Beauty deals

VICTORIA Beckham has lost a trademark war against a beauty brand — because she is not famous enough in Norway.

Posh Spice argued that Norwegian firm Vendela Beauty’s VB logo would be confused with her global brand.

She claimed both the designs were dominated by the ­letters VB, the layout was almost identical, and both businesses sell similar products.

The fashion designer, 51, provided Instagram followers, international magazine features and sales figures to prove she had a big presence in the country.

But Norway’s patent body decided that there was not enough evidence her brand was well-known enough in the Nordic state — and ruled they were ­different enough to avoid confusion.

Ex-swimwear model Vendela Kirsebom had filed a trademark application in September 2021 for her beauty brand, which sells a range of skincare, makeup, hair care and ­fragrance products.

Read More on VICTORIA BECKHAM

HE’S BECK?

Huge clue Brooklyn family feud is thawing as David and Victoria show support

spice story

Victoria Beckham reveals what really happened when Geri quit Spice Girls

It was registered in December 2023, before Victoria ­formally opposed it.

But the Norwegian Industrial Property Office ruled against her.

Senior legal adviser Tord Hestenes wrote in the judgment that while Victoria is well known in the industry, it “does not mean that her initials or the combined mark can be considered well-known for this reason alone”.

He said her evidence had limited value because her follower count did not actually show how many were in Norway.

He added that it had not been successfully proved how many Norwegians read the international magazines cited, and the sales figures provided covered the entire Nordic region — not just Norway.

Mr Hestenes ruled there was “no risk of confusion” over the brands.

He added: “Documentation in the case does not provide grounds for assuming that the ­opponent’s mark will be linked to the name ­Victoria Beckham.”

Victoria’s representatives have been approached for comment on the verdict.

SUPERMODEL Kendall Jenner gives a brand a leg up in an ad campaign — for a beauty mask.

She posed with her limb in the air for Therabody’s LED TheraFace Mask Glo, which is said to reduce the signs of ageing.

Kendall said: “I’ve been using Therabody products for years, and I love anything that can help me feel and look my best. I started with the Theragun Mini and have used a number of their products.

“I was excited when the brand asked me to try the new LED mask. I’m always open to trying new products and treatments that are recommended to me by professionals.

“I absolutely love learning, especially about any superficial or natural anti-aging tricks. I’m a lot more focused on consistency and being gentle with my skin.”

Earlier in the year, the telly favourite wore a zip-up top and cycling shorts as she modelled for activewear brand Adanola.

JENNER-ATING BUZZ

Kendall and Kylie Jenner put on a stunning display at Paris Fashion Week

Kendall also has deals with fashion house FWRD, where one of her dresses, costs £2,618.

The fashion icon is one of the most in-demand models in the world, and she recently insisted she’s got no plans to stop anytime soon.

But, speaking to French Vogue, Kendall confessed she was thinking about starting a family one day.

“I dream, above all, of longevity. Even when I’m older, I hope people will still think of me,” she said.

“I’d like to stay in the limelight as the years go by… I would love to have a family, become a mother and have children.”

THIS Christmas snag £365 of beauty must-haves for just £79 – including the fan-favourite ‘glass skin in a bottle’ and the show-stopping ‘Wonder’ serum.

The set brings together 32 carefully curated mix of skincare and beauty essentials, designed to keep your complexion glowing all winter long.

2

From hydrating serums to luxurious creams, each product promises a little bit of pampering magic, making it a perfectly indulgent gift for yourself or someone special.

Shoppers are already calling it a bargain not to be missed, with the full retail value adding up to over £365, yet the Christmas set is available for just £79 – a fraction of the price.

What’s included?

For haircare, there is a Hair Syrup Rapunzel Pre-Wash Oil Treatment (50ml, deluxe size), Alfaparf Milano Semi Di Lino Diamond Illuminating Shampoo (75ml, deluxe size), and Alfaparf Milano Semi Di Lino Diamond Illuminating Conditioner (50ml, deluxe size).

You also get an Intense Moisture Hair Mask (300ml, full size), Bondi Boost Heat Protectant Spray (50ml, deluxe size), Incredilox Nourishing Argan Treatment Oil (100ml, full size) and a Brushworks Dry Shampoo (50ml, deluxe size).

Your skin will be pampered with a Madagascar Centella Ampoule (30ml, full size), a Biodance Bio-Collagen Real Deep Mask (34g, full size), a TIRTIR Milk Skin Toner (50ml, full size), and a Purito Mighty Bamboo Panthenol Cream (100ml, full size).

You can also enjoy a Dr.PawPaw Overnight Lip Mask (10ml, full size), a Geek & Gorgeous Jelly Joker Cleanser (50ml, deluxe size), Grace & Stella Under Eye Mask Set (full size), a Neutrogena Hydro Boost Hydrating Fluid SPF50 (15ml, deluxe size), a Clean Skin Club Clean Towels XL Travel Pack (x10, full size) and a Kanzen Anti-Bacterial Cleansing Water (125ml, full size).

The beauty set offers cosmetics such as the Clomana Marshmallow Sponge, a Spectrum Collections Everyday 4 Piece Makeup Brush Set, a Plump It! Volumising Lip Oil (3ml), and a Jecca Blac Glow Drops Highlighting Primer in Rose Pearl (20ml).

Treat yourself to a fresh manicure with the Nails Inc. It’s Topless 1-Step Gel Nail Polish (10ml) and Nails Inc. It’s Topless 1-Step Gel Nail Polish (10ml).

Relax with the bath and body samples, which include the ESPA Bergamot & Jasmine Body Wash (40ml), the ESPA Bergamot & Jasmine Body Lotion (40ml), a Fussy Natural Deodorant Stick and two Truly Beauty Unicorn Fruit & Coco Cloud Gift sets (60ml).

Other goodies include a Shay & Blue Parfum Nashwa Eau De Parfum (10ml), a White Silver Cloud Fluffy Sleep Mask, a Justmylook Spa Headband and three Justmylook Satin Hair Scrunchies.

Customer reviews

Customers loved the set last year, leaving rave reviews and calling it a “blow-away” buy for both the quality and quantity of products included.

Many praise how the items feel luxurious, perform well, and offer a real sense of value, making it one of the most talked-about beauty bargains this festive season.

One customer wrote: “Bought this last year for my daughter and she absolutely loved it!

“The variety and quality of products behind each door was exceptional, in fact she has since purchased some of the items to use throughout the year.

“Great calendar for trying some new products.”

Another added: “I truly enjoyed opening this one. A few different products in it unlike some advents who seems to copy each other. Very happy and especially the price point.”

A third penned: “I have just received my box as a birthday present. Love. Love. Love. What is there not to love?

“The box itself is just gorgeous … the contents are just amazing. It’s going to take some time to go through all the boxes .. can I wait until December …. nnahhhhh Let’s start now. Thank you.”

A fourth said: “WOW in a word! I’ve just received my JML Advent today and it’s absolutely beautiful.

“The box is gorgeous and so well made, each drawer holding the full 25 (not 24 like a classic advent) individual boxes (though I note there are several boxes with multiple items).

“It’s truly a lovely gift for yourself or a loved one (I ordered one for myself and another for my mum). I can’t recommend it enough, honestly.

“The team at JML have clearly put a lot of thought in to both the design of the box and the goodies inside it, not to mention the incredible value for money.

“I’m blown away, truly. Thanks Team JML – this advent is fabulous!!”

2

Beauty fans, do you need to stock up your make-up bag?

The Charlotte Tilbury Black Friday sale is your moment to snap up those cult favourites for less.

2

In previous years, the brand has run up to 30% off across selected makeup deals, skincare deals and bundles — with savings on icons like Pillow Talk lipstick, Hollywood Flawless Filter and Charlotte’s Magic Cream — so similar deals are likely on the cards for 2025.

We’ll be updating this guide all month with the most significant price drops, bundle steals and limited-time codes, so you can move fast when the best offers hit.

When is Black Friday 2025?

Black Friday 2025 lands on Friday, November 28 — pop it in your calendar if you’re planning a pre-Christmas haul.

It’s the day after Thanksgiving in the US, which is why retailers ramp up offers across the long Black Friday weekend.

If you’re eyeing Charlotte Tilbury Black Friday drops, that timeline usually means early-bird bundles and sitewide codes ahead of the big day.

We’ll keep this page updated throughout November with the standout offers as they appear, so you can move fast and nail your wishlist in time for December.

There’s also more meaning behind Black Friday than just sales and savings, and our explainer covers everything you need to know.

Live deals on Charlotte Tilbury

• Charlotte’s Magic Cream & Setting Spray Duo, £94.35 (was £111) – buy here
• Charlotte’s Award-Winning Complexion Trio, £60.90 (was £87) – buy here
• The Airbrush Bronzing Kit, £68.85 (was £81) – buy here
• The Pillow Talk Eye & Blush Duo, £68.85 (was £81) – buy here
• Bronzed, Blushing Beauty Kit, £67.20 (was £84) – buy here
• Flawless, Poreless Skin Secrets, £62.40 (was £78) – buy here
• Beautiful Skin Complexion Kit, £53.60 (was £67) – buy here
• Pillow Talk Collagen Lip Bath Kit, £41.65 (was £49) – buy here
• Charlotte’s Magic Hydration Revival Duo, £23.20 (was £29) at Cult Beauty – buy here
• Love Effect Lipstick – Love Talk, £23.20 (was £29) at Cult Beauty – buy here
• Fire Rose Luxury Palette, £36.80 (was £46) at Cult Beauty – buy here
• Lip Cheat Bad Romance, £17.60 (was £22) at Cult Beauty – buy here

Is Charlotte Tilbury taking part in Black Friday this year?

Charlotte Tilbury has some of the best Black Friday deals in beauty, and all signs point to the brand taking part again in 2025.

In recent events, Charlotte Tilbury has run up to 30% off across selected edits and bundles, plus tiered “the more you shop, the more you save” offers on its own site.

It’s also worth checking major stockists, as many mirror or add their own discounts alongside the brand’s offers. You can also check out our pick of the best Charlotte Tilbury dupes, if you’re feeling extra-thrifty.

We’ll update this page as soon as the first deals drop so you can compare bundles and bag the best prices.

Here are some of the best sites to buy the brand’s products:

What deals to expect from Charlotte Tilbury’s Black Friday sale 2025?

In 2024, we also saw limited-time kits up to 40% off, as well as the buzzed-about mystery boxes, which tended to sell out quickly.

Deals typically build across Cyber Weekend, with fresh offers landing over the long weekend — 2024’s sale went live on Black Friday and kept momentum with limited-time picks that sold fast.

If you’re chasing hero products, past discounts have included Magic Cream, Beautiful Skin Foundation, Airbrush Bronzer and Exaggereyes Volume Mascara, so keep those on your watchlist.

When is Cyber Monday 2025 and is Charlotte Tilbury taking part?

Cyber Monday 2025 falls on Monday, December 1, making it the online finale to the Black Friday weekend and a prime time to snag any beauty buys you missed the first time around.

Expect a fresh wave of online-only offers and flash deals to land on the day, often with slightly lower discounts than Black Friday but solid savings on bestsellers and bundles all the same.

As for Charlotte Tilbury, the brand typically maintains momentum going into Cyber Monday, so we’re expecting more edits, bundle drops, and sitewide codes to carry through the Monday rush.

Keep an eye on CharlotteTilbury.com as well as major stockists, as retailers often mirror the brand’s promos or throw in their own perks like freebies or extra cashback.

Our advice? If you see a good price on your wishlist items, pounce—sell-outs are common once the weekend wraps.

How much does Charlotte Tilbury’s shipping cost?

Standard delivery is free when you spend £49 or more, and it’s also free for Silver and Rose Gold Loyalty Members.

If your basket is under £49, Standard costs £2.95 and usually arrives in 2–5 working days.

Express delivery is free on orders over £185 and for Rose Gold Loyalty Members; otherwise it’s £5.95.

Order by 10:30pm Monday–Friday for next‑day delivery; placed after 10:30pm or over the weekend, it’ll arrive in 1–2 working days.

You can add gift wrapping from £1.95 (free on orders over £150).

For the full list of options, including click and collect, head to the Charlotte Tilbury shipping page.

Delivery promos often appear around Black Friday, so it’s worth checking during November.

As ever, prices and timeframes can change—double‑check at checkout before you buy.

Does Charlotte Tilbury offer any other discounts?

Yes! Beyond the big Charlotte Tilbury Black Friday rush, there are a few year-round ways to save.

Keep an eye out for gift-with-purchase promos: recent offers have included a FREE Unreal makeup bag when you buy three products, automatically added at checkout while stocks last.

The brand also runs rotating freebies (think surprise full-size treats when you hit a spend threshold), plus you can choose two complimentary samples with every order to test new formulas before you commit. 

Charlotte Tilbury’s site regularly features promo codes, curated kits and ‘magical savings’ edits with built‑in discounts, so it’s worth checking the offers hub before you check out.

Students and key workers can often access partner discounts via platforms like UNiDAYS and Health Service Discounts—availability can vary—while makeup artists can apply to the Pro Program for exclusive pro-only pricing and perks.

Tip: sign up for emails and app alerts ahead of November—delivery perks, early-bird bundles and limited-time codes tend to land around Charlotte Tilbury Black Friday.

Is Charlotte Tilbury cruelty-free?

Yes, Charlotte Tilbury is officially cruelty‑free.

The brand has the Leaping Bunny seal of approval by Cruelty Free International, a certification it announced in 2021 and continues to hold.

Leaping Bunny is the globally recognised “gold standard” for cruelty‑free beauty, meaning brands must meet strict, supply‑chain‑wide criteria and agree to ongoing independent checks to keep their status.

You’ll also spot the Leaping Bunny logo across Charlotte Tilbury’s communications and packaging as a quick reassurance while you shop.

For the latest wording direct from the brand, Charlotte Tilbury’s help centre confirms its Leaping Bunny approval and cruelty‑free position..

Who is Charlotte Tilbury?

Charlotte Tilbury is the British makeup artist turned beauty entrepreneur behind the eponymous brand.

She’s an MBE and the founder, chair and chief creative officer of Charlotte Tilbury Beauty, which she launched in 2013 after years of shaping red‑carpet and runway looks.

2

Charlotte Tilbury sits at a premium price point, but the payoff is there on the brand’s biggest hitters.

Our writers highly rate the textures, flattering shades, and long-wear finishes.

Sun Shopping writer, Maisie Bovingdon, put the Pillow Talk Plumpgasm lip gloss to the test and shared: “The formula is not tacky or sticky, but silky smooth like a nourishing lip oil should be, but the best part and a non-negotiable for me is the product doesn’t slip.”

While our writer, Harriet Flook, tried the Charlotte Tilbury Unreal Skin Foundation Stick and loved it so much, she now “won’t use anything else.”

It’s the same story with icons like Hollywood Flawless Filter, Airbrush powders and setting spray, and Charlotte’s Magic Cream—once they’re in your kit, they’re hard to swap out.

The brand also has a cult following, including beauty influencers, pros, and celebrities such as Kate Moss, Gigi Hadid, and Jourdan Dunn.

That said, it’s still worth matching formulas to your skin type and testing shades where you can—minis, samples and curated kits help you dial in the right fit.

If you’re value-minded, keep an eye on bundle edits, loyalty perks and, of course, Charlotte Tilbury Black Friday, when you’ll often see sitewide codes or set savings that make the splurge smarter.

What are Charlotte Tilbury’s most popular products?

Charlotte Tilbury’s icons are the ones shoppers talk about for a reason.

Charlotte’s Magic Cream is the glow-boosting moisturiser makeup artists reach for to prep and plump skin before foundation.

Hollywood Flawless Filter is the radiance hero you can wear alone or mix with base for that soft-focus sheen fans love.

Pillow Talk stays the brand’s most famous pink‑nude across lipstick and liner, with Lip Cheat in Iconic Nude, another everyday liner favourite.

For a smooth, airbrushed finish that lasts, the Airbrush Flawless Finish powder and Airbrush Flawless Setting Spray are repeat buys.

If you’re building an easy soft‑glam eye, the Luxury Palette quads are always a safe bet.

Keep these on your radar for Charlotte Tilbury Black Friday—they’re the first to fly.

AS someone who tried and failed for years to master the art of the at-home blowout, I have the rise of air tools to thank for my transformed hair styling routine.

Every hair tool under the sun promises “salon-worthy results at home,” and I’ve been testing the Shark FlexStyle hair tool for a year to determine if it can truly deliver.

Shark FlexStyle Air Styler and Hair Dryer, £229.99 (was £279.99)

Known originally for its popular vacuums, Shark branched out into the beauty tech space in 2022 with the launch of the FlexStyle Air Styling and Drying System.

The beauty gadget features five different attachments, with an option to build your own bundle based on your hair type.

All of the FlexStyle attachments can also be bought separately on the Shark website for £24.99 each, so you can add to your collection over time.

Shark swooped in at a time when beauty enthusiasts were searching for a more affordable alternative to the £400+ Airwrap.

At £279.99, it’s still an investment, but it’s a fraction of the cost of a Dyson Airwrap i.d.

Is it worth ditching your current tools for an all-in-one gadget? Read below for my full Shark FlexStyle review.

Pros:

• Creates voluminous blow-outs
• Minimal heat damage
• Requires little effort (once you nail the technique)
• Multiple attachments included
• Option to build your own set
• Easy to switch between styler and dryer
• Cheaper than similar alternatives

Cons:

• Noisy
• Bulky for travelling
• Takes a while to master the technique
• Hot brush attachment can feel rough on the hair

Rating: 8/10

How I tested the Shark FlexStyle Air Styler

Shark FlexStyle Air Styler and Hair Dryer, £229.99 (was £279.99)

As The Sun’s Fashion and Beauty eCommerce Writer, it’s my job to try out products that are causing a buzz in the industry.

I’m obsessed with all things beauty, so I’ve tested my fair share of hair stylers over the years, including the best Dyson Airwrap dupe and my Dyson Airwrap i.d review, but it takes a lot for one to become a regular in my routine.

The hype around the Shark FlexStyle is still going, and I can confidently share my thoughts after trialling the tool for a year.

The Smoothing Concentrator (hair drying nozzle) and Auto-Wrap Curling Barrels are my go-to FlexStyle attachments, so I’ll be talking mostly about them.

But I’ve also tested the Paddle Brush, Oval Brush and Fizz Fighter heads.

For reference, I have long, wavy hair that can get frizzy after washing, and I have extensions.

Shark FlexStyle 5-in-1 air styler review: The Nitty Gritty

First impressions

1

Shark FlexStyle Air Styler and Hair Dryer, £229.99 (was £279.99)

Every beauty influencer in existence seems to own the FlexStyle, so I was pretty familiar with its appearance before trying it out.

While sleek in design, the cable and attachments together are on the bulky side (which is to be expected due to its multiple functions), but it’s meant I’ve avoided travelling with it so far.

When purchasing the FlexStyle, shoppers can select the five-in-one bundle, or mix and match their own (choosing four attachments).

I have the model that comes with five attachments: Auto-Wrap Curlers (one for each side of the head), a Paddle Brush, an Oval Brush, a Styling Concentrator, and a Diffuser.

My Fizz Fighter Finishing Tool is a new addition, which I bought separately to try and tame my frizz at my roots.

As I have attachments in my bundle that I don’t use (the diffuser, as it’s designed for curly/ coily hair), I would recommend the Build Your Own Hair Styling and Drying System to get the most for your money.

Does it deliver?

If you’re looking for a way to create bouncy blow-outs yourself, the Shark FlexStyle absolutely delivers, but it does take practice to perfect the process.

My biggest reservation about the FlexStyle before trying it was the drying system.

Shark FlexStyle Air Styler and Hair Dryer, £229.99 (was £279.99)

A multitasking styler runs the risk of being a jack of all trades but a master of none, but Shark has ensured its hair dryer doesn’t compromise on power.

I swear by my Dyson Supersonic Hair Dryer for quick results on my long hair, and the FlexStyle pretty much matches its drying time.

Call me easily pleased, but the way the tool rotates between a dryer and a styler is one of my favourite features.

The fact that it twists into a right angle makes it so much easier to use, and — in a common theme with the FlexStyle — it never makes me feel like I’m overworking to get results.

There are three heat and power settings (I tend to use mine on full blast), and following the instructions of online videos, I always use the Cool Shot feature for locking the style in place.

The Paddle Brush (for straight styles) and the Oval Brush (for blow-outs) both have boar and plastic bristles that are great for gripping the hair, but I’d recommend being gentle to avoid snagging the hair.

The newest addition to my routine is the Frizz Fighter Finishing Tool.

Like the barrels, it attracts the hair, gliding from the root to smooth frizz and flyaways, essentially enhancing the effects of the other attachments.

Now, for quite possibly the main selling point — the Auto-Wrap Curling Barrels.

Shark FlexStyle Air Styler and Hair Dryer, £229.99 (was £279.99)

I have to admit, I was quickly humbled when I realised that the beauty influencers were making the process look far easier than it is.

The airflow technology makes the air wrap around the barrel automatically to create a curl, but I struggled with getting it to pick up the hair for the first few attempts.

And when I did, the curl would drop out within the first few hours.

After plenty of practice (and TikTok tutorials), I managed to master the method, but patience is needed.

I found the key is keeping the sections small as it makes it easier for the hair to wrap, and use a product to hold the curls (I swear by the Colour Wow XL Volumiser).

Unlike when I use curling tongs, the curls aren’t going to last me for days on end, but they do look great that day, and after sleeping on them, I’m left with a subtle wave that I’ll sometimes go over with the barrels.

I also find the whole process to be far more enjoyable than curling my hair with tongs (which could be down to years of the same routine) – and the airflow makes creating curls far more efficient.

The one thing I’d change about the FlexStyle is the noise.

Shark FlexStyle Air Styler and Hair Dryer, £229.99 (was £279.99)

When my roommate borrows it, I can hear the whirring from the other side of the flat, so it’s not one you could use while watching TV or late at night.

Keeping heat damage to a minimum is important to me as I already put enough strain on my hair with bleach, extensions and frequent styling.

Can I confidently say that the FlexStyle causes zero damage? No.

But can I confidently say that it creates a salon-worthy blow-out while causing far, far less damage than other hair tools? Absolutely.

Results aside, I can tell when I’m using the FlexStyle that it’s transferring way less heat than a tong or straightener (you can read my article on the best hair straighteners here).

There’s no burning smell (and if there is, you may need to clean the filter), and my hair has felt healthier since ditching the tongs for the FlexStyle regularly.

I love how my hair turns out every time I use the Shark FlexStyle, and it’s absolutely worth investing time to master the technique in order to get professional-looking results.

Shark FlexStyle FAQs:

Shark FlexStyle price

The Shark FlexStyle isn’t cheap, but if you’re keen to invest in a does-it-all hair tool, it’s more affordable than its competitors.

Shark’s 5-in-1 Hair Dryer and Air Styler with Storage Case is currently on sale for £229.99, while the Build Your Own bundle is slashed to £199.99.

Refurbished models are also available on eBay, a cheaper alternative to buying the FlexStyle brand new.

Shark released a 2025 edition of the FlexStyle earlier this year, which beauty fans can buy for £279.99.

Where to buy the Shark FlexStyle 5-in-1 air styler and hair dryer?

The Shark FlexStyle is available to buy online at Boots, Amazon and of course, the Shark website.

Most major beauty retailers are also currently stocking the styler, including Sephora, Lookfantastic and Cult Beauty.

There are several colourways to choose from, including the limited-edition sparkle FlexStyle that comes in stunning champagne and black shades (and would be perfect if you’re buying the styler as a gift).

The full list of places to shop online:

Is the Shark FlexStyle worth it?

Using the Shark FlexStyle takes some practice to get it right, but once you get the technique down, it’s so worth it.

The styler works effectively on long and thick hair, but those with fine hair will need to work harder for long-lasting curls.

At over £250+, it’s not cheap, but if you blow-dry and curl your hair regularly, it’s an investment worth considering.

The best part about the FlexStyle?

It causes far less heat damage than tongs and conventional hair straighteners – not to mention that it’s significantly more enjoyable to use.

How to use Shark FlexStyle?

For best results, start with towel-dried hair and dry with the Smoothing Concentrator until your hair is roughly 80% dry.

You can use the Paddle Brush attachment to straighten your hair and add shine, or the Oval Brush to add bounce and volume.

The Auto-Wrap Curlers use a clever technology that wraps and curls your hair around the barrel automatically.

All you need to do is hold your hair in place for 10-15 seconds, and then use the shot button to lock in your curl before releasing.

Repeat across sections for a full head of soft, bouncy curls.

Shark FlexStyle 5-in-1 Air Style alternatives

It’s no secret that the Dyson Airwrap i.d is the FlexStyle’s main competitor (make sure to read our Dyson Airwrap i.d review).

Revlon, Bondi Boost and Silk’n all have similar hair tools, and the Sun Shopping team also tried and tested the Babyliss Air Style 1000 in a Dyson Airwrap dupe review.

Beauty fans who are mostly tempted by the Oval Brush attachment on the FlexStyle should also check out our round-up of the best hot brushes.

GET ready, Prime members! Amazon’s next major sales event is just hours away.

In recent years, Prime members have been treated to two exclusive sales – Prime Day in July and Prime Big Deal Days, which typically takes place in October.

Amazon Prime Day deals

Amazon’s last Prime Day sale kicked off on July 8 and ran for four days, ending on July 11.

During the sale, Prime subscribers scored discounts on everything from tech and kitchen essentials to hair and beauty bargains and robot vacuum cleaners.

We also spotted plenty of deals on Amazon devices such as Echo speakers, Fire TVs, and Ring security systems, plus major price drops on top brands and trending tech products, such as dash cams, and we’re predicting similar savings next week.

It’s the last major sales event from Amazon ahead of Black Friday – so make sure you don’t miss out, especially if you’re hoping to get a head start on your Christmas shopping or pick up a few affordable winter essentials.

Just remember: to take advantage of the deals, you’ll need an Amazon Prime subscription (there’s a 30-day free trial), currently costing £8.99 per month or £95 per year.

Jump to…

When does Amazon Prime Day 2025 start?

Amazon’s second Prime Day sale of the year, Prime Big Deal Days, will take place on October 7, 2025.

The two-day shopping event ends on October 8, 2025.

In 2024, Amazon Prime Big Deal Days ran from October 8 to 9.

Amazon Prime Day: The best deals live now

We’ve rounded up a wide range of deals you can shop right now.

Best Amazon home deals

• Treadmill Walking Pad Running Machine, £149.99 for Prime members (was £599.99) – buy here
• LEENON Dehumidifiers for Home, £109.99 (was £159.99) – buy here
• Amazon Smart Air Quality Monitor (Newest gen), £26.99 (was £69.99) – buy here
• Alexander Graham 3 Tier Heated Clothes Airer Dryer, £92.65 (was £109) – buy here
• Slumberdown Sleepy Nights Electric Blanket King Size, £32.60 (was £42.99) – buy here
• Slumberdown Feels Like Down King Size Duvet 13.5 Tog, £21.56 (was £31.19) – buy here
• Yankee Candle Scented Candle Vanilla Cupcake Large Jar, £16.99 (was £29.99) – buy here
• Roborock Q10 S5+ Robot Vacuum, £349.99 (was £399.99) – buy here
• VACTechPro V15 Cordless Vacuum Cleaner, £79.97 (was £129.99) – buy here
• Keplin 9L Dual Zone Air Fryer, £50.99 (was £89.99) – buy here
• Nespresso Vertuo Plus Automatic Pod coffee machine, £75.98 (was £139) – buy here
• SodaStream Terra Sparkling Water Maker, £54.99 (was £109.99) – buy here
• Ninja Perfect Temperature Kettle, £79 (was £99.99) – buy here
• Tefal Induction Non‑Stick Coating 5‑Piece Cookware Set, £66.99 (was £150) – buy here
• Tefal Blendforce II Blender, £29.99 (was £49.99) – buy here

Best Amazon everyday essentials deals

• Finish Dishwasher Tablet (73 tablets), £9.53 (was £12.50) – buy here
• Calgon 4-in-1 Washing Machine Cleaner and Water Softener Tablets, £17.95 (was £23.33) – buy here
• Lenor Outdoorable Fabric Conditioner 480 Washes (8×60), £23.80 (was £40) – buy here
• Comfort Pure Sensitive Fabric Conditioner 4.8 L, £6.64 (was £9) – buy here
• Vanish Professional Oxi Action Carpet & Upholstery Stain Remover Spray, £7 (was £10.35) – buy here
• Dettol Antibacterial Laundry Sanitiser, £13.51 (was £19) – buy here
• Fairy MaxPower Washing Up Liquid Lemon 8 x 545 ML, £20.32 (was £24) – buy here
• Splesh by Cusheen 3-ply Toilet Roll Aloe Vera Fragrance (72 Pack), £21.84 (was £32.99) – buy here
• Flash Speedmop Mrs Hinch’s Wet Mop Head Floor Cleaner Starter Kit, £10 (was £16) – buy here
• Energizer Alkaline Power – AA Batteries (24 Pack), £11.04 (was £12.99) – buy here
• Heinz Salad Cream Extra Light 415g, £2.21 (was £3.39) – buy here
• Heinz Baked Beans Snap Pots 200g (4 pack), £2.66 (was £3.50) – buy here
• FELIX Tasty Shreds Mixed Selection in Gravy Wet Cat Food 40x80g, £12.30 (was £20.77) – buy here

Best Amazon tech deals

• Power Bank Fast Charging 26800mAh, £26.99 for Prime members (was £219.99) – buy here
• Echo Pop (Newest gen), £22.99 (was £44.99) – buy here
• Amazon Fire HD 10 tablet (newest gen), £69.99 (was £149.99) – buy here
• Amazon Fire HD 8 tablet (newest gen), £49.99 (was £99.99) – buy here
• Amazon Fire Max 11 tablet (newest gen), £129.99 (was £249.99) – buy here
• Amazon Fire HD 8 Kids Pro tablet (newest gen), £69.99 (was £149.99) – buy here
• Made for Amazon BuddyPhones Bluetooth Child Headphones with Boom Microphone, £19.49 (was £39.99) – buy here
• Kindle Scribe (2022 release), £199.99 (was £329.99) – buy here
• Apple 2025 MacBook Air 13-inch Laptop with M4 chip, £849 (was £999) – buy here
• Samsung Galaxy A16 4G Android Smartphone, £119 (was £169) – buy here
• Soundcore by Anker P20i True Wireless Earbuds, £16.99 (was £29.99) – buy here
• Amazon Fire TV 32-inch 2-Series, £169.99 (was £249.99) – buy here
• Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K (Newest gen), £25.99 (was £59.99) – buy here
• New Blink camera (Outdoor 4) + Blink Mini 2 White, £31.49 (was £99.98) – buy here
• Ring Battery Video Doorbell (2024 release), £39.99 (was £99.99) – buy here

Best Amazon beauty deals

• La Roche-Posay Effaclar Duo+M Anti-Breakout Corrective Gel Moisturiser, £15.68 (was £20.90) – buy here
• Olay Super Serum 30ml, £18.89 (was £39.99) – buy here
• Weleda Skin Food, £8.95 (was £12.07) – buy here
• COSRX Advanced Snail 96 Mucin Power Essence 100ml, £15.85 (was £23.99) – buy here
• L’Oréal Paris Laser Renew Triple Action Anti-Ageing Night Cream, £14.99 (was £29.99) – buy here
• Mighty Patch Original Spot Patches by Hero Cosmetics, £9.89 (was £17.99) – buy here
• Philips Electric Shaver 3000 Series, £54.99 (was £139.99) – buy here
• Remington PROluxe Midnight Hair Dryer, £29.99 (was £84.99) – buy here
• Pantene Molecular Bond Repair Intensive Hair Mask with Biotin 300ml, £4.71 (was £10) – buy here
• COLOR WOW Dream Coat Supernatural Spray, £19 (was £27) – buy here
• Olaplex No. 4 Bond Maintenance Shampoo, £18.90 (was £28) – buy here
• Maybelline New York Lash Sensational Sky High Mascara, £7.69 (was £12.99) – buy here
• Maybelline Instant Anti Age Eraser Eye Concealer, £6.50 (was £9.99) – buy here
• OPI Infinite Shine Nail Polish Red, £6.73 (was £18) – buy here
• Sarah Jessica Parker Lovely EDP Spray 200ml, £17.75 (was £96.70) – buy here

Best Amazon garden deals

• TIKTALK Garden Rake 175cm, £15.99 (was £19.99) – buy here
• Murray 18V Lithium-Ion Leaf Blower Kit, £49.99 (£79) – buy here
• Garden Broom, £15.39 (was £19.99) – buy here
• ZELATAN 52cm Cordless Hedge Trimmer, £40.99 (was £59.99) – buy here
• Byhagern Lawn Edging Tool, £20.30 (was £29.99) – buy here
• Patio Weed Remover Tool with Long Handle, £16.99 (was £19.99) – buy here
• Enzeno Outdoor Garden Furniture Set Covers, £26.99 (was £40.99) – buy here
• WFX Leather Gardening Gloves, £5.94 (was £7.99) – buy here
• Pelle & Sol 60L Multi-Purpose Compost, £12.95 (was £16.99) – buy here
• Miracle-Gro Evergreen Complete 4-in-1 Lawn Food, £18.90 (was £22.99) – buy here
• Ninja Woodfire Electric BBQ Grill & Smoker, £199.99 (was £299.99) – buy here
• Jamie Oliver by Tefal Outdoor Gas Pizza Oven, £237.49 (was £349.99) – buy here

Best Amazon toy deals

• LEGO Ideas Disney Pixar Luxo Jr. Lamp Building Set, £44.99 (was £59.99) – buy here
• LEGO Mario Kart, £109.99 (was £149.99) – buy here
• LEGO Botanicals Orchid, £29.99 (was £44.99) – buy here
• LEGO Harry Potter Book Nook: Hogwarts Express Set with a Train Toy, £67.99 (was £89.99) – buy here
• LEGO Halloween Barn, £9.99 (was £12.99) – buy here
• Monopoly Harry Potter Edition, £21.99 (was £37.99) – buy here
• MEGA Pokémon Charizard Action Figure, £14.99 (was £22.99) – buy here
• Paw Patrol Adventure Bay Bath Playset, £19.99 (was £29.99) – buy here
• PAW Patrol Fire Rescue Command Center with Marshall Figure, £37.49 (was £49.99) – buy here
• AOLEVA Wooden Afternoon Tea Set for Toddler, £14.75 (was £17.35) – buy here
• Pukomc 36/60in Toddler Trampoline for Kids, £26.59 (was £49.99) – buy here
• LeapFrog Build-a-Slice Pizza Cart, £39.99 (was £59.99) – buy here

Best Prime Day deals on Amazon services

During the sales event, Amazon offers promotional deals and free trials on several services, including Prime.

Here are just a few of our favourite deals you can snap up today:

When was the last Prime Day event?

The last Prime Day sale took place between July 8 and July 11, 2025, giving bargain hunters four days to shop exclusive deals.

Prime members were treated to thousands of discounts across everything from tech and beauty to home essentials and fashion, with many items hitting their lowest-ever prices.

Here are the dates of past Prime Day sales:

• 2015: 15 July
• 2016: 12 July
• 2017: 11-12 July
• 2018: 17-18 July
• 2019: 15-16 July
• 2020: 13-14 October
• 2021: 21-22 June
• 2022: 12-13 July
• 2023: 11-12 July
• 2024: 16-17 July
• 2025: 8-11 July

Do I need to be a Prime member to take part in Prime Day?

Yes, if you want access to the Prime Day deals, you’ll need to sign up for a Prime membership.

Never been a member before? You’re in luck – Amazon offers a 30-day free trial for newbies.

This essentially gives you full access to the mammoth sale and all the Prime perks, without spending a penny.

Just be sure to set a reminder – you’ll need to cancel before the 30-day trial ends to avoid being charged the £8.99 monthly fee.

If you’re planning to keep Prime long-term, you can save by opting for the annual membership at £95.

How much is Amazon Prime?

An Amazon Prime membership costs £8.99 per month or £95 for the whole year – but with all the perks on offer, it could save you a fortune.

Amazon’s yearly subscription service gives you access to a treasure trove of benefits, from quick delivery to binge-worthy telly and exclusive discounts.

The annual membership works out cheaper than paying monthly, saving you nearly £13 over the year – perfect if you’re planning to stick with Prime long-term.

Not sure if it’s worth splashing the cash? Amazon offers a 30-day free trial for new members (or anyone who hasn’t been a member in the last 12 months).

This means you can enjoy all the Prime perks, including access to the Amazon sale, without spending a penny – just remember to cancel before the 30 days are up if you don’t want to be charged.

Do Prime Day deals change daily?

The Prime Day discounts are a bargain hunter’s dream.

The mega-sale features a mix of different deal types, including:

• “Deals of the day,” which last a limited time – or vanish even quicker if stock runs out.
• Limited “lightning deals” which appear and disappear in the blink of an eye once stock is gone.
• Some offers (particularly Amazon’s own devices) will stick around for the full sale period.

How long will Prime Day 2025 deals last?

As mentioned above, Prime Big Deal Days is a two-day event that will take place between October 7 and 8, 2025.

The sale is slightly shorter than July’s Prime Day event, which gave shoppers four days of unmissable deals.

It was the biggest Prime Day event to date, with customers saving billions on deals across more than 35 product categories.

Our top tip? If you spot something you’ve been eyeing up with a massive discount, grab it quickly.

Hesitate and you’ll likely miss out – these deals wait for no one!

Does Amazon have Prime Day deals on everything?

Prime Day is a shopaholic’s dream, with discounts across virtually every Amazon department.

Here are several categories worth checking out:

Whether you’re shopping for yourself or hunting for gifts, you’ll find something on sale in whatever category catches your eye.

Can students take part in Prime Day?

Yes, students can get in on all the Prime Day bargains.

Amazon offers students a special Prime Student membership that comes with the same perks as regular Prime but at a serious discount – just £4.49 monthly.

Even better, students get an incredible six-month free trial (compared to the normal 30 days), giving you access to all the Prime Day deals without spending a penny.

To qualify, you’ll need:

• A valid university email address
• Proof of enrollment

The student discount lasts for four years or until you graduate (whichever comes first) – making this one of the best bargains going for cash-strapped students.

How do I cancel my Amazon Prime 30-day free trial after Prime Day?

If you’re taking advantage of an Amazon Prime trial to grab Prime Day bargains, you’ll need to cancel before your 30 days are up to avoid being charged the full membership fee.

Luckily, cancelling is a doddle – here’s exactly how to do it:

On your phone or tablet:

1. Open the Amazon app and tap the profile icon at the bottom
2. Tap ‘Your Account’
3. Select ‘Manage Prime Membership’
4. Tap ‘Manage Membership’ at the top
5. Hit ‘Update, cancel and more’
6. Scroll down and tap ‘End membership’

On your computer:

1. Head to Amazon.co.uk/gp/primecentral
2. Click ‘Update, cancel, and more’ below ‘Membership’
3. Click ‘End membership’
4. Select the yellow ‘Cancel My Benefits’ button
5. Click ‘Continue to Cancel’
6. Confirm by clicking ‘Cancel Membership’

Even after cancelling, you’ll still keep all your Prime benefits until the end of your trial period.

You’ll see the exact end date displayed on the screen after cancelling.

If you end up forgetting to cancel and get charged, Amazon may offer a full refund if you haven’t used any Prime benefits since the trial ended.

How often is Amazon Prime Day?

Amazon Prime Day typically takes place once a year in July.

The retail giant also hosts a second major sales event in October, known as Prime Big Deal Days.

In addition to these two events, Amazon runs regular sales throughout the year, including a Spring Sale in March.

The retailer also offers unbeatable deals during Black Friday and Cyber Monday, so there are plenty of opportunities to save.

MAKE-UP lovers have spotted Home Bargains is selling a fancy brand that usually costs £33 for just £6.

The budget retailer has slashed the price of some make-up must-haves from the cult favourite BareMinerals.

3

3

Bargain hunters can make savings of up to 78% in an online only deal that includes a range of moisturisers, lip gloss, and more.

Beauty fans can snap up the popular Bareminerals Complexion Rescue Tinted Moisturiser for just £6.99 down from £33 in a variety of shades.

Other goodies include a Mineralist Lip Gloss-Balm for a steal at £4.99 down from £23 and the Barepro Pressed Powder Foundation for £6.99.

Premium make-up

The premium make-up brand’s tinted moisturiser provides a great option if you’re looking for natural, breathable coverage that looks after your skin with its added SPF 30 protection.

It’s described as an “oil free, mineral-based moisturiser offering sheer-to-light coverage, broad spectrum SPF 30, and a clean matte finish.”

You can take your pick too with a range of moisturisers to choose from depending on skin tone that will also help improve skin texture.

The pressed powder foundation “instantly blurs the appearance of pores, fine lines, and imperfections”.

It’s infused with Shea Butter, Cacao Butter and Vitamin E that will help protect and improve your skin.

What’s better is that it comes with a convenient puff applicator which makes it perfect for use on the go.

While the lip-gloss balm will “deeply hydrate and smooth lips, instantly and over time” while adding a glossy shine.

The product is great for both everyday wear and statement lips and claims to make them up to 50% smoother.

BareMinerals was launched in 1995 and touts itself as the “original clean beauty brand.”

The brand was founded by Leslie Blodgett who said she wanted to start a makeup line that helped you achieve beauty that was more than skin deep.

“I always felt that beauty was something you felt, and it came with confidence, and it came with feeling good physically and emotionally,” she says.

More Beauty Bargains

There’s plenty more beauty products to be had for great prices at retailers too.

Just this week, beauty fans were racing to TK Maxx to nab a £20 discount on Charlotte Tillbury’s cream with another viral product in their hair aisle.

A TikTok user revealed the store is stocking a huge haul of high-end makeup and haircare – including the cult classic Charlotte Tilbury Magic Cream for nearly half the price.

A shopper also recently shared how they spotted dupes of P.Louise’s five-star rated lip kits for just £3 in B&M.

Considering the cult-favourite product is usually £22 – the similar-looking products could be ideal for those on a budget.

And beauty fans have been racing to pick up the Boots beauty advent calendar filled with £289 worth of products.

The 24-day calendar includes an impressive 20 full-size skincare items, including bestsellers from Round Lab, Cetaphil and Byoma.

3

AFTER transforming her thinning hair to an enviable mane, one beauty buff has shared her secret weapon.

Sofia, a hair loss researcher from the UK, previously confirmed that she used to suffer with bald patches and hair thinning – two common concerns for both men and women.

2

2

Naturally, Sofia did some research into the best ways to stop breakage and shedding – and now, rocking thick and luscious locks, she shares her top finds on TikTok.

The trichologist recently took to her page where she revealed ”the best shampoo for hair growth” – and it’s currently on sale at Boots too.

Raving about the wallet-friendly Nizoral Anti Dandruff Shampoo, Sofia said: ”If you’re losing hair and you’re not using this shampoo, you are missing out.”

According to the beauty buff, this haircare product ”is one of the only proven shampoos to actually revere female pattern hair loss” as its formula ”blocks the hormone” that’s behind hair loss.

However, when using the shampoo, Sofia warned there are three things you should be aware of, including not using the weaker formula.

”Don’t waste your money on the 1% – get the pink bottle.”

Whilst you may be tempted to use this shampoo all the time, the whizz warned to not ”overdo it”.

”Nizoral is a very drying shampoo. Something that I actually recommend is combining it with something like a bond-building shampoo.”

Don’t want to fork out a fortune on the viral Olaplex range? The are several more affordable options on the high street, including Elvive Bond Repair range and Pantene Bond Repair line for a fraction of the price.

”Or even just a really hydrating shampoo to make suee your hair is getting damaged and to make sure you’re keeping it in a as good of a condition as possible.”

When shampooing, the TikToker also warned to not apply the product on your ends at all – or risk behind left with a ”really dry” mess.

If you can’t find the exact brand at your local store, Sofia said you can use any shampoo as long as it’s got ”ketoconazole” as an ingredient.

”Lastly, the most important thing I have to say about this is that even though this is a great shampoo to be using and it can definitely help with your results, if you’re not combining it with things like minoxidil and other treatments, you probably won’t see amazing results.”

Minoxidil is a medication that can be taken orally or topically.

Hair Loss 101

HAIR pro Samantha Cusick has revealed everything you need to know about hair loss. 

Why Does Hair Loss Happen?

Hair loss can be influenced by so many factors, from genetics and hormone changes to lifestyle choices.

Stress, diet, and even hair care habits can all impact hair strength.

It’s perfectly normal to lose some hair each day, but sometimes the body can shed more than usual, responding to things like hormonal shifts or even life stressors.

Why It Happens More This Time of Year

Have you ever noticed your hair seems to shed more in autumn? That’s seasonal shedding!

During summer, we hold onto extra hair to protect our scalp from the sun.

As the weather cools, it’s like our body recalibrates and lets go of those extra strands.

Dry, cooler air can also make hair more brittle, making it easier to lose a little extra volume during these months.

Hacks and Affordable Buys to Treat Hair loss

The great news? You don’t need to spend a fortune on pricey treatments to support your hair.

Try daily scalp massages—they’re so simple but really help boost blood flow to the follicles.

Castor oil is another fantastic, budget-friendly option that’s rich in nutrients to strengthen your strands.

Adding a bit more protein to your diet and a biotin supplement can also work wonders for overall hair health.

Products to Avoid

Steer clear of products with high levels of alcohol, sulphates, and parabens – they can be drying and damage hair over time.

Heat styling and chemical treatments can also cause breakage, so try to use them sparingly.

Instead, look for gentle, hydrating formulas to support your scalp and keep hair healthier through the seasons.

It is an over-the-counter product that acts as a vasodilator, taking more blood flow to your scalp.

The treatment shouldn’t be stopped, as hair loss will occur again.

You can purchase topical minoxidil easily on the likes of Amazon where you can bag a bulk of the product to last you several months.

It should be applied to the scalp every single night and means the product cost just 30p per application.

Sofia went on: ”Because if you’re someone who’s dealing with hair loss, the more things that you throw at it, the better your results will be.

”This should be one thing out of a routine of, like, six to seven things if you really want to see results.”

Posted just five days ago, the informative clip has taken the internet by storm, winning the beauty buff more than 212k views and over 7,000 likes.

168 people flooded to comments to share their thoughts and struggles with hair and scalp health.

One person had great success, writing: ”I’ve been using Nizoral shampoo 2% twice a week with Minoxidil foam 5% every night and after 6 months my hair has grown back faster healthier and stronger.”

Another chimed in: ”it’s so expensive I only got 3 washes out of it.”

”Nizoral made my scalp greasier,” a person claimed.

AFTER a lifetime spent trying to keep her curly locks in check, Hilary Freeman, 53, from London, sees if the new Airwrap makes styling them fuss-free.

When I was 12 and puberty kicked in, my previously smooth curls turned, almost overnight, into an uncontrollable mop of frizz.

7

7

Ever since, I’ve spent thousands on styling products and tools, for a daily battle to tame my locks.

My hair is like candy floss: fine in texture, soft and big. Humidity and rain are its mortal enemies.

Yes, I am that woman you see with an umbrella in the slightest drizzle.

That’s because the merest hint of moisture turns me into Art Garfunkel. Or worse, Phil Spector.

Like them, I have what some affectionately call a “Jewfro”.

As a teen, I begged my mother to allow me to have my hair chemically straightened.

The foul-smelling treatment, in effect a reverse perm — this was well before the days of Brazilian blow dries — didn’t work, and just damaged my locks, making them even more frizzy.

In the Nineties, when poker-straight locks became almost compulsory, I bought hair straighteners.

But I didn’t have the patience or expertise to use them properly.

I ended up with a half-straight, half-curly do — and a second- degree burn on my neck.

Since then, I’ve avoided trying new gadgets, partly out of fear of damaging my hair and partly because, as a mum with a busy job as a writer, I simply don’t have the time.

Instead, I’ve resigned myself to wearing my hair long and curly.

I tend to half diffuse it and half air-dry it, depending on the time I have.

Over the years, hair dye to stem the ever-increasing tide of grey has conspired with my changing hormones to alter my curl pattern from tight curls to looser ones.

But the frizz has remained.

Bushy mess

Mousses and gels keep my hair defined for a day or so, but the curls quickly drop out and become lank and fluffy.

On a good day, it falls into ringlets; on a bad one, it’s a bushy mess.

Curly hair has a mind of its own, you see.

So, I was keen to test the brand new Dyson Airwrap Co-anda 2x.

The latest version of this heated styler, the Curly and Coily model (there’s also a Straight/Wavy one), promises effortless, long-lasting, sleek waves.

Like all Dyson products, it looks and feels a quality, luxury item.

But, at £579, I’ll admit, I am expecting some sort of miracle.

Could it work for me, or is it just a lot of hot air?

According to Dyson, the Co-anda 2x has twice as many attachments as its predecessor and can be used to dry, curl, wave, straighten, smooth and volumise your hair.

7

These attachments, they say, are “intelligent” — I wonder if they can help with Wordle.

The Airwrap claims to provide “supercharged styling with a stronger Coanda airflow”.

It is 30 per cent more powerful than the previous model, has two times the air pressure and — most intriguingly — senses movement, automatically wrapping your hair and adapting heat, airflow and timings to your hair type, via the MyDyson app.

Faced with a box of attachments, I have no idea where to start.

Setting up the app is simple, after answering some questions on it my device is tailored to my hair type.

However, as a novice, I find navigating the app confusing.

Its video guides — I counted 37 ways to style your curly hair — are helpful but I can’t figure out how to watch tutorials while holding my switched-on Airwrap.

It doesn’t help that the Bluetooth keeps disconnecting.

The power cord is also surprisingly short, meaning I have to sit right next to the plug socket.

On the plus side, the motor is extremely powerful.

I’m impressed with how the barrel curl attachment intuitively collects the right amount of hair — as if slurping noodles.

‘Friends say I look glam’

And I’m reassured that once the Airwrap reaches a certain heat, it starts to cool, so it dries my hair but doesn’t burn it.

I also like the fact there’s a diffuser attachment among the options, so I can choose whether I want to dry my hair curly, wavy or straight with just one device.

But I do find the Airwrap heavier than my usual hairdryer.

Holding it in one position for any length of time made my arm ache.

But it’s much easier than holding both a brush and a dryer.

The results speak for themselves. My hair feels so smooth and light that I can’t help swishing it around. The colour also looks more refined and glossy.

While people usually compliment my hair, now they’re commenting on my overall look.

7

Everyone says I look “glamorous” and “airbrushed” — not words they’ve used before. I can see I appear more tidy and professional, and less boho. However, I do think my usual curly style makes me look more youthful.

The night after my trial, I barely sleep for worrying I’ll ruin my new do.

But I wake to find it almost as smooth as before.

By the end of the day, my hair is starting to frizz at the edges and some rogue curls are appearing.

I decide to wash it again, and try the diffuser option, so I can compare it with my own high street dryer.

When I link the Airwrap up to the app, it automatically sets it to the right heat and speed settings for the diffuser attachment.

It dries quickly and efficiently, creating nice curls and achieving better root volume than my own model. It’s a good diffuser.

But I can’t say the result is £600 better.

The Airwrap Co-anda 2x is not for novices. If I’m honest, I would probably only use the diffuser option unless I have a special event, and a day off.

It is a big investment and not a must-have.

But as an alternative to professional blowouts, it’s a great option.

CUTTING THE HAIR COSTS

LILY ENGLAND DELUXE HOT BRUSH, £32.99

7

WHILE it can’t dry and style simultaneously like the Airwrap, it is perfect for giving your hair a quick zhuzh, and its simple design is easy to get the hang of.

The large barrel is ideal for adding volume and lifting hair.

BELLISSIMA ITALIA AIR WONDER 8-IN-1 HAIR STYLER, £129.99

7

WITH eight attachment heads, this budget styler curls, volumises and waves.

Hit its coolshot button after styling to lock in your look for longer.

Also doubles up as a traditional hairdryer.

REVLON ONE-STEP BLOW-DRY MULTI STYLER 3-IN-1 TOOL, £80

7

HAILED as the ultimate Dyson dupe, this takes hair from wet to perfectly styled.

Has a curling wand, an oval brush for volumised locks and a concentrator head for drying your roots.

SUMMER is fully upon us, bringing with it holidays abroad, trips to the beach, dips in the pool – and, of course, bare legs.

I’ve grappled with various razors, at-home waxing kits and painful trips to the salon for years, which only leave me dreading the next time my leg hair is ripped from the root, before it grows back and I have to endure it all over again.

Keskine IPL Hair Removal Handset, £299 £159.20 with code THESUN20

That was until I decided to take the plunge, listen to my mates, and join the at-home IPL brigade.

Instead of spending hundreds (thousands in the long run) on salon hair removal, I opted to try an at-home hair removal solution that would last — a Keskine IPL Hair Removal Handset.

IPL (Intense Pulsed Light) uses a combination of targeted light and heat that is absorbed by the melanin found in hair follicles, essentially disabling and damaging them, which, in turn, stops the hair from growing back.

The highly rated Keskine handset boasts an impressive 4.9-star rating from almost 4,000 reviews, and one of its most notable features is the built-in ice-cooling technology, setting it apart from competitors.

This promises to soothe the skin and alleviate the biggest complaint people have about hair removal: pain.

So, I put the Keskine IPL Hair Removal Handset to the test for six weeks to see what results I could achieve while the sun is still shining.

Pros

• Financially worth it in the long run 
• Portable
• Effective
• Works on a range of hair types and skin tones 
• Built-in cooling technology

Cons

• It can feel like a big cash injection
• Have to remain consistent with your sessions
• Slightly noisy (although worth it for the cooling option)

Rating: 8/10

How I tested the Keskine IPL Hair Removal Handset

Keskine IPL Hair Removal Handset, £299 £159.20 with code THESUN20

Keskine promises visible results within one to four weeks, with optimal results appearing between six and twelve weeks.

I decided to track the effects on my hair over six weeks, assessing every week..

As part of the Sun Shopping team, I’ve tested a range of beauty tech, including the best LED face masks, the best Dyson dupes, and more, so I’m well-versed in what makes a product worth your pennies, even if it’s at the higher end of the price spectrum.

I used the product the recommended number of times: up to three times a week for the first month and then twice a week for weeks four to six.

For some context, I have naturally fair and soft hair on my head, but my leg and armpit hair is thick and stubborn after years of shaving abuse, so my main goal was to see if the IPL would thin the hairs out before removing them completely.

Keskine IPL Hair Removal Handset review: The Nitty Gritty

First impressions

I won’t lie to you, I often find myself sceptical about any at-home treatment that imitates salon visits, such as laser hair removal or at-home LED facial treatments.

Keskine IPL Hair Removal Handset, £299 £159.20 with code THESUN20

However, always open to having my opinion changed, I unboxed the Keskine to discover a very easy-to-use handheld IPL, which came with a razor and a pair of protective sunglasses.

The device itself is extremely lightweight and compact, with a lovely white and rose gold colour scheme.

Its small size means you can take it on holiday with you, ensuring you never have to miss a session.

Setting it up proved to be an easy task. All you need to do is clean your chosen treatment area and shave off any hair using the razor provided, before patting the area completely dry.

Once you’ve connected the power cord to the adapter and plugged it into a power outlet, all you need to do is turn it on and choose one of the five built-in smart modes.

Don’t be alarmed by the loud whirring noise that comes from the device; that’s just an indication that the cooling capabilities are working.

You can select which part of your body you will be targeting with the IPL — face, armpit, body, bikini or beauty.

Keskine IPL Hair Removal Handset, £299 £159.20 with code THESUN20

Although it’ll make you look like a member of the Blues Brothers every time you use it, you will need to wear the protective sunglasses provided to shield your eyes from the effects of the light.

Does it deliver?

My hair has definitely become much finer and completely disappeared in places since I started using the Keskine.

When speaking to friends who go for professional laser removal treatments in a salon, our results were very similar at the four-week and six-week mark.

I saw most results at six weeks, but noticed that even at the four-week mark, after using the device appropriately and consistently, there were areas where the hair had disappeared, and surrounding areas were extremely wispy where it once was coarse.

I will say that this product is best suited if you already have body hair on the finer side and definitely on the darker side.

As per the Keskine colour chart, the tool is ineffective on darker skin tones and lighter hair types.

1

I found the best results were on intimate areas and my armpits, where I saw a massive improvement on darker, coarser hair.

The product is very simple to use, and the cooling sensation that Keskine offers is a standout feature, contributing to a pain-free experience.

The five adjustment levels are also a nice touch to reduce the pain in more sensitive areas.

How much is the Keskine IPL?

One thing that always used to put me off IPLs and at-home treatments was the hefty price tag that often accompanies them.

However, when you compare the cost of the Keskine – usually £299 but currently on sale for £199.99 (or just £159.20 with exclusive code THESUN20) — to just one session at a popular high street therapy clinic, it suddenly feels worthwhile, especially with very similar results on offer.

When compared to other IPLs, such as Braun or Philips, which offer the same level of settings and features, the Keskine IPL stands out financially, making it well worth the investment.

Where to buy the Keskine IPL?

The IPL can be purchased directly from the Keskine site, which often runs offers.

Additionally, Keskine have provided an exclusive 20% discount code for Sun readers, bringing the price down even further to £159.20; however, you may have to act fast as the code is only valid until July 31st at midnight!

There are also sign-up offers that allow 10% off across the site on your first order, as well as Clearpay being available as a payment plan, along with fast, free tracked shipping.

Keskine IPL alternatives

If you’re looking for the same level of quality as the Keskine IPL, with cooling technologies and adjustable power settings, here are some alternatives:

• Braun Silk Expert Pro 5 PL5124 Corded IPL Hair Removal, £425 £300 – buy here
• Ulike Air 3, £319.99 £279 – buy here
• FOREO Peach 2 Device, £369 – buy here

A WOMAN in her 50s has been flooded with praise online after showing off her massive “glow up” – and people are calling it “legendary.”

The brunette beauty named Kristina told how she achieved her flawless skin and youthful appearance without surgery or any invasive procedures.

2

2

So it’s little surprise people have been begging the brunette beauty to reveal her anti-ageing secrets.

Taking to TikTok (@kristina.maay), she penned: “When you’re a good-looking 50, but you were very ugly in your early 40s.”

In the clip, she shared a stunning video of herself revealing her flawless skin now – and there’s not a wrinkle in sight.

She then posted a series of photos from in her 40s to show just how much she believes she has changed.

In response to one person who commented that she must’ve had a change in money to achieve her new look, Kristina confirms: “No change in finances.

“I spent more before on my face tbh.”

Kristina also shared a second post shared to TikTok and went on to reveal some of the changes she made in just six years that she believes have helped to turn back the clock.

Firstly, she explains how she started using glycolic acid,
microcurrent, gua-sha and doing facial yoga.

Next, she made changes in her eating and started focusing on consuming a high protein diet.

Kristina also says she stopped eating gluten and started ditching alcohol and sugar.

As for exercise, she took up weight training and shed a whopping 5kgs.

“Weight loss is absolutely a massive glow up isn’t it?! Body composition changes are an even bigger glow up,” she wrote, in response to one social media user.

She notes that ditching the “ugly fake lashes” also helped to make a huge difference and says she also let her feather touch brows fade.

Along with having 2 pre-cancerous moles removes, Kristina also started her supplement regime.

It wasn’t long before the post went viral, racking up a whopping 408k views and several comments from very impressed social media users.

“Wow we who, what, where, when and HOW!!!” wrote one.

A second commented: “We are sat for lessons!”

A third wrote: “You are beautiful no matter what. Looking more sophisticated now and natural so well done.”

Meanwhile, a fourth added: “You were beautiful before, but the glow up is legendary!!!!”

Another praised: “You look so good now.”

A further noted: “You’re 50!?! You look amazing.”

And another pleaded: “So what’s the secret?”

IF you use a hair dryer, or heated styling tools, you should also be using heat protectant to keep your hair healthy.

Without it, strands will become dry, brittle and harder to manage.

4

Try these three . . . 

BUDGET

E45 Protection Lip Balm SPF30, £7.99 for 10ml, boots.com

4

Arkive The Prologue hair primer, £14 for 200ml, boots.com

You really can’t go wrong with this product.

Not only does it protect hair from heat, it also de-tangles, adds shine, reduces frizz and smells delicious, thanks to the rhubarb, tomato leaf, honeysuckle and vetiver.

So it doubles up as a hair perfume.

It makes my hair feel like silk, and I really notice on the days I don’t use it, which is always the sign of a brilliant product.

It’s also nearly impossible to apply too much, as it doesn’t weigh hair down or leave it looking greasy.

MID-RANGE

Ghd Bodyguard heat protect spray, £23.95 for 120ml, boots.com

4

Ghd Bodyguard heat protect spray, £23.95 for 120ml, boots.com

As the original heat-straightener brand, it will come as no surprise that ghd knows how to protect hair from styling.

This spray isn’t at all sticky and does not leave a residue behind, despite conditioning ingredients such as castor oil and glycerin.

It also helps maintain my style for longer, so curls don’t drop out by the end of the day, which is usually the case.

Plus, it smells like a fancy hair salon, so every time I use it I feel like I have had a professional treatment.

LUXURY

Dyson Omega leave-in conditioning spray, £59.99 for 165ml, dyson.co.uk

4

Dyson Omega leave-in conditioning spray, £59.99 for 165ml, dyson.co.uk

This is the newest heat protectant in my arsenal, and its almost milky formula is thicker than the others.

That is great for dull, brittle lengths or hair that gets dry between washes, as it immediately softens strands.

I have very fine hair, and if I apply too much to my roots it can make them feel dirty, so that’s something to be aware of.

But as long as I keep the spray away from my scalp, it’s not an issue.

This one feels super luxe, and is refillable, so better for the planet too.

PICK OF THE WEEK

THIS week, I had a Charlotte Tilbury makeover and afterwards, couldn’t stop looking at my skin in the mirror.

The redness across my cheeks and around my nose had disappeared, my pores were blurred and, best of all, I was glowy without looking greasy.

It was all down to the new Charlotte Tilbury airbrush flawless foundation, £39, which promises 24-hour wear.

For details, see charlottetilbury.co.uk.

ADVENT calendar season is approaching faster than you think.

The best options sell out at lightning speed every year, and Fortnum & Mason has released its luxurious Advent calendar worth a staggering £1,149.

Fortnum’s Beauty Advent Calendar, £265 (worth £1,149)

The beauty Advent calendar costs £265, and is filled with premium brands including Jo Malone, Clive Christian and Sol de Janeiro.

No one does luxury quite like Fortnum & Mason, and the iconic Advent calendar comes with 26 beauty treats – 23 of which are full-size.

Shoppers will find a variety of high-end products behind the doors, including fragrances, candles and make-up.

There’s plenty inside for skincare fans too, like the Wildsmith Active Super Eye Serum that’s worth £100 alone.

Beauty fans will also be treated to four fragrances, including a 30ml Gallivant London perfume worth £70.

2

Three 10ml perfumes are inside, Fortnum’s 1707 Lilas Eau de Parfum, which costs £235 for a 50ml, a Topaze Eau de Parfum with a Gold Atomiser, and a Clive Christian Town & Country Perfume that would be £400 for a 50ml bottle.

Sol de Janeiro’s viral Bum Bum Body Cream is included for those looking to add a touch of luxury to their body care routine, along with a 100ml version of Aromatherapy Associates’ Revive Body Oil (worth £60).

There’s also a selection of stunning keepsakes including two Ortigia soaps in tins – which could even be passed on as Christmas gifts.

The 26 products are all stored inside the luxe-looking packaging, which opens up to reveal the pull-out draws with gold numbers.

Fortnum & Mason’s Advent calendar is one of the more expensive on the market, but its sky-high value of £1,149 means shoppers are saving £849 compared to purchasing the items individually.

Beauty Advent calendars have started to launch in recent weeks, and we’re expecting plenty more drops within the next month.

Shoppers have already been taking to TikTok to give a first-look at the 2025 Advents.

The Sun Shopping team will also be putting some of the bestsellers to the test, and you can read our thoughts on last year’s versions, including our Charlotte Tilbury Advent calendar review.

2

Fortnum’s Beauty Advent Calendar, £265 (worth £1,149)

Beauty Advent calendars fly off the virtual shelves every year, so if you have your eye on one, it’s worth snapping it up as soon as possible before it sells out.

Fortnum & Mason’s 2025 Beauty Advent Calendar has sold out in previous years.

While it’s available to shop now, the website states that deliveries won’t be made until after 22 September.

The collection of premium products will make the ultimate gift for any beauty fan, or as a treat for yourself.

CHRISTMAS might still feel months away, but in the world of beauty lovers, the countdown starts now.

The first wave of 2025’s beauty advent calendars has landed, and they’re stuffed with luxe treats, jaw-dropping savings and golden ticket surprise savings.

11

11

TikTok beauty lover Alex, @hiyaimalex, has given fans a first peek at some of the biggest launches for 2025, and we’ve broken down the highlights so you can decide which one to stick on your wish list.

Selfridges

11

Whether you like it or not, Selfridges has officially kicked off Christmas in August.

The department store has revealed 23 of the 37 products inside its 2025 beauty advent calendar, with a huge 24 of them full-sized.

Priced at £250 but worth £1,136, it’s packed with high-end favourites.

The following have been confirmed so far.

• Charlotte Tilbury’s setting spray (30ml)
• Laneige’s full-sized berry lip mask
• Lisa Eldridge lip liner
• Augustinus Bader eye cream
• Jo Malone’s English Pear & Freesia scent (30ml)
• A Refy bronze brush
• Moon Glaze Stick
• UK Lash Serum
• Mini Tatcha Silk Cream
• The Ordinary’s niacinamide serum
• Rodial’s Vitamin C tonic
• Elemis resurfacing pads
• Gisou hair oil (20ml)
• Full-sized Color Wow Dream Coat
• Lashify lash set
• Charlotte Mensah salt scrub
• Scalp brush
• Murad hydration mask
• Maria Nila soothing serum
• Mini Ormonde Jayne and Fleur de Teck fragrances

Plus a Selfridges Beauty Concierge card has been added for an as-yet-unknown treat.

The mix of full sizes and fragrance has already got beauty fans buzzing.

You can join the waitlist here.

SPACE NK

11

Always one of the most lusted-after calendars, Space NK is back with a sleek new look for 2025.

At £260, it’s a serious investment but with a value of £1,150 and 25 products (many full-sized), it’s one of the most generous on the market.

The waitlist’s already open, so if you want in, you’ll need to move fast.

CULT BEAUTY

11

This year Cult Beauty is spoiling shoppers with not one but two advent calendars.

The classic curation has 35 items, while the limited edition has 40, with the latter sneaking in a few fragrance treats.

Priced at £240 with a value of around £1,100, they’re also hiding golden tickets worth £1,000 inside some lucky boxes.

Revealed so far is the Hourglass mascara, Gucci lip oil, Patrick Ta blush duo and Huda Beauty lip gloss.

The waitlist is now open.

SEPHORA

11

It seems Sephora is playing hard to get with their 2025 calendar, having not shared a price yet, but we do know it holds 41 products.

Alex reckons she’s spotted the Gisou lip oil, Laneige cream, Merit blush balm, Kayali fragrance, Rare Beauty, Glow Recipe skincare and an Amika dry shampoo.

Fans can expect more reveals soon, but even these early guesses are enough to get beauty fans buzzing.

The waitlist is now open.

ELLE BEAUTY

11

Affordable but still packed with high-end names, Elle Beauty’s calendar is going for £130 but worth around £700.

It’s got a jaw-dropping 10 full-sized products.

The full list of products included are as follows.

• Zelens Power B
• Murad Cellular Hydration Barrier Repair Cream
• Medik8 Advanced Day Total Protect SPF30
• Wild Nutrition Food Grown Complete Beauty Support
• Champo Pitta Brow Serum.
• AKT Body Conditioning Balm
• Rare Beauty Soft Pinch Liquid Blush in Happy
• Sync Beauty Lip Oil
• Goldwell Rich Repair Mask
• OPI Infinite Shine
• PERS Vitamin C Serum
• Votary Blemish Rescue Oil
• By Terry Brightening CC Serum
• Narciso Rodriguez All Of Me eau de parfum
• Rodial Snake Serum
• Aveda Botanical Repair Strengthening Leave-In Treatment
• Neal’s Yard Remedies Vegan Wild Rose Beauty Balm
• Aromatherapy Associates Deep Relax Bath and Shower Oil
• Tweezerman Micro Mini Tweezer
• Drunk Elephant A-Passioni Retinol Cream
• L’Occitane Almond Shower Oil
• Gallinee Youthful Serum
• Rituals Ayurveda Shower Foam
• Espa Bergamot Body Lotion
• Fenty Cherry Dub BHA Toner
• Nuxe Hair Prodigieux High Shine Shampoo
• Nuxe Hair Prodigieux High Shine Conditioner

With the waitlist now open.

HARRODS

11

The Harrods Beauty Advent Calendar is pure Christmas luxury, costing a hefty £250 for 32 products, 14 of them full-sized.

Fans can expect the crème de la crème of beauty brands, from La Mer and Tatcha to Sisley and Medik8.

The full list of products is below.

• Laura Mercier Black Caviar Extravagant Mascara 8.5g (Full Size)
• La Prairie Foam Cleanser 50ml (Travel Size)
• Medik8 Crystal Retinal 6 30ml (Full Size)
• Rodial Frosted Pink Blush Drops & Bronze Glowlighter 15ml (Full Size) and 2g (Deluxe Mini)
• Evidens De Beaute The Special Mask 30ml (Travel Size)
• Davines OI All In One Milk 50ml (Travel Size)
• Shiseido FSLX Total Regenerating Cream 15ml (Travel Size)
• Sisley Floral Toning Lotion 100ml (Travel Size)
• Beautifect Beauty Blender 1pc (Full Size)
• Hourglass Veil Translucent Setting Powder 2g (Travel Size)
• U beauty Resurfacing Compound 15ml (Travel Size)
• La Mer Crème de la Mer 15ml (Full Size)
• Bobbi Brown Taupe Long Wear Cream Eye Shadow Stick 1.6g (Full Size)
• 111SKIN Cyro Sheet Mask 1pc (Full Size)
• Christophe Robin Cleansing Purifying Scrub & Regenerating Mask 40ml & 75ml (Travel Size)
• Cle De Peau UV Protective Cream 8ml (Travel Size)
• Etat Libre D’Orange Uruk 10ml (Travel Size)
• Skin Cycles Lip Balm 0.5ml (Full Size)
• Lancaster Ligne Princière Cream & Ligne Princière Serum 15ml & 7.5ml (Travel Size & Deluxe Mini)
• Valmont Votre Visage L’Elixir Face Cream 15ml (Travel Size)
• Augustinus Bader The Face Oil 10ml (Travel Size)
• Moncho Moreno Bond J’ aime Bond 100ml (Travel Size)
• MZ SKIN Hydra-Bright Gold Eye Mask 1pc (Full Size)
• MZ SKIN Vitamin Infused Meso Eye Mask 1pc (Full Size)
• MZ SKIN Soothe & Smooth Hyaluronic Brightening Eye Complex 14ml (Full Size)
• Champo Pitta Lash Serum 4ml & Pitta Brow Serum 4ml (Full Size x 2)
• Tatcha Indigo Overnight Repair 15ml (Travel Size)
• Mac Ruby Woo Macximal Sleek Satin Lipstick 3.8g (Full Size)

Pre-order is open but customers are limited to buying a maximum of five boxes.

HARVEY NICHOLS

11

Another £250 option, Harvey Nichols’ calendar is worth over £1,000 and already available to rewards members.

Big names include NARS, La Mer, Charlotte Tilbury and Color Wow — and as a festive bonus, one in every 50 calendars contains a £50 Harvey Nicks gift voucher.

You can now join the waitlist.

LIBERTY

11

One of the priciest and poshest on the list, Liberty’s advent calendar costs £270 but packs in over £1,200 worth of beauty.

Inside are 30 products, 20 of them full-sized, from brands like Augustinus Bader, Sisley and Lisa Eldridge.

Plus, 15 golden tickets worth £1,000 are hidden among the calendars. The waitlist’s open now, and these will go fast.

ANTHROPOLOGIE

11

At £98, this is one of the most affordable luxury beauty calendars of the year, but it’s still worth £365 and includes 11 full-sized items.

With a golden ticket promotion offering extra prizes, it’s a fun, budget-friendly option for beauty lovers who don’t want to miss out on the seasonal sparkle.

Best value for money

If you’re chasing the biggest bang for your buck, Space NK comes out on top for sheer savings at £260 for a £1,150 haul is hard to beat.

Liberty offers the highest overall value at £1,200+, but it’s also the most expensive.

For budget-conscious shoppers, ELF’s £150 calendar crams in £1,100 worth of products, making it the best mid-price steal.

And if you’re after something affordable but still luxe, Anthropologie’s £98 calendar gives you over three times your money in products.

These aren’t the only calendars to hit the market this year so if you’re still after a more affordable option don’t worry.

Boots and a few other high street favourites are still keeping their Christmas cards close to their chest, but if last year’s sell-out calendars are anything to go by, their launches will cause a frenzy.

For now, though, the early releases are already making December mornings look a whole lot more glamorous.

Money-Saving Tips from Gemma Bird: Save £2k Before Christmas

IF youre’ looking to save cash, you’ve come to the right place, as here, Gemma Bird has shared her top tips that’ll save you £2k before Christmas.

• Set a budget: Track your spending and create a realistic budget.
• Cut unnecessary costs: Cancel unused subscriptions and avoid impulse buys.
• Meal planning: Plan meals to reduce grocery bills and avoid takeaways.
• Sell unwanted items: Declutter and sell items online for extra cash.
• Cashback and discounts: Use cashback sites and hunt for discount codes.
• DIY gifts: Make personalised gifts to save money and add a personal touch.
• Pick up a seasonal shift: A really easy way to pick up a bit of extra cash in the winter is to find yourself some seasonal work.

Follow these practical tips from Gemma Bird to boost your savings before the festive season!

RESTORE your nail health with Boots’ five star buy that will leave them feeling stronger and longer in just one application.

Beauty fans have been racing to Boots to get their hands on this nourishing nail and cuticle care pen.

2

The Boots product that will heal your nails

If you are looking to restore your nail health this summer, Boots may have the perfect solution.

The No 7 star product has become the latest craze amongst beauty enthusiasts.

The Nourishing Nail and Cuticle Care Pen has been billed as the ultimate solution to flaky, weak nails, and it won’t break the bank either.

Retailing for just £6.95 the treatment provides continuous moisture which nourishes the skin and promotes nail growth.

The product description recommends users massage the product into nails and cuticles once a day to see the best results.

This nail saviour has gone a storm with Boots shoppers, with the product receiving 100 five star reviews.

Glowing reveals for star nail product

One glowing review reads: “Absolutely the best cuticle cream I have used – very easy to use and super results.

“Having used more expensive brands I now realise that No 7 is the one I will always use in the future.”

Another delighted shopper added: “One one application and I have noticed a difference.

“My nails were flaky and split all the time. They are now actually growing without breaking.”

One happy customer also praised its affordable price point, writing: “Very cheap bur very good product!!!”

The hypo-allergenic product comes in a 10ml container.

How to keep your nails in pristine condition

Nail techs often recommend that avid acrylic and gel users take breaks in between every few sets, to give them a bit of a break.

If you’re looking to start the natural journey or are looking to just enhance nail condition, nail strengtheners and cuticle oils are a great place to start.

Other nail strengtheners and oil that The Sun recommends include OPI’s Nail Envy, Sally Hansen’s Miracle Cure, and Jessica’s Bend Don’t Break.

If you are in the market for another more affordable option, Barry M’s Mani Hero is less than £5 and promises to be a great quality, budget-friendly alternative.

Earlier this month, nail pro Sarah Green, also told The Sun the four things people should avoid doing to keep them in good condition.

Among her pro tips were avoiding using hot water, using UV protection and applying cuticle oil.

Following this advice may help ensure your at-home manicure stays in pristine condition and chip-free for much longer.

2

A HAIR removal specialist has warned travelers not to get a wax immediately before boarding a flight, as it could lead to painful skin problems that might spoil the start of a holiday.

Timca Pruijt, hair removal expert from Laser Hair Removalo, says the conditions inside aircraft cabins can worsen post-wax skin irritation, causing redness, increased sensitivity and potential infection risks.

1

She noted that many people book last-minute beauty treatments just before flying abroad, without considering how the aircraft environment might affect freshly waxed skin.

Cabin air is extra dry

“To avoid condensation, cabin humidity is reduced dramatically to anywhere between 10% and 20%, according to the Federal Aviation Administration’s latest Aviation Weather Handbook.

“This is much lower than what your skin is used to, which is ideally between 30% and 50%, based on guidance from the US Environmental Protection Agency,” Pruijt explains.

“We can easily feel our lips chapping, our nose drying and our eyes getting itchy, but we rarely remember our skin is suffering too.”

She explains that newly waxed skin will have its protective hair layer removed, and tiny pores are left open and exposed.

“After waxing, your skin needs time to recover and close those open pores. The ultra-dry cabin air draws moisture from your skin at the worst possible time – right when it needs hydration to heal properly,” she adds.

“People often forget that waxing is not just hair removal; it is quite traumatic for the skin. You are pulling hair from the root and removing a thin layer of skin cells in the process,” she says. 

Pruijt also points out that the stress of travelling, along with changes in temperature between air-conditioned airports, hot tarmacs and cool cabins, puts additional strain on your skin’s ability to recover.

Your Skin Needs At Least 48 Hours to Heal

According to Pruijt, sitting in a confined space for hours with compromised skin creates ideal conditions for bacteria to multiply, potentially leading to spots, rashes, or even infections.

For holidaymakers who still want to be hair-free on arrival, she recommends planning beauty treatments carefully.

“Preparation is the only way you can avoid complications from waxing. This means booking your appointments well ahead and applying moisturizers before leaving the house for the airport.”

“Get your waxing done at least 48 hours before your flight. This gives your skin adequate time to recover and those open pores to close,” she advises.

She also suggests applying a gentle, fragrance-free moisturizer before the flight to create a protective barrier.

Airports can be bacteria breeding ground for freshly waxed skin

“Our hands contact multiple surfaces in airports, planes, taxis, buses, and cafes. We then inevitably touch our skin with those hands, breeding with bacteria.

“You can use hand sanitizer generously and often, but bacteria are on surfaces you might sit on or accidentally touch.

“While you cannot exactly cover a waxed upper lip or brow, you could swap shorts for loose trousers and tank tops for airy, long-sleeved shirts to give your fragile skin an extra layer of protection from unsanitary surfaces and your own contaminated hands.”

The expert noted that wearing loose, comfortable clothing on the flight is essential if you have recently had a wax, particularly for sensitive areas.

“Tight clothing creates friction and traps heat and moisture, which can lead to irritation or folliculitis, when your hair follicles become inflamed,” she explains. “Opt for cotton for avoid sweating and maximize your skin’s ability to breathe.”

Last-minute waxing can cause rashes

If you are used to waxing as your preferred hair removal method, you may be reluctant to consider alternatives or combinations thereof.

“Many travelers now opt for a waxing appointment a few days before their flight and pack a small razor for touch-ups if needed during their holiday,” she says.

“If you travel often or want longer-lasting results, treatments like laser hair removal might be worth considering. Unlike waxing, once a course of laser treatments is complete, there is no need to worry about last-minute hair removal before flights.

“Ultimately, if it is too late to plan more permanent hair removal options, your best bet is packing a good old set of fresh razors and, importantly, a new loofah or gentle brush to exfoliate your sensitive, sun-bathed skin before shaving,” Pruijt notes.

“You are better off putting in the extra effort of shaving daily than walking around with a waxed, sore rash you cannot control your entire vacation.”

Sun exposure can damage sensitive skin

Pruijt also advises taking extra care with sun exposure after both waxing and flying.

“Newly waxed or dehydrated skin makes you more susceptible to sun damage.

“You should avoid applying sunscreen on freshly irritated skin, which is why, if you do need to step out the following 24 hours, cover your skin with clothing rather than sunscreen, depending on the area. Wear trousers, long-sleeved tops, a wide-brimmed hat and trainers.

“Make sure you are extra vigilant with sunscreen once you reach your destination,” she warns.”

SUMMER might be great for your tan but your hair – not so much.

As the heatwave rolls on, hair experts are warning that rising temperatures, sun exposure and sticky humidity could be silently wrecking your locks.

6

6

According to Sam Cinkir, CEO of top UK skin and hair clinic Este Medical Group, the summer months bring a cocktail of factors that can secretly sabotage your strands and lead to frizz, breakage and even bald spots.

Sam warns: “Warmer temperatures, increased exposure to the sun and higher levels of humidity can all combine to cause problems for our hair in summer.”

While we slather on SPF to protect our skin, our hair often gets forgotten and that’s when trouble starts.

The heat can dry out your strands, zap moisture from your scalp, and weaken hair follicles, making hair more prone to thinning and damage.

Humidity adds insult to injury, lifting the cuticle layer of the hair and letting in moisture, which causes swelling, frizz, and that all-too-familiar ‘triangle head’ situation.

“You might find your locks more susceptible to issues such as breakage, split ends, frizziness or even hair loss,” Sam told The Sun.

But it turns out, the real hair hero isn’t sitting on a salon shelf, it could already be in your kitchen.

Sam explains that a few simple dietary tweaks can play a big role in restoring shine, strength and scalp health during the hotter months.

He recommends focusing on foods rich in protein, omega-3 fatty acids, and key nutrients like vitamins A, C and E, along with iron and zinc.

These are all crucial for keeping the hair follicle strong, encouraging healthy growth, and locking in moisture.

And don’t forget hydration. A dry scalp is an unhappy scalp and not drinking enough water can leave both your hair and skin looking parched.

So what should you be eating?

Oily fish

6

Sam highlights oily fish, like mackerel, herring and tuna, as one of the top summer saviours.

These fish are packed with omega-3s, which help nourish the scalp and improve blood flow to hair follicles, key for reducing inflammation and preventing shedding.

Leafy greens

6

Leafy greens are another smart swap.

Spinach, kale and bok choy are rich in iron and vitamin C.

Vitamin C helps your body produce collagen, a protein that keeps your hair strong and structured.

Eggs

6

Sam also notes that eggs are a brilliant source of keratin.

Keratin is the main protein your hair is made of and plays a big part in preventing thinning.

So it’s important to add this breakfast staple into your diet if you want to combat thinning hair.

Greek yogurt

6

For a tasty way to end the day, try a bowl of Greek yogurt.

Not only is it high in protein, but it also contains vitamin B5, which supports healthy hair texture and cell renewal. It even helps with dandruff by keeping the scalp nourished.

With tubs going for around £3.50 in most supermarkets, it’s a small price to pay for big results and certainly cheaper than an emergency trip to the salon.

You can also add nuts and seeds for added benefits.

Nuts and seeds, such as almonds, pumpkin seeds and flaxseeds, are packed with biotin and healthy fats that boost keratin production and encourage growth.

So, if your hair’s looking limp, frizzy or falling out more than usual, it might not be your shampoo to blame.

The answer could be on your plate and a few simple swaps could be all it takes to save your summer strands.

ON the hunt for the best waterproof mascara? We’ve made it easy for you, with our tried and tested top picks for every budget.

Whether you’ve got sensitive eyes that are prone to getting watery, are dealing with humidity and rain, or simply want gorgeous fluttery lashes that are smudge-proof – having a tube of waterproof mascara in your makeup bag is a must.

With so many formulas out there to choose from though, it can be hard to find the best option but fear not: below are 13 of the best contenders for 2024, meticulously tried and tested to deliver flake-resistant perfection.

These waterproof heroes boast buildable formulas, delivering both length and volume to your lashes without compromising on durability.

Each one has been put through its paces, so read on for my honest thoughts on each product – and get ready to say ‘goodbye’ to panda eyes and ‘hello’ to perfect lashes that withstand rain, sweat, and tears…

14

Best waterproof mascaras at a glance:

Mac Mascara in Extreme Dimension Waterproof

14

Mac Mascara in Extreme Dimension Waterproof, £25

Pros: Seriously thick, great brush

Cons: Quite expensive

Rating: 5/5

Mac says that this is a lightweight, whipped mascara and I can see why.

Honestly, this is hands down one of my favourite mascaras as the wand seamlessly pulls out of the tube, with just enough mascara liquid on the brush.

Applying this mascara is like a dream; I didn’t need many coats for a voluminous, dark look, and despite a few clumps lingering on the brush, my lashes were clump-free.

I loved the look of my lashes after applying this Mac mascara, and it lasted throughout a gym workout, a shower, and the rest of my day.

Plus, when I applied this mascara, the entire lash was coated from root to tip and there was zero smudging. 

Hands down, this mascara is worth every penny and I am already recommending it to all my friends and family.

Shade: 3D Black, Size: 12g, Vegan: No

Lancôme Hypnôse Drama Waterproof Mascara

14

Lancôme Hypnôse Drama Waterproof Mascara, £29 £23.20

Pros: Sleek bottle, curved brush grabs all lashes

Cons: Expensive

Rating: 5/5

Lancome is a dream brand; its products do what they claim, and they do it well.

This mascara is essentially the waterproof version of the cult Hypnôse Drama Mascara, and it’s just as good.

I love Lancome packaging; it’s sleek and chic and always looks expensive. For just under £30, though (when not on sale) you’d hope this mascara looks expensive — it costs the equivalent of my weekly food shop. 

The curved brush of this mascara latched onto every one of my lashes and gave my eyes a really nice wide-open look. This is ideal on those mornings when a lack of sleep leaves your eyes looking half-closed.

Lancome says that the waterproof formula of this mascara has up to 24-hour hold, and I can certainly vouch for the claim that it stays put. I had dark eyes and long lashes all day long! Even my tiny lashes were caught by this brush.

Taking this mascara off was also simple and I wasn’t left with awful panda eyes or clumps of mascara that wouldn’t budge.

Shade: Excessive Black, Size: 6ml, Vegan: No

READ MORE:

Mavala Volume and Length Waterproof Mascara

14

Mavala Volume and Length Waterproof Mascara, £19.40 £17.46

Pros: Great price, contains healthy ingredients

Cons: A bit clumpy

Rating: 5/5

The Mavala mascara comes in a bottle that looks nothing like the others we tested. It’s white for starters and it looks almost slightly medical, as though it’s filled with health perks.

That sounds odd for a mascara, but when I researched the ingredients, it turns out there are actually several lash-boosting benefits. 

It’s protein enriched, offering your lashes extra nourishment, while its antioxidant ingredients hydrate too. Meanwhile, Bisabolol is soothing, meaning less irritation. This makes it great for sensitive eyes. 

I like the brush as it’s thick and contains zero clumps, plus it just glides out of the tube really nicely. Applying this mascara was a dream as it slid onto my lashes without any bumps and it latched onto every lash offering a nice intense dark colour.

You can pick up this mascara in several different shades too, so if you don’t fancy black, like me, you could opt for a blue or even a plum shade.

Shade: Black, Size: 10ml, Vegan: No

Benefit Badgal Bang Waterproof Mascara

14

Benefit Badgal Bang Waterproof Mascara, £27

Pros: Catches every lash, don’t need many coats to achieve an intense black

Cons: A thicker brush would be nice

Rating: 4.5/5

I wore this to the gym and for the rest of my day and it didn’t smudge or budge, so I know this is a reliable mascara.

The bottle is beautifully designed and Benefit tends to be one of those brands that looks good on your bathroom shelf or in your makeup bag. 

I will say that I prefer a thicker brush, and when I pulled this brush out of the tube, I didn’t feel like it would do a great job. But having said that, I managed to achieve a pretty dark intense lash look with just a couple of coats and the brush definitely caught every lash, from root to tip, as the product claims.

It caught even the small lashes on the bottom, which I often find end up carrying big mascara clumps. 

This mascara also contains provitamin B5 which apparently is known to fuel thickness, so that’s a bonus.

Shade: Black, Size: 8.5g, Vegan: No

Clinique High Impact Waterproof Mascara

14

Clinique High Impact Waterproof Mascara, £25

Pros: No clumps, smooth application, brush seamlessly pulls out of tube

Cons: None

Rating: 4.5/5

When a mascara starts to veer above the £15 mark, I do expect good things.

Clinique hasn’t disappointed with this mascara; the brush pulls effortlessly out of the tube which is incredibly satisfying and it feels like a nice, expensive product. 

I didn’t need many coats to get a bold colour, and the brush caught every lash easily, with no clumps. Plus, it stuck all day through a workout and a full out-and-about in the city. There was also no smudging around the eyes.

Clinique also says this is ideal for sensitive eyes and contact lens wearers too, so you can rest safe in the knowledge that your eyes won’t suffer.

Another point I will make about Clinique is that its products always feel ‘clean’, from the nice, natural green packaging (including this mascara tube) to the feel of the product itself, which always does what it says without feeling heavy or chemical-heavy.

Shade: Black or black brown, Size: 8ml, Vegan: No

Maybelline Lash Sensational Sky High Waterproof Mascara

14

Maybelline Lash Sensational Sky High Waterproof Mascara, £12.99 £9.49

Pros: Love the bottle, cheaper than some alternatives, stayed in place all day

Cons: Ever so slightly clumpy

Rating: 4/5

As Maybelline would say: “Maybe she’s born with it; maybe it’s Maybelline.’

Well, I wasn’t born with incredibly long lashes, but this Maybelline mascara certainly gave me the volume and length I was after.

This lasted through a sweaty run and through the rest of my day, but came off easily when I finally went to bed in the evening. During the day, though, it didn’t budge an inch.

The price is mid-range, which makes it more affordable than many others, and Maybelline is one of those brands you can just rely on. It’s a household name, after all. 

I liked how the brush smoothly pulled out of the bottle, and the brush definitely latched on to all my lashes really well. Plus, the mascara formula has apparently been ‘infused with bamboo extract and fibres for long, full lashes that never get weighed down’.

This mascara was ever so slightly clumpy on the smaller lashes, but it wasn’t too much of a problem. 

I’ll definitely be keeping this in my handbag going forward.

Shade: Black, Size: 9.6ml, Vegan: No

Boots No7 Intense Volume Waterproof Mascara

14

No7 Intense Volume Waterproof Mascara, £9.56

Pros: Thick brush, leaves zero clumps, good price point

Cons: Several layers needed to achieve an intense colour

Rating: 4/5

Another brand that can pretty much always be relied on is Boots’ No7.

This waterproof mascara is most certainly waterproof, and only smudged slightly when I rubbed my wet eyes after coming out of the shower; pretty impressive considering how soaked my face was.

I like the brush and how smooth it comes out of the tube, and I like how nice it feels to apply to lashes. I picked up even the smallest of lashes with this mascara wand, though I did need several coats to really get the dark black colour that I love.

I wore this on a Saturday morning following a measly five hours of sleep and it definitely helped me to look more awake. Sometimes, you just need to fake it till you make it!

Shade: , Size: 7ml, Vegan: Black

Freezeframe Instant Lash Xtreme

14

Instant Lash Xtreme, £38

Pros: Comes off easily, clings to every lash, sob-proof (I wore it to a wedding)

Cons: Very expensive, not as bold as I’d like

Rating: 4/5

I was hoping for the crème de la crème of mascaras with this one, considering its eye-wateringly high price. 

It didn’t disappoint.

The aim of this mascara is to give the look of professional lash extensions. I’m not sure if it did that, but it certainly brushed on incredibly smoothly, opened up my eyes and stayed put during a very teary wedding ceremony.

I loved the brush too, which caught every lash and made me look awake and alert (despite a groggy wine head…).

Despite this mascara being budge-proof when I cried and sweated, it was easy to remove at the end of the day, which is always a good thing as I find that overly rubbing my eyes to remove makeup ruins the thin skin that sits around my peepers.

Shade: Black, Size: 8ml, Vegan: Yes

Catrice Pure Volume Mascara Waterproof

14

Catrice Pure Volume Mascara Waterproof, £3.95

Pros: Feels expensive, thick brush

Cons: A little clumpy

Rating: 4/5

The first thing I noticed about this bargain mascara was how totally non-bargain it felt. The tube feels quality and I love the gold lid. 

Luckily, the mascara itself is of a decent quality. I actually got caught in a classic British downpour whilst wearing this, with zero brolly or hood. My face was dripping, yet my cheap-as-chips mascara stayed put. So it’s certainly waterproof. 

As for the mascara itself, it applies beautifully, and every lash was caught by the brush.

I did apply a few layers for the darkness I desire, but this is my personal preference. As I am dark-haired, I like my lashes to be extra dark! 

This mascara is also enriched with ricinus oil and almond oil to help nourish lashes and promote hair growth, so I was pretty happy knowing that I was showing my lashes plenty of love.

Shade: Black, Size: 10ml, Vegan: Yes

Collection Lash Surge Waterproof Mascara

14

Collection Lash Surge Mascara, £5.99

Pros: Smells delicious, dark intense colour

Cons: Brush gets a little clumpy, smudges

Rating: 3.5/5

The dual wand applicator that comes with this mascara means that an even amount of product is layered on the lashes, so there are fewer clumps and less smudging under the eyes, which is ideal for people like me who are always applying their makeup in a rush.

However, over the course of a morning, I did notice some smudging from this mascara which was annoying as I didn’t realise until I looked in a mirror and had to do a cheeky little undereye sweep with my finger.

Generally though, a good amount of mascara came out when I applied this and I did only need a couple of coats for a really intense set of lashes.

Several of the more expensive mascaras didn’t have this level of intensity, so that’s a big positive for this bargain five quid product.

Shade: Black, Size: 8ml, Vegan: No

Catrice Glam & Doll False Lashes Waterproof Mascara

14

Catrice Glam & Doll False Lashes Waterproof Mascara, £3.50 £3.30

Pros: Lovely design, smooth application

Cons: Brush feels quite thin, took a few coats to see visible difference

Rating: 3.5/5

This is another bargain mascara which is ideal for carrying around in your handbag. It costs less than a fiver, so I didn’t feel too precious about it and if I had lost it, I wouldn’t have had a meltdown. 

The brush is curved slightly which contributes to the ‘Glam and Doll False Lash effect’ as it latches to every lash for a really wide-eye appearance. But, I needed several coats to see a big difference and the brush did feel quite thin. 

I did like the fact that the mascara lived up to its waterproof claim as it didn’t budge at all throughout the day and I didn’t need to reapply either.

Again, this mascara just goes to show that the cheaper options can deliver really good results.

Shade: Black, Size: 10ml, Vegan: No

Essence I Love Extreme Crazy Volume Waterproof Mascara

14

Essence I Love Extreme Crazy Volume Waterproof Mascara, £2.33 (campaign price)

Pros: Smells lovely, thick and bold, great brush, latched onto every lash, super cheap

Cons: Smudged a little, hard to get off completely

Rating: 3.5/5

A £2.33 mascara that’s actually decent is hard to come by. Until now.

For anyone wanting a cheaper option that works, then this fits the bill. The brush is super thick and although I did need to apply several coats, the brush did grab every lash, giving an even coating of mascara. 

Plus, as the name suggests, this mascara does offer mega volume; my eyes were dark! A gym workout, Pilates, meeting and a dinner date were no bother for this mascara as it stayed put throughout.

It was a little tricky to take off, but for £2.33, I really cannot fault this.

Shade: Black, Size: 12ml, Vegan: No

Essence Lash Princess False Lash Waterproof Mascara

14

Essence Lash Princess False Lash Waterproof Mascara, £3.29

Pros: No clumps, total bargain, very sweatproof

Cons: Requires reapplication

Rating: 3/5

Essence is a brand that’s been around for a while, and it’s notorious for its low price-point products.

But low price doesn’t mean bad quality, as this mascara proves.

It stood the test of time when I wore it in the gym during a brutally sweaty boxing session on a Friday morning. There was minimal smudging around the eyes, and when I rubbed my eyes with a towel, I didn’t end up looking like a panda. 

Much like the other cheaper mascaras, you do need a fair few coats to really see the benefit of high-impact lashes, but there was actually minimal clumping on the lashes when I applied this mascara and the colour itself is dark. 

I did reapply a couple of times during the day but this was more so that my lashes were lengthened as opposed to wanting a darker eye. 

Big fan of this one; it’s made it into the gym bag makeup case already.

Shade: Black, Size: 12ml, Vegan: No (but is cruelty-free)

Where can I buy waterproof mascara in the UK?

Finding the perfect waterproof mascara can be a daunting task. However, with numerous options available both in-store and online, you’re definitely spoilt for choice.

Not only does investing in a waterproof mascara promise smudge-free, flake-resistant lashes, but it also provides peace of mind in the face of our unpredictable British weather.

Whether you prefer the convenience of online shopping or the experience of browsing in-store, waterproof mascaras are readily available – so you can effortlessly elevate your lash game.

To help you get started, we’ve listed some of our favourite retailers below:

How much does waterproof mascara cost?

Curious about the cost of achieving smudge-free, waterproof lashes? As with most beauty products, prices can vary depending on factors like brand, formulation and retailer.

From budget-friendly options to high-end splurges, you’ll definitely find something that suits your budget.

To give you an idea of what to expect; in our roundup, the most expensive waterproof mascara was Freezeframe’s Instant Lash Xtreme at £38, which certainly didn’t disappoint.

Meanwhile, the cheapest was Essence I Love Extreme Crazy Volume Waterproof Mascara which at a campaign price of just £2.33 definitely fits the bill if you’re on a tight budget.

Can I wear waterproof mascara while swimming?

Yes! Waterproof mascara is designed to withstand moisture and is often marketed as suitable for activities like swimming.

Its formulation creates a barrier against water, helping to prevent smudging and flaking, even when exposed to splashes or full immersion.

However, while it provides enhanced durability compared to regular mascara, its effectiveness may vary depending on the product, application and how long you’re in the water.

Some people find waterproof mascara ideal for swimming, while others prefer additional eye protection like goggles. See how you get on and what you prefer: personally, we love it if we’re headed to the beach and know there’ll be some splashes!

How to remove waterproof mascara

International makeup artist and content creator Sophia Brad says that a cleansing balm or oil-based cleanser is the best way to remove waterproof mascara.

“Gently massage your closed eyes, feeling how the mascara is dissolving and then rinse it off with warm water or a wipe with a damp cloth,” she says.

“I often double cleanse either with a gel or mousse cleanser or micellar water. Keep in mind that any waterproof product takes a bit longer to remove, so be patient. Needless to say as you’re dealing with your eye area it’s important to be gentle.”

What to look for in a waterproof mascara

“One thing to look for is the word ‘waterproof’ rather than ‘water-resistant’, explains Sophia.

“Just like any other mascara it’s down to the effect you want it to have on your lashes, may it be volume, length, curl, etc.

“Waterproof mascaras tend to feel less wet at application as they contain waxes and some of them contain traces of alcohol, and therefore will dry quicker which also means that after using it for a couple of months some of them can start to crumble a few hours into wearing them. So if you’re a contact lens wearer this might cause you some mild irritation.

“This will be your sign to replace your waterproof mascara – probably sooner than your regular mascara.”

How to stop waterproof mascara from smudging

There is in fact a nifty card trick you can try to neaten up your mascara application.

“Position a business card or bank card on your moving eyelid, apply your mascara and any smudges will end up on the card rather than your eyelid,” says Sophia.

“The rule with any fresh mascara smudges is to let them dry and then remove them with a cotton bud.”

SKINCARE fans have been racing to pick up Boots’ new beauty box that has been branded as “incredible value”.

The £30 set includes £113 worth of products, with skincare favourites from Byoma, Beauty of Joseon and The Inkey List.

Boots Fresh Faced Skincare Set, £29.99 (worth £112.99)

Beauty boxes are a great way to try out new products or stock up on favourites, and the Boots Fresh Faced Skincare Set has everything needed for a routine refresh.

Six out of the nine products inside are full-size, including Lumene’s Glow Boost Essence, which is worth £34 (more than the entire beauty box) when purchased separately.

Beauty of Joseon is the Korean beauty brand that’s been all over social media lately, and shoppers will receive its popular Matte Sun Stick.

There are three cleansers inside the new beauty box, including The Inkey List’s popular Oat Cleanser and Cetaphil’s Gentle Skin Cleanser.

E.l.f’s Holy Hydration Cleansing Balm is also inside (worth £11), and the cleanser has racked up thousands of five-star ratings on the Boots website.

1

The solid balm melts away make-up while hydrating the skin, with a formula made up of hyaluronic acid, ceramides and peptides.

Byoma’s Brightening Serum is another cult favourite including in the Boots beauty box, along with Pixi’s Vitamin C Serum (worth £26).

The products also come with a stylish checked print washbag that’s ideal for storing away beauty essentials.

The £30 set only has a few reviews currently, all of which are five-star.

One shopper wrote: “This set is excellent value for money if you want to try some new brands and level up your skincare routine, and the bag itself is very good quality, plus it would make an excellent gift.”

Another added: “The bag included is very good quality that will last years and I got lots of products for a great price.

I bought this for myself to try some new products but it would also make an excellent gift.”

Shoppers caused mass sell-outs on the Boots website earlier in the month after the retailer launched its Luxury Haircare Beauty Box.

Featuring £219 worth of products for £45, the haircare edit didn’t stay in stock for long.

Lookfantastic also released a new beauty box recently, and the Trending Beauty Box comes with nine viral favourites worth £110 for £40.

The Boots Fresh Faced Favourites Beauty Box is still in stock for now, but if it’s anything like the retailer’s other new releases, it’s going to sell fast.

I’M often asked for my top SPF picks now we’re heading into summer.

Here are three of my favourites that prove you can get a lightweight sun cream that isn’t greasy.

Budget

4

Bondi Sands Everyday Non Tinted Face Fluid SPF50+, £7.99 for 50ml, boots.com

Better known as a fake tan brand, it also has a cracking skincare range, with more than 20 sunscreens to choose from.

This is my top pick – not least because it’s great value for money.

It’s lightweight and sinks into skin quickly and leaves a semi-matte finish that’s not at all sticky.

It also layers well when it comes to reapplication and doesn’t pill.

There’s no added fragrance, but it has the classic sun cream scent so I tend to use it on holiday rather than every day.

Mid-range

4

Bioderma XDefense Ultra Fluid SPF50+ Invisible, £19, 40ml, lookfantastic.com

The formula is extremely thin, so it doesn’t feel cloying or oily on skin, and it absorbs in a matter of seconds so it’s great for wearing under make-up as you don’t have to wait for it to dry down.

I have super sensitive eyes which are easily irritated by sunscreen and this doesn’t cause me any problems even though it’s lightly fragranced.

It’s also non-comedogenic so won’t cause spots, which is a godsend as I just have to glance at the wrong product and I’ll break out.

It’s a great middle of the road SPF that’s suitable for all skin types.

Luxury

4

Trinny London See The Light SPF 50+ Moisturiser, £46 for 50ml, trinnylondon.com

Since this launched two summers ago, it has been my go-to everyday sunscreen.

It took three years to get the formula right, but it was worth the wait. It feels more like a moisturiser than an SPF.

The packaging looks more like premium skincare than sun protection, as well as PA++++ UVA protection ( the highest level of UVA protection in sunscreens) and SPF50 UVB.

You certainly get what you pay for with this one.

Pick of the week

4

INSTANT tan has had a serious glow up this year.

Utan Instant Tan, £17.99, comes in two versions – cool and warm – with a shade tailored to the hue of your skin for a natural sun-kissed look.

If you’re not sure of your undertones – look at your jewellery; silver tends to suit cool best, whereas gold flatters warm.

The air-brush mist dries in 30 seconds, and washes off with soapy-water.

Stock up at utan.co.uk.