

If like me, you’re more on the pale side—apply with care, as it can’t look slightly orange/ unnatural if you apply too much. 

Besides that, it’s a great all-rounder—but I’m not sure I’ll be swapping it for my sunburnt blush look anytime soon.

• View at Fenty in the US
• View at Fenty in the UK

Girlfriend Collective leggings have quickly become a buzzword in fitness circles, with sustainable credentials to boot. But are they actually worth the hype? To find out for sure, I put them to the test so you can find out before you hit the checkout. 

From vigorous exercise to bouts of general clumsiness, I tend to put even my best workout clothes through a gamut of tests—especially my performance leggings. So it's safe to say that I expect a lot from the quality and strength of the fabric (I am a running buff journalist training for my first marathon, after all.) But in recent years, it’s become just as important to question how ethical my choices in activewear are, as well as which are the best eco-friendly fitness names on the market.

Girlfriend Collective wasn’t on my radar initially, as I tended to lean toward the big gym giants, which aren't always the best choices for sustainable activewear. The best sustainable fashion brands, especially those focused on workout wear, are frequently presumed to not be durable or fit for purpose.

Yet, with its trendy millennial branding and transparency around its manufacturing processes, I found Girlfriend Collective to be a refreshing change from my usual go-tos. The American brand was founded by entrepreneur Ellie Dinh in 2016 as she, too, was having trouble finding women’s leggings that were made ethically. Seeing a gap in the market, Dinh created her own.

Girlfriend Collective’s Compressive High-Rise Leggings are made mostly with recycled plastic that was once destined for landfills. Not that you would guess—the leggings have serious mainstream appeal, with the added benefit of being good for the environment. Girlfriend Collective seems to have mastered activewear that’s sustainable, size-inclusive, and fashionable, making it one of the best eco-conscious fitness brands on the market. 

How we tested the Girlfriend Collective leggings

While workout wear partly comes down to personal preference, there are a few universal criteria that most people look out for when it comes to fitness leggings like Girlfriend Collective's pair. We want them to be supportive (the kind that has you covered—literally—during those jump squats), comfortable (we're about leisure as much as athleisure, after all) and long-lasting (especially if you're forking over a pretty penny for them). 

During my tests of the Girlfriend Collective leggings, which included both running and squat sessions, I assessed the following factors. 

• Are they stretchy yet supportive? 
• Are they moisture-wicking yet breathable? 
• Are they compressive yet comfortable?
• Do they run true to size?
• Do they fit well? Are they full-length? 
• Are they non-see-through?
• Do they retain their structure, even after a wash?
• Are they worth the price?

How much do Girlfriend Collective leggings cost? 

Girlfriend Collective sits somewhere within the affordable and premium price ranges. The brand's compressive high-rise leggings, for example, cost $78 (£65) and promise a lifetime of wear. There are more affordable brands on the market, true, but it's a competitive price when you consider that other premium brands, such as Lululemon and Sweaty Betty, offer a similar product for a bit more money.

How sustainable are Girlfriend Collective leggings?

The majority of mainstream sportswear is made from plastic-derived fabrics, such as polyester, nylon, and Lycra. Although the brand still uses plastic, Girlfriend Collective repurposes materials that would otherwise clog landfills and pollute the earth. The brand really takes the saying "one man (or woman’s) trash is another man’s treasure" seriously, making activewear out of recycled materials that include fishing nets and water bottles. So far they’ve recycled 4,482,875 bottles and saved 3,811,434 CO2 emissions—now those are some figures to be proud of!

More specifically, Girlfriend Collective Compressive High-Rise Leggings utilize "up to 25 plastic water bottles" per item, as well as ethical dip dyes to give them their bold colors. Interestingly, Girlfriend Collective doesn’t use American manufacturers and instead uses a "certified factory" in Hanoi, Vietnam. The brand says the factory guarantees fair wages, safe and healthy conditions, and zero forced or child labor.

Size range and fit of Girlfriend Collective leggings: are they true to size and inclusive? 

Mainstream fashion often isn't size-inclusive, also a common criticism for many sustainable fashion brands across the board. Thankfully, Girlfriend Collective’s sizes go up to a 6XL. 

As a UK size 10 (about a US 6), I decided on the small bottoms. The leggings are true to size and don’t feel like vanity sizing, more like "reality sizing", and I didn’t have to worry about sizing up or down. 

For transparency, I’m 5 foot 10 inches and these leggings fit me to the ankle. The longer length of these leggings is a huge plus for me, but not necessarily suited to someone of average height. 

However, the leggings are made of a thick material that I did have a little difficulty getting into. This reminded me of trying to get into a wetsuit, as in there’s a lot of tugging. But although the material is tough to pull on, they don’t feel tough to wear, as the fabric is soft and breathable. True to its name, the compressive high-rise leggings are, well, compressive. They are a snug fit, giving a supported suction feeling across the stomach and thighs. 

Style of the Girlfriend Collective leggings

Girlfriend Collective knows their audience. With its colorful branding and fresh-faced models, the American brand is aimed at millennial women in their 20s and 30s, which could feel alienating for some demographics. I appreciate that Girlfriend Collective doesn’t fear color. The Compressive High-Rise Leggings come in nine hues and I opted for the plum shade. 

How well do Girlfriend Collective leggings perform?

There’s nothing more uncomfortable (or frustrating) than leggings that sag around the waist or roll down when you’re on a particularly fast sprint. But on my first wear, Girlfriend Collective’s Compressive High-Rise Leggings felt as if they could withstand an active fitness routine. They are made with a "recycled high-stretch fabrication" that features a "four-way stretch" suited to an active lifestyle. The leggings also sport thick seams along the crotch and sides, areas that often suffer embarrassing rips when squatting.

Girlfriend Collective leggings maintenance

Buying sustainable clothing is only one part of the story when it comes to having an ethical wardrobe, as laundry day also offers up its own considerations. One of the major issues with plastic-derived clothing is that, when washed, it can leave tiny bits of plastic in our oceans that affect our marine life. Every year, millions of marine animals—like sea turtles, seals, dolphins, and whales—are harmed by ocean plastic pollution.

And so, when it comes to maintaining the leggings, Girlfriend Collective’s advice is simple: wash them in cold water and hang them to dry. They suggest that this method is better for the environment and reduces energy use.

So, are Girlfriend Collective leggings worth it?

I was wrong to underestimate Girlfriend Collective, as the Compressive High-Rise Leggings stand up to many of my old-faithful pairs. The durable material is also ideal for those who tend to wear their leggings out. 

While the cost of these leggings is more premium, it seems that customers are also paying for peace of mind here. Girlfriend Collective takes all of the difficulty out of sustainable shopping by doing much of the necessary research for you. The company is transparent about the materials used and even the steps that it is taking to continue to improve its sustainable offerings.

With so many topical vitamin C products on the market, it's hard to know which is the best—especially when they all claim to be the best thing since sliced bread. Which is exactly why we put the La Roche-Posay Pure Vitamin C10 serum to the test.

There are many reasons to add one of the best vitamin C serum to your arsenal, as this ingredient is a powerhouse in more ways than one. It’s a potent antioxidant and protects the skin against UV rays and other environmental aggressors. It can stop the overproduction of pigment and fade dark spots, and rev up collagen production for fewer lines and firmer skin, as well as boosting the overall radiance of your skin. Yep, the benefits of vitamin C are almost endless. 

There is one major drawback, however—certain forms of vitamin C can be incredibly irritating to sensitive skin. The form most likely to aggravate reactive skin is L-ascorbic acid. As the most stable form it's also the most potent, and therefore the most sensitizing (it has a low pH, which can weaken the skin’s barrier function, increasing the likelihood of dryness and peeling). This is one reason skin experts usually recommend those with dry and sensitive skin use magnesium ascorbyl phosphate, a water-soluble form that, although less stable, is also less irritating.

A beauty editor's honest review of La Roche-Posay Pure Vitamin C10 Serum

The need-to-knows

Targets: Hyperpigmentation, dullness, fine lines and can be used by anyone in their 20s upwards.

USP: It’s formulated at a skin-friendly pH of 5.5 to ensure the vitamin C is non-irritating even on sensitive skin. It also contains salicylic acid, which has mild exfoliating properties to enhance skin’s brightness.

Who is it for? Anyone in their twenties and upwards who is looking for a fuss-free, dermatologist-vetted vitamin C serum. 

Formula—the science behind La Roche-Posay Pure Vitamin C10 Serum

La Roche-Posay has built a reputation on skincare that plays nicely with sensitive skin. And the Pure Vitamin C10 Serum's credentials seem to confirm that this skin type was in mind when creating a 10% vitamin C serum. The L-ascorbic acid is formulated at a pH of 5.5, which is also the skin’s natural pH, the idea being that it will not be as irritating. 10% is also effective enough to spark change, improving skin’s elasticity and protecting against damage caused by free radicals. 

In serum form, the vitamin C is kept stable and its tiny molecules are able to penetrate through the outer skin layer more efficiently. Unusually, this serum also contains salicylic acid, again at levels suitable for sensitive skin, to help exfoliate and double down on vitamin C’s brightening powers. The icing on the cake is the inclusion of neurosensine, a peptide that occurs naturally in the skin and can block pain sensation, therefore reducing those sensitive symptoms. 

La Roche-Posay Pure Vitamin C10 Serum packaging

We would normally urge caution when it comes to judging a product by its cover (read: packaging), but in the case of vitamin C it’s actually crucial. If you’ve ever used a vitamin C serum and the smell or color has changed over time, oxidation—deterioration as a result of being exposed to air, light or water—was likely the culprit.

That isn't an issue with Pure Vitamin C10 Serum, which is packaged in a UV-filtered bright orange bottle to protect it from the sun and keep it as potent as possible. The serum is also delivered via a pipette, so you get a precise dose each time. One bottle should last you around two months. 

Application—How to apply the La Roche-Posay Pure Vitamin C10 Serum

It's important to know how to use vitamin C so that you really get the most out of it. There's been a long-running debate over whether you should use vitamin C in the morning or at night, and while it's beneficial at either time of day, using it in the morning will help you reap the benefits of that antioxidant protection.

As with any active ingredient, it’s important to incorporate it into your regime slowly. Try using Pure Vitamin C10 Serum three times a week for the first two weeks, then work up to daily use. As for complementary ingredients, vitamin C works particularly well in tandem with other antioxidants, like vitamin E and ferulic acid, or with a hydrating moisturizer rich in ingredients like vitamin B and hyaluronic acid.

While vitamin C can help to brighten hyperpigmentation, you still need to wear an SPF during the day. Wait a few minutes in the morning for the serum to absorb into the skin, then apply an SPF of at least 30 over the top to ensure you prevent future dark spots from appearing. 

The verdict—Is the La Roche-Posay Pure Vitamin C10 Serum worth buying?

All in all, this serum is a winning formula in our eyes. The texture glides on smoothly and absorbs into the skin quickly, without leaving a greasy residue in its wake. Also important is the fact that it doesn’t pill under sunscreen, and I experienced no burning sensation on application.

After two months of use, I started to see an improvement in my skin tone as those dark spots I mentioned earlier began fading. But the best part? Thanks to a tangerine undertone I also found I got immediate gratification, as this serum gives you enough of a bronzed glow to get away with wearing no foundation.

Having whipped up a hoard of loyal fans and cultish followers into a frenzy, Origins GinZing Moisturizer is a much-lauded skincare buy. That's why I've put it through its paces in this dedicated review so you can work out if it's right for you, too. 

Knowing how to choose moisturizer may not seem easy to skincare novices but, having made it onto our list of the best moisturizers for dry skin, this cream is a match made in heaven for combination to oily skin types. 

The search for effective, non-comedogenic—that’s a fancy way of saying products that won’t cause pore blockages—moisturizers is a lifelong commitment for those of us with combination-to-oily skin. But that’s actually not the only reason I veer away from oil-based skincare. 

An honest review of Origins GinZing Energy Boosting Oil-Free Gel Moisturizer

It wasn't until my late twenties that I found out I suffer from mild rosacea. The tell-tale signs were there—flushed cheeks after a glass of red wine, blotchy skin at the gym, a heightened sensitivity to the sun. But it took visiting a dermatologist (for a different reason) to get a diagnosis. “Skin that has rosacea will feel more sensitive but often has an oily component,” Dr. Ifeoma Ejikeme, aesthetic doctor and medical director of Adonia Medical Clinic told me. “Oily products and products that clog the pores can really aggravate rosacea."

So I waved goodbye to my much-loved facial oil and embarked on a quest to establish a rosacea skincare routine, including the perfect moisturizer. That's where Origins GinZing Energy Boosting Oil-Free Gel Moisturizer comes in—a hybrid of glow-boosting ingredients and super-hydrating technology, that’s both light and oil-free. So, does it hydrate without irritating my skin? I put it to the test to find out.

The need-to-knows

Targets:
This moisturizer is suitable for all skin types and targets tired-looking and dull complexions in need of an intense moisture hit. 

USP:
Reviving plant extracts. Promises to keep skin hydrated for 72 hours. 

Key ingredients:
Caffeine (derived from coffee beans) to refresh and recharge, panax ginseng, a plant used in traditional Chinese medicine to boost the skin’s energy, sunflower seeds, and barley, containing essential lipids, and Hydra-Hug, Origin’s latest hydration technology.

Formula—what's in the Oil-Free Origins GinZing Gel Moisturizer?

Origins is famed for harnessing the power of plants and using natural, active ingredients to revive dull complexions, and the GinZing Energy-Boosting Oil-Free Gel Moisturizer is no exception.

It's charged with panax ginseng, a small-but-mighty perennial plant grown in the mountains of East Asia. Ginseng is an antioxidant known for its invigorating properties and has been used for centuries in traditional Chinese medicine. While this formula doesn't promise these same health benefits, it does encourage anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects—quite evident, as regular use did calm my rosacea-prone skin. 

The brand recently reworked this best-selling formula with the introduction of its “Hydra-Hug” hydration technology. The brand claims this tackles dryness at a cellular level, bridging the gap between skill cells (with a “hug”, geddit?) to lock in moisture. It also contains coffee bean extract to perk up tired skin.  

Origins GinZing Energy Boosting Oil-Free Gel Moisturizer packaging

Origins are well known for their bold colors and pretty fonts, making products a welcome addition to any dressing table or bathroom cabinet. GinZing is, quite fittingly, housed in a vibrant orange tub, neatly sealed up in the brand’s usual aesthetically appealing cardboard packaging.

The brand has a commitment to sustainability and it’s a big part of its ethos, so all packaging is made from largely recycled materials that have been produced by renewable energy sources.

Application—what is Origins GinZing Energy Boosting Oil-Free Gel Moisturizer like to use?

Early birds will rejoice at the way this energy-boosting moisturizer glides onto skin after a morning shower or early workout session, with a scent that can only be described as mood-boosting. The moisturizer’s cooling texture was a welcome reviver after an early morning wake-up call; my lackluster skin and puffy eyes felt instantly refreshed. Meanwhile the uplifting scent—orange peel, grapefruit, and spearmint oil—adds to that fresh-as-daisy, ready-to-take-on-the-world feeling. 

After ditching the oil, I’ve been careful about which products I invest in, but it’s reassuring to know there are options out there that offer lasting moisture throughout the day and night without any heaviness. I’d recommend using this cream as a morning pick-me-up and switching to something a little more heavy-duty in the evening for more nourishment overnight. Oiler skins may want to use it both day and night, however.

The verdict—is the Origins GinZing Energy Boosting Oil-Free Gel Moisturizer worth buying?

The play on words in its name comes across loud and clear, but I can confirm this formula did help to wake up my tired skin. It lives up to its namesake and if you want a moisturizer that will leave you looking like you’ve had your full eight hours of sleep, I fully recommend Origins GinZing moisturizer and all its glow-boosting properties.

As for hydration, does it really last for 72 hours? Well, I’ve never gone that long without washing my face (apart from maybe at Glastonbury back in the day), but what I can tell you is that this delicious-smelling hydrator does deliver a dewy, post-facial freshness that lasts all day. 

The zingy scent and light-as-cotton-candy texture might scream summertime, but hear me out—this is also a great moisturizer for the colder months. Thanks to its hero ingredient, panax ginseng, which is a source of niacinamide, this gel moisturizer really is a genius hydrator. Consider me impressed!

If you're looking for a great app-controlled vibrator, meet the We-Vibe Chorus. Especially great for PIV penetration, this toy is an upgrade of the We-Vibe Sync—a C-shaped wearable device that you can integrate into penetrative sex with a partner without one of you having to hold a gadget the whole time.

It pairs easily with the We-Connect app so it can be used for long-distance or public play but, in our experience, it’s best put to use when you and your partner are in the same room together. Both of you will enjoy added sensations that can enhance your sexy times and bring you to amazing orgasms, making it one of the best sex toys for couples that you can buy. 

The Chorus, which we've chosen as one best app-controlled vibrators on the market, is available from retailers such as Amazon and We-Vibe directly. It's quite a pricy piece of equipment but, when you consider it’s one device that gives two people pleasure, we think it’s worth it. 

We-Vibe Chorus: Everything you need to know

FORM of the We-Vibe Chorus

The slimmer arm slides into the vagina and stimulates the G-spot, while the other one wraps around the body and rests on the clitoris (or nearby, depending on how high or low yours is situated). Both arms have ribbed inner surfaces, while the other side is smooth for the penis to slide against.

One of our favorite features of the We-Vibe Chorus is that both arms have their own powerful internal motor and can be controlled separately when using the app. We also love that its smart design means it’s adjustable, so you can bend it to hit just the right spot.

The Chorus also comes with a squeeze remote that works from up to 10 feet away and can be used to alter the toy’s vibrations.

POWER SOURCE of the We-Vibe Chorus

Like most of the best types of vibrators, the We-Vibe Chorus is rechargeable using a USB cable. This plugs into an inconspicuous charging-cum-storage case, which means you can have your vibrator charging on display in your living room, on your work desk or in the background of a Zoom call, and no one will be any the wiser (unless they have one themselves!). It takes about 120 minutes for the device to charge fully and it can last for up to 90 minutes of passion per charge.

FUNCTIONS of the We-Vibe Chorus

The We-Vibe Chorus has 10 pre-programmed vibration modes: low, medium, high, ultra, pulse, wave, echo, tide, crest and surf. These patterns can be cycled through using the arrow buttons on the remote control, and the intensity can be increased and decreased with the plus and minus buttons. 

We found that these were useful during solo play but, when using the vibrator with a partner, fiddling about with buttons took us out of the moment. Cleverly, We-Vibe had foreseen this and made the remote a "squeeze remote." This means that you can simply choose a mode to enjoy with your partner and, if you want to increase the intensity of the vibration, you simply grip the remote control tighter. Just make sure you’re grabbing the right thing!

CARE AND MAINTENANCE of the We-Vibe Chorus

As with any vibrator, it’s important to keep the We-Vibe Chorus clean—perhaps even more so since it comes into contact with two sets of genitals. Wash it before and after each use using a sex toy cleaner or soap and water. (Check out our guide on how to clean sex toys for more advice.) Though the remote is not waterproof, the main device is, so don’t be afraid to be thorough under the faucet. Then, once it has dried completely, pop it in its futuristic-looking storage case and close the lid to keep dust and dirt away.

The We-Vibe Chorus might well be adjustable but it’s best not to be too vigorous with it just in case. This goes for when a penis-wielding partner is trying to slide into your vagina alongside the toy—lube is especially helpful here as it makes the experience smoother (literally) and stops there being too much pressure put on the vibrator.

APP CAPABILITIES of the We-Vibe Chorus

The We-Vibe Chorus can link up to the We-Connect app via Bluetooth; you simply download the app and go through the outlined steps. Once connected, you can use your phone to control the vibrator. You simply swipe sideways to move between the 10 pre-set vibration patterns and move your finger up and down on the screen to increase and decrease the intensity of the vibration.

What’s particularly great about the Chorus and its intuitive app is that you can control each of the vibrator’s arms independently. So if you want more stimulation on your clitoris but less internally, for instance, it’s possible to vary the vibration mode and speed of each part of the device.

One of the frustrating snags with using app-controlled vibrators can be a dodgy Bluetooth connection. We-Vibe has tried to minimize this issue by using the remote control as a middleman between the toy and the app. It’s a good idea and we did find it helped, though it was occasionally temperamental.   

There are a few unnecessary but appreciated extras on the app, such as three touch-sense modes (changing how the vibrator responds when it touches your skin), the option to create your own vibration sequences, and the ability to connect your toy to music or your own voice. We tried making up and recording a sexy rap but for some reason, it didn’t get us off...

WE-VIBE CHORUS—SHOULD YOU BUY IT?

If you’re sick of getting a hand cramp from holding a bullet on your clitoris at the same time as riding your partner, then the We-Vibe Chorus is definitely a sound investment. (Who doesn't love hands-free vibrators?)

Not only is it totally hands-free (once inserted), but it also provides extra pleasure for both you and your lover and is the ideal toy to take your sex sessions to the next level.

The PMD Clean facial cleansing brush is having its moment on TikTok. Just like the viral e.l.f Halo Glow Liquid Filter and the Skin Proud Frozen Over moisturizer (among many others) before it, the nifty little facial brush has been making its way into the beauty routines of the social-savvy among us—and many are curious as to what's really so special about it.

Well I'll let you in on a little secret...I've actually been using this humble tool long before it went viral on TikTok. As a beauty editor, there are a lot of gadgets and gizmos that I have the privilege of trying, but not many make it into my regular skincare routine. So I was surprised when the PMD Clean made itself so indispensable for me that it's become my go-to—for two big reasons.

Not only does it produce amazing results on the skin, but it's also great for busy routines and lazy evenings. So here's why I gravitate towards it every time...

Why I love the PMD Clean facial cleansing brush 

Here's everything you need to know about the PMD Clean facial cleansing brush—from what it is and what it does to how to use it and what kind of results it gives.

Plus, I lay out exactly why it's overtaken other skincare tools to become a regular in my skincare routine.

What does the PMD Clean do?

First and foremost, what is the PMD Clean and what does it do?

The PMD Clean is a facial cleansing brush that uses vibrating technology to give a deep (but gentle—thanks to its silicone bristles) clean to the skin by working to break down buildup and impurities.

It's a multi-functional tool that features two sides—one for cleansing and one for massaging. The massage feature is what really sets this device apart from other facial cleansing tools. Using the vibration technology, it works to encourage the absorption of serums and moisturisers while toning and firming the complexion.

PMD Clean experience and results

Like the Therabody Theraface Pro, the PMD Clean has become a regular in my skincare routine for two main reasons. First is the ease of use and second is the results. I have a drawer full of facial devices but I'm a morning owl—so when it comes to my evening skincare, my brain usually doesn't have the energy to tackle anything too convoluted. So I usually end up grabbing the PMD Clean to get some extra purifying power out of my cleanser (and save me spending several minutes scrubbing it around my face).

And while it's great at helping get the most out of my cleanser, what I really love about it is the massage side. I hold a lot of tension in my face and I also don't love the natural contours of my face, so regular toning and firming is really important to me. And while I do have other devices that do this more effectively, I usually can't be bothered to use them.

The PMD Clean comes with enough pressure to relieve some of the tension in my face while the vibrations help to tone the contours of my face. I definitely noticed visible results after repeated use. Not only were my facial contours sharper and more defined, but I was left with a subtle glow without any excess oil and shine—something that I have struggled with for decades. Of course, it's not just the PMD Clean itself that garners these results—combining its efforts with the best vitamin C serums (the Skinceuticals CE Ferulic is my favorite), best retinol serums and using ingredients like squalane and niacinamide definitely helps.

How to use the PMD Clean

To get the most out of the PMD Clean, here's how I use it for the best results:

1. Remove makeup with first cleanse (I skip this step on makeup-free days)
2. Squeeze cleanser onto the cleansing side of tool and wet slightly
3. Turn on the device and move it slowly around different areas of your face—I use setting one on my nose and forehead and setting two on softer areas like my cheeks and chin (apply more cleanser to the tool as needed)
4. Rinse and dry device (it's waterproof FYI)
5. Pat serum or moisturizer lightly into face—I usually mist my face first and then apply one my best hyaluronic acid serums
6. Using the massage side of the tool, turn it onto setting three or four (depending on how much strength you want) and move it slowly around your face
7. Spend more time on areas that you might want to firm or contour—for me that's underneath my cheekbones, my chin and jawline, and around my nose
8. When done, pat any remaining product into the skin and remember to rinse off and dry your PMD Clean

While there are plenty of big players to choose from when looking for one of the best eyeliners to add to your make-up routine, the trusty favorite Sephora Colorful Wink-It Felt Liner comes from more humble origins.

Own brand beauty has come quite a way since the days of Victoria’s Secret fragrance mists, and no one does it better than luxury cosmetics haven Sephora. So it’s not hard to believe that our top liquid eyeliner pick hails from the international collector of trailblazing beauty.

Of course, the store isn’t one to do things in small doses so they casually have a whole wardrobe of the best liquid eyeliners to choose from, but the one that has our in-house beauty expert's heart is the Sephora Colorful Wink-It Felt Liner that boasts a balanced nib and impressive formula for creating everything from the simplest lines to the sharpest flicks and the boldest wings.

The need to know

• RRP: $14 (US only)
• Colors available: Black, Black, Brown, Blue, Green
• Waterproof? Yes
• Mini version available? No

Sephora Colorful Wink-It Felt Liner review

Packaging—How is the Sephora liner presented and protected?

With a simple, no bells and whistles tube, this product is all about the interior. It does come with a satisfying click that assures you of its safe closure so that you can be comfortable that the formula won’t dry out and it's super lightweight, making it easy to manipulate when you’re trying to create your flicks and winged eyeliner hacks.

It doesn’t sport a cushioned finger pad like some more premium options do, but with such a lightweight tube there really isn’t the need for one. I wouldn’t say this one stands out from the crowd but then again, it’s sometimes the darkest of horses that create the most spectacular results.

Use—how easy is the Sephora eyeliner to use and apply?

The talents of this one definitely start with its versatile nib. Unlike many other liquid or felt liner tips that either come with a pointy tip for creating precise lines or have thicker more saturated nibs for filling in, the Colorful Wink-It Felt Liner’s nib is both long, with a slightly thicker-set base but simultaneously sports a satisfying sharp point—so you can draw the fiercest wings and colorful eyeliner looks with ultimate precision and fill in bolder, thicker wings without a whole episode of Bridgerton going by unwatched in the background.

The length of the nib also makes for tidier application on the inner parts of the eye, without your lashes getting in the way. And saturation plays a big part in the star-quality of this liner, as the nib delivers just enough formula for a robust look without any bleeding or transfer insight—so even beginners won’t be left with either a panda-eyed mess or a slightly too translucent 90’s look—90s hairstyles might be back in, but this eyeliner look isn't! 

The long, imbued nib also reaches right down to the lash line for maximum impact without seeping through lashes to the eyes and causing irritation. I’ll even sheepishly admit to using this on the regular for two years without the nib drying out—no judgement please, it’s just too good to swap out...

Formula—what is the Sephora eyeliner's formula like?

No talented nib is competent without a robust formula working behind the scenes, so this stretchy, pigmented fluid works hand in hand with the tip for a truly harmonious match. It neither drips nor flakes, and won’t fade or smudge either. 

Possibly the only word of warning I could give about this is that you’ll need a very steady hand to apply or else have a bi-phase remover on hand, as once this goes on it definitely makes itself comfortable. As a result, it's probably not the best eyeliner for beginners.

Results—What does the Sephora liner look like?

With the ability to create a precise line with a bold pigment that doesn’t fade, run or smudge, this will undoubtedly give you the ultimate trifecta you need from a liquid eyeliner.

I also liked that it didn’t come with the cheap-looking patent shine that more budget options sometimes sport. And I'm always astonished at the fierce staying power of our sharp flicks that don't show any sign of softening or smudging—even when met with eyelids that tend to err slightly on the oilier side. It's a great pairing for any look achieved with the best eyeshadow palettes, ensuring that you don't get smudges anywhere. 

My Imperfect Life's verdict on the Sephora Colorful Wink-It Felt Liner

I couldn’t give this anything other than a five-star rating because in all honesty, the only complaint I can make in good faith is that it’s not available in all territories. However, with Sephora UK now opening, I'm hoping to be able to get hold of this without splashing on a plane ticket to New York City.

A considerate nib makes it easy to apply, even for those not well-versed in liquid liner and, despite its $14 price tag, the results are everything you would expect from a premium product, leaving us truly converted when it comes to own-brand buys and earns it a place as one of the best liquid eyeliners around.

It won’t win any prizes in the glam stakes, but with a liquid liner the quality of the products comes first and foremost—and I honestly couldn’t pick one fault with that side of it.

We’ve learned over the years that you get what you pay for when it comes to candles—and that's the case with this Neom Organics scented candle.

Those that burn slowly and have a high concentration of pure essential oils are the best candles because, well, they work! They fill your rooms with a gorgeous fragrance and just make you feel that little bit happier when you walk in. 

So the fact that Neom Organics’ Real Luxury Skin Treatment Scented Candle is one of the best scented candles and a luxurious body oil all in one means we are most definitely fans. Our tried-and-tested review has everything you need to know about this multipurpose marvel. 

Neom Organics scented candle review: everything you need to know

Pricing of the Neom Organics scented candle

The Neom Organics scented candle retails for $46 (£45) for 140g, which is on a par with the ever-popular Jo Malone (from $64/£49 for 200g) and Diptyque ($61/£47 for 190g) scented candles. But when you consider that the Neom candle also produces the most wonderful body oil, it represents much better value for money. The price is consistent across most retailers—even Amazon doesn’t knock off any money.

Packaging of the Neom Organics scented candle

The Neom Organics’ Real Luxury Skin Treatment Scented Candle is in a beautifully simple white ceramic pot with an elegant bronze ring around the top edge and a drip down one side, which reminds us of caramel sauce flowing down the side of a jug. The pot itself has a small spout so it’s easier to pour the oil once melted, which is a clever touch. The branding is a little on the large side, but we’re nitpicking—overall it looks super chic. 

The wax of the Neom Organics scented candle

All of Neom’s products are ethically sourced and contain no harsh chemicals, no artificial colors, no paraffin or mineral wax, and use only 100% natural fragrances—founder Nicola Elliott is a trained aromatherapist, so she has a good nose for mixing complementary scents. They have a burn time of 26 hours, so that’s a good 10 sessions if the candle is burned for two to three hours at a time.

The main notes in the fragrance are lavender, jasmine, and Brazilian rosewood to eliminate stress, combined with 21 other essential oils. (What, you didn’t think they were going to give up their secret blend, did you?) It’s quite a heady scent we found it fairly woody and herb-like, albeit tempered with lighter and fresher notes from the jasmine. But it needs to have a certain amount of potency to do its job of de-stressing.

After lighting, it takes around five minutes for the fragrance to really start permeating into the air in a medium-sized room. We left ours alight for about an hour and the fragrance lingered for a good 15 to 20 minutes after we blew it out.

The oil of the Neom Organics scented candle

Once you’ve appreciated the smell of the candle, it’s time to use the oil. Neom recommends lighting the candle for at least 30 minutes to allow the oil to melt and pool before using it. 

It goes without saying that you shouldn’t pour just-burned oil straight onto your skin; let it cool a little, for a few minutes at least after you’ve blown out the candle, then we found dipping a fingertip into the oil is the best way to check the temperature. When you’re happy that it’s cool enough to massage onto your skin, pour it into the palm of your hand first, then slather it over your body—you have much more control that way and will waste less. 

Using the body oil is quite an intensive treatment and it’s perfect for very dry skin or just to top up your skin’s hydration levels once in a while. It’s a wonderfully luxurious alternative to your regular body oil—it’s best to use it after a long hot soak in the bath when your pores are wide open and better able to absorb all those lovely essential oils.

Neom Organics scented candle: should you buy it?

In a word, yes. Either for yourself or as a gift, this scented candle would be on our wish list if it was ‘just’ a candle, but the fact that it’s a luxury body oil too means we’re sold. In terms of price, it’s about the same as many of the other high-end scented candles on the market, and we really like its simple, elegant design. The fragrance is on the strong side, but that’s exactly what you want from a scented candle. The oil feels really nice on the skin, too.

Our only gripe would be that Neom currently only offers this candle/body oil in one fragrance. This is us asking you to make the others in the range available as Luxury Skin Treatment scented candles, Neom…) If you’re not a lover of lavender, for example—and quite a few people aren’t—you’ve hit a bit of a stumbling block.

That aside, we’re huge fans. Expect other companies to follow the scented candle/body oil mash-up soon.

When a product has as much hype around it as SkinCeuticals CE Ferulic Serum, it’s hard not to be intrigued—and dare we say it, a little skeptical. So our in-house beauty editor put it through its paces to see if it's worth its legendary skincare status and hefty price tag.

Over the past 17 years, this humble-looking bottle of serum has risen through the skincare ranks to earn itself a glowing reputation as one of the best vitamin C serums that money can buy. It’s caught the attention of dermatologists, skin experts and beauty editors alike without any millennial pink packaging or Insta-worthy aesthetics. This can only mean one thing—the stuff inside the bottle means serious business.

With a concoction of active ingredients, this formula doesn't waste any time. It gets straight to work on your skin doses of vitamin C, vitamin E, and ferulic acid to leave it plump and glowy.

The need to know

• Type of vitamin C: L-ascorbic acid
• Strength: 15%
• Additional ingredients: 1% vitamin E and 0.5% ferulic acid
• Bottle type: Dropper
• Sizes available: 30ml
• RRP: $169/£150

A beauty expert's honest review of the SkinCeuticals CE Ferulic serum

My Imperfect Life beauty editor, Aleesha Badkar, who has tried dozens of vitamin C products, explains why this is still her number one...

There are no chic gold lids, monochrome designs, or holographic finishes here; SkinCeuticals CE Ferulic is all about the formula. It screams practical with its plain, brown bottle and prescriptive branding, and this simple, to-the-point design is what initially instills trust in the product. But the dark bottle is much more than just a pointer of the product’s stern nature.

Vitamin C serums aren’t the most reliable in terms of longevity, due to the ingredient’s tendency to oxidize. This occurs when vitamin C—especially at higher concentrations—is exposed to light and air. The exposure can destabilize the formula, rendering it ineffective (you can usually tell when this has happened as the product will oxidize and turn brownish in color).

Although CE Ferulic, as a vitamin C product, is definitely a candidate for this, the darker packaging helps to keep light and heat out. I’d also suggest keeping this in a darker corner of your dressing table and making sure you screw the cap back on tightly as an extra precaution. Make sure you store it in a cool, dark, and dry place, keep the lid off for a minimal amount of time, and always screw the lid back on tightly to delay oxidization for as long as possible. 

Ingredients—what's in the SkinCeuticals CE Ferulic Serum?

First and foremost, SkinCeuticals CE Ferulic contains a 15% concentration of L-ascorbic acid, aka pure vitamin C. Widely recognized as the most powerful topical form of vit. C, this is one of the most effective ingredients for tackling dark spots, uneven skin tone, dullness, fine lines and loss of firmness. I know, quite the skillset. 

Then comes the alpha-tocopherol, more commonly known as it's named on the bottle, vitamin E. Not only is this a great topical antioxidant, protecting the skin from harmful free radicals, but it supports the stability of the L-ascorbic acid—vitamin C is a notoriously unstable ingredient and formulas have a tendency to oxidize. It also tackles dry skin by regulating sebum production.

And of course, all this is supercharged with the addition of skincare powerhouse ferulic acid. A plant-based antioxidant, ferulic acid works to further stabilize both vitamin C and vitamin E for a more balanced formula that is less likely to oxidize. It also comes with all the protective antioxidant powers you would expect, as well as the capacity to tackle dark spots, redness, and signs of aging. It does have a slightly off-putting salty smell, not unlike a city street hot-dog cart, but the luminosity it achieves is worth putting up with!

How easy is SkinCeuticals CE Ferulic to use?

One sticking point of this particular SkinCeuticals vitamin C serum is that it’s not the easiest to apply because of its very runny formula. Although this speaks to the quality of the formula (there are clearly no filler ingredients), you have to be very careful while applying to avoid it dripping it down your wrists and wasting product.

That said, the instructions do stipulate squeezing 4-5 drops into the palm of your hand and then applying with your fingertips. I found the easiest (and most economical) way to apply CE Ferulic is to touch your palms together to distribute the formula evenly, then press it into your cheeks, forehead and co., before using fingertips to softly pat it into the skin. This takes some getting used to, though, and I did find the odd few drops escaped my fingers.

When should you apply SkinCeuticals CE Ferulic?

The age-old question: is vitamin C better in the morning or night? There's no reason it can't be applied at either time of day, but, because of its protective antioxidant benefits, I usually apply it in the morning. As for when to use it in your skincare routine order, a good rule is to apply your product from thinnest to thickest consistency—so I personally use this at the start of my routine as it's very thin.

When it comes to active skincare, it’s always best to leave some time after application before moving onto subsequent layers. We’d recommend leaving at least 10 minutes (time permitting of course) to really let the ingredients work on your skin without being diluted by other elements. You can then go in with a mist to create a base for your hydrating serum before patting that in on top. If you don’t have the time to spare, we’d skip the mist step when using this so that the serum isn’t diluted, and always make sure to pat in your next step so that the C E Ferulic isn’t wiped off at all. 

When it comes to active skincare, it’s always best to leave sometime after application before moving onto subsequent layers. I'd recommend leaving at least 10 minutes (time permitting of course) to really let the ingredients work on your skin without being diluted by other elements. You can then go in with a mist to create a base for your hydrating serum before patting that in on top. If you don’t have the time to spare, skip the mist step when using this so that the serum isn’t diluted, and always make sure to pat in your next step so that the C E Ferulic isn’t wiped off at all. 

SkinCeuticals CE Ferulic Serum results

It’s a bold claim, but I would go as far as to say that I’ve never seen results quite like this from any other serum. In just a matter of days, my dark spots and pigmentation had faded completely and there was a subtle glow to the skin that I’ve only ever been able to achieve with carefully considered make-up.

It even leaves an almost airbrushed look in its wake that has given me license to stop trying to scout out mattifying high-coverage non-comedogenic foundations and converted me over to more sheer, lighter coverage formulas, such as my favorite Giorgio Armani Luminous Silk foundation. I’d even go so far as to say that in the BB cream v foundation debate, I'm no longer siding with the latter...

The verdict—is the SkinCeuticals CE Ferulic Serum worth it?

If you've got the budget, yes: SkinCeuticals CE Ferulic is worth every cent (if you're looking for a less expensive option, look to La Roche-Posay Pure Vitamin C10 Serum). I can only imagine how bereft I'll feel once my dropper has squeezed its last... well, drop. It just ticks all the boxes for so many reasons. 

Not only does its thin consistency soak straight into the skin, so you aren't left with skincare or foundation pilling, unlike with some other vitamin C and E serums I’ve come across, and there's no greasy residue after you've applied it. It leaves skin plump and hydrated, with no residual tightness or dryness, and it goes above and beyond when it comes to brightening. I can’t get enough of the almost airbrushed glow it gives us, and it’s truly the only thing I can rely on when I want to nix dark spots or scarring.

To get more use out of it (a bottle will cost you a fair bit of money) I’ve reluctantly resigned to using it only two or three times a week, as this is enough of a top-up to keep the incredible results going. But rest assured, you won't regret adding it to your skincare regime. 

Being Frenshe, Target and Ashely Tisdale's wellness line, is your excuse to indulge in a #SpaNightRoutine. (Not that you needed an excuse!)

Whether you're looking to soak up some fresh, calming aromas with the best scented candles or you're on the hunt for popular perfumes, this collection is all-things zen.

Featuring creams, oils and body washes, to name just a few products, Being Frenshe asks us to take a little rest throughout the day to recharge with something pleasing. We're not sure about you, but the creams in our collection are low in stock, so... 

What is the Being Frenshe Target line?

Founded by Disney alumna Ashley Tisdale, Being Frenshe was a pandemic-born project that asks us to take moments out of our day to unwind. Since scents have the power to affect our mood and connect us to the present, Tisdale wanted to create something that could help our overall wellness, the way lighting candles and cutting fresh flowers did for her. 

"While on my own mental health and wellness journey, I discovered that introducing fragrance into my daily rituals greatly influenced my mood—whether it was to keep me grounded and calm or celebrate my confidence and joy," she said in a statement. "My hope is that these products will support your own self-care rituals—and encourage you to breathe in a moment for you."

After applying hair mist or scrubbing with a body wash, you'll not only enjoy the fragrances but feel good knowing the line consists of vegan beauty products, cruelty-free and paraben-free products. We're on board already!

What does the Being Frenshe collection include?

Haircare

• Being Frenshe Body & Hair Radiance Oil
• Being Frenshe Nourishing Hair Mask
• Being Frenshe Hair, Body & Linen Mist 

Skincare

• Being Frenshe Hand Serum
• Being Frenshe Milky Body Lotion
• Being Frenshe Glow On Perfume Oil 
• Being Frenshe Renewing Body Wash
• Being Frenshe Multi-Tasking Body & Scalp Scrub
• Being Frenshe Soothing Body Serum Stick

Bath products

• Being Frenshe Reset Candle
• Being Frenshe Milky Bath Bomb
• Being Frenshe Revitalizing Bath Powder

Being Frenshe scents

• Solar Fleur: a refreshing mix of bright bergamot, dewy orange blossom, coconut orchids and sandalwood
• Lavender Cloud: a fusion of fresh lavender, milky sandalwood and sweet cardamom
• Cashmere Vanilla: a warm and cozy vanilla with notes of toasted jasmine rice, warm amber and creamy musk
• Bergamot Cider: sparkling bergamot with a hint of fresh ginger, blooming wildflowers and cedarwood
• Citrus Amber: a vibrant sparkling lemon with zesty clementine, orange blossom and golden amber

What are the best Being Frenshe products to buy?

Hand Serum in Solar Fleur

A new staple in my purse, the Solar Fleur hand serum has become one of those items I won't leave home without. It's sweet-smelling, nourishing and the perfect pick-me-up throughout the day when I am craving a refresh. The only downside is that the application can feel a tad greasy—but that sensation won't last long. 

• View at Target for $7.99

Body & Hair Radiance Oil in Lavender Cloud

Hydrating and versatile, the lavender-scented body and hair oil is a go-to after hopping out of the shower, but like hand serum, it'll feel greasy until it settles into your skin. It's a bit pricer in comparison to the rest of the collection, but the bottle size itself is far more generous than its counterparts. So at the end of the day, it'll make the decision at checkout far easier. 

• View at Target for $16.99

Glow On Perfume Oil in Citrus Amber

Citrus Amber is sweet, refreshing and not too overpowering—it's just the perfect touch. However, the sweet scent does have us tap into a hygge state of mind, so I'm saving it for the cold-weather months and when I find myself a new sweater. Though you might need to reapply at some point during the day, you won't mind—the bottle itself is easy to store and fits perfectly in pocketbooks and luggages alike.

• View at Target for $14.99

Renewing Body Wash in Bergamot Cedar

Customers love the revitalizing feeling after rinsing off with Being Frenshe's body wash, but this product is on the higher end of the pay scale in comparison to others. The scent is definitely worth it, though.

• View at Target for $10.99

Reset Candle in Solar Fleu

This sweet-smelling, confidence-boosting scent will fill your abode with a dose of sunshine and summer. I wish the fragrance was a bit more potent so I could soak up more of its cool, refreshing aroma from a distance—it didn't necessarily travel as far throughout my apartment as I'd hoped, but I do look forward to making this a repeat buy when I'm at Target. And I'll likely snag a Citrus Amber candle since we're in the midst of cozy season. (You can never be too prepared.) 

• View at Target for $13.99

Hair, Body & Linen Mist in Cashmere Vanilla

Warm and cozy, this hair, body and linen mist is multipurpose and begs for a second purchase. Like the Citrus Amber perfume, I find this to be a more appropriate pick for the winter.

• View at Target for $14.99

If there’s one beauty brand that makes sun protection fun, it’s Supergoop. With its punchy yellow packaging and truly innovative formulas, it's a must for any SPF devotee or those just starting to get into it. 

One of the best sunscreen for face buys, Unseen Sunscreen is probably Supergoop’s most raved about offering—a clear, mattifying gel that’s been a savior for those with deeper skin tones struggling to find an SPF that won’t make them ashy. For hot and sweaty days at the beach, the Play SPF 50 range has a lotion (that also comes in a big half-liter bottle) and an easy-to-reapply aerosol spray and mousse. That’s not to forget the setting powder in multiple shades, face mist, glossy lip balms, eyeshadows, and eye creams—all with at least SPF 40 and above.

And for an added hit of radiance, Glow Screen is a firm no-makeup favorite thanks to its pearlescent sheen that adds a little bit of coverage—similar to one of the best BB creams, CC creams, or tinted moisturizer, but with SPF 30. It’s beautiful, but definitely for a limited range of light to paler olive skin tones. With the recent addition of its Golden Hour shade for lighter brown or dark olive tones, more people can now jump on the Glow Screen hype.

Meet the tester

A beauty editor's honest review of Supergoop Glowscreen Golden Hour

Ingredients—what's in the Supergoop Glowscreen Golden Hour

The SPF40 formula has hyaluronic acid to hydrate, sea lavender, niacinamide to even out skin tone and control oil, vitamin B5 to plump and condition, and cocoa peptides to protect.

The finish is light and sheer, with a natural dose of bronze shimmer to illuminate the skin.

Application—How to apply the Supergoop Glow Screen Golden Hour

The recommended amount of sunscreen to use for the face is a teaspoon's worth, or two finger lengths. I blended it into my skin and onto my neck, using my fingers to warm the formula up—not that this was needed thanks to its light texture.

It can be topped up during the day if you’re going to be in direct sunlight for more than a couple of hours, and blended fine over the original application.

The verdict—Is the Supergoop Glow Screen Golden Hour worth it?

The formula of Golden Hour feels exactly the same as the original Sunrise shade—the only difference is the slightly deeper, more bronze hue. It instantly added a subtle veil of coverage across my red areas and darker under-eyes without looking like makeup. My usual favorite skin/makeup hybrid products are By Terry’s CC Serum in Sunny Flash, Victoria Beckham Beauty’s Priming Moisturiser in Golden, and Drunk Elephant’s D-Bronzi Drops, all of which are quite similar to Golden Hour in finish, but each with different lasting powers as the day goes on. 

Golden Hour wore well for maybe three or four hours before the glow really started to intensify as my natural oiliness kicked in. My skin looked really healthy and luminous from a distance or on camera at this point, but up close or zoomed in, the added luminosity seemed to accentuate any uneven texture and had settled into some very fine lines and my eyelid creases. On one occasion I applied makeup on top and, despite everything blending perfectly and not pilling, the shininess of my face looked a bit garish alongside blusher and eyeshadow towards the end of the day.

The color itself matched my skin tone well and, once blended out, was surprisingly sheer. However, I had a suspicion that after a few days on the beach, my face would have tanned too much to be such a good match with Golden Hour, and anyone with deeper skin than mine might have the same issues that I have with the Sunrise shade. To test this, I tried it out on friends whose skin tones vary from medium brown to deep, and it actually had such a sheer finish that it didn’t look too pale or ashy on them at all. It gave such a lovely luminosity across all their skin tones but didn’t alter or deepen the tone—like it would on someone with paler skin who might rely on fake tan to bronze. 

As a lover of dewy, natural-looking makeup and the entire 'clean girl’ aesthetic for that matter, I just had to try out TikTok's viral e.l.f Halo Glow Liquid Filter and it's truly changed my makeup game and saved me a small fortune in the process...

Right now, the trendy look is dewy, Hailey Bieber-Esque glazed foundation looks and to achieve this look, liquid highlighters and glow-enhancers have become a must-have. Perhaps the first of its kind to really burst on the scene was Charlotte Tilbury's Hollywood Flawless Filter, which triples as a foundation, highlighter and primer—but now a new glow giver has entered the chat—and TikTok reckons it's the ultimate swap.

Yes, I'm talking about the e.l.f Halo Glow Liquid filter, which you'll no doubt have seen all over your social feeds. To define this product, think of a concealer that while making your skin look flawless, also nourishes and hydrates your skin—giving you a fresh, natural glow. It's also jam-packed with some of our favorite ingredients, from hyaluronic acid to squalane and has exclusively five-star reviews.

But is this hit glow booster really worth the hype and more so, is it worth retiring your luxury products for? Here's my honest verdict, plus a rundown on its formula and how to apply it...

What does the e.l.f Halo Glow Liquid Filter do? 

As mentioned, Tiktoker's are comparing this complexion liquid to the Charlotte Tilbury Hollywood Flawless Filter—which is high praise indeed—as it works as both a foundation and as a glowy filter-like highlighter.

e.l.f says it leaves you with a soft-focus-like filter on your skin IRL and describes it as a skincare-makeup hybrid. The best thing about it though is its versatility! 

You can use it in four ways, either wear it alone, mixed with your fave non-comedogenic foundation, under your makeup like a primer, or on top as a highlighter. And regardless of how you use it, your skin will take on that dewy, healthy look, which is definitely the aim of the game right now. 

• View at e.l.f in the US
• View at e.l.f in the UK

So far it’s already a winner in the Beautyverse—especially since it’s under $15, unlike some of its competitors…but how does it really compare?

My verdict on the e.l.f Halo Glow Liquid Filter

Personally, I love a dewy, natural makeup look—my makeup routine consists of a glow filter, foundation, concealer on my under eyes, powder, blush, blush and more blush—finished off with a liquid highlighter, mascara and some brow gel. 

My goal is a glow for the gods which I can definitely say I achieved with the e.l.f Halo Glow. I applied it like a primer for my foundation, dotting it onto my cheekbones, nose bridge, forehead and chin.

I loved the fact that the doe-foot was larger than others I've tried—it was easier to apply and didn't require me to go back to the bottle for a second helping. It blends beautifully (though it does take longer to perfect as the shade I used had a more orangey tinge) but my foundation did melt into it and crucially, I don't get foundation piling. Instead, I'm left with a dewy, healthy-looking base that looks like my skin but way better. Even when I add powder there is no cakiness and the glow still shines through.

As e.l.f claims, it can also be used to highlight, I also applied it on my cheekbones and nose with the help of a beauty blender and honestly it looks *chefs kiss*. It's so subtle but radiant—ideal if you're not a fan of glitters or really pigmented highlighters.

The only slight hang-up I have with this product is that it's slightly orangey, despite me using the fairest, coolest shade—but once it's blended out and paired with a foundation this is no longer an issue.

e.l.f Halo Glow Liquid Filter VS Charlotte Tilbury's Hollywood Flawless Filter

I feel the need to state that I am a die-hard fan of Charlotte Tilbury, I shamelessly buy every viral product of hers when my bank balance allows and have used the Flawless Filter religiously since it first came out. 

Therefore I do not say the following lightly and while it hurts my soul slightly—I must tell my fellow budgeting beauty lovers that I could barely tell the difference between them.

Need evidence? In this picture, I am wearing e.l.f's glowy offering on the right and Charlotte Tilbury's on the left...

To really push each product to its glowy limits, I applied them as both primers and highlighters, on one side of my face. The results are a dreamy finish with no discernable differences. The Flawless filter is perhaps slightly shinier, but overall the effect is the same and the formulas both feature yummy skincare ingredients like squalene and glycerin and give the skin a radiant but subtle look.

Though there are some differences worth noting, the first; Charlotte Tilbury's Filter has a larger shade range and the second is of course the price point. 

The Hollywood filter will set you back $44 /£36, while the e.l.f halo glow will only cost you $14/ £14 for the same amount of product.  As far as I'm concerned, the value of the e.l.f glow booster is hard to ignore, especially when it leaves your skin comparably glowy and is similarly versatile. 

The packaging is also a major point in e.l.f's favor. Anyone who has used the Charlotte Tilbury filter will know that while it has a pretty, gold lid and glass bottle, after time the writing on it rubs off. If you use a lot of cream products you will soon find that the red lettering transfers onto your hands and sometimes even your cheek. Not ideal when you've both just completed your makeup and dropped $40 on it. I have not found this to be an issue with e.l.f's...

So, in conclusion, TikTok is right once again. If you want that glass-like skin look, you cannot go wrong with the e.l.f Halo Glow Booster. It's the perfect product for glazed skin, especially if you're on a budget...though you might have to patiently wait for it to come back in stock...

What are shoppers saying about the e.l.f Halo Glow Liquid Filter?  

If my word isn't enough to convince you, just peruse some of these fellow five-star reviewers: One happy shopper said, “I am beyond stunned. I have the charlotte tilbury flawless filter. and did a side-by-side comparison on my face. I cannot spot a difference! It made my skin glow and I felt gorgeous. This is beyond worth it for the price. GET IT AS SOON AS IT GETS BACK IN STOCK BABES!!"

While another dubbed it a ‘Holy Grail’ product, before saying, ”This product did not disappoint! WOW, I absolutely love it. It goes on super creamy and feels hydrating on the skin. This is my new makeup bag staple. I have already told all my friends to buy this as well!!”

And of course, if you need more visuals, the consensus on TikTok is much the same, with videos racking up millions of views and likes for their first impressions of the new must-have glow filter...

Topicals caused quite the stir almost as soon as it launched back in 2020, thanks to its skin-saving formulas housed in psychedelic packaging that everyone wanted to include in their skincare routine. It started with just two products in the lineup that were soon all over TikTok and Instagram. 

Tubes of Faded—a gel packed with kojic and azelaic acids, plus melatonin to help clear hyperpigmentation—were posted alongside dramatic before and after images, with some claiming it had gotten rid of dark marks and scars that had stubbornly stuck around for years in a matter of weeks. 

And as for Like Butter, a sumptuous leave-on mask that uses centella asiatica, turmeric, and antimicrobial Chinese rhubarb root to calm plus evening primrose and shea to nourish, its superpowers for healing eczema too went viral. 

Since, aerosol versions of both products have launched as well as High Roller, a rollerball liquid that clears up ingrown hairs with zinc PCA, AHAs and BHAs. And the latest addition? A promise to fix our bumpy skin woes.

• View at London Loves Beauty in the UK

A beauty editor's honest review of the Topicals Slather Exfoliating Body Serum

Ingredients—What's in the Topicals Slather Exfoliating Body Serum?

The body serum is a blend of powerful actives to resurface skin and unclog pores. The main star is an encapsulated (meaning its efficacy is preserved until it makes contact with the skin) retinol, which has been custom-blended to ensure the high strength is applied at lower concentrations for the most effective, gradual results. Retinol is a hero for kickstarting the skin’s natural processes, like collagen production and shedding dead skin into gear, to improve its texture and suppleness.

Next is urea, a humectant and emollient, drawing water from the environment into the skin while softening and conditioning it. Its main job in this serum, however, is to act as a keratolytic agent to slough away any build-up of dead skin while helping the skin underneath retain water for moisture. Alongside this is squalane, an oil derived from olives that closely matches the sebum our own bodies produce for natural conditioning.

Lastly, we have lactic and glycolic acids to resurface the skin with each use. Glycolic acid is one of the stronger AHAs and can sometimes cause a reaction in more sensitive skin types, or have adverse effects in deeper skin tones. However, the fact that skin is thicker on our bodies means you can give it a try even if glycolic doesn’t usually have a place in your facial skincare routine. The formula is described as safe for those with hyperpigmentation (and keratosis pilaris, of course). 

Application—How to apply the Topicals Slather Exfoliating Body Serum

The serum is more on the runny, milky side rather than creamy, so it shoots out of the tube fairly quickly. Just one or two spurts is enough to cover the entire body and to add a little more to problem areas, and the texture means that a little goes a very long way – so definitely don’t overshoot it. The formula is scent-free, so no risk of irritation if you’re sensitive to fragrance.

I used it 3-4 times a week after a shower, sometimes after I had scrubbed and other times when I had used a softer sea sponge, to see if there was any difference in results (there wasn’t, I just had fewer dry patches after the stronger scrubbing sessions). For such a light texture, I was surprised at how supple and softened my skin felt immediately after using, with a slight glow to show it was properly moisturized. This lasted for several hours and I didn’t feel the need to layer a body oil on top as I usually would. I always followed up the next day with SPF on my body to protect the renewed skin, as I would on my face.

The verdict—Is the Topicals Slather Exfoliating Body Serum worth buying?

Over time my skin did seem to be doing a better job at maintaining its hydration levels, didn’t feel so dry and tight after showering, and overall felt more strengthened. It seems to do a better job than my usual routine of scrubbing at dry patches, then layering thick emollients on top in the hopes of keeping flakes at bay. 

The KP seems like it’s starting to clear up gradually, but after trialing for just a week I didn’t have unrealistic expectations. I’m anticipating that with prolonged use over the next couple of months, it’ll do a great job at keeping my skin cell turnover functioning as normal. The light texture also makes it perfect for hotter climates as it sinks into the skin instantly, but the one downside is that it can only be applied at night due to the presence of retinol.

I think it’s definitely worth the price, which isn’t really expensive when you compare it to other KP-specific products from brands like Ameliorate, body retinols, and even some of the best retinol serums for the face. If you’re after an overall marathon skin conditioning rather than just a quick moisturizing fix, I would definitely recommend adding it to your lineup.

• View at London Loves Beauty in the UK

When it comes to skincare routines—the sheer amount of steps, products and brands can be overwhelming. Sometimes you just want to know exactly which is the best hyaluronic acid serum, or which Korean beauty product will work best for your skin type. Which is sometimes why simplicity is key. Enter the new gel cleanser from WAKE, a basic, everyday cleanser designed to gently exfoliate and clean your face—without all the fuss.

Finding the right cleanser for your skin can be difficult, as, often it can seem like a throwaway part of your routine—because you wash it on, and almost immediately off again. But, as I have recently discovered, your facial wash can actually be the root of a lot of your skin issues and, when you’re using the right one, it can make a huge difference.

Before using WAKE, I always had dry skin around my nose, cheeks and under-eyes, I would experience foundation piling and sometimes an odd, bumpy texture on my skin's surface. No serum or moisturizer seemed to soothe my stressed-out skin—now it’s obvious that I was using a cleanser that was too harsh for my skin, leaving it stripped and dull-looking.

Now I can safely say those skin complaints are a thing of the past and while I still don’t have jello skin—I still have a lot of good info to share about this new addition to the Wake Family, but first, allow me to overshare about my skin type…

What is my skin type?

I have been blessed with fairly clear skin, minus the occasional hormonal breakout and some stubborn blackheads on my nose and chin. I do however have very sensitive skin and suffer from dryness and redness. Trying new products can be a bit of a minefield for me—either my skin loves it, or it really doesn’t and it makes me pay for it...for days.

I keep my skincare products pretty simple, often preferring a foaming cleanser—though many I have tried have left my skin very stripped, so I was slightly apprehensive about WAKE’s new gel-to-foam cleanser.

Wake facial cleansing gel review

Whats in the Wake facial cleansing gel?

So first things first, let’s talk about the formula…

The ingredient list is fairly simple (which is a good thing, in my opinion), it includes glycerin, citric acid which helps to even skin tone and aloe vera to refresh and soothe the skin. Plus it's paraben-free, sulphate-free, and cruelty-free.

I’d also like to take a minute to say that I’m really here for WAKE’s brand ethos—their products are all-natural, ocean-friendly and where possible, their packaging is 100% recyclable. They're a small brand wanting to make a big difference. Who doesn’t love that?

• View at Wake in the US
• View at Amazon in the UK

My verdict on the Wake facial cleansing gel

Now onto the cleanser—I really like it, not only did it open my eyes to how stripping my now-retired cleanser was, but it has left my skin feeling so soft, and healthy.  It doesn’t really have a fragrance, it smells fresh—similar to how a lot of CeraVe products products smell.

The formula lathers up quickly with just a small amount of water and feels so soft on the skin. Despite its light texture though, it really feels like it’s cleaning my face—especially if I’ve been lazy with removing my makeup.

While I wouldn't say my pores look minimized, my overall complexion is clearer and brighter and my skin actually looks hydrated for the first time, maybe ever. After four weeks of use, I have no dry patches, nor any redness and without makeup, my skin has a bit of a glow.

The description does promise that the cleanser will help with my blocked pores, so perhaps with even more use they will start to shrink but if you’re looking for an immediate solution, this cleanser might not be for you as it does seem to be very gentle.

If you’re a fellow sensitive skin sufferer though, it’s definitely worth a try—especially if you experience ‘winter skin.’

This cleanser will perfectly slot into your everyday routine—and it is great to pair with another cleanser if you prefer to give your skin a double-whammy. I’ll definitely be repurchasing!

I tried the new Coco & Eve Sweet Repair hair mask that promises to restore chemical and color-damaged hair and these are my honest thoughts.

If you don’t know, Coco & Eve is a cult-favorite beauty brand that does all things hair care and even tanning products. The brand is known for its delicious scents and clean, dreamy ingredients and has now introduced a new mask into its haircare family.

Meet the Coco & Eve Sweet Repair mask, that’s formulated with Biometric ceramides, Hyaluronic acid and packed full of fruity goodness. 

And while the packaging and scents promise all good things, I have been putting it to the test for weeks and can confidently say—I’m in love. But before I get into my review, let's talk about the formula and my hair type…

Coco & Eve Sweet Repair hair mask review

What’s in the Sweet Repair Mask and how do you use it?

The mask is formulated with Biomimetic Ceramide, to reinforce and smooth hair fibers as well as Hyaluronic Acid to hydrate and nourish the hair and a Vegan Keratin Complex—to strengthen your locks. It also features a mix of Balinese Fruits, including Banana, Avocado and raw Virgin Coconut, hence the dreamy scent.

• View at Look Fantastic in the US
• View at Look Fantastic in the UK

Along with the tasty ingredients, the mask promises to rejuvenate, strengthen and repair hair and is also; sulfate-free, vegan, silicone-free, cruelty-free, toxin-free, gluten-free, paraben-free, ethically sourced and PETA-approved—now that’s a list we like to see!

To use: simply shampoo your hair as normal, then towel dry it. Apply a generous amount of the Sweet Repair mask through your hair—leave for five to ten minutes and then rinse with warm water. Voilà, you’re done.

What’s my hair type?

My hair is relatively thick but sadly quite damaged. I have naturally straight, mousey brown hair but have been dying it since I was a teenager. I was ginger for several years and have now been blonde for two—getting my highlights re-done once every five to six months.

On a good day, my hair feels quite dry and is very tangly, on a bad day—well, I don’t want to talk about it but let's just say it’s not cute…that is until I tried the Sweet Repair mask.

My thoughts on the Coco & Eve Sweet Repair mask

As described, I have a complicated relationship with my hair and have tried pretty much every conditioner and serum to try and make it a little less brittle, to seemingly no avail.  So I wasn’t expecting to love this mask at all, but boy, do I!

This mask is literally a self-care moment in a jar—not only is it adorable (the mask is even pink!) it smells like a summer dream.

It leaves your hair smelling fruity all day, unlike some of the shampoos and conditioners I’ve previously tried—and my hair has never felt softer.

At first, I was hesitant because I’ve always thought hair masks were a bit of a faff, but the beauty of this mask is that you only need to use it one to two times a week to feel its effect. Over the last few weeks, I’ve been using it on a slow Saturday morning and in the evening mid-week when I need a little me-time. 

I am not exaggerating when I say that this mask made my hair the softest it’s probably ever been after my first use. I found it was easier to brush through and it actually stayed soft—for days.

My hair seems less tangly and my ends healthier and overall stronger. Weirdly I’ve also noticed that my hair doesn’t get greasy as quickly as before (this surprised me as I would have thought it would be the other way around.) 

I used to wash my hair every other day but now I feel more confident leaving more days in between—maybe because my hair smells so damn good. 

Another point in its favor is its value for money, a little goes a long way and you do get a lot of product for $30. I have used it more than five times and have barely made an indent.

This mask has really been a haircare gamechanger for me and I can safely say that I’ll be repurchasing this mask over and over again. 

For me, it really did deliver on everything it promised, from strengthening to repairing my color-damaged tresses—I cannot recommend it enough!

US brand Neutrogena is known for its no frills formulas—and their Neutrogena Hydro Boost Supercharged Booster Serum is no different. Its hero ingredient is hyaluronic acid, a naturally occurring sugar that’s found in the body, which holds up to 1,000 times its weight in water. Our bodies naturally carry around 15 grams of hyaluronic acid, which gets recycled every day.

Like all good things, however, our levels of hyaluronic acid deplete as we age, leaving our skin increasingly unable to retain water—cue dry skin peppered with wrinkles. As such, topping it up can be incredibly helpful for maintaining our skin's hydration and elasticity. Thankfully the best hyaluronic acid serums are your skin’s best ally when that starts to happen.  

Neutrogena Hydro Boost Supercharged Booster serum is one of the most affordable options around, so we just had to get our beauty expert Fiona Embleton to put it to the test, to see how well it stacks up in general, and against other popular HA's on the market. See her honest thoughts below...

The need to know

• Best for: dry skin
• Ingredients: Undisclosed hyaluronic acid percentage. Also contains botanical trehalose and vitamin E.
• Aim of the product: To hydrate and protect against free radicals.
• How long it will last: Based on twice daily use, the 30ml bottle should last anywhere between one and two months.
• Texture: Gel texture with subtle sheen and pearl capsules
• Is it scented? Unscented

A beauty editor's honest Neutrogena Hydro Boost Supercharged Booster serum review

Use—how do you use Neutrogena Hydro Boost Supercharged serum?

When it comes to how often you should use Neutrogena Hydro Boost, the brand’s website recommends morning and night, “as per your usual moisturizing routine”. When it comes to your skincare product order, HA's are typically applied after cleansing and toning, and before moisturizing.

On hot summer days, I found myself adding two to three drops to a gel moisturizer to keep my skin hydrated with a light veil of product. I followed their advice and applied it twice a day, and it worked well. At night, I like to apply it straight onto the skin and spend a bit of time massaging it in, for that extra bit of #selfcare.

Experience—how does the Neutrogena Hydro Boost Supercharged serum feel?

Like all hyaluronic acid serums, the Neutrogena Serum Hydro Boost is cool and refreshing to the touch. It has a slightly thicker gel consistency than say, the La Roche Posay’s Hyalu B5 serum, so if you’ve got the time, I’d recommend using it in tandem with a jade roller to de-puff and contour the face too. It's a great option if you don't mind a thicker consistency, but if you're looking for a thinner, more watery option, this might not be the hyaluronic acid for you.

Results—what does Neutrogena Hydro Boost Supercharged serum do?

When writing this Neutrogena Hydro Boost Supercharged serum review, I found it frustrating that there was no information on the amount of hyaluronic acid in the formula, to justify the 24h hydration claim. However, what we do know is that the type of hyaluronic acid this serum deploys into the skin is Sodium Hyaluronate, which plumps up the surface layers of the skin. It also contains botanical trehalose, a water-binding plant sugar, which locks that hydration in. The vitamin E has antioxidant properties to further protect the skin’s delicate barrier, too. 

I noticed that the formula also contains a hint of the illuminating mineral mica, which explains the subtle sheen this serum leaves on the skin. Like all Neutrogena products, the Hydroboost hydrating serum Neutrogena is oil-free and non-comedogenic, so it won't clog pores.

Value—is the Neutrogena Hydro Boost Supercharged serum worth it?

For anyone dipping their toe into hyaluronic acid for the first time, the Neutrogena serum Hydro Boost is a good basic serum that won’t break the bank. However, it’s not one for skincare aficionados, who are used to using actives at high concentrations.

How it holds up

There are other more advanced formulations on the market that cost nearly the same, or a lot less. Perhaps my judgment was clouded by the fact that I’m a big fan of The Ordinary Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5, which at just $7/£6.40 (less than a third of the price) still feels like a more sophisticated formula.

For a start, The Ordinary has harnessed the power of three different types of hyaluronic acid at varying molecular sizes to plump all levels of the skin. It also contains a 2% HA crosspolymer, which is basically a next-generation ingredient for hydrating skin at different depths, while its vitamin B5 additionally enhances surface hydration. All this, compared to Neutrogena’s single use of Sodium Hyaluronate, means this Neutrogena serum falls a bit flat when compared with the rest of the HA market. If you’re willing to spend a bit more, there’s also the L’Oreal Paris Revitalift Filler serum, which has the highest concentration of hyaluronic acid on the drugstore shelf.

My Imperfect Life’s verdict on the Neutrogena Hydro Boost Supercharged serum

In many ways, there’s nothing exceptional about the Neutrogena Hydro Boost
Supercharged Booster Serum—it simply does the job of hydrating skin.

I first used it when I flew to New York for Fashion Week a few years ago. It was snowing heavily and my skin was struggling to adjust as a result of jet lag, freezing temperatures outside and blasts of heat indoors. The Neutrogena Hydro Boost Supercharged Booster Serum made my skin feel more hydrated and softened any lines around the eyes, but even then I couldn’t help but feel that this serum was really designed to treat a 20-something’s skincare concerns. I just felt like I needed something more, especially at night. Plus, if you're into your late 30s/early 40s, when it comes to the hyaluronic acid vs retinol debate, you're probably best using the latter instead.

The vitamin E delivery is probably the product’s most stand out feature. It’s dispensed via the pearls into the serum as you pump it out, maintaining its efficacy until the moment of use.

All in all, this is a good, afforable option if you're in your 20s—but it probably won't cut it if you love your skincare and are a little older.

COSRX is one of those under-the-radar cult beauty brands, but as my COSRX Hydrium Triple Hyaluronic Moisture Ampoule review shows, it’s a brand we need to be shouting about more.

For those in the know, COSRX is probably most famous for its snail mucous serums. But don’t let that put you off! Their HA serum is one of the best hyaluronic acid serums I've ever tried—and it by no means contains any snail by-products. What it does do though, is address the steady decline in our natural production of HA, with a no-BS approach and a hard-working serum that’s also laced with lactobionic acid, a gentle exfoliating ingredient that moonlights as a humectant. One to definitely consider for your skincare routine.

The need to know

• RRP: $26/£20.75
• Best for: Dry, dehydrated skin
• Ingredients: Undisclosed amount of hyaluronic acid. Additionally contains exfoliating lactobionic acid and vitamin B5 to hydrate and act as an anti-inflammatory. 
• Texture: Lightweight texture that’s easily absorbed
• What it aims to do: Expect deep hydration, improved radiance
• How long product lasts: Used twice a day as the third step in a proper skincare product order routine, this 40ml bottle should last around two months
• Is it scented? No added fragrance

A beauty editor's honest COSRX Hydrium Triple Hyaluronic Moisture Ampoule review

Use—how do you use Triple Hyaluronic Moisture Ampoule?

Apply two or three drops onto the face avoiding the eye and mouth area. Unlike a lot of hyaluronic acid serums, which you simply apply to the skin, a few drops of COSRX hyaluronic acid can also be mixed into your regular skincare or poured onto cotton or muslin pads and placed onto the skin.

A cream applied over the top of the pads creates a type of DIY sheet mask, which we love.

Experience—how does the COSRX Triple Hyaluronic Moisture Ampoule serum feel?

COSRX hyaluronic acid is what’s known as a ‘viscous’ moisturizing serum, which means it’s low in density and an especially thin liquid that your skin happily drinks up. 

I love how cool this serum feels on the skin (this would be all the better if you pop yours in a mini fridge for skincare) and the smooth barrier it creates over the surface. I tend to get quite oily skin in the summer months so what I particularly love about the COSRX Triple Hyaluronic Moisture Ampoule is that it doesn’t feel pore-clogging in the slightest. 

Results—what does COSRX Triple Hyaluronic Moisture Ampoule serum do?

Put simply, COSRX Hyaluronic Acid is about deep hydration. To do that, its triple hyaluronic formula ensures moisture trickles through all the different skin layers. If you’re wondering ‘What is triple hyaluronic?’, it basically means that three different types of hyaluronic acid are deployed:

• The first, High Molecular Hyaluronic Acid (aka sodium hyaluronate), creates an invisible protective barrier on the skin’s surface and prevents moisture loss.
• Medium Molecular Hyaluronic Acid soaks into the layer below to plump skin from the inside out.
• Low Molecular Hyaluronic Acid molecules (hydrolyzed hyaluronic acid) are tiny enough to reach the deeper layers, where they bind water to collagen, trapping moisture, and increase skin elasticity.

The formula also boasts exfoliating lactobionic acid, which buffs away dead cells, ensuring there are no roadblocks for the triple hyaluronic acid to reach your deepest skin cells.

Value—is the COSRX Triple Hyaluronic Moisture Ampoule serum worth it?

Even if you take nothing else away from this COSRX Hydrium Triple Hyaluronic Moisture Ampoule review, just know that this serum is 100% worth it. I can’t praise COSRX Triple Hyaluronic Moisture Ampoule enough for making skin feel plumper and juicier. 

There are no questionable ingredients in its list, and it’s a good price point for such a science-driven formula. Every skin type would benefit from using it, especially acne-prone skin, which is often dehydrated and thus experiences higher oil production and blocked pores.

How it holds up

The triple hyaluronic acid formula in the COSRX Triple Hyaluronic Moisture Ampoule is rare for a product in this mid-range price bracket. So it’s a shame that the brand hasn’t disclosed just how high the concentration is. 

La Roche-Posay Hyalu B5 serum similarly contains vitamin B5, but it only uses two types of hyaluronic. For a similar price, Glossier Super Bounce also contains three molecular weights of hyaluronic acid at a high concentration of 2%, alongside vitamin B5—although the formula is more gloopy than COSRX hyaluronic acid, so it doesn’t give you that virtually invisible finish. 

To better the COSRX Triple Hyaluronic Moisture Ampoule formula you’d have to splurge on Youth To The People Triple Peptide and Cactu Oasis Serum. It’s double the price, but packed with four different weights of hyaluronic acid and a triple peptide blend to stimulate collagen production for improved wrinkles, as well as hydration. 

My Imperfect Life’s verdict on the COSRX Triple Hyaluronic Moisture Ampoule serum

When I first read about the COSRX hyaluronic acid in a magazine, the word 'ampoule' made me think that this product came as individual small glass vials. It’s basically a pipette, which I was a little disappointed about as I like expertly measured, pre-dosed products, and thought this product lended itself well to that kind of sciencey delivery system. However, packaging aside, there’s so much to love about this hyaluronic acid.

When it comes to texture, the COSRX Triple Hyaluronic Moisture Ampoule is probably one of my favorite hyaluronic acid serums, as it’s non-tacky and non-greasy from the outset, but there’s no compromise on all-day hydration. 

There’s an immediate difference to your skin when you apply it in terms of plumpness, smoothness and radiance—proof that the three layered hydration barrier is doing its job. In terms of aesthetics, I like how functional this product is. You’re paying for what’s inside, rather than slick packaging. Plus, the fact that the ingredient list is printed at the front of the bottle means you know exactly what you’re buying. 

I’d have no problem recommending the COSRX Triple Hyaluronic Moisture Ampoule to anyone, and I’ll be slathering this on with abandon during the winter months. 

One bottle of L'Oréal Paris Revitalift Filler serum apparently sells every 60 seconds in the US—which is hardly surprising given the tech behind it and the fact that it looks deceptively expensive. So I decided to put this cult product to the test for a L'Oreal Paris hyaluronic acid serum review, to see if it truly lives up to the hype. 

But first, a recap on what hyaluronic acid is. Hyaluronic acid (HA) is a humectant that can hold 1,000 times its weight in water. While it occurs naturally in the body, levels decrease as you get older, leaving skin feeling dehydrated and less firm. This is where a serum that harnesses the power of hyaluronic acid can make a serious difference to cushiony skin and softer-looking lines. When it comes to the skincare product order you should use hyaluronic acid in, it's a good shout to do it as your third step, after cleansing and toning.

The need to know

• RRP: $25.99/£24.99
• Best for: All skin types, but especially those concerned by horizontal forehead lines
• Ingredients: 1.5% hyaluronic acid. Also contains the humectant glycerin
• Aim of the product: Designed to hydrate while ‘filling out’ lines and wrinkles
• How long it lasts: Based on twice daily use, this bottle should last between one and two months.
• Texture: Gel-like
• Is it scented? The formula is fragranced

A beauty editor's honest L'Oréal Paris Revitalift Filler serum review

Use—how do you apply L’Oreal hyaluronic acid serum?

The best hyaluronic acid serums draw moisture from their surroundings, so it’s always best to apply the L’Oreal Paris Revitalift Filler serum immediately after cleansing onto a damp face, otherwise it could end up drying your skin out. 

n terms of how often you should use Revitalift, the brand recommends two to three drops applied to a clean face and neck morning and night. Personally, I used it in the morning followed by day cream and my best sunscreen for face, as it helped to ward off any dryness from my retinol serum overnight. 

Experience—how does the L’Oreal Paris Revitalift Filler feel?

Hyaluronic acid by nature is watery and gel-like in texture, so any serum that features it in high doses will have the same consistency. L'Oreal Paris Revitalift Filler serum is no different and massages easily into the skin.

Yes, it’s scented, but for me that enhanced the pleasure of using the product—rather than being overpowering or unpleasant.

Results—does L’Oreal Revitalift filler work?

The science certainly stacks up. L’Oreal Paris Revitalift Filler serum contains 1.5% hyaluronic acid, which is more than standard drugstore formulations. It also just so happens to be the optimum amount to hydrate skin without causing irritation. 

What’s equally impressive about the L'Oreal Paris Revitalift Filler serum is the inclusion of two types of hyaluronic acid: 0.5% macro acids, which hold 1,000 times their weight in water to hydrate the skin's top layers leaving it looking dewy; and 1% micro acids, tiny hyaluronic acid particles that squeeze into the deeper layers, to plump skin from within.

Value—is the L'Oreal Paris Revitalift Filler serum worth it?

At $26, the serum sits neatly in the mid-price category of hyaluronic acid serums. The glass bottle and pipette elevates the user experience, making the L’Oreal Paris Revitalift Filler serum feel more expensive than it is. 

But if you’re looking for a serum that addresses multiple concerns, include hyperpigmentation, there are other serums available at a similar price point that feature more than just hyaluronic acid alone.

How it holds up

The first week of using this serum reminded me of when I first tried celebrity favourite Dr Barbara Sturm’s Hyaluronic Serum. I liked the texture of the product but unlike hyaluronic acid serums that leave a tacky film over the skin for instant gratification, it absorbed quickly and I panicked that it wasn’t working. While at two different ends of the market price wise (Dr Barbara Sturm’s Hyaluronic Serum costs $300), the same rule applies: stick with it and within a week you can expect more supple skin because the hyaluronic acid is getting to work. Of course, Dr Sturm’s Hyaluronic Serum also contains other powerhouse ingredients such as purslane, an antioxidant and anti-inflammatory—hence the hefty price tag. 

Compared to other drugstore brands, however, L’Oreal Paris Revitalift Filler serum does contain one of the highest concentrations of hyaluronic acid (La Roche-Posay Hyalu B5 only contains 0.3%). But I do find you have to lock that hydration in with one of the best moisturizers for dry skin separately, whereas CeraVe Hyaluronic Acid Serum at just $19, has built-in ceramides, as well as vitamin B5, for additional skin barrier protection. 

My Imperfect Life’s verdict on the L'Oreal Paris Revitalift Filler serum

It’s no secret that I adore hyaluronic acid. It’s my hero ingredient for making skin looking smoother, brighter and generally more healthy. So even though I don’t have dry skin, it’s my insurance policy against sudden changes in temperature or any hormonal shifts that can leave my complexion dull and dehydrated. So is L’Oreal’s Revitalift serum any good? My L'Oreal Paris Revitalift serum review is certainly a glowing one (quite literally). 

Personally I don’t mind that hyaluronic acid is the sole active as it allows me to pair it with other serums—like my best vitamin C serum or a niacinamide top-up— depending on what my skin needs that particular day. Also I know that rather than cocktailing lots of different actives at lower concentrations, this serum contains two scientifically proven types at a high 1.5% dose.

The only thing I take issue with is the word ‘filler’ in the name. I’m not going to tell you that a serum is going to magically improve the look of grooves like an injectable would. But the semantics can be forgiven when the price, the ingredients and the independent clinical results are this good: studies found that after just two weeks wrinkles were reduced by 47%; after six weeks that number goes up to 60%. I’ve been using this serum for just over six weeks and that assessment seems pretty spot on.

It’s rare for a La Roche-Posay Hyalu B5 serum review not to award the product five stars. No wonder given the multi-tasking nature of this serum.

For starters, La Roche-Posay hyaluronic acid specifically targets dehydrated and mature skin, encouraging it to recover its bounce and smoothness. It does this by delivering not one but two different types of hyaluronic acid into the skin to temporarily ‘fill’ lines out—making it one of the best hyaluronic acid serums you can buy.

Other noteworthy ingredients include vitamin B5 to improve skin’s natural repair process, madeccassoside to stimulate collagen production and the brand’s proprietary thermal water to take the sting out of sensitized skin. So here's what happened when we tried this must-have skincare routine addition.

La Roche-Posay Hyalu B5—The Need to Know

Best for: Dehydrated and mature skin

Ingredients: Contains 0.3% hyaluronic acid. Also contains vitamin B5, another hydrating humectant, and madeccassoside to stimulate collagen production.

Aim of the product: To hydrate and improve skin firmness and the look of wrinkles

How long it will last: If you’re applying this serum morning and night, one 30ml bottle should last you at least six weeks.

Texture: Refreshing gel texture

Is it scented? Hypoallergenic but does list ‘parfum’ as the last ingredient

A beauty editor's honest La Roche-Posay Hyalu B5 serum review

Use—How do you use La Roche-Posay Hyalu B5 serum?

Pollution has been shown to tear tiny holes in our delicate skin barrier, causing water to leak out and irritants to creep in. To protect against this type of damage, fill the dropper and apply three to four drops of La Roche-Posay Hyalu B5 Pure Hyaluronic Acid serum onto clean skin.

By day follow with your best vitamin C serum for an added layer of free-radical protection and SPF—you could even use the matching La Roche-Posay Pure Vitamin C10 serum for the best results. At night, apply pre moisturizer, which should contain ceramides to lock in all the hydrating goodness from the serum.

Experience—How does the La Roche-Posay Hyalu B5 serum feel?

Like most hyaluronic acid serums, it has a gel-like texture, which at first touch feels quite sticky before quickly absorbing into the skin. If you have sensitive skin, don’t be put off by the blue bottle—the actual serum is clear so there’s no danger of artificial colors riling your skin.

I also like to keep the La Roche-Posay Hyalu B5 Pure Hyaluronic Acid serum in mini fridge for skincare in the summer months or after a night out as the texture feels delicious when taking down puffiness.

Results—What does La Roche-Posay Hyalu B5 serum do?

In a nutshell, this La Roche-Posay hyaluronic acid has both immediate and long-term effects for dehydrated, mature skin that’s losing volume. Upon application it’s like a tall drink of water that floods skin with moisture, plumping and ‘filling out’ dehydration lines and wrinkles.

With continued use, madeccassoside and vitamin B5 encourage collagen production and aid in the skin’s natural regeneration process for improved firmness, elasticity and less pronounced wrinkles.

It does so by combining two sizes of hyaluronic acid in one formula—the large sodium hyaluronate molecules plump the surface of the skin while small hydrolyzed (broken up) hyaluronic acid molecules bind water to collagen in the deeper layers of skin. The La Roche-Posay Hyalu B5 Pure Hyaluronic Acid serum also includes its proprietary soothing thermal water.

Value—Is the La Roche-Posay Hyalu B5 serum worth it?

For $36.99, this serum isn’t prohibitively expensive, but it is the most pricey hyaluronic acid serum that I’ve tested.

That said, it has a robust formula, the science stacks up and it tackles dehydration, wrinkles and volume loss, which makes La Roche-Posay hyaluronic acid a solid skin care purchase in my books.

How it holds up

Another French skin care brand that also includes thermal water in its hyaluronic acid serum is the Vichy Mineral 89 serum. For me, this serum is better suited to sensitive skin as it only contains 11 ingredients and is unscented. Despite the rigorous dermatological testing behind the La Roche-Posay Hyalu B5, its mild hint of fragrance could still irritate sensitive although the more well-rounded formula, which includes more anti-aging ingredients than the Vichy Mineral 89 serum, is appealing to those who are looking to target hydration as well as loss of firmness.

The biggest difference between the La Roche-Posay Hyalu B5 and The Ordinary Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5 (apart from the price) is the concentration of hyaluronic acid. The Ordinary boasts a massive 2% whereas La Roche-Posay only contains 0.3%.  Given cell renewal slows down with age, the fact that Medik8 Hydr8 B5 Intense also contains gently exfoliating lactic acid gives it an edge when it comes to a hyaluronic acid serum designed for mature skin. This one will cost you around $55, though.

My Imperfect Life’s verdict on the La Roche-Posay Hyalu B5 serum

I’m not going to lie, I’m a big fan of The Ordinary Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5, which is often my benchmark for other skin care formulations. But for me La Roche Posay is the personification of everything that’s amazing about French pharmacy skincare: it’s developed and tested by dermatologists, deploys active ingredients and is kind to your wallet. Basically, it feels very accessible.

I regularly use several products in the line as they slot effortlessly into my routine without causing flare ups and is excellent value for money. When I travelled a lot in my previous job you’d inevitably find a bottle of La Roche-Posay Hyalu B5 serum in my hand luggage (at 30ml it’s ideal) to ward off a Sharpie forehead from all that dry in-flight air. I loved how it immediately imparted a healthy glow despite the jet lag and made lines look more soft focus. But you don’t have to take my word for it.

Trials by the brand are pretty impressive, too—there’s a 24% improvement in elasticity and firmness after four hours and skin is 70% more hydrated. After one month of use, 87% of subjects had a more elastic and even skin tone.

There’s a very good reason hyaluronic acid is beloved by dermatologists and skincare formulators—and in our Vichy Mineral 89 review, we're taking a deep dive into one of the best hyaluronic acid serum options on the market, to help you decide if it's the right choice for you.

In a nutshell, hyaluronic acid (HA) is great at holding on to water and hydrating the skin. However, with age we stop producing as much of this molecule; so you may want to consider applying an HA-laced product like this Vichy serum, to plump the skin and introduce much needed moisture to the surface and deeper layers. 

The beauty of the Vichy Mineral 89 serum is that it is made with just 11 ingredients, so you’re not overloading sensitive skin. 89% of the formula (hence the name) is also given over to thermal water sourced from Vichy, France, which is packed with 15 minerals that are proven to soothe the skin and strengthen its barrier function.  

Vichy Mineral 89 review—the need to know

• Best for: All skin types, especially sensitive skin
• Ingredients: Non-disclosed amount of hyaluronic acid. It also includes 89% mineral-rich thermal water and hydrating glycerin
• Aim of the product: Designed to rehydrate and protect the delicate skin barrier
• How long it will last: Used twice daily, the 50ml bottle should last around two months
• Texture: Lightweight, gel-like texture
• Is it scented? No added fragrance

A beauty editor's honest Vichy Mineral 89 review

Use—how do you use Vichy Mineral 89 serum?

The Vichy Mineral 89 can be applied twice a day after cleansing. Hyaluronic acid plays nicely with most other actives so when it comes to your skincare product order, you can follow with your usual serum if you choose, and then a layer of moisturizer and SPF. 

The brand says you should use Vichy Mineral 89 on dry skin, but dermatologists often recommend applying a hyaluronic acid serum to damp skin because you’re giving the HA added water to hold onto, rather than pulling moisture out of dry skin. The formula is safe to use on all skin types, and can be taken up around eyes without causing irritation.

Experience—how does the Vichy Mineral 89 serum feel?

The high thermal water content is reflected most in Vichy Mineral 89’s texture, which feels almost as light as water, making it a winner for both oily skin types, and the rest of us on humid summer days. The fresh gel-like consistency leaves skin feeling slightly tacky the first first few minutes after applying, but this only adds to how instantly hydrated skin feels. 

As the gel dries, it has a pleasing skin-tightening effect, which is particularly noticeable around the eye area and on crow’s feet. The formulation is unscented, making it ideally suited for sensitive skin. Two pumps is all that’s needed morning and night—one for the face and one for the neck and décolleté. I would say, though, that if you want skin care that targets wrinkles or hyperpigmentation, you may want to sandwich another serum between the Vichy Mineral 89 and your moisturizer/SPF.

Results—what does Vichy Mineral 89 do for your skin?

The goal I set myself for this Vichy Mineral 89 review was to see if one application in the morning would live up to the brand’s promise of all-day hydration. I’m pleased to report that it does just that—something I put down to three factors. 

Firstly, the star ingredient in this serum is sodium hyaluronate, a derivative of hyaluronic acid, which has a molecular structure that allows it to really plump up the top layers of skin. Secondly, the formula includes glycerin, another humectant and hyaluronic acid’s budget-friendly cousin. And lastly, as mentioned previously, the Vichy Mineral 89 is packed with Vichy Volcanic Water, the brand’s proprietary ingredient that is clinically proven to strengthen the skin barrier and lock moisture in. For this same reason, it keeps potential irritants such as pollen and pollution particles out, keeping sensitive skin on an even keel.  

Value—is the Vichy Mineral 89 worth it?

Vichy Mineral 89 is a powerful and affordable hydrator. I also like the fact that this drug store product is so well suited to sensitive skin—especially how the thermal water contains zinc, manganese and potassium to take down skin redness and calm irritation. 

On the flip side, the fact that is has 11 ingredients limits how many actives it can actually deploy into the skin. But perhaps those with sensitive skin may not want anything with more ingredients.

How it holds up

As mentioned, apart from hyaluronic acid for hydration, Vichy Mineral 89 is thin on any other benefits. 

La Roche-Posay Hyalu B5 Serum also has a relatively minimalist formula, but delivers results with more than one type and size of hyaluronic acid molecule. It, too, contains calming thermal spring water, but it also has vitamin B5 and madeccassoside to boost collagen production. 

Although it’s more expensive, Drunk Elephant B-Hydra Intensive Hydration Serum additionally delivers provitamin B5 and pineapple ceramides to hold moisture, another hydrating complex in the form of watermelon rind, apple and lentil. It is also free from potentially irritating ingredients such as essential oils, drying alcohols, silicones and fragrance.

My Imperfect Life’s verdict on the Vichy Mineral 89 serum

The first time I used this serum was a few months before writing this Vichy Mineral 89 review. My skin is exceptionally sensitive to retinol serums, but I’m always swung by its promise of improved tone and texture, so I’d gradually been introducing it into my routine. Despite the twice-weekly applications my skin soon felt papery and raw; applying moisturizer only made it sting. The fact that Dr Anjali Mahto, a renowned London dermatologist who I regularly tap up for advice in features, recommends Vichy Mineral 89 was enough for me to get my head out of the gutter and to the drug store. 

I loved the cool gel-like texture and how it left my skin soothed and full of moisture with only a few applications—although I do need to apply another serum over the top to address the horizontal lines that are starting to appear on my forehead and around my eyes.

I also think this serum would be perfect for anyone going through the menopause as skin gets both drier and more sensitive due to hormonal shifts. For those who are used to their hyaluronic acid serum virtually disappearing into their skin, I can imagine the slight tacky residue from Vichy Mineral 89 might be off-putting. 

The glass bottle also doesn’t make it ideal for traveling, but overall, I think this serum is a dream for sensitive skin and unlike most products that cater for this skin type, the packaging actually looks premium on your bathroom shelf.

I tried out Fenty Beauty's newest addition to its skincare collection—meet the new 'Cookies N Clean' Whipped Clay Detox Mask that has taken pride of place in my bathroom cabinet for the last three weeks.

Fenty Beauty, aka Rihanna's beauty line, never really misses—from their dreamy foundations to the Fenty liquid highlighter that puts all other highlighting products to shame. Now not only has RiRi got our makeup routines covered, but she's now coming to our skin's rescue too, from toners to some of the best moisturizers.

The newest addition to the Fenty Skin family is a detox mask with a formula like none other. Say hello to the Cookies N Clean Whipped clay detox mask that I've put through its paces over the last few weeks.

What's my skin type?

As far as my skin type goes, I have combination skin—slightly on the dry side and very sensitive. I am fortunate to have relatively clear skin, minus some very stubborn pores on my nose and chin that don't want to give me a break.

I do however get hormonal breakouts, so I was very excited to try this mask, as I do tend to opt for ones that include clay.

Fenty Cookies N Clean Whipped Clay Mask review

What's in the 'Cookie's N Clean' Whipped Clay Detox mask?

The detox mask features four key ingredients—clay, charcoal, salicylic acid (BHA) and rhubarb and ginger extract. It's designed to deeply cleanse your pores, immediately improve skin texture and fight shine throughout the day. It also claims to not dry out your skin, which is a common issue with clay masks.

Another pro is that the formula is completely cruelty-free, vegan, fragrance-free, non-comedogenic and all those good things! 

• View at Fenty in the US
• View at Boots in the UK

How to Apply the 'Cookies N Clean' mask

The texture of this mask is pretty unique and unlike anything I've personally used before. It's whipped so it feels lightweight and airless—like you're literally applying mousse to your face but what I really loved was the little charcoal beads!

A little goes a long way with this mask. You only need a small scoop on your finger to spread over your T-zone. The mask literally looks like a whipped cookies and cream Hersey bar, the formula is mainly white with little beads of black but as you start to massage the product into your skin, the beads burst and transform the light gray mask into a dark gray.

I loved this, it made applying it so fun and made it feel more like a self-care moment because you need to massage it in order to combine all the charcoal. It doesn't take long but really adds to the experience in my opinion.

Once applied evenly over your face—though being careful to avoid your sensitive undereye areas, the mask will dry. You can leave it on for 10 to 15 minutes and then remove with a damp, warm cloth.

My verdict on the 'Cookies N Clean' Whipped clay detox mask

I can safely say that I will be repurchasing this mask when it runs out, as I am loving it as part of my weekly routine. 

I've been using it as recommended, which is two to three times a week and the biggest pro for me is the value you for money. The amount you get in the pot is worth every penny and you really don't need much for a full-face application. I'd also like to add that the packaging is *chefs kiss* and is proudly sat on my bathroom shelf as part of the permanent decor.

I loved the application process, bursting the charcoal beads as I massaged it over my face was a really lovely touch—it distracted me from all my other worries and let me take two minutes to just focus on a bit of me-time. So if you struggle with that, this DIY-esque mask could be one for you to try.

The texture is comfortable, even when it dries. I could still move my face without feeling like my skin was going to crack and after removal, I did think it left my skin feeling super soft. I also found that it didn't dry out my skin, which is something I often experience with all kinds of masks, so that was a big win for me.

However, after the first two uses, I did find that it made my skin purge slightly, which is common with clay products. My chin was zit city for the next week—but by the fourth use, this seemed to calm down.

That's really all the cons I have to say about this mask, I wouldn't say it transformed my skin but it has improved my overall skin texture and has helped to reduce the appearance of some of my pores. The actual application of this mask is what's really won me over and the fact it didn't leave me with any dry and itchy patches—that's a big deal for sensitive skin sufferers, trust me.

Overall I'd say it's definitely a staple mask for those who love a bit of clay and worth a try for anyone with stubborn blackheads!

Feeling burnt out working from home? Struggling to switch off your mind before bed? Enter: The Calm app. 

The Calm app is one of the best meditation apps in the digital marketplace. It frequently ranks among the most popular—alongside key rival, Headspace—and surpassed a whopping 100 million downloads in 2021.

After being launched out of wellness-loving California in 2016, the Calm app has become an effective all-rounder that’s suitable for both meditation newbies and veterans. It helps you de-stress as well as reduce anxiety, boost productivity, and is a good solution to the problem of how to get better sleep.

Indeed, the Calm philosophy is “mental fitness”—that our brain is a muscle that needs to be regularly flexed in order to build strength and resilience. And through a musical, soothing interface, they guide you every step of the way.

The Calm app is available in the Apple Store and on Google Play. After you’ve downloaded it, you’ll be able to try a “taster” selection of features for free—however, in order to utilize the app in its full glory, you’ll need to subscribe to the “Premium” version. You can try this for free as part of a one-week trial. After this, you’ll need to fork over $14.99 per month, $69.99 annually or $399.99 for a "forever" subscription. However, do note that its monthly and yearly prices can vary greatly depending on whether it’s on special offer.

Everything to know about the Calm app

Design of the Calm app

When I first landed on the app’s homepage I was shocked. Not because I found anything alarming, mind, but because—unlike WhatsApp and Instagram that can instantly trigger a mental spiral of panic and comparison when I go onto their feeds—it made me feel instantly at ease.

The first thing you see is a relaxing blue screen that reminds you to "take a deep breath." You’re then presented with a beautiful image of a lake flanked by snow-tipped mountains and the sound of water gently hitting the shore. Along a horizontal sidebar at the bottom, there are clear icon options directing me to their "Meditate," "Sleep," and "Music" sections. Scroll down on the homepage itself, and there’s a cohort of suggestions—such as the "Daily Calm" meditation narrated by the app’s head of mindfulness Tamara Levitt, and a sleep story read by actor Cillian Murphy.

From the color scheme (predominantly a cerulean blue with lashings of pink and purple that are reminiscent of sunrise and sunset) and the curved edges of the font, the aesthetic result is very (sorry, but it’s true) calming.

Functionality of the Calm app

This is one of the few places the Calm app slips up. It’s not instantly clear where to get started. I scroll down the homepage and am greeted by interesting but unclearly-named categories called "Mental Fitness," "Recent Sparks," and "Quick & Easy." There is also one called "Meditations," which is somewhat confusing—isn’t the whole app essentially meditations?

But once you’ve taken the time to delve around, it’s possible to find exactly what you need. Type “anxiety” into the search bar and it comes up with plenty—but not an overwhelming number—of options. After a week of use, I’d land on the homepage to find all my go-to sessions neatly filed under "Recently Played."

Your profile on the app also keeps a handy track of your total number of sessions, how many “mindful minutes” you’ve accumulated, and your streak of days, which is great for accountability. The aforementioned "Quick & Easy" category—that I had ironically quickly dismissed in a rush to find a sleep meditation—is now one of my favorites (and one I likely may not have found had it not been high on the homepage). The "90-second meditation to calm anger" and "Deep concentration - 2 minutes" are winners if your schedule is busy.

Content on the Calm app

This is where the app really comes into its own. The breadth of meditations is incredible, which means you’ll likely never do the same session twice. My first was a does-what-it-says-on-the-tin "Deep sleep - 15 minutes," but it wasn’t long before—during a stressful afternoon—I found the "Panic SOS - 10 minutes" and, the next day, the highly-motivating "A champion’s mindset" narrated by basketball star LeBron James.

Indeed, the app was quickly changing what I had thought meditation could be used for. The section on "Mental Fitness" taught me that, even if I was having a good day (read: less anxious), I could still check into the app to boost my productivity and focus.

I was a little bemused, however, by the 1 hour 28 minute "Rain on Leaves - Extended Mix," which was—quite literally—the sound of rain on leaves all the way through, that was intriguingly “curated by LeBron”. But it sure did help me meet my deadlines (unlike the 30-minute "Washing Machine" background noise option, but each to their own)!

Features of the Calm app

One thing experts rave about with this app is the fact it educates you on the practice of meditation—crucial, they feel, for getting the full benefits. For example, the "How to Meditate" session is a must-listen if you’re a beginner.

Another clever thing they do is, as well as offering one-off meditations, have a series of meditations that act like courses on a particular topic (I really enjoyed "The Confidence Series"). For those who love to journal, there is a handy "How are you feeling?" quiz to fill out.

But by far my favorite part is the "Mindful Walking," with time options of between five and 30 minutes. As someone who tends to fidget, being on two feet strolling through nature and sunny streets—with a specially designed moving meditation in my ears—helped me wind down most effectively of all.

Effectiveness of the Calm app

I checked into the app on a daily basis for a week, during what happened to be a period full of work stresses and relationship worries. I was highly strung, my mind was constantly whirring and I was struggling to sleep. While the first meditation was hard to give my all to, I quickly began to cherish the minutes in the day when I didn’t need to do anything but close my eyes, breathe and absorb Tamara’s dulcet tones.

That’s the thing—even if you’re working from home alone, checking into the app feels somewhat like a problem shared (and therefore a problem halved). The broad range of specific content made this incredibly easy to do. But equally, with the focus on "Mental Fitness" in addition to issues like depression and insomnia, it rebranded in my mind that meditation isn’t just one activity to invest time in when you’ve reached an anxious, breaking point, but rather something to be checked into on a daily basis.

By day seven, the app had successfully helped me press pause on worrying thoughts so I could view a situation with logic rather than emotions, and had me snoozing for a deliciously refreshing eight hours a night once more.

Calm app summary

At whichever life stage, or headspace, you’re at, there is something in the Calm app that will help you. Sure, you can find meditations for sleep and anxiety for free on YouTube, but this has a variety of expert-led options all packaged up neatly and prettily in one place. (I’d much rather click onto their blue landing page than dodge pop-up ads in a moment of psychological crisis!)

For this reason, it is fantastic for introducing beginners to the practice, and as you progress along your meditation journey, it will also teach you that there are so many ways in which it can help all aspects of your life. As such, I would highly recommend giving the premium version of the app a go (although keep an eye on the annual price to make sure you get the best deal). It may seem like a chunk of money, but it’s far less than a gym membership and your mind is worth just as much investment as your body. For real!

Looking for even more apps to help boost your quality of life? Add these productivity apps, the best sleep trackers and handy money-saving apps to your smartphone STAT!

The Olaplex No 9 serum has finally dropped—but is it just yet another step to add your haircare routine or will it have efficacy of the famous Olaplex No 3?

With the addition of the brand's new No 9 Bond Protector Nourishing Hair Serum you’d be forgiven for thinking that Olaplex is starting to sound like a multi-step Korean skin care regime. You’re not wrong, as scientists are increasingly drawn to the idea of using the same nourishing ingredients on our scalps and strands that give skin care its golden reputation. It’s been dubbed the ‘skinification’ of hair and the fact that No 9 is called a ‘serum’ is proof that Olaplex is on board with this whole trending movement.

Influencer reviews and descriptions on stockist websites such as Cult Beauty definitely make No 9 sound like the GOAT. But does it live up to its big promises? And how does No 9 fit into the Olaplex treatment regime?

• View Olaplex No 9 at Selfridges in the US
• View Olaplex No 9 at Selfridges in the UK

Olaplex No 9: The need to know

RRP: $29.50/£26 for 90ml

Hero ingredients: Bis-aminopropyl diglycol dimaleate, panthenol, hyaluronate, antioxidant algae extract

Product type: Leave-in serum

What it aims to do: Prevent breakage, protect from heat and pollution, detangle

A beauty editor's honest Olaplex No 9 review

Olaplex No 9 Bond Protector Nourishing Hair Serum is the brand’s first leave-in styling serum. It’s credited with controlling frizz, detangling and protecting against both heat and pollution. Like every other product in the line, it contains Olaplex’s hero ingredient, bis-aminopropyl diglycol dimaleate, which is known for repairing damaged hair by fixing the broken bonds. Other noteworthy players on the ingredients list include panthenol and hyaluronate (a form of hyaluronic acid) to deeply hydrate. There’s also antioxidant algae extract, which bonds to wet hair like an invisible shield to block pollutants and neutralize free radicals before they can cause damage.

For me, this last point is No 9’s USP. Hair picks up more pollution than your skin because it covers a larger area and toxic particles get trapped between strands. These particles then create free radicals that destroy hair bonds and proteins causing tangles, split ends, breakage and hair that’s hard to style. So protecting against this one element can set you on the right path for a good hair day.

First impressions

I rarely stop eulogising about how transformative Olaplex is. My incredible colorist at London's Hersheson’s religiously mixes No 1 into my color before adding a topcoat of No 2 at the basin to prevent any chemicals in the bleach doing their worst. Olaplex No 8 and No 3 both then fit effortlessly into my weekly masking routine. 

But if I’m honest, No 6, another leave-in product, was the only one of the Olaplex bunch that I didn’t get on with. I loved the sound of a smoothing cream to tame flyaways but it was too heavy for my fine hair, which hung like greasy curtains around my face. I half expected a similar story with No 9, but I couldn’t have been more wrong. I put it down to the jelly-like formula, which has the same lightweight consistency as the skincare serums on my bathroom shelf and absorbs just as easily. Given the best moisturizer for oily skin tends to be a non-occlusive gel, the same logic applies to fine hair, which also tends to be on the greasy side.

Results

My hair felt super soft after blow-drying and it cut down the amount of time I needed for heat styling. A more cumulative effect was that my hair was much easier to comb through after washing with my normal shampoo and conditioner. Rather than fighting through tangles I only needed a few gentle passes with a wide toothed comb.

It’s also worth noting that the ‘invisible shield’ No 9 forms on the hair is just that: invisible. My pet hate is feeling like my hair is coated in product—especially silicones, which may provide slip but also make hair feel lacquered into place. No 9 is silicone free and genuinely feels like nothing when you run your fingers through your hair.

How to apply

Rake a pump or two of the jelly-like serum through towel-dried hair (on fine hair like mine I’d recommend using a dime-size amount).

Use a wide-tooth comb to evenly distribute it through the hair then air-dry or blow-dry.

Value for money

OK, at $28 (£26) it’s more expensive than drugstore leave-in styling products. But I think there are solid reasons to invest in No 9.

A little goes a long way—after two weeks of use, I’ve barely made a dent in the product. You’re getting an all-in-one detangler, heat protector and repair product, which means you’re saving on other hair care. The anti-pollution technology means all hair types will also be more manageable. Plus the airless pump ensures you’re getting the most out of the bottle. So actually, for me, No 9 really is the GOAT.

• View Olaplex No 9 at Selfridges in the US
• View Olaplex No 9 at Selfridges in the UK

In need of a new sunscreen? Our beauty expert's Kiehl's Ultra Light Daily UV Defense Aqua Gel SPF50 review is here to deliver everything you need to know about this best-selling sunscreen, as well as why it's one of our favorites on the market. 

We're well-versed that SPF has to be worn every single day, and so having one of the best sunscreens for face in one's skincare routine is non-negotiable. 90% of skin aging is caused by the harmful UV rays that are emitted by the sun, so wearing sunscreen every day of the year not only reduces the damage, but it also helps reduce the risk of developing skin cancer, too. 

Although there was once a time when SPF was pore-clogging, greasy, and generally unpleasant to wear, formulas and technology have come a long way, and it’s now a much easier product to slip into your daily routine. This product is a top-tier example of combining an aesthetically pleasing product with hardworking, protective ingredients.

The need-to-know

• RRP: $39 / £33
• Best for: All skin types, including sensitive or reactive
• SPF: 50, PA++++
• Key ingredients: Vitamin E
• USP: Lightweight pollution protection
• White cast: No

A beauty editor's Kiehl's Ultra Light Daily UV Defense Aqua Gel SPF50 review

The ingredients

The Ultra Light Daily UV Defense Aqua Gel is part of a fairly extensive sun protection range from Kiehl’s and it prides itself on being suitable for all skin types, including those who have sensitive or reactive skin. It’s a non-comedogenic formula which means it won’t clog pores and it’s also fragrance-free and has an extremely lightweight texture.

It has a sun protection factor (SPF) of 50, which is highly recommended to wear every single day by dermatologists and skin experts alike. It also provides high protection against UVA rays (PA++++)—which are the ones that cause premature aging in the skin. They are also able to pass through clouds and windows, and are the reason you should ensure you’re wearing sunscreen every day of the year, even if it’s not sunny outside. 

In addition to the UVA and UVB protection, it also has the added bonus of antioxidants, including vitamin E, which work to defend skin against pollution and other environmental aggressors that can damage the skin.

Use: How do you use Kiehl's Ultra Light Daily UV Defense Aqua Gel SPF50?

As mentioned, this lotion is really lightweight and feels virtually invisible once applied. It’s really easy to use either in your bathroom when applying your morning skincare routine or while you’re on the go, doesn’t leave any sticky or oily residue behind. Instead, it will make you wonder why you didn’t start wearing SPF sooner.

Like all sunscreens, it’s best applied as part of your morning skincare routine; it should be the last product you apply before makeup (ideally you would cleanse, use an antioxidant—like vitamin C—then if your skin needs it, one of the best face moisturizers before finally applying SPF). It’s worth waiting a few minutes to allow each layer to properly absorb which helps them work to their full potential so they’re as effective as can be.

Experience: What is the Kiehl's Ultra Light Daily UV Defense Aqua Gel SPF50 like to wear?

The bottle takes the form of a rectangular-shaped tube. It’s easy to use and the product squeezes out nicely, which makes it a good format for ensuring you’re able to quickly apply the right amount (which experts say should be around one shot glass full for your face and neck, or one whole tablespoon). The flexible plastic also means that, if necessary, you can cut the tube in half when it’s almost empty in order to make sure you use up every last drop. Both the 30ml and the 60ml sizes are relatively small, too, meaning they’re easy to travel with and are suitable sizes to go into your hand luggage if necessary. 

Despite the fact this product has ‘gel’ in its name, it’s actually more of a cream texture, but don’t let that put you off. The product comes out as a fairly lightweight, moisturizer-esque lotion that absorbs into the skin quickly and easily. It blends out really nicely, doesn’t pill and it also looks and feels invisible on the skin, too—a far cry from the sun lotions of yesteryear, which were the complete opposite.

Value: Is the Kiehl's Ultra Light Daily UV Defense Aqua Gel SPF50 worth it?

Kiehl's Ultra Light Daily UV Defense Aqua Gel SPF50 is currently priced around $40/£30 for a 30ml bottle and $50/£40 for 60ml—so if it’s value for money that you’re looking for, then it’s better to pay a little bit extra to get double the amount of product when you compare the two price tags. And while it's certainly more expensive than some of the other best dermatologist-recommended sunscreens, such as CeraVe, we think it's worth it for a well-formulated, comfortable to wear product. 

This sunscreen is available to buy from a number of retailers, including Kiehl's' own site, as well as websites like FeelUnique and LookFantastic, where it is sometimes available to purchase using a discount code. Or, if you’d rather buy in-store, it’s also stocked in shops including SpaceNK, Selfridges, and Harvey Nichols. 

My Imperfect Life's verdict on the Kiehl's Ultra Light Daily UV Defense Aqua Gel SPF50

Kiehl’s Ultra Light Daily UV Defense Aqua Gel SPF50 is a bestselling, much-loved product for a very good reason. It ticks every box in terms of having a high level of both UVA and UVB protection, plus it has the added benefit of anti-pollution and antioxidant ingredients which help make it a good choice for city dwellers. It’s an incredibly lightweight formula that applies beautifully onto the skin, it’s virtually invisible once applied and it also makes for the perfect base for makeup if you wanted to apply it on top. 

The choice of two different-sized bottles—one 30ml and one 60ml—is good, too, as it means you can either try a smaller version without committing or you can invest in a larger size which works out quite a bit cheaper. It’s worth noting that Kiehl’s is a well-respected, popular brand that has been creating effective and hardworking skincare since 1851. All in all, this SPF is an excellent choice for anybody who’s yet to build sunscreen into their daily routine, or for somebody who is on the lookout for a new product to try.

Sustainability is informing our buying choices now more than ever and when it comes to sustainable jewelry brands, independent companies like Emma Aitchison are leading the charge on how to make beautiful pieces that don’t cost the earth—literally.

If you’re new to buying from the best sustainable jewelry brands, Emma Aitchison’s is a great place to start. Below, we've reviewed the brand, sharing just how sustainable it really is, and how that translates to the shipping and delivery process, and the overall quality of the jewelry. We've specifically taken a look at the Swell Ring, to assess the sustainable brand's offerings—and found that overall, it’s the perfect jewelry box staple, with a chunky look and smooth finish, which will give any outfit an edge. It’s been designed to be stacked, a huge trend at the moment, and unlike many sustainable brands (which can be super pricey), won't cause you to dig too deep into your bank account.

Read on for our full review of this sustainable brand...

• These are the best sustainable fashion brands to have on your radar
• How to clean your jewelry pieces: Have them looking good as new!
• What your choice in jewelry says about you

Emma Aitchison sustainability

If you’re investing in a piece of sustainable jewelry, it's important to make sure the brand you’re buying from is genuinely doing everything they can to ensure that they aren’t negatively impacting the earth.

Emma Aitchison is an advocate for living sustainably and ethically in all ways, something which she puts at the heart of her business. All jewelry is made using 100-percent recycled metals and gemstones, plus all of the packaging it comes in is made from recycled materials and can be recycled. There is no plastic and a zero-waste approach to this packaging too, with even the tape used to close boxes being fully recyclable.

Aitchison regularly cross-checks all of the suppliers she works with to ensure that they meet her standards and finds new ones if any fall short. She donates 5-percent of every online sale to Survival International, a charity that works with tribal peoples to help them protect their lives and land. She is currently investigating a carbon-neutral delivery method and runs her studio using green energy, as well as putting thorough in-house recycling systems in place.

Overall, the brand appears to be operating as sustainably as it possibly can, working super hard to offset any carbon emissions and reduce waste. A big tick for us!

What is processing and shipping like at Emma Aitchison?

We all know how frustrating it can be when you’ve fallen hook, line and sinker for a new item, but it takes forever to arrive. But, if you’re committed to shopping sustainably it’s important to remember that conscious investments are not the same as fast fashion impulse buys that arrive on your doorstep the very next day.

Aitchison explains on her website that everything she sells is handcrafted in the UK—no big production lines or unethical factories crammed full of workers. Because of this, it takes her two to three weeks to create a piece and have it sent out. In our case, delivery was actually much faster—the Swell Ring we ordered was already in stock and Aitchison sent it out straight away using shipped recorded delivery, and it arrived within a few days. 

She understands that when it comes to special occasions though, you might be desperate to secure that dream gift for a friend and need something a little sooner. In those cases, she welcomes customers to get in touch and she will see what she can do. 

What is the Emma Aitchison packaging like?

Emma Aitchison’s packaging is some of the nicest we’ve seen—ever. All of her packaging has been designed with brand coherence in mind, from the burnt orange tissue paper illustrated with earthy swirls and a monogrammed “thank you” sticker. Items come in a taupe-and-orange gift box that has a quality feel, embossed finish and a cork sheet inside—getting eco points as an innovative sustainable material.

We also received a monogrammed canvas bag to keep our ring in when traveling and an explainer on the inspiration behind the Swell Ring. The bag was illustrated with ocean waves and a soothing written portrait of how the flowing movements of the metal reflect the rippling waves. Just lovely!

Emma Aitchison's brand story

Emma Aitchison grew up in the South West English countryside and from a young age felt connected to nature—something which is evident in her work. After studying jewelry design at university and working in London, Aitchison decided to reawaken her love of nature by returning to her rural roots and set about starting her own business with a deep environmental and ethical ethos.

Emma Aitchison has been running as a company since 2016 and has the vision to help shape the jewelry industry to be a better, fairer and more sustainable place. She hopes to prove through her beautiful, quality pieces that it is possible to make sales and run a business in a mindful way. 

So, what did we think about the actual jewelry when we tested it? See our full review of the Swell ring below...

Our review of the Emma Aitchison Swell Ring: what you need to know

What is the design of the Emma Aitchison Swell Ring like?

Emma Aitchison's Swell Ring is a design-focused piece. Its form is unusual, characterful and thanks to its handmade nature, completely unique. Aitchison is inspired by nature and the Swell Ring’s curves and dips represent the ocean. Once you know that, you can really see the creative journey she has been on, which makes the piece even more special.

This ring definitely suits the current trends as it’s chunky with an edge and is designed for layering and stacking with other rings. But there’s something timeless about it, too. There are no engravings or details that point towards a fashion-focused trend, so we don’t see why this piece would ever fall out of favor. Plus, it has an interesting mix of finishes with certain parts of the ring appearing smooth and shiny, while others are full of grooves. This again creates a sense of uniqueness and is a far cry from the mass-produced products we see at high street stores.

How is the ring to wear practically, though? As beautiful as gemstones are, they offer more opportunities for clothes to be snagged on sharp edges or raised stones. The Swell Ring does not suffer from this problem. As previously mentioned, its shape is very smooth and it doesn’t get caught on anything. The thick band also makes it difficult for it to fall off, and the flowing design means it doesn’t matter if it swivels around your finger. It’s a very practical ring to wear day-to-day.

How comfortable is the Emma Aitchison Swell Ring?

Linked to practicality is comfort, and again the Swell Ring gets top marks. We found the ring to be a snug fit, which we liked, as it meant we felt comfortable in the knowledge that it wouldn't slide or slip off without us noticing. As it is the same thickness all the way around, it does touch a larger surface area of the two fingers next to it than other rings might, but as it is so smooth, this isn't a problem.

How to clean the Emma Aitchison Swell Ring

Emma Aitchison goes above and beyond to ensure that customers are prepared and equipped with everything they need to keep their pieces clean and in good condition. We were pleasantly surprised to find inside the (beautiful and recyclable) packaging, instructions for three different methods of cleaning, depending on the kind of metal you have purchased. Not only is this really helpful, but it also came with a small bundle of wire wool to use as part of one of the methods and a soft, grey cleaning cloth to polish with.

All of these elements were packaged in an on-brand way, tucked into little bags or folded up neatly, and were a joy to open. We would say, though, that because the Swell Ring has two exterior folds that rim the edges of the piece, this creates a cavity that has the potential to get dusty and dirty. We like the design so wouldn’t see this as a flaw, but it's something to be aware of—the ring is quite fiddly to clean.

However, you likely won't need to do this too often, so it's not a major drawback in our books. 

What is the price of the Swell ring?

The Swell Ring in recycled silver is priced at £110. If a gold look is more your thing, you can select the option for 18-carat gold plating for £165, which sits on top of a recycled silver base. Most of the pieces in Emma Aitchison’s ring collection sit between the £100 to £200 price range. The ring is only available in the UK. 

Aitchison doesn’t often do sales, which makes sense, as it’s more expensive to run a business sustainably. But she does sometimes offer her customers surprise discounts and treats via her newsletter and secret online portal called The Wishing Well. So keep your eyes peeled!

The Clinique Acne Solutions foundation is one of our favorite foundations for acne prone skin. It's part of the brand's bestselling Acne Solutions range, which houses their cult Acne Solutions Clinical Clearing Gel and Acne Solutions Cleansing Foam too. The whole range has been met with a stream of rave reviews thanks to its targeted formulas that work to tackle acne-prone, oily, and combination skin.

But the iconic foundation is the only make-up product in the range. Formulated with salicylic acid—a BHA that works to flush out pores and kill acne-causing bacteria—it claims to help cover, clear, and prevent blemishes. On top of that, it’s an oil-free formula which is great news for acne sufferers, as the lightweight formula is non-comedogenic so will neither clog pores nor feel heavy and cakey on the skin. 

In its quest to be one of the best foundations, it’s also able to neutralize the appearance of redness while providing a decent level of coverage that has a matte, but still natural-looking, finish rather than being a flat matte, which can be a problem with a lot of similar foundations. Currently available in 8 shades, the formula does help absorb oil but some people might find it needs touching up with powder throughout the day to really keep oiliness at bay as much as possible.

How much does the Clinique Acne Solutions foundation cost?

At full price, Clinique’s Acne Solutions foundation (or Anti-Blemish Solutions Liquid Make-Up) costs $31 (£29) for 30ml of product. It’s available from Clinique's official website, but other retailers often offer discounts.

What are the ingredients?

The main talking point in terms of ingredients here is salicylic acid, which you'll know if you've long searched for the best foundation for acne prone skin. All acne sufferers and oily skin types already know what a hero that is in terms of tackling spots and the fact it’s got a place in a foundation is a brilliant addition to the formulation. That means that it can work its magic throughout the day, targeting spots and fighting the acne-causing bacteria. Other ingredients include caffeine, which is excellent for reducing inflammation caused by spots, as well as glycerin—a type of humectant that works to help hydrate and moisturize skin. It’s also worth noting that this foundation is oil-free, too, which is good as it means you’re not adding extra oil onto already-oily skin, making this one of the best non-comedogenic foundations you can buy too.

How many shades are there in the range?

This is the only factor that lets this foundation down. Despite the fact there has been a big push from consumers in terms of holding brands accountable when it comes to the range of foundation shades available, this one sadly only comes in eight shades. Out of those shades, the majority of them come under the ‘very fair’ and ‘fair’ categories, and at the time of writing this, there are only three shades in the ‘medium’ categories. Given the lack of options for people with medium to dark skin, we are hopeful that the shade range will be expanded to match the diverse shades that are available in other Clinique foundations in the near future.

• Our La Roche-Posay Pure Vitamin C10 Serum review reveals whether sensitive skin can REALLY tolerate a 10% vitamin C serum 
• Non-comedogenic vs oil-free foundation: which is best for oily and acne-prone skin
• This calming rosacea skin care routine will help prevent flare-ups and soothe sensitive skin

What about the coverage and finish?

Clinique Anti-Blemish Solutions Liquid Make-Up has natural-looking, medium coverage that can easily be layered and built up depending on the desired finish and what your own personal preference is. The product itself has a satisfyingly silky, liquid texture that’s on the runnier side but isn’t too watery. Our tester found it applied best using a damp make-up sponge, but it can also be buffed in with a buffing brush. It dries down to a demi-matte finish, and it’s fine to apply powder on top if you want to set it in place.

How easy is it to use?

There’s no denying that this foundation does dry down quite quickly, but it is easy to apply and if you use a damp make-up sponge to apply it, you get a slightly longer play time to ensure it’s blended properly. The bottle that the foundation comes in is easy to hold and grip, and even though there isn’t a pump, the thin nozzle means that it can be poured out in a controlled way so you won’t end up wasting product. We also found that a little bit went a long way, so even though this foundation is on the more expensive side, one bottle should last a while.

Overall results

All in all, we were incredibly impressed with Clinique’s foundation, from the added skincare benefits to the natural-looking finish. With continued use, we are sure this will be a positive addition to any make-up bag in terms of how effective it is at treating spots.

Clinique Anti-Blemish Solutions Liquid Make-Up summary

In summary, we are huge fans of this foundation and would happily and confidently, recommend it to anybody who suffers with spots, breakouts or acne or who has oily or combination skin. The oil-free formula helps balance skin and the added salicylic acid will help treat unwanted spots throughout the day while also working to flush out pores. 

While you should still be using a targeted skincare routine specifically for acne-prone skin, this will definitely help to enhance the results. The foundation itself is lovely to use, blends well and leaves a nice, natural-looking finish rather than being chalky, thick, and heavy. 

The only complaint is the lack of shades on offer, but Clinique’s other foundations all mostly have an impressive range of shades so we are hopeful that this one will follow suit. There’s a very good reason that this is a real cult product for acne skin types, and we can see why—if you invest, you won’t regret it. We promise.

Our Mad Hippie Vitamin C serum review reveals whether this natural serum can be a match for its more high-tech counterparts. Whether you're dealing with skin dullness, sagging, or hyperpigmentation, seeking out one of the best vitamin C serums is key for your skincare regime.

But with so many serums on the market, from SkinCeuticals CE Ferulic to La Roche-Posay Pure Vitamin C10 Serum, all promising the same results, the formula you plump for is a very individual decision. That choice, however, becomes pretty narrow if you prefer to lean on natural skincare products. So we put the Mad Hippie Vitamin C serum to the test to see if its glow and ability to fade pigmentation could stand up to more mainstream products and doctor brands on the market.

The Mad Hippie Vitamin C Serum is best known as a fan favorite on Instagram, especially with wellness bloggers who recommend slathering your skin in it while downing a wheatgrass shot. But delving deeper into the product’s back story reveals that it’s less faddy than social media would have you believe. There’s real science behind the Mad Hippie Vitamin C Serum, which explains why it’s an award-winning product. And when it comes to the vitamin C derivative, it is powered by sodium ascorbic phosphate rather than the usual suspect, L-ascorbic acid, for good reason. 

Natural extracts of clary sage, grapefruit, hyaluronic acid, konjac root powder, aloe leaf extract, and chamomile flower also make it into the formula, which ticks a lot of boxes for natural skincare fans. As do vitamin E and ferulic acid, which dermatologists recommend you use in tandem with vitamin C for their antioxidant prowess. 

Mad Hippie Vitamin C Serum review: the need to know

Targets:
Dull skin and signs of sun damage.

USP:
Its natural formula and choice of less sensitizing vitamin C derivative, sodium ascorbic phosphate.

Storage:
The Mad Hippie Vitamin C Serum already comes in an amber-colored bottle to protect it from light but nevertheless it’s worth storing it in a dark, cool space to maintain its potency.

How much does it cost?

The RRP for the Mad Hippie Vitamin C Serum is $33.99/£25, which, although not cheap, is the going rate for a mid-range serum these days.

The science behind Mad Hippie Vitamin C Serum

The Mad Hippie Vitamin C Serum uses sodium ascorbic phosphate, a stable form of vitamin C, which means it’s less prone to oxidation (when exposure to sunlight and air can turn a formula brown and rancid smelling).  Dermatologists also say this is a gentler form of vitamin C than the popular L-ascorbic acid so often used in serums. 

The difference lies in their composition: L-ascorbic acid is ‘bioactive’ and a readily available form of vitamin C for the skin to use straight away; sodium ascorbyl phosphate converts into ascorbic acid once it's in the skin. Generally speaking, this conversion process makes sodium ascorbic phosphate less potent than other forms of vitamin C but also more likely to be tolerated by all skin types, including those prone to sensitivity. 

The other key ingredients include antioxidant vitamin E and also ferulic acid, which boosts the power of vitamins C and E in fighting damage from free radicals and ramping up collagen production. From there, hyaluronic acid hydrates and chamomile extract soothes. The added benefit of all of these ingredients being in a serum rather than a cream is that the tiny liquid molecules are able to dive deeper into the skin, past the outer layer.

• What are the benefits of using a vitamin C serum: here's everything you need to know
• Medik8 Super C30 review: the effective vitamin C serum that restores a youthful glow
• Here's how to fade dark spots on your face according to the experts

How to use

When it comes to how to use vitamin C serum, this ingredient doesn’t make skin more photosensitive like, say, retinol, but it’s worth layering sunscreen over the top. Used together, a vitamin C serum acts as a second shield for the skin against UV rays and helps to neutralize any free radical damage.

Who should buy Mad Hippie Vitamin C serum

Those who prefer natural skincare products that are free from parabens, synthetic fragrance, dyes, petrochemicals, SLS, or other additives are likely add straight to basket. It’s also a beneficial serum for oily skin types and for those who normally find their skin becomes riled after using vitamin C. That said, the sensorial texture of the serum will make anyone’s skin look brighter and more light reflective—which is precisely the instant gratification we desire while our skincare gets to work in the long term.

Mad Hippie Vitamin C Serum review: the verdict

The jelly-like texture is nothing short of heavenly. It sinks in immediately and doesn’t leave skin feel tacky. The fact that it’s water-based is good news for oily skin types, as it’s less likely to clog pores, and is undeniably a draw in summer, when we’re lightening up our skincare layers. 

The only downside for vitamin C junkies is that sodium ascorbic phosphate is converted into ascorbic acid when in the skin. This makes it a less effective or active form of vitamin C than the gold standard L-ascorbic acid. Still, this is also why the Mad Hippie Vitamin C Serum is much less likely to cause irritation to sensitive skin. And it is still effective at inhibiting tyrosinase, the enzyme needed to produce melanin in the skin, the overproduction of which causes hyperpigmentation. 

But ultimately it’s the antioxidants that are the key players in this serum, as the powerful trio of ferulic acid and vitamins C and E help to brighten skin, stimulate collagen production and protect against ageing environmental aggressors. 

As you’ll see from our Pixi Beauty Balm review, we’re big fans of this BB cream wonder-product. It's packed with impressive skincare-grade ingredients that provide long-term benefits, offering the wearer way more than just color correction. 

Because of this, you'll find it holding a firm spot on our coveted best BB creams list. You can expect a medium to full coverage with this velvety-textured base that has been formulated to not only keep your skin hydrated all day long, but to smooth and even skin tone for a flawless finish. 

This is all thanks to gold standard actives like ceramides and hyaluronic acid, plus yeast-derived adenosine, and chamomile. It doesn't contain SPF, but it does come in an impressive range of colors when compared with other BB creams on the market. And it does mix well with an SPF if so desired.

How much does Pixi Beauty Balm cost?

The RRP for this BB cream is $29/£22, which is on the slightly pricier side of BB cream prices. But the skincare-packed formula makes it worth the investment. The price doesn’t tend to vary across stockists, but it's worth keeping an eye out during big retail sale days like Black Friday and the Christmas period, as many of them offer discounts on Pixi products at these times. 

What is the packaging like?

Sunlight and heat can affect the quality of skincare product, potentially breaking down active ingredients, which will accelerate the aging of a product. While some packaging is created to protect the formula inside, the tube that houses Pixi’s Beauty Balm isn’t made from a heat or UV protective material. Because of this, it’s best to store this BB cream out of direct sunlight and far from any heat source, like say your bathroom radiator. 

The tube is ergonomically pleasing, and the airtight pump is easy to use and convenient—as one pump equals one ‘dose’. The airtight lid ensures that oxygen, nitrogen, and carbon dioxide don’t make their way into the tube and break down the active skincare ingredients. After use, it’s best to place the pump down to ensure that the formula is ready and waiting at the base of the pump for quick and easy dispensing next time round.

What is the formula like?

Pixi Beauty Balm is made up of a blendable, richly pigmented medium to full coverage formula, which has a velvety texture and is made up of a plethora of skincare actives, including ceramides, hyaluronic acid, and more.

Ceramides, the fat found on the uppermost layers of the skin, help form the skin barrier and protect it from environmental aggressors like irritants, and pollution. They also help the skin retain moisture and without them, skin can become dry, itchy, and irritated. We do naturally produce ceramides, but their levels can deplete rapidly due to exposure to hot water, soaps, chemicals, and environmental factors. This is why replenishing them by way of your skincare can make a huge difference to the look of your skin. 

Another active included that’s naturally produced by the body is the much-lauded hyaluronic acid (HA). Made from amino acids and sugar molecules, it acts as a natural ‘humectant’—meaning that it draws water to itself. It can hold a thousand times its weight in water and help keep skin hydrated, but just like our ceramide supply, it’s beneficial to boost numbers topically. The hydrating nature of HA also helps stop the pigment within the formula from oxidizing and fading during the day. And if that wasn’t enough, this hardworking ingredient supports tissue structure too, resulting in smoother firmer skin. 

To further ramp up the smoothing effects of this BB cream, yeast-derived adenosine has been added. Essentially, it’s a signaling molecule that relaxes skin cells, reducing contractions that lead to lines and wrinkles. Studies show that the inclusion of this ingredient within skincare can lead to faster anti-aging results, than using collagen-building ingredients alone.  

To round out this skin-friendly BB, there’s the addition of anti-inflammatory and antioxidant chamomile. Just as it calms the mind, lowers stress, and soothes upset tummies, it also works wonders at relieving skin irritation, reducing redness, and boosting skin health for a radiant, lit-from-within complexion.

How to use Pixi Beauty Balm

When it comes to how to apply BB cream, Pixi recommends you put this hybrid buy directly over your skincare or primer. However, we found that while the formula keeps skin hydrated, what skincare and how much you use before application depends on your skin type. Dry skin may well benefit from a moisturizer pre-application, while normal skin might only need a serum, and oily skin types might want to use a serum followed by a mattifying primer. For protection against harmful rays, we’d suggest mixing with an SPF too. 

When it comes to application, the best method is to start at the center of the face working outwards—don’t forget to use it on the neck, and out onto the ears to create a seamless finish. We liked using our fingers for a sheer veil that’s more akin to a traditional BB finish, but for medium coverage, a long fluffy nylon bristle brush used in a sweeping motion works a treat. 

If you’re after a fuller coverage to conceal pigmentation, scarring, redness, or acne, use a sponge or a foundation brush with dense hairs and a compact head, pushing the pigment into the skin using small circular movements.

• When it comes to BB cream vs foundation, which is better for your skin?
• BB cream v CC cream: here's everything you need to know
• We asked the experts for advice on how to use foundation and bb cream together

Pixi Beauty Balm: is this BB cream actually worth your money?

In a word, yes. We loved that Pixi Beauty Balm stays put all day and leaves skin smooth—most importantly IMO—with an even skin tone. Over time skin looks and feels more hydrated too. Multitasking, hybrid beauty that gives wearers the opportunity to show off their skin is the ethos that lies at the heart of the Pixi brand. This is why they have got this BB so right, despite it not containing an SPF like traditional BBs. The ability to tailor the coverage to your needs, the multiple skincare benefits, superior staying power, and choice of shades more than makes up for this slight deviation from the norm. 

We found it super impressive that the ingredient list reads like a covetable serum, and that it had multiple long-term skincare benefits as well as instantly visible ones.

The velvety formula felt like a second skin, even when worn at full coverage and it suits a range of skin types and an even further range of concerns from redness, and lines, to acne.