The Beauty Ed®’s Note: As a beauty journalist with over 25 years experience, I have witnessed how the ‘viral skincare’ trend has changed how we shop. But let’s be honest, looking cute on camera doesn’t always equate to cute results on the skin. And when the Grace & Stella PR asked THE LAB to try some of their products, I couldn’t think of a better person than my brilliant contributor . I wanted her to give this ‘cool girl’ brand an honest, real-skin test. And that she did…

Beyond the pretty packaging: can a ‘cool-girl’ brand actually deliver high-performance skincare results?

Grace & Stella might just be the next viral skincare brand, so when their products landed on my desk, I was obviously going to put them to the test.

I got sent their eye patches (as seen on Emily Blunt in The Devil Wears Prada 2, mind you) and their *adorable* pimple patches. I’m a sucker for anything that looks fun, so they really had me from the get-go.

The Overnight Fix: Testing the Internet’s Favorite Pimple Patches

I feel like I’ve tried every pimple patch out there since the Starface ones became super popular in 2020. While my go-to pimple patches are usually whatever is the best value from Amazon, the Grace & Stella ones piqued my interest because they are SO cute - sue me, I’m easily influenced.

The Ingredient Upgrade: More Than Just Hydrocolloid

Most pimple patches are just standard hydrocolloid patches that draw out the oil and gunk from your blemishes. On top of that, the Grace & Stella ones also contain Salicylic Acid (which reduces swelling) and Tea Tree Oil (an antiseptic to combat acne bacteria and speed up healing).

The added ingredients make these super effective not only at calming the redness of angry blemishes but also at reducing their size and drawing them out of the skin more quickly. Since going on Accutane a few years ago, my skin has definitely improved and I don’t get nearly as many blemishes as I used to but I do get the odd pimple here and there. These patches are so aesthetic that they almost make you want to get a pimple just so you can use them, so I was actually quite delighted to get to test them out.

I’m a pimple patch overnight girl, and by the time I had woken up, the redness and swelling had gone down, and with a little dab of concealer, it was like there was nothing wrong in the first place.

The Prime Day Verdict: The best part is that the patches are included in the Amazon Prime sale from the 23rd-26th June and are nearly 15% off!!

The £0.83 Pamper: Putting the Viral Eye Masks to the Test

As an avid beauty fan, the first thing I noticed about these eye masks is the number of pairs you get in a single box - 24! For a little comparison, Sephora’s best-selling eye masks are the Topicals ones, which come in a pack of 6 pairs for £20 ($22 in the US!), which comes to around £3.30 per use. BUT, the Grace & Stella masks are currently £20 for 24 pairs, which is around £0.83 per use. So it’s pretty clear to see which ones are the most cost-efficient. Okay, maths lesson OVER, let’s get into the eye masks themselves.

Grace & Stella are really spoiling us with 6 different kinds of eye masks to try! Energising, moisturising, restoring, firming, illuminating and revitalising - I received the illuminating ones (which were actually the perfect selection because I am noticing dark circles at the ripe age of 22).

When I first received these, I put a pair straight into the fridge because I just knew that the added coolness would upgrade the experience, and I was right (shock!) It also made me wonder if I should invest in one of those skincare fridges for my bedroom, but that may be taking things too far, even for me.

The Application Test: Do They Actually Stay Put?

Anyway, when I tried them the next morning, one thing that immediately stood out to me was that they weren’t slipping down my face every five seconds (huge win!) and the cooling effect made me feel de-puffed and more awake. While you definitely don’t need a pair of eye masks every day, they feel like a little treat when you want an elevated morning routine, or a pamper night in.

The Beauty Ed® Approved: The Honest Verdict

It’s hard to cut through the noise in the beauty industry, but I think Grace & Stella have done just that. Not only are their products effective and cute, but they also come at a reasonable price point that doesn’t make you dread your restock.

Here is how they stack up:

Grace & Stella Pimple Patches Verdict

Best For: Overnight blemish healing and calming acute inflammation without stripping the skin barrier.

The Experience: Somehow, these pimple patches strike the perfect balance; they stay put firmly on your spots, but they are gentle to take off. I find that some pimple patches that look playful, like this, aren’t always the most focused on skincare, but the Tea Tree Oil and Salicylic Acid in these give you genuine results. I have no complaints (and I’m a Virgo, so that’s pretty rare!)

Grace & Stella Illuminating Eye Masks Verdict

Best For: A cost-effective, cooling luxury treatment to de-puff the under-eyes and prep skin for makeup.

The Experience: I don’t know that I noticed a huge difference visually, but as a pampering treatment, they definitely made my morning routine feel a little more luxurious, and they feel amazing on my under eyes. I’d also definitely repurchase these over other brands I’ve tried; they’re cost-efficient, look good and feel fabulous.

Now, please excuse me while I scroll the rest of their website, adding to my wishlist!
P xx

Today’s announcement that the UK will be banning social media for under-16s is huge, especially for the beauty industry - and it’s a moment I’ve been preparing for.

Reclaiming the Roots of Responsible Teen Media

Long before algorithms dictated what girls saw in their feeds, I learned exactly how to speak to young demographics with absolute responsibility. As an editor on the core team of CosmoGIRL! magazine back in 2001, we built trust through real, fun and approachable imagery and genuine skincare education - long before digital filters existed.

That specific, pre-algorithmic media blueprint is exactly why I launched THE LAB. As a beauty editor with nearly 30 years of industry experience, I designed this mentorship program to be the calm, truthful alternative to fake influencer culture for high school and college students.

How the UK Social Media Ban Impacts Gen Alpha Beauty Marketing

Today’s news that the UK government is planning a full social media ban for under-16s by spring 2027 is a very welcome one.

But let’s be real: this probably won’t completely get teens off the platforms (they’ll just fake their dates of birth). But what it will do is force the beauty industry to completely shift how they market to this demographic. And that is a brilliant sign. It’s going to force brands to be more responsible, more thoughtful, and to finally lead with purpose.

I know from personal experience that Gen Z and Gen Alpha are the absolute golden ticket for these brands. As a Gen X creator, I see it all the time - it can feel like total crickets when you’re trying to get brands involved in any kind of commercial partnerships for midlife. But the second you mention younger demographics? You have them instantly engaged.

If brands want to keep that engagement once that ban is in place, they need to stop looking at these teens as easy sales and start looking at community-driven programs like THE LAB that talk about beauty in a responsible, meaningful way, and they have to start leading with purpose.

Why the Beauty Industry Must Pivot from Sales to Youth Education

Yes, beauty is a business, but profit cannot be the primary intention when approaching teens. The focus must shift to skin health education, truth, and transparent reviews.

Teenagers are incredibly savvy. They know ingredients, they know formulas, and they spot disingenuous marketing a mile away. They don’t want filtered hype; they want real, peer-to-peer recommendations.

Beauty at this age should be fun, creative, and joyful - not a clinical obsession with anti-aging before they’ve even finished school.

Building THE LAB as a Responsible Solution to Algorithmic Beauty

The era of predatory, algorithmic youth marketing is facing a massive shift. If you’re a brand looking to pivot your strategy toward something more purposeful, or a student wanting to learn how to create honest, impactful media, this is the perfect time to work with me and be a part of THE LAB.

What are your thoughts on the ban? Do you think it will actually force beauty brands to clean up their acts, or will they just find a new backdoor? Let’s talk in the comments below.

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The Beauty Ed®s Note: As part of THE LAB, my student mentorship program where I oversee the work of the next generation of beauty writers, I’m so happy to share this helpful piece (especially if you suffer badly with frizz) by Contributing Editor, . I introduced Gia to the PR agency who handle the press for Moroccanoil in the UK as she is the perfect candidate to road test their frizz fighting formulas. And here, she gives an honest review as she trials a complete curl care routine during her travels in hot and humid Italy 🇮🇹

This is a PR/Gifted Review with no obligation to post

After years of bleach, heat styling and trying to force my hair into being something it simply isn’t, this summer in Italy has become an unexpected turning point.

For most of my teenage years, my relationship with my hair was built around control. Blow-dries, straighteners, and endless attempts to tame the frizz. If there was humidity in the forecast, I immediately assumed it would be a bad hair day.

Perhaps it’s the wider beauty conversation moving away from perfection. Perhaps it’s getting older. Or perhaps it’s spending summer in Italy, where the heat, humidity and reality of everyday life quickly make you realise that fighting your natural texture is exhausting.

So this summer, I’ve decided to embrace my natural hair properly…

Coincidentally, I was kindly sent the Moroccanoil Curl Collection to test just before leaving for Italy. Having used Moroccanoil products since my early teens, I wasn’t completely new to the brand. In fact, the original shampoo, conditioner and iconic treatment oil have been staples in my hair routine for years.

What was new, however, was committing to an entirely curl-focused routine and seeing how it performed against the ultimate challenge: an Italian summer.

The Best Routine For Thick, Frizz-Prone Wavy Hair

For context, my hair is naturally thick, dry, wavy-curly and extremely prone to frizz.

When I say frizz-prone, I mean it. If a drop of rain touches it, it expands. If there’s humidity, it expands. If someone merely mentions moisture in the atmosphere, it somehow expands.

Years of bleach certainly didn’t help matters, and whilst my hair is far healthier today, hydration is still something I have to prioritise constantly.

Because of that, I tend to judge products quite harshly. If something weighs my hair down, leaves it sticky or makes my roots oily, I notice immediately.

How To Properly Prepare Textured Hair For Styling: The Clarifying Step

Before using any of the Moroccanoil products, I started with my favourite OUAI detox shampoo.

This is something I’ve become increasingly strict about because so many people underestimate how much product buildup accumulates on the scalp.

If you’re using mousses, curl creams, oils, dry shampoo or hairspray throughout the week, your regular shampoo is not enough.

A clarifying wash essentially gives you a clean slate.

Only after doing this did I move on to the Moroccanoil Curl Enhancing Shampoo, followed by the Curl Enhancing Conditioner. One thing I immediately noticed was that the shampoo doesn’t foam nearly as much as the Moisture Repair Moroccanoil shampoo. The scent is also softer and less distinctive.

The conditioner, however, was lovely.

Because my hair is naturally dry, I applied a generous amount throughout my lengths and ends. A professional stylist once told me that most people with textured hair simply don’t use enough conditioner, and ever since then, I’ve become much more generous with it.

🐄 I also used the “milking method” that Gustav Fouche previously taught me during an appointment at his Notting Hill salon. It sounds unusual, but it involves taking small, manageable sections of hair and gently running the conditioner down each strand from root to tip with your fingertips, almost as if you were slowly pressing moisture into the hair.

It helps distribute moisture evenly and has genuinely transformed how hydrated my curls feel.

Moroccanoil Curl Defining Dream Review: Is It Worth The Hype?

The standout product in this entire routine was, without question, the Moroccanoil Curl Defining Cream.

In fact, this product had been sitting on my wish-list long before I received it.

My best friend Maria has been telling me to buy it for months and absolutely swears by it, and now I understand why.

I applied around three pumps through damp hair when it was approximately 90% wet.

The first thing I noticed was how lightweight it felt.

So many curl products promise definition, but leave the hair feeling coated or sticky. This did neither. It almost disappears into my hair.

The second thing I noticed was how smooth my curls looked. Not stiff, nor crunchy, but soft and defined.

The scent is also beautiful without being overpowering, and it gives the hair that luxurious salon-product feeling that makes styling feel less like a chore and more like self-care.

❤️ If I could only recommend one product from the entire collection, it would be this one.

How To Protect Curls and Waves From Summer Humidity

After the cream, I followed with the Curl Control Mousse. Again, I was pleasantly surprised.

I’ve used mousse since I was around thirteen years old, desperately trying to understand my hair texture before I really knew what I was doing.

Many mousses leave a sticky residue or make curls feel hard; however, this one didn’t.

I scrunched it throughout my hair, concentrating particularly around the roots where frizz tends to appear first.

I then added a small amount of gel to the ends of my waves. (This is something I always do during the summer).

No matter what curl products I’m testing, a small amount of gel helps lock everything in place and prevents humidity from undoing all my hard work within the first hour.

The Ultimate Hair Oil For Shine and Smooth Ends

Once my hair had dried slightly, I finished with the Moroccanoil Treatment Oil.

This is the product I’ve used the longest from the brand.

I’ve been buying it since I was thirteen years old, and it remains one of the most reliable hair oils I’ve ever tried. It adds shine, smooths the ends, and somehow manages to make hair feel healthier instantly.

I used a few pumps throughout the length and then headed out into the Bologna heat.

The Honest Verdict: Which Moroccanoil Curl Products Are Actually Worth It?

• The Curl Defining Cream is exceptional.

• The mousse is excellent and will be a product that I repurchase.

• The conditioner is lovely.

• The shampoo, however, was my least favourite product.

Whilst it may work beautifully for someone with a different hair type, I found it made my hair feel slightly heavier, and my roots became oilier more quickly than they usually do.

Interestingly, this is something a few friends of mine have also experienced with Moroccanoil shampoos generally…

That doesn’t mean it’s a bad product. It simply means it wasn’t the best fit for my particular hair.

And I think that’s important to say. Good beauty journalism isn’t about telling people everything is amazing. It’s about explaining what worked, what didn’t and helping readers decide what might work for them!

Final Thoughts

This summer has been less about achieving perfect hair and more about learning to appreciate the hair I already have.

The curls, the volume and even the frizz! Because the truth is, hair doesn’t need to be perfectly sleek to look beautiful. Sometimes it just needs to look like yours.

And somewhere between the heat of Bologna, countless scoops of gelato, and finally letting my natural texture take up space, I’m beginning to think my hair agrees.

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.

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.

(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…

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.

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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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.

My whole TikTok #foryou page is people saying brown mascara is better than black mascara and vice versa. But what makes them different? Apart from their color of course?

The High School Bathroom: Why Fitting In Starts with Mascara

As a fifteen-year-old girl, fitting in is a need. If a group of people start a trend, everyone has a feeling that they need to do the same thing, so they aren’t the odd one out. And you almost never see any girl in high school who doesn’t wear mascara.

I see girls fixing their makeup and re-curling their lashes in the bathroom, while they talk about their terrible schedule for the day and what homework they haven’t finished. Meanwhile, I’m standing there staring at myself. Bare.

I remember that exact feeling whenI started doing my mascara when I was thirteen.

The first coat made me feel like I was putting on a security blanket. It made me feel confident and part of the gang, and I’ve never gone back.

When I started wearing mascara, I used a cheap, Walgreens one that destroyed my lashes. I wanted to fit in so bad. My eyes became red and very itchy, so in the end, all it did was hurt me.

Now, I never leave the house without doing my lashes; feeling confident in my own skin makes a huge difference in my mood.

After that poor experience, I asked my friends for their recommendations - I clearly needed something reliable and safe as my eyes are so sensitive and now I never leave the house without doing my lashes.

Brown vs. Black Mascara: What’s The Real Difference for Your Eyes?

Personally, I think they both suit me well. While the brown brings a softer look to my eyes, the black makes my eyes look very bold.

I usually wear brown mascara during the winter. This is because most of my cooler toned outfits are worn during the winter, and it brings a sense of warmth.

Finding the Right Formula: My Top Pick for Sensitive Eyes

My all-time favorite is Clinique High Impact Mascara. I was gifted this by my mom for Christmas, and I’m so grateful that I was given it. I feel like it is a lesser-known brand in my age group, but it works very well for me because it is formulated for sensitive eyes. It makes my lashes look long and full, while separating them and, even though my eyes are strikingly brown, they still need to be defined.

Why Maybelline Sky High is My Black Mascara Holy Grail

When it comes to black mascara, the Maybelline Sky High Mascara is my favorite. When I started really getting into mascara, I asked my friends for recommendations, and this was everyone’s top pick. I’m all about affordable makeup, and this mascara is never more than $11 at Target. Even though it’s cheap, it works well for my sensitive eyes, while still doing the job a good mascara needs to do.

How I Choose Between the Two

Some of my friends ONLY wear black mascara because they just want it to make their lashes look longer. Those who choose brown mascara prefer a more natural look.

Unsure of which one you prefer? I decide on the ‘vibe’ I am going for! Is it full on dramatic or less is more? This helps me determine which color to choose.

How Mascara Reflects My Daily Mood

I’ve come to understand that choosing between black and brown mascara isn’t just a beauty decision - it’s a mood decision. It’s less about how the pigment looks on my lashes and more about the way I feel about myself when I look in the mirror. Whether I want a bold or softer look, my mascara is a way to express exactly who I am ♡

Faylynn Messer is a freshman, competitive swimmer and THE LAB mentee focusing on skin-positive storytelling. As well as Maybelline Sky High Mascara, you’ll also find Byoma, Summer Friday’s, e.l.f and Laniege in her beauty stash.

Thanks for reading THE LAB by The Beauty Ed®. If you’d like to show your support, please consider subscribing 💌 And please share our work: it keeps thoughtful and truthful beauty journalism alive ♡

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The Beauty Ed®’s Note: At The Beauty Ed®, we’ve spent over two decades filtering the noise of the beauty and fashion industries to find the looks that are actually ‘real’ and ‘authentic’ rather than ‘brand-sponsored’ and ‘fake’. And as Coachella has recently turned into a type of ‘Influencers Olympics’, ie. a hyper-curated content machine where identity is often traded for engagement, we’re looking past the sponsored looks to find ones that truly inspire us and are an extension of the person that is wearing them. Here, The Beauty Ed® contributor shares the one look that brought some true fashion soul back to the desert…

Why Zoi Lerma Always Feels Like the Real Coachella

As an avid Coachella watcher since the age of 12, I have always been completely infatuated with the celebrities attending this Californian music festival.

There was something about the effortless ease of it all that fascinated me; the sun-soaked glamour, the fashion, the sense that everyone looked incredible without appearing to try too hard.

I still mourn the Coachella that existed before it became the dreaded influencer Olympics.

The other night, I was aimlessly scrolling on TikTok when I stumbled across a clip set to an overwhelmingly nostalgic sound, layered over a compilation of images from the old Coachella, the version that existed before the hyper-curated brand trips, forced photo dumps, and identical influencer outfits took over.

@lisyyy765The golden era of coachella #foryoupage❤️❤️ #blowthisup #foryou #explorepage✨ #foruyou_page

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It reminded me exactly why I used to yearn for this festival when I was younger. Back then, it felt less like a content machine and more like a mood: people dressing for the sheer joy of it, chasing a feeling rather than a perfectly branded image.

That’s why, despite being firmly within the influencer sphere, Zoi Lerma still feels different to me. She is one of only a handful of creators who genuinely emulates that same old Coachella energy I used to look up to, rooted in fun, spontaneity, and pure vibe.

I first started watching Zoi when I was in my tweens, and she felt like such a breath of fresh air in an already saturated industry.

The One Coachella 2026 Look I Can’t Stop Thinking About

Zoi never disappoints with her Coachella outfits, and this year’s day-one look might be my favourite yet.

Wearing a custom GUVANCH set, she paired a coral-orange bralette with an extraordinary micro-feathered skirt in layered tones of fuchsia, teal, and burnt orange.

The movement alone was mesmerising.

Styled with a teal-studded belt, worn brown vintage boots, and a dramatic long pendant necklace that fell almost to the waist, the look captured exactly what festival dressing should be: playful, nostalgic, and unique.

Face Gems, Y2K Energy, and the Return of Festival Maximalism

The accessories made it even better. Silver bangles stacked up the arm, nostalgic face gems caught the light, and there was just enough Y2K energy to make it feel current.

I had an immediate flashback to buying crystal face stickers from Claire’s as a tween, and I’m honestly so excited to see that energy return to Coachella.

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The Nails That Completed the Look

Created by celebrity nail artist 𝐀𝐧𝐚𝐥𝐲𝐬𝐬𝐞 𝐇𝐞𝐫𝐧𝐚𝐧𝐝𝐞𝐳, the set brought together teal, coral, and fuchsia tones with gem embellishment in a way that perfectly mirrored the outfit’s maximalism. It felt very Zara Larsson-coded in the best way: bold, glamorous, and glitzy.

Why This One Look Feels Like the Return of the Coachella I Loved

What I love most about this look is that it brought me back to the version of Coachella I first became obsessed with.

Before the festival became overrun with predictable influencer attire, it was about experimentation, excess, nostalgia, and genuine fashion moments.

This one look gave me that feeling again. And that’s exactly why I can’t stop thinking about it!

-Gia 🌈

What is Cosmeticorexia?

As a Beauty Editor, mum and also someone who has mentored teenagers throughout my 27-year career, there is no doubt that I am alarmed with the the skincare industry’s current obsession with under-18 consumers. But sadly, I'm not surprised. And now, it even has a name…

‘Cosmeticorexia’ has been making headlines. It has become the industry’s newest buzzword to describe the obsession that teenagers and children have about their skincare routines. An obsession that often sees them using inappropriate products that are not meant for their young, fresh and healthy complexions.

What is the truth about Cosmeticorexia? After 27 years in the industry, I've found it's not simply an "obsession," but a search for agency. While the media focuses on the $698B industry’s influence, The Beauty Ed® THE LAB, my proprietary mentoring group for Gen A and Gen Z students, has identified that for many teens, their skincare ‘obsession’ is actually a search for control and wellbeing rather than anti-ageing.

So while the “cosmeticorexia” headlines are busy panicking, they are missing the most important part of the story: the teenagers’ own perspective. And if we understand what is really going on from their point of view, I think that the industry - and the media - will realise that they need to give these cosmeticorexia "victims" a lot more credit.

Realities from THE LAB: They Seek Control Not Correction

While headlines paint a picture of children blindly following influencers into a “retinol trap,” the voices from THE LAB tell a different story. One of intentionality. For 14 year old Lexie, a multi-step routine is a foundational anchor to help her start her day.

They Seek Control & Self-Care In Their Skincare Routine

“My friends and I talk about waking up forty-five minutes early to do a multi-step skincare routine to limit acne and protect our skin barrier. Skincare is important to me because I feel that my skin is something that I can control.”

Lexie’s point of view is echoed by Donyae, 17, who uses her routine as a mental health tool: “It was one of the first ways I learned to care for myself. My routine gives me time to reflect, check in with myself, and appreciate my growth, personally and in my skin journey.”

THE LAB students prove that the “Sephora Kid” stereotype often misses the mark too:

The industry often assumes these kids are impulsive, but Kira proves the stereotype misses the mark on trust: “I often buy brands that work for my mom or sisters... I tend to not trust social media for recommendations since I find them distrusting most of the time.”

Similarly, Donyae completely upends the “Sephora Kid” stereotype of impulsive buying: “For skincare, I trust myself the most. I research ingredients, pay attention to my skin’s history, and introduce products slowly. I would much rather listen to my skin than hop on the bandwagon.”

Even Mauricio, the only male in THE LAB, views it through a lens of simple hygiene rather than cosmetic vanity: “I view skincare as very important to hygiene... I still like to keep it simple.”

A Call for “Whimsy” in a $698 Billion World

Perhaps Gen A’s most damning evidence against the industry’s “Cosmeticorexia” marketing spin comes from high school Junior Ana, who highlights exactly what the industry has stripped away: Fun.

“I hope to see more emphasis on bringing the fun and whimsy back to beauty,” Ana says. “I really want to make the whole idea of beauty less serious and more focused on what you want to do with yourself.”

Despite having skin struggles that required a clinical approach - using a mix of organic skincare like Eminence, a simple Dove bar, and Tretinoin - Ana’s perspective remains grounded in self-care rather than self-correction. To her, beauty is simply “spending time with yourself... in order to prepare yourself for the day.”

The Industry Pivot: Are Brands Finally Listening To Gen A?

Thankfully, some corners of the industry are beginning to pivot away from ‘collagen banking’ and toward the age-appropriate care that THE LAB mentees are calling for. We are seeing a new wave of brands that focus on ‘barrier-first’ beauty rather than ‘active-heavy’ correction.

Take Marks & Spencer, for example. They’ve just launched Fresh Elements, a range specifically designed for the 12+ demographic. With prices starting at £9.50, it offers the ‘shelfie-worthy’ aesthetic teens want, but with dermatologically approved, gentle formulas that focus on hydration rather than harsh acids. It’s a direct answer to parents who want to give their kids the ritual without the risk.

We are also seeing the rise of ‘founder-led’ transparency with indu, now a fast-growing teen favorite at Sephora. What makes indu different is that it was built alongside a teen committee - much like my own work with THE LAB - to ensure the products actually support the skin’s microbiome rather than overwhelming it.

And then there is the highly anticipated HIKU by Harper (Beckham). While any Beckham-backed launch will inevitably cause a stir, the focus here is reportedly on K-Beauty influences - a category known for its ‘skin-first’ philosophy, lightweight textures, and playful presentation. If Harper leans into not just the education, but also the ‘whimsy’ that Ana from THE LAB craves, it could set a new, healthier standard for celebrity-led teen beauty.

The Skincare Industry’s Missing Link For Gen A

As Gen Xers, our Saturday afternoons spent in The Body Shop were defined by a curiosity that ended at the tester pots. But we didn't buy the Eldeflower Eye Gels because we knew we didn't need them. Today, that "need" is being manufactured by an industry projected to hit $698.38 BILLION by 2026.

But as my mentees at THE LAB prove, you cannot manufacture authenticity and this generation is doing the work that many brands are failing to do: they are listening to their skin.

The beauty industry needs to stop treating Gen Alpha as “fodder” for the next trending headline and start treating them as the researchers they are. And if they want to solve the “Cosmeticorexia” crisis, the solution isn’t giving them more products - it’s giving them more credit.

A Beauty Editor and Gen A Mentor’s Perspective

In the world of beauty journalism, we often fall into the trap of looking at a trend from just one angle, and right now, ‘Cosmeticorexia’ is being viewed through three very loud lenses: the “panicked parents”, the “click-hungry” media and the “revenue hungry'“ brands.

Yes, we’ve heard the horror stories of ten-year-olds demanding Retinol, and we’ve seen the industry reports on the $698 billion gold mine, but if my 27 years in this industry have taught me anything, it’s that you can’t understand the headlines if you ignore the main protagonists.

That is why I started THE LAB. My mentees aren’t just a ‘demographic’ or a ‘slice of the pie’ - they are the ones living the story. And the reality I see is they are a generation searching for a bit of fun, a bit of control, and a lot of ‘whimsy’ in a world that has become far too serious for their young minds.

So in my opinion, if we want to solve the ‘Cosmeticorexia’ crisis, we have to stop talking about these kids as if they are helpless victims and start giving them the credit they deserve. They are the researchers, the ones with the curious minds, and the ones who will ultimately decide if the industry’s obsession with them is on the right course.

So when The Beauty Ed® was offered to test Gustav Fouche’s New Frizz Spritz Treatment, which some marketeers call ‘hair botox’, I was skeptical to see if it delivered. It promises to…

…soften frizz, restore moisture, and make the hair more manageable through heat and humidity.

Being someone with natural waves that are susceptible to frizz - especially because I now live in hot and humid Florida - I wanted to know which category this collagen-infused treatment fell into. Would it live up to the hype and the price tag? Or was it just a waste-of-time? And money?

As the salon is in London, I sent The Beauty Ed® Gen Z THE LAB mentee and fellow frizz-sufferer to try it out. Here’s her honest review:

What Exactly is a ‘Hair Botox’ Treatment?

After the fabulous response to my last visit to Gustav Fouche’s Salon, where I experienced my first 3D dry cut, I returned this week to test the salon’s newest launch: Frizz Spritz, an in-salon de-frizzing treatment.

Positioned as a softer, curl-conscious alternative to keratin, the treatment immediately intrigued me because I have spent years being told to try straightening treatments, yet I have avoided them, fearing that they would compromise my natural texture.

What appealed here was the opposite promise: it is designed not to straighten hair, but to soften frizz, restore moisture, and make it more manageable through heat and humidity.

Frizz Spritz vs. Keratin: Why I Chose a Texture-Safe Alternative

With my annual Italy trip nearing and my hair notoriously reactive to even the faintest suggestion of moisture in the air, the timing was perfect!

Rather than behaving like a straightening service, Frizz Spritz works more as a collagen-infused reparative gloss, borrowing from the technology behind advanced hair botox treatments. The formula is designed to hydrate hair by replenishing lost amino acids, proteins, and moisture, which then help to improve its softness and control without removing the hair’s natural movement.

This is not a keratin treatment! And it’s important to note this is not a miracle cure for 100% of frizz either. Instead, it refines your overall hair texture so curls and waves sit more polished and look more shiny. It’s meant to really help lessen frizz in humid conditions too!

Results are said to last up to three months, which makes it especially appealing as a pre-holiday salon treatment before spring and summer travel.

Starting from £260, it firmly sits in luxury territory, but for hair that struggles with dryness and weather-induced frizz, it offers something far gentler than harsher smoothing alternatives.

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Why I Wanted to Try It on My Own Hair

(the before)

My hair is naturally dry, dense, and deeply prone to frizz.

Years of heat styling, bleaching, and colour experimentation have left my curls permanently thirsty, and in humid weather, the situation escalates quickly. The slightest mist, breeze, or shift in temperature can turn it from defined to expansive within minutes.

I love masks and at-home treatments, but I had never tried an in-salon service specifically targeting frizz and hydration.

The Pro Tip: Why Your At-Home Products Might Be Blocking Your Results

The first step is a double detox cleanse, using a clarifying shampoo to strip away oil, residue, styling product, and anything that could block the treatment from penetrating properly.

This was one of the most useful takeaways from the appointment: even if you shampoo regularly, product build-up can still sit stubbornly on the scalp and lengths, especially if, like me, you rotate through oils, creams, leave-ins, and masks.

Once cleansed, the hair is rough-dried. At this point, I could already see my usual halo of frizz beginning to rise, which made the before-and-after contrast feel even more notable.

The Application: Why the Formula is “Violet-Blue”

The treatment itself has a striking violet-blue tone which I was quite shocked about! But after some research, I have learnt that the blue toning pigments help to ramp up the shine on dry, porous and frizzy hair like mine.

It is applied in meticulous small sections from root to end and then left to process for around 30 minutes before being rinsed out with water only. No shampoo nor conditioner follows.

The final stage is where the transformation really begins: a full blow-dry followed by straightening at high heat to seal the treatment into the hair and lock in the smoothing effect.

The Honest Verdict: Why You Might Want To Skip Mascara

One thing worth noting transparently: this is a strong professional treatment.

While nowhere near the intensity of keratin, I did find the formula made my eyes water during processing, and my mascara did not survive the experience entirely intact. That said, I’m unusually sensitive to strong scents and certain formulas, and the team were incredibly thoughtful, offering me a face covering and making sure I was comfortable throughout.

The sensation passed relatively quickly, and once the blow-dry began, all I could focus on was the shine at the root; it was almost lacquered.

The Humidity Test: Does it Work for Naturally Frizz-Prone Hair?

The full appointment lasted closer to three hours on my hair, rather than the suggested 90 minutes, but that extra time spoke more to the salon’s thoroughness and my hair’s length than anything else.

The immediate result was smoother, glossier, and noticeably more controlled hair, without that unnaturally flattened finish I had feared. Importantly, it still looked like my hair, just the most polished version of it yet.

The real test, of course, will come after my first natural wash and during humid weather, which is when my hair usually reveals the truth.

I’ve been advised to leave it untouched for three days before washing, so I’ll be updating on how the curls settle and whether the frizz remains controlled once the treatment has fully lived in.

For now, as a Notting Hill luxury salon treatment for dry, frizz-prone curls ahead of summer, it feels genuinely promising!

As an unapologetic Dior Beauty devotee, I wait for the house’s beauty drops with great anticipation, and the Dioriviera Summer 2026 collection may be one of its most visually compelling yet.

Putting these products to the test for The Beauty Ed®, I wanted to see if the latest creative vision from Peter Philips, Dior Makeup’s Creative and Image Director, lives up to the hype - especially for our growing community in the UK and the US who value a ‘skincare first’ ‘filtered’ finish.

Designed to channel the azure skies of Provence, this limited-edition collection features the standout 162 Summer Azur Palette - think luminous azure shadows, flushed bronze skin, and packaging adorned with raised daisies and the ladybug motif, a subtle nod to the maison’s longstanding relationship with luck and superstition (and also, coincidentally, a key feature of The Beauty Ed®’s branding)! 🐞

Naturally, I recreated an entire look using the collection, alongside some of Dior’s latest skincare and complexion staples, like Dior Solar SPF, to see how it performs beyond the campaign imagery. And yes, it is every bit as beautiful on the face as it is on the vanity.

(behind-the-scenes: Hermes, my cat opening my Dior parcel)

Skin Prep: The “Expensive Skin” Foundation

A good makeup look begins long before pigment touches the eye. For dry skin, especially, the difference lies in hydration, skin preparation, and a sunscreen that won’t flake under makeup, which is surprisingly rare.

I began with Dior Capture Totale Intensive Essence Lotion, which instantly gives the skin that expensive, lit-from-within sheen. The texture feels spa-like and cocooning, and I tend to reserve it for makeup days when I want the base to look especially luminous.

I followed with the monoi-infused Dior Solar SPF, which remains one of the most elegant sunscreens I own: weightless, glowy, and never chalky, even under concealer. Living in London has only made me more committed to daily SPF; grey skies are no excuse!

For lips, I prepped with Le Baume, Dior’s multi-use balm, which keeps everything soft before gloss or lipstick and doubles as my bedside staple.

Complexion: The Foundation-Free Riviera Bronze

For my base, I skipped foundation entirely and used concealer - Dior Forever Skin Correct (005 Neutral) - blending it over my face.

I’ve increasingly moved away from heavy base products, and this formula works beautifully for that: it provides enough coverage for blemishes and under-eyes, yet remains breathable enough to let the skin feel like itself.

The real star of the complexion, however, is the new Dior Forever Nude Bronze Glow (032 Pink Bronze).

The embossed daisy compact alone feels collectable, but the powder itself gives a believable Riviera warmth rather than a flat bronze.

*On fair skin, it works best applied subtly. I pressed it onto the cheeks first with fingertips, then diffused it with a damp sponge for a soft, sun-touched flush.

The Eyes: Recreating the “Riviera Blue”

The collection’s 162 Summer Azur palette captures that exact late-afternoon Mediterranean blue, somewhere between sky and sea.

I layered the pale blue shimmer across the lid first, before building the sky-blue pigment through the centre using my ring finger for maximum payoff. To create dimension, I deepened the crease with navy tones from older Dior favourites in my collection, creating a soft gradient.

The two additional palettes used:

1. DIOR PALETTE: 233 EDEN ROC

2. DIOR SHOW: PLAN DE PARIS L’ETOILE (Discontinued)

   

   To sharpen the shape, I turned the deepest blue shade into liner using an angled brush, which gave a softer alternative to black while still framing the eye.

   For inner-corner light and highlight, I reached for the Dior Backstage Glow Maximizer Palette 006, mixing the icy tones for that almost wet-look gleam Dior does so well.

   ---

   The Removal Test: The Product That Truly Surprised Me

   

   A good review doesn’t end with the final photo.

   After shooting the look well into the evening, I put L’Huile OFF/ON cleansing oil to the real test, and this may actually be the most impressive product in the entire routine.

   A few pumps melted through layers of concealer, SPF, blue shadow, liner, mascara, and lash glue with remarkable ease. What stood out most was not just the speed, but the after-feel. This is where Dior’s newer, more accessible skincare direction really proves its value. (If you want to understand the strategy behind this shift, read my full deep-dive on the Dior Cleansing Line here).

   Usually, after removing a full-glam look, my skin feels stripped and tight. This left it soft, comfortable, and genuinely nourished.

   🪭 For anyone who wears long-wear makeup regularly, this is where Dior’s newer, more accessible skincare direction really proves its value.

   ---

Read my full article on this range here:

Final Thoughts: Is the Dioriviera 2026 Collection Worth It?

For summer 2026, Dior has delivered exactly what luxury beauty should: colour, exceptional textures, and products that feel as considered in real life as they do in campaign stills.

The standout products for me were:

· L’Huile OFF/ON cleansing oil

· Dioriviera Summer Azur palette

· Forever Nude Bronze Glow

The eyeshadow palette, in particular, captures that rare balance of glam and wearability, a true Riviera blue that still makes sense in London.

And that, perhaps, is Dior beauty at its best.

In my 27 years as a beauty editor, stretching back to my days as Beauty Editor at teen magazine CosmoGirl! to the front lines of the ‘real beauty’ evolution during my stint at Boots UK, where I introduced a strict no-retouching policy - I’ve seen the industry move from hiding “imperfections'“ to slowly celebrating them. Fast forward to today, April 6 2026 and the Rhode x The Biebers drop feels especially full circle.

Introducing a new type of beauty accessory, “Spotwear,” Hailey and Justin Bieber have unveiled five limited-edition hydrocolloid patches (think mushrooms and daisies) designed to be seen, not hidden…

Hailey has reportedly been “precious” about this specific formulation since 2024, ensuring the hydrocolloid material is thin enough to move with the skin but effective enough to heal. It’s a sophisticated marketing pivot; she has moved strategically and smoothly on from last winter’s ‘Ski-Core’ aesthetic, to a $16 sticker that turns a skin struggle into a fashion choice.

Arriving just in time for Justin’s Coachella headline set, this isn’t just a product launch; it’s a masterclass in “wearable skincare.” And as a veteran editor, I’m looking past the viral $16 stickers to ask: has the “Bieber effect” finally made the common breakout a status symbol?

The 2005 Archive: When Spots Were “Bad Habits”

I’ve just dug out a copy of CosmoGIRL! from 2005 from my archives. Lindsay Lohan is on the cover, and inside is a feature I wrote titled “Bust Your Beauty Bad Habits.” My advice for a breakout back then? “Think about the damage you’re doing if you squeeze... then dab it with Superdrug tea tree oil.”

Looking at that advice now seems so outdated! We were effectively teaching a generation that a blemish was a “bad habit” to be “fixed” and hidden.

As high school Junior Donyae from THE LAB says: “I wear pimple patches not only because [they] help me feel more secure going out, but [they] also helps me stop picking at my skin which often leaves scars.”

2015: “No-Retouching” at Boots

By 2015, during my time with the British drugstore Boots editing the beauty and cover pages of their Health & Beauty Magazine, (an in-store glossy that was, back then, the most read women’s magazine in the UK), my approach around topics like breakouts and ‘flaws’ began to shift. I was radically committed to reality; and as the Beauty Director, I made sure that if a model arrived at a beauty or cover shoot with a spot, it would not be digitally erased or retouched out. Instead, we would do with it what we had to use in reality: cover it with concealer.

But oh how I wish Rhode “spotwear” was available back then! I’d have SO been down to quickly replace the concealer brush with a $16 mushroom shaped sticker! I am so here for this evolution of skin positivity!

Unlearning the Shame: Insights from THE LAB

The generational friction is where the “spotwear'“ story gets really interesting. While our generation was trained to hide, THE LAB collective is writing its own rules. Gia from THE LAB calls the Rhode x The Biebers launch “sharp marketing,” noting that for Gen Z and Gen Alpha, these patches have become a staple that genuinely boosts confidence. However, she still feels the generational gap at home: “It’s funny though, as older relatives, especially my dad, always tell me they’re not appropriate when I wear them out in public like at the airport.”

This sentiment is echoed by The Beauty Ed®’s Marketing Manager, Hayley Beard, who admits she was “trained from age 12” to never show a pimple. “I’m learning to embrace imperfections, but it’s a process. It goes back to how I was never allowed to leave the house in pajamas or without looking ‘presentable.’”

Yet, for the students in THE LAB, the goal isn’t male validation or “perfection” - it’s self-expression. As Avery Lurie put it: “I am not wearing makeup for male validation.”

The “Boy Behavior” Barrier & The Bieber Effect

Then, there is Justin’s influence to consider. He personally designed the five shapes, but can his “Coachella factor” truly shift typical “Boy Behavior” as Paloma from THE LAB calls it? She is skeptical: “I doubt my guy friends would wear pimple patches in public. They’re much bigger fans of the clear ones and they normally just wear them overnight or at home.”

High school Junior Donyae from THE LAB has her doubts with boys wearing them too: "I’m not sure many boys would actually wear spot patches. From what I’ve heard, some think they’re too feminine.

We will see the boys wearing a neon mushroom to a festival…and taking a picture for evidence!? 🍄📸

The “Spotwear” Wardrobe: What’s in the Drop?

Justin personally designed these five limited-edition shapes to move the blemish patch from a clinical “fix” to a festival-ready accessory. Here is the breakdown of the Rhode x The Biebers shapes:

• Mushroom

• Daisy

• Jelly Bean

• Bubble

• Curve

The Full Set costs $56 and includes the complete wardrobe of 30 patches plus the new Caramelized Banana Peptide Lip Treatment - a flavor Paloma from THE LAB is “side-eyeing,” but one I suspect will become an instant cult classic. And if this drop is anything like the Sarah Pidgeon campaign we wrote about earlier this Spring, we can expect the formula to be as high-performance as the marketing is shrewd.

The Individual Spotwear Pouch costs $16 - an accessible price point for a “designer” drop, but the students in THE LAB are already weighing it up against their current favorites. As high school Junior Diana perfectly summarized:

“I think spot patches are a great way for us to feel more comfortable with breakouts and to normalize it. I think $16 is reasonable, but I’m curious as to how it holds up against the brands I trust.”

It’s a reminder that even with the “Bieber effect,” performance is still the ultimate currency for Gen A.

The collection will be available to buy online at Rhode.com from April 13th at 9am PT.

The Beauty Ed® & THE LAB’s Final Verdict:

What we love most about the Rhode x The Biebers drop is that it proves that beauty is no longer about hiding; it’s about celebrating YOU! And after 27 years of trying to shout this message LOUD in an industry that was always obsessed with perfection, I am here for it! And so are THE LAB!

The Sephora Struggle: Hype Vs. Health

We are surrounded by trending products that we feel we should buy, but in reality, the popular products are sometimes not what works. Trends can lead to over consumption and are not built for everyone’s skin types.

The culture of modern beauty can lead to insecurities and feeling that you have to buy something just because your friends are talking about it. Walking into Sephora, I am overwhelmed by products advertised by influencers on social media, such as Drunk Elephant, Sol de Janeiro, and Summer Fridays.

The FOMO EFFECT: When Trends Break Your Skin Barrier

The popularity of trending products can drive us to make impulsive decisions. We buy products because of the hype around the trend, not because of the effectiveness of the beauty product.

For example, my friends were talking about The Ordinary, a brand that makes serums, oils, and other skincare products, so when we went to the mall, I felt like I should buy the Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5 (with Ceramides), because my friends said it would benefit my skin. But after about a week of using it, I started to break out and I had to use alternative products to fix the damage - like the Laneige Cream Skin Mist Duo.

So I’ve learned that many highly advertised products can disrupt my skin barrier, cause irritation and lasting damage. Finding products that match your skin type involves a trial and error process. But it’s worth doing to find what works for you!

The Lip Balm Battle: Summer Fridays Vs. e.l.f

Popular products like Summer Fridays Lip Butter Balm are circled by the glow of social media, but some people don’t want to spend $24 on a lip balm.

So step forward e.l.f. Cosmetics Glow Reviver Melting Lip Balm. This budget-friendly makeup and skincare brand is cruelty free, vegan and affordable!

The Glow Reviver Lip Balm is a buttery tint with a glossy finish and isn’t shy in admitting it’s a dupe for Summer Fridays either. Under the details tab of the product, it states:

“$24 for a lip balm? do butter. Glow Reviver Melting Lip Balm is only $9!”

🫶🏼

Smart Swaps: Why We Love Dupes

There is no shame in buying products advertised on the internet. I have bought multiple lip balms from Summer Fridays, but it’s important to be aware that finding products to represent your true self is more important than letting the noise of your friends or social media affect your own ideas.

Rhode vs. MCoBeauty

MCoBeauty is another brand known for creating dupes. The MCoBeauty Hydrate & Prepare Milky Toner is considered a replica of Rhode’s Glazing Milk. McoBeauty’s toner is $13.99 for 4.73 ounces and Rhode’s glazing milk is $32 for 4.2 ounces. Falling for trendy products makes me feel like I’ve been duped by brands that promise to help my skin.

The glow around Rhode could be because the founder is Hailey Bieber, who is known to have perfect skin. And this can make us feel like we should have perfect skin too - but there is no such thing as perfect skin! It’s an impossible standard used to try to make us feel better about ourselves.

Great Skin Is About Owning Who You Are

Following trends can leave you feeling like you’re not good enough or you don’t fit in. This is why it’s important to keep in mind that fashion, makeup, and skincare is not a one size fit’s all.

Your image does not need to mirror the influencers promoting the product or models that seem to be perfect. Everyone deserves to look in the mirror and feel confident and proud of who they are.

The appeal of “hype” products can compromise your skin, waste money, and have a negative mental impact. Please don’t be stressed about what you put on your face when you wake up in the morning. Just find products that are right for you and ones that you can trust.

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.

Thanks for reading THE LAB by The Beauty Ed®. If you’d like to show your support, please consider subscribing 💌 And please share our work: it keeps thoughtful and truthful beauty journalism alive ♡

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The Beauty Ed®’s Note: In my 27 years as a Beauty Editor, I have seen the beauty industry slowly move away from trends that are obsessed with perfectionism towards ones that prize relatability and honesty. And the M.A.C x Xime Ponch partnership was a perfect example of this ‘unfiltered’ shift. The Beauty Ed® contributor Gia Yianni recently spoke to the Miami influencer about her work as a 2022 M.A.C Maker, her love for dupes, and the raw, bilingual reality of being a Spanish speaking creator.

Perhaps it is the heat, or the colour, or the way everything feels just slightly heightened, but spend enough time watching the city of Miami through someone else’s lens, and the gloss begins to give way to something more revealing. Not less curated, necessarily, but more aware of its own performance.

Last week, I had the opportunity to speak with Xime Ponch, a Miami-based college student and Latina creator whose unfiltered, deeply relatable voice has earned her a multi-million-strong Gen Z audience across the US and Latin America.

From her work with M.A.C Cosmetics to everyday life in Miami, and the behind-the-scenes aspects, our conversation shifted between content creation, visibility, and what beauty looks like when it is lived rather than simply presented.

The Miami Aesthetic: How Xime Ponch Redefines Visibility in 2026

Xime’s content moves between languages, cultures, and audiences with an ease that feels instinctive. Whilst much of her content is in Spanish (with automated English translation available for her US audience), she has recently begun incorporating English more deliberately into her videos. That duality, between languages, between polished and personal, is what gives her work its traction.

It also speaks to something larger. For years, beauty has operated within relatively narrow visual codes: who is seen, how they are seen, and what is considered desirable have followed a recognisable pattern.

What creators like Xime do, simply by existing within the space as they are, is widen that frame. Not overtly, but meaningfully, enough for people watching to recognise themselves within it. Representation, particularly for younger audiences navigating identity through digital spaces, remains vital.

Inside the M.A.C Maker Programme: The Xime Ponch x M.A.C Cosmetics Collaboration

Given my own longstanding connection to M.A.C Cosmetics, and having grown up with a M.A.C makeup artist as a mother, this was the part of the conversation I was most curious about: Xime’s experience as a M.A.C Maker for M.A.C Mexico.

For those unfamiliar, the M.A.C Maker programme invites influencers to collaborate on limited-edition lipsticks, offering them full creative involvement, from shade development to packaging and campaign imagery.

Xime spoke candidly about the process, describing how surreal it felt to move from consumer to collaborator: designing the lipstick, selecting colours, shaping the packaging, and ultimately seeing the product come to life. The result: a limited-edition exclusive released in 2022, remains one of her proudest achievements.

One moment, in particular, felt universal. Reflecting on her relationship with the brand, she said:

She went on to describe going through her mother’s makeup bag as a child and recognising M.A.C Cosmetics products, a memory that makes her collaboration feel all the more full-circle. From engraving her name into the lipstick to touring across Mexico and meeting people who had purchased it, the experience extended far beyond product development.

What is striking is not simply the partnership itself, but the access it represents. The ability to move behind the scenes, to see how beauty products are conceptualised, developed, and brought to market, has for so long been closed off. Now, that process is becoming more visible, and with it, the industry feels less distant.

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Gen Z Beauty Economics: Addressing Accessibility & Product Dupes

For all the conversation around luxury beauty, there is an equally important one unfolding alongside it: access.

Beauty, at its best, should feel participatory. Yet price points, availability, and exclusivity often complicate that experience, particularly for younger consumers.

This is where Xime’s approach resonates. Alongside high-end recommendations, she consistently makes space for accessible alternatives, from drugstore staples to thoughtful “dupes” that achieve a similar effect without the same financial commitment. Not as a compromise, but as an acknowledgement of reality.

Most people are not building routines in isolation from their budgets. And creators who recognise that, who speak to both without judgement, are the ones audiences return to.

Why Unfiltered Content Remains The Future Of The Beauty Ed®🐞

At The Beauty Ed®, the idea of being “unfiltered” has never meant rejection; of beauty, of products, or of aspiration. It is about understanding what works, what doesn’t, and why, without over-complication.

What Xime’s content reflects, and what makes it resonate so widely, is that same clarity. There is polish, as there is with all content, but more importantly, there is space for honesty, for the in-between moments that make a recommendation feel genuine rather than performed.

As she put it:

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In a digital beauty space that can so easily tip into excess, that transparency is what builds trust.

Beauty is changing, though not always in ways that are immediately visible.

Sometimes, it shifts in tone, in who is speaking, and how they are being heard.

And sometimes, it is as simple as recognising yourself, your language, your experience, your reality, reflected back at you. That, perhaps, is where the real influence lies.

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Expert Hair.TOXX Review: Does Hair Cryotherapy Work? | The Beauty Ed® mentee Paloma tests the Hair.TOXX cryotherapy treatment at Haug London Haus. Featuring a deep dive into sub-zero hair science, avocado butter and hyaluronic acid ingredients, and real results for shine and frizz reduction. A real life verdict on the world’s first cold-plate hair treatment.

While my past few adventures with The Beauty Ed® have led me to gyms, I am extremely happy to report that my most recent press appointment was at Haug London Haus, where I was invited to try out a new hair treatment - an environment I happen to be MUCH more comfortable in.

I was trying out the world’s first cryotherapy for hair. Now, I know what you’re thinking: after my whole cold plunging debacle, I must have a penchant for the cold, but I really don’t. And spoiler alert: you do not feel the cold at all…and my hair looked fabulous at the end.

Some quick Hair.TOXX benefits:

• Reduces frizz

• Increases shine

• Does not use heat

• Strengthens hair at cuticle

What more could you possibly ask for?

The experience

I ventured into Fitzrovia on one of those sunny, early-Spring days that make you feel really grateful to live in London. Haug London Haus is tucked away behind New Oxford Street so you already know the location is fab to do some window (or real) shopping afterwards.

When I arrived for my Hair.TOXX appointment, I was told Katie was doing my hair - she was incredibly helpful and knowledgeable on all things cryotherapy and we chatted all things hair throughout the session which made it fly by.

‼️ I’ll keep this next part brief so as not to bombard you with the science:

We started with a double shampoo, which is more of a luxurious experience than you’d expect. We chose a clarifying one to really prep my hair for the treatment.

Then, Katie applied the Hair.TOXX mask to my wet hair, section by section, to ensure literally every single strand was coated. The mask is packed full of super-ingredients like avocado butter, hyaluronic acid and açai berry, which all contribute to healthy, moisturised and shiny locks (the most intriguing part of the invite was the promise of getting my hair up to 264% shinier - a bold claim, but I’m listening). The ingredients also help combat the wear and tear of daily life, like pollution, heat damage and London’s hard water.

Once Katie applied the mask all over, the cryotherapy began. Cryotherapy has been loved by wellness fanatics for quite some time, and in this case, it quickly freezes the mask’s benefits into your hair.

The tool looks like a hair straightener - one plate is coated with a thin layer of frost and the other with LED lights to activate the ingredients. They pass through each section of hair, again not missing a single strand.

Once your hair is successfully frozen, they rinse out the mask and finish the appointment with a blow-dry.

The whole appointment lasts around 45 minutes - most hair masks have to sit in your hair for at least an hour to be able to see a difference so this is definitely time effective. They even sent me home with a bag of Hair.TOXX goodies to maintain the treatment!

Post treatment (AKA, “someone please compliment my new hair”)

The day after my appointment, I had uni, and the first thing one of my friends said to me was “You’ve done something to your hair!”

For journalistic purposes, I made her tell me what exactly she noticed. She said it looked really shiny and even thought I had dyed it - proof that the treatment adds life back into your hair, and really, can you ask for more? Naturally, I launched into a whole explanation of my hair appointment.

Is Hair.TOXX worth it?

A treatment like this one costs £140, with the effects lasting up to five weeks, and I’ve definitely noticed a difference in how my hair feels. I will say, my hair is naturally straight and not prone to frizziness, but since the treatment, I’ve washed my hair three times, and the effects haven’t worn off. It’s definitely smoother, softer and more hydrated.

That said, it’s definitely more of a treat-yourself moment than a regular essential. If you’ve already got fabulous hair, you might not see a change drastic enough to justify the price.

My Final Verdict

I did wonder if this was yet another marketing ploy, and was worried I’d be underwhelmed. But (unfortunately for your bank account), I’d definitely recommend this treatment if you're looking for something to add life back to dull, frizzy hair.

I’m thinking it’s the perfect treatment before an event, after too much heat or dye-job damage, or when your hair / life feels like it needs a reset.

xx P

Disclaimer: This was a gifted treatment from Haug London Haus, but all opinions are my own!

Hair.TOXX is slowly rolling out to salons in the UK and US. Visit their website to find your nearest Hair.TOXX salon.

Thinking of trying? Let us know if you have any questions in the comments ♡

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