Donna tells me that it was so hot in London during the show! Heatwave hot! And if there’s one thing I’ve learnt during my 28 years working behind-the-scenes on shoots as a Beauty Editor, is that makeup pros like Donna know how to handle makeup and skin in the heat! So I quizzed her on what she used.

THE OVER-MAKEUP SPF MIST THAT WON’T PILL YOUR FOUNDATION

The Pro Product: La Roche Posay Anthelios Anti-Shine Invisible Fresh Mist SPF 50+

If you’re sick of your sunscreen balling up into little grey flakes the second you try to blend foundation over it, Donna says you must stop putting SPF face cream underneath your makeup, especially on hot days. Instead use a spray like this one. But this must be caveated by the fact that your makeup base should have SPF in it too. A lot of the TV presenters were using the IT Cosmetics Your Skin But Better CC Cream as a base which contains SPF40.

THE FAKE TAN ALTERNATIVE THAT BLURS ‘PASTY LEGS’ AND BLUE VEINS

The Pro Product: Vita Liberata Body Blur

If you hate the patchy, streaky nightmare and awful biscuit-smell of fake tan, try this one - it’s one of Donna’s favourite instant bronzers! It’s great if you want to tan quickly and you can wash it off if you make any mistakes. There’s no smell plus it’s great at concealing any veins or pigmentation patches.

THE BODY GLOW PRODUCT THAT ISN’T STICKY

The Pro Product: REFY Body Glow.

For getting ‘expensive looking’ skin - you know, that glossy sheen that makes your arms, shoulders and collarbones look really glowy - Donna has recently discovered this. She loves it because it doesn’t leave your skin feeling sticky which so many other similar products do.

THE BRONZING DROPS FOR FIXING PALE, WASHED-OUT SKIN

The Pro Product: Weleda Sunkissed Bronzing Serum Drops

Donna’s easy hack for adding instant warmth to a pale face? Just mix a couple of drops straight into your daily moisturiser or foundation. She also loves (as I do too) the Naked Sundays Cabana Glow SPF50 Drops, especially if you’re looking for extra protection!

THE SLEEP-IN HAIR MASK THAT FIXES COARSE, STRAW-LIKE HAIR

The Pro Product: L’Oreal Elseve Hydra Hyaluronic Mask

We also discussed how I am on the lookout for a hair product to use in-between shampoos to help smooth out dryness and frizz. Donna swears by this mask which she ‘whacks’ onto damp hair after her shampoo and conditioner and then either leaves her hair to air-dry or finishes it off with a blow dry. She says it’s amazing for fixing menopausal straw-like dry hair! I have some on order already…

By the way….there seems to be all different names for it depending on the country it is stocked in. Elvive…Elvital…Elseve…they all look the same so pretty sure they are!

🎧 LISTEN TO THE FULL CHAT BY CLICKING HERE (AND DON’T FORGET TO FOLLOW)

The Beauty Ed®’s Note: Having spent almost three decades struggling to write about fragrance so as not to get caught up in the hard-to-understand pretentious language, THE LAB’s Contributing Editor, captures what KAYALI is about perfectly in this article. The Middle Eastern art of fragrance layering is a trend I am yet to test on myself and I love how the Kattan sisters have shaken up an industry that was so ready to be disrupted!

Inside The Disruptive World of KAYALI Fragrances

Few fragrance brands have managed to balance glamour and relatability quite like KAYALI. Launched in 2018 by sisters Mona Kattan and Huda Kattan, the brand has become one of the most recognisable names in modern fragrance, particularly amongst Gen Z and young millennial beauty audiences.

Earlier last year, the sisters announced a new chapter for the company, with Mona continuing forward as CEO and leading the future vision of the brand independently. For long-time followers of the Kattan sisters, it marked a significant shift, but one that feels deeply aligned with Mona’s identity as the emotional core of KAYALI.

And truthfully, a huge part of my own fascination with the brand began through the series Dubai Bling. (2022)

(Some of the Dubai bling cast including Mona’s husband: Hassan Elamin)

Dubai has always been somewhere deeply familiar to me. My family has travelled there since I was little, so when Dubai Bling first launched, all of us watched it together obsessively. Amidst all the chaos, glamour and inevitable drama, Mona Kattan was like a breath of fresh air.

What intrigued me most were the glimpses inside the her offices and the fragrance world itself. The bottles looked luxurious yet playful; inspired by traditional Middle Eastern perfume artistry, but modernised.

(Mona’s Dubai office)

Why Gen Z Is Obsessed with KAYALI

Unlike traditional fragrance houses that focus on a singular signature scent, Kayali built its identity around layering fragrances together, something heavily rooted in Middle Eastern perfume culture.

Many of the fragrances are rich, warm or fruity-floral, with recognisable notes like oud, vanilla, amber, musk and pistachio appearing throughout collections, but interpreted in a softer, more wearable way for everyday use.

Some of the cult favourites include:

1. KAYALI Vanilla 28

2. KAYALI Yum Pistachio Gelato 33

3. KAYALI Yum Boujee Marshmallow 81

If I had to recommend one fragrance to start with, it would still be Vanilla 28. It is warm without being sickly and rich without becoming overpowering. The blend of brown sugar, vanilla orchid, amber and tonka bean creates something incredibly comforting and expensive-smelling on the skin.

An Honest Review of the New KAYALI Eden Summer Collection

This summer, I tested the new KAYALI Eden Plush Pear 23 and KAYALI Eden Sweet Peach 35 fragrances during my travels through Italy, and both instantly felt perfect for hot weather and long evenings.

They sit under the “Eden” franchise, Kayali’s fruity-floral collection known for playful, juicy scents.

1.Eden Plush Pear🍐 | 23 “The clean girl scent with a fruity twist”

Out of the two, Plush Pear became my favourite almost immediately.

With notes of pear, bergamot, mandarin and gardenia, it smells incredibly fresh without being overly citrusy. The first evening I wore it, I was complimented almost instantly. Even my best friend kept asking what perfume I had on because, in her words, “it just smells clean.”

That is honestly the best way I can describe it.

It has that freshly-washed softness to it, almost like luxury laundry mixed with delicate florals. There is something very effortless about it.

I tested the 10ml miniature version, which has been perfect for travelling. I keep it inside my makeup pouch and reapply throughout the day, especially in the Italian heat where perfume disappears quickly.

The soft coral-pink bottle also unintentionally matched my summer nails, which somehow made me love it even more!

2.Eden Sweet Peach🍑 | 35 “Nostalgia in a bottle”

If Plush Pear feels clean and airy, Sweet Peach is its younger, louder sister.

This one is sweeter, warmer and far more playful. Notes of peach, nectarine blossom and frangipani make it smell almost edible, like a sweet sorbet during the summer.

What surprised me most was how nostalgic it felt…

About a week into testing it, I finally realised what it reminded me of: those iconic early-2000s Victoria’s Secret body mists everyone carried around at school.

The fruity-floral ones every changing room smelt of after PE.

Except this feels like the elevated grown-up version. The same mouth-watering juicy sweetness, but with far better longevity and depth.

It immediately reminded me of the old Pure Seduction era, that hyper-feminine fruity scent profile Gen Z is suddenly rediscovering again through the return of Y2K beauty!

Is KAYALI Perfume Worth The Price?

The miniatures begin at £28, whilst the larger bottles range upwards of £80-£110 depending on size.

Personally, I think the travel sizes are the smartest entry point into the brand, particularly because Kayali fragrances are designed for layering and switching depending on mood.

The KAYALI Eden Obsessions Miniature Set is probably the best option for anyone undecided, especially for summer travel.

And truthfully, that is where Kayali succeeds most: the fragrances feel emotional.

Some perfumes simply smell nice, whereas others become attached to memories, seasons, holidays and versions of yourself. These very much fall into the latter category.

You know the feeling: you’re standing in the shower, rinsing out your conditioner, and you lean back slightly so those annoying loose hairs don’t stick down your back or legs. You then vigorously rub your fingers together to clump together the wet wad of hair you’ve accumulated so that it doesn’t clog up your drain. And then as you flush said wad down the loo, you’re trying to reassure yourself that you’re not going bald!

Ah, yes, welcome to another midlife reality check! One that feels extra familiar to me. In fact, it’s so familar that when you google my name, the phrase ‘hair loss’ immediately follows thanks to how much I’ve written about it for publications like The Daily Mail and HELLO!.

The Hormonal Reality of Hair Loss in Midlife Women

If you’re a midlife woman, please understand that hormones and hair loss go hand in hand. You only have to read the forums on Reddit to know that. One woman shared: “I drop my hair on the ground in one big pile. I then try to hurry my shower, but I’m just presented with another few clumps while I put my leave-in spray in.” Another wrote: “Cleaning a mouse-sized clump of my own hair out of the drain every single morning is a physical countdown of my confidence disappearing down the pipes.”

My Personal Experience: Realising My Hair Loss Was Hormonal

When my hair started showing the classic signs of perimenopausal thinning and breakage - the timing felt like a cruel joke. It was during Covid; my dad was on life support (he thankfully and miraculously pulled through!); my husband was nursing his terminally ill uncle in America while I was back in the UK; I was home-schooling my kids and trying to hold down a job. To say it was a stressful is an understatement.

So I initially dismissed my hair thinning and breakage as stress. I was so concerned that my scalp was balding that I thought it might be alopecia, which my mum suffers from. But then when Covid passed, and my dad got much better, and the kids returned to school, and my husband returned to the UK and work started improving…my hair just continued to get worse. I could see my scalp more and more and the ends would constantly break. So if it wasn’t stress, what was it? It took writing a few articles about perimenopause and hormones for me to put two and two together…

Testing Red Light Therapy: My Honest CurrentBody LED Hair Regrowth Helmet Review

As an award-winning Beauty Editor, I have spent decades testing hundreds of hair products, trying to cut through all the brand marketing fluff so I can give you my honest thoughts about them. Do they work? Are they worth the money? And since my hair loss experience began, I have been road testing all the latest products, gadgets and gimmicks: scalp serums, tonics, supplements, masks - you name it, I’ve most likely tried it.

And while there are a handful of products that really do work (I’ll save those for another feature), when I was sent the CurrentBody Red Light Helmet to test, I was reluctant to believe that it would be one of them.

Even though I knew the helmet was FDA approved and the claims behind the technology were backed by data and science, I was sceptical that this would really work. Why? Strangely, the price point was to blame. Expensive at-home gadgets that promise miraculous-sounding results are rarely worth their money. You’re often better off going to a clinic for a more personalised treatment.

But as a journalist who values science over TikTok trends, I committed to a trial. And now that I’m three months into the process, I want to give you an update as to what has actually happened to my hair and what the experts think about the science behind the helmet too…

My 3-Month Verdict CurrentBody LED Helmet Verdict

Let’s start with one honest observation: three months in - I can’t actually tell if it has made any real difference. However, this must be caveated by the fact that I haven’t exactly been using it properly. The experts at CurrentBody claim that you should see a 123% increase in hair growth after 3 months, BUT in order for this to happen, you must be using the device once daily for at least 10 minutes. This is the part that I have not been doing…

Which leads to my second honest observation: 3 months has given me enough time to realise that while the helmet is lightweight and pretty comfortable considering how cumbersome it is, it doesn’t really fit into my routine that well. Which makes consistency - ie. the entire key to its success - feel like a chore and hard to keep up with in my routine.

Unlike LED face masks, which I find relaxing and soothing to wear while watching TV or reading in bed, I don’t really look forward to wearing the helmet. The kids think I look like an absolute lunatic walking around the house in what they now call - The Tron Helmet. The best option for me is wearing it while I’m working at my laptop. I just have to get used to the passing p*ss take comments if my husband or sons are at home at the same time.

I’ve tried wearing the helmet and my LED mask at the same time too - but that’s uncomfortable and an unrealistic habit that I would never stick to.

There’s also the issue of storing it. It’s big! It comes with a stand, which looks smart, but unless you’ve got a huge f*ck off bathroom or walk-in wardrobe like Kim K, it will probably just end up gathering dust on top of an erm, a trunk like mine or underneath your bed.

Why Holistic Health & Upgraded Haircare Matter Most

The irony is though, that actually, my hair is currently in the best health of its life. Well, its midlife. It’s shiny, it’s strong, and I’ve even managed to grow it past my bra strap - something I haven’t managed to do since I was in my twenties.

But this hasn’t been a quick fix. And you must remember that we can’t expect a $859.99 helmet to undo all of the complex hormonal shifts that we experience in midlife while we keep doing everything else the same.

While testing the helmet (probably around three times a week), I’ve been consistently taking care of myself too. I have daily stress, yes, don’t we all? But I haven’t drank alcohol for two years. I go to the gym most days, and I am using some really amazing hair products (K18 Hair Mask - I am looking at you as per). Oh and I take HRT. So let’s say, the helmet is likely the extra 5%-10% on top. The icing on the perimenopausal hair loss cake if you like…

What the Experts Say: Dermatologist Dr. Nicole Chiang Gives Her Verdict

I recently spoke to consultant dermatologist Dr. Nicole Chiang on my podcast, Smiling Gives You Wrinkles®, who confirmed that while there is “no harm” in trying red light therapy for perimenopausal hair loss, and that there is “great science” behind it, the effects for using an at-home device is nuanced and “quite small.”

“As a main treatment, I don’t tend to see significant improvement in the hair density even after six months down the line. There’s some evidence [it works], and if somebody has significant thinning, I would use it as an adjunct rather than the main treatment.” explains Dr. Nicole Chiang.

Dr. Nicole also notes that if you have thick hair, a bulky helmet like the one from CurrentBody can block the light from reaching the scalp, which may make it less effective and the results inconsistent. So she suggests trying a red light therapy comb - like this one from Hairmax - that parts the hair so the red light accurately and more precisely reaches the scalp skin and so may be more effective.

PROS & CONS OF RED LIGHT THERAPY FOR HAIR: A DERMATOLOGIST’S OPINION

🎬 WATCH THIS CLIP FROM SMILING GIVES YOU WRINKLES®

My Personal Experience: The Fixes That Actually Work

If you find yourself staring at all the hair in your shower plug after every shampoo and feel overwhelmed, I know it’s hard, but please try not to worry! Instead, look at your everyday habits. Think about your diet - are you eating enough protein? Are you keeping hydrated? Are you really stressed? How is your sleep? These lifestyle factors play a huge role in the health of your hair. And please review the products that you are using. Avoid any that contain drying silicones and sulphates. These can strip the hair and scalp of moisture making it more prone to dryness and breakage. Also try not to shampoo everyday - that can really dry out your scalp too!

And if you have the money, and the patience to try out a new long-term routine, there is no harm in trying a red light therapy hair device like the CurrentBody one. I also like the look of the Hairmax comb and the LED caps like this one from Beauty Pie which is currently on sale in the UK for £332. I just think they would be easier to store and pop on while you’re making a cup of tea or answering emails…

💌 YOU MIGHT ALSO ENJOY…

The Beauty Ed®’s Note: THE LAB Contributing Editor was kindly gifted these glass balms, and with the values that I have stuck with my whole 25+ year career in beauty journalism, she chose to review them honestly and thoughtfully for you reader! We hope you find this review helpful!

If there’s one category that has refused to peak and disappear, it’s the glass lip. In 2026, it has evolved far beyond the original glazed-doughnut moment into something more textural, more skincare-led, and, increasingly, more dessert-coded than ever.

With strong K-beauty influence filtered through sweet treats: lip oils that smell like macaroons, balms inspired by desserts, and formulas that promise shine and hydration in equal measure. The result is a category that sits somewhere between makeup and skincare, and is now one of the most saturated (and genuinely competitive) corners of beauty.

I tested two of the most talked-about ‘glass balm’ launches: Glow Recipe’s Glass Balm in Fig Bingsoo (£19) and Laneige’s Glaze Craze Tinted Lip Serum in Rose Jam (£18.50), over multiple wear tests to see which one performed better.

Glow Recipe Glass Balm🍧

Glow Recipe’s ‘Glass Balm’ sits firmly in the ‘skincare disguised as gloss’ category. The specific shade ‘Fig Bingsoo’ is inspired by the Korean shaved ice dessert, which makes sense once you understand the texture: cooling, smoothing, and restorative rather than overtly glossy.

The formula combines hyaluronic microspheres and glycerin, designed to draw moisture into the lips and improve surface texture over time. In practice, it doesn’t act as a traditional lip gloss at all. There’s no aggressive shine or lacquered finish; instead, it melts into the lips and leaves a soft sheen.

Sarah Lee, Glow Recipe’s co-founder, describes the process as microscopic spheres moving across the lips, ‘filling in the dry gaps.’

Glow Recipe Glass Balm Review: Performance & Wear Test:

• No stickiness whatsoever

• Sheer-to-medium muted mauve tint

• Subtle sweet scent that doesn’t overpower

It also wears longer than expected for something so lightweight. On me, it faded evenly without the usual dryness that often comes with glossy formulas.

*If there’s a critique, it’s that the ‘plumping’ claim feels more conceptual than visible. You get softness but not plumping.

Rating: 8/10🌟

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Laneige Glaze Craze Tinted Lip Serum Review (Shade: Rose Jam) 🍩

The new Glaze Craze Tinted Lip Serum shades are a limited-edition spring collection featuring a sheer black, a lavender, and a rosy pink. As frequent readers will know, I have a longstanding loyalty to Laneige, I religiously use their lip sleeping masks and base products, and it’s also a brand that seems to be a favourite of fellow LAB students too, which made testing this release feel particularly exciting!

The new doughnut inspired shades include: Rose Jam, Lavender Frosting, and Black Plum, although, predictably, Rose Jam was the one I was most drawn to from the outset. In my opinion, it is the most wearable of the three: a rosy pink that captures that glazed, dessert-coded finish.

Rose Jam is also the only shade in the line-up that isn’t glittery or shimmer-heavy; instead, it’s a true glassy gloss, smooth and reflective.

Texture-wise, Laneige is doing something noticeably more substantial than Glow Recipe. It’s thicker, more cushiony, and feels like a gloss-serum hybrid rather than a balm. The shine is stronger on application, more overt, and the pigment is also more immediate, particularly in Rose Jam, where the colour actually holds its own against the gloss.

The scent, however, is where Laneige fully wins. It’s sweet, rose, macaron scent truly embodies that dessert fantasy. It’s the kind of product you notice before you even apply it, which, depending on how you feel about fragrance in lip products, will either be part of the appeal or slightly overwhelming.

I also have to mention the applicator, which is a soft, circular applicator that is reminiscent of a glazed doughnut shape, and actually makes application more controlled than you’d expect from such a glossy formula. It’s a small detail, but it does reinforce Laneige’s strength in packaging-led sensorial design.

In wear, Rose Jam gives you that immediate ‘done’ lip, glossy, slightly plush, visually impactful, but it does soften and fade more quickly than Glow Recipe, particularly after eating or drinking. What remains is more of a stain-like tint rather than the original glass effect.

Still, within the context of a limited-edition drop, it feels very aligned with Laneige’s current direction: skincare-adjacent, highly sensorial, and designed as much for aesthetic pleasure as for functional wear.

Rating: 7/10🌟

Head-to-Head Wear Test Comparison: Glow Recipe Vs Laneige

I wore both products on separate days under similar conditions, with some lip liner and repeated reapplication checks across the day.

Hydration & Formula Lip Treatment: Glow Recipe 💕

It feels like a treatment balm first and a cosmetic second.

Glass-Like Shine Finish: Laneige 🍩

It is significantly glossier on first application. If your priority is a visible glass effect, it delivers more immediately.

Long-Wear Comfort & Texture: Glow Recipe 💗

Both formulas are non-sticky, but Glow Recipe excels for long-wear comfort and ‘forget you’re wearing it’ texture.

Longevity & Fading: Glow Recipe 💗

It lasts longer in a wearable, more evenly textured way.

Sensory & Fragrance experience: Laneige 🍩

The rose-macaron scent is strong and nostalgic.

The Verdict: Which Viral Glass Balm Is Worth It?

Personally, I reached for Glow Recipe’s glass balm more often. It moisturises the lips well throughout the day, sits well under everything, and looks gorgeous layered over the nude lipsticks I wear most days. It feels like a product you finish entirely and immediately consider repurchasing.

That said, Laneige wins on pure sensory pleasure. The scent, the pigment, the glass-like finish.

So, which one wins?

• Choose Glow Recipe Glass Balm for everyday wear and hydration.

• Choose Laneige Glaze Craze for glossy impact and makeup looks.

The Beauty Ed®’s Note: When I launched The Beauty Ed®, my mission was simple: to clear away the white noise of the beauty industry and champion real, unfiltered skin and beauty for women of all ages. Over my 28 years as a beauty editor, I have introduced no-retouch policies at major publications, fought against the pressure of the perfect social media filter, and consistently advocated for the joy of looking like yourself. That is why I am incredibly proud to introduce this article by Lexie Stone, a rising sophomore, competitive gymnast, and a star in THE LAB mentoring program. In a world where social media algorithms often push multi-step makeup on teenagers, Lexie’s fresh take on the viral “glass skin” trend is a breath of fresh air. At just 14, she already possesses the journalistic maturity to remind her peers that their real skin is a unique strength and that makeup should make you feel confident. Amazing work Lexie ✨

A Teen Guide To Liquid, Powder, and Cream Blush

Walking into makeup stores, there are liquid, powder, and cream blusher options for every shade, but I never know which one I should get. As a fourteen-year-old girl, I want my makeup to glow and stay for a long period of time, but figuring out which products and what type is a constant struggle.

Is The Glass Skin Trend Actually Good for Teen Skin?

The glass skin effect quickly exploded on social media, and it is the trending term for mixing skincare and makeup together to create a long-lasting and glowy face. Glass skin gives a natural look rather than heavy coverage and is an easy way to enhance your natural beauty.

However, I am aware that glass skin is heavily advertised by influencers and can create unrealistic standards for teens or anyone who desires glass skin. Plus, a multi-step skincare routine is not always beneficial for every skin type.

It’s important to remember that your real skin is unique: embracing yourself and your skin is an amazing strength to have.

To help me figure out which blush to choose, I’ve broken down each category to research their benefits…

What Is Liquid Blush Best For? (And How To Apply It)

Best for: Dry skin, and anyone wanting to achieve a dewy fresh look.

Liquid blush is often blended with sponges or by lightly pressing it onto your skin with your fingertips. It absorbs quickly and helps to keep skin looking silky and hydrated.

Liquid blush generally fades faster, but a little goes a long way: one or two small dots are enough. Personally, I wear liquid blush to school for a glowy, natural look, but I also wear it out to events with my friends. Depending on my mood and occasion, I will apply more for a bold style.

Lexie’s Pick: My favorite brand of liquid blush would have to be the viral Rare Beauty Soft Pinch Liquid Blush. It has strong color pigment so you only need to use small amounts. It also blends smoothly and I love that it’s vegan, cruelty free, and paraben free. Plus, the blush is dermatologist tested so it is suitable for all skin types.

When Should You Choose Powder Blush?

Best for: Oily or combination skin, and if you prefer a classic, matte look.

Powder absorbs oils and provides a matte finish which can sometimes appear heavy. But if you apply it lightly, it can give your cheeks an airbrushed finish.

Lexie’s Powder Blush Tips:

• I always tap my brush before applying it to my face to remove excess powder and avoid patchy spots.

• Make sure to blend powder fully to make sure there is no chalky finish.

• Powdered blush can also be used as eyeshadow and even as a lip tint by taking a small amount and brushing it on your lips. This creates a personalized look.

Lexie’s Pick: One of the most popular powders I see on social media is E.l.f.’s Powder Blush Palette. It comes with four different shades - you can use each shade individually or mix them together to get a more personal color.

Why Cream Blush Is Perfect For Beginners

Best for: All skin types, beginners and anyone who loves a quick, natural look.

Cream blush is hydrating and lightweight - similar to liquid textures and gives skin a dewy, natural finish. Cream blush is built for all skin types and it is easy to blend with sponges or brushes, and can also be applied with your finger.

Often, cream blush is more subtle than liquid or powder blush, and as it often comes in stick form it can easily be swiped and blended onto your skin.

Lexie’s Pick: One of my go to’s each morning is the Makeup By Mario’s Soft Pop Blush Stick. It adds a healthy flush of color to my cheeks, blends really easily and feels comfortable on my skin.

Liquid vs. Powder vs. Cream Blush: How To Find Your Match

Every type of makeup has positives and negatives, and trial and error is a part of everyday life, including your makeup. It’s up to you which option you feel most confident in. Remember: your makeup routine should reflect your personal style, not the unrealistic standards on the internet.

Lexie Stone is a freshman, competitive gymnast, and THE LAB mentee, focusing on feeling confident through your skin. You’ll find Laneige, Refy, Rare Beauty, and Makeup By Mario in her beauty supply.

Every single beauty brand on the planet is screaming at us about peptides right now. Some are even calling them “Botox in a bottle.” FFS! That’s my pet hate. No product will ever work like Botox.

But that being said, as much as I can be skeptical about every new skincare trend and fad (that’s what over 25 years working in the beauty industry will do to you), some are genuinely worth talking about. And peptides definitely fall into that category.

But peptides are not a new ingredient in skincare. I remember writing about them when I was running the beauty desk at InStyle magazine in the mid-noughties, and I presented a trend report about them when I worked as Beauty Director at Boots back in 2015.

Cut to 2026, and all the skincare brands are jumping back on the peptide bandwagon. Why? Because they are such a hot topic in the wellness industry right now. GLP-1s are a form of peptides after all…

So to cut right through all of the headlines and new product launches, I asked my brilliant friend and top consultant dermatologist, Dr. Justine Kluk to explain what peptides actually do, and whether they are worth the space in your skincare routine.

📸 WATCH: CLICK BELOW TO WATCH A CLIP FROM MY LATEST EPISODE OF MY PODCAST, SMILING GIVES YOU WRINKLES®

Listen to the full episode with Dr. Justine Kluk here

How Do Peptides Work? Cellular Messengers vs. Marketing Fluff

Justine definitely helps us strip away the marketing jargon in this clip, right? As she says, simply put, peptides are like the building blocks of proteins like collagen, elastin, and keratin. All the naturally forming parts of your skin. We have them in abundance when we are born.

And so when we apply a peptide serum to our skin, they act like tiny, microscopic cellular soldiers that basically tell your skin that it’s falling apart (to put it frankly) and it needs to make more of those proteins that we are born with.

The Beauty Ed® Edit: 3 Tried-and-Tested Peptide Serums I Swear By

So now, you might think that you need to introduce a peptide product into you routine. I think it’s a good idea. They are proven to help skin strength, softness and glow. But before you go out and buy a new product, you might be surprised to find that your existing routine may contain peptides in some shape or form already.

Here are some peptide-rich products that I already have in my routine…

1. Beauty Pie Youthbomb™ 360° Radiance Concentrate

I’ve used this on-and-off for three years and have written about it in my editorials like this one for HELLO!

Beauty Pie is well known for making luxury grade, hi-tech formulas at affordable prices, and this is a perfect example of that. It is rich in their own patented peptide complex which packs a massive punch of 18 different skin-strengthening peptides that focus on giving skin a a lovely softness and glow.

2. No7 Future Renew Damage Reversal UV Defence Shield SPF50

No7 is a brand that I have huge respect for - when I worked at Boots UK I saw how much research and development went into all of their products. And I love this SPF. It’s so lightweight and makes for a gorgeous makeup base. No thick white cast that you can sometimes get with high SPFs. And bonus: it also contains lots of gorgeous peptides too.

3. Estée Lauder Advanced Night Repair

It’s no secret that this iconic brown bottle does wonders for your skin. And it’s no secret that I love it. I’ve been using and writing about it for years. I wrote about it a couple of years ago here for HELLO! and the article went viral. It’s the one product that I always recommend to my friends and followers to buy if they just don’t know where to start with their skincare routine. But did you know that it contains super special peptide technology, which basically keeps your skin safe during the day from all the environmental aggressors (pollution etc) and then shifts gears at night so skin renews itself while you sleep. No wonder it’s one of my faves.

2 New Peptide Serum Launches Worth Your Attention

1. Medik8 Liquid Peptides Advanced MP

Medik8 is a brand that I have trusted for a long time - it’s well respected in the industry and I swear by their Retinal. This serum uses a fancy 30% multi-peptide complex that works differently to regular peptides, which are rigid. These fold into nimble shapes that easily lock onto skin receptors. The marketing jargon says that it softens lines within ten minutes - extremely debatable! But I did notice how my skin appeared a little smoother in general once I reached the bottom of the bottle. I really like this.

2. SkinCeuticals P-TIOX Neuro-Peptide Serum

Dr. Justine Kluk actually made me try this! She was skeptical about it’s benefits at first - as it was being marketed as Botox In A Bottle - but once she tried it, she was pretty impressed: "I had a big cynicism because they said it has these peptides in it that reduce muscle movement and can mimic Botox. I was like, here we go again, Botox in a bottle... but then I got sent one and I was like, you know, just the curiosity massively overcame me and I started using it." Justine loved it as she just felt like while it didn’t freeze her muscles like Botox, it definitely gave her skin that ‘glassy glow’ that so many serums promise. And after testing it out myself for a few weeks, I tend to agree.

I want to know your thoughts. Have you found a peptide formula that actually gave your skin that bouncy, healthy glow?

(Lily Collins spotted at Agios Sostis Beach)

The Beauty Ed®s Note: One of the most rewarding privileges of my career to date has been nurturing raw writing talent. Through my mentoring program, THE LAB, I get to give the next generation of writers and creators a platform to cut through the social and digital noise and write about pop culture and beauty with personality, honesty and thought. So when (who is now officially a Contributing Editor), pitched this piece about the new filming locations for Emily In Paris, I knew it would be editorial gold. What I love about Gia’s writing and what we champion at THE LAB is the ability to look past the glossy surface of a trending TV show and analyze the bigger cultural picture. As a Greek girl living in London, Gia brings a unique perspective proving that the next generation of beauty journalists have so much to offer! Over to Gia…

(The Kato Mili: The Windmills of Mykonos)

There are few series that have managed to dominate escapist television quite like ‘Emily in Paris.’ Equal parts chaos, couture and second-hand embarrassment, the show has built an almost cult-like following around its glossy portrayal of Parisian life, and, of course, around Lily Collins’ portrayal of Emily Cooper.

Now, ahead of the highly anticipated sixth season, the internet is once again in detective mode after reports emerged yesterday that filming has officially begun in Mykonos, Greece.

For those who watched the season five finale, the Greece connection was foreshadowed. After Emily’s brief ‘Roman holiday’ era, complete with Marcello Muratori, and an attempted La Dolce Vita reinvention, the finale ended with a familiar complication: Gabriel. In classic Emily in Paris fashion, emotional closure remained entirely unresolved. A postcard from Greece, sent by ex-boyfriend Gabriel while working aboard, hinted that the next chapter may move beyond Paris, at least temporarily…

Spotted: Emily In Paris Production Hits Agios Sostis Beach

This week, Greek media outlets began reporting that production crews had arrived on the island, with filming allegedly taking place at Agios Sostis beach one of Mykonos’ most renowned coastal spots. Reports also suggest that private windmills in the Kato Mili area have been secured as filming locations, while sections of the beach were heavily restricted during production.

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(Agios Sostis beach Mykonos)

Truthfully, Greece makes perfect sense for the Emily in Paris universe. The franchise has always thrived on fantasy travel: beautiful people having emotionally complicated conversations against impossibly picturesque backdrops. After Paris and Rome, the Cyclades feel like the natural next step.

Gia’s Note: As a Greek girl living in London, seeing Emily in Paris potentially collide with Greek summer culture feels oddly surreal. Especially considering Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis previously admitted the show was one of his wife’s favourite comfort watches, something that instantly circulated across Greek media when it was first mentioned.

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The ‘Location Fantasy’ Trend

Beyond the plot itself, the move also reflects a larger television trend: luxury travel-driven storytelling continuing to dominate streaming culture. Much like The White Lotus, audiences are no longer just watching for narrative; they are watching for location fantasy. And few places sell summer fantasy quite like Mykonos.

Whether Emily is truly entering her ‘Greek island era’ or simply passing through remains unclear. But one thing is certain: if Emily in Paris does fully embrace Greece this season, expect searches for ‘Emily in Paris Mykonos filming locations’ and ‘Lily Collins Greece’, to explode over the coming weeks.

📸 Spotted This Week: Lily Collins and Ashley Park were seen filming in the south of Mykonos town

We have already watched Emily’s style evolve from Parisian chic to Italian glamour in Rome, but Greece feels entirely different again… As a Greek girl myself, I can already imagine the direction the styling may take. I do not think we will lose Emily’s femininity or love of colour, but I do think we’ll see her lean into a more Mediterranean softness: white cottons, blue embroidery, woven bags, crochet flats and those effortless co-ord sets that always somehow look chic.

Interestingly, filming has reportedly been spotted near some of Mykonos’ most loved little boutiques known for selling handmade woven accessories and mati jewellery (🧿the evil eye symbol worn for protection and good luck) which instantly made me wonder whether the show will subtly weave those details into Emily’s wardrobe too…

Beauty-wise, I can already picture a shift away from her usual polished Paris looks towards something more bronzed and sun-flushed. Luminous cheeks, glossy lips after a day in the heat, maybe even hints of blue around the eyes inspired by the sea. Lily Collins was recently photographed on set in a beautiful blue embroidered FARM Rio dress, and honestly, it looked exactly like the kind of romantic Mediterranean styling I had imagined for this new chapter of Emily.

✨If you missed my breakdown of the beauty looks, products and trends behind Season 5, you can read my full Emily in Paris beauty guide below.

The Beauty Ed®’s Note: Pretty In Pink is one of my favorite films ever. I love everything that Andie, the main character stood for. She never bowed to peer pressure to ‘fit in’ or felt like she had to dress a certain way. And for her prom, she cut up two different dresses to make her look that was entirely her own. And that’s the kind of attitude that I hope my THE LAB mentees feel. THE LAB gives Gen A and Gen Z students a space where they can talk about beauty on their own terms and in a real life context that is not about beating algorithms or keeping advertisers happy. My background in teen magazine journalism and my legacy in producing transparent, honest beauty content guides my students to create inspiring content that is relatable, honest, educational and entertaining. It helps fuel their education, college applications and as you will see from this brilliant GRWM Prom video shot, directed and edited by THE LAB’s 16 year old mentee, Diana Muzzarelli, it is a lot of fun for them too! This is exactly what Gen Z and Gen A beauty content should be about!

Note: The Summer Fridays Blush, e.l.f Halo Glow Silky Powder Hilighter and Hourglass Lip Gloss were gifted to us, there was no obligation for Diana to use or speak about them. My role is to keep beauty transparent and give these generations an unbiased voice in the beauty space.

🎬 WATCH DIANA GET READY FOR PROM:

Diana’s Prom Prep Breakdown

Whenever I scroll through Tik Tok, you’d think every teenager has a 12-step skincare routine, but Diana’s is simple and a good mix of affordable drugstore brands like Panoxyl and luxury products like the Tatcha Water Cream - which by the way, is her “favorite product literally ever.” Diana is not such a fan of the Dyson Airwrap though! She wouldn’t waste her money on it again!

The Skincare Prep

• PanOxyl 10% Benzoyl Peroxide Acne Foaming Wash: A $14 Target find that Diana credits for clearing her oily skin.

• La Roche-Posay Toner: Diana uses it to balance her skin.

• Byoma Brightening Serum: Diana loves that this saves her money as it combines two of her fav ingredients - niacinamide and hyaluronic acid - and in her words, it saves her steps too! Save those for the dancefloor Diana 👯

• Tatcha The Water Cream: Diana bedazzled her “favorite product literally ever!” She says it’s worth the $93 (!) splurge for its lightweight feel.

• Ouai Body Cream: Diana loves that it doesn’t leave her skin feeling greasy!

Diana’s Take On The Dyson Airwrap Multi-Styler:

She likes it but wouldn’t spend $500 on it again.

Diana’s Makeup Look

I love that Diana doesn’t wear a thick heavy makeup base - she just uses moisturiser, concealer and hilighter to let her natural beauty and skin shine through ✨

• Charlotte Tilbury Magic Water Cream: Diana uses this as a final skin prep step before applying makeup.

• Summer Fridays Blush (Shade: Dusty Rose): Diana’s new favorite which she describes as “moldable” and “buildable”.

• e.l.f. Halo Glow Silky Powder Highlighter: Diana’s hadn’t found a hilighter that she liked but she likes this, especially for prom, as “it’s going to show up really well in pictures.”

• Ilia Limitless Mascara: For defined, high-impact lashes.

• Rare Beauty Contour Stick: For seamless facial shaping.

• The Lip Combo: A mix of an Ilia Lip Liner and an Hourglass Lip Gloss.

• Saie Concealer: A staple in her makeup routine.

Three cheers to Diana and her friends for taking us to Prom too 📣

Diana Muzzarelli is a Junior, beauty enthusiast and THE LAB mentee focusing on finding sustainable and cruelty-free products that suit everyday needs. Her favorite brands include Amika, Saie, Tatcha and Ilia.

Here’s a pic of Diana and Avery, another amazing THE LAB mentee…

Twenty-eight years worth of testing suncare in the UK drizzle doesn’t quite hit the same way as testing it in the Florida sunshine pretty much all year round 🪭. And while moving from London to St Pete Beach - as seen on the first 4 episodes of Channel 4’s Escape to Florida - has been an absolute dream, it has also meant that I’m dealing with a UV index that would make any other Beauty Editor nervously scream.

But I believe I’ve found my ultimate SPF lineup for 2026, which includes No7 Future Renew UV Defence Shield SPF 50 - a gorgeous everyday, lightweight makeup primer; Ultra Violette Sequin Supreme Screen SPF 50 - a lovely face cream that adds a really lovely natural glow and Naked Sundays Premium Collagen Peptide SPF 50 Skin Tint - the perfect makeup base for holiday! There are also affordable American drugstore options including Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Body Mist SPF 70 and Target SPF 50 Sport Sunscreen Spray.

📺 Prefer to watch this review? Catch the full unfiltered garden tour (there’s footage of woodpeckers and everything lol) and the product rundowns over on my YouTube channel.

WATCH & SUBSCRIBE ON YOU TUBE HERE

Budget-Friendly Family Sunscreens & Lightweight Body Mists

Target SPF 50 Sport Sunscreen Spray & Lip Balm: Best $5 Budget Family SPF

This can is absolutely massive and reasonably priced at around $5. It’s brilliant for the kids and a brilliant family staple for beach days.

Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Body Mist SPF 70: Weightless Broad-Spectrum Spray

Another fantastic Target find. It goes on sheer, feels weightless on the skin, and offers really high broad-spectrum protection.

Pool Bar London I Scream For Sunscreen SPF50: Scented Sheer Body Mist

A recent discovery that I’m absolutely loving. It goes on completely sheer, a little goes a long way, and it smells gorgeous - like vanilla and coconut ice cream 🍦

Best Everyday Face SPFs & Lightweight Makeup Primers

No7 Future Renew UV Defence Shield SPF 50: Best Lightweight Makeup Primer

This is my go-to everyday SPF. It has a gorgeous, lightweight texture that sinks in instantly, making it a perfect primer for makeup.

Vacation SPF 45 Classic Face Lotion: Hydrating Formula For Dry Skin

A huge fan! I love the retro branding and the formula is gorge too. It has a slightly thicker texture, so if your skin runs a bit dry, you’ll love it. Note: It is scented, so keep that in mind if your skin is sensitive.

Glow-Boosting Sunscreens & High SPF Tinted Coverage

Ultra Violette Sequin Supreme Screen SPF 50: Hydrating Luminous SPF

A beautiful hydrating texture that leaves a stunning, luminous sheen on the skin.

Naked Sundays Collagen Peptide SPF 50 Skin Tint (Shade 3): High-Protection Skin Tint

If you want a bit more coverage with your sun protection, this is fantastic. It’s quite liquid-y, but it evens out the skin tone beautifully.

Naked Sundays SPF50 Golden Glow Glitter Sunscreen Spray: Best Lightweight Shimmer Mist

A lightweight shimmer mist that adds a beautiful, subtle catch in the light to skin.

Naked Sundays PoutScreen Lip Treatment SPF 50 (In the shade ‘Love Letter’): Beautiful Protective High-Shine Gloss

A beautiful protective gloss. It is a tiny bit sticky - as you’d expect from a high-shine gloss - but it keeps lips protected and tinted.

Supergoop! Glow Stick SPF 50: Best Portable Dewy Touch-Up Stick

An invisible, dry oil stick that’s perfect for throwing in your bag and swiping over the top of makeup throughout the day for extra protection and instant dewiness.

What’s your absolute holy grail sunscreen for keeping your skin protected when the weather warms up? Let me know in the comments below!

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The Beauty Ed®’s Note: In my 28 years working in the beauty industry, I’ve seen how makeup can define an era, and in this article, , one of my amazing Gen Z writers from THE LAB gives such an emotionally insightful perspective on the makeup that shaped her youth. She dives deep into the Half Magic x Euphoria collection, explaining how experimenting with the show’s makeup looks shaped her identity growing up, not surprising when you learn her mum was a M.A.C make up artist too. She takes us on an emotional journey while testing the makeup with such amazing attention to detail. From the front rows of Rosalía’s LUX Tour to her technical application of a perfect taupe liner, this is a makeup review like no other! Enjoy 🐞

Why Euphoria (2019) Defined a Generation’s Beauty Identity

There are certain beauty eras that become attached to very specific stages of your life. For me, Euphoria (2019) was one of them.

When the show first reached its cultural peak, I was 15, stuck at home during lockdown, recreating makeup looks ritualistically with my mum, a professional M.A.C makeup artist. At the time, it looked like trend-following from the outside: glitter lids, bold liners, rhinestones pressed onto skin. But looking back, I think it was something more complex than that.

(My favourite 2020 Euphoria look, inspired by my favourite character, Maddy Perez).

Makeup became a way of rehearsing identity before real life properly resumed. It gave structure to a strange period where everything else felt suspended. And Donni Davy (head makeup artist for Euphoria) understood that better than almost anyone working in beauty at the time. The makeup in Euphoria was never simply an aesthetic; every smudged liner, every flushed cheek felt tied to a distinct character and personality.

Now, as Euphoria returns with a much darker cultural conversation surrounding it, I find it interesting how quickly the impact of its beauty has been flattened into ‘TikTok glitter makeup,’ when for many people my age it represented something far more formative: experimentation, confidence, and a form of escapism.

Which is precisely why the new Half Magic Beauty x Euphoria collection feels so nostalgic for its original audience.

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The Half Magic Beauty x Euphoria collection

This collection was kindly sent to me by Donni Davy’s PR team ahead of release, allowing me to test it properly before launch. And the timing could not have been more perfect, because the same week, I had tickets for Rosalía’s LUX Tour.

For anyone unfamiliar: I am a huge Motomami fan.

Rosalía has long been one of my favourite artists, so seeing her crossover into Euphoria Season 3 as the character “Magick” felt almost too aligned with my interests to process normally.

Her makeup in the series is phenomenal, glossy skin, icy shimmers, exaggerated femininity, this perfect tension between softness and theatricality. Naturally, I decided to recreate my own interpretation of Magick’s makeup for the concert.

I knew I wanted pearls to reference the LUX album visuals, cool-toned glitter, flushed skin, and makeup dramatic enough to hold its own against an all-white lace and crochet outfit.

Half Magic Beauty: Why Donni Davy Stands Out in a Crowded Market

This is not the first time I’ve reviewed Half Magic. My previous review focused on the original line and its Sephora UK launch, but this collection confirmed something I already suspected: this brand understands aesthetic identity better than most celebrity-adjacent beauty launches currently on the market.

And I say that as someone incredibly selective with beauty coverage.

Through my editorial work, I receive constant PR packages, but I cherry-pick carefully. Most brands are derivative, Half Magic is not. It has a visual language entirely of its own, and more importantly, it commits to it fully, and nothing feels watered down for mass appeal.

Getting Ready for Rosalía: The Makeup Breakdown

To create the look, I used pre-existing products by Half Magic & the new Half Magic x Euphoria collection, including:

• The Euphoria eyeshadow palette

• Glitterpuck in ‘Feel Something’

• Beam Trap Illuminating Skin Balm

• Half Magic Magic Flik eyeliner

• Sculptitude lip liner in ‘UR MY TAUPE’

• Extra Plush Gloss in ‘BTCH UR MY SOULMATE’

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  Testing the Half Magic x Euphoria Cream Blush and Highlighter Duo

After applying concealer and a skin tint, I began with the blush and highlighter duo, which pairs two iridescent pink shades: ‘You Love to Be Loved (iridescent light pink) and Love Is a Million Things (rosy magenta), inspired by characters: Cassie and Jules.

Truthfully, I initially struggled slightly with the cream blush texture. I tend to favour highly pigmented powder blushes, particularly for dramatic makeup looks, and at first I found myself having to build this up significantly more than expected. Using my fingers wasn’t giving enough effect, so I switched to a brush and layered gradually until I reached the intensity I wanted.

The highlighter especially surprised me. It felt weightless on the skin, creating this glossy, reflective finish that looked luminous rather than glittery. Slightly wet-looking in the best possible sense. It worked perfectly for the kind of flushed, hyper-feminine skin Euphoria is known for, particularly the softer glow associated with Cassie Howard. For anyone who loves luminous skin and that polished ‘no-makeup makeup’ finish, this formula is great.

The Eyeshadow Palette Is the Standout Product

The eyes were heavily inspired by Rosalía’s character, Magick.

I started with a pink-nude base before layering pale cream tones underneath, then went in with the new palette, which ended up being my favourite product from the entire collection. The pigmentation was exceptional.

I used the shade Lexi, pressing it onto the lids with a flat brush, and genuinely did not need to supplement it with any additional glitter shadows. By the time I built the colour fully, it looked ethereal under light, shifting between shimmer and reflective foil depending on movement.

It made me feel fairy-like, which is exactly what I wanted. The cool-toned shimmer paired beautifully with my white outfit, and overall, this palette absolutely met my expectations.

Does the Half Magic Glitterpuck Survive a 7-Hour Concert?

Next came the Glitterpuck, inspired by Season 1 Rue in ‘Feel Something.’

The Glitterpuck was already one of my favourite products from my first Half Magic review, and this new shade only reinforced that opinion. The formula has this soft, cushion-like texture that sits somewhere between a gel and a pressed pigment, making it incredibly easy to apply.

The shade itself is stunning: frosted white with iridescent lilac and pale blue reflects that catches light constantly. And importantly, it lasts.

I wore this makeup to the O2 for Rosalía’s concert in a completely packed arena, through heat, dancing, sweating, and seven straight hours of wear. The glitter genuinely did not move. In fact, removing it later became its own challenge. That durability alone makes it worth mentioning.

✨Half Magic’s Glitterpucks were also used on Rosalía herself during filming for Euphoria. Whilst her look used Cyber Diamond, the effect is similar: dimensional, wet-look glitter that makes you feel like you are coated in fairy dust.

The Eyeliner and Lip Combo

For liner, I used the Half Magic Beauty Magic Flik liquid liner. The pigmentation is almost marker-like: intensely black and sharp enough for dramatic liner. It worked brilliantly for the outer eye, especially layered against glitter. The only thing I struggled with slightly was the inner corner precision, where I switched to my M.A.C Brushstroke liner instead because the tip was finer.

Then came the pearls…

I applied adhesive pearls underneath the lower lash line and beside my brows, for a slightly surreal, mermaid-like finish. To amplify the look further, I added an old discontinued Make Up For Ever loose glitter containing pale blue and lilac reflects that paired perfectly with the Rue Glitterpuck.

Finally, for my lips, I lined them using Sculptitude in UR MY TAUPE, which Donni Davy herself confirmed on Instagram was used on Rosalía’s character, Magick. The liner is double-ended with taupe on one side and black on the other, making it ideal for sculpting and deepening the lip shape.

I then layered the new ‘BTCH UR MY SOULMATE’ gloss over the top. (Inspired by one of the show’s most iconic scenes).

The gloss is gorgeous: deep rosy-brown, almost like a lacquered version of M.A.C’s ‘Velvet Teddy.’ What impressed me most was the pigmentation. I did not need lipstick underneath whatsoever. Everything glided on effortlessly and it was reapplied throughout the concert.

Final Thoughts: Why Half Magic is More Than Just Nostalgia

What Half Magic continues to understand better than many beauty brands is that makeup is emotional.

People are not buying these products purely because they want shimmer or liner. They are buying into memory, identity and nostalgia. Into the feeling of becoming a heightened version of yourself for an evening.

And perhaps that sounds dramatic, but so is Euphoria. The difference is that Half Magic manages to translate that drama into products that actually function in real life too.

Since me and my family appeared on Channel 4’s Escape to Florida, I’ve been asked the same question again and again: “What should I actually buy when I visit the States?”

It’s a question I love, and have been asked many times before, but even I find the beauty aisles overwhelming. When I moved from London to St. Pete Beach back in 2021, I was thrilled to have a CVS and Walgreens at the top of my road. And having spent decades writing beauty for titles like The Daily Mail and Cosmopolitan, and serving as the Beauty Editor for Boots back home, I thought I knew every product on the planet.

But the American drugstore is a different beast entirely. They are packed full of products that I have never even heard of. And the walls of mascaras and lip glosses are overwhelming! But now that I’m properly “boots on the ground” in Florida, I’ve spent the last few years exploring the shelves at Target, CVS and Walgreens to find the US exclusives that are actually worth your suitcase space for the flight back home to Blighty.

So this is why in this week's episode of Smiling Gives You Wrinkles®, I’m sharing the products that me and my British friends love to buy.

The Beauty Ed® Approved Shopping List

1. The Target Cult Favorites

• Vacation® Sun Care: The Classic Whip SPF 30 is a mousse that is fun to use and feels gorgeous too. My British friend Bridgette bought a can of this the last time she visited me in Florida, and now she is obsessed. I always stock up on the Classic Spray SPF50 - it smells like holiday ☀️ Also, look for the Chardonnay Lip Oil and the Original Scent Candle.

• Odele Haircare: I swear by the Air Dry Styler. It controls the frizz in my wavy hair and manages the Florida humidity without any stickiness or crunch.

• Pixi & e.l.f. Exclusives: The e.l.f and Pixi US selections are often months ahead of the UK. Look for the Pixi Hello Kitty limited editions and the full range of e.l.f. Halo Glow shades.

2. The Skincare Staples (CVS, Walgreens & Walmart)

• CeraVe US-Only Formulas: You can’t always find the SA Body Wash (the “chicken skin” smoother) or the Skin Renewing Retinol Serum (purple label) in the UK. Stock up here.

• Olay Body Wash & Body Lotion: Jumbo sizes with skincare-first ingredients like retinol and hyaluronic acid.

• Maybelline Baby Lips: This is one my best friend Leah buys all the time. Specifically, the cherry shade in the orange and red packaging. They are tinted lip balms that leave a really lovely wash of color on the lips.

• Secret Deodorant: This is one Leah bulk-buys too. And she got me addicted. We love the Powder Fresh version.

• Aquaphor Ointment Body Spray: Listen to my podcast for the full story on why I love this. It’s a touch-free way to soothe dry skin and grazes. It’s antibacterial too.

• Neutrogena Glow Perfect Pen: A fantastic, budget-friendly dupe for the YSL Touche Éclat.

3. The “Boring” But Brilliant Essentials

• Welly Band-Aids: I’m obsessed with these and get all my British friends to buy them. They come in the cutest tins and actually stay put.

• Tide To Go Pens: I’m clumsy, my kids are clumsy - these pens are handbag essentials for instant stain removal.

• Advil PM & Melatonin: My secret weapon for the flight back to London to beat the jet lag.

Which of these are you most excited to try? Or did I miss your favorite US find? Let me know in the comments!

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Anyone that’s been following me for a while knows that I absolutely love Jones Road Beauty. I’ve adored the brand since they first launched Miracle Balm in 2020, and so when they send me something to try, I am genuinely honored - it makes me feel seen and respected.

Because even after 28 years in the industry, I often feel invisible because of my age. But Jones Road is a brand that celebrates women of all ages - it celebrates you being you. Bobbi Brown, the founder, is a makeup artist that I’ve followed for my whole career and I love everything that she stands for.

Just like Bobbi, I want people to get used to seeing real skin again. That’s really important to me. Especially as I age. I have been campaigning for real skin my whole career; I even introduced a no-retouch policy while I worked at Boots UK, so I don’t want makeup that offers thick coverage. I want really blend-able textures that won’t mask your natural skin texture.

I’m also someone that doesn’t have Botox. I’ve got wrinkles. And I’m proud of them! But I don’t want my makeup to sit in them. It’s ok that they are there, but I don’t want my skin to appear creasy or cake-y. Often, foundation sticks can be very drying. But I want my skin to look nourished, plump, and hydrated - not tight and dehydrated.

I just want my skin to look like my skin.

My first thoughts about the NEW! Jones Road Beauty Your Skin Foundation Stick

Jones Road sent me the Medium and Medium Warm shades to try. And it turns out Medium was perfect for my skin tone.

Before I get into how the product feels and looks on my skin, I must say I’m loving the “click factor” of the packaging - it’s so satisfying when a lid magnetically clips on -it screams quality - plus it’s reassuring that it won’t spill and smudge into my bag.

The weekend that I first tested it, I’d been in the sun. I live in Florida, so I’ve got a little pigmentation and some redness around my nose. First impressions? How smooth and silky it feels as it glides over your skin. And how it makes your skin look so rested, healthy and just alive!

I applied it straight from the stick and blended it in with my fingers. And wow, it felt pretty amazing! I can’t believe how it glides on with no chalky feeling. You know how sometimes when you apply foundation, your fingers kind of get static? There’s none of that with this.

I was really impressed how it covered my pigmentation too. I don’t really want to hide it dramatically; I just want my skin to look more even. It gives beautiful coverage.

I’ve got a bit of redness on my nose, and it toned it down nicely. I remember a makeup artist saying to me: “Don’t put too much foundation on your nose,” especially as you get older because pores get enlarged and product can sit in them. But there is none of that here.

And did it pass the wrinkle test? There was no caking at all. It actually just gives skin a really lovely, even finish; it just doesn’t look like you’ve got any makeup on.

I’m going to be 50 in a month, and this is the kind of product that is going to be in my makeup bag, I’m sure, for the next 50 years. If I’m lucky enough to get there! It makes my skin looking pretty good - not bad for someone who doesn’t have Botox.

Thanks, Jones Road ✨

The NEW Jones Road Beauty Your Skin Foundation Stick is out today, 12th May 2026

THE LAB is my student mentorship program that encourages Gen A and Gen Z students to write and create beauty content with freedom, honesty, thoughtfulness and joy. This is not about pleasing algorythms or advertisers - this is an opportunity for them to have fun with beauty in their own individual way ♡

THE LAB’S GLOSSIER YOU SOIE REVIEW

So when I asked them to review the new Glossier You Soie fragrance, what did they do? They went straight to the heartbeat of their daily lives - the hallways in their high school - to strip back the marketing fluff and ask their friends, teachers and even the school cooks🧑‍🍳 how the product smells, and also, just as importantly, how it makes them feel.

Diana presented, produced and edited this brilliant video - it’s raw, it’s refreshing, and it is a lot of fun!

Thanks Diana 🫶🏼

Have any of you tried the new Glossier fragrance? Would love to know in the comments 👇🏼

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Since Escape To Florida aired on Channel 4 this week, I’ve had a flurry of new followers (hello - I am so grateful that you are here) and a few have been asking about my skincare routine. A Beauty Editor living in Florida? One that also admittedly ‘enjoys the sun’? What do you use on your skin?

After 28 years of testing skincare, my own routine isn’t as complicated as you’d expect. And I have a healthy expectation for the results that skincare can give. I don’t trust anything that says it’s ‘botox in a bottle’ - it’s impossible for a cream to freeze your muscles. I don’t like any product that promises to ‘anti-age’ me either. So why on earth would I want to be anti-age? What’s the alternative? A coffin?

I don’t have time for fluff, but at 49, I do expect my skincare to tick a few boxes:

🪭 I want to enjoy using it

🪭 I want it to feel good

🪭 I want it to hydrate and nourish. Aging skin = dry skin.

🪭 I want to look the best I can for my age.

I don’t have botox or injectables and I am trying to show women that there is a way to love the skin you are in as you age. I know it’s not easy but it is possible. We all know that it’s about what goes on the inside that truly reflects on the outside right? And skincare can 100% help for glow, hydration and texture - but it can do nothing if you’re ugly inside.

Anyway, here is my full 24-hour skin routine…

A 49 Year Old Beauty Editor’s Morning Skincare Basics

I get up at 5:30am for my 6:15am gym class (I know, I know - but it’s literally transformed my mental health). So I essentially do my skincare twice. Once before the gym and once after I get out of the shower:

Pre-Gym: I only rinse my face in the morning as I thoroughly cleanse the night before. Then I apply a lightweight serum. At the moment, I’m using The Inkey List Ectoin Hydro Barrier Serum, and for an extra layer of hydration, I follow with a moisturiser. Not often I use the same brand, but it happens and I am also loving The Inkey List Bioactive Ceramide Repairing and Plumping Moisturizer

Post-Gym: After my shower, I cannot get dressed until I apply body cream all over. We buy CeraVe Daily Moisturizing Lotion in bulk as the whole family uses it. I use it on my face too when I’m not testing other face creams. What I love about it, is that it is developed by dermatologists and works on all skin - even the most sensitive.

To my face, I apply serum again and always follow with SPF. Minimum 30. At the moment I am loving No7 Future Renew Defense Shield SPF 50. It’s a great primer for makeup - no white cast and really lightweight but still nourishing. Talking of makeup, to finish off I am loving the Victoria Beckham Beauty Foundation Drops(I use Shade 5 Light) right now. You can read my review on them here:

A 49 Year Old Beauty Editor’s Evening Routine

This is when I do my thorough cleanse. I love a balm cleanser as they are so luxurious and give you and your skin a micro spa moment in the evening. But right now I am testing out this cream cleanser: SkinCeuticals Gentle Cleanser Cream which feels very lightweight but still removes all of the makeup, dirt and oil your skin has gathered during the day.

I then follow with Medik8 Crystal Retinal 10 which is in my opinion, one of the best retinoids out there. This helps to keep my skin smooth and glowy, and alos it’s great for banking and boosting your collagen levels. The stuff that makes your skin look plump and glowy. If my skin feels tight afterwards, I follow with Estée Lauder Advanced Night Repair. This is a product I always recommend my friends too!

And that’s it! If you want to listen to my podcast where I talk you through the whole routine then click here ♡

: I had very mixed feelings watching The Met, fully in my Miranda Priestly headspace, despite being in pyjamas in bed the entire time.

: Whenever I watch it, I just keep thinking about how these people are going to go to the loo. Or sit down.

: I do feel like lots of celebs just ignore the theme and wear whatever.

: Oh there’s a theme? What is it?

MET GALA 2026: FASHION IS ART…

: Oh!

THE MET GALA 2026 LOOKS WE LOVED

: Hunter Schafer wore a custom Prada inspired by ‘Mäda Primavesi’ which is a painting by Austrain painter Gustave Klimt, all soft floral chiffon with that trailing train behind her. I loved the bow in her hair, a quiet echo of the painting, and the makeup (flushed cheeks, pale blue shadow) gave her this almost porcelain, doll-like look.

: Who is Hunter Schafer?

quickly googles

: Oh she’s in Euphoria…ok! I Loved Kim K’s look. I know who she is lol. Elevated ridiculousness as per usual! Felt like her unbrushed hair perfectly counteracted her cosplay style nipple’d body suit. Loved the colour of her hair too. Trashy in a good way vibes…

: Zoe Kravitz looked amazing but shame we didn’t get a better look at the ring 💍

: Gracie Abrams wore gold Chanel, and just like Hunter, she was clearly referencing another of Austrian painter Gustav’s most renowned works, ‘The Kiss’. It worked so well on the carpet, the detailing, the halter neckline, the way the gems caught the light as she moved.

: Who is Gracie Abrams?

: 🫣

: Loved Sabrina Carpenter’s look probably because I ADORE Audrey Hepburn

: I want to grow my hair as long as Nicole Kidmans’…

: Bad Bunny looked super chic and love that the outfit was just Zara - but I’m confused at why he had old man prosthetics on lol…

: I want that bubble blowing dress - not sure who the woman was that was wearing it!

: I think Paloma Elsesser was most on theme and looked gorg…

: Who is Paloma Elesser?

We’d love to know what Met Gala looks you loved? Even if you didn’t know who was wearing them 🤣

Leave a comment

If you’ve followed my work or read my columns over the years, you’ll know it doesn’t take fancy packaging or over-the-top marketing to sway my skincare purchasing (or recommending) decisions. I’ve spent my career testing everything from creams that contain 24k gold (yep, really) to facials that inject salmon sperm in your skin (also yep, really). But one of the products I swear by for everyone contains none of these rare materials or animal parts - it’s just a cheap, basic-ly packaged product. But it works SO WELL...

Yep, it’s a humble tub (or can) of Aquaphor.

I first discovered its brilliance during a chaotic family emergency in Florida, and last week, when a new serum left my lips cracked and sore, it was the only thing that helped. After a quick WhatsApp call with dermatologist Dr. Justine Kluk, this is how this humble ointment repaired my ‘leaky’ skin barrier.

The Walgreens Find: A Dermatologist-Recommended Staple

I was waiting in line at Walgreens just over four years ago with my mum who was visiting for her and my dad’s annual 3 month (!) stay over Christmas. She’d had a nasty fall that left her with a dislocated shoulder, a hospital stay, and a sudden diagnosis of atrial fibrillation. Yep, it was stressful.

We were waiting in the queue (or line I should say 🇺🇸) for the pharmacist to help with her painful grazes when a dermatologist - who was very handsome lol - asked us what was wrong. How lovely!

Handsome derm insisted that we should pick up a can of spray-on Aquaphor. He said it’s great for soothing open wounds and grazes like my mum had, without the need for rubbing it into skin. He also explained that it’s brilliant for healing because it has amazing antibacterial properties too. Who knew?

And it was so easy for my mum to use. It absorbed into her skin really quickly and she healed really fast! I keep a can handy all the time for emergencies now…

My Red-Alert Lip Emergency: When Skincare Goes Wrong

Then last week, my lips were really really sore. This has never happened to me before and this sudden irritation came on overnight. They were cracked, dry, looked bright pink and felt so tight and irritated. As this came on so quickly I wondered if it was because of a new Vitamin C serum that I’d tried the night before. That was all that I’d done differently.

So in the car on my way to a soccer tournament with my son, I WhatsApped my favourite dermatologist, Dr. Justine Kluk a video of what they looked like and asked for her opinion…

“The Vitamin C could cause that, either by irritating the skin directly, or acting as an aggravating factor - it might be that your lips were already on the edge, and the Vitamin C just tipped them over the threshold,” explained Dr. Kluk.

Her solution? An ‘occlusive’ product that keeps the moisture in and external irritants out.

The ‘Leaky Wall’: Dr. Justine Kluk on Skin Barrier Repair

“If you think of irritated skin as a leaky wall, it lets moisture out much more easily, so the area gets dry. But it also lets things that you apply to the skin penetrate more easily - like toothpaste or skincare ingredients - which then irritates the skin further.”

Thanks as always Dr. Kluk!

So when I got home, I ditched the Vitamin C, and I reached for some Aquaphor!

But this time it was the ointment version which has a texture like Vaseline. I knew it would help but I didn’t realize how quickly it would get my lips on the mend. Literally less than 48 hours later they were soft again and not one bit sore.

Why Aquaphor Remains My Skincare Holy Grail

There is a lip version one too, but I knew that on this occasion I needed the richer ointment. They literally have all different versions - sticks, tubs, sprays - so if you’re in any kind of skin emergency, you can have one handy 24/7!

Can’t recommend enough!

Sharing is caring 🫶🏼

I didn’t record any of it. Not the mixing, not the freezing - none of it.

Which is kind of ironic because that was the plan for this body butter: buy ingredients, mix, freeze, blend, and record the process.

Somewhere between deciding measurements and trying my best to not mess up, making content completely slipped my mind. I was laser focused on what exactly I was making - and making it right.

Why is Gen Z choosing intentional, unrecorded beauty?

I didn’t start this process simply for a video. I wanted to craft something that genuinely worked for my skin. When purchasing store bought products always turned into a hit or miss, I wanted something that radiated with simplicity, naturality, and my own touch.

I also needed a physical project for one of my class assignments, and making body butter was the perfect add on to my project. But, I also had been wanting to make body butter for a while. Homemade body butter has been all over my feed and as a curious, easily influenced, prone to dry skin person, I knew I had to make it.

So that’s what I did!

What are the skincare benefits of raw yellow shea butter?

The product wasn’t perfect in any way whatsoever. And it got messy as I was figuring things out in the midst of mixing. By the time I had finished, the kitchen was covered in powder, oil, and the aroma of shea butter (which was kind of bad but worth it for how my product turned out).

True, raw shea butter doesn’t smell like perfume or have an initial sweetness. The closest thing I can compare the smell to is an earthy, smoky wood smell. But what matters most is that this body butter was made with intention, love, and genuinity.

And of course, I couldn’t do this alone. I had my mom by my side. She let me take the lead but stayed nearby at all times as she knew how much I wanted this product to be a success. At one point, although I already added some, she suggested adding more arrowroot powder which seemed small but completely changed everything: but not in a good way.

Arrowroot powder is an ingredient that makes the texture feel more like butter and less like oil. But it seemed like this ingredient wasn’t exactly doing its job.. As my mom poured and I blended, the consistency didn’t change. Every time I applied a little on my skin, I didn’t need to rub it in because of how oily it was.

I lost hope and decided to package it in a glass container, and leave it alone in my bathroom, a place cool and refreshing, until it sat for about a day.

How to use arrowroot powder for a non-greasy body butter texture?

The next day, to my surprise, thanks to the arrowroot powder (and my mom), my butter transformed into this extremely soft, soothing, whipped body butter that felt rich and smooth without the extra heaviness and greasy feeling some body butters leave.

The best part? I knew exactly what I was putting on my skin!

How do you formulate a natural whipped body butter at home?

🌟What Went Into My Butter🌟

• 1 pound of yellow unrefined shea butter (yes, it was yellow, but it still had the same affect)

• ¼ cup of unrefined coconut oil

• Palmers coconut oil

• Arrowroot powder

• My thoughts and prayers 🫶🏼

  ---

How To Turn This List Into a Real Product 👇🏼

1. First, boil the unrefined shea butter by boiling a pot of water and placing a glass container with the shea butter on top of the pot

2. Once all of it is almost to a boil, add the coconut oil and boil that as well

3. Let it cool down and add your desired amount of oil (doesn’t have to be palmers but make sure it’s safe for skin) along with a 1 teaspoon of arrowroot powder

4. Place melted butter and oil in freezer for about 30 minutes or until the top hardens a little

5. Take butter out of the freezer and mix with an electric mixer until the consistency is not oily but if it’s more oily than your liking, add more arrowroot powder like my mom!

TIP: don’t worry if the texture is still not to where you want it. Try letting it sit overnight in a cool place and come back to it in the morning!

It didn’t contain any overcomplicated formulas or ingredients that I had no idea how to pronounce. Just simple things that worked successfully together and did what I needed them to do.

In society today, everything feels like it needs to be recorded, edited, documented, and posted. And this wasn’t. It was purely experimental, extremely messy, and completely undocumented.

And to be honest, not everything has to be instantly captured to be true and to matter. And look how great it turned out!

Donyae Hazley is a high school Junior, pianist and THE LAB mentee focusing on finding a minimal skincare routine that best suits her skin. Her beauty supply consists of skincare like Panoxyl, Differin, Anua and The Inkey List along with an occassional appearance of e.l.f Concealer and Blush.

The Beauty Ed®’s Note: I’ve spent my career championing a "real skin" and honest approach to beauty, long before "unfiltered" became a trending hashtag. And my mission with The Beauty Ed® has always been to be transparent with our reviews too and this is exactly what I’m teaching the next generation of beauty voices in THE LAB, my media mentorship program. In this post, Gen Z contributor puts the viral Rhode Bieberchella drop to the test and you can be sure that her review of the Spotwear Patches and Caramelised Banana Peptide Lip Treatment meets the rigorous, honest standards I’ve stood by for nearly three decades. Over to …Enjoy 🍄

The Verdict: Testing Rhode’s Limited-Edition ‘Bieberchella’ Drop

I’ve always been sceptical of celebrity beauty brands. Not dismissive, but cautious, particularly in an industry so saturated with names trading on recognition rather than formulation. So for the longest time, I resisted Rhode.

And then came Bieberchella.

Timed, deliberately alongside Coachella and Justin Bieber’s performance, Rhode’s limited-edition drop dominated my feed. What began as passive scrolling turned, rather quickly, into a purchase. Proof, if any were needed, that even the most resistant among us are not immune to well-executed marketing.

Why Rhode Beauty Keeps Selling Out: The Marketing Strategy Behind Bieberchella

Following its reported $1 billion acquisition by , Rhode has entered a new phase of visibility.

The brand understands its world: pared-back luxury, sensorial language, and a lifestyle that feels both aspirational and oddly attainable. Products are described as buttery, melting, treat-like, language that deliberately blurs the line between beauty and indulgence.

It is not simply about selling products; it promises a lifestyle that feels desirable and emotionally resonant, and, crucially, one that is consistent.

Rhode x Bieber: What’s in the Limited-Edition Collection?

The Rhode Bieberchella drop includes three core products:

• Spotwear Hydrocolloid Pimple Patches

• Peptide Eye Prep (Banana Peel edition)

• Peptide Lip Treatment (Caramelised Banana)

I tested each over the course of a week, across different skin concerns, and routines, to see whether they hold up beyond the aesthetic.

1. Do the Rhode Spotwear Hydrocolloid Patches Actually Work?

I am, admittedly, loyal to pimple patches as a category. Not just because they work, but because of what they do beyond that. They minimise scarring, draw everything out overnight, and (perhaps most importantly) they make breakouts feel manageable. There is something reassuring about covering a spot rather than constantly worrying about aggravating it.

I tend to move between the two extremes: colourful, visible patches when I don’t particularly care who sees them, and clear, almost invisible ones when I’m wearing makeup. Both have their place, and I’ve tried enough to know when something is genuinely good.

These had been teased for months, not least by Hailey Bieber herself, so expectations were high. They’re 100% hydrocolloid, fragrance-free, and, crucially, marketed as both sweat and water-resistant.

What I didn’t expect to fall for, but did, was the design element. The patches come in a range of shapes, with several featuring the Rhode branding at the centre. It’s clever: part skincare, part collectable. I gravitated immediately towards the daisy and jelly bean designs and ordered both!

What started as a single purchase quickly escalated. I initially bought the spotwear patches, and within two days had ordered the full Rhode x the Biebers Set (£56/$56).

Which includes:

• 36 Spotwear patches of your choice

• 6 sets of Peptide Eye Prep in Banana Peel

• Peptide Lip Treatment in Caramelised Banana

  ---

Testing them properly

I tested these across different types of breakouts to get a realistic sense of performance.

1. Under-the-skin spots: I had two particularly aggressive ones that would usually last up to two weeks. The redness and swelling dropped from 9/10 to around 5/10 after one use. Not gone, but significantly calmer.

2. Surface-level spots (ready to extract): This is where they performed best. The patches drew out impurities 85% of the time overnight.

Wear time + durability: I wore them from evening through to the following day, and they remained completely intact. No lifting at the edges and no peeling, which is rare.

I also tested them in less forgiving conditions: hot showers, steam, and long wear, and they did not budge.

How to apply Rhode Spotwear patches for best results:

Application is straightforward, but matters:

• Apply to freshly cleansed, completely dry skin

• Place directly over the blemish

• Leave on for 6-8 hours or overnight

Each pack costs £16/$16 contains 36 patches, stored in a reusable, compact case, which makes them easy to carry without them drying out or getting damaged, particularly useful if you are travelling.

Overall, I really enjoyed these. Not just because they look good, but because they deliver.

They stay put, they work across different types of breakouts, and they remove the usual frustrations I have with pimple patches (lifting, slipping, ineffectiveness).

They are, admittedly, on the pricier side. But in terms of performance, they justify it.

The Beauty Ed® Quick Verdict: 8.5/10

2. Rhode Peptide Eye Prep Banana Peel Review: Are the viral 'Bieberchella' eye patches worth the investment?

Eye patches are notoriously unreliable. Most slide, separate, or require constant adjustment, which is precisely why I stopped using them.

These do not. They adhere firmly without discomfort and remain in place throughout wear, making them far more practical than traditional gel patches.

What they do well:

• Visibly reduce puffiness

• Brighten the under-eye area (notably effective on darker circles)

• Deliver a cooling, hydrating finish

Formulated with caffeine and peptides, they sit comfortably within the current shift towards skincare-led makeup prep.

There is also, undeniably, a performative element; they photograph well, they imply routine and feel part of a wider aesthetic. I will certainly be wearing them on my next flight. But I don’t see that as a drawback; after all, beauty has always been, in part, visual language.

Verdict: Effective, comfortable, and aesthetic, though not essential and on the pricier side.

They cost £25/$25 for a set of 6.

The Beauty Ed® Quick Verdict: 6.5/10

3. Is The Rhode Caramlised Banana Peptide Lip Treatment Grainy Or Smooth?

I had held off trying Rhode’s peptide lip treatments for some time. The reviews were noticeably divided; some swore by them, while others described a grainy texture and a slightly sticky finish.

So I approached this one with a degree of scepticism.

The limited-edition Caramelised Banana felt like a great starting point. And in all honesty, it exceeded expectations. The texture is genuinely smooth, gliding across the lips without any of the unevenness I had anticipated. It sits comfortably between a balm and a gloss and is very hydrating.

I’ve used more of it than I care to admit in a very short space of time, which, for me, is usually the clearest measure of success.

The scent is also worth noting. It is distinctly reminiscent of banana cake, warm and softly sweet, without being too overpowering.

What has struck me most, however, is how instinctively I reach for it. It has found a place both by my bedside and on my desk, and I have been using it throughout the day without much thought.

That, more than anything, tends to be the deciding factor!

Rhode Caramlised Banana Peptide Lip Treatment costs £20/$20

The Beauty Ed® Quick Verdict: 8/10

Is Rhode Worth It? An Honest Editor’s Verdict After Testing the Bieber Drop

Rhode succeeds where many celebrity brands falter: it understands both product and perception.

There is intelligence behind the timing, the language, the visuals, but also, crucially, a level of performance that justifies the attention.

For those interested, I’ve written more on Rhode previously; those pieces are linked below, and there’s more on my Instagram: giainthefittingroom. I’d be genuinely curious to hear where others land on this drop: whether it lived up to expectation, or simply proved how persuasive good branding can be.

There is certainly more to come from me on Rhode!

-Gia 🌼

If there’s one topic that always gets a passionate discussion going on my podcast, Smiling Gives You Wrinkles®, it’s makeup. As a beauty editor with 28 years of experience, I’ve tried so many different formulas and textures, and now as I reach 50, I’m always looking for ones that offer coverage without settling into every fine line and wrinkle.

I recently had Consultant Dermatologist Dr. Justine Kluk, an acne specialist, on the show. I absolutely adore Justine, not just because she is a great doctor and lovely person, but also because she is totally trustworthy when it comes to beauty recommendations. There is no hidden agenda when she recommends a product. Just a wish to be genuinely helpful. And this is one of the main reasons I started The Beauty Ed®. I love sharing products that are vetted by experts and are not a paid or sponsored pick.

In this episode about teen skincare, Justine and I digressed slightly off topic when she shared a few things that are in her makeup bag. And I was really interested to hear about her favourite concealers. Because I know that when a dermatologist with her expertise and who has immaculately flawless skin drops a recommendation, you have to listen!

Dr. Kluk’s Top 2 Concealer Picks for Teen and Adult Skin

Dr. Kluk named two winning concealers that she says are great for adult and teen skin: the Nars Soft Matte Concealer and the Dior Forever Skin Correct Concealer.

She calls the Dior one is “amazing.”

I had to ask her why it’s so incredible, and she gave us the full breakdown, while admitting that she was wearing it during our chat.

🎬 Watch this clip from Smiling Gives You Wrinkles® (she slips in a couple of other recs here too)

Where to Place Concealer on Adult Skin

Justine applies concealer strategically: under her eyes, around the corners of her nose, on the sides of her mouth, and on her chin - basically, everywhere the shadows start to creep in once you hit your 40s.

But the real magic she says is the texture of both of these concealers. Texture is so important, especially for anyone dealing with spots or creasing.

The Formula Breakdown: Why Texture Matters for Creasing and Acne

Here’s why she swears by the Dior one: “It’s creamy. It doesn’t get stuck in creases. It doesn’t dry up or flake off. It’s really easy to blend in. I just tap it with my fingers. And the texture is really nice. It goes on really nice and smooth and it gives decent coverage,” she told me.

NARS vs. Dior: Which One is Better for Spots?

While she loves the Dior one for larger, shadowy areas, Dr. Kluk pointed out that the NARS Soft Matte Concealer is actually better for building up coverage, specifically recommending it for teen and adult spots/acne.

It’s easy to hop onto an app and let an AI filter give you a list of top-rated concealers. But algorithms often miss the nuance of adult and teenage skin - the need for a creamy, non-settling texture that handles fine lines and flaky breakouts. That’s why having Dr. Kluk’s personal recommendations are priceless.

Why Trust This Review? My 28 Year Beauty Industry Expertise

The Beauty Ed®’s Note: Having been in the industry for almost 3 decades, and having tested hundreds if not thousands of makeup bases during that time, it takes a lot to impress me. Plus I am not a snooty beauty purchaser. I don’t buy just because a product is endorsed by a celebrity, or comes with a designer label. As much as I love Victoria, that’s not the reason I wanted to try these drops.

I wanted to review them because I know many of you feel the same way I do: we aren’t necessarily looking to “fix” every sign of aging. We can live with a few fine lines, and while the jowls are slowly creeping in, we’re doing our best to embrace them. And this foundation tint promises just that: it’s not there to offer heavy coverage to disguise every flaw, it is formulated with premium skincare to help us make the most of the skin we are in.

Ultimately, when I look in the mirror each morning, I just want my skin to glow. I want it to look healthy, rested, and radiant. I don’t mind looking 49 (or 50 in a month - eek!), but I want my skin to look the absolute best it can for its age.

The Price Tag: Worth the Hype?

Okay, let’s first address the elephant in the room: $110/£104 is a LOT to spend on a palm-sized bottle of liquid foundation. I mean, even when my local supermarket is selling eggs for $14 for a dozen (crazy), it is still hard to justify this spend. This puts it squarely in the luxury category, but, as someone who has tested high-end formulas for decades, I can say it’s still competitive; for context, Chanel’s premium Sublimage L’Essence de Teint, which is meant to be its nearest competitor, is priced around $180/143.

The Victoria Beckham x Augustinus Bader Partnership

But the price of this foundation has nothing to do with inflation. No, it’s because this isn’t just any foundation! It’s a Victoria Beckham foundation. And love her or loathe her (I am firmly in the love her category which I hope will not skew this review) everything she works on is driven by a quest for perfection.

The Victoria Beckham Beauty Foundation Drops with TFC8® are a natural follow-up to The Concealer Pen that the brand launched last year which I haven’t tried but I know that they both use the premium skincare technology created by Augustinus Bader. Who, for those of you who don’t know, is a skincare scientist and developer of the brands’ signature TFC8 technology. This is the reason these aren’t just any old foundation drops!

From a marketing stand point, this partnership explains the high price point. A pot of Augustinus Badar The Rich Cream is $315/£250 for 50ml so the foundation had to compete with that. Plus Victoria Beckham is a premium brand name. Even her new Gap collaboration is elevated when it comes to price - albeit in a high street way. Plain white T shirts are $38 while you can pick up a basic one for around $20. So a mark up is expected.

Decoding TFC8®: Skincare as a GPS for Your Cells

TFC8 stands for Trigger Factor Complex 8 which is a high-tech blend of natural amino acids, which are basically the building blocks of the skin, high-grade vitamins, and molecules that effectively act like a car GPS for your skin. They guide key nutrients directly to the skin’s cells to create the best, most optimised environment for your skin to renew itself and heal.

So basically, this foundation is designed to give your skin a flawless look as soon as you apply it, while working hard behind-the-scenes to treat and heal it deep down. So in effect the more you wear it, the less you need it.

Application and Results: A Second-Skin Finish

So the first thing, I noticed was the packaging. So chic! Of course. The lacquered shiny black bottle with the pop of royal blue on the lid makes any tatty makeup bag look elevated.

I was kindly gifted this particular bottle so I was unsure of my shade when the PR offered to send it. But once I clicked onto the Victoria Beckham Beauty website, I found that the shade selection was impressive and fairly easy to navigate. There are not too many so you don’t get overwhelmed, but just enough to find your match. I decided on Shade 5 Light. It’s helpful that when you hover over each shade you are shown a different model that matches that skin tone.

The texture is just as I expected, lightweight and easily blendable. I applied about three drops with my fingertips using lightweight strokes, and as you can see from the video below, they melted into my skin so beautifully. The texture doesn’t feel like makeup, and so I was wondering as I was applying them, if they would actually make a huge difference to how my skin looked.

But that’s the point.

This foundation is not meant to fully cover. It is meant to enhance what you already have. And that’s why I love it. It feels like a second skin and looks like your skin but better. It lets your pores show through but minimizes any redness. It melts away unevenness but still lets your natural texture shine. Even though my skin is in pretty good condition considering I live in sun-drenched Florida, I was worried it would not cover up any pigmentation I have or redness around my nose. But it did. The coverage lasted all day too.

But what I loved the most is how the drops made my skin feel. They are so lightweight that you don’t feel like you’re wearing anything. As someone who doesn’t wear a lot of makeup and as I age, I actually wear less, so this is important. It really does feel like skincare.

The Verdict: Is It Worth The $110 Investment?

Verdict: Yes, if you view it as an elevated skincare investment that happens to be a foundation.

The only slight drawback for me is the lack of SPF. Living in Florida, sun protection is non-negotiable, but I suspect this was a conscious formulation decision on VB’s part - maybe to maintain the integrity of the TFC8 technology?

Look, I know it’s expensive and we are in the midst of a cost of living crisis, but here’s my personal take: I don’t spend my money on botox or other injectables, so if I’m going to invest in my skin, especially if it’s something I am going to be applying most days, I want it to be something premium. Something that makes me feel good and look great!

Lady V is a great role model for how to approach 50 with elegance, class and grace and I think she radiates it from the inside out. She has just turned 51, and I think she looks amazing. She’s always been open about her skin struggles in the past, which makes her current glow even more achievable for the rest of us. Yes, she has a glam squad around her 24/7, but if I can capture a fraction of her effortless glow, I’m in!